bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pearson Autocovariance Distinct Patterns and Attention-Based Deep Learning for Wind Power Prediction
Authors: Jency W. G. , Judith J. E.
Published: April 2022

Swift development in wind power and extension of wind generation necessitates significant research in numerous fields. Due to this, wind power is weather dependent; it is fluctuating and is sporadic over numerous time periods. Hence, timely wind power prediction is perceived as an extensive contribution to well-grounded wind power prediction with complex patterns. In addition, a number of wind power prediction methods have been developed. For proper planning and operation of power systems with complicated patterns, wind power prediction in an accurate and timely manner is essential. This paper presents a wind power prediction method with feature selection and prediction called, Pearson Autocovariance Distinct Patterns and Attention-based Deep Learning (PACDP-ADL). In the deep learning environment, feature selection plays a crucial aspect and a prediction task. A Pearson Autocovariance Feature Selection model is used for identifying necessary features for wind power prediction and reduces the complexity of the model. Next, an Attention-based Long Short-Term Memory Wind Prediction algorithm is employed to retain required patterns and forget irrelevant patterns to acquire more satisfactory prediction precision. The proposed PACDP-ADL method is validated by utilizing the wind power data with various performance metrics such as wind power accuracy, wind power time, and true positive rate compared with the state-of-the-art method.
Investigating the Effects of Nonsolvent Additive and Spinning Conditions on Morphology and Permeation of PAN Hollow Fiber Membranes
Authors: Ghadiri Mohammad Ali , Beyranvand Ahmad , Morsali Sheida
Published: April 2022

In this study, polyacrylonitrile hollow fiber (PAN HF) membranes were designed and fabricated with desired morphology and permeability for low pressure-driven applications via the dry-wet phase-inversion spinning process. The effects of multiple design and fabrication parameters on permeation, morphology, thickness, and pore size of membranes were investigated using various techniques. Moreover, the effects of water as the nonsolvent additive, chemical composition of the bore solution, dope solution flow rate, air gap, coagulation bath temperature, and tensile ratio (take-up speed) were investigated. The addition of 3% wt. water as the nonsolvent additive into the dope solution resulted in a seventeen-times increment in the water flux up to 495 L m-2 h-1 bar-1. It showed a significant improvement in membrane porosity compared with those prepared without water nonsolvent additive. Utilization of 90% wt. of the solvent in water solution as the bore solution instead of pure water showed the most significant effect on the water flux and membrane structure among the fabrication parameters. It resulted in a reduction in threshold permeation pressure by more than ten times. The results revealed that whichever variation, including increased dope solution flow rate or coagulation bath temperature, or reduced air gap or traction, leads to promotion of membrane water flux. Still, different effects on the structure and morphology of the membranes were observed. Based on the outcomes of this study and according to the SEM images, one can conclude that outer surface pore size reduction from about 300 nm resulted in decreased water flux from 448 to 226 L m-2 h-1 bar-1, so that no pores were observed in the outer surface until 50 K magnification of the SEM image. The findings in this study provide instructive guidelines for the design and fabrication of high-performance hydrophilic PAN-based hollow fiber membranes with the desired morphology and water flux. Best ranges of investigated parameters for relatively high permeate water flux and desired membrane morphology were reported.
Nail Changes in People Living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Observational and Cross-Sectional Study in a Third-Level Hospital
Authors: Flores-Bozo Luis R. , Méndez-Flores Silvia , Olvera-Rodríguez Valeria , Echevarría-Keel Josune , Esquivel-Pedraza Lilly , Rangel-Cordero Andrea , Belaunzarán-Zamudio Pablo F. , Domínguez-Cherit Judith G.
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Nail changes in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have been scarcely reported. The aim of this study was to establish the frequency and characteristics of nail alterations observed in adults with HIV infection in a third-level hospital in Mexico. Method: Observational and cross-sectional study carried out in 205 patients receiving care at the HIV/AIDS Clinic of the Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ) in Mexico City. We performed a nail and iconographic assessment of both hands and toenails. We collected information of demographic and clinical variables, as well as drugs use, and antiretroviral treatment used by the participants through a questionnaire and from medical records. We performed direct cytological examinations and nail mycological cultures in participants with symptoms of onychomycosis. Results: The participants were predominantly male patients (91.2%), with a mean age of 41 (range 21–78) years, under antiretroviral therapy (91.2%), with a suppressed viral load (78.5%) and mean CD4+ lymphocyte count of 379.5 (range 20–1,162) cells/μL. Fitzpatrick’s IV phototype was prevailing in the studied population (70%). Nail changes were documented in 72.2% of the patients; being pigmentary changes (37.1%) and trauma (30.7%) the most frequent. Onychomycosis was observed in 26.3%; with total dystrophic onychomycosis as the most frequent clinical variant (68.5%). We obtained fungal isolates in 59.3% of participants and Candida parapsilosis was the most frequent of these (37.5%). Conclusions: We observed a high prevalence of nail changes with very diverse etiology, as well as a variety of nondermatophytic yeasts and molds isolates associated with cases with onychomycosis. These findings reinforce and confirm the need for routine nail examination and stress the importance of medical personnel working with people living with HIV to have broad knowledge of nail pathology.
Willian Luiz da Conceição. Branquitude: dilema racial brasileiro
Authors: Rodrigues Yuri Franklin dos Santos
Published: April 2022

Resenha de Branquitude: dilema racial brasileiro, de William Luiz da Conceição
Taxonomic revision of critical taxa of Elwendia (Umbelliferae-Apioideae) from Tajikistan and neighbouring countries, with descriptions of three new species from the Pamir-Alay and distributional novelties
Authors: KLJUYKOV EUGENE V. , LAZKOV GEORGII A. , DEGTJAREVA GALINA V. , ZAKHAROVA EKATERINA A. , UKRAINSKAJA ULJANA A. , LYSKOV DMITRY F. , SAMIGULLIN TAHIR H.
Published: April 2022

A study based on morphological and molecular (ITS/ETS nrDNA) data presents a taxonomic revision of the genus Elwendia in Tajikistan and neighbouring countries with a special attention to the E. kuhitangi – E. salsa complex. As a result, three new species of Elwendia from Tajikistan are described: E. darwasica, E. schistosa, and E. varsobica. Elwendia varsobica differs from all of these species by broad ovate-lanceolate sheaths of stem leaves and dorsally compressed mericarps. Elwendia darwasica and E. schistosa differ from E. kuhitangi and E. salsa by erect or slightly spreading styles of fruits. Improved morphological descriptions of E. kuhitangi and E. lindbergii as well as a new identification key for all Elwendia species known from Tajikistan and adjacent regions are provided. The distribution of E. lindbergii and E. capusii is expanded: E. lindbergii is reported for the first time from Tajikistan and E. capusii from Afghanistan.
Two new species of Elcaninae (Orthoptera, Elcanidae) recorded from the Early Cretaceous China
Authors: TIAN HE , REN DONG , GU JUN-JIE
Published: April 2022

Two new species attributed to the genus Panorpidium Westwood, 1854 are described from the Lower Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Beipiao county, Liaoning province, China: Panorpidium acusicaudum sp. nov., P. validum sp. nov. The new species differs from all other known Panorpidium species by its combination of wing venation and body characters.
Understanding Controlling Factors of Extratropical Humidity and Clouds with an Idealized General Circulation Model
Authors: Frazer Michelle E. , Ming Yi
Published: April 2022

This paper examines the physical controls of extratropical humidity and clouds by isolating the effects of cloud physics factors in an idealized model. The Held–Suarez dynamical core is used with the addition of passive water vapor and cloud tracers, allowing cloud processes to be explored cleanly. Separate saturation adjustment and full cloud scheme controls are used to consider the strength of advection–condensation theory. Three sets of perturbations to the cloud scheme are designed to test the model’s sensitivity to the physics of condensation, sedimentation, and precipitation formation. The condensation and sedimentation perturbations isolate two key differences between the control cases. First, the sub-grid-scale relative humidity distribution assumed for the cloud macrophysics influences the location and magnitude of the extratropical cloud maxima, which interrupt the isentropic transport of moisture to the polar troposphere. Second, within the model’s explicit treatment of cloud microphysics, re-evaporation of hydrometeors moistens and increases clouds in the lower troposphere. In contrast, microphysical processes of precipitation formation (specifically, the ratio of accretion to autoconversion) have negligible effects on humidity, cloudiness, and precipitation apart from the strength of the large-scale condensation and formation cycle. In addition, counterintuitive relationships—such as cloud condensate and cloud fraction responding in opposing directions—emphasize the need for careful dissection of physical mechanisms. In keeping with advection–condensation theory, circulation sets the patterns of humidity, clouds, and precipitation to first order, with factors explored herein providing secondary controls. The results substantiate the utility of such idealized modeling and highlight key cloud processes to constrain.
Investigating the water structures in reverse micelles by temperature-dependent near infrared spectroscopy combined with independent component analysis
Authors: Wang Mian , Sun Yan , Duan Chaoshu , Cai Wensheng , Shao Xueguang
Published: April 2022

Confined water has an important effect on the structural stability and biological activity of biomolecules. Reverse micelles (RM) are a good system for investigating the structure of water in confined environment. In this work, the structure of water in RMs with different water content ( w0) was studied using near infrared spectra measured at different temperature. Independent component analysis was used to extract the spectral features changing with the w0 and temperature. Three independent components representing the spectral features of trapped water, bound water, and core water were obtained. Furthermore, through the variation of the trapped water and bound water with temperature, an increase of the former and a reduction of the latter were found, revealing that the two water structures play an important role for the mobility of the RM’s shell.
An Exploration of Within-Cultural Differences of a Culture-specific Syndrome: The Case of Brazilian jeitinho
Authors: Pilati Ronaldo , Fischer Ronald
Published: April 2022

To what extent are cultural syndromes invariant within nations or can we identify within-cultural variability in structure and endorsement of cultural syndromes? These questions are central to a) recent discussions around the relevance of nation-states in cultural vs. geographical psychology and b) explorations of how cultural syndromes described in anthropological research are endorsed by individuals within and across regions within the country. We report data on Brazilian jeitinho, an informal problem-solving strategy that is central to Brazilian culture but may show within-cultural variability as suggested in previous anthropological and sociological research. Using a large online sample ( N = 1259) we found evidence of full score equivalence for two multi-dimensional jeitinho measures across the most populous Brazilian regions, suggesting that respondents interpret the instruments similarly. Second, we found no practically meaningful mean differences: jeitinho was endorsed equally across all regions of the country. Finally, we found some small but consistent associations with demographic variables, notably gender, age, and education differences. We need to pay greater attention to behavioral functionality at individual level—the social position of individuals within the system rather than geographical boundaries.
Modeling hourly weather-related road traffic variations for different vehicle types in Germany
Authors: Becker Nico , Rust Henning W. , Ulbrich Uwe
Published: April 2022

Weather has a substantial influence on people’s travel behavior. In this study we analyze if meteorological variables can improve predictions of hourly traffic counts at 1400 stations on federal roads and highways in Germany. Motorbikes, cars, vans and trucks are distinguished. It is evaluated in how far the mean squared error of Poisson regression models for hourly traffic counts is reduced by using precipitation, temperature, cloud cover and wind speed data. It is shown that in particular motorbike counts are strongly weather-dependent. On federal roads the mean squared error is reduced by up to 60% in models with meteorological predictor variables, when compared to models without meteorological variables. A detailed analysis of the models for motorbike counts reveals non-linear relationships between the meteorological variables and motorbike counts. Car counts are shown to be specifically sensitive to weather in touristic regions like seaside resorts and nature parks. The findings allow for several potential applications like improvements of route planning in navigation systems, implementations in traffic management systems, day-ahead planning of visitor numbers in touristic areas or the usage in road crash modelling.
Are we there yet? Benchmarking low-coverage nanopore long-read sequencing for the assembling of mitochondrial genomes using the vulnerable silky shark Carcharhinus falciformis
Authors: Baeza J. Antonio , García-De León F. J.
Published: April 2022

Background

Whole mitochondrial genomes are quickly becoming markers of choice for the exploration of within-species genealogical and among-species phylogenetic relationships. Most often, ‘primer walking’ or ‘long PCR’ strategies plus Sanger sequencing or low-pass whole genome sequencing using Illumina short reads are used for the assembling of mitochondrial chromosomes. In this study, we first confirmed that mitochondrial genomes can be sequenced from long reads using nanopore sequencing data exclusively. Next, we examined the accuracy of the long-reads assembled mitochondrial chromosomes when comparing them to a ‘gold’ standard reference mitochondrial chromosome assembled using Illumina short-reads sequencing.

Results

Using a specialized bioinformatics tool, we first produced a short-reads mitochondrial genome assembly for the silky shark C. falciformis with an average base coverage of 9.8x. The complete mitochondrial genome of C. falciformis was 16,705 bp in length and 934 bp shorter than a previously assembled genome (17,639 bp in length) that used bioinformatics tools not specialized for the assembly of mitochondrial chromosomes. Next, low-pass whole genome sequencing using a MinION ONT pocket-sized platform plus customized de-novo and reference-based workflows assembled and circularized a highly accurate mitochondrial genome in the silky shark Carcharhinus falciformis. Indels at the flanks of homopolymer regions explained most of the dissimilarities observed between the ‘gold’ standard reference mitochondrial genome (assembled using Illumina short reads) and each of the long-reads mitochondrial genome assemblies. Although not completely accurate, mitophylogenomics and barcoding analyses (using entire mitogenomes and the D-Loop/Control Region, respectively) suggest that long-reads assembled mitochondrial genomes are reliable for identifying a sequenced individual, such as C. falciformis, and separating the same individual from others belonging to closely related congeneric species.

Conclusions

This study confirms that mitochondrial genomes can be sequenced from long-reads nanopore sequencing data exclusively. With further development, nanopore technology can be used to quickly test in situ mislabeling in the shark fin fishing industry and thus, improve surveillance protocols, law enforcement, and the regulation of this fishery. This study will also assist with the transferring of high-throughput sequencing technology to middle- and low-income countries so that international scientists can explore population genomics in sharks using inclusive research strategies. Lastly, we recommend assembling mitochondrial genomes using specialized assemblers instead of other assemblers developed for bacterial and/or nuclear genomes.
Whole genome sequencing and the application of a SNP panel reveal primary evolutionary lineages and genomic variation in the lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Bertola L. D. , Vermaat M. , Lesilau F. , Chege M. , Tumenta P. N. , Sogbohossou E. A. , Schaap O. D. , Bauer H. , Patterson B. D. , White P. A. , de Iongh H. H. , Laros J. F. J. , Vrieling K.
Published: April 2022

Background

Previous phylogeographic studies of the lion (Panthera leo) have improved our insight into the distribution of genetic variation, as well as a revised taxonomy which now recognizes a northern (Panthera leo leo) and a southern (Panthera leo melanochaita) subspecies. However, existing whole range phylogeographic studies on lions either consist of very limited numbers of samples, or are focused on mitochondrial DNA and/or a limited set of microsatellites. The geographic extent of genetic lineages and their phylogenetic relationships remain uncertain, clouded by massive sampling gaps, sex-biased dispersal and incomplete lineage sorting.

Results

In this study we present results of low depth whole genome sequencing and subsequent variant calling in ten lions sampled throughout the geographic range, resulting in the discovery of >150,000 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). Phylogenetic analyses revealed the same basal split between northern and southern populations, as well as four population clusters on a more local scale. Further, we designed a SNP panel, including 125 autosomal and 14 mitochondrial SNPs, which was tested on >200 lions from across their range. Results allow us to assign individuals to one of these four major clades (West & Central Africa, India, East Africa, or Southern Africa) and delineate these clades in more detail.

Conclusions

The results presented here, particularly the validated SNP panel, have important applications, not only for studying populations on a local geographic scale, but also for tracing samples of unknown origin for forensic purposes, and for guiding conservation management of ex situ populations. Thus, these genomic resources not only contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary history of the lion, but may also play a crucial role in conservation efforts aimed at protecting the species in its full diversity.
Association of plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and thoracic aorta calcification in maintenance hemodialysis patients with and without diabetes
Authors: Wei Kai , Song Gesheng , Xi Linhe , Chen Juan , Sun Chuancai , Chen Ping , Wei Yong , Wang Li , Kong Xianglei , Li Yang , Xu Dongmei , Jia Xiaoyan
Published: April 2022

Background

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is not only a bone-derived factor involved in metabolism, but also a biomarker of kidney disease and cardiovascular pathophysiology. We conducted this cross-sectional observational study to explore relationships between plasma NGAL and thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients with and without diabetes.

Methods

Plasma NGAL was measured by ELISA, TAC was evaluated via computed tomography scan using a 3D quantification method or chest radiography aortic arch calcification score. Spearman correlation, Logistic regression and Partial correlation analysis were used to describe the correlations between NGAL and TAC.

Results

Plasma NGAL levels were lower in MHD patients with diabetes compared to those without diabetes (49.33(42.37, 55.48) vs 56.78(44.37, 674.13) ng/mL, P = 0.026). In MHD patients without diabetes, lg (NGAL) was positively correlated with ARC value(R = 0.612, P = 0.003) analyzed by Spearman correlation; for partial correlation analysis, lg (NGAL) was positively correlated with ARC value, after adjusting for age and sex (R = 0.550, P = 0.015), adjusting for age, sex and CHD (R = 0.565, P = 0.015), adjusting for age, sex, CHD and Alb (R = 0.536, P = 0.027), or adjusting for age, sex, CHD, Alb, and dialyzer membrane (polysulfone) (R = 0.590, P = 0.016); however, when adjusting for age, sex, CHD, Alb and Ca, the correlation between lg (NGAL) and ARC value disappeared. Positive correlation were found between NGAL and Ca (R = 0.644, P < 0.001), Ca and ACR (R = 0.534, P = 0.013) in Spearman coefficient analysis.

Conclusion

There were positive correlations among plasma NGAL, serum Ca and ARC in MHD patients without diabetes; which suggests that NGAL is possibly a participant in cardiovascular calcification, in non-diabetic MHD.
Sporadic adult-onset neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease without high-intensity signal on DWI and T2WI: a case report
Authors: Wang Hongfen , Feng Feng , Liu Jiajin , Deng Jianwen , Bai Jiongming , Zhang Wei , Wang Luning , Xu Baixuan , Huang Xusheng
Published: April 2022

Background

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a rare neurodegenerative disease characterized by eosinophilic hyaline intranuclear inclusions in cells in the central and peripheral nervous system. High-intensity signal in the corticomedullary junction on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is supportive to the diagnosis of NIID. We describe a patient with sporadic adult-onset NIID but without any high-intensity signal on DWI and T2-weighted imaging (T2WI).

Case presentation

A 58-year-old woman without special family history developed mild persistent tremor in the right hand and deteriorated 2 years later. At 60 years of age, the patient began to conceive the bank, police and internet being deceptive, further presented apathy and confusion after two and a half years, as well as fabrication of non-existent things. Despite the treatment of antipsychotic drugs due to a diagnosis of mental disorder, the patient appeared weakness in the right limbs. Neurological examination revealed mutism, resting tremor, cogwheel-like rigidity in upper limbs, and weakness in all limbs. Brain magnetic resonance imaging displayed no cerebral atrophy initially but atrophy of frontal, temporal and parietal lobes 5 years later. No any high-intensity signal on DWI and T2WI was revealed. However, hypometabolism in the cortexes with atrophy and the right putamen nucleus were showed on 18F-fluoro-deoxy-glucose positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance. On the basis of 107 GGC repeats (normal number <40) in NOTCH2NLC gene and intranuclear inclusions with p62 immunoreactivity in the adipocyte of cutaneous sweat duct by skin biopsy, NIID was finally diagnosed. The symptomatic treatment was given but the patient had no evident improvement.

Conclusions

Our case highlights that despite the lack of high-intensity signal on DWI and T2WI, NIID is still considered for patients with parkinsonism and mental impairment.
Delayed secretory activation and low milk production in women with gestational diabetes: a case series
Authors: Suwaydi Majed A. , Wlodek Mary E. , Lai Ching Tat , Prosser Stuart A. , Geddes Donna T. , Perrella Sharon L.
Published: April 2022

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is major pregnancy complication that is associated with short- and long-term consequences for both mother and infant, including increased risk of diabetes later in life. A longer breastfeeding duration has been associated with a reduced risk of diabetes, however, women with GDM are less likely to exclusively breastfeed and have shorter breastfeeding duration. While the timing of breastfeeding initiation and milk removal frequency affects subsequent breastfeeding outcomes, little is known about early infant feeding practices and milk production in women with GDM. This case series offers detailed prospective breastfeeding initiation data, as well as the first report of objective measures of milk production in women with GDM.

Case presentation

In this case series, we present the early infant feeding practices of eight women with GDM that gave birth at term gestation. Women recorded the timing of initiation of breastfeeding and secretory activation, as well as their breastfeeding, expression and formula feeding frequencies on postpartum days 1, 7 and 21. Measurement of 24 h milk production volume was performed at 3 weeks postpartum using the test weight method. We observed a delayed first breastfeed (> 1 h) in 6 (75%) cases, formula use in hospital in 5 (63%) cases and delayed secretory activation in 3 (38%) cases. At 3 weeks postpartum, 2 cases had measured milk productions that were insufficient to sustain adequate infant weight gain.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that despite early and frequent milk removal, women with GDM are at greater risk of delayed secretory activation and low milk supply. Cohort studies that consider co-morbidities such as obesity are needed to determine the lactation outcomes of women with GDM.
The relationship between health literacy and empowerment in pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tavananezhad Nikta , Bolbanabad Amjad Mohamadi , Ghelichkhani Fatemeh , Effati-Daryani Fatemeh , Mirghafourvand Mojgan
Published: April 2022

Background

Maternal health literacy is defined as the acquisition of required cognitive and social skills to enable women to access, understand, appraise, and use the information needed to maintain and enhance their health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) proposes health literacy and women empowerment as two pivotal components of maternal health improvement programs. In this regard, providing women with education and training in various fields is a key factor for their empowerment, prosperity, and well-being. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the relationship between health literacy and empowerment during pregnancy.

Methods

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study examined 355 pregnant women, presented to different health centers in Sanandaj, Iran, in 2021. The cluster technique was used for sampling. For data collection, the socio-demographic and obstetrics characteristics, health literacy, and pregnant women's empowerment questionnaires were completed by interviewing research subjects. Data analysis was done using t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multivariate linear regression in STATA13.

Results

The mean and standard deviation of health literacy and empowerment were 80.03 ± 12.79 (0–100) and 80.30 ± 8.14 (27–108), respectively. In terms of empowerment, the highest (19.50) and the lowest (12.92) scores were, respectively, observed in subdomains of “self-efficacy” and “the joy of an addition to the family.” With respect to health literacy, the highest (88.52) and lowest (73.78) mean scores were, respectively, observed in the subdomains of “understanding” and “access.” Pearson correlation test suggested that there was a significant direct correlation between the overall health literacy (r = 0.26; p < 0.001) and access (r = 0.18; p = 0.001), understanding (r = 0.11; p = 0.038), evaluation (r = 0.18; p = 0.001), and decision-making (r = 0.33; p < 0.001) with empowerment during pregnancy. Based on the multivariate linear regression model, empowerment during pregnancy improved with increasing health literacy (B = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.09 to 0.23; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results show a direct relationship between health literacy and its dimensions with empowerment during pregnancy. Therefore, it is recommended to improve the health literacy of all women of reproductive age.
Development, implementation and evaluation a palliative care program for colorectal cancer patients: a mixed methods protocol study
Authors: Bahrami Masoud , Masoumy Masoumeh , Sadeghi Alireza , Mosavizadeh Rohallah
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Colorectal cancer(CRC) patients are among the incurable groups who need comprehensive palliative care covering all aspects including physical, mental, social, and spiritual. The purpose of this study is to develop, implement, and evaluate a holistic palliative care program for CRC patients in order to improve quality of life of CRC patients.

Methods

This study is an exploratory mixed methods study which will be conducted using a sequential qualitative-quantitative design (QUAL quan) consists of four sequential steps using the approach proposed by Ewles & Sminett to develop the program. In the first phase, a qualitative study (semi-structured interview) will be conducted to discover the needs of CRC patients from the perspective of patients, family members and care providers. In the second phase, the literature review will be performed with the aim of confirming and completing the discovering new needs. In the third phase, in order to prioritize the identified needs and prepare a initial draft of the palliative care program will be done a panel of experts. In the fourth phase, the part of the developed program according to the opinions of the panel of experts, will be implemented as quasi-experimental intervention and the effect of intervention on quality of life will be evaluated.

Discussion

This results of this study are expected to meet the needs of CRC patients and their families through providing a holistic care and improve their quality of life in the socio-cultural context of Iran. This program can be useful in providing care, education, policy making and for future research.
Acting with awareness moderates the association between lifetime exposure to interpersonal traumatic events and craving via trauma symptoms: a moderated indirect effects model
Authors: Ibañez Gladys E. , Sanchez Mariana , Villalba Karina , Amaro Hortensia
Published: April 2022

Background

History of exposure to traumatic events (ETE) is common among women in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and is related to craving. We examined whether ETE (i.e., emotional, physical, sexual abuse) in childhood, adulthood, or both is related to craving via trauma symptoms and how trait mindfulness might attenuate this association.

Methods

Baseline data from a larger randomized clinical trial of a mindfulness-based intervention for women (N = 245) in SUD treatment were used. Inclusion criteria were: 18–65 years of age, SUD diagnosis, English fluency, no cognitive impairment, and willingness to be audio recorded and provide consent. Demographics and validated measures of ETE, posttraumatic stress symptoms, trait mindfulness, and substance use craving were collected via in-person interviews. Descriptive statistics, correlational analysis, and relative direct, indirect, and conditional indirect effects models were run.

Results

Most participants identified as Hispanic (58.5%), had at least a high school education (52.2%), with a mean age of 32.2. Women reported ETE in childhood only (20.4%), adulthood only (17.5%), both childhood and adulthood (50.0%), and never (11.4%). Compared to women with ETE in both childhood and adulthood, those with exposure in adulthood only (β = -.10, 95% CI = -.20, -.02) or no exposure (β = -.11, 95% CI = -.23, -.03; [∆R2=.347, F(8, 245) = 15.7, p < .001) had lower craving via lower trauma symptomatology but no difference when compared to those with ETE only in childhood. Acting with awareness moderated this indirect effect (∆R2 = .04, F(3, 245) = 4.66, p = .004. At low levels of awareness, women with ETE during both childhood and adulthood reported higher craving via trauma symptomatology than women with no exposure or only adulthood exposure.

Conclusions

Low levels of acting with awareness may worsen trauma symptoms after ETE, which in turn may lead to more craving for women in substance use treatment. Despite a small moderating effect size, acting with awareness may have clinical significance due to the prevalence of trauma symptoms among women in SUD treatment.
Area-level deprivation and adverse childhood experiences among high school students in Maryland
Authors: Kurani Shaheen , Webb Lindsey , Cadet Kechna , Ma Ming , Gibson Marianne , Jallah Nikardi , Park Ju Nyeong , Johnson Renee M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Nearly one-half of Americans have been exposed to at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE) before turning 18, contributing to a broad array of problems spanning physical health, mental and behavioral health, and psychosocial functioning.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, survey research study, using 2018 data from a state adolescent health surveillance system, i.e., Maryland Youth Risk Behavior Survey/Youth Tobacco Survey. The population-based sample of Maryland high school students (n = 41,091) is representative at the state and county levels. The outcome variables included five binary measures of ACEs (i.e., food insecurity, parental substance use/gambling, parental mental illness, family member in jail/prison, and caregiver verbal abuse), and number of ACEs. The main exposure variable, area-level socioeconomic disadvantage, was assessed at the county level using a continuous measure of the area deprivation index (ADI). Additional covariates included: rural county status, age, race/ethnicity, sex, and sexual or gender minority (SGM) status. We used mixed-effect multivariate logistic regression to estimate the odds of ACEs in association with socioeconomic deprivation. Models were adjusted for all covariates.

Results

County-level ADI was associated with 3 of the 5 ACES [i.e., food insecurity (OR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.07–1.13), parental substance use/gambling (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02–1.07), and incarceration of a family member (OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.09–1.19)]; and with having at least one ACE (i.e., OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05–1.10). Odds of reporting at least one ACE were higher among girls, older adolescents (i.e., aged 16 and ≥ 17 relative to those aged ≤ 14 years), and among SGM, Black, and Latinx students (all ORs > 1.20).

Conclusions

ACEs greatly increase risk for adolescent risk behaviors. We observed an increased likelihood of adversity among youth in more deprived counties and among Black, Latinx, or SGM youth, suggesting that social and structural factors play a role in determining the adversity that youth face. Therefore, efforts to address structural factors (e.g., food access, family financial support, imprisonment as a sanction for criminal behavior) could be a critical strategy for primary prevention of ACEs and promoting adolescent health.
Identifying features of source and message that influence the retweeting of health information on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Xie Jingzhong , Liu Liqun
Published: April 2022

Background

Social media has become an essential tool to implement risk communication, giving health information could gain more exposure by retweeting during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Content analysis was conducted to scrutinize the official (national and provincial) public health agencies’ Weibo posts (n = 4396) to identify features of information sources and message features (structure, style content). The Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) model was adopted to analyze the association between these features and the frequency of the retweeted messages.

Results

Results indicated that features of source and health information, such as structure, style, and content, were correlated to retweeting. The results of IRR further suggested that compared to provincial accounts, messages from national health authorities’ accounts gained more retweeting. Regarding the information features, messages with hashtags#, picture, video have been retweeted more often than messages without any of these features respectively, while messages with hyperlinks received fewer retweets than messages without hyperlinks. In terms of the information structure, messages with the sentiment (!) have been retweeted more frequently than messages without sentiment. Concerning content, messages containing severity, reassurance, efficacy, and action frame have been retweeted with higher frequency, while messages with uncertainty frames have been retweeted less often.

Conclusions

Health organizations and medical professionals should pay close attention to the features of health information sources, structures, style, and content to satisfy the public’s information needs and preferences to promote the public's health engagement. Designing suitable information systems and promoting health communication strategies during different pandemic stages may improve public awareness of the COVID-19, alleviate negative emotions, and promote preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Behavioral risk factors associated with reported tick exposure in a Lyme disease high incidence region in Canada
Authors: Aenishaenslin Cécile , Charland Katia , Bowser Natasha , Perez-Trejo Esther , Baron Geneviève , Milord François , Bouchard Catherine
Published: April 2022

Background

Tick-borne diseases, and especially Lyme Disease (LD), are on the rise in Canada and have been met with increasing public health concern. To face these emerging threats, education on the prevention of tick bites remains the mainstay of public health intervention. The objective of this study was to assess the adoption of preventive behaviors toward tick bites and LD and to investigate the association between behavioral risk factors and reported tick exposure in a Canadian, LD high incidence region (Estrie region, Quebec, Canada).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 which used a telephone questionnaire administered to a random sample of 10,790 adult residents of the study region. Questions investigated tick exposure, LD awareness, attitudes towards LD risk, outdoor and preventive behaviors, as well as antibiotic post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatments in the case of a tick bite. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were carried out, considering the nine administrative subregions and the stratified survey design.

Results

The sub-regional prevalence of reported tick exposure in the previous year ranged from 3.4 to 21.9%. The proportion of respondents that adopted preventive behaviors varied from 27.0% (tick checks) to 30.1% (tick repellent) and 44.6% (shower after outdoor activities). A minority of respondents (15.9%) that sought healthcare after a tick bite received a PEP treatment. Performing tick checks (Odds ratio = 4.33), time spent outdoors (OR = 3.09) and living in a subregion with a higher public health LD risk level (OR = 2.14) were associated with reported tick exposure in multivariable models.

Conclusions

This study highlights the low level of adoption of preventive behaviors against tick bites in a region where LD risk is amongst the highest in Canada. This suggests a concerning lack of improvement in LD prevention, as low levels of adoption were already reported in studies conducted in the last decade. Innovative and evidence-based approaches to improve education on ticks and tick-borne diseases and to promote behavior changes are urgently needed in Canada.
Case report of vaginal erosion and recurrence of stress urinary incontinence due to shallow placement of tension-free vaginal tape
Authors: Huang Xiao
Published: April 2022

Background

Suburethral sling with tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) has become a popular treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Erosion of the tape into the vaginal is rare. Very few patients present with vaginal tape erosion and recurrence of SUI.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old female patient with stress urinary incontinence was treated with a retropubic suburethral TVT sling. 2 months later, recurrent symptoms of SUI developed. 6 months later, the patient complained of repeated vaginal discharge and foreign body sensation. Body physical examination revealed a 1-cm-long tape extrusion at the left anterior vaginal wall beside the midline. Cystourethroscopy revealed no urethral mesh erosion. Surgical removal of the extrusion tape revealed that the left arm of the tape was in the vaginal mucosa layer rather than between the whole thickness of the vaginal mucosa and urethral. The tape around the urethral was dissected and removed. A new retropubic tape was placed simultaneously. At the 8-months follow-up after surgery, the patient was continent without tape vaginal exposure.

Conclusions

Vaginal mesh erosion should be considered in a patient who presents with sustained vaginal discharge after being treated with a suburethral sling. It is important to place the tape between the whole thickness of the vaginal mucosa and the urethral in SUI surgery. A shallow placement of the tape may lead to vaginal tape erosion and recurrence of SUI. These complications can be avoided by following the correct manipulation procedure and referring to the tissue layer anatomy.
What works in appraisal meetings for newly graduated doctors? – and what doesn’t?
Authors: Møller Marianne Kleis , Sørensen Anita , Andreassen Pernille , Malling Bente
Published: April 2022

Background

In Denmark a national formal advisory program (NFAP) is mandatory in Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME). According to this, an educational advisor is assigned to each doctor in every clinical rotation to guide and oversee the work and learning progress of the trainee.

This study explores why newly graduated trainees evaluated the appraisal meetings in the advisory program as either beneficial (successes) or not beneficial (non-successes).

Methods

Inspired by the Success Case Method, a survey was conducted among all 129 doctors employed in their first six-month clinical rotation of postgraduate medical education (PGY1) in the Central Denmark Region. A cluster analysis resulted in a group with eight successes respectively seven non-successes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six successes and five non-successes.

Results

In contrast to non-successes, the successes had longer appraisal meetings and their advisor introduced them to purpose and process of meetings including use of the personal learning plan. Successes received feedback on clinical skills, overall global performance and career plans. The successes perceived their advisors as prepared, skilled and motivated and the advisor acted as a contact person.

To the successes, the appraisal meetings fostered clarification of and reflections on educational goals, progress and career as well as self-confidence and a sense of security.

Conclusion

Success with appraisal meetings seemed to depend on advisor’s skills and motivation including willingness to prioritize time for this task.

The results from this study indicate the importance of faculty development. It also raises the question if all doctors should serve as advisors or if this task should be assigned to the most motivated candidates.
Health systems’ preparedness to provide post-abortion care: assessment of health facilities in Burkina Faso, Kenya and Nigeria
Authors: Juma Kenneth , Ouedraogo Ramatou , Amo-Adjei Joshua , Sie Ali , Ouattara Mamadou , Emma-Echiegu Nkechi , Eton Joseph , Mutua Michael , Bangha Martin
Published: April 2022

Background

In many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, access to abortion is legally restricted, which partly contributes to high incidence of unsafe abortion. This may result in unsafe abortion-related complications that demand long hospital stays, treatment and attendance by skilled health providers. There is however, limited knowledge on the capacity of public health facilities to deliver post-abortion care (PAC), and the spread of PAC services in these settings. We describe and discuss the preparedness and capacity of public health facilities to deliver complete and quality PAC services in Burkina Faso, Kenya and Nigeria.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of primary, secondary and tertiary-level public health facilities was conducted between November 2018 and February 2019 in the three countries. Data on signal functions (including information on essential equipment and supplies, staffing and training among others) for measuring the ability of health facilities to provide post-abortion services were collected and analyzed.

Results

Across the three countries, fewer primary health facilities (ranging from 6.3–12.1% in Kenya and Burkina Faso) had the capacity to deliver on all components of basic PAC services. Approximately one-third (26–43%) of referral facilities across Burkina Faso, Kenya and Nigeria could provide comprehensive PAC services. Lack of trained staff, absence of necessary equipment and lack of PAC commodities and supplies were a main reason for inability to deliver specific PAC services (such as surgical procedures for abortion complications, blood transfusion and post-PAC contraceptive counselling). Further, the lack of capacity to refer acute PAC cases to higher-level facilities was identified as a key weakness in provision of post-abortion care services.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal considerable gaps and weaknesses in the delivery of basic and comprehensive PAC within the three countries, linked to both the legal and policy contexts for abortion as well as broad health system challenges in the countries. There is a need for increased investments by governments to strengthen the capacity of primary, secondary and tertiary public health facilities to deliver quality PAC services, in order to increase access to PAC and avert preventable maternal mortalities.
The impact of COVID-19 on service delivery systems: evidence from a survey of United States refugee resettlement agencies
Authors: Moise Imelda K. , Ortiz-Whittingham Lola R. , Omachonu Vincent , Sheskin Ira M. , Patel Roshni , Meguro Julia Ayumi Schmidt , Lucas Alexia Georgina , Bice William , Thompson Leila Mae
Published: April 2022

Background

Key to the US refugee resettlement effort is the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) who receive, place, and provide transitional programs and referrals to new and recently resettled refugees. Yet only one rapid assessment study thus far examined the impact of COVID-19 on service delivery systems of US refugee resettlement agencies. This exploratory study describes the capability and preparedness of US refugee resettlement agencies to provide services and care to clients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Using both telephone interviews and an internet survey, we assessed the impact of COVID-19 on service delivery, agency capacity, and preparedness of 101 US refugee resettlement agencies. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the dataset, while chi-square (χ2) tests were used to examine relationships by resettlement agency size (number of employees in each agency).

Results

Despite a temporary pause on refugee admissions, restrictive stay-at-home orders, and refugee travel restrictions, the majority of responding US refugee resettlement agencies continued to provide specialized services and care to resettled refugees and other immigrants. Among the more important findings was that agencies that continued to provide refugee services and care onsite in their existing facilities or office rather than moving such services offsite differed by agency size [χ2 (9.494, n = 101), p < 0.05]. Almost all agencies (93.1%) strongly agreed or agreed that staff have timely access to COVID-19 information. Most of the refugee services were provided offsite (n = 72 agencies, some with multiple offices across the US).

Conclusions

US refugee resettlement agencies continued to perform admirably despite a lack of funding. Future research is underway to obtain a more balanced understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on practice or operations.