bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dropout rates in controlled trials with exergames for blood pressure management: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Lourenço Camilo Luis Monteiro , Barbosa Aline Rodrigues , Meneghini Vandrize , Gerage Aline Mendes
Published: May 2022

Exergame, a type of enjoyable active video game that combines physical exertion and game is a technological innovation that has generated important information for the health field. In the cardiovascular area, exergames have been used to manage blood pressure in adults with some positive results. Despite this, in primary studies, it is possible to identify that participants dropout of the exergames interventions, but no synthesis of evidence has been produced so far to explore that. The aims of this review are i) to estimate the pooled rate of dropouts in controlled trials assessing the effects of exergame-based interventions on resting blood pressure in adults and older people; ii) to compare dropout rates between exergame and controls groups, and iii) to investigate the intervention characteristics associate with dropout rates. Inclusion criteria: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs (≥ 4 weeks) assessing the effects of exergame-based interventions on resting blood pressure in adults aged ≥ 18 years old. Without restriction to language, date of the publication, and intervention setting. Literature searches will be conducted using PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scientific Electronic Library Online. The quality of the RCTs will be assessed using Cochrane’s risk of bias tool. A descriptive narrative synthesis and a random-effects model meta-analysis of the pooled event rate (prevalence) will be provided (p < 0.05). This protocol is registered with PROSPERO: CRD42020199547.
Forecasts of Prices and Informed Sensitivity Analysis: Applications in Project Valuations
Authors: Jafarizadeh Babak
Published: May 2022

From corporate budgeting to public planning, we hear that commodity prices are uncertain and that, when they vary, key investment measures sway with them. However, claiming that commodity prices are outside a firm’s domain of control, corporate decision makers tend to disregard this uncertainty or at best reflect it in naïve sensitivity analyses. Yet, firms should take in the understanding about key uncertain factors to avoid inferior decisions and loss of value. In this paper, we show that the customary practice of analysis with arbitrary “high” and “low” forecasts of prices is inconsistent with the general understanding about commodity price dynamics and the financial theory. To alleviate this, we develop consistent and project-specific forecast of prices that support valuations and decision making.
Undiscounted Recursive Path Choice Models: Convergence Properties and Algorithms
Authors: Mai Tien , Frejinger Emma
Published: May 2022

Traffic flow predictions are central to a wealth of problems in transportation. Path choice models can be used for this purpose, and in state-of-the-art models—so-called recursive path choice (RPC) models—the choice of a path is formulated as a sequential arc choice process using undiscounted Markov decision process (MDP) with an absorbing state. The MDP has a utility maximization objective with unknown parameters that are estimated based on data. The estimation and prediction using RPC models require repeatedly solving value functions that are solutions to the Bellman equation. Although there are several examples of successful applications of RPC models in the literature, the convergence of the value iteration method has not been studied. We aim to address this gap. For the two closed-form models in the literature—recursive logit (RL) and nested recursive logit (NRL)—we study the convergence properties of the value iteration method. In the case of the RL model, we show that the operator associated with the Bellman equation is a contraction under certain assumptions on the parameter values. On the contrary, the operator in the NRL case is not a contraction. Focusing on the latter, we study two algorithms designed to improve upon the basic value iteration method. Extensive numerical results based on two real data sets show that the least squares approach we propose outperforms two value iteration methods.
A vision for nursing research
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: May 2022

Sam Foster, Chief Nurse, Oxford University Hospitals, considers the challenges for institutions in picking up the Chief Nursing Officer's strategy for nursing involvement in research
Renewable Energy and Economic Efficiency in the Framework of Sustainable Development: Malmquist Index and Tobit Model
Authors: Bozkurt Eda
Published: May 2022

Today, energy is as important as labour, capital and technology for the growth of countries. As countries grow economically, they try to achieve the same or more amounts of output with fewer inputs. In other words, countries target efficiency based growth. As the economic growth of countries increases, their energy requirements also increase. Regarding countries that are not rich in domestic resources, this increase, imposes significant costs. On the other hand, the finite energy supply in countries rich in domestic resources is an important problem. That is why the phenomenon of renewable energy has become a trend all over the world. In addition to reducing import dependence on energy, new policies are required to reduce the effects of climate changes and to protect natural resources. That is why; renewable energy and economic efficiency are an attractive research area. In the study, efficiency scores were obtained by calculating the Malmquist total factor productivity index in the period 1992–2018 for 10 countries among the N11 countries. Then, the efficiency values obtained by using the two stage estimation method were used as the dependent variables. The test results based on Tobit regression indicated that the increase in the supply of renewable energy positively increases economic efficiency. It can be said that the supply of renewable energy will lead to economic efficiency in the future.
Passenger Transport Modal Mix by Incorporating Travel Behaviour: A Case Study of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Authors: Prajapati Anita , Bhattarai Nawraj , Bajracharya Tri Ratna
Published: May 2022

Most of the travel demand in developing countries is fulfilled by private vehicles dominated by 2-wheelers due to their affordability, accessibility, and availability, which has direct effects on energy, economy, and environment. To achieve sustainable transport, policies such as electric mobility and mass transport options have been implemented which are mainly focused on technology shift based on technology cost and environmental externalities. Transport modelling in this study was carried out using an additional attribute: travel time which shows the impact of travel behaviour on the optimal modal mix and the consequent impact on energy and emissions. The scenario-based approach using the travel time budget (TTB) concept was used using a bottom-up TIMES modelling framework. The scenario analysis shows the trade-off between the speed of the vehicle, available travel time, and sustainability in transport. The result suggests that the investment in rapid transit would be the potential future mode in Kathmandu valley.
The Impact of Green Finance on Clean Power Generation: Evidence Based on China
Authors: Yan Ziwei , Cui Chunying , Liao Chenjia
Published: May 2022

In order to test whether green finance at the provincial level can promote clean power generation (CPG) to promote clean power energy, this paper, based on the China provincial panel data from 2003 to 2018 and takes a sample of 30 provinces. The study finds that the credit supply in green finance can effectively promote CPG proportion. Furthermore, the promotion effect of CPG is more indeterminate in the provinces with large power output, while those with large power input are relatively small. This paper explains the above conclusions from the perspective of primary energy production and CPG structure: (1) Main new power generation capacity is clean energy in the huge energy consumption provinces, the effect of green finance is outstanding; (2) In provinces with the large coal-burning production, which are restricted by the industrial structure and energy structure, the effect of green finance on promoting CPG is not apparent, and the energy saving and emission reduction of traditional thermal power units are still the main focus.
A local area quantum teleportation network based on an array of electrically activated graphene waveguides
Authors: Asjad Muhammad , Qasymeh Montasir , Eleuch Hichem
Published: May 2022

We present a scheme to generate a continuous variable (CV) multipartite entangled state using an array of plasmonic graphene waveguides that are activated by nonclassical driving microwave modes. Within this scheme, we can exploit the interaction of two light fields coupled to the same microwave mode in each waveguide to produce any type of multipartite Gaussian entangled state. A teleportation network is illustrated using the resultant CV multipartite entangled state. In particular, the proposed setup enables coherent state teleportation across remotely connected nodes with fidelity above a threshold limit of 2/3, providing secure quantum teleportation networking even in the presence of losses.
Coherence–orbital angular momentum matrix of Schell-model sources
Authors: Wang Fei , Yang Zhaohui , Chen Yahong , Korotkova Olga , Cai Yangjian
Published: May 2022

The coherence–orbital angular momentum (COAM) matrix characterizes the second-order field correlations in stationary sources or fields, at a pair of spiral modes with the same or different topological charges, say l and m, and at a pair of radial positions. In this Letter, we reveal the general properties of the COAM matrix for the broad class of the Schell-model sources with circularly symmetric spectral densities. Our results imply that the structure of the COAM matrix is intimately related to the symmetries of the degree of coherence (DOC). In particular, the COAM matrix is diagonal if the DOC is real-valued and rotationally symmetric; otherwise, it may acquire non-zero off diagonal elements. In particular, if the real part of the DOC has Cartesian symmetry, the COAM matrix’s elements with the even/odd index difference |l − m| contain information about the real/imaginary part of the DOC. A potential application of our results is envisioned for extracting the rotation angle of the DOC of light (or an object transparency) through measuring of the off-axis COAM matrix elements.
A hominoid-specific endogenous retrovirus may have rewired the gene regulatory network shared between primordial germ cells and naïve pluripotent cells
Authors: Ito Jumpei , Seita Yasunari , Kojima Shohei , Parrish Nicholas F. , Sasaki Kotaro , Sato Kei
Published: May 2022

Mammalian germ cells stem from primordial germ cells (PGCs). Although the gene regulatory network controlling the development of germ cells such as PGCs is critical for ensuring gamete integrity, substantial differences exist in this network among mammalian species, suggesting that this network has been modified during mammalian evolution. Here, we show that a hominoid-specific group of endogenous retroviruses, LTR5_Hs, discloses enhancer-like signatures in human in vitro-induced PGCs, PGC-like cells (PGCLCs). Human PGCLCs exhibit a transcriptome signature similar to that of naïve-state pluripotent cells. LTR5_Hs are epigenetically activated in both PGCLCs and naïve pluripotent cells, and the expression of genes in the vicinity of LTR5_Hs is coordinately upregulated in these cell types, contributing to the establishment of the transcriptome similarity between these cell types. LTR5_Hs are preferentially bound by transcription factors that are highly expressed in both PGCLCs and naïve pluripotent cells (KLF4, TFAP2C, NANOG, and CBFA2T2), suggesting that these transcription factors contribute to the epigenetic activation of LTR5_Hs in these cells. Comparative transcriptome analysis between humans and macaques suggests that the expression of many genes in PGCLCs and naïve pluripotent cells is upregulated by LTR5_Hs insertions in the hominoid lineage. Together, this study suggests that LTR5_Hs insertions may have finetuned the gene regulatory network shared between PGCLCs and naïve pluripotent cells and coordinately altered the gene expression in these cells during hominoid evolution.
Incidence of chikungunya virus infections among Kenyan children with neurological disease, 2014–2018: A cohort study
Authors: Nyamwaya Doris K. , Otiende Mark , Mwango Lilian , Kariuki Symon M. , Otieno Berrick , Omuoyo Donwilliams O. , Githinji George , Kitsao Barnes S. , Karanja Henry K. , Gitonga John N. , de Laurent Zaydah R. , Davies Alun , Mwarumba Salim , Agoti Charles N. , Thumbi Samuel M. , Hamaluba Mainga M. , Newton Charles R. , Bejon Philip , Warimwe George M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Neurological complications due to chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection have been described in different parts of the world, with children being disproportionately affected. However, the burden of CHIKV-associated neurological disease in Africa is currently unknown and given the lack of diagnostic facilities in routine care it is possible that CHIKV is an unrecognized etiology among children with encephalitis or other neurological illness.

Methods and findings

We estimated the incidence of CHIKV infection among children hospitalized with neurological disease in Kilifi County, coastal Kenya. We used reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to systematically test for CHIKV in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from children aged <16 years hospitalized with symptoms of neurological disease at Kilifi County Hospital between January 2014 and December 2018. Clinical records were linked to the Kilifi Health and Demographic Surveillance System and population incidence rates of CHIKV infection estimated. There were 18,341 pediatric admissions for any reason during the 5-year study period, of which 4,332 (24%) had CSF collected. The most common clinical reasons for CSF collection were impaired consciousness, seizures, and coma (47%, 22%, and 21% of all collections, respectively). After acute investigations done for immediate clinical care, CSF samples were available for 3,980 admissions, of which 367 (9.2%) were CHIKV RT-PCR positive. Case fatality among CHIKV-positive children was 1.4% (95% CI 0.4, 3.2). The annual incidence of CHIKV-associated neurological disease varied between 13 to 58 episodes per 100,000 person-years among all children <16 years old. Among children aged <5 years, the incidence of CHIKV-associated neurological disease was 77 per 100,000 person-years, compared with 20 per 100,000 for cerebral malaria and 7 per 100,000 for bacterial meningitis during the study period. Because of incomplete case ascertainment due to children not presenting to hospital, or not having CSF collected, these are likely minimum estimates. Study limitations include reliance on hospital-based surveillance and limited CSF sampling in children in coma or other contraindications to lumbar puncture, both of which lead to under-ascertainment of incidence and of case fatality.

Conclusions

In this study, we observed that CHIKV infections are relatively more common than cerebral malaria and bacterial meningitis among children hospitalized with neurological disease in coastal Kenya. Given the wide distribution of CHIKV mosquito vectors, studies to determine the geographic extent of CHIKV-associated neurological disease in Africa are essential.
Leptospirosis: Morbidity, mortality, and spatial distribution of hospitalized cases in Ecuador. A nationwide study 2000-2020
Authors: Calvopiña Manuel , Vásconez Eduardo , Coral-Almeida Marco , Romero-Alvarez Daniel , Garcia-Bereguiain Miguel Angel , Orlando Alberto
Published: May 2022

Background

In Ecuador, leptospirosis surveillance involves a mandatory notification of all cases and a hospitalization for severe illness. Morbidity and mortality are, nevertheless, underestimated and contribute directly to the status of leptospirosis as a neglected disease. Leptospira spp. is zoonotic in Ecuador with established endemic transmission in the Tropics. Here, we review retrospective national data within the country to aid in control strategies.

Methodology/Principal findings

In a population-based nationwide study, we analysed morbidity, mortality, and spatial distribution on confirmed hospital-discharged leptospirosis cases from 2000–2020 from a publicly accesible National Database, including males and females of all ages. We computed data for the 24 provinces across the four-geoclimatic regions of Ecuador based on seasonal and monthly variations and calculated rates according to age and sex. The spatial distribution was estimated at the level of ecoregions, provinces, and cantons. A total of 2,584 hospitalizations were recorded over all three continental regions in 22 provinces, except Carchi province and the Galapagos Islands. The annual incidence varied from 0.27 to 2.45 cases per 100,000 inhabitants with ages ranging from 1 to 98 years-old and an overall male/female ratio of 1.92:1. Most hospitalizations and deaths occurred in males ages 25–34 years. We registered 79 fatalities (3.06%); the highest mortality rate was 0.05 per 100,000 inhabitants. More cases clustered in the tropical cantons of central and north of the Coast and in the southern Amazon when compared to the Andes.

Conclusions and significance

Our findings evidence leptospirosis endemicity and pinpoint the highest incidence within resource-poor tropical settings. The highest incidence occurred in males of adult age, with those also exhibiting the highest mortality. The national incidence rate was stable, but peaks occurred intermittently during the rainy seasons. Thus, strategies aimed at leptospirosis monitoring and control involving the application of preventive measures should consider this season and the aforementioned high-risk groups.
Testing and validation of reciprocating positive displacement pump for benchtop pulsating flow model of cerebrospinal fluid production and other physiologic systems
Authors: Faryami Ahmad , Menkara Adam , Viar Daniel , Harris Carolyn A.
Published: May 2022

Background

The flow of physiologic fluids through organs and organs systems is an integral component of their function. The complex fluid dynamics in many organ systems are still not completely understood, and in-vivo measurements of flow rates and pressure provide a testament to the complexity of each flow system. Variability in in-vivo measurements and the lack of control over flow characteristics leave a lot to be desired for testing and evaluation of current modes of treatments as well as future innovations. In-vitro models are particularly ideal for studying neurological conditions such as hydrocephalus due to their complex pathophysiology and interactions with therapeutic measures. The following aims to present the reciprocating positive displacement pump, capable of inducing pulsating flow of a defined volume at a controlled beat rate and amplitude. While the other fluidic applications of the pump are currently under investigation, this study was focused on simulating the pulsating cerebrospinal fluid production across profiles with varying parameters.

Methods

Pumps were manufactured using 3D printed and injection molded parts. The pumps were powered by an Arduino-based board and proprietary software that controls the linear motion of the pumps to achieve the specified output rate at the desired pulsation rate and amplitude. A range of 0.01 mlmin to 0.7 mlmin was tested to evaluate the versatility of the pumps. The accuracy and precision of the pumps’ output were evaluated by obtaining a total of 150 one-minute weight measurements of degassed deionized water per output rate across 15 pump channels. In addition, nine experiments were performed to evaluate the pumps’ control over pulsation rate and amplitude.

Results

Volumetric analysis of a total of 1200 readings determined that the pumps achieved the target output volume rate with a mean absolute error of -0.001034283 mlmin across the specified domain. It was also determined that the pumps can maintain pulsatile flow at a user-specified beat rate and amplitude.

Conclusion

The validation of this reciprocating positive displacement pump system allows for the future validation of novel designs to components used to treat hydrocephalus and other physiologic models involving pulsatile flow. Based on the promising results of these experiments at simulating pulsatile CSF flow, a benchtop model of human CSF production and distribution could be achieved through the incorporation of a chamber system and a compliance component.
Inequalities in COVID-19 inequalities research: Who had the capacity to respond?
Authors: Benach Joan , Cash-Gibson Lucinda , Rojas-Gualdrón Diego F. , Padilla-Pozo Álvaro , Fernández-Gracia Juan , Eguíluz Víctor M. ,   the COVID-SHINE group
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has been testing countries’ capacities and scientific preparedness to actively respond and collaborate on a common global threat. It has also heightened awareness of the urgent need to empirically describe and analyze health inequalities to be able to act effectively. In turn, this raises several important questions that need answering: What is known about the rapidly emerging COVID-19 inequalities research field? Which countries and world regions have been able to rapidly produce research on this topic? What research patterns and trends have emerged, and how to these compared to the (pre-COVID-19) global health inequalities research field? Which countries have been scientifically collaborating on this important topic? Where are the scientific knowledge gaps, and indirectly where might research capacities need to be strengthened? In order to answer these queries, we analyzed the global scientific production (2020–2021) on COVID-19 associated inequalities by conducting bibliometric and network analyses using the Scopus database. Specifically, we analyzed the volume of scientific production per country (via author affiliations), its distribution by country income groups and world regions, as well as the inter-country collaborations within this production. Our results indicate that the COVID-19 inequalities research field has been highly collaborative; however, a number of significant inequitable research practices exist. When compared to the (pre-COVID-19) global health inequalities research field, similar inequalities were identified, however, several new dynamics and partnerships have also emerged that warrant further in-depth exploration. To ensure preparedness for future crises, and effective strategies to tackle growing social inequalities in health, investment in global health inequalities research capacities must be a priority for all.
COVID-19 vaccination readiness among multiple racial and ethnic groups in the San Francisco Bay Area: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Butler Jonathan Z. , Carson Mariam , Rios-Fetchko Francine , Vargas Roberto , Cabrera Abby , Gallegos-Castillo Angela , LeSarre Monique , Liao Michael , Woo Kent , Ellis Randi , Liu Kirsten , Burra Arun , Ramirez Mario , Doyle Brittney , Leung Lydia , Fernandez Alicia , Grumbach Kevin
Published: May 2022

Background

COVID-19 vaccination rates are lower among historically marginalized populations, including Black/African American and Latinx populations, threatening to contribute to already high COVID-19 morbidity and mortality disparities for these groups. We conducted a community-based participatory research study using qualitative methods to explore knowledge and beliefs about COVID-19 vaccination among Black/African American, Latinx, and Chinese American residents of the San Francisco Bay Area and assess their views on vaccination outreach and delivery strategies.

Methods and findings

Data were collected from January 14, 2021, to February 24, 2021, with adult residents (N = 109 [Female: N = 76; 70%]) in San Francisco. Focus groups (N = 10) and in-depth interviews (N = 25) were conducted among Black/African Americans (N = 35), Latinx (N = 40), and Chinese Americans (n = 34) in English, Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Themes were identified using grounded field theory, and included misinformation, mistrust of government and health institutions, and linguistic and other barriers to vaccine access. All three racial/ethnic groups had experiences with vaccine misinformation and information overload. Many African American and Latinx participants cited structural and interpersonal racism, and anti-immigrant discrimination, as factors reducing their trust in government and public health disseminated information and their willingness to be vaccinated. Participants expressed trust in community-based organizations, including faith-based organizations and community-run clinics. Participants often experienced barriers to vaccine access, such as transportation to drive-in sites, with Latinx and Chinese American groups also frequently citing language barriers.

Conclusions

Vaccine outreach strategies must acknowledge how longstanding systemic, institutional, and structural racism contributes to mistrust in government and health institutions and engage with and support trusted messengers from the community to eliminate cultural, linguistic, and other barriers to vaccine access.
How does digital technology affect manufacturing upgrading? Theory and evidence from China
Authors: Fu Qingwei
Published: May 2022

Digital technology becomes the new engine of manufacturing upgrading. The article brings digital technology and manufacturing in global value chain into the same analytical framework, measures development level of digital technology by using World Input-Output Database data, Theoretical analysis shows that impact of digital technology on manufacturing upgrading has innovation effect, resource allocation effect and penetration effect. Empirical test results show that (1) Digital technology level index of China’s manufacturing industry increased from 0.286 in 2001 to 0.359 in 2014, The effect of digital technology on upgrading of Chinese manufacturing industry is significant positive at 5% level with influence coefficient of 0.129; Distinguish digital technology sources found that domestic digital technology is used in a large proportion, foreign digital technology is more efficient, the influence coefficients are 0.124 and 0.703 respectively, and both promote upgrading of manufacturing industry; (2) The role of digital technology varies among industries. The promotion effect on capital intensive industries and technology intensive industries is positive at 5% level, and influence coefficients are 0.124 and 0.108 respectively. It has significant positive impact on low-to-medium and medium-to-high technology manufacturing at 1% level with influence coefficients of 0.177 and 0.138 respectively. Therefore, China needs to accelerate deep integration of digital technology and manufacturing industry, and climb to the middle and high end of global value chain.
HMOX1 genetic polymorphisms and outcomes in infectious disease: A systematic review
Authors: Hamilton Fergus W. , Somers Julia , Mitchell Ruth E. , Ghazal Peter , Timpson Nicholas J.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Heme-oxygenase 1 (HMOX1) is a critical stress response gene that catalyzes the multistep oxidation of heme. A GT(n) repeat of variable length in the promoter in has been associated with a wide range of human diseases, including infections. This paper aims to summarise and systematically review associations between the length of the HMOX1 GT(n) promoter and infectious disease in humans.

Methods

A search using relevant terms was performed in PubMED and EMBASE through to 15/01/21 identifying all research that studied an association between the HMOX1 GT(n) repeat polymorphism and the incidence and/or outcome of any human infectious disease. Citations were screened for additional studies. Potential studies were screened for inclusion by two authors. Data was extracted on allele frequency, genotype, strength of association, mechanism of genotyping, and potential biases. A narrative review was performed across each type of infection.

Results

1,533 studies were identified in the search, and one via citation screening. Sixteen studies were ultimately included, seven in malaria, three in HIV, three in sepsis, and one each in pneumonia, hepatitis C, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Sample sizes for nearly all studies were small (biggest study, n = 1,646). Allelic definition was different across all included studies. All studies were at some risk of bias. In malaria, three studies suggested that longer alleles were associated with reduced risk of severe malaria, particularly malaria-induced renal dysfunction, with four studies identifying a null association. In sepsis, two studies suggested an association with longer alleles and better outcomes.

Conclusions

Despite the importance of HMOX1 in survival from infection, and the association between repeat length and gene expression, the clinical data supporting an association between repeat length and incidence and/or outcome of infection remain inconclusive.
Factors associated with change in adherence to COVID-19 personal protection measures in the Metropolitan Region, Chile
Authors: Varas Simón , Elorrieta Felipe , Vargas Claudio , Villalobos Dintrans Pablo , Castillo Claudio , Martinez Yerko , Ayala Andrés , Maddaleno Matilde
Published: May 2022

Personal protective measures such use of face masks, hand washing and physical distancing have proven to be effective in controlling the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, adherence to these measures may have been relaxed over time. The objective of this work is to assess the change in adherence to these measures and to find factors that explain the change For this purpose, we conducted a survey in the Metropolitan Region of Chile in which we asked the adherence to these measures in August-September 2021 and retrospectively for 2020. With the answers obtained we fit a logistic regression model in which the response variable is the relaxation of each of the self-care preventive actions. The explanatory variables used are socio-demographic characteristics such as the age, sex, income, and vaccination status of the respondents. The results obtained show that there has been a significant decrease in adherence to the three personal protection measures in the Metropolitan Region of Chile. In addition, it was observed that younger people are more likely to relax these measures. The results show the importance of generating new incentives for maintaining adherence to personal protection measures.
It’s Time to be disgusting about COVID-19: Effect of disgust priming on COVID-19 public health compliance among liberals and conservatives
Authors: Mermin-Bunnell Kellen , Ahn Woo-kyoung
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, in part due to poor adoption of public health mitigation measures in the U.S. and the continued spread of the Delta and Omicron variants. Current public health messaging used in the U.S. could be improved to better combat mistrust about COVID-19 and its mitigation measures, especially vaccines. We propose that a disgust-inducing public health campaign will be more effective than current approaches, primarily among conservatives, who are both sensitive to moralized disgust and are less compliant with U.S. public health guidelines. Using a convenience sample across two studies (n = 1610), we found that presenting disgusting images related to the COVID-19 pandemic increased public health compliance more among conservatives than among liberals. Among unvaccinated conservative participants, disgusting images significantly increased willingness to be vaccinated compared to less disgusting images of COVID-19 or perks offered for COVID-19 vaccines. Using disgusting images for public health messaging has the potential to improve compliance among conservatives and accelerate the end of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S.
Embryonic and aglomerular kidney development in the bay pipefish, Syngnathus leptorhynchus
Authors: Maters Bianca R. , Stevenson Emily , Vize Peter D.
Published: May 2022

In this report we describe the embryogenesis of the bay pipefish, Syngnathus leptorhynchus, and the organogenesis of its aglomerular kidney. Early development was analyzed via a series of montages and images documenting embryos collected from the brood pouches of pregnant males. Despite differences in terminal morphology between pipefish and common teleost models such as medaka and zebrafish, the embryogenesis of these highly advanced fishes is generally similar to that of other fishes. One of the unique features of these fishes is their utilization of an aglomerular kidney. Histological analysis revealed a single long, unbranched kidney tubule in late embryos. The development and structure of this organ was further investigated by cloning the sodium potassium ATPase alpha subunit, atp1a, from S. leptorhynchus and developing whole mount fluorescent in situ hybridization protocols for embryos of this species. Fluorescent stereoscopic and confocal visualization techniques were then used to characterize the 3D morphology of aglomerular kidneys in intact embryos. In all embryonic stages characterized, the aglomerular kidney is a single unbranched tube extending from just behind the head to the cloaca.
Implementation of prediction models in the emergency department from an implementation science perspective—Determinants, outcomes and real-world impact: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Chan Sze Ling , Lee Jin Wee , Ong Marcus Eng Hock , Siddiqui Fahad Javaid , Graves Nicholas , Ho Andrew Fu Wah , Liu Nan
Published: May 2022

The number of prediction models developed for use in emergency departments (EDs) have been increasing in recent years to complement traditional triage systems. However, most of these models have only reached the development or validation phase, and few have been implemented in clinical practice. There is a gap in knowledge on the real-world performance of prediction models in the ED and how they can be implemented successfully into routine practice. Existing reviews of prediction models in the ED have also mainly focused on model development and validation. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize the current landscape and understanding of implementation of predictions models in the ED. This scoping review follows the Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. We will include studies that report implementation outcomes and/or contextual determinants according to the RE-AIM/PRISM framework for prediction models used in EDs. We will include outcomes or contextual determinants studied at any point of time in the implementation process except for effectiveness, where only post-implementation results will be included. Conference abstracts, theses and dissertations, letters to editors, commentaries, non-research documents and non-English full-text articles will be excluded. Four databases (MEDLINE (through PubMed), Embase, Scopus and CINAHL) will be searched from their inception using a combination of search terms related to the population, intervention and outcomes. Two reviewers will independently screen articles for inclusion and any discrepancy resolved with a third reviewer. Results from included studies will be summarized narratively according to the RE-AIM/PRISM outcomes and domains. Where appropriate, a simple descriptive summary of quantitative outcomes may be performed.
Postoperative avascular necrosis of the femoral head in pediatric femoral neck fractures
Authors: Li Yang , Sun Dong , Wang Kelai , Liu Jingwei , Wang Zhe , Liu Yu
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the relevant factors of postoperative avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN) in children with femoral neck fracture. This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 28 children with femoral neck fractures treated at our center between July 2016 and January 2019. The average age was 9.3 (range, 4.4–14) years with 75% male participants. Fracture classification was based on the Delbet classification: there were four, seven, 15, and two cases of type I, II, III, and IV fractures, respectively. Displacement degree was based on the Garden classification. Sixteen cases had insignificant displacement (Garden types I and II), six had medium displacement (Garden type III), and six had significant displacement (Garden type IV). There were six early (≤24 hours) and 22 delayed (>24 hours) surgeries. Twenty-three patients had satisfactory reduction, and five had unsatisfactory reduction. The mean postoperative follow-up period was 15.7 (range, 12–36) months. Follow-up was evaluated using the Ratliff scoring standards. The correlation between age, fracture classification, displacement degree, surgery timing, reduction quality, and other factors and AVN occurrence was statistically analyzed. Among 28 children, AVN was found in six cases. There were statistically significant differences in displacement degree (P = 0.001) and reduction quality (P = 0.001), while the occurrence of AVN did not significantly differ with sex (P = 0.117), age distribution (P = 0.218), fracture classification (P = 0.438), surgery timing (P = 0.255), and mechanism of injury (P = 0.436). The results of logistic regression analysis showed that displacement degree was a relevant risk factor (P = 0.049, odds ratio [OR] = 8.391, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.004−70.117), while reduction quality was not (P = 0.075, OR = 14.536, 95% CI: 0.757−278.928). Although the development of AVN in children with femoral neck fractures may be related to many factors, the results of this research suggest that there is a significant correlation between displacement degree and AVN occurrence.
Postural control of the trunk in individuals with and without low back pain during unstable sitting: A protocol for a systematic review with an individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Alshehri Mansour Abdullah , van den Hoorn Wolbert , Klyne David M. , Hodges Paul W.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Postural control of the trunk is critical for performance of everyday activities and the health of spinal tissues. Although some studies report that individuals with low back pain (LBP) have poorer/compromised postural control than pain-free individuals when sitting on an unstable surface, others do not. Analyses commonly lack the statistical power to evaluate the relevance of features that could impact the performance of postural control, such as sex, age, anthropometrics, pain intensity or disability. This paper outlines a protocol for a systematic review with an individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis that aims to synthesise the evidence and evaluate differences of postural control measures between individuals with and without LBP during unstable sitting.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review with IPD meta-analysis will be conducted according to PRISMA-IPD guidelines. To identify relevant studies, electronic databases and the reference lists of included articles will be screened. Unstable seat movements are derived from centre of pressure (CoP) data using a force plate or angle of the seat using motion systems/sensors. The comprehensiveness of reporting and methodological quality of included studies will be assessed. Analysis will involve a descriptive analysis to synthesise the findings of all included studies and a quantitative synthesis using two-stage IPD meta-analysis of studies that include both individuals with and without LBP for which IPD set can be obtained from authors. Analyses will include consideration of confounding variables.

Ethics

Exemption from ethical approval was obtained for this review (University of Queensland, ID: 2019003026).

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO ID: CRD42021124658.
Uncovering in vivo biochemical patterns from time-series metabolic dynamics
Authors: Wu Yue , Judge Michael T. , Edison Arthur S. , Arnold Jonathan
Published: May 2022

System biology relies on holistic biomolecule measurements, and untangling biochemical networks requires time-series metabolomics profiling. With current metabolomic approaches, time-series measurements can be taken for hundreds of metabolic features, which decode underlying metabolic regulation. Such a metabolomic dataset is untargeted with most features unannotated and inaccessible to statistical analysis and computational modeling. The high dimensionality of the metabolic space also causes mechanistic modeling to be rather cumbersome computationally. We implemented a faster exploratory workflow to visualize and extract chemical and biochemical dependencies. Time-series metabolic features (about 300 for each dataset) were extracted by Ridge Tracking-based Extract (RTExtract) on measurements from continuousin vivomonitoring of metabolism by NMR (CIVM-NMR) inNeurospora crassaunder different conditions. The metabolic profiles were then smoothed and projected into lower dimensions, enabling a comparison of metabolic trends in the cultures. Next, we expanded incomplete metabolite annotation using a correlation network. Lastly, we uncovered meaningful metabolic clusters by estimating dependencies between smoothed metabolic profiles. We thus sidestepped the processes of time-consuming mechanistic modeling, difficult global optimization, and labor-intensive annotation. Multiple clusters guided insights into central energy metabolism and membrane synthesis. Dense connections with glucose 1-phosphate indicated its central position in metabolism inN.crassa. Our approach was benchmarked on simulated random network dynamics and provides a novel exploratory approach to analyzing high-dimensional metabolic dynamics.
Can 17 hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P) decrease preterm deliveries in patients with a history of PMC or pPROM?
Authors: Cohen Gal , Shavit Maya , Miller Netanella , Moran Rimon , Yagur Yael , Weitzner Omer , Ovadia Michal , Schreiber Hanoch , Shechter-Maor Gil , Biron-Shental Tal
Published: May 2022

Background

A history of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) is a significant risk factor for recurrence. Intra-muscular-7α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P) has been the preventive treatment of choice until the recent “Prolong study” that reported no benefit.

Objective

To determine the benefit of (17P) treatment in preventing reoccurrence of sPTB, by evaluating two presenting symptoms of the first sPTB: premature contractions (PMC) and preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM).

Study design

This retrospective study included 342 women with a previous singleton sPTB followed by a subsequent pregnancy. sPTB were either due to PMC (n = 145) or pPROM (n = 197). During the subsequent pregnancy, 90 (26.3%) patients received 250 mg 17P IM. Each presenting symptom–PMC or pPROM–was evaluated within itself comparing treated vs. untreated groups. Data were analyzed using t-test, Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test. Logistic regression analysis was also performed.

Results

Patients treated with 17P in the subsequent pregnancy had delivered earlier in the previous pregnancy (33.4w vs. 35.3w in the PMC group, and 34.1w vs. 35.7w in the pPROM group, p<0.001). In the following pregnancy, they had higher admission rates due to suspected preterm labor (31.7% vs. 10.9% in the treated vs. untreated PMC group (p = 0.003) and 26.1% vs. 5.4% in the treated vs. untreated pPROM group (p<0.001). In both groups, but more prominently in the previous PMC group, treatment compared to non-treatment in the subsequent pregnancy significantly prolonged it (4.3w vs. 2.6w in the PMC group (p = 0.007), and 3.7w vs. 2.7w in the pPROM group (p = 0.018)).

The presenting symptom of sPTB in the following pregnancy tended to recur in cases of another sPTB, with a significantly greater likelihood of repeating the sPTB mechanism in cases with PMC, regardless of receiving 17P (69% in the PMC cohort and 60% in the pPROM cohort, p<0.001).

Conclusions

17P might delay preterm delivery in patients with a previous sPTB on an individual level (prolongation of the pregnancy for each patient compared to her previous delivery). Therefore, our results imply that 17P can decrease potential premature delivery complications for patients with a previous sPTB due to PMC or pPROM.
A comparison of attitudes and knowledge of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) between hospital and Key Population Led Health Service providers: Lessons for Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage implementation
Authors: Rayanakorn Ajaree , Chautrakarn Sineenart , Intawong Kannikar , Chariyalertsak Chonlisa , Khemngern Porntip , Olson Debra , Chariyalertsak Suwat
Published: May 2022

Background

HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has demonstrated efficacy and effectiveness among high-risk populations. In Thailand, PrEP has been included in the National Guidelines on HIV/AIDS Treatment and Prevention since 2014. As a part of the national monitoring and evaluation framework for Thailand’s universal coverage inclusion, this cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess knowledge of, attitudes to and practice (KAP) of PrEP service providers in Thailand.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey to explore knowledge of, and attitudes towards PrEP among providers from hospital and Key Population Led Health Services (KPLHS) settings. The questionnaire was distributed online in July 2020. Descriptive and univariate analysis using an independent-sample t-test were applied in the analyses. Attitudes were ranked from the most negative (score of 1) to the most positive (score of 5).

Results

Overall, there were 196 respondents (158 from hospitals and 38 from KPLHS) in which most hospital providers are female nurse practitioners while half of those from KPLHS report current gender as gay. Most respondents report a high level of PrEP knowledge and support provision in all high-risk groups with residual concern regarding anti-retroviral drugs resistance. Over two-fifths of providers from both settings perceive that PrEP would result in risk compensation and half of KPLHS providers are concerned regarding risk of sexual transmitted infections. Limited PrEP counselling time is a challenge for hospital providers.

Conclusions

Service integration between both settings, more involvement and distribution of KPLHS in reaching key populations would be essential in optimizing PrEP uptake and retention. Continuing support particularly in raising awareness about PrEP among healthcare providers and key populations, facilities and manpower, unlimited quota of patient recruitment and PrEP training to strengthen providers’ confidence and knowledge would be essential for successful PrEP implementation.
Mikoleta eta Sainthillen eskuizkribuen azterketa konparatua
Authors: Ibarra Irune , Hidalgo Eizagirre Bittor
Published: May 2022

Artikulu honetan, 1653. urteko Modo Breve izeneko dokumentua nork eskuizkribatu zuen argitu nahi da. Orain arte Rafael Mikoletaren eskuz eginikoa dela pentsatu izan da. Berriki, ordea, Samuel Sainthill Ingalaterrako jaunaren eskuizkribu bat eskuratu ahal izan dugu, eta zalantza areagotu Modo Breve bera noren eskutik egina den. Auzia argitzeko, azterketa konparatu bat egiten da, grafoskopian erabiltzen den metodo grafonomikoaren bidez; hau da, letren forma, idatziaren ezaugarri orokorrak eta keinu-tipoak aztertu dira. Ondorio nagusi bezala, baiezta daiteke 1653. urteko eskuizkribuaren ezaugarriak Sainthillen idatziaren antzekoak direla, eta ez Mikoletarenaren antzekoak. Azkenik, baieztapen hau ikertzen jarraitzeko bideak proposatzen dira.