bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Migrants' living conditions, perceived health needs and implications for the use of antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance in the United Kingdom: A qualitative study
Authors: Nanakali Shajwan S. , Hassan Osama , Silva Luisa , Al‐Oraibi Amani , Chaloner Jonathan , Gogoi Mayuri , Qureshi Irtiza , Sahare Pankhuri , Pareek Manish , Chattopadhyay Kaushik , Nellums Laura B. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the top public health concerns around the globe. Migrants, especially forced migrants, could be at higher risk of acquiring and transmitting AMR during their journeys or in host countries. There is limited understanding regarding migrants' living conditions and the wider factors contributing to their risk of acquiring infections, and behaviors around antimicrobial use, and AMR development. In this study, we aimed to explore transit experiences, living conditions, and antibiotic use of migrants living in the United Kingdom.MethodsWe conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with 27 participants and identified five themes regarding migrants' journey and their living conditions during transit and after arriving in the United Kingdom, their access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and their use of antibiotics.ResultsMigrants, particularly forced migrants, experienced unfavorable living conditions, poor access to WASH, and challenges in accessing healthcare, which further contributed to health conditions like urinary and skin problems. Isolation and difficulty in accessing healthcare played significant roles in migrants' perceived need for storing and using antibiotics as a safety net.ConclusionThe findings highlight the need for coordinated and multilevel interventions to address these challenges and contribute toward tackling AMR and improving the health of this population group.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated optic neuritis in a post‐COVID‐19 infection patient
Authors: Zaini Mohamad Azlan , Mohd Zain Ayesha , Md Din Norshamsiah , Lam Chenshen 
Published: October 2023

AbstractPurposeSARS‐CoV‐2 viral infection affects multiple systems including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiac, and ophthalmic systems. We report a case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) related optic neuritis in a SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19) patient.MethodsCase report.ResultsA 36‐year‐old Malay gentleman with underlying hypertension presented with the first episode of bilateral progressively worsening blurred vision for 1 week associated with retrobulbar pain. There were no other neurological symptoms. He had fever a week before the eye symptoms and tested positive for COVID‐19. He received COVID‐19 booster vaccine a month before the disease onset. On examination, his vision was hand motion on right eye and 6/18 on left eye. Relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) was positive on right eye with abnormal optic nerve function tests. Anterior segments were unremarkable. Fundus examination showed bilateral optic disc swelling. MRI revealed multifocal hyperintense subcortical white matter lesions. Optic nerves appeared normal with no enhancement seen. Blood investigation showed a positive serum MOG antibody. Intravenous methylprednisolone was commenced followed by oral prednisolone after which his vision and ocular symptoms markedly improved. The oral prednisolone was tapered alongside addition of azathioprine. At 1 month, the disease was stable with no recurrence.ConclusionWhile optic neuritis has been associated with both COVID‐19 infection and vaccination, MOG IgG antibody‐mediated optic neuritis is also a possible manifestation. This type of optic neuritis associated with COVID‐19 infection does not show a similar pattern of frequent recurrences as seen in non‐COVID‐19 related optic neuritis.
A Randomized, Controlled Trial Comparing Diltiazem, Hydrochlorothiazide, and Their Combination in the Therapy of Essential Hypertension
Authors: Pool Peter E. , Applegate William B. , Woehler Thomas , Sandall Paul , Cady William J. 
Published: October 2023

Study Objectives. To compare the efficacy of combination therapy with sustained‐release diltiazem and hydrochlorothiazide (DTZ SR‐HCTZ) with that of monotherapy with DTZ SR, HCTZ, or placebo in the treatment of essential hypertension; and to determine whether the addition of a diuretic to diltiazem at apparent optimum doses of each agent significantly enhances their antihypertensive effects.Design. Multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group trial with a 6‐week treatment phase.Setting. Private and university‐based clinics.Patients and Participants. Subjects of either sex, ranging in age from 18–70 years, with a diagnosis of stable essential hypertension made from two consecutive weekly mean supine diastolic blood pressure (DBP) readings of 95 mm Hg or above to 110 mm Hg or less that varied 7 mm Hg or less after 4–6 weeks in the baseline phase. Of the patients enrolled, 298 met the inclusion criteria.Interventions. Combination therapy with DTZ SR‐HCTZ 120 mg‐12.5 mg, or monotherapy with DTZ SR 120 mg or HCTZ 12.5 mg, or placebo was administered twice daily.Measurements and Main Results. Combination therapy with DTZ SR‐HCTZ lowered both supine DBP and SBP significantly (p<0.005) more than either single agent. The combination also lowered DBP and SBP significantly more than either monotherapy. During a 12‐hour in‐clinic monitoring period spanning a dosing interval, both the combination and DTZ SR therapies maintained efficacy, whereas the antihypertensive effects of HCTZ dissipated after 8 hours. Treatment‐related adverse events for the combination and HCTZ were similar but slightly greater than those for DTZ SR and placebo.Conclusions. The addition of a diuretic to sustained‐release diltiazem produced an enhanced antihypertensive effect compared with monotherapy with either individual agent.
Effect of Simultaneous Didanosine Administration on Itraconazole Absorption in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: May D. Byron , Drew Richard H. , Yedinak Kimberly C. , Bartlett John A. 
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To investigate the effect of simultaneously administered didanosine (ddI) on the absorption of a single dose of itraconazole.Design. Randomized, crossover, unblinded single‐dose pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers. Comparisons of itraconazole alone and itraconazole with simultaneous ddI were performed on days 1 and 15.Setting. A university medical center.Patients. Seven healthy men and women. Six subjects (86%) completed the study; one was removed due to the development of a rash.Interventions. Volunteers received a single 200‐mg oral dose of itraconazole or itraconazole with concomitant oral ddI 300 mg (two 150‐mg tablets) dispersed in 240 ml water. Each regimen was separated by a 2‐week washout period. Serum samples were obtained frequently for 12 hours after the dose.Measurements and Main Results. Concentrations of itraconazole were determined using a microbiologic assay. Individual concentrations in serum versus time data were evaluated by linear regression analysis. Peak serum concentration and time to peak were determined by visual inspection of each individual's serum concentration‐time curve. A mean ± SD peak serum itraconazole concentration of 0.90 ± 0.30 μg/ml was observed at 3.0 ± 0.7 hours when itraconazole was administered alone, compared with undetectable levels in all patients during therapy with ddI.Conclusions. Simultaneous oral administration of ddI significantly decreases absorption of itraconazole. These drugs should not be administered concurrently.
Effect of Intravenous Fructose‐1,6‐Diphosphate on Myocardial Contractility in Patients With Left Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Munger Mark A. , Botti Robert E. , Grinblatt Michael A. , Kasmer Richard J. 
Published: October 2023

Study Objective. To examine the effects of fructose‐1,6‐diphosphate on myocardial performance using nuclear scintigraphy.Design. Prospective, randomized, single‐blind, parallel study.Setting. Urban teaching hospital clinical research center.Patients. Individuals with New York Heart Association functional class II—III heart failure (mild to moderate).Interventions. Subjects received either intravenous fructose‐1,6‐diphosphate 125 mg/kg or normal saline 1.3 ml/kg every 12 hours over 10 minutes for four consecutive doses. Left ventricular performance was assessed by radionuclide ventriculography at baseline and within 60 minutes after the fourth infusion. Vital signs were monitored throughout the study period.Measurements and Main Results. Fructose‐1,6‐diphosphate resulted in a modest 7% increase in left ventricular ejection fraction (p<0.05). Peak ejection rate and peak diastolic filling rate did not change significantly. There were no changes in blood pressure or heart rate with either fructose‐1,6‐diphosphate or placebo.Conclusions. Fructose‐1,6‐diphosphate produces a modest but significant increase in left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with mild to moderate heart failure.
Platelet‐Activating Factor Acetylhydrolase Activity in Bovine Seminal Plasma
Authors: PARKS JOHN E. , HOUGH SHELLEY R. 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACTPlatelet‐activating factor (PAF) is a potent signaling molecule that has been detected in mammalian sperm from several species. The biological function of sperm‐derived PAF and mechanisms controlling its production have not been clearly defined. In the remodeling pathway for PAF biosynthesis, PAF is produced by phos‐pholipase A2 hydrolysis of 1‐O‐alkyl phospholipids followed by acetylation by PAF acetyltransferase. PAF is inactivated by PAF acetylhydrolase. PAF acetylhydrolase activity has been detected recently in human seminal plasma, where it may play a role in regulating PAF production or content by sperm. The purpose of this study was to measure and partially characterize PAF acetylhydrolase in bovine seminal plasma. Acetylhydrolase activity was detected in seminal plasma, was linear with time and protein concentration, and had a specific activity of 122 nmol/minute/mg protein. The enzyme was cation independent and was not inhibited by phosphatidylcholine but was inhibited by p‐bromophenacylbromide and partially inhibited by phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride. Very little acetylhydrolase activity was detected in caudal epididymal fluid or caudal epididymal sperm. Enzyme activity associated with ejaculated sperm was largely removed by their centrifugation through Percoll and subsequent washing. These results demonstrate very high PAF acetylhydrolase activity in bovine seminal plasma. The enzyme appears to be of accessory gland origin and has properties similar to those of the enzyme from other sources.
Seminal Tract Washout: A New Diagnostic Tool in Complicated Cases of Male Infertility
Authors: COLPI GIOVANNI M. , NEGRI LUCIANO , SCROPPO FABRIZIO I. , GRUGNETTI CRISTINA , PATRIZIO PASQUALE 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The diagnosis of azoospermia or severe oligospermia that is made using conventional techniques (testicular biopsy, epididymal exploration, and vasovesiculography) may in some cases remain a dilemma. In such circumstances, post‐testicular causes of obstruction must be evaluated. Following the clinical experience acquired in a selected population of 150 severely infertile subjects, the total sperm count in the fluid obtained from the bladder after a seminal tract washout during vasovesiculography has proved to be a valid tool to diagnose the location of the (sub‐)obstruction in the seminal tract in complicated cases.Some representative cases are presented. In particular, seminal tract washout (STW) helps to identify functional distal seminal tract emptying disturbances and epididymal incomplete obstruction.
Transurethral Endoscopic Treatment of Distal Seminal Tract Obstruction
Authors: RUIZ‐CASTAÑÉ E. , VICENTE J. 
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The two distal obstructive pathologies of the seminal duct found at our center are ejaculatory duct obstruction and utriculocele. Between 1979 and 1993, we present a total of 22 cases, 13 cases of ejaculatory duct obstruction and nine of utriculocele. The usual manifestations include infertility, ejaculatory discomfort, testicular pain, perineal discomfort, and hematospermia. Also, symptoms of urinary obstruction and repeated urinary infections can be present.The preparatory evaluation studies are many and varied. Excellent images are obtained with transrectal echography. In cases associated with infertility, very low seminal volume is recorded (1 ml or less) with azoospermia or oligospermia. The semen fructose is either very low or absent altogether. The serum FSH is normal. The testicular biopsy is indicative of the conservation of the spermatogenesis. It is also of prime importance to check that there is no epididymal tubular rupture caused by increased pressure or by epididymitis because a combination of endoscopic surgery with epididymovasostomy would then be necessary. Seminal vesiculography indicates the level of obstruction.A high scrotal incision was made over the vas deferens and the vas cannulated with a 24‐gauge intravenous catheter into which methylene blue was injected while the prostatic urethra was monitored under direct vision endoscopically (chromo‐ejaculoscopy). Endoscopic resection was accomplished and appearance of the blue dye could be used as a measure of adequate resection.An improvement in semen volume was observed in 14 patients, and in two patients pregnancies were obtained by means of assisted reproduction techniques. There were no serious complications in any of the cases; only two patients suffered postsurgical epididymitis.
A unified DNA‐ and RNA‐based NGS strategy for the analysis of multiple types of variants at the dual nucleic acid level in solid tumors
Authors: Chen Huijuan , Wang Bing , Zhang Yiran , Shu Yingshuang , Dong Henan , Zhao Qian , Yang Chunyan , Li Jianji , Duan Xiaohong , Zhou Qiming 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundTargeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) is a powerful and suitable approach to comprehensively identify multiple types of variants in tumors. RNA‐based NGS is increasingly playing an important role in precision oncology. Both parallel and sequential DNA‐ and RNA‐based approaches are expensive, burdensome, and have long turnaround times, which can be impractical in clinical practice. A streamlined, unified DNA‐ and RNA‐based NGS approach is urgently needed in clinical practice.MethodsA DNA/RNA co‐hybrid capture sequencing (DRCC‐Seq) approach was designed to capture pre‐capture DNA and RNA libraries in a single tube and convert them into one NGS library. The performance of the DRCC‐Seq approach was evaluated by a panel of reference standards and clinical samples.ResultsThe average depth, DNA data ratio, capture ratio, and target coverage 250 (×) of the DNA panel data had a negative correlation with an increase in the proportion of RNA probes. The SNVs, indels, fusions, and MSI status were not affected by the proportion of RNA probes, but the copy numbers of the target genes were higher than expected in the standard materials, and many unexpected gene amplifications were found using D:R (1:2) and D:R (1:4) probe panels. The optimal ratio of DNA and RNA probes in the combined probe panel was 1:1 using the DRCC‐Seq approach. The DRCC‐Seq approach was feasible and reliable for detecting multiple types of variants in reference standards and real‐world clinical samples.ConclusionsThe DRCC‐Seq approach is more cost‐effective, with a shorter turnaround time and lower labor requirements than either parallel or sequential targeted DNA NGS and RNA NGS. It is feasible to identify multiple genetic variations at the DNA and RNA levels simultaneously in clinical practice.
Dose–response effects of resistance training on physical function in frail older Chinese adults: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lai Xiaoxing , Zhu Hongwei , Wu Zhao , Chen Baoyu , Jiang Qian , Du Hongdi , Huo Xiaopeng 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundEffective exercise for the frail elderly has been found to contribute to healthy aging; the corresponding relationship between intensity and volume of exercise and health effects remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the dose–response effects of resistance training on muscle strength and physical fitness in frail older adults.MethodsIn this randomized controlled trial, participants were randomized into seven groups: moderate‐volume low‐intensity, moderate‐volume moderate‐intensity, moderate‐volume high‐intensity, high‐volume low‐intensity, high‐volume moderate‐intensity, high‐volume high‐intensity and routine care, receiving 12 weeks of resistance training of different intensities and volumes of exercise. The outcomes were muscle strength (assessed by ergonomics force gauges) and physical fitness function (assessed by the 6‐min walking test [6MWT], the 30‐s sit‐to‐stand test [30sSTST] and the 8‐foot up‐and‐go test [8‐FUGT]) before and at 6 and 12 weeks of intervention.ResultsA total of 161 participants completed the exercise intervention. There were no significant differences in age, sex, height, body weight and body mass index among the seven groups. The exercise volume of resistance training showed linear relationships with muscle strength of the lower limbs, 30sSTST and 6MWT results and a non‐linear relationship with 8‐FUGT. Resistance training intensity was found to have a linear relationship with muscle strength of the lower limbs and 6MWT and non‐linear relationships with 30sSTST and 8‐FUGT. The mixed linear model analysis revealed that the lower limb muscle strength differed significantly before and during the intervention (W = 8571.5, Padj < 0.001), before and after the intervention (W = 6968, Padj = 0.001) and during and after the intervention (W = 2834.5, Padj < 0.001); that the 6MWT performance differed during and after the intervention (W = 3184, Padj < 0.001); and that the 30sSTST was different between before and during the intervention (W = 2350.5, Padj = 0.012) and between during and after the intervention (W = 2290.5, Padj = 0.045).ConclusionsResistance training was found to be associated with muscle strength and physical fitness in frail older adults in a dose‐dependent manner. High‐intensity resistance training could be more effective for improving the muscle strength of frail older adults, and the improvement of 6MWT performance was even higher. High‐volume resistance training significantly improved muscle strength, with even greater improvement in the 30sSTST and 6MWT performances. Both the intensity and volume of exercise were found to greatly value physical function in frail older adults. Low–moderate‐intensity resistance training and low–moderate‐volume resistance training also had some advantages in terms of safety, efficacy and acceptance in elderly with frailty.
Exploring and describing current behavioral and social sciences curricula in predoctoral dental programs
Authors: Wright Casey D. , Young Lance Brendan 
Published: October 2023

AbstractPurposeTo maintain accreditation status, predoctoral dental programs in the United States and Canada are required to train future dentists in the fundamentals of behavioral sciences. Each program independently determines how to fulfill this task, and little information exists on the consistency of training across programs. The purpose of this study was to identify the range of topics currently taught in predoctoral dental programs in the United States and Canada, who teaches them, and the modes of instruction and assessment.MethodsInvitations to complete an online survey were emailed to faculty responsible for, or familiar with, the behavioral sciences curricula at 75 predoctoral dental programs in the United States and Canada. Questions elicited information on behavioral sciences education at each program, including instructor background, topics taught, instructional and assessment methods, and sources of content.ResultsOf those invited, 27 (36%) completed surveys. Per the responses, prototypical behavioral sciences programs usually consist of didactic/lecture format teaching, mostly during the first 2 years of the predoctoral program, by a dentist who assesses students using multiple‐choice or true/false exams. The results indicated, however, substantial variation in what is taught, how it is taught, who teaches it, and how it is assessed.ConclusionsWhile being a requirement for accreditation, this study demonstrated how behavioral and social sciences topics, teaching strategies, and assessments, along with the individuals teaching those topics varied across predoctoral programs. Consistency, coordination, and clinical integration are possible ways of enhancing behavioral science instruction.
Benefit of lymph node dissection for perihilar and distal cholangiocarcinoma according to lymph node stations
Authors: Terasaki Fumihiro , Sugiura Teiichi , Okamura Yukiyasu , Ashida Ryo , Ohgi Katsuhisa , Yamada Mihoko , Ohtsuka Shimpei , Uesaka Katsuhiko 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe benefits of lymph node (LN) dissection at each station have not previously been fully investigated in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC) and distal cholangiocarcinoma (DCC).MethodsThe efficacy index (EI) was calculated in patients who underwent surgery for PHCC (n = 134) and DCC (n = 135) by multiplying the frequency of metastasis to the LN station and the 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate of patients with metastasis to that station.ResultsIn PHCC, the frequency of metastasis, 5‐year OS rates, and the EI in para‐aortic LNs (4.7%, 0%, and 0, respectively) and posterior pancreaticoduodenal LNs (8.1%, 0%, and 0, respectively) were lower than those in hepatoduodenal ligament LNs (30.1%, 24.1%, and 7.25, respectively) and LNs along the common hepatic artery (CHA) (16.2%, 15.0%, and 2.43, respectively). In DCC, these values were lower in LNs along the CHA (6.4%, 0%, and 0, respectively) than in the posterior pancreaticoduodenal LNs (31.2%, 34.5%, and 10.8, respectively), the hepatoduodenal ligament LNs (14.8%, 15.2%, and 2.25, respectively), and para‐aortic (4.0%, 25.0%, and 0.99, respectively) LNs.ConclusionsAccording to the EI, this study raises concerns about the effectiveness of dissection in the posterior pancreaticoduodenal LNs in PHCC and LNs along the CHA in DCC.
Effectiveness of a career intervention for improving career‐related outcomes in higher education students with disabilities
Authors: Ip Priscilla Sei Yah , Hui Anna Na Na 
Published: October 2023

AbstractYoung people with disabilities (YPWDs) in higher education require tailored career support in finding employment. Seventy‐five YPWDs in Hong Kong participated in a quantitative program effectiveness study using a three‐group comparison design (experimental, other intern, and control) to improve career‐related outcomes. Generalized estimating equations revealed that the experimental group showed significant improvements in career‐related outcomes such as career decision self‐efficacy and focused job search strategy while increasing disability‐related outcomes and work cynicism. This study reveals the impact of disability on work experience and its benefits for YPWDs. Important policy implications for future school–work transition programs for YPWDs are discussed.