Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of a Chinese self-intermittent catheterization quality of life scale among patients with neurogenic bladder
Background Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) is widely considered the gold standard for treating patients with neurogenic bladder (NB). Healthcare professionals and catheter users must optimize ISC care to improve patients’ quality of life. To achieve this, the Intermittent Self-Catheterization Questionnaire (ISC-Q) is a valuable tool with clear and easy-to-understand items. However, this scale has yet to be adapted for use in China, and its reliability and validity need to be tested through cross-cultural adaptation. Objectives The objective of this study was to culturally adapt the ISC-Q and develop the Chinese version of the ISC-Q (C-ISC-Q), and assess its reliability and validity among patients with NB. Methods With the authorization of the ISC-Q author, the Beaton mode was used to adapt the scale cross-culturally. The study was conducted from June 2020 to June 2021 in three phases: committee-based translation from English to Chinese, Delphi expert consultations (n = 5) for cultural adaptation, and a cross-sectional study (n = 149) for validation. Results The C-ISC-Q has 24 items and four dimensions. The critical ratio of each item is over 3.0, and the correlation coefficient between each item and the scale’s total score is above 0.4. The Cronbach’s α value for the scale is 0.930, and for each dimension, it is between 0.870–0.92. The retest reliability for the scale is 0.894, and for each dimension is between 0.751–0.889. The content validity at the item level ranges from 0.8~1.0, and at the scale level is 0.9. The criterion-related validity of the scale was −0.708, and the correlation for each dimension was 0.329–0.624. The principal component analysis identified four common factors, with a cumulative contribution rate of 67.846%. Conclusions The C-ISC-Q is culturally sensitive, reliable, and valid to measure the quality of life for patients with NB. It can assist nurses and researchers in tailoring strategies to enhance the quality of life for patients with NB.
Tang et al. (2024) Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric validation of a Chinese self-intermittent catheterization quality of life scale among patients with neurogenic bladder. PeerJ 12:e18319 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18319
Association analysis of MTHFR (rs1801133 and rs1801131) gene polymorphism towards the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Dali area population from Yunnan Province, China
Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common complex metabolic disorder that exhibits a strong genetic predisposition. 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) regulates folate metabolism, which has been proposed to be associated with T2DM, although the relationship is inconsistent among different geographical areas. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MTHFR C677T (rs1801133) and A1298C (rs1801131) loci polymorphisms on T2DM susceptibility in the population of the Dali area in Yunnan Province, China. Methods This case-control study included 445 patients with T2DM and 272 healthy control individuals from the Dali area of Yunnan Province. Genotyping of the MTHFR gene polymorphisms was performed using the competitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) method. The effects of genetic variations of the MTHFR gene on T2DM risk were evaluated using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results The results of the present study revealed that the TT genotype (OR = 1.750, P = 0.030) and the T allele (OR = 1.252, P = 0.047) at the MTHFR C677T locus were considerably associated with the increased odds of developing T2DM. In addition, the CC genotype (OR = 3.132, P = 0.032) at the MTHFR A1298C locus also substantially increased the odds of developing T2DM. The T-A haplotype (OR = 1.305, P = 0.030) of MTHFR C677T and A1298C exhibited the increased odds of developing T2DM. Biochemical index analyses showed that patients with T2DM who carried the CT or TT genotype of MTHFR C677T expressed substantially higher levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), homocysteine (Hcy), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) than those of the CC genotype. Moreover, the FBG and Hcy levels were considerably higher in patients with T2DM who carried the CC or AC genotype of MTHFR A1298C than those of the AA genotype. No obvious association was observed between these MTHFR polymorphisms and cardiovascular risk in T2DM. Conclusion Our study suggests that the genetic variations of MTHFR C677T and A1298C are significantly associated with T2DM susceptibility in the population of the Dali area of Yunnan Province, China.
Liu et al. (2024) Association analysis of MTHFR (rs1801133 and rs1801131) gene polymorphism towards the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Dali area population from Yunnan Province, China. PeerJ 12:e18334 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18334
Remote care instruction via the WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective analysis
Background The purpose of this study was to estimate the effect of remote nursing guidance based on WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation during the COVID-19 epidemic. Methods Retrospective analysis of clinical data, including demographic data and anticoagulation complications, of 126 female patients who received subcutaneous anticoagulation therapy and received remote nursing guidance using WeChat platform in our hospital from January 2022 to December 2022. The Anti-Clot Treatment Scale (ACTS) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) scale were used to evaluate patients’ satisfaction with anticoagulation and quality of life at the beginning of anticoagulation, half a month after anticoagulation, and after three months of anticoagulation. Results In total, 126 patients were involved in this study, all of them were female, 115 cases were natural pregnancy, 11 cases were assisted reproduction. This study included seven cases of lower extremity deep vein thrombosis, 100 cases of hypercoagulable state, 10 cases of antiphospholipid syndrome, and eight cases of protein S deficiency, one case of hyperhomocysteinemia. During the follow-up period, four patients (3.17%) had subcutaneous injection complications, including three cases of subcutaneous hemorrhage and one case of liquid leakage. A total of 123 patients had completed the planned anticoagulation therapy or were receiving anticoagulation therapy as planned, and three patients did not receive anticoagulation therapy as planned (zero cases lost contact, two cases changed treatment units, and one case refused treatment). ACTS score (55.03 ± 1.73) and WHOQOL-BREF score (62.18 ± 3.17) after three months of anticoagulation, ACTS score (54.18 ± 1.20) and WHOQOL-BREF score (60.37 ± 2.25) after half a month of anticoagulation was significantly higher than the ACTS score (47.81 ± 1.69) and WHOQOL-BREF score (55.25 ± 1.85) at the beginning of anticoagulation, and the difference was statistically significant (P value < 0.01). Conclusions During the COVID-19 pandemic, remote nursing instruction via the WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation can increase anticoagulation compliance, satisfaction, and quality of life.
Jiang et al. (2024) Remote care instruction via the WeChat platform for female patients receiving subcutaneous anticoagulation during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective analysis. PeerJ 12:e18337 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18337
A retrospective analysis of a newly proposed imaging-etiologic classification for acute ischemic stroke with large vascular occlusion based on MRI and pathogenesis
Background Endovascular treatment (EVT) has emerged as the preferred initial therapeutic option for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with large vascular occlusion (LVO). To facilitate more targeted EVT interventions, we propose a novel imaging-etiologic classification system derived from a comprehensive analysis of preoperative MRI and pathogenesis in AIS patients. Methods From June 2020 to December 2021, a retrospective analysis was conducted on 184 consecutive AIS patients who underwent preoperative MRI and subsequent EVT at the Henan Provincial Cerebrovascular Hospital Stroke Center. Patients’ medical histories were comprehensively reviewed. According to MRI, anterior circulation infarction (ACI) and posterior circulation infarction (PCI) were divided into four groups respectively (A-D & a-d). Three types (1–3) of etiology were identified based on pathogenesis. The types were respectively evaluated by screening test with intra-operative finding of EVT. Results Our imaging-etiologic classification achieved an overall positive rate of 90.2% (166/184) when compared to the gold standard. The screening test for each type demonstrated excellent validity (Youden’s index ≥ 0.75) and reliability (Kappa ≥ 0.80). Conclusion The imaging-etiologic classification represents a simple yet comprehensive approach that can be readily applied in the management of AIS with LVO. It can rapidly and effectively locate the vascular occlusion, and reveal the pathogenesis.
Li et al. (2024) A retrospective analysis of a newly proposed imaging-etiologic classification for acute ischemic stroke with large vascular occlusion based on MRI and pathogenesis. PeerJ 12:e18342 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18342
Emerging roles of tRNA-derived small RNAs in injuries
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are a novel class of small noncoding RNAs, precisely cleaved from tRNA, functioning as regulatory molecules. The topic of tsRNAs in injuries has not been extensively discussed, and studies on tsRNAs are entering a new era. Here, we provide a fresh perspective on this topic. We systematically reviewed the classification, generation, and biological functions of tsRNAs in response to stress, as well as their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in various injuries, including lung injury, liver injury, renal injury, cardiac injury, neuronal injury, vascular injury, skeletal muscle injury, and skin injury. We also provided a fresh perspective on the association between stress-induced tsRNAs and organ injury from a clinical perspective.
Wang et al. (2024) Emerging roles of tRNA-derived small RNAs in injuries. PeerJ 12:e18348 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18348
A study on elite athletes: Orthorexia nervosa tendency is a risk factor for sleep quality
Background Elite athletes adhere to strict daily routines, particularly concerning their nutritional habits. However, these practices can occasionally lead to a pathological fixation on healthy eating known as orthorexia nervosa which may adversely affect sleep quality. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between orthorexia nervosa tendencies and sleep quality in elite athletes, as well as to investigate potential differences in orthorexia nervosa tendencies and sleep patterns between athletes engaged in individual versus team sports. Methods The present study explores how orthorexia nervosa tendency affects sleep quality in 249 elite athletes (115 women: aged 19.92 ± 2.48 years, sporting tenure: 8.16 ± 3.96 years, and 134 men: aged 20.69 ± 2.72 years, sporting tenure: 7.85 ± 3.59 years). The orthorexia nervosa tendency was evaluated using the ORTO-11 scale, while their sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results The results of the present study indicate that orthorexia nervosa negatively affected sleep quality (rho = −0.173, p = 0.006). Additionally, no differences in the orthorexia nervosa tendency was observed between individual and group athletes (p = 0.287); however, individual athletes presented poorer sleep quality (p = 0.287). Conclusion These results indicate that the elite athletes who present higher orthorexia nervosa tendency had a higher risk of having poorer sleep quality.
Çağın et al. (2024) A study on elite athletes: Orthorexia nervosa tendency is a risk factor for sleep quality. PeerJ 12:e18349 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18349
Ceciamaralia, a new genus of Dorvilleidae (Annelida) from deep waters of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean and an insight into its relationship within the family
Dorvilleidae Chamberlin, 1919 is a family of Annelida containing some of the smallest ‘polychaetes’ species, being poorly studied worldwide, and with little knowledge regarding its diversity and occurrence. Samples obtained in oceanographic campaigns performed in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean (Brazilian coast) revealed a high number of specimens of dorvilleids, adding to our knowledge of the family’s biodiversity. A detailed morphological analysis of these organisms has revealed a new genus, Ceciamaralia gen. nov., with two new species. The new genus differs from other Dorvilleidae genera in (i) the robust and enlarged pharynx which are frequently everted, (ii) unique composition of maxillae, with an elongated pair of serrated basal plates and one pair of anterior free maxillary plates with a long and thin anterior spine and (iii) ventral cirri present only in few first chaetigers. Ceciamaralia lanai gen. et sp. nov. is characterized by the presence of a broad and large dorsal cirrus on a few anterior parapodia and by furcate chaeta in supra-acicular fascicles. While Ceciamaralia nonatoi gen. et sp. nov. presents one geniculate chaeta instead of one furcate, the absence of dorsal cirri and, in some specimens, the absence of palps. A cladistic analysis supported the monophyly of Ceciamaralia gen. nov. by four synapomorphies related to the unique morphology of its maxillae, pharynx and appendages. This study is part of several recent taxonomic studies aiming to elucidate and increase the knowledge of Dorvilleidae, since it is part of a Ph.D project focused on the family.
Bonaldo et al. (2024) Ceciamaralia, a new genus of Dorvilleidae (Annelida) from deep waters of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean and an insight into its relationship within the family. PeerJ 12:e18358 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18358
Current status of the remaining Mexican cloud forests: landscape findings and conservation initiatives
Tropical montane cloud forests are known for their unique biodiversity and their critical role in sustaining ecosystem services; however, approximately 50% of their original cover in Mexico was estimated to have been lost by 1998. The Mexican ecoregion that supports these ecosystems experienced one of the highest rates of deforestation between 2001 and 2021. Thus, a more recent evaluation of Mexico’s cloud forests is required. There is limited data on the landscape structure of cloud forests in Mexico, despite the possible application of landscape factors in conservation planning. Here, we estimated the average total area, number of patches, effective mesh size, total edge, and the shape of mixed forests that was present in 2020 within polygons of cloud forests defined in 1999 by Mexico’s National Commission for the Use and Knowledge of Biodiversity (CONABIO for its acronym in Spanish). We estimated land cover using data from the North American Land Change Monitoring System, which classifies cloud forests as mixed forests. We found that eight out of the 109 polygons have no mixed forests and that an average of 49% of the 1,768,914 ha of cloud forests polygons are now covered by mixed forests distributed across 13 states. Additionally, within the remaining 101 polygons that do contain this type of vegetation, mixed forest is distributed on average across 140 patches (range = 1–1,473); 80% of these forests have very low effective mesh size values; 90% of them have low total edge values (<2,000 km); and their shapes tend to be uniformly distributed. Furthermore, most of cloud forest polygons are located outside of federal protected areas. Overall, our results suggest that the remaining Mexican cloud forests are extremely vulnerable and fragmented and that their extent has steadily declined since 1999. To ensure the survival of Mexican cloud forests, it will be crucial to prioritize high-diversity areas, strengthen protection in critical zones, establish ecological corridors, encourage sustainable practices, and actively engage local communities. This study highlights the complex issues and inherent heterogeneity that characterize cloud forest ecosystems in Mexico and provides crucial insights for conservation.
Dáttilo et al. (2024) Current status of the remaining Mexican cloud forests: landscape findings and conservation initiatives. PeerJ 12:e18386 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18386
Silver nanoparticles can be sampled by ultrafiltration probe but elution into & recovery from plasma and Dulbecco’s Phosphate Buffered Saline differs in vitro
Locally sustained release antimicrobials such as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) might prove useful in combating local infections. Their elution has been investigated in Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS) including from poloxamer 407 (P407). No information exists on possible interactions with proteins, nor have ultrafiltration (UF) probes been evaluated to measure Ag. These investigations would provide helpful data prior to investigating the sustained release after subcutaneous implantation in vivo over time. We compared (1) the influence of elution fluid on AgNP elution, and (2) UF probe and direct sampling in vitro. Six AgNP-P407 specimens in a dialysis tube were placed in Dulbecco’s PPBS (DPBS) (n = 3) or canine plasma (n = 3) for 96 h on a stirred hot plate (37 °C and 600 rpm) and sampled 20 times. A 0.001 mg/mL AgNP solution was prepared in DPBS or plasma. Six pipette and UF probe samples were taken of each. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to analyze Ag. Stock plasma contained Ag. At 96 h, 5/6 dialysis tubes had not fully released AgNP. One peak in hourly Ag increase was present in DPBS (10–13 h), and two peaks in plasma (6–8 and 10–13 h). The hourly Ag increase in plasma decreased earlier than in DPBS. Ultrafiltration probe sampling was possible in both DPBS and plasma and resulted in higher Ag concentrations but with more variation. While in vitro use of DPBS might be more cost effective, plasma should be considered due to difference in elution and recovery. Ultrafiltration probes can be used to sample Ag, but results will have a greater degree of variation, and multiple samples and increased time points should be considered.
Risselada et al. (2024) Silver nanoparticles can be sampled by ultrafiltration probe but elution into & recovery from plasma and Dulbecco’s Phosphate Buffered Saline differs in vitro. PeerJ 12:e18388 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18388
Effects of progessive vs. constant protocol whole-body vibration on muscle activation, pain, disability and functional performance in non-specific chronic low back pain patients: a randomized clinical trial
Background and Objective Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is a prevalent condition causing significant disability and functional impairment. Whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) has emerged as a new treatment method, but additional research is necessary to determine the optimal parameters of WBVE that would be beneficial for patients experiencing chronic low back pain (CLBP). This study aims to investigate the effects of two type of WBVE (constant vs progressive) on pain, disability, functional performance, and muscle activity in patients with NSCLBP. Methods Thirty-two individuals diagnosed with chronic low back pain (CLBP) without any specific causes were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of two intervention groups: a constant/fixed protocol WBVE group or a progressive protocol WBVE group. Participants underwent WBVE sessions for around 30 min, thrice weekly over a period of 8 weeks. Primary outcomes assessed included pain intensity, functional disability, functional performance, and electromyographic activity of core musculature, measured at baseline and upon completion of the intervention period. Temporal changes of each outcome variable across different periods and between groups were measured with repeated measures 2×2 mixed ANOVA. Further, the paired t-test was performed to compare pre- and post-treatment values within each group. Results Significant improvements were observed in both the constant and progressive WBVE protocol groups. Pain intensity decreased by 64.2% (p < 0.001) in the constant group and by 61.1% (p < 0.001) in the progressive group. Functional disability decreased by 48.1% (p < 0.001) in the constant group and by 53.3% (p < 0.001) in the progressive group. Functional performance improved by 16.5% (p < 0.001) in the constant group and by 16.9% (p < 0.001) in the progressive group. Electromyography (EMG) demonstrated significant improvements across all measured variables except % maximum voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC) of external obliques (EO) in both intervention groups with time (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the magnitude of improvement between the constant and progressive WBVE protocols (p > 0.05), indicating both modalities’ effectiveness in ameliorating CLBP symptoms and associated functional impairments. Conclusion The study demonstrates that both progressive and constant WBVE protocols are equally effective in reducing pain and disability in NSCLBP patients. These findings support the inclusion of progressive WBVE in clinical practice, offering a flexible treatment option that can be tailored to individual patient needs, ensuring both tolerability and effectiveness. This contributes valuable evidence towards optimizing WBVE protocols for managing NSCLBP.
Zafar et al. (2024) Effects of progessive vs. constant protocol whole-body vibration on muscle activation, pain, disability and functional performance in non-specific chronic low back pain patients: a randomized clinical trial. PeerJ 12:e18390 https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.18390