bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saussurea nanzhengensis (Asteraceae, Saussurea), a new species from Bashan Mountain, Central China
Authors: DU SI-YI , XU LIAN-SHENG , CHEN YOU-SHENG
Published: June 2024

Saussurea nanzhengensis (Asteraceae), a new species from Bashan Mountain, Central China, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to S. kungii in its petioles of basal and lower stem leaves winged and leaf blade lyrate lobed, leaf blade adaxially glabrous, phyllary arachnoid and apex distinctly free, but differs by its stem leaf numerous (vs. few or none), basal and lower stem leaves narrowly elliptic (vs. narrowly obovate to elliptic), terminal lobe more than half the length of the blade (vs. less than half the length of the blade), leaf margin entire or subentire (vs. denticulate), leaf blade abaxially usually densely arachnoid lanate (vs. glabrous), capitula numerous (vs. few to numerous), in a paniculate synflorescence (vs. in a corymbiform synflorescence), phyllaries in 6 rows (vs. in 4–5 rows), green with black margin (vs. green), and pappus brown (vs. dirty white).
Zingiber inodorum (Zingiberaceae: Zingiberoideae), a new species of Z. sect. Cryptanthium from Hainan, China
Authors: WANG QING-LONG , YUAN LANG-XING , TANG HUAN , BAI LIN
Published: June 2024

Zingiber inodorum, a new species belonging to Z. sect. Cryptanthium from Hainan, China, is described and colour plates showing its distinctive features are provided. Information on its distribution, ecology and phenology is also provided and a preliminary IUCN conservation assessment of the species is proposed. An unpublished phylogenetic study shows that Z. inodorum is related to a group of 11 species that is informally named as “Zingiber cochleariforme group”. A key to these species is provided. Among them, Z. inodorum is mostly similar to Z. guangxiense from south and southeast China in its inflorescence and flower characters. Zingiber inodorum is also similar to Z. magang and Z. skornickovae from central Vietnam in its vegetative characters. A tabulated comparison of Z. inodorum, Z. guangxiense, Z. magang and Z. skornickovae is provided.
Gomphonema beaugerianum, a new Gomphonema species (Bacillariophyta) found in a historic William Smith sample from the Auvergne (France)
Authors: VAN DE VIJVER BART
Published: June 2024

A large, unknown Gomphonema taxon belonging to the G. truncatum group was observed in a historic sample collected by William Smith during his 1854 excursion in the Auvergne (France). The unknown species presented sufficient differences with all known taxa in the truncatum-capitatum group to warrant further morphological investigations. Detailed light and scanning electron microscopy investigations in comparison with all published literature revealed that the unknown species had a unique combination of morphological (uniseriate striae, lack of well-develop headpole) and morphometric (large valve width) features. Therefore, the species is described as new: Gomphonema beaugerianum sp. nov. The new species was observed in Lac de Guéry, an oligotrophic, almost circumneutral lake in the Auvergne with a high ecological quality.
Description of four new species of the Neotropical Micropotamia Carvalho (Diptera, Muscidae)
Authors: JORGE STELA COSTA , CARVALHO CLAUDIO JOSÉ BARROS DE
Published: June 2024

Micropotamia Carvalho (Diptera, Muscidae) is a Neotropical genus with four species distributed from Mexico to southern Brazil. Here, we describe four new species in the genus: Micropotamia stellaria sp. nov. from Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brazil, Micropotamia ananas sp. nov. from Borba, Amazonas, Brazil, Micropotamia ditissima sp. nov. from Rio Nhamundá, Amazonas, Brazil, and Micropotamia fortuna sp. nov. from Est. La Casona, Prov. Puntarenas, Costa Rica. An identification key for all species is provided.
New insights into the diversity and distribution of Leptanillinae (Formicidae) within China
Authors: HAMER MATTHEW T. , WEEMAELS ANDRÉ IBÁÑEZ , FU YIFAN , XUAN LIU , TSE CHEUNG YAU LEO , TANG KIT LAM , GUÉNARD BENOIT
Published: June 2024

Leptanillinae is an ant subfamily of low taxonomic diversity and limited distribution within the Old World. Species within this subfamily are hypogaeic and are notoriously difficult to find and collect. As a result of their rarity, comparatively little is known about their natural history and distributions. Based upon new sampling efforts, we present significant new records of Leptanillinae from Mainland China, and Hong Kong SAR. Opamyrma hungvuong Yamane et al., 2008 is newly recorded from Sichuan Province, alongside a potential easterly record from Zhejiang Province, greatly extending its northern and eastern range distribution. Further, Protanilla lini Terayama, 2009 is recorded from Mainland China for the first time from Fujian Province and Hong Kong. We provide detailed collecting accounts for all newly recorded species, including associated habitat, nesting locality, colony composition, and for P. lini dietary information. All new localities for both species significantly extend their previously assumed distributions. Additional records of Leptanilla bethyloides Griebenow, 2024, and a note on L. japonica Baroni Urbani, 1977 from Hong Kong are provided. An updated distribution checklist of Leptanillinae from Mainland China and Taiwan is also provided. Our new records point towards an under sampled ant fauna of Mainland China underlying the need for new sampling approaches within the region.
A new species of Cymonomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1880, from the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico (Crustacea: Brachyura: Cymonomidae)
Authors: FELDER DARRYL L. , TAVARES MARCOS
Published: June 2024

A new western Atlantic member of the cymonomid crab genus, Cymonomus A. Milne-Edwards, 1880, is described from the continental slope in the northern Gulf of Mexico. While the only two available specimens are poorly preserved and lack appendages, they are clearly distinct from other known members of the genus on the basis of the subangular anterolateral margin of the carapace paired with nearly straight, untapered eyestalks that terminate in a slightly bulbous, well-defined cornea, and antennal peduncles that reach beyond the second article of the antennular peduncle. Despite extensive collecting efforts in adjacent waters, the specimens remain known from only the type locality at 850 m depth.
Protecting National Sovereignty: The ‘Australian Model’ and the Exclusion of Asylum Seekers
Authors: Ann Martin Catherine
Published: June 2024

Increasingly, the ‘Australian model’ of offshore detention is promoted to restrict asylum seeker migration and preserve national sovereignty. This article analyses metaphor usage within press coverage of immigration to examine the origins of this discourse. Focusing on two high points of asylum seeker arrivals (2001–2002, 2012–2013), I demonstrate how negative metaphor use constructed asylum seekers as racialized, illegitimate, illegal Others, who breached Australian sovereignty. I argue that this was a response to a crisis of settler-colonial legitimacy, exacerbated by calls for Indigenous sovereignty, with anti-asylum discourse utilized as a tool to negate and neutralize Indigenous sovereignty claims and legitimate settler-colonial state power. I further argue that sovereignty claims were employed to reinforce Australia’s positioning within regional hierarchies of power, through the enactment of offshore processing agreements with less powerful, ostensibly ‘sovereign’ nations, thereby reaffirming and legitimating a racialized, neo-colonial ordering of the world.
Safety and feasibility of third-party cytotoxic T lymphocytes for high-risk patients with COVID-19
Authors: Grosso Dolores , Wagner John L. , O’Connor Allyson , Keck Kaitlyn , Huang Yanping , Wang Zi-Xuan , Mehler Hilary , Leiby Benjamin , Flomenberg Phyllis , Gergis Usama , Nikbakht Neda , Morris Michael , Karp Julie , Peedin Alexis , Flomenberg Neal
Published: June 2024

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) destroy virally infected cells and are critical for the elimination of viral infections such as those caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Delayed and dysfunctional adaptive immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 are associated with poor outcomes. Treatment with allogeneic SARS-CoV-2–specific CTLs may enhance cellular immunity in high-risk patients providing a safe, direct mechanism of treatment. Thirty high-risk ambulatory patients with COVID-19 were enrolled in a phase 1 trial assessing the safety of third party, SARS-CoV-2–specific CTLs. Twelve interventional patients, 6 of whom were immunocompromised, matched the HLA-A∗02:01 restriction of the CTLs and received a single infusion of 1 of 4 escalating doses of a product containing 68.5% SARS-CoV-2–specific CD8+ CTLs/total cells. Symptom improvement and resolution in these patients was compared with an observational group of 18 patients lacking HLA-A∗02:01 who could receive standard of care. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed at any dosing level. Nasal swab polymerase chain reaction testing showed ≥88% and >99% viral elimination from baseline in all patients at 4 and 14 days after infusion, respectively. The CTLs did not interfere with the development of endogenous anti–SARS-CoV-2 humoral or cellular responses. T-cell receptor β analysis showed persistence of donor-derived SARS-CoV-2-specific CTLs through the end of the 6-month follow-up period. Interventional patients consistently reported symptomatic improvement 2 to 3 days after infusion, whereas improvement was more variable in observational patients. SARS-CoV-2–specific CTLs are a potentially feasible cellular therapy for COVID-19 illness. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT04765449.
Autotetraploidy of rice does not potentiate the tolerance to drought stress in the seedling stage
Authors: Yu Shunwu , Li Tianfei , Teng Xiaoying , Yang Fangwen , Ma Xiaosong , Han Jing , Zhou Li , Bian Zhijuan , Wei Haibin , Deng Hui , Zhu Yongsheng , Yu Xinqiao
Published: June 2024

Polyploid is considered an advantage that has evolved to be more environmentally adaptable than its diploid. To understand if doubled chromosome of diploid rice can improve drought tolerance, we evaluated the diploid (2X) and autotetraploid (4X) plants of threeindicaand threejaponicavarieties. Drought stress in the plastic bucket of four-leaf stage revealed that the drought tolerance of 4X plants was lower than that of its diploid donor plants. The assay of photosynthetic rate of all varieties showed that all 4X varieties had lower rates than their diploid donors. The capacity for reactive oxygen species production and scavenging varied among different 2X and 4X varieties. Further, transcriptomic analysis of 2X and 4X plants of four varieties under normal and drought condition showed that the wide variation of gene expression was caused by difference of varieties, not by chromosome ploidy. However, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that the severe interference of photosynthesis-related genes in tetraploid plants under drought stress is the primary reason for the decrease of drought tolerance in autotetraploid lines. Consistently, new transcripts analysis in autotetraploid revealed that the gene transcription related with mitochondrion and plastid of cell component was influenced most significantly. The results indicated that chromosome doubling of diploid rice weakened their drought tolerance, primarily due to disorder of photosynthesis-related genes in tetraploid plants under drought stress. Maintain tetraploid drought tolerance through chromosome doubling breeding in rice needs to start with the selection of parental varieties and more efforts.
Transcriptome variations in hybrids of wild emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides)
Authors: Ziv Alon , kashkush Khalil
Published: June 2024

Background

Wild emmer wheat is a great candidate to revitalize domesticated wheat genetic diversity. Recent years have seen intensive investigation into the evolution and domestication of wild emmer wheat, including whole-genome DNA and transcriptome sequencing. However, the impact of intraspecific hybridization on the transcriptome of wild emmer wheat has been poorly studied. In this study, we assessed changes in methylation patterns and transcriptomic variations in two accessions of wild emmer wheat collected from two marginal populations, Mt. Hermon and Mt. Amasa, and in their stable F4 hybrid.

Results

Methylation-Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism (MSAP) detected significant cytosine demethylation in F4 hybrids vs. parental lines, suggesting potential transcriptome variation. After a detailed analysis, we examined nine RNA-Seq samples, which included three biological replicates from the F4 hybrid and its parental lines. RNA-Seq databases contained approximately 200 million reads, with each library consisting of 15 to 25 million reads. There are a total of 62,490 well-annotated genes in these databases, with 6,602 genes showing differential expression between F4 hybrid and parental lines Mt. Hermon and Mt. Amasa. The differentially expressed genes were classified into four main categories based on their expression patterns. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes are associated with DNA/RNA metabolism, photosynthesis, stress response, phosphorylation and developmental processes.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant transcriptomic changes resulting from intraspecific hybridization within natural plant populations, which might aid the nascent hybrid in adapting to various environmental conditions.
Effects of cigarette smoking associated with sarcopenia in persons 60 years and older: a cross-sectional study in Zhejiang province
Authors: Lin Junfen , Hu Meiyu , Gu Xue , Zhang Tao , Ma Haiyan , Li Fudong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Smoking is a risk factor for sarcopenia. Nevertheless, few studies analyzed the independent effects of various smoking dimensions (duration, intensity, cumulative dose) on sarcopenia risk. This is a cross-sectional study based on an older population in Zhejiang Province to determine which smoking dimensions are mainly important for sarcopenia risk and to explore the dose–response relationship between them.

Methods

Our study included 783 patients with sarcopenia and 4918 non-sarcopenic individuals. Logistic regression and restricted cubic with logistic regression (for nonlinear dose effects) were used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals as well as restricted cubic splines (RCS) curves.

Results

Compared with never-smokers, current smokers had an increased risk of sarcopenia (OR = 1.786; 95% CI 1.387–2.301) after adjusting for confounders such as age, sex, education, alcohol consumption, disease history, etc. There was no significant association between smoking intensity and sarcopenia after more than 20 cigarettes per day (OR = 1.484; 95% CI 0.886–2.487), whereas the risk of sarcopenia increased significantly with increasing duration of smoking after more than 40 years (OR = 1.733; 95% CI 1.214–2.473). Meanwhile, there was a significant non-linear dose–response relationship between smoking duration or intensity and the risk of sarcopenia. However, the risk of sarcopenia increased linearly with the number of pack-years of smoking, which is not a significant nonlinear dose–response relationship.

Conclusions

This study indicated the association between smoking and sarcopenia. Both smoking duration and cumulative dose were significantly and positively associated with sarcopenia. These findings reflect the important role of the number of years of smoking in increasing the risk of sarcopenia and provide scientific evidence that different smoking dimensions may influence the risk of the sarcopenia.
Validating the Delone and Mclean’s model in a developing country’s infectious disease pandemic context.
Authors: Ikenyei Uche , Haggerty Nicole
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed at validating the updated DeLone and McLean’s information systems success model (D&MISS) in a developing country’s infectious disease pandemic preparedness and response context. The findings from this study are relevant to inform policies and actions for enhancing developing countries’ the Health Information System’s (HIS) performance, and specifically to improve their future pandemic readiness and response. The study sought to respond to a key research question: to what extent can the D&MISS model provide evidence to enhance the HIS’s infectious disease pandemic readiness and response in developing countries?

Method

A cross-sectional study design that involved a multi-stage probability sampling approach to select eligible healthcare workers was applied. Conducted in Nigeria and Liberia, 576 primary healthcare workers, out of the proposed 600, participated, representing a response rate of 96%. The D&MISS model served as the theoretical underpinning for this study, and nine hypothesized relationships were stated before the study based on the interconnectedness of the model’s six dimensions. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) data analysis using the Partial Least Square approach was used to determine if hypothesized relationships were supported.

Results

70% of the observed variance in the Net Benefit construct was explained by the predictive influence of the Use and User Satisfaction constructs. The Use construct had a slightly more substantial predictive influence than the User Satisfaction construct. Eight of the nine hypothesized relationships were supported, except for the relationship between Information Quality and Use. The relationships between System Quality and Use and User Satisfaction and Net Benefit had the highest beta coefficient, statistically significant at p < 0.05.

Conclusion and relevance

The D&MISS model demonstrated its relevance in providing evidence on the gaps of the HISs regarding future pandemic preparedness and response. However, from a future research opportunity, its enhancement and modifications with context-specific dimensions peculiar to developing countries will improve its ability to provide more context-specific evidence to improve pandemic preparedness and response for developing countries.
Effects of cutaneous leishmaniasis on patients’ quality of life
Authors: Yizengaw Endalew , Nibret Endalkachew
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is caused by protozoan parasite called Leishmania. It is endemic in more than 100 countries globally. Despite its vast prevalence and impact on quality of life, it is one of the most neglected tropical dermatological diseases. The CL burden has often been expressed based on the physical disfigurement caused by the disease. However, considering the impact of the disease beyond physical impairment and changes in patients’ appearance would help to better understand the disease as a public health problem. The effect of CL on patients’ quality of life was determined in this study.

Methods

The data that were related to quality of life were collected using Standard one-week Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. The questions were categorized under seven domains: symptoms & feelings, daily activities, work and school, leisure, personal relationships, and treatment. Each question was scored on a three-point scale: Very much (3), A lot (2), A little (1), Undecided (0), and Not at all (0). The sum of the scores lied between 0 and 48. A higher score shows worse quality of life. The data were entered and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science 23. Frequencies and proportions were used to describe the data. Differences were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.

Results

The lives of the majority of CL patients (60.7%) were significantly affected by CL. The quality of life of patients was moderately impacted by CL in 25% of the CL patients. In 32.1% of the CL patients, the effect of CL on patients’ quality of life was very large. The quality of one CL patient’s life was extremely largely affected. The disease had a small effect on 32.1% of the CL patients. Personal relationship was the most affected domain followed by symptoms and feelings and treatment. Future study including rural regions is required.

Conclusion

The Dermatology Life Quality Index demonstrates that CL has a small to extremely very large negative effect on the quality of life of patients.
Identifying mental health outcomes and evidence-based psychological interventions for supporting pediatric gunshot wound patients: A systematic review and proposed conceptual model
Authors: Hale Molly E. , Pinkman Kahyah , Quinoy Alexis M. , Schoffner Kindell R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Accidental and assault gunshot wounds (GSWs) are the second leading cause of injury in the United States for youth ages 1- to 17-years-old, resulting in significant negative effects on pediatric patients’ mental health functioning. Despite the critical implications of GSWs, there has yet to be a systematic review synthesizing trends in mental health outcomes for pediatric patients; a gap the present review fills. Additionally, this review identifies evidence-based psychological interventions shown to be effective in the treatment of subclinical symptoms of psychological disorders in the general population.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted using five databases: American Psychological Association (APA) PsycInfo, APA PsycArticles, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Education Resource Information Center (ERIC), and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval Systems Online (MEDLINE). Twenty-two articles met inclusion criteria.

Results

Findings suggest pediatric GSW patients are at a significantly elevated risk for mental health disorders when compared to other- (e.g., motor vehicle collision) and non-injured youth. Disorders include post-traumatic stress, disruptive behavior, anxiety, depression, and substance use. Hospital-based violence intervention programs, cultivating supportive relationships with adults in one’s community, and trauma-focused outpatient services were identified as effective interventions for treating subclinical psychological symptoms.

Conclusions

Depicted in the proposed conceptual model, the present study delineates a direct association between pediatric GSWs and subsequent onset of mental health disorders. This relation is buffered by evidence-based psychological interventions targeting subclinical symptoms. Results suggest brief psychological interventions can help treat mental health challenges, minimizing risk for significant long-term concerns. Cultural adaptations to enhance the utility and accessibility of interventions for all patients are recommended.
How predictive of future healthcare utilisation and mortality is data-driven population segmentation based on healthcare utilisation and chronic condition comorbidity?
Authors: Gartner Andrea , Daniel Rhian , Slyne Ciarán , Nnoaham Kelechi Ebere
Published: June 2024

Background

In recent years data-driven population segmentation using cluster analyses of mainly health care utilisation data has been used as a proxy of future health care need. Chronic conditions patterns tended to be examined after segmentation but may be useful as a segmentation variable which, in combination with utilisation could indicate severity. These could further be of practical use to target specific clinical groups including for prevention. This study aimed to assess the ability of data-driven segmentation based on health care utilisation and comorbidities to predict future outcomes: Emergency admission, A&E attendance, GP practice contacts, and mortality.

Methods

We analysed record-linked data for 412,997 patients registered with GP practices in 2018-19 in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTM UHB) area within the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank. We created 10 segments using k-means clustering based on utilisation (GP practice contacts, prescriptions, emergency and elective admissions, A&E and outpatients) and chronic condition counts for 2018 using different variable compositions to denote need. We assessed the characteristics of the segments. We employed a train/test scheme (80% training set) to compare logistic regression model predictions with observed outcomes on follow-up in 2019. We assessed the area under the ROC curve (AUC) for models with demographic variables, with and without the segments, as well as between segmentation implementations (with/without comorbidity and primary care data).

Results

Adding the segments to the model with demographic covariates improved the prediction for all outcomes. For emergency admissions this increased discrimination from AUC 0.65 (CI 0.64–0.65) to 0.73 (CI 0.73–0.74). Models with the segments only performed nearly as well as the full models. Excluding comorbidity showed reduced predictive ability for mortality (similar otherwise) but most pronounced reduction when excluding all primary care variables.

Conclusions

This shows that the segments have satisfactory predictive ability, even for varied outcomes and a broad range of events and conditions used in the segmentation. It suggests that the segments can be a useful tool in helping to identify specific groups of need to target with anticipatory care. Identification may be refined with selected diagnoses or more specialised tools such as risk stratification.
Social support as perceived, provided and needed by family-members of migrants with type 2 diabetes – a qualitative study
Authors: Stenberg Jenny , Hjelm Katarina
Published: June 2024

Background

Social support provided by a family member has been found to have a buffering effect on distress and is associated with better diabetes self-care. This study explores the meaning of social support, as described by close family members of foreign-born people living with type 2 diabetes (PWDM) in Sweden. It also explores the support provided by family members, and the support they need to be able to support the PWDM.

Methods

Qualitative explorative study, semi-structured interviews for data collection. Qualitative content analysis based on a theoretical framework on social support. Purposive sample of 13 family members, 18–52-years-old, born in countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Russia.

Results

The meaning of support was described as social and emotional. Most participants described a stressful situation; feelings of sadness/worry about the risk of the PWDM developing complications added to a strained life situation from which one could not opt out. Frequent daily contacts in a family network were evident, particularly by children trained as healthcare professionals. Caring for a family member was considered a filial piety, but it was also a chance to reciprocate. The support provided was mainly informational (e.g., reminders about nutritional intake), but it was also instrumental/practical (administering medicines, helping with economy/logistics, planning/cooking meals, basic care) and emotional (sharing meals, thoughts, and activities). The support the family members needed was getting first-hand information by attending the physician visits, being able to book appointments themselves at suitable times, and preventing the withholding of important information about the PWDM. They also desired an open telephone-line, oral and written information, particularly on diet.

Conclusions

To family-members, supporting the PWDM was normal and a filial piety. Support provided and needed was not only informational but also instrumental/practical and emotional. In diabetes care, addressing foreign-born individuals, diabetes education needs to be developed, also including family members. Informational material, particularly on diet, and improved access to healthcare and information about the healthcare system have the potential to increase family members’ control over the situation and prevent a negative trajectory in caregiving with perceived demands causing high levels of stress.
Comparison of clinical efficacy of robot-assisted and freehand core decompression in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ouyang Wensi , Guo Guimei , Jiang Tianpei , Zhao Changwei , Zhou Xiaoling
Published: June 2024

Objective

At present, the core decompression (CD) has become the main surgical procedure for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH); however, the CD surgery requires high operator experience and repeated fluoroscopy increases the radiation damage to patients, and medical staff. This article compares the clinical efficacy of robot-assisted and freehand CD for ONFH by meta-analysis.

Methods

Computer searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, WanFang, and Chinese BioMedical Literature Database were conducted from the time of database inception to November 15, 2023. The literature on the clinical efficacy of robot-assisted and freehand CD in the treatment of ONFH was collected. Two researchers independently screened the literature according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, extracted data, and strictly evaluated the quality of the included literature. Outcome measures encompassed operative duration, intraoperative blood loss volume, frequency of intraoperative fluoroscopies, visual analog scale (VAS) score, Harris hip score (HHS), complications, and radiographic progression. Data synthesis was carried out using Review Manager 5.4.1 software. The quality of evidence was evaluated according to Grades of Recommendation Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) standards.

Results

Seven retrospective cohort studies involving 355 patients were included in the study. The results of meta-analysis showed that in the robot-assisted group, the operative duration (MD = -17.60, 95% CI: -23.41 to -11.78, P < 0.001), intraoperative blood loss volume (MD = -19.98, 95% CI: -28.84 to -11.11, P < 0.001), frequency of intraoperative fluoroscopies (MD = -6.60, 95% CI: -9.01 to -4.20, P < 0.001), and ΔVAS score (MD = -0.45, 95% CI: -0.67 to -0.22, P < 0.001) were significantly better than those in the freehand group. The GRADE evidence evaluation showed ΔVAS score as low quality and other indicators as very low quality. There was no significant difference in the terms of ΔHHS (MD = 0.51, 95% CI: -1.34 to 2.35, P = 0.59), complications (RR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.03 to 2.74, P = 0.29), and radiographic progression (RR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.25 to 1.02, P = 0.06) between the two groups.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence showing the benefit of robot-assisted therapy for treatment of ONFH patients, and much of it is of low quality. Therefore, caution should be exercised in interpreting these results. It is recommended that more high-quality studies be conducted to validate these findings in future studies.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ #recordDetails, CRD42023420593.
Prevalence of low back pain and associated factors among bank workers at Hawassa city, Northern Zone, Sidama Region, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Jonga Thomas , Samuel Beniyam , Aynalem Amdehiwot , Israel Eskinder , Balta Bargude , Amano Abdella
Published: June 2024

Background

Lower back pain (LBP) is a public health threat that affects people who frequently experience sedentary working conditions. Few studies reported on low back pain among bank workers in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the magnitude and associated factors of low back pain among bank workers in Hawassa City, Sidama Region, Ethiopia.

Methods

This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 20, 2023, to June 30, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select participants, and data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire, entered into Epidata version 4.6, and transferred to SPSS version 25 for further analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent predictors of lower back pain.

Results

Of the 627 total study participants, six hundred seven bank workers participated in the study, with a response rate of 96.8%. The overall magnitude of lower back pain among the study population was 55.2%, with a 95% confidence interval (CI 51.1–59). Based on the multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, being in a manager position (AOR = 3.85; 95% CI = (1.2,12), a level 2 banker (AOR = 3.8; 95% CI = (1.9,8.9), age 30–39 years (AOR = 4; 95% CI = (2,12.4), an age ≥ 40 years (AOR = 5.4; 95% CI= (3.04,16.3), working in sufficient space (AOR = 0.4; 95% CI = (0.3,0.9), and physical activity (AOR = 0.2; 95% CI = (0.1,0.8)) were significantly associated with low back pain.

Conclusion

The prevalence of low back pain among the bank workers was high in the study area. Being in a managerial position, being a level two banker, being aged 30–39 years, being aged ≥ 40 years, working in sufficient space, and engaging in physical activity were significantly associated. Therefore, it is essential to establish a health screening team, create awareness programs for the benefit of physical activity, provide sufficient working space, and give special attention to elderly and senior bankers and bank managers to reduce the risk of developing low back pain.
Endocannabinoid levels in female-sexed individuals with diagnosed depression: a systematic review
Authors: McWhirter Meagan , Bugarcic Andrea , Steel Amie , Schloss Janet
Published: June 2024

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent mental health disorder with females experiencing higher rates of depression (11.6%), anxiety (15.7%) and physiological distress (14.5%) than males. Recently, the Endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been proposed to be a key contributing factor in the pathogenesis and symptom severity of MDD due to its role in neurotransmitter production, inflammatory response and even regulation of the female reproductive cycle. This review critically evaluates evidence regarding ECS levels in female-sexed individuals with depressive disorders to further understand ECS role.

Materials and methods

A systematic literature review of available research published prior to April 2022 was identified using PubMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), CINAHL (EBSCO), Web of Science, AMED and Scopus (Elsevier). Studies were included if they reported ECS analysis of female-sexed individuals with depression and were excluded if they did not differentiate results between sexes, assessed mental health conditions other than depression, tested efficacy of endocannabinoid/n-acylethanolamine/cannabis or marijuana administration and that were unable to be translated. Critical appraisal of each included study was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool for Systematic Reviews.

Results

The 894 located citations were screened for duplicates (n = 357) and eligibility by title and abstract (n = 501). The full text of 33 studies were reviewed, and 7 studies were determined eligible for inclusion. These studies indicated that depressed female-sexed individuals have altered levels of ECS however no significant pattern was identified due to variability of study outcomes and measures, limiting overall interpretation.

Discussion

This review suggests potential involvement of ECS in underlying mechanisms of MDD in female sexed-individuals, however no pattern was able to be determined. A major contributor to the inability to attain reliable and valid understanding of the ECS levels in female-sexed individuals with depression was the inconsistency of depression screening tools, inclusion criteria’s and analysis methods used to measure eCBs. Future studies need to implement more standardised methodology to gain a deeper understanding of ECS in female-sexed individuals with depressive disorders.

Trial registration 

This review was submitted to PROSPERO for approval in April 2022 (Registration #CRD42022324212).
In vitro and in vivo anti-parasitic activity of curcumin nanoemulsion on Leishmania major (MRHO/IR/75/ER)
Authors: Sahebi Keivan , Shahsavani Fatemeh , Mehravar Fatemeh , Hatam Gholamreza , Alimi Rasoul , Radfar Amirhossein , Bahreini Mohammad Saleh , Pouryousef Ali , Teimouri Aref
Published: June 2024

The present study aimed to assess the anti-leishmanial effects of curcumin nanoemulsion (CUR-NE) againstLeishmania major(MRHO/IR/75/ER) in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. CUR-NE was successfully preparedviathe spontaneous emulsification method. The in vitro effect of various concentrations of CUR-NE againstL. majorpromastigotes was assessed using the flow cytometry method. In vivo experiments were carried out in BALB/c mice inoculated subcutaneously with 2 × 106 L. majorpromastigotes. Mice were treated with topical CUR-NE (2.5 mg/ml), intra-lesion injection of CUR-NE (2.5 mg/ml), topical CUR suspension (CUR-S, 2.5 mg/ml), topical NE without CUR (NE-no CUR), amphotericin B as the positive control group, and infected untreated mice as the negative control group. In vitro exposure of promastigotes to CUR-NE showed a dose-dependent anti-leishmanial effect, with a 67.52 ± 0.35% mortality rate at a concentration of 1250 µg/ml and an IC50 of 643.56 µg/ml. In vivo experiments showed that topical CUR-NE and CUR-S significantly decreased the mean lesion size in mice after four weeks from 4.73 ± 1.28 to 2.78 ± 1.28 mm and 4.45 ± 0.88 to 3.23 ± 0.59 mm, respectively (p = 0.001). Furthermore, CUR-NE significantly decreased the parasite load in treated mice compared with the negative control group (p = 0.001). Results from the current study demonstrated the promising activity of CUR-NE againstL. majorin both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Moreover, CUR-NE was more efficient than CUR-S in healing and reducing parasite burden in mouse models. Future studies should aim to identify molecular mechanisms as well as the pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic aspects of CUR-NE.
Experiences and attitudes of clinical and academic nurses about infection prevention and control nursing curriculum and duties - a qualitative study
Authors: Gorjian Zahra , Asadizaker Marziyeh , Zarea Kourosh , Irajpour Alireza , Ahmadi Fatemeh , Rokhafroz Dariush
Published: June 2024

Background

Infectious diseases are becoming more widespread and re-emerging, causing psychological, social, economic, and health effects at both national and international levels. Specialist nurses can help prevent and control these infections. However, in Iran, there are currently no specialist infection prevention and control (IPC) nurses to manage and control infections. This study aims to explore clinical and academic nurses’ attitudes toward IPC nursing curriculum and duties.

Methods

The study used a qualitative content analysis approach. Thirty-six participants, including clinical and academic nurses, were selected using a purposeful sampling method. Data was collected through seven focused group discussions. The accuracy and validity of the research tools were measured using the Four-Dimension Criteria developed by Lincoln and Guba. Data analysis was conducted using directed content analysis.

Results

The data analysis of the discussions held in the seven focus groups extracted 628 codes. Three themes were developed from the qualitative analysis: “Core characteristics of the curriculum”, “Expected competencies and skills”, and “Evaluation.” These themes were derived from nine main categories and 25 subcategories.

Conclusions

Specialist IPC nurses can play important roles in various positions and environments. Therefore, educational policymakers in Iran should consider establishing IPC nursing courses. It is also recommended that policymakers and decision-makers in the nursing field of other less developed countries should prioritize this issue.
The genetic risk factors for cerebral venous thrombosis: a case-control study in a Chinese national comprehensive hospital
Authors: Wang Shaoying , Yao Ming , Yang Xinzhuang , Zhu Yicheng , Peng Bin
Published: June 2024

Background

About 13–25% of cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) cases lack clear etiology, which may be associated with underlying genetic factors. This study aims to investigate genetic factors in CVT patients using whole exome sequencing (WES).

Methods

Thirty-eight CVT patients hospitalized underwent WES. 977 subjects with WES data from a community cohort study --the Shunyi cohort were as the control group. Using bioinformatics analysis, differential genes with rare damaging variants between two groups were filtered (P < 0.05). KEGG enrichment analysis was performed on the screened genes to identify pathways associated with CVT.

Results

Through analysis of medical history, routine tests, and imaging examinations, the etiology of 38 patients: 8 cases of antiphospholipid syndrome, 6 cases with hematologic diseases, 3 cases of protein C deficiency, and 2 cases of protein S deficiency. Five cases occurred during pregnancy or puerperium, and 3 cases had a history of oral contraceptive use, and so on. The etiology was unknown in 12 cases (31.6%), and the etiology of 4 patients were further clarified through WES: F9 c.838 + 1_838 + 16del, Hemizygote: F9 EX1-EX7 Dup; CBS c.430G > A, CBS c.949 A > G; F2 c.1787G > A; SERPINC1 c.409-11G > T. Comparing the WES data of two groups, a total of 179 different genes with rare damaging variants were screened (P < 0.05), with 5 genes of interest (JAK2, C3, PROC, PROZ, SERPIND1). Enrichment analysis of the 179 different genes revealed the complement and coagulation pathway and the mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway were associated with CVT.

Conclusion

For CVT patients with unknown etiology, WES could help identify the cause of CVT early, which is of great significance for treatment decisions and prognosis. In addition to the complement and coagulation pathway, MAPK pathway is associated with CVT, potentially related to platelet regulation and inflammatory response.
A retrospective study on the analysis of influencing factors of neutropenia in endometrial cancer with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Fan Mengsi , Zhang Weiwei , Zhou Yuying , Li Mingzhuo , Wang Dongyue , Qiu Kexin , Li Mengzhen , Guo Haoran , Yan Li
Published: June 2024

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the occurrence of neutropenia in patients with endometrial cancer (EC) following adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

Retrospective analysis of EC patients who underwent adjuvant CRT from January 2012 to June 2023 in the Department of Gynecology and Oncology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University. Neutropenia was defined as an Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) of peripheral blood neutrophils below 2 × 109/L. Factors affecting neutropenia in EC patients treated with CRT using Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE), and Logistic regression was used to further analyze the effect of adding radiotherapy to different chemotherapy cycles on neutropenia, so that patients receive optimal adjuvant CRT while the risk of neutropenia is appropriately controlled.

Results

A total of 144 patients met the inclusion criteria. They underwent 330 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy, of whom 96 (66.7%) developed neutropenia, which occurred 140 times. The results of one-way GEE analysis showed that before CRT, White Blood Cell (WBC) (OR = 0.827; 95%CI, 0.701–0.976), ANC (OR = 0.749; 95%CI, 0.586–0.957), Absolute Monocyte Count (AMC) (OR = 0.047; 95%CI, 0.008–0.283), Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) (OR = 0.857; 95%CI, 0.741–0.991), platinum and docetaxel (platinum/docetaxel) dosing regimen (OR = 2.284; 95%CI, 1.130–4.618) were associated with neutropenia with adjuvant CRT for EC (p < 0.05), results of multifactorial GEE analysis showed that before adjuvant CRT ANC (OR = 0.552; 95%CI, 0.973–2.231), AMC (OR = 0.047; 95%CI, 0.004–0.052), platinum/docetaxel (OR = 2.437; 95%CI, 1.087–5.464) were an independent influence on neutropenia in adjuvant CRT for EC (p < 0.05). Multifactorial Logistic regression shows addition of radiotherapy to the first cycle of chemotherapy (OR = 4.413; 95%CI, 1.238–18.891) was an independent influence of neutropenia (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with low pre-CRT ANC and AMC, platinum/docetaxel dosing regimens need to be closely monitored during each cycle of CRT. Also, the concurrent addition of radiotherapy should be avoided during the first cycle of chemotherapy.
Two-stage hybrid surgical repair for aortic arch pathology with a shaggy aorta: a case report
Authors: Morishita Atsushi , Katahira Seiichiro , Hoshino Takeshi , Hanzawa Kazuhiko , Tomioka Hideyuki
Published: June 2024

Background

The surgical treatment strategy for aortic arch pathology with a shaggy aorta must be determined on a case-by-case basis because of the risk of catastrophic complications, such as brain infarction and spinal cord injury.

Case presentation

This report describes the surgical case of two saccular aneurysms of the arch and abdominal aorta associated with a shaggy aorta in a 63-year-old man who underwent total arch replacement and secondary thoracic endovascular aortic repair. Considering the risk of embolization during endovascular therapy, graft replacement for the abdominal aortic aneurysm was initially performed. On postoperative day 28, total arch replacement with the conventional elephant trunk was performed using the functional brain isolation technique, which involves manipulating places far from the atherosclerotic burden, such as arterial inflow for cardiopulmonary bypass and unclamping of neck vessels. On postoperative day 7 after total arch replacement, thoracic endovascular aortic repair was performed across the conventional elephant trunk in the nondiseased descending aorta. No postoperative complications, such as cerebrovascular failure, paraplegia, or embolization to abdominal viscera or lower extremities, occurred. The patient remained asymptomatic.

Conclusions

The present case suggests that total arch replacement with the conventional elephant trunk and secondary thoracic endovascular aortic repair may be an effective alternative for aortic arch pathology with a shaggy aorta. The strategy for surgical treatment in patients with aortic arch pathologies with a shaggy aorta must be judged on a case-by-case basis, considering patient characteristics, comorbidities, and preoperative evaluation using transesophageal echocardiography and computed tomography angiography, to eliminate potential determinants of intraoperative stroke.