bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flavonoid Metabolic Profiles and Gene Mapping of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Purple Gradient Grain Hulls
Authors: Zhang Fantao , Yang Limin , Huang Wenxue , Luo Xiangdong , Xie Jiankun , Hu Biaolin , Chen Yaling
Published: August 2022

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain hull color is an easily observable trait and regarded as a crucial morphological marker in rice breeding. Here, a purple gradient grain hull mutant (pg) was found from natural mutations of a straw-white grain hull rice variety IARI 6184B (Orzya sativa L. subsp. indica). The color of the mutant grain hulls changed from straw-white to pink, then purple, and finally brownish-yellow. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) identified 217 flavonoids, including 18 anthocyanins, among which cyanidin O-syringic acid had the highest concentration in pink (66.2 × 106) and purple (68.0 × 106) grain hulls. The relative contents of hesperetin O-malonyl-hexoside, apigenin derivatives, genistein derivatives, and kaempferol 3-O derivatives were consistently downregulated during pg grain hull development. Conversely, 12 anthocyanins were upregulated in colored hulls, and cyanidin 3-O-malonylhexoside was abundant only in pink and purple grain hulls. Moreover, the candidate gene was mapped into a 1.38 Mb region on chromosome 4 through bulked segregant analysis based on deep sequencing (BSA-seq) and gene mapping approaches. These results increased our understanding of anthocyanin biosynthesis in rice grains, helping rice breeders to select new rice varieties with desirable grain traits.
Development and validation of the potential biomarkers based on m6A-related lncRNAs for the predictions of overall survival in the lung adenocarcinoma and differential analysis with cuproptosis
Authors: Gao Chen , Kong Ning , Zhang Fan , Zhou Liuzhi , Xu Maosheng , Wu Linyu
Published: August 2022

Background

The treatment and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains a challenge. The study aimed to conduct a systematic analysis of the predictive capacity of N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the prognosis of LUAD.

Methods

594 samples were totally selected from a dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The identification of prognostic m6A-related lncRNAs were performed by Pearson correlation analysis and Cox regression analysis. Systematic analyses, including cluster analysis, survival analysis, and immuno-correlated analysis, were conducted. A prognosis model was built from the optimized subset of m6A-related lncRNAs. The assessment of model was performed by survival analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Finally, the risk score of patients with LUAD calculated by the prognosis model was implemented by the analysis of Cox regression. Differential analysis was for further evaluation of the cuproptosis-related genes in two risk sets.

Results

These patients were grouped into two clusters according to the expression levels of 22 prognostic m6A-related lncRNAs. The patients with LUAD in cluster 2 was significantly worse in the overall survival (OS) (P = 0.006). Three scores calculated by the ESTIMATE methods in cluster 2 were significantly lower. After the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm, 10 prognostic m6A-related lncRNAs were totally selected to construct the final model to obtain the risk score. Then the area under the ROC curve of the prognosis model for 1, 3, and 5-year OS was 0.767, 0.709, and 0.736 in the training set, and 0.707, 0.691, and 0.675 in the test set. The OS of the low-risk cohort was significantly higher than that of the high-risk cohort in both the training set (P < 0.001) and test set (P < 0.001). After the analysis of Cox regression, the risk score [Hazard ratio (HR) = 5.792; P < 0.001] and stage (HR = 1.576; P < 0.001) were both considered as independent indicators of prognosis for LUAD. The expression levels of five cuproptosis-related genes were significantly different in two risk sets.

Conclusions

The study constructed a predictive model for the OS of patients with LUAD and these OS-related m6A-lncRNAs might have potential roles in LUAD progression.
Exploring cognitive and brain oxygenation changes over a 1-year period in physically active individuals with mild cognitive impairment: a longitudinal fNIRS pilot study
Authors: Talamonti Deborah , Gagnon Christine , Vincent Thomas , Nigam Anil , Lesage Frederic , Bherer Louis , Fraser Sarah
Published: August 2022

Background

Aging is associated with an increased likelihood of developing dementia, but a growing body of evidence suggests that certain modifiable risk factors may help prevent or delay dementia onset. Among these, physical activity (PA) has been linked to better cognitive performance and brain functions in healthy older adults and may contribute to preventing dementia. The current pilot study investigated changes in behavioral and brain activation patterns over a 1-year period in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and healthy controls taking part in regular PA.

Methods

Frontal cortical response during a dual-task walking paradigm was investigated at baseline, at 6 months (T6), and at 12 months (T12) by means of a portable functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) system. The dual-task paradigm included a single cognitive task (2-back), a single motor task (walking), and a dual-task condition (2-back whilst walking).

Results

Both groups showed progressive improvement in cognitive performance at follow-up visits compared to baseline. Gait speed remained stable throughout the duration of the study in the control group and increased at T6 for those with MCI. A significant decrease in cortical activity was observed in both groups during the cognitive component of the dual-task at follow-up visits compared to baseline, with MCI individuals showing the greatest improvement.

Conclusions

The observations of this pilot study suggest that taking part in regular PA may be especially beneficial for both cognitive performance and brain functions in older adulthood and, especially, in individuals with MCI. Our findings may serve as preliminary evidence for the use of PA as a potential intervention to prevent cognitive decline in individuals at greater risk of dementia.
Barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention interventions for reducing risky sexual behavior among youth worldwide: a systematic review
Authors: Mbengo Fungai , Adama Esther , Towell-Barnard Amanda , Bhana Arvin , Zgambo Maggie
Published: August 2022

Background

Interventions aimed at reducing risky sexual behavior are considered an important strategy for averting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection among youth (15–24 years) who continue to be at risk of the disease. Enhancing intervention success requires a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and facilitators to interventions targeting youth. However, there is lack of a systematic review of both quantitative and qualitative studies to comprehensively identify and synthesize barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention interventions for reducing risky sexual behavior among youth worldwide. This review aimed to identify and synthesize barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention interventions for reducing risky sexual behavior among youth globally based on original peer-reviewed studies published in the last decade.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute approach for mixed methods systematic reviews and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines were used to guide this review. Nine electronic databases, Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS and World Health Organization websites, and reference lists of included studies and systematic reviews on barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention interventions for reducing risky sexual behavior among youth were searched for eligible articles. Studies that met the inclusion criteria underwent quality appraisal and data extraction. Findings were analyzed using thematic synthesis and underpinned by Nilsen, 2015’s Determinant Framework.

Results

Overall 13 studies comprising of eight qualitative studies, four quantitative studies and one mixed methods study were included in the review. Several barriers and facilitators across the five Determinant Framework domains were identified. Most of the barriers fell under the characteristics of the context domain (e.g., gender-biased norms). The next important group of barriers emerged within the characteristics of the end users domain (e.g., fear of relationship breakdown). In terms of facilitators, the majority fell under the characteristics of the strategy of facilitating implementation domain (e.g., implementation of intervention with fidelity) and characteristics of the end users domain (e.g., fear of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections). The next common set of facilitators appeared within the characteristics of the context domain (e.g., family support).

Conclusion

This review identified several multi-level barriers and facilitators to HIV prevention interventions for reducing risky sexual behavior among youth. Multi-level and combination approaches are needed to address these factors and enhance intervention success.
Comparison of amphotericin B deoxycholate in combination with either flucytosine or fluconazole, and voriconazole plus flucytosine for the treatment of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis: a prospective multicenter study in China
Authors: Zhao Ting , Xu Xiaolei , Wu Yushan , Zhang Wei , Zeng Qin , Lu Yanqiu , Yang Tongtong , Zhou Guoqiang , Yu Jianhua , Lan Ke , Harypursat Vijay , Chen Yaokai
Published: August 2022

Background

The most appropriate alternative to induction therapy for HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis (CM) remains unclear when standard treatment is unavailable, inaccessible, intolerable, or ineffective.

Methods

A prospective, multi-centre cohort study was conducted to analyze the data of 156 HIV-infected patients with CM who were treated with amphotericin B deoxycholate (AmB-D) + flucytosine (5FC), voriconazole (VCZ) + 5FC, or AmB-D + Fluconazole (Flu) as induction regimens. Clinical efficacy, cumulative mortality, and adverse effects were compared among the three treatment groups.

Results

Fewer deaths occurred by week 4 and week 10 among patients receiving AmB-D + 5FC than among those receiving AmB-D + Flu [4 (5.1%) vs. 8 (16.0%) deaths by week 4; hazard ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0 to 3.3; p = 0.039; and 8 (10.3%) vs. 14 (28.0%) deaths by week 10; hazard ratio, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.7; p = 0.008, respectively]. AmB-D plus 5FC was found to result in significantly higher rates of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture sterility (57.6% vs. 34% by week 2; 87.9% vs. 70% by week 10; p < 0.05 for both comparisons). However, the differences in CSF culture sterility and mortality between the VCZ + 5FC group and the AmB-D + 5FC group were not statistically significant. VCZ plus 5FC had a significantly advantageous effect on the incidence of new AIDS-defining illness and length of hospital stay, compared with AmB-D plus 5FC. Laboratory adverse events (grade 3 or 4), such as severe anemia, were less frequent with VCZ + 5FC use than with AmB-D combined with 5FC or Flu use.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that AmB-D combined with 5FC remains the more efficacious induction regimen compared to AmB-D plus Flu, and that VCZ + 5FC might be a potential alternative when the standard regimen is not readily available, accessible, tolerated, or effective.

Clinical Trials: Registration number, ChiCTR1900021195. Registered 1 February 2019, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=35362.
A scoping review of gestational diabetes mellitus healthcare: experiences of care reported by pregnant women internationally
Authors: Pham Sheila , Churruca Kate , Ellis Louise A. , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: August 2022

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition associated with pregnancy that engenders additional healthcare demand. A growing body of research includes empirical studies focused on pregnant women’s GDM healthcare experiences. The aim of this scoping review is to map findings, highlight gaps and investigate the way research has been conducted into the healthcare experiences of women with GDM.

Methods

A systematic search of primary research using a number of databases was conducted in September 2021. Studies were included if they had an explicit aim of focusing on GDM and included direct reporting of participants’ experiences of healthcare. Key data from each study was extracted into a purposely-designed form and synthesised using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

Fifty-seven articles were included in the analysis. The majority of studies used qualitative methodology, and did not have an explicit theoretical orientation. Most studies were conducted in urban areas of high-income countries and recruitment and research was almost fully conducted in clinical and other healthcare settings. Women found inadequate information a key challenge, and support from healthcare providers a critical factor. Experiences of prescribed diet, medication and monitoring greatly varied across settings. Additional costs associated with managing GDM was cited as a problem in some studies. Overall, women reported significant mental distress in relation to their experience of GDM.

Conclusions

This scoping review draws together reported healthcare experiences of pregnant women with GDM from around the world. Commonalities and differences in the global patient experience of GDM healthcare are identified.
Perinatal care for women with refugee backgrounds from African countries: a qualitative study of intersections with psychological wellbeing
Authors: Due Clemence , Walsh Moira , Aldam Isadora , Winter Amelia , Cooper Susan , Sheriff Josephine , Ziersch Anna
Published: August 2022

Background

Experiences with healthcare services, including perinatal healthcare services, contribute to psychological wellbeing for refugees post-resettlement. To address the paucity of literature examining the relationship between perinatal healthcare and psychological wellbeing in women with refugee backgrounds from African countries this study aimed to: (1) understand the relationship between psychological wellbeing and perinatal care amongst this population, and; (2) identify areas for improved perinatal healthcare services to ensure positive wellbeing outcomes in this population.

Methods

A total of 39 participants were included in the study. Nineteen women from seven African countries participated in interviews – seven both prior to and after having their babies, two only while pregnant and ten only after their baby had been born. In addition, interviews were conducted with 20 service providers. Interviews were thematically analysed.

Results

Four key themes were identified, covering continuity of care, cultural safety of care, agency in decision making, and ongoing impacts of perinatal care experiences.

Conclusions

The results highlighted the need for changes to perinatal healthcare provision at the systems level, including implementing a continuity of care model, and ensuring women’s access to individualised, trauma-informed perinatal services which attend to the cultural and psychosocial resettlement needs of this population. These findings informed recommendations for improving perinatal healthcare services and better psychological outcomes – and in turn broader health outcomes – for African-background refugee mothers.
Augmented inferior rectus transposition with medial rectus recession in treatment of chronic unilateral sixth nerve palsy
Authors: Farid Mohamed F. , Khater Ahmed A. , Elbarky Ahmed M.
Published: August 2022

Background

to report the results of augmented inferior rectus muscle transposition (IRT) in management of chronic sixth nerve palsy.

Methods

a retrospective review of medical records of patients with chronic complete sixth nerve palsy who were treated by augmented full thickness IRT to the lateral border of the paralyzed lateral rectus muscle. Patients were selected for IRT if there was more limitation of abduction in inferior gaze associated with V- pattern esotropia. Medial rectus recession (MRRc) was performed in case of positive intraoperative forced duction. Effect on primary position esotropia, face turn, amount of V-pattern and limitation of ocular ductions were reported and analyzed.

Results

the review revealed 11 patients (7 males) with chronic unilateral sixth nerve palsy who were treated by simultaneous augmented IRT and MRRc. Causes of sixth nerve palsy were trauma (6 cases), vascular (3 cases), inflammation and congenital (one case each). Mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 35.6 years (range; 11–63) and mean follow up was 8.6 months (range; 6–13). Postoperatively, average correction of esotropia, V-pattern, face turn and limited abduction were 35.9 PD, 11.4 PD, 25.9° and 2.2 unit, respectively (p < .00). Postoperative complications in the form anterior segment ischemia, symptomatic induced vertical deviations were not found.

Conclusions

In cases of chronic unilateral sixth nerve palsy associated with more limitation of abduction in downgaze and V-pattern esotropia, augmented IRT could be considered as an effective and safe modality.
Massive intraocular hemorrhage, presumably from the central retinal artery after cataract surgery, and difficult hemostasis during vitrectomy: a case report
Authors: Nakagawa Suguru , Ishii Kiyoshi
Published: August 2022

Background

Severe intraocular hemorrhage is a rare complication of cataract surgery due to the recent generalization of minimal-incision cataract surgery. We report a case of a massive intraocular hemorrhage that probably originated from the central retinal artery after cataract surgery, in which hemostasis was difficult to achieve during vitrectomy.

Case presentation

An 86-year-old woman was referred to our department for intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation after undergoing cataract surgery. Massive intraocular hemorrhage was observed during the initial visit to our department. She underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and IOL repositioning under local anesthesia. However, the hemorrhage could not be removed completely because of continued massive intraoperative bleeding from the posterior fundus, and it was extremely difficult to achieve hemostasis during the initial surgery. At 7 days after the initial surgery, PPVs were performed under general anesthesia. Bleeding significantly decreased in the second surgery compared to the first. The bleeding probably originated from the central retinal artery on the optic disc; hemostasis was obtained by coagulation of the bleeding site with intraocular diathermy. After the second surgery, there was no exacerbation of bleeding and the patient’s condition was stable. However, the patient’s visual acuity showed no light perception after the second surgery.

Conclusions

Massive intraocular hemorrhage may occur from the central retinal artery after undergoing cataract surgery. In such cases, surgery with general anesthesia with a lower maintained blood pressure (instead of surgery under local anesthesia) should be recommended, considering the possibility of difficult hemostasis in the event of bleeding from the retinal artery.
Prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality among postpartum women in North West Ethiopia: a community-based study
Authors: Gessesse Dereje Nibret , Tsega Nuhamin Tesfa , Aklil Mastewal Belayneh , Temesgan Wubedle Zelalem , Abegaz Marta Yimam , Anteneh Tazeb Alemu , Tibebu Nebiyu Solomon , Alemu Haymanot Nigatu , Haile Tsion Tadesse , Seyoum Asmra Tesfahun , Tiguh Agumas Eskezia , Yismaw Ayenew Engida , Mihret Muhabaw Shumye , Nenko Goshu , Wondie Kindu Yinges , Taye Birhan Tsegaw , Kebede Azmeraw Ambachew
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Although sleep disturbance is a community problem, there is limited study in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence and factors affecting postpartum poor sleep quality in women.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 1st to August 30th, 2021 in Gondar city. The cluster sampling method was used to address 858 study participants. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) 19-item self-report measure of sleep quality over the past month was used to measure maternal sleep quality during the postpartum period and a global PSQI score of 5 or more was used to indicate poor sleep quality. Binary logistic regression was used to identify variable association and 95% confidence level and adjusted Odds Ratio were used to declare association.

Result

Poor sleep quality prevalence during postpartum period was 24.0% (95%CI: 21.3–26.9). factors significantly associated with poor sleep quality were family size [AOR = 1.76; 95% CI: (1.14–2.73)], unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 2.11; 95%CI: (1.17–3.80)], had a family history of mental illness [AOR = 3.70; 95%CI: (2.15–6.37)], had known medical disorders [AOR = 2.59; 95%CI: (1.51–4.43)], having intimate partner violence [AOR = 2.58; 95%CI: (1.78–3.75)], and women who can read and write and who complete secondary school [AOR = 2.60; 95% CI: (1.20–5.66)] and [AOR = 2.02; 95%CI: (1.16–3.53)] respectively. On the other hand, being housewife, merchant, and government-employed [AOR = 0.32; 95%CI: (0.14–0.73)], [AOR = 0.13; 95%CI: (0.05–0.34)], and [AOR = 0.38; 95%CI: (0.14–0.98)] respectively were identified to be factors significantly associated with poor sleep quality.

Conclusion

Poor sleep quality prevalence is high in the community of Gondar city. Thus, setting strategies to increase women’s educational level, providing health education programs to create awareness on the consequence of intimate partner violence which could reduce the violence; increasing screening for medical disorders before or during maternity period, preventing unplanned pregnancy with effective family planning method, and employing women in a certain organization will have a great role in reducing poor sleep quality.
The association between tryptophan levels and postpartum mood disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Zhao Feng , Sylivris Amy , Gordon Michael , Sundram Suresh
Published: August 2022

Over 50% of women experience mood disturbance in the postpartum period, with significant implications for maternal and infant health but identifying those at risk is not easily possible. The essential amino acid, tryptophan (TRP) through its neuroactive metabolites, has been implicated in the pathology of mood disorders. Thus, TRP levels tested in the peripartum period have been proposed as a potential biomarker for subsequent development of postpartum mood disturbances, in particular postpartum depression (PPD). A systematic review and meta-analysis following PROSPERO guidelines [CRD42021252462] was conducted on peer-reviewed, English language studies that measured blood levels of TRP during the postpartum period in women who were also evaluated for postpartum “blues” or PPD. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, of which five studies contained sufficient data to conduct a meta-analysis. Low total TRP levels in postpartum days 1 to 5 were significantly associated with PPD (SMD: -5.39, 95%CI [-7.72, -3.05]). No significant association was found between free TRP levels in the postpartum period and PPD (SMD: -3.43, 95%CI [-7.76, 0.89]). Our findings confirm the necessity for more replicable designed studies regarding TRP and its relationship to postpartum depression. If there were greater clarity regarding TRP metabolism during pregnancy, then the next step would be to consider measuring total plasma TRP levels on postpartum days 1 to 5 to identify women at greater risk of developing PPD.
Validation of a COVID-19 mental health and wellness survey questionnaire
Authors: El Tantawi Maha , Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin , Nguyen Annie Lu , Aly Nourhan M. , Ezechi Oliver , Uzochukwu Benjamin S. C. , Alaba Oluwatoyin Adedoyin , Brown Brandon
Published: August 2022

Background and aim

COVID-19 affected mental health and wellbeing. Research is needed to assess its impact using validated tools. The study assessed the content validity, reliability and dimensionality of a multidimensional tool for assessing the mental health and wellbeing of adults.

Methods

An online questionnaire collected data in the second half of 2020 from adults in different countries. The questionnaire included nine sections assessing: COVID-19 experience and sociodemographic profile; health and memory; pandemic stress (pandemic stress index, PSI); financial and lifestyle impact; social support; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); coping strategies; self-care and HIV profile over 57 questions. Content validity was assessed (content validity index, CVI) and participants evaluated the test-retest reliability (Kappa statistic and intra-class correlation coefficient, ICC). Internal consistency of scales was assessed (Cronbach α). The dimensionality of the PSI sections and self-care strategies was assessed by multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) using all responses and SPSS. For qualitative validation, we used a semi-structured interview and NVivo was used for coding and thematic analysis.

Results

The overall CVI = 0.83 with lower values for the memory items. Cronbach α for the memory items = 0.94 and ICC = 0.71. Cronbach α for PTSD items was 0.93 and ICC = 0.89. Test-retest scores varied by section. The 2-dimensions solution of MCA for the PSI behavior section explained 33.6% (precautionary measures dimension), 11.4% (response to impact dimension) and overall variance = 45%. The 2-dimensions of the PSI psychosocial impact explained 23.5% (psychosocial impact of the pandemic dimension), 8.3% (psychosocial impact of the precautionary measures of the pandemic dimension) and overall variance = 31.8%. The 2-dimensions of self-care explained 32.9% (dimension of self-care strategies by people who prefer to stay at home and avoid others), 9% (dimension of self-care strategies by outward-going people) and overall variance = 41.9%. Qualitative analysis showed that participants agreed that the multidimensional assessment assessed the effect of the pandemic and that it was better suited to the well-educated.

Conclusion

The questionnaire has good content validity and can be used to assess the impact of the pandemic in cross-sectional studies especially as individual items. The PSI and self-care strategies need revision to ensure the inclusion of items with strong discrimination.
The economic burden of treating uncomplicated hypertension in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic literature review
Authors: Gnugesser E. , Chwila C. , Brenner S. , Deckert A. , Dambach P. , Steinert J. I. , Bärnighausen T. , Horstick O. , Antia K. , Louis V. R.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

Hypertension is one of the leading cardiovascular risk factors with high numbers of undiagnosed and untreated patients in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA). The health systems and affected people are often overwhelmed by the social and economic burden that comes with the disease. However, the research on the economic burden and consequences of hypertension treatment remains scare in SSA. The objective of our review was to compare different hypertension treatment costs across the continent and identify major cost drivers.

Material and Methods

Systematic literature searches were conducted in multiple databases (e.g., PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar) for peer reviewed articles written in English language with a publication date from inception to Jan. 2022. We included studies assessing direct and indirect costs of hypertension therapy in SSA from a provider or user perspective. The search and a quality assessment were independently executed by two researchers. All results were converted to 2021 US Dollar.

Results

Of 3999 results identified in the initial search, 33 were selected for data extraction. Costs differed between countries, costing perspectives and cost categories. Only 25% of the SSA countries were mentioned in the studies, with Nigeria dominating the research with a share of 27% of the studies. We identified 15 results each from a user or provider perspective. Medication costs were accountable for the most part of the expenditures with a range from 1.70$ to 97.06$ from a patient perspective and 0.09$ to 193.55$ from a provider perspective per patient per month. Major cost drivers were multidrug treatment, inpatient or hospital care and having a comorbidity like diabetes.

Conclusion

Hypertension poses a significant economic burden for patients and governments in SSA. Interpreting and comparing the results from different countries and studies is difficult as there are different financing methods and cost items are defined in different ways. However, our results identify medication costs as one of the biggest cost contributors. When fighting the economic burden in SSA, reducing medication costs in form of subsidies or special interventions needs to be considered.

Trial registration

Registration: PROSPERO, ID CRD42020220957.
Influence of occupational exposure on hyperuricemia in steelworkers: a nested case–control study
Authors: Chen Yuanyu , Yang Yongzhong , Zheng Ziwei , Wang Hui , Wang Xuelin , Si Zhikang , Meng Rui , Wang Guoli , Wu Jianhui
Published: August 2022

Background

Occupational exposure may be associated with an increased risk of developing hyperuricemia. This study sheds lights on the association between occupational exposure and hyperuricemia in steelworkers.

Method

A nested case–control study was conducted within a cohort of workers in steel companies to explore the association between occupational exposure and hyperuricemia. The case group consisted of a total of 641 cases of hyperuricemia identified during the study period, while 641 non-hyperuricemia subjects with the same age and gender distribution were randomly selected from the cohort as the control group.

Results

The incidence rate of hyperuricemia among workers in the steel company was 17.30%, with an incidence density of 81.32/1,000 person-years. In comparison to the reference group, the risks of developing hyperuricemia for steelworkers undergoing ever shifts, current shifts, heat exposure, and dust exposure were 2.18 times, 1.81 times, 1.58 times and 1.34 times higher respectively. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 1.87(1.12–3.13) and 2.02(1.21–3.37) for the cumulative number of days of night work at 0–1,972.80 and ≥ 1,972.80 (days), respectively. Compared to the group with the cumulative heat exposure of 0 (°C/year), the ORs (95% CI) for the risk of developing hyperuricemia in the groups with the cumulative heat exposure of 0–567.83 and ≥ 567.83 (°C/year) were 1.50(1.02–2.22) and 1.64(1.11–2.43), respectively. The OR (95% CI) for the risk of developing hyperuricemia was 1.56(1.05–2.32) at the cumulative dust exposure of ≥ 30.02 (mg/m3/year) compared to that at the cumulative dust exposure of 0 (mg/m3/year). Furthermore, there was a multiplicative interaction between heat exposure and dust exposure in the development of hyperuricemia.

Conclusion

Shift work, heat, and dust are independent risk factors for the development of hyperuricemia in steelworkers. Additionally, there is a multiplicative interaction between heat exposure and dust exposure in the development of hyperuricemia. Interventions for shift work, heat and dust may help to reduce the incidence rate of hyperuricemia and improve the health of steelworkers.
A feasibility trial of pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with COPD in a low resource setting: Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Authors: Sooriyakanthan Mathanki , Orme Mark W. , Sivapalan Kanagasabai , Selvaratnam Gowry , Singh Sally J. , Wimalasekera Savithri
Published: August 2022

Background

Pulmonary rehabilitation is recommended for most patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Accordingly, the aim of this study was to explore the feasibility of devising a pulmonary rehabilitation program for patients with COPD in a low resource setting (Jaffna, Sri Lanka) and to observe its effects.

Methods

Non-randomized controlled feasibility trial of ambulatory patients with COPD attending the pulmonary outpatient clinic of the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, Northern Province, Sri Lanka. Age-matched patients were allocated alternatively to an intervention group or to a control group. Twice weekly, for six weeks, patients in the intervention group attended pulmonary rehabilitation sessions consisting of supervised stretching, aerobic and strengthening exercises, and patient-education. Before and at the conclusion of the study, all patients performed incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT), 6-min walk test (6MWT) and completed the Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea scale, COPD assessment test (CAT), chronic COPD questionnaire (CCQ), and hospital anxiety depression scale (HADS).

Results

204 patients with COPD (94% males) were identified at screening; 136 (66.7%) were eligible for pulmonary rehabilitation and 96 patients (47%) consented to participate. Of these, 54 patients (53 males) eventually participated in the study (42 patients were discouraged to participate by family members or friends); 40 patients (20 in the rehabilitation group and 20 patients in the control group) completed the study. Baseline characteristics of the intervention group and the control group were similar. 95% of patients in the intervention group adhered to regular home training exercises (self-reported diary). At post assessment, only the intervention group experienced clinically-meaningful improvements in symptoms and exercise capacity.

Conclusion

A simple and clinically beneficial pulmonary rehabilitation program for patients with COPD can be effectively implemented in a low resource setting. However, there is a need for educating patients and the local community on the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation to enhance uptake.

Retrospective Trial Registration date and number: 16/04/2021, ISRCTN10069208.
The association of uric acid with the development of thyroid nodules: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Yingshi , Li Zexin , Yang Kaiji , Zhang Lili , Wei Chiju , Yang Peixuan , Xu Wencan
Published: August 2022

Background

Uric acid was found to have a positive correlation with thyroid nodules in the cross-sectional studies recently. We aimed to conduct a retrospective cohort study to investigate whether uric acid is a risk factor for the development of thyroid nodules.

Methods

We reviewed the data of individuals who attended the medical check-ups in our hospital from 2010 to 2019. A total of 6587 adults without thyroid nodules at baseline were enrolled in this study. Logistic regression with or without restricted cubic spline function was used to investigate the non-linear or linear association between uric acid and thyroid nodules, respectively.

Results

Baseline characteristics showed that subjects mainly consisted of the healthy, young population. After fully adjusting for the potential confounders, such as age, sex, metabolic and inflammatory indicators, hepatic and renal function, a logistic restricted cubic spline regression model suggested that uric acid had a significant association (P = 0.028) with the development of thyroid nodules, but the association was not non-linear (P = 0.516). The results indicate that the association between them is linear, which was demonstrated by a logistic regression model, in which the odds ratio of uric acid per 100 mmol/L was 1.137 (P = 0.004). Age, sex, diastolic blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and blood monocyte were found to be risk factors for thyroid nodules as well.

Conclusion

Uric acid is an independent risk factor for the formation of thyroid nodules. This finding warrants attention to this risk factor in apparently healthy adults.
Tooth whitening with an experimental toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles
Authors: Shang Ren , Kaisarly Dalia , Kunzelmann Karl-Heinz
Published: August 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the postbrushing tooth-whitening effect of toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nano-HAPs). The impact of the concentration on the whitening performance of nano-HAP toothpaste was also investigated.

Methods

Two concentrations of nano-HAP (10 wt% and 1 wt%) were incorporated in nonabrasive toothpastes. Forty bovine incisors were randomly assigned into four groups: 10 wt% nano-HAP, 1 wt% nano-HAP, toothpaste without nano-HAP as a negative control and water as a blank control. Each tooth was treated with the toothpaste three times and hydrodynamic shear force (HSF) once. The teeth surfaces were observed by SEM after each application. Tooth color (L*, a* and b* values) was measured by a spectrophotometer, and color changes (△E, △L, △a and △b values) were calculated. Two-way mixed ANOVA was performed to evaluate the influence of the concentration and repeated application on the tooth-whitening effect of nano-HAP.

Results

We found that nano-HAP-treated enamel exhibited higher L* values and lower a* and b* values than the control groups (P < 0.05). The 10 wt% nano-HAP group showed significantly higher △E values than the 1 wt% nano-HAP group (P < 0.05). After three applications, the △E mean value of the 10 wt% nano-HAP group was 4.47. The △E and △L values were slightly reduced after HSF (P < 0.05). For both nano-HAP groups, HAP single crystallites and agglomerates were identified, and their sizes grew with nano-HAP reapplication.

Conclusions

In conclusion, nano-HAP toothpaste has a satisfying postbrushing whitening effect and good resistance to mechanical forces. The whitening effect seemed to be concentration-dependent.
Primary stability of different implant macrodesigns in a sinus floor elevation simulated model: an ex vivo study
Authors: Imai Mikio , Ogino Yoichiro , Tanaka Hideaki , Koyano Kiyoshi , Ayukawa Yasunori , Toyoshima Takeshi
Published: August 2022

Background

A novel type of implant (Straumann® BLX implant) has been developed for certain stability from the mechanical and biological aspects and is expected for the implant placement in atrophic maxilla with sinus floor elevation (SFE).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the primary stability in the implants with different macrodesigns in an SFE simulated model. Primary stabilities defined as maximum insertion torque (MIT) and implant stability quotient (ISQ) were compared between this novel type of implant and other types.

Materials and Methods

Five types of Straumann® 10 mm length implants (Standard Plus; SP, Tapered Effect; TE, Bone Level; BL, Bone Level Tapered; BLT and BLX) and two types of Straumann® 6 mm length implants (SP short, BLX short) were used in this study. Each implant was inserted through 5 mm–thick porcine iliac crest blocks (an SFE simulated model). Primary stability was evaluated by using MIT and ISQ.

Results

The mean value of MIT for BLX group showed significantly higher values than SP, BL (p < 0.01), and TE (p < 0.05) groups. The mean value of ISQ for BLX group was significantly higher than the other groups (p < 0.01). The mean value of MIT and ISQ for BLX and BLX short group were significantly higher than those for SP and SP short group (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

In an SFE simulated ex vivo model, BLX group showed the highest values. These results suggest that implant selection can play a crucial role in the achievement of primary stability during SFE and simultaneous implant placement.
Vitamin D, oral health, and disease characteristics in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Cetrelli Lena , Bletsa Athanasia , Lundestad Anette , Gil Elisabet Grut , Fischer Johannes , Halbig Josefine , Frid Paula , Angenete Oskar , Lillevoll Ingrid , Rosén Annika , Tylleskär Karin B. , Luukko Keio , Nordal Ellen , Åstrøm Anne Nordrehaug , Skeie Marit Slåttelid , Feuerherm Astrid Jullumstrø , Sen Abhijit , Rygg Marite
Published: August 2022

Background

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with autoimmune diseases and oral health. Knowledge about the association between vitamin D status and oral conditions in JIA is limited. We aimed to investigate vitamin D status in a cohort of Norwegian children and adolescents with JIA and possible associations between serum vitamin D levels, clinical indicators of oral health, and JIA disease characteristics.

Methods

This multi-center, cross-sectional study, included individuals with JIA aged 4–16 years from three geographically spread regions in Norway. Demographic data, age at disease onset, disease duration, JIA category, disease status, medication, and vitamin D intake were registered. One blood sample per individual was analyzed for 25(OH) vitamin D, and the level of insufficiency was defined as < 50 nmol/L. A clinical oral examination was performed applying commonly used indices in epidemiological studies of dental caries, dental erosion, enamel defects, gingival bleeding, and oral hygiene. Serum vitamin D was used as exposure variable in multivariable regression analyses to estimate the associations between insufficient vitamin D level, JIA disease status, and oral conditions, with adjustments for age, sex, geographical region, BMI, seasonal blood sampling, and parental education.

Results

Among the 223 participants with JIA, 97.3% were Caucasians, 59.2% were girls, and median age was 12.6 years. Median disease duration was 4.6 years, and 44.4% had oligoarticular JIA. Mean serum vitamin D level was 61.4 nmol/L and 29.6% had insufficient levels. Vitamin D levels did not differ between sexes, but between regions, iso-BMI categories, age groups, and seasons for blood sampling. Insufficient vitamin D levels were associated with dentin caries (adjusted OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.43–5.86) and gingival bleeding (adjusted OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.10–5.01). No associations were found with active JIA disease or more severe disease characteristics.

Conclusion

In our study, nearly 30% had vitamin D insufficiency, with a particularly high prevalence among adolescents. Vitamin D insufficiency was associated with dentin caries and gingival bleeding, but not with JIA disease activity. These results point to the need for a multidisciplinary approach in the follow-up of children with JIA, including an increased focus on vitamin D status and oral health.
Macrophages in close proximity to the vitreoretinal interface are potential biomarkers of inflammation during retinal vascular disease
Authors: Rajesh Amrita , Droho Steven , Lavine Jeremy A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion are vision threatening retinal vascular diseases. Current first-line therapy targets the vascular component, but many patients are treatment-resistant due to unchecked inflammation. Non-invasive inflammatory imaging biomarkers are a significant unmet clinical need for patients. Imaging of macrophage-like cells on the surface of the retina using clinical optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emerging field. These cells are increased in patients with retinal vascular disease, and could be a potential inflammatory biomarker. However, since OCT is limited by an axial resolution of 5–10 microns, the exact location and identity of these retinal cells is currently unknown.

Methods

We performed OCT followed by confocal immunofluorescence in wild-type mice to identify macrophages within 5–10 microns of the vitreoretinal interface. Next, we used Cx3cr1CreER/+; Rosa26zsGreen/+ mice to fate map retinal surface macrophages. Using confocal immunofluorescence of retinal sections and flatmounts, we quantified IBA1+Tmem119+CD169neg microglia, IBA1+Tmem119negCD169neg perivascular macrophages, and IBA1+Tmem119negCD169+ vitreal hyalocytes. Finally, we modeled neuroinflammation with CCL2 treatment and characterized retinal surface macrophages using flow cytometry, OCT, and confocal immunofluorescence.

Results

We were able to detect IBA1+ macrophages within 5–10 microns of the vitreoretinal interface in wild-type mice using OCT followed by confirmatory confocal immunofluorescence. Retinal surface macrophages were 83.5% GFP+ at Week 1 and 82.4% GFP+ at Week 4 using fate mapping mice. At steady state, these macrophages included 82% IBA1+Tmem119+CD169neg microglia, 9% IBA1+Tmem119negCD169+ vitreal hyalocytes, and 9% IBA1+Tmem119negCD169neg perivascular macrophages. After CCL2-driven neuroinflammation, many Ly6C+ cells were detectable on the retinal surface using OCT followed by confocal immunofluorescence.

Conclusions

Macrophages within close proximity to the vitreoretinal interface are self-renewing cells, and predominantly microglia with minor populations of perivascular macrophages and vitreal hyalocytes at steady state. In the context of neuroinflammation, monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages are a significant component of retinal surface macrophages. Human OCT-based imaging of retinal surface macrophages is a potential biomarker for inflammation during retinal vascular disease.
A comparison of expressed emotion between mothers and their adolescent daughters with and without a history of nonsuicidal self-injury
Authors: Tschan Taru , Pfeiffer Simone , Gutzweiler Raphael , In-Albon Tina
Published: August 2022

Background

Expressed Emotion refers to the extent to which close relatives express critical/hostile and/or emotionally overinvolved attitudes and feelings when speaking about a family member. High Expressed Emotion is a valuable predictor of clinical outcomes and is related to the presence of various mental disorders, including nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI).

Interpersonal factors have been shown to be relevant in initiating and in maintaining with NSSI, as interpersonal difficulties are often reported as triggers for emotional dysregulation. The parental role in the etiology and treatment of NSSI needs to be further investigated. This study assesses Expressed Emotion in adolescents who engage in NSSI and their mothers.

Method

We examined Expressed Emotion levels of mother–daughter dyads among adolescents who engage in NSSI, clinical controls (CCs), and nonclinical controls (NCs). The sample consisted of 70 female adolescents aged 12–20 years (M = 15.28 years, SD = 1.81; NSSI: n = 21, CC: n = 17, NC: n = 32) and 24 mothers aged 38–56 years (M = 46.47 years, SD = 4.61) using The Five-Minute Speech Sample (FMSS).

Results

Adolescents who engage in NSSI exhibited significantly more covert criticism and critical tone toward their mothers than CCs (d = 0.65, d = 1.10) and NCs (d = 1.30, d = 1.10).

Conclusion

The findings highlight the importance of family-based interventions for the treatment of NSSI in order to enhance a positive relationship quality between parents and adolescents.
Epigenetic signature of N-terminal acetyltransferases: a probable mediator of immune and neuropathogenesis in HIV infection
Authors: Sundar Vaishnavi , McLaughlin Jay P. , Samikkannu Thangavel
Published: August 2022

HIV is a major global public threat burdening society, yet the exact mechanism of HIV pathogenesis needs to be elucidated. In the era of epigenetic therapy, N-terminal acetylation (Nt-acetylation) changes induced by viral infection might play a critical role in virus–host interactions in HIV infection. The mitochondrial epigenetic mechanism, predominantly Nt acetylation, holds HIV immunopathogenesis and is vastly unexplored. The challenge is to single out the specific pathological role of NAT changes in HIV-associated neurodegeneration. Therefore, this nano review aims to shine light on Nt acetylation in HIV pathogenesis, which we believe can lead to effective future therapeutic strategies against HIV-associated neurodegeneration.