bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An exploration of Northern Ireland general practice pharmacists’ views on their role in general practice: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Hassan Abrar H. F. , Barry Heather E. , Hughes Carmel M. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: There is a lack of research examining the views of general practice pharmacists (GPPs) on their role and their impact in general practice. The aim of this study was to explore GPPs’ views regarding this role and its potential impact within general practice in Northern Ireland (NI).
Methods: A paper-based self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 319 general practices in NI in 2022, directed to the GPP who spent most time at the practice. A variety of closed and open questions were included in six sections. Responses to closed questions were analysed descriptively whilst open question responses were analysed using content analysis. To ascertain associations between variables (e.g. GPP prescribing status, working arrangements and aspects of collaboration with GPPs), Fisher's exact test was employed with an a priorisignificance level of p<0.05.
Results: 155 responses were received equating to a response rate of 48.5%. Most participants (72.3%) were female, independent prescribers (71%), and 64.5% were currently using their independent prescriber qualification. Services that were provided by most GPPs were medication reconciliation (99.4%) and medication reviews (97.4%). The most common method of communication between GPPs and general practitioners (GPs) was face-to-face (89.0%). Telephone was the most common method of communication between GPPs, community pharmacists (97.4%) and patients (98.7%). Most GPPs (>80%) showed positive attitudes towards collaboration with GPs and those who worked in multiple practices were more likely to agree with the Attitudes Towards Collaboration Instrument for pharmacists (ATCI-P) statements compared to those who worked in a single practice (p<0.05). Less than 40% (36.8%) of GPPs agreed that patients were aware of the role they provided. The majority of GPPs (80.6%) expressed positive views on their impact on primary care. Analysis of the free-text comments revealed the need for more GPP patient-facing activities, GPP-specific training, and promotion of the GPP role.
Conclusion: The findings indicated that GPPs had largely positive views about their role and their impact on primary care. The results may be helpful for practices and service commissioners. Further research is necessary to explore the perspectives of patients regarding the role of the GPP and to enhance patients’ awareness of the GPP.
Comprehensive epidemiological analyses of urinary stone diseases in China: a population- based study
Authors: Wang Dawei , Zhan Yongle , Zhang Ning , Huang Da , Huang Jingyi , Huang Jinlun , Zhu Yu , Ho Brian Sze-Ho , Ng Ada Tsui-Lin , Tsu James Hok-Leung , Ruan Xiaohao , Na Rong 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Backgrounds: Urinary stone disease (USD, or urolithiasis) is common and poses a significant healthcare burden and health economic burden in a working-age population.
We aim to provide epidemiological insights into the prevalence, incidence, trends, and risk factors of USD among the Chinese population.
Methods: A prospective cohort study of 966,481 participants from the CHinese Electronic health Records Research during 2009-2022 in Yinzhou, China (CHERRY). Temporal trends were estimated by annual percentage changes (APC) using Joinpoint regression analyses. A stratified Cox proportional hazards regression and propensity score analyses were used to assess the effect of potential risk factors, population attribution factor (PAF) and number needed to prevent (NNTP).
Results: Between 2014/2015 and 2021, there was an annualized increase in USD incidence by 5.3-6.8% (P<0.05). Tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, high body mass index, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and heart disease were identified as risk factors while regular exercising was a protective factor of USD. PAF ranged from 22.5% in regular exercising (weekly) to 1.3% in non-drinking behavior. NNTP ranged from 21 in weekly exercising to 182 in non-smoking behavior.
Conclusions: USD is a common disease affecting about 1 in 10 Chinese, and the incidence increased by 5-6% annually over the past 6-7 years. Lifestyle factors and metabolic symptoms are potential risk factors for USD.
Potential Environmental Impact of Mycelium Composites on African Communities
Authors: Eichhorn Stephen , Akromah Stefania , Chandarana Neha , Rowlandson Jemma 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The ecological and economic benefits of mycelium composites offer a promising opportunity for supporting sustainable development in Africa. This study focuses on assessing the environmental impact of mycelium composites for building and construction (MCBs) by conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA) in the context of Africa. It is demonstrated that the potential environmental impact of MCBs is substantially influenced by the use and source of electrical power for autoclaves, incubators, and ovens, making the culturing and post-processing phases the major environmental hotspots. The impact of MCB production is also relative to the energy mix of specific countries, being higher in countries that rely on fossil fuel energy (e.g., South Africa) and lower in those that rely more on renewable sources (e.g., Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC). Furthermore, the impact of MCB production is found to be sensitive to travel distance, suggesting that situating production facilities closer to agricultural, agro-industrial, and/or forestry waste sources could be more beneficial than interregional sourcing, for example. It is also demonstrated that MCBs have the potential to be a more ecologically sustainable alternative to some conventional construction materials (e.g., concrete) over an entire life cycle. Based on the insights obtained from this LCA, some recommendations have been proposed to address potential environmental repercussions pre-emptively and proactively: this is especially crucial for countries (mostly in the Global South) that may be challenged in resolving catastrophic environmental degradation due to financial constraints. Furthermore, with the rapid expansion of mycelium composite technology, there is a need to increase awareness about its potential environmental impact and, ultimately, to mitigate its potential contribution to pressing environmental concerns (e.g., global warming and climate change). Consequently, this study also adds to the existing body of literature on LCA studies, delineating key factors for consideration in future LCA studies and providing guidance for the sustainable establishment and expansion of this technology.
One-pot synthesis of unusual gold(I) cluster [Au 7 (Ph 3 P) 7 @C] 2+ in the presence of the macropolyhedral octadecahydro-eicosaborate anion [B 20 H 18 ] 2–
Authors: Avdeeva Varvara V. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Novikov Valentin V. , Buzanov Grigorii A. , Malinina Еlena А. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The reaction between [Au(Ph3P)Cl] and [B20H18]2– in DMF gave unprecedented heptanuclear cationic cluster [Au7(Ph3P)7@C]2+ isolated as [Au7(Ph3P)7@C][B20H18][Au(Ph3P)Cl]·0.5DMF in one step. The final compound was studied by 11B NMR and IR spectroscopies, ESI MS, single-crystal and powder X-ray diffractions. No special reagents were used to obtain central carbon atom in the cluster [Au7(Ph3P)7@C]2+.
Interventions of Exercise Therapy for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Comparative Study of Effects
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Yidan , Dong Kunwei , Kuan Garry 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: The cost of medical care for low back pain is a heavy financial burden for patients and has become a common social health issue that affects people of all ages and professions.
Objective：To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of different types of exercise therapy in treating chronic non-specific low back pain, and provide decision support for patients, medical professionals, and decision-makers to choose the most suitable exercise therapy to reduce pain, improve function, and reduce medical expenses.
Methods: Data was sourced from electronic databases including PubMed, China Knowledge Network (CNKI), China Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), and Wanfang Data (WD). The search targeted studies focused on exercise therapy as a treatment for chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) conducted within the timeframe spanning five years, from 2018 to 2022. The selection process encompassed published literature, excluding studies deemed of low relevance, ultimately culminating in the inclusion of 26 pertinent papers.
Results: Different exercise modalities have shown clinical effectiveness for lumbopelvic stability exercise、spinal stabilization exercise training, etc., with superior efficacy for increasing muscle strength, enhancing spinal or lumbar stability, and increasing the thickness of core stabilising muscles. However, exercise therapies like McKenzie therapy (MDT), Motor Control Exercise（MCE）, Sling Exercise Therapy（SET）, and physical education (PE) are more helpful in restoring posture and function, improving neuromuscular control, and correcting delayed muscle activation than they are in increasing muscle thickness. Second, yoga activities have been found to help with pain management, emotional regulation, psychological control, and sleep problems.
Conclusions: Although there are differences in the clinical effectiveness of various exercise therapies for the management of CNLBP, yet all of these exercise interventions have significant efficacy for managing low back pain and are safe, simple to use, and affordable. This is crucial for reducing medical costs and warrants widespread promotion.The potential of exercise therapy in the treatment of CNLBP, healthcare professionals and patients choose appropriate exercise modalities based on individual needs to improve quality of life and reduce pain
Can blood and urine protein electrophoresis predict 1-year mortality in acute renal failure?
Authors: Yilmaz Deniz , Sahin Ezgi , Batar Gizem , Caglayan Koray , Gulturk Emine , Yoldemir Sengul Aydin 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background and objectives: This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the predictive value of protein fractions obtained from blood and urine protein electrophoresis, along with various clinical and laboratory parameters, for 1-year all-cause mortality in acute renal failure (ARF) patients.
Methods: Data were collected from hospitalized patients who had been diagnosed with ARF. Demographics, smoking status, blood and urine electrophoresis results, serum gamma globulin levels, monoclonal gammopathy status, immunofixation results, serum free kappa (κ) and lambda (λ), and urine κ and λ levels were measured in addition to routine biochemistry and complete blood counts. In addition, serum free κ-to-λ ratio and urine κ-to-λ ratio were calculated. The primary endpoint was 1-year all-cause mortality and its association with electrophoresis-obtained data.
Results: Among the 295 patients included in the analyses, 65 (22.03%) experienced mortality, with higher mean age (72.75 ± 13.51) compared to the survival group (62.58 ± 16.59) (p<0.001). Sex distribution showed no significant difference between groups. No significant disparities were observed in electrophoresis parameters and other laboratory values. Multivariable logistic regression showed that high age (OR: 1.038, 95% CI: 1.016-1.062, p=0.001) and low albumin (OR: 0.450, 95% CI: 0.263-0.770, p=0.004) were independent predictors of mortality.
Conclusion: We find that the evidence gathered in the present study is insufficient to recommend the use of blood and urine protein fractions for diagnostic or prognostic purposes in patients with ARF. Nonetheless, the current data showing some notable variations in urine κ and λ levels suggest that further studies are warranted to explore this relationship.
Effects of different obturation techniques on postoperative pain and radiographic healing non surgical endodontic retreatment in single visit in teeth with single root canals and apical periodontitis: Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: IŞIK Merve , AYDIN Zeliha UĞUR 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Objective
Evaluation of the effect of different obturation techniques on postoperative pain level and radiographic healing on non-surgical endodontic retreatment (NSER) applied in a single visit in teeth with single root canal and apical periodontitis (AP).
Materials and Methods
63 teeth from 50 systemically healthy patients (mean age 34.19 ± 9.75 years; 27 women, 23 men) were included in the study. Residual root canal filling materials were removed all teeth were randomly divided into three groups according to the obturation technique; cold lateral compaction (CLC), continuous wave compaction (CWC), and thermoplasticized gutta-core (TGC). In all cases, pain status were evaluated using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NRS). Periapical index (PAI) scores were recorded on preoperative and postoperative 6-month on the periapical radiographs. Data were analyzed as statistically (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). Significance level was determined as p < 0.05.
Results
It was found that more postoperative pain occurred in the 3rd-hour interval after CLC and CWC compared to the 7th day interval (p < 0.05). There was no difference in postoperative pain between obturation techniques in all evaluated time intervals (p > 0.05). There was no difference the PAI scores recorded at 6-months between obturation tecniques for all periods (p > 0.05). Similar radiographic improvement was observed in all obturation techniques at 6-months (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
CLC, CWC, and TGC root canal obturation techniques were found to have similar efficacy after NSER in single visit in teeth with AP at 6-months.
Clinical relevance:
Results of the current study, different filling techniques applied did not affect the NSER results.
Factors associated with vulvovaginal candidiasis and antifungal susceptibility patterns among nonpregnant women attending the gynecology clinic at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital: A cross-sectional study.
Authors: Mtende Luc M'mebwa , Kasujja Musa , Simba Lionel Musafiri , Bataringaya Geoffrey , Cikuru Rodrigue Buhendwa , W’Ehusha Lubunga , Kratzer Timothy , Otuu Bosco Okello , Wamboko Isaac Kusulo , Eilu Emmanuel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Approximately 75% of women experience vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) at least once during their lifetime. Candida normally exists as a harmless commensal in the vaginal epithelial tissues of hosts, but various factors, such as antibiotics, diabetes, bacterial vaginosis, prior vaginal infections, and age, can render it pathogenic. The factors associated with VVC exhibit regional variations influenced by sociodemographic characteristics and other elements. In Uganda, there is increasing resistance to conventional antifungal drugs (fluconazole and itraconazole) among pregnant women infected with non-Albicans species. This research delves into the prevalence, associated factors, and antifungal sensitivity patterns of VVC among 278 women who sought care at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital (HRRH) in Uganda.
Methods
A cross-sectional design involving 288 nonpregnant women was employed, and questionnaires and laboratory analyses were used. Descriptive statistics, chi-square analysis, and logistic regression were used for data analysis.
Results
This research revealed a prevalence of VVC of 27.70%, revealing significant associations between VVC and age, HIV status, hormonal contraceptive use, and prior VVC occurrence. The antifungal sensitivity patterns highlighted the necessity for tailored treatment strategies based on local resistance profiles.
Conclusion
This study revealed a high prevalence of VVC. Patients aged between 21 and 34 years, HIV-positive patients, and those with previous episodes of VVC were the most affected. On the other hand, Candida species were more sensitive to amphotericin B but less sensitive to miconazole and griseofulvin.
Exploring the Applicability of a Multifactor Mindfulness Scale in Chinese College Context
Authors: Zhang Dan , Shen Jianbo , Ma Hongyu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: Owing to the lack of a precise and comprehensive mindfulness measurement tool capable of capturing all facets of mindfulness, developing such an assessment tool has become an intriguing and worthwhile area of exploration. This study investigates the applicability of a multifactor mindfulness scale to Chinese college students. In particular, it tests the applicability of the Chinese version of the Comprehensive Inventory of Mindfulness Experiences (CHIME) in college students.
Methods: Prior to the formal test, 410 subjects completed the CHIME-37. The feedback received from this pretest was used to obtain the final descriptions. During the formal assessment, 1927 subjects participated, and 490 students were retested two months later. The criteria-related validity of the CHIME-37 was assessed using instruments such as the subjective well-being scale, psychological well-being scale, peace of mind scale, self-reflection and insight scale, emotion regulation scale, depression-anxiety-stress scale, and sickness questionnaire.
Results: The sample was randomly divided into two halves. In the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of Sample 1 (n = 838), CHIME comprised 8 factors: 1) Awareness of internal experiences, 2) Awareness of external experiences, 3) Mindful action, 4) Acceptance and non-judgment, 5) Decentering and non-reactivity, 6) Experiential openness, 7) Relativity of thoughts and reality, and 8) Insightful understanding. The cumulative variance accounted for 70.696%. Confirmatory factor, criterion-related validity, and internal consistency analyses were conducted on the randomly split 947 samples for validation. Confirmatory factor analysis of Sample 2 confirmed the 8-factor model (x2/df = 1.751, CFI = 0.981, TLI = 0.979, RMSEA = 0.028). The internal consistency coefficients of the eight dimensions range from 0.848 to 0.914, with test-retest reliabilities ranging from 0.746 to 0.885, and split-half reliabilities ranging from 0.795 to 0.898. Total scores and scores on the eight dimensions are significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being, psychological well-being, emotion stability, and cognitive reappraisal (P < 0.01), while they are negatively correlated with physical and mental illnesses, depression-anxiety-stress, and expressive inhibition (P < 0.01).
Conclusion: The revised version of the CHIME demonstrates robust reliability and validity, establishing it as a suitable tool for measuring the mindfulness levels of Chinese college students.
Vitamin D deficiency and TSH level, a relationship in nonautoimmune hypothyroidism pediatrics
Authors: MohammadTaheri Mohadeseh , Kazemi Seyed Alinaghi , Ahmadi Farzane , Hadiloo Kaveh , Molaei Ziba 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background and purpose: Vitamin D has a crucial role in the organs' function and is essential for specific populations like pediatrics. Indeed, the thyroid function correlates with the Vitamin D level in the body, so the consequences of this depletion are very important. In non-autoimmune hypothyroidism, the Vitamin D level influences the thyroid function which could be tracked with thyroid stimulating hormone.Design and methods:In this cross-sectional study, among 2,503 children aged three to 18 who were referred to the pediatrics endocrinology and metabolic clinic in Zanjan city in 2022-2023, 102 children with non-autoimmune hypothyroidism who did not have a history of other diseases or the use of drugs affecting thyroid function in last three months were selected and entered this study. Data were analyzed by IBM SPSS 24 using binary logistic regression.Results:The mean (standard deviation) vitamin D level in the study population was 27.66 (13.17) ng/ml, with a deficiency prevalence of 63.7%. The odds of vitamin D deficiency significantly increased 70 percent with one unit (mIU)/liter (L) increasing in TSH (OR=1.70, CI 95%:1.19-2.43, P= 0.003. However, weight, height, sex, age, body mass index, and season had no statistically significant relationship.Conclusions:The level of vitamin D and TSH level have a positive correlation in non-autoimmune hypothyroidism pediatric patients. Indeed, the correcting vitamin D deficiently reduces the TSH level. So, we can use vitamin D supplements along with other treatments in treating hypothyroidism.
Understanding Maternal Ethnomedical Folklore in Central Uganda: a cross-sectional study of herbal remedies for managing Postpartum hemorrhage, inducing Uterine contractions and Abortion in Najjembe sub-county, Buikwe district
Authors: Nabatanzi Alice , Walusansa Abdul , Karume Ibrahim 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Pregnant women in rural Uganda largely rely on medicinal plants for inducing labor, treating postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), and inducing abortion. Ninety percent of the women in both rural and urban Uganda use plants to manage pregnancy symptoms like constipation, heartburn, morning sickness, body aches, nausea, and vomiting. After delivery women continue using plants to manage postpartum complications and for infant care especially herbal baths. This study documented how ethnomedical folklore aids childbirth, treats postpartum hemorrhage and abortion.
Methods:
A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted from May – December 2024 in Najjemebe sub-county, Buikwe district. 206 respondents from 12 villages were selected using snowball sampling. Key informants included Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and herbalists. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Voucher specimens of the plants were identified and authenticated at Makerere University Herbarium. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Informant Consensus factor (ICF), Use Reports (URs), paired comparisons, and GraphPad Prism® version 9.0.0 software.
Results:
All respondents (N = 206, 100%), used plants to induce labour, treat PPH and induce abortion. One hundred four plant species were documented: most cited or preferred were: Hoslundia opposita (N = 109, 53%), Phytolacca dodecandra (N = 72, 35%), and Commelina erecta (N = 47, 23%). The plants belonged to 49 families, Lamiaceae (16.3%) and Fabaceae (14.3%) having the majority of the species. Herbs were 42 (40%) and trees 23 (22%). Oral administration 95(72%) was the commonest, then topical 19 (14.4%) and vaginal 14(10.6%).
Conclusion:
Health surveys revealed that about 27% of deliveries in Uganda take place outside a health facility. Due to the oxytocic effects of plant species reported in this study, they play a triple role of being uterotonics, abortifacients, and treating postpartum haemmorhage. The dilemma lies in the unknown dosages and toxicity levels that could endanger both the mother's and the unborn child's lives. Due to Uganda's high rates of population growth, overall fertility, maternal mortality, and morbidity, policies, and programmes on gendered health provision need to be reevaluated. Integrating herbal medicine into health care systems appears to be a feasible solution.