bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical dietary interventions to prevent cardiovascular disease suitable for implementation in primary care: an ADAPTE-guided systematic review of international clinical guidelines
Authors: Le Goff Delphine , Aerts Naomi , Odorico Michele , Guillou-Landreat Morgane , Perraud Gabriel , Bastiaens Hilde , Musinguzi Geofrey , Le Reste Jean-Yves , Barais Marie
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death globally. The current model of care for high-income countries involves preventive medication and highly trained healthcare professionals, which is expensive and not transposable to low-income countries. An innovative, effective approach adapted to limited human, technical, and financial resources is required. Measures to reduce CVD risk factors, including diet, are proven to be effective. The survey “Scaling-up Packages of Interventions for Cardiovascular disease prevention in selected sites in Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa” aims to develop non-pharmacological cardiovascular prevention and control programs in primary care and community settings in high, middle, and low-income countries. This review aims to identify the existing, validated dietary interventions for primary CVD prevention from national and international clinical guidelines that can be implemented in primary care and communities.

Methods

A systematic review of CVD prevention guidelines was conducted between September 2017 and March 2023 using the Turning Research Into Practice medical database, the Guidelines International Network, and a purposive search. The ADAPTE procedure was followed. Two researchers independently conducted the searches and appraisals. Guidelines published after 01/01/2012 addressing non-pharmacological, dietary interventions for primary CVD prevention or CVD risk factor management, in the adult general population in primary care or in community settings were included and appraised using the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation II score. Individual dietary recommendations and the studies supporting them were extracted. Then supporting data about each specific dietary intervention were extracted into a matrix.

Results

In total, 1375 guidelines were identified, of which 39 were included. From these, 383 recommendations, covering 10 CVD prevention themes were identified. From these recommendations, 165 studies for effective dietary interventions for CVD prevention were found. Among these, the DASH diet was the most effective on multiple CVD risk factors. Combining diet with other interventions such as exercise and smoking cessation increased efficacy. No guidelines provided detailed implementation strategies.

Conclusion

The DASH diet combined with other interventions was the most effective on an individual basis. However, expansion in the wider population seems difficult, without government support to implement regulations such as reducing salt content in processed food.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials NCT03886064
Hsa_circ_0002348 regulates trophoblast proliferation and apoptosis through miR-126-3p/BAK1 axis in preeclampsia
Authors: Zhou Jizi , Zhao Ying , An Ping , Zhao Huanqiang , Li Xiaotian , Xiong Yu
Published: July 2023

Background

Preeclampsia is a common pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs. Abnormal placenta and vascular function can lead to preeclampsia. Accumulating evidence has suggested a potential link between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and preeclampsia. As a placenta and endothelial-expressed circRNA, hsa_circ_0002348, may be promising to be the novel molecular target for preeclampsia. However, the function and mechanism of hsa_circ_0002348 in preeclampsia has not been elucidated.

Materials and methods

An overlap analysis of two circRNA profiles from placenta and endothelial cells was used to identify a functionally unknown circRNA, hsa_circ_0002348. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) were used to detect its expression in the trophoblast cells and placental tissues. The mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced preeclampsia was established to determine the in vivo role of hsa_circ_0002348. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), Luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, western blot, gain- and loss-of-function and rescue experiments were conducted to uncover the role of hsa_circ_0002348 and its interaction with miR-126-3p and BAK1 in regulating trophoblast proliferation and apoptosis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to examine the expression of miR-126-3p and BAK1 in mice and human placentas, respectively.

Results

Hsa_circ_0002348 was significantly increased in the preeclampsia placentas, and positively correlated with the severity of preeclampsia patients’ clinical manifestations. Its overexpression exacerbated preeclampsia-like features in the mouse model of LPS-induced preeclampsia. Functionally, hsa_circ_0002348 was found to inhibit trophoblast proliferation and promote trophoblast apoptosis. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0002348, as an endogenous miR-126-3p sponge, upregulated the expression of BAK1. Additionally, both hsa_circ_0002348 knockdown and miR-126-3p overexpression enhanced the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Hsa_circ_0002348 might be a novel regulator of trophoblast proliferation and apoptosis through miR-126-3p/BAK1 axis in preeclampsia, which may serve as a potential target for detecting and treating preeclampsia.
Mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: new insights from pathogenic mechanisms to clinically targeted therapy
Authors: Zheng Youwei , Wang Shiting , Wu Jialiang , Wang Yong
Published: July 2023

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is among the most widespread metabolic disease globally, and its associated complications including insulin resistance and diabetes have become threatening conditions for human health. Previous studies on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were focused on the liver’s lipid metabolism. However, growing evidence suggests that mitochondrial metabolism is involved in the pathogenesis of NAFLD to varying degrees in several ways, for instance in cellular division, oxidative stress, autophagy, and mitochondrial quality control. Ultimately, liver function gradually declines as a result of mitochondrial dysfunction. The liver is unable to transfer the excess lipid droplets outside the liver. Therefore, how to regulate hepatic mitochondrial function to treat NAFLD has become the focus of current research. This review provides details about the intrinsic link of NAFLD with mitochondrial metabolism and the mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunctions contribute to NAFLD progression. Given the crucial role of mitochondrial metabolism in NAFLD progression, the application potential of multiple mitochondrial function improvement modalities (including physical exercise, diabetic medications, small molecule agonists targeting Sirt3, and mitochondria-specific antioxidants) in the treatment of NAFLD was evaluated hoping to provide new insights into NAFLD treatment.
Discovery of therapeutic targets for spinal cord injury based on molecular mechanisms of axon regeneration after conditioning lesion
Authors: Wang Xiaoxiong , Li Wenxiang , Zhang Jianping , Li Jinze , Zhang Xianjin , Wang Min , Wei Zhijian , Feng Shiqing
Published: July 2023

Background

Preinjury of peripheral nerves triggers dorsal root ganglia (DRG) axon regeneration, a biological change that is more pronounced in young mice than in old mice, but the complex mechanism has not been clearly explained. Here, we aim to gain insight into the mechanisms of axon regeneration after conditioning lesion in different age groups of mice, thereby providing effective therapeutic targets for central nervous system (CNS) injury.

Methods

The microarray GSE58982 and GSE96051 were downloaded and analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, the miRNA-TF-target gene network, and the drug-hub gene network of conditioning lesion were constructed. The L4 and L5 DRGs, which were previously axotomized by the sciatic nerve conditioning lesions, were harvested for qRT-PCR. Furthermore, histological and behavioral tests were performed to assess the therapeutic effects of the candidate drug telmisartan in spinal cord injury (SCI).

Results

A total of 693 and 885 DEGs were screened in the old and young mice, respectively. Functional enrichment indicates that shared DEGs are involved in the inflammatory response, innate immune response, and ion transport. QRT-PCR results showed that in DRGs with preinjury of peripheral nerve, Timp1, P2ry6, Nckap1l, Csf1, Ccl9, Anxa1, and C3 were upregulated, while Agtr1a was downregulated. Based on the bioinformatics analysis of DRG after conditioning lesion, Agtr1a was selected as a potential therapeutic target for the SCI treatment. In vivo experiments showed that telmisartan promoted axonal regeneration after SCI by downregulating AGTR1 expression.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive map of transcriptional changes that discriminate between young and old DRGs in response to injury. The hub genes and their related drugs that may affect the axonal regeneration program after conditioning lesion were identified. These findings revealed the speculative pathogenic mechanism involved in conditioning-dependent regenerative growth and may have translational significance for the development of CNS injury treatment in the future.
Identifying circRNA-associated-ceRNA networks in juvenile spondyloarthropathies patients
Authors: Qijiao Wei , Tao Zhang , Haimei Liu , Guomin Li , Li Sun
Published: July 2023

Background

Juvenile spondyloarthropathies (JSpA) are defined as a heterogeneous group of diseases that start before the age of 16. The study aimed to identify key genes and pathways that are influenced by circRNAs and to screen potential therapeutic agents for JSpA. The study involved the analysis of circRNA expression profiles, identification of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks, and functional annotation of differentially expressed genes. The results of the study may have provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying JSpA and potential therapeutic targets for this disease.

Methods

In this study, sequencing data of circRNA, miRNA, and mRNA were obtained from the GEO datasets. The data were then analyzed to identify candidates for constructing a circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network based on circRNA-miRNA interactions and miRNA-mRNA interactions. Functional enrichments of genes were performed using the DAVID database. A PPI network was constructed using the STRING database and visualized using Cytoscape software. The MCODE plugin app was used to explore hub genes in the PPI network. The expression changes in immune cells were assessed using the online CIBERSORT algorithm to obtain the proportion of various types of immune cells. Finally, the Connectivity Map L1000 platform was used to identify potential agents for JSpA treatment. Overall, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying JSpA and to identify potential therapeutic agents for this disease.

Results

A total of 225 differentially expressed circRNAs (DEcircRNAs), 23 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) and 1324 differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) were identified. We integrated 5 overlapped circRNAs, 7 miRNAs and 299 target mRNAs into a circRNA–miRNA–mRNA network. We next identified 10 hub genes based on the PPI network. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the DEGs were mainly associated with JAK-STAT signal pathway. We found that neutrophils accounted for the majority of all enriched cells. In addition, we discovered several chemicals as potential treatment options for JSpA.

Conclusions

Through this bioinformatics analysis, we suggest a regulatory role for circRNAs in the pathogenesis and treatment of JSpA from the view of a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network.
One pattern analysis (OPA) for the quantitative determination of protein interactions in plant cells
Authors: Maika Jan Eric , Krämer Benedikt , Strotmann Vivien I. , Wellmer Frank , Weidtkamp-Peters Stefanie , Stahl Yvonne , Simon Rüdiger
Published: July 2023

Background

A commonly used approach to study the interaction of two proteins of interest (POIs) in vivo is measuring Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). This requires the expression of the two POIs fused to two fluorescent proteins that function as a FRET pair. A precise way to record FRET is Fluorescence Lifetime IMaging (FLIM) which generates quantitative data that, in principle, can be used to resolve both complex structure and protein affinities. However, this potential resolution is often lost in many experimental approaches. Here we introduce a novel tool for FLIM data analysis of multiexponential decaying donor fluorophores, one pattern analysis (OPA), which allows to obtain information about protein affinity and complex arrangement by extracting the relative amplitude of the FRET component and the FRET transfer efficiency from other FRET parameters.

Results

As a proof of concept for OPA, we used FLIM-FRET, or FLIM-FRET in combination with BiFC to reassess the dimerization and tetramerization properties of known interacting MADS-domain transcription factors in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf cells and Arabidopsis thaliana flowers. Using the OPA tool and by extracting protein BINDING efficiencies from FRET parameters to dissect MADS-domain protein interactions in vivo in transient N. benthamiana experiments, we could show that MADS-domain proteins display similar proximities within dimeric or tetrameric complexes but bind with variable affinities. By combining FLIM with BiFC, we were able to identify SEPALLATA3 as a mediator for tetramerization between the other MADS-domain factors. OPA also revealed that in vivo expression from native promoters at low levels in Arabidopsis flower meristems, makes in situ complex formation of MADS-domain proteins barely detectable.

Conclusions

We conclude that MADS-domain protein interactions are transient in situ and may involve additional, so far unknown interaction mediators. We conclude that OPA can be used to separate protein binding from information about proximity and orientation of the interacting proteins in their complexes. Visualization of individual protein interactions within the underlying interaction networks in the native environment is still restrained if expression levels are low and will require continuous improvements in fluorophore labelling, instrumentation set-ups and analysis tools.
Interleukin-37 is involved in the immunopathogenesis of infectious mononucleosis
Authors: Zhao Mingsheng , Ma Li , Jiang Huihui , Gu Yufeng , Yang Xin , Liu Riming , Sun Chengming , Li Yulan
Published: July 2023

Background

Multiple immunopathological responses to viruses are observed in infectious mononucleosis (IM), a manifestation of primary infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Protective effects of the negative immunoregulatory molecule interleukin-37 (IL-37) have been observed in various bacterial and viral infections. However, the function of IL-37 in IM remains unknown.

Methods

Flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to determine the expression of IL-37 in the peripheral blood of patients diagnosed with IM, and the variation of lymphocyte subsets. Furthermore, the associations between IL-37 expression and the percentage of lymphocyte subgroups were analyzed.

Results

Patients with IM had severe immune dysfunction. The control group had a lower expression of IL-37 than the patients with IM. There were significant associations between IL-37 expression and both the proportion of CD3+T cells and the ratio of CD3+CD4+ to CD3+CD8+T cells. Patients with higher levels of IL-37 expression had lower levels of the liver inflammation indicators, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

Conclusions

IL-37 may affect the immune pathogenesis of patients with IM infected with EBV, and may have immunotherapeutic benefit for EBV-associated illnesses.
Analysis of the relationship between EEG burst suppression and poor prognosis in children under general anaesthesia: study protocol for a prospective, observational, single-centre study
Authors: Xu Qian , Zhang Jianmin , Gao Zhengzheng , Li Shanshan , Li Gan
Published: July 2023

Background

Emergence delirium (ED) in children refers to the immediate postoperative period when children experience decreased perception of their surroundings, accompanied by disorientation and altered perception. Burst suppression (BS) is recognised as periods longer than 0.50 s during which the EEG does not exceed approximately + 5.0 mV, which is an electroencephalographic state associated with profound inactivation of the brain. Our primary objective was to determine the association between BS on electroencephalogram (EEG) under general anaesthesia with postoperative wake-up delirium and multiple adverse outcomes, such as prolonged awakening and extubation.

Methods

In this prospective, observational cohort study at Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China, children aged 6 months to 9 years who underwent surgery under general anaesthesia and underwent EEG monitoring between January 2022 and January 2023 were included. Patients’ prefrontal EEGs were recorded intraoperatively as well as analysed for the occurrence and duration of BS and scored postoperatively for delirium by the PAED scale, with a score of no less than 10 considered as having developed wake-up delirium.

Discussion

This study identified a relationship between EEG BS and postoperative awakening delirium under general anaesthesia in children and provides a novel preventive strategy for postoperative awakening delirium and multiple adverse outcomes in paediatric patients.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200055256. Registered on January 5, 2022.
Morphological and transcriptomic analyses of stem cell-derived cortical neurons reveal mechanisms underlying synaptic dysfunction in schizophrenia
Authors: Kathuria Annie , Lopez-Lengowski Kara , Watmuff Bradley , Karmacharya Rakesh
Published: July 2023

Background

Postmortem studies in schizophrenia consistently show reduced dendritic spines in the cerebral cortex but the mechanistic underpinnings of these deficits remain unknown. Recent genome-wide association studies and exome sequencing investigations implicate synaptic genes and processes in the disease biology of schizophrenia.

Methods

We generated human cortical pyramidal neurons by differentiating iPSCs of seven schizophrenia patients and seven healthy subjects, quantified dendritic spines and synapses in different cortical neuron subtypes, and carried out transcriptomic studies to identify differentially regulated genes and aberrant cellular processes in schizophrenia.

Results

Cortical neurons expressing layer III marker CUX1, but not those expressing layer V marker CTIP2, showed significant reduction in dendritic spine density in schizophrenia, mirroring findings in postmortem studies. Transcriptomic experiments in iPSC-derived cortical neurons showed that differentially expressed genes in schizophrenia were enriched for genes implicated in schizophrenia in genome-wide association and exome sequencing studies. Moreover, most of the differentially expressed genes implicated in schizophrenia genetic studies had lower expression levels in schizophrenia cortical neurons. Network analysis of differentially expressed genes led to identification of NRXN3 as a hub gene, and follow-up experiments showed specific reduction of the NRXN3 204 isoform in schizophrenia neurons. Furthermore, overexpression of the NRXN3 204 isoform in schizophrenia neurons rescued the spine and synapse deficits in the cortical neurons while knockdown of NRXN3 204 in healthy neurons phenocopied spine and synapse deficits seen in schizophrenia cortical neurons. The antipsychotic clozapine increased expression of the NRXN3 204 isoform in schizophrenia cortical neurons and rescued the spine and synapse density deficits.

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings in iPSC-derived cortical neurons recapitulate cell type-specific findings in postmortem studies in schizophrenia and have led to the identification of a specific isoform of NRXN3 that modulates synaptic deficits in schizophrenia neurons.
PyL3dMD: Python LAMMPS 3D molecular descriptors package
Authors: Panwar Pawan , Yang Quanpeng , Martini Ashlie
Published: July 2023

Molecular descriptors characterize the biological, physical, and chemical properties of molecules and have long been used for understanding molecular interactions and facilitating materials design. Some of the most robust descriptors are derived from geometrical representations of molecules, called 3-dimensional (3D) descriptors. When calculated from molecular dynamics (MD) simulation trajectories, 3D descriptors can also capture the effects of operating conditions such as temperature or pressure. However, extracting 3D descriptors from MD trajectories is non-trivial, which hinders their wide use by researchers developing advanced quantitative-structure–property-relationship models using machine learning. Here, we describe a suite of open-source Python-based post-processing routines, called PyL3dMD, for calculating 3D descriptors from MD simulations. PyL3dMD is compatible with the popular simulation package LAMMPS and enables users to compute more than 2000 3D molecular descriptors from atomic trajectories generated by MD simulations. PyL3dMD is freely available via GitHub and can be easily installed and used as a highly flexible Python package on all major platforms (Windows, Linux, and macOS). A performance benchmark study used descriptors calculated by PyL3dMD to develop a neural network and the results showed that PyL3dMD is fast and efficient in calculating descriptors for large and complex molecular systems with long simulation durations. PyL3dMD facilitates the calculation of 3D molecular descriptors using MD simulations, making it a valuable tool for cheminformatics studies.

Graphical Abstract
UDL: a cloud task scheduling framework based on multiple deep neural networks
Authors: Li Qirui , Peng Zhiping , Cui Delong , Lin Jianpeng , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2023

Cloud task scheduling and resource allocation (TSRA) constitute a core issue in cloud computing. Batch submission is a common user task deployment mode in cloud computing systems. In this mode, it has been a challenge for cloud systems to balance the quality of user service and the revenue of cloud service provider (CSP). To this end, with multi-objective optimization (MOO) of minimizing task latency and energy consumption, we propose a cloud TSRA framework based on deep learning (DL). The system solves the TSRA problems of multiple task queues and virtual machine (VM) clusters by uniting multiple deep neural networks (DNNs) as task scheduler of cloud system. The DNNs are divided into exploration part and exploitation part. At each scheduling time step, the model saves the best outputs of all scheduling policies from each DNN to the experienced sample memory pool (SMP), and periodically selects random training samples from SMP to train each DNN of exploitation part. We designed a united deep learning (UDL) algorithm based on this framework. Experimental results show that the UDL algorithm can effectively solve the MOO problem of TSRA for cloud tasks, and performs better than benchmark algorithms such as heterogeneous distributed deep learning (HDDL) in terms of task scheduling performance.
Anaemia, iron deficiency and inflammation prevalence in children in the Mount Cameroon area and the contribution of inflammatory cytokines on haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations: a cross sectional study
Authors: Sama Sharon Odmia , Taiwe Germain Sotoing , Teh Rene Ning , Njume Gwendolyne Elobe , Chiamo Seraphine Njuontsop , Sumbele Irene Ule Ngole
Published: July 2023

Background

Iron deficiency (ID) and anaemia of inflammation (AI) coexist where infections and nutritional deficiencies are common. The aim of this study was to determine burden of ID, anaemia, inflammation and AI in children in malaria endemic Limbe, Mount Cameroon as well as decipher the contribution of some inflammatory cytokines on the concentration of haemoglobin and ferritin.

Methods

A total of 520 children aged ≤ 15 years old from the Limbe Health District (LHD) were randomly selected and examined in a cross-sectional study for iron deficiency, anaemia, inflammation and inflammation anaemia. Collected blood samples were used for full blood count and inflammatory marker analyses with the aid of a haemoanalyzer and ELISA machine, respectively. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between cytokines and haemoglobin while multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the effects of inflammatory cytokines on haemoglobin and ferritin concentrations.

Results

The overall prevalence of anaemia, ID, IDA, inflammation and AI were respectively, 67.5%, 34.6%, 12.9%, 63.1% and 30.2%. Children aged 12‒15 years (P = 0.001), enrolled from the community (P < 0.001), whose parents are civil servants (P < 0.001), living in a home with 6‒10 occupants (P = 0.016), afebrile (P < 0.001) and malaria negative (P = 0.007) had the highest prevalence of ID while, children ≤ 5 years old (P = 0.001), with a family size of 1‒5 occupants (P = 0.033) had the highest prevalence of AI. Haemoglobin concentration positively correlated with concentrations of IFN-γ (P < 0.001), TNF-α (0.045) and ferritin (P < 0.001) while a negative correlation was observed with IL-10 (P = 0.003). In the multiple linear regression analysis only IL-6 significantly (P = 0.030) influenced haemoglobin concentration.

Conclusions

While IL-6 is of significance in the pathology of anaemia, iron deficiency and anaemia of inflammation are of moderate public health concerns in the Mount Cameroon area. Hence, appropriate intervention against anaemia, ID and AI should be directed at children ≤ 5 years and counterparts > 10 years old that bear the highest burden.
My Baby, My Move+: feasibility of a community prenatal wellbeing intervention
Authors: Leiferman Jenn A. , Lacy Rachael , Walls Jessica , Farewell Charlotte V. , Dinger Mary K. , Downs Danielle Symons , Farrabi Sarah S. , Huberty Jennifer L. , Paulson James F.
Published: July 2023

Background

Excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG), insufficient prenatal physical activity and sleep, and poor psychological wellbeing independently increase risks for adverse maternal and infant outcomes. A novel approach to mitigate these risks is utilizing peer support in a community-based prenatal intervention. This study assessed the feasibility (acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality) of a remotely delivered prenatal physical activity intervention called My Baby, My Move + (MBMM +) that aims to increase prenatal physical activity, enhance mood and sleep hygiene, and reduce EGWG.

Methods

Participants were recruited through community organizations, local clinics, and social media platforms in the Fall of 2020 and Spring of 2021. Eligible pregnant women were randomized to either the MBMM + intervention or the control group. Each group met over Zoom for 16 sessions (twice weekly for 60 min over 8 weeks) to learn either behavioral change and wellbeing knowledge and skills (MBMM +) or knowledge and skills related to parenting (control group). Multiple methods of evaluation to better understand the feasibility of the intervention were conducted.

Results

A total of 49 women (25 MBMM + intervention, 24 control) completed both pre- and post-survey assessments and were included in the analyses. A subsample of 19 (39%) intervention participants completed a combination of semi-structured interviews/surveys to assess acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality. Participants expressed positive feedback regarding acceptability (satisfaction and intent to continue use) and wereextremely likelyorlikelyto recommend the program to a friend (demand). Implementation metrics were assessed by observation and feedback forms completed by peer leaders and demonstrated high-quality control. Findings suggest that the intervention was practical due to remote sessions and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

The MBMM + intervention was deemed to be a feasible intervention with high acceptability, demand, implementation, and practicality. These findings can be used to inform the scalability of the intervention and implementation of a larger efficacy trial.

Trial registration

19–1366, initial date is on January 23, 2020.
Using medical university websites for health education about COVID-19; an effective solution for public education during a pandemic
Authors: Cai Lina , Han Jiwei , Aghalari Zahra , Dahms‬ Hans-Uwe
Published: July 2023

Background

Medical universities use their websites to teach, research, and promote a culture of health. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of medical universities in terms of health information and education regarding COVID-19 by surveying the website of Iranian medical universities.

Methods

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in June to August 2020 on the websites of medical universities in three categories of universities (type 1, type 2 and type 3). The information of this study was collected from medical universities located in the east, west, north, south and center of Iran. Data were collected according to a checklist. The checklist contained 3 sections; the first part with 8 components regarding general information of the university websites, the second part with 11 components regarding the information and news related to the coronavirus and the third part with 12 components regarding the content of personal health education and environmental health for the prevention of coronavirus. To determine the status of each website in the two areas of health information and education, websites were divided into three categories based on scores (poor, average and good). Data were analyzed by chi-square.

Results

In this study, 1118 web pages related to 48 Iranian universities of medical sciences were reviewed, where 19 were type 1 universities, 21 type 2 universities, and 8 type 3 universities. The mean scores of the websites regarding the information and news related to the coronavirus (8.54 ± 1.750) and the mean scores of the websites regarding the personal and environmental health education related to coronavirus (10.96 ± 1.148) were in a favorable and positive condition. The ranking of medical universities by type showed that the scores in the two areas of health information and education about the coronavirus were in good condition and none of the universities were in bad condition. Chi-square showed that the information status and news related to the coronavirus had a significantly positive relationship with the type of medical universities (χ2 = 10.343, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

The results of this study showed that type1 and type 2 and 62.5% of type 3 medical universities were in good condition in terms of total scores in the two areas of health information and education about coronavirus and none of the universities were in a bad situation. It is suggested that the website of medical universities can serve as a reliable and appropriate source of information not only for academics and students but also for the general public.
Carotid atherosclerosis in the first five years since rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis: a cross sectional study
Authors: Galarza-Delgado Dionicio Angel , Azpiri-Lopez Jose Ramon , Guajardo-Jauregui Natalia , Cardenas-de la Garza Jesus Alberto , Garza-Cisneros Andrea Nallely , Garcia-Heredia Alexis , Balderas-Palacios Mario Alberto , Colunga-Pedraza Iris Jazmin
Published: July 2023

Background

Systemic inflammation, documented before rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis, is associated with accelerated atherosclerosis. We aimed to compare the prevalence of carotid plaque (CP) in RA patients in the first five years since diagnosis and healthy controls, and to determine disease characteristics associated with the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis in RA patients.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. We recruited 60 RA patients in the first five years since diagnosis and 60 matched healthy controls. Carotid ultrasound was performed to detect the presence of CP and measure carotid-intima media thickness (cIMT). Subclinical atherosclerosis was considered as the presence of CP and/or increased cIMT. Distribution was evaluated with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Comparisons were made with Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test for qualitative variables and Student’s t or Mann-Whitney’s U test for quantitative variables. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

There were no differences in the demographic characteristics between RA patients and controls. The mean disease duration was 2.66 ± 1.39 years. A higher prevalence of CP (30.0% vs. 11.7%,p = 0.013), bilateral CP (18.3% vs. 3.3%,p = 0.008), increased cIMT (30.0% vs. 6.7%,p = 0.001), and subclinical atherosclerosis (53.3% vs. 18.3%,p = < 0.001) was found in RA patients. RA patients with subclinical atherosclerosis were older (56.70 years vs. 50.00 years,p = 0.002), presented a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia (53.1% vs. 14.3%,p = 0.002), and higher prevalence of classification in moderate-high disease activity category measured by DAS28-CRP (68.8% vs. 35.7%,p = 0.010). The latter variable persisted independently associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in the binary logistic regression (OR 6.11, 95% CI 1.51–24.70,p = 0.011).

Conclusions

In the first five years since diagnosis, higher prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis, including CP was found in RA patients. Carotid ultrasound should be considered part of the systematic CVR evaluation of RA at the time of diagnosis.
Incidental detection of acquired unilateral nasolacrimal duct obstruction on I-131 whole body scan following I-131 therapy for thyroid cancer: a case report
Authors: Ahmad Warda , Rubab Nayyar , Gillani Farkhanda , Afzal Muhammad Shahzad , Ahmad Barira , Ahmad Wajiha , Imran Muhammad Babar
Published: July 2023

Background

Radioactive iodine 131 (I-131) is used in the treatment of differentiated thyroid cancer after thyroidectomy; however, its accumulation in non-thyroidal regions may give false positive results on iodine whole body scan (WBS). Only a few cases of radioiodine uptake in the orbital region in patients with thyroid cancer have been reported, which could be due to metastasis or false positive causes resulting from contamination or inflammatory etiology.

Case presentation

We describe a case of 49-year-old male with history of papillary thyroid carcinoma. The follow-up I-131 whole body scan showed a focus of increased radiotracer uptake in the region of left orbit. Correlative single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT-CT) showed that uptake was due to stenosis of the left nasolacrimal duct causing obstructive symptoms on left side. Dacryoscintigraphy also demonstrated significant obstruction of left nasolacrimal system.

Conclusions

The nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a rare adverse event after I-131 therapy that can result in an accumulation of radioiodine on whole body scan, mimicking metastasis. The use of additional spot views and SPECT-CT images along with thyroglobulin levels can help physicians in clarifying the situation in these uncertain cases.
Modeling the rutting performance of asphalt pavements: a review
Authors: Deng Yong , Shi Xianming
Published: July 2023

Rutting is a typical distress of asphalt pavement related to material, structural, loading, and environmental conditions of the pavement. This work presents a thorough and targeted synthesis of literature on current predictive models for rutting development in asphalt pavement, including the mechanical model, empirical model, machine learning model, and their combinations. By introducing and comparing the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of different model types, we focused on suitable approaches that predict rutting given the available information in the corresponding studies. Furthermore, we conducted a practitioner survey to identify performance deterioration models used by various highway agencies for asphalt pavement and to capture insights and experiences of users on the existing models in terms of reliability, precision, input and output parameters, consideration of maintenance and rehabilitation history, implementation considerations, etc. This review sheds light on the developing trend of predictive models for rutting and other distresses of asphalt pavement.
Exploring the morphological and genetic diversity of Egyptian basil landraces (Ocimum sp.) for future breeding strategies
Authors: Abuhashem Yara S. , Khalil Hala B. , El-Tahawey Mohamed A. F. A. , Soliman Khaled A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Basil (Ocimum sp.) exhibits significant morphological and genetic diversity. This variation provides an opportunity to identify novel traits that can be used in breeding programs to improve the productivity, quality, and disease resistance of basil plants. The integration of morphological and genetic data for basil varieties can improve our understanding of biodiversity, conservation, and breeding programs.

Results

In 2019, we conducted a comprehensive investigation on 25 basil landraces collected from 12 Egyptian governorates to explore their morphological and genetic diversity. Morphological characterization revealed variability in plant vigor, flower color, cyme shape, and leaf shape, indicating distinct growth patterns and potential for specific applications. Productivity and biochemical evaluation demonstrated significant variation in yield and oil distillation, identifying top-performing landraces L5, L11, and L24 that can be used in breeding programs to optimize performance and reduce environmental impact. The genetic diversity of the landraces was investigated using 11 SCoT primers revealed high levels of genetic diversity among landraces, with a wide range of polymorphism variation. The phylogenetic analysis identified two distinct clades, providing valuable insights into genetic diversity and relationships between different landraces. An interesting observation was made in the study, whereby L6 and L13, collected from Fayoum and Port-Said, respectively, were found to be the closest landraces. Following closely were L7 and L14, which were also collected from the same governorates. These findings have significant implications for the conservation of these landraces, as they may have evolved from similar species.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the genetic diversity and relationships among 25 Egyptian basil landraces. Using SCoT markers, a high level of polymorphism was detected, indicating significant variation in the genetic makeup of the landraces. The study also revealed interesting observations regarding the relationships among the landraces, with some landraces appearing to have evolved from similar species. The phylogenetic analysis provided insights into the genetic relationships among the landraces, which can guide conservation efforts and breeding programs. Overall, this study provides valuable information for researchers, breeders, and farmers involved in the conservation, breeding, and utilization of basil genetic resources in Egypt.
Research on the mechanism of an adaptive device to deal with bridgehead jump
Authors: Cai Bingliang , Chen Deyi , Huang Shiping
Published: July 2023

This article aims to solve the problem of the vehicle bumping at bridgehead which caused by uneven settlement in the transition section of the road and bridge. Firstly, a new adaptive device was established. In addition, the mechanism of the device was revealed. Secondly, analytical calculations were performed for the hitch plate equipped with the adaptive device, the deflection equation was derived, and the analytical solution was compared with the numerical solution. Finally, the adaptive device was applied to the actual project, the elongation of the device was analyzed with the settlement of the hitch plate. The results show that the adaptive device can realize the smooth transition of the road-bridge connection section by self-adjustment. Thus, the bridge head jump can be avoided in the case of soil foundation settlement, overall settlement and slap slope. The analytical and numerical solutions of the maximum deflection at the end of the slab are 2.571 cm and 2.263 cm. The corresponding longitudinal slope change rates are 2.8‰ and 2.5‰. One year after the completion of the actual project, the elongation of the two devices is 1.63 cm and 1.97 cm, and the settlement of the end of the slap is 3.74 cm. The adaptive device can provide a reference for solving the problem of jumping traffic at the bridge head.
Association of Thyroid Hormone Medication Adherence With Risk of Dementia
Authors: Han Saemi , Jeong Seogsong , Choi Seulggie , Park Sun Jae , Kim Kyae Hyung , Lee Gyeongsil , Cho Yoosun , Son Joung Sik , Park Sang Min
Published: July 2023

Context

Recent studies suggest that hypothyroidism is a risk factor for dementia. Based on existing literature, it is unclear if treatment or compliance to treatment is associated with decreased dementia risk in hypothyroidism patients.

Objective

To determine the association between thyroid hormone medication adherence and risk of dementia.

Methods

A population-based cohort study following patients with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism until incidence of dementia, death, or December 31, 2020, whichever came earliest. The study comprised 41 554 older adults age 50 and above with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism between 2004 and 2008 who underwent health screening. Risk of dementia was evaluated using multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Among 5188 men (12.5%) and 36 366 (87.5%) women, 2120 cases of incident dementia were identified. After stratification of the participants according to the interquartile range of the medication possession ratio (MPR), the fourth quartile (highest adherence) showed a 14% lower risk of overall dementia compared with the first quartile (lowest adherence) (adjusted hazard ratio 0.86; 95% CI 0.76-0.97). No consistent association was observed between thyroid hormone medication adherence and vascular dementia. After a dichotomous stratification of the MPR, higher MPR (≥0.8) showed a lower risk of Alzheimer disease (adjusted hazard ratio 0.91; 95% CI 0.84-0.99) than lower MPR (<0.8).

Conclusion

Better adherence to thyroid hormone medication may be beneficial in preventing incident dementia, especially Alzheimer disease, in older adults with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism. Along with the resolution of hypothyroid symptoms and the reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, the reduction of dementia risk may be another potential benefit of thyroid hormone medication.
The Importance of Awaiting Biopsy Results in Solitary Pathological Proximal Femoral Fractures
Authors: Verspoor Floortje G. M. , Hannink Gerjon , Parry Michael , Jeys Lee , Stevenson Jonathan D.
Published: July 2023

Background

The optimal surgical treatment for patients presenting with (impending and complete) pathological proximal femoral fractures is predicated on prognosis. Guidelines recommend a preoperative biopsy to exclude sarcomas, however no evidence confirms a benefit.

Objective

This study aimed to describe the diagnostic accuracy, morbidity and sarcoma incidence of biopsy results in these patients.

Material and Methods

All patients (n = 153) presenting with pathological proximal femoral fractures between 2000 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients after inadvertent surgery (n = 25) were excluded. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the accuracy and morbidity of diagnostic biopsies.

Results

Of 112/128 patients who underwent biopsy, nine (8%) biopsies were unreliable either due to being inconclusive (n = 5) or because the diagnosis changed after resection (n = 4). Of impending fractures, 32% fractured following needle core biopsy. Median time from diagnosis to surgery was 30 days (interquartile range 21–46). The overall biopsy positive predictive value (PPV) to differentiate between sarcoma and non-sarcoma was 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.88–1.00). In patients with a previous malignancy (n = 24), biopsy (n = 23) identified the diagnosis in 83% (PPV 0.91, 95% CI 0.71–0.99), of whom five (24%) patients had a new diagnosis. In patients without a history of cancer (n = 61), final diagnosis included carcinomas (n = 24, 39.3%), sarcomas (n = 24, 39.3%), or hematological malignancies (n = 13, 21.3%). Biopsy (n = 58) correctly identified the diagnosis in 66% of patients (PPV 0.80, 95% CI 0.67–0.90).

Conclusion

This study confirms the importance of a preoperative biopsy in solitary pathological proximal femoral fractures due to the risk of sarcoma in patients with and without a history of cancer. However, biopsy delays the time to definite surgery, results can be inconclusive or false, and it risks completion of impending fractures.
GREENWASHING, UMA EXTERNALIDADE NEGATIVA DA SUSTENTABILIDADE?
Authors: ESTEVES CARLA M.S. , Ciccarino Irene Dobarrio Machado
Published: July 2023

Atualmente existe uma maior atenção na relação entre o que as empresas comunicam e de fato fazem, devido ao agravamento da crise climática e dos problemas socioambientais. O greenwashing consiste na desinformação disseminada para apresentar uma imagem pública ambientalmente favorável  e  está presente em diversas atividades. A literatura sobre o tema é extensa e crescente. Devido à fragmentação e multidisciplinaridade dessa literatura, este ensaio teórico tem o objetivo de esclarecer aspectos do greenwashing apresentando a teoria de maneira estruturada e relacionando-a com exemplos que ilustrem a prática.  Apresenta uma uma reflexão crítica e propõem novos caminhos de investigação. As definições do fenômeno enfatizam a relação entre intervenientes colocando as empresas como agentes e os consumidores como vítimas. Consideram o greenwashing como um produto de comunicação e publicidade, ao invés de enfatizar os processos que o produz.  Pouca atenção foi dedicada na descrição do greenwashing e sobre como combatê-lo. Mais estudos devem direcionar atenção aos processos desalinhados com estratégias sustentáveis e analisar como corrigir esse desalinhamento sem inibir ações afirmativas e limitar o processo de aprendizado, deve ser uma questão central na elaboração acadêmica e regulatória sobre o fenômeno.
Solar Drone to Map the Earth
Authors: Ford Jason
Published: July 2023

OS has high hopes for pseudo-satellite
Vivarail Plans Test for Hydrogen Train
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: July 2023

Move part of push to get emission-free engines on to rail network
Fears for Jobs after Nissan's X-Trail Move
Authors: Excell Jon
Published: July 2023

Company will produce model in Japan, not Sunderland
Low-Cost Smart Sensors will Boost Productivity
Authors: Knight Helen
Published: July 2023

AMRC's prototype device offers in-process condition monitoring to reduce machining stoppages.
Converging Technologies
Authors: Excell Mike
Published: July 2023

Machine tool giants celebrate market growth for traditional products, while keeping an eye on complementary AM developments.
Easy on the Ear
Authors: Fowler David
Published: July 2023

Ultrasound sensor aids diagnosis of middle-ear infection