bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catalysing global surgery: a meta-research study on factors affecting surgical research collaborations with Africa
Authors: Kirengo Thomas O. , Dossajee Hussein , Onyango Evans M. , Rachakonda Reema H. , Schneider Bailey , Sela Declan P. , Hosseinzadeh Zahra , Nadeem Zohaib , Obonyo Nchafatso G.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In December 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for rapid collaboration, research, and interventions. International research collaborations foster more significant responses to rapid global changes by enabling international, multicentre research, decreasing biases, and increasing study validity while reducing overall research time and costs. However, there has been low uptake of collaborative research by African institutions and individuals.

Aim

To systematically review facilitating factors and challenges to collaborative surgical research studies conducted in Africa.

Methodology

A meta-research review using PubMed®/MEDLINE and Embase on surgical collaboration in Africa from 1st of January 2011 to 31st of September 2021 in accordance to PRISMA guidelines. Surgical studies by collaborative groups involving African authors and sites were included (55 papers). Data on the study period, geographical regions, and research scope, facilitating factors, and challenges were extracted from the studies retrieved from the search.

Results

Most of the collaborations in Africa occurred with European institutions (76%). Of the 54 African countries, 63% (34/54) participated in surgical collaborations. The highest collaboration frequency occurred in South Africa (11%) and Nigeria (8%). However, most publications originated from Eastern Africa (43%). Leveraging synergies between high- and low- to middle-income countries (LMICs), well-defined structures, and secure data platforms facilitated collaboration. However, the underrepresentation of collaborators from LMICs was a significant challenge.

Conclusion

Available literature provides critical insights into the facilitating factors and challenges of research collaboration with Africa. However, there is a need for a detailed prospective study to explore the themes highlighted further.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO 2022 CRD42022352115.
Implementing a pharmacist-integrated collaborative model of medication treatment for opioid use disorder in primary care: study design and methodological considerations
Authors: McLeman Bethany , Gauthier Phoebe , Lester Laurie S. , Homsted Felicity , Gardner Vernon , Moore Sarah K. , Joudrey Paul J. , Saldana Lisa , Cochran Gerald , Harris Jacklyn P. , Hefner Kathryn , Chongsi Edward , Kramer Kimberly , Vena Ashley , Ottesen Rebecca A. , Gallant Tess , Boggis Jesse S. , Rao Deepika , Page Marjorie , Cox Nicholas , Iandiorio Michelle , Ambaah Ekow , Ghitza Udi , Fiellin David A. , Marsch Lisa A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Pharmacists remain an underutilized resource in the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). Although studies have engaged pharmacists in dispensing medications for OUD (MOUD), few studies have evaluated collaborative care models in which pharmacists are an active, integrated part of a primary care team offering OUD care.

Methods

This study seeks to implement a pharmacist integrated MOUD clinical model (called PrIMO) and evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, and impact across four diverse primary care sites. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research is used as an organizing framework for study development and interpretation of findings. Implementation Facilitation is used to support PrIMO adoption. We assess the primary outcome, the feasibility of implementing PrIMO, using the Stages of Implementation Completion (SIC). We evaluate the acceptability and impact of the PrIMO model at the sites using mixed-methods and combine survey and interview data from providers, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, administrators, and patients receiving MOUD at the primary care sites with patient electronic health record data. We hypothesize that it is feasible to launch delivery of the PrIMO model (reach SIC Stage 6), and that it is acceptable, will positively impact patient outcomes 1 year post model launch (e.g., increased MOUD treatment retention, medication regimen adherence, service utilization for co-morbid conditions, and decreased substance use), and will increase each site’s capacity to care for patients with MOUD (e.g., increased number of patients, number of prescribers, and rate of patients per prescriber).

Discussion

This study will provide data on a pharmacist-integrated collaborative model of care for the treatment of OUD that may be feasible, acceptable to both site staff and patients and may favorably impact patients’ access to MOUD and treatment outcomes.

Trial registration: The study was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05310786) on April 5, 2022, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05310786?id=NCT05310786&rank=1
New development of compact magnetic separator for on-site material screening in various geological survey
Authors: Jinnouchi So , Uyeda Chiaki , Hisayoshi Keiji , Takayama Gen , Terada Kentaro
Published: March 2024

Magnetic separation has been recognized as a valuable technique for extracting or separating target materials from mixed heterogeneous particles. In conventional geological research, it has been used to separate ferro- and ferri-magnetic minerals such as Fe–Ni metal, magnetite and ilmenite. Recently, a mixture of diamagnetic and weak paramagnetic particles has been successfully separated into groups of different materials using a compact magnetic circuit; however, the resolution was not sufficiently high to analyze various heterogeneous particles studied in geological research. Here, we show that the resolution has remarkably improved by developing new magnetic separator. Accordingly, the separation efficiency of particles due to magnetic translation increased by a factor of ~ 2.5, and two different materials were definitely resolved when their variance of the magnetic susceptibility exceeded ~ 2 × 10−7 emu/g; previously, limit of the resolution was above 7 × 10–7 emu/g. We also established the orbit simulation program in magnetic and gravitational field, which accurately predicted the actual trajectory due to magnetic translation. The improved separation resolution of the new separator has significantly increased the range of solid materials that can be magnetically separated, and the range of applications has been considerably expanded to include the matrix of primitive meteorites, surface soils of solid planets and satellites, volcanic ash and sedimentary rocks. The newly developed device is compact and requires little electric power, allowing on-site material screening in various geological research.
Temporary slip speed increases during short-term slow slip events with durations of one to three hours
Authors: Katsumata Akio , Miyaoka Kazuki , Tsuyuki Takahiro , Itaba Satoshi , Tanaka Masayuki , Ito Takeo , Takamori Akiteru , Araya Akito
Published: March 2024

Temporary slip speed increases with durations of 1–3 h were identified during short-term slow slip events in records of borehole and laser strainmeters in the Tokai region, Japan. They were found by searching for peaks of correlation coefficients between stacked strain data and ramp functions with rise times of 1 and 2 h. Although many of the strain steps were considered due to noise, some strain steps occurred with simultaneous activation of the deep tectonic tremors and shared source areas with the tremors. From 2016 to 2022, we observed five strain steps with simultaneous activation of tectonic tremors and coincidence of source locations with the tremors. Those strain steps occurred during short-term slow slip events and were temporary slip speed increases of the slow slip events. Those strain steps seemed to be related to successive occurrences with source migration of short-term slow slip events. The detrended strain steps corresponded to plate boundary slip events of moment magnitude around 5, which was consistent with the scaling law of slow earthquakes.

Graphical Abstract
Association of food consumption patterns and nutritional status of children under 5 years from rural households in Northern regions, Namibia
Authors: Angula Maria , Ishola Anthony , Tjiurutue Muvari , Chigonga Nozizwe , Sulyok Michael , Krska Rudolf , Ezekiel Chibundu N. , Misihairabgwi Jane
Published: March 2024

Background

Many developing countries, Namibia included, have a high prevalence of malnutrition among children, especially in rural subsistence farming areas where inadequate food supply is common. Poor diets in children under 5 years may result in negative health impacts. This study determined the association of food consumption patterns and nutritional status of children under 5 years from rural households in Oshana and Oshikoto regions in Namibia.

Method

Employing a cross-sectional descriptive design, 377 children under 5 years participated in this study using purposive sampling. Validated dietary diversity and food frequency questionnaires were used to obtain information on demographic characteristics, commonly consumed food per week, and meal frequencies for the recruited children. Anthropometric measurements were obtained to assess nutritional status of children using Emergency Nutrition Assessment (ENA) software. Descriptive and inferential statistics were computed using the IBM® SPSS® Statistics (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 27.

Results

Staple foods, mostly grains, roots and tubers, along with flesh foods, legumes and nuts were commonly consumed. Vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables were solely consumed in Oshana region (10.7%) and not in Oshikoto. Oshana exhibited a lower dietary diversity score (4±1 SD) compared to Oshikoto (5±1 SD). The prevalence of adequate feeding practices varied, with Oshana having 38.8% meeting minimum milk feeding frequency (MMFF), 55.6% minimum dietary diversity (MDD), 69.8% minimum meal frequency (MMF), and 27% minimum acceptable diet (MAD). In Oshikoto, these figures were lower at 2%, 7%, 32%, and 0.5%, respectively. Stunting, underweight, wasting, and overweight were also documented, with slight differences between the two regions. The study did not find association between nutritional status and MMFF, MDD and MAD. However, significant associations were found between specific food types, amount of food, breastfeeding length, MMF and malnutrition indicators in both regions (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Most study participants consumed locally available staple foods. Stunting, underweight, and wasting were prevalent among children in the two regions which were significantly associated to the amount of food consumed, MMF and/ some food types. Improving food environments and eliminating access barriers to diversified diets can mitigate high prevalence of malnutrition among rural children.
A narrative review of the therapeutic and remedial prospects of cannabidiol with emphasis on neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Omotayo Oluwadara Pelumi , Lemmer Yolandy , Mason Shayne
Published: March 2024

Background

The treatment of diverse diseases using plant-derived products is actively encouraged. In the past few years, cannabidiol (CBD) has emerged as a potent cannabis-derived drug capable of managing various debilitating neurological infections, diseases, and their associated complications. CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and curative effects in neuropathological conditions, and it exhibits therapeutic, apoptotic, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties. However, more information on the reactions and ability of CBD to alleviate brain-related disorders and the neuroinflammation that accompanies them is needed.

Main body

This narrative review deliberates on the therapeutic and remedial prospects of CBD with an emphasis on neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. An extensive literature search followed several scoping searches on available online databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus with the main keywords: CBD, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and cannabinoids. After a purposive screening of the retrieved papers, 170 (41%) of the articles (published in English) aligned with the objective of this study and retained for inclusion.

Conclusion

CBD is an antagonist against pro-inflammatory cytokines and the cytokine storm associated with neurological infections/disorders. CBD regulates adenosine/oxidative stress and aids the downregulation of TNF-α, restoration of BDNF mRNA expression, and recovery of serotonin levels. Thus, CBD is involved in immune suppression and anti-inflammation. Understanding the metabolites associated with response to CBD is imperative to understand the phenotype. We propose that metabolomics will be the next scientific frontier that will reveal novel information on CBD’s therapeutic tendencies in neurological/neuropsychiatric disorders.
Frequency of burnout in dental students and its relationship with stress level, depressive, and anxiety state
Authors: Alhilali Khetam , Husni Mariwan , Almarabheh Amer
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of burnout in dental students at the Dentistry School of University of Qadisiya, Iraq. All students at the dentistry school were invited to participate in the study. Medical and dental education is a highly demanding endeavor. Burnout is associated with anxiety, depression, and stress levels. Addressing these psychological factors and manage them early will improve the well-being of students.

Material and methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted with the participation of 147 dentistry school students. The students completed a sociodemographic data form, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI).

Results

The DASS-21 scale scores for all three components (depression, anxiety, and stress) were high in 74.1%, 90.4%, and 98% of the respondents, respectively. The results also showed that high scores of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment were reported in 50.3%, 67.3%, and 89.8% respectively. MBI revealed a significant association with presence of an established diagnosis of a mental illness or a chronic illness, but not with sociodemographic characteristics. Students had a high stress perception but had relatively lower than depression and anxiety. Almost half of the students reported that they were moderately or severely depressed or anxious.

Conclusion

All MBI subscales had statistically significant correlation with scores of mental health or chronic physical illnesses. The respondents reported high percentages of all components of MBI. Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress is much higher in dental students compared to the general population. They also have a very high prevalence of all components of the MBI. Further research is warranted to explore additional factors contributing to burnout and mental health issues among dental students and to develop effective strategies for prevention and intervention.
Exploring the prognostic significance of blood carnitine and acylcarnitines in hepatitis C virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Abbass Basuni Ashraf , Sheashaey Azza El , Fert Ashraf El , Obada Manar , Abdelsameea Eman , Abdel-Samiee Mohamed , Ibrahim Asmaa , Khalil Ashraf
Published: March 2024

Background

Hepatic energy metabolism is intricately linked with the metabolic changes associated with HCV infection and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study investigated the potential of carnitine and acylcarnitines as markers for monitoring the development and progression of HCC in the context of HCV-induced liver cirrhosis. Blood samples from patients with chronic liver cirrhosis due to HCV (n = 55) and from those with HCC (n = 90) were analyzed, alongside samples from healthy control subjects (n = 25), utilizing liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry.

Results

Principal component analysis revealed distinct metabolic clustering patterns, segregating HCC and HCV patients into separate groups. Pairwise comparisons showed significantly elevated acylcarnitine levels in both HCV and HCC patients when compared to the control group (p = 0.001). Importantly, there was no significant difference between HCV and HCC groups, although linear trend analysis indicated an increasing linear trend that reached its peak in the HCC group, signifying a notable relationship with disease severity (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The observed carnitine and acylcarnitine levels in HCV and HCC patients offer crucial clinical insights, suggesting their potential as valuable diagnostic and prognostic markers.
Formulation and evaluation of nanobiotherapeutics of Terminalia arjuna through plant tissue culture for atherosclerosis
Authors: Wadekar Pradnya Pradeep , Salunkhe Vijay Rajaram
Published: March 2024

Background

The study seeks to investigate the therapeutic potential of Terminalia arjuna callus in addressing atherosclerosis. In order to get maximum beneficial phytoconstituents from Terminalia arjuna, it is recommended to harvest the bark from Arjuna trees that are at least 15 years old and a gap of minimum 2 years should be kept before harvesting bark from the same plant. The callus culture technique was employed to expedite the process. The callus culture extract was subsequently converted into a nanosuspension with the aim of improving the efficacy of its phytoconstituents. It was then subjected to a comprehensive series of in vitro and in vivo evaluations to ascertain its potential for treatment of atherosclerosis.

Results

Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the callus extract confirmed the presence of flavonoids and terpenoids, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Some terpenoids were even absent in Arjuna tree naturally. TEM images validated successful entrapment of the extract within the nanoparticles. In vitro analysis for antilipase and antioxidant assay confirmed the antiatherosclerotic potential of the extract. In vivo tests on rat blood serum demonstrated a significant reduction in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, and very low-density lipoprotein. Histopathological analysis of rat aortas showed additional confirmation of antiatherosclerotic action.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the study highlights the potential of nanosuspension derived from Terminalia arjuna callus extract as a comprehensive therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis treatment. The research highlights antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiatherosclerotic properties of the callus, hinting at its viability as a potential treatment for atherosclerosis. This interdisciplinary investigation emphasizes the promising role of traditional medicinal plants within modern medical paradigms.
Design, synthesis, 2D-QSAR, molecular dynamic simulation, and biological evaluation of topiramate–phenolic acid conjugates as PPARγ inhibitors
Authors: Padhy Ipsa , Banerjee Biswajit , Achary P. Ganga Raju , Gupta Pramodkumar P. , Sharma Tripti
Published: March 2024

Background

Obesity is a precursor for many co-morbid diseases. One of the main triggering factors for obesity is the abnormal expansion of white adipose tissue characterized by high rates of genesis and differentiation of precursor cells into mature adipocytes. As a result, targeting adipogenesis and adipogenic transcription factors opens new roadmaps for developing novel antiobesity pharmacotherapies. The present study was intended to rationally develop topiramate–phenolic acid conjugate for targeting obesity via inhibition of PPARγ which is often considered as the master regulator of adipogenesis.

Results

2D QSAR models were built to foretell PPARγ inhibitory activity of designed conjugates. The models presented excellent robustness, goodness of fit, and predictive capability compounds. The highest PPARγ inhibitory activity was predicted for T3 (topiramate–caffeic acid conjugate) with a pIC50 value of 7.08 µM. Molecular docking was performed for all the designed conjugates against PPARγ (PDB ID: 3VSO). The highest binding affinity was exhibited by T3 (− 11.27 kcal/mol) and displayed strong and stable interactions with the receptor within the allosteric pocket in comparison to the irreversible PPARγ antagonist, GW9662 (binding affinity, − 9.0 kcal/mol). These results were confirmed by subjecting the best-docked molecules to molecular dynamic simulations. The PPARγ–T3 complex was observed to be most stable with maximum number of hydrogen bonds (maximum observed RMSD = 0.57 Å at 100 ns) in comparison to PPARγ–topiramate and PPARγ–caffeic acid complexes. Consequently, T3 was synthesized and further subjected to in vitro screening. The TR-FRET assay established T3 as a PPARγ antagonist (IC50 = 6.78 µM). T3 also significantly reduced the lipid buildup in the 3T3-L1 adipocytes in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, T3 also reduced the protein expression levels of PPARγ as evidenced from western blot results.

Conclusions

Studies clearly indicated that T3 reduces adipose tissue cell differentiation by downstreaming PPARγ expression at protein levels, thereby emerging as a novel scaffold for antiobesity pharmacotherapy.

Graphical abstract
Adaptive laterally constrained inversion of time-domain electromagnetic data using hierarchical Bayes
Authors: Li Hai , Di Qingyun , Li Keying
Published: March 2024

Laterally constrained inversion (LCI) of time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) data is effective in recovering quasi-layered models, particularly in sedimentary environments. By incorporating lateral constraints, LCI enhances the stability of the inverse problem and improves the resolution of stratified interfaces. However, a limitation of the LCI is the recovery of laterally smooth transitions, even in regions unsupported by the available data sets. Therefore, we have developed an adaptive LCI scheme within a Bayesian framework. Our approach introduces user-defined constraints through a multivariate Gaussian prior, wherein the variances serve as hyperparameters in a hierarchical Bayes algorithm. By simultaneously sampling the model parameters and hyperparameters, our scheme allows for varying constraints throughout the model space, selectively preserving lateral constraints that align with the available data sets. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our adaptive LCI scheme through a synthetic example. The inversion results showcase the self-adaptive nature of the strength of the constraints, yielding models with smooth lateral transitions while accurately retaining sharp lateral interfaces. An application to field TEM data collected in Laizhou, China, supports the findings from the synthetic example. The adaptive LCI scheme successfully images quasi-layered environments and formations with well-defined lateral interfaces. Moreover, the Bayesian inversion provides a measure of certainty, allowing for a comprehensive illustration of the confidence in the inversion results.
Power-law frequency-dependent Q simulations in viscoacoustic media using decoupled fractional Laplacians
Authors: Zhang Yabing , Zhu Hejun , Liu Yang , Chen Tongjun
Published: March 2024

Quantifying the seismic attenuation of wave propagation in the earth’s interior is essential for studying subsurface structures. Previous approaches for attenuation simulations (e.g., the standard linear solid and the fractional derivative model) are mainly based on the frequency-independent quality factor Q assumption. However, seismic attenuation in high-temperature and high-pressure regions usually exhibits power-law frequency-dependent Q characteristics. To simulate this Q effect in attenuative media, we derive a new viscoacoustic wave equation with decoupled fractional Laplacians in the time domain. Unlike the existing methods using relaxation functions to fit the power-law relationship in a specific frequency band, our equation is directly derived from the approximated complex modulus, which explicitly involves the reference quality factor and fractional exponent parameters. Furthermore, this equation contains two fractional Laplacians, which can easily simulate decoupled amplitude dissipation and phase distortion effects, making it amenable to Q-compensated reverse time migration. In the implementation, a Taylor-series expansion and a pseudospectral method are introduced to solve the fractional Laplacians with variable fractional exponents. Numerical experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our method for power-law frequency-dependent Q simulations. As a forward-modeling engine, our derived viscoacoustic wave equation is a good supplement to the current Q simulation methods and it could be applied in many seismic applications, such as Q-compensated reverse time migration and full-waveform inversion.
Bilateral Inferior Petrosal Sinus Sampling Without Lateralization Is Less Accurate for the Diagnosis of Cushing Disease
Authors: Chen Shi , Lyu Xiaohong , Hong Weixin , Zhang Dingyue , Zhang Yuelun , Yang Daiyu , Xu Yijing , Shen Zhen , Pan Hui , Zhu Huijuan , Zhang Xiaobo , Lu Lin
Published: March 2024

Context

During bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS), the side-to-side adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) ratio, referred to as sampling lateralization, was used to predict pituitary adenoma localization.

Objective

To investigate the potential different diagnostic accuracy of BIPSS for differentiating Cushing disease (CD) and ectopic ACTH secretory syndrome (EAS) patients with low lateralization (inferior petrosal sinus [IPS]:IPS ≤ 1.4) and high lateralization (IPS:IPS > 1.4).

Methods

This single-center retrospective study (2011-2021) included (all patients had BIPSS results and confirmed pathologic diagnoses) 220 consecutive CD patients (validation set), 30 EAS patients, and 40 of the CD patients who had digital subtraction angiography (DSA) videos (discovery set).

Results

In the discovery set, the low-lateralization CD group (n = 11) had a higher median plasma ACTH concentration (62.2, IQR 44.7-181.0 ng/L) than the high-lateralization CD group (n = 29) (33.0, IQR 18.5-59.5, P = .013). Lower IPS to peripheral ratios were observed in the low-lateralization group during BIPSS, both before and after stimulation (P = .013 and P = .028). The sensitivity of BIPSS before stimulation in differentiating CD from EAS was lower in the low-lateralization group than the high-lateralization group (54.6% vs 93.1%, P = .003), as validated in the validation set. DSA videos revealed higher vascular area difference visible in the 2 sides of the pituitary in low lateralization (median 1.2 × 105 pixels, IQR 0.5-1.8) than the high-lateralization group (0.4 × 105 pixels, IQR 0.1-0.7, P = .008). The vascular area ratio of the 2 sides was also significantly higher in low (1.55, IQR 1.31-2.20) than high lateralization (1.19, IQR 1.07-1.35, P = .010).

Conclusion

Our study suggested that low lateralization in CD patients may reduce the diagnostic sensitivity of BIPSS, which might be potentially associated with peripituitary vascular anatomy.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound Aids in the Management of Patient Taking Semaglutide Before Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Hodgson John A. , Rivera-Rodriguez Heine , Wu Peter , Udani Jaison , Weiss Jeffrey
Published: March 2024

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog, has various effects on the gastrointestinal tract. In patients undergoing anesthesia delayed gastric emptying time can have sequelae if not identified preoperatively. Modalities include thorough history regarding the last dose administration of a GLP-1 analog and ultrasound of gastric contents before induction of anesthesia. We present a case in which gastric ultrasound identified a patient at increased risk for aspiration on induction and allowed for appropriate alterations in the anesthetic plan.
Predictors of cognitive impairment and its association with mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients: A prospective follow-up study
Authors: Anees Muhammad , Pervaiz Shahabaz , Aziz Samreen , Elahi Irfan
Published: March 2024

Objective: To determine predictors of cognitive impairment (CI) and its association with mortality in maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) patients.

Methods: This prospective follow up study was conducted at HD Department, Mayo Hospital, Lahore from September, 2021 to November, 2022. All patients undergoing MHD for more than three months and having age between 18-65 years were included while those with dialysis duration less than three months, history of neuropsychiatric illness was excluded. Cognitive function was assessed using British Columbia Cognitive Complaints Inventory (BC-CCI) questionnaire. CI was defined on Likert scale as mild, moderate, and severe. Patients were followed up to one year regarding outcome measures.

Results: One hundred and four patients were included in the study. Mean age was 45.86±11.11 years and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) was the most common cause of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in 39(37.5%) patients. CI was found in 86(82.7%) patients in following order of severity: mild 61(58.7%), moderate 19(18.3%) and severe 6(5.9%). Increasing age (≥50 years), gender (female), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), unemployment and education <10th grade were found as significant predictors of CI (p<0.05). Significant positive correlations of CI score with age (r=0.338, p<0.001) and MHD duration (r=0.211, p=0.032) were found. However, the CI was not significantly associated with mortality (p=0.302).

Conclusion: CI was common in MHD patients. Factors affecting CI were increasing age, female gender, DM, unemployment and low education level. CI was not associated with mortality in MHD patients.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7836

How to cite this: Anees M, Pervaiz MS, Aziz S, Elahi I. Predictors of cognitive impairment and its association with mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients: A prospective follow-up study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(5):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7836

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical value of combined detection of Carcinoembryonic Antigen and CA125 in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer combined with Malignant Pleural Effusion
Authors: Yan Wanyu , Li Yakun , Peng Zhanxian
Published: March 2024

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of combined detection of carcinoembryonic antigen(CEA) and CA125 in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC) combined with malignant pleural effusion.

Methods: This was retrospective research. Fifty-six NSCLC patients combined with malignant pleural effusion in Baoding No.1 Hospital, China, from January 2020 to January 2022 were recruited as the malignant group, and another 56 NSCLC patients combined with pleural effusion in the same period were recruited as the benign group. Pleural effusion and serum specimens were collected from both groups and their carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen 125(CA125) and SP70 antigen levels were measured respectively. The differences in index levels between the two groups were compared, and the value of the index in diagnosing NSCLC combined with malignant pleural effusion was analyzed.

Results: The positive rates of CEA, CA125 and SP70 antigen in pleural effusion were higher in the malignant group than in the benign group (p>0.05); The positive rates of CEA and CA125 in the malignant group were higher than those in the benign group (p>0.05), with no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the positive rates of SP70 antigen (p>0.05). ROC curve analysis revealed the value of serum CEA and CA12 in the diagnosis of NSCLC combined with malignant pleural effusion, while serum SP70 antigen had no diagnostic value (p>0.05).

Conclusion: The combined detection of CEA, CA125 and SP70 antigen boasts a higher diagnostic value for NSCLC-mediated pleural effusion, with higher diagnostic value than the combined detection of serum indexes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7956

How to cite this: Yan W, Li Y, Peng Z. Clinical value of combined detection of Carcinoembryonic Antigen and CA125 in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer combined with Malignant Pleural Effusion. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(5):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.5.7956

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A cross-sectional study on exploring the antecedents of patient’s revisit intention: Mediating role of trust in the hospital among patients in India
Authors: Akthar Nahima , Nayak Smitha , Pai P Yogesh
Published: March 2024

Background: In the healthcare domain, patients’ trust in the hospital plays an instrumental role in determining the behavioral intention of the patient. This article attempts to investigate the impact of service quality perception on behavioral intention with the mediating effect of trust in the hospital and patient satisfaction. Methods: This research was carried out in multispecialty hospitals located in Bangalore Urban and Mysore districts of Karnataka during August 2021. This was a questionnaire-based study and the sample size was 242. Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 27.0 and SmartPLS 3.0 software was used to analyze the data. Results: The findings revealed that perceived service quality significantly influences trust through patient satisfaction (observed partial mediation) and patient satisfaction significantly impacts behavioral intention through trust (observed partial mediation). Conclusion: This study empowers hospital managers to understand the factors influencing behavioral intention. Healthcare professionals must ensure that good quality service is delivered to enhance patient satisfaction and trust in adverse services, which influence behavioral intention among the patients.
Why Are Corporate Investment Horizons Shrinking? Uncovering the Spillover Effects of Shareholder Litigation
Authors: DesJardine Mark R. , Shi Wei , Cheng Yin
Published: March 2024

Existing research shows that shareholder pressures can shorten firms’ investment horizons. Yet studies have so far been limited to the actions shareholders take directly toward a focal firm. Considering that shareholder pressures may spill over between organizations, we argue that firms shorten their investment horizons following shareholder-initiated lawsuits against their peers in an effort to boost their short-run performance and preempt being sued themselves. We further posit that the negative relationship between this form of litigation threat and a firm’s investment horizon is weakened among firms with more long-term shareholders or future-focused CEOs, both of which guard against managers becoming overly short-term oriented. An examination of 18 years of shareholder litigation data supports our theory. This study highlights shareholder litigation as a distinct form of shareholder voice and one that is sufficiently potent to create spillover effects between firms.
Insights into optimal surgical fixation for posterior malleolar fractures
Authors: Su Yu-Cheng , Wang Ying-Yu , Fang Ching-Ju , Tu Yu-Kang , Chang Chih-Wei , Kuan Fa-Chuan , Hsu Kai-Lan , Shih Chien-An
Published: March 2024

Aims

The optimal management of posterior malleolar ankle fractures, a prevalent type of ankle trauma, is essential for improved prognosis. However, there remains a debate over the most effective surgical approach, particularly between screw and plate fixation methods. This study aims to investigate the differences in outcomes associated with these fixation techniques.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive review of clinical trials comparing anteroposterior (A-P) screws, posteroanterior (P-A) screws, and plate fixation. Two investigators validated the data sourced from multiple databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science). Following PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a network meta-analysis (NMA) using visual analogue scale and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included range of motion limitations, radiological outcomes, and complication rates.

Results

The NMA encompassed 13 studies, consisting of four randomized trials and eight retrospective ones. According to the surface under the cumulative ranking curve-based ranking, the A-P screw was ranked highest for improvements in AOFAS and exhibited lowest in infection and peroneal nerve injury incidence. The P-A screws, on the other hand, excelled in terms of VAS score improvements. Conversely, posterior buttress plate fixation showed the least incidence of osteoarthritis grade progression, postoperative articular step-off ≥ 2 mm, nonunions, and loss of ankle dorsiflexion ≥ 5°, though it underperformed in most other clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

The NMA suggests that open plating is more likely to provide better radiological outcomes, while screw fixation may have a greater potential for superior functional and pain results. Nevertheless, clinicians should still consider the fragment size and fracture pattern, weighing the advantages of rigid biomechanical fixation against the possibility of soft-tissue damage, to optimize treatment results.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):227–235.
Contradictions, dilemmas, views and motivations of volunteers in two community food support schemes in two London boroughs
Authors: Mulrooney Hilda , Ranta Ronald
Published: March 2024

The voluntary and charitable sector is responsible for much food support in the UK, in the absence of direct government action. A rise in food insecurity (FI) places additional importance on the work of unpaid volunteers, instrumental in food support schemes. Their perceptions, views and experiences are essential contributors to maintaining and enhancing such provision. Semi-structured interviews were held with 51 volunteers at two food support schemes in neighbouring London boroughs. Most volunteers were white and middle-aged and almost half were in paid work. Generally high levels of empathy towards clients were expressed, although some were concerned about possible abuse of the support. Contradictory views were expressed in relation to both personal responsibility for FI and the pay-as-you-feel model; training on both is needed. Major motivators for involvement in volunteering were the perceived value of the work and alignment of projects with personal interests, skills and beliefs. Benefits were viewed as wider than solely nutritional. Ethical difficulties described included the appropriateness of using surplus food to address FI, allowing supermarkets to effectively ‘greenwash’ and failing to address underlying drivers of both FI and food overproduction. Volunteers were also concerned that their involvement allowed the government to abdicate responsibility.
Spatiotemporal sculpturing of light: a tutorial
Authors: Zhan Qiwen
Published: March 2024

Spatiotemporal sculpturing of light pulses with sophisticated structures on demand is one major goal of the everlasting pursuit of ultrafast information transmission and processing as well as ultraintense energy concentration and extraction using light. It may hold the key to unlocking new extraordinary fundamental physical effects. Traditionally, spatiotemporal light pulses are treated as spatiotemporally separable wave packets as a solution to Maxwell’s equations. In the past decade, more generalized forms of spatiotemporally nonseparable solution started to emerge with growing importance for their striking physical effects. This tutorial intends to provide the necessary basics on how to sculpture light in the spatiotemporal domain to realize spatiotemporal structures on demand and highlight some of the recent advances in the creation and characterization of increasingly complex spatiotemporal wave packets. These spatiotemporally separable to complex nonseparable states with diverse geometric and topological structures exhibit unique physical properties during propagation, focusing, and interaction with matter. The broad potential applications as well as outlook and future trends and open challenges in this field are presented.
Snapshot dual-wavelength digital holography with LED and laser hybrid illumination
Authors: Wang Yue , Xi Teli , Zhang Xinyu , Guo Chengfei , Shao Xiaopeng
Published: March 2024

To address the problem of the time-sharing recording of dual-wavelength low-coherence holograms while avoiding the use of customized achromatic optical elements, a snapshot dual-wavelength digital holography with LED and laser hybrid illumination is proposed. In this method, the parallel phase-shifting method is firstly employed to suppress zero-order and twin-image noise, and to record a LED hologram with low speckle noise and full field of view. Secondly, another laser hologram with a different center wavelength affected by speckle noise is recorded simultaneously using the spatial multiplexing technique. Finally, dual-wavelength wrapped phase images are reconstructed from a spatial multiplexing hologram, and then are combined to achieve low-noise phase unwrapping utilizing the iterative algorithm. Simulation and optical experiments on a reflective step with a depth of 1.38µm demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve single-shot and large-range height measurements while maintaining low-noise and full-field imaging.
Light and gas dual-function detection and mutual enhancement based on hyperdoped black silicon
Authors: Dong Binbin , Wang Wenjing , Liu Xiao-Long , Li Hua , Li Yuan , Huang Yurui , Ning Xijing , Zhao Li , Zhuang Jun
Published: March 2024

We introduce a unique dual-function detector with an asymmetric light illumination based on the black silicon co-hyperdoped with sulfur and nitrogen for light and gas detection, and the properties in NO2 gas sensing and photoelectric detection are studied under various light and gas environments, respectively. Enhanced performance of the device under certain light and gas conditions is observed. When illuminated at the optimal wavelength, the gas sensors’ responsivity to NO2 can be enhanced by approximately 5 to 200 times over 730 nm illumination, respectively. The photodetectors’ photoresponsivity increases 15 to 200 times in a 300 ppm NO2 gas environment compared to air. Such mutual enhancement achieved through the clever combination of light and gas implies a novel approach to improve the performance of the black silicon detectors in both gas sensing and photoelectric detection.
Reconfigurable origami hologram based on deep neural networks
Authors: Wang Kang , Liao DaShuang , Wang Haogang
Published: March 2024

Reconfigurable and multifunctional metasurfaces are becoming indispensable in a variety of applications due to their capability to execute diverse functions across various states. However, many of these metasurfaces incorporate complex active components, thereby escalating structural complexity and bulk volume. In this research, we propose a reconfigurable passive hologram based solely on an origami structure, enabling the successful generation of holograms depicting the ‘Z’ and ‘L’ illuminated by a right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) wave in two distinct states: planar and zigzag configuration, respectively. The transformation between the 2D planar metasurface and the 3D zigzag structure with slant angles of 35 is achieved solely through mechanically stretching and compressing the origami metasurface. The phases on the origami metasurface are trained through a deep neural network which operates on the NVIDIA Tesla k80 GPU, with the total training process costing 11.88 s after 100 epochs. The reconfigurable scheme proposed in this research provides flexibility and ease of implementation in the fields of imaging and data processing.
The WHO atlas for female-genital schistosomiasis: Co-design of a practicable diagnostic guide, digital support and training
Authors: Martinez Santiago Gil , Mbabazi Pamela S. , Sebitloane Motshedisi H. , Vwalika Bellington , Mocumbi Sibone , Galaphaththi-Arachchige Hashini N. , Holmen Sigve D. , Randrianasolo Bodo , Roald Borghild , Olowookorun Femi , Hyera Francis , Mabote Sheila , Nemungadi Takalani G. , Ngcobo Thembinkosi V. , Furumele Tsakani , Ndhlovu Patricia D. , Gerdes Martin W. , Gundersen Svein G. , Mkhize-Kwitshana Zilungile L. , Taylor Myra , Mhlanga Roland E. E. , Kjetland Eyrun F.
Published: March 2024

Up to 56 million young and adult women of African origin suffer from Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS). The transmission of schistosomiasis happens through contact with schistosomiasis infested fresh water in rivers and lakes. The transmission vector is the snail that releases immature worms capable of penetrating the human skin. The worm then matures and mates in the blood vessels and deposits its eggs in tissues, causing urogenital disease. There is currently no gold standard for FGS diagnosis. Reliable diagnostics are challenging due to the lack of appropriate instruments and clinical skills. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends “screen-and-treat” cervical cancer management, by means of visual inspection of characteristic lesions on the cervix and point-of-care treatment as per the findings. FGS may be mistaken for cervical cancer or sexually transmitted diseases. Misdiagnosis may lead to the wrong treatment, increased risk of exposure to other infectious diseases (human immunodeficiency virus and human papilloma virus), infertility and stigmatisation. The necessary clinical knowledge is only available to a few experts in the world. For an appropriate diagnosis, this knowledge needs to be transferred to health professionals who have minimal or non-existing laboratory support. Co-design workshops were held with stakeholders (WHO representative, national health authority, FGS experts and researchers, gynaecologists, nurses, medical doctors, public health experts, technical experts, and members of the public) to make prototypes for the WHO Pocket Atlas for FGS, a mobile diagnostic support tool and an e-learning tool for health professionals. The dissemination targeted health facilities, including remote areas across the 51 anglophone, francophone and lusophone African countries. Outcomes were endorsed by the WHO and comprise a practical diagnostic guide for FGS in low-resource environments.