PeerJ:Drugs and Deviceshttps://peerj.com/articles/index.atom?journal=peerj&subject=4100Drugs and Devices articles published in PeerJReliability and validity of an app-assisted tissue compliance meter in measuring tissue stiffness on a phantom modelhttps://peerj.com/articles/171222024-03-072024-03-07Andreas BrandlEda AcikalinKatja BartschJan WilkeRobert Schleip
Background
Most methods for soft tissue stiffness assessment require high financial resources, significant technical effort, or extensive therapist training. The PACT Sense device was developed to be used in a wide range of applications and user groups. However, to date, there are no data on its validity and reliability. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the PACT device.
Methods
A polyurethane phantom tissue model (PTM) mimicking the mechanical properties of the fascia profunda and the erector spinae muscle was used. Stiffness measurements with PACT were conducted by two independent investigators. For construct validity, correlations were calculated between the known stiffness of the PTM and values obtained with PACT. For concurrent validity, we determined the association between the PACT values and additional measurements with the established MyotonPRO device. To estimate interrater and intrarater (two measurements with an interval of 7 days) reliability, we used the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).
Results
Correlation analysis (PTM/PACT) revealed very high concurrent validity (r = 0.99; p < 0.001), construct validity (PACT/MyotonPRO) was 0.87, p < 0.001. Both, interrater reliability (ICC = 0.85; p = 0.036) and intrarater reliability were good (ICC = 0.89; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
The PACT provides valid and reliable stiffness measurements in tissue phantoms. Further studies in humans are needed to confirm its physiometric properties under in vivo conditions.
Background
Most methods for soft tissue stiffness assessment require high financial resources, significant technical effort, or extensive therapist training. The PACT Sense device was developed to be used in a wide range of applications and user groups. However, to date, there are no data on its validity and reliability. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the PACT device.
Methods
A polyurethane phantom tissue model (PTM) mimicking the mechanical properties of the fascia profunda and the erector spinae muscle was used. Stiffness measurements with PACT were conducted by two independent investigators. For construct validity, correlations were calculated between the known stiffness of the PTM and values obtained with PACT. For concurrent validity, we determined the association between the PACT values and additional measurements with the established MyotonPRO device. To estimate interrater and intrarater (two measurements with an interval of 7 days) reliability, we used the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).
Results
Correlation analysis (PTM/PACT) revealed very high concurrent validity (r = 0.99; p < 0.001), construct validity (PACT/MyotonPRO) was 0.87, p < 0.001. Both, interrater reliability (ICC = 0.85; p = 0.036) and intrarater reliability were good (ICC = 0.89; p < 0.001).
Conclusions
The PACT provides valid and reliable stiffness measurements in tissue phantoms. Further studies in humans are needed to confirm its physiometric properties under in vivo conditions.Effect of lag screw on stability of first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with medial platehttps://peerj.com/articles/169012024-02-282024-02-28Karol DaszkiewiczMagdalena RuckaKrzysztof CzurajAngela AndrzejewskaPiotr Łuczkiewicz
Background
First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP-1) arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure in the treatment of disorders of the great toe. Since the incidence of revision after MTP-1 joint arthrodesis is not insignificant, a medial approach with a medially positioned locking plate has been proposed as a new technique. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the application of a lag screw on the stability and strength of first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with medial plate.
Methods
The bending tests in a testing machine were performed for models of the first metatarsal bone and the proximal phalanx printed on a 3D printer from polylactide material. The bones were joined using the locking titanium plate and six locking screws. The specimens were divided into three groups of seven each: medial plate and no lag screw, medial plate with a lag screw, dorsal plate with a lag screw. The tests were carried out quasi-static until the samples failure.
Results
The addition of the lag screw to the medial plate significantly increased flexural stiffness (41.45 N/mm vs 23.84 N/mm, p = 0.002), which was lower than that of the dorsal plate with a lag screw (81.29 N/mm, p < 0.001). The similar maximum force greater than 700 N (p > 0.50) and the relative bone displacements lower than 0.5 mm for a force of 50 N were obtained for all fixation techniques.
Conclusions
The lag screw significantly increased the shear stiffness in particular and reduced relative transverse displacements to the level that should not delay the healing process for the full load of the MTP-1 joint arthrodesis with the medial plate. It is recommended to use the locking screws with a larger cross-sectional area of the head to minimize rotation of the medial plate relative to the metatarsal bone.
Background
First metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP-1) arthrodesis is a commonly performed procedure in the treatment of disorders of the great toe. Since the incidence of revision after MTP-1 joint arthrodesis is not insignificant, a medial approach with a medially positioned locking plate has been proposed as a new technique. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the application of a lag screw on the stability and strength of first metatarsophalangeal joint arthrodesis with medial plate.
Methods
The bending tests in a testing machine were performed for models of the first metatarsal bone and the proximal phalanx printed on a 3D printer from polylactide material. The bones were joined using the locking titanium plate and six locking screws. The specimens were divided into three groups of seven each: medial plate and no lag screw, medial plate with a lag screw, dorsal plate with a lag screw. The tests were carried out quasi-static until the samples failure.
Results
The addition of the lag screw to the medial plate significantly increased flexural stiffness (41.45 N/mm vs 23.84 N/mm, p = 0.002), which was lower than that of the dorsal plate with a lag screw (81.29 N/mm, p < 0.001). The similar maximum force greater than 700 N (p > 0.50) and the relative bone displacements lower than 0.5 mm for a force of 50 N were obtained for all fixation techniques.
Conclusions
The lag screw significantly increased the shear stiffness in particular and reduced relative transverse displacements to the level that should not delay the healing process for the full load of the MTP-1 joint arthrodesis with the medial plate. It is recommended to use the locking screws with a larger cross-sectional area of the head to minimize rotation of the medial plate relative to the metatarsal bone.A comparative study of stereopsis measurements: analyzing natural conditions versus dichoptic presentation using smartphones and ultraviolet printer technologyhttps://peerj.com/articles/169412024-02-122024-02-12Lu LiuJiang LiuLingxian XuLingzhi ZhaoHuang Wu
Background
Accurate differentiation between stereopsis assessments in the natural and dichoptic presentation states has proven challenging with commercial stereopsis measurement tools. This study proposes a novel method to delineate these differences more precisely.
Methods
We instituted two stereopsis test systems predicated on a pair of 4K smartphones and a modified Frisby Near Stereotest (FNS) version. Stereoacuity was evaluated both in the natural environment state (via the modified FNS) and the dichoptic state (via smartphones). Thirty subjects aged 20 to 28 years participated in the study with the best-corrected visual acuity (VA) of each eye no less than 0 logMAR and stereoauity of no worse than 40″. Varying degrees of monocular VA loss were induced using the fogging method, while this study does not explore conditions where the VA of both eyes is worse than 0 logMAR.
Results
When the VA difference between the two eyes did not exceed 0.2 logMAR, the modified FNS produced lower stereoacuity values compared to the 4K smartphones (Wilcoxon signed-rank test: difference = 0 logMAR, Z = −3.879, P < 0.001; difference = 0.1 logMAR, Z = −3.478, P = 0.001; difference = 0.2 logMAR, Z = −3.977, P < 0.001). Conversely, no significant differences were observed when the binocular vision difference exceeded 0.2 logMAR (difference = 0.3 logMAR, Z = −1.880, P = 0.060; difference = 0.4 logMAR, Z = −1.784, P = 0.074; difference = 0.5 logMAR, Z = −1.812, P = 0.070).
Conclusion
The findings suggest that stereoacuity values measurements taken in the natural environment state surpass those derived from the dichoptic presentation. However, the observed difference diminishes as stereopsis decreases, corresponding to an increase in induced anisometropia.
Background
Accurate differentiation between stereopsis assessments in the natural and dichoptic presentation states has proven challenging with commercial stereopsis measurement tools. This study proposes a novel method to delineate these differences more precisely.
Methods
We instituted two stereopsis test systems predicated on a pair of 4K smartphones and a modified Frisby Near Stereotest (FNS) version. Stereoacuity was evaluated both in the natural environment state (via the modified FNS) and the dichoptic state (via smartphones). Thirty subjects aged 20 to 28 years participated in the study with the best-corrected visual acuity (VA) of each eye no less than 0 logMAR and stereoauity of no worse than 40″. Varying degrees of monocular VA loss were induced using the fogging method, while this study does not explore conditions where the VA of both eyes is worse than 0 logMAR.
Results
When the VA difference between the two eyes did not exceed 0.2 logMAR, the modified FNS produced lower stereoacuity values compared to the 4K smartphones (Wilcoxon signed-rank test: difference = 0 logMAR, Z = −3.879, P < 0.001; difference = 0.1 logMAR, Z = −3.478, P = 0.001; difference = 0.2 logMAR, Z = −3.977, P < 0.001). Conversely, no significant differences were observed when the binocular vision difference exceeded 0.2 logMAR (difference = 0.3 logMAR, Z = −1.880, P = 0.060; difference = 0.4 logMAR, Z = −1.784, P = 0.074; difference = 0.5 logMAR, Z = −1.812, P = 0.070).
Conclusion
The findings suggest that stereoacuity values measurements taken in the natural environment state surpass those derived from the dichoptic presentation. However, the observed difference diminishes as stereopsis decreases, corresponding to an increase in induced anisometropia.Examining factors influencing public knowledge and practice of proper face mask usage during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional studyhttps://peerj.com/articles/168892024-02-082024-02-08Vigneshwaran EaswaranSultan AlshahraniMohammad Jaffar Sadiq MantargiBhavana BommireddyNoohu Abdulla KhanSirajudeen Shaik AlavudeenNarayana GoruntlaTahani AlmeleebiaUsman ThattarauthodiyilMuhammad Awais
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic had an enormous impact on people’s quality of life worldwide. Appropriate use of facemasks is an important checkpoint in containing the spread of infection, which was believed to provide the desired level of protection and preserve the community. Given the relative novelty of facemask use in the general population, it is imperative to prioritize the promotion of appropriate facemask utilization and identify factors that may contribute to poor adherence.
Aim
This study assessed the factors that determined facemask use among the public.
Methods
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among the residents of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between November 2020 and January 2021. The current study explored the factors such as demographic characteristics influencing the knowledge and practice of proper use of facemasks. The study included a total of 198 participants. The results were derived through binomial logistic regression analysis to determine the relationship between the demographic characteristics and responses.
Results
The key findings of the study which are crucial in developing targeted intervention strategies to enhance the responsible use and disposal of facemasks are gender, income and employment. A significant difference was found between male and female participants regarding a positive approach to using facemasks, such as washing their hands (P = 0.042). In addition, homemakers differed significantly from students, regarding the correct usage of facemasks (P = 0.026). The study participants were aware that hand hygiene is essential when putting on and removing facemasks. Despite wearing facemasks properly, adult participants possessed less knowledge about the hazards of reusing facemasks and appropriate disposal (OR = 0.202, 95% CI [0.032–1.298]).
Conclusion
The present research identified gender, income, and employment as the primary attributes that play a pivotal role in the formulation of focused intervention tactics aimed at improving the cautious use and appropriate disposal of facemasks. It is essential to implement nationwide awareness activities, such as information campaigns, to enhance knowledge. Health authorities should establish a functional infrastructure for the collection and disposal of used facemasks by the general public, starting with the dissemination of knowledge. Moreover, the results of the present study have significant implications for health preventive programs aimed at preparing for future pandemics, since they highlight the specific demographic groups that should be prioritized in the development of such policies. Furthermore, it is advisable to integrate these interventional initiatives with national health polices to promote preparedness for handling future pandemics.
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic had an enormous impact on people’s quality of life worldwide. Appropriate use of facemasks is an important checkpoint in containing the spread of infection, which was believed to provide the desired level of protection and preserve the community. Given the relative novelty of facemask use in the general population, it is imperative to prioritize the promotion of appropriate facemask utilization and identify factors that may contribute to poor adherence.
Aim
This study assessed the factors that determined facemask use among the public.
Methods
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among the residents of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between November 2020 and January 2021. The current study explored the factors such as demographic characteristics influencing the knowledge and practice of proper use of facemasks. The study included a total of 198 participants. The results were derived through binomial logistic regression analysis to determine the relationship between the demographic characteristics and responses.
Results
The key findings of the study which are crucial in developing targeted intervention strategies to enhance the responsible use and disposal of facemasks are gender, income and employment. A significant difference was found between male and female participants regarding a positive approach to using facemasks, such as washing their hands (P = 0.042). In addition, homemakers differed significantly from students, regarding the correct usage of facemasks (P = 0.026). The study participants were aware that hand hygiene is essential when putting on and removing facemasks. Despite wearing facemasks properly, adult participants possessed less knowledge about the hazards of reusing facemasks and appropriate disposal (OR = 0.202, 95% CI [0.032–1.298]).
Conclusion
The present research identified gender, income, and employment as the primary attributes that play a pivotal role in the formulation of focused intervention tactics aimed at improving the cautious use and appropriate disposal of facemasks. It is essential to implement nationwide awareness activities, such as information campaigns, to enhance knowledge. Health authorities should establish a functional infrastructure for the collection and disposal of used facemasks by the general public, starting with the dissemination of knowledge. Moreover, the results of the present study have significant implications for health preventive programs aimed at preparing for future pandemics, since they highlight the specific demographic groups that should be prioritized in the development of such policies. Furthermore, it is advisable to integrate these interventional initiatives with national health polices to promote preparedness for handling future pandemics.The impact of the route of administration on the efficacy and safety of the drug therapy for patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants: a systematic review and meta-analysishttps://peerj.com/articles/165912024-01-292024-01-29Hanwen LuoJianghua HeXiaoming XuHongju ChenJing Shi
Background
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore the potential impact of the route of administration on the efficacy of therapies and occurrence of adverse events when administering medications to premature infants with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
Method
The protocol for this review has been registered with PROSPERO (CRD 42022324598). We searched relevant studies in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and the Web of Science databases from March 26, 1996, to January 31, 2022.
Results
A total of six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and five observational studies were included for analysis, involving 630 premature neonates in total. Among these infants, 480 were in the ibuprofen group (oral vs. intravenous routes), 78 in the paracetamol group (oral vs. intravenous routes), and 72 in the ibuprofen group (rectal vs. oral routes). Our meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in the rate of PDA closure between the the initial course of oral ibuprofen and intravenous ibuprofen groups (relative risk (RR) = 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.13–1.44]; P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%). In contrast, the meta-analysis of paracetamol administration via oral versus intravenous routes showed no significant difference in PDA closure rates (RR = 0.86, 95% CI [0.38–1.91]; P = 0.71, I2 = 76%). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of adverse events or the need for surgical intervention among various drug administration methods after the complete course of drug therapy.
Conclusion
This meta-analysis evaluated the safety and effectiveness of different medication routes for treating PDA in premature infants. Our analysis results revealed that compared with intravenous administration, oral ibuprofen may offer certain advantages in closing PDA without increasing the risk of adverse events. Conversely, the use of paracetamol demonstrated no significant difference in PDA closure and the risk of adverse events between oral and intravenous administration.
Background
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to explore the potential impact of the route of administration on the efficacy of therapies and occurrence of adverse events when administering medications to premature infants with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
Method
The protocol for this review has been registered with PROSPERO (CRD 42022324598). We searched relevant studies in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and the Web of Science databases from March 26, 1996, to January 31, 2022.
Results
A total of six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and five observational studies were included for analysis, involving 630 premature neonates in total. Among these infants, 480 were in the ibuprofen group (oral vs. intravenous routes), 78 in the paracetamol group (oral vs. intravenous routes), and 72 in the ibuprofen group (rectal vs. oral routes). Our meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in the rate of PDA closure between the the initial course of oral ibuprofen and intravenous ibuprofen groups (relative risk (RR) = 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.13–1.44]; P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%). In contrast, the meta-analysis of paracetamol administration via oral versus intravenous routes showed no significant difference in PDA closure rates (RR = 0.86, 95% CI [0.38–1.91]; P = 0.71, I2 = 76%). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of adverse events or the need for surgical intervention among various drug administration methods after the complete course of drug therapy.
Conclusion
This meta-analysis evaluated the safety and effectiveness of different medication routes for treating PDA in premature infants. Our analysis results revealed that compared with intravenous administration, oral ibuprofen may offer certain advantages in closing PDA without increasing the risk of adverse events. Conversely, the use of paracetamol demonstrated no significant difference in PDA closure and the risk of adverse events between oral and intravenous administration.Amlodipine and lufenuron as repurposing drugs against Sporothrix brasiliensishttps://peerj.com/articles/164432023-11-302023-11-30Vanice Rodrigues PoesterJéssica Estefania Dávila HidalgoLara Severo JardimMariana Rodrigues TrápagaVanessa Brito de Souza RabelloRodrigo Almeida-PaesRosely Maria Zancope-OliveiraMelissa Orzechowski Xavier
Background
Sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis is a globally emerging infectious disease with limited therapeutic options. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro activity of amlodipine (AML) and lufenuron (LUF) alone and their interaction with itraconazole (ITZ), the first-choice drug against S. brasiliensis.
Methods
Twenty clinical isolates of S. brasiliensis from two hyperendemic regions were tested through a microdilution assay to evaluate the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) of AML and LUF. Checkerboard assay was performed with 10 isolates for both drug interactions with ITZ.
Results
AML showed inhibitory and fungicidal activity against all isolates included, with MIC values ranging from 32 to 256 µg/mL, and MFC from 64 to 256 µg/mL. However, none of the S. brasiliensis isolates were inhibited by the highest soluble concentration of LUF (MIC >64 µg/mL for all strains). Synergic interaction of AML and LUF with ITZ occurred in 50% and 40% of the isolates tested, without any antagonistic effects.
Conclusion
Both repurposing drugs evaluated in our study showed a promising in vitro activity, especially in synergy with ITZ against S. brasiliensis, warranting future in vivo investigations regarding its activity.
Background
Sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis is a globally emerging infectious disease with limited therapeutic options. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the in vitro activity of amlodipine (AML) and lufenuron (LUF) alone and their interaction with itraconazole (ITZ), the first-choice drug against S. brasiliensis.
Methods
Twenty clinical isolates of S. brasiliensis from two hyperendemic regions were tested through a microdilution assay to evaluate the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) of AML and LUF. Checkerboard assay was performed with 10 isolates for both drug interactions with ITZ.
Results
AML showed inhibitory and fungicidal activity against all isolates included, with MIC values ranging from 32 to 256 µg/mL, and MFC from 64 to 256 µg/mL. However, none of the S. brasiliensis isolates were inhibited by the highest soluble concentration of LUF (MIC >64 µg/mL for all strains). Synergic interaction of AML and LUF with ITZ occurred in 50% and 40% of the isolates tested, without any antagonistic effects.
Conclusion
Both repurposing drugs evaluated in our study showed a promising in vitro activity, especially in synergy with ITZ against S. brasiliensis, warranting future in vivo investigations regarding its activity.Hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients: a questionnaire-based surveyhttps://peerj.com/articles/163842023-11-292023-11-29Tao LiuXiexiong ZhaoMiao HuangYan YangZhi ChenXin HeXiaogang LiWeihong Jiang
Background
Poor adherence to antihypertensive drugs is a major cause of unsatisfactory blood pressure control. Hypertension doctors play an integral role in improving medication adherence in hypertensive patients. Although most existing studies have recognized the status quo and influencing factors of medication adherence, little attention has been paid to hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice in hypertension management. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional survey. A self-reported questionnaire was developed and sent to hypertension doctors in Hunan province, China, between May 1, 2022 and July 1, 2022. Univariate and generalized linear models were used to identify the factors influencing hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice. The correlation between awareness and practice was determined using Spearman’s correlation coefficient.
Results
In total, 236 valid questionnaires were collected (valid response rate, 73.5%). Of the respondents, 44.1% were chief physicians and 64.4% were females. Approximately half of the respondents were ≥40 years old and had over 14 years of working experience. Most respondents (87.7%) did not have hypertension, but 54.2% had a family history of hypertension. The average awareness and practice scores were 29.8 ± 8.8 and 39.4 ± 7.1, respectively, out of 50, with higher scores indicating higher levels of awareness or practice. More hypertension consultations and more antihypertensive prescriptions issued were associated with better awareness and practice among respondents (ps < 0.05). Respondents with higher education and professional titles had higher awareness (ps < 0.05). Moreover, respondents with 6–13 years of work experience had better practice than those with <5 years of work experience (p = 0.017). There was a significant correlation between hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients (R = 0.682, p < 0.001). These findings indicate that misconceptions persist in hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of patient medication adherence.
Conclusion
Hypertension doctors lack sufficient and correct awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients.
Background
Poor adherence to antihypertensive drugs is a major cause of unsatisfactory blood pressure control. Hypertension doctors play an integral role in improving medication adherence in hypertensive patients. Although most existing studies have recognized the status quo and influencing factors of medication adherence, little attention has been paid to hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice in hypertension management. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional survey. A self-reported questionnaire was developed and sent to hypertension doctors in Hunan province, China, between May 1, 2022 and July 1, 2022. Univariate and generalized linear models were used to identify the factors influencing hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice. The correlation between awareness and practice was determined using Spearman’s correlation coefficient.
Results
In total, 236 valid questionnaires were collected (valid response rate, 73.5%). Of the respondents, 44.1% were chief physicians and 64.4% were females. Approximately half of the respondents were ≥40 years old and had over 14 years of working experience. Most respondents (87.7%) did not have hypertension, but 54.2% had a family history of hypertension. The average awareness and practice scores were 29.8 ± 8.8 and 39.4 ± 7.1, respectively, out of 50, with higher scores indicating higher levels of awareness or practice. More hypertension consultations and more antihypertensive prescriptions issued were associated with better awareness and practice among respondents (ps < 0.05). Respondents with higher education and professional titles had higher awareness (ps < 0.05). Moreover, respondents with 6–13 years of work experience had better practice than those with <5 years of work experience (p = 0.017). There was a significant correlation between hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients (R = 0.682, p < 0.001). These findings indicate that misconceptions persist in hypertension doctors’ awareness and practice of patient medication adherence.
Conclusion
Hypertension doctors lack sufficient and correct awareness and practice of medication adherence in hypertensive patients.Context of substance initiation among urban Native Americans: an exploratory retrospective case-control studyhttps://peerj.com/articles/164822023-11-272023-11-27Nicholas GuenzelHongying Daisy DaiLyndsay Dean
Background
Addiction is a significant problem among many Native American groups but has rarely been examined in urban populations. In particular, little is known about the context in which urban Native Americans first use substances. This study compares cases (people with a history of addiction) to controls (people without a history of addiction) on demographics, substance use history, context of first substance use, and polysubstance use. In addition, this appears to be the first study to overcome the lack of Native American professionals by employing and training lay community members to identify criteria of substance use disorders in survey participants. Employing community members helped foster trust that enabled the revelation of sensitive and often illegal activity. As a result, the investigators were able to recruit participants who likely would not have engaged with traditional researchers.
Methods
The trained Native American lay research assistants recruited community members and administered surveys. They first asked questions regarding the criteria for substance use disorders. Individuals who were determined to have met criteria for a substance use disorder in the past were classified as cases (n = 38) and those who never met such criteria were classified as controls (n = 42). They then asked demographic, substance use, and polysubstance use questions. Lastly, eight cases and eight controls were randomly selected for a second interview by a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LDAC) who conducted a blinded assessment regarding the presence or absence of a history of a substance use disorder.
Results
Both groups reported a relatively young age of first substance use (age 16 years for cases and age 15 years for controls). Alcohol was the first substance most commonly used in both groups. Controls reported first benzodiazepine use at a younger age than cases but no other significant differences were found. Both groups reported first obtaining their first drug from family, friends, or at home (rather than a party, bar, or store). Most commonly, the location of their first use of drugs occurred at a friend’s home, a party, a bar, or school rather than at their own home. Cases were marginally more likely to report that their first drug use occurred with a friend rather than with a family member when compared with controls. The majority of both groups reported that their first drug use occurred with other Native Americans rather than with non-Native Americans. Polysubstance use was common in both groups (43–45%). There were no significant differences between the groups regarding polysubstance use. The LDAC arrived at the same determination as the trained research assistants on all eight cases and eight controls.
Background
Addiction is a significant problem among many Native American groups but has rarely been examined in urban populations. In particular, little is known about the context in which urban Native Americans first use substances. This study compares cases (people with a history of addiction) to controls (people without a history of addiction) on demographics, substance use history, context of first substance use, and polysubstance use. In addition, this appears to be the first study to overcome the lack of Native American professionals by employing and training lay community members to identify criteria of substance use disorders in survey participants. Employing community members helped foster trust that enabled the revelation of sensitive and often illegal activity. As a result, the investigators were able to recruit participants who likely would not have engaged with traditional researchers.
Methods
The trained Native American lay research assistants recruited community members and administered surveys. They first asked questions regarding the criteria for substance use disorders. Individuals who were determined to have met criteria for a substance use disorder in the past were classified as cases (n = 38) and those who never met such criteria were classified as controls (n = 42). They then asked demographic, substance use, and polysubstance use questions. Lastly, eight cases and eight controls were randomly selected for a second interview by a licensed drug and alcohol counselor (LDAC) who conducted a blinded assessment regarding the presence or absence of a history of a substance use disorder.
Results
Both groups reported a relatively young age of first substance use (age 16 years for cases and age 15 years for controls). Alcohol was the first substance most commonly used in both groups. Controls reported first benzodiazepine use at a younger age than cases but no other significant differences were found. Both groups reported first obtaining their first drug from family, friends, or at home (rather than a party, bar, or store). Most commonly, the location of their first use of drugs occurred at a friend’s home, a party, a bar, or school rather than at their own home. Cases were marginally more likely to report that their first drug use occurred with a friend rather than with a family member when compared with controls. The majority of both groups reported that their first drug use occurred with other Native Americans rather than with non-Native Americans. Polysubstance use was common in both groups (43–45%). There were no significant differences between the groups regarding polysubstance use. The LDAC arrived at the same determination as the trained research assistants on all eight cases and eight controls.The effect of polypharmacy on rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis treatment: retrospective studyhttps://peerj.com/articles/164182023-11-222023-11-22Mete KaraGülay AlpSeher Palanbek YavaşAnıl TaşdemirSertaç KetenciMüge Mercan KaraErkan Ozduran
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are chronic, progressive inflammatory diseases that can be accompanied by other diseases. In recent years, with the increase in the lifespan of individuals, the concept of polypharmacy has become more prominent. We aimed to show the prevalence of polypharmacy and the effects of polypharmacy on disease activity in RA and PsA.
Methods
This study included PsA patients who had peripheral joint involvement and, RA patients. Since PsA has a heterogeneous clinical picture, only patients with peripheral joint involvement were included in the study and patients with inflammatory low back pain or radiological sacroiliitis or spondylitis, dactylitis or enthesitis were not included in the study due to homogeneity concerns. The numbers of medications used by the patients at the onset of their treatment and at sixth months into their treatment were recorded. Polypharmacy was accepted as the simultaneous use of at least five medications by the person. The Disease Activity Score 28 joints C-Reactive Protein (DAS-28 CRP) was used to assess disease activity for both disease. The modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores of the patients were calculated based on their chronic diseases.
Results
The sample of the study included 232 RA and 73 PsA patients. Polypharmacy was present at the treatment onset in 115 (49.6%) of the RA patients and 28 (38.4%) of the PsA patients. At the sixth month of treatment, polypharmacy was present in the sixth month of the treatment in 217 (93.5%) RA and 61 (83.6%) PsA patients. The mean ages of the RA and PsA patients who were receiving polypharmacy treatment at the beginning were significantly older than the mean ages of those who were not receiving polypharmacy treatment. In both the RA and PSA groups, the patients with polypharmacy at the beginning had statistically significantly higher DAS-28 CRP scores at six months of treatment than those without polypharmacy at the beginning (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Polypharmacy was present both at the time of diagnosis and in the treatment process in the RA and PsA patients, and the presence of polypharmacy at the beginning of the treatment was among the factors that affected the treatment of these patients by significantly affecting their 6th-month DAS-28 CRP values.
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are chronic, progressive inflammatory diseases that can be accompanied by other diseases. In recent years, with the increase in the lifespan of individuals, the concept of polypharmacy has become more prominent. We aimed to show the prevalence of polypharmacy and the effects of polypharmacy on disease activity in RA and PsA.
Methods
This study included PsA patients who had peripheral joint involvement and, RA patients. Since PsA has a heterogeneous clinical picture, only patients with peripheral joint involvement were included in the study and patients with inflammatory low back pain or radiological sacroiliitis or spondylitis, dactylitis or enthesitis were not included in the study due to homogeneity concerns. The numbers of medications used by the patients at the onset of their treatment and at sixth months into their treatment were recorded. Polypharmacy was accepted as the simultaneous use of at least five medications by the person. The Disease Activity Score 28 joints C-Reactive Protein (DAS-28 CRP) was used to assess disease activity for both disease. The modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores of the patients were calculated based on their chronic diseases.
Results
The sample of the study included 232 RA and 73 PsA patients. Polypharmacy was present at the treatment onset in 115 (49.6%) of the RA patients and 28 (38.4%) of the PsA patients. At the sixth month of treatment, polypharmacy was present in the sixth month of the treatment in 217 (93.5%) RA and 61 (83.6%) PsA patients. The mean ages of the RA and PsA patients who were receiving polypharmacy treatment at the beginning were significantly older than the mean ages of those who were not receiving polypharmacy treatment. In both the RA and PSA groups, the patients with polypharmacy at the beginning had statistically significantly higher DAS-28 CRP scores at six months of treatment than those without polypharmacy at the beginning (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Polypharmacy was present both at the time of diagnosis and in the treatment process in the RA and PsA patients, and the presence of polypharmacy at the beginning of the treatment was among the factors that affected the treatment of these patients by significantly affecting their 6th-month DAS-28 CRP values.In-silico study of antisense oligonucleotide antibioticshttps://peerj.com/articles/163432023-11-152023-11-15Erica S. ChenEric S. Ho
Background
The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria directly contributes to a wave of untreatable infections. The lack of new drug development is an important driver of this crisis. Most antibiotics today are small molecules that block vital processes in bacteria. To optimize such effects, the three-dimensional structure of targeted bacterial proteins is imperative, although such a task is time-consuming and tedious, impeding the development of antibiotics. The development of RNA-based therapeutics has catalyzed a new platform of antibiotics—antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). These molecules hybridize with their target mRNAs with high specificity, knocking down or interfering with protein translation. This study aims to develop a bioinformatics pipeline to identify potent ASO targets in essential bacterial genes.
Methods
Three bacterial species (P. gingivalis, H. influenzae, and S. aureus) were used to demonstrate the utility of the pipeline. Open reading frames of bacterial essential genes were downloaded from the Database of Essential Genes (DEG). After filtering for specificity and accessibility, ASO candidates were ranked based on their self-hybridization score, predicted melting temperature, and the position on the gene in an operon. Enrichment analysis was conducted on genes associated with putative potent ASOs.
Results
A total of 45,628 ASOs were generated from 348 unique essential genes in P. gingivalis. A total of 1,117 of them were considered putative. A total of 27,273 ASOs were generated from 191 unique essential genes in H. influenzae. A total of 847 of them were considered putative. A total of 175,606 ASOs were generated from 346 essential genes in S. aureus. A total of 7,061 of them were considered putative. Critical biological processes associated with these genes include translation, regulation of cell shape, cell division, and peptidoglycan biosynthetic process. Putative ASO targets generated for each bacterial species are publicly available here: https://github.com/EricSHo/AOA. The results demonstrate that our bioinformatics pipeline is useful in identifying unique and accessible ASO targets in bacterial species that post major public health issues.
Background
The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria directly contributes to a wave of untreatable infections. The lack of new drug development is an important driver of this crisis. Most antibiotics today are small molecules that block vital processes in bacteria. To optimize such effects, the three-dimensional structure of targeted bacterial proteins is imperative, although such a task is time-consuming and tedious, impeding the development of antibiotics. The development of RNA-based therapeutics has catalyzed a new platform of antibiotics—antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). These molecules hybridize with their target mRNAs with high specificity, knocking down or interfering with protein translation. This study aims to develop a bioinformatics pipeline to identify potent ASO targets in essential bacterial genes.
Methods
Three bacterial species (P. gingivalis, H. influenzae, and S. aureus) were used to demonstrate the utility of the pipeline. Open reading frames of bacterial essential genes were downloaded from the Database of Essential Genes (DEG). After filtering for specificity and accessibility, ASO candidates were ranked based on their self-hybridization score, predicted melting temperature, and the position on the gene in an operon. Enrichment analysis was conducted on genes associated with putative potent ASOs.
Results
A total of 45,628 ASOs were generated from 348 unique essential genes in P. gingivalis. A total of 1,117 of them were considered putative. A total of 27,273 ASOs were generated from 191 unique essential genes in H. influenzae. A total of 847 of them were considered putative. A total of 175,606 ASOs were generated from 346 essential genes in S. aureus. A total of 7,061 of them were considered putative. Critical biological processes associated with these genes include translation, regulation of cell shape, cell division, and peptidoglycan biosynthetic process. Putative ASO targets generated for each bacterial species are publicly available here: https://github.com/EricSHo/AOA. The results demonstrate that our bioinformatics pipeline is useful in identifying unique and accessible ASO targets in bacterial species that post major public health issues.