bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Let’s Learn Together! A Mixed-Methods Study to Assess Readiness for Interprofessional Education on Total Worker Health® Practice
Authors: Nobrega Suzanne , Zhang Yuan
Published: January 2024

Background:

Occupational safety and health (OSH) professionals increasingly need interdisciplinary collaborative practice competencies to respond to complex worker safety, health, and well-being risks. Effective collaboration with non-OSH-trained professionals (e.g., health promotion, human resources) is critical for planning integrated interventions that address work and non-work risks, consistent with a “ Total Worker Health” (TWH) approach. Interprofessional education (IPE) pedagogy offers skill-building for interdisciplinary collaboration, but little attention has been given to IPE in OSH education and training literature. The goal of this study was to assess OSH professionals’ perceptions about IPE to guide application in postgraduate TWH education.

Methods:

The mixed-methods study involved 210 U.S. professionals in safety (31%), industrial hygiene (16%), occupational nursing (12%) and medicine (11%), and related disciplines (30%). Participants completed a 12-item Readiness for Interprofessional Education Scale (RIPLS) adapted for TWH. Nineteen survey-takers also participated in virtual focus groups to share opinions about IPE benefits, barriers, and desirable course features.

Findings:

Occupational safety and health professionals reported high overall readiness for IPE (RIPLS, 4.45 ± 0.47), endorsing IPE for interdisciplinary skill-building. Salient IPE motivators were learning new perspectives from diverse disciplines and industries; gaining new subject expertise; developing common ground across disciplines; and learning TWH best practices. Participants recommended case studies to practice interdisciplinary problem-solving through group work.

Conclusions/Application to Practice:

Interprofessional education is a promising pedagogy for OSH continuing education to promote interdisciplinary collaboration skills needed for TWH practice in the workplace. Occupational safety and health educators need to build competency in IPE pedagogical theory and practice to ensure effective training design and evaluation.
In vitro chemical treatment of silk increases the expression of pro-inflammatory factors and facilitates degradation in rats
Authors: Lv Jinfeng , Wang Jieping , Zeng Yao , Tian Simeng , Wang Fei , Zhai Yixue , Zhou Qian , Luo Xiyue , Zhang Xuanjie , Liu Bin , Zhou Chan
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Silk fiber is difficult to degrade in vivo, which limits its application in tissue engineering materials such as artificial nerves. Therefore, in this study aim to promote its degradation in vivo by chemical treating silk fibers in vitro.

Materials and methods:

Sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations, mechanical test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) measurements were used to investigate the degradation effect of chemicals (hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium chloride) on silk fiber in vitro. Immunofluorescence staining and transcriptome analysis were used to investigate the effect of inflammatory factors on the degradation of chemically treated silk fiber in rats.

Results:

(1) Silks were separated into finer fibers in each group. (2) FT-IR absorption peaks of amides I, II, and III overlap in each group. (3) Silk degradation degree in each group was higher than that in an untreated group. The calcium chloride-treated group was completely degraded. (4) Fibronectin, collagen I, collagen III, integrin α and CD68 were immunofluorescence positive in all vegetation section. (5) There were no significant differences in the expressions of collagen I, collagen III, and fibronectin in the vegetations formed on the 14th day of subcutaneous implantation, while integrin α, CD68, TNF-α, IL-1b, and IL-23 express at higher levels with IL-10 at lower levels.

Conclusions:

All chemicals could completely degrade silk; however, their degradation products were not the same. The chemicals change the mechanical properties of silk by separating it into finer fibers, which increase the contact surface area between the silk and tissue fluid, accelerating the degradation of monofilaments in vivo by promoting inflammation and macrophage activity through the increased and decreased expressions of pro- and anti-inflammatory factors, respectively.
Validation of Blood Glucose and Lipid-Lowering Effect of Solvent Fractions of the Crinum Abyssinicum Shoot Tips in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Tegegne Bantayehu Addis , Yihunie Wubetu , Aschale Yibeltal , Belew Habtamu , Getachew Melese
Published: January 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus prevalence has reached epidemic levels despite the existence of contemporary treatments. People thus started looking at the possible therapeutic value of natural therapies. Crushed shoot tips of Crinum abyssinicum (Amaryllidaceae) are mixed with water in Ethiopia to treat diabetes, yet this practice is not well supported by science.

Objective

In this experiment, mice models were used to verify the blood sugar and lipid-lowering benefits of solvent fractions of C. abyssinicum shoot tips.

Materials and Methods

In a single-dose treated Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic model, mice were randomly grouped into eleven categories which include diabetic negative control, diabetic positive control, and 9 diabetic treatment groups. In repeated daily doses treated STZ-induced model, Mice were divided into 6 groups which included normal and diabetic negative control (TW80), diabetic positive control (5 mg/kg glibenclamide), and three diabetic treatment groups 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Finally, blood glucose, lipid level, and body weight were examined.

Results

In the single-dose treated diabetic model, there was a significant blood glucose reduction at 200 and 400 mg/kg doses of aqueous fraction and glibenclamide starting from the sixth-hour post-administration unlike ethyl acetate and chloroform fraction compared to baseline and negative control. In repeated daily dose-treated diabetic mice, all three doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of aqueous fraction) resulted in a substantial reduction ( P < .001) in blood glucose compared to baseline and negative control on the seventh day and 14th day. Besides the AQF shows improvement in lipid levels and body weight parameters.

Conclusion

The results of the study demonstrated that C. abyssinicum shoot tip fractions have the greatest potential to lower blood sugar and lipid levels, supporting conventional claims for the treatment of diabetes.
The Los Angeles County Department of Health Services Health Technology Navigators: A novel health workforce to digitally empower patient communities in safety net systems
Authors: Casillas Alejandra , Abhat Anshu
Published: January 2024

Significant disparities in the uptake of digital health tools have been previously described. Studies have found that low perceived confidence to engage with digital health resources among medically underserved patients partially account for this. To address barriers to digital health engagement (specifically around patient portal enrollment and use), the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services (LAC DHS) introduced the Health Technology Navigators program. To our knowledge, this is the first formal digital health workforce implemented in a safety net system. The objectives of the editorial are to describe the evolution and roles of the health technology navigators and their early effects within LAC DHS, the second largest safety net health system in the United States.
Validation of Roussouly classification in predicting the occurrence of adjacent segment disease after short-level lumbar fusion surgery
Authors: Wang Muyi , Wang Xin , Wang Hao , Shen Yifei , Qiu Yong , Sun Xu , Zhou Dong , Jiang Yuqing
Published: January 2024

Background

Recent studies demonstrated that restoring sagittal alignment to the original Roussouly type can remarkably reduce complication rates after adult spinal deformity surgery. However, there is still no data proving the benefit of maintaining ideal Roussouly shape in the lumbar degenerative diseases and its association with the development of adjacent segment disease (ASD). Thus, this study was performed to validate the usefulness of Roussouly classification to predict the occurrence of ASD after lumbar fusion surgery.

Materials and Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed 234 consecutive patients with lumbar degenerative diseases who underwent 1- or 2-level fusion surgery. Demographic and radiographic data were compared between ASD and non-ASD groups. The patients were classified by both “theoretical” [based on pelvic incidence (PI)] and “current” (based on sacral slope) Roussouly types. The patients were defined as “matched” if their “current” shapes matched the “theoretical” types and otherwise as “mismatched”. The logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with ASD. Finally, clinical data and spinopelvic parameters of “theoretical” and “current” types were compared.

Results

With a mean follow-up duration of 70.6 months, evidence of ASD was found in the 68 cases. Postoperatively, ASD group had more “current” shapes classified as type 1 or 2 and fewer as type 3 than the non-ASD group (p < 0.001), but the distribution of “theoretical” types was similar between groups. Moreover, 80.9% (55/68) of patients with ASD were mismatched, while 48.2% (80/166) of patients without ASD were mismatched (p < 0.001). A multivariate analysis identified age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.058)], 2-level fusion (OR = 2.9830), postoperative distal lordosis (DL, OR = 0.949) and mismatched Roussouly type (OR = 4.629) as independent risk factors of ASD. Among the four "theoretical" types, type 2 had the lowest lumbar lordosis, DL, and segmental lordosis. When considering the "current" types, current type 2 was associated with higher rates of 2-level fusion, worse DL, and greater pelvic tilt compared with other current types.

Conclusions

DL loss and mismatched Roussouly type were significant risk factors of ASD. To decrease the incidence of ASD, an appropriate value of DL should be achieved to restore sagittal alignment back to the ideal Roussouly type.

Level of Evidence: Level 4.
Dual-targeting nanomedicine achieves synergistic multimodal therapy for tumor
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Dai Liang , Wang Na , Liu Yunhe , Hao Zining , He Yaqian , Ni Song , Wang Yimin , Gao Dawei
Published: January 2024

Background

The poor targeting delivery efficiency and limited efficacy of single therapeutic approach have consistently posed significant challenges in tumor management.

Results

In this research, we have conceived and synthesized a dual-targeting nanodrug delivery system denoted as PDA-DEM-Fe3O4@M, which incorporates a polydopamine nanoparticle (PDA) with photothermal properties, diethyl maleate (DEM) as a chemotherapy agent accelerating tumor apoptosis, iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4) eliciting magnetic targeting effects, and tumor cell membranes (M) contributing to homologous targeting capabilities. The synergistic effect of PDA-induced photothermal therapy and DEM-mediated chemotherapy has been demonstrated in this study to exert a robust inhibitory and cytotoxic influence on tumor cells. Additionally, the biocompatibility of this system has also been demonstrated.

Conclusions

Through the synergistic effects of PDA’s photothermal therapy and DEM’s chemotherapy, this system demonstrated excellent inhibition and killing effects on tumor cells. Furthermore, we established its excellent biological safety profile. This study demonstrated the potential of this nanomaterial for clinical application in tumor therapy.
Codon usage characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial genome in Hemerocallis citrina
Authors: Zhang Kun , Wang Yiheng , Zhang Yue , Shan Xiaofei
Published: January 2024

Background

Hemerocallis citrina Baroni is a traditional vegetable crop widely cultivated in eastern Asia for its high edible, medicinal, and ornamental value. The phenomenon of codon usage bias (CUB) is prevalent in various genomes and provides excellent clues for gaining insight into organism evolution and phylogeny. Comprehensive analysis of the CUB of mitochondrial (mt) genes can provide rich genetic information for improving the expression efficiency of exogenous genes and optimizing molecular-assisted breeding programmes in H. citrina.

Results

Here, the CUB patterns in the mt genome of H. citrina were systematically analyzed, and the possible factors shaping CUB were further evaluated. Composition analysis of codons revealed that the overall GC (GCall) and GC at the third codon position (GC3) contents of mt genes were lower than 50%, presenting a preference for A/T-rich nucleotides and A/T-ending codons in H. citrina. The high values of the effective number of codons (ENC) are indicative of fairly weak CUB. Significant correlations of ENC with the GC3 and codon counts were observed, suggesting that not only compositional constraints but also gene length contributed greatly to CUB. Combined ENC-plot, neutrality plot, and Parity rule 2 (PR2)-plot analyses augmented the inference that the CUB patterns of the H. citrina mitogenome can be attributed to multiple factors. Natural selection, mutation pressure, and other factors might play a major role in shaping the CUB of mt genes, although natural selection is the decisive factor. Moreover, we identified a total of 29 high-frequency codons and 22 optimal codons, which exhibited a consistent preference for ending in A/T. Subsequent relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU)-based cluster and mt protein coding gene (PCG)-based phylogenetic analyses suggested that H. citrina is close to Asparagus officinalis, Chlorophytum comosum, Allium cepa, and Allium fistulosum in evolutionary terms, reflecting a certain correlation between CUB and evolutionary relationships.

Conclusions

There is weak CUB in the H. citrina mitogenome that is subject to the combined effects of multiple factors, especially natural selection. H. citrina was found to be closely related to Asparagus officinalis, Chlorophytum comosum, Allium cepa, and Allium fistulosum in terms of their evolutionary relationships as well as the CUB patterns of their mitogenomes. Our findings provide a fundamental reference for further studies on genetic modification and phylogenetic evolution in H. citrina.
Genome-wide identification and expression analyses of CYP450 genes in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.)
Authors: Lin Xiongjian , Tang Binquan , Li Zhenqin , Shi Lei , Zhu Hongbo
Published: January 2024

Background

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP450s) play a crucial role in various biochemical reactions involved in the synthesis of antioxidants, pigments, structural polymers, and defense-related compounds in plants. As sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) holds significant economic importance, a comprehensive analysis of CYP450 genes in this plant species can offer valuable insights into the evolutionary relationships and functional characteristics of these genes.

Results

In this study, we successfully identified and categorized 95 CYP450 genes from the sweet potato genome into 5 families and 31 subfamilies. The predicted subcellular localization results indicate that CYP450s are distributed in the cell membrane system. The promoter region of the IbCYP450 genes contains various cis-acting elements related to plant hormones and stress responses. In addition, ten conserved motifs (Motif1-Motif10) have been identified in the IbCYP450 family proteins, with 5 genes lacking introns and only one exon. We observed extensive duplication events within the CYP450 gene family, which may account for its expansion. The gene duplication analysis results showed the presence of 15 pairs of genes with tandem repeats. Interaction network analysis reveals that IbCYP450 families can interact with multiple target genes and there are protein-protein interactions within the family. Transcription factor interaction analysis suggests that IbCYP450 families interact with multiple transcription factors. Furthermore, gene expression analysis revealed tissue-specific expression patterns of CYP450 genes in sweet potatoes, as well as their response to abiotic stress and plant hormones. Notably, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‒PCR) analysis indicated the involvement of CYP450 genes in the defense response against nonbiological stresses in sweet potatoes.

Conclusions

These findings provide a foundation for further investigations aiming to elucidate the biological functions of CYP450 genes in sweet potatoes.
Chronic shedding of a SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant in wastewater
Authors: Conway Michael J. , Yang Hannah , Revord Lauren A. , Novay Michael P. , Lee Rachel J. , Ward Avery S. , Abel Jackson D. , Williams Maggie R. , Uzarski Rebecca L. , Alm Elizabeth W.
Published: January 2024

Background

Central Michigan University (CMU) participated in a state-wide SARS-CoV-2 wastewater monitoring program since 2021. Wastewater samples were collected from on-campus sites and nine off-campus wastewater treatment plants servicing small metropolitan and rural communities. SARS-CoV-2 genome copies were quantified using droplet digital PCR and results were reported to the health department.

Results

One rural, off-campus site consistently produced higher concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 genome copies. Samples from this site were sequenced and contained predominately a derivative of Alpha variant lineage B.1.1.7, detected from fall 2021 through summer 2023. Mutational analysis of reconstructed genes revealed divergence from the Alpha variant lineage sequence over time, including numerous mutations  in the Spike RBD and NTD.

Conclusions

We discuss the possibility that a chronic SARS-CoV-2 infection accumulated adaptive mutations that promoted long-term infection. This study reveals that small wastewater treatment plants can enhance resolution of rare events and facilitate reconstruction of viral genomes due to the relative lack of contaminating sequences.
Transcriptome analysis of long non-coding RNA and mRNA Profiles in VSV-infected BHK-21 Cells
Authors: Han Wuweiyi , Fei Xiaojuan , Yang Fan , Sun Xintong , Yang Jianshe , Qiu Jinxin , Zhang Luhua , Zhang Wenhui , Chen Guohua , Han Wei , He Xiaobo , Liu Yongsheng , Li Weike
Published: January 2024

Background

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is a typical non-segmented negative-sense RNA virus of the genus Vesiculovirus in the family Rhabdoviridae. VSV can infect a wide range of animals, including humans, with oral blister epithelial lesions. VSV is an excellent model virus with a wide range of applications as a molecular tool, a vaccine vector, and an oncolytic vector. To further understand the interaction between VSV and host cells and to provide a theoretical basis for the application prospects of VSV, we analyzed the expression of host differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during VSV infection using RNA-Seq.

Results

Our analyses found a total of 1015 differentially expressed mRNAs and 161 differentially expressed LncRNAs in BHK-21 cells infected with VSV for 24 h compared with controls. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment showed that the differentially expressed lncRNAs and their target genes were mainly concentrated in pathways related to apoptosis, cancer, disease, and immune system activation, including the TNF, P53, MAPK, and NF-kappaB signaling pathways. The differentially expressed lncRNA can modulate immune processes by regulating genes involved in these signaling transmissions. Ten randomly selected DEGs, namely, Il12rb2, F2, Masp2, Mcl1, FGF18, Ripk1, Fas, BMF, POLK, and JAG1, were validated using RT-qPCR. As predicted through RNA-Seq analysis, these DEGs underwent either up- or downregulation, suggesting that they may play key regulatory roles in the pathways mentioned previously.

Conclusions

Our study showed that VSV infection alters the host metabolic network and activates immune-related pathways, such as MAPK and TNF. The above findings provide unique insights for further study of the mechanism of VSV–host interactions and, more importantly, provide a theoretical basis for VSV as an excellent vaccine carrier.
Postoperative pain after different doses of remifentanil infusion during anaesthesia: a meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Xinyi , Cai Jinxia , Lv Zhu , Zhou Zijun , Zhou Xiaotian , Zhao Qimin , Sun Jiehao , Chen Long
Published: January 2024

Background

This meta-analysis aimed to explore the correlation between the different doses of remifentanil-based anaesthesia and postoperative pain in randomised trials.

Methods

The electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane, clinical trial registries, and Google Scholar were searched up to November 2022 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the dose dependent efficacy of remifentanil for postoperative pain intensity and hyperalgesia.

Results

31 studies involving 2019 patients were included for analysis. Compared with the high remifentanil dose administration, patients in low doses showed less postoperative pain intensity at 1-2 h (weighted mean differences (WMD): 0.60, 95% CI, 0.05 to 1.15), 3-8 h (WMD: 0.38, 95% CI, 0.00 to 0.75), 24 h (WMD: 0.26, 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.48) and 48 h (WMD: 0.32, 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.55). Remifentanil-free regimen failed to decrease the pain score at 24 h (WMD: 0.10, 95% CI, -0.10 to 0.30) and 48 h (WMD: 0.15, 95% CI, -0.22 to 0.52) in comparison with remifentanil-based anaesthesia. After excluding trials with high heterogeneity, the dose of the remifentanil regimen was closely correlated with the postoperative pain score (P=0.03). In addition, the dose of the remifentanil regimen was not associated with the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) (P=0.37).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis reveals that the low dose of remifentanil infusion is recommendable for general anaesthesia maintenance. No evidence suggests that remifentanil-free regimen has superiority in reducing postoperative pain. Moreover, remifentanil doesn’t have a dose dependent effect in initiating PONV.

Trial registration

The protocol of present study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022378360).
Practice and attitude of general practitioners towards initiating isotretinoin for acne vulgaris in Fars province, Iran: cross-sectional study
Authors: Hosseinpour Parisa , Gholamabbas Ghazal , Pezeshkian Fatemehsadat , Erfani Amirhossein , Shahriarirad Reza , Parhizkar Ahmad Reza
Published: January 2024

Background

Since general practitioners manage acne-related referrals, there needs to be more information in Iran about how drugs such as Isotretinoin are prescribed and the treatment plan. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate general practitioners s’ practices and attitudes in prescribing Isotretinoin for acne vulgaris in primary care.

Methods

This web-based cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using two questionnaires designed with the target population of GPs working in Fars province in 2021 regarding the prescription of Isotretinoin. Moreover, demographic information, questions about interest in dermatology, and participation in dermatology workshops were gathered.

Results

A total of 308 complete questionnaires were obtained. According to our results, 85 (27.6%) GPs prescribed Isotretinoin in primary care. Based on our results, higher age (OR: 1.042; CI95%: 1.013–1.072; P-value:0.004) and attending dermatological courses (OR: 3.280; CI95%: 1.592–6.755; P-value:0.001) were significantly correlated with more frequent Isotretinoin administration. Among GPs who do not prescribe Isotretinoin, the most common causes are concerns about liver dysfunction (54.7%), teratogenic concerns (37.2%), and lack of familiarity with the drug (31.4%) respectively.

Conclusion

The results of this study depicted the reluctance of most physicians to prescribe Isotretinoin and factors such as taking part in supplementary courses under the supervision of dermatologists and following national guidelines that could encourage them to prescribe Isotretinoin.
Identification of a vascular invasion-related signature based on lncRNA pairs for predicting prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Nan , Ni Chunsheng , Zhang Danfang , Che Na , Li Yanlei , Wang Xiao
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Most signatures are constructed on the basis of RNA or protein expression levels. The value of vascular invasion-related signatures based on lncRNA pairs, regardless of their specific expression level in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is not yet clear.

Methods

Vascular invasion-related differentially expressed lncRNA (DElncRNA) pairs were identified with a two-lncRNA combination strategy by using a novel modeling algorithm. Based on the optimal cutoff value of the ROC curve, patients with HCC were classified into high- and low-risk subgroups. We used KM survival analysis to evaluate the overall survival rate of patients in the high- and low-risk subgroups. The independent indicators of survival were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox analyses.

Results

Five pairs of vascular invasion-related DElncRNAs were selected to develop a predictive model for HCC. High-risk subgroups were closely associated with aggressive clinicopathological characteristics and genes, chemotherapeutic sensitivity, and highly expressed immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Conclusions

We identified a signature composed of 5 pairs of vascular invasion-related lncRNAs that does not require absolute expression levels of lncRNAs and shows promising clinical predictive value for HCC prognosis. This predictive model provides deep insight into the value of vascular invasion-related lncRNAs in prognosis.
Development and clinical application of loop-mediated isothermal amplification combined with lateral flow assay for rapid diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Tang Jin , Zhu Jie , Wang Jie , Qian Haiyong , Liu Zengxin , Wang Ru , Cai Qingqing , Fang Yuan , Huang Weifeng
Published: January 2024

Background

The diagnostic assay leveraging multiple reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) could meet the requirements for rapid nucleic acid detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods

The devised assay merged the lateral flow assay with the RT-LAMP technology and designed specific primers for the simultaneous detection of the target and human-derived internal reference genes within a single reaction. An inquiry into the assay's limit of detection (LOD), sensitivity, and specificity was carried out. The effectiveness of this assay was validated using 498 clinical specimens.

Results

This LOD of the assay was determined to be 500 copies/mL, and there was no observed cross-reaction with other respiratory pathogens. The detection results derived from clinical specimens showed substantial concordance with those from real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) (Cohen's kappa, 0.876; 95% CI: 0.833-0.919;p<0.005). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 87.1% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusion

The RT-LAMP assay, paired with a straightforward and disposable lateral immunochromatographic strip, achieves visual detection of dual targets for SARS-CoV-2 immediatly. Moreover, the entire procedure abstains from nucleic acids extraction. The samples are lysed at room temperature and subsequently proceed directly to the RT-LAMP reaction, which can be executed within 30 minutes at a constant temperature of 60-65°C. Then, the RT-LAMP amplification products are visualized using colloidal gold test strips.

Trial registration

This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration number: ChiCTR2200060495, Date of registration 2022-06-03).
Relationship between human papillomavirus and serum vitamin D levels: a systematic review
Authors: Khalili Seyedeh Maryam , Rafiei Elnaz Haji , Havaei Marjan , Alizadeh Leila , Ghahremani Fereshte , Keshavarz Zohreh , Montazeri Ali , Riazi Hedyeh
Published: January 2024

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. The present review was conducted to accumulate evidence on the relationship between cervicovaginal human papillomavirus infection and serum vitamin D status.

Methods

Electronic databases including Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and PubMed were searched by different combinations of keywords related to “human papillomavirus” and “vitamin D”, obtained from Mesh and Emtree with AND, and OR operators without any time restriction until December 24, 2022. Selection of articles was based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for quality assessment. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist was applied for reporting.

Results

In total, 276 citations were retrieved. After removing duplicates, and non-related articles, the full texts of 7 articles were reviewed including 11168 participants. Three studies reported that there was a positive relationship between vitamin D deficiency and cervicovaginal human papillomavirus while three studies did not. One study showed a significant positive association between higher vitamin D stores and short-term high-risk human papillomavirus persistence.

Conclusions

The findings showed no firm evidence for any association between serum vitamin D level and cervicovaginal human papillomavirus infection, although the possible association could not be discarded. Further investigations are needed to reach sound evidence.
Don’t be late! Timely identification of cognitive impairment in people with multiple sclerosis: a study protocol
Authors: Waskowiak Pauline T. , de Jong Brigit A. , Uitdehaag Bernard M. J. , Saddal Shalina R. D. , Aarts Jip , Roovers Aïda A. M. , van Oirschot Pim , de Groot Vincent , Schaafsma Frederieke G. , van der Hiele Karin , Ruitenberg Marit F. L. , Schoonheim Menno M. , Widdershoven Guy A. M. , van der Veen Sabina , Schippers Esther C. F. , Klein Martin , Hulst Hanneke E. ,   Don’t be late! Consortium, van Munster Casper E. P. , Wieberdink Renske G. , Kragt Jolijn J. , Schouten Judith , Hoogervorst Erwin L. J. , Bouma Paul A. D. , De Kleermaeker Floris G. C. M. , Holleman Meike , Geurts Sofie , de Brabander Christaan , Kalkers Nynke F. , den Teuling Bram A. J. , Vermeer Jos , Schouten Chris C. , Stege Gerard J. , van‘t Hullenaar Thijs
Published: January 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment occurs in up to 65% of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), negatively affecting daily functioning and health-related quality of life. In general, neuropsychological testing is not part of standard MS-care due to insufficient time and trained personnel. Consequently, a baseline assessment of cognitive functioning is often lacking, hampering early identification of cognitive decline and change within a person over time. To assess cognitive functioning in PwMS in a time-efficient manner, a BICAMS-based self-explanatory digital screening tool called the Multiple Screener©, has recently been developed. The aim of the current study is to validate the Multiple Screener© in a representative sample of PwMS in the Netherlands. Additionally, we aim to investigate how cognitive functioning is related to psychological factors, and both work and societal participation.

Methods

In this cross-sectional multicentre study, 750 PwMS (aged 18–67 years) are included. To obtain a representative sample, PwMS are recruited via 12 hospitals across the Netherlands. They undergo assessment with the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Functioning in MS (MACFIMS; reference-standard) and the Multiple Screener©. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values for identifying (mild) cognitive impairment are determined in a subset of 300 participants. In a second step, the identified cut-off values are tested in an independent subset of at least 150 PwMS. Moreover, test–retest reliability for the Multiple Screener© is determined in 30 PwMS. Information on psychological and work-related factors is assessed with questionnaires.

Discussion

Validating the Multiple Screener© in PwMS and investigating cognition and its determinants will further facilitate early identification and adequate monitoring of cognitive decline in PwMS.
Access to oncology care in Mali: a qualitative study on breast cancer
Authors: Schantz Clémence , Coulibaly Abdourahmane , Traoré Alassane , Traoré Bakary Abou , Faye Kadiatou , Robin Julie , Teixeira Luis , Ridde Valéry ,   and the SENOVIE group, Aboubakar Moufalilou , Baron Myriam , Guetz Gaëtan Des , Gosselin Anne , Niangaly Hamidou , Bonnet Emmanuel , Chabrol Fanny , Denakpo Justin Lewis , du Loû Annabel Desgrées , Gnangnon Freddy , Petitet Pascale Hancart , Larmarange Joseph , Pourette Dolorès , Prost Léa , Rath Beauta , Sauvegrain Priscille , Bagnan Angéline Tonato
Published: January 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in terms of incidence and mortality among women worldwide, including in Africa, and a rapid increase in the number of new cases of breast cancer has recently been observed in sub-Saharan Africa. Oncology is a relatively new discipline in many West African countries, particularly Mali; thus, little is known about the current state of cancer care infrastructure and oncology practices in these countries.

Methods

To describe the challenges related to access to oncology care in Mali, we used a qualitative approach, following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ). Thirty-eight semistructured interviews were conducted with health professionals treating cancer in Mali (n = 10), women with breast cancer (n = 25), and representatives of associations (n = 3), and 40 participant observations were conducted in an oncology unit in Bamako. We used the theoretical framework on access to health care developed by Levesque et al. a posteriori to organise and analyse the data collected.

Results

Access to oncology care is partly limited by the current state of Mali's health infrastructure (technical platform failures, repeated strikes in university hospitals, incomplete free health care and the unavailability of medicines) and exacerbated by the security crisis that has been occurring the country since 2012. The lack of specialist doctors, combined with limited screening campaigns and a centralised and fragmented technical platform in Bamako, is particularly detrimental to breast cancer treatment. Women's lack of awareness, lack of information throughout the treatment process, stereotypes and opposition to amputations all play a significant role in their ability to seek and access quality care, leading some women to therapeutically wander and others to want to leave Mali. It also leaves them in debt and jeopardises the future of their children. However, the high level of trust in doctors, the involvement of international actors, the level of social support and the growing influence of civil society on the issue of cancer also represent great current opportunities to fight cancer in Mali.

Conclusion

Despite the efforts of successive Malian governments and the commitment of international actors, the provision of health care is still limited in the country, entrenching global inequalities in women's bodies.
A novel de novo truncating variant in a Hungarian patient with CTNNB1 neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Nagy Nikoletta , Pál Margit , Nagy Dóra , Bokor Barbara Anna , Zimmermann Aliz , Gellén Balázs , Salamon András , Sztriha László , Klivényi Péter , Széll Márta
Published: January 2024

Purpose

We aimed to elucidate the underlying disease in a Hungarian family, with only one affected family member, a 16-year-old male Hungarian patient, who developed global developmental delay, cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, short stature, intermittent headaches, recurrent dizziness, strabismus, hypermetropia, complex movement disorder and partial pituitary dysfunction. After years of detailed clinical investigations and careful pediatric care, the exact diagnosis of the patient and the cause of the disease was still unknown.

Methods

We aimed to perform whole exome sequencing (WES) in order to investigate whether the affected patient is suffering from a rare monogenic disease.

Results

Using WES, we identified a novel, de novo frameshift variant (c.1902dupG, p.Ala636SerfsTer12) of the catenin beta-1 (CTNNB1) gene. Assessment of the novel CTNNB1 variant suggested that it is a likely pathogenic one and raised the diagnosis of CTNNB1 neurodevelopmental disorder (OMIM 615,075).

Conclusions

Our manuscript may contribute to the better understanding of the genetic background of the recently discovered CTNNB1 neurodevelopmental disorder and raise awareness among clinicians and geneticists. The affected Hungarian family demonstrates that based on the results of the clinical workup is difficult to establish the diagnosis and high-throughput genetic screening may help to solve these complex cases.
Too hot to thrive: a qualitative inquiry of community perspectives on the effect of high ambient temperature on postpartum women and neonates in Kilifi, Kenya
Authors: Lusambili Adelaide , Kovats Sari , Nakstad Britt , Filippi Veronique , Khaemba Peter , Roos Nathalie , Part Cherie , Luchters Stanley , Chersich Matthew , Hess Jeremy , Kadio Kadidiatou , Scorgie Fiona
Published: January 2024

Objective

To understand community perspectives on the effects of high ambient temperature on the health and wellbeing of neonates, and impacts on post-partum women and infant care in Kilifi.

Design

Qualitative study using key informant interviews, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant and postpartum women (n = 22), mothers-in-law (n = 19), male spouses (n = 20), community health volunteers (CHVs) (n = 22) and stakeholders from health and government ministries (n = 16).

Settings

We conducted our research in Kilifi County in Kenya’s Coast Province. The area is largely rural and during summer, air temperatures can reach 37˚C and rarely go below 23˚C.

Data analysis

Data were analyzed in NVivo 12, using both inductive and deductive approaches.

Results

High ambient temperature is perceived by community members to have direct and indirect health pathways in pregnancy and postpartum periods, including on the neonates. The direct impacts include injuries on the neonate’s skin and in the mouth, leading to discomfort and affecting breastfeeding and sleeping. Participants described babies as “having no peace”. Heat effects were perceived to be amplified by indoor air pollution and heat from indoor cooking fires. Community members believed that exclusive breastfeeding was not practical in conditions of extreme heat because it lowered breast milk production, which was, in turn, linked to a low scarcity of food and time spend by mothers away from their neonates performing household chores. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) was also negatively affected. Participants reported that postpartum women took longer to heal in the heat, were exhausted most of the time and tended not to attend postnatal care.

Conclusions

High ambient temperatures affect postpartum women and their neonates through direct and indirect pathways. Discomfort makes it difficult for the mother to care for the baby. Multi-sectoral policies and programs are required to mitigate the negative impacts of high ambient temperatures on maternal and neonatal health in rural Kilifi and similar settings.
The anthropometric determinants of peak expiratory flow rate among children in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Kyejo Willbroad , Matillya Nancy , Ismail Neelam , Gachocha Gloria , Salum Hajaj , Iseme Rosebella , Noorani Mariam
Published: January 2024

Background

Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) is an important tool for assessing lung function, which can be affected by environmental and physical factors such as altitude, nutrition, genetics, age, height, and weight. Conducting a study to assess the correlation between peak expiratory flow rate and anthropometric measurements in Tanzanian schoolchildren is crucial to derive a population-specific prediction formula and further simplify respiratory health assessment.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in a single center private primary and secondary school in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania using data from an asthma screening camp. Variables of interest were height, weight, Body Mass Index (BMI) and PEFR. Independent t-test was performed to identify any differences in mean flow rate values between different ethnicities and genders. Correlation coefficients (r) were used to observe the relationship between PEFR and anthropometric measurements. A prediction equation by gender was generated using linear regression analysis. Statistical significance was set at the 5% level. All statistical data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.

Results

The study involved 260 participants with a mean age of 9.5 years. Males were 51.2% and 65% of participants were of Asian ethnicity. PEFR was not observed to differ across the different ethnic groups and genders. Height was found to have the strongest correlation coefficient of 0.745, while BMI had the weakest correlation coefficient of 0.366. The strongest correlation was found with height for females (r = 0.787), while the weakest was with body mass index for boys (r = 0.203). The derived prediction equation for males was PEFR = 279.169 (Height of Student in meters) —134.12, while the predictive equation for females was PEFR = 318.32 (Height of Student in meters) —195.69.

Conclusion

This study found a strong correlation between PEFR and anthropometric characteristics in school children from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A prediction equation by gender for PEFR was developed based on anthropometric characteristics. This equation may be applied in population-based studies or situations where peak flow meters are not readily available. Further research is needed to explore how well this prediction formula performs in other Tanzanian settings and to determine other factors that may affect lung function in this population.
The tortuous diagnosis of one case of neonatal hyperthyroidism
Authors: Zhu Lin , Wang Jing , Liu Wei
Published: January 2024

Objective

To outline the clinical signs, diagnosis, and course of care for a single case of neonatal hyperthyroidism while also summarizing common diagnostic errors related to this condition.

Methods

Medical records of the neonate of hyperthyroidism were collected and analyzed in combination with literature.

Results

The neonate’s mother had thyroid disease, but her thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb) levels were not monitored during pregnancy. The neonate exhibited typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism on the day of birth but was not diagnosed until 15 days later. Impaired liver (cholestasis, elevated liver enzymes) and cardiac function (pulmonary hypertension, right heart enlargement) are the main manifestations. Treatment with methimazole (1.0 mg /kg·d) and propranolol (2.0 mg /kg·d) led to recovery, and the neonate stayed in the hospital for 27 days before being discharged with medication. The diagnosis was temporary hyperthyroidism, and the medication was discontinued at 72 days of age.

Conclusion

It is important to strengthen the management of high-risk pregnant women with thyroid disease. Monitoring TRAb levels in both mothers and neonates should be done dynamically to enable early prediction and diagnosis of neonatal hyperthyroidism. Most neonates with hyperthyroidism have a good prognosis when timely and appropriate medical treatment is provided.
Psychometric properties of the Malay version of the Illness Cognition Questionnaire among cancer patients in Malaysia
Authors: Song Wenjun , Mansor Nor Shuhada , Shari Nurul Izzah , Zhang Ruiling , Abdullah Mohammad Farris Iman Leong Bin
Published: January 2024

Objective

The Illness Cognition Questionnaire (ICQ) was translated from its original English version to the Malay version for this research, adapted the Malay language version of the ICQ (ICQ-M) for use in cancer patients, and assessed the internal consistency, content, face, construct, convergent, discriminant and concurrent validity of the ICQ-M among a cohort of cancer patients with mixed cancer types in Malaysia.

Method

Initially, the ICQ was translated into Malay and back-translated, and its content and face validity were evaluated. Then, 346 cancer patients with various cancer types received the ICQ-M, and its internal consistency, convergent, discriminant, construct, and concurrent validity were evaluated.

Results

The ICQ-M and its domains had acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach’s α ranging from 0.742 to 0.927. Construct validity assessment demonstrated that the ICQ-M consists of 17 items designated in two domains with good convergent and discriminant validity. The ICQ-M and its domains also had moderate correlations with the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II, which denotes that the ICQ-M had acceptable concurrent validity.

Conclusion

The ICQ-M had good psychometric properties and is now available to measure the illness cognition of cancer patients in Malaysia.
Changing genomic epidemiology of COVID-19 in long-term care facilities during the 2020–2022 pandemic, Washington State
Authors: Oltean Hanna N. , Black Allison , Lunn Stephanie M. , Smith Nailah , Templeton Allison , Bevers Elyse , Kibiger Lynae , Sixberry Melissa , Bickel Josina B. , Hughes James P. , Lindquist Scott , Baseman Janet G. , Bedford Trevor
Published: January 2024

Background

Long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are vulnerable to disease outbreaks. Here, we jointly analyze SARS-CoV-2 genomic and paired epidemiologic data from LTCFs and surrounding communities in Washington state (WA) to assess transmission patterns during 2020–2022, in a setting of changing policy. We describe sequencing efforts and genomic epidemiologic findings across LTCFs and perform in-depth analysis in a single county.

Methods

We assessed genomic data representativeness, built phylogenetic trees, and conducted discrete trait analysis to estimate introduction sizes over time, and explored selected outbreaks to further characterize transmission events.

Results

We found that transmission dynamics among cases associated with LTCFs in WA changed over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, with variable introduction rates into LTCFs, but decreasing amplification within LTCFs. SARS-CoV-2 lineages circulating in LTCFs were similar to those circulating in communities at the same time. Transmission between staff and residents was bi-directional.

Conclusions

Understanding transmission dynamics within and between LTCFs using genomic epidemiology on a broad scale can assist in targeting policies and prevention efforts. Tracking facility-level outbreaks can help differentiate intra-facility outbreaks from high community transmission with repeated introduction events. Based on our study findings, methods for routine tree building and overlay of epidemiologic data for hypothesis generation by public health practitioners are recommended. Discrete trait analysis added valuable insight and can be considered when representative sequencing is performed. Cluster detection tools, especially those that rely on distance thresholds, may be of more limited use given current data capture and timeliness. Importantly, we noted a decrease in data capture from LTCFs over time. Depending on goals for use of genomic data, sentinel surveillance should be increased or targeted surveillance implemented to ensure available data for analysis.