bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Chinese adaptation of the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A): factor structure and psychometric properties
Authors: Chen Yu-Qi , Huang Xiao-Jie , Yang Fan , Yang Jing-Jing , Zhong Jing , Yao Kai-Min , Kuang Jing-Xiao , Xu Ming-Zhi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
To examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A) in Chinese children and adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods
A total of 248 MDD patients aged between 12 and 18 years were recruited and evaluated by the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A), the Center for Epidemiological Survey Depression Scale (CES-D), the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ), and the improved Clinical Global Impression Scale, Severity item (iCGI-S). Thirty-one patients were selected randomly to complete the PHQ-A again one week later. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the construct validity of the scale. Reliability was evaluated by Macdonald Omega coefficient. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the item-total correlation and the correlation of PHQ-A with CES-D and MFQ respectively. Spearman correlation coefficient was used to assess test-retest reliability. The optimal cut-off value, sensitivity, and specificity of the PHQ-A were achieved by estimating the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve.

Results
CFA reported adequate loadings for all items, except for item 3. Macdonald Omega coefficient of the PHQ-A was 0.87. The Spearman correlation coefficient of the test-retest reliability was 0.70. The Pearson correlation coefficients of the PHQ-A with CES-D and MFQ were 0.87 and 0.85, respectively (p < 0.01). By taking the iCGI-S as the remission criteria for MDD, the optimal cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity of the PHQ-A were 7, 98.7%, 94.7% respectively.

Conclusion
The PHQ-A presented as a unidimensional construct and demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity among the Chinese children and adolescents with MDD. A cut-off value of 7 was suggested for remission.
Prolonged grief disorder in an inpatient psychiatric sample: psychometric properties of a new clinical interview and preliminary prevalence
Authors: Rueger Mirjam Sophie , Lechner-Meichsner Franziska , Kirschbaum Lotte , Lubik Silke , Roll Sibylle C. , Steil Regina 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) was newly included in the ICD-11 and DSM-5-TR. It is not yet part of the standard assessments in many healthcare systems, including psychiatric wards. Because disordered grief is associated with suicidality, sleep problems and substance use disorders, an investigation into PGD in psychiatric inpatients is warranted.

Method
We interviewed N = 101 psychiatric inpatients who were admitted to the open psychiatric wards and the day hospital of a German psychiatric hospital and who had lost a person close to them. Assessments comprised clinical interviews and self-report instruments covering PGD and other mental disorders. We specifically developed the International Interview for Prolonged Grief Disorder according to ICD-11 (I-PGD-11) for the study and examined its psychometric properties.

Results
The prevalence rate of PGD among bereaved patients according to ICD-11 was 16.83% and according to DSM-5-TR 10.89%. The I-PGD-11 showed good psychometric properties (Mc Donald’s ω = 0.89, ICC = 0.985). Being female, having lost a child or spouse, and unnatural or surprising circumstances of the death were associated with higher PGD scores.

Trial registration
Approval was obtained by the ethics committee of the of the Goethe University Frankfurt (2021-62, 2023-17) and the Chamber of Hessian Physicians (2021-2730-evBO). The study was preregistered (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/K98MF).

Limitations
We only assessed inpatients of one psychiatric clinic in Germany, limiting the generalizability of our findings.

Conclusion
The present study underlines the importance of exploring loss and grief in psychiatric inpatients and including PGD in the assessments. Given that a significant minority of psychiatric inpatients has prolonged grief symptoms, more research into inpatient treatment programs is needed.
Thoracolumbar fractures patients undergoing posterior pedicle screw fixation can benefit from drainage
Authors: Sun Jing-yu , Zhao Ning , Chen Hua , Chen Chun-hui 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To explore whether it is necessary to put drain tubes after posterior pedicle screw fixation of thoracolumbar fractures.

Methods
From April 2020 to January 2023, a total of 291 patients with recent thoracolumbar fractures (AO type-A or type-B) who received the pedicle screw fixation operation were enrolled retrospectively. In 77 patients, drain tubes were used in the pedicle screw fixation surgery, while no drain tubes were placed in the other group. After gleaning demographic information and results of lab examination and imageology examination, all data were put into a database. Independent-sample t-tests, Pearson Chi-Square tests, Linear regression analysis, and correlation analysis were then performed.

Results
Compared to the control group, the drainage group had significantly lower postoperative CRP levels (P = 0.047), less use of antipyretics (P = 0.035), higher ADL scores (P = 0.001), and lower NRS scores (P < 0.001) on the 6th day after surgery. Other investigation items, such as demographic information, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, body temperature, and other preoperative and postoperative lab results, showed no significant differences.

Conclusions
The use of a drain tube in the pedicle screw fixation of thoracolumbar fractures is correlated with the improvement of patients’ living and activity ability and the reduction of inflammation, postoperative fever and pain.
Sexual and gender minority content in undergraduate medical education in the United States and Canada: current state and changes since 2011
Authors: Streed Carl G. , Michals Amy , Quinn Emily , Davis John A. , Blume Kylie , Dalke Katharine B. , Fetterman David , Garcia Gabriel , Goldsmith Elizabeth , Greene Richard E. , Halem Jessica , Hedian Helene F. , Moring Isabel , Navarra May , Potter Jennifer , Siegel Jennifer , White William , Lunn Mitchell R. , Obedin-Maliver Juno 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To characterize current lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI +) health-related undergraduate medical education (UME) curricular content and associated changes since a 2011 study and to determine the frequency and extent of institutional instruction in 17 LGBTQI + health-related topics, strategies for increasing LGBTQI + health-related content, and faculty development opportunities.

Method
Deans of medical education (or equivalent) at 214 allopathic or osteopathic medical schools in Canada and the United States were invited to complete a 36-question, Web-based questionnaire between June 2021 and September 2022. The main outcome measured was reported hours of LGBTQI + health-related curricular content.

Results
Of 214 schools, 100 (46.7%) responded, of which 85 (85.0%) fully completed the questionnaire. Compared to 5 median hours dedicated to LGBTQI + health-related in a 2011 study, the 2022 median reported time was 11 h (interquartile range [IQR], 6–16 h, p < 0.0001). Two UME institutions (2.4%; 95% CI, 0.0%-5.8%) reported 0 h during the pre-clerkship phase; 21 institutions (24.7%; CI, 15.5%-33.9%) reported 0 h during the clerkship phase; and 1 institution (1.2%; CI, 0%-3.5%) reported 0 h across the curriculum. Median US allopathic clerkship hours were significantly different from US osteopathic clerkship hours (4 h [IQR, 1–6 h] versus 0 h [IQR, 0–0 h]; p = 0.01). Suggested strategies to increase content included more curricular material focusing on LGBTQI + health and health disparities at 55 schools (64.7%; CI, 54.6%-74.9%), more faculty willing and able to teach LGBTQI + -related content at 49 schools (57.7%; CI, 47.1%-68.2%), and more evidence-based research on LGBTQI + health and health disparities at 24 schools (28.2%; CI, 18.7%-37.8%).

Conclusion
Compared to a 2011 study, the median reported time dedicated to LGBTQI + health-related topics in 2022 increased across US and Canadian UME institutions, but the breadth, efficacy, or quality of instruction continued to vary substantially. Despite the increased hours, this still falls short of the number of hours based on recommended LGBTQI + health competencies from the Association of American Medical Colleges. While most deans of medical education reported their institutions’ coverage of LGBTQI + health as ‘fair,’ ‘good,’ or ‘very good,’ there continues to be a call from UME leadership to increase curricular content. This requires dedicated training for faculty and students.
Circulating-tumour DNA methylation of HAND1 gene: a promising biomarker in early detection of colorectal cancer
Authors: Shavali Mehrdad , Moradi Arash , Tahmaseb Mohammad , Mohammadian Kamal , Ganji Shahla Mohammad 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the significant global health concerns with an increase in cases. Regular screening tests are crucial for early detection as it is often asymptomatic in the initial stages. Liquid biopsies, a non-invasive approach that examines biomarkers in biofluids, offer a promising future in diagnosing and screening cancer. Circulating-tumour DNA (ctDNA) is the genetic material in biofluids released into the circulatory system by cells. ctDNA is a promising marker for monitoring patients since cancer cells display distinct DNA methylation patterns compared to normal cells. The potential of our research to contribute to early detection and improved patient outcomes is significant.

Aims
The primary objective of this research project was to explore the HAND1 methylation levels in plasma ctDNA as a potential biomarker for diagnosing CRC and evaluate the methylation level of the well-established gene SPET9 to compare it with the methylation level of HAND1.

Materials and methods
Plasma samples were collected from 30 CRC patients and 15 healthy individuals, with CRC samples obtained pre-treatment. ctDNA was extracted and treated with bisulfite for methylation status assessment. Quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMS-PCR) was performed for HAND1 and SEPT9, using β-actin (ACTB gene) as a reference. The study aims to evaluate the potential of these genes as diagnostic biomarkers for CRC, contributing to early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Results
Our study yielded significant results: 90% of CRC patients (27 out of 30) had hypermethylation in the SEPT9 gene, and 83% (25 out of 30) exhibited hypermethylation in the HAND1 gene. The methylation levels of both genes were significantly higher in CRC patients than in healthy donors. These findings underscore the potential of SEPT9 and HAND1 methylation as promising biomarkers for diagnosing CRC, potentially leading to early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Conclusion
These findings highlight the potential of SEPT9 and HAND1 methylation as promising biomarkers for diagnosing CRC. However, further research and validation studies are needed to confirm these findings and to explore their clinical utility in CRC diagnosis and management.
Contraceptive behavior of women in India after induced abortion
Authors: Das Labhita , Shekhar Chander 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPutting an end to the silent pandemic of unsafe abortion is a major public health concern globally. Adoption of post-abortion contraception is documented as a significant contributor to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and number of induced abortions. This study aimed at investigating the post abortion contraceptive behavior of Indian women exploring the determinants of post-abortion contraceptive uptake. Retrospective calendar data for 6,862 women aged 15–49 years from fifth round of National Family Health Survey (2019–2021) was used for the study. Multinomial logistic regression method was used to model the determinant factors to post-abortion contraceptive uptake. 72.6% women reported adopting no method of contraception after the abortion procedure. A total of 27.4% women adopted some method of contraception after abortion. 14% women preferred adopting short term modern methods. Women in early reproductive age group which is the most vulnerable group in experiencing unintended pregnancies are less likely to adopt any contraceptive method after abortion. Uptake of post abortion contraception is quite low in India. Effort should be taken in the direction of bringing awareness through provision of targeted contraceptive counselling after abortion.
A human pluripotent stem cell-derived in vitro model of the blood–brain barrier in cerebral malaria
Authors: Gopinadhan Adnan , Hughes Jason M. , Conroy Andrea L. , John Chandy C. , Canfield Scott G. , Datta Dibyadyuti 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption is a central feature of cerebral malaria (CM), a severe complication of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infections. In CM, sequestration of Pf-infected red blood cells (Pf-iRBCs) to brain endothelial cells combined with inflammation, hemolysis, microvasculature obstruction and endothelial dysfunction mediates BBB disruption, resulting in severe neurologic symptoms including coma and seizures, potentially leading to death or long-term sequelae. In vitro models have advanced our knowledge of CM-mediated BBB disruption, but their physiological relevance remains uncertain. Using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived brain microvascular endothelial cells (hiPSC-BMECs), we aimed to develop a novel in vitro model of the BBB in CM, exhibiting enhanced barrier properties.

Methods
hiPSC-BMECs were co-cultured with HB3var03 strain Pf-iRBCs up to 9 h. Barrier integrity was measured using transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and sodium fluorescein permeability assays. Localization and expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins (occludin, zonula occludens-1, claudin-5), cellular adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1), and endothelial surface markers (EPCR) were determined using immunofluorescence imaging (IF) and western blotting (WB). Expression of angiogenic and cell stress markers were measured using multiplex proteome profiler arrays.

Results
After 6-h of co-culture with Pf-iRBCs, hiPSC-BMECs showed reduced TEER and increased sodium fluorescein permeability compared to co-culture with uninfected RBCs, indicative of a leaky barrier. We observed disruptions in localization of occludin, zonula occludens-1, and claudin-5 by IF, but no change in protein expression by WB in Pf-iRBC co-cultures. Expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 but not EPCR was elevated in hiPSC-BMECs with Pf-iRBC co-culture compared to uninfected RBC co-culture. In addition, there was an increase in expression of angiogenin, platelet factor-4, and phospho-heat shock protein-27 in the Pf-iRBCs co-culture compared to uninfected RBC co-culture.

Conclusion
These findings demonstrate the validity of our hiPSC-BMECs based model of the BBB, that displays enhanced barrier integrity and appropriate TJ protein localization. In the hiPSC-BMEC co-culture with Pf-iRBCs, reduced TEER, increased paracellular permeability, changes in TJ protein localization, increase in expression of adhesion molecules, and markers of angiogenesis and cellular stress all point towards a novel model with enhanced barrier properties, suitable for investigating pathogenic mechanisms underlying BBB disruption in CM.
SIMS study of fine-scale distribution of U, Th and Pb in meteorites
Authors: Yi Keewook , Amelin Yuri 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe report developing a procedure for measuring concentrations of U, Th and Pb (including all natural Pb isotopes) to establish the distribution of these elements in meteorite minerals and correctly interpret Pb-isotopic ages of meteorites. The concentrations were measured on KBSI SHRIMP IIe by peak jumping using a discrete-dynode secondary electron multiplier. The concentrations were calculated relative to BCR-2G glass and monitored by analysis of the NIST glasses SRM-615 and SRM-617 as secondary reference materials. The detection limits using the spot sizes of ca. 180 μm2, primary O2− beam current of 10.6 nA, and with amplifier dark noise of 0.015 counts per second are ~ 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) for U (500 s integration), ~ 0.6 ppb for Pb (100 s integration for each of the major isotopes), and ~ 1.2 ppb for Th (100 s integration). Analyses of the NIST glasses confirm that the measured concentrations of U and Th are consistent with their certified values, while the Pb concentrations are about four times too low, most likely due to the compositional mismatch between the primary and secondary reference materials. The achieved level of sensitivity and concentration precision (~ 20–30%) is adequate for measuring U, Th and Pb distributions in both rock-forming and accessory minerals in chondrites, achondrites, and their components.
Appraisal of lacustrine aquifer’s groundwater potentiality and its hydrogeological modelling in southeastern Peshawar, Pakistan: implications for environmental geology, and geotechnical engineering
Authors: Shahzad Syed Muzyan , Shahzad Asim , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Kontakiotis George , Fanidi Meryem , Ishfaque Muhammad , Shah Sajjad Ahmad , Makri Panayota 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe Peshawar Basin is a part of the lower Himalayas that contains an enormous amount of groundwater storage. The evaluation of groundwater potential in the southern Peshawar district was done using well logging, lithostratigraphic properties, and combined hydrogeological and geophysical techniques. A total of 13 Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) profiles were utilised to assess potential groundwater zones for surface resistivity studies. The aquifer system was delineated by comparing the data from five boreholes with the VES findings. An exploration of super-saturated groundwater potential was conducted, utilising parameters such as transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), storativity, and the Dar Zarrouk analysis. The Dar Zarrouk analysis yielded average values of transverse resistance (TR), longitudinal conductance (S), and anisotropy (λ), which were determined to be 8069.12, 0.51, and 0.561, respectively. Similarly, average values of transmissivity (T), hydraulic conductivity (K), and storativity were obtained, resulting in 28.67, 0.24, and 0.000177, respectively. The saturated confined layer, characterized by highly saturated zones, was identified to begin at a depth of approximately 119 m and extend down to the lower boundary of the aquifer. The examined aquifer is composed of clay, sand, gravel, boulders, and loose layers of lacustrine mud that are interlayered to form an unconsolidated groundwater aquifer system. The aquifers in the region are highly developed and consisted of unconfined, semi-confined, and confined aquifer systems. As a result, it is possible to use the aquifer for groundwater development in the study area because of its low -to-medium discharge.
Hydrocolpos causing bowel obstruction in a preterm newborn: a case report
Authors: Jouza Martin , Rejdova Ingrid , Cintula Lukas , Jouzova Anna , Jabandziev Petr 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Imperforate hymen is the most common congenital defect of the female urogenital tract. The spectrum of clinical manifestations is broad, ranging from mild cases undiagnosed until adolescence to severe cases of giant intraabdominal masses. The most common complication of hydrocolpos is bladder compression, resulting in obstructive uropathy and hydronephrosis.

Case presentation
We present here the case of a preterm neonate who was admitted to the surgical neonatal intensive care unit for bowel obstruction. The baby did not appear septic or unwell, a small amount of meconium passed frequently, and no bilious gastric residuals occurred. Based on these findings, acute abdominal obstruction was doubtful, and the surgeon chose a conservative (watch and wait) approach. Subsequently, we performed abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging based on unclear information about a suspicious abdominal mass raised by the gynecologist shortly before the emergency C-section. The final diagnosis was congenital hydrocolpos due to imperforate hymen. The pediatric gynecologist indicated an incision of the imperforate hymen under general anesthesia. The incision resolved abdominal distention as well as the bowel obstruction.

Conclusion
The presentation of hydrocolpos was not typical (no bulging in the vaginal introitus) in our case, and clinical symptoms implied acute bowel obstruction shortly after birth. The surgeon chose a conservative (watch and wait) approach as the baby did not appear unwell on the second day of life. Fortunately, diagnostic laparotomy was not required as the next step in bowel obstruction management. All clinical symptoms resolved after a minor surgical procedure.
Unanticipated pathological clearance in two cases of clinical T4b dMMR/MSI-h advanced colorectal cancer: the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors despite positive positron-emission tomography results
Authors: Nakamura Daigaku , Yanagita Takeshi , Fujii Yoshiaki , Watanabe Kaori , Suzuki Takuya , Ushigome Hajime , Nishigaki Ruriko , Sugimura Naomi , Tanaka Mamoru , Ogawa Ryo , Takahashi Hiroki , Shimura Takaya , Hotta Yuji , Matsuo Yoichi , Kondo Masahiro , Furukawa-Hibi Yoko , Takiguchi Shuji 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
The standard treatment for colorectal cancer consists of surgery and chemotherapy, which can be combined to improve outcomes. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are a significant advancement in the standard treatment of metastatic, unresectable colorectal cancer with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR). However, limited data are available about the use of ICI in the neoadjuvant and conversion settings. Here, we present two cases treated with ICI.

Case presentation
Case 1: A 75-year-old male with a large, borderline resectable rectal cancer diagnosed as cT4bN1bM0 who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, followed by combination ICI consisting of ipilimumab and nivolumab. After four courses of ICI, the tumor significantly shrank, but positron emission tomography still showed a positive result and R0 resection was performed. Pathological analysis revealed no residual cancer cells. The patient has been monitored without adjuvant chemotherapy, and no recurrences have occurred after one year. Case 2: A 60-year-old male with locally advanced sigmoid colon cancer who received neoadjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab. The tumor partially shrank after three courses, and continued pembrolizumab monotherapy resulted in further tumor shrinkage which still showed positive positron emission tomography. Curative sigmoidectomy with partial resection of the ileum and bladder was performed, and the pathological outcome was pCR. There was no viable tumor in the specimen. The patient has been monitored without adjuvant chemotherapy for six months, and no recurrence has been observed.

Conclusions
The present study reports two cases, including a large, borderline resectable rectal cancer after failure of chemotherapy followed by combination treatment with nivolumab and ipilimumab and one case of sigmoid colon cancer after pembrolizumab treatment, which resulted in pathological complete response. However, it remains unknown whether ICI therapy can replace surgery or diminish the optimal extent of resection, or whether adjuvant chemotherapy is needed after surgery in the case of achieving pCR after ICI therapy. Overall, this case report suggests that ICI before colorectal surgery can be effective and potentially a ‘watch-and-wait” strategy could be used for cases in which ICI is effective.