bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A preliminary probabilistic nomogram model for predicting hyperuricemia in male participants
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Liang Hao , Zhu Ye 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Hyperuricaemia (HUA) is a major contributing factor to the development of gout and is linked to an increased risk of cardiometabolic disease, particularly in men. Despite this, there is a lack of simple tools for predicting HUA in male patients. This study aims to develop and validate a nomogram model to estimate the risk of HUA in male subjects.
Methods
A total of 21,953 eligible male participants, aged 18 years and older, were consecutively recruited during routine medical examinations at Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital from July 2014 to August 2023. To identify factors related to HUA in male subjects, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and logistic regression methods were used. A nomogram was subsequently constructed to predict the likelihood of HUA in men.The performance of the proposed nomogram was evaluated based on a calibration plot, ROC curve and Harrell’s concordance index (C-index).
Results
Patients with hyperuricemia exhibited significantly elevated levels of BMI, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, blood glucose, serum urea, creatinine, total cholesterol, LDL-c, and triglyceride levels compared to those without hyperuricemia (P < 0.001). Conversely, the age and HDL-c levels of patients with hyperuricemia were notably lower than those without hyperuricemia (P < 0.001). Predictors used in the prediction nomogram included LDL-c, TG, HDL-c and serum Creatinine and RBC. Then, a nomogram model for predicting HUA was established based on the above indicators. Our model achieved well-fitted calibration curves and the C-indices of this model were 0.700 (95% CI: 0.692–0.708) and 0.705 (95% CI: 0.691–0.720) in the development and validation groups, respectively.
Conclusions
With excellent predictive abilities, the nomogram serves as a straightforward and dependable tool for estimating the risk of HUA among male participants.
Static magnetic field inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and metastasis of glioma
Authors: Sun Ziyu , Zhao Wenxuan , Fei Xi-feng , He Bao , Shi Lei , Zhang Zhen , Cai Shi-zhong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Gliomas show suboptimal responses to conventional treatments, with tumor cell migration remaining a formidable challenge in glioma therapy. Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) facilitates invasion of glioma cells, and transforming growth factor β1 serves as a potent factor promoting proliferation, migration, and EMT in glioblastoma (GBM). Magnetic fields have been widely applied in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, but their effects on the EMT process in glioma cells remain unclear. In this study, we investigated whether a static magnetic field (SMF) could inhibit EMT and metastasis in glioma cells. Conduct functional analysis using U251 and U87 glioma cell lines. The results indicated that cells treated with TGF-β1 increased invasion and migration capabilities, while showing reduced apoptosis. However, when SMFs were combined with TGF-β1 treatment, there was a notable suppression of cell migration and invasion, accompanied by an increase in apoptosis. Additionally, this combination treatment significantly decreased the protein expression of mesenchymal markers N-cadherin and β-catenin, as well as reduced the levels of the recombinant protein MMP-2. Collectively, these findings suggest that SMFs may reduce glioma cell metastasis by inhibiting EMT. Therefore, SMFs could represent a promising therapeutic strategy for diminishing glioma metastasis.
Intention to use Virtual reality technology for clinical training and its predictors among Medical Students in Amhara Regional State Teaching Hospitals, Ethiopia,2024: unified theory of user acceptance technology (UTUAT2) model
Authors: Wassie Birhan , Fentahun Ashenafi , Zemene Wondosen , Wubete Aschale , Demis Nebebe , Alelegn Berihun , Tsegaw Adem , Addisu Eliyas , Dessie Kassahun 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Virtual Reality (VR) technology has emerged as a powerful tool with great potential in medical education and training. Virtual reality offers unique opportunities for medical students to improve clinical skills, know rare cases, improve patient safety and improve health outcomes. Despite the growing interest in Virtual reality in medical education, the actual adoption and usage of this technology among medical students in Ethiopia remain relatively unexplored. Therefore, this study assesses the intention to use Virtual reality technology for clinical training and its predictors among medical students in Ethiopia.
Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted on 946 medical students from May 25 to June 24, 2024, in seven teaching hospitals in the Amhara region, Ethiopia. Proportionally allocated for each hospital and participants was selected using a computer-generated simple random sampling technique. The data were collected in all teaching hospitals through an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were done using SPSS version 27. The degree of association was assessed and validated using structural equation modeling using AMOS version 23.
Results: about 464(51.4%); 95% CI: [48.2–54.7] of participants have intention to use the Virtual reality technology for clinical training. Performance expectancy (β=0.13, 95% CI: [0.06–0.29], p-value<0.01), effort expectancy (β = 0.12, 95% CI: [0.05–0.24], p-value<0.01), hedonic motivation (β =0.14, 95% CI: [0.09–0.29], p-value<0.001), attitude (β=0.17, 95% CI [0.1- 0.33], p-value<0.001) and digital literacy (β=0.15, 95% CI: [0.10–0.33], p-value<0.01) had a positive relationship with intention to use virtual reality technology. In addition, attitude had a mediation effect between all constructs and behavioral intention to use. The relationship between hedonic motivation and intention to use virtual reality technology was moderated by gender.
Conclusion and recommendation: about half of medical students have intention to use virtual reality technology for clinical training. Intervention on Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, attitude and digital literacy had improved medical students’ intention to use virtual reality technology.
Impact of educational intervention on pharmacists’ management of acute uncomplicated urinary tract infections in adults - A double-blind randomised controlled trial
Authors: SHOWANDE Segun Johnson , ABDULHAFIZ Taofiq Tanimola 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common minor ailments presented at pharmacies and often lead to significant morbidity and healthcare costs and can impact quality of life. The increasing prevalence of UTIs and rising antibiotic resistance highlight the need for effective management strategies within the community pharmacy setting. This study evaluated the effectiveness of an online educational intervention to improve community pharmacists' ability to manage acute uncomplicated UTIs.
Methods
A double-blind, randomised controlled trial was conducted among pharmacists in 51 community pharmacies in Ibadan, Nigeria. The study used a self-administered questionnaire and eight trained mystery patients (MPs) who delivered four different scripted scenarios at pharmacies before and after the intervention. The impact of an online educational intervention was assessed by the MPS between the pharmacists in the intervention group (IG = 24) and the control group (CG = 27). The primary outcome evaluated was a global score for pharmacists' ability to manage acute uncomplicated UTIs (a composite score for appropriate questions asked, recognition of minor ailments as UTIs, and suitable recommendations). Secondary outcomes included pharmacists' self-reported knowledge of UTI risk factors, symptoms, and management and barriers to UTI management. Between-group mean scores were compared using an independent sample t-test.
Results
A total of 408 MP visits were made to the pharmacies. The mean global score for pharmacists’ ability to manage UTIs improved post-intervention (CG = 6.89 ± 2.59, IG = 13.58 ± 3.76, p < 0.001, d = 2.10). Additionally, the mean scores for appropriate questions asked, recognition of minor ailments, and appropriate recommendations also improved in the IG. The mean percentage of pharmacists' knowledge across the three domains—risk factors, UTI symptoms, and management—was 32–38%. Perceived barriers to UTI management included inadequate consultation time, lack of knowledge, insufficient training, and service compensation.
Conclusions
The online educational intervention enhanced community pharmacists' ability to manage UTIs by improving their skills. However, barriers like limited consultation time and lack of compensation exist. Policymakers should promote the use of treatment guidelines and incentivise pharmaceutical care to support effective UTI management.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov with registration number NCT05399797
Early detection of anastomotic leak in intraperitoneal fluid after colorectal surgery
Authors: Lakyová Lucia Sukovská , Radoňak Jozef , Ján Chandoga , Tomečková Vladimíra , Sukovský Lukáš 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:Anastomotic leak (AL) represents serious complications of colorectal surgery and significantly influences patients’ morbidity and mortality. We investigated whether the analysis of lactate and pyruvate in the peritoneal fluid can help detect AL earlier than the current non-specific biochemical examination.
Methods: Fifty-four adult patients (median age: 52 years) with colorectal carcinoma were enrolled in this prospective study. Patients were divided into the following three groups: group B – patients without AL after resection, group D – patients with AL after resection, and control group C – patients after palliative surgery without resection. We measured the concentration of lactate and pyruvate and calculated the lactate/pyruvate ratio in the peritoneal fluid of patients for the first 7 days after surgery.
Results: The most significant difference was recorded between groups D and C (P˂0.001). Statistically significant differences were observed in the concentration of lactate between group B and group D over 7 days, except on the first postoperative day (P˂0.001). Upon comparison of groups B and D and groups C and D, the lactate/pyruvate ratio showed the most significant difference on the second postoperative day (P=0.002).
Conclusion: High levels of lactate and lactate/pyruvate ratio allows early identification of AL as early as 2 days after surgery.
Investigating the Correlations Among Clinical, Laboratory, and Imaging Findings in Pediatric Patients with Osteomyelitis and Septic Arthritis: A 12- Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Barkhordarioon Amirali , Torshizi Mahdieh Mousavi , Shariatpanahi Ghazal , Mojtahedi Sayed Yousef 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background: Septic arthritis (SA) and Osteomyelitis (OM) are critical pediatric emergencies that can lead to severe complications, including mortality. The study aimed to investigate the relationships between risk factors and clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings in these diseases.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 65 pediatric patients (46 diagnosed with SA and 19 with OM). Relevant demographic data, clinical, laboratory and imaging findings were analyzed.
Results: 45 (69.2%) patients were male. The mean age was 5.4 years for SA and 4.8 years for OM. The mean duration of hospitalization was 8.1 days for SA and 15.32 days for OM. Eight patients (12.3%) experienced comorbidity, leading to longer hospitalization. The most affected joints were the knee, hip, and ankle, whereas the most affected bones were the femur, tibia, and humerus. The main clinical symptoms and signs of OM included pain, tenderness, and fever, whereas those of SA included pain, limited mobility, and tenderness. Leukocytosis was observed in 57.9% of OM patients and 50% of SA patients. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) elevation was found in 52.6% of OM patients and 54.3% of SA patients. Elevated C-Reactive Protein (CRP) was present in 68.4% of OM and 80.4% of SA patients. Blood cultures were positive in 23.1% of OM patients and synovial fluid cultures in 23.5% of SA patients, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common organism isolated (75%). There was a correlation between hospitalization duration for SA patients and abnormal ultrasound or X-ray findings.
Conclusions: SA and OM were predominantly observed in boys aged 2–12 years. Comorbidities and immunosuppressive medications were associated with increased disease severity. Fever was recorded in less than 80% of the patients. The ESR emerged as the only parameter significantly associated with culture results, highlighting its importance in assessing infection severity and patient follow-up. The relationship between ultrasound findings and SA severity can guide clinical management. These findings identified MRI as the gold standard for diagnosing OM. The low culture positivity rates underscore the need for timely empirical treatment initiation, even in the absence of positive culture results.
Action to Scale Up Reduction of Teenage Pregnancies Among Vulnerable Girls in Eastern Uganda: Findings from a gender mixed methods study
Authors: Kagurusi Patrick , Kwikiriza Benson , Osinde Stephen Omejja , Elizabeth Nagawa , Ajok Dolly , Kapsandui Tony , Nankanja Maureen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Approximately one in every four Ugandan teenagers becomes pregnant by the age of 19. This is often due to early marriages, a practice deeply rooted in tradition, culture and is reinforced by gender inequalities. This limits the ability of women and girls to fully participate in, and benefit from SRHR programmes in Uganda. Therefore, this study explored gender differences, roles and power dynamics at baseline for a SRHR project in Namutumba and Bugiri districts.
Methods
An explanatory mixed methods study was conducted using systematic sampling of 207 participants from a baseline survey of a SRHR project. Participants were recruited after informed consent and assent. Data was collected using semi-structured and electronic questionnaires. deductive thematic and descriptive statistical analysis were done using Open Code software and STATA version 17 respectively.
Results
A total of 207 participants were interviewed, 29.6% were aged between 10–19 years and 53.1% were female. More than half [55.6%] of the participants were married/cohabiting. More women than men engaged in production [farming- 84.4%] and household activities [collecting water − 71.3%, preparing food − 85.2%]. 70.4% and 50.2% men had control and access to land respectively. Only 44% and 42% of both men and women had equal opportunities for personal development and decision making respectively. 51.9% of participants said GBV was happening in communities.
Conclusion
Cultural, patriarchal and religious norms influenced access and control of resources. This disproportionately affected women. Therefore, gender- sensitive interventions tailored to the needs and realities of the communities are recommended for increased access to SRHR services.
Medical Education and Technology: Post-Pandemic Solutions for Emergency Scenarios
Authors: Alves Rafael Arruda , Santos José Sebastião dos , Mazzo Alessandra , Pinto Vinícius Souza 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
This study developed and implemented a teleactivity technology ensuring remote access and real-time interaction between academic and clinical environments in medical education. This solution aimed to minimize the need for physical presence during clinical and educational procedures, while maintaining the quality of teaching, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
The technology was designed as a modular rack with cameras, microphones, and monitors to capture and transmit live procedures. The implementation took place at the Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine (FMRP-USP) and at the Bauru School of Medicine (FMBRU-USP), involving 66 participants. Data collection was carried out through electronic questionnaires, distributed after the educational activities. Quantitative analysis included ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests, while qualitative analysis was conducted using the IRAMUTEQ software to identify emerging themes.
Results
The results showed that 96% of the participants considered that the transmission allowed a clear understanding of the procedures, and 93% evaluated the real-time interaction as effective for learning. The qualitative analysis revealed five main themes, such as the quality of the teaching-learning experience and challenges of adapting to remote teaching. The quantitative analysis highlighted the importance of audio quality for the satisfaction of the participants and identified the preference for the use of the Zoom and YouTube platforms.
Conclusion
The teleactivity technology developed proved to be effective in maintaining the quality of health education during the pandemic and presents itself as a sustainable alternative for medical education in the future. The proposal of a hybrid model, combining remote and face-to-face teaching, shows promise to face future challenges and expand teaching possibilities. Further research is recommended to explore the application of the technology in different areas of health and assess its long-term impact.
Shifting dynamics of Dengue in Ningbo City, China: Impacts of ENSO and Interventions before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chu Yanru , Zhao Yunkang , Abudunaibi Buasiyamu , Wang Yao , Zhang Yanwu , Lei Song , Zhu Zhixin , Tong Feng , Chen Tianmu , Chen Yi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ningbo City, historically non-endemic for dengue, indigenous cases emerged between 2015 and 2020. The persistence of the El Niño phenomenon has further elevated the risk, which is compounded by the influx of visitors for the forthcoming 19th Asian Games, potentially heightening the likelihood of indigenous transmission. In response to these challenges, a series of interventions are implemented during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the changes in dengue dynamics and variations in meteorological factors influenced by ENSO between 2017 and 2023. We observed that there is no recurrence of indigenous transmission in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period. Individuals aged 30–39 and older, as well as unemployed, retired individuals, and residents of Haishu District and Yinzhou District, exhibit a higher risk of dengue infection. A consistent decrease in onset to diagnosis interval is observed over the study period. Trends indicated an increase in Aedes mosquito density in Yinzhou, Haishu, and Fenghua districts, contrary to a significant decline in all other districts. Aedes mosquito population density is associated with temperatures, precipitation, and other meteorological factors. Despite the rising temperatures, precipitation, and population density growth, the previously escalating Aedes mosquito population density has been effectively controlled during the post-COVID-19 period. The dynamic model demonstrates that without interventions during the post-COVID-19 era, there is a risk of the resurgence of indigenous cases. Our analysis demonstrates that the reemergence of indigenous dengue cases in Ningbo City before the COVID-19 pandemic is effectively controlled through continual enhancements in preventive and control measures during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings indicate that despite the rising dengue risk and the recent global surge in dengue cases, effective dengue control can be attained through the consistent adaptation and optimization of interventions.
Development of a National Medical Leadership Competency Framework: Syrian Approach
Authors: Shaddoud Abla , Al-Munajed Mohamad Kusai , Dashash Mayssoon 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives: As team-based practices and integrated care approaches become more prevalent, it is essential for physicians to be skilled practitioners capable of functioning efficiently and effectively within complex health systems. In addition to clinical expertise, they should also develop management and leadership competencies. This study aimed to identify the medical leadership competencies among healthcare professionals in the Syrian Arab Republic.
Methods: The study involved 86 participants. The Self-assessment tool NHS Leadership test was applied, comprising 40 questions. Data was collected through a Google Form which was distributed online. The results were analysed using statistical software SPSS version 24.
Results: Findings showed that the perceptions of resident doctors in Syrian government hospitals regarding the medical leadership competencies were moderate overall, with some items ranked low. The responses revealed that “Demonstrating personal qualities” was the most consistently recognized leadership competencies, with a mean score of (3.42). There were no statistically significant differences at the 0.05 level in medical leadership competencies based on residency year and specialization, although significant differences were observed favoring male participants.
Conclusions: There is a critical need to enhance leadership effectiveness among healthcare professionals in the Syrian Arab Republic, especially in the areas of Setting Direction and Managing services, which received the lowest rankings. This improvement should begin at the undergraduate level through targeted courses during academic semesters, followed by continuous training and exposure to systematic rehabilitation programs during residency.