bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart farming based on IoT to predict conditions using machine learning
Authors: Widianto Mochammad Haldi , Setiawan Yovanka Davincy , Ghilchrist Bryan , Giovan Gerry
Published: July 2024

Smart farming is a type of technology that utilizes the internet of things (IoT) to provide information on agricultural and environmental conditions as well as perform automation. Some of these ecological conditions can be used and analyzed in machine learning (ML) data management. This study focuses on utilizing ML algorithms to find the best prediction; typically used methods include linear regression, decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). In the application of smart farming, research on IoT and artificial intelligence (AI) is still uncommon since most IoT cannot make predictions like AI. Because basically, some IoT can't make predictions as AI does. In this Study, predictions were made by looking at the regression results in the form of root mean square error (RMSE) and absolute error. The results show a strong and weak correlation between features (positive or negative). The best prediction results are obtained by XGBoost when predicting temperature (RMSE 6.656 and absolute error 3.948) and (soil moisture 17.151 and absolute error 11.269). However, using different parameters (RMSE RF and absolute error DT) on RF and DT resulted in good and distinct results. Linear regression, on the other hand, produced unsatisfactory and poor result.
Timing issues on power side-channel leakage of advanced encryption standard circuits designed by high-level synthesis
Authors: Miura Yuto , Nishikawa Hiroki , Kong Xiangbo , Tomiyama Hiroyuki
Published: July 2024

In recent years, field programmable gate array (FPGA) have been used in many internet of things (IoT) devices and are equipped with cryptographic circuits to ensure security. However, they are exposed to the risk of cryptographic keys being stolen by side-channel attacks. Countermeasures against side-channel attacks have been developed, but they are becoming more of a threat to IoT devices due to the diversity of attacks. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the basic characteristics of side-channel attacks. Therefore, this study clarifies the relationship between two timing issues, the clock period of the circuit and the power sampling interval, and the amount of side-channel leakage. We design seven advanced encryption standard (AES) circuits with different clock periods and conduct empirical experiments using logic simulations to clarify the correlation between the two timings and the amount of side-channel leakage. T-test is used to evaluate the leakage amount, which is evaluated based on four metrics. From the results, we argue that the clock period and sampling interval do not interfere with each other in the side-channel leakage amount.
Highly selective filtering power divider using substrate integrated waveguide technique for radar applications
Authors: Patel Yogeshkumar Bhadreshbhai , Patel Amrutbhai Narshihbhai
Published: July 2024

This article exhibits a filtering power divider designed with substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technique, having the power dividing as well as filtering functionalities. In the design band-pass performance is realized by merging SIW structure having high-pass response and complementary split ring resonator (CSRRs) with parallel tank LC resonant response and the dumbbells shape defected ground structure (DGS) with high out of band rejection characteristics. The anticipated structure serves as both a power divider and a filter, it reduces both the cost and the size of the system. Structure is constructed and tested to confirm the design functionality. The measurement result shows the return loss of -25.94 dB with 3-dB fractional bandwidth of 2.85% at 14 GHz.
Uncovering patterns of white matter degeneration in normal aging: Links between morphometry and microstructure
Authors: Robinson Tyler D. , Sun Yutong L. , Chang Paul T.H. , Chen J. Jean
Published: July 2024

While tract-wise differences in volume and microstructure are common targets of investigation in age-related changes in the white matter (WM), there has been relatively little exploration into other attributes of tract morphometry or its relation to microstructure in vivo, and limited understanding on how they jointly inform the understanding of the WM aging trajectory. This study examines 10 WM tracts for tract-wise differences in morphometry (i.e., volume, length, and volume-to-length ratio) and microstructural integrity (i.e., fractional anisotropy, mean diffusivity, axial diffusivity, and radial diffusivity) using diffusion MRI data from the Human Connectome Project in Aging (HCP-A) with the goal of laying the foundation for a more comprehensive model of age-related WM microstructure-morphometry trajectories with a special focus on age-shifted correlations and sex differences. Results indicated that degeneration in microstructure was detectable at younger ages than changes in morphometry, with widely heterogeneous patterns of interrelation and morphometry-microstructural associations in aging both across tracts and between sexes. Multi-parametric signatures of decline suggest differing stages or mechanisms of degeneration across tracts, with female subjects exhibiting a higher proportion of tracts in later stages of decline than males. This work highlights the value of integrating microstructural and morphometric measures of WM health, and encourages the integration of yet more modalities in improving our mechanistic understanding of WM aging.
Nomenclatural synopsis of the new Calea ser. Candolleanae (Asteraceae: Neurolaeneae), a clade endemic to Eastern and Central Brazil
Authors: BUENO VINICIUS R. , SILVA GUSTAVO H. L. , REIS-SILVA GENILSON A. , TELES ARISTÔNIO M. , NAKAJIMA JIMI N. , GOSTEL MORGAN R. , HEIDEN GUSTAVO
Published: July 2024

Molecular phylogenetic reconstruction of Calea demonstrated that the circumscription of infrageneric groups should be altered or that the description of new sections and series is necessary for recognition of monophyletic taxa. One of these infrageneric groups is C. ser. Candolleanae, newly proposed here. Previously recognized as an informal complex, this group comprises eight species that occur exclusively in Brazil. Most of its species can be characterized by long-pedunculate radiate capitula, campanulate involucre, epaleaceous or partly paleaceous receptacle, strigose or glabrous cypselae, and pappus scales 0.1–1.5 mm long. In order to improve our understanding of this series, we generated a nomenclatural synopsis, revising protologues and type material. We propose 6 lectotypifications and 1 neotypification. In addition, we record new Brazilian state level occurrences for three species: C. angusta (Alagoas), C. gardneriana (Maranhão), and C. martiana (Bahia).
Resurrection and emended description of Reevesia lofouensis (Malvaceae)
Authors: CHEN XIN , DONG MENG-DIE , DENG HUA-GE , LI QIANG
Published: July 2024

Reevesia lofouensis (Malvaceae) from Guangdong, China, has been treated as a synonym of R. thyrsoidea recently. However, R. lofouensis differs from R. thyrsoidea in having densely yellowish stellate-tomentose branchlets and petioles, relatively large inflorescence with more flowers. Therefore, R. lofouensis is reinstated as a distinct species. An emended description of R. lofouensis with a detailed description of the flower is also provided here.
Taxonomic studies of Cycas debaoensis (Cycadaceae) from China
Authors: XI HUI-HUI , ZHAN QING-QING , LIU JIAN , FENG XIU-YAN , GONG XUN
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, species delimitation based on morphological and distributional evidence often leads to over- or underestimation of species diversity. The primary distribution area of Cycas debaoensis includes two habitats, which were initially published as two separate species, i.e., C. debaoensis in the karst habitat, and C. panshuiensis, which was originally published as Cycas gracilis Y.Y. Huang, Y.C. Zhong et Z.F. Lu, in the sand habitat. However, field investigations and population sampling in these two habitats revealed a certain degree of morphological transition and variation among the populations. Subsequent population genetic analysis showed minimal genetic differentiation among the populations in the two habitats, suggesting that they should be merged as a single species. Additionally, the typification of the name C. debaoensis is also discussed.
Morphology and feeding biology of larvae of the South African endemic water beetle genus Prosthetops Waterhouse, 1879 (Coleoptera: Hydraenidae)
Authors: DELGADO JUAN A. , BILTON DAVID T.
Published: July 2024

The larvae of three species of the South African endemic water beetle genus Prosthetops Waterhouse, 1879 are described and illustrated for the first time. The second and third instar larvae of Prosthetops nitens (Péringuey, 1892), as well as third instar larva of P. megacephalus (Boheman, 1851) and P. wolfbergensis Bilton, 2013, are treated here. These three species share a combination of morphological and chaetotaxic characters that can be used for positive identification of larvae of this genus: head capsule with pores FC1 present, second antennomeres with two well-developed distal sensory appendages, maxillary seta Cdo1 very reduced, thoracic subprimary setae Dd’ absent, subprimary setae Dc’ minute and inserted on the boundary between pretergal and tergal areas, urogomphi moderately separated at the base, anal lobe with well-developed dorsal, lateral and ventral plates, and a lack of anal hooks. Some insights on the gut-contents of the larva of P. wolfbergensis are offered and an unusual urogomphal malformation observed in a larva of P. nitens is also described and illustrated. These are the first described larvae of the subfamily Prosthetopinae, and their morphology is compared to that of other known hydraenid larvae.
Hippocrepis fuelleborni (Digenea: Notocotylidae) from Argentina, morphological, molecular and phylogenetic studies
Authors: MARTINS NATALIA BEATRIZ GUERREIRO , ROBLES MARÍA DEL ROSARIO , CANOVA VICTORIA , DIAZ JULIA INÉS , BALCAZAR DARIO , CALLEJÓN ROCÍO
Published: July 2024

Notocotylidae is a family with a cosmopolitan distribution, with 13 genera parasitizing birds and mammals. Four of these genera were registered in the Americas, and two parasitizing rodents in Argentina. In this paper, specimens of the genus Hippocrepis parasitizing Holochilus brasiliensis from Argentina are studied on the basis of morphological and molecular characteristics. Eleven Ho. brasiliensis specimens were collected in seven localities from the Cuenca del Plata region. A total of 192 specimens of digeneans were found in a single Ho. brasiliensis. Conventional morphological and molecular analyses were used. The digenean specimens were identified as Hippocrepis fuelleborni. Furthermore, the molecular characterization of three genetic markers for Hi. fuelleborni is provided. This study contributes to the first record of the genus Hippocrepis in cricetid rodents. The continuity of the studies on this genus and the incorporation of more haplotypes from different genera of Notocotylidae will allow us to recognize the relationship among genera and provide a new systematic proposal.
A revision of Rhombuniopsis Haas, 1920 (Unionida, Unionidae) endemic to the ancient lakes of Yunnan, China, with descriptions of two new species
Authors: XIANG HONG QUAN , HE YUE MING , ZHANG LE JIA , GAO HAN , GUO LIANG , LU YI ZHI , FAN SHU YUN , CHEN HUI
Published: July 2024

Freshwater mussels are an important component of the macrobenthic fauna but due to modern environmental pollution and destruction, the abundance of freshwater mussels has declined rapidly, and this fauna is one of the most threatened animal groups in the world. China is the country with the second highest diversity of freshwater mussels in the world. Rhombuniopsis is a genus of freshwater mussels endemic to the ancient lakes and surrounding area in Yunnan Province, China. Species in this genus are threatened with extinction and have not been recorded alive for many years. We present a revision of Rhombuniopsis based on the morphological study of the museum materials and newly collected specimens, and propose two species new to science: Rhombuniopsis linan sp. nov. and Rhombuniopsis songmeng sp. nov. The two new species are considered extinct because the lakes they inhabited were completely dried up due to human activity. We compare our recent data with the historical studies to trace the population change of the Rhombuniopsis species in different lakes. We revise the distribution and assess the conservation status for each species. The present work confirms the importance of conservation of molluscs in the ancient lakes of Yunnan and suggest that several species are already extinct.
Description of a new species of Parastephanellus Enderlein, 1906 (Hymenoptera: Stephanidae) from Western Ghats, India
Authors: AMAL S. , KUMAR P. GIRISH , ACHTERBERG CORNELIS VAN
Published: July 2024

A new species of Parastephanellus Enderlein, 1906 Parastephanellus binoyi Amal, Girish Kumar, & van Achterberg sp. nov. is described from Western Ghats, India. A key to the Indian species is provided along with a distribution map.
Successful management of a delayed presentation of traumatic descending thoracic aorta pseudoaneurysm: a literature review based on a case report
Authors: Sadeghian Mohammad , Ebrahimi Pouya , Soltani Parnian , Ghasemi Massoud , Taheri Homa , Mehrpooya Maryam
Published: July 2024

Background

Blunt traumatic aortic injury (BTAI) is the second leading cause of death due to traumas in young patients. The primary presentation might be chest or interscapular pain, difficulty in breathing, and, in severe cases, hypotension. Considering the rapid deterioration of these patients’ clinical conditions, prompt diagnosis and treatment initiation are crucial. In these injuries, the most involved parts of the aorta are the isthmus (distal to the left subclavian artery) and the descending part in the thorax. Therefore, the main diagnostic strategies include transthoracic echocardiography, CT angiography, and endovascular diagnostic approaches.

Case presentation

The patient was a 19-year-old male presenting with the symptoms of chest pain, dyspnea, and extremities excruciating pain after a car turnover. The initial evaluation showed no abnormal cardiovascular finding except bilateral hemothorax, addressed with chest tubes. Twelve hours later, when the patient was under observation for orthopedic surgeries, his chest pain and dyspnea started, and TTE and CTA showed a grade three descending aneurysm of the aorta. The patient was treated immediately with an endovascular procedure of stent implantation. A delayed debranching surgery was also performed, which resulted in desirable outcomes and uneventful follow-up.

Conclusion

Although open thoracic surgery is the main and almost the only option for treating aneurysms of the aorta in hemodynamically unstable patients, the endovascular procedure has shown superior outcomes in selected patients with appropriate anatomy. Debranching surgery, which can be done simultaneously or with delay after the initial procedure, has proven protective against thromboembolic cerebral events.

Clinical key point

Patients with an aneurysm of the aorta should be transported to a medical center with a multidisciplinary team for an urgent evaluation and treatment. The initial resuscitation and diagnosis are challenging, considering the fatal nature of these injuries, and the selection of the treatment is based on the patient's clinical condition and evaluated anatomy in cardiovascular imaging.
Resveratrol-based nano-formulations as an emerging therapeutic strategy for ovarian carcinoma: autophagy stimulation and SIRT-1/Beclin/MMP-9/P53/AKT signaling
Authors: Kadry Mai O.
Published: July 2024

Background

Resveratrol (RVS) is a stilbene derivative polyphenolic compound extensively recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-aging properties, along with its enormous promise in carcinoma treatment. Unfortunately, the oral supplementation of RVS possesses physicochemical and pharmacokinetic constraints that hinder its effects, necessitating the development of suitable administration strategies to improve its effectiveness. As a result, the current study evaluates the use of resveratrol nano-formulations in ovarian cancer therapy. Ovarian cancer was induced in rats using (35 mg/kg BW) 20-Methyl cholanthrene (20-MC) followed by resveratrol and resveratrol nano-formulations therapy for one month.

Results

20-MC highlighted a noticeable alleviation in autophagy (ATF) biomarkers SIRT-1 and Beclin, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers MMP-9, P53 and AKT in addition to oxidative and nitrosative stress biomarkers TAC and NOX and ovarian cancer tumor biomarker CA-125.

Conclusions

Resveratrol and resveratrol nano-formulations modulated autophagy, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers with the upper effect for resveratrol nano-formulations in competing 20-MC-induced ovarian cancer.
Transcriptomic changes in the posterior pallium of male zebra finches associated with social niche conformance
Authors: Riyahi Sepand , Liebermann-Lilie Navina D. , Jacobs Arne , Korsten Peter , Mayer Uwe , Schmoll Tim
Published: July 2024

Animals plastically adjust their physiological and behavioural phenotypes to conform to their social environment—social niche conformance. The degree of sexual competition is a critical part of the social environment to which animals adjust their phenotypes, but the underlying genetic mechanisms are poorly understood. We conducted a study to investigate how differences in sperm competition risk affect the gene expression profiles of the testes and two brain areas (posterior pallium and optic tectum) in breeding male zebra finches (Taeniopygia castanotis). In this pre-registered study, we investigated a large sample of 59 individual transcriptomes. We compared two experimental groups: males held in single breeding pairs (low sexual competition) versus those held in two pairs (elevated sexual competition) per breeding cage. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we observed significant effects of the social treatment in all three tissues. However, only the treatment effects found in the pallium were confirmed by an additional randomisation test for statistical robustness. Likewise, the differential gene expression analysis revealed treatment effects only in the posterior pallium (ten genes) and optic tectum (six genes). No treatment effects were found in the testis at the single gene level. Thus, our experiments do not provide strong evidence for transcriptomic adjustment specific to manipulated sperm competition risk. However, we did observe transcriptomic adjustments to the manipulated social environment in the posterior pallium. These effects were polygenic rather than based on few individual genes with strong effects. Our findings are discussed in relation to an accompanying paper using the same animals, which reports behavioural results consistent with the results presented here.
Biofortification of Triticum species: a stepping stone to combat malnutrition
Authors: Kumar Jitendra , Saini Dinesh Kumar , Kumar Ashish , Kumari Supriya , Gahlaut Vijay , Rahim Mohammed Saba , Pandey Ajay Kumar , Garg Monika , Roy Joy
Published: July 2024

Background

Biofortification represents a promising and sustainable strategy for mitigating global nutrient deficiencies. However, its successful implementation poses significant challenges. Among staple crops, wheat emerges as a prime candidate to address these nutritional gaps. Wheat biofortification offers a robust approach to enhance wheat cultivars by elevating the micronutrient levels in grains, addressing one of the most crucial global concerns in the present era.

Main text

Biofortification is a promising, but complex avenue, with numerous limitations and challenges to face. Notably, micronutrients such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu) can significantly impact human health. Improving Fe, Zn, Se, and Cu contents in wheat could be therefore relevant to combat malnutrition. In this review, particular emphasis has been placed on understanding the extent of genetic variability of micronutrients in diverse Triticum species, along with their associated mechanisms of uptake, translocation, accumulation and different classical to advanced approaches for wheat biofortification.

Conclusions

By delving into micronutrient variability in Triticum species and their associated mechanisms, this review underscores the potential for targeted wheat biofortification. By integrating various approaches, from conventional breeding to modern biotechnological interventions, the path is paved towards enhancing the nutritional value of this vital crop, promising a brighter and healthier future for global food security and human well-being.
Association between molecular markers and resistance to bacterial blight using binary logistic analysis
Authors: Fatemifard Seyyedeh Zahra , Masoumiasl Asad , Rezaei Rasool , Fazeli-Nasab Bahman , Salehi-Sardoei Ali , Ghorbanpour Mansour
Published: July 2024

The most effective strategy for managing wheat bacterial blight caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae is believed to be the use of resistant cultivars. Researching the correlation between molecular markers and stress resistance can expedite the plant breeding process. The current study aims to evaluate the response of 27 bread wheat cultivars to bacterial blight disease in order to identify resistant and susceptible cultivars and to pinpoint ISSR molecular markers associated with bacterial blight resistance genes. ISSR markers are recommended for assessing a plant's disease resistance. This experiment is focused on identifying ISSR molecular markers linked to bacterial blight resistance. After applying the bacterial solution to the leaves, we performed sampling to determine the infection percentage in the leaves at different intervals (7, 14, and 18 days after spraying). In most cultivars, the average leaf infection percentage decreased 18 days after spraying on young leaves. However, in some cultivars such as Niknegad, Darab2, and Zarin, leaf infection increased in older leaves and reached up to 100% necrosis. In our study, 12 ISSR primers generated a total of 170 bands, with 156 being polymorphic. The primers F10 and F5 showed the highest polymorphism, while the F7 primer exhibited the lowest polymorphism. Cluster analysis grouped these cultivars into four categories. The resistant group included Qods, Omid, and Atrak cultivars, while the semi-resistant and susceptible groups comprised the rest of the cultivars. Through binary logistic analysis, we identified three Super oxide dismutase-related genes that contribute to plant resistance to bacterial blight. These genes were linked to the F3, F5, and F12 primers in regions I (1500 bp), T (1000 bp), and G (850 bp), respectively. We also identified seven susceptibility-associated genes. Atrak, Omid, and Qods cultivars exhibited resistance against bacterial blight, and three genes associated with this resistance were linked to the F3, F5, and F12 primers. These markers can be used for screening or transferring tolerance to other wheat cultivars in breeding programs.
Evaluation of different bermudagrass germplasm at physiological and molecular level under shade along longitudinal and latitudinal gradients
Authors: Noor Maryam , Kaleem Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Tanveer , Feng Guilan , Zhang Jingxue , Nazir Usman , Fan Jibiao , Yan Xuebing
Published: July 2024

Responses of turfgrass to shade vary in individual species, and the degree and quality of low light; therefore, the selection of low light tolerant cultivars of turfgrass is important and beneficial for turf management rather than other practices. The stolons of thirteen bermudagrass genotypes were planted with two treatments and three replications of each treatment to establish for one month in the Yangzhou University Jiangsu China greenhouse. The established plants were transferred outside of the greenhouse, and 50% shading was applied to them with a black net. After 30 days of stress treatment, the morpho-physiological and biochemical analyses were performed. The expression of genes such as HEMA, HY5, PIF4, and Cu/ZnSOD was assessed. Cynodon dactylon is a C4, and perennial that grows as lawn grass and is used as forage. Based on different indicator measurements, the most shade-tolerant germplasm was L01 and L06 along the longitudes and L09 and L10 along the latitudes. At the same time, L02 and L08 were more susceptible, respectively. However, germplasm showed greater tolerance in higher latitudes while longitudinal plants showed less stress response. The current study aimed (1) to screen out the most shade-tolerant Cynodon dactylon genotype among 13 along longitudinal and latitudinal gradients in China. (2) to examine morpho-physiological indicators of different bermudagrassgenotypes; (3) to evaluate if and how differences in various indicators of bermudagrass correlated with geographic region. This study will significantly advance the use of Cynodon germplasm in breeding, genomics, management, nomenclature, and phylogeographical study. It will decisively define whether natural selection and migration can drive evolutionary responses for populations to adapt to their new environments effectively.
A quantitative study on the impact of a community falls pharmacist role, on medicines optimisation in older people at risk of falls
Authors: Crawford Paula , Plumb Rick , Burns Paula , Flanagan Stephen , Parsons Carole
Published: July 2024

Background

The World Falls guidance includes medication review as part of its recommended multifactorial risk assessment for those at high risk of falling. Use of Falls Risk Increasing Drugs (FRIDs) along with polypharmacy and anticholinergic burden (ACB) are known to increase the risk of falls in older people.

Method

The impact of a community falls pharmacist within a hospital Trust, working as part of a multi-professional community falls prevention service, was evaluated in 92 people aged 65 years or older, by analysing data before and after pharmacist review, namely: number and type of FRIDs prescribed; anticholinergic burden score using ACBcalc®; appropriateness of medicines prescribed; bone health review using an approved too; significance of clinical intervention; cost avoidance, drug cost savings and environmental impact.

Results

Following pharmacist review, there was a reduction in polypharmacy (mean number of medicines prescribed per patient reduced by 8%; p < 0.05) and anticholinergic burden score (average score per patient reduced by 33%; p < 0.05). Medicines appropriateness improved (Medicines Appropriateness Index score decreased by 56%; p < 0.05). There were 317 clinically significant interventions by the community falls pharmacist. One hundred and one FRIDs were deprescribed. Annual cost avoidance and drug cost savings were £40,689-£82,642 and avoidable carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from reducing inappropriate prescribing amounted to 941 kg CO2.

Conclusion

The community falls pharmacist role increases prescribing appropriateness in the older population at risk of falls, and is an effective and cost-efficient means to optimise medicines in this population, as well as having a positive impact on the environment.
Psychological distress among family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in Uganda
Authors: Gumikiriza-Onoria Joy Louise , Nakigudde Janet , Mayega Roy William , Giordani Bruno , Sajatovic Martha , Mukasa Mark Kaddu , Buwembo Dennis , Lwere Kamada , Nakasujja Noeline
Published: July 2024

Background

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) present growing global health challenges, especially in aging populations, such as Uganda. In Uganda, familial caregiving, predominantly undertaken by female relatives, is the primary form of support provided to patients with ADRD. Cultural stigma around dementia and limited access to support services amplify caregivers' challenges. This study examined psychological distress, depression, and quality of life (QoL) among family caregivers of patients with ADRD in Wakiso District, Uganda.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 90 caregivers from three sub-counties in Wakiso, selected through purposive sampling to capture diverse experiences. Participants included caregivers aged 18 years and older who were knowledgeable and had cared for a person with ADRD for not less than six months, with those providing more than 70% of physical care being prioritised. Data were collected using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Caregiver Dementia Quality of Life Measurement Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, with an 80% response rate achieved through local collaboration. The statistical analyses focused on psychological distress, QoL, and depression.

Results

The study included 82.2% females and 17.8% males, with a median age of 52 years for females and 35 years, respectively. Females were more likely to be single or widowed, whereas males were more likely to be married. The study revealed a high prevalence of psychological distress and depression among caregivers (64.4%) regardless of sex. The analysis indicated that having children was a significant predictor of better QoL (OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.79–5.66, p = 0.034) and a lower risk of depression (OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01–0.86, p = 0.036). No other sociodemographic factors were significantly associated with health outcomes across the models.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed a heavy burden of psychological distress and depression among Ugandan caregivers of patients with ADRD, highlighting the need for structured support systems, including mental health services and gender-responsive interventions in low-resource settings.
Urinary concerns among older adults: a qualitative analysis in the context of healthy aging
Authors: Ge Shaoqing , Wu Kuan-Ching , Chien Shao-Yun , Jin Xianglan , Park Suah , Belza Basia
Published: July 2024

Background

Urinary concerns increase with age impacting health and quality of life. The aims of this study were to describe: (1) urinary concerns as an age-related change (ARC); (2) the challenges of urinary concerns; (3) adaptation strategies used to manage urinary concerns; and (4) the value of engaging with aging (EWA) as a framework to promote self-management of urinary concerns.

Methods

Data was used from semi-structured interviews with 29 older adults (mean age 77 years). An iterative coding process was used. A codebook was developed based on a-priori themes derived from the EWA framework, our previous publication, and a line-by-line coding of one of the transcripts. As the analysis progressed, additional codes emerged, enriching the codebook.

Results

Six themes emerged: (1) the participants’ experiences; (2) responses to urinary concerns, (3) adaptation and management strategies; (4) knowledge and understanding of urinary concerns; (5) available capacities and resources; and (6) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on urinary concerns. Participants tended to address their urinary concerns by adjusting routines, medication schedules, or diet patterns. They tried to secure restroom locations or use tools or reminders to resolve their urinary concerns. COVID-19 led to increased inconvenience for older adults to engage in outdoor activities due to the closure of public restrooms.

Conclusions

Our in-depth qualitative analysis found that participants developed personalized adjustments to address their needs and abilities to their urinary concerns. These findings offer insights into the individual aging experience, which will further enhance our understanding and advancement of person-centered care.
Efficacy of chemotherapy plus immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with non-small cell lung cancer who have rare oncogenic driver mutations: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Yamaguchi Teppei , Shimizu Junichi , Matsuzawa Reiko , Watanabe Naohiro , Horio Yoshitsugu , Fujiwara Yutaka
Published: July 2024

Background

Targeted therapy is now the standard of care in driver–oncogene-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Its initial clinical effects are remarkable. However, almost all patients experience treatment resistance to targeted therapy. Hence, chemotherapy is considered a subsequent treatment option. In patients with driver–oncogene-negative NSCLC, combined immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and chemotherapy as the first-line therapy has been found to be beneficial. However, the efficacy of ICI plus chemotherapy against driver–oncogene-positive NSCLC other than epidermal growth factor receptor mutation and anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusion is unclear.

Methods

Using the hospital medical records, we retrospectively reviewed advanced or recurrent NSCLC patients who were treated with chemotherapy with or without ICIs at Aichi Cancer Center Hospital between January 2014 and January 2023. Patients with druggable rare mutations such as KRAS-G12C, MET exon 14 skipping, HER2 20 insertion, BRAF-V600E mutations, and ROS1 and RET rearrangements were analyzed.

Results

In total, 61 patients were included in this analysis. ICI plus chemotherapy was administered in 36 patients (the ICI-chemo group) and chemotherapy in 25 patients (the chemo group). The median progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 14.0 months in the ICI-chemo group and 4.8 months in the chemo group (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.28–1.01). The median overall survival rates were 31.3 and 21.7 months in the ICI-chemo and chemo groups, respectively (HR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.33–1.50). Multivariate Cox regression analysis of PFS revealed that HER2 exon 20 insertion mutation was significantly associated with a poorer PFS (HR: 2.39, 95% CI: 1.19–4.77, P = 0.014). Further, ICI-chemo treatment was significantly associated with a better PFS (HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.25–0.91, P = 0.025).

Conclusion

ICI plus chemotherapy improves treatment efficacy in rare driver–oncogene-positive NSCLC.
TOTEM: a multi-cancer detection and localization approach using circulating tumor DNA methylation markers
Authors: Xiong Dalin , Han Tiancheng , Li Yulong , Hong Yuanyuan , Li Suxing , Li Xi , Tao Wenhui , Huang Yu S. , Chen Weizhi , Li Chunguang
Published: July 2024

Background

Detection of cancer and identification of tumor origin at an early stage improve the survival and prognosis of patients. Herein, we proposed a plasma cfDNA-based approach called TOTEM to detect and trace the cancer signal origin (CSO) through methylation markers.

Methods

We performed enzymatic conversion-based targeted methylation sequencing on plasma cfDNA samples collected from a clinical cohort of 500 healthy controls and 733 cancer patients with seven types of cancer (breast, colorectum, esophagus, stomach, liver, lung, and pancreas) and randomly divided these samples into a training cohort and a testing cohort. An independent validation cohort of 143 healthy controls, 79 liver cancer patients and 100 stomach cancer patients were recruited to validate the generalizability of our approach.

Results

A total of 57 multi-cancer diagnostic markers and 873 CSO markers were selected for model development. The binary diagnostic model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.907, 0.908 and 0.868 in the training, testing and independent validation cohorts, respectively. With a training specificity of 98%, the specificities in the testing and independent validation cohorts were 100% and 98.6%, respectively. Overall sensitivity across all cancer stages was 65.5%, 67.3% and 55.9% in the training, testing and independent validation cohorts, respectively. Early-stage (I and II) sensitivity was 50.3% and 45.7% in the training and testing cohorts, respectively. For cancer patients correctly identified by the binary classifier, the top 1 and top 2 CSO accuracies were 77.7% and 86.5% in the testing cohort (n = 148) and 76.0% and 84.0% in the independent validation cohort (n = 100). Notably, performance was maintained with only 21 diagnostic and 214 CSO markers, achieving a training AUC of 0.865, a testing AUC of 0.866, and an integrated top 2 accuracy of 83.1% in the testing cohort.

Conclusions

TOTEM demonstrates promising potential for accurate multi-cancer detection and localization by profiling plasma methylation markers. The real-world clinical performance of our approach needs to be investigated in a much larger prospective cohort.
Diagnosis of forme fruste keratoconus with scheimpflug photography in Ghanaian patients
Authors: Lartey Seth , Appiagyei Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Aim

This study aimed to differentiate moderate to high myopic astigmatism from forme fruste keratoconus using Pentacam parameters and develop a predictive model for early keratoconus detection.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 196 eyes from 105 patients and compared Pentacam variables between myopic astigmatism (156 eyes) and forme fruste keratoconus (40 eyes) groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cut-off values, and a logistic regression model was used to refine the diagnostic accuracy.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed in most Pentacam variables between the groups (p < 0.05). Parameters such as the Index of Surface Variance (ISV), Keratoconus Index (KI), Belin/Ambrosio Deviation Display (BAD_D) and Back Elevation of the Thinnest Corneal Locale (B.Ele.Th) demonstrated promising discriminatory abilities, with BAD_D exhibiting the highest Area under the Curve. The logistic regression model achieved high sensitivity (92.5%), specificity (96.8%), accuracy (95.9%), and positive predictive value (88.1%).

Conclusion

The simultaneous evaluation of BAD_D, ISV, B.Ele.Th, and KI aids in identifying forme fruste keratoconus cases. Optimal cut-off points demonstrate acceptable sensitivity and specificity, emphasizing their clinical utility pending further refinement and validation across diverse demographics.
Predicting pharmaceutical prices. Advances based on purchase-level data and machine learning
Authors: Fazekas Mihály , Veljanov Zdravko , de Oliveira Alexandre Borges
Published: July 2024

Background

Increased costs in the health sector have put considerable strain on the public budgets allocated to pharmaceutical purchases. Faced with such pressures amplified by financial crises and pandemics, national purchasing authorities are presented with a puzzle: how to procure pharmaceuticals of the highest quality for the lowest price. The literature explored a range of impactful factors using data on producer and reference prices, but largely foregone the use of data on individual purchases by diverse public buyers.

Methods

Leveraging the availability of open data in public procurement from official government portals, the article examines the relationship between unit prices and a host of predictors that account for policies that can be amended nationally or locally. The study uses traditional linear regression (OLS) and a machine learning model, random forest, to identify the best models for predicting pharmaceutical unit prices. To explore the association between a wide variety of predictors and unit prices, the study relies on more than 200,000 purchases in more than 800 standardized pharmaceutical product categories from 10 countries and territories.

Results

The results show significant price variation of standardized products between and within countries. Although both models present substantial potential for predicting unit prices, the random forest model, which can incorporate non-linear relationships, leads to higher explained variance (R2 = 0.85) and lower prediction error (RMSE = 0.81).

Conclusions

The results demonstrate the potential of i) tapping into large quantities of purchase-level data in the health care sector and ii) using machine learning models for explaining and predicting pharmaceutical prices. The explanatory models identify data-driven policy interventions for decision-makers seeking to improve value for money.
Utilizing social media for community risk communication in megacities: analysing the impact of WeChat group information interaction and perception on communication satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai
Authors: Chen Yasai , Chen Yiru , Yu Shan , Yu Shuni
Published: July 2024

Background

Against the backdrop of the global public health crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed significant disparities in the supply and demand of risk information related to public health crises, posing severe challenges to risk governance in megacities. Shanghai, China, introduced community WeChat groups for community communication, effectively facilitating the dissemination and response of grassroots information and providing a new path for interactive governance in the community.

Methods

This study collected 1006 questionnaires from residents of 350 communities in Shanghai through an online survey between June 10 and July 10, 2022. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the impact of different participants (including the community, core residents, and the combined community and core residents) on community risk communication, perceived communication quality, and dissemination themes related to COVID-19 on community communication satisfaction. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 core residents from different types of communities, focusing on the specific methods of risk communication through community WeChat groups and their ability to disseminate information, respond to, and solve problems.

Results

Perceived information coverage and perceived response efficiency are significantly positively correlated with communication satisfaction. Notably, the speed of community information response has the greatest impact on communication satisfaction. Regarding COVID-19-related information dissemination themes, “community outbreaks, supplies, nucleic acids, outbreak prevention measures, and scientific content” all have a significant impact on communication effectiveness, with “nucleic acid testing information” having the greatest impact. Although the statistical data indicate that the participation of core residents in risk communication does not significantly affect communication satisfaction, it seems to be related to the size of the community, and the interview results further validate this conclusion.

Conclusion

In the future, grassroots communities should consider the affordances of social media, recognize the significant correlation between risk communication and grassroots trust, and formulate more detailed and targeted risk communication strategies. In particular, incorporating core residents into “semiformal” grassroots organizations can improve community service quality, thereby enhancing community resilience in the face of public health emergencies.
Effects of major air pollutants on angina hospitalizations: a correlation study
Authors: Zhu Anning , Cao Yongqin , Li Chunlan , Yu Jingze , Liu Miaoxin , Xu Ke , Ruan Ye
Published: July 2024

Background

Angina is a crucial risk signal for cardiovascular disease. However, few studies have evaluated the effects of ambient air pollution exposure on angina.

Objective

We aimed to explore the short-term effects of air pollution on hospitalization for angina and its lag effects.

Methods

We collected data on air pollutant concentrations and angina hospitalizations from 2013 to 2020. Distributed lag nonlinear model (DLNM) was used to evaluate the short-term effects of air pollutants on angina hospitalization under different lag structures. Stratified analysis by sex, age and season was obtained.

Results

A total of 39,110 cases of angina hospitalization were included in the study. The results showed a significant positive correlation between PM2.5, SO2, NO2, and CO and angina hospitalization. Their maximum harmful effects were observed at lag0-7 (RR = 1.042; 95% CI: 1.017, 1.068), lag0-3 (RR = 1.067; 95% CI: 1.005, 1.133), lag0-6 (RR = 1.078; 95% CI: 1.041, 1.117), and lag0-6 (RR = 1.244; 95% CI: 1.109, 1.397), respectively. PM10 did not have an overall risk effect on angina hospitalization, but it did have a risk effect on women and the elderly. O3 was significantly negatively correlated with angina hospitalization, with the most pronounced effect observed at lag0-6 (RR = 0.960; 95% CI: 0.940, 0.982). Stratified analysis results showed that women and the elderly were more susceptible to pollutants, and the adverse effects of pollutants were stronger in the cold season.

Conclusion

Short-term exposure to PM2.5, SO2, NO2, and CO increases the risk of hospitalization for angina.
Global prevalence and predictors of scabies among prisoners: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Delie Amare Mebrat , Bogale Eyob Ketema , Anagaw Tadele Fentabel , Tiruneh Misganaw Guadie , Fenta Eneyew Talie , Adal Ousman , Kebede Natnael
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Scabies is a widespread issue in prisons due to overcrowded living conditions and limited healthcare resources. A recent study published in the Journal of Infection and Public Health discovered that the prevalence of scabies varies greatly among prisoners in different regions and facilities. This review aimed to determine the global prevalence and predictors of scabies among prisoners by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis checklist to report the findings of our systematic review and meta-analysis. Relevant databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, and other grey literature databases were used to search and retrieve articles. The study included both published and unpublished research written in English languages for studies reporting the prevalence of human scabies among prisoners. This review has been registered on PROSPERO. The heterogeneity of the data was evaluated using the I2 statistic. A meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 17 software, with a 95% confidence interval. The researchers also conducted publication bias and sensitivity analysis.

Results

The review included 7 studies involving 1, 309,323 prisoners. All included studies involved cross-sectional study design. The prevalence of scabies among prisoners ranges from 0.72% in Italy to 41.01% in Cameroon. The global pooled prevalence of human scabies among prisoners was found to be 6.57% (95% CI; 2.16–19.94). According to subgroup analysis, the overall prevalence of scabies among African prisoners was 19.55% (95% CI; 9.44–40.45), while the prevalence among prisoners outside of Africa was 1.57% (95% CI; 0.77–3.19). The length of time spent in prison, sharing of clothing or beds, and hygiene practices were found to be factors that were significantly associated with the likelihood of prisoners developing human scabies.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of human scabies is high among prisoners worldwide. Prisoners who spent more time in prison shared clothing or beds, and had poor hygiene practices were more likely to develop human scabies. Thus, efforts should be made by policymakers and program administrators to decrease the prevalence of scabies in prisons. The protocol for this systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with registration number CRD42024516064.