bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of outlet location on regulatory visits and quality compliance at private- sector retail drug outlets in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Balira Rebecca , Mshana Gerry , Tubeti Mayebe , Ndaro Roza , Hamill Heather , Hampshire Kate 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Private-sector medicine retail outlets play a crucial role in delivering essential medicines to populations in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), especially for rural areas. However, regulatory compliance and inspection of these outlets, crucial for ensuring quality, pose significant challenges, especially in remote regions. This study investigates relationships between outlet location, regulatory compliance and inspection frequency in Tanzania. Specifically, two hypotheses are tested: that private-sector medicine retail outlet in remote locations will be (a) less likely to comply with quality standards, and (b) less likely to receive timely regulatory inspection visits, than those closer to regional centres and roads.
Methods
158 private-sector medicine outlets (69 pharmacies and 89 Accredited Drug Dispensing Outlets (ADDOs)) were surveyed across four regions in Tanzania. Data were collected on location (using GPS coordinates), outlet characteristics, facilities and reported frequency of inspections. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to test the two hypotheses.
Results
Overall, fewer than 10% of outlets surveyed were fully compliant with the criteria measured. Pharmacies (predominantly located in urban areas) demonstrated levels of higher compliance than ADDOs (predominantly found in rural areas). Controlling for the pharmacy/ADDO distinction, outlets closer to regional capitals exhibited better compliance on two criteria (cleanliness and staff presentation). 59.5% of outlets reported having received at least once regulatory inspection in the preceding 12 months, which pharmacies more likely to have been inspected than ADDOs (81.2% versus 42.7% respectively).
Conclusion
The poor levels of regulatory compliance observed are worrying, given the reliance of Tanzania’s population on private-sector medicine retail outlets. The poorer levels of compliance observed in ADDOs (compared with pharmacies), and in outlets located further from regional capitals, suggests a double disadvantage for rural communities when it comes to accessing medicines from quality-assured outlets. Increasing the frequency of regulatory visits may be part of the answer, but further investment is needed to build capacity of outlets serving rural communities.
Relationship between water quality and phytoplankton distribution of aquaculture areas in a tropical lagoon
Authors: Hoang Thi My Hang , Te Minh Son , Duong Van Hieu , Luong Quang Doc , Stiers Iris , Triest Ludwig 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aquaculture activities can affect water quality and phytoplankton composition. Our study aimed to estimate phytoplankton density and composition in relation to environmental factors impacted by aquaculture. We analyzed water quality and phytoplankton from 35 sites in a tropical lagoon, including inside aquaculture ponds, at wastewater discharge points, within 300 meters of these points, and farther out in the lagoon. Measurements were taken after aquaculture activities started in March and again in July. In both periods, total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), chlorophyll-a (chl-a), and turbidity decreased from the aquaculture ponds to the farther lagoon areas. Principal component analysis showed that nutrients, turbidity, and chl-a were key factors in aquaculture ponds, while salinity, temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), and water depth influenced water quality outside the ponds. Phytoplankton density was higher in July than in March due to aquaculture characteristics. Redundancy analysis indicated that phytoplankton typical of inorganic, turbid, shallow lakes were present throughout, whereas marine phytoplankton characterized the open water area. Phytoplankton in aquaculture ponds was dominated by Oscillatoria spp., while Thalassiosira spp. dominated outside the ponds. We also identified indicator genera for two connected lagoons. Although constant water exchange prevented the identification of specific indicator phytoplankton groups for aquaculture activities, this revealed the impact of wastewater from aquaculture ponds on the natural environment in the lagoons.
Identification and potential mechanism study of a novel gastric cancer suppressor tRF-24- 6VR8K09LE9
Authors: Tang Yelan , Qi Qianyi , Jin Kangfeng , Feng Wei , Ju Shaoqing , Jing Rongrong , Zong Wei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

One of the most common gastrointestinal tumors is gastric cancer (GC), which has a high lethality and a poor prognosis. Recently, it was discovered that mature tRNAs, which are expressed differently in a variety of malignancies, give rise to a novel class of tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs). In this study, we investigated the role of short RNAs produced from tRNA in GC and possible therapeutic uses. edgeR was used to screen the differentially expressed tsRNAs from the TCGA database and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to verify the levels of tsRNAs in GC samples. tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 down-regulated in GC was confirmed by detecting serum samples from 114 patients with gastric cancer, 40 patients with gastritis and 100 normal controls. The Chi-square test displayed that tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 was highly related to differentiation grade (P=0.029), T-stage (P=0.036), lymph node status (P=0.036), TNM staging (P<0.0001), and neurological/vascular invasion (P=0.033).The ROC curve indicated that tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 is more effective than the current diagnostic markers for GC. Furthermore, mechanistic studies verified that tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 affected the malignant progression of GC through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In conclusion, tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 can be served as a molecular marker for early GC auxiliary diagnosis. Over-expression of tRF-24-6VR8K09LE9 inhibits the malignant progression of GC, which may provide a new strategy for the adjuvant treatment of GC.
Facilitating circular economy development: Community participation in waste bank initiatives at public transport hubs
Authors: Ulhasanah Nova , Suhardono Sapta , Lee Chun-Hung , Faza Afina Sabila , Zahir Alisha , Suryawan I Wayan Koko 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing community willingness to participate (WTP) in waste bank initiatives at public transport hubs, emphasizing their role in advancing smart city waste management and circular economy development. By employing a comprehensive survey and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the research identifies four key adaptability that significantly shape WTP and behavior control: interest level, ability to cope, ability to plan, and ability to learn. The findings reveal that enhancing community interest through digital platforms and interactive technologies, providing adequate waste management resources, involving the community in the planning process, and promoting continuous education are essential for fostering participation. The study demonstrates that leveraging digital platforms to disseminate real-time information and educational content can significantly boost community interest and engagement. Additionally, equipping communities with necessary tools and resources, such as accessible sorting facilities and professional assistance, enhances their ability to manage waste effectively. Involving community members in the planning process ensures that waste management strategies are tailored to local needs and preferences, thereby increasing their effectiveness. The study offers implications for policymakers and urban planners, providing a framework for developing sustainable waste management practices within public transport systems. By fostering a culture of sustainability and resilience, these practices contribute to creating eco-friendly urban environments, aligning with the broader goals of smart city initiatives and circular economy principles.
Short-Term Efficacy Analysis of Glucocorticoid Combined with Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) in the Treatment of Acute Exacerbation of Neuromyelitis Optica
Authors: Huang Yuhui , Xie Ying , Liu Xi , Wen Yangchun , He Jinzhao , Yang Shaoming 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: We aimed to assess whether the combination of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and high-dose intravenous corticosteroid therapy (IVMP) offers superior benefits compared to IVMP alone in managing acute attacks of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted including 71 acute attacks from 63 NMOSD patients treated with IVMP (1000 mg/day for 5 days) combined with IVIG (0.4 g/kg/day for 5 days) and 64 attacks from 56 patients treated with IVMP alone. The Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months, expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores, and percentage of improvement in EDSS score by seizure type (optic neuritis or myelitis) were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, subgroup analyses were performed on EDSS scores related to visual acuity, pyramidal function, sensory function, and bladder/rectal function.
Results: Both IVMP and the combination of IVMP+IVIG effectively reduced EDSS scores during acute episodes of NMOSD. No significant difference was observed in the mRS score at 3 months or in the remission improvement of EDSS score by seizure type between the two groups. However, a statistically significant difference in the improvement of initial pyramidal function scores was noted in patients with myelitis treated with the combination therapy.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that for NMOSD patients with myelitis, the addition of IVIG to IVMP therapy may provide a certain degree of benefit in terms of motor function recovery. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Orphanhood in Manhiça district, Mozambique: causes, trends, and impacts on living arrangements and migration over 24 years of continuous demographic surveillance (1998-2021)
Authors: Nhacolo Ariel , Sacoor Charfudin , Jamisse Edgar , Matsena Teodimiro , Hunguana Aura , Macete Eusébio , Saúte Francisco , Munguambe Khátia , Bassat Quique , Garcia-Basteiro Alberto , Mandomando Inacio , Augusto Orvalho , Arnaldo Carlos , Alonso Pedro 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Orphanhood is among the major socio-economic challenges in low- and middle-income countries, but measuring the trends, causes, and consequences of orphanhood on children in these countries has been difficult due to lack of adequate data. This study aimed to provide insights into the trends in prevalence, incidence, causes and consequences of orphanhood on living arrangements and migration of children in Manhiça district, Mozambique.
Methods
This study presents a descriptive analysis of annual prevalence and incidence of orphans, leveraging data from a Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) that followed 225,921 children < 18 years during 1998–2021 in Manhiça. It also presents cause-specific proportions of orphans using verbal autopsies. The impacts of orphanhood on living arrangements and migration of children were examined by comparing indices such as household size and composition, and annual rates of migration by orphan status.
Results
The results show that 8.1% of children had lost at least one biological parent before age 18 years. There were more paternal orphans (51.5%) than maternal orphans (42.1%), and double orphans (6.3%). The prevalence and incidence of orphanhood increased and decreased - with prevalence increasing from 1.8% in 1998 to 6.3% in 2021, after peaking to 9.2% in 2011–2012, a trend that appears to reflect the trend in adult mortality in Manhiça, where the 45q15 increased from 0.40 in 1998 to over 0.65 during 2002–2008, before decreasing in 2009–2021. HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis were the leading causes of orphanhood, with 38.8% of maternal orphans and 30.8% of paternal orphans; followed by other communicable diseases (16.2% and 15.0% of maternal and paternal orphans, respectively). Sixty-seven percent of orphans lived in female-headed households compared to 19.7% of non-orphans. Orphans had higher rates of migration (108.5 per 1,000 person-years) than non-orphans (76.0), particularly among maternal orphans and infants.
Conclusions
These findings quantify and describe the burden of orphanhood and its evolution over 2.5 decades and suggest a need for targeted interventions to address the socio-economic challenges stemming from orphanhood in Manhiça and, likely, in similar contexts. Furthermore, the study provides crucial insights for future research using this HDSS data, e.g. the assessment of the implications of orphanhood on child health, survival, and marriage.
Comprehensive multi-omics analysis reveals the molecular mechanism of prostate cancer recurrence
Authors: li lin , Zhao Yawei , Ma Liujiang , Tang Lei , Liu Jiaxin , Li qianyue 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Accurately detecting prostate cancer recurrence currently poses a challenge for clinicians. In addition, biochemical recurrence (BCR) is a crucial risk factor for clinical recurrence and metastasis. The understanding of genes involved in BCR and their mechanisms is limited. Therefore, this study aims to comprehensively explore the genes associated with BCR and their biological mechanisms in prostate cancer using bioinformatics techniques.
Methods
Data from 473 non-recurrence (n = 412) and recurrence (n = 61) samples, were obtained from the TCGA public database. The key genes between groups were identified using the Limma package. Mendelian Randomization (MR) was employed to screen for key genes, describing their eQTL-positive outcomes in causality. Relationships between key genes and immune infiltration, immune cells, drug sensitivity, and signaling pathways were analyzed. Further, the enrichment of transcriptome gene sets, prediction of transcription factors, and specific situations in single cells were evaluated.
Results
In all, 486 DEGs were found, comprising 380 upregulated and 106 downregulated genes. MR identified DENND4B, KCNK6, MPHOSPH6, SPNS1, SYTL3, and ZNF419 as pivotal genes. Multi-omics analysis suggested these genes as predictive and diagnostic markers for BCR.
Conclusion
This study identified prostate cancer recurrence-related DEGs and their functions using bioinformatics and MR analysis, offering significant clinical implications for accurate prediction and assessment of prostate cancer recurrence. It also provided effective targets for managing recurrent prostate cancer.
Distribution Characteristics of Fluorine in the Soil of Brick Tea Plantations in Chibi and the Sources of Pollution
Authors: Li Quan , Li Yang , Liu Li , Li Zhigang , Chen Yi , Wang Qian , Xia Guoping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Tea plants are known hyperaccumulators of fluorine and accumulate quantities of fluorine proportional to the concentration of fluorine in the environment. The primary source of fluorine in tea is water-soluble fluorine compounds in the soil, which tea plants readily absorb and accumulate in the leaves. Analyses of soil samples indicate that the parent material of soil significantly influences the total fluorine content. The distribution of fluorine in the surface soil of different soil types within the tea gardens follows this order: brown red soil > young red soil > yellow red soil. Generally, fluorine content in the surface soil of the planting area displays a decreasing trend from north to south. Under acidic conditions, pH variations minimally impact the concentration of water-soluble fluorine in the soil. Exogenous sample analyses reveal that the primary sources of soil fluorine are geological formations and the prolonged and intensive use of foreign and Western compound fertilizers. Atmospheric deposition, along with water used for irrigation and pesticides in tea gardens, do not constitute significant sources of fluorine in the surface soil. To mitigate fluorine levels in brick tea, it is advisable for tea gardens to increase the use of organic and nitrogen-based fertilizers while decreasing reliance on compound fertilizers.
Relationship between trajectory of coagulation index, duration of coagulation disorder, and prognosis in patients with sepsis in ICU
Authors: Chang Yingjie , Rao Shuke , Zhou Tianbao , Xu Guihua , Xie Chenli 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Platelet count (PLT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR) are routinely monitored during ICU hospitalization. Nonetheless, the impact of the longitudinal PLT, APTT, and PT-INR trajectories in patients with sepsis remains unclear. Furthermore, the association between duration of coagulation disorders and prognosis in sepsis is unclear.
Methods
Based on the MIMIC-IV database, we applied group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) to identify PLT, APTT, and PT-INR trajectories among ICU patients with sepsis and explored the relationship between these trajectories and 28-day mortality rates. Secondly, we determined the presence of SIC based on daily PLT, PT-INR, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores in patients. And, by using COX proportional hazard model we assessed the association between the duration of coagulation disorders and prognosis.
Results
2159 sepsis patients were included and divided into six PLT, APTT, and PT-INR trajectory groups. We found that patients with persistent thrombocytopenia, prolonged APTT, and elevated PT-INR had the highest risk of death and were independently associated with a poor prognosis (HR 4.60 [95% CI:2.98–7.10]). Moreover, persistent SIC within five days of ICU admission was an independent predictor of 28-day mortality compared to patients without SIC (HR:1.79[95% CI:1.33–2.40]).
Conclusion
PLT, APTT, and PT-INR trajectories have the potential to distinguish sepsis subphenotypes with varying mortality risks. Using GBTM, we can better comprehend the heterogeneity of coagulation function.
Analysis of the basins of attraction generated by a pseudo Newton-Raphson method iterating over complex order derivatives
Authors: Moratis Kimon 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze visually the evolution and dynamic behavior of the basins of attraction generated by a pseudo Newton-Raphson method, where the first order derivative is replaced by fractional derivatives of complex order. The functions of choice are polynomials as they have been studied extensively in the past and the dynamical analysis of iterative methods based on them is rather straightforward. The boundary sets are calculated by using both the analytical form of the derivatives and their approximation from the definition of Grunwald. The generated basins of attraction are colored according to the required number of iterations for the method to converge and the corresponding roots of the studied polynomials. In the last section, an analysis of the boundary sets generated from imaginary order derivatives is presented.
Microfragmented adipose tissue for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip: preliminary results
Authors: AKKEMİK Ümit , ALİYEV Dostali , AŞIK İbrahim 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Bacground
Purpose: Hip osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative pro-cess where continued cartilage breakdown results from mechanical overload, causing secondary bony and syno-vial changes. There is currently no cure for OA, but there are many treatments and approaches to managing the long- term symptoms of this disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of intraarticular microfragmented adipose tissue (MAT) injection in the patients with chronic pain due to early-stage hip OA.
Methods: The medical records of 11 patients with a diagnosis of hip OA that did not respond to conservative treatment and who underwent MAT injection were reviewed retrospectively. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores and WOMAC scores, and drug use were recorded before and after the procedure 1 and 3 months of follow-up. Then all data were statistically analyzed.
Results:The VAS and WOMAC scores before the procedure were 7±1 and 46.63±4.48. The mean VAS score at 1 and 3 months after the procedure was 3.91± 2.70 and 3.55±2.94, respectively. The mean WOMAC score at 1 and 3 months after the procedure was 26.36±12.20 and 25.99±12.61, respectively. It was determined that 54.2% (n=6) of the patients were determined not to use any analgesic drugs at the third month of follow-up and 18.2 (n=2) had a decrease in drug use compared to the pre-procedure. No serious complication was found in any patient.
Conclusions:Our study shows that MAT is an effective treatment in the short to medium term in patients with early-stage hip OA. Randomized controlled trials with a longer follow-up and more patients are needed regarding MAT injection in chronic pain due to hip OA.
Polypharmacy among Adults Receiving Outpatient Care at a General Hospital in a Municipality, Northern Uganda
Authors: Oyoo Nixson , Musoke David , Nantale Ritah , Lapat Jolly Joe , Opee Jimmyy , Ebbs Daniel S. , Bongomin Felix 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Polypharmacy is a major safety concern. It’s a risk factor for adverse health outcomes, higher use of medical services and additional costs. Despite being a well-recognized problem, there is limited data regarding the prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy among outpatients in Northern Uganda. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy among adults receiving outpatient care at Kitgum General Hospital, Uganda.
Methods
This was a facility-based cross-sectional study; adults receiving outpatient care at Kitgum General Hospital between October and December 2023 were recruited. Polypharmacy was defined as the concurrent use of five or more medicines. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information about the number of medicines a person takes concurrently and the participant’s demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the study sample. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the factors associated with polypharmacy.
Results
A total of 422 participants, with a mean age of 43.0 ± 18.3 years were enrolled. More than a third of the participants (35.3%, n = 149) had chronic medical conditions. Overall, 43.4% (n = 183) of participants had polypharmacy. Among the participants who had polypharmacy, the majority were taking antibiotics (91.8%, n = 168) and analgesics (77.6%, n = 142). More than a third (34.4%, n = 145) of the participants reported use of over-the-counter drugs. Having a chronic illness (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 5.93, 95% CI: 3.10-11.34, p < 0.001), and use of over-the-counter drugs (AOR: 16.7; 95% CI: 8.87–31.42, p = 0.009) were associated with higher odds of polypharmacy. Herbal medicine use was associated with 64% lower odds of polypharmacy (AOR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.17–0.77, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The prevalence of polypharmacy among adult outpatients is high. Chronic illness, use of over-the-counter drugs and intake of herbal medicines have significant impacts on polypharmacy among adult outpatients. Priority should be put in place to mitigate polypharmacy among outpatients in Uganda.