bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotyping and phenotyping strategies for genetic improvement of meat quality and carcass composition in swine
Authors: Lozada-Soto Emmanuel André , Lourenco Daniela , Maltecca Christian , Fix Justin , Schwab Clint , Shull Caleb , Tiezzi Francesco
Published: June 2022

Background

Meat quality and composition traits have become valuable in modern pork production; however, genetic improvement has been slow due to high phenotyping costs. Combining genomic information with multi-trait indirect selection based on cheaper indicator traits is an alternative for continued cost-effective genetic improvement.

Methods

Data from an ongoing breeding program were used in this study. Phenotypic and genomic information was collected on three-way crossbred and purebred Duroc animals belonging to 28 half-sib families. We applied different methods to assess the value of using purebred and crossbred information (both genomic and phenotypic) to predict expensive-to-record traits measured on crossbred individuals. Estimation of multi-trait variance components set the basis for comparing the different scenarios, together with a fourfold cross-validation approach to validate the phenotyping schemes under four genotyping strategies.

Results

The benefit of including genomic information for multi-trait prediction depended on the breeding goal trait, the indicator traits included, and the source of genomic information. While some traits benefitted significantly from genotyping crossbreds (e.g., loin intramuscular fat content, backfat depth, and belly weight), multi-trait prediction was advantageous for some traits even in the absence of genomic information (e.g., loin muscle weight, subjective color, and subjective firmness).

Conclusions

Our results show the value of using different sources of phenotypic and genomic information. For most of the traits studied, including crossbred genomic information was more beneficial than performing multi-trait prediction. Thus, we recommend including crossbred individuals in the reference population when these are phenotyped for the breeding objective.
An artificial intelligence-based risk prediction model of myocardial infarction
Authors: Liu Ran , Wang Miye , Zheng Tao , Zhang Rui , Li Nan , Chen Zhongxiu , Yan Hongmei , Shi Qingke
Published: June 2022

Background

Myocardial infarction can lead to malignant arrhythmia, heart failure, and sudden death. Clinical studies have shown that early identification of and timely intervention for acute MI can significantly reduce mortality. The traditional MI risk assessment models are subjective, and the data that go into them are difficult to obtain. Generally, the assessment is only conducted among high-risk patient groups.

Objective

To construct an artificial intelligence–based risk prediction model of myocardial infarction (MI) for continuous and active monitoring of inpatients, especially those in noncardiovascular departments, and early warning of MI.

Methods

The imbalanced data contain 59 features, which were constructed into a specific dataset through proportional division, upsampling, downsampling, easy ensemble, and w-easy ensemble. Then, the dataset was traversed using supervised machine learning, with recursive feature elimination as the top-layer algorithm and random forest, gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT), logistic regression, and support vector machine as the bottom-layer algorithms, to select the best model out of many through a variety of evaluation indices.

Results

GBDT was the best bottom-layer algorithm, and downsampling was the best dataset construction method. In the validation set, the F1 score and accuracy of the 24-feature downsampling GBDT model were both 0.84. In the test set, the F1 score and accuracy of the 24-feature downsampling GBDT model were both 0.83, and the area under the curve was 0.91.

Conclusion

Compared with traditional models, artificial intelligence–based machine learning models have better accuracy and real-time performance and can reduce the occurrence of in-hospital MI from a data-driven perspective, thereby increasing the cure rate of patients and improving their prognosis.
Evolutionary transitions in diet influence the exceptional diversification of a lizard adaptive radiation
Authors: Ocampo Mauricio , Pincheira-Donoso Daniel , Sayol Ferran , Rios Rodrigo S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Diet is a key component of a species ecological niche and plays critical roles in guiding the trajectories of evolutionary change. Previous studies suggest that dietary evolution can influence the rates and patterns of species diversification, with omnivorous (animal and plant, ‘generalist’) diets slowing down diversification compared to more restricted (‘specialist’) herbivorous and carnivorous diets. This hypothesis, here termed the “dietary macroevolutionary sink” hypothesis (DMS), predicts that transitions to omnivorous diets occur at higher rates than into any specialist diet, and omnivores are expected to have the lowest diversification rates, causing an evolutionary sink into a single type of diet. However, evidence for the DMS hypothesis remains conflicting. Here, we present the first test of the DMS hypothesis in a lineage of ectothermic tetrapods—the prolific Liolaemidae lizard radiation from South America.

Results

Ancestral reconstructions suggest that the stem ancestor was probably insectivorous. The best supported trait model is a diet-dependent speciation rate, with independent extinction rates. Herbivory has the highest net diversification rate, omnivory ranks second, and insectivory has the lowest. The extinction rate is the same for all three diet types and is much lower than the speciation rates. The highest transition rate was from omnivory to insectivory, and the lowest transition rates were between insectivory and herbivory.

Conclusions

Our findings challenge the core prediction of the DMS hypothesis that generalist diets represent an ‘evolutionary sink’. Interestingly, liolaemid lizards have rapidly and successfully proliferated across some of the world’s coldest climates (at high elevations and latitudes), where species have evolved mixed arthropod-plant (omnivore) or predominantly herbivore diets. This longstanding observation is consistent with the higher net diversification rates found in both herbivory and omnivory. Collectively, just like the evolution of viviparity has been regarded as a ‘key adaptation’ during the liolaemid radiation across cold climates, our findings suggest that transitions from insectivory to herbivory (bridged by omnivory) are likely to have played a role as an additional key adaptation underlying the exceptional diversification of these reptiles across extreme climates.
Serological and molecular characteristics of pathogenic Leptospira in rodent populations in Fujian Province, China, 2018–2020
Authors: Xu Guoying , Qiu Haiyan , Liu Weijun , Jiang Xiugao , Chang Yung-Fu , Wang Jiaxiong , Li Zhenpeng , Zhu Yongzhang , Zhang Cuicai , Xiao Fangzhen
Published: June 2022

Background

Leptospirosis is a significant emerging infectious disease worldwide. Rodents are considered to be the most critical hosts of Leptospira spp. Fujian Province is a region highly endemic for leptospirosis in China. However, the genetic diversity of leptospires circulating among rodents in Fujian is limited.

Results

The carrier status of rodents for Leptospira spp. was investigated by culture and serological detection in Fujian during 2018–2020. A total of 710 rodents, including 11 species, were trapped, with Rattus losea being the dominant trapped species (50.56%). Fourteen pathogenic Leptospira strains were obtained. Seven L. borgpetersenii serogroup Javanica strains belonging to ST143, 4 L. interrogans serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae strains belonging to ST1 and ST17, 2 L. interrogans serogroup Bataviae strains belonging to ST96 and ST333, and 1 L. interrogans serogroup Pyrogenes strains belonging to ST332 were identified using 16S rDNA gene sequencing, microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and Multilocus sequence typing (MLST). L. borgpetersenii serogroup Javanica belonging to ST143 was the dominant type (50.00%). A total of 387 rodent serum samples were tested by MAT. Serum were considered positive for seroreactivity at a titer ≥ 1:160 against at least one serovar. A total of 90 (23.26%) serum samples tested positive, and four serogroups were identified, with Javanica being the dominant serogroup (87.78%), which was similar to the dominant serogroup isolated from rodents. This study demonstrates a high prevalence of leptospirosis in rodents and public health education among high-risk workers is highly recommended.

Conclusions

R. losea was the dominant trapped rodent, and L. borgpetersenii serogroup Javanica ST143 was widely distributed among rodents in Fujian from 2018 to 2020. Despite the low number of isolates obtained from rodents, this study suggests that continuous epidemiological surveillance of the aetiological characteristics of pathogenic Leptospira in wild animal reservoirs may help reduce the possible risk of disease transmission.
Spontaneous left main coronary artery dissection occurred in a young male: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Li Yongjun , Yang Mingming , Chen Xi , Zhang Xiaoguo , Zhang Rui , Zuo Pengfei , Jiang Lei , Ma Genshan
Published: June 2022

Background

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is now recognized as an important cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), which is thought to be more prevalent in women. However, the male patients, on the other hand, cannot be easily ignored.

Case presentation

A 26-year-old male suffered from SCAD that occurred in the left main coronary artery (LMCA) and a secondary acute myocardial infraction (AMI). Coronary CT angiography and coronary angiography (CAG) revealed aneurysms in the LMCA and right coronary artery (RCA), as well as a total occlusion in the proximal branch of the left anterior descending artery (LAD). Along with drug therapy, coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery was recommended, and the patient has been symptom-free for one year.

Conclusion

We report a case of spontaneous left main coronary artery dissection that occurred in a young male. The necessity of identifying typical imaging features and following up patients with SCAD for life to reduce the risk of fatal cardiac complications cannot be overstated.
Satisfaction among non-conveyed patients and significant others when discharged at the scene by the ambulance service: an exploratory cross-sectional survey
Authors: Larsson Glenn , Dagerhem Alma , Wihlborg Jonas , Rantala Andreas
Published: June 2022

Background

The ambulance service is facing an increased number of calls and ambulance assignments. Between 12 and 42% of all assignments result in non-conveyance to the Accident and Emergency Department. However, there is limited knowledge regarding satisfaction among patients and significant others when patients are assessed as non-urgent and discharged at the scene. Therefore, the aim of the study was to explore and compare satisfaction with the ambulance service among patients and significant others when the patient was discharged at the scene.

Methods

The present study was designed as a cross-sectional exploratory survey with a consecutive sample employing the Consumer Emergency Care Satisfaction Scale questionnaire on patients and significant others.

Results

A total of 162 questionnaires were analysed, 87 patients and 75 significant others. Overall, satisfaction was high with no significant difference between patients and significant others, although 17-19% were dissatisfied with the discharge information.

Conclusions

Generally, patients and significant others are satisfied with the care provided by the Ambulance Service when discharged at the scene and thus not conveyed the Accident and Emergency Department. The participants were especially satisfied with Specialist Ambulance Nurses’ interpersonal skills, e.g., making time and providing thorough information. Guidelines for assignments involving non-conveyance, as well as information, instructions and what to expect when discharged at the scene can be improved.
Evaluation of a direct phage DNA detection-based Taqman qPCR methodology for quantification of phage and its application in rapid ultrasensitive identification of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Luo Jun , Liu Min , Wang Peng , Li Qianyuan , Luo Chunhua , Wei Hongping , Hu Yuanyuan , Yu Junping
Published: June 2022

Background

Rapid phage enumeration/quantitation and viable bacteria determination is critical for phage application and treatment of infectious patients caused by the pathogenic bacteria.

Methods

In the current study, a direct phage DNA detection-based Taqman qPCR methodology for quantification of phage P53 and rapid ultrasensitive identification of Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) was evaluated.

Results

The assay was capable of quantifying P53 phage DNA without DNA extraction and the detection limit of the assay was 550 PFU/mL. The agreement bias between the quantitative results of three different phage concentrations in this assay and double agar overlay plaque assay were under 3.38%. Through the built detection system, down to 1 log CFU/mL of viable A. baumannii can be detected within 4 h in A. baumannii spiked swab and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. Compared with the Taqman qPCR that targets the conserved sequence of A. baumannii, the sensitivity of the assay built in this study could increase four orders of magnitude.

Conclusions

The methodology offers a valid alternative for enumeration of freshly prepared phage solution and diagnosis of bacterial infection caused by A. baumannii or other bacterial infection in complicated samples through switching to phages against other bacteria. Furthermore, the assay could offer drug adjustment strategy timely owing to the detection of bacteria vitality.
Is treatment in certified cancer centers related to better survival in patients with pancreatic cancer? Evidence from a large German cohort study
Authors: Roessler Martin , Schmitt Jochen , Bobeth Christoph , Gerken Michael , Kleihues-van Tol Kees , Reissfelder Christoph , Rau Bettina M. , Distler Marius , Piso Pompiliu , Günster Christian , Klinkhammer-Schalke Monika , Schoffer Olaf , Bierbaum Veronika
Published: June 2022

Background

Treatment of cancer patients in certified cancer centers, that meet specific quality standards in term of structures and procedures of medical care, is a national treatment goal in Germany. However, convincing evidence that treatment in certified cancer centers is associated with better outcomes in patients with pancreatic cancer is still missing.

Methods

We used patient-specific information (demographic characteristics, diagnoses, treatments) from German statutory health insurance data covering the period 2009–2017 and hospital characteristics from the German Standardized Quality Reports. We investigated differences in survival between patients treated in hospitals with and without pancreatic cancer center certification by the German Cancer Society (GCS) using the Kaplan–Meier estimator and Cox regression with shared frailty.

Results

The final sample included 45,318 patients with pancreatic cancer treated in 1,051 hospitals (96 GCS-certified, 955 not GCS-certified). 5,426 (12.0%) of the patients were treated in GCS-certified pancreatic cancer centers. Patients treated in certified and non-certified hospitals had similar distributions of age, sex, and comorbidities. Median survival was 8.0 months in GCS-certified pancreatic cancer centers and 4.4 months in non-certified hospitals. Cox regression adjusting for multiple patient and hospital characteristics yielded a significantly lower hazard of long-term, all-cause mortality in patients treated in GCS-certified pancreatic centers (Hazard ratio = 0.89; 95%-CI = 0.85–0.93). This result remained robust in multiple sensitivity analyses, including stratified estimations for subgroups of patients and hospitals.

Conclusion

This robust observational evidence suggests that patients with pancreatic cancer benefit from treatment in a certified cancer center in terms of survival. Therefore, the certification of hospitals appears to be a powerful strategy to improve patient outcomes in pancreatic cancer care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04334239).
The association of childhood adversities and mental health problems with dual-harm in individuals with serious aggressive behaviors
Authors: Huang Ying , Zhang Simei , Zhong Shaoling , Gou Ningzhi , Sun Qiaoling , Guo Huijuan , Lin Ruoheng , Guo Weilong , Chen Hui , Wang Jizhi , Zhou Jiansong , Wang Xiaoping
Published: June 2022

Background

The coexistence of self-harm and aggression, which is referred to as dual-harm, is commonly seen in forensic population. Self-harm and aggression have often been studied separately, previous studies on risk factors of aggression or self-harm mainly focused on childhood adversities, emotional regulation, impulsivity and psychopathology, given their importance in the two behaviors. However, the factors associated with dual-harm remain unclear. This study aimed to explore potential risk factors associated with co-occurring self-harm among individuals with serious aggressive behaviors.

Methods

This multi-center, cross-sectional case-control study was conducted from May 2013 to January 2016 and involved seven qualified forensic institutes located in seven provinces in China. Participants were individuals with serious aggressive behaviors and were suspected to have mental disorders. Lifetime history of self-harm was obtained by a self-report questionnaire, and serious aggressive behaviors were assessed with the use of participants’ forensic archive. Sociodemographic and clinical information were collected using a self-designed standardized data collection form, and childhood adversities was assessed using a clinician-rated scale designed by our research team. The Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) was used to assess psychopathic traits and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) was used to assess psychiatric symptoms of the participants. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to analyze the relevant factors for dual-harm.

Results

A total of 423 individuals with serious aggressive behaviors were enrolled in the current study. Of them, 74 (17.5%) with self-harm history assigned into the dual-harm group (D-H) and 349 (82.5%) without self-harm history assigned into the aggression-only group (A-O). According to the binary logistic regression analysis, current diagnosis of mood disorder (OR = 3.2, 95%CI: 1.2–8.5), child abuse (OR = 2.8, 95%CI: 1.3–6.2), parental death (OR = 3.0, 95%CI: 1.2–7.5), and the score of the affective subscale in BPRS (OR = 1.7, 95%CI: 1.3–2.4) were significantly associated with dual-harm.

Conclusions

Our study suggested the necessity of integrated evaluation of self-harm among individuals with serious aggressive behaviors. Childhood adversities and psychiatric symptoms in this population require special attention.
Work-related stress and associated factors among employees of Hawassa industrial park, southern Ethiopia: an institutional based cross-sectional study
Authors: Sime Yohanes , Hailesilassie Hailemariam , Alenko Arefayne
Published: June 2022

Background

Work-related stress (WRS) is becoming an alarmingly growing public health concern worldwide. Due to globalization and changes in working conditions, people in low-income countries face growing work-relates stress. However, despite high prevalence globally, work-related stress among industrial park workers is not well studied in Ethiopia.Thus; the aim of this study was to assess work-related stress and associated factors among employees of Hawassa industrial park, southern Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was employed among 419 employees of Hawassa industrial park using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Study participants were selected using simple random sampling technique. Data was collected by face-to-face interview. A workplace stress scale (WPSS) was used to assess work-related stress. The collected data were coded and entered into EPI data 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify associated factors. The statistical significance was considered at P-value < 0.05.

Result

The Overall prevalence of work-related stress was 47.5, 95% CI (43.2, 52.1). Variables such as temporary employment [AOR = 0.41, 95% CI (0.26–0.64)], poor working condition [AOR = 2.12, 95% CI (1.32–3.43)], work experience less than two and half years [AOR = 3.11, 95% CI (1.95–4.96)], poor learning opportunity [AOR = 1.82, 95% CI (1.10–2.30)], poor organizational support [AOR = 1.70, 95% CI (1.10–2.62)], current use of khat [AOR = 2.52, 95% CI (1.28–4.99)] and current use of alcohol [AOR = 2.27, 95% CI (1.44–3.58)] were significantly associated with work-related stress.

Conclusion and recommendation

The study found high prevalence of work-related stress among employees of Hawassa industrial park. Temporary employment, poor working conditions, work experience < 21/2 years, poor learning opportunities, poor organizational support, current khat use, and current use of alcohol were significantly associated with work-related stress. Our study finding is recommending enhancing stress management skills and primary prevention on identified risk factors to industry employees.
Passive exposure to e-cigarette emissions is associated with worsened mental health
Authors: Farrell Kayla Rae , Weitzman Michael , Karey Emma , Lai Teresa K. Y. , Gordon Terry , Xu Shu
Published: June 2022

Background

Cigarette smoking, secondhand cigarette smoke (SHS) exposure, and e-cigarette use (“vaping”) are each associated with increased rates of depressive symptoms and other internalizing mental health disorders. The prevalence of vaping has increased greatly, yet the mental health correlates of secondhand exposure to e-cigarette emissions are as yet to be investigated. This study examined the potential adverse mental health outcomes associated with different tobacco exposures (direct and passive), with a particular focus on the mental health correlates of secondhand exposure to e-cigarette emissions.

Methods

The Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study data collected from a sample of 16,173 Wave 4 adults were used to test the hypothesis that secondhand e-cigarette emissions exposure is associated with increased odds of internalizing mental health disorders. Individuals were categorized as exclusive cigarette smokers, exclusive e-cigarette users, cigarette and e-cigarette dual users, exclusive noncombustible tobacco users, secondhand smoke exposed non-users, secondhand e-cigarette emissions exposed non-users, and non-users with no current SHS/secondhand e-cigarette aerosol exposure. Adjusted weighted logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between exposure type and internalizing problems as assessed by scores on the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs-Short Screener (GAIN-SS), a widely used instrument for assessing mental health problems.

Results

Cigarette smokers (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI: 2.19–2.92), e-cigarette users (AOR = 3.14, 2.41–4.09), dual users (AOR = 3.37, 2.85–4.00), noncombustible tobacco users (AOR = 1.48, 1.01–2.17), SHS exposed non-users (AOR = 1.63, 1.37–1.94), and secondhand e-cigarette emissions exposed non-users (AOR = 1.43, 1.03–1.99) were each associated with increased odds of moderate to severe internalizing mental health problems as compared to unexposed non-users. Odds of internalizing problems among SHS and secondhand e-cigarette emissions exposed non-users did not differ (p = 0.46).

Conclusions

This is the first study, to our knowledge, to identify an association between recent secondhand exposure to e-cigarette emissions and mental health problems, and the risk is comparable to that of SHS. Corroboration of this relationship needs further research to explicate directionality and mechanisms underlying this association.
Knowledge deficit and fear of COVID-19 among higher education students during the first wave of the pandemic and implications for public health: a multi-country cross-sectional survey
Authors: Berhe Neamin M. , Van de Velde Sarah , Rabiee-Khan Fatemeh , van der Heijde Claudia , Vonk Peter , Buffel Veerle , Wouters Edwin , Van Hal Guido
Published: June 2022

Background

Public health measures such as physical distancing and distance learning have been implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 related knowledge deficit can increase fear that leads to negative mental health and COVID-19, especially among adolescents. Therefore, our study aimed to assess COVID-19 related knowledge deficit and its association with fear among higher education (HE) students during the first wave of COVID-19.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey, COVID-19 International Students Well-being Study (C-19 ISWS) was conducted in 133 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in 26 countries between April 27 and July 7, 2020. A stratified convenience sampling technique was used. Descriptive, bivariate, mixed-effect logistic regression analyses were conducted using R software.

Results

Out of 127,362 respondents, 72.1% were female, and 76.5% did not report a previous history of confirmed COVID-19. The majority of those without the previous infection 81,645 (83.7%) were from 21 European countries while the rest 15,850 (16.3%) were from 5 non-European countries. The most frequent correct response to COVID-19 related knowledge questions among respondents was having the virus without having symptoms (94.3%). Compared to participants with good knowledge, the odds of being afraid of acquiring SARS-COV-2 infection among those with poor knowledge was 1.05 (95%CI:1.03,1.08) and the odds of being afraid of contracting severe COVID-19 was 1.36 (95%CI:1.31,1.40).

Conclusion

COVID-19 related knowledge was independently associated with both fear of acquiring SARS-COV-2 infection as well as contracting severe COVID-19. Our findings will serve as a basis for public health response for both the current and similar future pandemics by highlighting the need for addressing the COVID-19 knowledge deficit to fight the infodemic and prevent negative mental health outcomes.
Predictors of migration in an HIV hyper-endemic rural South African community: evidence from a population-based cohort (2005–2017)
Authors: Dzomba Armstrong , Kim Hae-Young , Tomita Andrew , Vandormael Alain , Govender Kaymarlin , Tanser Frank
Published: June 2022

Globally, South Africa hosts the highest number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and the unique legacy of internal labour migration continues to be a major driver of the regional epidemic, interrupting treatment-as-prevention efforts. The study examined levels, trends, and predictors of migration in rural KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa, using population-based surveillance data from 2005 through 2017. We followed 69 604 adult participants aged 15–49 years and recorded their migration events (i.e., out-migration from the surveillance area) in 423 038 person-years over 525 397 observations. Multiple failure Cox-regression models were used to measure the risk of migration by socio-demographic factors: age, sex, educational status, marital status, HIV, and community antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage. Overall, 69% of the population cohort experienced at least one migration event during the follow-up period. The average incidence rate of migration was 9.96 events and 13.23 events per 100 person-years in women and men, respectively. Migration rates declined from 2005 to 2008 then peaked in 2012 for both women and men. Adjusting for other covariates, the risk of migration was 3.4-times higher among young women aged 20–24 years compared to those aged ≥ 40 years (adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR] = 3.37, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 3:19–3.57), and 2.9-times higher among young men aged 20–24 years compared to those aged ≥ 40 years (aHR = 2.86, 95% CI:2.69–3.04). There was a 9% and 27% decrease in risk of migration among both women (aHR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.83 – 0.99) and men (aHR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.66 – 0.82) respectively per every 1% increase in community ART coverage. Young unmarried women including those living with HIV, migrated at a magnitude similar to that of their male counterparts, and lowered as ART coverage increased over time, reflecting the role of improved HIV services across space in reducing out-migration. A deeper understanding of the characteristics of a migrating population provides critical information towards identifying and addressing gaps in the HIV prevention and care continuum in an era of high mobility.
Associations between sleep duration, sleep quality, and weight status in Chinese children and adolescents
Authors: Chen Huan , Wang Li-Juan , Xin Fei , Liang Guo , Chen Yuan
Published: June 2022

Background and objective

The high prevalence of obesity is a serious problem, and sleep is considered to be a factor for obesity. This study aimed to examine the relationship between sleep duration, sleep quality, and weight status among children and adolescents in China and to explore whether the relationship between sleep duration and weight status is independent of sleep quality. Sex and age differences were also explored.

Methods

A cross-sectional research was conducted among 2019 children and adolescents (1029 boys and 990 girls) aged 8–16 years in Shanghai. An open-question was used to obtain data on sleep duration, which was categorized into the following four groups based on the age-specific National Sleep Foundation Sleep Duration Recommendations: 1) very short, 2) short, 3) recommended, and 4) long. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to assess sleep quality. Weight and height were measured for all participants. The variable weight status was estimated with the Chinese children and adolescent age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) and was categorized into overweight/obesity and normal weight.

Results

Short sleep duration (7–8 and 6–7 h for 6–13 and 14–16 years old, respectively) significantly increased odds of overweight/obesity (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.06–1.64) compared with that of the recommended sleep duration (9–11 and 8–10 h for 6–13 and 14–16 years old, respectively). The relationship between the two variables existed independent of sleep quality. No significant relationship was found between sleep quality and overweight/obesity of children and adolescents. Sleep quality (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.14) and short sleep duration (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.06–2.13) increased the risk for overweight/obesity among girls, whereas no significant relationships between sleep duration, sleep quality, and overweight/obesity were found among boys. Short sleep duration increased the risk of overweight/obesity in children aged 8–13 years (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.05–1.71), independent of sleep quality, but no significant relationships between these two variables existed for adolescents aged 14–16 years.

Conclusions

Overall, short sleep duration increased the risks of overweight/obesity in children and adolescents in China, independent of sleep quality. This relationship is significant for girls and children aged 8–13 years instead of boys and adolescents aged 14–16 years. Interventions to extend the sleep duration of children and adolescents, especially girls and children aged 8–13 years in China, are necessary to improve their weight status.
Balance and prospective falls in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wiegmann Sabine , Armbrecht Gabriele , Borucki Diana , Buehring Bjoern , Buttgereit Frank , Detzer Christian , Schaumburg Désirée , Zeiner Kim Nikola , Dietzel Roswitha
Published: June 2022

Background

Postural control is associated with fall risk. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a higher risk to fall than healthy subjects. The objective of this study was to identify associations between variables of postural control with prospective falls in patients with RA.

Methods

For the baseline, the balance performance of 289 men and women with RA, ages 24–85 years, was evaluated by SPPB, FICSIT-4 and Romberg tests. Postural sway for Romberg, semitandem, tandem and one-leg stands were measured with the Leonardo Mechanograph®. Self-reported disability was assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the Activity-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC-scale). Falls were reported in quarterly reports over a year. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to explore any associations with falling. Receiver-operating characteristics were determined, and the area under the curve is reported.

Results

A total of 238 subjects completed the 1-year follow-up, 48 (20.2%) experienced at least one fall during the observational period. Age (OR = 1.04, CI 1.01–1.07), HAQ (OR = 1.62, 1.1–2.38), FICSIT-4 scoring 0–4 (OR = 2.38, 1.13–5.0), and one-leg standing (OR = 2.14, 1.06–4.31) showed significant associations with falls. With regard to the SPPB and ABC-scale, no statistically significant associations with falls were found. The quartiles containing the worst results of medio-lateral sway of Romberg (OR = 2.63, CI 1.03–6.69), total sway of semitandem (OR = 3.07, CI 1.10–8.57) and tandem (OR = 2.86, CI 1.06–7.69), and area of sway of semitandem (OR = 2.80, CI 1.11–7.08) stands were associated with falls.

Conclusions

The assessment of a one-leg stand seems to be a good screening tool to discriminate between high and low risk of falls in RA patients in clinical practice. A low FICSIT-4 score and several sway parameters are important predictors of falls.

Trial registration

The study has been registered at the German Clinical Trials Register and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) since 16 March 2017 (DRKS00011873).
Change of contraceptive preference after the free-LARC program for Thai teenagers
Authors: Inthavong Sathaphone , Pantasri Tawiwan , Morakote Nuntana , Muangmool Tanarat , Piyamongkol Wirawit , Pongsatha Saipin , Chaovisitseree Somsak
Published: June 2022

Background

In 2014, the Thai government launched a free-of-charge long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) program for Thai female adolescents. However, its acceptance had not been reported. Therefore, this study aimed to describe contraceptive use among women of reproductive age before and after the program was implemented.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out from the medical records of 9000 women of reproductive age, who attended the Family Planning Clinic at Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital between 2009 and 2018. The Chi-square test was used to compare the contraceptive methods administered before and after the program was implemented, and binary logistic regression was used to find the factors associated with implant use after completion of the program.

Results

Depot medroxy progesterone acetate (DMPA) injection was the most popular contraceptive method used among 40.9% of the women. The rates of subdermal implant use were increased significantly after the program was implemented (2.3–9.3%, p < 0.001). Implant use for adolescents aged less than 20 years increased from 2.6% to 56.4%, while DMPA was the most popular method used among adult women at 36.4%. Factors associated significantly with implant use after implement of the program included age of less than 20 years (aOR = 4.17 (CI: 1.84–9.44); p = 0.001) and nulliparity (aOR = 8.55 (CI: 3.77–19.39); p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study showed a significant increase in contraceptive implant use after the free-LARC program for adolescents had been applied.

Statement of implications

Contraceptive implant is the most effective hormonal reversible contraception. Its use rate is low among all age groups, but increased clearly after the free-of-charge program was applied for adolescents.
Young mothers’ use of and experiences with mental health care services in Ontario, Canada: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Jack Susan M. , Duku Eric , Whitty Heather , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , Niccols Alison , Georgiades Katholiki , Lipman Ellen L.
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite the high prevalence of mental health issues among young mothers, their subsequent needs for mental health care support does not correlate with their access and use of services. The purpose of this study, grounded in the experiences of young mothers living in Ontario, Canada, was to describe their experiences of using mental health services during the perinatal period, and to identify the attributes of services and professionals that influenced their decision to engage with mental health services.

Methods

As the qualitative component of a sequential explanatory mixed methods study, the principles of qualitative description informed sampling, data collection, and analysis decisions. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 29 young mothers (≤ 21 years) who met diagnostic criteria for at least one psychiatric disorder, and who were ≥ 2 months postpartum. Interview data were triangulated with data from ecomaps and a sub-set of demographic data for this purposeful sample from the survey conducted in the quantitative study component. Qualitative data were analyzed using both conventional content analysis and reflexive thematic analysis; the subset of survey data extracted for these 29 participants were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Young mothers identified the need to have at least one individual, either an informal social support or formal service provider who they could talk to about their mental health. Among participants deciding to seek professional mental health support, their hesitancy to access services was grounded in past negative experiences or fears of being judged, being medicated, not being seen as an active partner in care decisions or experiencing increased child protection involvement. Participants identified organizational and provider attributes of those delivering mental health care that they perceived influenced their use of or engagement with services.

Conclusion

Organizations or health/social care professionals providing mental health services to young pregnant or parenting mothers are recommended to implement trauma-and violence-informed care. This approach prioritizes the emotional and physical safety of individuals within the care environment. Applying this lens in service delivery also aligns with the needs of young mothers, including that they are actively listened to, treated with respect, and genuinely engaged as active partners in making decisions about their care and treatment.
Network pharmacology and in vivo experiments reveal the pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of Simiao Powder in prevention and treatment for gout
Authors: Xu Huachong , Wu Jialin , Wang Shiqi , Xu Lu , Liu Pei , Shi Yucong , Wu Sizhi , Deng Li , Chen Xiaoyin
Published: June 2022

Background

Gout is a common disease with high incidence due to unhealthy diet and living habits. Simiao Powder, as a classic formula consisted of four common herbs, has been widely used in clinical practice since ancient times to prevent and treat gout. However, the pharmacological mechanism of Simiao Powder is still unclear.

Methods

Based on network pharmacology, Simiao Powder active compounds were identified in TCMSP, ETCM and BATMAN database, used to establish a network of interaction between potential targets of Simiao Powder and known therapeutic targets of gout. Subsequently, the key potential targets are being used for protein–protein interaction, GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis through several authoritative open databases. Molecular docking through AutoDockTools software can verify interaction between molecules. Finally, to validate the predicted results, in vivo experiments based on hyperuricemic-gout mice model were designed and treated with Simiao powder and allopurinol. Serum levels of uric acid (UA), creatinine (Cr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and xanthine oxidase (XOD) were determined using a customized assay kit while the expression of PPAR-γ, PTGS1, IL-6 and Bcl2 mRNA were analyzed through qRT-PCR.

Results

Disease-target-compound network was visualized basing on the 20 bioactive compounds and the 19 potential targets using Cytoscape software. The results of PPI analysis, GO enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicate that the potential mechanism of Simiao Powder in treating gout may be achieved by regulating immune and inflammatory reactions, improving metabolism and endocrine. The results of molecular docking show that most of the targets and components have good binding activity. In vivo experiments revealed that Simiao powder can decreased serum UA and XOD levels in hyperuricemic-gout mice, and improved renal function. Furthermore, Simiao powder certainly regulates the expression of PPAR-γ, PTGS1, IL-6 and Bcl2 mRNA in ankle tissue in hyperuricemic-gout mice.

Conclusion

Collectively, this research predicted a multiple compounds, targets, and pathways model mechanism of Simiao Powder in the prevention and treatment of gout, providing new ideas and methods for in-depth research, via vivo experiments.
Soft drink and non-caloric soft drink intake and their association with blood pressure: the Health Workers Cohort Study
Authors: Hernández-López Rubí , Canto-Osorio Francisco , Vidaña-Pérez Dèsirée , Torres-Ibarra Leticia , Rivera-Paredez Berenice , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Velazquez Rafael , Ramírez Paula , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Tonatiuh , Salmerón Jorge , López-Olmedo Nancy
Published: June 2022

Background

A few prospective studies have investigated the potential association of soft drink and non-caloric soft drink intake with high blood pressure using methods that adequately consider changes in intake over time and hypertensive status at baseline.

Objective

To prospectively examine the association of soft drink and non-caloric soft drink intake with systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a sample of Mexican adults, overall and by hypertension status.

Methods

We used data from the Health Workers Cohort Study spanning from 2004 to 2018 (n = 1,324 adults). Soft drink and non-caloric soft drink intake were assessed with a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. We fit multivariable-adjusted fixed-effects models to test the association of soft drink and non-caloric soft drink intake with systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The models were adjusted for potential confounders and considering the potential modifying effect of hypertension status at baseline.

Results

A one-serving increase in soft drink intake was associated with a 2.08 mm Hg (95% CI: 0.21, 3.94) increase in systolic blood pressure and 2.09 mm Hg (95% CI: 0.81, 3.36) increase in diastolic blood pressure over ten years. A stronger association between soft drink intake and diastolic pressure was observed among participants with versus without hypertension at baseline. We found no association between non-caloric soft drink intake and blood pressure.

Conclusions

Our findings support the hypothesis that soft drink intake increases blood pressure. While further studies should be conducted to confirm our findings, food policies and recommendations to limit soft drink intake are likely to help reduce blood pressure at the population level. We probably did not find an association between non-caloric soft drink intake and blood pressure because of the low consumption of this type of beverage in the cohort. More studies will be needed to understand the potential effect of non-caloric beverages on blood pressure.
Mental and psychosocial health and health related quality of life before and after cardiac rehabilitation: a prospective cohort study with comparison to specific population norms
Authors: Angst Felix , Giger Raoul D. , Lehmann Susanne , Sandor Peter S. , Teuchmann Peter , Csordas Adam
Published: June 2022

Background

Data on mental health improvement after cardiac rehabilitation (CR) are contradictory. The aim was to examine the mental and psycho-social health of patients admitted to our rehabilitation center following hospital treatment for acute coronary syndrome, before and after multidisciplinary CR.

Methods

Outcome was measured at admission and discharge by the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36), the Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90R), the Coping Strategy Questionnaire (CSQ) and the 6-min-walking distance test. The patients’ health status was compared with norms of sex-, age- and comorbidity-matched data from the German general population. Score differences from norms were measured by standardized mean differences (SMDs); health changes were quantified by standardized effect sizes (ESs). Their importance for comprehensive assessment was quantified by explorative factor analysis.

Results

Of n = 70 patients followed-up (male: 79%; mean age: 66.6 years), 79% had ≥ 3 comorbidities. At baseline, SF-36 Physical functioning (SMD = − 0.75), Role physical (− 0.90), Social functioning (SMD = − 0.44), and Role emotional (SMD = − 0.45) were significantly worse than the norm. After CR, almost all scores significantly improved by ES = 0.23 (SCL-90R Interpersonal sensitivity) to 1.04 (SF-36 Physical functioning). The strongest factor (up to 41.1% explained variance) for health state and change was the mental health domain, followed by function & pain (up to 26.3%).

Conclusions

Normative deficits in physical and psycho-social health were reported at baseline. After CR, at follow-up, all scores, except phobia, showed significant improvement. The comprehensive measurement of bio-psycho-social health should not be limited to depression and anxiety but include, especially, the somatization and social participation dimensions.
Therapeutic recreation camps for youth with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus: perceived psychosocial benefits
Authors: Saez Cristina , Nassi Lorien , Wright Tracey , Makris Una E. , Kramer Justin , Bermas Bonnie L. , Solow E. Blair , Bitencourt Nicole
Published: June 2022

Background

The psychosocial burden of having a chronic disease can be substantial for adolescents with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE). Current literature is scarce on interventions that can improve psychosocial outcomes for this population. Therapeutic recreation camps have been proposed as a beneficial experience for chronically ill pediatric populations. However, their effective components have not been well characterized in patients with cSLE. In this study, we sought to understand the various components of the camp experience for adolescents with cSLE from both the patient and parent perspective.

Methods

We recruited patients with cSLE who had participated in one or more annual, weekend-long recreational lupus camp(s) near Dallas, Texas. Semi-structured in-depth telephone interviews were conducted from March-June 2020 with both the patients and parents. Questions focused on overall patient experience, psychosocial impact of camp participation, coping skills gained, and opportunities to prepare for the transition from pediatric to adult care. Interviews were coded and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

We interviewed 9 current and former campers (ages 16–24), including a current camp counselor, and 3 of their parents separately. Reported benefits included a positive impact on social support through peer bonding, opportunities to develop coping mechanisms through structured activities and peer/medical staff interactions, opportunities for education about the cSLE disease experience, improved adherence through peer modeling, overall increase in self-efficacy, and better parental insight into the patient experience. Participants also provided suggestions for expansion and improvement in program development to optimize educational opportunities for both campers and parents. In addition, they advocated for longitudinal social support and community building.

Conclusions

In this qualitative study, in which cSLE patients and their parents reflected on their experiences with therapeutic recreation camps, we found several perceived benefits impacting the patient and parent experience. Participants expressed a desire for more educational opportunities that could contribute to their successful transition from pediatric to adult care. Further studies are needed to demonstrate the effects of therapeutic recreation camps on the psychosocial health of this population.