bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Global Plasma Metabolomics to Identify Potential Biomarkers of Blood Pressure Progression
Authors: Lin Yi-Ting , Salihovic Samira , Fall Tove , Hammar Ulf , Ingelsson Erik , Ärnlöv Johan , Lind Lars , Sundström Johan 
Published: May 2020

Objective:
The pathophysiology of hypertension remains incompletely understood. We investigated associations of circulating metabolites with longitudinal blood pressure (BP) changes in the Prospective Investigation of the Vasculature in Uppsala Seniors cohort and validated the findings in the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men cohort.

Approach and Results:
Circulating metabolite levels were assessed with liquid- and gas-chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry among persons without BP-lowering medication at baseline. We studied associations of baseline levels of metabolites with changes in BP levels and the clinical BP stage between baseline and a follow-up examination 5 years later. In the discovery cohort, we investigated 504 individuals that contributed with 757 observations of paired BP measurements. The mean baseline systolic and diastolic BPs were 144 (19.7)/76 (9.7) mm Hg, and change in systolic and diastolic BPs were 3.7 (15.8)/−0.5 (8.6) mm Hg over 5 years. The metabolites associated with diastolic BP change were ceramide, triacylglycerol, total glycerolipids, oleic acid, and cholesterylester. No associations with longitudinal changes in systolic BP or BP stage were observed. Metabolites with similar structures to the 5 top findings in the discovery cohort were investigated in the validation cohort. Diacylglycerol (36:2) and monoacylglycerol (18:0), 2 glycerolipids, were associated with diastolic BP change in the validation cohort.

Conclusions:
Circulating baseline levels of ceramide, triacylglycerol, total glycerolipids, and oleic acid were positively associated with longitudinal diastolic BP change, whereas cholesterylester levels were inversely associated with longitudinal diastolic BP change. Two glycerolipids were validated in an independent cohort. These metabolites may point towards pathophysiological pathways of hypertension.
Prevalence of mental disorders among people who are homeless: An umbrella review
Authors: Hossain Md Mahbub , Sultana Abida , Tasnim Samia , Fan Qiping , Ma Ping , McKyer E Lisako J , Purohit Neetu 
Published: May 2020

Background: Homelessness is a major problem that critically impacts the mental health and well-being of the affected individuals. This umbrella review aimed to evaluate the current evidence on the prevalence of mental disorders among homeless people from evidence-based systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Methods: We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for umbrella reviews. We searched 12 major databases and additional sources to identify systematically conducted reviews and meta-analyses reporting the prevalence of mental disorders among homeless populations. Results: We evaluated 1,277 citations and found 15 reviews meeting our criteria. Most studies were conducted among high-income countries with samples from different age groups. Studies reported high prevalence rates of depressive and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, suicidal behavior, bipolar and mood disorders, neurocognitive disorders and other mental disorders among homeless people. Moreover, studies also reported a high burden of co-occurring mental and physical health problems among the homeless experiencing mental disorders. Conclusion: This umbrella review synthesized the current evidence on the epidemiological burden of mental disorders in homelessness. This evidence necessitates advanced research to explore psychosocial and epidemiological correlates and adopt multipronged interventions to prevent, identify and treat mental disorders among homeless populations.
Challenges and possibilities of developing cardiac surgery in a peripheral hospital of low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Tiwari Kaushal K , Grapsa Julia , Laudari Shankar , Pazdernik Michal , Vervoort Dominique 
Published: May 2020

Objective: Over a million cardiac surgeries are performed every year around the globe. However, approximately 93% of world population living in low- and middle-income countries have no access to cardiac surgery. The incidence of rheumatic and congenital heart disease is high in Nepal, while only 2,500-3,000 cardiac surgeries are performed annually. The aim of our study is to analyze challenges and opportunities of establishing a cardiac surgery program in a peripheral hospital of Nepal. Methods: We analyzed our effort to establish a cardiac surgery program in a peripheral hospital in Nepal. Results: Out of 2,659 consulted and diagnosed patients, we performed 85 open-heart surgeries in 4 years. Mean age of patients was 38.35 ± 14.13 years. The majority of patients were male (62.4% of patients) with 65.9% suffering from rheumatic heart disease. Average intensive care unit stay and hospital stay were 2.32 ± 1.1 and 8.29 ± 2.75 days, respectively. No in-hospital mortality was observed. Conclusion: We conclude that developing cardiac surgical care in a peripheral hospital of a developing country is feasible with support from government, foreign colleagues, local teams, and non-governmental organizations. The availability of a regular cardiac surgery service in the periphery of the country makes such services more accessible for the patients and helps in reducing the long waiting lists and unmanageable workload in the established cardiac centers in the capital city.
Holistic Nursing in Practice: Mindfulness-Based Yoga as an Intervention to Manage Stress and Burnout
Authors: Hilcove Kelly , Marceau Catherine , Thekdi Prachi , Larkey Linda , Brewer Melanie A. , Jones Kerry 
Published: May 2020

Purpose Effects of a mindfulness-based (MB) yoga practice on stress, burnout, and indicators of well-being among nurses and health care professionals (HCPs). Design A randomized controlled trial, 80 HCPs assigned to either MB yoga intervention or control group. Method The MB yoga intervention group ( n = 41) attended weekly yoga classes and practiced yoga independently. The control group ( n = 39) did not receive the yoga intervention. Study participants completed pre- and postintervention questionnaires, instruments included (a) Perceived Stress Scale; (b) Maslach Burnout Inventory; (c) Vitality subscale of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form–36; (d) Global Sleep Quality item, (e) Mindfulness Awareness Survey, and (f) subscale of the Brief Serenity Scale. Diurnal salivary cortisol and blood pressure were assessed pre and postintervention. Results Significant improvements ( p < .01) noted in MB yoga compared with control for self-reported factors, including stress (Perceived Stress Scale), burnout (Maslach Burnout Inventory), vitality (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form–36), sleep (GSQ), serenity/inner haven (IH), and mindfulness (Mindfulness Awareness Survey). Diurnal cortisol slopes and blood pressure were not significantly improved. Conclusion The MB yoga intervention had a statistically significant effect on the health and well-being of nurses and HCPs, most specifically for measures of stress; perceived stress, burnout, vitality, sleep quality, serenity, and mindfulness.
Foreign Direct Investment and Total Factor Productivity: Any Nexus?
Authors: Abdullah Mohammed , Chowdhury Murshed 
Published: May 2020

This study examines the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on the total factor productivity (TFP) of host countries. Extensions of the new growth theory provide a framework in which FDI increases the growth rate of a host country through technology transfer, diffusion and spillover effects. We construct four new series of TFP using the framework of neoclassical growth models. We also address the issue of endogeneity using the generalized method of moments. Our estimations using a balanced panel of 77 low- and middle-income countries suggest that FDI could not promote TFP in the countries studied. Our sensitivity analysis, in terms of alternative estimation methods, data, models and time period, reinforces the findings. We observe that the lack of absorptive capacity is likely to be an important reason for not having a direct relationship between FDI and TFP. JEL Classification: F21, F23, O33, F43, C33
Does Greater Creditor Protection Affect Firm Borrowings? Evidence from IBC
Authors: Jose Jibin , Herwadkar Snehal S. , Bilantu Prabal , Razak Shihas Abdul 
Published: May 2020

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) in India ushered in a new era of creditor-in-control regime with an in-built mechanism for time-bound resolution. This article examines the impact of the Code on firm borrowings and cost of funds. Using firm-level data on 4,531 firms for the period 2012–2018, we find that implementation of IBC has had many desirable consequences from a policy perspective. It helped in deleveraging of firms as their reliance on borrowings—whether long-term or short-term—declined. Further analysis suggests that this is especially true for weak and large firms. The stronger creditor protection is, thus, a step in the direction of reducing the burden on banks and further market deepening. JEL Classification: G32, G33, G38, D22, O16
Anti–Factor Xa Activity of Fixed-Dose Fondaparinux in Low-Body-Weight Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Wongcharoen Wanwarang , Tantisirivit Nualnit , Norasetthada Lalita , Gunaparn Siriluck , Phrommintikul Arintaya 
Published: May 2020

Background: Fixed-dose 2.5 mg of fondaparinux subcutaneous injection once daily has been recommended in treatment of non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) irrespective of body weight (BW). However, data on anti–factor Xa (anti-FXa) activity of fondaparinux are scarce in low-BW patients. Objective: We aimed to assess anti-FXa activity of fondaparinux in low-BW patients (BW < 50 kg) compared with normal-BW patients (BW ≥ 50 kg) who presented with NSTE-ACS. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study of patients with NSTE-ACS receiving fondaparinux. Anti-FXa activity was measured 4 hours after 2.5 mg subcutaneous injection of fondaparinux after the first 2 doses. Results: Among 87 enrolled patients, 18 (21%) had BW <50 kg. Patients in the low-BW group were older and had lower creatinine clearance. Median duration of fondaparinux therapy was 3 (IQR 2-4) days. Anti-FXa activity after the first dose of fondaparinux was similar between the low-BW and normal-BW groups (0.40 ± 0.15 vs 0.40 ± 0.17 mg/L, P = 0.914). However, anti-FXa activity after the second dose of fondaparinux was significantly higher in the low-BW group as compared with the normal-BW group (0.53 ± 0.10 vs 0.44 ± 0.16 mg/L, P = 0.011). Multivariate analysis showed that BW was the only independent factor that inversely correlated with anti-FXa activity. There was only 1 bleeding event during hospitalization in the normal-BW group and none in the low-BW group. Conclusion and Relevance: Anti-FXa activity of the second dose of fondaparinux was higher in low-BW patients but still within the expected range.
Acceptability of telehealth-delivered rehabilitation: Experiences and perspectives of people with traumatic brain injury and their carers
Authors: Rietdijk Rachael , Power Emma , Attard Michelle , Togher Leanne 
Published: May 2020

Introduction Communication skills training for people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their carers is recommended best practice. Delivery via telehealth could improve access to this training. This paper focuses on the acceptability of telehealth delivery of communication skills training. Methods A mixed-methods investigation of acceptability of telehealth to people with TBI and their carers was incorporated into a clinical trial. Thirty-six people with TBI (23 metropolitan and 13 regional) and their carers were recruited. Metropolitan participants were randomly allocated to telehealth or in-person intervention at a 1:3 ratio. Regional participants were allocated to telehealth. Telehealth and in-person participants were compared on retention, time to complete the programme, home practice completion and therapeutic alliance ratings. Participants completed semi-structured interviews regarding their views on telehealth, which were analysed using thematic analysis. Results There were no significant differences between telehealth and in-person participants in retention rate, time to complete the programme, degree of home practice completion or therapeutic alliance ratings. Three themes were identified: ‘telehealth delivery opens a window for access to rehabilitation in the context of my daily life’, ‘in-person delivery offers rehabilitation based on natural human interaction’ and ‘weighing telehealth against in-person delivery’. Discussion Participants found telehealth delivery acceptable, as indicated by the similarity between groups in the quantitative process measures, and as reported in interviews. Some reported a preference for in-person delivery if there had been a choice of delivery mode. Participants described characteristics of the two delivery modes which were relevant to their attitudes towards telehealth.
Assessment of the knowledge and perception of generic medications among pharmacy and medical students in the University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Sharif Suleiman I , Aldayeh Souad , Alsomali Huda , Hayat Fatmah 
Published: May 2020

Background Generic substitution has become a common practice in several countries, primarily because of a major cost-minimizing strategy without compromising healthcare quality. Objective The study was carried out to assess the knowledge and perception of generic medication among final year pharmacy and medical students in the University of Sharjah. Method A cross-sectional survey was designed, pre-validated, and distributed during the period of September to November 2019 in the University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The study research covered various aspects on knowledge and perception of generic medicines. It was distributed to 180 final year pharmacy and medicine students. Data were analyzed using SPSS, and Chi square test was used to determine the level of significance at p < 0.05. Result A total of 171 of 180 questionnaires were returned back including 87 and 84 surveys from pharmacy and medical students respectively producing a response rate of 95%. The majority of respondents in both collages were females, Arabs, and with parents of non-health care professions. Significantly more pharmacy than medical students agreed that cost-effective therapy and generics were covered in their study courses, generics are bioequivalent to brands and must contain the same amount of active ingredients like brands, that they are confident of their knowledge and more easily recall drugs by their generic names. Again more pharmacy students agreed that pharmacists should have the right to perform substitution but disagreed to the statement that generics takes longer time to produce therapeutic effects than brands. Conclusion Overall, Final-year students of pharmacy had better level of knowledge and perception of generic medicines and their right to perform generic substitution. Medical students seem to have limited knowledge of certain important aspects. Therefore, improvement of educational courses of future health-care professionals should be implemented early to enhance students’ awareness toward generic substitution.
Demonstration of reciprocal diurnal variation in human serum T3 and rT3 concentration demonstrated by mass spectrometric analysis and establishment of thyroid hormone reference intervals
Authors: Sun Qian , Avallone Lívia , Stolze Brian , Araque Katherine A. , Özarda Yesim , Jonklaas Jacqueline , Parikh Toral , Welsh Kerry , Masika Likhona , Soldin Steven J. 
Published: May 2020

Background: There has been a wide range of reference intervals proposed in previous literature for thyroid hormones due to large between-assay variability of immunoassays, as well as lack of correction for collection time. We provided the diurnal reference intervals for five thyroid hormones, namely total thyroxine (TT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and reverse T3 (rT3), measured in serum samples of healthy participants using a liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. Methods: Couplet serum samples (a.m. and p.m.) were collected from 110 healthy females and 49 healthy males. Healthy volunteers were recruited from four participating centers between 2016 and 2018. Measurements of thyroid hormones were obtained by LC-MS/MS analysis. Results: Our study revealed significant uptrend in AM to PM FT4 ( p < 0.0001) samples, downtrend in AM to PM TT3 ( p = 0.0004) and FT3 samples ( p < 0.0001), and AM to PM uptrend in rT3 samples ( p < 0.0001). No difference was observed for TT4 between AM and PM. No significant sex differences were seen for any of the five thyroid hormones. Conclusion: When diagnosing thyroid disorders, it is important to have accurate measurement of thyroid hormones, and to acknowledge the diurnal fluctuation found, especially for FT3. Our study highlights the importance of standardization of collection times and implementation of LC-MS/MS in thyroid hormone measurement.
Rectal duplication in an adult cat: a novel transanal surgical approach
Authors: Carbonell Buj Elena , Billet Jean-Philippe , Vanel Maïa , Caron Alexandre 
Published: May 2020

Case summary A 3-year and 8-month-old male entire European domestic shorthair cat was presented with a history of recurrent rectal prolapse, straining and pain when defaecating. Previous non-surgical and surgical treatments had not provided a satisfactory result. Rectal prolapse had recurred within 2 weeks of treatment. Upon clinical examination, an intraluminal mass could be palpated rectally. A CT scan examination revealed the mass was of a cystic nature and the cyst was surgically excised via a transanal approach. On histological evaluation, the cyst walls consisted of three of the layers of normal rectum: mucosa, muscularis of the mucosa and submucosa. These findings led to the definite diagnosis of rectal duplication. Relevance and novel information Enteric duplication is among the differential diagnoses for straining and rectal prolapse in cats. This condition has previously been discussed in the veterinary literature, with a single case report describing a rectal duplication in a cat. In that particular case, the authors described a perineal surgical approach. Here we present a novel approach whereby the duplicated material was excised transanally in order to limit intra- and postoperative morbidity. The clinical outcome was excellent in our case, with complete resolution of clinical signs and no recurrence 18 months after surgery.
Exon skipping of TGFβRI affects signalling and ECM expression in hypertrophic scar-derived fibroblasts
Authors: Raktoe Rajiv S , Rietveld Marion H , Out-Luiting Jacoba J , Kruithof-de Julio Marianna , van Zuijlen Paul PM , van Doorn Remco , Ghalbzouri Abdoelwaheb El 
Published: May 2020

Background: In burn patients, wound healing is often accompanied by hypertrophic scar (HS) development, resulting in both functional and aesthetic problems. HSs are characterised by abundant presence of myofibroblasts that contribute to overproduction of extracellular matrix (ECM) that is regulated by the TGF-β signalling pathway. Studies have shown that inhibition of TGF-β receptors in fibrotic diseases reduces the fibrotic load. In the present study, we aim to inactivate ALK5, also known as TGF-β receptor I, in human HS fibroblasts by exon skipping using antisense oligonucleotides (AONs). Methods: HS biopsies were used to isolate and set up fibroblast monocultures. AONs targeting ALK5 were supplemented to the fibroblast cultures to induce exon skipping, while pharmacological ALK5 inhibition was induced using SB431542. AON delivery in HS fibroblasts was examined using immunofluorescence (IF), while TGF-β signalling downstream targets, such as Smad2/3, PAI-1, ACTA2, COL1A1 and COL3A1, were analysed using touchdown polymerase chain reaction (PCR), quantitative PCR (qPCR), IF or western blotting. Results: Our data clearly demonstrate that AONs were successfully delivered in the nuclei of HS fibroblasts and that functional exon skipping of ALK5 took place as confirmed with touchdown PCR and qPCR. In addition, exon skipping affected the expression of ECM-related genes, such as type I/III collagens, PAI-1 and CCN2. Moreover, AON treatment did not affect the migration of HS fibroblasts in a model for wound healing. Conclusion: Exon skipping is a promising tool to modulate the TGF-β signalling pathway in HS. This would open a therapeutic window for the treatment of patients suffering from HSs.
Minimally Invasive Anterior Longitudinal Ligament Release for Anterior Column Realignment
Authors: Godzik Jakub , Pereira Bernardo de Andrada , Hemphill Courtney , Walker Corey T. , Wewel Joshua T. , Turner Jay D. , Uribe Juan S. 
Published: May 2020

Study Design: Review of the literature. Objectives: Anterior column realignment (ACR) is a powerful but relatively new minimally invasive technique for deformity correction. The purpose of this study is to provide a literature review of the ACR surgical technique, reported outcomes, and future directions. Methods: A review of the literature was performed regarding the ACR technique. A review of patients at our single center who underwent ACR was performed, with illustrative cases selected to demonstrate basic and nuanced aspects of the technique. Results: Clinical and cadaveric studies report increases in segmental lordosis in the lumbar spine by 73%, approximately 10° to 33°, depending on the degree of posterior osteotomy and lordosis of the hyperlordosis interbody spacer. These corrections have been found to be associated with a similar risk profile compared with traditional surgical options, including a 30% to 43% risk of proximal junctional kyphosis in early studies. Conclusions: ACR represents a powerful technique in the minimally invasive spinal surgeon’s toolbox for treatment of complex adult spinal deformity. The technique is capable of significant sagittal plane correction; however, future research is necessary to ascertain the safety profile and long-term durability of ACR.