bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity and Reliability of the Child and Adolescent Version of the Iron Intake Scale (CIIS) as an Educational Tool
Authors: Okabe Satoko , Ito Shinya , Kameta Akemi , Goto Aya
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Objective:

In Asia, 42% of young children suffer from iron deficiency anemia. Children have an increased requirement for iron intake because of growth and physical activity. Education plays an important role in anemia prevention and in ensuring children are aware of appropriate iron intake and the iron content of different foods. As a tool for this purpose, we adapted the adult version of the Revised Iron Intake Scale (RIIS) to create the Child and Adolescent Version of the Iron Intake Scale (CIIS), using illustrations to help children recognize the foods listed in the CIIS. We aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of this new scale.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire to examine the criterion-related validity of the CIIS. We used Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient to compare iron intake estimated by the CIIS with that calculated by the Brief-type Diet History Questionnaire (BDHQ-15y), which assesses respondents’ dietary habits over the past month and is standardized among Japanese children. The survey was repeated twice to examine reliability.

Results:

We found a moderate positive correlation for iron intake between the CIIS and BDHQ-15y, with a correlation coefficient of .52 (n = 258, P < .001). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was .718. The CIIS reproducibility test yielded a correlation coefficient of .67.

Conclusion:

Our results indicated that the CIIS was valid, reliable, and reproducible. We therefore believe that the scale can be used to improve education about iron deficiency anemia and thereby reduce anemia rates among children and adolescents.
Nurturing Minds With Nature: Incorporating Ecodaemonia Theory Into Comprehensive School Counseling Programs
Authors: Greenleaf Arie T. , Reese Ryan F.
Published: June 2024

The mental health needs of K–12 students have grown significantly in recent years, necessitating innovative approaches to support their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. This article explores integrating Ecodaemonia, a nature-based framework, into school counseling programs. We provide a guide for developing, implementing, and evaluating nature-based interventions, covering program creation, professional training, collaboration, tailoring interventions, and effectiveness evaluation. The potential benefits of incorporating nature-based interventions include improved attention and cognitive functioning, stress reduction, fostering a deep connection with nature, and promoting students’ mental health and overall educational experience.
Government-University Relationship in China’s AI Talent Development: A Triple Helix Perspective
Authors: Fu Tao , Ji Yonghan
Published: June 2024

Using the Triple Helix model, this study explores the government-university relationship in the context of China’s AI talent development, and their outcomes in terms of AI program deployment, enrollment and faculty. Their interaction may best be summarized as a model of government pull and university response, but with more support and autonomy for the Shuang Yiliu groups. Specifically, the state has maintained a dominant role as a policymaker in promoting the production of AI personnel and showed strong mobilizing abilities to integrate universities into the national AI strategy. Government guidelines outlined the roadmap for training top AI talent with a focus on Shuang Yiliu universities, universities with Shuang Yiliu disciplines, and interdisciplinary graduate students. Universities have responded with quick launch of AI programs, large enrollment and faculty with advanced training and overseas experience. A multi-level AI personnel training system has taken shape. With their privilege in financial and policy support and more autonomy, Shuang Yiliu universities, and universities with Shuang Yiliu disciplines will be the main producers of AI-concentrated graduate students. Theoretical contributions are discussed and policy and practice implications for addressing AI program distributions, talent development and retention, faculty and research, and AI as a discipline provided.
Gender and Attack Advertising in U.S. Senate Campaigns
Authors: Koval Nicole , Miller Kenneth M.
Published: June 2024

We examine if candidate gender influences the issues opponents use in advertising attacks against them in U.S. Senate campaigns. We find evidence that candidates consider partisan issue ownership and issue salience when choosing the topics on which to engage opponents. However, the gender identity of the opponent does not have measurable effects on the selection of issues mentioned in contrast and attack advertising. While highlighting the dominance of partisanship as a key concern in the formulation of attacks against opponents, this study also illustrates the very different issue landscapes faced by women running as Republicans and Democrats, where Democratic women are most likely to face attacks on the issues where both party and gender stereotypes place them at a disadvantage while Republican women are most likely to be attacked where partisan issue ownership puts them at a disadvantage but their gender identity gives them a reputational edge.
Reliability, Factorial Invariance, Latent Mean Differences of the Goal Orientations in Exercise Scale (GOES) and the Relation of Ego-Task Profiles with Resilience and Life Satisfaction in Ecuadorian Sample
Authors: Sanmartín Ricardo , García-Luna Marco A. , Cortell-Tormo Juan M. , Vicent-Juan María , Otañez-Enriquez Nelson , García-Fernández José M.
Published: June 2024

The Achievement Goal Theory has been commonly used in the literature and the relation between the goal orientation construct and aspects of athletes’ personality and well-being is an important element to be considered in the sports field. The objectives of this study were: (i) to confirm the reliability, factorial invariance and existence of latent mean differences of the Goal Orientations in Exercise Scale (GOES) in an Ecuadorian sample across sex; (ii) to identify the existence of subgroups of Ecuadorian students with different profiles of goal orientations to exercise; and iii) to determine the differences in resilience and life satisfaction among these profiles. A total of 597 Ecuadorian students from the Sports Sciences degree participated in this study. Confirmatory factorial analysis supported the two-dimensional (ego-task) GOES structure. The GOES has an adequate reliability and structural invariance across sex. Significant latent mean differences on the ego orientation subscale were found across sex but not in the task one. Cluster analysis identified three task-ego orientation profiles: (1) moderately high on task and low on ego; (2) low on task and slightly high on ego; (3) high in both task and ego orientation. Post hoc comparisons showed statistical differences in resilience between the three profiles and in life satisfaction between the profile 3 and profiles 1 and 2. The current study allows the possibility of using the GOES as an invariant and reliable scale in Ecuadorian sample and initiates the use of goal orientation profiles and their relationship with resilience and life satisfaction in the sports field.
Determining the Effects of Pre and Post Rafting Experience on Perceived Crowding: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Çetinkaya Güney , Güngör Abdullah , Orhan İlkay , Kaplan Merve , Ali Özçelik Mehmet
Published: June 2024

Identifying crowding norms is a crucial part of modern management frameworks intended to assist in protecting park resources and the quality of the visitor experience. Determining the factors affecting perceived crowding is a subject that has always been emphasized by park and protected area managers and researchers. Experience is typically regarded as having previously visited the area or engaged in an activity in prior literature. This study aims to analyze the potential effects of “experience” in determining crowding, based on visual research methods, from a perspective other than the two approaches in the literature. A quasi-experimental research design was applied to the study. Eleven images created with photography techniques were presented to 32 voluntary participants for data collection. According to the findings, participants had different perceptions about crowding before and after the activity, and at the end of the interviews conducted to understand the reasons for this difference, “enjoy” was determined as the main underlying cause. As a result, it is suggested that personal experiences about the activity should be considered in norm-determining studies.
Resilience in the Kosovo Context: A Qualitative Study of Young Adults
Authors: Hamiti Era , Kelmendi Kaltrina , Retkoceri Skord , Hamby Sherry
Published: June 2024

Most research on resilience has been conducted in North America and Western Europe, limiting our understanding of the processes of overcoming trauma in other cultural settings. This study explored the process of resilience through in-depth interviews with 19 emerging adults in Kosovo, a collectivist and post-conflict society. The study also included an examination of resilience among LGBTQ+ young adults in Kosovo. We used the resilience portfolio model as a framework, which in addition to being one of the few theoretical models previously applied to Kosovo resilience research, is also designed to be adaptable for different cultural contexts. The three domains of the resilience portfolio model, meaning making, regulatory, and interpersonal strengths, manifested in numerous ways in this sample. Participants described relying on some psychosocial strengths that are commonly identified in resilience research in other settings, such as social support and future orientation, as well as some factors, such as dignity, that have been less studied and may reflect more unique aspects of Kosovar culture. LGBTQ+ participants mentioned peer support as important, especially as many received limited support from family members. The process of coming out and activism were also highlighted as key strengths for LGBTQ+ participants. The results highlight the need to consider cultural settings in resilience research. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ communities in Kosovo by recognizing their challenges, traumas, and capabilities.
Money Laundering and the Crime Nexus: A Case Study in Malta
Authors: Mintoff Yana , Vella Mary Grace
Published: June 2024

This paper analyses the role of money laundering in contemporary financial capitalism and how it consolidates synergies between corporations, crime and corrupt governments. Through a case study of a fuel smuggling operation by an alleged criminal syndicate based in Malta, it examines how systems criminality operates across a continuum of legality and illegality driven by a strategic network of individual, corporate and state actors. It also examines the wider socio-economic, political and imperialist implications of money laundering on both the local and global spheres. As the rise in money laundering merges with the proliferation of other criminal offences, dissecting this crime nexus calls for increased synergies in transnational solidarities against capitalism, imperialism, and systems criminality.
The Utility of Machine Learning for Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Risk Assessment Scores
Authors: Mokashi Suyog , Keane Martin
Published: June 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has attracted great interest in the world of cardiology and cardiovascular surgery. For simplicity, AI has 3 distinct sectors: machine learning (ML), deep learning, and generative AI. In the case of ML, when calculating cardiovascular risk scores, ML algorithms analyze large, complex datasets (data mining) to predict the risk of morbidity and mortality.
Effectiveness of an Aerosol Inhalation Monitor in an Ambulatory Primary Care Pharmacy Clinic
Authors: Nixon Bianca , Axtell Sandra
Published: June 2024

Background: Poor inhaler technique can worsen respiratory disease. An Aerosol Inhalation Monitor (AIM) may provide insight into a patient’s capability of utilizing inhaled medications. Objective: The purpose of this quality assessment was to determine if the addition of the Vitalograph AIM device by ambulatory care pharmacists within an outpatient primary care clinic improves patient’s disease control through changes in pharmacotherapy. Methods: This was a retrospective, longitudinal, quality assessment review. Pharmacists met with patients for initial and follow-up appointments. A chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Assessment Test (CAT) or Asthma Control Test (ACT) and AIM assessment were performed and pharmacotherapy was subsequently adjusted. The primary endpoint was the change in initial to last recorded ACT and CAT score and was analyzed by Wilcoxon sign-rank test. Results: Twenty asthma and 17 COPD patients were included; 13 asthma and 13 COPD patients were included in the primary and secondary endpoint analysis. Initial median (interquartile range [IQR]) ACT score was 17 (14-23), first follow-up was 20 (18-24), and last recorded score was 22 (18-23). Initial median (IQR) CAT score was 17 (12-22), first follow-up score was 14 (6-20), and last recorded score was 11 (6-19). There was no statistical difference between initial CAT or ACT to first follow-up or last recorded CAT or ACT. Most patients continued their current inhaler regimen. Conclusions: This review demonstrates the positive effect pharmacists can have on respiratory disease management. The improvement in ACT and CAT scores suggests a positive, clinically significant outcome. Future research should evaluate pharmacist’s effect on asthma and COPD readmission rates.
Understanding the Dark Side of Power in Project Dispute Negotiation Settlement
Authors: Lin Sen , Cheung Sai On
Published: June 2024

Negotiating parties commencing a negotiation are likely to have different levels of intention to settle. Is this attributed to the power differential among them? Little is known about this. Applying power-dependency theory and dual concern theory, this study proposes a power-motive-intention framework, which is empirically tested using the structural equation modeling (SEM) method. The results indicate that negotiating parties with high perceived power could enhance their proself motive and suppress their prosocial motive, thereby stifling the intention to settle. To alleviate this dark side of power, psychological bonding agents, including trust and shared vision, are found to be effective alleviating agents.
Beyond BCMA: newer immune targets in myeloma
Authors: Tan Melinda S. Y. , Chen Yunxin , Smith Eric L.
Published: June 2024

The identification and targeting of B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) through immunotherapeutic strategies such as antibody-drug conjugates, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and T-cell engagers have revolutionized the care of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). These treatment modalities have improved the survival outcomes of patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM compared with previously established strategies and are moving into earlier lines of therapy. Despite their efficacy, the majority of patients eventually relapse, necessitating additional therapeutic targets for salvage. G-protein–coupled receptor class 5 member D, Fc receptor-homolog 5, and SLAMF7 are some examples of novel targets in development. This expanding armamentarium of immunotherapeutic agents will be crucial to address the unmet need for relapses after BCMA-targeting therapies, particularly antigen-negative relapses. The utilization of sequential T-cell redirective therapies including agents targeting different tumor-associated antigens and combination therapies appears feasible, paving the way for effective chemotherapy-free regimes. Deliberate consideration of treatment timing, preserving T-cell health, overcoming antigenic loss, and comprehension of the complex tumor microenvironment would be key to maximizing therapeutic benefits and minimizing adverse effects. This review summarizes novel targets in development for myeloma beyond BCMA, presenting pivotal safety and efficacy data derived from clinical trials when available and the considerations vital for navigating this expanding landscape of immunotherapeutic options.
StatiCAL: an interactive tool for statistical analysis of biomedical data and scientific valorization
Authors: Pace-Loscos Tanguy , Gal Jocelyn , Contu Sara , Schiappa Renaud , Chamorey Emmanuel , Culié Dorian
Published: June 2024

Background

In the realm of biomedical research, the growing volume, diversity and quantity of data has escalated the demand for statistical analysis as it is indispensable for synthesizing, interpreting, and publishing data. Hence the need for accessible analysis tools drastically increased. StatiCAL emerges as a user-friendly solution, enabling researchers to conduct basic analyses without necessitating extensive programming expertise.

Results

StatiCAL includes divers functionalities: data management, visualization on variables and statistical analysis. Data management functionalities allow the user to freely add or remove variables, to select sub-population and to visualise selected data to better perform the analysis. With this tool, users can freely perform statistical analysis such as descriptive, graphical, univariate, and multivariate analysis. All of this can be performed without the need to learn R coding as the software is a graphical user interface where all the action can be performed by clicking a button.

Conclusions

StatiCAL represents a valuable contribution to the field of biomedical research. By being open-access and by providing an intuitive interface with robust features, StatiCAL allow researchers to gain autonomy in conducting their projects.
Preliminary studies on the molecular mechanism of intramuscular fat deposition in the longest dorsal muscle of sheep
Authors: Shao Xuwen , Lu Xintan , Sun Xinming , Jiang Huaizhi , Chen Yang
Published: June 2024

Background

Intramuscular fat content is an important index reflecting the quality of mutton, which directly affects the flavor and tenderness of mutton. Livestock and poultry intramuscular fat content is influenced by genetics, nutritional level, and environmental factors. Key regulatory factors play a crucial role in intramuscular fat deposition. However, there is a limited amount of research on the identification and function of key genes involved in intramuscular fat content deposition specifically in sheep.

Results

Histological differences in the longest dorsal muscle of the small-tailed frigid sheep increased in diameter and decreased in several muscle fibers with increasing monthly age; The intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle of the small-tailed cold sheep varied with age, with a minimum of 1 month of age, a maximum of 6 months of age, and a minimum of 12 months of age. Transcriptomic sequencing and bioinformatics analysis revealed a large number of differential genes in the longest dorsal muscles of little-tailed billy goats of different months of age, which were enriched in multiple GO entries and KEGG pathways. Among them, the pathway associated with intramuscular fat was the AMPK signaling pathway, and the related genes were PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ; Immunohistochemical studies showed that PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ proteins were expressed in connective tissues, cell membranes, and, to a lesser extent, the cytoplasm of the longest dorsal muscle of the little-tailed frigid sheep; Real-time PCR and Western Blot validation showed that PPARGC1A and ADIPOQ were both expressed in the longest dorsal muscle of the little-tailed frigid sheep at different ages, and there were age differences in the amount of expression. The ADIPOQ gene was negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle, and the PPARGC1A gene was positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle; As inferred from the above results, the ADIPOQ gene was negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle (r = -0.793, P < 0.05); and the PPARGC1A gene was positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest dorsal muscle r = 0.923, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Based on the above results, it can be inferred that the ADIPOQ gene is negatively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest back muscle (r = -0.793, P < 0.05); the PPARGC1A gene is positively correlated with the intramuscular fat content of the longest back muscle (r = 0.923, P < 0.05).
Oral exposure to bisphenol S is associated with alterations in the oviduct proteome of an ovine model, with aggravated effects in overfed females
Authors: Mahé Coline , de la Riviere Marie-Emilie Lebachelier , Lasserre Olivier , Tsikis Guillaume , Tomas Daniel , Labas Valérie , Elis Sébastien , Saint-Dizier Marie
Published: June 2024

Background

Bisphenol S (BPS) is a substitute for bisphenol A in plastic manufacturing and, as a potential endocrine disruptor, may alter the physiology of the oviduct, in which fertilization and early embryo development take place in mammals. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of a daily dietary exposure to BPS combined with a contrasted diet on the oviduct fluid proteome using an ovine model.

Results

Eighty adult cyclic ewes were allotted to four groups (20/group): overfed (OF) consuming 50 µg/kg/day of BPS in their diet, underfed (UF) consuming 50 µg/kg/day of BPS, and non-exposed controls in each diet group. After three months, the mean body condition score, plasma levels of glucose and non-esterified fatty acids were significantly higher in OF than in UF females. The proteins in collected OF samples (50 µg) were analyzed by nanoliquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS). Overall, 1563 proteins were identified, among which 848 were quantified. Principal component analysis of the data revealed a clear discrimination of samples according to the diet and a segregation between BPS-exposed and non-exposed females in overfed ewes. Hierarchical clustering of differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) identified two clusters of 101 and 78 DAPs according to the diet. Pairwise comparisons between groups revealed a stronger effect of BPS in OF than in UF females (70 vs. 24 DAPs) and a stronger effect of the diet in BPS-exposed than non-exposed females (56 vs. 36 DAPs). Functional analysis of DAPs showed an enrichment in metabolic processes, immune system, cell response to stress, and reproductive processes.

Conclusions

This work highlights for the first time the important impact of BPS on the oviduct proteome, with larger effects seen in OF than UF females. These results, together with previous ones, raise health concerns for everyone and call for a greater regulation of BPS in the food industry.
Compliance with antibiotic therapy guidelines in french paediatric intensive care units: a multicentre observational study
Authors: Amadieu Romain , Brehin Camille , Chahine Adéla , Grouteau Erick , Dubois Damien , Munzer Caroline , Flumian Clara , Brissaud Olivier , Ros Barbara , Jean Gael , Brotelande Camille , Travert Brendan , Savy Nadia , Boeuf Benoit , Ghostine Ghida , Popov Isabelle , Duport Pauline , Wolff Richard , Maurice Laure , Dauger Stephane , Breinig Sophie
Published: June 2024

Background

Bacterial infections (BIs) are widespread in ICUs. The aims of this study were to assess compliance with antibiotic recommendations and factors associated with non-compliance.

Methods

We conducted an observational study in eight French Paediatric and Neonatal ICUs with an antimicrobial stewardship programme (ASP) organised once a week for the most part. All children receiving antibiotics for a suspected or proven BI were evaluated. Newborns < 72 h old, neonates < 37 weeks, age ≥ 18 years and children under surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis were excluded.

Results

139 suspected (or proven) BI episodes in 134 children were prospectively included during six separate time-periods over one year. The final diagnosis was 26.6% with no BI, 40.3% presumed (i.e., not documented) BI and 35.3% documented BI. Non-compliance with antibiotic recommendations occurred in 51.1%. The main reasons for non-compliance were inappropriate choice of antimicrobials (27.3%), duration of one or more antimicrobials (26.3%) and length of antibiotic therapy (18.0%). In multivariate analyses, the main independent risk factors for non-compliance were prescribing ≥ 2 antibiotics (OR 4.06, 95%CI 1.69–9.74, p = 0.0017), duration of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy ≥ 4 days (OR 2.59, 95%CI 1.16–5.78, p = 0.0199), neurologic compromise at ICU admission (OR 3.41, 95%CI 1.04–11.20, p = 0.0431), suspected catheter-related bacteraemia (ORs 3.70 and 5.42, 95%CIs 1.32 to 15.07, p < 0.02), a BI site classified as “other” (ORs 3.29 and 15.88, 95%CIs 1.16 to 104.76, p < 0.03), sepsis with ≥ 2 organ dysfunctions (OR 4.21, 95%CI 1.42–12.55, p = 0.0098), late-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia (OR 6.30, 95%CI 1.15–34.44, p = 0.0338) and ≥ 1 risk factor for extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (OR 2.56, 95%CI 1.07–6.14, p = 0.0353). Main independent factors for compliance were using antibiotic therapy protocols (OR 0.42, 95%CI 0.19–0.92, p = 0.0313), respiratory failure at ICU admission (OR 0.36, 95%CI 0.14–0.90, p = 0.0281) and aspiration pneumonia (OR 0.37, 95%CI 0.14–0.99, p = 0.0486).

Conclusions

Half of antibiotic prescriptions remain non-compliant with guidelines. Intensivists should reassess on a day-to-day basis the benefit of using several antimicrobials or any broad-spectrum antibiotics and stop antibiotics that are no longer indicated. Developing consensus about treating specific illnesses and using department protocols seem necessary to reduce non-compliance. A daily ASP could also improve compliance in these situations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: number NCT04642560. The date of first trial registration was 24/11/2020.
Assessment of refractive errors, amblyopia, strabismus, and low vision among hearing-impaired and deaf students in Kermanshah
Authors: Kangari Haleh , Majd Amir Etemadi , Broumand Mohammad Ghasemi , Tabatabaee Seyed Mehdi
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

Refractive errors, amblyopia, strabismus, and low vision are more common among children with hearing impairments in comparison with their hearing peers. Neglecting visual disorders can pose educational and social problems for these children. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of refractive errors, amblyopia, strabismus, and low vision among hearing-impaired and deaf students in Kermanshah.

Materials and methods

A total of 79 deaf and hearing impaired students within the age range of 7–20 years (mean age of 15.01 ± 2.72) underwent optometric examinations, including autorefractometry, retinoscopy, ophthalmoscopy, slit lamp, visual acuity measurement, and cover-uncover test. Those who needed further evaluation were referred to the Ophthalmology Clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital.

Results

Regarding the prevalence of refractive errors, 32 (40.5%) subjects had one or a combination of refractive errors, the most common of which was astigmatism (36.7%), followed by amblyopia (15.1%). The most common type of strabismus was latent strabismus (heterophoria) (88.6%), followed by exophoria (81%). Moreover, 3 (3.7%) cases had nystagmus. A significant difference was observed between the prevalence of amblyopia and the degree of hearing loss (P = 0.026), and no significant difference was detected in other cases.

Conclusion

As evidenced by the obtained results, refractive errors, amblyopia, strabismus, and low vision are more prevalent among deaf and hearing-impaired children compared to normal children because deaf and hearing-impaired children are not able to convey their vision problems and need to compensate for their poor hearing with an enhanced sense of sight, inattention to these disorders can present these children with serious educational and social problems. Therefore, eye screening examinations are of paramount importance in deaf and hearing-impaired children.
Comparison of the effect of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients in the intensive care unit
Authors: Oshvandi Khodayar , Lotfi Reza Faghih , Azizi Azim , Tapak Leili , Larki-Harchegani Amir
Published: June 2024

Background

Chlorhexidine mouthwash is a common oral hygiene product used in intensive care units, but it may have some adverse effects. Licorice, a natural herb, could be a potential alternative to chlorhexidine. However, the effect of licorice mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients has not been studied yet. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients.

Methods

This was a triple-blind clinical trial. The sample included 130 intubated patients admitted to an intensive care unit in Iran. The samples were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: A and B. In group A, the main researcher applied 15 ml of 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash after each brushing (twice a day for 5.5 days) and suctioned it after 30 s. In group B, 20% licorice mouthwash was used instead of chlorhexidine. The demographic information questionnaire and the Beck Oral Assessment Scale (BOAS) were completed by one of the nurses before and on the sixth day of the study.

Results

Finally, 60 patients in each group completed the study. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic variables or oral health before the intervention (P > 0.05). The oral health of patients in both the chlorhexidine and liquorice mouthwash groups improved significantly after the intervention (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in oral health between the two groups at postintervention (P = 0.06).

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that both mouthwashes exerted a comparable effect on dental and oral health. However, the chlorhexidine mouthwash showed a greater impact on the reduction of dental plaque and the thinning of saliva compared to licorice mouthwash. In essential cases, licorice mouthwash can be employed as an alternative to chlorhexidine.
Illuminating health aspects for immigrant Thai women in Swedish transnational marriages
Authors: Pongthippat Weerati , Östlund Gunnel , Darvishpour Mehrdad , Kijsomporn Jureerat , Gustafsson Lena-Karin
Published: June 2024

Background

Women who are migrants experience discrimination and face major risks, including sexual exploitation, trafficking, and violence, which affect their health and well-being.

This study explored critical health incidents experienced by immigrant Thai women in marriage migration.

Methods

A qualitative explorative approach with in-depth interviews was used. Forty immigrant Thai women who currently or previously had a Swedish spouse were recruited for the study. An inductive critical incident technique was used to collect and analyze the data as the first step. In a second deductive step, the Newman system model was used to categorize health dilemmas.

Results

The women reported 438 critical health incidents in five main areas. Psychological health dilemmas included emotional abuse, feeling overwhelmed due to family responsibilities and the stress of leaving family behind. Sociocultural health dilemmas included transnational family duties or not performing family duties. Physiological health dilemmas included experiencing physical violence and environmental, domestic or work accidents. Developmental health dilemmas included failing health, difficulties upholding the duties expected of a spouse in the target culture and caring for an elderly husband. Spiritual health dilemmas included critical incidents in which the women perceived themselves to have failed in their hopes and duties as a wife, which intensified their dependence on faith, particularly the Buddhist concept of karma.

Conclusion

Professionals in health and welfare practices in Thailand together with professionals in Western countries who work with women in marriage migration situations need to recognize the psychological, sociocultural, physiological, developmental, and spiritual health dilemmas experienced by these women. Furthermore, civil organizations that meet Thai women in foreign countries, such as Buddhist cultural associations, would benefit from the multicultural knowledge revealed by the present study. This knowledge can facilitate healthcare and welfare support for women in marriage migration situations.
Kigelia africana fruit fractions inhibit in vitro alpha-glucosidase activity: a potential natural alpha-glucosidase inhibitor
Authors: Muyenga Tumelo Akapelwa , Bamitale Samuel K. Dominion , Kibuule Dan , Sithole Simbarashe , Mukanganyama Stanley , Rudolph Carlen , Venables Luanne , Hattingh Anna C. , van de Venter Maryna , Ezeala Christian Chinyere
Published: June 2024

Background

Diabetes affects 75% of people in low-income countries, where conventional drugs like metformin are available, but newer drugs like alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are not accessible to most Southern African patients.

Aim

To evaluate the α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities of fractionated aqueous extracts of Kigelia africana fruit (KAFE) and their phytochemical fingerprints using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS).

Materials and methods

We studied K. africana fruit fractions' inhibitory effects on alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase using bioassay-guided fractionation, and analyzed their phytochemical profiles with GC–MS.

Key findings

Both the aqueous extract and ethyl acetate fraction of the aqueous extract exhibited a low dose-dependent inhibition of alpha-amylase activity (p < 0.0001). At a concentration of 500 μg/mL, the aqueous extract caused an alpha-glucosidase inhibition of 64.10 ± 2.7%, with an estimated IC50 of 193.7 μg/mL, while the ethyl acetate fraction had an inhibition of 89.82 ± 0.8% and an estimated IC50 of 10.41 μg/mL. The subfraction G, which had the highest alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity at 85.10 ± 0.7%, had significantly lower activity than the ethyl acetate fraction. The most bioactive fraction was found to contain 11"(2-cyclopenten-1-yl) undecanoic acid, ( +)- and cyclopentane undecanoic acid as well as the indole alkaloids Akuammilan-17-ol-10-methoxy, N-nitroso-2-methyl-oxazolidine and epoxide Oxirane2.2″ -(1.4-butanediyl) bis-.

Conclusion

The K. africana fruit fraction demonstrated significant alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity, while its alpha-amylase inhibitory activity was limited. This study suggests a potential natural alpha-glucosidase inhibitor and phytocompounds that could serve as leads for developing antidiabetic agents.
Accreditation of medical education in Brazil: an evaluation of seventy-six medical schools
Authors: Tempski Patricia , Girotto Leticia C. , Brenelli Sigisfredo , Giamberardino Donizeti D. , Martins Milton A.
Published: June 2024

Background

We present the first results of the Accreditation System of Medical Schools (Sistema de Acreditação de Escolas Médicas – SAEME) in Brazil.

Methods

We evaluated the results of the accreditation of medical schools from 2015 to 2023. The self-evaluation form of the SAEME is specific for medical education programs and has eighty domains, which results in final decisions that are sufficient or insufficient for each domain. We evaluated the results of the first seventy-six medical schools evaluated by the SAEME.

Results

Fifty-five medical schools (72.4%) were accredited, and 21 (27.6%) were not. Seventy-two (94.7%) medical schools were considered sufficient in social accountability, 93.4% in integration with the family health program, 75.0% in faculty development programs and 78.9% in environmental sustainability. There was an emphasis on SAEME in student well-being, with seventeen domains in this area, and 71.7% of these domains were sufficient. The areas with the lowest levels of sufficiency were interprofessional education, mentoring programs, student assessment and weekly distribution of educational activities.

Conclusion

Medical schools in Brazil are strongly committed to social accountability, integration with the national health system, environmental sustainability and student well-being programs. SAEME is moving from episodic evaluations of medical schools to continuous quality improvement policies.
TEX19 increases the levels of CDK4 and promotes breast cancer by disrupting SKP2-mediated CDK4 ubiquitination
Authors: Liu Huantao , Wang He , Zhang Hongyu , Yu Miaomiao , Tang Yu
Published: June 2024

Background

Globally, breast cancer in women is the fifth leading cause of cancer death. There is an urgent need to explore the molecular mechanism of breast cancer proliferation and metastasis.

Method

TCGA database analysis was used to analyze genes expression in breast cancer and normal samples and the association between gene expression and prognosis. Immunohistochemical staining, qPCR and western blotting was sued to detected gene expression. The cell function tests were conducted to investigate the effects of TEX19 and CDK4 with abnormal expression on cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, cell cycle, and colony formation. Bioinformatics analysis methods combined with CHX tracking experiment and Co-IP experiment were performed to screen and verify the downstream molecule and regulatory mechanism of TEX19. Besides, subcutaneous tumorigenesis model in nude mice was constructed.

Results

TEX19 was significantly upregulated in breast cancer, and the TEX19 level was related to tumor invasion and prognosis. TEX19 knockdown inhibited the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells, increased cell apoptosis, and blocked the cell cycle in the G2 phase. Besides, TEX19 suppressed the growth of tumors in the body. Mechanically, TEX19 upregulated the level of CDK4 protein, which depended on the E3 ubiquitin ligase SKP2. Specifically, TEX19 knockdown and SKP2 protein overexpression destroyed the stability of CDK4 protein and enhanced the ubiquitination of CDK4 protein. Additionally, CDK4 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration, and colony formation of breast cancer cells, and alleviated the promotion of TEX19 overexpression on the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cell.

Conclusion

TEX19 and CDK4 were upregulated in breast cancer, and TEX19 increased the level of CDK4 protein by influencing SKP2-mediated ubiquitination of CDK4, thereby promoting the progression of breast cancer.
Report of intraosseous intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia associated with an odontogenic cyst in the maxilla and literature review
Authors: Dutra Mateus José , Anbinder Ana Lia , Pereira Christyan Moretti , Chiliti Beatriz Afonso , Rocha André Caroli , Kaminagakura Estela
Published: June 2024

Intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH) represents an uncommon reactive endothelial hyperplastic proliferation. A 46-year-old man experienced increased volume in the right maxilla, elevation of the nasal ala, and swelling of the hard palate with a reddish hue for 3 months. Computed tomography revealed an expansive hypodense region and cortical bone destruction associated with an impacted supernumerary tooth and an endodontically treated tooth. Under the differential diagnoses of a radicular cyst, dentigerous cyst, and ameloblastoma, an exploratory aspiration and incisional biopsy were performed. This revealed the formation of blood vessels of various diameters lined by endothelium, forming intravascular papillae positive for CD-34. The definitive diagnosis was IPEH, and the patient was treated by embolization and surgery. Histological analysis confirmed the presence of IPEH associated with an odontogenic cyst. After 12 months of follow-up, no recurrence was observed. Also, we reviewed case reports of IPEH affecting the maxilla and mandible. Fourteen intraosseous cases were reported in the maxilla and mandible, with a preference for males and affecting a wide age range. Complete surgical excision was the treatment of choice, and recurrences were not reported. The pathogenesis of IPEH is controversial and may originate from trauma or inflammatory processes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an association of IPEH with an odontogenic cyst. The importance of IPEH in the differential diagnosis of intraosseous lesions in the jaws is emphasized, and preoperative semiotic maneuvers are needed to prevent surgical complications.
Co-occurrence of posterior chest wall pilonidal sinus with melanocytic nevus: a challenging presentation: a case report
Authors: Salih Abdulwahid M. , kakamad Fahmi Hussein , Muhialdeen Aso S. , Zahir Hardi M. , Saeed Yadgar A. , Ali Halkawt O. , Ahmad Sara N. , Hassan Marwan N. , Hassan Shko H. , Mohammed Mohammed Subhan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

To date, only a limited number of case reports have documented the co-occurrence of PNS and melanocytic nevus in the medical literature. This study aims to report an exceptionally rare case of posterior chest wall PNS in conjunction with a melanocytic nevus.

Case presentation

A 46-year-old female presented with a long-standing black lesion on her left upper posterior chest wall, that had become painful in the two months prior to presentation. There was a painful, dark blue, non-erythematous, and non-tender nodule on the left upper posterior chest wall. Based on the patient’s desire for cosmetic purposes, the lesion was excised totally with primary closure under local anaesthesia. Histopathological examination revealed intradermal melanocytic nevus with inflamed pilonidal sinus.

Discussion

The rarity of posterior chest wall PNS associated with nevi poses unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for clinicians. The distinct anatomical location, different from the conventional region, and the rare association between the two conditions may delay accurate diagnosis and result in mismanagement or inappropriate interventions.

Conclusion

The posterior chest wall PNS is another type of atypical PNS that is extremely rare. The association between PNS and blue nevus is a fascinating medical finding that deserves further investigation.
A second hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome in a patient with lynch syndrome and three primary cancers
Authors: Taheny Annmarie , McSwaney Haylie , Meade Julia
Published: June 2024

Current National Comprehensive Cancer Network ® (NCCN ®) guidelines for Colorectal Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment provide limited guidance for genetic testing for individuals with already diagnosed hereditary cancer conditions. We are presenting the case of a 36-year-old woman who was diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome at age 23 after genetic testing for a familial variant (c.283del) in the MLH1 gene. The patient had a previous history of Hodgkin Lymphoma at the time of familial variant testing, and she would later develop stage IIIa cecal adenocarcinoma at age 33 and metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma at age 35. The patient’s family history included a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at age 39, multiple second-degree relatives with colorectal, endometrial, and stomach cancer, and third and fourth-degree relatives with breast cancer. In light of her personal and family history, a comprehensive cancer panel was recommended. This panel found a second hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome: a likely pathogenic variant (c. 349 A > G) in the CHEK2 gene. This specific CHEK2 variant was recently reported to confer a moderately increased risk for breast cancer. The discovery of this second cancer predisposition syndrome had important implications for the patient’s screening and risk management. While uncommon, the possibility of an individual having multiple cancer predisposition syndromes is important to consider when evaluating patients and families for hereditary cancer, even when a familial variant has been identified.
In situ HER2 RNA expression as a predictor of pathologic complete response of HER2-positive breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy and anti-HER2 targeted treatment
Authors: Lien Huang-Chun , Lo Chiao , Lee Yi-Hsuang , Lin Po-Hang , Wang Ming-Yang , Kuo Wen-Hung , Tsai Li-Wei , Lu Yen-Shen , Hu Hsiang-Wei , Li Yu-Chia , Huang Chiun-Sheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) remain standard biomarkers for therapeutic decisions in human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancers (BCs); however, they are insufficient to explain the heterogeneous anti-HER2 response.

Methods

We aimed to investigate the correlation of in situ HER2 RNA expression (isHRE), using RNAscope, with HER2 biomarkers and the impact of isHRE on the pathological complete response (pCR) rates of 278 patients with HER2 IHC/fluorescence ISH (FISH)-positive BC receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy and anti-HER2 targeted treatment (NCTT).

Results

We validated HER2 RNAscope scoring as a semiquantitative method to determine isHRE and showed a positive correlation between RNAscope scores and pCR rates, with particularly different rates between patients with a score of 5 versus 1–4 BCs (66.7% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.0001). There were higher RNAscope scores and pCR rates in patients with HER2 IHC 3 + versus IHC 2+/FISH + BCs and HER2 RNAscope scores and pCR rates showed similar non-linear positive correlations with HER2 copy numbers and HER2/centromere 17 ratios. Moreover, in each HER2-positive IHC/FISH category, higher pCR rates were observed in patients with RNAscope scores of 5 versus 1–4 BC. Patients achieving pCR had BCs with notably higher HER2 RNAscope scores. Multivariate analysis identified HER2 RNAscope 5 as a strong pCR predictor [odds ratio = 10.865, p < 0.001]. The combined impact of multivariate analysis-defined pCR predictors demonstrated that a higher pCR rate was observed in patients with a score of 5 versus a score of 1–4 BCs regardless of the status of hormone receptor and mono-or dual anti-HER2 blockade.

Concusions

Our results demonstrated that high isHRE (RNAscope score 5) is a strong pCR predictor in patients with HER2-positive BCs receiving NCTT, highlighting the complementary role of isHRE in stratifying HER2 status in tissue. Such stratification is relevant to anti-HER2 therapeutic efficacy, particularly using the cutoff of score 1–4 versus 5.