bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome assembly of Ottelia alismoides, a multiple-carbon utilisation aquatic plant
Authors: Wang Zheng-Feng , Wu Lin-Fang , Chen Lei , Zhu Wei-Guang , Yu En-Ping , Xu Feng-Xia , Cao Hong-Lin
Published: May 2024

Objectives

OtteliaPers. is in the Hydrocharitaceae family. Species in the genus are aquatic, and China is their centre of origin in Asia.Ottelia alismoides(L.) Pers., which is distributed worldwide, is a distinguishing element in China, while other species of this genus are endemic to China. However,O. alismoidesis also considered endangered due to habitat loss and pollution in some Asian countries.Ottelia alismoidesis the only submerged macrophyte that contains three carbon dioxide-concentrating mechanisms, i.e. bicarbonate (HCO3−) use, crassulacean acid metabolism and the C4 pathway. In this study, we present its first genome assembly to help illustrate the various carbon metabolism mechanisms and to enable genetic conservation in the future.

Data description

Using DNA and RNA extracted from oneO. alismoidesleaf, this work produced ∼ 73.4 Gb HiFi reads, ∼ 126.4 Gb whole genome sequencing short reads and ∼ 21.9 Gb RNA-seq reads. Thede novogenome assembly was 6,455,939,835 bp in length, with 11,923 scaffolds/contigs and an N50 of 790,733 bp. Genome assembly completeness assessment with Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs revealed a score of 94.4%. The repetitive sequence in the assembly was 4,875,817,144 bp (75.5%). A total of 116,176 genes were predicted. The protein sequences were functionally annotated against multiple databases, facilitating comparative genomic analysis.
Transcriptome sequencing and metabolome analysis reveal the molecular mechanism of Salvia miltiorrhiza in response to drought stress
Authors: Zhou Ying , Bai Yan-Hong , Han Feng-Xia , Chen Xue , Wu Fu-Sheng , Liu Qian , Ma Wen-Zhe , Zhang Yong-Qing
Published: May 2024

Salvia miltiorrhiza is commonly used as a Chinese herbal medicine to treat different cardiovascular and cerebrovascular illnesses due to its active ingredients. Environmental conditions, especially drought stress, can affect the yield and quality of S. miltiorrhiza. However, moderate drought stress could improve the quality of S. miltiorrhiza without significantly reducing the yield, and the mechanism of this initial drought resistance is still unclear. In our study, transcriptome and metabolome analyses of S. miltiorrhiza under different drought treatment groups (CK, A, B, and C groups) were conducted to reveal the basis for its drought tolerance. We discovered that the leaves of S. miltiorrhiza under different drought treatment groups had no obvious shrinkage, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) contents as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities dramatically increased, indicating that our drought treatment methods were moderate, and the leaves of S. miltiorrhiza began to initiate drought resistance. The morphology of root tissue had no significant change under different drought treatment groups, and the contents of four tanshinones significantly enhanced. In all, 5213, 6611, and 5241 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were shared in the A, B, and C groups compared with the CK group, respectively. The results of KEGG and co-expression analysis showed that the DEGs involved in plant-pathogen interactions, the MAPK signaling pathway, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, and plant hormone signal transduction responded to drought stress and were strongly correlated with tanshinone biosynthesis. Furthermore, the results of metabolism analysis indicated that 67, 72, and 92 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), including fumarate, ferulic acid, xanthohumol, and phytocassanes, which were primarily involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, and diterpenoid biosynthesis pathways, were detected in these groups. These discoveries provide valuable information on the molecular mechanisms by which S. miltiorrhiza responds to drought stress and will facilitate the development of drought-resistant and high-quality S. miltiorrhiza production.
Genome-wide characterisation of HD-Zip transcription factors and functional analysis of PbHB24 during stone cell formation in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri)
Authors: Wang Qi , Wang Yueyang , Zhang Fanhang , Han Chengyang , Wang Yanling , Ren Mei , Qi Kaijie , Xie Zhihua , Zhang Shaoling , Tao Shutian , Shiratake Katsuhiro
Published: May 2024

Background

The homodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) is a conserved transcription factor family unique to plants that regulate multiple developmental processes including lignificaion. Stone cell content is a key determinant negatively affecting pear fruit quality, which causes a grainy texture of fruit flesh, because of the lignified cell walls.

Results

In this study, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of HD-Zip genes in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) (PbHBs) was performed. Genome-wide identification of the PbHB gene family revealed 67 genes encoding PbHB proteins, which could be divided into four subgroups (I, II, III, and IV). For some members, similar intron/exon structural patterns support close evolutionary relationships within the same subgroup. The functions of each subgroup of the PbHB family were predicted through comparative analysis with the HB genes in Arabidopsis and other plants. Cis-element analysis indicated that PbHB genes might be involved in plant hormone signalling and external environmental responses, such as light, stress, and temperature. Furthermore, RNA-sequencing data and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) verification revealed the regulatory roles of PbHB genes in pear stone cell formation. Further, co-expression network analysis revealed that the eight PbHB genes could be classified into different clusters of co-expression with lignin-related genes. Besides, the biological function of PbHB24 in promoting stone cell formation has been demonstrated by overexpression in fruitlets.

Conclusions

This study provided the comprehensive analysis of PbHBs and highlighted the importance of PbHB24 during stone cell development in pear fruits.
Blocking of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 promoted tillering and yield by determining basic and neutral amino acids accumulation in rice
Authors: Jin Feng , Xie Pengfei , Li Zhenghan , Wu Bowen , Huang Weiting , Fang Zhongming
Published: May 2024

Background

Amino acids are not only the main form of N in rice, but also are vital for its growth and development. These processes are facilitated by amino acid transporters within the plant. Despite their significance, only a few AAP amino acid transporters have been reported.

Results

In this study, we observed that there were differences in the expression of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 among 521 wild cultivated rice varieties, and it directly negatively correlated with tillering and grain yield per plant. We revealed that OsAAP7 protein was localized to the endoplasmic reticulum and had absorption and transport affinity for amino acids such as phenylalanine (Phe), lysine (Lys), leucine (Leu), and arginine (Arg) using subcellular localization, yeast substrate testing, fluorescent amino acid uptake, and amino acid content determination. Further hydroponic studies showed that exogenous application of amino acids Phe, Lys and Arg inhibited the growth of axillary buds in the overexpression lines, and promoted the elongation of axillary buds in the mutant lines. Finally, RNA-seq analysis showed that the expression patterns of genes related to nitrogen, auxin and cytokinin pathways were changed in axillary buds of OsAAP7 transgenic plants.

Conclusions

This study revealed the gene function of OsAAP7, and found that blocking of amino acid transporter OsAAP7 with CRISPR/Cas9 technology promoted tillering and yield by determining basic and neutral amino acids accumulation in rice.
Anomalous origin of the coronary artery: prevalence and coronary artery disease in adults undergoing coronary tomographic angiography
Authors: Li Kunyan , Hu Ping , Luo Xiaolin , Li Furong , Chen Ling , Zhao Junyong , Wang Zelan , Luo Wenjian , Jin Jun , Qin Zhexue
Published: May 2024

Background

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is a rare congenital coronary anomaly with the potential to cause adverse cardiac events. However, there is limited data on the association between AAOCA and coronary artery disease (CAD). Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and symptoms of patients with AAOCA, as well as investigate the correlation between AAOCA and CAD in a population referred for coronary computed tomographic angiography (CTA).

Methods and results

All consecutive patients who underwent CTA from 2010 to 2021 were included. Characteristics, symptoms, coronary related adverse events and CTA information were reviewed by medical records. Separate multivariable cumulative logistic regressions were performed, using the stenosis severity in each of the four coronaries as individual responses and as a combined patient clustered response. Finally, we identified 207 adult patients with AAOCA, the prevalence of AAOCA is 0.23% (207/90,501). Moreover, this study found no significant association between AAOCA and CAD. AAOCA did not contribute to higher rates of hospitalization or adverse cardiac events, including calcification.

Conclusion

AAOCA is a rare congenital disease that is not associated with increased presence of obstructive CAD in adults.
Profiles of centenarians’ functioning: linking functional and cognitive capacity with depressive symptoms
Authors: Uittenhove Kim , Lampraki Charikleia , da Rocha Carla Gomes , Rott Christoph , von Gunten Armin , Jopp Daniela S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite most centenarians facing age-related declines in functional and cognitive capacities, the severity of these declines varies among individuals, as does the maintenance of good mental health (e.g., depressive symptoms) despite these declines. This study aims to examine this heterogeneity in centenarians from the Second Heidelberg Centenarian Study, which collected data from 112 centenarians living in Germany. In our study, we focus on a subsample of 73 centenarians who provided self-reports for our measures of interest (M age = 100.4, SD age = 0.55).

Methods

We examined correlations between functional capacity (i.e., PADL, IADL), cognitive capacity (i.e., MMSE), and depressive symptoms (i.e., GDS), and the existence of different profiles using hierarchical clustering.

Results

Higher functional capacity was related to higher cognitive capacity and to fewer depressive symptoms. Yet, higher cognitive capacity was associated with more depressive symptoms. Hierarchical clustering analysis elucidated this contradiction by identifying three profiles: low-capacity individuals (i.e., 24 individuals had low functional and cognitive capacities, with low depressive symptoms), high-capacity individuals (i.e., 33 individuals with high functional and cognitive capacities, with low depressive symptoms), and low-functional-high-cognitive-capacity individuals (i.e., 16 individuals showed low functional but high cognitive capacity, with high depressive symptoms). Our post-hoc analyses highlighted arthritis and pain as risk factors for functional dependence and depression.

Conclusions

Our findings emphasize the importance of identifying centenarian subgroups with specific resource- and risk profiles to better address their needs, and of treating pain to improve functional capacity and mental health in centenarians.
Effect of degalactosylated bovine glycoprotein formulations MAF and M сapsules on lymphopenia and clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Inui Toshio , Kruglova Oksana , Martynenko Olga , Martynenko Kostiantyn , Tieroshyn Vadym , Gavrylov Anatoliy , Kubo Kentaro , Yamakage Hajime , Kutsyn Borys , Kubashko Alla , Veklych Zoryana , Terashima Yurika , Mette Martin , Kutsyna Galyna
Published: May 2024

Background

Targeting mucosal immunity of the gut, which is known to provide antigen processing, while avoiding excessive or unnecessary inflammation, was tested as a way to modulate COVID-19 severity.

Methods

Randomized open-label trial in 204 adults hospitalized with non-critical COVID-19 who received for 14 days in addition to standard of care (SOC) degalactosylated bovine glycoproteins formulations of either MAF capsules (MAF group) or M capsules (M group) or SOC only (control group).

Results

Median recovery time when patients did not require supplemental oxygen was 6 days in both study groups compared to 9 days in the control (MAF vs. control; P = 0.020 and M vs. control; P = 0.004). A greater reduction in mortality was seen in the MAF group compared to the control by day 14 (8.3% vs. 1.6%; P = 0.121) and by day 29 (15.3% vs. 3.2%; P = 0.020), and similarly in the M group by day 14 (8.3% vs. 2.9%; P = 0.276) and by day 29 (15.3% vs. 2.9%; P = 0.017). The proportion of those who had baseline absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) lower than 0.8 × 109/L was 13/63 (20.6%), 17/69 (24.6%), and 18/72 (25.0%) of patients in MAF, M, and control group respectively. Day 29 mortality among these lymphopenic patients was three times higher than for the intent-to-treat population (21% vs. 7%) and consisted in above subgroups: 2/13 (15%), 2/17 (12%), and 6/18 (33%) of patients. The decreased mortality in both study subgroups correlated with greater ALC restoration above 0.8 × 109/L level seen on day 14 in 91% (11/12) and 87.5% (14/16) of survivors in MAF and M subgroups respectively compared to 53.3% (8/15) of survivors in control subgroup. Incidences of any ALC decrease below the baseline level on day 14 occurred in 25.4% of patients in the MAF group and 29.0% of patients in the M group compared to 45.8% in control and ALC depletion by ≥ 50% from the baseline level consisted of 7.9%, 5.8%, and 15.3% of cases in these groups respectively.

Conclusion

This study showed that both study agents prevented ALC depletion and accelerated its restoration, which is believed to be one of the mechanisms of improved crucial clinical outcomes in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Trial registration

The trial was registered after the trial start in ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04762628, registered 21/02/2021, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04762628.
Genetic heterogeneity in epilepsy and comorbidities: insights from Pakistani families
Authors: Yasin Muhammad , Licchetta Laura , Khan Niamat , Ullah Irfan , Jan Zakir , Dawood Muhammad , Ahmed Asif Naveed , Azeem Arfa , Minardi Raffaella , Carelli Valerio , Saleha Shamim
Published: May 2024

Background

Epilepsy, a challenging neurological condition, is often present with comorbidities that significantly impact diagnosis and management. In the Pakistani population, where financial limitations and geographical challenges hinder access to advanced diagnostic methods, understanding the genetic underpinnings of epilepsy and its associated conditions becomes crucial.

Methods

This study investigated four distinct Pakistani families, each presenting with epilepsy and a spectrum of comorbidities, using a combination of whole exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing. The epileptic patients were prescribed multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs), yet their seizures persist, indicating the challenging nature of ASM-resistant epilepsy.

Results

Identified genetic variants contributed to a diverse range of clinical phenotypes. In the family 1, which presented with epilepsy, developmental delay (DD), sleep disturbance, and aggressive behavior, a homozygous splice site variant, c.1339–6 C > T, in the COL18A1 gene was detected. The family 2 exhibited epilepsy, intellectual disability (ID), DD, and anxiety phenotypes, a homozygous missense variant, c.344T > A (p. Val115Glu), in the UFSP2 gene was identified. In family 3, which displayed epilepsy, ataxia, ID, DD, and speech impediment, a novel homozygous frameshift variant, c.1926_1941del (p. Tyr643MetfsX2), in the ZFYVE26 gene was found. Lastly, family 4 was presented with epilepsy, ID, DD, deafness, drooling, speech impediment, hypotonia, and a weak cry. A homozygous missense variant, c.1208 C > A (p. Ala403Glu), in the ATP13A2 gene was identified.

Conclusion

This study highlights the genetic heterogeneity in ASM-resistant epilepsy and comorbidities among Pakistani families, emphasizing the importance of genotype-phenotype correlation and the necessity for expanded genetic testing in complex clinical cases.
Systematic literature review of real-world evidence for treatments in HR+/HER2- second-line LABC/mBC after first-line treatment with CDK4/6i
Authors: Lambert Veronique , Kane Sarah , Howidi Belal , Nguyen Bao-Ngoc , Chandiwana David , Wu Yan , Edwards Michelle , Samjoo Imtiaz A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) combined with endocrine therapy (ET) are currently recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines and the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) guidelines as the first-line (1 L) treatment for patients with hormone receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative, locally advanced/metastatic breast cancer (HR+/HER2- LABC/mBC). Although there are many treatment options, there is no clear standard of care for patients following 1 L CDK4/6i. Understanding the real-world effectiveness of subsequent therapies may help to identify an unmet need in this patient population. This systematic literature review qualitatively synthesized effectiveness and safety outcomes for treatments received in the real-world setting after 1 L CDK4/6i therapy in patients with HR+/ HER2- LABC/mBC.

Methods

MEDLINE®, Embase, and Cochrane were searched using the Ovid® platform for real-world evidence studies published between 2015 and 2022. Grey literature was searched to identify relevant conference abstracts published from 2019 to 2022. The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO registration: CRD42023383914). Data were qualitatively synthesized and weighted average median real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS) was calculated for NCCN/ESMO-recommended post-1 L CDK4/6i treatment regimens.

Results

Twenty records (9 full-text articles and 11 conference abstracts) encompassing 18 unique studies met the eligibility criteria and reported outcomes for second-line (2 L) treatments after 1 L CDK4/6i; no studies reported disaggregated outcomes in the third-line setting or beyond. Sixteen studies included NCCN/ESMO guideline-recommended treatments with the majority evaluating endocrine-based therapy; five studies on single-agent ET, six studies on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) ± ET, and three studies with a mix of ET and/or mTORi. Chemotherapy outcomes were reported in 11 studies. The most assessed outcome was median rwPFS; the weighted average median rwPFS was calculated as 3.9 months (3.3-6.0 months) for single-agent ET, 3.6 months (2.5–4.9 months) for mTORi ± ET, 3.7 months for a mix of ET and/or mTORi (3.0–4.0 months), and 6.1 months (3.7–9.7 months) for chemotherapy. Very few studies reported other effectiveness outcomes and only two studies reported safety outcomes. Most studies had heterogeneity in patient- and disease-related characteristics.

Conclusions

The real-world effectiveness of current 2 L treatments post-1 L CDK4/6i are suboptimal, highlighting an unmet need for this patient population.
Real-world efficacy and safety of capecitabine with oxaliplatin in patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater
Authors: Lee Seunghwan , Park Se Jun , Shin Kabsoo , Hong Tae Ho , Kim In-Ho , Lee Myung Ah
Published: May 2024

Background

Adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater (AoV) is one of the rare periampullary cancers, and due to its anatomical location, it is categorized into various histologic subtypes. Its rarity and diversity pose challenges in treatment decision-making for patients with advanced AoV carcinoma. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of the combined regimen of capecitabine and oxaliplatin (CAPOX) in a real-world clinical setting.

Methods

This investigation encompassed patients with advanced AoV carcinoma who underwent CAPOX treatment. Histologic phenotypes were identified through a combination of histopathological analysis and protein expression markers, including MUC1, CDX2, CK20, and MUC2. The correlation between histopathological determinants and survival outcomes was explored, in addition to an evaluation of the safety profile of CAPOX therapy.

Results

From January 2010 to June 2023, 42 patients received CAPOX. Of these, 14 patients (33.3%) had not received any prior palliative chemotherapy, while 28 patients (66.7%) had undergone one prior line of chemotherapy. At a median follow up of 9.0 months, the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 4.38 months (95% CI, 2.78–5.69) and the median overall survival (OS) was 9.57 months (95% CI 7.56–11.6). The objective response and disease control rates were 38.1% and 61.9%, respectively. Patients who received CAPOX as a second-line treatment had poorer PFS (HR = 2.62; 95% CI, 1.49–4.90, p = 0.003) and OS (HR = 2.82, 95% CI, 1.47–5.38, p = 0.001) compared to those who received CAPOX as a first-line chemotherapy. There were no statistically significant differences in PFS (p = 0.185) and OS (p = 0.097) between groups based on histologic subtypes. Neutropenia (14.3%) emerged as the predominant grade 3–4 toxicity. Notably, treatment cessation occurred in select instances owing to grade 3 fatigue (9.5%) and peripheral neuropathy (9.5%).

Conclusions

This study confirmed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of CAPOX in a real-world setting, consistent with prior phase II trial results. While CAPOX proved feasible for advanced AoV carcinoma regardless of histologic subtype, its reduced effectiveness in second-line settings necessitates further research to determine its optimal palliative use.
Hypoxaemia risk in pediatric flexible bronchoscopy for foreign body removal: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Su-Jing , Lin Min-Yi , Zhou Min , Dan Ying-Zhi , Gu Hong-Bin , Lu Guo-Lin
Published: May 2024

Background

Hypoxemia represents the most prevalent adverse event during flexible bronchoscopy procedures aimed at foreign body retrieval in pediatric patients; if not expeditiously managed, it carries the potential for cardiac or respiratory arrest. The specific risk factors contributing to the occurrence of hypoxemia during foreign body FB removal via bronchoscopy have yet to be definitively established.

Methods

This retrospective study included a cohort of 266 pediatric subjects from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2022, who underwent flexible bronchoscopy for the purpose of FB extraction. In this cohort, the supraglottic airway was used to connect the anesthesia apparatus during the removal procedure.

Results

In total, 45 of the pediatric patients (16.9%) experienced episodes of hypoxemia during the FB removal procedure. Multivariate analysis revealed that the following factors were significantly associated with the occurrence of hypoxemia: an operation time exceeding 60 min (odds ratio [OR] 8.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.82–19.13), a maximum diameter exceeding 7 mm (OR 5.03; 95% CI, 2.24–11.29), and the presence of radiological evidence indicating pneumonia (OR 2.69; 95% CI, 1.27–5.69).

Conclusion

During flexible bronchoscopy procedures aimed at FB removal in pediatric patients, there is an increased susceptibility to hypoxemia. Factors including extended operation duration, larger FB dimensions, and radiographic evidence suggestive of pneumonia significantly contribute to a heightened risk of hypoxemia.
Factors influencing stress and resilience among Egyptian medical students: a multi-centric cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammed Hazem E. , Bady Zeyad , Abdelhamid Zeinab G. , Elawfi Bashaer , AboElfarh Hadeer Elsaeed , Elboraay Toka , Abdel-Salam Doaa Mazen
Published: May 2024

Background

Psychological stress is a common psychological comorbidity among medical students and worsens their quality of life. Psychological resilience is thought to have a protective role against stress. However, evidence regarding the prevalence of stress and resilience alongside their associated factors is scarce, especially in the Middle East. This is the first multicenter, cross-sectional study to investigate resilience and stress among Egyptian medical students.

Methods

The current cross-sectional study was conducted on 2465 university students in seven public universities in Egypt. The universities were selected using the simple randomization method. The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire consisting of four parts: demographic data, socioeconomic tool represented in the Family Affluence Scale (FAS), the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Data was analyzed in SPSS version 26 software.

Results

The majority of the students were stressed (86.5%), most of whom had severe stress (48.9%). Most of the students had low resilience (49.9%), while only 3.2% had high resilience. In the logistic regression analysis, being a female, living alone, spending long hours on social media, and thinking of suicide or leaving medicine were associated with being stressed and having low resilience. Medical students with low resilience were significantly more liable to stress [Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.667, confidence interval (CI): 2.709–4.965, P = 0.000], and vice versa [AOR = 3.709, CI: 2.746–5.009, P = 0.000]. Interestingly, high socioeconomic status showed a significant association with high resilience (P = 0.004); nonetheless, it was not associated with stress (P = 0.993). Academic grades were not associated with both the level of stress and resilience. Aging, being in clinical or academic stages, smoking, having a chronic disease, and being financially-supported are neither associated with stress nor resilience.

Conclusions

The present study revealed that Egyptian medical students had low resilience and high stress, with a significant relationship between both of them. Further investigations via longitudinal study design to understand the resilience-stress relationship are recommended. Developing and implementing resilience-improving strategies in medical schools is highly recommended to decrease the prevalence of stress and its subsequent burdens.
Energy, nutrient and overall healthiness of processed packaged foods in Fiji, a comparison between 2018 and 2020
Authors: Palu Aliyah , Santos Joseph Alvin , Silatolu Ana Moala , Deo Alvina , Bell Colin , Waqa Gade , Webster Jacqui , McKenzie Briar L.
Published: May 2024

In Fiji, packaged foods are becoming increasingly available. However, it is unknown if nutrition composition of these foods has changed. This study aims to assess changes in energy, nutrient content and healthiness of packaged foods by comparing data from five major supermarkets in Fiji in 2018 and 2020. Foods were categorised into 14 groups; nutrient composition information was extracted and healthiness assessed using Health Star Rating (HSR). Descriptive statistics and a separate matched products analysis was conducted summarising differences in nutrient content and HSR. There was limited evidence of change in the nutrient content of included products however, there was a small reduction in mean saturated fat in the snack food category (-1.0 g/100 g, 95% CI -1.6 to -0.4 g/100 g). The proportion of products considered healthy based on HSR, increased in the convenience foods category (28.4%, 95% CI 8.3 to 48.5) and decreased in non-alcoholic beverages (-35.2%, 95% CI -43.6 to -26.9). The mean HSR score increased in the fruit and vegetables category (0.1 (95% CI 0.1, 0.2)) and decreased for non-alcoholic beverages (-1.1 (-1.3, -0.9)) and the sauces, dressings, spreads, and dips category (-0.3 (-0.3, -0.2)). Strengthened monitoring of the food supply is needed to improve the healthiness of foods available.
Determinants of premenstrual dysphoric disorder and associated factors among regular undergraduate students at Hawassa University Southern, Ethiopia, 2023: institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Chekol Aklile Tsega , Reta Yared , Ayinewa Fikadu , Hailu Lielina , Tesema Mulualem , Wale Mastewal Aschale
Published: May 2024

Background

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a condition causing severe emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms before menstruation. It greatly hinders daily activities, affecting academic and interpersonal relationships. Attention is not given to premenstrual disorders among female students in higher education. As a result, students are susceptible to stress, and their academic success is influenced by various factors, including their menstrual cycle, and the long-term outcomes and consequences are poorly researched. Even though PMDD has a significant negative impact on student’s academic achievement and success limited research has been conducted in low- and middle-income countries including Ethiopia, especially in the study setting. Therefore, a study is needed to assess premenstrual dysphoric disorder and associated factors among regular undergraduate students at Hawassa University.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 374 regular undergraduate female students at Hawassa University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences. A self-administered structured premenstrual symptoms screening tool for adolescents was used to assess premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The collected data were loaded into a statistical package for the social science version 25 and analyzed using it. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Each independent variable was entered separately into bivariate analysis, and a variable with a p-value less than 0.25 were included in the multivariate analysis to adjust the possible confounders. Statistically significant was declared at a 95% confidence interval when variable with a p-value less than 0.05 in the multivariate analysis with premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Results

The magnitude of premenstrual dysphoric disorder in this study was 62.6% (95% CI 57.4–67.5). Having severe premenstrual pain (AOR = 6.44;95%CI 1.02–40.73), having irregular menstrual cycle (AOR = 2.21; 95% CI 1.32–3.70), students who had poor social support (AOR = 5.10;95%CI, (2.76–12.92) and moderate social support (AOR = 4.93;95%CI (2.18–11.18), and students who used contraception (AOR = 3.76;95%CI, 2.21-6,40) were statistically significant factors with the outcome variable.

Conclusion

The prevalence of premenstrual dysphoric disorder was high as compared to other studies. There was a strong link between irregular menstrual cycle, severe menstrual pain (severe dysmenorrhea), poor social support, and contraception use with premenstrual dysphoric disorder. This needs early screening and intervention to prevent the complications and worsening of the symptoms that affect students’ academic performance by the institution.
Machine learning algorithms using national registry data to predict loss to follow-up during tuberculosis treatment
Authors: Rodrigues Moreno M. S. , Barreto-Duarte Beatriz , Vinhaes Caian L. , Araújo-Pereira Mariana , Fukutani Eduardo R. , Bergamaschi Keityane Bone , Kristki Afrânio , Cordeiro-Santos Marcelo , Rolla Valeria C. , Sterling Timothy R. , Queiroz Artur T. L. , Andrade Bruno B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Identifying patients at increased risk of loss to follow-up (LTFU) is key to developing strategies to optimize the clinical management of tuberculosis (TB). The use of national registry data in prediction models may be a useful tool to inform healthcare workers about risk of LTFU. Here we developed a score to predict the risk of LTFU during anti-TB treatment (ATT) in a nationwide cohort of cases using clinical data reported to the Brazilian Notifiable Disease Information System (SINAN).

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of all TB cases reported to SINAN between 2015 and 2022; excluding children (< 18 years-old), vulnerable groups or drug-resistant TB. For the score, data before treatment initiation were used. We trained and internally validated three different prediction scoring systems, based on Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and Light Gradient Boosting. Before applying our models we splitted our data into training (~ 80% data) and test (~ 20%) sets, and then compared the model metrics using the test data set.

Results

Of the 243,726 cases included, 41,373 experienced LTFU whereas 202,353 were successfully treated. The groups were different with regards to several clinical and sociodemographic characteristics. The directly observed treatment (DOT) was unbalanced between the groups with lower prevalence in those who were LTFU. Three models were developed to predict LTFU using 8 features (prior TB, drug use, age, sex, HIV infection and schooling level) with different score composition approaches. Those prediction scoring systems exhibited an area under the curve (AUC) ranging between 0.71 and 0.72. The Light Gradient Boosting technique resulted in the best prediction performance, weighting specificity and sensitivity. A user-friendly web calculator app was developed (https://tbprediction.herokuapp.com/) to facilitate implementation.

Conclusions

Our nationwide risk score predicts the risk of LTFU during ATT in Brazilian adults prior to treatment commencement utilizing schooling level, sex, age, prior TB status, and substance use (drug, alcohol, and/or tobacco). This is a potential tool to assist in decision-making strategies to guide resource allocation, DOT indications, and improve TB treatment adherence.
Public perspectives on COVID-19 public health and social measures in Japan and the United Kingdom: a qualitative study
Authors: Kawamitsu Saki , Win Tin Zar , Han Su Myat , Nakamura Tomoka , Jogie Melissa , Smith Chris
Published: May 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, was one of the greatest modern public health crises that the world has faced. Countries undertook sweeping public health and social measures (PHSM); including environmental actions such as disinfection and ventilation; surveillance and response, such as contact tracing and quarantine; physical, such as crowd control; and restrictions on travel. This study focuses on the public perceptions of PHSM in two countries, Japan and the United Kingdom (UK) as examples of high-income countries that adopted different measures over the course of the pandemic.

Methods

This study was conducted between November 2021 and February 2022, a period in which the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 was predominant. Fourteen online focus group discussions were conducted in each country. Overall, 106 total participants (50 from the UK and 56 from Japan) participated in 23 focus groups (11 in the UK and 12 in Japan) with an average of three to six participants per group. Both countries were compared using a thematic analysis method.

Results

Both countries’ participants agreed that vaccination was an effective measure. However, they did not favor mandatory vaccination policies. Working from home was well accepted by both sides, but they reported that schools should have continued to be opened as before COVID-19. Both sides of participants expressed that temperature testing alone in indoor facilities was ineffective as a COVID-19 control measure. There were contrasting views on face covering rules in public spaces, international and domestic movement restrictions. High acceptance of mask-wearing was reflective of Japanese customs, while it was accepted as a strong recommendation for participants in the UK. Japanese participants favored quarantine for international travel, while the UK participants supported banning non-essential travel.

Conclusion

Similar and contrasting views on PHSM against COVID-19 between Japan and the UK demonstrated how policies in controlling an epidemic should be tailored by country with respect to its norms, cultures, economic and disease burden. Our findings may guide how policy makers can engage with the public through effective health communication and consider regulations that are aligned with the public’s views and capacities in changing their behavior for future pandemic preparedness.
Socio-demographic predictors of not having private dental insurance coverage: machine-learning algorithms may help identify the disadvantaged
Authors: Duvvuri Venkata R. , Abdelrehim Mona , Singhal Sonica
Published: May 2024

Background

For accessing dental care in Canada, approximately 62% of the population has employment-based insurance, 6% have some publicly funded coverage, and 32% have to pay out-of pocket. Those with no insurance or public coverage find dental care more unaffordable compared to those with private insurance. To support the development of more comprehensive publicly funded dental care programs, it is important to understand the socio-demographic attributes of all those, who find dental care unaffordable.

Methods

This study is a secondary analysis of the data collected from Ontarians during the latest available cycle of the Canadian Community Health Survey (2017-18), a cross-sectional survey that collects information on health status, health care utilization, and health determinants for the Canadian population. First, bivariate analysis was conducted to determine the characteristics of Ontarians who lack dental insurance. Afterwards, we employed machine learning (ML) to analyze data and identify risk indicators for not having private dental insurance. Specifically, we trained several supervised ML models and utilized Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) to determine the relative feature importance for not having private dental insurance from the best ML model [the gradient boosting (GBM)].

Results

Approximately one-third of Ontarians do not have private insurance coverage for dental care. Individuals with an income below $20,000, those unemployed or working part-time, seniors aged above 70, and those unable to afford to have their own housing are more at risk of not having private dental insurance, leading to financial barriers in accessing dental care.

Conclusion

In the future, government-funded programs can incorporate these identified risk indicators when determining eligible populations for publicly funded dental programs. Understanding these attributes is critical for developing targeted and effective interventions, ensuring equitable access to dental care for Canadians.
The effect of replacing sedentary behavior with different intensities of physical activity on depression and anxiety in Chinese university students: an isotemporal substitution model
Authors: Zhou Yulan , Huang Zan , Liu Yanjie , Liu Dongao
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous research has suggested that engaging in regular physical activity (PA) can help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in university students. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the impact of reducing sedentary behavior (SB) and increasing light-intensity PA (LPA) on these symptoms. This study aims to address this gap by using isotemporal substitution (IS) models to explore how substituting SB with LPA or moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) affects depression and anxiety symptoms among university students.

Methods

The study recruited 318 university students with a mean age of 21.13 years. Accelerometers were used to objectively measure the time spent on SB, LPA, and MVPA, while depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). IS models using multivariable linear regression were employed to estimate the associations between different behaviors and depression and anxiety symptoms when 30 min of one behavior was substituted with another.

Results

In the single-activity model, less SB (β = 0.321, 95% CI: 0.089, 1.297) and more MVPA (β = −0.142, 95% CI: −1.496, − 0.071) were found to be significantly and negatively associated with depression scores, while less SB (β = 0.343, 95% CI: 0.057, 1.014), LPA (β = 0.132, 95% CI: 0.049, 1.023), and more MVPA (β = −0.077, 95% CI: −1.446, − 0.052) were significantly and negatively correlated with anxiety scores. The IS analysis revealed that substituting 30 min of SB with LPA (β = −0.202, 95% CI: −1.371, − 0.146) or MVPA (β = −0.308, 95% CI: −0.970, − 0.073) was associated with improvements in depressive symptoms. Substituting 30 min of SB with MVPA (β = −0.147, 95% CI: −1.863, − 0.034) was associated with reduced anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion

Replacing 30 min of SB with MVPA may alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms in university students. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of PA interventions on the mental health disorders of this population.
Machine learning classifier is associated with mortality in interstitial lung disease: a retrospective validation study leveraging registry data
Authors: Selvan Kavitha C. , Reicher Joshua , Muelly Michael , Kalra Angad , Adegunsoye Ayodeji
Published: May 2024

Background

Mortality prediction in interstitial lung disease (ILD) poses a significant challenge to clinicians due to heterogeneity across disease subtypes. Currently, forced vital capacity (FVC) and Gender, Age, and Physiology (GAP) score are the two most utilized metrics in prognostication. Recently, a machine learning classifier system, Fibresolve, designed to identify a variety of computed tomography (CT) patterns associated with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), was demonstrated to have a significant association with mortality across multiple subtypes of ILD. The purpose of this follow-up study was to retrospectively validate these findings in a large, external cohort of patients with ILD.

Methods

In this multi-center validation study, Fibresolve was applied to chest CT scans of patients with confirmed ILD that had available follow-up data. Fibresolve scores categorized by tertile were analyzed using Cox regression analysis adjusted for tobacco use and modified GAP (mGAP) score.

Results

Of 643 patients included, 446 (69.3%) died over a median follow-up time of 144 [1-821] weeks. The median [range] mGAP score was 5 [3–7]. In multivariable analysis, Fibresolve score categorized by tertile was significantly associated with mortality (Tertile 2 HR 1.47, 95% CI 0.82–2.37, p = 0.11; Tertile 3 HR 3.12, 95% CI 1.98–4.90, p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed significant associations amongst those with non-IPF ILDs (Tertile 2 HR 1.95, 95% CI 1.28–2.97, Tertile 3 HR 4.66, 95% CI 2.94–7.38) and severe disease, defined by a FVC ≤ 75% (Tertile 2 HR 2.29, 95% CI 1.43–3.67, Tertile 3 HR 4.80, 95% CI 2.93–7.86).

Conclusions

Fibresolve is independently associated with mortality in ILD, particularly amongst patients with non-IPF ILDs and in those with severe disease.
All-suture anchor size and drill angle influence load to failure in a porcine model of subpectoral biceps tenodesis, a biomechanical study
Authors: Alt Prisca S. , Marx Christian , Braun Sepp
Published: May 2024

Background

Tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon is frequently performed in shoulder surgery, and all-suture anchors have become more popular as fixation methods. However, uncertainty still exists regarding the ultimate load to failure of all-suture anchors and the best insertion angle at a cortical humeral insertion point.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the biomechanical characteristics of three types of all-suture anchors frequently used for biceps tenodesis. In addition, the influence of two different insertion angles was observed in a porcine humeri model.

Methods

The ultimate load to failure and failure mode of three types of all-suture anchors (1.6 FiberTak®, 1.9 FiberTak®, 2.6 FiberTak®, Arthrex®) applicable for subpectoral biceps tenodesis were evaluated at 90° and 45° insertion angles in 12 fresh-frozen porcine humeri. The anchors were inserted equally alternated in a randomized manner at three different insertion sites along the bicipital groove, and the suture tapes were knotted around a rod for pullout testing. In total, 36 anchors were evaluated in a universal testing machine (Zwick & Roell).

Results

The 2.6 FiberTak® shows higher ultimate loads to failure with a 90° insertion angle (944.0 N ± 169.7 N; 537.0 N ± 308.8 N) compared to the 1.9 FiberTak® (677.8 N ± 57.7 N; 426.3 N ± 167.0 N, p-value: 0.0080) and 1.6 FiberTak® (733.0 N ± 67.6 N; 450.0 N ± 155.8 N, p-value: 0.0018). All anchor types show significantly higher ultimate loads to failure and smaller standard deviations at the 90° insertion angle than at the 45° insertion angle. The major failure mode was anchor pullout. Only the 2.6 FiberTak® anchors showed suture breakage as the major failure mode when placed with a 90° insertion angle.

Conclusions

All three all-suture anchors are suitable fixation methods for subpectoral biceps tenodesis. Regarding our data, we recommend 90° as the optimum insertion angle.

Clinical relevance

The influence of anchor size and insertion angle of an all-suture anchor should be known by the surgeon for optimizing ultimate loads to failure and for achieving a secure fixation.
Does dynamic navigation assisted student training improve the accuracy of dental implant placement by postgraduate dental students: an in vitro study
Authors: Yan Qi , Wu Xinyu , Shi Junyu , Shi Bin
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To assess the accuracy of implant placement in models and satisfaction in dynamic navigation assisted postgraduate dental students training.

Methods

Postgraduate dental students who had at least one year of dental clinical practice with no experience in dental implant surgeries were included. Students were instructed to make treatment plans in the dynamic navigation system. Each student placed two maxillary right incisors, using freehand approach at first and then under dynamic navigation. The implant position was compared with treatment plan. Factors influencing the accuracy of implants placed under dynamic navigation were analyzed. Student acceptance towards the training and use of dynamic navigation was recorded using a questionnaire.

Results

A total of 21 students placed 42 implants. For freehand implant placement, the median entry point deviation, apex point deviation, and implant axis deviation was 3.79 mm, 4.32 mm, and 10.08°. For dynamic guided implant placement, the median entry point deviation, apex point deviation, and implant axis deviation was 1.29 mm, 1.25 mm, and 4.89° (p < 0.001). The accuracy of dynamic guided implant was not influenced by student gender or familiarity with computer games. All students were satisfied with the training.

Conclusions

Dynamic navigation system assisted students in improving the accuracy of implant placement and was well accepted by students.