bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Perceived Access and Treatment Knowledge on Medication Preferences for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Jaffe Kaitlyn , Patel Shivam , Chen Liying , Slat Stephanie , Bohnert Amy , Lagisetty Pooja
Published: June 2024

Background:

Medications for opioid use disorders (MOUDs) are effective, but most people with opioid use disorder (OUD) do not receive treatment. Prior research has explored patients’ structural barriers to access and perceptions of MOUD. Little research has considered treatment knowledge and perceptions outside of the patient population. Members of the public without OUD themselves (eg, family, friends) can significantly influence treatment decisions of persons with OUD. Considering these gaps, we conducted an original survey with a diverse sample of US adults to explore knowledge and preferences toward OUD treatments.

Methods:

We conducted an online survey with 1505 White, Black, and Latino/a Americans including a small percentage (8.5%) with self-reported lifetime OUD. The survey used vignettes to describe hypothetical patients with OUD, provide basic treatment information (ie, methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone, nonmedication treatment), and then assessed treatment preferences. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined associations between covariates of interest (eg, perceived access, knowledge, demographics) and preference for MOUD versus nonmedication treatment.

Results:

There were 523 White, 502 Black, and 480 Latino/a respondents. Across racial/ethnic subsamples, respondents had the greatest knowledge of nonmedication treatments, with Black (72.7%) and Latino/a (70.2%) respondents having significantly greater knowledge compared to White respondents (61.8%). However, after viewing the vignette, a greater proportion of respondents chose methadone (35.8%) or buprenorphine (34.8%) as their first-choice treatment for hypothetical patients. Multivariable logistic regression suggested that among Black respondents, those with knowledge of nonmedication treatment were more likely to choose MOUD than those without knowledge (odds ratio = 2.41, 95% confidence interval = 1.34-4.34). Perceived treatment access did not affect treatment choice.

Conclusions:

Across racial groups, knowledge and perceived access to nonmedication treatment was greater than for MOUD, but many still selected MOUD as a first-choice treatment. Significant findings emphasized the importance of treatment knowledge around decision-making, highlighting opportunities for tailored education efforts to improve uptake of evidence-based treatment.
Fiber Bundle Topology Optimization for Surface Flows
Authors: Deng Yongbo , Zhang Weihong , Zhu Jihong , Xu Yingjie , Korvink Jan G
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a topology optimization approach for the surface flows on variable design domains. Via this approach, the matching between the pattern of a surface flow and the 2-manifold used to define the pattern can be optimized, where the 2-manifold is implicitly defined on another fixed 2-manifold named as the base manifold. The fiber bundle topology optimization approach is developed based on the description of the topological structure of the surface flow by using the differential geometry concept of the fiber bundle. The material distribution method is used to achieve the evolution of the pattern of the surface flow. The evolution of the implicit 2-manifold is realized via a homeomorphous map. The design variable of the pattern of the surface flow and that of the implicit 2-manifold are regularized by two sequentially implemented surface-PDE filters. The two surface-PDE filters are coupled, because they are defined on the implicit 2-manifold and base manifold, respectively. The surface Navier-Stokes equations, defined on the implicit 2-manifold, are used to describe the surface flow. The fiber bundle topology optimization problem is analyzed using the continuous adjoint method implemented on the first-order Sobolev space. Several numerical examples have been provided to demonstrate this approach, where the combination of the viscous dissipation and pressure drop is used as the design objective.
Wood defect detection based on the CWB-YOLOv8 algorithm
Authors: An Hao , Liang Zhihong , Qin Mingming , Huang Yuxiang , Xiong Fei , Zeng Guojian
Published: June 2024

As an important renewable resource, wood is widely used in various industries. When addressing wood defects that limit the amount of wood used during processing, manual inspection and other technologies are not suitable for automated production scenarios. In this paper, we first establish our own dataset, which includes information about multiple tree species and multiple defects types, to enhance the overall applicability of the proposed model. Second, target detection technology involving deep learning is used for defect detection. The conditional parametric convolution (CondConv), Wise-IoU, and BiFormer modules are used to improve upon the latest YOLOv8 algorithm. Based on the experimental findings, the suggested approach exhibits notable improvements in terms of both the mAP@0.5 index and the mAP@0.5:0.95 index, surpassing the performance of the YOLOv8 algorithm by 3.5% and 5.8%, respectively. It also has advantages over other target detection algorithms. The proposed method can effectively improve wood utilization and automated wood processing technology.
Investigating the Anti-inflammatory Effect of Quinoline Derivative: N1-(5-methyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b]quinolin-11-yl)benzene-1,4-diamine Hydrochloride Loaded Soluble Starch Nanoparticles Against Methotrexate-induced Inflammation in Experimental Model
Authors: Medhat Dalia , El-Bana Mona A. , El-Tantawy El-Sayed Ibrahim , Ahmed Abdullah A. S. , El-Naggar Mehrez E. , Hussein Jihan
Published: June 2024

Background

It is necessary to develop advanced therapies utilizing natural ingredients with anti-inflammatory qualities in order to lessen the negative effects of chemotherapeutics.

Results

The bioactive N1-(5-methyl-5H-indolo[2,3-b]quinolin-11-yl)benzene-1,4-diamine hydrochloride (NIQBD) was synthesized. After that, soluble starch nanoparticles (StNPs) was used as a carrier for the synthesized NIQBD with different concentrations (50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg). The obtained StNPs loaded with different concentrations of NIQBD were coded as StNPs-1, StNPs-2, and StNPs-3. It was observed that, StNPs-1, StNPs-2, and StNPs-3 exhibited an average size of 246, 300, and 328 nm, respectively. Additionally, they also formed with homogeneity particles as depicted from polydispersity index values (PDI). The PDI values of StNPs-1, StNPs-2, and StNPs-3 are 0.298, 0.177, and 0.262, respectively.

In vivo investigation of the potential properties of the different concentrations of StNPs loaded with NIQBD against MTX-induced inflammation in the lung and liver showed a statistically substantial increase in levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) accompanied by a significant decrease in levels of oxidants such as malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), advanced oxidation protein product (AOPP), matrix metalloproteinase 9/Gelatinase B (MMP-9), and levels of inflammatory mediators including interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) in both lung and liver tissues, and a significant decrease in levels of plasma homocysteine (Hcy) compared to the MTX-induced inflammation group. The highly significant results were obtained by treatment with a concentration of 200 mg/mL.

Histopathological examination supported these results, where treatment showed minimal inflammatory infiltration and congestion in lung tissue, a mildly congested central vein, and mild activation of Kupffer cells in liver tissues.

Conclusion

Combining the treatment of MTX with natural antioxidant supplements may help reducing the associated oxidation and inflammation.
In silico prediction of polyketide biosynthetic gene clusters in the genomes of Hypericum-borne endophytic fungi
Authors: Petijová Linda , Henzelyová Jana , Kuncová Júlia , Matoušková Martina , Čellárová Eva
Published: June 2024

Background

The search for new bioactive natural compounds with anticancer activity is still of great importance. Even though their potential for diagnostics and treatment of cancer has already been proved, the availability is still limited. Hypericin, a naphthodianthrone isolated essentially from plant source Hypericum perforatum L. along with other related anthraquinones and bisanthraquinones belongs to this group of compounds. Although it has been proven that hypericin is synthesized by the polyketide pathway in plants, none of the candidate genes coding for key enzymes has been experimentally validated yet. Despite the rare occurrence of anthraquinones in plants, their presence in microorganisms, including endophytic fungi, is quite common. Unlike plants, several biosynthetic genes grouped into clusters (BGCs) in fungal endophytes have already been characterized.

Results

The aim of this work was to predict, identify and characterize the anthraquinone BGCs in de novo assembled and functionally annotated genomes of selected endophytic fungal isolates (Fusarium oxysporum, Plectosphaerella cucumerina, Scedosporium apiospermum, Diaporthe eres, Canariomyces subthermophilus) obtained from different tissues of Hypericum spp. The number of predicted type I polyketide synthase (PKS) BGCs in the studied genomes varied. The non-reducing type I PKS lacking thioesterase domain and adjacent discrete gene encoding protein with product release function were identified only in the genomes of C. subthermophilus and D. eres. A candidate bisanthraquinone BGC was predicted in C. subthermophilus genome and comprised genes coding the enzymes that catalyze formation of the basic anthraquinone skeleton (PKS, metallo-beta-lactamase, decarboxylase, anthrone oxygenase), putative dimerization enzyme (cytochrome P450 monooxygenase), other tailoring enzymes (oxidoreductase, dehydrogenase/reductase), and non-catalytic proteins (fungal transcription factor, transporter protein).

Conclusions

The results provide an insight into genetic background of anthraquinone biosynthesis in Hypericum-borne endophytes. The predicted bisanthraquinone gene cluster represents a basis for functional validation of the candidate biosynthetic genes in a simple eukaryotic system as a prospective biotechnological alternative for production of hypericin and related bioactive anthraquinones.
Screening and functional verification of drought resistance-related genes in castor bean seeds
Authors: Wang Zhiyan , Luo Rui , Wen Qi , Liang Xiaotian , Zhao Huibo , Zhao Yong , Yin Mingda , Wen Yanpeng , Hu Xuemei , Huang Fenglan
Published: June 2024

Drought is one of the natural stresses that greatly impact plants. Castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) is an oil crop with high economic value. Drought is one of the factors limiting castor bean growth. The drought resistance mechanisms of castor bean have become a research focus. In this study, we used castor germinating embryos as experimental materials, and screened genes related to drought resistance through physiological measurements, proteomics and metabolomics joint analysis; castor drought-related genes were subjected to transient silencing expression analysis in castor leaves to validate their drought-resistant functions, and heterologous overexpression and backward complementary expression in Arabidopsis thaliana, and analysed the mechanism of the genes' response to the participation of Arabidopsis thaliana in drought-resistance.

Three drought tolerance-related genes, RcECP 63, RcDDX 31 and RcA/HD1, were obtained by screening and analysis, and transient silencing of expression in castor leaves further verified that these three genes corresponded to drought stress, and heterologous overexpression and back-complementary expression of the three genes in Arabidopsis thaliana revealed that the function of these three genes in drought stress response.

In this study, three drought tolerance related genes, RcECP 63, RcDDX 31 and RcA/HD1, were screened and analysed for gene function, which were found to be responsive to drought stress and to function in drought stress, laying the foundation for the study of drought tolerance mechanism in castor bean.
The analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided cervical erector spinae block in arthroscopic shoulder surgery: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zhu Manhua , Zhou Ruifen , Wang Lingzhi , Ying Qilu
Published: June 2024

Background

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) is a novel fascial plane block technique that can provide effective perioperative analgesia for thoracic, abdominal and lumbar surgeries. However, the effect of cervical ESPB on postoperative analgesia after arthroscopic shoulder surgery is unknown. The aim of this study is to investigate the analgesic effect and safety of ultrasound-guided cervical ESPB in arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Methods

Seventy patients undergoing arthroscopy shoulder surgery were randomly assigned to one of two groups: ESPB group (n = 35) or control group (n = 35). Patients in the ESPB group received an ultrasound-guided ESPB at the C7 level with 30 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine 30 min before induction of general anesthesia, whereas patients in the control group received no block. The primary outcome measures were the static visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores at 4, 12, and 24 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) before anesthesia (t1), 5 min after anesthesia (t2), 10 min after skin incision (t3), and 10 min after extubation (t4); intraoperative remifentanil consumption; the Bruggrmann comfort scale (BCS) score, quality of recovery-15 (QoR-15) scale score and the number of patients who required rescue analgesia 24 h after surgery; and adverse events.

Results

The static VAS scores at 4, 12 and 24 h after surgery were significantly lower in the ESPB group than those in the control group (2.17 ± 0.71 vs. 3.14 ± 1.19, 1.77 ± 0.77 vs. 2.63 ± 0.84, 0.74 ± 0.66 vs. 1.14 ± 0.88, all P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in HR or MAP at any time point during the perioperative period between the two groups (all P > 0.05). The intraoperative consumption of remifentanil was significantly less in the ESPB group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The scores of BCS and QoR-15 scale were higher in the ESPB group 24 h after surgery than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared to the control group, fewer patients in the ESPB group required rescue analgesia 24 h after surgery (P < 0.05). No serious complications occurred in either group.

Conclusions

Ultrasound-guided cervical ESPB can provide effective postoperative analgesia following arthroscopic shoulder surgery, resulting in a better postoperative recovery with fewer complications.

Trial registration

Chictr.org.cn identifier ChiCTR2300070731 (Date of registry: 21/04/2023, prospectively registered).
Understanding barriers to well-child visit attendance among racial and ethnic minority parents
Authors: Fahey Nisha , Holt Allison , Cataltepe Deniz , Brochier Annelise , Stern Amy , Mazanec Morgan , Courtemanche James W. , Wilkie Tracey , Tan Kellie , Lyu Rulan , Alper Eric , Fowler Josephine , Rhein Lawrence , Garg Arvin
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To assess racial and ethnic minority parents’ perceptions about barriers to well-child visit attendance.

Methods

For this cross-sectional qualitative study, we recruited parents of pediatric primary care patients who were overdue for a well-child visit from the largest safety net healthcare organization in central Massachusetts to participate in semi-structured interviews. The interviews focused on understanding potential knowledge, structural, and experiential barriers for well-child visit attendance. Interview content was inductively coded and directed content analysis was performed to identify themes.

Results

Twenty-five racial and ethnic minority parents participated; 17 (68%) of whom identified Spanish as a primary language spoken at home. Nearly all participants identified the purpose, significance, and value of well-child visits. Structural barriers were most cited as challenges to attending well-child visits, including parking, transportation, language, appointment availability, and work/other competing priorities. While language emerged as a distinct barrier, it also exacerbated some of the structural barriers identified. Experiential barriers were cited less commonly than structural barriers and included interactions with office staff, racial/ethnic discrimination, appointment reminders, methods of communication, wait time, and interactions with providers.

Conclusions

Racial and ethnic minority parents recognize the value of well-child visits; however, they commonly encounter structural barriers that limit access to care. Furthermore, a non-English primary language compounds the impact of these structural barriers. Understanding these barriers is important to inform health system policies to enhance access and delivery of pediatric care with a lens toward reducing racial and ethnic-based inequities.
Eosinophils and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients
Authors: Fekri Mitra Samareh , Najminejad Zohreh , Karami Robati Fatemeh , Dalfardi Behnam , Lashkarizadeh Mahdiyeh , Najafzadeh Mohammad Javad
Published: June 2024

Background

The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a global health emergency necessitates continued investigation of the disease progression. This study investigated the relationship between eosinophilia and the severity of COVID-19 in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 73 COPD patients infected by COVID-19 in Afzalipour Hospital, Iran. Peripheral blood samples were collected for hematological parameter testing, including eosinophil percentage, using Giemsa staining. Eosinophilia was defined as≥ 2% and non-eosinophilia as< 2%. The severity of pulmonary involvement was determined based on chest CT severity score (CT-SS) (based on the degree of involvement of the lung lobes, 0%: 0 points, 1–25%: 1 point, 26–50%: 2 points, 51–75%: 3 points, and 76–100%: 4 points). The CT-SS was the sum of the scores of the five lobes (range 0–20).

Results

The average age of patients was 67.90±13.71 years, and most were male (54.8%). Non-eosinophilic COPD patients were associated with more severe COVID-19 (P= 0.01) and lower oxygen saturation (P= 0.001). In addition, the study revealed a significant difference in the chest CT severity score (CT-SS) between non-eosinophilic (9.76±0.7) and eosinophilic COPD patients (6.26±0.63) (P< 0.001). Although non-eosinophilic COPD patients had a higher mortality rate, this difference was not statistically significant (P= 0.16).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that reduced peripheral blood eosinophil levels in COPD patients with COVID-19 correlate with unfavorable outcomes. Understanding this association can help us identify high-risk COPD patients and take appropriate management strategies to improve their prognosis.
Circulating free insulin-like growth factor-I and prostate cancer: a case-control study nested in the European prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition
Authors: Cheng Tuck Seng , Noor Urwah , Watts Eleanor , Pollak Michael , Wang Ye , McKay James , Atkins Joshua , Masala Giovanna , Sánchez Maria-Jose , Agudo Antonio , Castilla Jesús , Aune Dagfinn , Colorado-Yohar Sandra M. , Manfredi Luca , Gunter Marc J. , Pala Valeria , Josefsson Andreas , Key Timothy J. , Smith-Byrne Karl , Travis Ruth C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Circulating total insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is an established risk factor for prostate cancer. However, only a small proportion of circulating IGF-I is free or readily dissociable from IGF-binding proteins (its bioavailable form), and few studies have investigated the association of circulating free IGF-I with prostate cancer risk.

Methods

We analyzed data from 767 prostate cancer cases and 767 matched controls nested within the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition cohort, with an average of 14-years (interquartile range = 2.9) follow-up. Matching variables were study center, length of follow-up, age, and time of day and fasting duration at blood collection. Circulating free IGF-I concentration was measured in serum samples collected at recruitment visit (mean age 55 years old; standard deviation = 7.1) using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Conditional logistic regressions were performed to examine the associations of free IGF-I with risk of prostate cancer overall and subdivided by time to diagnosis (≤ 14 and > 14 years), and tumor characteristics.

Results

Circulating free IGF-I concentrations (in fourths and as a continuous variable) were not associated with prostate cancer risk overall (odds ratio [OR] = 1.00 per 0.1 nmol/L increment, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.02) or by time to diagnosis, or with prostate cancer subtypes, including tumor stage and histological grade.

Conclusions

Estimated circulating free IGF-I was not associated with prostate cancer risk. Further research may consider other assay methods that estimate bioavailable IGF-I to provide more insight into the well-substantiated association between circulating total IGF-I and subsequent prostate cancer risk.
Ochrobactrum anthropi infection following corneal transplantation -a case report and review of literature
Authors: Liu Lei , Wang Chunmei , Xu Hui , Hou Lulu , Huang Rong , Shi Xiaoru , Jia Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

Ochrobactrum anthropi is widely distributed and primarily infects patients with compromised immune functions . Historically, O. anthropi has been considered to possess low toxicity and pathogenicity; however, recent studies suggest that it may in fact cause severe purulent infections. In this case study, we examine a case of O. anthropi infection following corneal transplantation, exploring the occurrence and outcomes of such post-operative infections.

Case presentation

A retrospective analysis of cases involved examinations, genetic testing for diagnosis, and subsequent treatment. In patients undergoing partial penetrating keratoplasty with a fungal corneal ulcer perforation, anterior chamber exudation and purulence were observed post-surgery. Despite antifungal treatment, genetic testing of the anterior chamber fluid and purulent material confirmed O. anthropi infection. The use of antimicrobial treatment specifically targeting O. anthropi was found to be effective in treating the infection.

Conclusion

Inflammatory reactions following corneal transplantation should be should be monitored for the presence of other infections. Genetic testing has significant implications for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Citral in lemon myrtle, lemongrass, litsea, and melissa essential oils suppress the growth and invasion of breast cancer cells
Authors: Nagata Takuya , Satou Tadaaki , Hayashi Shinichiro , Satyal Prabodh , Watanabe Manabu , Riggs Brannick , Saida Yoshihisa
Published: June 2024

Objective

Although cancer therapy suppresses recurrence and prolongs life, it may be accompanied by strong side effects; thus, there is a strong demand for the development effective treatments with fewer side effects. Cancer therapy using plant-derived essential oils is attracting attention as one promising method. This study investigated the antitumor effects of essential oil volatiles on breast cancer cells and identifies four essential oils that display antitumor activity.

Methods

Breast cancer cells were cultured in a 96-well plate, then one of twenty essential oils was added dropwise to the central well. The plate was incubated at 37 °C for 48 h and the effect of the volatile components of each essential oil on the surrounding breast cancer cell growth ability was examined using an MTT assay. Gas chromatography was used to investigate the concentration of the transpiration components that may affect cancer cells.

Results

Of the 20 essential oils, Lemongrass, Lemon myrtle, Litsea, and Melissa displayed strong anti-tumor effects. These essential oils inhibited the growth of nearby breast cancer cells, even when diluted more than 500-fold. The transpiration component of lemon Myrtle showed the strongest antitumor effect, but was the least cytotoxic to mononuclear cells in normal peripheral blood (PBMC). Each of these essential oils contained a very large amount of citral. The IC50 against breast cancer cells when citral was volatilized from each essential oil was 1.67 µL/mL for geranial and 1.31 µL/mL for neral. Volatilized citral alone showed strong anti-proliferation and infiltration-inhibiting effects.

Conclusion

The transpiration components of Lemongrass, Lemon myrtle, Litsea, and Melissa are thought to inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation due to their high levels of citral.
Factors leading to lapses in professional behaviour of Gynae residents in Pakistan: a study reflecting through the lenses of patients and family, consultants and residents
Authors: Noreen Humera , Yasmeen Rahila , Mohammad Shabana Ali
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Professional behaviour is the first manifestation of professionalism. In teaching hospitals, the residents can be considered vulnerable to lapses in professional behaviour when they fail to meet the set standards of professionalism. Residents of some specialties are more at risk of lapses in professional behaviour due to the demanding nature of work. Research focusing on the behaviour of residents in the field of Gynae and the underlying factors contributing to such behaviour is notably lacking in the literature. Additionally, there is a gap in understanding the perspectives of patients from Pakistan on this matter, as it remains unexplored thus far, which constitutes the central focus of this study.

An increase in complaints lodged against Gynae resident’s professional behaviour in Pakistan Citizen Portal (PCP) was observed. Therefore, an exploratory qualitative study was conducted to investigate the factors and rationales contributing to the lapses in resident’s professional behaviour.

The study collected the viewpoints of three stakeholder groups: patients and their families, consultants and residents. The study was conducted in three phases. First, the document analysis of written complaints was conducted, followed by face-to-face interviews (11 per group) conducted by trained researchers from an independent 3rd party. Finally, the interview data was transcribed, coded and analysed.

In total 15 themes were identified from the interviews with 3 stakeholders, which were then categorized and resulted in 6 overlapping themes. The most prevalent lapse reported by all 3 stakeholders was poor verbal behaviour of residents.

Conclusion

The highly ranked factors contributing to triggering the situation were associated with workplace challenges, well-being of residents, limited resources, patients and family characteristics, patients’ expectations, lack of administrative and paramedic support, cultural factors and challenges specific to Gynae specialty.

Another intriguing and emerging theme was related to the characteristics of patients and attendants which helped in understanding the causes and implications of conflicting environments. The value of competency also emphasized that can be accomplished by training and mentoring systems. The thorough examination of these factors by key stakeholders aided in accurately analysing the issue, its causes, and possible solutions. The study's findings will assist higher authorities in implementing corrective actions and offering evidence-based guidance to policymakers to improve healthcare system.
Exploring the influence of the spiritual climate on psychological empowerment among nurses in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Xuan , Xia Yulan , Gou Li , Wen Xianxiu
Published: June 2024

Background

Psychological empowerment notably impacts nurses’ work engagement and high-quality care. A spiritual climate is a work environment that respects individuals and encourages them to express personal views. Previous studies have shown that a spiritual climate enhances psychological empowerment, however, the relationship between them among the nursing population remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effect of a spiritual climate on nurses’ psychological empowerment and provide a scientific basis for improving psychological empowerment among nurses.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 837 nurses from five hospitals in Sichuan Province, Southwest China, was conducted using a convenience sampling method; this survey included nurses’ demographic characteristics, the Psychological Empowerment Scale (PES), and the Chinese version of the Spiritual Climate Scale (C-SCS). The data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression.

Results

The sample of 837 nurses attained a psychological empowerment score of (45.49 ± 6.42) and a spiritual climate score of (75.25 ± 16.75). The one-way ANOVA revealed that psychological empowerment scores among nurses varied based on differences in age, department, years of work experience, professional title, level of work intensity, and children (yes/no). Pearson’s correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between the spiritual climate and nurses’ psychological empowerment (r = 0.564, P < 0.001), and multiple linear regression analysis showed that working in the intensive care unit (ICU), work intensity, and the four items pertaining to spiritual climate influenced nurses’ psychological empowerment, explaining 32.6% of the total variance in psychological empowerment.

Conclusion

The findings suggested that the spiritual climate perceived by nurses and psychological empowerment are moderately high. Working in the ICU, work intensity, and the four items pertaining to spiritual climate influence nurses’ psychological empowerment. Nursing managers should pay attention to the daily work intensity of nurses, especially ICU nurses, organize work tasks reasonably, promote dynamic and balanced nurse human resource deployment based on patients’ conditions and nurses’ workloads, and implement scientific scheduling plans to establish a positive spiritual climate in the workplace. Additionally, group workshops and systematic training programs can effectively enhance psychological empowerment among nurses.
Experience and training needs of nurses in military hospital on emergency rescue at high altitude: a qualitative meta-synthesis
Authors: Zhao Ruixuan , Fang Shijie , Li Dongwen , Zhang Cheng
Published: June 2024

Background

Nurses play an important role in the treatment of war wounds on the plateau, and they face multiple challenges and a variety of needs in their caregiving process. This study aimed to systematically integrate and evaluate qualitative research data to understand the altitude emergency rescue experience and training needs of nurses in military hospitals and provide them with targeted assistance.

Methods

We critically assessed the study using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklist for Qualitative Research. Extraction, summarization and meta-synthesis of qualitative data. Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, FMRS, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database (CECDB), VIP Database, and China Biomedical Database (CBM) were searched for relevant studies published from the establishment of the database to May 2023. Additionally, we conducted a manual search of the references of the identified studies. Registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42024537104).

Results

A total of 17 studies, including 428 participants, were included, and 139 research results were extracted, summarized into 10 new categories, and formed 3 meta-themes. Meta-theme 1: mental state of military nurses during deployment. Meta-theme 2: the experience of military nurses during deployment. Meta-theme 3: training needs for emergency care.

Conclusions

Emergency rescue of high-altitude war injuries is a challenging process. Leaders should pay full attention to the feelings and needs of military nurses during the first aid process and provide them with appropriate support.
Actions for mitigating the negative effects of patient participation in patient safety: a qualitative study
Authors: Van der Voorden Michael , Franx Arie , Ahaus Kees
Published: June 2024

Background

Recent research within the context of Obstetrics shows the added value of patient participation in in-hospital patient safety. Notwithstanding these benefits, recent research within an Obstetrics department shows that four different negative effects of patient participation in patient safety have emerged. However, the approach to addressing these negative effects within the perspective of patient participation in patient safety is currently lacking. For this reason, the aim of this study is to generate an overview of actions that could be taken to mitigate the negative effects of patient participation in patient safety within an Obstetrics department.

Methods

This study was conducted in the Obstetrics Department of a tertiary academic center. An explorative qualitative interview study included sixteen interviews with professionals (N = 8) and patients (N = 8). The actions to mitigate the negative effects of patient participation in patient safety, were analyzed and classified using a deductive approach.

Results

Eighteen actions were identified that mitigated the negative effects of patient participation in patient safety within an Obstetrics department. These actions were categorized into five themes: ‘structure’, ‘culture’, ‘education’, ‘emotional’, and ‘physical and technology’. These five categories reflect the current approach to improving patient safety which is primarily viewed from the perspective of professionals rather than of patients.

Conclusions

Most of the identified actions are linked to changing the culture to generate more patient-centered care and change the current reality, which looks predominantly from the perspective of the professionals and too little from that of the patients. Furthermore, none of the suggested actions fit within a sixth anticipated category, namely, ‘politics’. Future research should explore ways to implement a patient-centered care approach based on these actions. By doing so, space, money and time have to be created to elaborate on these actions and integrate them into the organizations’ structure, culture and practices.
Identifying disulfidptosis subtypes in hepatocellular carcinoma through machine learning and preliminary exploration of its connection with immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Guanjun , Zhang Ganghua , Zhu Yuxing , Wu Anshan , Fang Jianing , Yin Zhijing , Chen Haotian , Cao Ke
Published: June 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly prevalent and deadly cancer, with limited treatment options for advanced-stage patients. Disulfidptosis is a recently identified mechanism of programmed cell death that occurs in SLC7A11 high-expressing cells due to glucose starvation-induced disintegration of the cellular disulfide skeleton. We aimed to explore the potential of disulfidptosis, as a prognostic and therapeutic marker in HCC.

Methods

We classified HCC patients into two disulfidptosis subtypes (C1 and C2) based on the transcriptional profiles of 31 disulfrgs using a non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm. Further, five genes (NEIL3, MMP1, STC2, ADH4 and CFHR3) were screened by Cox regression analysis and machine learning algorithm to construct a disulfidptosis scoring system (disulfS). Cell proliferation assay, F-actin staining and PBMC co-culture model were used to validate that disulfidptosis occurs in HCC and correlates with immunotherapy response.

Results

Our results suggests that the low disulfidptosis subtype (C2) demonstrated better overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) prognosis, along with lower levels of immunosuppressive cell infiltration and activation of the glycine/serine/threonine metabolic pathway. Additionally, the low disulfidptosis group showed better responses to immunotherapy and potential antagonism with sorafenib treatment. As a total survival risk factor, disulfS demonstrated high predictive efficacy in multiple validation cohorts. We demonstrated the presence of disulfidptosis in HCC cells and its possible relevance to immunotherapeutic sensitization.

Conclusion

The present study indicates that novel biomarkers related to disulfidptosis may serve as useful clinical diagnostic indicators for liver cancer, enabling the prediction of prognosis and identification of potential treatment targets.

Graphical Abstract
Cytological diagnosis of patients with embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the cervix: case report and literature review
Authors: Wei Xiaoxia , Li Lei
Published: June 2024

Cervical embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma(ERMS) is a rare malignancy. To date, no cases of ERMS diagnosed by cervical cytology have been reported. In this study, we report a case of cervical ERMS identified by a liquid-based cytology test and cell blocks in a 46-year-old postmenopausal woman. We describe the cytological features of ERMS, with the aim of helping cytopathologists recognize this rare cervical tumor.
From cells to power cells: harnessing bacterial electron transport for microbial fuel cells (MFCs)
Authors: Garimella Sri Sathya Sandilya , Rachakonda Sai Vennela , Pratapa Sai Sowmya , Mannem Gnana Divya , Mahidhara Ganesh
Published: June 2024

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs), which use bacterial electron transport mechanisms to generate energy, have become a viable technology for renewable energy production. This review investigates the evolutionary and functional connections between bacterial energy transduction mechanisms and mitochondrial electron transport chains, building on the endosymbiont theory of eukaryotic cell evolution. The conserved features and similarities between prokaryotic and eukaryotic electron transport pathways were elucidated, highlighting their common origins and roles in cellular bioenergetics. This discussion explores the essential mechanisms governing the movement of electrons and ions across biological membranes, crucial for generating energy and maintaining electrochemical gradients in bacteria and mitochondria. Capitalizing on these insights, we explore the applications of electrogenic bacteria in MFCs for renewable electricity generation. Optimal conditions for enhancing bacterial electron transfer to electrode surfaces are identified, paving the way for improved MFC performance. Potential large-scale implementations of MFCs in wastewater treatment, biosensing, and bioremediation of contaminated environments are discussed, underscoring their versatility and environmental benefits. The importance of investigating bioenergetic mechanisms at both the cellular and molecular scales of fully harnessing the capabilities of microbial energy conversion systems is highlighted in this review. By bridging the gap between fundamental cellular processes and sustainable technologies, we aim to advance renewable energy solutions that harness the remarkable capabilities of electrogenic microorganisms.
Investigation of the anatomic risk factors in acute anterior cruciate ligament ruptures to develop ramp lesions of the medial meniscus by quantitative MRI
Authors: Tang Ziyi , Luo Yuxi , Liu Dan , Zhou Suying , Xu Zhangyan , Zhu Tongxin , Yang HaiTao
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the anatomic risk factors of knee in patients with acute non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (aACL) ruptures to develop ramp lesions.

Methods

A total of 202 subjects were retrospectively divided into three groups: (1) aACL ruptures combined with ramp lesions group (n = 76); (2) isolated ACL ruptures group (n = 56) and (3) normal controls group (n = 70). Quantitative morphological parameters on MRI were measured including: diameter of medial femoral condyle (MFC), anterior-posterior length and depth of medial tibial plateau (MTP AP length and depth), lateral posterior tibial slope (LPTS) and medial posterior tibial slope (MTPS), asymmetry of LPTS and MPTS (LMPTS), lateral meniscal slope (LMS), and medial meniscal slope (MMS).

Results

The MTP AP length, MTP AP length/MFC diameter ratio, MTP depth, LPTS and the asymmetry of LMPTS showed significant differences among the three groups (p < 0.001). The risk factors associated with the ramp lesions including a longer MTP AP length (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.00–1.44, p = 0.044), increased MTP depth (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.22–3.00, p = 0.005) and lager ratio (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.22, p = 0.036). The highest AUC was the MTP AP length/MFC diameter ratio (0.74; 95% CI, 0.66–0.82). The combination model increased higher accuracy (0.80; 95% CI, 0.72–0.88).

Conclusion

Several bony anatomic characteristics of the knee, especially the morphology of medial tibia plateau, are additional risk factors for aACL ruptures to develop ramp lesions.

Critical relevance statement

Predictive anatomic risk factors of the knee for patients with acute non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (aACL) ruptures to develop ramp lesions, especially the morphology of medial tibia plateau, are detectable by MRI.

Key Points

Ramp lesion development can complicate aACL ruptures and requires specific treatment.

Longer AP length and increased MTP depth are risk factors for concurrent ramp lesions.

Identification of ramp lesions allows for the most appropriate treatment.

Graphical Abstract
PrEP facilitators and barriers in substance use bridge clinics for women who engage in sex work and who use drugs
Authors: Harris Miriam TH , Weinberger Emma , O’Brien Christine , Althoff Mary , Paltrow-Krulwich Samantha , Taylor Jessica L. , Judge Abigail , Samet Jeffrey H. , Walley Alexander Y. , Gunn Christine M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Women who engage in sex work and use drugs (WSWUD) experience disproportionate HIV risks. Substance use treatment bridge clinics offer an opportunity to increase HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) delivery to WSWUD, but research on best practices is lacking. Therefore, we explored facilitators and barriers to PrEP across the PrEP care continuum in these settings.

Methods

Bridge clinic and affiliated harm reduction health service providers and WSWUD from Boston were recruited using passive and active outreach between December 2021 and August 2022. Participants were invited to take part in semi-structured phone or in-person interviews to explore HIV prevention and PrEP care experiences overall and within bridge clinic settings. Deductive codes were developed based on HIV risk environment frameworks and the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model and inductive codes were added based on transcript review. Grounded content analysis was used to generate themes organized around the PrEP care continuum.

Results

The sample included 14 providers and 25 WSWUD. Most WSWUD were aware of PrEP and more than half had initiated PrEP at some point. However, most who initiated PrEP did not report success with daily oral adherence. Providers and WSWUD described facilitators and barriers to PrEP across the steps of the care continuum: Awareness, uptake, adherence, and retention. Facilitators for WSWUD included non-stigmatizing communication with providers, rapid wraparound substance use treatment and HIV services, having a PrEP routine, and service structures to support PrEP adherence. Barriers included low HIV risk perceptions and competing drug use and survival priorities. Provider facilitators included clinical note templates prompting HIV risk assessments and training. Barriers included discomfort discussing sex work risks, competing clinical priorities, and a lack of PrEP adherence infrastructure.

Conclusion

WSWUD and bridge clinic providers favored integrated HIV prevention and substance use services in harm reduction and bridge clinic settings. Harm reduction and bridge clinic programs played a key role in HIV prevention and PrEP education for WSWUD. Effective behavioral and structural interventions are still needed to improve PrEP adherence for WSWUD.
Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal alterations in trophoblasts at invasion sites and disturbed myometrial immune microenvironment in placenta accreta spectrum disorders
Authors: Ji Kaiyuan , Chen Yunshan , Pan Xiuyu , Chen Lina , Wang Xiaodi , Wen Bolun , Bao Junjie , Zhong Junmin , Lv Zi , Zheng Zheng , Liu Huishu
Published: June 2024

Background

Placenta accreta spectrum disorders (PAS) are a severe complication characterized by abnormal trophoblast invasion into the myometrium. The underlying mechanisms of PAS involve a complex interplay of various cell types and molecular pathways. Despite its significance, both the characteristics and intricate mechanisms of this condition remain poorly understood.

Methods

Spatial transcriptomics (ST) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), were performed on the tissue samples from four PAS patients, including invasive tissues (ST, n = 3; scRNA-seq, n = 4), non-invasive normal placenta samples (ST, n = 1; scRNA-seq, n = 2). Three healthy term pregnant women provided normal myometrium samples (ST, n = 1; scRNA-seq, n = 2). ST analysis characterized the spatial expression landscape, and scRNA-seq was used to identify specific cellular components in PAS. Immunofluorescence staining was conducted to validate the findings.

Results

ST slices distinctly showed the myometrium in PAS was invaded by three subpopulations of trophoblast cells, extravillous trophoblast cells, cytotrophoblasts, and syncytiotrophoblasts, especially extravillous trophoblast cells. The pathways enriched by genes in trophoblasts, smooth muscle cells (SMC), and immune cells of PAS were mainly associated with immune and inflammation. We identified elevated expression of the angiogenesis-stimulating gene PTK2, alongside the cell proliferation-enhancing gene EGFR, within the trophoblasts of PAS group. Trophoblasts mainly contributed the enhancement of HLA-G and EBI3 signaling, which is crucial in establishing immune escape. Meanwhile, SMC regions in PAS exhibited upregulation of immunomodulatory markers such as CD274, HAVCR2, and IDO1, with CD274 expression experimentally verified to be increased in the invasive SMC areas of the PAS group.

Conclusions

This study provided information of cellular composition and spatial organization in PAS at single-cell and spatial level. The dysregulated expression of genes in PAS revealed a complex interplay between enhanced immune escape in trophoblasts and immune tolerance in SMCs during invasion in PAS. These findings will enhance our understanding of PAS pathogenesis for developing potential therapeutic strategies.