bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hygienic vulvo-vaginal habits, contraceptive use, and bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Reyes Garcia Luis Jesus
Published: March 2024

Dear Editor:
Bacterial vaginosis is a common health problem leading to millions of worldwide medical consultations yearly (Morales, 2015). It is characterized by the presence of abundant and malodorous vaginal discharge and in some cases, is accompanied by itching, dysuria, and dyspareunia (Hakakha et al., 2002). This condition is associated with an imbalance in the vaginal bacterial flora (reduction in Lactobacilli and predominance of Gardnerella vaginalis and other anaerobic bacteria). One concerning aspect of this condition is that approximately 75% of the patients who undergo gynecological consultations present some alterations in their vaginal flora, and between 10% and 31% of such patients are diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis (Gonzalez et al., 2006; Abreu et al., 2023). In healthy women, vaginal fluid has a pH of 4.5 (Spiegel et al, 1980) and is mainly composed of lactic acid in addition to volatile aliphatic acids (acetic, propanoic, methylpropanoic, butanoic, methyl butanoic, and methylpentanoic acids), which vary in percentages throughout the menstrual cycle (Michael et al., 1974; Preti and Huggins, 1975). Acetic acid, along with lactic acid, is present in higher amounts. On the other hand, in women diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis, several amines produced by G. vaginalis are responsible for the foul odor associated with the problem have been identified. These amines include isobutylamine, 2-phenylethanamine, putrescine, cadaverine, and 4-(2-aminoethyl) phenol (Wolrath et al., 2001; Jokipii et al., 1986).
Incorporation of Drone Technology Into the Chain of Survival for OHCA: Estimation of Time Needed for Bystander Treatment of OHCA and CPR Performance
Authors: Starks Monique A. , Blewer Audrey L. , Chow Christine , Sharpe Edward , Van Vleet Lee , Arnold Evan , Buckland Daniel M. , Joiner Anjni , Simmons Denise , Green Cynthia L. , Mark Daniel B.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Drone-delivered automated external defibrillators (AEDs) hold promises in the treatment of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Our objective was to estimate the time needed to perform resuscitation with a drone-delivered AED and to measure cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality.

METHODS:

Mock out-of-hospital cardiac arrest simulations that included a 9-1-1 call, CPR, and drone-delivered AED were conducted. Each simulation was timed and video-recorded. CPR performance metrics were recorded by a Laerdal Resusci Anne Quality Feedback System. Multivariable regression modeling examined factors associated with time from 9-1-1 call to AED shock and CPR quality metrics (compression rate, depth, recoil, and chest compression fraction). Comparisons were made among those with recent CPR training (≤2 years) versus no recent (>2 years) or prior CPR training.

RESULTS:

We recruited 51 research participants between September 2019 and March 2020. The median age was 34 (Q1–Q3, 23–54) years, 56.9% were female, and 41.2% had recent CPR training. The median time from 9-1-1 call to initiation of CPR was 1:19 (Q1–Q3, 1:06–1:26) minutes. A median time of 1:59 (Q1–Q3, 01:50–02:20) minutes was needed to retrieve a drone-delivered AED and deliver a shock. The median CPR compression rate was 115 (Q1–Q3, 109–124) beats per minute, the correct compression depth percentage was 92% (Q1–Q3, 25–98), and the chest compression fraction was 46.7% (Q1–Q3, 39.9%–50.6%). Recent CPR training was not associated with CPR quality or time from 9-1-1 call to AED shock. Younger age (per 10-year increase; β, 9.97 [95% CI, 4.63–15.31] s;
P
<0.001) and prior experience with AED (β, −30.0 [95% CI, −50.1 to −10.0] s;
P
=0.004) were associated with more rapid time from 9-1-1 call to AED shock. Prior AED use (β, 6.71 [95% CI, 1.62–11.79];
P
=0.011) was associated with improved chest compression fraction percentage.

CONCLUSION:

Research participants were able to rapidly retrieve an AED from a drone while largely maintaining CPR quality according to American Heart Association guidelines. Chest compression fraction was lower than expected.
Association of Traditional and Nontraditional Risk Factors in the Development of Strokes Among Young Adults by Sex and Age Group: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Leppert Michelle H. , Poisson Sharon N. , Scarbro Sharon , Suresh Krithika , Lisabeth Lynda D. , Putaala Jukka , Schwamm Lee H. , Daugherty Stacie L. , Bradley Cathy J. , Burke James F. , Ho P. Michael
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Despite women having fewer traditional risk factors (eg, hypertension, diabetes), strokes are more common in women than men aged ≤45 years. This study examined the contributions of traditional and nontraditional risk factors (eg, migraine, thrombophilia) in the development of strokes among young adults.

METHODS:

This retrospective case-control study used Colorado’s All Payer Claims Database (2012–2019). We identified index stroke events in young adults (aged 18–55 years), matched 1:3 to stroke-free controls, by (1) sex, (2) age±2 years, (3) insurance type, and (4) prestroke period. All traditional and nontraditional risk factors were identified from enrollment until a stroke or proxy-stroke date (defined as the prestroke period). Conditional logistic regression models stratified by sex and age group first assessed the association of stroke with counts of risk factors by type and then computed their individual and aggregated population attributable risks.

RESULTS:

We included 2618 cases (52% women; 73.3% ischemic strokes) and 7827 controls. Each additional traditional and nontraditional risk factors were associated with an increased risk of stroke in all sex and age groups. In adults aged 18 to 34 years, more strokes were associated with nontraditional (population attributable risk: 31.4% men and 42.7% women) than traditional risk factors (25.3% men and 33.3% women). The contribution of nontraditional risk factors declined with age (19.4% men and 27.9% women aged 45–55 years). The contribution of traditional risk factors peaked among patients aged 35 to 44 years (32.8% men and 39.7% women). Hypertension was the most important traditional risk factor and increased in contribution with age (population attributable risk: 27.8% men and 26.7% women aged 45 to 55 years). Migraine was the most important nontraditional risk factor and decreased in contribution with age (population attributable risk: 20.1% men and 34.5% women aged 18–35 years).

CONCLUSIONS:

Nontraditional risk factors were as important as traditional risk factors in the development of strokes for both young men and women and have a stronger association with the development of strokes in adults younger than 35 years of age.
Repeated Measurement of the Novel Atrial Biomarker BMP10 (Bone Morphogenetic Protein 10) Refines Risk Stratification in Anticoagulated Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: Insights From the ARISTOTLE Trial
Authors: Gkarmiris Konstantinos I. , Lindbäck Johan , Alexander John H. , Granger Christopher B. , Kastner Peter , Lopes Renato D. , Ziegler André , Oldgren Jonas , Siegbahn Agneta , Wallentin Lars , Hijazi Ziad
Published: March 2024

Background

BMP10 (bone morphogenic protein 10) has emerged as a novel biomarker associated with the risk of ischemic stroke and other outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The study aimed to determine if repeated BMP10 measurements improve prognostication of cardiovascular events in patients with AF.

Methods and Results

BMP10 was measured using a prototype Elecsys immunoassay in plasma samples collected at randomization and after 2 months in patients with AF randomized to apixaban or warfarin in the ARISTOTLE (Apixaban for Reduction in Stroke and Other Thromboembolic Events in Atrial Fibrillation) trial (n=2878). Adjusted Cox‐regression models were used to evaluate the association between 2‐month BMP10 levels and outcomes. BMP10 levels increased by 7.8% (
P
<0.001) over 2 months. The baseline variables most strongly associated with BMP10 levels at 2 months were baseline BMP10 levels, body mass index, sex, age, creatinine, diabetes, warfarin treatment, and AF‐rhythm. During median 1.8 years follow‐up, 34 ischemic strokes/systemic embolism, 155 deaths, and 99 heart failure hospitalizations occurred. Comparing the third with the first sample quartile, higher BMP10 levels at 2 months were associated with higher risk of ischemic stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.33 [95% CI, 0.67–2.63],
P
=0.037), heart failure (HR, 1.91 [95% CI, 1.17–3.12],
P
=0.012) and all‐cause death (HR, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.17–2.21],
P
<0.001). Adding BMP10 levels at 2 months on top of established risk factors and baseline BMP10 levels improved the C‐indices for ischemic stroke/systemic embolism (from 0.73 to 0.75), heart failure hospitalization (0.76–0.77), and all‐cause mortality (0.70–0.72), all
P
<0.05.

Conclusions

Elevated levels of BMP10 at 2 months strengthened the associations with the risk of ischemic stroke, hospitalization for heart failure, and all‐cause mortality. Repeated measurements of BMP10 may further refine risk stratification in patients with AF.
Drug Use Stigma and Reprisal: Barriers to Prison Needle Exchange in Canada
Authors: De Shalit Ann , van der Meulen Emily , Chu Sandra Ka Hon , Thomas Rhiannon
Published: March 2024

After years of advocacy by a range of civil society groups, supported by scholarly and empirical research, Canada's federal prison service implemented a needle exchange program at select carceral institutions in 2018. Since the program rollout, however, uptake has remained minimal. To understand why, we conducted the first independent and national study of the program, interviewing 30 people who were incarcerated at one of the prisons with a needle exchange. Our findings show that drug use stigma and anticipated or actual reprisal from correctional officers, particularly related to breaches of confidentiality for program participants, markedly impede access and utilization.
The Sociology of Contraband: Examining the Correlates of Illicit Drugs, Cellphones, and Weapons in U.S. Prisons
Authors: Peterson Bryce E. , Kim Ki Deuk , Shukla Rochisha
Published: March 2024

Contraband negatively affects the safety and security of correctional institutions. Extant research has relied on descriptive analyses or limited measures of contraband. Drawing upon established theories of institutional misbehavior—the deprivation model, importation model, and management perspective–the study examines facility-level and correctional population characteristic correlates of contraband in 301 prisons across six U.S. states. Findings confirm the relevance of individually examining risk factors by type of contraband, including drugs, cellphones, weapons, and total contraband. Lower security prisons, prisons providing substance use treatment, and those employing more women staff had fewer contraband drugs, weapons, and cellphones. Providing outside work opportunities and work-release programs also reduced contraband weapons.
Information Processing Biases and Attachment Styles in Adolescents with Dissociative Disorders
Authors: Nag Ritwika , Goyal Nishant , Bhattacharyya Madhumita
Published: March 2024

Background:

Dissociative disorders invade and interfere with the person’s continuity of normal psychological functioning and exhibit slower or impaired processing of threat-related information and attachment styles play a significant role in their psychopathology. The present study assessed the type of attachment style and information processing biases and their relationship in adolescents with dissociative disorders.

Methods:

This was a hospital-based study, with a cross-sectional design based on purposive sampling. The study consisted of 50 participants between 11 and 17 years of age. Twenty-five of them were adolescents diagnosed with dissociative disorders and 25 were healthy adolescent controls. The Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale was used to assess the severity of dissociative disorders in adolescents. Emotional Stroop, Emotion Face dot-probe task and attachment style questionnaires were administered.

Results:

Findings suggested an association between the scores in the attachment style dimension of discomfort with closeness and information-processing biases in both the dot-probe and emotional Stroop tasks. There was also an association between the processing bias in the dot-probe task and relationships as a secondary attachment dimension. There was a difference in the two groups of adolescents with dissociative disorders and matched healthy adolescents with respect to the discomfort with closeness attachment style and information-processing bias scores of the dot-probe task.

Conclusion:

The study provides interesting insights into how information-processing biases correlate to attachment styles in adolescents with dissociative disorders. Results indicate extensive resources for future management.
Assessing Bike-Transit Accessibility
Authors: Passmore Reid , Watkins Kari , Guensler Randall
Published: March 2024

Bicycles are a potential first-last mile mode that can augment the service area of public transit, yet it is difficult to fully account for bike-to-transit trips in planning and travel demand modeling processes. This paper presents a methodology for assessing bicycle first-last mile trips from one area to many possible areas using three visualizations on accessibility, travel times, and transit mode(s) utilized. Two configurations of bicycle first-last mile travel are considered: bringing the bicycle aboard transit to have the bicycle for biking at both ends of the trip (bike-transit-bike) and leaving the bike at the first stop (bike-transit-walk). Three locations in and near Atlanta, GA, U.S., are selected for analysis, and the optimal routes to all possible destinations in the transit service area are calculated for walk-transit-walk, bike-transit-walk, and bike-transit-bike. The walking and biking portions of trips are modeled using Dijkstra’s algorithm, and the transit portion is modeled using the round-based public transit optimized routing (RAPTOR) algorithm. Results indicate that bike-transit-bike and bike-transit-walk decrease travel and wait times for transit, and in many cases reduce the number of transfers required compared with walk-transit-walk. Transit services with higher travel speeds or frequencies, such as heavy rail, greatly increased the number of accessible destinations and reduced travel times. Thus, an origin’s distance to rail service had a major impact on the number of accessible TAZs. Planners and engineers can use this research to examine how public transit service changes and new cycling infrastructure can affect the accessibility of bike-transit trips.
Field Assessment of Variable Left-Turn Mode by Time-of-Day for Intersections Being Upgraded With Flashing Yellow Arrow Signal Heads and Offset Left-Turn Lanes
Authors: Biswas Pranesh , Kang Min-Wook , Hossain Md. Rezwan , Rahman Moynur
Published: March 2024

The present study conducted a field assessment of variable left-turn (VLT) mode by time-of-day (TOD) plan for signalized intersections being upgraded with offset left-turn lanes and four-section vertical flashing yellow arrow (FYA) signal heads in Alabama. The VLT-TOD plan involved changing left-turn phasing from protected-permissive left-turn to permissive by TOD, based on left-turn and corresponding opposing traffic volume criteria at selected intersections. Consequently, the field assessment involved comparing surrogate safety and traffic operational measures for permissive left-turn and through traffic movements before and after the VLT-TOD implementation. Video and signal event data were collected in before and after conditions of the VLT-TOD implementation for the field assessment. The before–after comparison of safety and operational measures revealed that the VLT-TOD plan coupled with the FYA signal heads facilitated improved operational efficiency for the through traffic without compromising the safety and traffic operations of left-turning drivers at the study sites during the TOD hours. The results showed that surrogate measures, such as critical gap, postencroachment time, and follow-up time for permissive left-turns, remained unchanged before and after implementing the VLT-TOD plan, whereas a significant increase in the percent of green arrivals for through traffic was observed. The results are promising as they indicate that at signalized intersections with significant traffic volume fluctuation, the VLT by TOD plan utilizing the four-section FYA signal heads has the potential to significantly enhance overall traffic operations, particularly in situations in which drivers do not encounter sight-distance issues during the permissive left-turn phases.
Governing the West Bank: What Role Do Elite Level Civil Servants Actively Represent?
Authors: O’Connor Karl , Shahwan Usamah
Published: March 2024

Representative bureaucracy is used to understand original data, shedding light on the administrative side of the politico-administrative axis in one part of one of the world’s most contentious and divisive conflicts: the Palestinian Israeli conflict. We theorize and test six different theoretically existent roles of elite level bureaucrat (ELB) role conceptions in the West Bank. Using Q Methodology in 22 ELB interviews, we identify two empirically existent bureaucrat role conceptions associated with serving the public: one traditional Wilsonian/Weberian; the other a coproducer of public policy. Bureaucrats serve the entire population, as in public service motivation, not a sub-section. They believe that politics and bureaucracy should be separate and share concerns that bureaucratic independence is in jeopardy. The discovery of these profiles suggests that both pro-social and active representations on behalf of primary identities are notably absent, suggesting further investigation is required into bureaucrat role conceptions in the fragile or developing society.
A generic mathematical model for gate-to-gate carbon emissions in laser materials processing
Authors: Reduan Muhammad Tajuddin , Mativenga Paul , Li Lin , Ouyang Jinglei , Mirhosseini Nazanin , Liu Zhu
Published: March 2024

The manufacturing industry needs to reduce carbon emissions in support of the net-zero agenda. Carbon emissions are classified into three operational groups based on the framework of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol. Although extensive research has been undertaken, this has focused on energy consumption, which contributes to Scope 2 emissions only. In order to address a knowledge gap relating to the total environmental burden of laser material processing, the paper develops a generic mathematical model covering all three operational groups of emissions in relation to the gate-to-gate scope of life cycle assessment. The model was applied to selective laser removal of coating to evaluate the environmental burden and to understand which impact factor contributes the highest emissions. Scope 2 emissions had the highest contribution to the environmental burden in the laser removal of coatings from substrates compared to Scope 1 and 3. The mathematical model provides a simple, accessible and less complex tool for evaluating carbon emissions in laser processing. This supports the net-zero emission agenda.
Preview-based terrain adaptive active suspension control strategy for heavy-duty trucks
Authors: Ma Yuecheng , Yue Ming , Xu Chen , Pang Ludian , Shangguan Jinyong
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a preview-based active suspension control method for heavy-duty trucks, where the vehicle front wheel terrain preview information is employed to improve the performance of the rear, focusing on enhancing the handling stability and vehicle smoothness. To begin with, the vehicle front wheel preview information is introduced to the half-vehicle model, and a state quantity is employed to calculate the time lag between front and rear for predicting the control input of the rear wheel. Secondly, based on the developed model, an [Formula: see text] controller is designed with the half-vehicle model based on the current stochastic linear optimal control combined with the preview controller, which provides more stable effect than the prior controllers by merging perceived ground information. Furthermore, an established seven-degree-of-freedom vehicle suspension model is utilized for the preview-based controller to govern the kinetic behavior of the heavy-duty truck, allowing for a more thorough analysis of operation smoothness and vehicle stability. At last, the vehicle comparison simulations are carried out, which indicates that the preview-based [Formula: see text] controller designed by inspecting the terrain preview information can straighten out the smoothness and safety of the heavy-duty truck more effectively in contrast with the LQG controller.
Climate change by any other name: Social representations and language practices of coastal inhabitants on Mayotte Island in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Mori Miki , Longépée Esméralda , Lefer-Sauvage Gaëlle , Banos Arnaud , Becu Nicolas , Charpentier Philippe , Claverie Thomas , Jeanson Matthieu , Le Duff Matthieu , Provitolo Damienne , Stoica Georgeta
Published: March 2024

As population-related climate change research increases, so does the need to nuance approaches to this complex phenomenon, including issues related to cultural and linguistic translations. To explore how climate change is understood in understudied societies, a case-study approach is taken to address social representations of climate change by inhabitants of a Maore village in the French island of Mayotte. The study explores how local fishers understand the issue when considering observed environmental changes. Based on analyses of 30 interviews, the study found that social representations and related climate change discourses are not well established, except for individuals in close contact with French institutions. Issues regarding local culture and language reveal the importance of understanding the different components of climate change. Climate change communication and awareness-raising on the island are explored, as well as considerations of culturally and linguistically complex settings with a Global North/Global South interface.
Entrepreneurial Resilience and Business Survival: The Mediating Role of Self-compassion
Authors: Isichei Ejikeme Emmanuel , Olabosinde Samuel Taiwo , Shaibu Blessing
Published: March 2024

The growing decline in the survival rate of most small-scale enterprises (SSEs) has remained a source of concern for stakeholders and the absence of an integrative model that explains the process through which resilience drives business survival has made for an unclear relationship. Hence, this article addresses the mediating effect of self-compassion on entrepreneurial resilience and business survival. A dataset of 260 entrepreneurs was analysed with the aid of SmartPLSv3.9. The study found that entrepreneurial resilience and self-compassion significantly affect business survival and self-compassion mediates the link between entrepreneurial resilience and business survival. The article provides an integrated model that accounts for the process through which entrepreneurial resilience influences business survival. Further, the article advances new knowledge on self-compassion by exploring its role in business survival. The study validates the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale and Raes et al.’s (2011) higher-order factor scale of self-compassion.
Access to Child Psychotherapy in High- and Low/Middle-income Nations: A Cross-national Perspective and Potential Approaches
Authors: Pumariega Andres J. , Aneja Jitender , Sharma Prerna , Breton Kati , Thornton Keisha , Gann Stephanie , Rothe Eugenio
Published: March 2024

Psychotherapy of different types is recognized across the globe as an essential component of child and adolescent mental health services. At the same time, there are barriers and challenges in obtaining access to this modality that are as widespread as its acceptance. This article reviews barriers to accessing child and adolescent psychotherapy in high-income countries (HIC) as well as low/middle-income countries (LMIC). It also briefly reviews approaches to improve access using different interventions and modalities. We also report on our experience using one particular intervention, case management within pediatric collaborative care, as a promising approach for improving access in underserved populations.
Play Therapy: An Analytical Mode of Therapy in Children
Authors: Chauhan Nidhi , Sachdeva Diksha , Malhotra Savita , Gupta Nitin
Published: March 2024

Childhood play assumes a myriad of forms, each offering a unique canvas for growth. Physical play builds motor skills and body awareness, while imaginative play nurtures expression, creativity, and conflict resolution. Social interactions within a play therapy environment foster co-operation, empathy, and social understanding. Cognitive development is stimulated through problem solving; emotional development is nurtured through expression of emotions. All these modalities are used in the context of various theories of development and have given rise to a number of techniques of play therapy, each following either a single approach or in some cases an eclectic approach. This chapter unveils the world of play therapy, its origins, core principles, and the transformative potential it holds for children.
“Complex Problems Don’t Require Complex Solutions:” Case Discussions Using Solution Focused Brief Therapy
Authors: Arora Jonaki , Jose Sandra
Published: March 2024

This article illustrates solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) through two case stories, showcasing its pragmatic approach in addressing complex issues with adolescents. SFBT emphasizes strengths, possibilities, and collaborative conversations to co-create solutions. Two case studies of learning disorder and ADHD highlight the significance of focusing on strengths and interests in enabling therapeutic progress and how goal-setting and solution-oriented discussions can foster agency and consistency. These vignettes underscore SFBT’s future-focused and goal-directed nature, prioritizing strengths and the client’s capacity for change. By adhering to SFBT’s philosophy, the therapists guided the clients toward practical and effective solutions to meet their challenges.
Exploring the interplay between EFL learners’ L2 writing boredom, writing motivation, and boredom coping strategies
Authors: Solhi Mehdi , Derakhshan Ali , Pawlak Mirosław , Ünsal-Görkemoğlu Büşra
Published: March 2024

This study set out to scrutinize the interplay between 338 (218 male and 120 female) English as a second or foreign language learners’ second language writing boredom (L2WB) and boredom coping strategies, along with the mediating role of second language writing motivation (L2WM). Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis indicated that L2WB is negatively associated with L2WM in writing classes. Results also revealed a negative relationship between L2WB and cognitive as well as behavioral approaches to coping with boredom in second language (L2) writing practices. In addition, L2WM was positively predictive of cognitive approach strategy while being negatively predictive of cognitive avoidance strategy in coping with boredom. Results also showed significant indirect effects of L2WB on both cognitive-oriented strategies (i.e. cognitive approach strategy and cognitive avoidance strategy) via L2WM. The implications for L2 teachers, teacher educators, and materials developers are discussed.
Biopiezoelectromagnetic and mechanical effect
Authors: Andreucci Carlos Aurelio , Fonseca Elza M M , Jorge Renato N
Published: March 2024

The study of the functional living organism through biological phenomena and their piezoelectric and electromagnetic interaction of particles and energy in the functional cells of organ systems that sustain life through homeostasis, and their relationship with the external environment, can be observed as a unique effect called the biopiezoelectromagnetic effect. Research in sciences, combined with the use of innovative technological tools and instruments at scales ranging from the subatomic to the astrophysical, have made it possible to observe, through these individual or combined effects, a phenomenon that is repeated in all structures: the conservation of elemental information. This approach makes it possible to research from the particle to the functional living organism in its environment and vice versa. It is possible to propose theories that link energy, particles and cells and their organised structural complexes within the same framework, analysing the biopiezoelectromagnetic effect and the constant effort to maintain the homeostasis of living organisms in an entropic environment. Biomaterials composed of crystals and quasicrystals promote the piezoelectric effect in living tissue-biomaterial contact. The piezoelectric effect is already known to stimulate and form a fibrocartilaginous bone callus and its subsequent hardening into mature bone but has never been directly associated with homeostasis, osseointegrated implants and biomaterial bonding. The synthesis described by evidence-based experiments over the past centuries is robust to describe the biopiezoelectromagnetic effect as a cascade of events in the functional living organism to maintain homeostasis and its binding properties as the basis of osseointegration and the foundation of biocompatibility.
Book review: M. Govinda Rao. Studies in Indian Public Finance
Authors: Rath Anita
Published: March 2024

M. Govinda Rao. Studies in Indian Public Finance. Oxford University Press, 2022, 250pp., ₹1,495. ISBN: 9780192849601.
Comparative Assessment of Online Written Health Information on Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in English and Hindi Language Webpages
Authors: Mathur Rahul , Singh Swarndeep , Kumar Saurabh , Kukreja Sarthak , Sharma Pawan
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

To assess and compare the overall quality of online written information on the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in English and Hindi language webpages. Also, correlates of the quality of online health information were explored.

Methods:

First 50 links obtained on Google search in both English and Hindi language were screened, and a total of 86 (45 English, 41 Hindi) webpages providing patient-oriented information on the treatment of ED were analysed. Content quality and reliability were assessed using the DISCERN scale and the JAMA benchmark criteria respectively. Additionally, aesthetics, interactivity, and readability were evaluated.

Results:

The DISCERN score indicative of content quality was significantly higher for English webpages compared to Hindi webpages. English webpages were more likely to meet disclosure and attribution JAMA criteria for the reliability of medical information. English webpages with HONcode certification were more likely to have better content quality than those without it. However, none of the Hindi web pages analyzed were HONcode certified.

Conclusion:

English language webpages provided better overall quality of information on treatment of ED as compared to Hindi language. HONcode label might be used as a proxy indicator of better content quality for online resources informing on ED treatment by laypersons. There is a need to develop and popularize the usage of HONcode or other similar online health information quality accreditation systems for webpages in non-English languages like Hindi.
The Impact of Radiation Therapy on Sexual Health in Breast, Cervix, and Prostate Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ballal Yashi , Aghaei Novin , Shaik Mohammed Shafiulla , Arora Sanjana , Khan Mahrukh , Vachon Tyler
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

To examine the effects of radiation therapy on sexual health in cervical, breast, and prostate cancer patients.

Methods:

Four electronic databases (PubMed/PubMed Central, Google Scholar, Embase(Ovid), and SCOPUS) were searched, and articles published in English from January 1, 2011, through 2022 were extracted. Five reviewers independently selected primary studies that reported patient sexual health symptoms caused by cervical, breast, or prostate cancer following radiation therapy treatment. The primary outcome measures sexual health trends during or after radiation therapy through external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy where applicable. Secondary outcomes measured predictive factors contributing to sexual health scores (age, race, and geographical location).

Results:

32 studies with a total of 5033 individuals were included in the systematic review. Overall, 19 studies reported a reduction in sexual health trends, 8 reported mixed trends, and 4 reported no significant trends in sexual health. Of the 10 breast cancer studies, 6 reported decreased sexual well-being, 2 found no trends, and 2 stated mixed trends. Among 12 prostate cancer studies, 5 reported worsening sexual health, 2 found no trends, 1 reported positive sexual functioning, and 4 found mixed trends. Among 10 cervical cancer studies, 8 reported worse sexual health, while 2 reported mixed trends. Younger breast and cervical cancer patients who received radiation therapy experienced greater body image and sexual health concerns. Evidence was insufficient to evaluate trends in geographical location or race between sexual health and radiation therapy.

Conclusion:

In this study, prostate, breast, and cervical cancer patients who received radiation therapy treatment experienced more troublesome sexual health symptoms compared to non-irradiated cancer patients. Interventions to improve sexual health should be prioritized.
The experience of traumatic events, psychological distress, and social support: links to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and trends with age in a group of older Australians
Authors: Christou-Ergos Maria , Wiley Kerrie E. , Leask Julie
Published: March 2024

Background

Vaccination is important to reduce disease-associated morbidity and mortality in an ageing global population. While older adults are more likely than younger adults to accept vaccines, some remain hesitant. We sought to understand how traumatic events, psychological distress and social support contribute to older adults’ intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and whether these experiences change with age.

Methods

We analysed survey data collected as part of the Sax Institute’s 45 and Up Study in a population of Australian adults aged 60 years and over. Data were derived from the COVID Insights study; a series of supplementary surveys about how participants experienced the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

Higher intention to receive a COVID-19 vaccine was associated with greater social support (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):1.08; 95%CI:1.06–1.11; p <.001) while lower intention was associated with personally experiencing a serious illness, injury or assault in the last 12 months (aOR:0.79; 95% CI:0.64–0.98; p =.03). Social support and the experience of traumatic events increased significantly with age, while psychological distress decreased.

Conclusions

There may be factors beyond disease-associated risks that play a role in vaccine acceptance with age. Older Australians on the younger end of the age spectrum may have specific needs to address their hesitancy that may be overlooked.
MicroRNA expression as a prognostic biomarker of tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Yiwei , Li Yuxiao , Zhou Wenjuan , Liu Zhonghao
Published: March 2024

Background

Recent studies have indicated that microRNA (miRNA) expression in tumour tissues has prognostic significance in Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) patients. This study explored the possible prognostic value of miRNAs for TSCC based on published research.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of multiple databases was conducted according to predefined eligibility criteria. Data were extracted from the included studies by two researchers, and HR results were determined based on Kaplan‒Meier curves according to the Tierney method. The Newcastle‒Ottawa Scale (NOS) and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) pro-GDT were applied to assess the quality of all studies. Publication bias was estimated by funnel plot, Egger’s rank correlation test and sensitivity analysis.

Results

Eleven studies (891patients) were included, of which 6 reported up-regulated miRNAs and 7 mentioned down-regulated miRNAs. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) from the prognostic indicator overall survival (OS) was 1.34 (1.25–1.44), p < 0.00001, indicating a significant difference in miRNA expression between TSCC patients with better or worse prognosis.

Conclusion

MiRNAs may have high prognostic value and could be used as prognostic biomarkers of TSCC.
Very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD): a therapeutic nutritional tool for acne?
Authors: Verde Ludovica , Frias-Toral Evelyn , Cacciapuoti Sara , Simancas-Racines Daniel , Megna Matteo , Caiazzo Giuseppina , Potestio Luca , Maisto Maria , Tenore Gian Carlo , Colao Annamaria , Savastano Silvia , Muscogiuri Giovanna , Barrea Luigi
Published: March 2024

Background

Acne, a chronic inflammatory disease impacting the pilosebaceous unit, is influenced significantly by inflammation and oxidative stress, and is commonly associated with obesity. Similarly, obesity is also associated with increased inflammation and oxidation. The role of diet in acne remains inconclusive, but the very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD), known for weight loss and generating anti-inflammatory ketone bodies, presents promising potential. Despite this, the effects of VLCKD on acne remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of a 45-day active phase of VLCKD in reducing the clinical severity of acne in young women with treatment-naïve moderate acne and grade I obesity.

Methods

Thirty-one women with treatment-naïve moderate acne, grade I obesity (BMI 30.03–34.65 kg/m2), aged 18–30 years, meeting inclusion/exclusion criteria, and consenting to adhere to VLCKD were recruited. Baseline and post-intervention assessments included anthropometric measurements, body composition, phase angle (PhA), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) levels, and reactive oxygen metabolite derivatives (dROMs) as markers of inflammation, dysbiosis, and oxidative stress, respectively. A comprehensive dermatological examination, incorporating the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), was conducted for all women.

Results

VLCKD resulted in general improvements in anthropometric and body composition parameters. Significantly, there were significant reductions in both the GAGS score (Δ%: − 31.46 ± 9.53, p < 0.001) and the DLQI score (Δ%: − 45.44 ± 24.02, p < 0.001) after the intervention. These improvements coincided with significant decreases in TMAO (p < 0.001) and dROMs (p < 0.001) levels and a significant increase in PhA (Δ%: + 8.60 ± 7.40, p < 0.001). Changes in the GAGS score positively correlated with changes in dROMs (p < 0.001) and negatively with PhA (p < 0.001) even after adjusting for Δ% FM. Changes in the DLQI score positively correlated with changes in dROMs (p < 0.001) and negatively with PhA (p < 0.001) even after adjustment for Δ% FM.

Conclusion

Given the side effects of drugs used for acne, there is an increasing need for safe, tolerable, and low-cost treatments that can be used for acne disease. The 45-day active phase of VLCKD demonstrated notable improvements in acne severity, and these improvements seemed to be attributable to the known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of VLCKD.

Graphical Abstract
Introduction of protein vaccine candidate based on AP65, AP33, and α-actinin proteins against Trichomonas vaginalis parasite: an immunoinformatics design
Authors: Ghasemi Nezhad Forozan , Karmostaji Afsaneh , Sarkoohi Parisa , Shahbazi Behzad , Gharibi Zahra , Negahdari Batul , Ahmadi Khadijeh
Published: March 2024

Background

Trichomonas vaginalis is the most common nonviral sexually transmitted disease (STI) worldwide. Vaccination is generally considered to be one of the most effective methods of preventing infectious diseases. Using AP65, AP33 and α-actinin proteins, this research aims to develop a protein vaccine against Trichomonas vaginalis.

Methods

Based on the B-cell and T-cell epitope prediction servers, the most antigenic epitopes were selected, and with the necessary evaluations, epitope-rich domains of three proteins, AP65, AP33, and α-actinin, were selected and linked. Subsequently, the ability of the vaccine to interact with toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4) was assessed. The stability of the interactions was also studied by molecular dynamics for a duration of 100 nanoseconds.

Results

The designed protein consists of 780 amino acids with a molecular weight of 85247.31 daltons. The results of the interaction of the vaccine candidate with TLR2 and TLR4 of the immune system also showed that there are strong interactions between the vaccine candidate protein with TLR2 (-890.7 kcal mol-1) and TLR4 (-967.3 kcal mol-1). All parameters studied to evaluate the stability of the protein structure and the protein-TLR2 and protein-TLR4 complexes showed that the structure of the vaccine candidate protein is stable alone and in complex with the immune system receptors. Investigation of the ability of the designed protein to induce an immune response using the C-ImmSim web server also showed that the designed protein is capable of stimulating B- and T-cell lymphocytes to produce the necessary cytokines and antibodies against Trichomonas vaginalis.

Conclusions

Overall, our vaccine may have potential protection against Trichomonas vaginalis. However, for experimental in vivo and in vitro studies, it may be a good vaccine candidate.

Graphical Abstract
Post-radiation lichen planus: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Musick Adam N. , Kim Do Young , Baumrucker Steven J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Lichen planus is a T-cell mediated inflammatory disorder of the skin and mucus membranes and is a rare complication of external beam radiation.

Case presentation

64 year old White male who presented to dermatology with a lesion at the lateral aspect of the right thigh. The lesion was first noted 40 years prior and had grown from 1.5 cm to 6.5 cm in the ensuing years. On examination the lesion was raised, hypopigmented, with pearly borders and central ulceration. Wide excision with lymph node dissection demonstrated invasive squamous cell carcinoma, basaloid type, with negative margins. Patient had radiation therapy of the right inguinal nodes. Patient subsequently noted a “blister” on the right upper thigh, which progressed over time to flat, polygonal, intensely pruritic lesions that covered the right lateral thigh from just distal to the hip to the distal third of the femur (Figs. 1, 2). Skin biopsy was positive for lichen planus. He was started on topical triamcinolone with salutary effects on appearance and pruritus.

Conclusion

Once more biopsy-proven cases of post-radiation lichen planus are reported, hopefully the exact mechanism can be elucidated. This may identify risk factors and aid in treatment, with the goal of limiting radiation toxicity and palliation of symptoms that may affect the quality of daily life.
Atypical lipoma of the right piriformis muscle: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Qiu Xiao , Luo Xiaoyong , Wu Renmei
Published: March 2024

Background

Piriformis muscle mass is rare, which is particular for intrapiriformis lipoma. Thus far, only 11 cases of piriformis muscle mass have been reported in the English literature. Herein, we encountered one patient with intrapiriformis lipoma who was initially misdiagnosed.

Case presentation

The patient is a 50-year-old Chinese man. He complained of osphyalgia, right buttock pain, and radiating pain from the right buttock to the back of the right leg. Both ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a cyst-like mass in the right piriformis muscle. Ultrasonography-guided aspiration was performed on this patient first, but failed. He was then recommended to undergo mass resection and neurolysis of sciatic nerve. Surprisingly, final histology revealed the diagnosis of intrapiriformis lipoma. The patient exhibited significant relief of symptoms 3 days post-surgery.

Conclusion

Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of radicular pain are potentially challenging but necessary. Atypical lipoma is prone to be misdiagnosed, especially in rare sites. It is notable for clinicians to be aware of the presence of intrapiriformis lipoma to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
FOXO1 reshapes neutrophils to aggravate acute brain damage and promote late depression after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Zhou Mi , Liu Yang-Wu-Yue , He Yu-Hang , Zhang Jing-Yu , Guo Hao , Wang Hao , Ren Jia-Kui , Su Yi-Xun , Yang Teng , Li Jia-Bo , He Wen-Hui , Ma Peng-Jiao , Mi Man-Tian , Dai Shuang-Shuang
Published: March 2024

Background

Neutrophils are traditionally viewed as first responders but have a short onset of action in response to traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the heterogeneity, multifunctionality, and time-dependent modulation of brain damage and outcome mediated by neutrophils after TBI remain poorly understood.

Methods

Using the combined single-cell transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics analysis from TBI patients and the TBI mouse model, we investigate a novel neutrophil phenotype and its associated effects on TBI outcome by neurological deficit scoring and behavioral tests. We also characterized the underlying mechanisms both in vitro and in vivo through molecular simulations, signaling detections, gene expression regulation assessments [including dual-luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays], primary cultures or co-cultures of neutrophils and oligodendrocytes, intracellular iron, and lipid hydroperoxide concentration measurements, as well as forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) conditional knockout mice.

Results

We identified that high expression of the FOXO1 protein was induced in neutrophils after TBI both in TBI patients and the TBI mouse model. Infiltration of these FOXO1high neutrophils in the brain was detected not only in the acute phase but also in the chronic phase post-TBI, aggravating acute brain inflammatory damage and promoting late TBI-induced depression. In the acute stage, FOXO1 upregulated cytoplasmic Versican (VCAN) to interact with the apoptosis regulator B-cell lymphoma-2 (BCL-2)-associated X protein (BAX), suppressing the mitochondrial translocation of BAX, which mediated the antiapoptotic effect companied with enhancing interleukin-6 (IL-6) production of FOXO1high neutrophils. In the chronic stage, the “FOXO1-transferrin receptor (TFRC)” mechanism contributes to FOXO1high neutrophil ferroptosis, disturbing the iron homeostasis of oligodendrocytes and inducing a reduction in myelin basic protein, which contributes to the progression of late depression after TBI.

Conclusions

FOXO1high neutrophils represent a novel neutrophil phenotype that emerges in response to acute and chronic TBI, which provides insight into the heterogeneity, reprogramming activity, and versatility of neutrophils in TBI.