bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Chronic Kidney Disease among Adult Diabetic Patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital,Northeast Ethiopia,2024: An institution-based case control study
Authors: Wolle Ali Mohammed , Tsegaye Gebiyaw Wudie , Azene Abebaw Gedef 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Chronic kidney disease is a condition where high blood glucose or blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys and reduces their function. It develops slowly; so many people do not realize they have it until it has reached an advanced stage. Chronic kidney disease can be prevented by controlling blood glucose and blood pressure, avoiding harmful medications, and changing lifestyle. Though prior studies were conducted on chronic kidney disease among adult diabetics in the Amhara region, possible determinant such as glycated hemoglobin level was not assessed.
Objective
To identify the determinants of Chronic Kidney Disease Among Adult Diabetic Patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia,2024.
Methods
We conducted institutional-based unmatched case-control study between January-1 to June-30-2024. Cases were adult diabetic patient with chronic kidney disease and controls were adult diabetic patient without chronic kidney. All cases were included while systematic random sampling was used to select controls. Data from interview, laboratory and clinical records were collected and entered into Epi info version 7.2, then exported to Statistical Package for Social Science version 27 for analysis. Multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify determinants of chronic kidney disease and a p-value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.
Results
A total of 95 cases and 190 controls were recruited in the study. The median (interquartile range) age of cases and controls were 62 (67 − 45) and 37.5 (61-26.75) years respectively. The study revealed that poor glycemic control (HbA1c) (AOR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.63–6.81), age ≥ 60 years (AOR: 2.70, 95% CI: 1.36–5.37), presence of albuminuria (AOR: 4.83, 95% CI: 2.19–10.73), analgesics used (AOR: 2.43, 95% CI: 1.26–4.70), and duration of diabetes greater than or equal to 10 years (AOR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.30–4.88) had statistically significant association with chronic kidney disease among adult diabetic patients.
Conclusion
The study finding indicated that poor glycemic control, older age, positive albuminuria, use of analgesics, and long duration of diabetes were significantly associated with chronic kidney disease among adult diabetic patients. We recommend that individualized glycemic target for older age and long duration of diabetic patients.
Evaluating Usability and Feasibility of Implementing a Novel Cancer Mapping Tool
Authors: Gerdes Erin Wissler , Cai Jinyi , Mahoney Carly , Brown Grant , Clark Jacob , Charlton Mary , Koylu Caglar , Roberts Emily , McKelvey Brittany , Wiggins Charles , Meisner Angela , Christian W. Jay , Huang Bin , Oleson Jacob , Nash Sarah 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Cancer registries are often asked to present cancer data for small geographic areas to inform and facilitate targeted interventions and prevention programs. However, it is challenging to compute and visualize reliable cancer estimates for areas with small case counts and populations to support cancer control planning.
Methods: We used a Bayesian hierarchical model that borrows strength from neighboring areas and over time to produce cancer estimates for small areas. We developed a visual analytics platform to present these estimates in interactive graphics that demonstrate risk in small areas. In a user-centered design process, development of the tool was informed by cancer registry and public health professionals through focus groups and surveys.
Results: The Cancer Analytics and Maps for Small Areas tool (CAMSA) provides age-adjusted cancer incidence and mortality rates and risk probabilities for eight cancers at the county and ZIP-code tabulation area (ZCTA) levels. It allows the user to identify cancer hotpots, including among sub-groups defined by sex and race/ethnicity. Potential end users were enthusiastic about the opportunity to implement CAMSA within their practice, emphasizing the tool’s potential for increasing collaborative opportunities at local and state levels. Suggestions for improvement included adding map overlays such as additional cancer risk variables and incorporating functionalities like exportable data tables.
Conclusions: CAMSA presents cancer rate and risk estimates for small geographic areas where they may have previously been suppressed. Through our user-informed design process, we developed statistical models and data visualizations to support the needs of an array of potential end users.
Mitochondrial pathogenic variants in Whole Exome Sequencing data: from screening to diagnosis and follow-up
Authors: Skoczylas Sebastian , Płoszaj Tomasz , Gadzalska Karolina , Gorządek Monika , Jakiel Paulina , Juścińska Ewa , Malarska Maria , Traczyk-Borszyńska Magdalena , Biezynska Hanna , Rychlik Magdalena , Pastorczak Agata , Zmysłowska Agnieszka 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Mutations in mitochondrial DNA play a crucial role in several diseases, but interpreting the clinical significance of mitochondrial DNA variants is challenging due to heteroplasmy, age-related loss of variants and evolving phenotypes. The aim of study was to identify mitochondrial pathogenic variants and look for association correlations with specific phenotypes for both known and new variants. We used a Python pipeline to analyse exome sequencing data from 418 patients (median age: 15 years; 52.9% males and 47.1% females), mostly diagnosed with neurological disorders, developmental and intellectual disabilities, behavioural and sensory disorders, cardiovascular and metabolic abnormalities, renal diseases and others. Screening identified 1,000 unique variants with heteroplasmy levels greater than 10% and 394 variants with 1–10% heteroplasmy, excluding hypervariable regions. Among these variants, four confirmed pathogenic variants were detected according to MITOMAP (m.1555A > G, m.3243A > G, m.9035T > C and m.11778G > A). The application of pathogenicity and frequency criteria led to the identification of nine variants with low levels of heteroplasmy, which were confirmed by next-generation sequencing. Finally, one of them, the variant m.15897G > A, was recognised as likely pathogenic. Our study highlights the complexity of diagnosing mitochondrial diseases associated with mtDNA mutations and emphasises the need for a comprehensive genotype-phenotype approach to correctly identify variants.
Barriers and Facilitators to Patient Utilization of Non-Communicable Disease Services in Primary Healthcare Facilities in Nepal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mali Sushmita , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Nakarmi Chandani Singh , Shrestha Soniya , Dhakal Aarati , Bharati Alina , Bishwokarma Anupama , Adhikari Asmita , Poudel Bikram , Rai Binuka Kulung , Manandhar Sangita , KC Surakshya , Timalsena Dinesh , Silwal Sashi , Dhimal Meghnath , Baral Phanindra Prasad , Teufel Felix , Bhattarai Sanju , Spiegelman Donna , Shrestha Archana 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background The Nepalese government endorsed and implemented the Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Interventions (PEN) by the World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent and manage four major non-communicable diseases (NCDs): cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, cancers, and chronic respiratory diseases. This study explored barriers and facilitators to patient utilization of NCD services at primary healthcare facilities in Nepal.Methodology: We conducted a qualitative study with a 35 purposive sample of patients living with one or more NCDs (hypertension, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD/ asthma) who sought healthcare at primary healthcare facilities in 14 randomly selected districts in seven provinces in Nepal that implemented PEN. Trained qualitative researchers conducted in-depth interviews in-person in a private setting using a semi-structured interview guide developed based on the Health Belief Model in the local language. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded inductively and deductively, and analyzed by a framework approach using Dedoose software.Results From the perspectives of patients, key facilitators of service utilization encompassed free medicines, low-cost services, geographical and financial accessibility, less waiting time, positive interactions with health service providers, experiencing improvements in their health conditions, and support from family and peers. Barriers to utilizing services included inadequate health services (e.g., lack of medications and equipment), inaccessibility and affordability, inadequate health-related information from health service providers, low knowledge of NCD care, and lack of reminders or follow ups.Conclusion Enhancing NCD service utilization is potentially attainable through interventions that address patients’ knowledge, self-motivation, and misconceptions. Furthermore, strengthening the availability and accessibility of crucial services such as laboratory investigations, medications, equipment, and the patient-provider relationship is crucial for sustainable implementation of PEN.
Pharmacovigilance analysis of drug-induced hypofibrinogenemia using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Wen Xiao , Cai Le , Gao Ao , Fu An , Guo Daihong , Zhu Man 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Drug-induced hypofibrinogenemia (DIHF) has received increasing scrutiny; however, the specific drugs involved remain poorly characterized. Hypofibrinogenemia can have significant clinical implications, including increased bleeding risks.
Aim
This study aimed to utilize the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) to identify and analyze drugs frequently implicated in drug-induced hypofibrinogenemia.
Method
A disproportionality analysis was conducted using FAERS data from January 2004 to March 2024. Various statistical tools were used, including the Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency metrics, and Bayesian confidence propagation neural network.
Results
The analysis included 17,627,340 cases involving 52,373,206 adverse events, with 1,661 cases identified as hypofibrinogenemia, representing just 0.0032% of the total FAERS reports. The top five drugs associated with DIHF by case number were methotrexate (124 cases), tigecycline (119 cases), tocilizumab (100 cases), pegaspargase (83 cases), and alteplase (57 cases). The drugs ranked by signal strength included eravacycline (ROR 2173.84, 95% CI 1208.80-3909.30), tigecycline (ROR 747.34, 95% CI 619.03-902.24), crotalidae polyvalent immune Fab (ROR 407.67, 95% CI 291.07-570.99), pegaspargase (ROR 216.06, 95% CI 173.15-269.61), and asparaginase (ROR 184.93, 95% CI 132.18-258.72).
Conclusion
This analysis of FAERS data identified 52 drugs associated with hypofibrinogenemia, many of which do not mention this risk in their prescribing information. These findings demonstrate the need for improved pharmacovigilance and may serve as a reference for the prevention and early intervention of DIHF.
A Novel Mitochondrial Quality Regulation Gene Signature for Anticipating Prognosis, TME, and Therapeutic Response in LUAD by Multi-Omics Analysis And Experimental Verification
Authors: Zeng Lijun , Wu Sixuan , Li Zhimin , Tang yuanbin , Tan yeru , Liang Renji , Li Yuehua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the predominant form of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Mitochondrial quality-related genes (MQRGs) contribute to the genesis and advancement of tumors. Despite advances in LUAD treatment and detection, early diagnostic biomarkers are still lacking, and the roles of MQRGs in LUAD are not well understood.
Methods
We extensively examined transcriptome and clinical data from TCGA and GEO databases to discover differentially expressed MQRGs. Utilizing the LASSO algorithm and multivariate COX regression, a predictive risk model was created. Kaplan-Meier study and ROC curves were implemented to predict patient prognosis, resulting in a new Mitochondrial Quality Regulation Gene Signature for accurate prognosis forecasting. R software and packages facilitated statistical, consensus cluster, survival, Cox regression, Lasso regression, and tumor microenvironment analyses. Model-related gene expression was measured using RT-qPCR, single-cell sequencing, HPA data, and UNCAN data.
Results
We created a concise risk model using four MQRGs (STRAP, SHCBP1, PKP2, and CRTAC1) to forecast overall survival in LUAD patients. High-risk patients experienced significantly lower survival rates. Functional analysis linked these MQRGs to alpha-linolenic acid metabolism pathways. Moreover, the tumor immune microenvironment supports previous findings that higher CD8 + T cell infiltration improves LUAD outcomes. Analysis of different risk scores showed increased activated memory T-cell CD4, suggesting its activation is crucial for LUAD prognosis. Nomograms were generated with clinical data and the MQRGscore model. mRNA and IHC analysis manifested significantly upregulated STRAP, SHCBP1, and PKP2 expression and mitigated CRTAC1 expression in the LUAD contrasted with normal lung tissue. qRT-PCR confirmed these findings, aligning with TCGA data.
Conclusions
We created a succinct MQRGs risk model to ascertain the LUAD patient's prognosis, potentially offering a novel method for diagnosing and treating this condition.
Agrarian Diet Improves Metabolic Health in HIV-positive Men with Prevotella-Rich Microbiomes: Results from a Randomized Trial
Authors: Lozupone Catherine , O'Connor John , Fouquier Jennifer , Neff Charles , Sterrett John , Marden Tyson , Fiorillo Suzanne , Siebert Janet , Schneider Jennifer , Nusbacher Nichole , Noe Amy , Higgins Blair , Higgins Janine , Campbell Thomas , Palmer Brent 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact a high-fiber/low-fat agrarian diet (AD) on inflammation and metabolic outcomes in HIV positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Since the gut microbiome of MSM has been shown to have a striking resemblance to individuals in agrarian cultures, including being Prevotella-rich and Bacteroides-poor, we hypothesized that they would have particularly strong health benefits from consumption of a diet matched to their microbiome type. Sixty-six participants, including 36 HIV-positive MSM (HIV(+)MSM), 21 HIV-negative MSM, and 9 HIV negative men who have sex with women were randomized to either an AD or a high-fat western diet (WD) for four weeks. The AD reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in HIV(+)MSM, with more significant reductions predicted by Prevotella-rich/Bacteroides-poor microbiomes at baseline. The AD also reduced T cell exhaustion and pro-inflammatory intermediate monocytes and altered host transcription in the colonic mucosa. Our findings suggest that tailoring diet interventions to baseline microbiome type can help promote metabolic health in HIV(+)MSM.
Plant community structure and diversity along an elevation gradient in a threatened equatorial Pacific lower montane cloud forest
Authors: Roponen Sari , Moscoso Alejandra , Báez Selene , Ståhl Bertil 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Elevational gradients in tropical montane forest have profound effects on plant species diversity, composition and forest structure. Studies exploring how different plant functional groups vary in diversity and composition along elevational gradients are rare, which limits our understanding of community-wide variation in tropical montane landscapes. We explored how tree and non-tree plants (climbers, epiphytes, epiphytic ferns, hemi-epiphytes, herbaceous ferns, herbs, shrubs and treelets) varied in abundance, species richness, diversity and composition along a ~ 400 m elevation gradient in a lower montane forest in western Ecuador. Results indicate that elevation affect mainly patterns of species composition of the tree and non-tree plant communities, but has little effect on other aspects of the plant community, including forest structure, species richness and diversity. We hypothesize that cloud bank formation at 500 m elevation was the main abiotic driver of shifts in plant species composition along our elevation gradient. Interspecific interactions may also have affected differences in the distribution of certain plant groups (e.g., climbers and hemi-epiphytes). Overall, this study shows that plant communities with distinct species composition occur along the elevation gradient, but that these communities have equivalent species richness, diversity and forest structure. Several endemic plant species were identified at our study site, highlighting the urgent need to protect these unique montane forest ecosystems.
DFT investigation of Schiff-base and pyridine derivatives mixed ligands in metal transition complexes: Electronic structures, EDA-NOCV analysis and absorption spectra simulation
Authors: Boukehil Ghouzala , Zerizer Mohamed Amie , Mecheri Sabri , Zouchoune Bachir 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

DFT calculations using both BP86 and B3LYP functionals have been carried out on a series of complexes of the types [M(L1)(L2)]2+, [M(L2)2]2+, [M(L2)(L3)2]2+ and [M((L3)4]2+ (M = Ni, Pd, Cu, Zn and L1 = N-(4methoxybenzylidene) isonicotihydrazone bidentate Schiff base, L2 = 2,2’-bipyridine and L3 = pyridine). A complete rationalization of bonding is provided of these kinds of complexes, where the predicted structures provide to the M(II) cations a perfect square planar geometry for Ni(II), Pd(II) and Cu(II) and a tetrahedral one for Zn(II). Large HOMO-LUMO gaps are calculated for all optimized structures of singlet spin state except for Cu(II) with a doublet spin state; suggesting good chemical stabilities The TD-DFT theoretical study performed on the optimized geometries permitted us to predict the UV–Vis spectra and to pinpoint accurately the spectral positions and the nature of the different electronic transitions according to their molecular orbital localization, hence, the available experimental UV–Vis spectra are compared to our findings. The electronic spectra obtained in ethanol solvent predict more important red shifts for the complexed species compared to those of free ligands as consequence of coordination between the metal cation and different ligands.
Primary Care and Care Continuity in the Context of a Health Crisis: Lessons Learned from the Brazilian Reality
Authors: Viana Mônica Martins Oliveira , Garcia Mariana Tarricone , Costa Maria Izabel Sanches , Duarte Lígia Schiavon , Sala Arnaldo , Pontes Barbara Martins , Fernandez Michelle , Viana Mônica Martins Oliveira 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Primary health care (PHC) is essential for achieving universal health coverage, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where it has been associated with curbing health inequalities and providing financial protection. It is distinguished from other care levels by its essential attributes: longitudinality, first-contact care, comprehensiveness, and care coordination across the network. PHCs played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, and providing continuous care while coordinating testing and contact tracing was challenging. It is necessary to adapt its operations to ensure care. This study explores the influence of essential PHC attributes and local organizational strategies on care continuity during the pandemic.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with health managers from municipalities in the state of São Paulo in a sample stratified by population size. The survey was applied in 259 municipalities, and the weighted analysis considered 553 municipalities. We evaluated indicators related to care continuity in PHC, convergence with essential PHC attributes, local strategies such as telecare, and the adaptation of PHC units (UBSs) to an exclusive COVID-19 PHC service. Statistical analyses included Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression.
Results: Care continuity in PHC was significantly associated with convergence of essential PHC attributes (r=0.453, p=0.000), PHC coverage, investment in telecare, and the transformation of UBS to care exclusively for COVID-19 patients. The regression model revealed that these variables significantly influenced care maintenance during the pandemic, and convergence of essential PHC attributes was the most relevant factor.
Conclusion: Convergence in the essential attributes of comprehensive PHC was crucial for care continuity during the pandemic. Owing to the essential attributes of comprehensive PHC, continued strengthening of PHC is necessary to ensure the resilience of health systems, and we recommend future studies on the implementation of the essential attributes of comprehensive PHC.
Conceptualizing and testing fidelity-adaptation in the context of developing a digital intervention for depression from an evidence-based in-person format
Authors: Chau Leena W , Murphy Jill K , Nguyen Vu Cong , Tran Hai , Minas Harry , Lam Raymond W , Hayashi Kanna , Nguyen Xuan , Krebs Emanuel , O'Neil John 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Digital interventions, such as smartphone apps, have emerged as a promising way to better meet growing population mental health needs. The evidence for many of these digital interventions is currently limited, especially in the context of those adapted from in-person formats. Our team developed a digital depression intervention (VMood) in Vietnam. VMood, adapted from an evidence-based in-person intervention (SSM) developed in Canada, uses cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) principles with remote coaching by non-specialist providers.
Fidelity-adaptation is a major tension in implementation science. Fidelity is the degree an intervention is delivered as intended. Conversely, adaptations are sometimes made to address specific contexts. This paper aims to identify key elements of fidelity-adaptation – the degree VMood is consistent with the theoretical aspects of the SSM intervention and practical aspects of implementing digitally in the Vietnamese setting.
Methods
This study uses Dimensions from Dane and Schneider’s Implementation Fidelity Evaluation Framework: adherence (D1), quality (D2), participant responsiveness (D3), and program differentiation (D4). Discourse data from team meetings explored elements that must remain intact (D1) and those requiring adaptation to fit the digital modus and local cultural context (D4). Non-specialist providers with SSM knowledge and app users from Vietnam tested VMood. Experts familiar with CBT from Vietnam and Canada provided theoretical feedback. Interviews or focus groups were conducted with all participants to gain insights into (D1-4). All qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.
Results
Key findings were: Adherence (D1): participants agreed that VMood captures the important theoretical content from SSM, with the same content being delivered in a different format and Program Differentiation (D4): participants presented a variety of adaptation suggestions unique for the digital format to strengthen VMood’s acceptability, including keeping the app simple by reducing the amount of text; incorporating more dynamic content (e.g., animations, videos) to increase engagement; and including more culturally appropriate scenarios.
Conclusions
The updated VMood intervention is currently being implemented in a randomized controlled trial across eight provinces in Vietnam. With the global increase in digital health services adapted from in-person delivery, understanding how to balance fidelity with necessary adaptations is important both theoretically and practically.