bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construyendo puentes entre los mundos del counseling y la filosofía. Lecciones desde el mundo de Karl Jaspers.
Authors: Jones Shanti
Published: January 2023

Karl Jaspers, psiquiatra convertido en filósofo, siempre mantuvo el interés por todas las facetas del ser humano. Por ello, sus escritos contienen ideas que pueden ser útiles para los consejeros de todas las tendencias. Este artículo presenta cuatro de las ideas de Jaspers que, consideradas en conjunto, crean un bucle de reacción para mejorar la eficacia del counseling. La primera, las situaciones límite, abarca el tipo de situaciones en las que suele encontrarse un cliente cuando decide buscar ayuda, por ejemplo, encuentros con la muerte, el sufrimiento, la culpa o la pérdida. La segunda, el uso de vínculos importantes, implica la búsqueda y el establecimiento de relaciones importantes que den lugar a una mayor comprensión de lo que el propio cliente considera importante. La tercera, el uso de símbolos, facilita el encuentro de la clienta con el Ser y le da acceso a la verdad. La cuarta, la libertad, anima a la clienta a sopesar todas las posibilidades de una situación y a elegir lo que es mejor para ella. El proceso dinámico que se produce al interactuar con estas cuatro ideas a lo largo del proceso de asesoramiento puede permitir a la clienta tener un concepto más fuerte de sí misma y ser más decidida como sujeto de su vida. El estudio de caso de una niña de trece años, cuyo problema era que se autolesionaba, se utiliza para demostrar cómo estas cuatro ideas pueden dar resultados eficaces.
Traffic Emissions due to Changes in Road Layout in Developing Township Related to Double Track Rail Project Constructions
Authors: Sulaiman Maisarah , Ramli Nor Azam , Ibrahim Wan Hashim Wan , Rasli Nur Baitul Izati , Ismail Mohd Rodzi , Shith Syabiha
Published: January 2023

Traffic emissions in developing townships are less studied compared to major townships and cities. The Electrified Double-Track Project (EDTP) rail line is a linear project traversing from south to north of peninsular Malaysia. Construction of this line has somewhat affected the traffic flow in terms of delay and congestion, affecting traffic-related emissions. A study on the emission fluctuations due to traffic flow changes during the electrified double-track rail line construction was carried out in Parit Buntar, a developing township north of Peninsular Malaysia. Currently, not many primary study reports furnish insights into the effect of the project’s construction phase. Sidra 6.1 were used to estimate the traffic flow delay and level of service (LOS) at signalised intersections from traffic surveys of six intersections. These inputs were also used to estimate the fuel consumption and cost of fuel consumption for all three stages of emission contribution, namely before construction, during construction, and after construction (commissioning phase). The respective fuel consumption (L/hr.) before the construction, during construction, and post-construction were (437, 174, and 198) at J1, (-, 1650, and 264) at J2, (475, 2429, and 2384) at J3, (332, 336, and 261) at J4, and (206, 13996, and 452) at J5. This study found that a proper signal phasing post construction has improved delay time and traffic emission. The findings should be relevant for researchers interested in the emissions within the developing townships, especially in enhancing road layouts for the sustainability of life and well-being in the local and broader contexts.
Performance Evaluation of Split Air Conditioner with Consideration of Pressure Drop in Evaporator and Condenser
Authors: Mishra Punit , Soni Shubham , Maheshwari Govind
Published: January 2023

In this research, a split air conditioner's performance has been evaluated using exergy analysis on three different low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, namely R32, R447A, and R447B, to find a replacement for the GWP-high refrigerant R410A. With regard for pressure loss in the evaporator and condenser, a computational model is built to recreate the operational conditions of a split air conditioner. GENETRON Properties 1.4 software is used to calculate performance metrics such as coefficient of performance (COP), exergy destruction ratio, exergetic efficiency, and efficiency defect. Result shows that pressure drop in evaporator alone has an adverse effect on COP and total exergy destruction and it is higher at higher pressure drop. Effect of pressure drop on exergetic efficiency and exergy destruction ratio is found to be less significant with condenser pressure drop compared to evaporator pressure drop. Exergy efficiency is found to be maximum with R447A followed by R447B, R32, and R410A.
A Meta-Analysis on the Effectiveness of Sand Play Therapy in Adults
Authors: Koh Haeju , Ha Jineui
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the study was to investigate the total effect size of the domestic adult sandplay therapy, the effect size according to treatment variables such as the total number of sessions, the number of sessions per session, and the dependent variables such as psychological variable group, social variable group, and physiological variable group. To this end, 19 related academic journals and master's and doctorate thesis were selected from 2000 to 2020, and a total of 166 effect sizes were calculated. As a result of the study, the overall average effect size was.749, which was the medium effect size and was statistically significant. As a result of the analysis of the effects according to the treatment variables of the effect size per the total number of sessions was found to be most effective in the 12-session program, and the effect size in line with the number of sessions per week, was described as a medium effect size for both one session and two sessions, but the difference in the effect size was not statistically significant. In terms of the effect size for hours per session, 60 minutes was the most effective. As a result of analyzing the effect of the dependent variables, the effect size of the psychological variables was found to be the most effective. This study proved its effectiveness by conducting a meta-analysis study on sandplay therapy for adults in Korea, and it is meaningful that treatment variables and the dependent variables should be considered when constructing sandplay for adults It is also meaningful in that it provided practical data on the need and development of sandplay therapy to improve mental health and sociality, and physiological changes of adults at psychological counseling and treatment sites.
Providing structured stoma care through established patient pathways
Authors: Marinova Petya , Marinova Rali
Published: January 2023

Marinova and Marinova outline the stoma patient pathway at St Mark's Hospital, London, highlighting how care provision throughout the stoma journey can improve patient outcomes and reduce costs to the NHS.
Gender and humour.
Authors: Kotthoff Helga
Published: January 2023

The article presents a research overview on developments in the field of gender and humour over the last fifty years, going back a bit further in relation to literature and film. The research comes mainly from linguistics and communication studies, but also from sociology, psychology, literature and media studies. Most changes lie in the appropriation of multifaceted humorous forms by girls and women. Humour becomes apparent as a component of a social semiotics that indexes and stylizes (non)traditional gender poles. The sub-themes revolve around humour development in children, laughter as a form of communication, humour in the world of work and in the media.
Giant Cell Tumor of Talus: A Case Report
Authors: Chaudhary Sumedh D , Agrawal Pravin S , Sakharkar Nilesh S
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Giant cell tumor of bone most commonly involves ends of the long bones in a skeletally mature patient. Giant cell tumor of the bones of the hand and feet is very rare, so is the giant cell tumor of talus. Case Report: We are reporting a case of giant cell tumor of talus in a 17-year-old female who presented with a history of pain and swelling around left ankle since 10 months. Radiographs of the ankle showed lytic expansile lesion involving whole of talus. Talectomy followed by calcaneo-tibial fusion was done as intralesional curettage was not feasible in this patient. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of giant cell tumor. There was no evidence of recurrence even at 9 years follow-up and the patient was able to carry out her daily activities without much discomfort. Conclusion: Giant cell tumor is most commonly encountered around the knee or distal radius. Involvement of foot bones especially talus is extremely uncommon. In early presentation, extended intralesional curettage with bone grafting and, in late, talectomy with tibiocalcaneal fusion are the treatment options.
Analysing the contextual factors that promote and constrain policy learning in local government
Authors: Taylor Kristin , Jeschke Nathan , Zarb Stephanie
Published: January 2023

Policy learning is an important part of the policy process that crosscuts multiple frameworks. However, policy learning is difficult to model and predict, and even less is known about the extent to which community characteristics affect policy learning. This article examines the contextual factors that promote and constrain policy learning in local government by identifying factors that promote learning. The central theory is that community characteristics, experience with a policy problem, and the type of subnational government will be important factors. We examine this in the context of primary data collected after Hurricane Harvey from open-ended interviews with 22 local government officials across Southeast Texas. Using a mixed methodology, we leverage the results of content analysis and Poisson regression. We find that cities with higher median incomes and larger populations are more likely to experience policy learning. Experience is not an important predictor of policy learning, suggesting possible maturation effects in the learning process. Given the long-term challenges posed by natural hazards and disasters, this puts smaller and less affluent communities at higher risk. If equitable risk and recovery is the goal of disaster policy, efforts must be made to either increase capacity or provide more resources to local governments with less capacity.
Survey of academic staff and higher degree research students in a university school of health and rehabilitation sciences about practices, attitudes, knowledge and confidence in knowledge translation and communicating impact
Authors: Doig Emmah , Auld Megan , Bennett Sally , Schulz Michael , Hill Annie , Setchell Jenny , Finch Emma , Schmulian Dunay , Adalja Bhavya , Hodges Paul
Published: January 2023

Background:

Universities are major producers of research evidence, and timely translation and uptake of evidence to sectors such as healthcare is imperative to inform best practice. Knowledge translation (KT) is complex and there is increasing awareness of the need for KT to facilitate evidence-informed changes, with grant funders increasingly requiring researchers to demonstrate KT and research impact. Despite this, there is little research about KT in university settings related to healthcare research.

Aims and objectives:

To evaluate the practice, attitudes, knowledge, confidence and perceived support needs in KT and communicating impact of university staff and higher degree research (HDR) students.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 42 staff and 19 HDR students in a Health and Rehabilitation Sciences School in an Australian University setting. Descriptive and correlational quantitative analyses and qualitative content analysis of responses to open-ended questions was carried out.

Findings:

Participants regarded skills in KT and communicating impact as necessary for their work, and wanted support to build their capacity. Despite previous training for staff in some areas of KT and high levels of research experience of the staff in this sample, the level of knowledge, confidence and frequency of their KT practices was relatively low.

Discussion and conclusion:

There is a need to design and evaluate initiatives which aim to improve knowledge and skills, such as training and resources, as well as organisational structures that facilitate staff to plan and carry out KT activities concurrently with research production.
Local polarization properties extraction using single incident state, single-mode-fiber-based spectral domain polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography
Authors: Wu Tong , Zou Jincong , Liu Youwen , Lu Yuangang , Wang Jiming , Shi Yaoyao , Shen Hong , Gu Xiaorong , He Chongjun
Published: January 2023

We showed the local polarization properties extraction method for the single incident state, all-single-mode-fiber-based spectral domain polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (SD-PS-OCT) system that uses the single linear-in-wavenumber spectral camera. Polarization controllers are used in the single-mode-fiber-based SD-PS-OCT system to provide a compact structure with polarization state stability. The local polarization properties of the birefringent sample are extracted from the cumulative polarization properties iteratively. The reconstructed polarization images demonstrate the local polarization properties extraction ability of the system.
High-order vortex harmonic generation with circular Airy vortex beams
Authors: Shen Fengbei , Pang Zeyue , Wang Chunya , Hong Weiyi
Published: January 2023

High-order harmonic generation (HHG) driven by an abruptly autofocusing circular Airy vortex beam (CAiVB) is investigated here. The autofocusing property of the CAiVB gives HHG a low initial intensity. The slow divergence after focusing provides a long and sufficiently intense region, which is favorable for HHG. Here, we analyze the phase-matching mechanism in detail by plotting the spatial diagram of the coherence length, while simulating HHG driven by the CAiVB carrying distinct orbital angular momentum in a gas medium, as well as the harmonic distributions in the near and far fields.
Video super-resolution for single-photon LIDAR
Authors: Mora-Martín Germán , Scholes Stirling , Ruget Alice , Henderson Robert , Leach Jonathan , Gyongy Istvan
Published: January 2023

3D time-of-flight (ToF) image sensors are used widely in applications such as self-driving cars, augmented reality (AR), and robotics. When implemented with single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs), compact, array format sensors can be made that offer accurate depth maps over long distances, without the need for mechanical scanning. However, array sizes tend to be small, leading to low lateral resolution, which combined with low signal-to-background ratio (SBR) levels under high ambient illumination, may lead to difficulties in scene interpretation. In this paper, we use synthetic depth sequences to train a 3D convolutional neural network (CNN) for denoising and upscaling (×4) depth data. Experimental results, based on synthetic as well as real ToF data, are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the scheme. With GPU acceleration, frames are processed at >30 frames per second, making the approach suitable for low-latency imaging, as required for obstacle avoidance.
Monitoring sidewall tilting of pixelated nanogratings in 3D display
Authors: Chen Chao , Chen Xiuguo , Sheng Sheng , Xia Zhongwen , Shi Jiacheng , Qiao Wen , Liu Shiyuan
Published: January 2023

Sidewall tilting is an important parameter to describe the grating morphology and would affect the diffraction efficiency of three-dimensional (3D) display devices based on pixelated nanogratings. However, there is currently a lack of a non-destructive measurement method that can accurately measure the sidewall tilting of the pixelated nanogratings. This is mainly because the kind of nanograting is manufactured in a micron-scale pixel region and the grating lines generally have various directions to ensure that the display device can display images smoothly. In this work, we propose to use a home-made imaging Mueller matrix ellipsometer (IMME) to monitor sidewall tilting of pixelated nanogratings. Simulation and experiments were carried out to characterize the sidewall tilting angle. Through the combination of Mueller matrix elements, we can quickly and qualitatively identify the tilting angle for the purpose of on-line quality monitoring of the device. Through the inverse calculation of the Mueller matrix, we can accurately and quantitatively obtain the value of the tilting, so as to meet the demands of the device design. It is expected the proposed method can provide guidance for the identification and detection of tilting in 3D display elements based on pixelated gratings.
Trajectory-controlled high-order harmonic generation in ZnO crystals
Authors: Wang Yang , Shao Tianjiao , Li Xiaofang , Liu Yu , Jiang Pengzuo , Zheng Wei , Zhang Linfeng , Bian Xue-Bin , Liu Yunquan , Gong Qihuang , Wu Chengyin
Published: January 2023

We experimentally and theoretically study high-order harmonic generation in zinc oxide crystals irradiated by mid-infrared lasers. The trajectories are mapped to the far field spatial distribution of harmonics. The divergence angles of on-axis and off-axis parts exhibit different dependences on the order of the harmonics. This observation can be theoretically reproduced by the coherent interference between the short and long trajectories with dephasing time longer than 0.5 optical cycle. Further, the relative contribution of the short and long trajectories is demonstrated to be accurately controlled by a one-color or two-color laser on the attosecond time scale. This work provides a reliable method to determine the electron dephasing time and demonstrates a versatile control of trajectory interference in the solid high-order harmonic generation.
Phase error model and compensation method for reflectivity and distance discontinuities in fringe projection profilometry
Authors: Hu Changping , Liu Shuntao , Wu Dan , Xu Jing
Published: January 2023

Phase shifting fringe projection profilometry is a widely used optical 3D surface measurement method due to its high resolution, high speed, and full-field inspection. However, the measurement accuracy decreases in regions with a reflectivity or distance discontinuity. To this end, first, a general continuous quasi-one-dimensional phase error model is proposed for discontinuity representation. Second, the discontinuities are further divided into degenerate and nondegenerate discontinuities to improve the computational speed. Third, a phase error compensation algorithm is proposed with a parameter estimation method to improve the measurement accuracy. Simulations and experiments demonstrate that the proposed methods are effective.
Customizing non-diffracting structured beams
Authors: Lan Yanping , Hu Juntao , Ye Wenni , Zeng Peiqi , Qian Yixian
Published: January 2023

We demonstrate a universal approach to designing and generating non-diffracting structured light beams with arbitrary shapes. Such light beams can be tailored by predefining suitable spectral phases that match the corresponding beam shapes in the transverse plane. We develop a practical spectral superposition algorithm to discuss the non-diffracting properties and experimentally confirm our numerical results. Our proposed approach differs from that of classical non-diffracting beams, which are always constructed from wave equation solutions. The various non-diffracting structured beams could help manipulate particles following arbitrary transverse shapes and are likely to give rise to new applications in optical micromachining.
Optical wavelength meter with machine learning enhanced precision
Authors: Hasan Gazi Mahamud , Hasan Mehedi , Liu Peng , Rad Mohammad , Bernier Eric , Hall Trevor James
Published: January 2023

A photonic implementation of a wavelength meter typically applies an interferometer to measure the frequency-dependent phase shift provided by an optical delay line. This work shows that the information to be retrieved is encoded by a vector restricted to a circular cone within a 3D Cartesian object space. The measured data belong to the image of the object space under a linear orthogonal map. Component impairments result in broken orthogonal symmetry, but the mapping remains linear. The circular cone is retained as the object space, which suggests that the conventional conic section fitting for the wavelength meter application is a premature reduction of the object space from R3 to R2. The inverse map, constructed by a learning algorithm, compensates impairments such as source intensity fluctuation and errors in delay time, coupler transmission, and photoreceiver sensitivity while being robust to noise. The simple algorithm does not require initial estimates for all parameters except for a broad bracket of the delay; further, weak nonlinearity introduced by uncertain delay can be corrected by a robust golden search algorithm. The phase-retrieval process is invariant to source power and its fluctuation. Simulations demonstrate that, to the extent that the ten parameters of the interferometer model capture all significant impairments, a precision limited only by the level of random noise is attainable. Applied to measured data collected from a fabricated Si3N4 wavelength meter, greater than an order of magnitude improvement in precision compared with the conventional method is achieved.
Shape memory alloy-based 3D morphologically reconfigurable chiral metamaterial for tailoring circular dichroism by voltage control
Authors: Jiang Lixin , Yuan Qi , Yang Hao , Li Yongfeng , Zheng Lin , Zhu Zhibiao , Liang Shuang , Pang Yongqiang , Wang He , Wang Jiafu , Qu Shaobo
Published: January 2023

Three-dimensional chiral materials with intrinsic chirality play a crucial role in achieving a strong chiral response and flexible light manipulation. Reconfigurable chirality through the 3D morphological transformation of chiral materials is significant for greater freedom in tailoring light but remains a challenge. Inspired by the unique 3D morphological memory capability of shape memory alloys (SMAs), we demonstrate and discuss a chiral resonator in the microwave regime that can realize reconfigurable chirality through 3D morphological transformation. The introduction of heating film realizes voltage control of SMA’s morphology for utilizing the temperature sensitivity of SMA better, enabling arbitrary control of circular dichroism (CD) flip and CD intensity. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of the surface current distribution of chiral enantiomers reveals that the chirality of meta-atoms originates from the surge of electric dipole

p

x

and electric quadrupole Q. It is worth mentioning that the proposed strategy to achieve reconfigurable chirality using 3D morphological transformations can be directly extended to other higher frequencies, such as visible, infrared, and terahertz bands. Significantly, our paradigm to study the relationship between complex 3D morphology and chirality holds potential for application in biosensing, spin detection, and spin-selective devices.
A central CRMP complex essential for invasion in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Singer Mirko , Simon Kathrin , Forné Ignasi , Meissner Markus
Published: January 2023

Apicomplexa are obligate intracellular parasites. While most species are restricted to specific hosts and cell types, Toxoplasma gondii can invade every nucleated cell derived from warm-blooded animals. This broad host range suggests that this parasite can recognize multiple host cell ligands or structures, leading to the activation of a central protein complex, which should be conserved in all apicomplexans. During invasion, the unique secretory organelles (micronemes and rhoptries) are sequentially released and several micronemal proteins have been suggested to be required for host cell recognition and invasion. However, to date, only few micronemal proteins have been demonstrated to be essential for invasion, suggesting functional redundancy that might allow such a broad host range. Cysteine Repeat Modular Proteins (CRMPs) are a family of apicomplexan-specific proteins. In T. gondii, two CRMPs are present in the genome, CRMPA (TGGT1_261080) and CRMPB (TGGT1_292020). Here, we demonstrate that both proteins form a complex that contains the additional proteins MIC15 and the thrombospondin type 1 domain-containing protein (TSP1). Disruption of this complex results in a block of rhoptry secretion and parasites being unable to invade the host cell. In conclusion, this complex is a central invasion complex conserved in all apicomplexans.
Dorsal root ganglia control nociceptive input to the central nervous system
Authors: Hao Han , Ramli Rosmaliza , Wang Caixue , Liu Chao , Shah Shihab , Mullen Pierce , Lall Varinder , Jones Frederick , Shao Jicheng , Zhang Hailin , Jaffe David B. , Gamper Nikita , Du Xiaona
Published: January 2023

Accumulating observations suggest that peripheral somatosensory ganglia may regulate nociceptive transmission, yet direct evidence is sparse. Here, in experiments on rats and mice, we show that the peripheral afferent nociceptive information undergoes dynamic filtering within the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and suggest that this filtering occurs at the axonal bifurcations (t-junctions). Using synchronous in vivo electrophysiological recordings from the peripheral and central processes of sensory neurons (in the spinal nerve and dorsal root), ganglionic transplantation of GABAergic progenitor cells, and optogenetics, we demonstrate existence of tonic and dynamic filtering of action potentials traveling through the DRG. Filtering induced by focal application of GABA or optogenetic GABA release from the DRG-transplanted GABAergic progenitor cells was specific to nociceptive fibers. Light-sheet imaging and computer modeling demonstrated that, compared to other somatosensory fiber types, nociceptors have shorter stem axons, making somatic control over t-junctional filtering more efficient. Optogenetically induced GABA release within DRG from the transplanted GABAergic cells enhanced filtering and alleviated hypersensitivity to noxious stimulation produced by chronic inflammation and neuropathic injury in vivo. These findings support “gating” of pain information by DRGs and suggest new therapeutic approaches for pain relief.
Beyond the average: An updated framework for understanding the relationship between cell growth, DNA replication, and division in a bacterial system
Authors: Sanders Sara , Joshi Kunaal , Levin Petra Anne , Iyer-Biswas Srividya
Published: January 2023

Our understanding of the bacterial cell cycle is framed largely by population-based experiments that focus on the behavior of idealized average cells. Most famously, the contributions of Cooper and Helmstetter help to contextualize the phenomenon of overlapping replication cycles observed in rapidly growing bacteria. Despite the undeniable value of these approaches, their necessary reliance on the behavior of idealized average cells masks the stochasticity inherent in single-cell growth and physiology and limits their mechanistic value. To bridge this gap, we propose an updated and agnostic framework, informed by extant single-cell data, that quantitatively accounts for stochastic variations in single-cell dynamics and the impact of medium composition on cell growth and cell cycle progression. In this framework, stochastic timers sensitive to medium composition impact the relationship between cell cycle events, accounting for observed differences in the relationship between cell cycle events in slow- and fast-growing cells. We conclude with a roadmap for potential application of this framework to longstanding open questions in the bacterial cell cycle field.
Late antenatal care booking and associated factors among pregnant women in Mizan-Aman town, South West Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Battu Gelila Gashawbeza , Kassa Roza Teshome , Negeri Haweni Adugna , kitawu Leul Deribe , Alemu Kassahun Demelash
Published: January 2023

Background

Antenatal care (ANC) is one of the most important ways to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. According to data from poor countries, the majority of pregnant women attend ANC when they are in their later stages of pregnancy. In this regard, limited information is currently known about the factors that determine ANC scheduling and the type of care for pregnant women in the town of Mizan-Aman in southwestern Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine late antenatal care booking and associated factors among pregnant women in the Town.

Method

The institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in Mizan-Aman town using a systematic random sampling method through structured questions from February 15 to March 25, 2021. The collected data was entered into EPI info-7 which later on, was exported to SPSS version 20 for statistical analysis. Binary and multiple logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors and p-value <0.05 was considered for statistical significance.

Results

A total of 425 female pregnant women participated, making a 100% response rate. The prevalence of delayed first ANC bookings in this study was 70.0% [95.0%, CI = 65.65–74.35]. Multivariate analysis revealed that unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.18, 5.85], inappropriate perception of ANC starting time [AOR = 4.1, 95% CI: 1.9, 8.83], pregnant women who were unaware of pregnancy-related danger signs [AOR = 6.76, 95% CI: 2.83, 16.1], and pregnant women who were unaware of service delivery during working hours in the institution [AOR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.19, 0.98].

Conclusion

The current study showed a greater prevalence of delayed ANC beginnings, and the factors for this were having an unplanned pregnancy, lack of awareness about pregnancy danger signs, inappropriate perception of ANC starting time, and pregnant women who were unaware of service delivery during working hours at the institution. Responsible bodies working in maternal and child health care better create awareness of the benefits of early ANC booking and appropriate ANC starting times. Further, each health institution’s MCH clinic should deliver the service through working hours.
“Right now we are scared of each other, we fear everyone, the whole world has COVID”: The impact of COVID-19 on young female sex workers in Kampala, Uganda, during national lockdowns in 2020–2021
Authors: King Rachel , Namugumya Ritah , Namuddu Catherine , Mbazzi Femke Bannink , Kasujja Francis Xavier , Nankabirwa Judith , Seeley Janet
Published: January 2023

In 2020–2021 the COVID-19 pandemic led to multiple and diverse global public health response strategies globally and in Uganda to slow the spread of the virus by promoting wearing face coverings in public, frequent hand washing, physical distancing, restricting travel, and imposing home lockdowns. We conducted 146 interviews over four rounds of phone-follow up calls over 15 months with 125 young female sex workers coinciding in time with four different government-imposed lockdown periods in Kampala, Uganda, to assess the impact of these measures on young sex workers, their families and their communities as well as to gauge their resilience. Our findings revealed how COVID-19 fears and public health restrictions over time pushed an already marginalized population to the brink and how that pressure drove some participants into a new way of life.
US and EU Free Trade Agreements and implementation of policies to control tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy food and drinks: A quasi-experimental analysis
Authors: Barlow Pepita , Allen Luke N.
Published: January 2023

Background

Identifying and tackling the factors that undermine regulation of unhealthy commodities is an essential component of effective noncommunicable disease (NCD) prevention. Unhealthy commodity producers may use rules in US and EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to challenge policies targeting their products. We aimed to test whether there was a statistical relationship between US and EU FTA participation and reduced implementation of WHO-recommended policies.

Methods and findings

We performed a statistical analysis assessing the probability of at least partially implementing 10 tobacco, alcohol, and unhealthy food and drink policies in 127 countries in 2014, 2016, and 2019. We assessed differences in implementation of these policies in countries with and without US/EU FTAs. We used matching to conduct 48 covariate-adjusted quasi-experimental comparisons across 27 matched US/EU FTA members (87 country-years) and performed additional analyses and robustness checks to assess alternative explanations for our results. Out of our 48 tests, 19% (9/48) identified a statistically significant decrease in the predicted probability of at least partially implementing the unhealthy commodity policy in question, while 2% (1/48) showed an increase. However, there was marked heterogeneity across policies. At the level of individual policies, US FTA participation was associated with a 37% reduction (95%CI: −0.51 to −0.22) in the probability of fully implementing graphic tobacco warning policies, and a 53% reduction (95%CI: −0.63 to −0.43) in the probability of at least partially implementing smoke-free place policies. EU FTA participation was associated with a 28% reduction (95%CI: −0.45 to −0.10) in the probability of fully implementing graphic tobacco warning policies, and a 25% reduction (95%CI: −0.47 to −0.03) in the probability of fully implementing restrictions on child marketing of unhealthy food and drinks. There was a positive association with implementing fat limits and bans, but this was not robust. Associations with other outcomes were not significant. The main limitations included residual confounding, limited ability to discern precise mechanisms of influence, and potentially limited generalisability to other FTAs.

Conclusions

US and EU FTA participation may reduce the probability of implementing WHO-recommended tobacco and child food marketing policies by between a quarter and a half—depending on the FTA and outcome in question. Governments negotiating or participating in US/EU FTAs may need to establish robust health protections and mitigation strategies to achieve their NCD mortality reduction targets.
Association of BCC Module Roll-Out in SHG meetings with changes in complementary feeding and dietary diversity among children (6–23 months)? Evidence from JEEViKA in Rural Bihar, India
Authors: Mondal Sudipta , Joe William , Akhauri Santosh , Thakur Putul , Kumar Abhishek , Pradhan Narottam , Thatte Prasann , Jha Rakesh Kumar , Purty Apolenarius , Chaudhuri Indrajit
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Child dietary diversity is very low across rural communities in Bihar. Based on the experience of behavior change communication (BCC) module roll out in self-help group (SHG) sessions in rural Bihar, this study aims to assess the impact of the intervention on child dietary diversity levels in the beneficiary groups.

Methods

The study is based on a pre-post study design whereby child dietary diversity is examined for a sample of 300 children (6–23 months old from 60 village organizations) during both pre-intervention as well as post-intervention phase. The latter consists of two types of group viz. a) children whose mothers were directly exposed to BCC module in SHGs sessions and b) those who were non-participants but may have indirect exposure through spillovers of BCC activities. Econometric analysis including logistic regression as well as propensity score matching techniques are applied for estimating the changes in dietary diversity in the post-intervention phase.

Results

During the pre-intervention phase, 19% of the children (6–23 months) had adequate dietary diversity (eating from at least 4 out of 7 different food groups) and this increased to 49% among the exposed group and to 28% among the non-exposed group in the post-intervention phase. The exposed group have an odds ratio of 3.81 (95% CI: 2.03, 7.15) for consuming diverse diet when compared to the pre-intervention group. The propensity score matching analysis finds a 33% average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) for the group participating in BCC sessions at SHG events.

Conclusion

BCC roll out among SHG members is an effective mode to increase dietary diversity among infants and young children. The impact on child dietary diversity was significantly higher among mothers directly exposed to BCC modules. The BCC module also improved knowledge and awareness levels on complementary feeding and child dietary diversity.
A living biobank of matched pairs of patient-derived xenografts and organoids for cancer pharmacology
Authors: Xu Xiaoxi , Kumari Rajendra , Zhou Jun , Chen Jing , Mao Binchen , Wang Jingjing , Zheng Meiling , Tu Xiaolong , An Xiaoyu , Chen Xiaobo , Zhang Likun , Tian Xiaoli , Wang Haojie , Dong Xin , Bao Zhengzheng , Guo Sheng , Ouyang Xuesong , Shang Limei , Wang Fei , Yan Xuefei , Zhang Rui , Vries Robert G. J. , Clevers Hans , Li Qi-Xiang
Published: January 2023

Patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX)/organoid (PDO), driven by cancer stem cells (CSC), are considered the most predictive models for translational oncology. Large PDX collections reflective of patient populations have been created and used extensively to test various investigational therapies, including population-trials as surrogate subjects in vivo. PDOs are recognized as in vitro surrogates for patients amenable for high-throughput screening (HTS). We have built a biobank of carcinoma PDX-derived organoids (PDXOs) by converting an existing PDX library and confirmed high degree of similarities between PDXOs and parental PDXs in genomics, histopathology and pharmacology, suggesting “biological equivalence or interchangeability” between the two. Here we demonstrate the applications of PDXO biobank for HTS “matrix” screening for both lead compounds and indications, immune cell co-cultures for immune-therapies and engineering enables in vitro/in vivo imaging. This large biobank of >550 matched pairs of PDXs/PDXOs across different cancers could become powerful tools for the future cancer drug discovery.
Multi-dimensional resilience: A quantitative exploration of disease outcomes and economic, political, and social resilience to the COVID-19 pandemic in six countries
Authors: Beesley Lauren J. , Patelli Paolo , Kaufeld Kimberly , Schwenk Jon , Martinez Kaitlyn M. , Pitts Travis , Barnard Martha , McMahon Ben , Del Valle Sara Y.
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted a need for better understanding of countries’ vulnerability and resilience to not only pandemics but also disasters, climate change, and other systemic shocks. A comprehensive characterization of vulnerability can inform efforts to improve infrastructure and guide disaster response in the future. In this paper, we propose a data-driven framework for studying countries’ vulnerability and resilience to incident disasters across multiple dimensions of society. To illustrate this methodology, we leverage the rich data landscape surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic to characterize observed resilience for several countries (USA, Brazil, India, Sweden, New Zealand, and Israel) as measured by pandemic impacts across a variety of social, economic, and political domains. We also assess how observed responses and outcomes (i.e., resilience) of the COVID-19 pandemic are associated with pre-pandemic characteristics or vulnerabilities, including (1) prior risk for adverse pandemic outcomes due to population density and age and (2) the systems in place prior to the pandemic that may impact the ability to respond to the crisis, including health infrastructure and economic capacity. Our work demonstrates the importance of viewing vulnerability and resilience in a multi-dimensional way, where a country’s resources and outcomes related to vulnerability and resilience can differ dramatically across economic, political, and social domains. This work also highlights key gaps in our current understanding about vulnerability and resilience and a need for data-driven, context-specific assessments of disaster vulnerability in the future.
Impact of anemia on acute ischemic stroke outcomes: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Desai Ansh , Oh David , Rao Elizabeth M. , Sahoo Saswat , Mahajan Uma V. , Labak Collin M. , Mauria Rohit , Shah Varun S. , Nguyen Quang , Herring Eric Z. , Elder Theresa , Stout Amber , Shammassian Berje H.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Anemia has been reported in nearly 40% of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients and is linked to significant morbidity and disability. The presence of anemia is associated with worse outcomes in AIS, specifically in the presence of large vessel occlusion (LVO). An optimal hemoglobin (Hb) target specific to this pathology has not yet been established. The goal of this review is to systematically review literature that observes the association that exists between AIS outcomes and hemoglobin (Hb) levels.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in accordance with guidelines for the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to identify studies from 2008–2022. The following inclusion and exclusion criteria were used: studies of adult patients with AIS; must describe outcomes with regard to Hb levels in AIS (not limited to LVO); must be written in English. The clinical variables extracted included Length of Stay (LOS), modified rankin score (mRS), Hb levels, and mortality.

Results

A total of 1,154 studies were gathered, with 116 undergoing full text review. 31 studies were included in this review. The age of patients ranged from 61.4 to 77.8. The presence of anemia in AIS increased LOS by 1.7 days on average and these patients also have a 15.2% higher rate of mortality at one year, on average.

Discussion

This data suggests that the contemporary thresholds for treating anemia in AIS patients may be inadequate because anemia is strongly associated with poor outcomes (e.g., mRS>2 or mortality) and increased LOS in AIS patients. The current generalized Hb threshold for transfusion (7 g/dL) is also used in AIS patients, however, a more aggressive transfusion parameter should be further explored based on these findings. Further studies are required to confirm these findings and to determine if a more liberal RBCT threshold will result in clinical benefits.
A qualitative process evaluation within a clinical trial that used healthcare technologies for children with asthma–insights and implications
Authors: Lawrie Louisa , Turner Stephen , Cotton Seonaidh C. , Wood Jessica , Morgan Heather M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Healthcare technologies are becoming more commonplace, however clinical and patient perspectives regarding the use of technology in the management of childhood asthma have yet to be investigated. Within a clinical trial of asthma management in children, we conducted a qualitative process evaluation that provided insights into the experiences and perspectives of healthcare staff and families on (i) the use of smart inhalers to monitor medication adherence and (ii) the use of algorithm generated treatment recommendations.

Methods

We interviewed trial staff (n = 15) and families (n = 6) who were involved in the trial to gauge perspectives around the use of smart inhalers to monitor adherence and the algorithm to guide clinical decision making.

Findings

Staff and families indicated that there were technical issues associated with the smart inhalers. While staff suggested that the smart inhalers were good for monitoring adherence and enabling communication regarding medication use, parents and children indicated that smart inhaler use increased motivation to adhere to medication and provided the patient (child) with a sense of responsibility for the management of their asthma. Staff were open-minded about the use of the algorithm to guide treatment recommendations, but some were not familiar with its’ use in clinical care. There were some concerns expressed regarding treatment step-down decisions generated by the algorithm, and some staff highlighted the importance of using clinical judgement. Families perceived the algorithm to be a useful technology, but indicated that they felt comforted by the clinicians’ own judgements.

Conclusion

The use of technology and individual data within appointments was considered useful to both staff and families: closer monitoring and the educational impacts were especially highlighted. Utilising an algorithm was broadly acceptable, with caveats around clinicians using the recommendations as a guide only and wariness around extreme step-ups/downs considering contextual factors not taken into account.
Consequences of anterior knee pain after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A 2015–2020 cohort study
Authors: Chantrelle Marie , Menu Pierre , Crenn Vincent , Grondin Jérôme , Daley Pauline , Louguet Bastien , Fouasson-Chailloux Alban , Dauty Marc
Published: January 2023

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring tendon (HT) graft aims to stabilise the knee, but it may bring some complications like anterior knee (AKP) pain that can have consequences on the functional aspect of this surgery. The aim of this study was to compare isokinetic knee strength and functional outcomes between patients with and without AKP following an ACLR using HT graft during the first-year post-surgery. Three hundred and thirty subjects operated by ACLR using hamstring tendon graft were included in our retrospective cohort and divided into two groups: a group with AKP (AKP+ group) and one without AKP (AKP–group). In our population, 14.8% of the patients had AKP. At 4 post-operative months, subjects with pain had lower isokinetic strength limb symmetry index (LSI) for knee flexors and extensors, and a lower Lysholm score than subjects without pain (p < 0.0001). These differences did not persist at 7 post-operative months, and there was no difference in the one-leg hop test. After multivariate analysis, we highlighted the impact of time on the evolution of these parameters. Yet, the exact definition of AKP after ACLR remains to be clearly defined since an imprecise diagnosis may lead to inappropriate management. Pre-operative information about this type of complication, which evolves favourably with time, could be useful for patients. Indeed, AKP can occur after ACLR, even if a HT graft has been used, compared to other surgical procedures using the knee extensor apparatus as patellar tendon graft (AKP is associated with the donor site morbidity). In case of AKP after ACLR, monitoring the muscle inhibition by isokinetic tests may enable clinicians to adapt the retraining and the return to sport.
Nuclear accumulation of host transcripts during Zika Virus Infection
Authors: Leon Kristoffer E. , Khalid Mir M. , Flynn Ryan A. , Fontaine Krystal A. , Nguyen Thong T. , Kumar G. Renuka , Simoneau Camille R. , Tomar Sakshi , Jimenez-Morales David , Dunlap Mariah , Kaye Julia , Shah Priya S. , Finkbeiner Steven , Krogan Nevan J. , Bertozzi Carolyn , Carette Jan E. , Ott Melanie
Published: January 2023

Zika virus (ZIKV) infects fetal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) causing severe neurodevelopmental disordersin utero. Multiple pathways involved in normal brain development are dysfunctional in infected NPCs but how ZIKV centrally reprograms these pathways remains unknown. Here we show that ZIKV infection disrupts subcellular partitioning of host transcripts critical for neurodevelopment in NPCs and functionally link this process to the up-frameshift protein 1 (UPF1). UPF1 is an RNA-binding protein known to regulate decay of cellular and viral RNAs and is less expressed in ZIKV-infected cells. Using infrared crosslinking immunoprecipitation and RNA sequencing (irCLIP-Seq), we show that a subset of mRNAs loses UPF1 binding in ZIKV-infected NPCs, consistent with UPF1’s diminished expression. UPF1 target transcripts, however, are not altered in abundance but in subcellular localization, with mRNAs accumulating in the nucleus of infected or UPF1 knockdown cells. This leads to diminished protein expression of FREM2, a protein required for maintenance of NPC identity. Our results newly link UPF1 to the regulation of mRNA transport in NPCs, a process perturbed during ZIKV infection.