bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to design an art-science program? Self-reported benefits for artists and scientists in the VI4 artist-in-residence program
Authors: Cuevas Skylar , Liu Qi (Kathy) , Qian Helen , Joffe Max E. , Calvitti Karisa , Schladt Megan , Skaar Eric P. , Oliver Kendra H.
Published: December 2022

While many new programs bridge the arts and sciences, a data-based examination of art-science program design can lead to more efficient programming. The Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation Artist-in-Residence program is a virtual program that brings together undergraduate student “artists” and faculty-level “scientists” to generate science-art content. We have recruited over 80 artists and 50 scientists to collaborate in creating visual science communication content. Using self-reported data from both groups, we performed qualitative and quantitative analyses to define sources for negative and positive experiences for artists and scientists. We also identify areas for improvement and key features for in producing a positive experience. We found that artists participants had more positive responses about “learning something new” from the program than scientists. We also found that for both artists and scientists the length of the program and the virtual nature were identified as key features that could be improved. However, the most surprising aspect of our analysis suggests that for both “way of thinking” and “science communication to the public or general audience,” were seen as significant beneficial gains for scientists compared to artists. We conclude this analysis with suggestions to enhance the benefits and outcomes of an art-science program and ways to minimize the difficulties, such as communication and collaboration, faced by participants and program designers.
Post-COVID depression and its multiple factors, does Favipiravir have a protective effect? A longitudinal study of indonesia COVID-19 patients
Authors: Herman Bumi , Bruni Andrea , Zain Ekachaeryanti , Dzulhadj Azhar , Oo Aye Chan ,   Viwattanakulvanid
Published: December 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) not only has a long-term effect on its survivors, it also affects their quality of life, including inducing depression as a possible manifestation of central nervous system disruption. Favipiravir shows promising efficacy as an antiviral drug for the treatment of COVID-19. However, its effect on the sequelae of COVID-19 has not been explored. Therefore, this study aims to assess the impact of Favipiravir and address the factors associated with post-COVID depression in Indonesia.

Method

This cohort study conducted a post-COVID-19 survey on Indonesian patients who were diagnosed by using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and antigen tests until January 2022. An online questionnaire was distributed to obtain information on demographics, comorbidities, health behavior, symptoms, and treatment. The propensity technique was used to allocate the participants into the favipiravir and nonrecipient groups (1:1). The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used for outcome measurement. The cohort was followed up biweekly for 60 days after onset/diagnosis to determine the occurrence of depression. Cox regression analysis with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval was used to estimate the effect of favipiravir on post-COVID-19 depression.

Results

The data included the information of 712 participants, of whom 18.54% had depression within 60 days after onset/diagnosis. Depression was higher in the nonrecipient group (21.06%) than in the favipiravir group (16.01%). After adjustment by other factors, favipiravir prescription was found to be associated with depression (aOR 0.488, 95% CI 0.339–0.701 p < 0.001). In accordance with the PHQ-9 subset, favipiravir exerted a significant protective effect against depressive mood and loss of interest. However, patients living alone were prone to experiencing loss of interest (aOR 2.253, 95% CI 1.329–3.818, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

The data obtained in this preliminary survey suggested that favipiravir may be useful for preventing post-COVID depression. However, further study is needed. Moreover, the provision of mental health support, particularly to those who live alone, must be ensured.

Trial registration

RegistryNCT05060562.
One-year cardiovascular outcomes after coronavirus disease 2019: The cardiovascular COVID-19 registry
Authors: Ortega-Paz Luis , Arévalos Victor , Fernández-Rodríguez Diego , Jiménez-Díaz Víctor , Bañeras Jordi , Campo Gianluca , Rodríguez-Santamarta Miguel , Díaz José Francisco , Scardino Claudia , Gómez-Álvarez Zaira , Pernigotti Alberto , Alfonso Fernando , Amat-Santos Ignacio J. , Silvestro Antonio , Rampa Lorenzo , de la Torre Hernández José M. , Bastidas Gabriela , Gómez-Lara Josep , Bikdeli Behnood , García-García Hector M. , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Rodés-Cabau Josep , Sabaté Manel , Brugaletta Salvatore ,   on behalf of the CV COVID-19 registry investigators
Published: December 2022

Background

The long-term cardiovascular (CV) outcomes of COVID-19 have not been fully explored.

Methods

This was an international, multicenter, retrospective cohort study conducted between February and December 2020. Consecutive patients ≥18 years who underwent a real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for SARS-CoV2 were included. Patients were classified into two cohorts depending on the nasopharyngeal swab result and clinical status: confirmed COVID-19 (positive RT-PCR) and control (without suggestive symptoms and negative RT-PCR). Data were obtained from electronic records, and clinical follow-up was performed at 1-year. The primary outcome was CV death at 1-year. Secondary outcomes included arterial thrombotic events (ATE), venous thromboembolism (VTE), and serious cardiac arrhythmias. An independent clinical event committee adjudicated events. A Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for all baseline characteristics was used for comparing outcomes between groups. A prespecified landmark analysis was performed to assess events during the post-acute phase (31–365 days).

Results

A total of 4,427 patients were included: 3,578 (80.8%) in the COVID-19 and 849 (19.2%) control cohorts. At one year, there were no significant differences in the primary endpoint of CV death between the COVID-19 and control cohorts (1.4% vs. 0.8%; HRadj 1.28 [0.56–2.91]; p = 0.555), but there was a higher risk of all-cause death (17.8% vs. 4.0%; HRadj 2.82 [1.99–4.0]; p = 0.001). COVID-19 cohort had higher rates of ATE (2.5% vs. 0.8%, HRadj 2.26 [1.02–4.99]; p = 0.044), VTE (3.7% vs. 0.4%, HRadj 9.33 [2.93–29.70]; p = 0.001), and serious cardiac arrhythmias (2.5% vs. 0.6%, HRadj 3.37 [1.35–8.46]; p = 0.010). During the post-acute phase, there were no significant differences in CV death (0.6% vs. 0.7%; HRadj 0.67 [0.25–1.80]; p = 0.425), but there was a higher risk of deep vein thrombosis (0.6% vs. 0.0%; p = 0.028). Re-hospitalization rate was lower in the COVID-19 cohort compared to the control cohort (13.9% vs. 20.6%; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

At 1-year, patients with COVID-19 experienced an increased risk of all-cause death and adverse CV events, including ATE, VTE, and serious cardiac arrhythmias, but not CV death.

Study registration

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT04359927.
Perspectives on the origin of language: Infants vocalize most during independent vocal play but produce their most speech-like vocalizations during turn taking
Authors: Long Helen L. , Ramsay Gordon , Griebel Ulrike , Bene Edina R. , Bowman Dale D. , Burkhardt-Reed Megan M. , Oller D. Kimbrough
Published: December 2022

A growing body of research emphasizes both endogenous and social motivations in human vocal development. Our own efforts seek to establish an evolutionary and developmental perspective on the existence and usage of speech-like vocalizations (“protophones”) in the first year of life. We evaluated the relative occurrence of protophones in 40 typically developing infants across the second-half year based on longitudinal all-day recordings. Infants showed strong endogenous motivation to vocalize, producing vastly more protophones during independent vocal exploration and play than during vocal turn taking. Both periods of vocal play and periods of turn-taking corresponded to elevated levels of the most advanced protophones (canonical babbling) relative to periods without vocal play or without turn-taking. Notably, periods of turn taking showed even more canonical babbling than periods of vocal play. We conclude that endogenous motivation drives infants’ tendencies to explore and display a great number of speech-like vocalizations, but that social interaction drives the production of the most speech-like forms. The results inform our previously published proposal that the human infant has been naturally selected to explore protophone production and that the exploratory inclination in our hominin ancestors formed a foundation for language.
Time-use movement behaviors are associated with scores of depression/anxiety among adolescents: A compositional data analysis
Authors: de Faria Fernanda Rocha , Barbosa Djalma , Howe Cheryl Anne , Canabrava Karina Lúcia Ribeiro , Sasaki Jeffer Eidi , dos Santos Amorim Paulo Roberto
Published: December 2022

Movement behaviors have been associated with mental health. The purposes of this study were to examine the association between movement behaviors and scores of depression/anxiety among adolescents and to determine the difference in depression/anxiety associated with reallocating time between different movement behaviors. This cross-sectional study included 217 Brazilian adolescents (15 to 18 years old, 49.3% female). Adolescents wore an accelerometer for one week to assess the four-movement behaviors which include sleep, sedentary behavior (SB), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). The depression/anxiety score was calculated by factor analysis using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire. Compositional data analyses were used to examine the association between movement behavior and the depression/anxiety score. Compositional isotemporal substitution models estimated the change in depression/anxiety score associated with reallocating 10, 30, and 60 min between movement behaviors. The composition of movement behaviors was significantly associated with depression/anxiety scores (p< 0.05). Replacing time from SB to LPA was associated with improvement in the depression/anxiety score, while the inverse was associated with an increase in this score. Replacing time of LPA with MVPA was associated with worsening in the depression/anxiety score. The 24-h time distribution of the day may play a crucial role in mental health. Compositions with more time spent in LPA at the expense of less SB are associated with improvement in the scores of depression/anxiety. The type of MVPA may moderate its effects on depression/anxiety in adolescents. Holistic interventions including the full range of movement behaviors may be a gateway to reduce the levels of depression/anxiety in adolescence.
Green credit and market expansion strategy of high pollution enterprises—Evidence from China
Authors: Zhong Qian , Ding Xuemeng , Sun Xiaoke , Zhao Hairui
Published: December 2022

This paper uses the Difference-in-Differences method to test the impact of the promulgation of Green Credit Guidelines, a market-oriented environmental regulation, on the enterprise market expansion strategy, based on the panel data of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2008 to 2015. We find that the promulgation of Green Credit Guidelines significantly inhibited the market expansion strategy of high pollution enterprises. Two channels through which the Green Credit Guidelines affect the market expansion strategies of high polluters are increasing the cost of financing and promoting green R&D. Heterogeneity analysis finds that the impact of Green Credit Guidelines on the market expansion of highly polluting enterprises is more significant in non-state-owned enterprises and enterprises without equity incentive. Further analysis shows that the promulgation of Green Credit Guidelines damages the corporate image and profitability of high polluting enterprises, but it doesn’t increase the risk of high polluting enterprises. The results of this research could help relevant government departments to formulate practical environmental regulations and promote sustainable economic development.
Optimal control of TGF-β to prevent formation of pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Bahram Yazdroudi Fateme , Malek Alaeddin
Published: December 2022

In this paper, three optimal control problems are proposed to prevent forming lung fibrosis while control is transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in the myofibroblast diffusion process. Two diffusion equations for fibroblast and myofibroblast are mathematically formulated as the system’s dynamic, while different optimal control model problems are proposed to find the optimal TGF-β. During solving the first optimal control problem with the regulator objection function, it is understood that the control function gets unexpected negative values. Thus, in the second optimal control problem, for the control function, the non-negative constraint is imposed. This problem is solved successfully using the extended canonical Hamiltonian equations with no flux boundary conditions. Pontryagin’s minimum principle is used to solve the related optimal control problems successfully. In the third optimal control problem, the fibroblast equation is added to a dynamic system consisting of the partial differential equation. The two-dimensional diffusion equations for fibroblast and myofibroblast are transferred to a system of ordinary differential equations using the central finite differences explicit method. Three theorems and two propositions are proved using extended Pontryagin’s minimum principle and the extended Hamiltonian equations. Numerical results are given. We believe that this optimal strategy can help practitioners apply some medication to reduce the TGF-β in preventing the formation of pulmonary fibrosis.
Modeling the ribosome as a bipartite graph
Authors: Calvet Laurie E.
Published: December 2022

Developing mathematical representations of biological systems that can allow predictions is a challenging and important research goal. It is demonstrated here how the ribosome, the nano-machine responsible for synthesizing all proteins necessary for cellular life, can be represented as a bipartite network. Ten ribosomal structures from Bacteria and six from Eukarya are explored. Ribosomal networks are found to exhibit unique properties despite variations in the nodes and edges of the different graphs. The ribosome is shown to exhibit very large topological redundancies, demonstrating mathematical resiliency. These results can potentially explain how it can function consistently despite changes in composition and connectivity. Furthermore, this representation can be used to analyze ribosome function within the large machinery of network theory, where the degrees of freedom are the possible interactions, and can be used to provide new insights for translation regulation and therapeutics.
Measures of malaria transmission, infection, and disease in an area bordering two districts with and without sustained indoor residual spraying of insecticide in Uganda
Authors: Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Bousema Teun , Blanken Sara Lynn , Rek John , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Greenhouse Bryan , Rosenthal Philip J. , Kamya Moses R. , Staedke Sarah G. , Dorsey Grant
Published: December 2022

Tororo District, in Eastern Uganda, experienced a dramatic decline in malaria burden starting in 2014 following the implementation of indoor residual spraying of insecticide (IRS) in the setting of repeated long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLINs) distribution campaigns. However, in 2020 malaria began to resurge in Tororo following a change in the active ingredient used for IRS. In this study, epidemiological measures of malaria were compared shortly after the resurgence between two parishes in Tororo District (Kayoro and Osukuru) and one contiguous parish in Busia District (Buteba), where IRS has never been implemented. A cohort of 483 residents from 80 randomly selected households were followed from August 2020 to January 2021. Mosquitoes were collected every 2 weeks using CDC light traps in rooms where participants slept; parasitemia and gametoctyemia measured every 4 weeks by microscopy and PCR; and symptomatic malaria measured by passive surveillance. The annual entomological inoculation rate was significantly higher in Buteba (108.2 infective bites/person/year), compared to Osukuru (59.0, p = 0.001) and Kayoro (27.4, p<0.001). Overall, parasite prevalence was 19.5% by microscopy and 50.7% by PCR, with no significant differences between the three parishes. Among infected individuals, gametocyte prevalence by PCR was 45.5% and similar between sites. The incidence of malaria was significantly higher in Osukuru (2.46 episodes PPY) compared to Buteba (1.47, p = 0.005) and Kayoro (1.09, p<0.001). For participants over 15 years of age, the risk of symptomatic malaria if microscopic parasitemia was present was higher in Osukuru (relative risk [RR] = 2.99, p = 0.03) compared to Buteba. These findings highlight the complex relationships between measures of malaria transmission, infection, and disease, and the potential for excess disease burden, possibly due to waning immunity, in areas where vector control interventions begin to fail after a sustained period of highly effective control.
Exploring engagement with a web-based dietary intervention for adults with type 2 diabetes: A mixed methods evaluation of the T2Diet study
Authors: Dening Jedha , Zacharia Karly , Ball Kylie , George Elena S. , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful
Published: December 2022

Background

Improved understanding of participant engagement in web-based dietary interventions is needed. Engagement is a complex construct that may be best explored through mixed methods to gain comprehensive insight. To our knowledge, no web-based dietary intervention in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) has previously used a mixed methods approach. The aim of this study was to explore factors that may contribute to effective engagement in a web-based dietary program for people with T2D.

Methods

This study employed a mixed methods intervention design, with a convergent design embedded for post-intervention evaluation. The convergent design collected and analyzed quantitative and qualitative data independent of each other, with the two datasets merged/compared during results/interpretation. Quantitative data collected from intervention group participants (n = 40) were self-administered questionnaires and usage data with average values summarized. Qualitative data were participant semi-structured interviews (n = 15) incorporating a deductive-inductive thematic analysis approach.

Results

The results from the quantitative and qualitative data indicated positive overall engagement with the web-based dietary program. Factors that contributed to effective engagement were sustained frequency and intensity of engagement; structured weekly program delivery; participants affective engagement prior to and during the intervention, with positive affective states enhancing cognitive and behavioral engagement; and participants experience of value and reward. In addition, the user-centered development process employed prior to intervention delivery played an important role in facilitating positive engagement outcomes.

Conclusion

This study yielded novel findings by integrating qualitative and quantitative data to explore engagement with a web-based dietary program involving people with T2D. Effective engagement occurred in this intervention through a combination of factors related to usage and participants’ affective, cognitive and behavioral states. The engagement outcomes that emerged will be useful to current and future researchers using digital technologies to deliver lifestyle interventions for T2D or other chronic health conditions.
Protective effects of physical activity on mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Koziel Ly Nikita K. , Mohamud Ladan , Villeneuve Paul J. , Matheson Kimberly , Anisman Hymie , Chee Melissa J.
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has been linked with increased reports of depression, anxiety, and stress. Stay-at-home directives during the pandemic-imposed lifestyle changes, including eating and sedentary behaviors that can further undermine mental health outcomes. Physical activity is a vital component for metabolic health, as well as for mental health by serving as an active coping strategy to manage stress and promote resilience. Global reports of increased sedentary leisure behaviors have been associated with feelings of depression and anxiety, but it unclear whether the relationship between physical activity and depression or anxiety persists over time. In this longitudinal study, we investigated (i) whether physical activity at the onset of the pandemic was related to feelings of depression or anxiety over time and (ii) whether this relationship was mediated by stress appraisals during the pandemic. We surveyed 319 adults living in Canada or the United States to assess physical activity, stress appraisals, and mental health outcomes at two time points over a 6-month period. We found a reduction in leisure-time physical activity that was linked to subsequent feelings of depression. Furthermore, individuals with lower levels of physical activity were more likely to appraise their COVID-19 situation to be uncontrollable at pandemic onset and as the pandemic continued. Stress appraisals of threat and uncontrollability were also positively related to feelings of depression. Modelling these three factors together showed that appraising a situation as uncontrollable mediated the relationship between initial physical activity and subsequent depressive feelings. Although correlational, these data highlight the protective role of leisure-time physical activity against worsened mental health outcomes during periods of prolonged stress.
Social isolation and psychological distress among southern U.S. college students in the era of COVID-19
Authors: Giovenco Danielle , Shook-Sa Bonnie E. , Hutson Bryant , Buchanan Laurie , Fisher Edwin B. , Pettifor Audrey
Published: December 2022

Background

College students are at heightened risk for negative psychological outcomes due to COVID-19. We examined the prevalence of psychological distress and its association with social isolation among public university students in the southern United States.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was emailed to all University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill students in June 2020 and was open for two weeks. Students self-reported if they were self-isolating none, some, most, or all of the time. Validated screening instruments were used to assess clinically significant symptoms of depression, loneliness, and increased perceived stress. The data was weighted to the complete student population.

Results

7,012 completed surveys were included. Almost two-thirds (64%) of the students reported clinically significant depressive symptoms and 65% were categorized as lonely. An estimated 64% of students reported self-isolating most or all of the time. Compared to those self-isolating none of the time, students self-isolating some of the time were 1.78 (95% CI 1.37, 2.30) times as likely to report clinically significant depressive symptoms, and students self-isolating most or all of the time were 2.12 (95% CI 1.64, 2.74) and 2.27 (95% CI 1.75, 2.94) times as likely to report clinically significant depressive symptoms, respectively. Similar associations between self-isolation and loneliness and perceived stress were observed.

Conclusions

The prevalence of adverse mental health indicators among this sample of university students in June 2020 was exceptionally high. University responses to the COVID-19 pandemic should prioritize student mental health and prepare a range of support services to mitigate mental health consequences as the pandemic continues to evolve.
Mechanical strain induces ex vivo expansion of periosteum
Authors: Walker Mary M. , Baumann Molly E. , Alexander John H. , Blackstone Britani N. , Morgan Christopher B. , Scharschmidt Thomas J. , Powell Heather M.
Published: December 2022

Segmental bone defects present complex clinical challenges. Nonunion, malunion, and infection are common sequalae of autogenous bone grafts, allografts, and synthetic bone implants due to poor incorporation with the patient’s bone. The current project explores the osteogenic properties of periosteum to facilitate graft incorporation. As tissue area is a natural limitation of autografting, mechanical strain was implemented to expand the periosteum. Freshly harvested, porcine periosteum was strained at 5 and 10% per day for 10 days with non-strained and free-floating samples serving as controls. Total tissue size, viability and histologic examination revealed that strain increased area to a maximum of 1.6-fold in the 10% daily strain. No change in tissue anatomy or viability via MTT or Ki67 staining and quantification was observed among groups. The osteogenic potential of the mechanical expanded periosteum was then examinedin vivo. Human cancellous allografts were wrapped with 10% per day strained, fresh, free-floating, or no porcine periosteum and implanted subcutaneously into female, athymic mice. Tissue was collected at 8- and 16-weeks. Gene expression analysis revealed a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin in the fresh periosteum group at 8-weeks post implantation compared to all other groups. Values among all groups were similar at week 16. Additionally, histological assessment with H&E and Masson-Goldner Trichrome staining showed that all periosteal groups outperformed the non-periosteal allograft, with fresh periosteum demonstrating the highest levels of new tissue mineralization at the periosteum-bone interface. Overall, mechanical expansion of the periosteum can provide increased area for segmental healing via autograft strategies, though further studies are needed to explore culture methodology to optimize osteogenic potential.
Use of health care services among people with Covid-19 symptoms in the first pandemic peak in France
Authors: Pousson Jeanna-Eve , Silberzan Léna , Jusot Florence , Meyer Laurence , Warszawski Josiane , Bajos Nathalie ,   on behalf of the EpiCoV study group
Published: December 2022

In France, the first pandemic peak fell disproportionately on the most disadvantaged, as they were overrepresented in contaminations and in developing severe forms of the virus. At that time, and especially during lockdown, the French healthcare system was severely disrupted and limited. The issue of social differences in the use of healthcare by people experiencing symptoms of Covid-19 arose. Based on a random sample of 135,000 persons, we selected respondents who reported Covid-19-like symptoms (cough, fever, dyspnea, anosmia and/or ageusia) during the first lockdown (n = 12,422). The aim of this study was to determine if the use of health care services was likely to contribute to widen Covid-19 social inequalities. Use of health care services was classified in three categories: (1) no consultation, (2) out-of-hospital consultation(s) and (3) in-hospital consultation(s). We estimated odds ratio of utilization of health care using multinomial regressions, adjusted on social factors (age, gender, class, ethno-racial status, social class, standard of living and education), contextual variables, health variables, and symptoms characteristics. Altogether, 37.8% of the individuals consulted a doctor for their symptoms; 32.1% outside hospital and 5.7% in hospital. Use of health care services was strongly associated with social position2: the most disadvantaged social groups and racially minoritized immigrants were more likely to use health care, particularly for in-hospital consultation(s). The highest utilization of health care were found among older adults (OR 9.51, 95%CI 5.02–18.0 compared to the youngest age group), the racially minoritized first-generation immigrants (OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.09–2.36 compared to the mainstream population), the poorest (OR 1.31, 95%CI 1.00–1.72) and the least educated (OR 2.20, 95%CI 1.44–3.38). To conclude, we found that the use of health care services counteracted the potential impact of social inequalities in exposure and infection to the Covid-19.
COVID-19 vaccine knowledge, attitudes, and experiences of health care workers in Perth, Western Australia: A qualitative study
Authors: Carlson Samantha J. , Tomkinson Sian , Blyth Christopher C. , Attwell Katie
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Health care workers (HCWs) faced an increased risk of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout commenced in February 2021 to priority groups, including HCWs. Given their increased risk, as well as influence on patients’ vaccine uptake, it was important that HCWs had a positive COVID-19 vaccination experience, as well as trusting the vaccine safety and efficacy data.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 19 public- and privately-practicing HCWs in Western Australia between February-July 2021. Data were deductively analysed using NVivo 12 and guided by the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour model.

Results

15/19 participants had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine. Participants were highly motivated, mostly to protect themselves and to get back to “normal”, but also to protect patients. Many had a heightened awareness of COVID-19 severity due hearing from colleagues working in settings more impacted than Western Australia. Participants trusted the COVID-19 vaccine development and approval process; their histories of having to accept vaccines for work helped them to see COVID-19 vaccination as no different. Many recalled initially being unsure of how and when they’d be able to access the vaccine. Once they had this knowledge, half had difficulties with the booking process, and some were unable to access a clinic at a convenient location or time. Participants learnt about COVID-19 vaccination through government resources, health organisations, and their workplace, but few had seen any government campaigns for the wider public. Finally, most had discussed COVID-19 vaccination with their social network.

Conclusion

HCWs in Western Australia demonstrated good knowledge about COVID-19 vaccination, with many reasons to vaccinate themselves and support the vaccination of others. Addressing the barriers identified in this study will be important for planning to vaccinate health workforces during future pandemics.
Variations in psychological disorders, suicidality, and help-seeking behaviour among college students from different academic disciplines
Authors: McLafferty Margaret , Brown Natasha , Brady John , McLaughlin Jonathon , McHugh Rachel , Ward Caoimhe , McBride Louise , Bjourson Anthony J. , O’Neill Siobhan M. , Walsh Colum P. , Murray Elaine K.
Published: December 2022

Background

Elevated levels of suicidality, ADHD, mental ill-health and substance disorders are reported among college students globally, yet few receive treatment. Some faculties and courses appear to have more at-risk students than others. The current study aimed to determine if students commencing college in different academic disciplines were at a heightened risk for psychopathology, substance use disorders and suicidal behaviour, and examined variations in help-seeking behaviour.

Materials and methods

The study utilised data collected from 1,829 first-year undergraduate students as part of the Student Psychological Intervention Trial (SPIT) which commenced in September 2019 across four Ulster University campuses in Northern Ireland and an Institute of Technology, in the North-West of Ireland. The SPIT study is part of the World Mental Health International College Student Initiative (WMH-ICS) which uses the WMH-CIDI to identify 12-month and lifetime disorders.

Results

Students from Life and Health Sciences reported the lowest rates of a range of psychological problems in the year prior to commencing college, while participants studying Arts and Humanities displayed the highest levels (e.g. depression 20.6%; social anxiety 38.8%). However, within faculty variations were found. For example, psychology students reported high rates, while nursing students reported low rates. Variations in help seeking behaviour were also revealed, with male students less likely to seek help.

Conclusions

Detecting specific cohorts at risk of psychological disorders and suicidality is challenging. This study revealed that some academic disciplines have more vulnerable students than others, with many reluctant to seek help for their problems. It is important for educators to be aware of such issues and for colleges to provide information and support to students at risk. Tailored interventions and prevention strategies may be beneficial to address the needs of students from different disciplines.
The cross-sectional association of stressful life events with depression severity among patients with hypertension and diabetes in Malawi
Authors: Landrum Kelsey R. , Pence Brian W. , Gaynes Bradley N. , Dussault Josée M. , Hosseinipour Mina C. , Kulisewa Kazione , Malava Jullita Kenela , Masiye Jones , Akello Harriet , Udedi Michael , Zimba Chifundo C.
Published: December 2022

Depressive disorders are a leading cause of global morbidity and remain disproportionately high in low- and middle-income settings. Stressful life events (SLEs) are known risk factors for depressive episodes and worsened depressive severity, yet are under-researched in comparison to other depression risk factors. As depression is often comorbid with hypertension, diabetes, and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), research into this relationship among patients with NCDs is particularly relevant to increasing opportunities for integrated depression and NCD care. This study aims to estimate the cross-sectional association between SLEs in the three months preceding baseline interviews and baseline depressive severity among patients with at least mild depressive symptoms who are seeking NCD care at 10 NCD clinics across Malawi. SLEs were measured by the Life Events Survey and depressive severity (mild vs. moderate to severe) was measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. The study population (n = 708) was predominately currently employed, grand multiparous (5–8 children) women with a primary education level. Two thirds (63%) had mild depression while 26%, 8%, and 3% had moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression, respectively. Nearly all participants (94%) reported at least one recent SLE, with the most common reported SLEs being financial stress (48%), relationship changes (45%), death of a family member or friend (41%), or serious illness of a family member or friend (39%). Divorce/separation, estrangement from a family member, losing source of income, and major new health problems were significant predictors of greater (moderate or severe) depressive severity compared to mild severity. Having a major new health problem or experiencing divorce/separation resulted in particularly high risk of more severe depression. After adjustment, each additional SLE was associated with a 9% increased risk of moderate or worse depressive severity compared to mild depressive severity (RR: 1.09; (95% CI: 1.05, 1.13), p<0.0001). Among patients with NCDs with at least mild depressive symptoms, SLEs in the prior 3 months were associated with greater depressive severity. While many SLEs may not be preventable, this research suggests that assessment of SLEs and teaching of positive coping strategies when experiencing SLEs may play an important role in integrated NCD and depression treatment models.
Associations between maternal plasma zinc concentrations in late pregnancy and LINE-1 and Alu methylation loci in the young adult offspring
Authors: Rerkasem Amaraporn , Nantakool Sothida , Wilson Brooke C. , Mangklabruks Ampica , Boonyapranai Kongsak , Mutirangura Apiwat , Derraik José G. B. , Rerkasem Kittipan
Published: December 2022

Background

In animal models, prenatal zinc deficiency induced epigenetic changes in the fetus, but data in humans are lacking. We aimed to examine associations between maternal zinc levels during pregnancy and DNA methylation in LINE-1 and Alu repetitive sequences in young adult offspring, as well as anthropometry and cardiometabolic parameters.

Methods

Participants were 74 pregnant women from the Chiang Mai Low Birth Weight cohort, and their offspring followed up at 20 years of age. Maternal plasma zinc concentrations were measured at approximately 36 weeks of gestation. DNA methylation levels in LINE-1 and Alu repetitive sequences were measured in the offspring, as well as anthropometry and cardiometabolic parameters (lipid profile, blood pressure, and glucose metabolism).

Results

Over half of mothers (39/74; 53%) were zinc deficient (<50 μg/dL) during their third trimester of pregnancy. Maternal zinc concentrations during pregnancy were associated with LINE-1 DNA methylation levels in adult offspring. Specifically, lower prenatal zinc concentrations were associated with: 1) lower levels of total LINE-1 methylation; 2) lower levels of LINE-1 hypermethylation loci; and 3) higher levels of LINE-1 partial methylation loci. Prenatal zinc concentrations were not associated with Alu methylation levels, nor with any anthropometric or cardiometabolic parameters in adult offspring. However, we observed associations between Alu and LINE-1 methylation patterns and cardiometabolic outcomes in offspring, namely total cholesterol levels and diastolic blood pressure, respectively.

Conclusions

Lower maternal zinc concentrations late in gestation were associated with changes in DNA methylation in later life. Thus, zinc deficiency during pregnancy may induce alterations in total LINE-1 methylation and LINE-1 hypermethylation loci. These results suggest a possible epigenetic link between zinc deficiency during pregnancy and long-term outcomes in the offspring.
Comparison of optimal bowel cleansing effects of 1L polyethylene glycol with ascorbic acid versus sodium picosulfate with magnesium citrate: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Lee Jun , Kim Seong-Jung , Kim Sang-Wook , Song Hyo-Yeop , Seo Geom Seog , Kim Dong-Hyun , Myung Dae-Seong , Kim Hyun-Soo , Joo Young-Eun , Kim So Yeong
Published: December 2022

Various low-volume bowel cleansing formulations that improve compliance have been approved and are being used in clinical practice. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of 1 L polyethylene glycol (PEG) with ascorbic acid with that of sodium picosulfate (PICO) with magnesium citrate. This was a multicenter, randomized controlled, non-inferiority study. Patients were randomized into a 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid group and a PICO with magnesium citrate group according to the bowel cleansing agent used. Colonoscopy was performed as a single-blind study wherein the endoscopist had no information about any bowel preparation agent. The efficacy of bowel cleansing was assessed using the Harefield Cleansing Scale (HCS), and adverse events, preferences, and satisfaction were evaluated using a patient-reported questionnaire before colonoscopy. A total of 254 participants were randomly assigned to two groups: 115 in the 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid group and 113 in the PICO with magnesium citrate group. Overall bowel cleansing success was not statistically different between the two groups (97.4 vs. 97.3%), confirming that 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid was not inferior to PICO with magnesium citrate (lower confidence limit, -4.15%; p = 1.00). High-quality bowel cleansing was achieved in 87% of the 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid group and 77% of the PICO with magnesium citrate group (Lower confidence limit, 1.29%, p = 0.05). In terms of patient satisfaction, PICO with magnesium citrate was better, but compliance and side effects were similar in both groups. The 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid showed similar efficacy and adverse events as PICO with magnesium citrate. Although 1 L PEG with ascorbic acid is very effective in bowel preparation despite its small volume, it is necessary to increase satisfaction such as taste and feeling.
TBProfiler for automated calling of the association with drug resistance of variants in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Verboven Lennert , Phelan Jody , Heupink Tim H. , Van Rie Annelies
Published: December 2022

Following a huge global effort, the first World Health Organization (WHO)-endorsed catalogue of 17,356 variants in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex along with their classification as associated with resistance (interim), not associated with resistance (interim) or uncertain significance was made public In June 2021. This marks a critical step towards the application of next generation sequencing (NGS) data for clinical care. Unfortunately, the variant format used makes it difficult to look up variants when NGS data is generated by other bioinformatics pipelines. Furthermore, the large number of variants of uncertain significance in the catalogue hamper its useability in clinical practice. We successfully converted 98.3% of variants from the WHO catalogue format to the standardized HGVS format. We also created TBProfiler version 4.4.0 to automate the calling of all variants located in the tier 1 and 2 candidate resistance genes along with their classification when listed in the WHO catalogue. Using a representative sample of 339 clinical isolates from South Africa containing 691 variants in a tier 1 or 2 gene, TBProfiler classified 105 (15%) variants as conferring resistance, 72 (10%) as not conferring resistance and 514 (74%) as unclassified, with an average of 29 unclassified variants per isolate. Using a second cohort of 56 clinical isolates from a TB outbreak in Spain containing 21 variants in the tier 1 and 2 genes, TBProfiler classified 13 (61.9%) as unclassified, 7 (33.3%) as not conferring resistance, and a single variant (4.8%) classified as conferring resistance. Continued global efforts using standardized methods for genotyping, phenotyping and bioinformatic analyses will be essential to ensure that knowledge on genomic variants translates into improved patient care.
Color diversity judgments in peripheral vision: Evidence against “cost-free” representations
Authors: Hawkins Brylee , Evans Dee , Preston Anya , Westmoreland Kendra , Mims Callie E. , Lolo Kiara , Rosario Nicholas , Odegaard Brian
Published: December 2022

Is visual perception “rich” or “sparse?” One finding supporting the “rich” hypothesis shows that a specific visual summary representation, color diversity, is represented “cost-free” outside focally-attended regions in dual-task paradigms [1]. Here, we investigated whether this “cost-free” phenomenon for color diversity perception extends to peripheral vision. After replicating previous findings and verifying that color diversity is represented “cost-free” in central vision, we performed two experiments: in our first experiment, we extended the paradigm to peripheral vision and found that in minimally-attended regions of space, color diversity perception was impaired. In a second and final experiment, we added confidence judgments to our task, and found that participants maintained high levels of metacognitive awareness of impaired performance in minimally-attended visual areas in the periphery. These findings provide evidence that color perception may be partially attention-dependent in peripheral vision, and challenge previous views on both sides of the rich vs. sparse debate.
Patient-Centered Communication (PCC) scale: Psychometric analysis and validation of a health survey measure
Authors: Moser Richard P. , Trivedi Neha , Murray Ashley , Jensen Roxanne E. , Willis Gordon , Blake Kelly D.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Patient-centered communication (PCC) is one important component of patient-centered care and seen as a goal for most clinical encounters. Previous research has shown that higher PCC is related to an increase in healthy behaviors and less morbidity, among other outcomes. Given its importance, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) commissioned a monograph in 2007 to synthesize the existing literature on PCC and determine measurement objectives and strategies for measuring this construct, with a particular focus on cancer survivors. Based on this effort, a seven-item PCC scale was included on the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), a probability-based survey of the US adult population. This study used HINTS data collected in 2018 to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PCC scale for the general US adult population including measures of reliability and validity.

Results

Through an exploratory factor analysis, the seven-item PCC scale was shown to be unidimensional with good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = .92). A confirmatory factor analysis verified the factor structure. Other construct validity metrics included known groups and discriminant validity. Known group comparisons were conducted for several sociodemographic factors and health self-efficacy confirming a priori assumptions. Discriminant validity tests with measures of social support and anxiety/depression showed relatively weak associations.

Conclusions

The psychometric properties of this scale demonstrate its scientific utility for both surveillance research and other smaller-scale studies. Given its association with many health outcomes, it can also be used to better understand the dynamics in a clinical encounter.
Selection of inter-row herbaceous covers in a sloping, organic, non-irrigated vineyard
Authors: Pornaro Cristina , Meggio Franco , Tonon Fulvio , Mazzon Luca , Sartori Luigi , Berti Antonio , Macolino Stefano
Published: December 2022

Inter-row vegetation in vineyards is classified as a service crop as it provides many ecosystem services. The vegetation is often removed but maintaining them can mitigate the negative effects on the environment. However, the type of species or mixture choice can affect their success. A field trial was conducted in an organically-managed vineyard of Cabernet sauvignon Vitis vinifera L. cultivars in north-eastern Italy, in which three blends of grass species (Shedonorus arundinaceus, Lolium perenne and Festuca rubra) and two grass-legume mixtures were grown in the inter-rows and compared with resident vegetation and regularly tilled bare soil. Each vegetation type, including resident vegetation, was subjected to mulching and non-mulching treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of seeded species or mixtures in the inter-row spaces of the vineyard in north-Italy as an alternative management to resident vegetation and tilled soil. The experiment was conducted over two years to monitor the persistence of the sown vegetation and the influence of vegetation types on vine performance and grape composition, and on soil compaction and erosion. The relative abundances of each species, vegetation height, percentage green cover and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), vine shoot length, number of leaves per vine shoot, leaf area, bunch weight, vine NDVI, soil compaction and erosion, and depth and width of tractor tyre prints were measured. Over time, weed invasion altered the botanical composition of all vegetation types except for the S. arundinaceus blend, which remained stable throughout the study period. Our results showed that vine parameters were not affected by the type of vegetation in the inter-rows, nor were there differences between the grassed and bare soil inter-rows. Soil compaction and erosion, and tractor tyre prints were not directly affected by the type of vegetation cover, but they were affected by tillage in the plots with bare soil in the inter-rows or where it was used to prepare the soil for sowing. Soil compaction and erosion were related to the percentage vegetation cover. Mulching did not affect any of the parameters measured. Therefore, species selection plays a crucial role in inter-row vegetation management and in minimising environmental impacts. S. arundinaceus gave high protection against soil erosion due to its high persistence throughout the year and had the lowest growth rate thus requiring fewer cuttings.