bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indoor air quality in educational institutions: a comparative study of VOCs and bacterial contaminants in Dubai schools
Authors: Jung Chuloh , El Samanoudy Gamal , Alqassimi Nahla
Published: December 2024

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) research in educational institutions is crucial for ensuring the health and wellbeing of students and staff. It also contributes to academic performance, energy efficiency, regulation compliance, and cost savings. This study conducted IAQ assessments in three school buildings in Dubai to address the lack of empirical data on IAQ in educational settings. It compared IAQ standards set by the Dubai Municipality with those established by the WHO. Measurements were taken in classrooms, computer labs, and science labs, revealing that some pollutants exceeded maintenance standards, including TVOC, airborne bacteria, and noise levels. However, formaldehyde and VOCs remained within acceptable limits. Computer labs exhibited higher TVOC levels than classrooms, while science labs had even higher levels. Science labs also had higher concentrations of formaldehyde. VOC concentrations generally met WHO standards, except for elevated levels of Benzene in the science lab. TVOC, formaldehyde, airborne bacteria, CO, CO2, and other substances showed higher levels during class sessions, whereas Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, Xylene, and NO2 exhibited higher levels when classes were not in session. The study also analyzed IAQ changes over time based on building construction age. Generally, TVOC, formaldehyde (HCHO), and other substances decreased over time. However, even in buildings older than 5 years, TVOC occasionally exceeded WHO standards. These findings emphasize the significance of monitoring and maintaining proper IAQ in educational institutions to create a healthy learning environment. Policymakers, school administrators, and researchers can use these insights to develop effective strategies for enhancing IAQ and safeguarding students’ and staff’s wellbeing and academic success.
Understanding the experiences of public experts on COVID-19 in Australia
Authors: Dempster Georgia , Sutherland Georgina
Published: December 2024

Public experts emerged as vital media figures during the COVID-19 pandemic, influencing political discourse and health interventions. Our study, based on qualitative interviews with public experts who engaged with Australian media, sought to understand their unique experiences and motivations in a pandemic context. Despite significant negative repercussions such as receiving abuse from the public and dealing with difficult journalists, public experts reported positive experiences, such as having a translatable public health impact, reducing community anxiety, and making research accessible outside of academic environments. This study shows the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of these essential contributors to science communication, particularly in the context of post-normal science during a crisis.
The impact of atrial voltage and conduction velocity phenotypes on atrial fibrillation recurrence
Authors: Silva Cunha Pedro , Laranjo Sérgio , Monteiro Sofia , Portugal Guilherme , Guerra Cátia , Rocha António Condeixa , Pereira Mariana , Ferreira Rui Cruz , Heijman Jordi , Oliveira Mário Martins
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Low atrial voltage and slow conduction velocity (CV) have been associated with atrial fibrillation (AF); however, their interaction and relative importance as early disease markers remain incompletely understood. We aimed to elucidate the relationship between atrial voltage and CV using high-density electroanatomic (HDE) maps of patients with AF.

Methods

HDE maps obtained during sinus rhythm in 52 patients with AF and five healthy controls were analysed. Atrial voltage and CV maps were generated, and their correlations were assessed. Subgroup analyses were performed based on clinically relevant factors such as AF type, CV, and voltage levels. Finally, cluster analysis was conducted to identify distinct phenotypes within the population, reflecting different patterns of conduction and voltage.

Results

A moderate positive correlation was found between the mean atrial voltage and CV (r = 0.570). Subgroup analysis revealed differences in voltage (p = 0.0044) but not in global CV (p = 0.42), with no significant differences between AF types. Three distinct phenotypes emerged: normal voltage/normal CV, normal voltage/low CV, and low voltage/low CV, with distinct recurrence rates, suggesting different disease progression paths. Slower atrial CV was identified as a significant predictor of arrhythmia recurrence at 12 and 24 months after AF ablation, surpassing the predictive potential of atrial voltage.

Conclusion

Atrial voltage and CV analyses revealed distinct phenotypes. Lower atrial CV emerged as a significant predictor of AF recurrence, exceeding the predictive significance of atrial voltage. These findings emphasise the importance of considering CV and voltage in managing AF and offer potential insights for personalised strategies.
Differences in severity of diffuse and focal coronary stenosis between visual and quantitative assessment
Authors: Wang Xinmao , Song Chao , Liu Heng , Zhou Lin , Zhang Letian
Published: December 2024

Background

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality, with an increasing number of patients affected by coronary artery stenosis each year. Coronary angiography (CAG) is commonly employed as the definitive diagnostic tool for identifying coronary artery stenosis. Physician Visual Assessment (PVA) is often used as the primary method to determine the need for further intervention, but its subjective nature poses challenges. This study sought to evaluate the differences of severity of diffuse and focal coronary stenosis between PVA and Quantitative Coronary Angiography (QCA).

Methods

293 patients with coronary artery disease (334 coronary lesions) underwent CAG and fractional flow reserve (FFR). PVA and QCA was used to quantify diameter stenosis (DS). DS ≥50% was defined as obstructive. FFR ≤0.8 was defined as myocardial ischemia.

Results

The mean ± SD age of all patients was 66 ± 9 years. ΔDS between PVA and QCA was higher in diffuse lesions (16.45 ± 7.37%) than in focal lesions (14.39 ± 7.83%) (P = 0.04). DSPVA and DSQCA had linear negative correlation (rPVA = −0.3182, rQCA = −0.4054) with FFR in diffuse, while in focal, DSPVA and DSQCA had an even stronger linear negative correlation (rPVA = −0.4090, rQCA = −0.4861) with FFR. ROC analysis demonstrated that DSQCA had better discrimination capability for myocardial ischemia (FFR ≤ 0.80) than DSPVA in different of length stenosis.

Conclusions

PVA was more likely to overestimate diameter stenosis in coronary arteries than QCA, and the severity of diffuse stenosis was more likely to be overestimated than that of focal stenosis.
Comparative analysis and application of rockburst prediction model based on secretary bird optimization algorithm
Authors: Yang Tengjie , Gao Xinqiang , Wang Lichuan , Xue Yongqing , Fan Haobo , Zhu Zhengguo , Zhao Jingbo , Dong Beiyi
Published: December 2024

The accurate rockburst prediction is crucial for ensuring the safety of underground engineering construction. Among the various methods, machine learning-based rockburst prediction can better solve the nonlinear relationship between rockbursts and influencing factors and thus has great potential for engineering applications. However, current research often faces certain challenges related to the feature selection of prediction indices and poor model optimization performance. This study compiled 342 rockburst cases from domestic and international sources to construct an initial database. In order to determine the relevant prediction indicators, a feature selection method based on the ReliefF-Kendall model was proposed. The initial database was equalized and visualized using the Adasyn and t-SNE algorithms. Five rockburst prediction models [support vector machine (SVM), least-squares support vector machine (LSSVM), kernel extreme learning machine (KELM), Random Forest (RF), and XGBoost] were established by employing the Secretary Bird Optimization (SBO) algorithm and 5-fold cross-validation to optimize performance. The optimal model was selected based on a comprehensive assessment of generalization ability (accuracy, kappa, precision, recall, and F1-score) and stability (average accuracy). The reliability of the proposed feature selection, model optimization, and data balancing methods was verified by comparing the optimal model with other methods. The results indicate that the PSO-SVM model demonstrated superior prediction accuracy and generalization performance; the accuracy can reach 81.4% (optimal) and 80.1% (average). The main factors affecting the occurrence of rockburst are Wet, maximum tangential stress (MTS), D, and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS). Finally, the model was applied to the domestic rockburst engineering cases, achieving a prediction accuracy of 90% and verifying its engineering applicability.
Policy proposals to promote inclusion of caregivers in the research funding system
Authors: Torres Isabel L. , Collins Rayven-Nikkita , Hertz Anaelle , Liukkonen Martta
Published: December 2024

Research funding is critical for scientific production and career advancement in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM). The COVID-19 pandemic has unmasked a deeply flawed research funding system riddled by inequitable policies, biased evaluations, and a lack of transparency and accountability. While most scientists were affected by the pandemic to some extent, evidence shows that women with caregiving responsibilities were disproportionately impacted, with long-term effects on their careers. However, despite calls for change by scientists globally, whose careers depend largely on funding success, decision-makers have made little to no effort to reform a funding system that marginalises a large proportion of researchers, including women, and especially mothers. Here, we review the current literature on gender bias in the STEMM funding process and propose a set of specific, actionable policies to promote caregiver inclusion and close the gender gap in research funding.
Construction and validation of a nomogram model for predicting diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Liu Hanying , Liu Qiao , Chen Mengdie , Lu Chaoyin , Feng Ping
Published: December 2024

Objective

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a chronic complication of diabetes that can potentially escalate into ulceration, amputation and other severe consequences. The aim of this study was to construct and validate a predictive nomogram model for assessing the risk of DPN development among diabetic patients, thereby facilitating the early identification of high-risk DPN individuals and mitigating the incidence of severe outcomes.

Methods

1185 patients were included in this study from June 2020 to June 2023. All patients underwent peripheral nerve function assessments, of which 801 were diagnosed with DPN. Patients were randomly divided into a training set (n =711) and a validation set (n = 474) with a ratio of 6:4. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors and develop a simple nomogram. Subsequently, the discrimination and clinical value of the nomogram was extensively validated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves and clinical decision curve analyses (DCA).

Results

Following LASSO regression analysis, a nomogram model for predicting the risk of DPN was eventually established based on 7 factors: age (OR = 1.02, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.03), hip circumference (HC, OR = 0.94, 95%CI: 0.92 – 0.97), fasting plasma glucose (FPG, OR = 1.06, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.11), fasting C-peptide (FCP, OR = 0.66, 95%CI: 0.56 - 0.77), 2 hour postprandial C-peptide (PCP, OR = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.72 – 0.84), albumin (ALB, OR = 0.90, 95%CI: 0.87 – 0.94) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN, OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 1.01 - 1.17). The areas under the curves (AUC) of the nomogram were 0.703 (95% CI 0.664-0.743) and 0.704 (95% CI 0.652-0.756) in the training and validation sets, respectively. The Hosmer–Lemeshow test and calibration curves revealed high consistency between the predicted and actual results of the nomogram. DCA demonstrated that the nomogram was valuable in clinical practice.

Conclusions

The DPN nomogram prediction model, containing 7 significant variables, has exhibited excellent performance. Its generalization to clinical practice could potentially help in the early detection and prompt intervention for high-risk DPN patients.
Association of geriatric nutritional risk index with total testosterone in elderly adults in the US: evidence from NHANES 2011-2016
Authors: Li Tanjian , Jiang Na , Liang Xin , Li Xinya , Li Yaqin , Huang Yuting , Wang Yu
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

There is growing evidence that deficiencies in specific nutrients can impact testosterone levels in older men. However, research examining the predictive value of overall nutritional status on testosterone levels remains limited. The Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) is an effective tool for assessing the nutritional status of the elderly. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between the GNRI and serum total testosterone (TT).

Methods

A representative sample of U.S. males aged 60 years and older who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles from 2011 to 2016 was utilized for this cross-sectional study. The research included a total of 829 older adults. Tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography were employed to quantify TT. To examine the association between GNRI and TT, restricted cubic splines (RCS) and weighted multivariate regression analyses were conducted. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the variables influencing the positive association between GNRI and TT. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was carried out to compare the weighted and unweighted data.

Results

After adjusting for all other factors, a positive association was found between GNRI and TT. The beta coefficient was 5.59, with a 95% confidence interval of 2.16 to 9.01, and a p-value of 0.003. Compared to the lowest quartile of GNRI (Q1), the second quartile (Q2), third quartile (Q3), and fourth quartile (Q4) significantly increased the level of TT. The beta coefficients for Q2, Q3, and Q4 were 70.15 (p = 0.022), 104.40 (p < 0.001), and 84.83 (p < 0.001), respectively. In subgroup analyses, statistically significant associations were observed among participants who did not have diabetes, had hypertension, and had a BMI of 24.9 or less. According to the sensitivity analysis, unweighted data also found GNRI to be associated with TT (beta = 3.09, P = 0.031).

Conclusion

A positive correlation was identified between the GNRI and TT in the elderly male population of the United States. Further prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the causal relationship between GNRI and TT.
Decreased telomerase activity and shortened telomere length in infants whose mothers have gestational diabetes mellitus and increased severity of telomere shortening in male infants
Authors: Liu Shuhua , Xu Liping , Cheng Yan , Liu Dehong , Zhang Bin , Chen Xianxia , Zheng Mingming
Published: December 2024

Objective

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy and increases the risk of metabolic diseases in offspring. We hypothesize that the poor intrauterine environment in pregnant women with GDM may lead to chromosomal DNA damage and telomere damage in umbilical cord blood cells, providing evidence of an association between intrauterine programming and increased long-term metabolic disease risk in offspring.

Methods

We measured telomere length (TL), serum telomerase (TE) activity, and oxidative stress markers in umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMCs) from pregnant women with GDM (N=200) and healthy controls (Ctrls) (N=200) and analysed the associations of TL with demographic characteristics, biochemical indicators, and blood glucose levels.

Results

The length of telomeres in umbilical CBMCs in the GDM group was significantly shorter than that in the Ctrl group (P<0.001), and the shortening of telomeres in male infants in the GDM group was more significant than that in the Ctrl group (P<0.001) after adjustment for Pre-pregnancy body mass index (PBMI), Pregnancy weight gain (PGW), and Triglyceride (TG) as confounding factors. In addition, the TE expression level in the GDM group was lower after adjustment. There was no statistically significant difference in oxidative stress hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) between the two groups. TL was positively correlated with TE activity, and both were negatively correlated with blood glucose levels. There was no correlation between TL and Gestational age (GA), PBMI, PGW, or TG levels.

Conclusion

The poor intrauterine environment in pregnant women with GDM increases telomere attrition and reduces TE activity, which may be potential genetic risk factors for an increased risk of metabolic diseases in offspring later in life due to intrauterine reprogramming.
Heterodisomy in the GNAS locus is also a cause of pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B (iPPSD3)
Authors: Manero-Azua Africa , Vado Yerai , Gonzàlez Morlà Judith , Mogas Eduard , Pereda Arrate , Perez de Nanclares Guiomar
Published: December 2024

Objective

To identify the genetic cause underlying the methylation defect in a patient with clinical suspicion of PHP1B/iPPSD3.

Design

Imprinting is an epigenetic mechanism that allows the regulation of gene expression. The GNAS locus is one of the loci within the genome that is imprinted. When the methylation pattern is affected, it causes pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B (PHP1B) or inactivating PTH/PTHrP signaling disorder 3 (iPPSD3). Paternal uniparental isodisomy (iUPDpat) of the chromosomal region comprising the GNAS locus has been described as one of the possible underlying genetic causes of the methylation alteration.

Methods

We present the case of a patient clinically diagnosed with iPPSD3. We performed a commercial methylation-specific multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MS-MLPA), single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, and microsatellite study. In addition, we designed a custom MS-MLPA to analyze GNAS and nearby differentially methylated regions (DMRs).

Results

A methylation defect at the four GNAS-DMRs was detected, confirming the clinical diagnosis. Complementary techniques revealed the presence of a mixed isodisomy and heterodisomy of chromosome 20. Surprisingly, the GNAS locus was located on the heterodisomic zone.

Conclusions

Paternal uniparental heterodisomy (hUPD) at the GNAS locus is also a genetic defect associated with iPPSD3. In the absence of parental samples, our custom MS-MLPA allows for the detection of a methylation defect at the GNAS locus and flanking DMRs, suggestive of uniparental disomy (UPD). We also suggest updating the actual guidelines to include hUPD at the GNAS locus as a cause of iPPSD3.
A hybrid model based on the photovoltaic conversion model and artificial neural network model for short-term photovoltaic power forecasting
Authors: Chen Ran , Gao Shaowei , Zhao Yao , Li Dongdong , Lin Shunfu
Published: December 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) power is greatly uncertain due to the random meteorological parameters. Therefore, accurate PV power forecasting results are significant for the dispatching of power and improving of system stability. This paper proposes a hybrid forecasting model for one-day-ahead PV power forecasting under different cloud amount conditions. The proposed model consists of an improved artificial neural network (ANN) algorithm and a PV power conversion model. First, the ANN model is designed to forecast the plane of array (POA) irradiance and ambient temperature. Backpropagation, gradient descent, and L2 regularization methods are applied in the structure of the ANN model to achieve the best weights, improve the prediction accuracy, and alleviate the effect of overfitting. Second, the PV power conversion model employs the forecasted results of POA irradiance and ambient temperature to determine the PV power produced by a PV module. In addition to the basic temperature factor, environmental efficiency and a reflection efficiency are incorporated into the conversion model to account for real PV module losses. The performance of the proposed model is validated with real weather and PV power data from Alice Springs and Climate Data Store. Results indicate that the model improves the forecast accuracy compared to four benchmark models. Specifically, it reduces root mean square error (RMSE) and normalized RMSE (nRMSE) by up to 25% under cloudy conditions and offers a 3% shorter training time compared to extreme gradient boosting.
Opinions on dynamic topology reconfiguration of distribution networks for PV hosting capacity enhancement
Authors: Pei Zhigang , Chen Jiaming , Zhang Zhiyuan , Liu Weikang , Yan Xin , Jin Yifang
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates on dynamic topology reconfiguration of distribution networks to enhance PV hosting capacity. Firstly, a dynamic topology reconfiguration model of distribution networks considering N-1 security constraints is proposed to accommodate intermittent PV generation, and thus high penetration of renewable resources can be ensured to satisfy operational requirements under both normal and fault conditions with load transfer of feeders. Then, a hosting capacity enhancement strategy is presented to decrease risks of voltage and line overloading with reactive power flexibility of energy storage inverters, and is implemented to enhance the maximum hosting capacity of distributed renewable energy sources. Finally, simulation results have validated the effectiveness of the proposed method for PV hosting capacity enhancement of distribution networks.
Assessing the impact of carbon mitigation strategies on agricultural GHG emissions: insights from a dynamic CGE model analysis
Authors: Gong Zeyu , Huo Xuexi
Published: December 2024

The selection of effective carbon reduction strategies and the management of agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are critical issues in climate change mitigation. Different climate actions can lead to varied pathways for agricultural GHG emissions. This study constructs a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model for Chinese agriculture to identify which measures can contribute to achieving established climate governance objectives, exploring potential net emission pathways for agricultural GHG. On this basis, we provide a rationale for selecting emission reduction measures. Our findings indicate that: (1) Carbon taxation is an indispensable climate action for achieving China’s “dual carbon” goals and net-zero emissions, necessitating combination with other mitigation strategies; (2) Carbon sequestration, non-agricultural carbon taxation, and CCUS measures can alter the net emission trajectory of agricultural GHG, and carbon sequestration shows the most significant impact; (3) Based on the ‘dual carbon’ or net-zero emission goals, China’s agricultural GHG emission pathway might exhibit a flat M-shaped characteristic, whereas intensifying carbon sequestration efforts could lead to an inverted V-shaped trajectory. Our results offer decision-making support for the formulation of GHG emission reduction measures in China.
Geopolitical, economic risk and the time-varying structure of extreme risk in the carbon emissions trading market
Authors: Mi Junlong , Yang Xing , Huang Feifei , Xu Yufa
Published: December 2024

Amidst global climate challenges, carbon emission trading has become the most important market-based environmental policy tool, attracting widespread attention for mitigating price volatility caused by extreme risks. This study applies the multivariate multi-quantile conditional autoregressive value-at-risk (MVMQ-CAVIaRX) model to measure extreme market risk and modifies the Diebold Yilmaz (DY) spillover index calculated using the time-varying parameter vector autoregressive model with exogenous variables (TVP-VARX) to examine the extreme risk structures and its time-varying characteristics of the European carbon emissions trading market. The relevant results are threefold. (1) Significant extreme risk spillover effects exist between the carbon market and the stock, commodity, exchange rate, and interest rate markets, influenced by economic risks and geopolitical risks. (2) In the average extreme risk structure of the carbon market, aside from itself, geopolitical risks contribute the most, followed by the stock and commodity markets, while the contributions of the exchange rate and interest rate are relatively small, with economic risks exerting a slow and steadily increasing influence on extreme risks in the carbon market over the forecast period. (3) The extreme risk structure of the carbon market exhibits significant time-varying characteristics, with contributions from related extreme market risks, geopolitical risks, and economic risks showing significant variations during important periods such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war. These findings have implications for carbon market policymakers to manage extreme risks.
A systematic analysis of the global, regional, and national burden of fungal skin diseases from 1990 to 2021
Authors: Wang Hongping , Sun Fengjun , Wang Changquan , Ye Jin , Xia Peiyuan , Wang Wanneng , Wu Yaguang
Published: December 2024

Purpose

We aimed to assess the burden of Fungal Skin Diseases (FSD) in 2021 and explore the changing trends from 1990 to 2021 across different age groups and time periods.

Methods

This study extracted three key indicators of the burden of FSD from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study: prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The results were presented using point estimates and Uncertainty Intervals (UIs), and secondary analysis was conducted on these data to assess the changing trends in the burden of FSD using percentage change.

Results

In 2021, the global cases of prevalence, incidence, and DALYs of FSD were reported at 616.5 million, 1,729.2 million, and 3,429.5 thousand, respectively, an increase of approximately 68% since 1990. The age-standardized rates per 100,000 population for prevalence, incidence, and DALYs were 7,789.6, 21,668.4, and 43.4, respectively. These rates represent percentage increases of 6.21%, 3.74%, and 6.56% since 1990. In terms of age distribution, the ages for FSD-related prevalence, incidence, and DALYs peak cases globally were in the 5–9 age group, with distinct age groups observed in low and low-middle, middle, high-middle and high SDI regions at 5–9 years, 45–49 years, and 70–74 years, respectively.

Conclusion

Over the past 32 years, there has been a significant increase in the global burden of FSD. With improvements in the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI), the age groups for FSD-related peak cases are gradually shifting towards older age groups. This indicates the need to allocate healthcare resources rationally to address the challenges arising from the significant differences in geographic distribution, gender, and among different populations.
Advancements in lipid production research using the koji-mold Aspergillus oryzae and future outlook
Authors: Tamano Koichi
Published: December 2024

Research on enhancing the production of lipids, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids that are considered important for health, has focused on improvement of metabolism as well as heterologous expression of biosynthetic genes in the oleaginous fungus Aspergillus oryzae. To date, the productivity and production yield of free fatty acids have been enhanced by 10-fold to 90-fold via improvements in metabolism and optimization of culture conditions. Moreover, the productivity of ester-type fatty acids present in triacylglycerols could be enhanced via metabolic improvement. Culturing A. oryzae in a liquid medium supplemented with non-ionic surfactants could also lead to the effective release of free fatty acids from the cells. The current review highlights the advancements made in this field so far and discusses the future outlook for research on lipid production using A. oryzae. I hope the contents are useful for researchers in this field to consider the strategy of increasing production of various valuable metabolites as well as lipids in A. oryzae.
miR-210 loss leads to widespread phenotypic and gene expression changes in human 293T cells
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Meng Zhen , Yang Chengyong , Wang Chenghao , Zhang Kexin , Shi Anxin , Guo Jingjing , Feng Yong , Zeng Yan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Hypoxia responses are critical for myriad physiological and pathological processes, such as development, tissue repair, would healing, and tumorigenesis. microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that exert their functions by inhibiting the expression of their target genes, and miR-210 is the miRNA universally and most conspicuously upregulated by hypoxia in mammalian systems. For its relationship to hypoxia, miR-210 has been studied extensively, yet no consensus exists on the roles and mechanisms of miR-210 in human physiological processes or diseases, and we know little about genuine miR-210 target genes in humans.

Methods

To better investigate the functions and mechanisms of human miR-210, therefore, we derived the human miR-210 gene knockout (KO) 293T cell lines using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. We then examined the cellular phenotypes and gene expression profiles of 293T cells under normoxia and hypoxia conditions.

Results and Discussion

We found that the loss of miR-210 altered a variety of cellular phenotypes including proliferation and apoptosis. Subsequent global gene expression analyses identified plausible mechanisms underlying these phenotypic changes in 293T cells. In particular, we showed that miR-210 might target the expression of BNIP3L as a potential mechanism to suppress apoptosis. Surprisingly, the mRNA levels of most previously reported miR-210 target genes were not induced upon miR-210 KO, suggesting a need to reexamining and studying human miR-210 functions directly and comprehensively. Thus, our work established a human cellular system and opportunity to unravel the complexity of the regulatory networks by miR-210.
Prevalence of unintended pregnancy and associated factors among pregnant women with disabilities in Ethiopia: from the social model of disability perspective
Authors: Anshebo Abebe Alemu , Larebo Yilma Markos , Behera Sujit , Gopalan Natarajan
Published: December 2024

Background

In low-income countries, women with disabilities face numerous challenges in accessing sexual and reproductive health services and experience high unintended pregnancy rates and adverse pregnancy outcomes, with 42% of cases ending in abortion. However, little is known about unintended pregnancy among women with disabilities in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of unintended pregnancy and associated factors among women with disabilities in the Central Regional State of Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024, and multistage random sampling was used to enroll 572 study participants. The sample size was proportionally allocated to each zone, district and kebele. The Kobo Toolbox was used for data collection and cleaning, and the Statistical Package for Social Science version 26 was used for analysis. The multivariable analysis was used to identify the factors significantly associated with unintended pregnancy using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR), a 95% confidence interval (CI), and a p-value less than 0.05.

Results

The prevalence of unintended pregnancy was 43.8% (95% CI: 39.5, 47.8) in the Central Ethiopia Regional State, Ethiopia. The significantly associated factors were household size (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI: 2.6, 7.9), awareness of pregnancy intention (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI:1.4, 4.1), domestic violence (AOR = 5.9, 95% CI: 3.4, 10.4), accessibility of service (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2, 5.4), discrimination by care providers (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.5, 2.9), disability-unfriendly health facility structure (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2, 2.40), and negative community attitudes (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.7, 4.3). The overall direction of the associated variables’ effect was positive.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the need for disability-inclusive and sensitive healthcare services. Therefore, to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare targeted under the Sustainable Development Goals, the Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Ministry of Health, Regional Health Bureau, and health facilities authorities should pay attention to improving awareness on pregnancy intention and domestic violence and ensuring accessible, inclusive, and equitable maternal health care for women with disabilities.
Impact of Janus kinase inhibitors and methotrexate on interstitial lung disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Kurushima Shota , Koga Tomohiro , Umeda Masataka , Iwamoto Naoki , Miyashita Ritsuko , Tokito Takatomo , Okuno Daisuke , Yura Hirokazu , Ishimoto Hiroshi , Kido Takashi , Sakamoto Noriho , Ueki Yukitaka , Mukae Hiroshi , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Little is known about how various treatments impact the progression of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Here, we compared ILD progression in RA patients treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) or biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). In vitro experiments were also performed to evaluate the potential effects of the drugs on epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key event in pulmonary fibrosis.

Methods

This retrospective study included 93 RA-ILD patients who initiated treatment with JAKi, tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi), or abatacept between 2017 and 2020. Worsening ILD was quantified by changes in chest computed tomography (CT) scans between baseline and follow-up (mean 14 months, range 6–51 months). Response to treatment was evaluated using Disease Activity Score-28 with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28-ESR). Expression of the EMT marker N-cadherin in A549 lung cells was assessed by western blotting.

Results and discussion

Worsening ILD was detected in 19.4% (7/36), 16.7% (5/30), and 22.2% (6/27) of patients treated with JAKi, abatacept, and TNFi, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified female gender (P=0.043) and >10% fibrotic lesions (P=0.015) as significant predictors of worsening ILD. DAS28-ESR-based non-responder status was also significantly associated with worsening ILD (P=0.0085). In vitro, combination treatment with methotrexate and baricitinib significantly impeded EMT progression. Worsening ILD was associated with more extensive fibrotic lesions at baseline and female gender in RA patients treated with JAKi or bDMARDs. JAKi and methotrexate co-treatment may prove beneficial in modifying key events underlying the pathogenesis of RA-ILD.
Magnitude and associated factors of preoperative anemia among adult elective surgical patients at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024
Authors: Biset Wondimnew Mersha , Nasser Nura , Tolu Lemi Belay , Tsega Nuhamin Tesfa , Abraha Mebratu
Published: December 2024

Background

Preoperative anemia is a common hematologic public health problem among elective surgical patients. Preoperative anemia complications independently increase the risk of perioperative complications and mortality rate. Despite this complication, there is a scarcity of evidence on the prevalence and associated factors of preoperative anemia among adult elective surgical patients in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the magnitude and associated factors of preoperative anemia among adult elective surgical patients at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1 to 30, 2024 at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select eligible study participants. Chart review and a structured, pretested, and interviewer-administered questionnaire were employed. Kobo toolbox was used to collect the data and exported to SPSS version 25 software for data cleaning, coding, and analysis. Binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with preoperative anemia. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with its 95% CI and a p-value of ≤0.05 was used to declare a statistical association.

Results

A total of 247 study participants were included in the analysis, giving a response rate of 98.8%. Majority (68%) of the participants were from urban areas. The median age of the patient was 38 (IQR ± 32) years. The magnitude of preoperative anemia was found to be 27.1% (95% CI: 21.9, 33.1). Being female (AOR = 3.44; 95%CI: 1.53, 7.73), being overweight (AOR = 0.26; 95%CI: 0.10, 0.88), and having infection and injury/trauma as indications for surgery (AOR = 4.59; 95%CI: 1.62, 12.96) and (AOR = 3.58; 95%CI: 1.35, 9.49) were significantly associated with preoperative anemia.

Conclusion

In this study, more than one-fourth of the study participants had preoperative anemia. To decrease this public health problem, it is better to screen at risk patients, specifically females and trauma patients during the preoperative visit and disseminate information about a healthy diet and the prevention and treatment of anemia through health education.
Risk stratification and contributing factors of deep vein thrombosis among patients admitted at Debre Markos comprehensive specialized hospital, Ethiopia in 2024
Authors: Mitiku Haymanot Zeleke , Assefa Addis Birtukan , Edmealem Afework , Tsegaye Dejen , Biyazin Yalemgeta , Abate Abebe
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Deep vein thrombosis is a serious condition and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Studies conducted in various hospitals in Ethiopia have reported that the prevalence rates of deep vein thrombosis range from approximately 5–10% among hospitalized patients. The risk stratification of deep vein thrombosis and the identification of associated risk factors are critical for assessing deep vein thrombosis in hospital settings. Wells scoring provides a valuable framework for assessing individual risk. This study aims to assess the risk stratification of deep vein thrombosis and to identify the risk factors among patients admitted at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Method

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024. The study included 423 adult patients, and the data were collected using a structured questionnaire and chart review. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was conducted after performing the model test.

Result

The prevalence of deep vein thrombosis was found to be 7.9%, with 44.2% categorized as having no risk, 8.1% as moderate risk, and 47.7% as high risk for deep vein thrombosis stratification. Various risk factors, such as regular alcohol consumption (odd ratio 4.59, p = 0.032), a previous history of deep vein thrombosis (odd ratio 28.32, p = 0.000), the presence of a central catheter (odd ratio 12.92, p = 0.000), a severe lipid profile (odd ratio 3.8, p = 0.001), and a longer duration of stay in the ward (odd ratio 1.28, p = 0.000), were significantly associated with high risk for deep vein thrombosis stratification.

Conclusion

The prevalence of high-risk deep vein thrombosis stratification was found to be high, and the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis was also high within this risk group. Regular alcohol consumption, a previous history of deep vein thrombosis, the presence of a central catheter, a severe lipid profile, and a longer duration of stay in the ward were statistically significant for high-risk deep vein thrombosis stratification. This study highlights the importance of identifying patients who are at high risk for deep vein thrombosis stratification and addressing the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis stratification.
MDA5-positive dermatomyositis without muscle weakness and rash: a case report and literature review
Authors: Xiao Ping-Ping , Fan Wei , Chen Xu-Yan , Li Ke-Cong , Li Ting-Ting , Dong Zhi-Gao
Published: December 2024

Melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5)-positive dermatomyositis (DM) is a rare systemic autoimmune disease associated with a high rate of mortality attributable to rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease. MDA5-positive DM is often complicated by a typical rash and muscle weakness. Herein, we describe a 50-year-old woman who presented with worsening pulmonary symptoms with an absence of typical clinical characteristics. We also review the treatments and prognosis made in similar cases, highlighting that closer attention should be paid to patients presenting with atypical DM, particularly when clinical manifestations such as rash and muscle weakness are not apparent.
Physical activity and risk of cholelithiasis: a narrative review
Authors: Ye Zhen , Xie Jinkun , Ni Xiao , Yang Jiyong , Li Jiong , Xuan Yujun , Gu Honggang
Published: December 2024

Cholelithiasis, commonly known as gallstone disease, poses a significant public health concern globally, with a myriad of risk factors contributing to its development. Among these, lifestyle factors, particularly physical activity, have garnered considerable attention for their potential role in modulating the risk of gallstone formation. This review aims to synthesize the current landscape of physical activity and the risk of developing cholelithiasis and identify knowledge gaps. To identify relevant articles, an independent author conducted a literature search using the PubMed database including keywords “cholelithiasis,” “gallstones,” and “physical activity” with no restriction on publication date. Cohort studies or Mendelian randomization analyses that reported physical activity and risk of gallstone disease were included in the current review. 15 articles were included in this review. The review highlights evidence suggesting a protective effect of regular physical activity against the development of gallstones. Results of Mendelian randomization analyses similarly demonstrated that physical activity remains independently causally associated with cholelithiasis. This review underscores the potential of physical activity as a modifiable risk factor for cholelithiasis, advocating for further research to establish definitive guidelines for prevention through lifestyle modification.
Difficult-to-treat psoriatic arthritis: refining the definition using a statistical model in a real-life cohort
Authors: Favalli Ennio Giulio , Biganzoli Giacomo , Cincinelli Gilberto , Ferrito Matteo , Luconi Ester , Manara Maria , Biggioggero Martina , Boracchi Patrizia , Caporali Roberto
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The study aims to evaluate the applicability of the D2T psoriatic arthritis (PsA) definition, adapted from rheumatoid arthritis, within a single-center observational cohort of PsA patients treated with b/tsDMARDs. In addition, we aimed to establish a numerical index defining D2T-PsA based on the ratio of observed to expected failed b/tsDMARDs and to develop a predictive model identifying features associated with the D2T condition.

Methods

The study included 267 consecutive adult PsA patients receiving b/tsDMARDs, collecting demographic, clinical, and clinimetric data. The prevalence of D2T PsA patients was assessed using a proposed definition. We then developed a predictive model to assess treatment difficulty, utilizing PsA-normalized failed b/tsDMARDs. A generalized linear model was applied to identify clinical and demographic features associated with D2T PsA, employing a bagging procedure for robust variable selection, followed by univariate and multivariable analyses.

Results

Among the 267 patients, only 8 of them (2.9%) met the proposed D2T PsA criteria. In a subset of 177 patients analyzed using the predictive model, 17.2% of them demonstrated higher treatment difficulty. Univariate analysis revealed associations between treatment difficulty and female sex, psoriasis pattern, fibromyalgia, and steroid therapy. Multivariate analysis confirmed significant associations between fibromyalgia, nail and pustular psoriasis, and steroid use.

Conclusion

According to the predictive model, the proposed D2T PsA definition identified a small subset of patients with increased treatment difficulty. These findings highlight the need for refining the criteria to better define D2T PsA patients, providing valuable insights into managing complex treatment challenges in PsA.
Inhibition of biofilm formation and preformed biofilm in Acinetobacter baumannii by resveratrol, chlorhexidine and benzalkonium: modulation of efflux pump activity
Authors: Migliaccio Antonella , Stabile Maria , Triassi Maria , Dé Emmanuelle , De Gregorio Eliana , Zarrilli Raffaele
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The persistence of Acinetobacter baumannii in the contaminated environment is sustained by tolerance to biocides and ability to growth as biofilm. The aim of the study was to analyze the susceptibility of A. baumannii biofilms to chlorhexidine (CHX) and benzalkonium (BZK) biocides and the ability of natural monomeric stilbenoid resveratrol (RV) to modulate the phenomenon.

Methods

Biofilm formation and preformed biofilm were tested by Crystal violet and tetrazolium salt reduction assay, respectively. Analysis of efflux pump (EP) expression during biofilm growth was performed by Real-time RT-PCR assays.

Results

CHX and BZK at ¼ and ½ MICs alone or in combination inhibited biofilm growth of A. baumannii ATCC 19606, 4190, and 3909 strains. RV at 32 mg/L and CHX and BZK at ¼ or ½ MICs showed a synergistic effect and completely inhibited biofilm formation in all A. baumannii strains. Similarly, RV at 32 mg/L and CHX and BZK at ½ MIC significantly inhibited air-liquid biofilm formation of A. baumannii ATCC 19606, 4190 and 3909 strains. The inactivation of AdeB and AdeJ RND EPs in A. baumannii ATCC19606 increased the susceptibility to CHX and BZK alone or in the presence of 32 mg/L RV. Concordantly, carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazine (CCCP) increased the susceptibility to CHX, BZK and RV and dose-dependently inhibited biofilm formation in A. baumannii ATCC 19606, 4190 and 3909 strains. RV at 32 mg/L inhibited basal and CHX-induced EP genes expression, while increased EP gene expression in the presence of BZK during A. baumannii ATCC19606 biofilm growth. In addition, CHX and BZK alone or in combination dose-dependently reduced preformed biofilm of all A. baumannii strains. The combination of RV with CHX and BZK additively decreased minimal biofilm eradicating concentrations in A. baumannii strains.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that: (i) CHX and BZK alone or in the presence of RV inhibit biofilm growth and preformed biofilm in A. baumannii; (ii) tolerance to CHX and BZK during biofilm growth is dependent on the activation of AdeB and AdeJ EPs; and (iii) the inhibitory effect of RV on biofilm growth is mediated by the inhibition of EP genes expression in A. baumannii.