bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preconception care: what do reproductive-aged women know and think in a community? A community-based, cross-sectional study at Mizan Aman town, Ethiopia
Authors: Guta Nuredin Mohammed , Dachew Aklilu Mamo
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To assess factors associated with knowledge and attitudes towards preconception care among reproductive-aged women in Mizan Aman town, southwest, Ethiopia.

Design and methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 November to 25 November 2021. The data were entered into Epidata V.3.1 and exported to SPSS V.26. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with outcome variables.

Setting and participants

The study was conducted in Mizan Aman town, Southwest, Ethiopia. A total of 422 reproductive-aged women were enrolled in the study.

Outcome

Knowledge and attitude towards preconception care, associated factors of preconception care.

Results

168 (39.8%) study subjects had good knowledge about preconception care, and 52.4% of the study subjects had a favourable attitude. Knowledge of preconception care was significantly associated with educational status (adjusted OR, AOR=6, p=0.01), marital status (AOR=1.47, p=0.001) and a positive attitude (AOR=1.8, p=0.08). Preconception care attitude was strongly associated with the maternal age group of 25–35 years (AOR=5.4, p=0.001), maternal age group of 36–42 years (AOR=3.5, p=0.02), source of income (AOR=5.3, p=0.01) and occupation (AOR=13.9, p=001).

Conclusion

The study revealed that knowledge about preconception care was significantly lower. Disseminating preconception education and incorporating preconception care into the maternal continuum of care was the most important to boost the knowledge and attitude level of women towards preconception care.
Implementation of an antibiotic resistance surveillance tool in Madagascar, the TSARA project: a prospective, observational, multicentre, hospital-based study protocol
Authors: Elias Christelle , Raad Mathieu , Rasoanandrasana Saida , Raherinandrasana Antso Hasina , Andriananja Volatiana , Raberahona Mihaja , Moore Catrin E , Randria Mamy , Raskine Laurent , Vanhems Philippe , Babin François-Xavier
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a significant public health threat. Without any interventions, it has been modelled that AMR will account for an estimated 10 million deaths annually by 2050, this mainly affects low/middle-income countries. AMR has a systemic negative perspective affecting the overall healthcare system down to the patient’s personal outcome. In response to this issue, the WHO urged countries to provide antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs). ASPs in hospitals are a vital component of national action plans for AMR, and have been shown to significantly reduce AMR, in particular in low-income countries such as Madagascar.

As part of an ASP, AMR surveillance provides essential information needed to guide medical practice. We developed an AMR surveillance tool—Technique de Surveillance Actualisée de la Résistance aux Antimicrobiens (TSARA)—with the support of the Mérieux Foundation. TSARA combines bacteriological and clinical information to provide a better understanding of the scope and the effects of AMR in Madagascar, where no such surveillance tool exists.

Methods and analysis

A prospective, observational, hospital-based study was carried out for data collection using a standardised data collection tool, called TSARA deployed in 2023 in 10 hospitals in Madagascar participating in the national Malagasy laboratory network (Réseau des Laboratoires à Madagascar (RESAMAD)). Any hospitalised patient where the clinician decided to take a bacterial sample is included. As a prospective study, individual isolate-level data and antimicrobial susceptibility information on pathogens were collected routinely from the bacteriology laboratory and compiled with clinical information retrieved from face-to-face interviews with the patient and completed using medical records where necessary. Analysis of the local ecology, resistance rates and antibiotic prescription patterns were collected.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol obtained ethical approval from the Malagasy Ethical Committee n°07-MSANP/SG/AGMED/CNPV/CERBM on 24 January 2023. Findings generated were shared with national health stakeholders, microbiologists, members of the RESAMAD network and the Malagasy academic society of infectious diseases.
Development of a tool for assessing the clinical competency of Chinese master’s nursing students based on the mini-CEX: a Delphi method study
Authors: Peng Qian , Gao Yan , Liu Na , Gan Xiuni
Published: March 2024

Objective

To construct a scientific and systematic competency evaluation tool for master of nursing specialists (MNS) and to provide a reference for the training, assessment and competency evaluation of MNS.

Methods

A first draft of the indicators for assessing MNS core competencies was developed on the basis of published research and group discussions. Between June and December 2020, the indicators were revised using two rounds of the Delphi expert consultation method, with questionnaires completed by 16 experts from five provinces in China.

Results

The valid retrieval rate of the two questionnaires was 100.00%, and the coefficient of expert authority was 0.931. The Kendall’s concordance coefficients of the two rounds of questionnaires were 0.136 (p<0.05) and 0.147 (p<0.05), respectively. Consensus was reached on the seven dimensions and 52 items of the MNS competency assessment instrument. The instrument dimensions included nurse‒patient communication (9 items), health assessment (7 items), clinical decision-making (8 items), operational skills (7 items), health promotion (6 items), humanistic care (9 items) and organisational effectiveness (6 items).

Conclusions

The MNS competency assessment tool constructed in this study is focused and highly credible. The findings can be used as a guide for the training, assessment and competence evaluation of MNS in the future.
Co-creating a new Charter for equitable and inclusive co-creation: insights from an international forum of academic and lived experience experts
Authors: Mulvale Gillian , Moll Sandra , Phoenix Michelle , Buettgen Alexis , Freeman Bonnie , Murray-Leung Louise , Micsinszki Samantha K , Mulalu Lulwama , Vrzovski Alexa , Foisy Christina
Published: March 2024

Background

Co-creation approaches, such as co-design and co-production, aspire to power-sharing and collaboration between service providers and service users, recognising the specific insights each group can provide to improve health and other public services. However, an intentional focus on equity-based approaches grounded in lived experience and epistemic justice is required considering entrenched structural inequities between service-users and service-providers in public and institutional spaces where co-creation happens.

Objectives

This paper presents a Charter of tenets and principles to foster a new era of ‘Equity-based Co-Creation’ (EqCC).

Methods

The Charter is based on themes heard during an International Forum held in August 2022 in Ontario, Canada, where 48 lived experience experts and researchers were purposively invited to deliberate challenges and opportunities in advancing equity in the co-creation field.

Results

The Charter’s seven tenets—honouring worldviews, acknowledging ongoing and historical harms, operationalising inclusivity, establishing safer and brave spaces, valuing lived experiences, ‘being with’ and fostering trust, and cultivating an EqCC heartset/mindset—aim to promote intentional inclusion of participants with intersecting social positions and differing historic oppressions. This means honouring and foregrounding lived experiences of service users and communities experiencing ongoing structural oppression and socio-political alienation—Black, Indigenous and people of colour; disabled, Mad and Deaf communities, women, 2S/LGBTQIA+ communities, people perceived to be mentally ill and other minoritised groups—to address epistemic injustice in co-creation methodologies and practice, thereby providing opportunities to begin to dismantle intersecting systems of oppression and structural violence.

Conclusions

Each Charter tenet speaks to a multilayered, multidimensional process that is foundational to shifting paradigms about redesigning our health and social systems and changing our relational practices. Readers are encouraged to share their reactions to the Charter, their experiences implementing it in their own work, and to participate in a growing international EqCC community of practice.
IMproving psYchosocial adjustment to Traumatic Brain Injury from acute to chronic injury through development and evaluation of themyTBIonline psychoeducation platform: protocol for a mixed-methods study
Authors: Troeung Lakkhina , Sarunga Raja Thilaga L , Mann Georgina , Wagland Janet , MacLeod Colin , Martini Angelita
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This protocol describes themyTBIstudy which aims to: (1) develop an online psychoeducation platform for people with traumatic brain injury (TBI), their family members/caregivers, and healthcare staff to improve psychosocial adjustment to TBI across different phases of injury (acute, postacute, and chronic), and (2) undertake an evaluation of efficacy, acceptability, and feasibility.

Methods and analysis

A three-stage mixed-methods research design will be used. The study will be undertaken across four postacute community-based neurorehabilitation and disability support services in Western Australia. Stage 1 (interviews and surveys) will use consumer-driven qualitative methodology to: (1) understand the recovery experiences and psychosocial challenges of people with TBI over key stages (acute, postacute, and chronic), and (2) identify required areas of psychosocial support to inform the psychoeducation platform development. Stage 2 (development) will use a Delphi expert consensus method to: (1) determine the final psychoeducation modules, and (2) perform acceptance testing of themyTBIplatform. Finally, stage 3 (evaluation) will be a randomised stepped-wedge trial to evaluate efficacy, acceptability, and feasibility. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, postintervention, follow-up, and at final discharge from services. Change in outcomes will be analysed using multilevel mixed-effects modelling. Follow-up surveys will be conducted to evaluate acceptability and feasibility.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was granted by North Metropolitan Health Service Mental Health Research Ethics and Governance Office (RGS0000005877). Study findings will be relevant to clinicians, researchers, and organisations who are seeking a cost-effective solution to deliver ongoing psychoeducation and support to individuals with TBI across the recovery journey.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12623000990628.
Rituximab-combined anthracycline-free chemotherapy in newly diagnosed paediatric and adolescent patients with non-high-risk aggressive mature B cell lymphoma: protocol for a single-arm, open-label, multicentre, phase II study (the Japan Children’s Cancer Group Multicentre Trial, JPLSG B-NHL-20)
Authors: Sekimizu Masahiro , Fukano Reiji , Koga Yuhki , Mitsui Tetsuo , Fujita Naoto , Mori Takeshi , Hori Daiki , Tanaka Makito , Ohki Kentaro , Iwafuchi Hideto , Nakazawa Atsuko , Mori Tetsuya , Kobayashi Ryoji , Hashimoto Hiroya , M. Saito Akiko , Kamei Michi
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Children and adolescents with mature B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) are treated with short-intensive chemotherapy. The burden of short-term and long-term toxicity is highly relative to its high cure rate in good-risk patients. Although the addition of rituximab to standard lymphome Malin B (LMB) chemotherapy markedly prolongs event-free survival and overall survival in high-risk patients, the benefit of rituximab in good-risk patients remains to be elucidated. This clinical trial will examine whether the addition of rituximab eliminates anthracyclines in good-risk patients without compromising treatment outcomes.

Methods and analysis

We will perform a single-arm, open-label, multicentre phase II study. Low-risk (stage I – completely resected, stage II abdominal) and intermediate-risk (stages I and II – incompletely resected; stage II – resected, other than abdominal; stage III with LDH <2× upper limit of normal) patients with newly diagnosed B-NHL are eligible. Low-risk patients receive two courses of R-COM1P (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, methotrexate, prednisolone and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone), and intermediate-risk patients receive COP (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisolone and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone) followed by two courses each of R-COM3P and R-CYM (rituximab, cytarabine, methotrexate and intrathecal methotrexate with hydrocortisone). The primary endpoint is a 3-year event-free survival rate in paediatric patients (<18 years) with intermediate-risk disease. 100 patients (10 low-risk and 90 intermediate-risk) will enrol within a 4-year enrolment period and the follow-up period will be 3 years. 108 institutions are participating as of 1 January 2024 (64 university hospitals, 29 general hospitals, 12 children’s hospitals and three cancer centres).

Ethics and dissemination

This research was approved by the Certified Review Board at NHO Nagoya Medical Center (Nagoya, Japan) on 21 September 2021. Written informed consent is obtained from all patients and/or their guardians. The results of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Study registration

Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs041210104.
Daily life activities of young adults with obesity living in highly accessible and compact urban environments in Seoul, South Korea: a spatiotemporal qualitative study protocol
Authors: Kim Dong Ha , Lee Eunice Hong Lim , Jeong Ji Yong , Lee Jihyun , Yoo Seunghyun
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Amid the growing global concern about obesity, young adults in South Korea are particularly affected, with 30.8% of people aged 19–34 classified as obese. Given the urban-centric lifestyle of Korean youth, understanding the relationship between daily life activities and the urban environment holds great promise for effective interventions. This study aims to explore the daily life activities of young adults with obesity in Seoul, a city known for its highly accessible and compact environment. The research questions explore the interaction between daily life activities and the neighbourhood environment and consider weight management in an urban context.

Methods and analysis

This study uses an extended qualitative geographic information system approach to explore a district in Seoul with a highly accessible and compact urban environment. The sample comprises young adults with obesity (aged 19–34) residing in the study area, with recruitment targeting up to 51 participants for data saturation. A qualitative, multimethod approach combines descriptive and spatiotemporal data collection. Descriptive data are being collected, including in-depth interviews and photographs of daily food consumption. Spatial data collection involves field observations, cognitive mapping and mobile Global Positioning System tracking. Temporal data is gathered through participants drawing round timetables, detailing their daily schedules. Data analysis will entail thematic analysis of the interview data and content analysis of the spatiotemporal data. For the integrated analysis, pattern finding will be used to synthesise the data.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the institutional review board of Seoul National University on 11 July 2022. Data collection and curation are currently underway, and the results of the analysis will be shared with the scientific community at international conferences and peer-reviewed journals. We are planning an open seminar to share our research findings with relevant policy-makers, community organisations and health professionals.
Protocol for the process evaluation of an intervention to improve antenatal smoking cessation support (MOHMQuit) in maternity services in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Longman Jo , Paul Christine , Cashmore Aaron , Twyman Laura , Barnes Larisa A J , Adams Catherine , Bonevski Billie , Milat Andrew , Passey Megan E
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Smoking cessation in pregnancy remains a public health priority. Our team used the Behaviour Change Wheel to develop the Midwives and Obstetricians Helping Mothers to Quit smoking (MOHMQuit) intervention with health system, leader (including managers and educators) and clinician components. MOHMQuit addresses a critical evidence to practice gap in the provision of smoking cessation support in antenatal care. It involves nine maternity services in New South Wales in a cluster randomised stepped-wedge controlled trial of effectiveness. This paper describes the design and rationale for the process evaluation of MOHMQuit. The process evaluation aims to assess to what extent and how MOHMQuit is being implemented (acceptability; adoption/uptake; appropriateness; feasibility; fidelity; penetration and sustainability), and the context in which it is implemented, in order to support further refinement of MOHMQuit throughout the trial, and aid understanding and interpretation of the results of the trial.

Methods and analysis

The process evaluation is an integral part of the stepped-wedge trial. Its design is underpinned by implementation science frameworks and adopts a mixed methods approach. Quantitative evidence from participating leaders and clinicians in our study will be used to produce individual and site-level descriptive statistics. Qualitative evidence of leaders’ perceptions about the implementation will be collected using semistructured interviews and will be analysed descriptively within-site and thematically across the dataset. The process evaluation will also use publicly available data and observations from the research team implementing MOHMQuit, for example, training logs. These data will be synthesised to provide site-level as well as individual-level implementation outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval from the Population Health Services Research Ethics Committee for NSW, Australia (Reference 2021/ETH00887). Results will be communicated via the study’s steering committee and will also be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Trials Registry ACTRN12622000167763.https://www.australianclinicaltrials.gov.au/anzctr/trial/ACTRN12622000167763.
Bridging the gap: a resident-led transitional care clinic to improve post hospital care in a safety-net academic community hospital
Authors: Li Patrick , Kang Tiffany , Carrillo-Argueta Sandy , Kassapidis Vickie , Grohman Rebecca , Martinez Michael J , Sartori Daniel J , Hayes Rachael , Jervis Ramiro , Moussa Marwa
Published: March 2024

The transitional period between hospital discharge and primary care follow-up is a vulnerable time for patients that can result in adverse health outcomes and preventable hospital readmissions. This is especially true for patients of safety-net hospitals (SNHs) who often struggle to secure primary care access when leaving the hospital due to social, economic and cultural barriers. In this study, we describe a resident-led postdischarge clinic that serves patients discharged from NYU Langone Hospital—Brooklyn, an urban safety-net academic hospital. In our multivariable analysis, there was no statistical difference in the readmission rate between those who completed the transitional care management and those who did not (OR 1.32 (0.75–2.36), p=0.336), but there was a statistically significant increase in primary care provider (PCP) engagement (OR 0.53 (0.45–0.62), p<0.001). Overall, this study describes a postdischarge clinic model embedded in a resident clinic in an urban SNH that is associated with increased PCP engagement, but no reduction in 30-day hospital readmissions.
The process of developing a joint theory of change across three global entities: can this help to make their efforts to strengthen capacity for implementation research more effective?
Authors: Aslanyan Garry , Sheikh Kabir , Feletto Marta , Launois Pascal , Vahedi Mahnaz , Brizuela Vanessa , Thorson Anna , Begg Sara , Crossman Susie , Bates Imelda
Published: March 2024

Introduction

A theory of change is a visual representation of the pathway by which a programme anticipates it will achieve its goal. It usually starts with discussions around the goal and works backwards through outcomes and outputs to activities.

Methods

We used a theory of change to improve coherence across three research entities at the WHO. Part of the remit of all three entities is to strengthen capacity in low-income and middle-income countries for implementation research.

Results

Representatives from the three entities were able to formulate a joint goal for strengthening capacity in implementation research. They identified three pathways by which this could be achieved: (a) conducting implementation research, (b) strengthening implementation research systems and (c) using implementation research for public health priorities.

Conclusion

The process of developing the theory of change and the logic framework it created, provided a means to track progress towards the goal and to guide improvements in programmes within their lifetime. The process we used to develop the theory of change and the pathways to achieve the joint goal are adaptable and could be used by other organisations that also aim to strengthen research capacity. This would lead to more coherence, better translation of research findings into decision-making and ultimately improvements in public health.
Healthcare access, attitudes and behaviours among Navajo adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Brown Heidi E , Begay Rachelle L , Sanderson Priscilla R , Chief Carmenlita , Lameman Breanna , Harris Robin B
Published: March 2024

Objective

To assess factors associated with positive COVID-19 tests, perspectives on health-related care delivery during pandemic and factors supporting resilience among members of the Navajo Nation.

Methods and analysis

From May through October 2021, a multi-institutional team recruited participants (n=154) to complete a 49-item questionnaire or participate in a focus group (n=14) about their experience with COVID-19 and the effects on their use and access to allopathic and traditional healthcare. A multi-investigator, phenomenological approach summarised focus group experiences.

Results

While 73% had been tested for COVID-19, only 27.8% reported a positive test. Positive tests were not associated with household size or multigenerational homes, though time to grocery store was (p=0.04). There were no significant differences in allopathic or traditional medical care experiences from before and during the pandemic. Despite limited internet access, 28.8% chose a telehealth appointment and 42% expressed satisfaction with their experience. Discussion themes revealed perceived disruptions of healthcare needs with acknowledgement that healthcare providers were supportive throughout the Navajo Nation quarantine.

Conclusion

Presence of comorbidities and living in multigenerational homes do not explain the disproportionate effects of COVID-19 among American Indian communities. Strengthening family and community bonds supported resilience in these communities.
Descriptive epidemiology of muscle-strengthening activities in Japanese middle-aged and older adults: the Hisayama Study
Authors: Honda Takanori , Hata Jun , Shibata Mao , Sakata Satoko , Furuta Yoshihiko , Oishi Emi , Kitazono Takanari , Ninomiya Toshiharu
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Data on the prevalence of muscle-strengthening activities in Asia have been limited. Using data from a community-based cross-sectional survey of a general adult population in Japan, whose age and occupational distribution were very similar to the national averages, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of muscle-strengthening activities.

Methods

A community survey of local residents over 40 years of age was conducted in 2017–2018 as part of the Hisayama Study. Information on muscle-strengthening activities was obtained by means of a face-to-face interview by nurses. The prevalence of muscle-strengthening activities according to sex and age groups was estimated using a modified Poisson regression model. The prevalence ratios by subgroups based on anthropometry, physical conditions and lifestyle and behavioural factors were also estimated.

Results

Data on muscle-strengthening activities were available on 1509 men and 1946 women. Overall, 162 individuals (4.7%) engaged in muscle-strengthening activities at least 1 day/week, and 133 (3.8%) did so for 2 days or more per week. Women were less likely to engage in muscle-strengthening activities than men. The prevalence was generally comparable across subgroups of covariates, while an even lower prevalence was observed for some specific subpopulations, including individuals with diabetes and current smokers.

Conclusions

The prevalence of muscle-strengthening activities was estimated to be low in a general Japanese adult population. Population-wide approaches for the entire country and tailored educational interventions for specific subpopulations may be necessary in order to effectively enhance the participation in muscle-strengthening activities at a population level.
Is joint hypermobility linked to self-reported non-recovery from COVID-19? Case–control evidence from the British COVID Symptom Study Biobank
Authors: Eccles Jessica A , Cadar Dorina , Quadt Lisa , Hakim Alan J , Gall Nicholas ,   Covid Symptom Survey Biobank Consortium, Bowyer Vicky , Cheetham Nathan , Steves Claire J , Critchley Hugo D , Davies Kevin A
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study sought to explore whether generalised joint hypermobility (GJH, a common marker of variant connective tissue) was a risk factor for self-reported non-recovery from COVID-19 infection.

Design

Prospective observational study.

Setting

COVID Symptom Study Biobank (https://cssbiobank.com/) UK

Participants

Participants were surveyed in August 2022. 3064 (81.4%) reported at least one infection with COVID-19. These individuals self-reported on recovery and completed a self-report questionnaire to detect GJH (Hakim and Grahame 5-part questionnaire, 5PQ).

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the presence of self-reported non-recovery from COVID-19 infection at the time of the survey. Additional outcomes included scores on 5PQ and self-reported fatigue level (Chalder Fatigue Scale).

Results

The presence of GJH was not specifically associated with reported COVID-19 infection risk per se. However, it was significantly associated with non-recovery from COVID-19 (OR 1.43 (95% CI 1.20 to 1.70)). This association remained after sequential models adjusting for age, sex, ethnic group, education level and index of multiple deprivation (OR 1.33 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.61)) and further adjustment for vaccination status and number of vaccinations (OR 1.33 (95% CI 1.10 to 1.60)). Additionally, including in a model adjusting for all covariates, hypermobility significantly predicted higher fatigue levels (B=0.95, SE=0.25, t=3.77, SE, p=0.002). Fatigue levels mediated the link between GJH and non-recovery from COVID-19 (estimate of indirect effect=0.18, 95% bootstrapped CI 0.08 to 0.29).

Conclusions

Individuals with GJH were approximately 30% more likely not to have recovered fully from COVID-19 infection at the time of the questionnaire, and this predicted the fatigue level. This observation is clinically important through its potential impact for understanding and identifying sub-phenotypes of long COVID for screening and personalised targeted interventions. More generally, greater awareness of GJH and its extra-articular associations is needed for effective patient stratification and implementation of personalised medicine.
Injury rate and characteristics in Japanese male professional ice hockey players: prospective study of 60 players over 10 seasons
Authors: Suzuki Katsunori , Yoneoka Daisuke , Terada Masakazu , Kenjo Katsuyuki , Koyanagi Toshiya , Suzuki Yuki
Published: March 2024

Objectives

We aimed to assess the injury rate and characteristics in Japanese male professional ice hockey players.

Methods

This study involved an inclusive cohort of male ice hockey players from a Japanese professional team competing in the 2010–2011 through the 2019–2020 seasons. An injury was defined as the ‘time-loss and medical attention’ definition of the International Ice Hockey Federation. All injuries that occurred during games and practice sessions were recorded daily on injury charts by the team athletic trainers and/or physician. Game-related injury rates were analysed using both the athlete-at-risk (AAR) and time on ice (TOI) methods.

Results

Sixty players were included in the study. A total of 479 injuries were recorded, with 307 (64%) occurring during 451 games and 172 (36%) occurring during the practice sessions. The game-related injury rates obtained using the AAR and TOI methods were not statistically different (p>0.05): 115.3 (95% CI 107.1 to 123.1) and 116.8 (95% CI 109.9 to 124.7) per 1000 player-game hours, respectively. Most injuries involved the upper extremities (39.9% game-related, 32.6% practice-related), followed by the lower extremities (23.5% game-related, 32.5% practice-related). The most frequent mechanism of game-related injury was body checking (45.4%).

Conclusion

We observed a higher injury rate in a Japanese male professional team compared with rates reported in other leagues. The reported injury characteristics should help to improve injury prevention strategies that should target shoulder dislocations caused by body checking, and finger or wrist fractures resulting from contact with a hockey stick or puck impact.
Carbon footprinting for the gastroenterologist
Authors: Siddhi Sandeep Shivananda , Donnelly Mhairi
Published: March 2024

We are in a climate emergency—this is anthropogenic, and we can do something about it. An awareness of carbon footprinting is essential to allow us to understand and address this issue, both in our personal and professional lives. The aim of this article is to demystify carbon footprinting and to make the concept relevant to the gastrointestinal healthcare professional.
Optokinetic nystagmus: six practical uses
Authors: Hale David Edward , Reich Stephen , Gold Dan
Published: March 2024

Optokinetic nystagmus (OKN) is a reflexive eye movement in response to movement of the viewer’s visual environment that consists of a slow phase eye movement in the direction of the stimulus followed by a quick phase in the opposite direction. When tested at the bedside, the slow phases represent smooth pursuit, while the quick phases represent saccades. Normally, OKN is conjugate and symmetric (horizontally and vertically). Abnormalities in the optokinetic response can provide diagnostic and localising value. We describe six clinical scenarios where OKN testing is most useful for the practising neurologist.
Greater hyperthermia in men with type 2 diabetes does not lead to higher serum levels of cellular stress biomarkers following exercise-heat stress
Authors: Goulet Nicholas , Tetzlaff Emily J. , McCormick James J. , King Kelli E. , Janetos Kristina-Marie T. , Sigal Ronald J. , Boulay Pierre , Kenny Glen P.
Published: March 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with worsening age-related impairments in heat loss, causing higher core temperature during exercise. We evaluated whether these thermoregulatory impairments occur with altered serum protein responses to heat stress by measuring cytoprotection, inflammation, and tissue damage biomarkers in middle-aged-to-older men (50–74 years) with ( n = 16) and without ( n = 14) T2D following exercise in 40°C. There were no changes in irisin, klotho, HSP70, sCD14, TNF-α, and IL-6, whereas NGAL (+539 pg/mL, p = 0.002) and iFABP (+250 pg/mL, p < 0.001) increased similarly across groups. These similar response patterns occurred despite elevated core temperature in individuals with T2D, suggesting greater heat vulnerability.
Learning Topological Horseshoe via Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Yang Xiao-Song , Cheng Junfeng
Published: March 2024

Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) have been successfully applied to investigations of numerical dynamics of finite-dimensional nonlinear systems such as ODEs instead of finding numerical solutions to ODEs via the traditional Runge–Kutta method and its variants. To show the advantages of DNNs, in this paper, we demonstrate that the DNNs are more efficient in finding topological horseshoes in chaotic dynamical systems.
Fracture smectites in bedrock at the Kivetty and Romuvaara sites, Finland, as natural analogues for radioactive waste repository buffers
Authors: Reijonen H. M. , Al-Ani T. , Elminen T. , Kuva J. , Issukka K. , Lamminmäki R.
Published: March 2024

Bentonite is used in various geological repository designs for highly radioactive and low- and intermediate-level waste. Stability of such materials has been evaluated in long-term safety assessments, with recent emphasis on potential chemical erosion of these clays in fresh groundwater conditions. The fracture-filling mineralogy at two investigation sites, Kivetty and Romuvaara, in Finland shows the existence of different types of smectites characterized by their respective dominant elements, such as Mg-, Fe- and Na–Ca-rich smectites. Of these, Ca- and Na-smectites are likely to be montmorillonites that provide potential natural analogues for the bentonite buffers and their long-term performance in fractured bedrock environments. The smectite minerals observed reflect the local parent rock mineral composition, suggesting
in situ
formation during hydrothermal alteration, well predating the current freshwater conditions in the fractured bedrock. These observations support the stability of smectites, including Na- and Ca-montmorillonites, in the fractured bedrock of glaciated terrain with fresh continental groundwater extending to repository-relevant depths. Further, no erosion or sedimentation processes have been observed to have taken place in the fracture systems studied. However, uncertainties remain related to detailed exchangeable cation compositions of the smectite. Current groundwater systems at both sites would alter the composition of montmorillonite towards the Ca-rich form, and more detailed investigations are required to assess the stability of Na-montmorillonite in connection to open fractures. In general, bentonite alteration in fractures to Ca-montmorillonite would be beneficial in repository scenarios that consider potential chemical erosion by dilute groundwater.

Supplementary material:
Supplementary material 1 (XCT data for fracture smectite samples from Kivetty and Romuvaara) are available at
https://doi.org/10.23729/1ce75faa-d52a-43cd-af40-3961b3081f70
[last accessed 5 July 2023] and Supplementary material 2 (XRD diffractogram data) and Supplementary material 3 (SEM-EDS data) are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.7126477

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Sustainable geological disposal and containment of radioactive waste collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/topic/collections/radioactive
Multi-Source and Multi-modal Deep Network Embedding for Cross-Network Node Classification
Authors: Yang Hongwei , He Hui , Zhang Weizhe , Wang Yan , Jing Lin
Published: March 2024

In recent years, to address the issue of networked data sparsity in node classification tasks, cross-network node classification (CNNC) leverages the richer information from a source network to enhance the performance of node classification in the target network, which typically has sparser information. However, in real-world applications, labeled nodes may be collected from multiple sources with multiple modalities (e.g., text, vision, and video). Naive application of single-source and single-modal CNNC methods may result in sub-optimal solutions. To this end, in this article, we propose a model called Multi-source and Multi-modal Cross-network Deep Network Embedding (M
2
CDNE) for cross-network node classification. In M
2
CDNE, we propose a deep multi-modal network embedding approach that combines the extracted deep multi-modal features to make the node vector representations network invariant. In addition, we apply dynamic adversarial adaptation to assess the significance of marginal and conditional probability distributions between each source and target network to make node vector representations label discriminative. Furthermore, we devise to classify nodes in the target network through the related source classifier and aggregate different predictions utilizing respective network weights, corresponding to the discrepancy between each source and target network. Extensive experiments performed on real-world datasets demonstrate that the proposed M
2
CDNE significantly outperforms the state-of-the-art approaches.
NOODLE: Joint Cross-View Discrepancy Discovery and High-Order Correlation Detection for Multi-View Subspace Clustering
Authors: Gu Zhibin , Feng Songhe , Li Zhendong , Yuan Jiazheng , Liu Jun
Published: March 2024

Benefiting from the effective exploration of the valuable topological pair-wise relationship of data points across multiple views, multi-view subspace clustering (MVSC) has received increasing attention in recent years. However, we observe that existing MVSC approaches still suffer from two limitations that need to be further improved to enhance the clustering effectiveness. Firstly, previous MVSC approaches mainly prioritize extracting multi-view consistency, often neglecting the cross-view discrepancy that may arise from noise, outliers, and view-inherent properties. Secondly, existing techniques are constrained by their reliance on pair-wise sample correlation and pair-wise view correlation, failing to capture the high-order correlations that are enclosed within multiple views. To address these issues, we propose a novel MVSC framework via joiNt crOss-view discrepancy discOvery anDhigh-order correLation dEtection (NOODLE), seeking an informative target subspace representation compatible across multiple features to facilitate the downstream clustering task. Specifically, we first exploit the self-representation mechanism to learn multiple view-specific affinity matrices, which are further decomposed into cohesive factors and incongruous factors to fit the multi-view consistency and discrepancy, respectively. Additionally, an explicit cross-view sparse regularization is applied to incoherent parts, ensuring the consistency and discrepancy to be precisely separated from the initial subspace representations. Meanwhile, the multiple cohesive parts are stacked into a three-dimensional tensor associated with a tensor-Singular Value Decomposition (t-SVD) based weighted tensor nuclear norm constraint, enabling effective detection of the high-order correlations implicit in multi-view data. Our proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art methods for multi-view clustering on six benchmark datasets, demonstrating its effectiveness.
Impact Analysis of Different Trajectory Shapes on Optimization Based on Original Natural Algorithm
Authors: Chen Yijing , Nan Ying , Li Zhihan
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the reentry phase of the Aerospaceplane is taken as the research object, and the performance parameters of the reusable rocket of a private company are analyzed. Aiming at the guidance and control scheme of the spacecraft returning to the reentry trajectory in the real environment, the original natural algorithm is optimized by considering various reentry flight constraints, and the improved original natural algorithm is used to optimize the reentry trajectory of the Aerospaceplane. We obtained two types of reentry trajectories in the presence of large flight-restricted areas, the “S-type” trajectory and the “spiral-type” trajectory, and obtained data on various influencing factors. The results showed that the basic state parameters of the spiral trajectory optimized using the improved original natural algorithm after adding constraints met the constraint conditions. The aerodynamic heating rate and overload of the spiral reentry trajectory were to some extent greater than those of the S-type trajectory. Under the increasingly stringent requirements of the aerospace environment, new requirements were put forward for the thermal protection system to meet the wider environmental situation. This paper uses the improved original natural algorithm for the first time and applies it to the field of aerospace reentry and entry and adds more constraints to this algorithm for computation. Besides, for the first time, the macroscopic nature of trajectory types is used as a comparative element for parameter comparison, providing a reference basis for selecting trajectory optimization directions from the macroscopic perspective of trajectory types.
Optimal Mix Design and Mechanical Properties of Rapid‐Hardening Foam Concrete
Authors: Liu Yuan , Zhao Danni , Yin Ruibo , Li Qiang , Wu Xiong , Zeng Xianglong , Qiao Wei , Xu Jiangbo
Published: March 2024

This paper conducts compressive strength tests on foam concrete prepared under four factors and three levels through the design of orthogonal experiments. It delves into the phase change rules of the load–displacement curves obtained under various mix proportions. Furthermore, based on the 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength values, the study explores different mix proportion results using range analysis and variance analysis methods, thereby determining the optimal mix proportion that can satisfy the maximum 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength values. The results indicate that the compression process of rapid‐hardening foam concrete includes four stages: initial compaction stage, elastic stage, yielding stage, and plateau stage, with each stage having different causes. Additionally, the sensitivity sequence of factors affecting the 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength of rapid‐hardening foam concrete is respectively rapid sulfoaluminate cement (α) > water‐reducing agent content (δ) > foam content (β) > water‐cement ratio (γ) and rapid sulfoaluminate cement (α) > water‐cement ratio (γ) > foam content (β) > water‐reducing agent content (δ). With 100% sulfoaluminate cement content, the 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength values can reach 1.7054 and 2.5471 MPa, respectively, which are 13 times and 7 times the minimum values of 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength under other admixtures. The analysis shows that the content of rapid sulfoaluminate cement has the most significant effect on the 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength of rapid‐hardening foam concrete, with foam content having the least impact on 1‐day compressive strength and water‐reducing agent content having the least impact on 3‐day compressive strength. By integrating range analysis and variance analysis, the optimal mix proportion that simultaneously satisfies the maximum 1‐day and 3‐day compressive strength is determined to be 100% content of rapid‐hardening sulfoaluminate cement, 4% foam content, 0.55% cement ratio, and 0.12% admixture content. Overall, this study provides theoretical support for the research and development of new rapid‐hardening foam concrete materials and has significant practical implications for the emergency repair and construction of infrastructure projects.
Multi-UAV DMPC Cooperative Guidance with Constraints of Terminal Angle and Obstacle Avoidance
Authors: Jiang Zijie , Yang Xiuxia , Wang Cong , Zhang Yi , Yu Hao
Published: March 2024

This paper studies the salvo attack problem for multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) against a maneuvering target, and a guidance scheme based on distributed model predictive control (DMPC) is presented to achieve cooperative interception with constraints of terminal impact angle and no-fly zone (or obstacle) avoidance. Firstly, for guaranteeing the synchronization of UAVs in calculating their acceleration commands, the assumed predictive trajectories are introduced, whose deviation from the actual state trajectories is limited by the designed compatibility constraints. Secondly, based on the velocity-obstacle model, the obstacle avoidance constraints are presented, and for guaranteeing the convergence of impact time and impact angles, the auxiliary controller and terminal ingredients are developed, which complete the design of DMPC cooperative guidance scheme. Subsequently, the rigorous proof for the convergence of the proposed guidance scheme is provided. Based on the above design, a complete implementation process of the guidance scheme is presented, in which each UAV uses the particle swarm optimization algorithm to solve the preprocessed local optimization problem, and only the shared information among neighbors is utilized for calculation. Finally, the numerical simulations are conducted under diverse cases, which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed guidance scheme when solving cooperative interception problems with terminal angle and obstacle avoidance constraints.
Development of a Performance Assessment Model for Contractors in Saudi Arabian Construction Projects
Authors: Alfalah Ghasan , Aldajani Saad , Elshaboury Nehal , Al-Sakkaf Abobakr , Alshamrani Othman
Published: March 2024

Saudi Arabia leads the Gulf Cooperation Council countries in the construction industry, with 63% of the region’s future projects and $1.4 trillion in building and transportation projects. Previous studies have shown that 60% of construction projects are behind the schedule. One of the reasons behind this delay is the inappropriate selection of contractors for construction projects; therefore, the development of a contractor performance assessment model is needed for construction projects in Saudi Arabia. The proposed model includes the major key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure contractors’ performance in construction projects. Afterward, a questionnaire is conducted with construction professionals to recommend the important KPIs to consider while developing the model. The analytic hierarchy process decision‐making technique is applied for assessing relative priorities among the identified KPIs based on expert or decision‐maker consensus. The results show that the time category is the most important in selecting the best contractor, emphasizing the significance of timely project completion.
Inhibition of MALT1 and BCL2 Induces Synergistic Antitumor Activity in Models of B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Plotnik Joshua P. , Richardson Adam E. , Yang Haopeng , Rojas Estela , Bontcheva Velitchka , Dowell Colleen , Parsons Sydney , Wilson Ashley , Ravanmehr Vida , Will Christine , Jung Paul , Zhu Haizhong , Partha Sarathy Karunan , Panchal Sanjay C. , Mali Raghuveer Singh , Kohlhapp Frederick J. , McClure Ryan A. , Ramathal Cyril Y. , George Mariam D. , Jhala Manisha , Elsen Nathaniel L. , Qiu Wei , Judge Russell A. , Pan Chin , Mastracchio Anthony , Henderson Jared , Meulbroek Jonathan A. , Green Michael R. , Pappano William N.
Published: March 2024

The activated B cell (ABC) subset of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is characterized by chronic B-cell receptor signaling and associated with poor outcomes when treated with standard therapy. In ABC-DLBCL, MALT1 is a core enzyme that is constitutively activated by stimulation of the B-cell receptor or gain-of-function mutations in upstream components of the signaling pathway, making it an attractive therapeutic target. We discovered a novel small-molecule inhibitor, ABBV-MALT1, that potently shuts down B-cell signaling selectively in ABC-DLBCL preclinical models leading to potent cell growth and xenograft inhibition. We also identified a rational combination partner for ABBV-MALT1 in the BCL2 inhibitor, venetoclax, which when combined significantly synergizes to elicit deep and durable responses in preclinical models. This work highlights the potential of ABBV-MALT1 monotherapy and combination with venetoclax as effective treatment options for patients with ABC-DLBCL.