bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesising Practice-Based Case Study Evidence From Community Interventions: Development of a Method
Authors: South Jane , Southby Kris , Freeman Charlotte , Bagnall Anne-Marie , Pennington Andy , Corcoran Rhiannon
Published: September 2024

Practice-based case studies that describe learning from implementation are a useful source of evidence for policy makers, practitioners and researchers. Despite the value of narratives developed in context as a form of experiential or applied evidence, little is known about appropriate qualitative review and synthesis methods to deal with multiple practice-based case studies. This paper reports on a methodological study to develop and pilot a synthesis method using a sample of community wellbeing case studies focused on interventions to improve community infrastructure. The study was conducted in four interlinked phases: (i) literature review to scope synthesis methods (ii) piloting search and selection methods to identify a sample of relevant practice-based case studies that reported experiential learning (iii) undertaking cross case analysis and qualitative synthesis based on framework analysis methods (iv) review and reflection to produce a summative account of the method and agreed definition. The main output from the study was a staged approach to qualitative synthesis of practice-based case studies based on seven steps, which move from identification of a conceptual framework through to producing a narrative report. The potential transferability of this approach and its application in research and policy are critically discussed. Synthesis of case studies derived from community-based interventions could address knowledge gaps in the formal evidence base. While further methodological development is warranted, it is argued that study results form a credible qualitative framework for synthesising practice-based evidence.
A spatiotemporal co-occurrence pattern mining algorithm based on ship trajectory data
Authors: Feng Chengxu , Xu Jianghu , Zhang Jianqiang , Li Houpu
Published: September 2024

Finding the potential spatiotemporal co-occurrence behavior patterns of large groups of ships while sailing is a challenging problem of great importance in many real-world applications. Through spatiotemporal data mining of ship trajectory data, route rules, navigation behavior, and potential anomalies can be mined, providing important support for maritime management, navigation safety, and emergency response. With the analysis and mining of ship trajectory data in some hotspot sea areas, this paper introduced a ship spatiotemporal co-occurrence pattern mining algorithm based on association rules. Based on the research of data model and the judgment criterion of spatio-temporal co-occurrence law, such concepts as candidate set, frequency set, and instance set are introduced together with the key procedure of algorithm, including pruning and pasting of candidate sets, screening of instance sets, definition of association reasoning, and association rule mining. Subsequently, the process of implementing the spatiotemporal co-occurrence pattern mining algorithm is devised. In the end, the algorithm is verified by taking the automatic identification system data of ships in hotspot sea areas as the source data. The proposed algorithm can find several ship combinations with spatiotemporal co-occurrence regularity in these hotspot sea areas, and the association rules on the co-occurrence of several ships. The performance of the proposed algorithms is illustrated on a real-world ship trajectory database and made a detailed comparative analysis. The results are very promising in terms of computational time. The experimental results show that our algorithm can effectively identify the motion patterns and behavior characteristics of ships, which provides an important reference and support for Marine traffic management, ship safety and Marine environment protection. The research results of this paper are of great significance for improving the efficiency and safety of maritime traffic, and also provide new ideas and methods for further research in related fields.
Can wound blush be used as an indicator for termination of endovascular procedures in chronic limb-threatening ischemia patients?
Authors: Shahat Mohammed , Taha Ashraf G , Elnaggar Ashraf , Aboloyoun Hesham
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Predicting the outcomes of endovascular revascularization of chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients with foot wounds can be challenging. Angiographic wound blush (WB) assessment has been found to be a helpful tool to assess wound perfusion. The aim of this study is to evaluate WB during endovascular revascularization of CLTI patients and its effects on treatment outcomes.

Methods

This prospective study included all CLTI patients with foot wounds who underwent successful endovascular revascularization of infrainguinal arterial disease between 2019 and 2021. Patients were grouped according to the WB status into positive WB (group A) and negative WB (group B). Both groups were compared for demographics, comorbidities, clinical picture, and 12-month limb-based patency (LBP) and amputation-free survival (AFS) rates.

Results

The study included 69 patients of Rutherford classes 5 (46.4%) and 6 (53.6%), with the main arterial lesion located at the femoropopliteal (58%) or infrapopliteal (42%) segments. Completion angiography showed positive WB in 38 (55.1%) patients and negative WB in 31 (44.9%) patients. Both groups were comparable regarding patient presentation, site of the main arterial lesion, and distribution of foot lesions in relation to the feeding artery. The overall 12-month LBP and AFS rates were 21.7% and 39.1%, respectively, with significantly better rates in group A than in group B (LBP, 31.6% vs 9.7%, p = 0.001 and AFS, 54.1% vs 22.2%, p = 0.006, respectively). Successful angiosome-based direct flow to the foot was achieved in 38 patients (55.1%), resulting in significantly better 12-month AFS rates than those with indirect revascularization (54.8% vs 26.3%, p = 0.036, respectively), despite the comparable 12-LBP rates between the direct and indirect revascularization groups (29% vs 15.8%, p = 0.133, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified smoking as a significant predictor of a major amputation, whereas positive WB and successful direct revascularization were significant predictors of limb salvage.

Conclusions

WB can serve as a predictor for AFS and LBP during endovascular revascularization of CLTI patients with foot wounds. A positive WB may guide the decision to conclude an endovascular procedure, potentially avoiding unnecessary complicated maneuvers to recanalize more vessels. Conversely, a negative WB may suggest the need for further revascularization attempts to augment wound perfusion and healing.
The effect of virtual reality distraction on haemodialysis patients’ pain and anxiety during arteriovenous fistula puncture: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Elzeky Mohamed EH , Salameh Basma , Reshia Fadia Ahmed Abdelkader , Sabry Alaa A , Shahine Noha FM , Mohamed Eman A
Published: September 2024

Background:

Pain and anxiety during arteriovenous fistula (AVF) puncture are crucial factors affecting haemodialysis (HD) patients’ quality of life.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to assess the effect of virtual reality (VR) distraction on pain, anxiety, satisfaction and haemodynamics during AVF puncture.

Methods:

This randomised controlled trial study was conducted in a Haemodialysis unit at Mansoura University Hospital. Ninety-six patients were randomly divided into the intervention ( n = 48) and control ( n = 48) groups. Six minutes prior to the puncture, patients in the intervention group used VR glasses to experience a 360° ‘Relax River VR tour’, whereas patients in the control group received no intervention.

Results:

Following the intervention, pain, anxiety, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were significantly lower, and satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

VR distraction may help alleviate pain, anxiety and increase satisfaction. It may be considered a safe and cost-effective non-pharmacological therapy for HD patients undergoing AVF puncture.
Predictors of labor pain management among pregnant women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Geltore Teketel Ermias , Hadaro Tesfahun Simon , Oshine Woldetsadik , Bekele Merkin , Foto Lakew Lafebo
Published: September 2024

Background:

Labor pain is the nastiest conceivable pain women are involved in during labor and delivery. In this way, the end of labor pain is frequently outlined by myths and equivocalness. Hence, giving a compelling absence of pain in labor remained a challenge specifically in developing countries including Ethiopia.

Objectives:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore the pooled prevalence of labor analgesia and associated factors to pregnant women in Ethiopia.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis were utilized in agreement with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews.

Data Sources:

PubMed/Medline, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Web of Science, Google Scholars, and the Cochrane Library and supplemented it with manual were deliberately looked at until January 1–30, 2024.

Methods:

Two authors independently extricated all principal information utilizing standardized data extraction designs, and the analysis was done utilizing STATA version 17. Heterogeneity over the studies was evaluated utilizing I2 measurement. The funnel plot and Egger’s weighted regression tests were utilized to assess subjective and objective publication biases respectively. Also, the pooled effect of labor pain management and the associations were evaluated utilizing a random-effects model.

Results:

The general pooled prevalence of labor analgesia in the present study was 23.3% with a (95% confidence interval (CI): 13.5, 33.1). Maternal age (odds ratio (OR): 1.91; 95% CI: 1.11, 2.77), parity of the mother (OR: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.63), history of pregnancy misfortune (OR: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.36), length of labor (OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.06, 3.13), and awareness about labor analgesia (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 0.34, 3.49) were significantly related with labor analgesia among pregnant women in Ethiopia.

Conclusions:

The generally pooled prevalence of labor analgesia among pregnant women in Ethiopia was low. Maternal age, parity of the mother, history of pregnancy loss, length of labor, and awareness of labor analgesia were factors influencing labor analgesia among pregnant women in Ethiopia. This finding proposes exceptional consideration to make laboring mothers free of pain by scaling up the strategies and utilizing labor pain administration in a way that universally recognized standards are met.

Registration number:

PROSPERO CRD: 42024525636
Understanding HIV service preferences of South African women 30–49 years old missing from or linked to care: An exploratory study of Gauteng and Limpopo provinces
Authors: Moolla Aneesa , Galvin Michael , Mongwenyana Constance , Miot Jacqui , Magolego William , Leshabana Patricia , Ngcobo Nkosinathi , Naidoo Nalini , Coetzee Lezanie
Published: September 2024

Background:

The HIV epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa has a disproportionate gender impact, with women bearing the brunt of the epidemic. South Africa carries the largest share of the global HIV burden, with similar trends seen for women due to unequal socio-cultural and economic status.

Objectives:

This study aims to understand 30–49 year-old women’s barriers and facilitators to accessing HIV services in order to maximize health in resource limited settings and reach women missing from HIV care.

Design:

Employing a convenience sampling strategy, we recruited, informed, and consented participants at clinics and public areas. Interviews were conducted in respondent’s preferred languages, transcribed verbatim, translated into English if needed, and thematically analyzed using grounded theory.

Methods:

We conducted 81 interviews with women aged 30–49 either missing from care ( n = 21), having unknown HIV status ( n = 30) or linked to care ( n = 30) within two sites: City of Johannesburg district, Gauteng Province and Mopani district, Limpopo Province.

Results:

Participants missing from care reported negative staff attitudes, queues, family rejection, medication side effects, and painful blood tests as key deterrents. Participants with an unknown status were deterred by fear of being diagnosed as HIV positive and family rejection, which was similar to women missing from care who often dropped out from care due to actual family rejection. Participants linked to care reported that long queues and staff shortages were challenges but stayed in care due to a will to live for themselves and their children, in addition to counselling and feeling emotionally supported. Interestingly, participants missing from care often accessed medication from friends but, similarly to those with unknown status, noted that they would access care if attended to by supportive nurses and by having non-clinical HIV services.

Conclusions:

The accounts of women in this research highlight significant improvements needed to address inequities in the fight against HIV in South Africa. Additionally, the healthcare service access preferences of women aged 30–49 need to be further explored quantitatively in order to design policy relevant interventions.
A rapid review of the benefits and challenges of dynamic consent
Authors: Lay Winnie , Gasparini Loretta , Siero William , Hughes Elizabeth K
Published: September 2024

Dynamic consent is increasingly recommended for longitudinal and biobanking research; however, the value of investing in such systems is unclear. We undertook a rapid review of the benefits and challenges of implementing dynamic consent by searching five databases (Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature – CINAHL) for articles published up to May 2023 that report on participants’ or researchers’ experience of dynamic consent. From 1611 papers screened, 12 met inclusion criteria. Guided by thematic analysis with an inductive approach, we synthesised 31 benefits and 8 challenges. Benefits included: enhanced participant experience through improved consent management and tailoring; greater participant engagement and retention through increased autonomy, trust and communication; reduced costs and burden and increased accessibility and inclusivity. Participants and researchers also valued additional features that dynamic consent platforms facilitate such as two-way communication and return of research updates. The main challenges included the digital divide and consent fatigue. The papers gave recommendations to mitigate these challenges, for example by supplementing with other communication tools and allowing a broad consent approach, respectively. Overall, dynamic consent was described as a valuable consent approach with many benefits and some surmountable challenges. Most included literature was qualitative, so further research is needed to quantify the impact of dynamic consent on recruitment, retention, and participant experience. Further long-term investigations are necessary to explore whether participants want to and do change their consent over time, as well as the impact of dynamic consent on participant privacy.
Effects of coaches' authentic leadership on athletes' training competition satisfaction: The mediating roles of psychological ownership and athlete engagement
Authors: Zhang Yingjie , Fan Rong
Published: September 2024

Coaching leadership greatly impacts athletes’ mental health and wellbeing. Although research shows a positive link between authentic leadership and athlete satisfaction, studies on specific subdimensions are limited. This study examines the influence of authentic leadership on athlete engagement and performance, utilizing a conditional process model to explore the mediating effects of psychological ownership and athlete engagement. A survey of 381 athletes (274 male, 107 female; Mage = 19.98; SD = 2.48) from team and individual sports found that perceived authentic leadership positively correlates with training competition satisfaction, psychological ownership, and athlete engagement. Structural equation modeling revealed that psychological ownership and athlete engagement significantly mediate this relationship. Thus, authentic leadership directly and indirectly enhances athletes’ satisfaction.
Assembling Hyperpop: Genre Formation on Wikipedia
Authors: Bates Eliot , Delphis Sophie , Moraes Romulo , Santoli Julia
Published: September 2024

In this article, we analyze how a music genre is reciprocally defined online, through the crowdsourced ‘facts’ of Wikipedia. What are the traditional implicit and explicit exclusionary practices in this sort of genre formation? And how can internet-specific sociabilities create new exclusionary practices in the process of defining music? By analyzing the edit history of Wikipedia’s ‘hyperpop’ page, we locate ongoing debates, controversies, and contestations that point to shaping forces around online genre formation. These potentially have a huge impact on how hyperpop is understood both inside and outside of the music community. In locating the most active editors of the hyperpop Wikipedia page and scrutinizing their edit histories as well as the discussions on the hyperpop page itself, we uncovered debates about artistic notability, biases toward specific sources, and attempts at associating or dissociating musical genre from non-musical identities (such as race, gender, and nationality). In sum, we aimed to investigate the main controversies involved in the Wikipedia definition of hyperpop for what they can tell us about both the process of online genre formation and the very nature of collective knowledge-making spaces.
Discharge from the intensive care unit: Straight home or go to ward? A comparison of their admission and discharge characteristics
Authors: Amada Hayaka , Jerred Patrick , Thomas Joanna , Turton Peter Adam
Published: September 2024

More patients are discharged directly to home (DDH) after intensive care admission. This single-centre study compared admission characteristics, length of stay and discharge outcomes of DDH patients after mechanical ventilation, compared to patients discharged to wards (DW). Of 161 eligible patients, 32.9% were DDH and 68.1% were DW. DDH patients were significantly younger with lower APACHE II scores. They were ventilated for a shorter length of time, and overall length of stay was 7 days shorter. Physical function scores (CPAx) were significantly higher in DDH. There were no differences in re-admission or 90-day mortality. In certain patients, discharge direct to home may be a safe option.
Measuring bile acids: Are we all talking the same language?
Authors: Markus Corey , Hague WM “Bill”
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we discuss the Bile Acid Comparison and Harmonisation project, a sub-study of the Trial of URsodeoxycholic acid vs RIFampicin in early-onset severe Intrahepatic Cholestasis of pregnancy, giving an overview of the current state of affairs for total bile acid measurements.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: Introduction and overview 2024
Authors: Hague WM “Bill” , Williamson Catherine , Beuers Ulrich
Published: September 2024

Considerable progress has been made to explain the aetiology of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) and of the adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with high maternal total serum bile acids (TSBAs). The reported thresholds for non-fasting TSBA associated with the risk of stillbirth and spontaneous preterm birth can be used to identify pregnancies at risk of these adverse outcomes to decide on appropriate interventions and to give reassurance to women with lower concentrations of TSBA. Data also support the use of ursodeoxycholic acid to protect against the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. A previous history of ICP may be associated with higher rates of subsequent hepatobiliary disease: if there is a suspicion of underlying susceptibility, clinicians caring for women with ICP should screen for associated disorders or for genetic susceptibility and, where appropriate, refer for ongoing hepatology review.
High serum levels of ustekinumab are associated with better clinical outcomes during maintenance treatment for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: González-Antuña Jaime , Valdés-Delgado Teresa , Maldonado-Pérez Belén , Belvis-Jiménez María , Castro-Laria Luisa , Merino-Bohórquez Vicente , Calleja-Hernández Miguel Ángel , Castro-Martínez Paula , Charpentier Cloe , Argüelles-Arias Federico
Published: September 2024

Background:

Ustekinumab (UST) is an effective treatment option in Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). However, it still remains unclear if therapeutic drug monitoring could be helpful to guide clinicians.

Objectives:

The aim of our study was to analyze the relationship between UST through levels (USTTL) and clinical outcomes in real-world inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.

Design:

We performed a unicentric retrospective study including patients with IBD under UST treatment with at least one level determination.

Methods:

The following variables were analyzed at the initiation of UST and at each USTTL measurement: clinical response and remission using the Harvey–Bradshaw Index (HBI) for CD and the Partial Mayo Score (pMayo) for UC; biochemical response and remission using fecal calprotectin and C-reactive protein, among others. Two periods were considered: P1 (time between induction and the first determination of USTTL) and P2 (time between USTTL1 and the second determination of USTTL).

Results:

We included 125 patients, 117 with CD. In P1, 62.4% of patients were on subcutaneous maintenance, and the median USTTL1 was 3.1 μg/mL (1.6–5.3). In 44.8% of CD patients (48/117), clinical remission was achieved, with USTTL1 significantly higher than those who did not achieve remission (3.7 μg/mL (2.3–5.4) vs 2.3 μg/mL (1.1–5.2); p = 0.04). In the 46 patients with two determinations, statistically significant differences were found between variables in P2 versus P1: clinical remission (73.9% vs 21.7%; p = 0.001); USTTL (7.2 μg/mL (4.7–11.7) vs 3.4 μg/mL (1.9–6.4); p < 0.001), HBI (4 (4–4.3) vs 8 (4–9); p < 0.001), pMayo (1 (1–3.3) vs 4.5 (3–5); p = 0.042), and corticosteroid use (26.1% vs 41.3%; p = 0.024). Receiver-Operating-Characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for clinical remission in P2, with USTTL cutoff value of 6.34 μg/mL for clinical remission and a high rate of intensified patients (98%).

Conclusion:

High serum levels of UST were associated with clinical remission during treatment for IBD under intensification treatment, with a cutoff point of 6.3 μg/mL.
Advancing treatment efficacy: combined therapy of eribulin, anlotinib, and camrelizumab in advanced or metastatic retroperitoneal liposarcoma
Authors: Jia Weiwei , Wu Jianhui , Zhang Hongtao , Wu Yan , Liu Daoning , Wang Zhen , Wang Xiaopeng , Li Chengpeng , Hao Chunyi
Published: September 2024

Background:

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLPS) typically shows limited response to standard chemotherapy, presenting a challenge in treating advanced or metastatic RLPS.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the potential advantages of a combined therapeutic strategy utilizing eribulin, anlotinib, and camrelizumab.

Design:

Between December 2020 and March 2023, this retrospective study enrolled patients with advanced or metastatic RLPS who received treatment at Peking University Cancer Hospital Sarcoma Center. The treatment regimen involved eribulin plus anlotinib and camrelizumab administered every 3 weeks (Q3W).

Methods:

Efficacy was assessed following the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1, while safety was evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0.

Results:

The study included 47 patients with RLPS with a median age of 55.5 years. Patients received a median of 4.5 (range, 2–21) cycles of treatment. Notably, partial response was observed in 8 patients (18.2%), while 25 (56.8%) exhibited stable disease. The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate were 18.2% and 75%, respectively. Significant differences in ORR were observed among histological subtypes (well-differentiated vs de-differentiated vs myxoid: 0 vs 17.9% vs 50%; p = 0.039). Six patients underwent surgery before disease progression, and one patient with myxoid liposarcoma (MLPS) had a pathological complete response. With a median follow-up of 21.8 (range, 2.7–30.7) months, the median progression-free survival (mPFS) was 6.9 (95% confidence interval (CI), 4.7–9.1) months, and the 6-month PFS rate was 60.5%. Based on various histological subtypes, the mPFS was 8.4 (95% CI, 4.1–12.7) months with well-differentiated liposarcoma, 5.8 (95% CI, 3.3–8.3) months with de-differentiated liposarcoma and not reached with MLPS, respectively. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) of any grade occurred in 36 (76.6%) patients, with grade 3 or higher TRAEs in 21 (44.7%) patients. The most common TRAEs were neutropenia (53.2%), proteinuria (21.3%), and anorexia (21.3%).

Conclusion:

The combined treatment strategy involving eribulin, anlotinib, and camrelizumab showed promising efficacy and manageable safety in patients with advanced or metastatic RLPS, particularly in those with MLPS.
Femoral neck–shaft angle changes based on the severity of neurologic impairment in children with cerebral palsy and spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Almeida da Silva Luiz Carlos , Hori Yusuke , Kaymaz Burak , Rogers Kenneth J , Trionfo Arianna , Bowen James Richard , Howard Jason J , Shrader Michael Wade , Miller Freeman
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle in children with varying levels of neurological disability were evaluated to define change over different ages.

Methods:

Children aged 1–12 years with spastic cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy types 1 and 2, or typical development were reviewed to evaluate the neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle. Patients were divided into five groups: Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II, Gross Motor Function Classification System level III, Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V, spinal muscular atrophy types 1 and 2, and typical development. A linear mixed model was utilized to evaluate neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle.

Results:

Data from 196 children (mean age 4.8 ± 4.5 years) were included. Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II: 22 children, 130 hip radiographs measured, neck–shaft angle 143.7 ± 7.4, and head–shaft angle 160.0 ± 7.1. Gross Motor Function Classification System level III: 8 children, 33 hips evaluated, neck–shaft angle 153.1 ± 4.3, and head–shaft angle 163.4 ± 4.2. Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V: 30 children, 137 hip radiographs measured, neck–shaft angle 156.4 ± 5.6, and head–shaft angle 167.9 ± 6.8. Spinal muscular atrophy types 1 and 2: 32 children, 83 hip radiographs measured, neck–shaft angle 161.9 ± 9.7, and head–shaft angle 173.4 ± 7.4. Typical development: 104 children, 222 hip radiographs measured, neck–shaft angle 138.6 ± 7.0, and head–shaft angle 156.4 ± 5.9. There were significant statistical differences when comparing neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle.

Conclusion:

As children grow, neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle tend to decrease in typical development and Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I and II groups. However, in low-tone (spinal muscular atrophy types 1 and 2) and high-tone groups (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V), neck–shaft angle and head–shaft angle tend to increase with age. In both low-tone and high-tone groups, coxa valga is observed. When evaluating the effect of proximal femur-guided growth, these defined normal growth patterns should be considered.

Level of Evidence:

Level III Retrospective comparative study.
Abutilon theophrasti Medic.: A Review of its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Li Lu , Pang Linnuo , Chen Fei , Zhang Luming , Zhou Fen , Li Rongrong , Yan Han
Published: September 2024

Abutilon theophrasti Medic.( (A. theophrasti, Malvaceae) has been recognized for its ethnopharmacological values for a long time. Various studies of A. theophrasti have demonstrated that different extracts from this species exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, antitumor, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory analgesia activities. Until now, more than 100 kinds of phytochemical compounds have been isolated and identified in various parts of A. theophrasti including flavonoids, fatty acid, essential oil, and others. In the present review, we have been trying to summarize an up-to-date research on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and pharmacokinetics of A. theophrasti. Consequently, a significant and broad overview on the current knowledge of A. theophrasti is provided to explore its clinical therapeutic potential.
Chemical Analysis and Biological Activities of Various Parts of Securidaca longipedunculata From South Africa
Authors: Shai Kamogelo , Hassan Zahra Battal , Lebelo Segolo , Ng’ambi Jones Wilfred , Mabelebele Monnye , Sebola Nthabiseng Amenda
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective of our study was to investigate the chemical composition and the biological activities of different parts of Securidaca longipedunculata from South Africa.

Methodologies

The chemical analysis methods, including chromatography and spectroscopy, were employed to identify the diverse array of compounds present in the roots, leaves, and stems of S longipedunculata.

Results

The proximate analysis revealed that the leaf extracts had higher ( P < .05) crude protein, gross energy, and ether extract contents when compared to the stem bark and the root bark. A similar trend was observed with the mineral analysis where copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc were in abundance in the leaves. Concurrently, bioassays reveal significant biological activities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, associated with these plant parts. The extracts demonstrated high lipid peroxidation inhibitory activity at the concentration of 250 μg/mL, with the highest percentage inhibition of 94% recorded in the dark leaf extract, followed by 92% and 73% at the concentrations of 125 and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. The antimicrobial analysis revealed that the root bark extract was active against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis with the average minimum inhibitory concentration of 1.67 mg/mL (dark type) and 0.63 mg/mL (light type).

Conclusion

Our findings emphasize the medicinal potential of S longipedunculata and underscore the importance of understanding its chemical makeup in explaining its therapeutic effects. This research provides valuable insights into the pharmacological properties of S longipedunculata, offering a foundation for further exploration in drug development and natural product discovery.
A Systematic Review of Medicinal Plants and Their Compounds Validated as Agents for the Management of Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Amponsah Isaac Kingsley , Opoku-Kwabi Denzel , Armah Francis Ackah , Addotey John Nii , Turkson Bernard Kofi , Kontoh Emmanuel Quaye
Published: September 2024

Some plants used in traditional medicine to manage sickle cell disease have been validated pharmacologically to ascertain their anti-sickling properties. However, there is no global systematic review of the evidence in support of their use for sickle cell management. This research aimed to conduct a systematic review of the pharmacological evidence to highlight species, genera, and some phytochemicals which could be primed for novel anti-sickling medications. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used. Articles in English, published from 2000 to 2022 were included in the analysis. The literature search covered 411 publications of which 82 were found to be eligible. More than half (53.65%) of the articles were published from 2016 to 2022. Anti-sickling research from Africa accounted for 86.58% of the publications, with more than half coming from Nigeria, 12.20% from Asia and only 1.22% from Europe. The Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, and Annonaceae were the top three plant families whereas Zanthoxylum and Terminalia were the most reported genera. Carica papaya and Terminalia catappa were the most reported species. Sickling reversal ( n = 33/82) and hemoglobin polymerization studies ( n = 29/82) were the most reported assays. Benzoic acid derivatives, butyl stearate, ellagic acid derivatives, and some pentacyclic triterpenoids were the only plant derived compounds validated for anti-sickling activities. A total of 117 plant species with anti-sickling activities were documented. Studies on secondary metabolites with anti-sickling properties to serve as scaffolds for novel drug development for sickle cell management were limited.
Cimifugin Improves Motor Function Through Suppression of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in an Animal Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Lee Ji Yun , Kim Min Jae , Choi Byung Tae , Yun Young Ju , Lee Seo-Yeon , Shin Hwa Kyoung
Published: September 2024

Objective: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and persistent neuroinflammation in the substantia nigra (SN), triggering a dopamine deficiency that can lead to movement disorders. Neuroinflammation is a common feature of aging brains and neurodegenerative diseases. Inflammasome-related neuroinflammation is involved in the progression of PD. Methods: The effects of cimifugin was investigated in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced mouse model of PD. Cimifugin is one of the main components of Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz.) Schischkin. Behavioral tests, such as the rotarod, pole, and traction tests, were conducted to measure the recovery effects of Parkinson-related motor deficiencies. Results: Our analyses showed that cimifugin treatment mitigates motor dysfunction in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, cimifugin conferred neuroprotection by increasing the survival of dopaminergic neurons, as measured by tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining. Neuroinflammation was reduced by cimifugin by inhibiting NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3)/caspase-1/interleukin 1β signaling in the MPTP-insulted SN. Moreover, monosodium urate crystals, an NLRP3 agonist, reversed cimifugin-induced improvement in motor function in the PD model. Conclusion: These results suggest that cimifugin administration is a potential therapeutic strategy for mitigating PD.
Inhibitory Mechanism of the Oregano Essential Oil on the Growth and Biofilm Formation of Streptococcus mutans
Authors: Wu Kegang , Huang Yuqiang , Zhang Tong , Chai Xianghua , Duan Xuejuan
Published: September 2024

Objective: The objective was to determine the in vitro antibacterial effect of the Oregano essential oil (OEO) on Streptococcus mutans ( S mutans) and to explore the anti-biofilm effect and mechanism of OEO. Methods: The in vitro antibacterial susceptibility of OEO was detected by the growth curve and colony-forming unit (CFU) counting method. Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and crystal violet assay were used to explore the anti-biofilm activity of OEO, and the anti-biofilm mechanism was explored from the aspects of extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) synthesis, acidoid, and extracellular DNA changes. OEO was characterized using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer and cytotoxicity was tested using a cell counting Kit-8 assay. Results: The minimum inhibitory concentration of OEO was 0.25 mg/mL, and the CFU showed the ability of OEO to kill planktonic bacteria. Scanning electron microscopy and CLSM showed that OEO could hinder the development of biofilms, harm bacteria, and eliminate mature biofilms by changing EPS synthesis and pH value. Carvacrol in OEO played a major role in biological antibacterial activity. OEO had low cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility. Conclusions: OEO had excellent antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects on the key virulence traits of S mutans, indicating potential prospects in preventing dental caries.
Premorbid Incidence of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders in Facial Trauma Patients
Authors: Derakhshan Adeeb , Archibald Hunter , Dresner Harley S. , Shaye David A. , Hilger Peter A. , Lyford Pike Sofia , Gadkaree Shekhar K.
Published: September 2024

Study Design

A retrospective study.

Objective

Facial trauma is a prevalent cause of morbidity and mortality with increasing incidence over recent decades. Few studies have examined the prevalence of mental health and substance abuse disorders at the time of diagnosis. Herein we investigate the psychosocial demographics associated with facial trauma.

Methods

The 2016 State Inpatient Database (SID) was used to identify patients with facial trauma from all hospitals in New York, Florida, and Maryland. A non-trauma control group undergoing elective same-day surgeries at ambulatory surgical centers in Florida, Kentucky, Nevada, North Carolina, New York, and Maryland was identified using the State Ambulatory Surgery and Services Database (SASD) from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP). 777 patients were identified with facial trauma and compared to 500 patients without facial fractures.

Results

Patients with facial fractures were statistically significantly more likely to have a substance abuse disorder (OR 34.78, P < .001) or mental health disorder (OR 2.75, P < .001) compared to controls. Patients with facial fractures were significantly more likely to be black than white (OR 4.80, P < .001). Patients with facial fractures were significantly more likely to have Medicaid compared to Medicare (OR 2.12, P = .005).

Conclusions

Patients with facial fractures are more likely to have premorbid substance abuse and mental health disorders as compared to controls.
Beyond profit: A model framework for ethical and feasible private prison labour
Authors: Guido Mario
Published: September 2024

In response to increased interest from states and companies as well as momentum on the issue of private prison labour in the past few decades, this article offers a comprehensive model framework aimed at reconciling profit-driven objectives with prisoner rehabilitation. The article addresses the debate surrounding prison labour for private for-profit entities and proposes a model that attempts to remedy some of the issues and criticisms that arise from the practice. Drawing on the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) of the International Labour Organisation, the framework integrates certain provisions from the standard, emphasising public supervision, consent and labour guarantees. Equally, it tries to address concerns of unfair competition and job displacement while promoting ‘meaningful' work and encouraging post-release employment of prisoners. Recognising the need for some practical feasibility and in a bid to shift the incentives for private entities to employ prisoners, from ‘cheap’ labour to fairer work practices, the model argues that other benefits such as tax breaks or subsidies may help align private and rehabilitative goals. As governments have turned to the private sector to increase work opportunities for prisoners, this paper argues that a more equitable and rehabilitative approach should follow, representative of societal values.
Resocialisation through prisoner remuneration: The unconstitutionally low remuneration of working prisoners in Germany
Authors: Azinović Miriam
Published: September 2024

In Germany, prisoners are obliged to work during their imprisonment in most federal states. However, prisoners currently receive very little remuneration for this work. For two decades, this remuneration has stagnated at a low level or even decreased in some federal states. In a landmark ruling on 20 June 2023, Germany's highest court, the Bundesverfassungsgericht (BVerfG, Germany's Federal Constitutional Court), recognised that the remuneration in two federal states is unconstitutionally low. As a result, for the first time in 25 years, the remuneration of prisoners will now change and – hopefully – increase significantly.
Work in prison: Reintegration or exclusion and exploitation?
Authors: Mantouvalou Virginia
Published: September 2024

Work opportunities in prison can be valuable for the incarcerated. However, prison labour presents significant challenges because of its location behind prison walls away from the public eye, where prison authorities exercise unprecedented power over individuals. Even though work is not part of prisoners’ punishment in Europe, it is often compulsory. What is also striking is that in many legal orders prisoners are excluded from labour rights that other workers have. Unlike work outside prison, the legal regulation of prison work constitutes it as an instrument of exclusion from life outside prison rather than a path towards reintegration in society, and creates structures of exploitation. In this article I examine the value of work in prison and consider the exclusion of working prisoners from labour rights that other workers have. I also scrutinise some typical justifications of these exclusions of working prisoners. I propose that work in prison should be regulated in line with the purpose of reintegration in society and according to European and international human rights standards on prisons.
Who am I? Whom can I love? And why me? Queer Christians and the spirituality of struggle
Authors: Cornelio Jayeel S. , Dagle Robbin Charles M.
Published: September 2024

How do queer Christians navigate the tensions between faith and sexuality? This article points to the spirituality of struggle as an answer. In the context of the Philippines, a society known for its religious and moral conservatism, we define this spirituality as an ongoing process in which queer Christians aspire to discover and fulfill God’s will for their lives. We explain this spirituality in the form of three questions we gathered from our interlocutors: Who am I? Whom can I love? And why me? Taken together, these questions reflect the deepest concerns they have about faith and sexuality. Recognizing the spirituality of struggle offers significant contributions to studying religion and gender in the Philippines: by recognizing queer religious identities as dynamic, negotiated acts steeped in ambivalence and by serving as an empirical counterpoint to the militant Christianity in the country. These insights are drawn from semi-structured interviews with sixty-six young adults who self-identify as non-heterosexual men. They are also from different Christian denominations in the Greater Manila Area.
Evaluation of the gastric conduit perfusion using indocyanine green in thoracoscopic esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Van Tiep Nguyen , Trong Hoe Nguyen , Thanh Son Le , Gia Khanh Ngo , Van Hiep Pham , Van Du Nguyen , To Hoai Nguyen , Anh Tuan Nguyen
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Indocyanine green has been used in the assessment of the gastric conduit perfusion in thoracoscopic esophagectomy to prevent malperfusion-associated anastomotic leak. This study aims to evaluate the initial results of investigating the gastric conduit perfusion with indocyanine green in the surgical treatment of esophageal cancer.

Patients and methods:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 54 esophageal cancer patients undergoing thoracoscopic esophagectomy and gastric conduit reconstruction. The blood flow in the gastric conduit was observed using an infrared camera and indocyanine green after completion of the conduit and after tunneling the conduit through the mediastinum to the neck.

Results:

The gastric conduit width and length were 5.2 ± 0.3 cm, and 31.5 ± 1.6 cm, respectively. The length of the gastric conduit from the junction between the right and left gastroepiploic to the point where the distal end of the gastric conduit still has a vascular pulse was 11.9 ± 4.3 cm. Seventeen patients (31.5%) had poor blood supply at the distal end of the gastric conduit, with indocyanine green appearance time ⩾ 60 s, in whom anastomotic leaks occurred in five patients (9.3%). The lack of connection between the right and left gastroepiploic vessels was associated with poor blood supply of the distal gastric conduit ( p = 0.04). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed association between the time of indocyanine green appearance at the distal gastric conduit and the risk of anastomotic leak (OR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.10–3.60, p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Investigation of gastric conduit perfusion using indocyanine green in gastric conduit reconstruction detected 31.5% of patients with poor blood supply at the distal end of the conduit, in whom 9.3% had anastomotic leak. The longer indocyanine green appearance time in the distal gastric conduit (segment BC), was associated with the higher rate of the anastomotic leak.
Perception, experience, and practice of Iraqi community pharmacists towards customers with substance use disorder
Authors: Mikhael Ehab Mudher , Jebur Nisreen Jumaah , Jamal Mohammed Yawuz , Hameed Tabarak Arkan
Published: September 2024

Background:

Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who frequently encounter individuals struggling with addiction in their day-to-day practice. Studies critique pharmacists’ competence in the detection, prevention, and management of substance use disorder.

Objective:

This study aimed to get in-depth information about the perception, experience, and practice of Iraqi pharmacists towards substance use disorder.

Methods:

A qualitative-study was performed through face-to-face individual-based interviews with community pharmacists in Baghdad/Iraq. Interviews were conducted from July 2023 till the saturation point (September 2023). Data analyzed by thematic-analysis approach.

Results:

Interviews were conducted with 21 pharmacists. Most participants reported that substance use disorder is common among young males. Pregabalin is the most commonly requested drug. Availability, euphoric-effect, and low cost are the main reasons for favoring a drug by persons with substance use disorder. Moreover, poverty and social problems are the main reasons for substance use disorder. Drug intoxication signs are the main clues in recognizing substance use disorder. Most participants refuse dispensing drugs without prescription and reported that the barriers for implementing regulations on drugs with high potential for dependence are related to the limited follow-up to pharmacists, presence of outsiders, and fear from reactions of persons with substance use disorder. Pharmaceutical services to persons with substance use disorder were performed by few pharmacists and limited to patient education about the risks of misusing drugs. Most participants reported that enhancing pharmacists’ competence in substance use disorder is necessary.

Conclusion:

Substance use disorder is common among young Iraqi males. Pregabalin is a commonly requested drug. The current Iraqi regulations are not sufficient to prevent substance use disorder. Pharmaceutical services to persons with substance use disorder are weak and limited to patient education. Enhancing pharmacists’ knowledge through educational courses is necessary to improve their role in facing substance use disorder.