bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Emotional Self-Efficacy and Life Satisfaction of Elementary School Children on the US-Mexico Border
Authors: Lin Mei-Ling , Paat Yok-Fong
Published: September 2024

Objectives. It has been established that an adult’s perceived ability to effectively address negative emotions predicts their life satisfaction. To increase the understanding of ethnic minority children’s mental health and quality of life, this study examined the relationship between perceived emotional self-efficacy and life satisfaction of Hispanic children. Methods. Using the nonexperimental–correlational research design and the convenience sampling method, a total of 176 fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students (73 boys, 103 girls; 88% Hispanic) in one public elementary school on the US-Mexico border were recruited to participate in this study. Emotional self-efficacy was measured using the emotional subscale of the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Children and subjective well-being was measured using the Student Life Satisfaction Scale. Spearman correlation and ordinal regression analyses were used to test the study hypotheses. Results. Consistent with findings from the current literature, emotional self-efficacy was positively associated with subjective well-being. Children in lower elementary grades were more likely to report higher emotional self-efficacy than those in higher elementary grades. Boys were more likely to report higher life satisfaction than girls. Conclusions and Relevance. Using a sample of elementary school children with Hispanic backgrounds on the US-Mexico border, this study attested to the empirical link between emotional self-efficacy and life satisfaction. Our study findings stress the importance of early identification of students with low emotional self-efficacious beliefs and the early introduction of social-emotional learning programs in elementary schools to enhance students’ emotional self-efficacy. This study contributes to positive psychology literature and provides insights for future school-based mental health practice and research.
Discrimination against Hispanics and Eastern European Immigrants in the United States: Evidence from a Field Experiment
Authors: Dias Felipe A.
Published: September 2024

How do race and foreign-born status shape labor market outcomes? Existing frameworks about discrimination against immigrants posit that the further people are racially and socioculturally from the “mainstream,” the more discrimination they will experience. To date, we lack a direct empirical test of how race and foreign-born status combine in a causal manner in hiring. To fill this empirical gap, I use insights from status aggregation theory and racial boundary formation to develop and test empirical predictions about how race and nativity status combine in hiring. I test these hypotheses using data from a large-scale field experiment in 18 U.S. metropolitan statistical areas in semi-skilled jobs. Results from the audit study show that employers discriminate based on nativity status and that these effects are similar for Hispanic and Eastern European immigrants. I discuss the implications of these findings for theories of immigrant incorporation and literature on employer hiring decisions.
Right-Wing Authoritarianism between Different Religions and Its Negative Effect on Attitudes and Behaviors toward COVID-19 Policies in Brazil
Authors: Rossoni Luciano , Gonçalves Clayton Pereira , Silva Mônica Pereira da
Published: September 2024

Some conservative governments denied the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, inducing their supporters to go against sanitary measures. However, could individuals aligned with such political beliefs jeopardize their health due to ideological conviction? In a survey conducted with 1,461 Brazilians exclusively designed for this purpose, the data indicate that the higher the right-wing authoritarianism, the worse the attitudes toward government policies combating COVID-19 and the lower the preventive behavior in the early stages of the pandemic. Considering the support provided by evangelical religions to conservative governments, we compared the effect of right-wing authoritarianism among different religious groups, where the results were consistent. Right-wing authoritarianism emerged as the strongest predictor of resistance to pandemic prevention attitudes and behaviors even when controlling its effect with belief in science, demographics, and risk factors. The implications of the relationship between right-wing authoritarianism and the denial of public health measures have not ceased with the pandemic: Identification with authoritarian agendas points toward resistance to vaccination campaigns and the combating of epidemics.
(Un)sustainable futures and the “vulnerable other”: Rethinking conditional inclusion in times of climate change
Authors: Giudici Daniela
Published: September 2024

“Vulnerable others”, such as forced migrants, are often perceived and presented as problematic subjects, in that they would not easily conform to western, privileged notions of environmental sustainability. Grounded on ethnographic insights from refugees and social workers in the North of Italy, this article explores imaginaries, institutional encounters, and everyday experiences of refugees’ participation in the so-called sustainable transition. In this context, an adequate care for domestic environments emerges as one of the main tenets in the mission of socializing migrant bodies to ideals of environmental responsibility. Attending to the inherent ambivalences of normative notions of care and eco-friendliness, I engage in a reflection on how new and diverse orientations towards “sustainability” are formed and enacted in everyday life. At the same time, I show how the growing public significance of sustainable development is transforming paradigms and landscapes of conditional inclusion.
‘Rhetoric of Violence’ and Representation of the Self: A Study of Select Dalit Women’s Writings in Malayalam
Authors: Gayathri S. S.  , Mathew Reju George
Published: September 2024

The degraded social status of Malayali Dalit women, signified by the intersectionality of caste and gender disparities is not well recognized in Kerala so far. Dalit women writers in Kerala gained momentum with a prospectus to challenge misrepresentations and stereotyping by mainstream and Dalit men writers. Their writings criticize the caste order that demonstrates its power through symbolic forms of violence against Dalits in Kerala. This article is an attempt to understand representation and counter-representation of caste-based violence and oppression in three Malayalam short stories by Dalit women writers, Rekha Raj, Reena Sam and M. D. Dhanya. The stories are analyzed on the background of Teresa De Lauretis’s concept of the ‘rhetoric of violence’ that recognizes how the language of violence codifies and constructs objects and subjects of violence to propagate dominant ideologies. The article will also look at how the authors depict the traumatic effect produced by caste-based violence on Dalit psyche.
Quantification of Human Thermal Risks During Ambient Temperature Steps Based on Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Huang Qianqian , Li Jian , Li Jun
Published: September 2024

Occupational workers in hot environments face heat strain during temperature up-steps and cardiovascular strain during temperature down-steps. However, existing thermal risk evaluation models primarily focus on heat strain, neglecting potential risk after large temperature down-steps. This study employs a comprehensive multi-indicator approach to assess both heat strain and cardiovascular strain. Method: Six physiological and psychological parameters were selected for evaluation indexes, and four levels of thermal risk were established. Then trigonometric membership functions were proposed to determine the membership degrees related to the evaluation grades. Combined with the entropy weight method, a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model was developed to assess thermal health risk levels. Results: Results indicated that core temperature, heart rate, and mean skin temperature are important physiological factors for assessing heat strain, while thermal sensation and perceived exertion also contribute significantly. The variation in blood pressure is relevant to cardiovascular strain. The developed model can distinguish the effects of temperature step magnitude and clothing thermal resistance on heat strain. A temperature difference of 40°C (from 40°C to 0°C) leads to a moderate level of cardiovascular strain and a 24% probability of high cardiovascular strain risk. Conclusions: These findings underscore the significance of transitional spaces and appropriate clothing choices in mitigating thermal risks and promoting human health and comfort in environments with substantial temperature variations.
Origin and the possible industrial application of Adi-Hano kaolin resources, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Gidey Teklay , Gebru Yeman , Hagos Miruts , Gebremicale Azeb , Hagos Ataklti , Gebreegziabher Fisseha , Kide Yemane , Yerra Satyaprasad
Published: September 2024

The majority of commercial kaolin deposits in Ethiopia originate from felsic igneous rock. On the other hand, the Adi-Hano kaolin deposit is a recently recognised kaolin deposit that was formed from sandstone. Nevertheless, this provides insight into potential deposit occurrences in the region's sedimentary sequence. This study aims to characterise the genesis, quality, quantity and potential industrial uses of Adi-Hano kaolin deposit. It was carried out by integrated field geological descriptions, thin-section interpretation, physical testing, mineralogical (X-ray diffraction, XRD) and geochemical investigations. An inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) and an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES) were used to analyse the geochemistry. The main mineral phases in the deposit are quartz and kaolinite, while the minor mineral phases are rutile, cristobalite and tridymite. The elevated value of quartz, limits the quality of kaolin being as an impurity for its industrial use. The integrated result indicates that insitu weathering followed by leaching of the arkosic sandstone played a great role in kaolin deposit formation. The average chemical index of alteration (CIA; 94.18%) also shows that the source rock has experienced strong weathering and alteration. The deposit contains minor concentrations of Sr + Ba and Fe2O3 + TiO2, and high concentrations of Y + Ce + La and Nb + Cr values, which are indicative of a supergene type origin. Following treatment of the deposit, its similar grain size distribution, colour, relatively high Al2O3, relatively low TiO2, Fe2O3 and alkali components make it suitable for a variety of industrial uses, such as ceramics, refractory, paper coating and paint.
Death Café conversations: evaluating the educational potential for university students in palliative care teaching
Authors: Borque Ignacio , Oliete Elena , Arantzamendi María , Centeno Carlos
Published: September 2024

Background:

Discussing death, particularly among future healthcare professionals, remains a challenge. The “Death Café” initiative offers a relaxed setting for such conversations, and this study investigates its educational potential for medical students.

Objectives:

To assess the effectiveness of “Death Café” as an educational tool for medical students in palliative care, and to understand students’ perceptions and reflections on death and end-of-life topics post-participation.

Design:

An exploratory qualitative design was employed, analyzing reflections submitted by medical students following voluntary participation in a Death Café session.

Methods:

Medical students from a course on palliative care participated in the “Death Café,” a structured yet informal discussion about death in a relaxed café setting. Subsequently, participants submitted written reflections on their experiences. These reflections were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, identifying emerging themes related to the students’ perceptions of death, the event, and its impact on their future medical practice.

Results:

Forty-two students attended the Death Café. Twenty-one reflections were collected from 29 medical students who participated. Most students found the “Death Café” environment conducive to open conversations about death. Key themes included recognizing the fragility of life, the role of medical professionals in end-of-life care, and the personal and professional growth derived from such reflections. The students also highlighted the transformative nature of the event, shifting from discussing death in general to pondering on their roles as future healthcare professionals. Positive feedback indicated the absence of negative comments about the activity, with suggestions provided for future iterations.

Conclusion:

The “Death Café” serves as an innovative pedagogical approach to medical education, particularly in palliative care teaching. It offers students a platform for sincere dialogue on death and reinforces the significance of integrating innovative methods in medical training. This initiative not only enriches personal understanding but also emphasizes the commitment to holistic patient care.
Re-living trauma near death: an integrative review using Grounded Theory narrative analysis
Authors: Johnston Nikki , Chapman Michael , Gibson Jo , Paterson Catherine , Turner Murray , Strickland Karen , Liu Wai-Man , Phillips Christine , Bail Kasia
Published: September 2024

Background:

Symptoms of emotional and physical stress near death may be related to previous experiences of trauma.

Objective:

To investigate current evidence regarding the following: (1) Is previous trauma identified in people who are dying, and if so, how? (2) How is previous trauma associated with the experience of death/dying in people with or without cognitive impairment? and (3) What palliative care interventions are available to people with previous trauma at the end of life?

Design:

This integrative review was conducted per Whittemore and Knafl’s guidelines, which involves a stepped approach, specifically (1) problem identification, (2) literature search, (3) data evaluation, (4) data analysis and (5) presentation.

Methods:

This integrative review was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases were searched in August 2021 and updated in August 2023. The articles were quality appraised, and narrative data were analysed using Grounded Theory (GT).

Results:

Of 1310 studies screened, 11 met the inclusion criteria (four qualitative and seven quantitative) conducted in Australia, Canada, Japan and the United States; and American studies accounted for 7/11 studies. Eight were focused on war veterans. Descriptive studies accounted for the majority, with only two publications testing interventions. Re-living trauma near death has additional features to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder alone, such as physical symptoms of uncontrolled, unexplained acute pain and this distress was reported in the last weeks of life.

Conclusion:

This study proposes that re-living trauma near death is a recognisable phenomenon with physical and psychological impacts that can be ameliorated with improved clinical knowledge and appropriate management as a new GT. Further research is needed to enable past trauma identification at the end of life, and trauma-informed safe interventions at the end of life are an urgent need.
SLC6A1 patient & organization perspective: founding of SLC6A1 connect, research, and ongoing efforts
Authors: Tiller Jacob , DeLeeuw Melissa B. , Kang Jing-Qiong , Freed Amber
Published: September 2024

This paper describes the founding of the SLC6A1 Connect organization, which offers resources to patients and families with SLC6A1 diagnoses while keeping current with a scientific overview of the disorder. Following the birth of her two lovely twins, Amber Freed noticed how her son, Maxwell, missed motor development milestones and would often stare. Eventually, these signs led to a diagnosis of an SLC6A1 variant. The SLC6A1 gene is located on the short arm of chromosome 3 and the gene encodes for the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter 1 (GAT-1) protein. This transporter is responsible for the reuptake of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. The transporter usually removes GABA from the synapse space between two neurons, limiting over-excitability in the brain, which can lead to seizures and motor deficits as Amber noticed in her son, Maxwell. Amber realized that there were nearly no treatment options for her son’s condition so she began forming connections with scientists and doctors. Initially, she flew to see Dr. Steven Gray, with whom she developed a research plan for a gene replacement therapy to treat the variant along with a design for a clinical trial. Not only this but they needed to raise four million dollars to fund these endeavors. Freed founded the SLC6A1 Connect organization to raise money and awareness and put together a network of dedicated researchers and families. Since then, the organization has raised over two million dollars and grown to offer families a base of support. The organization even hosts a yearly symposium with families, scientists, and biotech or pharmaceutical companies worldwide. In addition, we detail how the organization now offers informational resources to families to help them understand the science behind the variant and ways to help their children such as registry links and genetic testing options. These endeavors have led the organization to collaborate with scientists based on institutions such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, the Cleveland Clinic, and many industrial pharmaceutical partners.
Patient Experience and Attitudes Toward Electronic Intake and Patient-Reported Outcomes Within an Outpatient Whole Health Center
Authors: Segall Tracy L , Rodgers-Melnick Samuel N , Surdam Jessica , Srinivasan Roshini , Dusek Jeffery A
Published: September 2024

Background: The use of electronic intake forms within the electronic health record (EHR) is an emerging method for routinely collecting patient-reported outcomes (PRO). However, few studies have evaluated experiences/perspectives toward electronic forms among outpatients receiving care within Integrative Health and Medicine (IHM) clinics. The study purpose was to understand patients’ perspectives of electronic intake and PRO forms in the outpatient IHM setting.

Methods: Electronic intake (e.g., treatment expectations, medical history, chief complaints, prior experience with integrative modalities) and PRO forms (i.e., Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System [PROMIS]-29, Perceived Stress Scale 4, Oswestry Disability Index) were designed in collaboration with clinic leadership and the Information Technology team. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather perspectives of the functionality and acceptability of the forms among outpatients receiving care at the IHM center. Interviews were coded to describe themes regarding perceptions and suggestions for improvement.

Results: Qualitative interviews were completed with 10 participants (median age 51 years, 70% female, 30% Black/African American). Participants considered electronic intake and PRO forms as relevant to their health concerns, valuable for conveying important health information to providers, and easy to navigate. Suggested changes to the intake form included adding relevant open-ended questions, save and print functions, and examples and definitions to prompt responses.

Conclusion: Participants felt the electronic format was a feasible and acceptable method of collecting patient information and PROs. Future goals are to implement the revised forms in a common EHR to patients receiving care at multiple IHM clinics across the United States.
‘You Can Die With Me But I Won’t Let You Live With Me’, Exploring Social Influences on the Continuation of Heroin Use in Men Who Use Heroin
Authors: Houghton Ben , Kouimtsidis Christos , Duka Theodora , Paloyelis Yannis , Bailey Alexis , Notley Caitlin
Published: September 2024

Background:

Heroin is a substance with a unique social profile in that it is commonly used by individuals alone but there is a paucity of qualitative research exploring how social influences impact the continuation of heroin use, particularly when people are trying to stop using heroin. This study explored social determinants which influence the continuation of heroin use in males in UK community treatment who use illicit heroin alongside opioid replacement therapy.

Design:

Participants were self-selecting from an initial purposively recruited sample. Using Janis (1972) 8 symptoms of Groupthink as an a priori framework for analysis, the study method utilised qualitative interviews with fourteen males. The discussions were digitally-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically.

Findings:

Contrasting with the evidence base, the sample included people who transitioned from recreational drug use to dependent heroin use without experiencing trauma of any kind. Far from becoming socially isolated when actively using heroin, interviews identified a shift in social networks from networks built on shared moments to networks underpinned by transactional exchange. Components of Groupthink were identified when participants described belonging to heroin using networks and continued to use heroin whilst trying to abstain though individual accountability was central to the decision to continue to use heroin.

Conclusions:

The conflict between the individual goal of abstinence and the group goal of continuation suggests that social network interventions could be more successful if delivered to cohorts of people who buy heroin together.
Mitigation of hydropower—ecosystem conflict in China
Authors: Xia Siyou , Poon Jessie P.H. , Wang Changjian
Published: September 2024

The conflict between hydropower development and ecosystem is an issue that cannot be ignored. This commentary analyzes hydropower exploitation and ecosystem risks in China, and underscores the need for China to take action to mitigate hydropower-ecosystem conflict. It outlines multiple conflict-mitigation strategies and practices aimed at ensuring a sustainable, carbon-neutral future for hydropower.
Electric vehicles—a win-win in underdeveloped countries
Authors: Chen Hao , Maharjan Gyanu Raja
Published: September 2024

Reducing carbon emissions is a social and economic trend in the context of global warming. This essentially involves a shift in energy consumption patterns and sustainable development. However, many less developed countries are faced with the dilemma of lack of carbon reduction funds and technologies. Fortunately, such countries like Nepal are often rich in clean energy resources such as water, wind, and light. Nepal is an important Himalayan country with abundant hydropower resources. Now, Nepal produces more and more hydropower—how do you use this clean energy? Nepal needs electric vehicles (electromobiles like new energy cars) to develop a green economy, so as to make full use of abundant hydropower resources and promote the upgrading of industries to a low-carbon direction, which is a win-win. Nevertheless, this energy transition requires the government to develop long-term and systematic plans for electric vehicles, which is an important prerequisite for the success of the green revolution.
Integrating network pharmacology, molecular docking and experimental verification to explore the therapeutic effect and potential mechanism of nomilin against triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Wu Zhixuan , Xiang Haoyi , Wang Xiaowu , Zhang Rongrong , Guo Yangyang , Qu Liangchen , Zhou Jingyao , Xiao Yanyi
Published: September 2024

Background

Nomilin is a limonoid compound known for its multiple biological activities, but its role in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains unclear. This study aims to uncover the potential therapeutic effect of nomilin on TNBC and elucidate the specific mechanism of its action.

Methods

We employed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), differential expression analysis, and the GeneCards database to identify potential targets for TNBC. Simultaneously, we utilized the Swiss Target Prediction, ChEMBL, and STITCH databases to identify potential targets of nomilin. The core targets and mechanisms of nomilin against TNBC were predicted through protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, molecular docking, and enrichment analysis. The results of the network pharmacology were corroborated by conducting experiments.

Results

A total of 17,204 TNBC targets were screened, and 301 potential targets of nomilin were identified. Through the PPI network, eight core targets of nomilin against TNBC were pinpointed, namely BCL2, Caspase3, CyclinD1, EGFR, HSP90AA1, KRAS, PARP1, and TNF. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and proteome microarray revealed that nomilin exhibits strong binding activity to these core proteins. Enrichment analysis results indicated that the anti-TNBC effect of nomilin is associated with PI3K/Akt pathway. In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that nomilin inhibits TNBC cell proliferation and migration while promoting cell apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt pathway.

Conclusion

For the first time, the research effectively discovered the objectives and mechanisms of nomilin in combating TNBC using network pharmacology, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, proteome microarray and experimental confirmation, presenting a hopeful approach for treating TNBC.

Graphical Abstract
Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) in hematological diseases
Authors: Ma Shuangping , Qin Yiran , Ren Wenjie
Published: September 2024

The oncofetal mRNA-binding protein IGF2BP1 belongs to a conserved family of RNA-binding proteins. It primarily promotes RNA stability, regulates translation and RNA localization, and mediates gene expression through its downstream effectors. Numerous studies have demonstrated that IGF2BP1 plays crucial roles in embryogenesis and carcinogenesis. IGF2BP1-modulated cell proliferation, invasion, and chemo-resistance in solid tumors have attracted researchers’ attention. Additionally, several studies have highlighted the importance of IGF2BP1 in hematologic malignancies and hematological genetic diseases, positioning it as a promising therapeutic target for hematological disorders. However, there is a lack of systematic summaries regarding the IGF2BP1 gene within the hematological field. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the discovery and molecular structure of IGF2BP1, along with recent studies on its role in regulating embryogenesis. We also focus on the mechanisms by which IGF2BP1 regulates hematological malignancies through its interactions with its targeted mRNAs. Furthermore, we systematically elucidate the function and mechanism of IGF2BP1 in promoting fetal hemoglobin expression in adult hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells. Finally, we discuss the limitations and challenges of IGF2BP1 as a therapeutic target, offering insights into its prospects.
Comparison of free vascularized fibular grafts and the Masquelet technique for the treatment of segmental bone defects with open forearm fractures: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Ming , Ma Yunhong , Jia Xueyuan , Wu Yongwei , Liu Jun , Wang Yapeng , Wang Peng , Luo Junhao , Lin Fang , Wang Jianbing , Rui Yongjun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Severe open forearm fractures commonly involve segmental bone defects. Although several methods have been proposed to treat segmental bone defects with such fractures, research comparing the radiological and clinical outcomes of free vascularized fibular grafts (FVFG) and the Masquelet technique (MT) is rare.

Methods

Data on 43 patients with open forearm fractures and segmental bone defects treated surgically in our hospital from January 2005 to January 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and these patients were divided into an FVFG group (18 cases) and an MT group (25 cases). Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed regularly, and the minimum follow-up was 18 months.

Results

All 43 patients were followed up for 18 to 190 months, with a mean of 46.93 months. The mean follow-up time was significantly longer in the FVFG group than in the MT group (p = 0.000). Bone healing time was 3–16 months, with a mean of 4.67 months. The QuickDASH score at the last follow-up was 0–38.6, with a mean of 17.71, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Operative time, hospital stay, and intraoperative bleeding for bone defect reconstruction were higher in the FVFG group compared to the MT group (p = 0.000), whereas the number of procedures was lower in the FVFG group than in the MT group (p = 0.035).

Conclusions

FVFG and the MT showed satisfactory clinical results for segmental bone defects of the forearm. Compared with FVFG, the MT exhibited a lower operative time, hospital stay, and intraoperative bleeding.

Level of evidence

Level IV.

Trial registration This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration no. ChiCTR2300067675; registered 17 January 2023), https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=189458.
Epispadias, a correctable cause of structural infertility in a middle-aged man: a case report
Authors: Kura Mustapha , Abdulsalam Khalifa Ibrahim , Ayodeji Afolayan , Arogundade Abayomi , Ezekiel David
Published: September 2024

Background

Epispadias is a rare form of genito-urinary congenital anomaly and presentation in the middle-ages is even rarer. The reproductive outcome of treatment which was almost immediate, highlights the life changing effect of appropriate treatment for this condition in a middle-aged patient. We hereby report this rare case of a middle-aged man presenting with complete male epispadias with background infertility and the outcome of effective treatment. (Reviewer #1. Comment 1).

Case presentation

Our patient is a 54-year-old security guard who presented to our facility in February 2022 (Reviewer #1. Comment 3) with passage of urine from an abnormal opening since birth. Examination revealed a middle-aged man having ammoniacal smell. He had a spade like glans penis, ventral hooding, urethral meatus at the root of the penis dorsally with no chordee. He was diagnosed to have complete male epispadias (CME) for which he eventually had a modified Cantwell–Ransley procedure under general anaesthesia. About 3 months after the procedure, patient was able to impregnate his wife, a feat he will be achieving for the first time in his life.

Conclusions

The right treatment irrespective of age at presentation could significantly improve the quality of life of patients as evidenced by our patient whom after surgery was able to impregnate his wife for the first time at 54 years of age.
Whole genome sequencing and characterization of Corynebacterium isolated from the healthy and dry eye ocular surface
Authors: Naqvi Maria , Utheim Tor P. , Charnock Colin
Published: September 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to characterize Corynebacterium isolated from the ocular surface of dry eye disease patients and healthy controls. We aimed to investigate the pathogenic potential of these isolates in relation to ocular surface health. To this end, we performed whole genome sequencing in combination with biochemical, enzymatic, and antibiotic susceptibility tests. In addition, we employed deferred growth inhibition assays to examine how Corynebacterium isolates may impact the growth of potentially competing microorganisms including the ocular pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as other Corynebacterium present on the eye.

Results

The 23 isolates were found to belong to 8 different species of Corynebacterium with genomes ranging from 2.12 mega base pairs in a novel Corynebacterium sp. to 2.65 mega base pairs in C. bovis. Whole genome sequencing revealed the presence of a range of antimicrobial targets present in all isolates. Pangenome analysis showed the presence of 516 core genes and that the pangenome is open. Phenotypic characterization showed variously urease, lipase, mucinase, protease and DNase activity in some isolates. Attention was particularly drawn to a potentially new or novel Corynebacterium species which had the smallest genome, and which produced a range of hydrolytic enzymes. Strikingly the isolate inhibited in vitro the growth of a range of possible pathogenic bacteria as well as other Corynebacterium isolates. The majority of Corynebacterium species included in this study did not seem to possess canonical pathogenic activity.

Conclusions

This study is the first reported genomic and biochemical characterization of ocular Corynebacterium. A number of potential virulence factors were identified which may have direct relevance for ocular health and contribute to the finding of our previous report on the ocular microbiome, where it was shown that DNA libraries were often dominated by members of this genus. Particularly interesting in this regard was the observation that some Corynebacterium, particularly new or novel Corynebacterium sp. can inhibit the growth of other ocular Corynebacterium as well as known pathogens of the eye.
Assessment of antioxidant properties in selected pigmented and non-pigmented rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasm and determination of its association with Rc gene haplotypes
Authors: Rebeira Srikanthi , Jayatilake Dimanthi , Prasantha Rohitha , Kariyawasam Thamali , Suriyagoda Lalith
Published: September 2024

Background

Antioxidant properties of rice provide various health benefits due to its ability to inhibit cellular oxidation. Antioxidant content of rice is known to be linked with the pericarp pigmentation. The Rc gene of rice (Os07g0211500) codes for a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) protein, acting as a transcriptional factor in regulating proanthocyanidin biosynthesis. The current study was carried out to evaluate the variation of antioxidant properties in a selected panel of rice accessions and assess the possibility of using haplotypes defined based on the Rc gene to predict pericarp pigmentation and antioxidant content in rice.

Results

Thirty-two rice accessions were evaluated for grain pericarp colour and antioxidant properties; total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), proanthocyanidins (PAC) and radical scavenging activity (RSA). The parameters TPC, TFC and PAC showed significant positive correlation with RSA (r > 0.69; P < 0.01). The study panel showed a wide variation for antioxidant properties and rice accessions such as Sudu Heenati, Deweraddiri, Madathawalu, Masuran, Ld 368, At 311, Kalu Heenati, Bw 272-6B, Pokkali, At 362 and Wanni Dahanala exhibited profound potential with respect to antioxidant properties. Based on three-target sites previously reported as critical for the function of the coded bHLH protein (an A/C SNP at 1,353-bp, a 1-bp insertion/deletion at 1,388-bp, and a 14-bp insertion/deletion at 1,408-1,421-bp positioned in the mRNA corresponding to the exon 6 of rice Rc gene), three haplotypes were defined (H1-H3). Pigmentation of the rice pericarp could be successfully explained based on the defined haplotypes (H1 (C/G/+): red, and H2 (A/G/+) and H3 (C/G/-): white), and the H1 haplotype corresponded to a significantly (P < 0.05) higher TPC, TFC, PAC and RSA compared to the other haplotypes.

Conclusions

The studied rice accessions showed a significant variation with respect to antioxidant properties. Haplotype H1 defined based on the three-target sites in the exon 6 of Rc gene can detect rice accessions with red pigmented pericarp and high antioxidant properties effectively. Hence, its use can be recommended as an alternative to biochemical assays for screening during rice breeding programs.
Treatment burden in multimorbidity: an integrative review
Authors: Lee Ji Eun , Lee Jihyang , Shin Rooheui , Oh Oonjee , Lee Kyoung Suk
Published: September 2024

Background

People living with multimorbidity experience increased treatment burden, which can result in poor health outcomes. Despite previous efforts to grasp the concept of treatment burden, the treatment burden of people living with multimorbidity has not been thoroughly explored, which may limit our understanding of treatment burden in this population. This study aimed to identify the components, contributing factors, and health outcomes of treatment burden in people with multiple diseases to develop an integrated map of treatment burden experienced by people living with multimorbidity. The second aim of this study is to identify the treatment burden instruments used to evaluate people living with multimorbidity and assess the comprehensiveness of the instruments.

Methods

This integrative review was conducted using the electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and reference lists of articles through May 2023. All empirical studies published in English were included if they explored treatment burden among adult people living with multimorbidity. Data extraction using a predetermined template was performed.

Results

Thirty studies were included in this review. Treatment burden consisted of four healthcare tasks and the social, emotional, and financial impacts that these tasks imposed on people living with multimorbidity. The context of multimorbidity, individual’s circumstances, and how available internal and external resources affected treatment burden. We explored that an increase in treatment burden resulted in non-adherence to treatment, disease progression, poor health status and quality of life, and caregiver burden. Three instruments were used to measure treatment burden in living with multimorbidity. The levels of comprehensiveness of the instruments regarding healthcare tasks and impacts varied. However, none of the items addressed the healthcare task of ongoing prioritization of the tasks.

Conclusions

We developed an integrated map illustrating the relationships between treatment burden, the context of multimorbidity, people’s resources, and the health outcomes. None of the existing measures included an item asking about the ongoing process of setting priorities among the various healthcare tasks, which highlights the need for improved measures. Our findings provide a deeper understanding of treatment burden in multimorbidity, but more research for refinement is needed. Future studies are also needed to develop strategies to comprehensively capture both the healthcare tasks and impacts for people living with multimorbidity and to decrease treatment burden using a holistic approach to improve relevant outcomes.

Trial registration

DOI:https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/UF46V
Care needs of patients with the post-COVID syndrome in Dutch general practice: an interview study among patients and general practitioners
Authors: Rijpkema Corinne , Knottnerus Bart J. , van den Hoek Rinske , Bosman Lisa , van Dijk Liset , Verheij Robert A. , Bos Isabelle
Published: September 2024

Background

The post-COVID syndrome (PCS) has a large impact on an individual’s daily life. The wide variety of symptoms in PCS patients and the fact that it is still relatively new makes it difficult for general practitioners (GPs) to recognize, diagnose and treat patients with PCS, leading to difficulties in assessing and fulfilling healthcare needs. It is largely unknown what the experiences of Dutch patients and GPs are with PCS and, therefore, we gained insight into the different aspects of living with PCS and the associated healthcare needs.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were performed with 13 self-reported PCS patients (varying in sex, age, education, and health literacy) and 6 GPs (varying in gender, age, and type of practice) between January-July 2022. Patients and GPs were most likely unrelated (not in the same practices). The data have been analysed using the Thematic Analysis method.

Results

Experiences appeared to vary between two types of PCS patients that emerged during the interviews: (1) individuals with good pre-existing health status (PEHS) who are severely affected by PCS and have difficulty recovering and (2) individuals with poorer PEHS whose health became even poorer after COVID-19 infection. The interviews with PCS patients and GPs revealed two main themes, in which the types of patients differed: (1) aspects of living with PCS; individuals with good PEHS mainly experience symptoms when overstimulated, while individuals with poorer PEHS generally feel exhausted continuously. (2) Healthcare experiences; GPs emphasized that individuals with good PEHS seem to benefit from support in distributing their energy by careful planning of daily activities, whereas individuals with poorer PEHS require support in activation. Patients and GPs emphasised the importance of taking patients seriously and acknowledging their symptoms. Finally, the patients interviewed indicated that some GPs doubted the existence of PCS, resulting in insufficient recognition.

Conclusion

Awareness of the differences in needs and experiences of the two types of PCS patients could contribute to more appropriate care. Acknowledgement of PCS by GPs as a real syndrome is important for patients and plays an important role in coping with or recovering from PCS. A multidisciplinary person-centred approach is important and can be coordinated by a GP.
Feasibility of a person-centred multidimensional interdisciplinary rehabilitation programme in community-dwelling people with dementia: a randomised controlled pilot trial
Authors: Hasselgren Låtta , Conradsson Mia , Lampinen Josefine , Toots Annika , Olofsson Birgitta , Nilsson Ingeborg , Gustafsson Maria , Lindelöf Nina , Holmberg Henrik , Gustafson Yngve , Littbrand Håkan
Published: September 2024

Background

A team-based, individualised rehabilitation approach may be required to meet the complex needs of people with dementia. This randomised controlled pilot trial evaluated the feasibility of a person-centred multidimensional interdisciplinary rehabilitation programme for community-dwelling older people with dementia and their informal primary caregivers.

Methods

Participants with dementia were randomised to an intervention group (n = 31, mean age (SD) 78.4 (6.0) years) or usual care (n = 30, mean age 79.0 (7.1)). The rehabilitation programme consisted of a 20-week rehabilitation period containing assessments and interventions based on each individual’s goals, and group-based physical exercise plus social interaction twice a week for 16 weeks at a rehabilitation unit. After 5 and 14 months, the interdisciplinary team followed up participants over two four-week periods. For both groups, dates of deaths and decision to move to nursing home over three years, as well as interventions for the relevant periods, were collected. Blinded assessors measured physical functions, physical activity, activities of daily living, cognitive functions, nutritional status, and neuropsychiatric symptoms at baseline and at 5, 12, 24, and 36 months.

Results

Participants in the intervention group received a mean of 70.7 (20.1) interventions during the 20-week rehabilitation period, delivered by all ten team professions. The corresponding figures for the control group were 5.8 (5.9). In the intervention group, all but one participated in rehabilitation planning, including goal setting, and attendance in the exercise and social interaction groups was 74.8%. None of the adverse events (n = 19) led to any manifest injury or disease. Cox proportional hazard regression showed a non-significant lower relative risk (HR = 0.620, 95% CI 0.27–1.44) in favour of the intervention for moving to nursing home or mortality during the 36-month follow-up period. Linear mixed-effect models showed non-significant but potentially clinically meaningful between-group differences in gait, physical activity, and neuropsychological symptoms in favour of the intervention.

Conclusions

The rehabilitation programme seems feasible among community-dwelling older people with dementia. The overall results merit proceeding to a future definitive randomised controlled trial, exploring effects and cost-effectiveness. One could consider to conduct the programme earlier in the course of dementia, adding cognitive training and a control attention activity.

Trial registration

The study protocol, ISRCTN59155421, was registered online 4/11/2015.
Antimicrobial Sub-MIC induces Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation without affecting the bacterial count
Authors: Elawady Raghda , Aboulela Aliaa G. , Gaballah Ahmed , Ghazal Abeer A. , Amer Ahmed N.
Published: September 2024

Background

Biofilm formation is an essential virulence factor that creates a highly protected growth mode for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) to survive in any hostile environment. Antibiotic sub-minimal inhibitory concentration (sub-MIC) may modulate the biofilm formation ability of bacterial pathogens, thereby affecting bacterial pathogenesis and infection outcomes. Intense antimicrobial therapy to treat biofilm-associated infections can control the pathogenic infection aggravation but cannot guarantee its complete eradication.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the sub-MICs effect of 5 different antimicrobial classes on biofilm-forming capacity among Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates using three different biofilm quantitation techniques.

Methods

In this study, the effects of 5 different antimicrobial agents, namely, azithromycin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, and imipenem, at sub-MICs of 12.5%, 25%, and 50% were tested on 5 different clinical isolates of S. aureus. The biofilms formed in the absence and presence of different antimicrobial sub-MICs were then assessed using the following three different techniques: the crystal violet (CV) staining method, the quantitative PCR (qPCR) method, and the spread plate method (SPM).

Results

Biofilm formation was significantly induced in 64% of the tested conditions using the CV technique. On the other hand, the qPCR quantifying the total bacterial count and the SPM quantifying the viable bacterial count showed significant induction only in 24% and 17.3%, respectively (Fig. 1). The difference between CV and the other techniques indicates an increase in biofilm biomass without an increase in bacterial growth. As expected, sub-MICs did not reduce the viable cell count, as shown by the SPM. The CV staining method revealed that sub-MICs of imipenem and ciprofloxacin had the highest significance rate (80%) showing an inductive effect on the biofilm development. On the other hand, doxycycline, azithromycin, and gentamicin displayed lower significance rates of 73%, 53%, and 47%, respectively.

Conclusion

Exposure to sub-MIC doses of antimicrobial agents induces the biofilm-forming capacity of S. aureus via increasing the total biomass without significantly affecting the bacterial growth of viable count.