bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cross-country variations in the caregiver role: evidence from the ENTWINE-iCohort study
Authors: Zarzycki Mikołaj , Vilchinsky Noa , Bei Eva , Ferraris Giulia , Seddon Diane , Morrison Val 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Globally, economically developed countries face similar ageing demographics and the challenge of a ‘care gap’, yet they vary due to different care and formal support systems, and different cultural and societal norms around illness and care. The aim of this exploratory study was to examine cross-country variations in caregiver motivations, willingness, values, meaning in life, illness beliefs, and experiences of wellbeing, gain, health-related quality of life, burden and depression, across 6 European countries and Israel. Cross-country differences in the above-mentioned informal caregiver experiences are rarely described.

Methods
An online survey (ENTWINE-iCohort) was conducted using validated measures wherever possible. This paper utilises data from 879 caregivers and seven countries (Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the UK, and Israel).

Results
No consistent finding supporting the concurrent relationship between caregiver support policies/country culture and caregiver motivations/willingness was found. Caregivers in countries typically characterised by individualist cultures reported lower familism, higher self-enhancement values, and greater perceived illness threat compared to more collectivist countries. Search for meaning was higher in poorer countries than in wealthier countries. Higher negative caregiver experiences (e.g., burden) and lower positive experiences (e.g., wellbeing) were generally observed in countries with underdeveloped caregiver support as compared to countries with more developed formal support systems.

Conclusions
Cross-country variations can be explained to varying degrees by national policies around care (or their absence) and country cultural contexts. The results emphasise the importance of formal support services for achieving positive caregiver experiences, and help inform the development of policies and measures to support caregivers in Europe and Israel.
Differences in nutritional status and level of physical activity among adolescents living in urban and rural areas of Montenegro - national study
Authors: Vrevic Erol , Malovic Pavle , Bacovic Dragan , Bojanic Danilo , Nokic Aldijana 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Nutritional status and physical activity are important factors for adolescent health. These factors may vary by the place of residence. This study aims to assess the nutritional status and physical activity levels, as well as their variations by the place of residence.

Methods
The sample consisted of 1503 adolescents (46.3% male; 53.7% female), with a mean age of 15.7 ± 0.7 years. Nutritional status was assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI), Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR), and Body Fat Percentage (BF). Physical activity levels were assessed using the PAQ-C questionnaire. Differences in nutritional status among adolescents living in urban and rural areas were analyzed using Chi-square test (p ≤ 0.05), while differences in physical activity levels were analyzed using an independent samples t-test (p ≤ 0.05).

Results
In terms of BMI, 14.7% of males were overweight and 10.1% were obese, while 12% of female adolescents were overweight and 3.1% were obese. There were no differences in nutritional status among adolescents living in urban and rural areas (BMI, WHtR, BF). Male adolescents in rural areas had significantly higher physical activity levels compared to urban areas (p = 0.032). They showed higher activity scores during a spare time (p = 0.002), physical education classes (p = 0.002), little breaks (p = 0.007), and lunchtime (p = 0.034). Female adolescents showed significance only in spare time activity (p = 0.020).

Conclusion
The differences in nutritional status among adolescents living in urban and rural areas were not found. However, male adolescents living in urban areas showed lower physical activity levels than their rural counterparts. Strategies should be implemented to promote physical activity among adolescents in urban areas, and attention should be given to the further urbanization process to create improved conditions for engaging in physical activity.
Preliminary findings on the development of a predictive model for BLCA based on disulfidptosis-associated IncRNAs signature
Authors: Tang Chao , Fan Yanpeng , Zhu Shusheng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA) is the most common malignancy of the urinary tract, presenting with a wide range of clinical symptoms and prognosis. Disulfidptosis is a newly identified cell death method and closely associated with BLCA progression, prognosis, and treatment outcome. Currently, we need to construct a new prognostic model for disulfidptosis-related long noncoding RNAs (drlncRNAs) to improve the treatment strategy of BLCA.

Methods
The data for BLCA samples were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and then 10 unique genes related to disulfidoptosis (DRGs) were identified from research papers. The differences between the two groups showed in this study were used to create the “disulfidptosis-related long noncoding RNAs score” (disulfidptosis-score) prognostic model.

Results
We identified two groups of drlncRNAs with high and low disulfidptosis scores in this study. Patients with low disulfidptosis scores had a better overall survival rate compared to those with high scores in bladder cancer, and the high disulfidptosis score subtype exhibited more active malignant pathways related to cancer than the low score subtype. We found that the low disulfidptosis-score subgroup had better prognosis than the high disulfidptosis-score subgroup. The expression of mutation burden was much higher in the low disulfidptosis-score group than in the high disulfidptosis-score group. The low disulfidptosis-score subgroup of patients exhibited significantly higher proportions of plasma cells, T cells CD8, and Tregs, while the high-risk subgroup had a greater abundance of Macrophages M0 and Macrophages M2. The disulfidptosis-score showed a strong correlation with the sensitivity of chemotherapeutic drugs, and patients in the low disulfidptosis-score group were more likely to exhibit an immune response and respond positively to immunotherapy. Additionally, we developed a nomogram to enhance the accuracy of the disulfidptosis-clinical score.

Conclusion
Based on our investigation of disulfidptosis-score in BLCA, disulfidptosis-score may have an important role in TME, prognosis, and drug sensitivity. We also investigated the significance of the disulfidoptosis-score in relation to immunotherapy and immune response, providing a basis for improving prognosis and responding to immunotherapy among patients with BLCA.
Utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among construction worker women in southern Ethiopia
Authors: Darebo Tadele Dana , Birhanu Zewudu , Alemayehu Mihretu , Balcha Behailu , Worku Adisu , Assele Desalegn Dawit , Spigt Mark 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
In Ethiopia, the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services (SRH) is alarmingly inadequate, leading to higher rates of maternal and newborn mortality. Disparities in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services exist among different population groups, with construction worker women at a higher risk of experiencing such issues. We investigated the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services and associated factors among construction worker women in Southern Ethiopia.

Method
We conducted a cross-sectional study among construction worker women (15–49) in Southern Ethiopia from July 1st to July 30th, 2021. The participants were selected randomly using venue-day-time sampling (VDTS). The data were collected by a pretested structured questionnaire using an open data kit (ODK) and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with sexual and reproductive health service utilization. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI was used and statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05.

Results
The study revealed that 54.4% of women of reproductive age had used at least one sexual and reproductive health service in the past year. About 66.7% of women experienced sexual harassment at work, with sex discrimination (86.9%) and sexist hostility (57.9%) being the most common. Aged over 20 years, married women, living with husbands, friends, and boyfriends, within 30 min of health facilities, and having a favorable attitude were significantly associated with SRH service utilization.

Conclusion
Nearly half of construction workers in southern Ethiopia are not using sexual and reproductive health services, indicating a concerning lack of access to such services. Over two-thirds of women experience sexual harassment in construction site. Therefore, to ensure universal access to SRH services, it is essential to design a new approach including outreach programs specifically tailored to reach such vulnerable groups.
Incorporating a situational judgement test in residency selections: clinical, educational and organizational outcomes
Authors: Saxena Anurag , Desanghere Loni , Dore Kelly , Reiter Harold 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Computer-based assessment for sampling personal characteristics (Casper), an online situational judgement test, is a broad measure of personal and professional qualities. We examined the impact of Casper in the residency selection process on professionalism concerns, learning interventions and resource utilization at an institution.

Methods
In 2022, admissions data and information in the files of residents in difficulty (over three years pre- and post- Casper implementation) was used to determine the number of residents in difficulty, CanMEDS roles requiring a learning intervention, types of learning interventions (informal learning plans vs. formal remediation or probation), and impact on the utilization of institutional resource (costs and time). Professionalism concerns were mapped to the 4I domains of a professionalism framework, and their severity was considered in mild, moderate, and major categories. Descriptive statistics and between group comparisons were used for quantitative data.

Results
In the pre- and post- Casper cohorts the number of residents in difficulty (16 vs. 15) and the number of learning interventions (18 vs. 16) were similar. Professionalism concerns as an outcome measure decreased by 35% from 12/16 to 6/15 (p < 0.05), were reduced in all 4I domains (involvement, integrity, interaction, introspection) and in their severity. Formal learning interventions (15 vs. 5) and informal learning plans (3 vs. 11) were significantly different in the pre- and post-Casper cohorts respectively (p < 0.05). This reduction in formal learning interventions was associated with a 96% reduction in costs f(rom hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars and a reduction in time for learning interventions (from years to months).

Conclusions
Justifiable from multiple stakeholder perspectives, use of an SJT (Casper) improves a clinical performance measure (professionalism concerns) and permits the institution to redirect its limited resources (cost savings and time) to enhance institutional endeavors and improve learner well-being and quality of programs.
Treatment approaches and costs associated with diabetes clinical metrics as measured by Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS)
Authors: Alkhaddo Jamil , Rung Jillian M. , Khowaja Ameer , Yin Yue , Richards Shannon B. , Drury-Gworek Charlotte , Afreen Samina , Rossi Caitlan , Manzi Susan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
The clinical outcomes of diabetes can be influenced by primary care providers’ (PCP) treatment approaches. This study explores the association between PCP approaches to management and performance measured by established diabetes metrics and related costs.

Methods
In phase one, Electronic Medical Records were used to extract diabetes related metrics using Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS), for patients with diabetes who had office visits to 44 PCP practices from April 2019 to March 2020. Using those metrics and scoring system, PCP practices were ranked and then categorized into high- and low-performing groups (top and bottom 25%, n = 11 each), with a total of 19,059 clinic visits by patients with a diagnosis of diabetes. Then extensive analysis was performed to evaluate a correlation between treatment approaches and diabetes outcomes across the top and bottom performing practices. In phase 2, patients with diabetes who were attributed to the aforementioned PCP practices were identified in a local health plan claims data base (a total of 3,221 patients), and the allowed amounts from their claims were used to evaluate differences in total and diabetes-related healthcare costs by providers’ performance.

Results
Comparing 10,834 visits in high-performing practices to 8,235 visits in low-performing practices, referrals to certified diabetes care and education specialists and provider-to-provider electronic consults (e-consults) were higher in high-performing practices (Z = 6.06, p < .0001), while traditional referrals were higher in low-performing practices (Z = -6.94, p < .0001). The patient-to-provider ratio was higher in the low-performing group (M = 235.23) than in the high-performing group (M = 153.26) (Z = -2.82, p = .0048). Claims data analysis included 1,825 and 1,396 patients from high- and low-performing providers, respectively. The patient-to-provider ratio was again higher in the low-performing group (p = .009, V = 0.62). Patients receiving care from lower-performing practices were more likely to have had a diabetes-related hospital observation (5.7% vs. 3.9%, p = .02; V = 0.04) and higher diabetes-related care costs (p = .002; d = − 0.07); these differences by performance status persisted when controlling for differences in patient and physician characteristics. Patients seeing low-performing providers had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (Mdn = 3) than those seeing high-performing providers (Mdn = 2).

Conclusions
Referrals to the CDCES and e-Consult were associated with better measured diabetes outcomes, as were certain aspects of cost and types of hospital utilization. Higher patients to providers ratio and patients with more comorbidities were observed in low performing group.
Coupling of nanostraws with diverse physicochemical perforation strategies for intracellular DNA delivery
Authors: Jiang Juan , Liu Jing , Liu Xinmin , Xu Xingyuan , Liu Zhengjie , Huang Shuang , Huang Xinshuo , Yao Chuanjie , Wang Xiafeng , Chen Yixin , Chen Hui-jiuan , Wang Ji , Xie Xi 
Published: March 2024

AbstractEffective intracellular DNA transfection is imperative for cell-based therapy and gene therapy. Conventional gene transfection methods, including biochemical carriers, physical electroporation and microinjection, face challenges such as cell type dependency, low efficiency, safety concerns, and technical complexity. Nanoneedle arrays have emerged as a promising avenue for improving cellular nucleic acid delivery through direct penetration of the cell membrane, bypassing endocytosis and endosome escape processes. Nanostraws (NS), characterized by their hollow tubular structure, offer the advantage of flexible solution delivery compared to solid nanoneedles. However, NS struggle to stably self-penetrate the cell membrane, resulting in limited delivery efficiency. Coupling with extra physiochemical perforation strategies is a viable approach to improve their performance. This study systematically compared the efficiency of NS coupled with polyethylenimine (PEI) chemical modification, mechanical force, photothermal effect, and electric field on cell membrane perforation and DNA transfection. The results indicate that coupling NS with PEI modification, mechanical force, photothermal effects provide limited enhancement effects. In contrast, NS-electric field coupling significantly improves intracellular DNA transfection efficiency. This work demonstrates that NS serve as a versatile platform capable of integrating various physicochemical strategies, while electric field coupling stands out as a form worthy of primary consideration for efficient DNA transfection.
OCTN2- and ATB0,+-targeted nanoemulsions for improving ocular drug delivery
Authors: Tang Bo , Wang Qiuxiang , Zhang Guowei , Zhang Aiwen , Zhu Lu , Zhao Rongrong , Gu Hongwei , Meng Jie , Zhang Junfang , Fang Guihua 
Published: March 2024

AbstractTraditional eye drops are administered via topical instillation. However, frequent dosing is needed due to their relatively rapid precorneal removal and low ocular bioavailability. To address these issues, stearoyl L-carnitine-modified nanoemulsions (SC-NEs) were fabricated. The physicochemical properties of SC-NEs in terms of size, morphology, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, and in vitro drug release behavior were characterized. The cellular uptake and mechanisms of SC-NEs were comprehensively studied in human corneal epithelial cells and the stearoyl L-carnitine ratio in SC-NEs was optimized. The optimized SC-NEs could target the novel organic cation/carnitine transporter 2 (OCTN2) and amino acid transporter B (0 +) (ATB0,+) on the corneal epithelium, which led to superior corneal permeation, ocular surface retention ability, ocular bioavailability. Furthermore, SC-NEs showed excellent in vivo anti-inflammatory efficacy in a rabbit model of endotoxin-induced uveitis. The ocular safety test indicated that the SC-NEs were biocompatible. In general, the current study demonstrated that OCTN2 and ATB0,+-targeted nanoemulsions were promising ophthalmologic drug delivery systems that can improve ocular drug bioavailability and boost the therapeutic effects of drugs for eye diseases.
Graphical Abstract
Bulk RNA sequencing for analysis of post COVID-19 condition in adolescents and young adults
Authors: Sommen Silke Lauren , Zhao Zhi , Segtnan Sunniva , Stiansen-Sonerud Tonje , Selvakumar Joel , Beier Havdal Lise , Gjerstad Johannes , Wyller Vegard Bruun Bratholm , Lund Berven Lise 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundPost COVID-19 condition (PCC) is a complication of SARS-COV-2 infection and can lead to long-term disability.MethodsThe present study was designed to analyse the gene expression patterns of PCC through bulk RNA sequencing of whole blood and to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of PCC. Whole blood was collected from 80 participants enrolled in a prospective cohort study following SARS-CoV-2 infected and non-infected individuals for 6 months after recruitment and was used for bulk RNA sequencing. Identification of differentially expressed genes (DEG), pathway enrichment and immune cell deconvolution was performed to explore potential biological pathways involved in PCC.ResultsWe have found 13 differentially expressed genes associated with PCC. Enriched pathways were related to interferon-signalling and anti-viral immune processes.ConclusionThe PCC transcriptome is characterized by a modest overexpression of interferon-stimulated genes, pointing to a subtle ongoing inflammatory response.
Contextual determinants of generational continuation of female genital mutilation among women of reproductive age in nigeria: analysis of the 2018 demographic and health survey
Authors: Oni Tosin Olajide , Okunlola David Aduragbemi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Female genital mutilation (FGM) has negative health implications and has long been recognised as violating sexual rights. Despite the huge efforts expended on eradicating FGM, generational continuation of the practice, i.e. the act of mutilated women also mutilating their daughters, persists in Nigeria. This study investigated the individual, household, and community factors associated with generational continuation of FGM among women in Nigeria.

Methods
The study analysed data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). A weighted sample of 3835 women with FGM history and who had given birth to female children was analysed. Models were estimated using mixed-effects multilevel logistic regression with Stata 16.0.

Results
The results showed that 40.0% of women continued FGM for their daughters. Regional prevalence of FGM continuation ranged from 14.9% in the South-South (the lowest) to 64.3% in the North-West (the highest). Women aged 15–24 years (uaOR = 0.40; 95% CI:0.28–0.57) and rich (uaOR = 0.44; 95% CI:0.35–0.56) had the least likelihood of generational continuation of FGM. In communities with low proportions of women unexposed to the media, the likelihood of FGM continuation was significantly higher (uaOR = 1.85; 95% CI:1.35–2.53). Generational continuation of FGM was significantly lower in communities with moderate proportions of uneducated mothers (aOR = 0.6; 95% CI:0.42–0.86).

Conclusion
FGM continuation was high in Nigeria, and it was most common among older and poor mothers and in communities with large proportions of uneducated women and those unexposed to the media. Existing National Policy and Plan on FGM elimination should be strengthened to target these characteristics.
Efficacy of different doses of corticosteroids in treating severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: zhang Ge , Su Lin , Wu Wenwen , Qiao Qing , Gao Shuncui , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yanmei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
To investigate the efficacy of different doses of corticosteroids in treating severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia.

Methods
Between May 01, 2023, and June 20, 2023, 48 patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia were treated at the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of Jinan Fourth People's Hospital. The observation group (21 patients) received standard care and high-dose corticosteroids, (high-dose group). The control group (27 patients) received standard care and low-dose corticosteroids (low-dose group). We collected baseline data and recorded inflammatory marker levels after 3 days of treatment, body temperature recovery time, length of stay, and 28-day all-cause mortality. The results of outpatient follow-up were recorded after 1 month.

Results
There were no significant differences in 28-day mortality and length of stay. The number of days it took for body temperature to return to normal in the high-dose group was less than in the low-dose group. The high-dose group had significantly more reduced inflammatory factors (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6). A total of 20 discharged patients were given 8–16 mg of methylprednisolone, depending on chest computed tomography (CT) and clinical symptoms after 1 month; in all discharged patients using oral corticosteroids, CT features improved.

Conclusion
High-dose corticosteroids had a significantly positive effect on the reduction of inflammatory factors and shortening body temperature recovery time. In the treatment of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, early administration of high-dose, short-course corticosteroids should be implemented.