bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Is the LDL/HDL‐ Cholesterol Ratio a Better Risk Indicator for Coronary Heart Disease Than the TC/HDL‐Cholesterol Ratio?
Authors: Davis Errol , Huffman Fatma , Onuoha Egondu 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveIn a cross‐sectional study we examined total cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (TC/HDL) ratio and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL/HDL) ratio in 66 Foreign‐born Afro Caribbean (FBAC) living in the US for less than 10 years, 62 US‐born Afro Caribbean American (USBACA) and 61 African American (AA) adults (18‐40 years).ResultsMales had significantly (p<0.01) higher mean TC/HDL and LDL/HDL ratios than females (4.0 ± 1.2 vs. 3.5 ± 1.4) and (2.62 ±1.1 vs. 2.20 ± 1.2), respectively. There were no significant statistical differences between the groups with respect to mean TC/HDL or LDL/HDL ratios. Using the TC/HDL ratio (蠅 5.0, high risk) predicted 15.3% of individuals at risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) (18.7% males and 12.2% females) whereas, using LDL/HDL ratio (蠅 3.6, high risk) predicted 14.3% of individuals at risk of CHD (16.5% males and 12.2% females). Also, more USBAC than FBAC and AA participants had elevated TC/HDL ratio 蠅 5.0 (19.4% vs. 13.6% and 13.1%) and, elevated LDL/HDL 蠅 3.6 (19.4% vs. 13.6% and 9.8%), respectively.ConclusionAlthough there were small differences between the predictive function of TC/HDL and LDL/HDL between the genders and the ethnic groups, this was not significant. However, because of ease of use (TC and HDL are measured values vs. LDL which is calculated) and TC being better reflective of the total lipid profile, we would suggest that the TC/HDL‐Cholesterol ratio be used for prediction of CHD risk.Source of funding: Florida International University Foundation
Markers of Environmental Enteric Dysfunction (EED) are Associated with Neurodevelopment in Tanzanian Children
Authors: Etheredge Analee , Manji Karim , McDonald Christine , Kellogg Mark , Tran Hao , Gosselin Kerri , Gewirtz Andrew , Kisenge Rodrick , Aboud Said , Bellinger David , Fawzi Wafaie , Duggan Christopher 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundChildren with environmental enteric dysfunction (EED) are at increased risk for impaired growth and neurodevelopment. We conducted a study to evaluate novel biomarkers of gastrointestinal epithelial and barrier function associated with EED as predictors of neurodevelopment.MethodsBlood samples were obtained from 107 Tanzanian infants at 6 weeks and 6 months for assay of serum citrulline (CIT) and antibodies to LPS and flagellin. Neurodevelopmental testing (Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III) was conducted at 15 months of age.ResultsThe log odds of having a below‐median raw expressive language score (< 20) was increased by 1.66 (p=0.03) for every 1 unit increase (1‐UI) in LPS IgA at 6 weeks and by 0.19 (p=0.04) per 1‐UI in CIT at 12 months; log odds were decreased by 1.54 (p=0.02) per 1‐UI in flagellin IgG and by 0.16 (p=0.02) per 1‐UI in CIT at 6 months.ConclusionHigher levels of LPS‐IgA at 6 weeks and CIT at 12 months, and lower levels of flagellin‐IgG and CIT at 6 months were associated with below‐median language scores. Markers of intestinal permeability and absorption are indicators of neurodevelopmental sequelae in children at risk of EED.FundingNICHD (R01 HD048969; K24HD058795),Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (OPP1066203)
Impact of Eating Behaviors and Cravings on Gestational Weight Gain and Diet
Authors: Lopez‐Cepero Andrea , Leung K , Corvera S , Moore T , Rosal MC 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundGestational weight gain (GWG) above the Institute of Medicine guidelines is prevalent, and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and obesity. Food cravings and eating behaviors (i.e., cognitive restraint of eating, emotional eating) may influence diet during pregnancy and GWG.ObjectiveTo assess associations between cravings, eating behaviors, diet and GWG.Methods: Healthy pregnant women (N=94) enrolled in care <17 weeks gestation completed survey (demographics, Three Factor Eating Questionnaire, Food Craving Inventory), dietary (three 24‐hr recalls) and anthropometric assessments between 24‐34 weeks gestational age. GWG data were obtained from medical records. Analysis included binary and multivariate logistic regressions.Results: Participants' mean age was 28 (+5.1) years; they were 67% White, 28% Hispanic, 51% overweight/obese pre‐pregnancy, and 64% above‐guideline GWG. Sweet cravings were positively associated with, and cognitive restraint was negatively associated with, caloric intake, carbohydrates, fat and sugar sweets (p<0.03). Overall cravings and fast food cravings were positively associated with caloric and carbohydrate intake (p<0.03). Controlling for gestational age, pre‐pregnancy BMI and physical activity, emotional eating was associated with greater GWG (p=0.046) and there was a trend for a significant association between cognitive restraint and GWG. Neither cravings nor eating behaviors were associated with above‐guideline GWG.ConclusionsSelected cravings and eating behaviors were associated with diet, and emotional eating was associated with GWG. Further research of these associations could unveil potential intervention targets to optimize GWG.
An Intervention to Co‐package Zinc and Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) Improves Health Provider Prescription and Maternal Adherence to WHO‐recommended Diarrhea Treatment in Western Guatemala
Authors: Roche Marion , García Meza Rosario , Vossenaar Marieke 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundDiarrhea remains the second greatest cause of child morbidity and mortality in Guatemala, yet adherence to the WHO recommended treatment of Zinc (Zn) & ORS is low.ObjectiveWe evaluated the effectiveness of health‐facility‐level co‐packaging of Zn and ORS to improve health provider prescription practices and caregivers' adherence to the diarrhea treatment (2 days ORS; 10 days Zn) for children 2‐59 months of age in rural Guatemala.MethodsZn & ORS co‐packaging development was guided by social marketing and then evaluated in a community‐randomized intervention trial. The intervention group (IG) received Zn & ORS in a graphic co‐pack with instructions and provider messages for counseling in diarrhea treatment. The control group (CG) received normative care of Zn and ORS without co‐packaging or messages. Home‐monitoring of adherence was conducting at 5 and 10 days post‐prescription in 20 health posts in San Marcos, Province.ResultsHealth providers in the IG were more likely to dispense both medications than those of the CG (aOR: 2.3; 95%CI: 1.0, 5.4). IG mothers (n=123) were more likely to give the full 10 days of zinc (aOR:1.7; 95%CI; 1.0, 2.8) than CG mothers (n=138), and IG mothers provided 1 more day of Zn (p<0.01).ConclusionsThe co‐packaging intervention improved both the prescription practices and adherence to zinc. This innovation could improve diarrhea treatment in Guatemala and holds potential utility in other situations of combined therapies.Research SupportGrand Challenges Canada & Micronutrient Initiative
The Succinate Receptor Contributes to Obesity‐Induced Diabetes Type‐II and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Carmone Claudia , Robben Joris , van Diepen Janna , Ariza Ana , Devuyst Olivier , Stienstra Rinke , Deen Peter 
Published: June 2021

Cell stress leads to cellular release of mitochondrial succinate and activation of its receptor, the SUCNR1, in the renal macula densa is essential for DMI‐related renin release and hypertension. Obesity‐induced DMII and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) development is aggravated by hypertension and goes with cell stress in adipose/kidney tissue and macrophages, which express SUCNR1. Here we tested the role of SUCNR1 in obesity‐induced DMII and CKD. Wild‐type and SUCNR1‐/‐ mice fed for 16 weeks with a high fat diet (HFD) revealed a similar gain in total, adipose and kidney weight as compared to low fat diet (LFD) groups, but the gain was higher for liver and heart in wt than SUCNR1‐/‐ mice. Starving glucose levels were similarly increased in both HFD groups, but SUCNR1‐/‐ mice had a better glucose tolerance test response, indicating less insulin resistance in SUCNR1‐/‐ mice. For both HFD groups, blood sodium and urine volumes were similarly reduced, whereas GFR was similarly increased. Importantly, HFD wt mice showed albuminuria and glomerular/interstitial expression of collagen IV, indicative of fibrosis, which was not observed in HFD SUCNR1‐/‐ mice, nor LFD groups. Hypertensive patients and rodent models showed elevated urinary succinate levels, indicating that the renal SUCNR1 is activated in hypertension.Together, our data reveal that SUCNR1 activation contributes to obesity‐induced DM and CKD development and, if similar in humans, that SUCNR1 blockers may form novel therapeutics for the treatment of these common disorders.
Using Social Media as an Educational Tool: The Potential Role of Twitter in Enhancing the Student Learning Experience in Neuro/Anatomy
Authors: Hennessy Catherine , Border Scott 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundSince the rise in tuition fees the value of the student experience has become more important than ever. Difficult areas of medical degree programmes like neuroanatomy can often leave students feeling disengaged and unsupported. More recently the use of social media, such as Twitter has been used in higher education to increase engagement and offer a supportive online community for the learning of challenging subjects. At the University of Southampton, we incorporated the use of Twitter as a way of supporting students learning on a neuroanatomy module to see how it impacted upon their engagement and learning experience.AimsTo investigate if Twitter can be used to engage and support medical students while learning neuroanatomy and to identify how it is used by students.MethodThe nlm2soton hashtag was created and was displayed (via a widget) on the University's Virtual Learning Environment (Blackboard) for a cohort of 203 BM5 Year 2 medical students studying neuroanatomy. Student usage was tracked to measure levels of engagement throughout the course.Results62% of the cohort viewed the widget with on average 30 hits per day. A 16% increase in the widget's daily hits coincided with the January revision period. 33% of the cohort tweeted or favoured tweets which were themed as follows: Shared learning (29%), Morale boosts (28%), Questions (23%), Worries (16%) and Information (4%).ConclusionIncorporating the use of Twitter on this module was successful. Although only a third of students contributed their own tweets, almost two‐thirds of the cohort regularly monitored the feed for updates. Sharing learning tips and interestingly, contributions intended to raise spirits were the most common.
Effect of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation in Patients with Statin‐related Myalgia
Authors: Mazirka Pavel , Jones Eyone , Strachan Paul , McNurlan Margaret , Lawson William , Caso Giuseppe 
Published: June 2021

Statins (Hydroxy‐methylglutaryl CoA reductase inhibitors) are routinely prescribed to treat hypercholesterolemia because they inhibit endogenous cholesterol synthesis but in some patients their use is associated with increased incidence of myalgia and myopathic symptoms. Statins also inhibit the synthesis of CoQ10 and CoQ10 depletion may be a contributing factor to statin‐related myopathy.The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of supplementation with coQ10 to reduce muscle symptoms associated with statin use. In a randomized double‐blind placebo controlled trial, statin‐treated patients complaining of myopathic symptoms (i.e. pain, fatigue, weakness) were supplemented with coQ10 (ubiquinol, 300 mg/d) or placebo for 1 month. Muscle pain was assessed before and after supplementation with the validated Brief Pain Inventory, Short Form. Patients in the two groups were comparable for age (55±2 vs. 57±2 y), BMI (31±1 vs. 29±1), gender and statin use. After 1 month of supplementation, CoQ10 plasma levels were significantly elevated in patients treated with CoQ10 (P<0.001). The intensity of pain (i.e. Pain Severity Score, PSS) was significantly reduced both in the CoQ10 (3.78 ± 0.47 vs. 2.72 ± 0.56, n=19) and placebo (3.97 ± 0.39 vs. 1.99 ± 0.46, n=18) groups, P<0.01. However, the changes in PSS before and after intervention were comparable between the two groups. The results of the study suggest that in this population, improvement in statin‐related myalgia with supplementation with CoQ10 was not superior to placebo.Supported by NIH grants 5R21AT004204 and 5‐MO1‐RR‐10710. CoQ10 was kindly provided by Kaneka Corp. (Pasadena, TX)
Lipid Profile of Male Firefighters in a Northwest Austin Area Fire Department
Authors: Huang Jennifer , Forman Michele , Dong Kane , Pilles Kiona , Mangini Lauren , Stewart Jourdin , Permenter Traci , Bsaibes Stephanie , Hernandez Ladia 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of on‐duty mortality for firefighters since 1977. The primary objective of this project is to examine the distribution of lipids (total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and triglyceride (TG)) in firefighters by CVD risk factors.MethodsThis was a period cross‐sectional study over August and September 2013. Information on 56 male firefighters' demographics, medical history, and lipid profile were collected through self‐administered questionnaires and participants' fasting blood collection at their annual medical examinations. Multivariate generalized linear model was used to investigate the association between lipids and CVD risk factors (age, BMI, fasting blood glucose (FBG), smoker, and hypertension, etc).ResultsBased on the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel ‐ Adult Treatment Panel III, about 75% of the participants did not meet the recommended value for HDL‐C and LDL‐C while about 25% had elevated levels of TC and TG. Adjusting for age and CVD family history, both TC and LDL‐C were inversely associated with BMI and directly associated with FBG. TC was also directly associated with hypertension. HDL‐C was inversely associated with BMI and fat free mass under separate models. Lastly, TG was directly associated with fat free mass and hypertension.ConclusionThe lipid profile of most firefighters was higher than recommended levels. Traditional CVD risk factors, along with firefighting‐specific activities, should be considered in future wellness programs to help reduce on‐duty CVD events among firefighters.
Using the Socio‐Ecological Framework to determine Breastfeeding Obstacles in a Low‐income Population in Tijuana, Mexico: Individual Factors
Authors: Bueno‐Gutierrez Diana , Chantry Caroline 
Published: June 2021

BackgroundIn Mexico, breastfeeding rates are one of the lowest of Latin America, with 14.4% of infants under 6 months being exclusively breastfed. Our objective was to identify the main obstacles to breastfeeding in a low‐income population in Tijuana, Mexico. We assess individual factors in this study, which are those associated directly to the mother, infant and the 'mother‐infant dyad'.MethodsWe used a socio‐ecological framework to determine factors affecting breastfeeding practices. In four low‐income communities in Tijuana we conducted focus groups and interviews with mothers, fathers, grandparents, and key informants. Interview notes and focus group transcripts were then studied in depth independently by three researchers. The primary analytic technique was constant comparison.ResultsOne hundred twenty‐nine subjects participated in this study: six focus groups (n = 53) and 51 interviews among mothers, fathers, and grandparents, as well as 25 interviews among key informants. Main individual obstacles to breastfeeding were perception of inadequate milk, pain, aesthetics, lack of time, comfort, baby's dissatisfaction and breastfeeding maintenance difficulties. Socio‐structural factors such as the biomedical discourse about milk as a product interact with individual factors to impact breastfeeding behavior.ConclusionsThis study showed that women in low‐income communities in Tijuana face multiple obstacles to breastfeeding at the individual level. This information can help to develop culturally‐ appropriate educational material to promote breastfeeding. Additionally, institutional and social structural changes are needed in order to increase breastfeeding rates.
Functional Characterization of Three‐dimensional (3D) Human Liver Tissues Generated by an Automated Bioprinting Platform
Authors: Nguyen Deborah , Robbins Justin , Crogan‐Grundy Candace , Gorgen Vivian , Bangalore Preeti , Perusse Dean , Creasey Olivia , King Shelby , Lin Susan , Khatiwala Chirag , Halberstadt Craig , Presnell Sharon 
Published: June 2021

The lack of biological complexity and limited life span of conventional human hepatocyte culture models are major limitations in toxicological research. Recent advances in three‐dimensional (3D) monoculture and co‐culture systems show promise, but may suffer from the lack of reproducibility and spatial control. In this study, we generated 3D human liver tissue mimetics composed of parenchymal and non‐parenchymal cell populations using a proprietary automated 3D fabrication platform. The resulting liver tissues were well organized, containing junctional protein E‐Cadherin between hepatocytes, CD31+ endothelial cell networks and desmin‐positive quiescent stellates. The hepatocytes also demonstrated the ability to store both lipids and glycogen. The tissues actively secreted albumin, cholesterol, fibrinogen, and transferrin into the medium for six weeks. The 3D liver tissues expressed key Phase I enzymes CYP3A4, 2D6, 2B6, 1A2, and 2C9 over 28 days. Basal activity of CYP3A4, as evidenced by the conversion of midazolam to 4‐hydroxymidazolam, was detected throughout the 28 day culture period. In addition, exposure to rifampicin led to an increase in both CYP3A4 mRNA and activity, with 4‐fold induction still evident after 28 days in culture. The 3D liver tissues exhibited a clinically relevant injury response, evidenced by decreased overall viability, to published hepatotoxic agents such as Diclofenac and Troglitazone. These results demonstrate the potential utility of human 3D bioprinted liver tissues in drug discovery and development.This work was supported with internal funds
Pathological Changes in the Heart of the Strain CUX1 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Fletcher A , Raza F , Buursma J , Livingston S , Kearn D , Herndon B , Vanden Heauvel G , Baybutt R , Molteni A 
Published: June 2021

CUX1 is a transcriptional repressor gene in the network controlling G1‐S phase transition. It represses the expression of the cyclin kinase (CK1) inhibitors p21 and p27. Transgenic mice constitutively expressing CUX1 develop multiorgan damage consequent to aberrant p27 expression in the kidneys (polycystic), testes (diminished spermatogenesis), and liver (fibrosis). These mice also present severe pulmonary inflammation, vasculitis, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, and fibrosis. This study relates to the damage induced to the heart consequent to the CUX1 expression.H&E staining of the mice hearts showed extensive myocardial inflammation, interstitial edema, hemorrhages, and increased number of macrophages neutrophils, and lymphocytes. Clusters of myocardial fibers were intensively eosinophilic with nuclear pyknosis and karyolysis suggesting the development of infarctions. A semi‐quantitative evaluation of the histopathological damage made by two pathologists unaware of the slides identity, with damage graded on a scale from 5 (minimal) to 50 (very severe), reported an average value 6.28 + 2.99 for hearts of WTF (controls) vs 22.99 + 3.52 for hearts of CUX1 mice (P< 0.0001). Coronary arteries of the CUX1 mice had a trend indicating medial wall thickening and reduced lumen patency (68% vs 75% of WTF). This data indicates that the damage of the CUX1 mice is also extended to the heart. Additional studies are needed to establish whether such damage is consequent to that of the lungs or originates directly in the organ by p27 effect.
The Effects of a Community‐Based Multi‐lifestyle Intervention on CV Health in Rural Populations
Authors: Lee Kyuwan , DeVallance Evan , Fournier Sara , Brainard Carrie , White Emma , Miller Wayne , Petrone Ashley , Chantler Paul , Dino Geri 
Published: June 2021

The rate of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) mortality has decreased over the last few years. However, in rural areas, this reduction is less substantial compared to urban areas despite the effort to translate lifestyle intervention which was successful in urban areas. The purpose of this study is to use community‐based participatory research principles to conduct a pilot study to test the feasibility and acceptability of a lifestyle intervention in a rural community to improve CVD health.We assessed the feasibility and acceptability using retention and recruitment rate along with CV parameters i.e., Framingham risk score, 6‐min walk test, reactive hyperemia index, carotid thickness, and arterial stiffness, pre and post 10 week intervention.10 patients with CVD were screened with their family member, yielding 20 individuals screened (recruitment rate 59%). 17 patients were enrolled and retained (retention rate 100%). The 6‐min walk distance significantly (p=0.01) increased (1536±53 to 1651±55) with a tendency of improved HR and diastolic function represented by sub‐endocardial viability ratio after 10 wks intervention, although these parameters did not reach statistical significance. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the other CVD parameters. These findings provide valuable evidence to conduct lifestyle intervention for CVD patients in rural areas.
Internal Reliability Estimates of the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric Among New-to-Practice Nurses in a Simulated Setting
Authors: Cantrell Mary Ann , Mariani Bette , Lengetti Evelyn 
Published: June 2021

Abstract
Clinical judgment among new-to-practice nurses is critical for safe patient care. The Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric (LCJR) is a known instrument in undergraduate nursing education research. This study evaluated the internal consistency reliability and changes in the LCJR in a sample of 17 new-to-practice nurses in a simulated setting across four measurements. Cronbach’s alpha reliability for the LCJR was .90. Effect sizes (η2) ranged from .01 to .45, with only the reflecting subscale demonstrating an effect. Study team and study participants’ self-ratings on the LCJR were compared; team members’ ratings were significantly lower than participants’ self-ratings.
Nursing Academic Leadership: An Urgent Workforce Shortage in Nursing Education
Authors: Apen Lynette V. , Rosenblum Ruth , Solvason Nanette , Chan Garrett K. 
Published: June 2021

Abstract

AIM
The aim of the study was to describe the California nursing academic leader workforce shortage, identify succession planning activities, analyze driving and restraining forces of the role, and distinguish critical leadership competencies and onboarding strategies.

BACKGROUND
Several studies have projected a workforce shortage for nursing academic leaders and studied the leadership competencies and driving and restraining forces impacting the role.

METHOD
The study was a secondary descriptive analysis of an existing cross-sectional needs assessment survey administered to California nursing academic leaders of prelicensure programs.

RESULTS
The results validated an impending workforce shortage for California nurse academic leaders, with 66 percent planning to leave their positions in the next five years and 46 percent not having a succession plan in place.

CONCLUSION
To avoid threatening the success of nursing programs, a sustainable plan to address the workforce shortage of well-prepared academic nurse leaders is urgently needed.