bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the quality of life after endoscopic frontal sinus drill out procedures: a prospective study
Authors: Hagras Mohamed Mahmoued , Gamea Ahmed Moawad , Erfan Fatt‘he Ali , Elsherif Hossam Sayed
Published: February 2025

Background

Full access to the frontal sinus is necessary for the effective treatment of some disorders affecting the frontal sinus, such as chronic frontal sinusitis [1,2]. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life after endoscopic frontal sinus drill out procedures (Draf III. frontal drill out).

Methods

Thirty patients were admitted between June 2019 and June 2022 for Draf III as guided by endoscopic examination and CT information related to demographics, 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) score, and endoscopic ostium assessment were recorded with a minimum follow-up of 6 months.

Results

There were 30 patients (13 men and 17 women, age range (20–60) years. Pathology of the frontal sinus disease was chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) (12 patients), chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) (11 patients), and (7) patients presented with other pathologies. We reported ostium patency 6 months postoperatively with patent frontal ostia in 54 out of 60 sinuses (90%). Patients had a significant improvement in the total mean SNOT-22 (40.62 ± 19.66) preoperatively and was reduced to (13.47 ± 10.87) 6 months postoperatively. In addition, each of its mean subscale scores was reduced. There was also significant SNOT-22 individual item level improvement postoperatively in all items. No major complications were recorded in our series.

Conclusion

In carefully selected patients with frontal sinus disease, Draf III procedure offers a very significant improvement in their quality of life.
Dissemination intelligence information on social media
Authors: Liao Hao , Zhang Jiwei , Zhang Wei , Zhou Mingyang , Wu Xiaoqun , Chao Naipeng
Published: February 2025

Social media platforms, as complex socio-technical ecosystems, have reshaped the way individuals access, share, and interpret information. The interplay of diverse users, rapid content flow, and intricate network structures exemplifies the complexity science domain, where dynamic interactions give rise to emergent patterns of influence and opinion formation. In this perspective, we review three key areas of intelligent information dissemination on social media: (1) rumor and fake news detection, (2) competitive dissemination, and (3) the identification of influential nodes. We highlight recent advancements that leverage complexity-aware models, graph-based algorithms, and deep learning techniques to manage content credibility and guide the spread of verified information. Finally, we propose future research directions that bridge theory and practice, ultimately contributing to a more informed, reliable, and adaptive digital information ecosystem.
Deciphering sperm-carried IGF2 Transcript Variants: Cloning, qPCR Detection, and Variant Analysis
Authors: Cannarella Rossella , Suryavanshi Mangesh , Calogero Aldo E , Desai Nina , Lundy Scott D , Miller Aaron W
Published: February 2025

Background

The insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) gene, a paternally imprinted gene inactive in oocytes, plays a vital role in early embryo development. While five IGF2 variants have been described, the specific variants expressed in human spermatozoa compared to granulosa cells (GCs) remain unclear.

Objective

To characterize the quantity and variants of IGF2 transcripts expressed in human spermatozoa.

Methods

Post-gradient sperm samples were collected from two healthy, fertile men with normal semen parameters, while GCs were isolated following an oocyte retrieval procedure of a woman undergoing in vitro fertilization due to male factor infertility. RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, PCR amplification, and cloning were performed. PCR products were ligated into PCR4-TOPO vectors and transformed into Escherichia coli DH-10α. A total of 96 positive clones (32 per sample) were characterized via Sanger sequencing to identify variants. qPCR with gene-specific primers analyzed transcript quantities, SNPs, product sizes, and melting temperatures.

Results

Of the 96 true-positive IGF2 cDNA clones, 14 distinct variants were identified, including deletions, insertions, and SNPs, resulting in amino acid sequence changes. Two common variants were present in both sperm and GCs, while two were GC-specific, and the remaining were exclusive to spermatozoa. Some clustered with known NCBI variants, while others formed two novel phylogenetic clusters.

Conclusion

This study expands the repertoire of IGF2 variants and highlights differences between spermatozoa and GC transcripts. It is the first to analyze IGF2 variants in sperm from fertile men, paving the way for future research into their role in embryogenesis.
Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide in Incretin Physiology: Role in Health and Disease
Authors: Wolfe M Michael , Boylan Michael O , Chin Wiliam W
Published: February 2025

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) is a 42-amino acid hormone that is synthesized and released from upper intestinal enteroendocrine K-cells in response to the ingestion of glucose or fat. The structure of GIP places it in the secretin/vasoactive intestinal polypeptide family of gastrointestinal regulatory peptides. Although originally named “gastric inhibitory polypeptide” on the basis of its ability to inhibit gastric acid secretion, GIP accounts for 60%-80% of the postprandial insulin response, consistent with the notion that this regulatory peptide constitutes the principal physiological incretin. Under normal conditions, GIP plays a major role in nutrient deposition and storage, both directly through its insulin mimetic properties and indirectly by enhancing insulin release. GIP is overexpressed in obese individuals, which may exacerbate insulin resistance manifested by many patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Enhanced postprandial secretion of GIP also initiates a vicious cycle characterized by increased nutrient uptake and storage in adipocytes, leading to insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia, which then further increases adipocyte nutrient uptake and storage. Despite the deleterious consequences of GIP overexpression, when combined with glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues, GIP agonism has been demonstrated to provide benefit in treating obesity by mechanisms currently not fully elucidated. In contrast, consistent with the etiologic role of GIP overexpression in the pathogenesis of obesity, both genetic abrogation and immunoneutralization of GIP signaling have been shown to reduce the development of obesity in preclinical models. Whether these beneficial effects of GIP antagonism will be extended to humans needs to be determined.
Treatment with Evinacumab Links a New Pathogenic Variant in the LPL Gene to Persistent Chylomicronemia
Authors: Larouche Miriam , Banerjee Poulabi , Brisson Diane , Pordy Robert , Gaudet Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background

Persistent chylomicronemia is caused by lipoprotein lipase deficiency (LPLD) or lack of LPL bioavailability. This disorder is characterized by plasma triglyceride (TG) levels above 10mmol/L, increased acute pancreatitis risk and features of the familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS). Evinacumab is an angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) monoclonal antibody (mab) and its efficacy in decreasing plasma TG levels depends on LPL bioavailability.

Objective

To identify FCS-causing pathogenic variants in patients with persistent chylomicronemia treated with evinacumab.

Methods

A phase II clinical trial was conducted with evinacumab in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. Plasma TG values were measured at baseline and every 2 weeks for 24 weeks. Three FCS patients homozygotes for a P234L pathogenic variant in the LPL gene (HoLPL P234L) known to be associated with low post-heparin LPL activity (proven LPLD) participated in the study and were used as tracers. Genotype-specific efficacy of evinacumab to decrease TG levels in other participants was compared to that achieved in HoLPL P234L patients.

Results

After 24 weeks of evinacumab treatment, TG levels decrease <20% in HoLPL P234L patients known to lack LPL. Similarly, a participant homozygote for a E282X variant in the exon 6 of the LPL gene that was suspected to be pathogenic due to its location did not respond to evinacumab (TG decrease <10% and remained > 10 mmol/L).

Conclusion

The efficacy of ANGPTL3 inhibitors in decreasing TG levels is LPL-dependent. Poor response to evinacumab supports the evidence that the E282X variant in the LPL gene is pathogenic and associated with persistent chylomicronemia (FCS phenotype).
Single-Position Prone Transpsoas Lateral Interbody Fusion at L4-L5: Technical Pearls
Authors: Choy Winward , Serur Ximena , Giraldo Juan P. , Uribe Juan S.
Published: February 2025

Single-position prone transpsoas (PTP) lateral interbody fusion has been proposed as an alternative to lateral lumbar interbody fusion performed in the lateral decubitus position. The advantages to this single-position technique include facilitating segmental lordosis, obviating the need for repositioning for posterior instrumentation, and providing access for posterior decompression. Although PTP lateral interbody fusion can be a powerful and efficient technique, adopting and navigating this approach is challenging. A learning curve should be expected, even for surgeons who are experienced with traditional lateral lumbar interbody fusion. This review provides a detailed technical description of the PTP technique at L4-L5. In addition, we provide technical pearls aimed at improving surgical ergonomics, workflow, and safety.
Prawo do pełnej informacji w świetle nauczania Kościoła
Authors: Nęcek Robert
Published: February 2025

THE RIGHT TO FULL INFORMATION IN THE LIGHT OF CHURCH TEACHING: THE CONTEXT OF REDUCING THE EFFECTS OF SMOKING
Communication related to the right to full information – in this context, information about reducing the harmful effects of smoking – promotes a culture of closeness and is a service to the integral development of the human person. There are many strategies and plans in the world to combat the effects of smoking. Looking at the issue of reducing the effects of smoking through the prism of the Church’s teaching, it should be recognized that any action that contributes to reducing the harmfulness of nicotine addiction is an action to improve health, and therefore is an action for the common good.
Prasa i media szwedzkie wobec kryzysu emigracyjnego w Europie
Authors: Krawczyk-Mazan Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

THE PRESS AND SWEDISH MEDIA TOWARDS THE EMIGRATION CRISIS IN EUROPE
In the face of the emigration crisis in Europe, Swedish media focused on a wide range of topics, covering both the humanitarian dimension of the problem and the challenges related to the reception and integration of refugees. The press coverage was dominated by a humanitarian narrative, presenting dramatic stories of refugees who sought refuge from war, persecution and poverty.
Quality of life of patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis
Authors: Sharma Tarika , Kang Harmeet Kaur , Shalimar
Published: February 2025

Background:

The incidence of alcohol-associated cirrhosis is increasing as a result of the ongoing rise in worldwide alcohol consumption. The current study was undertaken to assess the quality of life (QoL) of individuals with alcohol-associated cirrhosis and explore the association of this QoL measure with various clinicodemographic variables.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on individuals with alcohol-associated cirrhosis who visited the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital for treatment from October to December 2023. Patients were screened for alcohol use with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and QoL was measured through the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire. Clinicodemographic variables were also assessed. Statistics such as frequency, percentage, independent t-test, ANOVA and Bonferroni tests were used for data analysis.

Results:

Survey results showed that most of the participants (85.6%) had a poor quality of life; the mean score of overall QoL of the study cohort was 3.79±0.95. Analysis at QoL domain level showed that the ‘worry’ domain was the most impacted (mean score 2.88±0.76) followed by ‘Abdominal symptoms’ (mean score 3.32±1.39). QoL scores were found to be statistically significantly associated with AUDIT scores (F=14.328, P<0.001). Post-hoc analysis using the Bonferroni test showed that patients who were alcohol dependent had poorer QoL compared to abstainers or low-risk consumers. Also, patients who were not working because of their disease condition were found to have poor QoL compared to their working counterparts.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that most patients with alcohol-associated cirrhosis have a poor QoL. Patients who were alcohol dependent had poor QoL scores compared to abstainers or low-risk consumers of alcohol. There is a strong need for motivational enhancement, rehabilitation counselling and alcohol use disorder treatment in liver disease care settings. Healthcare professionals must make every effort to help these patients achieve complete abstinence. Approaches such as telehealth could be used by healthcare professionals for ongoing patient monitoring and motivation to make every effort in helping patients achieve complete abstinence.
Predictive Value of Serum N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide, D-Dimer, Albumin Combined with T-Cell Subsets in Detecting Coronary Artery Damage in Children with Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Xing Jing , Gao Hongbo , Zhao Huanhuan , Li Mengjia , Liu Zhenkui
Published: February 2025

Aims/Background Kawasaki disease (KD) is the common acute, self-limiting vasculitis in children, often affecting coronary arteries, which may lead to coronary artery dilation, stenosis, or in severe cases, myocardial infarction. This study aimed to identify new approaches for reducing or preventing coronary artery lesions (CAL) in KD patients by analyzing specific serological markers across various paediatric groups.

Methods Clinical data were collected from 100 children diagnosed with Kawasaki disease (KD) admitted at First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University between May 2023 and June 2024. These children were divided into two groups based on coronary artery injury status: Occurrence group (n = 31) and Non-occurrence group (n = 69). Additionally, data from 100 children with acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and 100 healthy children who underwent routine physical examination during the same period (Healthy group) were included for comparison. Serum levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), D-dimer (D-D), albumin (ALB), and T-cell subsets were measured and compared across groups to evaluate their clinical utility in diagnosing coronary artery damage in KD.

Results NT-proBNP and D-D levels were highest in KD children with coronary artery injury and lowest in the healthy group, while ALB levels were lowest in KD children with coronary artery injury and highest in the healthy group, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.001). Analysis of T-cell subsets revealed that cluster of differentiation (CD)3+, CD4+, and CD4+/CD8+ levels were highest in the Healthy group, while CD8+ levels were highest in the Occurrence group, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.001). The combined diagnostic model demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.885 (95% CI: 0.829–0.941), showing higher specificity and AUC value compared to each marker individually.

Conclusion The combination of serum NT-proBNP, D-D, ALB, and T-cell subsets offers valuable predictive insights for coronary artery damage in KD children and may serve as an auxiliary diagnostic tool.
Combining Circulating Tumour DNA with Clinical Pathological Risk Factors for Developing Peritoneal Metastasis Prediction Model in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Han Bohan , Hu Huabin , Zhang Jianwei , Xie Xiaoyu , Deng Yanhong
Published: February 2025

Aims/Background Peritoneal metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC) indicates a poor prognosis for patients. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) effectively predicts recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, this study aims to construct a predictive model for peritoneal metastasis by integrating ctDNA with clinicopathological factors in stage I–III CRC patients.

Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 299 CRC patients who underwent ctDNA detection at The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University between January 2010 and December 2022. Patients were randomly divided into training (n = 209) and validation (n = 90) sets in a 7:3 ratio using a random number table method. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model optimized feature selection, and multivariable logistic regression constructed the predictive model.

Results Among the study cohort, 59 patients were ctDNA-positive. Postoperative ctDNA positivity was associated with an 8.522-fold increased risk of peritoneal metastasis (p < 0.001, odds ratio (OR) 8.522, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.371–16.615). The model included preoperative carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA-125), pathological lymph node staging, perineural invasion, and ctDNA levels, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.808 (95% CI 0.727–0.888) in the training set and 0.784 (95% CI 0.658–0.910) in the validation set.

Conclusion This model can accurately identify high-risk patients for peritoneal metastasis in postoperative CRC, facilitating early detection and timely intervention.
Latest clinical research
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: February 2025

The latest studies of interest to primary care nurses, rounded up by Mark Greener
Career profile
Authors: Haggerty Sharon
Published: February 2025

Sharon Haggerty, Regional Head of Professional Leadership at NHS England, and Queen's Nurse.
Improved YOLOv3 Network Combined with LSTM Model and Attention Module for Cerebral Aneurysm Detection
Authors: Wenjie Du , Yuanjun Wang
Published: February 2025

Cerebral aneurysm is a kind of cerebrovascular disease, which is mainly diagnosed by reading the MRA slice data to diagnose whether it is suffering from cerebral aneurysm or not, and the medical image detection method based on deep learning can help doctors to improve the detection accuracy and efficiency. Small target detection and the interference of vascular region are the difficulties in cerebral aneurysm detection, which is prone to misdetection or missed detection. Aiming at these problems, we propose an improved method for cerebral aneurysm detection by introducing the LSTM model and the attention module on the basis of the YOLOv3 network, optimizing it in terms of feature processing, time series information construction, weight allocation, etc., using the structure of the YOLOv3 network to achieve effective feature extraction, the regression ability of the LSTM model to construct the time series information among the sliced sequences, and the attention module to assign weights to improve the detection ability of small targets and prevent the interference of blood vessels on the detected targets to improve the detection performance of the network. The experimental results prove the effectiveness of the above improved method which shows significant improvement in the accuracy and anti-interference detection. There is a significant improvement in the detection of cerebral aneurysms, with the precision index reaching 70.8%, an increase of 8.7%, the recall index reaching 76.2%, an increase of 5.0%, and the mAP index reaching 69.9%, an increase of 4.7%, which improves the ability to detect small targets and reduces the interference of blood vessels with the target of detection.
ESTUDO DAS CONSEQUÊNCIAS NAS RECEITAS DE TARIFAS COM O INÍCIO DA OPERAÇÃO DO PIX NO SETOR BANCÁRIO BRASILEIRO
Authors: Leão Pedro Rodrigues Ferreira , Magnani Vinícius Medeiros , Bonizio Roni Cleber
Published: February 2025

O PIX, enquanto tecnologia revolucionária, introduz uma nova dinâmica em um mercado já consolidado, o setor bancário, promovendo impactos sobre as instituições financeiras, principalmente àquelas detentoras de maior market share. O objetivo principal deste estudo consistiu em compreender o impacto do PIX nas receitas de tarifas dos bancos. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo dos sistemas de pagamentos no Brasil, nos quais as taxas anteriormente cobradas pelos bancos foram substituídas pela isenção proporcionada pelo PIX. Dessa forma, desenvolveu-se um modelo de pesquisa que considerou as instituições de maior relevância, dada a sua carteira de crédito ativa, para analisar o efeito da adoção do PIX sobre o índice de rentabilidade das receitas com tarifas. A metodologia utilizada foi a regressão linear multiplica aplicada a dados em painel. Os resultados apontaram que a adoção do PIX teve um efeito negativo sobre o índice de receita com tarifas das instituições financeiras analisadas.
Editorial
Authors: Giraldi Janaina De Moura Engracia
Published: February 2025

Editorial
Optimizing state transfer in a three-qubit array via quantum brachistochrone method [Invited]
Authors: Chernova Kseniia S. , Stepanenko Andrei A. , Gorlach Maxim A.
Published: February 2025

The quantum brachistochrone method has recently emerged as a technique that allows one to implement the desired unitary evolution operator in a physical system within a minimal time. Here, we apply this approach to the problem of time-optimal quantum state transfer in an array of three qubits with time-varying nearest-neighbor couplings and analytically derive the fastest protocol.
An in silico framework for the rational design of vaginal probiotic therapy
Authors: Lee Christina Y. , Bonakdar Sina , Arnold Kelly B.
Published: February 2025

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition characterized by a shift in vaginal microbiome composition that is linked to negative reproductive outcomes and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections. Despite the commonality of BV, standard-of-care antibiotics provide limited control of recurrent BV episodes and development of new biotherapies is limited by the lack of controlled models needed to evaluate new dosing and treatment regimens. Here, we develop an in silico framework to evaluate selection criteria for potential probiotic strains, test adjunctive therapy with antibiotics, and alternative dosing strategies. This computational framework highlighted the importance of resident microbial species on the efficacy of hypothetical probiotic strains, identifying specific interaction parameters between resident non-optimal anaerobic bacteria (nAB) and Lactobacillus spp. with candidate probiotic strains as a necessary selection criterion. Model predictions were able to replicate results from a recent phase 2b clinical trial for the live biotherapeutic product, Lactin-V, demonstrating the relevance of the in silico platform. Results from the computational model support that the probiotic strain in Lactin-V requires adjunctive antibiotic therapy to be effective, and that increasing the dosing frequency of the probiotic could have a moderate impact on BV recurrence at 12 and 24 weeks. Altogether, this framework could provide evidence for the rational selection of probiotic strains and help optimize dosing frequency or adjunctive therapies.
Recent climate change strongly impacted the population dynamic of a North American insect pest species
Authors: Boulanger Yan , Desaint Adèle , Martel Véronique , Marchand Maryse , Massoda Tonye Salomon , Saint-Amant Rémi , Régnière Jacques
Published: February 2025

Climate change is redefining the dynamics of forest ecosystems globally, particularly through its impact on forest pest populations such as the spruce budworm (SBW, Choristoneura fumiferana [Clem.]), a major defoliator in North American boreal forests. This study investigates the shifts in the population dynamics of spruce budworm across its range in response to recent climate change. We used a process-based, temperature-dependent ecophysiological model combined with the ERA5 reanalysis to assess changes in SBW phenology, reproduction rate, winter survival and population growth rates from 1950 to 2022 across North America. Our findings demonstrate a pronounced northward expansion of suitable climate conditions for SBW, accompanied by earlier phenological events and increased reproduction rates in northern regions. Conversely, the southern parts of its range are experiencing increased winter mortality due to warmer temperatures. This study highlights the significant impact of elevated temperatures, particularly during critical developmental windows such as spring and summer, which are pivotal for spruce budworm survival and reproduction. Additionally, our results reveal that the observed shifts in pest dynamics are more strongly driven by climate change than by changes in landscape composition and structure. We estimated that suitable growth rates have shifted northward by over 68 km on average, but this shift reached more than 200 km in the easternmost portions of its range. Climate-induced shift in suitable conditions for SBW underscores the need for adaptive forest management strategies that consider the rapid ecological changes and the potential for increased forest vulnerability due to climatic and biotic stressors. This study provides vital insights that can inform adaptive management ensuring the sustainability of forest ecosystems in the face of ongoing climate change.
International healthcare workers’ experiences and perceptions of the 2022 multi-country mpox outbreak
Authors: Apea Vanessa , Titanji Boghuma K. , Dakin Francesca H. , Hayes Rosalie , Smuk Melanie , Kawu Habiba , Waters Laura , Levy Itsik , Kuritzkes Daniel R. , Gandhi Monica , Rockstroh Jürgen , Schechter Mauro , Holt Martin , Palich Romain , Cortes Claudia P. , Nozza Silvia , Mussini Cristina , Calmy Alexandra , Crabtree-Ramirez Brenda E. , Blanco José L. , Bhagani Sanjay , Dewsnap Claire , Orkin Chloe ,   On Behalf of the Mpox SHARE-NET Writing Group
Published: February 2025

In May 2022, the most widespread outbreak of sustained transmission of mpox outside of countries historically affected countries in Western and Central Africa occurred. We aimed to examine the personal and clinical experiences of international healthcare workers (HCWs) during this public health emergency. We conducted an international cross-sectional survey study between August and October 2022, examining the experiences and perceptions of HCWs clinically involved in the 2022 mpox response. Respondents were recruited via an international network of sexual health and HIV clinicians responding to mpox and promoted through clinical associations and social media. Survey domains included: clinical workload; preparedness; training and support at work; psychological well-being and vaccination. 725 multi-national healthcare workers across 41 countries were included in the analysis. 91% were physicians specialised in Sexual Health or Infectious Diseases; with 34% (n = 247) of all respondents involved in mpox policy. A substantial proportion of respondents (n = 296, 41%) reported working longer hours during the mpox outbreak, with no concomitant removal of other clinical responsibilities. 30% (n = 218) of respondents reported that they had never heard of mpox before the outbreak and over 25% of the respondents reported that they had misdiagnosed someone initially. This culminated in a high prevalence of moral distress at thirty percent. Less than 9% of HCWs in the region of the Caribbean, Central America and South America had been offered a vaccine as compared to almost one-third in the other regions. Where offered, there were high levels of uptake across all regions. The findings highlight a critical need for addressing the profound gaps in HCW knowledge about re-emerging diseases with pandemic potential. Strengthening the resilience of global health systems and prioritising internationally coordinated approaches to global vaccine deployment is imperative.
Empowering change: A cross-sectional study on quality of life in deinfibulated women at Saudi Teaching Hospital, Kassala-Sudan 2023–2024
Authors: Ahmed Wafa Y. , Altayib Lina S. , Omer Alaa T.
Published: February 2025

Deinfibulation [opening the scar of infibulation] is a minor operation involving a vertical incision to the scar to expose the urethra and vagina. Deinfibulation may improve the quality of life for infibulated women. The quality of life after deinfibulation has been sparsely investigated. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the quality of life in deinfibulated women, examining the effects of deinfibulation on the urogenital system, and identifying the reasons for not performing reinfibulation. The study aimed to evaluate the quality of life in women who have undergone deinfibulation and to assess the impact of deinfibulation on the urogenital system. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Saudi Teaching Hospital in Kassala, involving 73 women who previously underwent infibulation and subsequently underwent deinfibulation. Data collection included sociodemographic information, gynecological and obstetric history, reasons for deinfibulation, reasons behind not performing reinfibulation, and assessments of complications such as urinary tract infections and sexual symptoms. Among the participants, 54.8% had female genital mutilation type III FGM, while 45.2% had female genital mutilation type IV. The percentage of women with regular menstrual cycles increased to 100% after deinfibulation. Dysmenorrhea was reported by only 9.6% of participants after deinfibulation. The prevalence of obstructed labor decreased to 1.4%. Episiotomy was performed on all women before deinfibulation, with 78.1% reporting it after deinfibulation. None of the participants had blood loss after deinfibulation. Before deinfibulation, 24.7% of women reported various sexual symptoms, while urinary tract infections were more prevalent at 87.8%. The pain was the primary reason for not undergoing reinfibulation 50.7%, and vaginal delivery was the most common reason for deinfibulation 97.3%. Deinfibulation has the potential to enhance the quality of life for women who have undergone infibulation and demonstrates positive effects on the urogenital system.
The perspectives of women on sustainable fashion consumption: Comparative study of university teachers and students
Authors: Stankevičiūtė Živilė , Jarmalavičiūtė Ieva
Published: February 2025

In the recent decade, fashion industry has been receiving extensive criticisms for having a significant negative impact on the environment and people. As the counterpoint of rapid pace and cheap prices which trigger overconsumption, sustainable fashion started turning into a new trend and demand for business. As the interest of consumers in sustainability continues to grow, the literature started analysing what drives or hinders them from sustainable consumption. However, acknowledging the gender differences, there is a gap in literature regarding sustainable fashion consumption from the perspective of female consumers. The purpose of this paper is to reveal the sustainable fashion consumption of females, comparing the clusters of university teachers and students. In doing this, a qualitative research was conducted, with 24 semi-structured interviews in total. The findings revealed a huge contradiction. Although females are aware of sustainable fashion elements, at the same time, they, especially students, do not consider sustainability as a primary motivation for their behaviour. As such, the gap between attitude and behaviour was revealed. Although teachers try to find the good ratio between quality and price, for students, the price usually wins when it comes to purchasing clothes. The representatives from both clusters do shopping from fast fashion retailers; however, students do it much more often and intensively in comparison to teachers. The teachers mainly use swapping and redesigning as sustainable fashion consumption practices. In case of students, second-hand shops and Vinted were prevailing. Among the drivers leading to sustainable consumption, awareness, uniqueness and personal style, and item life-cycle extension were mentioned. Regarding the barriers, high price and low income, personal restrictions, and lack of information and knowledge were mainly emphasised. The findings could be considered to initiate changes, which could enable closing the attitude-behaviour gap.
Barriers to participation in Iran’s Integrated Geriatric Care Program: A qualitative study
Authors: Nazaripanah Neda Sadat , Nadrian Haidar , Bahrevar Vali , Lotfalinezhad Elham , Hashemiparast Mina
Published: February 2025

Background

A significant number of older adults still have unfulfilled needs related to healthcare and social services. Policymakers and health administrators can turn this challenge into a golden opportunity through proper planning and policymaking. This study aimed to identify barriers to participation in Iran’s “Integrated Geriatric Care Program (IGCP)”.

Methods

A qualitative study with conventional content analysis approach was conducted in Yazd City, Iran, from January to March 2023. A purposive sampling method with maximum variation was used. Nineteen healthcare providers and community-dwelling older adults participated in the study. Data were collected using semi-structured in-depth interviews until data saturation and were concurrently analyzed.

Results

Nine older persons (3 women and 6 men) with a Mean±SD age of 71.33±5.75 and ten healthcare providers (6 women and 4 men) with a Mean±SD age of 38.2±9.16 participated in the study. Two main categories, with ten sub-categories, emerged from the data analysis. The main categories were “personal challenges of older adults” and “structural defects of Integrated Geriatric Care Program”.

Conclusion

The participation of community-dwelling older adults in the Iranian IGCP is constrained by a combination of personal and structural factors. Our findings seem to be informative for health policymakers and health practitioners who aim to enhance the quality and quantity of healthcare services for older adults in developing communities.
Long-term consumption of hydrogen-rich water provides hepatoprotection by improving mitochondrial biology and quality control in chronically stressed mice
Authors: He Qi , Lan Xiang , Ding Mengyuan , Zhang Na
Published: February 2025

Background

Chronic stress has emerged as a prevalent facet of contemporary existence, significantly jeopardizing overall bodily health. The liver, a pivotal organ responsible for metabolic equilibrium, is particularly vulnerable to its adverse effects. This study delves into the hepatoprotective properties of extended consumption of HRW in mice subjected to chronic stress.

Methods

Mice subjected to chronic stress via CUMS and HRW administration for seven months underwent liver pathological examination. Key liver function indicators (AST, ALT), oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, GSH), and markers related to lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis (MDA, Fe) were measured using standard kits. ELISA determined corticosterone and 4-HNE levels. Immunofluorescence evaluated ROS, Nrf2, and apoptosis in liver tissues. Western blotting analyzed markers for ferroptosis (GPX4, SLC7A11, HO-1, Nrf2), apoptosis (Bax, Bcl-2, Cytc, Caspase-3, Caspase-8), mitochondrial biogenesis (Nrf1, PGC-1α, Tfam), and quality control (Drp1, Fis1, Mfn1, Mfn2, OPA1, PINK1, Parkin, LC3 I/II).

Results

The findings indicate a noteworthy improvement in liver health among mice exposed to HRW, as evidenced by histological analysis. Furthermore, the consumption of HRW exhibited hepatoprotection, as evidenced by the normalization of AST and ALT levels. Mechanistically, our results indicate that HRW elevates the levels of SOD, CAT, and GSH, while effectively clearing ROS within mitochondria. It was observed led to a regulation in the expression of mitochondrial quality control proteins, consequently improving mitochondrial biogenesis (Nrf1, PGC-1α, Tfam), and increasing ATP production. Furthermore, HRW decreased Cytc, Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-8 levels, and increasing the expression of Bcl-2. Additionally, HRW reduced MDA and 4-HNE levels, alleviating ferroptosis through the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and upregulating the expression of GPX4 and SLC7A11. By mitigating hepatocyte death through the aforementioned mechanisms, HRW fulfills its crucial role in safeguarding liver health.

Conclusions

This study reveals that long-term hydrogen-rich water (HRW) consumption provides significant hepatoprotection in mice under chronic stress. HRW normalizes liver enzyme levels, enhances antioxidant capacity, and reduces lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis. It improves mitochondrial biogenesis, function, and ATP production, and attenuates apoptosis by modulating related proteins. Behavioral tests show HRW alleviates stress-induced anxiety and enhances exploratory behavior. These findings suggest HRW is a promising non-invasive intervention for preventing and treating stress-related liver disorders by targeting oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Academic writing challenges and supports for early-stage Chinese postgraduates: A mixed-methods study on teaching-research integration, supervisor engagement, and self-efficacy
Authors: Zhang HuanHuan , Xu XiaoShu , Lei Vivian Ngan-Lin , Hong Wilson Cheong Hin , Jie Weng
Published: February 2025

Enhancing academic publication outcomes and writing skills in postgraduates is a key goal for higher education institutions, ideally through early intervention. This study examines the challenges and support needs of early-stage Chinese postgraduates in academic writing, as well as the factors influencing their publication outcomes and writing self-efficacy. Using snowball sampling, 73 postgraduates were surveyed through questionnaires and reflective journals. Thematic analysis and linear regression were applied to analyze the data. Findings reveal primary challenges in literature review, research methods, data analysis, and topic selection. Key support needs include supervisor guidance, knowledge resources, tools, and self-assessment. Results indicate that the year of study, meeting frequency, supervisor support, teaching-research nexus, and self-efficacy do not significantly impact publication outcomes. However, supervisor support and the quality of the teaching-research nexus positively influence self-efficacy. These findings highlight the importance of providing targeted support and fostering intrinsic motivation to enhance the writing skills and self-efficacy of early-stage postgraduate students.
Combining 3D printing technology with customized metal plates for the treatment of complex acetabular fractures: A retrospective study
Authors: Xu RongDa , Zhang He , Duan SiYu , Liang HaiRui , Sun Ming , Wen Hang , Liu HanFei , Zhou XueTing , Cai ZhenCun
Published: February 2025

Purposes

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of combining 3D printing technology with customized metal plates in the treatment of complex acetabular fractures.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 42 patients with complex acetabular fractures treated at our hospital between September 1, 2020 and May 31, 2022. The patients were divided into two groups: the conventional group and the 3D printing group, with 21 individuals in each group.The conventional group underwent surgery using traditional surgical techniques, with appropriate bending and adjustment of the metal plates during the procedure. In the 3D printing group, preoperative 3D printing technology was utilized to create a physical model of the fracture, and individualized metal plates were customized based on the model after virtual reduction. Comparison was made between the two groups of patients regarding surgical approach, operative time, instrument handling time, intraoperative blood loss, number of fluoroscopy scans, fracture healing time, quality of fracture reduction postoperatively, hip joint function at 12 months postoperatively, and occurrence of complications during the follow-up period.

Results

The 3D printing group showed significantly shorter surgical time (124.76±12.89 minutes vs. 174.05±12.51 minutes), instrument operation time (44.57±5.32 minutes vs. 62.9±7.47 minutes), intraoperative blood loss (337.38±51.95 mL vs. 545.24±74.39 mL), and intraoperative fluoroscopy frequency (8.25±1.18 times vs. 10.52±1.6 times) compared to the conventional group (P<0.001). The postoperative fracture reduction quality in the 3D printing group was good in 95.24% (20/21) of cases, significantly higher than the 61.90% (13/21) in the conventional group (P = 0.02). The excellent and good hip function rate in the 3D printing group was 90.48% (19/21), which was also significantly higher than 57.14% (12/21) in the conventional group (P = 0.01). No significant difference was observed between the two groups in fracture healing time (13.95±1.07 weeks vs. 13.81±1.17 weeks) and complication rate (9.52% vs. 28.57%) (P = 0.14; P = 0.24).

Conclusion

The application of 3D printing technology in conjunction with individualized customization of metal plates for the treatment of complex acetabular fractures can shorten surgical and instrument handling time, reduce intraoperative blood loss, and improve the quality of fracture reduction as well as the recovery of hip joint function.These results provide new insights and technical support for the treatment of complex acetabular fractures.
Maternity care providers’ experiences of work-related serious events (MATES): An International survey
Authors: Healy Maria , Leahy-Warren Patricia , Calleja-Agius Jean , Calleja Neville , Lalor Joan , Hadjigeorgiou Eleni , Nieuwenhuijze Marianne
Published: February 2025

Internationally, many women experience physiological childbirth with positive experiences and good health outcomes for them and their baby. For some, due to health complications and context of childbirth they may experience or be perceived as having had a traumatic birth. Ultimately, whether an individual experiences an event as traumatic or not, is a personal experience. Caring for women who experience their birth as traumatic can be challenging. The risk of exposure to a traumatic birth event(s) as part of maternity care providers (MCPs) work, ranges from 67% to 90%. Thereby to support MCPs to provide quality maternal and newborn care, it is important to explore the impact of work-related events. An anonymised online survey relating to MATernity serious EventS (MATES) was developed utilising validated instruments and hosted on QualtricsXM. Following ethical approval, the questionnaire was disseminated internationally across 33 countries between 1st July and 31st December 2022 via social media and the COST Action DEVOTION (CA18211 www.ca18211.eu) network. In total, 579 MCPs responded with a wide age range and years of experience. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed, including univariate and multivariate linear regression. Data analyses and management were undertaken using SPSS v.20 and two-sided significance tests were applied (α 0.05). The findings suggest that MCPs are exposed to a large variation of serious events and continue to be intensely affected, up to the present day. Events ranged from stillbirth, neonatal death, maternal death, severe or life-threatening maternal or infant incidents and violence and aggression from women or family member. Institutional support for staff is limited, and when available, seldom used. Family and friends were relied on for support, but this does not appear to be associated with MCPs experiencing less secondary traumatic stress. Subsequently MCPs were absence from work through sickness (22%), changed their professional allocation (19%) and seriously considered leaving (42%). Moreover, many reported low to moderate compassion satisfaction and burnout (65–80%). With international scarcity of MCPs, the impact of these events seem to contribute to this shortage. Effective support for MCPs is required if staff are to be recruited and retained.
Bioinformatics analysis of genes associated with disulfidptosis in spinal cord injury
Authors: Wang Shuang , Liu Xinhua , Tian Jun , Liu Sizhu , Ke Lianwei , Zhang Shuling , He Hongying , Shang Chaojiang , Yang Jichun
Published: February 2025

Research findings indicate that programmed cell death (PCD) plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of spinal cord injury (SCI), and a recently discovered form of cell death, disulfidptosis, has emerged as a novel phenomenon. However, the characterization of disulfidptosis-related genes in SCI remains insufficiently explored. We retrieved SCI-related data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and identified three key genes associated with disulfidptosis in human SCI (CAPZB, SLC3A2, and TLN1), whose mediated signaling pathways are closely intertwined with SCI. Subsequent functional enrichment analysis suggested that these genes may regulate multiple pathways and exert corresponding roles in SCI pathology. Moreover, we predicted potential targeted drugs for the key genes along with their transcription factors and constructed an intricate regulatory network. CIBERSORT analysis revealed that CAPZB, SLC3A2, and TLN1 might be implicated in modulating changes within the immune microenvironment of individuals with SCI. Our study provides compelling evidence confirming the significant involvement of disulfidptosis following SCI while offering valuable insights into its underlying pathological mechanisms.
Risk factors associated with the recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers: A meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Chunmei , Tian Jianqing , Zhang Zhijun , Zheng Caiyu , Liu Jinhao
Published: February 2025

Aims

Diabetic foot ulcers have caused significant medical, economic and social consequences for patients, families and society. With appropriate treatment, many diabetic foot ulcers can heal, temporarily avoiding possible amputation. Unfortunately, even if foot ulcers subside, recurrence is still common. The recurrence of ulcer has brought another physical and psychological trauma to diabetic foot patients who yearn for a better life. Therefore, it may be more useful to evaluate the factors associated with ulcer recurrence in diabetic foot ulcer patients.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were comprehensively searched for prospective or retrospective studies published up to February 1, 2024. All English or Chinese language studies on diabetic foot ulcer patients who experience recurrence were included, and RevMan 5.3 software was used to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 22 studies meeting the eligibility criteria were ultimately included in this meta-analysis. 1861 of 5252 diabetic foot ulcer patients experienced recurrence during follow-up. The following variables were associated with an increased risk of ulcer recurrence: male (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.10 ~ 1.44, P = 0.0009), smoking history (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.04 ~ 1.35, P = 0.01), living alone (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.21 ~ 2.86, P = 0.004), plantar ulcers (OR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.41 ~ 4.23, P = 0.001), diabetic retinopathy (OR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.35 ~ 1.88, P < 0.00001), diabetic nephropathy (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.12 ~ 1.68, P = 0.002), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (OR = 1.78, 95% CI = 1.45 ~ 2.19, P < 0.00001), foot deformity (OR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.85 ~ 3.40 P < 0.00001) and peripheral arterial disease (OR = 3.10, 95% CI = 2.43 ~ 3.95 P < 0.00001). However, hypertension (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.96 ~ 1.40, P = 0.13) and body mass index (MD = 0.20, 95% CI = −0.12 ~ 0.53, P = 0.22) were not associated with diabetic foot ulcer recurrence.

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis identified the following important risk factors for diabetic foot ulcer recurrence: male sex, smoking history, living alone, plantar ulcer, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, foot deformity, and peripheral arterial disease. Understanding these factors and their impact on ulcer recurrence is crucial for multidisciplinary teams to develop management and treatment plans for diabetic foot ulcer patients.