bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prompt, Objective, and Accurate Measurement of Rat Abdominal Flap Blood Flow Using Laser Speckle Flowgraphy
Authors: Tsunekawa Kazuhiro , Takashimizu Ikkei , Yuzuriha Shunsuke
Published: August 2024

Background:

The indications for free flap procedures have expanded, with recent technical advances enhancing procedural safety. However, few objective indicators exist to monitor flap status during and after the operation. This experimental study assessed laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG) as a prompt and accurate indicator of free flap blood flow.

Methods:

After elevating bilateral lower abdomen flaps with superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) and superficial inferior epigastric vein vasculature in Wistar rats, the right flap with the SIEA was cut (ischemic group) or the superficial inferior epigastric vein was cut (congestive group), and the unaltered left flaps were monitored using LSFG every 5 minutes for a 30-minute period. Flap survival or necrosis was assessed after 7 days.

Results:

In the ischemic group, LSFG measurements were significantly lower after cutting the SIEA than beforehand (74% at 5 minutes and 72% at 30 minutes). Similar findings were seen in the congestive group (63% at 5 minutes and 55% at 30 minutes). LSFG measurements were significantly lower in the congestive group than in the ischemic group. Seven days afterward, whereas all right-side flaps with cut vessels were necrotic, all unaltered left-side flaps had survived.

Conclusions:

Our preliminary results demonstrated that LSFG could objectively identify abnormal blood flow in skin flaps as early as 5 minutes into surgery and predict graft survival. LSFG may potentially enable quick and objective assessment of flap blood flow and reduce the risk of complications and flap loss.
Analysis of the Characteristics of Patients Visiting the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Polyclinic
Authors: Tsukahara Yuka , Mountjoy Margo , Takazawa Yuji , Yagishita Kazuyoshi , Ohuchi Hiroshi , Akagi Ryuichiro , Katayose Masaki , Fujiwara Sayaka , Engebretsen Lars
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the characteristics of patients who visited the Polyclinic during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and analyze geographical and economic correlations with the number of clinic visits.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Polyclinic during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Participants:

Patients who visited the Polyclinic.

Intervention:

Data from the electronic medical record system of the Polyclinic were extracted.

Main Outcome Measures:

The number of visits for each athlete or team official was calculated by country. Relationship between number of visits per patient and total number of team members, total health expenditure per capita, density of medical doctors, life expectancy at birth, and education expenditure per gross domestic product (GDP) were investigated. Independent variables related to medal tables were also investigated.

Results:

The average number of visits per athlete was 0.67, and it was higher in athletes from non–high-income countries compared with high-income countries for both male and female athletes. Number of visits per athlete was higher in countries with low life expectancy at birth (95% CI, −0.16 to −0.02, P = 0.012) and education expenditure per GDP (95% CI, −0.17 to −0.04, P = 0.003).

Conclusions:

During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the number of visits to the Polyclinic per athlete was higher in countries with low life expectancy at birth and education expenditure per GDP.
Effect of a semirigid ankle brace on the in vivo kinematics and muscle activity of patients with functional ankle instability during simulated ankle sprain
Authors: Zhang Gonghao , Zha Chaochao , Cao Shengxuan , Xiong Li , Huang Ping , Zhang Guoning , Ji Yunhan
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Ankle braces can effectively decrease the incidence of recurrent ankle sprain; however, whether the brace can decrease the severity of sprain and its related mechanism during sprain remain unknown.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients with functional ankle instability (FAI) (12 males and 10 females) and 16 healthy subjects (8 males and 8 females) were enrolled in this study. All of the subjects walked on a custom-built tilting platform that offered a 30° inversion (IV) to mimic the IV of ankle sprain. We collected the kinematic and surface electromyography data of patients with FAI with or without ankle brace and normal controls 6 times.

Results:

The FAI without brace group showed significantly higher maximum IV angles and average IV velocities than the control group (P < .001). The FAI with brace group revealed significantly lower maximum IV angles and average IV velocities than the FAI without brace group (P < .001); this group also showed significantly higher maximum external rotation (ER) angle and average ER velocities than the FAI with brace (P < .001) and control (P < .001) groups. The FAI with brace group indicated significantly lower average EMGPrep(P = .047), EMGTilt(P = .037), and EMGafterTilt(P = .004) of the peroneus longus than the FAI without brace group.

Conclusions:

The ankle brace could effectively decrease IV angles and their velocities and increase ER angles and their corresponding velocities during ankle sprain in patients with FAI. It could also decrease the activity of the peroneus longus muscle during ankle sprain.
The relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for organizational change among nurses
Authors: Mderis Walaa , Abu Shosha Ghada , Oweidat Islam , Al-Mugheed Khalid , Farghaly Abdelaliem Sally Mohammed , Alabdullah Amany Anwar Saeed , Alzoubi Majdi M.
Published: August 2024

Organizational change is a complex process that often faces high failure rates due to challenges in managing transition issues. The role of emotional intelligence in fostering readiness for organizational change among nurses remains understudied, especially in the context of Jordan. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for organizational change among Jordanian nurses working in governmental hospitals. A descriptive cross sectional correlational design was used. A convenient sampling method was used to enroll Jordanian nurses from different governmental hospitals, with a resulting final sample of 250 nurses. Self-reported questionnaires were used to collect data. Data analysis was run using descriptive and inferential analysis. The findings revealed that the participants had moderate levels of emotional intelligence with a mean score of (M = 87.96, SD = 26.59). The participants demonstrated strengths in understanding their own emotions, perceiving others’ emotions, and setting goals. They also showed good control of their emotions and a positive self-perception. Regarding readiness for organizational change, the mean score was (M = 39.58, SD = 11.16), suggesting a moderate level of readiness. The participants exhibited commitment, motivation, and confidence in handling challenges associated with change. A strong positive relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for change commitment (r = .942,P < .01), change efficacy (r = .935,P < .01), and total readiness for change (r = .951,P < .01) were exist. Moreover, age and years of experience were negatively correlated with readiness for change. There was a strong and significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for change. This emphasizes the importance of developing emotional intelligence abilities among nurses to facilitate successful change processes in healthcare organizations.
Bioinformatics analysis of the tumor microenvironment in melanoma – Constructing a prognostic model based on CD8+ T cell-related genes: An observational study
Authors: He Zhenghao , Chen Manli , Luo Zhijun
Published: August 2024

This research endeavor seeks to explore the microenvironment of melanoma tumors and construct a prognostic model by focusing on genes specific to CD8+ T cells. The single-cell sequencing data of melanoma underwent processing with the Seurat package, subsequent to which cell communication network analysis was conducted using the iTALK package and transcription factor analysis was performed using the SCENIC package. Univariate COX and LASSO regression analyses were utilized to pinpoint genes linked to the prognosis of melanoma patients, culminating in the creation of a prognostic model through multivariate COX analysis. The model was validated using the GSE65904 and GSE35640 datasets. Multi-omics analysis was conducted utilizing the maftools, limma, edgeR, ChAMP, and clusterProfiler packages. The examination of single-cell sequencing data revealed the presence of 8 cell types, with the transcription factors RFXAP, CLOCK, MGA, RBBP, and ZNF836 exhibiting notably high expression levels in CD8+ T cells as determined by the SCENIC package. Utilizing these transcription factors and their associated target genes, a prognostic model was developed through COX and LASSO analyses, incorporating the genes GPR171, FAM174A, and BPI. This study validated the model with independent datasets and conducted additional analysis involving multi-omics and immune infiltration to identify a more favorable prognosis for patients in the low-risk group. The findings provide valuable insights into the tumor microenvironment of melanoma and establish a reliable prognostic model. The integration of multi-omics and immune infiltration analyses enhances our understanding of the pathogenesis of melanoma. The identification of specific genes holds promise as potential biomarkers for individuals with melanoma, serving as important indicators for predicting patient outcomes and determining their response to immunotherapy.
Assessment of knowledge of the new pregnancy and lactation labeling rule among pharmacists and physicians in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alem Ghada , Ahmed Nehad , Aldurayhim Hissah , Almukhaizeem Rawan , Almalki Ziyad , Alshehri Ahmed , Alahmari Abdullah
Published: August 2024

Researchers in Saudi Arabia conducted this study to determine the level of familiarity that pharmacists and physicians possess with the pregnancy and lactation labeling rules established by the Food and Drug Administration. The present study included a cross-sectional survey conducted among pharmacists and physicians working in Saudi Arabia. The sample size was determined using the Rao sample size calculator. We utilized the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for our analysis. A total of 122 respondents completed the study. Among them, 72.9% were aged between 25 and 44 years, and approximately 63.9% were male. About 64% of the respondents indicated familiarity with the A, B, C, D, and X letter system of pregnancy category labeling. Over 37% stated that the new pregnancy and lactation labeling rule would continue to use the lettering system. Additionally, 83% believed that the A, B, C, D, and X risk category labeling system is a useful resource, and 82% believed that working with this risk category labeling improves patient care. The study revealed that pharmacists and physicians exhibited good knowledge of the old rule but a low level of knowledge regarding the new rule. Despite significant flaws in the old system, most preferred it. Enhancing knowledge in this area is crucial for improving risk communication and the quality of care for women of reproductive age.
Assessing medication use patterns among patients with polycystic ovary syndrome at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South Korea: A retrospective study
Authors: Yu Ji Hye , Moon Mi Kyung , Ahn Hyo Cho , Yang Young-Mo
Published: August 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disease caused by excessive ovarian androgen secretion due to hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian hormone abnormalities. We retrospectively investigated the treatment status of patients diagnosed with PCOS who visited a domestic tertiary hospital in order to analyze the use patterns and safety of drugs. Patients diagnosed with PCOS between July 2014 and September 2022 were examined, excluding patients younger than 13 years and those not receiving medication. Patients aged 21 years or younger were designated as the adolescent group and patients aged 22 years or older were designated as the adult group for comparative statistical analysis. The total number of patients was 212, including 105 adolescents (49.5%) and 107 adults (50.5%). Comorbidities were ovarian cyst in 20 (9.4%) patients, endometriosis in 19 (9%), diabetes in 14 (6.6%), thyroid dysfunction in 12 (5.7%), hypertension in 10 (4.7%), dyslipidemia in 10 (4.7%), and androgenic alopecia in 6 (2.8%). Symptoms were oligomenorrhea in 91 (42.9%) patients, amenorrhea in 72 (34%), hirsutism in 36 (17%), acne in 24 (11.3%), and infertility in 10 (4.7%). During the study period, 114 patients (53.8%) were prescribed medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), 66 (31.1%) were given oral contraceptives (specifically, ethinyl estradiol + drospirenone prescribed to 52 (24.5%)), and 17 (8%) were concurrently prescribed MPA and oral contraceptives. Forty-five (21.2%) patients changed prescriptions, with 10 (22.2%) switching due to side effects and 8 (17.8%) due to a therapeutic failure. A total of 5 patients (2.4%) discontinued the drug. Adverse drug reactions occurred in 15 patients (7.1%), with 5 being adolescents (4.8%) and 10 being adults (9.3%). MPA alone and ethinyl estradiol with drospirenone were the most prescribed medications for PCOS. Over the study, 45 patients changed prescriptions, 50 were lost to follow-up, and 5 adults discontinued medications.
Exploring the association of hyperhomocysteinemia with early pregnancy losses: A retrospective case–control study in a tertiary clinic in Türkiye
Authors: Dogan Gul Ozel , Sahin Orhan
Published: August 2024

A disturbance in the metabolism of homocysteine in both the mother and the fetus has been implicated in several placental vasculopathy-related disorders, including pregnancy loss. This study aimed to provide insights into the potential role of homocysteine, Vitamin B12, and folic acid in early pregnancy losses, with a specific focus on the Turkish population. The results of 93 pregnant women who experienced miscarriage between 5 and 14 gestational weeks and 93 healthy pregnant women at the same gestational weeks were compared. The demographic and pregnancy characteristics of all pregnant women were recorded. Vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine levels were measured in serum samples obtained from the groups at similar gestational weeks. In addition, any associations between these biomarkers and different types of pregnancy loss, such as spontaneous abortion and missed abortion, were evaluated. Vitamin B12 and folic acid serum levels were significantly lower in women with miscarriages (P = .019, P < .001, respectively). Homocysteine levels were higher in the patient group (P < .001). Logistic regression analysis showed that a higher homocysteine level was the only predictive factor of miscarriage (P = .001, odds ratio = 0.596); however, folic acid and Vitamin B12 were not predictive factors. There was no significant difference in homocysteine and micronutrient levels between women with missed abortions and women with spontaneous abortions (P > .05). Our results support the continuing evidence of a link between maternal homocysteine levels and fetal loss. However, in exploring the shared pathways in the underlying mechanisms causing the 2 forms of pregnancy loss, maternal blood analysis showed no relationship.
Categories of anxiety based on latent class analysis in gestational diabetes mellitus and associated factors: A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study
Authors: Qin Hong , Wang Fulan , Wang Lin
Published: August 2024

To investigate the classification of anxiety based on potential category analysis in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) patients and the associated factors. This questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted on GDM patients admitted to a Grade III-A general hospital using convenience sampling between March and November 2021. Latent class analysis was utilized for classification. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with anxiety. A total of 215 valid questionnaires were collected, yielding a response rate of 99%. GDM patients were classified into 4 potential categories: low anxiety (54%), high anxiety (21%), worried about the fetus (11%), and worried about delivery (14%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, compared with low anxiety, education level, family history of diabetes, blood glucose changes, delivery mode schedule, knowledge score of GDM, and marital relationship scale score were independently associated with anxiety (P < .05). The number of births, education level, blood glucose changes, delivery mode schedule, and marital relationship scale score were independently associated with being worried about the fetus (P < .05). Education level, family history of diabetes, blood glucose changes, delivery mode schedule, knowledge score of GDM, and marital relationship scale score were independently associated with being worried about delivery (P < .05). Anxiety in GDM patients was categorized by latent class analysis into low anxiety (54%), high anxiety (21%), worried about the fetus (11%), and worried about delivery (14%). Education level, family history of diabetes, blood glucose changes, delivery mode schedule, GDM knowledge score, and marital relationship scale score might be associated with anxiety.
Primary intraspinal neuroendocrine tumor: A case report and literature review
Authors: Dai Li , Zou Ming-Ju , Liao Ren-Li , Zhang Bing-Ran , Ma Zhi-Qiang , Liu Ming-Wei
Published: August 2024

Rationale:

Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) refer to a group of uncommon tumors arising in the neuroendocrine system. Most NETs occur in the digestive tract and bronchi but are rare in the central nervous system, especially in the spinal canal. NET in the central nervous system mainly metastasize from other systems, with non-specific clinical symptoms. In this study, we report the diagnosis and treatment of intraspinal NET to provide clinical guidance as well as to avoid misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.

Patient concerns:

A 59-year-old male patient, presented with recurrent right lower limb pain for half a year, accompanied by numbness and weakness for 4 months and aggravation for 2 months. Lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a space-occupying lesion in the spinal canal. The diagnosis of primary intraspinal NET was confirmed by topathological examination.

Diagnosis:

Primary intraspinal NET tumor.

Interventions:

Surgical resection.

Outcomes:

Significant improvements in right lower limb pain, numbness, and weakness were observed, and lumbar spine MRI was performed again to dynamically observe the changes in intraspinal NET.

Conclusions:

Surgical resection may be an effective treatment for intraspinal NETs.

Lessons:

Intraspinal NETs are relatively rare and mostly manifest as limb numbness, weakness, and pain. Due to its nonspecific clinical symptoms, intraspinal NETs are easily misdiagnosed as lumbar disc herniation with radiculopathy and lumbar spondylolisthesis. Therefore, in patients with long-term symptoms, in addition to common lumbar neuromuscular diseases, lumbar MRI should be performed promptly to exclude the possibility of lumbar NETs.
Predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for caregivers of children with developmental disabilities in Saudi Arabia: An observational study
Authors: Alghamdi Mohammed S. , Awali Abdulaziz
Published: August 2024

To examine predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for caregivers of children with developmental disabilities, a cross-sectional design was used. Participants were primary caregivers of children with developmental disabilities. Caregivers completed a demographic form about the child and the family, and the Arabic version of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Profile 29 (PROMIS-29 v2.0). Descriptive statistics were used to report on demographic data, 1-sample Z tests to compare PROMIS domain scores with the general population, and multiple linear regression analyses to identify predictors of each domain. Participants were 111 primary caregivers, mostly mothers (65.8%). Caregivers reported higher levels of anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and pain interference, and lower levels of physical function and social participation compared to the general population, P < .05. The regression models for predicting the HRQoL accounted for 12.3% of the variance in the physical function domain (P = .016), 13.9% in the anxiety domain (P = .009), 24.7% in the ability to engage in social activities and roles (P < .001), and 11.4% in the pain interference domain (P = .02). In these models, the severity of the child’s disability and/or the child’s age were common significant predictors. Specifically, child’s age was the only significant predictor in 2 domains, the anxiety domain (β = −.29, P < .01) and ability to participate in social activities and roles domain (β = .42, P < .05). The severity of the child’s disability was the only significant predictor in the physical function domain (β = −.52, P < .01). Both the severity of the child’s disability and the child’s age were significant predictors in the pain interference model (β = .40, P < .05), and (β = −.23, P < .05), respectively. However, the models did not significantly predict depression, fatigue, or sleep disturbance, P > .05. HRQoL is a complex construct and is influenced by multiple child and family factors. Implications of the study emphasize the importance of regular HRQoL screening for caregivers, the development of efficient referral systems for support services, and the exploration of respite care options.
Association between frailty and cognitive status among ambulating Korean elderly: An observational study
Authors: Lee Sujin , Chung Jae Ho
Published: August 2024

We aimed to determine the association between frailty and cognitive status of the elderly population in Korea. We examined data from 9920 elders who participated in the 2020 Survey of Living Conditions and Welfare Needs of Korean Older Persons. Frailty was assessed using the Korean version of the Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, and Weight Loss scale. The Korean mini-mental status examination was used to test cognitive function. Several logistic regression analysis was performed, with correction for several confounding variables (socioeconomic, health behavior, psychological characteristics, and functional status), to evaluate the relationship between frailty and cognitive state. Of the elderly population in Korea, 1451 (14.6%) were frail and 5977 (60.3%) were pre-frail. Compared to the non-frail group (20.3%), cognitive impairment was considerably higher in the pre-frail (33.1%) and frail (39.8%) groups. When compared to the non-frail group, cognitive impairment was substantially linked to a higher risk of frailty after adjustment (pre-frail odds ratio [OR]: 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.47–1.88; frail OR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.68–2.37). When cognitive impairment and frailty subcomponents were present, there was a higher likelihood of severe resistance (OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.70–2.11) and ambulation (OR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.32–1.63) issues. Frailty is associated with cognitive impairment.
Predictive factors for readmission after bariatric surgery: Experience of an obesity center
Authors: Rashdan Mohammad , Al-Sabe Lana , Salameh Mohammad , Halaseh Shahed , Al-Mikhi Bana , Sha’bin Shereen , Alqirem Lina , Alsaadi Tabarak , Ahmad Jood , Sabbagh Aseel , Haddad Faris , Algharrawi Yasser , Alghazawi Laith , Nofal Mohammad N.
Published: August 2024

Avoidable readmissions after bariatric surgery are a major burden on the healthcare systems. Rates of readmission after bariatric surgery have ranged from 1% up to 20%, but the factors that predict readmission have not been well studied. The objective of this study was to determine readmission rates following bariatric surgery and identify factors that contribute to early (within 90 days of surgery) and late readmission. A retrospective cohort study of 736 patients undergoing either Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy or Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in Jordan University Hospital from 2016 to 2019. Demographic characteristics, co-morbidities, and readmissions were extracted from their medical records and analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine which factors predict readmission. A total of 736 patients had bariatric surgery (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy 89% vs Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass 11%) during the study period. Thirty-day readmission rate was 6.62% and an overall readmission rate of 23.23%. Common reasons for early readmission (within 90 days of surgery) were nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Late readmissions were mainly caused by gallbladder stones. Three risk factors were identified that independently predicted readmission: the type of procedure being performed (P-value = .003, odds ratio [OR] 2.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32–3.49), depression (P-value = .028, OR 6.49, 95% CI 1.18–52.9) and preoperative body mass index (P-value = .011, OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.05). Several factors were identified that cause patients to represent and subsequently admitted into hospitals. Early readmission was usually due to nausea, vomiting, and dehydration, whereas late admissions were mostly due to biliary complications. Preoperative body mass index and depression were independent risk factors for readmission.
A visualized and bibliometric analysis of nursing research during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yang Lu , Wang Yao , Mu Xin , Liao Yanbiao
Published: August 2024

Background:

The global spread of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been increasing since December 2019. A total of 8460 publications were obtained from the Web of Science Core Collection from 2019 to 2023, providing insights into the progress of nursing research throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

Bibliometric analysis was conducted on these articles using CiteSpace. The analysis focused on examining the distribution of these publications in terms of space and time, distribution of authors, subject categories, distribution of topics, and cited references.

Results:

These results may be explained from 3 perspectives. Initially, the number of yearly publications on nursing research consistently increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, a co-occurrence analysis of the countries and the authors revealed that certain countries, including the United States, China, and England, have successfully implemented organized and standardized nursing models. These countries also have well-developed and established nursing research systems. Notably, academic communities in specific regions, such as the team led by MD Stefan Gravenstein, Mor Vincent, and White Elizabeth at Brown University in the United States, have emerged as leaders in this field. Furthermore, examining the papers’ subject categories and topic distribution indicate that nursing during the COVID-19 pandemic has been predominantly interdisciplinary, encompassing various disciplines such as clinical medicine, essential medicine, psychology, public health management, and even telematics science.

Conclusion subsectiongs:

Our study provided valuable insights into acquiring knowledge on nursing research during the COVID-19 pandemic, pinpointed possible partners for researchers interested in nursing, and uncovered prevalent research patterns and popular subjects.
Exploring the correlation between gut microbiota and benign gastric tumors: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sun Tao , Liu Jun , An Zhen
Published: August 2024

Recent scientific research has verified a link between malignant tumors in the stomach and the gut microbiota. This research employed Mendelian randomization (MR) techniques to explore the association between gut microbiota and benign gastric malignancies. The data were derived from genome wide association studies-aggregated data consisting of 211 gut microbes and benign gastric lesions and analyzed by MR. Five statistical tools, including inverse variance weighting, weighted median, MR-Egger, simple mode, and weighted mode, were employed in the statistical analysis. The utilization of the leave-one-out approach served as an effective means of detecting data outliers. Furthermore, implementing Mendelian Randomization Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO) and MR-Egger intercepts was employed to mitigate the impact of horizontal pleiotropy. The Cochran Q scores for inverse variance weighting and MR-Egger were utilized to determine the extent of heterogeneity. The findings indicate that the family Porphyromonadaceae (odds ratio [OR] = 2.185, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.239–3.855, P = .007), class Bacilli (OR = 1.556, 95%CI: 1.091 − 2.220, P = .015), family Lactobacillaceae (OR = 1.437, 95%CI: 1.049 − 1.969, P = .024), family Oxalobacteraceae (OR = 1.290, 95%CI: 1.035 − 1.608, P = .023) are positively associated with the occurrence of benign gastric tumors. Conversely, the family Pasteurellaceae (OR = 0.752, 95%CI: 0.566 − 0.999, P = .049) and family Peptococcaceae (OR = 0.622, 95%CI: 0.425 − 0.908, P = .014) exhibit a protective effect and significantly decrease the likelihood of benign gastric tumors. The findings of this study suggest that the probability of developing benign gastric tumors is positively associated with the presence of the family Porphyromonadaceae, class Bacilli, family Lactobacillaceae and family Oxalobacteraceae, In contrast, the presence of the family Pasteurellaceae and family Peptococcaceae is negatively associated with this risk. Therefore, regulating gut microbiota may be a potential strategy to reduce the incidence of benign gastric tumors.
Knowledge graph analysis of research on nurses’ psychological resilience
Authors: Liu Neng , Yi Jindong , Yuan Fulai , Su Pan
Published: August 2024

In recent years, a surge in literature on psychological nurse resilience, largely driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted the need for a comprehensive understanding of the current state and emerging trends through reliable methodologies. The purpose of this study was to analyzes the research on nurses’ psychological resilience through bibliometrics to understand the current situation, foundation, and hotspot of this research field. The Web of Science core collection database was used as the search source, and CiteSpace analysis software was employed to conduct bibliometric analysis on authors, countries, institutions, keywords, and references of nurse psychological resilience-related literature published from the establishment of the database to July 11, 2023. A total of 1060 articles were included in the final analysis. The study of nurses’ psychological resilience had been highly popular and had formed a new and important research basis in recent years. China and the United States led in the number of publications and centrality respectively, with Monash Univ and Curtin Univ as top institutions in the number of publications and centrality respectively. The authors with the highest number of publications and the most frequently cited were Rees and Connor Km respectively. The most frequently cited article was Factors Associated with Mental Health Outcomes Among Health Care Workers Exposed to Coronavirus Disease 2019 published by Lai, JB, etc. Important key keywords included mental health, resilience, stress, health, outbreak, acute respiratory syndrome, etc. The research topics in this field mainly focused on 4 aspects, including nurses’ mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder, job burnout and job satisfaction, and intervention research on psychological resilience. The results of bibliometric analysis provide direct support for future scholars to explore and determine the research direction, hot spots, and find authoritative authors and institutions. At the moment, nurses’ psychological resilience research has established a new foundation, primarily focusing on COVID-19-related topics. Given the potential prolonged coexistence of COVID-19 and other diseases, the main research focus remains innovating and validating effective psychological resilience intervention strategies for nurses’ overall well-being.
Association between iron metabolism markers and triglyceride–glucose index: A cross-sectional study in China Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Li Yanan , Dang Yifan , Zhou Yanhui , Wang Haidong , Zheng Lisheng , Ba Yudong
Published: August 2024

Iron metabolism plays an important role in insulin resistance, and the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index has been proposed in recent years as a more accessible and cost-effective marker for insulin resistance. This study aims to evaluate the association between iron metabolism markers, including ferritin (FER), transferrin (TRF), and transferrin receptor (TFR), and the TyG index. A total of 6524 Chinese individuals aged between 18 and 75 years were included in this study. Multivariable linear models were used to investigate the association between FER, TRF, and TFR levels, and the TyG index. Further subgroup analyses stratified by age and sex were also performed. There was a positive association between FER and TRF levels and the TyG index in all 3 multivariable linear regression models, regardless of stratification by sex and age. Additionally, TFR was positively associated with the TyG index among females and those aged ≥45 years, but not among males and those aged <45 years. Our findings reveal a positive association between FER and TRF levels and the TyG index in a Chinese population, while the association between TFR levels and the TyG index showed different patterns depending on age and gender.
Association between triglyceride-glucose index and depression in patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study from NHANES
Authors: Ren Jiaju , Lv Cheng , Wang Jia
Published: August 2024

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the association between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and the prevalence of depression in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A nationally representative sample of 3225 individuals with type 2 diabetes was enrolled in this study. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between the TyG index and depression, adjusting for potential confounding factors. After adjusting for age, gender, BMI, smoking, alcohol consumption, congestive heart failure, and coronary heart disease, a significant positive association was found between the TyG index and the prevalence of depression in individuals with type 2 diabetes (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.21–1.95). Subgroup analyses showed consistent associations across various demographic and clinical subgroups. This study provides evidence of a significant independent positive association between the TyG index and the prevalence of depression in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Bilateral pontine brachium lesions in one autoantibodies directed against MOG positive patient: A case report
Authors: Sun Fan-Ya , Shen Jia , Ding Le , Zhu Bo , Gu Naibing , Liu Zhiqin , Di Zhengli , Jia Xiao-Tao
Published: August 2024

Rationale:

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-related disease is a relatively recent entity in inflammatory demyelinating disease. Its clinical presentation varies in severity and the lack of specific imaging features makes it easy to misdiagnose. We now report the case of a MOG antibody-positive patient who presented with diplopia and dizziness, and whose brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed abnormal signals in the bilateral pontine brachium.

Patient concerns:

A previously healthy 52-year-old woman presented with diplopia and dizziness, and was hospitalized 4 days after onset.

Diagnoses:

Brain MRI demonstrated abnormal hyperintense signals in the bilateral pontine brachium on T2-weighted fluid attenuated inversion recovery imaging. MRI enhancement showed abnormal enhancement foci in bilateral pontine brachium and pons. Cerebrospinal fluid examination showed Oligoclonal IgG bands were negative. The IgG index was normal, and serum aquaporin-4 antibody was negative, while serum MOG-Ab was positive (1:100). In conjunction with a positive serum MOG antibody and exclusion of other diseases, diagnosis of MOG antibody-related disease was made.

Interventions:

Intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral corticosteroids.

Outcomes:

Symptoms resolved completely. At 4-month follow-up. Follow-up after 4 months showed disappearance of the abnormal signal in the left pontine brachium and diminution of abnormal high signal in the right compared to the previous one, and there was no recurrence 1 year after the onset of the disease.

Lessons:

If brain MRI indicating bilateral, multiple, and diffuse abnormal signals in the pontine brachium, and a discrepancy between the clinical symptoms and the imaging severity, a diagnosis of demyelinating disease should be considered highly probable. In such cases, anti-MOG antibody testing is essential for further defining the etiology. The clinical phenotype and imaging manifestations of MOG antibody-positive brainstem encephalitis may lack sufficient specificity to be readily identifiable. Timely diagnosis and early glucocorticoid therapy are beneficial in improving prognosis and preventing recurrence.
Decreasing Pain in Hospitalized Patients by Increasing Topical Anesthetic Use for Peripheral IVs
Authors: Lewis Emilee C. , Komkov Stephanie , Rickles Jenny , Saccoccio Mary , Thomesen Margaret , Turcotte Lauren , Zempsky William T. , Waynik Ilana
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Venous access is a common source of pain for hospitalized patients. Topical anesthetics are effective at decreasing needle pain, can improve success rate, and decrease procedure time; however, use before peripheral intravenous line (PIV) placement is inconsistent. The aim was to reduce pain experienced by hospitalized pediatric patients by increasing topical anesthetic use for PIV placement from a mean of 11% to 40% within 6 months.

Methods:

The Model for Improvement was utilized. An institutional clinical pathway and PIV order panel were developed. Pre-checked orders for topical anesthetics were added to order sets. Visual aids were placed on IV carts, including reminders for anesthetics, pathway use and scripting examples. Nurses received individual feedback. Statistical process control charts were posted weekly on daily management system boards on medical-surgical floors, and data were shared at daily nursing huddles to increase awareness of performance and discuss opportunities for improvement.

Results:

Topical anesthetic use for PIV placement increased from a mean of 11% to 46%. Documentation of comfort measures during PIV placement increased from a mean of 6% to 13%. The percentage of PIV placements with an order for a topical anesthetic in the electronic health record increased from a mean of 14% to 54%. PIV procedures with documentation of placement attempts increased from a mean of 47% to 70%.

Conclusions:

Through systems and culture change, awareness of the importance of pain prevention for venous access procedures increased, and patient-centered care improved with greater collaboration between nurses, providers, and families for venous access planning.
RS–DFID Africa capacity-building initiative programme grant: harnessing unsteady phase-change heat exchange in high-performance concentrated solar power systems
Authors: Winchester Benedict , Maghrabi Abdullah M. , Markides Christos N.
Published: August 2024

The Royal Society and UK Department for International Development supported a consortium of three universities across sub-Saharan Africa and Imperial College London with the aim of developing new knowledge on direct-steam-generation concentrated solar power (CSP) plants and supporting relevant capacity building across the Universities of Lagos, Mauritius and Pretoria. Key research findings from the programme include an improved flow-classification scheme for two-phase, liquid–liquid flows; testing of advanced surfaces with much-improved steady-state heat transfer performance—the commercial nanoFLUX surface showed up to 200% higher heat-transfer coefficients (HTCs) in pool boiling compared with other surfaces with R-134a/R-245fa; first-of-a-kind measurements of transient flow boiling HTCs, which were up to 30% lower in step perturbations than quasi-steady-state expectations in horizontal pipes with R-245fa; error estimation and corrections for laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) measurements, leading to the development of an adapted planar LIF technique with uncertainty <10% for local, instantaneous film thickness measurements in annular flows, and the application of such diagnostic methods to pool, falling-film and flow boiling in pipes; and predictions of an ~80% increase in the net present value of a case-study CSP plant when integrated with solid storage media.
Development of machine learning-based algorithms for classifying physical activity intensity using wrist and thigh worn wearables
Authors: Koemel Nicholas A. , Biswas Raaj K. , Ahmadi Matthew N. , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

The use of semi-supervised learning approaches can be used to extend a base-level classifier and offers a significant advantage by reducing the need for extensive labeled datasets. We utilized a two-stage semi-supervised learning model to classify physical activity intensity for wrist and thigh worn monitors, by retraining a base classifier with free-living wearable sensor data. Data was collected in two-phases comprising a laboratory and free-living session. Total classified time spent in light intensity, moderate intensity, and vigorous intensity were not significantly different from ground-truth minutes for either placement. The machine learning classifiers re-trained on free-living data accurately predicted light, moderate and vigorous intensity between both device placements. These findings demonstrate that similar estimates of physical activity intensity can be correctly classified for wrist and thigh placements when using semi-supervised techniques.
Analysis of oogenesis defects inDyromutant ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Shima Takamoto , Kawabata Yuuki , Yagi Yoshimasa
Published: August 2024

Dyromutant is female sterile, and oogenesis is aborted during stage8-9 of oogenesis. We investigated detail of the oogenesis defect ofDyromutant. At first, we confirmed loss of Dyro caused female sterility by genetic rescue experiment. Then, we performed genetic mosaic analysis and found Dyro expression in germ cell is important for oogenesis. InDyromutant, inhibition of programmed cell death suppressed cell death of germ cells during oogenesis but failed to rescue fertility. It indicates that abortion of oogenesis is not because of mis-regulation of cell death signal but there is oogenesis defect which activates Caspase signaling pathway. Then, we observedDyromutant and looking for defects which may trigger cell death of germ cells inDyromutant. We found oogenesis abortion timing is similar to yolk protein mutant but different from amino acid starvation. It suggests that nutrient signal defect does not triggers cell death inDyromutant. We carefully observed the defect ofDyromutant ovaries and found abnormal morphology of nucleolus and chromosome in nurse cells. It seems chromosome inDyromutant is thick and nucleolus is limited in small space between thick chromosomes inDyromutant nurse cells. Other defect we found is aggregated protein accumulation in germ cells. These data suggest thatDyrohas important role in mid-oogenesis stage germ cell and loss of Dyro causes defect in nuclear of nurse cells which may leads to abortion of oogenesis.
Beyond the Prescription Pad: “Unveiling Outpatient Antimicrobial Patterns”
Authors: kumar D. Suresh , Ratheesh R. , Poojadharshini M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMS) is recognized as one of the major threats of human health all around the world especially in low-and-middle income countries. Misuse or overuse of antimicrobials are considered as the major cause for developing AMS.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted in outpatient’s department in a tertiary care hospital after obtaining prior ethics committee approval. The study was conducted during the month of April 2023.

RESULTS

The study analysed 301 outpatient prescriptions over a period of 1 month. Of these prescriptions, Gender distribution was balanced, with 153 males (50.8%) and 148 females (49.2%). On average, the prescribed duration of antimicrobial therapy for all patients was found to be 6 days.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the urgency of addressing the issue of antibiotic overuse and misuse in outpatient care. By implementing evidence-based strategies and targeted educational initiatives, we can take significant strides towards preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations and ultimately improving patient outcomes. It is imperative that healthcare providers, administrators, and policymakers collaborate in promoting responsible antimicrobial prescribing practices to safeguard public health and combat the global threat of antibiotic resistance.
Circulating pancreatic enzyme levels are a causal biomarker of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Elgamal Ruth M , Melton Rebecca L. , Chiou Joshua , McGrail Carolyn W , Gaulton Kyle J
Published: August 2024

Novel biomarkers of type 1 diabetes (T1D) are needed for earlier detection of disease and identifying therapeutic targets. We identified biomarkers of T1D by combining plasmacisandtransprotein QTLs (pQTLs) for 2,922 proteins in the UK Biobank with a T1D genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 157k samples. T1D risk variants at over 20% of known loci colocalized withcisortranspQTLs, and distinct sets of T1D loci colocalized with immune, pancreatic secretion, or gut-related proteins. We identified 23 proteins with evidence for a causal role in using pQTLs as genetic instruments in Mendelian Randomization which included multiple sensitivity analyses. Proteins increasing T1D risk were involved in immune processes (e.g.HLA-DRA) and, more surprisingly, T1D protective proteins were enriched in pancreatic secretions (e.g.CPA1), cholesterol metabolism (e.g.APOA1), and gut homeostasis. Genetic variants associated with plasma levels of T1D-protective pancreatic enzymes such as CPA1 were enriched incis-regulatory elements in pancreatic exocrine and gut enteroendocrine cells, and the protective effects of CPA1 and other enzymes on T1D were consistent when using instruments specific to acinar cells. Finally, pancreatic enzymes had decreased acinar expression in T1D, including CPA1 which was altered prior to onset. Together, these results reveal causal biomarkers and highlight processes in the exocrine pancreas, immune system, and gut that modulate T1D risk.
Tunable Cytosolic Chloride Indicators for Real-Time Chloride Imaging in Live Cells
Authors: Morse Jared , Nadiveedhi Maheshwara Reddy , Schmidt Matthias , Tang Fung-Kit , Hladun Colby , Ganesh Prasanna , Qiu Zhaozhu , Leung Kaho
Published: August 2024

Chloride plays a crucial role in various cellular functions, and its level is regulated by a variety of chloride transporters and channels. However, to date, we still lack the capability to image instantaneous ion flux through chloride channels at single-cell level. Here, we developed a series of cell-permeable, pH-independent, chloride-sensitive fluorophores for real-time cytosolic chloride imaging, which we call CytoCl dyes. We demonstrated the ability of CytoCl dyes to monitor cytosolic chloride and used it to uncover the rapid changes and transient events of halide flux, which cannot be captured by steady-state imaging. Finally, we successfully imaged the proton-activated chloride channel-mediated ion flux at single-cell level, which is, to our knowledge, the first real-time imaging of ion flux through a chloride channel in unmodified cells. By enabling the imaging of single-cell level ion influx through chloride channels and transporters, CytoCl dyes can expand our understanding of ion flux dynamics, which is critical for characterization and modulator screening of these membrane proteins. A conjugable version of CytoCl dyes was also developed for its customization across different applications.