Rank Correlation Research Articles

Features of structural and functional changes of the brain in patients with schizophrenia

Aim. To establish the features of structural and functional changes in the brain in patients with schizophrenia.Materials and methods. A morphometric analysis of the brain using MRI scans was performed, along with a clinical assessment of the electroencephalogram (EEG) of 35 patients with schizophrenia (20 men and 15 women). The control group included 18 healthy sex- and age-matched individuals (10 men and 8 women). Statistical processing was carried out using the χ2 test, the Fisher’s exact test, and the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.Results. Compared to the control group, patients with schizophrenia were significantly more likely to show signs of ventricular dilation (p = 0.039), asymmetry of the lateral ventricles (p = 0.041), periventricular edema (p < 0.001), and enlargement of the subarachnoid space of the cerebellum (p = 0.004). Changes (class >1A) in the functional activity of the brain in the group of patients with schizophrenia were detected in 65.7% of the cases. In more than half of the cases, patients with schizophrenia showed decreased bioelectric activity of the brain (class 2 in 48.6% and class 3 in 11.4%); at the same time, EEG signs of paroxysmal activity were detected in a few patients (class B in 11.4% and class C in 5.7%) (p < 0.001). A statistically significant direct correlation was found between the enlargement of the subarachnoid space of the cerebellum and paroxysmal EEG activity in patients with schizophrenia (r = 0.377; p = 0.044).Conclusion. The findings of our study highlight that the combined use of MRI and EEG can provide important information about brain pathology in schizophrenia. The data obtained are also important for testing the hypothesis on the association between vascular and functional disorders of the brain in patients with schizophrenia.

A cross-sectional study of the association between dietary inflammatory index and glaucoma prevalence in a US population.

To assess the relationship between dietary inflammatory index (DII) and prevalence of glaucoma among individuals aged 40y and above in the United States. Participants were drawn from 2 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2005-2008) for a cross-sectional study. DII was calculated from 24-hour dietary recall questionnaire conducted by experienced researchers and data analyzed in R according to the NHANES user guide, "Stratified Multi-stage Probability Sampling". The relationship between DII and glaucoma was evaluated by multi-factor logistic regression analysis and the existence of a non-linear association examined by restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis. A total of 5359 subjects were included and the cross-sectional analysis weighted to represent the US population of 109 million. DII was elevated in glaucoma patients (P<0.001) and smoking and alcohol use contributed to significant differences (P<0.001). DII correlated negatively with Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015 (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, r=-0.49). RCS analysis showed a linear relationship between DII and glaucoma risk (P of non-linear relationship =0.575). An increased DII is strongly associated with high risk of glaucoma and diet-induced inflammation should be controlled to delay glaucoma progression.

Test-retest reliability of the Arabic version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.

This study aimed to assess the test-retest reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (A-PSQI), a 19-item sleep evaluation tool, in a population of medical students and interns in Saudi Arabia. Following a 16-person pilot study, 202 participants completed 2 A-PSQI questionnaires with a 2-week test-retest interval to avoid a carryover effect. Statistical analysis using RStudio included Cronbach alpha, Spearman rank correlation, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The ICC results showed moderate to strong correlations in most PSQI components. The "Sleep efficiency" component had the lowest ICC (0.460), while "Sleep latency" had the highest (0.730). Overall, the PSQI reliability score is 0.694. Gender (sex assigned at birth) and academic level had no significant impact on the PSQI scores. The sleep quality categories (poor quality, good quality, and acute sleep disturbance) remained stable over time. The A-PSQI demonstrates varying internal consistency across components, with some displaying lower reliability. Nevertheless, it exhibits moderate to strong reliability, and the study confirms the stability of sleep quality categories over time among medical students and interns. This serves as a final validation step to set the stage for large-scale research in the region. This pioneering study is the first test-retest reliability investigation of the A-PSQI, addressing a critical gap in sleep assessment tools tailored to clinical practices in Arabic-speaking communities. It follows the pathway set by previous studies and serves to validate the A-PSQI in this demographic, providing a vital foundation for more catered sleep medicine in the region, targeting better reach to overlooked monolinguals. These findings advance our understanding of sleep quality among medical trainees and contribute to the development of culturally relevant sleep assessment tools.

Multi-Omics Insights into Rumen Microbiota and Metabolite Interactions Regulating Milk Fat Synthesis in Buffaloes.

The present study was conducted to analyze the correlation between the milk fat content of Binglangjiang buffaloes and their microbial and host metabolites. The 10 buffaloes with the highest milk fat content (HF, 5.60 ± 0.61%) and the 10 with the lowest milk fat content (LF, 1.49 ± 0.13%) were selected. Their rumen fluid and plasma were collected for rumen microbiota and metabolome analysis. The results showed that the rumen bacteria abundance of Synergistota, Quinella, Selenomonas, and Fretibacterium was significantly higher in the HF buffaloes. The abundance of 14 rumen fungi, including Candida, Talaromyces, Cyrenella, and Stilbella, was significantly higher in the HF buffaloes. The analysis of the metabolites in the rumen and plasma showed that several metabolites differed between the HF and LF buffaloes. A total of 68 and 42 differential metabolites were identified in the rumen and plasma, respectively. By clustering these differential metabolites, most of those clustered in the HF group were lipid and lipid-like molecules such as secoeremopetasitolide B, lucidenic acid J LysoPE (0:0/18:2 (9Z, 12Z)), and 5-tetradecenoic acid. Spearman's rank correlations showed that Quinella, Fretibacterium, Selenomonas, Cyrenella, and Stilbella were significantly positively correlated with the metabolites of the lipids and lipid-like molecules in the rumen and plasma. The results suggest that rumen microbiota such as Quinella, Fretibacterium, Selenomonas, and Cyrenella may regulate milk fat synthesis by influencing the lipid metabolites in the rumen and plasma. In addition, the combined analysis of the rumen microbiota and host metabolites may provide a fundamental understanding of the role of the microbiota and host in regulating milk fat synthesis.

Family Food Availability Income and Consumption Patterns Cause Wasting in Toddlers in Martapura Timur District

Asting, a condition characterized by low body weight in toddlers, has a prevalence of 28.94% in Martapura Timur District. This study aimed to explore the relationship between income, food availability, and consumption patterns as factors contributing to wasting among toddlers aged 12-59 months. Using a Cross-Sectional design, data were collected from 45 purposively sampled toddlers through questionnaires, food availability forms, and food frequency forms. Spearman Rank correlation (α=0.05) was employed for data analysis. Findings revealed that most mothers were under 20 or over 35 years old, with junior high school education and predominantly unemployed. Male toddlers were slightly more prevalent, with 82.2% classified as wasting and 17.8% in severe wasting. Low family income (below the minimum wage) was common (71.1%), and food availability ranged from insufficient to barely sufficient. Consumption patterns were largely suboptimal (64.4%), with staple food intake (&lt;150 g/day) limited to rice and corn, animal protein (50 g/day) from eggs only, plant protein (&lt;40 g/day) primarily from tofu, and minimum vegetable consumption (30 g/week of pumpkin, 1-3 times weekly). Statistical analysis indicated significant relationships between family income (p=0.048, r=0.296), food availability (p=0.048, r=0.296), and consumption patterns (ρ=0.002, r=0.455) with wasting. The strongest relationship was found in food availability. Efforts are being made to increase awareness through health centers, encouraging mothers to utilize home yards for food production, enhancing food availability, and improving children's diets. Addressing these factors can help reduce the prevalence of wasting and promote better nutrition in toddlers.

Monitoring changes and multi-scenario simulations of land use and ecosystem service values in coastal cities: A case study of Qingdao, China.

The study of land cover dynamics and the valuation of ecosystem services in coastal cities is pivotal for guiding sustainable urban development and conserving natural resources amidst the unique challenges posed by their geographical and ecological contexts. This study utilizes a 30m × 30m land use/cover change (LUCC) dataset to elucidate the spatiotemporal evolution of LUCC and ecosystem service value (ESV) and the trade-offs and synergistic relationships among ecosystem services in the coastal city of Qingdao under three different scenarios over the past 35years and in the future based on the dual perspective of the past-future by using the equivalent factor approach (EFA), the PLUS model, and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The findings reveal a pronounced expansion in built-up areas in Qingdao from 1985 to 2020, with a concomitant significant reduction in cropland, leading to a fluctuation in the total ESV, which initially increased and then declined. This indicates the intense pressure Qingdao faces in terms of agricultural development and ecological conservation. By 2030, under scenarios of natural development, cropland protection, and ecological protection, Qingdao is projected to experience varied degrees of ESV decline, amounting to 1.989 billion, 0.803 billion, and 0.142 billion yuan respectively, with the natural development scenario showing a rapid decrease in ESV around the Jiaozhou Bay area. The spatial ESV patterns under the cropland protection and ecological protection scenarios remain largely consistent with those of 2020, as does the spatial configuration of land use across all scenarios. The ecological protection scenario, demonstrating the least reduction in ESV, emerges as the optimal strategy for balancing urban development with ecological sustainability, advocating it as the preferred pathway for Qingdao's future urban planning. Over the past 35 years, Qingdao's ecosystem services have primarily exhibited synergies, although significant trade-offs remain between agricultural expansion and water supply. Additionally, there are some trade-offs between gas regulation and nutrient cycling with water supply. Under different scenarios for 2030, while the trade-off between agricultural output and water resource conservation persists, the ecologicalprotection scenario significantly enhances synergies among all service categories. This study provides an EFA-PLUS-ESV framework that offers innovations for modeling future ecosystem service values and their trade-offs and synergistic relationships.

Quality of Life in Adults with Atopic Dermatitis in Relation to Disease Severity: Nationwide Data in Japan.

The impact of atopic dermatitis (AD) on daily life and different levels of quality of life (QOL) according to AD severity has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to assess QOL in relation to the AD severity in Japan. This observational study used anonymized data of health insurance association members and their families registered to a mobile health app. The QOL measures included the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), EuroQol five-dimensional five-level descriptive system (EQ-5D-5L), Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI), and sleep disturbance Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). The data were assessed according to AD severity: the Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM: 0-2, "clear/almost clear"; 3-7, "mild"; 8-16, "moderate"; 17-24, "severe"; 25-28, "very severe"); and itch NRS (0-10). Of 1507 adults with AD symptoms or undergoing treatments, 882 were identified with AD diagnosis records. Of those, 229 (26.0%), 242 (27.4%), 273 (31.0%), and 138 (15.6%) were included in the clear/almost clear, mild, moderate, and severe/very severe POEM groups, with mean ± standard deviation DLQI scores of 2.0 ± 2.7, 3.6 ± 3.3, 6.1 ± 4.4, and 10.4 ± 5.7, respectively. Higher DLQI scores were observed with increasing POEM severity and itch NRS (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient 0.629 and 0.615, respectively). EQ-5D-5L scores slightly lowered with increasing POEM severity, whereas WPAI percentage slightly increased. Sleep disturbance NRS increased with increasing AD severity in terms of POEM and itch NRS. Adults identified with AD diagnosis records (n = 882) yielded higher WPAI percentages than those without (n = 1204) in all four domains (Wilcoxon rank sum test, p < 0.001 for all). This study, using real-world data in Japan, presented valuable data on the relationship between AD severity and various aspects of QOL. The data suggested greater QOL impairment with increasing AD severity; even at lower severity levels, QOL was impacted to some extent. The results highlight the need for careful consideration during clinical practice.

Establishing Decisional Cutoff Values of Neurofilament Light Chains in Cerebrospinal Fluid Measured by Fully Automated Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay.

Neurofilament light chain (NfL) is one of the most important biomarkers in the field of clinical neurochemistry. Several analytical methods have been developed in the last decade. Recently, Fujirebio introduced a ready-to-use assay kit for measuring NfL levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) on the fully automated LUMIPULSE G System. In this study, we established the decisional cutoffs for CSF NfL. We performed a retrospective observational study including patients with cognitive decline. CSF NfL levels were measured by two analytical methods: the NF-light ELISA kit (UmanDiagnostics) and the Lumipulse G1200 fully automated system (Fujirebio). We calculated the cutoffs for the Lumipulse, starting from the consolidated cutoffs of the ELISA method for each age and using the equation obtained by the regression analysis. The study population consisted of 100 patients with cognitive decline. The median levels of CSF NfL measured by Lumipulse and ELISA were 776.5 ± 772.6 pg/mL and 473.5 ± 443.5 pg/mL, respectively, significantly different (p < 0.001). The Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was 0.962, indicating a robust positive correlation between the two measurement methods. The equation derived from the Passing-Bablok regression analysis was CSF CLEIA = -61.16 + 1.83 × CSF ELISA. Based on this equation, we defined the decisional cutoff values. Decisional cutoffs are fundamental tools for guiding clinicians to use biomarkers' results and interpretation appropriately. This is the first study establishing the decisional cutoff value of NfL measured by Lumipulse, a fully automated platform widely used in clinical laboratories.

The Inconsistency of the Algorithms of Jaro–Winkler and Needleman–Wunsch Applied to DNA Chain Similarity Results

There are many different algorithms for calculating the distances between DNA chains. Different algorithms for determining such distances give different results. This paper does not consider issues related to which of the classical algorithms is better, but shows the inconsistency of two classical algorithms, specifically the algorithms of Jaro–Winkler and Needleman–Wunsch. To do this, we consider distance matrices based on both of these algorithms. We explain that, ideally, the triangles formed by the distance matrix corresponding to each triple of distances should be acute-angled isosceles. Of course, in reality, this fact is violated, and we can determine the badness for each such triangle. In this case, the two algorithms for determining distances will be consistent. In the case where such sequences of badness are located in the same order for them, and the greater the difference from this order, the less they are consistent. In this paper, we consider the distance matrices for the two mentioned algorithms, calculated for the mitochondrial DNA of 32 species of monkeys belonging to different genera. For them, 4960 triangles are formed in both matrices, and we calculate the values of the rank correlation between these sequences. We obtain very small results for these values (with different methods of calculating the rank correlation, it does not exceed the value 0.14), which indicates the inconsistency of the two algorithms under consideration.

Analysis of expression and its clinical significance of the ADAMTS-2 in systemic lupus erythematosus.

ADAMTS-2 is a procollagen N-proteinase that plays an important role in inflammation regulation. The objective of our research is to explore the expression of ADAMTS-2 in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and analyze its relationship with clinical features of SLE, and evaluate the potential value of ADAMTS-2 as a diagnostic biomarker in SLE. ADAMTS-2 expression in PBMCs was detected by RT-qPCR in SLE patients, RA patients, and healthy controls (HC). The diagnostic value of ADAMTS-2 for SLE was evaluated by ROC curve, and the correlation between ADAMTS-2 and the clinical characteristics of SLE was analyzed by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The expression profiles of GSE8650 and GSE82221 were downloaded from the GEO database. We performed GSEA to further understand the functions of ADAMTS-2 in SLE. CIBERSORT was utilized for immune cell infiltration analysis. RT-qPCR results validated that the expression of ADAMTS-2 in PBMCs was significantly increased in SLE patients than RA patients and HC. ROC anaylsis suggested that ADAMTS-2 has significant value in distinguishing new-onset SLE patients from RA patients and HC (AUC = 0.805, p < 0.0001). The expression of ADAMTS-2 was negatively correlated with C3, WBC, PLT, neutrophil, and monocyte level. PBMCs samples with high ADAMTS-2 expression were enriched in TNFA_SIGNALING_VIA_NFKB pathway. We found that ADAMTS-2 was positively correlated with neutrophils, M0 macrophages and M2 macrophages. ADAMTS-2 may be a potential biomarker of SLE patients and closely related to the occurrence and development of SLE. ADAMTS-2 is expected to be a new target for SLE treatment. Key Points • ADAMTS-2 is a potential biomarker of disease activity in SLE patients that develop a flare. • Samples with high ADAMTS-2 expression are enriched in TNFA_SIGNALING_VIA_NFKB pathway in SLE. • ADAMTS-2 expression is positively correlated with neutrophils, M0 macrophages and M2 macrophages.

Adjustment of the Framingham index by abdominal aortic calcification scores enables a more accurate prediction of long-term cardiac events in general population aged 40 years and above: evidence from NHANES 2013–2014

BackgroundAbdominal aortic calcification (AAC) is considered as a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. Our study aimed to investigate whether the predicted risk for cardiac death with the Framingham risk score (FRS) could be further improved with the addition of AAC score in general population aged ≥ 40 years.MethodsA total of 2971 participants aged ≥ 40 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 2013–2014 were followed up. The Spearman’s rank correlation was performed to explore the correlation between the AAC score and FRS. the Kaplan-Meier method was used to make cumulative cardiac death curve. Predictors of cardiac death was identified by multivariate Cox regression. Additionally, the predictive value of FRS alone and combined with AAC score was estimated by comparing the area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and calculating Integrated Discrimination Improvement (IDI).ResultsDuring a median of 70.50 months (interquartile range 58.43–82.57 months), 49 (1.649%) experienced cardiac death in the follow-up. The FRS was positively associated with AAC score. Both FRS and AAC score were independent predictors of cardiac death (hazard ratio 1.216; 95%CI 1.135 to 1.302; p < 0.00001; 1.159; 95%CI 1.109 to 1.211; p < 0.00001; respectively). Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated increased risk of cardiac death with increasing AAC score (log-rank 54.548, p<0.0001). The predictive value of FRS significantly was improved by adding with AAC score [increase in AUC from 0.734 to 0.780, p < 0.0001; IDI = 0.007, p = 0.013 ].ConclusionsAAC score is positively related with Framingham index, and FBS adjusted by AAC score further improved the prediction risk for cardiac death in general population aged ≥ 40 years.

Standardised activities in wheelchair rugby, comparison between athletes with coordination impairment and athletes with other impairments.

To determine if athletes with coordination impairment (CI) can continue playing wheelchair rugby (WR), while an evidence-based classification system, including impairment tests for CI is not yet available. This is a defensible practise if they show similar activity limitations as athletes with other eligible impairment types (OI) within the same sports class. Standardised activities were measured in 58 elite WR athletes; 14 with CI and 44 with OI. Wheelchair activities consisted of 20-meter sprint, 12-meter sprint with full stop, intermittent sprint (3-meter sprint, stop, 3-meter sprint, stop, 6-meter sprint with full stop), sprint-curve-slalom-curve, turn on the spot 180°, turn on the spot 90°, stop, turn 90°in the same direction, X-test (short circuit with sharp turns) without the ball. Ball activities consisted of maximal throwing distance, precision throwing short (25% of maximum throw) and long (75% of maximal throw) distance and X-test with the ball (pick-up the ball and dribble whilst pushing). Descriptive statistics were used and Spearman's Rank correlation was assessed for athletes with CI and OI for each outcome measure. Differences between athletes with CI and OI were assessed using a Mann-Whitney U test. Most activities showed a high correlation with the athlete class in both athletes with CI and athletes with OI. Furthermore, outcome measures of athletes with CI overlapped with athletes with OI in the same sports class for all activities. There was a trend for worse performance in athletes with CI in turn on the spot 90°, stop, turn 90°in the same direction, the short distance one handed precision throw (P 0.11)and in the X-test with the ball (P 0.10). Despite the current lack of evidence based impairment tests for CI, it is a defensible practise to not exclude athletes with CI from WR with the current classification system. The trends for differences in performance that were found can support athletes and coaches in optimising performance of athletes with CI.

Critical success factors for rail infrastructure joint ventures

Due to their myriad socioeconomic and environmental benefits, Joint Ventures (JVs) between construction contractors are considered a highly effective commercial strategy for delivering construction projects. This is especially true in the rail infrastructure industry. While rail infrastructure JVs (RIJVs) between several contractors may not always run smoothly, there have also been cases of successful implementation; nevertheless, the factors contributing to their success have not been comprehensively explored. It is crucial to thoroughly understand the critical success factors (CSFs) for RIJVs, as their success depends on the combination of various key factors during their implementation. This study aims to evaluate the CSFs for RIJVs. Through a comprehensive literature review, 20 CSFs for RIJVs were identified, and an expert survey was conducted with 40 UK-based RIJV professionals. The data were analysed using the relative importance index and Spearman’s rank correlation analysis. The top five perceived CSFs were communication, compatibility of partner objectives, suitable JV partner selection, trust, and effective planning. This suggests the level of importance attached to these CSFs by the professionals working in and managing RIJVs. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed significant interdependencies among CSFs, such as the combination of trust with communication and the intent to learn with the level of participation and involvement, suggesting that these CSFs often go hand in hand. Further analysis of challenges encountered on RIJVs revealed four key themes: information management and IT systems integration, alignment, congruency and synergy, inter-organisational dynamics, and strategic management. Solutions proposed for these challenges also fell into four primary themes: strategic management and leadership, collaboration and communication, risk management and conflict resolution, and operational efficiency and resource optimisation. The findings showed a comprehensive evaluation of CSFs for RIJVs, highlighting pathways to effective JV execution. This study makes a valuable contribution to the existing body of knowledge on RIJV by analysing the CSFs. It also offers practical insights that can enhance the successful implementation of RIJV projects and provide guidance for top team managers in allocating strategic resources to key areas.

Association Between Overweight and Central Obesity in Women of Reproductive Age and Overweight in Children Under Five Years of Age

Objective: Childhood obesity is becoming an emerging public health issue as it is associated with increased morbidity and premature deaths. Determinants like the child’s household characteristics, maternal weight before the preconception stage, and maternal weight in childhood are studied. This study aims to understand the relationship between overweight women of reproductive age and overweight children under the age of five to inform future intervention strategies.Methods: The data for the study were collected from the India’s National Family Health Survey- 5 (NFHS-5). This study is based on publicly available, anonymized secondary data. It has been sub-grouped into urban and rural categories. The percentage of women with high-risk Waist-Hip-Ratio (WHR) and the percentage of overweight women were independent variables whereas the percentage of overweight under-five children was the dependent variable. Spearman rank correlation coefficient, simple linear regression, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the collected data. Descriptive analysis was done for mean, median, and mode. Results: Study shows the percentage of overweight women has increased by 4.1%, and the percentage of overweight children has increased by 2% during the NFHS5 (2019-21) compared to NFHS4 (2015-16). The Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (rs) values are 0.4032 for urban, 0.6867 for rural, and 0.5835 for the total population of women with high-risk WHR and overweight children under five years of age whereas the analysis for the percentage of overweight women and percentage of overweight children under five years of age has shown rs=0.389 for rural and rs=0.03893 for total population. Multiple linear regression analysis was done for the total population at a significance level of 0.05 for the independent variables percentage of overweight women, the percentage of women with high risk WHR, and the dependent variable, the percentage of overweight children under five years of age. The results indicated (b0=-3.0448, b1=-0.0202, and b2=0.1397). Simple linear regression of the total population for the independent variable overweight women and dependent variable overweight children under five years of age shows (R=0.0344, Rsquare=0.0012, p-value=0.8421, and b=0.0099) and for the overweight children under five years of age and high-risk WHR women (R=0.5662, Rsquare=0.3205, p-value=0.0003, and b=0.1366). Conclusions: Central obesity or high-risk WHR in women is more common than being overweight. The number of overweight women as well as children under five years is increasing. Central obesity in women shows a moderate positive relation with overweight in children under five years. It shows when the number of women with high-risk WHR increases, there will be an increase in the number of overweight children under five years of age.

Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in migraine are not related to headache frequency: A case-control study in patients with high-frequency/chronic migraine.

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) concentrations have been shown to be low in patients with migraine, but results are controversial regarding the current role of vitamin D in migraine severity. Using a case-control design, we aimed to evaluate serum 25(OH)D levels in a group of females with high-frequency episodic migraine/chronic migraine (HF/CM) and analyze its association with headache frequency and serum calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels. Serum 25(OH)D levels were measured in 97 females with HF/CM (age 48.9 ± 9.4 years) and 146 healthy females (47.4 ± 8.1 years). Participants taking vitamin D supplements were excluded. Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D were determined by electrochemiluminescence (Roche, Germany), and CGRP levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Abbexa, UK). Mean 25(OH)D levels in females with HF/CM (median [interquartile range] 19.0 [13.0-24.5] ng/mL) were below the values considered for insufficiency or deficiency and significantly lower than controls (25.0 [19-29.8] ng/mL; p < 0.0001). Fifty (51.5%) patients with HF/CM had levels below 20 ng/mL. There was no significant association between vitamin D levels and monthly headache days (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient [rho]: -0.086; p = 0.404) or with serum α (rho: 0.114; p = 0.267) and β-CGRP (rho: 0.113; p = 0.276) levels. Serum 25(OH)D levels in females with HF/CM with a minimum daily sunlight exposure were significantly higher than those without (23.0 [15.0-26.0] ng/mL vs. 14.0 [10.0-20.0] ng/mL; p < 0.001). Females with HF/CM who performed exercise had higher, albeit not significant, plasma 25(OH)D levels than those who did not (21.0 [15.5-28.0] ng/mL vs. 16.5 [12.0-24.0] ng/mL; p = 0.059). Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D were low in many patients with HF/CM. Because there was no correlation with migraine frequency or serum CGRP levels, this deficiency seems to be a direct consequence of the migraine impact. Our data do not support either a relationship of 25(OH)D levels with migraine severity or the use of vitamin D supplements as a specific migraine treatment, although further studies are needed.

Communication needs regarding heart failure trajectory and palliative care between patients and healthcare providers: A cross-sectional study.

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition with an unpredictable trajectory, making effective communication between patients and healthcare providers crucial for optimizing outcomes. This study aims to investigate and compare the communication needs regarding HF trajectory and palliative care between patients and healthcare providers and to identify factors associated with the communication needs of patients with HF. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 100 patients with HF and 35 healthcare providers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing communication needs, health literacy, self-care behavior, and social support. Statistical analyses were performed, including Spearman's rank correlation, Pearson's correlation, and multiple regression analyses. Patients prioritized communication related to device-related questions, whereas healthcare providers focused more on aspects of HF in daily life. Both groups ranked end-of-life communication as the lowest priority. The communication needs of patients were positively correlated with health literacy (r = 0.27, p = .007), self-care behavior (r = 0.32, p = .001), and social support (r = 0.24, p = .016). Multiple regression analyses indicated that self-care behavior was a significant factor influencing the communication needs of patients (β = 0.27, p = .011). Enhanced patient-centered communication strategies are required to address the communication priority gaps between patients and healthcare providers. Improving health literacy, supporting self-care behaviors, and leveraging social support are critical in meeting patients' communication needs. Tailored communication training for healthcare providers can bridge this gap and improve overall HF management.

Change in sleep, gastrointestinal symptoms, and mood states at high altitude (4500m) for 6 months.

This study aimed to investigate the alterations in sleep quality and sleep patterns among military personnel at altitudes ranging from 1500 to 4500m, as well as the associated factors influencing their sleep. This study employed a longitudinal prospective survey conducted over a period of six months, from November 2023 to June 2024. A total of 90 soldiers were recruited for participation. Initially, demographic data and sleep conditions were collected through a questionnaire administered to participants at an altitude of 1,500m. Subsequently, participants were monitored continuously to gather data over seven days at an altitude of 4,500m, specifically during the 7 days of the 6-month survey period), and the 1st month at an altitude of 4,500m (on the 1st month of the six-month survey period. Spearman's rank correlation was utilized to investigate the relationships among sleep quality, gastrointestinal symptoms, and mood states. The total score of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) exhibited an increase, indicating impaired sleep quality among soldiers stationed at an altitude of 4,500m for durations 7 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Notably, after 7 days of soldiers, there was a significant gradual in the number of military soldiers experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, abdominal distention, and constipation, which subsequently stabilized with prolonged exposure to the altitude. Furthermore, a significant rise in the incidence of depression was observed after days of rapid exposure 4,500 above sea level, and the emotional state of military personnel tended to tend towards mild depression over the duration of time Correlation. Correlation analysis showed that the PSQI score was closely related to the Athens Insomnia Scale(AIS) total score, Epworth Sleepiness Scale(ESS) total score, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale(SAS) total score, Self-Rating Depression Scale(SDS) total score, difficulty in falling asleep, easy to wake up or wake up early at night, poor breathing and snoring (on the 1st month, the 3rd month and the 6th month at the altitude of 4500m respectively: rs = 0.868, 0.648, 0.483, 0.459, 0.472, 0.364, 0.613, 0.75; rs = 0.856, 0.521, 0.481, 0.354, 0.768, 0.720, 0.511, 0.535; rs = 0.756, 0.490, 0.496, 0.352, 0.708, 0.737, 0.424, 0.408, p < 0.01 or p < 0.05); Positively correlated with heart rate (at 4500m 7 days at altitude: rs = 0.233, p = 0.027), diarrhea (at 4500m 1-month at altitude: rs = 0.237) bloating and constipation (at 4500m 1 month and 3months respectively: rs = 0.472; rs = 0.364; rs = 0.341, 0.273, p < 0.05); and with age, sex, marital status, education were significantly positive correlation (rs = 0.463, 0.251, 0.255, 0.230, p < 0.05). The impaired sleep quality, gastrointestinal symptoms, and anxiety and depression in military personnel changed with the extension of the time of stationing at 4500m altitude, which was most prominent when stationed at high altitude for 7 days; the sleep quality of those stationed at high altitude had a close relationship with the gastrointestinal symptoms, the type of sleep(insomnia and drowsiness), and the heart rate, but it varied with the duration of the stationing at high altitude; our study provides new information for the prevention of sleep disturbance, gastrointestinal symptoms, and negative emotions in high-altitude military personnel.

Human Defence Factors in Different Gestational Week Placenta: A Pilot Study.

Numerous studies have shown the presence of multiple defence factors in placental tissue, although their role is partially understood; therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB); human beta-defensin 2, 3, and 4 (HBD-2,3,4); cathelicidine (LL-37); heat shock protein 60 (HSP60); and interleukin 10 (IL-10) in dissimilar gestational week placental tissue and display correlations between immunoreactive cells. A total of 15 human placental tissue samples were acquired from mothers with different gestational weeks: 28, 31, and 40. Routine staining and immunohistochemistry for the samples were executed. The evaluation of data was performed with semi-quantitative methods, and, for statistical analysis, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used. Spearman's rank correlation was used for calculating correlations. NF-κB, HBD- 2,3,4, HSP60, and IL-10 expression were discovered in every examined placental tissue cell type. LL-37 expression was found only in Hofbauer cells. A rise in expression with higher gestational weeks was noted in LL-37-positive Hofbauer cells (p = 0.03), HBD-3-positive cytotrophoblasts (p = 0.007), endothelial cells (p = 0.024), extraembryonic mesodermal cells (p = 0.004), and HBD-4-positive endothelial cells (p = 0.001). Numerous statistically significant moderate and strong positive correlations between defence factors were discovered. The persistence of Hofbauer cell accumulations underlines the growing significance of placental macrophages in placental protection. The expression of positive defence factors and a rise in expression in tissue protection factors (HBD-3, LL-37, HBD-4) in higher gestational weeks may indicate these factors as the most significant protectors of the placenta in ontogenetic aspects. The high number of statistically significant positive and negative correlations between positive cells show a strong network to sustain distressed placental growth and therefore pregnancy.

Stability of volatile organic compounds in thermal desorption tubes and in solution

Exhaled breath volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are often collected and stored in sorbent tubes before thermal desorption-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) analysis. Information about the stability of VOCs during storage is needed to account for potential artifacts and monitor for losses. Additionally, information about the stability of VOC standards in solution is required to assess their performance as quality control and internal standards. We evaluated the stability of a standard mixture of 42 VOCs in dual-sorbent tubes containing Tenax® TA and Carbotrap 1TD over 60 d at commonly used storage conditions: room temperature (∼21 °C), 4 °C, and -80 °C. The same 42 VOCs were also evaluated for their stability in methanol over 60 d while stored at -20 °C. All samples were analyzed using TD-GC-MS. During storage, most VOCs were stable on sorbent after 60 d: 36/42 (86%), 39/42 (93%), and 41/42 (98%) had not statistically changed for room temperature, 4 °C and -80 °C, respectively, based on Spearman rank correlation coefficients and linear regression analysis. The isotopically labeled VOCs tested here are well-suited to serve as internal standards for pre-analysis or storage. Degradation of VOCs in solution was apparent after 60 d: 27/42 (64%) of VOCs had statistically decreased. The total VOC mixture had dropped to 90% of its original intensity after ∼22 d and a subset of VOCs typically used as internal standards dropped to 90% in ∼16 d. Analysts using similar mixtures should make a fresh solution at least every two weeks to ensure analytical accuracy. This study provides important insights into storage practices for both sorbent tubes and standard solutions, guiding analysts toward improved reliability and accuracy in exhaled breath analysis.

Understanding Nurses' perspectives on electronic health records in Egypt: Insights from a cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) among nurses in Egypt. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1217 nurses from 33 public and private hospitals. Data were collected using a self-administered online questionnaire, which assessed knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of EHRs. The data were analyzed using Spearman's rank correlation and binary logistic regression. Significant positive correlations were identified between nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards EHRs (r=0.72, p<0.001), knowledge and acceptance (r=0.67, p<0.001), and attitudes and acceptance (r=0.79, p<0.001). Key predictors of EHR acceptance included higher education (postgraduate) (p=0.004), good computer skills (p<0.001), satisfactory knowledge (p<0.001), and positive attitudes (p<0.001). Nurses' knowledge and attitudes play a crucial role in their acceptance of EHRs. These findings underscore the importance of targeted education and skill development programs to support the effective implementation of EHR systems in Egyptian healthcare settings. Healthcare leaders and policymakers must champion the adoption of EHRs by creating policies that support their implementation. Creating a supportive environment that encourages the use of EHRs can significantly enhance their acceptance.