bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidants and the risk of sleep disorders: results from NHANES and two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jiang Junjie , Li Dong , Huang Tao , Huang Shan , Tan Hanyu , Xia Zhongfang
Published: October 2024

Background

Sleep disorders have emerged as a major public health concern. Observational research indicates that antioxidants might mitigate the risk of sleep disturbances, yet the causal relationship remains uncertain.

Materials and methods

This study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2007 to 2018, focusing on adults who reported sleep disorders. The analysis included 25,178 American adults. We examined the association between the Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and the prevalence of sleep disorders. Additionally, a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis was conducted to explore the potential causal link between CDAI and the risk of sleep disorders.

Results

Analysis of data from the 2007–2018 NHANES survey revealed a significant negative association between CDAI and sleep disorders (OR = 0.854, 95% CI 0.821–0.888, P < 0.001). A multivariable logistic regression model showed that each unit increase in CDAI corresponded to a 14.6% reduction in sleep disorder risk, exhibiting a nonlinear trend where the risk decreased until reaching the inflection point of −0.134. Additionally, MR analysis demonstrated that genetically determined selenium reduces the risk of OSA (OR = 0.992, 95% CI 0.860–0.989, P = 0.023). Furthermore, vitamin E (γ-tocopherol) and vitamin C were protective against sleep-wake disorders (OR = 0.016, 95% CI 0.001–0.674, P = 0.03) and (OR = 0.049, 95% CI 0.007–0.346, P = 0.002), respectively.

Conclusion

Dietary antioxidants may help prevent sleep disorders. However, further studies are required to clarify the pathways through which antioxidants exert this protective effect.
The ins and outs of errors in oncology imaging: the DAC framework for radiologists
Authors: Iannessi Antoine , Beaumont Hubert , Aguillera Carlos , Nicol Francois , Bertrand Anne-Sophie
Published: October 2024

With the increasingly central role of imaging in medical diagnosis, understanding and monitoring radiological errors has become essential. In the field of oncology, the severity of the disease makes radiological error more visible, with both individual consequences and public health issues. The quantitative trend radiology allows to consider the diagnostic task as a problem of classification supported by the latest neurocognitive theories in explaining decision making errors, this purposeful model provides an actionable framework to support root cause analysis of diagnostic errors in radiology and envision corresponding risk-management strategies. The D for Data, A for Analysis and C for Communication are the three drivers of errors and we propose a practical toolbox for our colleagues to prevent individual and systemic sources of error.
Development and validation of a simulation training platform for the ligation of deep dorsal vein complex in radical prostatectomy
Authors: Chen Yu , Tan Qi , Zhu Jingzhen , Zhou Luqiang , Li Siyue , Zheng Ji
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to design a low-cost, simulation training platform for the ligation of deep dorsal vein (DVC) complex in radical prostatectomy and validate its training effectiveness.

Methods

A simplified prostate urethra model was produced by 0-degree silica gel and pulse pressure banding. This model was placed on a slope of about 30 degrees using cardboard to thus creating a narrow environment of the pelvis. The DVC ligation was performed by a 2D laparoscopy simulator. A total of 27 participants completed the study include 13 novices, 10 surgical residents and 4 urology experts. The novices were trained five trails with 24 hours interval, the residents and experts completed the DVC ligation once. The construct validity of this simulation training platform was performed by completing time, the GOALS (Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills) and TSA (i.e. Task Specific Assessments) score. The face validity and content validity were performed by a specific closed-ended questionnaire.

Results

There was no significant difference among three groups in demographic or psychometric variables (p > 0.05). Compared to the novices, the residents spend a shorter time to complete the DVC ligation (p < 0.05) and had higher GOALS scores (p < 0.05), but had no significant difference in TSA scores (p > 0.05). Additionally, the experts groups had a better performance compared to residents group in the completing time (p < 0.05), GOALS score (p < 0.05) and TSA score (p < 0.05). The learning curve of novices significantly promoted along with the increased times of training. Almost 90 percent of subjects considered that this simulator had a good performance in the realism and practicability.

Conclusion

We developed a novel low-cost a simulation training platform for the ligation of deep dorsal vein complex in radical prostatectomy, and this simulator had a good performance in the construct validity, face validity and content validity.
WWOX-related epileptic encephalopathy caused by a novel mutation in the WWOX gene: a case report
Authors: Feng Dan , Li Ye , Zhang Ya-Ting , Song Yan-Jun , Qin Dong-Yuan , Wang Fan
Published: October 2024

Background

WWOX-related epileptic encephalopathy is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the WW-containing oxidoreductase gene, characterized by the onset of refractory seizures in infants. Early-onset epilepsy, electroencephalography abnormalities, and developmental delay or degeneration are the main clinical manifestations. Early death can occur in severe cases. In the present study, a novel variant in WWOX was detected in a patient with epilepsy and his healthy parents.

Case presentation

A 5-month-old boy presented with epilepsy. The main manifestations were intractable seizures, mental and motor retardation and hearing impairment. Subsequent genetic testing revealed the presence of an epilepsy-associated novel mutation: c.991C>A (amino acid change: p.Ser304Tyr) in the WWOX gene. Variants were inherited from parents with healthy phenotypes. Finally, a patient died at 6 months of age.

Conclusion

The discovery of novel variants has enriched the existing database of WWOX gene variants and may expand the range of clinical options for treating WWOX-related disorders.
Exploring potential targets for natural product therapy of DN: the role of SUMOylation
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Zhang Rui , Wu Chenguang , Wang Lifan , Liu Peng , Li Ping
Published: October 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a common and serious micro-vascular complication of diabetes and a leading cause of end-stage renal disease globally. This disease primarily affects middle-aged and elderly individuals, especially those with a diabetes history of over 10 years and poor long-term blood glucose control. Small ubiquitin-related modifiers (SUMOs) are a group of reversible post-translational modifications of proteins that are widely expressed in eukaryotes. SUMO proteins intervene in the progression of DN by modulating various signaling cascades, such as Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress, NF-κB, TGF-β, and MAPK pathways. Recent advancements indicate that natural products regulating SUMOylation hold promise as targets for intervening in DN. In a previous article published in 2022, we reviewed the mechanisms by which SUMOylation intervenes in renal fibrosis and presented a summary of some natural products with therapeutic potential. Therefore, this paper will focus on DN. The aim of this review is to elucidate the mechanism of action of SUMOylation in DN and related natural products with therapeutic potential, thereby summarising the targets and candidate natural products for the treatment of DN through the modulation of SUMOylation, such as ginkgolic acid, ginkgolide B, resveratrol, astragaloside IV, etc., and highlighting that natural product-mediated modulation of SUMOylation is a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of DN as a potential therapeutic strategy.
Single-cell profiling of cellular changes in the somatic peripheral nerves following nerve injury
Authors: Zhao Li , Jiang Chunyi , Yu Bin , Zhu Jianwei , Sun Yuyu , Yi Sheng
Published: October 2024

Injury to the peripheral nervous system disconnects targets to the central nervous system, disrupts signal transmission, and results in functional disability. Although surgical and therapeutic treatments improve nerve regeneration, it is generally hard to achieve fully functional recovery after severe peripheral nerve injury. A better understanding of pathological changes after peripheral nerve injury helps the development of promising treatments for nerve regeneration. Single-cell analyses of the peripheral nervous system under physiological and injury conditions define the diversity of cells in peripheral nerves and reveal cell-specific injury responses. Herein, we review recent findings on the single-cell transcriptome status in the dorsal root ganglia and peripheral nerves following peripheral nerve injury, identify the cell heterogeneity of peripheral nerves, and delineate changes in injured peripheral nerves, especially molecular changes in neurons, glial cells, and immune cells. Cell-cell interactions in peripheral nerves are also characterized based on ligand-receptor pairs from coordinated gene expressions. The understanding of cellular changes following peripheral nerve injury at a single-cell resolution offers a comprehensive and insightful view for the peripheral nerve repair process, provides an important basis for the exploration of the key regulators of neuronal growth and microenvironment reconstruction, and benefits the development of novel therapeutic drugs for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury.
The baseline hemoglobin level is a positive biomarker for immunotherapy response and can improve the predictability of tumor mutation burden for immunotherapy response in cancer
Authors: He Yin , Ren Tong , Ji Chengfei , Zhao Li , Wang Xiaosheng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Because only a subset of cancer patients can benefit from immunotherapy, identifying predictive biomarkers of ICI therapy response is of utmost importance.

Methods

We analyzed the association between hemoglobin (HGB) levels and clinical outcomes in 1,479 ICIs-treated patients across 16 cancer types. We explored the dose-dependent associations between HGB levels and survival and immunotherapy response using the spline-based cox regression analysis. Furthermore, we investigated the associations across subgroups of patients with different clinicopathological characteristics, treatment programs and cancer types using the bootstrap resampling method.

Results

HGB levels correlated positively with clinical outcomes in cancer patients receiving immunotherapy but not in those without immunotherapy. Moreover, this association was independent of other clinicopathological characteristics (such as sex, age, tumor stage and tumor mutation burden (TMB)), treatment program and cancer type. Also, this association was independent of the established biomarkers of immunotherapy response, including TMB, PD-L1 expression and microsatellite instability. The combination of TMB and HGB level are more powerful in predicting immunotherapy response than TMB alone. Multi-omics analysis showed that HGB levels correlated positively with antitumor immune signatures and negatively with tumor properties directing antitumor immunosuppression, such as homologous recombination defect, stemness and intratumor heterogeneity.

Conclusion

The HGB measure has the potential clinical value as a novel biomarker of immunotherapy response that is easily accessible from clinically routine examination. The combination of TMB and HGB measures have better predictive performance for immunotherapy response than TMB.
Isoflurane-lipid emulsion injection as an anticonvulsant and neuroprotectant treatment for nerve agent exposure
Authors: Krishnan Jishnu K. S. , Moffett John R. , Puthillathu Narayanan , Johnson Erik A. , Namboodiri Aryan M.
Published: October 2024

We have shown that briefly inhaled isoflurane rapidly halts convulsions and protects the central nervous system (CNS) from organophosphate-induced neuronal loss when administered at 5% for 5 min, even as late as 1 h after organophosphate exposure. In the current study we investigated if an injectable form of isoflurane was as effective as inhaled isoflurane. We used a mixture of 10% isoflurane dissolved in an IV-compatible lipid-water emulsion for intravenous administration. Rats with an implanted jugular vein cannula were infused with 1,000 μL of the 10% isoflurane-lipid emulsion (ILE) mixture at a rate of 200 μL per minute, which achieved full anesthesia lasting approximately 10 min. When administered 30 min after a highly lethal dose of the organophosphate insecticide paraoxon (POX), the short-duration administration halted convulsions over the course of the study and prevented the great majority of neuronal loss as shown by Fluoro-Jade B staining (FJB). Our results indicate that injectable isoflurane is very effective for treating organophosphate poisoning, negating the need for vaporizer equipment and enabling intravenous therapy.
Targeting exercise-related genes and placental growth factor for therapeutic development in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shi Qingyuan , Ying Haiyue , Weng Weibin
Published: October 2024

Background

Human cancers, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), are complex and heterogeneous diseases driven by uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins play a crucial role in cancer progression, making them a promising target for pharmacological intervention. This study aims to identify key exercise-related genes with prognostic value in HNSCC through comprehensive bioinformatics analysis, with a particular focus on the therapeutic potential of placental growth factor (PIGF).

Methods

Transcriptome data for HNSCC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Differently expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and analyzed for their prognostic significance. Exercise-related gene sets were retrieved from the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) database. Functional enrichment analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and GSEA, were conducted. The biological functions and clinical implications of key genes were further explored through single-gene expression analysis, immune infiltration analysis, and in vitro cellular experiments.

Results

The study identified exercise-related genes associated with survival prognosis in HNSCC. GO and KEGG pathway analyses highlighted the biological functions of these genes, and Kaplan-Meier survival curves confirmed their prognostic value. PIGF expression analysis using TCGA data showed its diagnostic potential, with higher expression linked to advanced tumor stages. Single-cell sequencing revealed PIGF’s role in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro experiments demonstrated that PIGF plays a pivotal role in enhancing cell proliferation and colony formation in HNSCC, with PIGF knockdown significantly impairing these functions, highlighting its importance in tumor growth regulation. Additionally, PIGF’s predictive performance in drug sensitivity across cancer datasets suggests its potential as a pharmacological target, offering opportunities to modulate the immune microenvironment and improve therapeutic outcomes in cancer treatment.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying HNSCC and identifies exercise-related genes, particularly PIGF, as promising biomarkers for clinical treatment and personalized medicine. By focusing on PTMs and their role in cancer progression, our findings suggest that targeting PIGF may offer innovative therapeutic strategies.
Voters’ perceptions of the policy making and performance of the elected government after 2018 general election in Pakistan
Authors: Ashraf Mujeeba , Tahir Muzamal
Published: October 2024

In this study, the phenomenological approach was used to explore the perceptions of Pakistan Tahreek Insaf (PTI) voters regarding PTI policy making and performance six months after the Pakistani general election of 2018 (GE-2018). The sample comprised 20 PTI voters, and data was collected through one-to-one interview. The thematic analysis led to the following broad and sub themes: The first broad theme, pre-election party ideology, was described by the following sub-themes: vision of change, fight against corruption, and developing Pakistan along the lines of the State of Medina. The second broad theme, the performance of the elected government, was understood through the following sub-themes: accountability, political stability, poor policy making, and false election pledges. And the last broad theme, the public’s perceptions of the future performance of the elected government can be explained by its single sub-theme, i.e., giving the elected government a chance to complete its tenure of five years. It can be concluded that most of the participants were optimistic that the elected government of Pakistan would fulfill its pre-election promises.
An analysis of ideational foundations of Morocco's integration into ECOWAS
Authors: Suleiman Muhammad Reza , Slighoua Mounia , Haddad Abderrahmane
Published: October 2024

This article examines the impact of ideational elements on state efforts to achieve regional integration, with a specific focus on Morocco's pursuit of membership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This study investigates how shared cultural heritage, historical narratives, and common views on principles such as free trade and security partnerships foster a sense of collective identity among states, thereby promoting deeper cooperation and integration within regions. However, conflicting ideologies can create obstacles to meaningful integration by breeding distrust and friction among participating states. This study argues that constructivism provides valuable insights into regional integration processes by emphasizing the importance of shared norms, identities, and social interactions among states. The analysis reveals that Morocco's aspiration to align with the interests of other African states in ECOWAS and promote economic integration serves as the ideological basis for its pursuit of ECOWAS membership, viewing it as a symbol of African resurgence and a means to strengthen its regional position. Although Morocco's history, laws, society, and politics align with ECOWAS norms, the absence of provisions for new members in the ECOWAS Treaty presents a hurdle for Moroccan accession. Nevertheless, this article suggests that the ECOWAS Authority of the Heads of State and Government could potentially address this issue by establishing a supplementary protocol to admit Morocco, underscoring the significance of ideological factors in shaping regional integration processes and institutions.
Digital technology and psychological happiness: the mediating roles of interpersonal relationships and employment situations
Authors: Hu Wenxin , Zhang Ziwen , Qu Xinyue , Mao Yufei
Published: October 2024

Psychological happiness represents the ultimate pursuit of human beings, and the impact of digital technology on psychological happiness is becoming increasingly significant in the era of the digital economy. Based on data from 2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), this study constructs an empirical model that examines the effect and mechanism of digital technology on happiness. Additionally, this study investigates the heterogeneity and robustness of the impact of digital technology on happiness. The research conclusions are as follows: Firstly, digital technology can promote psychological happiness. When controlling for other factors, the marginal effect coefficient of digital technology is 0.031. Secondly, the effect of digital technology on personal happiness varies among different groups, particularly among women, young individuals, primary and college graduates, and rural residents. Furthermore, as absolute income increases, the happiness effect of digital technology diminishes. Thirdly, in terms of the influencing mechanism, digital technology indirectly affects individual happiness by influencing health status, interpersonal relationships, employment situations and income levels. Specifically, digital technology negatively impacts personal health, interpersonal relationships, and agricultural work, while positively impacting family relationships, non-agricultural employment, absolute income and relative income. Digital technology affects happiness through these channels indirectly. Based on the study results, it is proposed that efforts should be made to enhance the development of digital technology infrastructure in remote rural areas, reduce the financial burden associated with digital technology, and promote the digital technology ecosystem. Moreover, providing online services, such as e-commerce, travel reservations, and digital financial management, can improve access to digital technology in rural areas and contribute to increased happiness levels. Simultaneously, there is a need to strengthen digital skills training, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and rural residents, to improve their proficiency in digital technologies. This can be achieved through the integration of additional educational resources, thereby facilitating cost-free digital technology training and guidance. Meanwhile, it is essential to vigorously develop the new economy and innovative employment models, create job opportunities, foster entrepreneurial prospects, and improve income levels to enhance individual well-being.
Towards international collaboration of clinical research networks for EMDR: the EMDR Pain Network Germany
Authors: Vock S. , Hofmann A. , Lehnung M. , Böhm K. , Wieland S. , Seidler G. H. , Beiner E. , Hermes M. , Friederich H.-C. , Eich W. , Tesarz J.
Published: October 2024

Background

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based treatment, primarily established for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While it is increasingly being applied to chronic pain, its efficacy in this area is not yet supported by the same level of evidence as that which exists for PTSD. Studies in this area often show heterogeneous results with small case numbers, and the potential side effects of EMDR in the treatment of chronic pain are not well understood. Systematic documentation of treatment effects, potential predictors of treatment response and non-response, and side effects is crucial for progress in this field.

Aim

The primary aim is to establish a research framework to systematically investigate the delivery of EMDR therapies by outpatient clinicians in the field of pain. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of treatment outcomes, side effects and determinants of treatment effectiveness, whether positive response or non-response.

Methods

This framework will oversee the documentation and evaluation of EMDR interventions delivered in outpatient settings using an Embedded Continuous Cumulative Evaluation Design (ECCED). It will focus on detailed characterisation of positive and negative therapeutic effects. It will also identify and analyse prognostic factors that influence individual variability in response to treatment. Treatment materials, standardised assessments and an intervision platform for regular exchange will be provided.

Discussion

The establishment of the EMDR Pain Network Germany and an interdisciplinary scientific-clinical platform is essential to promote clinical exchange and understanding of the effects of EMDR in pain therapy. This platform offers standardised treatment protocols, an online data collection system with anonymised data, comprehensive baseline assessments and an intervision platform for regular exchange. The knowledge gained is intended to personalise future therapies and serve as a basis for large randomised clinical trials.
From obligation to action: unraveling the roles of social responsibility and prosocial tendency in shaping Chinese doctors’ vaccine hesitancy
Authors: Li Xikun , Zhang Yuwei , Li Xinyang , Guo Botang
Published: October 2024

Background

The hesitation of healthcare professionals towards vaccines is becoming increasingly concerning, potentially undermining public confidence in vaccination programs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between social responsibility, Prosocial tendency, and vaccine hesitancy among Chinese doctors, and to identify demographic factors associated with vaccine hesitancy.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 976 Chinese doctors. Participants completed a questionnaire to assess their sense of social responsibility, Prosocial tendency, and vaccine hesitancy. Demographic information, including age, gender, and marital status, was also collected. Correlation and mediation analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between the main variables.

Results

Social responsibility was negatively correlated with vaccine hesitancy (r=-0.564, P<0.01) and positively correlated with Prosocial tendency (r=0.519, P<0.01). Prosocial tendency was negatively correlated with vaccine hesitancy (r=-0.505, P<0.01) and partially mediated the relationship between social responsibility and vaccine hesitancy. Younger age, female gender, and unmarried status were associated with higher levels of vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusion

This study emphasized the important role of social responsibility and Prosocial tendency in reducing vaccine hesitancy among Chinese doctors. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at fostering a strong sense of social responsibility and promoting Prosocial tendency may effectively address vaccine hesitancy in this population. Additionally, targeted interventions focusing on young, female, and unmarried doctors may be necessary.
Effects of household solid fuel use on sarcopenia in middle-aged and older adults: evidence from a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Su Shaohui , Zhou Yinuo , Wang Kerui , Liu Aonan , Lei Lei , Ma Hao , Yang Yanfang
Published: October 2024

Background

Household solid fuel use is common in global households and has been linked to changes in handgrip strength and muscle mass. However, whether household solid fuel use results in sarcopenia over time is not well elaborated.

Methods

This study employed data from the 2011–2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) that recruited 4,932 participants ≥45 years. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was conducted to estimate the impact of household solid fuel use for cooking and heating on sarcopenia development. The analysis was further stratified based on geographic position. Mediation analysis was employed to estimate the potential mediating effects of cognitive function and depressive symptoms associated with household solid fuel use and sarcopenia.

Results

Over the 4-year follow-up, 476 cases of sarcopenia were reported (9.65%), with 254 in males (10.82%) and 222 in females (8.59%). Cooking and heating with solid fuels increased the risk of sarcopenia (Cooking: HR 1.401, 95% CI 1.138–1.724; Heating: HR 1.278, 95% CI 1.040–1.571). Crop residue/wood burning correlated with higher sarcopenia risk (Cooking: 1.420, 95% CI 1.147–1.758; Heating: 1.318, 95% CI 1.062–1.635). Switching to clean cooking fuels significantly reduced sarcopenia risk (HR 0.766, 95% CI 0.599–0.979). Heating with solid fuels was associated with higher sarcopenia risk only in southern China (HR 1.375, 95% CI 1.102–1.715). Additionally, cognitive function and depressive symptoms partially mediated the link between household solid fuel use and sarcopenia.

Conclusion

Household use of solid fuels is associated with an increased risk of sarcopenia. Restricting the use of solid fuels and focusing on cognitive function and depressive symptoms in solid fuel users can help decrease sarcopenia development.
Exploring organizational aspects that promote health-related preventive behavior: using the example of work-related SARS-CoV-2 infection control measures in Germany, August 2020 to November 2021
Authors: Soeder Jana , Wagner Anke , Neunhöffer Anna T. , Martus Peter , Papenfuss Falko , Wittich Andrea , Schwille-Kiuntke Juliane , Rind Esther , Rieger Monika A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

During the communicable coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, organizational infection control measures (oICMs) were introduced in the workplace. The employees’ positive attitudes and active participation are relevant for full effectiveness regarding disease prevention. Therefore, we explore changes in employees’ attitudes toward oICM at work from August–October 2020 (T0) over January 2021 (T1) to October–November 2021 (T2). We further investigate the role an organization can play in supporting health-related preventive behavior.

Methods

We considered repeated cross-sectional and longitudinal panel survey data from 5,554 employees of a global supplier of technology and services in Germany. A total of 16 items constitute the attitude scores toward oICM (5-point Likert scale). Via mixed-effect model, aspects associated with employees’ attitudes toward oICM were explored. Via ‘extreme-group’ approach, we compared the 20% of participants with the largest changes into less favorable to the 20% with the largest changes into more favorable attitudes toward oICM over time.

Results

The overall positive attitudes toward work-related oICM were more favorable at T1 (mean ± SD: 4.2 ± 0.6, median (IQR): 4.3 (0.8), n = 2,515) compared to T0 (4.1 ± 0.6, 4.1 (0.8), n = 2,417) but less favorable at T2 (3.9 ± 0.7, 4.0 (0.9), n = 2,062). Among others, feeling well-informed about possible work-related risks of infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), perceived psychosocial demands through work environment aspects, and perceived management’s commitment to safety and health were associated with long-term positive attitudes toward oICM. Individuals developing more favorable attitudes toward oICM reported feeling well-informed about possible work-related SARS-CoV-2 infection risks and improved COVID-19-specific resilience over time. Individuals developing less favorable attitudes toward oICM reported decreased perceptions of COVID-19-associated risks.

Conclusion

oICMs in the workplace were perceived appropriate even after COVID-19 vaccines were widely available although the perceived affective risks about SARS-CoV-2 decreased. Taken together, our findings highlight how organizations can support employees in adopting health-related preventive behavior. Among others, we found that feeling well-informed about possible work-related health risks was positively associated with long-term favorable attitudes toward work-related oICM. We expect that the results contribute to the development of interventions to prepare and adapt to future global public health concerns.
Effectiveness of multidisciplinary interventions to improve blood culture efficiency and optimize antimicrobial utilization
Authors: Li Zihuan , Hu Keqi , Wang Tian , Liu Baohong , Zheng Wen , Zhou Jianqun , Fan Ting , Lin Maorui , Lin Guanwen , Li Sujuan , Fan Cuiqiong
Published: October 2024

Background

The low positive rate of blood cultures often leads to downstream consequences. We present a summary of multidisciplinary interventions implemented by a tertiary referral hospital to improve blood culture efficiency and optimize antimicrobial usage.

Methods

We evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital before and after intervention using a questionnaire. A multidisciplinary team was formed to implement the intervention, defining roles, standardizing procedures, continually improving education and feedback, and establishing incentive mechanisms. Regular quality control assessments are conducted on the responsible departments.

Results

Following the intervention, the median submission time for blood culture specimens was reduced from 2.2 h to 1.3 h (p < 0.001). Additionally, the intervention group showed significant (p < 0.05) increases in rates of positivity (9.9% vs. 8.6%), correct timing (98.7% vs. 89.6%), correct processing (98.1% vs. 92.3%), reduced contamination rates (0.9% vs. 1.4%), and disqualification rates (1.3% vs. 1.7%). The delivery rate of therapeutic antibacterial increased (16.1% vs. 15.2%), and the consumption of restrictive grade antimicrobial also significantly increased (26.7% vs. 22.9%). The intervention measures led to a substantial improvement in awareness and compliance with KAP of blood culture collection in the hospital. Hospital-wide antimicrobial usage deceased by 10.7% after intervention.

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary collaborative model proves effective in improving blood culture efficiency and optimizing antimicrobial usage.
How Green Space Justice in urban built-up areas affects public mental health: a moderated chain mediation model
Authors: Dong Tian , Zhong Qikang , Yue Bangguo
Published: October 2024

Background

Green and blue spaces, as crucial components of urban ecosystems, significantly impact the physical and mental health of residents. However, the mechanisms through which Green/Blue Space Justice influence residents’ health remain unclear.

Methods

This study aims to explore the impact of green spaces on public psychological responses, physical activity, and mental health from a justice perspective, and to examine the moderating role of blue spaces in this relationship. The research was conducted in selected communities within the Chang-Zhu-Tan urban agglomeration in Hunan Province, China. A total of 801 valid questionnaires were collected through field visits and online surveys. The study uses an improved Gaussian-based two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA) method to assess green space accessibility. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) and moderation effect analysis to reveal the relationships between variables.

Results

The findings indicate that Green Space Justice has a significant positive impact on psychological responses, physical activity, and mental health; psychological responses and physical activity play crucial mediating roles between Green Space Justice and mental health; and Green Space Justice significantly affects mental health through a chain mediation path involving psychological responses and physical activity. Moreover, Blue Space Justice significantly moderates the impact of Green Space Justice on psychological responses and physical activity, but does not have a significant direct impact on mental health.

Conclusion

This study enriches the theory of Green Space Justice by revealing the mechanisms through which it influences mental health via psychological responses and physical activity. It provides a scientific basis for the development of healthy cities. Additionally, it recommends that urban planning should prioritize the equitable distribution and high accessibility of both green and blue spaces to comprehensively enhance residents’ physical and mental well-being. Policymakers should consider prioritizing the accessibility of high-quality green spaces for vulnerable communities during urban renewal and expansion processes to reduce social health inequalities and promote broader public health outcomes.
Reassessing the non-linear causal link between long-duration commuting and self-rated health: do behavioral preferences and built environment matter?
Authors: Qiu Ning , Li Wen , Cui Danrui , Du Mengbing , Xing Zibo , Cui Dongxu , Xinyu Han
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Long-duration commuting is widely recognized for its significant influence on health. However, while research has traditionally focused on direct impacts, there remains a critical need to explore the nonlinear dynamics of this relationship. This study aims to deepen our understanding of how behavioral preferences and built environments contribute to these complex interactions.

Methods

This study was conducted in Jinan, China’s most congested city, using data from the “Jinan Residents Commuting Survey” of 1,755 participants aged 19 to 59. We applied Generalized Propensity Score Matching (GPSM) to explore the nonlinear effects of commuting time on self-rated health, adjusting for participants’ sociodemographic characteristics. Variables related to active commuting, physical activity, and perceived built environment were also examined for their potential moderating effects.

Results

Commuting for less than 21 minutes enhances health, but negative effects intensify and peak at 60 minutes. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that women and older adults, especially those with higher incomes, are more susceptible to long commutes, experiencing a delayed onset of adverse effects. While active commuting offers health benefits, it may exacerbate health issues if prolonged. Conversely, regular physical activity consistently improves health outcomes related to commuting. Additionally, factors like residential greenery and walkability help alleviate commuting-related stress, improving the overall commuting-health dynamic.

Discussion

This study clarifies the commuting-health relationship by identifying key time thresholds and the positive effects of active commuting and physical activity on mitigating longer commute impacts. The findings inform healthier commuting behaviors and offer practical guidelines for urban planning and policy-making to enhance commuter well-being.
Effect of forest cover on lung cancer incidence: a case study in Southwest China
Authors: Yu Haishi , Wang Yang , Huang Jinyu , Yue Xiaoli , Chu Jun , Sun Guiquan , Gao Han , Yang Min , Zhang Hong’ou
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Forests are closely linked to human health, particularly about lung cancer incidence. However, there is currently limited research on how forest coverage and different types of forests influence lung cancer rates. This study aims to address this gap by examining how the coverage of various forest types impacts lung cancer incidence in Southwest China, thereby providing theoretical support for health-oriented forest structure planning.

Methods

We focused on 438 counties in Southwest China, employing spatial autocorrelation analysis (Moran’s I) and spatial regression models [including Spatial Lag Model (SLM), Spatial Error Model (SEM), and Spatial Durbin Model (SDM)] to explore the effects of forest coverage and internal forest structure on lung cancer incidence. We used ArcGIS to visualize lung cancer incidence and forest coverage rates across the study area.

Results

The study found a significant negative correlation between forest coverage and lung cancer incidence. Specifically, for every 1% increase in forest coverage, lung cancer incidence decreased by 0.017 levels. Evergreen forests and mixed forests showed a significant negative impact on lung cancer rates, with evergreen forests having a particularly strong effect; a 1% increase in evergreen forest coverage was associated with a 0.027 level decrease in lung cancer incidence. In contrast, deciduous forests had no significant impact. Additionally, the study revealed a marked spatial heterogeneity in lung cancer incidence and forest coverage across Southwest China: higher lung cancer rates were observed in the eastern regions, while forest coverage was predominantly concentrated in the western and southern regions.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that increasing forest coverage, particularly of evergreen and mixed forests, can help reduce lung cancer incidence. This effect may be related to the ability of forests to absorb harmful gasses and particulate matter from the air. Furthermore, the spatial heterogeneity in lung cancer incidence suggests that regional economic development levels and urbanization processes may also play significant roles in the spatial distribution of lung cancer rates. The findings provide empirical support for the development of targeted forest conservation and development policies aimed at optimizing regional forest structures to reduce the risk of lung cancer.
The protective role of green spaces in mitigating myopia prevalence
Authors: Barnett-Itzhaki Guy , Barnett-Itzhaki Zohar , Mezad-Koursh Daphna
Published: October 2024

Near-sightedness, or myopia, is becoming more prevalent worldwide, but its etiopathogenesis is not fully understood. This review examines the potential protective role of green spaces in reducing myopia prevalence among children and adolescents, based on recent epidemiological studies from various countries. The studies consistently used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) to quantify green space exposure. The analysis reveals a significant inverse relationship between exposure to green space and the risk of developing myopia, across multiple studies. For example, a 0.1 increase in NDVI within various buffer zones around schools was associated with a 6.3–8.7% reduction in myopia prevalence. Higher residential greenness within a 100-meter buffer around homes was linked to a 38% reduction in the risk of developing myopia among preschool children. The protective effect was observed across different age groups, from preschoolers to high school students. Urban planning factors, such as the size, connectivity, and aggregation of green spaces, also influenced myopia risk. These findings suggest that increasing access to green spaces in urban environments may be an effective strategy for myopia prevention, with important implications for public health and urban planning policies.
MicroRNAs provide negative feedback and stability in gene regulatory network models of cell-state transitions
Authors: Razavi-Mohseni Milad , Beer Michael A.
Published: October 2024

The development of multicellular organisms occurs through a series of cell state transitions controlled by gene regulatory networks. Central to these networks are transcription factors (TFs) which bind enhancers and activate the expression of other genes, some of which are also TFs. Gene regulatory networks (GRN) connect TFs and enhancers in a nonlinear circuit capable of producing complex behavior such as bifurcations between stable cell states. Our dynamic network modelling of the Embryonic Stem Cell (ESC) to Definitive Endoderm (DE) transition requires an as yet unknown negative feedback mechanism for stability. Here, we show that cell state specific microRNAs (miRNAs) can provide this negative feedback by inactivating other cell lineage determining TFs (ESC or DE) during the transition. Our model provides a mechanism to maintain stable cell states without requiring a large set of cell-type-specific repressive TFs, of which there are fewer known examples than activators. In support of this model, we use computational models and analyze gene and miRNA expression and chromatin accessibility data from human cell lines to detect enhancers activating the miRNAs consistent with our network model. Our analysis highlights the interplay between TFs and miRNAs during ESC to DE transition and proposes a novel model for gene regulation.
Mapping optimal orthodontic implant sites in the palate using cone-beam computed tomography
Authors: Zhu Zhengxian , Zhong Lin , Zhao Yicheng , Wang Xiaoting , Qian Wenhao , Ye Niansong
Published: October 2024

Objective

To measure the palatal soft tissue thickness and cortical bone density to determine safe regions for the placement of orthodontic mini-implants and to examine the influence of sex and age on soft tissue thickness and cortical bone density.

Materials and methods

Cone-beam computed tomography images of 42 patients (22 males and 20 females), including 21 adults and 21 adolescents, were examined in this study. The palatal soft tissue thickness and cortical bone density were measured at the coronal planes between the premolars (P4–5), between the second premolars and first molars (P5–6), and between the first molars and second molars (P6–7).

Results

The thickness of the soft tissue revealed similar coronal planes, but the bone density varied. The mean thickness was 3.8 mm at 0°–60° and 1.5 mm at 60°–90°. P4–5 had the highest bone density (>600 HU), decreasing toward P6–7 (<600 HU). Bone density decreased from 90° to 0° coronally, whereas the soft tissue thickness increased. Age, sex, and their interaction affected bone and soft tissues.

Conclusions

In general, areas with a high bone density tended to have thin soft tissue coronally, thus the preferred implant site tends to be more anterior to the P4–5 plane and closer to 60°–90°. Considering individual variances, mapping of the recommended regions for palatal mini-implants is suggested.
Impact of deep learning-driven precipitation corrected data using near real-time satellite-based observations and model forecast in an integrated hydrological model
Authors: Patakchi Yousefi Kaveh , Belleflamme Alexandre , Goergen Klaus , Kollet Stefan
Published: October 2024

Integrated hydrological model (IHM) forecasts provide critical insights into hydrological system states, fluxes, and its evolution of water resources and associated risks, essential for many sectors and stakeholders in agriculture, urban planning, forestry, or ecosystem management. However, the accuracy of these forecasts depends on the data quality of the precipitation forcing data. Previous studies have utilized data-driven methods, such as deep learning (DL) during the preprocessing phase to improve precipitation forcing data obtained from numerical weather prediction simulations. Nonetheless, challenges related to the spatiotemporal variability of hourly precipitation data persist, including issues with ground truth data availability, data imbalance in training DL models, and method evaluation. This study compares three (near) real-time spatiotemporal precipitation datasets to be used in the aforementioned IHM forecast systems: (1) 24 h precipitation forecast data obtained by ECMWF’s 10-day HRES deterministic forecast, (2) H-SAF h61 satellite observations as reference, and (3) DL-based corrected HRES precipitation using a U-Net convolutional neural network (CNN). As high-resolution data, H-SAF is used both as a reference for correcting HRES precipitation data and as a stand-alone candidate for forcing data. These datasets are used as forcing data in high-resolution (~0.6 km) integrated hydrologic simulations using ParFlow/CLM over central Europe from April 2020 to December 2022. Soil moisture (SM) simulations are used as a diagnostic downstream variable for evaluating the impact of forcing data. The DL-based correction reduces the gap between HRES and H-SAF by 49, 33, and 12% in mean error, root mean square error, and Pearson correlation, respectively. However, comparison of SM simulations obtained from the three datasets with ESA CCI SM data reveals better agreement with the uncorrected HRES 24-h forecast data. In conclusion, H-SAF satellite-based precipitation data falls short in representing precipitation used for SM simulations compared to 24 h lead time HRES forecasts. This emphasizes the need for more reliable spatiotemporally continuous high-resolution precipitation observations for using DL correction in improving precipitation forecasts. The study demonstrates the potential of DL methods as a near real-time data pre-processor in quasi-operational water resources forecasting workflows. The quality of the preprocessor is directly proportional to the quality of the applied observation.