bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genome sequence of the European chub, Squalius cephalus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Pitman Richard , Hänfling Bernd ,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual Squalius cephalus (the European chub; Chordata; Actinopteri; Cypriniformes; Cyprinidae). The genome sequence is 1,101.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 25 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.61 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Large Red Damselfly Pyrrhosoma nymphula (Sulzer, 1776)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Wawman Denise C. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Pyrrhosoma nymphula (the Large Red Damselfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Odonata; Coenagrionidae). The genome sequence is 2,117.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 14 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.78 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Barred Chestnut moth, Diarsia dahlii (Hübner, 1813)
Authors: Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Diarsia dahlii (the Barred Chestnut; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 683.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.36 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 13,177 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of Blair’s Shoulder-knot, Lithophane leautieri (Boisduval, 1829)
Authors: Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: July 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Lithophane leautieri (Blair’s Shoulder-knot; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 521.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,254 protein coding genes.
Organization of work to improve the common property of an apartment building
Authors: Akimov Vladimir , Komkov Vladimir , Timakhova Nadyezhda
Published: July 2024

The textbook provides information on ensuring the provision of services for organizing work on the improvement of the common property of an apartment building.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation.
For students of secondary specialized educational organizations studying in the specialties 08.02.11 “Management, operation and maintenance of an apartment building”, 08.02.01 “Construction and operation of buildings and structures”, for students of institutions of secondary vocational education and additional vocational education, as well as for employees and employees involved in the management of apartment buildings.
A case report: acute sinusitis turned into shockingly rapid sepsis at young male adult
Authors: Brzozowska Patrycja , Nowińska Bianka , Lissak Karina , Bińczyk Wiktoria , Dróżdż Olgierd , Siudek Bartosz , Wiśniewska Anna
Published: July 2024

Sinusitis is a disease of usually mild course - however, sometimes secondary diseases might develop such as pneumonia which might have moderate to severe course. Pneumonia is usually treated ambulatory, regardless some patients’ state worsens and they are in need of hospital treatment, sometimes even in Intensive Care Unit. In this article is presented a case of a patient with such history - a young adult with no medical history of chronic diseases, whose state worsened and required ICU treatment.
Creatine supplementation in sport and medicine - a review of recent reports
Authors: Jagodowski Piotr , Gawlik Łukasz , Szpyra Justyna , Banaszek Agnieszka
Published: July 2024

Introduction and objective
The role of creatine as a dietary supplement to enhance ergogenic performance in strength sports is well established and researched, both among professionals and amateurs. In this article, we will focus not only on analysing creatine supplementation as an agent used in sport, but also as a supplement that may find a medical application.
Review methods
A literature search of Google Scholar and PubMed medical databases from the last eight years (2016-2024) was performed.Articles were searched in English using the following keywords: Creatine, Supplementation, Sport, Athletes
Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge
The role of creatine in strength sports is firmly established. Recent reports present creatine as an agent with many other uses. Endurance sports, rehabilitation or injury prevention are just a few of the areas mentioned where creatine finds its use. In the medical sciences, it is of interest to fields such as neurology, psychiatry, cardiology, geriatrics or rheumatology. Although many misconceptions have grown up around creatine, one of the best confirming its safety may be the fact that there are reports of benefits for pregnant women and the foetus.
Summary
Research shows the extensive use of creatine in various sports and medical fields. The high safety profile and efficacy in resistance training has been confirmed and is now known to an increasing number of people, not only in competitive sport. New promising reports in many areas of medicine and sport are described in an increasing number of reports, with the need for further research, often using more widely available modern technologies.
LOS INCENDIOS Y SU MANEJO POR LAS AUTORIDADES EN LIMA COLONIAL.
Authors: Rivasplata Varillas Paula Ermila
Published: July 2024

Este artículo trata sobre los incendios acaecidos en Lima colonial y la gestión de las autoridades para controlarlos. Las actividades económicas, cotidianas y constructivas provocaban estos incendios. Sitios con riesgo a generarlos eran las panaderías, las fábricas y los depósitos a intramuros de salitre y pólvora. Hábitos vecinales de riesgo eran el uso de los techos de las viviendas como zonas de almacenamiento, el descuido en el uso de las velas y los fuegos artificiales en las festividades. En cuanto a la arquitectura lo que podía provocar incendios era el uso de la quincha (entramado de caña y barro), aunque protegiese de los terremotos. El virrey, el cabildo y, posteriormente, la intendencia de policía, trataron de ordenar las actuaciones a realizar ante los incendios, sobre todo en el siglo XVIII, como la disponibilidad de los instrumentos antiincendios, el uso del agua de las acequias y los avisos de emergencia a través del teñir de las campanas de las iglesias.
The Influence of Problem-based Differentiated Learning on Critical Thinking Skills in 5th-Grade Students at Muhammadiyah Suronatan Elementary School, Yogyakarta
Authors: Maryani Ika , Mawardi Edy
Published: July 2024

This research aims to determine the effect of problem-based differentiated learning on the critical thinking skills of 5th-grade students at Muhammadiyah Suronatan Elementary School, a private elementary school in Yogyakarta. The study is quantitative, involving a sample of 28 students from the experimental class and 28 students from the control class. Data was collected using observation sheets and pretest-posttest questions. The data analysis included descriptive analysis and inferential analysis, specifically data normality testing, homogeneity testing, and hypothesis testing. The results indicate a significant relationship between problem-based differentiated learning and critical thinking skills. The t-test results show a sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.00, which is less than 0.05, with an average student graduation rate of 86%. These results suggest that implementing problem-based differentiated learning can be an effective strategy for enhancing critical thinking skills among elementary school students. Consequently, educational institutions should consider integrating this approach into their curricula to foster better critical thinking skills in their students.
Polarization-resolved analysis of outer retinal bands: investigating ballistic and multiply scattered photons using full-field swept-source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Ahmed Shaiban , Son Taeyoon , Yao Xincheng
Published: July 2024

Precise interpretation of the anatomical origins of outer retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT) presents technical challenges owing to the delicate nature of the retina. To address this challenge, our study introduces a novel polarization-sensitive full-field swept-source OCT (FF-SS-OCT) that provides parallel-polarization and cross-polarization OCT measurements, predominantly capturing ballistically reflected photons and multiply scattered photons, respectively. Notably, parallel-polarization OCT unveils layer-like structures more effectively, including the inner plexiform layer (IPL) sub-layers, outer plexiform layer (OPL) sub-layers (in rod-dominant regions), and rod/cone outer segment (OS) tips, compared to cross-polarization OCT, where such sub-layers are not visible. Through a comparative analysis of parallel-polarization and cross-polarization OCT images of the outer retina, we discovered that the 2nd outer retinal OCT band results from contributions from both the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and the inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) junction. Similarly, the 3rd outer retinal OCT band appears to reflect contributions from both the interdigitation zone (IZ) and photoreceptor OS tips. This polarization-sensitive approach advances our understanding of the origins of outer retinal OCT signals and proposes potential new biomarkers for assessing retinal health and diseases.
Asynchronous optical sampling of on-chip terahertz devices for real-time sensing and imaging applications
Authors: Mosley Connor D. W. , Tucker Robyn , Nixon Joshua P. R. , Park SaeJune , Li Lianhe , Freeman Joshua R. , Wood Christopher D. , Linfield Edmund H. , Davies A. Giles , Cunningham John E.
Published: July 2024

We demonstrate that asynchronous optical sampling (ASOPS) can be used to measure the propagation of terahertz (THz) bandwidth pulses in a coplanar waveguide device with integrated photoconductive switches used for signal excitation and detection. We assess the performance of the ASOPS technique as a function of measurement duration, showing the ability to acquire full THz time-domain traces at rates up to 100 Hz. We observe a peak dynamic range of 40 dB for the shortest measurement duration of 10 ms, increasing to 88 dB with a measurement time of 500 s. Our work opens a route to real-time video-rate imaging via modalities using scanned THz waveguides, as well as real-time THz sensing of small volume analytes; we benchmark our on-chip ASOPS measurements against previously published simulations of scanning THz sensor devices, demonstrating sufficient dynamic range to underpin future video-rate THz spectroscopy measurements with these devices.
Symmetric second-harmonic generation in sub-wavelength periodically poled thin film lithium niobate
Authors: Yang Fengyan , Lu Juanjuan , Shen Mohan , Yang Guangcanlan , Tang Hong X.
Published: July 2024

Second-harmonic generation (SHG) extensively employs periodically poled nonlinear crystals through forward quasi-phase-matching to achieve efficient frequency conversion. As poling periods approach sub-micrometers, backward quasi-phase-matching has also been demonstrated, albeit by utilizing pulsed laser drives. The realization of symmetric second-harmonic generation, characterized by counterpropagating pumps, however, has remained elusive despite theoretical predictions. The main challenge lies in achieving strong nonlinear coupling with the poling period below half the wavelength of the second-harmonic light. The recent emergence of high-quality ferroelectric lithium niobate thin films provides an opportunity for achieving precise domain control at submicron dimensions. In this paper, we demonstrate reliable control of ferroelectric domains in a thin film lithium niobate waveguide with a poling period down to 370 nm, thereby realizing highly efficient continuous-wave pumped symmetric SHG. This demonstration not only validates the feasibility of achieving subwavelength periodic poling on waveguides but could also enable submicron ferrolectric domain structures to be leveraged in integrated photonics and nonlinear optics research.
Energy-flow-reversing dynamics in vortex beams: OAM-independent propagation and enhanced resilience: erratum
Authors: Yan Wenxiang , Gao Yuan , Yuan Zheng , Long Xian , Chen Zhaozhong , Ren Zhi-Cheng , Wang Xi-Lin , Ding Jianping , Wang Hui-Tian
Published: July 2024

An erratum is given to correct three typographical errors in Optica 11, 531 (2024).OPTIC82334-253610.1364/OPTICA.517474 The corrections do not impact the results and conclusions of the original paper.
Mutations in nucleotide metabolism genes bypass proteasome defects in png-1/NGLY1-deficient Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Yanagi Katherine S. , Jochim Briar , Kunjo Sheikh Omar , Breen Peter , Ruvkun Gary , Lehrbach Nicolas
Published: July 2024

The conserved SKN-1A/Nrf1 transcription factor regulates the expression of proteasome subunit genes and is essential for maintenance of adequate proteasome function in animal development, aging, and stress responses. Unusual among transcription factors, SKN-1A/Nrf1 is a glycoprotein synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). N-glycosylated SKN-1A/Nrf1 exits the ER and is deglycosylated in the cytosol by the PNG-1/NGLY1 peptide:N-glycanase. Deglycosylation edits the protein sequence of SKN-1A/Nrf1 by converting N-glycosylated asparagine residues to aspartate, which is necessary for SKN-1A/Nrf1 transcriptional activation of proteasome subunit genes. Homozygous loss-of-function mutations in the peptide:N-glycanase (NGLY1) gene cause NGLY1 deficiency, a congenital disorder of deglycosylation. There are no effective treatments for NGLY1 deficiency. Since SKN-1A/Nrf1 is a major client of NGLY1, the resulting proteasome deficit contributes to NGLY1 disease. We sought to identify targets for mitigation of proteasome dysfunction in NGLY1 deficiency that might indicate new avenues for treatment. We isolated mutations that suppress the sensitivity to proteasome inhibitors caused by inactivation of the NGLY1 ortholog PNG-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans. We identified multiple suppressor mutations affecting 3 conserved genes: rsks-1, tald-1, and ent-4. We show that the suppressors act through a SKN-1/Nrf-independent mechanism and confer proteostasis benefits consistent with amelioration of proteasome dysfunction. ent-4 encodes an intestinal nucleoside/nucleotide transporter, and we show that restriction of nucleotide availability is beneficial, whereas a nucleotide-rich diet exacerbates proteasome dysfunction in PNG-1/NGLY1-deficient C. elegans. Our findings suggest that dietary or pharmacological interventions altering nucleotide availability have the potential to mitigate proteasome insufficiency in NGLY1 deficiency and other diseases associated with proteasome dysfunction.
Modeling soybean growth: A mixed model approach
Authors: Delattre Maud , Toda Yusuke , Tressou Jessica , Iwata Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2024

The evaluation of plant and animal growth, separately for genetic and environmental effects, is necessary for genetic understanding and genetic improvement of environmental responses of plants and animals. We propose to extend an existing approach that combines nonlinear mixed-effects model (NLMEM) and the stochastic approximation of the Expectation-Maximization algorithm (SAEM) to analyze genetic and environmental effects on plant growth. These tools are widely used in many fields but very rarely in plant biology. During model formulation, a nonlinear function describes the shape of growth, and random effects describe genetic and environmental effects and their variability. Genetic relationships among the varieties were also integrated into the model using a genetic relationship matrix. The SAEM algorithm was chosen as an efficient alternative to MCMC methods, which are more commonly used in the domain. It was implemented to infer the expected growth patterns in the analyzed population and the expected curves for each variety through a maximum-likelihood and a maximum-a-posteriori approaches, respectively. The obtained estimates can be used to predict the growth curves for each variety. We illustrate the strengths of the proposed approach using simulated data and soybean plant growth data obtained from a soybean cultivation experiment conducted at the Arid Land Research Center, Tottori University. In this experiment, plant height was measured daily using drones, and the growth was monitored for approximately 200 soybean cultivars for which whole-genome sequence data were available. The NLMEM approach improved our understanding of the determinants of soybean growth and can be successfully used for the genomic prediction of growth pattern characteristics.
Dynamic evolution of the heterochromatin sensing histone demethylase IBM1
Authors: Zhang Yinwen , Jang Hosung , Luo Ziliang , Dong Yinxin , Xu Yangyang , Kantamneni Yamini , Schmitz Robert J.
Published: July 2024

Heterochromatin is critical for maintaining genome stability, especially in flowering plants, where it relies on a feedback loop involving the H3K9 methyltransferase, KRYPTONITE (KYP), and the DNA methyltransferase CHROMOMETHYLASE3 (CMT3). The H3K9 demethylase INCREASED IN BONSAI METHYLATION 1 (IBM1) counteracts the detrimental consequences of KYP-CMT3 activity in transcribed genes. IBM1 expression in Arabidopsis is uniquely regulated by methylation of the 7th intron, allowing it to monitor global H3K9me2 levels. We show the methylated intron is prevalent across flowering plants and its underlying sequence exhibits dynamic evolution. We also find extensive genetic and expression variations in KYP, CMT3, and IBM1 across flowering plants. We identify Arabidopsis accessions resembling weak ibm1 mutants and Brassicaceae species with reduced IBM1 expression or deletions. Evolution towards reduced IBM1 activity in some flowering plants could explain the frequent natural occurrence of diminished or lost CMT3 activity and loss of gene body DNA methylation, as cmt3 mutants in A. thaliana mitigate the deleterious effects of IBM1.
Observation of non-recommended (harmful) intrapartum practices among obstetric care providers in public hospitals in southern Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Dinagde Dagne Deresa , Marami Shambel Negesa , Feyisa Gizu Tola , Afework Hana Tadesse , Dabe Nikodimos Eshetu , Wada Habtamu Wana , Gultie Teklemariam
Published: July 2024

The majority of developing countries do not follow the WHO’s emphasis on replacing harmful and ineffective traditional practices with evidence-based clinical treatment. In these countries, harmful or ineffective practices are routinely used as part of routine care during labor and delivery, while beneficial procedures are not used for the majority of laboring mothers. However, it is critical to use evidence-based practices while giving therapy since they improve care quality, save costs, increase patient and family happiness, and promote professional progress. To assess the magnitude of non-recommended (harmful) intrapartum practices among obstetric care providers in public hospitals in southern Ethiopia, 2023. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 30, 2023, to February 30, 2023, in public hospitals in the Gamo and Gofa zones. An observational checklist and a self-administered questionnaire were used to gather data. Using odds ratio of 95% C, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was used to discover factors related with the outcome variable during data analysis using SPSS version 27. A P-value of less than 0.05 and I were regarded as statistically significant. The magnitude of harmful intrapartum practice was 60.6% (95% CI: 53.25–68.5). Lack of internet access (AOR = 10.1, 95% CI: 4.93–21.1), a few years of work experience (AOR = 6.21, 95% CI: 3.1–12.5), and not being trained on evidence-based intrapartum practices (AOR = 4.01, 95% CI: 1.94–7.95) were statistically significant with harmful intrapartum practices. Evidence-based practice can be improved by promptly providing obstetric care providers with ongoing training and standards for intrapartum care.
Plasmodium vivax genomic surveillance in the Peruvian Amazon with Pv AmpliSeq assay
Authors: Kattenberg Johanna Helena , Cabrera-Sosa Luis , Figueroa-Ildefonso Erick , Mutsaers Mathijs , Monsieurs Pieter , Guetens Pieter , Infante Berónica , Delgado-Ratto Christopher , Gamboa Dionicia , Rosanas-Urgell Anna
Published: July 2024

Background

Plasmodium vivax is the most predominant malaria species in Latin America, constituting 71.5% of malaria cases in 2021. With several countries aiming for malaria elimination, it is crucial to prioritize effectiveness of national control programs by optimizing the utilization of available resources and strategically implementing necessary changes. To support this, there is a need for innovative approaches such as genomic surveillance tools that can investigate changes in transmission intensity, imported cases and sources of reintroduction, and can detect molecular markers associated with drug resistance.

Methodology/Principal findings

Here, we apply a modified highly-multiplexed deep sequencing assay: Pv AmpliSeq v2 Peru. The tool targets a newly developed 41-SNP Peru barcode for parasite population analysis within Peru, the 33-SNP vivaxGEN-geo panel for country-level classification, and 11 putative drug resistance genes. It was applied to 230 samples from the Peruvian Amazon (2007–2020), generating baseline surveillance data. We observed a heterogenous P. vivax population with high diversity and gene flow in peri-urban areas of Maynas province (Loreto region) with a temporal drift using all SNPs detected by the assay (nSNP = 2909). In comparison, in an indigenous isolated area, the parasite population was genetically differentiated (FST = 0.07–0.09) with moderate diversity and high relatedness between isolates in the community. In a remote border community, a clonal P. vivax cluster was identified, with distinct haplotypes in drug resistant genes and ama1, more similar to Brazilian isolates, likely representing an introduction of P. vivax from Brazil at that time. To test its applicability for Latin America, we evaluated the SNP Peru barcode in P. vivax genomes from the region and demonstrated the capacity to capture local population clustering at within-country level.

Conclusions/Significance

Together this data shows that P. vivax transmission is heterogeneous in different settings within the Peruvian Amazon. Genetic analysis is a key component for regional malaria control, offering valuable insights that should be incorporated into routine surveillance.
Determinants of choosing in-kind benefits over cash: A study among Nepalese farmers
Authors: Khanal Binod , Ghimire Shuresh , Wagle Pramila
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the determinants of choosing in-kind benefits over cash transfers when their respective values are equivalent. Employing a rigorous two-step experiment with a large sample size (n = 962), we offer real monetary rewards to respondents. In the first step, we asked whether the respondents would choose NRs. 1,000 (≈ US dollars 9) in cash or in-kind benefit that is worth NRs. 1,000. We observe that approximately two-thirds of participants opt for in-kind benefits of equal value to the proposed cash transfer. In analyzing the factors influencing this preference, our results indicate that households with higher non-farm incomes are less likely to choose in-kind benefits. Increasing the non-farm income by NRs. 100,000 respondents are 0.2% less likely to choose in-kind benefits. Furthermore, households with limited savings demonstrate a higher preference toward in-kind benefits over cash transfers. Not having NRs. 25,000 savings would make respondents 10% more likely to choose in-kind benefits. Previously receiving in-kind benefits also increase the likelihood of choosing them over cash. Additionally, households with restricted market access are more inclined to opt for in-kind benefits. Notably, in the second step of the experiment which involves only those who chose cash in the first step of the experiment, only 48% of respondents would opt for in-kind benefits even when values were higher by NRs. 150 to 450. This research sheds light on the factors affecting the decision-making process between in-kind benefits and cash transfers and provides insights into the design of effective social welfare policies. More specifically, findings from this study suggest tailored approaches for assisting people could be followed based on their income level and accessibility to the market.
Computationally intelligent real-time security surveillance system in the education sector using deep learning
Authors: Abid Muhammad Mobeen , Mahmood Toqeer , Ashraf Rahan , Faisal C. M. Nadeem , Ahmad Haseeb , Niaz Awais Amir
Published: July 2024

Real-time security surveillance and identity matching using face detection and recognition are central research areas within computer vision. The classical facial detection techniques include Haar-like, MTCNN, AdaBoost, and others. These techniques employ template matching and geometric facial features for detecting faces, striving for a balance between detection time and accuracy. To address this issue, the current research presents an enhanced FaceNet network. The RetinaFace is employed to perform expeditious face detection and alignment. Subsequently, FaceNet, with an improved loss function is used to achieve face verification and recognition with high accuracy. The presented work involves a comparative evaluation of the proposed network framework against both traditional and deep learning techniques in terms of face detection and recognition performance. The experimental findings demonstrate that an enhanced FaceNet can successfully meet the real-time facial recognition requirements, and the accuracy of face recognition is 99.86% which fulfills the actual requirement. Consequently, the proposed solution holds significant potential for applications in face detection and recognition within the education sector for real-time security surveillance.
Gender inequalities of psychosomatic complaints at work vary by occupational groups of white- and blue-collar and level of skill: A cross sectional study
Authors: Grasshoff Julia , Safieddine Batoul , Sperlich Stefanie , Beller Johannes
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous research has shown that women report more psychosomatic complaints at work than men. However, knowledge about gender inequalities in psychosomatic complaints within occupational groups and specific symptoms is lacking. This study aims to compare gender inequalities in psychosomatic complaints in the occupational groups of white-collar high-skilled, white-collar low-skilled, blue-collar high-skilled and blue-collar low-skilled workers.

Methods

The study implemented a cross sectional design using data from the nationwide German Employment Survey of the Working Population on Qualification and Working Conditions conducted in 2017/ 2018. Psychosomatic complaints were operationalised by the following symptoms: headache, insomnia, tiredness, irritability, dejection, physical fatigue, and emotional fatigue. N = 20012 working German-speaking respondents were sampled. After excluding persons with missing data on the study variables, the sample consisted of N = 16359 persons.

Results

Women reported significantly more psychosomatic complaints than men in the subgroups of white-collar high-skilled and white-collar low-skilled (ps < .05), inequalities in blue-collar high-skilled and blue-collar low-skilled only being numerical. Regarding specific symptoms, women reported more psychosomatic complaints then men in the subgroups of white-collar high-skilled workers, white-collar low-skilled workers, and blue-collar low-skilled workers. Headaches, physical fatigue, and emotional fatigue were the most common symptoms. The white-collar high-skilled subgroup had the highest number of symptoms with significant gender inequalities. These effects remained after controlling for age, working hours, parental status and marital status.

Conclusions

Gender inequalities in psychosomatic complaints are ubiquitous but vary in their frequency by occupational subgroup and specific psychosomatic complaint. Women in white-collar high-skilled jobs in particular report to be burdened more often by many specific psychosomatic symptoms. Future studies should investigate the reasons for these occupational inequalities and develop interventions to reduce health inequalities in the workplace.
Lipid levels and low back pain risk: A two-sample mendelian randomization study
Authors: Luo Jinfeng , Xing Yuling , Li Fangzhou
Published: July 2024

Background

Previous observational studies have shown controversial results about the relationship between lipid levels and low back pain (LBP). Herein, we aimed to explore the potential causal relationship between lipid levels and LBP by using the mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

In this two-sample MR study, data were extracted from publicly available MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit database. Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of lipid levels [high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG)] and two SNPs of LBP risk (LBP and back pain) were retrieved and used as genetic instrumental variables. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, robust adjusted profile score (MR-RAPS), and MR-PRESSO were used to examine the potential causal association between lipid levels and LBP.

Results

IVW (fixed effect) estimation indicated that increased HDL-C level was negatively related to the odds of LBP for European populations. [odds ratio (OR) = 0.923, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.857–0.993, P = 0.0323]. Similar results were also found in IVW (random effect) (OR = 0.923, 95% CI: 0.866–0.983, P = 0.0134), MR-Egger (OR = 0.858, 95%CI: 0.757–0.973, P = 0.0177), MR-RAPS (OR = 0.932, 95%CI: 0.871–0.997, P = 0.0419), and MR-PRESSO (OR = 0.933, 95%CI: 0.880–0.989, P = 0.0198) analyses. Whereas no causal link was observed between LDL-C/TG and LBP risk (P>0.05).

Conclusion

This two-sample MR study demonstrated a causal relationship between lipid levels and LBP risk. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate the causal association and specific underlying mechanisms by which lipid levels contribute to the development of LBP.
Sex and age differences in inflammatory bowel disease patients; a nationwide study based on Iranian Registry of Crohn’s and Colitis (IRCC)
Authors: Khanmohammadi Shaghayegh , Sheidaei Ali , Alatab Sudabeh , Tabatabaei-Malazy Ozra , Vahedi Homayoon , Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz , Fakheri Hafez , Sheikhesmaeili Farshad , Sadeghi Anahita , Sima Ali Reza , Anushiravan Amir , Yazdanbod Abbas , Moosavy Seyed Hamid , Maleki Iradj , Vosooghinia Hassan , Malekzadeh Masoud , Malekzadeh Reza
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite the rising prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), age and sex differences in its outcomes remain understudied. We investigated age and sex differences in IBD patients using a nationwide study in Iran, the Iranian Registry of Crohn’s and Colitis (IRCC).

Methods

The IRCC is a national registry that gathered information on adult IBD patients since 2017. The collected data included demographic information, medication history, disease activity, comorbidities, diagnosis age, prognosis, the extent of ulcerative colitis (UC), Crohn’s disease (CD) location, and extraintestinal manifestations. The statistical methods included the independent Student’s t-test, Chi-square test, and binary logistic regression, using R version 4.2.2.

Results

Among the 9,392 IBD patients, 7,496 (3,600 females) and 1,896 (808 females) had UC and CD, respectively. Sex difference showed higher odds of active disease in the past six months in male CD patients (OR 1.24 [95%CI 1.03, 1.49]) vs. females, but in male UC patients, the OR was 0.85 [0.78, 0.93]. Severe disease was less likely in CD patients aged 19–59 and >60 vs. <18. Similarly, UC patients <18 had lower odds of severe disease vs. those aged 19–59 and >60.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the importance of understanding age and sex differences in IBD outcomes. These findings contribute to the ongoing global discussion on IBD management and facilitate the development of targeted interventions and personalized care.
An examination of the mechanisms driving the therapeutic effects of an AAV expressing a soluble variant of VEGF receptor-1
Authors: Moon Seo Yun , Kim Hee Jong , Kim Jin Kwon , Kim Jin , Choi Jun-Sub , Won So-Yoon , Park Keerang , Lee Steven Hyun Seung
Published: July 2024

In previous animal model studies, we demonstrated the potential of rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1, which encodes a truncated variant of the alternatively spliced soluble version of VEGF receptor-1 (VEGFR1), as a human gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Here, we elucidate in vitro some of the mechanisms by which rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 exerts its therapeutic effects. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were infected with rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 or a control virus vector in the presence of members of the VEGF family to identify potential binding partners via ELISA, which showed that VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) are all ligands of its transgene product. In order to determine the effects of rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 on cell proliferation and permeability, processes that are important to the progression AMD and DR, HUVECs were infected with the therapeutic virus vector under the stimulation of VEGF-A, the major driver of the neovascularization that characterizes the forms of these conditions most associated with vision loss. rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 treatment, as a result, markedly reduced the extent to which these processes occurred, with the latter determined by measuring zonula occludens 1 expression. Finally, the human microglial HMC3 cell line was used to show the effects of the therapeutic virus vector upon inflammatory processes, another major contributor to angiogenic eye disease pathophysiology, with rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 reducing therein the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6. Combined with our previously published in vivo data, the in vitro activity of the expressed transgene here further demonstrates the great promise of rAAV2-sVEGFRv-1 as a potential human gene therapeutic for addressing angiogenic ocular conditions.
Clinical and economic impact of medication administration errors among neonates in neonatal intensive care units
Authors: Henry Basil Josephine , Mohd Tahir Nurul Ain , Menon Premakumar Chandini , Mhd Ali Adliah , Seman Zamtira , Ishak Shareena , See Kwee Ching , Mohamed Maslina , Lee Khai Yin , Ibrahim Nazedah Ain , Jegatheesan Kokila Vani , Mohamed Shah Noraida
Published: July 2024

Despite efforts in improving medication safety, medication administration errors are still common, resulting in significant clinical and economic impact. Studies conducted using a valid and reliable tool to assess clinical impact are lacking, and to the best of our knowledge, studies evaluating the economic impact of medication administration errors among neonates are not yet available. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the potential clinical and economic impact of medication administration errors in neonatal intensive care units and identify the factors associated with these errors. A national level, multi centre, prospective direct observational study was conducted in the neonatal intensive care units of five Malaysian public hospitals. The nurses preparing and administering the medications were directly observed. After the data were collected, two clinical pharmacists conducted independent assessments to identify errors. An expert panel of healthcare professionals assessed each medication administration error for its potential clinical and economic outcome. A validated visual analogue scale was used to ascertain the potential clinical outcome. The mean severity index for each error was subsequently calculated. The potential economic impact of each error was determined by averaging each expert’s input. Multinomial logistic regression and multiple linear regression were used to identify factors associated with the severity and cost of the errors, respectively. A total of 1,018 out of 1,288 (79.0%) errors were found to be potentially moderate in severity, while only 30 (2.3%) were found to be potentially severe. The potential economic impact was estimated at USD 27,452.10. Factors significantly associated with severe medication administration errors were the medications administered intravenously, the presence of high-alert medications, unavailability of a protocol, and younger neonates. Moreover, factors significantly associated with moderately severe errors were intravenous medication administration, younger neonates, and an increased number of medications administered. In the multiple linear regression analysis, the independent variables found to be significantly associated with cost were the intravenous route of administration and the use of high-alert medications. In conclusion, medication administration errors were judged to be mainly moderate in severity costing USD 14.04 (2.22–22.53) per error. This study revealed important insights and highlights the need to implement effective error reducing strategies to improve patient safety among neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Prescribing trends of glaucoma medication in Korea from 2007 to 2020: A nationwide population-based study
Authors: Na Kyeong Ik , Lee Won June , Choi Youn Joo , Park Sung Pyo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Investigating long-term trends in glaucoma medication.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with glaucoma and prescribed glaucoma eye drops between 2007 and 2020 in Korea’s Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database participated in this study. A weight was assigned to each prescription using the reciprocal of the total number of prescriptions received by the individual in that year. The number of patients who received each type of glaucoma eye drop prescription was calculated by summing the weights for each year.

Results

During the study period, prostaglandin analog eye drop monotherapy was the most frequently given type of glaucoma eye drop prescription. Until 2008, the second most frequently given type of glaucoma eye drop prescription was beta blocker eye drop monotherapy; thereafter, it changed to carbonic anhydrase inhibitor/beta blocker fixed-combination eye drop monotherapy. The prescription proportion of single-ingredient glaucoma eye drops decreased (-1.290%/year, P < 0.001), whereas that of fixed-combination glaucoma eye drops increased (1.291%/year, P < 0.001). The number of glaucoma eye drops prescribed per patient remained constant (-0.00030/year, P = 0.167) with an average of 1.302, while the number of active ingredients prescribed per patient increased (0.01737/year, P < 0.001) from 1.659 in 2007 to 1.896 in 2020.

Conclusion

Over 14 years, there was no change in the number of glaucoma eye drops prescribed to individual patients in Korea. However, the number of active ingredients prescribed increased owing to the increased prescription of fixed-combination eye drops. The current trends in glaucoma medication are expected to help establish future treatment strategies.
Retention rate of vaccination card and its associated factors among vaccinated children aged 12─23 months in Ethiopia: Multilevel logistic regression analysis
Authors: Tareke Abiyu Abadi , Tewabe Ayelign Atikaw , Yewodiaw Thomas Kidanemariam , Shiferaw Enyew Woretaw , Eshetu Habitu Birhan , Enyew Ermias Bekele
Published: July 2024

Background

Vaccine card is a crucial tool for gauging vaccine coverage. It is imperative to hold these health cards to have well-fitted data which are crucial in reaching data-driven decisions in the era of immunization surveillance and monitoring processes. However, there is limited knowledge about the retention rate of vaccination card and its associated factors in Ethiopia.

Objective

This research aimed to assess the retention rate and associated factors of vaccination card in Ethiopia, using data from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic health survey.

Methods

This study included a total of 1304 (weighted) children aged 12─23 months who were vaccinated and provided with a vaccination card. We used a multilevel logistic regression model to analyze factors associated with vaccination card retention. We considered factors to be statistically significant if they had a p-value of less than 0.05 with a respective 95% confidence interval.

Result

Among the cohort of 1,304 immunized children, it was observed that 684, representing 52.5% (95% CI: 49.7%─55.2%), were able to present their respective vaccination card during the interview time. According to the results of the multilevel logistic analysis, there is a considerable reduction in the rate of vaccination card retention by 65% (adjusted OR 0.35, 95% CI: 0.19─0.65) and 37% (adjusted OR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.4─0.91) for individuals who are rural residents and those who are fully vaccinated, respectively. Furthermore, it is noteworthy to mention that individuals originating from socio-economic backgrounds with low poverty levels exhibit a 59% increase in vaccination card possession (adjusted OR 1.59, 95% CI: 1.11─2.50).

Conclusion

This study revealed a low rate of holding vaccination cards. Place of residency, wealth status, and vaccination status were factors that contributed to the change in the vaccination card retention rate. It is advisable to customize the interventional strategy by taking into account the individual’s residency, immunization status, and degree of poverty within the community, to achieve a favorable rate of holding vaccination cards.
Biodiversity patterns of epipelagic copepods in the South Pacific Ocean: Strengths and limitations of current data bases
Authors: Pérez-Aragón Manuela , Escribano Ruben , Rivera Reinaldo , Hidalgo Pamela
Published: July 2024

Basin-scale patterns of biodiversity for zooplankton in the ocean may provide valuable insights for understanding the impact of climate change and global warming on the marine ecosystem. However, studies on this topic remain scarce or unavailable in vast regions of the world ocean, particularly in large regions where the amount and quality of available data are limited. In this study, we used a 27-year (1993–2019) database on species occurrence of planktonic copepods in the South Pacific, along with associated oceanographic variables, to examine their spatial patterns of biodiversity in the upper 200 m of the ocean. The aim of this study was to identify ecological regions and the environmental predictors explaining such patterns. It was found that hot and cold spots of diversity, and distinctive species assemblages were linked to major ocean currents and large regions over the basin, with increasing species richness over the subtropical areas on the East and West sides of the South Pacific. While applying the spatial models, we showed that the best environmental predictors for diversity and species composition were temperature, salinity, chlorophyll-a concentration, oxygen concentration, and the residual autocorrelation. Nonetheless, the observed spatial patterns and derived environmental effects were found to be strongly influenced by sampling coverage over space and time, revealing a highly under-sampled basin. Our findings provide an assessment of copepods diversity patterns and their potential drivers for the South Pacific Ocean, but they also stress the need for strengthening the data bases of planktonic organisms, as they can act as suitable indicators of ecosystem response to climate change at basin scale.
The polygenic implication of clopidogrel responsiveness: Insights from platelet reactivity analysis and next-generation sequencing
Authors: Echeverría Omar , Angulo-Aguado Mariana , Vela Ricardo , Calderón-Ospina Carlos , Parra Katherine , Contreras Nora , Morel Adrien , Cabrera Rodrigo , Restrepo Carlos , Ramírez-Santana Carolina , Ortega-Recalde Oscar , Rojas-Quintana Manuel Eduardo , Murcia Luisa , Gaviria-Sabogal Cristian Camilo , Valero Nattaly , Fonseca-Mendoza Dora Janeth
Published: July 2024

Clopidogrel is widely used worldwide as an antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary disease. Genetic factors influence interindividual variability in response. Some studies have explored the polygenic contributions in the drug response, generating pharmacogenomic risk scores (PgxPRS). Importantly, these factors are less explored in underrepresented populations, such as Latin-American countries. Identifying patients at risk of high-on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) is highly valuable in translational medicine. In this study we used a custom next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel composed of 91 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 28 genes related to clopidogrel metabolism, to analyze 70 patients with platelet reactivity values, assessed through closure time (CT). Our results demonstrated the association of SNPs with HTPR and non-HTPR, revealing the strongest associations with rs2286823 (OR: 5,0; 95% CI: 1,02–24,48; p: 0,03), rs2032582 (OR: 4,41; 95% CI: 1,20–16,12; p: 0,019), and rs1045642 (OR: 3,38; 95% CI: 0,96–11,9; p: 0,05). Bivariate regression analysis demonstrated the significant association of several SNPs with the CT value, a “surrogate” biomarker of clopidogrel response. Exploratory results from the LASSO regression model showed a high discriminatory capacity between HTPR and non-HTPR patients (AUC: 0,955), and the generated PgxPRS demonstrated a significant negative association between the risk score, CT value, and the condition of HTPR and non-HTPR. To our knowledge, our study addresses for the first time the analysis of the polygenic contribution in platelet reactivity using NGS and establishes PgxPRS derived from the LASSO model. Our results demonstrate the polygenic implication of clopidogrel response and offer insights applicable to the translational medicine of antiplatelet therapy in an understudied population.