bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of different lactic acid bacteria on nitrite degradation and quality of fermented carrot
Authors: Li Meng‐Na , Yao Qing‐Bo , Zhang Hong‐Rui , Li Wen‐Qi , Nie Jing , Liang Qi‐Chun , Wang Lang‐Hong , Zeng Xin‐An , Huang Yan‐Yan
Published: August 2024

In this study, six groups of carrots were designed and fermented using Weissella paramensenteroides MbWp142 (WP), Levilactobacillus brevis GDMCC 1.773 (LS), Leuconostoc mesenteroides GDMCC 1.774 (SE), mixed fermentation of three lactic acid bacteria (WP + LS + SE), pasteurisation group (BG) and natural fermentation group (CK). GC–MS results indicated that inoculation of WP + LS + SE increased the types and contents of flavour substances such as alcohols, esters and hydrocarbons. Compared with other experimental groups, the peak nitrite value in the LS group was lower due to the production of organic acids by lactic acid bacteria. Sensory evaluation revealed that the quality and flavour of carrot fermented by LS were superior to those fermented by SE, WP and WP + LS + SE. Therefore, Levilactobacillus brevis used as a starter for fermenting carrot can enhance product quality and reduce nitrite accumulation during fermentation.
PLCL/SF/NGF nerve conduit loaded with RGD‐TA‐PPY hydrogel promotes regeneration of sciatic nerve defects in rats through PI3K/AKT signalling pathways
Authors: Liu Kunyu , Tang Weilong , Jin Shixin , Hao Xin , Hu Yuhang , Zhou Tianyi , Zhou Chenliang , Chen Guanghua , Cui Yifeng , Liu Qianqi , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: August 2024

Peripheral nerve defect are common clinical problem caused by trauma or other diseases, often leading to the loss of sensory and motor function in patients. Autologous nerve transplantation has been the gold standard for repairing peripheral nerve defects, but its clinical application is limited due to insufficient donor tissue. In recent years, the application of tissue engineering methods to synthesize nerve conduits for treating peripheral nerve defect has become a current research focus. This study introduces a novel approach for treating peripheral nerve defects using a tissue‐engineered PLCL/SF/NGF@TA‐PPy‐RGD conduit. The conduit was fabricated by combining electrospun PLCL/SF with an NGF‐loaded conductive TA‐PPy‐RGD gel. The gel, synthesized from RGD‐modified tannic acid (TA) and polypyrrole (PPy), provides growth anchor points for nerve cells. In vitro results showed that this hybrid conduit could enhance PC12 cell proliferation, migration, and reduce apoptosis under oxidative stress. Furthermore, the conduit activated the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway in PC12 cells. In a rat model of sciatic nerve defect, the PLCL/SF/NGF@TA‐PPy‐RGD conduit significantly improved motor function, gastrocnemius muscle function, and myelin sheath axon thickness, comparable to autologous nerve transplantation. It also promoted angiogenesis around the nerve defect. This study suggests that PLCL/SF/NGF@TA‐PPy‐RGD conduits provide a conducive environment for nerve regeneration, offering a new strategy for peripheral nerve defect treatment, this study provided theoretical basis and new strategies for the research and treatment of peripheral nerve defect.
Influence of viscosity and fiber reinforcement of resin composite on fracture strength and failure mode of restored molars
Authors: Borges Karin Tyeme , Servín María Paz Méndez , França Fabiana Mantovani Gomes , Turssi Cecilia Pedroso , Basting Roberta Tarkany , Hirata Ronaldo , Vieira‐Junior Waldemir Francisco
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the fracture behavior of human molars with extensive MOD restorations using short‐fiber‐reinforced resin composite of varying viscosities.

Materials and Methods

Human molars were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 12): intact teeth (control); restoration using conventional high‐viscosity resin composite without (Filtek Z350XT, 3M) or with fibers (everX Posterior, GC); conventional low‐viscosity resin composite without (Filtek Supreme Flowable, 3M) or with fibers (everX Flow Dentin Shade, GC); bulk‐fill low‐viscosity resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill Flow, 3M) or with fibers (everX Flow Bulk Shade, GC). Restorations were performed on extensive MOD preparations, following the manufacturers' recommendations for each material. Specimens underwent fracture strength testing (N) and fracture pattern (%) categorized as repairable, possibly repairable, or non‐repairable. Results were analyzed using a generalized linear model (N) and Fisher's exact test (%), with α = 0.05.

Results

Restorations performed with high‐viscosity materials showed fracture strength values similar to the control and higher than those of restorations using low‐viscosity resin composites (p < 0.0001), except for the bulk‐fill low‐viscosity resin composite with fibers (p > 0.05). Teeth restored using low‐viscosity resin composite with fibers showed a higher % of repairable and possibly repairable fractures than the control (p = 0.0091).

Conclusions

The viscosity of materials mediated the fracture strength, with restorations using high‐viscosity resin composites promoting values similar to the intact tooth; however, the presence of fibers influenced the fracture pattern.

Clinical Significance

Teeth with MOD cavities restored with high‐viscosity resin composites showed similar fracture strength to intact teeth. Fiber‐reinforced low‐viscosity resin composite for the base of restoration resulted in a more repairable/possibly repairable fracture pattern.
Vulnerabilities of the neoliberal global food system: The Russia–Ukraine War and COVID‐19
Authors: Yıldırım Cuma , Önen Hakkı Göker
Published: August 2024

The coronavirus 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war have demonstrated that the neoliberal system is unstable during global crises. In times of crisis, exporter countries adopt protectionist policies in the form of export restrictions to safeguard their local food supply and curb inflation. Consequently, low‐income countries might find themselves unable to access essential food products. In this regard, the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war has gradually increased export restrictions, causing severe food supply disruptions. In particular, import‐dependent countries cannot access essential food products and face famine. To this point, this study explores the vulnerabilities of neoliberalism when exporter countries turn to protectionism. Moreover, it asks whether food sovereignty and self‐sufficiency could act as a safeguard for import‐dependent states against such vulnerabilities. In doing so, the study aims to contribute to the literature by linking protectionism with export restrictions, diverging from the more common association of protectionism with solely import restrictions.
Healthy Lifestyles Modify the Association of Melatonin Receptor 1B Gene and Ischemic Stroke: A Family‐Based Cohort Study in Northern China
Authors: Guo Huangda , Peng Hexiang , Wang Siyue , Hou Tianjiao , Li Yixin , Zhang Hanyu , Jiang Jin , Ma Bohao , Wang Mengying , Wu Yiqun , Qin Xueying , Tang Xun , Chen Dafang , Li Jing , Hu Yonghua , Wu Tao
Published: August 2024

Limited research has reported the association between MTNR1B gene polymorphisms and ischemic stroke (IS), and there is insufficient evidence on whether adopting a healthy lifestyle can mitigate genetic risks in this context. This study aimed to investigate the associations between MTNR1B gene variants (rs10830963 and rs1387153) and IS, examining the potential effect of gene–lifestyle interactions on IS risk. Conducted in northern China, this family‐based cohort study involved 5116 initially IS‐free subjects. Genotype data for rs10830963 and rs1387153 in MTNR1B were collected. Eight modifiable lifestyle factors, including body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, dietary habits, physical activity, sedentary time, sleep duration, and chronotype, were considered in calculating healthy lifestyle scores. Multilevel Cox models were used to examine the associations between MTNR1B variants and IS. Participants carrying the rs10830963‐G and rs1387153‐T alleles exhibited an elevated IS risk. Each additional rs10830963‐G allele and rs1387153‐T allele increased the IS risk by 36% (HR = 1.36, 95% CI, 1.12–1.65) and 32% (HR = 1.32, 95% CI, 1.09–1.60), respectively. Participants were stratified into low, medium, and high healthy lifestyle score groups (1537, 2188, and 1391 participants, respectively). Genetic–lifestyle interactions were observed for rs10830963 and rs1387153 (p for interaction < 0.001). Notably, as the healthy lifestyle score increased, the effect of MTNR1B gene variants on IS risk diminished (p for trend < 0.001). This study underscores the association between the MTNR1B gene and IS, emphasizing that adherence to a healthy lifestyle can mitigate the genetic predisposition to IS.
Flagellar protein FliL: A many‐splendored thing
Authors: Partridge Jonathan D. , Harshey Rasika M.
Published: August 2024

FliL is a bacterial flagellar protein demonstrated to associate with, and regulate ion flow through, the stator complex in a diverse array of bacterial species. FliL is also implicated in additional functions such as stabilizing the flagellar rod, modulating rotor bias, sensing the surface, and regulating gene expression. How can one protein do so many things? Its location is paramount to understanding its numerous functions. This review will look at the evidence, attempt to resolve some conflicting findings, and offer new thoughts on FliL.
Psychogastroenterology of cyclic vomiting syndrome: A crucial need to build evidence
Authors: Tarbell Sally E. , van Tilburg Miranda A. L.
Published: August 2024

Cyclic vomiting is a disorder of gut brain interaction (DGBI) emphasizing the need for treatment of both the brain and the gut. Despite clinical success of psychological therapies for CVS, also called brain‐gut treatments, an evidence‐base is lacking and these treatments are available in few GI practices. This has resulted in an “all guts no brain” approach to CVS. The current paper is a call to action to develop more evidence and use of brain‐gut therapies in CVS.
Macrovibrissae and microvibrissae inversion and lateralization in elephants
Authors: Yildiz Hazal , Heise Olivia , Gerhardt Ben , Fritsch Guido , Becker Rolf , Ochs Andreas , Sicks Florian , Buss Peter , de Klerk‐Lorist Lin‐Mari , Hildebrandt Thomas , Brecht Michael
Published: August 2024

Elephants are known for strongly lateralized trunk behaviors, but the mechanisms driving elephant lateralization are poorly understood. Here, we investigate features of elephant mouth organization that presumably promote lateralization. We find the lower jaw of elephants is of narrow width, but is rostrally strongly elongated even beyond the jaw bone. Elephant lip vibrissae become progressively longer rostrally. Thus, elephants have two lateral dense, short microvibrissae arrays and central, less dense long macrovibrissae. This is an inversion of the ancestral mammalian facial vibrissae pattern, where central, dense short microvibrissae are flanked by two lateral macrovibrissae arrays. Elephant microvibrissae have smaller follicles than macrovibrissae. Similar to trunk‐tip vibrissae, elephant lip microvibrissae show laterally asymmetric abrasion. Observations on Asian zoo elephants indicate lateralized abrasion results from lateralized feeding. It appears that the ancestral mammalian mouth (upper and lower lips, incisors, frontal microvibrissae) is shaped by oral food apprehension. The elephant mouth organization radically changed, however, because trunk‐mediated feeding replaced oral apprehension. Such elephant mouth changes include the upper lip–nose fusion to the trunk, the super‐flexible elongated lower jaw, the loss of incisors, and lateral rather than frontal microvibrissae. Elephants’ specialization for lateral food insertion is reflected by the reduction in the centering effects of oral food apprehension and lip vibrissae patterns.
Evaluation of palate morphology in patients treated with leaf expander and hyrax expander: A geometric morphometric analysis
Authors: Silvestrini‐Biavati Francesca , Oliva Giorgio , Ghislanzoni Luis Huanca , Ottonelli Elisa , Dalessandri Domenico , Lanteri Valentina , Ugolini Alessandro
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in shape of the palatal vault after maxillary expansion with hyrax expander (HE) and leaf expander (LE), using 3D Geometric Morphometric Analysis.

Setting and Sample Population

Overall, 250 patients (110 M, 140 F) with maxillary transverse deficiency were selected for this study. In this study, 127 subjects were treated with HE, 123 with LE.

Materials and Methods

Digital dental models were obtained pre‐treatment (T0) and after 12 months from the cementation of the device (T1) and processed by means of a digital scanner. Linear and morphometric analyses were conducted to determine the effects of each appliance on dental measurements and palatal shape, and a multiple linear regression was performed to analyse the influence of anchorage and appliance type on final shape.

Results

Morphometric analysis showed that there was a lowering of the palatal vault in the HE group, while in the LE group it remained unchanged: the difference in palatal shape at time T0 and T1 was statistically significant in both treatments (HE vs. LE). In the HE group, the change in shape also included the upper part of the palatal vault in the vertical dimension, while in the LE group the change in shape interested mainly palatal shelves and the lower portion of the palate.

Conclusions

Both LE and HE produce clinically significant changes in the morphology of the palatal vault.
Characteristics of sialolithiasis in Israel, a big‐data retrospective study of 5100 cases
Authors: Jonas Ehud , Muchnik Daniel , Rabinovich Idan , Masri Daya , Chaushu Gavriel , Avishai Gal
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for sialolithiasis patients using a large community and hospital‐based cohort.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study was conducted on 20,396 individuals, including 5100 sialolithiasis patients and 15,296 matched controls. Demographics and laboratory data were obtained from electronic medical records. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant differences between the two groups. A p‐value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Sialolithiasis was more prevalent in women, with a mean age at diagnosis of 55.75 years. Several geographic location variables emerged as risk factors for sialolithiasis including Israeli birth, higher socioeconomic communities, and specific areas of residency. Tobacco smoking (odds ratio = 1.46) was a significant risk factor. Low high‐density lipoprotein levels, elevated triglycerides, and elevated amylase levels were associated with sialolithiasis.

Conclusions

This study provides valuable insights into the demographic and laboratory characteristics of sialolithiasis patients, indicating that area of residency and lifestyle factors contribute to the risk of developing sialolithiasis. The findings may contribute to a better understanding of the disease and the development of preventative measures or early diagnostics tools.
High‐density single nucleotide polymorphism‐based linkage mapping reveals novel quantitative trait loci for rice (Oryza sativa) sheath blight resistance from wild rice (Oryza rufipogon)‐derived introgression line
Authors: Senapati Manoranjan , Tiwari Ajit , Vinod Kunnummal Kurungara , Bashyal Bishnu Maya , Amaresh  , Nagarajan Mariappan , Dhawan Gaurav , Gowda Munegowda Manoj , Ellur Ranjith Kumar , Bhowmick Prolay Kumar , Bollinedi Haritha , Singh Ashok Kumar , Subbaiyan Gopala Krishnan
Published: August 2024

Rice sheath blight is one of the most important fungal disease‐causing yield losses up to 50%. An Oryza rufipogon‐derived introgression line (Pusa 1908‐13‐12‐5) identified to be highly resistant to sheath blight was used for developing a RIL population by crossing with a highly susceptible rice cultivar, Pusa Basmati 1 (PB 1). The RIL population was genotyped with 80K Rice Pangenome (RPAN) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array and phenotyped for disease response under artificial inoculation for 2 consecutive years. Inclusive composite interval mapping could identify six quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for two traits, namely, relative lesion height and relative yield loss per plant. Among these QTLs, four were major QTLs and three are novel QTLs. Three major QTLs were co‐localised within 1.4 Mb region on chromosome 1. In silico analysis revealed the presence of 12 candidate genes with potential role in disease resistance. Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP™) assay was developed for the linked SNPs and used for validation in an independent BC1F2:3 population (PB 1121/Pusa 1908‐13‐12‐5). One SNP (AX‐182186537) on chromosome 1 was validated, which offers scope for its utilisation in marker‐assisted breeding.
Plasmonic nanophotothermal therapy: Destruction of 500 mm3 subcutaneous human basal cell carcinoma with gold nanoparticles and near infrared laser
Authors: Pesnel Sabrina , Bertolotti Antoine , Duquenne Sébastien , Zahouani Hassan , Mortier Laurent , Perrot Jean‐Luc , Morel Anne‐Laure
Published: August 2024

Significance

Multilesional basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are spread on sun exposed skin areas, including arms, face and back. The first‐line treatment remains the surgical resection or Mohs surgery. Despite its high complexity, Mohs surgery is well practiced in USA and Germany and presents very good results both in esthetic and in carcinology point of view.

Large lesions more than 2 cm remain challenging to remove by topical cream used in photodynamic therapy (PDT). If these larger lesions are not treated in less than 1 month, they could grow deeply in the skin, thus enhancing the risk of reoccurrence and the severity of the disease. Despite this model herein studied, that is non melanoma skin cancer is a good prognostic cancer, the therapy aims to be applied to more aggressive melanoma skin cancers.

Aim

Total regression of large cutaneous lesions less than 1 month with no reoccurrence.

Approach

Tumor induction on murine model bearing a 500 mm3 subcutaneous lesion. Increasing dose of gold nanoparticles at fixed initial concentration C0 = 0.3 mg/mL, infused into the tumor then exposition of the region of interest to NIR medical laser to assess the therapy. One or two intratumoral administration(s) were compared to surgery and control, that is no treatment, laser alone or nanoparticles alone.

Results

Gold nanoparticles alone or the NIR laser alone did not induce the tumor regression. The combination of laser and nanoparticles called plasmonic nanophotothermal therapy induced apoptosis. Derma and hypoderm do not show any visible gold nanoparticles and demonstrated a good cicatrization process.

Conclusion

Plasmonic nanophotothermal therapy using two doses of gold nanoparticles was the only protocol that proved its efficacy on large lesions in 14 days, that is 500 mm3 on a murine model bearing human basal cell carcinoma.
Mapping as a collective and southern practice
Authors: Bhan Gautam
Published: August 2024

This reflective paper describes a relationship to mapping as a collective and southern practice. Using examples from the author's own involvement in collective map‐making practices based in New Delhi, the paper roots mapping in the context of southern urbanisms, taking examples of informal housing, work, and workplaces to debate the role of mapping vis‐à‐vis the desire for either more or less visibility. It then argues that mapping must reflect prevailing rationalities of governance and power, thinking about both why we make maps and who makes maps. Finally, it suggests that mapping as a process must extend from the making of a map to an active engagement in how it circulates and is read. The paper suggests the author's own experience with collective political formations as a possible institutional form that can hold such an approach to mapping.
Regularity of limit sets of Anosov representations
Authors: Zhang Tengren , Zimmer Andrew
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we establish necessary and sufficient conditions for the limit set of a projective Anosov representation to be a ‐submanifold of the real projective space for some . We also calculate the optimal value of in terms of the eigenvalue data of the Anosov representation.
Performance of blood enterovirus and parechovirus polymerase chain reaction testing in young febrile infants: a prospective multicentre observational study
Authors: Alonso-Cadenas Jose Antonio , Velasco Roberto , Clerigué Arrieta Nuria , Amasorrain Urrutia Jone , Suarez-Bustamante Huélamo Maria , Mintegi Santiago , Gomez Borja
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To analyse the performance of blood enterovirus and parechovirus PCR testing (ev-PCR) for invasive bacterial infection (IBI) (isolation of a single bacterial pathogen in a blood or cerebrospinal fluid culture) when evaluating well-appearing infants ≤90 days of age with fever without a source (FWS).

Methods

We describe the well-appearing infants ≤90 days of age with FWS and normal urine dipstick. We performed a prospective, observational multicentre study at five paediatric emergency departments between October 2020 and September 2023.

Results

A total of 656 infants were included, 22 (3.4%) of whom were diagnosed with an IBI (bacteraemia in all of them and associated with meningitis in four). The blood ev-PCR test was positive in 145 (22.1%) infants. One patient with positive blood ev-PCR was diagnosed with an IBI, accounting for 0.7% (95% CI 0.02 to 3.8) compared with 4.1% (95% CI 2.6 to 6.2) in those with a negative test (p=0.04). All four patients with bacterial meningitis had a negative blood ev-PCR result. Infants with a positive blood ev-PCR had a shorter hospital stay (median 3 days, IQR 2–4) compared with 4 days (IQR 2–6) for those with negative blood ev-PCR (p=0.02), as well as shorter duration of antibiotic treatment (median 2 days, IQR 0–4 vs 2.5 days, IQR 0–7, p=0.01).

Conclusions

Young febrile infants with a positive blood ev-PCR are at a low risk of having an IBI. Incorporating the blood ev-PCR test into clinical decision-making may help to reduce the duration of antibiotic treatments and length of hospital stay.
Early screening for foot problems in people with diabetes is the need of the hour: ‘Save the Feet and Keep Walking Campaign’ in India
Authors: Viswanathan Vijay , Gupta Amit , Devarajan Arutselvi , Kumpatla Satyavani , Shukla Sharvari , Agarwal Sanjay , Makkar Brij Mohan , Saboo Banshi , Kumar Vasanth , Sahay Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Evidence on the prevalence of foot problems among people with diabetes in India at a national level is lacking. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the burden of high-risk (HR) feet in people with diabetes across India.

Research design and methods

A cross-sectional national-level project ‘Save the Feet and Keep Walking’ campaign was conducted by the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) from July 10, 2022 to August 10, 2022. A modified version of 3 min foot examination was used to assess the foot problems. Around 10 000 doctors with RSSDI membership were trained online to conduct foot screening and provided a standardised monofilament for detection of loss of protective sensation. People with diabetes aged >18 years who visited the clinics during the study period were examined for foot problems. Data were collected online using the semi-structured questionnaire. A total of 33 259 participants with complete information were included for the final analysis. The foot at risk was categorised based on International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot guidelines 2023.

Results

Nearly 75% of the participants were aged above 45 years. Around 49% had diabetes duration >5 years and uncontrolled diabetes (hemoglobin A1c >8%). Presence of history of foot ulcer (20%), lower limb amputation (15.3%), foot deformities (24.5%) and absence of diminished dorsal pedis and posterior tibial pulses (26.4%) was noted in the study participants. Around 25.2% of them had HR feet and highly prevalent among males. Diabetic kidney and retinal complications were present in 70% and 75.5% of people with HR feet. Presence of heel fissures (OR (95% CI) 4.6 (4.2 to 5.1)) and callus or corns (OR (95% CI) 3.6 (3.3 to 4.0)) were significantly associated with HR feet.

Conclusions

One-fourth of people with diabetes were found to have HR feet in India. The findings are suggestive of regular screening of people with diabetes for foot problems and strengthening of primary healthcare.
Cardioembolic stroke in an HIV endemic region: underdiagnosed and severe
Authors: Sadiq Eitzaz , Woodiwiss Angela , Norton Gavin , Modi Girish
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives

Cardioembolic stroke (CES) appears to be a rare cause of stroke (4%–9%) in people living with HIV (PLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, due to limited access to diagnostic resources, this may be an underestimate. It is also unclear which cardiac pathologies are the major contributors to CES in this region. We sought to determine the prevalence and aetiology of CES in PLWH and to determine whether there are any differences compared with HIV negative stroke patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study recruited PLWH with new-onset stroke at a quaternary-level hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 2014 to 2017, and compared them to age-matched and sex-matched HIV negative stroke patients. Comprehensive investigations were performed to determine the underlying stroke aetiology, including electrocardiography, echocardiography, CT angiography and cerebrospinal fluid examination.

Results

85 PLWH with ischaemic stroke were recruited and compared with 109 HIV negative controls. CES was identified in 17/85 (20.0%) of PLWH. These patients had more severe strokes than PLWH with non-CES (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 14.9±6.7 vs 11.7±5.4, p=0.04). Cardiomyopathy was the predominant cardiac pathology in PLWH (76.4% vs 45.5% in HIV negative, p=0.04) while valvulopathy was more common in HIV negative patients (42.4% vs 11.8% in PLWH, p=0.03). Arrhythmia (n=1) and ischaemic heart disease (n=1) were uncommon in PLWH.

Conclusion

CES is underdiagnosed in SSA and is more severe than non-CES. The identification of cardiomyopathy as the predominant underlying cardiac pathology may assist to target resources towards its detection using accessible cost-effective biomarkers.
Dietary variety score and risk of metabolic syndrome incidence: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Hosseini-Esfahani Firoozeh , Koochakpoor Glareh , Mirmiran Parvin , Hosseinpour-Niazi Somayeh , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: August 2024

Purpose

There are contradictions in the association between dietary variety and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The concept of dietary variety should be merged with other dietary recommendations including diet quality and proportion. We aimed to investigate the association of the healthy food diversity index with MetS and its components in Iranian adults.

Design/methodology/approach

In this prospective study, 4654 subjects (62.0%women) were chosen from participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. Diet was assessed based on a valid and reliable semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. The healthy food diversity index was based on 26 food groups extracted from the 2020 dietary guideline. MetS was defined based on the Iranian-modified National Cholesterol Education Programme and Adult Treatment Panel III.

Findings

The mean±SD ages of men and women were, respectively, 39.3±14.7and 36.1±12.1 years. The incident cases of MetS were 1129 during a median follow-up of 3.31 years. Participants in the top quartiles of diversity score had higher educational levels, also they were likely to be older, female and were less likely to be current smokers in comparison to those in the lower quartiles (p<0.05). After adjustment of potential confounders, participants in the top quartile of the healthy food diversity score had lower risk of hypertriglyceridaemia (HR 0.14; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.25) and high fasting blood glucose (FBG) (HR 0.11; 95%CI 0.02 to 0.21, P trend=0.004) in comparison to those in the lowest quartile. There was no significant association between the healthy food diversity score and risk of MetS and the other components of MetS after adjustment of confounding factors.

Originality

Increasing diversity score may be sufficient to reduce the risk of hypertriglyceridaemia and high FBG, but the healthy food diversity score is not associated with the risk of MetS incidence in the Tehranian population.
Postoperative chronic operation-related symptoms after minimally invasive lung surgery: a prospective observational protocol
Authors: Huang Yizhou , Chen Maohui , Wu Zhihui , Liu Peichang , Zhang Shuliang , Chen Chun , Zheng Bin
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Significant numbers of patients undergoing minimally invasive lung surgery develop chronic symptoms such as chronic pain and chronic cough after surgery, which may lead to a reduced quality of life (QoL). Despite this, there remains a dearth of high-quality prospective studies on this topic. Therefore, our study aims to systematically investigate the incidence and progression of long-term chronic symptoms following minimally invasive lung surgery, as well as changes in patient’s psychological status and long-term QoL.

Methods

This is a single-centre, observational, prospective study that included patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer or benign lesions. Prior to surgery, patients’ baseline levels of chronic pain, chronic cough and sleep will be documented. Anxiety, depression and QoL assessments will be conducted using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 30-item QoL Questionnaire (QLQ-C30). Following surgery, pain and cough will be evaluated during the initial 3 days using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and Visual Analogue Scale score, with assessments performed thrice daily. Additionally, sleep status will be recorded daily during this period. Subsequently, postoperative chronic symptoms and QoL will be assessed at weeks 1, 2, 4, 12, 26 and 52. Chronic cough will be evaluated using the Leicester Cough Questionnaire, chronic pain will be assessed via the Brief Pain Inventory and McGill Pain Questionnaire while the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire and HADS will provide continuous monitoring of QoL, anxiety and depression statuses. Data will also include the timing of chronic symptom onset, predisposing factors, as well as aggravating and relieving factors.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethics Committees of Fujian Medical University Union Hospital. The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

NCT06016881.
Implementation of time-limited parenteral hydromorphone in people with treatment-resistant injecting opioid use disorder: a protocol for a single-site, uncontrolled, open-label study to assess feasibility, safety and cost
Authors: Rodgers Craig , Siefried Krista J , Ritter Alison , Belackova Vendula , Treloar Carla , Jauncey Marianne , Ezard Nadine , Roberts Darren , Steele Maureen , van den Brink Willem , Strang John , Oviedo-Joekes Eugenia , Lintzeris Nicholas , Dunlop Adrian John , Bell James
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Supervised injectable opioid treatment (SIOT) is an evidence-based intervention targeting opioid-dependent people for whom existing treatments have been ineffective. This project will primarily assess the feasibility and the acceptability of time-limited SIOT using injectable hydromorphone delivered in an existing Australian public opioid treatment programme, with secondary outcomes of safety, cost, changes in drug use and other health outcomes. If feasible, the goal is to scale up the intervention to be more widely available in Australia.

Methods and analysis

Between 20 and 30 participants will be offered two times per day hydromorphone to inject under direct observation, in addition to their current opioid agonist treatment (OAT), for up to 2 years. At the end of 2 years of supervised hydromorphone treatment, participants will be continued on standard OAT only. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants included in the study. This is a single-site, uncontrolled, open-label study where quantitative and qualitative interview data will be collected at baseline, 12 months and lastly at 3 months following their final hydromorphone dose. The main outcome measures are feasibility, as assessed by recruitment, retention and participation in treatment, and acceptability to participants, clinic staff and other stakeholders assessed by qualitative interviews. Secondary outcome measures of safety, as assessed by adverse events, and cost will also be assessed, as well as a range of other drug and health outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

This study received ethical approval from the St Vincent’s Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (2019/ETH00418). This will be the first study of time-limited SIOT in the Australian setting. All results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals, scientific conferences and local practice meetings. A preliminary report on outcomes will also be presented to local health policy makers. A consumer and community forum will also be held to feedback results to a broader audience.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12621001729819.
Strategies to foster community engagement for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Issahaku Gyesi Razak , Fischer Hanna-Tina , Appiah-Brempong Emmanuel , Opoku Daniel , Hanefeld Johanna
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The surge of public health emergencies over the past decade has disproportionately affected sub-Saharan Africa. These include outbreaks of infectious diseases such as Ebola, Monkeypox and COVID-19. Experience has shown that community participation is key to the successful implementation of infection control activities. Despite the pivotal role community engagement plays in epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response activities, strategies to engage communities have been underexplored to date, particularly in sub-Sahara Africa. Furthermore, reviews conducted have not included evidence from the latest pandemic, COVID-19. This scoping review aims to address these gaps by documenting through available literature, the strategies for community engagement for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response in sub-Sahara Africa.

Methods and analysis

We will use the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews and the methodological framework for scoping reviews from Arksey and O�Malley to guide the review. Two reviewers will develop a systematic search strategy to identify articles published from January 2014 to date. We will retrieve peer-reviewed research published in the English language from databases including Embase, EBSCO-host, PubMed, Global Health, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Web of Science. Additionally, we will search for relevant grey literature from the websites of specific international organisations, public health institutes and Government Ministries of Health in African countries. After the removal of duplicates, the two reviewers will independently screen all titles, abstracts and full articles to establish the relevance of each study for inclusion in the review. We will extract data from the included articles using a data extraction tool and present the findings in tabular form with an accompanying narrative to aid comprehension.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for the conduct of scoping reviews. We plan to disseminate the findings from this review through publications in a peer-reviewed journal, presentations at conferences and meetings with policy-makers.
Assessment of economic burden due to COVID-19 pandemic during institutional childbirth in Nepal: before-and-after design
Authors: Basnet Omkar , Bhattarai Pratiksha , Malla Honey , Gurung Rejina , Paudel Prajwal , Sunny Avinash K , Målqvist Mats , KC Ashish
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in global health and economic stability. In Nepal, before the pandemic, more than 50% of healthcare costs were out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE). This study aimed to assess the OOPE for maternity care during before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in nine hospitals in Nepal.

Method

We conducted a before-and-after study between March 2019 and December 2020 with 13 months of prepandemic period and 9 months of pandemic period. OOPE was assessed using a semistructured interview with 53 864 women. Bivariate (unadjusted) and multivariate (adjusted) linear regression modelling was conducted to assess the change in OOPE in US dollar between the periods. Adjustment in linear regression model was done for population characteristics different between the periods.

Result

The OOPE for childbirth increased by 28.1% during pandemic, with an increase of OOPE from US$19.2 to S$23.9 (adjusted-β coefficient 5.4; 95% CI 4.5 to 5.7; p<0.0001). The OOPE of laboratory diagnosis increased by 15.3% for spontaneous birth during the pandemic (adjusted-β coefficient, 1.6; 95% CI 1.4 to 1.8; p<0.0001). OOPE increased by 29.8%, 40.0% and 10.3% for spontaneous vaginal birth, instrumental birth and caesarean section, respectively. The OOPE among the poorest family increased by 12.9%, and OOPE for richer family increased by 57.6% during the pandemic period.

Conclusion

OOPE for maternity care increased by more than 28% during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nepal. OOPE increased in all wealth quintile with marked rise in richer wealth quintile group. Mitigation efforts to secure affordable maternal healthcare services are required during pandemic.
Lived experiences and perspectives of women who had undergone perinatal loss in Nairobi county, Kenya: a qualitative study
Authors: Kaburu Emily Wanja , Aimakhu Christopher O , Kamau Thomas Matenjwa , Owor Michael Omondi
Published: August 2024

Background

This study explored the lived experiences and perspectives of women who had suffered a perinatal loss in Nairobi county, Kenya. Existing research works have established that perinatal loss often comes with a significant psychosocial burden, which has been made worse by negative cultural beliefs and practices. Despite this, perinatal loss grieving is rarely recognised or socially legitimated in many countries. This study aimed to shed light on the experiences of bereaved women to come up with effective interventions and combat the stigma associated with perinatal loss.

Methods

The study used a qualitative research design employing a descriptive phenomenological approach targeting women of reproductive age who had experienced perinatal loss within the previous 3 years. The study was conducted in three subcounties of Nairobi. Purposive sampling was used to identify and recruit 22 women to participate in focus group discussions. After the discussions, the audio recordings were transcribed, translated and analysed thematically. Triangulation was then done per thematic area to allow for a deeper understanding of the experiences and perceptions of the study participants.

Results

The research identified 3 themes and 7 subthemes: (1) ‘Psychosocial challenges of perinatal loss’ with five subthemes;—‘Emotional trauma and grief’, ‘Multiple losses and reproductive pressure’, ‘Broken relationships,’ ‘Violence and abuse’ and ‘Familial stigmatization’. (2) ‘Healthcare experiences.’ (3) ‘Stigma and cultural influences’ with 2 subthemes ‘Societal stigmatisation’, and ‘Cultural perceptions and norms surrounding perinatal loss’.

Conclusion

Women who have experienced perinatal loss often suffer psychological torture, discrimination, abuse, stigma and trauma. The findings from this study highlight the urgent need to set-up robust support systems to assist individuals coping with perinatal loss. This will require a range of interventions, including implementing trauma management programmes, training of healthcare workers, advocacy, sensitisation and establishing support networks to address discrimination and stigma faced by those affected.
Evaluation of the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based supervised exercise programme in individuals with spinal cord injuries: SCI-HOME-ACTIVE study protocol
Authors: Pinelli Erika , Baroncini Ilaria , Serafino Francesca , Ricci Lucia , Rucci Paola , Lullini Giada , Simoncini Laura , Bragonzoni Laura
Published: August 2024

Physical activity is essential to a healthy lifestyle for adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Although exercise is recognised as an important tool for improving the well-being and independence of people with SCI, most individuals do not engage in physical exercise. Traditional exercise programmes often require participation in rehabilitation centres or specialised facilities, making them less accessible for individuals with chronic SCI. Many people with SCI live in rural communities and other geographically isolated areas where access to fitness facilities and outdoor recreational areas involves long commutes or expensive transportation, which is one of the most common barriers to exercise reported by people with physical disabilities. Consequently, exercise remains an underused intervention for improving health and function in people with SCI despite its proven effects in reducing pain, fatigue, fall risk and other secondary health conditions. This pilot study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based supervised exercise programme for individuals with chronic SCI. The study will be an interventional and prospective pilot study. People with SCI will participate in a 3-month home-based exercise programme. Primary outcomes will include adherence to the exercise programme, while secondary outcomes will encompass quality of life, functional capacity, musculoskeletal health and clinical parameters. The programme will be structured into 1-hour sessions, held twice weekly for 3 months, conducted online and in small groups. The results of this study could be relevant for future indications of the best setting and strategy to ensure adherence to physical activity.
Should patients with minor strokes be given thrombolytics?
Authors: Wang Xun , Dong Yi , Dong Qiang , Wang David
Published: August 2024

Mild stroke symptoms are cited as the reason for not using tissue-type plasminogen activator in 29–43% of time-eligible patients. Previous studies suggested that not all of these patients had a good recovery or even survival to hospital discharge. Since then, stroke guidelines worldwide recommended thrombolysis in minor but disabling strokes.

Dual antiplatelet treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel was more effective than aspirin alone for reducing subsequent events in patients with minor stroke if started within 24 hours of onset in both CHANCE (Clopidogrel in High-Risk Patients with Acute Non-disabling Cerebrovascular Events) and POINT (Platelet-Oriented Inhibition in New TIA and Minor Ischaemic Stroke) trials. Recently, both PRISMS (The Potential of rtPA for Ischemic Strokes With Mild Symptoms) trial and TEMPO-2 (Tenecteplase Versus Standard of Care for Minor Ischemic Stroke With Proven Occlusion) trial showed that treatment with thrombolysis versus antiplatelet did not increase the likelihood of favourable functional outcome at 90 days among patients with minor non-disabling acute ischaemic strokes. Therefore, a narrative review on thrombolysis for patients with minor strokes from published studies may help practicing clinicians.
Efficacy of robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in the treatment of pulmonary sequestration in children
Authors: Liang Liang , Tan Zheng , Huang Ting , Gao Yue , Zhang Jian , Yu Jiangen , Xia Jie , Shu Qiang
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS) in the treatment of pulmonary sequestration (PS) in children.

Methods

All video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and RAST performed on patients with PS at a single center from May 2019 to July 2023 were identified. Theχ2and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare the perioperative outcomes between VATS and RATS groups.

Results

Ninety-three patients underwent RATS while 77 patients underwent VATS. In both two groups, one patient converted to thoracotomy and no surgical mortality case. The median operation time was longer for the RATS group compared with the VATS group (75 minvs.60 min,p<0.001). A lower ratio of chest tube indwelling (61.3%vs.90.9%,p<0.001), fewer drainage days (1.0 dayvs.2.0 days,p<0.001), and a shorter postoperative length of stay (5.0 daysvs.6.0 days,p<0.001) were found in the RATS group than that in the VATS group. No significant difference was found in the incidence of short-term postoperative complications (hydrothorax and pneumothorax) between two groups.

Conclusions

RATS was safe and effective in children with PS over 6 months old and more than 7 kg. Furthermore, RATS led to better short-time postoperative outcome than VATS. Multi-institutional studies are warranted to compare differences in long-term outcomes between RATS and VATS.
Generic Semantic Trajectory Data Modelling Approach based on Ontologies
Authors: Oueslati Wided , Sami Oumaima , Bahri Afef , Akaichi Jalel
Published: August 2024

Advancements in tracking technologies like GPS, RFID and mobile devices have made trajectory data collection widespread. This surge in tracking device usage and location-based services popularity has greatly increased moving object trajectory data availability. The ontological modelling of this kind of data is of paramount importance in understanding and utilising such data effectively. By incorporating maximum semantic data into this model, a variety of essential elements related to mobile object trajectories can be captured. An ontology model rich in semantics not only accurately represents trajectory characteristics but also links them to other relevant elements such as spatial and temporal contexts, movement types and mobile object behaviours. This semantic richness grants the model great adaptability, allowing it to be reused in various contexts related to object mobility and making it generic. Moreover, by integrating this semantic data, the process of analysis and decision-making experiences significant improvement, as it relies on more comprehensive and well-structured information, thereby facilitating informed conclusions and effective strategy implementation. Our objective is to propose a generic ontological model for trajectory data that is rich in semantics and considers the various aspects of moving objects, their movements, their trajectories and their interactions with their environment, aiming to fill the gap identified in other models proposed in the literature.
Carbonatites and related mineralization: an overview
Authors: Jin Chuang , Zhang Zhaochong , Cheng Zhiguo
Published: August 2024

Despite of their scarcity, carbonatites are documented from diverse geological settings, including cratons, continental rifts, orogenic belts and large igneous provinces, which range in age from the Archean to Recent. This study provides a concise overview of the evolution of igneous carbonatites, compiling data on their diverse characteristics and classifying them into mantle- and crustal-derived subtypes. Mantle-derived carbonatites, typically associated with alkaline rocks, are enriched in rare earth elements (REEs) and display geochemical affinities to the mantle. By contrast, crustal-derived carbonatites usually show much lower REE contents and crustal-affinity geochemical features similar to sedimentary carbonaceous rocks. Our study documents the significant economic potential of carbonatites that can host world-class deposits of REE, rare metals, alkaline earth metals and non-metallic resources. Typically, the key processes controlling REE mineralization include the low-degree melting of refertilized mantle, liquid immiscibility, fractional crystallization and hydrothermal fluids. Thus, carbonatites are of significant economic value due to the rapidly increasing global demand for REEs, mainly driven by the ‘green energy transition’.