bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A new guide for basic psychological support for persons affected by neglected tropical diseases: A peer support tool suitable for persons with a diagnosis of leprosy and lymphatic filariasis
Authors: Nayak Pradeepta K. , Mackenzie Charles D. , Agarwal Ashok , van Wijk Robin , Mol Marente M. , Eaton Julian , Semrau Maya , Valle-Trabadelo Carmen , Kaloiya Gauri S. , Pratap Alok , Kunju Jayashree P. , Krishnasastry Suma , Ferdiana Astri , Marastuti Ariana , Tiwari Rohit K. , van Brakel Wim H. 
Published: January 2025

Background
People with disabilities due to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), such as leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF), often encounter situations of stigma and discrimination that significantly impact their mental wellbeing. Mental wellbeing services are often not available at the peripheral level in NTD-endemic countries, and there is a need for such services. Basic psychological support for persons with NTDs (BPS-N) from peers is an important potential solution for addressing mental wellbeing problems. As there was no written document advising delivery of such support, NLR India brought experts together to develop a new guide. This paper describes the process used in developing the guide and provides information about its content.

Methods
As a qualitative and participatory methodology, more than 10 meetings and workshops were held to consider the suitability of existing guides for chronic stress in NTDs and develop a new guide through consensus and adaptations; attendees included both technical experts and affected persons. The first meeting was a 3-day virtual workshop held on 9–11 June 2020, followed by other online meetings. The BPS-N guide development happened during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The Psychological First Aid (PFA) package of WHO was selected as a suitable basic model for adaptation. Aspects of the Rights-Based Counselling intervention were also integrated into the new guide. Two teams were formed for drafting and reviewing the guide.

Results
All suggested changes were discussed, and a consensus reached for developing the document. The affected persons contextualized the content for ensuring its relevance and practicality. The new BPS-N guide was simple, professionally sound, ethical, adequate, and appropriate. The guide promotes knowledge, skills, compassion, and action among peer supporters.

Conclusion
The new guide, through regular trainings, behavior change, and action principles will likely provide much-needed services. It is important that the new guide be now tested, and modifications made if needed.
Exploring barriers to accessing treatment for Lymphatic Filariasis through a socio-ecological lens in Buvuma and Napak districts, Uganda
Authors: Bagonza Arthur , Gibson Linda , Kabiri Lydia , Bezalel Chris , Narahari Saravu Rama Bhat , Franks Peter J. , Musoke David , Moffatt Christine 
Published: January 2025

Background
The World Health Organization launched the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis in 2000, which aimed at eradicating the disease by 2030. This goal depends on community mass drug administration and essential care. Despite these efforts, many rural communities still face untreated lymphatic filariasis and lack access to treatment and self-management. Using a socioecological model, this study examined barriers to treatment and support for people living with lymphatic filariasis in Uganda’s Buvuma and Napak districts.

Methods
We conducted 12 key informant interviews with health facility officials, district health officers, and village health team members. Additionally, 19 focus group discussions were held with community members, and nine in-depth interviews were conducted with people living with lymphatic filariasis. This study explored knowledge gaps among those living with lymphatic filariasis and health providers that affect morbidity management and disability prevention, as well as challenges in accessing treatment. Audio recordings were transcribed and managed via ATLAS ti software version 6. Thematic analysis was conducted via the socioecological model framework.

Results
This study identified multiple complex factors affecting healthcare providers and individuals living with lymphatic filariasis, spanning individual, interpersonal, organisational, community, and policy levels. The key themes included stigma and social isolation, healthcare disparities, and healthcare dynamics. Stigma and social isolation result in emotional distress, neglect, exclusion, and self-isolation, which are influenced by community beliefs. Health systems and policy barriers included poverty, inadequate personnel, and insufficient equipment. Structural factors such as geographical remoteness, environmental harshness, and lack of healthcare infrastructure were prominent obstacles to seeking care for lymphatic filariasis management.

Conclusion
This study provides insights into the multilevel factors influencing the understanding and availability of treatment for lymphatic filariasis in Uganda. Addressing sociocultural beliefs, social and interpersonal dynamics, and healthcare disparities is crucial for improving the outcomes and well-being of these rural communities. These findings can aid in managing lymphatic filariasis in Uganda and similar low-resource settings.
Methylome profiling of cell-free DNA during the early life course in (un)complicated pregnancies using MeD-seq: Protocol for a cohort study embedded in the prospective Rotterdam periconception cohort
Authors: van Vliet Marjolein M. , Schoenmakers Sam , Boers Ruben G. , van der Meeren Lotte E. , Gribnau Joost , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P. M. 
Published: January 2025

Introduction
Placental DNA methylation differences have been associated with timing in gestation and pregnancy complications. Maternal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) partly originates from the placenta and could enable the minimally invasive study of placental DNA methylation dynamics. We will for the first time longitudinally investigate cfDNA methylation during pregnancy by using Methylated DNA Sequencing (MeD-seq), which is compatible with low cfDNA levels and has an extensive genome-wide coverage. We aim to investigate DNA methylation in placental tissues and cfDNA during different trimesters in uncomplicated pregnancies, and in pregnancies with placental-related complications, including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Identified gestational-age and disease-specific differentially methylated regions (DMRs) could lead to numerous applications including biomarker development.

Methods and analysis
Our study design involves three sub-studies. Sub-study 1 is a single-centre prospective, observational subcohort embedded within the Rotterdam Periconception cohort (Predict study). We will longitudinally collect maternal plasma in each trimester and during delivery, and sample postpartum placentas (n = 300). In sub-study 2, we will prospectively collect first and second trimester placental tissues (n = 10 per trimester). In sub-study 3 we will retrospectively collect plasma after non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in an independent validation case-control cohort (n = 30–60). A methylation-dependent restriction enzyme (LpnPI) will be used to generate DNA fragments followed by sequencing on the Illumina NextSeq2000 platform. DMRs will be identified in placental tissues and cell types, and in cfDNA related to gestational-age or placental-related complications. (Paired) placental methylation profiles will be correlated to DMRs in cfDNA to aid tissue-of-origin analysis. We will establish a methylation score to predict associated diseases.

Discussion
This study will provide insights in placental DNA methylation dynamics in health and disease, and could lead to clinical relevant biomarkers.
Preliminary experience and learning curve of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex sparing total mastectomy: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Yu Da young , Lee Tae Yul , Kim Duk Woo , Chang Young Woo , Son Gil Soo , Lee Hye Yoon 
Published: January 2025

Background
In this study, the preliminary experience of endoscopic nipple-areolar-complex (NAC) sparing total mastectomy were analyzed and reported.

Methods
The medical records of the patients who underwent Endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy from November 2019 to June 2022 in a single institute were collected and analyzed. The medical records of their clinicopathologic characteristics, perioperative parameters, postoperative complications, oncologic results were collected retrospectively. The learning curve was evaluated using univariable and multivariable analyses and analyzed using the CUSUM method.

Results
A total of 56 surgeries from 53 patients were analyzed. The mean total operation time was 272.50±66.74 minutes while mean oncologic mastectomy was 155.61±43.21 minutes. The mean postoperative hospital days were 9.85±4.70 days. In CUSUM analysis, the cases needed to decrease operation time were 10th. The overall complication rate related to implant was 15.09%. There were one locoregional recurrence patient and one distant metastasis and mortality patient observed during median follow-up of 19.12±12.01 months.

Conclusion
According to our preliminary study, endoscopic NAC sparing total mastectomy is a safe procedure, and the operation time can be reduced with accumulated surgical experience.
Healthcare providers’ (HCPs) perspectives in initiating discussion on mammogram screening, and their perceived barriers and enablers to screening in women—A qualitative study
Authors: Wang Xuefei , Leow Qi He Mabel , Lee Hwee Khim , Mok Ching Yee , Wong Wei Teen , Quah Hui Min Joanne , Tan Ngiap Chuan 
Published: January 2025

Background
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and mammogram screening can reduce breast cancer mortality. Healthcare providers’ perspectives can have an impact on encouraging females to attend mammogram screening.

Objective
To understand healthcare providers’ (HCPs) perspectives in initiating discussion on mammogram screening, and their perceived barriers and enablers to screening in women.

Method
A qualitative descriptive study design was used. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with a purposive sample of doctors and nurses from SingHealth Polyclinics between February 2019 to July 2020. “The Generalists’ Wheel of Knowledge, Understanding and Inquiry” was adopted as the conceptual framework to design the interview guide and analyse the data.

Results
Thirty participants consisting of 14 doctors and 16 nurses were interviewed across five FGDs. HCPs personal factors such as gender, their personal experience with mammogram, and years of work experience influenced counselling. They perceived that patients’ language, education status, previous experience with mammogram, misconceptions, and fear of mammogram results were potential barriers to mammogram. HCPs believed they had the knowledge to provide information and initiate discussions on mammogram screening. Healthcare factors were cost, accessibility to screening, consultation time constraints, and inadequate information in health records.

Conclusion
HCPs’ information mastery and personal experiences were enablers in encouraging females to attend mammogram screening. Lack of information in the health records was a barrier to providing continuity of care.

Implications for practice
Nurses should be opportunistic in initiating conversations and encourage women on mammogram screening when they visit the clinic. Training and being updated on mammography screening guidelines is important for clinicians to initiate and provide discussions on mammogram screening.
Predicting early cessation of exclusive breastfeeding using machine learning techniques
Authors: Nejsum Freja Marie , Wiingreen Rikke , Jensen Andreas Kryger , Løkkegaard Ellen Christine Leth , Mølholm Hansen Bo 
Published: January 2025

Background
Identification of mother-infant pairs predisposed to early cessation of exclusive breastfeeding is important for delivering targeted support. Machine learning techniques enable development of transparent prediction models that enhance clinical applicability. We aimed to develop and validate two models to predict cessation of exclusive breastfeeding within one month among infants born after 35 weeks gestation using machine learning techniques.

Methods
Utilizing a nationwide dataset from Statistics Denmark, including infants born between the 1st of January 2014 and the 31st of December 2015, we employed random forest machine learning to develop two predictive models. The first model included 11 well-established factors associated with cessation of exclusive breastfeeding within one month. The second model was expanded to include 21 additional factors associated with complications during pregnancy and delivery that potentially impede breastfeeding. Feature importance was applied to elucidate the factors driving model predictions.

Results
The dataset comprised 110,206 infants and 106,835 mothers. The first model predicted cessation of exclusive breastfeeding within one month with an area under the receiver operating curve of 62.0% (95% confidence interval 61.3% - 62.7%) and an accuracy of 60.4% (95% confidence interval 59.8% - 61.0%). The second model predicted cessation of exclusive breastfeeding within one month with an area under the receiver operating curve of 62.2% (95% confidence interval 61.5% - 62.9%) and an accuracy of 60.0% (95% confidence interval 59.3% - 60.6%). In both models, birthplace, maternal education, delivery mode, and maternal body mass index were the most important factors influencing the overall model performance.

Conclusions
The two models could not accurately predict cessation of exclusive breastfeeding within one month among infants born after 35 weeks gestation. Contrary to our expectations, including additional factors in the model did not increase model performance.
Regional disparities of full pentavalent vaccine uptake and the determinants in Ethiopia: Mapping and spatial analysis using the EDHS data
Authors: Bantie Getasew Mulat , Tadege Melaku , Nigussie Teshager Zerihun , Woya Ashenafi Abate , Tekile Abay Kassa , Melese Amare Alemu , Ayalew Simeneh , Beyene Belay Bezabih , Wubetu Gizachew Yismaw 
Published: January 2025

Background
The full pentavalent (DPT-HepB-Hib) vaccination is the main strategy to prevent five communicable diseases in early childhood, especially in countries with huge communicable disease burdens like Ethiopia. Exploring spatial distributions and determinants of full pentavalent vaccination status in minor ecological areas in Ethiopia is crucial for creating targeted immunization campaigns and monitoring the advancement of accomplishing sustainable development goals. This study aimed to investigate the spatial disparities and determinants of full pentavalent vaccination among 12-23-month-old children in Ethiopia.

Method
The data on pentavalent vaccine uptake was found in the Ethiopian Health and Demographic Survey (EDHS, 2019). A two-stage cluster sampling method was applied to collect the EDHS data. The enumeration area was the primary sample unit while the household served as the secondary sampling unit. The geographical variations of full pentavalent vaccine uptake were explored using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) software. The significant predictors of full pentavalent vaccination were identified using a simple logistic regression model through R version 4.1 software.

Result
The national full pentavalent vaccine uptake was 59.2%. The spatial distribution of full pentavalent vaccine uptake was not uniform in Ethiopia. Spatial cluster analysis revealed that most of low coverage regions for full pentavalent vaccine uptake were Afar, Somali, and Harari. The regions with the highest and lowest rates of vaccine uptake were Tigray and Harari region, respectively. Maternal age of 35–49 years (AOR = 3.42; 95% CI: 1.99, 5.87), and 25–34 years (AOR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.17, 2.19), primary education attended (AOR = 1.51; 95%CI: 1.07, 2.11), richness wealth index (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.40, 2.75), birth order of 1–3 (AOR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.19, 2.96), and delivery in the health facility (AOR = 3.41: 95% CI: 2.52, 4.61) were the determinants of full pentavalent vaccine uptake in Ethiopia.

Conclusion
Ethiopia’s full pentavalent vaccine uptake was far lower than the global target. Older maternal age, maternal education, wealth index, birth order, and giving birth in a health facility were the determinants of full pentavalent vaccine uptake. Special attention should be given to Afar, Somali, and Harari regions, to strengthen the vaccine uptake. Moreover, improved socioeconomic status and getting maternal health services during delivery are necessary to enhance vaccine uptake.
The gut microbiota-SCFA-inflammation axis in patients with AECOPD
Authors: Zhu Hengjing , Wu Chen , Wu Haiyan , Liu Juan , Ye Wu , Zhao Tian , Li Zhijun 
Published: January 2025

Objectives
The aim of the study was to explore the alteration of microbiota and SCFA in gut and inflammation in acute exacerbation chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients, and to test the hypothesis that a disorder of gut microbiota will lead to the alteration of SCFA, which will aggravate inflammation in AECOPD patients.

Methods and results
24 patients with AECOPD and 18 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Gut microbiota were analyzed by 16S rDNA and serum was used to detect levels of inflammatory factors by ELISA. Fatty acid concentrations were determined in lumen via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The richness and diversity of gut microbiota were decreased in AECOPD patients. β-diversity analysis revealed differences between AECOPD patients and healthy controls. p_Bacteroidetes, g_Paraprevotella, g_Ruminococcus2, g_Parasutterella, o_Rhodospirillales, and g_Romboutsia in the healthy controls and p_Firmicutes, o_Actinomycetales, f_Actinomycetadeae, g_Actinomyces, g_Mogibacterium, f_Veillonellaceae, f_Enterococcaceae, and g_Enterococcus in AECOPD patients were the most abundant microbiota. SCFA levels were decreased in patients with AECOPD. In addition, the results demonstrated that except for a reduction in IL-6, there was no change in inflammatory markers in AECOPD patients.

Conclusion
In AECOPD patients, the gut microbiota-SCFA-inflammation axis is augmented, with decreased diversity and abundance of gut microbiota, leading to a reduction in SCFA and an imbalance of inflammation.
Genetic insights into the risk of hip osteoarthritis on stroke: A single-variable and multivariable Mendelian randomization
Authors: Zhang Zhengze , Lian Yanan , He Yuewen , Liu Hao , Meng Kai , Wang Yong , Ma Wuhua 
Published: January 2025

Background
Hip osteoarthritis has been identified as a potential risk factor for stroke, with previous studies have demonstrated an association between hip osteoarthritis and stroke. This study aims to further elucidate the causal relationship between the two, employing Two-Sample and Multivariable Mendelian randomization methods.

Methods
SNPs, derived from two extensive GWAS, served as instruments in exploring the association between genetically predicted hip osteoarthritis and stroke risk, utilizing two-sample Mendelian randomization. In Multivariable Mendelian randomization, factors such as cigarettes per day, alcoholic drinks per week, hypertension, body mass index, type 2 diabetes, C-reactive protein, rheumatoid arthritis were incorporated to further account for the independent causal effects of multiple correlated exposures.

Results
Two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis revealed that hip osteoarthritis exerts a potential causal effect on any stroke, any ischemic stroke, and cardioembolic stroke, while it did not influence large artery stroke and small vessel stroke. Multivariable MR analysis indicated that the causal effect of hip osteoarthritis on any ischemic stroke and cardioembolic stroke was no longer evident after adjusting for C-reactive protein, and similarly, the effect on any ischemic stroke was not observed after adjusting for type 2 diabetes. However, the effects on any stroke, any ischemic stroke, and cardioembolic stroke remained significant after adjustments for hypertension, alcoholic drinks per week, cigarettes per day, body mass index, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Conclusion
The study demonstrated that elevated hip osteoarthritis, as predicted by genetic factors, was potential associated with an increased risk of any stroke, any ischemic stroke, and cardioembolic stroke, but showed no correlation with hypertension, alcoholic drinks per week, cigarettes per day, type 2 diabetes, C-reactive protein, body mass index levels, and rheumatoid arthritis.
An interprofessional model to improve LGBTQ+ specific cultural competence in dental and pharmacy students
Authors: Shukla Anubhuti , Yalamanchi Sriha , Tamayo-Cabeza Guillermo , Albright Amanda , Weber Zachary A. , Newton April D. 
Published: January 2025

Background
Disproportionate access to healthcare services among the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning and others (LGBTQ+) population can be partially attributed to the lack of cultural competence among healthcare providers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of an interprofessional model in improving cultural competence and clinical preparedness among dental and pharmacy students for providing LGBTQ+ specific care.

Methodology
This study is a retrospective observational study which used a novel interprofessional model of three different LGBTQ+ focused educational interventions within a group of dental and pharmacy students. The study used pre- and post-surveys, Assessment of Interprofessional Team Collaboration Scale (AITCS-II) and the Team Observed Structured Clinical Encounter (TOSCE) evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the interventions. Descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Welch test, Kruskal-Wallis Test, and pairwise Wilcox Test were employed to analyze quantitative data while qualitative insights were gathered from evaluator comments and student feedback.

Results
The study evaluated cultural competence among 154 dental and pharmacy students revealing improved cultural humility post-intervention, particularly for dental students although not statistically significant (p>0.05). Students participating in multiple interventions had higher mean scores, but the differences were not significant (p>0.05). Significant differences were found among interprofessional teams of students in the domains of roles and responsibilities (p = 0.039) and patient centered approach (p = 0.039). No significant differences were found in individual scores participation in the teams (p = 0.018). Students also provided positive feedback on the program’s impact on their understanding of LGBTQ+ health issues and inclusive care.

Conclusion
This program was a novel intervention aimed at improving cultural competence for health professional students in an interprofessional environment Further research in the direction can be useful in creating replicable programs.