bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childhood adverse life events and skeletal muscle mitochondrial function
Authors: Duchowny Kate A. , Marcinek David J. , Mau Theresa , Diaz-Ramierz L. Grisell , Lui Li-Yung , Toledo Frederico G. S. , Cawthon Peggy M. , Hepple Russell T. , Kramer Philip A. , Newman Anne B. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Cummings Steven R. , Coen Paul M. , Molina Anthony J. A.
Published: March 2024

Social stress experienced in childhood is associated with adverse health later in life. Mitochondrial function has been implicated as a mechanism for how stressful life events “get under the skin” to influence physical well-being. Using data from the Study of Muscle, Mobility, and Aging (
n
= 879, 59% women), linear models examined whether adverse childhood events (i.e., physical abuse) were associated with two measures of skeletal muscle mitochondrial energetics in older adults: (i) maximal adenosine triphosphate production (ATP
max
) and (ii) maximal state 3 respiration (Max OXPHOS). Forty-five percent of the sample reported experiencing one or more adverse childhood events. After adjustment, each additional event was associated with −0.08 SD (95% confidence interval = −0.13, −0.02) lower ATP
max
. No association was observed with Max OXPHOS. Adverse childhood events are associated with lower ATP production in later life. Findings indicate that mitochondrial function may be a mechanism for understanding how early social stress influences health in later life.
Unraveling quantum coherences mediating primary charge transfer processes in photosystem II reaction center
Authors: Jha Ajay , Zhang Pan-Pan , Tiwari Vandana , Chen Lipeng , Thorwart Michael , Miller R. J. Dwayne , Duan Hong-Guang
Published: March 2024

Photosystem II (PSII) reaction center (RC) is a unique complex that is capable of efficiently separating electronic charges across the membrane. The primary energy- and charge-transfer (CT) processes occur on comparable ultrafast timescales, which makes it extremely challenging to understand the fundamental mechanism responsible for the near-unity quantum efficiency of the transfer. Here, we elucidate the role of quantum coherences in the ultrafast energy and CT in the PSII RC by performing two-dimensional (2D) electronic spectroscopy at the cryogenic temperature of 20 kelvin, which captures the distinct underlying quantum coherences. Specifically, we uncover the electronic and vibrational coherences along with their lifetimes during the primary ultrafast processes of energy and CT. We construct an excitonic model that provides evidence for coherent energy and CT at low temperature in the 2D electronic spectra. The principles could provide valuable guidelines for creating artificial photosystems with exploitation of system-bath coupling and control of coherences to optimize the photon conversion efficiency to specific functions.
High-fidelity, hyper-accurate, and evolved mutants rewire atomic-level communication in CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Skeens Erin , Sinha Souvik , Ahsan Mohd , D’Ordine Alexandra M. , Jogl Gerwald , Palermo Giulia , Lisi George P.
Published: March 2024

The high-fidelity (HF1), hyper-accurate (Hypa), and evolved (Evo) variants of the CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) endonuclease are critical tools to mitigate off-target effects in the application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology. The mechanisms by which mutations in recognition subdomain 3 (Rec3) mediate specificity in these variants are poorly understood. Here, solution nuclear magnetic resonance and molecular dynamics simulations establish the structural and dynamic effects of high-specificity mutations in Rec3, and how they propagate the allosteric signal of Cas9. We reveal conserved structural changes and dynamic differences at regions of Rec3 that interface with the RNA:DNA hybrid, transducing chemical signals from Rec3 to the catalytic His-Asn-His (HNH) domain. The variants remodel the communication sourcing from the Rec3 α helix 37, previously shown to sense target DNA complementarity, either directly or allosterically. This mechanism increases communication between the DNA mismatch recognition helix and the HNH active site, shedding light on the structure and dynamics underlying Cas9 specificity and providing insight for future engineering principles.
Coxsackievirus infection induces direct pancreatic β cell killing but poor antiviral CD8
+
T cell responses
Authors: Vecchio Federica , Carré Alexia , Korenkov Daniil , Zhou Zhicheng , Apaolaza Paola , Tuomela Soile , Burgos-Morales Orlando , Snowhite Isaac , Perez-Hernandez Javier , Brandao Barbara , Afonso Georgia , Halliez Clémentine , Kaddis John , Kent Sally C. , Nakayama Maki , Richardson Sarah J. , Vinh Joelle , Verdier Yann , Laiho Jutta , Scharfmann Raphael , Solimena Michele , Marinicova Zuzana , Bismuth Elise , Lucidarme Nadine , Sanchez Janine , Bustamante Carmen , Gomez Patricia , Buus Soren ,   the nPOD-Virus Working Group, You Sylvaine , Pugliese Alberto , Hyoty Heikki , Rodriguez-Calvo Teresa , Flodstrom-Tullberg Malin , Mallone Roberto
Published: March 2024

Coxsackievirus B (CVB) infection of pancreatic β cells is associated with β cell autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes. We investigated how CVB affects human β cells and anti-CVB T cell responses. β cells were efficiently infected by CVB in vitro, down-regulated human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I, and presented few, selected HLA-bound viral peptides. Circulating CD8
+
T cells from CVB–seropositive individuals recognized a fraction of these peptides; only another subfraction was targeted by effector/memory T cells that expressed exhaustion marker PD-1. T cells recognizing a CVB epitope cross-reacted with β cell antigen GAD. Infected β cells, which formed filopodia to propagate infection, were more efficiently killed by CVB than by CVB-reactive T cells. Our in vitro and ex vivo data highlight limited CD8
+
T cell responses to CVB, supporting the rationale for CVB vaccination trials for type 1 diabetes prevention. CD8
+
T cells recognizing structural and nonstructural CVB epitopes provide biomarkers to differentially follow response to infection and vaccination.
Quantum entanglement and interference at 3 μm
Authors: Ge Zheng , Han Zhao-Qi-Zhi , Yang Fan , Wang Xiao-Hua , Li Yin-Hai , Li Yan , Gao Ming-Yuan , Chen Ren-Hui , Niu Su-Jian , Xie Meng-Yu , Zhou Zhi-Yuan , Shi Bao-Sen
Published: March 2024

Given the important advantages of the mid-infrared optical range (2.5 to 25 μm) for biomedical sensing, optical communications, and molecular spectroscopy, extending quantum information technology to this region is highly attractive. However, the development of mid-infrared quantum information technology is still in its infancy. Here, we report on the generation of a time-energy entangled photon pair in the mid-infrared wavelength band. By using frequency upconversion detection technology, we observe the two-photon Hong-Ou-Mandel interference and demonstrate the time-energy entanglement between twin photons at 3082 nm via the Franson-type interferometer, verifying the indistinguishability and nonlocality of the photons. This work is very promising for future applications of optical quantum technology in the mid-infrared band, which will bring more opportunities in the fields of quantum communication, precision sensing, and imaging.
Ordered planar plating/stripping enables deep cycling zinc metal batteries
Authors: Chen Shuang , Xia Yufan , Zeng Ran , Luo Zhen , Wu Xingxing , Hu Xuzhi , Lu Jian , Gazit Ehud , Pan Hongge , Hong Zijian , Yan Mi , Tao Kai , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: March 2024

Metal anodes are emerging as culminating solutions for the development of energy-dense batteries in either aprotic, aqueous, or solid battery configurations. However, unlike traditional intercalation electrodes, the low utilization of “hostless” metal anodes due to the intrinsically disordered plating/stripping impedes their practical applications. Herein, we report ordered planar plating/stripping in a bulk zinc (Zn) anode to achieve an extremely high depth of discharge exceeding 90% with negligible thickness fluctuation and long-term stable cycling. The Zn can be plated/stripped with (0001)
Zn
preferential orientation throughout the consecutive charge/discharge process, assisted by a self-assembled supramolecular bilayer at the Zn anode-electrolyte interface. Through real-time tracking of the Zn atoms migration, we reveal that the ordered planar plating/stripping is driven by the construction of in-plane Zn─N bindings and the gradient energy landscape at the reaction fronts. The breakthrough results provide alternative insights into the ordered plating/stripping of metal anodes toward rechargeable energy-dense batteries.
Inactivation of adenosine receptor 2A suppresses endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition and inhibits subretinal fibrosis in mice
Authors: Yang Qiuhua , Cai Yongfeng , Ma Qian , Xiong Albert , Xu Peishan , Zhang Zhidan , Xu Jiean , Zhou Yaqi , Liu Zhiping , Zhao Dingwei , Asara John , Li Wei , Shi Huidong , Caldwell Ruth B. , Sodhi Akrit , Huo Yuqing
Published: March 2024

Anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy has had a substantial impact on the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), the leading cause of vision loss in older adults. Despite treatment, many patients with nAMD still develop severe and irreversible visual impairment because of the development of subretinal fibrosis. We recently reported the anti-inflammatory and antiangiogenic effects of inhibiting the gene encoding adenosine receptor 2A (Adora2a), which has been implicated in cardiovascular disease. Here, using two mouse models of subretinal fibrosis (mice with laser injury–induced CNV or mice with a deficiency in the very low–density lipoprotein receptor), we found that deletion ofAdora2aeither globally or specifically in endothelial cells reduced subretinal fibrosis independently of angiogenesis. We showed thatAdora2a-dependent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition contributed to the development of subretinal fibrosis in mice with laser injury–induced CNV. Deficiency ofAdora2ain cultured mouse and human choroidal endothelial cells suppressed induction of the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition. A metabolomics analysis of cultured human choroidal endothelial cells showed thatADORA2Aknockdown with an siRNA reversed the increase in succinate because of decreased succinate dehydrogenase B expression under fibrotic conditions. Pharmacological inhibition of ADORA2A with a small-molecule KW6002 in both mouse models recapitulated the reduction in subretinal fibrosis observed in mice with genetic deletion ofAdora2a. ADORA2A inhibition may be a therapeutic approach to treat subretinal fibrosis associated with nAMD.
BPR3P0128, a non-nucleoside RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibitor, inhibits SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and exerts synergistic antiviral activity in combination with remdesivir
Authors: Tang Wen-Fang , Chang Yu-Hsiu , Lin Cheng-Chin , Jheng Jia-Rong , Hsieh Chung-Fan , Chin Yuan-Fan , Chang Tein-Yao , Lee Jin-Ching , Liang Po-Huang , Lin Chia-Yi , Lin Guan-Hua , Cai Jie-Yun , Chen Yu-Li , Chen Yuan-Siao , Tsai Shan-Ko , Liu Ping-Cheng , Yang Chuen-Mi , Shadbahr Tolou , Tang Jing , Hsu Yu-Lin , Huang Chih-Heng , Wang Ling-Yu , Chen Cheng Cheung , Kau Jyh-Hwa , Hung Yi-Jen , Lee Hsin-Yi , Wang Wen-Chieh , Tsai Hui-Ping , Horng Jim-Tong
Published: March 2024

Viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), a highly conserved molecule in RNA viruses, has recently emerged as a promising drug target for broad-acting inhibitors. Through a Vero E6-based anti-cytopathic effect assay, we found that BPR3P0128, which incorporates a quinoline core similar to hydroxychloroquine, outperformed the adenosine analog remdesivir in inhibiting RdRp activity (EC
50
= 0.66 µM and 3 µM, respectively). BPR3P0128 demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against various severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern. When introduced after viral adsorption, BPR3P0128 significantly decreased SARS-CoV-2 replication; however, it did not affect the early entry stage, as evidenced by a time-of-drug-addition assay. This suggests that BPR3P0128’s primary action takes place during viral replication. We also found that BPR3P0128 effectively reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in human lung epithelial Calu-3 cells infected with SARS-CoV-2. Molecular docking analysis showed that BPR3P0128 targets the RdRp channel, inhibiting substrate entry, which implies it operates differently—but complementary—with remdesivir. Utilizing an optimized cell-based minigenome RdRp reporter assay, we confirmed that BPR3P0128 exhibited potent inhibitory activity. However, an enzyme-based RdRp assay employing purified recombinant nsp12/nsp7/nsp8 failed to corroborate this inhibitory activity. This suggests that BPR3P0128 may inhibit activity by targeting host-related RdRp-associated factors. Moreover, we discovered that a combination of BPR3P0128 and remdesivir had a synergistic effect—a result likely due to both drugs interacting with separate domains of the RdRp. This novel synergy between the two drugs reinforces the potential clinical value of the BPR3P0128-remdesivir combination in combating various SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.
Molecular mechanisms that govern infection and antifungal resistance in Mucorales
Authors: Lax Carlos , Nicolás Francisco E. , Navarro Eusebio , Garre Victoriano
Published: March 2024

The World Health Organization has established a fungal priority pathogens list that includes species critical or highly important to human health. Among them is the order Mucorales, a fungal group comprising at least 39 species responsible for the life-threatening infection known as mucormycosis. Despite the continuous rise in cases and the poor prognosis due to innate resistance to most antifungal drugs used in the clinic, Mucorales has received limited attention, partly because of the difficulties in performing genetic manipulations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further escalated cases, with some patients experiencing the COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, highlighting the urgent need to increase knowledge about these fungi. This review addresses significant challenges in treating the disease, including delayed and poor diagnosis, the lack of accurate global incidence estimation, and the limited treatment options. Furthermore, it focuses on the most recent discoveries regarding the mechanisms and genes involved in the development of the disease, antifungal resistance, and the host defense response. Substantial advancements have been made in identifying key fungal genes responsible for invasion and tissue damage, host receptors exploited by the fungus to invade tissues, and mechanisms of antifungal resistance. This knowledge is expected to pave the way for the development of new antifungals to combat mucormycosis. In addition, we anticipate significant progress in characterizing Mucorales biology, particularly the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis and antifungal resistance, with the possibilities offered by CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genetic manipulation of the previously intractable Mucorales species.
Novel influenza A viruses in pigs with zoonotic potential, Chile
Authors: Tapia Rodrigo , Brito Bárbara , Saavedra Marco , Mena Juan , García-Salum Tamara , Rathnasinghe Raveen , Barriga Gonzalo , Tapia Karla , García Victoria , Bucarey Sergio , Jang Yunho , Wentworth David , Torremorell Montserrat , Neira Víctor , Medina Rafael A.
Published: March 2024

Novel H1N2 and H3N2 swine influenza A viruses (IAVs) have recently been identified in Chile. The objective of this study was to evaluate their zoonotic potential. We perform phylogenetic analyses to determine the genetic origin and evolution of these viruses, and a serological analysis to determine the level of cross-protective antibodies in the human population. Eight genotypes were identified, all with pandemic H1N1 2009-like internal genes. H1N1 and H1N2 were the subtypes more commonly detected. Swine H1N2 and H3N2 IAVs had hemagglutinin and neuraminidase lineages genetically divergent from IAVs reported worldwide, including human vaccine strains. These genes originated from human seasonal viruses were introduced into the swine population since the mid-1980s. Serological data indicate that the general population is susceptible to the H3N2 virus and that elderly and young children also lack protective antibodies against the H1N2 strains, suggesting that these viruses could be potential zoonotic threats. Continuous IAV surveillance and monitoring of the swine and human populations is strongly recommended.

IMPORTANCE

In the global context, where swine serve as crucial intermediate hosts for influenza A viruses (IAVs), this study addresses the pressing concern of the zoonotic potential of novel reassortant strains. Conducted on a large scale in Chile, it presents a comprehensive account of swine influenza A virus diversity, covering 93.8% of the country’s industrialized swine farms. The findings reveal eight distinct swine IAV genotypes, all carrying a complete internal gene cassette of pandemic H1N1 2009 origin, emphasizing potential increased replication and transmission fitness. Genetic divergence of H1N2 and H3N2 IAVs from globally reported strains raises alarms, with evidence suggesting introductions from human seasonal viruses since the mid-1980s. A detailed serological analysis underscores the zoonotic threat, indicating susceptibility in the general population to swine H3N2 and a lack of protective antibodies in vulnerable demographics. These data highlight the importance of continuous surveillance, providing crucial insights for global health organizations.
Microbiome-based classification models for fresh produce safety and quality evaluation
Authors: Liao Chao , Wang Luxin , Quon Gerald
Published: March 2024

Small sample sizes and loss of sequencing reads during the microbiome data preprocessing can limit the statistical power of differentiating fresh produce phenotypes and prevent the detection of important bacterial species associated with produce contamination or quality reduction. Here, we explored a machine learning-based
k
-mer hash analysis strategy to identify DNA signatures predictive of produce safety (PS) and produce quality (PQ) and compared it against the amplicon sequence variant (ASV) strategy that uses a typical denoising step and ASV-based taxonomy strategy. Random forest-based classifiers for PS and PQ using 7-mer hash data sets had significantly higher classification accuracy than those using the ASV data sets. We also demonstrated that the proposed combination of integrating multiple data sets and leveraging a 7-mer hash strategy leads to better classification performance for PS and PQ compared to the ASV method but presents lower PS classification accuracy compared to the feature-selected ASV-based taxonomy strategy. Due to the current limitation of generating taxonomy using the 7-mer hash strategy, the ASV-based taxonomy strategy with remarkably less computing time and memory usage is more efficient for PS and PQ classification and applicable for important taxa identification. Results generated from this study lay the foundation for future studies that wish and need to incorporate and/or compare different microbiome sequencing data sets for the application of machine learning in the area of microbial safety and quality of food.

IMPORTANCE

Identification of generalizable indicators for produce safety (PS) and produce quality (PQ) improves the detection of produce contamination and quality decline. However, effective sequencing read loss during microbiome data preprocessing and the limited sample size of individual studies restrain statistical power to identify important features contributing to differentiating PS and PQ phenotypes. We applied machine learning-based models using individual and integrated
k
-mer hash and amplicon sequence variant (ASV) data sets for PS and PQ classification and evaluated their classification performance and found that random forest (RF)-based models using integrated 7-mer hash data sets achieved significantly higher PS and PQ classification accuracy. Due to the limitation of taxonomic analysis for the 7-mer hash, we also developed RF-based models using feature-selected ASV-based taxonomic data sets, which performed better PS classification than those using the integrated 7-mer hash data set. The RF feature selection method identified 480 PS indicators and 263 PQ indicators with a positive contribution to the PS and PQ classification.
Patient–physician communication on herbal medicine use during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Im Hyea Bin , Hwang Jung Hye , Choi Dain , Choi Soo Jeung , Han Dongwoon
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Lack of transparent communication between patients and physicians regarding the use of herbal medicine (HM) presents a major public health challenge, as inappropriate HM use poses health risks. Considering the widespread use of HM and the risk of adverse events, it is crucial for pregnant women to openly discuss their HM use with healthcare providers. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of pregnant women’s HM use and disclosure to healthcare providers and to examine the relationship between HM disclosure and various maternal and child health (MCH) measures.

Methods

A systematic search of five databases was conducted for cross-sectional studies on HM use during pregnancy published from 2000 to 2023. Data extraction followed a standardised approach, and Stata V.16.0 was used for data analysis. Also, Spearman’s correlation coefficient was calculated to examine the association between use and disclosure of HM and various MCH indicators.

Results

This review included 111 studies across 51 countries on the use of HM among pregnant women. Our findings showed that 34.4% of women used HM during pregnancy, driven by the perception that HM is presumably safer and more natural than conventional medical therapies. However, only 27.9% of the HM users disclosed their use to healthcare providers because they considered HM as harmless and were not prompted by the healthcare providers to discuss their self-care practices. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed between HM disclosure and improved MCH outcomes.

Conclusion

Inadequate communication between pregnant women and physicians on HM use highlights a deficiency in the quality of care that may be associated with unfavourable maternal outcomes. Thus, physician engagement in effective and unbiased communication about HM during antenatal care, along with evidence-based guidance on HM use, can help mitigate the potential risks associated with inappropriate HM use.
Impact of the design of adult mental health inpatient facilities on healthcare staff: a mixed methods systematic review
Authors: Rodríguez-Labajos Laura , Kinloch Joanne , Nicol Louise , Grant Susan , O'Brien Geraldine
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Mental health inpatient facilities are increasingly focusing on creating therapeutic, person-centred care environments. However, research shows that this focus may have unintended consequences for healthcare staff. Designs that do not pay attention to staff needs may risk contributing to stress, burnout, job dissatisfaction and mental exhaustion in the work environment. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesise current research on the design factors of adult mental health inpatient facilities that impact healthcare staff.

Design

A mixed method systematic review was conducted to search for empirical, peer-reviewed studies using the databases CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science from their inception up to 5 September 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute’s critical appraisal checklists were used to assess the methodological quality of the eligible studies. Data were extracted and grouped based on the facility design factors.

Results

In our review, we included 29 peer-reviewed empirical studies that identified crucial design factors impacting healthcare staff in adult mental health inpatient facilities. Key factors included layouts providing optimal visibility, designated work and respite areas, and centrally located nursing stations. Notably, mixed perceptions regarding the benefits and challenges of open and glass-enclosed nursing stations suggest areas requiring further research. Facilities in geographically remote locations also emerged as a factor influencing staff dynamics. Additionally, although only supported by a limited number of studies, the significance of artwork, sensory rooms for respite, appropriate furniture and equipment, and access to alarms was acknowledged as contributory factors.

Conclusion

Through the synthesis of existing research, this review identified that the design of mental health facilities significantly impacts staff well-being, satisfaction, performance and perception of safety. Concluding that, in order to create a well-designed therapeutic environment, it is essential to account for both service users and staff user needs.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022368155.
Sarcopenia in systemic sclerosis: prevalence and impact—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tu Xiangping , Lin Taiping , Ju Yuan , Shu Xiaoyu , Jiang Tingting , Ge Ning , Yue Jirong
Published: March 2024

Objective

This review aims to provide an estimate of sarcopenia prevalence and its impact on clinical characteristics in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

Embase, Medline, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systemically searched from inception to 24 May 2023.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included observational studies that reported the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with SSc.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two reviewers independently performed study selection and data extraction using standardised methods. Risk of bias was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Scale and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using random effects models.

Results

A total of 4583 articles were screened and 9 studies with data from 815 patients were included in the analysis (8 cross-sectional studies and 1 retrospective cohort study). The overall prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with SSc was 22% (95% CI 17% to 28%). Patients with SSc with sarcopenia had a poorer quality of life (mean difference −12.02; 95% CI −19.11 to −4.93) and higher C reactive protein (CRP) levels (standardised mean difference 0.67; 95% CI 0.35 to 1.00).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia is common in patients with SSc. Patients with SSc with sarcopenia had a worse quality of life and higher CRP levels, based on our findings. Given the detrimental impact of sarcopenia on quality of life, future efforts aimed at early identification of sarcopenia in the clinical assessment of patients with SSc may have significance.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022368326.
Exploring associations between pregnancy cravings and sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors: insights from a cross-sectional population study in Jordan
Authors: Kloub Suad M , Banihani Saleem A
Published: March 2024

Objective

To explore the potential associations between pregnancy cravings and various sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Population-based study in Jordan.

Participants

A total of 500 women who had children and experienced pregnancy cravings were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Pregnancy cravings are prevalent among Jordanian women and associated with some sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors.

Results

The results showed that 75.40% (377/500) of women experienced food cravings, with 40.6% and 29.1% of them having iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency, respectively. The most commonly craved food items were sweets (17.2%, 86/500) and salts (22.2%, 115/500), while less than 1.0% of women craved non-food items. No significant correlation (p>0.05) was found between food cravings and the gender of the babies. Significant associations were found between food cravings and the mother’s educational level (p=0.023), weight loss (p<0.001) and diseases such as anaemia (p=0.01).

Conclusion

Pregnancy cravings, particularly for food items, with sweets and salts being the most commonly craved, are prevalent among Jordanian women and are associated with the mother’s educational level, changes in weight and the presence of anaemia. Additionally, the study found that iron and vitamin D deficiencies are prevalent health issues among women experiencing these cravings in Jordan. This research has important implications, emphasising the pressing need for targeted nutritional interventions and healthcare strategies to address identified deficiencies and improve maternal health outcomes in the region.
Analysis of problems and potentials for increasing pandemic resilience in public health administrations in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany—a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Samtlebe Pascal , Niemann Jana , Markert Jenny , Knöchelmann Anja , Bernard Marie
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of resilient, modern, and well-equipped public health administrations from national to communal levels. In Germany, the surveillance, contact tracing, and local adaptions went through local health offices, revealing both their important role and also their lack of equipment and general preparation for health crises. Research on the mode of operation of the public health service (PHS), especially in a time of crisis, is rare. The present study aims to qualitatively and quantitatively assess problem areas, conflict potentials, and challenges that have become apparent for the PHS of Saxony-Anhalt during the pandemic. It focuses on the individual insight of employees of the PHS of Saxony-Anhalt and its 14 health offices to derive concrete needs and fields of action for increasing pandemic preparedness. Furthermore, the prospective personnel and resource-based requirements as well as the necessary structural and organisational changes of the public health departments are to be considered.

Methods and analysis

The study will follow a sequential mixed-methods approach. Introductory expert interviews (n=12) with leading staff of Saxony-Anhalt’s PHS will be conducted, followed by focus group interviews (n=4) with personnel from all departments involved in the pandemic response. Thereafter, a quantitative survey will be carried out to validate and complement the results of the qualitative phase.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained by the Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg ethics commission (Ref number 2023-102). The authors will submit the results of the study to relevant peer-reviewed journals and give national and international oral presentations to researchers, members of the PHS, and policymakers.
Knowledge, attitude and practice of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy
Authors: Sheng Binyue , Yao Dongmei , Zhang Haihua , Tang Jing , Du Xin
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy, aiming to improve their reproductive health and increase their understanding of contraceptive methods.

Design

This is a cross-sectional study.

Setting

The study was conducted at the Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Hubei between 20 November 2022 and 20 January 2023.

Participants

Women with an unplanned pregnancy were included.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The questionnaire was in the Chinese language and included demographic data, KAP assessments. Multivariate linear regression was performed to explore the factors associated with knowledge or practice scores.

Results

During the study period, 510 participants with valid questionnaires were included. The KAP scores were 7.30±2.91, 32.61±3.13 and 28.58±3.59, respectively. Place of residence (urban vs non-urban; B=0.66, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.29, p=0.043) and educational level (master’s degree or above vs post secondary or below; B=1.07, 95% CI 0.17 to 1.96, p=0.020) were positively associated with knowledge. Knowledge (B=0.25, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.32, p<0.001) and attitude (B=0.26, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.32, p<0.001) were positively associated with practice.

Conclusions

This study indicates a low level of KAP regarding contraceptive methods among women facing unplanned pregnancies. Place of residence and educational level were positively associated with knowledge scores. These findings may help improve future sex education policies and programmes.
Universal screening for early detection of chronic autoimmune, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in the general population using capillary blood (UNISCREEN): low-risk interventional, single-centre, pilot study protocol
Authors: Merolla Aurora , De Lorenzo Rebecca , Ferrannini Giulia , Renzi Cristina , Ulivi Francesca , Bazzigaluppi Elena , Lampasona Vito , Bosi Emanuele
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Chronic autoimmune (type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease) and metabolic/cardiovascular (type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension) diseases are highly prevalent across all age ranges representing a major public health burden. Universal screening for prediction/early identification of these conditions is a potential tool for reducing their impact on the general population. The aim of this study is to assess whether universal screening using capillary blood sampling is feasible at a population-based level.

Methods and analysis

This is a low-risk interventional, single-centre, pilot study for a population-based screening programme denominated UNISCREEN. Participants are volunteers aged 1–100 who reside in the town of Cantalupo (Milan, Italy) undergoing: (1) interview collecting demographics, anthropometrics and medical history; (2) capillary blood collection for measurement of type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease-specific autoantibodies and immediate measurement of glucose, glycated haemoglobin and lipid panel by point-of-care devices; (3) venous blood sampling to confirm autoantibody-positivity; (4) blood pressure measurement; (5) fulfilment of a feasibility and acceptability questionnaire. The outcomes are the assessment of feasibility and acceptability of capillary blood screening, the prevalence of presymptomatic type 1 diabetes and undiagnosed coeliac disease, distribution of glucose categories, lipid panel and estimate of cardiovascular risk in the study population. With approximately 3000 inhabitants, the screened population is expected to encompass at least half of its size, approaching nearly 1500 individuals.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol and the informed consent forms have been reviewed and approved by the San Raffaele Hospital Ethics Committee (approval number: 131/INT/2022). Written informed consent is obtained from all study participants or their parents if aged <18. Results will be published in scientific journals and presented at meetings.

Conclusions

If proven feasible and acceptable, this universal screening model would pave the way for larger-scale programmes, providing an opportunity for the implementation of innovative public health programmes in the general population.

Trial registration number

NCT05841719.
Cyberbullying and cyber-victimisation among higher secondary school adolescents in an urban city of Nepal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kunwar Surakshya , Sharma Sudim , Marasini Sabina , Joshi Anjali , Adhikari Ashish , Ranjit Anushka , Byanju Shrestha Ishwori , Shrestha Archana , Shrestha Akina Koju , Karmacharya Biraj Man
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence and factors associated with cyberbullying and cyber-victimisation among high school adolescents of Pokhara Metropolitan City, Nepal.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Setting

Pokhara Metropolitan City, Nepal.

Participants

We used convenient sampling to enrol 450 adolescents aged 16–19 years from four distinct higher secondary schools in Pokhara Metropolitan City.

Outcome measures

We administered the Cyberbullying and an Online Aggression Survey to determine the prevalence of cyberbullying and cyber-victimisation. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the ORs and 95% CIs. Data were analysed using STATA V.13.

Results

The 30-day prevalence of cyberbullying and cyber-victimisation was 14.4% and 19.8%, and the over-the-lifetime prevalence was 24.2% and 42.2%, respectively. Posting mean or hurtful comments online was the most common form of both cyberbullying and cyber-victimisation. Compared with females, males were more likely to be involved in cyberbullying (adjusted OR (AOR)=13.52; 95% CI: 6.04 to 30.25; p value <0.001) and cyber-victimised (AOR=2.22; 95% CI: 1.33 to 3.73; p value <0.05). Using the internet almost every day was associated with cyberbullying (AOR=9.44; 95% CI: 1.17 to 75.79; p value <0.05) and cyber-victimisation (AOR=4.96; 95% CI: 1.06 to 23.18; p value <0.05). Students from urban place of residence were associated with both cyberbullying (AOR=2.45; 95% CI: 1.23 to 4.88; p value <0.05) and cyber-victimisation (AOR=1.77; 95% CI: 1.02 to 3.05; p value <0.05).

Conclusion

The study recommends the implementation of cyber-safety educational programmes, and counselling services including the rational use of internet and periodic screening for cyberbullying in educational institutions. The enforcement of strong anti-bullying policies and regulations could be helpful to combat the health-related consequences of cyberbullying.
Perinatal healthcare for women at risk of children’s social care involvement: a qualitative survey of professionals in England
Authors: Grant Claire , Bicknell-Morel Tamsin , Lever Taylor Billie , Powell Claire , Blackburn Ruth Marion , Lacey Rebecca , Woodman Jenny
Published: March 2024

Background

Women with complex health needs are more at risk of having children’s social care involvement with their newborns than other mothers. Around the time of pregnancy, there are opportunities for health services to support women with these needs and mitigate the risk of mother–baby separation. Yet little is known about healthcare professionals’ experiences of providing this support.

Methods

We administered an online survey to perinatal healthcare professionals across England (n=70 responders), including midwives, obstetricians, perinatal psychologists/psychiatrists and health visitors. We asked about their experiences of providing care for pregnant women with chronic physical conditions, mental health needs, intellectual/developmental disabilities and substance use disorders, who might be at risk of children’s social care involvement. We conducted a framework analysis.

Results

We constructed five themes from participant data. These include (1) inaccessible healthcare for women with complex needs, (2) the challenges and importance of restoring trust, (3) services focusing on individuals, not families, (4) the necessity and caution around multidisciplinary support and (5) underfunded services inhibiting good practice.

Conclusions

Women who are at risk of children’s social care involvement will likely experience perinatal healthcare inequities. Our findings suggest that current perinatal healthcare provision for this population is inadequate and national guidelines need updated to inform support.
Promoting equitable and patient-centred care: an analysis of patient satisfaction in urban, rural and remote primary care sites in the Philippines
Authors: Panganiban Janelle Micaela S , Loreche Arianna Maever , De Mesa Regine Ynez H , Camiling-Alfonso Romelei , Fabian Noleen Marie C , Dans Leonila F , Galingana Cara Lois T , Lopez Johanna Faye E , Casile Ray U , Aquino Maria Rhodora N , Rey Mia P , Sanchez Josephine T , Javelosa Mark Anthony U , Tan-Lim Carol Stephanie C , Marfori Jose Rafael A , Paterno Ramon Pedro , Dans Antonio L
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study measured changes in patient satisfaction levels before and after the introduction of primary care system strengthening interventions in urban, rural, and remote sites in the Philippines.

Methods

A previously validated 16-item questionnaire was distributed to 200 patients per site before implementation of interventions and to a different set of 200 patients 1 year after implementation. We compared the percentage change in highly satisfied patients per site before and after implementing interventions using a two-proportion Z-test.

Results

The urban site had a significant increase in patient satisfaction in 13 survey items, which corresponded to the domains of healthcare availability, service efficiency, technical competency and health communication. The rural site had a significant increase in six survey items, which corresponded to the domains of service efficiency, environment, location, health communication and handling. The remote site had a decrease in patient satisfaction in 10 survey items, with a significant increase in only 4 items under the domains of healthcare availability and handling.

Conclusion

Our findings support the ‘inverse equity hypothesis’, where well-resourced urban communities quickly adopt complex health interventions while rural and remote settings experience delays in effectively meeting patient needs and system demands. Extended intervention periods and targeted strategies may be necessary to impact patient satisfaction in underserved areas considerably.
Prevalence of prolonged grief disorder and its symptoms among bereaved individuals in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Meng-Di , Liu Jun-Fa , Zhong Bao-Liang
Published: March 2024

Background

The prevalence of prolonged grief disorder (PGD) and its symptoms among the bereaved population in China vary considerably.

Aims

This meta-analysis aims to estimate the prevalence of PGD and its symptoms among bereaved individuals in China.

Methods

We conducted a literature search in major Chinese and English databases from their inception to 4 October 2023, for cross-sectional studies on the prevalence of PGD or its symptoms in bereaved Chinese individuals. The risk of bias of the included studies and certainty of the evidence were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data (‘JBI checklist’) and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE), respectively. The ‘metaprop’ package in R V.4.1.2 was used to synthesise the prevalence.

Results

A total of 28 studies involving 10 994 bereaved individuals were included in the analysis, with JBI checklist scores between 3 and 7. The combined prevalence (95% confidence interval) of PGD and its symptoms was 8.9% (4.2% to 17.6%) and 32.4% (18.2% to 50.8%), respectively. PGD and its symptoms were most prevalent among those who had lost their only child (22.7%) and those bereaved by earthquakes (80.4%), respectively. The GRADE system assigned a very low certainty level to the evidence for the pooled prevalence of PGD and its symptoms.

Conclusions

The pooled prevalence of PGD and its symptoms indicate a potential high need for grief counselling services among bereaved individuals in China. This need is particularly pronounced in those who have lost their only child and those bereaved due to earthquakes. Further methodologically rigorous studies are needed to provide more accurate prevalence estimates.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023432553.
Improved prediction of thin reservoirs in complex structural regions using post-stack seismic waveform inversion: a case study in the Junggar Basin
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Zhu Peimin , Jiang Ren , Huolin Ma , Ashraf Umar
Published: March 2024

The Mahu sag slope area, which holds significance as an oil and gas resource, still have some underexplored regions because of structural mismatches, presenting a potential challenge to be properly addressed. To resolve, this study conducts a comprehensive investigation concerning structural characteristics, fault combinations, favorable reservoir distribution, reservoir control factors, and oil-water distribution characteristics within the Triassic Baikouquan Formation, evaluating the impact of depositional environments and sedimentary dynamics on reservoir quality. For this purpose, constrained sparse spike inversion and seismic waveform indication inversion were employed to comparatively evaluate oil and gas reservoirs, further integrating petrophysical and geological data with geological modeling to enhance accuracy in complex structural geology and enable high-precision reservoir prediction. The findings elucidated the distribution range of the Baikouquan Formation and the location of oil reservoir sand bodies, as exemplified by well B and identified potential hydrocarbon traps, offering valuable insights into reservoir performance. It demonstrated comparatively reliable effects and considerable predictability power of seismic waveform indication inversion. These outcomes provide a strong foundation for future evaluations and multi-layer system deployment in the region by serving as a novel valuable framework for subsequent development activities not only in the Mahu sag but also in similar regions.
Investigating feather corticosterone and fault bars along the length of domestic male turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) feathers
Authors: Naim Anna R. , van Staaveren Nienke , Wood Benjamin J. , Harlander-Matauschek Alexandra , Baes Christine F. , Leishman Emily M.
Published: March 2024

Fault bars are visible deformities in the feather structure potentially related to the stress response and may be an interesting trait that can reflect robustness. This study’s objective was to describe fault bars along the length of domestic turkey feathers and investigate whether fault bars are associated with feather corticosterone (FCORT). The same primary wing feather was evaluated from 75 male turkeys from three genetic lines. Feathers were cut into three (proximal, middle, and distal) sections to score fault bar presence, incidence, and severity. FCORT was measured for each feather section using ELISA. Linear mixed models were used to investigate differences in the fault bar presence, incidence, and severity between feather sections and genetic line, as well as investigate associations between the fault bar measures and FCORT. There was a significant increase in FCORT and fault bar incidence from proximal to distal feather sections ( P < 0.0001). In the distal section only, sections with fault bars had significantly higher FCORT compared to sections without fault bars ( P = 0.0088). No associations were found between fault bars and FCORT in the other sections. Consequently, associating FCORT and fault bars using whole primary wing feathers may be challenging. Future work should reevaluate this relationship longitudinally to better understand fault bar development.