bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of CD8+TILs co-expressing granzyme A and interferon-γ with colon cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Yang Jiayi , Ding Xinyi , Fang Zhang , Wu Shaoxian , Yuan Maoling , Chen Rongzhang , Xu Qinlan , Gao Xinran , Wu Haoyu , Chen Lujun , Zheng Xiao , Jiang Jingting
Published: July 2024

CD8+T cells secreting granzyme A (GZMA) can induce pyroptosis in tumor cells by effectively cleaving gasdermin B (GSDMB), which is stimulated by interferon-γ (IFN-γ). However, the interaction between GZMA-expressing CD8+T cells and GSDMB-expressing tumor cells in colon cancer remains poorly understood. Our research employed multi-color immunohistochemistry (mIHC) staining and integrated clinical data to explore the spatial distribution and clinical relevance of GZMA- and IFN-γ-expressing CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), as well as GSDMB-expressing CK+ cells, within the tumor microenvironment (TME) of human colon cancer samples. Additionally, we utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data to examine the functional dynamics and interactions among these cell populations. scRNA-seq analysis of colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues revealed that CD8+TILs co-expressed GZMA and IFN-γ, but not other cell types. Our mIHC staining results indicated that a significant reduction in the infiltration of GZMA+IFN-γ+CD8+TILs in colon cancer patients (P < 0.01). Functional analysis results indicated that GZMA+IFN-γ+CD8+TILs demonstrated enhanced activation and effector functions compared to other CD8+TIL subsets. Furthermore, GSDMB-expressing CK+ cells exhibited augmented immunogenicity. Correlation analysis highlighted a positive association between GSDMB+CK+ cells and GZMA+IFN-γ+CD8+TILs (r = 0.221, P = 0.033). Analysis of cell-cell interactions further showed that these interactions were mediated by IFN-γ and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), the co-stimulatory molecule ICOS, and immune checkpoint molecules TIGIT and TIM-3. These findings suggested that GZMA+IFN-γ+CD8+TILs modulating GSDMB-expressing tumor cells, significantly impacted the immune microenvironment and patients’ prognosis in colon cancer. By elucidating these mechanisms, our present study aims to provide novel insights for the advancement of immunotherapeutic strategies in colon cancer.
Effect of MDR1 C3435T and CYP2C19 genetic polymorphisms on the outcome of Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment in children with gastritis and peptic ulcer, Vietnam
Authors: Thuy Loan Le Thi , Nguyen Liem Thanh , Vu Hoang Anh , Nguyen Nghia An , Nguyen Tuan Anh
Published: July 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy based on antimicrobial susceptibility in Vietnamese children currently get low efficiency. There are causes of treatment failure, among host genetic factors namely MDR1 C3435T and CYP2C19 affect the absorption and metabolism of proton pump inhibitors - a crucial component of eradication therapy. The study aimed to investigate the effect of MDR1 C3435T and CYP2C19 genetic polymorphisms on the cure rate.

Methods

207 pediatric patients with gastritis and peptic ulcer infecting Helicobacter pylori completed the eradication therapy based on antimicrobial susceptibility with proton pump inhibitor esomeprazole. Eradication efficacy was assessed after at least 4 weeks by the urease breath test. MDR1 C3435T genetic polymorphism and CYP2C19 genotype were determined using a sequencing method based on Sanger’s principle.

Results

Among 207 children recruited in this study, the ratio of CYP2C19 EM, IM, and PM phenotypes was 40.1%, 46.4%, and 16.9%, respectively. The patient with MDR1 3435 C/C polymorphism accounted for 43.0%, MDR1 3435 C/T was 40.1%, and MDR1 3435T/T was 16.9%. The cure rate of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with CYP2C19 EM genotype was 78.3%; 83.3% of those with the IM genotype, and PM genotype was 96,4% (p = 0.07). Successful eradication rates for Helicobacter pylori were 85.4%, 86.7%, and 68.6% in patients with the MDR1 3435 C/C, C/T, and T/T, respectively (p = 0.02). Multiple logistic regression analysis found that MDR1 C3435T genetic polymorphisms of patients were significant independent risk factors for treatment failure, and CYP2C19 genotype did not affect Helicobacter pylori eradication.

Conclusions

The Helicobacter pylori eradication rates by regimens based on antibiotic susceptibility and esomeprazole were not significantly different between the CYP2C19 phenotypes. The MDR1 C3435T polymorphism is one of the factors impacting Helicobacter pylori eradication results in children.
Growth monitoring and promotion service utilization and its associated factors among mothers of children under two years in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Simachew Yilkal , Abebe Arsema , Yoseph Amanuel , Tsegaye Berhan , Asnake Gedion , Ali Hawa Hassen , Fikre Rekiku
Published: July 2024

Background

Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) is a nutritional intervention designed to identify and address growth faltering before a child’s nutritional status deteriorates into severe malnutrition. Despite GMP being recognized as a priority in Ethiopia’s national nutrition program, there is no national aggregated figure to show the extent of GMP service utilization. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess GMP service utilization and associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Hinari, EMBASE, Scopus, and grey literature sources like Google Scholar, WorldCat, and Institutional repository. The Joanna Briggs Institution (JBI) quality assessment tool was used to appraise the quality of the articles, and articles scoring > 50% were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence and odds ratio of associated factors with 95%CI was computed using STATA version 16. A random-effect model was employed to estimate the effect size, and I-squared statistics and Egger’s test were used to assess heterogeneity and identify potential publication bias, respectively. Subgroup analysis was conducted with publication year, sample size, and region to identify the source of heterogeneity.

Results

Nine studies with 4,768 study participants were included in this meta-analysis. The overall pooled utilization of GMP service among children under two years of age in Ethiopia was 23.21% (95% CI: 16.02, 30.41, I2 = 97.27% & P = 0.0001). Mothers who received counselling on GMP service (OR = 3.16 (95%CI: 2.49-4.00), parents who use family health card (FHC) (OR = 3.29 (95%CI: 1.49–7.28), and mother who use postnatal care (OR = 3.93 (95%CI: 2.40–6.42), and Anti natal care (OR = 3.15 (95%CI: 1.29–7.69) were the factors associated with GMP service utilization among children under two years of age.

Conclusions

The utilization of GMP services among children under the age of two in Ethiopia remains inadequate. Therefore, it is crucial to provide health education and counselling focusing on GMP to the mothers/caregivers of the child and encourage utilization of FHC. In addition, integrating GMP with other maternal health services should be promoted.
Dealing with the challenges of the pandemic – results of a population-based survey during the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic contrasting benefits and burden
Authors: Geprägs Alina , Bürgin David , Fegert Jörg M. , Brähler Elmar , Clemens Vera
Published: July 2024

Background

The pandemic and the associated consequences have been ongoing stressors with severe impacts on the population and particularly on families. Research focusing on groups dealing well with the challenges of the pandemic is scarce. Here, we aimed to identify groups being well-adjusted during the pandemic and associated predictors.

Methods

A representative sample of the German population (N = 2,515, 51.6% women, 50.09 years), and a subsample of persons with children or adolescents under the age of 18 (N = 453, 60.3% women, 40.08 years) was assessed from July to October 2021. As huge differences in coping with the pandemic are seen, cluster analysis was performed.

Results

Persons in the “well-adjusted cluster” were characterized by higher quality of life, better coping with the pandemic and lower burden of the pandemic. The family subsample well-adjusted cluster was characterized by lower pandemic-associated burden, lower parental stress compared to before the pandemic and a better relationship with the child. Fewer mental health symptoms and less pandemic-associated negative impact on career predicted membership of the well-adjusted cluster in both samples. An interaction between mental health symptoms and the negative impact of COVID-19 on the career was found.

Conclusions

Our results underscore the importance of mental health and work-related factors for coping with the pandemic.
Resilience and social support as protective factors against suicidal ideation among tertiary students during COVID-19: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Selak Špela , Crnkovič Nuša , Šorgo Andrej , Gabrovec Branko , Cesar Katarina , Žmavc Mark
Published: July 2024

Background

Suicidal ideation is a depression symptom which represents a key (cognitive) component of suicidality and plays an important role in suicide risk detection, intervention, and prevention. Despite existing research showing the importance of certain factors of depression symptoms and suicidal ideation, less is known about the interaction between the various risk and protective factors. The aim of the study was to examine whether living conditions characteristics and personal circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic predicted the presence of depression symptoms and suicidal ideation among tertiary students and whether resilience and social support can mitigate the detrimental effects of difficult life circumstances.

Method

A large online cross-sectional study was conducted in March 2021 among 4,645 Slovenian tertiary students. Hierarchical multiple regression and hierarchical logistic regression methods were used to assess and compare the effect of life circumstances variables, as opposed to resilience and social support, on depression symptoms and suicidal ideation.

Results

Female gender, single relationship status, living alone, a higher degree of household conflict, having a history of mental illness and chronic disease diagnosis were significant predictors of depression scores. All but gender were also predictors of suicidal ideation. Household conflict and a history of mental illness were the factors showing the strongest effect in both cases. On the other hand, social support and, in particular, resilience proved to be strong protective factors against depression symptoms and suicidal ideation. After accounting for one’s resilience and social support, the explained variance in depression scores was more than doubled, while the harmful effect of household conflict and history of mental illness significantly decreased.

Conclusions

The findings stress the importance of one’s resilience and social support and explain why some people manage to maintain mental well-being despite finding themselves in difficult life circumstances, which was the case for many tertiary students during the COVID-19 pandemic. These insights may inform preventive efforts against developing suicidal ideation and may be used as support for the design and implementation of interventions for improving resilience and social support from childhood onward.
Assessment of preoperative planning and intraoperative accuracy of the AIKNEE system for total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Lan Saijiao , Li Jian
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the AIKNEE system in preoperative planning and intraoperative alignment for total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A total of 64 patients were planned preoperatively by the AIKNEE system, including the measurement of mechanical femorotibial angle (mFTA), lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), and medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) using three-dimensional reconstructed images. Intraoperatively, the actual prosthesis size and alignment were compared to the planned parameters. Postoperative outcomes, including pain levels, range of motion (ROM), and Knee Scoring System (KSS) scores, were assessed after surgery. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the correlation between alignment deviations and postoperative function.

Results

The AIKNEE system accurately predicted the prosthesis size in thirty-one of femoral cases (48%) and forty-seven of tibial cases (73%). Deviations of mFTA, LDFA, and MPTA from the target value were within 3° in 88%, 92%, and 95% of cases, respectively. A significant improvement was observed in postoperative pain, ROM, and KSS scores (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed that greater deviations in mFTA and LDFA were associated with increased pain (p = 0.004, 0.047) and lower KSS scores (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The AIKNEE system demonstrated promising results in predicting prosthesis size and achieved alignment within the desired range in a majority of cases. Postoperative outcomes, including pain levels and functional improvement, were favorable.
Astragalus mongholicus bunge and panax notoginseng formula (A&P) improves renal fibrosis in UUO mice via inhibiting the long non-coding RNA A330074K22Rik and downregulating ferroptosis signaling
Authors: Zhong Xia , Huang Yue , Jia Jian , Liu Jian , Su Hongwei , Hu Qiongdan , Tan Ruizhi , Wang Li
Published: July 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its associated end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are significant health problems that pose a threat to human well-being. Renal fibrosis is a common feature and ultimate pathological outcome of various CKD leading to ESRD. The Astragalus mongholicus Bunge and Panax notoginseng formula (A&P) is a refined compound formulated by our research group, which has been clinically administered for over a decade and has demonstrated the ability to improve the inflammatory state of various acute or chronic kidney diseases. However, the underlying mechanism by which A&P ameliorates renal fibrosis remains unclear.

Methods

We established a mouse model by surgically ligating the unilateral ureter to induce renal injury in vivo. And we utilized renal in situ electroporation of a plasmid with low LncRNA A33 expression to establish the unilateral ureteral obstruction(UUO)mouse model. In vitro, we stimulated primary tubular epithelial cells(pTEC) injury using TGF-β1, siRNA-A33, and pcDNA3.1-A33 plasmids were transfected into pTECs to respectively knockdown and overexpress LncRNA A33, and both in vitro and in vivo models were intervened with A&P.

Results

The results demonstrated that A&P effectively alleviated renal fibrosis in mice. Subsequent findings indicated high expression of LncRNA A33 in the kidneys of UUO mice and TGF-β1-induced renal tubular cells. In situ, renal electroporation of a plasmid with reduced LncRNA A33 expression revealed that inhibiting LncRNA A33 significantly improved renal fibrosis in UUO mice. Moreover, A&P effectively suppressed LncRNA A33 expression both in vitro and in vivo. Subsequent downregulation of LncRNA A33 in renal tubular epithelial cells resulted in the downregulation of numerous fibrotic markers, a significant inhibition of LncRNA A33, and a notable reduction in downstream ferroptosis signaling. Cell experiments demonstrated that A&P improved renal fibrosis in UUO mice by inhibiting LncRNA A33 and downregulating ferroptosis signaling.

Conclusion

Through the inhibition of LncRNA A33 and subsequent downregulation of ferroptosis signaling, A&P showed potential as a therapeutic approach for improving renal fibrosis in UUO mice, providing a potential treatment avenue for CKD.
Collaboration cognizance: Development of a self-assessment tool to measure intra-professional collaborative practices (IPCP) in postgraduate medical residents at tertiary care hospitals
Authors: Anwar Ayesha , Yasmeen Rahila , Khan Rehan Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Background

The ever-evolving healthcare system of today demands physicians who steer their roles as treatment providers, managers and collaborators. Professionals are highly interdependent due to increased complexity of health problems and risk of errors increases with transitions in care. In hospitals, the main workforce is postgraduate residents; therefore, intraprofessional collaboration amongst residents is essential. Several instruments are available to evaluate interprofessional collaboration amongst physicians, nurses and hospital teams but none specifically assessed intra-professional collaborative practices amongst residents working in tertiary care hospitals in multi-disciplinary teams. This study intends to develop and validate an instrument to self-assess intraprofessional collaborative practices in postgraduate residents undergoing residency in multiple specialties at tertiary care hospitals.

Approach

This study on Instrument Development employed mixed method study design executed in two phases. In phase 1, six domains of intraprofessional collaborative practices were identified from literature and 35 items were developed. Fifteen experts participated in qualitative content validation and provided comments. To establish content validity in phase 2, content validity index (CVI) and content clarity average (CCA) were assessed by seventeen experts. Response process validity was established by cognitive interviewing of 5 postgraduate residents. Pilot testing was done on a sample of 407 residents. Cronbach’s alpha was determined, and confirmatory factor analysis established construct validity.

Results

During phase 1, items were modified based on qualitative feedback from 15 experts. In round 2, CVI and CCA were determined based on responses of 17 experts. The items having an I-CVI greater than 0.90 were accepted and six items underwent modifications as their I-CVI fell between 0.78 and 0.90. Similarly, four items with a CCA of less than 2.4 were modified to increase clarity. Cognitive interviews of participants on 30 items resulted in the deletion of 1 item and changes in 5 items. The final instrument had 29 items categorized under six constructs. All items had good factor loadings during CFA, so none was deleted. Cronbach’s Alpha α was 0.937.

Conclusion

Intraprofessional collaborative practices in residents is a valid and reliable self-assessment tool comprising 29 items measuring six constructs. It may be used by residents to assess their collaborative practices and incorporated in curricula to help develop collaborative practices and their assessment during training of postgraduate residents.
Novel Saccharomyces uvarum x Saccharomyces kudriavzevii synthetic hybrid with enhanced 2-phenylethanol production
Authors: Drężek Karolina , Antunovics Zsuzsa , Grabiec Agnieszka Karolina
Published: July 2024

Background

Over the last two decades, hybridization has been a powerful tool used to construct superior yeast for brewing and winemaking. Novel hybrids were primarily constructed using at least one Saccharomyces cerevisiae parent. However, little is known about hybrids used for other purposes, such as targeted flavor production, for example, 2-phenylethanol (2-PE). 2-PE, an aromatic compound widely utilised in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, presents challenges in biotechnological production due to its toxic nature. Consequently, to enhance productivity and tolerance to 2-PE, various strategies such as mutagenesis and genetic engineering are extensively explored to improved yeast strains. While biotechnological efforts have predominantly focused on S. cerevisiae for 2-PE production, other Saccharomyces species and their hybrids remain insufficiently described.

Results

To address this gap, in this study, we analysed a new interspecies yeast hybrid, II/6, derived from S. uvarum and S. kudriavzevii parents, in terms of 2-PE bioconversion and resistance to its high concentration, comparing it with the parental strains. Two known media for 2-PE biotransformation and three different temperatures were used during this study to determine optimal conditions. In 72 h batch cultures, the II/6 hybrid achieved a maximum of 2.36 ± 0.03 g/L 2-PE, which was 2–20 times higher than the productivity of the parental strains. Our interest lay not only in determining whether the hybrid improved in productivity but also in assessing whether its susceptibility to high 2-PE titers was also mitigated. The results showed that the hybrid exhibited significantly greater resistance to the toxic product than the original strains.

Conclusions

The conducted experiments have confirmed that hybridization is a promising method for modifying yeast strains. As a result, both 2-PE production yield and tolerance to its inhibitory effects can be increased. Furthermore, this strategy allows for the acquisition of non-GMO strains, alleviating concerns related to additional legislative requirements or consumer acceptance issues for producers. The findings obtained have the potential to contribute to the development of practical solutions in the future.
Peripheral whole blood microRNA expression in relation to vascular function: a population-based study
Authors: Talevi Valentina , Melas Konstantinos , Pehlivan Gökhan , Imtiaz Mohammed A. , Krüger Dennis Manfred , Centeno Tonatiuh Pena , Aziz N. Ahmad , Fischer Andre , Breteler Monique M.B.
Published: July 2024

Background

As key regulators of gene expression, microRNAs affect many cardiovascular mechanisms and have been associated with several cardiovascular diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relation of whole blood microRNAs with several quantitative measurements of vascular function, and explore their biological role through an integrative microRNA-gene expression analysis.

Methods

Peripheral whole blood microRNA expression was assessed through RNA-Seq in 2606 participants (45.8% men, mean age: 53.93, age range: 30 to 95 years) from the Rhineland Study, an ongoing population-based cohort study in Bonn, Germany. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was used to cluster microRNAs with highly correlated expression levels into 14 modules. Through linear regression models, we investigated the association between each module’s expression and quantitative markers of vascular health, including pulse wave velocity, total arterial compliance index, cardiac index, stroke index, systemic vascular resistance index, reactive skin hyperemia and white matter hyperintensity burden. For each module associated with at least one trait, one or more hub-microRNAs driving the association were defined. Hub-microRNAs were further characterized through mapping to putative target genes followed by gene ontology pathway analysis.

Results

Four modules, represented by hub-microRNAs miR-320 family, miR-378 family, miR-3605-3p, miR-6747-3p, miR-6786-3p, and miR-330-5p, were associated with total arterial compliance index. Importantly, the miR-320 family module was also associated with white matter hyperintensity burden, an effect partially mediated through arterial compliance. Furthermore, hub-microRNA miR-192-5p was related to cardiac index. Functional analysis corroborated the relevance of the identified microRNAs for vascular function by revealing, among others, enrichment for pathways involved in blood vessel morphogenesis and development, angiogenesis, telomere organization and maintenance, and insulin secretion.

Conclusions

We identified several microRNAs robustly associated with cardiovascular function, especially arterial compliance and cardiac output. Moreover, our results highlight miR-320 as a regulator of cerebrovascular damage, partly through modulation of vascular function. As many of these microRNAs were involved in biological processes related to vasculature development and aging, our results contribute to the understanding of vascular physiology and provide putative targets for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Impact of very low carbohydrate ketogenic diets on cardiovascular risk factors among patients with type 2 diabetes; GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Ghasemi Parisa , Jafari Malihe , Maskouni Saber Jafari , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Amiri Roksaneh , Hejazi Jalal , Chambari Mahla , Tavasolian Ronia , Rahimlou Mehran
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate the impact of VLCKD on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with T2DM.

Methods

Until March 2024, extensive searches were conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and other relevant databases. The purpose was to identify clinical trials examining the impact of VLCKD on glycemic control, lipid profile, and blood pressure. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) method was used to assess the evidence’s degree of certainty.

Results

Our initial search found a total of 2568 records and finally 29 trials were included in final analysis. Our results showed that adherence from VLCKD led to significant reduction in fasting blood sugar (WMD= -11.68 mg/dl; 95% CI: -18.79, -4.56; P = 0.001), HbA1c (WMD= -0.29; 95% CI: -0.44, -0.14; P < 0.001), HOMA-IR(WMD= -0.71; 95% CI: -1.14, -0.29; P = 0.001), insulin (WMD= -1.45; 95% CI: -2.54, -0.36; P = 0.009), triglyceride (WMD= -17.95; 95% CI: -26.82, -9.07; P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (WMD= -2.85, 95% CI: -4.99, -0.71; P = 0.009) and diastolic blood pressure (WMD= -1.40; 95% CI: -2.66, -0.13; P = 0.03). We also found a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level after adherence from VLCKD diet (WMD = 3.93, 95% CI: 2.03, 5.84; P = 0.000). We couldn’t find any significant differences between groups in term of LDL and total cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

People following a VLCKD experience a more significant improvement in cardiovascular risk factors when compared to individuals on control diets.
How feasible is it to mobilize $31 billion a year for pandemic preparedness and response? An economic growth modelling analysis
Authors: Shahid Minahil , Schäferhoff Marco , Brown Garrett , Yamey Gavin
Published: July 2024

Background

Covid-19 has reinforced health and economic cases for investing in pandemic preparedness and response (PPR). The World Bank and World Health Organization (WHO) propose that low- and middle-income governments and donor countries should invest $31.1 billion each year for PPR. We analyse, based on the projected economic growth of countries between 2022 and 2027, how likely it is that low- and middle-income country governments and donors can mobilize the estimated funding.

Methods

We modelled trends in economic growth to project domestic health spending by low- and middle-income governments and official development assistance (ODA) by donors for years 2022 to 2027. We modelled two scenarios for countries and donors – a constant and an optimistic scenario. Under the constant scenario we assume that countries and donors continue to dedicate the same proportion of their health spending and ODA as a share of gross domestic product (GDP) and gross national income (GNI), respectively, as they did during baseline (the latest year for which data are available). In the optimistic scenario, we assume a yearly increase of 2.5% in health spending as a share of GDP for countries and ODA as a share of GNI for donors.

Findings

Our analysis shows that low-income countries would need to invest on average 37%, lower-middle income countries 9%, and upper-middle income countries 1%, of their total health spending on PPR each year under the constant scenario to meet the World Bank WHO targets. Donors would need to allocate on average 8% of their total ODA across all sectors to PPR each year to meet their target.

Conclusions

The World Bank WHO targets for PPR will not be met unless low- and middle-income governments and donors spend a much higher share of their funding on PPR. Even under optimistic growth scenarios, low-income and lower-middle income countries will require increased support from global health donors. The donor target cannot be met using the yearly increase in ODA under any scenario. If the country and donor targets are not met, the highest-impact health security measures need to be prioritized for funding. Alternative sources of PPR financing could include global taxation (e.g., on financial transactions, carbon, or airline flights), cancelling debt, and addressing illicit financial flows. There is also a need for continued work on estimating current PPR costs and funding requirements in order to arrive at more enduring and reliable estimates.
Exploring unconventional food plants used by local communities in a rural area of West Java, Indonesia: ethnobotanical assessment, use trends, and potential for improved nutrition
Authors: Rahayu Yen Yen Sally , Sujarwo Wawan , Irsyam Arifin Surya Dwipa , Dwiartama Angga , Rosleine Dian
Published: July 2024

Background

As one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, Indonesia contains over 25,000 plant species, including unconventional food plants (UFPs). These plants are integral to the dietary practices of rural communities, providing essential nutrients often overlooked in modern diets. However, the use of UFP is declining, with both their dietary and cultural values being undermined. In rural West Java, this decline in UFP biodiversity coincides with public health challenges related to malnutrition. This study aims to document the diversity of UFPs used by local communities in rural West Java, assess their nutritional value, and explore their consumption practices.

Methods

Data were collected using mixed methods, including interviews with 20 key informants and food frequency questionnaire administered to 107 women in three villages in the area. The nutritional compositions of documented UFPs were obtained from literature and analysis. Bivariate correlation was used to analyze the relationships between UFP consumption frequency and potential correlates.

Results

The study documented 52 species of UFPs from 29 families, many of which are rich in nutritional value. About half of respondents (56%) consumed UFPs moderately (2–3 times a week). UFP consumption frequency had a strong correlation (r = 0.70) with associated knowledge (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and a weak correlation with age (r = 0.240, p = 0.015), livestock possession (r = 0.260, p = 0.008), and family size (r = − 0.220, p = 0.02). Motivations for UFP consumption included availability as free food (33%), medicinal value (26%), nostalgic value (23%), and preferred taste (18%). Most respondents (92%) agreed that consumption has declined compared to the past, with perceived reduced availability and lack of knowledge cited as the primary reasons for the declining trend.

Conclusions

UFP use is common in the study area, where local communities value these plants for their critical roles in diet, medicine, and culture. Given their significant potential to meet dietary needs, educating and raising awareness about UFPs can enhance their consumption and contribute to food and nutrition security.
High flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy versus non-invasive ventilation for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute-moderate hypercapnic respiratory failure: a randomized controlled non-inferiority trial
Authors: Tan Dingyu , Wang Bingxia , Cao Peng , Wang Yunyun , Sun Jiayan , Geng Ping , Walline Joseph Harold , Wang Yachao , Wang Chenlong
Published: July 2024

Background

Although cumulative studies have demonstrated a beneficial effect of high-flow nasal cannula oxygen (HFNC) in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure, randomized trials to compare HFNC with non-invasive ventilation (NIV) as initial treatment in acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) patients with acute-moderate hypercapnic respiratory failure are limited. The aim of this randomized, open label, non-inferiority trial was to compare treatment failure rates between HFNC and NIV in such patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with AECOPD with a baseline arterial blood gas pH between 7.25 and 7.35 and PaCO2 ≥ 50 mmHg admitted to two intensive care units (ICUs) at a large tertiary academic teaching hospital between March 2018 and December 2022 were randomly assigned to HFNC or NIV. The primary endpoint was the rate of treatment failure, defined as endotracheal intubation or a switch to the other study treatment modality. Secondary endpoints were rates of intubation or treatment change, blood gas values, vital signs at one, 12, and 48 h, 28-day mortality, as well as ICU and hospital lengths of stay.

Results

225 total patients (113 in the HFNC group and 112 in the NIV group) were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The failure rate of the HFNC group was 25.7%, while the NIV group was 14.3%. The failure rate risk difference between the two groups was 11.38% (95% CI 0.25–21.20, P = 0.033), which was higher than the non-inferiority cut-off of 9%. In the per-protocol analysis, treatment failure occurred in 28 of 110 patients (25.5%) in the HFNC group and 15 of 109 patients (13.8%) in the NIV group (risk difference, 11.69%; 95% CI 0.48–22.60). The intubation rate in the HFNC group was higher than in the NIV group (14.2% vs 5.4%, P = 0.026). The treatment switch rate, ICU and hospital length of stay or 28-day mortality in the HFNC group were not statistically different from the NIV group (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

HFNC was not shown to be non-inferior to NIV and resulted in a higher incidence of treatment failure than NIV when used as the initial respiratory support for AECOPD patients with acute-moderate hypercapnic respiratory failure.

Trial registration: chictr.org (ChiCTR1800014553). Registered 21 January 2018, http://www.chictr.org.cn
Can flash glucose monitoring improve glucose management for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with type 2 diabetes? A protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hachem Mariam , Hearn Tracey , Kelly Ray , Eer Audrey , Moore Belinda , Sommerville Christine , Atkinson-Briggs Sharon , Twigg Stephen , Freund Meagan , O’Neal David , Story David , Brown Alex , McLean Anna , Sinha Ashim , Furler John , O’Brien Richard , Tran-Duy An , Clarke Philip , Braat Sabine , Koye Digsu N. , Eades Sandra , Burchill Luke , Ekinci Elif
Published: July 2024

Background

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are disproportionately impacted by type 2 diabetes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology (such as Abbott Freestyle Libre 2, previously referred to as Flash Glucose Monitoring) offers real-time glucose monitoring that is convenient and easy to use compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). However, this technology’s use is neither widespread nor subsidised for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with type 2 diabetes. Building on existing collaborations with a national network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, this randomised controlled trial aims to assess the effect of CGM compared to SMBG on (i) haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), (ii) achieving blood glucose targets, (iii) reducing hypoglycaemic episodes and (iv) cost-effective healthcare in an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people health setting.

Methods

This is a non-masked, parallel-group, two-arm, individually randomised, controlled trial (ACTRN12621000753853). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults with type 2 diabetes on injectable therapy and HbA1c ≥ 7.5% (n = 350) will be randomised (1:1) to CGM or SMBG for 6 months. The primary outcome is change in HbA1c level from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes include (i) CGM-derived metrics, (ii) frequency of hypoglycaemic episodes, (iii) health-related quality of life and (iv) incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year gained associated with the CGM compared to SMBG. Clinical trial sites include Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, Aboriginal Medical Services, primary care centres and tertiary hospitals across urban, rural, regional and remote Australia.

Discussion

The trial will assess the effect of CGM compared to SMBG on HbA1c for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with type 2 diabetes in Australia. This trial could have long-term benefits in improving diabetes management and providing evidence for funding of CGM in this population.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12621000753853. Registered on 15th June 2021.
Novel RP-HPLC–DAD approach for simultaneous determination of chlorphenoxamine hydrochloride and caffeine with their related substances
Authors: Ashraf Ahmed , ElDin Norhan Badr , Rostom Yasmin , El-Zeany Badr A. , Sedik Ghada A.
Published: July 2024

Ensuring the quality control of active pharmaceutical ingredients is crucial for drug products being introduced into the market. Even for established drugs, it is necessary to maintain a cutting-edge impurity control system. To analyze caffeine and chlorphenoxamine hydrochloride in their binary mixture, as well as theophylline and chlorphenoxamine N-oxide as related substances, a reversed phase-high performance liquid chromatography combined with a diode array detector system was created. The chromatographic separation was conducted using a C18 X-select Waters® column. The mobile phase consisted of 20.0 mM potassium dihydrogen phosphate modified to pH 3 with o-phosphoric acid and methanol. A gradient elution program was adopted at a flow rate of 1.3 mL/min and detected at a wavelength of 222 nm. The present methodology demonstrates a concentration ranging from 2–60, 1–80, 0.5–20 to 0.4–20 µg/mL for chlorphenoxamine hydrochloride, caffeine, chlorphenoxamine N-Oxide and theophylline, respectively. Chlorphenoxamine N-Oxide, being an impurity of chlorphenoxamine was prepared by refluxing intact drug with 5% H2O2 for 24 h at 100 °C. One of the objectives of the analytical community is to promote the adoption of green analysis methods, which involve the development of environmentally friendly techniques. The levels of greenness and whiteness were evaluated using four specific tools: Eco-Scale System, GAPI, AGREE, and RGB tool. Furthermore, we have evaluated the greenness of the analytical method presented and compared its performance and greenness to that of the approach described in the literature. In this study, results from CPX and CAF analysis were compared to those obtained in a previous study. The result shows that there is no notable variation in precision and accuracy. The proposed method was validated in accordance with the requirements of ICH.
Antennal transcriptome analysis reveals sensory receptors potentially associated with host detection in the livestock pest Lucilia cuprina
Authors: Wulff Juan P. , Hickner Paul V. , Watson David W. , Denning Steven S. , Belikoff Esther J. , Scott Maxwell J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is the main causative agent of flystrike of sheep in Australia and New Zealand. Female flies lay eggs in an open wound or natural orifice, and the developing larvae eat the host’s tissues, a condition called myiasis. To improve our understanding of host-seeking behavior, we quantified gene expression in male and female antennae based on their behavior.

Methods

A spatial olfactometer was used to evaluate the olfactory response of L. cuprina mated males and gravid females to fresh or rotting beef. Antennal RNA-Seq analysis was used to identify sensory receptors differentially expressed between groups.

Results

Lucilia cuprina females were more attracted to rotten compared to fresh beef (> fivefold increase). However, males and some females did not respond to either type of beef. RNA-Seq analysis was performed on antennae dissected from attracted females, non-attracted females and males. Transcripts encoding sensory receptors from 11 gene families were identified above a threshold (≥ 5 transcript per million) including 49 ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABCs), two ammonium transporters (AMTs), 37 odorant receptors (ORs), 16 ionotropic receptors (IRs), 5 gustatory receptors (GRs), 22 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), 9 CD36-sensory neuron membrane proteins (CD36/SNMPs), 4 chemosensory proteins (CSPs), 4 myeloid lipid-recognition (ML) and Niemann-Pick C2 disease proteins (ML/NPC2), 2 pickpocket receptors (PPKs) and 3 transient receptor potential channels (TRPs). Differential expression analyses identified sex-biased sensory receptors.

Conclusions

We identified sensory receptors that were differentially expressed between the antennae of both sexes and hence may be associated with host detection by female flies. The most promising for future investigations were as follows: an odorant receptor (LcupOR46) which is female-biased in L. cuprina and Cochliomyia hominivorax Coquerel, 1858; an ABC transporter (ABC G23.1) that was the sole sensory receptor upregulated in the antennae of females attracted to rotting beef compared to non-attracted females; a female-biased ammonia transporter (AMT_Rh50), which was previously associated with ammonium detection in Drosophila melanogaster Meigen, 1830. This is the first report suggesting a possible role for ABC transporters in L. cuprina olfaction and potentially in other insects.

Graphical Abstract
ECG signal decomposition using Fourier analysis
Authors: Kheirati Roonizi Arman , Sassi Roberto
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the Fourier decomposition method to approximate the decomposition of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals into their component waveforms, such as the QRS-complex and T-wave. We compute expansion coefficients using the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

Fourier transform and the traditional $$\ell _2$$

ℓ
2

Fourier transform. Numerical examples are presented, and the analysis focuses on ECG signals as a real-world application, comparing the performance of the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

and $$\ell _2$$

ℓ
2

Fourier transforms. Our results demonstrate that the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

Fourier transform significantly enhances the separation of ECG signal components, such as the QRS-complex and T-wave. This improvement is attributed to a notable reduction in the Gibbs phenomenon introduced by the Fourier-series expansion when using the $$\ell _1$$

ℓ
1

Fourier transform, as opposed to the traditional $$\ell _2$$

ℓ
2

Fourier transform.
Physical layer secure transmission in the coexistence of V2I and V2V with RIS assistance
Authors: Tang Zerong , Song Tiecheng , Hu Jing
Published: July 2024

The security of vehicle communication becomes increasingly important due to the transmission requirement of large-scale security and privacy data in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV). This paper investigates the physical layer secure transmission with reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) assistance in the coexistence of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V). It establishes a communication model for physical layer secure transmission where the eavesdropping user exists. Based on this model, we propose a V2I physical layer secure transmission rate (PLSTR) maximization problem and solve it by employing an alternating optimization algorithm based on generalized Rayleigh entropy and semi-definite relaxation programming so as to obtain optimal V2I base station precoding and RIS reflection coefficient matrix. Simulation results further validate the superiority of the proposed algorithm and analyze the impact of relevant parameters on system performance.
Functional identification of three regiospecific flavonoid O-methyltransferases in Rhododendron delavayi and their applications in the biotechnological production of methoxyflavonoids
Authors: Lee Kyungha , Bhoo Seong Hee , Lee Sang-Won , Cho Man-Ho
Published: July 2024

Rhododendrons produce a variety of methoxyflavonoids, including rarely found 3-methoxyflavonoids and 5-methoxyflavonoids. It was thus suggested that they have a series of regiospecific flavonoid O-methyltransferases (FOMTs). The 18 Class II O-methyltransferase (OMT) genes were retrieved from the Rhododendron delavayi genome, designating them as RdOMTs. A comprehensive biochemical characterization of RdOMTs was performed to identify functional FOMTs. The FOMT activity of recombinant RdOMTs was assayed with flavonoid substrates of different subclasses. Among the examined RdOMTs, RdOMT3, RdOMT10, and RdOMT12 showed FOMT activity for diverse flavonoids. In particular, RdOMT3 consumed only flavonols as a substrate. Structural analyses of the methylated products demonstrated that RdOMT3, RdOMT10, and RdOMT12 catalyze regiospecific methylation of flavonoids at the 3'/5'-, 3-, and 4'-hydroxyl groups, respectively. Their broad substrate spectrum and different regiospecificity suggest that these RdOMTs contribute to the formation of complex methoxyflavonoids in R. delavayi. Bioconversion of flavonoids using E. coli harboring each RdOMT demonstrated that RdOMT3, RdOMT10, and RdOMT12 are useful tools for the biotechnological production of valuable methoxyflavonoids, including the rarely found 3-methoxyflavonoids.
Extending X-reality technologies to digital twin in cultural heritage risk management: a comparative evaluation from the perspective of situation awareness
Authors: Guo Yuqing , Liu Lin , Huang Wei , Shen Min , Yi Xiaolie , Zhang Jifa , Lu Shizhu
Published: July 2024

DT systems, characterized by real-time capabilities, high precision, and high integration, have become essential in various domains. In the context of cultural heritage, a DT system encompasses comprehensive information about heritage sites, contextual data, and expert knowledge, forming a complex dynamic system. The substantial volume of information and diverse sources significantly increases the cognitive load for management personnel in understanding on-site situations. This study, from the perspective of situational awareness, introduces X-reality technologies (VR and AR) into DT systems for cultural heritage risk management. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of different X-reality technologies in cultural heritage risk perception and their impact mechanisms. A total of 184 participants were divided into two groups and experienced three different applications (2D desktop, VR, and AR). Using situational awareness rating techniques, participants' responses were measured across three dimensions: attention resource demand, attention resource supply, and understanding of the situation. SEM was employed to estimate the stability of the scale data. The results indicate that, compared to traditional 2D desktops, both VR and AR demonstrate advantages in enhancing heritage risk situational awareness. However, in AR mode, no significant advantages were found in the dimensions of attention resource demand and attention resource supply compared to traditional 2D desktop applications. Furthermore, a significant difference in immersion between VR and AR was found to affect the attention resource demand dimension. Although the results suggest differences in the interactivity of VR and AR in affecting the attention resource demand dimension, no significant differences were found. By comprehensively understanding the functional mechanisms of X-reality technologies in influencing cultural heritage risk situational awareness, this study provides design references for constructing DT systems for cultural heritage risk management. Additionally, it offers insights for heritage site managers, experts, and stakeholders to enhance risk perception efficiency, promoting more effective risk assessment, analysis, and strategic decision-making, thereby reducing damage to cultural heritage.