生信网-文献期刊

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Knowles B, Bonachela JA, Cieslik N

Viral lysis of phytoplankton is one of the most common forms of death on Earth. Building on an assay used extensively to assess rates of phytoplankton loss to predation by grazers, lysis rates are increasingly quantified through dilution-based techniques. In this approach, dilution of viruses and hosts are expected to reduce infection rates and thus increase host net growth rates (i.e., accumulation rates). The difference between diluted and undiluted host growth rates is interpreted as a measurable proxy for the rate of viral lytic death. These assays are usually conducted in volumes ≥ 1 L. To increase throughput, we implemented a miniaturized, high-throughput, high-replication, flow cytometric microplate dilution assay to measure viral lysis in environmental samples sourced from a suburban pond and the North Atlantic Ocean. The most notable outcome we observed was a decline in phytoplankton densities that was exacerbated by dilution, instead of the increased growth rates expected from lowered virus-phytoplankton encounters. We sought to explain this counterintuitive outcome using theoretical, environmental, and experimental analyses. Our study shows that, while die-offs could be partly explained by a 'plate effect' due to small incubation volumes and cells adhering to walls, the declines in phytoplankton densities are not volume-dependent. Rather, they are driven by many density- and physiology-dependent effects of dilution on predation pressure, nutrient limitation, and growth, all of which violate the original assumptions of dilution assays. As these effects are volume-independent, these processes likely occur in all dilution assays that our analyses show to be remarkably sensitive to dilution-altered phytoplankton growth and insensitive to actual predation pressure. Incorporating altered growth as well as predation, we present a logical framework that categorizes locations by the relative dominance of these mechanisms, with general applicability to dilution-based assays.

2. Indirect estimation of the need for palliative care during the COVID-19 pandemic: A descriptive cross-sectional study using mortality data in the Biobío Region, Chile.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Barría-Sandoval C, Espinoza Venegas M, Ferreira G.

BACKGROUND: People with chronic diseases in their advanced phase require palliative care. This is essential to ensure their quality of life as it ends. However, a very low percentage of patients receive the necessary palliative care. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the planning and provision of palliative care. Despite this, in Chile, palliative care coverage was extended by law to cover nononcological chronic diseases. Implementation of this law is expected to be a significant challenge in terms of material resources, as well as the need for the formation of specialized palliative care teams. Therefore, it is essential to estimate the need for palliative care for all chronic diseases to generate useful input for planning and decision-making in public health. OBJECTIVES: To indirectly estimate the need for palliative care among people with Chronic Oncological Diseases (COD) and Chronic Non-Oncological Diseases (CNOD) during the prepandemic and pandemic context due to COVID-19 in the Biobío Region in Chile. METHODS: Cross-sectional study based on mortality data from chronic oncological and nononcological diseases during the prepandemic (2010-2018) and pandemic (2020-2021) contexts due to COVID-19 in a Region of Chile through indirect estimation using minimal estimate, standardized mortality rates and geographically weighted regression. RESULTS: It was estimated that 76.25% of deaths from chronic diseases in the Biobío Region would have required palliative care, which represents 77,618 people who should have been included in these health benefits. The pandemic had a significant effect on the average number of deaths from CNOD. People belonging to this group were more likely to die from COVID-19 than from their baseline disease, unlike the deaths of people from COD, where no significant changes were observed. CONCLUSION: These estimates highlight the potential size of the population requiring palliative care and emphasize the importance of recognizing the rights of individuals with COD and CNOD conditions. It is evident that there is a significant demand for palliative care services, as well as a pressing need for adequate resources, effective management, and strategic planning to cater to the needs of this population. This is particularly crucial in the heavily impacted areas and communes of the Biobío Region, Chile.

3. Unconditioned and conditioned anxiolytic effects of Sodium Valproate on flavor neophobia and fear conditioning.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Cintado MÁ, González G, Cárcel L

4. Potential sources of contamination on textiles and hard surfaces identified as high-touch sites near the patient environment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Nygren E, Gonzales Strömberg L, Logenius J

5. Scientific research input and output efficiency evaluation of universities in Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle based on data envelopment analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Wang C, Zeng J, Zhong H

6. Alkaline-SDS cell lysis of microbes with acetone protein precipitation for proteomic sample preparation in 96-well plate format.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Chen Y, Gin JW, Wang Y

7. Plantar threshold sensitivity assessment using an automated tool-Clinical assessment comparison between a control population without type 2 diabetes mellitus, and populations with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with and without neuropathy symptoms.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Castellano VK, Commander J, Burch T

8. Vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from facility surveys across six countries.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Baral P, Ahmed T, Amor Fernandez P

BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy remains a critical barrier in mitigating the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The willingness of health care workers (HCWs) to be vaccinated, and, in turn, recommend the COVID-19 vaccine for their patient population is an important strategy. This study aims to understand the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and the reasoning for vaccine hesitancy among facility-based health care workers (HCWs) in LMICs. METHODS: We conducted nationally representative phone-based rapid-cycle surveys across facilities in six LMICs to better understand COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. We gathered data on vaccine uptake among facility managers, their perceptions of vaccine uptake and hesitancy among the HCWs operating in their facilities, and their perception of vaccine hesitancy among the patient population served by the facility. RESULTS: 1,148 unique public health facilities participated in the study, with vaccines being almost universally offered to facility-based respondents across five out of six countries. Among facility respondents who have been offered the vaccine, more than 9 in 10 survey respondents had already been vaccinated at the time of data collection. Vaccine uptake among other HCWs at the facility was similarly high. Over 90% of facilities in Bangladesh, Liberia, Malawi, and Nigeria reported that all or most staff had already received the COVID-19 vaccine when the survey was conducted. Concerns about side effects predominantly drive vaccine hesitancy in both HCWs and the patient population. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that the opportunity to get vaccinated in participating public facilities is almost universal. We find vaccine hesitancy among facility-based HCWs, as reported by respondents, to be very low. This suggests that a potentially effective effort to increase vaccine uptake equitably would be to channel promotional activities through health facilities and HCWs.However, reasons for hesitancy, even if limited, are far from uniform across countries, highlighting the need for audience-specific messaging.

9. Examining the attitudes of sexually abused and non-abused individuals towards marriage in terms of ambivalent sexism.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Çelik E, Dombak K, Kaya M

10. Insight in schizophrenia is associated with psychoeducation and social support: Testing a new more comprehensive insight tool in Turkish schizophrenia patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Gundogmus AG, Gerretsen P, Song J

Insight is a continuous and multidimensional phenomenon, including awareness of having an illness, the presence of symptoms and accurate symptom attribution, the need for treatment, and the consequences of treatment. Good insight into illness is associated with better adherence to treatment, better cognitive, psychosocial, and vocational functioning along with less symptom severity, decreased relapses, and hospitalizations. Several tools are used for insight evaluation. We recruited 90 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and analyzed the forms of 58 patients. The patients completed the VAGUS-SR (self-rated), Beck Cognitive Insight Scale, Knowledge About Schizophrenia Questionnaire, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Clinicians performed a mental status examination and completed the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Schedule for the Assessment of Insight, VAGUS-CR (clinician-rated), Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia, and Clinical Global Impressions. We found that the level of insight evaluated using the VAGUS forms increased with knowledge regarding schizophrenia. Upon investigating the relationship between perceived social support and insight, we identified a relationship between VAGUS-CR and only significant other subscales of MSPSS, and between one of the VAGUS-SR scale sub-dimensions and significant other and total scores of MSPSS. Our findings also suggest that the VAGUS-SR and VAGUS-CR scales can be used to evaluate insight in Turkish populations. The positive relationship between perceived social support and insight emphasizes the importance of increasing social support through interventions aimed at improving insight. Our data also highlighted the value of psychoeducational studies in this patient group. Considering the multidimensional effects of insight on patients with schizophrenia, it would be beneficial to use scales such as VAGUS, which allow the insights of individuals to be evaluated in detail by both the clinician and the patient.

11. Pathogen and human NDPK-proteins promote AML cell survival via monocyte NLRP3-inflammasome activation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Trova S, Lin F, Lomada S

12. Correction: Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Odina wodier Roxb, an Indian Folk Remedy, through Inhibition of Toll-Like Receptor 4 Signaling Pathway.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Ojha D, Mukherjee H, Mondal S

13. Social world knowledge: Modeling and applications.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Lotan N, Minkov E.

14. Bayesian function registration with random truncation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Lu Y, Herbei R, Kurtek S.

15. Learning important common data elements from shared study data: The All of Us program analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Mayer CS, Huser V.

16. TERT expression is associated with metastasis from thin primaries, exhausted CD4+ T cells in melanoma and with DNA repair across cancer entities.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Kuhn CK, Meister J, Kreft S

17. The role of γ-aminobutyric acid and salicylic acid in heat stress tolerance under salinity conditions in Origanum vulgare L.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Garoosi MK, Sanjarian F, Chaichi M.

18. Bacterial cytological profiling reveals interactions between jumbo phage φKZ infection and cell wall active antibiotics in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Tsunemoto H, Sugie J, Enustun E

19. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and its legalisation in Africa: Insights from tertiary-level students in Ghana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Acquah F, Botchwey CO, Adoma PO

INTRODUCTION: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) and related activities have been a topic of debate and discussion among policymakers and stakeholders, as well as common citizens in the African region, especially in Ghana. The current anti-LGBTI-related bill being put before Ghana's Parliament signifies the intensity of the issue. Even though some studies have looked at some aspects of the issue, no study presently has explored people's opinion on the passage of any future anti-LGBTI and related legislations in Ghana. AIM: This study examined the perspective of tertiary-level students on the passage of anti-LGBTI legislation, as well as the non-physical factors that influence support for the passage of anti-LGBTI and related legislation in Ghana. METHODS: The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design using 1,001 tertiary-level students. The study used convenience sampling technique with an online closed-ended, structured survey questionnaire as the main data collection instrument. The data was then analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 29 at a 5% significance level. RESULTS: The results of the study indicated that majority of the respondents (81%) were in support of the passage of anti-LGBTI and related legislations. Their reasons included the health implications of LGBTI and related activities (63%), cultural and societal values (62%), religious reasons (54%), and western culture (25%). Also, almost half of the respondents (49%) held that health related perceptions about LGBTI have little or no empirical basis. The inferential analysis, further, revealed that even when age and sex assigned at birth are controlled, perceived health implications of LGBTI (β = 0.247, p = < .001), religious beliefs (β = 0.189, p = < .001), and cultural values (β = 0.218, p = < .001) positively predict the support for passage of anti-LGBTI legislation. CONCLUSIONS: People's level of support for the passage of anti-LGBTI legislation is influenced by several factors including religious beliefs, cultural values, and the perceived health implications of LGBTI. There is, however, the need for policy makers and other stakeholders to create awareness and educate the public about the various perceptions about LGBTI and related activities that are not scientifically legitimate.

20. Spatial distribution of mortality from colorectal cancer in the southern region of Brazil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Castilho MJC, Massago M, Arruda CE

21. Repurposing the Medicines for Malaria Venture's COVID Box to discover potent inhibitors of Toxoplasma gondii, and in vivo efficacy evaluation of almitrine bismesylate (MMV1804175) in chronically infected mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Dos Santos BR, Ramos ABDSB, de Menezes RPB

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affects about one-third of the world's population and can cause severe congenital, neurological and ocular issues. Current treatment options are limited, and there are no human vaccines available to prevent transmission. Drug repurposing has been effective in identifying anti-T. gondii drugs. In this study, the screening of the COVID Box, a compilation of 160 compounds provided by the "Medicines for Malaria Venture" organization, was conducted to explore its potential for repurposing drugs to combat toxoplasmosis. The objective of the present work was to evaluate the compounds' ability to inhibit T. gondii tachyzoite growth, assess their cytotoxicity against human cells, examine their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties, and investigate the potential of one candidate drug through an experimental chronic model of toxoplasmosis. Early screening identified 29 compounds that could inhibit T. gondii survival by over 80% while keeping human cell survival up to 50% at a concentration of 1 μM. The Half Effective Concentrations (EC50) of these compounds ranged from 0.04 to 0.92 μM, while the Half Cytotoxic Concentrations (CC50) ranged from 2.48 to over 50 μM. Almitrine was chosen for further evaluation due to its favorable characteristics, including anti-T. gondii activity at nanomolar concentrations, low cytotoxicity, and ADMET properties. Administering almitrine bismesylate (Vectarion®) orally at dose of 25 mg/kg/day for ten consecutive days resulted in a statistically significant (p < 0.001) reduction in parasite burden in the brains of mice chronically infected with T. gondii (ME49 strain). This was determined by quantifying the RNA of living parasites using real-time PCR. The presented results suggest that almitrine may be a promising drug candidate for additional experimental studies on toxoplasmosis and provide further evidence of the potential of the MMV collections as a valuable source of drugs to be repositioned for infectious diseases.

22. Modular pipeline for reconstruction and localization of implanted intracranial ECoG and sEEG electrodes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Soper DJ, Reich D, Ross A

23. Experimental study on pore structure characteristics and thermal conductivity of fibers reinforced foamed concrete.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Li L, Wang W, Wang Y

24. Does grit protect against the adverse effects of depression on academic achievement?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Kilgore J, Collins AC, Miller JAM

25. Prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety, and stress among people with disabilities during COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Roy N, Amin MB, Mamun MA

26. Critical and steady-state characteristics of delay propagation in an airport network.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Yao HG, Zhang H.

27. Murine typhus is a common cause of acute febrile illness in Bandung, Indonesia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Riswari SF, Prodjosoewojo S, Mony SR

28. Anthracological study of a Chalcolithic funerary deposit from Perdigões (Alentejo, Portugal): A new analytical methodology to establish the wood burning temperature.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Coradeschi G, Jiménez Morillo NT, Dias CB

29. Antenatal depression: Associations with birth and neonatal outcomes among women attending maternity care in Harare, Zimbabwe.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Kaiyo-Utete M, Langhaug L, Chingono A

INTRODUCTION: Antenatal depression is highly prevalent and is associated with negative birth and neonatal outcomes. However, the mechanisms and causality behind these associations remain poorly understood as they are varied. Given the variability in whether associations are present, there is need to have context-specific data to understand the complex factors that go into these associations. This study aimed to assess the associations between antenatal depression and birth and neonatal outcomes among women attending maternity care in Harare, Zimbabwe. METHODS: We followed 354 pregnant women in second or third trimester, attending antenatal care services in two randomly selected clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe. Antenatal depression was assessed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. Birth outcomes included birth weight, gestational age at delivery, mode of delivery, Apgar score, and initiation of breastfeeding within one-hour postdelivery. Neonatal outcomes at six weeks postdelivery included infant's weight, height, illness, feeding methods and maternal postnatal depressive symptoms. The association between antenatal depression and categorical and continuous outcomes were assessed by logistic regression and point-biserial correlation coefficient, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression determined the confounding effects on statistically significant outcomes. RESULTS: Prevalence of antenatal depression was 23.7%. It was associated with low birthweight [AOR = 2.30 (95% CI: 1.08-4.90)], exclusive breastfeeding [AOR = 0.42 (95%CI: 0.25-0.73)] and postnatal depressive symptoms [AOR = 4.99 (95%CI: 2.81-8.85)], but not with any other birth or neonatal outcomes measured. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of antenatal depression in this sample is high with significant associations demonstrated for birth weight, maternal postnatal depressive symptoms and infant feeding methods Effective management of antenatal depression is thus crucial to the promotion of maternal and child health.

30. Research on mobile learning platform interface design based on college students' visual attention characteristics.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Zhu T, Yang Y.

31. Developing and validating the Japanese version of the Referential Thinking Scale: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Sasaki J, Muranaka S, Arahata K

32. MICFuzzy: A maximal information content based fuzzy approach for reconstructing genetic networks.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Nakulugamuwa Gamage H, Chetty M, Lim S

33. Ethical challenges of using remote monitoring technologies for clinical research: A case study of the role of local research ethics committees in the RADAR-AD study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Muurling M, Pasmooij AMG, Koychev I

34. A national study confirms that Escherichia coli from Australian commercial layer hens remain susceptible to critically important antimicrobials.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Abraham R, Allison HS, Lee T

Controlling the use of the most critically important antimicrobials (CIAs) in food animals has been identified as one of the key measures required to curb the transmission of antimicrobial resistant bacteria from animals to humans. Expanding the evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of restricting CIA usage for preventing the emergence of resistance to key drugs amongst commensal organisms in animal production would do much to strengthen international efforts to control antimicrobial resistance (AMR). As Australia has strict controls on antimicrobial use in layer hens, and internationally comparatively low levels of poultry disease due to strict national biosecurity measures, we investigated whether these circumstances have resulted in curtailing development of critical forms of AMR. The work comprised a cross-sectional national survey of 62 commercial layer farms with each assessed for AMR in Escherichia coli isolates recovered from faeces. Minimum inhibitory concentration analysis using a panel of 13 antimicrobials was performed on 296 isolates, with those exhibiting phenotypic resistance to fluoroquinolones (a CIA) or multi-class drug resistance (MCR) subjected to whole genome sequencing. Overall, 53.0% of isolates were susceptible to all antimicrobials tested, and all isolates were susceptible to cefoxitin, ceftiofur, ceftriaxone, chloramphenicol and colistin. Resistance was observed for amoxicillin-clavulanate (9.1%), ampicillin (16.2%), ciprofloxacin (2.7%), florfenicol (2.4%), gentamicin (1.0%), streptomycin (4.7%), tetracycline (37.8%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (9.5%). MCR was observed in 21 isolates (7.0%), with two isolates exhibiting resistance to four antimicrobial classes. Whole genome sequencing revealed that ciprofloxacin-resistant (fluoroquinolone) isolates were devoid of both known chromosomal mutations in the quinolone resistance determinant regions and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes (qnr)-other than in one isolate (ST155) which carried the qnrS gene. Two MCR E. coli isolates with ciprofloxacin-resistance were found to be carrying known resistance genes including aadA1, dfrA1, strA, strB, sul1, sul2, tet(A), blaTEM-1B, qnrS1 and tet(A). Overall, this study found that E. coli from layer hens in Australia have low rates of AMR, likely due to strict control on antimicrobial usage achieved by the sum of regulation and voluntary measures.

35. Predatory journals: Perception, impact and use of Beall's list by the scientific community-A bibliometric big data study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Richtig G, Berger M, Koeller M

36. Stress symptoms and positive coping during coronavirus disease 2019: The need to look at health from a gender perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Romo-González T, Barranca-Enríquez A, León-Díaz R

37. Generation and characterization of two immortalized dermal fibroblast cell lines from the spiny mouse (Acomys).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Dill MN, Tabatabaei M, Kamat M

38. Comparative transcriptome analysis to identify putative genes involved in carvacrol biosynthesis pathway in two species of Satureja, endemic medicinal herbs of Iran.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Shams S, Ismaili A, Firouzabadi FN

39. A randomized stepped wedge trial of an intensive combination approach to roll back the HIV epidemic in Nigerian adolescents: iCARE Nigeria treatment support protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Taiwo BO, Kuhns LM, Omigbodun O

BACKGROUND: Nigeria is one of six countries with half the global burden of youth living with HIV. Interventions to date have been inadequate as AIDS-related deaths in Nigeria's youth have remained unchanged in recent years. The iCARE Nigeria HIV treatment support intervention, a combination of peer navigation and SMS text message medication reminders to promote viral suppression, demonstrated initial efficacy and feasibility in a pilot trial among youth living with HIV in Nigeria. This paper describes the study protocol for the large-scale trial of the intervention. METHODS: The iCARE Nigeria-Treatment study is a randomized stepped wedge trial of a combination (peer navigation and text message reminder) intervention, delivered to youth over a period of 48 weeks to promote viral suppression. Youth receiving HIV treatment at six clinical sites in the North Central and South Western regions of Nigeria were recruited for participation. Eligibility criteria included registration as a patient at participating clinics, aged 15-24 years, on antiretroviral therapy for at least three months, ability to understand and read English, Hausa, Pidgin English, or Yoruba, and intent to remain a patient at the study site during the study period. The six clinic sites were divided into three clusters and randomized to a sequence of control and intervention periods for comparison. The primary outcome is plasma HIV-1 viral load suppression, defined as viral load ≤ 200 copies/mL, in the intervention period versus the control period at 48 weeks of intervention. DISCUSSION: Evidence-based interventions to promote viral load suppression among youth in Nigeria are needed. This study will determine efficacy of a combination intervention (peer navigation and text message reminder) and collect data on potential implementation barriers and facilitators to inform scale-up if efficacy is confirmed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04950153, retrospectively registered July 6, 2021, https://clinicaltrials.gov/.

40. Multi-layer laser cutting of electrical steel sheets applied to electric machine laminations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Dodd N, Ballantyne E, Heron G

41. The influences of surface effect and elastic strain energy on structure and mechanical properties of dislocations in several diamond- and sphalerite-structured materials.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Zhang H.

42. Persistence and stability of generalized ribosome flow models with time-varying transition rates.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Vághy MA, Szederkényi G.

43. The associations between suicides, economic conditions and social isolation: Insights from Spain.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Blázquez-Fernández C, Cantarero-Prieto D.

44. Comparative study of multiple approaches for identifying cultivable microalgae population diversity from freshwater samples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Badr AA, Fouad WM.

45. Arterial stiffness and biological parameters: A decision tree machine learning application in hypertensive participants.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Vallée A.

Arterial stiffness, measured by arterial stiffness index (ASI), could be considered a main denominator in target organ damage among hypertensive subjects. Currently, no reported ASI normal references have been reported. The index of arterial stiffness is evaluated by calculation of a stiffness index. Predicted ASI can be estimated regardless to age, sex, mean blood pressure, and heart rate, to compose an individual stiffness index [(measured ASI-predicted ASI)/predicted ASI]. A stiffness index greater than zero defines arterial stiffness. Thus, the purpose of this study was 1) to determine determinants of stiffness index 2) to perform threshold values to discriminate stiffness index and then 3) to determine hierarchical associations of the determinants by performing a decision tree model among hypertensive participants without CV diseases. A study was conducted from 53,363 healthy participants in the UK Biobank survey to determine predicted ASI. Stiffness index was applied on 49,452 hypertensives without CV diseases to discriminate determinants of positive stiffness index (N = 22,453) from negative index (N = 26,999). The input variables for the models were clinical and biological parameters. The independent classifiers were ranked from the most sensitives: HDL cholesterol≤1.425 mmol/L, smoking pack years≥9.2pack-years, Phosphate≥1.172 mmol/L, to the most specifics: Cystatin c≤0.901 mg/L, Triglycerides≥1.487 mmol/L, Urate≥291.9 μmol/L, ALT≥22.13 U/L, AST≤32.5 U/L, Albumin≤45.92 g/L, Testosterone≥5.181 nmol/L. A decision tree model was performed to determine rules to highlight the different hierarchization and interactions between these classifiers with a higher performance than multiple logistic regression (p<0.001). The stiffness index could be an integrator of CV risk factors and participate in future CV risk management evaluations for preventive strategies. Decision trees can provide accurate and useful classification for clinicians.

46. SUNi mutagenesis: Scalable and uniform nicking for efficient generation of variant libraries.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Mighell TL, Toledano I, Lehner B.

47. Infection prevention and control in neonatal units: An ethnographic study of social and clinical interactions among healthcare providers and mothers in Ghana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Sunkwa-Mills G, Senah K, Tersbøl BP.

INTRODUCTION: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Infection prevention and control (IPC) remains an important strategy for preventing HAIs and improving the quality of care in hospital wards. The social environment and interactions in hospital wards are important in the quest to improve IPC. This study explored care practices and the interactions between healthcare providers and mothers in the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in two Ghanaian hospitals and discusses the relevance for IPC. METHODOLOGY: This study draws on data from an ethnographic study using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions involving 43 healthcare providers and 72 mothers, and participant observations in the wards between September 2017 and June 2019. The qualitative data were analysed thematically using NVivo 12 to facilitate coding. FINDINGS: Mothers of hospitalized babies faced various challenges in coping with the hospital environment. Mothers received sparse information about their babies' medical conditions and felt intimidated in the contact with providers. Mothers strategically positioned themselves as learners, guardians, and peers to enable them to navigate the clinical and social environment of the wards. Mothers feared that persistent requests for information might result in their being labelled "difficult mothers" or might impact the care provided to their babies. Healthcare providers also shifted between various positionings as professionals, caregivers, and gatekeepers, with the tendency to exercise power and maintain control over activities on the ward. CONCLUSION: The socio-cultural environment of the wards, with the patterns of interaction and power, reduces priority to IPC as a form of care. Effective promotion and maintenance of hygiene practices require cooperation, and that healthcare providers and mothers find common grounds from which to leverage mutual support and respect, and through this enhance care for mothers and babies, and develop stronger motivation for promoting IPC.

48. Health and wellness in the Australian coal mining industry: An analysis of pre-post findings from the RESHAPE workplace health promotion program.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Bezzina B A, Ashton L, Watson T

49. Contaminant occurrence, distribution and ecological risk assessment of phthalate esters in the Persian Gulf.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Khishdost M, Dobaradaran S, Goudarzi G

50. Effect of two weeks of training cessation on concentric and eccentric knee muscle strength in highly trained sprinters.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Yamashita D, Hirata K, Yamazaki K

51. Reduced protective efficacy of hepatitis B vaccine among fully vaccinated children in Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Adugna A, Demeke G, Toru M

52. Perceived sidedness and correlation to vertical movement asymmetries in young warmblood horses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Leclercq A, Lundblad J, Persson-Sjodin E

The prevalence of vertical asymmetries is high in "owner-sound" warmblood riding horses, however the origin of these asymmetries is unknown. This study investigated correlations between vertical asymmetries and motor laterality. Young warmblood riding horses (N = 65), perceived as free from lameness were evaluated on three visits, each comprising objective gait analysis (inertial measurement units system) and a rider questionnaire on perceived sidedness of the horse. A subgroup (N = 40) of horses were also subjected to a forelimb protraction preference test intended as an assessment of motor laterality. We hypothesized associations between vertical asymmetry and motor laterality as well as rider-perceived sidedness. Vertical asymmetry was quantified as trial means of the stride-by-stride difference between the vertical displacement minima and maxima of the head (HDmin, HDmax) and pelvis (PDmin, PDmax). Laterality indexes, based on counts of which limb was protracted, and binomial tests were used to draw conclusions from the preference tests. In the three visits, 60-70% of horses exhibited vertical asymmetries exceeding clinically used thresholds for ≥1 parameter, and 22% of horses exhibited a side preference in the preference test as judged by binomial tests. Linear mixed models identified a weak but statistically significant correlation between perceived hindlimb weakness and higher PDmin values attributable to either of the hindlimbs (p = 0.023). No other statistically significant correlations to vertical asymmetry were seen for any of the questionnaire answers tested. Tests of correlation between the absolute values of laterality index and asymmetry parameters (HDmin, HDmax, PDmin, PDmax) identified a weak correlation (p = 0.049) with PDmax, but when accounting for the direction of asymmetry and motor laterality, no correlations were seen for either of the asymmetry parameters. No convincing evidence of associations between vertical asymmetries and motor laterality were seen and further studies investigating motor laterality and the origin of vertical asymmetries are needed.

53. Predictors and trends of Caesarean section and breastfeeding in the Eastern Mediterranean region: Data from the cross-sectional Cyprus Women's Health Research (COHERE) Initiative.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Swift B, Taneri B, Cagnan I

INTRODUCTION: Caesarean section (C-section) is a life-saving procedure when medically indicated but unmet need and overuse can add to avoidable morbidity and mortality. It is not clear whether C-section has a negative impact on breastfeeding and there is limited data available on rates of C-section or breastfeeding from Northern Cyprus, an emerging region in Europe. This study aimed to investigate prevalence, trends and associations of C-section and breastfeeding in this population. METHODS: Using self-reported data from the representative Cyprus Women's Health Research (COHERE) Initiative, we used 2,836 first pregnancies to describe trends in C-section and breastfeeding between 1981 and 2017. Using modified Poisson regression, we examined the relationship between year of pregnancy and C-section and breastfeeding, as well as the association between C-section and breastfeeding prevalence and duration. RESULTS: C-section prevalence in first pregnancies increased from 11.1% in 1981 to 72.5% in 2017 with a relative risk of 2.60 (95%CI; 2.14-2.15) of babies being delivered by C-section after 2005 compared to before 1995, after full adjustment for demographic and maternal medical and pregnancy related factors. Prevalence of ever breastfeeding remained steady throughout the years at 88.7% and there was no significant association between breastfeeding initiation and the year of pregnancy, or demographic and maternal medical and pregnancy related variables. After full adjustment, women who gave birth after 2005 were 1.24 (95%CI; 1.06-1.45) times more likely to breastfeed for >12 weeks compared to women who gave birth before 1995. There was no association between C-section and breastfeeding prevalence or length. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of C-section in this population is much higher than WHO recommendations. Public awareness campaigns surrounding choice during pregnancy and change in legal framework to allow for midwife-led continuity models of birthing care should be implemented. Further research is required to understand the reasons and drivers behind this high rate.

54. Gender-specific disease trajectories prior to the onset of COPD allow individualized screening and early intervention.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Hagmann M, Baty F, Rassouli F

BACKGROUND: Nation-wide hospitalization databases include diagnostic information at the level of an entire population over an extended period of time. Comorbidity network and early disease development can be unveiled. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an underdiagnosed condition for which it is crucial to identify early disease indicators. The identification of gender-specific conditions preceding the onset of COPD may reveal disease progression patterns allowing for early diagnosis and intervention. The objective of the study was to investigate the antecedent hospitalization history of patients newly diagnosed with COPD and to retrace a gender-specific trajectory of coded entities prior to the onset of COPD. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A population-wide hospitalization database including information about all hospitalizations in Switzerland between 2002 and 2018 was used. COPD cases were extracted from the database and comorbidities occurring prior to the onset of COPD identified. Comorbidities significantly over-represented in COPD compared with a 1:1, age- and sex-matched control population were identified and their longitudinal evolution was analyzed. RESULTS: Between 2002 and 2018, 697,714 hospitalizations with coded COPD were recorded in Switzerland. Sixty-two diagnoses were significantly over-represented before onset of COPD. These preceding comorbidities included both well-established conditions and novel links to COPD. Early pre-conditions included nicotine and alcohol abuse, obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Later comorbidities included atrial fibrillation, diseases of the genitourinary system and pneumonia. Atherosclerotic heart diseases were more prevalent in males, whereas hypothyroidism, varicose and intestinal disorders were more frequent in females. Disease trajectories were validated using an independent data set. CONCLUSIONS: Gender-specific disease trajectories highlight early indicators and pathogenetic links between COPD and antecedent diseases and could allow for early detection and intervention.

55. Pressure sensing mat as an objective and sensitive tool for the evaluation of lameness in rabbits.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

von der Ahe C, Marahrens H, Schwarze M

56. Increased tissue modulus and hardness in the TallyHO mouse model of early onset type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Arora D, Taylor EA, King KB

Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have a higher fracture risk compared to those without T2DM despite having higher bone mineral density (BMD). Thus, T2DM may alter other aspects of resistance to fracture beyond BMD such as bone geometry, microarchitecture, and tissue material properties. We characterized the skeletal phenotype and assessed the effects of hyperglycemia on bone tissue mechanical and compositional properties in the TallyHO mouse model of early-onset T2DM using nanoindentation and Raman spectroscopy. Femurs and tibias were harvested from male TallyHO and C57Bl/6J mice at 26 weeks of age. The minimum moment of inertia assessed by micro-computed tomography was smaller (-26%) and cortical porosity was greater (+490%) in TallyHO femora compared to controls. In three-point bending tests to failure, the femoral ultimate moment and stiffness did not differ but post-yield displacement was lower (-35%) in the TallyHO mice relative to that in C57Bl/6J age-matched controls after adjusting for body mass. The cortical bone in the tibia of TallyHO mice was stiffer and harder, as indicated by greater mean tissue nanoindentation modulus (+22%) and hardness (+22%) compared to controls. Raman spectroscopic mineral:matrix ratio and crystallinity were greater in TallyHO tibiae than in C57Bl/6J tibiae (mineral:matrix +10%, p < 0.05; crystallinity +0.41%, p < 0.10). Our regression model indicated that greater values of crystallinity and collagen maturity were associated with reduced ductility observed in the femora of the TallyHO mice. The maintenance of structural stiffness and strength of TallyHO mouse femora despite reduced geometric resistance to bending could potentially be explained by increased tissue modulus and hardness, as observed at the tibia. Finally, with worsening glycemic control, tissue hardness and crystallinity increased, and bone ductility decreased in TallyHO mice. Our study suggests that these material factors may be sentinels of bone embrittlement in adolescents with T2DM.

57. Public perception of scientists: Experimental evidence on the role of sociodemographic, partisan, and professional characteristics.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Sonmez B, Makarovs K, Allum N.

58. What factors determine users' knowledge payment decisions? A mixed-method study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Ying Q, Hoque MM, Lee SJ.

59. Prognostic value of the right ventricular ejection fraction using three-dimensional echocardiography: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Kitano T, Nabeshima Y, Nagata Y

AIMS: Three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) is a robust method for measuring the right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction (EF), which is closely associated with outcomes. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis (1) to examine the prognostic value of RVEF and (2) to compare its prognostic value with that of left ventricular (LV) EF and LV global longitudinal strain (GLS). We also performed individual patient data analysis to validate the results. METHODS AND RESULTS: We searched articles reporting the prognostic value of RVEF. Hazard ratios (HR) were re-scaled using the within-study standard deviation (SD). To compare predictive values of RVEF and LVEF or LVGLS, the ratio of HR related to a 1-SD reduction of RVEF versus LVEF or LVGLS was calculated. Pooled HR of RVEF and pooled ratio of HR were analyzed in a random-effects model. Fifteen articles with 3,228 subjects were included. Pooled HR of a 1-SD reduction of RVEF was 2.54 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.15-3.00). In subgroup analysis, RVEF was significantly associated with outcome in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (HR: 2.79, 95% CI: 2.04-3.82) and cardiovascular (CV) diseases (HR: 2.23, 95%CI: 1.76-2.83). In studies reporting HRs for both RVEF and LVEF or RVEF and LVGLS in the same cohort, RVEF had 1.8-fold greater prognostic power per 1-SD reduction than LVEF (ratio of HR: 1.81, 95%CI: 1.20-2.71), but had predictive value similar to that of LVGLS (ratio of HR: 1.10, 95%CI: 0.91-1.31) and to LVEF in patients with reduced LVEF (ratio of HR: 1.34, 95%CI: 0.94-1.91). In individual patient data analysis (n = 1,142), RVEF < 45% was significantly associated with worse CV outcome (HR: 4.95, 95% CI: 3.66-6.70), even in patients with reduced or preserved LVEF. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this meta-analysis highlight and support the use of RVEF assessed by 3DE to predict CV outcomes in routine clinical practice in patients with CV diseases and in those with PAH.

60. How do smoking, vaping, and nicotine affect people with epilepsy and seizures? A scoping review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Narrett JA, Khan W, Funaro MC

61. What mechanisms mediate prior probability effects on rapid-choice decision-making?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Puri R, Hinder MR, Heathcote A.

62. Temporal and spatial trends in road traffic fatalities from 2001 to 2019 in Shandong Province, China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Wang T, Yao ZY, Liu BP

63. Piloting the informed health choices resources in Barcelona primary schools: A mixed methods study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Jofra LS, Alonso-Coello P, Martínez EC

INTRODUCTION: The main objective of the Informed Health Choices (IHC) project is to teach people to assess treatment claims and make informed health choices. For this purpose, the IHC learning resources were developed for primary school children. The aim of this study is to explore students' and teachers' experience when using the IHC resources in primary schools in Barcelona (Spain). METHODS: We conducted a mixed methods study for piloting the IHC resources in a convenience sample of primary schools in Barcelona. The intervention included a workshop with teachers, and nine lessons with students. We collected data using multiple approaches. We performed quantitative and qualitative analyses, and integrated the findings in a joint display. Finally, we formulated recommendations for using the IHC resources in this setting. RESULTS: Two schools, with a total of 143 students in 4th and 5th grade and six teachers, participated in the study. One school followed the suggested IHC teaching plan and competed all the lessons; the other school modified the plan substantially and did not complete all the lessons. Overall, students and teachers from both schools understood, were interested in, and were able to apply the content of the lessons. During the lessons, the textbook was useful for students; nevertheless, for the teachers, the usefulness of the IHC resources was variable. Teachers adapted the IHC resources to increase student participation and used Information and Communications Technologies tools. We observed more facilitators than barriers to teach the lessons. The teachers suggested some ideas to improve the lessons based on activities they developed and implemented. The integration analysis showed great convergence of the quantitative and qualitative findings. We propose seven recommendations for using the IHC resources in this setting. CONCLUSIONS: Students and teachers from primary schools in Barcelona showed a positive experience when using IHC resources; however, these resources should be adapted to promote classroom participation.

64. Effectiveness of mental health interventions for older adults in South Asia: A scoping review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Mazumder H, Faizah F, Gain EP

OBJECTIVE: Mental health problems among older adults are becoming a growing public health concern in South Asia due to continued changes in population dynamics caused by declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy. This scoping review aimed to explore and summarize evidence about mental health interventions and their impacts on geriatric mental health and highlight gaps and areas for future research. METHODS: We searched six electronic databases and additional sources for experimental/non-experimental studies evaluating the effectiveness of geriatric mental health interventions in eight countries in the South Asia region from the date of inception of each database up to August 5, 2022. Following the preliminary screening, we extracted data from the eligible articles using a Microsoft Excel data extraction worksheet. We followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines for this scoping review and reported evidence adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. RESULTS: From a total of 3432 potential articles retrieved, 19 were included in this review following pre-determined eligibility criteria. Across studies, mental health interventions can be broadly categorized into the following types- 1) traditional Yoga, Tai chi, or other meditative movements; 2) behavioral, occupational, or learning-based interventions; 3) tech-based interventions; 4) music therapy; and 5) new healthcare model. The evidence was predominantly based on India (n = 16), whereas three articles were identified from Pakistan. No article was found from six other South Asian countries. Depression and anxiety were the most frequent mental health outcomes, followed by quality of life, cognitive function, self-esteem, physical performance, and many more. CONCLUSION: Although limited, this review found various interventions that have varying effects on different geriatric mental health outcomes. A handful of evidence on mental health intervention in South Asia indicates a lack of acknowledgment that may develop a serious paucity of geriatric mental health practice. Therefore, future researchers are encouraged to conduct empirical studies to understand disease burden, including associated factors of geriatric mental health, which may help to construct contextually appropriate mental health interventions in this region.

65. RNA structural probing of guanine and uracil nucleotides in yeast.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Xiao K, Ghalei H, Khoshnevis S.

66. Can red tourism lead to spiritual transformation? Evidence from tourists visiting the Red Army Long March Xiangjiang Battle Memorial Park.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Zhou H, Zhang Q, Jiang Y

67. Aqueous extract of Cordyceps cicadae (Miq.) promotes hyaluronan synthesis in human skin fibroblasts: A potential moisturizing and anti-aging ingredient.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Shao L, Jiang S, Li Y

Cordyceps cicadae (Miq.) is an edible fungus with unique and valuable medicinal properties that is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, but its anti-aging effects on the skin fibroblast are not well studied. The aim of the present study was to analyze the active components of aqueous C. cicadae extract (CCE), determine the effects of CCE on hyaluronan synthesis in human skin fibroblasts, and explore the underlying mechanisms. The results of this study indicate that CCE was rich in polysaccharides, five alditols (mainly mannitol), eight nucleosides, protein, and polyphenols, which were present at concentrations of 62.7, 110, 8.26, 35.7, and 3.8 mg/g, respectively. The concentration of extract required to inhibit 50% of 2,2-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazo-line-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging capacities were 0.36 ± 0.03 and 4.54 ± 0.10 mg/mL, respectively, indicating that CCE exhibits excellent antioxidant activities. CCE showed no cytotoxicity to skin fibroblasts at concentrations ≤ 100 μg/mL, and promoted HA synthesis in fibroblasts. Treatment of fibroblast cells with 100 μg/mL CCE enhances the HA content to 1293 ± 142 ng/mL, which is significantly more than that in the non-treatment (NT) group (p = 0.0067). Further, RNA sequencing detected 1,192 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in CCE-treated fibroblasts, among which 417 were upregulated and 775 were downregulated. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes (KEGG) and Genomes pathway (GO) analysis based on RNA sequencing revealed that CCE mainly affected cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction regulated by HA synthesis-related genes. CCE upregulated HA synthase 2 (HAS2), epidermal growth factor (EGF)-related genes, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor, C-C motif chemokine ligand 2, interleukin 1 receptor-associated kinase 2, and other genes related to fibroblast differentiation and proliferation. CCE downregulated the gene of matrix metallopeptidase 12 (MMP12), which leads to cell matrix loss. RT-qPCR further verified CCE significantly upregulated HAS2 expression and significantly downregulated MMP12 expression, thus promoting hyaluronan synthesis. CCE shows potential as a moisturizer and anti-aging agent in functional foods and cosmetics.

68. Association between blood lipid levels and risk of gastric cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Xu S, Fan Y, Tan Y

OBJECTIVE: The association between blood lipid levels and the risk of gastric cancer (GC) is well known. Therefore, to clarify this association, all relevant prospective cohort studies were included in this meta-analysis. METHODS: Our study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022354899) prior to its commencement. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the PRISMA recommendations. Chinese databases (CNKI, CBM, Wanfang, and VIP) and English databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) were systematically searched up to October 2022. This study included all relevant cohort studies that reported hazard ratios (HRs) or relative risks (RRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) to examine the association between various lipid profiles (e.g., total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and the risk of developing gastric cancer (GC). Fixed effects or random effects models were used based on the level of heterogeneity among the studies, and these models were employed to obtain pooled hazard ratios. Additionally, sensitivity analysis and publication bias analysis were conducted to ensure the robustness and reliability of the findings. RESULTS: After conducting a systematic search, a total of 10 studies were selected out of 10,525 papers involving a total of 5,564,520 individuals. Among these individuals, there were 41,408 GC cases. The analysis revealed that the highest versus lowest serum total cholesterol (TC) concentration was associated with a pooled hazard ratio of 0.89 (95% CI = 0.87-0.92, I2 = 15%). For triglycerides (TGs), the hazard ratio was 1.00 (95% CI = 0.96-1.04, I2 = 37%), while for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), the hazard ratio was 0.90 (95% CI = 0.86-0.93, I2 = 0%). The hazard ratio for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was 0.96 (95% CI = 0.91-1.00, I2 = 0%). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of this meta-analysis, it was found that serum TC and HDL-C levels were inversely correlated with the risk of GC. No association was observed between serum TG levels and the risk of GC. Similarly, no association was found between serum LDL-C levels and the risk of GC.

69. Phenotypic quantification of root spatial distribution along circumferential direction for field paddy-wheat.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Chen X, Tang Y, Duan Q

Plant roots are essential for water and nutrient absorption, anchoring, mechanical support, metabolite storage and interaction with the surrounding soil environment. A comprehensive understanding of root traits provides an opportunity to build ideal roots architectural system that provides improved stability and yield advantage in adverse target environments caused by soil quality degradation, climate change, etc. However, we hypothesize that quantitative indicators characterizing root system are still need to be supplemented. Features describing root growth and distribution, until now, belong mostly to 2D indicators or reflect changes in the root system with a depth of soil layers but are rarely considered in a spatial region along the circumferential direction. We proposed five new indicators to quantify the dynamics of the root system architecture (RSA) along its eight-part circumferential orientations with visualization technology which consists of in-situ field root samplings, RSA digitization, and reconstruction according to previous research based on field experiments that conducted on paddy-wheat cultivation land with three fertilization rates. The experimental results showed that the growth space of paddy-wheat root is mainly restricted to a cylinder with a diameter of 180 mm and height of 200 mm at the seedlings stage. There were slow fluctuating trends in growth by the mean values of five new indicators within a single volume of soil. The fluctuation of five new indicators was indicated in each sampling time, which decreased gradually with time. Furthermore, treatment of N70 and N130 could similarly impact root spatial heterogeneity. Therefore, we concluded that the five new indicators could quantify the spatial dynamics of the root system of paddy-wheat at the seedling stage of cultivation. It is of great significance to the comprehensive quantification of crop roots in targeted breeding programs and the methods innovation of field crop root research.

70. Correction: Self-collected and clinician-collected anal swabs show modest agreement for HPV genotyping.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Dube Mandishora RS, Rounge TB, Fitzpatrick M

71. Physics scientific events in Brazil: Female participation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Anteneodo C, Brito C, Menezes DP.

72. Correction: Tracking the Luminal Exposure and Lymphatic Drainage Pathways of Intravaginal and Intrarectal Inocula Used in Nonhuman Primate Models of HIV Transmission.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Smedley J, Turkbey B, Bernardo ML

73. An investigation into the associations between psychological skills, anaerobic fitness, and aerobic fitness in elite Iranian taekwondo athletes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Nabilpour M, Samanipour MH, Bragazzi NL

74. Food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices among Jordanian women handling food at home during COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Al-Jaberi TM, Al-Nabulsi AA, Osaili TM

75. Trends in self-reported cost barriers to dental care in Ontario.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Abdelrehim M, Ravaghi V, Quiñonez C

76. Factors associated with recovery from stunting at 24 months of age among infants and young children enrolled in the Pediatric Development Clinic (PDC): A retrospective cohort study in rural Rwanda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Nemerimana M, Havugarurema S, Nshimyiryo A

INTRODUCTION: Stunting (low height/length-for-age) in early life is associated with poor long-term health and developmental outcomes. Nutrition interventions provided during the first 1,000 days of life can result in improved catch-up growth and development outcomes. We assessed factors associated with stunting recovery at 24 months of age among infants and young Children enrolled in Pediatric Development Clinics (PDC) who were stunted at 11 months of age. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included infants and young children who enrolled in PDCs in two rural districts in Rwanda between April 2014 and December 2018. Children were included in the study if their PDC enrollment happened within 2 months after birth, were stunted at 11 months of age (considered as baseline) and had a stunting status measured and analyzed at 24 months of age. We defined moderate stunting as length-for-age z-score (LAZ) < -2 and ≥-3 and severe stunting as LAZ <-3 based on the 2006 WHO child growth standards. Stunting recovery at 24 months of age was defined as the child's LAZ changing from <-2 to > -2. We used logistic regression analysis to investigate factors associated with stunting recovery. The factors analyzed included child and mother's socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. RESULTS: Of the 179 children who were eligible for this study, 100 (55.9%) were severely stunted at age 11 months. At 24 months of age, 37 (20.7%) children recovered from stunting, while 21 (21.0%) severely stunted children improved to moderate stunting and 20 (25.3%) moderately-stunted children worsened to severe stunting. Early stunting at 6 months of age was associated with lower odds of stunting recovery, with the odds of stunting recovery being reduced by 80% (aOR: 0.2; 95%CI: 0.07-0.81) for severely stunted children and by 60% (aOR: 0.4; 95% CI: 0.16-0.97) for moderately stunted children (p = 0.035). Lower odds of stunting recovery were also observed among children who were severely stunted at 11 months of age (aOR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1-0.6, p = 0.004). No other maternal or child factors were statistically significantly associated with recovery from stunting at 24 months in our final adjusted model. CONCLUSION: A substantial proportion of children who were enrolled in PDC within 2 months after birth and were stunted at 11 months of age recovered from stunting at 24 months of age. Children who were severely stunted at 11 months of age (baseline) and those who were stunted at 6 months of age were less likely to recover from stunting at 24 months of age compared to those with moderate stunting at 11 months and no stunting at 6 months of age, respectively. More focus on prevention and early identification of stunting during pregnancy and early life is important to the healthy growth of a child.

77. Mining algorithm of accumulation sequence of unbalanced data based on probability matrix decomposition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Mou S, Zhang H.

78. I am a scientist: Overcoming biased assumptions around diversity in science through explicit representation of scientists in lectures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Henri DC, Coates K, Hubbard K.

The lack of diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a significant issue for the sector. Many organisations and educators have identified lack of representation of historically marginalised groups within teaching materials as a potential barrier to students feeling that a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) career is something that they can aspire to. A key barrier to addressing the issue is providing accessible and effective evidence-based approaches for educators to implement. In this study, we explore the potential for adapting presentation slides within lectures to 'humanise' the scientists involved, presenting their full names and photographs alongside a Harvard style reference. The intervention stems from an initial assumption that many formal scientific referencing systems are demographic-neutral and exacerbate prevailing perceptions that STEM is not diverse. We adopt a questionnaire based methodology surveying 161 bioscience undergraduates and postgraduates at a UK civic university. We first establish that students project assumptions about the gender, location, and ethnicity of the author of a hypothetical reference, with over 50% of students assuming they are male and Western. We then explore what students think of the humanised slide design, concluding that many students see it as good pedagogical practice with some students positively changing their perceptions about diversity in science. We were unable to compare responses by participant ethnic group, but find preliminary evidence that female and non-binary students are more likely to see this as good pedagogical practice, perhaps reflecting white male fragility in being exposed to initiatives designed to highlight diversity. We conclude that humanised powerpoint slides are a potentially effective tool to highlight diversity of scientists within existing research-led teaching, but highlight that this is only a small intervention that needs to sit alongside more substantive work to address the lack of diversity in STEM.

79. Knowledge and attitudes of thalassaemia among high-risk indigenous university students in Bangladesh: A pilot study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Hasan MM, Uddin KMK, Lokman SM

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Thalassaemia is an inherited life-threatening but preventable haemoglobin disorder. South Asian countries, including Bangladesh, are the hotspots of the world's thalassaemia belt. Indigenous communities are underprivileged and vulnerable to genetic disorders, including thalassaemia. Understanding the perspectives of thalassaemia of future community leaders (indigenous university students) is critical for developing a tailor-made preventive strategy relevant to their communities. In this study, we aimed to assess the level of knowledge and attitudes towards thalassaemia among indigenous university students and determine their thalassaemia carrier status. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 251 tribal university students using a published questionnaire between May and October 2018. The main survey instrument consisted of 22 anonymous questions. Descriptive and inferential statistical procedures were used for data analysis. RESULTS: More than half (55%) of the indigenous students had never heard the term 'thalassaemia'. Around half (49%) of the marriages in their communities were consanguineous. The mean knowledge score was abysmal (4.91±2.65 out of a 12-point scale), which was not associated with the consanguinity of their parent but home districts. Multiple linear regression of demographic variables on the total knowledge score revealed that the overall knowledge is significantly associated with their home district (p< 0.05). Participants from science disciplines scored more than 1 point than their counterparts from Arts and Humanities (p = 0.08615). CONCLUSIONS: For the first time, this study has identified knowledge gaps and misperceptions about thalassaemia among university students from indigenous communities in the southeastern region of Bangladesh. This study serves as a baseline for future interventions (premarital and prenatal screening) targeting future community leaders.

80. Association between fall-related serious injury and activity during fall in an acute care hospital.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Kobayashi K, Kido N, Wakabayashi S

81. Simulation of supply chain disruptions considering establishments and power outages.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Inoue H, Okumura Y, Torayashiki T

82. Integration degree of China's the new development pattern of dual circulation and industrial green development.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

He J.

83. An edge-based approach for virtual network embedding based on the graph edit distance.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Xu Z, Zhuang L, He M

84. Clinical and economic burden of pneumococcal disease among adults in Sweden: A population-based register study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Zarabi N, Aldvén M, Sjölander S

Pneumococcal disease is a major cause of clinical and economic burden worldwide. This study investigated the burden of pneumococcal disease in Swedish adults. A retrospective population-based study was conducted using Swedish national registers, including all adults aged ≥18 years with a diagnosis of pneumococcal disease (defined as pneumococcal pneumonia, meningitis, or septicemia) in inpatient or outpatient specialist care between 2015-2019. Incidence and 30-day case fatality rates, healthcare resource utilization, and costs were estimated. Results were stratified by age (18-64, 65-74, and ≥75 years) and the presence of medical risk factors. A total of 10,391 infections among 9,619 adults were identified. Medical factors associated with higher risk for pneumococcal disease were present in 53% of patients. These factors were associated with increased pneumococcal disease incidence in the youngest cohort. In the cohort aged 65-74 years, having a very high risk for pneumococcal disease was not associated with an increased incidence. Pneumococcal disease incidence was estimated at 12.3 (18-64), 52.1 (64-74), and 85.3 (≥75) per 100,000 population. The 30-day case fatality rate increased with age (18-64: 2.2%, 65-74: 5.4%, ≥75: 11.7%), and was highest among septicemia patients aged ≥75 (21.4%). The 30-day average number of hospitalizations was 1.13 (18-64), 1.24 (64-74) and 1.31 (≥75). The average 30-day cost/infection was estimated at €4,467 (18-64), €5,278 (65-74), and €5,898 (≥75). The 30-day total direct cost of pneumococcal disease between 2015-2019 was €54.2 million, with 95% of costs from hospitalizations. The clinical and economic burden of pneumococcal disease in adults was found to increase with age, with nearly all costs associated with pneumococcal disease from hospitalizations. The 30-day case fatality rate was highest in the oldest age group, though not negligible in the younger age groups. The findings of this study can inform the prioritization of pneumococcal disease prevention in adult and elderly populations.

85. Integration of point-of-care screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension with COVID-19 rapid antigen screening in Johannesburg, South Africa.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Brennan AT, Vetter B, Majam M

86. Knowledge, attitude and practice of physicians and nurses at the cape coast teaching hospital in the Central Region of Ghana on spontaneous adverse drug reaction reporting.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Powell JF, Henneh IT, Ekor M.

Ghana's rate of reporting adverse drug reaction (ADRs) over the past years has consistently been below the WHO standard despite utilizing the spontaneous or voluntary reporting system. While underreporting undermines the pharmacovigilance system and poses a huge threat to public health safety, there is limited information on the perspectives of healthcare workers directly involved in drug administration. The present study investigated the knowledge, attitude and practice of physicians and nurses at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH) towards spontaneous reporting of ADRs (SR-ADRs). A descriptive cross-sectional survey was employed in the study. Pre-tested (Cronbach's alpha value of 0.72) and validated questionnaires comprising 37 open-ended and close-ended questions were administered to 44 doctors and 116 nurses at the CCTH who had been practicing for at least six months prior to study. Out of the 160 administered questionnaires, 86 was administered face-to-face and the remaining via e-mails. Descriptive analysis was performed and the results were presented in simple frequencies and percentages. Binary logistic regression model was used to test association of the independent variables with SR-ADRs. With a response rate of 86.4% for physicians and 59.5% for nurses, 38 (35.5%) physicians and 69 (64.5%) nurses completed the questionnaires and returned same. Majority (82.3%, 88) of the respondents knew that it is their responsibility to report ADRs although their knowledge levels was found to be inadequate (that is ≤80%) in majority (66.7%) of the text items that assessed knowledge levels. On the attitude of respondents, it was found that 57% (61) of them agreed that under-reporting was due to complacency whereas 80.4% (86) of them agreed that it was due the lack of adequate training. On the issues of practice, the prevalence of encountering, assisting in the management, and reporting of ADRs were 26.1% (28), 17.8% (19) and 7.5% (8) respectively. Also, nurses were 1.22 times more likely to encounter a patient with ADRs and twice more likely to fill and forward ADR form than doctors during management. Respondents with more than six months but less than one year of practice experience were more likely (AOR = 1.38, 95% CI: 2.72-7.3) to encounter a patient with ADRs as compared to those with just six months of practice experience. Furthermore, male respondents were more likely (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1-5.85) to encounter patients with ADRs but less likely (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.91-2.6) to fill and forward ADR form compared to their female counterparts. In conclusion, doctors and nurses at the CCTH had inadequate knowledge about ADRs and its existing pharmacovigilance systems, thus accounting for the low spontaneous ADRs reporting in the facility.

87. Correction: Heterogeneous expression of CFTR in insulin-secreting β-cells of the normal human islet.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Fulvio MD, Bogdani M, Velasco M

88. Cite-seeing and reviewing: A study on citation bias in peer review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Stelmakh I, Rastogi C, Liu R

89. Gene regulatory network inference in soybean upon infection by Phytophthora sojae.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Hale B, Ratnayake S, Flory A

Phytophthora sojae is a soil-borne oomycete and the causal agent of Phytophthora root and stem rot (PRR) in soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merrill). Yield losses attributed to P. sojae are devastating in disease-conducive environments, with global estimates surpassing 1.1 million tonnes annually. Historically, management of PRR has entailed host genetic resistance (both vertical and horizontal) complemented by disease-suppressive cultural practices (e.g., oomicide application). However, the vast expansion of complex and/or diverse P. sojae pathotypes necessitates developing novel technologies to attenuate PRR in field environments. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to couple high-throughput sequencing data and deep learning to elucidate molecular features in soybean following infection by P. sojae. In doing so, we generated transcriptomes to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during compatible and incompatible interactions with P. sojae and a mock inoculation. The expression data were then used to select two defense-related transcription factors (TFs) belonging to WRKY and RAV families. DNA Affinity Purification and sequencing (DAP-seq) data were obtained for each TF, providing putative DNA binding sites in the soybean genome. These bound sites were used to train Deep Neural Networks with convolutional and recurrent layers to predict new target sites of WRKY and RAV family members in the DEG set. Moreover, we leveraged publicly available Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) DAP-seq data for five TF families enriched in our transcriptome analysis to train similar models. These Arabidopsis data-based models were used for cross-species TF binding site prediction on soybean. Finally, we created a gene regulatory network depicting TF-target gene interactions that orchestrate an immune response against P. sojae. Information herein provides novel insight into molecular plant-pathogen interaction and may prove useful in developing soybean cultivars with more durable resistance to P. sojae.

90. Improved GWO and its application in parameter optimization of Elman neural network.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Liu W, Sun J, Liu G

91. Towards the development of a quality youth sport experience measure: Understanding participant and stakeholder perspectives.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Brown DMY, Cairney J, Azimi S

92. Adverse birth outcomes and associated factors among newborns delivered in Sao Tome & Principe: A case‒control study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Vasconcelos A, Sousa S, Bandeira N

BACKGROUND: Newborns with one-or-more adverse birth outcomes (ABOs) are at greater risk of mortality or long-term morbidity with health impacts into adulthood. Hence, identifying ABO-associated factors is crucial for devising relevant interventions. For this study, ABOs were defined as prematurity (PTB) for gestational age <37 weeks, low birth weight (LBW) <2.5 kg, macrosomia >4 kg, asphyxia for a 5-minute Apgar score <7, congenital anomalies, and neonatal sepsis. This study aimed to assess factors associated with ABOs among babies delivered at the only hospital of Sao Tome & Principe (STP), a resource-constrained sub-Saharan-Central African country. METHODS: A hospital-based unmatched case‒control study was conducted among newborns from randomly selected mothers. Newborns with one-or-more ABO were the cases (ABO group), while healthy newborns were the controls (no-ABO group). Data were collected by a face-to-face interview and abstracted from antenatal care (ANC) pregnancy cards and medical records. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify ABO-associated factors considering a level of significance of α = 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 519 newborns (176 with ABO and 343 no-ABO) were enrolled. The mean gestational age and birthweight of cases and controls were 36 (SD = 3.7) weeks with 2659 (SD = 881.44) g and 39.6 (SD = 1.0) weeks with 3256 (SD = 345.83) g, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, twin pregnancy [aOR 4.92, 95% CI 2.25-10.74], prolonged rupture of membranes [aOR 3.43, 95% CI 1.69-6.95], and meconium- fluid [aOR 1.59, 95% CI 0.97-2.62] were significantly associated with ABOs. Eight or more ANC contacts were found to be protective [aOR 0.33, 95% CI 0.18-0.60, p<0.001]. CONCLUSION: Modifiable factors were associated with ABOs in this study and should be considered in cost-effective interventions. The provision of high-quality ANC should be a priority. Twin pregnancies and intrapartum factors such as prolonged rupture of membranes and meconium-stained amniotic fluid are red flags for ABOs that should receive prompt intervention and follow-up.

93. "My wellbeing-their wellbeing "- An eHealth intervention for managing obesity in early care and education: Protocol for the Go NAPSACC Cares cluster randomized control trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Willis EA, Burney R, Hales D

94. Homocysteine levels in patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon: A meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Yu H, Wang BB, Zhao M

95. Robust performance comparison of PMSM for flight control applications in more electric aircraft.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 7

Karboua D, Belgacem T, Khan ZH

This paper describes a robust performance comparison of flight control actuation controllers based on a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in more electric aircraft (MEA). Recently, the PMSM has become a favorite for the flight control applications of more electric aircraft (MEA) due to their improved efficiency, higher torque, less noise, and higher reliability as compared to their counterparts. Thus, advanced nonlinear control techniques offer even better performance for the control of PMSM as noticed in this research. In this paper, three nonlinear approaches i.e. Feedback Linearization Control (FBL) through the cancellation of the non-linearity of the system, the stabilization of the system via Backstepping Control (BSC) using the Lyapunov candidate function as well as the robust performance with chattering minimization by applying the continuous approximation based Sliding Mode Control (SMC) are compared with generalized Field-Oriented Controller (FOC). The comparison of FOC, FBL, BSC and SMC shows that the nonlinear controllers perform well under varying aerodynamic loads during flight. However, the performance of the sliding mode control is found superior as compared to the other three controllers in terms of better performance characteristics e.g. response time, steady-state error etc. as well as the control robustness in the presence of the uncertain parameters of the PMSM model and variable load torque acting as a disturbance. In essence, the peak of the tolerance band is less than 20% for all nonlinear and FOC controller, while it is less than 5% for SMC. Steady state error for the SMC is least (0.01%) as compared to other three controllers. Moreover, the SMC controller is able to withstand 50% parameter variation and loading torque of 10 N.m without significant changes in performance. Six simulation scenarios are used to analyze the performance and robustness which depict that the sliding mode controller performs well in terms of the desired performance for MEA application.

96. Adverse pregnancy outcomes among women in Norway with gestational diabetes using three diagnostic criteria.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Rai AS, Sletner L, Jenum AK

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to examine the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes in women diagnosed with GDM by the World Health Organization (WHO) 1999 criteria, and in those retrospectively identified by the Norwegian-2017 and WHO-2013 criteria but not by WHO-1999 criteria. We also examine the effect of maternal overweight/obesity and ethnicity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We used pooled data from four Norwegian cohorts (2002-2013), encompassing 2970 mother-child pairs. Results from universally offered 75-g oral glucose tolerance tests measuring fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 2-hour glucose (2HG) were used to assign women into three diagnostic groups: Diagnosed and treated by WHO-1999 (FPG≥7.0 or (2HG ≥7.8 mmol/L), identified by WHO-2013 (FPG ≥5.1 or 2HG ≥8.5 mmol/L), and identified by Norwegian-2017 criteria (FPG ≥5.3 or 2HG ≥9.0 mmol/L). Perinatal outcomes included large-for-gestational-age (LGA) infants, cesarean section, operative vaginal delivery, preterm birth and preeclampsia. RESULTS: Compared to the non-GDM group, women diagnosed with GDM by either of the three criteria had an increased risk of large-for-gestational-age infants (adjusted odds ratios (OR) 1.7-2.2). Those identified by the WHO-2013 and Norwegian-2017 criteria but not diagnosed and treated by WHO-1999 criteria had an additional increased risk of cesarean section (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.02,1.83 and 1.44, 95% CI 1.03,2.02, respectively) and operative vaginal delivery (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.1,1.7 and 1.5, 95% CI 1.1,2.0, respectively). The proportions of LGA neonates and cesarean section were higher for women with GDM in both normal-weight and overweight/obese women. Asians had a lower risk of delivering large-for-gestational-age infants than Europeans applying national birthweight references, but maternal glucose values were similarly positively associated with birthweight in all ethnic groups. CONCLUSIONS: Women who met the WHO-2013 and Norwegian-2017 criteria, but were not diagnosed by the WHO-1999 criteria and therefore not treated, had an increased risk of LGA, cesarean section and operative vaginal delivery compared to women without GDM.

97. Hepatitis C (HCV) among Black and Latino sexual minority men (SMM) in the Southern United States: Protocol of a prospective cohort epidemiological study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Ogunbajo A, Brooks M, Oke T

BACKGROUND: Sexual minority men (SMM) who engage in condomless anal sex and injection drug use are at increased risk for viral Hepatitis C (HCV) infection. Additionally, studies have found racial disparities in HCV cases across the United States. However, very few epidemiological studies have examined factors associated with HCV infection in HIV-negative Black and Latino SMM. This paper describes the rationale, design, and methodology of a prospective epidemiological study to quantify the HCV prevalence and incidence and investigate the individual and environmental-level predictors of HCV infection among HIV-negative, Black and Latino SMM in the Southern U.S. METHODS: Beginning in September 2021, 400 Black and Latino SMM, aged 18 years and above, will be identified, recruited and retained over 12-months of follow-up from two study sites: greater Washington, DC and Dallas, TX areas. After written informed consent, participants will undergo integrated HIV/STI testing, including HCV, HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Subsequently, participants will complete a quantitative survey-including a social and sexual network inventory-and an exit interview to review test results and confirm participants' contact information. Individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors will be assessed at baseline and follow-up visits (6 and 12 months). The primary outcomes are HCV prevalence and incidence. Secondary outcomes are sexual behavior, substance use, and psychosocial health. RESULTS: To date (March 2023) a total of 162 participants have completed baseline visits at the DC study site and 161 participants have completed baseline visits at the Texas study site. CONCLUSION: This study has several implications that will directly affect the health and wellness of Black and Latino SMM. Specifically, our results will inform more-focused HCV clinical guidelines (i.e., effective strategies for HCV screening among Black/Latino SMM), intervention development and other prevention and treatment activities and development of patient assistance programs for the treatment of HCV among uninsured persons, especially in Deep South, that have yet to expand Medicaid.

98. Correction: Evaluating the detection ability of a range of epistasis detection methods on simulated data for pure and impure epistatic models.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Russ D, Williams JA, Cardoso VR

99. Efficacy and safety of non-pharmacological therapy under the guidance of TCM theory in the treatment of anxiety in patients with myocardial infarction: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Zhao W, Wang Y, Hou J

BACKGROUND: With the increasing pressures of modern life and work, combined with a growing older population, the incidence of comorbid anxiety and myocardial infarction (MI) is increasing. Anxiety increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with MI and significantly affects their quality of life. However, there is an ongoing controversy regarding the pharmacological treatment of anxiety in patients with MI. The concomitant use of commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antiplatelet medications such as aspirin and clopidogrel may increase the risk of bleeding. Conventional exercise-based rehabilitation therapies have shown limited success in alleviating anxiety symptoms. Fortunately, non-pharmacological therapies based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, such as acupuncture, massage, and qigong, have demonstrated promising efficacy in treating MI and comorbid anxiety. These therapies have been widely used in community and tertiary hospital settings in China to provide new treatment options for patients with anxiety and MI. However, current studies on non-pharmacological TCM-based therapies have predominantly featured small sample sizes. This study aims to comprehensively analyze and explore the effectiveness and safety of these therapies in treating anxiety in patients with MI. METHOD: We will systematically search six English and four Chinese databases by employing a pre-defined search strategy and adhering to the unique rules and regulations of each database to identify studies that fulfilled our inclusion criteria, to qualify for inclusion, patients must be diagnosed with both MI and anxiety, and they must have undergone non-pharmacological TCM therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, or qigong, whereas the control group received standard treatments. The primary outcome measure will be alterations in anxiety scores, as assessed using anxiety scales, with secondary outcomes encompassing the evaluations of cardiopulmonary function and quality of life. We will utilize RevMan 5.3 to conduct a meta-analysis of the collected data, and subgroup analyses will be executed based on distinct types of non-pharmacological TCM therapies and outcome measures. RESULTS: A narrative summary and quantitative analysis of the existing evidence on the treatment of anxiety patients with MI using non-pharmacological therapies guided by Traditional Chinese Medicine theory. CONCLUSION: This systematic review will investigate whether non-pharmacological interventions guided by TCM theory are effective and safe for anxiety in patients with MI, and provide evidence-based support for their clinical application. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42022378391.

100. Risk factors for COVID-19 infections among health care workers in Ghana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Lartey M, Kenu E, Ganu VJ

INTRODUCTION: Health care workers (HCWs) are crucial to the fight against COVID-19 and are at risk of being infected. We sought to determine the risk factors and associations of COVID-19 among HCWs in Ghana during the period of the pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A case-control study was conducted using the WHO COVID-19 HCWs exposure risk assessment tool. A HCW was categorized as "high risk" for COVID-19 if s/he did not respond "always, as recommended" to adherence to Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures during a healthcare interaction. A HCW was categorized as "low risk" if s/he responded "always, as recommended" to adherence to IPC measures. We used univariate and multiple logistic regression models to determine associated risk factors. Statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: A total of 2402 HCWs were recruited and the mean age was 33.2±7.1 years. Almost 87% (1525/1745) of HCWs had high risk for COVID-19 infection. Risk factors identified were profession (doctor- aOR: 2.13, 95%CI: 1.54-2.94; radiographer-aOR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.44-3.09)), presence of comorbidity (aOR: 1.89, 95%CI: 1.29-2.78), community exposure to virus (aOR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.03-1.55), not performing hand hygiene before and after aseptic procedures performed (aOR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.05-2.45); not frequently decontaminating high-touch surfaces always as recommended (aOR: 2.31, 95%CI: 1.65-3.22; p = 0.001) and contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient (aOR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.15-1.67). Among those who came into any form of contact with confirmed COVID-19 patient, providing direct care (aOR: 2.0, 95%CI: 1.36-2.94), face-to-face contact (aOR: 2.23, 95%CI: 1.41-3.51), contact with environment/materials used by COVID-19 patient (aOR: 2.25, 95%CI: 1.45-3.49) and presence during conduct of aerosol generating procedures (aOR: 2.73, 95%CI: 1.74-4.28) were associated with COVID-19 infection. CONCLUSION: Non-adherence to IPC guidelines puts HCWs at increased risk of COVID-19 infection thus ensuring IPC adherence is key to reducing this risk.

101. Tissue-specific reprogramming of glutamine metabolism maintains tolerance to sepsis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Leitner BP, Lee WD, Zhu W

102. Diagnostic test accuracy of ultrasound for orbital cellulitis: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Anwar MR, Mahant S, Agbaje-Ojo T

BACKGROUND: Periorbital and orbital cellulitis are inflammatory conditions of the eye that can be difficult to distinguish using clinical examination alone. Computer tomography (CT) scans are often used to differentiate these two infections and to evaluate for complications. Orbital ultrasound (US) could be used as a diagnostic tool to supplement or replace CT scans as the main diagnostic modality. No prior systematic review has evaluated the diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of ultrasound compared to cross-sectional imaging. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of studies evaluating the DTA of orbital ultrasound compared with cross-sectional imaging, to diagnose orbital cellulitis. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched from inception to August 10, 2022. All study types were included that enrolled patients of any age with suspected or diagnosed orbital cellulitis who underwent ultrasound and a diagnostic reference standard (i.e., CT or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]). Two authors screened titles/abstracts for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. RESULTS: Of the 3548 studies identified, 20 were included: 3 cohort studies and 17 case reports/series. None of the cohort studies directly compared the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound with CT or MRI, and all had high risk of bias. Among the 46 participants, diagnostic findings were interpretable in 18 (39%) cases which reported 100% accuracy. We were unable to calculate sensitivity and specificity due to limited data. In the descriptive analysis of the case reports, ultrasound was able to diagnose orbital cellulitis in most (n = 21/23) cases. CONCLUSION: Few studies have evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of orbital ultrasound for orbital cellulitis. The limited evidence based on low quality studies suggests that ultrasound may provide helpful diagnostic information to differentiate orbital inflammation. Future research should focus studies to determine the accuracy of orbital US and potentially reduce unnecessary exposure to radiation.

103. Rhizosphere soil properties of waxy sorghum under different row ratio configurations in waxy sorghum-soybean intercropping systems.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Shao M, Wang C, Zhou L

To overcome the continuous planting obstacle and promote the sustainable production of waxy sorghum, a two-years field experiment was performed to determine the responses of waxy sorghum rhizosphere soil properties to different row ratio configurations in waxy sorghum-soybean intercropping systems. The treatments included five row ratio configurations, which were two rows of waxy sorghum intercropped with one row of soybean (2W1S), two rows of waxy sorghum intercropped with two rows of soybean (2W2S), three rows of waxy sorghum intercropped with one row of soybean (3W1S), three rows of waxy sorghum intercropped with two rows of soybean (3W2S), and three rows of waxy sorghum intercropped with three rows of soybean (3W3S), and sole cropping waxy sorghum (SW) was used as control. The nutrients, enzyme activities, and microbes of waxy sorghum rhizosphere soil were investigated at the jointing, anthesis, and maturity stages. Results showed that rhizosphere soil properties of waxy sorghum were significantly affected by row ratio configurations of waxy sorghum intercropped soybean. Among all treatments, the performances of rhizosphere soil nutrients contents, enzymes activities, and microbes contents were 2W1S > 3W1S > 3W2S > 3W3S > 2W2S > SW. Compared to SW treatment, the 2W1S treatment increased the organic matter, total N, total P, total K, gram-negative bacteria phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs), and gram-positive bacteria PLFAs contents and catalase, polyphenol oxidase, and urease activities by 20.86%-25.67%, 34.33%-70.05%, 23.98%-33.83%, 44.12%-81.86%, 74.87%-194.32%, 81.59-136.59%, 91.44%-114.07%, 85.35%-146.91%, and 36.32%-63.94%, respectively. Likewise, the available N, available P, available K, total PLFAs, fungus PLFAs, actinomycetes PLFAs, and bacteria PLFAs contents under the 2W1S treatment were 1.53-2.41, 1.32-1.89, 1.82-2.05, 1.96-2.91, 3.59-4.44, 9.11-12.56, and 1.81-2.71 times than those of SW treatment, respectively. Further, the determining factors of soil microbes were total K, catalase, and polyphenol oxidase for total microbes, bacteria, and gram-negative bacteria, total P and available K for fungus, available N, available K, and polyphenol oxidase for actinomycetes, and total K and polyphenol oxidase for gram-positive bacteria. In conclusion, the 2W1S treatment was the optimal row ratio configuration of waxy sorghum intercropped with soybean, which can improve the rhizosphere soil quality and promote the sustainable production of waxy sorghum.

104. The viral picture of well-being: Biggest concerns, losses, and unintended gifts of COVID-19 in the Philippines.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Tuason MT, Perniciaro K, Lamadrid R

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed more than anticipated about global human functioning and resiliency. This Philippines-based study replicated a recent U.S. COVID analysis on psychological well-being (PWB). Factors examined herein were grouped into categories for analysis: 1) predictors of PWB, 2) areas of greatest stress or worry (biggest concerns), 3) perceived or real losses across SES, and 4) identified "unintended gifts" across PWB. Participants (n = 1345) were volunteers who responded to an online survey from August to September 2021, peak of the Delta variant. Three general groups of predictors (biological, psychological, and socio-economic) contributed to PWB. A regression model containing a total of 11 variables was significant, F(11, 1092) = 116.02, p < .00, explaining 53.9% of the variance. The model indicated PWB was significantly predicted by physical health, age, spirituality, emotional loneliness, social loneliness, sense of agency, and income. The strongest predictors of PWB were a sense of agency, social loneliness, and spirituality. Qualitative data analysis was conducted examining biggest concerns, losses due to COVID, and unintended gifts. Top ranking participant concerns were the health of family and friends, personal wellness, and governmental inefficiency/lack of concern. Losses compared to pre-COVID life were analyzed by SES group, with the most frequent responses being missing face-to-face interactions and the freedom to go/do what they please. Low SES groups were most likely to endorse missing everyday routine and experiencing changes in housing conditions due to the pandemic. Unintended gifts of COVID explored by PWB, high PWB individuals significantly appreciated intentional time with family and friends, deepening their spiritual lives, the ability to work from home, less pollution, and more time for physical exercise. Low PWB individuals reported nothing gained, except more time playing video games and watching TV. Those with higher PWB identified more unintended gifts of COVID and coped more actively.

105. Emotion dynamic patterns between intimate relationship partners predict their separation two years later: A machine learning approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Hilpert P, Vowels MR, Mestdagh M

106. Predictors of diarrhea among children under 24 months in Nepal: A multilevel analysis of multiple indicator cluster survey 2019.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Thapa B, Sapkota S, Hu Y.

107. Quality of life, self-reported outcomes and impact of education among people with moderate and severe hemophilia A: An integrated perspective from a Latin American country.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Torres L, Peñuela O, Forero MDR

108. Motives and attitudes of parents toward HPV vaccination: Results from the initial period of HPV vaccine rollout in Serbia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Štrbac M, Vuković V, Pustahija T

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common viral infections in sexually active population worldwide, and is the main cause of cervical cancer, which is the fourth most common cancer among women. Serbia ranks third in incidence and mortality rate of cervical cancer in Europe. We conducted a cross-sectional study considering parents' motivation for the HPV vaccination of their children. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and a logistic regression model. We found that the strongest motive was "Recommendation from paediatrician" (20.2%), followed by the attitude that HPV vaccine protects against cancers in different localization (15.4%), the motive "It is better to vaccinate a child than expose them to potential risk of HPV infection" (13.3%) and "Feeling anxiety due to a possible infection and cancer in the child" (13.1%). For those parents that vaccinated their child for some other strongest motive, reasons like "Vaccine is free of charge", "Recommendation from friends and family" and motive "My child received all obligatory vaccines, so I want to receive this one as well", were significantly more frequently selected. In the group where paediatricians' recommendation was not a motive for accepting the HPV vaccine, the largest percentage of parents (89.6%) selected motive "HPV vaccine protects against cancers in different localization" and the motive "It is better to vaccinate a child than expose them to potential risk of HPV infection" (78.1%). Paediatrician's recommendation is very important for parents' decision to vaccinate, however, other motives also influenced and had significance in making the parents' decision to vaccinate their children against HPV. Encouraging trust in public health authorities in Serbia, highlighting the advantages of the HPV vaccine and further encouraging healthcare workers to give stronger recommendations can increase the HPV vaccine uptake. Finally, we provided the basis to create more targeted messages that will empower parents to vaccinate their children.

109. Period shaming behavior among male students in Luang Prabang Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Inthaphatha S, Isin-Xiong L, Louangpradith V

Period shaming is defined as any negative and/or disrespectful behavior in relation to the menstrual cycle and menstruating girls. It is suggested that period shaming may limit girls' potential and ability to fully participate in school and community activities. This study aims to examine the prevalence and factors associated with period shaming among male students in Luang Prabang Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). This was a cross-sectional study which was conducted during November 19-27, 2020. This study included 1,232 male students from secondary school grade 9 to 12 in Luang Prabang Province, Lao PDR. Informed consent was obtained from the participants, parents/guardians, and teachers prior to data collection. The data was collected by a self-administered questionnaire. Logistic regression was employed to examine factors associated with period shaming behavior among male students. The mean age of the participants was 16.4 years old. Of all the male students, 18.8% admitted that they had shamed girls during their menstruation at least once. Of those who committed period shaming, they shamed girls some of the times (63.2%). Male students who had consumed alcohol during the last month before the data collection day (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.32-2.55, P<0.001), had heard of menstruation (AOR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.27-2.44, P<0.001), and those who had attended activities/classes about sexual reproductive health (AOR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.29-2.78, P<0.01), were significantly associated with period shaming behavior. In conclusion, a single focus on providing biological health education may not be enough to address menstrual stigmatization and taboos. The school curriculum should integrate other life skill education with reproductive health, such as respect and gender equality, to encourage behavioral changes among male students, to address menstrual stigma and to support and empower girls' menstrual health at school and in the community.

110. Multi-center validation of Catquest-9SF visual function questionnaire in Ontario, Canada.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Kabanovski A, Shah B, D'Silva C

111. A deep learning approach to private data sharing of medical images using conditional generative adversarial networks (GANs).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Sun H, Plawinski J, Subramaniam S

112. College transition Fall 2020 and 2021: Understanding the relationship of COVID-19 experiences and psychosocial correlates with anxiety and depression.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Lourie A, Kennedy S, Henshaw EJ

113. RT-DOb, a switch gene for the gene pair {Csf1r, Milr1}, can influence the onset of Alzheimer's disease by regulating communication between mast cell and microglia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Khayer N, Motamed N, Marashi SA

114. Validation of the person-centered maternity care scale at governmental health facilities in Cambodia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Naito YT, Fukuzawa R, Ganchimeg T

BACKGROUND: Women's childbirth experience of interpersonal care is a significant aspect of quality of care. Due to the lack of a reliable Cambodian version of a measurement tool to assess person-centered maternity care, the present study aimed to adapt the "Person-Centered Maternity Care (PCMC) scale" to the Cambodian context and further determine its psychometric properties. METHODS: The PCMC scale was translated into Khmer using the team translation approach. The Khmer version of PCMC (Kh-PCMC) scale was pretested among 20 Cambodian postpartum women using cognitive interviewing. Subsequently, the Kh-PCMC scale was administered in a survey with 300 Cambodian postpartum women at two governmental health facilities. According to the COnsensus-based Standards for the Selection of health status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) standard, we performed psychometric analysis, including content validity, construct validity, criterion validity, cross-cultural validity, and internal consistency. RESULTS: The preliminary processes of Kh-PCMC scale development including cognitive interviewing and expert review ensured appropriate levels of content validity and acceptable levels of cross-cultural validity of the Kh-PCMC scale with four-point frequency responses. The Scale-level Content Validity Index, Average (S-CVI/Avg) of 30-item Kh-PCMC scale was 0.96. Twenty items, however, performed optimally in the psychometric analysis from the data in Cambodia. The 20-item Kh-PCMC scale produced Cronbach's alpha of 0.86 for the full scale and 0.76-0.91 for the subscales, indicating adequately high internal consistency. Hypothesis testing found positive correlations between the 20-item Kh-PCMC scale and reference measures, which implies acceptable criterion validity. CONCLUSIONS: The present study produced the Kh-PCMC scale that enables women's childbirth experiences to be quantitatively measured. The Kh-PCMC scale can identify intrapartum needs from women's perspectives for quality improvement in Cambodia. However, dynamic changes in and diverse differences of cultural context over time across provinces in Cambodia require the Kh-PCMC scale to be regularly reexamined and, when needed, to be further adjusted.

115. Ionized alkaline water reduces injury in BALB/c mice infected with Leishmania amazonensis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Retamiro KM, Nunes KC, Zani AP

116. Emergence and retention of a collective memory in cockroaches.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Calvo Martín M, Rodriguez Palacio E, Deneubourg JL

117. Loneliness and its associated factors among university students during late stage of COVID-19 pandemic: An online cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Simegn W, Sisay G, Seid AM

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a number of psychosocial and emotional catastrophes, including loneliness. The associated lockdowns, reduced social support, and insufficiently perceived interactions are expected to heighten the level of loneliness during the pandemic. However, there is a dearth of evidence regarding the level of loneliness and what correlates with loneliness among university students in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVES: The general objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of loneliness among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was undertaken. An online data collection tool was distributed to voluntary undergraduate university students. The sampling technique used was snowball sampling. Students were requested to pass the online data collection tool to at least one of their friends to ease data collection. SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to report the results. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with loneliness. A P-value less than 0.2 was used to screen variables for the multivariable analysis, and a P-value less than 0.05 was used to declare significance in the final multivariable logistic regression. RESULT: A total of 426 study participants responded. Out of the total, 62.9% were males, and 37.1% attended fields related to health. Over three-fourths (76.5%) of the study participants encountered loneliness. Females (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01, 3.04), non-health-related departments (AOR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.17, 3.35), ever encountering sexual harassment (AOR: 3.32; 95% CI: 1.46, 7.53), sleeping problems (AOR: 2.13; 95% CI: 1.06, 4.30), perceived stress (AOR: 6.40; 95% CI: 1.85, 22.19) and poor social support (AOR: 3.13; 95% CI: 1.10, 8.87) were significantly associated with loneliness. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: A significant proportion of students were victims of loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Being female, working in non-health-related fields, having sleeping problems, encountering sexual harassment, perceived stress, and poor social support were significantly associated with loneliness. Interventions to reduce loneliness should focus on related psychosocial support to reduce stress, sleeping disturbances, and poor social support. A special focus should also be given to female students.

118. Fish assemblage structure, diversity and controls on reefs of South Kona, Hawai'i Island.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Fukunaga A, Asner GP, Grady BW

The structure of coral-reef fish assemblages is affected by natural and anthropogenic factors such as the architectural complexity, benthic composition and physical characteristics of the habitat, fishing pressure and land-based input. The coral-reef ecosystem of South Kona, Hawai'i hosts diverse reef habitats with a relatively high live coral cover, but a limited number of studies have focused on the ecosystem or the fish assemblages. Here, we surveyed fish assemblages at 119 sites in South Kona in 2020 and 2021 and investigated the associations between the fish assemblages and environmental variables obtained from published Geographic Information System (GIS) layers, including depth, latitude, reef rugosity, housing density and benthic cover. The fish assemblages in South Kona were dominated by a relatively small number of widely occurring species. Multivariate analyses indicated that fish assemblage structure strongly correlated with depth, reefscape-level rugosity and sand cover individually, while the final parsimonious model included latitude, depth, housing density within 3-km of shore, chlorophyll-a concentration and sand cover. Univariate analysis revealed negative associations between housing density and fish species richness and abundance. Effects of environmental factors specific to fish trophic groups were also found. Reefscape-level rugosity had strong positive influences on the distributions of all herbivores (browsers, grazers and scrapers), while housing density had strong negative influences only on the abundance of browsers. Positive associations were also found between live coral cover and the presence of scrapers, as well as the abundance of corallivorous fish. This study intensively surveyed shallow coral reefs along the coastline of South Kona and was the most complete spatial survey on the reef fish assemblages to date. As it utilized GIS layers to assess large-scale patterns in the fish assemblages, future studies including in-situ environmental data may further reveal local-scale patterns and insights into factors affecting the structure of fish assemblages in Hawai'i.

119. Evaluation of an onco-diet on body composition and inflammatory status of dogs with mammary tumor-Pilot study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Bonder BSA, Teixeira FA, Porsani MYH

120. PET: Parameter-efficient Knowledge Distillation on Transformer.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Jeon H, Park S, Kim JG

121. Initial presentation of early rheumatoid arthritis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Weman L, Salo H, Kuusalo L

122. Development and initial pilot validation of a treatment fidelity instrument for family-based interoceptive exposure for adolescents with low-weight eating disorders.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Peyser D, Costello K, Sysko R

123. A framework model for current land condition in Iceland.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Arnalds Ó, Marteinsdóttir B, Brink SH

124. Enhancing the land use efficiency of low-land rice (Oryza sativa L.)-Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) additive series relay intercropping in North-Western Ethiopia: A farmer's indigenous knowledge.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Assefa E, Bitew Y.

125. The impact of electronic health record discontinuity on prediction modeling.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Kar S, Bessette LG, Wyss R

126. Dry EEG measurement of P3 to evaluate cognitive load during sitting, standing, and walking.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Swerdloff MM, Hargrove LJ.

127. Simultaneous analytical method for 296 pesticide multiresidues in root and rhizome based herbal medicines with GC-MS/MS.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Yang SH, Shin Y, Choi H.

128. Exploring family functioning and - hardiness in families' experiencing adult intensive care - A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Ahlberg M, Persson C, Berterö C

129. Correction: The rural-urban divide in Tanzania: Residential context and socioeconomic inequalities in maternal health care utilization.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Langa N, Bhatta T.

130. Physician experiences with and perceptions of risk evaluation and mitigation strategy programs with elements to assure safe use.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Sarpatwari A, Brown BL, McGraw SA

131. Socioeconomic, demographic, and cultural determinants of delivery by caesarian section in Ethiopia: Evidence from Ethiopia Mini Demographic and Health Survey 2019.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Faruk MO, Arafat ME, Shanta SH.

Delivery by cesarean section is a surgical procedure of delivery to a newborn baby, and the process is applied when vaginal delivery is unsafe. This study aims to identify the socioeconomic, demographic, and cultural factors that significantly impact the delivery by caesarean section. The 2019 Ethiopia Mini Demographic and Health Survey (2019 EMDHS) data were used to conduct this research, and this study considered 2872 ever-married women all over the country who delivered in the clinical setting. Firstly, a frequency distribution table has been constructed to understand the characteristics of the selected explanatory and study variables. Then Chi-square test identifies the association between various socioeconomic and demographic factors and delivery by the caesarian section. Finally, the Binary Logistic Regression was used to determine the factors that substantially impact the caesarian section among women in Ethiopia. The Chi-square test of association showed that mother's age, type of residence, highest education level, religion, socioeconomic status, total children ever born, use of contraception, age of mothers at first birth, and preceding birth interval were significantly associated with the caesarian section. The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the mother's current age (Age Group: 31-40; Odds Ratio: 2.487, p<0.05) and religion (Muslim; Odds Ratio: 0.599, p<0.05) substantially influenced the study feature. Moreover, the highest educational level (Secondary and higher; Odds Ratio: 1.581, p<0.05), and the preceding birth interval (>40 months; Odds Ratio: 0.682, p<0.05) were also found to have considerable impacts on the caesarian section. Furthermore, the total number of children ever born (>5; Odds Ratio: 0.498, p<0.05) significantly impacts the delivery by caesarean section in Ethiopia. This study's results would be useful to policymakers to take necessary steps to reduce unnecessary delivery by caesarian section and ensure a safer newborn delivery process.

132. Verbal autopsy analysis of childhood deaths in rural Gambia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Wutor BM, Osei I, Babila Galega L

BACKGROUND: In low-resource settings, it is challenging to ascertain the burden and causes of under-5 mortality as many deaths occur outside health facilities. We aimed to determine the causes of childhood deaths in rural Gambia using verbal autopsies (VA). METHODOLOGY: We used WHO VA questionnaires to conduct VAs for deaths under-5 years of age in the Basse and Fuladu West Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems (HDSS) in rural Gambia between September 01, 2019, and December 31, 2021. Using a standardized cause of death list, two physicians assigned causes of death and discordant diagnoses were resolved by consensus. RESULTS: VAs were conducted for 89% (647/727) of deaths. Of these deaths, 49.5% (n = 319) occurred at home, 50.1% (n = 324) in females, and 32.3% (n = 209) in neonates. Acute respiratory infection including pneumonia (ARIP) (33.7%, n = 137) and diarrhoeal diseases (23.3%, n = 95) were the commonest primary causes of death in the post-neonatal period. In the neonatal period, unspecified perinatal causes of death (34.0%, n = 71) and deaths due to birth asphyxia (27.3%, n = 57) were the commonest causes of death. Severe malnutrition (28.6%, n = 185) was the commonest underlying cause of death. In the neonatal period, deaths due to birth asphyxia (p-value<0.001) and severe anaemia (p-value = 0.03) were more likely to occur at hospitals while unspecified perinatal deaths (p-value = 0.01) were more likely to occur at home. In the post-neonatal period, deaths due to ARIP (p-value = 0.04) and diarrhoeal disease (p-value = 0.001) were more likely to occur among children aged 1-11 months and 12-23 months respectively. CONCLUSION: According to VA analysis of deaths identified within two HDSS in rural Gambia, half of deaths amongst children under-5 in rural Gambia occur at home. ARIP and diarrhoea, and the underlying cause of severe malnutrition remain the predominant causes of child mortality. Improved health care and health-seeking behaviour may reduce childhood deaths in rural Gambia.

133. Systemic cisplatin increases the number of patients showing positive off-frequency masking audiometry.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Hiraumi H, Oikawa SI, Shiga K

134. Perspectives and experiences of the first geriatricians trained in Canada.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Wong EK, Day A, Zorzitto M

135. Exploring Fear of Cancer Recurrence (FCR) in cancer survivors from a medical social work perspective: A qualitative study of medical social workers in South Korea.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Bae KR, Ahn Y, Park JW

136. Face/Off: Changing the face of movies with deepfakes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Murphy G, Ching D, Twomey J

137. USA vs Russia in the scientific arena.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Abramo G, D'Angelo CA, Di Costa F.

138. Multimorbidity and food insecurity in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Kantilafti M, Giannakou K, Chrysostomou S.

139. Three-dimensional nonlinear model of rock creep under freeze-thaw cycles.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Wang Y, Wang D, Li G

140. A different method of fault feature extraction under noise disturbance and degradation trend estimation with system resilience for rolling bearings.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Zhang B, Guo J, Zhou F

141. Examining workweek variations in computer usage patterns: An application of ergonomic monitoring software.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Roh T, Esomonu C, Hendricks J

142. Internal incentives for carbon emission reduction in a capital-constrained supply chain: A financial perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 6

Huang X, He J, Li Z.

143. Peripheral ischemic reserve in sepsis and septic shock as a new bedside prognostic enrichment tool: A Brazilian cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

de Miranda AC, De Stefani FDC, Dal Vesco BC

Microvascular dysfunctions are associated with poor prognosis in sepsis. However, the potential role of clinical assessment of peripheral ischemic microvascular reserve (PIMR), a parameter that characterizes the variation of peripheral perfusion index (PPI) after brief ischemia of the upper arm, as a tool to detect sepsis-induced microvascular dysfunction and for prognostic enrichment has not been established. To address this gap, this study investigated the association of high PIMR with mortality over time in patients with sepsis and its subgroups (with and without shock) and peripheral perfusion (capillary-refill time). This observational cohort study enrolled consecutive septic patients in four Intensive-care units. After fluid resuscitation, PIMR was evaluated using the oximetry-derived PPI and post-occlusive reactive hyperemia for two consecutive days in septic patients. Two hundred and twenty-six patients were included-117 (52%) in the low PIMR group and 109 (48%) in the high PIMR group. The study revealed differences in mortality between groups on the first day, which was higher in the high PIMR group (RR 1.25; 95% CI 1.00-1.55; p = 0.04) and maintained its prognostic significance after multivariate adjustment. Subsequently, this analysis was made for sepsis subgroups and showed significant differences in mortality only for the septic-shock subgroup, with was higher in the high PIMR group (RR 2.14; 95% CI 1.49-3.08; p = 0.01). The temporal ΔPPI peak values (%) analyses did not demonstrate maintenance of the predictive value over the first 48 h in either group (p > 0.05). A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.41) between ΔPPI peak (%) and capillary-refill time (s) was found within the first 24 hours of diagnosis (p < 0.001). In conclusion, detecting a high PIMR within 24 h appears to be a prognostic marker for mortality in sepsis. Furthermore, its potential as a prognostic enrichment tool seems to occur mainly in septic shock.

144. Visual feedback manipulation in virtual reality to influence pain-free range of motion. Are people with non-specific neck pain who are fearful of movement more susceptible?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Kragting M, Voogt L, Coppieters MW

BACKGROUND: Movement-evoked pain may have a protective or learned component, influenced by visual cues which suggest that the person is moving towards a position that may be perceived as threatening. We investigated whether visual feedback manipulation in virtual reality (VR) had a different effect on cervical pain-free range of motion (ROM) in people with fear of movement. METHOD: In this cross-sectional study, seventy-five people with non-specific neck pain (i.e., neck pain without a specific underlying pathology) rotated their head until the onset of pain, while wearing a VR-headset. Visual feedback about the amount of movement was equal, 30% smaller or 30% larger than their actual rotation. ROM was measured using the VR-headset sensors. The effect of VR manipulation in fearful (N = 19 using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) and N = 18 using the Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire-physical activity (FABQpa)) and non-fearful (N = 46; non-fearful on both scales) people was compared using mixed-design ANOVAs. RESULTS: Fear of movement, influenced the effect of visual feedback manipulation on cervical pain-free ROM (TSK: p = 0.036, ղp2 = 0.060; FABQpa: p = 0.020, ղp2 = 0.077); a greater amplitude of pain-free movement was found when visual feedback reduced the perceived rotation angle compared to the control condition (TSK: p = 0.090, ղp2 = 0.104; FABQpa: p = 0.030, ղp2 = 0.073). Independent of the presence of fear, visual feedback manipulation reduced the cervical pain-free ROM in the overstated condition (TSK: p< 0.001, ղp2 = 0.195; FABQpa: p<0.001, ղp2 = 0.329). DISCUSSION: Cervical pain-free ROM can be influenced by visual perception of the amount of rotation and people with fear of movement seem to be more susceptible to this effect. Further research in people with moderate/severe fear is needed to determine whether manipulating visual feedback may have clinical applicability to make patients aware that ROM may be influenced more by fear than tissue pathology.

145. A nationwide survey of public COPD knowledge and awareness in Saudi Arabia: A population-based survey of 15,000 adults.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Alqahtani JS, Aldhahir AM, Siraj RA

BACKGROUND: There is a concerning lack of representative data on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) awareness in Saudi Arabia, and a significant proportion of the population is vulnerable to developing a smoking habit, which is a major risk factor for the disease. METHODS: Population-Based Survey of 15,000 people was conducted to assess the public knowledge and awareness of COPD across Saudi Arabia from October 2022 to March 2023. RESULTS: A total of 15002 responders completed the survey, with a completion rate of 82%. The majority 10314 (69%) were 18-30 year and 6112 (41%) had high school education. The most common comorbidities among the responders were depression (7.67%); hypertension (6%); diabetes (5.77%) and Chronic Lung Disease (4.12%). The most common symptoms were dyspnea (17.80%); chest tightness (14.09%) and sputum (11.19%). Among those who complains of any symptoms, only 16.44% had consulted their doctor. Around 14.16% were diagnosed with a respiratory disease and only 15.56% had performed pulmonary function test (PFT). The prevalence of smoking history was 15.16%, in which current smokers were 9.09%. About 48% of smokers used cigarette, 25% used waterpipe and around 27% were E-cigarette users. About 77% of the total sample have never heard about COPD. Majority of current smokers (73.5%; 1002), ex-smokers (68%; 619), and non-smokers (77.9%; 9911) are unaware of COPD, p value <0.001. Seventy five percent (1028) of the current smokers and 70% (633) of the ex-smokers have never performed PFT, p value <0.001. Male, younger age (18-30 years), higher education, family history of respiratory diseases, previous diagnosis of respiratory disease, previous PFT, and being an ex-smokers increases the odds of COPD awareness, p-value <0.05. CONCLUSION: There is a significantly low awareness about COPD in Saudi Arabia, especially among smokers. A nationwide approach must include targeted public awareness campaigns, continued healthcare professional education, community-based activities encouraging diagnosis and early detection, advice on smoking cessation and lifestyle changes, as well as coordinated national COPD screening programs.

146. Multi-population Black Hole Algorithm for the problem of data clustering.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Salih SQ, Alsewari AA, Wahab HA

147. Nucleic acid sensor STING drives remodeling and its inhibition enhances steroid responsiveness in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Mdkhana B, Saheb Sharif-Askari N, Ramakrishnan RK

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is progressive and irreversible chronic lung inflammatory disease. Cigarette smoke, the main cause of COPD, is often associated with double-stranded DNA release which potentially activates DNA-sensing pathways, such as STING. This study, therefore, analyzed the role of STING pathway in inducing pulmonary inflammation, steroid resistance, and remodeling in COPD. METHODS: Primary cultured lung fibroblasts were isolated from healthy non-smoker, healthy smoker, and smoker COPD individuals. The expression of STING pathway, remodeling, and steroid resistance signatures were investigated in these fibroblasts upon LPS stimulation and treatment with dexamethasone and/or STING inhibitor, at both mRNA and protein levels using qRT-PCR, western blot, and ELISA. RESULTS: At baseline, STING was elevated in healthy smoker fibroblasts and to a higher extent in smoker COPD fibroblasts when compared to healthy non-smoker fibroblasts. Upon using dexamethasone as monotherapy, STING activity was significantly inhibited in healthy non-smoker fibroblasts but showed resistance in COPD fibroblasts. Treating both healthy and COPD fibroblasts with STING inhibitor in combination with dexamethasone additively inhibited STING pathway in both groups. Moreover, STING stimulation triggered a significant increase in remodeling markers and a reduction in HDAC2 expression. Interestingly, treating COPD fibroblasts with the combination of STING inhibitor and dexamethasone alleviated remodeling and reversed steroid hyporesponsiveness through an upregulation of HDAC2. CONCLUSION: These findings support that STING pathway plays an important role in COPD pathogenesis, via inducing pulmonary inflammation, steroid resistance, and remodeling. This raises the possibility of using STING inhibitor as a potential therapeutic adjuvant in combination with common steroid treatment.

148. The effect of preoperative behaviour change interventions on pre- and post-surgery health behaviours, health outcomes, and health inequalities in adults: A systematic review and meta-analyses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Fong M, Kaner E, Rowland M

BACKGROUND: Prehabilitation interventions are being delivered across surgical specialities to improve health risk behaviours leading to better surgical outcomes and potentially reduce length of hospital stay. Most previous research has focused on specific surgery specialities and has not considered the impact of interventions on health inequalities, nor whether prehabilitation improves health behaviour risk profiles beyond surgery. The aim of this review was to examine behavioural Prehabilitation interventions across surgeries to inform policy makers and commissioners of the best available evidence. METHODS AND FINDINGS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted to determine the effect of behavioural prehabilitation interventions targeting at least one of: smoking behaviour, alcohol use, physical activity, dietary intake (including weight loss interventions) on pre- and post-surgery health behaviours, health outcomes, and health inequalities. The comparator was usual care or no treatment. MEDLINE, PubMed, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Clinical trials and Embase databases were searched from inception to May 2021, and the MEDLINE search was updated twice, most recently in March 2023. Two reviewers independently identified eligible studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Outcomes were length of stay, six-minute walk test, behaviours (smoking, diet, physical activity, weight change, and alcohol), and quality of life. Sixty-seven trials were included; 49 interventions targeted a single behaviour and 18 targeted multiple behaviours. No trials examined effects by equality measures. Length of stay in the intervention group was 1.5 days shorter than the comparator (n = 9 trials, 95% CI -2.6 to -0.4, p = 0.01, I2 83%), although in sensitivity analysis prehabilitation had the most impact in lung cancer patients (-3.5 days). Pre-surgery, there was a mean difference of 31.8 m in the six-minute walk test favouring the prehabilitation group (n = 19 trials, 95% CI 21.2 to 42.4m, I2 55%, P <0.001) and this was sustained to 4-weeks post-surgery (n = 9 trials, mean difference = 34.4m (95%CI 12.8 to 56.0, I2 72%, P = 0.002)). Smoking cessation was greater in the prehabilitation group before surgery (RR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7 to 4.8, I2 84%), and this was sustained at 12 months post-surgery (RR 1.74 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.55, I2 43%, Tau2 0.09, p = 0.004)There was no difference in pre-surgery quality of life (n = 12 trials) or BMI (n = 4 trials). CONCLUSIONS: Behavioural prehabilitation interventions reduced length of stay by 1.5 days, although in sensitivity analysis the difference was only found for Prehabilitation interventions for lung cancer. Prehabilitation can improve functional capacity and smoking outcomes just before surgery. That improvements in smoking outcomes were sustained at 12-months post-surgery suggests that the surgical encounter holds promise as a teachable moment for longer-term behavioural change. Given the paucity of data on the effects on other behavioural risk factors, more research grounded in behavioural science and with longer-term follow-up is needed to further investigate this potential.

149. Breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from 2008-2019: A cross-sectional study using trend analysis and geographical information system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Ng B, Puspitaningtyas H, Wiranata JA

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, including in Indonesia. Little is known about the spatial and temporal patterns of breast cancer incidence in Indonesia. This study aimed to analyze temporal and spatial variations of breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia. METHODS: The study used breast cancer case data from the Yogyakarta Population-Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) from 2008 to 2019. The catchment areas of the PBCR included the 48 subdistricts of 3 districts (Sleman, Yogyakarta City, and Bantul). Age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) were calculated for each subdistrict. Joinpoint regression was used to detect any significant changes in trends over time. Global Moran's and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) analyses were performed to identify any spatial clusters or outliers. RESULTS: The subdistricts had a median ASR of 41.9, with a range of 15.3-70.4. The majority of cases were diagnosed at a late stage, with Yogyakarta City having the highest proportion of diagnoses at stage 4. The study observed a significant increasing trend in breast cancer incidence over the study period the fastest of which is in Yogyakarta City with an average annual percentage change of 18.77%, with Sleman having an 18.21% and Bantul having 8.94% average changes each year (p <0.05). We also found a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of breast cancer incidence rates in the province (I = 0.581, p <0.001). LISA analysis identified 11 subdistricts which were high-high clusters in the central area of Yogyakarta City and six low-low clusters in the southeast region of the catchment area in the Bantul and Sleman Districts. No spatial outliers were identified. CONCLUSIONS: We found significant spatial clustering of BC ASR in the Yogyakarta Province, and there was a trend of increasing ASR across the region. These findings can inform resource allocation for public health efforts to high-risk areas and develop targeted prevention and early detection strategies. Further res is needed to understand the factors driving the observed temporal and spatial patterns of breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia.

150. A new point-of-care test for the rapid antimicrobial susceptibility assessment of uropathogens.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Arienzo A, Murgia L, Cellitti V

151. Construction and validation of a novel cuproptosis-mitochondrion prognostic model related with tumor immunity in osteosarcoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Feng J, Wang J, Xu Y

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to develop a new prognostic model for osteosarcoma based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The data of osteosarcoma were obtained from TARGET database. By using Cox regression and LASSO regression analysis, a novel risk score was constructed based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes. Kaplan-Meier, ROC curve and independent prognostic analyses were performed to validate the risk score in GSE21257 dataset. Then, a predictive nomogram was constructed and further validated by calibration plot, C-index and ROC curve. Based on the risk score, all patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk group. GO and KEGG enrichment, immune correlation and drug sensitivity analyses were performed between groups. Real-time quantitative PCR verified the expression of cuproptosis-mitochondrion prognostic model genes in osteosarcoma. And we explored the function of FDX1 in osteosarcoma by western blotting, CCK8, colony formation assay, wound healing assay and transwell assays. RESULTS: A total of six cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes (FDX1, COX11, MFN2, TOMM20, NDUFB9 and ATP6V1E1) were identified. A novel risk score and associated prognostic nomogram were constructed with high clinical application value. Strong differences in function enrichment and tumor immune microenvironment were shown between groups. Besides, the correlation of cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes and drug sensitivity were revealed to search for potential therapeutic target. The expression of FDX1, COX11, MFN2, TOMM20 and NDUFB9 at mRNA level was elevated in osteosarcoma cells compared with normal osteoblast hFOB1.19. The mRNA expression level of ATP6V1E1 was decreased in osteosarcoma. Compared with hFOB1.19, western blotting revealed that the expression of FDX1 was significantly elevated in osteosarcoma cells. Functional experiments indicated that FDX1 mainly promoted the migration of osteosarcoma rather than proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: We developed a novel prognostic model of osteosarcoma based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes, which provided great guidance in survival prediction and individualized treatment decision making for patients with osteosarcoma.

152. Psychological barriers moderate the attitude-behavior gap for climate change.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Vieira J, Castro SL, Souza AS.

153. What can drawings tell us about children's perceptions of nature?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Howlett K, Turner EC.

The growing disconnect between children and nature has led to concerns around the loss of ecological knowledge and reduced nature connection. Understanding children's perceptions of nature is vital for engaging them with local wildlife and mitigating this growing disconnect. This study investigated children's perceptions of nature by analysing 401 drawings made by children (aged 7-11) of their local green spaces, collected from 12 different English schools, including state-funded and privately funded. We assessed which animal and plant groups were drawn the most and least often, quantified each drawing's species richness and community composition, and identified all terms used in the drawings to the highest taxonomic resolution possible. The most commonly drawn groups were mammals (80.5% of drawings) and birds (68.6% of drawings), while herpetofauna were the least commonly drawn (15.7% of drawings). Despite not explicitly being asked about plants, 91.3% of drawings contained a plant. Taxonomic resolution was highest for mammals and birds, with 90% of domestic mammals and 69.6% of garden birds identifiable to species, compared to 18.5% of insects and 14.3% of herpetofauna. No invertebrates other than insects were identifiable to species. Within plants, trees and crops were the most identifiable to species, at 52.6% and 25% of terms respectively. Drawings from state-school children had higher plant richness than those from private-school children. Animal community composition differed between school funding types, with more types of garden birds drawn by private-school than state-school children, and more types of invertebrates drawn by state-school than private-school children. Our findings indicate that children's perceptions of local wildlife are focused on mammals and birds. While plants feature prominently, plant knowledge is less specific than animal knowledge. We suggest that this skew in children's ecological awareness be addressed through better integration of ecology within national curricula and more funding for green space within schools.

154. Contributions of neighborhood social environment and air pollution exposure to Black-White disparities in epigenetic aging.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Yannatos I, Stites S, Brown RT

Racial disparities in many aging-related health outcomes are persistent and pervasive among older Americans, reflecting accelerated biological aging for Black Americans compared to White, known as weathering. Environmental determinants that contribute to weathering are poorly understood. Having a higher biological age, measured by DNA methylation (DNAm), than chronological age is robustly associated with worse age-related outcomes and higher social adversity. We hypothesize that individual socioeconomic status (SES), neighborhood social environment, and air pollution exposures contribute to racial disparities in DNAm aging according to GrimAge and Dunedin Pace of Aging methylation (DPoAm). We perform retrospective cross-sectional analyses among 2,960 non-Hispanic participants (82% White, 18% Black) in the Health and Retirement Study whose 2016 DNAm age is linked to survey responses and geographic data. DNAm aging is defined as the residual after regressing DNAm age on chronological age. We observe Black individuals have significantly accelerated DNAm aging on average compared to White individuals according to GrimAge (239%) and DPoAm (238%). We implement multivariable linear regression models and threefold decomposition to identify exposures that contribute to this disparity. Exposure measures include individual-level SES, census-tract-level socioeconomic deprivation and air pollution (fine particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone), and perceived neighborhood social and physical disorder. Race and gender are included as covariates. Regression and decomposition results show that individual-level SES is strongly associated with and accounts for a large portion of the disparity in both GrimAge and DPoAm aging. Higher neighborhood deprivation for Black participants significantly contributes to the disparity in GrimAge aging. Black participants are more vulnerable to fine particulate matter exposure for DPoAm, perhaps due to individual- and neighborhood-level SES, which may contribute to the disparity in DPoAm aging. DNAm aging may play a role in the environment "getting under the skin", contributing to age-related health disparities between older Black and White Americans.

155. Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Galapagos birds: Inference of risk factors associated with diet.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Mosquera JD, Valle CA, Nieto-Claudin A

156. Horizontal transfer of probable chicken-pathogenicity chromosomal islands between Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus agnetis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Rhoads DD, Pummil J, Ekesi NS

Staphylococcus agnetis is an emerging pathogen in chickens but has been most commonly isolated from sub-clinical mastitis in bovines. Previous whole-genome analyses for known virulence genes failed to identify determinants for the switch from mild ductal infections in cattle to severe infections in poultry. We now report identification of a family of 15 kbp, 17-19 gene mobile genetic elements (MGEs) specific to chicken osteomyelitis and dermatitis isolates of S. agnetis. These MGEs can be present in multiple copies per genome. The MGE has been vectored on a Staphylococcus phage that separately lysogenized two S. agnetis osteomyelitis strains. The S. agnetis genome from a broiler breeder case of ulcerative dermatitis contains 2 orthologs of this MGE, not associated with a prophage. BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses show that there are closely related intact MGEs found in genomes of S. aureus. The genome from a 1980s isolate from chickens in Ireland contains 3 copies of this MGE. More recent chicken isolates descended from that genome (Poland 2009, Oklahoma 2010, and Arkansas 2018) contain 2 to 4 related copies. Many of the genes of this MGE can be identified in disparate regions of the genomes of other chicken isolates of S. aureus. BLAST searches of the NCBI databases detect no similar MGEs outside of S. aureus and S. agnetis. These MGEs encode no proteins related to those produced by Staphylococcus aureus Pathogenicity Islands, which have been associated with the transition of S. aureus from human to chicken hosts. Other than mobilization functions, most of the genes in these new MGEs annotate as hypothetical proteins. The MGEs we describe appear to represent a new family of Chromosomal Islands (CIs) shared amongst S. agnetis and S. aureus. Further work is needed to understand the role of these CIs/MGEs in pathogenesis. Analysis of horizontal transfer of genetic elements between isolates and species of Staphylococci provides clues to evolution of host-pathogen interactions as well as revealing critical determinants for animal welfare and human diseases.

157. Toxoplasma infection and Rhesus blood group system: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Nayeri T, Moosazadeh M, Asl AD

158. Evolutionary diversity of the endemic genera of the vascular flora of Chile and its implications for conservation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Ramírez-Verdugo P, Tapia A, Forest F

As a direct consequence of global change, both natural and human-induced, a high percentage of biodiversity is now under threat worldwide. This has urged conservation planners to formulate and/or improve existing strategies to preserve species and their ecosystems. In this context, the present study focuses on two strategies using phylogeny-based measures of biodiversity to account for the processes that led to the biodiversity patterns observed today. It will contribute additional information that can aid decision-making regarding the assignment of threat status for some species, thus strengthening measures currently in use and facilitate the allocation of often scarce conservation resources. The Evolutionarily Distinct (ED) index prioritises species that are on long branches of the tree of life with few descendants, and the Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) index integrates evolutionary history with IUCN Red List threat status of species. It has been used mostly in animal groups, but since the threats faced by many plants have not been evaluated, it has been more difficult to compile for plants worldwide. Here, we apply the EDGE metric to species of the endemic genera of Chile. However, more than 50% of the endemic flora of the country are still lacking official threat status. We thus used an alternative measure (Relative Evolutionary Distinctness-RED), based on a range-weighted phylogenetic tree, which uses geographic ranges to adjust branch lengths, and calculate ED. The RED index was shown to be a suitable measure, yielding similar results compared to EDGE, at least for this group of species. Given the urgency to halt biodiversity loss and the time it would take to evaluate all species, we propose that this index is used to set conservation priorities until we can calculate EDGE for these unique endemic species. This would allow guiding decision-making until we can gather more data to assess and assign conservation status to new species.

159. Construction and validation of 3-genes hypoxia-related prognostic signature to predict the prognosis and therapeutic response of hepatocellular carcinoma patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Liu Y, Shen B, Huang T

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that the hypoxia microenvironment significantly impacted tumor progression. However, the clinical prognostic value of hypoxia-related risk signatures and their effects on the tumor microenvironment (TME) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains hazy. This study aimed to conduct novel hypoxia-related prognostic signatures and improve HCC prognosis and treatment. METHODS: Differentially expressed hypoxia-related genes (HGs) were identified with the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Univariate Cox regression was utilized to generate the tumor hypoxia-related prognostic signature, which consists of 3 HGs, based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. Then the risk score for each patient was performed. The prognostic signature's independent prognostic usefulness was confirmed, and systematic analyses were done on the relationships between the prognostic signature and immune cell infiltration, somatic cell mutation, medication sensitivity, and putative immunological checkpoints. RESULTS: A prognostic risk model of four HGs (FDPS, SRM, and NDRG1) was constructed and validated in the training, testing, and validation datasets. To determine the model's performance in patients with HCC, Kaplan-Meier curves and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis was implemented. According to immune infiltration analysis, the high-risk group had a significant infiltration of CD4+ T cells, M0 macrophages, and dendritic cells (DCs) than those of the low-risk subtype. In addition, the presence of TP53 mutations in the high-risk group was higher, in which LY317615, PF-562271, Pyrimethamine, and Sunitinib were more sensitive. The CD86, LAIR1, and LGALS9 expression were upregulated in the high-risk subtype. CONCLUSIONS: The hypoxia-related risk signature is a reliable predictive model for better clinical management of HCC patients and offers clinicians a holistic viewpoint when determining the diagnosis and course of HCC treatment.

160. Did people really drink bleach to prevent COVID-19? A guide for protecting survey data against problematic respondents.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Litman L, Rosen Z, Hartman R

161. Incidence, prevalence, and treatment of anemia of non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease: A retrospective database study in France.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Dardim K, Fernandes J, Panes A

BACKGROUND: Minimal data are available regarding the prevalence and incidence of anemia among patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD) in France. METHODS: This was a retrospective non-interventional study of patients with a record of NDD-CKD in the Echantillon Généraliste des Bénéficiaires (EGB) database between January 01, 2012, and December 31, 2017. The primary objective was to estimate the annual incidence and prevalence of anemia of NDD-CKD. Secondary objectives included description of the demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with NDD-CKD-related anemia. An exploratory objective was to use machine learning to identify patients from the general population that might have NDD-CKD but without a recorded ICD-10 diagnosis of CKD. RESULTS: During 2012-2017, 9865 adult patients in the EGB database had confirmed NDD-CKD; of these, 49.1% (4848/9865) had anemia. From 2015 to 2017, estimates of incidence (108.7-114.7 per 1000 population) and prevalence (435.7-449.5 per 1000 population) of NDD-CKD-related anemia were stable. Less than half of patients with anemia of NDD-CKD were treated with oral iron, and approximately 15% were treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents. Based on adult French population projections in 2020 and an estimated prevalence rate in 2017 of 42.2 per 1000 population for confirmed plus possible NDD-CKD (as a proportion of the general French population), the estimated number of patients with possible NDD-CKD in France was 2,256,274, approximately five-fold greater than the number identified by diagnostic codes and hospitalizations. CONCLUSIONS: Anemia of NDD-CKD was shown to be a constant long-term burden in France, and its apparent prevalence may still be significantly underestimated. Given the potential treatment gap, additional initiatives to better identify and treat NDD-CKD anemia may improve patient management and treatment outcomes.

162. Conjoint application of nano-urea with conventional fertilizers: An energy efficient and environmentally robust approach for sustainable crop production.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Upadhyay PK, Dey A, Singh VK

163. Abundance of Dendroctonus frontalis and D. mexicanus (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) along altitudinal transects in Mexico: Implications of climatic change for forest conservation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Sáenz-Romero C, Cambrón-Sandoval VH, Hammond W

164. Increased risk of pneumonia amongst residents living near goat farms in different livestock-dense regions in the Netherlands.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Lotterman A, Baliatsas C, de Rooij MMT

BACKGROUND: Previous studies, performed between 2009-2019, in the Netherlands observed an until now still unexplained increased risk for pneumonia among residents living close to goat farms. Since data were collected in the provinces Noord-Brabant and Limburg (NB-L), an area with relatively high air pollution levels and proximity to large industrial areas in Europe, the question remains whether the results are generalizable to other regions. In this study, a different region, covering the provinces Utrecht, Gelderland, and Overijssel (UGO) with a similar density of goat farms, was included to assess whether the association between goat farm proximity and pneumonia is consistently observed across the Netherlands. METHODS: Data for this study were derived from the Electronic Health Records (EHR) of 21 rural general practices (GPs) in UGO, for 2014-2017. Multi-level analyses were used to compare annual pneumonia prevalence between UGO and data derived from rural reference practices ('control area'). Random-effects meta-analysis (per GP practice) and kernel analyses were performed to study associations of pneumonia with the distance between goat farms and patients' home addresses. RESULTS: GP diagnoses of pneumonia occurred 40% more often in UGO compared to the control area. Meta-analysis showed an association at a distance of less than 500m (~70% more pneumonia compared to >500m) and 1000m (~20% more pneumonia compared to >1000m). The kernel-analysis for three of the four individual years showed an increased risk up to a distance of one or two kilometers (2-36% more pneumonia; 10-50 avoidable cases per 100,000 inhabitants per year). CONCLUSIONS: The positive association between living in the proximity of goat farms and pneumonia in UGO is similar to the previously found association in NB-L. Therefore, we concluded that the observed associations are relevant for regions with goat farms in the entire country.

165. Low recruitment drives the decline of red porgy (Pagrus pagrus) along the southeast USA Atlantic coast: Inferences from fishery-independent trap and video monitoring.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Bacheler NM, Klibansky N, Bubley WJ

166. Ethanol and caffeine age-dependently alter brain and retinal neurochemical levels without affecting morphology of juvenile and adult zebrafish (Danio rerio).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Clayman CL, Hwang C, Connaughton VP.

167. Molehill Mountain feasibility study: Protocol for a non-randomised pilot trial of a novel app-based anxiety intervention for autistic people.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Oakley B, Boatman C, Doswell S

Up to 50% of autistic people experience co-occurring anxiety, which significantly impacts their quality of life. Consequently, developing new interventions (and/ or adapting existing ones) that improve anxiety has been indicated as a priority for clinical research and practice by the autistic community. Despite this, there are very few effective, evidence-based therapies available to autistic people that target anxiety; and those that are available (e.g., autism adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; CBT) can be challenging to access. Thus, the current study will provide an early-stage proof of concept for the feasibility and acceptability of a novel app-based therapeutic approach that has been developed with, and adapted for, autistic people to support them in managing anxiety using UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended adapted CBT approaches. This paper describes the design and methodology of an ethically approved (22/LO/0291) ongoing non-randomised pilot trial that aims to enrol approximately 100 participants aged ≥16-years with an existing autism diagnosis and mild-to-severe self-reported anxiety symptoms (trial registration NCT05302167). Participants will be invited to engage with a self-guided app-based intervention-'Molehill Mountain'. Primary (Generalised Anxiety Disorder Assessment, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and secondary outcomes (medication/ service use and Goal Attainment Scaling) will be assessed at baseline (Week 2 +/- 2), endpoint (Week 15 +/- 2) and three follow-ups (Weeks 24, 32 and 41 +/- 4). Participants will also be invited to complete an app acceptability survey/ interview at the study endpoint. Analyses will address: 1) app acceptability/ useability and feasibility (via survey/ interview and app usage data); and 2) target population, performance of outcome measures and ideal timing/ duration of intervention (via primary/ secondary outcome measures and survey/ interview)-with both objectives further informed by a dedicated stakeholder advisory group. The evidence from this study will inform the future optimisation and implementation of Molehill Mountain in a randomised-controlled trial, to provide a novel tool that can be accessed easily by autistic adults and may improve mental health outcomes.

168. Geo-climatic risk factors for chronic rhinosinusitis in southwest Iran.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Ghatee MA, Kanannejad Z, Nikaein K

169. Influence of different primary surgical techniques on long-term intraocular pressure and medication in glaucoma after congenital cataract surgery.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Strzalkowska A, Strzalkowski P, Stingl JV

170. The measurement of mental fatigue following an overnight on-call duty among doctors using electroencephalogram.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Su AT, Xavier G, Kuan JW.

171. Do we need to accurately perceive our heartbeats? Cardioceptive accuracy and sensibility are independent from indicators of negative affectivity, body awareness, body image dissatisfaction, and alexithymia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Körmendi J, Ferentzi E, Petzke T

172. Financial burden of heart failure in Malaysia: A perspective from the public healthcare system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Ong SC, Low JZ.

173. Ex-ante impact of pest des petits ruminant control on micro and macro socioeconomic indicators in Senegal: A system dynamics modelling approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Aboah J, Apolloni A, Duboz R

Vaccination is considered as the main tool for the Global Control and Eradication Strategy for peste des petits ruminants (PPR), and the efficacity of the PPR-vaccine in conferring long-life immunity has been established. Despite this, previous studies asserted that vaccination can be expensive and consequently, the effectiveness of disease control may not necessarily translate to overall profit for farmers. Also, the consequences of PPR control on socioeconomic indicators like food and nutrition security at a macro-national level have not been explored thoroughly. Therefore, this study seeks to assess ex-ante the impact of PPR control strategies on farm-level profitability and the socioeconomic consequences concerning food and nutrition security at a national level in Senegal. A bi-level system dynamics model, compartmentalised into five modules consisting of integrated production-epidemiological, economics, disease control, marketing, and policy modules, was developed with the STELLA Architect software, validated, and simulated for 30 years at a weekly timestep. The model was parameterised with data from household surveys from pastoral areas in Northern Senegal and relevant existing data. Nine vaccination scenarios were examined considering different vaccination parameters (vaccination coverage, vaccine wastage, and the provision of government subsidies). The findings indicate that compared to a no-vaccination scenario, all the vaccination scenarios for both 26.5% (actual vaccination coverage) and 70% (expected vaccination coverage) resulted in statistically significant differences in the gross margin earnings and the potential per capita consumption for the supply of mutton and goat meat. At the prevailing vaccination coverage (with or without the provision of government subsidies), farm households will earn an average gross margin of $69.43 (annually) more than without vaccination, and the average per capita consumption for mutton and goat meat will increase by 1.13kg/person/year. When the vaccination coverage is increased to the prescribed threshold for PPR eradication (i.e., 70%), with or without the provision of government subsidies, the average gross margin earnings would be $72.23 annually and the per capita consumption will increase by 1.23kg/person/year compared to the baseline (without vaccination). This study's findings offer an empirical justification for a sustainable approach to PPR eradication. The information on the socioeconomic benefits of vaccination can be promoted via sensitization campaigns to stimulate farmers' uptake of the practice. This study can inform investment in PPR control.

174. Exploring health care professionals' experiences and knowledge of woman-centred care in a university hospital.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Floris L, Michoud-Bertinotti B, Martinez de Tejada B

Inspired by the six quality-of-care goals developed by the Institute of Medicine, woman-centred care (WCC) as model of care is used in maternity services as it gives an emphasis on the woman as an individual and not her status as a patient. Bringing stronger attention to women's needs and values, is proven to have clear benefits for perinatal outcomes, but fails to be known or recognised by healthcare professionals' (HCPs) and implemented. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study aimed to explore HCPs definitions of WCC and identify the degree of agreement and knowledge regarding perinatal indicators when a WCC model of care is implemented. The quantitative part was carried using a self-administered questionnaire with perinatal indicators identified from the literature. Semi-structured interviews were realized using a purposive sample of 15 HCPs and an interview grid inspired by Leap's WCC model. The study was conducted in the maternity of a university hospital in French-speaking part of Switzerland. Out of 318 HCPs working with mothers and their newborns, 51% had already heard of WCC without being familiar with Leap's model. The HCPs were aware of the positive perinatal care outcomes when WCC was implemented: women's satisfaction (99.2%), health promotion (97.6%), HCP's job satisfaction (93.2%) and positive feelings about their work (85.6%), which were strongly emphasised in the interviews. The respondents reported institutional difficulties in implementing the model such as administrative overload and lack of time. The positive outcomes of WCC on spontaneous deliveries and improved neonatal adaptation were known by most HCPs (63.4% and 59.9%, respectively). However, fewer than half of the HCPs highlighted the model's positive effects on analgesia and episiotomies or its financial benefits. Knowledge of quality-of-care outcomes (i.e women's satisfaction, positive impact on practice…) was prevalent among most of HCPs. Without adhering to a common definition and without a specific model for consensus, most providers have integrated some aspects of WCC into their practice. However, specific perinatal indicators remain largely unknown, which may hinder the implementation of WCC.

175. Body mass index and all-cause mortality in a 21st century U.S. population: A National Health Interview Survey analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Visaria A, Setoguchi S.

INTRODUCTION: Much of the data on BMI-mortality associations stem from 20th century U.S. cohorts. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between BMI and mortality in a contemporary, nationally representative, 21st century, U.S. adult population. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of U.S. adults from the 1999-2018 National Health Interview Study (NHIS), linked to the National Death Index (NDI) through December 31st, 2019. BMI was calculated using self-reported height & weight and categorized into 9 groups. We estimated risk of all-cause mortality using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, adjusting for covariates, accounting for the survey design, and performing subgroup analyses to reduce analytic bias. RESULTS: The study sample included 554,332 adults (mean age 46 years [SD 15], 50% female, 69% non-Hispanic White). Over a median follow-up of 9 years (IQR 5-14) and maximum follow-up of 20 years, there were 75,807 deaths. The risk of all-cause mortality was similar across a wide range of BMI categories: compared to BMI of 22.5-24.9 kg/m2, the adjusted HR was 0.95 [95% CI 0.92, 0.98] for BMI of 25.0-27.4 and 0.93 [0.90, 0.96] for BMI of 27.5-29.9. These results persisted after restriction to healthy never-smokers and exclusion of subjects who died within the first two years of follow-up. A 21-108% increased mortality risk was seen for BMI ≥30. Older adults showed no significant increase in mortality between BMI of 22.5 and 34.9, while in younger adults this lack of increase was limited to the BMI range of 22.5 to 27.4. CONCLUSION: The risk of all-cause mortality was elevated by 21-108% among participants with BMI ≥30. BMI may not necessarily increase mortality independently of other risk factors in adults, especially older adults, with overweight BMI. Further studies incorporating weight history, body composition, and morbidity outcomes are needed to fully characterize BMI-mortality associations.

176. Lipoxin receptor agonist and inhibition of LTA4 hydrolase prevent tight junction disruption caused by P. aeruginosa filtrate in airway epithelial cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Kalsi KK, Jackson S, Baines DL.

177. Individuals reciprocate negative actions revealing negative upstream reciprocity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Umetani R, Yamamoto H, Goto A

178. The VIPR2-selective antagonist KS-133 changes macrophage polarization and exerts potent anti-tumor effects as a single agent and in combination with an anti-PD-1 antibody.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Sakamoto K, Kittikulsuth W, Miyako E

179. Ultrasound measurements of interactive turn-taking in question-answer sequences: Articulatory preparation is delayed but not tied to the response.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Bögels S, Levinson SC.

180. Does familiarity with an idea bias its evaluation?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Greul A, Schweisfurth TG, Raasch C.

181. Multivariate regression modelling for gender prediction using volatile organic compounds from hand odor profiles via HS-SPME-GC-MS.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Frazier CJG, Gokool VA, Holness HK

182. The experience of intergenerational interactions and their influence on the mental health of older people living in residential care.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 5

Earl EJ, Marais D.

183. Tributyrin alleviates gut microbiota dysbiosis to repair intestinal damage in antibiotic-treated mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Yang N, Lan T, Han Y

Tributyrin (TB) is a butyric acid precursor and has a key role in anti-inflammatory and intestinal barrier repair effects by slowly releasing butyric acid. However, its roles in gut microbiota disorder caused by antibiotics remain unclear. Herein, we established an intestinal microbiota disorder model using ceftriaxone sodium via gavage to investigate the effects of different TB doses for restoring gut microbiota and intestinal injury. First, we divided C57BL/6 male mice into two groups: control (NC, n = 8) and experimental (ABx, n = 24) groups, receiving gavage with 0.2 mL normal saline and 400 mg/mL ceftriaxone sodium solution for 7 d (twice a day and the intermediate interval was 6 h), respectively. Then, mice in the ABx group were randomly split into three groups: model (M, 0.2 mL normal saline), low TB group (TL, 0.3 g/kg BW), and high TB group (TH, 3 g/kg BW) for 11 d. We found that TB supplementation alleviated antibiotics-induced weight loss, diarrhea, and intestinal tissue damage. The 16S rRNA sequence analysis showed that TB intervention increased the α diversity of intestinal flora, increased potential short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria (such as Muribaculaceae and Bifidobacterium), and inhibited the relative abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria (such as Bacteroidetes and Enterococcus) compared to the M group. TB supplementation reversed the reduction in SCFAs production in antibiotic-treated mice. Additionally, TB downregulated the levels of serum LPS and zonulin, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and NLRP3 inflammasome-related factors in intestinal tissue and upregulated tight junction proteins (such as ZO-1 and Occludin) and MUC2. Overall, the adjustment ability of low-dose TB to the above indexes was stronger than high-dose TB. In conclusion, TB can restore the dysbiosis of gut microbiota, increase SCFAs, suppress inflammation, and ameliorate antibiotic-induced intestinal damage, indicating that TB might be a potential gut microbiota modulator.

184. Prevalence and factors associated with long COVID and mental health status among recovered COVID-19 patients in southern Thailand.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Phu DH, Maneerattanasak S, Shohaimi S

Mental health disorders have become a growing public health concern among individuals recovering from COVID-19. Long COVID, a condition where symptoms persist for an extended period, can predict psychological problems among COVID-19 patients. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of long COVID and mental health status among Thai adults who had recovered from COVID-19, identify the association between the mental health status and long COVID symptoms, and investigate the risk factors associated with the correlation between long COVID and mental health outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 939 randomly selected participants in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, southern Thailand. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 was used to investigate mental health symptoms, and a checklist comprised of thirteen common symptoms was used to identify the long COVID among participants. Logistic regression models were used to investigate the risk factors associated with mental health status and long COVID symptoms among participants. Among the 939 participants, 104 (11.1%) had depression, 179 (19.1%) had anxiety, and 42 (4.8%) were stressed. A total of 745 participants (79.3%) reported experiencing at least one symptom of long COVID, with fatigue (72.9%, SE±0.02), cough (66.0%, SE±0.02), and muscle pain (54.1%, SE±0.02) being the most frequently reported symptoms. All long COVID symptoms were significantly associated with mental health status. Shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest tightness were the highest risk factors for mental health status among COVID-19 patients. The final multivariable model indicated that female patients (OR = 1.89), medical history (OR = 1.92), and monthly income lower than 5,000 Thai baht (OR = 2.09) were associated with developing long COVID symptoms and mental health status (all p<0.01). This study provides valuable insights into the potential long-term effects of COVID-19 on mental health and enhances understanding of the mechanisms underlying the condition for predicting the occurrence of mental health issues in Thai COVID-19 patients.

185. Shibboleth: An agent-based model of signalling mimicry.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Goodman JR, Caines A, Foley RA.

Mimicry is an essential strategy for exploiting competitors in competitive co-evolutionary relationships. Protection against mimicry may, furthermore, be a driving force in human linguistic diversity: the potential harm caused by failing to detect mimicked group-identity signals may select for high sensitivity to mimicry of honest group members. Here we describe the results of five agent-based models that simulate multi-generational interactions between two groups of individuals: original members of a group with an honest identity signal, and members of an outsider group who mimic that signal, aiming to pass as members of the in-group. The models correspond to the Biblical story of Shibboleth, where a tribe in conflict with another determines tribe affiliation by asking individuals to pronounce the word, 'Shibboleth.' In the story, failure to reproduce the word phonetically resulted in death. Here, we run five different versions of a 'Shibboleth' model: a first, simple version, which evaluates whether a composite variable of mimicry quality and detection quality is a superior predictor to the model's outcome than is cost of detection. The models thereafter evaluate variations on the simple model, incorporating group-level behaviours such as altruistic punishment. Our results suggest that group members' sensitivity to mimicry of the Shibboleth-signal is a better predictor of whether any signal of group identity goes into fixation in the overall population than is the cost of mimicry detection. Thus, the likelihood of being detected as a mimic may be more important than the costs imposed on mimics who are detected. This suggests that theoretical models in biology should place greater emphasis on the likelihood of detection, which does not explicitly entail costs, rather than on the costs to individuals who are detected. From a language learning perspective, the results suggest that admission to group membership through linguistic signals is powered by the ability to imitate and evade detection as an outsider by existing group members.

186. A location-inventory model for the sustainable supply chain of perishable products based on pricing and replenishment decisions: A case study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Mohammadi Z, Barzinpour F, Teimoury E.

In recent decades, changes in people's lifestyles and occupations have led to new food consumption patterns around the world, with a notable growth in the demand for ready meals and meat products. Accordingly, the food industry has tried to transform the global food culture by promoting its more profitable products to become able to set a higher price for meat. Considering the short lifetime of products in perishable food supply chains, inventory decisions are considered crucial. In addition, the demand for perishable food products is greatly affected by their freshness. In this paper, we develop a multi-objective mixed-integer non-linear programming model for a four-level sustainable supply chain (SC) of a perishable product with price-dependent demand and deterioration rates. The SC consists of suppliers, a production center (PC), distribution centers (DCs), and retailers. We aim to ascertain the optimal pricing policy and cycle length to maximize profit, achieve specific social objectives, and minimize the total cost and adverse environmental impacts. The proposed model determines the deterioration rate of each product according to its expiration date, the optimal location of supply-side facilities, and the flow rate between the facilities based on the selected mode of delivery. The products are delivered to the retailers by a mechanized transportation system either directly from the PC or indirectly through the DCs. Finally, an actual case study is provided to demonstrate the applicability of the model and our theoretical results under real-world conditions. We solve the case study by a preemptive fuzzy goal programming method and perform several sensitivity analyses on the results. By performing simultaneous sensitivity analyses on the demand and expiration dates, the optimal values of the problem's parameters are determined. The optimal values help decision-makers make optimal decisions regarding the selling price of products and replenishment times. The model is applicable to supply chains of any perishable items with expiration dates.

187. Towards a Swiss health study with human biomonitoring: Learnings from the pilot phase about participation and design.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Morand Bourqui R, Nusslé SG, von Goetz N

188. Characterizing clinical findings of Sjögren's Disease patients in community practices using matched electronic dental-health record data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Felix Gomez GG, Hugenberg ST, Zunt S

Established classifications exist to confirm Sjögren's Disease (SD) (previously referred as Sjögren's Syndrome) and recruit patients for research. However, no established classification exists for diagnosis in clinical settings causing delayed diagnosis. SD patients experience a huge dental disease burden impairing their quality of life. This study established criteria to characterize Indiana University School of Dentistry (IUSD) patients' SD based on symptoms and signs in the electronic health record (EHR) data available through the state-wide Indiana health information exchange (IHIE). Association between SD diagnosis, and comorbidities including other autoimmune conditions, and documentation of SD diagnosis in electronic dental record (EDR) were also determined. The IUSD patients' EDR were linked with their EHR data in the IHIE and queried for SD diagnostic ICD9/10 codes. The resulting cohorts' EHR clinical findings were characterized and classified using diagnostic criteria based on clinical experts' recommendations. Descriptive statistics were performed, and Chi-square tests determined the association between the different SD presentations and comorbidities including other autoimmune conditions. Eighty-three percent of IUSD patients had an EHR of which 377 patients had a SD diagnosis. They were characterized as positive (24%), uncertain (20%) and negative (56%) based on EHR clinical findings. Dry eyes and mouth were reported for 51% and positive Anti-Ro/SSA antibodies and anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) for 17% of this study cohort. One comorbidity was present in 98% and other autoimmune condition/s were present in 53% respectively. Significant differences were observed between the three SD clinical characteristics/classifications and certain medical and autoimmune conditions (p<0.05). Sixty-nine percent of patients' EDR did not mention SD, highlighting the huge gap in reporting SD during dental care. This study of SD patients diagnosed in community practices characterized three different SD clinical presentations, which can be used to generate SD study cohorts for longitudinal studies using EHR data. The results emphasize the heterogenous SD clinical presentations and the need for further research to diagnose SD early in community practice settings where most people seek care.

189. Conditional autoencoder asset pricing models for the Korean stock market.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Kim E, Cho T, Koo B

190. Fake news stance detection using selective features and FakeNET.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Aljrees T, Cheng X, Ahmed MM

191. Effects of polyethylene glycol-grafted phospholipid on the anionic magnetite nanoparticles-induced deformation and poration in giant lipid vesicles.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Karal MAS, Sultana S, Billah MM

192. Epidemiology of malaria, schistosomiasis, and geohelminthiasis amongst children 3-15 years of age during the dry season in Northern Cameroon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Nkemngo FN, W G Raissa L, Nebangwa DN

BACKGROUND: The double burden of malaria and helminthiasis in children poses an obvious public health challenge, particularly in terms of anemia morbidity. While both diseases frequently geographically overlap, most studies focus on mono-infection and general prevalence surveys without molecular analysis. The current study investigated the epidemiological determinants of malaria, schistosomiasis, and geohelminthiasis transmission among children in the North Region of Cameroon. METHODOLOGY: School and pre-school children aged 3-15 year-of-age were enrolled from three communities in March 2021 using a community cross-sectional design. Capillary-blood samples were obtained, and each was examined for malaria parasites using rapid-diagnostic-test (RDT), microscopy, and PCR while hemoglobin level was measured using a hemoglobinometer. Stool samples were analyzed for Schistosoma mansoni, S. guineensis, and soil-transmitted-helminthiasis (STH) infections using the Kato Katz method, and urine samples were assessed for the presence of S. haematobium eggs (including hybrids) using the standard urine filtration technique. RESULT: A malaria prevalence of 56% (277/495) was recorded by PCR as opposed to 31.5% (156/495) by microscopy and 37.8% (186/495) by RDT. Similarly, schistosomiasis was observed at prevalence levels of up to 13.3% (66/495) overall [S. haematobium (8.7%); S. mansoni (3.8%); mixed Sh/Sm (0.6%); mixed Sh/Sm/Sg (0.2%). Both infections were higher in males and the 3-9 year-of-age groups. A high frequency of PCR reported P. falciparum mono-infection of 81.9% (227/277) and mixed P. falciparum/P. malariae infection of 17.3% (48/277) was observed. Malaria-helminths co-infections were observed at 13.1% (65/495) with marked variation between P. falciparum/S. haematobium (50.8%, 33/65); P. falciparum/S. mansoni (16.9%, 11/65) and P. falciparum/Ascaris (9.2%, 6/65) (χ2 = 17.5, p = 0.00003). Anemia prevalence was 32.9% (163/495), categorically associated with P. falciparum (45.8%, 104/227), Pf/Sh (11.5%, 26/227), and Pf/Sm (3.9%, 9/227) polyparasitism. CONCLUSION: Polyparasitism with malaria and helminth infections is common in school-aged children despite periodic long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) distribution and regular school-based praziquantel (for schistosomiasis) and albendazole (for STH) campaigns. Co-existence of Plasmodium parasites and helminths infections notably Schistosoma species among children may concurrently lead to an increase in Plasmodium infection with an enhanced risk of anemia, highlighting the necessity of an integrated approach for disease control interventions.

193. Tongue strength and endurance among typically developing children and children with idiopathic speech sound disorders in the United Arab Emirates.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Safi M, Alzyod DM, Opoku MP

194. The relationship between wellness and training and match load in professional male soccer players.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Oliveira RFS, Canário-Lemos R, Peixoto R

The aims of this study were to: (i) analyse the within-microcycle variations in professional soccer players; (ii) analyse the relationships between wellness and training and match load demands; (iii) analyse the relationships between match-day (MD) demands and wellness during the following day (MD+1); and (iv) analyse the relationships between MD and wellness during the day before match-play (MD-1). Thirteen professional soccer players (age: 24.85±3.13 years) were monitored daily over 16-weeks for wellness and training and match-play intensity. The daily wellness measures included fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness, mood and stress using a 1-5 scale. Internal intensity was subjectively measured daily using the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and the multiplication of RPE by session duration (s-RPE). While external intensity was quantified utilising high-speed running, sprinting, and acceleration and deceleration metrics. Data was analysed from each training session before (i.e., MD-5) or after the match (i.e., MD+1). Repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman ANOVA was used to analyse the aims (i) where Spearman correlation was applied to analyse the relationships between the aims (ii) and (iii) between sleep quality and training intensity. The main results for aim (i) showed that MD+1 presented the lowest values for wellness variables (p < 0.05). While MD-1 presented the lowest internal and external load values (for all variables), with MD presenting the highest values (p < 0.05). Regarding aim (ii), the main result showed significant large negative correlations between fatigue and s-RPE (r = -0.593; p = 0.033). Considering aim (iii), significant small to very large negative correlations were found for sleep quality, fatigue and muscle soreness with all internal and external variables (p < 0.05). Lastly, the main results for aim (iv) showed large negative correlations for fatigue and session duration; fatigue and s-RPE; muscle soreness and session duration; muscle soreness and s-RPE; and muscle soreness and decelerations (p < 0.05, for all). The main conclusions were that MD had an influence on wellness and internal and external training intensity, notably MD-1 and MD+1 were most affected. In this regard, a tendency of higher internal and external intensity on MD was associated with lower wellness measures of sleep quality, muscle soreness and fatigue on MD+1.

195. Species relationships within the genus Vitis based on molecular and morphological data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Péros JP, Launay A, Peyrière A

196. Client-centered counseling and facilitation in improving modern contraceptive uptake in urban slum of Karachi Pakistan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Fazal ZZ, Zeeshan NUH, Moin G

BACKGROUND: Population growth in Pakistan necessitates the implementation of comprehensive family planning (FP) initiatives. The adoption of modern contraceptives, especially long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC), and permanent family planning methods in the country is challenging and has yet to reach an optimal level. These challenges are deeply rooted in the lack of informed decision-making, as well as demographic and maternal obstetric history. Interventions tailored according to women's needs can address the challenges faced by FP programs. This paper presents the findings of the implementation of a client-centered counseling and facilitation approach in an urban slum in Karachi, Pakistan. Such an approach has the potential to inform women and help them make better decisions regarding their health. METHODS: In Rehri Goth, a slum located in Karachi, client-centered counseling along with facilitation at the facility was implemented to encourage the adoption of any modern contraceptive methods, with a specific emphasis on promoting the use of LARCs and permanent methods (where needed) among married women of reproductive age (MWRA). This approach was integrated into the existing Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health (MNCH) services established in 2014. During the routine delivery of services, data were collected on various aspects including demographic characteristics, obstetric history, motivation to adopt LARCs, and reasons for refusal. RESULTS: A total of N = 3079 eligible MWRA received client-centered counseling, and 60.3% accepted modern contraceptive methods after counseling. Furthermore, 32.5% of these MWRA adopted LARCs or permanent methods. Factors explaining reluctance to adopt any method by MWRA despite specialized counselling were: age >25 years (AOR:1.28, 95% CI:1.08-1.51), no formal education (AOR:1.58, 95% CI:1.36-1.89), having no decision making role at household (AOR:1.60, 95% CI:1.36-1.89), the desire of female or male progeny (AOR:1.86, 95% CI:1.59-2.25) and age of youngest alive ≥3 years (AOR:1.50, 95% CI:1.22-1.84). Factors explaining adoption of short-term methods instead of LARCs or permanent method were: being resident in high under-five mortality clusters (AOR:1.56, 95% CI:1.14-2.14), maternal age > 25 years (AOR:1.88, 95% CI: 1.47-2.40), no decision-making role (AOR:11.19, 95% CI:8.74-14.34), no history of abortions (AOR:2.59, 95% CI:1.79-3.75), no female child (AOR:1.85, 95% CI:1.30-2.65) and ≤ 2 children (AOR:1.74, 95% CI:1.08-2.81). CONCLUSION: Considering the obstacles mothers face when it comes to accessing extended contraception, public health officials can devise effective strategies that empower MWRA to make well-informed and empowered choices regarding their families and reproductive health.

197. Differences in the metabolomic profile of the human palatine tonsil between pediatrics and adults.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Lee S, Kim S, Kim SD

198. Two-Country HANK and trade friction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Yang Y, Zhang C, Hou W.

199. The association between religiosity and resilience among young trans women.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Wang JC, McFarland W, Arayasirikul S

200. Can women's reports in client exit interviews be used to measure and track progress of antenatal care services quality? Evidence from a facility assessment census in Malawi.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Mchenga M, Burger R, von Fintel D.

INTRODUCTION: Unlike household surveys, client exit interviews are conducted immediately after a consultation and therefore provides an opportunity to capture routine performance and level of service quality. This study examines the validity and reliability of women's reports on selected ANC interventions in exit interviews conducted in Malawi. METHODS: Using data from the 2013-2014 Malawi service provision facility census, we compared women's reports in exit interviews regarding the contents of ANC received with reports obtained through direct observation by a trained healthcare professional. The validity of six indicators was tested using two measures: the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the inflation factor (IF). Reliability of women's reports was measured using the Kappa coefficient (κ) and the prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK). Finally, we examined whether reporting reliability varied significantly by individual and facility characteristics. RESULTS: Of the six indicators, two concrete and observable measures had high reporting accuracy and met the validity criteria for both AUC ≥ 0.7 and 0.75>IF>1.25, namely whether the provider prescribed or gave malaria prophylaxis (AUC: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.83-0.86; IF: 0.96) or iron/folic tablets (AUC: (0.84 95% CI: 0.81-0.87; IF:1.00). Whereas four measures related to counselling had lower reporting accuracy: whether the provider offered counselling about nutrition in pregnancy (AUC: 0.69, 95%CI: 0.67-0.71; IF = 1.26), delivery preparation (AUC: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.60-065; IF = 0.99), pregnancy related complications (AUC: 0.59, 95%CI: 0.56-0.61; IF = 1.11), and iron/folic acid side effects (AUC:0.58, 95% CI: 0.55-0.60; IF = 1.42). Similarly, the observable measures had high reliability with both κ and PABAK values in the ranges of ≥ 0.61 and ≥ 0.80. Respondent's age, primiparous status, number of antenatal visits, and the type of health provider increased the likelihood of reporting reliability. CONCLUSION: In order to enhance the measurement of quality of ANC services, our study emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the type of information women are asked to recall and the timing of the interviews. While household survey programmes such as the demographic health survey and multiple indicator cluster survey are commonly used as data sources for measuring intervention coverage and quality, policy makers should complement such data with more reliable sources like routine data from health information systems.

201. Pathways for socio-economic system transitions expressed as a Markov chain.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Schweizer VJ, Jamieson-Lane AD, Cai H

202. A longitudinal analysis of selective motor control during gait in individuals with cerebral palsy and the relation to gait deviations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Sorek G, Goudriaan M, Schurr I

203. Cohort profile: The Corona Behavioral Unit cohort, a longitudinal mixed-methods study on COVID-19-related behavior, well-being and policy support in the Netherlands.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

van den Boom W, van Dijk M, Snijders B

204. T-RAC: Study protocol of a randomised clinical trial for assessing the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of adding an exergame-augmented dynamic imagery intervention to the behavioural activation treatment of depression.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Tiba A, Drugaș M, Sârbu I

205. Risk prediction models for mortality and readmission in patients with acute heart failure: A protocol for systematic review, critical appraisal, and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Zhang X, Zhou K, You L

INTRODUCTION: A considerable number of risk models, which predict outcomes in mortality and readmission rates, have been developed for patients with acute heart failure (AHF) to help stratify patients by risk level, improve decision making, and save medical resources. However, some models exist in a clinically useful manner such as risk scores or online calculators, while others are not, providing only limited information that prevents clinicians and patients from using them. The reported performance of some models varied greatly when predicting at multiple time points and being validated in different cohorts, which causes model users uncertainty about the predictive accuracy of these models. The foregoing leads to users facing difficulties in the selection of prediction models, and even sometimes being reluctant to utilize models. Therefore, a systematic review to assess the performance at multiple time points, applicability, and clinical impact of extant prediction models for mortality and readmission in AHF patients is essential. It may facilitate the selection of models for clinical implementation. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: Four databases will be searched from their inception onwards. Multivariable prognostic models for mortality and/or readmission in AHF patients will be eligible for review. Characteristics and the clinical impact of included models will be summarized qualitatively and quantitatively, and models with clinical utility will be compared with those without. Predictive performance measures of included models with an analogous clinical outcome appraised repeatedly, will be compared and synthesized by a meta-analysis. Meta-analysis of validation studies for a common prediction model at the same time point will also be performed. We will also provide an overview of critical appraisal of the risk of bias, applicability, and reporting transparency of included studies using the PROBAST tool and TRIPOD statement. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number CRD42021256416.

206. Effect of goal-oriented prenatal education on birth preparedness, complication readiness and institutional delivery among semi-urban pregnant women in Nigeria: A quasi-experimental study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Akinwaare MO, Oluwatosin OA.

BACKGROUND: High maternal mortality has been associated with inadequate Birth preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) and non-institutional delivery in developing countries. Therefore, there is a need for proven interventions that will improve BPCR and institutional delivery to reduce maternal mortality. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of Goal-Oriented Prenatal Education (GOPE) on pregnant women's BPCR and institutional delivery. METHODS: The study adopted a quasi-experimental two-group pre and post-test design. Two Local Government Areas (LGAs) were randomly selected from the six semi-urban LGAs in Ibadan. These LGAs were randomized into an intervention and control group. Two Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) were randomly selected from each LGA, and 400 pregnant women who registered for antenatal care in the selected PHCs, and met the inclusion criteria were purposively selected to participate in the study. A validated questionnaire and checklist were adapted for data collection at baseline and post-intervention. The pregnant women in the intervention group received GOPE focusing on knowledge and attitude to BPCR. Participants' place of birth was documented at delivery. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and the Mann-Whitney U test at α0.05. RESULTS: Good knowledge of BPCR was found in 65.5% of pregnant women at baseline and 91.8% post-intervention. Good BPCR practice was found in 95.3% and 73.1% of women in the intervention and control groups respectively. At delivery, 93.5% and 53.5% had institutional delivery in the intervention and control groups respectively. A significant difference (p<0.001) was observed in BPCR knowledge and attitude post-intervention, as well as in BPCR practice and institutional delivery between women in the intervention and control group. CONCLUSIONS: Goal-oriented prenatal education improved birth preparedness and complication readiness as well as institutional delivery among pregnant women. This should be integrated into routine prenatal education in Nigeria.

207. Temporal integration of infrasound at threshold.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Friedrich B, Joost H, Fedtke T

208. Analytical performances of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay using stool specimens to improve the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis in Burkina Faso, a tuberculosis endemic country.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Kaboré OD, Millogo A, Sanogo B

209. RISK aversion in Italian forensic and non-forensic patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Canessa N, Iozzino L, Andreose S

210. A cluster randomized trial assessing the impact of personalized prescribing feedback on antibiotic prescribing for uncomplicated acute cystitis to family physicians.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Carney G, Maclure M, Patrick DM

211. Make a choice: A rapid strategy for minimizing peat in horticultural press pots substrates using a constrained mixture design and surface response approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Sradnick A, Werner M, Körner O.

212. Modeling vulnerability and intervention targets in the Borderline Personality Disorder system: A network analysis of in silico and in vivo interventions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Jiménez S, Arango de Montis I, Garza-Villarreal EA.

213. Epidemiology of bovine schistosomiasis and associated risk factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review with meta-analysis of published articles, 2008-2018.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Dagnaw M, Wodajnew B, Fentie T

Schistosomiasis is a tropical and subtropical parasitic infection that affects both animals and humans. It's caused by the Schistosoma genus and spreads via snails as an intermediate host. Schistosoma bovis is widely spread in Ethiopia's Northern, Eastern, Southwestern, and Central regions. It is an economically significant cattle disease with global health implications. Despite numerous prevalence studies of bovine schistosomiasis in different regions of the country, no systematic review and meta-analysis of the disease has ever been undertaken. As a reason, the purpose of this research was to provide information that can be used in the planning and design of Schistosoma interventions in Ethiopia, as the world aims to eliminate schistosomiasis as a public health problem by 2030. The PRISMA statement guidline was used to check the eligiblities of the included studies. Electronic bibliographic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, HINARI, and Web of science, reference lists from retriv articles, books, libraries, megazins and existing reviews manaually were employed for literature searches. The pooled prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis and heterogeneity among included studies was estimated by employing random effect models and the inverse variance index, respectively. To investigate the source of heterogeneity across and within studies, subgroup analysis was undertaken based on sample size, study years, and study regions. To assess publication bias and small study effects, funnel plotsand Egger's regression test were used. The pooled prevalence was calculated with a 95% confidence interval using STATA 17 software. To identify the various risk variables related to the prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis, a pooled odd ratio was used Based on the inclusion criteria, a total of 20 studies were discovered and included in the meta-analysis. The prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis was found to range from 22 to 45.7%. In this meta-analysis, the estimated pooled prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis was 24% (95% CI: 17% to 31%). Substantial heterogeneity was observed across the included studies (I2 = 88.04%; p< 0.001). The results of the funnel plot and Egger'stests revealed no substantial publication bias (Egger's test; p = 0.509). The pooled odds ratio indicated that poor body condition was positively associated with the infection rate of bovine schistosomiasis (OR: 4.915, 95% CI: 2.675 to 9.030; p<0.001), with poor body conditioned animals having 4.915 times higher likelihood to schistosomiasis infection. This review found that the overall prevalence of bovine schistosomiasis was high and the body condition of animals was identified risk factor for Schistosoma infection among the studied factors. Therefore, this review found that the occurrence of bovine schistosomiasis was strongly associated with the state of body condition of animals. Further, sufficient numbers of prospective studies should be conducted to address other potential risk factors of bovine schistosomiasis in Ethiopia.

214. Nationwide implementation of personalized outcomes forecasts to support physical therapists in treating patients with intermittent claudication: Protocol for an interrupted time series study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Sinnige A, Kittelson A, Rutgers KM

INTRODUCTION: Shared decision-making is the cornerstone of patient-centered care. However, evidence suggests that the application of shared decision-making in physical therapy practice is limited. To elicit shared decision-making and thereby potentially improve patient outcomes for patients with intermittent claudication, we developed a decision support system. This decision support system provides personalized outcomes forecasts that visualize the estimated walking distance of an individual patient. We hypothesize that personalized outcomes forecasts can support physical therapists in personalizing care to the needs and priorities of the individual patient to improve therapy outcomes. RESEARCH OBJECTIVES: The primary aim is to evaluate the impact of personalized outcomes forecasts for patients with intermittent claudication to optimize personalized treatment. Second, this study aims to evaluate the process of implementation. METHODS: This study uses a prospective interrupted time series (ITS) design. Participating physical therapists are divided into four clusters. Every month of the study period, a new cluster will be invited to begin using the decision support system. We aim to include data of 11,250 newly referred patients for physical therapy treatment. All therapists associated with a network of specialized therapists (Chronic CareNet) and patients treated by these therapists are eligible to participate. The decision support system, called the KomPas, makes use of personalized outcomes forecasts, which visualize the estimated outcome of supervised exercise therapy for an individual patient with intermittent claudication. Personalized outcomes forecasts are developed using a neighbors-based approach that selects patients similar to the index patient (a.k.a. neighbors) from a large database. Outcomes to evaluate impact of implementation are patients' functional and maximal walking distance, quality of life and shared decision-making. Process evaluation will be measured in terms of utilization efficacy, including the outcomes dropout rate and reasons to (not) use the personalized outcomes forecasts. Data will be routinely collected through two online systems: the Chronic CareNet Quality system, and the website logs of the decision support system. Additionally, observations and semi-structured interviews will be conducted with a small subset of therapists. ETHICS: Formal medical ethical approval by the Medical Research Ethics Committees United 'MEC-U' was not required for this study under Dutch law (reference number 2020-6250).

215. Clinical features and outcomes of hospitalised patients with COVID-19 and Parkinsonian disorders: A multicentre UK-based study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 31

Sorrell L, Leta V, Barnett A

216. The effect of body size and composition on lumbar spine trabecular bone score in morphologically diverse subjects.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Malczewska-Lenczowska J, Surała O, Sitkowski D

217. Acceptance of and adherence with long-term positive airway pressure treatment in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Laratta CR, Moore LE, Jen R

BACKGROUND: Long-term noninvasive positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment is effective treatment for sleep-related breathing disorders and chronic hypercarbic respiratory failure secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). PAP treatment may be delivered as continuous positive airway pressure or noninvasive ventilation. Success in initiating PAP treatment and barriers to its use in adult patients with COPD are largely unknown. This systematic review aims to identify the acceptance of and adherence to PAP treatment prescribed for long-term use in adult patients with COPD and to summarize variables associated with these measures. METHODS: Seven online electronic databases will be searched by an experienced medical librarian to identify records containing the concepts "obstructive airways disease" and "noninvasive positive airway pressure" and "acceptance" or "adherence". Randomized and non-randomized studies of interventions will be included. Citation lists from relevant articles will be reviewed, and experts will be contacted regarding unpublished studies. Abstracts from key conferences between 2018-2023 and Google Scholar search results will be reviewed for inclusion. Titles, abstracts and full texts will be reviewed independently for inclusion by two reviewers. Data extraction will be completed by one author using a pre-established form and primary outcomes confirmed by a second author. Methodological quality will be evaluated. If sufficient data are available for meta-analysis, a pooled summary statistic for the primary outcome will be calculated using a random-effects generic inverse-variance meta-analysis, weighted proportion or weighted medians-based approach. Subgroup analysis will explore clinically meaningful sources of heterogeneity. Variables that are associated with acceptance and adherence will be described. DISCUSSION: Long-term PAP treatment is a complex intervention prescribed to patients with COPD for several indications. Synthesis of the evidence on success with PAP treatment and variables associated with acceptance or adherence will inform program and policy development for supporting patients with COPD who are prescribed this therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Systematic review registration: This protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on July 13, 2021 (registration number CRD42021259262), with revisions submitted on April 17, 2023.

218. School-based physical activity interventions among children and adolescents in the Middle East and Arabic speaking countries: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Alalawi A, Blank L, Goyder E.

BACKGROUND: It is widely recognised that noncommunicable diseases are on the rise worldwide, partly due to insufficient levels of physical activity (PA). It is a particularly concerning health issue among children and adolescents in Arabic countries where cultural and environmental factors may limit their opportunity for engaging in physical activities. AIM: This review sought to assess the effectiveness of school-based PA interventions for increasing PA among schoolchildren aged six to 18 years in Middle Eastern and Arabic-speaking countries. METHODS: A systematic literature search was developed to identify studies reporting the evaluation of school-based PA interventions in Arabic-speaking countries. Four different databases were searched from January 2000 to January 2023: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus and CINAHL. Article titles and abstracts were screened for relevance. Full article scrutiny of retrieved shortlisted articles was undertaken. After citation searches and reference checking of included papers, full data extraction, quality assessment and narrative synthesis was undertaken for all articles that met the inclusion criteria. This review adhered to PRISMA guidelines for conducting systematic reviews. RESULTS: Seventeen articles met the inclusion criteria. Eleven articles reported statistically significant improvements in the levels of PA among their participants. Based largely on self-reported outcomes, increases in PA between 58% and 72% were reported. The studies with a follow-up period greater than three months reported sustained PA levels. There are a limited range of types of programmes evaluated and evaluations were only identified from 30% of the countries in the region. Relatively few studies focused solely on PA interventions and most of the interventions were multi-component (lifestyle, diet, education). CONCLUSIONS: This review adds to the existing body of research about the efficacy of school-based interventions to increase physical activity levels. To date, few evaluations assess PA specific interventions and most of the interventions were multi-component including education components on lifestyle and diet. Long-term school-based interventions combined with rigorous theoretical and methodological frameworks are necessary to develop, implement and evaluate PA interventions for children and adolescents in Arabic-speaking countries. Also, future work in this area must also consider the complex systems and agents by which physical activity is influenced.

219. The effects of probabilistic context inference on motor adaptation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Cuevas Rivera D, Kiebel S.

220. Food frequency questionnaire for foods high in sodium: Validation with the triads method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Souza DS, Santos BI, Costa BM

221. Breaking the mold: Study strategies of students who improve their achievement on introductory biology exams.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Sebesta AJ, Bray Speth E.

222. Food insecurity among Asian Americans: A scoping review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Ro S, Pham NH, Huynh VN

INTRODUCTION: Food insecurity is prevalent in the U.S. and is associated with deleterious health, behavioral, and social consequences. Food insecurity is currently addressed largely through public and private food assistance programs (e.g., the Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program, and food pantries). A body of research has explored racial and ethnic disparities and differences in food insecurity and coping strategies. However, limited literature has explored these experiences among Asian Americans and Asian origin groups in the United States. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this review is to establish what is known about the experience of food insecurity and nutrition program participation in the Asian American population and among Asian origin groups and to suggest further research and policy action to better address food insecurity in this population. METHODS: Our review is guided by the methodological framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and refined and outlined by Levac and colleagues and the Joanna Briggs Institute. We will search key terms related to food insecurity and Asian Americans in Medline (Ovid), the Cochrane Library (Wiley), CINAHL Plus with Full Text (Ebsco), PsycINFO (Ebsco), and Scopus (Elsevier). An article will be included if it was published in the English language; is a peer reviewed research manuscript and reports primary research findings from analyses; and describes food insecurity or strategies to cope with food insecurity among individuals of Asian origins living in the U.S. An article will be excluded if it is a book, conference proceedings, or grey literature (e.g., thesis or dissertation); is a commentary, editorial, or opinion piece without primary research data; contains only research conducted outside of the U.S.; includes Asians in the sample but does not provide separate data on food insecurity or strategies to cope with food insecurity among Asians; and describes only dietary changes or patterns but not food insecurity. Two or more reviewers will participate in the study screening and selection process. We will record information from the final articles chosen to be included in the review in a data table template and will also prepare a summary narrative with key findings. EXPECTED OUTPUTS: Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. The findings from this review will be of interest to researchers and practitioners and inform further research and policy to better address food insecurity among this population.

223. Perception of the purchase budget (BGT) and purchase intention in smartphone selling industry: A cross-country analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

N'da K, Ge J, Ji-Fan Ren S

224. Evidence from UK Research Ethics Committee members on what makes a good research ethics review, and what can be improved.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Sidaway M, Collett C, Kolstoe SE.

225. The effectiveness of ergonomic intervention for preventing work-related musculoskeletal disorders in agricultural workers: A systematic review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Jirapongsuwan A, Klainin-Yobas P, Songkham W

226. Student nurse education and preparation for palliative care: A scoping review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Durojaiye A, Ryan R, Doody O.

BACKGROUND: The World Health Organisation and palliative care stakeholders recommend that healthcare workers are educated in palliative care. Provision of high-quality palliative care is fundamental to nursing practice. However, caring for palliative care patients and meeting family needs is challenging without appropriate knowledge and experience. Palliative care education and clinical skill development for undergraduate student nurses is a priority to ensure graduate nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skill to deliver safe and competent care. METHODS: A scoping review guided by Arksey and O'Malley's framework was used to identify undergraduate student nurses' palliative care education and preparation. A comprehensive literature search of five electronic databases and grey literature were conducted from January 2002 to December 2021. The aim was to review the empirical evidence and ascertain how undergraduate student nurses' palliative care education is organised, facilitated, delivered and evaluated. Screening was performed independently by two reviewers against eligibility criteria with meetings to discuss included papers and form a consensus. Data was extracted and related to palliative care undergraduate student nurses' education, educational model, methodology, key findings, and recommendations. Analysed and summarised data was mapped onto the four key review questions (educational models utilised, methods used to assess effectiveness, facilitators/barriers and gaps in the literature). RESULTS: 34 papers met the criteria for this review. The review highlights that undergraduate nursing palliative care education is more evident in high income countries. Limited and diverse published research existing in low- and middle-income countries. Educational models utilised were theoretical and experiential learning and educational process, early integration and multiple learning methods which were highlighted as facilitating factors. However, crowded curricula, lack of palliative care clinical placement expertise, difficulty providing clinical placement, timing and delivery of palliative care and difficulty responding to simulated environments (manikins) were perceived barriers. Nevertheless, palliative care education can increase knowledge, positive attitude, self-confidence and adequate preparation of undergraduate student nurses. CONCLUSION: This review highlights that there is limited research regarding the timing and delivery of palliative care principles and practice in undergraduate student nurse education. Early integration of palliative care education impacts upon students perceived preparedness for practice and positively influences their attitudes to palliative care provision.

227. The effect of age on the induction dose of propofol for general anesthesia in dogs.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Hampton CE, da Cunha A, Desselle A

OBJECTIVE: In people, the dose of propofol (DOP) required for procedural sedation and anesthesia decreases significantly with age. The objective of this study was to determine if the DOP required to perform endotracheal intubation decreases with age in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 1397 dogs. METHODS: Data from dogs anesthetized at referral center (2017-2020) were analyzed with three multivariate linear regression models with backward elimination using a combination of either absolute age, physiologic age, or life expectancy (ratio between age at the time of anesthetic event and expected age of death for each breed obtained from previous literature) as well as other factors as independent variables, and DOP as the dependent variable. The DOP for each quartile of life expectancy (<25%, 25-50%, 50-75%, 75-100%, >100%) was compared using one-way ANOVA. Significance was set at alpha = 0.025. RESULTS: Mean age was 7.2 ± 4.1 years, life expectancy 59.8 ± 33%, weight 19 ± 14 kg, and DOP 3.76 ± 1.8 mg kg-1. Among age models, only life expectancy was a predictor of DOP (-0.37 mg kg-1; P = 0.013) but of minimal clinical importance. The DOP by life age expectancy quartile was 3.9 ± 2.3, 3.8 ± 1.8, 3.6 ± 1.8, 3.7 ± 1.7, and 3.4 ± 1.6 mg kg-1, respectively (P = 0.20). Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Maltese, mixed breed dogs under 10 kg, and Shih Tzu required higher DOP. Status of neutered male, ASA E, and Boxer, Labrador and Golden Retriever breeds decreased DOP, along with certain premedication drugs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In contrast to what is observed in people, an age cut-off predictive of DOP does not exist. Percentage of elapsed life expectancy along with other factors such as breed, premedication drug, emergency procedure, and reproductive status significantly alter DOP. In older dogs, the dose of propofol can be adjusted based on their elapsed life expectancy.

228. FedDNA: Federated learning using dynamic node alignment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Wang S, Zhu X.

229. Validation of the shotgun metabarcoding approach for comprehensively identifying herbal products containing plant, fungal, and animal ingredients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Zhang Z, Mu W, Kong W

230. Association of reduced serum EGF and leptin levels with the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder: A case-control study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Sohan M, Qusar MMAS, Shahriar M

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a heterogeneous mental disorder having a very diverse course and causing a significant changes in daily life. Though the exact pathophysiology of depression is still not known, an alteration in the serum levels of cytokines and neurotrophic factors was seen in MDD subjects. In this study, we compared the serum levels of 'pro-inflammatory cytokine leptin and neurotrophic factor EGF' in healthy controls (HCs) and MDD patients. To make the findings more accurate, we eventually looked for a correlation between altered serum leptin and EGF levels and the severity of the disease condition. METHODS: For this case-control study, about 205 MDD patients were enrolled from the Department of Psychiatry, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, and about 195 HCs were enrolled from various parts of Dhaka. The DSM-5 was utilized to evaluate and diagnose the participants. The HAM-D 17 scale was used to measure the severity of depression. After collecting blood samples, they were centrifuged to produce clear serum samples. These serum samples were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits to measure serum leptin and EGF levels. RESULTS: We observed lowered serum EGF levels in MDD patients compared to HCs (524.70 ± 27.25 pg/ml vs. 672.52 ± 49.64 pg/ml, p = 0.009), and HAM-D score was elevated in MDD patients compared to HCs (17.17 ± 0.56 vs. 2.49 ± 0.43, p<0.001). But no correlation was established between serum EGF levels and the severity of depression. However, no significant differences were observed between MDD patients and HCs in the case of serum leptin levels (p = 0.231). CONCLUSION: Our study findings suggest that reduced serum EGF levels have an impact on the pathogenesis of depression. But as per our investigation, the severity of depression is not correlated with altered EGF levels. Our findings regarding the association of EGF with MDD would help to use EGF as a risk indicator of depression. We suggest further clinical investigations to determine the precise function of leptin and EGF in depression.

231. Automated identification and tracking of cells in Cytometry of Reaction Rate Constant (CRRC).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Nebbioso G, Yosief R, Koshkin V

Cytometry of Reaction Rate Constant (CRRC) is a method for studying cell-population heterogeneity using time-lapse fluorescence microscopy, which allows one to follow reaction kinetics in individual cells. The current and only CRRC workflow utilizes a single fluorescence image to manually identify cell contours which are then used to determine fluorescence intensity of individual cells in the entire time-stack of images. This workflow is only reliable if cells maintain their positions during the time-lapse measurements. If the cells move, the original cell contours become unsuitable for evaluating intracellular fluorescence and the CRRC experiment will be inaccurate. The requirement of invariant cell positions during a prolonged imaging is impossible to satisfy for motile cells. Here we report a CRRC workflow developed to be applicable to motile cells. The new workflow combines fluorescence microscopy with transmitted-light microscopy and utilizes a new automated tool for cell identification and tracking. A transmitted-light image is taken right before every fluorescence image to determine cell contours, and cell contours are tracked through the time-stack of transmitted-light images to account for cell movement. Each unique contour is used to determine fluorescence intensity of cells in the associated fluorescence image. Next, time dependencies of the intracellular fluorescence intensities are used to determine each cell's rate constant and construct a kinetic histogram "number of cells vs rate constant." The new workflow's robustness to cell movement was confirmed experimentally by conducting a CRRC study of cross-membrane transport in motile cells. The new workflow makes CRRC applicable to a wide range of cell types and eliminates the influence of cell motility on the accuracy of results. Additionally, the workflow could potentially monitor kinetics of varying biological processes at the single-cell level for sizable cell populations. Although our workflow was designed ad hoc for CRRC, this cell-segmentation/cell-tracking strategy also represents an entry-level, user-friendly option for a variety of biological assays (i.e., migration, proliferation assays, etc.). Importantly, no prior knowledge of informatics (i.e., training a model for deep learning) is required.

232. Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and self-paced time-trial performance in older untrained men.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Chia E, Marino FE.

233. Clinical application of 4% sodium citrate and heparin in the locking of central venous catheters (excluding dialysis catheters) in intensive care unit patients: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Deng Y, Xing J, Tan Z

OBJECTIVES: The feasibility of utilizing 4% sodium citrate as an alternative locking solution for central venous catheters (CVCs) (excluding dialysis catheters) was assessed. METHODS: Using heparin saline and 4% sodium citrate as locking solution, then 152 patients in ICU undergoing infusion with central venous catheters, were randomly assigned to receive either 10 U/mL heparin saline or 4% sodium citrate. The used outcome indicators include: four indexes of blood coagulation at 10 minutes after locking and 7 d after the first locking, bleeding around the puncture site and subcutaneous hematoma rate, gastrointestinal bleeding rate, catheter indwelling time, catheter occlusion rate, catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) rate, rate of ionized calcium < 1.0 mmol/L. The main outcome indicator was the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) at 10 min after tube locking. The trial was approved by relevant authorities (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, no: ChiCTR2200056615, registered on February 9, 2022, http://www.chictr.org.cn; Ethics Committee of People's Hospital of Zhongjiang County, no: JLS-2021-034, approved at May 10, 2021, and no: JLS-2022-027, approved at May 30, 2022). RESULTS: Among the main outcome measures, the heparin group showed a significant increase in APTT compared to the sodium citrate group at 10 min after locking (LSMD = 8.15, 95%Cl 7.1 to 9.2, P < 0.001). Among the secondary outcome measures, the heparin group demonstrated a significant increase in prothrombin time (PT) compared to the sodium citrate group at 10 minutes after locking (LSMD = 0.86, 95%CI 0.12 to 1.61, P = 0.024). It is found that APTT (LSMD = 8.05, 95%CI 6.71 to 9.4, P < 0.001), PT (LSMD = 0.78, 95%CI 0.14 to 1.42, P = 0.017) and fibrinogen (FB) (LSMD = 1.15, 95%CI 0.23 to 2.08, P = 0.014) at 7 d after locking are increased in the heparin group compared to sodium citrate group. There was no significant difference in catheter indwelling time between the two groups (P = 0.456). The incidence of catheter blockage was lower in sodium citrate group (RR = 0.36, 95%CI 0.15 to 0.87, P = 0.024). No CRBSI occurred in the two groups. Among the safety evaluation indexes, the incidence of bleeding around the puncture site and subcutaneous hematoma was lower in sodium citrate group (RR = 0.1, 95%CI 0.01 to 0.77, P = 0.027). There was no significant difference in the incidence of calcium ion < 1.0 mmol/L between the two groups (P = 0.333). CONCLUSIONS: In ICU patients using CVCs (excluding dialysis catheters) infusion, employing 4% sodium citrate as a locking liquid can reduce the risk of bleeding and catheter occlusion without any hypocalcemia.

234. "How is your thesis going?"-Ph.D. students' perspectives on mental health and stress in academia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 3

Friedrich J, Bareis A, Bross M

235. China's economic development quality grows faster than economic quantity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Xu G, Dong H, Shi X.

236. Effect of the INTER-ACT lifestyle intervention on maternal mental health during the first year after childbirth: A randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Van Uytsel H, Ameye L, Devlieger R

We assess whether the INTER-ACT postpartum lifestyle intervention influences symptoms of depression and anxiety, sense of coherence and quality of life during the first year after childbirth. A total of 1047 women of the INTER-ACT RCT were randomized into the intervention (n = 542) or control arm (n = 505). The lifestyle intervention consisted of 4 face-to-face coaching sessions, supported by an e-health app. Anthropometric and mental health data were collected at baseline, end of intervention and 6-months follow-up. We applied mixed models to assess whether the evolution over time of depressive symptoms, anxiety, sense of coherence and quality of life differed between the intervention and control arm, taking into account the women's pre-pregnancy BMI. There was no statistical evidence for a difference in evolution in anxiety or quality of life between intervention and control arm. But an improvement in symptoms of depression and sense of coherence was observed in women who received the intervention, depending on the mother's pre-pregnancy BMI. Women with normal/overweight pre-pregnancy BMI, reported a decrease in EPDS between baseline and end of intervention, and the decrease was larger in the intervention arm (control arm: -0.42 (95% CI, -0.76 to -0.08); intervention arm: -0.71 (95% CI, -1.07 to -0.35)). Women with pre-pregnancy obesity showed an increase in EPDS between baseline and end of intervention, but the increase was less pronounced in the intervention arm (control arm: +0.71 (95% CI, -0.12 to 1.54); intervention arm: +0.42 (95% CI -0.42 to 1.25)). Women with a normal or obese pre-pregnancy BMI in the intervention arm showed a decrease in sense of coherence between baseline and end of intervention (-0.36) (95% CI, -1.60 to 0.88), while women with overweight pre-pregnancy showed an increase in sense of coherence (+1.53) (95% CI, -0.08 to 3.15) between baseline and end of intervention. Receiving the INTER-ACT postpartum lifestyle intervention showed improvement in depressive symptoms, in normal weight or overweight women on the short run, as well as improvement in sense of coherence in women with pre-pregnancy overweight only. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov;NCT02989142.

237. Acoustic indices as proxies for bird species richness in an urban green space in Metro Manila.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Diaz SDU, Gan JL, Tapang GA.

We assessed eight acoustic indices as proxies for bird species richness in the National Science Complex (NSC), University of the Philippines Diliman. The acoustic indices were the normalized Acoustic Complexity Index (nACI), Acoustic Diversity Index (ADI), inverse Acoustic Evenness Index (1-AEI), Bioacoustic Index (BI), Acoustic Entropy Index (H), Temporal Entropy Index (Ht), Spectral Entropy Index (Hf), and Acoustic Richness Index (AR). Low-cost, automated sound recorders using a Raspberry Pi were placed in three sites at the NSC to continuously collect 5-min sound samples from July 2020 to January 2022. We selected 840 5-min sound samples, equivalent to 70 hours, through stratified sampling and pre-processed them before conducting acoustic index analysis on the raw and pre-processed data. We measured Spearman's correlation between each acoustic index and bird species richness obtained from manual spectrogram scanning and listening to recordings. We compared the correlation coefficients between the raw and pre-processed.wav files to assess the robustness of the indices using Fisher's z-transformation. Additionally, we used GLMMs to determine how acoustic indices predict bird species richness based on season and time of day. The Spearman's rank correlation and GLMM analysis showed significant, weak negative correlations between the nACI, 1-AEI, Ht, and AR with bird species richness. The weak correlations suggest that the performance of acoustic indices are dependent on various factors, such as the local noise conditions, bird species composition, season, and time of day. Thus, ground-truthing of the acoustic indices should be done before applying them in studies. Among the eight indices, the nACI was the best-performing index, performing consistently across sites and independently of season and time of day. We highlight the importance of pre-processing sound data from urban settings and other noisy environments before acoustic index analysis, as this strengthens the correlation between index values and bird species richness.

238. The frequency of workplace violence against healthcare workers and affecting factors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Sari H, Yildiz İ, Çağla Baloğlu S

239. Environmental policy and equity prices.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Lehnert T.

240. Identifying adolescents' gaming preferences for a tobacco prevention social game: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Khalil GE, Kim J, McLean D

INTRODUCTION: Considering the dangers of adolescent tobacco use, the successful design of behavioral programs is crucial for tobacco prevention. According to preliminary research, social game interventions can improve adolescent tobacco outcomes. The current qualitative study aims to (1) uncover the gaming elements that adolescents deem important for a positive learning experience, and (2) confirm these gaming elements with adolescents who are presented with a tobacco prevention game concept that applies these elements. METHODS: Findings from this study are drawn from two phases. Phase 1 involved in-person focus group discussions (n = 15) and Phase 2 included three online focus groups and a paired interview with another set of adolescents (n = 15). The study was conducted under a project that aimed to design and test a social game-based tobacco prevention program for adolescents (Storm-Heroes). With open coding and thematic analysis, two research team members identified repeated topics and relevant quotes to organize them into themes. The themes evolved as new content was identified during the process. This process was repeated until thematic saturation was reached. RESULTS: Thematic analysis across Phase 1 and Phase 2 revealed four major themes: 1) Balance during gaming challenges, 2) Healthy social interaction, 3) Performance and creative freedom, and 4) Fictional world and game mechanics for tobacco prevention. CONCLUSION: This study identified specific intervention features that best fit the needs of adolescents in the context of a social game for tobacco prevention. For future research, we will use a participatory approach to allow adolescents to take part in the design process, improve Storm-Heroes, and develop health promotional messages that can be incorporated into the program. Ultimately, a board game for tobacco prevention is expected to bring adolescents together to create lasting memories that nudge them away from tobacco use and the harm it can cause.

241. Gold Particle Analyser: Detection and quantitative assessment of electron microscopy gold probes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Burgoyne T, Futter CE.

242. Return(s) on investment: Restoration spending in the Columbia River Basin and increased abundance of salmon and steelhead.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Jaeger WK, Scheuerell MD.

The decline in salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River Basin has been well documented, as have the decades-long, $9 billion restoration spending efforts by federal and state agencies. These efforts are mainly tied to Endangered Species Act (ESA) mandates for recovery of wild, naturally-spawning threatened or endangered fish species. The impact of these efforts remains poorly understood; many observers, including the federal courts, have long been concerned by the lack of evidence of recovery. Most studies evaluating restoration efforts have examined individual projects for specific species, reaches, or life stages, which limits the ability to make broad inferences at the basin level. There is a need to ask: is there evidence of an overall increase in wild fish abundance associated with the totality of these recovery efforts? To that end, the current study estimates fixed-effects panel regression models of adult returns of four species. Results indicate that restoration spending combined with hatchery production are associated with substantial increases in returning adult fish. Evidence of benefits to wild fish alone, however, require indirect approaches given the commingling of restoration spending with spending on hatchery releases, the impacts of spending on hatchery fish survival, and the density dependence effects of hatchery releases. To accomplish this, the models' predicted adult returns (both hatchery and wild fish) attributed to both spending and hatchery releases are compared to independent estimates of returning hatchery fish based on hatchery survival estimates (smolt-to-adult ratios). The comparison finds the model-predicted levels of adult returns due to spending and hatchery releases do not exceed the survival-rate based estimates for hatcheries alone, so that we are unable to reject the hypothesis of no benefits to wild fish from the restoration spending.

243. Patterns of brain atrophy in recently-diagnosed relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Meijboom R, York EN, Kampaite A

Recurrent neuroinflammation in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) is thought to lead to neurodegeneration, resulting in progressive disability. Repeated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain provides non-invasive measures of atrophy over time, a key marker of neurodegeneration. This study investigates regional neurodegeneration of the brain in recently-diagnosed RRMS using volumetry and voxel-based morphometry (VBM). RRMS patients (N = 354) underwent 3T structural MRI <6 months after diagnosis and 1-year follow-up, as part of the Scottish multicentre 'FutureMS' study. MRI data were processed using FreeSurfer to derive volumetrics, and FSL for VBM (grey matter (GM) only), to establish regional patterns of change in GM and normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) over time throughout the brain. Volumetric analyses showed a decrease over time (q<0.05) in bilateral cortical GM and NAWM, cerebellar GM, brainstem, amygdala, basal ganglia, hippocampus, accumbens, thalamus and ventral diencephalon. Additionally, NAWM and GM volume decreased respectively in the following cortical regions, frontal: 14 out of 26 regions and 16/26; temporal: 18/18 and 15/18; parietal: 14/14 and 11/14; occipital: 7/8 and 8/8. Left GM and NAWM asymmetry was observed in the frontal lobe. GM VBM analysis showed three major clusters of decrease over time: 1) temporal and subcortical areas, 2) cerebellum, 3) anterior cingulum and supplementary motor cortex; and four smaller clusters within the occipital lobe. Widespread GM and NAWM atrophy was observed in this large recently-diagnosed RRMS cohort, particularly in the brainstem, cerebellar GM, and subcortical and occipital-temporal regions; indicative of neurodegeneration across tissue types, and in accord with limited previous studies in early disease. Volumetric and VBM results emphasise different features of longitudinal lobar and loco-regional change, however identify consistent atrophy patterns across individuals. Atrophy measures targeted to specific brain regions may provide improved markers of neurodegeneration, and potential future imaging stratifiers and endpoints for clinical decision making and therapeutic trials.

244. Genetic diversity and drug sensitivity profile of Mycobacterium tuberculosis among children in Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Mollalign H, Getahun M, Diriba G

BACKGROUND: Worldwide, tuberculosis (TB) affects about one million children every year. The burden of the disease is higher in developing countries. However, there is limited information on the lineages and drug sensitivity patterns of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) infecting children in these countries, including Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the different lineages of the M. tuberculosis complex causing childhood pulmonary tuberculosis and evaluate the drug-sensitivity patterns to the first-line anti-TB drugs. METHOD: A total of 54 stored cultures were used in this study. The region of difference 9 (RD9) based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and spoligotyping were employed for the identification of the isolates at the species and lineages level respectively. Lineage identification was done by using the pre-existing database. Identification of clustering of the spoligotype patterns was by using the SPOLIDB3-based model. The result was retrieved by the most probable family format. Furthermore, the phenotypic, and genotypic drug-sensitivity test (DST) was performed using Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT™ 960) and GenoTypeMTBDRplus assay respectively. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 27 software. RESULT: Spoligotyping produced 39 interpretable results for M. tuberculosis. The majority (74.4%) of them were clustered into 7 groups, while the rest (25.6%) were single. The Euro-American (EA) lineage was the predominant lineage (64.1%) followed by the East-African Indian (EAI) (30.8%) and M. Africanum (5.1%) lineages. The most predominant subtypes were SIT37 (15.4%), SIT149 (12.8%), SIT25 (7.7%), and SIT53 (7.7%). Furthermore, of the identified SITs, T1 and CAS families consisted of 38.5% and 28.2% of the lineages respectively. Drug susceptibility was 91.9% by phenotypic method and 97.4% by molecular assay. The overall prevalence of any resistance was 7.8% and there was a single MDR-TB. CONCLUSION: Many of the isolates belong to the modern lineages (Euro American) representing the most common circulating strains in the country. More importantly, despites the tiny isolates tested, drug resistance is low. To fully describe the molecular epidemiology of MTBC lineages in children, we recommend a prospective large-scale study.

245. Anxiety and depression among caregivers of pediatric patients with tic disorder in western China: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Liu Z, Yang C, Yu D

BACKGROUND: Caregivers of pediatric patients with tic disorders (TD) are at high risk for anxiety and depression, but the situation of this disorder was rarely reported based on the Chinese population. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and potential contributing factors of anxiety and depression among caregivers of Chinese pediatric patients with TD. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out on caregivers of pediatric patients with TD at a women's and children's hospital in western China from January to June 2020. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect data, including socio-demographic information, disease and medication status, family situation and social relationship, cognition and attitude towards TD and treatment. Anxiety and depression were assessed using the self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) and self-rating depression scale (SDS), respectively. The univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyze the cross-sectional data. RESULTS: A total of 318 participants were included in this study, with a response rate of 89.58% (318/355). The average age of pediatric patients with TD was 8.38 ± 2.54 years, and 78.30% (249/318) of caregivers were aged between 30-50 years old. Overall, 14.78% (47/318) of caregivers presented the symptom of anxiety, with a mean SAS score of 54.81±5.26, and 19.81% (63/318) of caregivers presented the symptom of depression, with a mean SDS score of 59.64±5.83. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the common family relationship (OR = 2.512, p = 0.024), and pediatric patients with unharmonious social relationships (OR = 5.759, p = 0.043) and with introverted personality (OR = 2.402, p = 0.023) were significantly associated with anxiety in caregivers of pediatric patients with TD, as well as the single-parent family (OR = 4.805, p = 0.011), mistaken cognition of TD (OR = 0.357, p = 0.031), and pediatric patients with fewer friends (OR = 3.377, p = 0.006) were significantly associated with depression. CONCLUSIONS: Anxiety and depression are prevalent among caregivers of TD pediatric patients, which brings up the importance of psychiatric support for this group. Longitudinal studies need to be conducted to further confirm the causality before interventions to improve mental health are developed.

246. A comparative study to optimize experimental conditions of pentylenetetrazol and pilocarpine-induced epilepsy in zebrafish larvae.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Szep D, Dittrich B, Gorbe A

247. Cancer cells same as zombies reprogram normal cells via the secreted microenvironment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Rabiee S, Hoveizi E, Barati M

248. 3D modeling of vector/edge finite element method for multi-ablation technique for large tumor-computational approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Boregowda G, Mariappan P.

Microwave ablation (MWA) is a cancer thermal ablation treatment that uses electromagnetic waves to generate heat within the tissue. The goal of this treatment is to eliminate tumor cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. During MWA, excess heat generation can kill healthy cells. Hence, mathematical models and numerical techniques are required to analyze the heat distribution in the tissue before the treatment. The aim of this research is to explain the implementation of the 3D vector finite element method in a wave propagation model that simulates the specific absorption rate in the liver. The 3D Nedelec elements from H(curl; Ω) space are used to discretize the wave propagation model, and this implementation is helpful in solving many real-world problems that involve electromagnetic propagation with perfect conducting and absorbing boundary conditions. One of the difficulties in ablation treatment is creating a large ablation zone for a large tumor (diameter greater than 3 cm) in a short period of time with minimum damage to the surrounding tissue. This article addresses the aforementioned issue by introducing four antennas into the different places of the tumor sequentially and producing heat uniformly over the tumor. The results demonstrated that 95.5% of the tumor cells were killed with minimal damage to the healthy cells when the heating time was increased to 4 minutes at each position. Subsequently, we studied the temperature distribution and localised tissue contraction in the tissue using the three-dimensional bio-heat equation and temperature-time dependent model, respectively. The local tissue contraction is measured at arbitrary points in the domain and is more noticeable at temperatures higher than 102°C. The thermal damage in the liver during MWA treatment is investigated using the three-state cell death model. The system of partial differential equations is solved numerically due to the complex geometry of the domain, and the results are compared with experimental data to validate the models and parameters.

249. Impact of body composition on patient prognosis after SARS-Cov-2 infection.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Yamamoto T, Sugimoto K, Ichikawa S

250. Effectiveness of a preoperative orlistat-based weight management plan and its impact on the results of one-anastomosis gastric bypass: A retrospective study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Lo HC, Hsu SC.

251. Brain MRI segmentation of Zika-Exposed normocephalic infants shows smaller amygdala volumes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Ghosh S, Salan T, Riotti J

BACKGROUND: Infants with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) are known to exhibit characteristic brain abnormalities. However, the brain anatomy of Zika virus (ZIKV)-exposed infants, born to ZIKV-positive pregnant mothers, who have normal-appearing head characteristics at birth, has not been evaluated in detail. The aim of this prospective study is, therefore, to compare the cortical and subcortical brain structural volume measures of ZIKV-exposed normocephalic infants to age-matched healthy controls. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We acquired T2-MRI of the whole brain of 18 ZIKV-exposed infants and 8 normal controls on a 3T MRI scanner. The MR images were auto-segmented into eight tissue types and anatomical regions including the white matter, cortical grey matter, deep nuclear grey matter, corticospinal fluid, amygdala, hippocampus, cerebellum, and brainstem. We determined the volumes of these regions and calculated the total intracranial volume (TICV) and head circumference (HC). We compared these measurements between the two groups, controlling for infant age at scan, by first comparing results for all subjects in each group and secondly performing a subgroup analysis for subjects below 8 weeks of postnatal age at scan. ZIKV-exposed infants demonstrated a significant decrease in amygdala volume compared to the control group in both the group and subgroup comparisons (p<0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons using FDR). No significant volume differences were observed in TICV, HC, or any specific brain tissue structures or regions. Study limitations include small sample size, which was due to abrupt cessation of extramural funding as the ZIKV epidemic waned. CONCLUSION: ZIKV-exposed infants exhibited smaller volumes in the amygdala, a brain region primarily involved in emotional and behavioral processing. This brain MRI finding may lead to poorer behavioral outcomes and warrants long-term monitoring of pediatric cases of infants with gestational exposure to Zika virus as well as other neurotropic viruses.

252. A blend of medium-chain fatty acids, butyrate, organic acids, and a phenolic compound accelerates microbial maturation in newly weaned piglets.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Diether NE, Hulshof TG, Willing BP

253. COVID-19 self-testing using antigen rapid diagnostic tests: Feasibility evaluation among health-care workers and general population in Malawi.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Mukoka M, Sibanda E, Watadzaushe C

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 testing is critical for identifying cases to prevent transmission. COVID-19 self-testing has the potential to increase diagnostic testing capacity and to expand access to hard-to-reach areas in low-and-middle-income countries. We investigated the feasibility and acceptability of COVID-19 self-sampling and self-testing using SARS-CoV-2 Antigen-Rapid Diagnostic Tests (Ag-RDTs). METHODS: From July 2021 to February 2022, we conducted a mixed-methods cross-sectional study examining self-sampling and self-testing using Standard Q and Panbio COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test Device in Urban and rural Blantyre, Malawi. Health care workers and adults (18y+) in the general population were non-randomly sampled. RESULTS: Overall, 1,330 participants were enrolled of whom 674 (56.0%) were female and 656 (54.0%) were male with 664 for self-sampling and 666 for self-testing. Mean age was 30.7y (standard deviation [SD] 9.6). Self-sampling usability threshold for Standard Q was 273/333 (82.0%: 95% CI 77.4% to 86.0%) and 261/331 (78.8%: 95% CI 74.1% to 83.1%) for Panbio. Self-testing threshold was 276/335 (82.4%: 95% CI 77.9% to 86.3%) and 300/332 (90.4%: 95% CI 86.7% to 93.3%) for Standard Q and Panbio, respectively. Agreement between self-sample results and professional test results was 325/325 (100%) and 322/322 (100%) for Standard Q and Panbio, respectively. For self-testing, agreement was 332/333 (99.7%: 95% CI 98.3 to 100%) for Standard Q and 330/330 (100%: 95% CI 99.8 to 100%) for Panbio. Odds of achieving self-sampling threshold increased if the participant was recruited from an urban site (odds ratio [OR] 2.15 95% CI 1.44 to 3.23, P < .01. Compared to participants with primary school education those with secondary and tertiary achieved higher self-testing threshold OR 1.88 (95% CI 1.17 to 3.01), P = .01 and 4.05 (95% CI 1.20 to13.63), P = .02, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: One of the first studies to demonstrate high feasibility and acceptability of self-testing using SARS-CoV-2 Ag-RDTs among general and health-care worker populations in low- and middle-income countries potentially supporting large scale-up. Further research is warranted to provide optimal delivery strategies of self-testing.

254. Assemble the shallow or integrate a deep? Toward a lightweight solution for glyph-aware Chinese text classification.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Hou J, Wang P.

255. Fumagillin regulates stemness and malignancies in cancer stem-like cells derived from liver cancer via targeting to MetAP-2.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Zhang K, Hu J, Zhao Z.

256. Study protocol: Accommodative effects on the musculoskeletal system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Zieliński G, Matysik-Woźniak A, Pająk B

257. Economic analysis of open versus laparoscopic versus robot-assisted versus transanal total mesorectal excision in rectal cancer patients: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Geitenbeek RTJ, Burghgraef TA, Broekman M

258. Application of mendelian randomization to study the causal relationship between smoking and the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Huang Y, Li X, Ye W.

259. DNA and protein methyltransferases inhibition by adenosine dialdehyde reduces the proliferation and migration of breast and lung cancer cells by downregulating autophagy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Ghemrawi R, Al Qassem A, Ramadan A

260. Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage based on the improved combined method in evaluating blood loss: A retrospective cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Zheng F, Wen H, Shi L

OBJECTIVE: In view of the current clinical inaccuracies and underestimations of postpartum hemorrhage amount, this study aims to investigate the incidence, etiology, clinical characteristics of postpartum hemorrhage in different modes of delivery based on the combination of volumetric method, gravimetric method and area method in evaluating blood loss. DESIGN: This retrospective cohort study was conducted in Hangzhou Women's Hospital from January 2020 to June 2021, including 725 cases of postpartum hemorrhage among 18,977 parturients. Based on different modes of delivery, the participants were divided into three groups: vaginal delivery, forceps delivery, and cesarean section, for comparison. METHODS: Using an improved combined assessment method for blood loss, we retrospectively analyzed a cohort of parturients with postpartum hemorrhage who underwent vaginal delivery, forceps delivery, or cesarean section and were hospitalized in Hangzhou Women's Hospital from January 2020 to June 2021. RESULTS: (1) Among the 18,977 parturients, 725 cases of postpartum hemorrhage occurred, with an incidence rate of 3.8%, and severe postpartum hemorrhage accounted for 0.4% of the cases. (2) The incidence of postpartum hemorrhage was significantly higher in the forceps delivery group than in the vaginal delivery group (χ2 = 19.27, P<0.001), while the incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage was significantly higher in the cesarean section group than in the vaginal delivery group (χ2 = 8.71, P = 0.003). (3) The causes of postpartum hemorrhage were statistically different among the different delivery modes, with varying underlying factors (P<0.001). (4) Patients with postpartum hemorrhage in different delivery modes showed statistically significant differences in age, body mass index (BMI), birth weight, gestational age, gravidity, parity, the decline of postpartum peripheral blood hemoglobin concentration, and estimated blood loss (P<0.05). (5) The proportion of blood transfusion was significantly higher in the cesarean section group than in the vaginal delivery and forceps delivery groups (χ2 = 231.03, P<0.001). LIMITATIONS: This study is a single-center retrospective study, which may have led to selection bias in case selection. Additionally, the implementation of the combined three blood loss assessment methods may not have been strictly followed in all cases. Moreover, due to the mixing of bleeding with amniotic and irrigation fluids, the accuracy of evaluation may have been affected, leading to the possibility of inaccuracy of blood loss. CONCLUSIONS: Forceps delivery and cesarean section increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, but forceps delivery does not significantly increase the incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage. Uterine atony remains the leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage, while birth canal laceration and placental factors are the second most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage in forceps delivery and cesarean section, respectively. In this study, the volumetric method, gravimetric method and area method were combined to quantitatively assess postpartum hemorrhage amount. The combined method has strong clinical practicability and is less affected by subjective factors, although it also has limitations. In the future, we still need to focus on the early prediction and identification of postpartum hemorrhage, and further improve the quantitative assessment of postpartum blood loss.

261. Effect of the oil from the fatty tissues of Crocodylus siamensis on gut microbiome diversity and metabolism in mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Parunyakul K, Chuchoiy A, Kooltueon S

Dietary fat can alter host metabolism and gut microbial composition. Crocodile oil (CO) was extracted from the fatty tissues of Crocodylus siamensis. CO, rich in monounsaturated- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, has been reported to reduce inflammation, counter toxification, and improve energy metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of CO on gut microbiota (GM) in laboratory mice as well as the accompanying metabolic changes in the animals. Forty-five C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into five groups and orally administrated either sterile water (control [C]); 1 or 3% (v/w) CO (CO-low [CO-L] and CO-high [CO-H], respectively); or 1 or 3% (v/w) palm oil (PO-low and PO-high, respectively) for 11 weeks. Body weight gain, food intake, energy intake, blood glucose levels, and blood lipid profiles were determined. Samples from colon tissue were collected and the 16S rRNA genes were pyrosequenced to clarify GM analyses. The results showed that there were no differences in body weight and blood glucose levels. Food intake by the mice in the CO-L and CO-H groups was statistically significantly less when compared to that by the animals in the C group. However, neither CO treatment had a statistically significant effect on calorie intake when compared to the controls. The CO-H exhibited a significant increase in serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein but showed a downward trend in triglyceride levels compared to the control. The GM analyses revealed that both CO treatments have no significant influence on bacterial diversity and relative abundance at the phylum level, whereas increases of Choa1 and abundance-based coverage estimator indexes, distinct β-diversity, and Proteobacteria abundance were observed in the PO-high group compared with the C group. Furthermore, the abundance of Azospirillum thiophilum and Romboutsia ilealis was significantly higher in the CO-L and CO-H groups which could be associated with energy metabolic activity. Thus, CO may be an alternative fat source for preserving host metabolism and gut flora.

262. Physical well-being recovery trajectories by reconstruction modality in women undergoing mastectomy and breast reconstruction: Significant predictors and health-related quality of life outcomes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Xu C, Lu P, Pfob A

OBJECTIVES: We sought to identify trajectories of patient-reported outcomes, specifically physical well-being of the chest (PWBC), in patients who underwent postmastectomy breast reconstruction, and further assessed its significant predictors, and its relationship with health-related quality of life (HRQOL). METHODS: We used data collected as part of the Mastectomy Reconstruction Outcomes Consortium study within a 2-year follow-up in 2012-2017, with 1422, 1218,1199, and 1417 repeated measures at assessment timepoints of 0,3,12, and 24 months, respectively. We performed latent class growth analysis (LCGA) in the implant group (IMPG) and autologous group (AUTOG) to identify longitudinal change trajectories, and then assessed its significant predictors, and its relationship with HRQOL by conducting multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS: Of the included 1424 patients, 843 were in IMPG, and 581 were in AUTOG. Both groups experienced reduced PWBC at follow-up. LCGA identified four distinct PWBC trajectories (χ2 = 1019.91, p<0.001): low vs medium high vs medium low vs high baseline PWBC that was restored vs. not-restored after 2 years. In 76.63%(n = 646) of patients in IMPG and 62.99% (n = 366) in AUTOG, PWBC was restored after two years. Patients in IMPG exhibited worse PWBC at 3 months post-surgery than that in AUTOG. Patients with low baseline PWBC that did not improve at 2-year follow up (n = 28, 4.82% for AUTOG) were characterized by radiation following reconstruction and non-white ethnicity. In IMPG, patients with medium low-restored trajectory were more likely to experience improved breast satisfaction, while patients developing high-restored trajectories were less likely to have worsened psychosocial well-being. CONCLUSION: Although more women in IMPG experienced restored PWBC after 2 years, those in AUTOG exhibited a more favorable postoperative trajectory of change in PWBC. This finding can inform clinical treatment decisions, help manage patient expectations for recovery, and develop rehabilitation interventions contributing to enhancing the postoperative quality of life for breast cancer patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Iwai H, Yamamoto H.

264. An in-depth qualitative study of health care providers' experiences of performance-based financing program as a nation-wide adopted policy in Cameroon: A principal-agent perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Nkangu M, Little J, Deonandan R

OBJECTIVES: The study applies the principal-agent approach to explore providers' experiences before and after the introduction of performance-based financing (PBF) in Cameroon, challenges and facilitators in the implementation process, and mechanisms in place to ensure sustainability. METHODS: The study was an in-depth qualitative study whose goal was to provide multiple descriptions of experiences and insights from a principal-agent analysis perspective. Purposive sampling was used to identify the key characteristics of the participants relevant to the study. A snowballing technique was used to further identify eligible participants. Only healthcare providers who were exposed to the previous system and could reflect on and provide meaningful data that captured the everyday experiences before and after the implementation of PBF were included. Data were collected from three districts in the Southwest region of Cameroon from May 2021 to August 2021. Data were transcribed and analyzed using MaxQDA. RESULTS: A total of 17 interviews and 3 focus group discussions (24 participants) were conducted with healthcare providers and key stakeholders involved in PBF. The respondents described a range of changes that they had experienced since the introduction of PBF. Each of these changes was categorized as either positive or negative. Positive changes were framed into 14 dominant categories: motivation, negotiations, innovation, resource allocation, autonomy, decentralization, transparency, improved quality of care, separation of function, performance, equity considerations, opportunity to recruit, participation in decision-making, and improved access to and utilization of maternal health services. The main challenges (negative experiences) reported were framed into nine categories: management of change, retention issues, conflict of interest, poor understanding of the PBF concept, resistance to change, verification challenges, delays in payment of PBF incentives, data entry and documentation, and challenges in meeting the equity considerations of the poor and vulnerable. Despite the challenges, providers preferred the decentralized approach to the centralized system. CONCLUSION: PBF is a national strategy for achieving universal health coverage in Cameroon, and the experiences of providers provide a vital guide to refine national policy. The introduction of PBF has provided positive changes to providers' quality of care when compared to the previous system. Addressing the delays in PBF payments will help to overcome the challenges to implementation and provide opportunities for health facilities to be more efficient and improve their performance. Despite the limitations of delay in payment, PBF helps to align the incentives of the health workers (agent) with those of the Ministry of Health (principal).

265. In between the lines of the narrative map: Phenomenological analysis of war rape victims in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Wondie Y, Zeleke WA, Melesse M.

266. Internet addiction and its relationship with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, anxiety and stress among university students in Malaysia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Zakaria H, Hussain I, Zulkifli NS

267. Recreational and sexualised drug use among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) in Ireland-Findings from the European MSM internet survey (EMIS) 2017.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Daly FP, O'Donnell K, Davoren MP

BACKGROUND: Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) report a higher prevalence of drug use in comparison to the general male population. However, in Ireland, there is a paucity of literature regarding the prevalence of drug use and its determinants among gbMSM. AIMS/OBJECTIVES: To quantify the prevalence of (i) recreational drug use (RDU) and (ii) sexualised drug use (SDU) among gbMSM in Ireland, and to identify the factors associated with these drug use practices. METHODS: The European MSM Internet Survey (EMIS) 2017 was an online, anonymous, internationally-promoted questionnaire. Two binary outcomes were included in our analyses: (1) RDU and (2) SDU in the previous year. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression explored factors associated with these outcomes, and all independent covariates were adjusted for one another. RESULTS: Among gbMSM without HIV (n = 1,898), 40.9% and 13.1% engaged in RDU and SDU in the previous year, respectively. Among diagnosed-positive gbMSM (n = 141), the past-year respective prevalence estimates were 51.8% and 26.2%. Increased odds of RDU were observed among gbMSM who were younger (vs. 40+ years) (18-24 years; AOR 2.96, 95% CI 2.05-4.28, 25-39 years; AOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.27-2.16), lived in Dublin (vs. elsewhere) (AOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.17-1.83), and engaged in condomless anal intercourse (CAI) in the previous year (vs. none) (1-2 partners; AOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.34-2.38, 6+ partners; AOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.18-2.71). Greater odds of SDU were identified among those who lived in Dublin (vs. elsewhere) (AOR 1.50, 95% CI 1.07-2.10), and engaged in CAI (vs. none) (1-2 partners; AOR 3.16, 95% CI 2.05-4.88, 3-5 partners; AOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.47-4.26, and 6+ partners; AOR 3.79, 95% CI 2.23-6.43). CONCLUSION: GbMSM report a high prevalence of drug use in Ireland. Targeted interventions, including harm reduction campaigns, may be needed to support healthier drug use choices among this community.

268. Transposable element insertions in 1000 Swedish individuals.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Bilgrav Saether K, Nilsson D, Thonberg H

269. Immediate and short-term effects of eccentric muscle contractions on structural, morphological, mechanical, functional and physiological properties of peripheral nerves: A protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Lungu D, Neto T, Andrade RJ

BACKGROUND: It is widely acknowledged that eccentric muscle contractions may cause skeletal muscle damage. However, there is little knowledge about the impact of eccentric contractions on non-muscular structures. Animal and human studies revealed that eccentric contractions can also induce immediate and short-term nerve dysfunction. The purpose of this review is to examine whether eccentric muscle contractions induce immediate and short-term effects on structural, morphological, mechanical, functional and physiological properties of peripheral nerves, from both animal and human studies. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A systematic review of randomised (RCTs) and non-randomised controlled trials will be conducted. Four electronic databases (i.e., Medline/Pubmed, Science Direct, PEDro and Cochrane) will be searched using predefined search terms to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies have to comprise any type of eccentric contraction of upper or lower limb muscles. Primary outcomes will include measures related to structure, morphology, mechanical, functional and physiological properties of peripheral nerves. Two independent reviewers will assess eligibility, evaluate risk of bias, and extract relevant data. In human studies, the risk of bias will be assessed by the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0 tool) for RCTs and by risk of bias in non-randomised studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) for non-randomised controlled trials; while for animal studies, the risk of bias will be assessed using the SYRCLE's RoB tool. A narrative synthesis will be conducted for all included studies. Also, if appropriate, a meta-analysis will be performed, where the effect size of each outcome will be determined by the standardized mean difference as well as the 95% confidence intervals. I2 statistics will be used to assess heterogeneity. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: For this study, no ethical approval is required. Findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: The protocol has been registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Registration number: CRD42021285767.

270. Characterization of aminoglycoside resistance genes in multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae collected from tertiary hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Ahmed OB, Asghar AH, Bamaga M

271. Epidemiological clinical profile and closure of chronic plantar ulcers in patients with leprosy sequelae undergoing orthopedic surgery in a municipality in western Amazon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

João FM, Peninni SN, Vasconcelos ZS

272. Psychosocial impact at the time of a rare disease diagnosis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Benito-Lozano J, Arias-Merino G, Gómez-Martínez M

273. Channeling and dampening: The role of political ties in information disclosure and concealment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Zheng W, Ni N, Crilly D.

274. Estimating age of mule deer in the field: Can we move beyond broad age categories?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Hinton MS, McMillan BR, Hersey KR

275. Implicit bias training can remove bias from subliminal stimuli, restoring choice divergence: A proof-of-concept study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Koenig-Robert R, El Omar H, Pearson J.

276. An intercomparison of models predicting growth of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba): The importance of recognizing model specificity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Bahlburg D, Thorpe SE, Meyer B

277. Prevalence and predictors of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy among healthcare workers in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Kigongo E, Kabunga A, Tumwesigye R

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 vaccination is regarded as an effective intervention for controlling the pandemic. However, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is hampering efforts geared towards reducing the burden of the pandemic. Therefore, examining COVID-19 hesitancy and its predictors among healthcare workers is essential to improving COVID-19 uptake. In sub-Saharan Africa, the pooled proportion of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is yet to be known. PURPOSE: The present study was to estimate the pooled proportion of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its predictors among healthcare workers in Sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: A systematic search of articles was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct, African Journal Online, and Google Scholar. Data was extracted with the help of Excel. Data analysis was conducted using STATA 17. Heterogeneity in the studies was assessed using Cochrane Q and 12 tests. A random effects model was used to examine the pooled estimates to determine if heterogeneity was exhibited. RESULTS: A total of 15 studies involving 7498 participants were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy among healthcare workers was 46%, 95% CI (0.38-0.54). The predictors of COVID-19 hesitancy were negative beliefs towards vaccine 14.0% (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.06), perceived low risk of COVID-19 infection 24.0% (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.28), and vaccine side effects 25.0% (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.24). CONCLUSION: The data revealed generally high hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccine among health workers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Future COVID-19 adoption and uptake should be improved by national and individual level efforts. In Sub-Saharan Africa, it is crucial to address the myths and obstacles preventing healthcare professionals from accepting the COVID-19 vaccination as soon as feasible since their willingness to get the vaccine serves as an important example for the broader public.

278. Assessing landscape aesthetic values: Do clouds in photographs influence people's preferences?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Tasser E, Lavdas AA, Schirpke U.

Photo-based surveys are widely applied to elicit landscape preferences and to assess cultural ecosystem services. Variations in weather and light conditions can potentially alter people's preferences, as sunny landscapes are more positively perceived than those under inclement weather conditions. To assure comparability across pictures, studies usually include photographs taken at sunny days (i.e., blue sky). However, the influence of clouds in sunny landscapes on people's preferences has been rarely considered, although color contrasts between clouds and the blue sky may attract people's attention. This study therefore aimed to assess the effects of clouds in landscape photographs on people's preferences by (1) examining differences in preference between pairs of landscape photographs (i.e., with clouds and without clouds), and (2) explaining variations through variables from eye-tracking simulation, photo content analysis, and Geographic Information System (GIS)-based analysis. Our results indicate no significant differences in preferences between pictures with and without clouds when the pictures with clouds contained a proportion of sky around 22% and a cloud cover of about 39%. However, a higher proportion of sky positively influenced landscape preferences, while a higher proportion of clouds, especially in combination with a lower proportion of sky, had negative effects. These findings suggest that landscape preference studies should pay attention not only to the appearance of the sky in terms of cloudiness, but they also should control the proportion of sky across different pictures to obtain comparable results. Future research should address limitations regarding the transferability of our findings to other types of landscapes and regarding potential differences in perceptions between respondents with different socio-cultural characteristics. Moreover, landscape preferences under changing weather conditions or different cloud types as well as diurnal and seasonal changes should be further explored.

279. Propofol suppresses hormones levels more obviously than sevoflurane in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma: A prospective randomized controlled clinical trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Xiong J, Wang M, Gao J

OBJECTIVE: General anesthesia can disturb the hormone levels in surgical patients. Hormone deficiency is one of the major symptoms of craniopharyngioma (CP) in pediatric patients. The aim of this prospective randomized controlled clinical study is to evaluate whether propofol and sevoflurane influence the perioperative hormone levels in these patients and to determine which anesthesia technique causes less impact on hormone levels. MATERIALS: Sixty-four ASA I and II pediatric patients with CP undergoing elective neurosurgery were randomly divided into the sevoflurane group (S group, n = 32) and the propofol group (P group, n = 32). Anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane and propofol until the end of the operation. Demographic information, operation information and hemodynamic variables were recorded. The levels of hormones were evaluated preoperatively as the baseline (T0), 1h after the beginning of the operation (T1), immediately at the end of the operation (T2) and 72 h postoperatively (T3). RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the two groups in terms of patients' demographics and intraoperative information, such as operation duration, blood loss and transfusion volumes, and fluid infusion volume (P>0.05). In both groups, compared to those at T0, the levels of TSH, FT3, TT3 and ACTH at T1, T2 and T3 were significantly lower. The levels of FSH, PRL and GH at T3 were also significantly lower (P<0.05). The FT3 and TT3 levels of both groups at T2 and T3 were significantly lower than those at T1, but the ACTH level was significantly increased (P<0.05). Compared to the levels at T2, the TSH, FT3, FT4 and ACTH levels of the two groups at T3 were significantly reduced (P<0.05). The baseline hormone levels of both groups were similar (P>0.05). At T1, the FT3, TT3, FT4, TT4 and ACTH levels in the P group were significantly lower than those in the S group (P<0.05). At T2, the TT3 and ACTH levels of the P group were significantly lower than those of the S group (P<0.05) At T3, the TT4 level in the P group was significantly lower than that of the S group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Propofol and sevoflurane could reduce the levels of hormones intraoperatively and postoperatively in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma. However, propofol reduced hormone levels more intensively, mainly intraoperatively. Postoperatively, propofol and sevoflurane had similar inhibition effects on the shift in hormone levels. Therefore, in pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma undergoing neurosurgery, sevoflurane might be the preferred anesthetic because it causes less interruption of hormone levels. However, because of their similar postoperative effects, which long-term effects of sevoflurane or propofol could produce optimal clinical situations? Thus more extensive clinical studies are needed. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trial registration. This trail was registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn, Jun Xiong) on 28/12/2021, registration number was ChiCTR2100054885.

280. Factors affecting food waste: A bibliometric review on the household behaviors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Pilone V, di Santo N, Sisto R.

281. Space-environment relationship in the identification of potential areas of expansion of Trypanosoma cruzi infection in Didelphis aurita in the Atlantic Rainforest.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Testai R, Ferreira de Siqueira M, Rocha DSB

Ecological Niche Modeling is widely used for animals, but rarely for understanding the parasite ecology. Trypanosoma cruzi is a heterogeneous and widely dispersed multi-host parasite. Didelphis aurita is a generalist species, both in terms of diet and environments. We modeled the D. aurita niche and T. cruzi infection in the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest, using the models of two common vector species (Triatoma vitticeps and Panstrongylus megistus) as biotic variables, predicting their occurrence. Records of T. cruzi infected and non-infected D. aurita were analyzed through climate and landscape approaches by the Ecoland method. Models for each triatomine species and infected and noninfected D. aurita were produced considering climate and landscape: resolution of ~1km2 selected by Pearson's correlation [-0.7≤α≤0.7]. For modeling, seven algorithms available in ModleR package were used. True Skill Statistic was used to evaluate the models' performance (≥ 0.7). T. vitticeps indicates that there is a spatial dependence with warm areas in the southeastern region while P. megistus presented a distribution with high environmental suitability concentrated in the Southeast. High values of climatic suitability, landscape and potential presence of T. vitticeps and P. megistus were considered necessary, but not sufficient for the presence of D. aurita infected by T. cruzi. Climate models showed an ecological niche with suitability variations homogeneous, and landscape models showed a distribution of habitat conditions along the biome, with a fragmented profile and heterogeneous between locations. Ecoland demonstrated that D. aurita has different degrees of impact on its role in the enzootic cycle in different locations of the Atlantic Rainforest. Associating the models with the Ecoland method allowed the recognition of areas where D. aurita are important T. cruzi reservoirs. Areas of high suitability for the presence of marsupials are a necessary, but not sufficient for D. aurita to act as a reservoir for T. cruzi.

282. Dietary diversity practice and associated factors among adolescents in Ethiopia, systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Ayele FY, Zerga AA, Gebeyehu FB

BACKGROUND: Adolescence (10-19 years) is a critical life period for growth and health. An increase in dietary diversity in the food is related to improved nutrient adequacy of the diet. However, studies conducted on dietary diversity practice among adolescents showed non-conclusive and inconsistent findings on the magnitude of the problem. Likewise, there was no meta-analysis conducted in the study area. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of good dietary diversity practice and its associated factors among adolescents in Ethiopia. METHODS: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was followed. All articles were systematically searched by Google Scholar, PubMed, Hinari, Cochrane Library, Global Health and CINAHL. Meta-analysis was conducted by using STATA 14 software. Forest plots were used to present the pooled prevalence of good dietary diversity practices. A random effect model was used to compute the pooled prevalence; while subgroup analysis was performed to identify the possible source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed by the begg's and egger's test. Moreover, the associated factor of dietary diversity practices was observed. RESULTS: This review involved 7 studies, and 3,950 participants. The pooled prevalence of good dietary diversity practice among adolescents in Ethiopia was 39.24% (95% CI: 30.82, 47.66). Mothers with formal education [AOR = 1.98, (95% CI: 1.65, 2.36)], fathers with formal education [AOR = 2.30, (95% CI: 1.81, 2.93)], Medium wealth index [AOR = 2.75, (95% CI: 1.96, 3.86)] and urban residence [AOR = 2.88, (95% CI: 1.59, 5.22)] were positively associated with good dietary diversity practice. CONCLUSIONS: The pooled prevalence of good dietary diversity practices among adolescents is low. Being urban residents, the medium wealth quintile, mothers' educational status and fathers' educational status were independent factors of good dietary diversity practice among adolescents. Therefore, focused nutritional interventions should be given to rural residents and adolescents from low economic status.

283. Discrete choice experiment versus swing-weighting: A head-to-head comparison of diabetic patient preferences for glucose-monitoring devices.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Whichello C, Smith I, Veldwijk J

284. Financial investment trust mechanism based on smart contract.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Xiong W, Wan D.

285. Validation of robust radiobiological optimization algorithms based on the mixed beam model for intensity-modulated carbon-ion therapy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Yagi M, Tsubouchi T, Hamatani N

Currently, treatment planning systems (TPSs) that can compute the intensities of intensity-modulated carbon-ion therapy (IMCT) using scanned carbon-ion beams are limited. In the present study, the computational efficacy of the newly designed IMCT algorithms was analyzed for the first time based on the mixed beam model with respect to the physical and biological doses; moreover, the validity and effectiveness of the robust radiobiological optimization were verified. A dose calculation engine was independently generated to validate a clinical dose determined in the TPS. A biological assay was performed using the HSGc-C5 cell line to validate the calculated surviving fraction (SF). Both spot control (SC) and voxel-wise worst-case scenario (WC) algorithms were employed for robust radiobiological optimization followed by their application in a Radiation Therapy Oncology Group benchmark phantom under homogeneous and heterogeneous conditions and a clinical case for range and position errors. Importantly, for the first time, both SC and WC algorithms were implemented in the integrated TPS platform that can compute the intensities of IMCT using scanned carbon-ion beams for robust radiobiological optimization. For assessing the robustness, the difference between the maximum and minimum values of a dose-volume histogram index in the examined error scenarios was considered as a robustness index. The relative biological effectiveness (RBE) determined by the independent dose calculation engine exhibited a -0.6% difference compared with the RBE defined by the TPS at the isocenter, whereas the measured and the calculated SF were similar. Regardless of the objects, compared with the conventional IMCT, the robust radiobiological optimization enhanced the sensitivity of the examined error scenarios by up to 19% for the robustness index. The computational efficacy of the novel IMCT algorithms was verified according to the mixed beam model with respect to the physical and biological doses. The robust radiobiological optimizations lowered the impact of range and position uncertainties considerably in the examined scenarios. The robustness of the WC algorithm was more enhanced compared with that of the SC algorithm. Nevertheless, the SC algorithm can be used as an alternative to the WC IMCT algorithm with respect to the computational cost.

286. The criterion for dividing the surrounding rock EDZs of underground caverns based on the energy dissipation degree.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Wang X, Zhang J, Qian L

An energy calculation parameter named the energy dissipation degree (RUd) is introduced based on the analysis of the energy dissipation mechanism and energy evolution characteristics during conventional triaxial tests of the granite of Shuangjiangkou. The deviatoric stress‒strain curve of rock can be divided into five stages using four stress thresholds (crack closure stress σcc, crack initiation stress σci, damage stress σcd and peak stress σp), which also correspond to the four RUd thresholds (RUdc, RUdi, RUdd and RUdp) on the energy dissipation degree-strain curve. A given stress threshold increases with increasing confining pressure; however, a given RUd threshold is basically stable under different confining pressures. Then, a new criterion for dividing the excavation damaged zones (EDZs) in the rock surrounding underground caverns based on the monotonically increasing characteristics of the energy dissipation degree‒axial strain relationship curve is proposed, and it allows for the classification of the surrounding rock into five types of zones through quantitative analysis of the RUd thresholds. Based on the criterion for dividing the EDZs of the surrounding rock mass of the underground cavern, the EDZs of the surrounding rocks of the underground cavern group of the Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station are analyzed. The distribution characteristics of the EDZs of the rock surrounding underground caverns obtained by numerical simulation calculations based on RUd are basically the same as those obtained by in situ elastic wave tests. However, the RUd-based method for classifying the EDZs of the surrounding rock has the obvious advantage of being able to probe the boundaries of the undamaged zone (UDZ) of the surrounding rock more explicitly, while the method based on wave velocity testing is not sufficiently explicit. The damage zoning of the surrounding rock based on RUd can provide support design advice for the excavation of the surrounding rock, such as the support method, the length of the free section and anchor section of the prestressing anchor, etc.

287. Sensorimotor synchronization to music reduces pain.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 28

Werner LM, Skouras S, Bechtold L

288. Deregulation of exosomal miRNAs in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Hussain MZ, Haris MS, Rizwan M

Exosomes are small-diameter endosomal vesicles secreted in all biological fluids and play biological/pathological roles in the cell. These pathological roles are played by exosome's cargo molecules through inter-cellular communication. Exosomal cargo molecules contain proteins and miRNAs. miRNAs are small non-coding RNA fragments involved in the reduction of final protein output by destabilizing or suppressing the translation of target messenger RNA (mRNA). This deregulation of the protein due to miRNAs ultimately accelerates the process of disease pathogenesis. The role of exosomal miRNAs has been investigated in different diseases and the limited number of studies have been published concerning exosomal miRNAs and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The current study is designed to investigate the role of exosomal miRNAs (miRNA-103a-3p, miRNA-10a-5p, miRNA-204-3p, miRNA-330-3p, and miRNA-19b) in the pathogenesis of RA. Furthermore, the role of selected exosomal miRNAs in RA pathogenesis was further explored by estimating oxidative stress and histone deacetylation in RA patients. In the current study, 306 RA patients and equal numbers of age/gender-matched controls were used. The level of expression of above-mentioned exosomal miRNAs was assessed by performing qRT PCR. Deacetylation and oxidative stress assays were performed to estimate the 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG level) and histone deacetylation levels using the Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis indicated a significantly downregulated expression of miRNA-103a-3p (p<0.0001), miR-10a-5p (p<0.0001), miR-204-3p (p<0.0001), miR-330-3p (p<0.0001) and miR-19b (p<0.0001) in RA patients compared to controls. Significantly increased levels of 8-OHdG (p<0.0001) and histone deacetylation (p<0.0001) were observed among RA patients compared to controls. Spearman correlation showed a negative correlation between the deregulated exosomal miRNAs and increased oxidative stress and histone deacetylation in RA patients. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis showed a good diagnostic specificity/sensitivity of the above-mentioned exosomal miRNAs among RA patients. These analyses indicated the potential role of deregulated exosomal miRNAs in the initiation of RA by targeting oxidative stress and histone deacetylation processes.

289. They are not all the same: Determinants of attendance across different sectors in a stadium.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Barajas A, Gasparetto T.

290. Utilization of diabetes self-management program among breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors: Using 2006-2019 Texas Medicare data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lee WC, Digbeu BDE, Serag H

291. What would happen if twitter sent consequential messages to only a strategically important subset of users? A quantification of the Targeted Messaging Effect (TME).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Epstein R, Tyagi C, Wang H.

292. Patellar malalignment correlates with increased pain and increased synovial stress hormone levels-A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Brenneis M, Junker M, Sohn R

PURPOSE: Risk factors for the development of pain in the context of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) remain unclear. Radiological findings often do not correlate with clinical findings, so other pathomechanisms in the development and perception of pain must play a role. The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation of increased sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity (measured by subjective and objective chronic stress parameters) with KOA severity, patellofemoral malalignment, and pain. METHODS: 47 patients with KOA were assessed. Radiological measurements of tibiofemoral and patellofemoral parameters (Kellgren-Lawrence-score, patellar tilt (PT), Caton-Deschamps-Index and Hepp´s classification) were performed and correlated with knee-specific questionnaires (WOMAC®, KSS©) and chronic stress questionnaires (PSQ-20). Additionally, parameters associated with chronic stress were quantified in synovial fluid and serum samples from patients. RESULTS: PT correlated significantly with Caton-Deschamps-Index (r = 0.394,p = 0.006) and with medial patellofemoral joint space (r = 0.516,p<0.001). In addition, asymmetric trochlear groove (Hepp's classification > II) was associated with significantly higher PT values (p = 0.014). A negative correlation between PT and KSS©-symptoms subgroup was found (r = -0.340,p = 0.024). Patients with PT<5° had significantly higher scores in the Knee Society Score©-symptoms subgroup (p = 0.038). A positive and significant correlation between synovial aldosterone levels and PT was observed (r = 0.548,p = 0.042). CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicate that patellar malalignment might correlate with increased pain. The previous specification of standard PT values must be reconsidered as even low PT values seem to play a role in the occurrence of patellofemoral osteoarthritis symptoms. Lower PT values might lead to aggravated symptoms in patients with KOA due to a narrow medial patellofemoral joint space. In addition, PT might induce the release of synovial stress biomarkers and thus contribute to the progression of KOA.

293. Establishing a surveillance system on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of key populations (KPs) at risk of compromised outcome of SRHR- A protocol for a mixed-method study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Reza MM, Sarwar G, Irfan SD

BACKGROUND: Key populations (KPs) who are at risk of compromised situation of sexual and reproductive health and rights in Bangladesh constitute including males having sex with males, male sex workers, transgender women (locally known as hijra) and female sex workers. Globally, these key populations experience various sexual and reproductive health and rights burdens and unmet needs for ailments such as sexually transmitted infections including Neisseria Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia Trachomatis and human papillomavirus. Most key population focused interventions around the world, including Bangladesh, primarily address human immune deficiency virus and sexually transmitted infections-related concerns and provide syndromic management of sexually transmitted infections, other sexual and reproductive health and rights issues are remained overlooked that creates a lack of information in the related areas. There is currently no systematic research in Bangladesh that can produce representative data on sexual and reproductive health and rights among key populations, investigates their sexual and reproductive health and rights needs, how their needs evolve, and investigate underlying factors of sexual and reproductive health and rights issues that is crucial for informing more sexual and reproductive health and rights-friendly interventions for key populations. Keeping all these issues in mind, we are proposing to establish a sexual and reproductive health and rights surveillance system for key populations in Bangladesh. METHOD: The sexual and reproductive health and rights surveillance system will be established in Dhaka for males having sex with males, male sex workers and transgender women, and the other in Jashore for female sex workers. The duration will be for 3 years and data will be collected twice, in year one and year two adopting a mixed method repeated cross-sectional design. All key populations 15 years and above will be sampled. Behavioural data will be collected adopting a face-to-face technique and then biological samples will be collected. Those who will be found positive for human papillomavirus, will be referred to a government hospital for treatment. Free treatment will be provided to those who will be found positive for other sexually transmitted infections. In total, 2,240 key populations will be sampled. Written assent/consent will be taken from everyone. Data will be entered by Epi-Info and analysed by Stata. Report will be produced in every year. DISCUSSION: This surveillance system will be the first of its kind to systematically assess the situation of sexual and reproductive health and rights among selected key populations in Bangladesh. It is expected that this study will provide insights needed for improving the existing sexual and reproductive health and rights intervention modalities for these vulnerable and marginalized key populations.

294. A highly accurate method for forecasting the compressor geometric variable system based on the data-driven method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Xia C, Zhan Y, Tan Y

295. Impact of changes in chatbot's facial expressions on user attention and reaction time.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bortko K, Fornalczyk K, Jankowski J

296. Qualitative research concerning physiotherapy approaches to encourage physical activity in older adults with dementia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yokogawa M, Taniguchi Y, Yoneda Y.

297. Prediction of gastrointestinal functional state based on myoelectric recordings utilizing a deep neural network architecture.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Elkhadrawi M, Akcakaya M, Fulton S

298. Long-term statin therapy is associated with severe coronary artery calcification.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ngamdu KS, Ghosalkar DS, Chung HE

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis and consequent risk of cardiovascular events or mortality can be accurately assessed by quantifying coronary artery calcium score (CACS) derived from computed tomography. HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors (statins) are the primary pharmacotherapy used to reduce cardiovascular events, yet there is growing data that support statin use may increase coronary calcification. We set out to determine the likelihood of severe CACS in the context of chronic statin therapy. METHODS: We established a retrospective, case-control study of 1,181 U.S. veterans without coronary artery disease (CAD) from a single site, the Providence VA Medical Center. Duration of statin therapy for primary prevention was divided into 5-year categorical increments. The primary outcome was CACS derived from low-dose lung cancer screening computed tomography (LCSCT), stratified by CACs severity (none = 0; mild = 1-99; moderate = 100-399; and severe ≥400 AU). Statin duration of zero served as the referent control. Ordinal logistic regression analysis determined the association between duration of statin use and CACS categories. Proportional odds assumption was tested using likelihood ratio test. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk score, body mass index, and CKD (glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2) were included in the adjustment models. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 64.7±7.2 years, and 706 (60%) patients were prescribed a statin at baseline. Duration of statin therapy was associated with greater odds of having increased CACS (>0-5 years, OR: 1.71 [CI: 1.34-2.18], p<0.001; >5-10 years, OR: 2.80 [CI: 2.01-3.90], p<0.001; >10 years, OR: 5.30 [CI: 3.23-8.70], p<0.001), and the relationship between statin duration and CACS remained significant after multivariate adjustment (>0-5 years, OR: 1.49 [CI: 1.16-1.92], p = 0.002; >5-10 years, OR: 2.38 [CI: 1.7-3.35], p<0.001; >10 years, OR: 4.48 [CI: 2.7-7.43], p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Long-term use of statins is associated with increased likelihood of severe CACS in patients with significant smoking history. The use of CACS to interpret cardiovascular event risk may require adjustment in the context of chronic statin therapy.

299. Ultrastructure of the nebenkern during spermatogenesis in the praying mantid Hierodula membranacea.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Köckert M, Okafornta CW, Hill C

300. Adapted tissue assay for the assessment of ileal granulocyte degranulation following in ovo inoculation with select bacteria or coccidial challenge in chickens.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Duff AF, Chasser KM, McGovern KE

A previously described heterophil degranulation assay was adapted for use with ileal mucosal tissue via quantification of β-D-glucuronidase and assay end product 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU). Three initial experiments evaluated the effect of in ovo inoculations of Citrobacter freundii (CF) or mixed lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on ileal granulocyte degranulation. Inoculations were administered on embryonic d18, body weights (BW) were recorded on day of hatch (DOH) and d10 to calculate body weight gain (BWG), and ileal mucosal scrapings were collected on DOH or d10 for the 4-MU assay. In all experiments, treatments were statistically analyzed relative to control groups. Treatments minimally affected BWG in all in ovo experiments (p > 0.05) relative to respective control groups. Similarly, ileal degranulation in in ovo treatments did not statistically differ (p > 0.05). Based on BWG, in ovo treatments may have induced low-level inflammation unable to elicit detectable changes via the 4-MU assay. Four subsequent experiments were conducted to evaluate effects of Eimeria maxima (EM) on ileal degranulation. Treatments included non-inoculated controls and low, medium, or high EM infection. Across all four experiments, final BW or BWG over the inoculation period were suppressed (p < 0.05) in EM groups relative to respective controls with the exception of EM-low (p = 0.094) and EM-medium (p = 0.096) in one trial. Ileal mucosal scrapings for the 4-MU assay were collected on day of peak lesions. Resulting values were reduced (p < 0.05) for EM treated birds in three experiments with the exception of EM-medium (p = 0.247). No differences were observed in one experiment (p = 0.351), which may have been attributed to a variation in strain of infecting Eimeria. Although refinement for low level inflammation is warranted, results indicate successful adaptation of the 4-MU assay for use with intestinal tissue during significant gastrointestinal inflammation.

301. Intersections of informal work status, gender and tuberculosis diagnosis: Insights from a qualitative study from an Indian setting.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

George S, Syamala TS, Paranjpe A

BACKGROUND: There is evidence that more than one third of tuberculosis (TB) cases in India go undiagnosed each year and it is more pronounced among female patients. While there are studies available on the socioeconomic, cultural and gender-related dimensions of TB diagnosis delays among female patients in India, intersections of gender, informal work and diagnosis delays are not sufficiently studied. The present study aims to fill this gap by examining the TB diagnosis delay that are linked to the contingencies of working in informal arrangements for women from lower socio economic background. METHODS: The study draws on 80 qualitative in-depth interviews conducted among female patients from lower socio-economic background, who were working or recently stopped working in informal arrangements and undergoing Directly Observed Therapy, Short-course (DOTS) treatment in Bengaluru (India) city and 60 willing significant others of the patients. The participants were identified through a scoping survey that covered 188 female patients from 18 DOTS centres in the city. FINDINGS: Other than the already known reasons for the delay in TB diagnosis for women such as normalisation of symptoms, stigma and the gender-related discrimination leading to low prioritisation of women's illness, the present study identifies reasons related to work informality. These are normalisation of symptoms as workplace health problems; work related concerns that restricted formal help seeking; non TB specific narratives of symptoms, often incorrectly assumed to be work related health issues or comorbidities and thus confounding the early accurate diagnosis by the medical personnel and shifting between formal and informal systems of help-seeking. Further, the study found that mere knowledge of TB symptoms did not always translate to early diagnosis for patients from the lower socioeconomic groups working in informal arrangements due to the fear of losing work and wages owing to hospital visits. CONCLUSIONS: The workplace focus, especially the informal sector where a huge majority of India's workforce is employed, is notably absent in the TB elimination programme. The study indicates the need to adopt a comprehensive approach in the ongoing TB elimination programme in India in which family, living environment and workplace should be integral parts.

302. JAK-inhibitors and risk on serious viral infection, venous thromboembolism and cardiac events in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A protocol for a prevalent new-user cohort study using the Danish nationwide DANBIO register.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Faquetti ML, Vallejo-Yagüe E, Cordtz R

303. Optimal timing and cutoff range of lung ultrasound in predicting surfactant administration in neonates: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Luo K, Wang H, Huang F

304. What are the factors associated with catastrophic health expenditure in Colombia? A multi-level analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ramirez-Agudelo JL, Pinilla-Roncancio M.

INTRODUCTION: Target 3.8 of the Sustainable Development Goals calls for the guaranteeing of universal health service coverage without generating financial risks for households and individuals. In Colombia, there is no up-to-date information on the proportion of households that suffer catastrophic health expenditure (CHE), nor about how these expenses are associated with the place of residence. To contribute to an understanding of these issues, this study analyses the differences in the levels of CHE among Colombian households, and their association with the province and area (urban or rural) of residence. METHODS: This is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study using the 2016-2017 National Household Budget Survey, the household and population Census 2018, and the Register of Health Providers 2017. We used the definition of CHE proposed by the World Health Organization, with a threshold of 20%. We estimated the percentage of households facing CHE, and its intensity, and estimated a multi-level logistic regression model, using as the dependent variable the question of whether a household experienced CHE, and the province as a second level, where explanatory variables related to the province were included. RESULTS: We found differences in CHE levels according to the province of residence. At the national level, 1.77% of households experienced CHE, and households in the provinces of Boyacá (5.04%), Nariño (4.04%), Cauca (3.82%), and Chocó (3.78%) faced the highest CHE. For most households with CHE in these provinces, spending on medicines and medical consultations represented close to 50% of their out-of-pocket spending. The multi-level logistic regression model indicated that there are significant variations in CHE attributed to the provinces under study, where the contextual variables of hospital-bed density (AOR = 0.91; 95% CI 0.86-0.96) and incidence of multi-dimensional poverty (AOR = 1.13; 95% CI 1.01-1.30) were factors associated with CHE. For an urban household, 6.58% of the CHE variation is attributed to the province in question, while for a rural household the corresponding variation is 1.56%. CONCLUSIONS: The geographical location of the household is a key factor when studying CHE in Colombia, where rural households present higher levels of CHE, mainly in the delivery of medicines and medical consultations. The findings reveal the need to analyse financial protection at the local level and establish policies to protect households, especially poor households, from CHE.

305. RANTES and developmental defects of enamel in children: A Brazilian prenatal cohort (BRISA).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Costa EM, Pinho JRO, Saraiva MDCP

306. Ambition or comparison? Socioeconomic status and wellbeing differences between local and migrant workers.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Li D, Yang X, Zou G.

307. Family-authored ICU diaries to reduce fear in patients experiencing a cardiac arrest (FAID fear): A pilot randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Cornelius T, Mendieta M, Cumella RM

Survivors of cardiac arrest (CA) and their family members often experience significant fear-based distress (cardiac fear; i.e., fear about the CA survivor's heart). Fear-based distress after CA is associated with higher rates of cardiac event recurrence and mortality in CA survivors. As posited in Dyadic Disruption Theory (DDT), cardiac fear in family members may contribute to the development of distress in CA survivors via socially-based mechanisms. Thus, interventions to reduce family distress may improve CA survivors' outcomes. ICU diaries are easy to implement and scalable and show promise for reducing distress after CA but are primarily targeted towards survivors. The primary aim of the Family-Authored ICU Diaries to reduce Fear in Patients Experiencing a CA (FAID Fear) pilot randomized controlled trial was to test feasibility of an ICU diary intervention targeted towards family member distress alone. Family members of patients hospitalized after CA (N = 16) were randomized 2:1 to receive the FAID Fear intervention or usual care. Intervention participants were provided brief instructions and were asked to write in the diary twice per week until the end of hospital care. Assessments occurred at baseline enrollment, end of hospital care, and 30 days later. Participants' mean age was 50.73 years (SD = 13.41; 80% cis-gender female; 60% White). Recruitment (16/25 referred; 64.0%), retention (14/16 enrolled; 87.5%), and intervention adherence (7/10 completed; 70%) were promising. Most agreed that the ICU diary intervention was appropriate (7/10 completed; 70.0%), feasible (9/10 completed; 90.0%]), and acceptable (8/10 completed; 80.0%). Fear was nonsignificantly lower in intervention participants (v. control) at end of hospital care and 30 days later. FAID Fear represents a first step in building theory-based dyadic interventions that can be implemented to support family members of CA survivors in the ICU, with potential to improve outcomes in CA survivors.

308. Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome in African populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bowo-Ngandji A, Kenmoe S, Ebogo-Belobo JT

BACKGROUND: The metabolic syndrome (MS) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Several studies have found MS to be prevalent in various African regions. However, no specific estimates of MS prevalence in African populations exist. The aim of this study was to estimate the overall prevalence of MS in the African populations. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Africa Index Medicus, and African Journal Online Scopus to find studies published up to the 15th of August 2022. Pooled prevalence was calculated based on six diagnostic methods. The pooled prevalence of MS was estimated using a random-effects model. Our risk of bias analysis was based on the Hoy et al. tool. A Heterogeneity (I2) assessment was performed, as well as an Egger test for publication bias. PROSPERO number CRD42021275176 was assigned to this study. RESULTS: In total, 297 studies corresponding to 345 prevalence data from 29 African countries and involving 156 464 participants were included. The overall prevalence of MS in Africa was 32.4% (95% CI: 30.2-34.7) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 98.9%; P<0.001). We obtained prevalence rates of 44.8% (95% CI: 24.8-65.7), 39.7% (95% CI: 31.7-48.1), 33.1% (95% CI: 28.5-37.8), 31.6% (95% CI: 27.8-35.6) and 29.3% (95% CI: 25.7-33) using the WHO, revised NCEP-ATP III, JIS, NCEP/ATP III and IDF definition criteria, respectively. The prevalence of MS was significantly higher in adults >18 years with 33.1% (95%CI: 30.8-35.5) compared to children <18 years with 13.3% (95%CI: 7.3-20.6) (P<0.001). MS prevalence was significantly higher in females with 36.9% (95%CI: 33.2-40.7) compared to males with 26.7% (95%CI: 23.1-30.5) (P<0.001). The prevalence of MS was highest among Type 2 diabetes patients with 66.9% (95%CI: 60.3-73.1), followed by patients with coronary artery disease with 55.2% (95%CI: 50.8-59.6) and cardiovascular diseases with 48.3% (95%CI: 33.5-63.3) (P<0.001). With 33.6% (95% CI: 28.3-39.1), the southern African region was the most affected, followed by upper-middle income economies with 35% (95% CI: 29.5-40.6). CONCLUSION: This study, regardless of the definition used, reveals a high prevalence of MS in Africa, confirming the ongoing epidemiological transition in African countries. Early prevention and treatment strategies are urgently needed to reverse this trend.

309. CT radiomics for differentiating fat poor angiomyolipoma from clear cell renal cell carcinoma: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Dehghani Firouzabadi F, Gopal N, Hasani A

PURPOSE: Differentiation of fat-poor angiomyolipoma (fp-AMLs) from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is often not possible from just visual interpretation of conventional cross-sectional imaging, typically requiring biopsy or surgery for diagnostic confirmation. However, radiomics has the potential to characterize renal masses without the need for invasive procedures. Here, we conducted a systematic review on the accuracy of CT radiomics in distinguishing fp-AMLs from RCCs. METHODS: We conducted a search using PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science for studies published from January 2011-2022 that utilized CT radiomics to discriminate between fp-AMLs and RCCs. A random-effects model was applied for the meta-analysis according to the heterogeneity level. Furthermore, subgroup analyses (group 1: RCCs vs. fp-AML, and group 2: ccRCC vs. fp-AML), and quality assessment were also conducted to explore the possible effect of interstudy differences. To evaluate CT radiomics performance, the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were assessed. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022311034). RESULTS: Our literature search identified 10 studies with 1456 lesions in 1437 patients. Pooled sensitivity was 0.779 [95% CI: 0.562-0.907] and 0.817 [95% CI: 0.663-0.910] for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Pooled specificity was 0.933 [95% CI: 0.814-0.978]and 0.926 [95% CI: 0.854-0.964] for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Also, our findings showed higher sensitivity and specificity of 0.858 [95% CI: 0.742-0.927] and 0.886 [95% CI: 0.819-0.930] for detecting ccRCC from fp-AML in the unenhanced phase of CT scan as compared to the corticomedullary and nephrogenic phases of CT scan. CONCLUSION: This study suggested that radiomic features derived from CT has high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating RCCs vs. fp-AML, particularly in detecting ccRCCs vs. fp-AML. Also, an unenhanced CT scan showed the highest specificity and sensitivity as compared to contrast CT scan phases. Differentiating between fp-AML and RCC often is not possible without biopsy or surgery; radiomics has the potential to obviate these invasive procedures due to its high diagnostic accuracy.

310. Research on oil boom performance based on Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Liu J, Jiao P, Xu Y.

311. Prescription of oral antidiabetics in Mexico. A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Fierro I, Gallardo-Mora O, Alba-Leonel A

312. New failure mechanism for evaluating ultimate inclined load adjacent to slope.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Fang H, Wang N, Xu Y.

313. Evaluation of the coordinated development between Chinese cultural industry and scientific & technological innovation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yu Z, Yu J.

314. The challenges of managing patients with cancer in the workplace: Needs, opportunities and perspectives of occupational physicians.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Rondinone BM, Fontana L, Buresti G

Cancer is a global major public health problem since it is a leading cause of death, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020 worldwide and the most recent epidemiological data suggested that its global impact is growing significantly. In this context, cancer survivors have to live for a long time often in a condition of disability due to the long-term consequences, both physical and psychological. These difficulties can seriously impair their working ability, limiting the employability. In this context, the occupational physician plays a key role in the implementation and enforcement of measures to support the workers affected by cancer, to address issues such as the information on health promotion, the analysis of work capacity and the management of disability at work and also promoting a timely and effective return to work and preserving their employability. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gather useful information to support the occupational physicians in the management of workers affected by cancer, through a survey on 157 Italian occupational physicians. Based on the interviewees' opinions, the most useful occupational safety and health professionals in terms of job retention and preservation of workers affected by cancer are the employers and the occupational physicians themselves, whose role is crucial in identifying and applying the most effective reasonable accommodations that should be provided to the workers affected by cancer. The provision of these accommodations take place on the occasion of mandatory health surveillance medical examination to which the worker affected by cancer is subjected when he returns to work. Results on training and information needs showed that the management of the workers affected by cancer is essentially centered on an appropriate fitness for work judgment and on the correct performance of health surveillance. However, an effective and successful management model should be based on a multidisciplinary and integrated approach that, from the earliest stages of the disease, involves the occupational physicians and employers.

315. Rethinking access to care: A spatial-economic analysis of the potential impact of pharmacy closures in the United States.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Adepoju OE, Kiaghadi A, Shokouhi Niaki D

316. The application of an isotropic crushable foam model to predict the femoral fracture risk.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Soltanihafshejani N, Peroni F, Toniutti S

317. Simulation and evaluation of increased imaging service capacity at the MRI department using reduced coil-setting times.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Sun YC, Wu HM, Guo WY

The wait times for patients from their appointments to receiving magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are usually long. To reduce this wait time, the present study proposed that service time wastage could be reduced by adjusting MRI examination scheduling by prioritizing patients who require examinations involving the same type of coil. This approach can reduce patient wait times and thereby maximize MRI departments' service times. To simulate an MRI department's action workflow, 2,447 MRI examination logs containing the deidentified information of patients and radiation technologists from the MRI department of a medical center were used, and a hybrid simulation model that combined discrete-event and agent-based simulations was developed. The experiment was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, the service time was increased by adjusting the examination schedule and thereby reducing the number of coil changes. In the second stage, the maximum number of additional patients that could be examined daily was determined. The average number of coil changes per day for the four MRI scanners of the aforementioned medical center was reduced by approximately 27. Thus, the MRI department gained 97.17 min/d, which enabled them to examine three additional patients per month. Consequently, the net monthly income of the hospital increased from US$17,067 to US$30,196, and the patient wait times for MRI examinations requiring the use of flexible torso and head, shoulder, 8-inch head, and torso MRI coils were shortened by 6 d and 23 h, 2 d and 15 h, 2 d and 9 h, and 16 h, respectively. Adjusting MRI examination scheduling by prioritizing patients that require the use of the same coil could reduce the coil-setting time, increase the daily number of patients who are examined, increase the net income of the MRI department, and shorten patient wait times for MRI examinations. Minimizing the operating times of specific examinations to maximize the number of services provided per day does not require additional personnel or resources. The results of the experimental simulations can be used as a reference by radiology department managers designing scheduling rules for examination appointments.

318. Perception, attitudes, and knowledge on infestation and management of bed bugs in major cities of Indonesia: A cross-sectional online survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Meisyara D, Guswenrivo I, Veera Singham G.

319. Chemical differences in cover crop residue quality are maintained through litter decay.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Thapa R, Cabrera M, Schomberg HH

320. Protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial of a telehealth-delivered counseling intervention to reduce suicidality and improve HIV care engagement in Tanzania.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Knettel BA, Knippler ET, Amiri I

OBJECTIVE: Suicidal ideation is strikingly common among people living with HIV (PLWH) worldwide, leading to higher burden of disease, poor HIV care engagement, and loss of life. In low- and middle-income countries such as Tanzania, mental health resources are scarce, requiring innovative strategies for treatment. We describe the protocol for a clinical trial of a three-session telehealth counseling intervention to reduce suicidality and improve HIV care engagement in Tanzania. METHODS: In a pilot randomized controlled trial, we will assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of a new telehealth intervention, termed "IDEAS for Hope". A total of 60 PLWH will be enrolled from two HIV clinics in the Kilimanjaro region and connected to telehealth counsellors based at a large regional hospital. Participants will be ≥18 years old and speak either Kiswahili or English. Patient screening will occur during routine HIV clinical care to identify PLWH experiencing suicidal ideation. Baseline surveys will be administered upon enrollment and participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive either IDEAS for Hope or the comparison condition, a brief safety planning session. All participants will receive an additional referral for psychiatric treatment. Follow-up assessment will occur at three months. IDEAS for Hope is informed by a Motivational Interviewing-enhanced safety planning intervention (MI-SafeCope) and our formative work in Tanzania. The model consists of Four Pillars: living healthy with HIV, managing HIV stigma, seeking social support, and meeting basic needs. Together, these mechanisms serve as a foundation for developing a sense of safety and hope for the future. Outcome measures will include intervention feasibility, acceptability, participant suicidality, and HIV care engagement. SIGNIFICANCE: Innovative, telehealth-based counseling represents a promising treatment for suicidality among PLWH in low-resource settings. Results from this pilot trial will inform intervention refinement and parameter estimates for a future clinical trial powered to evaluate effectiveness.

321. Hip and trunk kinematics during reaching on a mobile and stable seat.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Haas MC, Sommer BB, Karrer S

322. Initial functional disability as a 1-year prognostic factor in geriatric patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Brière O, Otekpo M, Asfar M

323. Intelligent identification of natural gas pipeline defects based on improved pollination algorithm.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Gao Y, Luo Z, Wanng Y

324. Using whole blood cultures in interferon gamma release assays to detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex infection in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Pongma C, Songthammanuphap S, Puthong S

325. Social support for postpartum women and associated factors including online support to reduce stress and depression amidst COVID-19: Results of an online survey in Thailand.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Kim SJ, Aye YM, Panyarachun D

BACKGROUND: Social support for postpartum women helps mothers to recover from childbirth and fosters healthy infant development. However, the impacts of reduced interpersonal interactions inflicted by the COVID-19 outbreak on available social support for postpartum women have received little attention. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the levels of social support provided to postpartum women and associated factors in Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2021 using an anonymous online questionnaire. The responses of 840 eligible women up to six months postpartum in Thailand were obtained. The maternity social support scale was used to measure social support. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the factors associated with social support among postpartum women. RESULTS: About 57% of women reported to receive high support. Women in the high social support group were more likely to be married (aOR:2.70; 95% CI:1.57-4.66), have a university education or above (1.88; 1.35-2.64), have an intended pregnancy (2.06; 1.34-3.16), good health (2.01; 1.44-2.81), good sleep quality (1.62; 1.14-2.31), receive counsel from peers or family (1.56; 1.13-2.16), and use internet or social media to reduce stress and depression (1.51; 1.08-2.11). Meanwhile, women in the high social support group were significantly less likely to feed complementary foods to infants within 24 hours of completing the survey (0.28; 0.15-0.52). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study indicated that more than half of the women reported high support and illustrated the important role played by family, peers, and professionals as well as online and remote channels in providing postpartum informational and emotional support during the pandemic. Online platforms and remote support may be considered to provide social support to postpartum women during a pandemic such as COVID-19.

326. Adding mechanical vibration to a half squat with different ballasts and rhythms increases movement variability.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Tuyà Viñas S, Fernández-Valdés Villa B, Pérez-Chirinos Buxadé C

327. Dual-energy computed tomography material decomposition improves prediction accuracy of hematoma expansion in traumatic intracranial hemorrhage.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lee J, Park ST, Hwang SC

OBJECTIVE: The angiographic spot sign (AS) on CT angiography (CTA) is known to be useful for predicting expansion in intracranial hemorrhage, but its use is limited due to its relatively low sensitivity. Recently, dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) has been shown to be superior in distinguishing between hemorrhage and iodine. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of hematoma expansion (HE) using DECT AS in traumatic intracranial hemorrhage. METHODS: We recruited participants with intracranial hemorrhage confirmed via CTA for suspected traumatic cerebrovascular injuries. We evaluated AS on both conventional-like and fusion images of DECT. AS is grouped into three categories: intralesional enhancement without change, delayed enhancement (DE), and growing contrast leakage (GL). HE was evaluated by measuring hematoma size on DECT and follow-up CT. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate whether AS on fusion images was a significant risk factor for HE. Diagnostic accuracy was calculated, and the results from conventional-like and fusion images were compared. RESULTS: Thirty-nine hematomas in 24 patients were included in this study. Of these, 18 hematomas in 13 patients showed expansion on follow-up CT. Among the expanders, AS and GL on fusion images were noted in 13 and 5 hematomas, respectively. In non-expanders, 10 and 1 hematoma showed AS and GL, respectively. In the logistic regression model, GL on the fusion image was a significant independent risk factor for predicting HE. However, when AS was used on conventional-like images, no factors significantly predicted HE. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve of AS on the fusion images was 0.71, with a sensitivity and specificity of 66.7% and 76.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: GL on fusion images of DECT in traumatic intracranial hemorrhage is a significant independent radiologic risk factor for predicting HE. The AS of DECT fusion images has improved sensitivity compared to that of conventional-like images.

328. Harmonization of ICF Body Structures and ICD-11 Anatomic Detail: One foundation for multiple classifications.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Della Mea V, Almborg AH, Martinuzzi M

The Family of International Classifications of the World Health Organization (WHO-FIC) currently includes three reference classifications, namely International Classification of Diseases (ICD), International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF), and International Classification of Health Interventions (ICHI). Recently, the three classifications have been incorporated into a single WHO-FIC Foundation that serves as the repository of all concepts in the classifications. Each classification serves a specific classification need. However, they share some common concepts that are present, in different forms, in two or all of them. For the WHO-FIC Foundation to be a logically consistent repository without duplicates, these common concepts must be reconciled. One important set of shared concepts is the representation of human anatomy entities, which are not always modeled in the same way and with the same level of detail. To understand the relationships among the three anatomical representations, an effort is needed to compare them, identifying common areas, gaps, and compatible and incompatible modeling. The work presented here contributes to this effort, focusing on the anatomy representations in ICF and ICD-11. For this aim, three experts were asked to identify, for each entity in the ICF Body Structures, one or more entities in the ICD-11 Anatomic Detail that could be considered identical, broader or narrower. To do this, they used a specifically developed web application, which also automatically identified the most obvious equivalences. A total of 631 maps were independently identified by the three mappers for 218 ICF Body Structures, with an interobserver agreement of 93.5%. Together with 113 maps identified by the software, they were then consolidated into 434 relations. The results highlight some differences between the two classifications: in general, ICF is less detailed than ICD-11; ICF favors lumping of structures; in very few cases, the two classifications follow different anatomic models. For these issues, solutions have to be found that are compliant with the WHO approach to classification modeling and maintenance.

329. Workplace violence and its associated factors among health care workers of a tertiary hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bhusal A, Adhikari A, Singh Pradhan PM.

Workplace violence (WPV) is a globally prevailing public health concerns among healthcare workers. Workplace violence includes occupational abuse (physical, sexual, verbal and psychological), threats or harm among health workers, and workplace harassment. It is important to identify the prevalence of workplace violence at the workplace. Therefore, this study aimed to assess workplace violence and its associated factors among healthcare workers at a tertiary hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 369 health care workers in a tertiary hospital in Kathmandu. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS v20. Descriptive statistics were used to assess workplace violence and other independent variables. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression model was used to examine the factors associated with workplace violence. The prevalence of verbal violence was highest among doctors (34.3%) and nurses (52.8%) followed by bullied/mobbed among doctors (11.9%) and nurses (17%) any time in the past. Experience of any type of workplace violence in the past among doctor was 45.5% and among nurses was 54% while 35.8% doctors and 46.8% nurses had experienced it in the past 12 months. Patients and relatives of patient were major perpetrator for physical and verbal violence while management and staff members were major perpetrators for bullying/mobbing. Participants marital status, work experience, posted department, nature of work shift, frequency of night shift and working hours per week showed statistically significant association with the experience of workplace violence within past 12 months (p<0.05) in binary logistic regression analysis. There is a crucial need to establish evidence-based actions to prevent violence in the workplace and promote a healthy workplace setting. Placing adequate staffs at emergency and medical departments and providing training to cope with the stressful emergency situations would help in minimizing workplace violence among health workers.

330. Participatory action research to address lack of safe water, a community-nominated health priority in rural South Africa.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Hove J, Mabetha D, van der Merwe M

BACKGROUND: Despite international evidence supporting community participation in health for improved health outcomes and more responsive and equitable health systems there is little practical evidence on how to do this. This work sought to understand the process involved in collective implementation of a health-related local action plan developed by multiple stakeholders. METHODS: Communities, government departments and non-government stakeholders convened in three iterative phases of a participatory action research (PAR) learning cycle. Stakeholders were involved in problem identification, development, and implementation of a local action plan, reflection on action, and reiteration of the process. Participants engaged in reflective exercises, exploring how factors such as power and interest impacted success or failure. RESULTS: The local action plan was partially successful, with three out of seven action items achieved. High levels of both power and interest were key factors in the achievement of action items. For the achieved items, stakeholders reported that continuous interactions with one another created a shift in both power and interest through ownership of implementation processes. Participants who possessed significant power and influence were able to leverage resources and connections to overcome obstacles and barriers to progress the plan. Lack of financial support, shifting priorities and insufficient buy-in from stakeholders hindered implementation. CONCLUSION: The process offered new ways of thinking and stakeholders were supported to generate local evidence for action and learning. The process also enabled exploration of how different stakeholders with different levels of power and interest coalesce to design, plan, and act on evidence. Creation of safe spaces was achievable, meanwhile changing stakeholders' level of power and interest was possible but challenging. This study suggests that when researchers, service providers and communities are connected as legitimate participants in a learning platform with access to information and decision-making, a shift in power and interest may be feasible.

331. Evaluation of disinfection methods for personal protective equipment (PPE) items for reuse during a pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Archer J, Mikelonis A, Wyrzykowska-Ceradini B

332. Quantifying postprandial glucose responses using a hybrid modeling approach: Combining mechanistic and data-driven models in The Maastricht Study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Erdős B, van Sloun B, Goossens GH

333. Exploring the barriers and enablers of diabetes care in a remote Australian context: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bourke S, Munira SL, Parkinson A

OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study explored the current barriers and enablers of diabetes care in the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT). METHODS: A constructivist grounded theory approach that incorporated semi-structured telephone interviews was employed. Initial analysis of the interview transcripts used a line-by-line approach, to identify recurring themes, connections, and patterns, before they were re-labelled and categorised. This was followed by axial coding, categorisation refinement, and mapping of diabetes triggers in the IOT. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING: The IOT, consisting of Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, are some of the most remote areas in Australia. When compared with mainland Australia, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the IOT is disproportionately higher. There were no known cases of type 1 diabetes at the time of the study. Like other remote communities, these communities experience difficulties in accessing health services to prevent and manage diabetes. Twenty health care professionals and health service administrators in the IOT took part in semi-structured telephone interviews held during April-June 2020. Participants included GPs, nurses, dietitians, social and community services workers, school principals, and administrators. The interview questions focused on their perceptions of the current diabetes care in place in the IOT and their views on the challenges of providing diabetes care in the IOT. RESULTS: We identified four main barriers and two main enabling factors to the provision of effective diabetes care in the IOT. The barriers were: (i) societal influences; (ii) family; (iii) changing availability of food; (v) sustainability and communication. The two main enablers were: (i) tailoring interventions to meet local and cultural needs and values; and (ii) proactive compliance with the medical model of care. CONCLUSION: Due to the cultural and linguistic diversity within the IOT, many of the identified barriers and enablers are unique to this community and need to be considered and incorporated into routine diabetes care to ensure successful and effective delivery of services in a remote context.

334. Sea star wasting syndrome reaches the high Antarctic: Two recent outbreaks in McMurdo Sound.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Moran AL, McLachlan RH, Thurber AR.

335. Understanding factors influencing healthcare workers' intention towards the COVID-19 vaccine.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Xie Z, Qalati SA, Limón MLS

336. Survival outcomes of breast cancer patients with recurrence after surgery according to period and subtype.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lee YJ, Yoo TK, Kim J

337. Member commitment in farmers' cooperatives in China: The role of contractual and relational governance mechanisms.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Zeng L, Wan J, He Q.

338. Prevalence and appropriateness of in-person versus not-in-person ambulatory antibiotic prescribing in an integrated academic health system: A cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Brown T, Lee JY, Guzman A

OBJECTIVES: Ambulatory antibiotic stewardship generally aims to address the appropriateness of antibiotics prescribed at in-person visits. The prevalence and appropriateness of antibiotics prescribed outside of in-person visits is poorly studied. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective cohort study of all ambulatory antibiotic prescribing in an integrated health delivery system in the United States. PARTICIPANTS: Antibiotic prescribers and patients receiving oral antibiotic prescriptions between January 2016 and December 2019. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Proportion of antibiotics prescribed with in-person visits or not-in-person encounters (e.g., telephone, refills). Proportion of prescriptions in in 5 mutually exclusive appropriateness groups: 1) chronic antibiotic use; 2) antibiotic-appropriate; 3) potentially antibiotic-appropriate; 4) non-antibiotic-appropriate; and 5) not associated with a diagnosis. RESULTS: Over the 4-year study period, there were 714,057 antibiotic prescriptions ordered for 348,739 unique patients by 2,391 clinicians in 467 clinics. Patients had a mean age of 41 years old, were 61% female, and 78% White. Clinicians were 58% women; 78% physicians; and were 42% primary care, 39% medical specialists, and 12% surgical specialists. Overall, 81% of antibiotics were prescribed with in-person visits and 19% without in-person visits. The most common not-in-person encounter types were telephone (10%), orders only (5%), and refill encounters (3%). Of all antibiotic prescriptions, 16% were for chronic use, 15% were antibiotic-appropriate, 39% were potentially antibiotic-appropriate, 22% were non-antibiotic-appropriate, and 8% were not associated with a diagnosis. Antibiotics prescribed in not-in-person encounters were more likely to be chronic (20% versus 15%); less likely to be associated with appropriate or potentially appropriate diagnoses (30% versus 59%) or non-antibiotic-appropriate diagnoses (8% versus 25%); and more likely to be associated with no diagnosis (42% versus <1%). CONCLUSIONS: Ambulatory stewardship interventions that focus only on in-person visits may miss a large proportion of antibiotic prescribing, inappropriate prescribing, and antibiotics prescribed in the absence of any diagnosis.

339. Representation of interactional metadiscourse in translated and native English: A corpus-assisted study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Chou I, Li W, Liu K.

340. YOLO-plum: A high precision and real-time improved algorithm for plum recognition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Niu Y, Lu M, Liang X

341. Models of care and the role of clinical pharmacists in UK primary care for older adults: A scoping review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Davies N, Kolodin V, Woodward A

INTRODUCTION: There has been global investment of new ways of working to support workforce pressures, including investment in clinical pharmacists working in primary care by the NHS in the England. Clinical pharmacists are well suited to support older adults who have multiple long-term conditions and are on multiple medications. It is important to establish an evidence base for the role of clinical pharmacists in supporting older adults in primary care, to inform strategic and research priorities. The aim of this scoping review is to identify, map and describe existing research and policy/guidance on the role of clinical pharmacists in primary care supporting older adults, and the models of care they provide. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A scoping review guided by the Joanne Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews, using a three-step strategy. We will search Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, PSYCHInfo, and Cochrane for English language articles, from 2015 -present day. Grey literature will be searched using Grey Matters guidelines, the Index of Grey Literature and Alternative Sources and Resources, and Google keyword searching. References of all included sources will be hand searched to identify further resources. Using the Population, Concept and Context framework for inclusion and exclusion criteria, articles will be independently screened by two reviewers. The inclusion and exclusion criteria will be refined after we become familiar with the search results, following the iterative nature of a scoping review. Data will be extracted using a data extraction tool using Microsoft Excel and presented using a narrative synthesis approach. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required for this review. Review findings will be disseminated in academic conferences and used to inform subsequent qualitative research. Findings will be published and shared with relevant local and national organisations.

342. Assessing the knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS among the general population and health care professionals in MENA region.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Elghazaly A, AlSaeed N, Islam S

INTRODUCTION: Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection continue to represent a global health concern influenced by various social, economic, and cultural factors. The MENA are among the top regions in the world with the fastest-growing HIV epidemic. Thus, adequate knowledge and a positive attitude of people toward HIV/AIDS are of utmost importance to prevent the spreading of the disease. Accordingly, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of the public and healthcare population toward HIV/AIDs. METHODS: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among residents within our population from October 2018 until August 2019. An anonymous online questionnaire was used to investigate the population's demographic characteristics, HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, and attitudes toward HIV-infected patients. Participants completed a 40-item questionnaire designed to measure their knowledge and attitude toward HIV/AIDS. The data was collected via surveys, administered through electronic tablets to the participants at public places (n = 5,757) and through an online version of the questionnaire on Google Forms (n = 2500), which was sent through social media platforms. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data using the R-statistical software program. RESULTS: A total of 8,257 participants were included in our analysis. Saudi Arabian citizens represented 79% of the participants, while participants from the MENA countries represented 11.7% and 3% from the other Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Fifty-nine (59%) knew that HIV is a contagious infection, and 13.8% were unaware that HIV could be transmitted sexually. A few healthcare professionals reported negative attitudes toward HIV infected patients. Many risk factors, including age, gender, nationality, and education, significantly affected the knowledge and attitude scores. In this survey, we found that social media is the primary source of participants' information. CONCLUSIONS: Overall correct knowledge score of individuals about HIV/AIDS was relatively low. This study showed that the general population was knowledgeable to a certain degree about HIV/AIDS and its modes of transmission. Nevertheless, they lack a detailed understanding of the disease's nature, modes of transmission, and existing treatment. Policymakers in the region should further eliminate social discrimination and stigma in HIV-infected patients.

343. Impact of climate change on SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yu Z, Wang J, Tan Z

344. Antimicrobial resistance landscape and COVID-19 impact in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon: A survey-based study and expert opinion.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bizri AR, El-Fattah AA, Bazaraa HM

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to assess the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) landscape and the impact of COVID-19 on AMR in Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon, and to gather expert opinions on the barriers to the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives in the region. METHODS: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was used to assess the current AMR landscape, existing AMS initiatives, barriers to implementing AMS initiatives, and the impact of COVID-19 on AMR in the four countries. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 204 physicians from Egypt (n = 82), Lebanon (n = 49), Iraq (n = 43), and Jordan (n = 30). Previous antibiotic use and previous bacterial colonization were perceived as the most common risk factors for an increase in AMR. According to the survey, multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacteria were most common in lower respiratory tract infections, and Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli were the most commonly identified gram-negative bacteria in hospital-acquired infections. Only 14.8% of pediatric physicians and 28.6% of adult physicians reported that target pathogen genotyping and phenotyping were done in hospitals, and the most commonly reported reasons for the lack of testing were technological and resource constraints. These constraints, coupled with the scarcity and high cost of newer antibiotics, have been identified as the most significant barriers to the successful management of MDR gram-negative bacterial infections in the region. It was reported that the spectrum of activity and safety of the antibiotic, the site of infection, the presence of comorbidities, and published guidelines and local antibiograms determined the choice of empirical antibiotic therapy for patients in the region. The four countries experienced a significant rise in AMR due to several factors during the COVID-19 pandemic, including an increase in hospital occupancy, a shift in priorities away from AMR surveillance, and changes in AMR epidemiology. Additionally, the large volumes of unnecessary and unsubstantiated antibiotic prescriptions during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to subsequent antibiotic shortages and significant increases in AMR in the region. Physicians also noted that the majority of COVID-19 patients were already on antibiotics before visiting the healthcare facility. MDR gram-negative bacteria were found in the majority of COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Despite the fact that various AMS initiatives have been implemented, they are not standardized across the region. Some of the main barriers to AMS implementation in the region are a lack of adequately trained AMS staff, lack of AMS knowledge and training among healthcare professionals, financial constraints, and the lack of AMR surveillance systems. CONCLUSION: These survey results provide valuable insights into the existing AMR and AMS landscape in the region, as well as the barriers that impede efficient AMS and AMR management. Based on these findings, the authors developed a call to action that suggests ways for each country in the region to address these challenges.

345. Comparative analysis of experimental and numerical investigation on multiple projectile impact of AA5083 friction stir welded targets.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Balaji S, Dharani Kumar S, Magarajan U

346. Admissions to psychiatric inpatient services and use of coercive measures in 2020 in a Swiss psychiatric department: An interrupted time-series analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Wullschleger A, Gonçalves L, Royston M

347. Understanding the role of veterinarians in antimicrobial stewardship on Canadian dairy farms: A mixed-methods study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Cobo-Angel C, Roche SM, LeBlanc SJ.

The aim of this study was to describe the factors that influence dairy cattle veterinarians´ antimicrobial prescribing, their attitudes toward reducing antimicrobial use (AMU) in the dairy industry, awareness of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and perceived barriers to improving antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) on Canadian dairy farms. We used quantitative and qualitative research methods to consider the complexity of the antimicrobial prescription decision-making process. We designed and distributed an online survey, followed by four online focus groups with practicing veterinarians. We used frequency tables and unconditional associations to analyze quantitative data, and thematic analysis to analyze qualitative data. In total, 107 participants from four Canadian provinces responded to the survey, and 26 veterinarians participated in the focus groups. Results from both studies were triangulated to draw our key findings. We found that 1) Veterinarians must weigh numerous intra-personal and contextual considerations that could be conflicting in their decision-making process for prescribing antimicrobials. 2) Although less experienced veterinarians showed greater awareness of AMR and motivation to improve AMS than more experienced veterinarians, they also reported feeling more pressure to adapt their prescribing practices to farmers' wishes than more experienced veterinarians. 3) Some veterinarians experienced conflict between prescribing antimicrobials to maintain animal health, productivity, and welfare, and AMS, which could result in blaming others for inappropriate antimicrobial use and reducing the opportunity to critically review their own prescribing practices. 4) There were strategies and barriers in common between veterinarians and farmers such as collaborative reviews of disease treatment protocols and improving preventive medicine on dairy farms. 5) The main barriers to reducing AMU on dairy farms reported by veterinarians were concerns about animal welfare and AMU on dairy farms without consultation with the veterinarian. Our results can inform the development of AMS programs in the Canadian dairy industry.

348. Regulation of the phagocytic activity of astrocytes by neuroimmune mediators endogenous to the central nervous system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yang SS, Simtchouk S, Gibon J

349. Longitudinal multiplexity and structural constraints of online emergency collaborative networks: A tale of two Chinese societies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Wang X.

350. Exploring the concordance of recommendations across guidelines on chest imaging for the diagnosis and management of COVID-19: A proposed methodological approach based on a case study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yaacoub S, Chamseddine F, Jaber F

351. Influence of learning styles on student performance in self-instructional courses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Oliveira A, Spinola V, Garrido D

352. Continuous speech with pauses inserted between words increases cortical tracking of speech envelope.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Deoisres S, Lu Y, Vanheusden FJ

The decoding multivariate Temporal Response Function (decoder) or speech envelope reconstruction approach is a well-known tool for assessing the cortical tracking of speech envelope. It is used to analyse the correlation between the speech stimulus and the neural response. It is known that auditory late responses are enhanced with longer gaps between stimuli, but it is not clear if this applies to the decoder, and whether the addition of gaps/pauses in continuous speech could be used to increase the envelope reconstruction accuracy. We investigated this in normal hearing participants who listened to continuous speech with no added pauses (natural speech), and then with short (250 ms) or long (500 ms) silent pauses inserted between each word. The total duration for continuous speech stimulus with no, short, and long pauses were approximately, 10 minutes, 16 minutes, and 21 minutes, respectively. EEG and speech envelope were simultaneously acquired and then filtered into delta (1-4 Hz) and theta (4-8 Hz) frequency bands. In addition to analysing responses to the whole speech envelope, speech envelope was also segmented to focus response analysis on onset and non-onset regions of speech separately. Our results show that continuous speech with additional pauses inserted between words significantly increases the speech envelope reconstruction correlations compared to using natural speech, in both the delta and theta frequency bands. It also appears that these increase in speech envelope reconstruction are dominated by the onset regions in the speech envelope. Introducing pauses in speech stimuli has potential clinical benefit for increasing auditory evoked response detectability, though with the disadvantage of speech sounding less natural. The strong effect of pauses and onsets on the decoder should be considered when comparing results from different speech corpora. Whether the increased cortical response, when longer pauses are introduced, reflect improved intelligibility requires further investigation.

353. Intraocular lens power calculation in eyes with a shallow anterior chamber depth and normal axial length.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lee Y, Kim MK, Oh JY

354. Crisis response during the COVID-19 pandemic: Changes in social contact and social participation of older Americans.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Zhang Y, Luo A, Hou L

355. Genomic characterization and virulence of Streptococcus suis serotype 4 clonal complex 94 recovered from human and swine samples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Hatrongjit R, Boueroy P, Jenjaroenpun P

356. A comprehensive protein interaction map and druggability investigation prioritized dengue virus NS1 protein as promising therapeutic candidate.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Farooq QUA, Aiman S, Ali Y

357. Genetic and environmental contributions to individual differences in sustainable working life-A Swedish twin cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ropponen A, Narusyte J, Wang M

358. A cyber-physical system to design 3D models using mixed reality technologies and deep learning for additive manufacturing.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Malik A, Lhachemi H, Shorten R.

359. Strengthening the strategy to sustain optimal iodine status in the Republic of Moldova: Assessing the use of iodized salt in industrially processed foods.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Salaru I, Demiscan D, Turcan L.

BACKGROUND: Although national legislation in the Republic of Moldova includes the use of iodized salt in processed food industry as well as household (cooking and table) salt, little is known of the actual use of iodized salt in the food industry and its contribution to the overall iodine intake of the population. This study has helped to address the gap in understanding about how much iodized salt is used in the production of different foods and to identify where more information is still required in order to more fully characterize the contribution of food industry salt to population iodine intake. METHODS: Using the available food consumption and production data, the assessment introduces a novel modelling technique, based on the methodology of the IGN Programme Guidance to assess the use of iodized salt in industrially produced foods (IPF). The method included the identification of key salt containing IPF and modelling of the salt and potential iodine intake in two groups of the population, non-pregnant adults and pregnant women. The findings were synthetized to develop a list of recommendations for adjustment or strengthening the existing salt iodization strategy. MAIN RESULTS: In RM, the salt used for industrially produced bread and household use provide almost 80% of all salt intake for adults. The intake from iodized salt at household level and the 8 key salt- containing IPF is estimated to currently meet 89% and 53% of the recommended nutrient for adults and pregnant women, respectively. If all salt used at household level and industrial bread baking would be iodized, then, potentially, it could ensure 181% and 109%, respectively, of the required iodine intake. CONCLUSIONS: Use of iodized salt in the processed food industry is of growing significance and universal use of iodized salt at household level and in bread production could result in a desirable increase in iodine intake. The national salt iodization strategy should include strengthened regulatory monitoring of iodized salt use in the bread baking industry.

360. Benefit finding and well-being over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Moore JB, Rubin KCR, Heaney CA.

361. Fungicides and strawberry pollination-Effects on floral scent, pollen attributes and bumblebee behavior.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Voß AC, Hauertmann M, Laufer MC

362. Soliton solutions for the Zoomeron model applying three analytical techniques.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ullah MS, Mostafa M, Ali MZ

363. M2b macrophages protect against doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity via alternating autophagy in cardiomyocytes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Chen S, Huang Y, Huang S

364. The selection and validation of reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR studies in near-isogenic susceptible and resistant tomato lines, infected with the geminivirus tomato curly stunt virus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bokhale M, Mwaba I, Allie F.

365. Effects of an academic detailing service on benzodiazepine prescribing patterns in primary care.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lacroix M, Abdelmalek F, Everett K

BACKGROUND: Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat anxiety and/or insomnia but are associated with substantial safety risks. Changes to prescribing patterns in primary care may be facilitated through tailored quality improvement strategies. Academic detailing (AD) may be an effective method of promoting safe benzodiazepine prescribing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of AD on benzodiazepine prescribing among family physicians. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We used an interrupted time series matched cohort design using population-based administrative claims databases. Participants were family physicians practicing in Ontario, Canada. The intervention was a voluntary AD service which involves brief service-oriented educational outreach visits by a trained pharmacist. The focus was on key messages for safer benzodiazepine prescribing in primary care with an emphasis on judicious prescribing to older adults aged 65 and older. Physicians in the intervention group were those who received at least one AD visit on benzodiazepine use between June 2019 and February 2020. Physicians in the control group were included if they did not receive an AD visit during the study period. Intervention physicians were matched to control physicians 1:4, on a variety of characteristics. Physicians were excluded if they had inactive billing or billing of less than 100 unique patient visits in the calendar year prior to the index date. The primary outcome was mean total benzodiazepine prescriptions at the level of the physician. Secondary outcomes were rate (per 100) of patients with long-term prescriptions, high-risk prescriptions, newly started prescriptions, and benzodiazepine-related patient harms. Data were analyzed using a repeated measures pre-post comparison with an intention-to-treat. Analyses were then stratified to focus on effects within higher-prescribing physicians. There were 1337 physicians were included in the study; 237 who received AD and 1064 who did not. There was no significant change in benzodiazepine prescribing when considering all physicians in the intervention and matched control groups. Although not significant, a greater reduction in total benzodiazepine prescriptions was observed amongst the highest-volume prescribing physicians who received the intervention (% change in slope = -0.53, 95%CI = -2.34 to 1.30, p > .05). The main limitation of our study was the voluntary nature of the AD intervention, which may have introduced a self-selection bias of physicians most open to changing their prescribing. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that future AD interventions should focus on physicians with the greatest room for improvement to their prescribing.

366. Lifestyle interventions for patients with non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis-Design, rationale and protocol of the study "target group-specific optimisation of lifestyle interventions for behavior change in non-alcoholic steato-hepatitis (OPTI-NASH)".

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Krüger K, Oedingen C, Kautz A

367. Bi-frequency operation in a membrane external-cavity surface-emitting laser.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Daykin J, Woods JRC, Bek R

368. The effect of playing e-sports games on young people's desire to engage in physical activity: Mediating effects of social presence perception and virtual sports experience.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ningning W, Wenguang C.

369. Exploring bacterial community composition and immune gene expression of European eel larvae (Anguilla anguilla) in relation to first-feeding diets.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Bandara KA, Benini E, Politis SN

European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is a commercially important species for fisheries and aquaculture in Europe and the attempt to close the lifecycle in captivity is still at pioneering stage. The first feeding stage of this species is characterized by a critical period between 20 to 24 days post hatch (dph), which is associated with mortalities, indicating the point of no return. We hypothesized that this critical period might also be associated with larvae-bacterial interactions and the larval immune status. To test this, bacterial community composition and expression of immune and stress-related genes of hatchery-produced larvae were explored from the end of endogenous feeding (9 dph) until 28 dph, in response to three experimental first-feeding diets (Diet 1, Diet 2 and Diet 3). Changes in the water bacterial community composition were also followed. Results revealed that the larval stress/repair mechanism was activated during this critical period, marked by an upregulated expression of the hsp90 gene, independent of the diet fed. At the same time, a shift towards a potentially detrimental larval bacterial community was observed in all dietary groups. Here, a significant reduction in evenness of the larval bacterial community was observed, and several amplicon sequence variants belonging to potentially harmful bacterial genera were more abundant. This indicates that detrimental larvae-bacteria interactions were likely involved in the mortality observed. Beyond the critical period, the highest survival was registered for larvae fed Diet 3. Interestingly, genes encoding for pathogen recognition receptor TLR18 and complement component C1QC were upregulated in this group, potentially indicating a higher immunocompetency that facilitated a more successful handling of the harmful bacteria that dominated the bacterial community of larvae on 22 dph, ultimately leading to better survival, compared to the other two groups.

370. Experimental approach to the dislodging effect and the mortality of a pesticide in the yellow scorpion Tityus serrulatus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Murayama GP, Barbosa B, Willemart RH.

371. Secondary traumatic stress and work ability in death care workers: The moderating role of vicarious posttraumatic growth.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Grandi A, Rizzo M, Colombo L.

372. Indoor aeroallergens from American cockroaches and mites initiate atopic march via cutaneous contact in a murine model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Lee MF, Chu YW, Wu CS

373. Deliberative panels as a source of public knowledge: A large-sample test of the Citizens' Initiative Review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Gastil J, Ársælsson KM, Knobloch KR

374. Using machine learning to design a short test from a full-length test of functional health literacy in adults-The development of a short form of the Danish TOFHLA.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Hæsum LKE, Cichosz SL, Hejlesen OK.

INTRODUCTION: Patients are compelled to become more involved in shared decision making with healthcare professionals in the self-management of chronic disease and general adherence to treatment. Therefore, it is valuable to be able to identify patients with low functional health literacy so they can be given special instructions about the management of chronic disease and medications. However, time spent by both patients and clinicians is a concern when introducing a screening instrument in the clinical setting, which raises the need for short instruments for assessing health literacy that can be used by patients without the involvement of healthcare personnel. This paper describes the development of a short version of the full-length Danish TOFHLA (DS-TOFHLA) that is easily applicable in the clinical context and where the use does not require a trained interviewer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected as a part of a large-scale telehomecare project (TeleCare North), which was a randomized controlled trial that included 1225 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The DS-TOFHLA was developed solely using an algorithm-based selection of variables and multiple linear regression. A multiple linear regression model was developed using an exhaustive search strategy. RESULTS: The exhaustive search showed that the number of items in the full-length TOFHLA could be reduced from 17 numeracy items and 50 reading comprehension items to 20 reading comprehension items while maintaining a correlation of r = 0.90 between the scores from full-length and short versions. A generic model-based approach was developed, which is suitable for development of short versions of the TOFHLA in other languages, including the original American version. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated how a generic model-based approach could be applied in the development of a short version of the TOFHLA, thereby reducing the 67 items to 20 items in the short version. Furthermore, this study showed that the inclusion of numeracy items was not necessary. The development of the DS-TOFHLA presents an opportunity to reliably identify patients with inadequate functional health literacy in approximately 5 minutes without involvement of healthcare personnel. The approach may be used in the development of short versions of any scaling questionnaire.

375. The assessment of molecular dynamics results of three-dimensional RNA aptamer structure prediction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ropii B, Bethasari M, Anshori I

376. Weight stigma after bariatric surgery: A qualitative study with Brazilian women.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Dimitrov Ulian M, Fernandez Unsain R, Rocha Franco R

377. W-Net: Convolutional neural network for segmenting remote sensing images by dual path semantics.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Liu G, Wang Q, Zhu J

378. Modeling Barcelona sidewalks: A high resolution urban scale assessment of the geometric attributes of the walkable network.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Valls F, Clua Á.

379. Effect of place-based policy on regional economic growth: A quasi-natural experiment from China's Old Revolutionary Development Program.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Pan D, Zhou P, Kong F.

380. Assessing the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Nursing Practice Readiness Scale among Saudi nursing students.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Alquwez N, Cruz JP, Balay-Odao E.

381. Organisation, staffing and resources of critical care units in Kenya.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Mwangi W, Kaddu R, Njoki Muiru C

OBJECTIVE: To describe the organisation, staffing patterns and resources available in critical care units in Kenya. The secondary objective was to explore variations between units in the public and private sectors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online cross-sectional survey was used to collect data on organisational characteristics (model of care, type of unit, quality- related activities, use of electronic medical records and participation in the national ICU registry), staffing and available resources for monitoring, ventilation and general critical care. RESULTS: The survey included 60 of 75 identified units (80% response rate), with 43% (n = 23) located in government facilities. A total of 598 critical care beds were reported with a median of 6 beds (interquartile range [IQR] 5-11) per unit, with 26% beds (n = 157) being non functional. The proportion of ICU beds to total hospital beds was 3.8% (IQR 1.9-10.4). Most of the units (80%, n = 48) were mixed/general units with an open model of care (60%, n = 36). Consultants-in-charge were mainly anesthesiologists (69%, n = 37). The nurse-to-bed ratio was predominantly 1:2 with half of the nurses formally trained in critical care. Most units (83%, n = 47) had a dedicated ventilator for each bed, however 63% (n = 39) lacked high flow nasal therapy. While basic multiparametric monitoring was ubiquitous, invasive blood pressure measurement capacity was low (3% of beds, IQR 0-81%), and capnography moderate (31% of beds, IQR 0-77%). Blood gas analysers were widely available (93%, n = 56), with 80% reported as functional. Differences between the public and private sector were narrow. CONCLUSION: This study shows an established critical care network in Kenya, in terms of staffing density, availability of basic monitoring and ventilation resources. The public and private sector are equally represented albeit with modest differences. Potential areas for improvement include training, use of invasive blood pressure and functionality of blood gas analysers.

382. Assessing the competitiveness of solar photovoltaic products in comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-pacific partnership countries.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Guo Q, You W.

383. Self-reported and measured anthropometric variables in association with cardiometabolic markers: A Danish cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Zhang J, Olsen A, Halkjær J

General obesity is a recognized risk factor for various metabolically related diseases, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and pre-diabetes. In epidemiological studies, anthropometric variables such as height and weight are often self-reported. However, misreporting of self-reported data may bias estimates of associations between anthropometry and health outcomes. Further, few validation studies have compared self-reported and measured waist circumference (WC). This study aimed to quantify the agreement between self-reported and measured height, weight, body mass index (BMI), WC, and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and to investigate associations of these anthropometric measures with cardiometabolic biomarkers. A total of 39,514 participants aged above 18 years were included into the Diet, Cancer, and Health-Next Generation Cohort in 2015-19. Self-reported and measured anthropometric variables, blood pressure, and cardiometabolic biomarkers (HbA1c, lipid profiles, C-reactive protein and creatinine) were collected by standard procedures. Pearson correlations (r) and Lin's concordance correlations were applied to evaluate misreporting. Misreporting by age, sex and smoking status was investigated in linear regression models. Multivariable regression models and Receiver Operating Characteristic analyses assessed associations of self-reported and measured anthropometry with cardiometabolic biomarkers. Self-reported height was overreported by 1.07 cm, and weight was underreported by 0.32 kg on average. Self-reported BMI and WC were 0.42 kg/m2 and 0.2 cm lower than measured, respectively. Self-reported and measured height, weight, BMI, WC and WtHR were strongly correlated (r = 0.98, 0.99, 0.98, 0.88, 0.86, respectively). Age, sex, smoking, and BMI contributed to misreporting of all anthropometric measures. Associations between self-reported or measured anthropometric measures and cardiometabolic biomarkers were similar in direction and strength. Concordance between self-reported and measured anthropometric measures, including WC, was very high. Self-reported anthropometric measures were reliable when estimating associations with cardiometabolic biomarkers.

384. Analytical performance of the digital morphology analyzer Sysmex DI-60 for body fluid cell differential counts.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Yoon S, Kim HR.

385. Choroidal vascularity index in different types of central serous chorioretinopathy: A meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Xia Y, Li X, Zhang J

PURPOSE: To evaluate the choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in different types of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), healthy control eyes, and fellow eyes. METHODS: Relevant studies published up to January 2023 were identified by searching multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Studies investigating the difference in CVI between CSC and control eyes were included. Data from these studies were analyzed using Stata (version 17) software. Weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated for the CVI in CSC eyes, control eyes, and fellow eyes. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 15 studies, with 213 acute CSC eyes, 153 chronic CSC eyes, 92 uncategorized CSC eyes, 40 resolved CSC eyes, 409 eyes of normal healthy controls, and 318 fellow eyes. The result revealed that CVI was higher in acute CSC eyes (WMD = 5.40, 95%CI = 2.36-8.44, P = 0.001) compared to control eyes. Also, CVI in chronic CSC eyes was higher than in control eyes (WMD = 1.26, 95%CI = 0.03-2.49, p = 0.046). The fellow eyes of acute CSC had a higher CVI when compared to control eyes (WMD = 2.53, 95%CI = 0.78-4.28, p = 0.005). There was no significant difference in CVI between acute and chronic CSC eyes (WMD = 0.75, 95%CI = -0.31-1.82, P = 0.167). In the sub-analysis based on the area selected for CVI calculation, the WMDs in the whole image subgroups were lower than the main analysis for the comparisons of fellow eyes of acute CSC and control eyes, acute CSC eyes and control eyes, and acute CSC eyes and fellow eyes. In the macular area subgroups, the WMDs were higher than in the whole image subgroups, suggesting a potential regional variation of CVI in CSC eyes. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrated that CVI is increased in CSC eyes and fellow eyes of acute CSC. There is no significant difference in CVI between acute and chronic CSC eyes. The area selected for CVI calculation can influence the outcome, which requires further clinical research to clarify.

386. Safety and efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells therapy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Mesa LE, López JG, López Quiceno L

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Some patients have insufficient treatment response to conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (cDMARD); although biologics have proven to be an effective treatment for RA, the effects that bDMARDs have on integumentary, cardiac, and immune systems and the high costs associated with these treatments, make that mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies (MSCs) for RA are being considered potential treatment methods. This work analyses the performance in safety and efficacy terms of MSCs techniques. METHODS AND FINDING: A literature search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Open Grey databases from inception to October 28, 2022. Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one non-randomized controlled trial (non-RCTs), including 358 patients met our inclusion criteria and were included in qualitative synthesis; only RCTs were eligible for quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). Meta-analysis of adverse events (AE) in RCTs showed no significant differences in the incidence of AE in the MSCs group compared to the control group (Risk ratio: 2.35; 95% CI, 0.58 to 9.58; I2 = 58.80%). The pooled Risk ratio for non-serious and serious adverse events showed no statistical difference between intervention and control groups concerning the incidence of non-serious and serious adverse events (Risk ratio: 2.35; 95% CI, 0.58 to 9.51; I2 = 58.62%) and (Risk ratio: 1.10; 95% CI, 0.15 to 7.97; I2 = 0.0%) respectively. The Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and Disease Activity Score (DAS28) decreased in agreement with the decreasing values of C-reactive protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Additionally, a trend toward clinical efficacy was observed; however, this improvement was not shown in the studies after 12 months of follow-up without continuous treatment administration. CONCLUSION: This Systematic review and meta-analysis showed a favorable safety profile, without life-threatening events in subjects with RA, and a trend toward clinical efficacy that must be confirmed through high-quality RCTs, considerable sample size, and extended follow-up in subjects with RA.

387. Subjective burden of government-imposed Covid-19 restrictions in Switzerland: Evidence from the 2022 LINK Covid-19 survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Fink G, Förtsch K, Felder S.

388. Optimal selection of resampling methods for imbalanced data with high complexity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Kim A, Jung I.

389. Scikick: A sidekick for workflow clarity and reproducibility during extensive data analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Carlucci M, Bareikis T, Koncevičius K

390. ABVENTURE-P pilot trial of physical therapy versus standard of care following ventral hernia repair: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Di Stasi S, Chaudhari AMW, Renshaw S

Hernia disease is one of the most common reasons patients seek surgical treatment, yet nearly 1 in 4 patients seeking ventral hernia repair in the United States suffer from chronic pain, disability, and diminished physical activity. The relationships between the anterior abdominal wall, lower back, diaphragm, and pelvic floor are critical in providing function and quality of life, yet management of hernia disease has been limited to surgical restoration of anatomy without taking into consideration the functional relationships of the abdominal core. Therefore, the primary goal of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of implementing physical therapy targeted to improving stability and function in this population. A secondary goal is to estimate whether pre-operative abdominal core function predicts responsiveness to physical therapy. This study is a registry-based randomized controlled trial (NCT05142618: Pilot Trial of Abdominal Core Rehabilitation To Improve Outcomes After Ventral Hernia Repair (ABVENTURE-P)). All participants will be randomized to one of two post-operative treatment arms: standard of care plus up to 16 sessions of physical therapy, or standard of care alone. Primary timepoints include pre-operative (baseline) and ten weeks after surgery, with intermediate or secondary timepoints 30 days, 6 months, and 1 year post-operative. At each timepoint, participants will undergo functional and patient-reported outcome testing. We will also collect data on retention rate and treatment adherence. An intention to treat approach is planned for all analyses, using all participants who were randomized and have available data at the 10-week timepoint. This is a pilot and feasibility trial, hence our goals are to establish safety and initial efficacy of the PT intervention, retention and adherence to both PT and control arms, whether pre-operative abdominal core function predicts responsiveness to PT, and to collect a large enough sample to power a future definitive multi-center randomized controlled trial.

391. Economic geography of innovation: The effect of gender-related aspects of co-inventor networks on country and regional innovation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Tahmooresnejad L, Turkina E.

392. Evaluation of an inducible knockout system in insect cells based on co-infection and CRISPR/Cas9.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Hausjell CS, Klausberger M, Ernst W

393. The role of government policy, social infrastructure and Fengshui in intending to buy tourism real estate.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 27

Ma KV, Nguyen PV, Ahmed ZU.

People typically purchase residential properties for two reasons: to live in or invest. However, both purposes necessitate careful consideration before deciding because high financial costs are involved, and housing loans are typically considered necessary for this purpose. Customers' demands are constantly changing, becoming more complicated with higher requirements. The focus of this research is on tourism real estate selection. This market in Vietnam is still new and emerging and has encountered numerous issues regarding government policy, finance, and land authorization for constructing, owning, and managing. Because the form of tourism real estate is still new, customers are hesitant about investing in or buying these properties. Hence, to compete in the current fiercely real estate industry, real estate firms must understand their customers' expectations by frequently involving customer research in the company's strategy. However, there is still a lack of research on the connection between these factors and individual expectations in the well-known philosophy of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), leading to behavioral intentions. Therefore, to fulfill the gap in the previous literature, this paper aims to investigate the connection between these factors with core variables of TPB, hence, addressing the current problems in the real estate industry. 471 valid respondents in Vietnam were collected for data analysis through two survey approaches. PLS-SEM was used to test hypotheses due to the relationship complication in the conceptual models. The results show that government policy influences attitudes and perceived behavioral control, whereas social infrastructure affects social norms and perceived behavioral control. Moreover, Fengshui ambient condition also positively influences all three core factors: attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control. Finally, these factors impact on intention to buy tourism real estate. Through results, this paper has developed a purchase intention model through social aspects of the tourism real estate industry. In addition, this paper demonstrates the connection between social factors and individuals' expectations for a purchase intention, providing the importance of the government's role, architecture style, and social infrastructure in the marketing literature of the real estate industry. As a result, managers and governments need to take advantage of new releases of government regulations in time to enhance customers' positive attitudes toward purchasing tourism real estate. Moreover, social infrastructure and Fengshui conditions are crucial to establishing social norms and perceived control, aiming to leverage the intention to purchase tourism real estate. Thereby, recommendations of marketing strategies based on these findings were suggested to attain the optimal result for sales. Finally, this research also includes some limitations. Hence, suggestions for further research were also provided, such as possible moderation, possible mediating effects, or control of data bias.

394. Assessment of the transmission blocking activity of antimalarial compounds by membrane feeding assays using natural Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte isolates from West-Africa.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

B Henry N, Soulama I, S Sermé S

Antimalarial drugs that can block the transmission of Plasmodium gametocytes to mosquito vectors would be highly beneficial for malaria elimination efforts. Identifying transmission-blocking drugs currently relies on evaluation of their activity against gametocyte-producing laboratory parasite strains and would benefit from a testing pipeline with genetically diverse field isolates. The aims of this study were to develop a pipeline to test drugs against P. falciparum gametocyte field isolates and to evaluate the transmission-blocking activity of a set of novel compounds. Two assays were designed so they could identify both the overall transmission-blocking activity of a number of marketed and experimental drugs by direct membrane feeding assays (DMFA), and then also discriminate between those that are active against the gametocytes (gametocyte killing or sterilizing) or those that block development in the mosquito (sporontocidal). These DMFA assays used venous blood samples from naturally infected Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte carriers and locally reared Anopheles gambiae s.s. mosquitoes. Overall transmission-blocking activity was assessed following a 24 hour incubation of compound with gametocyte infected blood (TB-DMFA). Sporontocidal activity was evaluated following addition of compound directly prior to feeding, without incubation (SPORO-DMFA); Gametocyte viability was retained during 24-hour incubation at 37°C when gametocyte infected red blood cells were reconstituted in RPMI/serum. Methylene-blue, MMV693183, DDD107498, atovaquone and P218 showed potent transmission-blocking activity in the TB-DMFA, and both atovaquone and the novel antifolate P218 were potent inhibitors of sporogonic development in the SPORO-DMA. This work establishes a pipeline for the integral use of field isolates to assess the transmission-blocking capacity of antimalarial drugs to block transmission that should be validated in future studies.

395. Description and genome-wide analysis of Profundicola chukchiensis gen. nov., sp. nov., marine bacteria isolated from bottom sediments of the Chukchi Sea.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Romanenko L, Otstavnykh N, Kurilenko V

396. Primary health care utilization in the first year after arrival by refugee sponsorship model in Ontario, Canada: A population-based cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Wanigaratne S, Rayner J, Glazier RH

BACKGROUND: Canada's approach to refugee resettlement includes government sponsorship, a pioneering private sponsorship model and a third blended approach. Refugees are selected and supported differently in each approach including healthcare navigation. Little is known about how well private sponsors facilitate primary care navigation and whether this changed during the large-scale 2015 Syrian resettlement initiative characterized by civic and healthcare systems engagement. METHODS AND FINDINGS: Population-based cohort study of resettled refugees arriving in Ontario between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2017, with one-year follow-up, using linked health and demographic administrative databases. We evaluated associations of resettlement model (GARs, Privately Sponsored Refugees [PSRs], and Blended-Visa Office Referred [BVORs]) by era of arrival (pre-Syrian and Syrian era) and by country cohort, on measures of primary care (PC) navigation using adjusted Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression. There were 34,591 (pre-Syrian) and 24,757 (Syrian era) resettled refugees, approximately half of whom were GARs. Compared with the reference group pre-Syrian era PSRs, Syrian PSRs had slightly earlier PC visits (mean = 116 days [SD = 90]) (adjusted hazard ratios [aHR] = 1.19, 95% CI 1.14-1.23). Syrian GARs (mean = 72 days [SD = 65]) and BVORs (mean = 73 days [SD = 76]) had their first PC visit sooner than pre-Syrian era PSRs (mean = 149 days [SD = 86]), with respective aHRs 2.27, 95% CI 2.19-2.35 and 1.89, 95% CI 1.79-1.99. Compared to pre-Syrian PSRs, Syrian GARs and BVORs had much greater odds of a CHC visit (adjusted odds ratios 14.69, 95% CI 12.98-16.63 and 14.08, 95% 12.05-16.44 respectively) and Syrian PSRs had twice the odds of a CHC visit. CONCLUSIONS: Less timely primary care and lower odds of a CHC visit among PSRs in the first year may be attributed to selection factors and gaps in sponsors' knowledge of healthcare navigation. Improved primary care navigation outcomes in the Syrian era suggests successful health systems engagement.

397. Imaging feature-based clustering of financial time series.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Wu J, Zhang Z, Tong R

398. The association of women's experience of abuse in childhood with depression during pregnancy and the role of emotional support as a moderator.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Kim YM, Oh R, Cho SH

399. The unstudied effects of wording and answer formats in the analysis of impartiality in public service provision.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Martín JC, Moreira P, Román C.

400. Ethical considerations in the prehospital treatment of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: A multi-centre, qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Milling L, Nielsen DS, Kjær J

401. Study protocol for FUTURES: Testing a web-based reproductive health education program for adolescent and young adult males with sickle cell disease.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Colton ZA, Stanek CJ, Liles SM

402. Acceptance of and hesitancy about COVID-19 vaccination among nursing students in clinical practice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Kim S, Lee J, Yang H

403. The role of perceived threat and self-efficacy in the use of Insecticide Treated Bednets (ITNs) to prevent malaria among pregnant women in Tororo District, Uganda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Kakaire CN, Christofides N.

404. Learning effect on an isokinetic knee strength test protocol among male adolescent athletes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Costa DC, Valente-Dos-Santos J, Celis-Moreno JM

405. Primary spontaneous pneumomediastinum: 237 cases in a single-center experience over a 10-year period and assessment of factors related with recurrence.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Yu MH, Kim JK, Kim T

406. NIH funding for patents that contribute to market exclusivity of drugs approved 2010-2019 and the public interest protections of Bayh-Dole.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Ledley FD, Cleary EG.

Previous studies have shown that National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding contributed >$187 billion for basic or applied research related to the 356 drugs approved 2010-2019. This analysis asks how much of this funding led to patents cited as providing market exclusivity, patents that would be subject to the provisions of the Bayh-Dole Act that promote and protect the public interest. The method involves identifying published research in PubMed related to the approved drugs (applied research) or their targets (basic research). NIH-funded projects (grants) funding these publications and patents arising from these projects were both identified in RePORT. Patents cited as providing market exclusivity were identified in DrugPatentWatch (which incorporates FDA Orange Book). NIH funded basic or applied research related to all 313 FDA-approved drugs 2010-2019 with at least one patent in DrugPatentWatch. This research comprised 350 thousand publications (9% applied research; 91% basic research) supported by 341 thousand fiscal years (project years) of NIH funding and $164 billion in NIH project year costs (17% applied research; 83% basic research). These NIH projects also produced 22,360 patents, 119 of which were cited in DrugPatentWatch as protecting 34/313 drugs. These patents were associated with 769 project years of NIH funding (0.23% total) and project year costs of $0.95 billion (0.59% total). Overall, only 1.5% of total NIH funding for applied research and 0.38% of total NIH funding for basic research was associated with patents in DrugPatentWatch. This analysis shows that very little of the NIH funding for research that contributes to new drug approvals leads to patents that provide market exclusivity and are subject to the provisions of the Bayh-Dole Act that promote the public interest in practical applications of the research, reasonable use and pricing, and a return on this public sector investment. This suggests that the Bayh-Dole Act is limited in its ability to protect the public interest in the pharmaceutical innovations driven by NIH-funded research.

407. La Sassa cave: Isotopic evidence for Copper Age and Bronze Age population dynamics in Central Italy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Romboni M, Arienzo I, Di Vito MA

408. The efficacy and safety of 0.01% atropine alone or combined with orthokeratology for children with myopia: A meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Wang Z, Wang P, Jiang B

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 0.01% atropine alone and in combination with orthokeratology for myopia control using a meta-analysis. METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched. We included eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs, and retrospective cohort studies, published up to August 1, 2022. We calculated the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for all outcomes and plotted them in forest plots. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included; 4 and 11 in the 0.01% atropine monotherapy and atropine-orthokeratology (AOK) groups, respectively. Compared with orthokeratology (OK) alone, 0.01% atropine alone had similar effects on slowing the axial elongation (WMD: -0.00 mm; 95% CI: -0.05-0.04, p<0.31), while AOK significantly lowered axial growth. Moreover, the baseline myopic degree and duration of treatment were influential for the change in axial elongation (WMD: -0.12 mm; 95% CI: -0.17--0.07, p = 0.00001 and WMD: -0.11 mm; 95% CI: -0.15--0.108, p<0.00001, respectively). Additionally, the AOK may reduce the change rate of the spherical equivalent refraction and the accommodation amplitude (WMD: -0.13 D; 95% CI: 0.07-0.19, p<0.001 and WMD: -1.08 mm; 95% CI: -1.73--0.43, p<0.0001, respectively), and cause a slight increase in the diameter of the pupil (WMD: 0.56 mm; 95% CI: 0.43-0.70, p = 0.007). No significant differences in the uncorrected distant visual acuity, best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, tear film break-up time, lipid layer thickness, and corneal endothelial cell density were found between the OK and AOK groups. CONCLUSION: In slowing the axial elongation, 0.01% atropine alone and OK alone have similar effects, while AOK is more effective than OK alone in slowing down the axial elongation. Furthermore, the baseline degree of myopia and treatment duration may affect changes in axial elongation.

409. Transparency of COVID-19-related research: A meta-research study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Sofi-Mahmudi A, Raittio E, Uribe SE.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to assess the adherence to five transparency practices (data availability, code availability, protocol registration and conflicts of interest (COI), and funding disclosures) from open access Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) related articles. METHODS: We searched and exported all open access COVID-19-related articles from PubMed-indexed journals in the Europe PubMed Central database published from January 2020 to June 9, 2022. With a validated and automated tool, we detected transparent practices of three paper types: research articles, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and reviews. Basic journal- and article-related information were retrieved from the database. We used R for the descriptive analyses. RESULTS: The total number of articles was 258,678, of which we were able to retrieve full texts of 186,157 (72%) articles from the database Over half of the papers (55.7%, n = 103,732) were research articles, 10.9% (n = 20,229) were review articles, and less than one percent (n = 1,202) were RCTs. Approximately nine-tenths of articles (in all three paper types) had a statement to disclose COI. Funding disclosure (83.9%, confidence interval (CI): 81.7-85.8 95%) and protocol registration (53.5%, 95% CI: 50.7-56.3) were more frequent in RCTs than in reviews or research articles. Reviews shared data (2.5%, 95% CI: 2.3-2.8) and code (0.4%, 95% CI: 0.4-0.5) less frequently than RCTs or research articles. Articles published in 2022 had the highest adherence to all five transparency practices. Most of the reviews (62%) and research articles (58%) adhered to two transparency practices, whereas almost half of the RCTs (47%) adhered to three practices. There were journal- and publisher-related differences in all five practices, and articles that did not adhere to transparency practices were more likely published in lowest impact journals and were less likely cited. CONCLUSION: While most articles were freely available and had a COI disclosure, adherence to other transparent practices was far from acceptable. A much stronger commitment to open science practices, particularly to protocol registration, data and code sharing, is needed from all stakeholders.

410. Worldviews and the role of social values that underlie them.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Mifsud R, Sammut G.

411. SuperNatural inhibitors to reverse multidrug resistance emerged by ABCB1 transporter: Database mining, lipid-mediated molecular dynamics, and pharmacokinetics study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Ibrahim MAA, Abdeljawaad KAA, Abdelrahman AHM

412. Portable digital devices for paediatric height and length measurement: A scoping review and target product profile matching analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Soller T, Huang S, Horiuchi S

BACKGROUND: Routine anthropometry of children, including length/height measurement, is an essential component of paediatric clinical assessments. UNICEF has called for the accelerated development of novel, digital height/length measurement devices to improve child nutrition and growth surveillance programs. This scoping review aimed to identify all digital, portable height/length measurement devices in the literature or otherwise available internationally. We also assessed identified devices against the UNICEF Target Product Profile (TPP) to identify those of highest potential for clinical and public health use. METHOD: We searched four databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Global Health) and the grey literature between 1st January 1992 and 2nd February 2023. We looked for studies or reports on portable, digital devices for height or length measurement in children up to 18 years old. Citations were screened independently by two reviewers, with data extraction and quality assessment performed in duplicate and disagreements resolved. Devices were evaluated and scored against the 34 criteria of the UNICEF TPP. RESULTS: Twenty studies describing twelve height/length measurement devices were identified, most of which used prospective validation designs. Additional devices were found in the grey literature, but these did not report key performance data so were not included. Across the twelve devices, only 10 of 34 UNICEF criteria on average could be fully assessed. Six met UNICEF's ideal accuracy standard and one device met the minimum accuracy standard. The Leica DistoD2 device scored highest (41%), followed by Autoanthro in a controlled environment (33%) and GLM30 (32%). These devices may be high potential for further assessment and development, though further research is required. CONCLUSION: While 12 portable, digital devices exist for child height/length measurement, insufficient data are available to fully assess whether they meet the industry's needs. Although some devices show promise, further research is needed to test the validity of these devices in varying contexts, and continued development and commercialization will be important to improve reliability and precision of these devices for widespread use.

413. Individual and community-level factors associated with discrimination among women aged 15-49 years in Bangladesh: Evidence based on multiple indicator cluster survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Haq I, Sarker MMR, Chakma S.

BACKGROUND: This research aimed to examine the factors at both the individual and community levels that are linked to discrimination experienced by women aged 15-49 in Bangladesh. METHODS: The relevant data was taken from the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey in Bangladesh. The risk factors for discrimination against women in Bangladesh were determined using multilevel logistic regression models. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of discrimination against women was found to be 10.4% (95% CI: 10.1-10.6). Based on the final model (Model 1V), at the individual level higher odds of discrimination were observed among women from poor (AOR:1.21,95%CI: 1.12-1.32) and middle income households (AOR:1.12, 95%CI:1.02-1.22) compared to those from rich households etc. Women who have never used ICT were 1.27 times (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.07-1.51) higher odds of discrimination when compared with women who were ICT exposed. Respondents who married before 18 years 10% more likely to (AOR = 1.10, 95% CI:1.02-1.19) discriminated than women married aged 18 years old or above. Women from urban communities were 15% less likely to experience discrimination than their rural counterparts. In comparison to the Sylhet Division, women in the Barisal, Chattogram, Dhaka, Khulna Mymensingh, Rajshahi, and Rangpur Divisions were respectively 3.02, 1.84, 1.68, 2.06, 4.97, 4.06, and 1.74 times more likely to experience discrimination. CONCLUSION: Findings revealed that various individual-level factors such as wealth index, CEB, ICT exposure, marital status, functional difficulty, age, women's happiness, magazine and radio exposure, age at marriage, current contraceptive use, polygamy, husband beating, place of attack, and household head age were found to have a significant association with women discrimination. Community-level factors such as residence and division were also found to have a notable impact on discrimination. Policymakers should incorporate substantial components targeting both individual and community levels into intervention programs with the goal of raising awareness about women's discrimination.

414. A network pharmacology approach to decipher the total flavonoid extract of Dracocephalum Moldavica L. in the treatment of cerebral ischemia- reperfusion injury.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Hu X, Mola Y, Su WL

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is a major injury that seriously endangers human health and is characterized by high mortality and high disability. The total flavonoid extract of Dracocephalum moldavica L.(TFDM) in the treatment of CIRI has been proved by clinical practice. But the mechanism for the treatment of CIRI by TFDM has not been systematically revealed. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The active compounds contained in TFDM were screened by literature mining and pharmacokinetic parameters, and the targets related to CIRI were collected by searching Drugbank, Genecards and OMIM databases. Cytoscape software was used to construct the protein interaction network of TFDM for the prevention and treatment of CIRI. Geneontology and signal pathway enrichment were analyzed. The key target pathway network of TFDM compounds was constructed and verified by pharmacological experiment in vitro. RESULTS: 21 active components were screened, 158 potential drug targets for the prevention and treatment of CIRI were obtained, 53 main targets were further screened in the protein-protein interaction network, and 106 signal pathways, 76 biological processes, 26 cell components and 50 molecular functions were enriched (P<0.05). Through the compound-target-pathway network, the key compounds that play a role in the prevention and treatment of CIRI, such as acacetin, apigenin and other flavonoids, as well as the corresponding key targets and key signal pathways, such as AKT1, SRC and EGFR were obtained. TFDM significantly decreased LDH, MDA levels and increased the NO activity levels in CIRI. Further studies have shown that TFDM increases the number of SRC proteins, and TFDM also increases p-AKT/ AKT. Molecular docking results showed that acacetin-7-O (- 6''-acetyl) -glucopyranoside, acacetin7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, apigenin-7-O-β-D-galactoside respectively had good affinity for SRC protein. Acacetin-7-O (- 6''-acetyl) -glucopyranoside,acacetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, acacetin7-O-β-D-glucopyranoside had good affinity for AKT1 protein, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our research showed that TFDM had the characteristics of multi-component, multi-target and multi-channel in the treatment of CIRI. The potential mechanism may be associated with the following signaling pathways:1) the signaling pathways of VEGF/SRC, which promote angiogenesis, 2) the signaling pathways of PI3K/AKT, which inhibit apoptosis, and 3) acacetin-7-O (- 6''-acetyl) -glucopyranoside is expected to be used as a candidate monomer component for natural drugs for further development.

415. Culicoides jiangchengensis, a new species of the subgenus Sinocoides (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) based on integrative taxonomy from China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

He Y, Meng J, Li N

416. Digital literacy and farmers' entrepreneurial behavior-Empirical analysis based on CHFS2019 micro data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Bai Q, Chen H, Zhou J

417. "My brain freezes and I am blocked again": The subjective experience of post-migration living difficulties influenced by complex posttraumatic stress disorder of Afghan asylum seekers and refugees in Austria.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Schiess-Jokanovic J, Gösling-Steirer C, Kantor V

BACKGROUND: Potentially traumatic experiences and post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs) undoubtedly leave marks on mental health and psychosocial functioning. While PMLDs are recognised as a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (described together here as C/PTSD), recent investigations have found that C/PTSD symptoms might also influence the experience of PMLDs. The subjective experience of and coping with PMLDs in the context of C/PTSD symptoms has not yet been explored. METHODS: Semi-structured, interpreter-assisted interviews exploring the subjective experience of post-migration living difficulties were conducted with treatment-seeking Afghan refugees and asylum seekers (N = 24) and transcribed verbatim. Participants were screened using the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) and allocated to a C/PTSD group or non-C/PTSD group. We analysed the qualitative interviews using content analysis and then compared the results of the two groups. RESULTS: Over half of the participants (58.3%) met the criteria for C/PTSD. While the two groups addressed numerous similar themes, the C/PTSD group more frequently mentioned themes associated with C/PTSD symptoms (e.g., intrusions, avoidance, sleep disturbances, affective dysregulation) that influenced their responses to PMLDs. The non-C/PTSD group more often experienced positive emotions such as gratitude and optimism, and showed more active, solution-oriented behaviour as well as positive self-verbalisation. CONCLUSION: To achieve a deeper understanding of PMLDs, post-traumatic psychopathology should be taken into account, as C/PTSD symptoms influence the experience of and coping with PMLDs. The specifics of individual experiences need to be considered in order to promote adaptive coping with PMLDs and to set individual trauma-focused and transdiagnostic treatment targets. In addition, psychological interventions should incorporate psychoeducation to improve the understanding of the impact of C/PTSD on the current experience of PMLDs.

418. The Inventory of Nonordinary Experiences (INOE): Evidence of validity in the United States and India.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Taves A, Ihm E, Wolf M

419. Overexpression of TCP9-like gene enhances salt tolerance in transgenic soybean.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Zhang Z, Zhao Y, Chen Y

420. A multidisciplinary study on the social customs of the Tang Empire in the Medieval Ages.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Zhao D, Chen Y, Xie G

421. Genomic alterations involved in fluoroquinolone resistance development in Staphylococcus aureus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Huynh TQ, Tran VN, Thai VC

422. "The algorithm will screw you": Blame, social actors and the 2020 A Level results algorithm on Twitter.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Heaton D, Nichele E, Clos J

423. Risky behavior during stair descent for young adults: Differences in men versus women.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Cho H, Arnold AJ, Cui C

424. Optimal planning and allocation of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles charging stations using a novel hybrid optimization technique.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Subramaniam A, Ravi Singh LRS.

425. Caregivers' perception and acceptance of malaria vaccine for Children.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Bam V, Mohammed A, Kusi-Amponsah A

BACKGROUND: Malaria is a disease of public health concern and in endemic areas, pregnant women and children under-five years are vulnerable to the disease. The introduction of the pilot program of a malaria vaccine for children under-five years in Ghana is an intervention to further reduce the burden of the disease. However, the availability of the vaccine does not necessarily mean it will be accepted by the public. This is why the perceptions and acceptance of the vaccine among mothers of these children are worth exploring. METHOD: A descriptive qualitative study, with the aid of a semi-structured interview guide, was utilized in collecting data from ten (10) purposively sampled mothers whose children were taking the malaria vaccine in a municipality in Ghana. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. The audiotaped interviews were transcribed verbatim and inductively analyzed into themes describing their perceptions and acceptance. RESULTS: Participants were aged between 22 and 40 years with eight (8) of them married. Three themes emerged from the study. "Awareness of malaria and the malaria vaccine" (1), "Insight into the malaria vaccine" (2), where participants communicated the beliefs and judgments formed on the vaccine, its benefits, and the need for vaccinating their children. With the third theme "Reaction to vaccine" (3), participants communicated their motivation to vaccinate their children and their concerns about the administration of the vaccine. CONCLUSION: The caregivers had positive perceptions about the malaria vaccine for children, with fewer hospital admissions and saving money as some benefits. Healthworkers played a significant role in influencing the acceptance of the vaccine. However, the fear of the unknown concerning the side effects of the vaccine serve as a possible barrier to recommending the vaccine to other caregivers. Health education must also address the fears of caregivers in order to enhance recommending the malaria vaccine to other caregivers and promote uptake of the vaccination.

426. Global depression in breast cancer patients: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Javan Biparva A, Raoofi S, Rafiei S

427. Development of an automatic device performing chest compression and external defibrillation: An animal-based pilot study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Roh YI, Jung WJ, Im HY

BACKGROUND: Automatic chest compression devices (ACCDs) can promote high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and are widely used worldwide. Early application of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) along with high-quality CPR is crucial for favorable outcomes in patients with cardiac arrest. Here, we developed an automated CPR (A-CPR) apparatus that combines ACCD and AED and evaluated its performance in a pilot animal-based study. METHODS: Eleven pigs (n = 5, A-CPR group; n = 6, ACCD CPR and AED [conventional CPR (C-CPR)] group) were enrolled in this study. After 2 min observation without any treatment following ventricular fibrillation induction, CPR with a 30:2 compression/ventilation ratio was performed for 6 min, mimicking basic life support (BLS). A-CPR or C-CPR was applied immediately after BLS, and resuscitation including chest compression and defibrillation, was performed following a voice prompt from the A-CPR device or AED. Hemodynamic parameters, including aortic pressure, right atrial pressure, coronary perfusion pressure, carotid blood flow, and end-tidal carbon dioxide, were monitored during resuscitation. Time variables, including time to start rhythm analysis, time to charge, time to defibrillate, and time to subsequent chest compression, were also measured. RESULTS: There were no differences in baseline characteristics, except for arterial carbon dioxide pressure (39 in A-CPR vs. 33 in C-CPR, p = 0.034), between the two groups. There were no differences in hemodynamic parameters between the groups. However, time to charge (28.9 ± 5.6 s, A-CPR group; 47.2 ± 12.4 s, C-CPR group), time to defibrillate (29.1 ± 7.2 s, A-CPR group; 50.5 ± 12.3 s, C-CPR group), and time to subsequent chest compression (32.4 ± 6.3 s, A-CPR group; 56.3 ± 10.7 s, C-CPR group) were shorter in the A-CPR group than in the C-CPR group (p = 0.015, 0.034 and 0.02 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: A-CPR can provide effective chest compressions and defibrillation, thereby shortening the time required for defibrillation.

428. The impact of logistic environment and spatial spillover on agricultural economic growth: An empirical study based on east, central and west China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Li X, Jiang J, Cifuentes-Faura J.

BACKGROUND: To vigorously promote the integrated development and mutual adaptation of agriculture and logistics is an important way to realize agricultural modernization and rural revitalization. Along with the policy support of agricultural industry chain and the steady rise of the demand for agricultural products market, the total amount of agricultural product logistics continues to increase, and the growth rate remains stable. With the booming development of "Internet + agriculture" and e-commerce platform, agricultural logistic market welcomes a new round of development opportunities, reaching several trillion yuan. Compared with the developed countries, our agricultural product logistics is still far behind. At present, only 15% of vegetables and fruits and 30% of fresh meat have professional logistic transportation, while most of the rest are still in the state of local and primitive. The gap of logistic environment construction and logistic elements determines the difference in final benefit of agricultural products. The purpose of this study is to find out the influence of logistic elements on regional agricultural economic growth, and whether the influence between neighboring regions presents "the same prosperity", "the same loss" or "sharing weal and woe". METHODS: Based on the panel data of the statistical yearbook of 31 provinces in China from 2005 to 2020, the spatial Durbin model was constructed under the spatial weight matrix of economic distance and economic geographical distance to conduct empirical analysis, and the internal factors of logistics industry, factor spillover effect and its impact on agricultural economic growth were studied. RESULTS: Results showed that: (1) considering economic distance factor, the spatial coefficient of the time-fixed effects model passed the significance test in eastern China. Considering economic geographic distance factors, the individual and double fixed effect models passed the significance test in central China, and all models passed the significance test in western China. (2) From the perspective of logistic infrastructure, AVLFA, HM, TN and RM had a positive effect on the growth of agricultural economy in eastern China, but LIAV is on the contrary. AVLFA had a positive effect on agricultural economic growth, but TN was on the contrary in central China. In western China, LIAV and TN promoted agricultural economy while HM and RM held back it. From the perspective of the volume of logistics activity, both eastern and central regions did not pass the significance test, but FA was tested by the double fixed effect model and showed negative in western China. From the perspective of control variables, FU, AO and PT all promoted agricultural economy in eastern China, and FU and AO did the same in central and western China. PT was invalid in central regions and hindered agricultural economy in western China, which was different. CONCLUSION: From the perspective of spatial spillover effect decomposition, the eastern region presents "one prosperity and all prosperity, and sharing weal and woe", while the central and western regions present "one prosperity and all prosperity, and one lost and all lost". At last suggestions as formulating the overall plan for the development of regional logistics, paying attention to regional differences and promoting coordinated development of logistics and agriculture in light of local conditions, and paying attention to the spatial spillover effect of elements were put forward.

429. Hospital length of stay throughout bed pathways and factors affecting this time: A non-concurrent cohort study of Colombia COVID-19 patients and an unCoVer network project.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Ruiz Galvis LM, Pérez Aguirre CA, Pérez Bedoya JP

430. Inequality in electricity consumption and economic growth: Evidence from a small area estimation study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Nguyen CV, Nguyen KD, Tran TQ.

431. Lecturers' readiness for EMI in Malaysia higher education.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Lo YY, Othman J.

432. A new specimen of Solnhofia parsonsi from the Upper Jurassic (Kimmeridgian) Plattenkalk deposits of Painten (Bavaria, Germany) and comments on the relationship between limb taphonomy and habitat ecology in fossil turtles.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Augustin FJ, Rabi M, Spindler F

433. Cost-effectiveness of repeat delayed imaging for spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Shang W, Jin H, Vastani A

434. Burden and factors associated with ongoing transmission of soil-transmitted helminths infections among the adult population: A community-based cross-sectional survey in Muleba district, Tanzania.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Zacharia F, Silvestri V, Mushi V

BACKGROUND: In Tanzania, school-based Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaigns have been the main strategy for the prevention and control of Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) infection. Adults are not part of the program and could remain as the reservoir of infection, favoring continuity in transmission. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) issues and slow progress in community awareness promotion campaigns contribute to the persistence of STH as public health issue among target populations notwithstanding the achievements of the control interventions. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the current prevalence and the risk factors associated with ongoing transmission of STH infection among adults in Muleba District, Tanzania. METHODOLOGY: A household-based quantitative cross-sectional study was carried out among 552 adults in Muleba district. Through a quantitative interviewer-administered questionnaire, information was registered related to socio-demographic characteristics, level of knowledge on the disease, and WaSH factors. The prevalence of STH and estimation of its intensity were assessed by analyzing stool samples through formol-ether concentration and the Kato-Katz technique. Descriptive statistics was used to summarise data; logistic regression to determine the association between STH infection and socio-demographic and WaSH factors. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 552 adults were included in the study; 50.7% (280/552) were female. The median age was of 30 years, ranging from 18 to 73 years. A prevalence of 9.1% (50/552) for STH infection was reported; the prevalence of Hookworm Spp., Ascaris lumbricoides, and Trichuris trichiura was 7.43%, 0.91%, and 0.72%, respectively. The factors significantly associated with STH infection were farming (aOR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.45-7.70), the habit of not wearing shoes in general (aOR = 5.11, 95% CI: 1.55-16.87), and during garden activities (aOR = 4.89, 95% CI: 1.47-16.28). CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: We observed an aggregated prevalence of STH infections (Ancylostoma duodenale, Trichuris trichiura, and Ascaris lumbricoides) of 9.1% among the adult population, indicating a decreasing prevalence but ongoing transmission. Integrated management is needed to address practices contributing to ongoing transmission.

435. Habitat isolation interacts with top-down and bottom-up processes in a seagrass ecosystem.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Carroll EW, Freestone AL.

Habitat loss is accelerating at unprecedented rates, leading to the emergence of smaller, more isolated habitat remnants. Habitat isolation adversely affects many ecological processes independently, but little is known about how habitat isolation may interact with ecosystem processes such as top-down (consumer-driven) and bottom-up (resource-driven) effects. To investigate the interactive influence of habitat isolation, resource availability and consumer distribution and impact on community structure, we tested two hypotheses using invertebrate and algal epibionts on temperate seagrasses, an ecosystem of ecological and conservation importance. First, we hypothesized that habitat isolation will change the structure of the seagrass epibiont community, and isolated patches of seagrass will have lower epibiont biomass and different epibiont community composition than contiguous meadows. Second, we hypothesized that habitat isolation would mediate top-down (i.e., herbivory) and bottom-up (i.e., nutrient enrichment) control for algal epibionts. We used observational studies in natural seagrass patches and experimental artificial seagrass to examine three levels of habitat isolation. We further manipulated top-down and bottom-up processes in artificial seagrass through consumer reductions and nutrient additions, respectively. We indeed found that habitat isolation of seagrass patches decreased epibiont biomass and modified epibiont community composition. This pattern was largely due to dispersal limitation of invertebrate epibionts that resulted in a decline in their abundance and richness in isolated patches. Further, habitat isolation reduced consumer abundances, weakening top-down control of algal epibionts in isolated seagrass patches. Nutrient additions, however, reversed this pattern, and allowed a top-down effect on algal richness to emerge in isolated habitats, demonstrating a complex interaction between patch isolation and top-down and bottom-up processes. Habitat isolation may therefore shape the relative importance of central processes in ecosystems, leading to changes in community composition and food web structure in marine habitats.

436. Characteristics of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria patients in Brazil: A retrospective administrative claims database analysis of PNH patients in Brazilian public healthcare system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Menosi Gualandro SF, Salvino MA, Bassolli de Oliveira Alves L

INTRODUCTION: Few studies have reported the profile of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and their care in the Brazilian health system. OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients with PNH in the Brazilian public health system including procedures performed, associated comorbidities and visits to health care professionals. METHODS: In a real-world observational, retrospective, population-based cohort study, anonymized secondary data provided by the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) were analyzed. Patients were considered eligible if they had at least one procedure coded with the ICD-10 code D59.5 from January 1, 2008 to December 30, 2018. RESULTS: In total, 675 individual PNH patients were identified (52.4% female; prevalence of 1:237,000 people). Around 15.8% of the patients included had myelodysplastic syndrome and about half of the sample had other aplastic anemias and/or other bone marrow failure syndromes. Portal vein thrombosis (I82 ICD code) was reported in 4.3% of patients. Regarding hospitalizations, 263 individual PNH patients had 416 inpatient admissions with the ICD code for PNH (D59.5) on admission. Twelve deaths occurred during the study period, of which two had the PNH ICD code related with the cause of death, while another three deaths were associated with acquired hemolytic anemia (D59.9), unspecified aplastic anemia (D61.9) and acute respiratory failure (J96.0), respectively. CONCLUSION: Despite its limitations, this statistical analysis of data extracted from DATASUS reasonably describes PNH patients in Brazil and its variations across different regions of the country. Comorbidities frequently associated with PNH such as portal vein thrombosis were not as common in our study, but it is assumed that several thrombotic events at specific sites were coded under the broader I82 ICD code. The frequency of visits to different health professionals, including hematologists, increased after the diagnosis of PNH. Among hospitalized PNH patients, the mortality rate was 4.5%.

437. An early warning model of type 2 diabetes risk based on POI visit history and food access management.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Xie H, Li D, Wang Y

438. Behavioural plasticity in activity and sexual interactions in a social lizard at high environmental temperatures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Rossi N, Chiaraviglio M, Cardozo G.

Sexual selection often shapes social behavioural activities, such as movement in the environment to find possible partners, performance of displays to signal dominance and courtship behaviours. Such activities may be negatively influenced by increasing temperatures, especially in ectotherms, because individuals either have to withstand the unfavourable condition or are forced to allocate more time to thermoregulation by increasing shelter seeking behaviour. Thus, they "miss" opportunities for social and reproductive interactions. Moreover, behavioural displays of ectotherms closely depend on temperature; consequently, mate choice behaviours may be disrupted, ultimately modifying sexual selection patterns. Therefore, it would be interesting to elucidate how increasing temperatures associated with global warming may influence activity and social interactions in the species' natural habitat and, specifically how high temperatures may modify intersexual interactions. Consequently, our aim was to explore differences in the daily pattern of social interactions in an ectotherm model, Tropidurus spinulosus, in two thermally different habitats and to determine how high temperatures modify mate choice. High environmental temperatures were found to be associated with a bimodal pattern in daily activity, which was closely linked to the daily variations in the thermal quality of the habitat; whereas the pattern and frequency of social displays showed less plasticity. The time allocated to mate choice generally decreased with increasing temperature since individuals increased the use of thermal refuges; this result supports the hypothesis of "missed opportunities". Moreover, at high temperatures, both sexes showed changes in mate selection dynamics, with females possibly "rushing" mate choice and males showing an increase in intermale variability of reproductive displays. In our ectotherm model, plastic adjustments in the behavioural activity pattern induced by high temperatures, plus the modification of the displays during courtship may ultimately modify mate choice patterns and sexual selection dynamics.

439. Molecular phylogeny of the Orthalicoidea land snails: Further support and surprises.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Salvador RB, Silva FS, Cavallari DC

440. Can adults learn L2 grammar after prolonged exposure under incidental conditions?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Kenanidis P, Dąbrowska E, Llompart M

While late second language (L2) learning is assumed to be largely explicit, there is evidence that adults are able to acquire grammar under incidental exposure conditions, and that the acquisition of this knowledge may be implicit in nature. Here, we revisit the question of whether adults can learn grammar incidentally and investigate whether word order and morphology are susceptible to incidental learning to the same degree. In experiment 1, adult English monolinguals were exposed to an artificial language (Kepidalo) that had case marking and variable word order: a canonical Subject-Object-Verb order and a non-canonical Object-Subject-Verb. In a five-session online study, participants received vocabulary training while being incidentally exposed to grammar, and completed a series of picture-selection and grammaticality judgment tasks assessing grammatical knowledge. Despite extensive exposure to input, and although performance on vocabulary increased significantly across sessions, learners' grammatical comprehension showed little improvement over time, and this was limited to Subject-Object-Verb sentences only. Furthermore, participants were better at detecting word order than case marking violations in the grammaticality judgment tasks. Experiment 2 further increased the amount of incidental exposure whilst examining native speakers of German, which exhibits higher morphological richness. Testing was followed by a post-test metalinguistic awareness questionnaire. Although greater learning effects were observed, participants continued to have difficulties with case marking. The findings also demonstrated that language outcomes were modulated by learners' level of metalinguistic awareness. Taken together, the results of the two experiments underscore adult learners' difficulty with case marking and point towards the presence of a threshold in incidental L2 grammar learning, which appears to be tightly linked to prior first language experience. In addition, our findings continue to highlight the facilitative role of conscious awareness on L2 outcomes.

441. Matters of development and experience: Evaluation of dog and human emotional expressions by children and adults.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Törnqvist H, Höller H, Vsetecka K

442. A qualitative analysis of women's postnatal experiences of breastfeeding supports during the perinatal period in Ireland.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Lawlor N, Prihodova L, Byrne D

443. School closures significantly reduced arrests of black and latinx urban youth.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Simes JT, Cowger TL, Jahn JL.

BACKGROUND & METHODS: Youth of color are surveilled and arrested by police at higher rates than their White peers, contributing to racial inequities across the life course and in population health. Previous research points to schools as an increasingly relevant site for youth criminalization, but existing studies emphasize within-school mechanisms, with limited analysis of policing in surrounding school areas. To fill this gap, we study changes in police arrests of youth after initial COVID-19 school closures in 2020 across four US cities overall and in relation to public school locations. We analyze geocoded arrest records and use interrupted time series negative binomial regression models with city and month fixed effects to estimate change in weekly arrest rates among White, Black, and Latinx youth. We estimate arrest densities within school areas before and after school closures using spatial buffers of 300 feet. RESULTS: In the immediate weeks and months following COVID-19 pandemic school closures, youth arrest rates fell dramatically and with lasting impacts compared to other age groups. During the period of remote learning, weekly youth arrest rates declined by 54.0% compared to youth arrests rates in 2019, adjusting for city and seasonality (Incident Rate Ratio 0.46, 95% CI: 0.41, 0.52). We estimate Black youth weekly arrests fell from 43.6 to 16.8 per 100,000, vs. 4.6 to 2.2 per 100,000 among White youth. However, Black youth arrest rates during the remote learning period were still nearly 5 times that of White youth pre-pandemic. We also find that youth arrest rates declined during two school closure periods: at the start of the pandemic in 2020 and during Summer 2019. A spatial analysis shows Black and Latinx youth arrest densities in the surrounding 300 feet of K-12 schools were at least 15 and 8.5 times that of White youth, respectively, in both pre- and remote-learning periods. CONCLUSIONS: Black and Latinx youth face a higher likelihood of being arrested near a school than do White youth and older age groups, and racial inequities in arrests remains after school closures. Our findings show school closures significantly reduced arrests of urban youth of color, and policies addressing youth criminalization and structural racism should consider the joint spatial context of schools and policing. Although school closures may have resulted in learning loss and harms to youth wellbeing, closures interrupted comparatively high levels of arrest for Black and Latinx youth.

444. Educational outcomes in childhood cancer survivors: A Scotland-wide record-linkage study of 766,217 schoolchildren.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Baughan N, Pell JP, Mackay DF

445. The resource team: A case study of a solitary confinement reform in Oregon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Cloud DH, Haney C, Augustine D

446. Circular RNA mediated gene regulation in human breast cancer: A bioinformatics analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Fiscon G, Funari A, Paci P.

447. How to optimize dust pollution control in opencast coal mines: Analysis of a joint social regulation model based on evolutionary game theory.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Lian X, Wang W, Zhang J.

The carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals drive innovation in pollution governance systems, unleashing the potential of social supervisory forces to achieve coordinated governance by multiple stakeholders. In order to improve dust pollution control in opencast coal mines, this study combines prospect theory with evolutionary game theory, analyzing the evolutionary game process of coordinated governance activities of coal mining enterprises, local regulators, and social camps in the management of dust pollution against the backdrop of national supervisions. The research indicates that the perceived value of dust pollution has a significant impact on the strategic choices of the three agents involved in the game. Coal mining enterprises tend to be risk averse, and by reducing the cost of dust pollution control and increasing the additional benefits of pollution control, it can promote pollution control behavior by coal mining enterprises. Local regulators are also risk averse, but not sensitive to risk benefits. Strengthening pollution subsidy incentives and environmental fines can help promote dust pollution control behavior by coal mining enterprises. However, increasing the strength of the rewards strategy is not conducive to local regulators' own regulatory responsibilities, and environmental fines have limited binding effects. The strategic choices of social camps' supervision have a restrictive effect on the strategic choices of coal mining enterprises and local regulators, promoting the evolution of equilibrium results in the direction of maximizing social benefits. When coal mining enterprises actively governance pollution, local regulators strictly regulated, and social camps do not monitor, the system reaches its optimal equilibrium state. The research results clarify the mechanism and specific effects of social supervision of opencast coal mine dust pollution control, guide the participation of the public in dust pollution control, and regulate the behavior strategies of coal mining enterprises and local regulators, providing the scientific basis for management.

448. Life history, nest longevity, sex ratio, and nest architecture of the fungus-growing ant Mycetosoritis hartmanni (Formicidae: Attina).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Mueller UG, Himler AG, Farrior CE.

449. Spontaneous urinary bladder regeneration after subtotal cystectomy increases YAP/WWTR1 signaling and downstream BDNF expression: Implications for smooth muscle injury responses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Aitken KJ, Yadav P, Sidler M

450. Genetic diversity and population structure of Vernonia amygdalina Del. in Uganda based on genome wide markers.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Nantongo JS, Odoi JB, Agaba H

451. An examination of psychometric properties of study quality assessment scales in meta-analysis: Rasch measurement model applied to the firefighter cancer literature.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Ahn S, Pinheiro PS, McClure LA

452. Different levels of hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes, their achieved mean HbA1c vs. all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Ooi SW, Yeh ST, Chang YH

453. Trenches reduce crop foraging by elephants: Lessons from Kibale National Park, Uganda for elephant conservation in densely settled rural landscapes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Rogers A, Treves A, Karamagi R

454. Dog breeds and conformations in the UK in 2019: VetCompass canine demography and some consequent welfare implications.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

O'Neill DG, McMillan KM, Church DB

INTRODUCTION: Growing concerns over health and welfare impacts from extreme phenotypes in dogs have created an urgent need for reliable demographic information on the national breed structures of dogs. METHODS: This study included all dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK during 2019 at practices participating in VetCompass. Demographic data on these dogs were analysed to report on the frequency of common breeds and also to report on conformation, bodyweight, sex and neuter associations with these breeds. RESULTS: The study included 2,237,105 dogs under UK veterinary care in 2019. Overall, 69.4% (n = 1,551,462) were classified as purebred, 6.7% (149,308) as designer-crossbred and 24.0% (536,335) as nondesigner-crossbred. Across 800 unique breed names, the most frequent breeds at any age were nondesigner-crossbred (n = 536,335, 24.0%), Labrador Retriever (154,222, 6.9%) and Jack Russell Terrier (101,294, 4.5%). Among 229,624 (10.3%) dogs aged under one year, the most frequent breeds were nondesigner-crossbred (n = 45,995, 20.0%), French Bulldog (16,036, 7.0%) and Cockapoo (14,321, 6.2%). Overall, based on breed characteristics, 17.6% (395,739) were classified as brachycephalic, 43.1% (969,403) as mesaticephalic and 8.3% (186,320) as dolichocephalic. Of 1,551,336 dogs that were classifiable based on breed, 52.6% (815,673) were chondrodystrophic. Of 1,462,925 dogs that were classifiable, there were 54.6% (n = 798,426) short haired, 32.6% (476,883) medium haired and 12.8% (186,934) long haired. Of 1,547,653 dogs that were classifiable for ear carriage, 24.5% (n = 379,581) were erect, 28.1% (434,273) were semi-erect, 19.7% (305,475) were v-shaped drop and 27.7% (428,324) were pendulous. Overall, there was a 1.09:1.00 ratio of male (n = 1,163,512; 52.2%) to female dogs (n = 1,067,552; 47.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Health and welfare issues linked to popular breeds with extreme phenotypes suggest that there is much work to do to help owners to make more welfare-friendly decisions when choosing which type of dog to own.

455. Integrated bioinformatics and statistical approach to identify the cmmon mlecular mchanisms of oesity that are linked to the development of two psychiatric disorders: Schizophrenia and major depressive disorder.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Islam MK, Islam MR, Rahman MH

Obesity is a chronic multifactorial disease characterized by the accumulation of body fat and serves as a gateway to a number of metabolic-related diseases. Epidemiologic data indicate that Obesity is acting as a risk factor for neuro-psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, major depression disorder and vice versa. However, how obesity may biologically interact with neurodevelopmental or neurological psychiatric conditions influenced by hereditary, environmental, and other factors is entirely unknown. To address this issue, we have developed a pipeline that integrates bioinformatics and statistical approaches such as transcriptomic analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and molecular mechanisms in patients with psychiatric disorders that are also common in obese patients. Biomarker genes expressed in schizophrenia, major depression, and obesity have been used to demonstrate such relationships depending on the previous research studies. The highly expressed genes identify commonly altered signalling pathways, gene ontology pathways, and gene-disease associations across disorders. The proposed method identified 163 significant genes and 134 significant pathways shared between obesity and schizophrenia. Similarly, there are 247 significant genes and 65 significant pathways that are shared by obesity and major depressive disorder. These genes and pathways increase the likelihood that psychiatric disorders and obesity are pathogenic. Thus, this study may help in the development of a restorative approach that will ameliorate the bidirectional relation between obesity and psychiatric disorder. Finally, we also validated our findings using genome-wide association study (GWAS) and whole-genome sequence (WGS) data from SCZ, MDD, and OBE. We confirmed the likely involvement of four significant genes both in transcriptomic and GWAS/WGS data. Moreover, we have performed co-expression cluster analysis of the transcriptomic data and compared it with the results of transcriptomic differential expression analysis and GWAS/WGS.

456. Aphid infestations reduce monarch butterfly colonization, herbivory, and growth on ornamental milkweed.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Mach BM, Long W, Daniels JC

457. Genetics of cannabis use in opioid use disorder: A genome-wide association and polygenic risk score study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Hillmer A, Chawar C, Lamri A

458. Determinants of parent-reported child mental health status in San Diego public schools during the height of the COVID-19 omicron outbreak: A serial cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

McDougal L, Majnoonian A, Stone G

459. Wild mouse gut microbiota limits initial tuberculosis infection in BALB/c mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Xie M, Tsai CY, McAdams ZL

460. Statistical modeling and evaluation of the impact of multiplicity classification thresholds on the COVID-19 pool testing accuracy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Cabrera OC, Alsehibani R.

461. Stakeholder collaboration for solid waste management in a small tourism island.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Koiwanit J, Filimonau V.

462. Trends in cancer-free working life expectancy based on health insurance data from Germany-Is the increase as strong as in working life expectancy?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Tetzlaff F, Nowossadeck E, Epping J

463. Incidence of chronic disease following smoking cessation treatment: A matched cohort study using linked administrative healthcare data in Ontario, Canada.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Baliunas D, Voci S, Selby P

Scarce evidence is available on the impact of real-world smoking cessation treatment on subsequent health outcomes, such as incidence of chronic disease. This study compared two cohorts of people that smoke-those that enrolled in a smoking cessation program, and a matched control that had not accessed the program-to assess the incidence of cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, hypertension, and major cardiovascular events over a 5-year follow-up period. We selected five sub-cohorts with matched treatment-control pairs in which both individuals were at risk of the five chronic diseases. Incident chronic disease from index date until December 31, 2017, was determined through linkage with routinely collected healthcare data. The cumulative incidence of each chronic disease was estimated using the cumulative incidence function with death as a competing risk. Gray's test was used to test for a difference between matched treatment and control groups in the chronic disease-specific cumulative incidence function over follow-up. Analyses were stratified by sex. Among females, cumulative incidence of diabetes was higher over follow-up for the treatment group (5-year cumulative incidence 5.8% vs 4.2%, p = 0.004), but did not differ for the four other chronic diseases. Among males, cumulative incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (12.2% vs 9.1%, p < 0.001) and diabetes (6.7% vs 4.8%, p < 0.001) both had higher 5-year cumulative incidence for the treated versus control groups but did not differ for the other three chronic diseases. We conclude that accessing primary-care based smoking cessation treatment is associated with increased incidence of diabetes for both sexes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for males (possibly due to under diagnosis prior to treatment), within 5 years of treatment. The associations detected require further research to understand causal relationships.

464. Wood decay fungi show enhanced biodeterioration of low-density polyethylene in the absence of wood in culture media.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Perera P, Herath H, Paranagama PA

465. Prefabricated concrete components combination schemes selection based on comprehensive benefits analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Wang S, Wang Z, Ruan Y.

466. Small molecule antagonists of PTPmu identified by artificial intelligence-based computational screening block glioma cell migration and growth.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Molyneaux K, Laggner C, Vincent J

467. Reassessing the terminal ballistic performance of trilobate and quadrilobate arrow points on Iron Age battlefields.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Pettigrew DB, Taylor W.

468. Electrophysiological markers for anticipatory processing of nocebo-augmented pain.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 26

Blythe JS, Peerdeman KJ, Veldhuijzen DS

469. Changes in context, typology and programme outcomes between early and recent periods of sex work among young female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Bhattacharjee P, Isac S, Musyoki H

INTRODUCTION: The sex work context and typology change continuously and influence HIV related risk and vulnerability for young female sex workers (YFSW). We sought to describe changes in the context and typology of sex work between the first (early) and past month (recent) of sex work among YFSW to inform HIV prevention programming for sex workers. METHODS: We used data from a cross-sectional survey (April-November 2015), administered using physical location-based sampling to 408 cis-women, aged 14-24 years, who self-identified as sex workers, in Mombasa, Kenya. We collected self-reported data on the early and recent month of sex work. The analysis focused on changes in a) sex work context and typology (defined by setting where sex workers practice sex work) where YFSW operated, b) primary typology of sex work, and c) HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed primary typology, within the early and recent month of sex work. We analysed the data using a) SPSS27.0 and excel; b) bivariate analysis and χ2 test; and c) bivariate logistic regression models. RESULTS: Overall, the median age of respondents was 20 years and median duration in sex work was 2 years. Higher proportion of respondents in the recent period managed their clients on their own (98.0% vs. 91.2%), had sex with >5 clients per week (39.3% vs.16.5%); were able to meet > 50% of living expenses through sex work income (46.8% vs. 18.8%); and experienced police violence in the past month (16.4% vs. 6.5%). YFSW reported multiple sex work typology in early and recent periods. Overall, 37.2% reported changing their primary typology. A higher proportion among those who used street/ bus stop typology, experienced police violence, or initiated sex work after 19 years of age in the early period reported a change. There was no difference in HIV programme outcomes among YFSW who changed typology vs. those who did not. CONCLUSIONS: The sex work context changes even in a short duration of two years. Hence, understanding these changes in the early period of sex work can allow for development of tailored strategies that are responsive to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of YFSW.

470. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester suppresses metastasis of breast cancer cells by inactivating FGFR1 via MD2.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Fang Q, Xin W, Chen L

471. The respiratory syncytial virus M2-2 protein is targeted for proteasome degradation and inhibits translation and stress granules assembly.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Scudero OB, Santiago VF, Palmisano G

472. Surging trends of infertility and its behavioural determinants in India.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Kundu S, Ali B, Dhillon P.

473. How innovation funding leads enterprises to engage in research and development: Small and medium enterprises' perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Sun H, Yang X, Tang X

474. Assessment of residual plant DNA in bulk milk for Grana Padano PDO production by a metabarcoding approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Pozzi A, Nazzicari N, Capoferri R

475. Costs and models used in the economic analysis of Total Knee Replacement (TKR): A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Gandhi N, Qadeer AS, Meher A

476. Attitudes and perceptions of undergraduate nursing students towards the nursing profession.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Neumbe IM, Ssenyonga L, Soita DJ

477. Continuous and early prediction of future moderate and severe Acute Kidney Injury in critically ill patients: Development and multi-centric, multi-national external validation of a machine-learning model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Alfieri F, Ancona A, Tripepi G

BACKGROUND: Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a major complication in patients admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU), causing both clinical and economic burden on the healthcare system. This study develops a novel machine-learning (ML) model to predict, with several hours in advance, the AKI episodes of stage 2 and 3 (according to KDIGO definition) acquired in ICU. METHODS: A total of 16'760 ICU adult patients from 145 different ICU centers and 3 different countries (US, Netherland, Italy) are retrospectively enrolled for the study. Every hour the model continuously analyzes the routinely-collected clinical data to generate a new probability of developing AKI stage 2 and 3, according to KDIGO definition, during the ICU stay. RESULTS: The predictive model obtains an auROC of 0.884 for AKI (stage 2/3 KDIGO) prediction, when evaluated on the internal test set composed by 1'749 ICU stays from US and EU centers. When externally tested on a multi-centric US dataset of 6'985 ICU stays and multi-centric Italian dataset of 1'025 ICU stays, the model achieves an auROC of 0.877 and of 0.911, respectively. In all datasets, the time between model prediction and AKI (stage 2/3 KDIGO) onset is at least of 14 hours after the first day of ICU hospitalization. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, a novel ML model for continuous and early AKI (stage 2/3 KDIGO) prediction is successfully developed, leveraging only routinely-available data. It continuously predicts AKI episodes during ICU stay, at least 14 hours in advance when the AKI episode happens after the first 24 hours of ICU admission. Its performances are validated in an extensive, multi-national and multi-centric cohort of ICU adult patients. This ML model overcomes the main limitations of currently available predictive models. The benefits of its real-world implementation enable an early proactive clinical management and the prevention of AKI episodes in ICU patients. Furthermore, the software could be directly integrated with IT system of the ICU.

478. Impact of focus of attention on aiming performance in the first-person shooter videogame Aim Lab.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Lamers James RG, O'Connor AR.

479. Patient experience in community health services and first choice for medical attention: A cross-sectional study in Wuhan, China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Tang C, Fang P, Bai X

OBJECTIVES: In China, it is up to the patients to choose between hospitals and primary care facilities to initiate their medical care. This study aimed to determine the association between patient experience with community health centres (CHCs, a predominant provider of community-based primary care) and patient preference of taking community-based primary care facilities as a first choice for medical attention. METHODS: A questionnaire survey was conducted on 1919 patients who sought medical care in 55 CHCs in Wuhan, China. Respondents were asked to identify their preferred first choice for medical attention and rate their satisfaction with eight aspects of CHCs (basic facility, medical equipment, medical services, nursing services, treatment process, courtesy and responsiveness, time spent with medical doctor, pharmacy services). Multivariate logistic regression models were established to determine the association between the CHC experience and the first choice of providers after adjustment for variations in sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS: Over 90% of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the eight aspects of CHCs; but only 75% preferred to take community-based primary care facilities as their first choice for medical attention. Those who were older and had a lower income were more likely to choose community-based primary care facilities. Geographic proximity and higher levels of satisfaction with the basic facility, courtesy and responsiveness, and pharmacy services in the CHCs were associated with a higher likelihood of taking community-based primary care facilities as a first choice for medical attention. CONCLUSION: The consumers of CHCs are generally satisfied with the services they received. However, one quarter of the CHC patients are yet to be convinced to accept community-based primary care facilities as a preferred first provider for medical care. Geographic proximity and patient experience with CHCs are associated with the patient choice.

480. Ungulate responses and habituation to unmanned aerial vehicles in Africa's savanna.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

vanVuuren M, vanVuuren R, Silverberg LM

This article tests the hypothesis that "the likelihood that the species will react and level at which they do to the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is related to the altitude, number of passes, sound intensity, type of UAV, takeoff distance, and species." This paper examined the behavioral responses of a group of free ranging ungulate species (Oryx, Kudu, Springbok, Giraffe, Eland, Hartebeest, and Impala) found in an animal reserve in Namibia to the presence of different in-flight UAV models. The study included 397 passes (trials) over 99 flights at altitudes ranging from 15 to 55 meters in three categories of response level: No response, Alert, and Movement. The ungulates were unhabituated to the UAVs and the study was conducted in the presence of stress-inducing events that occur naturally in the environment. Certain species were found to be more reactive than others, in addition to several displaying different response levels in single or mixed herd environments. Zebras were found to be less responsive in mixed herd environments while Oryx were present, as compared to when the Oryx were not; suggesting that some species may respond based on other species perception of threat or their relative fitness levels. The UAVs also produced inconsistent response rates between movement and alert behavior. The reference vehicle, Phantom 3 was much more likely than the Mavic to induce an alert response, while both having similar probabilities of inducing a movement response. Furthermore, the Custom X8 showed significantly more alert and movement responses than the other UAVs. This shows there may be several aspects to the UAVs that affect the responses of the ungulates. For instance, the sound intensity may alert the species more often, but close proximity may induce a movement response. More generally, the data shows that when the UAV is flying above 50 meters and has a measured sound intensity below 50 dB, the likelihood of inducing a movement response on an ungulate species is below 6% regardless of the vehicle on the first pass over the animals. Additionally, with each subsequent pass the likelihood of response dropped by approximately 20 percent. The results suggest a stronger correlation between flight altitude and response across the different ungulates, and the evidence suggests rapid habituation to the UAVs.

481. COWAVE: A labelled COVID-19 wave dataset for building predictive models.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Pradeep M, Raman K.

482. Spatial distribution, and predictors of late initiation of first antenatal care visit in Ethiopia: Spatial and multilevel analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Abebe GF, Birhanu AM, Alemayehu D

BACKGROUND: Despite the proven benefit of early initiation of first antenatal care visits as a means to achieve good maternal and neonatal health outcomes through early detection and prevention of risks during pregnancy, shreds of evidence showed that most of the women in Ethiopia start their ANC visits lately. OBJECTIVE: To determine the spatial distribution and predictors of late initiation of first antenatal care visits among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia. METHOD: The 2019 Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey (EMDHS) data were used. A total weighted sample of 2,935 reproductive-age women who gave birth in the five years preceding the survey and who had antenatal care visits for their last child was included. To check the nature of the distribution of late initiation of ANC visits, the global Moran's I statistics were applied. Gettis-OrdGi statistics and spatial interpolation using the Ordinary Kriging method were done to identify the spatial locations and to predict unknown locations of late initiation of first ANC visits, respectively. For the predictors, a multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model was applied. Finally, statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: The prevalence of late initiation of first ANC visits in Ethiopia was 62.6%. The spatial analysis showed that the late initiation of first ANC visits significantly varied across regions of Ethiopia. The spatial interpolation predicted the highest rates of late initiation of first ANC visits in the eastern SNNPRs, southern and western Oromia, and some parts of the Somalia region. Being rural residents, attending higher education, having medium wealth status, richer wealth status, richest wealth status, having ≥ 5 family size, a household headed by male, living in SNNPRs, and Oromia regions were significant predictors of late initiation of first ANC visits. CONCLUSION: A clustered pattern of areas with high rates of late initiation of the first ANC visit was detected in Ethiopia. Public health intervention targeting the identified hotspot areas, and women's empowerment would decrease the late start of the first ANC visit. Furthermore, the identified predictors should be underscored when designing new policies and strategies.

483. Evaluation of China's provincial digital economy development level and its coupling coordination relationship.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Lin K, Zhang X, Hou J.

484. Tensor decomposition and machine learning for the detection of arteriovenous fistula stenosis: An initial evaluation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Poushpas S, Normahani P, Kisil I

485. Universal screening or a universal risk assessment combined with risk-based screening for multidrug-resistant microorganisms upon admission: Comparing strategies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

van der Schoor AS, Severin JA, Klaassen CHW

OBJECTIVE: Timely identification of patients who carry multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDRO) is needed to prevent nosocomial spread to other patients and to the hospital environment. We aimed to compare the yield of a universal screening strategy upon admission to the currently installed universal risk assessment combined with risk-based screening upon admission. METHODS: This observational study was conducted within a prospective cohort study. From January 1, 2018, until September 1, 2019, patients admitted to our hospital were asked to participate. Nasal and perianal samples were taken upon admission and checked for the presence of MDRO. The results of the universal risk assessment and risk-based screening were collected retrospectively from electronic health records. RESULTS: In total, 1017 patients with 1069 separate hospital admissions participated in the study. Universal screening identified 38 (3.6%) unknown MDRO carriers upon admission (37 individual patients), all carrying extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales. For 946 of 1069 (88.5%) patients, both the universal risk assessment and universal screening were performed. For 19 (2.0%) admissions, ≥1 risk factor was identified. The universal risk assessment identified one (0.1%) unknown carrier, compared to 37 out of 946 carriers for the universal screening (P<0.001). Of the 37 carriers identified through the universal screening, 35 (94.6%) reported no risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that in our low endemic setting, a universal screening strategy identified significantly more MDRO carriers than the currently implemented universal risk-assessment. When implementing a universal risk-assessment, risk factors should be carefully selected to be able to identify ESBL-E carriers. While the universal screening identified more MDRO carriers, further research is needed to determine the cost-effectiveness of this strategy.

486. Timing and intensity of heat and drought stress determine wheat yield losses in Germany.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Riedesel L, Möller M, Horney P

487. Low prevalence of current and past SARS-CoV-2 infections among visitors and staff members of homelessness services in Amsterdam at the end of the second wave of infections in the Netherlands.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Generaal E, van Santen DKD, Campman SL

BACKGROUND: People experiencing homelessness (PEH) may be at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe COVID-19. The Dutch government established emergency shelters and introduced preventive measures for homelessness services. There were no major SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks noticed among PEH during the first two waves of infections. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of current and past infections among PEH and staff by conducting an on-site COVID-19 screening project at homelessness services in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. METHODS: We assessed the proportion of visitors and staff members of four homelessness services at two locations in Amsterdam with positive SARS-CoV-2 qPCR and antibody results (IgG/IgM Rapid Test/Biozek) in May 2021. We also assessed sociodemographic, clinical and lifestyle characteristics, compliance with basic prevention measures and intention to vaccinate against COVID-19 among PEH and staff. RESULTS: A total of 138 visitors and 53 staff members filled out a questionnaire and were tested. Among PEH, the SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate was 0% (0/133;95%CI = 0-1.9) and the antibody positivity rate was 1.6% (2/131;95%CI = 0.8-7.5) among those without prior COVID-19 vaccination. Among staff, these percentages were 3% (1/32;95%CI = 0.1-16.2) and 11% (5/53;95%CI = 3.6-23.6), respectively. Most participants were often compliant with the basic preventive measures 'not shaking hands', 'wearing a face mask' and 'washing hands', but not with 'physical distancing'. High vaccination intent was more common among staff members (55%) than among visitors (42%), while high trust in the governmental COVID-19 policies was more common among visitors (41%) than among staff (30%). CONCLUSIONS: We observed a low prevalence of past and current SARS-CoV-2 infections among PEH, which may be explained by instated shelter policies, limited daily activities of PEH and compliance with prevention measures. Vaccine hesitancy and mistrust among visitors and staff could hinder vaccination uptake, suggesting that interventions towards homelessness services are needed.

488. Clinical and genetic features of 334 Asian patients with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS) who presented with pulmonary cysts with or without a history of pneumothorax, with special reference to BHDS-associated pneumothorax.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Namba Y, Ebana H, Okamoto S

BACKGROUND: The clinical pulmonary manifestations and genetic features of Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS) in Asian patients remained unclear. We aimed to clarify the clinical features of BHDS-associated pneumothorax (PTX) and retrospectively investigate potential contributing factors in the largest Asian cohort to date. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical and genetic data collected in 2006-2017, from the BHDS patients who were Asian and presented with pulmonary cysts with or without a history of PTX. RESULTS: Data from 334 (41.3% males; 58.7% females) patients from 297 unrelated families were reviewed. Among them, 314 (94.0%) patients developed PTX. The median age at the first occurrence of PTX was 32 years, which was significantly lower in males (P = 0.003) and patients without notable skin manifestations (P < 0.001). Seventy-six (24.2%) patients experienced their first PTX episode before the age of 25 years. PTX simultaneously occurred in the bilateral lungs of 37 (11.8%) patients. Among 149 patients who had their first PTX episode at least 10 years before BHDS diagnosis, PTX occurred more frequently in males (P = 0.030) and light smokers than in nonsmokers (P = 0.014). The occurrence of PTX peaked in the early 30s and gradually decreased with age but remained high in females (P = 0.001). We identified 70 unique FLCN germline variants, including duplications (46.4%), substitutions (7.1%), insertions/deletions (30.0%), and variants affecting splicing (12.5%). Approximately 80% of Asian patients suspected of having BHDS could be genetically diagnosed by examining FLCN exons 7, 9, 11, 12, and 13. No apparent genotype-phenotype correlation regarding pulmonary manifestations was identified. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that sex, smoking history, and skin manifestations at BHDS diagnosis significantly influence the clinical features of BHDS-associated PTX. These findings may contribute to the appropriate management and treatment of BHDS-associated PTX.

489. Knowledge exchange sessions on primary health care research findings in public libraries: A qualitative study with citizens in Quebec.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Laberge M, Brundisini FK, Zomahoun HTV

490. In the mind of the beholder: The effects of familiarisation on the perception of atypical infant facial configurations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Hunt BW, Rayson H, Bannard C

Infant facial attractiveness is an important facilitator for adult-infant caregiving behaviour. Disruption to typical infant facial configurations can, however, attenuate their perceived attractiveness, as rated by adult observers. Previous research has either focused on how ratings are affected by observer characteristics (e.g., male/female), or alterations to infant faces, either experimentally, or naturalistically induced, such as the presence of a cleft lip. Little research has however been conducted on the effects of observer experience on adult ratings of infant facial attractiveness. Such effects could inform clinical work and policies aimed at promoting positive perception of facial malformations. The present study thus explored the effects of familiarisation on how typical and atypical infant facial configurations are evaluated by adults. We recruited two groups of female participants and compared their subjective attractiveness ratings of infant faces (24 typical and 24 cleft-affected), at baseline, and at one-week post-test. Between the two assessments, one group (n = 41) underwent a week-long training phase, where they were familiarised with cleft lip/palate-related visual and informational stimuli, while the control group (n = 44) received no training. Significantly higher ratings were provided for faces of typically developing versus cleft-affected infants by both groups of participants at baseline. At post-test, this pattern of ratings was repeated in participants belonging to the control group, while familiarised participants showed an increase, compared to baseline, in their ratings of cleft-affected faces and no difference between their evaluation of the latter and that of typically developing faces. These findings extend our understanding of the observer's experience in the evaluation of infant faces, beyond the effects of the structural characteristics of the observed faces. Results also highlight familiarity as a potentially protective influence against the negative consequences of alterations to typical facial configurations, suggesting avenues for intervention in supporting adult caregivers in the context of neonatal facial malformations.

491. Endotoxin induced acute kidney injury modulates expression of AQP1, P53 and P21 in rat kidney, heart, lung and small intestine.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Lv W, Xue L, Liang L

492. Discussing blockchain applications in TED Talks: A fashion wave approach to understanding the blockchain phenomenon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Bonazzi R, Gautschi H, Viscusi G.

493. Association of mental health conditions and functional gastrointestinal disorders among Vietnamese new-entry medical students.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Tran TTT, Luu MN, Tran LL

494. Cross-checking journalistic fact-checkers: The role of sampling and scaling in interpreting false and misleading statements.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Markowitz DM, Levine TR, Serota KB

495. Immune marker reductions in black and white Americans following sleeve gastrectomy in the short-term phase of surgical weight loss.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Phillips CL, Le TT, Lirette ST

496. Patterns of testing in the extensive Danish national SARS-CoV-2 test set-up.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Gram MA, Steenhard N, Cohen AS

497. Intraperitoneal transplant of Hepatocytes co-Encapsulated with mesenchymal stromal cells in modified alginate microbeads for the treatment of acute Liver failure in Pediatric patients (HELP)-An open-label, single-arm Simon's two stage phase 1 study protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Fitzpatrick E, Filippi C, Jagadisan B

BACKGROUND: Pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) carries a high mortality without liver transplantation (LT) in children. Liver transplantation, though lifesaving, is limited by timely donor organ availability, the risks of major surgery and complications of life-long immunosuppression. Hepatocyte transplantation (HT) improves synthetic and detoxification functions in small animal models. The encapsulation of hepatocytes in alginate protects it from the recipient immune system while the intraperitoneal route of administration allows large volumes to be infused. The safety and possibly short-term efficacy of encapsulated hepatocytes has been observed in a named patient use. A novel type of microbeads (HMB002) has been developed, using a modified alginate and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Its safety and medium-term efficacy need to be studied in the context of clinical study while optimizing the hepatocyte function and viability using modifications of the alginate and MSCs co-encapsulation. METHODS: A single centre, non-randomised, open-label, single-arm Simon's two stage study will be conducted to evaluate the safety, biological activity and tolerability of transplantation of a single intraperitoneal dose of microbeads made from an optimum combination of a modified alginate, MSCs and hepatocytes in 17 patients less than 16 years of age with acute liver failure (Stage 1: 9 patients and Stage 2: 8 patient). Safety will be assessed by documenting moderate to severe (including life threatening and death) adverse events due to HMB002 in the first 52 weeks post-procedure. Tolerability will be assessed by observing the proportion of initiated infusions where >80% of infusion is received by the patient. Biological activity will be reflected in patient survival with native liver at 24 weeks post treatment. DISCUSSION: HMB002, if safe and efficacious in acute liver failure, could be a bridge until the liver regenerates or a suitable organ becomes available. There are multiple advantages to using HT. HT, when delivered by the intraperitoneal route, is less invasive than LT. Hepatocytes from a single donor liver can be used to treat multiple patients. Cryopreserved cells provide an off-the-shelf emergency treatment in PALF. When encapsulated, alginate encapsulation of hepatocytes precludes the need for immunosuppression unlike in LT.

498. Interlayer charge transfer in supported and suspended MoS2/Graphene/MoS2 vertical heterostructures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Rocha Robledo AK, Flores Salazar M, Muñiz Martínez BA

499. Performance of cotton expressing Cry1Ac, Cry1F and Vip3Aa19 insecticidal proteins against Helicoverpa armigera, H. zea and their hybrid progeny, and evidence of reduced susceptibility of a field population of H. zea to Cry1 and Vip3Aa in Brazil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Marques LH, Ishizuka TK, Pereira RR

The genetically modified cotton DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 expressing Cry1Ac, Cry1F and Vip3Aa19 from Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) has been cultivated in Brazil since the 2020/2021 season. Here, we assessed the performance of DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 cotton expressing Cry1Ac, Cry1F and Vip3Aa19 against Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), and their hybrid progeny. We also carried out evaluations with DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 cotton containing Cry1Ac and Cry1F. In leaf-disk bioassays, DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 was effective in controlling neonates from laboratory colonies of H. armigera, H. zea and the hybrid progeny (71.9%-100% mortality). On floral bud bioassays using L2 larvae, H. zea presented complete mortality, whereas H. armigera and the hybrid progeny showed <55% mortality. On DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 cotton, the mortality of H. armigera on leaf-disk and floral buds ranged from 60% to 73%, whereas mortality of hybrids was <46%. This Bt cotton caused complete mortality of H. zea larvae from a laboratory colony in the early growth stages, but mortalities were <55% on advanced growth stages and on floral buds. In field studies conducted from 2014 to 2019, DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 cotton was also effective at protecting plants against H. armigera. In contrast, a population of H. zea collected in western Bahia in 2021/2022 on Bt cotton expressing Cry1 and Vip3Aa proteins, showed 63% mortality after 30 d, with insects developing into fifth and sixth instars, on DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 cotton. We conclude that H. armigera, H. zea, and their hybrid progeny can be managed with DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 cotton; however we found the first evidence in Brazil of a significant reduction in the susceptibility to DAS-21023-5 × DAS-24236-5 × SYN-IR102-7 cotton of a population of H. zea collected from Bt cotton in Bahia in 2021/2022.

500. Clinical, laboratory, and molecular epidemiology of Orientia tsutsugamushi infection from Southwestern India.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Chunduru K, A R M, Poornima S

501. Synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using methanol propolis extract (Pro-ZnO NPs) as antidiabetic and antioxidant.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

P D DA, Plashintania DR, Putri RM

502. Parental knowledge and communication with their adolescent on sexual and reproductive health issues in Nepal.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Singh DR, Shrestha S, Karki K

BACKGROUND: Parental knowledge about sexual and reproductive health issues and adequate communication with their adolescent on these issues are crucial in promoting adolescent sexual and reproductive health. Although there are evidence on adolescent perceptions of their sexual health issues, research on parental perspectives of adolescent sexual health and parent-adolescent communication about sexual health issues in Nepal remains unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to assess parental knowledge and communication practice about sexual and reproductive health with their adolescent children in Lalitpur Metropolitan City of Nepal. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2019 among randomly selected 308 parents of adolescents (aged 10-19 years) residing in Lalitpur Metropolitan City of Nepal. Face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires were conducted to collect the data. The collected data were entered into EpiData software v3.1, and data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows Version 21.0 (IBM Corp. Armonk, NY, USA). The statistical significance was considered at a p-value <0.05 and a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: Of 308 parents, one-third of parents were found to have correct knowledge about safe abortion, menstrual hygiene and management, modern contraceptives, prevention of sexually transmitted infections, wet dreams among male adolescents, abstaining from sexual intercourse during the fertile period, and the possibility of a male adolescent to impregnate a girl. In addition, only 40.9% of parents were found to have communicated with their adolescent children about sexual and reproductive health issues. Parents who have knowledge about puberty (aOR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2-3.9), belong to Bharamin/Chhetri ethnic group (aOR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.1-2.2), self-employed (aOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3-4.0), having two or more adolescent children (aOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.1-3.6), and whose adolescent children were staying in school hostel (aOR = 1.7, 95% CI:1.0-3.0) were more likely to have parental communication about sexual and reproductive health with their adolescent children. CONCLUSIONS: Most parents do not communicate with their adolescent children on sexual health topics, although they feel sexual health education is essential to adolescents. The majority of parents were found inadequately aware of adolescent sexual health issues. It is crucial to have contextual interventions that would encourage parent-adolescent communication on sexual health matters in an integrated way to promote adolescent sexual and reproductive health.

503. α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor interaction with G proteins in breast cancer cell proliferation, motility, and calcium signaling.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Oz M, King JR, Yang KS

504. An emerging field: An evaluation of biomedical graduate student and postdoctoral education and training research across seven decades.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 25

Van Wart A, Djorić D, D'Silva NM

Biomedical graduate student and postdoctoral education and training research has expanded greatly over the last seven decades, leading to increased publications and the emergence of a field. The goal of this study was to analyze this growth by performing a cross-sectional bibliometric analysis using a systematic approach to better understand the publishing trends (including historical vs. emerging themes and research priorities); depth, structure, and evidence-basis of content; and venues for publication. The analysis documented a dramatic increase in biomedical trainee-related publications over time and showed that this area of research is maturing into its own independent field. Results demonstrated that the most frequently published article types in this field are shorter editorial and opinion pieces, and that evidence-based articles are less numerous. However, if current trends continue, projections indicate that by the year 2035, evidence-based articles will be the dominating article type published in this field. Most frequently published topics included career outcomes and workforce characterization and professional development. In recent years, the most cited articles were publications focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, career outcomes and workforce characterization, and wellness. This study also shows that although a small subset of journals publishes most of this literature, publications are distributed diffusely across a wide range of journals and that surprisingly 68% of these journals have published only a single article on the topic. Further, we noted that the assignment of author- and index-supplied keywords was variable and inconsistent and speculate that this could create challenges to conducting comprehensive literature searches. Recommendations to address this include establishing standard keyword assignment criteria and proposing new index-supplied keywords to improve accessibility of research findings. These changes will be important for bringing visibility of this literature to our community, institutional leaders, national trainee organizations, and funding agencies.

505. How has COVID-19 changed healthcare professionals' attitudes to self-care? A mixed methods research study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Smith PS, Alaa A, Riboli Sasco E

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally changed the way services are delivered. Self-care, including good hygiene practices and avoidance of risk was emphasised as the key measure to tackle the pandemic in the early stages. OBJECTIVE: To understand how self-reported professional attitudes, perceptions and practices of self-care have changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN: Cross-sectional online survey and semi-structured qualitative interview. SETTING: Health care. PARTICIPANTS: 304 healthcare professionals (HCPs). METHODS: A wide range of HCPs, including pharmacists, nurses, doctors, social prescribers and other designations took part in a 27-item anonymous online survey. Semi-structured qualitative interviews with nine healthcare professionals explored attitudes to and practices of self-care before and during the pandemic. Views were sought on the permanence and implications of changes. Data were analysed using routine statistics and thematic analysis to identify major themes. RESULTS: A total of 304 HCPs responded to the survey fully. Nine participated in a semi-structured interview. There was agreement that the importance of self-care has increased markedly during the pandemic. The percentage of respondents who felt that self-care was 'very' important to their clients increased from 54.3% to 86.6% since the pandemic. Personal empowerment and capacity of service users to self-care increased significantly during the pandemic. Willingness of patients to engage (74%) and poor understanding of self-care (71%) were cited as the two main barriers to self-care. A close third was digital exclusion (71%), though 86% of respondents recommended online resources and 77% the use of smartphone apps. Survey respondents believed the changes to be permanent and positive. Interviewees reported a major, and positive move to self-care with the pandemic seen as an opportunity to be grasped, but professional education would have to be aligned to make the most of it. They raised concerns as to whether the shift to self-care was perceived by users as 'abandonment' rather than 'empowerment' and whether problems had been stored rather than dealt with through self-care and therefore whether the positive changes would continue after the pandemic. CONCLUSION: Reporting their views before the pandemic, barely more than half of the professionals surveyed saw self-care as fundamentally important to the individuals they served. This changed to 86% as a result of the pandemic. Patient/client engagement with and understanding of self-care were reported as major barriers, as was digital exclusion, though increased technological solutions were used by all respondents. Concerns were raised that the permanence of the changes depended upon continued encouragement and empowerment of individuals to self-care and on its inclusion in professional education as a substantive subject.

506. A mixed-method study examined the reasons why pregnant women late initiate antenatal care in Northeast Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Shewaye M, Cherie N, Molla A

BACKGROUND: Timely initiation of antenatal care visits is crucial for ensuring optimal care and health outcomes for women and children. However, late antenatal care initiation among pregnant women in low-income countries including Ethiopia is acknowledged in the literature. Therefore, this study examined why pregnant women initiate antenatal care late in Northeast Ethiopia. METHODS: This study was done using a mixed design approach that included phenomenology and retrospective cross-sectional designs. A retrospective cross-sectional study was deployed among randomly selected 632 medical charts of women who had antenatal care visit in Legambo District primary hospital and health centers. Kaplan Meier curve was used to estimate survival time. Bi-variable and multivariable Cox-proportional hazard regression models were fitted using R-studio-1.2.5033 to identify independent predictors of antenatal care initiation time. Six vignette-based focused group discussions were held with pregnant women who had been purposefully selected. Then, a qualitative content analysis that was informed by the phenomenological theory was done. RESULTS: This study indicated that only 195 (30.9%) of women timely initiated their antenatal care follow-up. In a survival analysis, all 632 women contributed 12,474 person-weeks giving a timely antenatal care initiation rate of 15.6 per 1000 person-weeks. According to the multivariable Cox regression models, late antenatal are initiation was found among pregnant women with an unknown last normal menstruation period, no living children, no bad obstetric history, not accompanied by their partner during antenatal care visit, and who lived in a >5-kilometer radius of health facility. In a qualitative analysis, being uncertain whether the pregnancy had occurred, believing that they have a very low probability of experiencing any complications, negative experience with healthcare providers, negative influence from their immediate contacts such as the mother and mother-in-law, and socio-cultural beliefs like "Qare" were found as major reasons why they started antenatal care follow-up late. CONCLUSION: Most pregnant women in Legambo district, northeastern Ethiopia, initiate their antenatal care visits late. Based on the findings of this study, strengthening the pregnant women identification program and performing regular pregnant women's conference will help to achieve early initiation of antenatal care visits. To lessen the negative influence of their immediate contacts, it will also good to include these old moms and husbands in the conference of pregnant women.

507. Comparative performance of agricultural productivity in 44 SSA countries for a period of 59 years (1961-2019): A Malmquist productivity index approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Baion YM, Yunxia W, Foday EH Jr

508. Severe udder cleft dermatitis lesion transcriptomics points to an impaired skin barrier, defective wound repair and a dysregulated inflammatory response as key elements in the pathogenesis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Vermeersch AS, Ali M, Gansemans Y

509. Gene identification and RNAi-silencing of p62/SQSTM1 in the vector Rhodnius prolixus reveals a high degree of sequence conservation but no apparent deficiency-related phenotypes in vitellogenic females.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Pereira J, Santos-Araujo S, Bomfim L

Autophagy and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) are important cellular mechanisms that coordinate protein degradation essential for proteostasis. P62/SQSTM1 is a receptor cargo protein able to deliver ubiquitinated targets to the proteasome proteolytic complex and/or to the autophagosome. In the insect vector of Chagas disease, Rhodnius prolixus, previous works have shown that the knockdown of different autophagy-related genes (ATGs) and ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes resulted in abnormal oogenesis phenotypes and embryo lethality. Here, we investigate the role of the autophagy/UPS adaptor protein p62 during the oogenesis and reproduction of this vector. We found that R. prolixus presents one isoform of p62 encoded by a non-annotated gene. The predicted protein presents the domain architecture anticipated for p62: PB1 (N-term), ZZ-finger, and UBA (C-term) domains, and phylogenetic analysis showed that this pattern is highly conserved within insects. Using parental RNAi, we found that although p62 is expressed in the ovary, midgut, and fat body of adult females, systemic silencing of this gene did not result in any apparent phenotypes under in-house conditions. The insects' overall levels of blood meal digestion, lifespan, yolk protein production, oviposition, and embryo viability were not altered when compared to controls. Because it is known that autophagy and UPS can undergo compensatory mechanisms, we asked whether the silencing of p62 was triggering adaptative changes in the expression of genes of the autophagy, UPS, and the unfolded protein response (UPR) and found that only ATG1 was slightly up regulated in the ovaries of silenced females. In addition, experiments to further investigate the role of p62 in insects previously silenced for the E1-conjugating enzyme (a condition known to trigger the upregulation of p62), also did not result in any apparent phenotypes in vitellogenic females.

510. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach to assess implementation fidelity of a group antenatal care trial in Rwanda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Singh K, Murindahabi N, Butrick E

BACKGROUND: The Preterm Birth Initiative (PTBi)-Rwanda conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of group antenatal care (group ANC) on preterm birth, using a group ANC approach adapted for the Rwanda setting, and implemented in 18 health centers. Previous research showed high overall fidelity of implementation, but lacked correlation with provider self-assessment and left unanswered questions. This study utilizes a mixed-methods approach to study the fidelity with which the health centers' implementation followed the model specified for group ANC. METHODS: Implementation fidelity was measured using two tools, repeated Model Fidelity Assessments (MFAs) and Activity Reports (ARs) completed by Master Trainers, who visited each health center between 7 and 13 times (9 on average) to provide monitoring and training over 18 months between 2017 and 2019. Each center's MFA item and overall scores were regressed (linear regression) on the time elapsed since the center's start of implementation. The Activity Report (AR) is an open-ended template to record comments on implementation. For the qualitative analysis, the ARs from the times of each center's highest and lowest MFA score were analyzed using thematic analysis. Coding was conducted via Dedoose, with two coders independently reviewing and coding transcripts, followed by joint consensus coding. RESULTS: A total of 160 MFA reports were included in the analysis. There was a significant positive association between elapsed time since a health center started implementation and greater implementation fidelity (as measured by MFA scores). In the qualitative AR analysis, Master Trainers identified key areas to improve fidelity of implementation, including: group ANC scheduling, preparing the room for group ANC sessions, provider capacity to co-facilitate group ANC, and facilitator knowledge and skills regarding group ANC content and process. These results reveal that monitoring visits are an important part of acquisition and fidelity of the "soft skills" required to effectively implement group ANC and provide an understanding of the elements that may have impacted fidelity as described by Master Trainers. CONCLUSIONS: For interventions like Group ANC, where "soft-skills" like group facilitation are important, we recommend continuous monitoring and mentoring throughout program implementation to strengthen these new skills, provide corrective feedback and guard against skills decay. We suggest the use of quantitative tools to provide direct measures of implementation fidelity over time and qualitative tools to gain a more complete understanding of what factors influence implementation fidelity. Identifying areas of implementation requiring additional support and mentoring may ensure effective translation of evidence-based interventions into real-world settings.

511. Temporal trends in the disease burden of osteoarthritis from 1990 to 2019, and projections until 2030.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Chen X, Tang H, Lin J

512. Haplotype-level metabarcoding of freshwater macroinvertebrate species: A prospective tool for population genetic analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Serrana JM, Watanabe K.

513. The effect of political turnover on corporate ESG performance: Evidence from China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Yang C, Hao W, Song D.

514. A method to assess the mitochondrial respiratory capacity of complexes I and II from frozen tissue using the Oroboros O2k-FluoRespirometer.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Ebanks B, Kwiecinska P, Moisoi N

515. Correction: Trends and patterns of North Korea's disease burden from 1990 to 2019: Results from Global Burden of Disease study 2019.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Lee EH, Choi M, Sempungu JK

516. How financial mechanisms can incentivize provision of ecosystem services from land restoration: A systematic review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Grigoriadis V, Gold E, Hutchinson G

517. Don't touch that dial: Psychological reactance, transparency, and user acceptance of smart thermostat setting changes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Heatherly M, Baker DA, Canfield C.

518. A machine learning approach to model the impact of line edge roughness on gate-all-around nanowire FETs while reducing the carbon footprint.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

García-Loureiro A, Seoane N, Fernández JG

519. Scholars180: An effective oral presentation assessment for optometry students.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Alam K, Zheng X, Vance K

520. Lifestyle factors related to prevalent chronic disease multimorbidity: A population-based cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Niebuur J, Vonk JM, Du Y

521. Enhancement of VGG16 model with multi-view and spatial dropout for classification of mosquito vectors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Pora W, Kasamsumran N, Tharawatcharasart K

Mosquitoes transmit pathogens that can cause numerous significant infectious diseases in humans and animals such as malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya fever, and encephalitis. Although the VGG16 model is not one of the most advanced CNN networks, it is reported that a fine-tuned VGG16 model achieves accuracy over 90% when applied to the classification of mosquitoes. The present study sets out to improve the accuracy and robustness of the VGG16 network by incorporating spatial dropout layers to regularize the network and by modifying its structure to incorporate multi-view inputs. Herein, four models are implemented: (A) early-combined, (B) middle-combined, (C) late-combined, and (D) ensemble model. Moreover, a structure for combining Models (A), (B), (C), and (D), known as the classifier, is developed. Two image datasets, including a reference dataset of mosquitoes in South Korea and a newly generated dataset of mosquitoes in Thailand, are used to evaluate our models. Regards the reference dataset, the average accuracy of ten runs improved from 83.26% to 99.77%, while the standard deviation decreased from 2.60% to 0.12%. When tested on the new dataset, the classifier's accuracy was also over 99% with a standard deviation of less than 2%. This indicates that the algorithm achieves high accuracy with low variation and is independent of a particular dataset. To evaluate the robustness of the classifier, it was applied to a small dataset consisting of mosquito images captured under various conditions. Its accuracy dropped to 86.14%, but after retraining with the small dataset, it regained its previous level of precision. This demonstrates that the classifier is resilient to variation in the dataset and can be retrained to adapt to the variation. The classifier and the new mosquito dataset could be utilized to develop an application for efficient and rapid entomological surveillance for the prevention and control of mosquito-borne diseases.

522. Stakeholders' perceptions of the trends in contraceptive prevalence rate and total fertility rate in Ghana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Gbagbo FY, Ameyaw EK.

523. Approach-avoidance orientations can predict young children's decision-making.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Benozio A, Cohenian R, Hepach R.

524. Mapping, intensities and future prediction of land use/land cover dynamics using google earth engine and CA- artificial neural network model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Osman MAA, Abdel-Rahman EM, Onono JO

525. Protein embeddings improve phage-host interaction prediction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Gonzales MEM, Ureta JC, Shrestha AMS.

526. Decrease in the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli isolates of Canadian turkey flocks driven by the implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Shrestha RD, Agunos A, Gow SP

The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant organisms at the human-animal-environment interface has raised global concern prompting governments and various stakeholders to take action. As a part of the stewardship initiative, Canadian turkey producers have implemented an antimicrobial use (AMU) strategy to manage antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in their sector. This study evaluated farm-level AMU and AMR data collected between 2016 and 2021 in major turkey-producing provinces/regions through the Canadian Integrated Program for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance to assess the progress of the strategy by characterizing the prevalence of homologous and multidrug resistance (MDR) in Escherichia coli isolated from turkeys. Multivariable mixed-effect logistic regression models assessed temporal and provincial/regional variations in AMR and MDR. Negative binomial regression models examined the temporal and regional variations in the total AMU. The total AMU (measured in mg/kg turkey biomass) significantly decreased in all provinces/regions in 2020 and 2021. Escherichia coli isolates from turkey flocks showed a significant decrease in resistance to gentamicin, sulfisoxazole, and tetracyclines during the six-year study period, consistent with the timing of the AMU reduction strategy. The prevalence of MDR isolates was significantly lower in 2020 and 2021 compared to 2016. Higher prevalence was observed in the Western region compared to Québec and Ontario. Two common AMR patterns were identified: ampicillin-streptomycin-tetracyclines and streptomycin-sulfisoxazole-tetracyclines. These AMR patterns indicate possible cross-resistances (same class), co-selection (unrelated classes) for resistance, or potential carryover of resistance determinants from previous production cycles. The decreasing prevalence of resistance to homologous antimicrobials, MDR, and AMU quantity are suggestive that the turkey sector's AMU strategy is achieving its desired impact. However, antimicrobials previously eliminated for preventive use in turkey flocks and the use of highly important antimicrobials in human medicine suggest that the AMU reduction strategy should be monitored and re-evaluated periodically to mitigate the emergence of MDR bacteria and safeguard animal and public health.

527. Validation of the StimQ2: A parent-report measure of cognitive stimulation in the home.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 24

Cates CB, Roby E, Canfield CF

528. Settlement on asphalt concrete pavement in permafrost regions under the dynamic load of aircraft.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Liu X, Chen Y, Fu C.

529. Influence of students' personality, gender, income and age on their intentions to create new information technology and telecommunications ventures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Barrera-Verdugo G, Cadena-Echverría J, Villarroel-Villarroel A

530. Evaluating the role of salt intake in achieving WHO NCD targets in the Eurasian Economic Union: A PRIME modeling study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Perera V, Allen LN, Farrand C

531. The impact of IDH and NAT2 gene polymorphisms in acute myeloid leukemia risk and overall survival in an Arab population: A case-control study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Al-Khatib SM, Ababneh O, Abushukair H

532. Optimal decisions on price and inventory for a newsboy-type retailer with identifiable information and discount promotion.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ni G.

533. Factors associated with retention of mother-baby pairs in the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV program in Kaberamaido district: A longitudinal analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Odongo JD, Opito R, Wanume B

BACKGROUND: Retention along the elimination of Mother to Child Transmission (eMTCT) cascade in Uganda remains poor as only 62.7%-69.5% are followed up to 18months. The objective of this study was to determine the rates of retention of mother-baby pairs at two levels of the eMTCT cascade (12 and 18 months) and associated factors. METHODS: This was a longitudinal analysis of 368 mother-baby pairs who were enrolled into the eMTCT program in Kaberamaido district from January 2013 to December 2018. Data was extracted from early infant diagnosis (EID) and mothers' ART registers, entered into Microsoft Excel and then exported to Stata statistical software package version 14.0 for management and analysis. Descriptive statistics such as mean and frequencies were computed at univariate level. At the bivariate level, Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to assess the level of association between the primary outcome and each independent variable, while Cox proportional hazard regression model was built at multivariate level to determine the factors independently associated with retention of mother-baby pairs in the eMTCT program. RESULTS: Of the 368 mothers enrolled into the study, their average age was 29.7years (SD = 6.6). Nearly two-thirds of the mothers were married/cohabiting, (n = 232, 63.0%). The 368 mother baby pairs were observed for a total time of 6340 person months, with majority, 349 (94.8%, 95%CI = 92.0-96.7) still active in eMTCT care, while 19(5.2%, 95%CI = 3.3-8.0) were lost to follow up at 12months. At 18 months, 323 (87.8%, 95%CI = 84.0-90.8) were active in eMTCT program while 45(12.2%, 95 CI = 9.2-16.0) were lost to follow up. At bivariate level, marital status, health facility level of enrolment, mothers' ART treatment supporter, and mothers' ART enrolment time were significantly associated with survival/lost to follow up (LTFU) of mother-baby pairs along the eMTCT cascade. At multivariable level, the mothers' time of ART initiation was significantly associated with survival/lost to follow up (LTFU) of mother-baby pairs at along the eMTCT cascade, with mothers-baby pairs who were initiated during the antenatal/post-natal periods having higher hazards of LTFU compared to those who initiated ART before Antenatal period (before pregnancy), aHR = 4.37(95%CI, 1.62-11.76, P = 0.003). Mother-baby pairs who were enrolled into the eMTCT program after the implementation of HIV test and treat policy (year 2017 and 2018) had higher hazards of LTFU as compared to those enrolled before the implementation of test and treat policy in Uganda (year 2013-2016), aHR = 2.22(95% CI, 1.15-4.30, P = 0.017). All the other factors had no significant association with lost to follow up and cascade completion at multivariate level. CONCLUSION: There was high level of retention of mother-baby pairs in the eMTCT program in Kaberamaido at 12 months, but it was suboptimal at 18months. ART initiation during the antenatal and/or post-natal period was significantly associated with suboptimal retention of mother-baby pairs along the eMTCT cascade.

534. Curve forming prediction of coal mine roadway based on RBF interpolation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Liu Z, Zou K, Sun Z.

535. Economic policy uncertainty and stock market in G7 Countries: A panel threshold effect perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Khojah M, Ahmed M, Khan MA

536. Cooling effect of urban forests on the urban heat island in Seoul, South Korea.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Hwang B, Sou HD, Oh JH

537. Homeobox transcription factor HbxA influences expression of over one thousand genes in the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Pandit SS, Zheng J, Yin Y

In fungi, conserved homeobox-domain proteins are transcriptional regulators governing development. In Aspergillus species, several homeobox-domain transcription factor genes have been identified, among them, hbxA/hbx1. For instance, in the opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, hbxA is involved in conidial production and germination, as well as virulence and secondary metabolism, including production of fumigaclavines, fumiquinazolines, and chaetominine. In the agriculturally important fungus Aspergillus flavus, disruption of hbx1 results in fluffy aconidial colonies unable to produce sclerotia. hbx1 also regulates production of aflatoxins, cyclopiazonic acid and aflatrem. Furthermore, transcriptome studies revealed that hbx1 has a broad effect on the A. flavus genome, including numerous genes involved in secondary metabolism. These studies underline the importance of the HbxA/Hbx1 regulator, not only in developmental processes but also in the biosynthesis of a broad number of fungal natural products, including potential medical drugs and mycotoxins. To gain further insight into the regulatory scope of HbxA in Aspergilli, we studied its role in the model fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Our present study of the A. nidulans hbxA-dependent transcriptome revealed that more than one thousand genes are differentially expressed when this regulator was not transcribed at wild-type levels, among them numerous transcription factors, including those involved in development as well as in secondary metabolism regulation. Furthermore, our metabolomics analyses revealed that production of several secondary metabolites, some of them associated with A. nidulans hbxA-dependent gene clusters, was also altered in deletion and overexpression hbxA strains compared to the wild type, including synthesis of nidulanins A, B and D, versicolorin A, sterigmatocystin, austinol, dehydroaustinol, and three unknown novel compounds.

538. Influence of cutting velocity on surface roughness during the ultra-precision cutting of titanium alloys based on a comparison between simulation and experiment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Lou Y, Chen L, Wu H

539. Modified activity-based anorexia paradigm dampens chronic food restriction-induced hyperadiponectinemia in adolescent female mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Kuriyama T, Murata Y, Ohtani R

540. How does environmental punishment affect regional green technology innovation?-Evidence from Chinese Provinces.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Wang W, Wen J, Luo Z

541. Hypergraph partitioning using tensor eigenvalue decomposition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Maurya D, Ravindran B.

542. Interpretable machine learning models to predict short-term postoperative outcomes following posterior cervical fusion.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Karabacak M, Margetis K.

543. Neutrophil extracellular traps involved in the pathogenesis of IgA vasculitis: Confirmed in two IgAV rat models.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Chen XQ, Zou JS, Tu L

BACKGROUND: Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been found to play a role in the development of autoimmune diseases. In the past two years, studies have demonstrated a significantly increase of NETs in skin tissues during the early stages of IgAV, indicating their involvement in disease activity among children with IgAV. However, the presence of NETs in IgAV animal models has not yet been reported. The objective of this study is to investigate whether NETs are involved in the pathogenesis of IgA vasculitis (IgAV) rats. METHODS: Twenty-four SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: the ovalbumin group, the gliadin group, and the control group. The IgAV rat models were established administering Indian ink with ovalbumin (ovalbumin group) or gliadin (gliadin group) with Freund's complete adjuvant. The cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) was quantified by using dsDNA quantification kit, while the levels of Immunoglobulins, complement C3 and myeloperoxidase-DNA (MPO-DNA) in serum were tested using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The IgA, complement C3 and NETs in tissues were detected through multiple immunofluorescences. RESULTS: Both the ovalbumin group and gliadin group showed IgA and C3 deposition in various tissues, including the glomerular mesangial region, skin, and digestive tract, while the control group showed no such deposition. The levels of circulatory cf-DNA and MPO-DNA, which are components of NETs, were significantly elevated in both ovalbumin and gliadin groups compared with the control group. Furthermore, the presence of NETs were found in gastrointestinal and renal tissues of the ovalbumin and gliadin groups, but not in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: IgAV model rat can be established through the combination of ovalbumin and gliadin with Indian ink and Freund's complete adjuvant. This study provides the first confirmation that NETs are involved in the pathogenesis of IgAV rat.

544. Distinctive transnational city-to-city partnerships, decentralization, and local governance of China as a Global East Country.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Xu J, Liu H, Huang G.

545. Timeliness of routine childhood vaccination among 12-35 months old children in The Gambia: Analysis of national immunisation survey data, 2019-2020.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Wariri O, Utazi CE, Okomo U

546. COVID-19 incidence and outcome by affluence/deprivation across three pandemic waves in Ireland: A retrospective cohort study using routinely collected data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

McKeown D, McCourt A, Hendrick L

547. Edge valency-based entropies of tetrahedral sheets of clay minerals.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Tang Y, Labba M, Jamil MK

548. Neighborhood deprivation in relation to lung cancer in individuals with type 2 diabetes-A nationwide cohort study (2005-2018).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Li X, Jansåker F, Sundquist J

BACKGROUND: Neighborhood deprivation has been found associated with both type 2 diabetes and lung cancer. The aim of this study was to examine the potential association between neighborhood deprivation and lung cancer incidence or mortality in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The results may identify a new risk or prognostic factor for lung cancer in this important subgroup and help develop a more contextual approach to prevention that includes neighborhood environment. METHODS AND FINDINGS: The study population included adults (n = 613,650) aged ≥ 30 years with type 2 diabetes during 2005 to 2018 in Sweden. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for incidence or mortality of lung cancer associated with neighborhood deprivation. All models were conducted in both men and women and adjusted for individual-level characteristics (e.g. age, smoking- and alcohol-related comorbidities, sociodemographic factors). The cumulative incidence and mortality for lung cancer were 1.08% (95% CI, 1.06 to 1.11) and 0.93% (0.90 to 0.95), respectively, in the study population during the study period. Neighborhood deprivation was associated with both incidence and mortality of lung cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes independently of the individual-level characteristics. In the fully adjusted models, comparing high- with low-deprivation neighborhoods, the HRs for lung cancer incidence were 1.21 (1.10 to 1.33) in men and 1.08 (0.95 to 1.21) in women. The corresponding HRs for lung cancer mortality were 1.04 (1.00 to 1.07) in men and 0.97 (0.94 to 1.00) in women. Competing risk analyses including cardiovascular mortality attenuated the results. CONCLUSION: In this large cohort of individuals with type 2 diabetes, we found higher lung cancer incidence and mortality in patients living in areas with high neighborhood deprivation, even after adjusting for individual-level characteristics. These findings may help develop a more contextual approach that includes the neighborhood environment when allocating resources for disease prevention and care in patients with type 2 diabetes. These findings could also help inform clinical care for patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly those living in deprived neighborhoods.

549. Influenza vaccination from the perspective of health care workers at university hospitals.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Rykowska D, Sobierajski T, Okarska-Napierała M

550. Evaluating the solubility of compounds intended for intramammary infusion based upon tests conducted across a range of milk matrices.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Martinez MN, Zhao F, Longstaff DG

551. Rational social distancing in epidemics with uncertain vaccination timing.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Schnyder SK, Molina JJ, Yamamoto R

552. Factors influencing the effectiveness of nature-based interventions (NBIs) aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing: Protocol of an umbrella review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Shrestha T, Chi CVY, Cassarino M

Several systematic reviews support the use of nature-based interventions (NBIs) as a mechanism of enhancing mental health and wellbeing. However, the available evidence for the effectiveness of these interventions is fragmentary and mixed. The heterogeneity of existing evidence and significant fragmentation of knowledge within the field make it difficult to draw firm conclusions regarding the effectiveness of NBIs. This mixed method umbrella review aims to synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of nature-based interventions through a summative review of existing published systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A systematic search in PsycINFO, PubMed, Greenfile, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, Academic Search Complete (EBSCO), Environment Complete (EBSCO), Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Health Policy Reference Centre and Google Scholar will be performed from inception to present. The search strategy will aim to find published systematic reviews of nature-based interventions (NBIs) where improving health and wellbeing is an explicit goal. This is a mixed method review, and systematic reviews with both quantitative and qualitative data synthesis will be considered. Two authors will independently perform the literature search, record screening, data extraction, and quality assessment of each included systematic review and meta-analysis. The individual qualitative and quantitative syntheses will be conducted in parallel and combined in an overarching narrative synthesis. The quantitative evidence will be used to assess the strength and direction of the effect of nature-based interventions on mental health and wellbeing outcomes. Evidence drawn from qualitative studies will be analysed and synthesised to understand the various pathways to engagement, involvement process and experiential factors that may mediate experiences. The risk of bias of the systematic reviews will be assessed using a 16-item Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR2) checklist. Trail registration: This review is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022329179).

553. Prolonged static stretching increases the magnitude and decreases the complexity of knee extensor muscle force fluctuations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Pethick J, Moran J, Behm DG.

554. Evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of two point-of-care tests for COVID-19 when used in symptomatic patients in community settings in the UK primary care COVID diagnostic accuracy platform trial (RAPTOR-C19).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Nicholson BD, Turner PJ, Fanshawe TR

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Point-of-care lateral flow device antigen testing has been used extensively to identify individuals with active SARS-CoV-2 infection in the community. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of two point-of-care tests (POCTs) for SARS-CoV-2 in routine community care. METHODS: Adults and children with symptoms consistent with suspected current COVID-19 infection were prospectively recruited from 19 UK general practices and two COVID-19 testing centres between October 2020 and October 2021. Participants were tested by trained healthcare workers using at least one of two index POCTs (Roche-branded SD Biosensor Standard™ Q SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test and/or BD Veritor™ System for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2). The reference standard was laboratory triplex reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) using a combined nasal/oropharyngeal swab. Diagnostic accuracy parameters were estimated, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), overall, in relation to RT-PCR cycle threshold and in pre-specified subgroups. RESULTS: Of 663 participants included in the primary analysis, 39.2% (260/663, 95% CI 35.5% to 43.0%) had a positive RT-PCR result. The SD Biosensor POCT had sensitivity 84.0% (178/212, 78.3% to 88.6%) and specificity 98.5% (328/333, 96.5% to 99.5%), and the BD Veritor POCT had sensitivity 76.5% (127/166, 69.3% to 82.7%) and specificity 98.8% (249/252, 96.6% to 99.8%) compared with RT-PCR. Sensitivity of both devices dropped substantially at cycle thresholds ≥30 and in participants more than 7 days after onset of symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Both POCTs assessed exceed the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency target product profile's minimum acceptable specificity of 95%. Confidence intervals for both tests include the minimum acceptable sensitivity of 80%. In symptomatic patients, negative results on these two POCTs do not preclude the possibility of infection. Tests should not be expected to reliably detect disease more than a week after symptom onset, when viral load may be reduced. REGISTRATION: ISRCTN142269.

555. A macroecological perspective on genetic diversity in the human gut microbiome.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Shoemaker WR.

556. Burnout and its associated factors among healthcare workers in COVID-19 isolation centres in Khartoum, Sudan: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Alfadul ESA, Idrees Abdalmotalib MM, Alrawa SSK

557. Ad hoc digital communication and assessment during clinical placements in nursing education; a qualitative research study of students', clinical instructors', and teachers' experiences.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Svendsen EJ, Opheim R, Hermansen BE

558. Effects of Rhazya Stricta plant organic extracts on human induced pluripotent stem cells derived neural stem cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Alawad AO, Alagrafi FS, Alfahad AJ

559. Transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation of cortical and thalamic somatosensory areas in human.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Kim HC, Lee W, Weisholtz DS

560. An evolutionary game analysis of digital transformation of multiagents in digital innovation ecosystems.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Liu B, Zou H, Qin H

561. A computational model of the competitive effects of ESG.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Katsamakas E, Sanchez-Cartas JM.

562. Change management in higher education: A sequential mixed methods study exploring employees' perception.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ezzeddine R, Otaki F, Darwish S

BACKGROUND: Higher education institutions need to put change management as a pivotal part of their strategy. The challenge is to effectively contextualize existing change management models to the respective work environment. Failing to properly adapt existing models to match the intricacies of the environment could lead to plenty of setbacks. For such a contextualization to take place, gauging employees' engagement and satisfaction becomes of paramount importance. As such, the overall purpose of the current study is to explore the perception of employees of a medical and health sciences university in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, in relation to change management and agility, and to showcase how the captured perspectives can be systemically interpreted to inform decision-making in the context of the study. METHOD: This research study relied on a sequential mixed methods design, which started with an exploration of the perception of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) leaders. Qualitative data was collected through a focus group session and was inductively analysed (based on constructivist epistemology). The output of the qualitative analysis contributed to the development of the quantitative data collection tool. The quantitative data was analysed by SPSS-version-27. FINDINGS: The qualitative analysis generated three key themes: Trigger, Execution, and Results, along with a thorough outline of lessons learned and opportunities for improvement. The Cronbach's Alpha reliability score was 92.8%. The percentage of the total average of agreement was 72.3%, and it appeared that 83.2% of the variance can be explained by the instrument (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The current study generated a novel conceptual framework that can be leveraged by educational leadership and administration to reinforce their decisions and optimize their agility in terms of managing change. The study also introduces a data collection tool which captures the perception of higher education stakeholders regarding the way their respective institutions handle change. This tool proved to be reliable and valid in the context of the study.

563. The experience of being a caregiver of patients with digestive cancer, from patients and caregivers' perception: A mixed study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Grivel C, Nizet P, Martin M

BACKGROUNDS: Caregivers are essential in the care of a patient with digestive cancer. Considering their experience and needs is crucial. OBJECTIVES: To explore the experience of caregivers of patients with digestive cancer and to compare the perspectives of patients and caregivers. METHODS: A mixed-methods study with a cross-sectional prospective and a comprehensive qualitative dimension was performed in a medical oncology unit in a French tertiary hospital. Dyads made of patients with digestive cancer and their caregiver were recruited. The Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA) and the Supportive Care Needs Survey for Partners and Caregivers (SCNS-PC) questionnaires were distributed to caregivers. The CRA was used to measure the caregiver burden and the SCNS-PC was used to identify the unmet supportive care needs of caregivers. Semi-structured interviews with the dyads were conducted. Qualitative interviews addressed various dimensions of the caregiver's experience from each dyad's member perspective. RESULTS: Thirty-two caregivers completed the questionnaires. Responses showed high self-esteem, schedule burden, and a need for care and information services. Ten dyads participated in the interviews. Three themes emerged from the caregiver's interviews: illness is an upheaval; loneliness and helplessness are experienced; caring is a natural role with positive outcomes. Four themes emerged from patient's interviews: the caregiver naturally assumes the role and gets closer; he is the patient's anchor; his life is disrupted; anxiety and guilt accompany the desire to protect him. In comparing patient and caregiver data, the main theme of disagreement was their relationship. CONCLUSIONS: Caregiver care does not appear to be optimal, particularly in terms of their need for information. Patients have a fairly good representation of their experience, but the caregivers' opinion need to be considered.

564. Bioconversion of olive oil pomace by black soldier fly increases eco-efficiency in solid waste stream reduction producing tailored value-added insect meals.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ameixa OMCC, Pinho M, Domingues MR

565. Accelerated high-throughput imaging and phenotyping system for small organisms.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Kose T, Lins TF, Wang J

566. Comparison of oral versus intravenous methadone on postoperative pain and opioid use after adult spinal deformity surgery: A retrospective, non-inferiority analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Esfahani K, Tennant W, Tsang S

567. Women's views about current and future management of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS): A mixed-methods study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Nickel B, McCaffery K, Jansen J

568. Evaluation of the feasibility and acceptability of an integrative group psychological intervention for people with Multiple Sclerosis: A study protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Fragkiadaki E, Cotterill N, Rice C

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is characterised by significant symptom diversity and complexity. The unpredictability of the symptoms and the emotional and cognitive facets of the disease have a significant impact on the patients' quality of life, relationships and other significant areas of living. Psychological interventions have been found to have moderate effects on quality of life, depression, stress reduction, improvement of wellbeing, anxiety, fatigue, sleep disturbances and emotion regulation. Most interventions so far are based on generic models of therapy which cannot always cover the complexity and unpredictability of MS. The present research project follows from an exploratory mixed method study on the experience of psychological interventions and the impact on the management of MS. The results of that study generated themes that led to the development of an integrative group psychological intervention named MyMS-Ally. The current study aims to explore the feasibility and acceptability of MyMS-Ally intervention and obtain preliminary data on the effects on quality of life, emotion regulation, depression and anxiety through the application of a convergent mixed methods design. People with MS will be recruited at the Bristol and Avon Multiple Sclerosis centre, North Bristol NHS Trust. They will participate in MyMS-Ally group intervention for 8 weeks. Individual semi-structured interviews drawing on Interpretative Phenomenological methodology will be conducted before and after the intervention and at three months follow up. Participants will complete quantitative measures on quality of life, emotion regulation, depression and anxiety before and after the intervention and at one and three months follow up. The aim is to explore the relevance, sustainability and adherence to the intervention and study processes (feasibility) as well as the appropriateness of the intervention based on the emotional and cognitive responses, satisfaction and perceived effectiveness (acceptability). It is aspired that this patient-centred psychological intervention will address needs and preferences of people with MS. The results of the present study will provide data for further development of the intervention and will lead to a big scale evaluation study.

569. Investigation of anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic properties of Parkia javanica bark and fruit extracts in zebrafish.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Dhakal R, Kalladka K, Singha A

570. Respected but stigmatized: Healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Spruijt I, Cronin A, Udeorji F

571. Schooling of light reflecting fish.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Pertzelan A, Ariel G, Kiflawi M.

572. Attenuation Aβ1-42-induced neurotoxicity in neuronal cell by 660nm and 810nm LED light irradiation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Thammasart S, Namchaiw P, Pasuwat K

573. Barriers and facilitators associated with implementing interventions to support oral anticancer agent adherence in academic and community cancer center settings.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Muluneh B, Muir MA, Collins JB

574. Prediction of lymphoma response to CAR T cells by deep learning-based image analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Tong Y, Udupa JK, Chong E

575. Fathers' experiences of childcare and feeding: A photo-elicitation study in a low resource setting in urban Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Berhane HY, Tewahido D, Tarekegn W

576. "It feels like medically promoted disordered eating": The psychosocial impact of gestational diabetes mellitus in the perinatal period.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Benton M, Silverio SA, Ismail K.

577. Impact of economic globalisation on value-added agriculture, globally.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Sansika N, Sandumini R, Kariyawasam C

578. Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation and quantitative weight analysis in structure management of human resources.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Zhang H.

579. Translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Persian version of inflammatory bowel disease-fatigue (IBD-F) self-assessment questionnaire.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Hatamnejad MR, Shirvani M, Pourhoseingholi MA

BACKGROUND: This study appraises the psychometrics properties of the Inflammatory bowel disease-fatigue (IBD-F) Persian version questionnaire. METHODS: The original IBD-F questionnaire was translated into the Persian version in a standard forward-back manner. The validation was performed through the face, content, and construct validity. Fifteen experts scored each item's necessity on an ordinal Likert scale of three; then, the content validity ratio was calculated using the Lawshe formula. Eight judges from pre-defined panel rated each item on an ordinal 4-point Likert scale concerning its relevancy, clarity, and simplicity for individual-CVI calculation. The mean individual-CVI was considered as the Scale-CVI for each domain. Twenty lay experts (selected from the target population) were asked to express their opinion on each item's importance by scoring on a 5-point Likert scale; subsequently, face validity was determined by the impact score formula. The questions that had minimum values of CVR, CVI, and impact score were retained in the final version of the questionnaire for reliability evaluation. Construct validity was evaluated via Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were checked using Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Fifty-four patients recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria to participate in the reliability analysis. RESULTS: All the questions received the qualified values of CVR (exceeding 0.49 points) and impact score (more than 1.5 points) and were retained in the questionnaire; however, revisions were made for questions with a CVI 0.7-0.9 for clarity and simplicity. The result demonstrated relative goodness CFA and proper internal consistency, as Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.964 for the test (0.845 and 0.963 for the first and second part of the questionnaire, respectively (and 0.888 for the re-test (0.793 and 0.876 for the first and second section of the questionnaire, respectively). The ICC values between test and re-test for the first and second part and the whole questionnaire were obtained as 0.904, 0.922, and 0.921, respectively. CONCLUSION: The Persian version of the IBD-F questionnaire was valid and reliable; thus, an appropriate scale was deemed to measure fatigue (severity, frequency, and impact on daily activities).

580. A scoping review protocol on diagnostic strategies to detect occult malignancies in individuals with ischemic stroke.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Leentjens J, Chornenki NLJ, Spiegelenberg J

581. TMEM41A overexpression correlates with poor prognosis and immune alterations in patients with endometrial carcinoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Shi K, Liu XL, Guo Q

BACKGROUND: Expression levels of transmembrane protein 41A (TMEM41A) are related to the progression of malignant tumors. However, the association between TMEM41A expression and endometrial carcinoma (EC) remains unclear. This study aims to identify the roles of TMEM41A expression in the prognosis of patients with EC and its correlation with EC progression. METHODS: The TMEM41A expression and its correlation with the survival of patients with EC were assessed. Cox regression analysis was used to identify the prognostic factors, while nomograms were used to examine the association between the prognostic factors and the survival of patients with EC. Finally, the link between TMEM41A level and immune microenvironment and RNA modifications was investigated in EC. RESULTS: TMEM41A was overexpressed in EC. TMEM41A overexpression could diagnose the EC and evaluate the poor prognosis of patients. Overexpression of TMEM41A was associated with clinical stage, age, weight, histological subtype, tumor grade, and survival status of patients with EC. Clinical stage, age, tumor grade, radiotherapy, and TMEM41A overexpression were factors of poor prognosis in patients with EC. The nomograms revealed the correlation between the TMEM41A level and survival time of patients with EC at 1, 3, and 5 years. Furthermore, TMEM41A overexpression was significantly correlated with the level of the stromal score, immune score, estimate score, NK CD56 bright cells, iDC, NK cells, eosinophils, pDC, T cells, TReg, cytotoxic cells, mast cells, Th17 cells, neutrophils, aDC, NK CD56 dim cells, TFH, Th2 cells, CD8 T cells, macrophages, immune cell markers, and RNA modifications. CONCLUSIONS: TMEM41A is overexpressed in EC tissues and is associated with the prognosis, immune microenvironment, and RNA modification. Our preliminary studies indicate that overexpression of TMEM41A can potentially serve as a biomarker for EC treatment.

582. Evaluation of CRP as a marker for bacterial infection and malaria in febrile children at the Douala Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ngwengi Y, Ngaba GP, Nida M

583. The doctor knows or the evidence shows: An online survey experiment testing the effects of source trust, pro-vaccine evidence, and dual-processing in expert messages recommending child COVID-19 vaccination to parents.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Kikut AI.

584. Occupational exposure to dust and respiratory symptoms among Ethiopian factory workers: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ashuro Z, Hareru HE, Soboksa NE

BACKGROUND: Occupational respiratory disorders are a major global public health concern among workers exposed to dust particles in dust-generating workplaces. Despite fragmented research findings on the magnitude of respiratory problems and the lack of a national occupational respiratory disease recording and reporting system at the Ethiopian factory, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among factory workers were unknown. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize and pool estimates from studies that reported the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and predictors among Ethiopian factory workers who worked in dusty environments. METHODS: A systematic literature searches were conducted using electronic databases (PubMed, Science Direct, African Journals Online, and Web of Science). The primary and secondary outcomes were prevalence of respiratory symptoms and predictors, respectively. The STATA version 17 was used to analyze the data. A random effect meta-analysis model was used. Eggers test with p-value less than 5%, as well as the funnel plot, were used to assess publication bias. RESULTS: The searches yielded 1596 articles, 15 of which were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of respiratory symptoms among Ethiopian factory workers was 54.96% [95% confidence interval (CI):49.33-60.59%]. Lack of occupational health and safety (OSH) training [Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.34, 95%CI:1.56-3.52], work experience of over 5 years [OR = 3.19, 95%CI: 1.33-7.65], not using personal protective equipment (PPE) [OR = 1.76, 95%CI:1.30-2.39], and working more than eight hours per day [OR = 1.89, 95%CI:1.16-3.05] were all significant predictors of respiratory symptoms. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of respiratory symptom was found to be high in Ethiopian factory workers. To prevent workers from being exposed to dust, regular provision and monitoring of PPE use, workers OSH training, and adequate ventilation in the workplace should be implemented.

585. Impact of diabetes on COVID-19 patient health outcomes in a vulnerable racial minority community.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Hamaway S, Nwokoma U, Goldberg M

586. Burnout: A predictor of oral health impact profile among Nigerian early career doctors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ogunsuji OO, Adebayo O, Kanmodi KK

There have been reported association of oral health disorders with burnout, stress, and mental health. Arguably, with these reported associations, and the current prevalence of burnout amongst Nigerian doctors, exploring the role of burnout on oral health amongst Nigerian doctors is timely. This study aims to determine the relationship between burnout and oral health-related quality of life amongst Early Career Doctors (ECDs) in Nigeria, while also identifying the role other possible predictors plays in this relationship. This was a cross-sectional study conducted amongst Nigerian ECDs as part of Challenges of Residency Training in Nigeria (CHARTING) II project. A total of 632 ECDs were recruited across thirty-one tertiary hospitals in the 6 geopolitical zones of the country using a multistage cluster sampling technique. A self-administered paper-based semi-structured questionnaire was given to each participant that consented. The tools used to assess burnout and Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) were Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) respectively. Independent samples T-test, ANOVA and Multiple linear regression were used to draw inferences from the data collected. Overall mean OHIP-14 score of all participants was 11.12 (±9.23). The scores for the 3 dimensions of burnout were below 50% with CBI-Personal Burnout having the highest score of 49.96 (±19.15). Significant positive correlations (p < 0.001) were found between OHIP-14 and all the dimensions of burnout, as the burnout scores were increasing, there was a corresponding increase in the OHIP scores thus poorer OHRQoL. The regression model shows that the predictors of OHIP were CBI-PB (p = 0.003), use of fluoride paste (p = 0.039), use of tobacco (p = 0.005) and being a denture user (p = 0.047). This study shows a positive correlation between burnout and OHIP of ECDs. We found that as burnout was increasing, OHIP increased thus implying poorer oral health related quality of life amongst ECDs. The use of fluoride toothpaste, tobacco and denture are other factors we found that could affect the OHIP of ECDs.

587. Kidney damage on fertility and pregnancy: A Mendelian randomization.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Ren J, Huang Q, Lie X

BACKGROUND: Low fertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes are commonly observed in women with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, a causal relationship between low fertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes with CKD remains unclear. Besides, whether mild kidney dysfunction can affect fertility and pregnancy still needs exploration. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the causal effect of kidney damage on fertility and pregnancy using Mendelian randomization (MR). METHODS: We first used two-sample MR to examine the effects of kidney damage on fertility and pregnancy. Next, we introduced the Bayesian model averaging MR analysis to detect major causal relationships and render the results robust. The genetic instruments and outcome data were derived from various large genome-wide association studies. RESULTS: Adverse pregnancy outcomes: Our analyses supported a suggestive causal effect of CKD and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) rapid on stillbirth, with CKD having an odds ratio (OR) of 1.020 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.002 to 1.038] and eGFR rapid having an OR of 1.026 (95% CI 1.004-1.048). We also discovered a suggestive causal effect of eGFR on spontaneous abortion, with an OR of 2.63 (95% CI 1.269 to 5.450). Moreover, increased urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was regarded as a potential risk factor for pre-eclampsia (OR = 1.936; 95% CI 1.065 to 3.517) and gestational hypertension (OR = 1.700; 95% CI 1.002 to 2.886). Fertility assessment: The results indicated that eGFR and UACR had a suggestive causal relationship with the anti-Müllerian hormone level (eGFR beta: 1.004; UACR beta: 0.405). CONCLUSIONS: Our study used MR to demonstrate a suggestive causal relationship between kidney damage and fertility and pregnancy. We reported that mild kidney dysfunction might be a risk factor for reduced fertility and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Dynamic renal detection may help preserve fertility and reduce the risk of pregnancy loss.

588. Improved Simultaneous Multi-slice imaging with Composition of k-space Interpolations (SMS-COOKIE) for myocardial T1 mapping.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Demirel ÖB, Weingärtner S, Moeller S

589. Association of indoor use of pesticides with CKD of unknown origin.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Alvand S, Alatab S, Dalvand S

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing global health problem. Recently, an epidemic of CKD of unknown origin (CKDu), a form of CKD seen mostly in agricultural communities, has been emerged. One of the proposed causes of CKDu is pesticide use in farmers. On the other hand, the research on relation between indoor use of pesticides and CKDu is little. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association between indoor use of pesticide as well as the exposure time with CKDu. This study was done as part of the population-based cohort of Prospective Epidemiological Research Studies in Iran. We used the baseline data of the Zahedan Adult Cohort Study. All subjects with diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 60-89 ml/min/1.73 m2, and unavailable creatinine measurement were excluded. Subjects with an eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 were defined as having CKDu, and their data were compared with those with an eGFR of more than 90 ml/min/1.73 m2. Data regarding indoor pesticide use and duration of exposure were obtained through a questionnaire. After applying the exclusion criteria, 1079 subjects remained in the study. Female sex, single marital status, low physical activity, triglyceride (TG) levels of more than 150 mg/dl, body mass index (BMI) of more than 25 kg/m2, non-smokers, indoor pesticide use, and high pesticide exposure time were associated with CKDu. The effects of age, female sex, TG levels more than 150 mg/dl, pesticide use (OR 1.36; 95% CI 1.01-1.84), and high exposure time (third tertile of exposure time) compared to non-users (OR 1.64; 95% CI 1.07-2.51) remained significant in multivariable analysis. CONCLUSION: We found a positive association between pesticide use, as well as longer exposure time to pesticides, and impaired kidney function in cases without diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Further longitudinal studies should be carried out to confirm these findings.

590. Analysis of human invasive cytotrophoblasts demonstrates mosaic aneuploidy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Weier JF, Ferlatte C, Baumgartner A

591. Evaluating the impact of injury prevention interventions in child and adolescent sports using the RE-AIM framework and CERT: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Hughes T, O'Hara J, Burton A

BACKGROUND: Participation in sport is a popular pastime for children and adolescents that improves their physical health, mental health and motor skills. Musculoskeletal injuries are a relatively common downside of sports participation and can have negative long-term consequences. Injury prevention programmes have demonstrated effectiveness in child and adolescent sports, provided compliance is adequate. However, little is known about the factors which relate to their impact on the wider community and whether the prevention programmes have been adopted and maintained in the long-term. The objective of this review was to assess the current literature on exercise-based injury prevention interventions in child and adolescent sports (aged under 19 years) against the 'Reach', 'Effectiveness', 'Adoption', 'Implementation', 'Maintenance' (RE-AIM) framework and Consensus of Exercise Reporting Template (CERT), to ascertain level of reporting for the components which relate to external validity. METHODS: Seven electronic databases; PubMed, Medline, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus and The Cochrane Library, were searched from date of inception to July 2022 using the themes of: 'Child and Adolescent', 'Sport', 'Injury' and 'Prevention'. Eligibility criteria included: Experimental trial design, exercise-based intervention programmes, primary outcome of injury incidence and participants aged under 19 years. Two reviewers assessed each trial independently against the RE-AIM model dimension items checklist (RE-AIM MDIC) and Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) before reaching a consensus on reporting. RESULTS: Forty-five unique trials met the eligibility criteria. Mean reporting level for all studies across the whole RE-AIM MDIC was 31% (SD ± 16.2%, Range 7-77%). The domain of 'effectiveness' was the most comprehensively reported (60%), followed by 'implementation' (48%), 'reach' (38%), 'adoption' (26%) and 'maintenance' (7%). The mean reporting score for the CERT was 50% (SD ± 20.8, range 0-81%). CONCLUSION: Published data on injury prevention in child and adolescent sports is highly focussed on the effectiveness of the intervention, with little consideration given to how it will be adopted and maintained in the long-term. This has led to considerable gaps in knowledge regarding optimal programme implementation, with a lack of data on adoption and maintenance contributing to the gap between research and practice. Future research needs to place greater focus on external validity and consider incorporating the study of implementation and feasibility as part of effectiveness trial design. This approach should provide the data that will help narrow the considerable gap between science and practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO Registration number CRD42021272847.

592. Exposure to long wavelength light that improves aged mitochondrial function shifts acute cytokine expression in serum and the retina.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 21

Shinhmar H, Hogg C, Jeffery G.

593. Influence of family parenting style on the formation of eating behaviors and habits in preschool children: The mediating role of quality of life and nutritional knowledge.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Ningning W, Wenguang C.

594. Polyhydroxyalkanoate production in Pseudomonas putida from alkanoic acids of varying lengths.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Sikkema WD, Cal AJ, Hathwaik UI

595. The impact of childcare availability on maternal employment: Evidence from Czech municipalities.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Kalíšková K, Münich D.

596. Linkage disequilibrium block single-nucleotide polymorphisms in FTO alpha ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase gene inference with breast cancer and Type II diabetes in Pakistani female population.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Mansoor Q, Ismail M, Ali Ul Qader S.

Breast Cancer and Diabetes Mellitus are top ranked non-communicable life threatening diseases concerned in South Asia. The growing scientific clues witness the involvement of genetic variations which readily serve as risk factors for the disease onset. Comprehending the association of genetic predictors and risk factors in the conserved genome regions can help reveal underlying disease genetics and identify the sustained druggable targets. The present study aims to identify discrete inference of FTO alpha-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase gene linkage disequilibrium block SNPs rs9940128 and rs9939609 as prognostic genetic elements in defining the disease course either as BrC or NIDDM in Pakistani population. Clinically abreast female Breast Cancer and Type II (Non-Insulin Dependent) Diabetes Mellitus cases with the healthy controls participated in the study. The genomic study was established on the DNA of cases and controls through Tetra primers ARMS PCR and PCR-RFLP; data were analyzed statistically to reach comprehensive scientific annotation. Breast Cancer incidence was high in post menopause women. Fretful cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension, sugar profiles and high incidence in females was evident in Type II (Non-Insulin Dependent) Diabetes Mellitus. BMI and family history were meager factor for either of the diseases. FTO gene alpha-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase linkage disequilibrium block Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism rs9939609 and rs9940128 threating inference was significant in the cancer and diabetes subjects correspondingly. The conclusion indicates serious clinical derailments in breast cancer and Type II (Non-Insulin Dependent) Diabetes Mellitus auxiliary to disease complication in genetically risk bearing FTO alpha-ketoglutarate dependent dioxygenase gene haplotype/linkage disequilibrium block SNPs prevailing in the affected Pakistani population. These clinical and genetic indicators could decisively be adopted in health care practice to intervene the sky rising disease incidence.

597. Impact of dominance rank specification in dyadic interaction models.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Mielke A.

598. Reversing food preference through multisensory exposure.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Chatterjee A, Mazumder S, Das K.

599. Effects of fecal microbiota transplantation in metabolic syndrome: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Qiu B, Liang J, Li C.

600. Assessment of Bio-physiological damages and cytological aberrations in cowpea varieties treated with gamma rays and sodium azide.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Raina A, Tantray YR, Khan S.

601. Offline EEG hyper-scanning using anonymous walk embeddings in tacit coordination games.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Zuckerman I, Mizrahi D, Laufer I.

602. Types of kindergarten and their relationship with parental and children's socio-demographic characteristics in Denmark.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Specht IO, Larsen SC, Nielsen AK

603. Harnessing the power of AI: Advanced deep learning models optimization for accurate SARS-CoV-2 forecasting.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Tariq MU, Ismail SB, Babar M

604. Using Readable English leads to reading gains for rural elementary students: An experimental study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Coggins JV.

OBJECTIVES: This study measured whether and to what degree Readable English effectively improves reading fluency and comprehension skills of adolescent learners. METHODS: This experimental study (N = 855) measured the efficacy of two different multiple component reading programs for students in grades three, four, and five. Students were pre-and post-tested using EasyCBM Grade Level Reading Benchmarks. Students scoring at/below the 30th percentile on either benchmark were also assessed with the WRMT-3 Passage Reading Comprehension and Oral Reading Fluency measures. Students received 45-60 instructional hours in either Readable English or Amplify CKLA during their regular ELA class. RESULTS: Students who received Readable English instruction significantly outperformed students in the typical practice condition on all measures of reading fluency and comprehension. The intervention condition's EasyCBM benchmark reading rate (m = 29.6 WCPM), reading accuracy (m = 3.1%), and comprehension (m = 1.9) surpassed the control group's reading rate (m = 17.4 WCPM), accuracy (m = 0.7%), and comprehension (m = 0.7) WRMT-3 ORF showed students in the Readable English intervention condition (m = 13.4 growth scale values [GSV] and m = 1.0 grade equivalency) outscored students in the control condition (m = 7.8 GSV and m = 0.5 grade equivalency). WRMT-3 Passage Comprehension showed Readable English students (m = 11.0 GSV and m = 0.9 grade equivalency) outgrew control condition students (m = 4.4 GSV and m = 0.3 grade equivalency). CONCLUSIONS: In a school year fraught with pandemic instructional interruptions and learning loss, students in grades 3-5 who received Readable English instruction closed reading gaps. The meaningful gains in reading rate and accuracy experienced by students in the intervention group will give exponential word reading volume dividends to students able to read text faster and more accurately going forward, helping them become more skilled readers.

605. Genome-wide data suggest a revision in management of the Caspian Sea trout Salmo caspius.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Najafikhah A, Zeinalabedini M, Arefnezhad B

606. The association between menstrual hygiene, workplace sanitation practices and self-reported urogenital symptoms in a cross-sectional survey of women working in Mukono District, Uganda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Borg SA, Bukenya JN, Kibira SPS

BACKGROUND: Women worldwide experience challenges managing their periods. Menstrual and genital hygiene behaviours have been linked to negative health outcomes, including urogenital symptoms and confirmed infections. However, evidence testing this association has been limited and mixed. This study aimed to (1) describe the menstrual care practices and prevalence of self-reported urogenital symptoms among working women in Mukono District, Uganda, and (2) test the associations between menstrual and genital care practices, and urogenital symptoms. METHODOLOGY: We undertook a cross-sectional survey of women aged 18-45 working in markets, schools, and healthcare facilities in Mukono District, with 499 participants who had menstruated in the past two months included in this analysis. We developed an aggregated measure of menstrual material cleanliness, incorporating material type and laundering practices. Associations with urogenital symptoms were tested using the aggregated material cleanliness measure alongside the frequency of changing materials, handwashing before menstrual tasks, and sanitation practices. RESULTS: Among our sample, 41% experienced urogenital symptoms in the past month. Compared to women exclusively using disposable pads, using appropriately cleaned or non-reused improvised materials (PR = 1.33, 95%CI 1.04-1.71), or inadequately cleaned materials (improvised or commercially produced reusable pads) (PR = 1.84, 95%CI 1.46-3.42) was associated with an increased prevalence of self-reported urogenital symptoms in the last month. There was no difference between those using disposable pads and those using clean reusable pads (PR = 0.98; 95%CI 0.66-1.57). Infrequent handwashing before changing materials (PR 1.18, 95%CI: 0.96-1.47), and delaying urination at work (PR = 1.37, 95%CI: 1.08-1.73) were associated with an increased prevalence of self-reported symptoms. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of self-reported urogenital symptoms was associated with the type and cleanliness of menstrual material used as well as infrequent handwashing and urinary restriction. There is a need for interventions to enable women to maintain cleanliness of their menstrual materials and meet their menstruation, urination and hand washing needs at home and work.

607. Distribution characteristics of FcμR positive cells in small intestinal lymph nodes of Bactrian camel.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Fei X, Li JF, Fang YD

608. Purposeful listening in challenging conditions: A study of prediction during consecutive interpreting in noise.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Amos RM, Hartsuiker RJ, Seeber KG

609. Government spending shocks and default risk in emerging markets.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Jiang M, Li J.

610. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in wastewater from an enclosed college campus serves as an early warning surveillance system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Kazenelson J, Jefferson T, Rhodes RG

611. The role of critical care nurses in shared decision-making for patients with severe heart failure: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Inagaki N, Seto N, Lee K

AIM: Patients with severe heart failure undergo highly invasive and advanced therapies with uncertain treatment outcomes. For these patients, shared decision-making is necessary. To date, the nursing perspective of the decision-making process for patients facing difficulties and how nurses can support patients in this process have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to clarify the perceptions of critical care nurses regarding situations with patients with severe heart failure that require difficult decision-making, and their role in supporting these patients. METHODS: Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 certified nurse specialists in critical care nursing at nine hospitals in Japan. A qualitative inductive method was used and the derived relationships among the themes were visually structured and represented. RESULTS: The nurses' perceptions on patients' difficult situations in decision-making were identified as follows: painful decisions under uncertainties; tense relationships; wavering emotions during decision-making; difficulties in coping with worsening medical conditions; patients' wishes that are difficult to realize or estimate; and difficulties in transitioning from advanced medical care. Critical care nurses' roles were summarized into six themes and performed collaboratively within the nursing team. Of these, the search for meaning and value was fundamental. Two positions underpin the role of critical care nurses. The first aims to provide direct support and includes partnerships and rights advocacy. The second aims to provide a holistic perspective to enable necessary adjustments, as indicated by situation assessments and mediation. By crossing various boundaries, co-creating, and forming a good circular relationship in the search for meaning and values, the possibility of expanding treatment and recuperation options may be considered. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe heart failure have difficulty participating in shared decision-making. Critical care nurses should collaborate within the nursing team to improve interprofessional shared decision-making by providing decisional support to patients that focuses on values and meaning.

612. Tuina (Chinese massage) for insulin resistance and sensitivity: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of animal and human studies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Zhao Z, Yan J, Ding Y

613. SARS-CoV-2 protein structure and sequence mutations: Evolutionary analysis and effects on virus variants.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Lomoio U, Puccio B, Tradigo G

614. Long-term exposure to outdoor air pollution and asthma in low-and middle-income countries: A systematic review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Abbah AP, Xu S, Johannessen A.

615. Influence of FGF4 and BMP4 on FGFR2 dynamics during the segregation of epiblast and primitive endoderm cells in the pre-implantation mouse embryo.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Goissis MD, Bradshaw B, Posfai E

616. Acute nicotine abstinence amplifies subjective withdrawal symptoms and threat-evoked fear and anxiety, but not extended amygdala reactivity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Kim HC, Kaplan CM, Islam S

617. Effects of repetitive mild traumatic brain injury on weight gain and chronic behavioral outcomes in male rats.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Graham MA, Juzang PT, White TE.

618. Growth strains cause vascular browning and cavities in ´Nicoter´ apples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Grimm E, Peters M, Kaltenbach J

619. Code-switching functions in online advertisements on Snapchat.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Almoaily M.

620. Youth and healthcare workers' perspectives on the feasibility and acceptability of self-testing for HIV, Hepatitis and Syphilis among young people: Qualitative findings from a pilot study in Gaborone, Botswana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Nambusi K, Gbolahan A, Maureen SM

INTRODUCTION: Little is known regarding the attitudes and perspectives of young people and healthcare workers in Botswana about dual self-testing for HIV and STIs including its acceptability, or their perceptions of the opportunities and limitations of this approach. METHODS: From July to November 2021, 25 young people and 6 healthcare workers were purposively sampled for in-depth telephone interviews conducted in English or Setswana. The interviews followed a semi-structured topic guide, were audio recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically using deviant case and constant comparative techniques. The study was part of a pilot project evaluating dual self-testing for HIV and STIs among young people in Gaborone. RESULTS: We found that most of the young people were already aware of their HIV status and were motivated to participate in self-testing mainly because they were interested in learning their STI status. Whilst most were excited about the autonomy and convenience offered by self-testing, some participants expressed nervousness particularly of the finger-prick process, and preferred healthcare worker-administered tests. Both young people and healthcare workers raised concerns about the potential negative mental health outcomes of unexpected test results and emphasized the importance of pre- and post-test counselling and seamless linkage to care. CONCLUSION: Dual self-testing for HIV and STIs has the potential to empower young people to take control of their sexual health. However, it is crucial to ensure that proper support and counselling services are in place, along with effective mechanisms for linkage to care. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating pre- and post-test counselling into self-testing programs to ensure that young people feel adequately supported throughout the testing process. By doing so, self-testing can become a valuable tool for improving the sexual health outcomes of young people in Botswana.

621. Media coverage, fake news, and the diffusion of xenophobic violence: A fine-grained county-level analysis of the geographic and temporal patterns of arson attacks during the German refugee crisis 2015-2017.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Hinz T, Walzenbach S, Laufer J

Over the year of 2015, about 800.000 refugees arrived in Germany, a number which equals around one percent of the total population. This migration process was labelled the refugee crisis and was accompanied by a contested debate. On the one hand, there was a widespread willingness to voluntarily help arriving refugees, on the other hand, the number of xenophobic attacks against refugees drastically increased. Our paper will focus on a specific form of xenophobic violence with a strong symbolic meaning: We analyze how arson attacks against collective accommodation facilities spread. Using a comprehensive web chronicle, we collected temporal and spatial data about arson attacks perpetrated on accommodations or facilities for refugees in Germany between 2015 and 2017. We counted 251 attacks, assigned each incident location to its county, merged county characteristics such as population size, proportion of foreigners, right-wing party support, and-going beyond previous research-added geographically coded media data from two digital archives. Besides newspaper contents of a popular nation-wide tabloid, we use a data base that covers local fake news on refugees. Based on these data, we constructed a balanced panel data set with the counties as geographical units and periods of 14 days as the time dimension. Results indicate that social contagion drives the diffusion process of arson attacks. Spatial proximity of previous attacks increased the propensity of attacks in the neighboring counties. Attacks were more likely to occur in counties with larger populations and fewer foreigners. While local newspaper coverage did not impact the diffusion of xenophobic attacks, fake news were relevant-but only in East Germany. We also considered two particularly salient threatening events that received nation-wide media attention, namely Merkel's "border opening" on the 5th of September 2015 and the sexual assaults occurring during New Year's 2015/16 in Cologne. Both were followed by temporary increases in violence.

622. Indoor running temporal variability for different running speeds, treadmill inclinations, and three different estimation strategies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Zignoli A, Godin A, Mourot L.

Inertial measurement units (IMU) constitute a light and cost-effective alternative to gold-standard measurement systems in the assessment of running temporal variables. IMU data collected on 20 runners running at different speeds (80, 90, 100, 110 and 120% of preferred running speed) and treadmill inclination (±2, ±5, and ±8%) were used here to predict the following temporal variables: stride frequency, duty factor, and two indices of running variability such as the detrended fluctuation analysis alpha (DFA-α) and the Higuchi's D (HG-D). Three different estimation methodologies were compared: 1) a gold-standard optoelectronic device (which provided the reference values), 2) IMU placed on the runner's feet, 3) a single IMU on the runner's thorax used in conjunction with a machine learning algorithm with a short 2-second or a long 120-second window as input. A two-way ANOVA was used to test the presence of significant (p<0.05) differences due to the running condition or to the estimation methodology. The findings of this study suggest that using both IMU configurations for estimating stride frequency can be effective and comparable to the gold-standard. Additionally, the results indicate that the use of a single IMU on the thorax with a machine learning algorithm can lead to more accurate estimates of duty factor than the strategy of the IMU on the feet. However, caution should be exercised when using these techniques to measure running variability indices. Estimating DFA-α from a short 2-second time window was possible only in level running but not in downhill running and it could not accurately estimate HG-D across all running conditions. By taking a long 120-second window a machine learning algorithm could improve the accuracy in the estimation of DFA-α in all running conditions. By taking these factors into account, researchers and practitioners can make informed decisions about the use of IMU technology in measuring running biomechanics.

623. Monitoring the elasticity of travel demand with respect to changes in the transport network for better policy decisions during disasters.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Safitri ND, Chikaraishi M.

When a disaster occurs, disaster management goes through a number of phases, namely normal, emergency response, adaptation, and recovery. Being able to identify the transition between these phases would be useful for policymakers, for example, in order to shift their focus from meeting the travel needs of affected people during the emergency response phase, to meeting travel needs for adaptation and recovery activities. This study proposes a data-driven method which may be useful for assessing phase transitions for transport management during a disaster. Specifically, we argue that changes in elasticities of travel demand with respect to changes in the transport network can be a useful indicator of phase transition, since they depict changes in consumers' tastes, i.e., changes in the degree of travel necessity during disaster. Two hypotheses are formulated to investigate the changes in elasticity during a disaster: 1) the elasticity of travel demand is more elastic soon after a disaster as travel becomes a luxury good, and 2) it becomes less elastic afterwards as travel goes back to being a necessity good. To empirically confirm the hypotheses, we develop a multilevel log-log linear model, where the transport network service level information varying over time during a disaster is used as an explanatory variable, and tested mobile phone location and transport network data captured during the heavy rain disaster in Japan in July 2018. We also utilized a change point detection algorithm to identify a structural change that occurred in these elasticities. We confirm that our empirical results support our hypotheses, i.e., in the affected areas, the elasticity was more elastic soon after the disaster, while the elasticity tended to go back to normal around one month later. These results suggest that the proposed method can be useful to judge the phase transition for disaster management.

624. Exome sequencing reveals IFT172 variants in patients with non-syndromic cholestatic liver disease.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Neřoldová M, Ciara E, Slatinská J

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Gene defects contribute to the aetiology of intrahepatic cholestasis. We aimed to explore the outcome of whole-exome sequencing (WES) in a cohort of 51 patients with this diagnosis. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Both paediatric (n = 33) and adult (n = 18) patients with cholestatic liver disease of unknown aetiology were eligible. WES was used for reassessment of 34 patients (23 children) without diagnostic genotypes in ABCB11, ATP8B1, ABCB4 or JAG1 demonstrable by previous Sanger sequencing, and for primary assessment of additional 17 patients (10 children). Nasopharyngeal swab mRNA was analysed to address variant pathogenicity in two families. RESULTS: WES revealed biallelic variation in 3 ciliopathy genes (PKHD1, TMEM67 and IFT172) in 4 clinically unrelated index subjects (3 children and 1 adult), heterozygosity for a known variant in PPOX in one adult index subject, and homozygosity for an unreported splice-site variation in F11R in one child. Whereas phenotypes of the index patients with mutated PKHD1, TMEM67, and PPOX corresponded with those elsewhere reported, how F11R variation underlies liver disease remains unclear. Two unrelated patients harboured different novel biallelic variants in IFT172, a gene implicated in short-rib thoracic dysplasia 10 and Bardet-Biedl syndrome 20. One patient, a homozygote for IFT172 rs780205001 c.167A>C p.(Lys56Thr) born to first cousins, had liver disease, interpreted on biopsy aged 4y as glycogen storage disease, followed by adult-onset nephronophthisis at 25y. The other, a compound heterozygote for novel frameshift variant IFT172 NM_015662.3 c.2070del p.(Met690Ilefs*11) and 2 syntenic missense variants IFT172 rs776310391 c.157T>A p.(Phe53Ile) and rs746462745 c.164C>G p.(Thr55Ser), had a severe 8mo cholestatic episode in early infancy, with persisting hyperbilirubinemia and fibrosis on imaging studies at 17y. No patient had skeletal malformations. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest association of IFT172 variants with non-syndromic cholestatic liver disease.

625. Global long-term trends and spatial cluster analysis of pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality over a 30-year period using the global burden of disease study 2019 data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Amini M, Azizmohammad Looha M, Rahimi Pordanjani S

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most fatal malignancies, and its incidence and mortality rates are growing annually throughout the world. In this research, we aimed to investigate the time trends and identify the spatial clusters of incidence and mortality on a global scale over the last 30 years, using the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019 data. METHODS: Age-standardized incidence and mortality data due to PC were extracted from the GBD study, which was carried out from 1990 to 2019. A Joinpoint regression analysis was utilized to examine trends in the incidence and mortality of PC over the past three decades. As such, spatial analyses were undertaken to detect the spatial distribution and clustering of the metrics globally. RESULTS: It was observed that both the incidence and mortality rates were higher in males than in females worldwide. The global mortality and incidence rates significantly increased by 0.8% per year over the time of follow-up period (p<0.05). By spatial cluster analysis for mortality, European and North African countries, as well as Greenland were explored as hot spots; while South African and Southeast Asian countries were explored as cold spots. Regarding incidence, hot spots were found in European countries, Southern America, and Greenland; whilst cold spots were determined in Southern Africa and Madagascar. CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, the temporal trends disclosed a gradual rise in PC incidence and mortality rates over the period 1990-2019, reflecting the global health concern. We further found geographical variations in the patterns and identified high- and low-risk areas for incidence and mortality. These findings facilitate the design and implementation of more resource-efficient and geographically targeted treatments. Given the results of the current study, a practical approach to minimizing the future PC burden involves planned population-wide interventions, as well as primary prevention through healthier lifestyles.

626. The AMP deaminase of the mollusk Helix pomatia is an unexpected member of the adenosine deaminase-related growth factor (ADGF) family.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Tzertzinis G, Ganatra MB, Ruse C

627. Study protocol: How does cognitive flexibility relate to other executive functions and learning in healthy young adults?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Tong K, Chan YN, Cheng X

BACKGROUND: Cognitive flexibility (CF) enables individuals to readily shift from one concept or mode of practice/thoughts to another in response to changes in the environment and feedback, making CF vital to optimise success in obtaining goals. However, how CF relates to other executive functions (e.g., working memory, response inhibition), mental abilities (e.g., creativity, literacy, numeracy, intelligence, structure learning), and social factors (e.g., multilingualism, tolerance of uncertainty, perceived social support, social decision-making) is less well understood. The current study aims to (1) establish the construct validity of CF in relation to other executive function skills and intelligence, and (2) elucidate specific relationships between CF, structure learning, creativity, career decision making and planning, and other life skills. METHODS: This study will recruit up to 400 healthy Singaporean young adults (age 18-30) to complete a wide range of cognitive tasks and social questionnaires/tasks. The richness of the task/questionnaire battery and within-participant administration enables us to use computational modelling and structural equation modelling to examine connections between the latent constructs of interest. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT: The current study is the first systematic investigation into the construct validity of CF and its interrelationship with other important cognitive skills such as learning and creativity, within an Asian context. The study will further explore the concept of CF as a non-unitary construct, a novel theoretical proposition in the field. The inclusion of a structure learning paradigm is intended to inform future development of a novel intervention paradigm to enhance CF. Finally, the results of the study will be useful for informing classroom pedagogy and the design of lifelong learning policies and curricula, as part of the wider remit of the Cambridge-NTU Centre for Lifelong Learning and Individualised Cognition (CLIC).

628. Doing our best and doing no harm: A focused ethnography of staff moral experiences of providing palliative care at a Médecins Sans Frontières pediatric hospital in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Yantzi R, Hadiuzzaman M, Sen Gupta PK

INTRODUCTION: The Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Goyalmara Hospital in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh is a referral centre offering the highest level of care available in the Rohingya camps for pediatrics and neonatology. Efforts are underway to integrate pediatric palliative care due to high mortality and medical complexity of patients, yet little is known about the experiences of staff delivering palliative and end-of-life care. The purpose of this study was to understand the moral experiences of MSF staff to inform program planning and implementation. METHODS: This focused ethnography was conducted between March-August 2021 at Goyalmara Hospital. Data collection involved participant-observation, individual interviews (22), focus group discussions (5), and analysis of documents including MSF clinical guidelines, admission and referral criteria, reports, and training materials. Data analysis followed a modified version of the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven and data were coded using NVivo software. RESULTS: The prevailing understanding of pediatric palliative care among national and international staff was care that prioritized comfort for infants and children who were not expected to survive. Staff's views were informed by their sense of obligation to do no harm, to do their best on behalf of their patients, and religious beliefs about God's role in determining the child's outcome. The authority of doctors, international staff, as well as protocols and guidelines shaped palliative care decision-making. Staff saw clinical guidelines as valuable resources that supported a consistent approach to care over time, while others were concerned that palliative care guidelines were rigidly applied. CONCLUSION: When integrating palliative care into humanitarian programs, it is important to emphasize the active role of palliative care in reducing suffering. Advocacy for access to the highest level of care possible should continue alongside palliative care integration. While palliative care guidelines are valuable, it is essential to encourage open discussion of staff concerns and adapt care plans based on the family's needs and preferences.

629. Coping with the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study to investigate how mental health, lifestyle, and socio-demographic factors shape students' quality of life.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Bou-Hamad I, Hoteit R, Hijazi S

PURPOSE: The high prevalence of COVID-19 has had an impact on the Quality of Life (QOL) of people across the world, particularly students. The purpose of this study was to investigate the social, lifestyle, and mental health aspects that are associated with QOL among university students in Lebanon. METHODS: A cross-sectional study design was implemented using a convenience sampling approach. Data collection took place between November 2021 and February 2022, involving 329 undergraduate and graduate students from private and public universities. Quality of life was assessed using the Quality-of-Life Scale (QOLS). Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, and linear regression-based methods were used to analyze the association between QOL and socio-demographic, health-related, lifestyle, and mental health factors. The significance level for statistical analysis was predetermined at α = 0.05. RESULTS: The study participants' average (SD) QOL score was 76.03 (15.6) with a Cronbach alpha of 0.911. QOL was positively associated with importance of religion in daily decisions (β = 6.40, p = 0.006), household income (β = 5.25, p = 0.017), general health ratings (β Excellent/poor = 23.52, p <0.001), access to private counseling (β = 4.05, p = 0.020), physical exercise (β = 6.67, p <0.001), and a healthy diet (β = 4.62, p = 0.026); and negatively associated with cigarette smoking (β increased = -6.25, p = 0.030), internet use (β ≥4 hours = -7.01, p = 0.005), depression (β = -0.56, p = 0.002) and stress (β = -0.93, p <0.001). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this study reveals the key factors that positively and negatively influence students' quality of life (QOL). Factors such as religion, higher income, and a healthy diet improve QOL, while depression, stress, excessive internet use, and cigarette smoking negatively impact it. Universities should prioritize initiatives like physical activity promotion, affordable nutritious options, destigmatizing mental health, counseling services, and self-help interventions to support student well-being and enhance their QOL.

630. Functional and structural outcomes and complications after pars plana vitrectomy for severe features of proliferative diabetic retinopathy in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Kaźmierczak K, Żuchowski P, Stafiej J

PURPOSE: To evaluate the functional and structural outcomes as well as postoperative complications after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for severe features of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. METHODS: Twenty two eyes of type 1 diabetics (DM1 group) and 27 eyes of type 2 diabetics (DM2 group) were included. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), postoperative structural changes in optical coherence tomography (OCT) and postoperative complications such as recurrent vitreous haemorrhage, diabetic macular oedema, secondary glaucoma and persistent tractional retinal detachment (TRD) were assessed and compared between the two groups. RESULTS: Complete reattachment of retina was achieved in 88.9% from the DM1 group and in 95.5% from the DM2 group and remained attached in follow-up. BCVA in DM2 group was significantly lower preoperatively (p = 0.04). Mean postoperative BCVA significantly improved in both studied groups, but it was more evident in eyes of type 2 diabetics compared to type 1 diabetics. In eyes in the DM1 group there was perceptible stabilisation of BCVA. Poor visual acuity or lack of improvement in BCVA in the DM1 group was related to preoperative subretinal haemorrhage in macular region, and TRD involving macula, whereas in the DM2 group-to preoperative subretinal haemorrhage and neovascular glaucoma. The postoperative structural changes (disruption of EZ and ELM) were observed more often in DM2 group, but had the greatest impact on BCVA in eyes of type 1 DM. Complications after PPV for PDR were rare and hadn't a significant influence on the final functional outcomes in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Functional improvement after PPV for severe features of proliferative diabetic retinopathy were more noticeable in patients with type 2 DM. Postoperative structural changes had more negative impact on BCVA in type 1 diabetics.

631. Classification of multiple emotional states from facial expressions in head-fixed mice using a deep learning-based image analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Tanaka Y, Nakata T, Hibino H

632. Stigma and discrimination against transgender men in Bhutan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Saxena V, Xu A, Kinley K

BACKGROUND: While transgender people worldwide face high rates of stigma and discrimination, there are few studies of transgender men (also "trans men") in Asia. We measured the prevalence of, and factors associated with, stigma and discrimination faced by trans men in Bhutan to bring visibility to their experiences and inform health and social policy changes. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey was conducted in nine regions in Bhutan from November 2019 to January 2020. A total of 124 trans men were recruited using a hybrid venue-based and peer-referral approach. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression characterized associations with experiencing stigma and discrimination when accessing health services. FINDINGS: Participants were young (48.0% 18-24 years) and 48.4% had migrated from a rural to an urban area. The majority (95.2%) experienced stigma because people knew or thought they were trans men. Associations with frequent experiences of stigma were living with their partner as a couple (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 3.07, 95% CI 1.27-7.44) and being unemployed or a student (3.22, 1.44-7.19). Nearly half (47.6%) said they experienced discrimination when accessing health care because people knew or thought they were a trans man; this experience was associated with migration (2.42, 1.08-5.39) and having >15 trans men in their social network (3.73, 1.69-8.26). Most (94.4%) experienced verbal violence, 10.5% experienced physical violence, and 4.8% experienced sexual violence. INTERPRETATION: Our study found high rates of stigma, discrimination, and interpersonal violence due to being a trans man in Bhutan. Findings highlight the urgent need for strengthening laws and regulations to protect the rights of transgender persons, particularly when accessing health services, recognizing partnerships, and preventing violence in public spaces.

633. Enhancement of germination and yield of cotton through optical seed priming: Lab. and diverse environment studies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Atta BM, Saleem M, Abro S

The current study demonstrates the practical application of optical seed priming technology to improve cotton seed germination, plant growth, crop yield, and fiber quality. The hypothesis of this study is that seed irradiation with different colors of light can improve germination and cotton productivity in different environments. In the priming of cotton seeds, a wider range of the light spectrum was used, ranging from ultraviolet (UV) to red wavelengths. Various light sources such as blue LED, red LED, diode laser, UV-B, and UV-C were studied, along with different exposure times and energy densities. The exposure time ranged from 1.0 to 36.0 minutes, while the energy density doses varied from 88 to 7550 mJ cm-2, depending on the light source. In laboratory conditions, the investigation on the impact of optical seed priming on germination showed a maximum improvement of up to 180% compared to the control group. Among the different light sources and energy densities, blue LED light was found to be the most effective for enhancing cotton seed germination across different varieties. To validate the findings from the laboratory, large-scale field trials were conducted in two different environments in Pakistan, namely Tandojam and Faisalabad. The field trials demonstrated significant improvements in germination and yield, with increases of up to 37% and 74% over the control group, respectively. Once again, blue LED light emerged as the best light source for optical seed priming at the farm level. These field trials provided encouraging results, indicating the potential of the eco-friendly optical seed priming technique. The study suggests that optical seed priming can be a commercially viable technology for improving cotton seed germination, plant growth, crop yield, and fiber quality. By utilizing this technique, growers and researchers in developing countries can address the challenge of poor cotton germination and potentially enhance their agricultural productivity.

634. Assessment of temporomandibular disorders and their relationship with life quality and salivary biomarkers in patients with dentofacial deformities: A clinical observational study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Crescente BB, Bisatto NV, Rübensam G

635. Out-of-pocket costs for families and people living with cerebral palsy in Australia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Henry G, Webb A, Galea C

The most recent cost estimates of cerebral palsy (CP) in Australia did not include out-of-pocket costs for families. This study aimed to: 1) describe and estimate out-of-pocket costs for people with CP and their families by age and gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) level; 2) measure financial distress. A cross-sectional quantitative survey design was used with qualitative approaches to analyse open-ended questions. A CP-specific out-of-pocket costs survey was co-designed with people with lived experience. Adults with CP and carers were recruited from Australian population-based CP Registers and via social media. Sociodemographic variables were analysed descriptively and median (IQR) expenses for health, assistive technology, personal care, housing, occupation, transport, leisure, respite and holidays, by age (0-6; 7-17; 18 years +) and gross motor function [GMFCS level I-II vs III-V] were calculated. The In Charge Financial Distress/Financial Wellbeing Scale measured financial distress. Regression analyses were conducted to investigate costs and financial distress. Additional out-of-pocket costs itemised in open-ended questions were charted. Comments were thematically analysed using the framework approach. 271 surveys were completed for children 0-6 years (n = 47), children/adolescents 7-17 years (n = 124) and adults (n = 100). 94% of participants had out-of-pocket costs associated with CP, with an overall annual median of $4,460 Australian dollars (IQR $11,955). After controlling for income, private insurance and disability funding, the GMFCS III-V group had costs two times higher than the GMFCS I-II group (2.01; 95% CI 1.15-3.51). Age was not significantly associated with costs. 36% of participants had high to overwhelming financial distress; this was not associated with age or GMFCS level after controlling for financial factors. Families had several additional disability costs. Open-ended responses revealed experiences of financial concern were influenced by funding scheme experiences, reduced income, uncertainty, access to support networks and an inability to afford CP-related costs. Cost estimates and financial distress indicators should inform policy, funding and clinical decisions when planning interventions to support people with CP and their families.

636. Time to death and its predictors among under-five children on antiretroviral treatment in public hospitals of Addis Ababa, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a retrospective follow up study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Mekonnen E, Arega M, Belay DM

BACKGROUND: Child mortality remains a global public health problem, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. After initiating ART, the mortality rate among HIV-infected children in Ethiopia was 12-17 deaths per 1000 child-year. OBJECTIVE: To determine the time to death and its predictors among under-five children on antiretroviral treatment in public hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from April 12, 2017, to May 12, 2022. METHOD: An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 415 HIV-infected children at selected public hospitals of the Addis Ababa town administration. Computer generated simple random sampling technique was used to select each sampling unit. Data was extracted using a structured data extraction checklist. Data were entered into EPI data 4.2 and analyzed using STATA 14. The child mortality rate was calculated. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was fitted to identify predictor factors. The result of the study was presented using text, tables, graphs, and charts. An adjusted hazard ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value less than 0.05 was used to declare the level of significance. RESULT: A total of 415 (97.42%) of the 426 children on ART were included for analysis. Of these, 41(9.88%) children were died during the following period. The study participants were followed for a total of 8237 person- months of risk time. The overall mortality rate was 4.98 (95% CI: 3.67-6.77) per 1000 child-months. The estimated survival after starting ART was 61.42% at 56 months of follow-up. Severe underweight (AHR = 3.19; 95% CI: 1.32-7.71), tuberculosis (AHR = 3.86; CI: 1.76-8.47), low hemoglobin level (AHR = 2.51; CI: 1.02-6.20), and advanced WHO clinical stages at enrolment (AHR = 3.38; CI: 1.08-10.58) were predictors of death among HIV-infected under-five children on ART. CONCLUSION: The incidence of mortality was 4.98 per 1000 child-months. Severe underweight, tuberculosis infection, low hemoglobin level, and advanced WHO clinical stages at enrolment were predictors of death among under-five children on ART.

637. Prevalence and distribution of Plasmodium vivax Duffy Binding Protein gene duplications in Sudan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Ahmed S, Pestana K, Ford A

638. A risk scoring model of COVID-19 at hospital admission.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Gomes JJF, Ferreira A, Alves A

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most serious public health crisis in recent times, a pandemic whose impact was felt across the globe in various groups and populations. Confronted with an urgent problem, people and governments were forced to make decisions without fully understanding the disease. The present work aims to reinforce our ever-growing knowledge of the illness, particularly in modelling the risk of death of a patient admitted to a hospital with a positive COVID-19 test. METHODS: Given the simplicity of using and programming logistic regression in any national healthcare unit and the ease of interpreting the results, we chose to use this technique over several other. Using scoring techniques, it is possible to associate the various diagnoses with a numerical value (score), making it possible therefore to integrate the patient's multiple medical conditions as a single continuous variable in the model. RESULTS: It is possible to establish with good discriminatory capacity (ROC AUC Test = 0.8) which COVID patients are at higher risk when admitted to the healthcare unit-people of advanced age with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, or newly acquired conditions, such as pneumonia. Moreover, males and clinical episodes occurring in healthcare units with few available beds (high healthcare unit occupancy) are also at higher risk. The importance of each variable in predicting the target is: age (47%), sum of comorbidity scores (28%), healthcare unit score (12.0%), gender score (7%) and healthcare unit occupancy (6%). CONCLUSIONS: Using a dataset with more than 52000 people, it was possible to successfully differentiate likelihood of death by COVID using age, comorbidity information, healthcare unit, healthcare unit occupancy and gender. The age and the comorbidities associated with each patient had a joint contribution of about 75% in explaining the COVID related mortality in Portuguese public hospitals in the period between March 2020 and May 2021.

639. Radioactive contamination in feral dogs in the Chernobyl exclusion zone: Population body-burden survey and implications for human radiation exposure.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Hecla J, Kambarian E, Tubbs R

640. Bone mineral density among children living with HIV failing first-line anti-retroviral therapy in Uganda: A sub-study of the CHAPAS-4 trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Natukunda E, Szubert A, Otike C

BACKGROUND: Children living with perinatally acquired HIV (CLWH) survive into adulthood on antiretroviral therapy (ART). HIV, ART, and malnutrition can all lead to low bone mineral density (BMD). Few studies have described bone health among CLWH in Sub-Saharan Africa. We determined the prevalence and factors associated with low BMD among CLWH switching to second-line ART in the CHAPAS-4 trial (ISRCTN22964075) in Uganda. METHODS: BMD was determined using dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). BMD Z-scores were adjusted for age, sex, height and race. Demographic characteristics were summarized using median interquartile range (IQR) for continuous variables and proportions for categorical variables. Logistic regression was used to determine the associations between each variable and low BMD. RESULTS: A total of 159 children were enrolled (50% male) with median age (IQR) 10 (7-12) years, median duration of first -line ART 5.2(3.3-6.8) years; CD4 count 774 (528-1083) cells/mm3, weight-for-age Z-score -1.36 (-2.19, -0.65) and body mass index Z-score (BMIZ) -1.31 (-2.06, -0.6). Low (Z-score≤ -2) total body less head (TBLH) BMD was observed in 28 (18%) children, 21(13%) had low lumbar spine (LS) BMD, and15 (9%) had both. Low TBLH BMD was associated with increasing age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.37; 95% CI: 1.13-1.65, p = 0.001), female sex (aOR: 3.8; 95% CL: 1.31-10.81, p = 0.014), low BMI (aOR 0.36:95% CI: 0.21-0.61, p<0.001), and first-line zidovudine exposure (aOR: 3.68; 95% CI: 1.25-10.8, p = 0.018). CD4 count, viral load and first- line ART duration were not associated with TBLH BMD. Low LS BMD was associated with increasing age (aOR 1.42; 95% CI: 1.16-1.74, p = 0.001) and female sex: (aOR 3.41; 95% CI: 1.18-9.8, p = 0.023). CONCLUSION: Nearly 20% CLWH failing first-line ART had low BMD which was associated with female sex, older age, first-line ZDV exposure, and low BMI. Prevention, monitoring, and implications following transition to adult care should be prioritized to identify poor bone health in HIV+adolescents entering adulthood.

641. Cryptic functional diversity within a grass mycobiome.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Ndinga-Muniania C, Wornson N, Fulcher MR

642. Design and analysis of photovoltaic/wind operations at MPPT for hydrogen production using a PEM electrolyzer: Towards innovations in green technology.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Awad M, Mahmoud MM, Elbarbary ZMS

643. Key pathological features characterize minimal change disease-like IgA nephropathy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Wang TY, Chang FP, Yang AH

644. Promotion and prevention regulatory focus LIWC dictionary. Polish adaptation and validation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Marszałek M, Miązek A, Roczniewska M.

645. Association of chronic neutrophil activation with risk of mortality.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Penn MS, MacRae C, Goldfaden RF

646. Making things work-In spite of a pandemic small scale enterprise managers' approach to business changes and health issues.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Landstad BJ, Hedlund M, Tjulin Å

647. Development of EST-SSRs based on the transcriptome of Castanopsis carlesii and cross-species transferability in other Castanopsis species.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Zhong X, Xu M, Li T

Castanopsis carlesii (Hemsl.) Hay. is a widely distributed and dominant tree species native to subtropical China with significant ecological and economic value. Due to serious human-related disturbance, its wild resources have been increasingly reduced, and whether may result in the loss of genetic diversity. However, no population genetics studies of natural C. carlesii have been reported to date. Microsatellite markers have been a useful tool in population genetics. Therefore, we developed EST-SSR markers based on the transcriptome sequencing of C. carlesii leaves. A total of 149,380,224 clean reads were obtained, and 63,012 nonredundant unigenes with a mean length of 1,034 bp were assembled and annotated based on sequence similarity searches in the Nr, Nt, KO, SwissProt, PFAM, KOG, and GO databases. The results showed that only 5,559 (8.82%) unigenes were annotated in all seven databases, but 46,338 (73.53%) could be annotated in at least one database. A total of 31,459 potential EST-SSRs were identified in 18,690 unigenes, with an average frequency of one SSR approximately 2 kb. Among the 100 EST-SSR primer pairs designed, 49 primer pairs successfully produced the expected product by amplification, with a success rate of 49%, but only 20 primer pairs showed abundant polymorphisms. Polymorphisms were verified using 25 samples from C. carlesii in Qimen, Anhui. A total of 119 alleles were detected, with a mean number of alleles (Na) of 5.95 per locus and a mean polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.6125. All the 20 newly developed EST-SSR markers were verified in other Castanopsis species (C. sclerophylla, C. lamontii, C. fargesii, C. eyrei and C. jucunda). Sixteen primer pairs showed successful amplification in all five Castanopsis species (80%), and the transferability ratios ranged from 90% to 100%. These developed EST-SSR markers can be applied to population genetic and germplasm evaluations of C. carlesii and related species.

648. Long Covid active case finding study protocol: A co-produced community-based pilot within the STIMULATE-ICP study (Symptoms, Trajectory, Inequalities and Management: Understanding Long-COVID to Address and Transform Existing Integrated Care Pathways).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Alwan NA, Clutterbuck D, Pantelic M

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Long Covid is a significant public health concern with potentially negative implications for health inequalities. We know that those who are already socially disadvantaged in society are more exposed to COVID-19, experience the worst health outcomes and are more likely to suffer economically. We also know that these groups are more likely to experience stigma and have negative healthcare experiences even before the pandemic. However, little is known about disadvantaged groups' experiences of Long Covid, and preliminary evidence suggests they may be under-represented in those who access formal care. We will conduct a pilot study in a defined geographical area in London, United Kingdom to test the feasibility of a community-based approach of identifying Long Covid cases that have not been clinically diagnosed and have not been referred to Long Covid specialist services. We will explore the barriers to accessing recognition, care, and support, as well as experiences of stigma and perceived discrimination. METHODS: This protocol and study materials were co-produced with a Community Advisory Board (CAB) made up primarily of people living with Long Covid. Working with voluntary organisations, a study leaflet will be distributed in the local community to highlight Long Covid symptoms and invite those experiencing them to participate in the study if they are not formally diagnosed. Potential participants will be assessed according to the study's inclusion criteria and offered the opportunity to participate if they fit them. Awareness of Long Covid and associated symptoms, experiences of trying to access care, as well as stigma and discrimination will be explored through qualitative interviews with participants. Upon completion of the interviews, participants will be offered a referral to the local social prescribing team to receive support that is personalised to them potentially including, but not restricted to, liaising with their primary care provider and the regional Long Covid clinic.

649. Effects of turmeric (Curcuma longa) supplementation on glucose metabolism in diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome: An umbrella review and updated meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Pathomwichaiwat T, Jinatongthai P, Prommasut N

650. Geographical and spatial variations in bowel cancer screening participation, Australia, 2015-2020.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Dasgupta P, Cameron JK, Goodwin B

651. "Help! I need some music!": Analysing music discourse & depression on Reddit.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Singh B, Vaswani K, Paruchuri S

652. Boldness, activity, and aggression: Insights from a large-scale study in Baltic salmon (Salmo salar L).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Axling J, Vossen LE, Peterson E

Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) display high levels of agonistic behavior in aquaculture farms, resulting in fin damage and chronic stress. Aggression affects fish growth and performance negatively, and presents a serious welfare problem. Indeed, it would be beneficial to identify, separate or exclude overly aggressive individuals. Research on behavioral syndromes suggests that aggressive behavior may correlate with other behavioral traits, such as boldness and locomotory activity. We aimed to develop a high-throughput method to quantify and predict aggressive behavior of individual parr in hatchery-reared Baltic salmon (Salmo salar L.). We screened approximately 2000 parr in open field (OF) and mirror image stimulation (MIS) tests. We extracted seven variables from video tracking software for each minute of the tests; distance moved and duration moving (activity), the duration in and number of entries to the center of the arena (boldness), the distance moved in and duration spent in the area adjacent to the mirror during the MIS test (aggressiveness) and head direction (lateralization). To investigate the relationship between activity, boldness and aggression we first correlated the first six variables to one another. Second, we assigned individuals to high, medium, low or zero aggression groups based on the MIS test and quantified activity and boldness in each group. Third, we analyzed whether the fish viewed the mirror with the left or right eye. Our results show that medium and low aggressive fish were the most active, while highly aggressive fish showed average activity. Aggressive groups did not differ in boldness. Activity and boldness were positively correlated. Finally, we detected a preference for fish to view the mirror with the left eye. We conclude that aggressiveness cannot be predicted from the results of the OF test alone but that the MIS test can be used for large-scale individual aggression profiling of juvenile salmon.

653. Predictors of Turkish individuals' online shopping adoption: An empirical study on regional difference.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Ünver Ş, Aydemir AF, Alkan Ö.

654. Exploring factors influencing nurses' attitudes towards their role in dental care.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Gaffar B, Bakhurji E, AlKhateeb R

655. Simultaneous molecular detection of Anaplasma marginale and Theileria annulata in cattle blood samples collected from Pakistan-Afghanistan boarder region.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Jamil S, Chiou CC, Muqaddas H

Theileria annulata (T. annulata) and Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) are among the most extensively reported tick borne pathogens and are associated with huge economic losses worldwide. A total of 298 cattle blood samples were screened to report the presence of these two pathogens. The samples were collected from apparently healthy cattle (Achai, n = 155, Jersy, n = 88 and crossbred, n = 55) in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) during June and July of 2022. A total of 31 out of 298 cattle (10.4%) were found infected with T. annulata as PCR amplified a 156 base pair fragment from Tams-1 gene of T. annulata from their blood. While 16/298 animals (5.4%) were found infected with A. marginale as they amplified a 382 base pair fragment specific for msp5 gene of this bacterium. Three animals (1%) were found co infected. Cattle susceptibility to T. annulata infection was significantly higher than A. marginale infection (P < 0.001). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Pakistani isolates of both detected pathogen clustered together and were closely related isolates from worldwide countries. Prevalence of T. annulata varied significantly among the sampling sites (P = 0.05) while no such association was observed for A. marginale among the tested cattle. Epidemiological data analysis revealed that none of the studied risk factors was found associated either with the prevalence of T. annulata or A. marginale (P > 0.05) among enrolled cattle. In conclusion, our study has revealed a relatively higher prevalence of T. annulata than A. marginale in cattle from the Bajaur district in KPK. This information is important for improving the productivity of the livestock sector, which is one of the main sources of income in the country. It is recommended that this data be taken into account for the development and implementation of effective tick control programs, as well as for the improvement of livestock management practices to prevent and manage TBDs in Pakistan.

656. Prolonged hypothermic storage of oocytes of the European common frog Rana temporaria in a gas mixture of oxygen and carbon monoxide.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Gagarinskiy E, Uteshev V, Fesenko E Jr.

657. A novel application of statistical process control charts in financial market surveillance with the idea of profile monitoring.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Yeganeh A, Shongwe SC.

658. Adaptive experimental design produces superior and more efficient estimates of predator functional response.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Papanikolaou NE, Moffat H, Fantinou A

659. Incarcerated individuals and education programmes in Nigeria: A task for social workers.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Uche IB, Uche OA, Okoye UO

660. Identifying opportunity, capability and motivation of Sri Lankan 5th grade schoolteachers to implement in-classroom physical activity breaks: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Peiris DLIHK, Duan Y, Vandelanotte C

BACKGROUND: Classroom-based physical activity interventions have demonstrated positive effects in reducing sedentary behaviour among school children. However, this is an understudied area, especially in low- and middle-income countries such as Sri Lanka. This study aims to explore teachers' opportunity, capability and motivation relating to the implementation of an in-classroom physical activity breaks programme. METHODS: Twenty-seven teachers were recruited through snowball sampling and participated in semi-structured telephone interviews from early-January to the mid-June 2022. The Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Behaviour (COM-B) model was used to guide and deductively thematic analyse the interviews. RESULTS: 21 out of the recruited teachers responded to the full study. The mean age of respondents was 39.24 years old ranging from 27 years to 53 years. Teaching experience of the respondents ranged from three to 37 years, and 57% were female. Three teachers had a degree with a teacher training diploma, while others were having General Certificate of Education in Advanced Level with a teacher training diploma as the highest education qualification. Capability factors such as age, dress code, mask wearing, knowledge, skills and workload of the teachers were identified as important factors in implementing a physical activity breaks intervention in a Sri Lankan classroom setting. Classroom space, facilities, student backgrounds and safety were identified as opportunity factors. Obtaining policy level decisions to implement the activity breaks and managing the time of the activities to reduce time lost in education time were identified as motivational factors. CONCLUSION: During the intervention development phase, implementation facilitators and barriers must be considered carefully. Behaviour change techniques can be utilised to address the identified COM-B factors to ensure a good implementation of the intervention.

661. Responsiveness to endurance training can be partly explained by the number of favorable single nucleotide polymorphisms an individual possesses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Chung HC, Keiller DR, Swain PM

Cardiorespiratory fitness is a key component of health-related fitness. It is a necessary focus of improvement, especially for those that have poor fitness and are classed as untrained. However, much research has shown individuals respond differentially to identical training programs, suggesting the involvement of a genetic component in individual exercise responses. Previous research has focused predominantly on a relatively low number of candidate genes and their overall influence on exercise responsiveness. However, examination of gene-specific alleles may provide a greater level of understanding. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and an individual's genotype following a field-based endurance program within a previously untrained population. Participants (age: 29 ± 7 years, height: 175 ± 9 cm, mass: 79 ± 21 kg, body mass index: 26 ± 7 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to either a training (n = 21) or control group (n = 24). The training group completed a periodized running program for 8-weeks (duration: 20-30-minutes per session, intensity: 6-7 Borg Category-Ratio-10 scale rating, frequency: 3 sessions per week). Both groups completed a Cooper 12-minute run test to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness at baseline, mid-study, and post-study. One thousand single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were assessed via saliva sample collections. Cooper run distance showed a significant improvement (0.23 ± 0.17 km [11.51 ± 9.09%], p < 0.001, ES = 0.48 [95%CI: 0.16-0.32]), following the 8-week program, whilst controls displayed no significant changes (0.03 ± 0.15 km [1.55 ± 6.98%], p = 0.346, ES = 0.08, [95%CI: -0.35-0.95]). A significant portion of the inter-individual variation in Cooper scores could be explained by the number of positive alleles a participant possessed (r = 0.92, R2 = 0.85, p < 0.001). These findings demonstrate the relative influence of key allele variants on an individual's responsiveness to endurance training.

662. The Dutch chronic lower limb-threatening ischemia registry (THRILLER): A study protocol for popliteal and infrapopliteal endovascular interventions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Nugteren MJ, Hazenberg CEVB, Akkersdijk GP

INTRODUCTION: Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is the end stage of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and is associated with high amputation rates, mortality and disease-related health care costs. In infrapopliteal arterial disease (IPAD), endovascular revascularization should be considered for the majority of anatomical and clinical subgroups of CLTI. However, a gap of high-quality evidence exists in this field. The aim of the Dutch Chronic Lower Limb-Threatening Ischemia Registry (THRILLER) is to collect real world data on popliteal and infrapopliteal endovascular interventions. METHODS: THRILLER is a clinician-driven, prospective, multicenter, observational registry including all consecutive patients that undergo a popliteal or infrapopliteal endovascular intervention in seven Dutch hospitals. We estimate that THRILLER will include 400-500 interventions annually. Standardized follow-up visits with wound monitoring, toe pressure measurement and duplex ultrasonography will be scheduled at 6-8 weeks and 12 months after the intervention. The independent primary endpoints are primary patency, limb salvage and amputation free survival. Patients must give informed consent before participation and will be included according to predefined reporting standards. A data log of patients who meet the inclusion criteria but are not included in the registry will be maintained. We intend to conduct the first interim analysis two years after the start of inclusion. The results will be published in a scientific journal. DISCUSSION: Despite innovations in medical therapy and revascularization techniques, patients with CLTI undergoing endovascular revascularization still have a moderate prognosis. Previous prospective cohort studies were hampered by small sample sizes or heterogeneous reporting. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have high costs, potential conflicts of interest and give a limited reflection of daily practice. THRILLER aims to provide the largest prospective well phenotyped up-to-date dataset on treatment outcomes in CLTI patients to answer multiple underexplored research questions regarding diagnostics, medication, patient selection, treatment strategies and post intervention follow-up.

663. Stroke services in MENA: What is there and what is needed.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Aref H, El Nahas N, Alrukn SA

OBJECTIVES: Stroke represents a health care challenge to most parts of the world including the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The MENA represents 6% of the world population with an age-standardized stroke rate of 87.7 (78.2-97.6) per 100,000 population. This number is subject to increase given that the cause of morbidity has recently shifted from infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases. Thus, in the coming years, treatment of stroke will pose a major burden on MENA countries which mostly lie in the low to middle income economies. Accordingly, we need to study the state of MENA stroke services in order to recognize and further inform policy makers about any gaps that need to be bridged in this domain. METHODS AND RESULTS: Stroke specialists representing 16 countries filled an online survey that included: screening for risk factors, acute management, diagnostics, medications, post-discharge services, and stroke registries. Results showed that 11 countries screen for risk factors, 16 have neuroimaging studies, 15 provide intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), 13 mechanical thrombectomy (MT) while medications for secondary prevention are available in all countries. However, stroke units are not equally available and even absent in 4 countries, and despite the availability of IVT yet, the rate of administration is still low in 6 countries (<5%), and ranges from 5-20% in 7 countries. Stroke registries and training still need to be implemented in most countries. CONCLUSION: Although imaging, revascularization therapies and medications for secondary prevention are available in most MENA countries, yet the rate of revascularization is low, so is the number of stroke units insufficient in some countries. Additionally, registries and structured training are still defective. Further field studies are required for more accurate determination of the status of stroke services in the MENA region.

664. Approximate solution of Newell-Whitehead-Segel model with time-fractional derivative.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Liu J, Nadeem M, Alsayyad Y.

665. Insights and protocols for discrimination of sugarcane clones by dissimilarity measures on RGB and NIR data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Peternelli LA, Andrade ACB.

666. Cholinergic-estrogen interaction is associated with the effect of education on attenuating cognitive sex differences in a Thai healthy population.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Chen C, Khanthiyong B, Charoenlappanit S

667. Anglers as potential vectors of aquatic invasive species: Linking inland water bodies in the Great Lakes region of the US.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Morreale SJ, Lauber TB, Stedman RC.

Unimpeded transfer and spread of invasive species throughout freshwater systems is of global concern, altering species compositions, disrupting ecosystem processes, and diverting economic resources. The magnitude and complexity of the problem is amplified by the global connectedness of human movements and the multiple modes of inter-basin transport of aquatic invasive species. Our objective was to trace the fishing behavior of anglers delineating potential pathways of transfer of invasive species throughout the vast inland waters of the Great Lakes of North America, which contain more than 21% of the world's surface freshwater and are among the most highly invaded aquatic ecosystems in the world. Combining a comprehensive survey and a spatial analysis of the movements of thousands of anglers in 12 states within the US portion of the Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Mississippi and Ohio River Basins, we estimated that 6.5 million licensed anglers in the study area embarked on an average of 30 fishing trips over the course of the year, and 70% of the individuals fished in more than one county. Geospatial linkages showed direct connections made by individuals traveling between 99% of the 894 counties where fishing occurred, and between 61 of the 66 sub-watersheds in a year. Estimated numbers of fishing trips to individual counties ranged from 1199-1.95 million; generally highest in counties bordering the Great Lakes. Of these, 79 had more than 10,000 estimated fishing trips originating from anglers living in other counties. Although angler movements are one mechanism of invasive species transfer, there likely is a high cumulative probability of invasive species transport by several million people fishing each year throughout this extensive freshwater network. A comprehensive georeferenced survey, coupled with a spatial analysis of fishing destinations, provides a potentially powerful tool to track, predict, curtail and control the transfer and proliferation of invasive species in freshwater.

668. Effect of implantable cardiac monitors on preventing stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

He J, Jiang Y, Xiao Y

669. Contradiction or harmony? Spatial and temporal relationships between new urbanization and rural revitalization in the Yellow River Basin from a coupling perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Qiao G, Wang L, Du P.

670. Validation of a parent proxy-reported beverage screener compared to a 24-hour dietary recall for the measurement of sugar-containing beverage intake among young children.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Sharpe I, Kirkpatrick SI, Smith BT

671. The burden of visual impairment among Ethiopian adult population: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Fentie D, Solomon Y, Menberu T.

BACKGROUND: Visual impairment is a public health problem in both developing and developed countries, especially, in developing countries where most visually impaired communities are found. Knowledge of the pooled prevalence of visual impairment among adults is useful in planning, preventive programs and the provision of eye-care services for communities. METHODS: Original observational studies published in English were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Eleven studies with a total sample size of 8,161 study participants were included. PubMed/Medline, HINARI, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and African Journals Online databases were used to search for published articles. Data were extracted on a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using Revman 5.4.1 Software. Meta-analysis of further pooled prevalence estimates using the inverse variance heterogeneity model. The pooled estimate of visual impairment in the current review was estimated using a random-effects model. Forest plots were used to illustrate heterogeneity and to quantify the pooled prevalence of visual impairment. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots. Visual impairment was defined as a presenting visual acuity of less than 6/18 in the betting-seen eye. RESULTS: A total of 538 studies were identified from several Databases and digital libraries, of which eleven articles were selected for the final meta-analysis. Significant heterogeneity was observed across studies, suggesting a random-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of visual impairment. The prevalence of visual impairment in Ethiopia ranges from 10.3% in Addis Ababa central Ethiopia to 37.58% in the Northern Ethiopia. The pooled prevalence of visual impairment in the current review was 22% (95% CI: 17%-27%; I2 = 97%) using a random-effects model. There was also evidence of symmetry in the funnel plots. CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a greater burden of visual impairment among Ethiopians in various study populations. Further, intervention strategies are required to reduce the burden of visual impairment and improve quality of life.

672. Prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety and stress in Malaysia during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Mud Shukri MI, Minhat HS, Ahmad N

673. Clients' perspectives on the utilization of reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health services in primary health centers during COVID-19 pandemic in 10 States of Nigeria: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Adelekan B, Goldson E, Ntoimo LFC

BACKGROUND: Reports from various parts of the world suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic may have severe adverse effects on the delivery and uptake of reproductive health, maternal, neonatal, and child health (RMNCH) services. The objective of the study was to explore women's experiences with utilization of RMNCH services during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria, and to elicit their perceptions on ways to sustain effective service delivery during the pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 2930 women using primary health care facilities for antenatal, delivery, postnatal, and child care services before and after the onset of the pandemic in 10 States of Nigeria were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were collected on women's socio-demographic characteristics and pregnancy histories, the services they sought before and after the pandemic, the challenges they faced in accessing the services, their use of alternative sources of health care, and their recommendations on ways to sustain RMNCH service delivery during the pandemic. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, and multivariable logistic regression using SPSS 20.0. All the statistical analyses were two-tailed with a 95% confidence interval, and the p-value was set at 0.05. RESULTS: The logistic regression results showed that women were at least 56% more likely to report that they used family planning, antenatal, and delivery services before the pandemic than after the pandemic started, but 38% less likely to report use of postnatal services. The experience of difficulty accessing RMNCH services was 23% more likely after the pandemic started than before the pandemic. Three categories of recommendations made by the respondents on measures to sustain RMNCH delivery during the pandemic included 1) facility improvement, and staff recruitment and re-training; 2) free and readily accessible PHC services, and 3) the provision of social safety nets including transportation and palliatives. CONCLUSION: We conclude that the COVID-19 pandemic limited women's access to antenatal, delivery, and childcare services offered in PHCs in Nigeria. Addressing the recommendations and the concerns raised by women will help to sustain the delivery of RMNCH services during the COVID-19 pandemic and future epidemics or health emergencies in Nigeria.

674. In silico designing and immunoinformatics analysis of a novel peptide vaccine against metallo-beta-lactamase (VIM and IMP) variants.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Motamedi H, Alvandi A, Fathollahi M

675. The C. elegans truncated insulin receptor DAF-2B regulates survival of L1 arrested larvae.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Martinez BA, Gill MS.

676. Evaluation of healing progression at surgical incision sites and the use of antiseptics for enhancing post-operative survival in subyearling Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Cameron AS, Rub AMW, Sandford BP.

677. Recruitment and retention interventions in surgical and wound care trials: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Arundel C, Mott A.

BACKGROUND: Recruitment and retention to surgical trials has previously been reported to be problematic, resulting in research waste. Surgery often results in wounds, meaning these trials are likely to have similar populations. There is currently no systematic assessment of effective strategies for these populations and hence, systematic assessment of these was deemed to be of importance. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted. Studies were eligible if they were randomised controlled trials undertaken to test an intervention to improve recruitment or retention within a surgical or wound based host randomised controlled trial. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ORRCA Database and the Northern Ireland Hub for Trials Methodology Research SWAT Repository Store were searched. Two independent reviewers screened the search results and extracted data for eligible studies using a piloted extraction form. A narrative synthesis was used due to a lack of heterogeneity between strategies which prevented meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 2133 records were identified which resulted in 13 ultimately being included in the review; seven on recruitment and six on retention. All included studies were based within surgical host trials. Four of the seven recruitment studies focussed on the provision of consent information to participants, one focussed on study set up and one on staff training, with only one relating to consent information finding any significant effect. A range of retention strategies were assessed by the included studies, however only two found (pen vs no pen, mailing strategies) found any significant effect. CONCLUSION: The included studies within a trial were all conducted within surgical trials. There was significant variation in strategies used, and limited replications and therefore further assessment may be warranted. Given the lack of studies embedded within wound care trials, further studies in this area are recommended. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42020205475).

678. Real-time classification of longitudinal conveyor belt cracks with deep-learning approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Dwivedi UK, Kumar A, Sekimoto Y.

679. "It reminds me and motivates me": Human-centered design and implementation of an interactive, SMS-based digital intervention to improve early retention on antiretroviral therapy: Usability and acceptability among new initiates in a high-volume, public clinic in Malawi.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Huwa J, Tweya H, Mureithi M

BACKGROUND: Early retention of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs is critical to improve individual clinical outcomes and viral load suppression. Although many mobile health (mHealth) interventions aim to improve retention in care, there is still lack of evidence on mHealth success or failure, including from patient's perspectives. We describe the human-centered design (HCD) process and assess patient usability and acceptability of a two-way texting (2wT) intervention to improve early retention among new ART initiates at Lighthouse Trust clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi. METHODS: An iterative HCD approach focused on patient and provider users' needs, incorporating feedback from multidisciplinary teams to adapt 2wT for the local, public clinic context. We present mixed-methods usability and acceptability results from 100 participants, 50 at 3-months and 50 at 6-months, post 2wT enrollment, and observations of these same patients completing core tasks of the 2wT system. RESULTS: Among the 100 usability respondents, 95% were satisfied with visit reminders, and 88% would recommend reminders and motivational messages to friends; however, 17% were worried about confidentiality. In observation of participant task completion, 94% were able to successfully confirm visit attendance and 73% could request appointment date change. More participants in 4-6 months group completed tasks correctly compared to 1-3 months group, although not significantly different (78% vs. 66%, p = 0.181). Qualitative results were overwhelmingly positive, but patients did note confusion with transfer reporting and concern that 2wT would not reach patients without mobile phones or with lower literacy. CONCLUSION: The 2wT app for early ART retention appears highly usable and acceptable, hopefully creating a solid foundation for lifelong engagement in care. The HCD approach put the local team central in this process, ensuring that both patients' and Lighthouse's priorities, policies, and practices were forefront in 2wT optimization, raising the likelihood of 2wT success in other routine program contexts.

680. First genome-wide data from Italian European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.): Strong and ancient differentiation between Alps and Apennines.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Marchesini A, Silverj A, Torre S

681. Optimization of infectious bronchitis virus-like particle expression in Nicotiana benthamiana as potential poultry vaccines.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Sepotokele KM, O'Kennedy MM, Wandrag DBR

682. Determinants of sexual dysfunction in pregnancy in a large tertiary hospital in Ghana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Maya ET, Boamah MO, Agyabeng K

683. Evolution and stages of China's economic inequality from 1978 to 2018.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Guo Y.

684. Enhancing the thermostability of Streptomyces cyaneofuscatus strain Ms1 tyrosinase by multi-factors rational design and molecular dynamics simulations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Li Z, Zhao C, Li D

685. Flight behaviour monitoring and quantification of aedes aegypti using convolution neural network.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Javed N, Paradkar PN, Bhatti A.

686. Dendrogram of transparent feature importance machine learning statistics to classify associations for heart failure: A reanalysis of a retrospective cohort study of the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III) database.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Huang AA, Huang SY.

BACKGROUND: There is a continual push for developing accurate predictors for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admitted heart failure (HF) patients and in-hospital mortality. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to utilize transparent machine learning and create hierarchical clustering of key predictors based off of model importance statistics gain, cover, and frequency. METHODS: Inclusion criteria of complete patient information for in-hospital mortality in the ICU with HF from the MIMIC-III database were randomly divided into a training (n = 941, 80%) and test (n = 235, 20%). A grid search was set to find hyperparameters. Machine Learning with XGBoost were used to predict mortality followed by feature importance with Shapely Additive Explanations (SHAP) and hierarchical clustering of model metrics with a dendrogram and heat map. RESULTS: Of the 1,176 heart failure ICU patients that met inclusion criteria for the study, 558 (47.5%) were males. The mean age was 74.05 (SD = 12.85). XGBoost model had an area under the receiver operator curve of 0.662. The highest overall SHAP explanations were urine output, leukocytes, bicarbonate, and platelets. Average urine output was 1899.28 (SD = 1272.36) mL/day with the hospital mortality group having 1345.97 (SD = 1136.58) mL/day and the group without hospital mortality having 1986.91 (SD = 1271.16) mL/day. The average leukocyte count in the cohort was 10.72 (SD = 5.23) cells per microliter. For the hospital mortality group the leukocyte count was 13.47 (SD = 7.42) cells per microliter and for the group without hospital mortality the leukocyte count was 10.28 (SD = 4.66) cells per microliter. The average bicarbonate value was 26.91 (SD = 5.17) mEq/L. Amongst the group with hospital mortality the average bicarbonate value was 24.00 (SD = 5.42) mEq/L. Amongst the group without hospital mortality the average bicarbonate value was 27.37 (SD = 4.98) mEq/L. The average platelet value was 241.52 platelets per microliter. For the group with hospital mortality the average platelet value was 216.21 platelets per microliter. For the group without hospital mortality the average platelet value was 245.47 platelets per microliter. Cluster 1 of the dendrogram grouped the temperature, platelets, urine output, Saturation of partial pressure of Oxygen (SPO2), Leukocyte count, lymphocyte count, bicarbonate, anion gap, respiratory rate, PCO2, BMI, and age as most similar in having the highest aggregate gain, cover, and frequency metrics. CONCLUSION: Machine Learning models that incorporate dendrograms and heat maps can offer additional summaries of model statistics in differentiating factors between in patient ICU mortality in heart failure patients.

687. Advances and future trends in research on carbon emissions reduction in China from the perspective of bibliometrics.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 20

Chen C, Liu W.

688. Biochar ageing improves soil properties, growth and yield of red radish (Raphanus sativus) in a Haplic Cambisol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Nyambo P, Motsi H, Chiduza C

689. Predictors of HIV testing among youth 15-24 years in urban Ethiopia, 2017-2018 Ethiopia population-based HIV impact assessment.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Ajiboye AS, Eshetu F, Lulseged S

690. Leading wellness in healthcare: A qualitative study of leadership practices for wellness in hospital settings.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Allan J, Olcon K, Everingham R

Ways of dealing with workplace stress and enhancing healthcare workers wellness are sought globally. The aim of this study was to explore healthcare leaders' practice in relation to the implementation of a workplace wellness program called SEED in the context of multiple crises (bushfires and COVID-19) affecting a local health district in New South Wales, Australia. Practice theory informed interviews (n = 23), focus groups (n = 2) and co-analysis reflexive discussions (n = 2) that were conducted with thirteen leaders and twenty healthcare workers. A pragmatic approach to program implementation for healthcare workers' wellness explored the process and actions that resulted from leadership practice in an inductive thematic analysis. Preliminary themes were presented in the co-analysis sessions to ensure the lived experiences of the SEED program were reflected and co-interpretation of the data was included in the analysis. Three key themes were identified. 1) Leading change-implementing a wellness program required leaders to try something new and be determined to make change happen. 2) Permission for wellness-implicit and explicit permission from leaders to engage in wellness activities during worktime was required. 3) Role-modelling wellness-leaders viewed SEED as a way to demonstrate leadership in supporting and caring for healthcare workers. SEED provided a platform for leaders who participated to demonstrate their leadership practices in supporting wellness activities. Leadership practices are critical to the implementation of healthcare wellness programs. The implementation of SEED at a time of unprecedented crisis gave leaders and healthcare workers opportunities to experience something new including leadership that was courageous, responsive and authentic. The study highlighted the need for workplace wellness programs to intentionally include leaders rather than only expect them to implement them. The practices documented in this study provide guidance to others developing, implementing and researching workplace wellness programs.

691. Dyslipidemia paradox: Analysis from the veterans exercise testing study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Vainshelboim B, Myers J.

BACKGROUND: Dyslipidemia is a well-established cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor, although its association with mortality is less clear. This study aimed to assess the association between established dyslipidemia criteria [National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults [Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III] and all-cause mortality in men. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of 1,479 men aged 59.7±10.7 years was conducted between 1987 and 2012. At baseline, dyslipidemia markers of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were assessed as an exposure. Cox proportional hazard models were analyzed adjusting for conventional health risk factors using all-cause mortality as an outcome. RESULTS: Mean and standard deviations of TC, LDL-C and HDL-C were 199.5±45.2, 149.4±47.4 and 44.3±12.2 mg/dL, respectively. During 8.9±4.5 years follow-up, 284 participants died. Compared to TC <200 mg/dL, levels of 200-239 mg/dL and ≥240 mg/dL were associated with 13% [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.87, 95% confidence intervals (CI) (0.66-1.1)] and 37% [HR = 0.63, 95% CI (0.44-0.92)] lower risks of mortality (p trend = 0.048), respectively. Compared to LDL-C <130 mg/dL, levels of 130-189 mg/dL and ≥190 mg/dL were associated with 26% [HR = 0.74, 95% CI (0.57-0.97)] and 32% [HR = 0.68, 95% CI (0.48-0.98)] lower risks of mortality (p trend = 0.044), respectively. Mean survival time was 0.9 to 1.9 years longer with higher TC and LDL-C categories (both p = 0.001). HDL-C was not associated with mortality. CONCLUSION: In reference to established dyslipidemia criteria, this study showed that higher TC and LDL-C were independently and paradoxically associated with lower risk of all-cause mortality and longer survival time in men. Along with previous reports, these novel findings support a rigorous reevaluation of evidence on dyslipidemia and health risks. Systematic review and meta-analysis are warranted for evidence-based recommendations on dyslipidemia for primary and secondary prevention of CVD.

692. Correlations of mobility and Covid-19 transmission in global data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Bergman NK, Fishman R.

693. Molecular insights into the inhibitory potential of anthocyanidins on glucokinase regulatory protein.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Kenneth C, Anugrah DSB, Julianus J

694. A sensitive tissue factor activity assay determined by an optimized thrombin generation method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Kristensen SR, Nybo J.

BACKGROUND: Tissue factor (TF) is the principal activator of the coagulation system, but an increased concentration in the blood in cancer and inflammatory diseases has been suggested to play a role increasing the risk of venous thromboembolism. However, measurement of the TF concentration is difficult, and quantitation of activity is the most valid estimation. The objective of this study was to establish a sensitive method to measure TF activity based on thrombin generation. METHODS: The assay is based on thrombin generation (TG) measured on the Calibrated Automated Thrombogram (CAT). Various low concentrations of TF were prepared from reagents containing 1 pM TF and 4 μM phospholipid (PPL), and no TF and 4 μM PPL, and a calibration curve was produced from Lagtime vs TF concentration. TF in blood samples was measured after isolation and resuspension of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in a standard plasma from which EVs had been removed. The same standard plasma was used for the calibrators. RESULTS: Contact activation of the coagulation system was avoided using CTI plasma samples in Monovette tubes. EVs contain procoagulant phospholipids but addition of PPL only reduced lagtime slightly at very low concentrations of TF resulting in overestimation to a lesser extent at 10 fM but no interference at 30 fM or higher. Addition of EVs to the TG analysis induced a small unspecific TF-independent activity (i.e., an activity not inhibited by antibodies against TF) which also may result in a smaller error in estimation of TF activity at very low levels but the effect was negligible at higher concentrations. It was possible to measure TF activity in healthy controls which was found to be 1-6 fM (EVs were concentrated, i.e. solubilized in a lower volume than the original volume plasma). Coefficient of variation (CV) was below 20% at the low level, and below 10% at a level around 100 fM TF. However, the step with isolation of EVs have a higher inherent CV. CONCLUSION: A sensitive and rather precise one-stage TG-based method to measure TF activity has been established.

695. Evaluation of the introduction of a healthy food and drink policy in 13 community recreation centres on the healthiness and nutrient content of customer purchases and business outcomes: An observational study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Naughton SS, Romaniuk H, Peeters A

INTRODUCTION: This observational study assessed the introduction of a comprehensive healthy food and drink policy across 13 community organisation managed aquatic and recreation centres in Victoria, Australia, and the associated changes on business outcomes, and the healthiness of purchases. The policy, based on state government guidelines, mandated that food and drink availability be based on healthiness classification: 'red' (limit) <10%, and 'green' (best choice) >50%, and the remainder 'amber' (choose carefully). METHODS: Six years of monthly sales data were split into three periods, prior to (1/01/2013-31/12/2014), during (1/01/2015-31/12/2016) and post (1/1/2017-31/12/2018), policy implementation. Using point-of-sale data, food and drink nutrient content, and state guidelines, items were classified as 'red'/'amber'/'green'. Linear models with Newey West standard errors were fitted to compare the mean value of outcomes between post- to pre-policy implementation periods, for each outcome and centre; and were pooled using random effect meta-analyses. RESULTS: Comparing post- to pre-policy implementation periods, total food sales did not change (mean percentage difference: -3.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) -21% to 14%), though total drink sales declined -27% (CI -37% to -17%). The mean percentage of 'red' foods sold declined by -15% (CI -22% to -7.7%), 'amber' food sales increased 11% (CI 5.5% to 16%). 'Green' food sales did not change (3.3%, CI -1.4% to 8.0%). The mean percentage of 'red' drinks sold declined -37% (CI -43% to -31%), 'amber' and 'green' drink sales increased by 8.8% (CI 3.6% to 14%) and 28% (CI 23% to 33%), respectively. The energy density and sugar content (percentage of total weight/volume) of both food and drinks decreased. CONCLUSIONS: This study has shown that the implementation of a policy to improve the health of retail food environments can result in a shift towards healthier purchases. Sales revenue from foods did not decline, though revenue from drinks did, indicating future research needs to explore mitigation of this.

696. Changes in reproductive behavior associated with the perception and individual experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Slabá J.

697. The analysis and solution for intercity travel behaviors during holidays in the post-epidemic era based on big data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Zhang X, Gao J.

The COVID-19 had a huge impact on the transportation industry. In the post-epidemic stage, intercity transportation will face great challenges as places are unsealed, tourism and other service industries begin to recover, and residents' travel demand gradually increases. An in-depth study of residents' intercity travel behavior during holidays in the post-epidemic era will help restore public trust in public transportation and improve the quality of public transportation services. Based on traditional research on ways of travelling, the study adopted the Complex Network Analysis Theory. The city clusters of Shandong Peninsula were taken as the research region. The research studied the impact of the differences in regional attributes of the cities in Shandong Peninsula on residents' intercity travel in the post-epidemic times. A dynamic evolution model of how residents choose to travel was built to simulate the changes to their ways of traveling in the post-epidemic era under two conditions, which are: traveling under the government's supervision of intercity travel and traveling under the government's optimization of intercity travel conditions. The conclusions drawn from the analyses of Complex Network Theory and Evolutionary Game Theory are as follows. First, in the holiday intercity travel in the post-epidemic times, the neighboring cities of Shandong Peninsula are closely connected, thus traveling between neighboring cities dominates intercity travel. Second, the travel network concentration of residents on long-term holidays is lower than that on short-term holidays, and the migration intensity of residents is higher than that on short-term holidays, while the willingness of residents' migration on short-term holidays is higher than that on long-term holidays. The willingness to migrate on holidays is generally lower than that before the epidemic. Third, in a normal intercity travel network, the travel between two cities with medium and long distances is mainly by public transport. However, the dominance of public transport will be affected under the impact of the epidemic. In short-distance travel between two cities, private transport is in an advantageous position, and under the impact of the epidemic, this advantage will become more significant. The government can improve the position of public transport in short-distance travel by making optimizations.

698. Study protocol: A cross-sectional survey of clinicians to identify barriers to clinical practice guideline implementation in the assessment and treatment of persistent tic disorders.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Martindale JM, Sarva H, Martino D

699. Kindness: Definitions and a pilot study for the development of a kindness scale in healthcare.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Hake AB, Post SG.

BACKGROUND: Empathy and compassion currently receive the most attention in healthcare with respect to the medical humanities and while these skills are important for any clinician to learn, they are complex and can be daunting to healthcare trainees when first encountered. Kindness is a simple, time-sensitive behavior not yet well characterized in the healthcare setting. With this study, we aim to clearly define it as well as investigate a few common examples of kindness that might be used to create a scale for use in the healthcare setting. METHODS: A literature search was performed to rigorously define kindness. A kindness scale based on this definition was then compiled and administered to 45 patients across three outpatient clinical settings to evaluate the association between several actions and the patient's perception of kindness. RESULTS: Kind actions are small, take little effort, and are short in duration to their intended effect. We define kindness as an action that benefits another, as perceived by the recipient of the kind action. The results from our clinical study indicate several actions such as greeting the patient with a smile, asking questions about the patient's daily life, listening carefully, and appearing interested in the patient have a moderate strength correlation to a perception of kindness. The physician being perceived as kind also had a weak-moderate strength correlation to the patient subjectively reporting improvement after their visit. CONCLUSIONS: Definitions in the medical humanities are important as they guide the scales used to measure them. This article defines kindness and describes some examples of its manifestation in the healthcare setting. Our study indicates that performing kind actions may improve a patient's subjective perception of their care, however, future studies are needed to evaluate whether this benefit extends to health outcomes as has been demonstrated for skills such as empathy and good communication. "Constant kindness can accomplish much. As the sun makes ice melt, kindness causes misunderstanding, mistrust, and hostility to evaporate." ~Albert Schweitzer.

700. The experiences of patients with peritoneal dialysis: A systematic review of qualitative evidence protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Zhang M, Cai C.

701. A biochemical analysis of Black Soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larval frass plant growth promoting activity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Green T.

702. Treatment-induced increase in total body potassium in patients at high risk of ventricular arrhythmias; a randomized POTCAST substudy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Winsløw U, Sakthivel T, Zheng C

703. Patient perspectives on the role of nurses in HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis care (PrEP-RN).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Orser L, O'Byrne P, Holmes D.

INTRODUCTION: In response to ongoing new HIV diagnoses among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) and limited access points for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) care, we established Canada's first nurse-led HIV prevention service in Ottawa, Canada-PrEP-RN. As part of this service, registered nurses became the primary provider in PrEP delivery and monitoring. OBJECTIVES: To (1) gather patients' sentiments and experiences related to nurse-led PrEP and (2) identify the implications for nurses working in sexual healthcare. METHODOLOGY: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 gbMSM participants who had received, or were presently enrolled in, HIV prevention care from nurses in the PrEP-RN clinic. Interview transcripts were reviewed and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Our analysis revealed two major themes of: The Sexual Health Nurse as the Expert and Patients Reliance on Nurses. The first theme discussed patients' positive attitudes toward nurses, in terms of the knowledge nurses possessed and the kind and efficient services they. The accommodating nature of nurses, however, led patients to become dependent on their care, which was the focus of the second theme. This reliance on nurses created challenges when patients transitioned from PrEP-RN to alternate providers for ongoing care. CONCLUSION: These findings were examined to understand the effect of patients' perceptions of nurses on nursing practice. Despite patients' confidence in nurses' ability to provide PrEP care, the expectations they placed onto nurses to address the totality of their needs created competing demands for nurses to be both a leader in HIV prevention care-and fulfill the image of the caring, healthcare 'hero', which created feelings of moral distress among nurses. As increasing initiatives focus on task-shifting of healthcare roles to nurses, understanding the patients' perspective is essential in maintaining effective nurse-patient relationships.

704. Strategies to increase childhood tuberculosis case detection at the primary health care level: Lessons from an active case finding study in Zambia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Kagujje M, Nyangu S, Maimbolwa MM

INTRODUCTION: In high TB burden settings, it is estimated that 10-20% of total notifications should be children, however, currently only 6-8% of the total TB notifications in Zambia are children. We assessed whether the implementation of a multicomponent strategy, at primary healthcare facilities, that systematically targets barriers at each step of the childhood TB diagnostic cascade can increase childhood TB case detection. METHODS: We conducted a controlled, interrupted time series analysis to compare childhood TB case notifications before (January 2018-December 2019), and during implementation (January 2020-September 2021) in two intervention and two control Level 1 hospitals in Lusaka, Zambia. At each of the intervention facilities, we implemented a multicomponent strategy constituting: (1) capacity development on childhood TB and interpretation of chest x-ray, (2) TB awareness-raising and demand creation activities, (3) setting up fast track TB services, (4) strengthening of household contact tracing, and (5) improving access to digital chest X-ray for TB screening and Xpert MTB/Rif Ultra for TB diagnosis, through strengthening sample collection in children. FINDINGS: Among 5,150 children < 15 years screened at the two intervention facilities during the study period, 503 (9.8% yield) were diagnosed with TB. Of these, 433 (86.1%) were identified through facility-based activities (10.5% yield) and 70 (13.9%) were identified through household contact tracing (6.9% yield). Overall, 446 children (88.7%) children with TB were clinically diagnosed. Following implementation of the multicomponent strategy, the proportion children contributed to total TB notifications immediately changed by +1.5% (95%CI: -3.5, 6.6) and -4.4% (95%CI: -7.5, 1.4) at the intervention and control sites, respectively (difference 6.0% [95%CI: -0.7, 12.7]), p = 0.08); the proportion of childhood notifications increased 0.9% (95%CI: -0.7, 2.5%) each quarter at the intervention sites relative to pre-implementation trends, while declining 1.2% (-95%CI: -1.8, -0.6) at the control sites (difference 2.1% [95%CI: 0.1, 4.2] per quarter between, p = 0.046); this translated into 352 additional and 85 fewer childhood TB notifications at the intervention and control sites, respectively, compared to the pre-implementation period. CONCLUSION: A standardized package of strategies to improve childhood TB detection at primary healthcare facilities was feasible to implement and was associated with a sustained improvement in childhood TB notifications.

705. Ear health and quality of life in pet rabbits of differing ear conformations: A UK survey of owner-reported signalment risk factors and effects on rabbit welfare and behaviour.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Chivers BD, Keeler MRD, Burn CC.

706. Gradient-mixing LEGO robots for purifying DNA origami nanostructures of multiple components by rate-zonal centrifugation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Sentosa J, Djutanta F, Horne B

707. Association between an inflammatory biomarker score and future dementia diagnosis in the population-based UK Biobank cohort of 500,000 people.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Mekli K, Lophatananon A, Maharani A

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between a systematic inflammatory biomarker measure, concurrent and later cognitive performance, and future dementia risk. The literature has reported the potential involvement of inflammation in cognitive performance as well as Alzheimer's Disease, but not consistently. We used a population-based cohort of 500,000 people in the UK and assessed the association between a composite inflammatory biomarker and cognitive performance measures across five domains measured concurrently and 4-13 years later, taking advantage of the large sample size. We also assessed the same biomarker's association with dementia diagnosis 3-11 years later in the initially dementia-free sample. We report small but significant associations between elevated biomarker levels and worsened cognitive performance at baseline for four cognitive tasks (OR = 1.204, p<0.001 for Prospective memory, β = -0.366, p<0.001 for Fluid intelligence, β = 8.819, p<0.001 for Reaction time, and β = -0.224, p<0.001 for Numeric memory), comparing the highest quartile of the biomarker to the lowest. We also found that for one measure (Pairs matching) higher biomarker levels were associated with fewer errors, i.e. better performance (β = -0.096, p<0.001). We also report that the 4th quartiles of the baseline biomarker levels were significantly associated with cognitive task scores assessed years later on the p< = 0.002 level, except for the Pair matching test, for which none of the quartiles remained a significant predictor. Finally, the highest biomarker quartile was significantly associated with increased dementia risk compared to the lowest quartile (HR = 1.349, p<0.001). A case-only analysis to assess disease subtype heterogeneity suggested probable differences in the association with the highest biomarker quartile between vascular dementia and Alzheimer disease subtypes (OR = 1.483, p = 0.055). Our results indicate that systemic inflammation may play a small but significant part in dementia pathophysiology, especially in vascular dementia.

708. A double-pointed wooden throwing stick from Schöningen, Germany: Results and new insights from a multianalytical study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Milks A, Lehmann J, Leder D

The site of Schöningen (Germany), dated to ca. 300,000 years ago, yielded the earliest large-scale record of humanly-made wooden tools. These include wooden spears and shorter double-pointed sticks, discovered in association with herbivores that were hunted and butchered along a lakeshore. Wooden tools have not been systematically analysed to the same standard as other Palaeolithic technologies, such as lithic or bone tools. Our multianalytical study includes micro-CT scanning, 3-dimensional microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, supporting a systematic technological and taphonomic analysis, thus setting a new standard for wooden tool analysis. In illustrating the biography of one of Schöningen's double-pointed sticks, we demonstrate new human behaviours for this time period, including sophisticated woodworking techniques. The hominins selected a spruce branch which they then debarked and shaped into an aerodynamic and ergonomic tool. They likely seasoned the wood to avoid cracking and warping. After a long period of use, it was probably lost while hunting, and was then rapidly buried in mud. Taphonomic alterations include damage from trampling, fungal attack, root damage and compression. Through our detailed analysis we show that Middle Pleistocene humans had a rich awareness of raw material properties, and possessed sophisticated woodworking skills. Alongside new detailed morphometrics of the object, an ethnographic review supports a primary function as a throwing stick for hunting, indicating potential hunting strategies and social contexts including for communal hunts involving children. The Schöningen throwing sticks may have been used to strategically disadvantage larger ungulates, potentially from distances of up to 30 metres. They also demonstrate that the hominins were technologically capable of capturing smaller fast prey and avian fauna, a behaviour evidenced at contemporaneous Middle Pleistocene archaeological sites.

709. Effect of conventional and household water treatment technologies on the removal of pesticide residues in drinking water, Jimma town, Southwestern, Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Jemal T, Astatke H, Terfe A

710. Promoting insect farming and household consumption through agricultural training and nutrition education in Africa: A study protocol for a multisite cluster-randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Alemu MH, Halloran A, Olsen SB

BACKGROUND: Edible insects are a sustainable source of high-quality animal protein. Insect farming is gaining interest globally, particularly in low-income countries, where it may provide substantial nutritional and economic benefits. To enhance insect farming practices in Africa, new farming systems are being developed. However, knowledge on how to best promote uptake of these systems is lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the effectiveness of educational interventions in promoting insect farming for household consumption in Africa. METHOD: The study is designed as a multi-site randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impacts of agricultural training alone or in combination with nutrition education on the adoption of insect farming in Ghana, Kenya and Uganda. In each of the three countries, ninety-nine villages are randomly assigned to one of three arms: two intervention arms and a control arm with no interventions. Focusing on production (P), the first intervention arm covers agricultural training on insect farming combined with provision of insect production starter kits. Focusing on both production and consumption (PC), the second intervention arm involves the same intervention components as treatment P plus additional nutrition education. The impacts of the interventions are measured by comparing baseline and endline data collected one year apart. Primary outcomes are adoption of insect farming and consumption of the farmed insects. DISCUSSION: Understanding the drivers and impacts of novel agricultural practices is crucial for transitioning to sustainable food systems. The current project is the first to investigate how educational interventions promote insect farming for household consumption in low-income countries. The results will contribute evidence-based knowledge to support sustainable development through insect farming in Africa. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The protocol is registered in the American Economic Association registry for randomized control trials with registration number AEARCTR-0009996. Initial registration date: 02 September 2022, last updated 17 May 2023.

711. Market risk, financial distress and firm performance in Vietnam.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Vo DH.

712. Artificial shade as a heat abatement strategy to grazing beef cow-calf pairs in a subtropical climate.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

M Silva G, Laporta J, Podversich F

Grazing livestock in subtropical and tropical regions are susceptible to prolonged exposition to periods of extreme environmental conditions (i.e., temperature and humidity) that can trigger heat stress (HS). Currently, there is limited information on the effects of HS in the cow-calf sector globally, including in the southern U.S., as well as on mitigation strategies that could be implemented to improve animal well-being and performance. This study evaluated the impact of artificial shade (SHADE vs. NO SHADE) and breed (ANGUS vs. BRANGUS) on performance of pregnant-lactating cows, nursing heifers, and their subsequent offspring. Twenty-four Angus and 24 Brangus black-hided cows [579 ± 8 kg body weight (BW); approximately 85 d of gestation] and their nursing heifers (approximately 174 d of age) were randomly allocated to 12 'Pensacola' bahiagrass pastures (Paspalum notatum Flüggé; 1.3 ha, n = 4 pairs/pasture), with or without access to artificial shade [NO SHADE BRANGUS (NSB), NO SHADE ANGUS (NSA), SHADE BRANGUS (SB), and SHADE ANGUS (SA)] for 56 d that anticipated weaning during the summer season in Florida. Body condition score (BCS) of cows, blood samples, and BW of cow-calf pairs were obtained every 14 d during the 56-d experimental period until weaning. Following weaning (d 56), treatments were ceased, and cows and weaned heifers were managed alike. Weaned heifers were randomly allocated to 4 pens (n = 12/pen) equipped with GrowSafe feed bunks for 14 d to assess stress responses during weaning via plasma haptoglobin. An effect of SHADE × BREED interaction was detected for cow ADG, BW change, final BW, and final BCS, where SB had the greatest ADG, BW change, final BW, and final BCS. On d 14, SA cows had the greatest concentrations of insulin whereas on d 28 NSB had the lowest concentrations, NSA the greatest, and SA and SB being intermediate. On d 56, SA tended to have the greatest plasma insulin concentrations and SB the lowest. Weight gain per area (kg/ha) tended to be 11.4 kg/ha greater in SHADE vs. NO SHADE pastures. Pre-weaning calf ADG tended to be 0.14 kg greater for SHADE vs. NO SHADE calves. Weaning weight and BW at 14-d post-weaning were lesser for NSB vs. NSA, SA, and SB, whereas no differences in postweaning ADG or haptoglobin were observed. Effects of SHADE × BREED × day interaction was detected on plasma concentrations of IGF-1, in which NSA heifers had the lowest concentrations on weaning day. Gestation length was greater for SHADE vs. NO SHADE cows, but with no impacts on subsequent calf birth and weaning weight. In summary, providing artificial shade to pregnant-lactating beef cows increased body weight gain of nursing heifers and Brangus cows, while no impact on Angus dams were observed. The provision of artificial shade during the first trimester of gestation did not alter growth performance of the subsequent offspring at birth and weaning even though gestation length was longer.

713. Radio frequency identification technology reduce intravenous thrombolysis time in acute ischemic stroke.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Zhang Y, Jing Y, Zhu Y

714. United States Department of Agriculture nutrition assistance programs during the COVID-19 pandemic: A scoping review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Soldavini J, Read M, Clay L.

715. Child marriage in rural Bangladesh and impact on obstetric complications and perinatal death: Findings from a health and demographic surveillance system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Lee KH, Chowdhury AI, Rahman QS

716. Mothers' health care seeking behavior for neonatal danger sign in southern Ethiopia: Community based cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Mesele M, Abebe K, Dessu S

BACKGROUND: Over the previous few decades, significant progress has been made in reducing newborn mortality, but the worldwide scale of the problem remains high. A considerable number of newborn death and difficulties owing to neonatal danger signs could be avoided if mothers sought appropriate health care for common neonatal risk indications, according to a number of studies presently underway in Ethiopia. The aim of this study is to assess health care seeking behavior of mothers' in related to neonatal danger signs. METHOD: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 410 participants in Wolaita Sodo, From October 1 to October 30, 2019. To collect data, structured interviewer administered questionnaire was used. Data was coded, cleaned, recoded and entered in to epi-data version 3.1 and transported to SPSS window version 21 for analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was carried out and p-value of less than or equal to 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT: A total of 410 mothers participated in this study, 110 (47.6%) mothers preferred health intuition for their neonate. Husband educational status (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.1, 5.5), communication media (AOR = 4.3, 95% CI = 2.4, 7.5), place of residence (AOR = 3.5, 95% C.I = 1.9, 6.7), ANC follow up (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.4, 5.8), and PNC follow (AOR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.1, 3.1) were all factors that significantly associated with health care seeking practice neonatal dander signs. CONCLUSION: Overall, there was a low degree of health-seeking practice. The educational status of the mother's husband, communication media, residence, ANC follow-up, and PNC follow-up all predicted the mothers' health-care seeking behavior. The study also identifies the Wolaita Zone and Sodo town health offices, the health development army, one to five local community organizations with and health extension workers as key contributors.

717. Understanding concerns after severe COVID-19: A self-imposed lockdown guarded by anxiety?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Törnbom K, Larsson A, Sunnerhagen KS

718. The burden of disabilities in Sidama National Regional State, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional, descriptive study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Tenaw Z, Gari T, Gebretsadik A.

719. The benefits of prosocial power motivation in leadership: Action orientation fosters a win-win.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Friederichs KM, Waldenmeier K, Baumann N.

720. A data science approach for multi-sensor marine observatory data monitoring cold water corals (Paragorgia arborea) in two campaigns.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

van Kevelaer R, Langenkämper D, Nilssen I

721. The impact of working hours on pregnancy intention in childbearing-age women in Korea, the country with the world's lowest fertility rate.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Kim T.

This study aimed to assess factors affecting pregnancy intention among women of reproductive age in Korea. We analyzed data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), a population-based survey that included 22,731 women aged 15-49. As age was associated with birth year and was found to be a confounding factor in the analysis of participants' characteristics, we used propensity score matching to assess the characteristics of pregnant women compared with non-pregnant women of the same age and birth year. We also employed the XGBoost machine learning model to identify the most important factors related to pregnancy intentions. Our feature importance analysis showed that weekly working hours were the most significant factor affecting pregnancy intentions. Additionally, we performed cluster analysis and logistic regression models to determine optimal weekly working hours. Cluster analysis identified participants into three distinct groups based on their characteristics, indicating that the group with an average of 34.4±12.9 hours per week had the highest likelihood of becoming pregnant. Logistic regression was used to analyze the odds of pregnancy for every 5-hour increase in weekly working hours. The results of logistic regression indicated that women who worked between 35-45 hours per week had higher odds of pregnancy, with significant odds ratios of 2.009 (95% confidence interval: 1.581-2.547, p < .001) for 40-45 hours per week and 1.450 (95% confidence interval: 1.001-2.040, p < .05) for 35-40 hours per week, compared to women working other hours. In Korea, the standard workweek is typically 40 hours; however, Koreans often work considerably longer hours, with the second-highest number of working hours among OECD countries in 2022. This study suggests that strict monitoring of working hours and expansion of telecommuting for childbearing-age women are important factors in increasing the fertility rate in Korea.

722. Machine learning-based Sr isoscape of southern Sardinia: A tool for bio-geographic studies at the Phoenician-Punic site of Nora.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Gigante M, Mazzariol A, Bonetto J

Since prehistoric times, the island of Sardinia-in the western Mediterranean-has played a leading role in the dynamics of human population and mobility, in the circulation of raw materials and artefacts, idioms and customs, of technologies and ideas that have enriched the biological, linguistic and cultural heritage of local groups. For the Phoenician and Punic periods (from the 9th to the 3rd centuries BCE), the ancient site of Nora-in southern Sardinia-represents an emblematic case in the study of migratory phenomena that occurred on the Island from the Iron Age until the Roman conquest. Despite the importance of exploring (and characterising) such movements from a wider bio-cultural perspective, the application of bio-geochemical tools for geographical provenance to the ancient skeletal populations of Sardinia is yet scarce. The present work is the first step towards filling this gap with the development of the first isoscape of southern Sardinia using new bioavailable Sr isotope data and a machine-learning approach. From a geolithological point of view, Sardinia is rather heterogeneous and requires detailed studies to correctly assess the distribution of the isotopic signature of bioavailable Sr. The random forest model employed here to construct the Sr isoscape uses several external environmental and geological variables. The most important predictors are related to age and bedrock type, with additional input from local soil properties. A 10-fold cross-validation gives a mean square error of 0.0008 and an R-squared of 0.81, so the model correctly predicts the 87Sr/86Sr ratio of unknown areas. By using a Bayesian provenance assignment workflow, we tested the isoscape here produced to determine the geographic origin and the mobility of archaeological and modern fauna collected from the Phoenician-Punic site of Nora and the surrounding Pula Plain. Our results indicate that archaeological sheep and goats (87Sr/86Sr < 0.7090) are compatible with areas close to Nora and Pula Plain, in agreement with archaeological evidence of pastoralism in those areas. Modern wild and domesticated fauna (87Sr/86Sr > 0.7090) show compatibility with several natural and anthropogenic locations in southern Sardinia, as expected based on modern species distribution data. Finally, we discuss the large Sr isotopic variability of the Nora baseline, where human mobility studies of human cremated and inhumed individuals are currently underway.

723. Exploring parents' views of the use of narratives to promote childhood vaccination online.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Dubé E, Trottier ME, Gagnon D

BACKGROUND: Negative information about vaccines that spreads online may contribute to parents' vaccine hesitancy or refusal. Studies have shown that false claims about vaccines that use emotive personal narratives are more likely to be shared and engaged with on social media than factual evidence-based public health messages. The aim of this study was to explore parents' views regarding the use of positive narratives to promote childhood vaccination. METHODS: We identified three ∼4-minute video narratives from social media that counter frequent parental concerns about childhood vaccination: parents and informed decision-making (online misinformation about vaccines); a paediatrician's clinical experience with vaccine-preventable diseases (prevention of still existing diseases); and a mother's experience with vaccine-preventable disease (risks of the disease). Focus group discussions were held with parents of children aged 0 to 5 years to assess their views on these three narratives and their general opinion on the use of narratives as a vaccine promotion intervention. RESULTS: Four focus groups discussions were virtually held with 15 parents in December 2021. In general, parents trusted both health care provider's and parent's narratives, but participants identified more with stories having a parent as the main character. Both narratives featuring personal stories with vaccine-preventable diseases were preferred by parents, while the story about informed decision-making was perceived as less influential. Parents expressed the need for reliable and nuanced information about vaccines and diseases and felt that a short video format featuring a story was an efficient vaccine promotion intervention. However, many mentioned that they generally are not watching such videos while navigating the Web. CONCLUSION: While vaccine-critical stories are widely shared online, evidence on how best public health could counter these messages remains scarce. The use of narratives to promote vaccination was well-perceived by parents. Future studies are needed to assess reach and impact of such an intervention.

724. Low-dose lipopolysaccharide inducing continuous and obvious increase in urinary protein in hyperglycemic rats and the underlying mechanism.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Wang M, Gong Q, Zha C

725. Specific facial signals associate with categories of social actions conveyed through questions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Nota N, Trujillo JP, Holler J.

726. Neoxanthin is undetectable in human blood after ingestion of fresh young spinach leaf.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Sekiya M, Suzuki S, Ushida Y

727. Enhancing fine retinal vessel segmentation: Morphological reconstruction and double thresholds filtering strategy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Abdushkour H, Soomro TA, Ali A

728. Interindividual variability in the benefits of personal sound amplification products on speech perception in noise: A randomized cross-over clinical trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Perron M, Lau B, Alain C.

OBJECTIVE: The aging population is prone to hearing loss, which has several adverse effects on quality of life, including difficulty following conversations in noisy environments. Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) are a less expensive, over-the-counter alternative to traditional, more expensive hearing aids. Although some studies have shown that PSAPs can mitigate hearing loss, the literature generally only addresses group differences without considering interindividual variability. This study aimed to 1) determine how PSAPs affect listening effort and speech perception in noise and 2) measure interindividual variability and identify contributing demographic and health factors. DESIGN: We used a cross-over design in which all participants were assigned to each condition. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty-eight adults aged 60 to 87 years with normal hearing and mild hearing loss fulfilled the study requirements. INTERVENTION: In one session, speech-in-noise perception tasks were performed without PSAPs, and in the other, the tasks were performed with bilateral PSAPs. The two sessions were separated by one week, and the order of the sessions was balanced across participants. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: In both sessions, participants performed the Quick speech-in-noise test and a word discrimination task in noise, in which their self-reported listening effort was measured. RESULTS: PSAPs use improved speech perception in noise in both tasks and reduced listening effort. There was considerable variability between individuals, with approximately 60-70% of participants showing benefit. Age, hearing and cognitive status were significant predictors of the benefits. CONCLUSION: Not all individuals may benefit from the effect of PSAPs to the same extent at their first use, and this depends on specific health and demographic factors, particularly age, hearing, and cognitive status. These results underscore the importance of demographic and health factors in assessing the benefits of hearing amplification in older adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05076045.

729. What influences parental decisions about antibiotic use with their children: A qualitative study in rural Australia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Marsh SA, Byrne MK, Parsafar S.

BACKGROUND: Inappropriate use of antibiotics can promote bacterial resistance, which is a growing public health concern. As children are amongst the highest recipients of antibiotics, understanding the drivers of parental decisions towards their children's antibiotic use is imperative for the development of strategies to assist parents in making more informed decisions. This is particularly relevant to the decisions of parents living in resource-limited settings. This study explored the perspectives and practices of parents living in a rural setting about the use of antibiotics in their children. METHODS: Three focus group interviews were conducted with 10 parents of children under 12yrs, living in rural and remote areas of the Northern Territory, Australia. A focus group guide was developed to facilitate discussions, which was informed by the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Transcripts were analysed abductively using thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Four themes emerged explaining factors that contributed to parent decisions about their children's antibiotic use: 1) Parental knowledge, attitudes and decision making; 2) Perceptions of antimicrobial resistance; 3) Healthcare challenges; 4) Behaviours with antibiotics. While parents demonstrated accurate knowledge of the indications for antibiotic use, their decisions about the need for antibiotics were often driven by fear of serious illness. This fear was exacerbated by resource limitations associated with living in a resource-limited setting. Additional drivers of parental decision making included what parents have read or heard from both medical and non-medical networks, underscoring the importance of Social Norms in predicting behavioural intentions. CONCLUSION: Mothers living in remote areas experiencing reduced access to health services may make decisions about antibiotic use out of fear and based on the advice of their personal network when they perceive their child is vulnerable to a health threat. Findings from this study provide guidance for future research in the prediction of antibiotic use behaviours and for context-specific interventions.

730. An AI-based intervention for improving undergraduate STEM learning.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Hasan MR, Khan B.

731. An analysis of the leverage effect of "Internet +" on the economic spillover of sports industry.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Yi C, Tao Y, Bo F

732. Does entrepreneurship education in China develop entrepreneurial intention? the role of self-efficacy and experience.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Xu J, Fu Y, Zhang X.

733. What is an "ArchintorTM?" A paradigm shift in teaching, facilitation, and learning: The impact of different types of coursework expectations on classroom network structures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Love HB, Dickmann EM, Fisher ER.

734. Women drive efforts to highlight concealable stigmatized identities in U.S. academic science and engineering.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Busch CA, Cooper KM, Brownell SE.

735. FAVIS: Fast and versatile protocol for non-destructive metabarcoding of bulk insect samples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Iwaszkiewicz-Eggebrecht E, Łukasik P, Buczek M

736. The effect of entrepreneurship education on the entrepreneurial intention of different college students: Gender, household registration, school type, and poverty status.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Deng W, Wang J.

737. Antivenom preclinical efficacy testing against Asian snakes and their availability in Asia: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Soopairin S, Patikorn C, Taychakhoonavudh S.

BACKGROUND: Cross-neutralizing strategy has been applied to improve access to antivenoms, a key to reducing mortality and disability of snakebite envenoming. However, preclinical studies have been conducted to identify antivenoms' cross-neutralizing ability when clinical studies may not be considered ethical. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and summarize scattered evidence regarding the preclinical efficacy of antivenoms against Asian snakes. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS: In this systematic review, we searched for articles published until May 30, 2022, in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Preclinical studies that reported the available antivenoms' neutralizing ability against Asian snake lethality were included. Quality assessment was performed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation's risk of bias tool and the adapted the Animal Research Reporting In Vivo Experiments guidelines. The availability of effective antivenoms against Asian snakes was analyzed by comparing data from included studies with snakebite-information and data platforms developed by the World Health Organization. Fifty-two studies were included. Most studies assessed the antivenom efficacy against snakes from Southeast Asia (58%), followed by South Asia (35%) and East Asia (19%). Twenty-two (49%) medically important snakes had antivenom(s) with confirmed neutralizing ability. Situation analyses of the availability of effective antivenoms in Asia demonstrated that locally produced antivenoms did not cover all medically important snakes in each country. Among countries without local antivenom production, preclinical studies were conducted only in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. Risk of bias assessment was limited in some domains because of unreported data. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Cross-neutralizing of antivenoms against some medically important snakes in Asia was confirmed. This strategy may improve access to geographically effective antivenoms and bypass investment in novel antivenom development, especially in countries without local antivenom production. A database should be developed to aid the development of a snakebite-information system.

738. Poor treatment outcome and associated risk factors among patients with isoniazid mono-resistant tuberculosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Alemu A, Bitew ZW, Diriba G

BACKGROUND: To date, isoniazid mono-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is becoming an emerging global public health problem. It is associated with poor treatment outcome. Different studies have assessed the treatment outcome of isoniazid mono-resistant TB cases, however, the findings are inconsistent and there is limited global comprehensive report. Thus, this study aimed to assess the poor treatment outcome and its associated risk factors among patients with isoniazid mono-resistant TB. METHODS: Studies that reported the treatment outcomes and associated factors among isoniazid mono-resistant TB were searched from electronic databases and other sources. We used Joana Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool to assess the study's quality. We assessed publication bias through visual inspection of the funnel plot and confirmed by Egger's regression test. We used STATA version 17 for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Among 347 studies identified from the whole search, data were extracted from 25 studies reported from 47 countries. The pooled successful and poor treatment outcomes were 78% (95%CI; 74%-83%) and 22% (95%CI; 17%-26%), respectively. Specifically, complete, cure, treatment failure, mortality, loss to follow-up and relapse rates were 34%(95%CI; 17%-52%), 62% (95%CI; 50%-73%), 5% (95%CI; 3%-7%), 6% (95%CI; 4%-8%), 12% (95%CI; 8%-17%), and 1.7% (95%CI; 0.4%-3.1%), respectively. Higher prevalence of pooled poor treatment outcome was found in the South East Asian Region (estimate; 40%, 95%C; 34%-45%), and African Region (estimate; 33%, 95%CI; 24%-42%). Previous TB treatment (OR; 1.74, 95%CI; 1.15-2.33), having cancer (OR; 3.53, 95%CI; 1.43-5.62), and being initially smear positive (OR; 1.26, 95%CI; 1.08-1.43) were associated with poor treatment outcome. While those patients who took rifampicin in the continuation phase (OR; 0.22, 95%CI; 0.04-0.41), had extrapulmonary TB (OR; 0.70, 95%CI; 0.55-0.85), and took second-line injectable drugs (OR; 0.54, 95%CI; 0.33-0.75) had reduced risk of poor treatment outcome. CONCLUSION: Isoniazid mono-resistant TB patients had high poor treatment outcome. Thus, determination of isoniazid resistance pattern for all bacteriologically confirmed TB cases is critical for successful treatment outcome. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022372367.

739. Fault-tolerant control strategy of six-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor based on deadbeat current prediction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Gao H, Chen Q, Liang S

The fault-tolerant control after phase loss is crucial in the studies of the six-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), and the one phase loss is the most frequent phase loss fault. To improve the system instability caused by nonlinear and time-varying perturbations of inductance parameters in a double-Y phase shifted 30° six-phase PMSM, an improved deadbeat predictive current fault-tolerant control (DPC-FTC) method is proposed in this study. The transformation matrix after single-phase open-phase is first reduced and reconstructed, and the reduced-dimensional voltage equation is derived. Based on this equation, the deadbeat current predictive control is then used to predict the expected voltage using the current feedback value and the reference value, so as to shorten the response time and improve the overall control effect. The voltage equation after parameter perturbation is rewritten, and the current discrete transfer function under constant expected voltage before and after parameter perturbation is calculated. Afterwards, to further improve the low stability of fault-tolerant control after phase loss, which is caused by the inductance parameter perturbation of the control system, the weight coefficient is introduced in order to enhance the deadbeat predictive current control so that it splits and optimizes the direct-quadrature axis current. The stability of the system is then analyzed. By changing the weight coefficient, the fault-tolerant control system has a wider stable working range. Finally, the simulation model and experimental platform are completed. The results show that the improved DPC-FTC method improves the permissible inductor parameter uptake range by a factor of 1/β, reduces the current static difference by 32.05% and 46.02% when the inductor parameter is mismatched by a factor of 2, reduces the current oscillation and effectively reduces the sensitivity of system stability to inductor parameter uptake.

740. A qualitative analysis of the nurturing care environment of families participating in Brazil's Criança Feliz early childhood program.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Dos Santos LMTD, Godoi L, de Andrade E Guimarães B

741. Differential impacts of vaccine scandal by ethnic and socioeconomic factors: Evidence from China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Luan M, Qi Q, Shi W

Widespread vaccination against important diseases plays a key role for global health security, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, building and maintaining trust in immunization services remains challenging because of doubts about quality and safety of vaccines. China has periodically faced mounting pressure and even public outrage triggered by incidents of poor-quality vaccines. We aimed to evaluate the impact of the diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccine scandal of 2018 in China and the ensuing misinformation on vaccination, and investigate differential responses to the scandal by ethnic and socioeconomic factors. With data from January 2017 to December 2018 in Sichuan province, China, we used a difference-in-differences (DID) method to compare the changes in the county-level monthly DPT vaccinations against the hepatitis B vaccinations, both before and after the DPT vaccine scandal. We found that the number of DPT vaccinations decreased by 14.0 percent in response to the vaccine scandal and ensuing misinformation. The number of vaccinations in minority regions, under-developed regions, and regions with poor medical resources decreased more than in non-minority regions, developed regions, and regions with good medical resources (24.5 versus 10.1 percent, 17.3 versus 8.3 percent, and 17.0 versus 8.7 percent, respectively). People did more online searching for "Substandard vaccine" and "DPT vaccine" after the scandal, with the socioeconomically advantaged group searching more compared with the socioeconomically disadvantaged group. The results suggest the urgent need to make true information about the vaccine easily accessible over the internet, especially for the socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Our findings for China can also have implications for immunization service planning for better safeguarding public health in other countries, particularly developing ones.

742. Ecological habitat partitioning and feeding specialisations of coastal minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) using a recently designated MPA in northeast Scotland.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Robinson KP, MacDougall DAI, Bamford CCG

In the design of protected areas for cetaceans, spatial maps rarely take account of the life-history and behaviour of protected species relevant to their spatial ambit, which may be important for their management. In this study, we examined the distribution and feeding behaviours of adult versus juvenile minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) from long-term studies in the Moray Firth in northeast Scotland, where a Marine Protected Area (MPA) has recently been designated. Data were collected during dedicated boat surveys between 2001 and 2022 inclusive, from which 784 encounters with 964 whales of confirmed age-class (471 juveniles and 493 adults) were recorded from 56,263 km of survey effort, resulting in 238 focal follows. Adults and juveniles were occasionally seen together, but their distributions were not statistically correlated, and GIS revealed spatial separation / habitat partitioning by age-class-with juveniles preferring shallower, inshore waters with sandy-gravel sediments, and adults preferring deeper, offshore waters with greater bathymetric slope. GAMs suggested that the partitioning between age-classes was predominantly based on the differing proximity of animals to the shore, with juveniles showing a preference for the gentlest seabed slopes, and both adults and juveniles showing a similar preference for sandy gravel sediment types. However, the GAMs only used sightings data with available survey effort (2008 to 2022) and excluded depth due to collinearity issues. Whilst adult minkes employed a range of "active" prey-entrapment specialisations, showing inter-individual variation and seasonal plasticity in their targeted prey, juveniles almost exclusively used "passive" (low energy) feeding methods targeting low-density patches of inshore prey. These findings corroborate the need to incorporate demographic and behavioural data into spatial models when identifying priority areas for protected cetacean species. Not all areas within an MPA have equal value for a population and a better knowledge of the spatial preferences of these whales within the designated Scottish MPAs, appointed for their protection, is considered vital for their conservation.

743. Physical activity, sedentary behavior and pancreatitis risk: Mendelian randomization study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Ling R, Liang J, Mo S

744. Clients' and genetic counselors' perceptions of empathy in Japan: A pilot study of simulated consultations of genetic counseling.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Tomozawa C, Kaneko M, Sasaki M

745. Validation of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) emotional subscale in assessing depression and anxiety across development.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Armitage JM, Tseliou F, Riglin L

746. Yoga and Multiple Sclerosis: Maintaining engagement in physical activity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Naisby J, Wilson-Menzfeld G, Baker K

747. Spatial localization ability of planarians identified through a light maze paradigm.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Qian R, Yan Y, Pei Y

748. Does controlling shareholders' share pledge exacerbate excessive financialization of enterprises?-Evidence from performance pressure perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Xie Y, Wang T, Zhang J

749. Lumicitabine, an orally administered nucleoside analog, in infants hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection: Safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic results.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Oey A, McClure M, Symons JA

750. Pricing decisions of risk averse logistic companies with carbon cap and trade under Stackelberg game.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Huang F, Liu B, Tao B

751. hGSuite HyperBrowser: A web-based toolkit for hierarchical metadata-informed analysis of genomic tracks.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Kalyanasundaram S, Lefol Y, Gundersen S

752. Artificial intelligence tool for the study of COVID-19 microdroplet spread across the human diameter and airborne space.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Alsaadi HH, Aldwairi M, Yasin F

753. The communication path and improvement strategy of symbolic culture of sneaker consumption culture using the big data analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Lv Z.

With the emergence of Artificial Intelligence technology and the advancement of science and technology, the current mainstream path of social development is continuously updating and improving various industries using technology. Therefore, in order to promote the development of sneaker consumer culture, this study explores the use of technological means to improve the dissemination effect of symbolic culture in sneaker consumer culture. Firstly, the development concept and mainstream direction of sneaker consumer culture in the era of big data are discussed, and the application principle of big data technology is introduced. Then, a sneaker culture dissemination model based on big data technology is designed. Finally, the model is optimized using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and its effectiveness is evaluated. The results show that the Convolutional Neural Network-Big Data (CNN-BD) model designed in this study has the highest fitting degree of 93% and a lowest fitting degree of 78% in the UT-Zap50K dataset. In the Ai2 dataset, the highest fitting degree of the big data classification model is 94%, and the lowest is 76%. In the Kaggle Women's Shoe dataset, the highest fitting degree of the big data classification model is 92%, and the lowest is 77%. In the Kaggle Men's Shoe dataset, the highest fitting degree of the big data classification model is 94%, and the lowest is 79%. The designed model has the highest accuracy rate of 93% in sneaker classification, while other models have the highest accuracy rate of around 82% in sneaker classification. Compared with traditional big data technology, the designed model has greatly improved and can adapt to more working environments. This study not only provides technical support for the application of big data technology but also contributes to improving the dissemination effect and promoting the comprehensive development of sneaker consumer culture.

754. How can past sea level be evaluated from traces of anthropogenic layers in ancient saltpans?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Bechor B, Avnaim-Katav S, Mischke S

Footprints of human activities identified in the sedimentary sequence of submerged historical saltpans can reveal the history of the site and can indicate the relative sea level during its operational period. Saltpans are man-made constructions used continuously for salt production in the Mediterranean at least for the last 2000 years. The east Adriatic coast contains many such submerged remains, preserved and well-dated by historical archives. Sedimentological, microfossil and geochemical analyses of the sediments from cores drilled in the saltwork area at Brbinj, Dugi Otok, Croatia, enable the reconstruction of various past environmental conditions. The current study aims to: a) identify the anthropogenic unit in the sedimentary sequence deposited over time, b) determine its age, and c) use it as past sea-level limiting points. Basal units made of terra rossa soil materials were identified in the sedimentary records. These layers are located -120 ±7 cm below mean sea level next to the separation wall and -125 ±7 cm and -135 ±7 cm, respectively, in the inner pools, most likely representing a man-made pavement. The terra rossa layer is overlaid by a unit rich in faunal remains dominated by euryhaline foraminifera and ostracod species such as Ammonia veneta and Cyprideis torosa, representing the saltworks unit. The flooding of the saltpans by the rising sea is manifested by the deposition of an upper sedimentary unit dominated by remains of marine species. The base and the top of the saltwork unit are dated by Optically Stimulated Luminescence to 1040±50 CE and to 1390±30 CE, respectively. The study presents a new approach for obtaining footprints of human activities in ancient, submerged saltpans, by identifying and dating the indicative anthropogenic layers and using these for the reconstruction of paleo sea-level. The described method can be applied all around the Mediterranean.

755. Solute carrier family 35 member A2 (SLC35A2) is a prognostic biomarker and correlated with immune infiltration in stomach adenocarcinoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Huang Z, Yang H, Lao J

BACKGROUND: Solute carrier family 35 member A2 (SLC35A2) located on the X chromosome is considered involved in the UDP-galactose transport from cytosol to Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum. It has been reported that the SLC35A2 expression is associated with carcinogenesis in recent studies, however, its specific roles in cancer progression have not been exhaustively elucidated. Herein, a system analysis was conducted to evaluate the role of SLC35A2 in prognostic, and immunology in stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD). METHODS: The TIMER, GEPIA, UALCAN, Kaplan-Meier Plotter were employed to explore the SLC35A2 expression pattern and prognostic value in STAD. Genomic alterations were searched through the MEXPRESS and cBioPortal platforms. The LinkedOmics, GEPIA and Metascape databases were employed to explore the biological processes. The TIMER and TISIDB websites were utilized to investigate the relationships between SLC35A2 expression and immune cell infiltration. The associations between SLC35A2 expression and tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI) in pan-cancer were explored using the SangerBox database. RESULTS: Compared to the normal gastric mucosa, SLC35A2 expression was significantly increased in STAD tissues, accompanied by the robust relationships with tumor grade, histological subtypes, TP53 mutation status, TMB and prognosis. SLC35A2 and its co-expression genes played the primarily roles in purine metabolism and purinosome, including the asparagine N-linked glycosylation, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum, regulation of transcription involved in G1/S transition of mitotic cell cycle, with the potential to participate in the regulation of VEGFA-VEGFR2 signaling pathway. Concurrently, SLC35A2 expression was correlated with macrophages and CD4+T lymphocytes infiltration in STAD. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has proposed that SLC35A2 correlated with immune cell infiltration could serve as a prognostic biomarker in STAD.

756. Antigen concentration, viral load, and test performance for SARS-CoV-2 in multiple specimen types.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Golden A, Oliveira-Silva M, Slater H

757. Assessing afebrile malaria and bed-net use in a high-burden region of India: Findings from multiple rounds of mass screening.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Garg S, Gupta V, Patel K

758. Physiological aging in India: The role of the epidemiological transition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 19

Krenz A, Strulik H.

759. Association of the risk of obstructive sleep apnoea with the severity of COVID-19.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Arish N, Izbicki G, Rokach A

760. Self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults in patients undergoing diagnostic colonoscopy: Findings from a cross-sectional, quantitative survey at a South African quaternary hospital.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Moodley Y, van Wyk J, Ning Y

Post-colonoscopy consults empower patients to make informed decisions around their subsequent treatment, and non-compliance with these consults ("no-shows") hinders disease management. There is a paucity in the literature regarding self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults in resource-limited settings such as South Africa. An understanding of self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults in this setting is required to establish whether improved interventions are needed, and what specific elements of self-adherence should be addressed with these interventions. The objective of this hypothesis-generating, cross-sectional, quantitative survey was to conduct a baseline assessment of cognitive, motivational, social, and behavioural variables related to self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults in patients who underwent diagnostic colonoscopy at a South African quaternary hospital. The Adherence Determinants Questionnaire (ADQ) was administered in 47 patients to establish a baseline assessment of elements related to self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults, including interpersonal aspects of care, perceived utility, severity, susceptibility, subjective norms, intentions, and supports/barriers. ADQ scores were transformed to a percentage of the maximum score for each element (100.0%). The overall mean transformed ADQ score was 57.8%. The mean transformed scores for specific ADQ components were as follows: subjective norms (40.8%), perceived severity (55.4%), perceived utility (56.6%), intentions (59.4%), supports/barriers (59.9%), interpersonal aspects (62.2%), and perceived susceptibility (65.9%). There were no statistically significant differences in overall mean transformed ADQ scores and individual ADQ elements across categories of participant age (p-values ranging between 0.180 and 0.949 when compared between participants ≤40 years and >40 years old), gender (p-values ranging between 0.071 and 0.946 when compared between males and females), and race (p-values ranging between 0.119 and 0.774 when compared between Black Africans and non-Black Africans). Our findings suggest a general need for appropriate interventions to improve self-adherence to post-colonoscopy consults in our setting.

761. Isolated abnormal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (iso↓DLco) is associated with increased respiratory symptom burden in people with HIV infection.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Byanova KL, Fitzpatrick J, Jan AK

762. Analysis on spatial structure characteristics and influencing factors of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region MICE cities.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Wu S, Hong Y, Jia Y

Industrial upgrading and transfer is one of the three key areas in the coordinated development of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. Meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) are important means of promoting industrial upgrading. Urban MICE industry, as an important carrier of event activities, become an important gripper for coordinated development of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. City exhibition space structure plays an dominant role in regional economic development, and it will greatly promote smooth implementation of the coordinated development strategy of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. In this paper, 13 prefecture-level cities in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei were selected as research objects, and the data from 2012 to 2018 were selected to establish a gravity model of the attractiveness of MICE cities. With the help of UCINET software, the network density, centrality, cohesive subgroup and core-edge of nodes researches were obtained to analyze the spatial structure characteristics of the attractiveness of MICE cities in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region. The influencing factors of the spatial characteristics of MICE city attractiveness are analyzed by using geographically weighted regression model. The results show that: (1) Beijing, as the overall core area, act as a prominent role. Beijing strengthens the attraction to the superior resources of the surrounding areas, but the network of MICE cities tends to be unbalanced. (2) Overall space forms a subgroup from a single independent subgroup to a subgroup that is spatially separated from each other and acts as an intermediary channel to connect each other, and the core region decreases from 3 to 2. Langfang was removed from the list, leaving Beijing and Tianjin as the core. (3) The influence of supporting facilities, urban environment and population factors on the MICE city attractiveness of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region is increasing gradually. The influence of tourism development level on the MICE city attractiveness of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region is decreasing gradually. The influence of economic development level and Internet development level on the MICE city attractiveness of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region remains unchanged.

763. Spatial analysis of vaccine coverage in children under the age of 1 year by mesoregions in Paraíba a northeastern Brazilian state.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Cunha NSP, de Olinda RA, Fahrat SCL

764. Unleashing the horizons of labor quality, digitalization on upgradation of industrial structure in Asian economies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Zhang Z, Madni GR, Naeem J.

765. Inference and quantile regression for the unit-exponentiated Lomax distribution.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Fayomi A, Hassan AS, Almetwally EM.

766. Association of OCT biomarkers and visual impairment in patients with diabetic macular oedema with vitreomacular adhesion.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Subramanian B, Devishamani C, Raman R

767. Junior to senior transition pathway in Italian Football: The rocky road to the top is not determined by youth national team's selections.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Boccia G, Brustio PR, Rinaldi R

768. Exploring the artificial intelligence "Trust paradox": Evidence from a survey experiment in the United States.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Kreps S, George J, Lushenko P

769. Lived experiences of caregivers of persons with epilepsy attending an epilepsy clinic at a tertiary hospital, eastern Uganda: A phenomenological approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Okiah L, Olowo S, Iramiot SJ

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy has been found to affect caregivers' quality of life, lifestyle, psychological health, social well-being, and working time. Caregivers in Uganda as in the rest of the world are important in assisting a person with epilepsy in complying with medical directions and are actively involved in communicating with healthcare professionals. Little is known about the lived experiences of caregivers of persons afflicted with epilepsy in Uganda. The purpose of this study was to determine the lived experiences of caregivers of persons with epilepsy attending the epilepsy clinic at Mbale regional referral hospital, eastern Uganda. METHODS AND MATERIALS: The caregivers' lived experiences were elicited directly from them and their health workers who work with them in the care of the patients. Forty participants which consisted of 30 caregivers and 10 key informant health workers were selected for the study through purposive sampling. Face-to-face in-depth interviews with an unstructured interview guide were conducted to gather participants' information. The principal investigator conceptualized the interview guide, the guide was then reviewed by co-investigators, and revised and approved as the final data collection instrument after an extensive and comprehensive literature review. The interview guide comprised two sections; the first section comprised the questions that elicited the participants' social-demographic information. The second section comprised questions that explored caregivers' experiences of persons afflicted with epilepsy. Notations were taken and a digital recorder was used purposely for audio recordings. All interviews lasted for an hour and were audio-recorded with the participant's consent. An inductive thematic analysis was employed and adopted to identify the patterns emerging from the texts. RESULTS: The caregivers majorly perceived epilepsy as a burden. Four main themes were revealed from the analysis and these are: psychological burdens which included, worries about the future of the patient, being looked down upon; social burdens which entailed, affected public relations, feelings of stigma; an economic burden which included interference with the source of income, affected productivity at work; and physical burdens which included, Feelings of uneasiness and disrupted sleep among others. CONCLUSION: The caregivers majorly perceived epilepsy as a serious burden. This burden can be psychological, social, economic, and physical. Therefore, services and plans targeting patients with epilepsy need to consider the burden that caregivers encounter to comprehensively manage epilepsy.

770. Peritoneal dialysis after failed kidney allograft: Comparing patients with and without pd before transplant.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Tian N, Meng H, Fung WWS

771. Regression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with reduced risk of incident diabetes: A longitudinal cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Sinn DH, Kang D, Guallar E

772. Determinants of undernutrition and overnutrition among reproductive-age women in Bangladesh: Trend analysis using spatial modeling.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Vatsa R, Ghimire U, Yasmin K

773. The effects of parental's cultural and economic capital and parental support on being an elite scientists.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Ciftci SK, Karadag E, Ergin-Kocaturk H.

Despite the rapid increase in the number of scientists all over the world in recent years, very few scientists can achieve to be part of elite scientist's category. Although there are many studies focusing on elite scientists, these studies generally do not focus on their childhood and parental background. In this study, which attempts to fill this gap, we focus on the cultural and economic capital of the families of elite scientists in Turkey and their parental support in childhood to analyze the roles of these variables in their being elite scientists. First, we assess the impact of cultural capital (institutional, objectified, and embodied), economic capital, parental support, and perceived academic success in basic education on the probability of becoming an elite scientist. Second, we analyze the differences among elite scientists to shed light on the gender gap in academia. We collected the data from 1,966 scientists working at 87 universities in Turkey through an online survey. Some of our main findings are as follows: (a) cultural capital, parental support, and academic success in basic education all have a strong positive effect on becoming an elite scientist; (b) objectified cultural capital has the highest impact in that an increase in this capital increases the probability of becoming elite scientists by 19%; (c) economic capital has no significant effect on elite scientists. Elite scholars have certain common characteristics, but significantly they are different from their average peers in terms of cultural capital and parental support and (d) elite female scientists have higher of cultural capital, economic capital, parental support, and academic success than elite male scientists. This finding supports the existence of the academic inequality and suggests that female scientists need higher cultural capital, economic capital, parental support, and perceived academic success to become elite scientists than their male counterparts.

774. Analytical validation, sample stability, and clinical evaluation of a new high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I immunoassay for use in dogs, with comparison to a previous ultrasensitive assay.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Wesselowski S, Lidbury J, Saunders AB

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is considered the gold standard biomarker for myocardial injury and shows a high degree of homology between humans and dogs. The ADVIA Centaur XP High-Sensitivity Troponin I (AC-cTnI-HS) assay has been validated for use in humans but not dogs. The study objectives were to analytically validate the AC-cTnI-HS assay in dogs, to assess correlation between the AC-cTnI-HS and a previous ADVIA Centaur TnI-Ultra (AC-cTnI-U) assay, to assess cTnI sample storage stability, and to clinically evaluate the AC-cTnI-HS assay in healthy dogs and dogs with cardiac disease. Canine serum samples were used for analytical validation. Intra- and inter-assay variability, dilutional parallelism, and spiking recovery were assessed. Samples from 196 client-owned dogs were evaluated (healthy dogs (n = 39) or dogs with congenital heart disease (n = 54), myxomatous mitral valve disease (n = 68), dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 15), or myocarditis (n = 20)). Inter- and intra-assay coefficient of variation (%CV) was between 2.8-41.4% and 3.8-30.2%, respectively, with pools with concentrations >20 pg/mL all having %CVs <10%. The observed to expected ratios for dilutional parallelism and spiking recovery experiments ranged between 92.3 and 266.7.0% and 84.3 and 108%, respectively. A strong correlation between the AC-cTnI-HS and AC-cTnI-U assays was observed (Spearman's ρ = 0.927), though a proportional bias existed, with AC-cTnI-HS assay concentrations being proportionally lower than AC-cTnI-U assay concentrations. Serum samples stored at -80°C had stable cTnI measurements for up to 2.7 years and after a single freeze-thaw cycle. Healthy dogs and dogs with congenital heart disease had significantly lower cTnI concentrations than dogs in the other three groups. The AC-cTnI-HS assay precisely, reproducibly, and accurately measures cTnI concentrations in dog serum with cTnI concentrations >20 pg/mL.

775. Patterns of mental health problems and well-being in children with disabilities in Sweden: A cross-sectional survey and cluster analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Täljedal T, Granlund M, Almqvist L

776. Fibrinolytic and antibiotic treatment of prosthetic vascular graft infections in a novel rat model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Johansen MI, Rahbek SJ, Jensen-Fangel S

OBJECTIVES: We developed a rat model of prosthetic vascular graft infection to assess, whether the fibrinolytic tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) could increase the efficacy of antibiotic therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rats were implanted a polyethylene graft in the common carotid artery, pre-inoculated with approx. 6 log10 colony forming units (CFU) of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Ten days after surgery, rats were randomized to either: 0.9% NaCl (n = 8), vancomycin (n = 8), vancomycin + tPA (n = 8), vancomycin + rifampicin (n = 18) or vancomycin + rifampicin + tPA (n = 18). Treatment duration was seven days. Approximately 36 hours after the end of treatment, the rats were euthanized, and grafts and organs were harvested for CFU enumeration. RESULTS: All animals in the control group had significantly higher CFU at the time of euthanization compared to bacterial load found on the grafts prior to inoculation (6.45 vs. 4.36 mean log10 CFU/mL, p = 0.0011), and both the procedure and infection were well tolerated. Vancomycin and rifampicin treatment were superior to monotherapy with vancomycin, as it lead to a marked decrease in median bacterial load on the grafts (3.50 vs. 6.56 log10 CFU/mL, p = 0.0016). The addition of tPA to vancomycin and rifampicin combination treatment did not show a further decrease in bacterial load (4.078 vs. 3.50 log10 CFU/mL, p = 0.26). The cure rate was 16% in the vancomycin + rifampicin group vs. 37.5% cure rate in the vancomycin + rifampicin + tPA group. Whilst interesting, this trend was not significant at our sample size (p = 0.24). CONCLUSION: We developed the first functional model of an arterial prosthetic vascular graft infection in rats. Antibiotic combination therapy with vancomycin and rifampicin was superior to vancomycin monotherapy, and the addition of tPA did not significantly reduce bacterial load, nor significantly increase cure rate.

777. Biochar-biofertilizer combinations enhance growth and nutrient uptake in silver maple grown in an urban soil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Sifton MA, Smith SM, Thomas SC.

778. Gell: A GPU-powered 3D hybrid simulator for large-scale multicellular system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Du J, Zhou Y, Jin L

779. Improving continence management for people with dementia in the community in Aotearoa, New Zealand: Protocol for a mixed methods study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Burholt V, Peri K, Awatere S

BACKGROUND: The number of people living with dementia (PLWD) in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) was estimated at 96,713 in 2020 and it is anticipated that this number will increase to 167,483 by 2050, including an estimated 12,039 Māori (indigenous people of NZ) with dementia. Experiencing urinary incontinence (UI) or faecal incontinence (FI) is common for PLWD, particularly at the later stages of the disease. However, there is no robust estimate for either prevalence or incidence of UI or FI for PLWD in NZ. Although caregivers rate independent toilet use as the most important activity of daily living to be preserved, continence care for PLWD in the community is currently not systematised and there is no structured care pathway. The evidence to guide continence practice is limited, and more needs to be known about caregiving and promoting continence and managing incontinence for PLWD in the community. This project will seek to understand the extent of the challenge and current practices of health professionals, PLWD, caregivers and family; identify promising strategies; co-develop culturally appropriate guidelines and support materials to improve outcomes; and identify appropriate quality indicators so that good continence care can be measured in future interventions. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A four-phase mixed methods study will be delivered over three years: three phases will run concurrently, followed by a fourth transformative sequential phase. Phase 1 will identify the prevalence and incidence of incontinence for PLWD in the community using a cohort study from standardised home care interRAI assessments. Phase 2 will explore continence management for PLWD in the community through a review of clinical policies and guidance from publicly funded continence services, and qualitative focus group interviews with health professionals. Phase 3 will explore experiences, strategies, impact and consequences of promoting continence and managing incontinence for PLWD in the community through secondary data analysis of an existing carers' study, and collecting new cross-sectional and longitudinal qualitative data from Māori and non-Māori PLWD and their caregivers. In Phase 4, two adapted 3-stage Delphi processes will be used to co-produce clinical guidelines and a core outcome set, while a series of workshops will be used to co-produce caregiver resources.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Hultén AM, Holmgren K, Bjerkeli P.

Work-related stress is common in Western society and disorders associated with stress are often managed in primary health care. This study was set to increase the understanding of the relationship between reason for consultation, work-related stress and diagnosis-specific sick leave for primary health care patients. The longitudinal observational study included 232 employed non-sick listed patients at seven primary health care centres in Sweden. Of these patients, 102 reported high work-related stress, as measured with the Work Stress Questionnaire, and 84 were on registered sick leave within one year after inclusion. The study showed that, compared to those who did not report high work-related stress, highly stressed patients more often sought care for mental symptoms (60/102 versus 24/130), sleep disturbance (37/102 versus 22/130) and fatigue (41/102 versus 34/130). The risk for sick leave with a mental diagnosis within a year after base-line was higher among patients reporting high work-related stress than among those who did not (RR 2.97, 95% CI 1.59;5.55). No such association was however found for the risk of sick leave with a musculoskeletal diagnosis (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.22;1.37). Seeking care for mental symptoms, sleep disturbance and fatigue were associated with having a future mental sick leave diagnosis (p-values < 0.001), while seeking care for musculoskeletal symptoms was associated with having a future musculoskeletal sick leave diagnosis (p-value 0.009). In summary, compared to those who did not report high work-related stress, patients with high work-related stress more often sought care for mental symptoms, sleep disturbance and fatigue which lead to a mental sick leave diagnosis. Reporting high work-related stress was, however, not linked to having sought care for musculoskeletal symptoms nor future sick leave due to a musculoskeletal diagnosis. Hence, both patients and general practitioners seem to characterize work-related stress as a mental complaint.

781. Cleavage of the V-ATPase associated prorenin receptor is mediated by PACE4 and is essential for growth of prostate cancer cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Mohammad AH, Couture F, Gamache I

782. Garden-path sentences and the diversity of their (mis)representations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Ceháková M, Chromý J.

783. Study of risk perception consumption behavior of sports tourism in China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Li G, Cheng Y, Cai J.

784. Rosmarinic acid ameliorates HCl-induced cystitis in rats.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Kitamura N, Yamamoto Y, Yamamoto N

785. Pro-fibrogenic and adipogenic aspects of chronic muscle degeneration are contributed by distinct stromal cell subpopulations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Özdemir C, Akçay D, Yöyen-Ermiş D

786. The correlation between NAFLD and serum uric acid to serum creatinine ratio.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Choi J, Joe H, Oh JE

BACKGROUND: With the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) increasing worldwide, many noninvasive techniques have been used to improve its diagnosis. Recently, the serum uric acid/creatinine (sUA/sCr) ratio was identified as an indicator of fatty liver disease. Therefore, we examined the relationship between sUA/sCr levels and ultrasound-diagnosed NAFLD in Korean adults. METHODS: This study included 16,666 20-year-olds or older who received health checkups at a university hospital's health promotion center from January to December 2021. Among them, 11,791 non-patients with and without NAFLD were analyzed, excluding those without abdominal ultrasound, those without data on fatty liver, cancer, or chronic kidney disease severity, those with a history of alcohol abuse, and those with serum hs-CRP <5 mg/L. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the sUA/sCr ratio according to the presence or absence of fatty liver disease and severity were calculated after correcting for confounding variables using logistic regression analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) of the sUA/sCr ratio confirmed and compared the sensitivity and specificity of NAFLD and serum uric acid. RESULTS: sUA/sCr increased with fatty liver severity, and the post-correction OR in the NAFLD group was 1.183 (95% CI: 1.137-1.231) compared to the group without NAFLD. Concerning the fatty liver severity, the post-correction OR in the mild NAFLD group increased to 1.147 (95% CI: 1.099-1.196), and that in the moderate-to-severe NAFLD group increased to 1.275 (95% CI: 1.212-1.341) compared to the group without NAFLD. The sensitivity of sUA/sCr to fatty liver severity was 57.9% for the non-NAFLD group, 56.7% for the mild NAFLD group, and 59.0% for the moderate-to-severe NAFLD group; the specificity of sUA/sCr to fatty liver severity 61.4% for the non-NAFLD group, 57.3% for the mild NAFLD group, and 65.2% for the moderate-to-severe NAFLD group. CONCLUSION: NAFLD severity is associated with sUA/sCR.

787. Exploring barriers and facilitators to women's intention and behavior to seek treatment for distressing sexual problems.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 18

Velten J, Margraf J.

Many women experience distressing problems with sexual functioning, most commonly in the form of low sexual desire or arousal, difficulties reaching orgasm, or genito-pelvic pain with sexual activity. Although effective treatments are available, more than half of the women who experience distressing sexual problems do not seek professional help. Understanding help-seeking patterns, experiences with treatment providers, and barriers to treatment is crucial to address this underutilization. Examining the role of personal characteristics, sexual problem symptoms, and cognitive factors in explaining the intention to seek treatment can help identify individuals who are most reluctant to seek help. Psychological online interventions are a promising resource to increase the availability of effective treatments. Knowledge about the predictors of women's intention to use internet-delivered treatments, as well as information about personal preferences regarding their scope, can help tailor them to women's needs. To address these research questions, cross-sectional data of 800 women (Mage = 30.49, range = 18-73) were analyzed. While many women considered clinical psychologists to be the most qualified treatment providers, gynecologists were cited as the most likely first point of contact. Among women not utilizing any treatments, many reported a preference for dealing with a sexual problem on their own as a reason not to seek help. Higher help-seeking intention was related to living in a larger city, experiencing higher sexual distress, experiencing pain or difficulties with vaginal penetration, higher self-stigma. and lower sexual assertiveness. Women who were convinced of the effectiveness of psychological online interventions and who appreciated the benefits of anonymity indicated that they were more likely to use them. Understanding what factors influence women's decisions about whether or not to seek professional help for distressing sexual problems is key to reducing the underutilization of available resources and developing treatments that meet their needs and preferences.

788. Optimizing antiretroviral therapy for children living with HIV: Experience from an observational cohort in Lesotho.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Tukei VJ, Herrera N, Masitha M

INTRODUCTION: We describe transition of HIV-positive children from efavirenz- or nevirapine-based antiretroviral therapy (ART) to optimal dolutegravir (DTG) or lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) (solid formulation)-based ART in Lesotho. METHODS: We followed a cohort of children less than 15 years of age who were initiated on ART on or after January 1, 2018 from 21 selected health facilities in Lesotho. From March 2020 to May 2022, we collected data retrospectively through chart abstraction and prospectively through caregiver interviews to cover a period of 24 months following treatment initiation. We used a structured questionnaire to collect data on demographics, ART regimen, drug formulations and switches, viral suppression, retention, and drug administration challenges. Data were summarized as frequencies and percentages, using SAS ver.9.4. RESULTS: Of 310 children enrolled in the study, 169 (54.5%) were female, and median age at ART initiation was 5.9 years (IQR 1.1-11.1). During follow-up, 19 (6.1%) children died, 41 (13.2%) were lost to follow-up and 74 (23.9%) transferred to non-study sites. At baseline, 144 (46.4%) children were receiving efavirenz-based ART regimen, 133 (42.9%) LPV/r, 27 (8.7%) DTG, 5 (1.6%) nevirapine; 1 child had incomplete records. By study end, 143 (46.1%) children were receiving LPV/r-based ART regimen, 109 (35.2%) DTG, and 58 (18.7%) were on efavirenz or nevirapine-based regimen. Of 116 children with viral load results after six months or more on a consistent regimen, viral suppression was seen in 35/53 (66.0%) children on LPV/r, 36/38 (94.7%) children on DTG and 19/24 (79.2%) children on efavirenz. CONCLUSION: Following optimal ART introduction in Lesotho, most children in the cohort were transitioned and many attained or maintained viral suppression after transition; however, we recommend more robust viral load monitoring and patient tracking to reduce losses and improve outcomes after ART transition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Zanni V, Frizzera D, Marroni F

790. Genotype profiles of high-risk human papillomavirus in women of reproductive age: A community-based study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Wulandari D, Meidyandra RW, Andrijono.

791. Family and personal history of cancer in the All of Us research program for precision medicine.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Keeler Bruce L, Paul P, Kim KK

792. Co-crystallisation and humanisation of an anti-HER2 single-domain antibody as a theranostic tool.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Sawmynaden K, Wong N, Davies S

793. Maternal saliva visfatin level in term and preterm labor: A case control study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Nasri K, Mehrabi M, Bayani M

794. Gamified assessment of cognitive performance during moderate hypoxia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Keeler JM, Tourula E, Hite MJ

795. Who should be first? How and when AI-human order influences procedural justice in a multistage decision-making process.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Jiang L, Qin X, Yam KC

796. Family health partners in regional network structures (NEST): A non-randomized controlled trial among parents of chronically ill and disabled children.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Nickel S, Helmreich I, Broll J

797. The morality and tax avoidance: A sentiment and position taking analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Lokanan M.

798. Enhancing forecast accuracy using combination methods for the hierarchical time series approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

A H Mohamed R.

799. Social presence and dynamics of group communication: An analysis of a health professionals WhatsApp group chats.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Mbada CE, Jeje OO, Akande M

800. STRategy: A support system for collecting and analyzing next-generation sequencing data of short tandem repeats for forensic science.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Kulthammanit N, Sathirapatya T, Sukawutthiya P

Short tandem repeats (STRs) are short repeated sequences commonly found in the human genome and valuable in forensic science, used for human identity and relatedness markers. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies, e.g., ForenSeq Signature Prep, can sequence STRs, inferring length-based alleles and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and providing valuable insights into population and sub-population structures. Despite the potential benefits of NGS for STRs, no open-source software platform integrates the collection, management, and analysis of STR data from NGS into one place. Users must use multiple programs to process their STR data and then collect the results into a separate database or a file system folder. Moreover, analyzing repeat structures (STR repeat motifs) may require learning multiple software tools, making the process inefficient and cumbersome. To address this gap, we introduce the STRategy, a standalone web-based application supporting essential STR data management and analysis capabilities. The STRategy allows users to collect their data into its database, automatically calculates forensic parameters, and visualizes the analyzed data in various forms. Users can search the database using different options, such as by profile, loci, and genotypes, with and without a specific test kit. Moreover, users can also find the nucleotide variants of a locus among the samples. We designed the STRategy for internal use in a laboratory or an organization. Hence, our system includes role-based access control that allows users to search for or access specific data based on their responsibilities. The administrator role can customize the system, for example, configure maps according to the samples' geographic data, and manage reference STR repeat motifs. A laboratory or an organization can download and install a copy of STRategy on their local system using Docker, as described in https://github.com/cucpbioinfo/STRategy. In summary, the STRategy is an end-to-end system that provides users with a database to collect the analyzed STR data from NGS, the dynamic analyses of forensic parameters, and the variants of STR patterns according to the newly added samples, which are then explorable via various search options and visualizations. The system is helpful for both forensic investigations and forensic genetics.

801. Patient education interventions for adolescent and young adult kidney transplant recipients- a scoping review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Corr M, McKeaveney C, Wurm F

802. Exploring the double burden of malnutrition at the household level in the Philippines: Analysis of National Nutrition Survey data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Gaupholm J, Dodd W, Papadopoulos A

803. Hepatitis B status and associated factors among participants screened for simulated HIV vaccine efficacy trials in Kenya and Uganda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Mayanja Y, Rida W, Kimani J

INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis B (HBV) prevalence remains high in Sub Saharan Africa and among some key populations such as those with continued exposure through sexual contact. We assessed the HBV status among potential participants who were screened for simulated HIV vaccine efficacy trials in Kenya and Uganda. METHODS: We conducted a cross sectional analysis of data collected from individuals who were screened in Kenya (Nairobi) and Uganda (Entebbe and Kampala). The studies followed hypothetical procedures of an HIV vaccine efficacy trial and aimed to enroll HIV negative key and vulnerable populations at elevated risk of HIV acquisition. HBV status was the main outcome categorized using Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and total Hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb). Baseline characteristics potentially associated with never being infected were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS: We screened 1,366 participants with mean age (SD) 28.7 (7.3) years. Overall, 46.6% were from Entebbe, 50.7% had secondary or higher level of education, 76.4% had informal high-risk jobs and 56.3% were male. Kampala had only female participants contributing 60.6% of females screened. Of the screened participants, 94.7% and 3.4% were negative and positive for HBsAg respectively. The prevalence on HBV infection was 3.9% among males and 2.8% among females while prevalence by site was: Entebbe (4.9%); Kampala (4.1%) and Nairobi (0.3%). The highest HBV prevalence was found among participants aged 25-29-years (5.2%), those with primary level education (4.5%), and those in informal low risk jobs (6.5%). Considering 1265 participants with complete data on HBsAg and HBcAb-Total, HBV status was never infected (67.9%), past infection (28.5%), chronic infection (3.2%) and acute infection (0.5%). Of 859 who were never infected, 685 (79.7%) were tested for anti-HBs titers of whom 60 (8.8%) had titers >10IU/L (immune due to vaccination). The odds of never being HBV infected were lower among older individuals 25-29 years (AOR 0.51; 95%CI 0.36-0.71) and ≥30 years (AOR 0.35; 95% CI 0.25-0.49). The odds were higher among participants with informal high-risk jobs from Kampala (AOR 2.21; 95% CI 1.41-3.47) and Nairobi (AOR 2.61; 95% CI 1.72-4.00) compared to those from Entebbe. CONCLUSION: HBV prevalence and immunity due to vaccination were low among HIV negative individuals who are eligible for HIV vaccine trials and prevalence varies by age, education level and main occupation. Younger individuals and those recruited from existing cohorts/ clinics have a higher likelihood of having no prior HBV infection. HIV prevention intervention trials are a platform to identify individuals that need HBV vaccination.

804. A longitudinal investigation of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Abramovich A, Pang N, Kim KV

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to examine the impacts of the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on various dimensions of wellbeing among 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness over a 12-month period during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: 2SLGBTQ+ youth (recruited using a convenience sampling method) participated in three online surveys to assess mental health (depression, anxiety, suicidality), substance and alcohol use, health care access, and violence for 12-months between 2021-2022. Quantitative data analysis included non-parametric one-sample proportion tests, paired t-test and McNemar's test. Longitudinal data collected across all three timepoints were treated as paired data and compared to baseline data using non-parametric exact multinomial tests, and if significant, followed by pairwise post-hoc exact binomial tests. For the purposes of analysis, participants were grouped according to their baseline survey based on pandemic waves and public health restrictions. RESULTS: 2SLGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness (n = 87) reported high rates of mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, over 12-months during the pandemic. Youth participants reported experiencing poor mental health during the early waves of the pandemic, with improvements to their mental health throughout the pandemic; however, results were not statistically significant. Likewise, participants experienced reduced access to mental health care during the early waves of the pandemic but mental health care access increased for youth throughout the pandemic. CONCLUSION: Study results showed high rates of mental health issues among 2SLGBTQ+ youth, but reduced access to mental health care, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings highlight the need for 2SLGBTQ+ inclusive and affirming mental health care and services to address social and mental health issues that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.

805. Sex difference in driving speed management: The mediation effect of impulse control.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Pan C, Ma J, Li Y

806. 'When you give kindness out, you get it back ten times more': Ontario adults' prosocial behaviour during the first 16 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Shillington KJ, Yates J, Vanderloo LM

807. Ever-never heard of 'Malaysian Healthy Plate': How many people know and practice this healthy eating concept?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

A MH, C A R N, S M C

INTRODUCTION: The current and simpler healthy eating concept 'Malaysian Healthy Plate', was introduced in 2016. This study aims to determine the prevalence of ever-never heard, understanding, and practice of this concept and also the associated factors to never-heard of Malaysian Health Plate after three years of the implementation. METHODOLOGY: This study utilized the data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019, a cross-sectional survey that applied two-stage stratified cluster sampling. Questionnaires pertained to ever heard, knowledge, and practised of Malaysian Healthy Plate were asked along with another questionnaire. Complex sample analysis was applied to fit with the study design. RESULTS: Estimated 16.9 million (79.6%) adults in Malaysia were never heard of the Malaysian Healthy Plate Concept in 2019. Never heard of this concept was significantly associated with sex (men, aOR 0.265), ethnicity (other ethnicities, aOR 1.79), an education level (no education, aOR 9.59; primary, aOR 3.50; secondary, aOR 1.70), occupation (private, aOR 2.16; self-employed, aOR 2.31; retirees, aOR 1.69; student, aOR 2.31; unpaid workers, aOA 2.35; not working, aOR 2.86), non-diabetes aOR 1.43, and low fruit and vegetable intake person aOR 1.86. Meanwhile, another 20.4% or an estimated 4.3 million adults who were ever heard of Malaysian Healthy Plate. Among those who are ever heard, 80.8% (3.5 million) correctly interpreted or understood the concept and among those who ever heard and understood the concept, only 70.5% (2.5 million) have been practising it daily or occasionally. CONCLUSIONS: Four-fifth of adults never heard of the 'Malaysian Healthy Plate' and among those who ever heard, the understanding and practising of the concept were probably unsatisfactory. Multisectoral collaboration is an urge to fasten the promotion to spark awareness and educate the public to practice the concept to promote healthy eating and a healthier nation.

808. The geographical pension gap: Understanding the causes of inequality in China's pension funds.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Zhang S, Wang X, Li H

809. The advanced concepts for septal l-strut re-designing in septorhinoplasty for better strength and stability by considering of center of gravity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Wongchadakul P, Lohasammakul S, Rattanadecho P

810. Effects of plyometric training on technical skill performance among athletes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Deng N, Soh KG, Abdullah B

BACKGROUND: The literature has proven that plyometric training (PT) improves various physical performance outcomes in sports. Even though PT is one of the most often employed strength training methods, a thorough analysis of PT and how it affects technical skill performance in sports needs to be improved. METHODS: This study aimed to compile and synthesize the existing studies on the effects of PT on healthy athletes' technical skill performance. A comprehensive search of SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and SPORTDiscus databases was performed on 3rd May 2023. PICOS was employed to establish the inclusion criteria: 1) healthy athletes; 2) a PT program; 3) compared a plyometric intervention to an active control group; 4) tested at least one measure of athletes' technical skill performance; and 5) randomized control designs. The methodological quality of each individual study was evaluated using the PEDro scale. The random-effects model was used to compute the meta-analyses. Subgroup analyses were performed (participant age, gender, PT length, session duration, frequency, and number of sessions). Certainty or confidence in the body of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE). RESULTS: Thirty-two moderate-high-quality studies involving 1078 athletes aged 10-40 years met the inclusion criteria. The PT intervention lasted for 4 to 16 weeks, with one to three exercise sessions per week. Small-to-moderate effect sizes were found for performance of throwing velocity (i.e., handball, baseball, water polo) (ES = 0.78; p < 0.001), kicking velocity and distance (i.e., soccer) (ES = 0.37-0.44; all p < 0.005), and speed dribbling (i.e., handball, basketball, soccer) (ES = 0.85; p = 0.014), while no significant effects on stride rate (i.e., running) were noted (ES = 0.32; p = 0.137). Sub-analyses of moderator factors included 16 data sets. Only training length significantly modulated PT effects on throwing velocity (> 7 weeks, ES = 1.05; ≤ 7 weeks, ES = 0.29; p = 0.011). The level of certainty of the evidence for the meta-analyzed outcomes ranged from low to moderate. CONCLUSION: Our findings have shown that PT can be effective in enhancing technical skills measures in youth and adult athletes. Sub-group analyses suggest that PT longer (> 7 weeks) lengths appear to be more effective for improving throwing velocity. However, to fully determine the effectiveness of PT in improving sport-specific technical skill outcomes and ultimately enhancing competition performance, further high-quality research covering a wider range of sports is required.

811. Nepalese version of Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) questionnaire for detection of neuropathic pain signs and symptoms: Translation and psychometric properties.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Shakya BM, Shrestha A, Poudyal AK

812. Cardiovascular burden and unemployment: A retrospective study in a large population-based French cohort.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Sanchez Rico M, Plessz M, Airagnes G

The specific effect of unemployment on cardiovascular health relatively to the effects of social position and work environment is still unclear. To clarify this effect, the associations between current or past unemployment and the prevalence of common cardiovascular risk factor and events were tested using multiple logistic regression models with adjustment for both social position and prior work environment. The analyses were performed in a population-based French cohort (CONSTANCES) that included 131,186 adults enrolled between 2012 and 2021. Participants who were unemployed at inclusion (n = 8278) were overexposed to non-moderate alcohol consumption, smoking, leisure-time physical inactivity and depression (odds ratios (ORs) from 1.19 to 1.58) whereas those who have been unemployed at least once in the past (n = 19,015) were additionally overexposed not only to the previous risk factors but also to obesity, diabetes and sleep disorders (ORs from 1.10 to 1.35). These latter were also more exposed to non-fatal myocardial infarction and peripheral arterial disease (ORs of 1.44 and 1.47 respectively), overexposures that persisted after further adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors (ORs of 1.36 and 1.33). The overexposures to risk factors and cardiovascular events were both dependent on the duration of past unemployment. They were equally observed in participants with low social position or bad work environment. These results suggest that unemployment increases cardiovascular risk independently from social position and work environment with a cumulative effect over time. The effect of unemployment could add up to those of low social position and bad work environment during lifetime to further increase cardiovascular risk. They also suggest that long-term unemployment increases the prevalence of cardiovascular events through pathways including but not limited to overexposure to common risk factors.

813. High wax ester and triacylglycerol biosynthesis potential in coastal sediments of Antarctic and Subantarctic environments.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Galván V, Pascutti F, Sandoval NE

814. The micro-economic effects of COVID-19 containment measures: A simple model and evidence from China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Chen W, Chao S, Ye J.

815. Seroprevalence of non-typhoidal Salmonella disease and associated factors in children in Mukuru settlement in Nairobi County, Kenya.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Peter SK, Mutiso JM, Ngetich M

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infections remain a significant public health challenge especially in sub-Saharan Africa. NTS disease is endemic in Kenya and is associated with sporadic fatal outbreaks in several regions of the country with poor resource setting. Data is limited on background exposure of NTS in the population in endemic areas and the general immune status of the community most affected by NTS. The aim of the study was to determine the proportion of children exposed to Salmonella Enteritidis or Salmonella Typhimurium O antigen among the apparently healthy children and patients and the associated host and environmental factors among children attending selected healthcare facilities in Mukuru, Nairobi County, Kenya. A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted among patients and apparently healthy participants aged 0-5 years. Blood was collected and centrifuged to obtain serum. The serum was used to test for the presence of antibodies (IgA, IgG, IgM) against NTS using ELISA. A questionnaire was administered to obtain relevant demographic, socio-economic and healthcare utilization information. A total of 382 children were recruited into the study. The NTS seroprevalence was 12.6%. Among the apparently healthy participants, mean age of those exposed to NTS was 36 months and those not exposed was 27 months. Among patients, the mean age was 39 months and those not exposed was 30 months. The seroprevalence of NTS infection among the apparently healthy was significantly associated with cooking water, washing water and age of the child. Treating water using chlorine or boiling method was identified as being protective against contracting Salmonella Typhimurium/Enteritidis. Among the patients, the proportion of exposure was significantly associated with keeping animals and the chicken count. There is a high exposure to NTS among young children below five years of age and the population has developed immunity to the disease.

816. Research on the influencing factors and improvement paths of digital trade development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt--Based on entropy-weighting TOPSIS and fsQCA method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Hu X, Liu F.

817. Optimization of differentiation and transcriptomic profile of THP-1 cells into macrophage by PMA.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Liu T, Huang T, Li J

818. Repeat sprint fatigue and altered neuromuscular performance in recreationally trained basketball players.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Philipp NM, Cabarkapa D, Eserhaut DA

The primary aim of the present study was to investigate how the fatigue induced through a repeat sprint protocol acutely affected different measures of neuromuscular performance. Recreationally trained basketball players (n = 25) volunteered to participate in the study, and performed three countermovement jumps (CMJ), as well as three drop jumps (DJ) prior to a fatiguing repeat sprint protocol. These procedures were repeated two minutes, and 15 minutes, following the protocol. Various force-time metrics were extracted from the jump tasks, and linear mixed models with subject ID as the random factor, and time as the fixed factor were used to investigate changes across the three time points. To account for the performance during the repeat sprint protocol, a second, two factor model was performed with time and repeat sprint ability (RSA) as the fixed factors. Study results indicated that the sample as a whole merely experienced fatigue-induced decreases in jump height from pre-repeat sprint ability protocol (pre-RSA) within the CMJ compared to two minutes post-repeat sprint ability protocol (post-RSA1) and 15 minutes post-repeat sprint ability protocol (post-RSA2), while jump height within the DJ was only significantly different from pre-RSA at post-RSA1. Further, despite the implementation of the fatiguing RSA protocol, over the course of the three time-points, participants seemed to perform the two jump tasks more efficiently, seen through significantly lower contraction times, greater eccentric (ECC) peak power, and greater ECC mean deceleration force within the CMJ following the RSA task. The two-factor model revealed that several significant time*RSA interactions were found for metrics such as ECC peak velocity and peak power in the CMJ, as well as reactive strength index in the DJ. This suggests that the level of RSA influenced changes across CMJ and DJ characteristics and should be accounted for when interpreting fatigue-induced changes in neuromuscular performance.

819. A web-based survey on self-management for patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Japan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Nagahori M, Imai T, Nakashoji M

820. Biological investigation of resinous endodontic sealers containing calcium hydroxide.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Bueno CRE, Benetti F, Cury MTS

821. Impact of airway challenges on cardiovascular risk in asthma - a randomized controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Moore LE, Brotto AR, Fuhr DP

BACKGROUND: People experiencing asthma exacerbations are at increased risk of cardiovascular events. To better understand the relationship between asthma exacerbations and cardiovascular risk, this randomized case-control, cross-over controlled trial assessed the immediate systemic inflammatory and vascular responses to acutely induced pulmonary inflammation and bronchoconstriction in people with asthma and controls. METHODS: Twenty-six people with asthma and 25 controls underwent three airway challenges (placebo, mannitol, and methacholine) in random order. Markers of cardiovascular risk, including serum C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor, endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation), microvascular function (blood-flow following reactive hyperemia), and arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity) were evaluated at baseline and within one hour following each challenge. The systemic responses in a) asthma/control and b) positive airway challenges were analyzed. (ClinicalTrials.gov reg# NCT02630511). RESULTS: Both the mannitol and methacholine challenges resulted in clinically significant reductions in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) in asthma (-7.6% and -17.9%, respectively). Following positive challenges, reduction in FEV1 was -27.6% for methacholine and -14.2% for mannitol. No meaningful differences in predictors of cardiovascular risk were observed between airway challenges regardless of bronchoconstrictor response. CONCLUSION: Neither acutely induced bronchoconstriction nor pulmonary inflammation and bronchoconstriction resulted in meaningful changes in systemic inflammatory or vascular function. These findings question whether the increased cardiovascular risk associated with asthma exacerbations is secondary to acute bronchoconstriction or inflammation, and suggest that other factors need to be further evaluated such as the cardiovascular impacts of short-acting inhaled beta-agonists.

822. Onset of ADL and IADL limitation among Chinese middle-aged and older adults.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Zheng W, Huang Z.

823. Evolutionary dynamics in financial markets with heterogeneities in investment strategies and reference points.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Xu WJ, Zhong CY, Ren F

824. Development and validation of a scoring system to predict mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19: A retrospective cohort study in two large hospitals in Ecuador.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Dueñas-Espín I, Echeverría-Mora M, Montenegro-Fárez C

OBJECTIVE: To develop and validate a scoring system to predict mortality among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. METHODS: Retrospective cohort study. We analyzed 5,062 analyzed hospitalized patients with COVID-19 treated at two hospitals; one each in Quito and Guayaquil, from February to July 2020. We assessed predictors of mortality using survival analyses and Cox models. We randomly divided the database into two sets: (i) the derivation cohort (n = 2497) to identify predictors of mortality, and (ii) the validation cohort (n = 2565) to test the discriminative ability of a scoring system. After multivariate analyses, we used the final model's β-coefficients to build the score. Statistical analyses involved the development of a Cox proportional hazards regression model, assessment of goodness of fit, discrimination, and calibration. RESULTS: There was a higher mortality risk for these factors: male sex [(hazard ratio (HR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.03-1.69], per each increase in a quartile of ages (HR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.24-1.67) considering the younger group (17-44 years old) as the reference, presence of hypoxemia (HR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.01-1.95), hypoglycemia and hospital hyperglycemia (HR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.01-3.91, and HR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.99-1.62, respectively) when compared with normoglycemia, an AST-ALT ratio >1 (HR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.25-1.92), C-reactive protein level (CRP) of >10 mg/dL (HR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.07-2.08), arterial pH <7.35 (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.08-1.80) when compared with normal pH (7.35-7.45), and a white blood cell count >10 × 103 per μL (HR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.35-2.29). We found a strong discriminative ability in the proposed score in the validation cohort [AUC of 0.876 (95% CI: 0.822-0.930)], moreover, a cutoff score ≥39 points demonstrates superior performance with a sensitivity of 93.10%, a specificity of 70.28%, and a correct classification rate of 72.66%. The LR+ (3.1328) and LR- (0.0981) values further support its efficacy in identifying high-risk patients. CONCLUSION: Male sex, increasing age, hypoxemia, hypoglycemia or hospital hyperglycemia, AST-ALT ratio >1, elevated CRP, altered arterial pH, and leucocytosis were factors significantly associated with higher mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. A statistically significant Cox regression model with strong discriminatory power and good calibration was developed to predict mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, highlighting its potential clinical utility.

825. Prescription patterns of granulocyte colony-stimulating factors in patients with breast cancer: A real-world study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Hsu SW, Chiang SC, Hsu JC

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Myelosuppressive chemotherapy is effective for breast cancer but carries a potential risk of febrile neutropenia (FN). Clinical practice guidelines have recommended prophylaxis with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) to reduce the incidence of FN in patients receiving chemotherapy. We aimed to examine the use of G-CSFs for primary prophylaxis for FN and to see whether it follows the guidelines. In addition, we examined the changes in the use of long-acting and short-acting G-CSFs in patients with breast cancer over the past ten years. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational real-world study. The data were obtained from the clinical research database of three hospitals affiliated with Taipei Medical University. Patients with breast cancer who initiated their first chemotherapy regimen between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2020, were identified by the ICD codes and their use of filgrastim or pegfilgrastim was identified by the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes. Whether and how G-CSF was prescribed during the study patients' first chemotherapy regimen was examined, and the annual change in the total number of short- and long-acting G-CSFs prescribed to the study patients from 2011 to 2020 was analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 2,444 patients who were prescribed at least one of the examined 15 breast cancer chemotherapy drugs, 1,414 did not use any G-CSFs during their first chemotherapy regimen while 145 used G-CSFs for primary prophylaxis and 185 for treatment. Among the patients receiving high FN risk regimens, only 8.6% used G-CSF for primary prophylaxis. The average (± SD) number of days for short-acting G-CSF use was 2.3 (± 1.5) days with a median of 2 days. In addition, it was found that there was a significant reduction in long-acting G-CSF use (p = 0.03) whereas the changes in short-acting G-CSF use over time were not significant (p = 0.50). CONCLUSIONS: Our study results show that G-CSFs are used for primary prophylaxis in a small percentage of patients with breast cancer and the duration of short-acting G-CSF use is relatively short. Considering the significant clinical and economic impact of FN, it is hoped that the prescription patterns of G-CSFs observed can provide an important reference for future clinical practice and reimbursement policy.

826. Availability and use of personal protective equipment in low- and middle-income countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 17

Drouard SHP, Ahmed T, Amor Fernandez P

BACKGROUND: Availability and appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is of particular importance in Low and Middle-Income countries (LMICs) where disease outbreaks other than COVID-19 are frequent and health workers are scarce. This study assesses the availability of necessary PPE items during the COVID-19 pandemic at health facilities in seven LMICs. METHODS: Data were collected using a rapid-cycle survey among 1554 health facilities in seven LMICs via phone-based surveys between August 2020 and December 2021. We gathered data on the availability of World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended PPE items and the use of items when examining patients suspected to be infected with COVID-19. We further investigated the implementation of service adaptation measures in a severe shortage of PPE. RESULTS: There were major deficiencies in PPE availability at health facilities. Almost 3 out of 10 health facilities reported a stock-out of medical masks on the survey day. Forty-six percent of facilities did not have respirator masks, and 16% did not have any gloves. We show that only 43% of health facilities had sufficient PPE to comply with WHO guidelines. Even when all items were available, healthcare workers treating COVID-19 suspected patients were reported to wear all the recommended equipment in only 61% of health facilities. We did not find a statistically significant difference in implementing service adaptation measures between facilities experiencing a severe shortage or not. CONCLUSION: After more than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, the overall availability of PPE remained low in our sample of low and middle-income countries. Although essential, the availability of PPE did not guarantee the proper use of the equipment. The lack of PPE availability and improper use of available PPE enable preventable COVID-19 transmission in health facilities, leading to greater morbidity and mortality and risking the continuity of service delivery by healthcare workers.

827. A new scoring system with simple preoperative parameters as predictors of early recurrence of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Shimagaki T, Sugimachi K, Mano Y

828. Epidemiological analysis of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients on ships arriving at Busan port in Korea, 2020.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Do KH, Yang J, Do OS

829. Comparison of the clinical characteristics and clinical outcomes of culture-positive septic shock and culture-negative septic shock among pediatric patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Kim DH, Park SJ, Jhang WK.

830. Morpho-agronomic variability of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] genotypes in Dire Dawa, eastern Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Kenaw W, Mohammed W, Woldetsadik K.

831. Dengue seroprevalence study in Bali.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Masyeni S, Fatawy RM, Paramasatiari AAAL

832. Which method is optimal for estimating variance components and their variability in generalizability theory? evidence form a set of unified rules for bootstrap method.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Li G.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to compare the performance of the four estimation methods (traditional method, jackknife method, bootstrap method, and MCMC method), find the optimal one, and make a set of unified rules for Bootstrap. METHODS: Based on four types of simulated data (normal, dichotomous, polytomous, and skewed data), this study estimates and compares the estimated variance components and their variability of the four estimation methods when using a p×i design in generalizability theory. The estimated variance components are vc.p, vc.i and vc.pi and the variability of estimated variance components are their estimated standard errors (SE(vc.p), SE(vc.i) and SE(vc.pi)) and confidence intervals (CI(vc.p), CI(vc.i) and CI(vc.pi)). RESULTS: For the normal data, all the four methods can accurately estimate the variance components and their variability. For the dichotomous data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i) of traditional method is 128.5714, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i), SE (vc.pi) and CI (vc.i) of jackknife method are 42.8571, 43.6893 and 40.5000, which are larger than 25 and not accurate. For the polytomous data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i) and CI (vc.i) of MCMC method are 59.6612 and 45.2500, which are larger than 25 and not accurate. For the skewed data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.p), SE (vc.i) and SE (vc. pi) of traditional method and MCMC method are over 25, which are not accurate. Only the bootstrap method can estimate variance components and their variability accurately across different data distribution. Nonetheless, the divide-and-conquer strategy must be used when adopting the bootstrap method. CONCLUSIONS: The bootstrap method is optimal among the four methods and shows the cross-distribution superiority over the other three methods. However, a set of unified rules for the divide-and-conquer strategy need to be recommended for the bootstrap method, which is optimal when boot-p for p (person), boot-pi for i (item), and boot-i for pi (person × item).

833. Zero fruits/vegetables consumption and associated factors among Children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia: Mixed effect logistic regression analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Semagn BE, Abubakari A.

BACKGROUND: The first two years of life is a vital period for promoting optimal growth, development and health. The lifelong nutritional habit and overall health of children is influenced by their early age feeding practice. Ethiopia is among the top five countries in Sub-Saharan Africa with the highest burden of zero fruits/vegetables consumption. This study aims to access factors associated with zero fruits/vegetables consumption among children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia. METHODS: The study analyzed Ethiopian Mini Demographic and Health Survey 2019 dataset with a total weighted sample of 1459 young children aged between 6-23 months and who were living with their mothers. Data cleaning, coding and labeling were done using STATA version 14 software. Multilevel mixed effect logistic regression model was employed to identify associated factors. RESULTS: Exactly 69.3% of children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia had zero fruits/vegetables consumption. In the multivariable multilevel binary logistic regression analysis a child from household with middle (AOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.35, 0.86) and rich (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.60) wealth index, mothers who aged between 25-34 years old (AOR = 0.44; 95%CI = 0.29-0.69), mothers who were married/living with partner (AOR = 3.21; 95%CI: 1.58-6.52), children of mothers who follow Islamic religion (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.61), mothers who had more than four ANC visits during their most recent pregnancy (AOR = 0.57; 95%CI: 0.39-0.83), children in age group of 12-18 month(AOR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.59), and 19-23 months (AOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.17, 0.40), health facility delivery (AOR = 1.52, 95% CI; 1.00-2.30), and small peripheral regions (AOR = 4.40, 95% CI; 1.39-13.97) were found to be significant factors associated with children's zero fruits /vegetables consumption. The Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) value in the null model was 0.34, which indicates that 34% of the variation in children's zero fruits /vegetables consumption was attributed to the variation between clusters. CONCLUSION: This study found that zero fruits/vegetables consumption among children aged 6-23 months in Ethiopia is high. Therefore, efforts should be made by stakeholders who are concerned about optimal diet and health of children to improve fruits/vegetables consumption of children particularly those from poor households, young mothers (15-24), and peripheral regions of Ethiopia. This could be done during ANC follow up visits and during nutrition counseling.

834. Hepmarc: A 96 week randomised controlled feasibility trial of add-on maraviroc in people with HIV and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Bradshaw D, Abramowicz I, Bremner S

OBJECTIVES: Maraviroc may reduce hepatic inflammation in people with HIV and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (HIV-NAFLD) through CCR5-receptor antagonism, which warrants further exploration. METHODS: We performed an open-label 96-week randomised-controlled feasibility trial of maraviroc plus optimised background therapy (OBT) versus OBT alone, in a 1:1 ratio, for people with virologically-suppressed HIV-1 and NAFLD without cirrhosis. Dosing followed recommendations for HIV therapy in the Summary of Product Characteristics for maraviroc. The primary outcomes were safety, recruitment and retention rates, adherence and data completeness. Secondary outcomes included the change in Fibroscan-assessed liver stiffness measurements (LSM), controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) scores. RESULTS: Fifty-three participants (53/60, 88% of target) were recruited; 23 received maraviroc plus OBT; 89% were male; 19% had type 2 diabetes mellitus. The median baseline LSM, CAP & ELF scores were 6.2 (IQR 4.6-7.8) kPa, 325 (IQR 279-351) dB/m and 9.1 (IQR 8.6-9.6) respectively. Primary outcomes: all individuals eligible after screening were randomised; there was 92% (SD 6.6%) adherence to maraviroc [target >90%]; 83% (95%CI 70%-92%) participant retention [target >65%]; 5.5% of data were missing [target <20%]. There were noo Serious Adverse Reactions; mild-moderate intensity Adverse Reactions were reported by five participants (5/23, 22% (95%CI 5%-49%)) [target <10%]. All Adverse Reactions resolved. Secondary outcomes: no important differences were seen by treatment group for the change from baseline in LSM, CAP or ELF scores. CONCLUSIONS: This feasibility study provides preliminary evidence of maraviroc safety amongst people with HIV-NAFLD, and acceptable recruitment, retention, and adherence rates. These data support a definitive randomised-controlled trial assessing maraviroc impact on hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical trial registry: ISCRTN, registration number 31461655.

835. Finger fractures: Epidemiology and treatment based on 21341 fractures from the Swedish Fracture register.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Alfort H, Von Kieseritzky J, Wilcke M.

836. Applicability of F-specific bacteriophage subgroups, PMMoV and crAssphage as indicators of source specific fecal contamination and viral inactivation in rivers in Japan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Meuchi Y, Nakada M, Kuroda K

To date, several microbes have been proposed as potential source-specific indicators of fecal pollution. 16S ribosomal RNA gene markers of the Bacteroidales species are the most widely applied due to their predominance in the water environment and source specificity. F-specific bacteriophage (FPH) subgroups, especially FRNA phage genogroups, are also known as potential source-specific viral indicators. Since they can be quantified by both culture-based and molecular assays, they may also be useful as indicators for estimating viral inactivation in the environment. Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) and crAssphage, which are frequently present in human feces, are also potentially useful as human-specific indicators of viral pollution. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of FPH subgroups, PMMoV, and crAssphage as indicators of source-specific fecal contamination and viral inactivation using 108 surface water samples collected at five sites affected by municipal and pig farm wastewater. The host specificity of the FPH subgroups, PMMoV, and crAssphage was evaluated by principal component analysis (PCA) along with other microbial indicators, such as 16S ribosomal RNA gene markers of the Bacteroidales species. The viabilities (infectivity indices) of FRNA phage genogroups were estimated by comparing their numbers determined by infectivity-based and molecular assays. The PCA explained 58.2% of the total information and classified microbes into three groups: those considered to be associated with pig and human fecal contamination and others. Infective and gene of genogroup IV (GIV)-FRNA phage were assumed to be specific to pig fecal contamination, while the genes of GII-FRNA phage and crAssphage were identified to be specific to human fecal contamination. However, PMMoV, infective GI-FRNA phage, and FDNA phage were suggested to not be specific to human or pig fecal contamination. FRNA phage genogroups, especially the GIV-FRNA phage, were highly inactivated in the warm months in Japan (i.e., July to November). Comparing the infectivity index of several FRNA phage genogroups or other viruses may provide further insight into viral inactivation in the natural environment and by water treatments.

837. Identifying multivariate disease trajectories and potential phenotypes of early knee osteoarthritis in the CHECK cohort.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Altamirano S, Jansen MP, Oberski DL

OBJECTIVE: To gain better understanding of osteoarthritis (OA) heterogeneity and its predictors for distinguishing OA phenotypes. This could provide the opportunity to tailor prevention and treatment strategies and thus improve care. DESIGN: Ten year follow-up data from CHECK (1002 early-OA subjects with first general practitioner visit for complaints ≤6 months before inclusion) was used. Data were collected on WOMAC (pain, function, stiffness), quantitative radiographic tibiofemoral (TF) OA characteristics, and semi-quantitative radiographic patellofemoral (PF) OA characteristics. Using functional data analysis, distinctive sets of trajectories were identified for WOMAC, TF and PF characteristics, based on model fit and clinical interpretation. The probabilities of knee membership to each trajectory were used in hierarchical cluster analyses to derive knee OA phenotypes. The number and composition of potential phenotypes was selected again based on model fit (silhouette score) and clinical interpretation. RESULTS: Five trajectories representing different constant levels or changing WOMAC scores were identified. For TF and PF OA, eight and six trajectories respectively were identified based on (changes in) joint space narrowing, osteophytes and sclerosis. Combining the probabilities of knees belonging to these different trajectories resulted in six clusters ('phenotypes') of knees with different degrees of functional (WOMAC) and radiographic (PF) parameters; TF parameters were found not to significantly contribute to clustering. Including baseline characteristics as well resulted in eight clusters of knees, dominated by sex, menopausal status and WOMAC scores, with only limited contribution of PF features. CONCLUSIONS: Several stable and progressive trajectories of OA symptoms and radiographic features were identified, resulting in phenotypes with relatively independent symptomatic and radiographic features. Sex and menopausal status may be especially important when phenotyping knee OA patients, while radiographic features contributed less. Possible phenotypes were identified that, after validation, could aid personalized treatments and patients selection.

838. Third-trimester persistent maternal hypotension effects on late-onset small for gestational age and adverse perinatal outcomes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Eraslan Sahin M, Sahin E, Kirlangic MM.

839. Variation in perceived health across gender, working status, educational level, and regional health care expenditure in Spain (2014-2017).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Godoy-Bermúdez A, Rojo-Gallego-Burin A, Delgado-Márquez L

840. Silkworm model of biofilm formation: In vivo evaluation of antimicrobial tolerance of a cross-kingdom dual-species (Escherichia coli and Candida albicans) biofilm on catheter material.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Eshima S, Matsumoto Y, Kurakado S

841. Dynamic transcriptome profiling provides insights into rhizome enlargement in ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Ren Y, Li WB, Li ZX

842. Supply chain finance and innovation efficiency: An empirical analysis based on manufacturing SMEs.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Wang Q, Yuan S, Ostic D

843. Spatial distribution and influencing factors of high-quality tourist attractions in Shandong Province, China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Wang M, Liu S, Wang C.

844. Access to essential psychotropic medicines in Addis Ababa: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Teshager M, Araya M, Fenta TG.

845. A multicentric, single arm, prospective, stratified clinical investigation to evaluate MammoWave's ability in breast lesions detection.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Sánchez-Bayuela DÁ, Ghavami N, Tiberi G

Microwave imaging is a safe and promising new technology in breast radiology, avoiding discomfort of breast compression and usage of ionizing radiation. This paper presents the first prospective microwave breast imaging study during which both symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects were recruited. Specifically, a prospective multicentre international clinical trial was performed in 2020-2021, to investigate the capability of a microwave imaging device (MammoWave) in allowing distinction between breasts with no radiological finding (NF) and breasts with radiological findings (WF), i.e., with benign or malignant lesions. Each breast scan was performed with the volunteers lying on a dedicated examination table in a comfortable prone position. MammoWave output was compared to reference standard (i.e., radiologic study obtained within the last month and integrated with histological one if available and deemed necessary by responsible investigator) to classify breasts into NF/WF categories. MammoWave output consists of a selection of microwave images' features (determined prior to trials' start), which allow distinction between NF and WF breasts (using statistical significance p<0.05). 353 women were enrolled in the study (mean age 51 years ± 12 [SD], minimum age 19, maximum age 78); MammoWave data from the first 15 women of each site, all with NF breasts, were used for calibration. Following central assessor evaluation, 111 NF (48 dense) and 272 WF (136 dense) breasts were used for comparison with MammoWave output. 272 WF comprised 182 benign findings and 90 malignant histology-confirmed cancer. A sensitivity of 82.3% was achieved (95%CI: 0.78-0.87); sensitivity is maintained when limiting the investigation to histology-confirmed breasts cancer only (90 histology-confirmed breasts cancer have been included in this analysis, having sizes ranging from 3 mm to 60 mm). Specificity value of approximately 50% was achieved as expected, since thresholds were calculated (for each feature) using median value obtained after recruiting the first 15 women (of each site), all NF. This prospective trial may represent another step for introducing microwave imaging into clinical practice, for helping in breast lesion identification in asymptomatic women.

846. Influence of chronic liver diseases on the course and outcome of COVID-19.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Mitrovic N, Sabanovic M, Vujovic A

847. Artificial intelligence for detecting temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis using radiographic image data: A systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Xu L, Chen J, Qiu K

848. The impact of digital economy on regional technological innovation capability: An analysis based on China's provincial panel data.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Tian Z, Li Y, Niu X

849. Home bias and local equity portfolio decisions of Chinese insurance institutional investors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Yang S, He N, Yu H.

850. Virus purification highlights the high susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 to a chlorine-based disinfectant, chlorous acid.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Lawal-Ayinde BM, Morita T, Oda K

851. Expression of genes with biomarker potential identified in skin from DSLD-affected horses increases with age.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Roberts JH, Zhang J, David F

Degenerative Suspensory Ligament Desmitis (DSLD) negatively impacts connective tissues in horses, which often leads to progressive chronic pain and lameness. DSLD has been shown to be a systemic disorder that affects multiple body systems, including tendons, sclerae, and the aorta. Currently, the diagnosis is confirmed by post mortem histological examination of a tendon or suspensory ligament. Histology reveals inappropriate accumulations of proteoglycans in the tendons and other tissues in DSLD-affected horses. Unfortunately, there is no reliable method to diagnose DSLD in living horses. Recently, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) was identified in active DSLD lesions. In addition, recent data from RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) showed overexpression of numerous genes, among them BMP2, FOS and genes for keratins in DSLD skin biopsies-derived RNA. We hypothesized that some of these genes can be used as biomarkers for diagnosis of DSLD in a panel. Overexpression of some of them was verified in quantitative real time PCR. Immunohistochemistry and RNAscope in-situ hybridization (ISH) assays were used to determine the level of overexpression of specific genes in skin biopsies from control and DSLD-affected horses. The RNAscope ISH assay has shown to be more reliable and more specific that immunohistochemistry. ISH confirmed a significant increase in KRT83 and BMP-2 in hair follicles in DSLD cases, as well as abnormally high expression of FOS in the epidermis, especially in aging horses. Because statistically relevant specificity and sensitivity was documented only for FOS and BMP2, but not KRT83 we recommend the use of FOS and BMP2 panel to diagnose DSLD. We conclude that a panel of two markers from the studied group (BMP2 and FOS) can serve as an additional diagnostic tool for DSLD in living horses, especially in older animals. Further studies are necessary to confirm if this biomarker panel could be used as a prospective tool to identify DSLD in horses as they age.

852. Use of very short answer questions compared to multiple choice questions in undergraduate medical students: An external validation study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

van Wijk EV, Janse RJ, Ruijter BN

Multiple choice questions (MCQs) offer high reliability and easy machine-marking, but allow for cueing and stimulate recognition-based learning. Very short answer questions (VSAQs), which are open-ended questions requiring a very short answer, may circumvent these limitations. Although VSAQ use in medical assessment increases, almost all research on reliability and validity of VSAQs in medical education has been performed by a single research group with extensive experience in the development of VSAQs. Therefore, we aimed to validate previous findings about VSAQ reliability, discrimination, and acceptability in undergraduate medical students and teachers with limited experience in VSAQs development. To validate the results presented in previous studies, we partially replicated a previous study and extended results on student experiences. Dutch undergraduate medical students (n = 375) were randomized to VSAQs first and MCQs second or vice versa in a formative exam in two courses, to determine reliability, discrimination, and cueing. Acceptability for teachers (i.e., VSAQ review time) was determined in the summative exam. Reliability (Cronbach's α) was 0.74 for VSAQs and 0.57 for MCQs in one course. In the other course, Cronbach's α was 0.87 for VSAQs and 0.83 for MCQs. Discrimination (average Rir) was 0.27 vs. 0.17 and 0.43 vs. 0.39 for VSAQs vs. MCQs, respectively. Reviewing time of one VSAQ for the entire student cohort was ±2 minutes on average. Positive cueing occurred more in MCQs than in VSAQs (20% vs. 4% and 20.8% vs. 8.3% of questions per person in both courses). This study validates the positive results regarding VSAQs reliability, discrimination, and acceptability in undergraduate medical students. Furthermore, we demonstrate that VSAQ use is reliable among teachers with limited experience in writing and marking VSAQs. The short learning curve for teachers, favourable marking time and applicability regardless of the topic suggest that VSAQs might also be valuable beyond medical assessment.

853. Standard diagnostics with and without urine-based lipoarabinomannan testing for tuberculosis disease in HIV-infected patients in a high-burden setting-A cost-effectiveness analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Fekadu G, Wang Y, You JHS.

854. Spatial variability of the Po River food web and its comparison with the Danube River food web.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Patonai K, Jordán F, Castaldelli G

855. The safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided erector spinae plane block in postoperative analgesic of PCNL: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Liu J, Fang S, Wang Y

BACKGROUND: The patients received percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) with severe postoperative pain and discomfort. The erector spinae plane block (ESPB), as a new anesthesia method of plane block, has a positive effect on postoperative analgesia. But evidence of ESPB in PCNL is still lacking. The objective of this study was to systematically analyze the postoperative analgesic effect of ESPB in patients receiving PCNL. METHODS: The literature searching was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Clinical Trial Database (clinicaltrials.gov). Two independent researchers screened the included studies and extracted data. Meta-analysis was conducted by using the random-effect model with 95% confidence intervals. Chi-squared test with a significance level of 0.1 was utilized to evaluate the heterogeneity of included studies. The subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were conducted in studies with high heterogeneity. The publication bias was assessed based on whether there were discrepancies between prospective trial registration and reported protocols. RESULTS: There were 8 studies involving 456 patients assessing the efficacy of ESPB in reducing postoperative pain score of PCNL compared with no block or other blocks, such as subcutaneous infiltration, general anesthesia or TPVB intrathecal morphine. ESPB was a significantly effective and safe anesthesia method, which not only improved postoperative pain response (MD -1.76; 95% CI -2.57 to -0.94; I 2 = 85%; p<0.01), but also reduced analgesic consumption (MD -16.92; 95% CI -26.25 to -7.59; I 2 = 92.2%; p<0.01) and prolonged the time of first request for postoperative analgesia (MD 93.27; 95% CI 35.79 to 150.75; I 2 = 85.3%; p = 0.001) in patients receiving PCNL without significant postoperative complications (MD 0.80; 95% CI 0.31 to 2.03; I 2 = 0%; p = 0.404). CONCLUSIONS: Compared with no block or other blocks, the ESPB was a safe and effective anesthesia for patients receiving PCNL.

856. Determining the clinical and cost-effectiveness of nasal sprays and a physical activity and stress management intervention to reduce respiratory tract infections in primary care: A protocol for the 'Immune Defence' randomised controlled trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Vennik J, Geraghty AWA, Martinson K

BACKGROUND: Most adults in the UK experience at least one viral respiratory tract infection (RTI) per year. Individuals with comorbidities and those with recurrent RTIs are at higher risk of infections. This can lead to more severe illness, worse quality of life and more days off work. There is promising evidence that using common nasal sprays or improving immune function through increasing physical activity and managing stress, may reduce the incidence and severity of RTIs. METHODS AND DESIGN: Immune Defence is an open, parallel group, randomised controlled trial. Up to 15000 adults from UK general practices, with a comorbidity or risk factor for infection and/or recurrent infections (3 or more infections per year) will be randomly allocated to i) a gel-based nasal spray designed to inhibit viral respiratory infections; ii) a saline nasal spray, iii) a digital intervention promoting physical activity and stress management, or iv) usual care with brief advice for managing infections, for 12 months. Participants will complete monthly questionnaires online. The primary outcome is the total number of days of illness due to RTIs over 6 months. Key secondary outcomes include: days with symptoms moderately bad or worse; days where work/normal activities were impaired; incidence of RTI; incidence of COVID-19; health service contacts; antibiotic usage; beliefs about antibiotics; intention to consult; number of days of illness in total due to respiratory tract infections over 12 months. Economic evaluation from an NHS perspective will compare the interventions, expressed as incremental cost effectiveness ratios. A nested mixed methods process evaluation will examine uptake and engagement with the interventions and trial procedures. TRIAL STATUS: Recruitment commenced in December 2020 and the last participant is expected to complete the trial in April 2024. DISCUSSION: Common nasal sprays and digital interventions to promote physical activity and stress management are low cost, accessible interventions applicable to primary care. If effective, they have the potential to reduce the individual and societal impact of RTIs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Prospectively registered with ISRCTN registry (17936080) on 30/10/2020. SPONSOR: This RCT is sponsored by University of Southampton. The sponsors had no role in the study design, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

857. Molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli isolated from children under age five with and without diarrhea in Central Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Zelelie TZ, Eguale T, Yitayew B

BACKGROUND: Diarrhea is a serious health problem in children, with the highest mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa. Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) is among the major bacterial causes of diarrhea in children under age five. The present study aims to determine molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance profiles of DEC and identify contributing factors for acquisition among children under age five in Central Ethiopia. METHODS: A health facility-centered cross-sectional study was conducted in Addis Ababa and Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, from December 2020 to August 2021. A total of 476 specimens, 391 from diarrheic and 85 from non-diarrheic children under age five were collected. Bacterial isolation and identification, antimicrobial susceptibility, and pathotype determination using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were done. RESULTS: Of the 476 specimens analyzed, 89.9% (428/476) were positive for E. coli, of which 183 were positive for one or more genes coding DEC pathotypes. The overall prevalence of the DEC pathotype was 38.2% (183/476). The predominant DEC pathotype was enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) (41.5%, 76/183), followed by enterotoxigenic E. coli (21.3%, 39/183), enteropathogenic E. coli (15.3%, 28/183), enteroinvasive E. coli (12.6%, 23/183), hybrid strains (7.1%, 13/183), Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (1.6%, 3/183), and diffusely-adherent E. coli (0.6%, 1/183). DEC was detected in 40.7% (159/391) of diarrheic and 28.2% (24/85) in non-diarrheic children (p = 0.020). The majority of the DEC pathotypes were resistant to ampicillin (95.1%, 174/183) and tetracycline (91.3%, 167/183). A higher rate of resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (58%, 44/76), ciprofloxacin (22%, 17/76), ceftazidime and cefotaxime (20%, 15/76) was seen among EAEC pathotypes. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 43.2% (79/183) of the pathotypes, whereas extended spectrum ß-lactamase and carbapenemase producers were 16.4% (30/183) and 2.2% (4/183), respectively. CONCLUSION: All six common DEC pathotypes that have the potential to cause severe diarrheal outbreaks were found in children in the study area; the dominant one being EAEC with a high rate of MDR.

858. Projected cancer burden, challenges, and barriers to cancer prevention and control activities in the state of Telangana.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Mahajan H, Reddy N, Devi NGM

BACKGROUND AND AIM: The Telangana cancer care program is a proactive, comprehensive initiative encompassing infrastructure development, human resource skilling and ensuring financial protection to those below poverty line. The broad aim of this exercise was to identify modalities to augment the Telangana State Cancer Control Plan to implement a sustainable comprehensive cancer care model for Telangana. METHODS: We conducted in-depth interviews of stakeholders (17 patients and 25 health care providers) to identify barriers and challenges to access existing cancer care system in Telangana; calculated the magnitude of cancer and commensurate workload (in terms of visits to tertiary cancer care system for cancer management and human and equipment requirement) for the next 15 years (from 2022 to 2037). Using the anecdotal evidence and information from stakeholders' interviews, we developed patient-journey funnels for oral, breast, and cervical cancer patients to highlight patient leakages at various levels of cancer care. RESULTS: We estimated a 13%, 28%, and 44.7% increase in the number of new cancer cases and the resultant workload (number of visits to health care centre, chemotherapy sessions, radiotherapy sessions, surgeries, specialized human resources and equipment), for the year 2027, 2032, and 2037, respectively, compared to the year 2022. The stakeholders mentioned 'delayed access' to healthcare system as the main reason for the poor prognosis of patients. The common reasons cited for 'delayed access' were: poor cancer-literacy including prevailing myths and misconception, financial barriers, and rural residence. The patient journey funnel for cancer care revealed a major leakage from 'screened-positive' to 'diagnosis confirmation' step. The estimated patient leakage varied from ~70% to 90% from 'screened-positive' till 'treatment completion'. CONCLUSION: In this study, we anticipated a steady increase in the number of new cancers cases and resultant workload for the state of Telangana from the year 2022 to 2037. This may further be accompanied with limited access or utilization of cancer care system. To manage this public health issue, government should take appropriate measures to improve cancer literacy at the community level as well as increase human resources and necessary equipment.

859. Nutritional status of tribal and non-tribal adults in rural Bangladesh: A comparative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Karim MR, Mamun ASMA, Hossain MR

BACKGROUND: Nutritional status is an important indicator of health status among adults. However, to date, there exists scanty information on the nutritional status of tribal populations of Bangladesh. The aim of the study was to investigate the nutritional status of tribal (T) and non-tribal (NT) adult people living in the rural area of Rajshahi district, Bangladesh. METHODS: A total of 420 (72 T and 348 NT) households were studied. The samples were selected using multistage stratified sampling with proportional allocation. The nutritional status of adults was measured using body mass index (BMI). Descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA and Z-proportional test were utilized for data analysis. RESULTS: The study revealed that 8.3% and 9.2% of T and NT men were suffering from under nutrition respectively, while the corresponding figures in women were 12.5% and 10.1% respectively. Overall, 11.1% and 27.0% men, and 13.9% and 29.3% women T and NT were over-nourished respectively. The rate of over nutrition among T was significantly (p<0.05) higher than NT for both sexes. The mean weight and BMI of the NT men were significantly (p<0.01) higher than T men. The mean weight, height and BMI of NT women were higher (p<0.05) than T women. ANOVA demonstrated that the variation in BMI among education levels of NT men and the variation among occupation for both ethnicities were significant (p<0.01). The variation in BMI among education levels and occupation of T and NT women were significant (p<0.05), moreover ordinal logistic regression model demonstrated that hygienic toilet facilities and father's occupation were predictors of nutritional status. The interaction effects of education and occupation, and education and household monthly income on BMI were significant (p<0.01) for T men and both T and NT women (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of over-nutrition among NT is higher than T for both sexes. Some socio-economic and demographic factors were found as predictors of malnutrition. At least 12 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contain indicators that are highly related to nutrition, our findings can help Bangladesh Government for achieving SDGs by 2030. Appropriate nutritional intervention and awareness programmes can be initiated by the Government to ameliorate the burden of malnutrition among adults in the country.

860. Microbiology sampling in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis cases from northern Alberta.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Wagner MJ, Dimitrov M, Lam GY

861. Examining influencing factors of express delivery stations' spatial distribution using the gradient boosting decision trees: A case study of Nanjing, China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

He Q, Sun S.

862. Internet of things security evaluation mechanism based on meta attribute fluctuation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Liu Z, Yuan Y, Zhao B

863. Open-source 3-D printable autoinjector: Design, testing, and regulatory limitations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Selvaraj A, Kulkarni A, Pearce JM.

Autoinjectors have become popular modern injectable medical devices used as drug delivery systems. Due to their ease, capability and reliability compared to other conventional injectable medical devices, the market and manufacturing demand for autoinjector devices are increasing rapidly and expected to reach a market of $37.5 billion globally by 2025. Although autoinjectors can offset healthcare treatment costs through self-administered medication, they can be expensive for consumers, which limit their accessibility. This study describes the design and manufacture of a spring-driven and 3-D printed autoinjector to overcome this economic accessibility challenge. The digitally replicable device is released as open-source hardware to enable low-cost distributed manufacturing. The bill of materials and assembly instructions are detailed, and the effectiveness of the autoinjector is tested against the current standard (ISO 11608-1:2022) for needle-based injection systems. The safety and dosing accuracy was tested by measuring the weight of 100% ethyl alcohol expelled from six BD Insulin syringes with varying capacities or needle lengths. A one-way analysis assessed the variability between the dose delivery efficiency of 1mL, 0.5mL, and 0.3mL syringes. Testing indicated that the entire dose was delivered over 97.5% of the time for 1mL and 0.5mL syringes, but the autoinjector's loaded spring force and size exceeded structural limitations of 0.3mL or smaller syringes. Components can be manufactured in about twelve hours using an open-source desktop RepRap-class fused filament 3-D printer. The construction requires two compression springs and 3-D printed parts. The total material cost of CAD$6.83 is less than a tenth of comparable commercial autoinjectors, which makes this approach promising. The autoinjector, however, is a class two medical device and must be approved by regulators. Future work is needed to make distributed manufacturing of such medical devices feasible and reliable to support individuals burdened by healthcare costs.

864. Large hydropower projects increase stress despite compensation efforts: Evidence from the Brazilian Amazon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Mayer A, Cavallini Johansen I, Lopez MC

865. Rapid and sensitive detection of waterfowl mycoplasmas using TaqMan assays.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Nemesházi E, Wehmann E, Grózner D

866. Factors associated with home death in South Korea: Using the exit data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, 2008-2018.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Cheon J, Kim DH, Cho CM.

BACKGROUND: Even though home deaths have been reported to improve quality of life, satisfy patients and families, and reduce healthcare expenditures, not enough is known about the factors that influence home deaths in Korea. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the factors associated with home deaths among middle-aged and older adults in South Korea. METHODS: This secondary data analysis used core interview and exit interview data of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging conducted between 2008 and 2018. The deceased included adults over the age of 45 years. The exit data were obtained from interviews with family members or other acquaintances known to the deceased every two years since 2008. Complex-sample logistic regression was conducted using 1,565 middle-aged and older deceased adults. RESULTS: Among 1,565 decedents, the average age at the time of death was 80.67±10.69 in the home death group, and 78.72±9.83 in the non-home death group. The proportion of home-related deaths was 26.4%. Age over 81 years was associated with increased odds of home death, whereas having two or more living children, living in town/small city, paid medical expenses by children/grandchildren and their spouses, expected death, death from disease, and having three or more chronic diseases were associated with decreased odds of home death. An increase in activities of daily living during three months before death was associated with a decrease in home death. CONCLUSION: The findings could help healthcare professionals develop tailored interventions to help people die at their preferred place of death based on family characteristics and healthcare accessibility. Age, residential area, number of children and children's financial support, and illness-related factors influenced home death by creating differences in access to healthcare resources and support. Policymakers should decrease healthcare disparities and improve health resource allocation and home-based care.

867. Investigation into relationships between design parameters and mechanical properties of 3D printed PCL/nHAp bone scaffolds.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Yazdanpanah Z, Kumar Sharma N, Zimmerling A

BACKGROUND: Scaffolds are of great importance in tissue engineering applications as they provide a mechanically supportive environment for cellular activity, which is particularly necessary for hard tissues such as bone. Notably, the mechanical properties of a scaffold vary with differing design parameters such as those related to scaffold height and internal structure. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the relationship between design parameters and mechanical properties of composite polycaprolactone (PCL) and nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) scaffolds fabricated by three-dimensional (3D) printing. METHODS: We designed and printed scaffolds with different internal structures (lattice and staggered) and varying heights (4, 6, 8 and 10 layers), and consistent porosity (50%) for the purpose of comparison. Then, we examined the scaffold microstructure (pore size and penetration between layers) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and mechanical properties (elastic modulus and yield strength) using compressive testing. RESULTS: Our results illustrated that the microstructural parameters were related to scaffold design. At higher heights, pore size increased while penetration between layers decreased; thus, mechanical properties were affected. Results of mechanical testing demonstrated that for lattice scaffolds, elastic modulus was similar for 6 vs 4, and 8 vs 4 layers but ~33% lower for 10 layers vs 4 layers. Similarly, yield strength was comparable for 6 vs 4, and 8 vs 4 layers but ~27% lower for 10 layers vs 4 layers. With staggered scaffolds, when compared to 4-layer results, elastic modulus was similar for 6 layers but was ~43% lower for 8 layers and ~38% lower for 10 layers. Staggered scaffolds had ~38%, ~51%, and ~76% lower yield strength when the number of layers were increased from 4 to 6, 8, and 10 layers, respectively. When comparing lattice and staggered scaffolds with the same layer number, elastic modulus was similar, apart from 8-layer scaffolds where the staggered design was ~42% lower than lattice. Yield strength was similar between 4-layer staggered and lattice scaffolds, while staggered scaffolds with 6, 8, and 10 number of layers showed ~43%, ~45%, ~68% lower strength, respectively, than those found in lattice scaffolds with the same layer numbers. CONCLUSIONS: Mechanical properties of 3D printed scaffolds depended on scaffold height for both lattice and staggered internal structures. Staggered scaffolds had lower mechanical properties than the lattice scaffolds with the same height and were more sensitive to the change in scaffold height. Taken together, lattice scaffolds demonstrated the advantages of more stable mechanical properties over staggered scaffolds. Also, scaffolds with lower height were more promising in terms of mechanical properties compared to scaffolds with greater height.

868. Metabolic and inflammatory profiles, gut microbiota and lifestyle factors in overweight and normal weight young thai adults.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Somnuk S, Komindr S, Monkhai S

Obesity among young adults, especially those living in developing countries is increasing. A high body mass index (BMI) is one of the major causes of several diseases worldwide, constituting an important risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Investigations describing the relationship between BMI, clinical and gut microbiota characteristics and lifestyle factors of overweight young adults, especially from Southeast Asian countries are limited. Metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers, fecal microbiota profiles and lifestyle factors were compared between overweight Thai young adults (n = 30, mean age 33 ± 9.48) and those with normal weight (n = 30, mean age 27 ±7.50). This study was registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20220204007). Health status including body composition, fasting glucose and insulin, lipid profiles, liver and kidney function, inflammatory biomarkers, blood pressure and fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing data was determined. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day dietary record and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), with physical activity levels compared using the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). The overweight group had significantly higher BMI, waist-hip ratio, body fat mass, % body fat, skeletal mass, triglyceride level, C-reactive protein, insulin and blood pressure, with lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and blood urea nitrogen compared to the normal weight group. Significant differences in fecal microbiota composition at the family and genus levels were observed between the two groups. In our clinical setting, we also observed that unhealthy diets with high consumption of food rich in fat and sugar, processed meat and alcohol, and physical inactivity were associated with an increased prevalence of overweight in Thai young adults. Results provided the big picture of health and lifestyle characteristics of overweight young Thai people. Young adults should be encouraged to engage in health-promoting activities that maintain healthy bodyweight.

869. Utilization and factors associated with health facility delivery among women of reproductive age in rural Ethiopia: Mixed effect logistic regression analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Semagn BE.

870. Diabetes self-management education interventions and self-management in low-resource settings; a mixed methods study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Lamptey R, Amoakoh-Coleman M, Djobalar B

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes is largely a self-managed disease; thus, care outcomes are closely linked to self-management behaviours. Structured self-management education (DSME) interventions are, however, largely unavailable in Africa. AIM: We sought to characterise DSME interventions in two urban low-resource primary settings; and to explore diabetes self-management knowledge and behaviours, of persons living with diabetes (PLD). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A convergent parallel mixed-methods study was conducted between January and February 2021 in Accra, Ghana. The sampling methods used for selecting participants were total enumeration, consecutive sampling, purposive and judgemental sampling. Multivariable regression models were used to study the association between diabetes self-management knowledge and behaviours. We employed inductive content analysis of informants' experiences and context, to complement the quantitative findings. RESULTS: In total, 425 PLD (70.1% (n = 298) females, mean age 58 years (SD 12), with a mean blood glucose of 9.4 mmol/l (SD 6.4)) participated in the quantitative study. Two managers, five professionals, two diabetes experts and 16 PLD participated in in-depth interviews. Finally, 24 PLD were involved in four focus group discussions. The median diabetes self-management knowledge score was 40% ((IQR 20-60). For every one unit increase in diabetes self-management knowledge, there were corresponding increases in the diet (5%;[95% CI: 2%-9%, p<0.05]), exercise (5%; [95% CI:2%-8%, p<0.05]) and glucose monitoring (4%;[95% CI:2%-5%, p<0.05]) domains of the diabetes self-care activities scale respectively. The DSME interventions studied, were unstructured and limited by resources. Financial constraints, conflicting messages, beliefs, and stigma were the themes underpinning self-management behaviour. CONCLUSIONS: The DSME interventions studied were under-resourced, and unstructured. Diabetes self-management knowledge though limited, was associated with self-management behaviour. DSME interventions in low resource settings should be culturally tailored and should incorporate sessions on mitigating financial constraints. Future studies should focus on creating structured DSME interventions suited to resource-constrained settings.

871. Physical literacy assessment in adults: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Boldovskaia A, Dias NMG, Silva MN

Physical literacy is a multidimensional construct that has been defined and interpreted in various ways, one of the most common being "the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to maintain physical activity throughout the life course". Although its improvement can positively affect many behavioral, psychological, social, and physical variables, debate remains over an appropriate method of collecting empirical physical literacy data. This systematic review sought to identify and critically evaluate all primary studies (published and unpublished, regardless of design or language) that assessed physical literacy in adults or have proposed measurement criteria. Relevant studies were identified by searching four databases (Pubmed, SportDiscus, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science), scanning reference lists of included articles, and manual cross-referencing of bibliographies cited in prior reviews. The final search was concluded on July 15, 2022. Thirty-one studies, published from 2016 to 2022, were analyzed. We found seven instruments measuring physical literacy in adults, of which six were questionnaires. The Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument was the first developed for adults and the most adopted. The included studies approached physical literacy definition in two ways: by pre-defining domains and assessing them discretely (through pre-validated or self-constructed instruments) and by defining domains as sub-scales after factorial analyses. We found a fair use of objective and subjective measures to assess different domains. The wide use of instruments developed for other purposes in combined assessments suggests the need for further instrument development and the potential oversimplification of the holistic concept, which may not result in a better understanding of physical literacy. Quality and usability characteristics of measurements were generally insufficiently reported. This lack of data makes it impossible to compare and make robust conclusions. We could not identify if any of the existing physical literacy assessments for adults is appropriate for large-scale/epidemiological studies.

872. Mathematical modeling of Dengue virus serotypes propagation in Mexico.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Sánchez-González G, Condé R.

873. Reliability of surface electromyographic (sEMG) measures of equine axial and appendicular muscles during overground trot.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

St George L, Spoormakers TJP, Roy SH

The reliability of surface electromyography (sEMG) has not been adequately demonstrated in the equine literature and is an essential consideration as a methodology for application in clinical gait analysis. This observational study investigated within-session, intra-subject (stride-to-stride) and inter-subject reliability, and between-session reliability of normalised sEMG activity profiles, from triceps brachii (triceps), latissimus dorsi (latissimus), longissimus dorsi (longissimus), biceps femoris (biceps), superficial gluteal (gluteal) and semitendinosus muscles in n = 8 clinically non-lame horses during in-hand trot. sEMG sensors were bilaterally located on muscles to collect data during two test sessions (session 1 and 2) with a minimum 24-hour interval. Raw sEMG signals from ten trot strides per horse and session were DC-offset removed, high-pass filtered (40 Hz), full-wave rectified, and low-pass filtered (25 Hz). Signals were normalised to peak amplitude and percent stride before calculating intra- and inter-subject ensemble average sEMG profiles across strides for each muscle and session. sEMG profiles were assessed using waveform similarity statistics: the coefficient of variation (CV) to assess intra- and inter-subject reliability and the adjusted coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC) to evaluate between-session reliability. Across muscles, CV data revealed that intra-horse sEMG profiles within- and between-sessions were comparatively more reliable than inter-horse profiles. Bilateral gluteal, semitendinosus, triceps and longissimus (at T14 and L1) and right biceps showed excellent between-session reliability with group-averaged CMCs > 0.90 (range 0.90-0.97). Bilateral latissimus and left biceps showed good between-session reliability with group-averaged CMCs > 0.75 (range 0.78-0.88). sEMG profiles can reliably describe fundamental muscle activity patterns for selected equine muscles within a test session for individual horses (intra-subject). However, these profiles are more variable across horses (inter-subject) and between sessions (between-session reliability), suggesting that it is reasonable to use sEMG to objectively monitor the intra-individual activity of these muscles across multiple gait evaluation sessions at in-hand trot.

874. Establishment of a value evaluation system for health and wellness tourism resources: Reflections on China's official tourism resource evaluation criteria.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Zhou M, Luo H, Hong J

875. CHO-produced RBD-Fc subunit vaccines with alternative adjuvants generate immune responses against SARS-CoV-2.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Laotee S, Duangkaew M, Jivapetthai A

876. Short communication: Antibacterial effects of essential oils from Cinnamomum cassia bark and Eucalyptus globulus leaves-The involvements of major constituents.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Nguyen HTT, Miyamoto A, Nguyen HT

877. Effects of mobile device use on emotional and behavioral problems in the CBCL among preschoolers: Do shared reading and maternal depression matter?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Wu HY, Lin WY, Huang JP

878. Malaria infection and its association with socio-demographics, long lasting insecticide nets usage and hematological parameters among adolescent patients in rural Southwestern Nigeria.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Ibrahim AO, Agbesanwa TA, Aremu SK

879. Dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion-weighted and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging findings in pilocytic astrocytoma and H3.3 and H3.1 variant diffuse midline glioma, H3K27-altered.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Kurokawa R, Kurokawa M, Baba A

880. A pilot randomized controlled trial of distance laughter therapy for mothers' level of depression, anxiety, and parental stress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Ko Y, Park S.

881. Quantifying inter-annual variability on the space-use of parental Northern Gannets (Morus bassanus) in pursuit of different prey types.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

d'Entremont KJN, Pratte I, Gjerdrum C

Spatial planning for marine areas of multi-species conservation concern requires in-depth assessment of the distribution of predators and their prey. Northern Gannets Morus bassanus are generalist predators that predate several different forage fishes depending on their availability. In the western North Atlantic, gannets employ different dive tactics while in pursuit of different prey types, performing deep, prolonged U-shaped dives when foraging on capelin (Mallotus villosus), and rapid, shallow, V-shaped dives when foraging on larger pelagic fishes. Therefore, much can be inferred about the distribution and abundance of key forage fishes by assessing the foraging behaviour and space-use of gannets. In this study, we aimed to quantify space-use and to determine areas of suitable foraging habitat for gannets in pursuit of different prey types using habitat suitability models and kernel density utilization distributions. We deployed 25 GPS/Time-depth recorder devices on parental Northern Gannets at Cape St. Mary's, Newfoundland, Canada from 2019 to 2021. To assess the influence of environmental variables on gannets foraging for different prey types, we constructed three different habitat suitability models: a U-shaped dive model, and two V-shaped dive models (early and late chick-rearing). Suitable foraging habitat for capelin, deduced by the U-shaped dive model, was defined by coastal, shallow waters with flat relief and sea surface temperatures (SST) of 11-15° C. Suitable habitat for early V-shaped dives was defined by shallow and coastal waters with steep slope and SST of 12-15°C and ~18°C, likely reflecting the variability in environmental preferences of different prey species captured when performing V-shaped dives. Suitable habitat for late V-shaped dives was defined by shallow coastal waters (<100m depth), as well as waters deeper than 200 m, and by SST greater than 16°C. We show that space-use by gannets can vary both within and between years depending on environmental conditions and the prey they are searching for, with consequences for the extent of potential interaction with anthropogenic activities. Further, we suggest regions defined as suitable for U-shaped dives are likely to be critical habitat of multi-species conservation concern, as these regions are likely to represent consistent capelin spawning habitat.

882. Results following implementation of a cardiac surgery ERAS protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Obafemi T, Mullis D, Bajaj S

883. Droplet digital PCR versus real-time PCR for in-house validation of porcine detection and quantification protocol: An artificial recombinant plasmid approach.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Nuraeni U, Malau J, Astuti RT

884. Human nucleolar protein SURF6/RRP14 participates in early steps of pre-rRNA processing.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Moraleva A, Deryabin A, Kordyukova M

The biogenesis of ribosomes requires tightly controlled transcription and processing of pre-rRNA which comprises ribosomal RNAs forming the core of large and small ribosomal subunits. Early steps of the pre-rRNA processing and assembly of the ribosomal subunits require a large set of proteins that perform folding and nucleolytic cleavage of pre-rRNAs in the nucleoli. Structure and functions of proteins involved in the pre-rRNA processing have been extensively studied in the budding yeast S. cerevisiae. Functional characterization of their human homologues is complicated by the complexity of mammalian ribosomes and increased number of protein factors involved in the ribosomal biogenesis. Homologues of human nucleolar protein SURF6 from yeast and mouse, Rrp14 and Surf6, respectively, had been shown to be involved in the early steps of pre-rRNA processing. Rrp14 works as RNA chaperone in complex with proteins Ssf1 and Rrp15. Human SURF6 knockdown and overexpression were used to clarify a role of SURF6 in the early steps of pre-rRNA processing in human cell lines HeLa and HTC116. By analyzing the abundance of the rRNA precursors in cells with decreased level or overexpression of SURF6, we demonstrated that human SURF6 is involved in the maturation of rRNAs from both small and large ribosomal subunits. Changes in the SURF6 level caused by knockdown or overexpression of the protein do not result in the death of HeLa cells in contrast to murine embryonic fibroblasts, but significantly alter the distribution of cells among the phases of the cell cycle. SURF6 knockdown in both p53 sufficient and p53 deficient HCT116 human cancer cells results in elongation of G0/G1 and shortening of G2/M phase. This surprising result suggests p53 independence of SURF6 effects on the cell cycle and possible multiple functions of SURF6. Our data point to the shift from pathway 1 to pathway 2 of the rRNA biogenesis caused by the SURF6 knockdown and its likely association with p53 pathway.

885. Don't stop me now: Psychological effects of interrupting a moving pedestrian crowd and a video game.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Üsten E, Sieben A.

Interruptions are a part of our everyday lives. They are inevitable in complex societies, especially when many people move from one place to another as a part of their daily routines. The main aim of this research is to understand the effects of interruptions on individuals from a psychological and crowd dynamics perspective. Two studies were conducted to investigate this issue, with each focusing on different types of interruptions and examining their psychological (emotion, motivation, arousal) and physiological (heart rate) components. Study 1 examined interruptions in a video game setting and systematically varied goal proximity (N = 61). It was hypothesized that being interrupted in the later stages of goal pursuit would create a high aroused impatience state, while interruptions in the earlier stages would produce a low aroused boredom state. However, the results showed that the hypothesized groupwise differences were not observed. Instead, interruptions created annoyance in all conditions, both psychologically and physiologically. Study 2 investigated interruptions in pedestrian crowds (N = 301) and used a basic motivational dichotomy of high and low motivation. In the experiments, crowds (80-100 participants) were asked to imagine that they were entering a concert hall consisting of a narrow bottleneck. The low motivation group reported feeling bored during the interruption, while the high motivation group reported feeling impatient. Additionally, a motivational decrease was observed for the high motivation group due to the interruption. This drop in motivation after the interruption is also reflected in the measured density (person/m2) in front of the bottleneck. Overall, both studies showed that interruption can have significant effects on individuals, including psychological and physiological impacts. The observed motivational decrease through interruption is particularly relevant for crowd management, but further investigation is needed to understand the context-specific effects of interruptions.

886. Effect of γ-PGA and γ-PGA SAP on soil microenvironment and the yield of winter wheat.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 14

Guo J, Zhang J, Zhang K

887. The relationship between the ethical attitudes and holistic competence levels of intensive care nurses: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Taşkıran N, Turk G.

888. How do housing prices affect innovation and entrepreneurship? Evidence from China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Fan J, Liu D, Hu M

889. Biomarkers related to gas embolism: Gas score, pathology, and gene expression in a gas bubble disease model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Velázquez-Wallraf A, Caballero MJ, Fernández A

890. Developing evidence for building sanitation justice: A multi methods approach to understanding public restroom quantity, quality, accessibility, and user experiences.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Swayne MRE, Calzo JP, Felner JK

891. Global phylogeographical distribution of Gloeoporus dichrous.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Cho Y, Seo CW, Jung PE

892. Validity and reliability of upper body push and pull tests to determine one-repetition maximum.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Sigvaldsen E, Loturco I, Larsen F

893. Generalization of contextual fear is sex-specifically affected by high salt intake.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Beaver JN, Weber BL, Ford MT

894. Emodin alleviates chronic constriction injury-induced neuropathic pain and inflammation via modulating PPAR-gamma pathway.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Badshah I, Qazi NG, Ali F

895. Regional unevenness in the construction of digital villages: A case study of China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Li Y, Wen X.

In regard to the comprehensive promotion of rural revitalization, the construction of digital villages is a crucial development. Because the construction of digital villages is considerably novel, the existing studies mainly focus on the theoretical aspects pertaining to the rational and practical robustness of digital villages, and with regard to regional unevenness, the number of studies that consider the current characteristics, absolute gaps, and impact mechanisms pertaining to the construction of digital villages is insufficient. Based on the regional unevenness that characterizes digital village construction, this study proposes a research framework for digital technology-enabled village construction, which integrates three major factors, namely technology, institutions, and human resources; thus, the comprehensive assessment pertaining to the level of digital village construction is enhanced. This study, which applies the aforementioned research framework, constructs an index system for evaluating the construction level of digital villages, and to reveal the characteristics pertaining to regional heterogeneity and the main influencing factors pertaining to the construction level of digital villages in China (study period; 2015-2020), it utilizes the Dagum Gini coefficient method and the spatial econometric model. Consequently, the researchers observe the following: First, the level of digital village construction in China exhibits a "W-shaped" recovery growth. Second, with respect to the regional level, the eastern region exhibits the highest level of digital village construction, followed by central and western regions; furthermore, we observe that the eastern and western regions account for the greatest intra-regional variation, and that with regard to the overall difference, the inter-regional gap represents the main causative factor. Finally, with regard to influencing factors, technology and innovation capabilities, occupational differentiation of farmers, economic development significantly contribute to the level of digital village construction, whereas fiscal autonomy exerts a significant inhibiting effect. In regard to the level of digital village construction, the research framework and results may provide a novel analytical framework for examining the main sources of regional unevenness, and it may also provide a reference for decision-making, which can influence the construction of digital villages in China as well as in other countries.

896. Are religious patients less afraid of surgery? A cross-sectional study on the relationship between dimensions of religiousness and surgical fear.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Karačić A, Brkić J, Theunissen M

INTRODUCTION: Surgical fear is common and has a negative impact on surgery and its outcome. Recent research has identified individual religiousness as an important factor among patients with associations to mental health, particularly anxiety. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine associations between religiousness and surgical fear in a representative sample of adult surgical patients in Croatia. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study among elective surgery patients at different departments of a single hospital. SETTING: University Hospital Sveti Duh, a tertiary health care facility in Croatia. MEASUREMENTS: Religiousness and surgical fear were the variables of interest and assessed through self-report instruments. The Croatian version of the Duke Religiosity Index questionnaire (DUREL) assessed organizational religious activity (ORA), non-organizational religious activity (NORA), and intrinsic religiousness (IR). The Croatian version of the Surgical Fear Questionnaire (SFQ) measured surgical fear and its subscales the fear of the short-term and long-term consequences of surgery. Additionally, sociodemographic characteristics and medical history were assessed. Analyses were carried out using descriptive and linear regression analyses. RESULTS: 178 subjects were included for data analysis. Univariate linear regression found two dimensions of religiousness (non-organizational religious activity, intrinsic religiousness) to be weak, but significant predictors of greater surgical fear (adj. R2 = 0.02 and 0.03 respectively). In the multiple linear regression model together with age, gender, education and type of surgery, all three dimensions of religiousness were found to be significant independent predictors of greater surgical fear. LIMITATIONS: The study was single-center and cross-sectional and did not assess patients' specific religious identity. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated significant positive associations between dimensions of religiousness and surgical fear, potentially suggesting that surgical patients experience increased religiousness to cope with heightened anxiety. Assessment and intervention to address patient religiousness is warranted in the context of surgical fear among religious patients, and the importance of religiousness in the context of surgical fear needs to be further addressed in research.

897. Influence of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes: A prospective study in the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Misgina KH, Levine L, Boezen HM

BACKGROUND: In low-income countries, where socioeconomic adversities and perinatal distress are common, adverse birth outcomes are significant public health problems. In these settings, perinatal distress, i.e., high symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or stress during pregnancy, may be linked with adverse birth outcomes. However, few prospective studies have investigated the impact of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes such as preterm birth (gestational age <37 weeks), low birth weight (<2.5 kg), and small for gestational age birth (birth weight below the 10th percentile for gestational age and sex). OBJECTIVES: Our main objective was to assess the influence of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes. Secondly, to investigate if perinatal distress is an independent risk factor or a mediator in the pathway between socioeconomic adversity and adverse birth outcomes. METHODS: In a prospective cohort study following 991 women from before 20 weeks of gestation until delivery in northern Ethiopia, we collected self-reported data on distress at a mean of 14.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 1.9) and 33.9 (SD = 1.1) weeks of gestation. Distress was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Perceived Stress Scale. To determine birth outcomes, gestational age was estimated from the last menstrual period, fundal palpation, and/or ultrasound, while birth weight was obtained from delivery records and measured within three days after birth for those delivered at home. Logistic regression and mediation analysis were employed to evaluate the impact of perinatal distress on adverse birth outcomes. RESULTS: Perinatal anxiety (OR [95% CI] 1.08 [1.02, 1.13]), depression (1.07 [1.03, 1.11]), stress (1.14 [1.07, 1.22]), and total distress (1.15 [1.07, 1.23]) were all associated with low birth weight, and small for gestational age birth but none did with preterm birth. Mediation analysis demonstrated that perinatal distress was a mediator in the pathway between socioeconomic adversity and adverse birth outcomes. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that perinatal distress was linked with adverse birth outcomes and acted as a mediator between socioeconomic adversity and these outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of screening women for distress and providing appropriate interventions, focusing on women experiencing socioeconomic adversity. Integrating mental health services into primary maternal care in low-income countries could be an effective approach to achieve this.

898. The role of scenic context on upright face preference in infancy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Kobayashi M, Kanazawa S, Yamaguchi MK.

899. Comparison of visual performance between bifocal and extended-depth-of-focus intraocular lenses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Tabuchi H, Tanabe H, Shirakami T

900. Identification and characteristics of wheat Lr orthologs in three rye inbred lines.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Krępski T, Olechowski M, Samborska-Skutnik I

901. Sex differences in pediatric caudal epidural anesthesia under sedation without primary airway instrumentation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Opfermann P, Schmid W, Obradovic M

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To identify sex differences associated with caudal epidurals, the most commonly used technique of pediatric regional anesthesia, based on individually validated data of ultrasound-guided blocks performed between 04/2014 and 12/2020. METHODS: Prospectively collected and individually validated data of a cohort of children aged between 0-15 years was analyzed in a retrospective observational study. We included pediatric surgeries involving a primary plan of caudal epidural anesthesia under sedation (without airway instrumentation) and a contingency plan of general anesthesia. Sex-specific rates were analyzed for overall failure of the primary anesthesia plan, for residual pain, for block-related technical complications and for critical respiratory events. We used Fisher´s exact tests and multivariable logistic regressions were used to evaluate sex-specific associations. RESULTS: Data from 487 girls and 2060 boys ≤15 years old (ASA status 1 to 4) were analyzed. The primary-anesthesia-plan failure rate was 5.5% (95%CI 3.8%-7.8%) (N = 27/487) among girls and 4.7% (95%CI 3.9%-5.7%) (N = 97/2060) among boys (p = 0.41). Residual pain was the main cause of failure, with rates of 4.5% (95%CI 2.9-6.6%) (N = 22/487) among girls and 3.0% (95%CI 2.3-3.8%) (N = 61/2060) among boys (p = 0.089). Block-related technical complications were seen at rates of 0.8% (95%CI 0.3%-1.9%) (N = 4/487) among girls vs 2.5% (95%CI 0.5-2.7%) (N = 51/2060) among boys and, hence, significantly more often among male patients (p = 0.023). Male sex was significantly associated with higher odds (adjusted OR: 3.18; 95% CI: 1.12-9; p = 0.029) for such technical complications regardless of age, ASA status, gestational week at birth or puncture attempts. Critical respiratory events occurred at a 1.7% (95%CI 1.2%-2.3%) rate (N = 35/2060) twice as high among boys as 0.8% (95%CI 0.3%-1.9%) (N = 4/487) among girls (p = 0.21). CONCLUSIONS: While the the primary-anesthesia-plan failure rate was equal for girls and boys, technical complications and respiratory events are more likely to occur in boys.

902. The co-management of HIV and chronic non-communicable diseases in the Dominican Republic: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Wallace DD, Then-Paulino A, Jiménez Paulino G

903. Using real-time ascertainment rate estimate from infection and hospitalization dataset for modeling the spread of infectious disease: COVID-19 case study in the Czech Republic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Přibylová L, Eclerová V, Májek O

904. Crowd-sourced observations of a polyphagous moth reveal evidence of allochronic speciation varying along a latitudinal gradient.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Black EN, Blair JD, van der Burg KRL

905. Awareness of and receptivity to FDA's point-of-sale tobacco public education campaign.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Dutra LM, Farrelly MC, Bradfield B

906. Improved technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution method for identifying key terrain in cyberspace asset layer.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Liu L, Zhou Y, Xu Q

Reinforcing weak cyberspace assets is an urgent requirement to defend national cybersecurity. Cyberspace key terrain (CKT) is a theory recently proposed for sensing cyberspace posture. Identifying CKT in the asset layer is essential for supporting cyberspace defense decisions. Existing methods ignore the influence of the multi-attribute correlation of cyberspace nodes and cyber attack mission (CAM) diversity, which restricts the recognition accuracy of CKT. To improve the accuracy of CKT identification and explore the relationship between CKT and CAM, we propose an improved cosine similarity technique for order of preference by similarity to the ideal solution (CosS-TOPSIS) method to model CKT and construct a CAM based on the MITRE adversarial tactics, techniques, and common knowledge (ATT&CK) framework to examine the influence of different weighted CAM on modeling CKT. Based on the vulnerability value calculation method of the cyber system in the common vulnerability scoring system version 3.1 (CVSS 3.1), we evaluated the effectiveness of CosS-TOPSIS in identifying CKT using three metrics: correlation coefficient, root mean square error, and mean absolute error. Our experiments showed that, in comparison with the TOPSIS method, the accuracy of the proposed method for identifying CKT improved by 8.9%, and the root mean square error reduced by 16%; simultaneously, CAM was proven to be an essential factor in identifying CKT. The feasibility and reliability of CosS-TOPSIS in identifying CKT and the close relationship between CAM and CKT identification were demonstrated experimentally. In our work, we utilized cosine similarity and FAHP to improve the baseline method. We also introduced three indicators to evaluate the method's reliability. Drawing from ATT&CK, we recommend CAM as a tool for sensing changes in the cyberspace environment and explore its relationship with CKT. Our work has great application potential for identifying cyberspace vulnerabilities, supporting cyberspace defense, and securing national cyberspace facilities.

907. Hospital length of stay: A cross-specialty analysis and Beta-geometric model.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Dehouche N, Viravan S, Santawat U

908. Informal ready-to-eat food vending governance in urban Nigeria: Formal and informal lenses guiding the practice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Adeosun KP, Oosterveer P, Greene M.

Informal ready-to-eat food vending is an important, cheap, convenient, accessible and readily available urban food supply sector that has become an increasingly important part of the diets of people in developing cities in Africa and throughout other contexts in the Global South. Over decades, despite challenges associated with health and hygiene, street foods have been informally accepted as part of the urban food supply system, particularly among the urban poor. Despite the importance of street foods to food security and employment needs in urban Nigeria and elsewhere, very little is known about the governance arrangements (whether formal or informal) revolving around their food provisioning practices. The paper explores governance arrangements that steer and shape food provisioning practices in Ibadan, Nigeria. Taking a social practice approach, the paper analyses the interconnections between governance and ready-to-eat food vending practices. It doing so, it draws on insights generated through a qualitative study incorporating in-depth interviews and participant observation methods to understand different governance arrangements revolving around food vending practices. The findings reveal that formal and informal governance structures are jointly steering and shaping practices of informal ready-to-eat food vending. They furthermore highlight the crucial role informal middlemen fulfill in informal food governance chains. These insights provide new avenues for thinking about food governance of urban food supply systems in terms of co-governance between formal and informal actors. They also provide empirical evidence that can aid policy application and implementation on urban food supply systems going forward. The paper concludes by discussing the potential of a co-governance informal food sector framework that recognizes and encompasses the formal-informal nature of the food sector. Such an approach recognizes and involves informal middlemen in the governance of informal ready-to-eat street food vending embedded in a larger framework of food system governance.

909. Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenamases in Escherichia coli isolated from humans and livestock in rural south-western Uganda.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Tuhamize B, Asiimwe BB, Kasaza K

BACKGROUND: The accumulation of resistance genes in Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains imposes limitations in the therapeutic options available for the treatment of infections caused by E.coli. Production of Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) by E. coli renders it resistant to broad-spectrum β-lactam antibiotics. Globally there is existing evidence of spread of carbapenem-resistant E. coli in both humans and livestock driven by acquisition of the several other carbapenemase genes. Overall, there is little information regarding the extent of KPC gene distribution in E. coli. We set out to determine the prevalence, and evaluate the phenotypic and genotypic patterns of KPC in E. coli isolated from humans and their livestock in rural south western Uganda. METHODS: A laboratory-based, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 96 human and 96 livestock isolates collected from agro-pastoralist communities in Mbarara district in south western Uganda. Phenotypic and molecular methods (PCR) were used for presence and identification of KPC genes in the E. coli isolates. A chi-square test of independence was used to evaluate the differences in resistant patterns between carbapenems and isolates. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of carbapenem resistance by disk diffusion susceptibility testing (DST) for both humans and livestock isolates were 41.7% (80/192). DST-based resistance was identical in both human and livestock isolates (41.7%). The prevalence of carbapenem resistance based on Modified Hodge Test (MHT) was 5% (2/40) and 10% (4/40) for humans and livestock isolates respectively. Both human and livestock isolates, 48.7% (95/192) had the KPC gene, higher than phenotypic expression; 41.7% (80/192). blaKPC gene prevalence was overall similar in human isolates (51%; 49/96) vs livestock isolates (47.9%; 46/96). Approximately, 19% (15/80) of the isolates were phenotypically resistant to carbapenems and over 70% (79/112) of the phenotypically sensitive strains harbored the blaKPC gene. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that both human and livestock isolates of E. coli in our setting carry the blaKPC gene with a high percentage of strains not actively expressing the blaKPC gene. The finding of fewer isolates carrying the KPC gene than those phenotypically resistant to carbapenems suggests that other mechanisms are playing a role in this phenomenon, calling for further researcher into this phenomenon.

910. Latrine utilization and associated factors among districts implementing and not-implementing community-led total sanitation and hygiene in East Wollega, Western Ethiopia: A comparative cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Shama AT, Terefa DR, Geta ET

INTRODUCTION: Discharge of excreta to the environment lead to surface and groundwater contamination and human exposure to disease-causing micro-organisms. There is limitation of evidences regarding the latrine utilization among community-led total sanitation and hygiene implemented and non-implemented districts of the East Wollega Zone. Hence, this study aimed to determine the magnitude and associated factors of latrine utilization among households in community-led total sanitation and hygiene implemented and non-implemented Districts in East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A Multi-stage sampling technique was applied to select the 461 households. Data were collected using interviews and observations guided by a pre-structured questionnaire. Data were entered using Epi Data and exported to SPSS software version 25 for data recording, cleaning, and statistical analysis. Bivariable logistic regression was run to identify the candidate variables at p-value <0.25. Variables that had associations with latrine utilization in the bi-variable analysis were entered together into multivariable logistic regression. An Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was calculated and P-value< 0.05 was used to declare a statistically significant association. RESULT: The overall prevalence of latrine utilization was found to be 52.7% (95%CI:48%, 57.3%). Religion (AOR = 0.149;95%CI:0.044,0.506), education (AOR = 3.861;95%CI:1.642,9.077), occupation, absence of children <5 years (AOR = 4.724;95%CI:2.313,9.648), toilet cleaning (AOR = 10.662;95%CI:5.571,20.403), frequency of latrine construction (AOR = 6.441;95%CI:2.203,18.826), maintenance need (AOR = 6.446; 95%CI:3.023,13.744), distance from health institution (AOR = 0.987; 95%CI:0.978, 0.996), distance from kebele office (AOR = 6.478; 95%CI:2.137,19.635), and latrine distance from dwelling (AOR = 11.656; 95%CI:2.108, 64.44) were the factors associated with latrine use. CONCLUSION: The latrine utilization in this study is low as compared to other studies. Religion, education, occupation, absence of children <5 years, toilet cleaning, frequency of latrine construction, maintenance need of the toilet, distance from health institution, distance from kebele, and latrine distance from dwelling are the associated factors of latrine utilization. Both households and health workers have to work together to improve latrine utilization and the safe disposal of children's feces.

911. Online classified adverts reflect the broader United Kingdom trade in turtles and tortoises rather than drive it.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Bielby J, Ferguson A, Rendle M

912. Machine learning-based identification and related features of depression in patients with diabetes mellitus based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Lee JY, Won D, Lee K.

913. Highly mismatch-tolerant homology testing by RecA could explain how homology length affects recombination.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Prentiss M, Wang D, Fu J

In E. coli, double strand breaks (DSBs) are resected and loaded with RecA protein. The genome is then rapidly searched for a sequence that is homologous to the DNA flanking the DSB. Mismatches in homologous partners are rare, suggesting that RecA should rapidly reject mismatched recombination products; however, this is not the case. Decades of work have shown that long lasting recombination products can include many mismatches. In this work, we show that in vitro RecA forms readily observable recombination products when 16% of the bases in the product are mismatched. We also consider various theoretical models of mismatch-tolerant homology testing. The models test homology by comparing the sequences of Ltest bases in two single-stranded DNAs (ssDNA) from the same genome. If the two sequences pass the homology test, the pairing between the two ssDNA becomes permanent. Stringency is the fraction of permanent pairings that join ssDNA from the same positions in the genome. We applied the models to both randomly generated genomes and bacterial genomes. For both randomly generated genomes and bacterial genomes, the models show that if no mismatches are accepted stringency is ∼ 99% when Ltest = 14 bp. For randomly generated genomes, stringency decreases with increasing mismatch tolerance, and stringency improves with increasing Ltest. In contrast, in bacterial genomes when Ltest ∼ 75 bp, stringency is ∼ 99% for both mismatch-intolerant and mismatch-tolerant homology testing. Furthermore, increasing Ltest does not improve stringency because most incorrect pairings join different copies of repeats. In sum, for bacterial genomes highly mismatch tolerant homology testing of 75 bp provides the same stringency as homology testing that rejects all mismatches and testing more than ∼75 base pairs is not useful. Interestingly, in vivo commitment to recombination typically requires homology testing of ∼ 75 bp, consistent with highly mismatch intolerant testing.

914. Feature interaction network based on hierarchical decoupled convolution for 3D medical image segmentation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Shen L, Zhang Y, Wang Q

915. Knowledge exchange in the implementation of National Environmental Programmes (NEPs) in China: A complex picture.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Kong ZH, Stringer LC, Paavola J.

916. Utilization of mobile health applications and determinant factors among health science students at Debre Markos University, northwest Ethiopia in 2022.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Hailiye Teferi G, Tadele MM, Tizazu G

BACKGROUND: High penetration of smartphones and ownership among the young generation increased the utilization of mobile health applications for health management among university students more than ever. Compared to other health service provision mechanisms mobile health service has higher advantages in promoting a healthy lifestyle since it is not limited to time and space. Even though there are numerous studies conducted in the area of mobile health utilization, this phenomenon is not well studied among university students in Ethiopia, Hence this study aims to determine the level of mobile health applications utilization among health science students. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was carried out at Debre Markos University from April 05 to June 25, 2022 among health science students. For this study, 423 students were recruited from health Science College using a systematic sampling method. The data was gathered using a self-administered questionnaire. Using SPSS version 26 software descriptive analysis, bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were performed. A P-value of .05 at a 95% confidence interval was considered statistically significant. The questionnaire's validity was determined by expert opinion, and by calculating its reliability using cronbach alpha (α = .78). RESULT: This study revealed that more than half 59% (144/244) of the study participants have installed and utilized 1-3 health-related apps. Among the students who have mobile health applications 38.6% utilize mobile health application several times a day while only 2.1% utilized rarely. Usage history shows that 40% of the study participants utilized the applications for a year, while 15.4% of the students utilized them for more than 2 years. Easiness of applications (AOR = 4.8, 95%CI: [2.1-11.2]), skill AOR = 4.2, 95%CI: [3.8-12]) and trust (AOR = 2.8, 95%CI: [1.6-4.8]) were among the factors that were associated with mobile health applications utilization. Students were asked about the barriers that limit the use mobile health applications and self-reported barriers includes Lack of knowledge and awareness of application benefits, and Lack of adequate time to use applications. CONCLUSION: The study shows that mobile health applications utilization is moderate relative to previous studies. Mobile health application developers for the young generation should consider healthy lifestyle related applications like fitness and weight loss apps.

917. Effects of improved on-farm crop storage on perceived stress and perceived coping in pregnant women-Evidence from a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Kenya.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Eichenauer H, Huss M, Brander M

BACKGROUND: Food insecurity can be harmful to pregnant women, as pregnancy is a challenging period with increased maternal nutritional requirements to ensure optimal fetal development and health of the mother. Whether food insecurity negatively affects maternal health may depend on how stressful pregnant women perceive this food insecurity to be and how strongly they believe they can cope with it. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), pregnant women from smallholder households suffer from food insecurity due to post-harvest losses (PHL), i.e., loss of crops because of inadequate storage. An agricultural intervention that improves crop storage has been shown to reduce food insecurity. However, it remains to be determined whether this agricultural intervention (treatment) has an additional positive effect on pregnant women's perceived stress levels and coping abilities. This study examines whether pregnant women from treatment households experience lower perceived stress levels and higher perceived coping abilities compared to pregnant women from control housholds. METHODS AND FINDINGS: In a randomized controlled trial (RCT), short message service (SMS)-based mobile phone surveys were conducted to assess the causal effect of a food security intervention (improved on-farm storage of maize) on perceived stress and coping in pregnant women from smallholder households. Pregnant women were identified through these monthly surveys by asking whether someone in their household was currently pregnant. The significant results revealed that pregnant women from treatment households experienced more perceived stress but better perceived coping abilities compared to pregnant women from control households. Uncertainty due to lack of experience, this might have contributed to the higher perceived stress, as the women could not easily judge the benefits and risks of the new storage technology. However, the technology itself is a tangible resource which might have empowered the pregnant women to counteract the effects of PHL and thus food insecurity. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that pregnant women from treatment households had higher perceived coping abilities but experienced more perceived stress. More research is needed on how this technology impacts maternal mental health in a broader sense and whether biological mechanisms, such as epigenetics, may underlie this association.

918. Standardized tissue sampling guidelines for histopathological and molecular analyses of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in ecotoxicological studies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Fiedler S, Schrader H, Theobalt N

919. Understanding the quality of life of people living with HIV in rural and urban areas in Indonesia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Fauk NK, Gesesew HA, Mwanri L

920. Habits and perceptions regarding open science by researchers from Spanish institutions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Ollé C, López-Borrull A, Melero R

The article describes the results of the online survey on open science (OS) carried out on researchers affiliated with universities and Spanish research centres and focused on open access to scientific publications, the publication process, the management of research data and the review of open articles. The main objective was to identify the perception and habits of researchers with regard to practices closely linked to open science and the scientific value added is that offers an in-depth picture of researchers as one of the main actors to whom this transformation and implementation of open science will fall. It focuses on the different aspects of OS: open access, open data, publication process and open review in order to identify habits and perceptions. This is to make possible an implementation of the OS movement. The survey was carried out among researchers who had published in the years 2020-2021, according to data obtained from WoS. It was emailed to a total of 8,188 researchers and obtained a total of 666 responses, of which 554 were complete, the rest being forms with some questions unanswered. The main results showed that open access still requires the diffusion of practices and services provided by the institution, as well as training (library or equivalent service) and institutional support from the competent authorities (vice rectors or equivalent) in specific aspects such as data management. In the case of data, around 50% of respondents stated they had stored data in a repository, and of all the options, the most frequently given was that of an institutional repository, followed by a discipline repository. Among the main reasons for doing this, we found transparency, visibility of data and the ability to validate results. For those who stated they had never stored data, the most frequent reasons for not having done so were privacy and confidentiality, the lack of a mandated data policy or a lack of knowledge of how to do it. In terms of open peer review, participants mentioned a certain reticence to the opening of evaluations due to potential conflicts of interest that may arise or because lower-quality content might be accepted in order to avoid conflicts. In addition, the hierarchical structure of senior researcher versus junior researcher might affect reviews. The main conclusions indicate a need for persuasion of OA to take place; APCs are an economic barrier rather than the main criterion for journal selection; OPR practices may seem innovative and emerging; scientific and evaluation policies seem to have a clear effect on the behaviour of researchers; researchers state that they share research data more for reasons of persuasion than out of obligation. Researchers do question the pathways or difficulties that may arise on a day-to-day basis and seem aware that we are undergoing change, where academic evaluation or policies related to open science, its implementation and habits among researchers may change. In this sense, more and better support is needed on the part of institutions and faculty support services.

921. Mental health in autistic adults: A rapid review of prevalence of psychiatric disorders and umbrella review of the effectiveness of interventions within a neurodiversity informed perspective.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Curnow E, Rutherford M, Maciver D

BACKGROUND: Autistic adults have high risk of mental ill-health and some available interventions have been associated with increased psychiatric diagnoses. Understanding prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses is important to inform the development of individualised treatment and support for autistic adults which have been identified as a research priority by the autistic community. Interventions require to be evaluated both in terms of effectiveness and regarding their acceptability to the autistic community. OBJECTIVE: This rapid review identified the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in autistic adults, then systematic reviews of interventions aimed at supporting autistic adults were examined. A rapid review of prevalence studies was completed concurrently with an umbrella review of interventions. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, including protocol registration (PROSPERO#CRD42021283570). DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: English language; published 2011-2022; primary studies describing prevalence of psychiatric conditions in autistic adults; or systematic reviews evaluating interventions for autistic adults. APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS: Bias was assessed using the Prevalence Critical Appraisal Instrument and AMSTAR2. Prevalence was grouped according to psychiatric diagnosis. Interventions were grouped into pharmacological, employment, psychological or mixed therapies. Strength of evidence for interventions was assessed using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Autistic researchers within the team supported interpretation. RESULTS: Twenty prevalence studies were identified. Many included small sample sizes or failed to compare their sample group with the general population reducing validity. Prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses was variable with prevalence of any psychiatric diagnosis ranging from 15.4% to 79%. Heterogeneity was associated with age, diagnosis method, sampling methods, and country. Thirty-two systematic reviews of interventions were identified. Four reviews were high quality, four were moderate, five were low and nineteen critically low, indicating bias. Following synthesis, no intervention was rated as 'evidence based.' Acceptability of interventions to autistic adults and priorities of autistic adults were often not considered. CONCLUSIONS: There is some understanding of the scope of mental ill-health in autism, but interventions are not tailored to the needs of autistic adults, not evidence based, and may focus on promoting neurotypical behaviours rather than the priorities of autistic people.

922. Has the COVID-19 pandemic changed the utilization and provision of essential health care services from 2019 to 2020 in the primary health care network in Lebanon? Results from a nationwide representative cross-sectional survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Yaacoub S, Zmeter C, Abou Abbas L

923. Benefits and harms of gastric suction or lavage at birth for gastrointestinal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Phattraprayoon N, Ungtrakul T, Na Takuathung M.

The benefits of routine gastric suctioning or lavage in neonates remain uncertain, despite the common practice worldwide. To investigate the potential advantages and harms, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effects of these procedures in healthy or meconium-stained neonates at birth. We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to February 9, 2023. We included only RCTs assessing the outcomes of gastric suction or lavage in neonates at birth. We calculated risk ratio (RR) and weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model. The primary outcomes were gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting, retching, feeding intolerance, and secondary aspiration. The secondary outcomes included time to initiation of breastfeeding and potential adverse procedure-related events. Twelve RCTs with a total of 4,122 neonates were analyzed. All the studies compared neonates who received gastric suction or lavage with those who received usual care. Gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly reduced in neonates receiving gastric suction or gastric lavage compared with the control group (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.63-0.89). Gastric lavage was beneficial for infants with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (RR 0.71; 95% CI, 0.60-0.84), while gastric suction had no significant benefit in reducing gastrointestinal symptoms in infants without meconium-stained amniotic fluid (RR 0.91; 95% CI, 0.61-1.37). Our findings suggest that gastric suction or lavage may reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in neonates; however, these procedures may only benefit infants born with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Vigorous newborns without meconium-stained amniotic fluid may not benefit from these procedures. Furthermore, gastric suction may lead to adverse outcomes such as apnea and bradycardia. Registration: This study was registered in the PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews in health and social care (CRD42023247780).

924. Development of a neural network model to predict the presence of fentanyl in community drug samples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Ti L, Grant CJ, Tobias S

INTRODUCTION: Increasingly, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy is being used as a harm reduction tool to provide people who use drugs real-time information about the contents of their substances. However, FTIR spectroscopy has been shown to have a high detection limit for fentanyl and interpretation of results by a technician can be subjective. This poses concern, given that some synthetic opioids can produce serious toxicity at sub-detectable levels. The objective of this study was to develop a neural network model to identify fentanyl and related analogues more accurately in drug samples compared to traditional analysis by technicians. METHODS: Data were drawn from samples analyzed point-of-care using combination FTIR spectroscopy and fentanyl immunoassay strips in British Columbia between August 2018 and January 2021. We developed neural network models to predict the presence of fentanyl based on FTIR data. The final model was validated against the results from immunoassay strips. Prediction performance was assessed using F1 score, accuracy, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and was compared to results obtained from analysis by technicians. RESULTS: A total of 12,684 samples were included. The neural network model outperformed results from those analyzed by technicians, with an F1 score of 96.4% and an accuracy of 96.4%, compared to 78.4% and 82.4% with a technician, respectively. The AUROC of the model was 99.0%. Fentanyl positive samples correctly detected by the model but not by the technician were typically those with low fentanyl concentrations (median: 2.3% quantity by weight; quartile 1-3: 0.0%-4.6%). DISCUSSION: Neural network models can accurately predict the presence of fentanyl and related analogues using FTIR data, including samples with low fentanyl concentrations. Integrating this tool within drug checking services utilizing FTIR spectroscopy has the potential to improve decision making to reduce the risk of overdose and other negative health outcomes.

925. Honey bees (Apis mellifera) modify plant-pollinator network structure, but do not alter wild species' interactions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Worthy SH, Acorn JH, Frost CM.

926. An enigma of Malaysia's low-income young adults: Mediation of financial behaviour on financial well-being and locus of control cohesion.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Sabri MF, Wahab R, Mahdzan NS

Young adults face many significant challenges to their financial well-being. The rising cost of living and unstable economies have impacted how they consume, manage, and save monthly income to maintain their standard of living. Hence, exploring the financial well-being of young adults in Malaysia is an intriguing and relevant research topic that deserves examination from multiple perspectives. This study aims to investigate how these three factors, namely financial knowledge and locus of control with financial behaviour as a mediator, are correlated with the financial well-being of low-income young adults in Malaysia. A total of 520 young adults from North, Central, South, East zones in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia were randomly chosen using a multi-stage sampling technique as the sample of this study. Data in this study were obtained using a set of questionnaire-based survey through cross-sectional study and then scrutinized using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package of Social Science). This study discovered that financial knowledge, internal and external locus of control, and financial behaviour were significantly correlated with the financial well-being of low-income young adults. The findings also demonstrate that financial behaviour mediates the correlation between financial knowledge, both internal and external locus of control, and financial well-being. This study is one of the very few important studies that explore the link between financial literacy, locus of control, financial behaviour, and financial well-being among low-income young adults. This study also found an interesting and noteworthy fact regarding the impact of the minimum monthly wage policy on highly educated young adults in Malaysia, which is worth discussing and needs to be alerted to the policymakers and leaders of the country. Therefore, the findings of this study can be utilized as a starting point by policymakers, government organizations, and non-governmental organizations to create new initiatives aimed at raising financial well-being among the younger generation.

927. On closing the inopportune gap with consistency transformation and iterative refinement.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

João M Jr, Sena AC, Rebello VEF.

928. Exploring the barriers and facilitators to the uptake of smoking cessation services for people in treatment or recovery from problematic drug or alcohol use: A qualitative systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Iyahen EO, Omoruyi OO, Rowa-Dewar N

BACKGROUND: Smoking prevalence and the associated poor health and mortality is significantly higher among people with/recovering from problematic drug or alcohol (PDA) use in comparison with the general population. Evidence from existing systematic reviews shows smoking cessation enhances rather than compromises long-term abstinence from alcohol or drug use. However, these systematic reviews lack important contextual detail around the reasons why uptake of, and successful engagement with existing stop smoking services remains low for people in treatment or recovery from PDA use. This systematic review explores qualitative data on the barriers and facilitators to the uptake of smoking cessation services for people in treatment or recovery from PDA use. This key objective addresses the limited inclusion of qualitative studies in previous systematic reviews on this issue. METHODS: A qualitative systematic review was conducted with searches across four electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL]). All studies that had a qualitative component about free smoking cessation/reduction programmes for people in treatment or recovery from PDA use were included. Studies that examined electronic smoking or services that required a fee were excluded. Study quality was assessed using National Institute for Health and Care Excellence checklist. Qualitative synthesis involved inductive thematic analysis. (PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42022298521). RESULTS: 8809 potentially eligible articles were identified, 72 full texts were screened and ten articles were included for full review. Barriers to uptake and engagement with existing stop smoking services centered on three key themes: perception of public health importance, programme structure, and intervention elements. Facilitators included supportive treatment environment and optimization of support/staff resources for smoking cessation service delivery. CONCLUSION: Recommendations included influencing a change in the way people perceive the importance of smoking cessation activities during PDA use treatment or recovery. There was also some emphasis on the need to create the right environment for sustained adherence to treatment or recovery plans, and deliver the interventions within the health system as comprehensive care. The limited qualitative evidence on community-based and outpatient services highlights a research gap.

929. Feasibility study of Internet video-based speech-language activity for outpatients with primary progressive aphasia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Higashi S, Koshibe Y, Miyazaki T

930. Can static Rorschach stimuli perceived as in motion affect corticospinal excitability?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Andò A, Garbarini F, Giromini L

931. Effects of personal and interpersonal factors on changes of food choices and physical activity among college students.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Cao J, Wang K, Shi Y

BACKGROUND: Health behaviors developed in the college years tend to persist in adulthood. However, distinct changing patterns of food choices and physical activity (PA) and their predictors are still less clear among college students. The current study sought to explore changes of food choices and PA, as well as the effects of personal and interpersonal factors. METHOD: Two-wave longitudinal data was collected from a sample of 431 Chinese college students (Mean baseline age = 19.15 ± 0.61 years; 45.7% male). A validated self-reported food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the frequency of food choices. The Chinese revised version of physical activity rating scale was used to assess physical activity. Latent profile analysis, latent transition analysis, and multinomial logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Two profiles of food choices, i.e., Avoiding staples (5.1% at Time 1) and Varied diet (94.9% at Time 1), were identified at both timepoints. 90.9% remained the same profiles over time, 63.6% participants in the Avoiding staples profile shifted to the Varied diet profile, and only 6.3% of those in the Varied diet profile shifted to the Avoiding staples profile. Negative body shape-related belief was related to the translation from the Varied diet profile to the Avoiding staples profile. Further, four profiles of PA, i.e., Inactives (51.0% at Time 1), Low activies (26.0% at Time 1), Moderate activies (15.3% at Time 1), and Activies (7.7% at Time 1), were identified at both timepoints. 50.8% remained the same profiles over time, 38.6% Inactivies shifted to the other profiles, and 48.5% Activies shifted to the other profiles over time. Participants with higher self-efficacy showed an increase in PA over time, and those with lower self-efficacy and lower peer support showed a decrease in PA over time. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, most of college students remained the same food choices profiles, and body shape-related belief contributed to changes in food choices profiles. About half of college students experienced changes in PA, and the predictors of such changes were peer support and self-efficacy. The findings extend the understanding of the personal and interpersonal predictors of health behaviors among college students from a dynamic perspective.

932. Video-based interventions to improve self-assessment accuracy among physicians: A systematic review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Pattni C, Scaffidi M, Li J

PURPOSE: Self-assessment of a physician's performance in both procedure and non-procedural activities can be used to identify their deficiencies to allow for appropriate corrective measures. Physicians are inaccurate in their self-assessments, which may compromise opportunities for self- development. To improve this accuracy, video-based interventions of physicians watching their own performance, an experts' performance or both, have been proposed to inform their self-assessment. We conducted a systematic review of the effectiveness of video-based interventions targeting improved self-assessment accuracy among physicians. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The authors performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, EBM reviews, and Scopus databases from inception to August 23, 2022, using combinations of terms for "self-assessment", "video-recording", and "physician". Eligible studies were empirical investigations assessing the effect of video-based interventions on physicians' self-assessment accuracy with a comparison of self-assessment accuracy pre- and post- video intervention. We defined self-assessment accuracy as a "direct comparison between an external evaluator and self-assessment that was quantified using formal statistical analysis". Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and evaluated quality of evidence. A narrative synthesis was conducted, as variable outcomes precluded a meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 2,376 papers were initially retrieved. Of these, 22 papers were selected for full-text review; a final 9 studies met inclusion criteria for data extraction. Across studies, 240 participants from 5 specialties were represented. Video-based interventions included self-video review (8/9), benchmark video review (3/9), and/or a combination of both types (1/9). Five out of nine studies reported that participants had inaccurate self-assessment at baseline. After the intervention, 5 of 9 studies found a statistically significant improvement in self-assessment accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, current data suggests video-based interventions can improve self-assessment accuracy. Benchmark video review may enable physicians to improve self-assessment accuracy, especially for those with limited experience performing a particular clinical skill. In contrast, self-video review may be able to provide improvement in self-assessment accuracy for more experience physicians. Future research should use standardized methods of comparison for self-assessment accuracy, such as the Bland-Altman analysis, to facilitate meta-analytic summation.

933. Delayed treatment with ceftriaxone reverses the enhanced sensitivity of TBI mice to chemically-induced seizures.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Romariz SAA, Main BS, Harvey AC

934. The difficulty of aligning intrinsically disordered protein sequences as assessed by conservation and phylogeny.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Riley AC, Ashlock DA, Graether SP.

935. Food safety knowledge, attitude, and practice of street food vendors and associated factors in low-and middle-income countries: A Systematic review and Meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Desye B, Tesfaye AH, Daba C

Access to safe food is considered a basic human right, but food-borne disease presents a significant public health concern globally. The problem is exacerbated in low- and middle-income countries. Due to the rise in urbanization and the popularity of street food in low- and middle-income countries, understanding the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) of street food vendors is crucial to ensuring food safety. Therefore, this review was aimed to estimate the pooled proportion of KAP of street food vendors toward food safety and its associated factors in low- and middle-income countries. A comprehensive search of published studies before January 30, 2023, was identified using databases like PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, HINARI, Science Direct, and African Journals Online, as well as other sources. The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines were followed. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel, and analysis was performed using STATA 14/SE software. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's quality appraisal tool. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled proportion of KAP of street food vendors toward food safety and associated factors. The funnel plot and Egger's regression test were used to assess publication bias, and I2 test statistics were used to assess heterogeneity. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis was also conducted. In this study, fourteen eligible studies with a total of 2,989 study populations were included. The pooled proportions of good knowledge 62% (95% CI: 51-73), positive attitude 66% (95% CI: 47-86), and good practice 51% (95% CI: 36-65) toward food safety were found among street food vendors. Being of secondary school education (OR = 5.95, 95% CI: 4.05-7.85), having training in food safety (OR = 4.64, 95% CI: 2.62-6.67), having a higher monthly income (OR = 2.98, 95% CI: 1.06-4.9), and having good knowledge of food handling (OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.17-3.16) were found to be associated factors in the food safety practice of street food vendors. Based on the findings of this study, there was a significant gap in the KAP of street food vendors toward food safety. Therefore, the provision of training and strengthening health education about food safety are invaluable strategies for improving food safety.

936. Quantification of the capacity of vibrio fischeri to establish symbiosis with Euprymna scolopes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Donnelly AR, Giacobe EJ, Cook RA

937. Multifaceted Empathy Test (MET): Validity evidence for the Brazilian population concerning the computer-based (face-to-face) and online versions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Fernandes Vieira de Lima F, Rossi G, Dos Santos RG

938. Impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor on the China-Europe and China-Middle East trading route selection.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Alam KM, Xuemei L, Baig S

939. Capturing COVID-19 spread and interplay with multi-hop contact tracing intervention.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Kim J, Bidokhti SS, Sarkar S.

940. Evaluation of multiple sclerosis severity using a new OCT tool.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Viladés E, Cordón B, Pérez-Velilla J

941. Learning curve for flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation for anesthesiology residents: A cumulative sum analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Cai X, Yue M, Liu X

BACKGROUND: Endotracheal intubation with a flexible bronchoscope is a well-recognized airway management technique that anesthesiologists must master. Skill acquisition and knowledge must reach an appropriate level before trainees perform independent practice on patients. There are a paucity of evidence-based outcome measures of trainee competence in performing flexible bronchoscopy. The objectives of this study were to 1) construct a learning curve for flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation for anesthesiology residents using the CUSUM method and 2) determine the number of procedures required to achieve proficiency. METHODS: This study included 12 first-year anesthesiology residents with no previous experience with flexible bronchoscopic intubation. Trainees attended theoretical and simulation training and performed flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation in adult patients with normal airways under general anesthesia. Number of intubation attempts, intubation success rate, time to intubation, and incidence of dental and mucosal injuries were recorded. The cumulative sum (CUSUM) method was used to evaluate the learning curve of flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation. RESULTS: Trainees performed flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation on 364 patients. First-attempt intubation success occurred in 317 (87.1%) patients. Second-attempt intubation success occurred in 23 (6.3%) patients. Overall, the flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation success rate was 93.4% (range, 85.3% to 100%). The mean number of orotracheal intubation procedures per trainee was 31 ± 5 (range, 23 to 40). All trainees crossed the lower decision boundary (H0) after 15.1 ± 5.6 procedures (range, 8 to 25 procedures). There was a significant decrease in median intubation time [39s (IQR: 30, 50) vs. 76s (IQR: 54, 119)] (P < 0.001) after crossing the lower decision boundary (H0) compared to before. There were no dental, mucosa, arytenoid or vocal cord trauma events associated with intubation. CONCLUSIONS: Learning curves constructed with CUSUM analysis showed that all trainees (anesthesiologist residents) included in this study achieved competence (intubation success rates ≥ 80%) in flexible bronchoscope-guided orotracheal intubation. Trainees needed to perform 15 (range, 8 to 25) procedures to achieve proficiency. There was wide variability between trainees. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Register, ChiCTR 2000032166.

942. Structure of puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase and polyglutamine binding.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Madabushi S, Chow KM, Song ES

943. Perceived antimicrobial dispensing practices in medicine outlets in Ghana: A maximum difference experiment design.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Nyarko E, Akoto FM, Doku-Amponsah K.

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobials are consumed among patients globally, but in developing and middle-income countries, these drugs can be obtained without a prescription from pharmacies and licensed drug stores due to inadequate regulation in the pharmaceutical sector. This study aimed to assess antimicrobial dispensing practices in medicine sales outlets (i.e., pharmacies and licensed drug stores) to provide quantitative evidence for policy discussions to enhance patient safety and care quality in Ghana's pharmaceutical industry. METHOD: The data for this study were obtained from a cross-sectional survey conducted in the Greater Accra region between July and August 2022. The survey was conducted through interviewer-administered questionnaires, and 200 staff members from medicine sales outlets were randomly selected using a two-stage cluster and random sampling technique. The maximum difference experiment model, rooted in random utility theory, was used to analyze their antimicrobial dispensing practices. RESULT: We found that medicine sales outlet staffs were highly concerned about following the drug act and not dispensing antimicrobials without a prescription, and usually refer a patient to get a prescription from a doctor if the patient has complications (like high fever, generalized malaise, fatigue as symptoms, sinusitis). Stronger concerns were also observed for medicine outlet staff not dispensing antimicrobials without a prescription if the patient is pediatric or geriatric with a severe infection. They also evaluated patients and dispensed antimicrobials based on symptoms, not their age or gender. However, they tended not to dispense antibiotics if the patient had a mild fever and requested it without a prescription. CONCLUSION: Our results provide insight into the need for a national surveillance system for monitoring antimicrobial prescribing and dispensing practices at medicine sales outlets. Therefore, the selection of antimicrobials for treating infectious diseases may be informed by evidence-based antimicrobial prescribing and dispensing surveillance data and will help policymakers to know the pattern of commonly consumed antimicrobials in the medicine sales outlets.

944. Prevalence of occupational respiratory symptoms and associated factors among industry workers in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Daba C, Debela SA, Atamo A

BACKGROUND: Occupational respiratory diseases are major global public health problems, particularly for industry workers. Several studies have investigated occupational respiratory symptoms in various parts of Ethiopia. The findings have been inconsistent and inconclusive, and there is no nationally representative data on the subject. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and factors associated with occupational respiratory symptoms among industry workers in Ethiopia (2010-2022). METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis framework Guidelines, search was conducted on several international databases including PubMed, CINAHL, African Journals Online, Hinari, Global Health, and Google scholar. The extracted data was analyzed using STATA 14. Random effect model was used to estimate the effect size. Egger regression test and I2 statistics were used to determine potential publication bias and heterogeneity, respectively among the reviewed articles. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included a total of 15 studies with 5,135 participants, revealing a pooled prevalence of 51.6% (95% CI: 43.6-59.6) for occupational respiratory symptoms among industry workers in Ethiopia. The absence of personal protective equipment (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: [1.17-3.32]), lack of occupational health and safety training (OR = 3.04, 95% CI: [2.36-3.93]), previous dust exposure (OR = 3.17, 95% CI: [2.3-4.37]), poor working environment (OR = 2.4, 95% CI: [1.7-3.2]), work experience greater than five years (OR = 4.04, 95% CI: [1.61-10.16]), smoking (OR = 6.91, 95% CI: [2.94-16.2]), and previous respiratory illness (OR = 4.25, 95% CI: [2.44-7.42]) were found to associate with the symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of occupational respiratory symptoms among industry workers in Ethiopia underscores the urgent need for effective interventions. The provision of personal protective equipment and improvement of working environments by the government, industry owners, and other stakeholders are crucial in reducing occupational respiratory symptoms. Additionally, prioritizing occupational health and safety training for industry workers can help prevent and mitigate the impact of occupational respiratory diseases. REGISTRATION: This systematic review has been registered in the International Prospective Registry of Systematic Review (PROSPERO) with a specific registration number CRD42022383745.

945. Exposure to the non-phthalate plasticizer di-heptyl succinate is less disruptive to C57bl/6N mouse recovery from a myocardial infarction than DEHP, TOTM or related di-octyl succinate.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Schwendt A, Chammas JB, Maric M

Phthalate plasticizers are incorporated into plastics to make them soft and malleable, but are known to leach out of the final product into their surroundings with potential detrimental effects to human and ecological health. The replacement of widely-used phthalate plasticizers, such as di-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), that are of known toxicity, by the commercially-available alternative Tris(2-ethylhexyl) tri-mellitate (TOTM) is increasing. Additionally, several newly designed "green" plasticizers, including di-heptyl succinate (DHPS) and di-octyl succinate (DOS) have been identified as potential replacements. However, the impact of plasticizer exposure from medical devices on patient recovery is unknown and, moreover, the safety of TOTM, DHPS, and DOS is not well established in the context of patient recovery. To study the direct effect of clinically based chemical exposures, we exposed C57bl/6 N male and female mice to DEHP, TOTM, DOS, and DHPS during recovery from cardiac surgery and assessed survival, cardiac structure and function, immune cell infiltration into the cardiac wound and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Male, but not female, mice treated in vivo with DEHP and TOTM had greater cardiac dilation, reduced cardiac function, increased infiltration of neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages and increased expression of inflammasome receptors and effectors, thereby suggesting impaired recovery in exposed mice. In contrast, no impact was detected in female mice and male mice exposed to DOS and DHPS. To examine the direct effects in cells involved in wound healing, we treated human THP-1 macrophages with the plasticizers in vitro and found DEHP induced greater NLRP3 expression and activation. These results suggest that replacing current plasticizers with non-phthalate-based plasticizers may improve patient recovery, especially in the male population. In our assessment, DHPS is a promising possibility for a non-toxic biocompatible plasticizer.

946. Development and validation of Medical Device Key Evidence Tool ('MeDKET'): An evidence-based framework to explain success in selected European and US companies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Manetti S, Lettieri E, Ni MZ.

947. Dynamic parameter identification and adaptive control with trajectory scaling for robot-environment interaction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Song K, Hu H.

948. Constitutive ALS3 expression in Candida albicans enhances adhesion and biofilm formation of efg1, but not cph1 mutant strains.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Schena NC, Baker KM, Stark AA

949. A combined monthly precipitation prediction method based on CEEMD and improved LSTM.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Jiang X.

950. Building a community-based open harmonised reference data repository for global crop mapping.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Boogaard H, Pratihast AK, Laso Bayas JC

Reference data is key to produce reliable crop type and cropland maps. Although research projects, national and international programs as well as local initiatives constantly gather crop related reference data, finding, collecting, and harmonizing data from different sources is a challenging task. Furthermore, ethical, legal, and consent-related restrictions associated with data sharing represent a common dilemma faced by international research projects. We address these dilemmas by building a community-based, open, harmonised reference data repository at global extent, ready for model training or product validation. Our repository contains data from different sources such as the Group on Earth Observations Global Agricultural Monitoring Initiative (GEOGLAM) Joint Experiment for Crop Assessment and Monitoring (JECAM) sites, the Radiant MLHub, the Future Harvest (CGIAR) centers, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Food Security and Agriculture Program (NASA Harvest), the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) citizen science platforms (LACO-Wiki and Geo-Wiki), as well as from individual project contributions. Data of 2016 onwards were collected, harmonised, and annotated. The data sets spatial, temporal, and thematic quality were assessed applying rules developed in this research. Currently, the repository holds around 75 million harmonised observations with standardized metadata of which a large share is available to the public. The repository, funded by ESA through the WorldCereal project, can be used for either the calibration of image classification deep learning algorithms or the validation of Earth Observation generated products, such as global cropland extent and maize and wheat maps. We recommend continuing and institutionalizing this reference data initiative e.g. through GEOGLAM, and encouraging the community to publish land cover and crop type data following the open science and open data principles.

951. The PiNe box: Development and validation of an electronic device to time-lock multimodal responses to sensory stimuli in hospitalised infants.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Worley A, Pillay K, Cobo MM

952. Married women decision making autonomy on health care utilization in high fertility sub-Saharan African countries: A multilevel analysis of recent Demographic and Health Survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Negash WD, Kefale GT, Belachew TB

BACKGROUND: Women's decision-making autonomy has a potential impact on the scale-up of health care utilization. In high fertility countries, evidence regarding women's decision-making autonomy on their health care utilization and its associated factors is limited and inconclusive. Hence, it is important to investigate women decision-making autonomy on their health care utilization and associated factors in high fertility countries in sub-Saharan Africa. METHODS: The data source for this study was obtained from recent Demographic and Health Surveys that were comprised of a weighted sample of 178875 reproductive age women. A multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression model was fitted. The odds ratios, along with the 95% confidence interval were generated to identify individual and community-level factors associated with women's autonomy in health care decision-making. A p-value less than 0.05 was declared as statistical significance. RESULTS: In this study, 42% (95% CI: 41.7, 42.3) of women were able to exercise their reproductive autonomy. The highest (74.8%) and the lowest (19.74%) magnitude of women autonomy was found in Angola and Mali, respectively. In multilevel analysis; age of women 25-34 years, 35 and above (AOR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.39), and (AOR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.75, 1.90), women's primary and secondary educational level (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.20, 1.31), and (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.32, 1.54), husband primary and secondary educational level (AOR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.29), and (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.27), women who had work (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.59, 1.74) female household heads (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.37, 1.51), media exposure (AOR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.18), health insurance coverage (AOR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.36), urban residence (AOR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.19), community education (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI: 2.07, 2.85) and low community poverty level (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.08, 1.49) were predictor variables. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: Although every woman has the right to make her own health care decisions, this study showed that almost 58% of them had no role in making decisions about their health care utilization. Thus, each country Government should support women's decision making autonomy regarding their healthcare utilization through mass media and extensive behavioral education.

953. Utilization of antiretroviral therapy services and associated factors among adolescents living with HIV in northern Uganda: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Odongo I, Arim B, Ayer P

BACKGROUND: Suboptimal utilization of antiretroviral therapy (ART) services remains a problem among adolescents in low- and middle-income countries, which has a negative impact on their response to treatment and increases the risk of developing resistance. Optimal use is essential to enhancing treatment efficacy. We investigated the optimal use of ART service and predictors among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in northern Uganda. METHODS: We used a cross-sectional study design to collect quantitative data from 293 ALHIV at three health facilities in Lira municipality, northern Uganda. We used an interviewer-administered questionnaire and data abstraction form. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23 software. Descriptive analysis and logistic regressions were performed to determine the relationship between the predictor and outcome variables. Statistical significance was determined at P-value<0.05 and the adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used. RESULTS: The level of utilization of ART services was suboptimal among 27.6% (81/293) of the participants, and only 63.1% (185/293) were virally suppressed. Of the participants who were optimally utilizing ART services, the majority 86.8% (184/212) were virally suppressed. Age 10-14 years (aOR = 3.34), the presence of both parents (aOR = 1.85), parental and peer reminders (aOR = 2.91) and (aOR = 0.49) respectively, and being on ART for five years or less were the characteristics related with optimal utilization of ART services. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Not all ALHIV used ART services to their full potential. However, factors such as participants' age, the presence of both parents, reminders from parents and peers, and being on ART for some time were all related to the optimal use of ART services. There is a need for developing strategies to increase family and peer support with a focus on older adolescents if the 95-95-95 goal is to be achieved in this age group.

954. The relative importance of friendship to happiness increases with age.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Song I, Kwon JW, Jeon SM.

955. Methionine metabolism and endocrine function of the pituitary gland in patients with suprasellar germinoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Lee H, Lee JW, Cho HW

956. Multidisciplinary analyses on the 11th-12th century bronze doors of San Marco, Venice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Mödlinger M, Bernabei M, Bontadi J

957. Systemic immune-inflammation index as a predictor of prognosis after carotid artery stenting compared with C-reactive protein.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Morikawa S, Okumura K, Inoue N

BACKGROUND: Immune-inflammatory processes are highly associated with the progression of atherosclerosis. The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a potential predictor for clinical outcomes in patients with stroke and ischemic heart disease. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether SII can accurately predict the short- and long-term prognoses in patients who underwent carotid artery stenting (CAS) compared to that with C-reactive protein (CRP). METHODS: This study was a single-center retrospective investigation. Overall, 129 patients who underwent CAS were categorized into tertiles based on their SII levels. We primarily investigated the long-term major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and secondarily the in-hospital and long-term stroke incidence, as well as all-cause death. RESULTS: The in-hospital stroke rate tended to increase with a rise in SII (P = 0.13). Over the 5-year follow-up period, the Kaplan-Meier overall incidence of MACCE was 9.3%, 16.3%, and 39.5% in the lowest to highest tertiles, respectively (log-rank trend test, P<0.001). The rates of stroke and MACCE during the long-term follow-up were significantly higher with increasing SII. Cox regression analysis showed that the highest tertile of SII (>647) was a predictor of the incidence of long-term stroke (hazard ratio (HR), 21.3; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.41-188; P = 0.006) and MACCE (HR, 3.98; 95% CI, 1.80-8.81; P<0.001). However, after adjusting for both SII and CRP, only SII remained a significant independent predictor, whereas CRP became less relevant. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of long-term MACCE showed that the area under the curve (AUC) for SII (AUC, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.60-0.84; P<0.001) was greater than that of CRP (AUC, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.51-0.77; P = 0.040). CONCLUSION: SII was shown to be an independent predictor of long-term prognosis in patients who underwent CAS and was suggested to be superior to CRP as an inflammatory prognosis predictor.

958. Trends in road accidents on Brazil's highways: Evidence of persistence using fractional integration.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Wanke P, Gil-Alana LA, Tan Y.

959. Characterization of cysteine proteases from poultry red mite, tropical fowl mite, and northern fowl mite to assess the feasibility of developing a broadly efficacious vaccine against multiple mite species.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Win SY, Murata S, Fujisawa S

960. Mixed-methods education of mechanical ventilation for residents in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic: Preliminary interventional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Takeda K, Kasai H, Tajima H

INTRODUCTION: In the current era of the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 epidemic, the need for respiratory care, including mechanical ventilatory (MV) management, has increased. However, there are no well-developed educational strategies for training medical personnel dealing with respiratory care in MV management. METHODS: A novel mixed-methods hands-on seminar for learning MV management was conducted for the residents at Chiba University Hospital in March 2022. The seminar lasted approximately 2 hours. The learning goal for the residents was to develop skills and knowledge in performing basic respiratory care, including MV, during an outbreak of a respiratory infection. The seminar with a flipped classroom consisted of e-learning, including modules on respiratory physiology and MV management, hands-on training with a low-fidelity simulator (a lung simulator), and hands-on training with a high-fidelity simulator (a human patient simulator). The effectiveness of the seminar was evaluated using closed questions (scored on a five-point Likert scale: 1 [minimum] to 5 [maximum]) and multiple-choice questions (maximum score: 6) at the pre- and post-seminar evaluations. RESULTS: Fourteen residents at Chiba University Hospital participated in the program. The questionnaire responses revealed that the participants' motivation for learning about MV was relatively high in the pre-seminar period (seven participants [50%] selected level 5 [very strong]), and it increased in the post-seminar period (all participants selected level 5) (p = 0.016). The responses to the multiple-choice questions revealed that the participants did not have enough knowledge to operate a mechanical ventilator, while the total score significantly improved from the pre- to post-seminar period (pre-seminar: 3.3 ± 1.1, post-seminar: 4.6 ± 1.0, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: The seminar implemented in this study helped increase the residents' motivation to learn about respiratory care and improved knowledge of MV management in a short time. In particular, the flipped classroom may promote the efficiency of education on MV management.

961. Deficient AMPK activity contributes to hyperexcitability in peripheral nociceptive sensory neurons and thermal hyperalgesia in lupus mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Viatchenko-Karpinski V, Kong L, Weng HR.

962. Defining an optimal cut-off point for reticulocyte hemoglobin as a marker for iron deficiency anemia: An ROC analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Alzu'bi M, Bawa'neh H, Alshorman A

963. Exposure levels of animal allergens, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan on a university campus of veterinary medicine.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Zahradnik E, Sander I, Lotz A

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine the allergen, endotoxin and β-(1,3)-glucan concentrations at various areas on a university campus of veterinary medicine. METHODS: Dust samples were collected four times a year for three years using electrostatic dust collectors (EDC) at 25 different locations on a campus of veterinary medicine and in laboratories of inorganic chemistry as a control area representing animal-free environment. Major animal allergens from dog, cat, horse, cattle and mouse, domestic mite (DM) allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan were measured using enzyme immunoassays and endotoxin using the limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. Seasonal, annual and local influences on exposure levels were analyzed using Bayesian mixed models. RESULTS: With the exception of mouse allergens, all other determinants were found in almost all locations on the campus and in the control area, but in up to 10.000-fold variable concentrations. By far the highest levels of feline, canine, equine and bovine allergens were detected in buildings where the respective species were examined. The highest levels of mouse and DM allergens, β-(1,3)-glucan and endotoxin occurred together and were associated with locations where large animals were present. In buildings without animals, allergen levels were considerably lower but still elevated at several locations compared to the control area, especially for dog and horse allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan. Significant seasonal effects were observed for dog, cat, horse and DM allergens, and β-(1,3)-glucan. Variations between years were less apparent than between seasons (except for β-(1,3)-glucan). CONCLUSIONS: The strongest influencing factor on the concentration of mammalian allergens was the presence of the corresponding animal at the collection site. Seasonal influence on allergen concentrations was observed, while the overall exposure remained constant over the years. At locations with horses, elevated levels of mite allergens, endotoxin, and β-(1,3)-glucan can be expected, probably due to passive transfer from stable environment.

964. Change in the faunal composition of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) along a heterogeneous landscape gradient in the Brazilian Amazon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Almeida JF, Belchior HCM, Batista FAJC

965. Neural network-based method to stratify people at risk for developing diabetic foot: A support system for health professionals.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Ferreira ACBH, Ferreira DD, Barbosa BHG

966. Accurate prediction of gaseous isotopes Xe and Kr concentrations from the burnup of nuclear fuel using simple regression algorithm.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Nafee SS, Al-Ramady AM, Mohamed NM

967. Genomic and phenotypic characterization of Pseudomonas sp. GOM7, a novel marine bacterial species with antimicrobial activity against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Romero-González LE, Rojas-Vargas J, Muriel-Millán LF

968. Interaction and integration among behaviors of adult Drosophila in nature.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Silva-López J, Godoy P, Jara L

969. Electrochemotherapy vs radiotherapy in the treatment of primary cutaneous malignancies or cutaneous metastases from primary solid organ malignancies: A systematic review and narrative synthesis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

McMillan AT, McElroy L, O'Toole L

BACKGROUND: Electrochemotherapy has gained international traction and commendation in national guidelines as an effective tool in the management of cutaneous malignancies not amenable to surgical resection. Despite this, no level 5 evidence exists comparing it to radiotherapy in the treatment of cutaneous malignancies. This systematic review aimed to examine the literature directly and indirectly comparing electrochemotherapy and radiotherapy in the treatment of primary cutaneous malignancies or cutaneous metastases from primary solid organ malignancies. MATERIALS & METHODS: The protocol for this review was registered on the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with the protocol ID CRD42021285415. Searches of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were undertaken from database inception to 28 December 2021. Studies in humans comparing treatment with electrochemotherapy to radiotherapy and reporting tumour response with a minimum four week follow-up were eligible. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Results are provided as a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Two case series with a total of 92 patients were identified as relevant to this study. Both case series examined patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. One case series examined elderly patients with predominantly head/neck lesions. The other examined younger patients with predominantly limb lesions who had cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma directly attributable to a rare skin condition. CONCLUSION: There is little literature presenting comparative data for electrochemotherapy and radiotherapy in the treatment of primary cutaneous malignancies or cutaneous metastases. Included studies were marred by serious risk of bias particularly due to confounding. The inherent bias and heterogeneity of the included studies precluded synthesis of a consolidated comparison of clinical outcomes between the two therapies. Further research is required in this domain in the form of clinical trials and observational studies to inform guidelines for electrochemotherapy treatment.

970. Should I stay or should I go? Three-year-olds' reactions to appropriate motives to interrupt a joint activity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Bonalumi F, Siposova B, Christensen W

971. A unique single nucleotide polymorphism in Agouti Signalling Protein (ASIP) gene changes coat colour of Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) to dark black.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Sooriyabandara MGC, Bandaranayake AU, Hathurusinghe HABM

972. A novel co-culture model for investigation of the effects of LPS-induced macrophage-derived cytokines on brain endothelial cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Yang J, Li Y, Bhalla A

973. The effects of caffeine and d-amphetamine on spatial span task in healthy participants.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

Kassim FM, Lim JHM, Slawik SV

Studies that examined the effect of amphetamine or caffeine on spatial working memory (SWM) and verbal working memory (VWM) have used various tasks. However, there are no studies that have used spatial span tasks (SSTs) to assess the SWM effect of amphetamine and caffeine, although some studies have used digit span tasks (DST) to assess VWM. Previous reports also showed that increasing dopamine increases psychosis-like experiences (PLE, or schizotypy) scores which are in turn negatively associated with WM performance in people with high schizotypy and people with schizophrenia. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the influence of d-amphetamine (0.45 mg/kg, PO), a dopamine releasing stimulant, on SST, DST, and on PLE in healthy volunteers. In a separate study, we examined the effect of caffeine, a nonspecific adenosine receptor antagonist with stimulant properties, on similar tasks. METHODS: Healthy participants (N = 40) took part in two randomized, double-blind, counter-balanced placebo-controlled cross-over pilot studies: The first group (N = 20) with d-amphetamine (0.45 mg/kg, PO) and the second group (N = 20) with caffeine (200 mg, PO). Spatial span and digit span were examined under four delay conditions (0, 2, 4, 8 s). PLE were assessed using several scales measuring various aspects of psychosis and schizotypy. RESULTS: We failed to find an effect of d-amphetamine or caffeine on SWM or VWM, relative to placebo. However, d-amphetamine increased a composite score of psychosis-like experiences (p = 0.0005), specifically: Scores on Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Perceptual Aberrations Scale, and Magical Ideation Scale were increased following d-amphetamine. The degree of change in PLE following d-amphetamine negatively and significantly correlated with changes in SWM, mainly at the longest delay condition of 8 s (r = -0.58, p = 0.006). CONCLUSION: The present results showed that moderate-high dose of d-amphetamine and moderate dose of caffeine do not directly affect performances on DST or SST. However, the results indicate that d-amphetamine indirectly influences SWM, through its effect on psychosis-like experiences. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CT-2018-CTN-02561 (Therapeutic Goods Administration Clinical Trial Registry) and ACTRN12618001292268 (The Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry) for caffeine study, and ACTRN12608000610336 for d-amphetamine study.

974. The management of cognitive labour in same-gender couples.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 13

McLean C, Musolino C, Rose A

975. Beyond athletic development: The effects of parkour-based versus conventional neuromuscular exercises in pre-adolescent basketball players.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Williams MD, Hammond A, Moran J.

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a parkour-based warm-up to a conventional neuromuscular training (NMT) warm-up on the athletic capabilities of youth basketball players. This was examined through two arms: In Investigation 1, the aims were to measure the effects of the two warm-ups on physical measures of athletic performance in prepubescent basketball players. Using post-intervention semi-structured interviews, Investigation 2 aimed to gain insights from the players in relation to the perceived benefits of the two warm-ups. Pre-adolescent children were recruited from two youth level basketball teams. Participants from one club were randomly assigned to either a conventional NMT warm-up group or a parkour warm-up group, while a control group was formed of participants from the second club. Participants of both experimental groups were required to complete a 15-minute warm-up once per week before their regular basketball practice across 8-weeks. For both groups, the coach adopted the same pedagogical approach, utilising a guided discovery strategy. Pre-post test measures of overhead squat performance, countermovement jump, and 10-metre sprint speed were recorded in all three groups. Additionally, pre-post measures were recorded for a timed parkour-based obstacle course for the two experimental groups. No significant between-group differences were found between pre- and post-test measures. However, analysis using Cohen's d effect sizes revealed improvements in both intervention groups versus the control. Moreover, between group effect size differences were observed between the two experimental groups. Following the intervention, participants from both experimental groups were also invited to take part in a post-intervention semi-structured interview to discuss their experiences. The thematic analysis of these semi-structured interviews revealed three higher order themes: Enjoyment; Physical literacy; and Docility; of which the two former themes appear to align to constructs relating to the wider concept of physical literacy. In summary, warm-ups designed to improve athleticism can include less structured and more diverse movement skills than are typical of conventional NMT warm-ups. Specifically, we provide evidence that advocates for warm ups that include parkour-related activities alongside conventional NMT exercises to preserve physical fitness qualities and to simultaneously evoke a sense of enjoyment, fun, and purpose. The benefit of such activities may extend beyond athletic development and, more broadly, contribute to the development of physical literacy.

976. Better late than never: Optimising the proteomic analysis of field-collected octopus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Hua QQH, Young C, Pukala TL

Proteomics, the temporal study of proteins expressed by an organism, is a powerful technique that can reveal how organisms respond to biological perturbations, such as disease and environmental stress. Yet, the use of proteomics for addressing ecological questions has been limited, partly due to inadequate protocols for the sampling and preparation of animal tissues from the field. Although RNAlater is an ideal alternative to freezing for tissue preservation in transcriptomics studies, its suitability for the field could be more broadly examined. Moreover, existing protocols require samples to be preserved immediately to maintain protein integrity, yet the effects of delays in preservation on proteomic analyses have not been thoroughly tested. Hence, we optimised a proteomic workflow for wild-caught samples. First, we conducted a preliminary in-lab test using SDS-PAGE analysis on aquaria-reared Octopus berrima confirming that RNAlater can effectively preserve proteins up to 6 h after incubation, supporting its use in the field. Subsequently, we collected arm tips from wild-caught Octopus berrima and preserved them in homemade RNAlater immediately, 3 h, and 6 h after euthanasia. Processed tissue samples were analysed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to ascertain protein differences between time delay in tissue preservation, as well as the influence of sex, tissue type, and tissue homogenisation methods. Over 3500 proteins were identified from all tissues, with bioinformatic analysis revealing protein abundances were largely consistent regardless of sample treatment. However, nearly 10% additional proteins were detected from tissues homogenised with metal beads compared to liquid nitrogen methods, indicating the beads were more efficient at extracting proteins. Our optimised workflow demonstrates that sampling non-model organisms from remote field sites is achievable and can facilitate extensive proteomic coverage without compromising protein integrity.

977. Molecular diagnosis of patients with hepatitis A virus infection using amplicon-based nanopore sequencing.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Lee GY, Park K, Lee YS

978. Pregnancy-induced differential expression of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza a viral entry factors in the lower respiratory tract.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Giri T, Panda S, Palanisamy A.

979. Overweight/Obesity-related microstructural alterations of the fimbria-fornix in the ABCD study: The role of aerobic physical activity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Ma J, McGlade EC, Huber RS

Childhood overweight/obesity has been associated with negative consequences related to brain function and may involve alterations in white matter pathways important for cognitive and emotional processing. Aerobic physical activity is a promising lifestyle factor that could restore white matter alterations. However, little is known about either regional white matter alterations in children with overweight/obesity or the effects of aerobic physical activity targeting the obesity-related brain alterations in children. Using a large-scale cross-sectional population-based dataset of US children aged 9 to 10 years (n = 8019), this study explored the associations between overweight/obesity and microstructure of limbic white matter tracts, and examined whether aerobic physical activity may reduce the overweight/obesity-related white matter alterations in children. The primary outcome measure was restriction spectrum imaging (RSI)-derived white matter microstructural integrity measures. The number of days in a week that children engaged in aerobic physical activity for at least 60 minutes per day was assessed. We found that females with overweight/obesity had lower measures of integrity of the fimbria-fornix, a major limbic-hippocampal white matter tract, than their lean peers, while this difference was not significant in males. We also found a positive relationship between the number of days of aerobic physical activity completed in a week and integrity measures of the fimbria-fornix in females with overweight/obesity. Our results provide cross-sectional evidence of sex-specific microstructural alteration in the fimbria-fornix in children with overweight/obesity and suggest that aerobic physical activity may play a role in reducing this alteration. Future work should examine the causal direction of the relationship between childhood overweight/obesity and brain alterations and evaluate potential interventions to validate the effects of aerobic physical activity on this relationship.

980. Evidence and clinical relevance of maternal-fetal cardiac coupling: A scoping review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Nichting TJ, Bester M, Joshi R

BACKGROUND: Researchers have long suspected a mutual interaction between maternal and fetal heart rhythms, referred to as maternal-fetal cardiac coupling (MFCC). While several studies have been published on this phenomenon, they vary in terms of methodologies, populations assessed, and definitions of coupling. Moreover, a clear discussion of the potential clinical implications is often lacking. Subsequently, we perform a scoping review to map the current state of the research in this field and, by doing so, form a foundation for future clinically oriented research on this topic. METHODS: A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. Filters were only set for language (English, Dutch, and German literature were included) and not for year of publication. After screening for the title and the abstract, a full-text evaluation of eligibility followed. All studies on MFCC were included which described coupling between heart rate measurements in both the mother and fetus, regardless of the coupling method used, gestational age, or the maternal or fetal health condition. RESULTS: 23 studies remained after a systematic evaluation of 6,672 studies. Of these, 21 studies found at least occasional instances of MFCC. Methods used to capture MFCC are synchrograms and corresponding phase coherence indices, cross-correlation, joint symbolic dynamics, transfer entropy, bivariate phase rectified signal averaging, and deep coherence. Physiological pathways regulating MFCC are suggested to exist either via the autonomic nervous system or due to the vibroacoustic effect, though neither of these suggested pathways has been verified. The strength and direction of MFCC are found to change with gestational age and with the rate of maternal breathing, while also being further altered in fetuses with cardiac abnormalities and during labor. CONCLUSION: From the synthesis of the available literature on MFCC presented in this scoping review, it seems evident that MFCC does indeed exist and may have clinical relevance in tracking fetal well-being and development during pregnancy.

981. A large scale randomized controlled trial on herding in peer-review discussions.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Stelmakh I, Rastogi C, Shah NB

982. Knowledge and motivations of training in peer review: An international cross-sectional survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Willis JV, Ramos J, Cobey KD

BACKGROUND: Despite having a crucial role in scholarly publishing, peer reviewers do not typically require any training. The purpose of this study was to conduct an international survey on the current perceptions and motivations of researchers regarding peer review training. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted of biomedical researchers. A total of 2000 corresponding authors from 100 randomly selected medical journals were invited via email. Quantitative items were reported using frequencies and percentages or means and SE, as appropriate. A thematic content analysis was conducted for qualitative items in which two researchers independently assigned codes to the responses for each written-text question, and subsequently grouped the codes into themes. A descriptive definition of each category was then created and unique themes-as well as the number and frequency of codes within each theme-were reported. RESULTS: A total of 186 participants completed the survey of which 14 were excluded. The majority of participants indicated they were men (n = 97 of 170, 57.1%), independent researchers (n = 108 of 172, 62.8%), and primarily affiliated with an academic organization (n = 103 of 170, 62.8%). A total of 144 of 171 participants (84.2%) indicated they had never received formal training in peer review. Most participants (n = 128, 75.7%) agreed-of which 41 (32.0%) agreed strongly-that peer reviewers should receive formal training in peer review prior to acting as a peer reviewer. The most preferred training formats were online courses, online lectures, and online modules. Most respondents (n = 111 of 147, 75.5%) stated that difficulty finding and/or accessing training was a barrier to completing training in peer review. CONCLUSION: Despite being desired, most biomedical researchers have not received formal training in peer review and indicated that training was difficult to access or not available.

983. The synergistic impact of Spirulina and selenium nanoparticles mitigates the adverse effects of heat stress on the physiology of rabbits bucks.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

El-Ratel IT, Elbasuny ME, El-Nagar HA

Heat stress has a detrimental effect on animal fertility, particularly testicular functions, including reduced sperm output and quality, which causes an economic loss in the production of rabbits. The present trial investigated the efficacy of dietary Spirulina (SP) (Arthrospira platensis), selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), and their combination (SP-SeNPs) on semen quality, haemato-biochemical, oxidative stress, immunity, and sperm quality of heat-stressed (HS) rabbit bucks. Sixty mature bucks (APRI line) were distributed into 6 groups of ten replicates under controlled conditions. Bucks in the 1st group (control-NC) were kept under normal conditions (11-22°C; 40-45% RH% = relative humidity), while the 2nd group (control-HS) was kept under heat stress conditions (32±0.50°C; 60-66% RH %). The control groups were fed a commercial pelleted diet and the other four heat-stressed groups were fed a commercial pelleted diet with 1 g SP, 25 mg SeNPs, 1 g SP+25 mg SeNPs, and 1 g SP+50 mg SeNPs per kg diet, respectively. The dietary inclusion of SP, SeNPs, and their combinations significantly increased hemoglobin, platelets, total serum protein, high-density lipoproteins, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and seminal plasma testosterone while decreased triglycerides, total cholesterol, urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde compared with the control-HS. Red blood cells, packed cell volume, serum albumin, and testosterone significantly increased, while SeNPs, SP+SeNPs25, and SP+SeNPs50 significantly decreased low-density lipoproteins, aspartate, and alanine amino transferees. Total antioxidant capacity substantially increased in serum and seminal plasma, while seminal plasma malondialdehyde decreased in 25 or 50 mg of SeNPs+SP/kg groups. All supplements significantly improved libido, sperm livability, concentration, intact acrosome, membrane integrity, total output in fresh semen, and sperm quality in cryopreserved semen. SP-SeNPs50 had higher synergistic effect than SP-SeNPs25 on most different variables studied. In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of SP plus SeNPs50 has a synergistic effect and is considered a suitable dietary supplement for improving reproductive efficiency, health, oxidative stress, and immunity of bucks in the breeding strategy under hot climates.

984. The rate of species extinction in declining or fragmented ecological communities.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Halley JM, Pimm SL.

985. YouTube as a source of information on ectopic pregnancy: A qualitative and quantitative analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Bulle C, Lallemant M, Rigori C

986. Estimated energetic demands of thermoregulation during ancient canoe passages from Tahiti to Hawaii and New Zealand, a simulation analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Montenegro A, Niclou A, Anderson A

987. Trichomonas vaginalis infection and risk of cervical neoplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Fazlollahpour-Naghibi A, Bagheri K, Almukhtar M

988. Evaluating the role of MEN1 gene expression and its clinical significance in breast cancer patients.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Massey S, Khan MA, Rab SO

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease which involves number of molecular factors that are critically involved in proliferation of breast cancer cells. MEN1 gene that is traditionally known for its germline mutations in neuroendocrine tumors is associated with high risk of developing breast cancer in females with MEN1 syndrome. However, the paradoxical role of MEN1 is reported in sporadic breast cancer cases. The previous studies indicate the functional significance of MEN1 in regulating breast cells proliferation but its relevance in development and progression of breast cancer is still not known. Our study targets to find the role of MEN1 gene aberration and its clinical significance in breast cancer. METHODS: Breast tumor and adjacent normal tissue of 142 sporadic breast cancer patients were collected at the time of surgery. The expression analysis of MEN1 mRNA and protein was done through RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Further to find the genetic and epigenetic alterations, automated sequencing and MS-PCR was performed respectively. Correlation between our findings and clinical parameters was determined using appropriate statistical tests. RESULTS: MEN1 expression was found to be significantly increased in the breast tumor tissue with its predominant nuclear localization. The elevated expression of MEN1 mRNA (63.38% cases) and protein (60.56% cases) exhibited a significant association with ER status of the patients. Most of the cases had unmethylated (53.52%) MEN1 promoter region, which can be a key factor responsible for dysregulated expression of MEN1 in breast cancer cases. Our findings also revealed the significant association of MEN1 mRNA overexpression with Age and lymph node status of the patients. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate upregulated expression of MEN1 in sporadic breast cancer patients and it could be critically associated with development and advancement of the disease.

989. Leisure-time physical activity and gastric cancer risk: A pooled study within the Stomach cancer Pooling (StoP) Project.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Mariani M, Pastorino R, Pires Marafon D

BACKGROUND: Although physical activity (PA) has been recognized as a favourable factor in the prevention of various diseases, including certain forms of cancer, the relationship between PA and gastric cancer (GC) is not yet fully understood. This study aims to provide data from a pooled analysis of case-control studies within the Stomach cancer Pooling (StoP) Project to estimate the association between leisure-time PA and the occurrence of GC. METHODS: Six case-control studies from StoP project collected data on leisure-time PA, for a total of 2,343 cases and 8,614 controls. Subjects were classified into three leisure-time PA categories, either none/low, intermediate or high, based on study-specific tertiles. We used a two-stage approach. Firstly, we applied multivariable logistic regression models to obtain study-specific odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) then, we used a random-effect models to obtain pooled effect estimates. We performed stratified analyses according to demographic, lifestyle and clinical covariates. RESULTS: The meta-analysis showed ORs of GC with no significant differences between intermediate vs low and high vs low PA level (OR 1.05 [95%CI 0.76-1.45]; OR 1.23 [95%CI 0.78-1.94], respectively). GC risk estimates did not strongly differ across strata of selected covariates except for age ≤ 55 years old (high vs low level: OR 0.72 [95%CI 0.55-0.94]) and for control population-based studies (high vs low level: OR 0.79 [95%CI 0.68-0.93]). CONCLUSIONS: No association was found between leisure time PA and GC, apart from a slight suggestion of decreased risk below age 55 and in control population-based studies. These results may reflect specific characteristics of GC at a younger age, or the presence of a cohort effect mediating and interacting with socioeconomic determinants of GC The different distribution of PA levels among hospitalized controls could have led to an underestimated effect of PA on GC risk.

990. Evaluation of a remote monitoring service for patients with COVID-19 discharged from University College London Hospital.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Crilly D, Shakeshaft P, Marks M

991. The evolution of scientific literature as metastable knowledge states.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Koneru SD, McCauley DR, Smith MC

992. The role of social support and social identification on challenge and threat cognitive appraisals, perceived stress, and life satisfaction in workplace employees.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Gillman JC, Turner MJ, Slater MJ.

993. Exercise improves the outcome of anticancer treatment with ultrasound-hyperthermia-enhanced nanochemotherapy and autophagy inhibitor.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Chiang CF, Wang ZZ, Hsu YH

994. Increases in income-support payments reduce the demand for charity: A difference-in-difference analysis of charitable-assistance data from Australia over the COVID-19 pandemic.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Ablaza C, Perales F, Parsell C

995. Prioritization of livestock diseases by pastoralists in Oloitoktok Sub County, Kajiado County, Kenya.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Mburu CM, Bukachi S, Majiwa H

INTRODUCTION: Livestock diseases are a big challenge for the livelihood of pastoralists in sub-Saharan Africa because they reduce livestock productivity and increase mortality. Based on the literature available there is limited understanding on how pastoralists prioritize these diseases in the context of their culture, ecosystems and livelihoods. A study was conducted to provide insights on lay prioritization of animal diseases by pastoralists in Kenya. METHODOLOGY: A qualitative study was undertaken between March and July 2021. Thirty in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with community members to explore community attitudes on livestock diseases prioritization. Male and female livestock keepers were purposively selected and interviewed and they were all long-term residents of the area. Fourteen key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with professionals from different key sectors to provide detailed stakeholder perspectives on livestock diseases. The interviews were analyzed thematically using the QSR Nvivo software to identify the emerging themes related to the study objectives. RESULTS: The pastoralists prioritized livestock diseases based on effect on their economic wellbeing, cultural values and utilization of ecosystem services. There were gender variabilities in how diseases were prioritized among the pastoralists. Men cited high priority diseases as foot and mouth disease and contagious bovine pleuropneumonia due to their regular occurrence and effect on livelihood. Notably, women regarded coenuruses as very important because it affected sheep and goats with a high mortality rate and lumpy skin disease because it rendered the meat from the carcasses inedible. Malignant catarrhal fever and trypanosomiasis were noted as some of the common diseases in the livestock-wildlife interface but not cited as priority diseases. Challenges related to disease control in pastoralist contexts exist including limited access to livestock treatment services, inadequate information on disease impact and complex environmental factors. CONCLUSION: This study sheds light on the body of knowledge in Kenya regarding livestock diseases and their prioritization by livestock keepers. This could aid in the development of a common disease control framework and prioritization at the local level which would take into consideration the dynamic socio-cultural, ecological, livelihood and economic contexts of the communities.

996. Associations between significant head injury in male juveniles in prison in Scotland UK and cognitive function, disability and crime: A cross sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

McMillan TM, McVean J, Aslam H

BACKGROUND: Although the prevalence of head injury is estimated to be high in juveniles in prison, the extent of persisting disability is unknown and relationships with offending uncertain. This limited understanding makes it difficult to develop effective management strategies and interventions to improve health or reduce recidivism. This study investigates effects of significant head injury (SHI) on cognitive function, disability and offending in juvenile prisoners, and considers relationships with common comorbidities. METHODS: This cross-sectional study recruited male juvenile prisoners in Scotland from Her Majesty's Young Offenders Institute (HMYOI) Polmont (detaining approximately 305 of 310 male juveniles in prison in Scotland). To be included juveniles had to be 16 years or older, fluent in English, able to participate in assessment, provide informed consent and not have a severe acute disorder of cognition or communication. Head injury, cognition, disability, history of abuse, mental health and problematic substance use were assessed by interview and questionnaire. RESULTS: We recruited 103 (34%) of 305 juvenile males in HMYOI Polmont. The sample was demographically representative of juvenile males in prisons for young offenders in Scotland. SHI was found in 82/103 (80%) and head injury repeated over long periods of time in 69/82 (85%). Disability was associated with SHI in 11/82 (13%) and was significantly associated with mental health problems, particularly anxiety. Group differences on cognitive tests were not found. However the SHI group reported poorer behavioural control on the Dysexecutive Questionnaire and were more often reported for incidents in prison than those without SHI. Characteristics of offending, including violence, did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although SHI is highly prevalent in juvenile prisoners, associated disability was relatively uncommon. There was no evidence for differences in cognitive test performance or offending in juveniles with and without SHI. However, signs of poorer behavioural control and greater psychological distress in juveniles with SHI suggest that they may be at greater risk of recidivism and of potentially becoming lifelong offenders. This implies a need for remedial programmes for juvenile prisoners to take account of persisting effects of SHI on mental health and self-control and education and to improve their understanding of the effects of SHI reduce the likelihood of cumulative effects from further SHI.

997. Estimating heterogeneous effects of internet use on environmental knowledge: Taking population heterogeneity into consideration.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Cheng X.

998. Four modifiable factors that mediate the effect of educational time on major depressive disorder risk: A network Mendelian randomization study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Wan B, Wu Y, Ma N

999. Seven naturally variant loci serve as genetic modifiers of Lamc2jeb induced non-Herlitz junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa in mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Sproule TJ, Philip VM, Chaudhry NA

1000. A new trigonometric modification of the Weibull distribution: Control chart and applications in quality control.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Alomair MA, Ahmad Z, Rao GS

1001. Standard RUTF vs. locally-made RUSF for acutely malnourished children: A quasi-experimental comparison of the impact on growth and compliance in a rural community of Pakistan.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Sarfraz A, Ahmed S, Muhammad S

1002. Interfering with the ERC1-LL5β interaction disrupts plasma membrane-Associated platforms and affects tumor cell motility.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Ribolla LM, Sala K, Tonoli D

Cell migration requires a complex array of molecular events to promote protrusion at the front of motile cells. The scaffold protein LL5β interacts with the scaffold ERC1, and recruits it at plasma membrane-associated platforms that form at the front of migrating tumor cells. LL5 and ERC1 proteins support protrusion during migration as shown by the finding that depletion of either endogenous protein impairs tumor cell motility and invasion. In this study we have tested the hypothesis that interfering with the interaction between LL5β and ERC1 may be used to interfere with the function of the endogenous proteins to inhibit tumor cell migration. For this, we identified ERC1(270-370) and LL5β(381-510) as minimal fragments required for the direct interaction between the two proteins. The biochemical characterization demonstrated that the specific regions of the two proteins, including predicted intrinsically disordered regions, are implicated in a reversible, high affinity direct heterotypic interaction. NMR spectroscopy further confirmed the disordered nature of the two fragments and also support the occurrence of interaction between them. We tested if the LL5β protein fragment interferes with the formation of the complex between the two full-length proteins. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments showed that LL5β(381-510) hampers the formation of the complex in cells. Moreover, expression of either fragment is able to specifically delocalize endogenous ERC1 from the edge of migrating MDA-MB-231 tumor cells. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments show that the ERC1-binding fragment of LL5β interacts with endogenous ERC1 and interferes with the binding of endogenous ERC1 to full length LL5β. Expression of LL5β(381-510) affects tumor cell motility with a reduction in the density of invadopodia and inhibits transwell invasion. These results provide a proof of principle that interfering with heterotypic intermolecular interactions between components of plasma membrane-associated platforms forming at the front of tumor cells may represent a new approach to inhibit cell invasion.

1003. Corneal confocal microscopy demonstrates sensory nerve loss in children with autism spectrum disorder.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Khan A, Kamal M, Alhothi A

1004. Profile of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of organically and conventionally grown black-grain barley genotypes treated with biostimulant.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Nowak R, Szczepanek M, Kobus-Cisowska J

1005. The yield of procalcitonin and Interleukin-6 in predicting intraamniotic infection in the presence of intrapartum fever: A pilot study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Ehrlich Z, Magen S, Alexandroni H

1006. Interventions towards barriers to the practice of physical activity in adolescence: A systematic review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Terra LF, Costa WPD, Silva RMF

INTRODUCTION: Lack of regular physical activity is recognized as a global public health issue. Three out of every four adolescents do not adhere to physical activity recommendations. Thus, this systematic review will evaluate interventions employed to minimize barriers to physical activity among adolescents. Herein, we present the study protocol. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first systematic review to assess the interventions implemented to minimize barriers to the practice of physical activity among adolescents. A systematic understanding of the most effective interventions to reduce the barriers to physical activity is essential. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: We will search five databases: two multidisciplinary (Scopus and Web of Science) and three other health-related databases (Embase, SPORTDiscus, and PubMed). The search will be limited to original peer-reviewed articles published in English, with no time restrictions. The search strategy will use MeSH terms and their variations to maximize the search strategy. Two reviewers will independently read the included articles, extract the data, and evaluate the methodological quality using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation scale and the risk of bias using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist and Downs and Black scale. Discrepancies will be resolved by a third reviewer. This systematic review will follow the guidelines outlined in the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. DISCUSSION: The outcomes of this study are expected to enhance the current understanding of the obstacles to physical activity among adolescents and aid in the development or modification of programs to combat physical inactivity in this population. Consequently, these findings should have a positive impact on current and future adolescent health outcomes. ETHICS AND DISCLOSURE: Ethical approval will not be required for this study as it is an analysis of previously published articles (i.e., secondary data). The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. PROSPERO registration: CRD42022382174.

1007. Kinetics of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgA, and IgG responses during the first 12 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection: A prospective longitudinal study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Amellal H, Assaid N, Charoute H

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health threat. The kinetics of antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) need to be assessed, as the long-term duration of these immunoglobulins remains largely controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the longitudinal dynamics of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies against the nucleocapsid (N) protein and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein up to one year in a cohort of 190 COVID-19 patients. Between March and September 2021, we enrolled patients from two regional hospitals in Casablanca, Morocco. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for antibody levels. We used the commercial Euroimmun ELISA for the determination of anti-N IgM, the Abbott Architect™ SARS-CoV-2 IgG test for the detection of anti-RBD IgG, and an in-house kit for the assay of anti-N IgG and anti-N IgA. IgM and IgA antibodies were assessed 2-5, 9-12, 17-20 and 32-37 days after symptom onset. IgG antibodies were also assessed 60, 90, 120 and 360 days after symptom onset. One-third of patients developed IgM (32%), while two-thirds developed IgA (61%). One month of symptom onset, most patients developed IgG, with 97% and 93% positivity for anti-RBD IgG and anti-N IgG, respectively. The anti-RBD IgG positivity rate remained high up to one year of follow-up. However, the anti-N IgG positivity rate decreased over time, with only 41% of patients testing positive after one year's follow-up. IgG levels were significantly higher in older people (over 50 years) than in other study participants. We also found that patients who had received two doses of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine prior to infection had a lower IgM response than unvaccinated patients. This difference was statistically significant two weeks after the onset of symptoms. We present the first study in Africa to measure the kinetics of antibody response (IgA, IgM and IgG) to SARS-CoV-2 over one year. Most participants remained seropositive for anti-RBD IgG after one year but showed a significant decline in antibody titers.

1008. Cochlear coverage with lateral wall cochlear implant electrode arrays affects post-operative speech recognition.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Weller T, Timm ME, Lenarz T

OBJECTIVES: The goal was to investigate the relationship between the insertion angle/cochlear coverage of cochlear implant electrode arrays and post-operative speech recognition scores in a large cohort of patients implanted with lateral wall electrode arrays. METHODS: Pre- and post-operative cone beam computed tomography scans of 154 ears implanted with lateral wall electrode arrays were evaluated. Traces of lateral wall and electrode arrays were combined into a virtual reconstruction of the implanted cochlea. This reconstruction was used to measure insertion angles and proportional cochlear coverage. Word recognition scores and sentence recognition scores measured 12 months after implantation using electric-only stimulation were used to examine the relationship between cochlear coverage/insertion angle and implantation outcomes. RESULTS: Post-operative word recognition scores and the difference between post- and pre-operative word recognition scores were positively correlated with both cochlear coverage and insertion angle, however sentence recognition scores were not. A group-wise comparison of word recognition scores revealed that patients with cochlear coverage below 70% performed significantly worse than patients with coverage between 79%-82% (p = 0.003). Performance of patients with coverage above 82% was on average poorer than between 79%-82, although this finding was not statistically significant (p = 0.84). Dividing the cohort into groups based on insertion angle quadrants revealed that word recognition scores were highest above 450° insertion angle, sentence recognition scores were highest between 450° and 630° and the difference between pre- and post-operative word recognition scores was largest between 540° and 630°, however none of these differences reached statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study show that cochlear coverage has an effect on post-operative word recognition abilities and the benefit patients receive from their implant. Generally, higher coverage led to better outcomes, however there were results indicating that insertion past 82% cochlear coverage may not provide an additional benefit for word recognition. These findings can be useful for choosing the optimal electrode array and thereby improving cochlear implantation outcomes on a patient-individual basis.

1009. The population genetic structure and phylogeographic dispersal of Nodularia breviconcha in the Korean Peninsula based on COI and 16S rRNA genes.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Kim G, Hwang UW.

1010. Characterization of vaccine confidence among teachers in British Columbia, Canada: A population-based survey.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Racey CS, Donken R, Fox E

OBJECTIVES: Teachers are an important occupational group to consider when addressing vaccine confidence and uptake for school-aged children due to their proximate role within school-based immunization programs. The objectives of this study were to characterize and identify sociodemographic factors associated with vaccine confidence and describe teachers' knowledge of and perceived role in the school-based immunization program, with the aim of informing public health policy and identifying opportunities for supporting teachers in their role in school-based immunization programs. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of elementary and secondary public-school teachers in British Columbia was completed from August to November 2020. Respondents provided sociodemographic information, as well as past vaccination experience, vaccine knowledge, and perceived role in the school-based immunization program. Vaccine confidence was measured using the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (VHS). Characteristics associated with the VHS sub-scales 'lack of confidence in vaccines' and 'perceived risk of vaccines', were explored using ANOVA. Descriptive analysis was completed for teachers' perceived role in the immunization program. RESULTS: 5,095 surveys were included in this analysis. Overall vaccine confidence was high, with vaccine hesitancy being related to the perceived risk of vaccines rather than a lack of confidence in the effectiveness of vaccines. ANOVA found significant differences for both VHS-sub-scales based on sociodemographic factors, however, the strength of the association was generally small. High general vaccine knowledge and never having delayed or refused a vaccine in the past were associated with higher vaccine confidence. Overall, teachers reported a lack of clarity in their role within the school-based immunization program. CONCLUSIONS: This large population-based observational study of teachers highlights a number of key engagement opportunities between public health and the education sector. Using a validated scale, we found that overall, teachers are highly accepting of vaccines, and well situated as potential partners with public health to address vaccine hesitancy.

1011. Environmental exposures and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Demelash Enyew H, Bogale BG, Hailu AB

BACKGROUND: Maternal exposures to environmental hazards during pregnancy are key determinants of birth outcomes that affect health, cognitive and economic status later in life. In Ethiopia, various epidemiological evidences have suggested associations between environmental exposures such as household air pollution, cigarette smoking, and pesticide exposure and pregnancy outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and birth defects. OBJECTIVE: This review aimed at generating summarized evidence on the association between maternal exposure to environmental factors (household air pollution, cigarette smoking, and pesticide) and pregnancy outcomes (birth weight, preterm birth, and birth defects) in Ethiopia. METHOD: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library databases. All observational study designs were eligible for inclusion in the review. Quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) quality assessment tools adopted for case-control and cross-sectional studies. The random-effects model was applied in computing the pooled estimates and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Funnel and Doi plots were used for detecting the potential publication bias. All statistical analyses were performed using comprehensive meta-analysis (CMA 2.0) and MetaXL version 5.3 software. RESULT: The pooled estimates revealed that prenatal biomass fuel use increased the risk of giving a low birth weight baby by twofold (OR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.33-3.31), and has no separate kitchen increases the risk of having low birth weight baby nearly by two and half times (OR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.25-4.92). Overall, using biomass fuel as the main energy source for cooking and /or having no separate kitchen from the main house is 2.37 times more likely to give low birth weight babies (OR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.58-3.53). Active cigarette smoker women were 4 times (OR = 4.11, 95% CI: 2.82-5.89) more prone to have low birth weight babies than nonsmokers; and passive smoker women were 2.6 times (OR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.09-6.35) more risked to give low birth weight babies. It was also estimated that active cigarette smoker women were nearly 4 times (OR = 3.90, 95% CI: 2.36-6.45) more likely to give preterm birth babies. Pesticide exposure during pregnancy also increases the risk of the birth defect 4 times (OR = 4.44, 95% CI: 2.61-7.57) compared with non-exposed pregnant women. CONCLUSION: Household air pollution from biomass fuel use, active and passive cigarette smoking, and pesticide exposures are significantly associated environmental risk factors for low birth weight, preterm birth, and birth defects in Ethiopia. Therefore, Pregnant and lactating women should be aware of these environmental hazards during pregnancy. Promoting clean energy and improved and efficient stoves at the household level will help to reduce household air pollution-related adverse health effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO 2022: CRD42022337140.

1012. Prognostic value of RGS1 and mTOR Immunohistochemical expression in Egyptian multiple myeloma patients; A single center study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Hafez N, Refaat L, ElGebaly OK

1013. The investigation of constraints in implementing robust AI colorectal polyp detection for sustainable healthcare system.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Bian H, Jiang M, Qian J.

1014. Minor changes in the incidence of primary and secondary involuntary childlessness across birth cohorts 1916 to 1975, but major differences in treatment success.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Skjeldestad FE.

There have been tremendous advances in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) over the past 50 years. The present study assessed infertility outcomes among women of reproductive age during this period. The seventh survey of the Tromsø Study (Tromsø7, 2015-16) recruited Tromsø residents aged 40-98 years. The questionnaire collected information on sociodemographics and infertility, as well as data from a wide range of validated health questionnaires. Primary involuntary childlessness was defined as reporting one or more of the following: the clinical definition of infertility (i.e., infertility period of >1 year), infertility examination, use of ART, and/or the birth of a child conceived during ART. Women with secondary involuntary childlessness were those who reported infertility experience and had least one naturally conceived child. Parous women without infertility experience were classified as fertile, and nulliparous women without infertility experience as voluntarily childless. The main exposure was birth cohort (1916-35, aged 80-98 years; 1936-45, aged 70-79 years; 1946-55, aged 60-69 years; 1956-65, aged 50-59 years; 1966-75, aged 40-49 years). The incidence of primary involuntary childlessness was significantly higher in the 1956-75 cohort (6.0%; 95% CI: 5.4-6.6) than the 1916-55 cohort (3.7%; 95% CI: 3.2-4.3). The incidence of secondary involuntary childlessness was higher than that of primary involuntary childlessness across all birth cohorts and was highest for the 1966-75 cohort (10%), with no differences observed across the other birth cohorts (6-7%). An increasing proportion of women from the oldest to the youngest birth cohorts reported infertility examination and ART. ART success increased substantially with time, reaching 58% for primary and 46% for secondary infertility in the 1966-75 cohort. Voluntarily childless women comprised 5-6% of the 1916-55 cohort and 9-10% of the 1956-75 cohort. There were minor differences in the incidence of primary and secondary involuntary childlessness across the 1916-75 cohorts. Advances in ART over the past 50 years comprised 2.0% and 3.3% of population growth in the 1956-65 and 1966-75 cohorts, respectively: a remarkable achievement.

1015. Towards a barrier-free anthropomorphic brain phantom for quantitative magnetic resonance imaging: Design, first construction attempt, and challenges.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Kraft M, Ryger S, Berman BP

1016. Epidemiology and nomogram of pediatric and young adulthood osteosarcoma patients with synchronous lung metastasis: A SEER analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Liu T, Cui L, He Z

BACKGROUND: Patients with osteosarcoma and synchronous lung metastasis (SLM) have poor survival. This study aimed to explore the epidemiology data and construct a predictive nomogram to identify cases at risk of SLM occurrence among pediatric and young adulthood osteosarcoma patients. METHODS: All data were extracted from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results 17 registries. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and annual percentage change was evaluated, and reported for the overall population and by age, gender, race, and primary site. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors associated with SLM occurrence, then significant factors were used to develop the nomogram. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and calibration curve were used to evaluated the predictive power of the nomogram. Survival analysis was assessed by the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Multivariate Cox analysis was used to determine the prognostic factors. RESULTS: A total of 278 out of 1965 patients (14.1%) presented with SLM at diagnosis. The ASIR increased significant from 0.46 to 0.66 per 1,000,000 person-years from year 2010 to 2019, with an annual percentage change of 3.5, mainly in patients with age 10-19 years, male and appendicular location. All patients were randomly assigned into train cohort and validation cohort with a spilt of 7:3. In the train cohort, higher tumor grade, bigger tumor size, positive lymph nodes and other site-specific metastases (SSM) were identified as significant risk factors associated with SLM occurrence. Then a nomogram was developed based on the four factors. The AUC and calibration curve in both train and validation cohorts demonstrated that the nomogram had moderate predictive power. The median cancer-specific survival was 25 months. Patients with age 20-39 years, male, positive lymph nodes, other SSM were adverse prognostic factors, while surgery was protective factor. CONCLUSIONS: This study performed a comprehensive analysis regarding pediatric and young adulthood osteosarcoma patients had SLM. A visual, clinically operable, and easy-to-interpret nomogram model was developed for predicting the risk of SLM, which could be used in clinic and help clinicians make better decisions.

1017. Rediscovery of Rhyacoglanis pulcher (Boulenger, 1887) (Siluriformes: Pseudopimelodidae), a rare rheophilic bumblebee catfish from Ecuadorian Amazon.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Chuctaya J, Shibatta OA, Encalada AC

1018. Hidden mysteries in ancient Egyptian paintings from the Theban Necropolis observed by in-situ XRF mapping.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Martinez P, Alfeld M, Defeyt C

The material study of ancient Egyptian paintings began with the advent of Egyptology during the 19th century. By the 1930s, a lot had already been sampled and described. The limited palette for example has been analysed from actual painted surfaces but also from pigments and painting tools retrieved on site. However, most of these studies took place in museums while the painted surfaces, preserved in funerary chapels and temples, remained somewhat estranged from this primary physical understanding. The artistic process has been also reconstructed, mainly from the information presented by unfinished monuments, showing surfaces at different stages of completion. A lot of this modern and theoretical reconstruction is, however, based on the usual archaeological guessing game that aims at filling the remaining blanks. Our interdisciplinary project has decided to experiment on-site with state-of-the-art portable analysis tools, avoiding any physical sampling, to see if our knowledge of the work of the ancient Egyptian painters and draughtsmen could be taken at a further stage, while based on physical quantification that could be seen as a stronger and more reliable foundation for a redefined scientific hypothesis. The use of XRF mapping has, for instance, been applied to a known case of correction by surface repaint, something that is supposedly rare in the ancient Egyptian formal artistic process, while another fully unexpected one was discovered during the analytic exploration of a royal representation. In both cases, the precise and readable imaging of the physical composition of the painted surface offers a renewed visual approach based of chemistry, that can be shared through a multi- and interdisciplinary approach. However, this also leads to a more complex description of pigment mixtures that could have multiple meanings, where the practical often leads towards the symbolic, and from there hopefully to a renewed definition of the use of colours in complex sets of ancient Egyptian representations. At this stage, though the progress in this on-site material assessment of ancient works of art definitely means astonishing progress, one humbly has to face the fact that these ancient treasures shall still retain part of their defining mysteries.

1019. Gaussian hierarchical latent Dirichlet allocation: Bringing polysemy back.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Yoshida T, Hisano R, Ohnishi T.

1020. Variability of clinical chemical and hematological parameters, immunological parameters, and behavioral tests in data sets of the Mouse Phenome Database.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Aigner B, Heumann C.

1021. Cat: Empirical modelling of Felis catus population dynamics in the UK.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

McDonald J, Finka L, Foreman-Worsley R

Domestic cats are popular companion animals, however not all live in human homes and many cats live within shelters or as free-roaming, unowned- feral or stray cats. Cats can transition between these subpopulations, but the influence of this connectivity on overall population dynamics, and the effectiveness of management interventions, remain poorly understood. We developed a UK-focused multistate Matrix Population Model (MPM), combining multiple life history parameters into an integrated model of cat demography and population dynamics. The model characterises cats according to their age, subpopulation and reproductive status, resulting in a 28-state model. We account for density-dependence, seasonality and uncertainty in our modelled projections. Through simulations, we examine the model by testing the effect of different female owned-cat neutering scenarios over a 10-year projection timespan. We also use the model to identify the vital rates to which total population growth is most sensitive. The current model framework demonstrates that increased prevalence of neutering within the owned cat subpopulation influences the population dynamics of all subpopulations. Further simulations find that neutering owned cats younger is sufficient to reduce overall population growth rate, regardless of the overall neutering prevalence. Population growth rate is most influenced by owned cat survival and fecundity. Owned cats, which made up the majority of our modelled population, have the most influence on overall population dynamics, followed by stray, feral and then shelter cats. Due to the importance of owned-cat parameters within the current model framework, we find cat population dynamics are most sensitive to shifts in owned cat husbandry. Our results provide a first evaluation of the demography of the domestic cat population in the UK and provide the first structured population model of its kind, thus contributing to a wider understanding of the importance of modelling connectivity between subpopulations. Through example scenarios we highlight the importance of studying domestic cat populations in their entirety to better understand factors influencing their dynamics and to guide management planning. The model provides a theoretical framework for further development, tailoring to specific geographies and experimental investigation of management interventions.

1022. Histone methyltransferase SUV39H1 regulates the Golgi complex via the nuclear envelope-spanning LINC complex.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Nishino M, Imaizumi H, Yokoyama Y

1023. Vaccine related crowdfunding on a 'Freedom Fundraising' platform.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Snyder J, Zenone M.

INTRODUCTION: Donation-based crowdfunding was heavily used during the COVID-19 pandemic. While most of these campaigns were uncontroversial, others spread misinformation or undermined public health. In response, mainstream crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe restricted what campaigns they would host. This led some campaigns to shift to lesser-known and less restrictive crowdfunding platforms. While research on health-related misinformation on mainstream crowdfunding platforms is increasing, less is known about crowdfunding on less restrictive platforms like GiveSendGo. The aim of this study is to review vaccine-related crowdfunding campaigns on the GiveSendGo platform to better understand: 1) how vaccines are portrayed on GiveSendGo; and 2) how successful these campaigns have been at attracting financial support. METHODS: We searched the GiveSendGo crowdfunding platform for campaigns including "vaccine" or "vaccination". This process yielded 907 unique results which were then scraped for their campaign text and fundraising data. The authors reviewed these campaigns for fundraisers whose aims related to vaccines for humans and assigned campaigns as being for 1) Accessing vaccines; 2) creating Spaces for the unvaccinated; 3) helping Unvaccinated Individuals); 4) Advocacy about vaccines; 5) supporting Anti-Mandate actions; and 6) responding to Vaccine Injuries. FINDINGS: We identified 765 crowdfunding campaigns that raised $6,814,817 and requested $838,578,249. Anti-Mandate campaigns were most common, followed by Unvaccinated Individuals, Vaccine Injuries, Advocacy, Access, and Spaces. Only Access campaigns took a positive or neutral view toward vaccines. Themes of freedom and religion cut across campaign types with campaigns critical of vaccines invoking bodily autonomy and religious freedom as justifying their fundraisers. DISCUSSION: Very few of these fundraisers met their goals. With the exception of Access campaigns, they frequently contained highly polarizing language advocating against public health mandates, misinformation about vaccine safety, and language from bioethics and reproductive choice advocates. Restrictions on vaccine-related campaigns on the GoFundMe platform likely drove campaign creation on GiveSendGo.

1024. The influence of social withdrawal and depression on the self-esteem of female adolescents: The mediating effect of grit.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Lee D, Lee S.

1025. Local government debt and corporate tax burden: A perspective based on the trade-off of government tax collection and management.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Tang W, Zhao X, Zhai S

As an important source of local fiscal revenue, will enterprise tax be affected by local government debt? What role do the government's tax collection and management motives and behaviors play in this effect? By investigating the impact of local government debt on the actual tax burden of enterprises, this study shows that local governments have a trade-off of tax collection in the process of resolving the debt repayment pressure. The study finds that, in general, the expansion of local government debt has increased the actual tax burden of enterprises, which is mainly reflected in non-state-owned enterprises and enterprises that are collected and managed by the local tax department. The results of the mechanism test show that local debt pressure will encourage local governments to adjust the intensity of tax collection and tax incentives, and then increase the level of tax burden of enterprises in the jurisdiction. Furthermore, the heterogeneity test that distinguishes the institutional environment shows that there are significant differences in the taxation behavior of local governments and the impact of the corporate tax burden in different regions. Specifically, the strict tax behavior of local governments is more significant in regions with better institutional environment, while regions with worse institutional environment, due to the lack of market competitiveness, are more inclined to provide a relaxed tax collection environment to enterprises in their jurisdiction, so as to stabilize the tax base and resolve debts through long-term tax growth. In the context of unbalanced regional development, this study provides empirical evidence that the expansion of local debt affects the taxation behavior of local governments, and then affects the actual tax burden of enterprises in the jurisdiction, which is helpful to understand the government behavior during the transition period of developing countries, and provides policy implications for improving the public debt management system, creating a fair tax environment, and promoting high-quality economic growth.

1026. Estimated direct and indirect health care costs of severe infectious keratitis by cultured organisms in Thailand: An 8-year retrospective study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Chantra S, Jittreprasert S, Chotcomwongse P

PURPOSE: To evaluate the economic impact of treating severe infectious keratitis (IK) at one tertiary referral center in Thailand by analyzing the direct costs of treatment and estimating the indirect costs, and to determine whether cultured organisms had any effect on treatment expenditure. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted of patients with severe IK who had been hospitalized between January 2014 and December 2021 in Rajavithi Hospital. Data from medical records were collected from the time of the patients' admission until the point at which they were discharged and treated in the outpatient department and their IK was completely healed, or until evisceration/enucleation was performed. The direct costs of treatment included fees for services, medical professionals and investigation, as well as for operative and non-operative treatment. The indirect costs consisted of patients' loss of wages, and costs of travel and food. RESULTS: A total of 335 patients were studied. The median direct, indirect and total costs were US$65.2, range US$ 6.5-1,119.1, US$314.5, range US$50.8-1,067.5, and US$426.1, range 57.5-1,971.5 respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between direct, indirect, or total treatment costs for culture-negative and culture-positive patients. Among those who were positive, fungal infections entailed the highest total cost of treatment, and this difference was statistically significant (p<0.001). In terms of direct and indirect costs, patients with fungal infections had the greatest direct costs, and this figure was statistically significant (p = 0.001); however, those with parasitic infections had the highest indirect treatment costs, and this was also statistically significant (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Severe IK can cause serious vision impairment or blindness. Indirect costs represented the majority of the expense at 73.8%. There was no difference between direct, indirect, and total treatment costs for patients who were culture-negative or positive. Among the latter, fungal infections resulted in the highest total cost of treatment.

1027. Feasibility of microencapsulated phytochemical as disinfectant for inhibition of Candida albicans proliferation on denture base produced by digital light processing.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Jo YH, Lee WJ, Yoon HI.

BACKGROUNDS: A proper disinfection of denture is vital to prevent a fungal infection. A study on the feasibility of microencapsulated phytochemical as complementary disinfectant and its interaction with effervescent tablet immersion on denture base resin is lacking. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of phytochemical-filled microcapsules as disinfectant for the inhibition of Candida albicans (C. albicans) attachment on the denture base produced by digital light processing (DLP). METHODS: 54 denture base specimens uniformly mixed with or without 5wt% phytochemical-filled microcapsules were prepared using DLP. Fungal cells were inoculated onto the surfaces of the specimens, which were divided into three different disinfection treatment groups (n = 9): 1) none, 2) sterile tap water immersion for 15 min, and 3) effervescent tablet immersion for 15 min. After each treatment, the biofilm on denture surface was stained with a crystal violet solution to measure the absorbance. The number of fungal colonies was counted as colony-forming units (CFU) per mL. Morphological changes were examined by microscopy. An aligned rank transform analysis of variance was performed to analyze the interaction of presence of microcapsule and disinfection condition, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Both for the absorbance and CFU, there was no significant interaction between the presence of microcapsules and disinfection conditions (P = 0.543 and P = 0.077, respectively). The presence of microcapsules was statistically significant (both P < 0.001), while the effect of disinfection condition was not significant (P = 0.165 and P = 0.189, respectively). Morphological changes in fungi were detected in the groups containing microcapsules, whereas undamaged hyphal structures were found in those without microcapsules, irrespective of disinfection treatments. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of phytochemical-filled microcapsules significantly reduced the adhesion of C. albicans and inhibited its proliferation on denture surfaces, regardless of disinfection conditions.

1028. The impact of angles of insonation on left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain estimation in fetal speckle tracking echocardiography.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Nichting TJ, de Vet CM, van der Ven M

1029. Heterogeneity of variance and genetic parameters for milk production in cattle, using Bayesian inference.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Júnior RNCC, Fernandes LDS, do Carmo Panetto JC

1030. Modelling underreported spatio-temporal crime events.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Riascos Villegas ÁJ, Ñungo JS, Gómez Tobón L

1031. In vitro and in silico studies for the identification of anti-cancer and antibacterial peptides from camel milk protein hydrolysates.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Taghipour MJ, Ezzatpanah H, Ghahderijani M.

1032. Subchondral defects resembling osteochondrosis dissecans in joint surfaces of the extinct saber-toothed cat Smilodon fatalis and dire wolf Aenocyon dirus.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Schmökel H, Farrell A, Balisi MF.

Skeletal disease may hamper the behavior of large predators both living and extinct. We investigated the prevalence of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD), a developmental bone disease affecting the joints, in two Ice Age predators: the saber-toothed cat Smilodon fatalis and dire wolf Aenocyon dirus. As published cases in modern Felidae and wild Canidae are rare, we predicted that subchondral defects resembling OCD would be rare in the extinct predators. We examined limb joints in juvenile and adult S. fatalis: 88 proximal humeri (shoulder), 834 distal femora (stifle), and 214 proximal tibiae. We also examined limb joints in juvenile and adult A. dirus: 242 proximal humeri, 266 distal femora, and 170 proximal tibiae. All specimens are from the Late Pleistocene Rancho La Brea fossil locality in Los Angeles, California, USA. While the Smilodon shoulder and tibia showed no subchondral defects, subchondral defects in the Smilodon femur had a prevalence of 6%; most defects were small (<7mm); and nine adult stifles with defects also showed osteoarthritis. Subchondral defects in the A. dirus femur had a prevalence of 2.6%; most defects were large (>12mm); and five stifles further developed mild osteoarthritis. Subchondral defects in the A. dirus shoulder had a prevalence of 4.5%; most defects were small, and three shoulders developed moderate osteoarthritis. No defects were found in the A. dirus tibia. Contrary to our prediction, we found a high prevalence of subchondral defects in the stifle and shoulder of S. fatalis and A. dirus resembling OCD found in humans and other mammals. As modern dogs affected by OCD are highly inbred, this high prevalence in the fossil taxa may suggest that they experienced inbreeding as they approached extinction. The deep-time history of this disease supports the need for monitoring of animal domestication, as well as conservation, to avoid unexpected surges in OCD under conditions like inbreeding.

1033. Staphylococcal species composition in the skin microbiota of domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 12

Szczuka E, Wesołowska M, Krawiec A

1034. The relationship between ambient temperature and match running performance of elite soccer players.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Morgans R, Bezuglov E, Rhodes D

1035. Characterization of the alternative splicing landscape in lung adenocarcinoma reveals novel prognosis signature associated with B cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Shao MM, Zhai K, Huang ZY

1036. Treatment and care received by children hospitalized with COVID-19 in a large hospital network in the United States, February 2020 to September 2021.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Fuller CC, Cosgrove A, Shinde M

1037. The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health and well-being of ambulance care professionals: A rapid review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Ebben RHA, Woensdregt T, Wielenga-Meijer E

The COVID-19 pandemic has a significant impact on the health and well-being of all healthcare professionals. However, for ambulance care professionals it is unknown on which health outcomes the impact of COVID-19 is measured, and what the actual impact on these health outcomes is. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain insight in a) which type of health outcomes were measured in relation to the impact of COVID-19 among ambulance care professionals, and b) to determine the actual impact on these outcomes. A rapid review was performed in PubMed (including MEDLINE) and APA PsycInfo (EBSCO). All types of study designs on health and well-being of ambulance care professionals were included. Selection on title an abstract was performed by pairs of two reviewers. Full text selection, data extraction and quality assessment were performed by one reviewer, with a check by a second independent reviewer. The systematic searches identified 3906 unique hits, seven articles meeting selection criteria were included. Six studies quantitatively measured distress (36,0%) and PTSD (18.5%-30.9%), anxiety (14.2%-65.6%), depression (12.4%-15.3%), insomnia (60.9%), fear of infection and transmission of infection (41%-68%), and psychological burden (49.4%-92.2%). These studies used a variety of instruments, ranging from internationally validated instruments to self-developed and unvalidated questionnaires. One study qualitatively explored coping with COVID-19 by ambulance care professionals and reported that ambulance care professionals use five different strategies to cope with the impact of COVID-19. There is limited attention for the health and well-being of ambulance care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the included number of studies and included outcomes are too limited to draw strong conclusions, our results indicate higher rates of distress, PTSD and insomnia compared to the pre-COVID-19 era. Our results urge the need to investigate the health and well-being of ambulance care professionals during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

1038. Genetic reanalysis of patients with a difference of sex development carrying the NR5A1/SF-1 variant p.Gly146Ala has discovered other likely disease-causing variations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Martinez de Lapiscina I, Kouri C, Aurrekoetxea J

NR5A1/SF-1 (Steroidogenic factor-1) variants may cause mild to severe differences of sex development (DSD) or may be found in healthy carriers. The NR5A1/SF-1 c.437G>C/p.Gly146Ala variant is common in individuals with a DSD and has been suggested to act as a susceptibility factor for adrenal disease or cryptorchidism. Since the allele frequency is high in the general population, and the functional testing of the p.Gly146Ala variant revealed inconclusive results, the disease-causing effect of this variant has been questioned. However, a role as a disease modifier is still possible given that oligogenic inheritance has been described in patients with NR5A1/SF-1 variants. Therefore, we performed next generation sequencing (NGS) in 13 DSD individuals harboring the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant to search for other DSD-causing variants and clarify the function of this variant for the phenotype of the carriers. Panel and whole-exome sequencing was performed, and data were analyzed with a filtering algorithm for detecting variants in NR5A1- and DSD-related genes. The phenotype of the studied individuals ranged from scrotal hypospadias and ambiguous genitalia in 46,XY DSD to opposite sex in both 46,XY and 46,XX. In nine subjects we identified either a clearly pathogenic DSD gene variant (e.g. in AR) or one to four potentially deleterious variants that likely explain the observed phenotype alone (e.g. in FGFR3, CHD7). Our study shows that most individuals carrying the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant, harbor at least one other deleterious gene variant which can explain the DSD phenotype. This finding confirms that the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala variant may not contribute to the pathogenesis of DSD and qualifies as a benign polymorphism. Thus, individuals, in whom the NR5A1/SF-1 p.Gly146Ala gene variant has been identified as the underlying genetic cause for their DSD in the past, should be re-evaluated with a NGS method to reveal the real genetic diagnosis.

1039. Maternal occupational risk factors and preterm birth: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Adane HA, Iles R, Boyle JA

INTRODUCTION: Preterm birth, which accounts for 33.1% of neonatal death globally, is the main cause of under-five mortality. A growing number of studies indicate that occupational risk factors during pregnancy are linked to an increased likelihood of poor pregnancy outcomes. The effect of physical occupational risks on preterm birth has received very little attention, and previous reviews have produced inconclusive results. This systematic review aims to update the evidence on the relationship between maternal physical occupational risks and preterm birth. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: We will search electronic databases including Ovid Medline, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of science to find peer-reviewed studies examining the relationship between six common maternal physical occupational risks (heavy lifting, prolonged standing, heavy physical exertion, long working hours, shift work, and whole-body vibrations) and preterm birth. Articles published in English after 1 January 2000 will be included without geographic restrictions. Two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts independently, and then select full-text articles that meet inclusion criteria. Methodological quality of the included studies will be evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal method. The quality of evidence across each exposure and the outcome of interest will be examined by using the GRADE (Grade of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, Evaluation) method. Accordingly, a high level of evidence will lead to "strong recommendations". A moderate level of evidence will lead to "practice considerations". For all evidence levels below moderate, the message will be "not enough evidence from the scientific literature to guide policymakers, clinicians, and patients. If data permits, a meta-analysis will be conducted using Stata Software. In case where meta-analysis is not possible, we will perform a formal narrative synthesis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Evidence suggests that preterm birth is linked to a number of maternal occupational risk factors. This systematic review will update, compile, and critically review the evidence on the effect of maternal physical occupational risk on preterm birth. This systematic review will provide guidance to support decision-makers including maternal and child health services, other health care providers, and government policy agencies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022357045.

1040. Combinatorial targeting of a specific EMT/MET network by macroH2A variants safeguards mesenchymal identity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Valakos D, Klagkou E, Kokkalis A

1041. Effects of nitrogen reduction combined with bio-organic fertilizer on soil bacterial community diversity of red raspberry orchard.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Yuan X, Zhang J, Chang F

Understanding soil bacterial diversity under nitrogen reduction is necessary for the crucial role in soil nitrogen cycling. However, the effects of combined fertilization on soil chemical properties, microbial community structure, and yield are unknown. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of nitrogen fertilizer reduction with bio-organic fertilizer on soil bacterial community diversity of red raspberry orchard. Six treatments were set in this study: NF-100%, NF-75%, NF-50%, NF-25% and CF, no nitrogen fertilizer and bio-organic fertilizer for CK. The bacterial community structures of soil were analyzed by 16S rRNA gene amplification high-throughput sequencing technology. Nitrogen fertilizer reduction with bio-organic fertilizer increased soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen (AN), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), and reduced soil pH. NF-50% and NF-25% treatments increased the yield of red raspberry. Nitrogen reduction combined with bio-organic fertilizer increased the relative abundance of copiotrophic bacteria and decreased the relative abundance of oligotrophic bacteria. The increase in copiotrophic bacteria in the soil of red raspberry orchard could indicate an increase in soil nutrient availability, which have positive implications for soil fertility and production. However, nitrogen fertilizer reduction with bio-organic fertilizer altered the abundance and diversity of soil bacteria, which was reduced compared to CF treatments. The PCoA analysis of the soil bacterial community showed that the community structure of NF-25% treatment was more different from other treatments, indicating that the fertilization method changed the community structure of soil bacteria. The results of a redundancy analysis showed that SOM, pH, AN, TN, and AP were the main factors affecting the microbial community structure. Overall, the reduction of nitrogen fertilizer with bio-organic fertilizer significantly increased the soil nutrient content, reduced the relative abundance and diversity of soil bacteria, increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria in the soil, changed the bacterial community structure of soil, increased production and created suitable soil conditions for the red raspberry growth.

1042. Characteristics of perceived effective telesupervision practices: A case study of supervisees and supervisors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Martin P, Lizarondo L, Kumar S

1043. Assessing a biomarker's ability to reduce invasive procedures in patients with benign lung nodules: Results from the ORACLE study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Pritchett MA, Sigal B, Bowling MR

A blood-based integrated classifier (IC) has been clinically validated to improve accuracy in assessing probability of cancer risk (pCA) for pulmonary nodules (PN). This study evaluated the clinical utility of this biomarker for its ability to reduce invasive procedures in patients with pre-test pCA ≤ 50%. This was a propensity score matching (PSM) cohort study comparing patients in the ORACLE prospective, multicenter, observational registry to control patients treated with usual care. This study enrolled patients meeting the intended use criteria for IC testing: pCA ≤ 50%, age ≥40 years, nodule diameter 8-30 mm, and no history of lung cancer and/or active cancer (except for non-melanomatous skin cancer) within 5 years. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate invasive procedure use on benign PNs of registry patients as compared to control patients. A total of 280 IC tested, and 278 control patients met eligibility and analysis criteria and 197 were in each group after PSM (IC and control groups). Patients in the IC group were 74% less likely to undergo an invasive procedure as compared to the control group (absolute difference 14%, p <0.001) indicating that for every 7 patients tested, one unnecessary invasive procedure was avoided. Invasive procedure reduction corresponded to a reduction in risk classification, with 71 patients (36%) in the IC group classified as low risk (pCA < 5%). The proportion of IC group patients with malignant PNs sent to surveillance were not statistically different than the control group, 7.5% vs 3.5% for the IC vs. control groups, respectively (absolute difference 3.91%, p 0.075). The IC for patients with a newly discovered PN has demonstrated valuable clinical utility in a real-world setting. Use of this biomarker can change physicians' practice and reduce invasive procedures in patients with benign pulmonary nodules. Trial registration: Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03766958.

1044. Indonesian healthcare professionals' experiences in rural and urban settings during the first wave of COVID-19: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Sutrisni IA, Kekalih A, Friska D

1045. Deep data mining reveals variable abundance and distribution of microbial reproductive manipulators within and among diverse host species.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Medina P, Russell SL, Corbett-Detig R.

1046. Dermokine mutations contribute to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and advanced melanoma through ERK/MAPK pathways.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Ma W, Wu Z, Maghsoudloo M

1047. Understanding the characteristics of high users of hospital services in Singapore and their associations with healthcare utilisation and mortality: A cluster analysis.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Ginting ML, Ang YH, Ho SH

INTRODUCTION: High users of hospital services require targeted healthcare services planning for effective resource allocation due to their high costs. This study aims to segmentize the population in the "Ageing In Place-Community Care Team" (AIP-CCT), a programme for complex patients with high inpatient service use, and examine the association of segment membership and healthcare utilisation and mortality. METHODS: We analysed 1,012 patients enrolled between June 2016 and February 2017. To identify patient segments, a cluster analysis was performed based on medical complexity and psychosocial needs. Next, multivariable negative binomial regression was performed using patient segments as the predictor, with healthcare and programme utilisation over the 180-day follow-up as outcomes. Multivariate cox proportional hazard regression was applied to assess the time to first hospital admission and mortality between segments within the 180-day follow-up. All models were adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, ward class, and baseline healthcare utilisation. RESULTS: Three distinct segments were identified (Segment 1 (n = 236), Segment 2 (n = 331), and Segment 3 (n = 445)). Medical, functional, and psychosocial needs of individuals were significantly different between segments (p-value<0.001). The rates of hospitalisation in Segments 1 (IRR = 1.63, 95%CI:1.3-2.1) and 2 (IRR = 2.11, 95%CI:1.7-2.6) were significantly higher than in Segment 3 on follow-up. Similarly, both Segments 1 (IRR = 1.76, 95%CI:1.6-2.0) and 2 (IRR = 1.25, 95%CI:1.1-1.4) had higher rates of programme utilisation compared to Segment 3. Patients in Segments 1 (HR = 2.48, 95%CI:1.5-4.1) and 2 (HR = 2.25, 95%CI:1.3-3.6) also had higher mortality on follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: This study provided a data-based approach to understanding healthcare needs among complex patients with high inpatient services utilisation. Resources and interventions can be tailored according to the differences in needs among segments, to facilitate better allocation.

1048. Divergence of cochlear transcriptomics between reference‑based and reference‑free transcriptome analyses among Rhinolophus ferrumequinum populations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Shi X, Li J, Liu T

1049. Avoidable diet-related deaths and cost-of-illness with culturally optimized modifications in diet: The case of Brazil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Verly E Jr, Machado ÍE, Meireles AL

1050. Correction: miR-146a Ameliorates Liver Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Suppressing IRAK1 and TRAF6.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Jiang W, Kong L, Ni Q

1051. Income distribution in Thailand is scale-invariant.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Sitthiyot T.

1052. Optimising quality of life for people living with heart failure in care homes: Protocol for the co-design and feasibility testing of a digital intervention.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

McMahon J, Brown Wilson C, Hill L

BACKGROUND: Heart failure (HF) affects up to 64.3 million people globally. Advancements in pharmaceutical, device or surgical therapies, have led to patients living longer with HF. Heart failure affects 20% of care home residents, with these individuals presenting as older, frailer, and with more complex needs compared to those living at home. Thus, improving care home staff (e.g., registered nurse and care assistant) knowledge of HF has the potential to benefit patient care and reduce acute care utilization. Our aim is to co-design, and feasibility test, a digital intervention to improve care home staff knowledge of HF and optimise quality of life for those living with the condition in long-term residential care. METHODS: Using a logic model, three workstreams have been identified. Workstream 1 (WS1), comprised of three steps, will inform the 'inputs' of the model. First, qualitative interviews (n = 20) will be conducted with care home staff to identify facilitators and barriers in the provision of care to people with HF. Concurrently, a scoping review will be undertaken to synthesise current evidence of HF interventions within care homes. The last step will involve a Delphi study with 50-70 key stakeholders (for example care home staff, people with HF and their family and friends) to determine key education priorities related to HF. Using data from WS1, a digital intervention to improve care home staff knowledge and self-efficacy of HF will be co-designed in workstream 2 (WS2) alongside those living with HF or their carers, HF professionals, and care home staff. Lastly, workstream 3 (WS3) will involve mixed-methods feasibility testing of the digital intervention. Outcomes include staff knowledge on HF and self-efficacy in caring for HF residents, intervention usability, perceived benefits of the digital intervention on quality of life for care home residents, and care staff experience of implementing the intervention. DISCUSSION: As HF affects many care home residents, it is vital that care home staff are equipped to support people living with HF in these settings. With limited interventional research in this area, it is envisaged that the resulting digital intervention will have relevance for HF resident care both nationally and internationally.

1053. Economic freedom, inclusive growth, and financial development: A heterogeneous panel analysis of developing countries.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Yang Z, Vitenu-Sackey PA, Hao L

1054. The design and evaluation of a training program on culturally competent psychosocial care provision for men who have sex with men in Senegal.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Nabil F, Grachev K, Gasch-Gallén Á

1055. A comprehensive satellite-based assessment across the Pacific Arctic Distributed Biological Observatory shows widespread late-season sea surface warming and sea ice declines with significant influences on primary productivity.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Frey KE, Comiso JC, Stock LV

Massive declines in sea ice cover and widespread warming seawaters across the Pacific Arctic region over the past several decades have resulted in profound shifts in marine ecosystems that have cascaded throughout all trophic levels. The Distributed Biological Observatory (DBO) provides sampling infrastructure for a latitudinal gradient of biological "hotspot" regions across the Pacific Arctic region, with eight sites spanning the northern Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (a) to provide an assessment of satellite-based environmental variables for the eight DBO sites (including sea surface temperature (SST), sea ice concentration, annual sea ice persistence and the timing of sea ice breakup/formation, chlorophyll-a concentrations, primary productivity, and photosynthetically available radiation (PAR)) as well as their trends across the 2003-2020 time period; and (b) to assess the importance of sea ice presence/open water for influencing primary productivity across the region and for the eight DBO sites in particular. While we observe significant trends in SST, sea ice, and chlorophyll-a/primary productivity throughout the year, the most significant and synoptic trends for the DBO sites have been those during late summer and autumn (warming SST during October/November, later shifts in the timing of sea ice formation, and increases in chlorophyll-a/primary productivity during August/September). Those DBO sites where significant increases in annual primary productivity over the 2003-2020 time period have been observed include DBO1 in the Bering Sea (37.7 g C/m2/year/decade), DBO3 in the Chukchi Sea (48.0 g C/m2/year/decade), and DBO8 in the Beaufort Sea (38.8 g C/m2/year/decade). The length of the open water season explains the variance of annual primary productivity most strongly for sites DBO3 (74%), DBO4 in the Chukchi Sea (79%), and DBO6 in the Beaufort Sea (78%), with DBO3 influenced most strongly with each day of additional increased open water (3.8 g C/m2/year per day). These synoptic satellite-based observations across the suite of DBO sites will provide the legacy groundwork necessary to track additional and inevitable future physical and biological change across the region in response to ongoing climate warming.

1056. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) level, but not ACE gene polymorphism, is associated with prognosis of COVID-19 infection: Implications for diabetes and hypertension.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Elbasan O, Bayram F, Yazan CD

BACKGROUND: The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system was shown to be activated in severe COVID-19 infection. We aimed to investigate the relationship between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) levels, ACE gene polymorphism, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and hypertension (HT) and the prognosis of COVID-19 infection. METHODS: This cross-sectional study analyzed the clinical features of adult patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE gene analysis and ACE level measurements were performed. The patients were grouped according to ACE gene polymorphism (DD, ID or II), disease severity (mild, moderate, or severe), and the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 enzyme inhibitor (DPP4i), ACE-inhibitor (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and mortality were also recorded. RESULTS: A total of 266 patients were enrolled. Gene analysis detected DD polymorphism in the ACE 1 gene in 32.7% (n = 87), ID in 51.5% (n = 137), and II in 15.8% (n = 42) of the patients. ACE gene polymorphisms were not associated with disease severity, ICU admission, or mortality. ACE levels were higher in patients who died (p = 0.004) or were admitted to the ICU (p<0.001) and in those with severe disease compared to cases with mild (p = 0.023) or moderate (p<0.001) disease. HT, T2DM, and ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use were not associated with mortality or ICU admission. ACE levels were similar in patients with or without HT (p = 0.374) and with HT using or not using ACEi/ARB (p = 0.999). They were also similar in patients with and without T2DM (p = 0.062) and in those with and without DPP4i treatment (p = 0.427). ACE level was a weak predictor of mortality but an important predictor of ICU admission. It predicted ICU admission in total (cutoff value >37.092 ng/mL, AUC: 0.775, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that higher ACE levels, but not ACE gene polymorphism, ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use, were associated with the prognosis of COVID-19 infection. The presence of HT and T2DM and ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use were not associated with mortality or ICU admission.

1057. Decision models of emission reduction considering CSR under reward-penalty policy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Wang Y, Chen X, Zhou X.

1058. National consensus on entrustable professional activities for competency-based training in anaesthesiology.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Ganzhorn A, Schulte-Uentrop L, Küllmei J

1059. Metabolic multireactor: Practical considerations for using simple oxygen sensing optodes for high-throughput batch reactor metabolism experiments.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Kaufman MH, Torgeson J, Stegen JC.

1060. A novel in vitro model to study prolonged Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in the cystic fibrosis bronchial epithelium.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Hirsch MJ, Hughes EM, Easter MM

1061. Fertility return after hormonal contraceptive discontinuation and associated factors among women attended Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia Dessie model clinic, Northeast Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Damtie Y, Kefale B, Arefaynie M

BACKGROUND: Women who use hormonal contraception face delayed return of fertility upon discontinuation. There was limited evidence of fertility return after hormonal contraceptive discontinuation in the study area. Hence this study assessed fertility return after hormonal contraceptive discontinuation and associated factors among pregnant women attending Family Guidance Association Ethiopia (FGAE) Dessie model clinic, Northeast Ethiopia, 2019. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 samples selected by using systematic random sampling. Data were collected by face-to-face interview using a pretested and structured questionnaire and reviewing client records. Data were entered using Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Both bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regressions were used to identify predictors of delayed fertility return. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) along with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to measure the strength and the direction of the association and statistical significance was declared at a P-value less than 0.05. RESULT: The proportion of fertility return among currently pregnant women after discontinuation of any hormonal contraceptive methods was 88.6% (95% CI; (85.6%-92%)). The proportion of fertility return among Depo-Provera, implant, Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD), and Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP) users was 75%, 99.1%, 100%, and 97.8% respectively. Age, (AOR = 5.37, (95% CI; (1.48, 13.6)) and using Depo-Provera (AOR = 4.82, 95% CI; (1.89, 14.2)) had a significant association with delayed fertility return. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of fertility return among women after discontinuation of any hormonal contraceptive methods was high. Age and using Depo-Provera had a positive association with delayed fertility return. This study recommends a contraceptive counseling approach that addresses concerns about delay in the return of fertility after hormonal contraceptive discontinuation to avoid confusion among family planning users.

1062. Charitable giving: The role of framing and information.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Keser C, Kliemt H, Späth M.

1063. Human-robot collaborative task planning using anticipatory brain responses.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Ehrlich SK, Dean-Leon E, Tacca N

1064. Logistics hub location for high-speed rail freight transport with road-rail intermodal transport network.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Li S, Lang M, Chen X

1065. Extending universal health coverage to informal workers: A systematic review of health financing schemes in low- and middle-income countries in Southeast Asia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Kaiser AH, Rotigliano N, Flessa S

Achieving universal health coverage (UHC) is a priority of most low- and middle-income countries, reflecting governments' commitments to improved population health. However, high levels of informal employment in many countries create challenges to progress toward UHC, with governments struggling to extend access and financial protection to informal workers. One region characterized by a high prevalence of informal employment is Southeast Asia. Focusing on this region, we systematically reviewed and synthesized published evidence of health financing schemes implemented to extend UHC to informal workers. Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched for both peer-reviewed articles and reports in the grey literature. We appraised study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklists for systematic reviews. We synthesized extracted data using thematic analysis based on a common conceptual framework for analyzing health financing schemes, and we categorized the effect of these schemes on progress towards UHC along the dimensions of financial protection, population coverage, and service access. Findings suggest that countries have taken a variety of approaches to extend UHC to informal workers and implemented schemes with different revenue raising, pooling, and purchasing provisions. Population coverage rates differed across health financing schemes; those with explicit political commitments toward UHC that adopted universalist approaches reached the highest coverage of informal workers. Results for financial protection indicators were mixed, though indicated overall downward trends in out-of-pocket expenditures, catastrophic health expenditure, and impoverishment. Publications generally reported increased utilization rates through the introduced health financing schemes. Overall, this review supports the existing evidence base that predominant reliance on general revenues with full subsidies for and mandatory coverage of informal workers are promising directions for reform. Importantly, the paper extends existing research by offering countries committed to progressively realizing UHC around the world a relevant updated resource, mapping evidence-informed approaches toward accelerated progress on the UHC goals.

1066. Endocardial versus whole-myocardial tracking global longitudinal strain analysis in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A preliminary comparative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Park J, Yoon YE, Chun EJ

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: We investigated whether the feasibility of left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain (GLS) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) varies according to the methodology (e.g. endocardial vs. whole myocardial tracking techniques). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 111 consecutive patients with HCM (median age, 58 years; male, 68.5%) who underwent both transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (apical 29.7%, septal 33.3%, and diffuse or mixed 37.0%). TTE-whole myocardial and TTE-endocardial GLS were measured and compared in terms of association with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) extent and discrimination performance for extensive LGE (>15% of the LV myocardium). RESULTS: Although TTE-whole myocardial and TTE-endocardial GLS were significantly correlated, absolute TTE-endocardial GLS values (19.3 [16.2-21.9] %) were higher than TTE-whole myocardial GLS values (13.3[10.9-15.6] %, p<0.001). Both TTE-derived GLS parameters were significantly correlated with the LGE extent and independently associated with extensive LGE (odds ratio [OR] 1.30, p = 0.022; and OR 1.24, p = 0.013, respectively). Discrimination performance for extensive LGE was comparable between TTE-whole myocardial and TTE-endocardial GLS (area under the curve [AUC], 0.747 and 0.754, respectively, pdifference = 0.610). However, among patients with higher LV mass index (>70 g/m2), only TTE-whole myocardial GLS correlated with LGE extent and was independently associated with extensive LGE (OR 1.35, p = 0.042), while TTE-endocardial GLS did not. Additionally, TTE-whole myocardial GLS had better discrimination performance for extensive LGE than TTE-endocardial GLS (AUC, 0.705 and 0.668, respectively, pdifference = 0.006). CONCLUSION: TTE-derived GLS using either the endocardial or whole myocardial tracking technique is feasible in patients with HCM. However, in those with severe hypertrophy, TTE-whole myocardial GLS is better than TTE-endocardial GLS.

1067. Extra-pancreatic manifestations reported in association with pancreatitis; an international survey report.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Dike CR, Sun QK, Rahib L

1068. Magneto-optical trapping in a near-suface borehole.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Vovrosh J, Wilkinson K, Hedges S

1069. Improving wheat seedling quality through deep ploughing and soil compaction at sowing in lime concretion black soil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Cui X, Wang Z, Zhuang T

1070. Sustainability practices and organizational performance during the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis: A case of apparel and textile industry in Sri Lanka.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Weerasinghe N, Weerasinghe A, Perera Y

1071. Effects of a low-carbohydrate diet in adults with type 1 diabetes management: A single arm non-randomised clinical trial.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 11

Turton JL, Brinkworth GD, Parker HM

Public interest in low-carbohydrate (LC) diets for type 1 diabetes (T1D) management has increased. This study compared the effects of a healthcare professional delivered LC diet compared to habitual diets higher in carbohydrates on clinical outcomes in adults with T1D. Twenty adults (18-70 yrs) with T1D (≥6 months duration) with suboptimal glycaemic control (HbA1c>7.0% or >53 mmol/mol) participated in a 16-week single arm within-participant, controlled intervention study involving a 4-week control period following their habitual diets (>150 g/day of carbohydrates) and a 12-week intervention period following a LC diet (25-75 g/day of carbohydrates) delivered remotely by a registered dietitian. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c -primary outcome), time in range (blood glucose: 3.5-10.0 mmol/L), frequency of hypoglycaemia (<3.5 mmol/L), total daily insulin, and quality of life were assessed before and after the control and intervention periods. Sixteen participants completed the study. During the intervention period, there were reductions in total dietary carbohydrate intake (214 to 63 g/day; P<0.001), HbA1c (7.7 to 7.1% or 61 to 54 mmol/mol; P = 0.003) and total daily insulin use (65 to 49 U/day; P<0.001), increased time spent in range (59 to 74%; P<0.001), and improved quality of life (P = 0.015), with no significant changes observed during the control period. Frequency of hypoglycaemia episodes did not differ across timepoints, and no episodes of ketoacidosis or other adverse events were reported during the intervention period. These preliminary findings suggest that a professionally supported LC diet may lead to improvements in markers of blood glucose control and quality of life with reduced exogenous insulin requirements and no evidence of increased hypoglycaemia or ketoacidosis risk in adults with T1D. Given the potential benefits of this intervention, larger, longer-term randomised controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings. Trial Registration: https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12621000764831.aspx.

1072. Association between hyperlipidemia and trigger finger: A nationwide population-based cohort study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Chen PT, Zhang HW, Tsai ZR

1073. MicroRNA-29b-3p promotes intestinal permeability in IBS-D via targeting TRAF3 to regulate the NF-κB-MLCK signaling pathway.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Wang Y, Ke W, Gan J

Irritable bowel syndrome with predominant diarrhea (IBS-D) is characterized by increased intestinal permeability. Previous studies have shown that the microRNA-29 gene is involved in the regulation of intestinal permeability in patients with IBS-D. NF-κB was proved to play a key role in inflammatory response of intestine and resultant disruption of tight junction integrity, whose activity could be inhibited by TNF Receptor-Associated Factor 3 (TRAF3). However, the exact mechanism that induces increased intestinal permeability in IBS-D patients has not been clarified. In this study, we found that microRNA-29b‑3p (miR-29b-3p) was significantly upregulated, while TRAF3 was decreased and the NF-κB-MLCK pathway was activated within the colonic tissue of IBS-D patients. Subsequently, we confirmed the targeting relationship between miR-29b-3p and TRAF3 through a double-luciferase reporter assay. Lentivirus transfection of NCM460 cells with miR-29b-3p-overexpressing and -silencing vectors demonstrated that the expression of TRAF3 was negatively correlated with the level of miR-29b-3p. The NF-κB/MLCK pathway was activated in the miR-29b-3p-overexpressing group and inhibited to some extent in the miR-29b-3p-silencing group. Results in WT and miR-29 knockout mice showed that miR-29b-3p levels were increased, TRAF3 levels were decreased, and the NF-κB/MLCK signaling was activated in the WT IBS-D group as compared with the WT control group. The protein levels of TRAF3 and TJs in the miR-29b-/- IBS-D group were partially recovered and NF-κB/MLCK pathway indicators were, to a certain extent, decreased as compared with the WT IBS-D group. These results suggested that miR-29b-3p deletion enhances the TRAF3 level in IBS-D mice and alleviates the high intestinal permeability. In brief, through the analysis of intestinal tissue samples from IBS-D patients and miR-29b-/- IBS-D mice, we showed that miR-29b-3p is involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal hyperpermeability in IBS-D via targeting TRAF3 to regulate the NF-κB-MLCK signaling pathway.

1074. Retinoic acid alters metalloproteinase action in red deer antler stem cells.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Korzekwa AJ, Kononiuk A, Kordan W

1075. Physical activity and mental health experiences of people living with long term conditions during COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Ambrosio L, Morris J, Compton E

INTRODUCTION: Regular physical activity is a strategy that is effective in the physical management of long term conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic, led to disruption of physical activity routines for many people with long term conditions. It is important, to understand the experiences of people with long term conditions regarding physical activity during COVID-19 to enable future identification of strategies to mitigate the impact of restrictions on health. OBJECTIVE: To explore perceptions and experiences of people with long term conditions of the impact of the UK Government physical distancing restrictions on their physical activity participation during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A qualitative study, with in depth videoconference semi-structured interviews were conducted between January and April 2022, with 26 adults living with at least one long term condition in the UK. Data were managed in analytical matrices within Excel and data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Two main themes were developed, explaining how participants managed their physical activity during COVID19 lockdowns, and based on those experiences, what they considered should be in place should another lockdown occur:1) COVID-19 and physical activity: Losses, opportunities and adapting to new formats; and 2) Micro, meso, and macro contexts: creating the right conditions for physical activity support in future pandemics. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides information on how people with long term conditions managed their condition during the COVID-19 pandemic and generates new understanding of how physical activity routines changed. These findings will be used to inform stakeholder engagement meetings with individuals with long term conditions and local, regional, and national policy makers, to co-produce recommendations that will help people living with long term conditions remain active during and after COVID-19 and other pandemics.

1076. Intellectual conflicts of interest among cardiology and pulmonology clinical practice guidelines.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Brems JH, Wagner T, Diamant J

BACKGROUND: Intellectual conflicts of interest (COI), like financial COI, may threaten the validity and trustworthiness of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). However, comparatively little is known about intellectual COI in CPGs. This study sought to estimate the prevalence of intellectual COI and corresponding management strategies among cardiology and pulmonology CPGs. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective document review of CPGs published by cardiology or pulmonology professional societies from the United States, Canada, or Europe from 2018 to 2019 available via the Emergency Care Research Institute, Guidelines International Network, or Medscape databases. We assessed the percentage of authors with an intellectual COI, defined as i) authorship on a study reviewed by the CPG, ii) authorship of a prior editorial related to a CPG recommendation, or iii) authorship of a prior related CPG. Management strategies assessed included use of GRADE methodology, inclusion of a methodologist, and recusals due to intellectual COI. Outcomes were assessed overall and compared between cardiology and pulmonology CPGs. RESULTS: Among the 39 CPGs identified (14 cardiology, 25 pulmonology), there were a total of 737 authors, of whom 473 (64%) had at least one intellectual COI. Among all CPGs, a median of 67% (Interquartile Range 50%-76%) of authors had at least one intellectual COI, and COI was more prevalent among cardiology compared with pulmonology CPGs (84% vs 57%, p<0.001). There was variable use of management strategies among the CPGs, including use of GRADE methodology (64% of CPGs), inclusion of a methodologist (49%), and recusals due to intellectual COI (0%). CONCLUSION: Intellectual conflicts of interest appear to be highly prevalent and under-reported among cardiology and pulmonology CPGs, which may threaten their validity. Greater attention to and improved management of intellectual COI by CPG-producing organizations is needed.

1077. How informed is informed consent?-Evaluating the quality of informed consent among surgical patients in a tertiary care hospital in Nepal.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Basukala S, Shrestha O, Thapa N

BACKGROUND: Informed consent-taking is a part of clinical practice that has ethical and legal aspects attached to it. This protects the autonomy of the patients by providing complete information regarding the rationale, modality, potential risks, benefits, and alternatives of the planned procedure to the patients. This enables the patients to make the right decision for themselves and their care. This study aims to find out if the informed consent-taking process has ensured the active participation of the patients or the next of kin in the decision-making. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a prospective cross-sectional study conducted in a military healthcare institution among patients undergoing major surgical procedures from July 2022 to October 2022. Ethical clearance was obtained before the commencement of this study. A structured questionnaire was prepared, and the collected data was refined in Excel and imported into SPSS for analysis. RESULTS: A total of 350 individuals of mean age 47.95 ± 16.057 years were part of this study. The majority of the respondents were married, literate, and family by beneficiary category. All of the respondents received and signed the consent form. About 77% of the respondents read it completely, and 95.4% of them reported that it was understandable. The majority of the patients did not know who was going to perform the surgery, the alternatives to the planned treatment, the benefits of the surgery, or the outcome of non-treatment. On the patient satisfaction scale, 16.28% of the participants agreed that they were satisfied with the informed consent-taking process. CONCLUSION: Deficiencies in the informed consent-taking process were the lack of dissemination of adequate information on the nature, duration, pros and cons, post-operative state, and alternative of the planned procedure. A well-structured format of the consent form that is specific to a particular procedure should be adopted, and various alternatives to it must be disseminated to the patient or the next of kin to improve the quality of the informed consent-taking process.

1078. The global convergence properties of an adaptive QP-free method without a penalty function or a filter for minimax optimization.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Su K, Liu S, Lu W.

1079. Large-deviations of disease spreading dynamics with vaccination.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Feld Y, Hartmann AK.

1080. Anxiety classification in virtual reality using biosensors: A mini scoping review.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Mevlevioğlu D, Tabirca S, Murphy D.

1081. Does age matter?-Efficiency of mechanical food break down in Tupaia belangeri at different ages.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Schwermann AH, Schultz JA, Fuchs E

1082. Assessing microhabitat, landscape features and intraguild relationships in the occupancy of the enigmatic and threatened Andean tiger cat (Leopardus tigrinus pardinoides) in the cloud forests of northwestern Colombia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Cepeda-Duque JC, Andrade-Ponce G, Montes-Rojas A

1083. Classifying invasive lobular carcinoma as special type breast cancer may be reducing its treatment success: A comparison of survival among invasive lobular carcinoma, invasive ductal carcinoma, and no-lobular special type breast cancer.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Cosar R, Sut N, Topaloglu S

PURPOSE: The literature contains different information about the prognosis of invasive lobular carcinoma of breast cancer (BC). We aimed to address the inconsistency by comparatively examining the clinical features and prognosis of invasive lobular carcinoma patients in our university and to report our experience by dividing our patients into various subgroups. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Records of patients with BC admitted to Trakya University School of Medicine Department of Oncology between July 1999 and December 2021 were reviewed. The patients were divided into three groups (No-Special Type BC, Invasive Lobular Special Type BC, No-Lobular Special Type BC). Patient characteristics, treatment methods and oncological results are presented. Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Statistical significance of survival among the selected variables was compared by using the log-rank test. RESULTS: The patients in our study consisted of 2142 female and 15 male BC patients. There were 1814 patients with No-Special Type BC, 193 patients with Invasive Lobular Special Type BC, and 150 patients with No-Lobular Special Type BC. The duration of disease-free survival (DFS) was 226.5 months for the No-Special Type BC group, 216.7 months for the No-Lobular Special Type BC group, and 197.2 months for the Invasive Lobular Special Type BC group, whereas the duration of overall survival (OS) was 233.2 months for the No-Special Type BC group, 227.9 for the No-Lobular Special Type BC group, and 209.8 for the Invasive Lobular Special Type BC group. The duration of both DFS and OS was the lowest in the Invasive Lobular Special Type BC group. Multivariate factors that were significant risk factors for OS were Invasive Lobular Special Type BC histopathology (p = .045), T stage, N stage, stage, skin infiltration, positive surgical margins, high histological grade, and mitotic index. Modified radical mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and use of tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors for more than 5 years were significant protective factors for overall survival. CONCLUSION: The histopathological subgroup with the worst prognosis in our study was Invasive Lobular Special Type BC. Duration of DFS and OS were significantly shorter in Invasive Lobular Special Type BC than No-Lobular Special Type BC group. The classification of Invasive Lobular BC under the title of Special Type BC should be reconsidered and a more accurate treatment and follow-up process may be required.

1084. Comparative genomics and virulome analysis reveal unique features associated with clinical strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae from Trinidad, West Indies.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Pustam A, Jayaraman J, Ramsubhag A.

Klebsiella pneumoniae and Klebsiella quasipneumoniae are closely related human pathogens of global concern. The more recently described K. quasipneumoniae shares similar morphological characteristics with K. pneumoniae and is commonly misidentified as this species using traditional laboratory techniques. The vast mobilome in these pathogenic bacteria influences the dissemination of virulence factors in high-risk environments and it is, therefore, critical to monitor strains for developing effective clinical management strategies. Herein, this study utilized Illumina sequencing to characterize the whole genomes of nine clinical K. pneumoniae and one K. quasipneumoniae isolate obtained from patients of 3 major hospitals in Trinidad, West Indies. Reconstruction of the assembled genomes and implementation of several bioinformatic tools revealed unique features such as high pathogenicity islands associated with the isolates. The K. pneumoniae isolates were categorized as classical (n = 3), uropathogenic (n = 5), or hypervirulent (n = 1) strains. In silico multilocus sequence typing, and phylogenetic analysis showed that isolates were related to several international high-risk genotypes, including sequence types ST11, ST15, ST86, and ST307. Analysis of the virulome and mobilome of these pathogens showed unique and clinically important features including the presence of genes associated with Type 1 and Type 3 fimbriae, the aerobactin and yersiniabactin siderophore systems, the K2 and O1/2, and the O3 and O5 serotypes. These genes were either on or in close proximity to insertion sequence elements, phage sequences, and plasmids. Several secretion systems including the Type VI system and relevant effector proteins were prevalent in the local isolates. This is the first comprehensive study investigating the genomes of clinical K. pneumoniae and K. quasipneumoniae isolates from Trinidad, West Indies. The data presented illustrate the diversity of Trinidadian clinical K. pneumoniae isolates as well as significant virulence biomarkers and mobile elements associated with these isolates. Additionally, the genomes of the local isolates will add to global databases and thus can be used in future surveillance or genomic studies in this country and the wider Caribbean region.

1085. Identification of a partnership model between a university, for-profit, and not-for-profit organization to address health professions education and health inequality gaps through simulation-based education: A scoping review protocol.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Siraj S, Momand B, Brunton G

INTRODUCTION: Healthcare providers in rural and remote (R&R) areas of Canada do not have the same access to skills development and maintenance opportunities as those in urban areas. Simulation-based education (SBE) is an optimal technique to allow healthcare providers to develop and maintain skills. However, SBE is currently limited mainly to universities or hospital-based research laboratories in urban areas. The purpose of this scoping review is to identify a model, or components of a model, that outline how a university research laboratory can collaborate with a for profit and not-for-profit organization to facilitate the diffusion of SBE into R&R healthcare provider training. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This scoping review will be guided by the methodological framework introduced by Arksey and O'Malley in 2005 and the Methodology for Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Reviews. Ovid MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL will be searched for relevant articles published between 2000 and 2022, in addition to grey literature databases and manual reference list searches. Articles describing a partnership model or framework between academic institutions and non-profit organizations with a simulation or technology component will be included. Titles and abstracts will be screened, followed by a full-text screening of articles. Two reviewers will participate in the screening and data extraction process for quality assurance. Data will be extracted, charted, and summarized descriptively to report key findings on potential partnership models. CONCLUSION: This scoping review will provide an understanding on the extent of existing literature regarding the diffusion of simulators for healthcare provider training through a multi-institutional partnership. This scoping review will benefit R&R parts of Canada by identifying gaps in knowledge and determining a process to deliver simulators to train healthcare providers. Findings from this scoping review will be submitted for publication in a scientific journal.

1086. The possible molecular mechanism underlying the involvement of the variable shear factor QKI in the epithelial-mesenchymal transformation of oesophageal cancer.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Cui Y, Wu Y, Zhu Y

OBJECTIVE: Based on the GEO, TCGA and GTEx databases, we reveal the possible molecular mechanism of the variable shear factor QKI in epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) of oesophageal cancer. METHODS: Based on the TCGA and GTEx databases, the differential expression of the variable shear factor QKI in oesophageal cancer samples was analysed, and functional enrichment analysis of QKI was performed based on the TCGA-ESCA dataset. The percent-spliced in (PSI) data of oesophageal cancer samples were downloaded from the TCGASpliceSeq database, and the genes and variable splicing types that were significantly related to the expression of the variable splicing factor QKI were screened out. We further identified the significantly upregulated circRNAs and their corresponding coding genes in oesophageal cancer, screened the EMT-related genes that were significantly positively correlated with QKI expression, predicted the circRNA-miRNA binding relationship through the circBank database, predicted the miRNA-mRNA binding relationship through the TargetScan database, and finally obtained the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network through which QKI promoted the EMT process. RESULTS: Compared with normal control tissue, QKI expression was significantly upregulated in tumour tissue samples of oesophageal cancer patients. High expression of QKI may promote the EMT process in oesophageal cancer. QKI promotes hsa_circ_0006646 and hsa_circ_0061395 generation by regulating the variable shear of BACH1 and PTK2. In oesophageal cancer, QKI may promote the production of the above two circRNAs by regulating variable splicing, and these circRNAs further competitively bind miRNAs to relieve the targeted inhibition of IL-11, MFAP2, MMP10, and MMP1 and finally promote the EMT process. CONCLUSION: Variable shear factor QKI promotes hsa_circ_0006646 and hsa_circ_0061395 generation, and downstream related miRNAs can relieve the targeted inhibition of EMT-related genes (IL11, MFAP2, MMP10, MMP1) and promote the occurrence and development of oesophageal cancer, providing a new theoretical basis for screening prognostic markers of oesophageal cancer patients.

1087. Comparing the diagnostic performance of ordinary, mixed, and lasso logistic regression models at identifying opioid and cannabinoid poisoning in U.S. dogs using pet demographic and clinical data reported to an animal poison control center (2005-2014).

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Howard-Azzeh M, Pearl DL, O'Sullivan TL

Researchers have begun studying the impact of human opioid and cannabinoid use on dog populations. These studies have used data from an animal poison control center (APCC) and there are concerns that due to the illicit nature and social stigma concerning the use of these drugs, owners may not always be forthcoming with veterinarians or APCC staff regarding pet exposures to these toxicants. As a result, models derived from APCC data that examine the predictability of opioid and cannabinoid dog poisonings using pet demographic and health disorder information may help veterinarians or APCC staff more reliably identify these toxicants when examining or responding to a call concerning a dog poisoned by an unknown toxicant. The fitting of epidemiologically informed statistical models has been useful for identifying factors associated with various health conditions and as predictive tools. However, machine learning, including lasso regression, has many useful features as predictive tools, including the ability to incorporate large numbers of independent variables. Consequently, the objectives of our study were: 1) identify pet demographic and health disorders associated with opioid and cannabinoid dog poisonings using ordinary and mixed logistic regression models; and 2) compare the predictive performance of these models to analogous lasso logistic regression models. Data were obtained from reports of dog poisoning events collected by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' (ASPCA) Animal Poisoning Control Center, from 2005-2014. We used ordinary and mixed logistic regression models as well as lasso logistic regression models with and without controlling for autocorrelation at the state level to train our models on half the dataset and test their predictive performance on the remainder. Although epidemiologically informed logistic regression models may require substantial knowledge of the disease systems being investigated, they had the same predictive abilities as lasso logistic regression models. All models had relatively high predictive parameters except for positive predictive values, due to the rare nature of calls concerning opioid and cannabinoid poisonings. Ordinary and mixed logistic regression models were also substantially more parsimonious than their lasso equivalents while still allowing for the epidemiological interpretation of model coefficients. Controlling for autocorrelation had little effect on the predictive performance of all models, but it did reduce the number of variables included in lasso models. Several disorder variables were associated with opioid and cannabinoid calls that were consistent with the acute effects of these toxicants. These models may help build diagnostic evidence concerning dog exposure to opioids and cannabinoids, saving time and resources when investigating these cases.

1088. Analytical comparability to evaluate impact of manufacturing changes of ARX788, an Anti-HER2 ADC in late-stage clinical development.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Yu W, Ramprasad MP, Pal M

1089. Are people really less moral in their foreign language? Proficiency and comprehension matter for the moral foreign language effect in Russian speakers.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Kirova A, Tang Y, Conway P.

1090. Effects of SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO maize on western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte) larval feeding injury and adult life history parameters.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Reinders JD, Moar WJ, Head GP

Field-evolved resistance of the western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, to Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) proteins Cry3Bb1 and Cry34/35Ab1 (now classified as Gpp34Ab1/Tpp35Ab1) expressed in the pyramid SmartStax® has been documented in areas of the United States (U.S.) Corn Belt. SmartStax® PRO is a recently registered rootworm-active pyramid containing the same Bt proteins expressed in SmartStax® plus DvSnf7 dsRNA. Little to no published data is available comparing efficacy of the technologies or potential effects of dietary exposure on adult WCR fitness. Therefore, experiments were conducted to compare effects of adult WCR dietary exposure to SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO on life history parameters and efficacy of the technologies in the field with both Bt-susceptible and Bt-resistant WCR populations. WCR life history parameters evaluated included adult longevity, head capsule width, egg production, and egg viability. Results of small-plot field trials indicated that both technologies provided a high level of root protection when a Bt-susceptible WCR population was present. Root protection was reduced on SmartStax® but maintained on SmartStax® PRO when WCR Bt resistance occurred. Lifetime egg production was the key life history parameter that was significantly reduced when either Bt-susceptible or Bt-resistant adult WCR were fed SmartStax® or SmartStax® PRO diet. A potential fitness advantage was apparent as egg production was significantly higher in the Bt-resistant than Bt-susceptible population. The similar response by the Bt-susceptible WCR population to SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO indicates that results were caused by sublethal dietary exposure to Bt proteins. Adult size (males < females) and egg viability (high: >95%) were not significantly different among treatments but longevity results were inconsistent between years. Collectively, the field efficacy and life history parameter data expand existing knowledge of SmartStax® and SmartStax® PRO technologies, which will inform practical WCR resistance management programs.

1091. Psychological factors and production behaviors of Chinese undergraduate EFL learners.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Wang Z.

1092. Current and future costs of cancer attributable to insufficient leisure-time physical activity in Brazil.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Ferreira da Silva RC, Malhão TA, Rezende LFM

1093. Differentiated service delivery models for antiretroviral treatment refills in Northern Nigeria: Experiences of people living with HIV and health care providers-A qualitative study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Semo BW, Ezeokafor N, Adeyemi S

1094. Impact of the covid-19 pandemic on mental health and sexuality of female doctors.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

de Souza Ziegler N, Muller GC, Grossi FS

1095. Phase 1b study on the repurposing of meclizine hydrochloride for children with achondroplasia.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Matsushita M, Kitoh H, Mishima K

Achondroplasia (ACH) is a common skeletal dysplasia characterized by a disproportionately short stature. We found that meclizine, which is an over-the-counter drug for motion sickness, inhibited the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene using a drug repositioning strategy, and meclizine 1 and 2 mg/kg/day promoted bone growth in a mouse model of ACH. A previous phase 1a clinical trial for children with ACH demonstrated that a single dose of meclizine 25 and 50 mg was safe and that the simulated plasma concentration achieved steady state approximately 10 days after the first dose. The current study aimed to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of meclizine in children with ACH after a 14-day-repeated dose of meclizine. Twelve patients with ACH aged 5-10 years were enrolled. Meclizine 12.5 (cohort 1) and 25 mg/day (cohort 2) were administered after meals for 14 days, and adverse events (AEs) and PK were evaluated. No patient experienced serious AEs in either group. The average (95% confidential interval [CI]) maximum drug concentration (Cmax), peak drug concentration (Tmax), area under the curve (AUC) from 0 to 24 h, and terminal elimination half-life (t1/2) after a 14-day-repeated administration of meclizine (12.5 mg) were 167 (83-250) ng/mL, 3.7 (3.1-4.2) h, 1170 (765-1570) ng·h/mL, and 7.4 (6.7-8.0) h, respectively. The AUC0-6h after the final administration was 1.5 times that after the initial dose. Cmax and AUC were higher in cohort 2 than in cohort 1 in a dose-dependent manner. Regarding the regimen of meclizine 12.5 and 25 mg in patients < 20 kg and ≥ 20 kg, respectively, the average (95% CI) AUC0-24h was 1270 (1100-1440) ng·h/mL. Compartment models demonstrated that the plasma concentration of meclizine achieved at a steady state after the 14th administration. Long-term administration of meclizine 12.5 or 25 mg/day is recommended for phase 2 clinical trials in children with ACH.

1096. Absolute quantification of neuromelanin in formalin-fixed human brains using absorbance spectrophotometry.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Chand DA, Scadeng M, Dieriks BV.

Parkinson's disease is characterised by a visual, preferential degeneration of the pigmented neurons in the substantia nigra. These neurons are pigmented by neuromelanin which decreases in Parkinson's disease. Not much is known about NM as it is difficult to study and quantify, primarily due to its insolubility in most solvents except alkali. Neuromelanin quantification could progress the development of biomarkers for prodromal Parkinson's disease and provide insights into the presently unclear role of neuromelanin in Parkinson's disease aetiology. Light microscopy with stereology can visualise pigmented neurons, but it cannot quantify neuromelanin concentrations. Absolute neuromelanin quantification using absorbance spectrophotometry is reported in the literature, but the methodology is dated and only works with fresh-frozen tissue. We have developed a quantification protocol to overcome these issues. The protocol involves breakdown of fixed tissue, dissolving the tissue neuromelanin in sodium hydroxide, and measuring the solution's 350 nm absorbance. Up to 100 brain samples can be analysed in parallel, using as little as 2 mg of tissue per sample. We used synthetic neuromelanin to construct the calibration curve rather than substantia nigra neuromelanin. Our protocol enzymatically synthesises neuromelanin from dopamine and L-cysteine followed by high-heat ageing. This protocol enables successful lysis of the fixed substantia nigra tissue and quantification in three brains, with neuromelanin concentrations ranging from 0.23-0.55 μg/mg tissue. Quantification was highly reproducible with an interassay coefficient of variation of 6.75% (n = 5). The absorbance spectra and elemental composition of the aged synthetic neuromelanin and substantia nigra neuromelanin show excellent overlap. Our protocol can robustly and reliably measure the absolute concentration of neuromelanin in formalin-fixed substantia nigra tissue. This will enable us to study how different factors affect neuromelanin and provide the basis for further development of Parkinson's disease biomarkers and further research into neuromelanin's role in the brain.

1097. Prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors among Asian migrant workers in South Korea.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Bhandari P.

1098. SIRT1 and antioxidants in infertile females: Exploration of the role of vitamin D.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Alam F, Shahid M, Riffat S

BACKGROUND: Deficiency of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) can trigger inflammation, mitochondrial malfunctioning, and apoptosis through the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, producing poor quality oocytes, leading to infertility. Normal vitamin D (VD) levels promote SIRT1 activity required for optimal fertility, and low levels of either may result in fertility problems owing to cell-membrane de-stabilization, increased autophagy, DNA damage leading to increased reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, in this study, we want to estimate the levels of VD, SIRT1 and antioxidants (MnSOD; manganese superoxide dismutase, GR; glutathione reductase, visfatin) and oxidants (adrenaline & cortisol) in individuals living with infertility and explore the association of VD with SIRT1 expression (levels), antioxidants, and oxidants contributing to infertility in women. The significance of this study is that it highlights the importance of maintaining optimal levels of VD for reproductive health in females. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 342 (135 infertile and 207 fertile) female subjects. Serum levels of MnSOD, SIRT1, visfatin, GR, VD, adrenaline, and cortisol were analyzed by ELISA and were compared in fertile and infertile samples using the Mann Whitney U test. RESULTS: There were significantly high levels of VD, SIRT1, GR, MnSOD and visfatin in fertile female participants. However, mean adrenaline and cortisol levels were higher in infertile samples with a significant negative correlation with VD. A significant negative correlation of VD with MnSOD, SIRT1, visfatin and GR was observed (p <0.01). In VD subset groups, MnSOD levels were significantly high in VD sufficient groups however, adrenaline and cortisol levels were significantly high in groups suffering from VD deficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Deficiency of VD is associated with a decrease in SIRT1 and other antioxidants, which may deter natural reproductive functions leading to infertility. Further studies are required to determine the cause-effect relationship of VD deficiency on conception and interpretation of the involved mechanism.

1099. A physics-based model of swarming jellyfish.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Gengel E, Kuplik Z, Angel D

1100. Evaluation of first trimester maternal serum inhibin-A for preeclampsia screening.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Moungmaithong S, Kwan AH, Tse AW

BACKGROUND: International professional organizations recommend aspirin prophylaxis to women screened high risk for preterm preeclampsia (PE) in the first trimester. The UK Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) screening test for preterm PE using mean arterial pressure (MAP), uterine artery pulsatility index (UTPI) and placental growth factor (PlGF) was demonstrated to have lower detection rate (DR) in Asian population studies. Additional biomarkers are therefore needed in Asian women to improve screening DRs as a significant proportion of women with preterm and term PE are currently not identified. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate maternal serum inhibin-A at 11-13 weeks as an alternative to PlGF or as an additional biomarker within the FMF screening test for preterm PE. STUDY DESIGN: This is a nested case-control study using pregnancies initially screened at 11-13 weeks for preterm PE using the FMF triple test in a non-intervention study conducted between December 2016 and June 2018. Inhibin-A levels were retrospectively measured in 1,792 singleton pregnancies, 112 (1.7%) with PE matched for time of initial screening with 1,680 unaffected pregnancies. Inhibin-A levels were transformed to multiple of the expected median (MoM). The distribution of log10 inhibin-A MoM in PE and unaffected pregnancies and the association between log10 inhibin-A MoM and gestational age (GA) at delivery in PE were assessed. The screening performance determined by area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) and detection rates (DRs) at a 10% fixed false positive rate (FPR), for preterm and term PE was determined. All risks for preterm and term PE were based on the FMF competing risk model and Bayes theorem. Differences in AUC (ΔAUC) between different biomarker combinations were compared using the Delong test. McNemar's test was used to assess the off-diagonal change in screening performance at a fixed 10% FPR after adding inhibin-A or replacing PlGF in the preterm PE adjusted risk estimation model. RESULTS: Inhibin-A levels in unaffected pregnancies were significantly dependent on GA, maternal age and weight and were lower in parous women with no previous history of PE. Mean log10 inhibin-A MoM in any-onset PE (p<0.001), preterm (p<0.001) and term PE (p = 0.015) pregnancies were all significantly higher than that of unaffected pregnancies. Log10 inhibin-A MoM was inversely but not significantly correlated (p = 0.165) with GA at delivery in PE pregnancies. Replacing PlGF with inhibin-A in the FMF triple test reduced AUC and DR from 0.859 and 64.86% to 0.837 and 54.05%, the ΔAUC was not statistically significant. AUC and DR when adding inhibin-A to the FMF triple test were 0.814, 54.05% and the -0.045 reduction in AUC was statistically significant (p = 0.001). At a fixed 10% FPR, replacing PlGF with inhibin-A identified 1 (2.7%) additional pregnancy but missed 5 (13.5%) pregnancies which subsequently developed preterm PE identified by the FMF triple test. Adding inhibin-A missed 4 (10.8%) pregnancies and did not identify any additional pregnancies with preterm PE. CONCLUSION: Replacing PlGF by inhibin-A or adding inhibin-A as an additional biomarker in and to the FMF triple screening test for preterm PE does not improve screening performance and will fail to identify pregnancies that are currently identified by the FMF triple test.

1101. A new surgical tape with a mesh designed to prevent skin tears and reduce pain during tape removal.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Rikihisa N, Mitsukawa N, Rikhisa H

1102. Mild antecedent COVID-19 associated with symptom-specific post-acute sequelae.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Walker TA, Truong AD, Summers A

1103. The role of photobehaviour in sponge larval dispersal and settlement.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Whalan S.

Deciphering the behavioural ecology of adult (sessile) sponges is challenging. However, their motile larval stages afford opportunities to investigate how behaviour contributes to dispersal and selection of habitat. Light is a fundamental cue contributing to larval sponge dispersal where photoreceptive cells contribute to this process. But how universal is light as a cue to sponge larval dispersal and settlement? Behavioural choice experiments were used to test the effect of light on dispersal and settlement behaviours. Larvae of the tropical sponge species Coscinoderma mathewsi, Luffariella variabilis, Ircinia microconnulosa, and Haliclona sp., from deep (12-15 m) and shallower-water habitats (2-5 m), were used in experiments. Dispersal experiments provided a light-gradient-choice where light represented light attenuation with depth. Light treatments included white light and the spectral components of red and blue light. Settlement experiments comprised a choice between illuminated and shaded treatments. Fluorescence microscopy was used to establish the presence of fluorescent proteins associated with posterior locomotory cilia. Deeper-water species, C. mathewsi and I. microconnulosa discriminate light spectral signatures. Both species changed dispersal behaviour to light spectra as larvae aged. For C. mathewsi positive phototaxis to blue light changed to photophobic responses (all light treatments) after six hours and behaviours in I. microconnulosa changed from positive to negative phototaxis (white light) after six hours. L. variabilis, also a deeper-water species, was negatively phototactic to all light treatments. Larvae from the shallow-water species, Haliclona sp., moved towards all light wavelengths tested. There was no effect of light on settlement of the shallow-water Haliclona sp., but larvae in all three deeper-water species showed significantly higher settlement in shaded treatments. Fluorescence microscopy showed discrete fluorescent bands contiguous to posterior tufted cilia in all four species. These fluorescent bands may play a contributory role in larval photobehaviour.

1104. Construction and application of an applicability evaluation system for garlic planters based on fuzzy comprehensive evaluation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Song H, Dai X.

The widespread use of garlic planters has been hampered by the lack of comprehensive applicability evaluation criteria, as their functional and structural designs are sometimes subpar and their purchase and use are not always financially advantageous. In order to close this gap in the applicability evaluation system for garlic planters, a three-level index system based on Technical indicators, Economic indicators, and Working condition indicators was proposed in the current study. A fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method was then applied to achieve the evaluation with the help of an analytical hierarchy process and validity test. By providing basic descriptions, physical test results and specific calculation results to the consulted ten experts and collecting the scores for the 3rd level indicators, the first-generation garlic planter was analyzed for the practical application of the Pizhou-white garlic planting area based on the established applicability evaluation system. The evaluated score of 74.47 was towards the bottom of the "good" range. The findings also suggest that enhancing operational safety, implementing plant spacing and planting depth adjustments, enhancing ease of operation, and to some extent lowering capital cost will improve functional performance and economic performance. The upgraded machine was subsequently created using the optimization guidelines. Its applicability score was 77.52, representing a 4.1% gain over the original computer. It has reached the midpoint of the "good" range and has achieved the optimization goal. The proposed applicability evaluation system can generally draw unbiased conclusions and provide scientific evaluation methods for the promotion of garlic planters in specific areas, benefiting not only the design and improvement of garlic planters but also the purchasing and application of them. However, further indicator refinement and a more thorough evaluation method appear necessary before the evaluation system is made more widely available.

1105. Assigning harvested waterfowl to geographic origin using feather δ2H isoscapes: What is the best analytical approach?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Kusack JW, Tozer DC, Harvey KM

Establishing links between breeding, stopover, and wintering sites for migratory species is important for their effective conservation and management. Isotopic assignment methods used to create these connections rely on the use of predictable, established relationships between the isotopic composition of environmental hydrogen and that of the non-exchangeable hydrogen in animal tissues, often in the form of a calibration equation relating feather (δ2Hf) values derived from known-origin individuals and amount-weighted long-term precipitation (δ2Hp) data. The efficacy of assigning waterfowl to moult origin using stable isotopes depends on the accuracy of these relationships and their statistical uncertainty. Most current calibrations for terrestrial species in North America are done using amount-weighted mean growing-season δ2Hp values, but the calibration relationship is less clear for aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Our objective was to critically evaluate current methods used to calibrate δ2Hp isoscapes to predicted δ2Hf values for waterfowl. Specifically, we evaluated the strength of the relationships between δ2Hp values from three commonly used isoscapes and known-origin δ2Hf values three published datasets and one collected as part of this study, also grouping these data into foraging guilds (dabbling vs diving ducks). We then evaluated the performance of assignments using these calibrations by applying a cross-validation procedure. It remains unclear if any of the tested δ2Hp isoscapes better predict surface water inputs into food webs for foraging waterfowl. We found only marginal differences in the performance of the tested known-origin datasets, where the combined foraging-guild-specific datasets showed lower assignment precision and model fit compared to data for individual species. We recommend the use of the more conservative combined foraging-guild-specific datasets to assign geographic origin for all dabbling duck species. Refining these relationships is important for improved waterfowl management and contributes to a better understanding of the limitations of assignment methods when using the isotope approach.

1106. Innate attraction and aversion to odors in locusts.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Ray S, Sun K, Stopfer M.

1107. Eating disorders in weight-related therapy (EDIT): Protocol for a systematic review with individual participant data meta-analysis of eating disorder risk in behavioural weight management.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Jebeile H, Lister NB, Libesman S

The Eating Disorders In weight-related Therapy (EDIT) Collaboration brings together data from randomised controlled trials of behavioural weight management interventions to identify individual participant risk factors and intervention strategies that contribute to eating disorder risk. We present a protocol for a systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis which aims to identify participants at risk of developing eating disorders, or related symptoms, during or after weight management interventions conducted in adolescents or adults with overweight or obesity. We systematically searched four databases up to March 2022 and clinical trials registries to May 2022 to identify randomised controlled trials of weight management interventions conducted in adolescents or adults with overweight or obesity that measured eating disorder risk at pre- and post-intervention or follow-up. Authors from eligible trials have been invited to share their deidentified IPD. Two IPD meta-analyses will be conducted. The first IPD meta-analysis aims to examine participant level factors associated with a change in eating disorder scores during and following a weight management intervention. To do this we will examine baseline variables that predict change in eating disorder risk within intervention arms. The second IPD meta-analysis aims to assess whether there are participant level factors that predict whether participation in an intervention is more or less likely than no intervention to lead to a change in eating disorder risk. To do this, we will examine if there are differences in predictors of eating disorder risk between intervention and no-treatment control arms. The primary outcome will be a standardised mean difference in global eating disorder score from baseline to immediately post-intervention and at 6- and 12- months follow-up. Identifying participant level risk factors predicting eating disorder risk will inform screening and monitoring protocols to allow early identification and intervention for those at risk.

1108. Categorical consistency facilitates implicit learning of color-number associations.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Retter TL, Eraßmy L, Schiltz C.

1109. Economic value in the Brain: A meta-analysis of willingness-to-pay using the Becker-DeGroot-Marschak auction.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Newton-Fenner A, Hewitt D, Henderson J

1110. Augmented reality-based affective training for improving care communication skill and empathy.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Nakazawa A, Iwamoto M, Kurazume R

1111. Exposure to self-reported traumatic events and probable PTSD in a national sample of Poles: Why does Poland's PTSD prevalence differ from other national estimates?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Rzeszutek M, Dragan M, Lis-Turlejska M

1112. Contrastive multiple correspondence analysis (cMCA): Using contrastive learning to identify latent subgroups in political parties.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Fujiwara T, Liu TP.

1113. What does the demographic profile of convicts tell us about social equity in India?

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Mukhopadhyay P, Desouza S, Lolayekar AP.

1114. COVID-19 risk perception and public compliance with preventive measures: Evidence from a multi-wave household survey in the MENA region.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Abu Hatab A, Krautscheid L, Amuakwa-Mensah F.

1115. Association of plasma miRNAs with early life performance and aging in dairy cattle.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

MacLeay M, Banos G, Donadeu FX.

Early life performance traits in dairy cattle can have important influences on lifetime productivity. Poor health and fertility are of great economical and animal welfare concern. Circulating miRNAs have been linked to several livestock traits, including resistance to infection, fertility, and muscle development. This study aimed to identify circulating miRNAs associated with early life performance traits and aging in dairy cattle. Plasma samples from female calves (n = 12) identified retrospectively as differing in health, growth, and fertility outcomes prior to first calving were analyzed using PCR arrays detecting 378 miRNAs. Levels of 6 miRNAs differed significantly in calves with poor growth/fertility relative to controls (t-test: P<0.05). Additionally, general(ized) (non)linear mixed models identified 1 miRNA associated with average daily gain until weaning, 22 with live bodyweight at one year of age, 47 with age at first service, and 19 with number of infections before first calving. Out of 85 distinct miRNAs that were associated with at least one animal trait, 9 miRNAs were validated by RT-qPCR in a larger cohort (n = 91 animals), which included longitudinal plasma samples (calf, heifer, first lactation cow). Significant associations (P<0.05) involving individual miRNAs or ratios between miRNAs and early-life performance traits were identified, but did not retain significance after multiple testing adjustment. However, levels of 8 plasma miRNAs (miR-126-3p, miR-127, miR-142-5p, miR-154b, miR-27b, miR-30c-5p, miR-34a, miR-363) changed significantly with age, most prominently during the calf-to-heifer transition. Comparative RT-qPCR analyses of these miRNAs across 19 calf tissues showed that most were ubiquitously expressed. Online database mining identified several pathways involved in metabolism and cell signaling as putative biological targets of these miRNAs. These results suggest that miR-126-3p, miR-127, miR-142-5p, miR-154b, miR-27b, miR-30c-5p, miR-34a, miR-363 are involved in regulating growth and development from birth to first lactation (~2 years old) and could provide useful biomarkers of aging in cattle.

1116. Effects of heterozygous deletion of autism-related gene Cullin-3 in mice.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Xia QQ, Walker AK, Song C

1117. Development and validation of an environmental DNA assay to detect federally threatened groundwater salamanders in central Texas.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Adcock ZC, Adcock ME, Forstner MRJ.

The molecular detection of DNA fragments that are shed into the environment (eDNA) has become an increasingly applied tool used to inventory biological communities and to perform targeted species surveys. This method is particularly useful in habitats where it is difficult or not practical to visually detect or trap the target organisms. Central Texas Eurycea salamanders inhabit both surface and subterranean aquatic environments. Subterranean surveys are challenging or infeasible, and the detection of salamander eDNA in water samples is an appealing survey technique for these situations. Here, we develop and validate an eDNA assay using quantitative PCR for E. chisholmensis, E. naufragia, and E. tonkawae. These three species are federally threatened and constitute the Septentriomolge clade that occurs in the northern segment of the Edwards Aquifer. First, we validated the specificity of the assay in silico and with DNA extracted from tissue samples of both target Septentriomolge and non-target amphibians that overlap in distribution. Then, we evaluated the sensitivity of the assay in two controls, one with salamander-positive water and one at field sites known to be occupied by Septentriomolge. For the salamander-positive control, the estimated probability of eDNA occurrence (ψ) was 0.981 (SE = 0.019), and the estimated probability of detecting eDNA in a qPCR replicate (p) was 0.981 (SE = 0.011). For the field control, the estimated probability of eDNA occurring at a site (ψ) was 0.938 (95% CRI: 0.714-0.998). The estimated probability of collecting eDNA in a water sample (θ) was positively correlated with salamander relative density and ranged from 0.371 (95% CRI: 0.201-0.561) to 0.999 (95% CRI: 0.850- > 0.999) among sampled sites. Therefore, sites with low salamander density require more water samples for eDNA evaluation, and we determined that our site with the lowest estimated θ would require seven water samples for the cumulative collection probability to exceed 0.95. The estimated probability of detecting eDNA in a qPCR replicate (p) was 0.882 (95% CRI: 0.807-0.936), and our assay required two qPCR replicates for the cumulative detection probability to exceed 0.95. In complementary visual encounter surveys, the estimated probability of salamanders occurring at a known-occupied site was 0.905 (SE = 0.096), and the estimated probability of detecting salamanders in a visual encounter survey was 0.925 (SE = 0.052). We additionally discuss future research needed to refine this method and understand its limitations before practical application and incorporation into formal survey protocols for these taxa.

1118. Expression analysis of box C/D snoRNAs with SNPs between C57BL/6 and MSM/Ms strains in male mouse.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Saito R, Otsu M, Kiyosawa H

1119. Establishment of the lymphoid ETS-code reveals deregulated ETS genes in Hodgkin lymphoma.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Nagel S, Meyer C, Pommerenke C.

1120. Deep audio embeddings for vocalisation clustering.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Best P, Paris S, Glotin H

1121. Validation of a French version of the Breakthrough Pain Assessment Tool in cancer patients: Factorial structure, reliability and responsiveness.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Perceau-Chambard E, Roche S, Tricou C

OBJECTIVE: Breakthrough cancer pain should be properly assessed for better-personalized treatment plan. The Breakthrough Pain Assessment Tool is a 14-item tool validated in English developed for this purpose; no French version is currently available and validated. This study aimed to translate it in French and assess the psychometric properties of a French version of the Breakthrough Pain Assessment Tool (BAT-FR). METHODS: First, translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the 14 items (9 ordinal and 5 nominal) of the original BAT tool in French language was made. Second, assessments of validity (convergent, divergent and discriminant validity), factorial structure (exploratory factor analysis) and test-retest reliability of the 9 ordinal items were done with data of 130 adult cancer patients suffering from breakthrough pain in a hospital-academic palliative care center. Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of total and dimension scores derived from these 9 items were also assessed. Acceptability of the 14 items was also assessed on the 130 patients. RESULTS: The 14 items had good content and face validity. Convergent and divergent validity, discriminant validity and test-retest reliability of the ordinal items were acceptable. Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of total and dimensions derived from ordinal items were also acceptable. The factorial structure of the ordinal items had two dimensions similar to the original version: "1-pain severity and impact" and "2-pain duration and medication". Items 2 and 8 had a low contribution to the dimension 1 they were assigned and item 14 clearly changed of dimension compared with the original tool. The acceptability of the 14 items was good. CONCLUSION: The BAT-FR has shown acceptable validity, reliability and responsiveness supporting its use for assessing breakthrough cancer pain in French-speaking populations. Its structure needs nevertheless further confirmation.

1122. Multi-objective sustainable supply chain network optimization based on chaotic particle-Ant colony algorithm.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Zhang T, Xie W, Wei M

1123. Prevalence and associated factors of pediatric hypertension in Jazan region, south of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A pilot cross-sectional study.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

El-Setouhy M, Safhi AM, Dallak MY

Hypertension (HTN) is a primary global health concern. Moreover, according to the 2010 Global Burden of Disease, hypertension accounted for roughly a quarter of cardiovascular disease fatalities and 1.9 percent of all deaths in Saudi Arabia in 2010. Also, hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, morbidity, and mortality. However, assessing blood pressure (BP) and preventing hypertension among children and adolescents has become a global priority. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hypertension among children in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Also, to determine the common risk factors associated with pediatric hypertension. We conducted this cross-sectional study among boys and girls aged 6-14 years visiting Al-Rashid Mall, one of the two main malls in Jazan city, the capital of Jazan region, Saudi Arabia, between November 2021 and January 2022. We included children willing to participate in the study after obtaining their parents' consent and children's assent. We used a standardized questionnaire to interview the parents to collect the children's data. We also measured the children's resting BP. Then we classified the measurements according to the updated International Pediatric Hypertension Association (IPHA) chart. We also measured the height and weight of the children and calculated their BMI. We used SPSS version 25 for the data entry and analysis. Our results showed that the prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension was insignificantly higher in females (11.84% and 12.65%) compared to males (11.52% and 11.52%), respectively. Our participants' main associated factors with prehypertension and hypertension were overweight, obesity, and family income. Pediatric hypertension and prehypertension were highly prevalent in Jazan region. Therefore, being overweight and obese should be considered risk factors for pediatric hypertension. Our study emphasizes the need for early intervention to prevent pediatric HTN, particularly among overweight and obese children.

1124. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among patients of a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, PR China.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Guan YB, Sun XX, Chen SL

1125. Surface-Framework structure: A neural network structure for weakening gridding effect in PCB mark-point semantic segmentation.

PLoS One

2023 Jul 10

Wang Y, Song J, Wang S

Newmer生物

Newmer生物