bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of two transcription factors that work coordinately to regulate early development in
Entamoeba
Authors: Lozano-Amado Daniela , Singh Upinder 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

The protozoan parasite
Entamoeba
has a life cycle that switches between infective cysts and invasive trophozoites. Encystation, a crucial process in parasite biology, is controlled by different mechanisms including transcriptional control. We identified two nuclear proteins in
Entamoeba invadens
, EIN_066100 and EIN_085620, that regulate parasite development by binding to a DNA motif (TCACTTTC) in the promoter regions of genes upregulated in the first 8 h of stage conversion. Overexpression of EIN_066100, a homolog of MAK16 protein, resulted in reduced amoebic proliferation without affecting encystation efficiency. Overexpression of EIN_085620, a protein with an RNA-recognition motif (RRM), led to increased encystation efficiency. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) pull down assays revealed that EIN_066100 interacts with EIN_085620 both
in vivo
and
in vitro,
and this interaction is mediated by the EIN_085620 RRM domain. By evaluating truncated proteins with deletions at either the N-terminal or C-terminal regions of EIN_066100, we elucidated the importance of its N-terminal region in proper protein localization, proliferation, encystation, and interaction with EIN_085620. Taken together, these results indicate a coordinated role of EIN_066100 and EIN_085620 in regulating
Entamoeba
development. This work sheds light on the molecular mechanisms in the earliest stages of
Entamoeba
encystation.

IMPORTANCE

An important biological process in the biology of
Entamoeba
is stage conversion, which plays a crucial role in disease propagation, facilitating parasite survival outside the host and spreading to new hosts. Multiple mechanisms contribute to controlling the expression of amebic stage-specific genes such as epigenetic and transcriptional control. Identification of early transcriptional control regulators is crucial to understanding the initiation of the encystation cascade. We identified two nuclear proteins, EIN_066100 and EIN_085620, involved in the proliferation and developmental regulation of
E. invadens
. These proteins work by direct binding to each other and mediating encystation efficiency. Study of new regulators involved in
Entamoeba
development represents an important advance in a critical aspect of parasite biology.
Characteristics of urinary stone composition among patients with urolithiasis: a retrospective study in China
Authors: Wang Bin , Zheng Xujuan , Xiong Juan , Sun Zhongyi 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveTo present the most recent data on urinary calculi characteristics in the southern region of China and explore the effects of sociodemographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics on stone composition to fill the research gap.SettingA retrospective observational study was performed in Shenzhen between December 2019 and August 2022.ParticipantsA total of 858 calculi samples from patients with urolithiasis were analysed via infrared spectroscopy.MethodsThe stone was classified by the European Association of Urology guidelines and the Mayo Clinic stone classification practices. Multivariate logistic regression models were conducted to evaluate the association between different characteristics and urinary stone composition.ResultsWe found that the majority of these patients with urolithiasis were under 60. Almost half of the stone samples (49.4%) were single constitute, and calcium oxalate stone accounted for the highest proportion (80.0%), followed by infection stone (10.0%) and uric acid stone (4.9%). Of these, 78.0% were collected from males, with a male-to-female ratio of 3.54:1; the majority (95.0%) of calculi localisation was in the upper urinary tract. Multivariate analysis found that age, gender, history of urolithiasis, kidney disease, anatomical location and urinary pH influenced urinary stone composition.ConclusionsThe effective prevention of urolithiasis is the key to this working-age population. These findings may supply significant evidence for understanding the underlying aetiology of urolithiasis and offer clues for effectively preventing and treating urinary calculi.
Factors associated with HPV vaccine acceptance and hesitancy in Africa: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mavundza Edison Johannes , Jaca Anelisa , Cooper Sara , Ndwandwe Duduzile Edith , Wiysonge Charles Shey 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionHuman papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection worldwide. HPV vaccination is an important tool to prevent and control HPV infection and its complications. Despite carrying the severe burden of disease, HPV vaccine coverage in Africa remains low. The aim of the current review is to evaluate the factors associated with HPV vaccination acceptance among adolescent men and women, young men and women, parents/caregivers, men who have sex with men, healthcare workers and programme managers in Africa.Methods and analysisWe will include peer-reviewed quantitative studies. We will search PubMed, Scopus, PsycInfo, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, with no language restriction, to identify eligible studies. Two review authors will independently screen the titles and abstracts of the search output in Covidence to select potentially eligible studies. The same two reviewers will independently screen the full-text of all identified potentially eligible articles to identify studies meeting inclusion criteria. Two review authors will independently extract data from eligible studies using a predefined data extraction form. Two review authors will independently assess the risk of bias in each included study, using the Effective Public Health Practice Project ‘Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies’. We will assess the quality of evidence using the method for Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required for this study because we will use already published data. The results of this review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentation.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42023475810.
Study protocol: the ‘Endoscope CRC’ cohort, a prospective biobank study on the development and evaluation of diagnostic and prognostic biomarker profiles for colorectal cancer and premalignant lesions
Authors: Cheng Hao Ran , van Vorstenbosch Robert , Jonkers Daisy , Masclee Adrian , Schoon Erik , van Schooten Frederik J , Smolinska Agnieszka , Mujagic Zlatan 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionEarly detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) and clinically relevant (advanced) adenomas leads to a significant reduction of CRC-related mortality and morbidity. However, the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) suffers from a high number of false-positive results and is insensitive to detecting advanced adenomas, resulting in false-negative results for these premalignant lesions. Therefore, more accurate, non-invasive screening tools are needed for the detection and prognostication of colorectal neoplasia. Previous research on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) analysis in breath and faeces has shown to be promising potential biomarkers for this purpose. Several VOC-sampling methods, including breath sampling, have improved significantly over the recent years resulting in an increased reliability of measurements. Therefore, we aim to identify relevant VOC profiles in exhaled breath and faeces for the diagnosis of colorectal neoplasia while taking into account relevant confounding factors. Follow-up data will be used to identify relevant VOC profiles in exhaled breath and faeces for the prognostication of colorectal neoplasia. Finally, a biobank will be set up for future research questions on this topic.Methods and analysisSubjects with positive FIT within the Dutch national CRC cancer screening programme are included. Subjects are asked to fill in questionnaires and exhaled breath, faeces and blood are sampled prior to colonoscopy. All subjects are asked to fill in follow-up questionnaires at years 1 and 5 of the study. In case of surveillance colonoscopies, subjects are asked to provide exhaled breath, faeces and blood prior to the colonoscopy again. Breath sampling is performed using the ReCIVA breath sampler. VOCs in breath and faeces are analysed using gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Raw GC-MS data is preprocessed and analysed using machine learning techniques.Ethics and disseminationThe study is approved by the medical ethics committee at the Maastricht University Medical Center (NL74844.068.20) in November 2021 and started inclusion in January 2022.
Efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease: a study protocol for a multicentre, randomised, sham acupuncture-controlled, patient-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Zhao Jingjie , Zhao Xinyu , Wang Qianyi , Ren Hao , Cao DI , Hu Xiangdong , Yang Lei , Chen Wei , Yang Jing-Wen , You Hong 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundMetabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world and carries an increased risk of liver-related events, but no approved medicine. Electroacupuncture has been used to treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, but its effect was uncertain because of the poor quality of prior studies. We designed this trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture for MAFLD.Methods/designThis is a multicentre, randomised, sham acupuncture-controlled, patient-blinded clinical trial. Participants will take part in a total of 20 weeks of study, containing three phases: a 4‐week run-in period, 12‐week treatment (36 sessions of acupuncture) and 4‐week follow‐up. A total of 144 eligible patients diagnosed with MAFLD will be randomly allocated to the electroacupuncture or sham acupuncture groups. The primary outcome is the percentage of relative liver fat reduction on the MRI proton density fat fraction from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes include magnetic resonance elastography, liver and metabolic biomarkers, anthropometry parameters, blinding assessment, credibility and expectancy, and adverse events. All patients who receive randomisation will be included in the intent-to-treat analysis.DiscussionThe finding of this trial will provide evidence of the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture for the treatment of MAFLD. The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberwww.chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2200060353. It was registered on 29 May 2022.
Determinants of underweight among returnee lactating mothers in Gedeb District, Southern Ethiopia: a case–control study
Authors: Estifanos Mahlet Birhane , Erku Abera Negesse , Ewune Temesgen Muche , Amare Hiwot Hailu , Zenebe Wagaye Alemu , Zerfu Taddese Alemu 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the determinants of underweight among returnees lactating mothers in governmental health facilities of Gedeo zone, Southern Ethiopia.DesignCase–control study.SettingGedeb District governmental health facilities.ParticipantsA total of 264 returnees lactating mothers (88 cases and 176 controls) were randomly selected from four health institutions of Gedeb District.Outcome measuresUnderweight was measured by anthropometric measurement weight/height2. An institutional-based unmatched case–control study was conducted from 11 July 2022 to 20 September 2022. The study involved 264 returnee lactating mothers, with 88 classified as cases (body mass index, BMI<18.5 kg/m²) and 176 as controls (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m²). Participants were selected through simple random sampling from public health institutions. Data were collected on sociodemographic, reproductive and nutritional factors using structured questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant determinants of maternal underweight.ResultThe study identified several key determinants of underweight. Returnee lactating mothers with a short birth interval (<24 months) were significantly more likely to be underweight (adjusted OR (AOR) 4.04, 95% CI 1.68 to 9.74). Unplanned pregnancies (AOR 7.60, 95% CI 3.14 to 18.41), home deliveries (AOR 5.81, 95% CI 2.09 to 16.14) and meals frequency <3 per day (AOR 2.51, 95% CI 1.12 to 5.63) were also strongly associated with increased risk of underweight. Inadequate dietary diversity (AOR 3.92, 95% CI 1.52 to 10.15) and food insecurity (AOR 4.72, 95% CI 1.77 to 12.61) further contributed to the risk. Poor socioeconomic status was associated with a higher likelihood of being underweight (AOR 4.38, 95% CI 1.49 to 12.82).ConclusionThe study highlights significant factors contributing to maternal underweight among returnee lactating mothers. Addressing short birth intervals, unplanned pregnancies, dietary diversity and food insecurity is crucial. Policy-makers should focus on targeted interventions to improve maternal health, with special emphasis on returnee lactating mothers. Enhanced healthcare access, nutritional support and socioeconomic development are essential for mitigating underweight and improving overall health outcomes.
Correcting near vision impairment and women’s empowerment: a before-after mixed-methods study among older Zanzibari craftswomen
Authors: Omar Fatma , Othman Omar Juma , Yong Ai Chee , McConnell Emma , Mulewa Damaris , Graham Christine , Shah Kajal , Martins Michelle Fernandes , Farmer Adrianna , Graham Ronnie , Mashayo Eden , Chan Ving Fai 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveTo understand if presbyopia correction could empower older craftswomen entrepreneurs living in Zanzibar.DesignMixed-method, before-after intervention study.SettingUnguja and Pemba islands, Zanzibar.Participants209 craftswomen (weaving, tailoring and sewing, pottery and producing oil and making soaps) 40 years and older with correctable presbyopia, with no other ocular morbidities.InterventionEye health assessment and near vision spectacle correction for 6 months.Primary and secondary outcomesChange in economic, social, psychological and political empowerment (4-point Likert scale responses) before and after correction. Odds ratios were calculated to determine the likelihood of upward movement on the Likert scale. Five focus group interviews were conducted to explore the craftswomen’s daily experiences concerning vision correction and empowerment, and subsequently, narrative analysis was conducted.ResultsOf the 209 craftswomen who completed the baseline survey from 4 to 21 April 2022, 157 (75.1%) were successfully followed up from 6 to 27 October 2022. Craftswomen reported significantly greater economic, social, psychological and political empowerment in 14 out of 18 statements (77.8%) (p<0.05). Qualitative responses showed that after correction, craftswomen reported having greater autonomy in running the business and improved income, better decision-making power for their business and children, greater independence and confidence and greater participation in problem-solving for the community and appointing leaders. We did not observe a significant change in the following: ability to make decisions for their family, understanding their capabilities, ability to be elected as a leader and ability to advise government leaders.ConclusionThe correlation between presbyopia correction and empowerment among older Zanzibari craftswomen is mostly positive. Some aspects of empowerment require further investigation with an extended timeframe.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding medication splitting and crushing among the general public in Jordan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Jaradat Abdolelah , Alomari Esra'a Ali , Bayan Mohammad Fouad , Naser Abdallah Y 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundSplitting or crushing medications are used for dosage administration when a certain dose is not easily accessible. Understanding the splitting or crushing of medications is essential to guarantee safe medication administration since inappropriate handling might impact therapeutic efficacy, safety and patient outcomes.ObjectivesThis study intends to examine the practices, attitudes and knowledge of the Jordanian population regarding the splitting/crushing of medications.Study design and settingThis is a cross-sectional survey study conducted in Jordan between November 2022 and March 2023. The questionnaire tool was adapted from previous literature, and binary logistic regression analysis was used, to identify the predictors of participants’ knowledge concerning medication splitting/crushing.ParticipantsA total of 1259 participants from the general public were involved, without restrictions on gender or age.ResultsAround 22.2% of participants confirmed that tablet splitting/crushing is a useful way to reduce medication costs. 67.0% reported that they are not sure whether tablets are suitable for splitting/crushing/crushing. 75.8% reported that they refer to package leaflet information to check whether tablets are suitable for splitting/crushing. 84.8% correctly believed that scored tablets can be split, while unscored tablets cannot. 72.0% identified correctly that not all types of tablets and capsules can be split/crushed or dissolved. The mean knowledge score of study participants was 2.7 (SD: 1.5) out of 6, which is equal to 45% of the maximum attainable score and reflects a weak level of knowledge about tablet crushing. Those who hold a bachelor’s degree and have an income level of JD500–JD1000 (which is equal to US$715–US$1428) were more likely to have knowledge about tablet crushing. Around 39.2% of the participants reported that they had split or crushed tablets to reach their desired dose, of which the vast majority (82.9%) were using scored tablets.ConclusionUnderstanding of tablet-splitting and crushing techniques ought to be enhanced while encouraging prescribing practices that stress safety and well-informed decision-making. Patients should actively seek reliable sources of information, have an awareness of which tablets can be safely divided and actively engage with healthcare experts to receive appropriate guidance.
Clinical impact of customised positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy interfaces versus usual care in the treatment of patients with sleep-disordered breathing (3DPiPPIn): a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Mansell Stephanie K , Mandal Swapna , Ridout Deborah , Olsen Oliver , Gowing Francesca , Kilbride Cherry , Hilton Stephen T , Main Eleanor , Schievano Silvia 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionSleep-disordered breathing affects 1.6 million people in the UK. The recognised treatment is positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, delivered via a generic conventional interface (mask). PAP therapy improves morbidity, mortality and quality of life, but treatment effectiveness depends on interface fit and tolerance. Interface side effects include pressure ulcers, skin reactions and interface leak. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an innovative technology that can produce customised interfaces.AimsThe primary aim is to assess the impact of customised versus conventional interfaces on residual Apnoea Hypopnea Index at 6 months.Methods and analysisThis is a randomised control trial via block randomisation, minimised by age >65 and ethnicity, using a computerised random number generator. Patients with sleep-disordered breathing under the care of the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust will be recruited. Patients new to therapy will be randomised to customised interface or conventional interface for 6 months. A sample size of 160 is required for 80% power with a significance of 5%, accounting for a 20% dropout rate. Descriptive statistics will report demographics. The primary and secondary outcomes will be compared using linear regression adjusted for baseline score.Ethics and disseminationThis protocol has been approved by the Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee (REC reference: 22/SC/0405). Results will be disseminated to healthcare professionals and patients through conferences, open-access journals, newsletters, a study webpage, infographics, animations, social media and healthcare awards.ISRCTN registration number74082423.
Effect of acupuncture on quality of life in atrial fibrillation: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Meng-Tong , Shi Guang-Xia , Wang Yu , Wu Bang-Qi , Zhang Zhao-Hui , Zhao Qing-Yan , Wang Xian , Li Xue-Bin , Guo Wei-Hua , He Li , Zhang Hao-Lin , Wang Lin , Wang Xue-Wen , Tu Jian-Feng , Wang Hai-Ying , Yan Shi-Yan , Lin Ying , Li He-Wen , Liu Cun-Zhi , Wang Li-Qiong 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionAtrial fibrillation (AF) is the prevalent cardiac arrhythmia and can significantly impair the quality of life (QoL). Although catheter ablation (CA) is an established treatment for AF,post-procedural complications or perceived inadequate control of AF may diminish the QoL for some patients, potentially even to levels lower than pre-procedure. Preliminary findings from our previous pilot trial indicate that acupuncture may positively influence QoL in AF patients post-CA. This study aims to increase the sample size to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture as an adjunctive treatment to conventional medical therapy in improving QoL of patients with AF after CA.Methods and designThis multicentre randomised clinical trial will be conducted in China. A total of 146 eligible patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either the acupuncture group or the sham acupuncture group. All patients will receive standard postablation care and undergo 18 sessions of acupuncture/sham acupuncture within 12 weeks following CA, followed by a 9-month follow-up period. The primary outcome is the change in the Atrial Fibrillation Effect on Quality-of-Life (AFEQT) summary score from baseline to months 6 after CA. Secondary outcomes include the changes in the AFEQT subscale scores at months 6, the AFEQT summary and subscale score at months 3 and 12, AF burden, AF recurrence, heart rate variability, number of cardioversions, repeat CA procedures, European Heart Rhythm Association score, number of arrhythmia-related hospitalisations, average heart rate, use of Six-Dimensional Health State Short Form to assess health status, costs incurred by disease treatment, Credibility/Expectancy Questionnaire and blinded assessments. Adverse events will also be meticulously recorded throughout the trial.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval has been granted by the Ethics Committee of Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (approval no: 2020BZYLL0802) and seven other subcentres. The findings of the study results will be disseminated through presentations at scientific conferences or publications in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberChiCTR2100049323.