Population Health Metrics is proud to pilot three annual awards to recognise the efforts of reviewers and editors. Introducing the Early Career Researcher Reviewer Award, the Editorial Board Reviewer Award and the Handling Editor Award. Winners will be announced in early 2026 for efforts in 2025.

Poultry Science and Management is an open access peer-reviewed journal that aims to publish innovative research about the management of poultry animals for ...

Background Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is increasingly used to screen for fetal chromosomal aneuploidy by analyzing cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in peripheral maternal blood. The method provides an opportunity for early detection of large genetic abnormalities without an increased risk of miscarriage due to invasive procedures. Commercial applications for use at clinical laboratories often take advantage of DNA sequencing technologies and include the bioinformatic workup of the sequence data. The interpretation of the test results and the clinical report writing, however, remains the responsibility of the diagnostic laboratory. In order to facilitate this step, we developed NIPTviewer, a web-based application to visualize and guide the interpretation of NIPT data results. Results NIPTviewer has a database functionality to store the NIPT results and a web interface for user interaction and visualization. The application has been implemented as part of a novel analysis pipeline for NIPT in a diagnostic laboratory at Uppsala University Hospital. The validation data set included 84 previously analyzed plasma samples with known results regarding chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y. They were sequenced in six different experiments, uploaded to NIPTviewer and assigned to a clinical laboratory geneticist for interpretation. The results of all previously analyzed samples were replicated. Conclusion NIPTviewer facilitates NIPT results interpretation and has been implemented as part of a NIPT analysis routine that was accredited by the national accreditation body for Sweden (Swedac).

Mpox, primarily endemic to Central and West Africa, has seen a concerning global rise in recent years. There is a critical need to synthesize evidence on s

Background The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is strongly associated with lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and is particularly rich in polyphenols, bioactive compounds with potential cardioprotective effects. However, the specific phenolic compounds underlying these benefits remain unclear. The objective of this study was to develop a urinary multi-metabolite signature of phenolic compounds reflecting MedDiet adherence and to evaluate its prospective association with CVD risk. Methods In a case–cohort nested study within the PREDIMED trial, we measured 62 phenolic metabolites in spot urine by liquid chromatography–high‐resolution mass spectrometry at baseline and after 1 year in 1180 individuals: 653 incident CVD cases (stroke, myocardial infarction, CVD death, or heart failure) and a random subcohort of 603 participants (76 overlapping cases). We applied elastic net regression to derive a urinary multi-metabolite signature prospectively associated with MedDiet adherence, measured by the validated 14-item Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS). Multivariable Cox models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) of CVD by levels of the multi-metabolite signature. Results The urinary multi-metabolite signature, comprising eight phenolic compounds selected by elastic net regression, was inversely associated with CVD risk in a dose–response pattern (HR per SD = 0.80 (0.68–0.94); HR Q4 vs Q1 = 0.48 (0.30–0.78); p-trend = 0.002). The metabolites included in the signature were derived from foods typical of the MedDiet, particularly virgin olive oil, wine, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. After 1 year, MedDiet interventions significantly increased urolithin A metabolites (derived from walnuts) compared to the control group. Conclusions We identified a urinary multi-metabolite signature of MedDiet adherence that is prospectively associated with lower CVD incidence. These findings support that polyphenols derived from the MedDiet showed inverse associations with cardiovascular outcomes. Trial registration The study was registered with the International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 35739639.

Despite limited researches revealed potential relationship between dietary habits and diseases in recent years, there is still a lack of systematic underst

Aquaculture Science and Management is an open access peer-reviewed journal that aims to publish innovative research about the welfare and management of ...

The discovery of a mosasaurine tooth (NDGS 12217) in the Hell Creek Formation, Morton County, North Dakota, adds to the growing evidence that mosasaurs, tr

Publishing highly topical clinical research relating to the perioperative care of surgical patients, Perioperative Medicine aims to disseminate the ...

Introducing Ocean Ecosystems Our ocean ecosystems are of immense ecological, climatic, and economic importance. Yet, the ecological functioning and diversity of these ecosystems remain largely unexplored. Historically, much greater effort has been placed in publishing research on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems compared to the marine environment [ 1], and the importance of processes within these systems is considered comparatively overlooked by other disciplines [ 2].

Curvature is a ubiquitous feature in biology, shaping structures at every scale and playing diverse roles in processes ranging from membrane dynamics to tissue organization. In this review, we first introduce briefly the fundamental concepts and mathematical principles of curvature. The second section explores how membrane curvature is perceived by molecular sensors and integrated into cellular responses. The third section examines the effects of curvature on cellular processes and behaviors at the cell-scale, providing a detailed discussion of the underlying mechanisms. Finally, we offer insights into emerging perspectives and highlight the future challenges in unraveling the multifaceted roles of curvature in biology.

Introduction The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in youth is increasing and in-utero exposure to maternal diabetes is a known risk factor, with higher risk associated with pregestational T2D exposure compared to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) exposure. We hypothesize this differential risk is reflected in DNA methylation (DNAm) changes induced by differential timing of in-utero exposure to maternal diabetes, and that exposure to diabetes throughout pregnancy (T2D) compared to exposure later in development (GDM), induces different DNAm signatures and different T2D risk to offspring. This study presents an epigenome-wide investigation of DNAm alterations associated with in-utero exposure to either maternal pregestational T2D or GDM, to determine if the timing of prenatal diabetes exposure differentially alters DNAm. Methods We performed an epigenome-wide analysis on cord blood from 99 newborns exposed to pregestational T2D, 70 newborns exposed to GDM, and 41 unexposed to diabetes in-utero from the Next Generation birth cohort. Associations were tested using multiple linear regression models while adjusting for sex, maternal age, BMI, smoking status, gestational age, cord blood cell type proportions and batch effects. Results We identified 27 differentially methylated sites associated with exposure to GDM, 27 sites associated with exposure to T2D, and 9 common sites associated with exposure to either GDM or T2D (adjusted p value < 0.05 and effect size estimate > 0.01). One site at CLDN15 and two unannotated sites were previously reported as associated with obesity. We also identified 87 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with in-utero exposure to GDM and 69 DMRs associated with in-utero exposure to T2D. We identified 23 DMR sites that were previously associated with obesity, three with T2D and five with in-utero exposure to GDM. Furthermore, we identified six CpG sites in the PTPRN2 gene, a gene previously associated with DNAm differences in blood of youth with T2D from the same population. Conclusion Our findings support that in-utero exposure to maternal diabetes is associated with DNAm alterations in offspring. Moreover, the timing of maternal diabetes in-utero exposure (GDM or T2D) produces overlapping but distinct DNAm patterns, suggesting that the window of exposure to maternal diabetes produces different molecular modifications and may reflect, at least in part, the difference in risk for youth-onset T2D in offspring. We also identified sites in this study that have been previously associated with T2D or obesity, which may serve as potential early-life biomarkers of exposure and/or risk, warranting further investigation in longitudinal studies.

Care for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has traditionally relied on in-person visits for disease management. However, technological advances have paved the way for innovation in healthcare delivery in the IBD space, most notably through mobile health applications (apps). These apps have many capabilities including, but not limited to, helping patients track symptoms and food intake, communicating with medical providers, connecting with nutritionists, providing access to mental health resources, and providing education about IBD. Given the ubiquity of smartphones and increasing prevalence of technology involvement in healthcare, there is a plethora of apps available for personal and professional use in IBD care. We reviewed and compared some of the most studied and popular apps available on the marketplace to help clinicians understand the state of mobile technologies for IBD and see the potential value of integrating apps in the traditional IBD care model. Furthermore, we review the current state of wearable technology and explore next steps in technology development to further augment care for patients with IBD. IBD is a lifelong disease, without a cure, and a multidisciplinary management approach is critical. Health apps offer unique opportunities for an integrated management strategy, empowering patients to have more involvement in their care, and providing clinicians with real-time clinical data to tailor more personalized treatment plans.

Background Exercise is known to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, the effectiveness of various exercise regimens in preventing GDM remains unclear, and the optimal approach has yet to be identified. This study aims to perform a systematic review and network meta-analysis to evaluate the preventive effects of different exercise interventions on GDM and to identify the most effective exercise strategy for its prevention. Methods A comprehensive search of seven databases was conducted for studies published before March 2025 that examined the relationship between exercise during pregnancy and the risk of GDM. All literature underwent a rigorous screening process based on pre-defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool. Data analysis, heterogeneity testing, publication bias assessment, and sensitivity analysis were performed using the Stata 17.0 software. Results (1) Meta-analysis revealed that the risk of GDM was significantly lower in the exercise intervention group compared to the conventional care group (OR 0.56, 95% CI = 0.44–0.71). (2) Subgroup analysis indicated that aerobic exercise (OR 0.40, 95% CI = 0.25–0.64), yoga (OR 0.19, 95% CI = 0.05–0.69), and diet and exercise guidance (OR 0.53, 95% CI = 0.37–0.76) significantly reduced the risk of GDM compared to the control group. Exercise intervention during pregnancy effectively reduced the risk of GDM in healthy individuals (OR 0.63, 95% CI = 0.43–0.93), overweight and/or obese individuals (OR 0.53, 95% CI = 0.36–0.79), and pregnant women at risk of GDM (OR 0.53, 95% CI = 0.34–0.82). Additionally, exercise intervention initiated in early pregnancy significantly prevented the development of GDM (OR 0.51, 95% CI = 0.39–0.68). (3) Network meta-analysis results demonstrated that yoga had the lowest surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA = 6.8%), suggesting that yoga was the most effective intervention in reducing the risk of GDM. Conclusion Various types of exercise, including yoga, aerobic exercise, and diet and exercise guidance, are effective in preventing GDM during pregnancy. Among these, yoga appears to be particularly promising and could be considered for inclusion in preventive care strategies for pregnant women. Trial registration The study was registered on the International Prospective Registry of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) database (CRD42024552641) on 10 June 2024.

Aim Long COVID (LC) presents significant challenges for working age individuals, leading to major inequalities in access to work, employment and relevant support. This study investigates the workplace support provided to people with Long COVID (PwLC) in the UK, focusing on their return-to-work (RTW) experiences. It encompasses perspectives from both PwLC and managers of PwLC. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 PwLC and two managers experienced in managing employees with LC. Inductive thematic analysis was performed using NVivo14. Findings This qualitative research explored barriers and facilitators to supporting PwLC’s RTW. LC is characterised by a wide range of mostly “invisible” and fluctuating symptoms and unpredictable recovery trajectories during which relapses can occur. Existing support mechanisms for RTW with LC include phased return, reduced hours, Occupational Health services, work adjustments, and government support. However, the study identified challenges in implementing these measures, such as unrealistic phased return plans, managers neglecting advice or guidance (e.g. from Occupational Health), unsuitable work adjustments and the burden of navigating government support. The financial impact of reduced hours or sick leave was one of the main reasons for returning to work. Both PwLC and managers highlighted significant gaps in knowledge, resources, policy and guidance for RTW support, emphasising the need for tailored support. Managers reported limited resources and inflexible policies as main challenges, which they addressed through creative solutions. Conclusion This qualitative study highlights potential barriers, challenges and gaps in supporting PwLC’s RTW. To ensure equitable access to work for PwLC, a flexible and personalised approach is crucial, given the variability in LC symptoms and recovery rates. RTW support that fails to accommodate these characteristics may exacerbate symptoms or cause relapses. A supportive work environment is essential, as LC symptoms can be invisible and concerns about stigma may prevent PwLC from communicating openly and seeking support. Lack of resources is a major barrier for managers in supporting PwLC. Effective government support can potentially fill this gap but must be well-designed and implemented to reduce the burden on applicants.

Background Airborne microbial communities, although often challenging to study due to low biomass, play crucial roles in public health and pathogen transmission. Through shotgun metagenomics, this study utilizes non-invasive air sampling of face masks and aircraft cabin filters to investigate microbial diversity in environments with frequent human interactions, including hospitals and airplanes. A comprehensive sampling and analysis workflow was developed, incorporating environmental and enrichment protocols to enhance microbial DNA recovery and diversity profiling. Results Despite limitations in biomass, optimized extraction methods allowed for the successful identification of 407 species, with dominant taxa including Cutibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Sphingomonas hankookensis, and Methylobacterium radiotolerans. Enrichment processing resulted in greater metagenome-assembled genome (MAG) recovery and higher antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) identification. Conclusions The findings highlight the presence of ARGs in high-occupancy public spaces, suggesting the importance of monitoring and the potential for mitigating airborne transmission risks in such environments. This study demonstrates the utility of combining environmental and enrichment sampling to capture comprehensive microbial and ARG profiles in confined spaces, providing a framework for enhanced pathogen monitoring in public health contexts. Video Abstract

Diagnosing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in general population settings is challengin

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Intimate partner violence (IPV) exposure is a chronic stressful condition that prevalently affects women’s health and quality of life. As a chronic s

Background Aging theory suggests that animals should reproduce early at a cost to longevity, leading to a fecundity-longevity trade-off. Social insects with long-lived reproductive queens and short-lived helper workers are notable exceptions, primarily attributed to selection on queen lifespan in the protected nest and increased extrinsic mortality of workers performing risky outside tasks. By creating different age groups of non-reproductive workers in an ant where workers can replace reproductive queens and by isolating single workers with and without helpers, we investigated the effect of age on reproductive and parenting abilities and the impact of help on reproductive worker lifespan. Results Isolated workers could become reproductive and raise offspring to adulthood despite commencing reproduction at ages twice the median lifespan of non-reproductive worker ants. Experimentally selected old workers converged with workers half the median age to a common lifespan maximum of about 600 days in the absence of worker help. However, most reproductive workers surviving beyond this point were associated with at least one helper worker and showed a marked lifespan increase. In a separate test, helper presence increased the median life-span at least 2.6-fold in single, isolated workers compared to helperless workers. Conclusions Helper presence may be a primary reason for the longevity differences between reproductive and non-reproductive individuals in social insects similar to cooperatively breeding birds and mammals while mechanisms associated with selection on queen lifespan have evolved secondarily. Contrary to many ant species with high extrinsic mortality, some with sexual reproduction invest in reproductive capacities until advanced age.

Exosomes, containing molecular constituents of their cell of origin, including proteins and nucleic acids, were first discovered in immature red blood cells in 1983. Excellent intercell communication can be achieved by shuttling these various molecules between cells. Stem cell-derived exosomes (SC-Exos) contain paracrine-soluble factors that play important roles in tissue development, homeostasis, and regeneration. This paracrine activity of SC-Exos has been found to be a predominant mechanism by which stem cell-based therapies mediate their effects on degenerative, autoimmune and/or inflammatory diseases. Compared to other types of stem cells, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) are the most popular because of their efficient immunomodulatory effects. The advantages and disadvantages of using exosomes isolated from the stem cell trio for therapeutic applications are further discussed in this review.

Background The high error rate associated with Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology adversely affects demultiplexing. To improve demultiplexing and reduce unclassified reads from nanopore sequencing data, we developed MysteryMaster, a demultiplexer that utilizes the optimal sequence aligner, Cola. Results When compared to Oxford Nanopore´s Dorado and Guppy demultiplexing tools across three datasets of 37 diverse samples with established ground truth, we found that MysteryMaster accurately identifies a similar or greater percentage of reads among the different basecalling models: Fast, HAC, and SUP. MysteryMaster performs slightly better than the other tools on data that was basecalled using the Fast basecalled model, while its performance in HAC and SUP data is similar to Dorado’s. MysteryMaster has a false positive rate of just 0.41% with default settings. Conclusions While MysteryMaster can function as a standalone demultiplexer tool, the sequential application of Dorado and MysteryMaster produced the best overall performance.