bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operationalisation of health equity principles in physiotherapy hospital triage policies
Authors: Pagano Lisa , Glenn Nick , Hutchinson Karen , Long Janet C. , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Sarkies Mitchell N.
Published: August 2024

Background

Healthcare triage policies are vital for allocating limited resources fairly and equitably. Despite extensive studies of healthcare equity, consensus on the applied definition of equity in triage remains elusive. This study aimed to investigate how the principles of equity are operationalised in Australian hospital physiotherapy triage tools to guide resource distribution.

Methods

A retrospective, qualitative content analysis of 13 triage policies from 10 hospitals across Australia was conducted. Triage policies from both inpatient and outpatient settings were sourced. Data were coded deductively using the five discrete domains of the multi-faceted operational definition of health equity posited by Lane et al. (2017): 1) point of equalisation in the health service supply/access/outcome chain, 2) need or potential to benefit, 3) groupings of equalisation, 4) caveats to equalisation, 5) close enough is good enough. Descriptive summative statistics were used to analyse and present the frequency of reported equity domains.

Results

Within the included triage tools, four out of five domains of equity were evident in the included documents to guide decision making. Allocation based on perceived patient need and overall health outcomes were the central guiding principles across both inpatient and outpatient settings. Equal provision of service relative to patient need and reducing wait times were also prioritised. However, explicit inclusion of certain equity domains such as discrimination, ensuring equal capability to be healthy and other patient factors was limited.

Conclusions

Physiotherapy triage policies consider various domains of equity to guide resource allocation decisions. Policymakers and service providers can use the insights gained from this study to review the application and operationalisation of equity principles within their healthcare systems through mechanisms such as patient triage tools.
The opioid epidemic and accessibility to free Wi-Fi: internet access is a human rights issue
Authors: Jozaghi Ehsan
Published: August 2024

The opioid epidemic has taken the lives of thousands of people across North America and Europe. Moreover, lack of housing, inflation, and a rapidly changing economy have affected millions of people, and many have become homeless. Many governments, researchers, health agencies, and not-for-profits have offered innovative ways to tackle this crisis, including many harm-reduction technologies that rely on Internet. In the age of the first artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, where reliance and accessibility to Internet have become a necessity for finding jobs, housing, affordable food, social services, social connection, and staying alive, the creation of free Wi-Fi zones around inner city neighborhood by towns and municipalities is not only a cost-effective way to reduce death, social costs, but a human rights issue during the initial stage of first A.I. revolution.
Doped holes and/or electrons induced superconductivity domes explained with the free volume concept
Authors: Hao Tian
Published: August 2024

The conductivity equation developed in our previous work without any restrictions to specific materials is employed to explore how superconductivity transition temperature $$T_{c}$$

T
c

changes with the doped hole or electron concentrations based on the free volume concept. The predicted relationship is used to fit experimental data available in the literature and a good agreement with observations is achieved. Our findings may provide an alternative explanation for doping-induced domes and/or double domes with a-dip phenomena observed among many superconductors.
Clinical Trials in Gastroesophageal Cancers: An Analysis of the Global Landscape of Interventional Trials From ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Falade Ayo S. , Adeoye Oluwatayo , Van Loon Katherine , Buckle Geoffrey C.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

To describe the global landscape of clinical research into interventions for gastroesophageal cancers (GECs), with examination of trial characteristics, geographic distribution of trial sites, and factors associated with trial termination.

METHODS

We queried ClinicalTrials.gov to identify all completed or terminated phase III interventional studies investigating GECs (esophageal squamous cell carcinoma [ESCC], esophageal adenocarcinoma [EAC], gastroesophageal junctional [GEJ], and gastric adenocarcinoma). Data on all reported trial characteristics were extracted. Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare differences in completed and terminated trials. Multivariate logistic regression evaluated predictors of termination.

RESULTS

A total of 179 trials were identified; of these, 90% were therapeutic. Most included sites in Asia (61%) and Europe (32%); few included sites in Africa (4%). Thirty percent included sites in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Most (70%) focused on gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma, 13% on EAC and ESCC, and 9% on ESCC alone. Sixteen percent (n = 29) of trials terminated prematurely. In multivariate analysis, study site number, location of recruitment sites, and patient population emerged as predictors of termination. Trials recruiting from US-based sites were more likely to terminate (odds ratio [OR], 7.22 [95% CI, 1.59 to 32.69]). Trials conducted exclusively in LMICs were less likely to terminate (OR, 0.04 [95% CI, 0.01 to 0.59] v conducted in high-income countries [HICs] alone). Studies on ESCC were more likely to terminate (OR, 17.74 [95% CI, 1.49 to 210.69]).

CONCLUSION

Although 80% of GECs occur in LMICs, trial activity disproportionately occurs in HICs. Few trials focus on EAC/ESCC despite being highly fatal, highlighting an unmet need. Overall, this study highlights (1) a missed opportunity to recruit patients from high-incidence regions globally; and (2) a pressing need for increasing funding, infrastructure, and support for GEC trials in LMICs.
Basic Issues Related to the Occurrence of Infections in Healthcare Facilities
Authors: Arciszewska Klaudia , Dobosz Mateusz , Paprocki Michał , Mataczyńska Anna , Laskowska Aleksandra , Bogoń Aleksandra , Padkowska Aleksandra , Pieniążek Jakub Maciej , Buczkowski Jakub
Published: August 2024

Nosocomial infections means the penetration, and the development of a biological pathogenic factor in the body, which occurred in connection with the impartation of health services. These infections affect 5 to 10% of patients. Most of the hospital staff do not know or ignore the rules for reducing infections in healthcare facilities. In Poland, there is a shortage of epidemiological nurses, doctors specializing in epidemiology, bacteriology and microbiology, and statements about their position in the structure of hospital management structure. The most difficult to combat are MDRO. They are most often carried by non-disinfected hands and medical equipment, outdated ventilation and air-conditioning installations and drainage of water from healthcare facilities. In order to limit the transmission of infectious microorganisms as much as possible, health services provided in health care facilities should be properly organized. Medical personnel should be properly trained, and cleaning staff should be equipped with adequate cleaning and disinfection agents. Each medical facility should define a hospital environment monitoring program in which the rules for limiting the transmission of infectious pathogens are clearly defined. Additionally, a program should be created to encourage the selection of specializations in epidemiological and related fields for doctors and nurses in order to increase the number of personnel with such degree and direction of education.
Systematic Review on Cesarean Scar Pregnancy (CSP) Diagnosis, Treatment and Management
Authors: Marzec Marcelina Teresa , Łakoma Aleksandra , Marzec Weronika Zofia , Choiński Maciej , Wasiewicz-Ciach Paulina , Kuczyński Piotr , Marszałek Anna , Wydra-Rojek Aleksandra , Kutyła Katarzyna , Mokot Wojciech Jan
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a rare but increasingly recognized complication where an embryo implants on the cesarean section scar. The incidence of CSP is rising in parallel with increasing global cesarean rates, posing significant health risks such as severe bleeding and uterine rupture. Early and accurate identification using criteria like the gestational sac's position within the scar and specific ultrasound features is crucial for preventing severe outcomes.
Aim of the Study
To evaluate the diagnostic criteria and various treatment strategies for CSP, assessing their effectiveness and challenges.
Materials and Methods
A review  of  the  literature  collected  in  the PubMed  database  was  performed  to  gather information found under the key words cesarean scar pregnancy," “ectopic pregnancy,” "CSP treatment," "uterine artery embolization," "methotrexate," "hysteroscopy," "dilation and curettage," and "chemoembolization."
 
Summary
The review discusses various treatment strategies, including methotrexate administration, UAE, and surgical options like hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, highlighting their effectiveness and associated challenges. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring treatments to individual patient conditions, with newer methods like chemoembolization showing promise in minimizing complications. The findings underscore the need for a personalized treatment approach, considering patient-specific factors and health goals. Further research is needed to refine these strategies and improve outcomes for those affected by CSP.
The role of vitamin D in selected autoimmune diseases - review
Authors: Osuch Dobromiła , Opala Dominika , Staszczyk Izabela , Drabik Aleksandra , Szczotka Dominika , Szemplińska Antonina , Błachnio Klaudia , Anderska Agnieszka
Published: August 2024

Introduction and purpose: Vitamin D is a micronutrient whose main role in the human body is to ensure proper calcium-phosphate balance and adequate bone metabolism, having an effect on the immune system, also exhibiting a number of other actions, in particular anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, so that its deficiency is reflected in a number of autoimmune diseases. The purpose of this study is to analyze the literature for the role of vitamin D in multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroiditis, inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease.
Materials and methods: a thorough analysis of the medical literature available in the PubMed database was performed.
Current state of knowledge: The main role of vitamin D in the human body is to ensure calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and, influence adequate bone metabolism. Vitamin D receptors (VDR), are present in many tissues such as brain, prostate, pancreas, breast, colon and immune cells, suggesting that vitamin D also has extra-skeletal functions and a link to autoimmune diseases.
Summary: Low serum vitamin D levels may increase the risk of immune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune thyroid diseases, celiac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Research on the Fitness Status and Influencing Factors of Fishermen Who have Withdrawn from Fishing in the Yangtze River Basin - A Survey Analysis Based on 331 Individuals in the Chongqing Section
Authors: Song Peng , Jiang Bo
Published: August 2024

This study conducts a survey and analysis of the fitness status of 331 fishermen who have withdrawn from fishing in the Chongqing section of the Yangtze River Basin. The results indicate that educational level is the most significant factor constraining the participation of these fishermen in fitness activities in the Yangtze River Basin. Gender, place of residence, working hours, and employment status also have a significant impact on their engagement in fitness activities. A monthly income of 6000 yuan is a key income threshold for their participation in fitness activities. After withdrawing from fishing, the attention to health among these fishermen has continually increased. The forms of fitness activities they engage in primarily involve "simple and feasible" activities such as walking, jogging, and hiking. The locations for these activities are mainly parks, roads, courtyards, or residential areas. There are noticeable differences in the level of exercise among fishermen withdrawing from fishing of different age groups. "Lack of time" is a crucial factor preventing these fishermen from participating in fitness activities. Insufficient skills in sports and lack of necessary equipment also hinder their engagement in fitness. The habit of "staring at screens without moving" poses a significant health risk for fishermen withdrawing from fishing in the current context. Participation in fitness activities has a clear positive effect in alleviating the post-out-of-fishing life pressures for these fishermen. It not only facilitates their transition to alternative livelihoods but also enhances their life adaptation, ultimately increasing their sense of well-being in retirement.
A vista de pájaro: una nueva mirada sobre Colombia (1919-1940)
Authors: Schuster Sven
Published: August 2024

Colombia fue el primer país de América Latina en aplicar sistemáticamente la fotografía aérea. Esta nueva tecnología, desarrollada principalmente durante la Primera Guerra Mundial, fue usada para mapear territorios de difícil acceso. Su introducción en Colombia ocurrió considerablemente temprano gracias a la existencia de la aerolínea SCADTA (Sociedad Colombo-Alemana de Transportes Aéreos), fundada en 1919 por un grupo de empresarios colombianos y alemanes en Barranquilla. Este libro cuenta la historia de cómo la aerofotografía aportó a la formación del territorio nacional, teniendo en cuenta el contexto global de la época. A través del lente de la SCADTA vemos cómo ciertas zonas fronterizas fueron cartografiadas desde el aire, lo cual posibilitó el avance de proyectos de infraestructura, la explotación de petróleo y la colonización agraria. Aparte de esto, las fotografías de la SCADTA sirvieron para la promoción de Colombia en el extranjero y el estudio científico de “territorios vírgenes”. Basado en material inédito de Alemania, Colombia y Estados Unidos, este estudio pionero usa fotografías como fuentes históricas, no como meras ilustraciones. El resultado es una nueva mirada sobre la historia y la geografía de Colombia.
EFSANELERDE ANA BABA YETİŞKİN ROLÜ VE KÜLTÜREL KODLAR
Authors: Şenocak Ebru
Published: August 2024

Ata kültünün derin izlerini kültürel kodlar aracılığıyla geleceğe taşıyan insanoğlu bu değerleri mit, efsane, masal, destan gibi anlatılarla ölümsüz kılmıştır. Uzun tecrübe ve yaşanmışlıkları, bilgelikleri ve değerler dünyasını yansıtan efsaneler kısa anlatılar olmasına rağmen zengin anlam içeriklerine sahiptir. Efsane, gerçekten yaşanmış, inandırıcı ve olağanüstülük özelliklerine sahip kutsal halk anlatılarıdır. Evreni anlamlandırma, bilinmezliklerin sırrını çözme çabasına bağlı olarak ortaya çıkan efsaneler, insanoğlunun inanışlarına göre şekillenerek topluma yön vermiştir. Mitolojilerle yakın bağlantısı olan efsaneler, ilk yaratılışı, tabiat unsurlarındaki oluşumların/dönüşümlerin sebeplerini ilkel insanın algısına, düşünce ve yorum gücüne bağlı olarak anlamlandırmış öyküleştirdiği anlatılarla yaşayarak nesillerden nesillere ulaşmıştır.
Efsaneler, çocuk eğitimine dair bilgelikleri, çocuğun yanlış eğitiminin sonuçlarını, kaosa neden olan olaylarda ana-babanın rolünü de sorgulamıştır. Çocuk eğitimi, ailede başlar ve çocuk ana babasını taklit ederek öğrenme sürecine adım atar. Bu anlamda eğitimde ana-babaya düşen roller asla yadsınamaz. Yanlış, olumsuz davranışların sürdürülerek çocuğa kötü örnek olunması, yapılan hataların bireye geri dönüş ile bildirilmemesi olumsuzlukların çığ gibi büyümesine neden olur. Çocuk eğitiminde ana-baba ve yetişkin rolünün ele alındığı efsaneler, Cezalandırıcı Ana-baba, Suça Teşvik edici Anababa gibi alt başlıklar ile değerlendirilecektir. Tarihî ve kültürel değerlerin izlerini taşıyan efsaneler, geleneksel motifler ve kolektif bilincin etkisiyle evrensel ve millî değerlerin taşıyıcılığını yaparak topluma örnek ideal bireyler yetiştirme amacına hizmet etmektedir.
IMPACTO NO MERCADO E NO DESENVOLVIMENTO ECONÔMICO DE COOPERAÇÃO TECNOLÓGICA LEITEIRA DE UNIVERSIDADES: ESTUDO MULTICASOS COM PRODUTORES
Authors: Althoff Philippi Daniela , Pereira Fialho de Goes Helena
Published: August 2024

A cooperação entre universidades e organizações revela-se importante para o desenvolvimento de tecnologias no agronegócio. Na produção de leite de Mato Grosso do Sul, destaca-se o Programa Rio de Leite (PRL), em se trabalha a Transferência de Tecnologia (TT) a partir de universidades a propriedades. A pesquisa, fundamentada na estratégia de estudos de casos múltiplos, objetivou verificar quais e como são os efeitos relacionados ao impacto no mercado e desenvolvimento econômico sobre produtores de leite, a partir do PRL. Com base em modelo de TT reconhecido mundialmente, foram verificados e são descritos, na perspectiva dos produtores entrevistados, efeitos positivos de impacto no mercado e desenvolvimento econômico. Apresentam-se convergências e divergências ao modelo e a outros estudos, considerando as evidências das TTs às propriedades, além de um novo achado relativo ao desenvolvimento econômico. Assim, a pesquisa contribui para a literatura sobre o tema e para ressaltar efeitos positivos do PRL.
Late Darriwilian (Middle Ordovician) conodonts from eastern and southeastern Ireland
Authors: Stouge Svend , Harper David A.T. , Parkes Matthew A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The Middle Ordovician (upper Darriwilian) marine deposits of the Bellewstown Limestone Member and Tramore Limestone Formation in eastern and southeastern Ireland, respectively, yield a diverse conodont assemblage of 21 taxa. The sedimentary rocks deposited on the Bellewstown Terrane represent an intra-Iapetus island arc setting. The Tramore Limestone was deposited in a back-arc setting at the eastern margin of the Leinster-Lakesman Terrane that is considered part of the peri-Gondwanan Ganderia Terrane. The conodont assemblage, including species of Baltoniodus, Eoplacognathus, Plectodina and Pygodus is assigned to the Pygodus serra Conodont Zone (upper Darriwilian, Middle Ordovician). The genera Drepanodus, Drepanoistodus, Gothodus, Panderodus, Periodon, Protopanderodus, Sagittodontus and Triangulodus and are also represented. The Darriwilian conodont assemblages from Bellewstown and Tramore in Ireland are characteristic of the 'eastern' Iapetus Ocean with a southern mid latitudinal position. The fauna resembles the San Rafael (Mendoza Province, Argentina) conodont fauna of the Cuyania Composite Terrane. Baltoniodus, Eoplacognathus and Sagittodontina are shared with faunas in Baltica, whereas Baltoniodus and Sagittodontina together with Yangtzeplacognathu s occur in South China and Plectodina and Yangtzeplacognathus are recorded from Gondwana. An important factor influencing the distribution of conodont taxa is the siliciclastic-dominated sedimentation, interpreted to reflect cool to temperate water conditions. The Bellewstown and Tramore conodont fauna is in marked contrast to other deposits on island arcs and back-arc terranes within the Iapetus. These are interpreted to represent low latitudinal, warmer, oceanic water conditions with Laurentian faunal affinity. Some potential new species are introduced in open nomenclature.
An exceptional assemblage of Maccoya sphaerica (Echinoidea) from the Mississippian of Hook Head, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Authors: Stephenson Éimear , Thompson Jeffrey R. , Jackson Patrick N. Wyse , Murray John
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Echinoids are seldom prominent or conspicuous elements of Paleozoic marine communities. This could be a taphonomic artefact due to their flexible tests deflating and rapidly disarticulating after death—a fact that has undeniably hampered greater understanding of the group. Here, an extremely well-preserved cluster of echinoids is described from Tournaisian marine strata at Hook Head in southeast Ireland. All were collected in close proximity to each other and from essentially the same horizon towards the top of the Hook Head Formation, and all can be assigned to Maccoya sphaerica (M'Coy, 1844) based on their interambulacral plating. Preservation of features on some specimens is so exceptional that they reveal hitherto unknown details about the peristome and adoral plating in the broader palaechinid group. The sedimentological setting of the fossil-bearing site at Hook Head is in deep water and well below wave base towards the distal end of a mixed siliciclastic-carbonate ramp. Conditions on the seafloor appear to have been very calm and quiet, with minimal post-mortem disturbance of the echinoids promoting their excellent preservation. It remains unclear why these specimens of M. sphaerica congregated in this particular location on the seafloor, or what ultimately led to their sudden demise.
Stratigraphical and geographical distribution of Mississippian Crinoidea from Ireland
Authors: Ausich William I. , Kammer Thomas W. , Murray John
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Irish crinoids were first mentioned in the scientific literature more than 200 years ago, and they are amongst the most abundant fossil remains in Mississippian strata of Ireland. The stratigraphic and geographic occurrences and nomenclatural status of 82 named species assigned to 48 genera of Mississippian crinoids from Ireland are evaluated (two species are designated as nomena dubia ). Irish crinoids are reported from 52 known localities plus 11 additional localities that cannot be localised. This compilation is garnered from the literature and from museum collections at Trinity College Dublin and Geological Survey Ireland. Crinoids occur in Hastarian to Brigantian strata. The most abundant and diverse crinoid faunas occur in the mixed carbonate-siliciclastic ramp habitat preserved at Hook Head, County Wexford (Ivorian), with 48 crinoid species assigned to 26 genera recorded. Following this, numerous late Tournaisian localities across Ireland associated with Waulsortian carbonate mudbanks include 16 genera. All major clades were represented but camerate crinoids dominated faunas, which could in part be a taphonomic artefact because of their tightly sutured calyx plates. The cover beds at Feltrim Hill Quarry, north County Dublin, provide the most representative upper Chadian (early Viséan) view of crinoid populations. This post-Waulsortian facies includes a mixture of taxa, including a few genera that were important in the underlying carbonate mudbanks but also several new and rare genera. Subsequently, during the Viséan (Arundian to Brigantian regional substages) faunas are represented by all major crinoid clades with a total generic richness of 21, with camerates and advanced eucladids co-dominant.
A vertically embedded orthoconic nautiloid from the Pennsylvanian of County Clare, Ireland – an unusual case of 'distraction sinking'?
Authors: Doyle Eamon
Published: August 2024

Abstract: A vertically embedded orthoconic nautiloid is recorded for the first time from the Clare Shale Formation (Carboniferous; Pennsylvanian) of County Clare, Ireland. The specimen is compared to the few recorded examples of vertically preserved orthocones in the rock record and previously proposed models of this unusual preservation are reviewed. A new model of self-propelled accidental emplacement during predator avoidance manoeuvres is proposed as one possible mode of emplacement.
Eye structure and function in Ameura (Trilobita) from the Upper Carboniferous Minturn Formation at Bond, Colorado, USA
Authors: Schoenemann Brigitte , Hughes Nigel C. , Myrow Paul M.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Two enrolled specimens of the phillipsiid trilobite genus Ameura from a single Atokan horizon low in the Minturn Formation at Bond, Colorado preserve details of holochroal eye structure. Ameura cf. A. missouriensis (Shumard, 1858) shows each individual facet to internally contain eight or more circular structures surrounding a single, central hollow. We interpret these structures to be remnants of receptor cells, thus revealling the internal structure of an apposition eye. The diameters and spacing of facets in the holotype of A. bondi Hughes in Hughes et al . 2024 suggest a diurnally active lifestyle in shallow subaqueous conditions. The eyes apparently could have facilitated the generation of finely resolved images even in somewhat reduced light conditions. These functional conclusions based on eye morphology are consistent with sedimentological evidence for shallow but episodically turbid water conditions during deposition of this part of the Minturn Formation. It also accords with functional inferences derived from morphological characteristics related to enrolment, as well as from the nature of other biota found at the same horizon.
High-performance Ta2O5 films prepared by plasma ion-assisted deposition for low-absorption optics
Authors: Guo Chun , Kong Mingdong , Jing Jianhang
Published: August 2024

Tantalum pentaoxide (Ta2O5) films prepared by plasma ion-assisted deposition (PIAD) with different bias voltages of advanced plasma source were investigated in detail. The optical and micro-structural properties of single-layer Ta2O5 films were characterized by UV-VIS and FTIR spectrophotometers, laser calorimeter (LCA), optical interferometer, atomic force microscope (AFM), and x-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The dependences of optical and micro-structural characteristics of thin film on the bias voltage were analyzed. The prepared Ta2O5 film was demonstrated to be homogeneous in refractive index and amorphous in microstructure. The absorption and stress of Ta2O5 film were mainly dependent on the bias voltage, while the root-mean-square roughness decreased with the increasing bias voltage. Furthermore, it was found that a bias voltage greater than 120 V was necessary to fabricate dense Ta2O5 film with negligible water adsorption. Finally, a 1064 nm Ta2O5/SiO2 high-reflectance (HR) coating was prepared, and the influence of the Ar/O2 plasma treatment time on the absorption and reflectivity of multilayer film was researched. The experimental results showed that a low absorption loss (4.4 ppm) for the 1064 nm HR coating could be achieved by the PIAD process with the plasma treatment.
Updated therapeutic options for human brucellosis: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Huang Shanjun , Xu Jiaying , Wang Hao , Li Zhuo , Song Ruifang , Zhang Yiting , Lu Menghan , Han Xin , Ma Tian , Wang Yingtong , Hao Jiaxin , Song Shanshan , Zhen Qing , Shui Tiejun
Published: August 2024

Background

In clinical practice guidelines, there is no consensus about the medications that should be initially offered to patients with brucellosis. To provide informative evidence, we compared and ranked brucellosis medications based on their efficacy and safety.

Methods

For this systematic review and network meta-analysis, we searched 4 English databases and 3 Chinese databases, from the date of database inception to December 13, 2023. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving children and adolescents with brucellosis, comparing different antibiotic regimens. We excluded studies explicitly targeting patients with spondylitis brucellosis, endocarditis brucellosis, and neuro-brucellosis. The primary outcomes were overall failure (efficacy) and side effects (safety). Secondary outcomes were relapse and therapeutic failure. Pairwise meta-analysis was first examined. Data were analyzed using random effects network meta-analysis, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses performed. The Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA) framework was used to assess the certainty of evidence. The protocol was preregistered in PROSPERO (CRD42023491331).

Results

Of the 11,747 records identified through the database search, 43 RCTs were included in the network meta-analysis. Compared with standard therapy (Doxycycline + Rifampicin), Rifampicin + Tetracyclines (RR 4.96; 95% CI 1.47 to 16.70; very low certainty of evidence), Doxycycline + TMP/SMX (RR 0.18; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.52; low certainty of evidence), Doxycycline + Quinolones (RR 0.27; 95% CI 0.11 to 0.71; low certainty of evidence), Streptomycin + Tetracyclines (RR 0.04; 95% CI 0.01 to 0.16; low certainty of evidence), and Single (RR 0.05; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.16; moderate certainty of evidence) were less efficacious. Doxycycline + Gentamicin ranked the best in efficacy (SUCRA values: 0.94), the second is Triple (SUCRA values: 0.87), and the third is Doxycycline + Streptomycin (SUCRA values: 0.78).

Conclusions

Brucellosis medications differ in efficacy and safety. Doxycycline + Gentamicin, Triple, and Doxycycline + Streptomycin have superior efficacy and safety. Treatment of brucellosis should strike a balance between efficacy, safety, and cost.
Achieving destination sustainability: How tourist-to-tourist interaction quality affects tourist loyalty?
Authors: Gao Junli , Meng Fang , Guo Weifeng , Lin Baomin
Published: August 2024

Although tourist-to-tourist interaction (TTI) has been identified as an essential element in tourist experiences, the effect of TTI quality on tourist loyalty, and the mechanism underlying this effect is scarcely discussed in the literature. Based on the self-determination theory, this study aims to examine whether and how TTI quality influences tourist loyalty, representing a significant means to achieve destination sustainability. More specifically, this study tested a moderated mediation model in which basic psychological needs satisfaction mediated the relationship between TTI quality and tourist loyalty, while sociability moderated the link between TTI quality and basic psychological needs satisfaction. A survey research approach was used, and 746 complete, usable responses were collected in multiple cities in China. The results revealed that the direct impact of TTI quality on tourist loyalty is mediated by basic psychological needs satisfaction. Furthermore, sociability positively moderates the influence of TTI quality on tourist loyalty. This study extends the TTI literature by demonstrating the mechanism of basic psychological needs satisfaction and tourists’ sociability in the relationship between TTI quality and tourist loyalty. Managerial suggestions are provided for industry practitioners to improve tourist relationship management and the sustainability of destinations.
Development and psychometric evaluation of the epilepsy lifestyle questionnaire
Authors: Nadernejad Masomeh , Shamsalinia Abbas , Ghadimi Reza , Saadat Payam , Ahmadi Ahangar Alijan , Gharagozli Kourosh , Ghaffari Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

Epilepsy, particularly in older people, is associated with significant changes in physical activities, social and occupational functions, and diet. It is associated with significant changes in physical activities, social and occupational functions, and diet. Valid and reliable instruments are needed to assess these changes. This study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire to assess lifestyle in older people with epilepsy, named the Epilepsy Lifestyle Questionnaire (ELQ). This methodological study was conducted in 2022. The primary ELQ items were generated through reviewing the literature. Then, its face, content, construct, convergent, and discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test-retest stability were evaluated. Older patients aged ≥ 60 years were recruited from the Iranian Epilepsy Association to assess construct validity using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Data were analyzed using the SPSS (v. 26.0), AMOS (v. 24.0), and JASP software. The primary ELQ had 99 items with five subscales, namely health-oriented self-care, risk-averse behavior, emotional and psychosocial adaptation, epilepsy stigma, and intimacy and sexual behaviors. Sixty five items were deleted during psychometric evaluation. CFA showed the good fitting of the five-factor structure of the 34-item ELEQ (PCFI = 0.741, PNFI = 0.693, CMIN/DF = 0.073, IFI = 0.917, CFI = 0.916, AND GFI = 0.902). The values of internal consistency based on Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability based on intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of ELQ were 0.89 and 0.95, respectively. The ELQ is a valid and reliable self-report instrument. The results suggest that the ELQ is a useful clinical tool for assessing the lifestyle of patients with epilepsy.
Person-centered maternity care and associated factors among women who give birth at public hospitals in South Gondar zone, North West Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Dagnaw Gizachew Worku , Bizuneh Mekonen Melkie , Kassie Meseret Birhan
Published: August 2024

Background

Person-centered maternity care (PCMC) is the process of maternity care that is responsive to and respectful of each woman’s choices, values, and needs. It reflects the quality of maternal health services. The provision of PCMC is influenced by the maternal sociodemographic and obstetric-related variables However, there is little information about person-centered maternity care in Ethiopia; particularly, communication & autonomy, and supportive care are not well investigated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the proportion of person-centered maternity care and associated factors among women who give birth at the public hospital, in North West, Ethiopia, 2023.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 763 mothers who give birth at public hospitals in the South Gondar zone. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected through exit interviews using a structured pretested Amharic version questionnaire. EPI- Data version 4.6 was used for data entry and SPSS Version 25 for analysis. Bivariable & multivariable linear regression analysis was computed. Predictor variables were identified by using unstandardized β and a 95% confidence interval. A variable that has a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean person-centered maternity care was 42.33 out of 90. Mothers living in rural areas (β = -1.43, 95% CI: -2.76,-0.11), 3–4 providers present during labor and delivery (β = -1.58, 95% CI:-3.67,-0.27), had no history of facility delivery (β = -2.28,95% CI:-4.43,-0.13), two days length of stay at hospitals (β = 1.69,95% CI:0.40,2.48), and highest wealth (β = 1.05,95% CI:0.42,1.41) were factors significantly associated with person-centered maternity care (PCMC).

Conclusion

The mean score of PCMC was low in the study area compared to studies done in low- and middle-income countries. Highest wealth, 3–4 health providers present during labor and delivery, had no history of facility delivery, and had two-day lengths of stay at hospitals were predictors for PCMC. Therefore, strengthening facility delivery and promoting hospital stays for more than a day as a part of first postnatal care is paramount for increasing PCMC.
Using machine learning to determine the nationalities of the fastest 100-mile ultra-marathoners and identify top racing events
Authors: Knechtle Beat , Weiss Katja , Valero David , Villiger Elias , Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Andrade Marilia Santos , Scheer Volker , Cuk Ivan , Gajda Robert , Thuany Mabliny
Published: August 2024

The present study intended to determine the nationality of the fastest 100-mile ultra-marathoners and the country/events where the fastest 100-mile races are held. A machine learning model based on the XG Boost algorithm was built to predict the running speed from the athlete’s age (Age group), gender (Gender), country of origin (Athlete country) and where the race occurred (Event country). Model explainability tools were then used to investigate how each independent variable influenced the predicted running speed. A total of 172,110 race records from 65,392 unique runners from 68 different countries participating in races held in 44 different countries were used for analyses. The model rates Event country (0.53) as the most important predictor (based on data entropy reduction), followed by Athlete country (0.21), Age group (0.14), and Gender (0.13). In terms of participation, the United States leads by far, followed by Great Britain, Canada, South Africa, and Japan, in both athlete and event counts. The fastest 100-mile races are held in Romania, Israel, Switzerland, Finland, Russia, the Netherlands, France, Denmark, Czechia, and Taiwan. The fastest athletes come mostly from Eastern European countries (Lithuania, Latvia, Ukraine, Finland, Russia, Hungary, Slovakia) and also Israel. In contrast, the slowest athletes come from Asian countries like China, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. The difference among male and female predictions is relatively small at about 0.25 km/h. The fastest age group is 25–29 years, but the average speeds of groups 20–24 and 30–34 years are close. Participation, however, peaks for the age group 40–44 years. The model predicts the event location (country of event) as the most important predictor for a fast 100-mile race time. The fastest race courses were occurred in Romania, Israel, Switzerland, Finland, Russia, the Netherlands, France, Denmark, Czechia, and Taiwan. Athletes and coaches can use these findings for their race preparation to find the most appropriate racecourse for a fast 100-mile race time.
Robust isolation protocol for mouse leukocytes from blood and liver resident cells for immunology research
Authors: De Pooter Dorien , De Clerck Ben , Dockx Koen , De Santis Domenica , Sauviller Sarah , Dehertogh Pascale , Beyens Matthias , Bergiers Isabelle , Nájera Isabel , Van Gulck Ellen , Conceição-Neto Nádia , Pierson Wim
Published: August 2024

Research on liver-related conditions requires a robust and efficient method to purify viable hepatocytes, lymphocytes and all other liver resident cells, such as Kupffer or liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. Here we describe a novel purification method using liver enzymatic digestion, followed by a downstream optimized purification. Using this enzymatic digestion protocol, the resident liver cells as well as viable hepatocytes could be captured, compared to the classical mechanical liver disruption method. Moreover, single-cell RNA-sequencing demonstrated higher quality lymphocyte data in downstream analyses after the liver enzymatic digestion, allowing for studying of immunological responses or changes. In order to also understand the peripheral immune landscape, a protocol for lymphocyte purification from mouse systemic whole blood was optimized, allowing for efficient removal of red blood cells. The combination of microbeads and mRNA blockers allowed for a clean blood sample, enabling robust single-cell RNA-sequencing data. These two protocols for blood and liver provide important new methodologies for liver-related studies such as NASH, hepatitis virus infections or cancer research but also for immunology where high-quality cells are indispensable for further downstream assays.
Simulation-guided tunable DNA probe design for mismatch tolerant hybridization
Authors: Bugga Pallavi , Asthana Vishwaratn , Drezek Rebekah
Published: August 2024

The ability to both sensitively and specifically assess the sequence composition of a nucleic acid strand is an ever-growing field. Designing a detection scheme that can perform this function when the sequence of the target being detected deviates significantly from the canonical sequence however is difficult in part because probe/primer design is based on established Watson-Crick base-pairing rules. We present here a robust and tunable toehold-based exchange probe that can detect a sequence with a variable number of SNPs of unknown identity by inserting a series of controlled, sequential mismatches into the protector seal of the toehold probe, in an effort to make the protector seal “sloppy”. We show that the mismatch-tolerant system follows predicted behavior closely even with targets containing up to four mismatches that thermodynamically deviate from the canonical sequence by up to 15 kcal/mole. The system also performs faithfully regardless of the global mismatch position on either the protector seal or target. Lastly, we demonstrate the generalizability of the approach by testing the increasingly mismatch-tolerant protectors on HIV clinical samples to show that the system is capable of resolving multiple, iteratively mutated sequences derived from numerous HIV sub-populations with remarkable precision.
Quantifying salinity in calcareous soils through advanced spectroscopic models: A comparative study of random forests and regression techniques across diverse land use systems
Authors: Tahmoures Mohammad , Honarbakhsh Afshin , Afzali Sayed Fakhreddin , Nourzadeh Hadad Mehdi , Ostovari Yaser
Published: August 2024

Precise prediction of soil salinity using visible, and near-infrared (vis-NIR) spectroscopy is crucial for ensuring food security and effective environmental management. This paper focuses on the precise prediction of soil salinity utilizing visible and near-infrared (vis-NIR) spectroscopy, a critical factor for food security and effective environmental management. The objective is to utilize vis-NIR spectra alongside a multiple regression model (MLR) and a random forest (RF) modeling approach to predict soil salinity across various land use types, such as farmlands, bare lands, and rangelands accurately. To this end, we selected 150 sampling points representatives of these diverse land uses. At each point, we collected soil samples to measure the soil salinity (ECe) and employed a portable spectrometer to capture the spectral reflectance across the full wavelength range of 400 to 2400 nm. The methodology involved using both individual spectral reflectance values and combinations of reflectance values from different wavelengths as input variables for developing the MLR and RF models. The results indicated that the RF model (RMSE = 4.85 dS m-1, R2 = 0.87, and RPD = 3.15), utilizing combined factors as input variables, outperformed others. Furthermore, our analysis across different land uses revealed that models incorporating combined input variables yielded significantly better results, particularly for farmlands and rangelands. This study underscores the potential of combining vis-NIR spectroscopy with advanced modeling techniques to enhance the accuracy of soil salinity predictions, thereby supporting more informed agricultural and environmental management decisions.
Analysis of issues related to nursing law: Examination of news articles using topic modeling
Authors: Lee JooHyun , Chang Hyoung Eun , Cho Jaehyuk , Yoo Seohyun , Hyeon Joonseo
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to analyze proposed Korean nursing legislation as depicted in newspaper articles, to highlight issues related to the legislative process for this potential law, and to better understand social awareness regarding this matter.

Methods

The study focused on articles from 11 leading newspapers in Korea, published between February 2020 and August 2023, that pertained to nursing legislation. The articles were retrieved from the BigKinds database. Following text preprocessing, analytical methods including term frequency-inverse document frequency were employed, along with latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA), for word and topic modeling analysis. Additionally, LDA was applied across time periods to examine temporal changes in topics.

Results

Following preprocessing, a total of 7,967 words were extracted from the 991 articles selected for analysis. The primary themes identified in newspaper articles concerning the nursing legislation were organized into three main topics: 1) the necessity and impact of enactment of the nursing law, 2) the political context surrounding enactment of the law, and 3) the conflicts between and actions of healthcare organizations related to enactment of the law.

Conclusions

The findings confirmed that media coverage regarding the proposed nursing legislation primarily concentrated on the political and social conflicts associated with the law’s passage, rather than its necessity and substance. More compelling evidence must be presented concerning the influence of the nursing workforce and the work environment of nurses on patient safety and health outcomes. Additionally, strategies should be devised to improve public comprehension of the nursing law’s provisions.
Effects of two types of Coccomyxa sp. KJ on in vitro ruminal fermentation, methane production, and the rumen microbiota
Authors: Sato Yoshiaki , Shioya Honoka , Uda Yuma , Asano Hiroshi , Nagao Yoshikazu , Kuno Hitoshi , Yoshizawa Fumiaki
Published: August 2024

Coccomyxa sp. KJ is a unicellular green microalga that accumulates abundant lipids when cultured under nitrogen-deficient conditions (KJ1) and high nitrogen levels when cultured under nitrogen-sufficient conditions (KJ2). Considering the different characteristics between KJ1 and KJ2, they are expected to have different effects on rumen fermentation. This study aimed to determine the effects of KJ1 and KJ2 on in vitro ruminal fermentation, digestibility, CH4 production, and the ruminal microbiome as corn silage substrate condition. Five treatments were evaluated: substrate only (CON) and CON + 0.5% dry matter (DM) KJ1 (KJ1_L), 1.0% DM KJ1 (KJ1_H), 0.5% DM KJ2 (KJ2_L), and 1.0% DM KJ2 (KJ2_H). DM degradability-adjusted CH4 production was inhibited by 48.4 and 40.8% in KJ2_L and KJ2_H, respectively, compared with CON. The proportion of propionate was higher in the KJ1 treatments than the CON treatment and showed further increases in the KJ2 treatments. The abundances of Megasphaera, Succiniclasticum, Selenomonas, and Ruminobacter, which are related to propionate production, were higher in KJ2_H than in CON. The results suggested that the rumen microbiome was modified by the addition of 0.5–1.0% DM KJ1 and KJ2, resulting in increased propionate and reduced CH4 production. In particular, the KJ2 treatments inhibited ruminal CH4 production more than the KJ1 treatments. These findings provide important information for inhibiting ruminal CH4 emissions, which is essential for increasing animal productivity and sustaining livestock production under future population growth.