Author response for "Optimization of a cervical cancer screening model based on self-sampling for human papillomavirus testing"

2025-06-19

Immigrant Age at Arrival and the Intergenerational Transmission of Ethnic Identification Among Mexican Americans

SSRN Electronic Journal · 2025-01-01

Mini-ghrelins: Functional Characterization of N-terminal Peptides Derived From Ghrelin Proteolysis in Male Samples

Endocrinology · 2025-06-04 · 3 citations

Some evidence suggests that ghrelin in plasma undergoes proteolytic processing, leading to the generation of shorter peptides containing the bioactive N-terminal end of this peptide hormone. However, the chemical nature and bioactivity of these shorter versions of ghrelin (termed mini-ghrelins) remain to be clearly defined. Mini-ghrelins generated in plasma were analyzed using mass spectrometry. The binding to and action on the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR) of mini-ghrelins were assessed in vitro in a heterologous expression system using fluorescent imaging and electrophysiology, as well as in vivo in male mice through binding studies, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral assessments. We present the first characterization of peptides derived from ghrelin proteolysis in human, rat, and mouse plasma. We found that the shortest mini-ghrelin in humans and rats is ghrelin(1-11). In vitro, ghrelin(1-11) binds to GHSR, activates it with similar potency to ghrelin, and inhibits further ghrelin binding. In mice, ghrelin(1-11) binds to GHSR in orexigenic neurons of the arcuate nucleus but does not induce detectable changes in food intake or in the levels of the neuronal activation marker c-Fos in the hypothalamus. Instead, it prevents binding of fluorescent ghrelin and blocks its orexigenic effects. Ghrelin(1-14), the shortest mini-ghrelin detected in mice, exhibits similar properties to ghrelin(1-11) both in vitro and in vivo. We propose that ghrelin proteolysis in plasma-and the resulting generation of mini-ghrelins-is not merely a mechanism to reduce plasma ghrelin concentration but also a process that diminishes ghrelin's action by blocking its effects.

Immigrant Age at Arrival and the Intergenerational Transmission of Ethnic Identification among Mexican Americans

AEA Papers and Proceedings · 2025-05-01

Analyzing microdata from the 2000 US census and the 2001-2019 American Community Surveys, we show that the age at arrival of Mexican immigrants exerts an important influence on ethnic identification not only for these immigrants but also for their US-born children. Among Mexican immigrants who arrived as children, the rate of “ethnic attrition”--or not self-identifying as Hispanic--is higher for those who migrated at a younger age. Moreover, the children of these immigrants exhibit a similar pattern: greater ethnic attrition among children whose parents moved to the United States at a younger age. Intermarriage is a key mechanism.

Author response for "Optimization of a cervical cancer screening model based on self-sampling for human papillomavirus testing"

2025-08-11

Optimisation of a Cervical Cancer Screening Model Based on Self-Sampling for Human Papillomavirus Testing

Cancer Control · 2025-11-01

IntroductionCervical cancer remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally, despite the availability of effective prevention tools. The use of self-sampling devices for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing is a promising strategy to increase screening participation, particularly in settings dominated by opportunistic models. Understanding women's preferences regarding invitation methods and device design is essential to ensure effective and equitable programme implementation. This study explored the expectations, preferences, and perceived barriers of women aged 35 to 65 in the Valencian Community (VC), Spain, in anticipation of launching a population-based cervical screening program.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted using four face-to-face focus groups involving 29 women, selected from the target population of the screening programme (healthy women aged 35-65 residing in the VC). The session combined an individual assessment (questionnaire and electronic response system of five self-sampling devices) with a structured group discussion. Preferences regarding invitation channels, test communication, and device usability were analyzed through descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis.ResultsSelf-sampling was highly accepted, with 96.4% of women stating they would perform it at home. Preferred channels for both invitations and results were SMS and local health centers. Simplicity and ease of use were the key features of the device accepted by the largest number of women-FLOQSwab. Evalyn Brush was also positively valued for its attractive design and was the preferred option for some women. Participants expressed concerns about reliability and proper use, particularly among older women or those with limited body awareness. Familiarity with colorectal screening supported acceptance. Importantly, device selection emerged as a key factor in facilitating participation. The integration of digital technologies (SMS, health apps) was positively valued as a means of increasing accessibility, improving communication, and supporting equity in outreach efforts.ConclusionSelf-sampling is a feasible and widely accepted strategy for cervical cancer screening. Effective implementation requires validated devices, culturally adapted information campaigns, and digital engagement tools to maximize participation and reduce inequalities.

Implantación del cribado poblacional de cáncer de cérvix con autotoma. Estudio piloto en la Comunidad Valenciana

Gaceta Sanitaria · 2025-01-01

Evaluar los procesos y resultados de un estudio piloto diseñado para la implementación del Programa de Prevención de Cáncer de Cérvix Poblacional de la Comunidad Valenciana, basado en la determinación del virus del papiloma humano (VPH), mediante autotoma, realizado entre noviembre de 2022 y junio de 2023. Estudio piloto, con invitación a 4293 mujeres de entre 35 y 65 años, mediante envío directo de kit para autotoma (FlowSWAB®, Copan). Para incentivar la participación se enviaron SMS recordatorios, que además contenían una encuesta sobre los motivos para no participar. Se contactó telefónicamente con aquellas mujeres con error en la dirección. Fueron excluidas del estudio aquellas en las que se detectó en la encuesta de no participación o en el seguimiento algún motivo de exclusión, siendo finalmente 4170 las mujeres incluidas en el estudio. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo y por tasas sobre participación y patología, y de los indicadores de proceso y resultado. La prevalencia global del VPH fue de 7,01% (2,0% genotipo 16 y 5,17% otros genotipos). Las colposcopias detectaron 9 CIN1 (0,42%), 3 CIN2 + (0,16%) y 2 adenocarcinomas (0,11%). La mayor proporción de patología detectada fue por el genotipo 16. La participación fue del 45,49%, más baja en los grupos de menor edad, origen extranjero, que trabajan, con alguna enfermedad crónica, con ausencia de unidad residencial y con menor nivel de renta, encontrando diferencias estadísticamente significativas. El envío de SMS aumentó la participación en un 10,84% con el primer SMS, y su efecto fue mayor en las mujeres de 55-65 años. La causa más frecuente de no participación fue la falta de información (13,3%). El contacto de un profesional sanitario con las mujeres con dirección errónea mejoró la participación (71,42% de participantes). Los resultados del estudio confirman el correcto funcionamiento de los circuitos, respaldando la viabilidad del modelo piloto, aunque con una participación menor que la esperada. No obstante, se identificaron deficiencias clave, como dificultad para acceder a la población elegible, procesos ineficientes y complejidad en la gestión de los datos. La implementación de un sistema de información interoperable podría optimizar estos aspectos. Para mejorar la participación es fundamental fortalecer la sensibilización sobre el programa y las técnicas de cribado. Estrategias como los SMS recordatorios y el contacto directo con profesionales sanitarios han demostrado ser eficaces. To evaluate the processes and outcomes of a pilot study designed for the implementation of the Population-Based Cervical Cancer Prevention Program in the Valencian Community, based on human papillomavirus (HPV) detection through self-sampling, conducted between November 2022 and June 2023. A pilot study was conducted, inviting 4293 women aged 35–65 years through direct mailing of self-sampling kits (FlowSWAB®, Copan). To encourage participation, reminder SMS messages were sent, including a survey on reasons for non-participation. Women with incorrect addresses were contacted by phone. Exclusion criteria identified through the survey or follow-up led to the exclusion of some participants, resulting in a final sample of 4170 women. A descriptive and rate-based analysis was conducted on participation and pathology, assessing process and outcome indicators. The overall prevalence of HPV was 7.01% (2.0% for genotype 16 and 5.17% for other genotypes). Colposcopies detected 9 cases of CIN1 (0.42%), 3 cases of CIN2 + (0.16%), and 2 adenocarcinomas (0.11%). The highest proportion of detected pathology was associated with genotype 16. Participation was 45.49%, lower among younger age groups, foreign-born individuals, employed women, those with chronic diseases, those without a residential unit, and those with lower income levels, with statistically significant differences observed. SMS reminders increased participation by 10.84% after the first SMS, with a greater effect among women aged 55–65 years. The most common reason for non-participation was lack of information (13.3%). Contacting a healthcare professional significantly improved participation among women with incorrect addresses (71.42% participation rate). The study results confirm the proper functioning of screening procedures, supporting the feasibility of the pilot model, although participation was lower than expected. Key deficiencies were identified, including challenges in reaching the eligible population, inefficient processes, and data management complexities. Implementing an interoperable information system could optimize these aspects. To improve participation, raising awareness of the program and screening techniques is crucial. Strategies such as reminder SMS messages and direct contact with healthcare professionals have proven effective.

Determinación de la densidad longitudonal en tallos de guadua angustifolia provenientes de los Llanos venezolanos

Ecodiseño & Sostenibilidad · 2024-01-01

A través de la historia se han buscado alternativas de materiales de construcción que sean de bajo costo, fácil uso, resistentes y amigables con la naturaleza. Es por ello, que la utilización de materiales de bajo costo y ambientalmente sostenibles es una necesidad palpable en la actualidad, donde cada día los recursos son más limitados. En este sentido, la Guadua angustifolia Kunth ha venido adquiriendo cierto grado de reconocimiento por sus características de crecimiento rápido y ecológico y por su alta relación de peso y resistencia. En relación con el Desarrollo Sostenible, existe un interés renovado en su uso para las construcciones modernas. Incluir la guadua dentro de la solución técnica como elemento constructivo alternativo, le aporta un carácter de responsabilidad social y ambiental a la solución, porque este recurso beneficia el contexto rural y el desarrollo ambiental del recurso forestal. Venezuela como país tropical presentan condiciones de clima y suelo que favorecen el desarrollo de un amplio número de especies que conforman la familia de las Bambusaceae, siendo la misma una de las especies de fácil desarrollo y crecimiento. El objetivo del presente estudio consistió en determinar las propiedades físicas de densidad (en condición de humedad verde, seca al aire y seca al horno) y peso específico básico, de la especie Guadua angustifolia Kunth, proveniente de los llanos occidentales venezolanos. Los resultados obtenidos permiten inferir que los tallos de esta gramínea podrían ser utilizados en una diversidad de usos como elemento constructivo alternativo amigable con el ambiente.

Optimisation of a cervical cancer screening model based on self-sampling for human papillomavirus testing

medRxiv · 2024-10-17

Abstract The use of self-sampling devices in population-based cervical cancer screening programmes (CCSP) is both an opportunity and a challenge in terms of implementation. Objective To understand the expectations, preferences, and difficulties perceived by women as regards different screening models and self-sampling devices, with the aim of identifying strategies to achieve high CCSP participation rates. Methods This study is based on qualitative research techniques, consisting of an individual interview using a questionnaire with semi-structured questions, followed by a group interview. Sessions were held simultaneously with 4 groups (7-8 women aged between 35 and 65). Women assessed various aspects of the programme (information dissemination, invitation, receipt of results, etc.) and five self-sampling devices. Results If screening were carried out via self-sampling, 96.4% of women said they would take the test. Most women preferred to receive information on the CCSP or return their samples at their health centres (86.2% and 86.2%), and the most popular method for receiving both the programme invitation and results is by SMS (58.6%, 65.5%). Simplicity and ease of use are the key features of the device accepted by the largest number of women, the FLOQSwab. Another highly rated feature is the attractive design of the Evalyn Brush, as this was the preferred device of the largest number of women. The existence of other screening programmes that use self-sampling devices (the colorectal cancer prevention programme) is an opportunity as regards acceptance of this new programme. Some women are unsure of how to use the devices correctly. A large number of women accept self-sampling and reveals significant differences in the degree of acceptance of different self-sampling devices. Selecting the most accepted device is key to achieving high CCSP participation rates, and these programmes should be accompanied by adapted information campaigns to reach the most vulnerable groups and ensure equity.

Hispanic Americans in the Labor Market: Patterns over Time and across Generations

The Journal of Economic Perspectives · 2023-02-01 · 16 citations

This article reviews evidence on the labor market performance of Hispanics in the United States, with a particular focus on the US-born segment of this population. After discussing critical issues that arise in the US data sources commonly used to study Hispanics, we document how Hispanics currently compare with other Americans in terms of education, earnings, and labor supply, and then we discuss long-term trends in these outcomes. Relative to non-Hispanic Whites, US-born Hispanics from most national origin groups possess sizeable deficits in earnings, which in large part reflect corresponding educational deficits. Over time, rates of high school completion by US-born Hispanics have almost converged to those of non-Hispanic Whites, but the large Hispanic deficits in college completion have instead widened. Finally, from the perspective of immigrant generations, Hispanics experience substantial improvements in education and earnings between first-generation immigrants and the second-generation consisting of the US-born children of immigrants. Continued progress beyond the second generation is obscured by measurement issues arising from high rates of Hispanic intermarriage and the fact that later-generation descendants of Hispanic immigrants often do not self-identify as Hispanic when they come from families with mixed ethnic origins.