bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Prevalence of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Insights from a Population-Based Study
Authors: Gupte Sanjay , Gawali Harshada , Jawale Shruti , Pujari Nivedita , Shah Sarjan , Arora Preeti 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
It is estimated that around 132,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in India, leading to 74,000 deaths. Variations in the prevalence and distribution of HPV infection exist based on geography and ethnicity, underscoring the necessity for region-specific data on HPV infection and genotype prevalence.
Aim
The study aims to analyze HPV high-risk strain infections across various age groups of women and investigate the evolving prevalence of HPV within the study population.
Subjects and Methods
HPV infection, with a specific focus on high-risk types, was identified through the application of PCR-based technology in a cohort of 3009 women who visited Gupte Hospital. Confirmation through Sanger sequencing was conducted for samples that tested positive for HPV. We performed age-wise and year-wise HPV prevalence analysis.
Results
Among the 3009 samples, a total of 68 HPV high-risk positive infections were observed. Prominent HPV high-risk strains HPV 16 and HPV 33 were observed, followed by HPV 18 and HPV 51. Women in the age group 30–40 were prominently prone to HPV infection. The rate of incidence also increased over 3 years in the study population.
Conclusion
It underscores the imperative to enhance awareness and screening for HPV in the Indian demographic to enable early detection. This has implications for improved treatment and timely management, mitigating the risk of developing cancers associated with HPV.
Efficacy and Safety of Sublingual Versus Vaginal Misoprostol for Labor Induction in Pregnancies with a Live Fetus: A Randomized Controlled Trial at Mulago Hospital, Uganda
Authors: Moshi Lynn , Kyejo Willbroad , Matillya Nancy , Samji Sunil , Kashesya Jolly Beyeza , Namusoke Fatuma 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background:
Labor induction involves stimulating uterine contractions to achieve delivery before spontaneous labor onset. Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue, is effective for this purpose, commonly administered orally or vaginally. However, studies comparing the efficacy and safety of sublingual versus vaginal misoprostol are lacking. This study aims to compare these two routes for labor induction in pregnant women with a live fetus at Mulago Hospital, Uganda.
Methods:
A randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Mulago National Referral Hospital Labor Suite in Kampala, Uganda. Pregnant women at a gestational age of ≥ 34 completed weeks, with a live fetus, scheduled for labor induction, were included after informed consent. Exclusions were made for patients with known gross fetal anomalies, multiple pregnancies, and misoprostol allergy. A total of 156 women were randomly assigned to two groups: vaginal (80) and sublingual (76) misoprostol administration. Participants were followed through labor and delivery. Data was entered and analyzed using Epidata version 2.1b and STATA version 11.
Results:
The study showed comparable demographic and clinical characteristics between the sublingual and vaginal misoprostol groups. The mean time from induction to vaginal delivery was 12.79 ± 9.72 hours for the sublingual group and 13.30 ± 8.31 hours for the vaginal group (P = .37). A higher percentage of participants in the vaginal group delivered within 24 hours compared to the sublingual group (49.5% vs. 40.9%, P = .98). Vaginal delivery rates were 86.8% in the sublingual group and 88.8% in the vaginal group (P = .71). The rate of failed induction was 25% in the sublingual group and 22.5% in the vaginal group (P = .71). There were no cases of uterine hyperstimulation in either group. Intrapartum complications (fever, nausea/vomiting, fetal distress/meconium-stained liquor) and birth outcomes did not differ significantly between the groups. However, there was a significant difference in 1-minute APGAR scores < 7 between the sublingual and vaginal groups (P = .006).
Conclusion:
This study supports the use of sublingual misoprostol as a viable alternative to vaginal administration for labor induction in resource-limited settings like Mulago Hospital, Uganda. Future research could explore larger, multi-center trials to further validate these findings and investigate long-term maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with sublingual misoprostol use.
Epidemiology and comorbidity of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in Poland – a nationwide study
Authors: Żuber Zbigniew , Podwójcic Krzysztof , Szeląg Mateusz , Krajewska-Włodarczyk Magdalena , Batko Krzysztof , Orleański Michał , Sowiński Jakub , Świderek Maria , Śmiglewska Agata , Maluchnik Michał , Brzosko Marek , Kwiatkowska Brygida , Stajszczyk Marcin , Batko Bogdan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Over time, the revised juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) classification and a shift towards goal-oriented treatment with disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) may have changed the epidemiologic landscape of JIA.
Methods
Public healthcare utilization records from the National Health Fund (NHF) were screened between 2010–2022. For individuals aged < 16 years, we utilized a narrow JIA case definition combining repeat ICD-10 encoding with DMARDs prescription based on ATC codes.
Results
Of 37 mln patients in the NHF database, 29 758 individuals fulfilled our case definition. Over time, the number of newly detected cases ranged between 1381–2394. In 2022, the incidence and prevalence rate per 100,000 persons was calculated at 4.14 and 73.9, respectively. Stable incidence trends were observed with mean incidence rate estimated at 5.65 (95%CI 4.80–6.50). Gender-related differences confirm JIA susceptibility among females. Among JIA-related comorbidities, allergic rhinitis (N = 5 200, 17.5%), bronchial asthma (N = 3 661, 12.3%) and growth restriction (N = 2 311, 7.8%) were common. Over 214 285 visits, we calculated the total and median cost of JIA treatment at over 3.54 mln€ and 232 000€, respectively.
Conclusions
This is a comprehesive, nationwide study that provides a contemporary estimate for JIA burden and cost in Poland.
Five-Year Overall Survival of Early- and Late-Onset Colorectal Cancer in Medellín, Colombia: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ruiz-Grajales Álvaro Esteban , Correa-Cote Juan Camilo , Sánchez-Zapata Miguel Ángel , Orozco-Puerta Manuela María , Baena-García Juan Felipe , Castrillón-Martínez Esteban 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) (EOCRC, < 50 years) has distinct clinicopathological features from late-onset CRC (LOCRC, ≥ 50 years). However, evidence on survival outcomes is contradictory. We aimed to analyse the differences in 5-year overall survival (OS) between EOCRC and LOCRC.
Methods
A retrospective cohort study was conducted during 2018–2022. Individuals aged ≥ 18 years diagnosed with CRC at two hospitals in Medellín, Colombia were included. Clinicopathological and survival data were retrieved from the medical records and a public government database. Patients were categorized into EOCRC and LOCRC groups. Five-year OS rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and prognostic factors for OS were identified through Cox regression models.
Results
Among 1022 patients, 52.5% were female, and 13.5% (n = 138) had EOCRC. EOCRC patients had higher 5-year OS rates than LOCRC patients (54% vs. 32%, Log-Rank, p = 0.001). Univariable analyses indicated a 37% lower risk of death for EOCRC compared to LOCRC (HR: 0.633, 95% CI: 0.476–0.840). After multivariable analyses, advanced staging and higher tumour grading were prognostic factors for worse OS (HR: 2.127, 95% CI: 1.405–3.220 and HR: 12.896, 95% CI: 6.310-26.355, respectively). Conversely, being in the EOCRC group remained as a prognostic factor for higher OS (HR: 0.482, 95% CI: 0.336–0.690).
Conclusion
EOCRC is associated with significantly better 5-year OS rates and prognosis compared to LOCRC. Advanced stage and higher tumour grading are predictors of lower OS among all CRC patients. These findings highlight the importance of age-related risk stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches in CRC.
Linear endo-ultrasonographic signs of muscularis propria invasion in early rectal cancer
Authors: Borg F. ter , Bartelink M.E. , Bruil A.B. , Ledeboer M. , Driel L.M.J.W. van , Guitink A. , Faber J. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and study aim Local resection of early rectal cancer is being increasingly used. With invasion of the muscularis propria layer of the rectal wall, the risk of lymph node metastasis becomes too high to consider this the optimal oncological treatment. Therefore, a diagnosis of muscular invasion is important before attempting local resection; however endoscopic and MRI images have limitations such as overstaging (26–31%). We investigated the potential of linear endoscopic ultrasound (L-EUS) in the diagnosis of muscularis propria invasion.Patients and Methods The study consisted of a development phase, in which linear (L-) EUS features, associated with muscular wall invasion were searched and tested, and a validation phase, during which 30 representative videos were assessed by the author FtB and four experienced endosonographists without experience in rectal L-EUS.Results The development cohort consisted of 91 patients (2019–2023). Six EUS features were found to be significantly associated with muscular wall invasion: tornado sign, blob sign, massive connection, layer split, extramural deposit and, most importantly impaired shiftability between the lesion and muscularis propria layer. During the development phase, these findings demonstrated excellent diagnostic features (sensitivity, 94.4%; specificity, 97.9%; and overstaging, 4%). In the validation phase, the sensitivity, specificity, and overstaging by FtB were 88%, 85%, and 12%, respectively. Among the four inexperienced reviewers, the percentages were 65–71%, 46–54%, and 33–39%. When considering the 27 videos that were considered easy or moderately difficult to assess, only 55% were correctly interpreted by the inexperienced reviewers.Conclusion Linear endoscopic ultrasonography may be a valuable tool for the assessment of ingrowth into the muscularis propria in supposedly early rectal cancer, especially using its dynamic potential to assess fixation to the muscular wall by moving the lesion. However, training was required to achieve satisfactory results.
Osteocalcin as a marker of Vitamin K2 in children with chronic kidney diseases
Authors: Sawires Happy , Abdallah Shrouk , Ramadan Mohamed , Abdel-Halim Radwa , Ramadan Yasmin 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
We aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin K2 status, as measured by uOC, and bone health assessed through a bone turnover marker (bone alkaline phosphatase- BAP) in children with CKD taking in consideration the impact of eGFR.
Methods
We enrolled 75 patients classified into 3 groups: group A; CKD without KRT, group B; CKD on regular HD and group C; renal transplant recipients. Another 25 healthy individuals were involved as a control group. Under carboxylated osteocalcin (uOC) (as a sensitive indicator of vitamin K2 level) and BAP were measured in all patients. 24-hour dietary recall was used to assess vitamin k2, calcium, and phosphorus intake. Vitamin and mineral intake was calculated as a percent of target requirements of age and sex-matched healthy children.
Results
uOC was found significantly higher in the patient groups in comparison to the control group (p < 0.001). The highest level of uOC was detected in the HD group. In all groups, robust negative correlations were observed between uOC and vitamin K intake (%) levels. There was a statistically significant difference in uOC (p < 0.001) between those with history of bone fractures (No.= 7) compared to those without fractures (No.= 93). By logistic regression analysis, patients with a history of fractures were more likely to have a higher uOC (p = 0.012).
Conclusion
elevated uOC levels were observed in children with CKD and demonstrated a correlation with eGFR. Additionally, they exhibited a notable association with heightened bone turnover status, as indicated by BAP levels.
The Effect of Exercise On Menstrual Symptoms: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Koçak Merve , Şevgin Ömer 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Menstrual symptoms are a prevalent and frequently encountered women's health condition. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of exercise on menstrual symptoms, sleep quality, fatigue, and physical activity levels.
Methods
The study was designed as a randomized controlled trial conducted between September 2023 and December 2023. The study included 54 women aged 19 to 45 years. Participants were divided into two groups: a control group and an exercise group. All participants were evaluated with the Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ), the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ) before and after treatment. The control group did not receive an exercise program. The exercise group received an exercise program including strengthening, flexibility, and balance exercises. A moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and walking program was implemented at least three days per week. The study spanned three menstrual cycles for each woman and lasted an average of 12 weeks.
Results
Within-group analysis showed a significant decrease in MSQ, MDQ (menstrual), FSS, and PSQI scores after exercise. In contrast, the IPAQ score increased significantly in the exercise group. In the control group, a significant decrease was observed only in the MDQ (intermenstrual) score. A comparison of the pre-treatment and post-treatment changes in the exercise and control groups revealed a significant decrease in MSQ, MDQ (menstrual), and PSQI scores and an increase in IPAQ scores in the exercise group compared to the control group. However, the decrease in MDQ (pre-menstrual and intermenstrual) and FSS scores were not statistically different between the groups.
Conclusions
In conclusion, exercise had a positive effect on the severity of menstrual symptoms, sleep quality, and fatigue in women with menstrual symptoms. Women who exercised had a decrease in menstrual symptoms and an increase in sleep quality. Exercise can be employed as a non-pharmacological method to help women manage their symptoms.
Trial registration:
The protocol is registered with http://clinicaltrials.gov/ (17/August/2023, Clinical Trial, NCT06006507).
Development and Validation of RT-LAMP for Detecting Yellow Fever Virus in Non- Human Primates Samples from Brazil
Authors: Cardoso Sabrina F. , Yoshikawa Andre Akira Gonzaga , Pinheiro Iara Carolini , Granella Lucilene Wildner , Couto-Lima Dinair , Neves Maycon Sebastião Alberto Santos , Mansur Daniel Santos , Pitaluga André N. , Rona Luísa D. P. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Monitoring yellow fever in non-human primates (NHPs) is an early warning system for sylvatic yellow fever outbreaks, aiding in preventing human cases. However, current diagnostic tests for this disease, primarily relying on RT-qPCR, are complex and costly. Therefore, there is a critical need for simpler and more cost-effective methods to detect yellow fever virus (YFV) infection in NHPs, enabling early identification of viral circulation. In this study, an RT-LAMP assay for detecting YFV in NHP samples was developed and validated. Two sets of RT-LAMP primers targeting the YFV NS5 and E genes were designed and tested together with a third primer set to the NS1 locus using NHP tissue samples from Southern Brazil. The results were visualized by colorimetry and compared to the RT-qPCR test. Standardization and validation of the RT-LAMP assay demonstrated 100% sensitivity and specificity compared to RT-qPCR, with a detection limit of 12 PFU/mL. Additionally, the cross-reactivity test with other flaviviruses confirmed a specificity of 100%. Our newly developed RT-LAMP diagnostic test for YFV in NHP samples will significantly contribute to yellow fever monitoring efforts, providing a simpler and more accessible method for viral early detection. This advancement holds promise for enhancing surveillance and ultimately preventing the spread of yellow fever.
Hearing loss and neurological sequelae after childhood bacterial meningitis
Authors: Lempinen Laura , Saat Riste , Niemelä Sakke , Laulajainen-Hongisto Anu , Aarnisalo Antti A. , Nieminen Tea , Jero Jussi 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate childhood bacterial meningitis (BM): incidence, clinical presentation, causative pathogens, diagnostics, and outcome (neurological sequelae, hearing loss and death).
Methods: A retrospective review of all children aged ≤ 16 years and 1 month diagnosed with BM at a tertiary children’s centre in the period 2010–2020. The Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) was used to assess outcome, with a GOS score of 1–4 considered to be an unfavourable outcome. Logistic regression univariate analysis was used to determine predefined risk factors for death, unfavourable outcome and long-term neurological sequelae.
Results: 74 patients (44 males) with a median age of 8.0 months (range 1 day to 16 years and 1 month) and 77 BM episodes were included in the study. The average incidence rate of BM was 2.2/100 000/year, the majority (91%) being community-acquired BM. Streptococcus pneumonia and Neisseria meningitidis were the most common pathogens 12/77 (16%) each. Neurological sequelae at discharge were present in 24 (34%) patients, unfavourable outcome in 19 (25%) and hearing loss (deafness) in two (3%) survivors of BM. Seven (9%) patients died. Long-term neurological sequelae were observed in 19/60 (32%), aphasia/dysphasia being the most common in 10 (17%) BM children. No independent risk factors were identified for long-term neurological sequelae.
Conclusion: The risk for fatal course of BM is still remarkable. Neurological sequelae persisted in a substantial proportion of BM survivors in long-term follow-up, aphasia/dysphasia being the most common. Hearing loss (deafness) occurred in 3%. However, no specific risk factors predicting the long-term sequelae were found.
Engaging Older Adults in the Process of Aging Research: A Mixed-Methods Study Evaluating the Experience and Efficacy of a Citizen Advisory Group for a Dementia Risk Reduction Program
Authors: D’Amico Danielle , Savundranayagam Marie Y. , Biles Rose , Itzhak Inbal , Anderson Nicole D. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Collaborative research with end-users is an effective way to generate meaningful research applications and support greater impact on practice and knowledge exchange. To address these needs, a Citizen Advisory Group (CAG) of 9 older adults was formed to advise scientists on the development of Brain Health PRO (BHPro), a web-based platform designed to increase dementia prevention literacy and awareness. The current study evaluated if the CAG met its objectives, how inclusion of the CAG aligned with collaborative research approaches, and the CAG’s experience and satisfaction throughout the development process.
Methods
An anonymous online survey was administered to the CAG members (ages 64–80, 67% women) and 30 scientist/trainee authors of the BHPro chapters. The CAG also participated in an online focus group.
Results
Most CAG members and chapter authors agreed that the CAG met its primary objectives and added unique value to BHPro. Both groups viewed the CAG’s involvement as well-aligned with engaged scholarship, co-production, integrated knowledge translation, and, to a lesser extent, participatory research practices. CAG members reported high satisfaction with personal goal attainment, which included learning, collaborating with others, and making a meaningful impact. Content analyses of the focus group revealed three categories: 1) benefits of group connections, 2) value of a masked peer-review process, and 3) an accessible final product.
Conclusions
Findings suggest that collaborating with end-users in the process of aging research confers personal and scientific benefits for both older adults and researchers.
Effective suppression of potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum) sprouting using hydrogel for prolonged release of citronella essential oil
Authors: Yixuan Wang , Lixue Yuan , Qingmin Chen , Ye Xu , Maorun Fu 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Sprouting and induced glucoside alkaloids are commonly occurring, which are the main challenges in the storage of potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum). Essential oils are developed to inhibit potato sprouting, but their high volatility and instability limit their application. In this study, citronella essential oil (CEO) hydrogels were prepared by the ionic gelation method to enhance the sprout inhibition effect. The optimal conditions for the preparation of CEO hydrogels were: sodium alginate (SA) concentration of 1.56%, CaCl2 concentration of 2.26%, core-to-wall ratio of 2.02:1, and Tween-80 concentration of 0.15%. The SEM, FT-IR, XRD, and DSC images demonstrated that the CEO had been successfully encapsulated in hydrogels with improved thermal stability. CEO hydrogels could be released slowly within 1 week to achieve continuous sprouting inhibition. At 16 d of storage at 25 ℃, the sprouting rate of the CEO hydrogel-treated group was 42.06%, while that of the CK group was 100.00%; and at 180 d of storage at 3 ℃, the sprouting rate was 10.83%, while that of the CK group was 58.33%. The potato tubers treated with CEO hydrogel at either 3 ℃ or 25 ℃ maintained better quality. This indicated that CEO hydrogel can be used as a new potential potato sprout inhibitor in potato tubers.
The Development of an Electronic Medical Record System to Improve Quality of Care for Individuals With Type 1 Diabetes in Rwanda: Qualitative Study
Authors: Bille Nathalie , Christensen Dirk Lund , Byberg Stine , Calopietro Michael , Gishoma Crispin , Villadsen Sarah Fredsted 
Published: July 2024

Background
Electronic medical record (EMR) systems have the potential to improve the quality of care and clinical outcomes for individuals with chronic and complex diseases. However, studies on the development and use of EMR systems for type 1 (T1) diabetes management in sub-Saharan Africa are few.

Objective
The aim of this study is to analyze the need for improvements in the care processes that can be facilitated by an EMR system and to develop an EMR system for increasing quality of care and clinical outcomes for individuals with T1 diabetes in Rwanda.

Methods
A qualitative, cocreative, and multidisciplinary approach involving local stakeholders, guided by the framework for complex public health interventions, was applied. Participant observation and the patient’s personal experiences were used as case studies to understand the clinical care context. A focus group discussion and workshops were conducted to define the features and content of an EMR. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results
The identified themes related to feature requirements were (1) ease of use, (2) automatic report preparation, (3) clinical decision support tool, (4) data validity, (5) patient follow-up, (6) data protection, and (7) training. The identified themes related to content requirements were (1) treatment regimen, (2) mental health, and (3) socioeconomic and demographic conditions. A theory of change was developed based on the defined feature and content requirements to demonstrate how these requirements could strengthen the quality of care and improve clinical outcomes for people with T1 diabetes.

Conclusions
The EMR system, including its functionalities and content, can be developed through an inclusive and cocreative process, which improves the design phase of the EMR. The development process of the EMR system is replicable, but the solution needs to be customized to the local context.