bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Psychological Implications of Genital Vitiligo in a Thai Population
Authors: Yodtraiseevirat Tinnapat , Paringkarn Teerapat , Watchirakaeyoon Prameyuda , Kulthanan Kanokvalai , Chaiyabutr Chayada , Wongpraparut Chanisada , Silpa-archa Narumol 
Published: August 2024

Background: The understanding of genital vitiligo among Thai individuals is limited. Objectives: This study evaluated the clinical presentation, quality of life, and sexual health consequences of genital vitiligo. Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study involving vitiligo patients aged 18 years or older with past or present genital involvement was conducted at Siriraj Hospital. It also measured aspects of sexual health and quality of life. Results: The mean age of the 41 participants was 48.2 years, and 24 (58.5%) were males. All participants presented with genital vitiligo. In males, the penile shaft (45.8%), scrotum (45.8%), and glans (33.3%) were predominantly affected. In females, the mons pubis (64.7%), labia majora (23.5%), and labia minora (23.5%) were frequently involved. Both sexes reported afflictions in the pubic area (41.5%), inguinal region (36.6%), buttocks (34.1%), and oral mucosa (34.1%). Itching was the principal symptom in 26.8% of the patients. The median Dermatology Life Quality Index scores were significantly different (females 6, males 3.5). Compared with their male counterparts, females exhibited lower self-esteem (41.2% vs 29.2%), greater apprehension about marriage (11.8% vs 8.3%), and embarrassment about sexual activities (23.5% vs 16.7%). Remarkably, 65.9% of patients had not discussed their genital vitiligo with their doctors, and 51.2% of physicians had not inquired about or examined for genital involvement. Conclusions: Genital vitiligo adversely impacts quality of life and self-esteem, particularly among female patients. The lack of discourse between patients and physicians highlights a need for increased awareness and proactive clinical investigations to enhance patient care and satisfaction.
The association between sleep, mental health, and health behaviours: a Danish population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Damgaard Astrid J. , Sørensen Jes B. , Jensen Martin M. , Pedersen Pernille 
Published: August 2024

Aims: Sleep problems constitute a significant public health problem due to their high prevalence and impact on mental health and health behaviours, with major consequences for individuals and society. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between sleep problems (duration and quality), mental health and health behaviours. Methods: Cross-sectional data was derived from the 2021 health survey ‘How are you?’ from the Central Denmark Region. The study population was a stratified random sample of 33,925 respondents aged 16 years or older. We used logistic regression models to analyse the associations between sleep problems and indicators of mental health and health behaviour. The models were adjusted for sex, age, educational attainment, labour market attachment, cohabitation, and indicators of mental health and health behaviour. Results: A prevalence of around 10% for both short- and long sleep duration and poor sleep quality was found. All were associated with poor mental health-related quality of life, depression, stress, perceived stressors and obesity. In addition, short sleep duration was associated with daily smoking, and long sleep duration was associated with physical inactivity and daily smoking. Conclusions: Our findings revealed a stronger association between sleep problems and mental health indicators in comparison to health behaviours. We found that sleep duration and sleep quality in broad terms were associated with similar variables within mental health and health behaviour. These findings underline the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing sleep problems in the context of health promotion, disease prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.
Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy Use in the Femoro-Popliteal Segment: Considerations From an Expert Pan-European Panel Regarding Best-Care Practice
Authors: Saratzis Athanasios , Jane Messeder Sarah , Thulasidasan Narayanan , Alejandre Lafont Enrique , Bonvini Stefano , Bosiers Michel , Coscas Raphael , Davies Robert , Del Canto Peruyera Pablo , Elias Noory , Fazzini Stefano , Garriboli Luca , Goyault Gilles , Howard Dominic PJ , Huasen Bella , Isernia Giacomo , Lakshminarayan Raghu , Patel Ashish , Patel Rafiuddin , Patrone Lorenzo , Portou Mark , Rammos Christos , Ruffino Maria Antonella , Sirvent Marc , Sritharan Kaji , Vijaynagar Badri , von Stempel Conrad , Zanabili Amer 
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Produce expert recommendations regarding the optimal use of Shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) when treating femoro-popliteal steno-occlusive peripheral artery disease (PAD), guiding operators to use Shockwave IVL. Materials and Methods: A modified 3-step Delphi process was used to gain consensus surrounding preoperative/intraoperative/postoperative considerations when using Shockwave IVL for femoro-popliteal PAD. This included a structured survey, focus-group (with qualitative thematic analysis of views expressed), and final confirmatory round; participants were recruited across Europe including the United Kingdom/Switzerland. Results: Following a review to inform an online survey, 25 experts took part in a survey (5 European countries, 2023), followed by a focus-group (15 participants), 9 interviews, and final confirmatory round. A list of recommendations was prepared where at least moderate-level or high-level agreement was reached (≥70% participants agreeing). The recommendations relate to the optimal preoperative imaging, preoperative preparation(s), intraoperative imaging and use of adjuncts, as well as postoperative course, when using Shockwave IVL. Conclusion: A list of expert recommendations is provided guiding the optimal use of Shockwave IVL in femoro-popliteal PAD. This will help operators achieve better clinical outcomes. Clinical Impact This pan-European panel of experts using intravascular lithotripsy in routine peripheral arterial disease endovascular practice has provided important insights into best care practices before, during, and after such procedures. Several recommendations have been produced based on a structured consensus process to guide clinicians globally. This will improve and standardise the use of this technology in the femoro-popliteal arterial segment.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the relative safety and efficacy of treating lower extremity deep vein thrombosis via pharmacomechanical thrombectomy and catheter-directed thrombolysis
Authors: Tian Zhong , Han Hao , Tian Zhilong , Sun Pengcheng , Qin Ruihao , Yuan Fukang 
Published: August 2024

Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of pharmacomechanical thrombectomy and catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) as approaches to treating deep venous thrombosis of lower extremities (LEDVT). Methods The PubMed, Web of Science, Wanfang, Embase, Chinese Science and Technology Journal, Cochrane, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases were systematically searched for relevant articles published through October 2023, after which appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to screen out relevant articles. Review Manager 5.4.1 was used to extract key data from these studies, and pooled analyses were conducted based on mead difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR) values and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Trial registration This study has been registered at INPLASY.COM (No. INPLASY2023100075). Results In total, 31 relevant studies enrolling 2413 patients were included in this meta-analysis, with 1184 and 1229 patients in the AngioJet and CDT groups, respectively. These analyses revealed that the AngioJet group exhibited significantly higher rates of early postoperative deep vein patency (MD = 7.73, 95% CI (3.29, 12.17), p = .0006) and affected limb symptom improvement (MD = 6.31, 95% CI (1.82,10.80), p = .006) relative to the CDT group, whereas no differences in grade II or III thrombus clearance rates (OR = 1.30, 95% CI (0.95, 1.77), p = .10) or changes in thigh circumference before and after treatment (MD = 0.01, 95% CI (−0.80, 0.83), p = .97) were observed. The AngioJet group also exhibited lower urokinase doses (MD = −145.33, 95% CI (−164.28,126.38), p < .00001), shorter thrombolysis time (MD = −2.35, 95% CI(−2.80, −1.90), p < .00001), a less prolonged hospital stay (MD = −3.13, 95% CI(−3.81, −2.45), p < .00001), lower rates of PTS incidence (OR = 0.56, 95% CI(0.36, 0.88), p = .01), and reduced complication rates (OR = 0.51, 95% CI(0.31, 0.83), p = .0007). Conclusion Studies published to date suggest that relative to CDT treatment, pharmacomechanical thrombectomy is associated with improved thrombus clearance, fewer complications, and lower complication rates in LEDVT patients, underscoring the safety and efficacy of this therapeutic strategy.
Predictors of match performance in the South African Rugby Union Women's Premier Division
Authors: Sewry Nicola , MacMillan Candice , Maree Willie , Readhead Clint , Cantwell Lynne , Jordaan Esme , Swanevelder Sonja 
Published: August 2024

Purpose Performance indicators in women's rugby union are under-researched. The aim of this study was to describe the match activities and determine the predictors for winning/losing and points difference in the South African Rugby Union (SARU) Women's Premier Division competition. Methods During the 2021 and 2022 seasons, SARU-coded matches included 33 indicators (including attacking, defensive, set plays, and error categories) which were analysed for two outcome variables: winning/losing and points difference (points for MINUS points against). Results The results of the study showed that for winning compared to losing, tries (OR = 6.48; p = 0.0001), goal kicking success % (OR = 1.03; p = 0.0245), and dominant tackles % (OR = 1.45; p = 0.0333) increased the odds of winning, whilst yellow cards decreased the odds (OR = 0.27; p = 0.0199). For points difference, Factor 1 (OR = 1.016) including variables related to clean breaks, tries and conversions thereof, were predictive of a larger points difference, whilst Factor 6 (positive tackles, lineout wins; OR = 0.958) favoured a close match/smaller points difference. Conclusion The predictive indicators differed from those found in previous literature. However, there was little to no data available on women's rugby union to compare to, and therefore comparisons were made to men's rugby. More data and studies are required to confirm these findings.
What are the barriers to upper limb splint adherence, and how is adherence measured? A systematic review
Authors: Bamford Emma , Mawhinney Jamie A , Johnson Nick , Shelton Ian , Selby Anna , Drummond Avril 
Published: August 2024

Introduction Non-adherence to splint wearing following an upper limb traumatic injury is a significant medical issue. Optimal outcome following such injuries relies on people adhering to the prescribed splint, and a failure to do so can negatively impact outcome and increase healthcare burden and costs. This systematic review aims to compare and synthesise the evidence related to measuring adherence to wear recommendations and the barriers to splint wearing following upper limb trauma in adults. Methods Databases (EBSCO, PubMed, EMBASE and Science Direct) were systematically searched for articles that met the pre-agreed eligibility criteria between February and May 2023. Data on study characteristics and reported outcomes relating to measuring and quantifying splint adherence and barriers to adherence were extracted. Results A total of 16 articles were included for final review. Several methods were used to measure adherence, with no single tool used predominantly. These included patient or therapist reported data, preexisting classification systems and an electronic device. Methods used to quantify adherence was also heterogenous in nature, and a range of investigator and patient reported barriers to splint wearing were reported. Conclusion This review demonstrates heterogeneity in both classifying and measuring splint adherence, as well as in the barriers to splint wearing reported. Moving forward, using agreed measurement and reporting practices for splint adherence will enable researchers to complete high quality trials to determine splinting outcomes, and may ultimately enable health care professionals to improve adherence and, subsequently, outcomes in clinical practice.
Physical Activity Levels in Persons With Patellofemoral Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Sungwan , Wu Yin , Glaviano Neal R. , Pescatello Linda S. 
Published: August 2024

Context: Pain and symptoms of patellofemoral pain (PFP) are often exacerbated during daily activities, which may result in reduced overall physical activity levels. Objective: To summarize the evidence for physical activity levels among persons with PFP compared with pain-free controls. Data Sources: PubMed, Embase, CINHAL, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus were searched from January 1, 2000 to February 22, 2024. Study Selection: Peer-reviewed studies published in English that measured physical activity subjectively or objectively in persons with PFP and pain-free controls. Study Design: Systematic review with meta-analysis. Level of Evidence: Level 1. Data Extraction: Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% CI are reported based on Hedges’ g effect sizes. Results: From 23,745 records, 41 studies met the eligibility criteria. There was high-to-moderate-certainty evidence that persons with PFP reported higher physical activity levels compared with pain-free controls using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (SMD, 0.27; 95% CI 0.03, 0.51), whereas lower physical activity levels compared with pain-free controls using the Tegner Activity Scale (SMD, -0.31; 95% CI -0.57, -0.04). There was low-to-moderate-certainty evidence that there was no group difference in physical activity levels using the Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire (SMD, 0.17; 95% CI -0.09, 0.44) or self-reported sports participation duration (SMD, -0.46; 95% CI -0.98, 0.05). There was high-certainty evidence that runners with PFP reported shorter running distances compared with pain-free runners (SMD, -0.36, 95% CI -0.57, -0.14). No data pooling was possible for objectively measured physical activity levels due to device heterogeneity (ie, different algorithms used to quantify the intensity of physical activity). Conclusion: Self-reported physical activity levels among persons with PFP were inconsistent depending on the physical activity measurement tool used or which specific physical activity was measured. Clinicians should integrate multiple physical activity assessment tools to determine the extent to which PFP influences physical activity levels. Trial Registration: PROSPERO #CRD42022314598.
Eclampsia or epilepsy? The intriguing experiences of pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia and eclampsia: A descriptive exploratory study
Authors: Boakye Dorothy Serwaa , Amoah Vida Maame Kissiwaa , Amoah Christian , Boateng Agartha Afful , Aduomi-Botchwey Charles Owusu , Bamfo Florence , Boampong Jennifer 
Published: August 2024

Aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of pregnant women who suffer the stressful effects of preeclampsia and eclampsia through pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum. Methods: A descriptive exploratory approach was adopted to gather in-depth data from women diagnosed with preeclampsia and eclampsia during pregnancy from February to March 2022. Purposive sampling was used to enlist 12 participants from a Municipal Hospital in the Ahafo region of Ghana. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clark approach. Results: The study found that women had strong negative emotional reactions after being diagnosed with preeclampsia or eclampsia. They frequently felt guilty, angry, scared, in denial, or disbelief about their condition. Many women held mistaken beliefs about the diseases (they misconstrued eclampsia to be epilepsy) and isolated themselves, mainly because of false perceptions and stigma around their illness in the community. Participants expressed unfulfilled needs for informational and emotional support. The information they received about their condition was insufficient, contradictory, and confusing. Some women also felt pressured into having cesarean deliveries without enough discussion or say in the decision-making process. Conclusion: These findings reveal important psychosocial impacts of preeclampsia/eclampsia and gaps in condition-specific education and empathetic, patient-centered communication. Improving provider knowledge and counseling skills along with community awareness may help address these unmet needs among Ghanaian women facing this threat to maternal health.
The impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants
Authors: Mousavi Ezmareh Fariba , Bostani Khalesi Zahra , Jafarzadeh Kenarsari Fatemeh , Maroufizadeh Saman 
Published: August 2024

Background Maternal education is often linked to improved awareness. This study aimed to determine the impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants. Methods This quasi-experiment study involved 86 eligible women divided into two groups—intervention ( n = 43) and control ( n = 43)—using a multistage sampling method. A researcher-designed questionnaire collected demographic data from parents and infants. Education was delivered through a mobile phone application. Infant anthropometric indices (weight-for-age, length-for-age, and weight-for-length) were measured before and 3 months after the intervention. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests, paired t-tests, chi-square tests (or Cochran–Armitage tests), and analysis of covariance. Results The mean weight-for-age Z-scores of the infants in the intervention group were significantly different before (0.07 ± 0.52) and after the intervention (0.37 ± 0.53) ( p < .001), while this difference was not significant in the control group. The mean infant weight-for-length Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.09 ± 0.72) and after the intervention (0.29 ± 0.63) ( p = .015); however, in the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. The mean length-for-age Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.12 ± 0.68) and after the intervention (0.40 ± 0.76) ( p = .006). In contrast, in the control group, the mean length-for-age Z score after the intervention (−0.03 ± 0.84) decreased compared to that before the intervention (0.38 ± 0.75) ( p < .001). Conclusion The study demonstrated that educating mothers on complementary feeding through mobile phone applications positively impacted infant anthropometric indices. Healthcare providers are encouraged to use this educational approach to prevent infant growth disorders.
Pregnancy characteristics in Egyptian female patients with NMOSD
Authors: Gad Adel Hassanein , Kishk Nirmeen , Shalaby Nevin M , Heikal Eman Salah , Fouad Amr Mohamed , Merghany Nahla , Abdelghany Hend 
Published: August 2024

Background Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) primarily affects women of childbearing age. Objectives Studying the potential relationship between NMOSD and pregnancy characteristics and outcomes. Subjects and methods This is a retrospective cohort study that was conducted on 66 married female patients diagnosed with NMOSD. All patients underwent a thorough review of their demographic and clinical history through their medical records and personal interviews. Additionally, a complete neurological examination was performed, along with the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and a pregnancy registry questionnaire. Results After comparing married patients before and after disease onset, there was a significant increase in the number of abortions and the percentage of cesarean sections, as well as a decrease in the percentage of breastfeeding after disease onset. The p values were .02, <.001, and <.001, respectively, with odds ratios of 2.03, 5.13, and 6.17. Additionally, there was a rise in the occurrence of postpartum relapses, which accounted for 66% of all relapses after the disease onset. Most of these relapses (88.7%) occurred within the first 3 months postpartum. Conclusion Presence of NMOSD increased the percentage of miscarriage, delivery by cesarean section, and decreased the chance of breastfeeding. In addition, pregnancy increases NMOSD relapse and subsequent disability.
The Role of Human Capital Components in Gender Wage Inequality in India
Authors: Azad P. , Hari K. S. 
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the gender wage gap in the Indian labour market by analysing a range of human capital components, including education, work experience, cognitive and technical skills and occupational choices, using data from the India Human Development Survey 2011–2012. We employ the recentred influence functions (RIF) regression and Firpo, Fortin and Lemieux (FFL) decomposition techniques. The results from the RIF regression analysis underscore the significant role of education, work experience, skills and occupation in wage inequality. While education and English language proficiency lead to widening wage inequality for both men and women, the effects are much larger for the latter. Next, the FFL decomposition unveils a positive gender wage gap, indicating potential favourable returns for women’s qualifications and skills, yet it exposes a concerning wage structure effect suggesting women are often employed in lower-paying jobs. These results suggest that enhancing education and skills among women can be important tools in reducing gender wage inequality. JEL codes: E24, J24, J16