bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing Weak form Market Efficiency: A Study of Selected Indices of National Stock Exchange
Authors: Sharma Anil K. , Seth Neha
Published: July 2023

Informational efficiency of the Stock market is an important parameter to determine the effectiveness of a financial system, especially in the Indian context. The efficiency of Indian stock markets, especially the leading stock exchange of India – the National Stock Exchange (NSE), attracts the attention of researchers in view of recent instability in investment levels and the global financial turmoil. This paper therefore, attempts to seek evidence for the weak form efficient market hypothesis using the daily data for two stock indices of NSE i.e. S&P CNX Nifty and Nifty Junior from the National Stock Exchange for the period 1st January, 2000 to 31st December 2009. We have used Kolmogrov–Smirnov test and Run test which is a non-parametric test and a Unit Root Test, which is a parametric test to examine weak-form market efficiency
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana – Advocating Penetration in Indian Life Insurance Industry for Inclusive Growth: An Empirical Study
Authors: Shukla Upendra Nath
Published: July 2023

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is a step ahead towards increasing life insurance penetration and density in India for inclusive growth. This research paper is an attempt to understand the need for the scheme, customer’s perception about the scheme, association of customer’s perception with their demographics and to explore the buying stimuli. Survey of 400 people is conducted in the city of Lucknow during January to February’2016 through a well-structured questionnaire. Collected data is tabulated and analyzed. The results show that there has been a continuous decline in life insurance penetration. It is found that customer’s perception about the scheme varies significantly with their income and education level. Services of the insurance company and ease of claim settlement have been the first buying stimuli for the lower and middle-income group customers leading to increasing insurance penetration in Indian economy.
Role of Teacher’s Pedagogy and MOOC Awareness among Learners in MOOC Retention: A Survey Study
Authors: Jangra Dimpal
Published: July 2023

Massive open online course (MOOC) is a modern pedagogic technique in 21st century witnessing a huge demand among Indian students. To discern the effectiveness of this modern method, studies conducted in the past signify that only a small proportion of MOOC participants go on to complete their courses. And relatively a little awareness exists about the MOOC design and implementation factors which affect MOOC retention. Retention in MOOCs is considered carefully in the context of the non-retaining learner, now- completing population as well as people completing MOOC- with the learning experience best suited to their needs. It could be influenced by several factors such as MOOC-awareness among learners, teacher to Learner Interaction, Information Delivery Technology, Course fees, Inclusion of assignments, Employability and pedagogical role of a teacher who creates course content, course structure. The present study revolves on only two independent variables which are Teacher’s Pedagogical Roles and MOOC-awareness among learners considered as significant predictors of MOOC-retention. Here, a teacher means subject instructor involved in the development of Massive Open Online Course. This study comprises pre-MOOC and post-MOOC surveys of learners’ perception towards Massive open online course retention. The survey is based on response from316 participants including 104 MOOC-users and 212 non-MOOC users from higher educational institutions of Delhi and NCR. One of the goals of this study is to identify the co-relation between MOOC-awareness among learners and teachers’ pedagogical roles through a review of a representative survey. The second goal is to analyze the importance of the combination of Teachers’ Pedagogical Roles and MOOC- awareness among learners in the MOOC retention.
Converting Apprehensive Customers to Willing Customers: Building Trust in Online Shopping Arena
Authors: Gupta Rajan , . Pal Saibal K
Published: July 2023

This study focuses on knowing about the factors that can affect the trust levels of the consumers involved in online shopping. Trust has been identified as a prominent factor that ultimately leads to the transformation of the apprehensive customers into willing customers. The role of website design features and portal affiliation is tested regarding their impact in affecting the trusting beliefs of the customers. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was put to use to do the statistical testing on the data collected through students of tier III city of India. The results showed that the website design features have an important role to play in affecting the trusting beliefs of the people whereas portal affiliation didn’t have much of a role. The study implies that the website managers must focus on their design features if they want to gain the trust of their customers. The portal affiliation wouldn’t be fruitful in the case of a student at least. Better shoppers amongst students must be attracted towards portals through innovative designs and features.
Impact of Employee Motivation on Team Effectiveness in Service Industry of Uttarakhand: A Relationship Approach
Authors: Ansari K.R. , Bijalwan Pankaj
Published: July 2023

Different studies in the past have proven the fact that motivation increases overall performance i.e. qualitative as well as the quantitative performance of the employee in the organization. Effectiveness or success of employees enhances as a motivated employee does better work and value more whatever they believe. This study investigates the relationship between employee motivation and team effectiveness, especially in the service industry. The research is conducted to find how motivation impacts on the effectiveness of teamwork. To investigate the effect, researchers used descriptive analysis (correlation, regression, chi2) of quantitative and qualitative data gathered from primary and secondary sources of data collection for service industry (Educational Institutes, Insurance Company, and Banks).
Dynamic Relationship between Macroeconomic Variables and Stock Markets in India
Authors: Verma Ashutosh , Kumar C.V.R.S. Vijaya
Published: July 2023

The present study examines the dynamic relationship between the various macroeconomic variables and the Indian stock markets. The macroeconomic variables included for analysis are gold, interest rate, oil prices, money supply (M3) and exchange rate while the BSE Sensex has been taken as a proxy of the stock prices performance. Monthly values of the variables and the index have been taken from April 2001 to July 2016. The dynamic relationship has been examined by applying the Johansen’s cointegration test and the vector error correction model. The findings indicate that all the variables except oil prices have a significant long-term relationship with the stock prices. In the short run, the adjustment of stock prices to revert to equilibrium is quite slow, and the stock markets do not react in a significant way to get back to equilibrium.
Multiple breath washout and oscillometry after allogenic HSCT: a scoping review
Authors: Sonneveld Nicole , Rayment Jonathan H. , Usemann Jakob , Nielsen Kim G. , Robinson Paul D.
Published: July 2023

Pulmonary chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) is a substantial cause of pulmonary morbidity and mortality post-haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Current spirometry-based monitoring strategies have significant limitations. Understanding the utility of novel peripheral airway function tests – multiple breath washout (MBW) and oscillometry – is critical in efforts to improve detection, facilitate earlier intervention and improve outcomes. In this scoping review, we identified 17 studies investigating MBW or oscillometry, or both, after allogenic HSCT. Despite small study numbers limiting the ability to draw firm conclusions, several themes were evident. Detectable peripheral airway abnormality in MBW occurred in a substantial proportion prior to HSCT. MBW indices post-HSCT were more frequently abnormal than spirometry when reporting group data and among those with extrapulmonary cGVHD and pulmonary cGVHD. Changes in MBW indices over time may be more indicative of pulmonary complications than absolute values at any given time point. Oscillometry indices were often normal at baseline, but more frequently abnormal in those who developed pulmonary cGVHD. Pooling currently available individual participant data across these studies may improve our ability to formally compare their respective sensitivity and specificity at specific time points and assess the trajectory of MBW and oscillometry indices over time.
Optogenetic cortical spreading depolarization induces headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses some prolonged in familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 mice
Authors: Dehghani Anisa , Schenke Maarten , van Heiningen Sandra H. , Karatas Hulya , Tolner Else A. , van den Maagdenberg Arn M. J. M.
Published: July 2023

Background

Cortical spreading depolarization (CSD), the neurophysiological correlate of the migraine aura, can activate trigeminal pain pathways, but the neurobiological mechanisms and behavioural consequences remain unclear. Here we investigated effects of optogenetically-induced CSDs on headache-related behaviour and neuroinflammatory responses in transgenic mice carrying a familial hemiplegic migraine type 1 (FHM1) mutation.

Methods

CSD events (3 in total) were evoked in a minimally invasive manner by optogenetic stimulation through the intact skull in freely behaving wildtype (WT) and FHM1 mutant mice. Related behaviours were analysed using mouse grimace scale (MGS) scoring, head grooming, and nest building behaviour. Neuroinflammatory changes were investigated by assessing HMGB1 release with immunohistochemistry and by pre-treating mice with a selective Pannexin-1 channel inhibitor.

Results

In both WT and FHM1 mutant mice, CSDs induced headache-related behaviour, as evidenced by increased MGS scores and the occurrence of oculotemporal strokes, at 30 min. Mice of both genotypes also showed decreased nest building behaviour after CSD. Whereas in WT mice MGS scores had normalized at 24 h after CSD, in FHM1 mutant mice scores were normalized only at 48 h. Of note, oculotemporal stroke behaviour already normalized 5 h after CSD, whereas nest building behaviour remained impaired at 72 h; no genotype differences were observed for either readout. Nuclear HMGB1 release in the cortex of FHM1 mutant mice, at 30 min after CSD, was increased bilaterally in both WT and FHM1 mutant mice, albeit that contralateral release was more pronounced in the mutant mice. Only in FHM1 mutant mice, contralateral release remained higher at 24 h after CSD, but at 48 h had returned to abnormal, elevated, baseline values, when compared to WT mice. Blocking Panx1 channels by TAT-Panx308 inhibited CSD-induced headache related behaviour and HMGB1 release.

Conclusions

CSDs, induced in a minimally invasive manner by optogenetics, investigated in freely behaving mice, cause various migraine relevant behavioural and neuroinflammatory phenotypes that are more pronounced and longer-lasting in FHM1 mutant compared to WT mice. Prevention of CSD-related neuroinflammatory changes may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of migraine.
Prevalence and knowledge of modifiable cardiovascular diseases risk factors among vulnerable population in Central Tanzania
Authors: Gibore Nyasiro Sophia , Munyogwa Mariam John , Ng’weshemi Secilia Kapalata , Gesase Ainory Peter
Published: July 2023

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the global public health problem which has been associated with increasing prevalence of modifiable CVDs risk factors. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and knowledge of modifiable CVDs risk factors among vulnerable population of Central Tanzania.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 749 participants were interviewed. The socio-demographic information and modifiable CVDs risk factors (behavioral and biological) were measured using a modified World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach for chronic disease risk factor surveillance. Knowledge of modifiable CVDs risk factors was measured by comprehensive heart disease knowledge questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the knowledge and prevalence of modifiable CVDs risk factors. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with adequate knowledge of CVDs risk factors.

Results

The prevalence of béhavioral risk factors were; current smokers and alcohol consumers were 4.4% and 18.0% respectively, use of raw salt was 43.7%, consumption of fruit/vegetables < 5 days per week was 56.9%. The prevalence of Biological CVDs risk factors was as follows: Overall, 63.5% (33.3% overweight and 29.9% obese) were overweight or obese, 4.5% were diabetic and 43.4% were hypertensive. Only 35.4% of participants had adequate knowledge of CVDs risk factors. Being a male (AOR = 1.44, 95%CI = 1.01–2.06, p < .05), having primary education (AOR = 6.43, 95%CI = 2.39–17.36, p < .0001), being employed (AOR = 1.59, 95%CI = 1.00-2.52, p < .05), ever checked blood pressure (AOR = 0.59, 95%CI = 0.42–0.84, p < .001), family history of hypertension (AOR = 0.38, 95%CI = 0.25–0.57, p < .0001) determined adequate knowledge of CVDs risk factors.

Conclusions

This study has revealed a high prevalence of modifiable CVDs risk factors and low knowledge of CVDs risk factors. Community health promotion interventions to increase population knowledge of CVDs risk factors are recommended for the efficacious reduction of CVDs in the country.
Impact of randomized blinded rechecking program on the performance of the AFB Microscopy Laboratory Network in Uganda: a decadal retrospective study
Authors: Nsawotebba Andrew , Ibanda Ivan , Mujuni Dennis , Nabadda Susan , Nadunga Diana , Kabugo Joel , Adam Isa , Wekiya Enock , Nyombi Abdunoor , Nsubuga Richard , Ademun Patrick , Musisi Kenneth , Kangave Fredrick , Joloba Moses
Published: July 2023

Background

Smear microscopy has remained the initial diagnostic test for presumptive tuberculosis (TB) patients in health facilities without the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended rapid diagnostic tools. In the Uganda TB laboratory network, the technique remains the only tool to monitor response to treatment among drug susceptible TB patients, with the country currently having over 1,600 microscopy TB testing units. It has been evidenced that acid-fast bacilli (AFB) microscopy’s yield highly depends on the staining technique and reading ability of the laboratory personnel. For the quality of TB testing in the country, the TB control program set up a Randomized Blinded Rechecking (RBRC) program in 2008 to monitor the testing performance of laboratories to continuously improve the reliability and efficiency of results. This is the first study to determine the effectiveness and impact of the RBRC program on the performance of the participating laboratories in Uganda.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study based on a record review of the RBRC’s annual results compilations between January 2008 and December 2017.

Results

Between January 2008 and December 2017, a total of 265,523 smears were re-checked during the RBRC program. The number of enrolled laboratories in the RBRC program rose from 660 to 2008 to 1,406 in 2017. The RBRC program resulted in a statistically significant reduction in microscopy errors, with false positives decreasing from 12.8% to 2008 to 7.6% in 2017, false positive errors decreasing from 10 to 6.3%, false negative errors decreasing from 2.9 to 0.7%, quantification errors decreasing from 6.0 to 1.8%, and the overall sensitivity of smear microscopy compared to the controllers increased with statistical significance from 93 to 97%.

Conclusion

The study reveals an overall significant error reduction and an improved sensitivity of smear microscopy upon continuous implementation of the RBRC program in an AFB microscopy TB laboratory network. Implementation of a RBRC program is crucial and essential to maintaining a reliable TB laboratory service that can facilitate accurate diagnosis and offset the disadvantages of using smear microscopy.
Cystoid macular edema associated with omidenepag isopropyl in a phakic eye with an implantable collamer lens: a case report
Authors: Bae Byung-Jin , Kang Eun Min , Lee Sang Yeop
Published: July 2023

Background

Cystoid macular edema is a known complication of omidenepag isopropyl usage. Omidenepag isopropyl is a selective prostanoid EP2 receptor agonist, and its association with macular edema has mainly been identified in pseudophakic eyes. Herein, we report a case of cystoid macular edema caused by omidenepag isopropyl use in a phakic eye with an implantable collamer lens.

Case presentation

A 38-year-old woman was diagnosed with left eye glaucoma and prescribed omidenepag isopropyl. She had undergone bilateral implantation of implantable collamer lenses approximately 12 years prior to the glaucoma diagnosis. After 9 months of using omidenepag isopropyl, she presented with blurred vision in the left eye; swept source optical coherence tomography revealed cystoid macular edema in this eye. Omidenepag isopropyl usage was discontinued, and bromfenac sodium hydrate was administered twice daily instead. After 2 months, the patient’s visual discomfort was completely ameliorated. Additionally, an optical coherence tomography examination confirmed that the macula had normalized.

Conclusions

We report a case of cystoid macular edema development after omidenepag isopropyl use in a patient with glaucoma who had undergone bilateral implantable collamer lens implantation. This case shows that the possibility of cystoid macular edema occurrence should be considered when omidenepag isopropyl is used, even in phakic eyes, after the insertion of implantable collamer lenses.
Treatment and outcome of IgA nephropathy in children from one single center experience
Authors: Mao Youying , Zhou Wei , Zhou Zhengyu , Zhang Chenxing , Shen Jiayao , Yin Lei
Published: July 2023

Background

There is no standard recommendation for IgA nephropathy treatment in children.

Methods

This is a retrospective study. From 2012 to 2020, newly diagnosed primary IgAN followed up for at least 1 year were enrolled. The correlation of MESTC scores and clinical index including proteinuria, gross hematuria and renal dysfunction was analyzed. Treatment and clinical response of 6 month, 1year and 3 year at follow up were also analyzed. Complete renal remission was calculated with Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results

The median follow up was 36 months, from 12 months to 87months in 40 IgAN children. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) was applied to all patients. 30% received ACEI alone; 15% received glucocorticoids; 37.5% received glucocorticoids plus cyclophosphamide, 17.5% received glucocorticoids plus mycophenolate mofetil. Individuals with diffuse mesangial hypercellularity (M1) were more likely to have nephrotic range proteinuria compared to patients with M0 (80% vs. 20%, P < 0.01). Complete renal remission at 6-month, 1-year and 3-year follow up is 50.25%, 70% and 87.5% respectively. Five-year complete renal remission calculated by Kaplan-Meier analysis is 58.4%. Although without significant difference, there is trend of better survival with complete renal remission in group of nephrotic range proteinuria onset. There is no severe adverse effect.

Conclusion

This study supports the use of glucocorticoids plus immunosuppressive in addition to ACEI in IgA nephrology pediatric patients with proteinuria. We suggest proactive immunosuppressive treatment in IgA nephropathy in children. This is from a single center in China as may not same results in other population.
Sociodemographic, mental health, and physical health factors associated with participation within re-contactable mental health cohorts: an investigation of the GLAD Study
Authors: Bright Steven J. , Hübel Christopher , Young Katherine S. , Bristow Shannon , Peel Alicia J. , Rayner Christopher , Mundy Jessica , Palmos Alish B. , Purves Kirstin L. , Kalsi Gursharan , Armour Cherie , Jones Ian R. , Hotopf Matthew , McIntosh Andrew M. , Smith Daniel J. , Walters James T. R. , Rogers Henry C. , Thompson Katherine N. , Adey Brett N. , Monssen Dina , Kakar Saakshi , Malouf Chelsea M. , Hirsch Colette , Glen Kiran , Kelly Emily J. , Veale David , Eley Thalia C. , Breen Gerome , Davies Molly R.
Published: July 2023

Background

The Genetic Links to Anxiety and Depression (GLAD) Study is a large cohort of individuals with lifetime anxiety and/or depression, designed to facilitate re-contact of participants for mental health research. At the start of the pandemic, participants from three cohorts, including the GLAD Study, were invited to join the COVID-19 Psychiatry and Neurological Genetics (COPING) study to monitor mental and neurological health. However, previous research suggests that participation in longitudinal studies follows a systematic, rather than random, process, which can ultimately bias results. Therefore, this study assessed participation biases following the re-contact of GLAD Study participants.

Methods

In April 2020, all current GLAD Study participants (N = 36,770) were invited to the COPING study. Using logistic regression, we investigated whether sociodemographic, mental, and physical health characteristics were associated with participation in the COPING baseline survey (aim one). Subsequently, we used a zero-inflated negative binomial regression to examine whether these factors were also related to participation in the COPING follow-up surveys (aim two).

Results

For aim one, older age, female gender identity, non-binary or self-defined gender identities, having one or more physical health disorders, and providing a saliva kit for the GLAD Study were associated with an increased odds of completing the COPING baseline survey. In contrast, lower educational attainment, Asian or Asian British ethnic identity, Black or Black British ethnic identity, higher alcohol consumption at the GLAD sign-up survey, and current or ex-smoking were associated with a reduced odds. For aim two, older age, female gender, and saliva kit provision were associated with greater COPING follow-up survey completion. Lower educational attainment, higher alcohol consumption at the GLAD Study sign-up, ex-smoking, and self-reported attention deficit hyperactivity disorder had negative relationships.

Conclusions

Participation biases surrounding sociodemographic and physical health characteristics were particularly evident when re-contacting the GLAD Study volunteers. Factors associated with participation may vary depending on study design. Researchers should examine the barriers and mechanisms underlying participation bias in order to combat these issues and address recruitment biases in future studies.
Application of ADAPT-ITT: adapting an evidence-based HIV/STI mother-daughter prevention intervention for Black male caregivers and girls
Authors: Crooks Natasha , Debra Alyssa , Coleman Diamond , Sosina Wuraola , Singer Randi , Jeremiah Rohan , Green Betty , Johnson Waldo , Caldwell Cleopatra , Patil Crystal , Matthews Alicia K. , Donenberg Geri
Published: July 2023

Background

Black girls are disproportionately impacted by HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), underscoring the urgent need for innovative strategies to enhance the adoption and maintenance of HIV/STI prevention efforts. Historically, Black male caregivers have been left out of girls’ programming, and little guidance exists to inform intervention development for Black girls and their male caregivers. Engaging Black male caregivers in Black girls’ sexual and reproductive health may reduce sexual risk-taking and improve the sustainability of preventative behaviors.

Objective

This paper describes the formative phases, processes, and methods used to adapt an evidence-based mother-daughter sexual and reproductive health intervention for Black girls 9–18 years old and their male caregivers.

Methods

We used the ADAPT-ITT model to tailor IMARA for Black girls and their male caregivers. Diverse qualitative methods (interviews, focus groups, and theater testing) were used throughout the adaption process.

Results

Findings support using the ADAPT-ITT model to tailor an evidence-based HIV/STI intervention for Black girls and their Black male caregivers. Findings highlight the importance of community engagement and the use of qualitative methods to demonstrate the acceptability and feasibility of the adapted intervention. Key lessons learned are reviewed.

Conclusions

Adapting evidence-based interventions to incorporate Black girls and their Black male caregivers should be driven by a relevant theoretical framework that aligns with the target population(s). Adapting the intervention in partnership with the community has been shown to improve acceptability and feasibility as it is responsive to community needs. Using a systematic process like the ADAPT-ITT model will ensure that the new program is ready for efficacy trials.
Efficacy and safety comparison between axillary lymph node dissection with no axillary surgery in patients with sentinel node-positive breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Yu-Jia , Li Jin-Cheng , Zhu De-Miao , Zhu Hai-Long , Zhao Yi , Zhu Xin-Bing , Wu Gang , Bai Ting-ting
Published: July 2023

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to study the evidence on the efficacy and safety of omitting axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for patients with clinically node-negative but sentinel lymph node (SLN)-positive breast cancer using all the available evidence.

Methods

The Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Library databases were searched through February 25, 2023. Original trials that compared only the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) with ALND as the control group for patients with clinically node-negative but SLN-positive breast cancer were included. The primary outcomes were axillary recurrence rate, total recurrence rate, disease-free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS). Meta-analyses were performed to compare the odds ratio (OR) in rates and the hazard ratios (HR) in time-to-event outcomes between both interventions. Based on different study designs, tools in the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool were used for randomized trials and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions to assess the risk of bias for each included article. Funnel plots and Egger's test were used for the publication’s bias assessment.

Results

In total, 30 reports from 26 studies were included in the systematic review (9 reports of RCTs, 21 reports of retrospective cohort studies). According to our analysis, omitting ALND in patients with clinically node-negative but SLN-positive breast cancer had a similar axillary recurrence rate (OR = 0.95, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76–1.20), DFS (HR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.89–1.16), and OS (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.92–1.03), but caused a significantly lower incidence of adverse events and benefited in locoregional recurrence rate (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.59–0.97) compared with ALND.

Conclusion

For patients with clinically node-negative but SLN-positive breast cancer (no matter the number of the positive SLN), this review showed that SLNB alone had a similar axillary recurrence rate, DFS, and OS, but caused a significantly lower incidence of adverse events and showed a benefit for the locoregional recurrence compared with ALND. An OS benefit was found in the Macro subset that used SLNB alone versus complete ALND. Therefore, omitting ALND is feasible in this setting.

Trial registration

CRD 42023397963
A scoping review on the association of early childhood caries and maternal gender inequality
Authors: Sun Ivy Guofang , Duangthip Duangporn , Kwok Charis Hiu-Kei , Chu Chun Hung , Crystal Yasmi O. , Schroth Robert J. , Feldens Carlos Alberto , Virtanen Jorma I. , Al-Batayneh Ola Barakat , Gaffar Balgis , Mfolo Tshepiso , El Tantawi Maha , Mohebbi Simin Z. , Daryanavard Hamideh , Folayan Morenike Oluwatoyin ,   Early Childhood Caries Advocacy Group (ECCAG)
Published: July 2023

Aim

The objective of this scoping review is to present current evidence regarding the association between early childhood caries (ECC) and maternal-related gender inequality.

Methods

Two independent reviewers performed a comprehensive literature search using three databases: EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science. Literature published in English from 2012 to 2022 was included in the search and was restricted to only primary research by using the following key terms: "dental caries", "tooth decay", "gender", "sex", "preschool", "toddler," and "infant". The included studies were limited to those reporting an association between ECC and maternal aspects related to gender inequality. Titles and abstracts were screened, and irrelevant publications were excluded. The full text of the remaining papers was retrieved and used to perform the review. The critical appraisal of selected studies was guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Tools.

Results

Among 1,103 studies from the three databases, 425 articles were identified based on publication years between 2012 and 2022. After full-text screening, five articles were included in the qualitative analysis for this review. No published study was found regarding a direct association between ECC and maternal gender inequality at the level of individuals. Five included studies reported on the association between ECC and potential maternal-gender-related inequality factors, including the mother’s education level (n = 4), employment status (n = 1), and age (n = 1). Regarding the quality of the included studies, out of five, two studies met all JBI criteria, while three partially met the criteria.

Conclusions

Based on the findings of this scoping review, evidence demonstrating an association between gender inequality and ECC is currently limited.
Listening to stakeholders in the prevention of gender-based violence among young people in Spain: a qualitative study from the positivMasc project
Authors: Marcos-Marcos Jorge , Nardini Krizia , Briones-Vozmediano Erica , Vives-Cases Carmen
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study seeks to deepen current knowledge of the phenomenon of gender-based violence (GVB) among young people in Spain, identifying the main challenges in terms of prevention from the perspective of key stakeholders in the field.

Methods

23 semi-structured qualitative interviews were performed with professionals whose work involves youth and comes from different areas: social work, policy making, youth education, feminist and LGBTQ activism and anti-violence masculinities engagement (13 women and 10 men).

Results

Among the main challenges identified by stakeholders in relation to GBV preventive strategies in young populations there is a need to focus on transformative programmes within educational settings. The findings indicate that specific programs and interventions in this area may not be yielding the expected effectiveness. This outcome could be attributed less to a lack of resources and more to a failure to address the core issues and challenges adequately. Thus, the results underline that intervention programmes should emphasise equitable gender norms and gender relations and incorporate content on anti-violence masculinities. Finally, a pivotal aspect seen by professionals to facilitate GBV prevention is the design and development of interventions based on participatory and active approaches, close to young people’s everyday situations. The results also draw attention to the need to analyse the impact of new forms of violence in greater depth, especially those that occur through information and communication technologies.

Conclusion

Among other implications for policy and practice, the study points to the need to articulate interventions designed to work simultaneously at different levels of influence acting on people.
Optimization of hydrogen production in Enterobacter aerogenes by Complex I peripheral fragments destruction and maeA overexpression
Authors: Jiang Ke , Bai Ruoxuan , Gao Ting , Lu Ping , Zhang Jingya , Zhang Shuting , Xu Fangxu , Wang Shenghou , Zhao Hongxin
Published: July 2023

As a concentrated energy source with high added value, hydrogen has great development prospects, with special emphasis on sustainable microbial production as a replacement for traditional fossil fuels. In this study, λ-Red recombination was used to alter the activity of Complex I by single and combined knockout of nuoE, nuoF and nuoG. In addition, the conversion of malic to pyruvic acid was promoted by overexpressing the maeA gene, which could increase the content of NADH and formic acid in the bacterial cells. Compared to the original strain, hydrogen production was 65% higher in the optimized strain IAM1183-EFG/M, in which the flux of the formic acid pathway was increased by 257%, the flux of the NADH pathway was increased by 13%, and the content of metabolites also changed significantly. In further bioreactor, the total hydrogen production of the scale-up IAM1183-EFG/M after 44 h of fermentation was 4.76 L, which increased by 18% compared with the starting strain. This study provides a new direction for future exploration of microbial hydrogen production by combinatorial modification of multiple genes.

Graphical Abstract
A conceptual framework on the role of backward integration in sustainable access to malaria intervention commodities in Nigeria
Authors: Mokuolu Olugbenga A. , Idachaba Innocent O. , Babatunde Musibau A. , Suleiman Kafayat O. , Mokuolu Toluwani A. , Lawal Lukman , Osofisan Adenike O.
Published: July 2023

Background

Over the last two decades, global stakeholders and the Nigerian government have invested approximately $2 billion in malaria control, reducing parasite prevalence to 23% from 42% to 2010. However, there is a risk that the modest gains will be reversed due to unmet resource gaps. Backward integration is presented in this paper as a viable option for sustainable funding of malaria intervention commodities in Nigeria.

Methods

Following a critical appraisal of the resource profile and malaria expenditure, a conceptual framework on backward integration as a means of ensuring long-term supply of malaria intervention commodities was developed. The study analysed secondary annual data from the National Malaria Elimination Programme to estimate commodity needs for the period 2018–2020, as well as total resources committed and the financial gap.

Results

The funds needed to implement national malaria interventions from 2018 to 2020 totaled US$ 1,122,332,318, of which US$ 531,228,984 (47.3%) were funded. The Nigerian government contributed 2.5%, the Global Fund (26.7%), the President’s Malaria Initiative (16.5%), and the UK Department for International Development (6.2%). The funding shortfall was $591,103,335, or 52.7% of the needs. Various funding scenarios were evaluated for their relative merits and limitations, including advocacy for more external funding, bank borrowing, increased domestic resources, and backward integration.

Conclusions

The study concluded that backward integration should be used, based on a government-led public-private partnership that will increase local production of malaria intervention commodities that are accessible and affordable through market-based demand and supply arrangements.
Antiosteoporosis effect and possible mechanisms of the ingredients of Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae in animal models of osteoporosis: systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies
Authors: Lian Yong , Zhu Haoran , Guo Xiaxia , Fan Yinuo , Xie Zhixing , Xu Jinfan , Shao Min
Published: July 2023

Background

The effect and mechanisms of the ingredients (IRAB) of Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae (RAB) on treating osteoporosis (OP) remains debated. We aimed to summary the evidence to evaluate the efficacy of IRAB for animal model OP and elucidate the potential mechanism of IRAB in the treatment of OP.

Methods

In this review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, as well as Chinese VIP databases for targeting articles published from inception to March 2023 in English or Chinese. All randomized controlled animal trials that assessed the efficacy and safety of IRAB for OP were included. We excluded trials according to exclusion criteria. The CAMARADES 10-item quality checklist was utilized to test the risk of potential bias for each including study and modifications were performed accordingly. The primary outcome measures were bone mineral density of the femoral neck (F-BMD), serum calcium (Ca), serum phosphorus (P), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone gla protein (BGP), bone maximum stress (M-STRESS). The secondary outcome measure was the antiosteoporosis mechanisms of IRAB.

Results

Data from nine articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, which focused on 196 animals. Egger’s test revealed the presence of publication bias in various studies regarding the primary outcome. Administration of IRAB or RAB could significantly increases the F-BMD (SMD = 2.09; 95% CI = 1.29 to 2.89; P < 0.001, I2 = 76%), Ca (SMD = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.39to1.34; P = 0.07, I2 = 49%); P (SMD = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.45–4.57; P = 0.08, I2 = 50%), BGP (SMD = 2.13; 95% CI = 1.48 to 2.78; I2 = 46%, P = 0.10), while the ALP (SMD = − 0.85; 95% CI =  − 1.38 to − 0.31; I2 = 46%, P = 0.10) was remarkably decreased in OP model animals. Moreover, the bone biomechanical indicator M-STRESS (SMD = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.74–3.04; I2 = 32%, P = 0.21) was significantly improved.

Conclusion

Collectively, the findings suggest that the RAB or IRAB could be an effective drug or an ingredient in diet for the clinical treatment of OP in future.
Severe dysphagia due to an esophageal duplication cyst in sixth decade, unusual presentation of a rare pathology
Authors: Endara Santiago A. , Pinto Jaime R. , Torres Gustavo A. , Arias Pablo A. , Ponton M. Patricia , Molina Gabriel A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Esophageal duplication cysts are rare congenital tumors usually diagnosed and treated during childhood. Most of them are located in the mediastinum and appear as a mass besides the esophagus. Unfortunately, symptoms are non-specific and depend on the size and location of the mass; therefore, they can easily be missed. If symptoms appear, surgical resection is necessary to prevent troublesome complications.

Case Presentation

We present the case of a 60-year-old woman who presented with severe progressive dysphagia and epigastric pain. After further evaluation, a paraesophageal cystic mass was found, and surgery was required. Non-communicating esophageal duplication cyst was the final diagnosis.

Conclusion

Esophageal duplication cysts are a rare pathology in adults; their symptoms will vary depending on their size and location. Preoperative diagnosis is difficult as symptoms are non-specific and can be missed. If severe dysphagia, pain, or any other complication appears, surgery should not be delayed.
Effectiveness of a training program for a patient with non-cardiac chest pain that combines intervention to improve quality of life, psychological state, and functional capacity: a case report
Authors: Huzmeli Irem , Ozer Aysel Yildiz
Published: July 2023

Background

Noncardiac chest pain (NCCP) is persistent angina-like chest pain without cardiac origin that affects the patient’s health related quality of life (HrQoL), although it does not affect mortality. The effect of a comprehensive training program for NCCP focused on quality of life, psychological state, peripheral muscle strength, physical activity, and quality of life has not been previously established or published. Therefore, this study aimed to show the effectiveness of our combined training program that focuses on functional capacity, physical activity, pulmonary function, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, dyspnea, fatigue, anxiety, and depression perception in NCCP patients with dyspnea.

Case presentation

A 38-year-old man with shortness of breath and NCCP was referred to to us for cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Respiratory muscle strength (mouth pressure device), functional capacity (6 min walking test, 6-MWT), peripheral muscle strength (dynamometer), pulmonary function (spirometry), fatigue (fatigue severity scale), shortness of breath (MMRC, Modified Medical Council Research, Modified Borg Scale-MBS), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire, IPAQ), health related quality of life (SF-36, Short Form-36), and depression and anxiety (Hospital Depression and Anxiety scale, HADs) were assessed. Aerobic training combined with inspiratory muscle training (loading 30% maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP)) was administered at least 5 days/week for 6 weeks. Functional capacity, physical activity, pulmonary function, and respiratory and peripheral muscle strength improved, and dyspnea, fatigue, anxiety, and depression perception were decreased after the management.

Conclusions

This combined training program was effective for patients with NCCP and shortness of breath. Future studies should be conducted to find the most effective biopsychosocial training protocol for NCCP patients.
Prosthetic knee joint infection caused by α-hemolytic Streptococcus species: a case report
Authors: Mardani Masoud , Mohammadshahi Jafar , Teimourpour Roghayeh
Published: July 2023

Background

Knee arthroplasty is an orthopedic surgical procedure in which a damaged joint is replaced with an artificial one. It is estimated that 1–2% of knee arthroplasties will encounter infection over their lifetime. Although α-hemolytic Streptococcus species play an important role in prosthetic joint infection, they are less common than staphylococcal species.

Case presentation

In this report, a 50-year-old Iranian woman was diagnosed with prosthetic knee joint infection based on clinical, radiological, and laboratory findings. She was diabetic and had undergone a left total knee arthroplasty, which, 18 months after the surgery, presented pain, erythema, and edema in that knee. The primary culture of knee aspirate was positive for α-hemolytic Streptococcus species, but following antibiotic medication, culture was negative. The primary antibiotic regime was vancomycin and meropenem, which was changed to cefepime for the management of the infection based on the results of antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Conclusions

This report indicated the clinical presentation and management of the patient with prosthetic joint infection in which the patient recovered without any severe complications or surgical intervention.
Standard versus innovative robotic balance assessment for people with multiple sclerosis: a correlational study
Authors: Podda Jessica , Marchesi Giorgia , Squeri Valentina , De Luca Alice , Bellosta Alice , Pedullà Ludovico , Konrad Giovanna , Battaglia Mario Alberto , Brichetto Giampaolo , Tacchino Andrea
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Balance disorders are common in people with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) and, together with other impairments and disabilities, often prevent PwMS from performing their daily living activities. Besides clinical scales and performance tests, robotic platforms can provide more sensitive, specific, and objective monitoring. Validated technologies have been adopted as gold standard, but innovative robotic solutions would represent an opportunity to detect balance impairment in PwMS.

Aim

Study’s aim was to compare postural assessment of 46 PwMS with a relapsing–remitting form during static tasks performed with the novel robotic platform hunova® and the gold standard EquiTest®,

Methods

Pearson’s r was run on Center of Pressure (COP)-related parameters and global static balance measures computed from hunova® and EquiTest® in eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions. In addition, agreeableness level toward the use of both devices was tested through numeric rating scale.

Results

Considering COP-related parameters, correlations were significant for all measures (p < .001). Interestingly, in EO, a strong correlation was shown for sway area (r = .770), while Medio-Lateral (ML) and Anterior–Posterior (AP) oscillation range, path length, ML and AP speed, ML and AP root mean square distance had a relatively strong association (.454 ≤ r ≤ .576). In EC, except for ML oscillation range showing a relatively strong correlation (r = .532), other parameters were strongly associated (.603 ≤ r ≤ .782). Correlations between global balance indexes of hunova® and EquiTest® revealed a relatively strong association between the Somatosensory Score in EquiTest® and the Somatosensory Index in hunova® (r = − .488). While in EO Static Balance Index from hunova® was highly correlated with Equilibrium score of EquiTest® (r = .416), Static Balance Index had a relatively strong association with both the Equilibrium (r = .482) and Strategy Score (r = .583) of EquiTest® in EC. Results from agreeableness rating scale revealed that hunova® was highly appreciated compared to EquiTest® (p = .044).

Conclusions

hunova® represents an innovative adjunct to standard robotic balance evaluation for PwMS. This confirms that combining traditional and robotic assessments can more accurately detect balance impairments in MS.