bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Arterial function is preserved in successfully treated patients with psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Merzel Šabović Eva Klara , Kraner Šumenjak Tadeja , Božič Mijovski Mojca , Janić Miodrag 
Published: October 2024

Introduction Endothelial dysfunction is an early precursor of atherosclerosis and is common in patients with psoriasis, presumably primarily due to psoriasis-related inflammation. We investigated endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and circulating markers of endothelial activation in young patients with psoriasis vulgaris of varying severity, all of whom were effectively treated achieving PASI 90. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 80 patients (54 men/26 women, 30–45 years) who were effectively treated with topical therapy, methotrexate, adalimumab, secukinumab or guselkumab, and 20 healthy controls. Endothelial dysfunction was measured by flow-mediated dilation and arterial stiffness was measured by pulse wave velocity and common carotid artery stiffness. The following circulating biomarkers of endothelial activation were measured: ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E- and P-selectin, GDF-15, and TRAIL. Results Endothelial function and arterial stiffness parameters did not differ between patients with effectively treated psoriasis and the control group. Circulating endothelial activation biomarkers did not show relevant differences between the groups of effectively treated patients or controls. Discussion Although cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with psoriasis, effective antipsoriatic treatment appears to slow the progression of atherosclerosis, even when there are cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking or obesity. This may suggest that antipsoriatic treatment exerts a cardioprotective effect. Conclusions Our results suggest that early and effective treatment of varying-severity psoriasis vulgaris in young patients appears to prevent arterial dysfunction related to psoriasis and consequent cardiovascular risk. The study is registered at http://clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT05957120).
Autonomic nervous system activity correlates with peak experiences induced by DMT and predicts increases in well-being
Authors: Bonnelle Valerie , Feilding Amanda , Rosas Fernando E , Nutt David J , Carhart-Harris Robin L , Timmermann Christopher 
Published: October 2024

Background: Non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by psychedelics can be accompanied by so-called “peak experiences,” characterized at the emotional level by their intensity and positive valence. These experiences are strong predictors of positive outcomes following psychedelic-assisted therapy, and it is therefore important to better understand their biology. Despite growing evidence that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays an important role in mediating emotional experiences, its involvement in the psychedelic experience is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent changes in the relative influence of the sympathetic (SNS) and parasympathetic nervous systems (PNS) over cardiac activity may reflect the subjective experience induced by the short-acting psychedelic N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Methods: We derived measures of SNS and PNS activity from the electrocardiograms of 17 participants (11 males, mean age = 33.8 years, SD = 8.3) while they received either DMT or placebo. Results: Results show that the joint influence of SNS and PNS (“sympathovagal coactivation”) over cardiac activity was positively related to participants’ ratings of “Spiritual Experience” and “Insightfulness” during the DMT experience, while also being related to improved well-being scores 2 weeks after the session. In addition, we found that the state of balance between the two ANS branches (“sympathovagal balance”) before DMT injection predicted scores of “Insightfulness” during the DMT experience, as well as subsequent sympathovagal coactivation. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the involvement of the ANS in psychedelic-induced peak experiences and may pave the way to the development of biofeedback-based tools to enhance psychedelic therapy.
What Makes the Time Tradeoff Tick? A Sociopsychological Explanation
Authors: Stalmeier Peep F. M. , Roudijk Bram 
Published: October 2024

Background A theoretical interpretation of factors influencing time tradeoff (TTO) scores is lacking. In this conceptual study, we use a sociopsychological theory, terror management theory (TMT), to explain how death thoughts may play a role in the TTO method. TMT describes how respondents suppress death thoughts by invoking psychological defenses, such as self-esteem, and by bolstering cultural values. Research Question What is the relation between TMT and TTO scores? Methods A framework is developed to link TMT to TTO scores. Predictions of the framework pertain to the directionality of relations between characteristics (e.g., being religious) affecting TTO scores. These predictions are then tested against the findings in the literature. Results The value “prolonging life” can be used as a linking pin between TTO and TMT as it is relevant for both TMT and TTO. It is argued that the value “prolonging life” is related to TTO scores but also to TMT defense strengths. Thus, TMT defense strengths become associated with trading. Directionality predictions of the framework were confirmed in 34 out of 39 retrospective tests ( P < 0.001). Conclusion Directionalities of relations between TTO scores and socioeconomic characteristics, euthanasia, subjective life expectancy, and religion were explained in terms of TMT defense strengths. Our framework offers a theory-based and parsimonious framework to think about characteristics influencing TTO scores. Highlights Terror management theory (TMT) is a sociopsychological theory about death thoughts. Several factors are known to influence TTO scores. A new framework applies TMT to TTO scores to interpret such factors. Our framework is mostly of importance to health economists studying the TTO.
The effect of Clot Burden Score on clinical outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients with atrial fibrillation treated with endovascular thrombectomy
Authors: He Ruqian , Zhang Yongyin , Jin RuiFang , Huang Xuerong , Shu Hao 
Published: October 2024

Background The Clot Burden Score (CBS) is used to assess thrombus length. The influence of CBS on functional outcome was barely analyzed in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with atrial fibrillation (AF). Purpose To assess the association between CBS and clinical outcomes in large vessel occlusion (LVO)-related patients with AF who have undergone endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). Material and Methods A total of 160 patients with AF were enrolled between January 2021 and April 2023. The CTA-CBS score was used to quantify the thrombus burden. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score at 90 days. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify prognostic predictors and determine the correlation between CTA-CBS and clinical outcomes. Results In the multivariable logistic regression, younger age, smaller clots, and better collateral status were the favorable prognosis factors. The odds ratios (OR) were 0.956 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.924–0.988, P = 0.008), 1.29 (95% CI = 1.110–1.499, P < 0.001), and 1.706 (95% CI = 1.065–2.731, P = 0.026), respectively. A smaller clot correlated with better outcomes OR of 1.29 (95% CI = 1.110–1.499, P < 0.001) for the entire cohort, 1.395 (95% CI = 1.142–1.702, P < 0.001) for bridging the EVT subgroup, and 1.171 (95% CI = 0.866–1.582, P = 0.305) for direct EVT subgroup. Conclusions In LVO-related AIS patients with AF treated with EVT, lower CBS is associated with poorer functional outcomes. Notably, CBS acts as a prognostic imaging biomarker in the direct EVT subgroup and does not in bridging the EVT subgroup.
Increased extracellular free water is related to white matter hyperintensity burden
Authors: Lei Xinjun , Qiu Weiwen , Xu Zhihua , Yu Jie , Lan Haiyuan 
Published: October 2024

Background Extracellular free water (FW) has important roles in the occurrence and development of white matter hyperintensity (WMH). Purpose To explore the correlations between FW and WMH burden. Material and Methods A prospective analysis was conducted using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data from 126 individuals. WMH burden was determined based on WMH volumes and Fazekas scores from deep and periventricular white matter hyperintensity (DWMH and PWMH, respectively) in fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images. FW values were taken from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Results Univariate analysis showed that FW values were correlated with WMH burden, including WMH volumes and DWMH and PWMH Fazekas scores ( P < 0.05). After multivariate analysis, FW values were correlated with WMH volumes and DWMH and PWMH Fazekas scores when adjusted for age and hypertension ( P < 0.05). Conclusion Using MRI, increasing extracellular FW was related to WMH burden.
Evaluation of the reliability and accuracy of MRI for the diagnosis of meniscal ramp lesions
Authors: Escoda Menéndez Sara , García González Pedro , Meana Morís Ana Rosa , Del Valle Soto Miguel , Maestro Fernández Antonio 
Published: October 2024

Background Meniscal ramp lesions are a special type of meniscal injury that affects the periphery of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus and/or its meniscocapsular attachments, strongly associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Due to their location, these lesions can be missed arthroscopically so it is essential to diagnose them on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Purpose To evaluate the accuracy of MRI in detecting meniscal ramp lesions in patients with ACL tears using arthroscopy as the reference standard. Material and Methods Two musculoskeletal radiologists, blinded to the surgical findings, retrospectively and independently evaluated 106 knee MRI scans for the presence of meniscal ramp lesions in non-consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic ACL reconstruction between January 2019 and July 2022 by a single surgeon at one institution. Having arthroscopy as reference, the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity as well as the positive and negative predictive values (PPV/NPV) of the MRI scans were calculated. Cohen's kappa coefficient was used to test inter-observer reliability. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results In the study group of 106 patients (72 men, 34 women; mean age = 33.84 ±13.12 years), 76 had an arthroscopy-confirmed meniscal ramp lesion, while 30 did not. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI for the detection of meniscal ramp lesion were 88% and 87%, respectively. The PPV and NPV were 94% and 74%, respectively. Inter-rater reliability was excellent (k = 0915). Conclusion This study demonstrates that MRI can accurately detect meniscal ramp lesions.
Assessment of pediatric breast ultrasound less is more: a practical imaging approach
Authors: Giannotti Elisabetta , Sun Rachel , Healy Nuala , Kilburn-Toppin Fleur , Sofia Carmelo , Lee Andrew HS , Marino Maria Adele 
Published: October 2024

Background Breast cancer in pediatric patients is rare, but ultrasound (US) is widely utilized for symptomatic cases. Purpose To determine biopsy and cancer detection rates of pediatric patients and to assess if breast US can be omitted. Material and Methods A retrospective review of a 5-year period was conducted of single-center breast US performed in patients aged <19 years. Data regarding presentation, clinical opinion (P1–5 score), and US (U1–5 score) were collected. If biopsy or surgery was performed, pathology was reviewed (B1–5 score). Results In total, 579 patients were included (19 boys, 560 girls; mean age=16.2±1.9 years; age range=0–18 years). Clinical examination was normal or benign (P1/P2) in all boys (100%) and 557/560 (99.5%) girls, and P3 in 3 (0.5%) girls. Of US, 52% demonstrated normal findings (U1) for both sexes (300/579); in the remaining cases, the most frequent findings were gynecomastia in 12/19 boys and well-defined breast masses in 208/560 girls. Of the 560 girls, 6 (1%) underwent US-guided biopsy, with final histology of fibroadenoma (B2) in all cases, while 27 (5%) had a surgical excision, with final histology of fibroadenoma (22/27, 81.5%), hamartoma (2/27, 7.4%), benign phyllodes tumor (2/27, 7.4%), and angiomyxoma skin lesion (1/27, 3.7%). No malignant lesions were diagnosed at the time of clinical referral or during the 18-month follow-up in patients with a well-defined mass on US. Conclusion Breast malignancy is extremely rare in pediatric population. US can be safely omitted if clinical examination is normal; this approach would have avoided breast US in 52% of patients in this study.
Marx and the Big Mac: An Empirical Exploration of Marx’s Exploitation Theory for Introductory Economics Courses
Authors: Perry Teresa 
Published: October 2024

Undergraduate economics courses have low relevance, belonging, and growth mindset levels. For instance, Bayer et al. found that less than 30 percent of the students in their sample strongly agreed with the statement “The class gave me a useful framework for thinking about important issues.” Integrating pluralist methodologies into introductory economics classes may be one solution for overcoming this issue. This article introduces an empirical activity designed to teach students about Marx’s theory of exploitation. The activity utilizes the 10-K annual report from a publicly traded company, in this case, McDonald’s, to analyze the rate of exploitation of workers. Through this exercise, students delve into the theory of exploitation, analyze data from the 10-K, calculate the rate of exploitation, and engage in discussions about its application to contemporary social and political issues. JEL Classification: A22, P16, B24
What Psychiatrists Should Know About Prescribed Safer Opioid Supply
Authors: Bahji Anees , Danilewitz Marlon , Sachdev Arushi , Mathew Nickie , Lamba Wiplove , Rafizadeh Reza , Chopra Nitin , Dhaliwal Arash , George Tony P. , Crockford David , Primeau Valerie , Tibbo Philip , Buckley Leslie , Tanguay Robert 
Published: October 2024

In this invited commentary, we provide an overview of safer opioid supply (SOS) initiatives, specifically aiming to examine the evidence base for SOS programs and the ensuing implications for clinical practice, particularly in the context of psychiatric care. Plain Language Summary Title What Psychiatrists Should Know About Prescribed Safer Opioid Supply
Parental Involvement in the Care of Hospitalized Children: A Qualitative Study in the Tamale Metropolis
Authors: Abdulai Feruza , Nachinab Gilbert Ti-enkawol , Abdulai Abdul-Malik , Asumah Mubarick Nungbaso 
Published: October 2024

Introduction There is a growing appreciation that parents play a critical part in promoting the health outcomes of their hospitalized sick children. This is because parents want to be involved in the care of their children to allay parental anxiety and promote cooperation from children. After all, children feel insecure in an unfamiliar environment. Objective The main objective of the study was to gain a deeper understanding of parental involvement and experiences in the care of hospitalized sick children in Tamale Metropolis. Methods A descriptive exploratory design with a qualitative approach was used for the study. Thirteen parents of sick children on admission at the children’s unit of the Tamale Metropolis were interviewed for the study. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis (TA). Results The study revealed that participants in the study demonstrated basic knowledge and understanding of parental involvement in the care of hospitalized sick children and shared some of the benefits of parental involvement as improved interaction with health workers, healthier and happier children as well as promoting the early detection of the signs and symptoms of illnesses in children on admission. Some of the barriers to parental involvement include language barriers, poor communication between healthcare providers and parents, financial challenges and institutional challenges. Many participants also reported that sources of parental involvement were the media and healthcare workers. Conclusions Findings from the study indicate that the majority of participants have a fundamental idea about parental involvement. To improve parental involvement in the care of sick children, stakeholders must engender a collective approach that sensitizes the general public and health workers toward acceptance and incorporation into healthcare delivery.
Framing the future: Ensuring vulnerable island communities are engaged
Authors: Cutler Natalie A , Rumsey Michele , Chang Odille , Motofaga Silina , Millard Julie 
Published: October 2024

Objective Statements such as the Bridgetown Declaration1 serve as a wake-up call for action to address the significant mental health needs in small island developing states. Overarching frameworks and action plans have been developed to support nations to promote mental health and build resilience for their populations in the region, and while these frameworks and action plans provide direction, translating them into grassroots change can be a challenge. At the Creating Futures 23 conference, delegates from the Oceania region were invited to participate in a plenary workshop entitled Framing the Future. Three questions were posed for workshop participants to respond to in relation to their perceived priorities, opportunities and innovations to support mental health in their local communities. This paper provides a summary of the workshop participants’ responses. Conclusion Community-led innovations, with programs tailored for small island communities, were seen as grassroots solutions in the Oceania region. Engagement with small island communities by policy makers and leaders was considered essential for effective, sustainable and community-led mental health initiatives to realise the objectives of high-level, overarching frameworks and action plans.
From Diagnosis to Survivorship: How the Tumor Boards Facilitation Forum (TEFF) Shapes the Breast Cancer Journey in Pakistan
Authors: Shaukat Fatima , Farhan Kanza , Shahid Nayab , Anwar Zainab , Dar Marrium S. 
Published: October 2024

Background: Breast cancer is a widespread and fatal disease that impacts millions of individuals globally. Pakistan has seen a notable rise in both incidence and mortality rates, ranking among the highest globally alongside the Solomon Islands. The WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) strives to decrease global mortality by 2.5% annually, emphasizing the need for awareness campaigns to educate women about the disease. Purpose: Tumor boards serve as essential interdisciplinary platforms for discussing intricate cancer cases. Nevertheless, Pakistan’s health care system encounters obstacles in delivering oncology care due to limited resources. In response, the Tumor Boards Facilitation Forum (TEFF) was established to support tumor boards within the public sector. TEFF actively promotes cancer awareness and education during Pinktober through diverse initiatives. Among these is the Self-Breast Examination workshop for students, which educates them on self-examination techniques and the significance of prompt action in identifying breast cancer symptoms. Additionally, TEFF organizes yoga activities for health care professionals, advocating for holistic well-being. Collaborating with non-profit organizations like Shine Humanity, TEFF hosts awareness camps and coordinates a scarf donation drive for cancer survivors. Furthermore, TEFF arranges breast cancer awareness walks and encourages fundraising through charity events. Conclusion: In summary, breast cancer presents a significant challenge in Pakistan, necessitating immediate action through initiatives like GBCI and TEFF to raise awareness, enhance early detection, and provide comprehensive care. These efforts promote community engagement, foster connections among survivors, and empower individuals. By uniting our efforts, we can reduce the incidence of breast cancer, improve patient outcomes, and ensure comprehensive care for all affected individuals. This article aims to underscore the crucial role of tumor boards in Pakistan in enhancing awareness and education among women regarding breast cancer.
Influencing Factors of Urinary Iodine Concentration Before and After Radioiodine Therapy for Differentiated Thyroid Cancer: An Initial Exploration of the Relationship With Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Liu Qian , Zhou Huan , Xia Yuxiao , Huang Ying , Liu Lina , Jiang Xue , Shi Yuhong 
Published: October 2024

Objective To investigate the impact of urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and post-stimulatory thyroglobulin (ps-Tg) levels on the therapeutic efficacy of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients after initial radioiodine therapy, and to analyze the validity of these indicators as prognostic factors. Methods A total of 213 DTC patients received initial radioiodine therapy from June 2022 to September 2023. Demographic data and UIC were collected before and after therapy. Thyrotropin, thyroglobulin (Tg), and thyroglobulin antibody levels were assessed. Iodine uptake rate was measured, and therapeutic efficacy was evaluated 6 months post-therapy. Statistical tests were used for data comparison, and logistic regression analysis for response factors. Results Post-therapy UIC and pre-post UIC difference were significantly correlated with Tg levels but not with reaching excellent response (ER) indicated by suppression of Tg levels below 0.2 ug/L. Ps-Tg levels related to therapeutic efficacy, while UIC did not correlate with outcomes. ROC curve analysis found optimal ps-Tg cut-off points for the low-intermediate and high-risk groups classified by primary tumor size, invasion, metastasis, and pathological type. Conclusion Post-treatment UIC and pre-post UIC difference correlate with ps-Tg levels. Ps-Tg levels are an associated factor for DTC, but UIC changes, despite correlation with ps-Tg, are not significantly related to outcomes and cannot be used as a prognostic factor.