bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular mechanisms that govern infection and antifungal resistance in Mucorales
Authors: Lax Carlos , Nicolás Francisco E. , Navarro Eusebio , Garre Victoriano 
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY
The World Health Organization has established a fungal priority pathogens list that includes species critical or highly important to human health. Among them is the order Mucorales, a fungal group comprising at least 39 species responsible for the life-threatening infection known as mucormycosis. Despite the continuous rise in cases and the poor prognosis due to innate resistance to most antifungal drugs used in the clinic, Mucorales has received limited attention, partly because of the difficulties in performing genetic manipulations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further escalated cases, with some patients experiencing the COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, highlighting the urgent need to increase knowledge about these fungi. This review addresses significant challenges in treating the disease, including delayed and poor diagnosis, the lack of accurate global incidence estimation, and the limited treatment options. Furthermore, it focuses on the most recent discoveries regarding the mechanisms and genes involved in the development of the disease, antifungal resistance, and the host defense response. Substantial advancements have been made in identifying key fungal genes responsible for invasion and tissue damage, host receptors exploited by the fungus to invade tissues, and mechanisms of antifungal resistance. This knowledge is expected to pave the way for the development of new antifungals to combat mucormycosis. In addition, we anticipate significant progress in characterizing Mucorales biology, particularly the mechanisms involved in pathogenesis and antifungal resistance, with the possibilities offered by CRISPR-Cas9 technology for genetic manipulation of the previously intractable Mucorales species.
Novel influenza A viruses in pigs with zoonotic potential, Chile
Authors: Tapia Rodrigo , Brito Bárbara , Saavedra Marco , Mena Juan , García-Salum Tamara , Rathnasinghe Raveen , Barriga Gonzalo , Tapia Karla , García Victoria , Bucarey Sergio , Jang Yunho , Wentworth David , Torremorell Montserrat , Neira Víctor , Medina Rafael A. 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Novel H1N2 and H3N2 swine influenza A viruses (IAVs) have recently been identified in Chile. The objective of this study was to evaluate their zoonotic potential. We perform phylogenetic analyses to determine the genetic origin and evolution of these viruses, and a serological analysis to determine the level of cross-protective antibodies in the human population. Eight genotypes were identified, all with pandemic H1N1 2009-like internal genes. H1N1 and H1N2 were the subtypes more commonly detected. Swine H1N2 and H3N2 IAVs had hemagglutinin and neuraminidase lineages genetically divergent from IAVs reported worldwide, including human vaccine strains. These genes originated from human seasonal viruses were introduced into the swine population since the mid-1980s. Serological data indicate that the general population is susceptible to the H3N2 virus and that elderly and young children also lack protective antibodies against the H1N2 strains, suggesting that these viruses could be potential zoonotic threats. Continuous IAV surveillance and monitoring of the swine and human populations is strongly recommended.

IMPORTANCE
In the global context, where swine serve as crucial intermediate hosts for influenza A viruses (IAVs), this study addresses the pressing concern of the zoonotic potential of novel reassortant strains. Conducted on a large scale in Chile, it presents a comprehensive account of swine influenza A virus diversity, covering 93.8% of the country’s industrialized swine farms. The findings reveal eight distinct swine IAV genotypes, all carrying a complete internal gene cassette of pandemic H1N1 2009 origin, emphasizing potential increased replication and transmission fitness. Genetic divergence of H1N2 and H3N2 IAVs from globally reported strains raises alarms, with evidence suggesting introductions from human seasonal viruses since the mid-1980s. A detailed serological analysis underscores the zoonotic threat, indicating susceptibility in the general population to swine H3N2 and a lack of protective antibodies in vulnerable demographics. These data highlight the importance of continuous surveillance, providing crucial insights for global health organizations.
Microbiome-based classification models for fresh produce safety and quality evaluation
Authors: Liao Chao , Wang Luxin , Quon Gerald 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Small sample sizes and loss of sequencing reads during the microbiome data preprocessing can limit the statistical power of differentiating fresh produce phenotypes and prevent the detection of important bacterial species associated with produce contamination or quality reduction. Here, we explored a machine learning-based
k
-mer hash analysis strategy to identify DNA signatures predictive of produce safety (PS) and produce quality (PQ) and compared it against the amplicon sequence variant (ASV) strategy that uses a typical denoising step and ASV-based taxonomy strategy. Random forest-based classifiers for PS and PQ using 7-mer hash data sets had significantly higher classification accuracy than those using the ASV data sets. We also demonstrated that the proposed combination of integrating multiple data sets and leveraging a 7-mer hash strategy leads to better classification performance for PS and PQ compared to the ASV method but presents lower PS classification accuracy compared to the feature-selected ASV-based taxonomy strategy. Due to the current limitation of generating taxonomy using the 7-mer hash strategy, the ASV-based taxonomy strategy with remarkably less computing time and memory usage is more efficient for PS and PQ classification and applicable for important taxa identification. Results generated from this study lay the foundation for future studies that wish and need to incorporate and/or compare different microbiome sequencing data sets for the application of machine learning in the area of microbial safety and quality of food.

IMPORTANCE

Identification of generalizable indicators for produce safety (PS) and produce quality (PQ) improves the detection of produce contamination and quality decline. However, effective sequencing read loss during microbiome data preprocessing and the limited sample size of individual studies restrain statistical power to identify important features contributing to differentiating PS and PQ phenotypes. We applied machine learning-based models using individual and integrated
k
-mer hash and amplicon sequence variant (ASV) data sets for PS and PQ classification and evaluated their classification performance and found that random forest (RF)-based models using integrated 7-mer hash data sets achieved significantly higher PS and PQ classification accuracy. Due to the limitation of taxonomic analysis for the 7-mer hash, we also developed RF-based models using feature-selected ASV-based taxonomic data sets, which performed better PS classification than those using the integrated 7-mer hash data set. The RF feature selection method identified 480 PS indicators and 263 PQ indicators with a positive contribution to the PS and PQ classification.
Patient–physician communication on herbal medicine use during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Im Hyea Bin , Hwang Jung Hye , Choi Dain , Choi Soo Jeung , Han Dongwoon 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionLack of transparent communication between patients and physicians regarding the use of herbal medicine (HM) presents a major public health challenge, as inappropriate HM use poses health risks. Considering the widespread use of HM and the risk of adverse events, it is crucial for pregnant women to openly discuss their HM use with healthcare providers. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the pooled prevalence of pregnant women’s HM use and disclosure to healthcare providers and to examine the relationship between HM disclosure and various maternal and child health (MCH) measures.MethodsA systematic search of five databases was conducted for cross-sectional studies on HM use during pregnancy published from 2000 to 2023. Data extraction followed a standardised approach, and Stata V.16.0 was used for data analysis. Also, Spearman’s correlation coefficient was calculated to examine the association between use and disclosure of HM and various MCH indicators.ResultsThis review included 111 studies across 51 countries on the use of HM among pregnant women. Our findings showed that 34.4% of women used HM during pregnancy, driven by the perception that HM is presumably safer and more natural than conventional medical therapies. However, only 27.9% of the HM users disclosed their use to healthcare providers because they considered HM as harmless and were not prompted by the healthcare providers to discuss their self-care practices. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed between HM disclosure and improved MCH outcomes.ConclusionInadequate communication between pregnant women and physicians on HM use highlights a deficiency in the quality of care that may be associated with unfavourable maternal outcomes. Thus, physician engagement in effective and unbiased communication about HM during antenatal care, along with evidence-based guidance on HM use, can help mitigate the potential risks associated with inappropriate HM use.
Impact of the design of adult mental health inpatient facilities on healthcare staff: a mixed methods systematic review
Authors: Rodríguez-Labajos Laura , Kinloch Joanne , Nicol Louise , Grant Susan , O'Brien Geraldine 
Published: March 2024

ObjectivesMental health inpatient facilities are increasingly focusing on creating therapeutic, person-centred care environments. However, research shows that this focus may have unintended consequences for healthcare staff. Designs that do not pay attention to staff needs may risk contributing to stress, burnout, job dissatisfaction and mental exhaustion in the work environment. This systematic review aims to identify and synthesise current research on the design factors of adult mental health inpatient facilities that impact healthcare staff.DesignA mixed method systematic review was conducted to search for empirical, peer-reviewed studies using the databases CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science from their inception up to 5 September 2023. The Joanna Briggs Institute’s critical appraisal checklists were used to assess the methodological quality of the eligible studies. Data were extracted and grouped based on the facility design factors.ResultsIn our review, we included 29 peer-reviewed empirical studies that identified crucial design factors impacting healthcare staff in adult mental health inpatient facilities. Key factors included layouts providing optimal visibility, designated work and respite areas, and centrally located nursing stations. Notably, mixed perceptions regarding the benefits and challenges of open and glass-enclosed nursing stations suggest areas requiring further research. Facilities in geographically remote locations also emerged as a factor influencing staff dynamics. Additionally, although only supported by a limited number of studies, the significance of artwork, sensory rooms for respite, appropriate furniture and equipment, and access to alarms was acknowledged as contributory factors.ConclusionThrough the synthesis of existing research, this review identified that the design of mental health facilities significantly impacts staff well-being, satisfaction, performance and perception of safety. Concluding that, in order to create a well-designed therapeutic environment, it is essential to account for both service users and staff user needs.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42022368155.
Sarcopenia in systemic sclerosis: prevalence and impact—a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tu Xiangping , Lin Taiping , Ju Yuan , Shu Xiaoyu , Jiang Tingting , Ge Ning , Yue Jirong 
Published: March 2024

ObjectiveThis review aims to provide an estimate of sarcopenia prevalence and its impact on clinical characteristics in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Data sourcesEmbase, Medline, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systemically searched from inception to 24 May 2023.Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesWe included observational studies that reported the prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with SSc.Data extraction and synthesisTwo reviewers independently performed study selection and data extraction using standardised methods. Risk of bias was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Scale and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using random effects models.ResultsA total of 4583 articles were screened and 9 studies with data from 815 patients were included in the analysis (8 cross-sectional studies and 1 retrospective cohort study). The overall prevalence of sarcopenia in patients with SSc was 22% (95% CI 17% to 28%). Patients with SSc with sarcopenia had a poorer quality of life (mean difference −12.02; 95% CI −19.11 to −4.93) and higher C reactive protein (CRP) levels (standardised mean difference 0.67; 95% CI 0.35 to 1.00).ConclusionsSarcopenia is common in patients with SSc. Patients with SSc with sarcopenia had a worse quality of life and higher CRP levels, based on our findings. Given the detrimental impact of sarcopenia on quality of life, future efforts aimed at early identification of sarcopenia in the clinical assessment of patients with SSc may have significance.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42022368326.
Exploring associations between pregnancy cravings and sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors: insights from a cross-sectional population study in Jordan
Authors: Kloub Suad M , Banihani Saleem A 
Published: March 2024

ObjectiveTo explore the potential associations between pregnancy cravings and various sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingPopulation-based study in Jordan.ParticipantsA total of 500 women who had children and experienced pregnancy cravings were included.Primary and secondary outcome measuresPregnancy cravings are prevalent among Jordanian women and associated with some sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors.ResultsThe results showed that 75.40% (377/500) of women experienced food cravings, with 40.6% and 29.1% of them having iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency, respectively. The most commonly craved food items were sweets (17.2%, 86/500) and salts (22.2%, 115/500), while less than 1.0% of women craved non-food items. No significant correlation (p>0.05) was found between food cravings and the gender of the babies. Significant associations were found between food cravings and the mother’s educational level (p=0.023), weight loss (p<0.001) and diseases such as anaemia (p=0.01).ConclusionPregnancy cravings, particularly for food items, with sweets and salts being the most commonly craved, are prevalent among Jordanian women and are associated with the mother’s educational level, changes in weight and the presence of anaemia. Additionally, the study found that iron and vitamin D deficiencies are prevalent health issues among women experiencing these cravings in Jordan. This research has important implications, emphasising the pressing need for targeted nutritional interventions and healthcare strategies to address identified deficiencies and improve maternal health outcomes in the region.
Analysis of problems and potentials for increasing pandemic resilience in public health administrations in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany—a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Samtlebe Pascal , Niemann Jana , Markert Jenny , Knöchelmann Anja , Bernard Marie 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of resilient, modern, and well-equipped public health administrations from national to communal levels. In Germany, the surveillance, contact tracing, and local adaptions went through local health offices, revealing both their important role and also their lack of equipment and general preparation for health crises. Research on the mode of operation of the public health service (PHS), especially in a time of crisis, is rare. The present study aims to qualitatively and quantitatively assess problem areas, conflict potentials, and challenges that have become apparent for the PHS of Saxony-Anhalt during the pandemic. It focuses on the individual insight of employees of the PHS of Saxony-Anhalt and its 14 health offices to derive concrete needs and fields of action for increasing pandemic preparedness. Furthermore, the prospective personnel and resource-based requirements as well as the necessary structural and organisational changes of the public health departments are to be considered.Methods and analysisThe study will follow a sequential mixed-methods approach. Introductory expert interviews (n=12) with leading staff of Saxony-Anhalt’s PHS will be conducted, followed by focus group interviews (n=4) with personnel from all departments involved in the pandemic response. Thereafter, a quantitative survey will be carried out to validate and complement the results of the qualitative phase.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval was obtained by the Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg ethics commission (Ref number 2023-102). The authors will submit the results of the study to relevant peer-reviewed journals and give national and international oral presentations to researchers, members of the PHS, and policymakers.
Knowledge, attitude and practice of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy
Authors: Sheng Binyue , Yao Dongmei , Zhang Haihua , Tang Jing , Du Xin 
Published: March 2024

ObjectivesThe study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of contraceptive methods among women with an unplanned pregnancy, aiming to improve their reproductive health and increase their understanding of contraceptive methods.DesignThis is a cross-sectional study.SettingThe study was conducted at the Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital of Hubei between 20 November 2022 and 20 January 2023.ParticipantsWomen with an unplanned pregnancy were included.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe questionnaire was in the Chinese language and included demographic data, KAP assessments. Multivariate linear regression was performed to explore the factors associated with knowledge or practice scores.ResultsDuring the study period, 510 participants with valid questionnaires were included. The KAP scores were 7.30±2.91, 32.61±3.13 and 28.58±3.59, respectively. Place of residence (urban vs non-urban; B=0.66, 95% CI 0.02 to 1.29, p=0.043) and educational level (master’s degree or above vs post secondary or below; B=1.07, 95% CI 0.17 to 1.96, p=0.020) were positively associated with knowledge. Knowledge (B=0.25, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.32, p<0.001) and attitude (B=0.26, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.32, p<0.001) were positively associated with practice.ConclusionsThis study indicates a low level of KAP regarding contraceptive methods among women facing unplanned pregnancies. Place of residence and educational level were positively associated with knowledge scores. These findings may help improve future sex education policies and programmes.
Universal screening for early detection of chronic autoimmune, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in the general population using capillary blood (UNISCREEN): low-risk interventional, single-centre, pilot study protocol
Authors: Merolla Aurora , De Lorenzo Rebecca , Ferrannini Giulia , Renzi Cristina , Ulivi Francesca , Bazzigaluppi Elena , Lampasona Vito , Bosi Emanuele 
Published: March 2024

IntroductionChronic autoimmune (type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease) and metabolic/cardiovascular (type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension) diseases are highly prevalent across all age ranges representing a major public health burden. Universal screening for prediction/early identification of these conditions is a potential tool for reducing their impact on the general population. The aim of this study is to assess whether universal screening using capillary blood sampling is feasible at a population-based level.Methods and analysisThis is a low-risk interventional, single-centre, pilot study for a population-based screening programme denominated UNISCREEN. Participants are volunteers aged 1–100 who reside in the town of Cantalupo (Milan, Italy) undergoing: (1) interview collecting demographics, anthropometrics and medical history; (2) capillary blood collection for measurement of type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease-specific autoantibodies and immediate measurement of glucose, glycated haemoglobin and lipid panel by point-of-care devices; (3) venous blood sampling to confirm autoantibody-positivity; (4) blood pressure measurement; (5) fulfilment of a feasibility and acceptability questionnaire. The outcomes are the assessment of feasibility and acceptability of capillary blood screening, the prevalence of presymptomatic type 1 diabetes and undiagnosed coeliac disease, distribution of glucose categories, lipid panel and estimate of cardiovascular risk in the study population. With approximately 3000 inhabitants, the screened population is expected to encompass at least half of its size, approaching nearly 1500 individuals.Ethics and disseminationThis protocol and the informed consent forms have been reviewed and approved by the San Raffaele Hospital Ethics Committee (approval number: 131/INT/2022). Written informed consent is obtained from all study participants or their parents if aged <18. Results will be published in scientific journals and presented at meetings.ConclusionsIf proven feasible and acceptable, this universal screening model would pave the way for larger-scale programmes, providing an opportunity for the implementation of innovative public health programmes in the general population.Trial registration numberNCT05841719.