bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeled estimates of HIV-serodifferent couples in tuberculosis-affected households in four sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Zhang Meixin , Tseng Ashley S. , Anguzu Godwin , Barnabas Ruanne V. , Davis J. Lucian , Mujugira Andrew , Flaxman Abraham D. , Ross Jennifer M.
Published: May 2024

Household-based tuberculosis (TB) contact evaluation may be an efficient strategy to reach people who could benefit from oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) because of the epidemiological links between HIV and TB. This study estimated the number of HIV serodifferent couples in TB-affected households and potential HIV acquisitions averted through their PrEP use in 4 TB-HIV high-burden countries. We conducted a model-based analysis set in Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda using parameters from population-based household surveys, systematic literature review and meta-analyses, and estimates from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019. We parameterized the nonlinear relationship between the proportion of serodifferent couples among people living with HIV and population-level HIV prevalence using Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. We integrated all parameters in a mathematical model and propagated uncertainty using a Monte Carlo approach. We estimated the HIV prevalence among adults aged 15–49 living in TB-affected households to be higher than in the general population in all 4 countries. The proportion of serodifferent couples among all couples in TB-affected households was also higher than in the general population (South Africa: 20.7% vs. 15.7%, Kenya: 15.7% vs. 5.7%, Uganda: 14.5% vs. 6.0%, Ethiopia: 4.1% vs. 0.8%). We estimated that up to 1,799 (95% UI: 1,256–2,341) HIV acquisitions in South Africa could be prevented annually by PrEP use in serodifferent couples in TB-affected households, 918 (95% UI: 409–1,450) in Kenya, 686 (95% UI: 505–871) in Uganda, and 408 (95% UI: 298–522) in Ethiopia. As couples in TB-affected households are more likely to be serodifferent than couples in the general population, offering PrEP during household TB contact evaluation may prevent a substantial number of HIV acquisitions.
Prevalence, severity and impacts of breathlessness in Indian adults: An exploratory, nationally representative, cross-sectional online survey
Authors: Kochovska Slavica , Iyer Rajam , Chang Sungwon , Ferreira Diana , Brunelli Vanessa N. , Kinchin Irina , Eckert Danny J. , Clark Joseph , Sandberg Jacob , Ekström Magnus , Currow David , Rajan Sujeet
Published: May 2024

There are no known estimates of the prevalence, severity and impacts from breathlessness in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to explore the prevalence, severity, self-attributed underlying conditions and impacts of breathlessness limiting exertion in community-dwelling adults in India. This exploratory, population-based online survey recruited a pre-planned sample of 3,000 adult respondents stratified by age, sex and rurality (quotas as per the 2011 Indian National Census). Measures included: demographics; breathlessness limiting exertion (modified Medical Research [mMRC] scale); health-related quality of life (EQ-5D-5L); and disability (World Health Organisation’s Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 12-item questionnaire [WHODAS-12]). Respondents (n = 3,046) had a mean age of 38 years (SD 15); 57% were male, 59% lived in rural areas and 33% had completed 12th grade. Breathlessness limiting exertion (mMRC ≥1) was reported by 44%, mostly attributed to poor nutrition (28%), lung conditions excluding tuberculosis (17%) or anaemia (13%). Compared to those without breathlessness, a higher proportion of people with breathlessness (mMRC ≥1) reported problems across all EQ-5D-5L dimensions. Most people reporting breathlessness (81%) indicated the symptom had adversely affected their normal activities. Disability scores (WHODAS-12 total and individual domains) increased as breathlessness worsened. To conclude, in India, conservative estimates indicate 626 million people live with breathlessness of whom 52 million people live with severe breathlessness. The symptom is associated with poorer health-related quality of life and marked disability, including reduced ability to perform daily activities.
COVID-19 vaccination uptake among healthcare workers in Ghana: A comprehensive analysis of knowledge, attitude, perceived vaccine effectiveness, and health belief model constructs
Authors: Mbele Whiteson , Dako-Gyeke Phyllis , Frans Andreas Ndapewa
Published: May 2024

The novel Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) caused devastating effects globally, and healthcare workers were among the most affected by the pandemic. Despite healthcare workers being prioritized in COVID-19 vaccination globally and in Ghana, hesitancy to receive the vaccines resulted in delayed control of the pandemic. In Ghana, healthcare workers had a vaccine acceptance of 39.3% before the vaccine rollout. Consequently, this study assessed the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination and associated factors among healthcare workers in Ghana in the post-vaccine roll-out period. This was an analytical cross-sectional study that used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data on COVID-19 vaccination uptake and influencing factors. 256 healthcare workers were selected in Ayawaso West Municipality of Ghana using a stratified random sampling approach. Descriptive statistics were used to examine socio-demographic factors and Likert scale responses. Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression were performed using IBM SPSS version 22 to identify predictors of vaccine uptake and a statistical significance was declared at p<0.05. More than three-fourths of participants 220 (85.9%) had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccination, while 36 (14.9%) were hesitant. More than half 139 (54.3%) had adequate knowledge about COVID-19 vaccination and the majority 188 (73.4%) had positive perceptions about its effectiveness. Moreover, 218 (85.2%) of HCWs had a positive attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination. Positive attitude towards COVID-19 vaccination (AOR = 4.3; 95% CI: 1.4, 13.0) and high cues to action (AOR = 5.7; 95% CI: 2.2, 14.8) were the factors that significantly predicted uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare workers. COVID-19 vaccination among HCWs in Ghana is promising. However, hesitancy to receive the vaccination among a significant proportion of HCWs raises concerns. To ensure vaccination of all healthcare workers, interventions to promote vaccination should target key determinants of vaccination uptake, such as attitude towards the vaccination and cues to action.
ICT diffusion and financial development: Comparing high, middle, and low-income countries
Authors: Li Ying , Li XiaoGuang , Ahmad Haseeb
Published: May 2024

Given the importance of ICT diffusion in the development of the financial sector, this analysis is an effort to analyze the transmission channels between the two in high-income and middle and low-income economies over 2001–2019. We have used three variables, including the ICT index, individuals using the internet, and mobile subscribers, to represent ICT and three indices, including the financial development index, financial institution index, and financial market index, to make our results reliable and robust. We utilized a GMM method for conducting the empirical analysis. Generally, our results imply that ICT diffusion positively impacts financial development in high-income economies and negatively impacts middle and low-income economies. Our findings suggest that middle- and low-income-economy policymakers should follow the footprint of the high-income economies and increase the role of ICT in the financial sector for its development.
Study on the mesomechanical behavior and damage process of coal samples with hole defects under eccentric loading
Authors: Ge Lina , Yi Fu , Wang Tao
Published: May 2024

When using end shield shearer to recover end slope coal resources, the stability of the overlying rock slope of the end slope is controlled by leaving coal pillars. Due to the influence of the self weight of the overlying rock layer, the coal pillar will be subjected to eccentric loads, and the influence of eccentric loads needs to be considered in the design of the coal pillar size. With the help of PFC discrete element software, uniaxial compression tests were carried out on coal sample containing hole defects under different degrees of eccentric loads based on the calibration of micro mechanical parameters. The results show that the peak stress, cracking stress and dilatancy stress of coal sample decrease in a linear function law with the increase of load eccentricity coefficient. The evolution of the number of microscopic cracks during uniaxial compression under eccentric load can be divided into four stages: the calm stage before crack initiation I, the stable propagation stage II, the unstable propagation and penetration stage III, and the post failure stage IV. The distribution of macroscopic cracks is jointly influenced by the relative position of the loading area and the hole defect. When the hole defect is within the loading area, the hole plays a guiding role in the evolution of coal sample cracks, and the macroscopic crack runs through the edge of the loading area and the hole. When the hole defect is located outside the loading zone, the degree of eccentric load is large, weakening the guiding effect of the hole defect on the crack, and the macroscopic crack does not pass through the hole defect.
Perceptions and behaviors of healthcare providers towards rehabilitation support to children with severe malaria-related disability in Ethiopia: A qualitative descriptive study using the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Engeda Eshetu Haileselassie , Aldersey Heather M. , Davison Colleen M. , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu , Fayed Nora
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Severe malaria often results in childhood disability. The prevalence of disability related to severe malaria is significant and is estimated to affect up to 53% of severe malaria survivors. In contrast, information is sparse about how healthcare providers in Africa think about or provide rehabilitation support in acute and post-acute phases respectively. Understanding the perceptions and behaviors of healthcare providers treating malaria could help inform malaria-related disability research, policy, and practice, aimed at the providers themselves. This study explored the perceptions and behaviors of healthcare providers towards rehabilitation for children with severe malaria-related disability. The Theoretical Domains Framework was used to describe the findings relative to wider literature on health provider behavior change.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach was used to interview thirteen healthcare providers recruited purposively based on their clinical professions, roles, and settings. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis. We decided on the most prominent theoretical domains considering the frequency of specific perceptions and behaviors across the participants, the frequency of perceptions and behaviors in each domain, and evidence of strong perceptions and behaviors.

Results

Nine out of fourteen theoretical domains were identified. These domains were: Beliefs about consequences, environmental context and resources, goals, knowledge, skills, optimism, reinforcement, social influences, and social or professional role and identity. Healthcare providers’ beliefs about their roles in screening for disability or referring to rehabilitation were less positive.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest the need for interventions to support healthcare providers in acute phases (prevention and control of severe malaria) and post-acute phases (disability screening, referral, and rehabilitation care). Recommended interventions should focus on developing clinical guidelines, training clinicians, addressing institutional factors, and modifying external social influences such as socio-cultural factors.
Performance of different nebulizers in clinical use for Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC)
Authors: Göhler Daniel , Oelschlägel Kathrin , Ouaissi Mehdi , Giger-Pabst Urs
Published: May 2024

Objective

Technical ex-vivo comparison of commercial nebulizer nozzles used for Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (PIPAC).

Methods

The performance of four different commercial nebulizer nozzles (Nebulizer; HurriChemTM; MCR-4 TOPOL®; QuattroJet) was analysed concerning: i) technical design and principle of operation, ii) operational pressure as function of the liquid flow rate, iii) droplet size distribution via laser diffraction spectrometry, iv) spray cone angle, spray cone form as well as horizontal drug deposition by image-metric analyses and v) chemical resistance via exposing to a cytostatic solution and chemical composition by means of spark optical emission spectral analysis.

Results

The Nebulizer shows quasi an identical technical design and thus also a similar performance (e.g., mass median droplet size of 29 μm) as the original PIPAC nozzles (MIP/ CapnoPen). All other nozzles show more or less a performance deviation to the original PIPAC nozzles. The HurriChemTM has a similar design and principle of operation as the Nebulizer, but provides a finer aerosol (22 μm). The principle of operation of MCR-4 TOPOL® and QuattroJet differ significantly from that of the original PIPAC nozzle technology. The MCR-4 TOPOL® offers a hollow spray cone with significantly larger droplets (50 μm) than the original PIPAC nozzles. The QuattroJet generates an aerosol (22 μm) similar to that of the HurriChemTM but with improved spatial drug distribution.

Conclusion

The availability of new PIPAC nozzles is encouraging but can also have a negative impact if their performance and efficacy is unknown. It is recommended that PIPAC nozzles that deviate from the current standard should be subject to bioequivalence testing and implementation in accordance with the IDEAL-D framework prior to routine clinical use.
The relationship between anaemia and the use of treated bed nets among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Ghana
Authors: Ansah Richard Kwame , Tackie Sampson , Twum Rhodaline Abena , Tawiah Kassim , Boadi Richard Kena , Addo Dorcas Attuabea , Effah-Poku Samuel , Zigli David Delali
Published: May 2024

Studies have indicated that the risk of malaria, particularly its association with anaemia in pregnant women, increases when treated bed nets are not used. This paper utilizes a statistical mechanical model to investigate whether there is a statistical relationship between the presence or absence of anaemia in pregnant and non-pregnant women and their decision to sleep under treated bed nets. Data from the Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey (GMIS), which includes both rural and urban malaria-endemic areas in Ghana, were employed in this study. A total of 2,434 women, comprising 215 pregnant and 2,219 non-pregnant participants, were involved. Among these, 4.76% of the pregnant and anaemic women and 45.89% of the non-pregnant and anaemic women slept under treated bed nets, while 0.86% of the pregnant and anaemic and 6.82% of the non-pregnant and anaemic women did not. The findings revealed that, in the absence of social interaction, non-anaemic pregnant women have a lower prevalence of choosing to use bed nets compared to their anaemic counterparts. Additionally, non-pregnant anaemic women showed a positive private incentive (30.87%) to use treated bed nets, implying a positive correlation between anaemia and the choice to sleep in a treated bed net. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that both pregnancy and anaemia status have a relationship with the use of treated bed nets in Ghana, especially when social interactions are considered. The interaction strength between non-pregnant and anaemic women interacting with each other shows a negative estimate (-1.49%), implying that there is no rewarding effect from imitation. These insights are crucial for malaria prevention and control programs, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to enhance the use of treated bed nets among both pregnant and non-pregnant women in Ghana’s malaria-endemic regions.
Investigating wave solutions and impact of nonlinearity: Comprehensive study of the KP-BBM model with bifurcation analysis
Authors: Rayhanul Islam S. M. , Khan Kamruzzaman
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we investigate the (2+1)-dimensional Kadomtsev-Petviashvili-Benjamin-Bona Mahony equation using two effective methods: the unified scheme and the advanced auxiliary equation scheme, aiming to derive precise wave solutions. These solutions are expressed as combinations of trigonometric, rational, hyperbolic, and exponential functions. Visual representations, including three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) combined charts, are provided for some of these solutions. The influence of the nonlinear parameter p on the wave type is thoroughly examined through diverse figures, illustrating the profound impact of nonlinearity. Additionally, we briefly investigate the Hamiltonian function and the stability of the model using a planar dynamical system approach. This involves examining trajectories, isoclines, and nullclines to illustrate stable solution paths for the wave variables. Numerical results demonstrate that these methods are reliable, straightforward, and potent tools for analyzing various nonlinear evolution equations found in physics, applied mathematics, and engineering.
Validation of the translated Negative Physical Self Scale in a sample of Asian women living in Canada
Authors: Amin Shahrazad , Ly May , Misener Kaylee , Brown Natalie , Libben Maya
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Body dissatisfaction is often linked to the internalization of Western beauty standards. Existing measures of body dissatisfaction, developed in Western societies, may fail to capture complex variations across ethnicities and cultures. The Negative Physical Self Scale (NPSS) assesses cognitive, affective, perceptual, and behavioural facets of body dissatisfaction. While unique in its consideration of Chinese ideals of body image, the NPSS has recently been translated and validated in a North American sample. The English-translated version of the NPSS has the potential to be an appropriate body dissatisfaction assessment tool for Asian women living in North America. The current study aims to validate the NPSS in an Asian female population living in Canada.

Methods

A sample of 899 undergraduate women residing in Canada with self-identified Asian ethnicity completed an online survey consisting of the NPSS and other measures of body dissatisfaction.

Results

An initial confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the four-factor structure of the NPSS, previously suggested in a primarily non-Asian North American sample, was a poor fit for the data. A second-order multidimensional model, based on a model proposed during the original development of the NPSS in a Chinese sample, indicated good fit once items were removed due to loadings < .60. High internal consistency between subscales and strong convergent validity with other measures were demonstrated. Notably, the NPSS Body Concern subscale demonstrated high convergence with other popular measures of body dissatisfaction and has the potential for use as a brief measure of body dissatisfaction among North American Asian females in clinical and research settings.

Conclusions

The NPSS provides a valid assessment of body dissatisfaction among a sample of Asian women living in Canada, a specific subpopulation that has not been previously investigated. The findings highlight the importance of developing culturally sensitive measures of body dissatisfaction for differing ethnic and cultural groups.
Effects of paediatric schistosomiasis control programmes in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Authors: Vere Maryline , ten Ham-Baloyi Wilma , Melariri Paula Ezinne
Published: May 2024

Preventive chemotherapy by mass drug administration is globally recommended as the primary method of reaching the elimination of schistosomiasis, especially in the high risk-paediatric population. This systematic review provides a summary of the effects of paediatric schistosomiasis control programs on eliminating schistosomiasis in sub-Saharan Africa. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, EBSCOhost, and other databases to obtain studies regarding the effects of paediatric schistosomiasis control programmes in sub-Saharan Africa. 3455 studies were screened for eligibility, included articles reported on both paediatrics control programmes and schistosomiasis, and articles were excluded when they did not report on schistosomiasis control programmes in paediatrics exclusively. 40 selected studies were critically appraised using the JBI critical appraisal tools for relevance and 30 studies were included in the study. An in-depth quantitative descriptive analysis was conducted, and a comprehensive narrative summary explained the results within the scope of the review questions. The results show that despite preventive chemotherapy lowering schistosomiasis prevalence, chances of re-infection are high in endemic areas. Preventive chemotherapy without complementary interventions including safe water provision and proper sanitation, snail control and health education on the aetiology of schistosomiasis, transmission pattern and control practices might not eliminate schistosomiasis.
Digital descriptors sharpen classical descriptors, for improving genebank accession management: A case study on Arachis spp. and Phaseolus spp.
Authors: Conejo-Rodríguez Diego Felipe , Gonzalez-Guzman Juan José , Ramirez-Gil Joaquín Guillermo , Wenzl Peter , Urban Milan Oldřich
Published: May 2024

High-throughput phenotyping brings new opportunities for detailed genebank accessions characterization based on image-processing techniques and data analysis using machine learning algorithms. Our work proposes to improve the characterization processes of bean and peanut accessions in the CIAT genebank through the identification of phenomic descriptors comparable to classical descriptors including methodology integration into the genebank workflow. To cope with these goals morphometrics and colorimetry traits of 14 bean and 16 forage peanut accessions were determined and compared to the classical International Board for Plant Genetic Resources (IBPGR) descriptors. Descriptors discriminating most accessions were identified using a random forest algorithm. The most-valuable classification descriptors for peanuts were 100-seed weight and days to flowering, and for beans, days to flowering and primary seed color. The combination of phenomic and classical descriptors increased the accuracy of the classification of Phaseolus and Arachis accessions. Functional diversity indices are recommended to genebank curators to evaluate phenotypic variability to identify accessions with unique traits or identify accessions that represent the greatest phenotypic variation of the species (functional agrobiodiversity collections). The artificial intelligence algorithms are capable of characterizing accessions which reduces costs generated by additional phenotyping. Even though deep analysis of data requires new skills, associating genetic, morphological and ecogeographic diversity is giving us an opportunity to establish unique functional agrobiodiversity collections with new potential traits.
Sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and treatment patterns of endometrial cancer cases in Puerto Rico during the period 2009 to 2015: A retrospective study
Authors: Pagán Santana Yisel , Castañeda Ávila Maira , Ríos Motta Ruth , Ortiz Ortiz Karen J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Over the past decades, the rising incidence rates of endometrial cancer have made it a significant public health concern for women worldwide. Treatment strategies for endometrial cancer vary based on several factors such as stage, histology, the patient’s overall health, and preferences. However, limited amount of research on treatment patterns and potential correlations with sociodemographic characteristics among Hispanics is available. This study analyzes the treatment patterns for patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer in Puerto Rico.

Methods

A secondary database analysis was performed on endometrial cancer cases reported to the Puerto Rico Central Cancer Registry-Health Insurance Linkage Database from 2009 to 2015 (n = 2,488). The study population’s sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were described, along with an overview of the therapy options provided to patients receiving care on the island. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association of sociodemographic/clinical characteristics with treatment patterns stratified by risk of recurrence.

Results

In our cohort, most patients were insured through Medicaid and had a median age of 60 years. Almost 90% of patients received surgery as the first course of treatment. Surgery alone was the most common treatment for low-risk patients (80.2%). High-risk patients were more likely to receive surgery with radiotherapy and chemotherapy (24.4%). Patients with Medicare insurance were five times (HR: 4.84; 95% CI: 2.45–9.58; p < 0.001) more likely to receive surgery when compared with patients insured with Medicaid. In contrast, those with private insurance were twice as likely to receive surgery (HR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.40–4.04; p = 0.001) when compared to those with Medicaid.

Conclusion

These findings provide insight into the treatment patterns for endometrial cancer in Puerto Rico and highlight the importance of considering factors such as disease risk when making treatment decisions. Addressing these gaps in treatment patterns can contribute to effective management of endometrial cancer.
A patient-centered ‘test-drive’ strategy for ankle-foot orthosis prescription: Protocol for a randomized participant-blinded trial
Authors: Shuman Benjamin R. , Hendershot Brad D. , Morgenroth David C. , Russell Esposito Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Background

Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) are commonly used to overcome mobility limitations related to lower limb musculoskeletal injury. Despite a multitude of AFOs to choose from, there is scant evidence to guide AFO prescription and limited opportunities for AFO users to provide experiential input during the process. To address these limitations in the current prescription process, this study evaluates a novel, user-centered and personalized ‘test-drive’ strategy using a robotic exoskeleton (‘AFO emulator’) to emulate commercial AFO mechanical properties (i.e., stiffness). The study will determine if brief, in-lab trials (with emulated or actual AFOs) can predict longer term preference, satisfaction, and mobility outcomes after community trials (with the actual AFOs). Secondarily, it will compare the in-lab experience of walking between actual vs. emulated AFOs.

Methods and analysis

In this participant-blinded, randomized crossover study we will recruit up to fifty-eight individuals with lower limb musculoskeletal injuries who currently use an AFO. Participants will walk on a treadmill with three actual AFOs and corresponding emulated AFOs for the "in-lab” assessments. For the community trial assessment, participants will wear each of the actual AFOs for a two-week period during activities of daily living. Performance-based and user-reported measures of preference and mobility will be compared between short- and long-term trials (i.e., in-lab vs. two-week community trials), and between in-lab trials (emulated vs. actual AFOs).

Trial registration

The study was prospectively registered at www.clininicaltrials.gov (Clinical Trials Study ID: NCT06113159). Date: November 1st 2023. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06113159.
An assessment of turnaround times of infant Deoxyribonucleic acid–Polymerase Chain Reaction testing and the associated factors in Western Kenya: A mixed methods study
Authors: Omondi Maxwell Philip
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The HIV/AIDS continues being a significant global public health priority in the 21st century with social and economic consequences Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) occurs when an HIV-infected woman passes the virus to her infant and about 90% of these MTCT infections occurs in Africa where children and infants are still dying of HIV. Early definitive diagnosis using Deoxyribonucleic acid reaction of HIV infection in infants is critical to ensuring that HIV-infected infants receive appropriate and timely care and treatment to reduce HIV related morbidity and mortality.

Objective

To assess the Infant Deoxyribonucleic acid–Polymerase Chain Reaction (DNA-PCR) Turnaround Time (TAT) of dry blood spots and associated factors in Vihiga, Bungoma, Kakamega and Busia counties, in Kenya.

Method

A mixed methods study using a) retrospectively collected data from Ministry of Health Laboratory registers, Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) database from 28 health facilities and b) 9 key informant interviews with laboratory in-charges were conducted. A total of 2,879 HIV exposed babies’ data were abstracted from January 2012 to June 2013.

Results

The mean TAT from specimen collection and results received back at the facilities was 46.90 days, Vihiga county having the shortest mean duration at 33.7days and Kakamega county having the longest duration at 51.7days (p = 0.001). In addition, the mean transport time from specimen collection and receipt at Alupe Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) reference Laboratory was 16.50 days. Vihiga County had the shortest transport time at 13.01 days while Busia had the longest at 18.99 days (p = 0.001). Longer TAT was due to the batching of specimens at the peripheral health facilities and hubbing to the nearest referral hospitals.

Conclusion

The TAT for DNA-PCR specimen was 46.90 days with Vihiga County having the shortest TAT due to lack of specimen batching and hubbing.

Recommendation

Discourage specimen batching/hubbing and support point-of-care early infant diagnosis (EID) tests.
Application of concentrated growth factor in mandibular third molar extraction: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Hengxiao , Dong Jianyong , Wang Xiaoliang , Sun Xiaodong , Wang Jin
Published: May 2024

Objective

We will perform the systematic review to evaluate the effect of applying concentrated growth factor (CGF) on relieving postoperative complications and promoting wound healing following mandibular third molar extraction.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, China Biology Medicine Disc (CBM), and VIP Databases will be comprehensively searched up to May 31, 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the application of CGF after mandibular third molar extraction will be included. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO, and the registration ID was CRD42023463234. Two reviewers will conduct the literature search, eligible study selection, data extraction, and bias risk assessment (using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool). Data analysis will be performed with RevMan software (version 5.4).

Results

The results of this study will be available in a peer-reviewed journal.

Conclusion

Our study will provide scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of applying CGF in mandibular third molar extraction.
Developing technology policy in Africa
Authors: Clark Norman
Published: May 2024

This article suggests a revised perspective for technology policies in Africa, one that focuses more on the direct facilitation of economic production at domestic levels. Up until now there has been a strong tendency for public investment in science, technology and innovation (STI) to be confined to national science councils and higher education bodies with little direct impact on national production. The article argues that STI investment as conventionally understood needs to be supplemented by policies that stress facilitation of its use, an argument also made strongly by a recent World Bank publication and indirectly by UNCTAD in its recently published report on African development. This is likely to be especially important in small-scale and informal sectors and will certainly require support on the part of local and national governments (and aid related bodies). Hopefully we will then begin to enjoy a scenario in which the gross financial inequalities that have beset Africa for so long will begin to be modified to the ultimate benefit of all.
Comparison of the Clinical Efficacy of Anabolic Agents and Bisphosphonates in the Patients With Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Jeon Ikchan , Park Sung Bae , Moon Bong Ju , Choi Miyoung , Kuh Sung Uk , Kim Jongtae
Published: May 2024

Objective: We investigated the clinical efficacy of anabolic agents compared with bisphosphonates (BPs) for the incidence of new osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) and fracture healing of OVF in the patients with OVF via meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).Methods: Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched for published RCTs till December 2022. The RCTs that recruited participants with osteoporosis at high-/very high-risk of fracture (a history of osteoporotic vertebral or hip fracture) or fresh OVF were included in this study. We assessed the risk of bias on every included RCTs, estimated relative risk (RR) for the incidence of new OVF and fracture healing of OVF, and overall certainty of evidence. Meta-analyses were performed by Cochrane review manager (RevMan) ver. 5.3. Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 and GRADEpro/GDT were applied for evaluating methodological quality and overall certainty of evidence, respectively.Results: Five hundred eighteen studies were screened, and finally 6 eligible RCTs were included in the analysis. In the patients with prevalent OVF, anabolic agents significantly reduced the incidence of new OVF (teriparatide and romosozumab vs. alendronate and risedronate [RR, 0.57; 95% confidence interval, 0.45–0.71; p < 0.00001; high-certainty of evidence]; teriparatide vs. risedronate [RR, 0.50; 95% confidence interval, 0.37–0.68; p < 0.0001; high-certainty of evidence]). However, there was no evidence of teriparatide compared to alendronate in fracture healing of OVF (RR, 1.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.95–1.60; p = 0.12; low-certainty of evidence).Conclusion: In the patients with prevalent OVF, anabolic agents showed a significant superiority for preventing new OVF than BPs, with no significant evidence for promoting fracture healing of OVF. However, considering small number of RCTs in this study, additional studies with large-scale data are required to obtain more robust evidences.
Storytelling as a Pedagogic Method to Promote Cultural Humility at a Student-Run Free Clinic
Authors: Barnes Ryiah
Published: May 2024

**Abstract**

This study explores the efficacy of training programs aimed at promoting cultural humility and lifelong learning among healthcare professionals, focusing on the context of Avicenna Community Health Center, a free clinic serving uninsured or underinsured adults in Champaign, IL. Specifically, it investigates the impact of H.E.A.L.E.R.© training on student volunteers and the effectiveness of storytelling as a pedagogic approach in continuing education for healthcare professionals.

The H.E.A.L.E.R.© training, led by Drs. Michelle Mao and Terán-García, is a mandated program for Avicenna volunteers, comprising activities such as self-identity exploration and case studies. Additionally, the study examines the role of storytelling in engaging staff nurses in continuing education, citing evidence that storytelling is more effective than traditional methods in fostering positive attitudes toward professional development among nurses.

Through thematic analysis of interview data from 10 participants, several key themes emerge. Firstly, the training and clinical experiences encourage self-reflection and awareness of biases among volunteers. Secondly, effective communication, particularly with non-English-speaking populations, is emphasized, emphasizing the importance of avoiding assumptions and judgments. Thirdly, the clinic's holistic approach to healthcare, including case management and lifestyle medicine, underscores the commitment to equity and equality in patient care. Finally, storytelling emerges as a powerful tool for fostering understanding and trust among healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Recommendations for future trainings include diversifying continuing education opportunities on cultural humility and incorporating interactive activities like storytelling and implicit bias exercises. However, the study acknowledges limitations inherent in qualitative research methods, such as small sample size and potential biases in participant responses.

Looking ahead, the study suggests expanding H.E.A.L.E.R.© training to other student-run free clinics and programs serving underrepresented groups, with the aim of further promoting cultural humility and enhancing the quality of care provided to marginalized communities.
Severe Drug-Induced Liver Injury Due to Self-administration of the Veterinary Anthelmintic Medication, Fenbendazole
Authors: Thakurdesai Aishwarya , Rivera-Matos Lucia , Nagra Navroop , Busch Brandon , Mais Daniel D. , Cave Matthew C.
Published: May 2024

Fenbendazole is an anthelmintic agent approved for veterinary applications. Even though it is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for human use, such use appears to be increasing due to the popularization of fenbendazole's potential anticancer effects by social media. We describe the first case of histologically confirmed severe drug-induced liver injury, hepatocellular pattern, associated with the self-administration of fenbendazole in a 67-year-old woman who presented with 2 weeks of jaundice. Liver function tests normalized in 3 months after the cessation of fenbendazole.
The Evolution of Cinemas in Prague from the Second Half of the Twentieth Century: A Contemporary Perspective
Authors: Čivrná Tereza
Published: May 2024

The article approaches the situation of Prague cinemas in the second half of the 20th century from the end of the Second World War to the Velvet Revolution within the socio-historical background from the point of view of an architect and a cinephile. The entire text is arranged chronologically in four paragraphs reflecting the contemporary political and social situation. It approximates the post-war period full of ideological ideals, when the construction of a dense network of cinemas became a key element of national renewal, not only in large cities but also in the regions. The following decade brought a paradigmatic shift, when local single-screen cinemas gave way to large cultural houses with multifunctional use (film, theatre, gallery, restaurant, sports facilities, etc.). It deals with the socially relaxed sixties, reflecting the synergy of various artistic disciplines, thanks to which Czechoslovakia presented to the world new artistic disciplines based precisely on film projection – “polyekran” (polyscreen) and “laterna magika” (a combination of projection and performance with live actors). The imaginary culmination of the new wave period was the opening of the luxury cinema 64 U Hradeb, which is given more attention in the text below. Furthermore, the text outlines the situation of cinemas in large Prague housing estates and deals with Czech brutalism in the context of foreign architecture and with the only brutalist cinema still operating today – the Dlabačov cinema. The final part of this article gives a brief overview of the total number of cinemas established in this period in the territory of Prague and a comparison with other European metropolises with a similar socio-cultural background. The research has the ambition to understand and approach how to integrate valuable cinema buildings on the territory of Prague into the daily life of contemporary Prague residents through the investigation of the cinema phenomenon, and the development of cinematography and cinema architecture as such, from its inception to the present day. The general logical processing methods are historical and socio-cultural analysis, architectural and urban research including architectural drawings, photographic documentation and a study of the urban development of the appearance of individual cinemas, comparison and deduction.
An elastoplastic constitutive model of lunar soil simulant considering shear dilatancy and softening characteristics
Authors: Li Yunli , Wang Lugi , Li Jiawei , Wu Wenping
Published: May 2024

The study of the constitutive relationship of lunar soil is the key to a deep understanding of the mechanical properties of lunar soil and the subsequent construction of lunar bases. Previous models mostly focused on the strengthening behavior before the peak, while rarely reflected the post-peak softening and residual deformation stages during shear deformation. A new elastoplastic constitutive relation is derived with combining kinematic hardening model and initial shear stress, which effectively compensates for the shortcomings of existing constitutive models, and the validity of the model is verified by comparing with existed laboratory test results. The developed constitutive model not only effectively captures the shear dilatancy and softening characteristics of lunar soil simulant, but also requires fewer parameters to be easily determined by simple initial loading curves from direct shear tests, Furthermore, the influences of some key parameters on shear strength and softening behavior of lunar soil simulant can be easily obtained based on this constitutive model.
RESEARCH ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF LOW-TEMPERATURE-RESISTANT FAST-CURING STRUCTURAL ADHESIVE AND STEEL PLATE STRENGTHENING CONCRETE BEAM FLEXURAL TEST
Authors: Zhang Guanhua , Song Chengzhe , Han Xihang , Lu Bo
Published: May 2024

Steel plate strengthening method is a common, efficient, and mature reinforcement method that utilizes structural adhesive to bond steel plates with concrete components to work together. It takes advantage of the excellent tensile strength of steel plates to improve the mechanical properties of the original structure. However, epoxy-based structural adhesives are highly sensitive to the environment, and curing effect at low temperatures is a key issue. This study developed a low-temperature-resistant fast-curing structural adhesive (LTR-FCA) that can achieve rapid curing at low temperatures of -5 °C. The flexural performance of reinforced concrete beams strengthened with steel plates using LTR-FCA was compared with that using Normal Structural Adhesive (NSA). Experimental results indicated that LTR-FCA could rapidly cure at a low temperature of -5°C. Compared to NSA, which cures at room temperature, the use of LTR-FCA effectively delayed the debonding of the steel plates.
GEOTECHNICAL ANALYSIS AND REMEDIAL DESIGN OF A POTENTIALLY UNSTABLE CUTTING
Authors: Šiška Zdeněk
Published: May 2024

The article deals with the analysis of a potentially unstable cutting in weak rocks and a design of its remediation. It is described here the collection of information, its interpretation and stability analysis of the cutting, which focuses on deeper than just surface slip surfaces to assess the risk of slope movements with significant safety and economic impact. Based on the results of the evaluation, appropriate remediation measures are proposed.
Model Pembelajaran LOK-R Untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Literasi Digital
Authors: Effrisanti Evi
Published: May 2024

Tujuan – Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui manfaat model pembelajaran LOK-R dalam upaya mengintegrasikan pendidikan keterampilan literasi digital dalam pembelajaran.
Metode – Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kepustakaan yang didasarkan pada studi literatur terkait Model Pembelajaran LOK-R dalam meningkatkan kemampuan literasi digital siswa. Melalui pendekatan ini, peneliti mengumpulkan, mengkaji, dan menganalisis berbagai sumber literatur yang relevan, termasuk artikel jurnal, buku, laporan penelitian, dan sumber-sumber informasi terpercaya lainnya yang berhubungan dengan penerapan Model Pembelajaran LOK-R dalam meningkatkan kemampuan literasi digital siswa. Analisis data yang dilakukan adalah dengan teknik triangulasi dengan triangulasi sumber data sebagai uji keabsahan datanya.
Hasil – Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, disimpulkan bahwa status literasi digital pelajar Indonesia (rentang usia 13-22 tahun) masih berada pada level sedang, termasuk pelajar DIY, yang di antaranya terdapat pelajar madrasah. Begitu pula hasil tes PISA 2018 pada instrumen yang menggali kecakapan literasi digital, menunjukkan bahwa kemampuan literasi digital mininal baru dikuasai 45-70% pelajar Indonesia. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahwa model pembelajaran LOK-R dapat digunakan untuk mengintegrasikan pembelajaran kemampuan literasi digital minimal. Agar dapat menggunakan model pembelajaran LOK-R, guru perlu terlebih dulu menguasai cara menggunakan model pembelajaran tersebut dan menguasai kemampuan literasi digital dasar
Implementasi Proyek Karya Tulis Ilmiah Berbantuan LKPD Terstruktur: Peningkatan Kompetensi Literasi pada Kelas Khusus Olah Raga
Authors: Puspita Ida
Published: May 2024

Tujuan – Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengevaluasi efektivitas implementasi Proyek Karya Tulis Ilmiah sebagai bagian dari Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar dalam memperkuat profil pemuda Pancasila dan Rahmatan Lil Alamin, serta meningkatkan kompetensi literasi peserta didik di Kelas Khusus Olah Raga (KKO), MAN 2 Yogyakarta.
Metode – Metodologi penelitian ini berbasis deskriptif kualitatif, dilakukan pada semester gasal tahun pelajaran 2022/2023. Data dikumpulkan melalui teknik observasi, wawancara, dan analisis dokumen, kemudian dianalisis secara kualitatif.
Hasil – Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 100% peserta didik berhasil menyusun Karya Tulis Ilmiah (KTI) dengan bantuan Lembar Kerja Peserta Didik (LKPD) terstruktur. Ini menandakan keberhasilan dalam implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar dan penguatan kompetensi literasi. Penelitian ini memiliki implikasi signifikan dalam konteks pendidikan, khususnya dalam implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar dan penguatan kompetensi literasi, serta membuka akses untuk penelitian lebih lanjut. Keterbatasan dan rekomendasi untuk penelitian lebih lanjut juga dibahas.
Peningkatan Keterampilan Menulis Cerita Pendek Melalui Penggunaan Media Film pada Siswa MTsN 1 Yogyakarta
Authors: Sarifaini
Published: May 2024

Tujuan – Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatakan keterampilan menulis cerpen siswa pada mata pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia melalui media film pada siswa kelas IX E MTsN 1 Yogyakarta.
Metode – Jenis metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah penelitian tindakan kelas (PTK). Penelitian ini dilaksanakan dengan dua siklus. Pada setiap siklus terdapat empat tahapan, yaitu perencanaan, pelaksanaan (tindakan), observasi (pengamatan), dan refleksi. Subyek penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas IXE MTs Negeri 1 Yogyakarta yang terdiri dari 32 siswa. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui tes dan observasi. Analisis data menggunakan statistik deskriptif. nalisis data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan statistik deskriptif dengan prosentase ketuntasan belajar sebesar 80% atau inividu siswa mendapatkan hasil belajar sebesar minimal 77.
Hasil – Hasil dari diskusi penlitian menunjukkan partisipasi aktif siswa dan efektivitas metode pengajaran ini. Dalam hal pencapaian akademik, pemahaman siswa terhadap materi meningkat secara signifikan, dengan 95,95% siswa mencapai target KKM pada siklus kedua. Skor rata-rata adalah 74,77, menunjukkan peningkatan yang signifikan dalam penguasaan kosakata bahasa Indonesia oleh siswa. Implikasi dari penelitian ini mencakup potensi Media Photo Story sebagai alat pedagogis berharga dalam pendidikan bahasa Indonesia, yang dapat meningkatkan pengalaman kelas, retensi kosakata, dan kinerja akademik. Penelitian ini juga mendukung penggunaan teknologi dalam pembelajaran dan kebutuhan akan metode pengajaran inovatif. Secara keseluruhan, implementasi Media Photo Story dalam pendidikan bahasa Indonesia memiliki potensi untuk meningkatkan akuisisi kosakata dan kinerja akademik, berkontribusi pada literatur tentang strategi pengajaran efektif, dan menyoroti relevansi pendekatan berbasis visual dalam pendidikan kontemporer.