bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Aromatase inhibitors for short stature in male children and adolescents treated with growth hormone: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Kan , Ye Fei , Wang Da-Yan , Lai Pan-Jian , Zhang Lin-Qian 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWhether the addition of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) to recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) could yield additional benefit for short stature is controversial. We aimed to assess the effects of combined AIs and rhGH versus those of rhGH alone for short stature using a meta-analytic approach. The PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library electronic databases were searched systematically for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception until December 2021. The pooled effect estimates (weighted mean difference [WMD] and odds ratio [OR]) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Eight RCTs that provided data on 433 participants were selected. The addition of AIs to rhGH, compared with rhGH alone, resulted in higher growth velocity (WMD: 3.19 cm/year; 95% CI: 2.75–3.63; P < 0.001), higher predicted adult height (WMD: 5.50 cm; 95% CI: 3.52–7.49; P < 0.001), and younger bone age (WMD: -0.80 years; 95% CI: -1.06–-0.54; P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups for insulin-like growth factor I (WMD: 0.85 nmol/L; 95% CI: -2.08–3.79; P = 0.569), serum estradiol level (WMD: -19.19 pmol/L; 95% CI: -46.25–7.88; P = 0.165), and serum testosterone level (WMD: 14.88 nmol/L; 95% CI: -14.13–43.88; P = 0.315). There was no significant difference between the groups for the risk of adverse events (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.44–2.66; P = 0.873). This study found that the addition of AIs to rhGH had greater benefits for growth velocity, predicted adult height, and bone age. The safety profiles were comparable.
Beyond early warning: towards greater granularity in the use of event-based surveillance for public health emergencies
Authors: McKnight C. J. , Aboushady A. T. , Lane C. R. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
The international health emergency caused by the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus demonstrated the expanding usefulness of multi-country disease outbreak information gathered through event-based surveillance (EBS) as an extension beyond the main purposes of early warning, alert, and response (EWAR). In this article, previous events of multi-country outbreaks from 2010–2019 were reviewed for how EBS, within an expanded sphere of Epidemic Intelligence (EI), may help to enhance the understanding of outbreaks for a more timely and nuanced, multiple-point trigger approach to health emergencies.

Methods
The public, open-source database of ProMed reports were reviewed for the date of first notification on major outbreaks of infectious diseases and then compared for subsequent dates of any new, exceptional epidemiological findings (novel host, settings, transmission characteristics) as a determining factor for prolonged, multi-country events later acknowledged on the WHO disease outbreak news (DON) website, or by peer-reviewed journal publication if no related DON information became available.

Results
During the preceding decade, there was an ongoing occurrence of unexpected outbreaks requiring new information about previously unknown pathogens, such as MERS-CoV, and longstanding threats from multiple neglected tropical diseases. During these international outbreaks, key scientific insights about new host species, viral persistence, occurrence of human-to-human spread, and transmission setting, became known over the course of the response.

Conclusion
The timeliness between initial alerts of early outbreak detection and key epidemiological evidence about the emerging threat reached far beyond the first warning for the global community. To improve on the best knowledge available for an immediate response, it is recommended that further gathering and documentation from event-based surveillance is engaged to create a more complete assessment for uncontrollable infectious disease outbreaks and epidemics. Enhanced EBS (through modern tools, e.g., Epidemic Intelligence from Open Sources (EIOS) are critical for timely detection and response to such events.
Three-dimensional digital anatomical measurements of pterygoid plates and posterior maxillary region
Authors: Kwon Dohyun , Kim Soung Min , Lee Jong-Ho 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
The posterior maxilla and skull base is a region with a complex anatomy. Accurate resection of the pterygoid plate is critical during a maxillectomy procedure. However, there is a paucity of functional and anatomical studies on the pterygoid plate and skull base. This study aimed to investigate functional anatomy of the pterygoid plate and its surrounding structures in the posterior maxilla to provide a better understanding of surgical procedures in this region.

Methods
3D software was used to measure 3D distances, angles, and areas of key anatomical landmarks on CT images of 100 hemifaces. Morphological classification of pterygoid plates was then performed.

Results
Results of comparing right and left pterygoid plates revealed no significant differences in dimensions or angles. Comparisons between sexes revealed that a few parameters were significantly different (P
< 0.01), including pterygoid height on the left side, distance from the zygomatico-maxillary buttress to the infraorbital fissure (Zy-IOF), and area of the left lateral pterygoid plate. The morphology of the lateral pterygoid plate was classified into four types based on the shape of the middle region: middle convex (42%), double concave (36%), flattened (10%), and middle concave (12%). The morphology of pterygoid plates was classified based on the divergence of medial and lateral pterygoid plates, with the narrow type (56%) being more common than the wide type in this study cohort.

Conclusions
This 3D digital anatomical study measured key landmarks for maxillary resection. Such measurement has never been reported. This anatomical study provides surgeons with information on the anatomy of the posterior maxilla and allows for safer and more accurate resection of the difficult-to-resect posterior maxilla.
BABINE: An original and user-friendly scale for the simple and quick management of herb-drug interactions in clinical practice
Authors: Cnudde Anthony , Allely Camille , Biset Natacha , Champy Pierre , Fouilhé Nathalie , Huret Fanny , Lawson Sibi , Mercan Aline , Noukela Noumi Doris Pascale , Michalet Serge , Montis Andrea , Pochet Stephanie , Schils Audrey , Tangeten Cecilia , Tod Michel , Van Antwerpen Pierre , Vervacke Audrey , Souard Florence 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
While more and more people tend to use herbal products thinking they are safer than conventional western medicine, the reality is other. If natural products are bio-active and possess potential therapeutic activities, then the benefit/risk balance should be considered like any other health product. Some herbs are known to have the potential to interact with patient’s treatment and to cause adverse drug reactions. While these are scarce, they are potentially harmful, and can lead to major sequels and even death in some cases. Despite these known facts, little guidelines about how to evaluate the risk of interaction and to handle them exist in literature. Notably, few scales allowing to assess the risk of a specific combination of herbs and drugs exist.

Method
We propose a new scoring method BABINE (Boosting Analysis of Bibliography for herb- drug INteraction Evaluation) and discuss a scale to evaluate this risk based on iterative rounds of experts’ discussion.

Results
After 6 rounds of case reports/clinical studies evaluation, we analyzed and synthesized criteria identified as important by the experts and developed a corresponding evaluation scale.

Conclusion
Even if our scale greatly simplifies pharmacological events, we believe it provides a robust and transparent way to rapidly assess the risk of adverse event.
Recommendations for the optimization of student led free vision screening programs
Authors: Devanathan Nirupama , Scheive Melanie , Selvam Amrish , Nawash Baraa S. , Murphy Alec , Morrow McKenna , Anant Shruti , Kruger Jessica S. , Yung Chi-Wah Rudy , Johnson Thomas V. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To report the summary characteristics of operational models associated with Student Led Free Vision Screening Programs (SLFVSP) and to identify opportunities for program optimization.

Methods
An 81-question mixed methods survey was distributed to SLFVSP leaders nationwide and Medical Student Educators within the American University Ophthalmology Professors (AUPO) Association. Survey responses were analyzed using Mann Whitney U and Fisher’s Exact tests. Themes considering the assets and liabilities of SLFVSPs were summarized using self-reported qualitative data from survey responses. Qualitative and quantitative themes considering were then synthesized into a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats (SWOT) analysis for a collective appraisal of SLFVSP operations. Finally, drivers were identified to generate change ideas to improve SLFVP operations through a collaborative, quality improvement model.

Results
A total of 16 survey responses were included from programs operational for a median of 6 years. Most respondent programs (n = 9) reported year-long operations; no preference between weekday (n = 8) and weekend (n = 7) screening activities was identified. Programs obtained funding from a diverse array of internal and external sources. There was no significant difference in wait time for scheduled appointments compared to a walk-in strategy; overall door-to-door visit times ranged from 15 min to 120 min. Screenings were held in several locations, most commonly in Federally Qualified Health Centers (n = 8) and religious centers (n = 6). Most screening event volunteers were first- and second-year medical students. The qualitative thematic analysis demonstrated that the most commonly self-reported asset was improving access to scarce vision screening services (n = 7) while the most commonly self-reported liability was difficulty recruiting faculty and/or resident for oversight (n = 5). The SWOT analysis revealed while the participant SLFVSPs were bolstered by site experience, community and corporate partnerships for glasses and space to hold vision screening, and institutional support from academic ophthalmology departments, limitations included difficulty with recruitment, space limitations, and poor follow-up care infrastructure.

Conclusion
Collaborative standardization of SLFVSP operations can promote targeted staff training, organizational stewardship, and consensus building to ensure SLFVSP can offer sustainable vision screening programs that build vision equity at the community level.
Training technical or non-technical skills: an arbitrary distinction? A scoping review
Authors: Gamborg Maria Louise , Salling Lisa Beicker , Rölfing Jan Duedal , Jensen Rune Dall 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Introduction
Medical education often aims to improve either technical skills (TS) or ‘non-technical skills’ (NTS) and how these skills influence adverse events and patient safety. The two skill sets are often investigated independently, and little is known about how TS and NTS influence each other. In this scoping review, we therefore aim to investigate the association between TS and NTS.

Method
We conducted a scoping review of four databases in order to summarize, analyse, and collate findings from the included studies.

Results
In total, 203 of 2676 identified studies were included in the final analysis. The first study was published in 1991, but the majority of studies were published in the last decade. The majority were intervention studies including 41 randomized controlled trials. The the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) was the most common assessment tool with strong validity evidence within TS, but many variations without validity evidence were used. Conversely, Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) was the most used tool with strong validity evidence for assessing NTS. However, the majority of studies used non-validated self-assessment tools to investigate NTS. The correlation between TS and NTS was assessed in 46 of 203 studies, whereof 40 found a positive correlation.

Discussion
Our findings echo previous literature suggesting that empirical literature investigating the interaction between TS and NTS lack methodological depth. In this review only a minority of the identified studies (n = 46) investigated this correlation. However, the results strongly indicate a correlation between TS and NTS skills, suggesting that physicians who are proficient in their NTS, also perform well on their TS. Thus, the distinction between them in learning designs may seem arbitrary. While this result is promising, the limited methodological rigour indicates a lack of proper understanding of NTS and how to properly assess them.
Views on the well-being of groups of informal caregivers. A cluster analysis using the example of Saxony
Authors: Tischendorf Tim , Geithner Silke , Schaal Tom 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
As a result of demographic change, a further increase in the number of people in need of care in Germany can be expected in the future. Nursing activities performed by family members are a central component of care provision. Providing care for people in need of care is increasingly associated with additional physical and psychological stress for informal caregivers. The aim of this study is to identify and characterize groups of informal caregivers with regard to their well-being.

Methodology
The empirical study was based on a cross-sectional survey on home care in Saxony from 2019, which was intended as exploratory work to provide insights into the care situation in Saxony. The central component is a two-step cluster analysis with exclusively informal caregivers.

Results
The net sample size for the cluster analysis comprised 178 subjects who were involved in caring for relatives. The cluster analysis revealed two groups of caregiving relatives in Saxony, which were differentiated by a different experience of stress and various sociodemographic factors.

Discussion
Informal caregivers in Saxony are not a homogeneous group. Depending on various sociodemographic factors or the care effort and situation, they are confronted with different challenges in caring for relatives, which are directly reflected in their well-being. In order to achieve a targeted reduction in the burden on family caregivers, cooperation and constructive collaboration between political decision-makers, care and health insurers, and the various players in health and care provision is required.
Evaluating the home-based intervention strategy (HIS-UK) to reduce new chlamydia infection among young men aged 16–25 years by promoting correct and consistent condom use: findings from a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Stone Nicole , Graham Cynthia , Bremner Stephen , McGrath Nuala , Bedford Rowena , Brown Katherine E , Newby Katie , Clarke Amanda , Jackson Louise , Morrison Leanne , Nadarzynski Tom , To Ye 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Correct and consistent condom use is the most effective method to reduce transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Objective
To compare the HIS-UK intervention to usual condom information and distribution care for effect on chlamydia test positivity.

Methods
Trial design A 3-parallel arm randomised controlled trial (1:1:1 allocation, two intervention arms vs. control). Randomisation using permuted blocks of varying lengths, with stratification by site, ethnicity and sexual-partnering risk. Repeated measures design with monthly follow-up to six months post-randomisation.
Setting Sexual health services in seven NHS Trusts and one university medical centre. Telephone and video consultations, online and in participants’ homes in England, UK.
Participants Target sample of 2231 men and people with penises, aged 16-25, at risk of STIs.
Intervention HIS-UK delivered (1) face-to-face by health professionals (proHIS) or (2) digitally (eHIS). Two-weeks self-practice and experimentation using the HIS-UK condom kit.
Primary health outcome Chlamydia test positivity by six-months.
Secondary outcomes Frequency of unprotected sexual intercourse, reported condom use errors and problems, attitudes and use experience.
Analyses Chlamydia test positivity by six months analysed by logistic regression. Secondary outcomes analysed using linear mixed effects models with fixed effects and a random effect for the repeated measures, and generalised estimating equations with a logit link, adjusting for fixed effects and specifying an autoregressive-1 correlation structure.

Results
Seven hundred twenty-five participants (proHIS:241, eHIS:243, control:241) randomised. 575 participants completed all baseline activities, 189 (32.9%) reached six-months post-randomisation. The absolute difference in chlamydia test positivity between arms was -4.9 percentage points at six months (7.9% HIS-UK, 12.8% control). The odds of chlamydia test positivity during follow-up were 55% lower for HIS-UK participants (p=.261).
HIS-UK showed a positive impact on recent condom use over time (p<.001). Significant reductions in condom errors and problems among HIS-UK participants were observed (p=.035). Lubricant use increased among HIS-UK participants, with evidence of an intervention-by-time interaction (p=.051), and a decline in poor condom fit and feel reports, but without intervention effect.

Conclusions
This study provides valuable insights into the potential of HIS-UK to enhance sexual health practices among at-risk populations at-risk of STI transmission.

Trial registration
ISRCTN registration: 11400820 (23/10/2019).
How to deliver person-centred care for people living with heart failure: a multi stakeholder interview study with patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals in Thailand
Authors: Giusti Alessandra , Pukrittayakamee Panate , Wannarit Kamonporn , Thongchot Lakkana , Janwanishstaporn Satit , Nkhoma Kennedy , Venkatapuram Sridhar , Harding Richard 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Context
Heart failure has high, growing global prevalence, morbidity and mortality, and is a leading cause of death with serious health-related suffering in low- and middle-income countries. Person-centred care (PCC) is a critical component of high-quality healthcare and is particularly vital in the context of a serious illness such as heart failure. However, there are limited data exploring PCC in this population in low- and middle-income settings.

Aim
The aim of this study was to explore how clinical services could respond to the PCC needs of individuals living with heart failure in Thailand, with potential for adaptation in other settings. The specific objectives were (i) to understand the experiences and needs of persons living with heart failure, their caregivers and HCPs; (ii) to explore specific practical actions that can help deliver PCC for heart failure patients in this setting.

Methods
Cross-sectional qualitative study. In depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted in Thailand with heart failure patients (n = 14), their caregivers (n = 10) and healthcare professionals (n = 12). Framework analysis was conducted with deductive coding to populate an a priori coding frame based on Santana et al’s PCC model (2018) and Giusti et al’s systematic review (2020), with further inductive coding of novel findings to expand the frame. The study is reported in accordance with the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research guidelines (COREQ).

Results
The findings reveal specific practice actions that deliver PCC for persons living with heart failure in Thailand, such as (i) compassionate communication by healthcare professionals; (ii) effective teamwork amongst multidisciplinary healthcare professionals; (iii) proactive responses to physical, psychosocial, relational and information needs of patients and caregivers; (iv) engaging patients and families in symptom management; (v) providing opportunities for patients to be cared for in the community; and (vi) responding to the social determinants of health, illness and healthcare access.

Conclusion
Person-centred healthcare systems must aim to address the social determinants of illness and place focus on community- and home-based care. Heart failure patients and caregivers must be supported to self-manage, including how to recognise symptoms and take appropriate action. Delivering PCC in such a way has the potential to improve outcomes for patients, enhance patients’ sense of agency and experiences of care, improve health equity, and reduce hospital admissions, relieving pressure on the hospital system and reducing overall costs of care.
Developing a theory of change to guide the design and implementation of a caregiver-centric support service
Authors: Wu Ling Ting , Glass George Frederick , Chew Esther Yin Hui , Ng Emmalene Joo Yong , Chan Ee Yuee 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Set against the backdrop of a rapidly ageing population and growing emphasis on the importance of ageing-in-place, family members often assume the role of a caregiver. Navigating through a complex healthcare system while simultaneously juggling the daily care needs of their care-recipients, caregivers often become worn out by the intense caregiver stress and burden, neglecting their own well-being. This translates to adverse health and economic outcomes such as prolonged hospital stays and increased nursing home placement of care-recipients. Seeking to better support caregivers, we developed a theory of change to guide the design and implementation of a caregiver support programme – Project Carer Matters.

Methods
We applied theory of change methodology to explain how the Project’s interventions were hypothesised to lead to their identified short-to-long term goals, drawing on a causal analysis based on available evidence. The theory of change was developed with insights garnered from previous research studies conducted on caregiver stress, stakeholder engagement sessions and multiple dialogues with clinical experts and hospital leaders.

Results
Our final theory of change is the result of the evaluation of the Project in its pilot phase. It is populated with the resources, activities and short-to-long term outcomes that can be attributed or linked to the Project. Multiple meetings and discussion with stakeholders over the pilot prompted frequent practice of the Plan, Do, Study, Act model to refine the ongoing implementation process and the theory of change itself.

Conclusions
A theory of change is essential in guiding the design, implementation and evaluation of a complex health care intervention such as Project Carer Matters. The development of the theory of change is a journey and not a resultant product. This journey has also led us to learn that 1) a theory of change needs to be dynamic and ever evolving with time and context, 2) the perspectives of relevant stakeholders need to be included in this process to ensure the feasibility and sustainability of the project in the long run and 3) frequent stakeholder engagements are essential in enabling the implementation team to fine-tune the Project in an effective manner.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05205135, registered on 24/01/2022.