bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Hemp Derived Cannabinoid Potency from Consumer Product Goods on in vitro Lung and Liver Cells
Authors: Ramirez Giovanni A. , Docampo-Palacios Maite L. , Tesfatsion Tesfay T. , Pittiglio Monica K. , Ray Kyle P. , Cruces Westley
Published: November 2024

Background: The surge in the popularity of cannabis has led to an increase in the number of companies producing hemp-derived consumable cannabinoid products. Despite extensive exploration of cannabinoid efficacy, safety remains underreported. Any contaminants that are not deemed analytes of interest are ignored, leaving their identities and safety profiles a mystery. The unregulated nature of the cannabinoid market places the onus on reputable companies to set industry standards for product cleanliness. Objective: This study aimed to address this gap by assessing high and low potency forms of three popular hemp-derived cannabinoids – Delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC), Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), and Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol (Δ9-THCP). Methods: After identifying contaminants, the products were evaluated for toxicity in vitro using one liver and two lung cell lines in an effort to simulate the effects of oral consumption and inhalation. Results: Our study revealed that none of the compounds exhibited toxicity in the liver cell line, while all of the compounds exhibited toxicity in both of the lung cell lines – with the exception of one high-potency HHC sample. Conclusion: These findings highlight the critical need for stringent quality control in the cannabinoid industry, emphasizing the importance for both companies and consumers to prioritize clean, well-tested products to ensure safety in an increasingly unregulated market.
Assessment of Gender Equality and Workplace Harassment in Health Institutions of Haramaya University, Eastern Ethiopia: A Time to Question our Perception
Authors: Berhanu Hundera Mulu , Dessie Yadeta , Majoor Herma , Gashaw Tigist
Published: November 2024

Making contextual gender analysis helps to design strong evidence-based institutional strategies for reversing stereotypes that are embedded in the organizational culture. Hence, an institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 401 participants to assess gender equality and workplace harassment among staff members of Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, and Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Eastern Ethiopia from November 1 to 30, 2021. Data were collected through a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. We measured gender equality perception by indicators as a latent variable. To identify predictors of gender equality, a structural equation model fit and a coefficient of regression with 95% CI were used to report the association. Of the total participants, more than 85.5% were female, 36.7% had a bachelor’s degree, and about 56.6% were administrative staff. Only 0.5% had a managerial role. The perception of gender equality was predicted positively by political (β = .21, 95% CI: [0.10, 0.31]), institutional (β = .32, 95% CI: [0.09, 0.55]), and sociocultural (β = .18, 95% CI: [0.11, 0.26]) factors. The proportion of workplace harassment in one form of violence ranged from 15.2% to 39%. Preferring dialog to get a solution (9.7%) and the unavailability of a gender office at the hospital (7.5%) were the main reasons for not reporting acts of violence. The findings of this study fortify gender inequality in the health and medical institute of Haramaya university but these disparities were not reported by the participants. A decent workplace, free from harassment and discrimination, has to be set up by implementing the existing gender policies and by designing contextualized strategies.
Leveraging large-scale multi-omics evidences to identify therapeutic targets from genome-wide association studies
Authors: Lessard Samuel , Chao Michael , Reis Kadri ,   FinnGen,   Estonian Biobank Research Team, Beauvais Mathieu , Rajpal Deepak K. , Sloane Jennifer , Palta Priit , Klinger Katherine , de Rinaldis Emanuele , Shameer Khader , Chatelain Clément
Published: November 2024

Background

Therapeutic targets supported by genetic evidence from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) show higher probability of success in clinical trials. GWAS is a powerful approach to identify links between genetic variants and phenotypic variation; however, identifying the genes driving associations identified in GWAS remains challenging. Integration of molecular quantitative trait loci (molQTL) such as expression QTL (eQTL) using mendelian randomization (MR) and colocalization analyses can help with the identification of causal genes. Careful interpretation remains warranted because eQTL can affect the expression of multiple genes within the same locus.

Methods

We used a combination of genomic features that include variant annotation, activity-by-contact maps, MR, and colocalization with molQTL to prioritize causal genes across 4,611 disease GWAS and meta-analyses from biobank studies, namely FinnGen, Estonian Biobank and UK Biobank.

Results

Genes identified using this approach are enriched for gold standard causal genes and capture known biological links between disease genetics and biology. In addition, we find that eQTL colocalizing with GWAS are statistically enriched for corresponding disease-relevant tissues. We show that predicted directionality from MR is generally consistent with matched drug mechanism of actions (> 85% for approved drugs). Compared to the nearest gene mapping method, genes supported by multi-omics evidences displayed higher enrichment in approved therapeutic targets (risk ratio 1.75 vs. 2.58 for genes with the highest level of support). Finally, using this approach, we detected anassociation between the IL6 receptor signal transduction gene IL6ST and polymyalgia rheumatica, an indication for which sarilumab, a monoclonal antibody against IL-6, has been recently approved.

Conclusions

Combining variant annotation, activity-by-contact maps, and molQTL increases performance to identify causal genes, while informing on directionality which can be translated to successful target identification and drug development.
New genomic resources inform transcriptomic responses to heavy metal toxins in the common Eastern bumble bee Bombus impatiens
Authors: Toth Amy L. , Wyatt Christopher D. R. , Masonbrink Rick E. , Geist Katherine S. , Fortune Ryan , Scott Sarah B. , Favreau Emeline , Rehan Sandra M. , Sumner Seirian , Gardiner Mary M. , Sivakoff Frances S.
Published: November 2024

Background

The common Eastern bumble bee Bombus impatiens is native to North America and is the main commercially reared pollinator in the Americas. There has been extensive research on this species related to its social biology, applied pollination, and genetics. The genome of this species was previously sequenced using short-read technology, but recent technological advances provide an opportunity for substantial improvements. This species is common in agricultural and urban environments, and heavy metal contaminants produced by industrial processes can negatively impact it. To begin to identify possible mechanisms underlying responses to these toxins, we used RNA-sequencing to examine how exposure to a cocktail of four heavy metals at field-realistic levels from industrial areas affected B. impatiens worker gene expression.

Results

PacBio long-read sequencing resulted in 544x coverage of the genome, and HiC technology was used to map chromatin contacts. Using Juicer and manual curation, the genome was scaffolded into 18 main pseudomolecules, representing a high quality, chromosome-level assembly. The sequenced genome size is 266.6 Mb and BRAKER3 annotation produced 13,938 annotated genes. The genome and annotation show high completeness, with ≥ 96% of conserved Eukaryota and Hymenoptera genes present in both the assembly and annotated genes. RNA sequencing of heavy metal exposed workers revealed 603 brain and 34 fat body differentially expressed genes. In the brain, differentially expressed genes had biological functions related to chaperone activity and protein folding.

Conclusions

Our data represent a large improvement in genomic resources for this important model species—with 10% more genome coverage than previously available, and a high-quality assembly into 18 chromosomes, the expected karyotype for this species. The new gene annotation added 777 new genes. Altered gene expression in response to heavy metal exposure suggests a possible mechanism for how these urban toxins are negatively impacting bee health, specifically by altering protein folding in the brain. Overall, these data are useful as a general high quality genomic resource for this species, and provide insight into mechanisms underlying tissue-specific toxicological responses of bumble bees to heavy metals.
Age of tobacco, nicotine and cannabis use initiation in Switzerland: a sequence analysis among adolescents and young adults
Authors: Fernandes Diana , Chok Lorraine , Cros Jérémy , Lebon Luc , Zurcher Karin , Dubuis Alexandre , Berthouzoz Cathy , Berchtold André , Barrense-Dias Yara
Published: November 2024

Background

To explore at what age youth start using tobacco and/or nicotine products, which product is used first, product initiation sequences, and whether some socio-demographic characteristics are associated with substance use initiation.

Methods

Data were collected from an online questionnaire disseminated through social media and professional partners, targeting youth aged 14–25 in French-speaking Switzerland in August 2022. The final sample included 1362 participants. Respondents were asked whether they had already used cigarettes, e-cigarettes, hookah, snus, or cannabis at least once in their life (yes/no) and the age of the first time was asked for each substance when the answer was positive. Additionally, participants were asked about their substance use in the past 30 days. Respondents were classified according to age at onset of each tobacco/nicotine and cannabis product, and comparisons were made based on sociodemographic variables, including gender (cisgender female/cisgender male/transgender), perceived socioeconomic status (below average/average/above average), and age.

Results

Overall, in addition to those who reported no consumption, four distinct initiation profiles emerged from the classification. Cigarettes remain the most commonly used first product with an average age of 15.7 years. While cigarettes and hookah are present in all profiles, the order of first consumption varies from one profile to another, with cigarettes coming first in two profiles, hookah in one and e-cigarettes in the last. Furthermore, while the most common profile contains experimental consumption of the five products considered, some profiles do not contain cannabis, e-cigarettes and/or snus, for example. When divided by age groups, both 14-17-year-olds and 18-21-year-olds reported cigarette as their first product of initiation. Across the separate age groups (14–17, 18–21, 22–25), cigarettes consistently emerge as the primary used on average.

Conclusions

Cigarettes remain the first product to be used, but the younger the respondents, the earlier they start using e-cigarettes, and very close to cigarettes. Regarding current consumption patterns, e-cigarettes are becoming increasingly prominent.
Assessing the effectiveness of advanced platelet rich fibrin in treating gingival recession: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Saleh Wafaa , Abdelhaleem Marwa , Elmeadawy Samah
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The literature lacks comprehensive evidence on the efficacy of advanced platelet rich fibrin(A-PRF) in treating gingival recession. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of A-PRF in the treatment of gingival recession.

Materials and methods

We adhered to the guidelines of PRISMA in searching the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus to include all the eligible studies according to the prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. We conducted our search up to February 28, 2024. We conducted a meta-analysis of the primary and secondary clinical outcomes to measure the changes from baseline to 6 months after surgery.

Results

Our review included 10 randomized clinical trials in which 146 participants with 457 recession defects were included. We found that combination of A-PRF with various surgical techniques, such as coronally advanced flap (CAF) connective tissue graft (CTG), VISTA, tunneling, and pinhole surgical technique, demonstrated promising outcomes but varied by comparison group. We observed that CTG with CAF showed a higher reduction in recession depth in comparison to A-PRF with CAF. This review indicated no statistical or clinical differences in recession width, width of keratinized gingiva, probing depth, and clinical attachment level between the study and control groups.

Conclusions

Due to the less invasive nature of A-PRF, it provides a better clinical option to improve the outcomes of treating gingival recession. However, more well-designed RCTs with standardized approaches are needed to confirm these results.
Automated pipeline for linear and volumetric assessment of facial swelling after third molar surgery
Authors: Barone Selene , Zaffino Paolo , Salviati Marianna , Destito Michela , Antonelli Alessandro , Bennardo Francesco , Cevidanes Lucia , Spadea Maria Francesca , Giudice Amerigo
Published: November 2024

Background

Extraction of mandibular third molars (M3Ms) is a routine procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery, often associated with postoperative symptoms like pain, facial swelling, and trismus. This study aimed to introduce a standardized and automated protocol for swelling analysis following M3M surgery, presenting results regarding clinical conditions immediately and one-week after surgery.

Methods

In a prospective study, 35 patients were enrolled (mean age: 24.4 ± 5.8 years) for removal of 54 M3Ms. Facial swelling was evaluated through 3D facial scans before surgery (T0), at three days (T1), and seven days (T2) post-surgery. The open-source software 3DSlicer facilitated automated analysis, including data anonymization, orientation, surface registration, qualitative comparisons, linear measurements, and volumetric quantification. Pairwise superimposition of facial models enabled qualitative, vectorial, and quantitative assessments, comparing initial conditions with swelling development at T1 and T2. Additionally, changes between T1 and T2 were also evaluated. Secondary outcomes encompassed clinical evaluations of pain, trismus (maximum mouth opening), and surgery time. Statistical analysis involved the paired Student t-test to assess longitudinal changes and analysis of variance to evaluate outcome variables concerning difficulty scores. Linear regression models correlated primary outcome variables with secondary study variables (α < 0.05).

Results

Longitudinal analysis demonstrated significant but variable facial swelling, pain, and trismus at T1, followed by improvement at T2 (p < 0.001). Linear and volumetric differences correlated positively with surgery time (p < 0.05). A direct proportionality between linear and volume differences was observed, higher values at T1 correlated with higher values at T2 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

An innovative digital workflow for precise quantification of postoperative facial changes was implemented, incorporating volumetric measurements that surpass linear assessments. Clinical conditions demonstrated a direct correlation with surgery time, deteriorating immediately and improving one-week after surgery.
Validation of the Hungarian version of the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) in clinical and general populations
Authors: Oszlánszky Judit , Mensch Károly , Hermann Péter , Zrubka Zsombor
Published: November 2024

Background

COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments) provides a framework for selecting and validating patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs). This study aims to validate the Hungarian version of the GOHAI and, for the first time, to assess its Standard Error of Measurement (SEM), Smallest Detectable Change (SDC), and Measurement Invariance (MI) across general and clinical populations as well as different age groups, following COSMIN guidelines.

Materials and methods

The translation was performed using a forward-backward process. A mixed sample (n = 306) was recruited in Budapest from May 2023 to February 2024, consisting of the general population (45.1%), recruited from health kiosks and a nursing home, and the clinical population (54.9%), sourced from Semmelweis University’s care units. The sample was further divided into two age groups: 18–64 years old (54.9%) and 65 + years old (45.1%). GOHAI was administered twice to 108 stable participants. For both the additive score (ADD-GOHAI) and simple count (SC-GOHAI), structural validity and measurement invariance by subgroups were assessed via Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha, and test-retest reliability was measured using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). SEM was calculated using the SEM agreement formula, and SDC using: $$\:SDC=1.96*\sqrt{2}*SEM$$. Convergent and known-group validity were tested against predefined hypotheses for structural validity.

Results

Contrary to a three factor model, a single-factor model showed good fit in all subgroups for both scoring methods, with adequate internal consistency (Cronbach 𝛼: 0.76–0.85). Four of the six hypotheses for convergent validity and all ten hypotheses for known-groups validity supported the predefined criteria. Measurement invariance between clinical and general populations, or by age, was not demonstrated, so GOHAI’s different measurement properties should be considered when comparing subpopulations. Test-retest reliability was adequate (ICC: 0.87–0.96). SDC was ≈5 points using ADD-GOHAI and 2–3 points using SC-GOHAI.

Conclusion

The Hungarian version of GOHAI demonstrates satisfactory psychometric properties across both general and clinical populations, as well as among both younger and older age groups. While the measurement properties of SC-GOHAI may be more stable between populations, ADD-GOHAI seems more suitable for individual follow-up. However, observed changes must be considered in relation to the measurement error associated with GOHAI.
Paramedic perceptions of decision-making when managing mental health-related presentations: a qualitative study
Authors: Emond Kate , Mnatzaganian George , Savic Michael , Lubman Dan I. , Bish Melanie
Published: November 2024

Background

Mental health presentations account for a considerable proportion of paramedic workload; however, the decision-making involved in managing these cases is poorly understood. This study aimed to explore how paramedics perceive their clinical decision-making when managing mental health presentations.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study design was employed. Overall, 73 paramedics participated in semi structured interviews, and data were analyzed from transcribed interviews in NVivo.

Results

Four themes emerged that reflected participants’ perceptions: the assessment process, experience, the use of documents and standard procedures, and consultation with other healthcare providers. There were conflicting perceptions about the clinical decision-making process, with perception of role having a potential impact. The dual process theory of clinical decision-making, which includes both analytical and intuitive approaches, was evident in the decision-making process.

Conclusion

Incorporating dual process theory into education and training, which highlights the strengths and weaknesses of analytical and intuitive decision-making, may reduce clinical errors made by cognitive bias. To further support clinical decision-making, additional education and training are warranted to promote critical thinking and clarify the scope of practice and roles when attending to mental health-related presentations.
The relation between resident-related factors and care problems in nursing homes: a multi-level analysis
Authors: Bouchmal Suleyman , Goërtz Yvonne M. J. , Hacking Coen , Winkens Bjorn , Aarts Sil
Published: November 2024

Background

Care problems such as decubitus and fall incidents are prevalent in nursing homes. Yet, research regarding explanatory factors on these care problems is scarce. The aim of this study is twofold: (1) to identify the degree to which a diverse set of resident-related factors (e.g., care dependency levels) are associated with the sum of six care problems (pressure ulcers, incontinence, malnutrition, falls, freedom restriction, and pain), and (2) to investigate which resident-related factors are associated with each of these six care problems individually.

Methods

Data were collected (2016–2023) using the International Prevalence Measurements of Care Quality (LPZ). Factors such as age, number of diagnoses, and length of stay were included. While respecting nested data within eight organizations, the associations between thirteen resident-related factors and the six care problems were determined using multilevel analyses.

Results

A total of 3043 residents were included (mean age 81.9; SD: 10.5). The most prevalent care problem was incontinence (n = 1834; 60.3%). Nurse proxy-rated confusion (r = 0.227; p < 0.001) and aggression (r = 0.285; p = 0.001) were associated strongest with the sum of the six care problems; and higher after correcting for the residents’ care dependency levels (respectively r = 0.504; 0.584 — both p < 0.001). Pre-admission risk assessments for pressure ulcers (OR 7.03), malnutrition (OR 3.57), and falls (OR 3.93) were strongest associated with individual care problems such as pressure ulcers, and falls.

Conclusions

This study shows the association between several resident-related factors and care problems such as gender, years since admission, and care dependency level. Factors such as proxy-rated aggression and confusion were strongest associated with the presence of care problems, while pre-admission risk assessments were strongest associated with several individual care problems. The findings underscore the importance of prioritizing early pre-assessments, as they empower care professionals to take into account resident-specific factors and their influence on the emergence of care problems.
Long-term survival of asexual Zymoseptoria tritici spores in the environment
Authors: Kay William T. , O’Neill Paul , Gurr Sarah J. , Fones Helen N.
Published: November 2024

Background

The fungal phytopathogen Zymoseptoria tritici, causal agent of the economically damaging Septoria tritici blotch of wheat, is different from most foliar fungal pathogens in that its germination occurs slowly and apparently randomly after arrival on the leaf surface and is followed by a potentially prolonged period of epiphytic growth and even reproduction, during which no feeding structures are formed by the fungus. Thus, understanding the cues for germination and the mechanisms that underpin survival in low-nutrient environments could provide key new avenues for disease control.

Results

In this work, we examine survival, culturability and virulence of spores following transfer from a high nutrient environment to water. We find that a sub-population of Z. tritici spores can survive and remain virulent for at least 7 weeks in water alone, during which time multicellular structures split to single cells. The fungus relies heavily on stored lipids; however, if cell suspensions in water are dried, the cells survive without lipid utilisation. Changes in gene expression in the first hours after suspension in water reflect adaptation to stress, while longer term starvation (7 days) induces changes particularly in primary metabolism and cytochrome P450 (CYP) gene expression. Importantly, we also found that Z. tritici spores are equally or better able to survive in soil as in water, and that rain-splash occurring 49 days after soil inoculation can transfer cells to wheat seedlings growing in inoculated soil and cause Septoria leaf blotch disease.

Conclusions

Z. tritici blastospores can survive in water or soil for long periods, potentially spanning the intercrop period for UK winter wheat. They rely on internal lipid stores, with no external nutrition, and although a large proportion of spores do not survive for such an extended period, those that do remain as virulent as spores grown on rich media. Thus, Z. tritici has exceptional survival strategies, which are likely to be important in understanding its population genetics and in developing novel routes for Septoria leaf blotch control.
Intestinal fatty acid binding protein is associated with coronary artery disease in long-term type 1 diabetes—the Dialong study
Authors: Narum Marte , Seljeflot Ingebjørg , Bratseth Vibeke , Berg Tore Julsrud , Sveen Kari Anne
Published: November 2024

Background

Individuals with type 1 diabetes are at increased risk of accelerated atherosclerosis, causing coronary artery disease (CAD). The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, but new theories proposed are damage of gut mucosa causing leakage and translocation of gut microbiota products into the circulation, leading to inflammatory responses and atherosclerosis. We therefore aimed to study the associations between gut related inflammatory biomarkers and coronary atherosclerosis in individuals with long-term type 1 diabetes.

Methods

In this cross-sectional, controlled study of 102 participants with type 1 diabetes and 63 control subjects, we measured circulating levels of intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP), soluble cluster of differentiation 14 (sCD14), lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) and interleukin 18 (IL-18) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and further gene expression of CD14 and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) by real time PCR in circulating leukocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The participants had either established coronary heart disease (CHD) or underwent computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) to assess for coronary atherosclerosis, including total, calcified and soft/mixed plaque volumes.

Results

In the diabetes group, the levels of I-FABP were significantly higher in participants with established CHD or significant stenosis on CTCA compared to the participants with normal arteries or non-significant stenosis, with median 1.67 ng/ml (interquartile range [IQR] 1.02–2.32) vs. median 1.09 ng/ml (IQR 0.82–1.58), p = 0.003. I-FABP was associated with significant coronary artery stenosis by CTCA (> 50%) or previously established CHD in the adjusted analysis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09–4.95; p = 0.029). The levels of I-FABP correlated also to total coronary plaque volume (r = 0.22, p < 0.05). This association remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, persistent albuminuria, eGFR, statin treatment, diabetes duration and mean time-weighted variables; HbA1c, LDL-cholesterol and systolic blood pressure (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.28–3.01; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

In this cohort of individuals with long-term type 1 diabetes I-FABP associated significantly with coronary artery stenosis, suggesting a potential role of gut mucosa damage in the process of atherosclerosis in type 1 diabetes.
Arthrospira maxima and biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles as antibacterials against carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii: a review article
Authors: Selim Mohamed I. , El‑banna Tarek , Sonbol Fatma , Elekhnawy Engy
Published: November 2024

Carbapenem resistance among bacteria, especially Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, constitutes a dreadful threat to public health all over the world that requires developing new medications urgently. Carbapenem resistance emerges as a serious problem as this class is used as a last-line option to clear the multidrug-resistant bacteria. Arthrospira maxima (Spirulina) is a well-known cyanobacterium used as a food supplement as it is rich in protein, essential minerals and vitamins and previous studies showed it may have some antimicrobial activity against different organisms. Biosynthesized (green) zinc oxide nanoparticles have been investigated by several researchers as antibacterials because of their safety in health. In this article, previous studies were analyzed to get to a conclusion about their activity as antibacterials.
“They pulled that funding away and we’re not recovering. it’s getting worse”: deaths of despair in post-austerity north east England
Authors: Price Timothy
Published: November 2024

Background

Deaths related to suicide, drug misuse, and alcohol-specific causes, known collectively as “deaths of despair” are of growing interest to researchers in England. Rates of death from these causes are highest in deprived northern communities and are closely tied to the social determinants of health and the policy decisions that have shaped them. The aim of this paper is to explore how stakeholders and community members living in Middlesbrough and South Tyneside, two Northern towns with above average rates of deaths of despair, understood the relationship between austerity policies and rates of deaths from these causes in their areas.

Methods

I conducted interviews and one focus group with a total of 54 stakeholders and community members in Middlesbrough and South Tyneside. Data were analysed using the iterative categorisation technique and the findings were interpreted through thematic analysis.

Results

The findings highlight four primary ways through which austerity exacerbated rates of deaths of despair in Middlesbrough and South Tyneside: reduced access to mental health services, diminished substance abuse treatment capacity, loss of youth services, and the closure of community institutions. Participants linked these cuts to rising social isolation, declining mental health, and increased substance misuse, which collectively deepened geographic inequalities in deaths of despair.

Conclusions

This study underscores the urgent need for reinvestment in local services to reduce inequalities and prevent further unnecessary deaths due to drug, suicide, and alcohol-specific causes. Prioritising the restoration and enhancement of services lost to austerity is critical. Such reinvestment will not only help to alleviate some of the most immediate need but also form a foundation for addressing the wider structural inequalities that perpetuate deaths of despair.
Prevalence of depressive symptoms among children and adolescents in china: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Jia , Liu Yiang , Ma Jingyao , Feng Zizhao , Hu Jie , Hu Jia , Dong Bin
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression is a significant health concern among children and adolescents. Previous epidemiological studies on depressive symptoms in this population have yielded inconsistent findings. This study aims to systematically estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms among Chinese children and adolescents.

Method

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in both English (PubMed, EMBASE) and Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WANFANG) databases from their inception until October 15, 2024. This meta-analysis employed a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms.

Results

A total of 439 eligible studies, comprising 1,497,524 participants, were included in the analysis. The pooled point prevalence of depressive symptoms among children and adolescents was found to be 26.17% (95% CI 25.00–27.41%), with significant heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 100%, p < 0.001). The most commonly used scales were the SDS and CES-D; the SDS reported a higher prevalence (28.80%, 95% CI 26.88–30.85%) compared to the CES-D (24.50%, 95% CI 22.49–26.68%). There was no clear temporal trend in the prevalence of depressive symptoms over time (r = 0.03, P = 0.74). The highest pooled prevalence was observed in high school students (28.23%, 95% CI 25.58–31.15%), followed by undergraduate students (27.72%, 95% CI 25.79–29.79%) and middle school students (24.15%, 95% CI 21.61–27.00%). Among the provinces, Inner Mongolia exhibited the lowest prevalence (18.43%, 95% CI 11.98–28.36%), while Qinghai and Tibet had the highest rates at 54.19% and 47.50%, respectively, although only two and one study were included for these regions.

Conclusions

The detection rate of depressive symptoms in this study aligns closely with global rates for children and adolescents. High school students exhibit a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms compared to other age groups, highlighting the need for effective interventions targeted at this population. There was no clear temporal trend in the prevalence of depressive symptoms. Additionally, the choice of measurement tool is a critical aspect of epidemiological research; standardizing these measurements is essential for enhancing data comparability across studies.

Trial Registration International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: No. CRD42023455604.
Synthesis of aluminum oxide nanoparticles using seeds of Carica papaya and evaluation of it for antimicrobial, antioxidant, and photocatalysis activity
Authors: Laskar Indrani , Saha Rajib
Published: November 2024

The present work is aimed at the synthesis of aluminum oxide nanoparticles (AlONPs) using the seed extract of Carica papaya. The aluminum oxide nanoparticles were evaluated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometer, and zeta potential, respectively. This work also determines the antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the seed extract AlONPs against pathogens such as Bacillus cereus (B. cereus), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Salmonella enterica (S. enterica) for antibacterial and Aspergillus niger (A. niger) for antifungal. The as-synthesized AlONPs were used for the degradation of EY dye in the presence of visible light. The presence of an absorption peak at a wavelength of 272 nm in the synthesized nanoparticles was detected by UV–Vis spectroscopy analysis. The results of the FTIR study confirmed the existence of various chemicals and functional groups in the 500–4000 cm−1 range. EDX results revealed that it included 68% aluminum and 22% oxygen established the high purity of the AlONPs. The average crystallite size of the synthesized AlONPs was found to be 52 nm by XRD analysis. Using DPPH activity, the synthesized AlONPs showed incredible antioxidant properties of 72.42% inhibition at the maximum concentration of 100 µg/ml. Moreover, it was found that the AlONPs significant antibacterial activity against tested strains viz. B. cereus (20 mm) and also showed antifungal efficacy against A. niger (30 mm) at higher concentrations of AlONPs. The photocatalytic degradation of the dye through the utilization of the synthesized AlONPs was clearly evident through the observation of a shift in color of the Eosin Y dye, transitioning from a deep pink hue to a nearly colorless state after exposure to UV light for 300 min. The green synthesized AlONPs show high photocatalytic degradation of EY 91.41% after 300 min under visible light irradiation. The current investigation has demonstrated that the seed extract of Carica papaya serves as a significant resource for the synthesis of AlONPs through a biological, eco-friendly, and non-toxic approach, while also possessing antibacterial, antioxidant, and photocatalytic properties.
Navigating the complexity of Wilms tumors in pediatrics: diagnostic challenges for better treatment
Authors: Morini Mariana Andozia , da Cunha Isabela Werneck
Published: November 2024

Most pediatric kidney tumors clinically present as an abdominal mass, typically detected by the child’s caregivers and later confirmed through imaging tests. Malignant renal cancers account for approximately 5% of childhood kidney neoplasms, with Wilms tumors (WT) being the most common diagnosis in this category (90% of cases).

Patients are treated according to two main protocols: the American protocol of the Children’s Oncology Group (COG) or the protocol from the Société Internationale d’Oncologie Pédiatrique (SIOP), which differ in terms of the timing of surgery (before or after chemotherapy).

Grossly, pediatric kidney tumors are neoplasms that can vary significantly in size. After a correct histological diagnosis, the child will be treated according to the guidelines for that specific neoplasm. Therefore, the accurate diagnosis of the histological subtype is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment that can improve survival rates in children. Consequently, it is extremely important to recognize neoplasms that require differentiation from WT.
From prevention to management: exploring AI’s role in metabolic syndrome management: a comprehensive review
Authors: Choubey Udit , Upadrasta Vashishta Avadhani , Kaur Inder P. , Banker Himanshi , Kanagala Sai Gautham , Anamika F. N. U. , Virmani Mini , Jain Rohit
Published: November 2024

Background

This review aims to comprehensively explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is characterized by a cluster of conditions, posing a growing public health threat globally. Recognizing the limitations of traditional management approaches, we emphasize the potential of AI in transforming the management of MetS, focusing on recent advancements and applications in risk prediction and diagnosis.

Body and conclusion.

The integration of artificial intelligence in medicine is expanding, particularly in managing MetS, involving conditions like hypertension and dyslipidemia. Diagnosis and treatment challenges stem from addressing multiple conditions simultaneously. AI tools prove essential in monitoring indices such as blood pressure and glucose, and identifying trends for treatment adjustments. Lifestyle modifications are crucial, and AI can facilitate these changes through user-friendly interfaces and positive reinforcement. Standardization and successful implementation of AI tools in medical practices are necessary for revolutionizing MetS management, requiring focused future research efforts.
Integration of PSPU-Net gravity inversion neural network with gravity data for enhanced 3D basement relief estimation
Authors: Liu X. , Geng M. , Sun J. , Ali M. Y. , Abughazal S. , Lin K.
Published: November 2024

Estimating the sediment-basement interface is critical to understanding basin evolution and its applications in energy, water resources, and seismic risk management. We develop a PSPU-Net gravity inversion (GI) network, a deep-learning approach combining the Pyramid Scene Parsing Network and U-Net, for gravity data to recover the sediment-basement interface. Training and validation involve smoothed basement models generated from random rectangles followed by filtering. We also incorporate uplifted basements and intrusions to enhance performance in complex geologic contexts. Numerical results for synthetic models determine PSPU-Net GI’s effective recovery of sediment-basement interface relief. To improve field data predictions, we implement transfer learning and normalization strategies. Transfer learning constructs a small number of additional basement models based on site-specific prior information and fine-tunes the neural network trained on the original general models. The normalization strategy provides a convenient way of harnessing depth information from seismic data and wells. We apply our framework to the gravity data from the western margin of the Pannonian Basin (Austria). The predictions from three implementations, baseline PSPU-Net GI, PSPU-Net GI + transfer learning, and PSPU-Net GI + normalization, successfully characterize the basement relief and are consistent with the results in previous publications. Compared with the prediction from the baseline PSPU-Net GI, the prediction accuracies obtained from the PSPU-Net GI implementations with the additional transfer learning and normalization components are notably improved.
Cantor, Choice, and Paradox
Authors: DiBella Nicholas
Published: November 2024

This article proposes a revision of Cantor’s account of set size that understands comparisons of set size fundamentally in terms of surjections rather than injections. This revised account is equivalent to Cantor’s account if the axiom of choice is true, but its consequences differ from those of Cantor’s if the axiom of choice is false. This article argues that the revised account is an intuitive generalization of Cantor’s account, blocks paradoxes—most notably, that a set can be partitioned into a set that is bigger than it—that can arise from Cantor’s account if the axiom of choice is false, illuminates the debate over whether the axiom of choice is true, is a mathematically fruitful alternative to Cantor’s account, and sheds philosophical light on one of the oldest unsolved problems in set theory.
Differential eco-physiological performance of eight Eucalyptus species grown in Tunisian’s arid regions
Authors: Chemlali Imen , Ennajeh Mustapha , Abid Cyrine , Aydi Samir , Messoudi Noomen , Romdhane Chokri Ben , Elfalleh Walid , Saadaoui Ezzeddine
Published: November 2024

Successful production of Eucalyptus in drylands requires a thorough understanding of the mechanisms involved in their tolerance to abiotic stress as well as drought. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of dry conditions on morpho-physiological characteristics of eight 5-year-old Eucalyptus species trees, Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehn., Eucalyptus gomphocephala DC., Eucalyptus torquata Luehm., Eucalyptus microtheca F.Muell., Eucalyptus occidentalis Endl., Eucalyptus diversifolia Bonpl., Eucalyptus sargentii Maiden., and Eucalyptus torwood (Spontaneous hybrid), grew in the same arid microhabitat (a plot) characterized by poor soil. The experiments were conducted in summer 2022, a year that was characterized by a low rainfall rate. Thus, at regular intervals, several parameters were assessed. Plant water status, leaf water relations, gas exchanges, and chlorophyll fluorescence in relation to trees growth performance and leaf traits. Results revealed a distinct resistance level to aridity for the studied species, trees were able to grow showing a clear inter-specific variability. Regarding all species, E. camaldulensis, exhibited a particular behavior to preserve their internal functionality. It displayed simultaneously a rapid growth performance with an ability to develop thinner leaves and earlier stomatal closure under water deficit. Although, E. microtheca, E. gomphocephala, and E. diversifolia’ growth were low, but trees attempted to maintain a stable inter-dependence functions for survival. For E. occidentalis, E. torquata, E. sargentii, and E. torwood, we suggest that a physiological acclimation took place under severe conditions, they showed convergence responses for many parameters. Their ability to maintain good leaves’ succulence and thickness is clearly attributed to a significant RWC (71.5% to 82.4%) related to important LTD, LDMC, and SLW, enabling trees to have important stomata conductance and maintain respectful growth performance. Overall, this comparative study of multiple Eucalyptus species revealed significant variability in their functional and adaptive responses to water deficiency and dry weather conditions, which aids in selecting species that are more appropriate to arid natural environments.
Διερεύνηση της συσχέτισης της βακτηριδιακής υπερανάπτυξης του λεπτού εντέρου με την υπερδυναμική κυκλοφορία, την καρδιακή λειτουργία, τη νεφρική λειτουργία και την κλινική έκβαση σε ασθενείς με κίρρωση του ήπατος
Authors: Αλεξίου Όλγα
Published: November 2024

Το «μικροβίωμα» του εντέρου έχει αποδειχθεί ότι έχει ευεργετικές επιδράσεις για τον οργανισμό ενώ αποτελεί και έναν σημαντικό παράγοντα για την διατήρηση της ακεραιότητάς του και την ομαλή λειτουργία του. Διατάραξη κάποιων από τους αμυντικούς μηχανισμούς μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε βακτηριδιακή υπερανάπτυξη του λεπτού εντέρου (ΒΥΛΕ). Συγκεκριμένα, παρατηρείται μία επέκταση των βακτηρίων που φυσιολογικά βρίσκονται στο κόλον σε όλο το λεπτό έντερο. Οποιαδήποτε διαταραχή στον πληθυσμό ή τη σύνθεση των μικροοργανισμών στον λεπτό έντερο μπορεί να προκαλέσει σοβαρές συνέπειες για την υγεία. Η συσχέτιση ανάμεσα στην κίρρωση και την ΒΥΛΕ έχει σημειωθεί εδώ και έτη και ένα κοινό χαρακτηριστικό όλων των ασθενών με κίρρωση είναι η αύξηση των δυνητικά παθογόνων βακτηρίων η οποία συνοδεύεται από την μειωμένη εμφάνιση των ωφέλιμων βακτηρίων. Ο σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι να διερευνηθεί ο επιπολασμός της ΒΥΛΕ σε κιρρωτικούς ασθενείς και η συσχέτισή της με την υπερδυναμική κυκλοφορία, την καρδιακή και νεφρική λειτουργία, τη βαρύτητα της νόσου, την εμφάνιση λοιμώξεων, τη ρήξη αντιρρόπησης (ασκίτης, ηπατονεφρικό σύνδρομο, αυτόματη βακτηριακή περιοτονίτιδα, κιρσορραγία, εγκεφαλοπάθεια) και τη θνητότητα. Για την επίτευξη του στόχου, μελετήθηκαν ασθενείς με κίρρωση του ήπατος και ιστορικό ασκίτη οι οποίοι παρακολουθούνται από τα εξωτερικά ηπατολογικά ιατρεία του Πανεπιστημιακού Νοσοκομείου Ιωαννίνων. Το χρονικό διάστημα λήψης δείγματος ήταν από το Μάιο του 2017 έως και το Μάιο του 2021. Για τη συμμετοχή των ασθενών στη μελέτη, οι ασθενείς έπρεπε να έχουν διαγνωσθεί με κίρρωση ήπατος οποιαδήποτε αιτιολογίας, να ανήκουν στο ηλικιακό εύρος 18 έως 75 ετών, να εμφανίζουν ασκίτη σταδίου ΙΙ/ΙΙΙ. Όλοι οι ασθενείς υποβάλλονταν σε εργαστηριακές εξετάσεις, όπου περιελάμβαναν έναν πλήρη αιματολογικό, βιοχημικό και νεφρικό έλεγχο αλλά καθοριζόταν και το προφίλ πήξης του αίματος. Η δοκιμασία αναπνοής υδρογόνου με λακτουλόζη είναι η διαδικασία η οποία χρησιμοποιήθηκε για τη διάγνωση της ΒΥΛΕ στους ασθενείς. Τα αποτελέσματα της μελέτης έδειξαν ότι η παρουσία της ΒΥΛΕ σε ασθενείς με κίρρωση και ασκίτη συσχετίστηκε ισχυρά με μεγαλύτερη συστηματική φλεγμονή και ότι η ύπαρξη της ΒΥΛΕ σε ασθενείς με κίρρωση και ασκίτη οδηγεί σε προδιάθεση για χειρότερη κυκλοφορική και νεφρική λειτουργία. Η ΒΥΛΕ σε ασθενείς με κίρρωση και ασκίτη μπορεί να συμβάλει σε ενισχυμένη συστηματική φλεγμονώδη δραστηριότητα, χειρότερη συστηματική αιμοδυναμική κατάσταση και νεφρική λειτουργία. Επίσης, αξίζει να σημειωθεί ότι τα τεστ αναπνοής υδατανθράκων συνιστώνται ως έρευνα πρώτης γραμμής, καθώς είναι βολικά, μη επεμβατικά και οικονομικά και υπερτερούν από άλλες επεμβατικές μεθόδους. Συμπερασματικά, παρατηρήθηκε ότι υπάρχει υψηλή συσχέτιση στην πορεία της υγείας των ασθενών με ασκίτη και ΒΥΛΕ και ότι οι συνέπειες αυτές θα πρέπει να λαμβάνονται υπόψη και να μελετηθούν περαιτέρω σε επόμενες μελέτες.