bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of Verapamil for radial access in diagnostic cerebrovascular angiograms: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Romeo Dominic , Salem Mohamed M. , Sioutas Georgios S. , Corral Tarbay Antonio , Ng Jinggang Jenny , Aboutaleb Pakinam E. , Srinivasan Visish M. , Pukenas Bryan , Jankowitz Brian T. , Burkhardt Jan-Karl
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Different combinations of medications are utilized during wrist access for radial artery (RA) or ulnar artery (UA) catheterization in neuroendovascular procedures to preclude vasospasm. These “cocktails” commonly include the calcium channel blocker Verapamil, without established benefit. We analyze outcomes in patients with and without Verapamil in their “cocktail” by using a case-control cohort of our single-center experience.

Methods

A prospective log of consecutive patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiograms using RA/UA access was retrospectively reviewed, and patients were grouped into Verapamil and non-Verapamil cohorts. The primary outcomes assessed were the presence of forearm skin rashes (hives) and RA/UA spasms. Our initial management included Verapamil (5 mg) in the cocktail, but Verapamil was removed after we noticed the development of hives in multiple patients immediately following its injection.

Results

A total of 221 patients underwent 241 RA/UA diagnostic cerebral angiograms and were included in our analysis. One hundred and forty-nine patients (61.8%) underwent catheterization with Verapamil and 92 (38.2%) were catheterized without it. Four of the 149 patients in the Verapamil group (2.7%) developed hives during the procedure and were treated with Benadryl (25 mg). Of the 92 patients who did not receive Verapamil, there were zero (0%) cases of hives and one (1.1%) case of vasospasm.

Conclusion

Verapamil in the “cocktail” for wrist access diagnostic cerebral angiograms was associated with periprocedural hives, but not associated with a significant reduction in spasm compared to the non-Verapamil group. Our findings suggest that the administration of prophylactic Verapamil for these procedures may not be necessary.
Intra-arterial lidocaine therapy via the middle meningeal artery for migraine headache: Theory, current practice and future directions
Authors: Mancuso-Marcello Marco , Qureshi Adnan I. , Nikola Christos , Stoian Irina , Jia YiFan , Saeed Danial , Bhogal Pervinder
Published: August 2023

Recent developments in neurointerventional research have seen the emergence of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) as an effective conduit for intra-arterial (IA) therapy for a number of pathologies. Here, we review the anatomical, pathophysiological and experimental basis for utilisation of the MMA for IA treatment of migraine headache. We explore the in-human case literature for the treatment of headaches with IA lidocaine and discuss considerations and challenges for future research.
Opportunities for Emotion Research on Biodiversity
Authors: Brick Cameron , Nielsen Kristian Steensen , Hofmann Wilhelm
Published: August 2023

We see unique opportunities to advance emotional research by studying an overlooked environmental problem. The biodiversity crisis is caused by land use, in particular by reducing and damaging habitats, such as deforestation for cattle grazing. Biodiversity processes are proximate and personally moving, like when a person is causing or experiencing changes to livelihood-providing ecosystems, and we suggest this affect-rich context is useful for studying social and psychological processes. In contrast, much research on far-away populations thinking about climate change effects involves more abstract and distant cognitions. We also suggest biodiversity-related emotions have consequential outcomes for health and behavior, and provide advice for shaping research programs on specific populations and wildlife interactions.
Endovascular treatment of traumatic anterior communicating artery-cavernous sinus fistula
Authors: Yu Jinlu
Published: August 2023

Traumatic anterior communicating artery (AcomA)-cavernous sinus (CS) fistula is rare. Flow diverter (FD) deployment associated with coiling may be an alternative but has never been reported. We reported such a case. A 61-year-old man who was involved in a traffic accident presented with progressive exophthalmos for 2 weeks. Digital subtraction angiography showed a fistula between the AcomA and CS. First, the fistula was coiled. Then, the FD was deployed to cover the rupture point of the AcomA. The fistula was obliterated. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well, and his eye symptoms disappeared. Follow-up angiography showed no recurrence of the fistula. Therefore, for traumatic AcomA-CS fistula, FD deployment associated with coiling may be a feasible alternative.
To whom does geography owe a future? Lessons from urban studies
Authors: Roast Asa
Published: August 2023

The stresses of the neoliberal academy relating to the precaritisation of labour and metricisation of research can often make it difficult in the present to envision a future of geographical thought and praxis which is capable of addressing the past and present epistemic injustices which human geography has inherited. Within the field of urban studies, the discourse of ‘urban futures’ has often been used to promise a more just and efficient future. This commentary takes the often-evoked notion of an urban future and considers how recent research in urban studies has sought to deconstruct the notion of the ‘urban’ in order to illustrate the complex and antagonistic present underlying such futures. Here urban studies has an analogous lesson for human geography more generally. Disaggregating the identity of ‘geographer’ from academic status and training can open up new practices for the co-production of knowledge beyond professional boundaries, which themselves can also aid in the creation of more just urban futures.
Homeless food delivery riders and their transportal home in Shanghai's lockdown
Authors: Fu Pengfei , Liao Chengxi , Yu Haiqing
Published: August 2023

This article draws on the concept of “transportal home” to examine the intersection of mobile media, mobility, and place-making among homeless food delivery workers in the Shanghai lockdown. Shanghai's lockdown lasted from February 28 to May 31, 2022, and was one of the strictest in China, resulting in thousands of food delivery riders being locked out of their homes, treated as potential carriers of the virus, and forced to sleep on the streets until the lockdown was lifted. The article uses qualitative research methods to explore the COVID-related homelessness of food delivery riders during the lockdown, focusing on their media practices and highlighting their experiences and agency in using mobile media to negotiate their lives amid the (im)mobile mobility they faced. It argues that mobile phones, as a transportal home, can offer a technological imaginary of home out of “homelessness”; however, they also serve as a reminder of the constraints of such an imaginary, as these (temporarily) homeless food delivery riders continue to be subject to platform exploitation and pandemic surveillance.
Computer habits and digital literacy in geriatric patients: A survey
Authors: Jørgensen Bodil B , Gregersen Merete , Pallesen Søren H , Damsgaard Else Marie S
Published: August 2023

Objective

Among hospitalised geriatric patients, only half are computer users. However, many of them refrain from using telehealth solutions. This study aimed to investigate geriatric patients’ computer and Internet habits and digital literacy and their associations with stress levels and frequency of Internet use.

Methods

Inpatients and outpatients aged 65 years or older, all computer users, were consecutively surveyed. Besides information about computer and Internet habits, computer support, and computer stress, the survey also collected information about digital literacy using the electronic Health Literacy Assessment toolkit.

Results

A total of 124 computer users with a mean age of 80.6 ± 7.4 years participated in the study from 1 October to 1 December 2019. Most patients received computer support from their children and grandchildren, whereas 6% did not seek support. They found themselves ‘ most familiar with using a keyboard’ (79%), 59% ‘ were unfamiliar with the Copy Paste function’, and only one-third ‘were open to new ways of using computers’. Digital literacy was associated with the frequency of Internet use ( P = 0.001), and higher digital literacy was associated with less computer stress ( P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Geriatric computer users are challenged by their basic computer skills, which may influence their choice of participation in telehealth solutions. If telehealth solutions are to succeed among geriatric patients, individualised computer support based on their basic computer skills and user-friendly computer devices are a prerequisite. For ongoing support, it is also necessary to introduce people close to the patient to telehealth solutions.
Psychometric properties of the German revised version of the eHealth literacy scale in individuals with cardiac diseases: Validation and test of measurement invariance
Authors: Bäuerle Alexander , Marsall Matthias , Jahre Lisa Maria , Rammos Christos , Mallien Charlotta , Skoda Eva-Maria , Rassaf Tienush , Lortz Julia , Teufel Martin
Published: August 2023

Background

The internet is most people's primary source of (health) information. However, no validated instrument exists to assess eHealth literacy in the group of patient with cardiac diseases.

Objective

The objective of this study was the evaluation of the psychometric properties of the German revised version of the eHealth literacy scale (GR-eHEALS) in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) and congestive heart failure (CHF).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted. N = 455 were included in the statistical analyses. The assessment compromised the GR-eHEALS, medical history, sociodemographic data, and technology-related data. Confirmatory factor analyses, correlational analyses, and tests of measurement invariance were performed.

Results

The two-factorial model reached a good model fit. The sub-scales information seeking and information appraisal, as well as the eHealth literacy total score, reached high reliability coefficients. Construct and criterion validity was fully confirmed For the two-factorial model, measurement invariance up to the scalar level could be confirmed regarding the sociodemographic characteristics sex, age, and educational level.

Conclusions

This study confirmed the two-factor structure, construct, and criterion validity as well as measurement invariance at the scalar level for sex, age, and educational level of the GR-eHEALS scale in a sample of individuals with CAD and CHF.
Assessing cancer-related cognitive function in the context of everyday life using ecological mobile cognitive testing: A protocol for a prospective quantitative study
Authors: Henneghan Ashley M , Van Dyk Kathleen M , Ackerman Robert A , Paolillo Emily W , Moore Raeanne C
Published: August 2023

Objective

Millions of cancer survivors are at risk for cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), yet accurate and accessible assessments of cognitive functioning remain limited. Ecological mobile cognitive testing (EMCT) could offer a solution. This paper presents the protocol for a study that aims to (1) establish the reliability and validity of EMCT to assess CRCI in breast cancer survivors, and (2) prospectively evaluate within-person processes (and interactions) among context, mood, and behavior that explain cognitive variability, everyday functioning, and quality of life of cancer survivors.

Methods

Participants will include breast cancer survivors (>21 years old) who are within 5 years of completing chemotherapy treatment. Participants will complete two virtual visits (baseline, follow-up) 2 months apart to assess self-reported cognitive symptoms and cognitive performance, sociodemographic characteristics, clinical history, everyday functioning, and quality of life. Between virtual visits, EMCT will be used to sample cognitive functioning every other day (28 times total). We will use linear mixed-effect regressions and single-level multiple regression models to analyze the data.

Results

We anticipate a minimum of 124 breast cancer survivors enrolling and completing data collection. Study results will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Conclusions

Our findings will have broad implications for assessing CRCI in an ecologically valid and person-centered way using EMCT. We aim to provide this protocol to aid researchers who would like to apply this approach to their studies.
Effects of Mind-Body Exercises for Osteoporosis in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Haili , Jiang Haobo , Wang Jingye , Zhou Jin , Liang Hao , Chen Guangxue , Guo Zehua , Yang Shaofeng , Zhang Yonghui
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Osteoporosis is a major cause of fractures and even life-threatening fractures in the elderly. Mind-body exercise is a beneficial intervention to improve flexibility, control body balance and reduce pain. We aimed to evaluate the effects of physical and mental exercise on osteoporosis in the elderly.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on mind-body exercises for osteoporosis were included. Web of Science, PubMed, Science Direct, Medline, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang were searched from inception to January 2023. Outcomes included bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), body balance (BB), pain, indicators of bone metabolism (BMI), lower extremity function, fearing level, and quality of life (QOL). The quality of study reporting was rated by 2 reviewers independently, and Review Manager software (version 5.3) was used for meta-analysis.

Results

Thirty-nine trials with 2325 participants were included. The pooled results showed that mind-body exercises have encouraging effect on elderly people with osteoporosis, especially in aspects of BMD, BMC, QOL, improving the function of lower extremity, reducing pain and fearing level. While, dance and eight-section brocade could not improve the quality of life,or dance and eight-section brocade have no effect on BMD.

Conclusions

Mind-body exercises may have potential efficacy for osteoporosis in the elderly. However, due to the poor methodological quality of the included trials, more clinical trials with precise methodological design and rigorous reporting are needed.
Prevotella bivia Septic Arthritis in an Immunocompetent Adult: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Dodin Rakan E. , Thompson Hallie , Storandt Michael H. , Vilenski Leonid , Guerrero Dubert M.
Published: August 2023

Septic arthritis is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis to prevent long-term intra-articular complications. Prevotella bivia is an anaerobic gram-negative rod which has been infrequently reported to cause septic arthritis. We present a 49-year-old female that presented with spontaneous left knee pain and swelling without history of insult to the knee. She was initially misdiagnosed with patellar tendinitis and gout but later underwent joint aspiration due to worsening symptoms, which demonstrated 60 800/µL nucleated cells with a polymorphonuclear burden consistent with septic arthritis. Arthroscopy with irrigation and drainage was subsequently performed, and the patient was started on empiric antibiotics while awaiting cultures. Cultures grew Prevotella bivia, and antibiotics were deescalated to ertapenem alone followed by oral metronidazole. Prevotella species as a source of septic arthritis is rare, and its occurrence in a patient without known insult to the knee is even more uncommon. It is essential that it is recognized to treat appropriately and prevent long-term loss of function in the joint.
Knowing Me, Knowing You: Self-Reflection and Understanding Diversity for Effective Teamwork—A LEGO® Building Activity
Authors: Lambert Neil J. , Luo Xiaoting , Ola Akinyo
Published: August 2023

Effective teamwork is a crucial transferrable skill for students’ learning experience during their studies and future careers. Understanding the making of effective teams, how teams differ from mere groups of individuals, and the potential value and challenges of diversity for team performance is essential for students as current and future team members, leaders, and creators. The LEGO® building activity at the heart of this exercise presents an interactive and engaging way to provide crucial insights and reflection opportunities concerning diversity and teamwork. This activity introduces participants to the value and challenges diversity can raise for teamwork. In addition, it encourages participants to recognize the importance of effective communication, having a common purpose and collective accountability, transparency and information sharing, and psychological safety and trust. The exercise was developed for international postgraduate business and management students in a face-to-face classroom setting. An alternative online activity is also presented.
Republication of “Postoperative Narcotic Prescription Practice in Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery”
Authors: Hearty Thomas M. , Butler Paul , Anderson John , Bohay Donald
Published: August 2023

Background:

The misuse and abuse of opioid pain medications have become a public health crisis. Because orthopedic surgeons are the third highest prescribers of opioids, understanding their postoperative pain medication prescribing practices is key to solving the opioid crisis. To this end, we conducted a study of the variability in orthopedic foot and ankle surgery postoperative opioid prescribing practice patterns.

Methods:

Three hundred fifty orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons were contacted; respondents completed a survey with 4 common patient scenarios and surgical procedures followed by questions regarding typical postoperative pain medication prescriptions. The scenarios ranged from minimally painful procedures to those that would be expected to be significantly more painful. Summaries were calculated as percentages and chi-square or Fisher exact tests were used to compare survey responses between groups stratified by years in practice and type of practice.

Results:

Sixty-four surgeons responded to the survey (92.8% male), 31% were in practice less than 5 years, 34% 6 to 15 years and 34% more than 15 years. For each scenario, there was variation in the type of pain medication prescribed ( scenario 1: 17% 5 mg hydrocodone, 22% 10 mg hydrocodone, 52% oxycodone, and 3% oxycodone sustained release [SR]; scenario 2: 15% 5 mg hydrocodone, 13% 10 mg hydrocodone, 58% oxycodone, and 9% oxycodone SR; scenario 3: 11% 5 mg hydrocodone, 13% 10 mg hydrocodone, 56% oxycodone, and 14.1% oxycodone SR; scenario 4: 3% 5 mg hydrocodone, 5% 10 mg hydrocodone, 44% oxycodone, and 45% oxycodone SR) and the number of pills dispensed. Use of multimodal pain management was variable but most physicians use regional nerve blocks for each scenario (76%, 87%, 69%, 94%). Less experienced surgeons (less than 5 years in practice) supplement with tramadol more for scenario 1 ( P = .034) as well as use regional nerve blocks for scenario 2 ( P = .039) more than experienced surgeons (more than 15 years in practice).

Conclusion:

It is evident that variation exists in narcotic prescription practices for postoperative pain management by orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons. With new AAOS guidelines, it is important to try to create some standardization in opioid prescription protocols.
Assembly and comparative analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Ilex metabaptista (Aquifoliaceae), a Chinese endemic species with a narrow distribution
Authors: Zhou Peng , Zhang Qiang , Li Fei , Huang Jing , Zhang Min
Published: August 2023

Background

Ilex metabaptista is a woody tree species with strong waterlogging tolerance and is also admired as a landscape plant with high development prospects and scientific research value. Unfortunately, populations of this species have declined due to habitat loss. Thus, it is a great challenge for us to efficiently protect I. metabaptista resources from extinction. Molecular biology research can provide the scientific basis for the conservation of species. However, the study of I. metabaptista genetics is still in its infancy. To date, no mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) in the genus Ilex has been analysed in detail.

Results

The mitogenome of I. metabaptista was assembled based on the reads from Illumina and Nanopore sequencing platforms; it was a typical circular DNA molecule of 529,560 bp with a GC content of 45.61% and contained 67 genes, including 42 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes. Repeat sequence analysis and prediction of RNA editing sites revealed a total of 286 dispersed repeats, 140 simple repeats, 18 tandem repeats, and 543 RNA editing sites. Analysis of codon usage showed that codons ending in A/T were preferred. Gene migration was observed to occur between the mitogenome and chloroplast genome via the detection of homologous fragments. In addition, Ka/Ks analysis revealed that most of the protein-coding genes in the mitogenome had undergone negative selection, and only the ccmB gene had undergone potential positive selection in most asterids. Nucleotide polymorphism analysis revealed the variation in each gene, with atp9 being the most notable. Furthermore, comparative analysis showed that the GC contents were conserved, but the sizes and structure of mitogenomes varied greatly among asterids. Phylogenetic analysis based on the mitogenomes reflected the exact evolutionary and taxonomic status of I. metabaptista.

Conclusion

In this study, we sequenced and annotated the mitogenome of I. metabaptista and compared it with the mitogenomes of other asterids, which provided essential background information for further understanding of the genetics of this plant and helped lay the foundation for future studies on molecular breeding of I. metabaptista.
Natural variation in ZmNAC087 contributes to total root length regulation in maize seedlings under salt stress
Authors: Zhang Xiaomin , Wang Houmiao , Yang Mengling , Liu Runxiao , Zhang Xin , Jia Zhongtao , Li Pengcheng
Published: August 2023

Soil salinity poses a significant challenge to crop growth and productivity, particularly affecting the root system, which is vital for water and nutrient uptake. To identify genetic factors that influence root elongation in stressful environments, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to investigate the natural variation associated with total root length (TRL) under salt stress and normal conditions in maize seedlings. Our study identified 69 genetic variants associated with 38 candidate genes, among which a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in ZmNAC087 was significantly associated with TRL under salt stress. Transient expression and transactivation assays revealed that ZmNAC087 encodes a nuclear-localized protein with transactivation activity. Further candidate gene association analysis showed that non-coding variations in ZmNAC087 promoter contribute to differential ZmNAC087 expression among maize inbred lines, potentially influencing the variation in salt-regulated TRL. In addition, through nucleotide diversity analysis, neutrality tests, and coalescent simulation, we demonstrated that ZmNAC087 underwent selection during maize domestication and improvement. These findings highlight the significance of natural variation in ZmNAC087, particularly the favorable allele, in maize salt tolerance, providing theoretical basis and valuable genetic resources for the development of salt-tolerant maize germplasm.
An analysis of racial inequities in emergency department triage among patients with stroke-like symptoms in the United States
Authors: Neves Gabriel , DeToledo John , Morris James , Xu K. Tom
Published: August 2023

Background

Racial inequities exist in treatment and outcomes in patients with acute stroke.

Objectives

Our objective was to determine if racial inequities exist in the time-lapse between patient presentation and provider assessment in patients with stroke-like symptoms in Emergency Departments (ED) across the U.S.

Methods

This study is a retrospective, observational study of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) 2014–2018. We identified visits with stroke-like symptoms and stratified the proportion of door-to-provider (DTP) times by racial groups. We used broad and narrow definitions of stroke-like symptoms. We performed bivariate and multivariate analyses using race and clinical and demographic characteristics as covariates.

Results

Between 2014–2018, there were an average of 138.58 million annual ED visits. Of the total ED visits, 0.36% to 7.39% of the ED visits presented with stroke-like symptoms, and the average DTP time ranged from 39 to 49 min. The proportion of the visits with a triage level of 1 (immediate) or 2 (emergent) ranged from 16.03% to 23.27% for stroke-like symptoms. We did not find statistically significant racial inequities in DTP or ED triage level. We found significantly longer DTP times in non-Hispanic blacks (15.88 min, 95% CI: 4.29–27.48) and Hispanics (by 14.77 min, 95% CI: 3.37–26.16) than non-Hispanic whites that presented with atypical stroke-like symptoms. We observed that non-Hispanic whites were significantly more diagnosed with a stroke/TIA than other racial minority groups (p = 0.045) for atypical stroke-like symptoms.

Conclusion

In our population-based analysis, we did not identify systemic racial inequities in the DTP times or ED triage level at ED triage for stroke-like symptoms.
The impact of COVID-19 epidemic on emergency department visits of older patients in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Hao-Ming , Chang Chih-Chen , Lin Pei-Ying , Lee Yi-Chen , Huang Hsien-Hao , Yen David Hung-Tsang
Published: August 2023

Background

The number of emergency department (ED) visits has significantly declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. In Taiwan, an aged society, it is unknown whether older adults are accessing emergency care during the COVID-19 epidemic. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the ED visits and triage, admission, and intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization of the geriatric population in a COVID-19-dedicated medical center throughout various periods of the epidemic.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of ED medical records from April 9 to August 31, 2021 were conducted, and demographic information was obtained from the hospital’s computer database. The period was divided into pre-, early-, peak-, late-, and post-epidemic stages. For statistical analysis, one-way analysis of variance followed by multiple comparison tests (Bonferroni correction) were used.

Results

A statistically significant decrease in the total number of patients attending the ED was noted during the peak-, late-, and post-epidemic stages. In the post-epidemic stage, the number of older patients visiting ED was nearly to that of the pre-epidemic stage, indicating that older adults tend to seek care at the ED earlier than the general population. Throughout the entire epidemic period, there was no statistically significant reduction in the number of the triage 1& 2 patients seeking medical attention at the emergency department. In the entire duration of the epidemic, there was no observed reduction in the admission of elderly patients to our hospital or ICU through the ED. However, a statistically significant decrease was observed in the admission of the general population during the peak epidemic stage.

Conclusions

During the peak of COVID-19 outbreak, the number of ED visits was significantly affected. However, it is noteworthy that as the epidemic was gradually controlled, the older patients resumed their ED visits earlier that the general population as indicated by the surge in their number. Additionally, in the patient group of triage 1& 2, which represents a true emergency, the number did not show a drastic change.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C viral co-infection and associated factors with HIV infection in children in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Miyanga Serge Ahuka , Shindano Tony Akilimali , Shindano Etienne Mwamba , Kyambikwa Célestin Bisangamo , Kabinda Jeff Maotela
Published: August 2023

Background

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2030 goal of eradicating Hepatitis B and C viruses must also include HIV co-infected children. However, data on the prevalence of this condition are lacking in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is considered as one of the countries with high-prevalence of these viruses. The need to assess the extent of this co-infection in the children of this country is therefore important in order to capitalize on efforts to improve prevention and management of both infections.

Methodology

This is a comparative cross-sectional study conducted from February 04, 2015 to September 03, 2019 at 14 General Reference Hospitals with a pediatric HIV management programme in South Kivu province. The study compared the frequency of hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) markers and factors associated with these two viruses in two equal groups: HIV-positive and HIV-negative children. The data were analyzed using the SPSS version 20.0 software and the significance level was set at p-value less than 0.05.

Results

The study involved a total of 594 children, 297 of whom were HIV-positive and 297 negative. HBsAg was found in 8.7% of HIV-positive patients and 0.7% for HCV antibodies. On the other hand, among the HIV-negative patients, the proportion of HBsAg was 0.7% but no cases with anti-HCV antibodies were detected. HIV status increases by 14 times the risk of co-occurring with HBV [OR 14.1 (95% CI: 3.33–60.2); p < 0.001] and this risk is not apparent for HCV (p = 0.297). Multivariate logistic regression showed that history of jaundice in the family (aOR:4.19;95% CI: 2.12–11.59), recent hospitalization (aOR:10.7;95% CI: 6.69–17.2), surgery (aOR: 3.24;95% CI: 1.18–8.92), piercing (aOR: 4.26;95% CI: 1.70–10.7) and transfusion in the last 6 months (aOR: 2.69;95% CI: 1.55–4.67) were significantly associated with higher risk of being HBV- HIV co-infected.

Conclusion

This study investigated the importance of hepatitis viral co-infections in HIV-positive children in South Kivu. Particular attention should be paid to prevention and early detection of these co-infections in this population.
The association between Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index and the risk of Invasive Candidiasis in critically ill older adults
Authors: Dong Yongqiang , Tao Heqing , Liu Ligang , Ni Ziyan , Yang Zhandong , Chen Kequan , He Shuying , Peng Liang , Chen Xueqing
Published: August 2023

Background

Invasive candidiasis is the most common hospital-acquired fungal infection in intensive care units (ICU). The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) score was developed to evaluate the nutritional status of elderly adults. We aimed to assess the association between the GNRI score and the risk of invasive candidiasis in elderly patients admitted to ICU.

Methods

Hospitalization information of elderly patients with invasive candidiasis was collected retrospectively from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC) IV and MIMIC-III Clinical Database CareVue subset from 2001 to 2019. The main outcome of this study was the diagnosis of invasive candidiasis in patients. We employed a multivariable Cox regression and propensity score matching to balance the influence of confounding factors on the outcome. Furthermore, we conducted sensitivity analyses by categorizing the GNRI into classes based on thresholds of 98, 92, and 81.

Results

A total of 6739 patients were included in the study, among whom 134 individuals (2%) were diagnosed with invasive candidiasis. The GNRI scores of patients with invasive candidiasis upon admission to the ICU were significantly lower, measuring 88.67 [79.26–98.27], compared to the control group with a score of 99.36 [87.98-110.45] (P < 0.001). The results of the multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated a strong association between higher GNRI scores and a decreased risk of invasive candidiasis infection (HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97–0.99, P = 0.002). Consistently, similar results were obtained when analyzing the propensity score-matched cohort (HR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98-1, P = 0.028). Sensitivity analyses further confirmed a significantly increased risk of invasive candidiasis infection with lower GNRI scores. Specifically, the following associations were observed: GNRI ≤ 98 (HR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.23–2.72, P = 0.003), GNRI ≤ 92 (HR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.17–2.4, P = 0.005), 82 ≤ GNRI ≤ 92 (HR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.01–2.64, P = 0.046), GNRI ≤ 81 (HR: 2.31, 95% CI: 1.44–3.69, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Lower GNRI score was significantly associated with an increased risk of invasive candidiasis in elderly patients in ICU. Further research is needed to validate whether improving nutrition can prevent invasive candidiasis.
Efficacy and safety of fluzoparib combined with anlotinib in extensive stage small cell lung cancer after first-line platinum-based chemotherapy: a multi-center, single-arm prospective phase II clinical study (STAMP study)
Authors: Li Deyu , Huang Zhangzhou , Zhong Jiangming , Lin Li , Zhang Guifeng , Zhuang Wu , Liu Zhenhua
Published: August 2023

Background

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly aggressive and lethal malignancy that accounts for 10–15% of lung cancers, and it is generally divided into limited and extensive stage. The standard of care for patients with newly diagnosed extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC) is still platinum-based chemotherapy and as maintenance therapy scheme. Although most parts of patients experience a significant tumor response to first-line therapy, the disease recurs invariably. Anlotinib hydrochloride, a novel oral multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has significant inhibitory activity against angiogenesis-related kinases, such as VEGFR, FGFR, PDGFR, and c-Kit kinase associated with tumor cell proliferation. Fluzoparib is a type of inhibitor of poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP, including PARPl, PARP2 and PARP3). Previous studies have shown that Fluzoparib has a strong inhibitory effect on PARP1 activity at the molecular and cellular levels.

Methods

This is a multi-center, prospective, single-arm phase II clinical study. A total of 50 ES-SCLC patients who experienced disease progression after first-line standard platinum-based chemotherapy with/without immune checkpoint inhibitors scheme, or within 6 months after the completion of treatment will be recruited. Those who had prior treatment with any PARP inhibitor or antiangiogenic agent includes anlotinib, bevacizumab, sorafenib, and thalidomide are excluded. Eligible patients will receive oral anlotinib 8 mg once daily and oral fluzoparib 150 mg twice daily until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR).

Discussion

The addition of fluzoparib to anlotinib is expected to increase the clinical benefit in ES-SCLC patients after platinum-based chemotherapy.

Trial registration

This study protocol was prospectively registered on June 17, 2021. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04933175.
Necroptosis-related LncRNAs in skin cutaneous melanoma: evaluating prognosis, predicting immunity, and guiding therapy
Authors: Liu Jianlan , Luo Binlin , Zhang Pengpeng , Jiang Keyu , Hou Zuoqiong , Cao Xiaojian , Tang Jian
Published: August 2023

Background

An increasing amount of research has speculated that necroptosis could be a therapeutic strategy for treating cancer. However, understanding the prognostic value of the necroptosis-related long non-coding RNAs (NRLs) in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM, hereafter referred to as melanoma) remains poor and needs to be developed. Our research aims to construct a model based on NRLs for the prognosis of patients with melanoma.

Methods

We obtained the RNA-seq and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and retrieved 86 necroptosis-related genes from the GeneCards database. The lncRNAs associated with necroptosis were identified via the Pearson correlation coefficient, and the prognostic model of melanoma was constructed using LASSO regression. Next, we employed multiple approaches to verify the accuracy of the model. Melanoma patients were categorized into two groups (high-risk and low-risk) according to the results of LASSO regression. The relationships between the risk score and survival status, clinicopathological correlation, functional enrichment, immune infiltration, somatic mutation, and drug sensitivity were further investigated. Finally, the functions of AL162457.2 on melanoma proliferation, invasion, and migration were validated by in vitro experiments.

Results

The prognostic model consists of seven NRLs (EBLN3P, AC093010.2, LINC01871, IRF2-DT, AL162457.2, AC242842.1, HLA-DQB1-AS1) and shows high diagnostic efficiency. Overall survival in the high-risk group was significantly lower than in the low-risk group, and risk scores could be used to predict melanoma survival outcomes independently. Significant differences were evident between risk groups regarding the expression of immune checkpoint genes, immune infiltration, immunotherapeutic response and drug sensitivity analysis. A series of functional cell assays indicated that silencing AL162457.2 significantly inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and migration in A375 cells.

Conclusion

Our prognostic model can independently predict the survival of melanoma patients while providing a basis for the subsequent investigation of necroptosis in melanoma and a new perspective on the clinical diagnosis and treatment of melanoma.
A serial mediation model of negative life events on school adjustment of left-behind adolescents in rural china: the central role of hope and gratitude
Authors: Zhang Lyuci , Roslan Samsilah , Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab , Liu Kexin , Tang Xing , Jiang Yuqin , Mohamad Zulkifli
Published: August 2023

Adjustment difficulties of school students are common and their school adjustment has gained wide concern in recent years. Negative life events (NLEs) hope, and gratitude have been associated with school adjustment. However, the potential effect of NLEs on hope and gratitude and whether hope and gratitude mediate the association between NLEs and school adjustment among high students have not been studied. Thus, this study aims to investigate the association between NLEs, hope and gratitude, and school adjustment in high school students in China. Additionally, the study aims to examine the mediating role of hope and gratitude in the association between NLEs and school adjustment. A total of 700 junior high school students in Guangxi Province (336 boys, 364 girls, M age = 15 years) completed the questionnaire. The results indicated significant mediating effects of hope and gratitude in the sequential positive association between NLEs and school adjustment. Furthermore, this study unraveled the complexity of the link between NLEs and school adjustment with the combination of hope and gratitude. The findings emphasized the importance of fostering hope and gratitude in left-behind adolescents to combat the negative consequences of NLEs. The study is also one of the first to investigate a serial mediation model to determine which NLEs influence Chinese left-behind adolescents’ school adjustment.
Application of preoperative 3D printing in the internal fixation of posterior rib fractures with embracing device: a cohort study
Authors: Zhou Xuetao , Zhang Dongsheng , Xie Zexin , Yang Yang , Feng Lei , Hou Chunjuan , Chen Menghui , Liang Zheng , Zhang Guoliang , Lu Huiqing
Published: August 2023

Background

To explore the impact of preoperative 3D printing on the fixation of posterior rib fractures utilizing a memory alloy embracing device of rib under thoracoscopy.

Methods

The enrolled patients were divided into the 3D printing (11 patients) and the non-3D printing (18 patients) groups, based on whether a 3D model of ribs was prepared prior to surgery. Analysis was conducted comparing the average fixation time per fracture, postoperative fixation loss, and poor reduction of fractured end between the two groups.

Results

The average fixation time of each fracture was 27.2 ± 7.7 min in the 3D printing group and 29.3 ± 8.2 min in the non-3D printing group, with no statistically significant difference observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). The incidence of poor fracture fixation in the 3D printing group was statistically lower than that in the non-3D printing group (12.9% vs. 44.7%, P < 0.05). Further stratified analysis revealed that the off-plate rate in the 3D printing group and the non-3D group was (3.2% vs. 12.8%, P > 0.05), and the dislocation rate of the fractured end was (9.7% vs. 31.9%, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The application of 3D printing technology to prepare the rib model before surgery is proves beneficial in reducing the occurrence of poor fixation of fractures and achieving precise and individualized treatment.
Prevalence and factors associated with early childbearing in sub-saharan Africa: evidence from demographic and health surveys of 31 countries
Authors: Shasha Liness , Phiri Million , Namayawa Sibongile , Sikaluzwe Milika , Nakazwe Chola , Lemba Musonda , Muhanga Mikidadi
Published: August 2023

Background

Early childbearing remains a public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) because it has substantial implications for women’s and children’s health and population control. However, little is known about recent changes in early childbearing in the region following the implementation of the Family Planning 2020 initiative (FP2020) national-level interventions. Thus, this study examined factors associated with early childbearing among women in SSA.

Methods

The study used data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 31 countries in sub-Saharan Africa between 2010 and 2021. The analysis included a pooled sample of 54,671 parous young women aged 20–24 years. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was used to examine the association between early childbearing and individual and household-level factors. All analyses were weighted to account for complex survey design.

Results

The study shows that the mean prevalence of early childbearing was high in SSA at 39% (95% CI: 35, 43). Chad had the highest prevalence of early childbearing, 62% (95% CI: 60, 64) while Rwanda had the lowest prevalence of 13% (95% CI: 11, 15). Completing secondary school (aOR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.62) or attaining tertiary level education (aOR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.45), first sexual debut in the age range 15–24 years (aOR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.14, 0.16) and desire for a small family size (aOR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.58, 0.69) were associated with reduced odds of early childbearing among young women in SSA.

Conclusion

The study has established that the prevalence of early childbearing is high in SSA. Level of education, age at first sexual debut, household size, and desired family size are associated with early childbearing in SSA. Governments of SSA countries should enhance sexual and reproductive health interventions to change reproductive behaviour, particularly in adolescents and young women.
An integrative review of research evaluating organisational culture in residential aged care facilities
Authors: Churruca Kate , Falkland Emma , Saba Maree , Ellis Louise A , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: August 2023

Background

Evidence suggests that the culture of healthcare organisations, including residential aged care facilities (RACFs), is linked to the quality of care offered. The number of people living in RACFs has increased globally, and in turn, attention has been placed on care quality. This review aimed to identify how organisational culture is studied, sought to elucidate the results of previous studies, and aimed to establish what interventions are being used to improve organisational culture in RACFs.

Methods

We employed an integrative review design to provide a comprehensive understanding of organisational culture. Five academic data bases were searched (Ovid Medline, Scopus, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase). Articles were included if they were empirical studies, published in peer reviewed journals in English, conducted in a RACF setting, and were focused on organisational culture/climate.

Results

Ninety-two articles were included. Fifty-nine studies (64.1%) utilised a quantitative approach, while 24 (26.0%) were qualitative, and nine used mixed methods (9.8%). Twenty-two (23.9%) aimed to describe the culture within RACFs, while 65 (70.7%) attempted to understand the relationship between culture and other variables, demonstrating mixed and indeterminate associations. Only five (5.4%) evaluated an intervention.

Conclusions

This review highlights the heterogenous nature of this research area, whereby differences in how culture is demarcated, conceptualised, and operationalised, has likely contributed to mixed findings. Future research which is underpinned by a sound theoretical basis is needed to increase the availability of empirical evidence on which culture change interventions can be based.
Causal effects between atrial fibrillation and heart failure: evidence from a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Zhuxin , Li Le , Hu Zhao , Zhou Likun , Zhang Zhenhao , Xiong Yulong , Yao Yan
Published: August 2023

Background

Observational studies have suggested a close association between atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF), yet the causal effect remains uncertain. In this study, we employed a bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis to investigate the causal effect of one disease on the other.

Methods

Genetic instrumental variables were obtained from large-scale summary-level genome-wide association studies of AF (n = 1,030,836) and HF(n = 1,665,481), respectively. Two-sample Mendelian randomization was conducted to establish causal inferences. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW) was the primary estimate, while additional analyses including MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), MR-Egger, and Weighted median were performed to validate robustness and identify pleiotropy.

Results

After accounting for confounding variables, MR analysis suggested a potential causal relationship between AF and HF. An augmented genetic predisposition to atrial fibrillation was associated with an elevated risk of heart failure (odds ratio (OR) = 1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.14–1.22). Likewise, genetically determined heart failure also increased the risk of heart failure (OR = 1.44, 95%CI:1.23–1.68). The robustness of the findings was corroborated through MR sensitivity analyses, and the causal estimates remained consistent when the instrument P-value threshold was tightened.

Conclusions

Our bidirectional Mendelian randomization study supports a reciprocal causal relationship between AF and HF. The shared genetic profile of these conditions may provide crucial insights into potential therapeutic targets for the prevention and progression of both disorders. These findings underscore the necessity for further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanisms linking AF and HF, as well as the potential for personalized treatment strategies grounded in genetic profiling.