bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural factors related to childhood and adolescent obesity in Mexico: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Aceves‐Martins Magaly , López‐Cruz Lizet , García‐Botello Marcela , Godina‐Flores Naara L. , Gutierrez‐Gómez Yareni Yunuen , Moreno‐García Carlos Francisco
Published: May 2022

Culture and culturally specific beliefs or practices may influence perceptions and decisions, potentially contributing to childhood obesity. The objective of this study is to identify the cultural factors (expressed through decisions, behaviors, individual experiences, perceptions, attitudes, or views) related to childhood and adolescent obesity in Mexico. Ten databases and one search engine were searched from 1995 onwards for qualitative studies. The Sunrise Enabler Model, described within the Cultural Care Theory, guided this review. Sample, the phenomenon of interest, study design, and evaluation data were extracted, and the Critical Appraisals Skills Programme tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Twenty‐four studies were included. Of these, 12 studies included children or adolescents, 12 included parents, eight included schoolteachers, four included school staff (other than teachers), four included food vendors, and one included policymakers. Cultural values, beliefs, lifeways (especially food and food costumes), kinship, and social factors (particularly immediate and extended family) strongly influenced childhood and adolescent obesity‐related lifestyles in Mexico. Most cultural factors related to childhood obesity in Mexico identified in this review may be modifiable and amenable to practical interventions.
Evaluation of implant stability and bone loss using two different early loading protocols: Clinical study
Authors: Alassah Ghina , Darwich Khaldoun , Alkhouli Muaaz , Al‐Nerabieah Zuhair
Published: May 2022

Aim

The goal of this study was to evaluate how early loading of dental implants, both functional and non‐functional, can affect the stability of the implants, marginal bone resorption after 1 year of follow‐up.

Material and Methods

The research sample consisted of 24 implants placed on patients aged between 21 and 62 years (the mean age 51 years). Implants were placed at one surgical stage in the posterior area of the mandible. Then implants were loaded early after 6 weeks of implantation. The sample was divided randomly into two equal main groups according to loading types, 12 implants in the early functional loading (EFL) group and 12 implants in the early non‐functional loading (ENFL) group. The implant stability quotient was registered using Osstell Mentor at the implant placement procedure and after 6 and 12 weeks. The mean marginal bone loss around the implants was measured using the periapical radiographs after 3 and 12 months. The mean values were calculated and statistically analysed using the two‐sample t‐test with 95%confidenence interval p < 0.05).

Result

The mean values of implant stability quotient (ISQ) were 72.91–73.87–76.75 in the EFL and 71.91–73.91–76.66 in the ENFL, at the implant placement procedure and 6, 12 weeks respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the two groups. At the 12‐month post‐loading follow‐up, the mean marginal bone loss was 0.698 for the EFL group and 0.683 for the ENFL group. There was no statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the two groups. The implant survival rate was 100% in both groups, and there was no complication during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

This study showed that there is no difference in the implant stability quotient (ISQ) and bone loss between the early functional loading group and the early non‐functional loading group.
Efficacy and safety of cervicothoracic epidural blood patch for patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension
Authors: Hsu Chieh‐Min , Liu Yu‐Cheng , Chen Ying‐Chu , Fuh Jong‐Ling , Huang Hui‐Chun , Wang Yen‐Feng , Chiang I‐Ying , Wen Yeong‐Ray
Published: May 2022

Background

Epidural blood patch (EBP) is a generally effective treatment for spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) caused by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage through the spinal dura mater. It is still unclear; however, whether application near the leakage site (targeted EBP) is more effective than distal application (untargeted EBP). Further, EBP targeted to high thoracic or cervical spine levels is infrequent due to greater technical requirements and potential complications. Here, we examined the safety and efficacy of EBP applied to high thoracic or cervical spine levels.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and outcome data of 13 patients receiving cervical or high thoracic EBP for SIH. All patients were referred by neurologists following poor response to conservative treatment and presented with persistent headache aggravated by orthostatic changes.

Results

Neuroimaging confirmed CSF leakage and targeted EBP resulted in immediate pain improvement. Repeated injections provided additional improvement for patients with recurrent headache. No serious adverse events were documented during follow‐up.

Conclusion

Based on recent studies and our clinical experience, we conclude that EBP targeted to the high thoracic and cervical spine is safe and effective for early‐stage SIH.
Ubiquitin ligase OsRINGzf1 regulates drought resistance by controlling the turnover of OsPIP2;1
Authors: Chen Shoujun , Xu Kai , Kong Deyan , Wu Lunying , Chen Qian , Ma Xiaosong , Ma Siqi , Li Tianfei , Xie Qi , Liu Hongyan , Luo Lijun
Published: May 2022

Water is crucial for plant growth and survival. The transcellular water movement is facilitated by aquaporins (AQPs) that rapidly and reversibly modify water permeability. The abundance of AQPs is regulated by its synthesis, redistribution and degradation. However, the molecular mechanism of proteasomal degradation of AQPs remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that a novel E3 ligase, OsRINGzf1, mediated the degradation of AQPs in rice. OsRINGzf1 is the candidate gene from a drought‐related quantitative trait locus (QTL) on the long arm of chromosome 4 in rice (Oryza sativa) and encodes a Really Interesting New Gene (RING) zinc finger protein 1. OsRINGzf1 possesses the E3 ligase activity, ubiquitinates and mediates OsPIP2;1 degradation, thus reducing its protein abundance. The content of OsPIP2;1 protein was decreased in OsRINGzf1 overexpression (OE) plants. The degradation of OsPIP2;1 was inhibited by MG132. The OsRINGzf1 OE plants, with higher leaf‐related water content (LRWC) and lower leaf water loss rate (LWLR), exhibited enhanced drought resistance, whereas the RNAi and knockout plants of OsRINGzf1 were more sensitive to drought. Together, our data demonstrate that OsRINGzf1 positively regulates drought resistance through promoting the degradation of OsPIP2;1 to enhance water retention capacity in rice.
Citrus black spot intensity and yield losses on sweet orange are affected by Phyllosticta citricarpa inoculum concentration and fruit developmental stage
Authors: Fialho Régis Oliveira , Moyo Providence , Fourie Paul Hendrik , Lanza Fabrício Eustáquio , Machado Franklin Jackson , Amorim Lilian , Silva‐Junior Geraldo José
Published: May 2022

Citrus black spot (CBS) symptom expression on sweet oranges has been reported to be affected by the fruit developmental stage and inoculum concentration in greenhouse conditions. However, there is little information concerning the period in which the fruit is susceptible in commercial orchards. This study assessed the influence of fruit age and inoculum concentration of Phyllosticta citricarpa on CBS intensity and fruit drop in the field. Two field trials were conducted in commercial ‘Valencia’ orchards in São Paulo state, Brazil. Fruit were inoculated from October (petal fall stage) to July (c.6.5 cm diameter), with 101, 103 and 105 pycnidiospores/ml. CBS symptoms and fruit drop were observed in higher levels for fruit inoculated from October to February than from March to July. In both trials, when fruit were inoculated 10 times from October to July or single‐inoculated in November or December, high CBS severities of 11%–22% were observed and the proportion of fruit remaining on the tree was 48%–77%; in contrast, noninoculated fruit had severity below 1.1% and 90% remained on the tree. Inoculations in November or December of green fruit with 1.5–3.0 cm diameter using 105 pycnidiospores/ml were associated with higher CBS intensity and fruit drop and shorter incubation period than inoculations with lower concentrations. This work provides a better understanding of fruit stages and P. citricarpa inoculum concentrations most related to symptom expression and losses under natural conditions and may be helpful for improvement of CBS management in the São Paulo citrus belt.
Convalescent plasma donors show enhanced cross‐reactive neutralizing antibody response to antigenic variants of SARS‐CoV‐2 following immunization
Authors: Harvala Heli , Nguyen Dung , Simmonds Peter , Lamikanra Abigail A. , Tsang Hoi Pat , Otter Ashley , Maes Piet , Webster Mhairi , Clarkson Adam , Kaloyirou Fotini , Hopkins Valerie , Laidlaw Stephen M. , Carroll Miles , Mora Ana , Griffiths Alexandra , MacLennan Sheila , Estcourt Lise , Roberts David J.
Published: May 2022

Background

The therapeutic benefit of convalescent plasma (CP) therapy to treat COVID‐19 may derive from neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) to SARS‐CoV‐2. To investigate the effects of antigenic variation on neutralization potency of CP, we compared nAb titers against prototype and recently emerging strains of SARS‐CoV‐2, including Delta and Omicron, in CP donors previously infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 before and after immunization.

Methods and Materials

Samples were assayed from previously SARS‐CoV‐2 infected donors before (n = 17) and after one (n = 43) or two (n = 71) doses of Astra‐Zeneca or Pfizer vaccinations. Ab titers against Wuhan/wild type (WT), Alpha, Beta, and Delta SARS‐CoV‐2 strains were determined by live virus microneutralization assay while titers to Omicron used a focus reduction neutralization test. Anti‐spike antibody was assayed by Elecsys anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 quantitative spike assay (Roche).

Results

Unvaccinated donors showed a geometric mean titer (GMT) of 148 against WT, 80 against Alpha but mostly failed to neutralize Beta, Delta, and Omicron strains. Contrastingly, high GMTs were observed in vaccinated donors against all SARS‐CoV‐2 strains after one vaccine dose (WT:703; Alpha:692; Beta:187; Delta:215; Omicron:434). By ROC analysis, reactivity in the Roche quantitative Elecsys spike assay of 20,000 U/mL was highly predictive of donations with nAb titers of ≥1:640 against Delta (90% sensitivity; 97% specificity) and ≥1:320 against Omicron (89% sensitivity; 81% specificity).

Discussion

Vaccination of previously infected CP donors induced high levels of broadly neutralizing antibodies against circulating antigenic variants of SARS‐CoV‐2. High titer donations could be reliably identified by automated quantitative anti‐spike antibody assay, enabling large‐scale preselection of high‐titer convalescent plasma.
Análise transversal da coinfecção tuberculose-HIV em municípios brasileiros
Authors: Araújo Aguinaldo José de , Silva Rosiane Davina da , Borralho Livia Menezes , Figueiredo Tania Maria Ribeiro Monteiro de
Published: May 2022

A coinfecção tuberculose-HIV configura-se como um desafio para a saúde pública, principalmente nas regiões em desenvolvimento socioeconômico. O objetivo deste estudo é identificar aspectos sociais, de saúde-doença e de cuidado em saúde de pessoas acometidas com a coinfecção tuberculose-HIV que realizaram o tratamento da tuberculose. É um estudo transversal, realizado em dois municípios brasileiros de grande porte, localizados no estado da Paraíba. Teve como população todos os doentes coinfectados com tuberculose-HIV com diagnóstico e tratamento da tuberculose em 2016. Com amostra censitária, participaram 35 pessoas. Os dados foram de julho a outubro de 2017, a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas, com questionário que contemplou variáveis sociais, de saúde-doença e de cuidado em saúde. A análise bivariada foi realizada através do SPSS v.13.0. Houve predominância do sexo masculino, da fase adulto-jovem, baixa escolaridade, com exposição à violência, do impedimento de realizar atividades ocupacionais após o adoecimento, diagnósticos tardios da tuberculose e realizados em hospitais públicos. Os casos novos, a forma pulmonar, cura da tuberculose e a falta de antituberculostáticos e antirretrovirais também foram evidenciados. A exposição à violência, o afastamento de atividades ocupacionais e a falta de medicamentos durante o tratamento foram achados inéditos e configuram-se como desafios que provavelmente desfavorecem a adesão terapêutica e dificultam o controle de ambos os agravos. Esses resultados revelam a necessidade de ações intersetoriais, com o objetivo de desenvolver ações estratégicas que contribuam para a redução das desigualdades sociais e, consequentemente, para o controle dos agravos.
Radon and Exhalation Rate Measurement of Soil Samples in Al-Amiriya Area in Baghdad Governorate Using a Nuclear Track Detector
Authors: Rejah Basim Khalaf
Published: May 2022

Radon is the most dangerous natural radioactive component affecting the human population, since it is a radioactive gas that results from the decomposition process of uranium deposits in soil, rocks, and water, and it is damaging both humans and the ecosystem. The radon concentrations and exhalation rate in soil samples from various locations were determined using a passive approach with a CR-39 (CR-39 is Columbia Resin #39; it is allyl diglycol carbonate C12H18O7) detector in Amiriya region in Baghdad Governorate. The average values of radon concentrations are ranged from 47.3 to 54.2 Bq·m−3. From the obtained results, we can conclude that the values of all studied locations are within the allowed levels. This research can be utilized to examine any variations in the radioactive baseline level in our homes and regions as well as to identify any hazardous radiation that could harm humans.
Comparing methodologies for classification of zebra finch distance calls
Authors: Sahu Prateek K. , Campbell Kimberley A. , Oprea Alexandra , Phillmore Leslie S. , Sturdy Christopher B.
Published: May 2022

Bioacoustic analysis has been used for a variety of purposes including classifying vocalizations for biodiversity monitoring and understanding mechanisms of cognitive processes. A wide range of statistical methods, including various automated methods, have been used to successfully classify vocalizations based on species, sex, geography, and individual. A comprehensive approach focusing on identifying acoustic features putatively involved in classification is required for the prediction of features necessary for discrimination in the real world. Here, we used several classification techniques, namely discriminant function analyses (DFAs), support vector machines (SVMs), and artificial neural networks (ANNs), for sex-based classification of zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) distance calls using acoustic features measured from spectrograms. We found that all three methods (DFAs, SVMs, and ANNs) correctly classified the calls to respective sex-based categories with high accuracy between 92 and 96%. Frequency modulation of ascending frequency, total duration, and end frequency of the distance call were the most predictive features underlying this classification in all of our models. Our results corroborate evidence of the importance of total call duration and frequency modulation in the classification of male and female distance calls. Moreover, we provide a methodological approach for bioacoustic classification problems using multiple statistical analyses.
All topological bands of all nonmagnetic stoichiometric materials
Authors: Vergniory Maia G. , Wieder Benjamin J. , Elcoro Luis , Parkin Stuart S. P. , Felser Claudia , Bernevig B. Andrei , Regnault Nicolas
Published: May 2022

Topological quantum chemistry and symmetry-based indicators have facilitated large-scale searches for materials with topological properties at the Fermi energy (
E
F
). We report the implementation of a publicly accessible catalog of stable and fragile topology in all of the bands both at and away from
E
F
in the 96,196 processable entries in the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database. Our calculations, which represent the completion of the symmetry-indicated band topology of known nonmagnetic materials, have enabled the discovery of repeat-topological and supertopological materials, including rhombohedral bismuth and Bi
2
Mg
3
. We find that 52.65% of all materials are topological at
E
F
, roughly two-thirds of bands across all materials exhibit symmetry-indicated stable topology, and 87.99% of all materials contain at least one stable or fragile topological band.
Directed evolution of nonheme iron enzymes to access abiological radical-relay C(sp
3
)−H azidation
Authors: Rui Jinyan , Zhao Qun , Huls Anthony J. , Soler Jordi , Paris Jared C. , Chen Zhenhong , Reshetnikov Viktor , Yang Yunfang , Guo Yisong , Garcia-Borràs Marc , Huang Xiongyi
Published: May 2022

We report the reprogramming of nonheme iron enzymes to catalyze an abiological C(sp
3
)‒H azidation reaction through iron-catalyzed radical relay. This biocatalytic transformation uses amidyl radicals as hydrogen atom abstractors and Fe(III)‒N
3
intermediates as radical trapping agents. We established a high-throughput screening platform based on click chemistry for rapid evolution of the catalytic performance of identified enzymes. The final optimized variants deliver a range of azidation products with up to 10,600 total turnovers and 93% enantiomeric excess. Given the prevalence of radical relay reactions in organic synthesis and the diversity of nonheme iron enzymes, we envision that this discovery will stimulate future development of metalloenzyme catalysts for synthetically useful transformations unexplored by natural evolution.
Universal antigen encoding of T cell activation from high-dimensional cytokine dynamics
Authors: Achar Sooraj R. , Bourassa François X. P. , Rademaker Thomas J. , Lee Angela , Kondo Taisuke , Salazar-Cavazos Emanuel , Davies John S. , Taylor Naomi , François Paul , Altan-Bonnet Grégoire
Published: May 2022

Systems immunology lacks a framework with which to derive theoretical understanding from high-dimensional datasets. We combined a robotic platform with machine learning to experimentally measure and theoretically model CD8
+
T cell activation. High-dimensional cytokine dynamics could be compressed onto a low-dimensional latent space in an antigen-specific manner (so-called “antigen encoding”). We used antigen encoding to model and reconstruct patterns of T cell immune activation. The model delineated six classes of antigens eliciting distinct T cell responses. We generalized antigen encoding to multiple immune settings, including drug perturbations and activation of chimeric antigen receptor T cells. Such universal antigen encoding for T cell activation may enable further modeling of immune responses and their rational manipulation to optimize immunotherapies.
Optical interferometry–based array of seafloor environmental sensors using a transoceanic submarine cable
Authors: Marra G. , Fairweather D. M. , Kamalov V. , Gaynor P. , Cantono M. , Mulholland S. , Baptie B. , Castellanos J. C. , Vagenas G. , Gaudron J.-O. , Kronjäger J. , Hill I. R. , Schioppo M. , Barbeito Edreira I. , Burrows K. A. , Clivati C. , Calonico D. , Curtis A.
Published: May 2022

Optical fiber–based sensing technology can drastically improve Earth observations by enabling the use of existing submarine communication cables as seafloor sensors. Previous interferometric and polarization-based techniques demonstrated environmental sensing over cable lengths up to 10,500 kilometers. However, measurements were limited to the integrated changes over the entire length of the cable. We demonstrate the detection of earthquakes and ocean signals on individual spans between repeaters of a 5860-kilometer-long transatlantic cable rather than the whole cable. By applying this technique to the existing undersea communication cables, which have a repeater-to-repeater span length of 45 to 90 kilometers, the largely unmonitored ocean floor could be instrumented with thousands of permanent real-time environmental sensors without changes to the underwater infrastructure.
Managing forests for competing goals
Authors: Gurevitch Jessica
Published: May 2022

Tree plantations face difficult trade-offs between production and ecological goals
Shaping Earth in our image
Altered Earth: Getting the Anthropocene Right
Julia Adeney Thomas, Ed.
Cambridge University Press, 2022. 300 pp.
Authors: Ellis Erle C. , Maslin Mark
Published: May 2022

An interdisciplinary interrogation of the Anthropocene misses the chance to probe broader and deeper
Shadow of Milky Way’s giant black hole revealed
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: May 2022

Scene resembles earlier image from a distant galaxy, as Einstein’s theory predicts
Circulatory Exosomes from COVID-19 Patients Trigger NLRP3 Inflammasome in Endothelial Cells
Authors: Sur Subhayan , Steele Robert , Isbell T. Scott , Ray Ranjit , Ray Ratna B.
Published: May 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a global health problem. Although the vaccine controls infection, understanding the molecular mechanism of pathogenesis will help in developing future therapies.
Draft Genome Sequence of Geobacillus stearothermophilus Strain K4E3_SPR_NPP, Isolated from Kasol Hot Spring, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Rodge Seema , Patil Niranjan
Published: May 2022

Geobacillus stearothermophilus
strain K4E3_SPR_NPP is a thermophilic bacterium growing optimally at 70°C. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Geobacillus stearothermophilus
strain K4E3_SPR_NPP, which was isolated from Kasol Hot Spring (72.3°C), Himachal Pradesh, India (32°0′46.35″N, 77°19′0.4908″E).
Zinner syndrome: a rare diagnosis in infancy
Authors: Rose Joanne Michelle Oida , Banthia Ravi , Tamboli Zain , Lal Hira
Published: May 2022

We present a case of Zinner syndrome (ZS), where we were fortunate to diagnose a child with this rare syndrome immediately after birth. Gross hydronephrosis was observed during the prenatal period on ultrasound, and further imaging after birth confirmed the presence of a multicystic dysplastic kidney and seminal vesicle cyst. The majority of cases of ZS is asymptomatic; however, symptoms relating to urination, ejaculation or infertility may present later on in life and so regular follow-up is required to ensure interventions can be carried out if such symptoms do occur.
Purpura fulminans due toStreptococcus pneumoniaebacteraemia in an unsplectomised immunocompetent adult without primary hypocomplementaemia
Authors: Perinkulam Sathyanarayanan Swaminathan , Ahmed Mohammad , Hericks Anthony
Published: May 2022

Invasive pneumococcal disease occurs in high-risk patient population which includes patients with asplenia and primary hypocomplementaemia. Pneumococcal sepsis can rarely cause disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and intravascular thrombosis of small and medium sized vessels called purpura fulminans which is associated with a high mortality rate. We present the case of an immunocompetent woman in her 50s with an intact spleen who presented with septic shock fromStreptococcus pneumoniaebacteraemia. Her hospital course rapidly progressed to multiorgan dysfunction, DIC and purpura fulminans. She was treated aggressively with broad spectrum antibiotics, coagulation factor replacement, multiple vasopressor support, renal replacement therapy and mechanical ventilator support. Despite aggressive measures, she succumbed to the multiorgan failure.
Clinical effectiveness of one ultrasound guided intra-articular corticosteroid and local anaesthetic injection in addition to advice and education for hip osteoarthritis (HIT trial): single blind, parallel group, three arm, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Paskins Zoe , Bromley Kieran , Lewis Martyn , Hughes Gemma , Hughes Emily , Hennings Susie , Cherrington Andrea , Hall Alison , Holden Melanie A , Stevenson Kay , Menon Ajit , Roberts Philip , Peat George , Jinks Clare , Kigozi Jesse , Oppong Raymond , Foster Nadine E , Mallen Christian D , Roddy Edward
Published: May 2022

Objective

To compare the clinical effectiveness of adding a single ultrasound guided intra-articular hip injection of corticosteroid and local anaesthetic to advice and education in adults with hip osteoarthritis.

Design

Pragmatic, three arm, parallel group, single blind, randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Two community musculoskeletal services in England.

Participants

199 adults aged ≥40 years with hip osteoarthritis and at least moderate pain: 67 were randomly assigned to receive advice and education (best current treatment (BCT)), 66 to BCT plus ultrasound guided injection of triamcinolone and lidocaine, and 66 to BCT plus ultrasound guided injection of lidocaine.

Interventions

BCT alone, BCT plus ultrasound guided intra-articular hip injection of 40 mg triamcinolone acetonide and 4 mL 1% lidocaine hydrochloride, or BCT plus ultrasound guided intra-articular hip injection of 5 mL 1% lidocaine. Participants in the ultrasound guided arms were masked to the injection they received.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was self-reported current intensity of hip pain (0-10 Numerical Rating Scale) over six months. Outcomes were self-reported at two weeks and at two, four, and six months.

Results

Mean age of the study sample was 62.8 years (standard deviation 10.0) and 113 (57%) were women. Average weighted follow-up rate across time points was 93%. Greater mean improvement in hip pain intensity over six months was reported with BCT plus ultrasound-triamcinolone-lidocaine compared with BCT: mean difference −1.43 (95% confidence interval −2.15 to −0.72), P<0.001; standardised mean difference −0.55 (−0.82 to −0.27). No difference in hip pain intensity over six months was reported between BCT plus ultrasound-triamcinolone-lidocaine compared with BCT plus ultrasound-lidocaine (−0.52 (−1.21 to 0.18)). The presence of ultrasound confirmed synovitis or effusion was associated with a significant interaction effect favouring BCT plus ultrasound-triamcinolone-lidocaine (−1.70 (−3.10 to −0.30)). One participant in the BCT plus ultrasound-triamcinolone-lidocaine group with a bioprosthetic aortic valve died from subacute bacterial endocarditis four months after the intervention, deemed possibly related to the trial treatment.

Conclusions

Ultrasound guided intra-articular hip injection of triamcinolone is a treatment option to add to BCT for people with hip osteoarthritis.

Trial registration

EudraCT 2014-003412-37; ISRCTN50550256.
Trajectory of long covid symptoms after covid-19 vaccination: community based cohort study
Authors: Ayoubkhani Daniel , Bermingham Charlotte , Pouwels Koen B , Glickman Myer , Nafilyan Vahé , Zaccardi Francesco , Khunti Kamlesh , Alwan Nisreen A , Walker A Sarah
Published: May 2022

Objective

To estimate associations between covid-19 vaccination and long covid symptoms in adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection before vaccination.

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

Community dwelling population, UK.

Participants

28 356 participants in the Office for National Statistics COVID-19 Infection Survey aged 18-69 years who received at least one dose of an adenovirus vector or mRNA covid-19 vaccine after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Main outcome measure

Presence of long covid symptoms at least 12 weeks after infection over the follow-up period 3 February to 5 September 2021.

Results

Mean age of participants was 46 years, 55.6% (n=15 760) were women, and 88.7% (n=25 141) were of white ethnicity. Median follow-up was 141 days from first vaccination (among all participants) and 67 days from second vaccination (83.8% of participants). 6729 participants (23.7%) reported long covid symptoms of any severity at least once during follow-up. A first vaccine dose was associated with an initial 12.8% decrease (95% confidence interval −18.6% to −6.6%, P<0.001) in the odds of long covid, with subsequent data compatible with both increases and decreases in the trajectory (0.3% per week, 95% confidence interval −0.6% to 1.2% per week, P=0.51). A second dose was associated with an initial 8.8% decrease (95% confidence interval −14.1% to −3.1%, P=0.003) in the odds of long covid, with a subsequent decrease by 0.8% per week (−1.2% to −0.4% per week, P<0.001). Heterogeneity was not found in associations between vaccination and long covid by sociodemographic characteristics, health status, hospital admission with acute covid-19, vaccine type (adenovirus vector or mRNA), or duration from SARS-CoV-2 infection to vaccination.

Conclusions

The likelihood of long covid symptoms was observed to decrease after covid-19 vaccination and evidence suggested sustained improvement after a second dose, at least over the median follow-up of 67 days. Vaccination may contribute to a reduction in the population health burden of long covid, although longer follow-up is needed.
Association between intimate partner violence and prenatal anxiety and depression in pregnant women: a cross-sectional survey during the COVID-19 epidemic in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Wu Fei , Zhou Lin , Chen Caiyun , Lin Wei , Liu Peiyi , Huang Weikang , Zhong Chuyan , Zhang Minyi , Li Qiushuang , Chen Qing , Wang Yue-Yun
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women remains a major global public health problem with harmful consequences for individuals and society. People’s lifestyles have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study investigated the prevalence of and relationship between IPV and anxiety and depression in pregnant Chinese women during the pandemic.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

This investigation was conducted in Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China from 15 September to 15 December 2020.

Participants

A total of 3434 pregnant women were screened with the Abuse Assessment Screen Questionnaire to evaluate IPV and General Anxiety Disorder and Patient Health Questionnaire to evaluate symptoms of anxiety and depression, respectively. Pregnant women with perinatal health records at Shenzhen District Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospitals who consented to participate were enrolled. Women with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, mania or substance dependence and pregnant women who refused to participate were excluded. Data were analysed with the χ2 test and by logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of IPV among pregnant women was 2.2%. Mental violence was the most common type of violence (2.2%), followed by physical (0.6%) and sexual (0.7%) violence. The prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms was 9.8% and 6.9%, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, there was a statistically significant association between IPV and prenatal anxiety (OR=4.207, 95% CI: 2.469 to 7.166) and depression (OR=3.864, 95% CI: 2.095 to 7.125).

Conclusions

IPV increased the risk of prenatal anxiety and depression in pregnant women in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts should be made by the government and civil society to promote long-lasting antenatal interventions to ensure the safety and protect the mental health of pregnant women.
Implementation of a peer support intervention to promote the detection, reporting and management of adverse drug reactions in people living with HIV in Uganda: a protocol for a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Kiguba Ronald , Ndagije Helen Byomire , Nambasa Victoria , Katureebe Cordelia , Zakumumpa Henry , Nanyonga Stella Maris , Ssanyu Jacquellyn Nambi , Tregunno Phil , Harrison Kendal , Merle Corinne S , Raguenaud Marie-Eve , Kitutu Freddy Eric
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Patients have contributed <1% of spontaneous adverse drug reaction (ADR) reports in Uganda’s pharmacovigilance database. Peer support combined with mobile technologies could empower people living with HIV (PLHIV) to report ADRs and improve ADR management through linkage to care. We seek to test the feasibility and effect of a peer support intervention on ADR reporting by PLHIV receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in Uganda; identify barriers and facilitators to the intervention; and characterise ADR reporting and management.

Methods and analysis

This is a quasi-experimental study to be implemented over 4 months at 12 intervention and 12 comparison cART sites from four geographical regions of Uganda. Per region, two blocks each with a tertiary, secondary and primary care cART site will be selected by simple random sampling. Blocks per region will be randomly assigned to intervention and comparison arms.

Study units will include cART sites and PLHIV receiving cART. PLHIV at intervention sites will be assigned to peer supporters to empower them to report ADRs directly to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPC). Peer supporters will be expert clients from among PLHIV and/or recognised community health workers.

Direct patient reporting of ADRs to NPC will leverage the Med Safety App and toll-free unstructured supplementary service data interface to augment traditional pharmacovigilance methods.

The primary outcomes are attrition rate measured by number of study participants who remain in the study until the end of follow-up at 4 months; and number of ADR reports submitted to NPC by PLHIV as measured by questionnaire and data abstraction from the national pharmacovigilance database at baseline and 4 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval from: School of Health Sciences Research and Ethics Committee at Makerere University (MAKSHSREC-2020-64) and Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (HS1206ES). Results will be shared with PLHIV, policy-makers, the public and academia.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN75989485.
Randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy versus mindfulness for people with rheumatoid arthritis with and without a history of recurrent depression: study protocol and design
Authors: Menzies Rachel E , Sharpe Louise , Richmond Bethany , Dudeney Joanne , Todd Jemma , Szabo Marianna , Sesel Amy-Lee , Dear Blake
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Psychosocial treatments have been shown to benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on various outcomes. Two evidence-based interventions are cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). However, these interventions have been compared only once. Results showed that CBT outperformed MBSR on some outcomes, but MBSR was more effective for people with RA with a history of recurrent depression, with efficacy being moderated by history of depressive episodes. However, this was a post-hoc finding based on a small subsample. We aim to examine whether a history of recurrent depression will moderate the relative efficacy of these treatments when delivered online.

Methods and analysis

This study is a randomised controlled trial comparing CBT and MBSR delivered online with a waitlist control condition. History of recurrent depressive episodes will be assessed at baseline. The primary outcome will be pain interference. Secondary outcomes will include pain intensity, RA symptoms, depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms. Outcome measures will be administered at baseline, post-treatment and at 6 months follow-up. We aim to recruit 300 participants, and an intention-to-treat analysis will be used. Linear mixed models will be used, with baseline levels of treatment outcomes as the covariate, and group and depressive status as fixed factors. The results will demonstrate whether online CBT and MBSR effectively improve outcomes among people with RA. Importantly, this trial will determine whether one intervention is more efficacious, and whether prior history of depression moderates this effect.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Sydney (2021/516). The findings will be subject to publication irrespective of the final results of the study, and based on the outcomes presented in this protocol.

Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621000997853p).
Examining the psychological and financial impact of travel restrictions on citizens and permanent residents stranded abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic: international cross-sectional study
Authors: McDermid Pippa , Craig Adam , Sheel Meru , Blazek Katrina , Talty Siobhan , Seale Holly
Published: May 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the psychological and financial distress reported by citizens and permanent residents stranded abroad due to international travel restrictions introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

An international cross-sectional study.

Setting

A primary analysis of data collected between July and September 2021 through an online survey targeting individuals stranded abroad and unable to return to their country of residence due to international travel restrictions.

Respondents

A total of 1054 individuals aged 18–84 years.

Data analysis

Multivariable logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress and participant variables.

Outcome measures

The survey answered questions regarding COVID-19 travel restriction-related impacts: personal stress, anxiety and depression (using the validated 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) tool), as well as impacts on housing and financial security and demographic data.

Results

A total of 75.4% of respondents reported wanting to return to the Oceania region (75.4%), with 45% stranded in Europe. 64.2% reported financial distress while stranded abroad. 64.4% (x̄=9.43, SD=5.81) reported moderate-to-extremely severe (based on the DASS-21 classification) levels of depression, 41.7% for anxiety (x̄=5.46, SD=4.74), and 58.1% for stress (x̄=10.64, SD=5.26). Multivariable analysis indicated that financial stress, an employment change, being <30 years, having a high perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 abroad and being stranded for >2 months were significantly related to scores of moderate-to-extremely severe depression, anxiety and stress.

Conclusion

The study is among the first to explore the psychological and financial distress-related impacts associated with being stranded abroad due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. It highlights a range of unintended consequences that arise from pandemic-related travel restrictions, identifies the health and social needs of a particularly vulnerable population, and provides clues as to the types of support that may be adopted to best support them.
SARS-CoV-2 humoral immune response in patients with cardiovascular risk factors: the COmmunity Cohort Study protocol
Authors: Bachelet Vivienne C , Silva-Ayarza Ignacio , Lizana Francisca J , Gomolán Patricio , Silva-Villalobos Diego , Navarrete María S
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The COmmunity Cohort Study aims to determine, after natural exposure to SARS-CoV-2 or anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccines deployed in Chile to prevent COVID-19 in the context of the current pandemic, the strength and duration of detectable neutralising antibodies in adult ambulatory primary care patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods and analysis

We will set up a community-based longitudinal, prospective cohort study. The study will be conducted in two public outpatient clinics located in the southern district of Santiago, Chile. We expect to begin recruitment in the second quarter of 2022. Each patient will be followed up for at least 1 year after inclusion in the cohort. The eligible population will be adult patients registered in the Cardiovascular Health Programme. Exposure in this study is defined as any event where participants have contact with SARS-CoV-2 antigens from natural exposure or vaccination. The primary outcomes are seroconversion and strength and duration of the neutralising IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Secondary outcomes are any COVID-19-related event or intercurrent morbidities or death. Data will be collected by extracting serial blood samples and administering a questionnaire at the first face-to-face contact and monthly follow-up time points. The sample size estimated for this study is 1060. We will characterise the cohort, determine the seroprevalence rate of neutralising antibodies at baseline and determine the rates of antibody decline using a longitudinal mixed-effects model.

Ethics and dissemination

The Scientific Ethics Committee of the South Metropolitan Health Care Service approved the study protocol (Memorandum No 191/2021). We will present the results in two peer-reviewed publications and national and international professional and academic meetings. We will organise seminars with relevant stakeholders and hold town hall meetings with the local community. We will set up a COmmunity Cohort Study website at www.communitystudy.cl to disseminate the study purpose, research team and milestones.
Quality aspects of hospital-based physiotherapy from the perspective of key stakeholders: a qualitative study
Authors: Steenbruggen Rudi A , Dolleman Guido , van Heusden-Scholtalbers Linda AG , Maas Marjo , Hoogeboom Thomas J , Brand Paul , Wees Philip van der
Published: May 2022

Background

For the design of a robust quality system for hospital-based physiotherapy, it is important to know what key stakeholders consider quality to be.

Objective

To explore key stakeholders’ views on quality of hospital-based physiotherapy.

Methods

We conducted 53 semi-structured interviews with 62 representatives of five key stakeholder groups of hospital-based physiotherapy: medical specialists, hospital managers, boards of directors, multidisciplinary colleagues and patients. Audio recordings of these interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed with thematic analysis.

Results

According to the interviewees, quality of hospital-based physiotherapy is characterised by: (1) a human approach, (2) context-specific and up-to-date applicable knowledge and expertise, (3) providing the right care in the right place at the right time, (4) a proactive departmental policy in which added value for the hospital is transparent, (5) professional development and innovation based on a vision on science and developments in healthcare, (6) easy access and awareness of one’s own and others’ position within the interdisciplinary cooperation and (7) ensuring a continuum of care with the inclusion of preclinical and postclinical care of patients.

Conclusions

Important quality aspects in the perspective of all stakeholders were an expertise that matches the specific pathology of the patient, the hospital-based physiotherapist being a part of the care team, and the support and supervision of all patients concerning physical functioning during the hospitalisation period. Whereas patients mainly mentioned the personal qualities of the physiotherapist, the other stakeholders mainly focused on professional and organisational factors. The results of this study offer opportunities for hospital-based physiotherapy to improve the quality of provided care seen from the perspective of key stakeholders.
Anatomical study of the medial branches of the lumbar dorsal rami: implications for image-guided intervention
Authors: Tran John , Peng Philip , Loh Eldon
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Fluoroscopic-guided radiofrequency ablation of the lumbar medial branches is commonly performed to manage chronic low back pain originating from the facet joints. A detailed understanding of the course of medial branches in relation to bony and soft tissue landmarks is paramount to optimizing lumbar denervation procedures, particularly parallel placement of the radiofrequency electrode. The objectives of this study were to investigate the relationship of medial branches to anatomical landmarks and discuss the implications for lumbar denervation.

Methods

Ten cadaveric specimens were meticulously dissected. The origin, course, and relationship of lumbar medial branches to bony and soft tissue landmarks were documented.

Results

The medial branches followed the lateral neck of superior articular process deep to the intertransversarii mediales muscle at each lumbar vertebral level. In all specimens, the medial branches coursed laterally on the anterior half of the neck and transitioned from parasagittal-to-medial on the posterior half to reach the mamillo-accessory notch. The mamillo-accessory ligament was found to not occlude the nerve on the posterior quarter of the lateral neck but rather at the mamillo-accessory notch located at the posterior margin of the superior articular process.

Discussion

A detailed understanding of the relationship of medial branches to anatomical landmarks is essential to optimizing needle placement for lumbar denervation procedures. The current study suggests that a parasagittal placement, with increased cranial-to-caudal angulation of the electrode, may improve parallel tip alignment with the targeted medial branch and represent a potential alternative to the traditional technique.
Grading scale based on arcuate fasciculus segmentation to predict postoperative language outcomes of brain arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Jiao Yuming , Zhao Shaozhi , Li Hao , Wu Jun , Weng Jiancong , Huo Ran , Wang Jie , Wang Shuo , Cao Yong , Zhao Ji Zong
Published: May 2022

Objective

The long-term postoperative language outcomes for brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) have not been well characterised. With fibres scattered in the Broca’s, Wernicke’s and Geschwind’s area, the arcuate fasciculus (AF) is considered as a crucial structure of language function. This study aimed to observe the language outcomes, determine the risk factors and construct a grading system for long-term postoperative language deficits (LDs) in patients with bAVMs involving the AF (AF-bAVMs).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 135 patients with AF-bAVMs. Based on the course of the AF and our clinical experience, three boundary lines were drawn to divide the AF into segments I, II, III and IV in spatial order from the frontal lobe to the temporal lobe. Surgery-related LD evaluations were performed 1 week (short term) and at the last follow-up (long term) after surgery. Finally, based on multivariable logistic regression analysis, a grading system was constructed to predict long-term postoperative LD. The predictive accuracy was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

Sixty-two (45.9%) patients experienced short-term postoperative LD. After a mean follow-up of 50.2±24.9 months, long-term LD was found in 14 (10.4%) patients. Nidus size (p=0.007), LD history (p=0.009) and segment II involvement (p=0.030) were independent risk factors for short-term LD. Furthermore, segment II involvement (p=0.002), anterior choroidal artery (AChA) feeding (p=0.001), patient age (p=0.023) and LD history (p=0.001) were independent risk factors for long-term LD. A grading system was developed by combining the risk factors for long-term LD; its predictive accuracy was 0.921.

Conclusions

The involvement of the trunk of the AF between Broca’s area and the inferior parietal lobule, a nidus supplied by the AChA, older patient age and history of LD were associated with long-term postoperative LD. The grading system combining these factors demonstrated favourable predictive accuracy for long-term language outcomes.