bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PCSK9 inhibitor recaticimab for hypercholesterolemia on stable statin dose: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1b/2 study
Authors: Xu Mingtong , Zhu Xiaoxue , Wu Junyan , Zhang Yuling , Zhao Dong , Wang Xuhong , Ding Yanhua , Cao Yu , Li Chengqian , Hu Wei , Sheng Jianlong , Luo Zhu , Zheng Zeqi , Hu Jinfang , Liu Jianying , Zhou Xiaoyang , Shen Aizong , Ding Xiaomei , Zhang Yongdong , Zhao Yonggang , Li Yijing , Zhong Sheng , An Shimin , Zou Jianjun , Yan Li 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Recaticimab (SHR-1209, a humanized monoclonal antibody against PCSK9) showed robust LDL-C reduction in healthy volunteers. This study aimed to further assess the efficacy and safety of recaticimab in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

Methods
In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1b/2 trial, patients receiving stable dose of atorvastatin with an LDL-C level of 2.6 mmol/L or higher were randomized in a ratio of 5:1 to subcutaneous injections of recaticimab or placebo at different doses and schedules. Patients were recruited in the order of 75 mg every 4 weeks (75Q4W), 150Q8W, 300Q12W, 150Q4W, 300Q8W, and 450Q12W. The primary endpoint was percentage change in LDL-C from the baseline to end of treatment (i.e., at week 16 for Q4W and Q8W schedule and at week 24 for Q12W schedule).

Results
A total of 91 patients were enrolled and received recaticimab and 19 received placebo. The dose of background atorvastatin in all 110 patients was 10 or 20 mg/day. The main baseline LDL-C ranged from 3.360 to 3.759 mmol/L. The least-squares mean percentage reductions in LDL-C from baseline to end of treatment relative to placebo for recaticimab groups at different doses and schedules ranged from −48.37 to −59.51%. No serious treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred. The most common TEAEs included upper respiratory tract infection, increased alanine aminotransferase, increased blood glucose, and increased gamma-glutamyltransferase.

Conclusion
Recaticimab as add-on to moderate-intensity statin therapy significantly and substantially reduced the LDL-C level with an infrequent administration schedule (even given once every 12 weeks), compared with placebo.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT03944109
Molecular characterization of Trypanosoma evansi, T. vivax and T. congolense in camels (Camelus dromedarius) of KSA
Authors: Al Malki Jamila S. , Hussien Nahed Ahmed 
Published: January 2022

AbstractBackgroundTrypanosoma evansiis the leading infectiousTrypanosomaspp.in camels (Camelus dromedarius) present in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) that could lead to extensive economic losses. The present study was aimed to assess the prevalence rate ofT. evansiin Taif governorate, Makkah province, KSA using parasitological and molecular evaluations, and analyze their genetic relationship targeting internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and variable surface glycoprotein (VSG) genes. For evaluation, we have used 102 blood samples of camels obtained from three different regions in Taif.ResultsResults show a considerable prevalence rate of trypanosomosis 2/102 (2.0%) according to Giemsa-stained buffy coat smear, and 16/102 (15.7%) according to touchdown PCR.T. evansi(n = 10/102, 9.8%) was the main infectious species found in camels thenT. vivax(n = 3/102, 2.9%). Mixed infections were detected in three camels withT. evansi,T. vivax, andT. congolense(n = 3/102, 2.9%). Regarding gender, the results indicate that female camels (11/66, 16.7%) show higher prevalence ofTrypanosomathan males (5/36, 13.9%). Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of ITS1 and VSG showed their relationships withT. evansiin other hosts from different countries.ConclusionsIn our peer knowledge, it is the first time to report a research-based prevalence of trypanosomosis in the camels of Taif governorate, Makkah province, KSA.
Measuring patient satisfaction in an outpatient psychiatric clinic. What factors play a role?
Authors: Romanowicz Magdalena , Oesterle Tyler S. , Croarkin Paul E. , Sutor Bruce 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Introduction
Patient satisfaction is defined as the perception that one’s general health care needs are being met. Prior research suggests that positive patient satisfaction with health care facilitates the physician–patient relationship and enhances quality of life.

Objective
The primary purpose of this study was to assess patient satisfaction (as measured by the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18)) of patients observed by general psychiatry residents and to examine the effects of depression and anxiety on patient satisfaction. A secondary purpose was to explore the effects of three 1-h mentalization-based skills training sessions on the PSQ-18 scores of psychiatric residents. We hypothesized that depressive and anxiety symptoms would negatively impact patient satisfaction. We hypothesized that patients’ satisfaction scores would improve after mentalization training.

Methods
This was a prospective case–controlled study, enrolling adult patients (n = 157) referred for psychiatric assessment in a psychiatric resident outpatient clinic. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction as measured by the PSQ-18. This outcome was compared to anxiety and depression symptoms as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item scale (GAD-7) questionnaires. Outcome data from the PSQ-18 were compared among residents before and after they completed mentalization training. The data were analyzed with univariate analyses and multiple linear regression.

Results
Overall the patients were satisfied with clinician communication and interpersonal manner (4.21 ± 0.66 and 4.15 ± 0.69, respectively). The patients score on PHQ-9 was inversely related to their scores on time spent (TS) (p = 0.01) and accessibility/convenience (AC) (p = 0.0009) subscales of the PSQ-18. GAD-7 score was inversely related to patients scores on AC subscale (p = 0.01). Brief mentalization training for the providers did not impact patient satisfaction scores.

Conclusions
Our study reveals that depression and anxiety can negatively impact PSQ-18 patient scoring in psychiatric outpatients observed for the first time in a resident clinic. However, this study failed to show that a brief mentalization-based training could improve patient satisfaction scores that were already quite high at baseline.
Predictors of competitive employment in individuals with severe mental illness: results from an observational, cross-sectional study in Germany
Authors: Gühne Uta , Pabst Alexander , Kösters Markus , Hasan Alkomiet , Falkai Peter , Kilian Reinhold , Allgöwer Andreas , Ajayi Klemens , Baumgärtner Jessica , Brieger Peter , Frasch Karel , Heres Stephan , Jäger Markus , Küthmann Andreas , Putzhammer Albert , Schneeweiß Bertram , Schwarz Michael , Becker Thomas , Breilmann Johanna , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Employment is of great importance as it is associated with various positive effects. Individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) are often excluded from competitive employment. Current data on employment of individuals with mental illness are rare, and influencing factors are under-researched. The present study examines possible predictors of competitive employment among individuals with SMI.

Methods
This was a cross-sectional and multicentered study of 300 individuals with SMI aged 18 to 65 years. The following inclusion criteria were used: (I) diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizotypal and delusional disorders (ICD-10 F2x), or affective disorders (ICD-10 F3x), (II) duration of psychiatric illness ≥ 2 years, and (III) substantial impact of illness on social functioning. Participants were interviewed by trained staff using standardised instruments. The relationship between potential predictors (age, sex, education, marital status, living situation, migration background, psychosocial functioning, age at first mental problem, physical illness, work ability) and employment was analysed using a hierarchic binary logistic regression model.

Results
Only one-third (34%) of participants were competitively employed. Almost one-third were unemployed (30%), and 28% reported early retirement due to mental illness. Psychosocial functioning was positively associated with competitive employment (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05 – 1.13, p < 0.001); concurrent chronic physical illness was negatively associated with competitive employment (OR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.21 – 0.71, p = 0.002).

Conclusions
Findings confirm a high risk of exclusion from competitive employment among individuals with SMI. Nonetheless, a substantial proportion of individuals are employed. Findings call for efforts to maintain or enhance workforce participation among individuals with SMI. A special focus should be placed on improving physical health and strengthening psychosocial functioning.

Trial registration
The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) under the registration number DRKS00015801 before the start of recruitment (Registration date: 21.02.2019).
Minimal residual disease detection by multicolor flow cytometry in cryopreserved ovarian tissue from leukemia patients
Authors: Zver Tristan , Frontczak Sophie , Poirot Catherine , Rives-Feraille Aurélie , Leroy-Martin Brigitte , Koscinski Isabelle , Arbez-Gindre Francine , Garnache-Ottou Francine , Roux Christophe , Amiot Clotilde 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is a fertility-preservation option for women before gonadotoxic treatments. However, cryopreserved ovarian tissue transplantation must be performed with caution in women with malignancies that may metastasize to the ovaries. For this purpose, detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) in the ovarian cortex using sensitive methods is a crucial step. We developed an automated ovarian tissue dissociation method to obtain ovarian cell suspensions.

Results
We assessed MRD by multicolor flow cytometry (MFC) in cryopreserved ovarian cortex of 15 leukemia patients: 6 with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), 2 with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) and 7 with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Ovarian MRD was positive in 5 of the 15 leukemia patients (one T-ALL and 4 AML). No B-ALL patient was positive by MFC. Quantitative reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction was performed when a molecular marker was available, and confirmed the MFC results for 3 patients tested. Xenografts into immunodeficient mice were also performed with ovarian cortical tissue from 10 leukemia patients, with no evidence of leukemic cells after the 6-month grafting period.

Conclusions
In conclusion, this is the first study using MFC to detect MRD in ovarian cortical tissue from acute leukemia patients. MFC has been accepted in clinical practice for its ease of use, the large number of parameters available simultaneously, and high throughput analysis. We demonstrate here that MFC is a reliable method to detect MRD in cryopreserved ovarian tissue, with a view to controlling the oncological risk before ovarian tissue transplantation in leukemia patients.
Mental imagery interventions to promote face covering use among UK university students and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Conroy Dominic 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has witnessed wide-ranging efforts to minimize the spread of the virus and to protect those most vulnerable to becoming unwell following viral infection. Core COVID-19 preventive measures include social distancing, regular hand washing, and wearing face coverings in public places. Understanding links between social cognitive factors relating to beliefs/skills is important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, as this can suggest which factors might be targeted via behaviour change interventions to promote adherence to COVID-19 preventative behaviours. In this context, mental imagery exercises—self-directed imagining of an anticipated outcome or processes linked to a defined behaviour/activity—offer a well-evidenced, relatively simple behaviour change intervention. In the mental imagery invention reported in this protocol, individuals will be randomly assigned to one of four separate conditions (outcome imagery, process imagery, outcome and process imagery, control).

Methods
The primary objective of this randomized controlled study is to assess the effectiveness of a mental imagery intervention on wearing face coverings, as a defined core COVID-19 preventative behaviour. Participants will consist of UK university students and university employees of any age. Participants will be randomized to complete an ‘outcome imagery’ or a ‘process imagery’ exercise, both exercises (i.e. a combined condition) or neither exercise (i.e. a control condition). A total of 260 individuals will be recruited into the study. Outcomes for all study condition arms will be assessed at baseline (Time 1), immediately post-intervention (Time 2), and at 1-month follow-up (Time 3).
The primary outcome is frequency of wearing face covering, as reported at T2 and T3. Secondary outcomes include intervention effects on face covering attitudes, social norms, perceived behavioural control and barrier self-efficacy at T2 and T3. Putative moderators of intervention effects are conscientiousness, narcissism and ‘light triad’ personality traits.

Discussion
This trial will contribute toward the currently sparse evidence base concerning behaviour change techniques designed to promote COVID-19 preventative behaviours among UK university students and university employees.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov (U.S. National Library of Medicine) NCT04583449. Retrospectively registered on 20 October 2020.
Production of succinic acid through the fermentation of Actinobacillus succinogenes on the hydrolysate of Napier grass
Authors: Lee Jhih-Sing , Lin Cheng-Jia , Lee Wen-Chien , Teng Hsin-Yi , Chuang Meng-Hsin 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Napier grass biomass can be hydrolyzed mainly containing glucose and xylose after alkaline pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis. This biomass can be fermented using Actinobacillus succinogenes to produce succinic acid. The yield of succinic acid was 0.58 g/g. Because metabolizing xylose could produce more acetic acid, this yield of succinic acid was lower than that achieved using glucose as the sole carbon source.

Results
The addition of glycerol as a fermentation substrate to Napier grass hydrolysate increased the reducing power of the hydrolysate, which not only increased the production of succinic acid but also reduced the formation of undesirable acetic acid in bacterial cells. At a hydrolysate:glycerol ratio of 10:1, the succinic acid yield reached 0.65 g/g. The succinic acid yield increased to 0.88 g/g when a 1:1 ratio of hydrolysate:glycerol was used. For the recovery of succinic acid from the fermentation broth, an outside-in module of an ultrafiltration membrane was used to remove bacterial cells. Air sparging at the feed side with a flow rate of 3 L/min increased the filtration rate. When the air flow rate was increased from 0 to 3 L/min, the average filtration rate increased from 25.0 to 45.7 mL/min, which corresponds to an increase of 82.8%. The clarified fermentation broth was then electrodialized to separate succinate from other contaminated ions. After electrodialysis, the acid products were concentrated through water removal, decolorized through treatment with activated carbon, and precipitated to obtain a purified product.

Conclusions
The yield of succinic acid was increased by adding glycerol to the hydrolysate of Napier grass. The downstream processing consisting of ultrafiltration membrane separation and single-stage electrodialysis was effective for product separation and purification. An overall recovery yield of 74.7% ± 4.5% and a purity of 99.4% ± 0.1% were achieved for succinic acid.
Calciphylaxis of the penis and distal digits: a case report
Authors: Smilnak Gordon , Jiang Michael , Jain Bijal 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Background
Calciphylaxis is a rare, often fatal disease resulting from calcification of dermal arterioles and capillaries. Usually diagnosed in patients with end-stage renal disease, this disorder typically presents as necrotic, nonhealing ulcers in acral or adipose areas. Here we report the case of an elderly man who was found to have calciphylaxis of the distal digits and penis, the latter of which is an uncommon site of disease that carries a particularly poor prognosis.

Case presentation
A 73-year-old African American man with multiple medical comorbidities including dialysis-dependent end-stage renal disease presented with worsening painful, necrotic lesions on his glans penis and several distal digits over the last 2 months. The wound on the glans was foul smelling with overlying purulence and had been unsuccessfully treated with amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Discovery of diffuse intravascular calcification on computed tomography, in addition to a markedly elevated calcium–phosphate product immediately prior to the onset of his ulcers, led to the diagnosis of calciphylaxis. The patient was initiated on sodium thiosulfate without improvement in his lesions, and he died 3 months later after another prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusions
While calciphylaxis is a rare disease, involvement of the distal digits and especially the penis is even more uncommon and portends a particularly poor prognosis: 6-month mortality rates are reportedly as high as 70%. This suggests that prompt recognition and management of the disease is required; however, despite receiving standard therapy, our patient failed to experience improvement in his disease and instead developed several more fingertip ulcers at blood glucose sample points during his hospitalization. A corollary of the case presented here is the need for more effective management of calciphylaxis, especially for patients in whom uncommon sites, such as the penis, are involved.
Storage and efficacy of entomopathogenic nematode species as a biocontrol agent against the armyworm, Spodoptera litura (FABRICIUS) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Javed Salma , Khanum Tabassum Ara , Ali Ashraf 
Published: January 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe armyworm,Spodoptera litura(FABRICIUS) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a widely distributed polyphagous pest that is seriously affecting more than 100 different hosts. Globally, biopesticides are becoming the mainstream as chemicals and biocontrol agents gain more of the market share every year, because some of these biocontrol measures prevent the economic disruption of food crops.ResultsFor storage, 3 substrates were tested for entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), viz., polyether polyurethane sponge, distilled water and soil. Best storage medium was found to be polyether polyurethane sponge for 2–12 months of storage at 15–18 °C. For biocontrol evaluation four species of Steinernematidae;Steinernema pakistanense, S. siamkayai,S. ceratophorumandS. bifurcatum, and one species of Heterorhabditidae;Heterorhabditis indica, were used against the armyworm. At 350 IJs/mlS. pakistanense;S. siamkayai,S. ceratophorum,S. bifurcatumandH.indica, showed 95, 78, 74, 90 and 87% mortality, respectively.ConclusionsNematode species, long-term storage and shelf life are important considerations for the success of EPNs against target insect pests which in turn are a prerequisite for successful commercialization and this can be achieved by maximum survival of IJs in a formulation for a long period before their utilization in the field.
Perception of Master of Public Health Students regarding E-Learning in Covid-19 Era: A New Normal in Lower- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Aleem Saima , Mahsood Naheed , Kibria Zeeshan , Gul Rubeena 
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To explore the perception of postgraduate public health students regarding e-learning in context to Covid-19 pandemic and its effect on their academic performances
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Sarhad Institute of Health Science, SUIT Peshawar from 3rd October 2020 to 4th February 2021. The Census method was incorporated for sample selection. Participation in the study was subjected to consent by participants. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version-26.
Results: Out of 95 participants, 72 (75.8%) were males and 23 (24.2%) were females. The mean grade point average (GPA) of previous semester-1 and semester-2, when they were having a conventional education system on campus before the pandemic was 2.741±0.499 and 2.643±.498 respectively. The current mean GPA of semesters 1, 2, and 3 who had online classes during this pandemic was 2.41±0.66, 3.06±0.51, and 2.80±0.47 respectively. Fifty-one (53.7%) students preferred to use mobile for e-learning. Convenience to the use-learning management system (LMS) was 67.4% and 72.6% responded that their academic performance was positively affected by e-learning. Logistic regression revealed that source of learning (p 0.99), uninterrupted internet (p 0.87), convenience with LMS (p 0.17), stress (p 0.505), convenient communication with faculty (p 0.69), and compatibility with professional routine (p 0.21) were not significantly associated with good academic performance, however, students of semester 2 (p 0.001) and those using laptops (p 0.02) were more likely to get a GPA of 3.0 or above
Conclusions: Students in this study had a positive perception regarding e-learning however, there is a definite need to amalgamate both online and on-campus learning modalities for post-graduate students especially during the uncertain situations.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4626
How to cite this:Aleem S, Mahsood N, Kibria Z, Gul R. Perception of Master of Public Health Students regarding E-Learning in Covid-19 Era: A New Normal in Lower- and Middle-Income Countries. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4626
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.