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Resistance training and ursolic acid consumption affect hepatokines in aged diabetic rat liver

Author Response: Challenges in Implementing High Protein Nutrition for ICU Patients

The impact of maternal gum disease on pregnancy outcomes using PRAMS data

Background Gum disease during pregnancy is not just a dental issue but a significant public health concern with potential implications for maternal and child health. This study aims to estimate the national prevalence of gum disease among pregnant women and examine the association of maternal gum disease during pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes. Methods A retrospective case-control study used the PRAMS (phase 8, 2016–2020) dataset. Propensity score matching was employed to match cases in a 1:3 ratio. Logistic regression was used to test the associations between maternal gum disease, low birth weight, and small gestational age. Results The study revealed a prevalence rate of 207 cases per 100,000 pregnant women. Notable differences were observed, with higher prevalence rates among younger women (20–24 yrs), racial minorities (Black women), and those with lower educational attainment (9–12 grade, no diploma). Maternal gum disease was associated with an increased risk of small for gestational age (SGA) and falls below the 10th percentile (OR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.56–3.75, p < 0.001), having babies with birthweight below 2500g are 3.51 times higher (OR = 3.51, 95% CI: 2.39–5.16, p < 0.001) compared to those who do not have gum disease. Conclusion The complex relationship between maternal oral health and adverse pregnancy outcomes necessitates immediate and comprehensive research to understand and address this issue, highlighting the immediate need for action to prevent potential health risks.

Cardiovascular safety of propranolol oral solution in infantile hemangiomas: a disproportionality analysis based on the FAERS database

Abstract This study aims to explore the potential association between propranolol and cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) through real-world evidence. Reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database spanning from January 2014 to September 2024, identifying propranolol oral solution as the primary suspected (PS) drug, were analyzed. Disproportionality analysis employed four key metrics: Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and Multi-item Gamma-Poisson Shrinkage (MGPS) to identify positive signals of cardiovascular AEs potentially associated with propranolol oral solution. Among 7,518 AE reports where propranolol oral solution was the PS drug, 196 cardiovascular AEs were identified. Peripheral coldness (n = 131, ROR 85.58, PRR 84.11), cyanosis (n = 24, ROR 15.91, PRR 15.87), and pallor (n = 12, ROR 3.79, PRR 3.79) were potentially associated with propranolol oral solution use. However, no positive signals were observed for other cardiovascular AEs, such as hypotension, bradycardia, or arrhythmias. Apart from peripheral vascular changes, our analysis did not detect positive signals for severe cardiovascular AEs, suggesting a favorable cardiovascular safety profile, though FAERS limitations such as underreporting warrant cautious interpretation. To ensure safety, standardized use and monitoring remain crucial.

The Sleep Quality of Intensive Care Unit Patients on Noninvasive Ventilation Depends Not Only on Non-invasive ventilation- and ICU-related Factors, but Also on Numerous Other Factors

Use of female-controlled dual protection methods among adolescent girls and young women living with HIV in Northern Uganda: A convergent mixed-methods study

Background Adolescent girls and young women living with HIV (AGYWLHIV) in Uganda face dual risks of HIV transmission to male partners and unintended pregnancies. Male condoms require male partner cooperation. Female-controlled dual protection methods (FCDPM) offer a potential solution by enabling AGYWLHIV to independently manage their sexual and reproductive health. This study assessed the prevalence of dual protection methods (DPMs), identified factors influencing their use, and explored reasons for non-use among AGYWLHIV in northern Uganda. Methods A parallel convergent mixed-methods study was conducted among the AGYWLHIV attending antiretroviral therapy services at six public health facilities in Lira City and Lira District between November 2022 and April 2023. Participants were asked about the methods they were using to simultaneously prevent unintended pregnancy and HIV transmission. If not using any dual protection method, why not? Quantitative data on DPM prevalence and associated factors were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data on non-use reasons were thematically analysed. Results Among the 423 participants (median age 22 years), no one reported using the FCDPM, while only 1.2% used any form of DPM. Male condoms alone were used by 29.3% of the participants. The few who used the DPM combined the use of the male condoms with oral contraceptive pills, emergency contraceptive pills, IUD or implants. Factors positively influencing the DPM use included marital status, prior condom use, and knowledge of safer conception methods. Barriers included personal or partner disapproval of the modern contraceptives, lack of contraceptive knowledge or misconceptions, fear of contraceptive side effects or stigma, desire to conceive, and sole reliance on the male condoms. Conclusions The findings highlight a critical gap in FCDPM uptake and the low prevalence of DPM use among AGYWLHIV. Strengthening health education on modern contraception, addressing misconceptions, and reducing fears about contraceptive side effects or stigma could improve DPM acceptance and uptake in this population.

A framework for assessing grey multitasking effectiveness of satellite communication constellation

A syllable-character collaborative model for enhanced Pinyin and Chinese recognition

In Chinese speech recognition, end-to-end speech recognition models usually use Chinese characters as direct output and perform poorly compared with other language models. The main reason for this phenomenon is that the relationship between Chinese text and pronunciation is more complex. Inspired by the learning process of Chinese beginners, who first master initials, finals, and pinyin before learning characters, we propose the Syllable-Character Collaborative Model (SCCM), which incorporates these phonetic elements into the training process. Additionally, we design a Pinyin-Ensemble module that employs an ensemble learning approach to reduce pinyin recognition errors, which in turn leads to a reduction in text recognition errors. Experiments on AISHELL-1 show that our approach not only reduces pinyin and character error rates compared to a prior end-to-end method using pinyin as auxiliary information, but also achieves a 45.7% relative reduction in Character Error Rate (CER) over the AISHELL-1 baseline.

Morin combined with meropenem is a potent inhibitor of NDM-1 against NDM-1-producing E. coli

Epidemiological characteristics and management of Gram-negative bacteraemia in different immunocompromised hosts: Observational single-center study

Importance Patients with Gram-negative bloodstream infections (GN-BSI) are classified as non-immunocompromised (n-IC) or immunocompromised (IC). However, immunosuppressive condition should not be considered univocally. Objective To investigate epidemiological characteristics, management and outcome of GN-BSI in IC and non-IC patients. Methods Retrospective single-center study of hospitalized patients with GN-BSI conducted over a 7-year period. Patients with GN-BSI were divided in: solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, patients with hematologic malignancy (HM), patients with metastatic solid cancer (mSC), and non-major IC patients (nm-IC). Results 3544 patients analysed: 76.7% nm-IC, 6.5% SOT, 8.0% HM and 8.8% mSC. SOT and HM patients were younger (SOT: 56.6 ± 13.1 years; HM: 56.4 ± 14.5; nm-IC: 72.4 ± 16.1; mSC: 68.6 ± 13.1, p < 0.001) and had lower CCI value (SOT: 4.5 ± 2.4; HM: 4.1 ± 2.1; nm-IC: 5.5 ± 2.6; mSC: 9.7 ± 2.5, p < 0.001). Urinary tract infection was the most common source of BSI in nm-IC (nm-IC: 50.1%, HM:15%; SOT: 33.3%; mSC: 25.9%, p < 0.001), intra-abdominal infection was the more frequent source among SOT and mSC (SOT:42.3%; mSC: 49.3%, nm-IC: 27.8%, HM:29%; p < 0.001). Primary BSI was the first cause of GN-BSI in HM (HM: 62.1%; SOT: 18.5%; nm-IC: 17.2%; mSC: 10.6%, p < 0.001). The lowest rate of death was observed in SOT and the highest in mSC (SOT 8.2%; nm-IC 13.4%; HM 14.9%; mSC 19.9%, p < 0.001). Relapse rate was highest in SOT (SOT: 18.8%; HM: 11.8%; NMIC: 7.2%; aST: 7.1%, p < 0.001). Follow-up bloodcultures were associated with a lower mortality only among NMIC (HR = 0.317, 95% CI 0.178–0.563, p < 0.001) and aST (HR = 0.198, 95% CI 0.058–0.673, p = 0.010). The role of treatment duration on relapse was not evident in any group, conversely receiving at least 7 days of treatment was associated with a lower risk of 90-day mortality in SOT and HM patients. Conclusions The characteristics and outcome of GN-BSI are peculiar between specific IC categories, therefore a personalized management should be implemented.

The addition of sweetness reduces aversion to high salt concentrations in patients with chronic kidney disease

Abstract Reducing salt intake is crucial for managing hypertension. While efforts to reduce salt intake are based on the assumption that people have a preference for salt, it is also important to acknowledge that there is an aversion to high levels of salt. A recent study has highlighted that not only the taste recognition but also the aversion to high salt were altered in CKD patients. However, the effect of combining various tastes on this aversion is still unclear. This study examined how adding sweetness affects salt aversion in CKD patients. A taste test was conducted on 100 healthy volunteers and 66 CKD patients using filter paper impregnated with varying concentrations of NaCl, sucrose, tartaric acid, and quinine hydrochloride. The aversion threshold was defined as the lowest concentration perceived as unpleasant. We measured aversion thresholds for combinations of sweet with salty, sour, and bitter tastes. Aversion to salt, sour, and bitter tastes increased with concentration. However, 44% of healthy subjects and 79% of CKD patients showed no aversion to high salt. Adding sweetness significantly reduced salt aversion, with 52% of healthy subjects and 92.4% of CKD patients showing no aversion to high salt. Sweetness slightly reduced aversion to sour tastes but had no effect on bitter taste in either group. Sweetness reduces aversion to high salt in both healthy individuals and CKD patients. To limit salt intake, not only should salt content be reduced, but excessive sweetness should also be avoided, as it lowers salt aversion.

The application of CBL and mind mapping combined with Mini-CEX teaching mode in the cultivation of clinical competence of ultrasound residents

Objective This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the Mini Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) in conjunction with Case-Based Learning (CBL) and mind mapping methodologies in fostering the clinical competencies of ultrasound residents. Methods A cohort of forty-two general practitioners who underwent standardized training at the Department of Ultrasound Medicine at Tianyou Hospital, affiliated with Wuhan University of Science and Technology, from December 1, 2022 to December 1, 2024, were selected for this research. These practitioners were randomly assigned to either an experimental group or a control group using a random number table. The experimental group engaged in training utilizing the Mini-CEX combined with CBL and mind mapping approach, whereas the control group adhered to a traditional training regimen. Subsequently, comparative analyses were conducted on theoretical and practical test scores as well as clinical teaching satisfaction ratings between the two groups. Additionally, variations in Mini-CEX evaluation scores for the experimental group were assessed at admission, after two weeks, and after four weeks of training. Results The training approach that integrated Mini-CEX with CBL and mind mapping demonstrated significantly superior outcomes compared to the traditional training method regarding theoretical and practical performance, as well as teaching satisfaction, with statistically significant differences noted (p < 0.05). A comparison of Mini-CEX scores among 21 general practitioners at two and four weeks post-training versus admission yielded statistically significant results (p < 0.05). Conclusion The amalgamation of Mini-CEX with CBL and mind mapping methodologies markedly enhances the instructional effectiveness of standardized resident training.

Undergraduates short form video addiction and learning burnout association involving anxiety symptoms and coping styles moderation

Abstract The proliferation of short-form videos on social media has become a ubiquitous aspect of contemporary life. However, the pervasive use of these videos may potentially give rise to an addiction-like phenomenon. College students, in particular, have emerged as a significant demographic engaging with short-form videos, prompting a growing interest among scholars in understanding the potential implications of this phenomenon. This study aimed to examine the relationship and mechanism of action between short-form video addiction, anxiety symptoms, coping styles, and learning burnout among college students. The sample was obtained through convenience sampling, and the study utilized data from 523 college students. All variables were measured using empirical questionnaire instruments, and all the instruments had good reliability. Regression analysis was used to test the mediating effect of anxiety symptoms between short-form video addiction and learning burnout. PROCESS macro v3.5 for SPSS (Model 5) was adopted to test the moderated mediation. Results indicated that short-form video addiction was positively and significantly associated with both learning burnout and anxiety symptoms, and that anxiety symptoms mediated the relationship between short-form video addiction and learning burnout. Furthermore, negative coping styles significantly weakened the association between short-form video addiction and learning burnout. These results suggest that educational interventions should integrate digital literacy programs with mental health services to reduce the impact of addiction and provide targeted training in positive coping strategies to prevent learning burnout.

Peritonsillar abscess in children: A retrospective analysis on surgical and antimicrobial approaches

Background Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a prevalent infection for specialists in otorhinolaryngology and pediatric primary care providers, that has the potential to cause severe complications. The aim of this study is to investigate the surgical treatment of pediatric peritonsillar abscesses and to compare the risk profiles of bilateral surgery versus surgery on the affected side alone. In addition, the evaluation of the microbiological smears obtained intraoperatively should provide information on whether the calculated antibiotic therapy adequately covers the microbial spectrum. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of pediatric patients (n = 150), who were treated for PTA between 2009 and 2024 by unilateral tonsillectomy (UTE) or bilateral tonsillectomy (BTE). Patient charts were analyzed regarding risk of bleeding, occurrence of other complications, recurrence rates in case of UTE as well as microbiological flora and antibiotic treatment. Results Postoperative bleeding did not differ significantly between both groups. In 4.4% of the patients treated by UTE a recurrent PTA was found. No other severe complications after surgical treatment were found. Antibiotic treatment mainly relied on Cefuroxime and Ampicillin-Sulbactam, which is in accordance with the detected microbiological flora. Conclusions No relevant differences were found with regard to the complication rate between UTE und BTE in pediatric patients. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were used in accordance with the detected microbiological flora. Since 2019, calculated antibiotic therapy with Ampicillin-Sulbactam has been the treatment of choice for pediatric PTA.

Autonomous screening of infants at high risk for neurodevelopmental impairments using a radar sensor and machine learning

Correction: Research on simulation of permanent magnet synchronous motor in full speed range

Correction: Hazardous waste management practices among healthcare workers in Gondar City, Ethiopia

Mapping the effective coverage of modern contraceptive services in Ethiopia

Introduction Modern contraceptive services are vital for reducing maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. However, in Ethiopia, the effective coverage (quality-adjusted coverage) of these services remains low and varies significantly across administrative regions. Despite these disparities, the spatial distribution of effective coverage is not well understood, limiting the ability to implement targeted interventions in areas with low coverage. Methods We used the 2019 Ethiopia Demographic Health Survey (EMDHS) to estimate the crude coverage of modern contraceptive services. In addition, we used the 2021–2022 Ethiopia Services Provision Assessment (ESPA) to estimate the quality of modern contraceptive services provision. The two datasets were linked using the Euclidean buffer link method to estimate the effective coverage. The effective coverage was calculated as the product of coverage and quality estimates for each health facility. The geospatial estimates were presented using the coordinates from the ESPA survey. We analysed the spatial distribution of modern contraceptive coverage using ArcGIS 10.7 software. The Global Moran’s I statistic was used to assess the spatial autocorrelation, while the Getis-Ord Gi* statistic was used to identify high and low clusters. The Kriging interpolation method was used to estimate effective coverage in unsampled areas based on sampled clusters. Results The effective coverage of modern contraceptive services in Ethiopia was 20% (95% confidence interval (CI): 19.87, 21.82), which was notably lower than the crude coverage of 30% (95% CI: 28.93, 31.62), resulting in a gap of 10% points. The spatial distribution analysis showed that effective modern contraceptive coverage had a significant spatial autocorrelation in Ethiopia, with the Global Moran’s index value of 1.92 (p-value < 0.001). The effective coverage of modern contraceptive services was notably higher in Central Amhara, Western Amhara, Central Oromia, the western part of South West Ethiopia, Sidama, and the northern part of the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples (SNNP). Addis Ababa, western Amhara, northeast Benishangul-Gumuz, eastern part of South West Ethiopia, north SNNP, Sidama, and northern and central Oromia had hotspots for effective coverage of modern contraceptives. On the other hand, Afar, western Gambela, western Oromia, western Benishangul-Gumuz, Dire Dawa, Harari and Somali had cold spots for effective coverage of modern contraceptive services. Conclusions There is a significant spatial variation in the effective coverage of modern contraceptive services in Ethiopia. Afar, western Gambela, western Oromia, western Benishangul-Gumuz, Dire Dawa, Harari, and Somali had low effective coverage. To enhance equitable access, policymakers should prioritise interventions such as improving healthcare infrastructure and strengthening service delivery to improve modern contraceptive coverage and quality in underserved areas.

Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes improve vascular remodeling by inhibiting EGFR/ErbB2 heterodimerization in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension

Employee engagement mediates person-environment fit and new employees’ innovative behavior: A multidimensional perspective

New employees can bring new perspectives and vitality to the organization. Creating a suitable environment for new employees to innovate, maintain their work enthusiasm, and stimulate their innovative behavior is an important research topic. This study focused on recent college graduates and included 893 valid samples collected from Chongqing, China. A structural equation model was constructed from a multidimensional perspective to explore the mediating role of employee engagement between person-environment fit and new employees’ innovative behavior. The results show that person organization fit, needs supplies fit, and demands abilities fit can directly increase new employees’ innovative behavior; Emotional and behavioral engagement mediate the relationship between person organization fit and needs supplies fit on innovative behavior, and behavioral and cognitive engagement mediate the relationship between demands abilities fit on innovative behavior. This provides practical suggestions for enterprise managers on effectively promoting employees’ innovative behavior and leading enterprises to realize sustainable development.