bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of mixed studies on malaria in Colombia 1980–2022: what the “bifocal vision” discovers
Authors: Cardona-Arias Jaiberth Antonio , Salas-Zapata Walter , Carmona-Fonseca Jaime 
Published: June 2023

AbstractMixed methods are essential in public health research and malaria control, because they allow grasping part of the complexity and diversity of the factors that determine health-disease. This study analyzes the mixed studies on malaria in Colombia, 1980–2022, through a systematic review in 15 databases and institutional repositories. The methodological quality was assessed withMixed Methods Appraisal Tool(MMAT),STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology(STROBE), andStandards for Reporting Qualitative Research(SRQR). The qualitative and quantitative findings were grouped into a four-level hierarchical matrix. The epidemiological profile of malaria morbidity, from traditional epidemiology, has been sustained by environmental problems, armed conflict, individual risk behaviors, and low adherence to recommendations from health institutions. However, the qualitative component reveals deeper causes that are less studied, of greater theoretical complexity, and that reflect challenges to design and implement health interventions, such as socioeconomic and political crises, poverty, and the neoliberal orientation in the malaria control policy; the latter reflected in the change in the role of the State, the fragmentation of control actions, the predominance of insurance over social assistance, the privatization of the provision of health services, the individualistic and economistic predominance of health, and low connection with popular tradition and community initiatives. The above confirms the importance of expanding mixed studies as a source of evidence to improve malaria research and control models in Colombia, and to identify the underlying causes of the epidemiological profile.
Association between symptoms of severe periodontitis and post-bronchodilator lung function: results from the China pulmonary health study
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Zhou Xuan , Liang Lirong , Han Xiaozhe , Yang Ting , Huang Kewu , Lin Yingxiang , Wang Zuomin , Wang Chen 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
The association between periodontitis and post-bronchodilator lung function is unclear. We aimed to determine the associations between symptoms of severe periodontitis (SSP) and post-bronchodilator lung function in the Chinese population.

Methods
A cross-sectional study (China Pulmonary Health study) was conducted from 2012 to 2015 in a large Chinese nationally representative sample of 49,202 participants aged 20–89 years. Data on demographic characteristics and periodontal symptoms of participants were collected by questionnaire. Participants who had at least one of the two severe symptoms (tooth mobility and natural tooth loss) in the past year were defined to have SSP, which was set as one variable for analyses. Post-bronchodilator lung function data including forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were collected by spirometry.

Results
The values of post-FEV1, post-FVC and post-FEV1/FVC of the participants with SSP were all significantly lower than the participants without SSP (all p < 0.001). SSP were significantly associated with post-FEV1/FVC < 0.7 (p < 0.001). In the multiple regression analyses, SSP were still negatively associated with post-FEV1(b = -0.04, 95%CI (-0.05 -0.03), p < 0.001), post-FEV1/FVC (b = -0.45, 95%CI (-0.63, -0.28), p < 0.001) and significantly associated with post-FEV1/FVC < 0.7 (OR = 1.08, 95%CI 1.01—1.16, p = 0.03) after full adjustment for potential confounders.

Conclusions
Our data suggest that SSP were negatively associated with post-bronchodilator lung function in the Chinese population. Longitudinal cohort studies are needed to confirm these associations in the future.
Age, pelvic incidence, facet joint angle and pedicle-facet angle as correlative factors for isthmic spondylolisthesis: a retrospective case control study
Authors: Kong Qian , Wei Bohan , Niu Shuoqun , Liao Jiawen , Zu Yuliang , Shan Tao 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Isthmic spondylolisthesis (IS) is a common clinical disease with a high incidence rate. However, most current researches explain the clear pathogenesis from a single perspective. The aim of our study was to explore the relationships between multiple parameters in patients and find the potential risk factors of this disease.

Methods
Our study retrospectively included 115 patients who were diagnosed with isthmic spondylolisthesis and the same number of individuals without spondylolisthesis. The following parameters were measured or collected: age, pelvic incidence (PI), facet joint angle (FJA) and pedicle-facet angle (P-F angle). The radiographic files were imported into Mimics Medical 20.0 and all collected data were analyzed using SPSS, version 26.0, statistical software.

Results
The age was higher in IS group than in control group. PI was also higher in the IS group (50.99 ± 7.67) than in the control group (43.77 ± 9.30) significantly (P = 0.009). There was significant difference in cranial and average FJA tropism in L3-L4 level (P = 0.002, P = 0.006, respectively) and in L4-L5 level (P < 0.001). P-F angle of L4-L5 level showed significantly larger in IS group than in control group (P = 0.007).The logistic regression analysis showed a larger age, a greater L3-L4 cranial FJA tropism, and a greater L4-L5 cranial FJA tropism were potential predictors of IS, with an OR of 1.07, 1.28, and 1.39 respectively. The thresholds of the predictors were 60 years, 5.67°, and 8.97° according to the ROC curve. The linear regression equation was established: degree of slippage (%) = 0.220*age − 0.327* L3-4 cranial FJA tropism − 0.346* L4-5 average FJA tropism (F = 3.460, P = 0.011, r = 0.659).

Conclusions
Our study revealed that isthmic spondylolisthesis may be related to multiple factors rather than a single factor. Age, PI, PJA and P-F angle are potentially associated with spondylolisthesis.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of low back pain and its associated factors among school teachers in Africa
Authors: Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu , Abere Giziew , Mekonnen Tesfaye Hambisa , Jara Abdisa Gemedi , Aragaw Fantu Mamo 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Introduction
Low back pain (LBP) is a key social, economic, and public health problem in the world. The impact of LBP is given less priority and is empirically unrepresented in low- and middle-income countries as a result of the focus on more pressing and life-threatening health issues, including infectious diseases. In Africa, the prevalence of LBP is irregular and increasing among schoolteachers on account of teaching activities performed under suboptimal working conditions. Therefore, the objective of this review was to estimate the pooled prevalence and associated factors of LBP among school teachers in Africa.

Methods
This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed based on the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive systematic literature search focused on LBP in African school teachers was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, and CABI databases, regardless of publication timelines, from October 20 to December 3, 2022. In addition, gray literature was searched using Google Scholar and Google Search. Data were extracted in Microsoft Excel by using the JBI data extraction checklist. The overall effect of LBP was estimated using a random effect model via DerSimonian-Laird weights. The pooled prevalence and odds ratio of associated factors with 95% CI were computed using STATA 14/SE software. The I2 test and Egger’s regression test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively.

Results
A total of 585 articles were retrieved, and 11 eligible studies involving a total of 5,805 school teachers were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall estimated pooled prevalence of LBP in African school teachers was found to be 59.0% (95% CI: 52.0%–65.0%). Being female [POR: 1.53; 95% CI (1.19, 1.98)], being older [POR: 1.58; 95% CI (1.04, 2.40)], being physically inactive [POR: 1.92; 95% CI (1.04, 3.52)], having sleep problems [POR: 2.03; 95% CI (1.19, 3.44)] and having a history of injury [POR: 1.92; 95% CI (1.67, 2.21)] were factors significantly associated with LBP.

Conclusions
The pooled prevalence of LBP was high among school teachers in Africa compared to developed nations. Sex (female), older age, physical inactivity, sleep problems, and a history of previous injury were predictors of LBP. It is suggested that policymakers and administrators ought to gain awareness of LBP and its risk factors to put existing LBP preventive and control measures into action. Prophylactic management and therapeutic strategies for people with LBP should also be endorsed.
Effects of Alt-RAMEC protocol with facemask therapy in cleft lip palate patients in a sample of Pakistani population
Authors: Sami Qurrat-ul-ain , Ali Batool , Farooqui Waqas Ahmed 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Objective
The objective of the study is to evaluate the skeletal, dentoalveolar and soft tissue changes before and after treatment with Alt-RAMEC protocol and protraction headgear in comparison to the controls.

Material and methods
A quasi experimental study was conducted in the orthodontic department on 60 patients of cleft lip and palate. These patients were divided into two groups. Group I was the Alt-RAMEC group that underwent Alt-RAMEC protocol followed by facemask therapy while group II was the control group that underwent RME and facemask therapy. Total treatment time in both the groups was approximately 6 to 7 months. Mean and standard deviation was calculated for all the quantitative variables. Pre and post treatment changes between treatment and control groups were made using paired t-test. Intergroup comparison between treatment and control group was analyzed using independent t-test. Significance for all tests was predetermined at a P-value of  ≤ 0.05.

Results
The Alt-RAMEC group showed significant forward movement of maxilla and improvement in the maxillary base. A remarkable improvement in SNA was seen. The overall outcome was better maxillo-mandibular relationship as shown by positive ANB values and angle of convexity. More effect on maxilla and least effect on mandible was notified with Alt-RAMEC protocol and facemask therapy. Improvement in transverse relationship was also evident in the Alt-RAMEC group.

Conclusion
Alt-RAMEC protocol in combination with protraction headgear is a better alternative to treat cleft lip and palate patients in comparison to the conventional protocol.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy after ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome with wild-type ABCB4 gene: a peculiar case and literature review
Authors: Marin Loris , Ambrosini Guido , Nuzzi Ludovica , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Esposito Federica , Capobianco Giampiero , Chiantera Vito , Laganà Antonio Simone , Andrisani Alessandra 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) in the first trimester occurring after ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a rare condition and few cases are reported in the literature. Hyperestrogenism may explain this problem in genetically predisposed women. The objective of this article is to report one of these rare cases and offer an overview of the other published cases.

Case presentation
We report a case of severe OHSS followed by ICP in the first trimester. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit and was treated according to the guidelines for the management of OHSS. Moreover, the patient also received ursodeoxycholic acid for ICP, which brought to an improvement of her clinical conditions. The pregnancy continued without other complications until the 36th week of gestation, when the patient developed ICP in the third trimester and underwent cesarean section for increased bile acid levels and cardiotocographic (CTG) pathologic alterations. The newborn was a healthy baby weighing 2500 gr. We also reviewed other case reports published by other authors about this clinical condition. We present what is, to our knowledge, the first case of ICP developed in the first trimester of pregnancy after OHSS in which genetic polymorphisms of ABCB4 (MDR3) have been investigated.

Conclusions
ICP in the first trimester might be induced by elevated serum estrogen levels after OHSS in genetically predisposed women. In these women, it might be useful to check for genetic polymorphisms to know if they have a predisposition for ICP recurrence in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Shengxian decoction protects against chronic heart failure in a rat model via energy regulation mechanisms
Authors: Yang Ze-Qi , Han Yang-Yang , Gao Fan , Tian Jia-Ye , Bai Ran , Guo Qiu-Hong , Liu Xing-Chao 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Chronic heart failure (CHF) is actually a disease caused by an imbalanced energy metabolism between myocardial energy demand and supply, ultimately resulting in abnormal myocardial cell structure and function. Energy metabolism imbalance plays an important role in the pathological process of chronic heart failure (CHF). Improving myocardial energy metabolism is a new strategy for the treatment of CHF. Shengxian decoction (SXT), a well-known traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has good therapeutic effects on the cardiovascular system. However, the effects of SXT on the energy metabolism of CHF is unclear. In this study, we probed the regulating effects of SXT on energy metabolism in CHF rats using various research methods.

Methods
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was used to perform quality control of SXT preparations. Then, SD rats were randomly assigned into 6 groups: sham, model, positive control (trimetazidine) and high-, middle-, and low-dose SXT groups. Specific reagent kits were used to detect the expression levels of ALT and AST in rats’ serum. Echocardiography was used to evaluate cardiac function. H&E, Masson and TUNEL staining were performed to examine myocardial structure and myocardial apoptosis. Colorimetry was used to determine myocardial ATP levels in experimental rats. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the ultrastructure of myocardial mitochondria. ELISA was used to estimate CK, cTnI, and NT-proBNP levels, and LA、FFA、MDA、SOD levels. Finally, Western blotting was used to examine the protein expression of CPT-1, GLUT4, AMPK, p-AMPK, PGC-1α, NRF1, mtTFA and ATP5D in the myocardium.

Results
HPLC showed that our SXT preparation method was feasible. The results of ALT and AST tests indicate that SXT has no side effect on the liver function of rats. Treatment with SXT improved cardiac function and ventricular remodelling and inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress levels induced by CHF. Moreover, CHF caused decrease ATP synthesis, which was accompanied by a reduction in ATP 5D protein levels, damage to mitochondrial structure, abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism, and changes in the expression of PGC-1α related signal pathway proteins, all of which were significantly alleviated by treatment with SXT.

Conclusion
SXT reverses CHF-induced cardiac dysfunction and maintains the integrity of myocardial structure by regulating energy metabolism. The beneficial effect of SXT on energy metabolism may be related to regulating the expression of the PGC-1α signalling pathway.
Assessing predictors of students’ academic performance in Ethiopian new medical schools: a concurrent mixed-method study
Authors: Gebru Hafte Teklay , Verstegen Daniëlle 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Since 2012 the Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health and Education implemented a new medical curriculum in 13 institutions. The new curriculum introduced some questions on its admission policy: students can join with different educational backgrounds. Students’ performance on qualifying exams and grade point average are lower than desired. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate what factors predict the academic performance of students in the New Medical Education Initiative in Ethiopia.

Methods
A concurrent mixed method of survey and qualitative was used; for the survey, a structured self-administered questionnaire was distributed to students of four randomly selected medical schools from December 2018 to January 2019. The questionnaire includes questions about socio-demographic and educational background of participants. Multiple linear regression analysis was used in order to identify the factors associated with academic performance. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 key informants to explore qualitatively.

Results
In the multiple linear regressions, stress was associated with lower academic performance. Students with prior education in the field of health science outperformed students with other bachelors. The cumulative grade point average of the previous bachelor degree and the score on the entrance exam to join medicine also significantly predicted performance. Although some more variables are identified from the qualitative interviews, its findings supported the survey results.

Conclusions
Of the number of predictor variables analyzed in the model, only stress, prior educational degree, performance in the prior degree and entrance exam score were significantly correlated with the performance of students in their preclinical medical engagement.
Norwegian health personnel’s contacts and referrals for children of ill parents: an exploratory cross-sectional multi-centre study
Authors: Stavnes Kristin , Ruud Torleif , Benth Jūratė Šaltytė , Hanssen-Bauer Ketil , Solantaus Tytti , Hilsen Marit , Skogøy Bjørg Eva , Kallander Ellen Katrine , Kufås Elin , Weimand Bente M. 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
In 2010, changes were made to the Norwegian Health Personnel Act. This led to all health personnel being obliged to support the patients’ children and families. The aims of this study were to investigate whether health personnel contacted or referred the patients’ children to family/friends or public services. We also investigated if there were factors in the family or the services that increased or decreased the degree of contacts and referrals. In addition the patients were asked whether the law had been a help or even a burden. This study was part of a larger multi-site study of children of ill parents conducted in five health trusts in Norway.

Method
We used cross-sectional data from 518 patients and 278 health personnel. The informants completed a questionnaire addressing the law. Data were analyzed by factor analysis and logistic regression.

Results
The health personnel contacted/referred children to different services, but not to the degree desired by their parents. Only a few contacted family/friends, or the school and/or the public health nurse, those representing the helpers who live closest to the child, and thus well situated to participate in help and preventive efforts. The service most often referred to was the child welfare service.

Conclusion
The results indicate a change in contacts/referrals for children from their parents’ health personnel but also reveal remaining needs for support/help for these children. Health personnel should strive to write more referrals and take more contacts than the current study suggests, to secure adequate support for children of ill parents in Norway, as intended in The Health Personnel Act.
How can patient registries facilitate guideline-based healthcare? A retrospective analysis of the CEDATA-GPGE registry for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Leiz M. , Knorr M. , Moon K. , Tischler L. , Sohrabi K. , Cantez S. , Däbritz J. , de Laffolie J. , van den Berg N. ,   CEDATA GPGE Study Group, Buderus S. , Bufler P. , Dammann S. , Hauer A. , Keller K.-M. , Krahl A. , Laaß M. , Lang T. , Posovszky C. , Rodeck B. , Trenkel S. 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Early diagnosis is mandatory for the medical care of children and adolescents with pediatric-onset inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD). International guidelines (‘Porto criteria’) of the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition recommend medical diagnostic procedures in PIBD. Since 2004, German and Austrian pediatric gastroenterologists document diagnostic and treatment data in the patient registry CEDATA-GPGE on a voluntary basis. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze whether the registry CEDATA-GPGE reflects the Porto criteria and to what extent diagnostic measures of PIBD according to the Porto criteria are documented.

Methods
Data of CEDATA-GPGE were analyzed for the period January 2014 to December 2018. Variables representing the Porto criteria for initial diagnostic were identified and categorized. The average of the number of measures documented in each category was calculated for the diagnoses CD, UC, and IBD-U. Differences between the diagnoses were tested by Chi-square test. Data on possible differences between data documented in the registry and diagnostic procedures that were actually performed were obtained via a sample survey.

Results
There were 547 patients included in the analysis. The median age of patients with incident CD (n = 289) was 13.6 years (IQR: 11.2–15.2), of patients with UC (n = 212) 13.1 years (IQR: 10.4–14.8) and of patients with IBD-U (n = 46) 12.2 years (IQR: 8.6–14.7).
The variables identified in the registry fully reflect the recommendations by the Porto criteria. Only the disease activity indices PUCAI and PCDAI were not directly provided by participants but calculated from obtained data. The category ‘Case history’ were documented for the largest part (78.0%), the category ‘Imaging of the small bowel’ were documented least frequently (39.1%). In patients with CD, the categories ‘Imaging of the small bowel’ (χ2 = 20.7, Cramer-V = 0.2, p < 0.001) and ‘Puberty stage’ (χ2 = 9.8, Cramer-V = 0.1, p < 0.05) were documented more often than in patients with UC and IBD-U.

Conclusion
The registry fully reproduces the guideline’s recommendations for the initial diagnosis of PIBD. The proportion of documented diagnostic examinations varied within the diagnostic categories and between the diagnoses. Despite technological innovations, time and personnel capacities at participating centers and study center are necessary to ensure reliable data entry and to enable researchers to derive important insights into guideline-based care.