bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abnormal breathing pattern features in chronic refractory cough
Authors: Jeffery Jordan , Vertigan Anne E. , Bone Sarah , Gibson Peter G.
Published: July 2024

Background

Chronic refractory cough (CRC) is a challenging condition that responds to speech pathology intervention. Clinical observation suggests abnormal breathing patterns occur in CRC and may be indirectly addressed as part of behavioural treatment, yet breathing pattern changes in CRC are poorly understood. The aims of this study were to 1) describe breathing patterns in patients with CRC, 2) compare breathing pattern features between patients with CRC and inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO), and 3) estimate the effect of breathing pattern features on clinical measures of laryngeal sensory and motor dysfunction.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional observational study included 634 patients with CRC or ILO. A file audit of speech pathology assessment data was undertaken. Analysis of self-reported laryngeal symptoms (viaquestionnaires) and clinical assessment of voice and breathing of those with CRC and ILO was conducted.

Results

Most participants with CRC (73%) demonstrated at least one abnormal breathing pattern feature. The most common feature was thoracic breathing (69%) followed by oral breathing (33%). The type and prevalence of abnormal breathing patterns were similar between CRC and ILO. Abnormal breathing patterns were associated with reduced maximum phonation time (MPT); however, there was no association between these features and Newcastle Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire scores.

Conclusions

Abnormal breathing features are common in patients with CRC and are not significantly different from those occurring in ILO. There is some association between abnormal breathing features and MPT, suggesting impairment of laryngeal motor function. Conversely, there is no association between abnormal breathing features and laryngeal hypersensitivity.
Severe COVID-19 multisystem inflammatory syndrome versus severe dengue in children from Indonesia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alam Anggraini , Andriyani Fina Meilyana , Peryoga Stanza Uga
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Severe multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and severe dengue are challenging to identify during the COVID-19 pandemic in dengue-endemic areas. Fever, multiorgan involvement, and shock characterize both severe MIS-C and severe dengue. Distinguishing between the two diseases is beneficial in initiating proper management.

Methods

Medical records of children < 18 years old who were hospitalized at Hasan Sadikin General Hospital’s PICU between December 2020 and July 2022 with severe MIS-C or severe dengue were recorded. Differences were assessed using comparative and descriptive analyses.

Results

Seventeen severe dengue patients and 4 severe MIS-C were included. The average age of severe MIS-C was 11.5 years (SD ± 2.9, 95% CI), and that of severe dengue patients was 6.2 years (SD ± 4.4, 95% CI) (p value = 0.034, 95%). Fever and abdominal pain were the most common symptoms in both groups (p = 0.471, 95% CI). Rash (p = 0.049) and nonpurulent conjunctivitis (p = 0.035) were two symptoms with significant differences. The highest platelet count (p-value = 0.006, 95% CI), AST (p-value = 0.026, 95% CI), and D-dimer level (p-value = 0.025, 95% CI) were significantly different between the two cohorts. Cardiac abnormalities were found in all (100%) severe MIS-C patients, but only one (5.9%) in severe dengue patients.

Conclusion

Age, rash, nonpurulent conjunctivitis, platelet count, AST and D-dimer level may distinguish severe MIS-C from severe dengue fever.
Expression genome-wide association study identifies key regulatory variants enriched with metabolic and immune functions in four porcine tissues
Authors: Farhangi Samin , Gòdia Marta , Derks Martijn F.L. , Harlizius Barbara , Dibbits Bert , González-Prendes Rayner , Crooijmans Richard P.M.A. , Madsen Ole , Groenen Martien A.M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Integration of high throughput DNA genotyping and RNA-sequencing data enables the discovery of genomic regions that regulate gene expression, known as expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL). In pigs, efforts to date have been mainly focused on purebred lines for traits with commercial relevance as such growth and meat quality. However, little is known on genetic variants and mechanisms associated with the robustness of an animal, thus its overall health status. Here, the liver, lung, spleen, and muscle transcriptomes of 100 three-way crossbred female finishers were studied, with the aim of identifying novel eQTL regulatory regions and transcription factors (TFs) associated with regulation of porcine metabolism and health-related traits.

Results

An expression genome-wide association study with 535,896 genotypes and the expression of 12,680 genes in liver, 13,310 genes in lung, 12,650 genes in spleen, and 12,595 genes in muscle resulted in 4,293, 10,630, 4,533, and 6,871 eQTL regions for each of these tissues, respectively. Although only a small fraction of the eQTLs were annotated as cis-eQTLs, these presented a higher number of polymorphisms per region and significantly stronger associations with their target gene compared to trans-eQTLs. Between 20 and 115 eQTL hotspots were identified across the four tissues. Interestingly, these were all enriched for immune-related biological processes. In spleen, two TFs were identified: ERF and ZNF45, with key roles in regulation of gene expression.

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive analysis with more than 26,000 eQTL regions identified that are now publicly available. The genomic regions and their variants were mostly associated with tissue-specific regulatory roles. However, some shared regions provide new insights into the complex regulation of genes and their interactions that are involved with important traits related to metabolism and immunity.
Incompatibility of the short-acting benzodiazepine remimazolam with common perioperative medication
Authors: Hofmann Pascal , Bachmann Lena , Brümmer Pia , Drexler Berthold
Published: July 2024

Background

Remimazolam is a relatively new benzodiazepine with growing use in procedural sedation and general anaesthesia. Initiated by case reports, the physical incompatibility of remimazolam with ringer’s acetated and ringer’s lactated solution has been reported. More recently, remifentanil, fentanyl, rocuronium, vecuronium, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam, have been investigated and suggested safe for coadministration with remimazolam. Apart from case reports, incompatibility for other frequently used drugs remains unknown.

Methods

Sixty-five drugs and intravenous fluids were tested for possible precipitation with remimazolam in a simulated y-site administration. Equal volumes of the test drug were injected into the remimazolam solution, examined and photo documented at 1, 15, 30 and 60 min after mixture. Examination was taken by two independent investigators. pH was measured before, and 60 min after mixing the drugs.

Results

Seventeen (26.15%) drugs or fluids showed precipitation, 47 (72.31%) did not show any sign of interaction. Propofol could not be assessed, because of the turbidity of the substance itself. Precipitation occurred immediately and remained stable in all timestamps. The incompatible drug-remimazolam-mixtures had a median pH of 7.15 (6.67, 8.01), the non-precipitating mixtures a median pH of 4.75 (3.8, 5.6). The pH-values of both groups were significantly different (Mann-Whitney-U-test; p < .00001). There is an increasing risk for precipitation with more basic baseline pH-levels of the tested drug. No interaction was seen in baseline pH below 5.

Conclusions

Remimazolam (Byfavo®) is incompatible with ampicillin/ sulbactam, calcium gluconate, clindamycin, dexamethasone, dimenhydrinate, an 148mval/l electrolyte - glucose 1% solution (E148G1®), furosemide, a 4% gelatine volume expander (gelafundin®), heparin sodium, insulin, meropenem, sodium bicarbonate 8.4%, prednisolone, the crystalloid infusions jonosteril® and sterofundin®, thiopental and tranexamic acid. The results strongly affirm remimazolam’s safety requirements: A separate line for remimazolam and an approved compatible baseline infusion is mandatory and an alternative way to administer bolus medication is required.
The potential presence of infection may be indicated through non-invasive prediction of procalcitonin and C-reactive protein levels within the initial three days after cervical cerclage: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: Fan Xiucong , Ma Yabin , Zhu Yunxia , Tang Weijun , Dong Xiaohui , Liu Ming
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To identify which non-invasive infection indicators could better predict post-cervical cerclage (CC) infections, and on which days after CC infection indicators should be closely monitored.

Methods

The retrospective, single-center study included 619 single-pregnancy patients from January 2021 to December 2022. Patients were categorized into infected and uninfected groups based on physicians’ judgments of post-CC infections. Registered information included patient characteristics, cervical insufficiency history, gestational age at CC, surgical method (McDonald/Shirodkar), purpose of CC, mid-pregnancy miscarriage/preterm birth, infection history or risk factors, and infection indices on days 1, 3, 5, and 7 after CC. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to reduce patient characteristic bias. Statistical analysis of C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil count (NEU), percentage of neutrophil count (NEU_P), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and procalcitonin (PCT) in the infected group compared with the uninfected group was performed using chi-square tests and t-tests. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to further assess the diagnostic value of CRP, PCT, and CRP-PCT in combination.

Results

Among the 619 included patients, 206 patients were matched using PSM and subsequently assessed. PCT values on day 1 and day 3 after CC exhibited significant differences between the two groups in two statistical ways (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). The CRP levels on day 1 were significantly higher in the infected group compared to the uninfected group in two statistical ways (P < 0.05). On day 3, the mean CRP value was significantly elevated in the infected group compared to the uninfected group (P < 0.05). Analyses of IL-6, WBC, NEU, and NEU_P did not yield clinically significant results. The area under the ROC curves for CRP, PCT, and CRP-PCT on day 1 and day 3 were all below 0.7. In the preventive CC group, the AUC values of CRP and CRP-PCT obtained on d1 were found to be higher than 0.7, indicating moderate diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusion

For women after CC surgery, especially of preventive aim, increased serum CRP and PCT levels from post-CC day 1 to day 3 may signal a potential postoperative infection, warranting close monitoring.
Removal efficiency of a fast setting pozzalan-based bioactive cement: a micro CT study
Authors: Çetinkaya Feyza , Çıkman Ahter Şanal , Keleş Ali , Arıcıoğlu Banu
Published: July 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the removal efficiency of PRMTA and ECMPremixed applied to the coronal third according to the RET by UI and to examine the effect of different solutions on material removal.

Materials and methods

40 permanent upper central teeth were used to simulate immature teeth. The samples were irrigated with 1.5% NaOCl and calcium hydroxide was placed. Samples were incubated in PBS. Then irrigation was done with 17% EDTA, the samples were randomly divided into 2 groups (n = 20):Group 1: PRMTA, Group 2: ECM Premixed. The materials were placed in the samples. Then the samples were scanned with micro-CT. Materials were removed by UI. Micro-CT scan of the samples was performed. Each material group was divided into 2 subgroups (n = 10): Group1 was MTAD, group2 was irrigated with 10% CA; then micro-CT was performed. Obtained images were positioned in DataViewer and analyzed with CTAn. The obtained data were statistically analyzed in IBM SPSS 25. The significance level was determined as 5%.

Results

There was no significant difference between the initial volumes of the materials (p > 0.05). The amount of the remaining material after UI was significantly higher in the PRMTA (0.7471%) group compared to the ECM Premixed (0.0093%). There was no significant difference in terms of remaining material after irrigation with MTAD and CA in both groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

A great deal of the materials were removed by UI under the operation microscope. ECM Premixed was removed more effectively compared to the PRMTA. And, acidic solutions did not provide any additional benefit in material removal.
The implementation and impacts of the Comprehensive Care Standard in Australian acute care hospitals: a survey study
Authors: Xiong Beibei , Stirling Christine , Bailey Daniel X. , Martin-Khan Melinda
Published: July 2024

Background

Comprehensive care (CC) is becoming a widely acknowledged standard for modern healthcare as it has the potential to improve health service delivery impacting both patient-centred care and clinical outcomes. In 2019, the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care mandated the implementation of the Comprehensive Care Standard (CCS). However, little is known about the implementation and impacts of the CCS in acute care hospitals. Our study aimed to explore care professionals’ self-reported knowledge, experiences, and perceptions about the implementation and impacts of the CCS in Australian acute care hospitals.

Methods

An online survey using a cross-sectional design that included Australian doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals in acute care hospitals was distributed through our research team and organisation, healthcare organisations, and clinical networks using various methods, including websites, newsletters, emails, and social media platforms. The survey items covered self-reported knowledge of the CCS and confidence in performing CC, experiences in consumer involvement and CC plans, and perceptions of organisational support and impacts of CCS on patient care and health outcomes. Quantitative data were analysed using Rstudio, and qualitative data were analysed thematically using Nvivo.

Results

864 responses were received and 649 were deemed valid responses. On average, care professionals self-reported a moderate level of knowledge of the CCS (median = 3/5) and a high level of confidence in performing CC (median = 4/5), but they self-reported receiving only a moderate level of organisational support (median = 3/5). Only 4% (n = 17) of respondents believed that all patients in their unit had CCS-compliant care plans, which was attributed to lack of knowledge, motivation, teamwork, and resources, documentation issues, system and process limitations, and environment-specific challenges. Most participants believed the CCS introduction improved many aspects of patient care and health outcomes, but also raised healthcare costs.

Conclusion

Care professionals are confident in performing CC but need more organisational support. Further education and training, resources, multidisciplinary collaboration, and systems and processes that support CC are needed to improve the implementation of the CCS. Perceived increased costs may hinder the sustainability of the CCS. Future research is needed to examine the cost-effectiveness of the implementation of the CCS.
Specialist care visits outside the hospital by South Australian older adults
Authors: Asante Dennis , Agyemang-Duah Williams , Worley Paul , Essilfie Gloria , Isaac Vivian
Published: July 2024

Background

Limited access to specialist medical services is a major barrier to healthcare in rural areas. We compared rural-urban specialist doctor consultations outside hospital by older adults (≥ 60 years) across South Australia.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were available from the South Australia’s Department of Health. The Modified Monash Model (MM1-7) of remoteness was used to categorize data into rural (MM 3–4), remote (MM5-7), and urban (MM1-MM2) of participants in urban and non-urban South Australia. The analysis was conducted on older adults (n = 20,522), self-reporting chronic physical and common mental health conditions.

Results

Specialist doctor consultation in the past 4 weeks was 14.6% in our sample. In multivariable analysis, increasing age (odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2-1.4), higher education (odds ratio 1.5, 95% CI: 1.3-1.9), physical health conditions [diabetes (odds ratio 1.2, 95% CI: 1.1-1.3); cancer (odds ratio1.8, 95% CI: 1.7-2.0); heart disease (odds ratio 1.9, 95% CI: 1.6-2.1)], and common mental disorders [depression (odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1-1.5); anxiety (odds ratio 1.4, 95% CI: 1.1-1.6)] were associated with higher specialist care use. Specialist care use among rural (odds ratio 0.8, 95% CI: 0.6–0.9), and remote (odds ratio 0.8, 95% CI: 0.7–0.9) older people was significantly lower than their urban counterparts after controlling for age, education, and chronic disease.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate a disparity in the use of out of hospital specialist medical services between urban and non-urban areas.
From bench to bedside: the application of cannabidiol in glioma
Authors: Feng Shiying , Pan Yuanming , Lu Pu , Li Na , Zhu Wei , Hao Zhiqiang
Published: July 2024

Glioma is the most common malignant tumor in central nervous system, with significant health burdens to patients. Due to the intrinsic characteristics of glioma and the lack of breakthroughs in treatment modalities, the prognosis for most patients remains poor. This results in a heavy psychological and financial load worldwide. In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has garnered widespread attention and research due to its anti-tumoral, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. This review comprehensively summarizes the preclinical and clinical research on the use of CBD in glioma therapy, as well as the current status of nanomedicine formulations of CBD, and discusses the potential and challenges of CBD in glioma therapy in the future.
Effect of aquatic versus conventional physical therapy program on ankle sprain grade III in elite athletes: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sadaak Maryam M. , AbdElMageed Salwa Fadl , Ibrahim Mona Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Ankle sprains are the second most common sports injury after knee injuries, with about 85% of them affecting the lateral ankle ligaments. These injuries are particularly prevalent in sports like basketball and volleyball.

Purpose

To investigate the effect of Aquatic therapy as an early rehabilitation protocol for elite athletes with acute lateral ankle sprain grade III on back-to-sport time, dynamic balance, pain, Athletic performance, and muscle power compared to land-based exercise training.

Methods

Thirty elite athletes have ankle sprain grade III with sprain onset from 1 to 7 days, their age ranges from 18–30 years old were recruited. All participants are professional athletes; mainly participating in above-head sports such as volleyball and basketball. The patients were randomly allocated into two treatment groups: Group I (control group): 15 patients received a conventional physical therapy program of structured therapeutic exercise program, manual therapy and land-based exercises, in addition to external support, and Group II (Aquatic therapy group): 15 patients received aquatic training. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to measure the pain intensity, while the dynamic balance was measured by the Star Excursion Balance Test. Athletic performance was measured by HOP Tests (Single, Triple, 6-m, and Cross-over hops) aided by the Agility T-Test (ATT) and Illinois Agility Test (IAT). Muscle power was tested by a Single Leg Press. Finally, back to sports time was recorded for each participant in both groups.

Results

There was a significant interaction effect of Aquatic therapy and time for VAS (p < 0.001), single hop (p < 0.001), triple hop (p < 0.001), cross-over hop (p < 0.001), IAT (p = 0.019) and ATT (p < 0.001) of both affected and nonaffected. There was no significant interaction effect of Aquatic therapy and time for 6-MHT of affected (p = 0.923), and nonaffected (p = 0.140). There was a significant main effect of time for all dependent variables (p < 0.001) except for 6-MHT of affected (p = 0.939), nonaffected (p = 0.109), and IAT (p = 0.099). The Star excursion dynamic balance test (SEBT) and Single leg press revealed a significant difference between groups on affected and non-affected sides (p < 0.001*). Lastly and most importantly the back-to-sport time revealed a significant difference in the return-to-sport time in favor of the Aquatic therapy group who returned faster than the control group (p < 0.001*).

Conclusion

Aquatic therapy is more effective than traditional protocols regarding early rehabilitation of acute ankle sprain grade III in Elite professional athletes for reducing pain intensity, improving dynamic balance and athletic performance and power and accelerating their return to sports time. Because aquatic therapy produces better outcomes, it is advised to be included in the rehabilitation programs of athletic patients with acute ankle sprains grade III.
Effect of surgery on oxidative stress and endogenous tocopherol concentrations in juvenile female dogs
Authors: Costa Giovanna Lucrezia , Leonardi Fabio , Licata Patrizia , Tabbì Marco , Iannelli Nicola , Iannelli Diego , Macrì Daniele , Bruno Fabio , Ferrantelli Vincenzo , Nava Vincenzo , Interlandi Claudia , Bruschetta Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Background

Surgery such as ovariectomy causes an inflammatory and oxidative stress. This study was designed to evaluate endogenous tocopherol levels in response to surgical oxidative stress induced by abdominal surgery (ovariectomy) in thirty-two juvenile female dogs. The dogs received meloxicam before surgery (0.2 mg/kg SC) and after surgery (0.1 mg/kg OS every 24 h), 0.03 mg/kg of atropine sulfate (IM), and propofol 4 mg/kg intravenously (IV). General anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. Physiological, hematological and biochemical parameters, malondialdehyde (MDA) and α-, δ-, γ-tocopherols were evaluated at baseline, 36 and 48 h after surgery.

Results

The physiological parameters remained within normal ranges. Blood glucose concentration increased, while the albumin levels decreased after surgery. Rescue analgesia was not required. MDA levels increased above the baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001). The α-, δ-, and γ-tocopherol concentrations decreased from baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Surgery in juvenile female dogs revealed oxidative, increased MDA concentrations, reduced tocopherol levels, and had a clinically insignificant influence on homeostasis.
Development of microsatellite markers for the soft tick Ornithodoros phacochoerus
Authors: Taraveau Florian , Bru David , Quembo Carlos João , Jourdan-Pineau Hélène
Published: July 2024

Background

Soft ticks of the genus Ornithodoros are responsible for the maintenance and transmission of the African swine fever (ASF) virus in the sylvatic and domestic viral cycles in Southern Africa. They are also the main vectors of the Borrelia species causing relapsing fevers. Currently, no genetic markers are available for Afrotropical Ornithodoros ticks. As ASF spreads globally, such markers are needed to assess the role of ticks in the emergence of new outbreaks. The aim of this study is to design microsatellite markers that could be used for ticks of the Ornithodoros moubata complex, particularly Ornithodoros phacochoerus, to assess population structure and tick movements in ASF endemic areas.

Methods

A total of 151 markers were designed using the O. moubata and O. porcinus genomes after elimination of repeated sequences in the genomes. All designed markers were tested on O. phacochoerus and O. porcinus DNA to select the best markers.

Results

A total of 24 microsatellite markers were genotyped on two populations of O. phacochoerus and on individuals from four other Ornithodoros species. Nineteen markers were selected to be as robust as possible for population genetic studies on O. phacochoerus.

Conclusions

The microsatellite markers developed here represent the first genetic tool to study nidicolous populations of O. phacochoerus.

Graphical Abstract
Genetic constraint at single amino acid resolution in protein domains improves missense variant prioritisation and gene discovery
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Theotokis Pantazis I. , Li Nicholas ,   the SHaRe Investigators, Ashley Euan , Colan Steven D. , Day Sharlene M. , Helms Adam , Ho Carolyn Y. , Ingles Jodie , Jacoby Daniel , Lakdawala Neal K. , Michels Michelle , Olivotto Iacopo , Owens Anjali , Parikh Victoria N. , Pereira Alexandre C. , Rossano Joseph , Saberi Sara , Semsarian Chris , Wittekind Samuel , Wright Caroline F. , Samocha Kaitlin E. , Whiffin Nicola , Ware James S.
Published: July 2024

Background

One of the major hurdles in clinical genetics is interpreting the clinical consequences associated with germline missense variants in humans. Recent significant advances have leveraged natural variation observed in large-scale human populations to uncover genes or genomic regions that show a depletion of natural variation, indicative of selection pressure. We refer to this as “genetic constraint”. Although existing genetic constraint metrics have been demonstrated to be successful in prioritising genes or genomic regions associated with diseases, their spatial resolution is limited in distinguishing pathogenic variants from benign variants within genes.

Methods

We aim to identify missense variants that are significantly depleted in the general human population. Given the size of currently available human populations with exome or genome sequencing data, it is not possible to directly detect depletion of individual missense variants, since the average expected number of observations of a variant at most positions is less than one. We instead focus on protein domains, grouping homologous variants with similar functional impacts to examine the depletion of natural variations within these comparable sets. To accomplish this, we develop the Homologous Missense Constraint (HMC) score. We utilise the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) 125 K exome sequencing data and evaluate genetic constraint at quasi amino-acid resolution by combining signals across protein homologues.

Results

We identify one million possible missense variants under strong negative selection within protein domains. Though our approach annotates only protein domains, it nonetheless allows us to assess 22% of the exome confidently. It precisely distinguishes pathogenic variants from benign variants for both early-onset and adult-onset disorders. It outperforms existing constraint metrics and pathogenicity meta-predictors in prioritising de novo mutations from probands with developmental disorders (DD). It is also methodologically independent of these, adding power to predict variant pathogenicity when used in combination. We demonstrate utility for gene discovery by identifying seven genes newly significantly associated with DD that could act through an altered-function mechanism.

Conclusions

Grouping variants of comparable functional impacts is effective in evaluating their genetic constraint. HMC is a novel and accurate predictor of missense consequence for improved variant interpretation.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of bacteria colonizing the external ocular surfaces of patients undergoing ocular surgeries at Bugando Medical Center in Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Rukyaa Johannes , Temba Lillian , Kachira Princekened , Mwanansao Christopher , Seni Jeremiah
Published: July 2024

Objective

Understanding microbiota colonizing ocular surfaces is key to expedite antibiotic prophylactic options for ocular surgeries, and therefore, prevent subsequent surgical site infections (SSIs). To fill this critical gap, we aimed at determining the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteria colonizing the external ocular surfaces of 224 patients undergoing ocular surgeries at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in Mwanza, Tanzania between May and August 2023.

Results

The study participants had a median age of 62.5 (interquartile range: 39.5–75.0) years. A total of 78.1% (175/224) ocular swabs were culture positive yielding 196 bacterial isolates. Staphylococcus epidermidis [43.4% (n = 85)], Staphylococcus aureus [21.9% (n = 43)] and Pseudomonas aeruginosa [14.3% (n = 28)] were the most common bacteria. There were low proportions of resistance among predominant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria to gentamicin (≤ 25.0%), and similarly, low resistance among Gram negative bacteria was observed against 3rd generation cephalosporins (≤ 25.0%) and piperacillin-tazobactam (0.0%). Variable resistance profiles were notable to the most commonly used antibiotics (ciprofloxacin and tetracycline: 0.0–66.7%). Our findings underscore an urgent need to revisit antibiotic prophylactic guidelines for ocular surgeries in this tertiary hospital, and calls for prospective evaluation of incident SSIs post-ocular surgeries to guide specific management.
A powerful adversary model and corresponding OTP time slot allocation scheme in RIS-assisted physical layer key generation
Authors: Chen Liquan , Song Yufan , Ma Wanting , Lu Tianyu , Zhang Peng , Chen Liang
Published: July 2024

Physical layer key generation (PLKG) is a technique of information-theoretic security to tackle the problem of key distribution between resource-constrained legitimate users and is a promising candidate for the one time pad (OTP) technique. However, in quasi-static, the key rate is greatly limited due to low entropy. Reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) is introduced to adaptively reconfigure the radio environment. However, how to allocate time slots in the OTP to counter the increasingly powerful adversary model is an urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, we propose a very powerful adversary model and give an attack strategy called eavesdropping channel search, which allows Eve to use its search and eavesdropping capabilities to maximize the probability of successful attacks. Meanwhile, we propose a time slot allocation algorithm in the OTP to ensure the security of the key. Simulations validate that our proposed attack strategy is more powerful than any existing adversary model and our proposed time slot allocation algorithm does not have any security loss.
Social reintegration of cisgender and transgender women post-incarceration in Brazil: policies and challenges
Authors: Miranda Raquel B. , Goldberg Alejandro , Díaz Bermúdez Ximena Pamela
Published: July 2024

Background

Social reintegration relies on the support given to prisoners not only during their reentry into society but also throughout their imprisonment. Our goal was to analyze the expectations reported by cisgender and transgender women returning to society and of the justice and social welfare professionals from the Brazilian prison system.

Methods

A qualitative analysis using saturation sampling was conducted. The participants were selected through a non-probabilistic sampling technique. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with professionals involved in the management of the prison system and female former inmates. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using an open and focused coding process. Textual data was stored, organized, and coded using Atlas software according to emerging themes.

Results

The study involved 15 professionals and 13 female former inmates, five of them identified as transgender women. Among the professionals, the age range went from 38 to 65 years old; they reported a work history in their respective fields, from 10 to 35 years, with an equal distribution across genders. As for the female former inmates, their ages ranged from 24 to 42 years old, and the most reported crime was drug trafficking. Their incarceration time varied from 1 to 8 years. Female inmates were vulnerable to abuse and violence, including physical, sexual, and emotional violence. Women in situations of prior vulnerability faced additional challenges during their sentences. Transgender women were even more neglected and discriminated against by the system. Despite the professionals being aware and concerned about vulnerabilities and the need to improve the reintegration process, in general, they were not sensitive to the gender perspective. There were no specific policies able to support social integration for this public.

Conclusions

Data showed multifaceted challenges faced by female former inmates within the Brazilian prison system, highlighting the insufficient policies for both cisgender and transgender women. Additionally, the results revealed a lack of sensitivity among professionals regarding gender issues and their particularities in the prison system and social reintegration. These findings emphasize the need for a more comprehensive and intersectional approach that addresses the diverse socio-economic backgrounds of these individuals.
Hepatitis C-related knowledge and attitude among adults on probation in a large US city
Authors: Minturn Matthew S. , Kamis Kevin F. , Wyles David L. , Scott Tracy , Hurley Hermione , Prendergast Scott J. , Rowan Sarah E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality within the US, and disproportionately impacts those involved with the criminal justice system. Despite this, knowledge and attitudes regarding HCV treatment among adults on probation have not been well studied. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adults on probation accessing on-site HCV testing and linkage services at the adult probation department in Denver, Colorado. The survey assessed general knowledge of HCV and HCV treatment, as well as attitudes surrounding HCV treatment that might reflect medical mistrust. We used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with previous HCV testing, previous HCV treatment, and HCV antibody positivity at the time the survey was conducted.

Results

A total of 402 participants completed all or a portion of the survey. 69% of the participants were cis-gender men; 29% were white, 27% were Black, and 30% were Hispanic/Latinx. Fewer than half of participants correctly identified that HCV infection is commonly asymptomatic (46%), that there is currently no vaccine that prevents HCV (19%), and that reinfection after treatment is possible (47%). Very few participants felt that side-effects (9%) or cost of treatment (10%) were barriers to care. Many participants believed that racial disparities exist in the treatment of HCV (59%). The belief that people who use substances are treated inequitably by health care providers was also commonly reported (35% of participants). Self-reported injection drug use and higher HCV-related knowledge were positively associated with previous testing for HCV. Higher HCV-related knowledge was positively associated with HCV antibody positivity at the time of survey completion, though the magnitude of the association was small.

Conclusion

Interventions are needed to increase knowledge of HCV, to improve access to HCV testing and treatment, and to reduce bias associated with HCV and substance use within the probation population.
CuMn2O4 spinel electrodes: effect of the hydrothermal treatment duration on electrochemical performance
Authors: Aouini Souha , Bardaoui Afrah , Ferraria Ana M. , Chtourou Radhouane , Santos Diogo M. F.
Published: July 2024

CuMn2O4 (CMO) thin films are produced using a simple hydrothermal method. The influence of reaction duration on the electrodes’ electrochemical performance is investigated. XRD data shows improved crystal structure after 24-h reaction time, with a crystallite size of 12.17 nm. Distinct vibrational peaks associated with Cu–O and Mn–O are observed in the ATR-FTIR spectra, corroborating the spinel formation after 24 h. XPS analysis shows a compositional shift over time, starting with copper hydroxide at 12 h, evolving into a mix of copper and manganese oxides, hydroxides, and oxyhydroxides by 18 h, and achieving the desired spinel composition by 24 h. Microscopic analysis reveals CMO is arranged as small sheet structures, with 4.95 ± 2.92 µm in length after 24-h reaction. The CMO24h electrode displays a maximum specific capacitance of 1187.50 Fg−1 at a scan rate of 1 mVs−1 in 1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. The electrochemical performance of the synthesized CMO electrodes reveals a high potential for energy storage applications.
Living-donor lobar lung transplantation for pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis complicated by extensive thrombi in central pulmonary arteries
Authors: Date Naoki , Ohsumi Akihiro , Minatoya Kenji , Date Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Background

Pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (PLCH) is a rare disorder characterized by the proliferation of Langerhans cells along the small airways, which causes nodular and cystic changes in the lung parenchyma. Lung transplantation can be a life-saving option for patients with severe respiratory failure or pulmonary hypertension. Herein, we present a case of successful lung transplantation in a patient with PLCH who developed unusually large thrombi in the central pulmonary artery.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old woman with 16-year history of PLCH with rapidly developing respiratory failure was admitted to our hospital for the evaluation of a lung transplant. Enhanced computed tomography revealed large thrombi in dilated central pulmonary arteries. Right heart catheterization revealed severe pulmonary hypertension, with a mean pulmonary artery pressure of 48 mmHg. The thrombi shrank markedly after 3 months of anticoagulation therapy. However, the respiratory status of the patient did not improve. We performed bilateral living-donor lobar lung transplantation with thrombectomy under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for the remaining thrombi in the main pulmonary arteries. The dilated main pulmonary arteries of the recipient required direct plication for size mismatch. The patient survived in good condition for more than 2 years with no recurrence of thrombosis.

Conclusion

Preoperative anticoagulation therapy for massive thrombi in the pulmonary arteries was effective and led to safe lung transplantation.
Formative research to understand food beliefs and practices relating to pregnancy on Kei Besar Island, Eastern Indonesia
Authors: Mogi Jessica Gloria , Premikha M , Nabila Ona , Sanjaya Adhi , Prihartono Indira , Gittelsohn Joel
Published: July 2024

Background

Food-related beliefs and practices during pregnancy may contribute to the high prevalence of chronic energy deficiencies (CED) in Eastern Indonesia, particularly in Southeast Maluku regency, where 21.33% of pregnant women experience CED. Currently, little information on these issues is available. This study investigates food beliefs and practices related to pregnancy on Kei Besar Island in the Maluku province of Eastern Indonesia.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted utilizing in-depth interviews, free lists, and pile sort exercises. Data collection was conducted in January 2023 and involved married pregnant women aged 18 and above (n = 12), community health volunteers (n = 2), and traditional healers (n = 3) from 9 villages in Kei Besar District. All participants must be natives of Kei Besar Island, with community health volunteers and traditional healers being respective figures recommended by the local villagers.

Results

The need to avoid or minimize consumption of certain foods during pregnancy, such as some kinds of fish, chili and spicy food, soda, pineapples, octopus, squid, and ice was reported by more than one-third of all participants. Consumption of prescribed foods, such as cassava leaves, papaya, coconut water, rice during early pregnancies, moringa leaves, bananas, and katok leaves was reported by five or more participants. These food proscriptions and prescriptions were due to concerns about the risks of miscarriage, adverse effects on the fetus and mother, and complications during labor. Participants also reported other practices, such as eating for two during early pregnancy and reducing food intake in late pregnancy. We found that food beliefs have shaped the dietary patterns of most participants. However, they still consumed food recommended by community health volunteers and midwives.

Conclusions

Food beliefs are present and practiced in the Kei Besar community and may impact the nutritional status of women and their infants. Interventions should target training healthcare providers and community health volunteers to provide culturally appropriate health education that incorporates prescribed local ingredients and provides nutritionally adequate substitutes for the proscribed food items.

Trial Registration

Not applicable.
Threshold ring signature: generic construction and logarithmic size instantiation
Authors: Wang Huizhuo , Tao Yang , Zhang Rui
Published: July 2024

A ring signature is a variant of normal digital signature and protects the privacy of a specific signer in the sense that a ring signature can be verified, but the signer’s identity can only be traced to a limited set. The concept was further enhanced to threshold setting to distribute signing ability among several signers. Since threshold ring signature was introduced, it was a hard problem whether one can have efficient constructions for it. In this paper, we introduce a new generic construction of threshold ring signature, named GTRS, based on canonical identification of a specific form. Our signature consists of a polynomial (represented by $$n - t + 1$$

n
-
t
+
1

coefficients) and a single response, resulting in significantly shorter threshold ring signatures. Instantiating the generic construction with specific DL-based components, e.g. Schnorr identification and a novel vector argument of knowledge developed in this paper, we obtain GTRS-EC, which is shorter than all existing threshold ring signatures without any trusted setup.
Increased body mass index (BMI) associated with late epilepsy onset in patients with temporal encephaloceles: a systematic review and analysis of individual patient data
Authors: Tsalouchidou Panagiota-Eleni , Müller Hans-Helge , Mintziras Ioannis , Strehlau Sascha , Hahn Wiebke , Belke Marcus , Zahnert Felix , Kräling Gunter , Menzler Katja , Knake Susanne
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study investigates the association of Body Mass Index (BMI) and age of epilepsy onset, in patients with epilepsy associated with temporal encephaloceles (TEs).

Methods

A comprehensive PubMed literature review was conducted using the keywords “temporal encephaloceles” and “epilepsy” for identifying articles for the analysis. Inclusion criteria encompassed all evidence levels reporting patients with TE-related epilepsy and documented BMI. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the effect of BMI on predicting epilepsy onset after the 25th year of age. Spearman’s correlation assessed the relationship between BMI with epilepsy onset. Finally, the association between BMI and postsurgical outcomes, distinguishing between more favourable outcomes (Engel Class I and II) and less favourable outcomes (Engell Class III and IV) was explored.

Results

Of the initially identified 88 articles, nine were included in the analysis, involving 127 patients with TE-related epilepsy and reported BMI. The mean age of epilepsy onset was 24.9 years (SD = 14.8 years), with a mean BMI of 28.0 kg/m2 (SD = 7.4 kg/m2). A significant positive correlation was observed between BMI and age of epilepsy onset (rho = 0.448, p < 0.001). Female patients had higher BMI compared to male patients (30.1 kg/m2, SD = 8.7 kg/m2 and 26.5 kg/m2, SD = 5.3 kg/m2 respectively, p = 0.008). However, the epilepsy onset did not differ significantly between male and female patients (p = 0.26). The bivariate logistic regression showed that patients with increased BMI were more likely to have an epilepsy onset after the 25th year of age, adjusted for the confounder sex (OR = 1.133, 95%-CI [1.060, 1.211], p < 0.001). Finally, a potential trend indicated a higher average BMI among patients with more favourable postsurgical outcomes than less favourable postsurgical outcomes (27.3 kg/m2, SD = 7.7 kg/m2 and 24.8 kg/m2, SD = 2.2 kg/m2 respectively, p = 0.076).
MoSey1 regulates the unfolded protein response, appressorium development, and pathogenicity of Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Yang Zifeng , Li Meiqin , Huang Linwan , Chen Xinru , Weng Shuning , Jules Biregeya , Felix Abah , Zheng Huakun , Chen Xiaofeng , Zhang Jun , Wang Zonghua , Cai Yingying , Liang Jingang , Tang Wei
Published: July 2024

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an enclosed three-dimensional eukaryotic membrane network composed of flattened sacs. Fusion of homologous membranes to the ER membrane is essential for the maintenance of this network structure. In yeast, ER membrane fusion is mediated by Sey1p, whose paralogues function distinctly in different species. In this study, we investigated the biological functions of MoSEY1 in the devastating rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae by functional genomic approach. Compared to wild type, deletion of MoSEY1 considerably decreased the growth and conidia production of M. oryzae. Additionally, the absence of MoSEY1 delayed appressorium formation and invasive hyphae growth. The appressorium function was also impaired in ΔMosey1 mutant. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that MoSey1 is localized at the ER. The ΔMosey1 mutant showed augmented sensitivity to ER stress. Additionally, we found that MoSey1 regulated the unfolded protein response, autophagy, and protein secretion in M. oryzae. In conclusion, our study unveiled the involvement of MoSey1 in the development, pathogenesis, and ER functions in M. oryzae.
Sensory processing patterns among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using short sensory profile and evoked potentials: a case–control study
Authors: Salah Alaa , Amr Mostafa , El-Sayed Mohamed , ElWasify Mohamed , Eltoukhy Khaled , Salama Samer , Tobar Salwa
Published: July 2024

Background

Both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are early neurodevelopmental disorders that present notable diagnostic problems and share clinical features. The current research intends to clarify the sensory profile, visual-evoked potential (VEP), and auditory-evoked potential of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and typically developing children (TD). We have observed sensory processing problems in 42–88% of children diagnosed with autism and approximately 50% of children diagnosed with ADHD.

Results

The parents of 37 children diagnosed with ASD, 41 children diagnosed with ADHD, and 43 children who were typically developing completed the short sensory profile (SSP) along with standardized questionnaires used to assess the symptoms and autistic behaviors. We assessed intellectual functioning and evoked potential in all the groups. There were more sensory problems in the ASD and ADHD groups than in the control group (P < 0.001); however, autism and ADHD differed in all subscales except unresponsiveness, auditory filtering, and visual/auditory subscales. Also, the ASD group and ADHD group showed a more significant delay in visual-evoked potential VEP than the control group (mean and SD of right eye p100 latency 150.85 ± 48.70 in ASD vs 119.28 ± 18.06 in ADHD vs 103.42 ± 5.19 in typically developing group, left p100 latency 141.09 in ASD ± 32.55 vs 116.51 ± 10.1 in ADHD vs 103.0 ± 5.91 typically developing group). Additionally, the ASD group significantly deviated from norms in the absolute latency of waves I, III, and V, as well as the inter-wave intervals of I–III and III–V in the auditory-evoked potential. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant distinction between the ADHD and the TD groups in terms of left wave III and V latency and left interpeak latency between I–III and III–V.

Conclusion

Children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD have a greater likelihood than typically developing children to experience sensory processing abnormalities; as a result, we recommend basic assessment, follow-up, and designing the most appropriate intervention.