bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Implementation of national policies and interventions (WHO Best Buys) for non-communicable disease prevention and control in Ghana: a mixed methods analysis
Authors: Baatiema Leonard , Sanuade Olutobi Adekunle , Kretchy Irene Akwo , Okoibhole Lydia , Kushitor Sandra Boatemaa , Haghparast-Bidgoli Hassan , Awuah Raphael Baffour , Amon Samuel , Mensah Sedzro Kojo , Grijalva-Eternod Carlos S. , Adjaye-Gbewonyo Kafui , Antwi Publa , Jennings Hannah Maria , Arhinful Daniel Kojo , Aikins Moses , Koram Kwadwo , Blandford Ann , Fottrell Edward 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) encourages all member states to adopt and implement a package of essential evidence-based interventions called the Best Buys to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). To date, little is known about the implementation of national policies and interventions for NCD control in the WHO member states in sub-Saharan Africa. Our study aimed to evaluate the implementation of national policies and interventions (WHO Best Buys) for non-communicable disease prevention and control in Ghana.

Methods
This was explanatory mixed methods research which started with a document review of Ghana’s WHO Best Buys scores from the 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020 and 2022 WHO NCD Progress Monitor Reports. Thereafter, we conducted 25 key informant interviews and one focus group discussion (11 participants) with key policymakers and stakeholders in the NCD landscape in Ghana to understand the implementation of the NCD policies and interventions, and the policy implementation gaps and challenges faced. Data from the NCD Progress reports were presented using mean scores whilst the qualitative data was analysed thematically.

Results
Ghana has shown some advancements in the implementation of the WHO Best Buys measures. Ghana’s implementation scores for 2015, 2017, 2020 and 2022 were 5.0, 9.0, 5.0 and 5.5 respectively, against the mean implementation scores of 7.6/19 for lower-middle-income countries and 9.5/19 for upper-middle-income countries. Efforts to decrease major risk factors such as excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy diet have been progressing slowly. The most common challenges were related to a) the role of socio-cultural factors, b) stakeholder engagement, c) enforcement and implementation of public health policies, d) implementation guidelines, e) public awareness and education on NCDs, f) financing of NCD prevention and control, g) curative-centered health systems, and h) over-centralization of NCD care.

Conclusion
Ghana has made progress in adopting the WHO Best Buys targeting risk factors of NCDs. However, the country faces contextual barriers to effective implementation. With the retrogression of some measures over time despite making progress in some earlier years, further investigation is needed to identify facilitators for sustained implementation of the WHO Best Buys interventions.
Insecticide-impregnated dog collars for the control of visceral leishmaniasis: evaluation of the susceptibility of field Lutzomyia longipalpis populations to deltamethrin
Authors: de Sousa Félix de Lima Mayra , Albuquerque e Silva Rafaella , de Almeida Rocha Douglas , de Oliveira Mosqueira Gabriela , Gurgel-Gonçalves Rodrigo , Takashi Obara Marcos 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a zoonotic disease caused by Leishmania infantum and transmitted by the sand fly Lutzomyia longipalpis. Dogs are the major domestic reservoir of L. infantum. To prevent the spread of the disease, dog collars impregnated with 4% deltamethrin have been effectively used in VL endemic areas. However, this approach may contribute to the emergence of insecticide resistance in sand flies. Therefore, it is important to characterize the susceptibility of different populations of Lu. longipalpis to deltamethrin in areas where insecticide-impregnated dog collars are used.

Methods
Six field sand fly populations from Brazil were exposed to deltamethrin in CDC bottle bioassays at the diagnostic doses (DD) of 21.9 μg/bottle and 30 μg/bottle. For the dose–response (DR) experiments, doses of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 μg/bottle of deltamethrin were used to impregnate bottles; control group bottles were impregnated with acetone only. Each bottle contained an average of 20 sand flies, both male and female, and they were exposed to either deltamethrin or acetone for 60 min.

Results
Based on the DD of 21.9 μg/bottle, three populations were susceptible to deltamethrin. In contrast, two populations collected from the states of Ceará and Minas Gerais exhibited mortality rates of 94.9% and 95.7%, indicating possible resistance, and one population from the state of Ceará showed resistance, with a mortality rate of 87.1%. At the DD of 30 μg/bottle, two populations from the states of Ceará and Piauí showed possible resistance, while the other four populations were susceptible. The resistance ratio (RR50) ranged from 2.27 to 0.54, and RR95 ranged from 4.18 to 0.33, indicating a low resistance intensity.

Conclusions
This study established a DD for Lu. longipalpis using the CDC bottle bioassay. We found that Lu. longipalpis populations in three Brazilian states where insecticide-impregnated dog collars were used for VL control were susceptible to deltamethrin. However, one population in Ceará State was classified as resistant to deltamethrin. These results contribute to the current knowledge on sand fly resistance and surveillance, and highlight the need for a better understanding of the resistance mechanisms of Lu. longipalpis in areas where insecticide-impregnated dog collars have been widely used.

Graphical Abstract
Endoparasites of peritoneal organs and skeletal muscles of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) in Germany
Authors: Bisterfeld Katrin , Raulf Marie-Kristin , Waindok Patrick , Springer Andrea , Lang Johannes , Lierz Michael , Siebert Ursula , Strube Christina 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
For several decades, the European wildcat (Felis silvestris) has gradually been returning to the forests of Germany, mainly in the central and southwestern regions. To increase the knowledge about this threatened species, the endoparasite status of dead found specimens from Germany was surveyed.

Methods
A total of 118 wildcats were examined for endoparasites in peritoneal organs and skeletal muscles. Owing to decomposition or incomplete carcasses, 104 gastrointestinal tracts (stomachs and intestines), 101 livers with gallbladders, 99 urinary bladders, as well as kidneys of 95 and skeletal muscles of 112 specimens were available for examination. All detected parasites were identified morphologically to genus or species level, followed by molecular examinations of one to ten specimens of each parasite species.

Results
Overall endoparasite prevalence in peritoneal organs was 99.0% (103/104). Among the 99.0% (103/104) infected gastrointestinal tracts, the most frequent species were Toxocara cati (95.2% [99/104]), Hydatigera kamiyai (84.6% [88/104]), Mesocestoides litteratus (69.2% [72/104]), Strongyloides spp. (58.7% [61/104]), Cylicospirura petrowi (37.5% [39/104]), Ancylostoma tubaeforme (31.7% [33/104]), Capillaria putorii (24.0% [25/104]), and Echinococcus multilocularis (18.3% [19/104]). In 77.8% (77/99) of the urinary bladders, Capillaria plica and/or Capillaria feliscati were detected. Moreover, the liver fluke Metorchis bilis occurred in 2.0% (2/101) of the livers, and roundworm larvae (presumably Toxocara spp.) were detected in 33.0% (37/112) of the muscle samples.

Conclusions
These results show a broad spectrum of endoparasite species infecting European wildcats in Germany. It might be assumed that some of the endoparasites could pose a risk to domestic cats (Felis catus) and humans through spillover events, or may be transmitted from domestic cats to the free-ranging population, posing a potential risk to wildcats.

Graphical Abstract
Predicting life-threatening hemoptysis in traumatic pulmonary parenchymal injury using computed tomography semi-automated lung volume quantification
Authors: Tang Wen-Ruei , Chang Chao-Chun , Wu Chen-Yu , Wang Chih-Jung , Yang Tsung-Han , Hung Kuo-Shu , Liu Yi-Sheng , Lin Chia-Ying , Yen Yi-Ting 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Objectives
Chest computed tomography (CT) can diagnose and assess the severity of pulmonary contusions. However, in cases of severe lung contusion, the total lung volume ratio may not accurately predict severity. This study investigated the association between life-threatening hemoptysis and chest CT imaging data on arrival at the emergency department in patients with pulmonary contusions or lacerations due to blunt chest injury.

Methods
The records of 277 patients with lung contusions or lacerations treated at a trauma center between 2018 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. The ratio of the local lung contusion volume to lobe volume in each lobe was calculated from chest CT images. The maximal ratio in the Hounsfield unit (HU) range was defined as the highest ratio value within the HU range among five lobes.

Results
The median patient age was 41 years, and 68.6% were male. Life-threatening hemoptysis occurred in 39 patients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the maximal ratio at −500 HU to 100 HU was 96.52%. The cutoff value was 45.49%. Multivariate analysis showed a high maximal chest CT ratio ≥ 45.49% at −500 HU to 100 HU (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 104.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.81–502.16, p < 0.001), hemopneumothorax (aOR: 5.18, 95% CI: 1.25–21.47, p = 0.023), and chest abbreviated injury scale (AIS, aOR: 5.58, 95% CI: 1.68–18.57, p = 0.005) were associated with life-threatening hemoptysis.

Conclusions
Maximal chest CT ratios ≥ 45.49% at −500 HU to 100 HU, hemopneumothorax, and high chest AIS scores are associated with life-threatening hemoptysis in patients with blunt chest trauma.

Critical relevance statement
The present study provides an objective index derived from chest CT images to predict the occurrence of life-threatening hemoptysis. This information helps screen high-risk patients in need of more intensive monitoring for early intervention to improve outcomes.

Key Points

Emergency department CT helps predict life-threatening hemoptysis in patients with lung contusions.

Maximal CT ratios ≥ 45.49% (−500 HU to 100 HU, either lung lobe) are associated with life-threatening hemoptysis.

High chest abbreviated injury scale scores and hemopneumothorax also predict life-threatening hemoptysis.

Graphical Abstract
Multimodality deep learning radiomics predicts pathological response after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yunsong , Wang Yi , Hu Xinyang , Wang Xin , Xue Liyan , Pang Qingsong , Zhang Huan , Ma Zeliang , Deng Heping , Yang Zhaoyang , Sun Xujie , Men Yu , Ye Feng , Men Kuo , Qin Jianjun , Bi Nan , Zhang Jing , Wang Qifeng , Hui Zhouguang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Objectives
This study aimed to develop and validate a deep-learning radiomics model using CT, T2, and DWI images for predicting pathological complete response (pCR) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT).

Materials and methods
Patients with ESCC undergoing nCRT followed by surgery were retrospectively enrolled from three institutions and divided into training and testing cohorts. Both traditional and deep-learning radiomics features were extracted from pre-treatment CT, T2, and DWI. Multiple radiomics models were developed, both single modality and integrated, using machine learning algorithms. The models’ performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, with the area under the curve (AUC) as a primary metric, alongside sensitivity and specificity from the cut-off analysis.

Results
The study involved 151 patients, among whom 63 achieved pCR. The training cohort consisted of 89 patients from Institution 1 (median age 62, 73 males) and the testing cohort included 52 patients from Institution 2 (median age 62, 41 males), and 10 in a clinical trial from Institution 3 (median age 69, 9 males). The integrated model, combining traditional and deep learning radiomics features from CT, T2, and DWI, demonstrated the best performance with an AUC of 0.868 (95% CI: 0.766–0.959), sensitivity of 88% (95% CI: 73.9–100), and specificity of 78.4% (95% CI: 63.6–90.2) in the testing cohort. This model outperformed single-modality models and the clinical model.

Conclusion
A multimodality deep learning radiomics model, utilizing CT, T2, and DWI images, was developed and validated for accurately predicting pCR of ESCC following nCRT.

Critical relevance statement
Our research demonstrates the satisfactory predictive value of multimodality deep learning radiomics for the response of nCRT in ESCC and provides a potentially helpful tool for personalized treatment including organ preservation strategy.

Key Points

After neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, patients with ESCC have pCR rates of about 40%.

The multimodality deep learning radiomics model, could predict pCR after nCRT with high accuracy.

The multimodality radiomics can be helpful in personalized treatment of esophageal cancer.

Graphical Abstract
Unveiling the role of Pleckstrin-2 in tumor progression and immune modulation: insights from a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis with focus on lung cancer
Authors: Yin Enzhi , Liu Chengming , Yao Yuxin , Luo Yuejun , Yang Yaning , Tang Xiaoya , Zheng Sufei , Tian Linyan , He Jie 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCancer remains a leading cause of mortality globally, highlighting the need for novel biomarkers to enhance prognosis and therapeutic strategies. Pleckstrin-2 (PLEK2), a member of the pleckstrin family, has been implicated in processes critical to tumor progression, but its role across cancers remains underexplored. This study systematically examined the expression patterns, prognostic relevance, and functional impact of PLEK2 across multiple cancer types. Using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype Tissue Expression Project (GTEx), and the Human Protein Atlas, we analyzed PLEK2 expression in both cancerous and normal tissues, revealing significant overexpression of PLEK2 in various cancers at the mRNA and protein levels. Single-cell RNA sequencing further indicated predominant expression of PLEK2 in tumor cells and macrophages within the tumor microenvironment. Survival analysis demonstrated that elevated PLEK2 expression correlated with poor prognosis in specific cancers, though its impact varied across cancer types. Functional assays showed that PLEK2 knockdown inhibited proliferation and migration in human cancer cell lines. In vivo studies using a Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) model confirmed that PLEK2 knockdown suppressed tumor growth and enhanced the efficacy of PD-1 immunotherapy. Mechanistically, PLEK2 knockdown was associated with reduced AKT pathway activation, diminished tumor-associated macrophage infiltration, and increased CD8 T cell presence. Compounds like Navitoclax were also identified as potential PLEK2 inhibitors. In conclusion, PLEK2 played a multifaceted role in cancer progression and immune response modulation. Targeting PLEK2 might suppress tumor growth and overcome immunotherapy resistance, offering a promising biomarker and therapeutic target to improve cancer treatment outcomes.
Predictors for improvement in personality functioning during outpatient psychotherapy: A machine learning approach within a psychodynamic psychotherapy sample
Authors: Dönnhoff I. , Kindermann D. , Stahl-Toyota S. , Nowak J. , Orth M. , Friederich H.-C. , Nikendei C. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Since its introduction in the diagnostic manuals DSM-5 and ICD-11, the construct of personality functioning has gained increasing attention. However, it remains unclear which factors might predict improvement in personality functioning.

Methods
We examined a sample of 648 completed psychodynamic psychotherapies conducted by 172 therapists at the Heidelberg Institute for Psychotherapy. A machine learning approach was used to filter for variables that are relevant for the prediction of the improvement of personality functioning from a broad data set of variables collected at the beginning of each psychodynamic psychotherapy.

Results
On average, we found an improvement of 0.24 (SD = 0.48) in the OPD-SQ. This corresponds to a medium effect in the improvement of personality functioning. Patients with initially high impairment experienced particularly large improvements. Overall, we found a large number of variables that proved to be predictive for the improvement of personality functioning. Limitations in social activity due to physical and emotional problems proved to be one of the most important predictors of improvement. Most of the effect sizes were small.

Conclusions
Overall, the improvement in personality functioning during psychotherapy is determined more by the sum of a large number of small effects than by individual variables. In particular, variables that capture social areas of life proved to be robust predictors.
Despair and Voter Turnout in the United States
Authors: Franko William , Pacheco Julianna 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Context: Deaths of despair, a term used to capture rising mortality rates among Americans who appear to be suffering from growing mental and physical distress, have received added attention from those seeking to understand this disturbing trend. Yet it is unclear how, if at all, despair influences the political behavior of the people and communities where it is most prominent. The authors contribute to the health and politics literature by examining whether personal and community-level despair shapes political participation.
Methods: The authors examine the relationship between despair and voter turnout using novel data at both the aggregate and individual levels. First, a custom survey is used to test whether despair is associated with individual-level voter participation in several recent elections. Second, a new measure of community despair is developed at the county level that spans nearly 20 years to assess whether there is a relationship between despair and voter turnout in U.S counties.
Findings: The results suggest that higher levels of despair lead to lower turnout rates at both the individual and community levels.
Conclusions: This study suggests that the effects of experiencing despair are far reaching and shape political behavior among individuals and within communities.
Embracing Controversy: A Second Look at CDC Reform Efforts in the Wake of COVID-19
Authors: Keller Ann C. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Addressing criticism that the agency's Covid-19 response was lacking, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has proposed internal agency reforms intended to improve its performance during the next pandemic. They are aimed at improving surveillance and analytic capacity and agency communications. This essay, via a counterfactual analysis of the CDC's proposed reforms, asks how, if completed in advance of Covid-19, they might have changed outcomes in four cases of guidance controversy during the pandemic. CDC planned reforms, though they have merit, are predicated on the ability to come to “scientific closure” in a highly charged political environment. To improve outcomes in a future pandemic, the agency should consider how it plans to communicate with the public when recovering from error and when addressing controversy spurred by criticism from credible experts. However, the ability of future presidents to limit CDC performance and communications in the next pandemic and the lack of political consensus around the value of independent public health expertise threaten the agency's reform goals.
Reduced Lower Body Muscular Strength and Endurance among Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: SLÁMA TOMÁŠ , NIGG CARINA , KURMANN RETO D. , KUSTER GABRIELA M. , POKU NANA K. , SCHELER EVA , KUEHNI CLAUDIA E. , VON DER WEID NICOLAS X. , SCHINDERA CHRISTINA 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Impaired physical fitness is a possible late effect among adult survivors of childhood cancer (ASCC). Our study describes lower body muscular strength and endurance among ASCC using the 1-min sit-to-stand (1-min STS) test, compares them with the general population, identifies risk factors, and describes changes over time.

Methods
In a prospective multicenter cohort study, we invited ASCC ≥18 yr of age at study who were diagnosed between ages 0 and 20 yr, treated in five pediatric oncology centers across Switzerland from 1976 to 2017, and survived ≥5 yr for a 1-min STS test. We collected information about lifestyle, medical history, and previous cancer treatment. Using population-based Swiss reference values, we calculated age- and sex-adjusted z-scores for 1-min STS performance and assessed the association between risk factors and 1-min STS test using multivariable linear regression. We fitted a multilevel linear model to describe the longitudinal course of 1-min STS performance.

Results
We included 338 CCS of 1048 invited ASCC (participation rate 32%) with a median age at study of 34 yr (interquartile range, 26–41 yr). Compared with the general population, mean 1-min STS z-score was half a standard deviation lower (−0.52; 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.64 to −0.40). Obesity (B = −0.56; 95% CI, −0.97 to −0.16), cumulative cisplatin dose (B = −0.12; 95% CI, −0.21 to −0.02), and cumulative cranial radiotherapy dose (B = −0.10; 95% CI, −0.19 to −0.01) were associated with reduced 1-min STS performance. There was no change in 1-min STS z-scores over time (B = 0.02; 95% CI, −0.05 to 0.09).

Conclusions
We found evidence for reduced lower body strength and endurance among ASCC, suggesting the need for counseling and effective training and rehabilitation programs for maintaining daily functioning, improving cardiovascular health, and reducing morbidity for ASCC.
Fabry Disease - literature review
Authors: Wdowiak Krystian , Maciocha Agnieszka , Wąż Julia , Witas Aleksandra , Muzyka Adrian , Rydzek Julia , Gardocka Ewa 
Published: November 2024

Introduction and objective: Fabry disease (FD) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder that can manifest in classical and atypical forms, with the latter being more common. It results from deficient alpha-galactosidase activity, leading to the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3), causing inflammation, cellular damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction. The aim of this publication is to discuss various aspects of Fabry disease based on the latest literature.
Review Methods: The PubMed database was searched for scientific articles where the terms "Fabry disease" or "FD" appear in the title, abstract, or keywords. The focus was on articles published between 2017 and 2024, although in some cases, older sources were consulted when more recent data was lacking.Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: The Fabry disease occurs with a frequency between 1:40,000 and 1:117,000 live male births. Symptoms include proteinuria, kidney failure, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, valve defects, peripheral neuropathy, and gastrointestinal issues. The disease affects life expectancy, primarily due to cardiovascular complications. Early diagnosis is often delayed due to non-specific symptoms, and prognosis tends to be worse in males. Current treatments include enzyme replacement therapy (ERT), chaperone therapy with migalastat, and second-generation ERT.Summary: Given the rarity of Fabry disease, research is limited, and there is a need for more studies to explore novel therapeutic options that could improve patient quality of life and mitigate the disease's complications.