bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioeconomic position and the effect of energy labelling on consumer behaviour: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Robinson Eric , Polden Megan , Langfield Tess , Clarke Katie , Calvert Lara , Colombet Zoé , O’Flaherty Martin , Marty Lucile , Tapper Katy , Jones Andrew
Published: February 2023

Background

There are well documented socioeconomic disparities in diet quality and obesity. Menu energy labelling is a public health policy designed to improve diet and reduce obesity. However, it is unclear whether the impact energy labelling has on consumer behaviour is socially equitable or differs based on socioeconomic position (SEP).

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental (between-subjects) and pre-post implementation field studies examining the impact of menu energy labelling on energy content of food and/or drink selections in higher vs. lower SEP groups.

Results

Seventeen studies were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analyses of 13 experimental studies that predominantly examined hypothetical food and drink choices showed that energy labelling tended to be associated with a small reduction in energy content of selections that did not differ based on participant SEP (X2(1) = 0.26, p = .610). Effect estimates for higher SEP SMD = 0.067 [95% CI: -0.092 to 0.226] and lower SEP SMD = 0.115 [95% CI: -0.006 to 0.237] were similar. A meta-analysis of 3 pre-post implementation studies of energy labelling in the real world showed that the effect energy labelling had on consumer behaviour did not significantly differ based on SEP (X2(1) = 0.22, p = .636). In higher SEP the effect was SMD = 0.032 [95% CI: -0.053 to 0.117] and in lower SEP the effect was SMD = -0.005 [95% CI: -0.051 to 0.041].

Conclusions

Overall there was no convincing evidence that the effect energy labelling has on consumer behaviour significantly differs based on SEP. Further research examining multiple indicators of SEP and quantifying the long-term effects of energy labelling on consumer behaviour in real-world settings is now required.

Review registration

Registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022312532) and OSF (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/W7RDB).
Blockage of glycolysis by targeting PFKFB3 suppresses the development of infantile hemangioma
Authors: Yang Kaiying , Qiu Tong , Zhou Jiangyuan , Gong Xue , Zhang Xuepeng , Lan Yuru , Zhang Zixin , Ji Yi
Published: February 2023

Background

Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common tumor among infants, but the exact pathogenesis of IH is largely unknown. Our previous study revealed that glucose metabolism may play an important role in the pathogenesis of IH and that the inhibition of the glycolytic key enzyme phosphofructokinase-1 suppresses angiogenesis in IH. 6-Phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) is a metabolic enzyme that converts fructose-6-bisphosphate to fructose-2,6-bisphosphate (F-2,6-BP), which is the most potent allosteric activator of the rate-limiting enzyme phosphofructokinase-1. This study was performed to explore the role of PFKFB3 in IH.

Methods

Microarray analysis was performed to screen the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between proliferating and involuting IH tissues. PFKFB3 expression was examined by western blot and immunohistochemistry analyses. Cell migration, apoptosis and tube formation were analyzed. Metabolic analyses were performed to investigate the effect of PFKFB3 inhibition by PFK15. Mouse models were established to examine the effect of PFKFB3 inhibition in vivo.

Results

PFKFB3 was identified as one of the most significant DEGs and was more highly expressed in proliferating IH tissues and hemangioma-derived endothelial cells (HemECs) than in involuting IH tissues and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, respectively. PFKFB3 inhibition by PFK15 suppressed HemEC glucose metabolism mainly by affecting glycolytic metabolite metabolism and decreasing the glycolytic flux. Moreover, PFK15 inhibited HemEC angiogenesis and migration and induced apoptosis via activation of the apoptosis pathway. Treatment with the combination of PFK15 with propranolol had a synergistic inhibitory effect on HemECs. Moreover, PFKFB3 knockdown markedly suppressed HemEC angiogenesis. Mechanistically, inhibition of PFKFB3 suppressed the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and induced apoptotic cell death. More importantly, the suppression of PFKFB3 by PFK15 or shPFKFB3 led to markedly reduced tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that PFKFB3 inhibition can suppress IH angiogenesis and induce apoptosis. Thus, targeting PFKFB3 may be a novel therapeutic strategy for IH.
Transcriptomics-proteomics Integration reveals alternative polyadenylation driving inflammation-related protein translation in patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Zhan Dongdong , Qu Shuang , Jiang Song , Gan Wenhua , Qin Weisong , Zheng Chunxia , Cheng Fang , Lu Yinghui , Liu Mingwei , Shi Jinsong , Liang Hongwei , Wang Yi , Qin Jun , Zen Ke , Liu Zhihong
Published: February 2023

Background

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a complex disease involving the upregulation of many inflammation-related proteins. Alternative polyadenylation (APA), a crucial post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism, has been proven to play vital roles in many inflammatory diseases. However, it is largely unknown whether and how APA exerts function in DN.

Methods

We performed transcriptomics and proteomics analysis of glomeruli samples isolated from 50 biopsy-proven DN patients and 25 control subjects. DaPars and QAPA algorithms were adopted to identify APA events from RNA-seq data. The qRT-PCR analysis was conducted to verify 3′UTR length alteration. Short and long 3ʹUTRs isoforms were also overexpressed in podocytes under hyperglycemia condition for examining protein expression.

Results

We detected transcriptome-wide 3′UTR APA events in DN, and found that APA-mediated 3ʹUTR lengthening of genes (APA genes) increased their expression at protein but not mRNA level. Increased protein level of 3′UTR lengthening gene was validated in podocytes under hyperglycemia condition. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that APA genes were enriched in inflammation-related biological processes including endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways, NF-κB signaling and autophagy. Further bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that 3′UTR APA of genes probably altered the binding sites for RNA-binding proteins, thus enhancing protein translation.

Conclusion

This study revealed for the first time that 3′UTR lengthening of APA genes contributed to the progression of DN by elevating the translation of corresponding proteins, providing new insight and a rich resource for investigating DN mechanisms.
School attendance and sexual and reproductive health outcomes among adolescent girls in Kenya: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Thirugnanasampanthar Sai Surabi , Embleton Lonnie , Di Ruggiero Erica , Braitstein Paula , Oduor Clement , Dibaba Wado Yohannes
Published: February 2023

Background

Given the high burden of adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes (SRH) and low levels of school attendance among adolescent girls in Kenya, this study sought to elucidate the association between school attendance and SRH outcomes among adolescent girls in Homa Bay and Narok counties.

Methods

This study uses baseline quantitative data from the mixed-methods evaluation of the In Their Hands (ITH) program which occurred between September to October 2018 in Homa Bay and Narok counties. In total, 1840 adolescent girls aged 15–19 years participated in the baseline survey, of which 1810 were included in the present analysis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between school attendance (in- versus out-of-school) and ever having sex, condom use during last sex, and ever pregnant, controlling for age, orphan status, income generation, religion, county, relationship status, and correct SRH knowledge.

Results

Across the 1810 participants included in our study, 61.3% were in-school and 38.7% were out-of-school. Compared to adolescent girls who were in-school, those out-of-school were more likely (AOR 5.74 95% CI 3.94, 8.46) to report ever having sex, less likely (AOR: 0.21, 95% CI 0.16, 0.31) to have used a condom during their last sexual intercourse, and more likely (AOR: 6.98, 95% CI 5.04, 9.74) to have ever been pregnant.

Conclusions

School attendance plays an integral role in adolescent girls’ SRH outcomes, and it is imperative that policy actors coordinate with the government and community to develop and implement initiatives that support adolescent girls’ school attendance and education.
Chondroitin sulfate alleviates osteoporosis caused by calcium deficiency by regulating lipid metabolism
Authors: Liu Tianshu , Yu Hai , Wang Shuai , Li Huimin , Du Xinyiran , He Xiaodong
Published: February 2023

The use of non-drug intervention for calcium deficiency has attracted attention in recent years. Although calcium carbonate is the preferred raw material for calcium supplementation, there are few reports on the mechanism of the combined action of chondroitin sulfate and calcium to alleviate osteoporosis from the perspective of gut microbiota and metabolomics. In this study, a rat model of osteoporosis was established by feeding a low-calcium diet. The intestinal microbiota abundance, fecal and plasma metabolite expression levels of rats fed a basal diet, a low-calcium diet, a low-calcium diet plus calcium carbonate, and a low-calcium diet plus chondroitin sulfate were compared. The results showed that compared with the low calcium group, the calcium content and bone mineral density of femur were significantly increased in the calcium carbonate and chondroitin sulfate groups. 16 S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics analysis showed that chondroitin sulfate intervention could reduce short-chain fatty acid synthesis of intestinal flora, slow down inflammatory response, inhibit osteoclast differentiation, promote calcium absorption and antioxidant mechanism, and alleviate osteoporosis in low-calcium feeding rats. Correlation analysis showed that the selected intestinal flora was significantly correlated with metabolites enriched in feces and plasma. This study provides scientific evidence of the potential impact of chondroitin sulfate as a dietary supplement for patients with osteoporosis.
Impact of aging on meningeal gene expression
Authors: Neutzner Melanie , Kohler Corina , Frank Stephan , Killer Hanspeter E. , Neutzner Albert
Published: February 2023

Background

The three-layered meninges cover and protect the central nervous system and form the interface between cerebrospinal fluid and the brain. They are host to a lymphatic system essential for maintaining fluid dynamics inside the cerebrospinal fluid-filled subarachnoid space and across the brain parenchyma via their connection to glymphatic structures. Meningeal fibroblasts lining and traversing the subarachnoid space have direct impact on the composition of the cerebrospinal fluid through endocytotic uptake as well as extensive protein secretion. In addition, the meninges are an active site for immunological processes and act as gatekeeper for immune cells entering the brain. During aging in mice, lymphatic drainage from the brain is less efficient contributing to neurodegenerative processes. Aging also affects the immunological status of the meninges, with increasing numbers of T cells, changing B cell make-up, and altered macrophage complement.

Methods

We employed RNASeq to measure gene expression and to identify differentially expressed genes in meninges isolated from young and aged mice. Using Ingenuity pathway, GO term, and MeSH analyses, we identified regulatory pathways and cellular functions in meninges affected by aging.

Results

Aging had profound impact on meningeal gene expression. Pathways related to innate as well as adaptive immunity were affected. We found evidence for increasing numbers of T and B lymphocytes and altered activity profiles for macrophages and other myeloid cells. Furthermore, expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine genes increased with aging. Similarly, the complement system seemed to be more active in meninges of aged mice. Altered expression of solute carrier genes pointed to age-dependent changes in cerebrospinal fluid composition. In addition, gene expression for secreted proteins showed age-dependent changes, in particular, genes related to extracellular matrix composition and organization were affected.

Conclusions

Aging has profound effects on meningeal gene expression; thereby affecting the multifaceted functions meninges perform to maintain the homeostasis of the central nervous system. Thus, age-dependent neurodegenerative processes and cognitive decline are potentially in part driven by altered meningeal function.
p53 aberration and TFE3 gene amplification may be predictors of adverse prognosis in epithelioid angiomyolipoma of the kidney
Authors: Zhang Yanning , Wei Xuejing , Teng Xiaojing , Chen Guangyong
Published: February 2023

Background

Although epithelioid angiomyolipoma of the kidney has been studied by several groups, the reported prevalence of malignant behavior remains uncertain and there are not yet definitive predictive biomarkers. We evaluated the behavior of renal epithelioid angiomyolipoma in a consecutive series in a single institution and investigated the prognostic value of aberrant p53 expression and TFE3 gene abnormality.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 14 epithelioid angiomyolipomas, most with pure or close to pure epithelioid components, comprising 12 consecutive cases who had attended our institution and two consultation cases. Fluorescence in situ hybridization with TFE3 break-apart probe was performed on 14 cases. The 14 cases were also labeled for p53 and TFE3 by immunohistochemistry. All cases were followed up.

Results

Three of the epithelioid angiomyolipomas were strongly positive for TFE3 and two had a mutant expression of p53. Although no TFE3 gene rearrangement was found, the two tumors with strong TFE3 expression showed TFE3 gene amplification. Follow-up details were available for seven of the 12 consecutive cases: two of them had developed metastases and died (29%), their mean overall survival was 41 months, and both had mutant p53 expression. The two consultation cases with TFE3 gene amplification developed recurrence/metastasis within 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions

Our series study from a single institution presented the prevalence of malignant behavior in pure epithelioid angiomyolipomas, although the small number of cases with follow-up data greatly reduced the accuracy. p53 may be a prognostic marker for epithelioid angiomyolipoma. Cases with TFE3 gene amplification had poor prognoses.
HNRNPL induced circFAM13B increased bladder cancer immunotherapy sensitivity via inhibiting glycolysis through IGF2BP1/PKM2 pathway
Authors: Lv Jiancheng , Li Kai , Yu Hao , Han Jie , Zhuang Juntao , Yu Ruixi , Cheng Yidong , Song Qiang , Bai Kexin , Cao Qiang , Yang Haiwei , Yang Xiao , Lu Qiang
Published: February 2023

Background

The response rate to immunotherapy in patients with bladder cancer (BCa) remains relatively low. Considering the stable existence and important functions in tumour metabolism, the role of circRNAs in regulating immune escape and immunotherapy sensitivity is receiving increasing attention.

Methods

Circular RNA (circRNA) sequencing was performed on five pairs of BCa samples, and circFAM13B (hsa_circ_0001535) was screened out because of its remarkably low expression in BCa. Further mRNA sequencing was conducted, and the association of circFAM13B with glycolysis process and CD8+ T cell activation was confirmed. The functions of circFAM13B were verified by proliferation assays, glycolysis assays, BCa cells-CD8+ T cell co-culture assays and tumorigenesis experiment among human immune reconstitution NOG mice. Bioinformatic analysis, RNA–protein pull down, mass spectrometry, RNA immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assay and fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed to validate the HNRNPL/circFAM13B/IGF2BP1/PKM2 cascade.

Results

Low expression of circFAM13B was observed in BCa, and it was positively associated with lower tumour stage and better prognosis among patients with BCa. The function of CD8+ T cells was promoted by circFAM13B, and it could attenuate the glycolysis of BCa cells and reverse the acidic tumour microenvironment (TME). The production of granzyme B and IFN-γ was improved, and the immunotherapy (PD-1 antibodies) sensitivity was facilitated by the inhibition of acidic TME. Mechanistically, circFAM13B was competitively bound to the KH3-4 domains of IGF2BP1 and subsequently reduced the binding of IGF2BP1 and PKM2 3’UTR. Thus, the stability of the PKM2 mRNA decreased, and glycolysis-induced acidic TME was inhibited. The generation of circFAM13B was explored by confirming whether heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein L (HNRNPL) could promote circFAM13B formation via pre-mRNA back-splicing.

Conclusions

HNRNPL-induced circFAM13B could repress immune evasion and enhance immunotherapy sensitivity by inhibiting glycolysis and acidic TME in BCa through the novel circFAM13B/IGF2BP1/PKM2 cascade. Therefore, circFAM13B can be used as a biomarker for guiding the immunotherapy among patients with BCa.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: SLFN5 promotes reversible epithelial and mesenchymal transformation in ovarian cancer
Authors: Xu Qiao Ping , Deng Kui , Zhang Zhen , Shang Hongkai
Published: February 2023

Ovarian cancer is a disease with increasing incidence worldwide, and there is an urgent need for chemotherapy and biological targeted therapy. Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is an important initiation stage for tumor cells to acquire the ability to invade and metastasize. A growing number of findings suggest that human Schlafen family member 5(SLFN5) plays a key role in malignancy. However, the role of SLFN5 in ovarian cancer cells has not been fully elucidated. Samples were collected from patients with ovarian cancer diagnosed in Hangzhou First People's Hospital, and the expression of SLFN5 was detected by fluorescence quantitative PCR. The relationship between SLFN5 expression and the progression and malignancy of ovarian cancer was analyzed by using the expression profile data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The mRNA expression levels of SLFN5 related upstream and downstream signaling pathways were studied by fluorescence quantitative PCR. Silencing SLFN5 was performed by siRNA transfection. The expression of SLFN5 and transfer-related proteins was examined by Western blot. Transwell and wound healing experiments investigated the migration and invasion ability of ovarian cancer cells. TCGA database analysis results showed that in the population with high SLFN5 expression, compared with the group with low SLFN5 expression, OS was worse (P = 0.011). SLFN5 silencing had a significant inhibitory effect on EMT and invasion movement of ovarian cancer cells. RT-PCR method was used to detect the mRNA changes of SLFN5 in ovarian cancer tissue and adjacent tissue. It was found that the expression of SLFN5 in ovarian cancer tissue was increased, with a significant difference (P < 0.05). Together, these results suggest that SLFN5 may play a synergistic role in tumorigenesis and development of ovarian cancer cells, providing a potential target for future drug development for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Apicomplexan haemoparasites in domestic cats in Romania
Authors: Panait Luciana Cătălina , Ionică Angela Monica , Cazan Cristina Daniela , Coroian Mircea , Diacu Ana Maria , Boncea Ana Maria , Mateescu Cosmin , Mihalca Andrei Daniel
Published: February 2023

Background

Apicomplexan haemoparasites are protozoans that infect a variety of domestic and wild animal species, as well as humans. Data regarding haemoprotozoans in domestic cats are limited; therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. in domestic cats in Romania using molecular tools.

Methods

Blood samples from 371 domestic cats were screened for the presence of piroplasmids. All samples that yielded a visible band in agarose gels were subsequently tested by specific assays targeting the 18S rDNA of Babesia spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. Moreover, nested PCR assays targeting mitochondrial genes of Babesia spp. were used for screening of all Babesia spp. 18S rDNA-positive samples.

Results

From the total number of sampled cats, 19.4% were positive in the PCR assay targeting piroplasmids. Babesia spp. were identified in 15.1% of cats, while 0.5% were positive for Hepatozoon spp. Molecular analyses confirmed the presence of Babesia canis. No samples were positive for Cytauxzoon spp.

Conclusions

The high infection rates of domestic cats with Babesia spp. and the need for species differentiation highlight the importance of mitochondrial genes as targets for molecular protocols.
The performance of the MODY calculator in a non-Caucasian, mixed-race population diagnosed with diabetes mellitus before 35 years of age
Authors: Santomauro Augusto Cezar , Magalhães Áurea Luiza Fernandes , Motta Flávia Tedesco , de Santana Lucas Santos , Franco Pedro Campos , de Freitas Silvia Maria , Sanchez Jeniffer Johana Duarte , Costa-Riquetto Aline Dantas , Teles Milena G.
Published: February 2023

Background

A maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) calculator has been described and validated for use in European Caucasians. This study evaluated its performance in Brazilians diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM) before 35 years of age.

Methods

The electronic records of 391 individuals were reviewed in 2020 at the diabetes clinic of a quaternary hospital in São Paulo were analyzed: 231 with type 1 DM (T1DM), 46 with type 2 (T2DM) and 114 with MODY. The MODY calculator was applied to the three groups. A receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated to obtain cut-off points for this population.

Results

The principal differences between the MODY and the T1DM and T2DM groups were body mass index, a positive family history of diabetes and mean HbA1c level. Age at diagnosis in the MODY group was only significantly different compared to the T2DM group. Specificity and sensitivity were good for the cut-off points of 40%, 50% and 60%, with the accuracy of the model for any of these cut-off points being > 95%.

Conclusion

The capacity of the calculator to identify Brazilian patients with MODY was good. Values ≥ 60% proved useful for selecting candidates for MODY genetic testing, with good sensitivity and specificity.
Aberrant JAK-STAT signaling-mediated chromatin remodeling impairs the sensitivity of NK/T-cell lymphoma to chidamide
Authors: Chen Jinghong , Zuo Zhixiang , Gao Yan , Yao Xiaosai , Guan Peiyong , Wang Yali , Li Zhimei , Liu Zhilong , Hong Jing Han , Deng Peng , Chan Jason Yongsheng , Cheah Daryl Ming Zhe , Lim Jingquan , Chai Kelila Xin Ye , Chia Burton Kuan Hui , Pang Jane Wan Lu , Koh Joanna , Huang Dachuan , He Haixia , Sun Yichen , Liu Lizhen , Liu Shini , Huang Yuhua , Wang Xiaoxiao , You Hua , Saraf Sahil Ajit , Grigoropoulos Nicholas Francis , Li Xiaoqiu , Bei Jinxin , Kang Tiebang , Lim Soon Thye , Teh Bin Tean , Huang Huiqiang , Ong Choon Kiat , Tan Jing
Published: February 2023

Background

Natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (NKTL) is a rare type of aggressive and heterogeneous non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) with a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Therefore, there is an urgent need to exploit potential novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of NKTL. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor chidamide was recently approved for treating relapsed/refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) patients. However, its therapeutic efficacy in NKTL remains unclear.

Methods

We performed a phase II clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of chidamide in 28 relapsed/refractory NKTL patients. Integrative transcriptomic, chromatin profiling analysis and functional studies were performed to identify potential predictive biomarkers and unravel the mechanisms of resistance to chidamide. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to validate the predictive biomarkers in tumors from the clinical trial.

Results

We demonstrated that chidamide is effective in treating relapsed/refractory NKTL patients, achieving an overall response and complete response rate of 39 and 18%, respectively. In vitro studies showed that hyperactivity of JAK-STAT signaling in NKTL cell lines was associated with the resistance to chidamide. Mechanistically, our results revealed that aberrant JAK-STAT signaling remodels the chromatin and confers resistance to chidamide. Subsequently, inhibition of JAK-STAT activity could overcome resistance to chidamide by reprogramming the chromatin from a resistant to sensitive state, leading to synergistic anti-tumor effect in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, our clinical data demonstrated that combinatorial therapy with chidamide and JAK inhibitor ruxolitinib is effective against chidamide-resistant NKTL. In addition, we identified TNFRSF8 (CD30), a downstream target of the JAK-STAT pathway, as a potential biomarker that could predict NKTL sensitivity to chidamide.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that chidamide, in combination with JAK-STAT inhibitors, can be a novel targeted therapy in the standard of care for NKTL.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02878278. Registered 25 August 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02878278
Using random forest to predict antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations of nontyphoidal Salmonella in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Chia-Chi , Hung Yu-Ting , Chou Che-Yu , Hsuan Shih-Ling , Chen Zeng-Weng , Chang Pei-Yu , Jan Tong-Rong , Tung Chun-Wei
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health issue and surveillance of AMR can be useful for understanding AMR trends and planning intervention strategies. Salmonella, widely distributed in food-producing animals, has been considered the first priority for inclusion in the AMR surveillance program by the World Health Organization (WHO). Recent advances in rapid and affordable whole-genome sequencing (WGS) techniques lead to the emergence of WGS as a one-stop test to predict the antimicrobial susceptibility. Since the variation of sequencing and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) measurement methods could result in different results, this study aimed to develop WGS-based random forest models for predicting MIC values of 24 drugs using data generated from the same laboratories in Taiwan. The WGS data have been transformed as a feature vector of 10-mers for machine learning. Based on rigorous validation and independent tests, a good performance was obtained with an average mean absolute error (MAE) less than 1 for both validation and independent test. Feature selection was then applied to identify top-ranked 10-mers that can further improve the prediction performance. For surveillance purposes, the genome sequence-based machine learning methods could be utilized to monitor the difference between predicted and experimental MIC, where a large difference might be worthy of investigation on the emerging genomic determinants.
Prediction model of agricultural water quality based on optimized logistic regression algorithm
Authors: Gai RongLi , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the problem that the linear regression of the traditional linear water quality prediction model is not robust enough and the prediction accuracy cannot be guaranteed in the presence of interference, this paper proposes an agricultural water quality prediction model based on the Momentum algorithm to optimize the logistic regression algorithm (LRM algorithm). The model uses the Momentum algorithm to optimize the logistic regression algorithm to quickly adjust the misclassified samples. When the object encounters a local optimum in the process of falling, the introduction of momentum makes it easy for the next update to jump out of the local optimum with the help of the last large gradient. In this paper, the performance of the proposed model is evaluated on 4 real data sets. The experimental results show that the LRM algorithm proposed in this paper improves the prediction accuracy of the existing algorithm by an average of 1.11 percentage points.Compared with KNN and other traditional prediction algorithms, LRM not only speeds up the convergence rate of the algorithm, but also reduces the steady-state error and improves the prediction accuracy of water quality, suitable for data mining of complex water quality data, The experiment verifies the feasibility of this method in predicting the actual agricultural water quality and even in predicting and warning the residents drinking water.
A Hardy–Hilbert-type integral inequality involving two multiple upper-limit functions
Authors: Luo Ricai , Yang Bicheng , He Leping
Published: February 2023

By means of the weight functions, the idea of introducing parameters and the technique of real analysis, a new Hardy–Hilbert-type integral inequality with the homogeneous kernel$\frac{1}{(x + y)^{\lambda}}\ (\lambda > 0)$1(x+y)λ(λ>0)involving two multiple upper-limit functions is obtained. The equivalent statements of the best possible constant factor related to the beta and gamma functions are considered. As applications, the equivalent forms and the case of a nonhomogeneous kernel are deduced. Some particular inequalities and the operator expressions are provided.
Efficacy of mindfulness and goal setting interventions for increasing resilience and reducing smoking in lower socio-economic groups: randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: De Zylva Reece , Mortimer Elissa , Miller Emma , Tsourtos George , Lawn Sharon , Wilson Carlene , Karnon Jonathan , Woodman Richard , Ward Paul
Published: February 2023

Background

Smoking and resulting health problems disproportionately impact low socioeconomic status (SES) individuals. Building resilience presents an approach to ‘closing the gap’. Mindfulness-based interventions and setting realistic goals are preferred in low socioeconomic communities. We aim to test if these interventions, delivered online and consolidated with peer support offered via ex-smokers, are successful in promoting smoking cessation and resilience. Our conceptualisation of resilience encompasses the inner capacity/skills and external resources (e.g., social support) which smokers utilise to bounce back from adversity. We include a process evaluation of barriers/facilitators to interventions and cost-effectiveness analysis (from health system perspective).

Methods

We plan a four-arm parallel 12-month RCT with a 6-month follow-up to test the efficacy of three group-based interventions each followed by peer support. Arm 1: mindfulness-integrated cognitive behavioural therapy; Arm 2: mindfulness training; Arm 3: setting realistic goals; Arm 4: active control group directed to quit services. All interventions will be administered online. Participants are adult smokers in Australia (N = 812) who have an average weekly household income less than $457AUD or receive welfare benefits. Group-based interventions will occur over 6 months, followed by 6 months of forum-based peer support. Primary outcome: self-reported 14-day period prevalence of smoking abstinence at 6 months, with remote biochemical verification of saliva cotinine (< 30 ng/mL). Secondary outcomes include: internal resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-25); external resilience (ENRICHD social support tool); quality adjusted life years (EQ-5D-5L); self-efficacy for smoking abstinence (Smoking-Abstinence Self-Efficacy Questionnaire); motivation to quit smoking (Biener and Abrams Contemplation Ladder); nicotine dependence (Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependency); equanimity (Equanimity Scale-16); stress (Perceived Stress Scale-10); goal assessment/attainment (Problems and Goals Assessment Scale).

Discussion

This study is the first to compare resilience interventions for low SES smokers which have been identified by them as acceptable. Our various repeated measures and process evaluation will facilitate exploration of mechanisms of impact. We intervene within the novel framework of the Psychosocial Model of Resilience, applying a promising paradigm to address a critical and inequitable public health problem.

Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ID: ACTRN12621000445875, registered 19 April 2021 (https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=381007&isReview=true). The Universal Trial Number is U1111-1261–8951
High-frequency S and S-coda waves at ocean-bottom seismometers
Authors: Takemura Shunsuke , Emoto Kentaro , Yamaya Lina
Published: February 2023

To clarify the characteristics of high-frequency (> 1 Hz) S and S-coda waves at ocean-bottom seismometers (OBSs), we analyzed seismograms observed at permanent OBSs and inland broadband seismometers around the Kii Peninsula in southwest Japan along the Nankai Trough. The coda amplitudes (both horizontal and vertical) at the OBSs were much larger than those at the inland rock-site stations. Because coda amplitudes relative to those at inland rock-site stations have been used as site-amplification factors, large site amplifications for both components can be expected due to the presence of thick oceanic sediments just below the OBSs; however, the observed maximum S-wave amplitudes in the vertical component exhibited similar attenuation trends against epicentral distances at both OBS and inland stations. To clarify the causes of this discrepancy, we conducted numerical simulations of seismic wave propagation using various three-dimensional seismic velocity structure models. The results demonstrated that coda waves at OBSs mostly comprise multiple scattered waves within a thick (> 2 km) sedimentary layer; consequently, coda amplitudes at OBSs become much larger than those at inland rock-site stations. Our numerical simulations also confirmed the generation of large coda amplitudes at regions with seawater depths ≥ 4 km, where no OBS was deployed. However, the thick sedimentary layer and seawater have limited effects on maximum S-wave amplitudes at the OBSs. Given that the effects of a thick sedimentary layer and seawater on S and S-coda waves differ, we concluded that the coda-normalization technique for site-amplification correction against a rock-site station could not be applied if stations are located within regions above the thick sedimentary layer or deeper sea depths. The site amplifications at the OBSs were corrected according to the horizontal-to-vertical ratios at each OBS; we adjusted the simulated horizontal envelopes at the OBSs using these ratios of the observed S-coda waves. As well as inland seismometers, the site-corrected simulation results practically reproduced the observed high-frequency envelopes at OBSs.

Graphical Abstract
Biocontrol of Fusarium equiseti using chitosan nanoparticles combined with Trichoderma longibrachiatum and Penicillium polonicum
Authors: El-Morsy EL-Sayed M. , Elmalahy Yomna S. , Mousa Mohamed M. A.
Published: February 2023

A safe and ecofriendly biocontrol of pathogenic Fusarium equiseti was developed based on chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) combined with Trichoderma longibrachiatum and Penicillium polonicum. Two strains of F. equiseti which were isolated from wilting tomato plant as well as three antagonistic fungi including Trichoderma longibrachiatum and two strains of Penicillium polonicum were isolated from the surrounding soil. All the isolated pathogenic and antagonistic fungi were identified using genomic DNA sequences. The antifungal activity of the three antagonistic fungi were studied against the two strains of F. equiseti. Also, CNPs which were prepared according to the ionic gelation method using sodium tripolyphosphate anions in acetic acid solution were used to enhance the antifungal activity of the three antagonistic fungi. The results exhibit that, combination of T. longibrachiatum with CNPs and P. polonicum with CNPs achieve high antifungal activity against F. equiseti by an inhibition rate equal to 71.05% and 66.7%, respectively.
Method shifting from long to short term contraceptives and its associated factors among reproductive age women, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Desalegn Niguse , Yenit Melaku Kindie , Habitu Yohannes Ayanaw
Published: February 2023

Background

Even if long term contraceptives are more effective, efficient and tolerable choices, method shifting from long to short term contraceptives continued as a global challenge including Ethiopia. There is limited evidence on the proportion and factors associated with method shifting from long term to short term contraceptives in the country, specifically in the study area. Therefore, this study assessed the proportion and associated factors of method shifting from long term to short term contraceptives in Gondar city administration, northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

Institution based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to June 2018 among reproductive age women who were long term contraceptive users. A total of 407 women of reproductive age were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Data were entered through Epi Info version 3.5.3 and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to investigate factors associated with method shifting. Adjusted Odds Ratio with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were used to show the presence and strength of association. Variables with P-value of < 0.05 in the multivariable model were considered to have statistically significant association with method shifting.

Results

The overall proportion of method shifting from long to short term contraceptives was 48.5% [CI: 43.8, 53.3]. Having secondary level educational status [AOR = 0.18, CI = 0.07, 0.51], using long acting contraceptives for limiting purposes [AOR = 0.26, CI = 0.11, 0.60], and having enough counseling on long acting contraceptives during ANC visits [AOR = 0.20, CI = 0.08, 0.50] were factors negatively associated with method shifting, while receiving information about long acting contraceptives from colleague [AOR = 6.67, CI = 1.89, 23.52] was positively associated with method shifting.

Conclusion

The proportion of method shifting from long to short term contraceptives was 48.5%. Women’s educational level, source of information, the aim behind using long acting contraceptives, and counseling adequacy were the main factors associated with method shifting. Therefore, health care providers better consider women’s educational level, provision of accurate information and adequate counseling are crucial in the provision of long acting contraceptive methods.
Survey of food offered to United Kingdom haemodialysis patients attending for dialysis sessions in main dialysis centres and satellite units and international comparison
Authors: Davenport Andrew
Published: February 2023

Background

Haemodialysis (HD) patients are at increased risk of frailty, sarcopenia and protein energy wasting, all associated with increased mortality. Most of the dialysis day is taken up with travelling to and from dialysis centres and dialysis treatment. The International Society of Nutrition and Metabolism (ISNM) recommend that meals or supplements should be part of standard clinical practice when patients attending for dialysis.

Results

We surveyed adult UK centres to determine the provision of food to dialysis patients in the United Kingdom (UK). A hot meal was provided by six (8.7%) of the 69 UK adult units, although 16 (23.2%) main centres would potentially provide meals to a restricted number of malnourished patients. Forty-seven (68.1%) centres provided sandwiches, although this was restricted in eight main centres, and 26.2% of units did not provide sandwiches to patients in their satellite dialysis centres. Biscuits were the only nutrition routinely offered in 15 (21.7%) of the main dialysis units, 41.3% of satellite units. Meals were more likely to be offered in Northern Ireland and Scotland compared to England, and 38% of the main dialysis units in England, and 58% of their satellite centres did not routinely offer patients a sandwich compared to none or one centre in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Conclusions

Despite an increasing older, more frail dialysis population in the UK, food provision for dialysis patients has reduced, particularly in England, with < 10% of centres routinely offering hot food, and > 50% of dialysis units now only offering biscuits to their satellite dialysis patients.
Sub-lethal effects of indigenous isolate of Spodoptera frugiperda nucleopolyhedrovirus on fall armyworm growth and reproduction in India
Authors: Onkarappa Dhanyakumar , Pandi Ram Kumar , Gopal Ashwitha , Thiruvengadam Venkatesan , Muthugounder Mohan , Nayyar Nishtha , Gopalsamy Sivakumar
Published: February 2023

Background

Baculoviruses are specific pathogens which can lethally infect several lepidopteran pests. However, the sub-lethal effects of baculoviruses are also highly debilitating for the host. The objective of the study was to demonstrate the sub-lethal effects of an indigenous strain ofSpodoptera frugiperdanucleopolyhedrovirus (SpfrNPV) infecting fall armyworm in India.

Results

As a result of larval infection, the larval developmental time was significantly prolonged as compared to the untreated insects. The percentage of pupal mortality ranged from 40.74 to 72.73 at varying doses of SpfrNPV and recorded low pupal weight in all the treatments than control. The fertility and fecundity of infected adult moths was significantly reduced when compared to the untreated insects in a concentration dependent fashion. Sub-lethal effects of baculoviral infection on different biological parameters were studied. Mean developmental period of infected 3rd and 4th larval instars was significantly higher (F = 2.945;F = 18.414;df = 5, 20;P < 0.05) in SpfrNPV infected larvae than the control at all tested viral concentrations. The percentage of pupal mortality ranged from 40.74 to 72.73 in the lowest and highest concentrations of SpfrNPV, respectively. Developmental period of male pupae was found to be significantly longer in infected groups than the uninfected ones. The infected adults had significantly reduced longevity in both males ranged from 3.5 to 5.75 (F = 6.273;P = 0.002) and females ranged from 3.5 to7.00 (F = 13.652;P = 0.001). Further, the mates of virus-treated adults showed a highly reduced egg production (F = 31.255;P < 0.05) ranged from 150.03 to 338.33 and the larval emerging ranged from 71.11 to 227.89 (F = 74.52;P < 0.05), which was again significantly lower than the control. The percentage of egg hatching ranged from 47.40 to 86.41%.

Conclusions

The sub-lethal effect of SpfrNPV has observed on the growth and development and also reduced percentage of egg hatching in the subsequent generation. Hence, this indigenous SpfrNPV strain can be used in the sustainable and resilience IPM program. Further studies under open field conditions are still needed.
A review article on neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory role of vitamin-D3 in elderly COVID-19 patients
Authors: Tripathi Amit Kumar , Mishra Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2023

Vitamin D3 is a secosteroid, broad-spectrum immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory hormone produced either by the internal subcutaneous pathway in the presence of ultraviolet B (UVB) rays or by the external pathway in the form of supplements. Vitamin D3 deficiency is a common and reversible contributor to mortality and morbidity among critically ill patients, including Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other viral infections. The major functions of vitamin D3 are inhibiting the proinflammatory pathways, including nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (ILs-6), interleukin-18 (ILs-18), and tumour necrosis factor (TNF), preventing the loss of neural sensation in COVID-19, maintaining respiratory homeostasis, and acting as an antiviral, antimalarial, and antihypertensive agent. Vitamin D3 has an important role in reversing the COVID-19 infection in patients who have previously suffered from a neurological disease, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson disease, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, stroke, cardiovascular problems, headache, sleep-associated disorder, and others. Moreover, vitamin D3 plays a key role in regulating the gene expression of different pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition to the information provided above, the current review article provides the most recent information on Vitamin D against COVID-19 with comorbid neurological disorders. Furthermore, we present the most recent advancement and molecular mechanism of action of vitamin D3. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders are comorbid conditions, and vitamin D3 is a critical regulator of COVID-19 infection during these conditions. In the midst of the COVID-19 epidemic, factors such as sex, latitudes, nutrition, demography, pollution, and gut microbiota warrants for additional research on vitamin D supplements.
Acute aortic dissection with an aberrant right subclavian artery resulting in rapid false lumen enlargement: a case report
Authors: Kasahara Hirofumi , Shin Hankei , Inoue Yoshito
Published: February 2023

Background

An aberrant right subclavian artery complicated by acute aortic dissection has been reported. Aneurysmal degeneration in the descending aorta adjacent to the Kommerell diverticulum in older patients has also been reported. There are concerns regarding the anatomic and pathological aspects of an aberrant right subclavian artery accompanying the Kommerell diverticulum with respect the surgical strategy for acute aortic dissection.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 79-year-old man with an aberrant right subclavian artery who developed acute aortic dissection (DeBakey IIIa) and rapid enlargement of the false lumen with deteriorating dysphagia and back pain. Total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique was performed. The aberrant right subclavian artery was closed using a stent graft proximally and was ligated distally at the right side of the posterior mediastinum. To prevent injury to the esophagus, the aberrant right subclavian artery was identified by lifting the right side of the thoracic wall using a thoracotomy device for internal thoracic artery harvest to expose the dorsal circumference of the superior vena cava. Additionally, the right subclavian artery was reconstructed using an extra-anatomical bypass.

Conclusions

This surgical strategy could be useful in patients with an aberrant right subclavian artery and the Kommerell diverticulum who require total arch replacement.