bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary revision of Alpheus djeddensis Coutière, 1897 species complex, with description of three new species of goby-associated snapping shrimps and taxonomic notes on A. macellarius Chace, 1988 and A. djiboutensis De Man, 1909 (Decapoda: Alpheidae)
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR
Published: June 2024

The present study deals with several species of goby-associated snapping shrimp in the taxonomically challenging Alpheus brevirostris (Olivier, 1811) species group. Alpheus djeddensis Coutière, 1897 is redescribed based on two specimens from the original type series and material recently collected on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. Alpheus djiboutensis De Man, 1909, a species without extant type material, is removed from the synonymy of A. djeddensis after a careful analysis of the original description by De Man (1909). A cryptic species, morphologically undistinguishable from A. djeddensis, but with a significant divergence in the COI gene sequence and several consistent differences in colour pattern, is described as A. shukran sp. nov., based on material from Oman and Saudi Arabia. Both A. djeddensis and A. shukran sp. nov. are closely related to A. macellarius Chace, 1988, another potential species complex. Two species previously confused with A. djeddensis or A. djiboutensis in ecological literature and underwater field guides are described as A. tigrinus sp. nov. and A. berumeni sp. nov., based on material from the Red Sea, mainly Saudi Arabia. Each of them has a unique and diagnostic colour pattern and differs from A. djeddensis and A. djiboutensis by a few subtle morphological characters. The identity of the material preliminarily identified as A. cf. tigrinus and A. cf. berumeni from localities outside of the Red Sea needs to be confirmed by molecular analyses. Finally, three specimens from the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia are preliminarily identified as A. cf. djiboutensis; their true taxonomic identity, however, remains to be clarified further. All available information on goby associations for the herein treated species is provided.
Indian Farmers’ Struggle 2020–2021: Contemporary Agrarian Questions and Challenges for a Marxian Political Ecology of Agriculture
Authors: Ravipati Nikhil
Published: June 2024

This essay draws from critical agrarian studies and the history of farmer’s movements in India in order to shed light on a central problem that the Marxian political ecology of agriculture must confront: how can we develop an ecologically adequate approach to agrarian questions without falling into populism? Or, put differently, how can we reformulate the intuitions of food sovereignty movements through the perspective of the ‘global worker’, thus revealing the ‘unity of the diverse’? It does so by reflecting on debates surrounding the meaning of the agrarian questions in the 21st century, responses to the farmers’ struggle against the so-called new farm laws, and the crisis confronting capitalist world-ecology in the neoliberal era. In particular, the essay thinks through the Bernstein–McMichael debate in the context of the recent farmers’ struggle. It concludes by posing some problems that the Marxian political ecology must confront today.
Book review: Azra Razzack, Padma M. Sarangapani, and Manish Jain (Eds.), Education, Teaching, and Learning: Discourses, Cultures, and Conversations—Essays in Honour of Professor Krishna Kumar
Authors: Tilak Jandhyala B. G.
Published: June 2024

Azra Razzack, Padma M. Sarangapani, and Manish Jain (Eds.), Education, Teaching, and Learning: Discourses, Cultures, and Conversations—Essays in Honour of Professor Krishna Kumar, Orient BlackSwan, 2023, 379 pp., ₹795, ISBN 9789354425615 (Paperback).
Barriers to Seek Professional Help for Mental Health Scale: Development and Psychometric Validation
Authors: Sanghvi Prachi , Mehrotra Seema , Das Sumit Kumar , Sharma Manoj Kumar
Published: June 2024

Background:

Mental health conditions are highly prevalent, and both supply- and demand-side factors drive a high treatment gap. There is a dearth of socio-culturally appropriate measures to assess barriers to professional help-seeking in distressed non-treatment seekers. This study aimed to develop and validate the Barriers to Seek Professional Help for Mental Health Scale for distressed, non-treatment-seeking young adults experiencing common mental health concerns in the Indian context.

Methods:

The study was conducted in three phases: Phase I: development of initial measure; Phase II: scale try-out ( N = 190); and Phase III: validating the factor structure ( N = 172). Distressed, non-treatment-seeking young adults (20–35 years old) were recruited for the present study. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to identify the factor structure, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to validate it.

Results:

EFA showed that a five-factor structure best fits the data, namely, stigma and minimization, instrumental barriers, problem perception, self-efficacy in service utilization, and negative service expectancies. CFA revealed that the model was a reasonably good fit. The scale was finalized into a 24-item measure. Internal consistency reliabilities of the scale and subscales were satisfactory. Correlation patterns of barriers subscales with help negation, help-seeking inclination, and distress support its convergent validity.

Conclusion:

The Barriers to Seek Professional Help for Mental Health Scale was developed, and preliminary evidence supports its reliability, construct, and convergent validity. The scale could prove valuable for assessing barriers to seeking professional help for mental health in the Indian context, developing help-seeking interventions, and examining their effectiveness in increasing the uptake of mental health services.
Fuzzy Methods in Entrepreneurship Research
Authors: Olumekor Michael
Published: June 2024

The use of fuzzy theory has grown across many academic disciplines, including business, management and economics. In entrepreneurship research, methods such as Fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (fAHP), fuzzy Delphi, fuzzy logic and fuzzy Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory are increasingly used. The emerging nature of these methods necessitates a synthesis of extant research in this field. Therefore, this research study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the growth of fuzzy methods in entrepreneurship via a bibliometric analysis. Using Scopus as the main data source, a systematic approach for data retrieval, screening and analysis was used. The results include a temporal analysis of citations, and analyses of influence and productivity. Furthermore, using a scientific mapping approach, the main thematic clusters and emerging themes are unpacked. Dominant themes include fsQCA, entrepreneurial orientation, female entrepreneurship, sustainability, entrepreneurial intention and innovation. Emerging themes include COVID-19, sports, ecosystems and the configurational approach. This article concludes with suggestions for future research.
Looking at Sustainability More Fundamentally: Quest for a Holistic Worldview
Authors: Babu Gopal , Satya Harsh , Satya Santosh , Pandey Bihari Nandan
Published: June 2024

An in-depth analysis of earlier work for sustainable development has revealed that well-intentioned and rigorous efforts globally towards achieving sustainability have at best achieved marginal results. The problem appears to be certain inherent contradictions within the contemporary paradigm of development. The article explores these unaddressed contradictions and argues that the present model of development is fundamentally incapable of resolving the prevalent problems of contemporary times. Hence, a strong need is felt to relook at sustainability more fundamentally and work towards a paradigm shift. Such a shift in the paradigm of development would put emphasis on sustainable consumption—a shift from sense gratification to actual human happiness and from treating nature as a resource for consumption to appreciating the inherent balance based on interconnectedness in nature.
Redefining the Role of Structures to Change Sectoral Resources Governance Towards Sustainable and Inclusive Management
Authors: Amedzro St-Hilaire Walter
Published: June 2024

This article offers a new perspective on public management for sectoral governance. It explains how the role of structures has evolved and redefined, and how this evolution has created new ways of public action. The research method used is developmental content analysis with a focus on qualitative study. This process involves transcribing qualitative data, developing an analytical framework, coding the collected information and analyzing it. The framework ensures consistent analysis of the evolution and redefinition of structures related to sectorial management. The analysis reveals the diversification of practices and the implementation of new modes of public management. In addition to more decentralized management, the involvement of regional county municipalities allows the implementation of management-oriented projects. The analysis demonstrates that reconciling the demands of sectorial management with the socioeconomic reality of the regions is not always easy and that there are still many obstacles in the path of establishing and maintaining innovative sectorial management practices. This article identifies the obstacles to sectoral management, including a cumbersome regulatory framework, low levels of government support for the regional county municipalities, a lack of human and material resources, and a low level of public interest. It also provides references for the evolution of sectorial management in other regions of the world.
Profitability Is Not a Ticket to Increase the Investments in ESG: Evidence from Indian Banks
Authors: Rastogi Shailesh , Kanoujiya Jagjeevan , Gautam Rahul Singh , Agarwal Bhakti
Published: June 2024

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) has gotten traction from all the stakeholders of firms, including banks. It is included in many decision-making processes, including financing and investment decisions. However, the relationship of ESG with the firm’s financial distress (FD) is uncertain. This article aims to investigate this uncertain situation using a panel of data from 12 years (2010–2021) from banks in India gathered to test the association between ESG and FD empirically. It is found that ESG does not impact FD. However, the interaction of ESG with banks’ profitability significantly and adversely impacts FD. Determining the association between ESG and FD when profitability moderates the association is a unique contribution, as no other study has been observed. The study’s main implication is to decouple the ESG from the bank’s profitability. The banks should not cross the limit to invest in ESG, even if they are highly profitable, to maintain their financial stability. The lack of multi-country data can be considered a study limitation, which can also be a future scope. The developing countries are expected to have a similar outcome. However, in a prospective study, comparing developing and developed economies would add further value to the topic.
pT1 Staged Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of a Young female: A Case Report
Authors: Akhtar Soubia , Afzal Yumna , Khan Ashar Masood , Malik Wardah Ramaisa , Ikram Mubasher
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims:

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare and slowly progressing cancer that frequently starts in minor salivary glands, often causing no symptoms. Therefore, advanced stage at initial presentation is frequently reported.

Case Presentation:

We provide a case study of a 33-year-old young woman with pT1 staging adenoid cystic tumour, emphasising the clinical presentation, treatment plan and patient prognosis. Comprehensive examination and imaging tests showed that the patient had a growing mass at the base of her mobile tongue. The diagnosis was supported by histopathological examination. Based on the tumour’s small size and minimal invasion, pT1 was assigned as its staging. A comprehensive treatment strategy was used, and during surgery, the tumour was removed with precise margins that preserved both function and appearance. One-year follow-up showed no evidence of recurrence or ongoing problems.

Conclusion:

This case report emphasises the significance of early diagnosis, thorough treatment planning and attentive follow-up. It also highlights the infrequent presentation of disease.
First Encounters: Young People’s Perceptions of Criminal Justice
Authors: Bolin Anette , Henry Alastair , Sorbring Emma
Published: June 2024

For young people, a first encounter with criminal justice can have lasting effects. While perceptions of equitable treatment can generate feelings of belongingness and acceptance, treatment perceived as unfair or prejudicial can generate experiences of dissonance and exclusion. However, little research has examined young people’s appraisals of justice system encounters. The purpose of the study was to examine perceptions of criminal justice among young people suspected of a first, non-serious offence. Using an intensive longitudinal design, young people suspected of criminal activity ( n = 21) were interviewed during a justice process. Using subjective procedural justice as an analytical framework, a theory-driven thematic analysis was conducted. Results revealed how the actions of crime-prevention professionals were mostly appraised as proportionate and beneficially intended. However, some participants reported negative encounters and lacking opportunities for agency. Findings are evaluated in relation to the long-term consequences of a first encounter with criminal justice.
The effectiveness of corpus use in ESL/EFL writing: A meta-analysis
Authors: Ngo Thuy Thi-Nhu , Chen Howard Hao-Jan
Published: June 2024

The present study performs a meta-analysis to examine the effectiveness of corpus use in English as a second language (ESL) / English as a foreign language (EFL) writing. Data from 30 studies encompassing 56 effect sizes reported between 2000 and 2022 were collected for the analysis. Furthermore, multiple meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore the variables that may influence the observed effects. These variables are extracted from three groups of data: publication data, population data, and treatment data. The results demonstrate a large overall effect size (g = 0.95) for the impact of corpus use in ESL/EFL student writing performance. This finding suggests that utilizing corpora significantly enhances students’ writing abilities in these contexts. Moreover, the analyses of moderators reveal that the observed effects can be attributed to various variables within all three groups of data. Notably, learner factors such as language family, proficiency level, and educational level, as well as treatment factors including duration, corpus type, teaching activity, and teacher role, play significant roles in shaping the effects of corpus use. This study highlights the potential of corpus-based approaches as a valuable tool for enhancing student writing performance in ESL/EFL contexts.
Fostering Sustainability Through Workplace Spirituality: A Qualitative Study of Three Case Study Organizations in a Muslim Country’s Context
Authors: Yousaf Ummara , Dogar Muhammad Nadeem
Published: June 2024

The first motive of this study is to know how the case study organizations working in a Muslim country practice workplace spirituality. The second is how effective they are in nurturing a sustainable mindset through the practice of workplace spirituality in their organizations. Workplace spirituality was explored through this qualitative study in three case study social sector organizations in Pakistan and it was inferred how these organizations carried sustainable organizational practice. The interviews and focus group discussions were carried out with the organizational members. Thematic analysis techniques were applied to analyze the textual data and themes were identified related to the research questions. After thematic analysis of the interviews and focus group discussions from three organizations, various themes emerged that showed how these spiritual organizations practice workplace spirituality. Themes that were found prominent included the practice of ‘Spiritual Leadership’, ‘Volunteerism in Employees’, ‘Brotherhood’, ‘Halal Earnings’, ‘Barkat’, ‘Customers as the Guest of Allah’, ‘Creating Compassion’ in employees, ‘Connection with the Creator’, ‘Making employees Cause-Focused through training’, ‘Inner or Spiritual Satisfaction’, ‘Community Sense’, the ‘Well-being of the People’, ‘Positive Attitude’, ‘Help Humanity’, and the ‘Negation of Materialistic Culture’. These were regarded as case study organizations’ sustainable organizational practices.
‘It’s Both a Blessing and a Curse’: Law Firm Attitudes to Qualifying Work Experience in England and Wales
Authors: Todd Andrea , Blackburn Lucy
Published: June 2024

With the advent of the Solicitors’ Qualifying Examination (SQE), Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) allows for flexibility in the journey to qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales that was not previously permitted by the Period of Recognized Training. This development was heralded as a lever to widening access to the profession, with the potential to assist those who may not have been recruited onto traditional graduate-level training programmes in securing a qualified legal role. This paper discusses the findings of empirical research conducted by the authors with a view to understanding the perceptions of, and attitudes towards, QWE of those responsible for recruitment in UK law firms. It reveals a friction between the perceived, and actual, value of QWE obtained via non-traditional routes and exposes the threat that law firm stances on QWE pose to the regulator’s aim of widening access to the profession.
Madheshi Dalit Women’s Access to Citizenship and Livelihood Alternatives in Nepal
Authors: Pandey Krishna Prasad
Published: June 2024

This article delves into the ramifications of Madheshi Dalit Women’s (MDWs) access to citizenship on their strategies for livelihood. Within the context of Nepal, the discourse surrounding citizenship often portrays the MDWs as immigrants or insufficiently authentic citizens. This perception is rooted in historical social hierarchies that have systematically marginalized individuals possessing multiple subordinate identities, such as Madheshis, Dalits, women and the landless. Remarkably, the MDWs embody all of these identities. The prevailing narrative of a hill-based national identity endorsed by the state has prompted inquiries into the loyalty of the MDWs to the nation, consequently undermining their rightful citizenship claims. Drawing upon qualitative field research conducted in Nepal’s central and eastern Tarai districts, where a significant population of Madheshi Dalits resides, this study investigates the intricate interplay between access to citizenship and its implications for livelihood strategies and survival challenges: land ownership and labour participation. The findings underscore the considerable challenges faced by the MDWs, including limited livelihood options, acute landlessness and unorganized wage labour.
Effects of Abstinence from Opioid on Sexual Functioning in Men with Opioid Use Disorder: An Observational Study
Authors: Kaur Gurneet , Sidana Ajeet , Singh Swarndeep
Published: June 2024

Objective:

Sexual dysfunction amongst persons with opioid use disorder (OUD) is quite prevalent. Research about the effects of abstinence from opioids on sexual functioning is scarce. The aim of this study is to assess the sexual functioning among men with OUD and examine the effects of abstinence from opioids on sexual functioning.

Methods:

An observational study was conducted at a tertiary-level multi-specialty public-funded hospital in northern India. A total of 50 men with OUD underwent a self-report–based assessment of sexual functioning using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15). Five sub-domains of IIEF-15 (i.e., erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction) were assessed at baseline, two weeks and eight weeks of abstinence from opioids.

Results:

A total of 44 participants out of 50 reported significant dysfunction. Most of them reported dysfunction in the domains of overall satisfaction (88%, n = 44) and sexual desire (72%, n = 36). After eight weeks of abstinence from opioids, 10 participants out of 44 reported improvement on mean assessment scores. The improvement was noted as follows: erectile function (8%), orgasmic function (2%), sexual desire (8%), intercourse satisfaction (8%) and overall satisfaction (16%) as compared to baseline. There was significant improvement in the subdomain of sexual desire ( p value .05) over the course of eight weeks of abstinence compared to baseline.

Conclusion:

Abstinence from opioids leads to improvement in sexual functioning over a period of eight weeks of abstinence in men with OUD.
Cruelty Against Men: Neglected Narrative from a Male’s Perspective
Authors: Ghosh Abhijeet , Kumar Ambika
Published: June 2024

Cruelty against men is a widely neglected narrative in the discourse of gender-based violence. Despite the widespread recognition of the existence of violence against women, violence against men often goes unnoticed and unacknowledged. The issue has become a topic of discussion in recent years, with scholars and activists highlighting the prevalence and impacts of violence against men. Violence against women has been at the forefront of discussions on gender violence for a long time, but it cannot be said for violence against men. The focus of discussion and research has primarily been on women as victims of violence, while the experiences of men have been marginalized. The aim is to explore the issue of cruelty against men, including its causes, types, impacts and challenges in addressing it, and to focus on exploring the experiences of men who have suffered cruelty, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse to examine the reasons why these experiences have been ignored. It highlights the need for more research on cruelty against men and the development of policies to address the affair. This article seeks to highlight the issue of cruelty against men, the forms of violence they face and the impact it has on their lives.
β-hydroxybutyrate resensitizes colorectal cancer cells to oxaliplatin by suppressing H3K79 methylation in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Deng Meng , Yan Peijie , Gong Hui , Li Guiqiu , Wang Jianjie
Published: June 2024

Background

Ketone β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) has been reported to prevent tumor cell proliferation and improve drug resistance. However, the effectiveness of BHB in oxaliplatin (Oxa)-resistant colorectal cancer (CRC) and the underlying mechanism still require further proof.

Methods

CRC-Oxa-resistant strains were established by increasing concentrations of CRC cells to Oxa. CRC-Oxa cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were checked following BHB intervention in vitro. The subcutaneous and metastasis models were established to assess the effects of BHB on the growth and metastasis of CRC-Oxa in vivo. Eight Oxa responders and seven nonresponders with CRC were enrolled in the study. Then, the serum BHB level and H3K79me, H3K27ac, H3K14ac, and H3K9me levels in tissues were detected. DOT1L (H3K79me methyltransferase) gene knockdown or GNE-049 (H3K27ac inhibitor) use was applied to analyze further whether BHB reversed CRC-Oxa resistance via H3K79 demethylation and/or H3K27 deacetylation in vivo and in vitro.

Results

Following BHB intervention based on Oxa, the proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT of CRC-Oxa cells and the growth and metastasis of transplanted tumors in mice were suppressed. Clinical analysis revealed that the differential change in BHB level was associated with drug resistance and was decreased in drug-resistant patient serum. The H3K79me, H3K27ac, and H3K14ac expressions in CRC were negatively correlated with BHB. Furthermore, results indicated that H3K79me inhibition may lead to BHB target deletion, resulting in its inability to function.

Conclusions

β-hydroxybutyrate resensitized CRC cells to Oxa by suppressing H3K79 methylation in vitro and in vivo.
Transcriptomic and free monoterpene analyses of aroma reveal that isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase inhibits monoterpene biosynthesis in grape (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Chen Tianchi , Xu Tao , Wang Jinnan , Zhang Tianye , Yang Jin , Feng Lixiao , Song Tiefeng , Yang Jian , Wu Yueyan
Published: June 2024

Background

Monoterpenes are among the most important volatile aromatic compounds contributing to the flavor and aroma of grapes and wine. However, the molecular basis of monoterpene biosynthesis has not yet been fully elucidated.

Results

In our study, transcriptomics and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to mine candidate genes and transcription factors involved in monoterpene biosynthesis between high-monoterpene and zero-monoterpene table grape cultivars. We found that monoterpene biosynthesis was positively correlated by the expression of five genes encoding 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase (VvDXSs), one encoding 4-hydroxy-3-methylbut-2-enyl diphosphate reductase (VvHDR), three hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthases (VvHMGSs) and one mevalonate kinase (VvMVK), whereas the expression of one isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (VvIDI) and one 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (VvHMGR) negatively correlated monoterpene biosynthesis. Of these genes, VvIDI was selected to validate its function in monoterpene accumulation through a transient overexpression experiment, and was shown to inhibit the biosynthesis of grape linalool and α-terpineol. Meanwhile, we found that a 64-amino acid extension sequence at the N-terminus can guide the VvIDI protein to target the chloroplast.

Conclusions

The findings of this study should help to guide future functional analysis of key genes as well as mining the potential regulatory mechanism of monoterpene biosynthesis in grapes and grape products.
Polypharmacy and drug interactions in older patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy: associated factors
Authors: Oliveira Rita F. , Oliveira Ana I. , Cruz Agostinho S. , Ribeiro Oscar , Afreixo Vera , Pimentel Francisco
Published: June 2024

Background

Polypharmacy in older adults with cancer receiving chemotherapy leads to increased risks of drug interactions, translating in potential hazardous health outcomes. This study aims to assess the prevalence of polypharmacy, drug–drug interactions (DDIs), and severe-drug interactions (SDIs) in older patients with cancer. Antineoplastic agents (ANAs) involvement and possible risk contexts (comorbidities with cardiac risk, and high-risk medications) were also analysed.

Methods

Observational study with older adults (≥ 65 years) diagnosed with cancer, who were treated with antineoplastic agents (ANAs); it was conducted in three hospitals from the north of Portugal. Data collection was obtained using self-reports and medical records. DDIs were identified and classified using Micromedex® software. Descriptive and association analyze statistics were performed. Statistical hypothesis tests with p value less than 0.05 were considered significant. All statistical procedures and analysis were performed with R version 4.1.3.

Results

We enrolled 552 patients. Polypharmacy prevalence was 88.40%; 76.45% and 56.16% of the patients presented with DDIs and SDIs, respectively. SDIs with ANAs were found in 21.20% of the patients. High-risk medications were associated with a higher risk of polypharmacy, DDIs, and SDIs. Polypharmacy and DDIs were higher in patients with hypertension or diabetes. SDIs were higher in patients with diabetes.

Conclusion

Polypharmacy, potential DDIs and SDIs were highly prevalent in older adults with cancer. A careful review of the medication administered is necessary to decrease it. These findings warrant further research to optimize medication in this population and decrease problems related to medication, which may lead to emergency room visits and hospitalisations, compromising patient safety and/or ongoing treatments.
Mortality in clostridioides difficile infection among patients hospitalized at the university clinical hospital in Wroclaw, Poland – a 3-year observational study
Authors: Drobnik Jarosław , Pobrotyn Piotr , Belovičová Mária , Madziarska Katarzyna , Trocha Małgorzata , Baran Mateusz
Published: June 2024

Background

In the last two decades, a significant increase in the number of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) cases has been observed. It is understandable to attempt to determine the factors that can predict the severity of the course of the infection and identify patients at risk of death. This study aimed to analyze the factors affecting the incidence and mortality of CDI in inpatient treatment at the University Clinical Hospital in Wrocław in 2016–2018.

Methods

Statistical analysis of data obtained from patients’ medical records was performed. Only patients with symptoms of infection and infection confirmed by laboratory tests were enrolled in the study. When analyzing the number of deaths, only adult patients who died in hospital wards were included. The quantitative data including laboratory tests, used antibiotics and Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) were assessed. Also, the qualitative data such as sex, year of hospitalization, occurrence of diarrhoea on admission to the hospital, presence of additional diseases, as wee ad the use of antibacterial drugs or proton pump blockers and ranitidine during hospitalization were analyzed.

Results

A total of 319 adult CDI patients (178 women and 141 men) were enrolled of which 80 people died (50 women and 30 men). The mean age of the patients was 72.08 ± 16.74 years. Over the entire period studied, the morbidity was 174 cases per 100,000 hospitalizations while mortality was 25.08%. The group of deceased patients was characterized by: older age (by 9.24 years), longer duration of hospitalization (by 10 days), reduced albumin levels (Rho = -0.235, p < 0.001), higher urea levels, use of more antibiotics, higher risk of malnutrition in NRS (Rho = 0.219, p < 0.001), higher incidence of sepsis, heart failure, stroke, hypothyroidism. Pneumonia was diagnosed twice as often. It was also shown that deceased patients were significantly more likely to take penicillin and fluoroquinolones.

Conclusions

In this study, the morbidity was lower, but mortality was higher compared to similar hospitals in Poland. CDI patients were characterized by older age, multimorbidity, extended hospitalization, and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Risk factors for death included advanced age, prolonged hospital stays, lower albumin, higher urea, malnutrition, and comorbidities like heart failure, stroke, pneumonia, sepsis, and hypothyroidism. Increased antibiotic use, particularly penicillin and fluoroquinolones, was associated with a higher mortality risk.
Association between time to surgery and hospital mortality in patients with community-acquired limb necrotizing fasciitis: an 11-year multicenter retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Lau Chi Ho , Ling Lowell , Zhang Jack Zhenhe , Ng Pauline Yeung , Chan Cheuk Yan , Yeung Alwin Wai Tak , Fong Ka Man , Chan Jacky Ka Hing , Au Gary Ka Fai , Liong Ting , Dharmangadan Manimala , Chow Fu Loi , Lam Koon Ngai , Chan Kai Man , Ling Steven , Lee Anna
Published: June 2024

Background

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare but potentially life-threatening soft tissue infection. The objective of this study was to assess the association between timely surgery within 6 h and hospital mortality in patients with limb NF, and to describe the trends in patients with NF, time to surgery and standardized mortality ratio (SMR) over 11 years.

Methods

This was a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of all intensive care unit patients who had emergency surgery within 24 h of hospitalization for limb NF between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2019 in Hong Kong. Timely surgery was defined as the first surgical treatment within 6 h of initial hospitalization. Appropriate antibiotics were achieved if the patient was given antibiotic(s) for all documented pathogens prior to or on day of culture results. The primary outcome was hospital mortality.

Results

There were 495 patients (median age 62 years, 349 (70.5%) males) with limb NF treated by surgery within 24 h of hospitalization over the 11 years. Appropriate antibiotic(s) were used in 392 (79.2%) patients. There were 181 (36.5%) deaths. Timely surgery was not associated with hospital mortality (Relative Risk 0.89, 95% CI: 0.73 to 1.07) but admission year, advanced age, higher severity of illness, comorbidities, renal replacement therapy, vasopressor use, and type of surgery were significant predictors in the multivariable model. There was an upward trend in NF diagnosis (1.9 cases/year, 95% CI: 0.7 to 3.1; P < 0.01; R2 = 0.60) but there was no downward trend in median time to surgery (-0.2 h/year, 95% CI: -0.4 to 0.1; P = 0.16) or SMR (-0.02/year, 95% CI: -0.06 to 0.01; P = 0.22; R2 = 0.16).

Conclusions

Among patients operated within 24 h, very early surgery within 6–12 h was not associated with survival. Increasing limb NF cases were reported each year but mortality remained high despite a high rate of appropriate antibiotic use and timely surgical intervention.
Spectrum and antimicrobial resistance in acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with pneumonia: a cross-sectional prospective study from Vietnam
Authors: Dao Duy Tuyen , Le Huu Y , Nguyen Minh Hai , Thi Thi Duyen , Nguyen Xuan Dung , Bui Thanh Thuyet , Tran Thi Huyen Trang , Pham Van Luan , Do Hang Nga , Horng Jim-Tong , Le Huu Song , Nguyen Dinh Tien
Published: June 2024

Background

Respiratory infections have long been recognized as a primary cause of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE-COPD). Additionally, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance has led to an urgent and critical situation in developing countries, including Vietnam. This study aimed to investigate the distribution and antimicrobial resistance of bacteria in patients with AE-COPD using both conventional culture and multiplex real-time PCR. Additionally, associations between clinical characteristics and indicators of pneumonia in these patients were examined.

Methods

This cross-sectional prospective study included 92 AE-COPD patients with pneumonia and 46 without pneumonia. Sputum specimens were cultured and examined for bacterial identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility was determined for each isolate. Multiplex real-time PCR was also performed to detect ten bacteria and seven viruses.

Results

The detection rates of pathogens in AE-COPD patients with pneumonia were 92.39%, compared to 86.96% in those without pneumonia. A total of 26 pathogenic species were identified, showing no significant difference in distribution between the two groups. The predominant bacteria included Klebsiella pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, followed by Acinetobacter baumannii and Streptococcus mitis. There was a slight difference in antibiotic resistance between bacteria isolated from two groups. The frequency of H. influenzae was notably greater in AE-COPD patients who experienced respiratory failure (21.92%) than in those who did not (9.23%). S. pneumoniae was more common in patients with stage I (44.44%) or IV (36.36%) COPD than in patients with stage II (17.39%) or III (9.72%) disease. ROC curve analysis revealed that C-reactive protein (CRP) levels could distinguish patients with AE-COPD with and without pneumonia (AUC = 0.78).

Conclusion

Gram-negative bacteria still play a key role in the etiology of AE-COPD patients, regardless of the presence of pneumonia. This study provides updated evidence for the epidemiology of AE-COPD pathogens and the appropriate selection of antimicrobial agents in Vietnam.
Effect of women empowerment on treatment seeking practice for sexually transmitted infections among women in Ethiopia
Authors: Abeje Gedefaw , Zelalem Meseret , Bogale Firmaye , Worku Netsanet
Published: June 2024

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are public health problems in Ethiopia. Women have a higher chance of acquiring STI. STI complications are more severe in women compared to men. Despite that, treatment seeking for STI among women is poor. Woman empowerment and gender related factors may be playing a role for treatment seeking practice for STI. However, there are no studies that assess the association between these factors and treatment seeking practice for STI among married reproductive age women in Ethiopia. Therefore, this analysis was designed to explore this association in Ethiopia.

Methods

This analysis used the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey (EDHS) data. The 2016 EDHS collected data about STI treatment seeking practice for STI among other variables. Data was analyzed using STATA 17.0. Sampling weights were applied to improve the representativeness of the samples. Descriptive statistics were computed to describe the characteristics of the women. Binary and multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to identify the association between treatment seeking practice for STI and predictor variables. Multicollinearity was checked using variance inflation factors before running the multivariable logistic regression.

Results

In this study, about 28% (95%CI: 20.87, 36.77) married reproductive age women with STI or STI symptoms sought treatment from the formal sector. Women whose husband attended secondary and higher education (AOR, 8.52; 95%CI 1.42, 51.21), and women with higher women empowerment scores (AOR 1.38, 95%CI 1.06, 1.81) had higher odds of treatment seeking for STI or STI symptoms. On the other hand, women who believe wife beating is justified had lower odds (AOR 0.32; 95%CI 0.15, 0.68) of treatment seeking for STI or STI symptoms.

Conclusions

Treatment seeking practice for STI among married reproductive age women in Ethiopia is low. The Ministry of Health and development partners shall conduct further research to identify barriers for treatment seeking practice. Gender variables (women empowerment and belief that wife beating is justified) were significantly associated with STI treatment seeking practice among married reproductive age women. STI prevention and control strategies shall include women empowerment and gender issues as essential component in STI prevention, treatment, and control activities.
An automated in vitro wound healing microscopy image analysis approach utilizing U-net-based deep learning methodology
Authors: Doğru Dilan , Özdemir Gizem D. , Özdemir Mehmet A. , Ercan Utku K. , Topaloğlu Avşar Nermin , Güren Onan
Published: June 2024

Background

The assessment of in vitro wound healing images is critical for determining the efficacy of the therapy-of-interest that may influence the wound healing process. Existing methods suffer significant limitations, such as user dependency, time-consuming nature, and lack of sensitivity, thus paving the way for automated analysis approaches.

Methods

Hereby, three structurally different variations of U-net architectures based on convolutional neural networks (CNN) were implemented for the segmentation of in vitro wound healing microscopy images. The developed models were fed using two independent datasets after applying a novel augmentation method aimed at the more sensitive analysis of edges after the preprocessing. Then, predicted masks were utilized for the accurate calculation of wound areas. Eventually, the therapy efficacy-indicator wound areas were thoroughly compared with current well-known tools such as ImageJ and TScratch.

Results

The average dice similarity coefficient (DSC) scores were obtained as 0.958$$\sim$$
∼
0.968 for U-net-based deep learning models. The averaged absolute percentage errors (PE) of predicted wound areas to ground truth were 6.41%, 3.70%, and 3.73%, respectively for U-net, U-net++, and Attention U-net, while ImageJ and TScratch had considerable averaged error rates of 22.59% and 33.88%, respectively.

Conclusions

Comparative analyses revealed that the developed models outperformed the conventional approaches in terms of analysis time and segmentation sensitivity. The developed models also hold great promise for the prediction of the in vitro wound area, regardless of the therapy-of-interest, cell line, magnification of the microscope, or other application-dependent parameters.
The association between self-efficacy, perceived social support, and family resilience in patients undergoing hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Safi Farzaneh , Areshtanab Hossein Namdar , Ghafourifard Mansour , Ebrahimi Hossein
Published: June 2024

Background

Self-efficacy of patients on hemodialysis is considered a main component of the successful management of chronic kidney diseases. The self-efficacy of these patients may be influenced by many individual and social factors. This study aimed to assess the association between perceived self-efficacy and social support by patients on hemodialysis treatment and the resilience of their families.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 183 patients and 183 families of hemodialysis patients in the largest hemodialysis center in northwest of Iran. Data was collected from July to December 2021 using chronic kidney disease self-efficacy, multidimensional perceived social support (MSPSS), and the Walsh family resilience questionnaire (WFRQ). The collected data were analyzed by SPSS software using descriptive and inferential statistical tests.

Results

The findings showed that the mean score of patients’ self-efficacy was 171.63 ± 38.19 in a possible range of 25 to 250. Moreover, the mean score of perceived social support was 62.12 ± 16.12 in a possible range of 7 to 84. The mean total score of family resilience was 119.08 ± 26.20 in a possible range of 32 to 84. Also, the results of the study showed a positive and significant relationship between the self-efficacy of patients with their perceived social support and the resilience of their families (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The results of the study showed that there is a significant relationship between patient self-efficacy and family resilience and social support received in chronic kidney patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therefore, it is suggested to consider practical strategies in the field of family resilience and social support to improve patients’ self-efficacy.
Role of OPG/RANKL/RANK/TLR4 signaling pathway in sepsis-associated acute kidney injury
Authors: Niu Xinrong , Wang Caihong , Li Hui , Chen Weilin
Published: June 2024

Background

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) has high mortality rates. The osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK)/Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathway and its potential role in SA-AKI pathogenesis remain to be fully understood. Herein, we addressed this issue using mouse models.

Methods

An SA-AKI mouse model was established using the cecal ligation and puncture method (CLP). Mice were grouped into sham, CLP model, CLP + recombinant RANKL, and CLP + anti-RANKL groups. Serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were measured to assess kidney function. ELISA was used to detect serum IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression levels of OPG, RANKL, RANK, and TLR4 in kidney tissues. HE staining was performed to evaluate the pathological changes.

Results

The CLP model group showed higher levels of Scr and BUN, indicating impaired kidney function in SA-AKI, compared to the sham group. Treatment with recombinant RANKL in the CLP + recombinant RANKL group reduced Scr and BUN levels, while anti-RANKL treatment in the CLP + anti-RANKL group elevated their levels. Moreover, the CLP model group had significantly increased IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 than the sham group, indicating elevated inflammation in SA-AKI. The CLP + recombinant RANKL group demonstrated decreased cytokine levels, whereas the CLP + anti-RANKL group showed an increase. Additionally, the histopathological evaluation revealed distinct kidney tissue damage in the CLP model group. Recombinant RANKL treatment reduced this damage, while anti-RANKL treatment exacerbated it. Mechanically, the mRNA and protein expression of RANKL were significantly decreased, while those of OPG, RANK, and TLR4 were significantly increased in the CLP model group and the CLP + anti-RANKL group. Interestingly, treatment with recombinant RANKL reversed these changes, as evidenced by significantly increased RANKL but decreased OPG, RANK, and TLR4.

Conclusion

The OPG/RANKL/RANK/TLR4 pathway is involved in SA-AKI pathogenesis. Recombinant RANKL treatment attenuates the inflammatory response and kidney tissue damage in SA-AKI, possibly via regulating this pathway. This pathway shows promise as a therapeutic target for SA-AKI.
Dynamics of HIV PrEP use and coverage during and after COVID-19 in Germany
Authors: Schmidt Daniel , Duport Yannick , Kollan Christian , Marcus Ulrich , Iannuzzi Sara , von Kleist Max
Published: June 2024

Background

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with oral emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil (FTC/TDF) proved highly efficient in preventing HIV. Since 09/2019, FTC/TDF-PrEP is covered by health insurances in Germany, if prescribed by licensed specialists. However, methods to longitudinally monitor progress in PrEP implementation in Germany are lacking.

Methods

Utilizing anonymous FTC/TDF prescription data from 2017-2021, we developed a mathematical model to disentangle HIV-treatment from PrEP prescriptions, as well as to translate PrEP prescriptions into number of PrEP users. We used the model to estimate past- and future PrEP uptake dynamics, to predict coverage of PrEP needs and to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on PrEP uptake on a national and regional level.

Results

We identified significant (p<0.01) decelerating effects of the first- and second COVID-19-lockdown on PrEP uptake in 04/2020 and 12/2020. We estimated 26,159 (CI: 25,751-26,571) PrEP users by 12/2021, corresponding to 33% PrEP coverage of people in need. We projected 64,794 (CI: 62,956-66,557) PrEP users by 12/2030, corresponding to 81% PrEP coverage. We identified profound regional differences, with high PrEP coverage and uptake in metropoles and low coverage in more rural regions.

Conclusions

Our approach presents a comprehensive solution to monitor and forecast PrEP implementation from anonymous data and highlighted that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly decelerated PrEP uptake in Germany. Moreover, slow PrEP uptake in rural areas indicate that structural barriers in PrEP care, education or information exist that may hamper the goal of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030.