bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bacterial pathogens and antimicrobial susceptibility in ocular infections: A study at Boru-Meda General Hospital, Dessie, Ethiopia
Authors: Asfaw Tegegne , Metaferia Yeshi , Weldehanna Endalkachew Gebretsadik , Weldehanna Daniel Gebretsadik 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Introduction
The eye consists of both internal and external compartments. Several variables, including microbes, dust, and high temperatures can cause eye illnesses that can result in blindness. Bacterial eye infections continue to be a major cause of ocular morbidity and blindness, and their prevalence is periodically rising. The objective of the study was to detect bacterial pathogens and assess their susceptibility profiles to antibiotics in the ophthalmology unit of Boru-meda Hospital in Dessie, Ethiopia.

Methods
A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to April 30, 2021, among 319 study participants with symptomatic ocular or peri-ocular infections who were enrolled using a consecutive sampling technique. After proper specimen collection, the specimen was immediately inoculated with chocolate, blood, and MacConkey agar. After pure colonies were obtained, they were identified using standard microbiological methods. The Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method was used to test antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, based on the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute.

Results
The majority of participants developed conjunctivitis 126 (39.5%), followed by blepharitis 47 (14.73%), and dacryocystitis 45 (14.1%). Overall, 164 (51.4%) participants were culture positive, six (1.9%) participants had mixed bacterial isolates, giving a total of 170 bacterial isolates with an isolation rate of 53.3%. The predominant species was CoNS 47 (27.6%), followed by S. aureus 38 (22.4%) and Moraxella species 32 (18.8%). The overall Multi-Drug Resistance (MDR) rate was 62.9%, with 33 (44.6%) being gram-negative and 74 (77.1%) being gram-positive isolates.

Conclusion
Conjunctivitis was the dominant clinical case and CoNS, was the predominant isolate. A higher rate of MDR isolates, particularly gram-positive ones, was observed. Efficient peri-ocular or ocular bacterial infection surveillance, including microbiological laboratory data, is necessary for monitoring disease trends.
The genetic differences between types 1 and 2 in von Hippel-Lindau syndrome: comprehensive meta-analysis
Authors: Azimi Fatemeh , Naseripour Masood , Aghajani Ali , Kasraei Hengameh , Chaibakhsh Samira 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease are at risk of developing tumors in the eye, brain, kidney, adrenal gland, and other organs based on their gene mutations. The VHL tumor suppressor gene contains pathogenic variants responsible for these events. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the genetic differences among the various types of VHL syndrome and their correlation with the location of mutations (exons and domains) in the VHL gene.

Method
Papers eligible for publication until September 2023 were identified using the electronic databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and EMBASE. The Random Effect model was utilized to evaluate the genetic differences between type 1 and type 2 VHL syndromes.

Results
The prevalence of missense mutations (MSs) was found to be 58.9% in type 1, while it was 88.1% in type 2. Interestingly, the probability of observing MSs in type 1 was 0.42 times lower compared to type 2. The mutation hotspots of the VHL gene were R167Q/W, Y98H, R238W, and S65L, respectively. Although type 2 had a high presentation of Y98H and R238W, it did not have a higher S65L than type 1. The analysis demonstrated a statistically significant higher prevalence of truncated mutations (PTMs) in type 1. Among type 1, large/complete deletions (L/C DELs) were found in 16.9% of cases, whereas in type 2 only 3.7%. This difference was statistically significant with a p-value < 0.001. Overall, the probability of identifying mutations in domain 2 compared to domain 1 was found to be 2.13 times higher in type 1 (p-value < 0.001). Furthermore, the probability of detecting exon 1 in comparison with observing exon 2 in type 1 was 2.11 times higher than type 2 and revealed a statistically significant result (p-value < 0.001). The detection of exon 2 was 2.18 times higher in type 1 (p-value < 0.001). In addition, the likelihood of discovering exon 2 compared with others was significantly lower in type 1 compared with type 2 VHL (OR = 0.63, p-value = 0.015).

Conclusions
We have revealed a comprehensive genetic difference between types 1 and 2 of VHL syndrome. The significant differences in MS, PTMs, L/C DELs, and the location of the mutations between type 1 and type 2 VHL patients in the Asian, European, and American populations emphasize the genetic heterogeneity of the syndrome. These findings may pave the way for the diagnosis, treatment, and further investigation of the mechanisms behind this complex genetic disorder.
Factors influencing the tendency of residual symptoms in patients with depressive disorders: a longitudinal study
Authors: Li Yuwei , Wang Dong , Fang Jiexin , Zu Si , Xiao Le , Zhu Xuequan , Wang Gang , Hu Yongdong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Residual symptoms of depressive disorders are serious health problems. However, the progression process is hardly predictable due to high heterogeneity of the disease. This study aims to: (1) classify the patterns of changes in residual symptoms based on homogeneous data, and (2) identify potential predictors for these patterns.

Methods
In this study, we conducted a data-driven Latent Class Growth Analysis (LCGA) to identify distinct tendencies of changes in residual symptoms, which were longitudinally quantified using the QIDS-SR16 at baseline and 1/3/6 months post-baseline for depressed patients. The association between baseline characteristics (e.g. clinical features and cognitive functions) and different progression tendencies were also identified.

Results
The tendency of changes in residual symptoms was categorized into four classes: “light residual symptom decline (15.4%)”, “residual symptom disappears (39.3%)”, “steady residual symptom (6.3%)” and “severe residual symptom decline (39.0%)”. We observed that the second class displayed more favorable recuperation outcomes than the rest of patients. The severity, recurrence, polypharmacy, and medication adherence of symptoms are intricately linked to the duration of residual symptoms’ persistence. Additionally, clinical characteristics including sleep disturbances, depressive moods, alterations in appetite or weight, and difficulties with concentration have been identified as significant factors in the recovery process.

Conclusions
Our research findings indicate that certain clinical characteristics in patients with depressive disorders are associated with poor recovery from residual symptoms following acute treatment. This revelation holds significant value in the targeted attention to specific patients and the development of early intervention strategies for residual symptoms accordingly.
Reexamination of the relationships among neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in a sample of patients diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder
Authors: Lee Kun-Hua , Yu Chuan-Hsun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study proposed and evaluated a theoretical model for exploring the relationships between neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning in individuals with chronic schizophrenia.

Method
The study recruited 229 individuals given a diagnosis of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders from outpatient clinics and the day ward of a mental health hospital. After informed consent was obtained, the participants underwent assessments using the backward digit span, the digit symbol, and measures of self-defeatist beliefs, experiential negative symptoms, and social functioning. A structural equation model was applied to assess the fitness of the hypothesized model, with indices such as the goodness-of-fit index, comparative fit index, root mean square error of approximation, and standardized root mean square residual being used for model evaluation.

Results
The hypothesized model had an adequate fit. The study findings indicated that neurocognition might indirectly influence self-defeatist beliefs through its effect on experiential negative symptoms. Contrary to expectations, the study did not observe a direct influence of neurocognition, self-defeatist beliefs, or negative symptoms on social functioning. The revised model revealed the role of experiential negative symptoms in mediating the association between neurocognition and social functioning. However, self-defeatist beliefs did not significantly affect social functioning.

Discussion
Before modifying negative thoughts, enhancement of self-awareness ability can help improve negative symptoms and thereby improve the performance of social functions. Future research should develop a hierarchical program of negative symptoms, from cognition rehabilitation to enhancement of self-awareness, and end with modifying maladaptive beliefs.
Peripheral giant cell granuloma in a child with ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-cleft lip/palate syndrome: a case report
Authors: Kumar Aman , Srivastava Vinay Kumar , Sonal Sannu , Bhati Vaishali 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Ectrodactyly-ectodermal dysplasia-cleft lip/palate (EEC) syndrome mainly affects ectodermal and mesodermal tissues. It is usually manifested as split hands and feet, ectodermal dysplasia, and orofacial clefting, along with other signs and symptoms. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment is required, in which dentists play an important role in identifying and treating various oral conditions that may be genetically linked to or may be the result of EEC syndrome.

Case presentation
The present case describes the oral condition of a young child suffering from EEC syndrome and presenting with peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) in the mandibular anterior region. After obtaining a thorough medical and family history and a clinical examination, the lesion was surgically excised under local anesthesia. The patient was followed up at periodic intervals for the next twenty four months, during which no recurrence of the lesion was observed.

Conclusion
This report highlights the role of a dentist in the management of the oral conditions of patients suffering from EEC syndrome.
Physicians’ experiences and perceptions about withholding and withdrawal life-sustaining treatment in Chiang Mai University Hospital: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ketchaikosol Nattanit , Pinyopornpanish Kanokporn , Angkurawaranon Chaisiri , Dejkriengkraikul Nisachol , Chutarattanakul Lalita 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment in end-of-life patients is a challenging ethical issue faced by physicians. Understanding physicians’ experiences and factors influencing their decisions can lead to improvement in end-of-life care.

Objectives
To investigate the experiences of Thai physicians when making decisions regarding the withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments in end-of-life situations. Additionally, the study aims to assess the consensus among physicians regarding the factors that influence these decisions and to explore the influence of families or surrogates on the decision-making process of physicians, utilizing case-based surveys.

Methods
A web-based survey was conducted among physicians practicing in Chiang Mai University Hospital (June - October 2022).

Results
Among 251 physicians (response rate 38.3%), most of the respondents (60.6%) reported that they experienced withholding or withdrawal treatment in end-of-life patients. Factors that influence their decision-making include patient’s preferences (100%), prognosis (93.4%), patients’ quality of life (92.8%), treatment burden (89.5%), and families’ request (87.5%). For a chronic disease with comatose condition, the majority of the physicians (47%) chose to continue treatments, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). In contrast, only 2 physicians (0.8%) would do everything, in cases when families or surrogates insisted on stopping the treatment. This increased to 78.1% if the families insisted on continuing treatment.

Conclusion
Withholding and withdrawal of life-sustaining treatments are common in Thailand. The key factors influencing their decision-making process included patient’s preferences and medical conditions and families’ requests. Effective communication and early engagement in advanced care planning between physicians, patients, and families empower them to align treatment choices with personal values.
A systematic mapping of public health master’s and structured doctoral programs in Germany
Authors: Saturska Hanna , Kufer Katrina , Pedron Sara , Meyer Gesa , Emmert-Fees Karl , Laxy Michael , Stephan Anna-Janina 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
Well-trained public health professionals are key to addressing both global and local public health challenges of the twenty-first century. Though availability of programs has increased, the population health science (PHS) and public health (PH) higher education landscape in Germany remains scattered. To date, no comprehensive overview of programs exists.

Objectives
This study aimed to map PHS and PH master’s and structured doctoral programs in Germany, including selected program characteristics, curricula and target competencies.

Methods
We conducted a systematic mapping of PHS and PH programs in Germany following a prospectively registered protocol (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KTCBA). Relevant master’s and doctoral programs were identified by two study authors independently searching a comprehensive higher education database, which was, for doctoral programs, supplemented with a google search. For PHS programs, general characteristics were mapped and for the subset of PH programs, in-depth characteristics were extracted.

Results
Overall, 75 master’s and 18 structured doctoral PHS programs were included. Of these, 23 master’s and 8 doctoral programs focused specifically on PH. The majority of PHS master’s programs awarded a Master of Science degree (55 out of 75 programs). The PH master’s program curricula offered various courses, allowing for different specializations. Courses on topics like public health, epidemiology, health systems (research) and research methods were common for the majority of the master’s programs, while courses on physical activity, behavioral science, nutrition, and mental health were offered less frequently. Structured PH doctoral programs were mainly offered by medical faculties (6 out of 8 programs) and awarded a doctorate of philosophy (Ph.D.) (6 out of 8 programs). PH doctoral programs were very heterogeneous regarding curricula, entry, and publication requirements. There was a broad geographical distribution of programs across Germany, with educational clusters in Munich, Berlin, Bielefeld and Düsseldorf.

Conclusion
Germany offers a diverse landscape of PHS and PH master’s programs, but only few structured doctoral programs. The variety of mandatory courses and competencies in these programs reflect Germany’s higher education system’s answer to the evolving demands of the PH sector. This review may aid in advancing PH education both in Germany and globally.
Patient profiled data for treatment decision-making: valuable as an add-on to hepatitis C clinical guidelines?
Authors: Brakenhoff Sylvia M. , Theijse Thymen , van Wijngaarden Peter , Trautwein Christian , Brozat Jonathan F. , Tacke Frank , Honkoop Pieter , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Posthouwer Dirk , Zeuzem Stefan , Mihm Ulrike , Wedemeyer Heiner , Berg Thomas , Schalm Solko W. , de Knegt Robert J. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background and Aims
Systematic reviews and medical guidelines are widely used in clinical practice. However, these are often not up-to-date and focussed on the average patient. We therefore aimed to evaluate a guideline add-on, TherapySelector (TS), which is based on monthly updated data of all available high-quality studies, classified in specific patient profiles.

Methods
We evaluated the TS for the treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) in an international cohort of patients treated with direct-acting antivirals between 2015 and 2020. The primary outcome was the number of patients receiving one of the two preferred treatment options of the HCV TS, based on the highest level of evidence, cure rate, absence of ribavirin-associated adverse effects, and treatment duration.

Results
We enrolled 567 patients. The number of patients treated with one of the two preferred treatment options according to the HCV TS ranged between 27% (2015) and 60% (2020; p < 0.001). Most of the patients received a regimen with a longer treatment-duration (up to 34%) and/or addition of ribavirin (up to 14%). The effect on the expected cure-rate was minimal (1–6% higher) when the first preferred TherapySelector option was given compared to the actual treatment.

Conclusions
Medical decision-making can be optimised by a guideline add-on; in HCV its use appears to minimise adverse effects and cost. The use of such an add-on might have a greater impact in diseases with suboptimal cure-rates, high costs or adverse effects, for which treatment options rely on specific patient characteristics.
The effect of balint practice on reducing stress, anxiety and depression levels of psychiatric nurses and improving empathy level
Authors: Mao Yunnan , Zhang Fenghong , Wang Yanyan , Hu Qiuyue , Fan Lingyun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Objective
To explore the effect of Balint Group in improving stress, negative mood and empathy of psychiatric nurses.

Method
In March 2022-March 2023, 150 psychiatric nurses from four hospitals in Lanzhou were selected for the study, randomly grouped into experimental group and control groups (75 per group), the experimental group participated the Balint Group activities biweekly, the control group only attended mental health knowledge lectures. Job stress, negative emotion and empathy of the two groups before and after the intervention were evaluated and compared by using job stressor Scale, coping style Assessment Scale, self-assessment scale for depression, self-assessment Scale for anxiety and Jefferson Empathy Scale.

Results
After intervention, the job stressor scale and coping style evaluation of nurses in the two groups were significantly decreased, and the experimental group was lower than the control group (P < 0.05). The depression and anxiety of nurses in the two groups were significantly improved, and the experimental group was better than the control group (P < 0.05). The differences in the total score and dimensions of Jefferson Empathy scale in the experimental group after intervention were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
Balint group activities can effectively relieve the stress, depression and anxiety of psychiatric nurses, and improve the ability of empathy at work.
Using formative process evaluation to improve program implementation and accessibility of competitive group-based physical activity in the TEAM-PA trial
Authors: Sweeney Allison M. , Wilson Dawn K. , Zarrett Nicole , Simmons Timothy , Mansfield Makayla , Decker Lindsay 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Background
This study demonstrates how formative process evaluation was used to assess implementation and improve dose and fidelity in the Together Everyone Achieves More Physical Activity (TEAM-PA) randomized controlled trial. TEAM-PA uses a randomized group cohort design to evaluate the efficacy of a group-based intervention for increasing physical activity among African American women.

Methods
Intervention groups met for 10 weeks and were co-led by female African American facilitators, with intervention sessions consisting of group feedback, a health curriculum, group-based physical activity games, and group-based goal-setting. Drawing from a multi-theoretical framework, the intervention targeted social affiliation using collaborative and competitive group strategies, including essential elements focused on group-based behavioral skills, peer-to-peer positive communication, collectivism, optimal challenge, social facilitation, and peer to peer challenges. Formative process evaluation was used to monitor reach, dose, and fidelity, and implement feedback and solutions.

Results
Across two cohorts, four groups (n = 54) were randomized to the TEAM-PA intervention. On average 84.8% of participants attended each week, which exceeded the a priori criteria. Results from the systematic observations indicated that on average 93% of the dose items were completed in each session and adequate levels of fidelity were achieved at both the facilitator and group-levels. Participants were compliant with wearing the FitBits (6.73 ± 0.42 days/week) and most participants successfully contributed to meeting the group-based goals. The use of open-ended items also revealed the need for additional modifications to the group-based PA games, including allowing for individuals to take breaks, incorporating a broader range of exercises, minimizing activities that required bending/reaching down without assistance, and providing facilitators with additional training for implementing the games. Initial evidence suggests that these changes were successful in increasing participants’ comprehension of the games from Cohort 1 (M = 1.83, SD = 0.71) to Cohort 2 (M = 3.33, SD = 0.69).

Conclusion
Findings from this study demonstrated high levels of reach, dose, and fidelity, while also highlighting strategies for implementing competitive group-based PA games that are accessible across physical fitness levels. Formative process evaluation, including open-ended items and collaborative brainstorming, holds tremendous potential for improving future interventions.

Trial registration
This study was registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (# NCT05519696) on August 22, 2022 prior to the enrollment of the first participant on September 12, 2022 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05519696?term=NCT05519696&rank=1).