bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commentary on From the War on Terror to the Moral Crusade Against Female Genital Mutilation
Authors: Abbas Sarah Mohammedahmed , Shervinskie Abbie , Clark Cari Jo
Published: April 2023

This commentary reflects on Dina Bader's article From the War on Terror to the Moral Crusade Against Female Genital Mutilation, in which the author chronicles the rise in state laws prohibiting female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) through a lens of femonationalism. Expanding upon Bader's thought-provoking article, this commentary adds additional reflection on the content of current state legislation and the need for more comprehensive laws to protect women and girls. Future legislation must be evidence-based and must be accompanied by a multisectoral approach to prevention and response in order to create an enabling environment for the elimination of FGM/C.
Effect of Chamomile on the Complications of Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Maleki Maryam , Mardani Abbas , Manoochehri Mahdi , Ashghali Farahani Mansoureh , Vaismoradi Mojtaba , Glarcher Manela
Published: April 2023

Background and objectives:

Despite significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, many people across the world still suffer from this chronic disease and its complications. Chamomile as an herbal medicine has gained an increasing attention for relieving cancer complications. This study aimed to integrate and synthesize current international evidence regarding the effect of chamomile on cancer complications.

Methods:

A systematic review was undertaken. Five online databases including Web of Science, PubMed [including MEDLINE], Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase were searched and articles published from inception to January 2023 were retrieved. All clinical trials and similar interventional studies on human subjects examining the effects of chamomile on cancer complications were included in the review and research synthesis. Relevant data were extracted from eligible studies after quality appraisals using proper methodological tools. The review results were presented narratively given that meta-analysis was impossible.

Results:

A total of 2240 studies were retrieved during the search process, but 18 articles were selected. The total sample size was 1099 patients with cancer of which 622 participants were female. Fifteen studies used an RCT design. Various forms of chamomile were used such as mouthwash, topical material, tea, capsule, syrup and aromatherapy massage. Chamomile effectively reduced oral mucositis, skin complications, depression, and vomiting and also improved appetite and quality of life among cancer patients.

Conclusion:

The use of chamomile as a non-pharmacologic and safe method can be helpful for mitigating cancer complications in patients with cancer. Therefore, it can be incorporated into routine care along with other therapeutic measures to reduce patients’ suffering related to cancer.

Systematic review registration number (PROSPERO):

CRD42022307887
Development and validation of a deep learning survival model for cervical adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Li Ruowen , Qu Wenjie , Liu Qingqing , Tan Yilin , Zhang Wenjing , Hao Yiping , Jiang Nan , Mao Zhonghao , Ye Jinwen , Jiao Jun , Gao Qun , Cui Baoxia , Dong Taotao
Published: April 2023

Background

The aim was to develop a personalized survival prediction deep learning model for cervical adenocarcinoma patients and process personalized survival prediction.

Methods

A total of 2501 cervical adenocarcinoma patients from the surveillance, epidemiology and end results database and 220 patients from Qilu hospital were enrolled in this study. We created our deep learning (DL) model to manipulate the data and evaluated its performance against four other competitive models. We tried to demonstrate a new grouping system oriented by survival outcomes and process personalized survival prediction by using our DL model.

Results

The DL model reached 0.878 c-index and 0.09 Brier score in the test set, which was better than the other four models. In the external test set, our model achieved a 0.80 c-index and 0.13 Brier score. Thus, we developed prognosis-oriented risk grouping for patients according to risk scores computed by our DL model. Notable differences among groupings were observed. In addition, a personalized survival prediction system based on our risk-scoring grouping was developed.

Conclusions

We developed a deep neural network model for cervical adenocarcinoma patients. The performance of this model proved to be superior to other models. The results of external validation supported the possibility that the model can be used in clinical work. Finally, our survival grouping and personalized prediction system provided more accurate prognostic information for patients than traditional FIGO stages.
Application value of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Liang Jun-xia , Zhang Yu , Xiao Chun-hui , Cao Shan , Tian Ying , Wang Na-na , Liu Chong
Published: April 2023

Background

Clinical value of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was investigated in this study.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 100 PCOS patients who received IVF-ET for the first time at Hebei Institute of reproductive health science and technology from January 2010 to June 2020. The patients were divided into Inhibitor group and Control group according to whether they were treated with or without TNF inhibitors. Next, the two groups were subject to comparison in terms of the days of gonadotropin (Gn) use, total dosage of Gn, trigger time, hormone level and endometrial condition on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection, the effects of two different regimens on controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups, including age, duration of infertility, body mass index (BMI), ovarian volume, antral follicle count, and basal hormone levels. Compared with the Control group, the days of Gn use and trigger time of patients in the Inhibitor group were significantly shortened, and the total Gn dosage was notably reduced. In terms of sex hormone levels on the HCG injection, the Inhibitor group displayed much lower serum estradiol levels while higher serum luteinizing hormone and progesterone (P) levels than the Control group. Notably, the high-quality embryo rate was also significantly increased with the use of TNF inhibitors. However, significant differences were not observed in endometrial thickness (on the day of HCG injection), proportion of endometrial A, B and C morphology (on the day of HCG injection), cycle cancellation rate, number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, and cleavage rate between the two groups. Importantly, the clinical pregnancy rate in the Inhibitor group was significantly higher than that in the Control group, but there was no significant difference in the biochemical pregnancy rate, early abortion rate, multiple birth rate, ectopic pregnancy rate and number of live births between the two groups.

Conclusion

Collectively, after application of TNF-α inhibitor regimen, superior overall treatment effect can be observed in infertile PCOS patients receiving IVF-ET. Therefore, TNF inhibitors have certain application value in IVF-ET in infertile women with PCOS.
The post-discharge coping difficulty of puerperal women in a middle and low-income tourist city during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Liu Yan , Peng Lan-lan , Zhang Yi-yuan , Tang Mei-yin , Tang Mei-qiong , Xu Yun-yun , Ma Zong-ying , Tang Yi , Gao Lingling
Published: April 2023

Background

Since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak, the incidence of mental health problems in perinatal women has been high, and particularly prominent in China which was the first country affected by COVID-19. This paper aims to investigate the current situation and the related factors of maternal coping difficulties after discharge during COVID-19.

Methods

General information questionnaires (the Perinatal Maternal Health Literacy Scale, Postpartum Social Support Scale and Post-Discharge Coping Difficulty Scale-New Mother Form) were used to investigate 226 puerperal women in the third week of puerperium. The influencing factors were analyzed by single factor analysis, correlation and multiple linear regression.

Results

The total score of coping difficulties after discharge was 48.92 ± 12.05. At the third week after delivery, the scores of health literacy and social support were 21.34 ± 5.18 and 47.96 ± 12.71. There were negative correlations among health literacy, social support and coping difficulties after discharge (r = -0.34, r = -0.38, P < 0.001). Primipara, family income, health literacy and social support were the main factors influencing maternal coping difficulties after discharge.

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, puerperal women in a low- and middle-income city had moderate coping difficulties after discharge and were affected by many factors. To meet the different needs of parturients and improve their psychological coping ability, medical staff should perform adequate assessment of social resources relevant to parturients and their families when they are discharged, so they can smoothly adapt to the role of mothers.
Effects of preoperative albumin-to-globulin ratio on overall survival and quality of life in esophageal cell squamous carcinoma patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Juwei , Lin Zheng , Zhou Jinsong , Huang Yue , Chen Siting , Deng Yuan , Qiu Minglian , Chen Yuanmei , Hu Zhijian
Published: April 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the effect of preoperative albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) on overall survival (OS) and health-related quality of life in patients with esophageal cell squamous carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Serum albumin and globulin were measured within one week before surgery. Multiple follow-ups were conducted among patients with ESCC in the study in order to assess their life quality. The method used in the study was a telephone interview. Quality of life was measured using the EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30, version 3.0) and Esophageal Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ- OES18).

Results

A total of 571 ESCC patients were included in the study. The results illustrated that 5-year OS of high AGR group (74.3%) was better than the low one (62.3%) (P = 0.0068). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis found that preoperative AGR (HR = 0.642, 95%CI: 0.444–0.927) are prognostic factor for patients with ESCC after surgery. In terms of quality of life, found that low AGR associated with increased postoperative time to deterioration (TTD) events in ESCC patients, and compared to low AGR, high AGR could delay the deterioration of emotional functioning(P = 0.001), dysphagia(P = 0.033), trouble with taste(P = 0.043) and speech problems(P = 0.043). After using the multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that high AGR could improve patients’ emotional function (HR = 0.657, 95% CI: 0.507–0.852) and trouble with taste (HR = 0.706, 95% CI: 0.514–0.971).

Conclusions

Preoperative AGR in patients with ESCC after esophagectomy was positively correlated with overall survival rate and quality of life after operation.
Association between diet quality scores and risk of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents
Authors: Zheng Xiaoyun , Wang Hong , Wu Huiwen
Published: April 2023

Background

This study examined the associations of diet quality assessed by Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015), Alternative Healthy Eating Index 2010 (AHEI-2010), Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) and overweight/obesity in children and adolescents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data of participants aged 2–19 years from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2018. The weighted logistic regression model was adopted to explore the association between diet quality scores and overweight, obesity in children and adolescents. Subgroup analysis was also performed based on sex.

Results

A total of 9,724 participants were included in children group (2–11 years old), and 5,934 were adolescent group (12–19 years old). All participants were divided into based on the BMI-for-age: underweight and normal, overweight and obesity groups. After adjusting for age, race, poverty-income ratio, maternal smoking during pregnancy and total energy, HEI-2015 and MedDiet scores were related to the risk of overweight in children, and only MedDiet scores remained associated with a decreased risk of obesity in children. MedDiet scores were associated with a decreased risk of overweight, obesity in adolescents, respectively, after adjusting age, sex, race, poverty-income ratio, cotinine, total energy and physical activity. The similar results in male participants were also found.

Conclusion

Higher MedDiet scores were associated with lower the risk of overweight and obesity, respectively, particularly for male children and adolescents. The higher HEI-2015 scores were also related to the risk of overweight in children.
Insights into SGLT2 inhibitor treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy: focus on the mechanisms
Authors: Huang Keming , Luo Xianling , Liao Bin , Li Guang , Feng Jian
Published: April 2023

Among the complications of diabetes, cardiovascular events and cardiac insufficiency are considered two of the most important causes of death. Experimental and clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of SGLT2i for improving cardiac dysfunction. SGLT2i treatment benefits metabolism, microcirculation, mitochondrial function, fibrosis, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, programmed cell death, autophagy, and the intestinal flora, which are involved in diabetic cardiomyopathy. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the mechanisms of SGLT2i for the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy.

Graphical Abstract
HIV and HCV among drug users and people living in prisons in Germany 2022: WHO elimination targets as reflected in practice
Authors: Stöver H. , Dichtl A. , Schäffer D. , Grabski M.
Published: April 2023

People who inject drugs (PWID) and prisoners are considered key populations at risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and/or Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). In 2016, the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) was implemented to eliminate HIV and AIDS by 2030 and the World Health Organization (WHO) presented the first strategy to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030 as well. Following the objectives of the WHO and the United Nations, the German Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) presented the first integrated overall strategy for HIV and HCV in 2017. This article discusses the situation of PWID and prisoners in Germany with regard to HIV and HCV five years after the adoption of this strategy, on the basis of available data and against the background of the most recent practice in the field. In order to meet the elimination goals by 2030, Germany will have to improve the situation of PWID and prisoners substantially, mainly through the implementation of evidence-based harm reduction measures as well as the promotion of diagnosis and treatment in prisons and in freedom.
Cancer and COVID-19: unravelling the immunological interplay with a review of promising therapies against severe SARS-CoV-2 for cancer patients
Authors: Leyfman Yan , Emmanuel Nancy , Menon Gayathri P. , Joshi Muskan , Wilkerson William B. , Cappelli Jared , Erick Timothy K. , Park Chandler H. , Sharma Pushpa
Published: April 2023

Cancer patients, due to their immunocompromised status, are at an increased risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Since severe SARS-CoV-2 infection causes multiple organ damage through IL-6-mediated inflammation while stimulating hypoxia, and malignancy promotes hypoxia-induced cellular metabolic alterations leading to cell death, we propose a mechanistic interplay between both conditions that results in an upregulation of IL-6 secretion resulting in enhanced cytokine production and systemic injury. Hypoxia mediated by both conditions results in cell necrosis, dysregulation of oxidative phosphorylation, and mitochondrial dysfunction. This produces free radicals and cytokines that result in systemic inflammatory injury. Hypoxia also catalyzes the breakdown of COX-1 and 2 resulting in bronchoconstriction and pulmonary edema, which further exacerbates tissue hypoxia. Given this disease model, therapeutic options are currently being studied against severe SARS-COV-2. In this study, we review several promising therapies against severe disease supported by clinical trial evidence—including Allocetra, monoclonal antibodies (Tixagevimab–Cilgavimab), peginterferon lambda, Baricitinib, Remdesivir, Sarilumab, Tocilizumab, Anakinra, Bevacizumab, exosomes, and mesenchymal stem cells. Due to the virus’s rapid adaptive evolution and diverse symptomatic manifestation, the use of combination therapies offers a promising approach to decrease systemic injury. By investing in such targeted interventions, cases of severe SARS-CoV-2 should decrease along with its associated long-term sequelae and thereby allow cancer patients to resume their treatments.
Proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles from tick hemolymph and uptake of extracellular vesicles by salivary glands and ovary cells
Authors: Xu Zhengmao , Wang Yanan , Sun Meng , Zhou Yongzhi , Cao Jie , Zhang Houshuang , Xuan Xuenan , Zhou Jinlin
Published: April 2023

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of cell-derived membranous structures that are important mediators of intercellular communication. Arthropods transport nutrients, signaling molecules, waste and immune factors to all areas of the body via the hemolymph. Little is known about tick hemolymph EVs.

Methods

Hemolymph was collected from partially fed Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides and Hyalomma asiaticum ticks by making an incision with a sterile scalpel in the middle (between the femur and metatarsus) of the first pair of legs, which is known as leg amputation. EVs were isolated from hemolymph by differential centrifugation and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Proteins extracted from the hemolymph EVs were analyzed by 4D label-free proteomics. The EVs were also examined by western blot and immuno-electron microscopy analysis. Intracellular incorporation of PHK26-labeled EVs was tested by adding labeled EVs to tick salivary glands and ovaries, followed by fluorescence microscopy.

Results

In this study, 149 and 273 proteins were identified by 4D label-free proteomics in R. haemaphysaloides and H. asiaticum hemolymph EVs, respectively. TEM and NTA revealed that the sizes of the hemolymph EVs from R. haemaphysaloides and H. asiaticum were 133 and 138 nm, respectively. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology enrichment analyses of identified proteins revealed pathways related to binding, catalytic and transporter activity, translation, transport and catabolism, signal transduction and cellular community. The key EV marker proteins RhCD9, RhTSG101, Rh14-3-3 and RhGAPDH were identified using proteomics and western blot. The presence of RhFerritin-2 in tick hemolymph EVs was confirmed by western blot and immuno-electron microscopy. We demonstrated that PKH26-labeled hemolymph EVs are internalized by tick salivary glands and ovary cells in vitro.

Conclusions

The results suggest that tick EVs are secreted into, and circulated by, the hemolymph. EVs may play roles in the regulation of tick development, metabolism and reproduction.

Graphical Abstract
The hypertension and hyperlipidemia status among type 2 diabetic patients in the community and influencing factors analysis of glycemic control
Authors: Zhai Zhiyu , Yang Yunou , Lin Guozhen , Lin Weiquan , Wu Jiagang , Liu Xiangyi , Zhang Shijia , Zhou Qin , Liu Hui , Hao Guang
Published: April 2023

Objective

To understand the prevalence of hypertension and hyperlipidaemia as well as the current status of glycaemic control and its influencing factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in the community in South China, and to provide recommendations for the prevention and control of diabetes.

Methods

Questionnaires, physical examinations and laboratory tests were conducted on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who participated in the National Basic Public Health Service Programme in Guangzhou in 2020. The chi-square test, t-test and multi-factor unconditional logistic regression analysis were performed using R 4.1.2 software.

Result

Among 127,423 type 2 diabetic patients in Guangzhou, 57,695 achieved glycemic control standards, with a glycemic control rate of 45.28%.In this study, the proportion of T2DM patients with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia together was 27.79%, The percentage of T2DM patients with hypertension alone and hyperlipidaemia alone was 28.34% and 20.53% respectively, and the rate of no complications was 23.34%. There was a statistically significant difference in the rate of glycaemic control between the different disease combination states (P < 0.05). The glycaemic control rate was 47.67% in diabetic patients without hypertension and hyperlipidaemia, 52.54% and 37.24% in those with combined hypertension alone and hyperlipidaemia alone respectively, compared to 41.80% in diabetic patients with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. After adjusting for all covariates, multivariate analysis showed that combined hypertension alone was associated with good glycaemic control (OR 0.817, 95% CI 0.791, 0.843, P < 0.001),when using comorbid T2DM as a control group, combined hyperlipidaemia alone, combined hypertension and hyperlipidaemia were associated with poor glycaemic control (OR 1.521, 95% CI 1.470,1.574, P < 0.001 and OR 1.250, 95% CI 1.211,1.291, P < 0.001), Subgroup analyses as well as multifactorial unconditional logistic regression analyses showed that patients with type 2 diabetes who were overweight and obese, smoked, drank alcohol, had a diagnosis of diabetes for ≥ 6 years, had fair or poor adherence and had a family history of diabetes had lower rates of glycaemic control.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that the co-morbidity of hypertension and hyperlipidaemia was high and prevalent among diabetic patients in Guangzhou. Moreover, glycaemic control of T2DM patients with hyperlipidaemia was lower than other diabetic patients. Obesity and overweight, poor lifestyle and dietary habits are also major factors affecting the treatment and control of T2D patients in this region. Therefore, comprehensive measures should be actively taken to control blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients by also incorporating lipid management into the community and strictly controlling lipid levels.
Time to surgery and myo-d expression in biceps muscle of adult brachial plexus injury: a preliminary study
Authors: Suroto Heri , Wardana Gestana Retaha , Sugianto Julius Albert , Aprilya Dina , Samijo Steven
Published: April 2023

Background

Brachial Plexus Injury (BPI) is one of the peripheral nerve injuries which causes severe functional impairment and disability. Without prompt treatment, prolonged denervation will cause severe muscle atrophy. MyoD, which is expressed by satellite cells, is one of the parameters that relate to the regeneration process in post-injury muscle and it is presumed to determine the clinical outcome following neurotization procedure. This study aims to understand the correlation between time to surgery (TTS) and MyoD expression in satellite cells in the biceps muscle of adult brachial plexus injury patients.

Methods

Analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital. All patients with BPI who underwent surgery between May 2013 and December 2015 were included. Muscle biopsy was taken and stained using immunohistochemistry for MyoD expression. Pearson correlation test was used to assess the correlation between MyoD expression with TTS and with age.

Results

Twenty-two biceps muscle samples were examined. Most patients are males (81.8%) with an average age of 25.5 years. MyoD expression was found to be highest at TTS of 4 months and then dropped significantly (and plateau) from 9 to 36 months. MyoD expression is significantly correlated with TTS (r=-0.895; p = 0.00) but not with age (r=-0.294; p = 0.184).

Conclusion

Our study found, from the cellular point of view, that treatment of BPI needs to be done as early as possible before the regenerative potential - as indicated by MyoD expression – declined.
Association between high cardiac output at altitude and acute mountain sickness: preliminary study on Mt. Fuji
Authors: Ebihara Takeshi , Shimizu Kentaro , Mitsuyama Yumi , Ogura Hiroshi , Oda Jun
Published: April 2023

Background

Acute mountain sickness (AMS) affects around 30% of people climbing Mt. Fuji, but its pathogenesis is incompletely understood. The influence of a rapid ascent to high altitude by climbing and summiting Mt. Fuji on cardiac function in the general population is unknown, and its association with altitude sickness has not been clarified.

Methods

Subjects climbing Mt. Fuji were included. Heart rate, oxygen saturation, systolic blood pressure, cardiac index (CI) and stroke volume index were measured multiple times at 120 m as baseline values and at Mt. Fuji Research Station (MFRS) at 3,775 m. Each value and its difference from the baseline value (Δ) of subjects with AMS (defined as Lake Louise Score [LLS] ≥ 3 with headache after sleeping at 3,775 m) were compared with those of non-AMS subjects.

Results

Eleven volunteers who climbed from 2,380 m to MFRS within 8 h and stayed overnight at MFRS were included. Four suffered AMS. Compared with the non-AMS subjects, CI in the AMS subjects was significantly higher than that before sleeping (median [interquartile range]: 4.9 [4.5, 5.0] vs. 3.8 [3.4, 3.9] mL/min/m2; p = 0.04), and their ΔCI was significantly higher before sleeping (1.6 [1.4, 2.1] vs. 0.2 [0.0, 0.7] mL/min/m2; p < 0.01) and after sleeping (0.7 [0.3, 1.7] vs. -0.2 [-0.5, 0.0] mL/min/m2; p < 0.01). ΔCI in the AMS subjects dropped significantly after sleeping versus before sleeping (3.8 [3.6, 4.5] vs. 4.9 [4.5, 5.0] mL/min/m2; p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Higher values of CI and ΔCI were observed at high altitude in the AMS subjects. A high cardiac output might be associated with the development of AMS.
Correlates of quality of life and mental health among youth experiencing homelessness in Iran
Authors: Malekmohammadi Neda , Mehmandoost Soheil , Khezri Mehrdad , Mirzaei Hossein , Tavakoli Fatemeh , Mousavian Ghazal , Safizadeh Mansureh , Iranpour Abedin , Sharifi Hamid
Published: April 2023

Background

Quality of life (QOL) and mental health among marginalized populations, including people experiencing homelessness in Iran, are understudied. We assessed the QOL and mental health status as well as their associated factors among youth experiencing homelessness in Kerman, Iran.

Method

We recruited 202 participants using a convenience sampling method from 11 locations, including six homeless shelters, three street outreach sites, and two drop-in service centers, from September to December 2017. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire that included QOL, mental health, demographics, drug use, and sexual behaviors questions. Scores in each domain were indexed with a weight of 0-100. The higher score indicated a higher QOL and mental health status. Bivariable and multivariable linear regression models were performed to examine correlates of QOL and mental health.

Result

The mean (SD) score of QOL and mental health were 73.1 (25.8) and 65.1 (22.3), respectively. Multivariable analysis showed that youth experiencing homelessness who were aged 25–29 years old (β = -5.4; 95% CI: -10.51; -0.30), and lived on the streets (β = -12.1; 95% CI: -18.19; -6.07) had a lower mental health score. Moreover, those who had higher education (β = 5.4; 95% CI: 0.58; 10.38), had no history of carrying weapons (β = 12.8; 95% CI: 6.86; 18.76), and had a higher QOL score (β = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.31; 0.50) had a higher mental health score.

Conclusion

This study highlights that QOL and mental health among youth experiencing homelessness in Iran are concerning, particularly among those who were older, were less educated, were living on the street, and had a history of carrying a weapon. Community-based programs, including mental health care and affordable housing are needed to improve QOL and mental health among this population in Iran.
LncRNA AC006064.4–201 serves as a novel molecular marker in alleviating cartilage senescence and protecting against osteoarthritis by destabilizing CDKN1B mRNA via interacting with PTBP1
Authors: Shen Panyang , Gao Jun , Huang Shaohan , You Chenan , Wang Haitao , Chen Pengyu , Yao Teng , Gao Tianyou , Zhou Bohao , Shen Shuying , Zhao Xing , Ma Jianjun
Published: April 2023

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent age-related disease in the world. Chondrocytes undergo an age-dependent decline in their proliferation and synthetic capacity, which is the main cause of OA development. However, the intrinsic mechanism of chondrocyte senescence is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the role of a novel long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), AC006064.4–201 in the regulation of chondrocyte senescence and OA progression and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

The function of AC006064.4–201 in chondrocytes was assessed using western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunofluorescence (IF) and β-galactosidase staining. The interaction between AC006064.4–201 and polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1), as well as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B), was evaluated using RPD-MS, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull-down assays. Mice models were used to investigate the role of AC006064.4–201 in post-traumatic and age-related OA in vivo.

Results

Our research revealed that AC006064.4–201 was downregulated in senescent and degenerated human cartilage, which could alleviate senescence and regulate metabolism in chondrocytes. Mechanically, AC006064.4–201 directly interacts with PTBP1 and blocks the binding between PTBP1 and CDKN1B mRNA, thereby destabilizing CDKN1B mRNA and decreasing the translation of CDKN1B. The in vivo experiments were consistent with the results of the in vitro experiments.

Conclusions

The AC006064.4–201/PTBP1/CDKN1B axis plays an important role in OA development and provides new molecular markers for the early diagnosis and treatment of OA in the future.

Graphical Abstract

Schematic diagram of AC006064.4–201 mechanism. A schematic diagram of the mechanism underlying the effect of AC006064.4–201
Factors associated with discharge destination from acute care after moderate-to-severe traumatic injuries in Norway: a prospective population-based study
Authors: Moksnes Håkon Øgreid , Schäfer Christoph , Rasmussen Mari Storli , Søberg Helene Lundgaard , Røise Olav , Anke Audny , Røe Cecilie , Næss Pål Aksel , Gaarder Christine , Helseth Eirik , Dahl Hilde Margrete , Hestnes Morten , Brunborg Cathrine , Andelic Nada , Hellstrøm Torgeir
Published: April 2023

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that the trauma population has needs for rehabilitation services that are best provided in a continuous and coordinated way. The discharge destination after acute care is the second step to ensuring quality of care. There is a lack of knowledge regarding the factors associated with the discharge destination for the overall trauma population. This paper aims to identify sociodemographic, geographical, and injury-related factors associated with discharge destination following acute care at trauma centers for patients with moderate-to-severe traumatic injuries.

Methods

A multicenter, population-based, prospective study was conducted with patients of all ages with traumatic injury [New Injury Severity Score (NISS) > 9] admitted within 72 h after the injury to regional trauma centers in southeastern and northern Norway over a 1-year period (2020).

Results

In total, 601 patients were included; a majority (76%) sustained severe injuries, and 22% were discharged directly to specialized rehabilitation. Children were primarily discharged home, and most of the patients ≥ 65 years to their local hospital. Depending on the centrality of their residence [Norwegian Centrality Index (NCI) 1–6, where 1 is most central], we found that patients residing in NCI 3–4 and 5–6 areas sustained more severe injuries than patients residing in NCI 1–2 areas. An increase in the NISS, number of injuries, or a spinal injury with an Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) ≥ 3 was associated with discharge to local hospitals and specialized rehabilitation than to home. Patients with an AIS ≥ 3 head injury (RRR 6.1, 95% Confidence interval 2.80–13.38) were significantly more likely to be discharged to specialized rehabilitation than patients with a less severe head injury. Age < 18 years was negatively associated with discharge to a local hospital, while NCI 3–4, preinjury comorbidity, and increased severity of injuries in the lower extremities were positively associated.

Conclusions

Two-thirds of the patients sustained severe traumatic injury, and 22% were discharged directly to specialized rehabilitation. Age, centrality of the residence, preinjury comorbidity, injury severity, length of hospital stay, and the number and specific types of injuries were factors that had the greatest influence on discharge destination.
Co-designing and pilot testing an infographic to support patients/families through the REMAP-CAP consent process: a mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: O’Grady Heather K. , Bhimani Zahra , Dalziel Sandra , Dolanjski Barbara , Sandhu Gyan , Santos Marlene , Smith Kathy , Murthy Srinivas , Marshall John C. , Kho Michelle E.
Published: April 2023

Background

Informed consent is critical to the ethical conduct of clinical research and requires understanding of a trial including its purpose, process, potential risks and benefits, and alternatives to participation. This can be challenging for complex trials, such as platform trials, and in high-stress environments, such as the intensive care unit (ICU). REMAP-CAP (randomized, embedded, multifactorial, adaptive platform trial for community-acquired pneumonia) is a platform trial which studies treatments for ICU patients with community-acquired pneumonia, including COVID-19. Patient/family partners (PFP) identified challenges during the REMAP-CAP consent process.

Methods

This is a patient-centred co-design study to refine and test an infographic to supplement current REMAP-CAP consent documents. Infographic prototypes were developed by patients, substitute decision-makers (SDMs), and researchers with lived experience in the ICU or with ICU research. We will apply a two-phase exploratory sequential, mixed-methods research design. In phase 1, we will conduct focus groups with ICU patients, SDMs, and research coordinators (RCs). We will use inductive content analysis to inform infographic refinement, to be pilot tested in phase 2. Phase 2 is a prospective study within a trial (SWAT) at ≤ 5 REMAP-CAP sites. We will collect self-reported data from patients/SDMs and RCs. The primary outcome is feasibility (eligible consent encounters, receipt of infographic, consent to follow-up, completion of follow-up surveys). Data will be integrated to understand if/how quantitative results build upon the qualitatively informed infographic.

Discussion

Phase 1 results will be used to co-design an infographic, directly informed by the perspectives of patients, SDMs, and RCs involved in ICU research consent discussions. Results from phase 2 will determine the feasibility of infographic implementation in REMAP-CAP consent encounters. These feasibility data will inform a larger SWAT to evaluate our consent infographic. If successful, use of a co-designed infographic to support REMAP-CAP consent documents may improve the experience of consent for patients, SDMs, and RCs.

Trial registration

The Northern Ireland Hub for Trials Methodology Research SWAT Repository (SWAT no. 176)
Responsiveness of the patient-specific Canadian occupational performance measure and a fixed-items activity limitations measure in patients with dupuytren disease
Authors: Lauritzson Anna , Eckerdal David , Atroshi Isam
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients with Dupuytren disease experience various activity limitations. Treatment aims to reduce finger joint contractures to improve hand function and activity performance. For assessing improvement different patient-centered measures have been used. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was developed as an interview-based outcome measure to detect changes over time in patients’ perception of their performance and satisfaction in self-identified activity issues. The 11-item disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (QuickDASH) scale consists of fixed items that ask patients to rate the difficulty in performing specific daily activities. Few studies have compared the responsiveness of these two types of patient-reported measures in Dupuytren disease.

Patients and methods

We included 30 patients with Dupuytren disease enrolled in a prospective cohort study of collagenase injection. We used the COPM (score range 1–10), the QuickDASH (score range 0-100) and measurement of finger joint contracture before and 5 weeks after treatment.

Results

Using the COPM the patients identified 107 activity problems (55 in self-care, 19 in productivity and 33 in leisure). The two most common activity problems were to wash self (21 patients) and to don gloves (19 patients). A clinically important improvement with 3 points or greater from baseline to 5 weeks was seen for performance in 77 activities (72%). The median COPM performance score improved from 4.4 at baseline to 9.0 at 5 weeks and the median QuickDASH score improved from 13.6 to 2.5. Responsiveness (Cohen’s d) for the COPM performance was 2.6 (95% CI 1.9–3.3) and for the QuickDASH 0.6 (95% CI 0.1–1.1).

Conclusion

The COPM had about 4-fold larger responsiveness than the QuickDASH, which supports use of an individualized measure when assessing treatment effects in Dupuytren disease.
Regenerative medicine owes to microsurgery
Authors: Shirbache Kamran , Nematian Hossein , Nabian Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2023

New findings in regenerative medicine have always been combined with numerous animal studies. Therefore, choosing the right translational animal model plays an important role in transferring as much basic knowledge as possible to clinical application in this field. Since microsurgery has many capabilities to perform precise interventions on small animal models and facilitates other regenerative medicine procedures, based on scientific articles, we believe that the key to the flourishing of regenerative medicine in the clinic is the use of microsurgery.
ÉTICA PROFISSIONAL: O CASO NO SETOR DE EVENTOS DO PALACE HOTEL
Authors: Passos Fábio Vinicius Araujo , Silva Jonathan Duarte da , Almeida Maria Adelaide Henriques de , Cunha Vanessa Cristina Revheim , Costa Jefferson Jorge
Published: April 2023

O presente trabalho apresenta reflexões quanto a dilemas éticos nomundo corporativo por meio de um caso de ensino. Narra-se, assim,a situação do novo Coordenador de Eventos de um hotel situadono bairro de Copacabana, na cidade do Rio de Janeiro – RJ; elefoi promovido e apresentou um comportamento fora dos padrõesestabelecidos pelas Normas de Conduta do EmpreendimentoHoteleiro. O objetivo deste caso de ensino é praticar situaçõesexperimentadas possíveis de ocorrer em meios de hospedagem eincentivar a discussão de estratégias de resolução de conflitos,trazendo para o ambiente acadêmico uma situação em que umgestor de um empreendimento hoteleiro está diretamente envolvido.Com isso, propõe-se uma discussão capacitada para que apareçamideias estratégicas que possam ser utilizadas na resolução dasituação revelada, mantendo a conexão e a sintonia do alunado comsituações e necessidades do mercado vivenciadas nas ocupaçõesno segmento hoteleiro. A concepção interdisciplinar da utilizaçãode casos de ensino no desenvolvimento de cursos de nível superiorde turismo e hotelaria contribuem para o diferencial de qualidadena oferta educacional. Sugere-se, enquanto agenda de pesquisa,que investigações futuras busquem identificar e problematizardimensões associadas a dilemas éticos no contexto de meios dehospedagem. Contribui-se, ainda, com estudos acerca dessa relaçãoque há entre ética e hotelaria. Ao final deste trabalho, foi sugeridaa ampliação da divulgação de casos de ensino na hotelaria em vistada escassez de trabalhos brasileiros que versam sobre esta temática.
PRODUÇÃO CIENTÍFICA SOBRE A CRIAÇÃO DE VALOR PÚBLICO: UM ESTUDO BIBLIOMÉTRICO NA BASE WEB OF SCIENCE (1998-2021)
Authors: Bonifácio Guilherme Henrique Pires , Costa Luana Aparecida da , Santos Lucas Maia dos
Published: April 2023

A criação de valor público pode ser compreendida como uma filosofia de gestão e uma estrutura de processos para se alcançar valores pretendidos; no contexto de administração pública, contempla as dimensões da capacidade operacional, do ambiente autorizador e de resultados sociais almejados. A presente pesquisa objetivou analisar como se configura o campo de pesquisas sobre esse tema, abordando perspectivas de tal campo por meio da exposição dos principais autores e trabalhos publicados. Foi realizado estudo bibliométrico e levantamento quantitativo descritivo, utilizando-se da plataforma Web of Science da Thomson Reuters. Os resultados demonstram que a base intelectual do campo versa sobre assuntos como prestação eficiente de serviços pelo governo, participação da sociedade, cultura organizacional avaliativa e percepções individuais no que tange a características emocionais do processo. A frente de pesquisas do campo versa sobre questões como análises sobre as práticas de gestão pública, ações de governança e estruturação de processos.
Development of nanocomposite materials for hydrogen storage
Authors: Περού Φιλίππο
Published: April 2023

Τα βοροϋδρίδια παρουσιάζουν ιδιαίτερο ενδιαφέρον για διεργασίες αποθήκευσης υδρογόνου σε χαμηλές πιέσεις, λόγω της πολύ υψηλής περιεκτικότητας σε υδρογόνο. Ωστόσο, η ιδιαίτερη σταθερότητά τους και οι υψηλές θερμοκρασίες που απαιτούνται για την διάσπασή τους δεν ευνοούν την πρακτική τους εφαρμογή. Μια ενδιαφέρουσα προσέγγιση για την κατάλληλη τροποποίηση των θερμοδυναμικών ιδιοτήτων τους σχετίζεται με την μορφοποίησή τους σε σωματίδια νανοκλίμακας μέσω περιορισμού σε νανοπόρους. Στόχος της παρούσας διατριβής ήταν η μελέτη των ιδιοτήτων αποθήκευσης-αποδέσμευσης υδρογόνου ευτηκτικών μιγμάτων βοροϋδριδίων, όπως LiBH4 – NaBH4 (LiNa) και LiBH4 – KBH4 (LiK), μετά την εισαγωγή τους (μέσω διήθησης τήγματος) στους πόρους μεσοπορωδών υλικών ανθρακικής βάσης. Παρατηρήθηκε ότι και για τα δύο ευτηκτικά μίγματα, η εισαγωγή τους στους πόρους άνθρακα τύπου CMK-3 και αερογέλης άνθρακα (CA-20) με διάμετρο 5 και 25 nm, αντίστοιχα, βελτιώνει την κινητική ενώ επιτρέπει και τη μερική αντιστρεψιμότητα της αντίδρασης αφυδρογόνωσης / υδρογόνωσης μετά από 5 κύκλους. Ενώ οι αντιδράσεις αφυδρογόνωσης των σύμπλοκων υδριδίων είναι μη αναστρέψιμες, τα σύνθετα συστήματα άνθρακα/βοροϋδριδίων παρουσιάζουν σταθερή αναστρέψιμη πρόσληψη H2 περίπου 3.5-4 wt% για τα σύνθετα LiNa / CMK-3 και CA-20 και περίπου 3 wt% H2 για τα αντίστοιχα υλικά με LiK. Η αντίστοιχη μελέτη σύνθετων υλικών με μη πορώδεις δίσκους άνθρακα (Carbon Disks, CD), επίσης έδειξε βελτίωση στις ιδιότητες απελευθέρωσης υδρογόνου από τα βοροϋδρίδια, υποδηλώνοντας ότι η επιφάνεια του άνθρακα μπορεί να δράσει καταλυτικά και να βοηθήσει την διάσπαση των βοροϋδριδίων. Ωστόσο, ο νανοπεριορισμός στους πόρους φαίνεται να παίζει θεμελιώδη ρόλο στην αντιστρεπτότητα της αντίδρασης υδρογόνωσης, τουλάχιστον για την περίπτωση του μείγματος LiBH4 – KBH4. Η συμπεριφορά αυτή μπορεί να σχετίζεται με έναν συνδυασμό φαινομένων όπως με την καταλυτική δράση της επιφάνειας του άνθρακα, τη νανοδιάσταση των σωματιδίων βοροϋδριδίου και/ή τον περιορισμό μη αντιστρέψιμων πλευρικών αντιδράσεων.
Perceptions of professional nurses towards the inclusion of spiritual activities in oncology practice in the uMgungundlovu and eThekwini Health Districts, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A quantitative descriptive study.
Authors: Sewkarran Vashni , Gumede Emelda Zandile
Published: April 2023

Background: Internationally the inclusion of spiritual activities has been well adopted into nursing care. Spiritual activities could be used as one of the coping strategies for cancer patients in times of emotional distress. The South African perspective highlights a huge gap regarding incorporating spiritual activities into oncology practice. Due to popularity and frequent use, the need for identifying the perceptions of professional nurse’s regarding the inclusion of spiritual activities in oncology nursing practice was vital.

Methods: The study followed a quantitative descriptive survey. Four health care institutions were purposively selected in the eThekwini and uMgungundlovu health district. Simple random selection of 89 participants that met the eligibility criteria was conducted. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data over a period of four weeks from 3rd January 2022 to 9th February 2022, followed by analysis using the SPSS, version 27.

Results: The findings revealed that professional nurses agree that spiritual care can be provided by including various spiritual activities into oncology nursing practice.  More than 80% of professional nurses believed in God. Activities like arranging visits by chaplains, showing kindness, cheerfulness, and reassurance were highly rated, exceeding 80%; however, activities like art and creativity were poorly rated, 32.6%. These findings are in line with the hypothesis of the researcher.

Conclusion: This study produced empirical evidence that spiritual care can be provided by including various spiritual activities in oncology practice to promote comprehensive nursing care. A module on spirituality should be included in the new oncology program to boost the nurse’s levels of confidence in spiritual care. The study will enhance the nurses’ awareness and expertise in providing a range of activities.