bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of health literacy in intervention studies targeting children living with overweight or obesity and their parents—a systematic mixed methods review
Authors: Holmen Heidi , Flølo Tone Nygaard , Tørris Christine , Torbjørnsen Astrid , Almendingen Kari , Riiser Kirsti 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundExcess weight and obesity are increasing among children. Health literacy has been suggested as a feasible concept for enabling informed health choices in weight management interventions for children and their parents. Knowledge of the skills necessary for a child to maintain new health behaviors is limited and the role of health literacy remains unclear. Thus, there is a need to summarize the effects of and experiences with interventions that include health literacy components to guide the development of effective, future weight-related interventions.AimThis review aims to identify how health literacy is integrated into studies of interventions targeting children with excess weight or obesity and/or their parents and to appraise the identified literature.MethodsWe conducted a systematic mixed methods review, with searches in Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, ERIC, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. We included studies of interventions published after 2013 that targeted children under 19 years with excess weight or obesity and/or their parents, where health literacy played a role. Results from the included studies were integrated using qualitative data transformation techniques, followed by a narrative summary.ResultsWe identified 7,910 citations. Four reports met our inclusion criteria and were included for review. These reports included a total of 402 children. Health literacy was assessed at baseline in two studies and measured as an outcome over time in one study. Methodological quality varied among the retained reports, with differences observed in study design, risk of bias and data collection methods. The reports highlight the need to adapt weight management treatments to the individual level of health literacy in children and their families to first ensure active participation in their treatment and second ensure long-term compliance with necessary lifestyle-related changes.DiscussionSurprisingly, little attention has been paid to the importance of health literacy in weight management programs targeting children and their families. Seemingly, treatments tailored to the individual level of health literacy have not been prioritized in research. Addressing health literacy in children's weight management continues to be a multifaceted and ambitious mission. Future research should focus on integrating health literacy into weight management interventions in a systematic and theory-driven manner, ensuring that these interventions are tailored to the specific needs of children and their families and can sustain behavior change over time.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=478957, identifier: CRD42023478957.
Hidden cause of paralysis: tight filum terminale in spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality
Authors: Yuan Yi , An Zong Jian , Gao Fei , Li Zhi Hui , Xu Wei Li , Sun Yong 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveTo explore the clinical characteristics and surgical treatment outcomes of spinal cord injury without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) in children.MethodsA retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of four children diagnosed with SCIWORA who were admitted to the Neurosurgery Department of Qingdao Women and Children's Hospital from November 2022 to June 2024. All four pediatric patients underwent laminectomy for spinal canal decompression along with resection of the filum terminale. Postoperatively, a regimen including corticosteroids and mannitol was administered. Following hospital discharge, each child was subjected to clinical follow-ups, and the neurological recovery from spinal cord injury was evaluated utilizing the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale.ResultsAmong the four patients, there was one male and three females, aged from 3 years and 2 months to 8 years. Two cases were due to low falls, one from a lower back injury, and one from a lumbar sprain. All patients had thoracolumbar injuries, with rapid progression of symptoms, including paralysis, sensory impairment, and urinary and fecal retention. Follow-up duration ranged from 3 to 24 months; three patients showed varying degrees of recovery in muscle strength and/or sensory function and bowel and bladder control, while one showed no improvement. One patient developed scoliosis and another presented with neurogenic bladder.ConclusionTethered cord syndrome may be a potential underlying cause of SCIWORA. For children with SCIWORA accompanied by tethered cord syndrome, we recommend early surgical intervention to perform laminectomy and release the tethered cord, which may aid in the recovery of neurological function.
Effect of β-blocker on clinical outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury: a retrospective propensity-matched study
Authors: Zhang Yaxin , Liu Tingting , Ji Wenwen , Wang Guangdong 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundTraumatic brain injury (TBI) represents a significant public health challenge due to its complex management. β-blockers may offer neuroprotective benefits, but their impact on TBI outcomes remains unclear. This study aims to evaluate the effect of β-blocker use on clinical outcomes in TBI patients.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included adult TBI patients, categorized into β-blocker and non-β-blocker groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to balance baseline characteristics. Mortality was assessed through the application of multivariable Cox regression models and Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Subgroup analyses examined the consistency of the results.ResultsA total of 1,516 patients were included in the study, with 750 receiving β-blocker therapy and 766 not receiving it. After PSM, 473 pairs of patients were matched. The analysis indicated that β-blockers significantly reduce 28-day mortality (HR 0.43, 95% CI: 0.31–0.60, P &lt; 0.001). However, patients receiving β-blocker had considerably longer hospital stays (7.89 days vs. 5.45 days, P &lt; 0.001) and ICU stays (2.94 days vs. 2.33 days, P &lt; 0.001).Conclusionβ-blocker therapy is associated with improved short-term outcomes in patients with TBI, particularly in those with mild (GCS 13–15) and severe (GCS 3–8) TBI. However, no significant benefit was observed in patients with moderate TBI (GCS 9–12). This therapy may also prolong hospital and ICU stays.
Exploring the hemoglobin-to-red blood cell distribution width ratio (HRR) to peripheral arterial disease nexus: a comprehensive analysis of NHANES data from 1999 to 2004
Authors: Yu Zhihai , Lu Bin , Han Rui , Tu Can 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the correlation between the Hemoglobin-to-Red Blood Cell Distribution Width Ratio (HRR) and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) prevalence, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2004.MethodsThe study employed a cross-sectional design, analyzing data from 5,196 participants aged 40 and above. PAD was diagnosed using the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), with ABI less than 0.9 indicating PAD. HRR, calculated as the ratio of hemoglobin (HB) to red blood cell distribution width (RDW), was stratified into quartiles. Covariates included demographic and clinical variables such as BMI, lipid profiles, and diabetes status. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between HRR and PAD, adjusting for potential confounders.ResultsThe study found that higher HRR quartiles were associated with a decreased risk of PAD. After adjusting for confounders, the odds ratios for PAD in relation to the second, third, and fourth quartiles of HRR compared to the first quartile were 0.71, 0.62, and 0.44, respectively (P &lt; 0.001). A one-unit increase in HRR corresponded to a 56% reduction in the probability of PAD. ROC analysis indicated HRR as a stronger protective factor for PAD compared to other variables. Stratified analyses revealed that younger age and lower BMI amplified the protective effect of HRR on PAD.ConclusionThe study demonstrated a significant inverse relationship between HRR and PAD, suggesting that HRR may serve as a protective factor against PAD. This finding highlights the potential role of HRR in the pathogenesis of PAD and its clinical implications.
Activation of the periaqueductal gray controls respiratory output through a distributed brain network
Authors: Prostebby Mitchell , Saini Jashan , Biancardi Vivian , Dickson Clayton T. , Pagliardini Silvia 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionThe periaqueductal gray (PAG) has been previously established to play a key role in producing the vital changes in respiration occurring in response to threat. However, it is not fully understood how PAG activation alters the ongoing respiratory output, nor it is understood which pathways mediate these effects, as several regions have been previously identified to influence respiratory activity.MethodsWe used optogenetic tools in conjunction with EMG recordings of inspiratory and expiratory musculature to determine how PAG activation on short (250 ms) and longer (10–15 s) timescales alters respiratory muscle activity. Through cFOS mapping, we also identified key downstream brain regions which were likely modulated by PAG activation including the preBötzinger Complex (preBötC) and the lateral parafacial area (pFL). We then stimulated PAG terminals in those regions to determine whether their activity can account for the observed effects of PAG stimulation.ResultsDirectly stimulating the PAG resulted in prominent changes to all recorded muscle activities and reset the breathing rhythm in either a phase-independent or phase-dependent manner. In contrast, stimulating PAG terminals in either preBötC or pFL with long or shorter timescale stimuli could not completely replicate the effects of direct PAG stimulation and also did not produce any respiratory reset.ConclusionsOur results show that the effects of PAG activity on respiration are not mediated solely by PAG inputs to either the preBötC or pFL and more likely involve integration across a larger network of brainstem areas.
COVID-19 vaccination attitudes and acceptance among people with serious mental illness
Authors: Small William , Silva Caroline , Johnson Rachel , Betti Vincent , Nguyen Antoinette , Todd Lauren , Jacobowitz David , Lamberti J. Steven 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study examines attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination among a diverse cohort of adults with serious mental illness (SMI), participant characteristics that are associated with vaccine acceptance, and barriers to COVID-19 vaccination among this population.MethodsA 28-item questionnaire was administered to 185 adults with SMI receiving care at a university-based outpatient psychiatric clinic. Variables included demographics, health behaviors, and vaccination status. Chi-square tests were used for categorical demographic comparisons on binary COVID-19 vaccine status.ResultsFemale participants were more likely to have received COVID-19 vaccination (77.6%) than male (55.7%) participants. White (73.3%) and Hispanic/Latino (81.8%) participants were more likely to have received vaccination than Black/African American (54.9%) participants. Participants who reported having seen a primary care provider (PCP) within the past two years were more likely to be vaccinated (72.1%) than those who had not (41.7%). Participants who reported having received an influenza vaccine in the past two years were more likely to be vaccinated (80.2%) than those who had not (41.8%). Participants who had not been vaccinated were more likely to report greater concerns about all potential barriers to vaccination, including concerns about side effects, cost, health effects, and distrust of clinicians and governments.ConclusionsThe overall vaccination rate of study participants with SMI was similar to that of the general population. Efforts to enhance engagement in primary care may help improve preventative health behaviors in people with SMI.
Exploring smallholder farmers’ access and participation in the Home Grown School Feeding Programme in selected counties of Kenya
Authors: Kamau Joyce , Okoyo Collins , Kanyui Tabitha , Mwandawiro Charles , Singh Samrat , Drake Lesley 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionSmallholder farmers (SHFs) produce 80% of the total agricultural output in Kenya. The Home Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSFP) was designed to address short-term hunger among primary school children from food-insecure households, enhancing access to primary education while providing a market to SHFs through local procurement of food for schools. This study investigated SHF access and participation in the HGSFP market and the uptake of a mobile phone platform (MPP) in HGSFP procurement in Tharaka Nithi, Kitui and Kilifi Counties of Kenya.MethodologyDescriptive cross-sectional study design was utilized and data were collected from SHFs, school teachers and farmer-based organizations (FBOs) within the schools’ locality using semi-structured questionnaires. A total of 378 SHFs, 92 FBOs and 70 school teachers were interviewed for the study. Data were analyzed using Stata version 16.ResultsThe study revealed that SHFs (22.8%) and FBOs (37.5%) gained access to HGSFP market and sold produce of maize (92.9%) and beans (91.4%). The main channel used by SHFs to sell produce to schools was through the FBOs (61.6%) amidst challenges of lack of surplus to sell (53.2%), low prices (50.9%) and poor transport infrastructure (23.6%). HGSFP schools purchased most of their food requirements from traders/brokers through manual tendering (65%). The uptake of the MPP for procurement of food by HGSFP schools and FBOs was embraced and promising and was rated as faster to use (76.8%) and more transparent in HGSFP procurement (44.6%).ConclusionThe study concluded that local procurement opportunities through FBOs were underutilized. We recommend more capacity-building support for SHFs and FBOs to increase their production and give them better opportunities to be key participants in the HGSFP market and other structured markets. The MPP should be adopted for the procurement of food for school meals for transparency and accountability. To maximize its benefits, it should be inclusive of all market players, especially traders/brokers and sufficient training should be provided to all stakeholders to participate fully in the HGSFP market.
Multimodal approach to public health interventions using EGG and mobile health technologies
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Liu Han , Sun Mingyang , Feng Shuangyi 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionPublic health interventions increasingly integrate multimodal data sources, such as Electroencephalogram (EEG) data, to enhance monitoring and predictive capabilities for mental health conditions. However, traditional models often face challenges with the complexity and high dimensionality of EEG signals. While recent advancements like Contrastive Language-lmage Pre-training(CLIP) models excel in cross-modal understanding, their application to EEG-based tasks remains limited due to the unique characteristics of EEG data.MethodsIn response, we introduce PH-CLIP (Public Health Contrastive Language-lmage Pretraining), a novel framework that combines CLIP's representational power with a multi-scale fusion mechanism designed specifically for EEG data within mobile health technologies. PH-CLIP employs hierarchical feature extraction to capture the temporal dynamics of EEG signals, aligning them with contextually relevant textual descriptions for improved public health insights. Through a multi-scale fusion layer, PH-CLIP enhances interpretability and robustness in EEG embeddings, thereby supporting more accurate and scalable interventions across diverse public health applications.Results and discussionExperimental results indicate that PH-CLIP achieves significant improvements in EEG classification accuracy and mental health prediction efficiency compared to leading EEG analysis models. This framework positions PH-CLIP as a transformative tool in public health monitoring, with the potential to advance large-scale mental health interventions through integrative mobile health technologies.
Factors associated with having a steady homosexual partner among men who have sex with men, based on internet recruitment
Authors: Zhang Peng , Chen Weiyong , Li Jing , Fu Yun , Wang Fang , Wang Xing , Yang Zhongrong 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study analyzed the status and factors associated with having a steady homosexual partner (HP) among men who have sex with men (MSM) to provide a scientific basis for developing prevention and control strategies for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in this population.MethodsA questionnaire survey was conducted among study participants who were MSM recruited online by a non-governmental organization in May 2024. The participants were divided into two groups based on whether they had a steady HP. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the factors influencing whether the participants had a steady HP.ResultsWe surveyed 604 participants;211 (34.93%) had a current steady HP. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that older participants having a steady HP (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.07)was associated with an average monthly income &gt;6,000 Chinese yuan (aOR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.01–2.16), a belief that using enhancers such as Rush Popper increases the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection risk (aOR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.02–2.41), identification as purely homosexual (aOR: 2.02; 95% CI: 1.37–2.99), having engaged in anal sex with a HP in the previous 6 months (aOR: 4.13; 95% CI:2.51–6.90), and knowing the HIV status of their HP (aOR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.17–3.06). Participants less likely to have a steady HP had used condoms consistently during anal sex with a HP in the prior 6 months (aOR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.35–0.90) and engaged in one-night stands with HPs (aOR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.29–0.65).ConclusionA low proportion of participants had steady HPs (34.93%). Therefore, public education for MSM should be promoted to encourage individuals to improve their awareness of HIV infection risks. Sexual responsibility, including correct use and risks of enhancers like Rush Popper, and avoiding high-risk behaviors, such as one-night stands, is crucial to reducing the risks of HIV and sexually transmitted infections.
The prognostic significance of tertiary lymphoid structures in oral squamous cell carcinomas: a systematic review
Authors: Ribeiro V. , Teillaud J-L. , Dieu-Nosjean M-C. , Lescaille G. , Rochefort J. 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionUpper aerodigestive tract cancers are prevalent, with a global incidence surpassing 500,000 new cases in 2018. Among these, oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) constitute the majority. OSCC has a low 5-year survival rate due to late-stage diagnosis. Risk factors include alcohol and tobacco use. However, non-smokers and non-drinkers are also affected, especially young patients with tongue cancer. The impact of tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) on OSCC prognosis remains debated. Remarkably, Tertiary Lymphoid Structures (TLS) identified in solid tumors have shown associations with favorable outcomes, yet their prognostic significance in OSCC remains understudied.ObjectiveThus, this systematic review aims to explore the value of TLS in OSCC reported in the literature.MethodA scoping review was conducted and six retrospective cohort studies involving 1,203 patients met the inclusion criteria.ResultsPredominantly male patients, with an average age of 49.3 years were included. Immunohistochemistry was the primary method to identify TLS, present in 21% up to 100% of cases. TLS were predominantly located in the peri-tumoral area (75.4%–84.8%) compared to the intra-tumoral area (33.8%–33.9%). Our review shows that the presence of TLS is associated with improved survival in OSCC.DiscussionHowever, variations in TLS detection and classification methods across studies introduce potential biases, hindering direct comparisons between findings. For instance, reports that are based solely on examining HES-stained slides for TLS identification may raise reliability concerns. Standardization of methodologies is imperative to ensure consistency in criteria utilization, thereby facilitating meaningful data comparisons.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023428010, PROSPERO (CRD42023428010).
Monitoring changes of forest height in California
Authors: Favrichon Samuel , Lee Jake , Yang Yan , Dalagnol Ricardo , Wagner Fabien , Sagang Le Bienfaiteur , Saatchi Sassan 
Published: January 2025

Forests of California are undergoing large-scale disturbances from wildfire and tree mortality, caused by frequent droughts, insect infestations, and human activities. Mapping and monitoring the structure of these forests at high spatial resolution provides the necessary data to better manage forest health, mitigate wildfire risks, and improve carbon sequestration. Here, we use LiDAR measurements of top of canopy height metric (RH98) from NASA’s Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) mission to map vegetation height across the entire California for two different time periods (2019–2020 and 2021–2022) and explore the impact of disturbance. Exploring the reliability of machine learning methods for temporal monitoring of forest is still a developing field. We train a deep neural network to predict forest height metrics at 10-m resolution from radar and optical satellite imagery. Model validation against independent airborne LiDAR data showed a R2≥0.65 for the top of canopy height outperforming existing GEDI-based height maps and with improved sensitivity for mapping tall trees (RH98 ≥ 50 m) across California. Height showed distinct spatial variations across forest types offering quantitative and spatial information to evaluate forest conditions. The model, trained on data from 2019 to 2020, showed a similar accuracy when applied to satellite imagery acquired in 2021–2022 allowing a robust detection of changes caused by natural and man-made disturbances of forest. Changes of height captured impacts of tree mortality and fire intensity, pointing to the influence of wildfire across landscapes. Fires caused more than 60% of the large forest disturbances between the two time periods. This study demonstrates the benefits of using locally trained ML models to rapidly modernize forest management techniques in the age of increasing climate risks.