bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole-genome analysis and evolutionary characterization of cervical and oral human papillomavirus 16
Authors: Minhas Sadia , Kashif Muhammad , Nisar Haseeb , Idrees Muhammad , Ansari Farheen
Published: March 2024

High-throughput genome-wide sequencing has revealed high genomic variability of HPV16 in different geographic regions which is the most predominant genotype in human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated malignancies. Analysis of the HPV16 by whole-genome sequence (WGS) is an advanced method for the identification of mutations in the genome. There is limited information about HPV16 diversity in Pakistan, especially at the genomic level. Till now, WGS for HPV16 has not been previously reported in Pakistan. The current study has sequenced three HPV16 viral genomes, from two cervical and one oral cavity positive sample of women presented with general gynecological problems without any evidence of precancerous or cancerous lesions using an ion ampliseq customized panel. Sequencing analysis detected 38 variations, including single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and two Indels, across three samples with the highest number of SNPs present in E1, E2, and L2, respectively. A total of 20 non-synonymous and 11 synonymous mutations with amino acid substitutions (T1421C, G1515A, T2223C, T1389C, G1483A, and T2191C) were identified. The phylogenetic analysis revealed the genomes of HPV16 are closely associated with those reported from Thailand and the United States. These are the first HPV16 WGS from Pakistan. However, more research is needed with a large sample size from diversified areas to assess the carcinogenic consequences and impact of HPV vaccinations.
Aedes-borne orthoflavivirus infections in neotropical primates – Ecology, susceptibility, and pathogenesis
Authors: Almeida Paula Rodrigues de , Weber Matheus Nunes , Sonne Luciana , Spilki Fernando Rosado
Published: March 2024

Arboviral diseases comprise a group of important infectious diseases imposing a heavy burden to public health in many locations of the world. Orthoflaviviruses are viruses belonging to the genus Orthoflavivirus; this genus includes some of the most relevant arboviruses to human health. Orthoflaviviruses can infect several different hosts, with some species being transmitted in cycles involving birds and anthropophilic mosquitoes and others transmitted between mammals and mostly Aedes sp. mosquitoes. Some of the most important sylvatic reservoirs of orthoflaviviruses are non-human primates (NHPs). Many flaviviruses that infect NHPs in nature have the potential to cause epidemics in humans, as has been observed in the cases of Orthoflavivirus denguei (dengue virus – DENV), Orthoflavivirus flavi (yellow fever virus – YFV), and Orthoflavivirus zikaense (Zika virus – ZIKV). In this minireview, we discuss important aspects regarding history, ecology involving NHP, distribution, disease outcome, and pathogenesis of these three major orthoflaviviruses that affect humans and NHP and relate this information to the potential of using NHP as experimental models. In addition, we suggest some orthoflaviviruses that could be better investigated, both in nature and in experimental studies, in light of the recent revolution in molecular biology.
Deep learning diagnostic performance and visual insights in differentiating benign and malignant thyroid nodules on ultrasound images
Authors: Liu Yujiang , Feng Ying , Qian Linxue , Wang Zhixiang , Hu Xiangdong
Published: March 2024

This study aims to construct and evaluate a deep learning model, utilizing ultrasound images, to accurately differentiate benign and malignant thyroid nodules. The objective includes visualizing the model’s process for interpretability and comparing its diagnostic precision with a cohort of 80 radiologists. We employed ResNet as the classification backbone for thyroid nodule prediction. The model was trained using 2096 ultrasound images of 655 distinct thyroid nodules. For performance evaluation, an independent test set comprising 100 cases of thyroid nodules was curated. In addition, to demonstrate the superiority of the artificial intelligence (AI) model over radiologists, a Turing test was conducted with 80 radiologists of varying clinical experience. This was meant to assess which group of radiologists’ conclusions were in closer alignment with AI predictions. Furthermore, to highlight the interpretability of the AI model, gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) was employed to visualize the model’s areas of focus during its prediction process. In this cohort, AI diagnostics demonstrated a sensitivity of 81.67%, a specificity of 60%, and an overall diagnostic accuracy of 73%. In comparison, the panel of radiologists on average exhibited a diagnostic accuracy of 62.9%. The AI’s diagnostic process was significantly faster than that of the radiologists. The generated heat-maps highlighted the model’s focus on areas characterized by calcification, solid echo and higher echo intensity, suggesting these areas might be indicative of malignant thyroid nodules. Our study supports the notion that deep learning can be a valuable diagnostic tool with comparable accuracy to experienced senior radiologists in the diagnosis of malignant thyroid nodules. The interpretability of the AI model’s process suggests that it could be clinically meaningful. Further studies are necessary to improve diagnostic accuracy and support auxiliary diagnoses in primary care settings.
Closing the Loop for Precise Seizure Control
Authors: Gu Bin
Published: March 2024

[Box: see text]
An exploration of the influence of animal and object categories on recall of item location following an incidental learning task
Authors: Clark Dan PA , Donnelly Nick
Published: March 2024

The current study explores the role of attention in location memory for animals and objects. Participants completed an incidental learning task where they rated animals and objects with regard to either their ease of collection to win a scavenger hunt (Experiments 1a and b) or their distance from the centre of the computer screen (Experiment 2). The images of animals and objects were pseudo-randomly positioned on the screen in both experiments. After completing the incidental learning task (and a reverse counting distractor task), participants were then given a surprise location memory recall task. In the location memory recall task, items were shown in the centre of the screen and participants used the mouse to indicate the position the item had been shown during the incidental encoding task. The results of both experiments show that location memory for objects was more accurate than for animals. While we cannot definitively identify the mechanism responsible for the difference in the location memory of objects and animals, we propose that differences in the influence of object-based attention at encoding affect location memory when tested at recall.
Nitrous oxide-induced subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord
Authors: Kwek Georgina , Wong Zi Yang , Salkade Parag Ratnakar , Pek Jen Heng , Joshi Chinmaya Shrikant
Published: March 2024

The differential diagnoses of a patient presenting with motor weakness is broad and requires a systematic approach at the Emergency Department when evaluating its underlying cause. While nitrous oxide neurotoxicity is uncommon, it is important to consider it as a possible differential in patients with preceding exposure, as treatment is readily available. We present a case report with magnetic resonance imaging images of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord due to nitrous oxide induced vitamin B12 deficiency.
Prevalence, medication adherence, and determinants of type 2 diabetes mellitus during Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic among adults in Tanzania
Authors: Yustus Isaack M , Millanzi Walter C , Herman Patricia Z
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Excessive consumption of comfort foods, which are mostly high in carbs, and limitations on outdoor and gym-based physical activities, for instance, are associated with foods high in the glycemic index and raise the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. In pandemic and or epidemic situations, peoples’ lifestyles may change significantly to lead them to non-communicable diseases. However, lifestyle changes and the occurrence of type 2 diabetes mellitus during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic among adults have not been well established in Tanzania. This study assessed the prevalence, medication adherence, and determinants of type 2 diabetes mellitus among adults in the country.

Methods:

A community-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Dodoma region, Tanzania between September and October 2020 of which 107 adults aged above 18 years were studied regardless of whether they were newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus or not using a quantitative research approach. Interviewer-administered lifestyle habits and medication adherence structured questionnaires benchmarked from previous studies served as the main tools of data collection. The statistical package for social sciences computer program was used to analyze the data descriptively for frequencies and percentages and by regression analysis model to determine the association between variables with a 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level.

Results:

With a mean age of 31 ± 2.527 years, 59.8% of the respondents were female. 60.7% and 11.7% of the respondents had unhealthy and moderate lifestyle choices respectively. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus accounted for 63.9% of the respondents of which 44.6% were diagnostically confirmed during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic against 19.3% of respondents who were diagnosed before the pandemic. Medication adherence among the type 2 diabetes mellitus respondents accounted for 77.9% of the study respondents. Type 2 diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with being in the 36–55 age group (AOR = 1.054; 95% CI: 0.292, 3.162; p < 0.05); being female (AOR = 1.398; 95% CI: 0.205, 3.048; p < 0.05); having a job (AOR = 2.597; 95% CI: 1.243, 4.402, p < 0.05); and having unhealthy lifestyle habits (AOR = 3.301; 95% CI: 1.199, 6.52; p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The majority of adults had type 2 diabetes mellitus of which most of them were confirmed to have the disease during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic. Few type 2 diabetes mellitus adults did not adhere to their medications as recommended. Their sociodemographic characteristics profiles and unhealthy lifestyles significantly led them to have the problem. The treatment of the disease above and health promotion activities may need to take unhealthy lifestyle choices and certain sociodemographic profiles of adults into consideration to assist in preventing the problem.
‘Better see a doctor?’ Status quo of symptom checker apps in Germany: A cross-sectional survey with a mixed-methods design (CHECK.APP)
Authors: Wetzel Anna-Jasmin , Koch Roland , Koch Nadine , Klemmt Malte , Müller Regina , Preiser Christine , Rieger Monika , Rösel Inka , Ranisch Robert , Ehni Hans-Jörg , Joos Stefanie
Published: March 2024

Background

Symptom checker apps (SCAs) offer symptom classification and low-threshold self-triage for laypeople. They are already in use despite their poor accuracy and concerns that they may negatively affect primary care. This study assesses the extent to which SCAs are used by medical laypeople in Germany and which software is most popular. We examined associations between satisfaction with the general practitioner (GP) and SCA use as well as the number of GP visits and SCA use. Furthermore, we assessed the reasons for intentional non-use.

Methods

We conducted a survey comprising standardised and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were weighted, and open-ended responses were examined using thematic analysis.

Results

This study included 850 participants. The SCA usage rate was 8%, and approximately 50% of SCA non-users were uninterested in trying SCAs. The most commonly used SCAs were NetDoktor and Ada. Surprisingly, SCAs were most frequently used in the age group of 51–55 years. No significant associations were found between SCA usage and satisfaction with the GP or the number of GP visits and SCA usage. Thematic analysis revealed skepticism regarding the results and recommendations of SCAs and discrepancies between users’ requirements and the features of apps.

Conclusion

SCAs are still widely unknown in the German population and have been sparsely used so far. Many participants were not interested in trying SCAs, and we found no positive or negative associations of SCAs and primary care.
Diabetes prediction model for unbalanced community follow-up data set based on optimal feature selection and scorecard
Authors: Jiang Liangjun , Yang Zerui , Wang Donghai , Gong Haimei , Li Juan , Wang Jing , Wang Lei
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Diabetes is a metabolic disease and early detection is crucial to ensuring a healthy life for people with prediabetes. Community care plays an important role in public health, but the association between community follow-up of key life characteristics and diabetes risk remains unclear. Based on the method of optimal feature selection and risk scorecard, follow-up data of diabetes patients are modeled to assess diabetes risk.

Methods

We conducted a study on the diabetes risk assessment model and risk scorecard using follow-up data from diabetes patients in Haizhu District, Guangzhou, from 2016 to 2023. The raw data underwent preprocessing and imbalance handling. Subsequently, features relevant to diabetes were selected and optimized to determine the optimal subset of features associated with community follow-up and diabetes risk. We established the diabetes risk assessment model. Furthermore, for a comprehensible and interpretable risk expression, the Weight of Evidence transformation method was applied to features. The transformed features were discretized using the quantile binning method to design the risk scorecard, mapping the model's output to five risk levels.

Results

In constructing the diabetes risk assessment model, the Random Forest classifier achieved the highest accuracy. The risk scorecard obtained an accuracy of 85.16%, precision of 87.30%, recall of 80.26%, and an F1 score of 83.27% on the unbalanced research dataset. The performance loss compared to the diabetes risk assessment model was minimal, suggesting that the binning method used for constructing the diabetes risk scorecard is reasonable, with very low feature information loss.

Conclusion

The methods provided in this article demonstrate effectiveness and reliability in the assessment of diabetes risk. The assessment model and scorecard can be directly applied to community doctors for large-scale risk identification and early warning and can also be used for individual self-examination to reduce risk factor levels.
Effects of Scapular Angular Deviations on Potential for Rotator Cuff Tendon Mechanical Compression
Authors: Lawrence Rebekah L. , Richardson Laura B. , Bilodeau Hannah L. , Bonath Dane J. , Dahn Daniel J. , Em Mary-Ann , Sarkar Sanjay , Braman Jonathan P. , Ludewig Paula M.
Published: March 2024

Background:

One proposed mechanism of rotator cuff disease is scapular motion impairments contributing to rotator cuff compression and subsequent degeneration.

Purpose:

To model the effects of scapular angular deviations on rotator cuff tendon proximity for subacromial and internal mechanical impingement risk during scapular plane abduction.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Three-dimensional bone models were reconstructed from computed tomography scans obtained from 10 asymptomatic subjects and 9 symptomatic subjects with a clinical presentation of impingement syndrome. Models were rotated to average scapular orientations from a healthy dataset at higher (120°) and lower (subject-specific) humeral elevation angles to investigate internal and subacromial impingement risks, respectively. Incremental deviations in scapular upward/downward rotation, internal/external rotation, and anterior/posterior tilt were imposed on the models to simulate scapular movement impairments. The minimum distance between the rotator cuff insertions and potential impinging structures (eg, glenoid, acromion) was calculated. Two-way mixed-model analyses of variance assessed for effects of scapular deviation and group.

Results:

At 120° of humerothoracic elevation, minimum distances from the supraspinatus and infraspinatus insertions to the glenoid increased with ≥5° changes in upward rotation (1.6-9.8 mm, P < .001) or external rotation (0.9-5.0 mm, P≤ .048), or with ≥10° changes in anterior tilt (1.1-3.2 mm, P < .001). At lower angles, ≥20° changes in most scapular orientations significantly increased the distance between the supraspinatus and infraspinatus insertions and the acromion or coracoacromial ligament.

Conclusion:

A reduction in scapular upward rotation decreases the distance between the rotator cuff tendon insertions and glenoid at 120° humerothoracic elevation. Interpretation is complicated for lower angles because the humeral elevation angle was defined by the minimum distance.

Clinical Relevance:

These results may assist clinical decision making regarding the effects of scapular movement deviations in patients with rotator cuff pathology and scapular dyskinesia and may help inform the selection of clinical interventions.
Book review: Gerald Chan. China’s Digital Silk Road: Setting Standards, Powering Growth
Authors: Reghunadhan Ramnath
Published: March 2024

Gerald Chan. China’s Digital Silk Road: Setting Standards, Powering Growth. Northampton, MA: Edward Elgar Publishing, 2022. 196 pp. (hardback). ISBN: 9781803921204.
The Blue Pacific in Search of a Collective Identity: Towards Success in Regional Security amid US–China Rivalry
Authors: Wada Moe , Cavassa Gabriela Wurst , Ikeda Ryo
Published: March 2024

The Pacific Islands region has emerged as one of the central areas where the geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China is playing out. Thus, to safeguard their own interests, the Pacific Island countries have attempted to manage the competing policies of these external partners. This study focuses the recent adoption of the ‘Blue Pacific concept’ to examine how Pacific Island countries attempt to influence the engagement of their external partners in the region. The formation of the ‘Blue Pacific’ identity must be understood as a mutual process between the Pacific Islands countries and their external partners because they are seeking cooperation with these partners to address the security concerns. We find that the ‘Blue Pacific’ identity formation aligns with region-building, which allows the Pacific Islands countries to stress their own security issues. This study highlights the challenges and opportunities of constructing a collective identity in this context. Finally, the effectiveness of the Blue Pacific strategy remains debatable, although it has yielded success in gaining recognition and support from the external partners.
Book review: Christophe Jaffrelot, Modi’s India: Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy
Authors: Maitra Sreya
Published: March 2024

Christophe Jaffrelot, Modi’s India: Hindu Nationalism and the Rise of Ethnic Democracy (C. Schoch English Trans.). Princeton and Oxford: Princeton University Press, 2021, 656 pages, (Hardbound). ISBN: 978-0-691-20680-6.
Serotonin as a biomarker of toxin-induced Parkinsonism
Authors: Buchanan Anna Marie , Mena Sergio , Choukari Iman , Vasa Aditya , Crawford Jesseca N. , Fadel Jim , Maxwell Nick , Reagan Lawrence , Cruikshank Allie , Best Janet , Nijhout H. Fred , Reed Michael , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: March 2024

Background

Loss of dopaminergic neurons underlies the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However stereotypical PD symptoms only manifest after approximately 80% of dopamine neurons have died making dopamine-related motor phenotypes unreliable markers of the earlier stages of the disease. There are other non-motor symptoms, such as depression, that may present decades before motor symptoms.

Methods

Because serotonin is implicated in depression, here we use niche, fast electrochemistry paired with mathematical modelling and machine learning to, for the first time, robustly evaluate serotonin neurochemistry in vivo in real time in a toxicological model of Parkinsonism, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP).

Results

Mice treated with acute MPTP had lower concentrations of in vivo, evoked and ambient serotonin in the hippocampus, consistent with the clinical comorbidity of depression with PD. These mice did not chemically respond to SSRI, as strongly as control animals did, following the clinical literature showing that antidepressant success during PD is highly variable. Following L-DOPA administration, using a novel machine learning analysis tool, we observed a dynamic shift from evoked serotonin release in the hippocampus to dopamine release. We hypothesize that this finding shows, in real time, that serotonergic neurons uptake L-DOPA and produce dopamine at the expense of serotonin, supporting the significant clinical correlation between L-DOPA and depression. Finally, we found that this post L-DOPA dopamine release was less regulated, staying in the synapse for longer. This finding is perhaps due to lack of autoreceptor control and may provide a ground from which to study L-DOPA induced dyskinesia.

Conclusions

These results validate key prior hypotheses about the roles of serotonin during PD and open an avenue to study to potentially improve therapeutics for levodopa-induced dyskinesia and depression.
Introduction of a formative assessment tool in a post-graduate training program in India: a mixed methods evaluation
Authors: Douglass Katherine , Ahluwalia Tania , McKiernan Brianna , Patel Heena , Powell Natasha , Keller Jacob , Toy Serkan
Published: March 2024

Background

Our institution has longstanding post-graduate education and training partnership programs in Emergency Medicine (EM) across India. A programmatic challenge has been the integration and uptake of evidence-based medicine and lifelong learning concepts. Formative assessment (FA) is intended to enable learners to monitor learning, identify strengths and weaknesses, and target areas of growth. As part of a program improvement initiative, we introduced an online FA tool to existing summative assessments. This study investigates how the FA tool was used and perceived by trainees.

Methods

246 trainees across 19 sites were given access to the FA tool. Usage metrics were monitored over 12 months. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in person with trainees using a purposive sampling methodology. A hybrid thematic analysis approach was used to determine themes. Interviews were coded independently by two blinded researchers using NVivo software. The study was deemed exempt by our institutional review board.

Results

There was high variability in trainees’ utilization of the FA tool. Trainees who used the FA tool more performed better on summative exams (r = 0.35, p < 0.001). Qualitative analysis revealed that trainees were motivated to learn for improved clinical knowledge and to be a good physician, not only passing exams. Benefits of the tool included the relationship to clinical practice and thorough explanation of answers, while disadvantages included topics unrelated to India.

Conclusion

The integration of a FA tool has provided positive outcomes for trainees in EM education programs in India. Lessons learned may apply globally to other contexts and programs.
Targeted next-generation sequencing and long-read HiFi sequencing provide novel insights into clinically significant KLF1 variants
Authors: Ye Luyi , Wang Chen , Li Aijing , Li Minghao , Pi Yan , Yang Jingmin , Zhu Ziyan , Lu Daru
Published: March 2024

Background

Krüppel-like factor 1 (KLF1), a crucial erythroid transcription factor, plays a significant role in various erythroid changes and haemolytic diseases. The rare erythrocyte Lutheran inhibitor (In(Lu)) blood group phenotype serves as an effective model for identifying KLF1 hypomorphic and loss-of-function variants. In this study, we aimed to analyse the genetic background of the In(Lu) phenotype in a population-based sample group by high-throughput technologies to find potentially clinically significant KLF1 variants.

Results

We included 62 samples with In(Lu) phenotype, screened from over 300,000 Chinese blood donors. Among them, 36 samples were sequenced using targeted Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), whereas 19 samples were sequenced using High Fidelity (HiFi) technology. In addition, seven samples were simply sequenced using Sanger sequencing. A total of 29 hypomorphic or loss-of-function variants of KLF1 were identified, 21 of which were newly discovered. All new variants discovered by targeted NGS or HiFi sequencing were validated through Sanger sequencing, and the obtained results were found to be consistent. The KLF1 haplotypes of all new variants were further confirmed using clone sequencing or HiFi sequencing. The lack of functional KLF1 variants detected in the four samples indicates the presence of additional regulatory mechanisms. In addition, some samples exhibited BCAM polymorphisms, which encodes antigens of the Lutheran (LU) blood group system. However, no BCAM mutations which leads to the absence of LU proteins were detected.

Conclusions

High-throughput sequencing methods, particularly HiFi sequencing, were introduced for the first time into genetic analysis of the In(Lu) phenotype. Targeted NGS and HiFi sequencing demonstrated the accuracy of the results, providing additional advantages such as simultaneous analysis of other blood group genes and clarification of haplotypes. Using the In(Lu) phenotype, a powerful model for identifying hypomorphic or loss-of-function KLF1 variants, numerous novel variants have been detected, which have contributed to the comprehensive understanding of KLF1. These clinically significant KLF1 mutations can serve as a valuable reference for the diagnosis of related blood cell diseases.
Functional characterization of D-type cyclins involved in cell division in rice
Authors: Jiang Zhishu , Wang Xin , Zhou Zhiwei , Peng Limei , Lin Xiaoli , Luo Xiaowei , Song Yongping , Ning Huaying , Gan Cong , He Xiaopeng , Zhu Changlan , Ouyang Linjuan , Zhou Dahu , Cai Yicong , Xu Jie , He Haohua , Liu Yantong
Published: March 2024

Background

D-type cyclins (CYCD) regulate the cell cycle G1/S transition and are thus closely involved in cell cycle progression. However, little is known about their functions in rice.

Results

We identified 14 CYCD genes in the rice genome and confirmed the presence of characteristic cyclin domains in each. The expression of the OsCYCD genes in different tissues was investigated. Most OsCYCD genes were expressed at least in one of the analyzed tissues, with varying degrees of expression. Ten OsCYCD proteins could interact with both retinoblastoma-related protein (RBR) and A-type cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKA) forming holistic complexes, while OsCYCD3;1, OsCYCD6;1, and OsCYCD7;1 bound only one component, and OsCYCD4;2 bound to neither protein. Interestingly, all OsCYCD genes except OsCYCD7;1, were able to induce tobacco pavement cells to re-enter mitosis with different efficiencies. Transgenic rice plants overexpressing OsCYCD2;2, OsCYCD6;1, and OsCYCD7;1 (which induced cell division in tobacco with high-, low-, and zero-efficiency, respectively) were created. Higher levels of cell division were observed in both the stomatal lineage and epidermal cells of the OsCYCD2;2- and OsCYCD6;1-overexpressing plants, with lower levels seen in OsCYCD7;1-overexpressing plants.

Conclusions

The distinct expression patterns and varying effects on the cell cycle suggest different functions for the various OsCYCD proteins. Our findings will enhance understanding of the CYCD family in rice and provide a preliminary foundation for the future functional verification of these genes.
Efficacy of povidone-iodine nasal rinse and mouth wash in COVID-19 management: a prospective, randomized pilot clinical trial (povidone-iodine in COVID-19 management)
Authors: Alsaleh Saad , Alhussien Ahmed , Alyamani Abduljabbar , Alhussain Fahad , Alhijji Ali , Binkhamis Khalifa , Khan Anas , Javer Amin , Alshahrani Fatimah S.
Published: March 2024

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the efficacy of 0.23% povidone-iodine (PVP-I) nasal rinses and mouth washes on detectability of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus and cycle threshold (Ct) values in nasopharyngeal swabs.

Study design

This was an open-label, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Setting

The study was conducted in King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from August 2021 to July 2022.

Methods

Participants diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 were randomly assigned to one of three groups, with participants receiving either 0.23% PVP-I, 0.9% normal saline (NS) nasal rinses and mouth washes, or no intervention (control group). Nasopharyngeal swabs were taken 4, 8, 12, and 18 days after the first swab to measure the detectability of the virus and the Ct.

Results

A total of 19 participants were involved in this study. The mean viral survival was 9.8, 12, and 12.6 days for the PVP-I, NS, and control groups, respectively, with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.046). The Ct mean values were 23 ± 3.4, 23.5 ± 6.3, and 26.3 ± 5.9 at the time of recruitment and 25.2 ± 3.5, 15 ± 11.7, and 26.9 ± 6.4 after 4 days for the PVP-I, NS, and control groups, respectively.

Conclusions

When used continuously at a concentration of 0.23%, PVP-I showed promising results in terms of decreasing the pandemic burden by reducing the period of infectiousness and viral load. However, the use of PVP-I did not result in significantly different changes in the quality-of-life parameters in recently vaccinated and mild COVID-19 patients.
The novel circRNA circ_0045881 inhibits cell proliferation and invasion by targeting mir-214-3p in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Ren Jie , Chen Wei , Zhou Ya , Sun Jianxiong , Jiang Guoqin
Published: March 2024

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer (BC). The circRNA-miRNA‒mRNA axis is a promising biomarker for the early diagnosis and prognosis of BC. However, the critical circRNA mediators involved in TNBC progression and the underlying regulatory mechanism involved remain largely unclear.

Methods

In this study, we carried out a circRNA microarray analysis of 6 TNBC patients and performed a gene ontology (GO) analysis. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was used to characterize important circRNAs involved in TNBC progression. The interaction between circRNAs and miRNAs was determined by dual luciferase and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Moreover, Transwell, wound healing and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8) assays were performed with altered circRNA or miRNA expression in MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cells to investigate the roles of these genes in cell invasion, migration and proliferation.

Results

A total of 78 circRNAs were differentially expressed in TNBC tissues, and the hsa_circ_0045881 level was significantly decreased in TNBC tissues and cells. Lentivirus-mediated hsa_circ_0045881 overexpression in MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cells significantly reduced cell invasion and migration capacity. Additionally, hsa_circ_0045881 interacted with miR-214-3p in MDA-MB-231 cells. miR-214-3p mimics in MDA-MB-231 and BT-549 cells significantly enhanced cell invasion, migration and proliferation, but the other combinations of inhibitors had opposite effects on cell activity.

Conclusions

Our data indicated that the circRNA has_circ_0045881 plays key roles in TNBC progression and that hsa_circ_0045881 might act as a sponge for miR-214-3p to modulate its levels in TNBC cells, thereby regulating cell invasion, metastasis and proliferation. hsa_circ_004588 might be a potential prognostic marker and therapeutic target for TNBC.
Effectiveness of mindful self-compassion therapy on psychopathology symptoms, psychological distress and life expectancy in infertile women treated with in vitro fertilization: a two-arm double-blind parallel randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sahraian Kimia , Abdollahpour Ranjbar Hamed , Namavar Jahromi Bahia , Cheung Ho Nam , Ciarrochi Joseph , Habibi Asgarabad Mojtaba
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Infertility is a prominent problem affecting millions of couples worldwide. Recently, there has been a hightened emphasis on elucidating the subtle linkages between infertility treatment leveraging assisted reproductive technology and the complex realm of psychological challenges, as well as efforts in implementation of psychological interventions.The Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) program seeks to improve self-compassion, compassion for others, mindfulness, and life satisfaction while reducing depression, anxiety, and stress. In the current study, an MSC intervention was performed on infertile women (IW) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) to assess the effectiveness of this intervention in reducing psychological distress and psychopathological symptoms and enhancing life expectancy.

Methods

Fifty-seven IW undergoing IVF were randomly allocated to two groups: MSC (n = 29) or treatment as usual (TAU; n = 28). Participants in MSC met once a week for two hours for eight weeks and attended a half-day meditation retreat. The Synder's Hope questionnaire and the Revised 90-Symptom Checklist (SCL-90-R) were used as the primary outcome measures. Data were obtained before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and two months post-intervention. Repeated measures of ANCOVA and paired t-tests in all assessment points were used to compare the MSC and the TAU groups in outcomes.

Results

In the MSC group, hopelessness, anger-hostility, anxiety, interpersonal sensitivity difficulties, and depression were significantly reduced compared with the TAU group, and those improvements persisted at the two-month follow-up. Reliable change index revealed that the MSC group's gains were both clinically significant and durable.

Conclusions

MSC can facilitate higher life satisfaction and mental well-being for IW undergoing IVF by reducing psychological distress, psychopathological symptoms, and hopelessness. These encouraging findings call for more research into the effectiveness of mindfulness-based therapies in addressing psychological problems among IW undergoing IVF.
Prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression one year after intensive care unit admission for COVID-19
Authors: Hussain Netha , Samuelsson Carina M. , Drummond Avril , Persson Carina U.
Published: March 2024

Background

To the best of our knowledge, the long term prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression in ICU admitted individuals after COVID-19 in Sweden during the first wave of the pandemic has not been investigated. Furthermore, no studies have exclusively investigated the risk factors for experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression in this population.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression at one year after ICU admission for COVID-19. An additional aim was to identify any early predictors that are associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression, at one year following ICU admission for COVID-19.

Methods

This multicenter cohort study had a cross-sectional and a longitudinal design. The primary outcomes and dependent variables, symptoms of anxiety and depression, were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The independent variables were related to demographic factors, comorbidities, and complications during COVID-19-related ICU admission. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify any predictors of symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Results

Out of 182 eligible individuals, 105 participated in the study. Symptoms of anxiety was found in 40 (38.1%) and depression in 37 (35.2%) of the participants. Using univariable logistic regression analyses, female sex was identified as a predictor of depression as defined by HADS at one year following ICU admission for COVID-19 (odds ratio 2.53, 95% confidence intervals 1.01–6.34, p-value 0.048).

Conclusions

The high prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression in ICU admitted individuals one year after COVID-19 is a public health issue of concern. Our findings imply that individuals who recovered after an ICU stay for COVID-19 may benefit from long-term follow-ups and continuous mental health support for more than a year following the ICU admission. For women specifically, this is true.

Trial registration

The study was registered at researchweb.org on 28 May 2020 (Project number: 274477).
Associations of perceived stress with loneliness and depressive symptoms: the mediating role of sleep quality
Authors: Wang Xiao , Cao Xingqi , Yu Jiening , Jin Shuyi , Li Shengyi , Chen Liying , Liu Zuyun , Ge Xuan , Lu Yangzhen
Published: March 2024

Background

Whether perceived stress is associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms in general adults, and to what extent sleep quality mediates the associations, remains unknown. The aim of this study was to estimate the associations of perceived stress with loneliness and depressive symptoms, and the mediating role of sleep quality in these associations.

Methods

Cross-sectional data on 734 participants (aged 18–87 years) were analyzed. Perceived stress was assessed using the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10; range 0–40). Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI; range 0–21). Loneliness was assessed using the three-item short form of the Revised University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) loneliness scale (range 3–9). Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CESD-10) Scale (range 0–30). General linear regression models, multivariable logistic regression models, and formal mediation analysis were performed.

Results

After adjustment for age and sex, we found that with each 1-point increment in the perceived stress score, both the loneliness score (β = 0.07; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06, 0.08) and depression score (β = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.40, 0.49) increased significantly. Robust results were observed when adjusting for more confounders. Furthermore, sleep quality mediated 5.3% (95% CI: 1.3%, 10.0%; P = 0.014) and 9.7% (95% CI: 6.2%, 14.0%; P < 0.001) of the associations of perceived stress score with loneliness score and depression score, respectively.

Conclusions

In general Chinese adults, perceived stress was positively associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms, and sleep quality partially mediated these associations. The findings reveal a potential pathway from perceived stress to mental health through sleep behaviors, and highlight the importance of implementing sleep intervention programs for promoting mental health among those who feel highly stressed.
Unravelling the dilemma of self-medication in Egypt: a cross-sectional survey on knowledge, attitude, and practice of the general Egyptian population
Authors: Ali Hossam Tharwat , Barakat Mostafa , Abdelhalim Ahmed Reda , Al-Kurd Ibrahim Noureddin , Muhammad Muhammad Kamal-Eldeen , Sharkawy Mohamed Mostafa , Elbahnasawy Mohamed , Amer Samar Ahmed ,   Self-Medication Collaborative Group, Masoud Muhammad , Rabea Mahmoud Ahmed , Aboelala Abdelrahman , Nada Eman Ayman , Khalil Sara Abdelhameed , Sharaf Amal M. , Ibrahim Bassant Ashraf , Rabea Hanin Abdelhamied , Omar Nourhan , AboEl-Azm Yosra Hussein , Hedawy Sohieb , Hendawy Abdelrahman
Published: March 2024

Background

Self-medication (SM) is a rising public health issue, especially in developing countries. It can be associated with various problems such as the delayed seeking of medical advice, drug interactions, and serious events such as antimicrobial drug resistance. We aimed to evaluate the Egyptian general population’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices of SM.

Methods

We employed a cross-sectional design between February 7th and March 8th, 2023 using a self-administered questionnaire available in Arabic. The questionnaire was developed based on previous studies and included four domains: sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitude, and practice of SM. We utilized both online (Google Forms) and paper surveys, utilizing convenience and snowball sampling methods. Data were analyzed using R Statistical Software (v4.1.3; R Core Team 2022).

Results

1630 Egyptian individuals (838 females and 792 males) from the seven provinces were enrolled, with a median age of 25 years (IQR: 22–40). Around 55.97% and 48.28% of the participants had good knowledge and favorable attitudes regarding SM respectively, while 62.8% had practiced SM in the previous three months. The most frequently used medications were painkillers (60.74%) followed by antibiotics (32.13%) and antipyretics (28.61%). The pharmacist’s recommendation was the source of SM for 53.61% while 31.53% used old medications at home. Most participants (59.08%) practiced SM because they thought they had simple or minor symptoms. The multivariate regression analysis revealed that females had significantly higher knowledge of SM than males (aOR: 2.10; 95%CI: 1.64—2.71; p-value < 0.001), with no significant differences in practice (aOR: 1.24; 95%CI: 0.99 – 1.56; p-value = 0.065). Individuals working or studying in the medical field were significantly more knowledgeable about SM (aOR: 4.30; 95%CI: 3.27–5.69; p-value < 0.001) and more likely to practice SM (aOR: 1.65; 95%CI: 1.26–2.17; p-value < 0.001). The odds of SM decreased with favorable attitudes (aOR: 0.44; 95%CI: 0.36–0.55; p-value < 0.001) while surprisingly, knowledge level was not significantly contributing to SM practice (aOR: 1.15; 95%CI: 0.90–1.48; p-value = 0.268).

Conclusions

SM is prevalent in Egypt, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and encouraging physician consultation as a priority. Governments, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions need to collaborate to provide the necessary support and resources.
The use and potential impact of digital health tools at the community level: results from a multi-country survey of community health workers
Authors: Blondino Courtney T. , Knoepflmacher Alex , Johnson Ingrid , Fox Cameron , Friedman Lorna
Published: March 2024

Background

Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly viewed as a critical workforce to address health system strengthening and sustainable development goals. Optimizing and widening the capacity of this workforce through digital technology is currently underway, though there is skepticism regarding CHWs’ willingness and optimism to engage in digital health. We sought to understand CHWs’ perceptions on the use of digital health tools in their work.

Methods

We obtained survey data from 1,141 CHWs from 28 countries with complete study information. We conducted regression analyses to explore the relationship between CHWs’ training and perceived barriers to digital health access with current use of digital devices/tools and belief in digital impact while adjusting for demographic factors.

Results

Most of the CHWs worked in Kenya (n = 502, 44%) followed by the Philippines (n = 308, 27%), Ghana (n = 107, 9.4%), and the United States (n = 70, 6.1%). There were significant, positive associations between digital tools training and digital device/tool use (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.92, 95% CI = 2.09–4.13) and belief in digital impact (AORhigh impact = 3.03, 95% CI = 2.04–4.49). CHWs were significantly less likely to use digital devices for their work if they identified cost as a perceived barrier (AORmobile service cost = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.49–0.95; AORphone/device cost = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.47–0.92). CHWs who were optimistic about digital health, were early adopters of technology in their personal lives, and found great value in their work believed digital health helped them to have greater impact. Older age and greater tenure were associated with digital device/tool use and belief in digital impact, respectively.

Conclusions

CHWs are not an obstacle to digital health adoption or use. CHWs believe that digital tools can help them have more impact in their communities regardless of perceived barriers. However, cost is a barrier to digital device/tool use; potential solutions to cost constraints of technological access will benefit from further exploration of reimbursement models. Digital health tools have the potential to increase CHW capacity and shape the future of community health work.
Impact and process evaluation of a primary-school Food Education and Sustainability Training (FEAST) program in 10-12-year-old children in Australia: pragmatic cluster non-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Karpouzis F. , Lindberg R. , Walsh A. , Shah S. , Abbott G. , Ball K.
Published: March 2024

Background

Environmentally sustainable food initiatives accompanying nutrition education, such as the Food Education and Sustainability Training (FEAST) program, have gained traction in school settings. The aim of this trial was to conduct an impact and process evaluation of FEAST, to evaluate its effect on children’s fruit and vegetable (F&V) intakes, and secondary outcomes: F&V variety consumed, nutrition knowledge, food preparation/cooking skills, self-efficacy and behaviours, food waste knowledge and behaviours, and food production knowledge.

Methods

FEAST was a 10-week curriculum-aligned program, designed to educate children about healthy eating, food waste, and sustainability, while teaching cooking skills. It was implemented by classroom teachers, face-to-face and online, during COVID-19 school closures, in Australia in 2021. A custom designed survey was used to collect baseline and post-intervention data from students. Generalised linear mixed models (GLMM) estimated group differences in pre-post changes for primary and secondary outcomes. Surveys were also administered to students and teachers to evaluate intervention implementation.

Results

Twenty schools participated and self-selected to be either intervention schools (n = 10) or wait-list control (WLC) schools (n = 10). A total of 977, 5th and 6th grade children participated in the trial with a mean age of 11.1 years (SD ± 0.7). The FEAST intervention, compared to WLC, did not result in significant increases in primary outcomes nor secondary outcomes. The process evaluation revealed FEAST was well-received by students and teachers, but COVID-19 school closures hindered implementation fidelity with a less intense program delivered under the constraints of pandemic lockdowns.

Conclusions

This is the first cluster non-randomized controlled trial designed to independently evaluate FEAST in the primary-school setting. No evidence was found for improved F&V intakes in children, nor secondary outcomes. However, the positive process evaluation results suggest that further trials of the program are warranted. If implemented as originally designed (pre-pandemic), with increased duration and complemented by supporting school policies, such programs have the potential to improve children’s daily F&V intakes, cooking skills and food waste behaviours. This would support the Australian curriculum and contribute to: health promotion within schools and sustainable schools initiatives, the national agenda to reduce food waste and sustainable development goals.

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry

[ACTRN12620001347954]- Registered prospectively on 14/12/2020.