bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation into the prevalence of enterotoxin genes and genetic background of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from retain foods in Hangzhou, China
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhao Gang , Yang Wei , Chen Fuhong , Qi Yan , Lou Zhengqing
Published: October 2023

Background

Staphylococcus aureus expresses numerous toxins, many of which are strongly believed to be responsible for specific symptoms and even diseases, making it significant in the pathogenesis of human health. Enterotoxins, which are vital toxins, are associated with foodborne illnesses that manifest through symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. In the present study, 264 S. aureus isolates obtained from various retail foods in Hangzhou, China were further investigated the profiles of enterotoxin genes and genetic backgrounds.

Results

Approximately, 64.02% of the isolates from diverse sources contained at least one Staphylococcal Enterotoxin (SE) genes, displaying a total of 36 distinct combinations. Enterotoxin gene cluster (egc) encoded enterotoxin genes, normally designated by seg, sei, sem, sen, seo and selu, plus with sep were more frequently detected (33.73%, each). In contrast, see, ses and set were absent in any of the isolates tested. A total of 44 sequence types (STs), 20 clonal complexes (CCs) and 66 different staphylococcal protein A (spa) types (including six novel types) were identified among those 169 SE-positive isolates. Moreover, nineteen methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates were identified. The majority of those isolates belonged to the CC59-Sccmec IVa cluster and carried the seb-sek-seq gene cluster. The egc cluster, either coexisting with or without other enterotoxin genes, was observed in all isolates allocated into CC5, CC9, CC20, CC25, CC72 and ST672. Irrespective of the spa types and origins of the food, it appeared that seh was a distinct genetic element present in isolates belonging to the CC1 clonal lineage.

Conclusions

The results not only proposed a suspected relationship between distribution of enterotoxigenic strains and genetic backgrounds, but also attributed the presence of novel enterotoxins to potential hazards in food safety.
High-throughput method for Oxygen Consumption Rate measurement (OCR) in plant mitochondria
Authors: Fuchs Hanna , Malecka Arleta , Budzinska Adrianna , Jarmuszkiewicz Wieslawa , Ciszewska Liliana , Staszak Aleksandra M. , Kijowska-Oberc Joanna , Ratajczak Ewelina
Published: October 2023

Background

Conventional methods to measure oxygen consumption, such as Clark-type electrodes, have limitations such as requiring a large amount of starting material. Moreover, commercially available kits for high-throughput methods are usually optimized for animal cells and mitochondria. Here, we present a novel method to measure the oxygen consumption rate using a high-throughput assay in isolated mitochondria of European beech seeds. To perform the measurements, we adapted the Agilent Seahorse XF Cell Mito Stress Test Kit protocol for measurements on plant mitochondria.

Results

The optimized protocol for OCR measurement of mitochondria isolated from beech seeds allowed the observation of storage period-dependent gradual decreases in non-phosphorylating respiration, phosphorylating respiration and maximal FCCP-stimulated respiration. The longer the seeds were stored, the greater the impairment of respiratory function.

Conclusions

Thanks to this method it is possible to minimize the amount of plant material and conduct research to obtain information on the respiratory condition and activity of plant mitochondria, including the efficiency of oxidative phosphorylation and the maximum oxidative capacity of the respiratory chain. We demonstrated that the improved protocol is suitable for study of plant material.
Total intravenous anesthesia decreases hospital stay but not incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications after lung resection surgery: a propensity score matching study
Authors: Hsu Fu-Kai , Cheng Hung-Wei , Teng Wei-Nung , Hsu Po-Kuei , Hsu Han-Shui , Chang Wen-Kuei , Ting Chien‑Kun
Published: October 2023

Background

There is no consensus regarding the superiority of volatile or total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) in reducing the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) after lung resection surgery (LRS). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the different anesthetic regimens and the incidence of PPCs in patients who underwent LRS. We hypothesized that TIVA is associated with a lower incidence of PPCs than volatile anesthesia.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent LRS at Taipei Veterans General Hospital between January 2016 and December 2020. The patients’ charts were reviewed and data on patient characteristics, perioperative features, and postoperative outcomes were extracted and analyzed. The patients were categorized into TIVA or volatile anesthesia groups and their clinical data were compared. Propensity score matching was performed to reduce potential selection bias. The primary outcome was the incidence of PPCs, whereas the secondary outcomes were the incidences of other postoperative events, such as length of hospital stay (LOS) and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).

Results

A total of 392 patients each were included in the TIVA and volatile anesthesia groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of PPCs between the volatile anesthesia and TIVA groups. The TIVA group had a shorter LOS (p < 0.001) and a lower incidence of PONV than the volatile anesthesia group (4.6% in the TIVA group vs. 8.2% in the volatile anesthesia group; p = 0.041). However, there were no significant differences in reintubation, 30-day readmission, and re-operation rates between the two groups.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference between the incidence of PPCs in patients who underwent LRS under TIVA and that in patients who underwent LRS under volatile anesthesia. However, TIVA had shorter LOS and lower incidence of PONV which may be a better choice for maintenance of anesthesia in patients undergoing LRS.
Association of serum uric acid with prognosis in patients with myocardial infarction: an update systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rong Jiacheng , Fang Cheng , Chen Xudong , Hong Chaokun , Huang Lei
Published: October 2023

Background

The prognostic significance of serum uric acid (SUA) in individuals who have experienced myocardial infarction (MI) remains a subject of academic debate. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the occurrence of immediate and long-term adverse outcomes in individuals with elevated levels of uric acid (UA) following a diagnosis of MI.

Method

This study conducted a literature search from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, Cochrane Library, Emcrae, and Scopus to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prognostic impact of MI with a hyper SUA to assess short-term (30-day or in-hospital) and long-term mortality, the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and its adverse event rate in relation to SUA. The literature search was conducted up until April 2023. A random effects model and risk ratio (RR) were used as epidemiological indicators. For indicators with low disease rates, treatment intensity was reduced and RR was considered equivalent to odds ratio (OR). Hazard Ratio (HR), RR, and OR extracted from the data were simultaneously subjected to multivariable adjustment for confounding factors. In addition,Pvalues for all original hypotheses were extracted and a meta-analysis was conducted. High SUA was defined as SUA levels equal to or greater than 420 μmol/L (7.0 mg/dL) for males and equal to or greater than 357 μmol/L (6.0 mg/dL) for females. The quality of the literature was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results

This comprehensive study included a total of 41 investigations, involving a large sample size of 225,600 individuals who had experienced MI. The findings from the meta-analysis reveal that patients diagnosed with hyperuricemia have significantly increased rates of short-term mortality (RR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.86, 2.48) and short-term incidence of MACE (RR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.65–2.11). Furthermore, long-term adverse outcomes, including all-cause mortality (RR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.40–1.51) and incidence of MACE (RR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.35–1.52), were also found to be higher in this specific patient population.

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed with MI and elevated SUA levels exhibit a heightened incidence of MACE during their hospital stay. Furthermore, these individuals also experience elevated rates of in-hospital mortality and mortality within one year of hospitalization. However, it is important to note that further randomized controlled trials are necessary to validate and authenticate these findings.
Barriers to hepatitis B virus screening of pregnant women in primary healthcare centers in Nigeria: health workers’ perspective
Authors: Olakunde Babayemi O. , Adeyinka Daniel A. , Olakunde Olubunmi A. , Raji Hasiya B. , Yahaya Hidayat B. , Ijaodola Olugbengba A. , Adesigbin Clement O.
Published: October 2023

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening is an important component of antenatal care for pregnant women in Nigeria. However, the screening rates remain low, particularly at primary healthcare centers (PHCs). The objective of this study was to identify the barriers affecting antenatal HBV screening in PHCs in Nigeria from the perspective of health workers.

Methods

We conducted a survey among 30 health workers from 30 PHCs (one per PHC) across three states (Akwa Ibom, Anambra, and Kaduna) in Nigeria. An open-ended questionnaire was used to obtain written responses on the perceived barriers limiting antenatal HBV screening in PHCs and their recommended solutions to the identified barriers. The data were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach.

Results

The perceived barriers exist at patient, provider and health system levels. They included: lack of test kits, unaffordability of HBV test, shortage of trained personnel, poor awareness among pregnant women, knowledge of HBV among health workers, high cost of antiviral treatment, and unavailability of HBV vaccine. The recommended solutions to the identified barriers were: making test kits and vaccines available and free, creating awareness about HBV, and capacity-building interventions for health workers.

Conclusions

HBV screening of pregnant women attending PHCs in Nigeria appears to be affected by multilevel barriers. As the country continues to work towards eliminating HBV, these highlighted barriers at the patient, provider and health system levels must be addressed through effective and sustainable interventions.
Preferences for oral-fluid-based or blood-based HIV self-testing and provider-delivered testing: an observational study among different populations in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mavhu Webster , Makamba Memory , Hatzold Karin , Maringwa Galven , Takaruza Albert , Mutseta Miriam , Ncube Getrude , Cowan Frances M. , Sibanda Euphemia L.
Published: October 2023

Background

There is limited data on client preferences for different HIV self-testing (HIVST) and provider-delivered testing options and associated factors. We explored client preferences for oral-fluid-based self-testing (OFBST), blood-based self-testing (BBST) and provider-delivered blood-based testing (PDBBT) among different populations.

Methods

At clinics providing HIV testing services to general populations (1 urban, 1 rural clinic), men seeking voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC, 1 clinic), and female sex workers (FSW, 1 clinic), clients had the option to test using OFBST, BBST or PDBBT. A pre-test questionnaire collected information on demographics and testing history. Two weeks after collecting a self-test kit, participants responded to a questionnaire. We used logistic regression to determine predictors of choices. We also conducted 20 in-depth interviews to contextualise quantitative findings.

Results

May to June 2019, we recruited 1244 participants of whom 249 (20%), 251 (20%), 244 (20%) and 500 (40%) were attending urban general, rural, VMMC and FSW clinics, respectively. Half (n = 619, 50%) chose OFBST, 440 (35%) and 185 (15%) chose BBST and PDBBT, respectively. In multivariable analysis comparing those choosing HIVST (OFBST and BBST combined) versus not, those who had never married aOR 0.57 (95% CI 0.34–0.93) and those previously married aOR0.56 (0.34–0.93) were less likely versus married participants to choose HIVST. HIVST preference increased with education, aOR 2.00 (1.28–3.13), 2.55 (1.28–5.07), 2.76 (1.48–5.14) for ordinary, advanced and tertiary education, respectively versus none/primary education. HIVST preference decreased with age aOR 0.97 (0.96–0.99). Urban participants were more likely than rural ones to choose HIVST, aOR 9.77 (5.47–17.41), 3.38 (2.03–5.62) and 2.23 (1.38–3.61) for FSW, urban general and VMMC clients, respectively. Comparing those choosing OFBST with those choosing BBST, less literate participants were less likely to choose oral fluid tests, aOR 0.29 (0.09–0.92).

Conclusions

Most testing clients opted for OFBST, followed by BBST and lastly, PDBBT. Those who self-assessed as less healthy were more likely to opt for PDBBT which likely facilitated linkage. Results show importance of continued provision of all strategies in order to meet needs of different populations, and may be useful to inform both HIVST kit stock projections and tailoring of HIVST programs to meet the needs of different populations.
Aortic endograft infection by Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense with acquired clarithromycin resistance: a case report
Authors: Akiyama Yutaro , Iwamoto Noriko , Kamada Keisuke , Yoshida Atsushi , Osugi Asami , Mitarai Satoshi , Suzuki Tetsuya , Yamamoto Kei , Nagashima Maki , Horai Tetsuya , Ohmagari Norio
Published: October 2023

Background

Mycobacterium abscessus subsp. massiliense (MMA) comprises a group of non-tuberculous, rapidly growing mycobacteria. Although MMA can cause pulmonary diseases, surgical site infections, and disseminated diseases, aortic endograft infection has not been reported. Here, we describe the first case of aortic endograft infection caused by MMA.

Case presentation

Two months after stent-graft insertion for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, an 85-year-old man was admitted with fever and abdominal pain and was diagnosed with aortic endograft infection. Despite 14 days of meropenem and vancomycin intravenous administration, periaortic fluid pooling increased as compared to that before antibiotic administration. The abscess was drained, and fluorescent acid-fast staining of the abscess fluid revealed bacilli. We conducted genetic tests on the genes hsp65, rpoB, and sodA, performed Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), and identified the organism as MMA. Intravenous imipenem–cilastatin (IPM/CS), amikacin (AMK), and oral clarithromycin (CAM) were administered. After 2 months, oral CAM and sitafloxacin were administered because the abscess had decreased in size. However, after 6 weeks, the abscess increased in size again. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the drainage fluid from the abscess resulted in the isolation of an MMA strain that had acquired resistance to CAM. Intravenous IPM/CS, AMK, and oral linezolid were added to the treatment regimen along with oral CAM and STFX. However, he was not fully cured and died 6 months later. Neither the full-length erythromycin ribosome methyltransferase (erm)(41) gene nor the rrl or rpIV gene mutations were found by Sanger sequencing in the pre- and post-treatment strains. Whole-genome sequence analysis of the post-treatment strain revealed mutations in genes with no previous reports of association with macrolide resistance.

Conclusions

Aortic endograft infection caused by MMA strain is extremely rare; nonetheless, MMA should be suspected as the causative microorganism when broad-spectrum antimicrobials are ineffective.
Association between gut microbiota and influenza: a bidirectional two-sample mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xu Fan , Gan Xiuyuan , Tao Yang , Li Dongling , Xie Puguang , Liu Fangying , Yang Fan , Ma Yu
Published: October 2023

Background

Previous observational studies have indicated a correlation between the gut microbiota and influenza; however, the exact nature of the bidirectional causal connection remains uncertain.

Method

A two-way, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted to evaluate the possible causal connection between the gut microbiota and the two outcomes of influenza (pneumonia without influenza and influenza pneumonia). The statistical analysis of gut microbiota is derived from the information of the most extensive meta-analysis (GWAS) conducted by the MiBioGen Alliance, encompassing a sample size of 18,340.The summary statistical data for influenza (not pneumonia, n = 291,090) and influenza pneumonia (n = 342,499) are from GWAS data published by FinnGen consortium R8.Estimate and summarize Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using Inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR Egger, and Weighted median (WM) in bidirectional MR analysis. To assess the heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, and stability of SNPs, we employed Cochran’s Q test, MR Egger intercept test, and sensitivity analysis.

Result

The IVW analysis indicated that there was a significant association between influenza infection and five bacterial taxa. Additionally, the abundance changes of seven gut microbiota were found to be causally related to influenza infection. In addition, seven bacterial taxa showed a significant association with the occurrence of influenza pneumonia. The findings from the WM analysis largely support the outcomes of IVW, however, the results of MR egger analysis do not align with IVW. Furthermore, there is no proof to substantiate the cause-and-effect relationship between influenza pneumonia and the composition of gut microbiota.

Conclusion

This analysis demonstrates a possible bidirectional causal connection between the prevalence of particular gut microbiota and the occurrence of influenza infection. The presence of certain gut microbiota may potentially contribute to the development of pneumonia caused by influenza. Additional investigation into the interaction between particular bacterial communities and influenza can enhance efforts in preventing, monitoring, and treating influenza.
Incidence and risk factors for postoperative delirium after head and neck cancer surgery: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Dong Bo , Yu Dongdong , Jiang Li , Liu Meinv , Li Jianli
Published: October 2023

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a frequent neurologic dysfunction that often leads to more negative outcomes. Early identification of patients who are vulnerable to POD and early implementation of appropriate management strategies could decrease its occurrence and improve patient prognosis. Therefore, this meta-analysis comprehensively and quantitatively summarized the prevalence and related predictive factors of POD in head and neck cancer surgical patients.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched for observational studies that reported the prevalence and risk factors for POD after head and neck cancer surgery and were published from their inception until December 31, 2022. Two reviewers independently selected qualified articles and extracted data. The qualities of related papers were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). RevMan 5.3 and Stata 15.0 were applied to analysis the data and conduct the meta-analysis.

Results

Sixteen observational studies with 3289 inpatients who underwent head and neck cancer surgery were included in this review. The occurrence of POD ranged from 4.2 to 36.9%, with a pooled incidence of 20% (95% CI 15–24%, I2 = 93.2%). The results of this pooled analysis demonstrated that the statistically significant risk factors for POD were increased age (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03–1.07, P < 0.001), age > 75 years (OR: 6.52, 95% CI: 3.07–13.87, P < 0.001), male sex (OR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.06–4.97, P = 0.04), higher American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.44–3.33, P < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR: 2.73, 95% CI: 1.24–6.01, P = 0.01), and history of smoking (OR: 2.74, 95% CI: 1.13–6.65, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

POD frequently occurs after head and neck cancer surgery. Several independent predictors for POD were identified, which might contribute to identifying patients at high risk for POD and play a prominent role in preventing POD in patients following head and neck cancer surgery.
Development and validation a radiomics nomogram for predicting thymidylate synthase status in hepatocellular carcinoma based on Gd-DTPA contrast enhanced MRI
Authors: Ding Zongren , Wu Yijun , Fang Guoxu , Lin Zhaowang , Lin Kongying , Fu Jun , Huang Qizhen , Tang Yanyan , You Wuyi , Liu Jingfeng , Zeng Yongyi
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a radiomics nomogram for predicting thymidylate synthase (TYMS) status in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by using Gd-DTPA contrast enhanced MRI.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 147 consecutive patients with surgically confirmed HCC and randomly allocated to training and validation set (7:3). The TYMS status was immunohistochemical determined and classified into low TYMS (positive cells ≤ 25%) and high TYMS (positive cells > 25%) groups. Radiomics features were extracted from the arterial phases and portal venous phase of Gd-DTPA contrast enhanced MRI. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were applied for generating the Rad score. Clinical data and MRI findings were assessed to build a clinical model. Rad score combined with clinical features was used to construct radiomics nomogram.

Results

A total of 2260 features were extracted and reduced to 7 features as the most important discriminators to build the Rad score. InAFP was identified as the only independent clinical factors for TYMS status. The radiomics nomogram showed good discrimination in training (AUC, 0.759; 95% CI 0.665–0.838) and validation set (AUC, 0.739; 95% CI 0.585–0.860), and showed better discrimination capability (P < 0.05) compared with clinical model in training (AUC, 0.656; 95% CI 0.555–0.746) and validation set (AUC, 0.622; 95% CI 0.463–0.764).

Conclusions

The radiomics nomogram shows favorable predictive efficacy for TYMS status in HCC, which might be helpful for the personalized treatment of HCC.
DNA methylation-regulated LINC02587 inhibits ferroptosis and promotes the progression of glioma cells through the CoQ-FSP1 pathway
Authors: Wang Zhengang , Cui Yang , Wang Fanchen , Xu Lixia , Yan Yan , Tong Xiaoguang , Yan Hua
Published: October 2023

Background

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are considered key players in the formation and development of tumors. Herein, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was employed as a bioinformatics technology. LINC02587 is differentially expressed in bladder urothelial cancer, glioblastoma, lung adenocarcinoma, lung SCC, melanoma, and other tumor tissue and cells. However, its impact on the emergence of glioma and its mechanism is remaining elusive.

Methods

Some of the in vitro assays employed in this study were the CCK-8 / Annexin-V / Transwell assays, colony formation, and wound healing, together with Western blot (WB) evaluation. MSP / BSP assays were employed for assessing the CpG island’s methylation status in the LINC02587 promoter. Through transcriptome, ferroptosis-related experiments, and WB evaluation, it was confirmed that LINC02587 is correlated with the regulation of ferroptosis in tumor cells, and CoQ-Fsp1 is one of its regulatory pathways. Moreover, the underlined in-vitro results were further validated by in-vivo studies.

Results

The current study shows that the promoter sequence of LINC02587 is regulated by methylation. The silencing of LINC02587 can inhibit cellular proliferative, migrative, and invasive properties, and induce ferroptosis within gliomas through the CoQ-FSP1 pathway.

Conclusions

LINC02587 is likely to be a novel drug target in treating glioma.
Mindfulness-based real-time fMRI neurofeedback: a randomized controlled trial to optimize dosing for depressed adolescents
Authors: Bloom Paul A. , Pagliaccio David , Zhang Jiahe , Bauer Clemens C. C. , Kyler Mia , Greene Keara D. , Treves Isaac , Morfini Francesca , Durham Katherine , Cherner Rachel , Bajwa Zia , Wool Emma , Olafsson Valur , Lee Ray F. , Bidmead Fred , Cardona Jonathan , Kirshenbaum Jaclyn S. , Ghosh Satrajit , Hinds Oliver , Wighton Paul , Galfalvy Hanga , Simpson H. Blair , Whitfield-Gabrieli Susan , Auerbach Randy P.
Published: October 2023

Background

Adolescence is characterized by a heightened vulnerability for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) onset, and currently, treatments are only effective for roughly half of adolescents with MDD. Accordingly, novel interventions are urgently needed. This study aims to establish mindfulness-based real-time fMRI neurofeedback (mbNF) as a non-invasive approach to downregulate the default mode network (DMN) in order to decrease ruminatory processes and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Adolescents (N = 90) with a current diagnosis of MDD ages 13–18-years-old will be randomized in a parallel group, two-arm, superiority trial to receive either 15 or 30 min of mbNF with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Real-time neurofeedback based on activation of the frontoparietal network (FPN) relative to the DMN will be displayed to participants via the movement of a ball on a computer screen while participants practice mindfulness in the scanner. We hypothesize that within-DMN (medial prefrontal cortex [mPFC] with posterior cingulate cortex [PCC]) functional connectivity will be reduced following mbNF(Aim 1: Target Engagement).Additionally, we hypothesize that participants in the 30-min mbNF condition will show greater reductions in within-DMN functional connectivity(Aim 2: Dosing Impact on Target Engagement).Aim 1 will analyze data from all participants as a single-group, and Aim 2 will leverage the randomized assignment to analyze data as a parallel-group trial. Secondary analyses will probe changes in depressive symptoms and rumination.

Discussion

Results of this study will determine whether mbNF reduces functional connectivity within the DMN among adolescents with MDD, and critically, will identify the optimal dosing with respect to DMN modulation as well as reduction in depressive symptoms and rumination.

Trial Registration

This study has been registered with clinicaltrials.gov, most recently updated on July 6, 2023 (trial identifier: NCT05617495).
Association of diet quality with the risk of Sarcopenia based on the Chinese diet balance index 2016: a cross-sectional study among Chinese adults in Henan Province
Authors: Ran Xiaodong , Zhai Junya , Xu Minmin , Zhu Xiaoxi , Ullah Amin , Lyu Quanjun
Published: October 2023

Background

Sarcopenia can lead to a series of unfavourable health outcomes. Diet is an important factor influencing sarcopenia. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the association of sarcopenia with diet quality assessed by the Chinese Diet Balance Index 2016 (DBI-16).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect information on nutrition and health in Henan Province, China, and a total of 644 individuals were studied. Sarcopenia was defined according to the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) criteria updated in 2019. Diet quality was assessed by using the Chinese Diet Balance Index 2016 (DBI-16), which includes three indicators: the lower bound score (LBS), higher bound score (HBS) and diet quality distance (DQD). Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the risk of sarcopenia associated with diet quality.

Results

A total of 49 of the 644 participants were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Excessive intake (score > 0) of cereals, meat, eggs and salt, inadequate intake (score < 0) of vegetables, fruits, dairy products, soybeans and low diet variety were commonly seen in both groups of participants. The participants with sarcopenia had a more serious inadequate intake of fruit than those without sarcopenia (p < 0.05). The overall LBS, HBS and DQD in both groups were in the interval of low-level problems. Compared with participants with a suitable LBS, those with an unsuitable LBS were more likely to have a low gait speed (OR: 2.58; 95%CI: 1.13–7.04) after multiple adjustments. However, the other two DBI-16 indicators, the HBS and DQD, were not associated with sarcopenia or its related diagnostic variables.

Conclusion

Unfavourable diet quality, mainly referring to inadequate dietary intake in this study, may be a risk factor for low gait speed.
The thriving kids and parents schools project: protocol of an incomplete stepped wedged cluster randomised trial evaluating the effectiveness of a Triple P seminar series
Authors: Boyle Christopher , Sanders Matthew R. , Ma Tianyi , Hodges Julie , Allen Kelly-Ann , Cobham Vanessa E. , Darmawan Igusti , Dittman Cassandra K. , Healy Karyn L. , Hepburn Stevie-Jae , MacLeod Lynda M. , Teng Jiachen , Trompf Madilyn
Published: October 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the normality of daily life for many children, their families, and schools, resulting in heightened levels of anxiety, depression, social isolation, and loneliness among young people. An integrated public health model of interventions is needed to address the problem and to safeguard the mental health and wellbeing of children. The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program is one system of parenting support with a strong evidence-base and wide international reach. When implemented as a public health approach, Triple P has demonstrated population level positive effects on child wellbeing. This study will be the first large-scale, multi-site randomised controlled trial of a newly developed, low-intensity variant of Triple P, a school-based seminar series, as a response to the impacts of the pandemic.

Methods

The evaluation will employ an Incomplete Batched Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomised Trial Design. At least 300 Australian primary schools, from South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria will be recruited and randomised in three batches. Within each batch, schools will be randomly assigned to either start the intervention immediately or start in six weeks. Parents will be recruited from participating schools. The Triple P seminar series includes three seminars titled: “The Power of Positive Parenting”, “Helping Your Child to Manage Anxiety”, and “Keeping your Child Safe from Bullying”. Parents will complete measures about child wellbeing, parenting, parenting self-regulation and other key intervention targets at baseline, six weeks after baseline, and 12 weeks after baseline. Intervention effectiveness will be evaluated with a Multilevel Piecewise Latent Growth Curve Modelling approach. Data collection is currently underway, and the current phase of the project is anticipated to be completed in January 2024.

Discussion

The findings from this study will extend the current knowledge of the effects of evidence-based parenting support delivered through brief, universally offered, low intensity, school-based parenting seminars in a post pandemic world.

Trial registration

The trial is registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Trial Registration Number: ACTRN12623000852651).
Reconstruction of complicated spinal tuberculosis with long-segment fibula transplantation: a case report
Authors: Wang RuiYang , Wang FeiFan , Liu Qing , Zhang Fan , Chen JianFeng , Wu Bin , Ru Neng
Published: October 2023

Background

Treating complex cases of spinal tuberculosis (STB) that involve multiple vertebral bodies and cause destruction of the spinal structure, kyphotic deformity, and acute nerve injury can be challenging. This report describes the course of treatment and 5-year follow-up of a complex case of multisegmental STB.

Case presentation

This report describes a case of tuberculosis affecting the vertebrae extending from thoracic 12 to lumbar 5 in a 60-year-old woman who suffered sudden paralysis in both lower extremities. The patient underwent emergency posterior paraspinal abscess clearance, laminectomy with spinal decompression. Partial correction of the kyphotic deformity via long-segment fixation from the T9 vertebral body to the ilium in a one-stage posterior procedure. The patient’s neurological status was diagnosed as grade E on the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) scale after the one-stage operation. Following standardized 4-combination anti-tuberculosis drug therapy for three months in postoperative patients, the patient underwent two-stage transabdominal anterior abscess removal, partial debridement of the lesion and bilateral fibula graft support. One year after the two-stage operation, the patient’s visual analog scale (VAS) score of back pain was 1 point, and the patient’s erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels returned to normal. Five years after the second-stage operation, the Oswestry disability index (ODI) of patient quality of life was 14 points. There was a 4-degree change in the Cobb angle over five years. During the five-year follow-up period, the grafted fibula did not experience any subsidence.

Conclusion

For patients with spinal tuberculosis and acute paralysis, it is essential to relieve spinal cord compression as soon as possible to recover spinal cord function. For lesions that cannot be debrided entirely, although limited debridement combined with anti-tuberculosis drug therapy has the risk of sinus formation and tuberculosis recurrence, it is much safer than the risk of thorough debridement surgery. In this case, an unconventional long-segment fibula graft, pelvis-vertebral support, was an effective reconstruction method.
Oral health outcomes in an HIV cohort with comorbidities- implementation roadmap for a longitudinal prospective observational study
Authors: Omolehinwa Temitope T. , Akintoye Sunday O. , Gabinskiy Marta , Lo Re Vincent , Mupparapu Mel , Urbina Rosa , Schaubel Douglas E. , Corby Patricia M.
Published: October 2023

Background

Long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART) perpetually suppresses HIV load and has dramatically altered the prognosis of HIV infection, such that HIV is now regarded as a chronic disease. Side effects of ART in Patients With HIV (PWH), has introduced new challenges including “metabolic” (systemic) and oral complications. Furthermore, inflammation persists despite great viral load suppression and normal levels of CD4+ cell count.

The impact of ART on the spectrum of oral diseases among PWH is often overlooked relative to other systemic complications. There is paucity of data on oral complications associated with ART use in PWH. This is in part due to limited prospective longitudinal studies designed to better understand the range of oral abnormalities observed in PWH on ART.

Methods

We describe here the study design, including processes associated with subject recruitment and retention, study visit planning, oral health assessments, bio-specimen collection and preprocessing procedures, and data management and statistical plan.

Discussion

We present a procedural roadmap that could be modelled to assess the extent and progression of oral diseases associated with ART in PWH. We also highlight the rigors and challenges associated with our ongoing participant recruitment and retention.

A rigorous prospective longitudinal study requires proper planning and execution. A great benefit is that large data sets are collected and biospecimen repository can be used to answer more questions in future studies including genetic, microbiome and metabolome-based studies.

Trial registration

National Institute of Health Clinical Trials Registration (NCT) #: NCT04645693.
What is the uptake rate of breast self-examination in Iranian women? Estimation based on systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ahadinezhad Bahman , Khosravizadeh Omid , Rafiei Sima , Habibi Nastaran , Karimkhani Zahra , Maleki Aisa
Published: October 2023

Background

Breast self-examination is a simple, painless, confidential and inexpensive screening method for early diagnosis that does not require specialized tools and equipment. In this study, we have estimated the pooled percentage of breast self-examination (BSE) in Iranian women.

Methods

All the published literatures between 2012 and 2022 have been reviewed. Searches were performed in PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scientific Information and Magiran databases. The effect size was the pooled percentage of breast self-examination (BSE). In order to check the heterogeneity, the estimation of the I2 index and extraction of the Galbraith plot were used, and the drivers of heterogeneity have been identified through meta-regression and estimates were made based on subgroups. All the analysis was done in STATA 15.

Results

From the initial 294 records, 38 were included in the final analysis in which 9960 women have been studied. The heterogeneity of the studies was high based on the variation in OR (I2 = 98.4%, heterogeneity X2 = 2278.21 (d.f. = 37), p < 0.01). The pooled rate of BSE based on fixed and random methods was obtained as 15.46 (95% CI: 14.83 to 16.09) and 24.74 (95% CI: 19.62 to 29.86) percent, respectively. The highest pooled percentage BSE (39.41%, 95% CI: 30.98 to 47.83) was obtained from studies that investigated the action phase in the Trans theoretical model. The pooled percentage obtained from the studies conducted in the central regions of Iran was higher than other cities (27.47%, 95% CI: 17.38 to 37.55).

Conclusion

The result from our analysis determined that performing breast self-examination in Iranian women is low. Health policy makers can increase the rate of breast self-examination in Iran by implementing basic educational programs in schools and encouraging and justifying women in social health centers.
A comparative study of machine learning algorithms for predicting domestic violence vulnerability in Liberian women
Authors: Rahman Riaz , Khan Md. Nafiul Alam , Sara Sabiha Shirin , Rahman Md. Asikur , Khan Zahidul Islam
Published: October 2023

Domestic violence against women is a prevalent in Liberia, with nearly half of women reporting physical violence. However, research on the biosocial factors contributing to this issue remains limited. This study aims to predict women’s vulnerability to domestic violence using a machine learning approach, leveraging data from the Liberian Demographic and Health Survey (LDHS) conducted in 2019–2020.

We employed seven machine learning algorithms to achieve this goal, including ANN, KNN, RF, DT, XGBoost, LightGBM, and CatBoost. Our analysis revealed that the LightGBM and RF models achieved the highest accuracy in predicting women’s vulnerability to domestic violence in Liberia, with 81% and 82% accuracy rates, respectively. One of the key features identified across multiple algorithms was the number of people who had experienced emotional violence.

These findings offer important insights into the underlying characteristics and risk factors associated with domestic violence against women in Liberia. By utilizing machine learning techniques, we can better predict and understand this complex issue, ultimately contributing to the development of more effective prevention and intervention strategies.
Effectiveness of a hysteroscopic tissue removal system device for hysteroscopic myomectomy on patients’ quality of life: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Tam Teresa , Juarez Lourdes
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the quality of life in patients treated for submucosal leiomyomas after hysteroscopic myomectomy compared to medical therapy. This is the first prospective randomized analysis comparing outcomes of medical therapy versus hysteroscopic myomectomy using the TruClear™ hysteroscopic tissue removal system to treat heavy menstrual bleeding from submucosal leiomyoma(s).

Methods

Setting: private practice and community-based hospital; subjects: female patients with symptomatic submucosal leiomyomas from 2014 to 2017. A total of 69 patients enrolled, with 47 completed. Statistical analysis used: randomization, linear mixed-effects modeling, hypothesis testing, and intent-to-treat analysis. Each patient was randomized to oral contraceptive pills/progesterone releasing intrauterine device or hysteroscopic myomectomy. Each patient was to complete the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-related Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire at baseline, one month, three months, and greater than or equal to six months after treatment. Main outcome measured: Primary outcome was the health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), as reflected from UFS-QOL scores. Contrasts were constructed from a linear mixed-effects model to compare the two treatment groups for changes from baseline in UFS-QOL scores.

Results

UFS-QOL scores were similar at baseline between the two treatment groups. There was an overall improvement in all UFS-QOL scores within each group. Higher improvement scores were noted in the surgical group compared to the medical group for almost all UFS-QOL scores. At ≥ 6 months, in comparison to the medically managed patients, the most considerable score improvements for the surgical group were reported in HR-QOL concern, activities, self-consciousness and symptom severity scores having mean change scores (95% CIs) of 35.3, 28.9, 28.6, and 32.2, respectively.

Conclusion

Although there was no statistical difference in the change degree of improvement of overall quality of life among patients with symptomatic submucosal leiomyomas who received medical or surgical treatments in the study, there were greater differences in improvements in health-related quality of life scores over time after surgical treatment.
Adapting an evidence-based mindfulness-based intervention for sheltered youth experiencing homelessness
Authors: Santa Maria Diane , Cuccaro Paula , Bender Kimberly , Sibinga Erica , Guerrero Natalie , Keshwani Najiba , Jones Jennifer , Fine Micki
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) face challenges that impact their physical, mental, and social wellbeing, emotion regulation, and coping. Mindfulness reduces stress and improves resilience, emotion regulation, and executive functioning. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) teach the practice of mindfulness to foster present-moment attention without judgement and enhance self-observation and self-regulation, resulting in greater awareness of thoughts and emotions and improved interpersonal relationships. One such intervention, .b, has been shown to lower stress among youth. While a pilot study of .b among sheltered youth found the intervention to be feasible, the need for modifications was identified to improve its relevance, accessibility, and incorporate a trauma-informed approach.

Methods

We used the ADAPT-ITT (Assessment, Decisions, Administration, Production, Topical experts, Integration, Training staff, and Testing) framework to adapt the .b mindfulness intervention to YEH living in an emergency shelter. Nine focus group discussions (n = 56), key informant interviews (n = 8), and beta testing with five youth working group sessions (n = 10) identified needed modifications.

Results

Adaptations to the curriculum and delivery modality were made to approximate the average length of stay in the shelter; integrate trauma-informed care approaches; increase diversity of images by race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, and gender identity; and increase the relevance of the audio-visual components.

Conclusions

Youth and the health and social services providers who care for youth generally liked the core concepts and presentation of the curriculum. Using the ADAPT-ITT framework, minor, yet important, changes were made to increase the relevance, acceptability, and feasibility of the intervention. Next steps are to conduct a randomized attention control pilot study to assess feasibility and acceptability.
Ethical and coordinative challenges in setting up a national cohort study during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Tilch Katharina , Hopff Sina M. , Appel Katharina , Kraus Monika , Lorenz-Depiereux Bettina , Pilgram Lisa , Anton Gabi , Berger Sarah , Geisler Ramsia , Haas Kirsten , Illig Thomas , Krefting Dagmar , Lorbeer Roberto , Mitrov Lazar , Muenchhoff Maximilian , Nauck Matthias , Pley Christina , Reese Jens-Peter , Rieg Siegbert , Scherer Margarete , Stecher Melanie , Stellbrink Christoph , Valentin Heike , Winter Christof , Witzenrath Martin , Vehreschild J. Janne
Published: October 2023

With the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), global researchers were confronted with major challenges. The German National Pandemic Cohort Network (NAPKON) was launched in fall 2020 to effectively leverage resources and bundle research activities in the fight against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We analyzed the setup phase of NAPKON as an example for multicenter studies in Germany, highlighting challenges and optimization potential in connecting 59 university and nonuniversity study sites. We examined the ethics application process of 121 ethics submissions considering durations, annotations, and outcomes. Study site activation and recruitment processes were investigated and related to the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections. For all initial ethics applications, the median time to a positive ethics vote was less than two weeks and 30 of these study sites (65%) joined NAPKON within less than three weeks each. Electronic instead of postal ethics submission (9.5 days (Q1: 5.75, Q3: 17) vs. 14 days (Q1: 11, Q3: 26), p value = 0.01) and adoption of the primary ethics vote significantly accelerated the ethics application process. Each study center enrolled a median of 37 patients during the 14-month observation period, with large differences depending on the health sector. We found a positive correlation between recruitment performance and COVID-19 incidence as well as hospitalization incidence. Our analysis highlighted the challenges and opportunities of the federated system in Germany. Digital ethics application tools, adoption of a primary ethics vote and standardized formal requirements lead to harmonized and thus faster study initiation processes during a pandemic.