bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosing B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2 pediatric patients with recent SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Mitra Anupam , Ladenheim Alexander , Datta-Mitra Ananya , Honeychurch Kaitlyn Lauren , Dwyre Denis M , Graff John Paul
Published: September 2024

COVID-19 infection is still a mystery in terms of its long-term effect on health and its consequences on hematological disorders. Prior studies including ours have shown the abnormal changes in hematopoietic cells in COVID-19 patients. In this article, we are presenting 2 cases of pediatric B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) with a previous history of COVID-19 infection. The first case describes a 22-month-old boy presenting with lymphadenopathy, neutropenia, and anemia with concurrent COVID-19 infection without any evidence of a hematolymphoid neoplasm as per bone marrow and lymph node biopsy. However, he presented after 2 months with bone marrow biopsy confirming B-ALL. The second case is that of a 4-year-old girl presenting with B-ALL who has had asymptomatic COVID-19 infection 5 months before this current presentation. Both the cases had complete resolution of COVID-19 infection during the time of presentation with acute leukemia. There were notably 2 rare findings along the course of the patients’ illnesses. First, the unusual plasmacytosis in the marrow during active COVID-19 infection in the first patient and the second, is predilection of development of B-ALL following COVID-19. In both the cases the fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies showed pathologic alteration of the RUNX1 gene. Overall, there are no literature to support a causal association between acute B-ALL and COVID-19. The diagnosis of B-ALL in these patients after COVID-19 infection may be totally unrelated. However, if we consider Greaves proposed 2-hit model for childhood acute leukemia, that an infectious agent can precipitate development of B-ALL in a genetically susceptible individual. Alteration of the RUNX1 gene in both the patients, opens a door for further exploration of the “second-hit” hypothesis regarding an infectious agent precipitating development of B-ALL in a genetically susceptible individual.
Primed and ready: nanopore metabarcoding can now recover highly accurate consensus barcodes that are generally indel-free
Authors: Chang Jia Jin Marc , Ip Yin Cheong Aden , Neo Wan Lin , Mowe Maxine A. D. , Jaafar Zeehan , Huang Danwei
Published: September 2024

Background

DNA metabarcoding applies high-throughput sequencing approaches to generate numerous DNA barcodes from mixed sample pools for mass species identification and community characterisation. To date, however, most metabarcoding studies employ second-generation sequencing platforms like Illumina, which are limited by short read lengths and longer turnaround times. While third-generation platforms such as the MinION (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) can sequence longer reads and even in real-time, application of these platforms for metabarcoding has remained limited possibly due to the relatively high read error rates as well as the paucity of specialised software for processing such reads.

Results

We show that this is no longer the case by performing nanopore-based, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) metabarcoding on 34 zooplankton bulk samples, and benchmarking the results against conventional Illumina MiSeq sequencing. Nanopore R10.3 sequencing chemistry and super accurate (SUP) basecalling model reduced raw read error rates to ~ 4%, and consensus calling with amplicon_sorter (without further error correction) generated metabarcodes that were ≤ 1% erroneous. Although Illumina recovered a higher number of molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) than nanopore sequencing (589 vs. 471), we found no significant differences in the zooplankton communities inferred between the sequencing platforms. Importantly, 406 of 444 (91.4%) shared MOTUs between Illumina and nanopore were also found to be free of indel errors, and 85% of the zooplankton richness could be recovered after just 12–15 h of sequencing.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that nanopore sequencing can generate metabarcodes with Illumina-like accuracy, and we are the first study to show that nanopore metabarcodes are almost always indel-free. We also show that nanopore metabarcoding is viable for characterising species-rich communities rapidly, and that the same ecological conclusions can be obtained regardless of the sequencing platform used. Collectively, our study inspires confidence in nanopore sequencing and paves the way for greater utilisation of nanopore technology in various metabarcoding applications.
The association between HIV-1 Tat and Vif amino acid sequence variation, inflammation and Trp-Kyn metabolism: an exploratory investigation
Authors: Williams Monray E. , Asia Levanco K. , Lindeque Zander , Jansen van Vuren Esmé
Published: September 2024

Background

HIV-1 has well-established mechanisms to disrupt essential pathways in people with HIV, such as inflammation and metabolism. Moreover, diversity of the amino acid sequences in fundamental HIV-1 proteins including Tat and Vif, have been linked to dysregulating these pathways, and subsequently influencing clinical outcomes in people with HIV. However, the relationship between Tat and Vif amino acid sequence variation and specific immune markers and metabolites of the tryptophan-kynurenine (Trp-Kyn) pathway remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between Tat/Vif amino acid sequence diversity and Trp-Kyn metabolites (quinolinic acid (QUIN), Trp, kynurenic acid (KA), Kyn and Trp/Kyn ratio), as well as specific immune markers (sCD163, suPAR, IL-6, NGAL and hsCRP) in n = 67 South African cART-naïve people with HIV.

Methods

Sanger sequencing was used to determine blood-derived Tat/Vif amino acid sequence diversity. To measure Trp-Kyn metabolites, a LC–MS/MS metabolomics platform was employed using a targeted approach. To measure immune markers, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and the Particle-enhanced turbidimetric assay was used.

Results

After adjusting for covariates, sCD163 (p = 0.042) and KA (p = 0.031) were higher in participants with Tat signatures N24 and R57, respectively, and amino acid variation at position 24 (adj R2 = 0.048, β = -0.416, p = 0.042) and 57 (adj R2 = 0.166, β = 0.535, p = 0.031) of Tat were associated with sCD163 and KA, respectively.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings suggest that amino acid variation in Tat may have an influence on underlying pathogenic HIV-1 mechanisms and therefore, this line of work merits further investigation.
Perceptions of HIV self-testing promotion in black barbershop businesses: implications for equitable engagement of black-owned small businesses for public health programs
Authors: Conserve Donaldson F. , Mathews Allison , Janson Samuel , Nwaozuru Ucheoma , Jennings Mayo-Wilson Larissa , Ritchwood Tiarney D. , Ahonkhai Aima A. , Diallo Hassim , Korede Tayo , Dieng Arona , Randolph Angela F. , Team BRIDGE Research
Published: September 2024

Background

HIV self-testing (HIVST) offers an innovative and promising approach to increasing HIV testing among Black men in the United States, a population disproportionately affected by HIV. However, engaging Black men in traditional HIV prevention programs has been challenging due to stigma, medical mistrust, and limited access to preventive health services. This formative qualitative study aimed to explore the potential of utilizing barbershops as an example of a nontraditional healthcare venue to promote and distribute HIVST.

Methods

Four virtual focus group discussions (FGDs) consisting of 19 participants in North Carolina were conducted with Black men, including barbershop business owners, barbers, and their customers, to assess perceptions of HIVST and the acceptability of partnering with barbershop businesses to promote HIVST. FGDs were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a deductive coding approach to thematic analysis.

Results

Participants reported that the trusting relationship between barbers and their customers, which may not exist between Black men and health care providers, is a facilitator of collaborating with barbershop businesses to reach Black men for HIVST distribution. Participants recommended providing education for barbers on the use of HIVST, as well as how to inform self-testers about linkage to care following HIVST to build the credibility of the barbers in delivering the intervention. Participants also raised the issue of the cost of HIVST to barbershop customers as a potential barrier to implementation, as well as the possibility that the implementation of such interventions could be seen as out of place in a barbershop business venue. Participants also expressed a strong belief that compensation to barbershops and their employees should accompany any intervention.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that barbershop business venues may provide an appropriate venue for HIVST promotion and distribution, though factors like cost, training, and incentivization of implementers are necessary to consider in implementation planning. Furthermore, partnerships between public health actors and the business community must be built on equitable engagement to ensure the long-term viability of these critical initiatives.
The association between dietary antioxidant quality score and intensity and frequency of migraine headaches among women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hajishizari Sara , Mirzababaei Atieh , Abaj Faezeh , Bahrampour Niki , Moradi Sajjad , C.T. Clark Cain , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: September 2024

Background

Migraine is an episodic disorder and a frequent form of headache. An impaired balance between free radical production and an impaired antioxidant defense system leading to oxidative damage may play a major role in migraine etiology. We sought to investigate whether dietary antioxidant quality score (DAQS) is associated with migraine intensity and frequency among women suffering from migraine.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 265 women. The data related to anthropometric measures and dietary intake were collected. DAQS score was calculated based on FFQ (food frequency questionnaire) vs. the reference daily intake (RDI) quantity. To measure migraine intensity, the migraine disability assessment questionnaire (MIDAS) and visual analog scale (VAS) were used. The frequency of headaches was defined as the days the participants had headaches in the last month and a 30-day headache diary was used.

Results

The results of the study demonstrated that VAS, MIDAS, and frequency of headaches were reduced significantly from the low DAQS (poor quality of antioxidants) to high DAQS (high quality of antioxidants) after adjusting covariates. Also, multinomial regression showed there was an inverse association between higher DAQS and the frequency of headaches. In the adjusted model, subjects with the higher DAQS were 69% less likely to have moderate migraine disability, compared with those with the lower DAQS. Linear regression showed, there was an inverse association between vitamin C intake and the grades of pain severity.َAlso in a crude model, a negative association was found between vitamin E and the frequency of headaches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Participants with higher DAQS had lower migraine intensity and headache frequency. In addition, the consumption of vitamin C may potentially associate with decreasing the severity of headaches. Dietary antioxidants should be monitored closely in individuals suffering from migraine.
Combined effects of landscape fragmentation and sampling frequency of movement data on the assessment of landscape connectivity
Authors: Prima Marie-Caroline , Garel Mathieu , Marchand Pascal , Redcliffe James , Börger Luca , Barnier Florian
Published: September 2024

Background

Network theory is largely applied in real-world systems to assess landscape connectivity using empirical or theoretical networks. Empirical networks are usually built from discontinuous individual movement trajectories without knowing the effect of relocation frequency on the assessment of landscape connectivity while theoretical networks generally rely on simple movement rules. We investigated the combined effects of relocation sampling frequency and landscape fragmentation on the assessment of landscape connectivity using simulated trajectories and empirical high-resolution (1 Hz) trajectories of Alpine ibex (Capra ibex). We also quantified the capacity of commonly used theoretical networks to accurately predict landscape connectivity from multiple movement processes.

Methods

We simulated forager trajectories from continuous correlated biased random walks in simulated landscapes with three levels of landscape fragmentation. High-resolution ibex trajectories were reconstructed using GPS-enabled multi-sensor biologging data and the dead-reckoning technique. For both simulated and empirical trajectories, we generated spatial networks from regularly resampled trajectories and assessed changes in their topology and information loss depending on the resampling frequency and landscape fragmentation. We finally built commonly used theoretical networks in the same landscapes and compared their predictions to actual connectivity.

Results

We demonstrated that an accurate assessment of landscape connectivity can be severely hampered (e.g., up to 66% of undetected visited patches and 29% of spurious links) when the relocation frequency is too coarse compared to the temporal dynamics of animal movement. However, the level of landscape fragmentation and underlying movement processes can both mitigate the effect of relocation sampling frequency. We also showed that network topologies emerging from different movement behaviours and a wide range of landscape fragmentation were complex, and that commonly used theoretical networks accurately predicted only 30–50% of landscape connectivity in such environments.

Conclusions

Very high-resolution trajectories were generally necessary to accurately identify complex network topologies and avoid the generation of spurious information on landscape connectivity. New technologies providing such high-resolution datasets over long periods should thus grow in the movement ecology sphere. In addition, commonly used theoretical models should be applied with caution to the study of landscape connectivity in real-world systems as they did not perform well as predictive tools.
A convenient archaeological ruins identification method through elevation information extraction from CORONA stereo pairs
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Wang Ningyuan , He Jie , Zhang Tao , Zhang Xin , Luo Hongpeng
Published: September 2024

Three-dimensional (3-D) stereo images can be generated via computer-based image processing of CORONA stereo pairs. To a certain extent, important terrain and surface feature data extracted from these stereo images can improve the survey of archaeological sites and the identification and mapping of major landscapes. In this study, we focused on the identification of the archaeological ruins of Liangzhu City. An optical stereo model (red/blue stereo image) of the Liangzhu site was created through computer-based mosaicking and processing of CORONA remote-sensing stereo pairs taken in the 1960s and 1970s. By importing the optical stereo model into mobile phones, tablet computers, and other mobile devices, the research team undertook real-time locating of ruins via human observation, on-site investigation, and image overlay during a field survey and identified several Liangzhu-period dams, some of which have been confirmed via archaeological field investigations. The research team later applied the same method to the identification of tombs at the site of the mausoleums of the six emperors of the Southern Song dynasty. The results further prove that this method is feasible and reliable and can be widely promoted and used for the identification of archaeological ruins.
Mixture of biochar as a green additive in cement-based materials for carbon dioxide sequestration
Authors: Kushwah Sini , Singh Shweta , Agarwal Rachit , Nighot Nikhil Sanjay , Kumar Rajesh , Athar Humaira , Naik B Srinivasarao
Published: September 2024

Cement production for concrete is one of the main reasons why the building industry contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions. This paper investigates an innovative approach to utilizing CO2 by incorporating mixed biochar in mortar. Various dosages (0%, 3%, 5%, and 10%) of mixed biochar were explored to assess their impact on the structural properties and environmental sustainability. In this study, mixed biochar was prepared using the pyrolysis method, in which biomasses (rice husk and sawdust) were heated in the absence of oxygen for 2 h in a muffle furnace at the heating rate of 10 ℃/min to 550 ℃ with a 2-h holding time. The replacement of biochar was done with cement in a mortar mixture for casting the cubes followed by putting them in the carbonation chamber for 28 days curing. After that, the cured samples were tested for mechanical strength, porosity, density, and water absorption. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that biochar supplementation promoted cement hydration products. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) analysis showed that several cement hydrates such as C-S–H, Ca(OH)2, and CaCO3 were formed with different doses of biochar and increased mechanical strength. Addition of 10 wt. % biochar increased the compressive strength of the composite by 24.2% than the control respectively, and successfully promoted the CO2 sequestration with 6% CO2 uptake after 28 days of accelerated CO2 curing. The present research has shown the benefits of optimally integrating mixed biochar with cement in the development of low-carbon, sustainable cementitious materials that have the potential to convert building materials like concrete in the future.
Made in NuYoRico
Authors: Negrón Marisol
Published: September 2024

In Made in NuYoRico, Marisol Negrón tells the cultural history of salsa, tracing the music’s Nuyorican meanings over a fifty-year period that begins with the establishment of Fania Records in 1964 and how it capitalized on salsa’s Nuyorican imaginary to cultivate a global audience. Drawing on interviews with fans, legendary musicians, and music industry figures as well as analyses of songs, albums, films, and archival documents, Negrón shows how Nuyorican cultural and social histories became embedded in and impacted salsa music's flows during its foundational period in the mid-1960s and its boom in the 1970s. Salsa’s Nuyorican aesthetics challenged mainstream notions of Americanness and Puerto Ricanness and produced an alternative public sphere through which New York’s poor and working-class Puerto Ricans could contest racialization and colonial power. By outlining salsa’s complicated musical, cultural, commercial, racial, gendered, legal, and political entanglements, Negrón demonstrates its centrality to Nuyorican identity and subjectivity.
Neuroma-to-Nerve Ratio: Does Size Matter?
Authors: Weigel Daniel T. , Raasveld Floris V. , Liu Wen-Chih , Mayrhofer-Schmid Maximilian , Hwang Charles D. , Tereshenko Vlad , Renthal William , Woolf Clifford J. , Valerio Ian L. , Eberlin Kyle R.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Anatomic features of neuromas have been explored in imaging studies. However, there has been limited research into these features using resected, ex vivo human neuroma specimens. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence that time may have on neuroma growth and size, and the clinical significance of these parameters.

METHODS:

Patients who underwent neuroma excision between 2022 through 2023 were prospectively included in this study. Neuroma specimens were obtained after operative resection. Standardized neuroma size measurements, expressed as a neuroma-to-nerve ratio (NNR), were conducted with ImageJ software. Pain data (numeric rating scale, 0-10) were prospectively recorded during preoperative evaluation, and patient factors were collected from chart reviews.

RESULTS:

Fifty terminal neuroma specimens from 31 patients were included, with 94.0% of the neuromas obtained from individuals with amputations. Most neuromas were excised from the lower extremities (n = 44, 88.0%). The neuromas had a median NNR of 2.45, and the median injury to neuroma excision interval was 6.3 years. Larger NNRs were associated with a longer injury to neuroma excision interval and with a smaller native nerve diameter. In addition, sensory nerves were associated with a larger NNR compared with mixed nerves. NNR was not associated with preoperative pain or with anatomical nerve distribution.

CONCLUSION:

This study suggests that neuromas seem to continue to grow over time and that smaller nerves may form relatively larger neuromas. In addition, sensory nerves develop relatively larger neuromas compared with mixed nerves. Neuroma size does not appear to correlate with pain severity. These findings may stimulate future research efforts and contribute to a better understanding of symptomatic neuroma development.
Quasi-steady aerodynamic theory under-predicts glide performance in flying snakes
Authors: Yeaton Isaac J. , Ross Shane D. , Socha John J.
Published: September 2024

Flying snakes (genus Chrysopelea) glide without the use of wings. Instead, they splay their ribs and undulate through the air. A snake's ability to glide depends on how well its morphing wing-body produces lift and drag forces. However, previous kinematics experiments under-resolved the body, making it impossible to estimate the aerodynamic load on the animal or to quantify the different wing configurations throughout the glide. Here, we present new kinematic analyses of a previous glide experiment, and use the results to test a theoretical model of flying snake aerodynamics using previously measured lift and drag coefficients to estimate the aerodynamic forces. This analysis is enabled by new measurements of the center of mass motion based on experimental data. We found that quasi-steady aerodynamic theory under-predicts lift by 35% and over-predicts drag by 40%. We also quantified the relative spacing of the body as the snake translates through the air. In steep glides, the body is generally not positioned to experience tandem effects from wake interaction during the glide. These results suggest that unsteady 3D effects, with appreciable force enhancement, are important for snake flight. Future work can use the kinematics data presented herein to form test conditions for physical modeling, as well as computational studies to understand unsteady fluid dynamics effects on snake flight.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Capodosal Gerardo , Holden Diane , Maloy Wyatt , Schroeder Jeremy D.
Published: September 2024

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a complex syndrome that manifests with symptoms based on the presumed injury or impairment of the neurovascular structures in the thoracic outlet space with its intricate anatomy and pathophysiology. The thoracic outlet is a specific anatomical region with three distinct anatomical spaces — interscalene triangle, the costoclavicular space, and the retro-pectoralis minor space. Thoracic outlet syndrome is classified into neurogenic, venous, and arterial thoracic outlet syndrome and often poses diagnostic challenge to implicate a specific condition or cause. Many cases of thoracic outlet syndrome can be effectively managed through conservative measures, but patients with refractory symptoms may warrant surgical intervention. Modalities such as intramuscular anesthetic and botulinum toxin injections hold promise as diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic procedures. Further research and collaboration are needed to develop algorithms for diagnosis and treatment of thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms. This review aims to explore our understanding of thoracic outlet syndrome, with a focus on current evidence and emerging trends.
Correlation between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein in diverse disease states in hospitalized patients
Authors: Arshad Ramsha Ghazal , Toori Kaleem Ullah
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study aims to find if any significant correlation exists between C-reactive protein and Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio as an indirect measure of inflammation.
Methods: We selected 983 patients with any inflammatory condition who presented to a tertiary care hospital and were admitted in medical wards or Intensive Care Units (ICUs) of KRL Hospital Islamabad from December 2021 to December 2022. The study was a cross sectional study and convenience sampling was done. The patients were categorized into five groups depending upon their pathophysiology. Kolmogorov Smirnov test was used to assess the normality of the data, and Spearman’s coefficient was used to calculate the correlation between NLR and CRP.
Results: A total of 983 patients were included. Mean CRP and NLR levels were 89.9±3.2 and 7.06±0.24, respectively. There was a significant positive correlation between CRP-NLR in the infectious, non-infectious non-inflammatory, and malignancy groups (0.420, 0.381, 0.642, p <0.01), and inflammatory group (0.322, p <0.05), and no correlation with chronic diseases.
Conclusion: A significant correlation was shown to exist between CRP and NLR in patients with malignancies, non-infective non-inflammatory, inflammatory, and infective conditions and can therefore be used interchangeably to detect the presence of inflammation. Further exploration of these associations may contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the intricate relationships between different markers of inflammation and response to treatment.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8933
How to cite this: Arshad RG, Toori KU. Correlation between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein in diverse disease states in hospitalized patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8933
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical efficacy and safety of targeted therapy, immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy for treating patients with advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Yang Dongyan , Gao Zhilong , Yang Xuezhu , Gao Liguo
Published: September 2024

Objective: Exploring the clinical efficacy and safety of targeted therapy, immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced gastric cancer.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical records of 134 patients with advanced gastric cancer who visited Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine from January 2019 to December 2022. According to therapeutic regimens, enrolled patients were divided into the control group and the study group. Patients in the control group received chemotherapy intervention, while those in the study group were provided with a combined intervention of apatinib, PD-1 inhibitor and chemotherapy. We analyze the tumor control effect and incidence of adverse reactions in two groups of patients.
Results: The disease control rate (DCR) of patients in the study group and the control group was 72.06% and 42.42%, with an overall response rate (ORR) of 8.82% and 4.55%, The differences are statistically significant(P<0.05). By the end of follow-up, the median progression-free survival (mPFS) and the median overall survival (mOS) of the control group patients were 3.0±0.266 and 5.0±0.224 months respectively; while the mPFS and mOS of the study group were 5.0±0.261 and 7.0±0.172 months respectively, the differences are statistically significant (P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The therapeutic regimen of apatinib, a PD-1 inhibitor combined with chemotherapy exhibits relatively high clinical efficacy and safety for the treatment of patients with advanced gastric cancer. It can be considered as an interventional option for this type of patient.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9049
How to cite this: Yang D, Gao Z, Yang X, Gao L. Clinical efficacy and safety of targeted therapy, immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy for treating patients with advanced gastric cancer. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9049
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of periodic nursing interventions on improving compliance behavior and health status in long-term Hemodialysis patients
Authors: Wang Yan , Sun Jiakang , Guo Fei , Wan Deheng
Published: September 2024

Objective: To investigate the effect of periodic nursing interventions on improving compliance behavior and health status in long-term hemodialysis patients.
Method: This was retrospective study. A total of 88 patients on long-term hemodialysis admitted to Qinhuangdao Haigang Hospital from January 2022 to April 2023 were randomly divided into the control group and the intervention group, who received routine hemodialysis nursing and periodic nursing interventions, respectively. Afterward, compliance behavior and health status were compared between the two groups, along with a comprehensive assessment of the health status using renal function indexes, complication rates, and anxiety and depression scores.
Result: Before nursing, no significant difference was observed in each index between the two groups (p> 0.05). After 16 months of nursing, the score of compliance behavior in the intervention group (88.68 ± 6.27) was significantly higher than that in the control group (70.91 ± 7.48) (p< 0.05), with the renal function indexes of BUN and SCr lower than those in the control group (p< 0.05). Meanwhile, the intervention group saw higher SAS and SDS scores than the control group (p< 0.05).
Conclusion: Periodic nursing interventions may effectively improve the compliance behavior and health status of patients, enhance the efficacy of hemodialysis treatment, and improve the quality of life of patients.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9076
How to cite this: Wang Y, Sun J, Guo F, Wan D. Effect of periodic nursing interventions on improving compliance behavior and health status in long-term Hemodialysis patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9076
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Influence of Kinesiophobia on muscle endurance in patients with chronic low back pain- A case-control study
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Ferreira Arthur de Sá , Nogueira Leandro Alberto Calazans , Arulsingh Watson , Patil Mr. Sharad
Published: September 2024

Background Patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) frequently present with kinesiophobia. Although kinesiophobia is found to affect outcomes such as affect pain and quality of life in patients with CLBP, it is unclear whether kinesiophobia is linked to reduction of muscle endurance in these patients. The primary aim of the study was to analyze the impact of kinesiophobia on lumbar extensor endurance in patients with CLBP and asymptomatic individuals. Methods This case-control study was proceeded with 200 patients with CLBP and 400 controls. Kinesiophobia, lumbar endurance and Pain intensity were assessed with Tampa Scale, Soren’s lumbar extensor test and visual analog scale respectively. Regression model was administered to explore the relationship between kinesiophobia and lumbar extensor endurance. Results Prevalence of kinesiophobia was found to be higher in patients with CLBP (30%) than in controls (11%) which is (6.49 ± 0.52, d= 1.07) more in CLBP than controls. Lumbar endurance was significantly lower in CLBP than controls (-20.5±6.84), further affected by the presence of kinesiophobia as lumbar endurance was negatively correlated (r = - 0.09) to Kinesiophobia. Moreover, VAS (r = 0.2) was positively correlated with kinesiophobia in patients with CLBP. Discussion and conclusion A high prevalence of kinesiophobia was reported by patients with CLBP. The presence of kinesiophobia exhibited strong linear relationship with lumbar endurance, and pain intensity among patients with CLBP. Hence management of CLBP should comprise of an assessment of kinesiophobia and appropriate treatment strategies to address it in preventing persistent CLBP. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05079893 Registered on 14/10/2021.
Determinants of nutrition knowledge among student migrants in West Midlands, United Kingdom
Authors: Olatunji Sarah , Asomuyide Olukemi , Omar Marafee , A.Falobi Ayodele , B. Falana Ayokunle , C. Ojo Constance , Collins Peter , Ahmed Yusuf A , O. Ojo Opeolu
Published: September 2024

Background Dietary habits play a significant role in health and well-being. Nutritional knowledge can influence dietary habits. This study investigated the level of nutrition knowledge and factors affecting nutrition knowledge among student migrants in the West Midlands of the United Kingdom. Method Data were collected from 372 participants using the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (GNKQ). The effects of gender, length of UK residency, program and level of study, marital status, and history of diet-related diseases on nutrition knowledge were assessed. Results The students generally demonstrated good nutrition knowledge. The overall mean score was 52.3 ± 2.4, and the median score was 54. Mean scores for dietary recommendations (11.9±0.4, 348 participants), food classification (21.3±1.0, 264 participants) and diet-related diseases/weight management (13.2±0.6, 324 participants) are indicative of good nutrition knowledge. Poor knowledge of food choices was observed (5.9±0.4, 156 participants). Females, postgraduates, and married students, as well as those with ≤3 years of UK residency, had higher mean scores compared to those in the opposite groups. BMI and a history of diet-related diseases did not significantly affect nutritional knowledge. Conclusion Gender, level and type of study, marital status, and length of stay in the UK were predictors of good nutrition knowledge. Interventions to improve the knowledge of food choices among student migrants are needed.
Maturity assessment of grid-scale flexibility and energy storage services towards a decarbonized Europe
Authors: Munuera-Mínguez Pablo , Rocca Roberto , Malamaki Kyriaki Nefeli , Zafeiropulou Magdalini , Apostolidou Nena , Martínez-López Diego
Published: September 2024

Background The study evaluates the maturity of grid-scale flexibility services, essential for Europe's transition to a decarbonized economy. Conducted under the Horizon-Europe SINNOGENES project, it focuses on energy storage technologies, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder perspectives. Methods The methodology comprises three phases. First, significant grid-scale energy storage and flexibility technologies, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems, were reviewed. Second, the regulatory framework for flexibility services at the EU transmission systems level was assessed, analyzing key EU directives and national regulations from Spain, Portugal, Germany, Cyprus, and Switzerland. Third, stakeholder perspectives were gathered through a survey of forty-four stakeholders in the European energy sector and bilateral interviews with companies and organizations in the energy sector. Results Technological advancements in grid-scale flexibility services have been identified, along with persistent regulatory challenges. The survey and interviews revealed a varied perception among stakeholders regarding the maturity and implementation of these services. A high demand for flexibility was noted, with 77% of stakeholders expressing a need for or active use of flexibility services. Electrochemical energy storage and demand response were highlighted as the most relevant technologies. However, high implementation costs, perceived insufficient benefits, and regulatory uncertainties were major barriers to widespread adoption. Conclusions The study concludes that despite notable technological progress and some regulatory advancements, several barriers still impede the full maturity and integration of grid-scale flexibility services in Europe. Addressing these regulatory and market challenges is crucial for achieving a fully functional and integrated flexibility service framework across the European grid. Harmonized regulations, financial incentives, and clear long-term pricing signals are essential to support the market.
Primary and secondary dysmenorrhea: symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment – review
Authors: Krzemińska Paulina , Kołodziej Joanna , Biniewicz Arkadiusz
Published: September 2024

Dysmenorrhea, or painful uterine contractions during menstruation in women, is a common condition. It may affect up to 90% of patients in a doctor's office. Depending on the severity of symptoms, it may cause discomfort or prevent normal functioning in everyday life. Some women do not realize that this is not a normal symptom during menstruation. Unfortunately, lack of exercise, smoking, or drinking alcohol only increases the symptoms. A medical history and physical examination of the patient are important steps in finding the cause. Primary dysmenorrhea is primarily associated with the pathogenesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which generate inflammation and pain. However, it has nothing to do with pelvic pathology. It usually first appears in young women during puberty, up to 24 months after their first period. If the history and physical examination are not clear about the primary cause of pain, a secondary cause should be considered. For this purpose, a transvaginal ultrasound examination should be performed. The most common secondary pathology is endometriosis. In the treatment of primary and secondary diseases, physical exercises and warm compresses are beneficial, which women are often unaware of. First-line pharmacological treatment may include NSAIDs or combined oral estrogen-progestogen hormonal therapy. The purpose of this review is to provide knowledge about the symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of dysmenorrhea.
Alcohol abuse among adolescents and suicide risk - is there a correlation?
Authors: Szopińska Kinga , Graca Magdalena , Korta Karolina , Szeliga Anna , Szostak Agata , Oluszczak Karolina , Dyląg Liliana , Śmigielska-Mikołajczyk Maria Janina , Wawszkowicz Konrad , Łowicka Weronika
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Adolescent alcohol abuse is a critical public health issue with far-reaching consequences for individual development and societal well-being. Adolescent alcohol consumption poses significant health risks, particularly due to its effects on brain development and its association with increased suicide risk.
Purpose of the work: This study aims to investigate the relationship between alcohol abuse and suicide risk in adolescents.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive analysis of research papers available on PubMed and Google Scholar was undertaken using the search terms including the following keywords: alcohol abuse/ alcohol abuse in adolescence/ alcohol consumption in adolescence/ alcohol abuse and suicide risk in adolescence/ suicide risk factors in adolescence/ suicidal tendencies among teenagers.
Conclusions:Adolescent alcohol abuse has profound implications for brain development and mental health, significantly increasing the risk of suicide. Effective public health strategies, including early intervention, education, and strong support systems, are essential to mitigate these risks and promote healthier environments for young individuals. Addressing the underlying causes of alcohol abuse and providing targeted support can reduce its long-term consequences and improve adolescent well-being.
The impact of Lyme disease on quality of life and multiorgan function, diagnosis, late stages of the disease and PTLDS
Authors: Dutka Martyna , Bernacki Radosław , Bernacki Piotr , Zardzewiały Witold , Skrzyńska Klaudia , Zaremskyi Oleksii , Fuszara Kamil , Mordasiewicz Dominika , Mendyk Krzysztof
Published: September 2024

Introduction and purpose of the work:  
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the world. It is caused by bacteria of the Borrelia genus. It is transmitted by ticks of the Ixodes genus. The disease caused by these bacteria can affect many organs of the human body. Knowledge about diagnosis, form of the disease and treatment is necessary because this disease entity can often be encountered in clinical practice. The aim of the study is to present information on available diagnostic methods and to describe the organ form of the disease, distinguishing: articular form, cardiac form and neuroborreliosis, based on a review of the current literature.  
   
Review methods:  
The review is based on 20 articles obtained from PubMed databases, using the keywords: "Lyme joint disease", "neuroborrelia", "Lyme heart disease". Published between 2000 and 2023.  
   
Brief description of the state of knowledge:  
Lyme disease most often causes symptoms affecting the skin, musculoskeletal system, heart muscle, and nervous system. The diagnosis of the disease is based on the clinical symptoms presented by the patient. The key symptom of the disease is the presence of erythema migrans (EM). The articular form of Lyme disease is characterized by an ongoing inflammatory process located within the joint. It is located within large ponds. The most common cardiac form of the disease is self-limiting cardiac inflammation caused by Lyme disease. However, in the course of neuroborreliosis, meningitis is observed. Treatment is based on antibiotic therapy.  
   
Conclusions:  
Lyme disease is a life-threatening disease. It can cause non-specific symptoms, so it is important to diagnose it as early as possible and treat it to prevent progression.
La devastación de la Tierra y la inviolabilidad de la ley de lo posible según Heidegger.
Authors: Sologuren López Jaime
Published: September 2024

Se trata aquí de un peligro: la posibilidad de que el hombre convierta a la Tierra en inhabitable. Heidegger piensa que para la Tierra regiría una sencilla ley de lo posible que sería, en principio, inviolable, formando un círculo al que todas las especies vivientes están asignadas y respetan, a excepción del hombre, que ha podido salir de ese círculo y convertir lo posible en imposible, lo cual llevaría, por medio de la ciencia y la técnica moderna y, en especial, por la acción de un sistema económico, el capitalismo, a la devastación de la Tierra
Partycypacja wyborcza w kontekście współczesnych wyzwań społeczeństwa obywatelskiego – uwagi teoretyczne
Authors: Kiwior-Filo Małgorzata , Solarz Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

The subject of this study is an attempt to elucidate the essence of citizen participation in shaping socio- political life, understood as a readiness to act for the community and representing a type of collective activity with self-organizational characteristics. A fundamental element of the functioning of modern democracies is not only activity but also civic awareness. This encapsulates the essence of civil society, whose republican and liberal traditions, present in the realm of political thought, have been revisited to demonstrate the contemporary face of participatory democracy, especially in the context of current conditions and challenges. Active participation should be anchored in political culture and based on social capital and trust. Citizen participation, trust, social capital, and civil society are critical elements of an efficiently functioning democratic state, operating under the rule of law at both local and global levels.
A Study of Influencing Factors on the Emotional-Behavioral Problem of Middle School Students In a City
Authors: Lee Chung Sook , Kim Su Jin , Choi Bong Sil , Kweon Young Ran
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was to investigate the influencing factors on emotional-behavioral problem of middle school students in a city. Methods: The subjects for this study were 447 students in middle school in Gwangju. The data was collected during the period from March to April, 2004 by use of questionnaires. The instruments used were K-YSR, Stress, Self-esteem and School Life Attitude measurement. The data was analyzed by frequency, mean score, pearson's correlation and stepwise multiple regression analysis using SPSS 12.0 program. Results: Mean score of emotional-behavioral problem was 62.6, stress score 45.4, self-esteem score 20.6, and school life attitude score 163.5. Emotional-behavioral problem showed a significant positive correlation with stress(r=.494), and negative correlation with self-esteem(r=-.445) and school life attitude(r=-.326). In addition, variables that predicted emotional -behavioral problem were lower self-esteem, economic factor, school factor & peer factor of stress, isolation in peer relation of school life attitude(40.8%). Conclusion: It should be developed school mental health program to intervene predictors to early prevent emotional-behavioral problem of middle school students in school system.
A Preliminary Study for the Development of an Instrument to Measure Hope in People with Schizophrenia
Authors: Choe Kwi Soon , Kim Hee Jung , Noh Choon Hee
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument to measure hope in people with schizophrenia.Methods: The preliminary instrument to measure hope in people with schizophrenia is a 40 item, three-point Likert scale. The instrument was tested with a convenience sample of 149 participants with schizophrenia. Construct validity was supported through the factor analysis. Results: Four factors were identified through factorial analysis:Factor 1. the essential meaning of hope, factor 2. what is hope for, factor 3. support systems for hope, and factor 4. spiritual dimension of hope. These four factors accounted for 51.9% of the total variance in the measure.Cronbach alpha was 0.97. Conclusion: The instrument to measure hope of people with schizophrenia will become a useful tool in the assessment of clients' hope state and in the evaluation of the effectiveness of hope-enhancing strategies.
Analysis of Kfuffsisig Inteweotion Studies on Major Korean Nursing Journals
Authors: Lee Mihyoung , Chung Myungsill , Lim Ji Young , Lee Sujin
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study was conducted to analyze 572 nursing intervention studies among a total of 2824 studies published in major Korean nursing journals between the years 2000 to 2006. Methods: Five hundred seventy-two studies were categorized as nursing intervention studies by the Nursing Intervention Classification (NIC) for intervention and Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) for dependent variables. Results: 1) The average ratio of intervention research studies for all major journals is 20.3% 2) Interventions on physical comfort promotion, patient education, behavior therapy, coping assistance, activity and exercise management, psychological comfort promotion, and childbearing care conducted by class level of NIC were 134(23.4%), 74(12.9%), 63(11%), 50(8.7%) 38(6.6%), (6.6%), 31(5.4%), and over 5%, respectively. 3) Outcomes of psychosocial well-being, health and life quality, symptom status, health belief, psychosocial adaptation, health behavior, therapeutic response, and health knowledge measured by class of NOC among 1419 dependent variables 239(16.84%), 196(13.81%), 124(8.74%), 119(8.39%), (5.92%), 82(5.78%), 81(5.71%), and 61(4.30%), respectively. Conclusion: This study offers on intervention studies of major nursing journals in Korea.