bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Variations in the Essential Oil Composition and Biological Activities of Wild Lavandula dentata L.
Authors: Labhar Amina , El-Mernissi Yahya , Ahidar Naoufal , Zouhri Aziz , Benamari Omar , Siddique Farhan , Bashir Maryam , Salhi Amin , Ahari Mhamed , Ibenmoussa Samir , Bourhia Mohammed , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , ELyoussfi Abdellah , Amhamdi Hassan
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Lavandula dentata L. (LD) is a well-known aromatic and medicinal plant celebrated for its abundant essential oil (EO) with applications in aromatherapy, perfumery, and traditional medicine. The chemical composition and biological properties of LD EO can vary based on factors like harvesting period, and cultivation location. Methods: Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was employed to analyze the chemical composition of LD. EO harvested in different periods (December, April, and July). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were assessed, and in silico analysis included absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity prediction and molecular docking. Results: The December EO exhibited high levels of eucalyptol, while April EO contained notable amounts of β-pinene, pinocarveol, and β-eudesmol. July EO was characterized by β-pinene and myrtenol. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant assessments indicated higher activity in December and April, attributed to eucalyptol, L- trans-pinocarveol, and β-eudesmol. Conclusion: The study highlights significant variations in LD EO's chemical composition based on harvesting period, influencing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In silico analysis supports experimental findings, emphasizing the potential therapeutic impact of specific compounds. This integration enhances our understanding of LD EO and its diverse applications.
Influence of the Physical Environment on Maternal Care for Culturally Diverse Women: A Narrative Review
Authors: Soman Devi A. , Joseph Anjali , Moore Arelis
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

This narrative literature review aims to develop a framework that can be used to understand, study, and design maternal care environments that support the needs of women from diverse racial and ethnic groups.

Background:

Childbirth and the beginning of life hold particular significance across many cultures. People’s cultural orientation and experiences influence their preferences within healthcare settings. Research suggests that culturally sensitive care can help improve the experiences and outcomes and reduce maternal health disparities for women from diverse cultures. At the same time, the physical environment of the birth setting influences the birthing experience and maternal outcomes such as the progression of labor, the use of interventions, and the type of birth.

Methods:

The review synthesizes articles from three categories: (a) physical environment of birthing facilities, (b) physical environment and culturally sensitive care, and (c) physical environment and culturally sensitive birthing facilities.

Results:

Fifty-five articles were identified as relevant to this review. The critical environmental design features identified in these articles were categorized into different spatial scales: community, facility, and room levels.

Conclusions:

Most studies focus on maternal or culturally sensitive care settings outside the United States. Since the maternal care environment is an important aspect of their culturally sensitive care experience, further studies exploring the needs and perspectives of racially and ethnically diverse women within maternal care settings in the United States are necessary. Such research can help future healthcare designers contribute toward addressing the ongoing maternal health crisis within the country.
Elsberg Syndrome With Albuminocytologic Dissociation - A Guillain-Barré Syndrome Mimic or Guillain-Barré Syndrome Variant?
Authors: Ferrara Joseph M. , Litchmore Courtney , Shah Smit , Myers Jeffery , Ali Khalil
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Elsberg Syndrome is a presumed infectious lumbosacral radiculitis, with or without accompanying lumbar myelitis, that is often attributed to herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

Case

A 58-year-old man presented with lower extremity anesthesia, ataxic gait, radiological evidence of radiculitis, and CSF albuminocytologic dissociation. Polymerase chain reaction testing of CSF confirmed HSV-2 infection.

Conclusion

A variety of presentations are reported within the scope of Elsberg Syndrome, potentially with distinct disease mechanisms. Delayed onset of neurological symptoms after resolution of rash and absence of pleocytosis raises the possibility that some patients meeting criteria for Elsberg Syndrome have a post-infectious immune-mediated neuropathy. We advise a lower threshold for PCR testing of herpes viruses in patients with acute neuropathy and albuminocytologic dissociation, particularly in cases with early sacral involvement.
Pacemaker infection at generator site by Mycobacterium mageritense: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Alhariri Housam Eddine , Kwayess Rola , Behlau Irmgard
Published: February 2024

We herein report an unusual case of Mycobacterium mageritense pacemaker infection at generator site in a 62-year old female with no pertinent past medical history. Pacemaker-related infections caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria are rare but can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Mycobacterium mageritense is rarely reported in pacemaker infections and is challenging to treat due to resistance to many antimicrobial agents. In our case, the patient’s pacemaker infection did not respond to standard treatment, leading to complete device removal. Our case highlights the challenges in treating Mycobacterium Mageritense, especially that our patient had a more resistant organism than those reported previously in literature. To our knowledge, such cases are infrequently reported in the literature.
Objectives for algorithmic decision-making systems in childhood asthma: Perspectives of children, parents, and physicians
Authors: Masrour Omar , Personnic Johan , Amat Flore , Abou Taam Rola , Prevost Blandine , Lezmi Guillaume , Gonsard Apolline , Nathan Nadia , Pirojoc Alexandra , Delacourt Christophe , Wanin Stéphanie , Drummond David
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To identify with children, parents and physicians the objectives to be used as parameters for algorithmic decision-making systems (ADMSs) adapting treatments in childhood asthma.

Methods

We first conducted a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews to explore the objectives that children aged 8–17 years, their parents, and their physicians seek to achieve when taking/giving/prescribing a treatment for asthma. Following the grounded theory approach, each interview was independently coded by two researchers; reconciled codes were used to assess code frequency, categories were defined, and the main objectives identified. We then conducted a quantitative study based on questionnaires using these objectives to determine how children/parents/physicians ranked these objectives and whether their responses were aligned.

Results

We interviewed 71 participants (31 children, 30 parents and 10 physicians) in the qualitative study and identified seven objectives associated with treatment uptake and five objectives associated with treatment modalities. We included 291 participants (137 children, 137 parents, and 17 physicians) in the quantitative study. We found little correlation between child, parent, and physician scores for each of the objectives. Each child's asthma history influenced the choice of scores assigned to each objective by the child, parents, and physician.

Conclusion

The identified objectives are quantifiable and relevant to the management of asthma in the short and long term. They can therefore be incorporated as parameters for future ADMS. Shared decision-making seems essential to achieve consensus among children, parents, and physicians when choosing the weight to assign to each of these objectives.
The politics of labeling TNPPB-OPM as terrorist: Explanation, process, and implications
Authors: Yunanto Sri , Damayanti Angel
Published: February 2024

This research aimed to determine the explanations, processes, and implications of the Indonesian government's controversial labeling of TNPPB-OPM as a terrorist group. The labeling reflected the strategy implemented by the government to move from purely military to law enforcement approaches. Despite the split amongst government agencies during the labeling process, it was carried out to legitimize security forces with the terrorism law, deal with prolonged violent conflict, and reject the extension of the special autonomy and security situation during XX PON in the two provinces in Papua. This research found paradoxical implications and although it effectively provided a security situation, it failed to stigmatize and stereotype the Papuan Freedom Movement negatively.
Racing With a Purpose: Sustainability in Formula E
Authors: Ross Walker J. , Pfahl Michael , Trendafilova Sylvia
Published: February 2024

This study examined the seasonal sustainability reporting of Formula E for its content, variation, and linearity. Formula E was chosen since it was built as a sustainable sport enterprise rather than one which integrated sustainability into existing operations and for the accessibility of its annual sustainability reports. Using an exploratory approach for content and variation, and the Green Waves of sport sustainability for linearity, eight seasons of sustainability reports from Formula E were collected and examined via content analysis. Findings revealed the major content areas for Formula E concerned event management, car design, and community engagement with these initiatives classified as internal or external efforts. Reports were inconsistent in their structure, language, scope, and focus. The Green Waves suggest that while some efforts progress, others may regress according to strategy or the initiative’s life cycle. Formula E is progressing overall in their sustainability efforts, but exemplifies the lack of an end point to sustainability efforts. It is suggested that better coordination could yield higher strategic success and recognition.
Social Media & Declining Trust: An Epistemic Challenge for Emerging Adults?
Authors: Sharon Tanya , Encarnación Matthew
Published: February 2024

The rise of social media coupled with declining trust in major social institutions (e.g., business, government) has arguably intensified the challenges young people face in developing their beliefs and identity. Our exploratory study used in-depth, semi-structured interviews with nineteen young adults (14 female, 5 male, 17 aged 18–23, and 2 aged 24–30) to explore how young adults navigate the diverging viewpoints and competing truth claims encountered from friends, family, and social media. A cluster analysis of interview responses revealed three groups: Relativistic Explorers, marked by high openness to views without judging them; Differentiated Committers, who displayed strong commitments to specific views or values; and Precipitated Explorers, who shared a common history of social and/or familial rejection, and thus an involuntary launch into belief exploration. Results underscore both the developmental challenges facing young adults in our modern, media-saturated society and some of the strategies they adopt to navigate the current epistemic landscape.
Recognizing Stereotypes and Their Impact on Health: A Transformative Learning Activity for Undergraduate Health Science Students
Authors: Hall Wendasha Jenkins
Published: February 2024

Stereotypes are simplified generalizations that act as mental shortcuts which help us understand the world. However, these oversimplifications fail to capture the diversity within groups and communities. This is particularly adverse in healthcare settings as stereotypes are cognitive frameworks from which implicit biases emerge—affecting how individuals and groups are perceived, evaluated, and treated. Specifically, stereotypes linked to race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality exert profound and detrimental influence on healthcare access, quality, and decision-making for marginalized populations. Thus, recognizing and understanding stereotypes are crucial for combatting health disparities prevalent in our society. Accordingly, it is essential that students receive instruction and training that allows them to understand the impact of stereotypes, acknowledge implicit biases, and advocate for equitable and unbiased healthcare for all. Health science instructors can facilitate this growth through the implementation of transformative education and learning. Transformative education is an approach to learning that aims to create profound personal and societal changes by fostering critical thinking, self-awareness, and social responsibility. The transformative learning activity presented in this manuscript seeks to enhance students’ understanding of stereotypes’ role in perpetuating health disparities and their impact on marginalized communities. By fostering critical reflection, open dialog, and collaborative problem-solving, the activity equips students to comprehend the multifaceted dimensions of stereotypes in healthcare and prepares them to address the challenges of an increasingly diverse and socially complex world. Through transformative education, students are nurtured to become competent healthcare professionals who champion equitable and unbiased care and bridge understanding and empathy across communities.
Discussing Sexual Harassment in the Classroom (or Online): An Interactive Exercise
Authors: Lewis Gabriella
Published: February 2024

This article introduces an engaging pedagogical activity tailored for undergraduate (or graduate) Organizational Behavior or Human Resources courses to discuss the topic of sexual harassment. Traditional-aged students are often unaware of what is considered gender-based harassment. Rather than simply relying on legal definitions, this exercise employs an interactive framework that facilitates the recognition of sexual harassment within workplace contexts. Students are shown a concise yet realistic video portraying two young people interacting at work, where the male character makes inappropriate advances toward the female character. The video content balances authenticity and sensitivity to ensure a conducive learning environment without creating discomfort among participants. The follow-up questions and discussion encourage the exchange of diverse viewpoints concerning the portrayed behaviors of the characters. Upon the completion of this immersive exercise, students will be equipped with an increased ability to identify and address instances of sexual harassment within organizational settings.
An Isolated Midsubstance ACL Tear Repaired With the BEAR System
Authors: Szukics Patrick F. , Fliegel Brian E. , Baker William F. , Popper Hannah , McMillan Sean
Published: February 2024

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repairs, once widely abandoned due to historically high failure rates, have recently regained interest with the development of the bridge-enhanced ACL repair (BEAR) implant, a novel arthroscopic technique that uses a resorbable protein-based implant combined with autologous blood to primarily repair a midsubstance ACL tear. This technical note presents a step-by-step surgical method for performing an isolated midsubstance ACL repair using the BEAR implant.

Indications:

The BEAR implant is indicated for skeletally mature patients at least 14 years of age with a complete rupture of the ACL, confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The complete ACL tear must have an attached stump to the tibia.

Technique Description:

A diagnostic arthroscopy is used to confirm complete rupture of the ACL and presence of residual tibial stump. A self-retrieving suture passage device is used to whipstitch a total of 6 passes with #2 Vicryl suture from distal to proximal through the residual stump. A notchplasty followed by femoral and tibial tunnels is created in a standard fashion. An Endobutton, soaked in a bacitracin solution, is then loaded with the sutures that were previously passed through the residual ACL stump and then through the femoral tunnel and cinched down to bone. The 4 suture ends that are coming from the Endobutton are then passed through the BEAR implant with the use of a Keith needle and shuttled through the tibial tunnel. The BEAR implant is hydrated with 15 cc of the patient's blood and is shuttled through the anteromedial portal with the knee in full extension. The 4 tibial sutures passed through the graft and tibial tunnel are passed, and tensioned to the proximal tibial with a second Endobutton. Standard closure and dressings are applied.

Results:

This new surgical implant and technique have shown noninferiority to ACL autograft reconstruction with respect to the International Knee Documentation Committee and anteroposterior laxity, with improved hamstring strength and decreased incidence of contralateral ACL tears at 2 years postoperative.

Discussion/Conclusion:

While initial data remain promising, future long-term designed studies are needed to determine the clinical efficacy of the BEAR technique, particularly comparing itself with bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft ACL reconstruction.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Direct anterior approach with conventional instruments versus robotic posterolateral approach in elective total hip replacement for primary osteoarthritis: a case–control study
Authors: Alessio-Mazzola Mattia , Colombo Pietro , Barducci Niccolo’ , Ghezzi Elena , Zagra Luigi , Caldora Patrizio , Ometti Marco , Placella Giacomo , Salini Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Background

The purpose of this study is to compare peri-operative and short-term outcomes in patients who underwent elective total hip replacement (THA) for primary osteoarthritis (OA) with direct anterior approach (DAA) versus a pair-matched cohort of patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA with posterolateral approach.

Materials and methods

Data from consecutive patients who underwent elective hip replacement from 2021 to 2023 for primary OA were retrospectively retrieved and divided into two groups: the DAA group, who underwent THA with the DAA approach using conventional instruments, and the robotic posterolateral (R-PL group), who underwent robot arm-assisted THA with the posterolateral approach. Comparative assessed outcomes were: operative time, radiographical implant positioning, intake of rescue analgesics, blood loss, transfusion rate, leg length discrepancy and functional outcomes (Harris hip score and forgotten joint score).

Results

A total of 100 pair-matched patients were retrieved with a mean age of 66.7 ± 10.7 (range: 32–85) years and a mean follow-up of 12.8 ± 3.6 (range: 7–24) months. No differences in patients’ characteristics were detected. Patients in the R-PL group required less rescue tramadol (p > 0.001), ketorolac (p = 0.028) and acetaminophen (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the operative time between (MD = 5.0 min; p = 0.071). Patients in the DAA group had significantly lower Hb levels at day 1 (p = 0.002) without significant differences in transfusion rate (p = 0.283). Patients in the R-PL group had shorter length of stay (LOS) with a mean difference of 1.8 days [p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4–2.3]. No difference in clinical outcomes was found [leg length discrepancy (LLD), p = 0.572; HHS, p = 0.558; forgotten joint score (FJS), p = 0.629]. No radiographical differences were measured in cup inclination (MD = 2.0°, p = 0.069), malpositioning [odd ratio (OR) = 0.2; p = 0.141], stem alignment (OR = 0.3; p = 0.485) and stem sizing (OR = 1.5; p = 1.000). There was no difference in complication rate except for lateral femoral cutaneous nerve damage, which was higher in DAA group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

R-PL and DAA THA had comparable short-term clinical and radiological outcomes along with similar complication rates. The R-PL group showed significantly lower Hb drop, rescue analgesic consumption and shorter LOS. This is a preliminary study and no strong recommendation can be provided. Further prospective randomized trials are requested to further investigate the cost-effectiveness of robotic surgery in THA.

Level of evidence

Level IV, case–control study.
Data notes on the proteomics of Dendrobium huoshanense under pb treatment
Authors: Dai Jun , Zhang Yingyu , Zhang Yunpeng , Wang Yan , Ding Xiaoyuan , Song Cheng
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Pb stress has a negative impact on plant growth by interfering with photosynthesis and releasing reactive oxygen species, causing major risks such as heavy metal ion accumulation in the soil matrix. A proteomics experiment was conducted to determine whether protein levels of Dendrobium huoshanense changed in response to Pb stress seven to fifteen days after being sprayed with a 200 mg/L Pb (NO3)2 solution. The proteomic data we gathered provides a model for investigations into the mechanisms underlying Dendrobium plant resistance to heavy metal stress.

Data description

A label-free quantitative proteomics approach was employed to examine the variations in protein expression levels of D. huoshanense at different times of Pb(NO3)2 treatment. We submitted the raw data obtained from these proteomics sequencing experiments to the ProteomeXchange database with the accession number PXD047050. 63,194 mass spectra in total were compared after being imported into the Proteome Discoverer software for database search. A total of 12,402 spectral peptides were identified with a confidence level exceeding 99%, which resulted in the identification of 2,449 significantly differential proteins. These proteins can be utilized for screening, functional annotation, and enrichment analysis of differentially expressed proteins before and after heavy metal treatment experiments.
Dyads of GGC and GCC form hotspot colonies that coincide with the evolution of human and other great apes
Authors: Arabfard M. , Tajeddin N. , Alizadeh S. , Salesi M. , Bayat H. , Khorram Khorshid H. R. , Khamse S. , Delbari A. , Ohadi M.
Published: February 2024

Background

GGC and GCC short tandem repeats (STRs) are of various evolutionary, biological, and pathological implications. However, the fundamental two-repeats (dyads) of these STRs are widely unexplored.

Results

On a genome-wide scale, we mapped (GGC)2 and (GCC)2 dyads in human, and found monumental colonies (distance between each dyad < 500 bp) of extraordinary density, and in some instances periodicity. The largest (GCC)2 and (GGC)2 colonies were intergenic, homogeneous, and human-specific, consisting of 219 (GCC)2 on chromosome 2 (probability < 1.545E-219) and 70 (GGC)2 on chromosome 9 (probability = 1.809E-148). We also found that several colonies were shared in other great apes, and directionally increased in density and complexity in human, such as a colony of 99 (GCC)2 on chromosome 20, that specifically expanded in great apes, and reached maximum complexity in human (probability 1.545E-220). Numerous other colonies of evolutionary relevance in human were detected in other largely overlooked regions of the genome, such as chromosome Y and pseudogenes. Several of the genes containing or nearest to those colonies were divergently expressed in human.

Conclusion

In conclusion, (GCC)2 and (GGC)2 form unprecedented genomic colonies that coincide with the evolution of human and other great apes. The extent of the genomic rearrangements leading to those colonies support overlooked recombination hotspots, shared across great apes. The identified colonies deserve to be studied in mechanistic, evolutionary, and functional platforms.
Genome-wide analysis of the peanut CaM/CML gene family reveals that the AhCML69 gene is associated with resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum
Authors: Yang Dong , Chen Ting , Wu Yushuang , Tang Huiquan , Yu Junyi , Dai Xiaoqiu , Zheng Yixiong , Wan Xiaorong , Yang Yong , Tan Xiaodan
Published: February 2024

Background

Calmodulins (CaMs)/CaM-like proteins (CMLs) are crucial Ca2+-binding sensors that can decode and transduce Ca2+ signals during plant development and in response to various stimuli. The CaM/CML gene family has been characterized in many plant species, but this family has not yet been characterized and analyzed in peanut, especially for its functions in response to Ralstonia solanacearum. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis to analyze the CaM/CML genes and their functions in resistance to R. solanacearum.

Results

Here, 67, 72, and 214 CaM/CML genes were identified from Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaensis, and Arachis hypogaea, respectively. The genes were divided into nine subgroups (Groups I-IX) with relatively conserved exon‒intron structures and motif compositions. Gene duplication, which included whole-genome duplication, tandem repeats, scattered repeats, and unconnected repeats, produced approximately 81 pairs of homologous genes in the AhCaM/CML gene family. Allopolyploidization was the main reason for the greater number of AhCaM/CML members. The nonsynonymous (Ka) versus synonymous (Ks) substitution rates (less than 1.0) suggested that all homologous pairs underwent intensive purifying selection pressure during evolution. AhCML69 was constitutively expressed in different tissues of peanut plants and was involved in the response to R. solanacearum infection. The AhCML69 protein was localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Transient overexpression of AhCML69 in tobacco leaves increased resistance to R. solanacearum infection and induced the expression of defense-related genes, suggesting that AhCML69 is a positive regulator of disease resistance.

Conclusions

This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the AhCaM/CML gene family and potential genetic resources for the molecular design and breeding of peanut bacterial wilt resistance.
A flowchart for adequate controls in virus-based monosynaptic tracing experiments identified Cre-independent leakage of the TVA receptor in RΦGT mice
Authors: Velica Anna , Kullander Klas
Published: February 2024

Background

A pseudotyped modified rabies virus lacking the rabies glycoprotein (G-protein), which is crucial for transsynaptic spread, can be used for monosynaptic retrograde tracing. By coupling the pseudotyped virus with transgene expression of the G-protein and the avian leukosis and sarcoma virus subgroup A receptor (TVA), which is necessary for cell entry of the virus, researchers can investigate specific neuronal populations. Responder mouse lines, like the RΦGT mouse line, carry the genes encoding the G-protein and TVA under Cre-dependent expression. These mouse lines are valuable tools because they reduce the number of viral injections needed compared to when using helper viruses. Since RΦGT mice do not express Cre themselves, introducing the pseudotyped rabies virus into their brain should not result in viral cell entry or spread.

Results

We present a straightforward flowchart for adequate controls in tracing experiments, which we employed to demonstrate Cre-independent expression of TVA in RΦGT mice.

Conclusions

Our observations revealed TVA leakage, indicating that RΦGT mice should be used with caution for transgene expression of TVA. Inaccurate tracing outcomes may occur if TVA is expressed in the absence of Cre since background leakage leads to nonspecific cell entry. Moreover, conducting appropriate control experiments can identify the source of potential caveats in virus-based neuronal tracing experiments.
Exogenous application of sulfur-rich thiourea (STU) to alleviate the adverse effects of cobalt stress in wheat
Authors: Zahid Aiman , ul din Kaleem , Ahmad Muhamad , Hayat Umer , Zulfiqar Usman , Askri Syed Muhammad Hassan , Anjum Muhammad Zohaib , Maqsood Muhammad Faisal , Aijaz Nazish , Chaudhary Talha , Ali Hayssam M.
Published: February 2024

Heavy metal stress affects crop growth and yields as wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth and development are negatively affected under heavy metal stress. The study examined the effect of cobalt chloride (CoCl2) stress on wheat growth and development. To alleviate this problem, a pot experiment was done to analyze the role of sulfur-rich thiourea (STU) in accelerating the defense system of wheat plants against cobalt toxicity. The experimental treatments were, i) Heavy metal stress (a) control and (b) Cobalt stress (300 µM), ii) STU foliar applications; (a) control and (b) 500 µM single dose was applied after seven days of stress, and iii) Wheat varieties (a) FSD-2008 and (b) Zincol-2016. The results revealed that cobalt stress decreased chlorophyll a by 10%, chlorophyll b by 16%, and carotenoids by 5% while foliar application of STU increased these photosynthetic pigments by 16%, 15%, and 15% respectively under stress conditions as in contrast to control. In addition, cobalt stress enhances hydrogen peroxide production by 11% and malondialdehyde (MDA) by 10%. In comparison, STU applications at 500 µM reduced the production of these reactive oxygen species by 5% and by 20% by up-regulating the activities of antioxidants. Results have revealed that the activities of SOD improved by 29%, POD by 25%, and CAT by 28% under Cobalt stress. Furthermore, the foliar application of STU significantly increased the accumulation of osmoprotectants as TSS was increased by 23% and proline was increased by 24% under cobalt stress. Among wheat varieties, FSD-2008 showed better adaptation under Cobalt stress by showing enhanced photosynthetic pigments and antioxidant activities compared to Zincol-2016. In conclusion, the foliar-applied STU can alleviate the negative impacts of Cobalt stress by improving plant physiological attributes and upregulating the antioxidant defense system in wheat.

Graphical Abstract
What are the factors affecting primary care choice when the access under health insurance scheme is limited?: a cross-sectional study in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Fauziyyah Afina Nur , Shibanuma Akira , Ong Ken Ing Cherng , Jimba Masamine
Published: February 2024

Background

Ensuring equal access to primary care services is crucial, as the gateway to a higher level of care. Indonesia has been trying to increase financial access to medical care by administering national health insurance known as BPJS-Health (Badan Penyelenggara Jaminan Sosial Kesehatan) since 2014. However, BPJS-Health beneficiaries can only use their benefits at a limited number of registered primary care providers (BPJS-Health partners). This study investigated the geographical coverage of BPJS-Health and BPJS-Health beneficiaries’ primary care choices, based on their characteristics and healthcare preferences in the target areas of Bandung, Indonesia.

Methods

The setting of this cross-sectional study was the areas with low physical access to BPJS-Health partners but high physical access to non-BPJS-Health partners. Physical access was determined by spatial network analysis, resulting in a geographical coverage map. A total of 216 adults were recruited and they completed the questionnaire about their primary care choice. All participants had been registered with the BPJS-Health system and living in the study areas. Their participation in non-BPJS-Health was also evaluated. Participants’ choice of care was assessed in three different scenarios, when the individual was experiencing mild, chronic, and serious illnesses.

Results

BPJS-Health partners’ geographical coverage was unequally distributed in Bandung. Being registered with non-BPJS-Health company was negatively associated with the more frequent choice of using BPJS-Health partners’ services (AOR = 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06-0.58, P = 0.004) among BPJS-Health beneficiaries. For serious illnesses, having a high income was associated with choosing non-BPJS-Health partners and hospitals (AOR = 4.90; 95% CI, 1.16-20.77, P = 0.031). When dealing with mild and chronic illnesses, participants were concerned about the quality of treatment they would receive as a major factor in choosing a primary care provider. However, receiving better treatment quality was negatively associated with choosing BPJS-Health partners in all cases of illness severities.

Conclusions

Sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare preference factors, and health insurance status were associated with participants’ primary care choices in the target areas of Bandung, Indonesia. BPJS-Health partners’ coverage map and the preference factors are potentially important for policymakers, especially for the development of future BPJS-Health partnerships.
Counting what counts: assessing quality of life and its social determinants among nursing home residents with dementia
Authors: Hoben Matthias , Dymchuk Emily , Doupe Malcolm B. , Keefe Janice , Aubrecht Katie , Kelly Christine , Stajduhar Kelli , Banerjee Sube , O’Rourke Hannah M. , Chamberlain Stephanie , Beeber Anna , Salma Jordana , Jarrett Pamela , Arya Amit , Corbett Kyle , Devkota Rashmi , Ristau Melissa , Shrestha Shovana , Estabrooks Carole A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Maximizing quality of life (QoL) is a major goal of care for people with dementia in nursing homes (NHs). Social determinants are critical for residents' QoL. However, similar to the United States and other countries, most Canadian NHs routinely monitor and publicly report quality of care, but not resident QoL and its social determinants. Therefore, we lack robust, quantitative studies evaluating the association of multiple intersecting social determinants with NH residents’ QoL. The goal of this study is to address this critical knowledge gap.

Methods

We will recruit a random sample of 80 NHs from 5 Canadian provinces (Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario). We will stratify facilities by urban/rural location, for-profit/not-for-profit ownership, and size (above/below median number of beds among urban versus rural facilities in each province). In video-based structured interviews with care staff, we will complete QoL assessments for each of ~ 4,320 residents, using the DEMQOL-CH, a validated, feasible tool for this purpose. We will also assess resident’s social determinants of QoL, using items from validated Canadian population surveys. Health and quality of care data will come from routinely collected Resident Assessment Instrument – Minimum Data Set 2.0 records. Knowledge users (health system decision makers, Alzheimer Societies, NH managers, care staff, people with dementia and their family/friend caregivers) have been involved in the design of this study, and we will partner with them throughout the study. We will share and discuss study findings with knowledge users in web-based summits with embedded focus groups. This will provide much needed data on knowledge users' interpretations, usefulness and intended use of data on NH residents’ QoL and its health and social determinants.

Discussion

This large-scale, robust, quantitative study will address a major knowledge gap by assessing QoL and multiple intersecting social determinants of QoL among NH residents with dementia. We will also generate evidence on clusters of intersecting social determinants of QoL. This study will be a prerequisite for future studies to investigate in depth the mechanisms leading to QoL inequities in LTC, longitudinal studies to identify trajectories in QoL, and robust intervention studies aiming to reduce these inequities.
Towards prevention of new COVID-19 infections in institutions of higher education: factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among public university students in Ghana
Authors: Gbagbo Fred Yao , Opoku Richmond , Quarcoo Rosemary
Published: February 2024

Background

Ghana’s mask-wearing compliance with COVID-19 prevention protocols has not been as impressive among the general population. In this study, we examined factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among public university students in Ghana to make recommendations for the prevention of new COVID-19 infections in public universities.

Methods

We conducted this Census in a public university in Ghana between January and December 2022. The study design was an exploratory-cross-sectional and online survey. Structured questionnaires developed by the authors were used to collect data from 3,272 students. Data were analyzed with Jeffreys’s Amazing Statistics Program (JASP). Frequency distributions were used to summarize the data into tables and graphs whilst logistic regression analysis was done to examine the factors influencing compliance with mask-wearing among participants as well as their mask-wearing behaviors in school.

Results

Compliance with mask-wearing measures was high with 85.9% of the students wearing a nose mask always or often. Agreeing that the reusable masks do not last long was associated with a reduced chance of non-compliance (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.57, 0.86). However, agreeing with some challenges was associated with increased chances of non-compliance. These included concerns that it is boring to mask after wearing makeup or having a haircut (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.37, 2.14), and that masking is burdensome because it has to be removed when talking (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.01, 1.57), and that it is difficult to hear while masked (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.79).

Conclusion

Cost-benefit analyses, opinions about one’s look, and communication difficulties are the key factors influencing students’ non-compliance with mask-wearing regulations. To encourage student compliance with mask-wearing regulations at Ghana’s public universities, we recommend innovation in nose mask manufacture.
Trends of antimicrobial susceptibilities and multidrug-resistant colonization rate in patients transferred from long-term care facilities during 2017–2022: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Park Jin Ju , Park Hyejin , Na Sun Hee , Seo Yu Bin , Lee Jacob
Published: February 2024

Background

With the global increase in the older population, the proportion of those receiving care in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) has also been increasing. We assessed the epidemiology, antibiotic susceptibility, and colonization status of drug-resistant organisms in patients transferred from LTCFs.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients transferred from LTCFs between 2017 and 2022. The reasons for admission, antimicrobial susceptibility, and colonization rates of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) were recorded. We analyzed the susceptibility and colonization rates by year to identify trends.

Results

Of the 936 patients transferred from LTCFs, 54.3% were admitted to the intensive care unit and 12.5% died. The most common reason for admission was infection (n = 573, 61.2%), followed by gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 67, 7.2%) and cerebrovascular disorder (n = 65, 6.9%). A total of 452 Enterobacterales strains were isolated, and their susceptibility rates to ciprofloxacin and cefotaxime were 33.3% and 35.6%, respectively. A total of 54.9% were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing strains, and 4.9% of them were carbapenem-resistant, both of which showed an increasing trend (P = 0.024 and P < 0.001, respectively). The prevalence rates of CRE, CRAB, and MRSA colonization were 9.2%, 7.1%, and 23.1%, respectively. CRE colonization showed a significant increase (P < 0.001), with carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales accounting for 75.9% of cases.

Conclusions

Patients transferred from LTCFs are primarily affected by infections and exhibit high resistance rates. The increasing trend in CRE colonization rates each year highlights the need for the implementation of rigorous infection control measures for effective management.
The role of ataluren in the treatment of ambulatory and non-ambulatory children with nonsense mutation duchenne muscular dystrophy - a consensus derived using a modified Delphi methodology in Eastern Europe, Greece, Israel and Sweden
Authors: Golli Tanja , Juříková Lenka , Sejersen Thomas , Dixon Craig
Published: February 2024

Background

This paper details the results of an evaluation of the level of consensus amongst clinicians on the use of ataluren in both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients with nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy (nmDMD). The consensus was derived using a modified Delphi methodology that involved an exploration phase and then an evaluation phase.

Methods

The exploration phase involved 90-minute virtual 1:1 interviews of 12 paediatric neurologists who cared for 30–120 DMD patients each and had patient contact every one or two weeks. The respondents managed one to ten nmDMD patients taking ataluren. The Discussion Guide for the interviews can be viewed as Appendix A. Following the exploration phase interviews, the interview transcripts were analysed by an independent party to identify common themes, views and opinions and developed 43 draft statements that the Steering Group (authors) reviewed, refined and endorsed a final list of 42 statements. Details of the recruitment of participants for the exploration and evaluation phases can be found under the Methods section.

Results

A consensus was agreed (> 66% of respondents agreeing) for 41 of the 42 statements using results from a consensus survey of healthcare professionals (n = 20) experienced in the treatment of nmDMD.

Conclusions

The statements with a high consensus suggest that treatment with ataluren should be initiated as soon as possible to delay disease progression and allow patients to remain ambulatory for as long as possible. Ataluren is indicated for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy that results from a nonsense mutation in the dystrophin gene, in ambulatory patients aged 2 years and older (see Summary of Product Characteristics for each country)
Prevalence of genital high-risk human papillomavirus infections and associated factors among women living with human immunodeficiency virus in Uganda
Authors: Nakigozi Harriet , Ndejjo Rawlance , Bazeyo William , Nabaggala Annet , Achola Caroline , Iga Moses , Kalyesubula Simeon , Kanamwangi Ben , Mutungi Gerald , Batte Charles , Mukunya David , Sserwanga Lawrence , Gemageine Godfrey , Oyoo Charles Akiya , Nabadda Susan
Published: February 2024

Background

Women living with HIV are at risk for cervical dysplasia and cancer worldwide. In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that testing for high-risk HPV (hrHPV) infection be incorporated into cervical cancer screening programs using molecular nucleic acid tests (NATs) but this has not previously been done in Uganda. The country’s coverage for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) screening remains low at less than 10% for women aged 25–49 years. This study determined the genital prevalence of hrHPV infection and the associated factors among women living with HIV in Uganda.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 selected health facilities among participants who were on Antiretroviral therapy (ART). Participants who consented to participate were instructed on how to collect their own high vaginal swabs using a cervical brush for HPV molecular testing (HPV DNA or HPV RNA) and their demographics data was collected using a standard questionnaire. Laboratory diagnosis for HPV molecular testing was done using Gene xpert machines and Hologic Aptima Machine. Modified Poisson regression analysis was conducted to determine the associated factors.

Results

This study involved 5856 HIV positive participants on ART. A total of 2006 out of 5856 (34.3%) participants had high risk HPV infections. HPV infections by genotypes were: HPV16 317(15.8%), HPV 18/45 308 (15.4%) and other high-risk HPV 1381 (68.8%). The independent factors associated with all hrHPV were parity, education level, having more than one partner, and engaging in early sex. Smoking was associated with HPV 16, HPV 18/45 and other hrHPV. Age was associated with all hrHPV, marital status with HPV 16, and occupation with HPV 16.

Conclusions

The prevalence of genital high-risk HPV infections among HIV positive women attending ART clinics in public facilities in Uganda was high. Other hrHPV genotype was the commonest compared to 18/45 and HPV 16. The integration of cervical cancer screening in ART programmes remains paramount to support the early detection of cervical cancer and Non-invasive self-collected urine and vaginal sampling for cervical cancer screening present an opportunity.
Impact of preoperative white blood cell count on outcomes in different stage colorectal cancer patients undergoing surgical resection: a single-institution retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Bei , Ling Dandan , Li Lihong , Zhang Jun , Xu Jianghui
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To explore the association between preoperative WBC count and the long-term survival outcomes and clinical outcomes in different stage patients who underwent surgical resection for colorectal cancer (CRC).

Patients and methods

A cohort of 8121 Chinese patients who underwent surgical resection for CRC from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2014 were enrolled as part of the retrospective cohort were retrospectively analyzed. Based on that the preoperative WBC optimal cut-off value was 7*109/L (7,000/µL), the high preoperative WBC group and the low preoperative WBC group was defined. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) using the propensity score was used to reduce confounding. The impact of preoperative WBC count on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was investigated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Univariate Cox proportional hazards models in different stage subgroup respectively.

Results

After IPTW, the clinical characters in the high preoperative WBC count group and the low preoperative WBC count group were balanced. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the 5-year OS rate were significantly lower in the high preoperative WBC count group overall, in stage II and IV. The 5-year DFS rate was significantly lower overall, in stage II and III in the high preoperative WBC count group. High preoperative WBC count was associated with poorer OS overall in stage II and stage IV.

Conclusions

This study suggests that preoperative WBC count is an independent risk factor for survival in patients undergoing colorectal surgery and may need to consider the stage of cancer when applied to predict long-term adverse outcome prognosis.