bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultra-processed food staples dominate mainstream U.S. supermarkets. Americans more than Europeans forced to choose between health and cost
Authors: Amaraggi Bertrand , Wood Wendy , Guinovart Martín Laura , Giménez Sánchez Jaime , Fleta Sánchez Yolanda , de la Garza Puentes Andrea
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The United States (U.S.) is the leading country in ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption, accounting for 60% of caloric intake, compared to a range of 14 to 44% in Europe. Given the increasingly evident health risks of UPF consumption, this is a major health problem. Common UPFs include soft drinks, snacks, processed meats, cookies, and candy. We hypothesized that even basic staple foods in the United States are ultra-processed and aimed to study the UPF prevalence in food staples from popular U.S. supermarkets compared with European countries.

METHODOLOGY

We analyzed staple food products (bread, canned goods, cereals, eggs, milk, vegetables, and yogurt) stocked in U.S. supermarket chains (Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods), France (Carrefour), and Spain (Mercadona). Using an algorithm that identifies UPF values based on the NOVA and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations guidelines, we identified the UPF prevalence and average number of UPF markers (cosmetic ingredients/additives).

RESULTS

The prevalence of UPFs in budget-friendly supermarkets, Walmart, and Target, is 41-42% higher than Whole Foods, a store focused on quality. Furthermore, UPFs in Walmart and Target have 75% and 57% more UPF markers, respectively, than UPFs in Whole Foods. Around 58% of staples in U.S. leading supermarkets are ultra-processed, which is 41% more than supermarkets in Europe. Furthermore, the U.S. UPFs contain 41% more UPF markers than their EU counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Most of the staple food products at mainstream U.S. budget-friendly retailers are ultra-processed, which is not the case at a more premium, quality focused store. Compared to supermarkets in Europe, the U.S. mainstream supermarkets have more UPFs, and those foods also have more UPF markers. Making healthy food choices in the United States is a challenge that is compromised by the high availability and accessibility of UPFs, even among everyday products that constitute the dominant part of the diet of a population. The European model shows the possibility of decreasing the UPF availability in large supermarkets. American consumers need more tools and guidance to identify UPFs along with greater regulation of UPF products to prioritize healthy choices and reduce UPF availability.
One effect and two causes: Growth acceleration and breast cancer risk after hormone replacement therapy
Authors: Hölzel Dieter , Schlesinger-Raab Anne , Halfter Kathrin
Published: February 2024

Background

An increased risk for breast cancer (BC) following hormone replacement therapy (HT) with estrogen and progesterone in women has been reported in several studies. However, HTs are associated with two distinct effects, a BC risk (RF) and an acceleration of BC growth (GAF). The interaction of both effects is analyzed.

Methods

Using data from the U.S. population on BC incidence and life expectancy specific cohorts and their disease trajectories are modelled. First, age-specific BCs are randomly generated for the age interval 50-80 years based on public data. Second, this simulated cohort subsequently receives a HT over 4 years that accelerates the growth of prevalent BCs. In a third cohort additional BCs are simulated caused by HT under treatment. The cumulative incidence of BCs is modelled for up to 30 years using different assumptions on BC growth duration, GAF and RF, as well as the duration of HT. The Women’s Health Initiative Study (WHI-S) is also simulated in a fourth cohort assuming a GAF 1.4 and RF 2.0.

Results

Studies modelling the risk of BC after HT imply two main findings: First, the growth of prevalent BCs is accelerated in parallel to the start of HT. This results in an increased BC incidence where the relative risk is equivalent to the GAF. The duration of HT defines the turning point of this increase. The second finding demonstrates that during the 15 years of BC growth an inherent RF for BC through HTs becomes observable only after a comparable delay. The combined effect results in an overlap of age-specific BCs, which develop at the same time, both growing faster under HT.

Varying parameters can explain different results in the WHI-S. According to the WHI almost 6 million women decided to discontinue or not to start HT. This offers a valid explanation (assuming a GAF 2) for the 10% decline in incidence around 2002. Estimates which report one million additional BCs associated with HT in Western countries since 1990 can thus, for the most part, be attributed to more rapidly growing prevalent BCs.

Conclusion

HT accelerates the growth of prevalent BCs and can also cause BCs which become symptomatic after 10 or more years. In combination these effects increase BC incidence. Differentiated information on these inherent risks and benefits should support shared decision-making for HT.
Epigenomic profiling of active regulatory elements by enrichment of unmodified CpG dinucleotides
Authors: Tosti Luca , Mould Calum , Gatehouse Imogen , Camargo Anyela , Smith Anthony , Ubych Krystian , Laird Peter W , Kennefick Jack , Neely Robert K
Published: February 2024

Current approaches for the study of DNA methylation and other modified bases focus on the modified fraction of the genome and are particularly well-suited to the detection of DNA hypermethylation. However, the study of hypomethylation (loss of DNA methylation), which is typically associated with markers of active chromatin, has been largely overlooked, in part, due to the lack of a suitable methodology. We present an enrichment-based and bisulfite-free approach for epigenomic profiling named "Active-Seq" (Azide Click Tagging for In Vitro Epigenomic sequencing) that achieves genome-wide profiling of DNA, by enriching for non-modified CpG sites using a mutated methyltransferase enzyme. We show that the genomic regions enriched by Active-Seq overlap with promoters, enhancers and partially methylated domains, all of which have had their methylation status linked to the development and progression of diseases. Active-Seq is a fast epigenetic profiling platform with a simple and streamlined workflow, performed in tandem with sequencing library preparation. The enzymatic chemistry is non-damaging toward the DNA which is critical for working with low concentration DNA input and will facilitate the future development of multiomics assays. We demonstrate robust and reproducible performance of Active-Seq using low DNA input in cell lines, liquid biopsies (cell-free DNA, cfDNA) and formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue.
Functional Characterisation of the ATOH1 Molecular Subtype Indicates a Pro-Metastatic Role in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Catozzi Alessia , Peiris-Pagès Maria , Humphrey Sam , Revill Mitchell , Morgan Derrick , Roebuck Jordan , Chen Yitao , Davies-Williams Bethan , Lallo Alice , Galvin Melanie , Pearce Simon P , Kerr Alastair , Priest Lynsey , Foy Victoria , Carter Mathew , Caeser Rebecca , Chan Joseph , Rudin Charles M. , Blackhall Fiona , Frese Kristopher K , Dive Caroline , Simpson Kathryn L
Published: February 2024

Molecular subtypes of Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) have been described based on differential expression of transcription factors (TFs)ASCL1, NEUROD1,POU2F3and immune-related genes. We previously reported an additional subtype based on expression of the neurogenic TFATOH1within our SCLC Circulating tumour cell- Derived eXplant (CDX) model biobank. Here we show that ATOH1 protein was detected in 7/81 preclinical models and 16/102 clinical samples of SCLC. In CDX models, ATOH1 directly regulated neurogenesis and differentiation programs consistent with roles in normal tissues. Inex vivocultures of ATOH1-positive CDX, ATOH1 was required for cell survival.In vivo, ATOH1 depletion slowed tumour growth and suppressed liver metastasis. Our data validate ATOH1 as abona fideoncogenic driver of SCLC with tumour cell survival and pro-metastatic functions. Further investigation to explore ATOH1 driven vulnerabilities for targeted treatment with predictive biomarkers is warranted.
YY1 mutations disrupt corticogenesis through a cell-type specific rewiring of cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous transcriptional programs
Authors: Pereira Marlene F , Finazzi Veronica , Rizzuti Ludovico , Aprile Davide , Aiello Vittorio , Mollica Luca , Riva Matteo , Soriani Chiara , Dossena Francesco , Shyti Reinald , Castaldi Davide , Tenderini Erika , Carminho-Rodrigues Maria Teresa , Bally Julien F , de Vries Bert B.A. , Gabriele Michele , Vitriolo Alessandro , Testa Giuseppe
Published: February 2024

Germline mutations of YY1 cause Gabriele-de Vries syndrome (GADEVS), a neurodevelopmental disorder featuring intellectual disability and a wide range of systemic manifestations. To dissect the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying GADEVS, we combined large-scale imaging, single-cell multiomics and gene regulatory network reconstruction in 2D and 3D patient-derived physiopathologically relevant cell lineages. YY1 haploinsufficiency causes a pervasive alteration of cell type specific transcriptional networks, disrupting corticogenesis at the level of neural progenitors and terminally differentiated neurons, including cytoarchitectural defects reminiscent of GADEVS clinical features. Transcriptional alterations in neurons propagated to neighboring astrocytes through a major non-cell autonomous pro-inflammatory effect that grounds the rationale for modulatory interventions. Together, neurodevelopmental trajectories, synaptic formation and neuronal-astrocyte cross talk emerged as salient domains of YY1 dosage-dependent vulnerability. Mechanistically, cell-type resolved reconstruction of gene regulatory networks uncovered the regulatory interplay between YY1, NEUROG2 and ETV5 and its aberrant rewiring in GADEVS. Our findings underscore the reach of advanced in vitro models in capturing developmental antecedents of clinical features and exposing their underlying mechanisms to guide the search for targeted interventions.
H-NS is a bacterial transposon capture protein
Authors: Cooper Charles , Legood Simon , Wheat Rachel L , Forrest David , Sharma Prateek , Haycocks James RJ , Grainger David C
Published: February 2024

The histone-like nucleoid structuring (H-NS) protein is a DNA binding factor, found in γ-proteobacteria, with functional equivalents in diverse microbes. Universally, such proteins are understood to silence transcription of horizontally acquired genes. Here, we identify transposon capture as a major overlooked function of H-NS. Using genome scale approaches, we show that H NS bound chromosomal regions are transposition "hotspots". Since H-NS often interacts with pathogenicity islands, such targeting creates clinically relevant phenotypic diversity. For example, in Acinetobacter baumannii, we identify altered motility, biofilm formation, and interactions with the human immune system. Transposon capture is mediated by the DNA bridging activity of H-NS and, if absent, more ubiquitous transposition results. Consequently, transcribed and essential genes are disrupted. Hence, H NS directs transposition to favour evolutionary outcomes useful for the host cell.
Exposure to cooler temperatures during pupal development increases Aedes aegypti vector competence and the R0 for Zika virus
Authors: Pohlenz Tyler D , Vela Jeremy , Reyna Martin , Fredregill Chris , Hur Byul , Erraguntla Madhav , Lawley Mark , Debboun Mustapha , Adelman Zach N , Ndeffo-Mbah Martial L , Myles Kevin M
Published: February 2024

Temperature profoundly affects various aspects of ectotherm biology. Notably, in mosquito species that spread viral diseases, temperature influences not only vector biology, but also the dynamics of pathogen-vector interactions. However, research attempting to address the role of the thermal environment in disease transmission often employs constant temperatures, which do not reflect the natural diurnal fluctuations these organisms experience. Additionally, most studies focus on adult mosquitoes in the period following virus infection. Much less attention has been paid to evidence indicating that temperatures experienced during earlier developmental stages may also affect the ability of disease vectors to be infected with and transmit viruses. Here, we show that Aedes aegypti exposed to temperatures below 25 deg C, specifically during the pupal stage of development, exhibit heightened susceptibility to Zika virus (ZIKV), which increases transmission efficiency. Modeling suggests that exposing mosquitoes to cooler fluctuating diurnal temperature ranges only during the relatively short pupal stage increases the R0 or reproductive number of ZIKV. Data loggers placed near Harris County Mosquito Control trap sites consistently recorded temperatures below 25 deg C, indicating natural exposure to such conditions. These results highlight the significance of thermal heterogeneity in the microhabitats where container-breeding mosquitoes undergo development. Such heterogeneity may play a more important role in the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases than previously recognized.
Innervation of cranial muscles requires Mllt11/Af1q/Tcf7c function during trigeminal ganglion development
Authors: Zinck Nicholas W , Stanton-Turcotte Danielle , Witt Emily A , Blommers Marley , Iulianella Angelo
Published: February 2024

The development of cranial nerves, including the trigeminal nerve, and the formation of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) are crucial processes for craniofacial motor function. Mllt11/Af1q/Tcf7c (henceforth Mllt11), a novel type of cytoskeletal-interacting protein, has been implicated in neuronal migration and neuritogenesis during central nervous system development. However, its role in peripheral nerve development and NMJ formation remains poorly understood. This study investigates the function of Mllt11 during trigeminal ganglion development and its impact on motor innervation of the masseter muscle. We report Mllt11 expression in the developing trigeminal ganglia, suggesting a potential role in cranial nerve development. Using a conditional knockout mouse model to delete Mllt11 in Wnt1-expressing neural crest cells, we assessed trigeminal ganglion development and innervation of the masseter muscle in the jaw. Surprisingly, we find that Mllt11 loss does not affect the initial formation of the trigeminal ganglion but disrupts its cellular composition, with a reduction in the ratio of neural crest-derived Sox10+ cells relative to placode-derived Isl1/2+ cells. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that conditional Mllt11 knockout leads to reduction of neurofilament density and NMJs within the masseter muscle, indicating altered trigeminal motor innervation. Our findings show that Mllt11 regulates the cellular composition of the trigeminal ganglion and is essential for proper trigeminal motor innervation in the masseter muscle.
Molecular glues of the regulatory ChREBP/14-3-3 complex protect beta cells from glucolipotoxicity
Authors: Katz Liora S. , Visser Emira J. , Plitzko Kathrin F. , Pennings Marloes A.M. , Cossar Peter J. , Tse Isabelle L. , Kaiser Markus , Brunsveld Luc , Ottmann Christian , Scott Donald K.
Published: February 2024

The Carbohydrate Response Element Binding Protein (ChREBP) is a glucose-responsive transcription factor (TF) with two major splice isoforms (α and β). In chronic hyperglycemia and glucolipotoxicity, ChREBPα-mediated ChREBPβ expression surges, leading to insulin-secreting β-cell dedifferentiation and death. 14-3-3 binding to ChREBPα results in cytoplasmic retention and suppression of transcriptional activity. Thus, small molecule-mediated stabilization of this protein-protein interaction (PPI) may be of therapeutic value. Here, we show that structure-based optimizations of a ‘molecular glue’ compound led to potent ChREBPα/14-3-3 PPI stabilizers with cellular activity. In primary human β-cells, the most active compound retained ChREBPα in the cytoplasm, and efficiently protected β-cells from glucolipotoxicity while maintaining β-cell identity. This study may thus not only provide the basis for the development of a unique class of compounds for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes but also showcases an alternative ‘molecular glue’ approach for achieving small molecule control of notoriously difficult to target TFs.

Graphical Abstract
Consumer preferences for fungus-resistant grape varieties: an explorative segmentation study in Germany
Authors: Kiefer Christoph , Szolnoki Gergely
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The significance of fungus-resistant grape varieties (FRGVs) has markedly increased across the entire value chain in recent years, becoming increasingly pertinent for the wine industry. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of consumer behaviour in the wine industry through the identification of different clusters and the analysis of their accessibility to the FRGV on the basis of various criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative survey was conducted involving 644 participants that was screened based on socio-demographic factors to ensure representation of the German population. The collected data were analysed using factor and cluster analyses, alongside various multivariate tests, to statistically elucidate similarities and differences between clusters.

Findings

In total, six clusters were examined, each displaying varying responses to and pre-existing knowledge of resistant grape varieties. In general, as one becomes more involved in the world of wine and develops a sustainable and progressive outlook towards innovations in the wine industry, a positive inclination towards resistant grape varieties can be observed.

Practical implications

Practical implications for each cluster were subsequently derived, potentially facilitating the market entry or penetration of wines produced from FRGV. Experts and Quality-averse consumer desire wines from FRGV to have a unique terroir experience, while young casual drinkers interpret them as part of pop culture. LOHAS can be addressed with sustainability-oriented approaches. Price-sensitive consumer expect good qualities in the entry price segment, and Traditionalists can be reached by preserving traditions in a changing environmental context.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the identified need to investigate consumer preferences for resistant grape varieties.
Effects of blockchain technology (BT) on the university librarians and libraries: a systematic literature review (SLR)
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Iqbal Abid
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The objectives of the study were to identify the effects of blockchain technology (BT) on the university librarians, the impact of BT on the university library services and to reveal the challenges to adopt BT in the university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was applied to address the objectives of the study. Around 25 studies published in peer-reviewed journals were selected to conduct the study.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that blockchain technology (BT) has positive effects on the university librarians as it assists them in digital resources management, provision of integrated library services, effective records management and continued professional development. The study also displayed that BT has a positive impact on the university libraries through effective information management, user privacy, collaboration, technological innovation and access control. Results also revealed that technical issues, financial constraints, security problems, skill issues and sociocultural issues created challenges to adopt BT in the university libraries.

Originality/value

The study has offered theoretical implications for future investigators through the provision of innovative literature on the prospectus and challenges associated with blockchain in the context of librarianship. The study has also provided practical implications for management bodies by offering recommendations for the successful adoption of blockchain in the university libraries. Additionally, a framework has been developed to adopt BT successfully in the university libraries for the delivery of smart library services to library patrons.
Millennial football fan participation: the influence of football video games on play and engagement
Authors: Butcher Luke , Bryant Mark
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Traditional sports have seen declining participation at many levels, with football being no different. This is occurring at a time when emergent technologies present new challenges, particularly to the crucial yet ignored cohort of millennials. Without meeting the needs of millennials, football cannot be successful in the future. This research seeks to understand how millennial football fandom (sport, not team) in Australia impacts football participation, whilst empirically examining the impact of football video games (FVGs).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data are collected from online groups, forums and social media pages of Australian football (soccer) fans. Quantitative analysis of millennial fandom and its influence on football participation (for the first time demarcated into play and engagement) is undertaken, including the moderating influence of time spent playing FVGs, amidst covariate influences of age and number of children.

Findings

Results highlight the multi-dimensionality of millennial football fandom in Australia, reveal the typical hours spent playing football across a range of participation types (including play and engagement), support fan involvement’s influence on engagement with football, establish that a desire to interact with other football fans manifests in playing more football, specify how playing FVGs moderates these relationships, supports the covariate influences of age and evidences that playing FVGs does not hamper football play.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine millennial fans of football (the sport, not tied to a club) and the influence of fandom on football participation. By separating football participation into two forms, play and engagement, we highlight discrete influences, whilst evaluating for the first time the moderating influence of the time millennials spend playing FVGs. For sport managers and administrators, these are important findings to facilitate better segmentation, recruitment, retention and participation, each with broader societal health benefits. This is undertaken in Australia where football is not a dominant code, relegating fandom to a niche, thus revealing important findings for sports and business management.
Incidence and survival rates of primary cutaneous malignancies in Korea, 1999–2019: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Kwon Soon‐Hyo , Choi Sangmin , Kim Joung Soo , Kim Sang Seok , Jue Mihn‐Sook , Seo Soo Hong , Park Jihye , Roh Mi Ryung , Mun Je‐Ho , Kim Jun Young , Choi Jee Woong , Byun Ji Won , Park Sanghyun , Kim Min Sung , Lee Seok‐Jong ,   Korean Society of Skin Cancer
Published: February 2024

Primary cutaneous malignancies are among the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer worldwide. We aimed to examine the incidence and 5‐year survival rates of all types of primary cutaneous malignancies in the Korean population. Data from the Korean Nationwide Cancer Registry from 1999 to 2019 were analyzed. The crude incidence rates, age‐standardized incidence rates, and 5‐year relative survival rates of each type of skin cancer were calculated. A total of 89 965 patients were diagnosed with primary cutaneous malignancies, which was a 7‐fold increase from 1999 to 2019. The age‐standardized incidence rates increased 3.4‐fold in basal cell carcinoma (3.7/100 000 person‐years), 2.0‐fold in squamous cell carcinoma (1.6/100 000 person‐years), 12.0‐fold in Bowen disease (1.2/100 000 person‐years), and 1.8‐fold in malignant melanoma (0.7/10 000 person‐years) in 2019. Average annual percentage changes in age‐standardized incidence rates were statistically significant in basal cell carcinoma (15.8%), Bowen disease (5.8%), squamous cell carcinoma (5.1%), malignant melanoma (1.2%), melanoma in situ (1.1%), dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (1.2%), mycosis fungoides (0.5%), primary cutaneous CD30+ T‐cell proliferations (0.5%), adnexal and skin appendage carcinoma (0.4%), extramammary Paget's disease (0.2%), and Merkel cell carcinoma (0.2%). The 5‐year relative survival rates were the highest in basal cell carcinoma (103.3%), followed by dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (99.7%) and mycosis fungoides (96.6%), and lowest in angiosarcoma (24.7%). The 5‐year relative survival rates steadily increased in extramammary Paget's disease (23.6%), cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma (21.3%), mycosis fungoides (20.2%), extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type (18.1%), and malignant melanoma (16.1%) from 1996–2000 to 2015–2019. Most primary cutaneous malignancies have increased in incidence and survival rates in the Korean population, but to varying extents depending on the type of skin cancer.
Heatwave‐mediated decreases in phytoplankton quality negatively affect zooplankton productivity
Authors: Kim Jihyun Olivia , Dimitriou Alexandra , Forster Ian , Tseng Michelle
Published: February 2024

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of extreme temperature events. The effect of heatwaves on phytoplankton is of particular concern because they are a key source of C, N, P and essential fatty acids to aquatic ecosystems. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that phytoplankton grown at warmer temperatures are a lower quality food source, but how heatwaves affect phytoplankton quality at the community scale is currently unclear.

Here we address this knowledge gap by growing natural assemblages of freshwater phytoplankton at “ambient”, “constant warming” or “heatwave” conditions. We next fed these phytoplankton communities to natural assemblages of zooplankton to test the prediction that zooplankton that consume heatwave‐exposed phytoplankton will exhibit reductions in biomass.

Our experiment demonstrated that zooplankton that consumed “heatwave” phytoplankton attained lower community biomass than those fed “constant warming” or “ambient” phytoplankton. Additionally, despite receiving similar total heat input, phytoplankton exposed to “heatwave” conditions contained lower C, N, P and fatty acid concentrations compared to phytoplankton grown in “constant warming” conditions.

Correlations between zooplankton biomass and all measured phytoplankton traits revealed that decreases in zooplankton biomass were best explained by low quantities of C, N and monounsaturated fatty acids in “heatwave” phytoplankton.

Our study demonstrates that the effects of heatwaves on phytoplankton quality are clearly distinct from those caused by constant warming temperatures and that heatwave‐mediated decreases in resource quality have immediate effects on consumer productivity.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
“READINESS”: A keystone concept beyond organizational crisis preparedness and resilience
Authors: Jin Yan , Coombs W. Timothy , Wang Yijing , van der Meer Toni G. L. A. , Shivers Brittany N.
Published: February 2024

Driven by the academia‐industry co‐identified need to discover new keystones for optimizing organizational crisis communication and management decision‐making, this concept paper proposes a new “READINESS” model. Grounded in the organizational preparedness and resilience literature and drawing predominantly from crisis communication and strategic conflict management elements, READINESS is examined as a multidimensional construct with multilevel efficacy, mental adaptability, and emotional leadership‐focused mindset, with a dynamic process‐driven agility at its core. Another tenet is that READINESS is not just for crises but also essential to manage threats, risks, conflicts, and crises across the board, constantly shaped by complex informational environments and polarizing sociopolitical issues. We begin by articulating READINESS and then illustrate its application in sticky crisis situations, followed by directions for future research, practice, and training innovation and optimization.
Quantitative color analysis of burned bone to predict DNA quantity, quality, and genotyping success
Authors: Macias Eric , Hartline Kendall , Buzzini Patrick , Hughes Sheree
Published: February 2024

Badly burned skeletal remains are commonly submitted to forensic laboratories for victim identification via DNA analysis methods. Burned skeletal remains present many challenges for DNA analysis as they can contain low amounts of DNA which can also be damaged and degraded, resulting in partial or no STR profiles. Therefore, a simple, but effective screening method that identifies which samples may provide the most successful STR or mtDNA typing results for identification would enable forensic laboratories to save time, money, and resources. One metric that can be used and a screening method is the color of burned bone, as bone color changes with exposure to fire as temperature and length of exposure increase. This research developed a quantitative screening method based on the surface color of burned bone. The different visual bone colors (light brown, dark brown, black, gray, and white) were quantified using the Commission on Illumination L*a*b color space. These values were then compared to DNA yield, STR, and mtDNA profile completeness to identify whether the L*a*b values can predict genotyping success. A Bayesian network was constructed to determine the probability of STR typing success, given a set of L*a*b values. Results demonstrated that samples with an a* value greater than or equal to one and b* value greater than eight (light brown and dark brown burned samples) were the most predictive of STR typing success and mtDNA typing success. A decision tree for processing burned bones was constructed based on the color value thresholds.
Is epidural analgesia non‐inferior to intrathecal fentanyl as initiation for neuraxial analgesia in early non‐spontaneous labour?
Authors: Salmi Lotta , Jernman Riina , Väänänen Antti
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

Intrathecal fentanyl, using the combined spinal‐epidural (CSE) technique, provides rapid analgesia during early labour. Because of the technique's more complex and invasive nature, as its replacement we assessed the use of epidural analgesia in primiparous parturients with induced labour. The study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04645823). The aim was to compare the efficacy, duration of analgesia and maternal satisfaction. The primary outcome was the difference in pain visual analogue scale (VAS) between the interventions at 20 min after the analgesia administration.

Methods

Sixty volunteering parturients were randomly allocated in 1:1 ratio to receive either intrathecal fentanyl 20 μg or epidural analgesia (fentanyl 100 μg and lidocaine 80 mg). Contraction pain and maternal satisfaction were assessed by 0–100 mm VAS for 30 min, respectively. Foetal heart rate abnormalities, the time to first epidural dose and the incidence of pruritus were recorded. Non‐inferiority margin for mean (95% CI) VAS after epidural analgesia was set at 20 mm above the VAS value for intrathecal fentanyl at 20 min.

Results

The contraction pain VAS fell from (median [interquartile range, IQR]) 82 (14) to 13 (20) mm and 76 (17) to 12 (27) mm in 20 min following the intrathecal fentanyl and epidural analgesia, respectively. The absolute mean difference (epidural‐intrathecal fentanyl) in the VAS values was 3.3(−0.06 to 6.66) mm indicating non‐inferiority. The median time to reach VAS <30 mm was 10 min in both groups. The duration until request for supplemental analgesia was 82(69–95) and 91(75–106) min after intrathecal fentanyl and epidural analgesia, respectively. The difference for the duration (epidural‐intrathecal fentanyl) was 9 (6–12) min and for satisfaction‐VAS 0.3 (−3.0 to 3.7) mm. There were no differences between the groups in the incidence of foetal heart rate abnormalities, while pruritus was more common after intrathecal fentanyl.

Conclusion

After 20 min, epidural analgesia by lidocaine and fentanyl was within the non‐inferior threshold compared with intrathecal fentanyl in efficacy. The duration of action was not shorter than that of intrathecal fentanyl and maternal satisfaction was also similar.
Patient‐reported outcome measure use among older adults after emergency department care: A systematic review
Authors: Gettel Cameron J. , Galske James , Sather Anna R. , Haidous Ali K. , Hwang Ula , Brackett Alexandria L. , Venkatesh Arjun K. , Rising Kristin L. , Goldberg Elizabeth M. , van Oppen James D. , Conroy Simon P. , Carpenter Christopher R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) are gaining favor in clinical and research settings given their ability to capture a patient's symptom burden, functional status, and quality of life. Our objective in this systematic review was to summarize studies including PROMs assessed among older adults (age ≥ 65 years) after seeking emergency care.

Methods

With the assistance of a medical librarian, we searched Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science‐Core Collection, and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception through June 2023 for studies in which older adult ED patients had PROMs assessed in the post–emergency care time period. Independent reviewers performed title/abstract review, full‐text screening, data extraction, study characteristic summarization, and risk‐of‐bias (RoB) assessments.

Results

Our search strategy yielded 5153 studies of which 56 met study inclusion criteria. Within included studies, 304 unique PROM assessments were performed at varying time points after the ED visit, including 61 unique PROMs. The most commonly measured domain was physical function, assessed within the majority of studies (47/56; 84%), with measures including PROMs such as Katz activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental ADLs, and the Barthel Index. PROMs were most frequently assessed at 1–3 months after an ED visit (113/304; 37%), greater than 6 months (91/304; 30%), and 4–6 months (88/304; 29%), with very few PROMs assessed within 1 month of the ED visit (12/304; 4%). Of the 16 interventional studies, two were determined to have a low RoB, four had moderate RoB, nine had high RoB, and one had insufficient information. Of the 40 observational studies, 10 were determined to be of good quality, 20 of moderate quality, and 10 of poor quality.

Conclusions

PROM assessments among older adults following an ED visit frequently measured physical function, with very few assessments occurring within the first 1 month after an ED visit.
The prevalence of alcohol references in music and their effect on people's drinking behavior: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alen Gedefaw Diress , Anderson‐Luxford Dan , Kuntsche Emmanuel , He Zhen , Riordan Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Understanding the prevalence of alcohol references in music and their impact on alcohol drinking behavior is important given the increased accessibility to daily music listening with the proliferation of smart devices. In this review, we estimate the pooled prevalence of alcohol references in music and its association with drinking behavior. Systematic searches were conducted across four major databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINHAL). Articles were selected following duplicate checking, title and abstract screening, and full‐text review. Studies reporting the prevalence of alcohol‐referencing music and/or investigating its association with drinking behavior were included. Pooled prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using a random effects model. Of 1007 articles identified, 26 met inclusion criteria and 23 studies comprising 12,224 songs were eligible for meta‐analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of alcohol references in music (including lyrics and videos) was 24.0% (95% CI: 19.0%–29.0%). The pooled prevalence was 22.0% (95% CI: 16.0%–29.0%) for only lyrics, 25.0% (95% CI: 18.0%–33.0%) for only the visual elements of music videos, and 29.0% (95% CI: 21.0%–38.0%) for both the lyrical content and the visual components. Only three studies assessed the relationship between listening to music with alcohol references and drinking behavior, and all three reported a positive association. Whereas almost a quarter of all songs included references to alcohol, public health preventive measures are needed to reduce alcohol exposure from music. Future research is needed to understand fully the effect of music with alcohol references on drinking behavior.
A step closer to parenthood with non‐obstructive azoospermia: Unveiling the impact of microdissection testicular sperm extraction in Australia's largest single‐centre study
Authors: Elzeiny Hossam , Agresta Franca , Stevens John , Gardner David K.
Published: February 2024

Background

Non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA) diagnosis poses challenges for couples seeking parenthood. Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (MD‐TESE) excels in retrieving testicular sperm cells for NOA cases. However, limited live birth data in Australian NOA patients hinders accurate counselling.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the likelihood of infertile couples with a male partner diagnosed with NOA conceiving biological children using MD‐TESE / intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort study included 108 NOA men treated at a public fertility unit and a private fertility centre (May 2009–May 2022). Primary outcome: live birth rate (LBR); secondary outcomes: sperm retrieval rate, pregnancy rate, and neonatal outcomes.

Results

Among 108 patients undergoing MD‐TESE, the positive sperm retrieval rate (PSRR) was 64.8% (70/108). Histology best predicted sperm retrieval success, with hypo‐spermatogenesis yielding a 94.1% PSRR. Age, testicular volume, and hormonal parameters had no significant impact. Mean male age: 35.4 years; mean partner age: 32.7 years. Fertilisation rate: 50.7%. LBR per initiated cycle: 58.7% (37/63); per embryo transfer: 63.8% (37/58); per initially diagnosed NOA man: 34.3% (37/108). Cumulative LBR: 74.1% (43/58); twin rate: 10.8% (4/37). No neonatal deaths or defects were observed among 47 live offspring.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable data for counselling NOA couples on the probability of conceiving biological offspring. MD‐TESE and ICSI yielded favourable PSRR (64.8%) and LBR (63.8%). However, couples should be aware that once NOA is confirmed, the chance of taking home a baby is 34%.
The social determinants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults who do not smoke in regional Australia
Authors: Heris Christina , Caudell Reuben Z. , Barrett Eden M. , Brinckley Makayla‐May , Cohen Rubijayne , Kennedy Michelle , Whop Lisa J. , Calma Tom , Maddox Raglan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Commercial tobacco use was systematically embedded as a valuable commodity through colonisation that continues to be exploited for profit by the Tobacco Industry. There have been significant declines in current smoking prevalence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 18 years and over, from 55% in 1994 to 43% in 2018–2019. This paper seeks to better understand smoke‐free behaviours, and to systematically quantify associations between a range of SDOH and non‐smoking/never‐smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (≥18) living in regional Australia.

Objective

To explore the social determinants of health (SDOH) related to non‐ and never‐smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in regional Australia.

Design

Cross‐sectional analysis of the NATSIHS, weighted to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adult population living in regional Australia, was conducted. Participants were characterised as people who were current smokers, never‐smokers and non‐smokers (ex‐ and never‐smokers). The social determinants of health exposures related to socioeconomic position, well‐being and access to healthcare.

Setting

Regional Australia is distinct from urban and remote areas, based on the ASGS Remoteness Structure (ABS) 2018–2019.

Participants

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults (≥18 years) who were selected, consented and asked questions about smoking in the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey (NATSIHS 2018/19).

Results

High income was associated with non‐smoking (Prevalence Ratio [PR] = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.66–2.57) and never‐smoking (PR = 2.02; 1.46–2.79), as was completing year 10 (non‐smoking PR = 1.34; 1.12–1.61 and never‐smoking PR = 1.56; 1.20–2.03). Better food security was associated with a higher prevalence of never‐smoking (PR = 2.42; 1.48–3.98). Lower psychological distress scores were associated with non‐smoking (PR = 1.30; 1.10–1.53) and never‐smoking (PR = 1.56; 1.21–2.01). Never‐smoking was more frequent in participants reporting no experiences of unfair treatment (PR = 1.59; 1.22–2.06). Having a usual healthcare provider was associated with non‐smoking (PR = 1.38; 1.02–1.86). Positive exposure to the SDOH were associated with non‐ and never‐smoking among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults in regional Australia. Structural and systemic changes to address the SDOH, including discrimination and racism, are expected to accelerate non‐smoking behaviours and improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled study on the efficacy of Omalizumab on food allergy threshold in children with severe food allergy
Authors: Mortz Charlotte G. , Parke Louise , Rasmussen Helene M. , Kjaer Henrik Fomsgaard , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten
Published: February 2024

Background

Food allergy is common in childhood with some children having a low threshold and being difficult to protect from accidental ingestion of the offending food. Therapies for this potentially life‐threatening condition are highly needed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Omalizumab in food‐allergic children.

Methods

This is a single‐center, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Food allergic children with a cumulative threshold ≤443 mg food protein at DBPCFC were randomized to Omalizumab (asthma dose) or placebo (3:1). After 3 months, a second DBPCFC was performed (steps 3, 10, 30, 100, 300, 1000, and 3000 mg food protein), followed by a separate open challenge up to 10,000 and 30,000 mg food protein if negative. Responders were defined as ≥2‐step increases in threshold. Non‐responders received high‐dose Omalizumab. A third DBPCFC was performed after 6 months. Skin testing, blood samples, and the severity of atopic co‐morbidity were registered during the study and 3 months after treatment.

Results

In total, 20 children were evaluated at 3 months (14 Omalizumab, 6 placebo). All treated with Omalizumab increased their threshold at least two steps and with a significant difference between the Omalizumab and the placebo group (p = .003), although the intended number of included children was not reached. The threshold before Omalizumab treatment was 13–443 mg food protein while the threshold after 3 months of treatment increased up to 44,000 mg (1143–44,000). In the placebo group, two children improved threshold during the study.

Conclusion

An increase in the threshold level during Omalizumab treatment significantly improve patient safety and protected all children against small amount of allergen.
Outcomes of proximal humerus fractures in children: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Abbot Samuel , Proudman Susanna , Bednarz Jana , Williams Nicole
Published: February 2024

Objective

Paediatric proximal humerus fractures (PHFs) have historically been treated non‐operatively. However, the management of severely displaced PHFs in older children has been debated over the years, with contemporary studies advocating for surgery. The purpose of this study was to review the outcomes of a cohort of paediatric patients treated for a PHF to guide management of future paediatric PHFs.

Methods

The records of the Women's and Children's Hospital in South Australia were reviewed to identify paediatric PHFs occurring between 1 January 2010 and 1 June 2020. Participants completed the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, and the Paediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument via phone interview. Participants’ shoulder range‐of‐motion was assessed via telehealth using Zoom. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify patient and clinical variables that were associated with a poorer outcome.

Results

Of 307 patients contacted, 125 participated. Forty‐six patients met the definition of a poorer clinical outcome, defined as a QuickDASH score of ≥2. Fractures of greater severity were predictive of a poorer outcome, and patients aged ≥12 years old at the time of injury had higher total QuickDASH scores. The findings did not suggest that these subgroups of patients have superior outcomes if treated surgically.

Conclusion

The majority of paediatric PHFs have an acceptable clinical outcome, irrespective of treatment methodology. Multicentre prospective studies are required to establish the indications for surgery for adolescent patients with severely displaced PHFs.
Childbirth experiences in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A cohort study
Authors: Husby Anne Engtrø , Simpson Melanie Rae , Dalbye Rebecka , Larsen Marit , Vanky Eszter , Løvvik Tone Shetelig
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have more pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preterm labor than other women. Metformin has been used in an attempt to improve pregnancy outcomes. Our study aims to explore childbirth experiences in women with PCOS compared with a reference population. It also explores the potential influence of metformin, obesity, pregnancy complications, and the duration and mode of birth on childbirth experiences.

Material and methods

This study is a cohort study combining data from two randomized trials conducted in Norway, Sweden and Iceland. The PregMet2 study (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01587378) investigated the use of metformin vs. placebo in pregnant women with PCOS. The Labour Progression Study (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02221427) compared the WHO partograph to Zhang's guidelines for progression of labor and were used as the reference population. A total of 365 women with PCOS and 3604 reference women were included. Both studies used the Childbirth Experience Questionnaire (CEQ). Main outcome measures were total CEQ score and four domain scores. The CEQ scores were compared using Mann–Whitney U test for women in Robson group 1 with PCOS (n = 131) and reference women (n = 3604). CEQ scores were also compared between metformin‐treated (n = 180) and placebo‐treated (n = 185) women with PCOS, and for different subgroups of women with PCOS.

Results

There was no difference in total CEQ score between women with PCOS and reference women—Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney (WMW)‐odds 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.78–1.17). We detected no difference in CEQ scores between the metformin‐ and placebo‐treated women with PCOS (WMW‐odds 1.13, 95% CI 0.89–1.43). Complications in pregnancy did not affect CEQ (WMW‐odds 1, 95% CI 0.76–1.31). Higher body mass index (WMW‐odds 0.75, 95% CI 0.58–0.96), longer duration of labor (WMW‐odds 0.69, 95% CI 0.49–0.96), and cesarean section (WMW‐odds 0.29, 95% CI 0.2–0.42) were associated with lower CEQ scores in women with PCOS.

Conclusions

Women with PCOS experience childbirth similarly to the reference women. Metformin did not influence childbirth experience in women with PCOS, neither did pregnancy complications. Obesity, long duration of labor or cesarean section had a negative impact on childbirth experience.