bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dietary Quality and Micronutrient Adequacy, Iron Deficiency Anaemia and their Associated Factors among Adolescent Students in Acholi Sub-region of Uganda
Authors: Adokorach Gloria , Oyet Sunday Mark , Muggaga Christopher , Obai Gerald 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background: Globally, iron deficiency anaemia is a widespread nutrition problem, a concern for public health that affects nearly 2 billion people, mostly adolescents, young children, infants and the elderly, women of reproductive age and people with chronic inflammatory diseases. As far as Acholi sub-region is concerned, the available information is on women of reproductive age, concealing that of adolescents in regards to iron deficiency. This inadequacy prompted the study to examine status of dietary quality and micronutrient adequacy, iron deficiency anaemia and their associated factors among adolescents in secondary schools of Gulu district.
Methods: Using cross sectional study, 341 adolescent boys and girls aged 10-19 years from two schools in rural of Gulu district were recruited for the study. HemoCue method was used to measure the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia where as individual dietary diversity as an indicator of micronutrient adequacy was measured using the Individual Dietary Diversity Score (IDDS),
Results: The prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia was found to be 16% (Girls:18.1%; Boys:13.0%). In addition, the mean measure of haemoglobin (Hb) level was 13.21 g/dl, and was slightly higher in boys (13.46±1.55 g/dl) compared to girls (13.02±1.30 g/dl). Individual Dietary Diversity Score (IDDS) was not significantly different (p˃0.05) between adolescent girls and boys, with mean individual dietary diversities measures of 3.47±2.143 and 2.98±1.785, respectively, indicating low dietary diversity. Among all food groups, animal source foods, fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin A, other fruits and vegetables were the most consumed by adolescent girls compared to boys. The analysis from binary logistic regression showed that, all the socio-demographic factors in the study did not predict dietary diversity as presented by the p value of (p ˃ 0.05). On the other hand, analysis from linear regression revealed that high education attainment by parent/guardian and nature of menstruation predicted the prevalence of anaemia amongst adolescents (p<0.05).
Conclusions: The prevalence of anaemia was found to be high and characterised with low dietary diversity among adolescents in Gulu district. This study recommends the need for health education and promotion of agricultural practices that support good nutrition in schools with the view of reducing the burden from iron deficiency anaemia.
Exploring the Need of Establishing Geriatric Care Centre in Ghana: The perspective of healthcare practitioners and Elderly Patients
Authors: Appiah Isaac Offei , Prempeh Charles Agyemang , Atibila Fidelis , Peprah Maxwell Owusu , Ewusie Tutuwaa Baffour 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Older patients in developing countries face major challenges in accessing comprehensive medical care. The assessment of the need to establish a geriatric center has been poorly studied in Ghana. This study explored the need of establishing geriatric care center among healthcare practitioners and elderly patients at the Presbyterian Hospital, Dormaa Ahenkro of Ghana.
Methodology: An exploratory qualitative study employed purposive sampling technique to recruit participants. Applying In-depth interview guide to solicit study data. Data was collected face to face with the help of audio recorded devices and notes taking alongside with participants. Data was transcribed verbatim using NVivo (v16). Braun and Clarke thematic analysis was conducted on the transcribed data to generate themes and sub-themes.
Results
Four themes and nine sub-themes evolved out of the study. It was established that, health care practitioners had experienced in providing care to geriatrics. Skill acquisition and continuous training enhanced practitioner’s experience. practitioners indicated the need of establishing geriatric friendly center with the supportive equipment. Elderly patients revealed common disease conditions that compel them to frequently visit the hospital. It was also reported that elderly patients face financial challenges and delayence while accessing healthcare.
Conclusion
Despite the vast experience and demonstration of good knowledge by healthcare practitioners in providing geriatric care, aged patients complained of financial challenges and service delayence. Establishing geriatric friendly center with functional equipment and financial support would ease aged patients challenge in accessing healthcare. Further study is required to explore elderly patients experience of home support system from immediate relatives.
A Novel Growth Guidance System for early onset scoliosis: a preliminary in vitro study
Authors: Du You , Bian Yanyan , Zhao Yiwei , Yang Yang , Lin Guanfeng , Han Bingtai , Zhang Haoran , Li Chenkai , Ye Xiaohan , Li Zhiyi , Zhang Jianguo , Wang Shengru 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of the study was to describe a novel growth guidance system, which can avoid metal debris and reduce the sliding friction forces, and test the durability and glidability of the system by in vitro test.
Method
Two major modifications were made to the traditional Shilla system, including the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) gaskets to avoid direct contact between the screw and rod, and polishing the surface of the sliding part of the rod. We test the durability of the system by a fatigue test, which the samples were test on the MTS system for a 10 million cycle of a constant displacement. Pre and post-testing involved weighing the UHMWPE gaskets and observing the wear conditions. The sliding ability were measured by a sliding displacement test. The maximum sliding displacement of the system was measured after a 300 cycles of dynamic compressive loads in a sinusoidal waveform.
Results
After the fatigue test, all the UHMWPE gaskets samples showed some of the fretting on the edge of the inner sides, but its still isolated and avoided the friction between the screws and rods. There was no production of metallic fretting around the sliding screws and rods. The average wear mass of the UHMWPE gaskets was 0.002 ± 0.001g, less than 1.7% of the original mass. In the sliding test, the novel growth guidance system demonstrated the best sliding ability, with a average maximum sliding distance(AMSD) of 35.75 ± 5.73mm, significantly better than the group of the traditional Shilla technique(AMSD 3.65 ± 0.46mm, P < 0.0001).
Conclusion
In conclusion, we modified the Shilla technique and designed a novel growth guidance system by changing the friction interface of sliding screw and rod, which may significantly reduce the metallic debris and promote spine growth. The fatigue test and sliding dislocation test demonstrated the better durability and glidability of the system. An in vivo animal experiment should be performed to further verify the system.
RETRACTED: Improving Optical Transmission Performance in Multi- Channel Networks Utilizing CNN-Enabled Digital Signal Processing to Mitigate Four-Wave Mixing
Authors: Armghan Ammar , Ali Farman , Alam Muhammad Mahtab , Afsar Haleem 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square. The authors' request does not imply errors or misconduct.
Insights from Multigene Analysis: First Report of a Southeast Asian Mosquito, Aedes (Mucidus) laniger (Diptera: Culicidae) from Korea
Authors: Bang Woo Jun , Seol Ara , Shin Seunggwan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Mosquitoes are dominant vectors worldwide and transmit infectious diseases. The expansion of mosquito habitats due to climate change and increased human activities poses a significant health threat by facilitating the spread of various non-native infectious diseases. This study focused on the detection of the Southeast Asian mosquito species, Aedes laniger on Jeju Island, the southernmost region of the Republic of Korea (ROK), highlighting the potential risks associated with the spread of vector-borne diseases, particularly emphasizing the elevated likelihood of invasion by Southeast Asian mosquitoes.
Methods
Field surveys were conducted in August 2023 on Jeju Island. Adult mosquitoes were collected using BG-sentinel traps and identified to the species level using taxonomic keys. Morphological and molecular analyses were employed to confirm species designations. Molecular data, including mitochondrial and nuclear genes, were used for phylogenetic analysis, which was performed to compare and identify among recorded subgenera in ROK. Species distribution modeling for Ae. laniger was performed to predict potential habitats using R package ‘BIOMOD2’.
Results
The two specimens of Aedes laniger were collected for the first time on Jeju Island. Morphological and molecular analyses confirmed the identity of this species within the subgenus Mucidus and validated the first record of this species in the ROK. We employed a simple multigene phylogenetic analysis to confirm a new mosquito record at the genus and subgenus levels, finally validating the consistency between morphological identification and molecular phylogenetic outcomes. Furthermore, we have updated the taxonomic keys for the genus Aedes in the ROK, and revised mosquito lists for Jeju Island, incorporating the inclusion of Ae. laniger. On the basis of species distribution modeling, the area of suitable habitat for Ae. laniger is expected to expand due to climate change, but this change did not appear to be meaningful in East Asia.
Conclusion
This case offers the first report of the Southeast Asian mosquito, Ae. laniger, in the ROK. The detection of this species on Jeju Island suggests the potential establishment of a breeding population their habitat and raises concerns about further expansion into the Korean Peninsula. Considering the annual occurrence of mosquito-borne disease cases in the Southeast Asia, it is essential to conduct monitoring not only in Jeju Island, where Ae. laniger has been identified, but also across the entire Korean Peninsula.
The IVF/ICSI Pregnancy Outcomes and Influencing Factors of Low AMH Patients with High and Low Basal FSH
Authors: Yilei He , Rui Yang , Yu Fu , Yuanyuan Wang , Lixue Chen , Rong Li , Jie Qiao , Ying Wang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the IVF/ICSI outcomes and influencing factors of low basal AMH level young patients with elevated and decreased basal FSH levels.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 70,644 IVF/ICSI cycles performed at a tertiary hospital reproductive center between January 2017 and December 2022. After 1:2 propensity score matching for age and AMH of low basal AMH level patients (AMH < 1.1ng/mL) aged 20-39 years, 298 low basal FSH level cycles (FSH < 5mIU/ml) and 149 high basal FSH level cycles (FSH > 25mIU/ml) were included.
Results: The clinical pregnancy rates (35.07% vs. 23.81%, P = 0.007), live birth rates (28.36% vs. 16.67%, P = 0.007), cumulative clinical pregnancy rates (19.80% vs. 8.05%, P = 0.001), and cumulative live birth rates (16.78% vs. 6.04%, P = 0.002) were all higher in the low FSH level group. After adjusting for BMI and ovulation induction protocol, a high basal FSH level was negatively associated with the number of good-quality embryos (P = 0.007), cumulative clinical pregnancy (OR 0.430 (0.216, 0.854), P = 0.016) and cumulative live birth (OR 0.396 (0.183, 0.855), P = 0.018). AFC was positively correlated with clinical pregnancy (OR 1.151 (1.050, 1.262), P = 0.003), live birth (OR 1.121 (1.013, 1.241), P = 0.027), cumulative clinical pregnancy (OR 0.430 (0.216, 0.854), P = 0.016) and cumulative live birth (OR 0.396 (0.183, 0.855), P = 0.018).
Conclusion: Low basal AMH level young patients with low basal FSH level had more AFCs and showed better pregnancy outcomes. A high basal FSH level was negatively associated with the number of good-quality embryos, cumulative clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. AFC was positively correlated with pregnancy outcomes.
Pharmacological activation of aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 inhibits ferroptosis via SLC7A11/GPX4 axis to reduce kidney stone formation
Authors: Zhang Jingdong , Wang Rui , Xie Linguo , Ren Haotian , Luo Di , Yang Yu , Shang Zhiqun , Xie Haijie , Liu Chunyu 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stones pose a global health challenge due to their high prevalence and recurrence rates. While cell death mechanisms such as ferroptosis are known to play a crucial role in stone formation, the precise underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is a metabolic enzyme of the ferroptosis product 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE). However, the function of ALDH2 in kidney stones is poorly understood. In this study, ALDH2 expression was assessed in kidney tissues and HK-2 cells using immunohistochemistry and western blot. Renal histology and crystal deposition were visualized through hematoxylin-eosin and Von Kossa staining. The expression of crystal-related molecules and ferroptosis-associated molecules was quantified via qPCR, western blot and immunohistochemical staining. Commercial assay kits were utilized to quantify glutathione, lipid peroxidation and Fe2+, and the activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Rescue experiments involving siRNA targeting Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 11 (SLC7A11) were conducted to explore functional implications. Our data showed significant reduction of ALDH2 in the stone group. Alda-1, an agonist of ALDH2, notably mitigated crystal deposition in the kidneys and hindered crystal adhesion to cells. Furthermore, Alda-1 induced an upregulation of SLC7A11 expression, stimulating glutathione synthesis, reducing lipid peroxidation accumulation, and lowering Fe2+ levels, collectively contributing to the attenuation of ferroptosis triggered by crystal stimulation. Notably, SLC7A11 siRNA experiments confirmed the role of SLC7A11 in Alda-1-mediated renoprotection. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential of targeting ALDH2 as a promising therapeutical strategy for urolithiasis.
Utilization of maternal and child health services and its determinants among women of 15-49 years in India: Evidence from National Family Health Survey-5.
Authors: Daulat Anmol , Deo Vishal , Deka Barnali , Sahu Damodar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Although there has been a significant improvement over the last two decades, maternal health, covering pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, still faces challenges in India. In 2023, WHO reported 287,000 maternal deaths worldwide, with India's maternal mortality rate at 113/100,000 live births for 2016–18, improving from the previous period. The SDG global target of reducing the maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030, which India has committed itself to, necessitates immediate attention to address socioeconomic and demographic disparities in maternal care to inform national health missions like PMJSY and JSSK. Adequate utilization of maternal and child health (MCH) care services is critical to improve maternal health. This study aims to assess the extent of utilization of MCH services in India, viz., antenatal care (ANC), skilled birth attendant (SBA), and postnatal care (PNC), and identify socioeconomic and demographic barriers in utilization of these services.
Methods
The present study used data from NFHS-5 (2019–2021) on 176483 mothers and 232920 children for analysis. Outcome variables representing utilization of ANC, SBA and PNC are derived from relevant variables using their standard definitions. We examined the association of demographic and socioeconomic factors with the three outcomes using univariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Further, states were divided into four groups based on their child health performance to investigate disparities in utilization of MCH between these groups.
Results
Overall, 26.7%, 74.6% and 88.67% mothers availed full ANC, PNC, and SBA services for their most recent births. As per the results of the logistic regressions, higher levels of education of mothers, higher wealth quintiles of the household, and urban residency are strongly associated with higher chances of availing the three services. A mother’s lack of exposure to mass media, higher number of births, and socially disadvantaged status act as barriers in utilization of MCH services.
Conclusion
Disparities in the utilization of MCH services are associated with socioeconomic and demographic factors, like education level of mother, social background, wealth status, and rurality of residence. Our findings reiterate the significance of female education and universal health coverage in bridging the socioeconomic gap in the utilization of MCH services.
Numerical Simulation of Cathode Nodule Local Effeccts
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Li chun , Tie Jun , Meng Yi , Li Guanlin , Qiu Xiaowen 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
As one of the main factors decreasing current efficiency and product quality, the growth of nodules deserves attention in the copper electrorefining process. 3D FEM models combining tertiary current distribution and fluid flow were established in this study to investigate the details of the growth of columnar nodules, including the electrolyte flow around the nodule and its effects. Compared with an inert nodule, a significant impact of the electrochemical reaction of an active nodule has been observed on the fluid flow, which may be one of the reasons for the formation of small nodule clusters on the cathode. Furthermore, the local current density isn't even on the nodule surface under the comprehensive influence of local electrolyte flow, local overvoltage, and the angle with the anode surface. Thus, the head of an active nodule grows faster than the root, and the upper parts grow faster than the lower parts, leading to asymmetric growth of the nodules.
Proteinuria and albuminuria prevalence in allergic children
Authors: MOULU Marina VINCENT , Ponthier Laure , Chianea Thierry , Ménétrey Céline , Hamel Chahrazed El , Guigonis Vincent 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have reported an atopic background in patients suffering from idiopathic nephrotic syndrome. Proteinuria has also been reported in allergic patients, but in a limited number of studies with, for most of them, a low level of evidence. If confirmed, the presence of proteinuria in allergic children could be a clue that could help to understand idiopathic nephrotic syndrome pathophysiology. We conducted a prospective study to compare the urine protein levels in allergic and non- allergic children.
METHODS Urine samples were collected from 196 children with a suspicion of allergy. Total protein, albumin, and creatinine were measured in urine. Included patients were secondary dispatched in allergic and non-allergic groups.
RESULTS In the allergic group (n=99), six children (6%) were proteinuric (proteinuria/creatinuria ratio ranging from 20 to 1449 mg/mmol versus eight (8%) (21 to 219 mg/mmol) among the non-allergic patients (n=97). There was no significant difference between allergic and non-allergic patients either for proteinuria/creatininuria ratio (mean 28.13 and 18.18 mg/mmol respectively) or albuminuria/creatininuria ratio (mean 9.84 and 3.04 mg/mmol respectively).
CONCLUSION Allergic patients do not present proteinuria more frequently than non- allergic patients. These results do not support a pathophysiological link that could lead from allergy to idiopathic nephrotic syndrome through the presence of pathologic proteinuria in allergic patients.
Effect of prior depression diagnosis on bipolar disorder outcomes: a retrospective cohort study using a medical claims database
Authors: Sakurai Hitoshi , Nakashima Masayuki , Tsuboi Takashi , Baba Kenji , Nosaka Tadashi , Watanabe Koichiro , Kawakami Koji 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Bipolar disorder often emerges from depressive episodes and is initially diagnosed as depression. This study aimed to explore the effects of a prior depression diagnosis on outcomes in patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Methods
This cohort study analyzed data of patients aged 18–64 years who received a new bipolar disorder diagnosis in Japan, using medical claims data from January 2005 to October 2020 provided by JMDC, Inc. The index month was defined as the time of the bipolar diagnosis. The study assessed the incidence of psychiatric hospitalization, all-cause hospitalization, and mortality, stratified by the presence of a preceding depression diagnosis and its duration (≥ 1 or < 1 year). Hazard ratios (HRs) and p-values were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for potential confounders, and supported by log-rank tests.
Results
Of the 5,595 patients analyzed, 2,460 had a history of depression, with 1,049 experiencing it for over a year and 1,411 for less than a year. HRs for psychiatric hospitalization, all hospitalizations, and death in patients with a history of depression versus those without were 0.92 (95% CI = 0.78–1.08, p = 0.30), 0.87 (95% CI = 0.78–0.98, p = 0.017), and 0.61 (95% CI = 0.33–1.12, p = 0.11), respectively. In patients with preceding depression ≥ 1 year versus < 1 year, HRs were 0.89 (95% CI = 0.67–1.19, p = 0.43) for psychiatric hospitalization, 0.85 (95% CI = 0.71-1.00, p = 0.052) for all hospitalizations, and 0.25 (95% CI = 0.07–0.89, p = 0.03) for death.
Conclusion
A prior history and duration of depression may not elevate psychiatric hospitalization risk after bipolar disorder diagnosis, and might even correlate with reduced hospitalization and mortality rates.
Increased Brucella abortus asRNA_0067 expression under intraphagocytic stressors is associated with enhanced virB2 transcription
Authors: Munoz-Bucio Adrian , Arellano-Reynoso Beatriz , Sangari Félix J. , Sieira Rodrigo , Espitia Clara , Thebault Patricia , Lobo Juan M. García , Seoane Asunción , Suárez-Güemes Francisco 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Intracellular pathogens like Brucella face challenges during the intraphagocytic adaptation phase, where the modulation of gene expression plays an essential role in taking advantage of stressors to persist inside the host cell. This study aims to explore the expression of antisense virB2 RNA strand and related genes under intracellular simulation media. Sense and antisense virB2 RNA strands increased expression when nutrient deprivation and acidification were higher, being the starvation more determinative. Meanwhile bspB, one of the T4SS effector genes, exhibited the highest expression during the exposition to pH 4.5 and nutrient abundance. Based on RNA-seq analysis and RACE data, we constructed a regional map depicting the 5’ and 3’ ends of virB2 and the cis-encoded asRNA_0067. Without affecting the CDS or a possible autonomous RBS, we generate the deletion mutant ΔasRNA_0067, significantly reducing virB2 mRNA expression and survival rate. These results suggest that the antisense asRNA_0067 expression is promoted under exposure to the intraphagocytic adaptation phase stressors, and its deletion is associated with a lower transcription of the virB2 gene. Our findings illuminate the significance of these RNA strands in modulating the survival strategy of Brucella within the host and emphasize the role of nutrient deprivation in gene expression.