bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A machine learning-based predictive model for predicting early neurological deterioration in lenticulostriate atheromatous disease-related infarction
Authors: Jiang Zhuangzhuang , Xu Dongjuan , Li Hongfei , Wu Xiaolan , Fang Yuan , Lou Chen
Published: December 2024

Background and aim

This study aimed to develop a predictive model for early neurological deterioration (END) in branch atheromatous disease (BAD) affecting the lenticulostriate artery (LSA) territory using machine learning. Additionally, it aimed to explore the underlying mechanisms of END occurrence in this context.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of consecutive ischemic stroke patients with BAD in the LSA territory admitted to Dongyang People’s Hospital from January 1, 2018, to September 30, 2023. Significant predictors were identified using LASSO regression, and nine machine learning algorithms were employed to construct models. The logistic regression model demonstrated superior performance and was selected for further analysis.

Results

A total of 380 patients were included, with 268 in the training set and 112 in the validation set. Logistic regression identified stroke history, systolic pressure, conglomerated beads sign, middle cerebral artery (MCA) shape, and parent artery stenosis as significant predictors of END. The developed nomogram exhibited good discriminative ability and calibration. Additionally, the decision curve analysis indicated the practical clinical utility of the nomogram.

Conclusion

The novel nomogram incorporating systolic pressure, stroke history, conglomerated beads sign, parent artery stenosis, and MCA shape provides a practical tool for assessing the risk of early neurological deterioration in BAD affecting the LSA territory. This model enhances clinical decision-making and personalized treatment strategies.
Involvement of the parabrachial nucleus in emergence from general anesthesia
Authors: Li Jia , Zhu Qiuyu , Xiang Jiaxin , Wei Yiyong , Zhang Donghang
Published: December 2024

The parabrachial nucleus (PBN), located in the dorsolateral pons, is involved in many important biological functions, such as sensory signaling, feeding, defensive behaviors, fear, anxiety, and sleep–wake cycles. General anesthesia shares the classical feature of reversible loss of consciousness with natural sleep, and accumulating evidence has indicated that general anesthesia and sleep–wake behaviors share some common underlying neural mechanism. In recent years, emerging studies have investigated the involvement of PBN in emergence from general anesthesia, but divergence exists in terms of different types of general anesthetics or different durations of treatment with the same group of general anesthetics. Here, we reviewed the current literature and summarized the evidence about the contribution of PBN to general anesthesia.
Navigating the obesity paradox in bladder cancer prognosis—insights from the Taiwan National Health Insurance System Database
Authors: Tseng Wen-Hsin , Chiang Ting-Yi , Ho Chung-Han , Huang Steven K. , Chiu Allen W. , Li Chien-Feng , Shiue Yow-Ling
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the complex relationship between body mass index (BMI) and bladder cancer outcomes, utilizing Taiwan’s national database. Bladder cancer remains a significant health concern, especially in Taiwan, prompting a comprehensive retrospective analysis to explore the impact of obesity on survival outcomes.

Materials and methods

A meticulous exclusion process, based on Taiwan National Health Insurance System Database, refined the initial dataset of 15,086 bladder cancer patients to 10,352. Categorizing patients into BMI groups (underweight, normal weight, and obesity), the study examined baseline characteristics, comorbidities, and survival outcomes. The analysis involved Cox regression and subgroup assessments stratified by clinical stage.

Results

Among our patients, 71.5% are male, 78.5% are over 60 years of age, and 18.8% are between 45 and 60 years old. Despite a higher prevalence of comorbidities, obesity patients exhibited a more favorable prognosis, supporting the obesity paradox. The overall and specific mortality ratio of obesity patients were 0.76 fold and 0.82-fold compared with normal-weight patients (overall: 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.71–0.82, p < 0.0001; specific: 95% CI, 0.75–0.90, p < 0.0001). Conversely, underweight patients displayed an increased risk of both overall and cancer-specific mortality compared to normal-weight patients (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential protective role of higher BMI in bladder cancer survival, revealing a more favorable prognosis among obesity patients, highlighting the need for cautious interpretation and suggesting avenues for future research. These insights could guide BMI-targeted intervention strategies, allowing clinicians to consider BMI as a factor in personalized treatment planning for bladder cancer patients.
Dietary caffeine and its negative link to serum Klotho concentrations: evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Wu Haimeng , Lu Ping
Published: December 2024

Background

This is the initial investigation assessing the association between caffeine consumption through diet and circulating Klotho concentrations, with Klotho being recognized as a key biomarker of healthspan and aging.

Methods

This cross-sectional analysis utilized data from 11,169 adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Caffeine consumption was evaluated using 24-h dietary recall interviews by trained professionals, and serum Klotho concentrations were measured via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Generalized linear models and threshold effect analysis were employed to examine the relationship between caffeine intake and serum Klotho concentrations. Interaction tests and subgroup analyses were conducted to identify potential effect modifiers.

Results

After controlling for covariates, a negative correlation was observed between dietary caffeine consumption and serum Klotho concentrations, with each additional 100 mg of dietary caffeine consumption, Klotho decreased by 3.40 pg./mL (95% confidence interval [CI]: −5.73, −1.07). Participants in the fourth quartile of dietary caffeine consumption showed a 23.00 pg./mL reduction in serum Klotho concentrations (95% CI: −39.41, −6.58) compared to individuals in the first quartile. Threshold effect analysis revealed a threshold point corresponding to natural log-transformed caffeine value >3.74 (equivalent to ~41 mg/day), above which Klotho levels demonstrated a more pronounced decline. Subgroup analyses indicated that this association was more significant in participants with sedentary activity >480 min and without hypertension.

Conclusion

Our study reveals a significant, dose-dependent negative association linking caffeine intake with serum Klotho concentrations in the United States adults aged 40–79 years, with potential thresholds beyond which the effects become more pronounced. Additional studies are required to verify these results and investigate the underlying biological processes involved.
Octreotide plus IBI-318 plus anlotinib in the treatment of multiple neuroendocrine metastases of unknown primary lesions: a case report
Authors: Qin Haoyue , Yan Huan , Zhang Xing , Huang Zhe , Chen Yangqian , Zhang Yuda , Xiang Siqi , Zhang Yongchang , Yang Nong , Zeng Liang
Published: December 2024

Background

The second-line treatment of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of unknown primary origin remains uncertain. This report presented a patient who received octreotide plus IBI-318 plus anlotinib as a second-line treatment for multiple metastatic NETs of unknown primary lesions after the failure of octreotide plus everolimus.

Case presentation

A 32-year-old male patient presented with elevated CEA (197.83 ng/ml) without specific symptoms. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan showed multiple metastatic lymph nodes and multiple low-density nodules in the liver of undetermined nature. A right supraclavicular lymph node biopsy indicated NET, but the primary tumor origin remained unknown. PD-L1 expression was negative in tumor tissue according to immunohistochemistry. Immunofluorescence indicated the CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and Treg cells were gathered around blood vessels, with only a few infiltrating lymphocytes in the tumor tissue. Treatment with octreotide (30 mg/28 d) plus everolimus (5 mg qd) led to disease progression after three cycles. Treatment was changed to octreotide (30 mg/28 d) plus IBI318 (400 mg/28 d) plus anlotinib (10 mg/1-14 d/q3w), leading to partial remission, which was sustained up to the last follow-up (June 20, 2023), with a PFS of 11 months. The patient experienced no treatment-related adverse reactions.

Conclusions

Octreotide plus IBI318 plus anlotinib achieved benefits in a patient with advanced NETs of unknown primary lesions after first-line treatment failure, even though with low PD-L1 expression. This case suggests that combining SSAs, TKIs and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors could be an alternative second-line treatment for patients with advanced, well-differentiated NETs.
Prolonged survival by combination treatment with a standardized herbal extract from Japanese Kampo-medicine (Juzentaihoto) and gemcitabine in an orthotopic transplantation pancreatic cancer model
Authors: Napp Joanna , Siebel Paulina , Rausch Hans , Kuchta Kenny , Efferth Thomas , Alves Frauke , Ellenrieder Volker , Cameron Silke
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by its poor prognosis. Traditional Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo), such as Juzentaihoto (a standardized combination of 10 herbal extracts), has shown immune modulatory effects, modulation of microcirculation, and amelioration of fatigue. It is administered to patients to prevent deterioration of cachexia and counteract side effects of chemotherapy. The effect of Juzentaihoto with or without standard chemotherapy (Gemcitabine) on survival and tumor microenvironment was studied in an immunocompetent pancreatic cancer mouse model. Following tumor development ±12 days after orthotopic implantation of murine pancreatic cancer cells (KPC) into the pancreas of C57BL/6 mice, the mice were treated with Gemcitabine, Juzentaihoto, their combination (Gem/Juz) or NaCl (Ctr.). Combination treatment significantly prolonged survival (+38%) of tumor bearing mice, compared to controls as well as Gemcitabine or Juzentaihoto monotherapy. Macrophage (CD68+) infiltration in pancreatic tumors was significantly enhanced in Gem/Juz – treated animals, compared with controls (p < 0,001), with significant increases of both, macrophages (CD68+) and for lymphocytes (CD45+), especially at the tumor front. In vitro, Juz- or Gem/Juz-treated KPC tumor cells secreted significantly more macrophage-chemoattractant cytokines, e.g., CCL2, CCL20, and CXCL2, whilst Juz- and Gem/Juz-treated macrophages (MH-S) secreted cytokines of the M1 phenotype, e.g., IL6, TNF-α, and IL12. It has been shown that tumor cells recruit and polarize macrophages towards tumor-associated macrophages (TAM). Our results indicate a change in macrophage polarization which not only induced anti-tumor immune-cell activity and cytokine release, but also suggests amelioration of Gemcitabine efficacy as DNA-analogue and as partial antitumor antigen. We propose that the increased survival of tumor bearing mice after Gem/Juz combination treatment is due to the restored cytotoxicity of Gemcitabine and changes in the tumor-microenvironment - induced by Juzentaihoto - such as an increased number of M1 macrophages.
Hotspots and status of Fetal Alpha-Thalassemia from 2009 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Li Qiuying , Li Xinyan , He Sheng , Li Jiao
Published: December 2024

Objective

to evaluate the research status and development hotspots of fetal α-thalassemia by quantitatively analyzing the diagnostic status, key areas, related management measures and prospects of the disease by bibliometrics.

Methods

The global literature on fetal α-thalassemia and severe α-thalassemia from 2009–2023 in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) was visually analyzed by VOSviewer and CiteSpace.

Results

(1) The examination of the quantity of publications concerning fetal α-thalassemia indicates a rising tendency prior to 2018, followed by a decrease after 2018. (2)The United States, China, Italy, Thailand have published more papers, and the United States has more collaborating countries such as Italy and China. (3) Chiang Mai University and Harvard University are the top two institutions with the highest contribution. However, Chiang Mai University's H index (12) and citation frequency per article (8.05) are relatively low and the NC (6,342), H index (33) and citations per article (75.42) of Harvard University are higher than those of the other institutions. (4) Tongsong T, Gambari R and Fucharoen S are the top three prolific authors. Fucharoen S emerges as the most frequently cited author with 738 citations, excluding self-citations. (5) HEMOGLOBIN leading with 87 published papers (NC:601,IF: 0.82, H-index: 13), followed by BLOOD(58 papers, Nc: 3755, IF: 25.48, H-index: 40) and BLOOD CELLS MOLECULES AND DISEASES(39 papers, Nc: 729, IF: 2.37, H-index: 16). (6) The most cited article was published in science and the second and third cited articles were featured in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences; the top 3 clusters of co-cited literature are “gene editing”, “polymorphisms”, “hydroxyurea”. (7) Keywords analysis showe that the top two categories of keyword cluster focus on the prenatal diagnosis and the current treatment strategy of the disease, which remain the research hotspots.

Conclusions

Recent research on this topic has primarily focused on prenatal diagnosis and treatment strategies. A particular area of interest is the ongoing research on gene therapy.The advances in non-invasive diagnosis and therapeutic methods will change the current management approaches for fetal severe α-thalassemia in the future.
Case Report: Primary catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome in a pediatric patient with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis as the first manifestation
Authors: Xu Lingyang , Wu Jing , Wang Haidong , Yang Baowang
Published: December 2024

Background

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by recurrent vascular thrombotic events. Catastrophic APS (CAPS), which can result in multiple organ failure and even death, is the most severe manifestation of APS. Herein, we report the case of a pediatric patient with CAPS, including the clinical course, diagnosis, and treatment, with the goal of expanding the literature on this condition, as reports of CAPS in pediatric patients are rare.

Case presentation

A 7-year-old girl presented with cranial hypertension. She was initially admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) and was discharged following symptom improvement. However, only 3 days later, the patient was re-presented with cranial hypertension and multiple thromboses and was ultimately diagnosed with CAPS based on multidisciplinary consensus. Despite treatment with a series of anticoagulation and thrombolytic therapies, the child's condition progressed rapidly, and she eventually died of pulmonary embolism.

Conclusion

CAPS in children is rare and associated with a high mortality rate, making early recognition and diagnosis critical but difficult. Based on the presented case, we recommend routine screening for antiphospholipid antibodies in children with CVST without obvious triggers, or a multidisciplinary collaboration, to facilitate the early diagnosis of CAPS.
Paromomycin targets HDAC1-mediated SUMOylation and IGF1R translocation in glioblastoma
Authors: Min Zhong , Guo Yuejie , Ning Luo
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study investigates the effects of Paromomycin on SUMOylation-related pathways in glioblastoma (GBM), specifically targeting HDAC1 inhibition.

Methods

Using TCGA and GTEx datasets, we identified SUMOylation-related genes associated with GBM prognosis. Molecular docking analysis suggested Paromomycin as a potential HDAC1 inhibitor. In vitro assays on U-251MG GBM cells were performed to assess Paromomycin’s effects on cell viability, SUMOylation gene expression, and IGF1R translocation using CCK8 assays, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence.

Results

Paromomycin treatment led to a dose-dependent reduction in GBM cell viability, colony formation, and migration. It modulated SUMO1 expression and decreased IGF1R nuclear translocation, an effect reversible by the HDAC1 inhibitor Trochostatin A (TSA), suggesting Paromomycin’s involvement in SUMO1-regulated pathways.

Conclusion

This study highlights Paromomycin’s potential as a therapeutic agent for GBM by targeting HDAC1-mediated SUMOylation pathways and influencing IGF1R translocation, warranting further investigation for its clinical application.
Understanding the defense mechanism of Allium plants through the onion isoallicin-omics study
Authors: Cho Heejung , Park Ji Yeon , Kim Duck Hyun , Han JiWon , Natesan Karthi , Choi Min-Seon , Lee Seon-Kyeong , Kim Jiseon , Cho Kun , Ahn Byoung Ohg
Published: December 2024

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is an important seasoning vegetable worldwide. It belongs to the Allium genus, which produces distinctive flavor compounds, allicin/isoallicin. It has been known that allicin/isoallicin is produced upon cell damage by vacuole-localized alliinase releasing. Pungent isoallicin and lachrymaroty factor (LF) are unique features of onions. To understand the isoallicin system of onions, we identified and characterized the biosynthesis-related genes by displaying transcriptional profiles and analyzing the isoallicin contents of onion plants. The DHW30006 onion genome encoded 64 alliinase (ALL) and 29 LF synthase (LFS) proteins, which are the key enzymes for producing of isoallicin and LF. Interestingly, when we analyzed the N-terminal signal peptide sequences (SP) necessary for transport to the vacuole, we found that 14 ALLs contained the SP (SP-ALL) and 50 ALLs did not (non-SP-ALL). We hypothesized that non-SP-ALLs stayed in the cytosol of onion cells, reacted with isoalliin, and generated isoallicin without cell damage. Our transcriptome and LC-MS/MS analyses reveal that isoallicin levels vary significantly across onion tissues and growth stages, with substantial production occurring in intact cells through cytosolic alliinases and an increase through vacuolar alliinases upon tissue disruption. This novel observation suggests that the isoallicin system in onions functions as a dual-defense mechanism: cytosolic alliinases maintain a constant level of defense against biotic stress in undamaged tissues, while vacuolar alliinases enhance isoallicin production in response to tissue damage by herbivory and insects. Together, these coordinated mechanisms demonstrate an adaptable and dynamic defense strategy against biotic stresses in Allium plants.
Could you teach new tricks to old dogs? An analysis of online communication of political leaders in Spanish regional elections
Authors: Pérez-Castaños Sergio , Antón-Merino Javier , García-Hípola Giselle
Published: December 2024

Two regional elections were held in 2022, marking the start of a new electoral phase in Spain. The first election was held in February in Castilla y León, where the right-wing VOX party formed a coalition government with the right-wing Partido Popular for the first time. At the same time, the far-left party Podemos saw its parliamentary representation significantly reduced. Subsequently, in June, Andalusia held its elections, in which VOX increased its representation by two seats, marking the beginning of its rise at the national electoral level. Conversely, the extreme left, split between two parties, saw its representation decline, losing 10 seats. This study attempts to juxtapose the electoral strategies employed by the leaders of the different political parties, with a particular focus on the communication strategies of leaders and parties on X (formerly Twitter) throughout the campaign period. It is expected that discrepancies will emerge not only between political entities, but also between regions. To investigate this hypothesis, we conducted a content analysis of X accounts, selecting those associated with regional presidential candidates within each region. We distinguish between those considered ‘traditional’ political parties and those considered ‘new’, including in these two categories the main contending political parties in each region. Thanks to the analysis, the proposed objective is achieved, demonstrating the existing differences between the two types of political parties and how their leaders use the social platform X. The results show that all the elements considered in the study are present, although not uniformly across both regions analyzed. This suggests a progressive alignment between new and traditional parties, reflecting a convergence in their strategies for conducting electoral campaigns.
Association between positive youth development and family functioning in the Chinese context: a four-wave longitudinal survey in mainland China
Authors: Li Xiang , Tang Yi-Ting , Shek Daniel T. L.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

There is a notable scarcity of research examining the developmental trajectories of positive youth development (PYD) attributes among Chinese preadolescents and adolescents and the predictive effect of family functioning on these trajectories over time.

Methods

Using four waves of data, this longitudinal study investigated preadolescents and adolescents in China in January 2020 (T1), June 2020 (T2), June 2021 (T3), and June 2022 (T4). The study utilized the 90-item “Chinese Positive Youth Development Scale” and the 33-item “Chinese Family Assessment Instrument” to assess PYD and family functioning, respectively. The final matched sample comprised 2,652 Chinese students from grades 4 to 8, with an average age of 10.9 years (SD = 1.32; range 9–15) at the first wave of the survey, and with 51.1% male (n = 1,354).

Results

The Latent Growth Curve Modeling (LGCM) revealed that the PYD developmental trajectories of preadolescents and adolescents followed a quadratic U-shaped curve, characterized by an initial decline from T1 to T3, followed by a rebound from T3 to T4. Although the time-invariant covariate LGCM indicated no significant gender difference in the initial level of PYD, girls exhibited a slower decline rate and a faster growth rate in PYD over time than did boys. The parallel LGCM demonstrated that initial levels of family functioning significantly and positively predicted both the initial level and the rate of change in PYD over time.

Discussion

This study highlights the critical importance of considering the direct and sustained impact of family functioning within Chinese contexts on positive developmental outcomes among Chinese preadolescents and adolescents. This study also suggests that when designing and formulating specific programs or interventions, it is essential to consider gender differences in the development of competencies to ensure the optimal development of young individuals of different genders.
Case report: Receptive labeling training in autism: conventional vs. technology-based approaches? a single case study
Authors: Minutoli Roberta , Scarcella Ileana , Doria Germana , Vetrano Noemi , Chilà Paola , Sireci Maria Josè , Gismondo Stefania , Failla Chiara , Pioggia Giovanni , Marino Flavia
Published: December 2024

Background

Receptive language, the ability to comprehend and respond to spoken language, poses significant challenges for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). To support communication in autistic children, interventions like Lovaas’ simple-conditional method and Green’s conditional-only method are commonly employed. Personalized approaches are essential due to the spectrum nature of autism. Advancements in technology have opened new avenues for personalizing therapeutic interventions. This single case study compares traditional and technology-based learning sets in a receptive labeling teaching program using Green’s method.

Methods

An alternating treatments design assessed the number of sessions required to achieve mastery in receptive identification of stimuli presented on flashcards or tablets. The study involved a six-year-old Italian child with ASD named Pietro. Initial assessment using the Verbal Behavior Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) determined Pietro’s strengths and weaknesses. Six stimuli were selected and divided into two sets: traditional and technology-based. Sessions were semi-randomly alternated, and the teaching procedures remained constant across conditions. In the traditional condition, sessions were conducted twice a week, using flashcards. Correct responses received immediate social reinforcement. In the technological condition, the same stimuli were presented on a tablet via PowerPoint slides.

Results

Pietro achieved mastery more quickly with flashcard instruction than with tablet instruction. Learning was exponential in the traditional condition and linear in the digital condition. Follow-up assessments three weeks post-treatment showed no differences in the generalization and maintenance of skills between the two modalities.

Discussion

The findings indicate that the format of stimulus delivery affects the learning process, with traditional flashcards leading to faster mastery in this case. Individual motivation appears crucial, suggesting that Pietro’s learning history influenced his performance. Personalized approaches remain vital in autism interventions. Further research is needed to determine if these differences extend to other skills or contexts.

Conclusion

While technology-based interventions offer new opportunities, they are not universally more effective than traditional methods. Careful consideration of individual differences, especially motivational factors, is essential in designing effective autism intervention programs.
Rift Valley Fever outbreaks in the East African Community: insights from ProMed data (2010–2024)
Authors: Ndishimye Pacifique , Umuhoza Therese , Umutoni Brigitte , Zakham Fathiah , Ndayambaje Matin , Hewins Benjamin , Ngabo Gasana Methode , Ostadgavahi Ali Toloue , Sganzerla Gustavo , Ndayisenga Fabrice , Kelvin David , Udahemuka Jean Claude
Published: December 2024

Background

Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease that poses a serious threat to both humans and livestock across various regions, particularly in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of the Indian Ocean Islands. This study seeks to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution and trends of RVF outbreaks within the East African Community (EAC) countries, offering insights into the patterns and progression of these outbreaks in the region.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of the Program for Monitoring Emerging Diseases (ProMed), a digital, event-based disease surveillance system, to identify reports of outbreak events in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and South Sudan from 2010 to 2024. Outbreak events were systematically tabulated by year, and each record was reviewed to assess RVF outbreak characteristics, locations, trends, and spatial-temporal distribution over the past 14 years.

Results

Between 2010 and 2024, 67 RVF outbreaks were documented across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, and South Sudan, impacting both animal and human populations with confirmed cases and fatalities. Key interventions to contain these outbreaks included restricting animal movement, vaccination campaigns, disease awareness initiatives, enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, isolation, and treatment. Reporting of these outbreaks varied across regions, with a notable monthly increase in cases during May and June and the highest annual incidence observed in 2018.

Conclusion

The recurrent and widespread outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever across East Africa highlight an urgent need for increased investment in research, surveillance, prevention, and control efforts to combat this disease.
Socio-demographic factors related to children’s knowledge about their rights to healthcare services in transitional Albania
Authors: Muja Herion , Vasil Suela , Qendro Andis , Clemens Timo , Toçi Dorina , Toçi Ervin , Brand Helmut , Burazeri Genc
Published: December 2024

Background

Our aim was to assess the level and socio-demographic correlates of knowledge about rights to healthcare services among children in post-communist Albania in order to inform targeted interventions and policies to promote equitable healthcare access for all children.

Methods

An online survey conducted in Albania in September 2022 included a nationwide representative sample of 7,831 schoolchildren (≈54% girls) aged 12–15 years. A structured and anonymous questionnaire was administered inquiring about children’s knowledge on their rights to healthcare services. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association of children’s knowledge about their rights to healthcare services with socio-demographic characteristics.

Results

Overall, about 78% of the children had knowledge about their rights to healthcare services. In multivariable adjusted logistic regression models, independent “predictors” of lack of knowledge about rights to healthcare services included male gender (OR = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1–1.3), younger age (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.1–1.4), pertinence to Roma/Egyptian community (OR = 1.6, 95% CI = 1.1–2.2), and a poor/very poor economic situation (OR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.0–1.6).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a significantly lower level of knowledge about rights to healthcare services among children from low socioeconomic families and especially those pertinent to ethnic minorities such as Roma/Egyptian communities, which can result in limited access to essential health services, increased vulnerability to health disparities, and barriers to receiving appropriate care and advocacy for their health and well-being. Seemingly, gender, ethnicity, and economic status are crucial for children’s knowledge of their healthcare rights because these factors shape their access to information, influence their experiences with healthcare systems, and can drive policy and practice to address disparities and ensure equitable access to health services. Health professionals and policymakers in Albania and elsewhere should be aware of the unmet needs for healthcare services due to lack of awareness to navigate the system particularly among disadvantaged population groups.
Uptake and determinants of HPV vaccination in South Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Noreen Khola , Naeem Khalid Samina , Murad Manal Abdulaziz , Baig Mukhtiar , Khan Shahzad Ali
Published: December 2024

Background

Cervical cancer burden in South Asia is among the highest globally. Due to the lack of national immunization programs, the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and vaccine uptake remains unknown. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to determine the prevalence of HPV vaccine uptake in South Asia.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science, covering the period from inception to May 20, 2024. We included observational studies reporting HPV vaccine uptake in South Asia, without any language filters or restrictions. The search strategy involved MeSH terms and relevant keywords related to “Papillomavirus Infections,” “Vaccination,” and “Uptake.” MetaXL and STATA were used to perform a proportional meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis.

Results

Out of 3,913 articles identified, 17 articles (10,585 participants) were included in the systematic review. The pooled prevalence of vaccine uptake was 8% (95% CI 1–21). There was high heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 100%). The pooled prevalence of adequate knowledge of the HPV vaccine was 41% (95% CI 28–55, I2 = 99%). The pooled prevalence of a favorable attitude toward the HPV vaccine was 56% (95% CI 47–66, I2 = 98%). In the univariate meta-regression model, good knowledge significantly predicted HPV vaccine uptake (p = 0.003), while no covariates were found to be significant predictors of attitudes toward HPV vaccine uptake.

Conclusion

The findings of this meta-analysis indicate a low pooled prevalence of HPV vaccine uptake (8%) in South Asian countries. The pooled prevalence of adequate knowledge and a favorable attitude toward the vaccine were 41 and 56%, respectively. In the univariate meta-regression model, knowledge of the HPV vaccine uptake was the only significant predictor of vaccine uptake.

Systematic review registration

Systematic review is registered at Prospero through the link https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024547393
Taking the temperature of the United States public regarding microbiome engineering
Authors: Cummings Christopher , Landreville Kristen D. , Kuzma Jennifer
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the first representative survey of U.S. adults’ opinions on microbiome engineering within the built environment, revealing public awareness, perceived benefits and risks, and attitudes toward genetically engineered microbiomes. Using data from a cross-sectional survey of 1,000 nationally representative U.S. residents over 18 years of age, we examined demographic and cultural factors influencing public sentiment. Results indicate that younger generations report higher knowledge levels, optimism, and perceived benefits of microbiome engineering, while older generations exhibit more caution and concern about risks. Political affiliation, education level, and trust in science also shape public attitudes, with Democrats, college-educated individuals, and those with higher trust in science more likely to view microbiome engineering positively. Notably, nearly half of respondents across demographic groups remain uncertain about the technology’s benefits and risks, and a majority of participants support government oversight to ensure ethical and responsible development. These insights provide a foundation for policymakers and researchers to foster informed public engagement and guide responsible innovation in microbiome engineering for built environments.
The mental health care system for children and adolescents in Greece: a review and structure assessment
Authors: Marchionatti Lauro Estivalete , Schafer Julia Luiza , Karagiorga Vasiliki Eirini , Balikou Panagiota , Mitropoulou Andromachi , Serdari Aspasia , Moschos Giorgos , Athanasopoulou Lilian , Basta Maria , Simioni André , Vicenzi Julian , Kapsimalli Efstathia , Tzotzi Alexandra , Mitroulaki Sotiria , Papanikolaou Katerina , Triantafyllou Kalliopi , Moustaka Dimitra , Saxena Shekhar , Evans-Lacko Sara , Androutsos Christos , Koumoula Anastasia , Salum Giovanni Abrahão , Kotsis Konstantinos
Published: December 2024

Background

The mental health system in Greece faces challenges to complete its transition to a community-oriented model, having significant concerns for child and adolescent care due to lower coverage and service gaps. This component of the mental health system has not been comprehensively evaluated.

Methods

We conducted a review of the mental health care system for children and adolescents in Greece. For a field assessment, we directly collected data from mental health services to map availability and distribution. We analyzed the needs of human resources using professional register data and the national census.

Results

The National Health Care Service (ESY, Εθνικό Σύστημα Υγείας) is the public health system in Greece, characterized by public governance but significant private participation. Although ESY aims for universal care, gaps in population coverage and high user fees create barriers to access. Embedded within ESY, the mental health system is shifting towards a community-oriented structure since the psychiatric reform. For children and adolescents, there is a developing framework for regionalization and community services, including day centers, inpatient facilities, outpatient departments, and school-based psychoeducational facilities. However, services lack coordination in a stepped care model. Patient pathways are not established and primary care rarely involves child mental health, leading to direct access to specialists. Services operate in isolation due to the absence of online registers. There is no systematic performance monitoring, yet some assessments indicate that professional practices may lack evidence-based guidelines. Our mapping highlighted a scarcity of public structures, with an unbalanced regional distribution and many underserved areas. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are predominantly affiliated with the private sector, leading to professional gaps in the public system.

Conclusions

Our assessment identifies an established framework for a community-oriented, universally accessible mental health system, yet several barriers impede its full realization. These include an inconsistent primary healthcare system, a shortage of specialists in the public sector, imbalanced service distribution, lack of coordination among providers, underfunding, and absence of quality monitoring. We propose interventions to promote child and adolescent mental health in primary care, coordinate patient pathways, establish standards of care, and monitor performance.
Advancing teleoperation for legged manipulation with wearable motion capture
Authors: Zhou Chengxu , Wan Yuhui , Peers Christopher , Delfaki Andromachi Maria , Kanoulas Dimitrios
Published: December 2024

The sanctity of human life mandates the replacement of individuals with robotic systems in the execution of hazardous tasks. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), a field fraught with mortal danger, stands at the forefront of this transition. In this study, we explore the potential of robotic telepresence as a safeguard for human operatives, drawing on the robust capabilities demonstrated by legged manipulators in diverse operational contexts. The challenge of autonomy in such precarious domains underscores the advantages of teleoperation—a harmonious blend of human intuition and robotic execution. Herein, we introduce a cost-effective telepresence and teleoperation system employing a legged manipulator, which combines a quadruped robot, an integrated manipulative arm, and RGB-D sensory capabilities. Our innovative approach tackles the intricate challenge of whole-body control for a quadrupedal manipulator. The core of our system is an IMU-based motion capture suit, enabling intuitive teleoperation, augmented by immersive visual telepresence via a VR headset. We have empirically validated our integrated system through rigorous real-world applications, focusing on loco-manipulation tasks that necessitate comprehensive robot control and enhanced visual telepresence for EOD operations.
Revisiting the relationship between surface and column-integrated chlorophyll-a concentrations in the Biogeochemical-Argo and satellite era
Authors: Tanner Ella Poppy , Ewin Harry , Viljoen Johannes J. , Brewin Robert J. W.
Published: December 2024

Phytoplankton occupy the oceans’ euphotic zone and are responsible for its primary production; thus, our ability to monitor their patterns of abundance and physiology is vital for tracking ocean health. Ocean colour sensors mounted on satellites can monitor the surface patterns of phytoplankton daily at global scales but cannot see into the subsurface. Autonomous robotic platforms, like Biogeochemical-Argo (BGC-Argo) profiling floats, do not have the coverage of satellites but can monitor the subsurface. Combining these methods can help track phytoplankton patterns throughout the euphotic zone. In this study, using a global array of BGC-Argo floats (76,043 profiles, spanning from 2010 to 2023), we revisit empirical relationships between the surface and column-integrated concentrations of chlorophyll-a (a proxy for phytoplankton abundance and physiology), originally developed using ship-based profiling data. We show that these relationships agree well with BGC-Argo float data. We then extend the relationships, removing the binary switch in parameters between mixed and stratified waters and trophic conditions such that the column-integrated chlorophyll-a concentration can be estimated as a continuous function of surface chlorophyll-a and a proxy for stratification (we use the optical mixed-layer depth, the mixed-layer depth multiplied by the diffuse attenuation coefficient, which is proportional to the ratio of the euphotic depth to the mixed layer depth when it approaches 1). The new model is shown to perform well in statistical tests (using separate training and independent validation data, with a correlation coefficient >0.73) and has fewer parameters than the earlier version. The model can be applied to satellite observations of surface chlorophyll-a and diffuse attenuation, together with fields of mixed-layer depth (e.g., from Argo), to track changes in column-integrated chlorophyll-a. Such fields may be useful for obtaining estimates of primary production, evaluating ecosystem models, and quantifying trophic energy transfer. The model may also be used to evaluate the influence of changing stratification patterns on phytoplankton abundance and physiology.
Disinformation and calculated care beyond the Global North: comparing refugee discourses in Australia and India
Authors: Khorana Sukhmani , Thapliyal Nisha
Published: December 2024

This article explores what “care” looks like in the specific context of Muslim refugees and asylum seekers within the dominant discourse of humanitarianism. India and Australia are chosen for this comparative analysis because our aim is to emphasise multidimensional anti-Muslim alliances that are now in place in both contexts between the governments and official and unofficial media that influence humanitarian policies and practice. We argue that the “information disorder” that dominates current media ecologies about Muslim refugees in both countries is produced at this nexus of official agents—both state and media institutions—as well as social media content produced by local and global actors that perpetuate anti-Muslim bias. More specifically, this article examines how India has responded to emergencies involving the Rohingya refugees, and Australia’s treatment of post-9/11 Muslim refugees and asylum seekers. We demonstrate that these states and the media they sponsor are linked to the use of disinformation, or deliberately inaccurate information to seed and perpetuate Islamophobic sentiments and thereby practice a form of “calculated care”. The examples in this article highlight the need to build on our understanding of what constitutes humanitarian care towards vulnerable and stateless populations. Furthermore, they call for response strategies that take into cognizance the fact that Islamophobia has been institutionalized in the public sphere in order to promote culturally supremacist discourses of traditional values as well as national security.
Navigating resistance on digital platforms: delivery and transportation labor in Türkiye
Authors: Ersöz Batuhan , Başaran Altan
Published: December 2024

Digital platforms are transforming the world of work. However, platforms operating in similar fields of activity encounter varying mechanisms of opposition, as a result of different degrees of professional institutionalization and their relations with the state. This study examines the diversified labor/capital struggle processes on platforms operating at different points of urban mobility in Istanbul and makes an evaluation between delivery and transportation platforms. Therefore, the actions of workers against digital platforms, news reports and public statements of relevant actors in both fields were systematically analyzed. As a result of the study, it is seen that the labor struggle in delivery services includes demands for the regulation of work in parallel with traditional working class reflexes. On the other hand, the resistance in the urban transport platforms is formed in the center of the rent and turns into an institutional struggle as a result of the public activity of the actors. Thus, the inter-class struggle in delivery services operating on digital platforms transforms into an intra-class rent-sharing struggle in urban transport.
Sustainable healthy diets in China: a multidimensional framework and assessment
Authors: Zhu Wenbo , Han Xinru , Liu Yang , Li Guojing , Wen Jinshang
Published: December 2024

In China, the urgent need to formulate food policies that address both nutritional health and climate challenges has become increasingly apparent. This study constructs a theoretical framework and a multi-objective programming model that takes into account income disparities, aiming to delineate a sustainable healthy diet for Chinese residents and pinpoint key areas for dietary transformation. Our findings reveal that a sustainable healthy diet in China should involve moderate adjustments to staple foods, such as reducing rice consumption in favor of alternatives like flour and other grains. The diet should emphasize low-fat consumption, increased intake of fruits and vegetables, and a balanced intake of animal products by reducing meat, poultry, eggs, and fish, while ensuring sufficient consumption of chicken, shrimp, and dairy products. Furthermore, it recommends reducing alcohol consumption and limiting high-calorie snacks like cakes. This proposed diets achieves multiple objectives: it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the food system by 12.8%, decrease food expenditure by 1.1%, and significantly improve dietary quality. However, the study also highlights a trade-off between consumer interests and environmental benefits across different income groups. For the low-income group, minimal dietary changes result in a 2.0% increase in food expenses and an 11.1% increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Conversely, while the diet may slightly misalign with the preferences of middle and high-income groups, these groups benefit from reductions in food expenses (ranging from 0.4 to 4.8%) and greenhouse gas emissions (ranging from 14.5 to 23.4%). Thus, initiating reforms from the consumer end of the food system and guiding dietary patterns towards a healthier and more sustainable pattern through targeted food policies could be a crucial strategy for addressing nutritional and environmental challenges. However, it is essential to balance environmental benefits with ensuring the welfare of different income groups within China’s diverse economic landscape. This calls for differentiated policies to safeguard the wellbeing of the population.
Protective effects of soybean peptides on H2O2-induced oxidative injury in IPEC-J2 cells
Authors: Lu Fushan , Yin Qingqiang , Wang Xiao , Xu Lijuan , Liu Mengjie , Zhang Qian , Sheng Hai , Liu Chaoqi , Wang Ping , Wang Lijun , Jin Sanjun , Li Xinxin , Chang Juan , Zhu Qun
Published: December 2024

The purpose of the study was to demonstrate how soybean peptides (SBP) protect against H2O2 -induced injury in intestinal porcine epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). SBP were prepared by protease hydrolysis, in which the molecular weights of 95.76% SBP were smaller than 3 kDa. Cell experiment included four groups: Control group (IPEC-J2 cells were treated with HGDMEM), SBP group (100 μg/mL SBP incubation for 13 h), H2O2 treatment group (1 mM H2O2 treatment for 1 h), SBP + H2O2 group (100 μg/mL SBP pretreatment for 12 h followed by 1 mM H2O2 treatment for 1 h). This study showed that that treatment with single 1 mM H2O2 for 1 h significantly reduced cell viability to 52.99% (p < 0.05), up-regulated Bax and Caspase-3 gene expressions (p < 0.05), and down-regulated gene expressions of ZO-1, CAT, SOD1, HO-1 and Nrf2 (p < 0.05), compared with the control group. However, pretreatment with SBP followed by H2O2 inducement significantly increased cell viability to 72.99%, decreased cell apoptosis, increased SOD, CAT and GSH-Px activity (p < 0.05), down-regulated Bax and Caspase-3 gene expressions (p < 0.05), and up-regulated the gene expressions of ZO-1, Claudin-1, Occludin, catalase, glutathione GPX1, SOD1, HO-1, NQO1 and Nrf2, compared with the single H2O2–induced cells. According to the study, SBP pretreatment reduced H2O2-induced oxidative stress in cells and preserved the integrity of intestinal cells.