Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2023 Nov 21;120(47):e2317870120. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2317870120. Epub 2023 Nov 15.
NO ABSTRACT
PMID:37967219 | DOI:10.1073/pnas.2317870120
Tag: pubmed
Ann Med. 2023;55(2):2274511. doi: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2274511. Epub 2023 Nov 15.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: At present, there are some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of oral small molecule drugs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral small molecule drug treatment for COVID-19.
METHODS: RCTs were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through 1 April 2023. A total of nine RCTs were included, including 30,970 COVID-19 patients comparing five treatments (azvudine, molnupiravir, paxlovid, VV116, and placebo). The Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB) was used to assess the bias risk of the included studies. The direct and indirect evidence were combined using a Bayesian network meta-analysis (PROSPERO Code No: CRD42023397837).
RESULTS: Direct analysis showed that paxlovid was associated with a reduced risk of mortality (odds ratio [OR] 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06-0.25) and hospitalization (OR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00-0.67) compared with placebo. Network meta-analysis showed that paxlovid had the highest probability of being the best management strategy in patients with COVID-19, reducing mortality (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.01-1.99; surface under the cumulative ranking curve [SUCRA]: 0.77) and hospitalization (OR = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.00-1.03; SUCRA: 0.95). For prespecified safety outcomes, SUCRA values ranked VV116 (OR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.00-2.07: SUCRA 0.86) as the most beneficial intervention for the prevention of serious adverse events.
CONCLUSIONS: When compared to other antiviral medications, paxlovid can reduce the mortality and hospitalization of COVID-19 patients.
PMID:37967171 | DOI:10.1080/07853890.2023.2274511
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0294441. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294441. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Crohn’s disease (CD) can be associated with a wide range of extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs), including neurological ones. Published studies differ in their conclusions about the epidemiology and etiopathogenesis of neurological EIMs. The aims of this study were to demonstrate the presence and find risk factors of peripheral (somatic and autonomic) neuropathy patients with severe CD on anti-TNFα biological therapy.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: A clinical examination focusing on detection of peripheral sensor-motor nervous dysfunction (including Sudoscan) and examination of autonomic nervous system dysfunction (using Ewing´s battery tests and spectral analysis) together with laboratory tests and collection of demographic data followed by administration of questionnaires were performed on a total of 30 neurologically asymptomatic outpatients with severe CD on anti-TNFα biological therapy.
RESULTS: Peripheral sensor-motor nervous function via clinical neurological examination was pathological in 36.7% and Sudoscan in 33.3% of cases. Statistically significant associations between vibration perception test and age, CD and biological therapy duration, body mass index and Crohn’s Disease Activity Index were proved while statistically significant associations between temperature perception test and age and BMI were proved as well. Additionally, a decrease of total protein in a patient´s serum below the physiological cut-off in the 6 months prior to measurement was associated with a pathological result of a Sudoscan. Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy based on Ewing´s battery tests was present in 56.7% of patients, no statistically significant risk factors were found. Our peripheral neuropathy questionnaire correlated with the results of the Sudoscan test and some tests of the clinical examination of peripheral sensor-motor nervous function (discriminatory contact perception test, temperature perception test).
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated a relatively high prevalence of peripheral (especially autonomic) neuropathy and verified some risk factors for the development of peripheral somatic neuropathy in asymptomatic patients with severe form of CD on anti-TNFα biological therapy.
PMID:37967139 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0294441
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0292275. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292275. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
Reliable identification of plant species in the digestive tract of a deceased animal often represents the major key to diagnose a lethal intoxication with poisonous plants in veterinary pathology. In many cases, identification of the species is challenging or even impossible because the diagnostic morphological features have been degraded, and because the interpretation of such features requires a considerable expertise in plant anatomy and biodiversity. The use of DNA barcoding markers can support or even replace classical morphological assessment. While these markers have been widely used for plant taxonomy, their forensic application to clarify causes of animal poisoning is novel. In addition, we use specific single-nucleotide polymorphisms as fingerprints. This allows for a clear decision even in cases, where the conventionally used statistical e-values remain ambiguous. In the current work, we explore the feasibility of this strategy in a couple of exemplary cases, either in concert with anatomical diagnostics, or in cases where visual species identification is not possible, or where chemical toxin detection methods are not well established, complex, time consuming and expensive.
PMID:37967132 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0292275
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0293541. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293541. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
Cultural translations of L1 and L2, in both directions, can indicate different behaviors of translators, influenced by the unique characteristics of each culture and the proficiency of the translator trainees’ bicultural competence. This study compares translator trainees’ behaviors when engaged in direct translation (L2 to L1) and inverse translation (L1 to L2) of cultural references to reveal the extent to which directionality influences trainees’ actual and perceived behaviors. Following a hypothesis-based observational design, the authors examine a single group’s behaviors under two conditions (direct translation and inverse translation), using Translog-II and a questionnaire. The data are analyzed quantitatively using the Wilcoxon test and descriptive statistics. The key findings indicate that inverse translation demands more cognitive effort than direct translation, particularly in online revision (n = 16, z = -3.206, p < .05) and production speed (n = 16, z = -3.068, p < .05). Conversely, direct translation requires more cognitive effort, especially in orientation time (n = 16, z = -2.482, p < .05) and performance (n = 16, z = -3.346, p < .05). Additionally, the students’ responses to the questionnaire reveal a tendency to rely more on online resources than on internal translation strategies. The authors suggest that translation students should receive training in both translation directions, effective management of the translation process, appropriate utilization of translation strategies, and cultural competence. These components should be integrated into translation training courses and instructional methods.
PMID:37967125 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0293541
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0292403. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292403. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
Social media is emerged as a powerful communication tool over the past ten years. The Z generation’s green buying habits and purchase intentions are being reshaped by social media, which is helping to advance the development of a sustainable environment. The consumption of non-organic products has raised carbon emissions, so changing consumption patterns and purchase intentions is necessary for a more sustainable future. Moreover, earlier literature has the absence of a comprehensive behavior change model that explains the mechanism through which social media influences sustainable behaviors This study explores that how social media affects patterns of consumption for Z generation of China while considering the role of environmental concerns, subjective norms, eco-branding and eco-labeling on the basis of theory of planned behavior. A questionnaire is used to get information from the 563 Z generation respondents of China. The data is analyzed using Smart-PLS and empirical outcomes show that social media has a statistically significant influence on shaping and affecting green consumption behavior of China’s Z generation because it has the potential to reach a vast audience and spread awareness about environmental issues, leading to increased intention towards a sustainable environment and reduction in carbon emissions. It also provides a platform for individuals to express their opinions and engage in discussions on environmental issues. These developments are promising for the future of environmental sustainability as they indicate a growing interest in preserving the planet among the Z generation of China. It can be recommended as a policy tool that government and other organizations should support the development of informative content on social media platforms, highlighting the importance of environmental sustainability and eco-friendly habits.
PMID:37967117 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0292403
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0289289. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289289. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The healthy plate model (HPM) is a practical guide to modulate the portion of staple food in main meals, subsequently affecting the risks associated with Non-communicable Diseases include type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effectiveness of health information and the healthy plate model on cardio-metabolic risk factors, knowledge and attitude towards T2DM prevention measures.
METHODS: A pre-post analysis, as part of a cluster randomized trial with street food vendors and their customers, was implemented in three randomly selected districts in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Two vendor-customer clusters each with 15 and more vendors from each district were randomly assigned to receive either T2DM health information only (Intervention package1 [IP1]) or IP1 plus a subsidized meal with vegetables and fruits, following the principles of the HPM (Intervention package2 [IP2]). Within the clusters the participants were informed on the importance of the intervention they received. An intervention period lasted for three months from 1st April to 31st June 2019. We applied Generalized Linear Mixed Models and Bayesian Modelling (for sensitivity analysis) to assess the effectiveness of the interventions.
RESULTS: Overall, 336 (IP2 = 175 and IP1 = 161) out of 560 (280/arm) previous study participants participated in evaluation. Diastolic BP was lower among IP2 participants in the evaluation than baseline AβC = -4.1mmHg (95%CI:-5.42 to -2.76). After adjusting for the interaction between IP2 and age of the consumers, the BMI was significantly lower among IP2 in the evaluation than baseline AβC = -0.7kg/m2 (95%CI: -1.17 to -0.23). With interaction between IP2 and income, BMI was higher in the IP2 in the evaluation than baseline AβC = 0.73kg/m2 (95%CI: 0.08 to 1.38). Systolic and diastolic BP were significantly lower among IP1 in the evaluation than baseline AβC = -3.5mmHg (95%CI:-5.78 to -1.24) and AβC = -5.9mmHg (95%CI:-7.34 to -4.44) respectively. Both the knowledge scores and positive attitudes towards T2DM prevention measures were higher in the evaluation than baseline in both interventions arms.
CONCLUSION: The positive effects on cardio-metabolic risk factors, knowledge and attitude were observed in both intervention arms. Due to interactions between IP2, age and income; designing interventions relating to food and cardio-metabolic risk factors, should consider combining socio-economic factors.
PMID:37967111 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0289289
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0291394. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291394. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Homebirth preference is the intention/plan to give birth outside health facilities with the help of unskilled birth attendants. The preference to give birth at home without a skilled birth attendant leads to care-seeking delays, intrapartum mortality, multiple stillbirths, and postpartum morbidities and mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of homebirth preference and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia.
METHODS: Search of Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were done for this study from 20th August 2022 to 6th November 2022. For data extraction and analysis, the standardized data extraction checklist and Stata version 14 were used respectively. Sentence as “Cochrane Q test statistics and I2 statistics were used to check heterogeneity of the studies. The pooled prevalence of homebirth preference was estimated using a random-effects model. The association between homebirth preference and independent variables was determined using an odd ratio with a 95% confidence interval. A funnel plot and Egger’s test were used to assess publication bias.
RESULTS: A total of 976 research articles were identified. Seven studies that fulfilled eligibility criteria were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of homebirth preference in Ethiopia was 39.62% (95% CI 27.98, 51.26). The current meta-analysis revealed that average monthly income <1800 ETB (OR = 2.66, 95% CI 1.44, 4.90) lack of ANC follow-up (OR = 2.57, 95%CI 1.32, 5.01), being multipara (OR = 1.77, 95%CI 1.39, 2.25), poor knowledge about obstetric danger sign (OR = 5.75, 95%CI 1.o2, 32.42), and not discussing the place of delivery with a partner (OR = 5.89 (95%CI 1.1, 31.63) were significantly associated with homebirth preference.
CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the substantial prevalence of homebirth preference in Ethiopia which may contribute maternal and child health crisis. The homebirth preference was associated with low average monthly income (<1800 ETB), lack of ANC follow-up, multipara, poor knowledge about obstetric danger signs, and not discussing with their partner the place of delivery. Improving knowledge of pregnant women about the benefit of health facility delivery and obstetric danger signs is necessary to decrease the prevalence of homebirth preference; for these can reduce negative outcomes occurred during delivery.
PMID:37967092 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0291394
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0294339. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294339. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Transcultural adaptation and validation of FACIT-TS-PS questionnaire to Serbian language.
METHODS: Standard forward and backward translation from English to Serbian language was performed. Pilot testing of FACIT-TS-PS was conducted on 12 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of malignant tumor. The study included 154 patients with malignant disease. The Questionnaire of Patient Satisfaction was used as a validated tool to evaluate concurrent validity of FACIT-TS-PS questionnaire. Reproducibility was tested on 30 subjects who answered the questionnaire for the second time two weeks later.
RESULTS: Three FACIT-TS-PS subscales (Physician Communication, Treatment Staff Communication and Nurse Communication) demonstrated satisfactory construct validity using Cronbach’s alpha, the remaining two subscales (Technical Competence and Confidence & Trust) showed high ceiling effect. Treatment Staff Communication subscale showed large floor effect. Concurrent validity was demonstrated by correlation with the two dimensions of the Questionnaire of Patient Satisfaction. Satisfactory reproducibility was demonstrated on 30 patients who filled the questionnaire for the second time two weeks after initial interview.
CONCLUSION: The Serbian version of FACIT-TS-PS with the omission of Treatment Staff Communication subscale could be used as a valid instrument to assess patient and treatment satisfaction in chronically ill patients in the Serbian population. Omission of Treatment Staff Communication subscale is necessary because it contains questions not relevant for patients in Serbian healthcare system.
PMID:37967091 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0294339
PLoS One. 2023 Nov 15;18(11):e0292783. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292783. eCollection 2023.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: No definite treatment is known for COVID-19 till date. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of customized Homoeopathic medicines, when used as an add-on treatment to Standard of Care (SOC), in patients suffering from moderate to severe COVID-19 infection.
METHODS: This was a randomized, controlled, single-blind, parallel-group trial where 214 COVID19-positive patients were screened for moderate and severe cases of COVID-19. Adjuvant homoeopathic medicines were given in the treatment group and SOC was given to both groups. The duration of oxygen support was compared as the primary outcome. Subjects were followed for 28 days or till the end-point of mechanical ventilation/ death.
RESULTS: Of 129 subjects included, 57 and 55 were severe; and 8 and 9 were moderate cases in Homoeopathy and SOC arms, respectively. In all, 9 (15.2%) participants in Homoeopathy and 20 (32.2%) participants in SOC arms eventually expired (p<0.05). Oxygen support was required for 9.84±7.00 and 14.92±7.549 days in Homoeopathy and SOC arms, respectively (p<0.005). Subjects receiving Homoeopathy (12.9±6.days) had a shorter hospitalization stay than in SOC (14.9±7.5 days). Homoeopathy arm (10.6±5.7 days) also showed statistically significant mean conversion time of of Realtime-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) from positive to negative than the SOC arm (12.9±5.6 days). The mean score of Clinical Outcome Ordinal Scale (COOS) was lower in the Homoeopathy arm. Laboratory markers [Interleukins (IL)-6, C-reactive protein (CRP), Neutrophils-Lymphocytes ratio (NLR)]were normalized earlier in Homoeopathy arm.
CONCLUSION: Homoeopathy, as add-on therapy with SOC for COVID-19 management, demonstrates a reduction in mortality and morbidity, by reduced requirement of oxygen and hospitalization. Some laboratory markers are normalized at an earlier time. Hence, there is overall control over the disease. Registry: The study was registered on the http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials website under identifier number: CTRI/2020/12/029668 on 9th December 2020.
PMID:37967089 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0292783