bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis and validation of SNX7 as a novel biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of chemotherapy and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Jianlin , Gao Gan , Zhang Yi , Dai Peng , Huang Yi 
Published: September 2023

AbstractBackgroundStudies have demonstrated that Sorting nexin 7 (SNX7) functions as an anti-apoptotic protein in liver tissue and plays a crucial role in the survival of hepatocytes during early embryonic development. However, its diagnostic and prognostic value as well as the predictive value of chemotherapy and immunotherapy have not been reported in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsSNX7 mRNA expression and its diagnostic efficacy were examined in GEO datasets, and the findings were further confirmed in TCGA, ICGC cohorts, and cell lines. The protein level of SNX7 was determined using CPTAC and HPA databases, and the results were validated through immunohistochemistry (IHC). Survival analyses were performed in TCGA and ICGC cohorts, and the results were subsequently validated via Kaplan–Meier Plotter. The response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy was predicted via GDSC dataset and TIDE algorithm, respectively. R packages were employed to explore the relationship between SNX7 expression and immune infiltration, m6A modification, as well as the functional enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs).ResultsThe expression of SNX7 at both mRNA and protein levels was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues. SNX7 exhibited superior diagnostic efficacy compared to AFP alone for HCC detection, and combining it with AFP improved the diagnostic accuracy for HCC. High SNX7 was associated with unfavorable outcomes, including poor overall survival, disease-specific survival, progression-free survival, and advanced pathological stage, in patients with HCC, and SNX7 was identified as an independent risk factor for HCC. Moreover, elevated SNX7 expression was positively correlated with increased sensitivity to various chemotherapy drugs, including sorafenib, while it was associated with resistance to immunotherapy in HCC patients. Correlation analysis revealed a relationship between SNX7 and multiple m6A-related genes and various immune cells. Finally, enrichment analysis demonstrated strong associations of SNX7 with critical biological processes, such as cell cycle regulation, cellular senescence, cell adhesion, DNA replication, and mismatch repair pathway in HCC.ConclusionsOur study highlights the association of SNX7 with the immune microenvironment and its potential influence on HCC progression. SNX7 emerges as a promising novel biomarker for the diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy in patients with HCC.
Prevalence and associated factors of non-medical use of prescription drugs among adolescents in secondary schools in Buea, Cameroon: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nkouonlack Cyrille , Shifu Ismaila Ngwayi , Atchou Jonas Guy Basseguin , Eyoum Christian , Dinayen Dieudonne Yusinyu , Nsagha Dickson Shey , Njamnshi Alfred Kongnyu 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The non-medical use of prescription drugs is a growing public health problem worldwide. Recent trends in Cameroon show that the use of psychoactive substances, among which are prescription drugs by adolescents is becoming a public health issue and is linked to juvenile delinquency and violence in schools. However, there is a paucity of data on the burden of this phenomenon among adolescent secondary school students in the country. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with the use of non-prescription drugs in secondary schools in Buea, South West region of Cameroon.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study from 1st February 2021 to 30th April 2021. Secondary school students were recruited using a multistage stratified cluster sampling. A modified and standardized version of the World Health Organization student drug-use survey model questionnaire was used. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea (No. 2021/1273–02/UB/SG/IRB/FHS). The Statistical Package for Social Sciences, IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 25.0. was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of participants. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to explore associated factors of non-medical use of prescription drugs.

Results
A total of 570 participants were enrolled for the study, and 510 participants responded giving a response rate of 89.5%. The prevalence of non-medical use of prescription drugs was 15.3%, tramadol being the most used. Motivators for non-medical use of prescription drugs were “to work longer”, “to be courageous”, and “curiosity”. Logistic regression results showed that alcohol consumption [OR 3.68; 95% CI: 2.24–6.06; p < 0.001], smoking [OR 6.00; 95% CI: 3.07–11.75; p < 0.001] and use of illicit drugs [OR 10.85; 95% CI: 5.48–21.48; p < 0.001] were independent factors associated with non-medical use of prescription drugs.

Conclusion
Non-medical use of prescription drugs was prevalent among adolescent secondary school students in Buea, Cameroon. Tramadol is the main drug of prescription involved. Our results can guide policymakers on strategies to screen, prevent and control non-medical use of prescription drugs among secondary school students in Cameroon.
Factors associated with quality of life in Chinese people with psoriasis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Xiu-jie , Lin Jing-rong , Ou Min-xing , Yan Hong-wei , Liu Sheng-nan , Dai Lu , Gong Fu-qing 
Published: September 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe ultimate goal of medical care is to eradicate disease and restore normality to a person’s life. Quality of life (QOL) is a concern as dermatologists and researchers strive to find better drug treatments. However, there have been few reports on the factors associated with QOL among Chinese people with psoriasis.MethodsA total of 185 people with psoriasis were surveyed to assess their sociodemographic status, disease-related information, psychosocial status, and QOL. The questionnaires included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Athens Insomnia Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Perceived Social Support Scale, the Psychosocial Adaptation Questionnaire of Chronic Skin Disease and the Dermatology Life Quality Index. Multiple stepwise regression and path analysis were used to study the factors associated with QOL among Chinese people with psoriasis and to analyse the relationship between them.ResultsThe results showed that the presence of anxiety/depression, lesion area, sleep disorders, psychosocial adaptation, and sex could jointly predict 62.1% of the variance in QOL among Chinese people with psoriasis. According to previous theories and the literature, a path model was established for five variables. Four internal variables could be effectively explained. The values of the explanatory variables were 62.1% (F(1056) = 61.020,p = 0.000) for QOL, 71.8% (F(2433) = 117.370,p = 0.000) for anxiety/depression, 44.0% (F(660) = 36.935,p = 0.000) for sleep disorders, and 66.9% (F(6886) = 93.556,p = 0.000) for psychosocial adaptation. The path analysis confirmed that 9 paths were consistent with the predicted path, and 3 paths were not confirmed.ConclusionTo improve QOL among Chinese people with psoriasis, attention should be given to the presence of anxiety/depression, lesion area, sleep disorders, psychosocial adaptation and sex differences. Therefore, health care programs for psoriasis should include physical, psychological and social aspects.
Predicting the deltoid tuberosity index in proximal humerus fractures using fracture characteristics and patient age: development of the LBQ-PHF score
Authors: Razaeian Sam , Al Marhi Okba , Wiese Birgitt , Zhang Dafang , Bouklas Panagiotis , Krettek Christian , Hawi Nael 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The aim of this study was to investigate (1) whether fracture pattern and age are associated with local bone quality (LBQ), and (2) whether a scoring system based on these variables is able to predict LBQ in proximal humerus fractures (PHF).

Materials and methods
A retrospective study was performed of all acute PHF at a Level 2 trauma center with plain radiographs and CT between June 2009 and March 2022. Local bone quality was measured by using the deltoid tuberosity index (DTI). In addition to age and gender, fracture morphology was categorized using the following classification systems: Neer, Resch, AO Foundation/Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA), and Hertel/LEGO. Additionally, coronal head alignment was calculated by measuring the head-shaft angle.

Results
Only the Resch classification system revealed a significant relationship between fracture type and bone quality, as there was a significant association between coronal head alignment and DTI (p = 0.001). Valgus head alignment was observed significantly more frequent in patients with low bone quality (p = 0.002). Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed a significant relative risk ratio for age (RRR = 0.97, [95% CI, 0.94-1], p = 0.039) and a non-significant trend for DTI (RRR = 1.26, [95% CI, 0.96–1.64], p = 0.092) for occurrence of anatomic relative to valgus head alignment. Using a DTI cut-off value of 1.3 instead of 1.4, age and also varus head alignment were identified as significant predictors of LBQ (OR = 1.12, [95% CI, 1.1–1.15], p < 0.001; OR = 0.54, [95% CI, 0.3–0.96], p = 0.037). A scoring system called the LBQ-PHF score (local bone quality in proximal humerus fractures), developed based on these two variables was able to predict LBQ with a sensitivity of 79.2% and a specificity of 86.7%.

Conclusion
Age and coronal humeral head alignment are independent predictors of LBQ in PHF. A simple scoring system developed based on these variables is able to assess BQ with solid predictive characteristics.
Extreme hepatectomy with modified ALPPS in a rat model: gradual portal vein restriction associated with hepatic artery restriction
Authors: He Xiaoqin , Zhang Yuefeng , Ma Peng , Mou Zuo , Wang Wei , Yu Kaihuan , Wang Weixing 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background & aim
Associating liver partition and portal vein ligation (PVL) for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) is a creative strategy for enlarging the future liver remnant (FLR) and increasing the tumor resectability rate. However, the indications for ALPPS must have a certain limit when the FLR is too small. We aimed to establish a modified ALPPS model with more widen applicability in rats.

Methods
An extreme ALPPS model was established in rodents with only a 6.5% FLR. The portal vein (PV) was subjected to restriction to different degrees, then the portal vein pressure (PVP) was measured. Then, different modifications of ALPPS, including hepatic artery restriction (HAR), gradual portal vein restriction (GPVR), and GPVR-associated HAR (HAR+GPVR), were applied in the extreme ALPPS models.

Results
PVL or PVR provoked an immediate increase in the PVP. The PVP in the PVR -1.28 mm, PVR -0.81 mm, PVR -0.63 mm, and PVL groups was 11.05±1.57 cmH2O, 16.18±1.92 cmH2O, 20.66±1.99 cmH2O, and 24.10±3.33 cmH2O, respectively, and the corresponding 3-day survival rate was 100%, 90.09%, 36.33% and 0, respectively. Then, in the extreme ALPPS model, the growth ratio of the FLR in the control, HAR, GPVR, and HAR+GPVR groups was 0.43±0.21, 0.50±0.16, 4.80±0.86, and 7.40±2.56, and as a consequence, the corresponding 30-day survival rate was 9.09%, 15.38%, 84.61% and 92.90%, respectively.

Conclusion
ALPPS itself has a limit, and high PVP after PVL contributes to postoperative death in the extreme ALPPS model. Furthermore, a modified method for extreme ALPPS is proposed, i.e., GPVR+HAR in place of PVL, which significantly improves the survival rate of extreme hepatectomy in rat models.
Knowledge assessment on cleft lip and palate among recently graduated dentists: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Agha Bahn , Helal Narmin Mohammed Saeed , Al-Khafaji Thaer Jaber , Farie Ghada Abdullah , Basri Osama , Fleming Padhraig S. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The complex presentation, associated co-morbidities and multi-disciplinary requirements dictate the requirement for in-depth knowledge in order to effectively manage patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP). We aimed to develop a validated questionnaire for cleft lip and palate knowledge assessment and to evaluate the knowledge of cleft lip and palate among a group of recently-graduated dentists.

Materials and methods
A multiple-site, cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted. The study population included recently graduated dentists involved in a dental internship program. A bespoke questionnaire was developed and validated, with internal consistency assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and factor analysis performed. A 47-item prototype was distilled into a 15-item questionnaire. This was distributed to the participants with a response rate of 67% obtained.

Results
The overall proportion of correct responses among dental interns was moderate (73%). The best results were found in relation to CLP treatment including the effect of unfavorable surgical outcomes on speech (89.5%) and the impact of CLP on the occlusion (87.6%). The lowest rate of correct responses (26.7%) was identified in relation to the association between CLP and smoking.

Conclusion
A validated CLP questionnaire was developed, permitting evaluation of the knowledge of cleft lip and palate and its management among recently graduated dentists. There is limited appreciation among dental interns of the risk factors for CLP as well as post-surgical complications. Given that general dentists are often the gatekeepers for the management of patients with cleft lip and palate, it is important that the findings of this survey are used to inform the curriculum and teaching of cleft lip and palate.
Revolutionising dental technologies: a qualitative study on dental technicians’ perceptions of Artificial intelligence integration
Authors: Lin Galvin Sim Siang , Ng Yook Shiang , Ghani Nik Rozainah Nik Abdul , Chua Kah Hoay 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry has the potential to revolutionise the field of dental technologies. However, dental technicians’ views on the use of AI in dental technology are still sparse in the literature. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perceptions of dental technicians regarding the use of AI in their dental laboratory practice.

Methods
Twelve dental technicians with at least five years of professional experience and currently working in Malaysia agreed to participate in the one-to-one in-depth online interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and translated. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify patterns, themes, and categories within the interview transcripts.

Results
The analysis revealed two key themes: “Perceived Benefits of AI” and “Concerns and Challenges”. Dental technicians recognised the enhanced efficiency, productivity, accuracy, and precision that AI can bring to dental laboratories. They also acknowledged the streamlined workflow and improved communication facilitated by AI systems. However, concerns were raised regarding job security, professional identity, ethical considerations, and the need for adequate training and support.

Conclusion
This research sheds light on the potential benefits and challenges associated with the integration of AI in dental laboratory practices. Understanding these perceptions and addressing the challenges can support the effective integration of AI in dental laboratories and contribute to the growing body of literature on AI in healthcare.
Perceived patient safety culture and its associated factors among clinical managers of tertiary hospitals: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: He Haiyan , Chen Xi , Tian Lingyun , Long Yanfang , Li Li , Yang Ning , Tang Siyuan 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Patient safety is a global challenge influenced by perceived patient safety culture. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the patient safety culture perceived by hospital clinical managers and its associated factors. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of patient safety culture and associated factors among clinical managers of tertiary hospitals in China.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 19 to July 16, 2021, involving 539 clinical managers from four tertiary hospitals in Changsha City of Hunan Province. The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) was utilized to assess perceived patient safety culture. Bivariate, multivariable linear regression, and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results
The mean score for the total HSOPSC was 72.5 ± 7.6, with dimensional scores ranging from 62.1 (14.9) to 86.6 (11.7). Three dimensions exhibited positive response rates (PRRs) < 50%, indicating areas that need to be improved: “nonpunitive response to errors” (40.5%), “staffing” (41.9%), and “frequency of events reported” (47.4%). Specialized hospitals (β = 1.744, P = 0.037), female gender (β = 2.496, P = 0.003), higher professional title (β = 1.413, P = 0.049), a higher education level (β = 1.316, P = 0.001), and shorter time delays per shift (β=-1.13, P < 0.001) were correlated with higher perceived patient safety culture. Education level, work department, “teamwork within a unit”, “management support for patient safety”, “communication openness”, and “staffing” dimensions were associated with patient safety grades (all P < 0.05). Years worked in hospitals, occupation, education level, work department, hospital nature, professional title, “communication openness”, and “handoffs & transitions” were associated with the number of adverse events reported (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions
Our study revealed a generally low level of patient safety culture perceived by clinical managers and identified priority areas requiring urgent improvement. The associated factors of patient safety culture provide important guidance for the development of targeted interventions in the future. Promoting patient safety by optimizing the patient safety culture perceived by clinical managers should be prioritized.
How can tuberculosis services better support patients with a diabetes co-morbidity? A mixed methods study in the Philippines
Authors: Oliveira Hashiguchi Lauren , Cox Sharon E. , Edwards Tansy , Castro Mary C. , Khan Mishal , Liverani Marco 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
People with diabetes mellitus (DM) have an estimated two- to three-times greater risk of adverse tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes compared to those without DM. Blood glucose control is a primary aim of managing DM during TB treatment, yet TB programmes are not generally adapted to provide DM services. The purpose of this study was to understand perceptions and the lived experiences of diabetic patients in TB treatment in the Philippines, with a view to informing the development of disease co-management strategies.

Methods
This mixed methods study was conducted within a prospective cohort of adults newly-starting treatment for drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB at 13 public TB clinics in three regions of the Philippines. Within the subset of 189 diabetic persons who self-reported a prior DM diagnosis, or were diagnosed by screenings conducted through the TB clinic, longitudinal blood glucose data were used to ascertain individuals’ glycaemic control (controlled or uncontrolled). Univariable logistic regression analyses exploring associations between uncontrolled glycaemia and demographic and clinical factors informed purposive sampling of 31 people to participate in semi-structured interviews. All audio-recorded data were transcribed and thematic analysis performed.

Results
Participants — both with controlled and uncontrolled blood glucose — were knowledgeable about diabetes and its management. However, a minority of participants were aware of the impact of DM on TB treatment and outcomes. Many participants newly-diagnosed with DM at enrolment in TB treatment had not perceived any diabetic symptoms prior and would have likely not sought clinical consult otherwise. Access to free glucose-lowering medications through TB clinics was a key enabling resource. However, participants expressed fear of side effects and interrupted access to glucose-lowering medications, and a preference for phytotherapy. Many participants felt that physical and financial impacts of TB and its treatment were challenges to DM management.

Conclusions and recommendations
Results of this study indicate that public TB clinics can provide diabetic patients with additional health care resources and education to address co-morbidity. TB programmes might consider identifying patients with complicated DM, and offering diabetic monitoring and management, as DM and diabetic complications may compound the burden of TB and its treatment.
Addressing conflicts of interest regarding the vaccine in infectious disease outbreaks based on good governance for health approach: a policy brief
Authors: Soleimani Nazanin , Ghoshouni Hamed , Mostafavi Hakimeh , Modiri Mohammad Hossein , Attar Mohammad Hasan Movahedian , Mousavi Seyed Masood 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Background
Infectious disease outbreaks pose a significant threat to public health, and achieving herd immunity highlights the importance of addressing conflicts of interest (COI) in vaccine development and policy-making. This policy brief aims to present policy options that address COI regarding vaccines in infectious disease outbreaks, based on good governance for health approach.

Methods
Our study used a scoping review methodology. We conducted a systematic search, which led to identifying 43 eligible articles. A qualitative approach (i.e., content analysis) was employed for data analysis, using “ATLAS.ti 9” software. The primary results underwent a process of cleaning, categorisation, and subsequent discussion in three sessions with the research team.

Results
Relationships between theindustry and “government/policymakers” as well as "academic institutions/researchers" are prominent origins of COI regarding the vaccine in infectious disease outbreaks. To address this issue, we present nine policy options that target both the root cause of the problem and the adoption of good governance for health approach.

Conclusions
The key principles of good governance for health, including, “Transparency”, “The Rule of Law”, “Effectiveness”, “Efficiency”, “Participation”, “Consensus Orientation”, “Equality”, “Responsibility”, “Responsiveness” and “Accountability” must be taken into account when formulating policy options to address COI regarding the vaccine in infectious disease outbreaks. The effectiveness of the policy options outlined in this policy brief should be assessed in practical contexts, as this evaluation may uncover the need for revisions.