bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Altered IL-3 and lipocalin-2 levels are associated with the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder: a case-control study
Authors: Akter Mst. Sarmin , Emon Faisal Abdullah , Nahar Zabun , Shalahuddin Qusar MMA , Islam Sardar Mohammad Ashraful , Shahriar Mohammad , Bhuiyan Mohiuddin Ahmed , Islam Md. Rabiul 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common mental ailment and is the primary reason for disability. It manifests a severe impact on moods, thoughts, and physical health. At present, this disorder has become a concern in the field of public health. Alteration of neurochemicals is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of many psychiatric disorders. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate serum IL-3 and lipocalin-2 in MDD patients and healthy controls (HCs).

Method
We included a total of 376 participants in this study. Among them, 196 were MDD patients, and 180 were age-sex-matched HCs. MDD patients were recruited from the Psychiatry Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), but the controls were from different parts of Dhaka. All study participants were evaluated by a psychiatrist using the DSM-5 criteria. To assess the severity of the depression, we used the Hamilton depression (Ham-D) rating scale. Serum IL-3 and lipocalin-2 levels were measured using commercially available enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay kits (ELISA kits).

Results
According to this study, we observed elevated serum levels of IL-3 (1,024.73 ± 29.84 pg/mL) and reduced levels of serum lipocalin-2 (29.019 ± 2.073 ng/mL) in MDD patients compared to HCs (911.11 ± 20.55 pg/mL and 48.065 ± 3.583 ng/mL, respectively). No associations between serum levels of IL-3 and lipocalin-2 and depression severity were observed in patients.

Conclusions
According to the present findings, alterations of serum IL-3 and lipocalin might be associated with the pathogenesis of MDD. These results support that altered serum neurochemicals can serve as early risk assessment markers for depression. Further interventional studies are recommended for a better understanding of the role of IL-3 and lipocalin-2 in the pathophysiology of depression.
Usefulness of the autism spectrum quotient (AQ) in screening for autism spectrum disorder and social communication disorder
Authors: Yoshinaga Kiyohiro , Egawa Jun , Watanabe Yuichiro , Kasahara Hiroyuki , Sugimoto Atsunori , Someya Toshiyuki 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual and Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and social (pragmatic) communication disorder (SCD) were described as a new category of psychiatry nosography. SCD involves impairments in social communication and social interaction but not restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The autism spectrum quotient (AQ) was developed to screen for autism tendencies in adults with normal intelligence. However, AQ cutoff scores for screening ASD and SCD in the DSM-5 have not been established. This study examined whether the Japanese version of the AQ (AQ-J) total scores could discriminate between an ASD group, an SCD group, and a neurotypical (NT) group.

Methods
Participants were 127 ASD patients, 52 SCD patients, and 49 NT individuals. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to examine AQ-J total score cutoff values to distinguish between ASD and NT groups, SCD and NT groups, and ASD and SCD groups.

Results
In the ROC analysis for the ASD and NT groups, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.96, and the optimum cutoff value was 23 points (sensitivity 92.9%, specificity 85.7%). The AUC for the SCD and NT groups was 0.89, and the optimum cutoff value was 22 points (sensitivity 84.6%, specificity 85.7%). The AUC for the ASD and SCD groups was 0.75; the optimum cutoff value was 32 points (sensitivity 67.7%, specificity 71.2%).

Conclusion
Our findings suggest the usefulness of the AQ-J in screening for ASD and SCD.
Analysis of the evolving factors of social media users’ emotions and behaviors: a longitudinal study from China’s COVID-19 opening policy period
Authors: Zhang Qiaohe , Yang Jinhua , Niu Tianyue , Wen Kuo-Hsun , Hong Xinhui , Wu YuChen , Wang Min 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered citizen panic and social crises worldwide. The Chinese government was the first to implement strict prevention and control policies. However, in December 2022, the Chinese government suddenly changed its prevention and control policies and completely opened up. This led to a large-scale infection of the epidemic in a short period of time, which will cause unknown social impacts. This study collected 500+ epidemic-related hotspots and 200,000+ data from November 1, 2022, to March 1, 2023. Using a sentiment classification method based on pre-trained neural network models, we conducted inductive analysis and a summary of high-frequency words of various emotions. This study focuses on the inflection point of the emotional evolution of social media users and the evolution of “hot topic searches” events and emotional behavioral factors after the sudden open policy. Our research results show that, first of all, the positive emotions of social media users are divided into 4 inflection points and 5 time periods, and the negative emotions are divided into 3 inflection points and 4 time periods. Behavioral factors are different at each stage of each emotion. And the evolution patterns of positive emotions and negative emotions are also different. Secondly, the evolution of behavioral elements deserves more attention. Continue to pay attention: The treatment of diseases, the recovery of personal health, the promotion of festive atmosphere, and the reduction of publicity on the harm of “new crown sequelae and second infections” are the behavioral concerns that affect users’ emotional changes. Finally, it is necessary to change the “hot topic searches” event by guiding the user’s behavioral focus to control the inflection point of the user’s emotion. This study helps governments and institutions understand the dynamic impact of epidemic policy changes on social media users, thereby promoting policy formulation and better coping with social crises.
Beyond the scars: a qualitative study on the experiences of mastectomy among young women with breast cancer in a country with crisis
Authors: Hasan Shaza , Chew Keng Sheng , Balang Rekaya Vincent , Wong Shirly Siew Ling 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
As breast cancer incidence rises among younger women, there is a knowledge gap regarding the emotional, physical, and social effects of mastectomy, specifically in a crisis-affected country such as Syria. This study aimed to explore these effects on young women with breast cancer in Syria, taking into consideration the cultural significance of a woman’s breast as part of her feminine identity.

Methods
A qualitative design, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 10 young women with breast cancer who underwent mastectomy, was conducted between June to December 2022.

Results
Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, and five main themes were identified: (1) psychological and emotional well-being (altered self-esteem and femininity, impact on sexual life and relationships, psychological distress associated with mastectomy, mirror trauma and the need for psychological care); (2) body image and breast reconstruction (the dilemma over reconstruction decision, body image and clothing and lack of access to prosthetic information/services); (3) social and interpersonal factors (lack of marriage choices and society’s view and stigma); (4) coping mechanisms with mastectomy effects (family support; faith in god almighty; comparing their situation to others and use of prosthetics) and (5) physical health and functioning (physical effects on mobility and function).

Conclusion
Mastectomy has significant physical, emotional, and social consequences on young women with breast cancer, particularly in crisis-affected Syria where access to breast reconstruction is limited. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to understand these impacts, to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and promote less aggressive treatments to improve women’s quality of life.
Patients’ and providers’ perspectives on the decision to undergo non-urgent egg freezing: a needs assessment
Authors: Dason E. Shirin , Drost Leah , Greenblatt Ellen M. , Scheer Adena , Han Jinglan , Doshi Tanya , Jones Claire A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Previous research has demonstrated that patients have difficulty with the decision to undergo non-urgent egg freezing (EF). This study aimed to investigate the decisional difficulties and possible decisional support mechanisms for patients considering EF, and for their providers.

Methods
This qualitative study involved a needs assessment via individual interviews. Participants included patients considering EF at one academic fertility clinic and providers from across Canada who counsel patients considering EF. 25 participants were included (13 providers and 12 patients). The interview guide was developed according to the Ottawa Decision Support Framework. Interviews were transcribed, and transcripts analyzed for themes and concepts using NVIVO 12.

Findings
Multiple factors contributing to decisional difficulty were identified, including: (1) multiple reproductive options available with differing views from patients/providers regarding their importance; (2) a decision typically made under the pressure of reproductive aging; (3) uncertainty surrounding the technology/inadequate outcome data; (4) the financial burden of EF; (5) inherent uncertainty relating to potential decision regret; and (6) differing perceptions between patients/providers regarding the role providers should play in the decision. Additionally, potential sources of decisional support were identified, including provision of basic information before and/or during initial consultation, followed by an opportunity during or after initial consultation for clarifying information and helping with value judgements. Individualized counselling based on patient values, adequate follow-up, psychosocial counselling, and peer support were also emphasized.

Conclusions
More decisional support for women considering EF is needed. Suggestions include a patient decision aid in conjunction with modified healthcare provider counselling, support and follow up.
“The project did not come to us with a solution”: Perspectives of research teams on implementing a study about electronic health record-embedded individualized pain plans for emergency department treatment of vaso-occlusive episodes in adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Baumann Ana A. , Hankins Jane S. , Hsu Lewis L. , Gibson Robert W. , Richardson Lynne D. , Treadwell Marsha , Glassberg Jeffrey A. , Bourne Sarah , Luo Lingzi , Masese Rita V. , Demartino Terri , Nocek Judith , Taaffe Elizabeth , Gollan Sierra , Ruiz Ome-Ollin , Nwosu Chinonyelum , Qashou Nai , James Aimee S. , Tanabe Paula , King Allison A. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundThis study aimed to capture the implementation process of the ALIGN Study, (An individualized Pain Plan with Patient and Provider Access for Emergency Department care of Sickle Cell Disease). ALIGN aimed to embed Individualized Pain Plans in the electronic health record (E-IPP) and provide access to the plan for both adult patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and emergency department providers when a person with SCD comes to the emergency department in vaso-occlusive crises.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with research teams from the 8 participating sites from the ALIGN study. Seventeen participants (principal investigators and study coordinators) shared their perspectives about the implementation of ALIGN in their sites. Data were analyzed in three phases using open coding steps adapted from grounded theory and qualitative content analysis.ResultsA total of seven overarching themes were identified: (1) the E-IPP structure (location and upkeep) and collaboration with the informatics team, (2) the role of ED champion, (3) the role of research coordinators, (4) research team communication, and communication between research team and clinical team, (5) challenges with the study protocol, (6) provider feedback: addressing over-utilizers, patient mistrust, and the positive feedback about the intervention, and (7) COVID-19 and its effects on study implementation.ConclusionsFindings from this study contribute to learning how to implement E-IPPs for adult patients with SCD in ED. The study findings highlight the importance of early engagement with different team members, a champion from the emergency department, study coordinators with different skills and enhancement of communication and trust among team members. Further recommendations are outlined for hospitals aiming to implement E-IPP for patients with SCD in ED.
Circulating cell-free DNA fragmentation is a stepwise and conserved process linked to apoptosis
Authors: Zhu Dandan , Wang Haihong , Wu Wei , Geng Shuaipeng , Zhong Guolin , Li Yunfei , Guo Han , Long Guanghui , Ren Qingqi , Luan Yi , Duan Chaohui , Wei Bing , Ma Jie , Li Shiyong , Zhou Jun , Mao Mao 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is a pool of short DNA fragments mainly released from apoptotic hematopoietic cells. Nevertheless, the precise physiological process governing the DNA fragmentation and molecular profile of cfDNA remains obscure. To dissect the DNA fragmentation process, we use a human leukemia cell line HL60 undergoing apoptosis to analyze the size distribution of DNA fragments by shallow whole-genome sequencing (sWGS). Meanwhile, we also scrutinize the size profile of plasma cfDNA in 901 healthy human subjects and 38 dogs, as well as 438 patients with six common cancer types by sWGS.

Results
Distinct size distribution profiles were observed in the HL60 cell pellet and supernatant, suggesting fragmentation is a stepwise process. Meanwhile, C-end preference was seen in both intracellular and extracellular cfDNA fragments. Moreover, the cfDNA profiles are characteristic and conserved across mammals. Compared with healthy subjects, distinct cfDNA profiles with a higher proportion of short fragments and lower C-end preference were found in cancer patients.

Conclusions
Our study provides new insight into fragmentomics of circulating cfDNA processing, which will be useful for early diagnosis of cancer and surveillance during cancer progression.
CHOP upregulation and dysregulation of the mature form of the SNAT2 amino acid transporter in the placentas from small for gestational age newborns
Authors: Barroso Emma , Díaz Marta , Reguera Ana Cristina , Peyman Mona , Balsinde Jesús , Jurado-Aguilar Javier , Zhang Meijian , Rostami Adel , Palomer Xavier , Ibáñez Lourdes , Vázquez-Carrera Manuel 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
The placentas from newborns that are small for gestational age (SGA; birth weight < -2 SD for gestational age) may display multiple pathological characteristics. A key determinant of fetal growth and, therefore, birth weight is placental amino acid transport, which is under the control of the serine/threonine kinase mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). The effects of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress on the mTOR pathway and the levels of amino acid transporters are not well established.

Methods
Placentas from SGA and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) newborns and the human placental BeWo cell line exposed to the ER stressor tunicamycin were used.

Results
We detected a significant increase in the levels of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) in the placentas from SGA newborns compared with those from AGA newborns, while the levels of other ER stress markers were barely affected. In addition, placental mTOR Complex 1 (mTORC1) activity and the levels of the mature form of the amino acid transporter sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter 2 (SNAT2) were also reduced in the SGA group. Interestingly, CHOP has been reported to upregulate growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible protein 34 (GADD34), which in turn suppresses mTORC1 activity. The GADD34 inhibitor guanabenz attenuated the increase in CHOP protein levels and the reduction in mTORC1 activity caused by the ER stressor tunicamycin in the human placental cell line BeWo, but it did not recover mature SNAT2 protein levels, which might be reduced as a result of defective glycosylation.

Conclusions
Collectively, these data reveal that GADD34A activity and glycosylation are key factors controlling mTORC1 signaling and mature SNAT2 levels in trophoblasts, respectively, and might contribute to the SGA condition.
Healthy eating and active living policy, systems, and environmental changes in rural Louisiana: a contextual inquiry to inform implementation strategies
Authors: Houghtaling Bailey , Balis Laura , Pradhananga Nila , Cater Melissa , Holston Denise 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Healthy eating and active living policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes are implemented across the United States through Cooperative Extension. However, translating multisector PSE changes to practice in community settings is challenging and there is a lack of knowledge about barriers and facilitators to PSE changes among state Extension systems using standardized frameworks. Therefore, a research-to-practice partnership effort aimed to identify Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service Family and Consumer Science (LFCS) practitioners’ barriers and facilitators to implementing PSE changes in rural Louisiana communities.

Methods
A qualitative approach using the 2022 Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (2022 CFIR) was used. Focus group discussions were conducted at five LFCS regional trainings between February and May 2022. All LFCS practitioners with any level of experience implementing healthy eating and active living PSE changes were eligible to participate, with emphasis on understanding efforts within more rural communities. Focus group discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Researchers analyzed qualitative data using the constant comparison method and 2022 CFIR domains and constructs including Inner Setting (LFCS organization), Outer Setting (rural Louisiana communities), Innovation (PSE changes), and Individuals (PSE change implementation actors/partners).

Results
Across the five regions, LFCS practitioners (n = 40) described more barriers (n = 210) than facilitators (n = 100); findings were often coded with multiple 2022 CFIR domains. Reported Inner Setting barriers were lack of formal or informal information sharing and lack of access to knowledge and information. Outer Setting barriers included sustaining and initiating community partnerships and local environmental or political conditions. Individual barriers included a lack of time and expertise, and Innovation barriers included the complex nature of rural PSE changes. Facilitators were mentioned at multiple levels and included community partner buy-in and practitioners’ motivation to implement PSE changes.

Conclusions
Implementation strategies are needed to build on organizational strengths and to overcome multi-level barriers to PSE change implementation among LFCS practitioners. The results from the in-depth contextual inquiry used could serve as a guide for future pragmatic assessment efforts among other state Extension systems or as a model for identifying barriers and facilitators and associated implementation strategies among other public health systems in the U.S. and abroad.
Qualitative study of barriers and facilitators to HIV detection and treatment among women who inject drugs during the war against Ukraine
Authors: Karagodina Olena , Kovtun Oksana , Filippovych Myroslava , Neduzhko Oleksandr 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
The Russian Federation’s invasion in Ukraine has resulted social hardship, millions of internally displaced persons, the destruction of medical infrastructure, and limited access to HIV services. There is no available information regarding the impact of the war on the HIV treatment cascade among women who inject drugs (WWID) in Ukraine. In this study, we examine the barriers and facilitators of HIV detection, initiation of treatment, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among WWID.

Methods
During the in-depth interviews, participants were queried about their needs for HIV testing, treatment and related services, as well as barriers to HIV testing, initiation and retention on ART, including organizational barriers and changes in existing preventive and treatment programs. Thematic content analysis was used to employed to derive the results.

Results
From August to September 2022, we conducted in-depth interviews among 38 WWID in Kryvyi Rih, Kyiv, and in the Ivano-Frankivsk and Odesa regions of Ukraine. The most persistent personal facilitator for HIV detection, ART initiation, and retention in services was a combination of several factors, including strong ties with relatives and a sense of responsibility for loved ones, support from the family, willingness to cooperate with specialists, a higher level of education, and a relatively prosperous financial situation. Barriers such as war-related stress and disruptions to healthcare facilities are directly linked to the ongoing war. The influence of other barriers (fear of discovering the presence of the disease, potential social restrictions, and drug use) was universal and only indirectly related to the state of war. The majority of WWID provided positive assessments of the quality of work and the availability of preventive HIV services.

Conclusion
The ongoing war against Ukraine continues to have a detrimental impact on all aspects of the population’s life, particularly affecting WWID. Providers of HIV services must make every effort to sustain and optimize these services, taking into account the evolving context and new requirements. The changing life situation and shifting priorities of WWID necessitate a dynamic and comprehensive assessment of existing challenges.
Periarticular infiltration used in total joint replacements: an update and review article
Authors: King Gavin Anthony , Le Alexander , Nickol Michaela , Sarkis Bianca , van der Merwe Johannes Michiel 
Published: November 2023

AbstractPeriarticular infiltration following total knee and hip arthroplasty has been demonstrated to be equivalent to peripheral nerve blocks for postoperative pain management. The ideal cocktail has not been established yet. We have conducted a literature search on PubMed and Embase. Our search criteria included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews (SRs). We tried to only include the most recent studies to keep the information current. The included research focused at Dexmedetomidine, Liposomal Bupivacaine, Ropivacaine, Epinephrine, Ketorolac, Morphine, Ketamine and Glucocorticosteroids. Each medication’s mode of action, duration, ideal dosage, contraindications, side effects and effectiveness have been summarized in the review article. This article will help the clinician to make an informed evidence-based decision about which medications to include in their ideal cocktail.