bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current food labelling practices in online supermarkets in Australia
Authors: Maganja Damian , Davies Tazman , Sanavio Laura , Louie Jimmy C. Y. , Huffman Mark D. , Trieu Kathy , Wu Jason H. Y.
Published: September 2023

Background

Food product labelling can support consumer decision-making. Several food product labels (nutrition information panels (NIPs), ingredients lists, allergen declarations and country-of-origin) are mandated for physical product packaging in Australia, with a voluntary front-of-pack nutrition labelling system, Health Star Ratings (HSRs), also available. However, labelling requirements are not explicitly extended to online settings and the extent to which this information is available in these increasingly important food environments has not been assessed.

Methods

Data from all individual food product pages was collected from the online stores of the two dominant supermarket retailers in Australia using automated web scraping in April–May 2022 (n = 22,077 products collected). We assessed the proportion of pages displaying NIPs, ingredients, allergens, country-of-origin and HSRs after excluding products ineligible to display the respective label. We also assessed whether HSRs were differentially available for higher- (healthier) and lower-scoring (less healthy) products, with HSR scores drawn from a comprehensive Australian food composition database, FoodSwitch. A manual inspection of randomly selected product pages (n = 100 for each label type per supermarket), drawn from products displaying the relevant label, was conducted to assess whether the labels were immediately visible to users (i.e. without scrolling or clicking). Differences in labelling prevalence and visibility were compared using chi-squared tests.

Results

Across both supermarkets, country-of-origin labelling was almost complete (displayed on 93% of food product pages), but NIPs (49%), ingredients (34%) and allergens (53%) were less frequently displayed. HSRs were infrequently displayed (14% across both supermarkets) and more likely to be applied to higher-scoring products (22% on products with ≥ 3.5HSR v 0.4% on products with < 3.5HSR, p < 0.001). One supermarket was far more likely to make NIPs (100% v 2%, p < 0.001), ingredients (100% v 19%, p < 0.001) and allergens (97% v 0%, p < 0.001) information immediately visible, though the other made HSRs more apparent (22% v 75%, p < 0.001). Both supermarkets displayed country-of-origin labels prominently (100% v 86%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Food product labelling varies in online supermarkets in Australia overall and between supermarkets, while the design of online stores resulted in differences in labelling visibility. The near-complete display of country-of-origin labels and differential application of HSRs to higher-scoring products may reflect their use as marketing tools. Our findings highlight an urgent need for food labelling regulations to be updated to better account for online retail food environments.
Creating and testing a questionnaire to predict immediate and strong positive responders to spinal manipulative therapy for non-specific low back pain. A pilot study
Authors: Innes Stanley , Granger Reece , Théroux Jean
Published: September 2023

Background

Many chiropractors use spinal manipulative techniques (SMT) to treat spinal pain. A recent Delphi study posited 18 items across five domains as predictors of patients experiencing non-specific low back pain most likely to experience a strong and immediate positive response to SMT. We sought to create a ‘pen and paper’ questionnaire that would measure these items and then pilot its use in a clinical setting to determine its ‘usability’ for a larger study. Knowing this information would inform a more efficacious use of SMT.

Method

Of the 18 items identified in the Delphi study, 13 were deemed historical in nature and readily provided by the chiropractor and patient. A literature search revealed reliable and valid measures for two more items. The remaining three items were generated by creating descriptive questions matched to an appropriate Likert scale. A panel of six chiropractors who had used SMT for at least 7 years when treating non-specific low back pain was formed to evaluate the items for clarity and relevance. Ten Western Australian chiropractors were then recruited to pilot the questionnaire on ten consecutive patients with non-specific low back pain where SMT was used from March to June 2020. Ethics approval was obtained from Murdoch University.

Results

COVID-19 restrictions impacted on practitioner recruitment and delayed the data collection. Of the intended 100 participants, only 63 could be recruited over a 3-month period from seven chiropractors. Time constraints forced the closure of the data collection. The measures of all predictor items demonstrated ceiling effects. Feedback from open-ended practitioner questions was minimal, suggesting an ease of use.

Conclusion

The length of time and level of participation required to collect the calculated sample size was inadequate and suggested that incentivization may be required for a larger investigation. Significant ceiling effects were found and suggested that participants did so because of a positive bias toward chiropractic care and the use of SMT. The questionnaires in this pilot study require alternative measures and further validation before use in a larger study.
Long non-coding RNA Homeobox D gene cluster antisense growth-associated long noncoding RNA/microRNA-182-5p/Homeobox protein A10 alleviates postmenopausal osteoporosis via accelerating osteoblast differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Huang YeJian , Tao MingGao , Yan ShiXian , He XueMing
Published: September 2023

Background

Studies have illuminated that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) influences bone cell differentiation and formation. Nevertheless, whether lncRNA Homeobox D gene cluster antisense growth-associated long noncoding RNA (HAGLR) was implicated in postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) was yet uncertain.

Purpose

The research was to explore HAGLR’s role in the osteogenic differentiation (OD) process of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).

Methods

BMSCs were isolated from mouse bone marrow tissues and identified by electron microscope and flow cytometry. HAGLR, microRNA (miR)-182-5p, and homeobox protein A10 (Hoxa10) levels in BMSCs were detected. Mouse BMSC OD process was induced, and calcium deposition and alkaline phosphatase content were analyzed, as well as expressions of runt-related transcription factor 2, osteopontin, and osteocalcin, and cell apoptosis. Bilateral ovaries were resected from mice to construct the ovariectomized model and bone mineral density, maximum bending stress, maximum load, and elastic modulus of the femur were tested, and the femur was histopathologically evaluated. Chondrocyte apoptosis in the articular cartilage of mice was analyzed. Analysis of the interaction of HAGLR, miR-182-5p with Hoxa10 was conducted.

Results

HAGLR and Hoxa10 were down-regulated and miR-182-5p was elevated in PMOP patients. During the BMSC OD process, HAGLR and Hoxa10 levels were suppressed, while miR-182-5p was elevated. Promotion of HAGLR or suppression of miR-182-5p accelerated OD of BMSCs. Inhibition of miR-182-5p reversed the inhibitory effect of HAGLR on BMSC OD. In in vivo experiments, up-regulating HAGLR alleviated PMOP, while silencing Hoxa10 reversed the effects of upregulating HAGLR. HAGLR performed as a sponge for miR-182-5p, while miR-182-5p targeted Hoxa10.

Conclusion

In general, HAGLR boosted the OD process of BMSCs and relieved PMOP via the miR-182-5p/Hoxa10 axis. These data preliminarily reveal the key role of HAGLR in PMOP, and the research results have a certain reference for the treatment of PMOP.
Stachydrine ameliorates hypoxia reoxygenation injury of cardiomyocyte via enhancing SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Zhu Xi , Wu Yingbiao , Zhang Xiaogang , Gu Wei , Ning Zhongping
Published: September 2023

Background

Hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R)-induced cardiomyocyte cell apoptosis is critical in developing myocardial infarction. Stachydrine (STA), an active constituent of Leonurus heterophyllus sweet, could have a protective effect on myocardial H/R injury, which remains unexplored. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of STA on H/R injury of cardiomyocytes.

Methods

Rat cardiomyocyte H9c2 cells underwent H/R (hypoxia for 4 h and reoxygenation for 12 h). Cells were pretreated with STA (50 µM) 2 h before H/R. Cardiomyocyte injury was evaluated by CCK-8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release. Apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase-3 activity. Oxidative stress was assessed by lipid oxidation product MDA and a ROS-scavenging enzyme SOD in culture media. Western blot was performed to measure the protein expressions of SIRT1, Nrf2, and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1).

Results

STA reversed the decrease in cell viability and increased LDH release in H9c2 cells with the H/R insult. STA significantly suppressed oxidative stress, reduced MDA content, and increased SOD activity in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R. STA reduced apoptosis in H9c2 cells exposed to H/R, as evidenced by the reduced TUNEL positive cells and caspase-3 activity. In addition, STA enhanced SIRT1, Nrf2, and HO-1 protein expression in H/R-stimulated H9c2 cells. SIRT1 and Nrf2 involved the protective effect of STA in H/R-exposed H9c2 cells, as the changes in cell viability and caspase-3 activity by STA can be reversed by SIRT1 inhibitor EX-527 or Nrf2 siRNA.

Conclusions

Our data speculated that STA protects H/R injury and inhibits oxidative stress and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by activation of the SIRT1-Nrf2 pathway.
Pharmacovigilance for rare diseases: a bibliometrics and knowledge-map analysis based on web of science
Authors: Xu Mengdan , Li Guozhi , Li Jiazhao , Xiong Huiyu , He Suzhen
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The aims of this paper is to search and explore publications in the field of pharmacovigilance for rare diseases and to visualize general information, research hotspots, frontiers and future trends in the field using the bibliometric tool CiteSpace to provide evidence-based evidence for scholars.

Methods

We searched the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) for studies related to pharmacovigilance for rare diseases, spanning January 1, 1997-October 25, 2022. CiteSpace software was utilized to discuss countries/regions, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords.

Results

After screening, a total of 599 valid publications were included in this study, with a significant upward trend in the number of publications. These studies were from 68 countries/regions with the United States and the United Kingdom making the largest contributions to the field. 4,806 research scholars from 493 institutions conducted studies on pharmacovigilance for rare diseases. Harvard University and University of California were the top two productive institutions in the research field. He Dian of the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University and Peter G.M. Mol of the University of Groningen, The Netherlands, were the two most prolific researchers. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the New England Journal of Medicine were the journals with the highest number of articles and co-citation frequency respectively. Clinical trial, therapy and adverse event were the top three most cited keywords.

Conclusions

Based on keywords co-occurrence analysis, four research topics were identified: orphan drug clinical trials, postmarketing ADR surveillance for orphan drugs, rare diseases and orphan drug management, and diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases. Immune-related adverse reactions and benefit-risk assessment of enzyme replacement therapy were at the forefront of research in this field. Treatment outcomes, early diagnosis and natural history studies of rare diseases may become hotspots for future research.
Dispersion-corrected extracorporeal arterial input functions in PET studies of mice: a comparison to intracorporeal microprobe measurements
Authors: Cufe Juela , Gierse Florian , Schäfers Klaus P. , Hermann Sven , Schäfers Michael A. , Backhaus Philipp , Büther Florian
Published: September 2023

Background

Kinetic modelling of dynamic PET typically requires knowledge of the arterial radiotracer concentration (arterial input function, AIF). Its accurate determination is very difficult in mice. AIF measurements in an extracorporeal shunt can be performed; however, this introduces catheter dispersion. We propose a framework for extracorporeal dispersion correction and validated it by comparison to invasively determined intracorporeal AIFs using implanted microprobes.

Results

The response of an extracorporeal radiation detector to radioactivity boxcar functions, characterised by a convolution-based dispersion model, gave best fits using double-gamma variate and single-gamma variate kernels compared to mono-exponential kernels for the investigated range of flow rates. Parametric deconvolution with the optimal kernels was performed on 9 mice that were injected with a bolus of 39 ± 25 MBq [18F]F-PSMA-1007 after application of an extracorporeal circulation for three different flow rates in order to correct for dispersion. Comparison with synchronous implantation of microprobes for invasive aortic AIF recordings showed favourable correspondence, with no significant difference in terms of area-under-curve after 300 s and 5000 s. One-tissue and two-tissue compartment model simulations were performed to investigate differences in kinetic parameters between intra- and extracorporeally measured AIFs. Results of the modelling study revealed kinetic parameters close to the chosen simulated values in all compartment models.

Conclusion

The high correspondence of simultaneously intra- and extracorporeally determined AIFs and resulting model parameters establishes a feasible framework for extracorporeal dispersion correction. This should allow more precise and accurate kinetic modelling in small animal experiments.
Diaphragm function in patients with Covid-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Gautier Melchior , Joussellin Vincent , Ropers Jacques , El Houari Lina , Demoule Alexandre , Similowski Thomas , Combes Alain , Schmidt Matthieu , Dres Martin
Published: September 2023

Background

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) is frequently associated with deep sedation and neuromuscular blockades, that may lead to diaphragm dysfunction. However, the prevalence, risk factors, and evolution of diaphragm dysfunction in patients with VV ECMO are unknown. We hypothesized that the prevalence of diaphragm dysfunction is high and that diaphragm activity influences diaphragm function changes.

Methods

Patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requiring VV ECMO were included in two centers. Diaphragm function was serially assessed by measuring the tracheal pressure in response to phrenic nerve stimulation (Ptr,stim) from ECMO initiation (Day 1) until ECMO weaning. Diaphragm activity was estimated from the percentage of spontaneous breathing ventilation and by measuring the diaphragm thickening fraction (TFdi) with ultrasound.

Results

Sixty-three patients were included after a median of 4 days (3–6) of invasive mechanical ventilation. Diaphragm dysfunction, defined by Ptr, stim ≤ 11 cmH2O, was present in 39 patients (62%) on Day 1 of ECMO. Diaphragm function did not change over the study period and was not influenced by the percentage of spontaneous breathing ventilation or the TFdi during the 1 week. Among the 63 patients enrolled in the study, 24 (38%) were still alive at the end of the study period (60 days).

Conclusions

Sixty-two percent of patients undergoing ECMO for ARDS related to SARS CoV-2 infection had a diaphragm dysfunction on Day 1 of ECMO initiation. Diaphragm function remains stable over time and was not associated with the percentage of time with spontaneous breathing.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04613752 (date of registration February 15, 2021).
Hemodynamics combined with inflammatory indicators exploring relationships between ischemic stroke and symptomatic middle cerebral artery atherosclerotic stenosis
Authors: Wu Xiao-Bing , Liu Yi-Ao , Huang Li-Xin , Guo Xin , Cai Wang-Qing , Luo Bin , Wang Sheng-Wen
Published: September 2023

Background and purpose

Intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) is a major cause of ischemic stroke, and high-resolution vessel wall imaging (HR-VWI) can be used to assess the plaque characteristics of ICAS. This study combined HR-VWI, hemodynamics, and peripheral blood inflammatory indicators to investigate the role of these factors in symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS) and their inter-relationships.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with atherosclerotic middle cerebral artery stenosis were recruited retrospectively from June 2018 to July 2022. Plaque enhancement was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed, and the degree of plaque enhancement was graded according to the plaque-to-pituitary stalk contrast ratio (CR). Computational fluid dynamics models were constructed, and then hemodynamic parameters, including wall shear stress (WSS) and pressure ratio (PR), were measured and recorded. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to identify factors that can predict sICAS. In addition, the correlation analysis between the plaque characteristics on HR-VWI, hemodynamic parameters, and peripheral blood inflammatory indicators was performed to investigate the interrelationships between these factors.

Results

Thirty-two patients were included. A higher proportion of plaque enhancement, maximum WSS, and WSS ratio (WSSR) were significantly associated with sICAS. The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that only the WSSR was an independent risk factor for sICAS. The correlation analysis revealed that both the CR and plaque burden showed linear positive correlation with the WSSR (R = 0.411, P = 0.022; R = 0.474, P = 0.007, respectively), and showed linear negative correlation with the lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (R = 0.382, P = 0.031; R = 0.716, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The plaque enhancement and WSSR were significantly associated with sICAS, WSSR was an independent risk factor for sICAS. Plaque enhancement and plaque burden showed linear correlation with the WSSR and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). Hemodynamics and inflammation combined to promote plaque progression.
Developments for collagen hydrolysates as a multifunctional antioxidant in biomedical domains
Authors: Deng Guiya , Huang Ke , Jiang Xianchao , Wang Kun , Song Zihao , Su Yuchen , Li Chengming , Zhang Shuai , Wang Shiqi , Huang Yaqin
Published: September 2023

Antioxidant collagen hydrolysates refers to the peptides mixture with antioxidant properties identified from hydrolyzed collagen. Due to its specific structural, biological and physicochemical properties, collagen hydrolysates have been explored as a multifunctional antioxidant in the biomedical field. In this review, we summarize recent advances in antioxidant collagen hydrolysates development. Initially, the preparation process of antioxidant collagen hydrolysates is introduced, including the production and separation methods. Then the effects and the mechanisms of amino acid composition and collagen peptide structure on the antioxidant activity of collagen hydrolysates are reviewed. Finally, the applications of antioxidant collagen hydrolysates in biomedical domains are summarized, with critical discussions about the advantages, current limitations and challenges to be resolved in the future.

Graphical abstract
Renewable energy, agriculture, and carbon dioxide emissions nexus: implications for sustainable development in sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Wang Jingyi , Jiang Chenglin , Li Mingquan , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Xuebiao
Published: September 2023

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has experienced a high economic growth rate over the last two decades, which has been accompanied by concerns about increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This study aims to find out whether renewable energy and agriculture can help reduce CO2 emissions for selected SSA countries. A balanced dataset incorporating CO2 emissions, renewable energy consumption, agricultural land per capita, GDP per capita, urbanization level and energy intensity of 38 SSA countries covering the period 2000–2019 is utilized. The differentiated-generalized method of moments (GMM) is employed as a benchmark estimation method to estimate the effects of renewable energy and agriculture on CO2. The regional heterogeneity analysis of countries at different income levels is then carried out. The moderating role of government governance in the energy-agriculture-environment nexus is also investigated. The following conclusions are highlighted: (1) the consumption of renewable energy can reduce CO2 emissions, while agriculture increases them; (2) the mitigating effect of renewable energy on CO2 emissions is relatively larger in countries at a low income level countries than in high-income countries, while agriculture aggravates CO2 emissions in lower middle-income and low-income regions, but mitigates emissions in upper middle-income regions; and (3) governance quality turns the mitigating role of renewable energy use on CO2 emissions into an increasing one, and exaggerates the polluting effect of agriculture. Finally, the study proposes policy implications for improving renewable energy use and green agricultural growth to achieve sustainable development in SSA.
Impact of intralesional botulinum toxin type A therapy on the keloid-related quality of life
Authors: Hamdino Mervat , Omar Ghada Abdel-Badea , Elhaw Hala , Barbara Maurizio , Elfarargy Haitham H.
Published: September 2023

Background

We aimed to validate the translated Arabic version of the head and neck keloid quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaire. We also aimed to evaluate the impact of intralesional botulinum toxin type A (BTA) therapy on the keloid-related quality of life.

Methods

This prospective study included 140 patients with a keloid in the head and neck regions. They were divided into two groups. In Group A, the patient filled out the questionnaire four times: 1 week before the start of the treatment, the first injection (day using intralesional BTA, the second injection day, and 6 months after the first injection. In group B, the patients completed the questionnaires once before any keloid therapy (control group).

Results

Cronbach’s alpha between all questions was 0.921. The intra-class correlation coefficient between the first and second visits was above 0.8. In Group A, the total score in the first visit was 84.12 ± 5.86, while it was 34.87 ± 3.73 in the fourth fulfilment, with a statistically significant difference between them as the P-value was < 0.0001. The results of Group A differed significantly from the control group.

Conclusions

The translated Arabic version of the head and neck QOL questionnaire was reliable and reproducible. It has strong internal consistency, responsiveness, and validity. According to this study, intralesional BTA injection effectively improved the QOL of patients with keloids.
Application of single-cell multi-omics approaches in horticulture research
Authors: Zhang Jun , Ahmad Mayra , Gao Hongbo
Published: September 2023

Cell heterogeneity shapes the morphology and function of various tissues and organs in multicellular organisms. Elucidation of the differences among cells and the mechanism of intercellular regulation is essential for an in-depth understanding of the developmental process. In recent years, the rapid development of high-throughput single-cell transcriptome sequencing technologies has influenced the study of plant developmental biology. Additionally, the accuracy and sensitivity of tools used to study the epigenome and metabolome have significantly increased, thus enabling multi-omics analysis at single-cell resolution. Here, we summarize the currently available single-cell multi-omics approaches and their recent applications in plant research, review the single-cell based studies in fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crops, and discuss the potential of such approaches in future horticulture research.

Graphical Abstract
Detection and characterization of urinary stones using material-specific images derived from contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT urography
Authors: Cheng Yannan , Zhang Lu , Cao Le , Zhang Xianghui , Qu Tingting , Li Jianying , Chen Jiao , He Hui , Yang Jian , Guo Jianxin
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine the accuracy of material-specific images derived from contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT urography (DECTU) in detecting and measuring urinary stones in comparison with that of unenhanced images and its utility in calcified stone differentiation.

Methods

105 patients with 202 urinary stones (121 had confirmed composition by infrared spectroscopy) underwent triphasic (unenhanced, portal venous (VP) and excretory phase (EP)) DECTU. Material-specific images were derived in VP and EP with calcium-water, calcium-iodine and CaOxalate_Dihydrate (COD)-Hydroxyapatite (HAP) as basis material pairs. Stone number and size were recorded on unenhanced images and VP and EP material-specific images, where stone densities were also measured. Material densities of calcified stones (pure calcium oxalate [pCaO, n = 34], mixed calcium oxalate [mCaO, n = 14], mixed carbonate phosphate [mCaP, n = 70]) were compared and thresholds for differentiating these stones were determined using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

All 202 urinary stones were detected on the unenhanced, calcium (water) and calcium (iodine) images in VP. While the detection rate was significantly decreased to 58 and 64% using calcium (water) and calcium (iodine) images in EP, respectively (all p < 0.001). Stone sizes measured on calcium (iodine) images in VP was similar to that of unenhanced images (10.6 vs 10.7 mm, p > 0.05). Significant differences in material densities were found among pCaO, mCaO and mCaP on COD(HAP) images with AUC of 0.72–0.74 for differentiating these stones.

Conclusion

Material-specific images in VP derived from DECTU allow reliably detecting and measuring urinary tract stones in comparison with unenhanced images and can identify calcified stones with moderate diagnostic performance to provide potential 33% dose reduction.

Advances in knowledge

Material-specific images, especially the calcium (iodine) images in VP allow for reliable detection of urinary stones.

Stone size measurement should be performed on the calcium (iodine) images in VP.

Material density measurements on COD-HAP (VP) material decomposition images can be used to differentiate among pure calcium oxalate, mixed calcium oxalate and mixed carbonate phosphate stones with AUC of 0.72–0.74.
E2F3/CDCA2 reduces radiosensitivity in gastric adenocarcinoma by activating PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Gao Jun , Wang Huaqiao , Qiu Xiujuan , Tang Jianjun
Published: September 2023

Objectives:

Gastric adenocarcinoma is primarily responsible for tumor-associated deaths and its incidence is increasing global. CDCA2 is a nuclear protein binding to protein phosphatase one γ (PP1γ) and plays a pro-oncogenic role in tumors. This study aimed to elucidate the biological function of CDCA2 in gastric adenocarcinoma progression and radiosensitivity, as well as its potential mechanisms.

Methods:

Differentially expressed mRNAs in gastric adenocarcinoma were obtained by bioinformatics and upstream regulatory factors were predicted. The correlation between their expressions was analyzed. The expressions of E2F3 and CDCA2 in cells were assayed by qRT-PCR and their regulatory relationship was validated by molecular experiments. Cell viability was tested via CCK-8. Cell proliferation and survival after radiotherapy were determined by colony formation assay. The expressions of PI3K/AKT pathway-related proteins were assessed through western blot.

Results:

CDCA2 was significantly upregulated in gastric adenocarcinoma tissues and cells, promoted cell proliferation, and reduced radiosensitivity. The impact of CDCA2 on cell proliferation and radiosensitivity was reversed by the PI3K/AKT inhibitor. Furthermore, the upstream transcription factor of CDCA2 was found to be E2F3, which was highly expressed in gastric adenocarcinoma. The binding relationship between the two was validated by dual luciferase and ChIP experiments. The rescue experiment showed that E2F3 activated CDCA2 to drive cell proliferation and reduce radiosensitivity through PI3K/AKT pathway in gastric adenocarcinoma.

Conclusion:

In summary, this study found that E2F3 activated CDCA2 to drive cell proliferation and reduce radiosensitivity in gastric adenocarcinoma through the PI3K/AKT pathway, suggesting that E2F3/CDCA2 axis is a new therapeutic target for gastric adenocarcinoma.

Advances in knowledge:

1. CDCA2 reduced the radiosensitivity of gastric adenocarcinoma cells;

2. CDCA2 reduced the radiosensitivity of gastric adenocarcinoma cells through the PI3K/AKT pathway;

3. E2F3 activated CDCA2 to reduce the radiosensitivity of gastric adenocarcinoma cells through the PI3K/AKT pathway.
An exploration of the use of accessory dwelling units for senior housing in Honolulu
Authors: Youn Eric
Published: September 2023

The island of Oahu (Honolulu County, Hawai’i) is facing a shortage of housing for its growing senior population. The construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), or small, second homes built on the same lot. for senior housing may be a possible solution. A qualitative document review was utilized to examine the existing Honolulu ADU cost reduction for those wishing to build an ADU on their properties for the purposes of senior housing. There were several publications and articles found through the search. From these articles, four major themes emerged: tax breaks, financing options, green building, and sharing of utilities. These themes led to a secondary level document review and analysis of each of these themes.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with dysglycemia among overweight and obese Palestinian adolescents in the Hebron governorate
Authors: Abu Al-Halawa Diala , Vicuna Polo Stephanny , Qasrawi Radwan
Published: September 2023

Background: The prevalence of dysglycemia among adolescents and younger children has been rising, yet health professionals are still unaware of the significance of this problem. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MOH) records, most diabetic children under the age of 20 in Palestine are classified as type 1; nonetheless, very limited data are available for policymakers to frame cost-effective screening programs. This study aims to determine the prevalence of dysglycemia in a sample of obese and overweight Palestinian adolescents, identify risk factors associated with dysglycemia, and examine risk factors variance by gender.

Methods: A cross-sectional sample of observed obese and overweight adolescents was selected from public schools in the Hebron governorate. Informed consent, physical examination, anthropometric, and laboratory tests (Random Blood Glucose Level (BGL) and fasting BGL ) were performed on a sample of 511 students (44.6% boys and 55.4% girls) aged 13–18-years (13-15 years =46.2% and 16-18 years =53.8%).

Results: The prevalence of confirmed overweight and obese cases was 73.2%, and dysglycemia prevalence among the confirmed cases was 3.7% (5.3% boys and 2.5% girls). The BMI classifications of the dysglycemic children indicated that 42.1% were overweight and 31.1% were obese. Furthermore, 64.6% reported high systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure readings.

Conclusions: The results of this study provide valuable information about the rising problem of dysglycemia among Palestinian adolescents and underlines the need for rapid screening programs and protocols for early detection and classification of the disease, leading to initiation of early prevention and treatment plans.
Case Report: Unexplained ascites can be constrictive pericarditis
Authors: Lohakare Amol , Hampe Priyanka , Hinge Dinesh V , Meshram R.J. , Taksande Amar
Published: September 2023

Here we present a patient who had unexplained ascites despite a lengthy series of investigations. Extrathoracic manifestations of constrictive pericarditis such as re- solving ascites often cover the true situation and lead to a delayed diagnosis. A six-year-old boy was referred to our hospital due to a three-year history of abdominal distention, and difficulty in breathing. A chest x-ray revealed heart enlargement. The diameter of the induration of the tuberculin skin test was 14 mm. Echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging showed constrictive pericarditis. The patient was diagnosed with a tuberculosis origin of pericarditis. Cardiac catheterization was performed, and pericardiectomy. The patient was started on an anti-tuberculosis drug leading to a complete cure of ascites.
Randomised control trial of epidural platelet rich plasma versus epidural steroids for low back pain
Authors: Jayasoorya T. Adarsh , Samal Nitin
Published: September 2023

Background: Lower back pain (LBP) is a prevalent medical condition that frequently results in work-related disability and is one of the leading causes of missed workdays. Low back pain (LBP) struck 619 million people worldwide in 2020, and by 2050, it's predicted that there will be 843 million instances worldwide. 70 to 85% of people are predicted to suffer from LBP at some point of time  in their lives. 90% of these people will experience multiple episodes, and an intervertebral disc prolapse accounts for a significant portion. Medications and lifestyle adjustments may be used as the first line of treatment. However, if the symptoms do not improve, minimally invasive procedures such as epidural steroid injection and epidural platelet-rich plasma injection may relieve the pain and lessen disability. We therefore aim to conduct a study to analyse the patient’s functional status and satisfaction after epidural platelet-rich plasma infiltration.

Methods: Eligible patients with low back pain will be divided into two groups(Group A and Group B). Patients in group A will receive epidural steroid whereas Group B will receive epidural Platelet rich plasma. These patients will be monitored where visual analogue scale will be used to assess relief of pain before and after the procedure, Straight leg raising test will be used to understand the improvement of the patient clinically during examination pre and post procedure. Oswestry disability index will be used to compare the outcome in patient's day to day activities before and after the intervention. Patients will be evaluated with these methods pre-procedure and 1 hour after and later follow up evaluation will be done after 3 weeks and 3 months. The follow-up scores will be taken post one hour, three weeks and three months of the treatment.

Protocol version: v1 dated 04/07/23

CTRI registration: REF/2023/06/068736 (12/06/2023)
Are numerical scores important for grant proposals' evaluation? A cross sectional study
Authors: Buljan Ivan , Pina David G. , Mijatović Antonija , Marušić Ana
Published: September 2023

Background: In the evaluation of research proposals, reviewers are often required to provide their opinions using various forms of quantitative and qualitative criteria. In 2020, the European Commission removed, for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Innovative Training Networks (ITN) funding scheme, the numerical scores from the individual evaluations but retained them in the consensus report. This study aimed to assess whether there were any differences in reviewer comments’ linguistic characteristics after the numerical scoring was removed, compared to comments from 2019 when numerical scoring was still present. 

Methods: This was an observational study and the data were collected for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Innovative Training Networks (ITN) evaluation reports from the calls of 2019 and 2020, for both individual and consensus comments and numerical scores about the quality of the proposal on three evaluation criteria: Excellence, Impact and Implementation. All comments were analyzed using the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) program.

Results: For both years, the comments for proposal's strengths were written in a style that reflects objectivity, clout, and positive affect, while in weaknesses cold and objective style dominated, and that pattern remained stable across proposal status and research domains. Linguistic variables explained a very small proportion of the variance of the differences between 2019 and 2020 (McFadden R2=0.03).

Conclusions: Removing the numerical scores was not associated with the differences in linguistic characteristics of the reviewer comments. Future studies should adopt a qualitative approach to assess whether there are conceptual changes in the content of the comments.
A comparative study of corneal topographical and central corneal thickness changes in diabetics and non-diabetics before and after phacoemulsification: A study protocol
Authors: Mallareddy Dr Vijaya , Daigavane Sachin
Published: September 2023

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder and it has its effects in the eye causing various ocular complications. It is also found that diabetes causes changes in the corneal morphology. Corneal components such as epithelium, endothelium, nerves, and immune cells are affected by hyperglycemia.  These changes cause a significant effect on vision in individuals with diabetes. Assessment of corneal parameters like central corneal thickness and corneal topography changes related to diabetes are essential in patients undergoing modern-day cataract surgery like phacoemulsification. Systemic condition like diabetes along with cataract surgery like phacoemulsification can influence corneal healing and fluid balance leading to changes in corneal thickness. Postoperative changes in the cornea are also important to assess the corneal health after the surgery. Comparison of preoperative and postoperative corneal measurements help in assessing the effect of phacoemulsification and health status of the cornea. Study of these changes help in preventing complications and effect on visual outcome and specialised management for individuals with diabetes undergoing cataract surgery. In diabetic patients the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications in cataract surgery increases compared to non diabetic patients. The aim of the study is to compare corneal curvature and astigmatism by corneal topography and central corneal thickness in diabetic patients and controls before and after phacoemulsification.

CTRI registration number: REF/2023/08/071341
Changes in tear film function in patients after pterygium excision surgery done under topical anaesthesia with and without conjunctival autograft – A protocol for a randomized interventional study
Authors: Jain Raina , Tidake Pravin K.
Published: September 2023

Background: Pterygium is an extra-ocular disorder related to progressive subepithelial growth of degenerative conjunctival tissue over the cornea. There are multifactorial causes that lead to the growth of pterygium. The tear film becomes unstable due to the degenerative growth of the conjunctiva. The tear film is divided into three different layers. The lipid layer is secreted by the meibomian gland, which is the exterior layer exposed to the environment and prevents tears from drying out too rapidly. The lacrimal gland releases the middle layer, the aqueous layer, which provides oxygen to the corneal epithelial layer. The goblet cells secrete mucus, the innermost layer that makes the corneal epithelium hydrophilic. Due to uneven wettability brought on by the progression of pterygium, the tear film becomes unstable and may damage the ocular surface. It has been found that pterygium excision increases tear film stability. According to a study, the incidence of pterygium in central rural India is 12.9%. Incidence increases with age, gender, and occupation.

Methods: The patients with pterygium will be divided into two groups for the pterygium excision surgery: Group 1 consists of patients in which conjunctival autograft will not be done after pterygium excision, and Group 2 consists of patients in which conjunctival autograft will be done after pterygium excision. Preoperatively and postoperatively, visual acuity was assessed in all the patients on day 1, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks on follow-up. Tear film evaluation was done through Tear film Break Up Time (T-BUT) and Schirmer’s Test in patients preoperatively and postoperatively on day 1, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks follow up.

CTRI Registration: REF/2023/07/071130 (30/07/2023)

Protocol version: v1 dated 7/08/2023
Insomnia in teachers with the resumption of in-person instruction at schools amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kamath Sowmini Padmanabh , Mithra Prasanna , Kamath Padmanabh , Unnikrishnan Bhaskaran
Published: September 2023

Background: The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has affected people's economies, lifestyles, and physical, emotional, and sleep health. This research aimed to estimate the prevalence of insomnia and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression among teachers with the resumption of in-person instruction at schools following a hiatus after COVID-19 lockdowns in India. We also studied the association of teachers' insomnia with psychological symptoms and demographic variables. 

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey between October –November 2021 after schools had reopened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected using standard questionnaires online among schoolteachers. We explored the association of insomnia with teachers' symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, sex, school boards, and age groups. 

Results: Of 124 schoolteachers surveyed, the prevalence of insomnia was 37.9% (subthreshold in 25% and clinical in 12.9%). The prevalence of stress, depression, and anxiety was 20.2%, 30.6%, and 45.2%, respectively. There was a significant association (p<0.001) of insomnia with symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression in univariate analysis. On multivariate analysis, we found that those feeling stressed had a 6.4 times higher risk of insomnia (95% CI: 1.5-28.3, p - 0.01). There was no association of insomnia with age, sex, school educational boards, and type of institution. 

Conclusions: Over one-third (37.9%) of teachers reported having trouble sleeping when they returned to the school's typical face-to-face instruction modalities through COVID-19 times, and insomnia was more prevalent in those with stress.
Working conditions in platform work: testing digital platform workers’ rights on platform cooperatives
Authors: Renau Cano Melissa , Espelt Ricard , Fuster Morell Mayo
Published: September 2023

The emergence of platform work has provided new opportunities for job creation, yet it also poses numerous challenges, thereby placing the topic at the centre of the policy debate. At the same time, discussion of the platform economy usually fails to acknowledge the coexistence of different platform models and their diverse socioeconomic impact with regard to the SDGs and the European Pillar of Social Rights (EPSR). This paper aims to contribute to the debate on regulating platform work by testing the ‘Charter of digital workers’ rights’ arising from the Platform Labour in Urban Spaces (PLUS) European project, in three platform cooperatives: Fairbnb.coop, SMart, and Katuma. The empirical analysis and testing are based on qualitative surveys, co-creation sessions and interviews. The analysis could prove useful for further EU policy, national transposition of EU legislation and potential legislation worldwide. The results show the importance of providing a clear-cut definition of platform work, as well as considering different platform models. More specifically, the paper reflects on the definition and fair scheduling of working time (total amount of working hours, scheduling, and disconnection), fair and decent remuneration, the right to information on contractual conditions and the right to transparency in algorithmic systems, and training rights.
Testing the Validity of Patellar Measurements in Sex Estimation – A Computed Tomography Study in a Contemporary Polish Population
Authors: Jakubik Karol , Jeżak Mikołaj , Nowińska Aleksandra , Grudzień Monika , Piech Piotr , Karpińska Justyna , Staśkiewicz Grzegorz
Published: September 2023

Introduction and purpose: Human skeleton-based sex estimation is a major topic of interest for forensic anthropologists. Various bones have been examined for sex heterogeneity. The most commonly used include skull and pelvis, however they may not always be used due to damage or fragmentation. The patella has been shown to be resistant to postmortem changes, which creates a potential use for determining the sex of unknown human remains.

Materials and methods: The samples were gathered from patients examined by computed tomography angiography (CTA) of lower extremities in University Hospital No. 4 in Lublin. Exclusion criteria included patellar fractures, knee replacement and advanced osteoporosis. A total of 120 CTA examinations of 65 males and 55 females, were included in the analysis. Four measurements for every patella: craniocaudal patella dimension (CCP), transverse dimension (TP), anteroposterior dimension (APP) and patellar angle (PA), were obtained from CTA images.

Results: The statistical analysis proved that sex differences of all variables, except for PA, were statistically significant (p < 0,001).

Conclusions: Patellar measurements can be helpful in sex determination in the Polish population. CT is a useful tool for skeleton-based sex identification.
A Structural Equation Model on Health Status in Delivery Workers: Based on the Theory of Salutogenesis
Authors: Kim Min Ji , Choi Eun Suk
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to develop and test a structural equation model on health status of delivery workers. The conceptual model was based on the theory of salutogenesis. Methods: Data were collected from 262 delivery workers working in D and K cities from August 2 to August 27, 2021. The structural equation model was used to assess the relationships among the variables. The model comprised three exogenous variables (working environment, social support, health promotion activities) and two endogenous variables (sense of coherence, health status). The data were analyzed using SPSS 23.0 and AMOS 22.0. Results: The hypothetical model showed a good fit to the data: χ2/df=2.38, TLI=.91, CFI=.93, SRMR=.08, RMSEA=.07. Out of 10 research hypotheses, 10 were supported, and explained 62.3% of the variance in the health status of delivery workers. The model confirmed that sense of coherence was the most important factor. Health status is directly affected by working environment, social support, and health promotion activities. Health status is indirectly affected by working environment, social support, and health promotion activities through mediation of sense of coherence. Conclusion: The theory of salutogenesis is adequate to use for developing health promotion programs for delivery workers. There is a need to develop a customized program to increase health status of delivery workers by enhancing sense of coherence.