bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiling of Protein Adducts of Estrogen Quinones in 5-Year Survivors of Breast Cancer Without Recurrence
Authors: Lin Che , Chen Ding-Ru , Kuo Shou-Jen , Feng Chi-Yen , Chen Dar-Ren , Hsieh Wei-Chung , Lin Po-Hsiung
Published: March 2022

Aims

The aim of this study was to simultaneously analyze estrogen quinone-derived adducts, including 17β-estradiol-2,3-quinone (E2-2,3-Q) and 17β-estradiol-3,4-quinone (E2-3,4-Q), in human albumin (Alb) and hemoglobin (Hb) derived from breast cancer patients with five-year postoperative treatment without recurrence in Taiwan and to evaluate the treatment-related effects on the production of these adducts.

Settings and Design

Cohort Methods and Material: Blood samples derived from breast cancer 5-year survivors without recurrence were collected. Albumin and hemoglobin adducts of E2-3,4-Q and E2-2,3-Q were analyzed to evaluate the degree of disposition of estrogen to quinones and to compare these adduct levels with those in patients before treatment.

Statistical Analysis

All data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation of three determinations. We used Student’s t-test to examine subgroups. Data were transformed to the natural logarithm and tested for normal distribution for parametric analyses. Linear correlations were investigated between individual adduct levels by simple regression. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS Statistics 20.0.

Results

Result confirmed that logged levels of E2-2,3-Q-derived adducts correlated significantly with those of E2-3,4-Q-derived adducts (correlation coefficient r=.336-.624). Mean levels of E2-2,3-Q-4-S-Alb and E2-3,4-Q-2-S-Alb in 5-year survivors were reduced by 60-70% when compared to those in the breast cancer patients with less than one year of diagnosis/preoperative treatment (P<.001).

Conclusions

Our findings add support to the theme that hormonal therapy including aromatase inhibitors and Tamoxifen may dramatically reduce burden of estrogen quinones. We hypothesize that combination of treatment-related effects and environmental factors may modulate estrogen homeostasis and diminish the production of estrogen quinones in breast cancer patients.
The Associations of Psychologic and Physiologic Manifestations of Parental Stress in Critical Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Lisanti Amy Jo , Demianczyk Abigail , Vogiatzi Maria G. , Quinn Ryan , Chittams Jesse , Hoffman Rebecca , Medoff-Cooper Barbara
Published: March 2022

Background: The primary objective of this exploratory, feasibility study was to examine the relationships of self-reported perceived stressors and psychological stress responses with measures of the biomarker cortisol in parents of infants hospitalized after neonatal cardiac surgery for critical congenital heart disease (cCHD). Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study of 28 biological mother–father dyads of neonates with cCHD using consecutive enrollment. In the postoperative period after neonatal cardiac surgery, parents provided awakening and diurnal saliva samples and self-report measures on stress, anxiety, depression, dyadic adjustment, and perceived severity of illness of their neonate. Results: Evaluable data, including salivary cortisol samples, were obtained for 27 of the 28 dyads enrolled in the study. Compared to fathers, mothers exhibited significantly higher mean cortisol values at wakeup ( p = .032), 30-minute post-wakeup ( p = .024), and bedtime ( p = .010) timepoints. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were both significant predictors of awakening cortisol measures. Depressive symptoms were also a predictor of diurnal cortisol ( p < .05). Stress arising from infant appearance and behavior was found to significantly predict cortisol awakening response ( p = .0403). Conclusions: Findings suggest that cortisol may be an important biomarker in the examination of parent stress in the pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU), serving as a foundation for future study in this area. Furthermore, we have provided preliminary evidence of feasibility of including saliva collection in studies of highly stressed parents in a challenging environment.
Tuberculous Peritonitis in a Peritoneal Dialysis Paediatric Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Aldriwesh Marwh , Albass Hessa , Alzaben Shog , Alangari Reem , Alajroush Lama , Almutairi Mohammed , Almokali Khamisa
Published: March 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is known to cause infection primarily in the lungs, which may spread to other parts of the body causing extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Few studies in the literature identify M. tuberculosis as a cause of peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis among paediatric patients who have no history of pulmonary tuberculosis. PD is the most used renal replacement therapy for paediatric patients with end-stage renal disease. However, despite continuous improvements in the PD connecting system, peritonitis remains the Achilles’ heel of dialysis procedures and prophylaxis for PD. Here, we report a case of M. tuberculosis peritonitis in a paediatric patient receiving PD and the infection was managed successfully with appropriate anti-tuberculous treatment. This case emphasises the importance of considering tuberculous peritonitis in PD paediatrics patients who have no history of pulmonary tuberculosis and whose PD routine cultures produce negative results.
Tourismification narratives and the ‘Transformative turn’ in tourism. An analysis derived from the Spanish press debate on the Barcelona tourism model
Authors: González-Reverté Francesc , Soliguer-Guix Anna
Published: March 2022

This article analyses the content of 2742 news items on tourismification and tourism-phobia in Barcelona published in the Spanish press between 2008 and 2020. Based on Foucault’s theoretical approach to the study of discourse and applying a content analysis method, the social construction of a tourism model is critically analysed through the examination of tourismification narratives. The dominant discourse on tourismification expressed by the Spanish press is organised into the following three narrative axes: the use of a local community point of view to highlight mass tourism as a contested social issue, governance as a solution for tourismification within the framework of the debate about the city’s tourist identity and the use of tourism-phobia as a formula for politicisation of the discourse on tourism, to influence public opinion and develop power relations. The press discourse proposes a narrative that incorporates a critical reading of tourism in place of the previous growth-based discourse. However, while this discourse advocates for tourism as an invariable, necessary and strategic element of the city, even during episodes of extreme tourism crisis, it fights shy of alternative approaches that call for a ‘transformative turn’ in tourism.
Digital self-tracking, habits and the myth of discontinuance: It doesn’t just ‘stop’
Authors: Clark Marianne , Southerton Clare , Driller Matthew
Published: March 2022

Digital self-tracking devices increasingly inhabit everyday landscapes, yet many people abandon self-trackers not long after acquisition. Although research has examined why people discontinue these devices, less explores what actually happens when people unplug. This article addresses this gap by considering the embodied and habitual dimensions of self-tracking and discontinuance. We consider the potential for digital data – and their unanticipated affects – to linger within habitual practices even after the device is abandoned. We draw on the philosophies of Felix Ravaisson and Gilles Deleuze to understand habit as a capacity for change, rather than a performance of sameness. We trace how self-tracking prompts new embodiments that continue to unfold even after people disengage. In decentring the device as our object of attention, we trouble the logic that self-tracking simply ‘stops’ in its absence. This holds implications for theorizing human–digital relations and for how self-tracking health interventions are implemented and evaluated.
Multimodality imaging of carotid web: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yan Yuzhu , Yao Weikai , Liu Jishuang , Cui Li
Published: March 2022

Objectives

The carotid web is a compelling potential mechanism of cryptogenic stroke. It is easy for it to escape diagnosis or be misdiagnosed, since it rarely causes hemodynamic stenosis. Currently, there is a lack of consensus on the prevalence, etiology, imaging evaluation, and treatment strategy of carotid artery. We aimed to present the multimodal imaging of carotid web and comprehensively review the characteristics of carotid web.

Methods

A 38 year-old man with carotid web, who presented with acute left hemispheric syndrome, was not identified by computed tomography angiography and high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging in the initial report, but were identified in retrospect and then confirmed by digital subtraction angiography and histopathology. A literature review of carotid web was performed to identify prevalence, nature history, imaging tools, and optimal management of carotid web.

Results

80 reports including 681 patients with carotid web were identified. The prevalence of symptomatic carotid web was 1.2% in patients with transient ischemic attack/stroke, 6.4% in patients with cryptogenic ischemic stroke, 1.1% in patients with large vessel occlusion stroke, and 4.4% in patients who operated on for carotid stenosis. A total of 23.0% patients had bilateral carotid web. In most patients, carotid web was located on the posterior wall (87.3%) of the carotid artery (98.7%). The mean length was 3.3 mm and mean stenosis rate was 20.9%. A total of 31.6% percent patients had thrombus trapped in carotid web and 75.9% patients had large vessel occlusion. Computed tomography angiography and digital subtraction angiography were favorable tools to detect carotid web. There were rare periprocedural complications and no recurrent strokes in carotid revascularization patients.

Conclusions

carotid web is an under-recognized cause of ischemic stroke. It is easy to be missed or misdiagnosed. Carotid revascularization can effectively prevent recurrent stroke for patients with symptomatic carotid web. Clinicians should strength their learning and understanding of carotid web.
The implicit effect of action mental simulation on action evaluation
Authors: Ianì Francesco , Limata Teresa , Bucciarelli Monica , Mazzoni Giuliana
Published: March 2022

The main assumption underlying the present investigation is that action observation elicits a mandatory mental simulation representing the action forward in time. In Experiment 1, participants observed pairs of photos portraying the initial and the final still frames of an action video; then they observed a photo depicting the very same action but either forward or backward in time. Their task was to tell whether the action in the photo portrayed something happened before or after the action seen at encoding. In this explicit task, the evaluation was faster for forward photos than for backward photos. Crucially, the effect was replicated when instructions asked only to evaluate at test whether the photo depicted a scene congruent with the action seen at encoding (implicit task from two still frames, Experiment 2), and when at encoding, they were presented a single still frame and evaluated at test whether a photo depicted a scene congruent with the action seen at encoding (implicit task from single still frame; Experiment 3). Overall, the results speak in favour of a mandatory mechanism through which our brain simulates the action also in tasks that do not explicitly require action simulation.
Iron overload status in patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia in China
Authors: Huang Yumei , Yang Gaohui , Wang Man , Wei Xiaoyun , Pan Lingyuan , Liu Jiaodi , Lei Yu , Peng  , Long Liling , Lai Yongrong , Liu Rongrong
Published: March 2022

Background:

Iron overload is one of the main factors that increase morbidity and mortality in patients with non-transfusion dependent thalassemia (NTDT).

Aim:

This study aimed at investigating the prevalence and severity of iron overload in Chinese NTDT patients.

Methods:

we analyzed serum ferritin (SF), liver iron concentration (LIC) and cardiac T2* in 178 Chinese NTDT in this cross-sectional study.

Results:

The median SF level was 996.00(27.15–19704.00) ng/ml and the median LIC value was 8.90(0.60–43.00) mg Fe/g dry weight (dw). The youngest patient with liver iron overload was 5 years old with 5.6 mg Fe/g dw in LIC. The median cardiac T2* was 33.06(7.46–75.08) ms. 6 patients had cardiac T2*⩽20ms. The patients with β thalassemia intermedia and HbE/β thalassemia showed a statistically significant lower Hb and higher values of SF and LIC than those of hemoglobin H disease patients. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, patients in ⩾ age 30-year old had a significant higher risk for iron overload (OR: 77.75, 95% CI: 8.76–690.49) in the age group. The detailed analysis of proportions of different LIC indicate in  > 30-year old group, 76.8% patients suffered from moderate and severe LIC.

Conclusion:

Our study provides a strong support for the novel findings that Chinese NTDT patients have a high prevalence of iron overload. The first assessment of MRI LIC should be performed as early as 5 years old. Then, NTDT patients  > 30 years old may suffer with a high burden of iron overload.
Aromatase inhibitor–associated musculoskeletal pain: An overview of pathophysiology and treatment modalities
Authors: Grigorian Nelly , Baumrucker Steven J
Published: March 2022

Since their introduction into clinical use in the 1970s, aromatase inhibitors have been a cornerstone of therapy for estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Unfortunately, this therapy leads to estrogen depletion in the body, which can lead to unpleasant side effects such as menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, slightly increased risk of ischemic heart disease, accelerated bone loss leading to higher osteoporosis risk, and most significantly, arthralgias. The joint pain induced by aromatase inhibitor therapy is frequently cited as the leading cause of premature discontinuation; approximately 50% of patients will report new onset or worsening joint pain 1 year after therapy initiation, approximately 30% of patients discontinue therapy after 1 year, and only 50%–68% of patients remain fully compliant with therapy after 3 years. This article will describe risk factors for aromatase inhibitor–associated musculoskeletal syndrome, including genetic predispositions correlated with an increased risk of this syndrome, explain the currently understood pathophysiology, and give an overview of effective treatment options in managing this syndrome.
An audit of patients admitted to hospital in Nepal for COPD exacerbation
Authors: Styrvold Marte , Heggset Sterten Ane Jonette , Shrestha Sudeep , Dhakal Subodh , Harstad Ingunn
Published: March 2022

Objectives:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a large and increasing problem in low- and middle-income countries; Nepal is no exception. We aimed to obtain information on patient characteristics and the level of care provided to patients admitted for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in two Nepalese hospitals and to compare the given care with the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study. All patients admitted to two Nepalese hospitals due to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease between 18 February and 5 April 2019 were asked to participate.

Results:

In total, 108 patients with a median age of 70 years participated. Fifty-three (42.7%) were male, 80 (74.8%) were former smokers, and 46 (45.1%) were farmers. Using the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease A-D classification, 97 (90.6%) of the patients were classified in group D. All the patients received supplementary oxygen treatment and 103 (95.4%) were treated with short-acting beta2 agonists. A total of 105 (97.2%) patients received antibiotics, and 80 (74.5%) received systemic corticosteroids. The majority was discharged with triple therapy including long-acting muscarinic antagonist, long-acting beta2 agonist, and inhaled corticosteroids, and 72 (75.8%) were discharged with long-term oxygen treatment.

Conclusion:

All elements of the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines were applied. However, due to a lack of information, it cannot be concluded whether the treatment was provided on the correct indications. The average patient received almost all the treatment alternatives available. This might indicate a very sick population or over-treatment.
ETS variant transcription factor 6 enhances oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced inflammatory response in atherosclerotic macrophages via activating NF-κB signaling
Authors: Xiong Xiaofang , Yan Zheng , Jiang Wei , Jiang Xuejun
Published: March 2022

Objectives: Macrophages play a critical role in atherosclerosis by contributing to plaque development, local inflammation, and thrombosis. Elucidation of the molecular cascades in atherosclerotic macrophages is important for preventing and treating atherosclerosis. This study aims to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms that regulate the function of aorta macrophage in atherosclerosis. Methods: In the current study, the expression and function of ETS variant transcription factor 6 (ETV6) in aorta macrophages in a mouse atherosclerosis model. Aorta macrophages were enriched by flow cytometry. ETV6 expression was analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR. The role of ETV6 in macrophage-mediated pro-inflammatory response was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo after ETV6 silencing. Results: A remarkable elevation of ETV6 in aorta macrophages of atherosclerotic mice was observed. In addition, in vitro analysis indicated that oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) up-regulated ETV6 in macrophages via the NF-κB pathway. ETV6 silencing suppressed oxLDL-induced expression of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in macrophages in vitro. However, ETV6 silencing did not impact the uptake of either oxLDL or cholesterol by macrophages. Furthermore, ETV6 silencing suppressed oxLDL-induced activation of the NF-κB pathway in macrophages, as evidenced by less phosphorylation of IKKβ and NF-κB p65, more cytoplasmic IκBα, and lower nuclear NF-κB p65. Moreover, ETV6 silencing inhibited the production of IL-1β and TNF-α in aorta macrophages in vivo. Conclusion: ETV6 supports macrophage-mediated inflammation in atherosclerotic aortas. This is a novel mechanism regulating the pro-inflammatory activity of atherosclerotic macrophages.
Management of Severe Scoliosis with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Single-Center Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Li Qiang , Zeng Fei , Chen Tao , Liang Mengqiu , Lei Xue , Liang Yijian , Zheng Chuandong , Huang He
Published: March 2022

Aims

To determine the impact of anesthesia encountered and to optimize the treatment of perioperative pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in an effort to improve perioperative management and reduce complications.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of scoliosis patients with PAH who underwent scoliosis surgery.

Results

During this period, we identified a total of 22 patients. Their mean age was 22.18 ± 2.11 years. 16 PAH patients (72.72%) received PAH-specific treatment. Only Propofol-based TIVA was used intraoperatively. During the procedure, pulmonary artery catheters and PICCO catheters were placed in all patients to monitor intraoperative and postoperative mPAP, MAP, PRVI and SRVI. During tracheal intubation and intraoperative awake testing, mPAP generally tended to increase in all patients. 6 patients (27.27%) received intraoperative PAH-Specific therapy. All patients received oral sildenafil (75-100 mg/d orally), and 9 patients received postoperative oral sildenafil combined with nebulized iloprost (20 μg/d); intravenous treprostinil (2 ng/kg/min started and titrated to 10-17.5 ng/kg/min); or bosentan (250 mg/d) postoperatively. 7 patients (31.82%) reported postoperative complications, including 2 cases of respiratory failure requiring reintubation, 1 case of right heart failure, 2 cases of superficial surgical site infection, 1 case of fluid and electrolyte and acid-base imbalances, 2 cases of pneumonia and 1 case of pulmonary oedema with fluid overload. Two patients developed more than 1 postoperative complication. No in-hospital death occurred.

Conclusions

The anesthetic management of scoliosis patients with PAH is important task that, like its own surgery, relies on the input of the multidisciplinary team for its success. Close monitoring, optimization of systemic blood pressure, pain control, oxygenation and ventilation, avoidance of exacerbating factors, and the use of vasopressors and pulmonary vasodilators when necessary are essential elements of management.
Geography needs science, science needs Geography
Authors: Thomas David SG
Published: March 2022

Physical geography continues to have complex relationships both with Geography as a whole and the natural sciences. At a time when the nature and future of physical geography and its sub-disciplines has been questioned, I explore these changing relationships and their impacts on the discipline itself and on our collective ability to understand and address environmental crises. The exploration is through the themes of disciplinary shape and institutional change, physical geography’s content and interactions, and how its practitioners badge themselves in an increasingly inter- even trans-disciplinary world. I conclude that there is now a fluidity between disciplines in which Geography holds an important place in research addressing key environmental challenges. This is evidenced by records of publication, conferences and employment mobility between the silos of academic departments. More than ever, the challenges facing environment and society today require collective, inclusive, efforts to achieve solutions that are beyond the capacity of a single discipline. Geography’s complexity and frequent rewiring position it well to be part of the research into global grand challenges that require disciplinary agility. Fears over Geography’s shape and practice can be more than offset by the need to contribute to holistic endeavours, so long as vital sub-disciplinary building blocks are not lost in desiloing endeavours.
Rebuilding Geography for the 21st century through disciplinary reunification and social engagement
Authors: Liu Weidong , Cheng Han , Han Xiao
Published: March 2022

In this article, we reflect on the institutional conditions of disciplinary Geography and geographical knowledge production. While valuing diversity and vitality, we argue that Geography is becoming a ‘broken bottle’ with an increasingly loose conceptual or analytical ‘core’. Today, our disciplinary identity hinges more on the first half of various sub-fields – economic, urban, cultural – leaving the geography hanging and open to interpretation. The trend has been exacerbated by the intensification of academic neoliberalism and impact factor-driven publishing, which further stretches what it means to be a geographer. We propose to re-centre the region and make it the heart of geographical research and teaching of the 21st century, in order to rethink how the geographical scholarly community may rebuild ‘trading zones’ and social engagement.
Ethics as first method: Reframing geographies at an(other) ending-of-the-world as co-motion
Authors: Howitt Richard
Published: March 2022

Drawing inspiration from diverse Indigenous scholars and mentors, as well as Levinas’ advocacy of ‘ethics as first philosophy’, this article advocates a radical contextualist reframing of geographical research as needing to address the challenges targeted by this new peer review journal. Reframing our disciplinary challenges in this way might acknowledge the need to cast off the discipline’s Eurocentric (or more particularly, its Anglo-American) blinkers, and also many other taken-for-granted notions of philosophy, theory, models, methods and practice. Even the most critical geographies often start with the imperative to speak rather than listen, to direct rather than engage, to command rather than respond. In Geography, we aim literally to write the world. This article argues that transforming chaotic commotion to ethical co-motion invites deep listening across barriers of difference to begin the skills of learning to belong together in place with diverse others over time.
Complete chloroplast genome sequences of three aroideae species (Araceae): lights into selective pressure, marker development and phylogenetic relationships
Authors: Li Bicong , Liu Tao , Ali Asjad , Xiao Yao , Shan Nan , Sun Jingyu , Huang Yingjin , Zhou Qinghong , Zhu Qianglong
Published: March 2022

Background

Colocasia gigantea,Caladium bicolorandXanthosoma sagittifoliumare three worldwide famous ornamental and/or vegetable plants in the Araceae family, these species in the subfamily Aroideae are phylogenetically perplexing due to shared interspecific morphological traits and variation.

Result

This study, for the first time ever, assembled and analyzed complete chloroplast genomes ofC. gigantea,C. bicolorandX. sagittifoliumwith genome sizes of 165,906 bp, 153,149 bp and 165,169 bp in length, respectively. The genomes were composed of conserved quadripartite circular structures with a total of 131 annotated genes, including 8 rRNA, 37 tRNA and 86 protein-coding genes. A comparison within Aroideae showed seven protein-coding genes (accD,ndhF,ndhK,rbcL,rpoC1,rpoC2andmatK) linked to environmental adaptation. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed a close relationship ofC. giganteawithC. esculentaandS. colocasiifolia, and theC. bicolorwithX. sagittifolium.Furthermore, three DNA barcodes (atpH-atpI + psaC-ndhE,atpH-atpI + trnS-trnG,atpH-atpI + psaC-ndhE + trnS-trnG) harbored highly variable regions to distinguish species in Aroideae subfamily.

Conclusion

These results would be beneficial for species identification, phylogenetic relationship, genetic diversity, and potential of germplasm resources in Aroideae.
Identification of novel alternative splicing associated with mastitis disease in Holstein dairy cows using large gap read mapping
Authors: Asselstine V. , Medrano J. F. , Cánovas A.
Published: March 2022

Background

Mastitis is a very common disease in the dairy industry that producers encounter daily. Transcriptomics, using RNA-Sequencing (RNA - Seq) technology, can be used to study the functional aspect of mastitis resistance to identify animals that have a better immune response to mastitis. When the cow has mastitis, not only genes but also specific mRNA isoforms generated via alternative splicing (AS) could be differentially expressed (DE), leading to the phenotypic variation observed. Therefore, the objective of this study was to use large gap read mapping to identify mRNA isoforms DE between healthy and mastitic milk somatic cell samples (N = 12). These mRNA isoforms were then categorized based on being 1) annotated mRNA isoforms for gene name and length, 2) annotated mRNA isoforms with different transcript length and 3) novel mRNA isoforms of non - annotated genes.

Results

Analysis identified 333 DE transcripts (with at least 2 mRNA isoforms annotated, with at least one being DE) between healthy and mastitic samples corresponding to 303 unique genes. Of these 333 DE transcripts between healthy and mastitic samples, 68 mRNA isoforms are annotated in the bovine genome reference (ARS.UCD.1.2), 249 mRNA isoforms had novel transcript lengths of known genes and 16 were novel transcript lengths of non - annotated genes in the bovine genome reference (ARS.UCD.1.2). Functional analysis including gene ontology, gene network and metabolic pathway analysis was performed on the list of 288 annotated and unique DE mRNA isoforms. In total, 67 significant metabolic pathways were identified including positive regulation of cytokine secretion and immune response. Additionally, numerous DE novel mRNA isoforms showed potential involvement with the immune system or mastitis. Lastly, QTL annotation analysis was performed on coding regions of the DE mRNA isoforms, identifying overlapping QTLs associated with clinical mastitis and somatic cell score.

Conclusion

This study identified novel mRNA isoforms generated via AS that could lead to differences in the immune response of Holstein dairy cows and be potentially implemented in future breeding programs.
Let’s talk about sex: exploring factors influencing the discussion of sexual health among chronically Ill patients in general practice
Authors: Barnhoorn P. C. , Prins Inge C. , Zuurveen Hannah R. , Oudsten Brenda L. den , Ouden Marjolein E. M. den , Numans Mattijs E. , Elzevier Henk W. , van Ek Gaby F.
Published: March 2022

Background

Chronic diseases are often associated with sexual dysfunction (SD). Little is known about the practice patterns of general practitioners (GPs) regarding sexual care for chronically ill patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine; to what extent GPs discuss SD with chronically ill patients; the barriers that may stop them; and the factors associated with discussing SD.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey using a 58-item questionnaire was sent to 604 Dutch GPs. Descriptive statistics and associations were used for analysis of the data.

Results

Nearly 58% (n = 350) of all GPs approached gave a response and 204 questionnaires were analysable (33.8%). Almost 60% of respondents considered discussing SD with patients important (58.3%, n = 119). During the first consultation, 67.5% (n = 137) of the GPs reported that they never discussed SD. The most important barrier stopping them was lack of time (51.7%, n = 104). The majority (90.2%, n = 184) stated that the GP was responsible for addressing SD; 70.1% (n = 143) indicated that the GP practice somatic care nurse (GPN) was also responsible. Nearly 80% (n = 161) of respondents were unaware of agreements within the practice on accountability for discussing SD. This group discussed SD less often during first and follow-up consults (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively). Of the respondents, 61.5% (n = 116) felt that they had received insufficient education in SD and 74.6% (n = 150) stated that the subject is seldom discussed during training. Approximately 62% of the GPs (n = 123) wanted to increase their knowledge, preferably through extra training. According to 53.2% of the GPs (n = 107) it was important to improve the knowledge of the GPN. The most frequently mentioned tool that could help improve the conversation about SD was the availability of information brochures for patients (n = 123, 60.3%).

Conclusions

This study indicates that Dutch GPs do not discuss SD with chronically ill patients routinely, mainly due to lack of time. An efficient tool is needed to enable GPs to address SD in a time-saving manner. Increased availability of informational materials, agreements on accountability within GP practices, and extra training for the GPs and GPNs could improve the discussion of SD.
High prevalence of pre-treatment HIV drug resistance in Papua New Guinea: findings from the first nationally representative pre-treatment HIV drug resistance study
Authors: Gare Janet , Toto Ben , Pokeya Percy , Le Linh-Vi , Dala Nick , Lote Namarola , John Bangan , Yamba Abel , Soli Kevin , DeVos Joshua , Paulin Heather , Wagar Nick , Zheng Du-Ping , Nishijima Takeshi , Boas Peniel , Kelly-Hanku Angela , Gurung Anup
Published: March 2022

Background

Determining the prevalence of pre-treatment HIV drug resistance (PDR) is important to assess the effectiveness of first-line therapies. To determine PDR prevalence in Papua New Guinea (PNG), we conducted a nationally representative survey.

Methods

We used a two-stage cluster sampling method to recruit HIV treatment initiators with and without prior exposure to antiretroviral therapies (ART) in selected clinics. Dried blood spots were collected and tested for PDR.

Results

A total of 315 sequences were available for analysis. The overall PDR prevalence rate was 18.4% (95% CI 13.8–24.3%). The prevalence of PDR to non-nucleoside analog reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) was 17.8% (95% CI 13.6–23.0%) and of PDR to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) was 6.3% (95% CI 1.6–17.1%). The PDR prevalence rate among people reinitiating ART was 42.4% (95% CI 29.1–56.4%).

Conclusions

PNG has a high PDR prevalence rate, especially to NNRTI-based first-line therapies. Our findings suggest that removing NNRTIs as part of first-line treatment is warranted and will lead to improving viral suppression rates in PNG.
The association between helicobacter pylori infection and erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease; a cross-sectional study
Authors: Niknam Ramin , Lankarani Kamran Bagheri , Moghadami Mohsen , Taghavi Seyed Alireza , Zahiri Leila , Fallahi Mohammad Javad
Published: March 2022

Background

The association between H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) infection and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a complex and confusing subject. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between helicobacter pylori infection and erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Method

In a cross-sectional study, all patients referred for endoscopy due to dyspepsia were enrolled. The diagnosis of erosive GERD was made by endoscopy. Patients with normal esophagus were selected as comparison group. Random gastric biopsies were taken from all participants to diagnose H. pylori infection.

Result

In total, 1916 patients were included in this study, of whom 45.6% had GERD. The mean age (SD) was 42.95 (16.32). Overall, 1442 (75.3%) patients were positive for H. pylori infection. The frequency of H. pylori infection in mild GERD patients was higher than the severe GERD, but this difference was not significant (P = 0.214). Except for sociodemographic status (P < 0.001), other variables including gender, age, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and presence of hiatus hernia in patients had no significant association with the frequency of H. pylori infection. According to Robust Poisson regression models analysis, the association of H. pylori (PR 1.026; 95% CI 0.990–1.064; P = 0.158) and sociodemographic status were not significantly different between the two groups. But smoking, increased BMI, older age, presence of hiatus hernia, and peptic ulcer diseases were significantly associated with GERD compared with the non-GERD group.

Conclusion

In our results, there was no association between H. pylori infection and erosive GERD. Further studies are recommended.
The magnitude and associated factors of childbirth fear among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public hospitals in Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Berhanu Robera Demissie , Abathun Asresash Demissie , Negessa Endalew Hailu , Amosa Lensa Gari
Published: March 2022

Background

Childbirth fear affects 5–40% of all mothers around the world, and there is mounting evidence that it has harmful impacts on women’s health. It could potentially lead pregnant women to feel isolated and unsupported if not identified. But studies addressing this issue are limited in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was aimed at assessing the magnitude and associated factors of childbirth fear among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public hospitals in West Wollega Zone.

Methods

Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 304 pregnant women selected by systematic random sampling from 20 March to 20 April 2020. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was adapted and used to collect data. Data were entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to IBM SPSS statistics version 26 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were done to calculate frequencies, mean scores, and standard deviation. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with childbirth fear. Variables with p < 0.25 in bivariate analyses were selected for multivariable analysis. Finally, statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05.

Results

Out of the total of 304 participants, 298 completed the interview making the response rate 98%. The overall prevalence of childbirth fear was 28.9% with 95% CI (23.5, 34.2). Mean age of the respondents was 27.60 (SD ± 4.56) years. Having previous pregnancy complications [AOR (95% CI)], [6.949 (2.060 – 23.445), presence of long time during childbirth [AOR (95% CI)], [4.765 (1.161 – 19.564)], presence of episiotomy [AOR (95% CI)], [4.197 (1.107 – 15.917)], low social support [AOR (95% CI)], [.011 (.003 – .050)] were significantly associated with childbirth fear.

Conclusion

Pregnant women in the study area have a significant level of childbirth fear. Previous pregnancy complications, prolonged labor, labor pain, previous perineal tear, and social support were all found to be significantly linked with childbirth fear. This calls for the need to identify and develop interventions for women to reduce childbirth fear during pregnancy.
Pre-pregnancy blood pressure and pregnancy outcomes: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Jung Young Mi , Oh Gyu Chul , Noh Eunjin , Lee Hae-Young , Oh Min-Jeong , Park Joong Shin , Jun Jong Kwan , Lee Seung Mi , Cho Geum Joon
Published: March 2022

Background

Hypertension has been known to increase the risk of obstetric complications. Recently, the American College of Cardiology endorsed lower thresholds for hypertension as systolic blood pressure of 130-139 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure 80-89 mmHg. However, there is a paucity of information regarding the impact of pre-pregnancy blood pressure on pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the effect of pre-pregnancy blood pressure on maternal and neonatal complications.

Methods

In this nationwide, population based study, pregnant women without history of hypertension and pre-pregnancy blood pressure < 140/90 mmHg were enrolled. The primary outcome of composite morbidity was defined as any of the followings: preeclampsia, placental abruption, stillbirth, preterm birth, or low birth weight.

Results

A total of 375,305 pregnant women were included. After adjusting for covariates, the risk of composite morbidity was greater in those with stage I hypertension in comparison with the normotensive group (systolic blood pressure, odds ratio = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.59 – 1.78; diastolic blood pressure, odds ratio = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.42 – 1.72). There was a linear association between pre-pregnancy blood pressure and the primary outcome, with risk maximizing at newly defined stage I hypertension and with risk decreasing at lower blood pressure ranges.

Conclusions

‘The lower, the better’ phenomenon was still valid for both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Our results suggest that the recent changes in diagnostic thresholds for hypertension may also apply to pregnant women. Therefore, women with stage I hypertension prior to pregnancy should be carefully observed for adverse outcomes.
Clinical and economic impact of ‘ROS1-testing’ strategy compared to a ‘no-ROS1-testing’ strategy in advanced NSCLC in Spain
Authors: Rojo Federico , Conde Esther , Torres Héctor , Cabezón-Gutiérrez Luis , Bautista Dolores , Ramos Inmaculada , Carcedo David , Arrabal Natalia , García J. Francisco , Galán Raquel , Nadal Ernest
Published: March 2022

Background

Detection of the ROS1 rearrangement is mandatory in patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to allow targeted therapy with specific inhibitors. However, in Spanish clinical practice ROS1 determination is not yet fully widespread. The aim of this study is to determine the clinical and economic impact of sequentially testing ROS1 in addition to EGFR and ALK in Spain.

Methods

A joint model (decision-tree and Markov model) was developed to determine the cost-effectiveness of testing ROS1 strategy versus a no-ROS1 testing strategy in Spain. Distribution of ROS1 techniques, rates of testing, positivity, and invalidity of biomarkers included in the analysis (EGFR, ALK, ROS1 and PD-L1) were based on expert opinion and Lungpath real-world database. Treatment allocation depending on the molecular testing results was defined by expert opinion. For each treatment, a 3-states Markov model was developed, where progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) curves were parameterized using exponential extrapolations to model transition of patients among health states. Only medical direct costs were included (€ 2021). A lifetime horizon was considered and a discount rate of 3% was applied for both costs and effects. Both deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to address uncertainty.

Results

A target population of 8755 patients with advanced NSCLC (non-squamous or never smokers squamous) entered the model. Over a lifetime horizon, the ROS1 testing scenario produced additional 157.5 life years and 121.3 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) compared with no-ROS1 testing scenario. Total direct costs were increased up to € 2,244,737 for ROS1 testing scenario. The incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) was 18,514 €/QALY. Robustness of the base-case results were confirmed by the sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions

Our study shows that ROS1 testing in addition to EGFR and ALK is a cost-effective strategy compared to no-ROS1 testing, and it generates more than 120 QALYs in Spain over a lifetime horizon. Despite the low prevalence of ROS1 rearrangements in NSCLC patients, the clinical and economic consequences of ROS1 testing should encourage centers to test all advanced or metastatic NSCLC (non-squamous and never-smoker squamous) patients.
A quantitative comparison of two measures of postpartum depression
Authors: Holm Ditte-Marie Leegaard , Wohlfahrt Jan , Rasmussen Marie-Louise Hee , Corn Giulia , Melbye Mads
Published: March 2022

Background

Studies investigating the prevalence and risk factors for postpartum depression (PPD) have used different definitions. Some studies have used a high score on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to define PPD, whereas others have used information on antidepressant medication use and/or diagnostic information on treatment for depression at a psychiatric hospital. We wanted to compare results using these two approaches to evaluate to what degree results can be compared. Moreover we wanted to evaluate, whether use of EPDS or PPAT (defined below) leads to identification of different risk factor profiles.

Methods

We identified women who delivered a child between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016 in Copenhagen or in one of the municipalities that were part of the Danish Health Visitors’ Child Health Database. The potential risk factors were demographic factors and pregnancy- and obstetrical events. Outcomes of interest were an EPDS score ≥ 13, use of antidepressants (ATC: N06A) and/or a diagnosis of depression (F32) within six months after birth. Use of antidepressants and/or diagnosis of depression will be referred to as postpartum antidepressant treatment (PPAT). Agreement between EPDS ≥ 13 and PPAT was evaluated by the kappa coefficient. Associations between risk factors and the two outcomes (EPDS ≥ 13 and PPAT) were estimated by risk ratios (RR) using log-linear binomial regression. Presence of a systematic difference between RRs based on EPDS ≥ 13 (RREPDS≥13) and PPAT (RRPPAT) was evaluated in a meta-regression approach weighted by inverse-variance and with logarithm of the RRs as outcome.

Results

The estimated PPD prevalence using EPDS ≥ 13 was 3.2% and of PPAT 0.4%. The agreement between the two measures was small (Kappa = 0.08), but their risk factor profile was very similar with no systematic difference between them.

Conclusions

Using the two different methods of case identification produced different prevalence estimates, but a similar risk factor profile. The differences in estimated prevalence and low agreement suggest that the two measures identify different potential PPD cases and using only one of the methods in defining PPD would underestimate PPD prevalence. The similar risk factor profile suggests that the considered risk factors are involved in the general development of PPD.
Association between depressive symptoms and poor sleep quality among pregnant women in Northern Rural Bangladesh: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Shaun Md Mahbubul Alam , Nizum Md Wahidur Rahman , Shuvo Md Asaduzzaman , Fayeza Fahmida , Faruk Md Omar , Alam Md Fakrul , Ahmed Md Sabbir , Zaman Sanjana , Mali Sujan Kanti , Hawlader Mohammad Delwer Hossain
Published: March 2022

Background

Adequate good quality of sleep is essential for physical fitness during pregnancy as well as being a depressive symptoms-free mind. However, there is little evidence of the relationship between depressive symptoms and poor sleep quality among pregnant women in Bangladesh. This study aimed to find the association between depressive symptoms and poor sleep quality among pregnant women in northern rural Bangladesh.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out from May 2021 to June 2021 among 481 pregnant women tested positive in the pregnancy test of Jaldhaka and Dimla Upazila of Nilphamari district, Rangpur Division. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire including socio-demographic conditions, sleep quality, and depressive symptoms, comprising the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Patient Health Questionnaire- 9 (PHQ-9).

Results

8.94% of the women had depressive symptoms, whereas 38.88% of the participants were bad sleepers. However, women who had depressive symptoms [Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.55; 95% CI 1.33-4.9] and educational qualifications above 10 years [AOR = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.39-0.92] were associated with poor sleep quality.

Conclusions

A higher percentage of pregnant women had poor sleep quality, whereas depressive symptoms and academic background of the participants were significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Ensuring adequate sleep time and better quality could be helpful to prevent depressive symptoms.
The impact of schizotypy on quality of life among adults with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Klang Albin , Westerberg Britta , Humble Mats B. , Bejerot Susanne
Published: March 2022

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizotypal personality disorder can be difficult to distinguish. Deficits in social relationships and social interaction, present in both conditions, are known to impair quality of life. The aim of the present study was to investigate if schizotypal symptoms affect quality of life among adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and to study the association between schizotypy and autistic traits among them.

Methods

Participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (n = 110) completed questionnaires exploring schizotypy (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire – Brief Revised (SPQ-BR)), autistic traits (The Ritvo Autism, Asperger Diagnostic Scale-Revised Screen 14 items), anxiety and depression (The Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale) and quality of life (Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Scale and the European quality of life index version 5D).

Results

Schizotypy was found to be associated with anxiety, depressive and autistic symptoms, and poor quality of life. Although schizotypy was a predictor for impaired quality of life, this relationship was mediated by symptoms of anxiety and depression, plausibly inherent to autism. Autistic traits were positively associated with all higher order constructs of the SPQ-BR, i.e. positive and negative schizotypy, disorganization and social anxiety, as well as with poor quality of life.

Conclusions

There is considerable overlap between schizotypy and autism that needs to be considered in research. Prominent schizotypal traits in people with ASD may constitute an endophenotype coinciding with a particularly poor quality of life.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03570372: Internet-based Treatment for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (MILAS).