bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social isolation consequences: lessons from COVID-19 pandemic in a context of dynamic lock-down in Chile
Authors: Patrono Alessandra , Renzetti Stefano , Guerini Cristian , Macgowan Mark , Moncada Stefanny M , Placidi Donatella , Memo Maurizio , Lucchini Roberto G.
Published: October 2023

Background: Chile did not adopt general and unified lockdowns for the whole nation but organized itself with dynamic and sometimes irregular lockdowns. These dynamics and consequences of social isolation could be generalized to other contexts of isolation such as those affecting minorities such as immigrants, prisoners, refugees.
Methods: In this study, we investigated the physical and mental health symptoms associated with lifestyle changes due to lockdown among university students in Chile. We examined psychopathological variations in relation to mental health problems in a healthy young population. Our goal was to develop interventions to address these new psychosocial problems in potentially comparable post-pandemic contexts. From May 10th 2021 to June 2th 2021, 420 University students took part in an anonymous survey asking for information on habits and symptoms that emerged during the lockdown in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Three health outcomes were assessed: digestive disorders; headache; fear of COVID-19. Covariates including conditions and lifestyle during the pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 infections in the family, financial situation and productivity were considered in the analysis.
Results: Participants experienced headache and fear of COVID-19 quite frequently during the lockdown period. More than half of the sample also experienced social isolation. Female gender, sleep quality, memory difficulties, and a change in eating habits resulted associated with an increased risk of health outcomes such as headaches and digestive disorders.
Conclusions: The results of this study fit within an original pandemic context: The results of this study can help identify needs and promote solutions applicable to different contexts. Future interventions should focus on the promotion and implementation of healthy habits focused on sleep hygiene, psychoeducation on the use of mobile devices and gender medicine with the support of healthcare organizations and University.
Navigating the Crossroads: Sexual Attitudes, HIV Awareness, and the Need for Targeted Education Among College Students in Southeast Coast China.
Authors: Liu Yupeng , Zhu Xuan , Ye Zhenmiao , Ni Xiaoyan , Chen Yuxin , Yu Xinru , Li Dapeng , Wang Shuran
Published: October 2023

Background: College students, as a sexually active group, are particularly vulnerable to the risks of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) acquisition and transmission. Findings and limitations of previous studies on factors affecting HIV/AIDS-related awareness and sexual attitudes support conducting further research in this study. This study aims to describe and evaluate the extent to which college students with different sexual attitudes understand HIV/AIDS in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, and related factors for HIV/AIDS prevention.
Methods: From November to December 2020, an anonymous questionnaire was conducted among 6,000 college students in Wenzhou, China to assess their sexual attitudes and knowledge towards HIV/AIDS. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and logistic regression were used to analyze the factors affecting HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and sexual attitudes. We also performed a subgroup analysis on sexual attitudes.
Results: A total of 5,627 valid questionnaires were included in our analysis, with an effective rate of 93.8%. The participants’ rate of HIV/AIDS-related awareness was 80.2%. Regarding sexual attitudes, 4,098 (72.8%) students held conservative views, while the rest (27.2%) held more open views. Among conservative students, seniors (AOR=1.12, 95%CI 1.01-1.23) and those with better health education (AOR=1.50, 95%CI 1.28-1.76) had higher HIV/AIDS knowledge. Conversely, rural students had lower HIV/AIDS knowledge (AOR=0.79, 95%CI 0.67-0.94). Additionally, in the open groups, students with better health education (AOR=1.21, 95%CI 1.11, 1.31) demonstrated higher levels of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, whereas rural students (AOR=0.67, 95%CI 0.51, 0.89) showed lower HIV/AIDS knowledge.
Conclusion: A significant portion of college students still possessed a permissive and hazardous sexual mindset and demonstrated a lack of HIV/AIDS-related knowledge. It’s crucial to hunt for ways to level students’ awareness of HIV/AIDS and provide them with more comprehensive sex education.
Does Predictive Prompting Improve Future Specialists’ Self evaluation of Communication Skills During End of Life Conversations?
Authors: de Meijer FO , Nyamu N. , Bruin A.
Published: October 2023

In healthcare, effective communication in complex situations such as end of life conversations is critical for delivering high quality care. Whether future specialists learn from communication training with actors depends on whether they are able to select appropriate information or ‘predictive cues’ from that learning situation that accurately reflect their performance and whether they use those cues for ensuing self-judgement. This study aimed to explore whether cue prompts can help residents focusing on predictive cues and improving monitoring accuracy of their communication skills. First and third year Kenyan residents (N = 41) from 8 different specialties were randomly assigned to one of two experimental groups (predictive cue prompt versus control group receiving regular prompts) during a mock OSCE assessing communication skills. The use of predictive cues and the appropriateness of judgements of satisfaction were evaluated against a pre-rated video and compared before and after the intervention and across groups. The intervention improved the use of predictive cues from pre to post test. Ensuing monitoring accuracy only partly improved: no effect from the intervention was found on overall appropriateness of judgements. However, when analyzing participants’ completeness of judgements over the various themes within the consultation, a reduction in inappropriate judgments scores was seen in the intervention group. In conclusion, predictive cue prompts can help learners to concentrate on relevant cues when evaluating their communication skills and partly improve learners’ monitoring accuracy. Future research should focus on offering prompts more frequently to evaluate whether this increases the effect on monitoring accuracy in communication skills.
Assessment of vitamin K2 status in children with chronic kidney diseases
Authors: Sawires Happy , Abdallah Shrouk , Ramadan Mohamed , Abdel-Halim Radwa , Ramadan Yasmin
Published: October 2023

Background : Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in the formation of osteocalcin in bones, matrix GLa protein in cartilage, and the walls of blood vessels. we aimed to investigate vitamin K2 status in children with CKD G5D, without KRT and after renal transplantation, and its relation to bone turnover by measuring bone turnover marker (bone alkaline phosphatase- BAP). Methods: We enrolled 75 patients classified into 3 groups: group A; CKD without KRT, group B; CKD G5D and group C; renal transplant recipients. Another 25 healthy individuals were involved as a control group. Under carboxylated osteocalcin (uOC) (as a sensitive indicator of vitamin K level) and BAP were measured in fasting blood samples in all patients. 24-hour dietary recall was used to assess vitamin k, calcium, and phosphorus intake. Vitamin and mineral intake was calculated as a percent of target requirements of age and sex-matched healthy children. Results: uOC was found significantly higher in the patient groups in comparison to the control group (p <0.001). The highest level of uOC was detected in the HD group. In all groups except the HD group, robust negative correlations were observed between uOC and both eGFR and vitamin K (%) levels. There was a statistically significant difference in uOC (p < 0.001) between those with history of bone fractures (No.= 7) compared to those without fractures (No.= 93). By logistic regression analysis, increasing uOC was associated with an increased likelihood of exhibiting bone fractures (p = 0.012). Conclusion: elevated uOC levels were observed in children with CKD and demonstrated a correlation with eGFR. Additionally, they exhibited a notable association with heightened bone turnover status, as indicated by BAP levels.
Guidelines for Decolonising Health Sciences Curricula: A Roadmap to Transformation
Authors: Koch Rhea , Pool Jessica , Heymans Yolande
Published: October 2023

South Africa’s complex history with colonialism has left its imprint on the Higher Education Institutions. Decolonisation can address historical injustices and create a more inclusive educational environment. Despite the awareness of its significance, many Higher Education institutions struggle with decolonisation due to varied approaches and resistance. Existing literature highlights a gap in understanding health professions educators' perceptions of decolonisation in health professions education, demanding further research into practical implications. Understanding health professions educators' perspectives is vital, as it influences curriculum design. The aim of this study is to explore how health professions educators at North-West University perceive decolonisation and to use these insights to develop guidelines to inform the decolonising health professions education curricula. To achieve this aim, the study adopted a workshop methodology. Nominal Group Technique was employed within this methodology to encourage meaningful contribution. The study used deductive coding to guide the analysis of collected data. Findings indicate a shift in health professions educators' perceptions of decolonisation when informed discourse and structured guidance are available. Educators require a well-structured plan of action, emphasising the need for practical guidelines to inform decolonisation efforts. The derived guidelines align with the mission of producing healthcare professionals capable of addressing South Africa's diverse healthcare landscape. They facilitate cultural competency and social consciousness among health professions educators, fostering a responsive curriculum transformation and a more inclusive Higher Education environment. This research contributes to the vital discourse on decolonisation by grounding theory in practice, offering practical guidelines as a roadmap to transformation.
Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Utilization of Essential Health Services in Iran Evidence from an Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Ranjbar Mohammad , Mousavi Seyed Masood , Madadizadeh Farzan , Dargani Nahid Hosseini , Iraji Samaneh , Angell Blake , Assefa Yibeltal
Published: October 2023

Background
The COVID-19 disrupted the provision of essential health services in numerous countries, potentially leading to outbreaks of deadly diseases. This study aims to investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the utilization of essential health services in Iran.
Methods
Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using interrupted time series (ITS) analysis. Data about five indicators, including 'childhood vaccination, infant care, hypertension screening, diabetes screening, and breast cancer screening,' were obtained from the Comprehensive Health Information System in two-time intervals: 15 months before (November 2018 to January 2020) and 15 months after (January 2020 to May 2021) the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were analyzed by utilizing ITS. In addition, a Poisson model was employed due to the usage of count data. The Durbin-Watson (DW) test was used to identify the presence of lag-1 autocorrelation in the time series data. All statistical analysis was performed using R 4.3.1 software, considering a 5% significance level.
Results
The results the ITS analysis showed that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the utilization of all essential health services (P < 0.0001). The utilization of hypertension screening (RR = 0.51, p < 0.001), diabetes screening (RR = 0.884, p < 0.001), breast cancer screening (RR = 0.435, p < 0.001), childhood vaccination (IRR = 0.947, p < 0.001), and infant care (RR = 1.666, p < 0.001), exhibited a significant decrease in the short term following the pandemic (P < 0.0001). However, the long-term trend for all service utilization, except breast cancer screening (IRR = 0.952, p < 0.001), demonstrated a significant increase.
Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic affected utilization of essential health care in Iran. It is imperative to utilize tis evidence to develop policies that will be translated into targeted planning and implementation to sustain provision and utilization of essential health services during public health emergencies. It is also vital to raise awareness and public knowledge regarding the consequences of interruptions in essential health services. In addition, it is important to identify the supply- and demand-side factors contributing to these disruptions.
Construction and Evaluation of Pepper Core Collection Based on Phenotypic Traits and SSR Markers
Authors: Qin Deng , Shuniu Zhao , Congcong Guan , Genying Fu , Shuang Yu , Shisen Lin , Zhiwei Wang , Huizhen Fu , Xu Lu , Shanhan Cheng
Published: October 2023

155 pepper germplasm from different region are used to conduct diversity analysis on 24 phenotypic traits, aiming to reduce the resource conservation workload, improve resource utilization and breeding efficiency. The best core collection was selected from three levels: the proportion of samples within the group, the overall sample size, and the gradual clustering of samples within the group. Representative evaluation of the phenotypic trait data of the core collection was conducted using indicators such as mean, variance, range, and coefficient of variation, and the core collection was confirmed by principal component analysis. At the same time, the Shannon Weaver diversity index and phenotype Shannon index were used to evaluate the representativeness of SSR molecular marker data of germplasm. The results showed that the pepper core collection constructed based on phenotype data contained 41 materials, which were found to perfectly preserved the genetic diversity of the original pepper germplasm using basic genetic parameters and principal component analysis. 54 polymorphic loci were obtained from 155 germplasm using SSR molecular markers, and core collection containing 32 materials was screened. Integrate phenotype and molecular core collection, the core collection composed of 57 varieties with the 92.55% phenotype retention ratio and 100% polymorphism site retention ratio were determined, and had the most genetic diversity according to a 90% compression ratio, which can fully represent the genetic diversity of the original germplasm.
This study, which looks at the effects of transversus abdominis muscle release with bridge supported by a retro-muscular mesh in the posterior component separation used to treat abdominal wall dehiscence, addresses a research gap by retrospective examining multiple hospitals
Authors: Saad Hassan A. , Baz Azza , Riad Mohamed , Eraky Mohamed E , El-taher Ahmed K , Farid Mohamed I , Sharaf Khaled
Published: October 2023

Setting
This investigation looked at the consequences of neuromuscular mesh reinforcing following posterior component separation (CS) and transversus abdominis muscle release (TAR) in patients with primary abdominal wall dehiscence (AWD). The frequency of incisional hernias (IH) at the area of operation following AWD restoration with posterior CS and TAR strengthened by neuromuscular mesh, as well as the potential variables for IH, served as the other goals.
Methods
The time frame for this prospective, multicenter cohort study was April 2015–January 2020. A total of 404 individuals administered posterior CS with TAR release supported by a neuromuscular mesh had median laparotomies and were identified with category IA primary AWD (Björck's first categorization).
Results
The mean age of the group was 42 ± 10 years, with women making up 59.9% of the total. From the midline laparotomy index surgery to the primary AWD, the average time was 7 ± 3 days. The vertical length had an average of 16 ± 2 cm. The average time interval between the onset of AWD and the posterior CS + TAR procedure was 3.1 ± 1 days. The average duration of operation for posterior CS with TAR was 95 ± 12 min. The AWD did not reappear. The percentages of cases with seroma, hemorrhage-contaminated mesh, infection from the surgical site (SSI), and IH were 7.9%, 12.4%, 2%, 8.9%, and 3%, respectively. 2.5% of mortality was recorded in total. Old age, sex, cigarettes, albumin value < 3.5 gm%, SSI, ileus, contaminated mesh, and the time between AWD and posterior CS + TAR with bridge surgery were significantly more common in IH patients. IH rates were 0.5% and 8.9% at 2 and 3 years, respectively. Ileus, SSI, contaminated mesh, and the interval between AWD and posterior CS + TAR operations were identified as variables that indicated IH in multivariate logistic regression analysis.
Conclusions
When posterior CS with TAR and retro-muscular mesh implants were combined, the low mortality rate was 2.5%. Additionally, minimal relapse rates of AWD and IH were noted.
Pancreatic stone protein as a biomarkers for sepsis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zheng Rui , Guo Tongwu , Yang Yuanzheng , Yi Huanying
Published: October 2023

Backgroud
The attack rate of the sepsis and its mortality is increasing rapidly in the world, with early diagnosis and prognosis being essential. Pancreatic stone protein (PSP) is regarded as an excellent indicator of detecting infection, which demonstrated a good diagnostic and prognostic value in sepsis. We utilized the meta-analysis method to further demonstrate the early diagnosis value and prognostic effectiveness of PSP in sepsis.
Methods
Relevant literature was systematically searched in PubMed, Ovid, Embase and ScienceDirect databases using medical subject headings and relevant diagnostic terms. All included literature was analysed using Stata 14.0 to calculate outcomes of pooled extracted data such as sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, area under the curve, diagnostic odds ratio and diagnostic score. Publication bias in the included studies was assessed using Deek's funnel plot. Cochrane Q statistic and I2 statistic were used to test for heterogeneity.
Results
A total of 12 studies were included in this analysis and the literature was divided into three groups based on the type of study: the ability of PSP to diagnose early adult/non-adult sepsis and the ability of PSP to predict mortality outcomes in paediatric sepsis. The combined results of sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratios, negative likelihood ratios, area under the curve, diagnostic odds ratios and diagnostic scores indicated that PSP has good clinical value. No publication bias was found in any of the three meta-analyses.
Conclusions
Diagnosis and prognosis of sepsis by PSP has good accuracy and predictive value that warrants clinical promotion.
Human milk affects TLR4 activation and LPS-induced cytokine expression in Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Pizzarello Catherine , Nelson Ashley , Verekhman Ilya , Seppo Antti , Jӓrvinen Kirsi
Published: October 2023

Background: Human milk (HM) components affect immune cell toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. However, studies examining the immunomodulatory impacts of HM on TLR4 signaling in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) are limited.
Methods: This study utilized both a TLR4 reporter cell line and a Caco-2 IEC model to examine the effects of HM on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced TLR4 activation and cytokine responses, respectively. Additionally, we performed fast protein liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify a HM component that contributes to the effect of HM on TLR4 signaling.
Results: HM enhances LPS-induced TLR4 signaling as well as IEC gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and negative regulators of NF-κB. Human serum albumin (HSA) present in HM contributes to this effect.
Conclusion: HSA within HM synergizes with LPS to induce TLR4 signaling as well as IEC gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and negative regulators of NF-κB. Altogether, this study provides mechanistic evidence behind the immunomodulatory function of HM on IECs, which may contribute to an enhanced immune response in breast-fed neonates.
The efficiency of biofertilizer and bio-control on root-knot nematode, using bacterial strains, and its effect on tomato plant protein patterns, and improving yield under field conditions
Authors: El-Sawy Sameh , El-Nagdi Wafaa , Mohamed Shereen , Khalil Bigad , Soliman Gaziea
Published: October 2023

Agriculture faces growing population pressure for food security and sustainability. Controlling root-knot nematodes and reducing fertilizer use is crucial for environmental resources preservation. In Egypt, tomato production faces pollution and human health risks by using chemical nematicides to control this nematode. So, PGPRs can improve crop productivity by controlling parasitic nematodes and biofertilization. This experiment was established to study the role of bacterial strains for controlling root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and saving nitrogen fertilizer in a greenhouse naturally infested nematodes and cultivated by tomato plants. Tomato plants were exposed to foliar spraying and soil drenching of different bacterial strains (fusant F7, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), Bacillus cereus (Bc) and Achromobacter xylosoxidans (Ax) compared to chemical nematicide (Oxamyl) for controlling root-knot nematode, M. incognita and saving nitrogen fertilizer (Nitrogen treatments: 30 and 60 N for greenhouse). The modified fusant F7 and its parental strains on M. incognita's nematode reproduction using spraying foliage and soil drench methods. Results showed that all treatments effectively reduced root-knot nematode reproduction, with fusant F7 being more effective in reducing soil parameters like J2, galls, and egg masses. Soil drench achieved the best reduction compared to spraying foliage. Amplification of the protease gene which is reasonable for nematode control from strains Bc and Bt, as well as fusant F7, produced 1100 base pair fragments, confirming gene presence. Results clearly reported that biofertilizer treatments significantly improved all vegetative growth (plant length, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, fresh weights of leaves per plant and dry weights of leaves per plant), flowering and fruit yield (number of clusters per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit yield) and tomato fruit quality characteristics (average fruit weight, fruit diameter and TSS%) grown under deficit nitrogen treatment. Tomato plants which received the minimum quantity of nitrogen fertilizers (30 N/greenhouse) and treated by fusant F7 as a soil drench produced the highest significant values of vegetative growth, flowering and fruit yield and fruit quality of tomatoes characteristics. SDS-PAGE protein banding patterns to 11 leaves tomato plant treatments varieties for leaf water soluble proteins. The proteins extracted migrated in the 24–191kDa range. In comparison to lesser number 7 bands in the control, the plant exposed to F7 in soil drench spraying showed a highest number of bands (17 bands).
The Effect of Different Traditional Chinese Exercises on Bone Mineral Density in Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hou Jun , Cui Yuemei , Mao Haiping , Rong Ming
Published: October 2023

Objective:
To evaluate the optimal choice of traditional Chinese exercises (TCEs) for improving bone mineral density in postmenopausal women through a network meta-analysis.
Methods:
Chinese and English databases were searched, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP, PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. The outcomes included BMD of lumbar L2-L4, femoral neck, Ward’s triangle, and greater trochanter. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to assess the correlation between each group of interventions, and surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) was used to rank the best interventions.
Results:
A total of 20 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 1933 subjects and six interventions:( Tai Chi (TC), Baduanjin (BDJ), Wuqinxi (WQX), Yijinjing (YJJ), Tai Chi plus calcium supplementation (TA), and Baduanjin plus calcium supplementation (BA)) were analyzed. Regarding the BMD of the lumbar L2-L4: TC [SMD= 0.99 (0.62,1.37)], BDJ [SMD= 2.12 (1.39,2.85)], TA [SMD= (1.12(0.17,2.07)] and BA [SMD= 2.24 (1.16,3.31)] were superior in increasing BMD of lumbar L2-L4 relative to No exercise intervention (NEI). Regarding the BMD of the femoral neck: TC [SMD= 1.24 (0.70,1.78)] and BA [SMD= 3.77 (1.98,5.56)] were superior in increasing BMD of femoral neck relative to NEI. Regarding the BMD of the ward’s triangle: TC [SMD= 1.63 (1.09,2.17)] was superior in increasing the BMD of the ward’s triangle relative to NEI. Regarding the BMD of the greater trochanter: TC [SMD= 0.98 (0.28,1.68)] was superior in increasing the BMD of the greater trochanter relative to NEI. TC topped the SUCRA with BMD of lumbar L2-L4: 53.8, femoral neck: 74.9, Ward’s triangle:86.9 and greater trochanter: 77.7.
Conclusion:
Four TCEs (TC, BDJ, TA and BA) are all effective in partially improving BMD indicators in postmenopausal women, while TC was effective on all four BMD indicators, which seems to be recommended as the most suitable exercise modality for postmenopausal women.
Klotho plays a role in reno protective effect of allopurinol on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Karimi Zeinab , Ghahramani Pooran , Masjedi Fatemeh , Yavari Vahideh
Published: October 2023

Allopurinol, a xanthine oxidase inhibitor, recovers histological alterations and renal dysfunction induced during renal ischemic-reperfusion injury. This study investigated the cross-talk between the allopurinol and soluble klotho. Method and material: Rats were randomly divided into three equal groups (n = 8 per group): The sham-operated group without renal ischemia, the BIR (bilateral ischemia-reperfusion) group which underwent renal ischemia, and the BIR + Allo (allopurinol) group which was pretreated with allopurinol (100 mg/kg- gavage) 30 min before BIR. After recovery from the anesthesia, all animals were placed in metabolic cages to collect their urine in 24h. After 24 h, plasma was extracted from a blood sample, which was taken from the tail vein. Plasma and urine samples were saved at -20oC. Kidneys were harvested and weighed. The left kidney was dropped in the buffer of 10% formalin for H&E staining, and the right kidney was located in liquid nitrogen and saved at 80oC for the oxidative stress analysis. Results: After renal ischemia–reperfusion, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, xanthine oxidase, and total oxidative stress levels significantly increased. However, plasma klotho level and total antioxidative capacity decreased in the BIR group. There was a reverse correlation between klotho and xanthine oxidase levels. The pretreatment with allopurinol increased plasma Klotho and induced a protective effect on renal histopathological changes and corrected functional biomarkers. Conclusion: Our result showed that allopurinol enhanced its antioxidative effect by increasing klotho activity. Therefore, Klotho may be involved in the protective effects of allopurinol on the renal injury induced by BIR.
Current status of digital health interventions in the health system in Burkina Faso
Authors: SYLLA Bry , OUEDRAOGO Boukary , TRAORE Salif , OUEDRAOGO Ousseni , SAVADOGO Léon Gueswendé Blaise , DIALLO Gayo
Published: October 2023

Background
Digital health is being used as an accelerator to improve the traditional healthcare system. It can help countries achieve their sustainable development goals. Burkina Faso aims to harmonize its digital health interventions to guide its digital health strategy for the coming years. The current assessment is an upstream work to guide the development of this strategic plan.
Methods
This was a quantitative, descriptive study conducted between September 2022 and April 2023. A two-part survey was carried out, a self-administered questionnaire with healthcare information managers in facilities, and a direct interview with software developers. This was complemented by a qualitative review of the country's strategic documents on digital transformation.
Results
Burkina Faso has a fairly extensive body of governance texts relating to digital transformation. The study identified a total of 35 digital health interventions. Analysis showed that 89% of funding came from technical and financial partners and the private sector. The use of open-source technologies for development is well established (77%), but there is a lack of integration of data from different platforms. Furthermore, the classification of interventions shows an unbalanced distribution between the different elements according to the domain: the health system, the classification of digital health interventions (DHI) and the subsystems of the National Health Information System (NHIS). Most digital health interventions are in the pilot phase (66%), with isolated electronic patient record initiatives not yet completed. In the public sector, this record is of the electronic register type or an isolated specialty record in a hospital. In the private sector, some tools are implemented depending on the needs expressed by the structure. The difficulty remains in the use of interoperability norms and standards in tool design. Very little use is made of the data generated by the implemented tools.
Conclusion
This study provides an overview of the digital health environment in Burkina Faso and raises major challenges in terms of intervention strategies. The results will be the starting point for drawing up the digital health strategic plan; if the shortcomings are taken into account, it will provide a framework for future digital health initiatives.
Myeloid cell-expressed MNDA enhances M2 polarization to facilitate the metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Meng Yanru , Zhang Mengxin , Li Xinli , Dong Qian , Zhang Hu , Zhai Yuanjun , Wang Xinxin , He Fuchu , Tian Chunyan , Sun Aihua
Published: October 2023

Background
The molecular subtypes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with the worst prognosis are characterized by immune disorders dominated by myeloid cell infiltration, but how to accurately screen these patients for accurate diagnosis and treatment is not clear. In this study, based on HCC proteomic data from two independent centers, we found that Myeloid cell nuclear differentiation antigen (MNDA) could be used as a marker of myeloid lymphocyte especially M2 myeloid cell infiltration, and further analyzed the mechanism and potential clinical value of MNDA in promoting poor prognosis of HCC.
Methods
We investigated the proteomic molecular subtype of HCC and discovered a significant elevation of the myeloid cell nuclear differentiation antigen (MNDA) in the most aggressive subtype. The association between MNDA and the prognosis of HCC was examined using multi-omics data. Gene expression analysis, multiple immunofluorescence and western blot were used for detecting the localization of MNDA in HCC. Cellular co-culture experiments were conducted for exploring the functions of MNDA in vitro while intravenous injections were used in in vivo study. To elucidate its oncogenic mechanisms, we used RNA-seq combined with mass spectrometry analysis and cellular experiments to identify the related signaling pathway.
Results
MNDA demonstrated significantly elevated expression in the most aggressive subtype of HCC and exhibited a positively correlation with M2 infiltration and HCC metastasis. Moreover, MNDA also functioned as an independent prognostic predictor and has a good synergistic effect with existing prognostic clinical indicators (such as AFP, tumor size, MVI, etc.). We also found that MNDA was primarily expressed in tumor M2 macrophages and contributed to the enhancement of M2 macrophage polarization by upregulating the expression of the enhancers of M2 polarization. Furthermore, MNDA knockdown inhibited the secretion of M2 macrophage-derived pro-metastasis proteins via the exosome pathway to suppress HCC metastasis both in vivo and in vitro.
Conclusions
MNDA exerts a protumor role by promoting M2 macrophages polarization and HCC metastasis, and can serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
Comparative Efficacy Evaluation of 10% Sodium Iodide and Potassium Iodide Therapies of Horses With Eipizootic Lymphangitis at Spana Equine Clinic, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
Authors: Mideksa Kumisa , Negasa Tolesa , Asefa Zerihun , Zewdu Hanna , Tesfaye Reta , Merridale-Punter Matilde , Sturgeon Ben
Published: October 2023

Purpose
To identify the comparative effectiveness of different drug combinations and routes of drug administration for epizootic lymphangitis in horses in Bishoftu town, Ethiopia.
Methods
Experimental study was conducted on forty horses with Epizootic lymphangitis. After identification of cases and oral consent from horse’s owner the study were conducted. Selected horses were examined and attributed an EZL in six grading level depending on the severity of the disease. The study was conducted in five different experimental groups in which equal numbers of eight experimental units were assigned.
Results
The presence of EZL was confirmed in a total of forty horses by Giemsa stain. Animals were then included in the trial to assess the comparative effectiveness of different treatment protocols. The analysis of variables of all experimental groups and all variables of the study group (number of nodules, number of discharging nodules, recovered nodules and grade) shows statistical significant (P < 0.05) differences. All experimental units were examined six times with 48 frequencies. Grade was mostly preferred to determine the level of effectiveness of the drug. The statistically significant differences in therapeutic value were observed by pairwise comparison of all groups. The oral KI in combination with topical 4% iodine tincture versus 10% NaI IVRP in combination with topical 4% iodine tincture, 10% NaI through jugular vein in combination with topical 4% iodine tincture and debridement and topical 4% iodine tincture with their respective P values were 0.004, 0.025 and 0.018.
Conclusion
The combination of 10% NaI through jugular vein in combination with topical application of 4% iodine tincture was comparably better effective treatment than other remedies. Most of the horse owners also responded that intravenous injection of the drugs in combination with 4% iodine tincture topically had better therapeutic value than other remedies.
Machine Learning Approaches for Identification of Potential Biomarkers from Cancer Omics Data
Authors: Shaikh Nilofer , Bapat Sanket , Karthikeyan Muthukumarasamy , Vyas Renu
Published: October 2023

Machine learning (ML) techniques have widely been used to analyze and interpret multi-omics data. It allows researchers to uncover complex relationships and patterns within molecular features. In the present comprehensive work, we performed text mining of biomedical literature data against selected ten cancer types (breast, colon, cervical, CNS, leukemia, lung, melanoma, ovarian, prostate and renal) using the BioNLP python package. We also constructed a gene-drug interaction network to find the potential biomarkers. The major 30 hub genes were identified to drive more effective and targeted cancer therapies and relevant oncogenic pathways. Using the text mining and network-based approach we were able to identify 49 genes. These were unique and significant against cancer types and are not updated in the cancer omics databases such as TCGA and cBioPortal. Further, we employed machine learning t-SNE clustering for the identification of putative biomarkers based on cancer omics profile and to understand the complex molecular landscapes within the ten types of cancer. To gain insight into the survival outcomes of cancer patients, a Kaplan-Meier plot of the Cox coefficient was performed to get the survival correlation against TCGA data. Multi-omics data analysis has shown a significant potential to transform cancer research and clinical practice by providing a holistic view. Also, it enables to design of precision cancer medicine and drives advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
How Austrian primary care physicians formed their concept of care quality during the first ten months of the COVID-19 pandemic. A repeated cross-sectional survey research
Authors: Braun Alexander , Behrens Doris A. , Krczal Eva
Published: October 2023

Background. In March 2020, Austria was among the first European countries to declare a national lockdown, responding to SARS-CoV-2 infections with a stringent ringfencing policy for inpatient beds. These interventions altered access to the Austrian healthcare system. This study aims to understand demand- and supply-side factors influencing Austrian Primary Care Physicians’ (PCPs’) assessment of their care quality during the first ten months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. The study deployed a cross-section design based on stratified random sampling, where all Austrian PCPs (split into three disjointed random samples) were invited to participate in an online questionnaire (in May, September and November 2020, respectively). A multinomial logit model analyses the three sets of cross-sectional survey data. The study subjects are all 6,679 Austrian PCP (2020) with a registered practice. The total sample size was 403 (corresponding to a net response rate of 6.3%). Results. The primary outcome was the PCPs’ evaluation of their care quality. Secondary outcomes were “patient behaviour and wellbeing” (five questions), with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.74, and the PCPs’ “pandemic preparedness” (five questions) with a smaller internal consistency (0.69). 47% of the PCPs rated their care quality during the first ten months of the pandemic as worse than before the outbreak of COVID-19. The overall assessment correlates to the pandemic stage, lack of preventive care and mediocre information exchange/cooperation within the medical profession. Towards the end of the first lockdown, PCPs’ care quality perception was exclusively shaped by the availability of SARS-CoV-2 tests at the practice. Conclusions. With improved resource supply towards the end of 2020, demand-side factors like the uptake of medical check-ups and screenings increasingly defined PCPs’ quality perception. Also, respondents described waiting times for elective specialist care as significantly increasing during lockdown periods. However, they did not include them when perceiving their care quality.
System Dynamics Simulation Modelling for the Controlling of Vehicular Emissions in Indian City, Lucknow
Authors: GORJI H V SAI SIMHA
Published: October 2023

An urban low-emission transportation system is dynamic and complex, encompassing various socio-economic factors, vehicular characteristics, infrastructure, and other variables. Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen metropolitan transport demand and improve the urban transport structure with a clear focus on lower emissions. This study is centered on conducting comprehensive research on System Dynamics concepts. The paper analyzes the intricate dynamics of these relationships by developing a low-emission metropolitan transportation system. Lucknow city, the capital of Uttar Pradesh in India, is chosen as a case study to model a low-emission urban area. The average air quality in Lucknow is satisfactory, although air pollutants such as Carbon (CO), NOx (NO2), and PM (PM2.5 and PM10) cause minor breathing discomfort for some residents. Private transportation, including two-wheelers (2W) and cars, constitutes almost 95% of the total trips, while public transportation, comprising three-wheelers (3W) and buses, accounts for approximately 1% of the trips. The annual fuel consumption in the city for private transportation represents nearly 87% of the total vehicular fuel consumption. The primary objective of this research is to develop a System Dynamics (SD) model using STELLA to predict fuel consumption and vehicular emissions from the transport sector by the horizon year 2028. A scenario planning approach that involves increasing public transportation while simultaneously controlling the growth of private transportation results in a nearly 42% reduction in energy consumption and almost a 21% reduction in emission levels for private transportation. This approach also leads to a 17% reduction in the growth rate of fuel costs and a 51% reduction in the growth rate of carbon emissions caused by vehicular traffic in the city.
To compare the effect of limbal dissection combined with ICL implantation and toric ICL implantation on astigmatism correction in patients with high myopia
Authors: Wang Yu-Han , Yang Ke , Liu Su-Meng , Wei Yi-Fan , Ying Fang-Wei , Yang Hao-Jiang , Qiao Li-Ya
Published: October 2023

Background To compare the safety, efficacy, predictability and stability of implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation with limbal relaxing incision (LRI) and toric ICL (TICL) implantation for correcting corneal astigmatism in high myopic patients. Methods This prospective clinical study recruited high myopic patients with a preoperative cylinder ranging from − 1.5 D to -1.0 D. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: 35 eyes of 25 patients underwent independent TICL implantation (TICL group), and 35 eyes of 20 patients underwent ICL implantation combined with LRI (LRI group). Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were observed before and at the end of the 1st and 3rd months postoperatively. The outcomes considered were refraction and corneal topography preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. The variation in astigmatism was analyzed using vector analysis, which included surgically induced astigmatism (SIA), target-induced astigmatism (TIA), and the correction index (CI). Safety, efficacy, predictability and stability were also analyzed. Results LogMAR UDVA and logMAR CDVA were significantly improved 1 and 3 months postoperatively in both groups (P < 0.001). LogMAR CDVA in the LRI group was significantly higher than that in the TICL group at 1 month postoperatively (P = 0.001); logMAR UDVA was significantly higher than that in the TICL group at 3 months postoperatively (P = 0.025). AST in the LRI group was significantly reduced postoperatively (P = 0.001); there was no significant difference in the TICL group (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant change in SIA or TIA between the two groups (P > 0.05) 3 months postoperatively. The CI of the two groups indicated mild overcorrection, without a statistically significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05). No complications occurred during the 3-month follow-up. The short-term safety of the LRI group was significantly higher than that of the TICL group (1.18 ± 0.23 vs. 1.01 ± 0.39, P = 0.029). Conclusions LRI combined with ICL implantation is effective for correcting low to moderate astigmatism in the short term. The safety, correction effect of astigmatism and visual acuity are better than that of TICL implantation. LRI is feasible as an astigmatism correction method for patients with high myopia and corneal astigmatism. Trial registration None.
Perampanel Mitigates Neuroinflammation and Nitrosative Stress in a Rat Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ding Changgeng , Yang Hongqiao , Sheng Zhengwei , Cheng Gefei , Wang Yuhai
Published: October 2023

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common cause of disability and mortality across all age groups. Inflammation is a crucial contributor to secondary injury following brain trauma. With advancements in surgical techniques and procedures, we aimed to identify a rational, safe, and efficacious pharmacological intervention that can ameliorate post-TBI symptoms, minimise associated complications, and enhance patient prognosis and quality of life. Perampanel is an oral, potent, noncompetitive α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate (AMPA) receptor antagonist. By antagonising AMPA receptors, a reduction in nitrate production can be achieved, thereby influencing crucial signalling factors involved in the pathway that induces inflammation. In this study, we investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of perampanel on rat neurones following TBI, using a rat model of cortical impact. The oral administration of perampanel effectively mitigated TBI-induced cellular oedema, reduced neuronal cell death, and attenuated tissue nitric oxide (NO) production in rats. Oral administration of perampanel results in a reduction in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) levels accompanied by a concurrent decrease in downstream cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Furthermore, at 6, 12, and 24 h post-injury, a decline in inflammatory factors and an increase in anti-inflammatory factors were observed. The same trend was further strengthened by the addition of an nNOS inhibitor to perampanel. Therefore, we conclude that perampanel is effective in preserving neurological function following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats by attenuating nitrate production, reducing inflammation, mitigating neuronal cell death, and acting through the nNOS-cGMP pathway.
Domestic Feline Retroviruses in Environmental Protection Area - Jericoacoara National Park, Ceará, Brazil
Authors: Rodriguês Ana Kétylla Ponte Prado , Taniwaki² Sueli Akemi , Costa³ Viviane Dias , Fonseca Arícia Débora Vasconcelos , Cavalcante¹ Ramuelly Olinda , Jorge² Felipe Rodrigues , Braz¹ Gissandra Farias , Cavalcante¹ Francisco Roger Aguiar , Silva Isaac Neto Goes , Pinheiro Raymundo Rizaldo , Monteiro Jomar Patrício , Brandão Paulo Eduardo , Hosie Margaret J , Teixeira¹ Bruno Marques
Published: October 2023

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) are retroviruses with a worldwide distribution and great impact on the health of domestic cats. The Jericoacoara National Park is a region of environmental protection, in the State of Ceará, and contains the Jericoacoara Village, which is an important tourist destination in Brazil. The aims of this study were to verify the prevalence of FIV and FeLV in domestic cats from Jericoacoara Village, as well as the risk factors, clinical signals and hematological changes associated with infection with these feline retroviruses. Samples from 113 cats were collected and tested using anti-FIV antibody and FeLV p27 screening; sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the gag gene were performed to confirm the FIV subtype. Fourteen cats (12.4%) tested positive for FIV and twelve (10.6%) tested positive for FeLV. The analysis of risk factors for FIV showed that age was a statistically significant risk factor (p=0.001). Dehydration (p=0.008) and hyperproteinemia (p=0.041) were statistically associated with FIV infection. The analysis of risk factors for FeLV showed that cats from high density environments are more likely to become infected than cats from houses with few animals, stray cats, and community cats (p=0.001). No statistical association was found between the clinical and hematological alterations with FeLV infection. The phylogenetic analysis of sequences from nine FIV-positive animals revealed that samples belonged to FIV subtype B. The data found in the study suggest the need to intensify the control of these feline retroviruses in this environmental protection area.