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Journal of Substance Use and Addiction... Jun 2024Although Black Americans tend to consume less alcohol than non-Hispanic/Latine White Americans, Black Americans who do drink alcohol appear at especially high risk for...
INTRODUCTION
Although Black Americans tend to consume less alcohol than non-Hispanic/Latine White Americans, Black Americans who do drink alcohol appear at especially high risk for negative alcohol-related problems. This alcohol-based health disparity indicates a need to identify psycho-sociocultural factors that may play a role in drinking and related problems to inform prevention and treatment efforts. Minority stress-based models posit that stressors such as racism increase negative emotions, which may be associated with using substances such as alcohol to cope with negative emotions. Yet, little research has directly assessed emotional reactions to racism and whether it plays a role in drinking-related behaviors.
METHOD
Participants were 164 Black American undergraduates at a racially/ethnically diverse university who endorsed current alcohol use 18-48 (M = 21.7, SD = 4.3). Participants completed an online survey regarding their experiences with racism and alcohol-related behaviors.
RESULTS
Experiencing more frequent racism was related to greater negative emotions experienced in response to racism (i.e., negative emotional reactivity to racism) and alcohol-related problems. More frequent racism was related to more alcohol-related problems via the sequential effects of negative emotional reactivity to racism and coping motivated drinking.
CONCLUSIONS
These data indicate that the experience of negative emotions that occur after experiencing racism and attempts to cope with those negative emotions by consuming alcohol play important roles in drinking behaviors among Black Americans.
PubMed: 38955251
DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209448 -
Microbial Pathogenesis Jun 2024The bacterium Escherichia coli is one of the main causes of urinary tract infections. The formation of bacterial biofilms, especially associated with the use of urinary...
The bacterium Escherichia coli is one of the main causes of urinary tract infections. The formation of bacterial biofilms, especially associated with the use of urinary catheters, contributes to the establishment of recurrent infections and the development of resistance to treatment. Strains of E. coli that produce extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) have a greater ability to form biofilms. In addition, there is a lack of drugs available in the market with antibiofilm activity. Promethazine (PMZ) is an antihistamine known to have antimicrobial activity against different pathogens, including in the form of biofilms, but there are still few studies of its activity against ESBL E. coli biofilms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of PMZ against ESBL E. coli biofilms, as well as to assess the application of this drug as a biofilm prevention agent in urinary catheters. To this end, the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of PMZ in ESBL E. coli strains were determined using the broth microdilution assay and tolerance level measurement. The activity of PMZ against the cell viability of the in vitro biofilm formation of ESBL E. coli was analyzed by the MTT colorimetric assay and its ability to prevent biofilm formation when impregnated in a urinary catheter was investigated by counting colony-forming units (CFU) and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). PMZ showed bactericidal activity and significantly reduced (p<0.05) the viability of the biofilm being formed by ESBL E. coli at concentrations of 256 and 512 μg/ml, as well as preventing the formation of biofilm on urinary catheters at concentrations starting at 512 μg/ml by reducing the number of CFUs, as also observed by SEM. Thus, PMZ is a promising candidate to prevent the formation of ESBL E. coli biofilms on abiotic surfaces.
PubMed: 38955237
DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106769 -
Arquivos de Neuro-psiquiatria Jul 2024Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder with a wide clinical, cognitive, and behavioral expressivity.
BACKGROUND
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder with a wide clinical, cognitive, and behavioral expressivity.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the neuropsychological profile of individuals clinically diagnosed with TSC and the factors that could significantly impact their cognitive development.
METHODS
A total of 62 individuals with ages ranging from 3 to 38 years were followed up in a tertiary attention hospital in Southern Brazil, and they were assessed using a standard battery and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, when intellectual disability was observed.
RESULTS
History of epilepsy was found in 56 participants (90.3%), and 31 (50%) presented an intellectual disability. Among the other half of TSC individuals without intellectual disability, 8 (12.9%) presented borderline classification, 20 (32.2%) presented average scores, and 3 (4.8%) were above average. In total, 17 participants (27.4%) fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder. The results of the multiple linear regression analysis suggested that seizures, age at diagnosis, visual perception, and general attention significantly impact cognitive performance indexes.
CONCLUSION
The present study suggests that the occurrence of epileptic seizures and older age at diagnosis contribute to higher impairment in the domains of cognitive development, underlining the importance of early diagnosis and the prevention of epileptic seizures or their rapid control. The development of attentional skills, visual perception, and executive functions must be followed up.
Topics: Humans; Tuberous Sclerosis; Male; Female; Child; Neuropsychological Tests; Adolescent; Adult; Young Adult; Brazil; Child, Preschool; Intellectual Disability; Cognition; Epilepsy; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Cohort Studies; Cognition Disorders
PubMed: 38955213
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787797 -
Journal of Occupational Health Jul 2024Although studies have shown that Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are common and continue to be a main source of disability and work time loss, there are...
OBJECTIVE
Although studies have shown that Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are common and continue to be a main source of disability and work time loss, there are few reports on elbow WMSDs. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and associated factors of elbow WMSDs.
METHODS
The valid questionnaires of 57501 workers from 15 different industries nationwide were collected and the Chi-square test and logistic-regression-analysis were applied to reveal the prevalence and risk factors of elbow.
RESULTS
The findings indicated that prevalence of elbow WMSDs among workers was 7.3%. The prevalence of elbow WMSDs in toy manufacturing was 21.3%, which significantly higher than that in other industries (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that aged 40 and above, married, very poor health, left-handed, lifting weights (more than 20 kg each time) , work requiring upper limb or hand force, work in an uncomfortable position, repetitive operations within one minute, using vibrating tools, work involves cold, cool winds or temperature changes, work being completed in the same workshop, work being done outdoors, frequent deal with customers , two shifts, often work overtime, staff shortage, often work for colleagues were the risk factors of elbow WMSDs.The higer education level and monthly income, and enough rest time were the protective factors of elbow WMSDs.
CONCLUSION
The toy manufacturing is a high-risk industry for elbow WMSDs. The publicity and education of ergonomics knowledge should be strengthened, and the workers' ergonomics awareness should be improved to reduce the impact of WMSDs.
PubMed: 38955204
DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiae031 -
The American Journal of Tropical... Jul 2024Given India's goal of eliminating malaria by 2030, this study aimed to investigate community perspectives on malaria in highly endemic areas of Odisha, a region...
Given India's goal of eliminating malaria by 2030, this study aimed to investigate community perspectives on malaria in highly endemic areas of Odisha, a region historically prone to malaria. The research explores self-reported malaria events, community knowledge, attitudes, practices, health-seeking behaviors, and access to healthcare services. A community-based cross-sectional survey conducted among 387 households between November 2022 and May 2023 served as an extension of our recent project, monitoring malaria elimination efforts in remote and challenging-to-reach communities in Odisha. The participants, who had a mean (SD) age of 41.7 (13.17) years, were predominantly male (88.4%). Self-reported malaria in the last 12 months prior to the survey was 6.2%, with half of the patients opting for primary health centers for treatment, averaging a 5-day recovery per episode. The median cost per malaria treatment episode was U.S. dollars 20.17. A significant majority (79.8%) demonstrated a strong awareness of malaria symptoms and transmission, with 83.3% expressing a favorable attitude toward disease prevention. Notably, 65.1% reported consistent use of long-lasting insecticidal nets. However, nearly half of the participants reported inadequate larval source management and indoor residual spraying services. Although there were slight variations in knowledge, attitude, and practice scores among demographic groups, the overall understanding of and approach to malaria were consistent in the study population, with no statistically significant differences (P >0.05). The study findings offer hope, suggesting that with sustained dedication and focused surveillance, malaria could become a thing of the past.
PubMed: 38955199
DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0830 -
The American Journal of Tropical... Jul 2024Diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death worldwide in children under 5 years old, after pneumonia. Fortunately, diarrhea is a preventable disease that can...
Diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death worldwide in children under 5 years old, after pneumonia. Fortunately, diarrhea is a preventable disease that can be avoided by implementing basic home management strategies. Mothers are essential to its management and prevention; therefore, this study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers in Pakistan related to diarrheal disease prevention and management. The study was conducted using a cross-sectional design in three cities of Pakistan from September 2022 to December 2022. A questionnaire was used to collect data on mothers' sociodemographic characteristics and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases. A total of 356 mothers (81.7% of them were housewives, and 58.4% were 25-34 years old) participated in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and tests of association. Significant associations were found between mothers' income, education, and ethnicity and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases (P <0.05). However, no significant association was found between the other variables. The knowledge and attitudes of the mothers regarding the prevention and management of diarrhea were satisfactory; however, their prevention-related practices and home-based management were unsatisfactory. Therefore, community education, formation of health and hygiene committees, and dissemination of user-friendly information are crucial for creating awareness about the prevention and management of diarrheal diseases. These measures can help improve the practices of mothers and reduce the incidence of diarrheal diseases in Pakistan.
PubMed: 38955190
DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0655 -
Cell Stem Cell Jun 2024Mitochondria are key regulators of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) homeostasis. Our research identifies the transcription factor Nynrin as a crucial regulator of HSC...
Mitochondria are key regulators of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) homeostasis. Our research identifies the transcription factor Nynrin as a crucial regulator of HSC maintenance by modulating mitochondrial function. Nynrin is highly expressed in HSCs under both steady-state and stress conditions. The knockout Nynrin diminishes HSC frequency, dormancy, and self-renewal, with increased mitochondrial dysfunction indicated by abnormal mPTP opening, mitochondrial swelling, and elevated ROS levels. These changes reduce HSC radiation tolerance and promote necrosis-like phenotypes. By contrast, Nynrin overexpression in HSCs diminishes irradiation (IR)-induced lethality. The deletion of Nynrin activates Ppif, leading to overexpression of cyclophilin D (CypD) and further mitochondrial dysfunction. Strategies such as Ppif haploinsufficiency or pharmacological inhibition of CypD significantly mitigate these effects, restoring HSC function in Nynrin-deficient mice. This study identifies Nynrin as a critical regulator of mitochondrial function in HSCs, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for preserving stem cell viability during cancer treatment.
PubMed: 38955185
DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.06.007 -
Caries Research Jul 2024The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of nitrate and nitrite on the pH-lowering activity of human plaque, the nitrite-producing and -degrading...
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of nitrate and nitrite on the pH-lowering activity of human plaque, the nitrite-producing and -degrading activities of human plaque, and their correlation.
METHODS
Nitrate and nitrite were added to human plaque suspensions collected from the buccal aspect of maxillary molars of patients visiting a general dental clinic, and changes in pH were measured with and without glucose addition. Nitrite-producing and -degrading activities were evaluated by adding nitrate and nitrite to the plaque suspension and measuring the increase and decrease in nitrite with Griess reagent, respectively.
RESULTS
The addition of nitrate inhibited both endogenous and glucose-induced plaque pH lowering. The addition of glucose enhanced the production of nitrite from nitrate by about 3.3-fold. The addition of nitrite also inhibited endogenous plaque pH-lowering, but the addition of glucose promoted nitrite degradation by only about 1.1-fold. Nitrite-producing activity was positively correlated with age, but not with nitrite-degrading activity.
CONCLUSION
This study revealed that nitrite was produced from nitrate and inhibited the pH-lowering activity of human plaque, which may contribute to caries control. Both nitrite-producing and -degrading activities occurred in human plaque, but no correlation was found between them. Furthermore, nitrite production was enhanced by glucose metabolism, which may function as a self-regulatory mechanism (resilience) to prevent excessive acidification by glucose metabolism.
PubMed: 38955172
DOI: 10.1159/000540017 -
Journal of Critical Care Jul 2024Cardiac surgery, post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS), and temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) provoke substantial inflammation. We therefore...
The effect of high-dose selenium on mortality and postoperative organ dysfunction in post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock patients supported with mechanical circulatory support - A post-hoc analysis of the SUSTAIN CSX trial.
PURPOSE
Cardiac surgery, post-cardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCCS), and temporary mechanical circulatory support (tMCS) provoke substantial inflammation. We therefore investigated whether a selenium-based, anti-inflammatory strategy would benefit PCCS patients treated with tMCS in a post-hoc analysis of the sustain CSX trial.
METHODS
Post-hoc analysis of patients receiving tMCS for PCCS in the Sustain CSX trial, which investigated the effects of high-dose selenium on postoperative organ dysfunction in cardiac surgery patients.
PRIMARY OUTCOME
duration of tMCS therapy.
SECONDARY OUTCOMES
postoperative organ dysfunction and 30-day mortality.
RESULTS
Thirty-nine patients were treated with tMCS for PCCS. There was no difference in the median duration of tMCS between the selenium and the placebo group (3 days [IQR: 1-6] vs. 2 days [IQR: 1-7], p = 0.52). Median dialysis duration was longer in the selenium group (1.5 days [0-21.8] vs. 0 days [0-1.8], p = 0.048). There was no difference in 30-day mortality (53% vs. 41%, OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.32-6.47, p = 0.62).
CONCLUSION
In this explorative study, a perioperative high-dose selenium-supplementation did not show beneficial effects on organ dysfunctions and mortality rates in patients with PCCS receiving tMCS.
PubMed: 38955117
DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrc.2024.154853 -
Comprehensive Psychiatry Jun 2024Problematic online behaviours are a concern among university students. Although previous research has identified that psychological distress, cognitive distortions,...
Similarities and differences in the psychological factors associated with generalised problematic internet use, problematic social media use, and problematic online gaming.
Problematic online behaviours are a concern among university students. Although previous research has identified that psychological distress, cognitive distortions, conscientiousness and neuroticism traits, motor impulsivity, and emotion regulation strategies have a significant direct effect on generalised problematic Internet use (GPIU), problematic social media use (PSMU), and problematic online gaming (POG), it is still necessary to determine the extent to which these psychological factors, taken together, are associated with each of the problematic online behaviours. In a sample of 690 Spanish university students, the present study examined the relationship of these psychological factors with GPIU, PSMU, and POG. Correlation and regression analyses were performed. Results reported that (1) high psychological distress, low conscientiousness trait and high motor impulsivity were common associated factors of GPIU and PSMU, but not of POG; (2) high levels of cognitive distortions and cognitive reappraisal were common associated factors of GPIU, PSMU and POG; and (3) expressive suppression and neuroticism trait had no effect on any of the three problematic online behaviours. The findings will help to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies for each problematic online behaviour in the university context.
PubMed: 38955108
DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2024.152512