bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity analysis of the flash flood hazard by coupling variable fuzzy method and mutual entropy
Authors: Wang Haofang , Yun Ruan , Zhang Jincun , Zhao Ranhang
Published: February 2022

Watershed characteristics are one of the crucial factors affecting watershed hydrologic processes. Watershed hydrologic process regulation has been shown to be an effective tool for flash flood management. This study aims to propose a coupling method to evaluate the flash flood hazard degree of small hilly ungauged watersheds based on their watershed characteristic factors and identify sensitive factors influencing flash flood hazard. In this regard, nine watershed characteristic factors were selected for flash flood hazard sensitivity analysis. The variable fuzzy method (VFM) was proposed to calculate the eigenvalue of flash flood hazard degree for each small hilly watershed, and mutual entropy was proposed to identify sensitive factors influencing hazard degree. As an example, the sensitive factors in Licheng County with 119 small hilly watersheds in China are identified and further verified by stepwise regression analysis, which are mean watershed slope, soil moisture, average width of the mainstream, and watershed shape factor. This study shows that VFM and mutual entropy can be used jointly to identify the sensitive factors associated with the flash flood hazard in small hilly ungauged watersheds. The results can be used for engineering measure management in flash flood hazard control.
The COVID‐19 pandemic's impact on worry and medical disruptions reported by individuals with chromosome 22q11.2 copy number variants and their caregivers
Authors: White L. K. , Crowley T. B. , Finucane B. , Garcia‐Minaur S. , Repetto G. M. , van den Bree M. , Fischer M. , Jacquemont S. , Barzilay R. , Maillard A. M. , Donald K. A. , Gur R. E. , Bassett A. S. , Swillen A. , McDonald‐McGinn D. M.
Published: February 2022

Background

The world has suffered immeasurably during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Increased distress and mental and medical health concerns are collateral consequences to the disease itself. The Genes to Mental Health (G2MH) Network consortium sought to understand how individuals affected by the rare copy number variations of 22q11.2 deletion and duplication syndrome, associated with neurodevelopmental/neuropsychiatric conditions, were coping. The article focuses on worry and disruptions in medical care caused by the pandemic.

Methods

The University of Pennsylvania COVID‐19 Stressor List and care disruption questions were circulated by 22 advocacy groups in English and 11 other languages.

Results

A total of 512 people from 23 countries completed the survey; most were caregivers of affected individuals. Worry about family members acquiring COVID‐19 had the highest average endorsed worry, whilst currently having COVID‐19 had the lowest rated worry. Total COVID‐19 worries were higher in individuals completing the survey towards the end of the study (later pandemic wave); 36% (n = 186) of the sample reported a significant effect on health due to care interruption during the pandemic; 44% of individuals (n = 111) receiving care for their genetic syndrome in a hospital setting reported delaying appointments due to COVID‐19 fears; 12% (n = 59) of the sample reported disruptions to treatments; and of those reporting no current disruptions, 59% (n = 269) worried about future disruptions if the pandemic continued. Higher levels of care disruptions were related to higher COVID‐19 worries (Ps < 0.005). Minimal differences by respondent type or copy number variation type emerged.

Conclusions

Widespread medical care disruptions and pandemic‐related worries were reported by individuals with 22q11.2 syndrome and their family members. Reported worries were broadly consistent with research results from prior reports in the general population. The long‐term effects of COVID‐19 worries, interruptions to care and hospital avoidance require further study.
Understanding the emotional landscape in the withdrawer re‐engagement and blamer softening EFCT change events
Authors: Myung Hannah S. , Furrow James L. , Lee Nicholas A.
Published: February 2022

The heart of change in emotionally focused couple therapy (EFCT) involves accessing key emotions and using them to redefine the self and create new relational responses. Two EFCT change events, withdrawer re‐engagement and blamer softening, represent the emotion and relationship restructuring process with couples who are stuck in blame‐withdraw interactions. These change events involve facilitating greater accessibility, responsiveness, and emotional engagement between more avoidant and anxious partners. This study tracked in‐session emotional states and sequences in each of these change events. Findings highlight the importance of primary and softer emotional expressions. Specific emotional states characterize the two EFCT change events with adaptive grief/hurt being unique to withdrawer re‐engagement and rejecting anger distinguishing blamer softening. Sequential patterns of emotional states were identified particularly for withdrawer re‐engagement where grief/hurt was followed by acceptance and agency. Clinical implications consider the role of emotional transformation and emotional expansion in the EFCT change process.
Accuracy of Digital Impressions at Varying Implant Depths: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Sequeira Vivia , Harper Matthew T. , Lilly Christa L. , Bryington Matthew S.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Implants placed at variable depths may vary the amount of visible scannable surface of a scan body. Intraoral scanner technology uses advanced optical principles to record the surface of the scan body to accurately capture the implant position. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect implant placement depth has on the accuracy of digital implant impressions using an intraoral scanner.

Materials and methods

A partially edentulous gypsum master model was fabricated to allow the positioning of a single implant analog at different depths. Four groups were created based on the planned implant depths of 7, 6, 3, and 0 mm and corresponding visibility of the scan body at 2, 3, 6, and 9 mm. The model was digitized with a laboratory scanner for the reference scan and with an intraoral scanner to generate 15 test scans per group, with a total of 60 scans. The test scans were superimposed onto the reference scan using the best fit algorithm to analyze and measure the positional (dXYZ) and angular deviation (d⍬) of the scan body using three‐dimensional metrology software. Statistical analysis was performed using a one‐way ANOVA and pairwise comparison was done with a Tukey‐Kramer HSD test (α = 0.05).

Results

The one‐way ANOVA of the groups for the dXYZ and dθ parameters was statistically significant (F3,56 = 11.45, p < 0.001, F3,56 = 24.04, p < 0.001). Group D (9 mm) showed the least positional deviation at 38.41 μm (95% CI 30.26; 46.56) and the least angular deviation of 0.17° (95% CI 0.12; 0.21). Group A (2 mm) showed the greatest positional deviation of 77.17 μm (95% CI 65.23; 89.11) and greatest angular deviation of 0.84° (95% CI 0.65; 1.03). The positional and angular deviation increased with increased implant depth.

Conclusions

The accuracy of digital impressions is influenced by the implant depth and the amount of visibility of the scan body. The trueness and precision are highest when the implant is placed at 0 mm depth with complete visibility of the scan body and decreases with subgingival implant placement.
School‐Based Health Services in Virginia and the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Kranz Ashley M. , Steiner Elizabeth D. , Mitchell Jean M.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Schools have a long history of delivering health services, but it is unclear how the COVID‐19 pandemic may have disrupted this. This study examined changes in school‐based health services and student needs before and during the pandemic and the factors important for delivering school‐based health services.

METHODS

A web‐based survey regarding the impact of the pandemic on school‐based health services was distributed via email to all 1178 Virginia public elementary schools during May 2021.

RESULTS

Responding schools (N = 767, response rate = 65%) reported providing fewer school‐based health services during the 2020‐2021 school year than before the pandemic, with the largest declines reported for dental screenings (51% vs 15%) and dental services (40% vs 12%). Reports show that mental health was a top concern for students increased from 15% before the pandemic to 27% (P < .001). Support from families and school staff were identified by most respondents (86% and 83%, respectively) as very important for the delivery of school‐based health services.

CONCLUSIONS

Schools reported delivering fewer health services to students during the 2020‐2021 school year and heightened concern about students' mental health. Understanding what schools need to deliver health services can assist state and local education and health officials and promote child health.
UK dogs eating raw meat diets have higher risk of Salmonella and antimicrobial‐resistant Escherichia coli faecal carriage
Authors: Groat E. F. , Williams N. J. , Pinchbeck G. , Warner B. , Simpson A. , Schmidt V. M.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To compare detection of Salmonella species and antimicrobial‐resistant Escherichia coli in the faeces of dogs eating raw meat or non‐raw diets and examine risk factors for their carriage.

Materials and Methods

Canine faecal samples (raw fed n=114; non‐raw fed n=76) were collected from May to July 2015 from across the UK. Enrichment and selective culture and biochemical and PCR assays were used to identify isolates. Escherichia coli underwent susceptibility testing to a range of antimicrobials, including third‐generation cephalosporins; PCR assays were used to detect antimicrobial‐resistant genes. Questionnaires were used to collect data on independent variables as risks for antimicrobial‐resistant (resistant to ≥1 tested antimicrobial), multi‐drug‐resistant (resistant to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) and third‐generation cephalosporin resistant Escherichia coli.

Results

Antimicrobial‐resistant, multi‐drug‐resistant and third‐generation cephalosporin resistant Escherichia coli were significantly more likely to be detected in raw fed (54, 25 and 31%, respectively) compared to non‐raw fed (17, 4 and 4%, respectively) dogs; Salmonella species were detected in eight (4%) raw fed dogs only.

Clinical Significance

Raw fed dogs may be a source of Salmonella species and Escherichia coli, resistant to highest priority critically important antimicrobials, representing a potential animal welfare and public health issue. Owners should be aware of the risks, especially households with members, both human and canine, who are very young, elderly or immunocompromised.
The unexpected power of negative awards
Authors: Celse Jérémy , Frey Bruno S. , Grolleau Gilles , Mzoughi Naoufel
Published: February 2022

We characterize negative awards. Their pervasiveness in various domains as well as the objectives of their designers and promoters are documented. We discuss the outcomes generated by negative awards and provide some rationales explaining why individuals and organizations may be interested in getting them. Several issues deserve further exploration.
Mechanical–transport–chemical modeling of electrochemical repair methods for corrosion‐induced cracking in marine concrete
Authors: Meng Zhaozheng , Liu Qing‐feng , Xia Jin , Cai Yuxin , Zhu Xingji , Zhou Yu , Pel Leo
Published: February 2022

Reinforced concrete structures exposed to marine environments often experience chloride ingress, reinforcement corrosion, and corrosion‐induced cracking. The electrochemical repair method is a promising concrete rehabilitation technique with advantages of non‐destructive and economic performance in crack repair, chloride removal, and corrosion protection, which is particularly suitable for structures exposed to marine environments. This work presents an innovative methodology for modeling the mechanical, transport, and chemical process during electrochemical treatment for marine concrete structures. The entire process from concrete cracking up to repairing can be successfully reproduced and digitally visualized. The first sub‐model calculates the corrosion‐induced cracking process at the mesoscopic level with the consideration of local mechanical variances of concrete composites. Then, a reactive transport sub‐model is established to reveal the interactions and electrochemical reactions among various species of ions. A crack repair sub‐model is built to visualize the moving interface between chemical deposition and crack surface. Through combining the three sub‐models, the interconnected influencing factors in practical engineering can be quantitively investigated. The calculation results show that, compared with electrolyte concentration, the influence of current density on crack closure rates are more obvious. Other factors such as steel reinforcement diameter and crack distribution pattern, which have not been previously reported are highlighted. These findings can guide the application of electrochemical repair in practical engineering.
Elbow Dislocation with Irretrievable Rotating‐Rope Injury of the Forearm: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wang Jian‐chuan , Qin Song , Wang Zong‐pu
Published: February 2022

Background

Simultaneous dislocation of the elbow, radioulnar joint and proximal radius fracture with rotary noose injury to the medial ulna tubercle is extremely rare. An emergency surgery was performed to reduce it. The radial head with the backbone was reset after two hammers were fixed, then the radial capitulum safety was fixed with a locking plate. After the ulnar instability was examined, two Kirschner wires were drilled percutaneously to fix the elbow flexion at 100° under closed reduction, and two Kirschner wires were drilled percutaneously to fix the ulnar joint. Good follow‐up results were achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on this particular type of injury and on this approach to treating this type of injury.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 36‐year‐old male, who extended and landed on his left hand to protect his child in right arm before felling, resulting in severe pain and deformity of his left elbow and wrist and loss of movement in these joints. X‐ray examination found proximal distal radioulnar joints, a proximal radial fracture and a dislocation bowstring in the ulna nodule. For a timely diagnosis in an emergency open reduction situation, accurate judgment of this injury is highly important. After 12 months of postoperative follow‐up, the patient was symptom‐free, and radiographs showed fracture healing.

Conclusion

We performed emergency reduction and internal fixation of the elbow and successfully saved elbow function, no stability decrease and movement restriction. This case also provides a new reference for the treatment of this type of elbow fracture dislocation.
Trapped p waves causing loss of physiological left bundle branch pacing
Authors: de Castro Daniel , Aguilera‐Agudo Cristina , Castro‐Urda Víctor , Toquero Jorge , Jimenez‐Sanchez Diego , Vela‐Martín Paula , Veloza‐Urrea Darwin , Fernandez‐Lozano Ignacio , García‐Izquierdo Eusebio
Published: February 2022

We present the case of a 75‐year‐old woman with severe aortic stenosis and moderate left ventricular dysfunction, who underwent elective transcatheter aortic valve replacement. After the procedure, the patient developed a left bundle branch block and a long PR interval. For this reason, a dual chamber pacemaker with pacing in the left bundle branch area was implanted. On device interrogation, we confirmed the presence of functional atrial undersensing causing loss of ventricular electric resynchronization. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this problem and, by means of device reprogramming and pharmacological intervention, suggests a stepwise approach to solve it.
Determinants of preference for future living arrangement in disabled elders: a cross‐sectional study of elderly residents in Kunshan, China
Authors: Zhang Juan , Wang Zhuo , Lin Lu , Huang Jian , Dong Yanan , Li Huiling
Published: February 2022

Background

The rapid increase in the number of disabled elders and great economic and social changes call for a synchronised development of long‐term care services. The aim of this study was to identify the factors determining the preference for future living arrangements, forecasting the demand for long‐term care services.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Kunshan between June and July 2018. The stratified sampling method was used in this survey. The multinomial logistic regression model was used to explore the influencing factors.

Results

The most preferred future living arrangement was to live at home. Individual income, number of children alive, life satisfaction and medical insurance were significantly associated with the preference for future living arrangement.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that home‐based long‐term care should be promoted to meet the expectations of the elderly and caregivers, and special attention should be given to the elderly with low individual income.
Emergency risk communication and sensemaking during smoke events: A survey of practitioners
Authors: Thomas Madeleine , Klemm Celine , Hutchins Brett , Kaufman Stefan
Published: February 2022

Emergency risk communication (ERC) for smoke emitted from major fires continues to challenge governments. During these events, practitioners (including scientific, communication, and emergency response government staff) are tasked with quickly making sense of the public health risks and the communication options available. Practitioners’ sensemaking—the process of creating meaning from information about an unfolding emergency—is key to effective ERC. This article identifies the factors that ERC practitioners consider the most important to their sensemaking for smoke events. A survey of practitioners (n = 86) was conducted to elicit their views on the level of importance of 22 different factors (individual, organizational, and contextual) on their sensemaking. The results indicate that the majority of the factors tested are very important to practitioners. This finding likely reflects the multidimensional nature of emergency smoke events and provides evidence as to why practitioners are challenged when trying to make sense of emergency situations. Despite multiple factors being considered very important to practitioners, the time‐limited nature of emergencies means that practitioners will inevitability be forced to prioritize in their sensemaking efforts. Our results also provide insight into practitioners’ prioritization of different information sources. Specifically, practitioners prioritize their own knowledge and the knowledge of other practitioners. The two most important factors were information from other incident management stakeholders and the practitioners’ past experience. Other information, including community‐based and academic knowledge, appear to be of lower priority for practitioners. Based on the study results, recommendations for practice and future research are discussed.
Revisiting the accuracy of inflation forecasts in Nigeria: The oil price–exchange rate–asymmetry perspectives1
Authors: Isah Kazeem O. , Mahomedy Abdulkader C. , Udeaja Elias A. , Adelakun Ojo J. , Yakubu Yusuf , Musa Danmecca
Published: February 2022

Motivated by the distinctive paradoxical nature of the Nigerian economy as the only OPEC oil‐exporting economy that yet depends heavily on the importation of gasoline, we are compelled to re‐examine the accuracy of the oil‐based augmented Philips curve model in the predictability of inflation. Using quarterly data from 1970 to 2020, we investigate whether extending the oil price‐based augmented Phillips curve to include exchange rate improves the accuracy of inflation forecast in Nigeria. We rely on the outcomes of our preliminary analysis to account for the presence of endogeneity, persistence and conditional heteroscedasticity in the predictability of inflation following the Westerlund and Narayan (2015) procedure. We find the extended variant of the oil price‐based Phillips curve model that includes the exchange rate pass‐through as most accurate for improving inflation forecasts in Nigeria. Given the robustness of our results from several models, we conclude that the exchange rate channel through which shocks to the oil price transmit into the economy is essential for enhancing the accuracy of inflation forecasts.
Legacy phosphorus in calcareous soil under 33 years of P fertilizer application: Implications for efficient P management in agriculture
Authors: Zhang Licun , Chen Jiajie , Chu Guixin
Published: February 2022

Phosphorus (P) fertilizers have long been applied in agriculture. However, the influence of long‐term P addition on the evolution of soil P fertility and legacy P characteristics have not been well‐documented. Herein, literature data were collected from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Database (CNKI) to explore the evolution of soil P fertility after 33 years of application of P fertilizer; different soil samples were collected from cropland and adjacent uncultivated land to analyse the distribution of P fractions at different soil depths (0–0.8 m) using Guppy's sequential P extraction method. We found that soil Olsen‐P significantly increased by 3.6‐fold (from 7.2 mg kg−1in 1981 to 25.9 mg kg−1in 2013) after 33 years of P application, while total P increased slightly. The ratios of inorganic P fractions in cropland to those uncultivated land followed NaHCO3‐P (1.47) > NaOH‐P (1.38) > resin‐P (1.37) > residue‐P (1.17) > HCl‐P (1.11), suggesting that long‐term P addition contributed more to labile and moderately labile P rather than non‐labile P. Moreover, a principal component analysis could distinguish between cropland and uncultivated land, indicating that long‐term application of P fertilizer changed soil P characteristics. Compared to uncultivated land, soil NaHCO3‐P in cropland was closely associated with soil organic C, total nitrogen and carbonate. Collectively, our findings highlight that soil legacy P was notably increased after long‐term of P application, and a large portion of the applied P remained in labile and moderately labile forms. Therefore, soil legacy P can be recommended as a useful P management tool.
Noninvasive diagnostics of fetal KEL*01.01 allele from maternal plasma of immunized women using digital PCR protocols
Authors: Orzińska Agnieszka , Krzemienowska Magdalena , Purchla‐Szepioła Sylwia , Kopeć Izabella , Guz Katarzyna
Published: February 2022

Allo‐antibodies produced by K‐negative pregnant women against a fetal K antigen from the Kell blood group system may cause hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Predicting the fetal K antigen using noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is important for decisions concerning management of pregnancies. Digital and droplet digital PCR techniques permit the detection of fetal single nucleotide variant with a higher specificity and sensitivity than real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Aim

The aim was to evaluate and compare protocols for fetal KEL*01.01 genotyping using different assays and digital PCR platforms.

Methods

DNA isolated from 59 pregnant women (9–39 weeks of gestation, 49 with anti‐K) was tested using home‐made and custom‐ordered KEL*01.01/KEL*02 assays with Droplet Digital™ and QuantStudio™3D. The results were compared with fetal/neonatal genotypes/phenotypes.

Results

Fetal KEL*01.01 results using all tested protocols were concordant with fetal/neonatal KEL*01.01 genotypes/phenotypes. None of the tested combinations of assays or digital PCR platforms gave false KEL*01.01‐negative results, but inconclusive KEL*01.01 reads were observed in all tested protocols. For 36 cases compared using two digital PCR platforms and assays, there were not statistically significant differences in a level of fetal KEL*01.01 fraction (p < .72).

Conclusion

Independent of the applied dPCR and ddPCR platforms and KEL*01.01 assays, prediction of the fetal KEL*01.01 is highly reliable. Before implementation in routine practice further validation of the KEL*01.01 protocol with a larger group of pregnant women should be performed.
Response of theVCMVetviscoelastic coagulation monitor to veterinary environmental simulation challenges
Authors: Hindmarsh Dalton D. , Rutter Christine R. , Pugnetti Viktoria D. , Jeffery Unity
Published: February 2022

Background

Traditional viscoelastic clotting tests are significantly impacted by the operator and environmental variation. The VCMVet coagulation monitor could provide a more user‐friendly alternative for veterinary practices.

Objectives

We aimed to determine if environmental vibration commonly encountered in veterinary practice alters the results of a point‐of‐care viscoelastic device, the VCMVet.

Methods

Nine fresh whole blood samples from healthy dogs were evaluated simultaneously using VCMVet instruments under four environmental conditions: (normal) alone and undisturbed on a raised tabletop, (centrifuge) on a countertop 6 inches from a centrifuge that operated at 12 000 rpm for 10 minutes every 20 minutes, (workspace) on a tabletop workspace in proximity to two heavy‐use computers, and (gurney) on a rolling gurney at a walking pace for 10 minutes every 20 minutes. Results were compared between conditions using a Friedman test, and if this was significant (P‐value < .05), it was followed by a Wilcoxon test for paired samples.

Results

Analysis of samples on a rolling gurney created obvious movement artifacts, and this condition was excluded from statistical analysis. The centrifuge condition resulted in a significantly higher alpha angle (median 49 degrees, interquartile range 4) than the normal condition (median 46 degrees, interquartile range 5,P= .0078). Other viscoelastic parameters were not significantly different between the normal, centrifuge, and workspace conditions.

Conclusions

The VCMVet is suitable for use in a busy veterinary environment but should be protected from vibration. The instrument does not produce reliable results when operated on a moving gurney, and it should be stationary during sample analysis.
Perfect low-frequency sound absorption of rough neck embedded Helmholtz resonators
Authors: Zhang Lei , Xin Fengxian
Published: February 2022

In this paper, an acoustic metamaterial, composed of rough neck embedded Helmholtz resonators, is proposed to achieve perfect sound absorption in the low-frequency range. The wall shape of the embedded neck in Helmholtz resonators can be adjusted to improve the low-frequency sound absorption performance of acoustic metamaterials. As a concern, a full-rough neck embedded Helmholtz resonator (FR-NEHR) is designed, which achieves perfect sound absorption (α>0.999) with a deep subwavelength thickness (λ/44) at 150 Hz. A theoretical model is developed to predict the performance of the FR-NEHR, which is validated against the experimental measurement and numerical simulation. The results show that for the rough embedded neck, when the axial and circumferential roughness of the neck exist, the sound energy dissipation increases not only in the neck but also in the air cavity. As a result, the acoustic absorption peak value of the FR-NEHR increases 20.2%, and the peak position shifts 20.2% to a lower frequency. This work extends Maa's 50-year-old sound absorption theory from smooth channels to full-rough channels, further developing the traditional channel sound absorption theory. It provides useful guidance for the structural design of broadband low-frequency sound-absorbing metamaterials.
Burgers equation and convexification method: Propagation of wave packets and narrowband noise
Authors: Béquin Philippe
Published: February 2022

The Burgers equation is a standard model for the propagation of progressive finite amplitude waves in a lossy medium. This paper is mainly devoted to the one-dimensional Burgers equation and its solution deduced from a convexification method. Its starting point is the Hopf-Cole solution in the inviscid limit, then the Legendre-Fenchel transform and the convex envelope construction are employed to obtain the single-value waveform. A fractional step method is used to numerically solve the Burgers equation in a segregated manner (nonlinearity and dissipation). Numerical results are obtained for nonlinear propagation of a wave packet with a Gaussian envelope and a narrowband noise (deterministic and non-deterministic signals). The convexification method provides a tool to solve the problems of nonlinear propagation, especially in the case of noise propagation with the formation and interaction (coalescence) of a large number of discontinuities (shocks).
Early Sport Specialization in College Athletes and the Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Burwell Matthew , DiSanti Justin , Valovich McLeod Tamara C.
Published: February 2022

Clinical Scenario: Youth athletes may specialize in a sport of their choosing, or based on external pressures, to pursue elite status in that sport. Current evidence shows an association between highly specialized athletes and an increase in injuries as well as a connection between injury and lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Clinical Question: In college athletes, do early sport specialization characteristics (ie, age at specialization and degree of specialization) impact current HRQOL? Summary of Key Findings: The literature was searched for studies that investigated the age of specialization (early vs late) or degree of specialization (high, moderate, and low) and the impact on HRQOL. (1) The search returned 6 possible studies related to the clinical question. Three of the studies met the inclusion criteria and were used for this appraisal. (2) Two of the 3 included studies reported that highly specialized athletes noted lower HRQOL. (3) One study found there to be no significant difference in HRQOL between athletes who specialized early versus late but did find those who specialized early to have a greater incidence of injuries that required surgery. Clinical Bottom Line: There is moderate evidence that early sport specialization is associated with lower HRQOL compared with late sport specialization. It is important to educate athletes, parents, and coaches on the potential detriments that are associated with early sport specialization to allow stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding participation. Strength of Recommendation: Grade B evidence exists to support the idea that early, intensive sport specialization may be associated with decreased HRQOL in current college athletes.
Piquing our interest: Insights into the role of PEAK3 in signaling and disease
Authors: Paul Michael D. , Torosyan Hayarpi , Jura Natalia
Published: February 2022

Pseudokinases are critical signaling hubs that are increasingly appreciated as important disease targets. In this issue of
Science Signaling
, Hou
et al.
bring new insights into the signaling mechanisms of the pseudokinase PEAK3 by characterizing its epidermal growth factor–dependent interactome and demonstrating oncogenic effects of PEAK3 overexpression.
Complete Genome Sequence of Xanthomonas campestris pv.
campestris
SB80, a Race 4 Strain Isolated from White Head Cabbage in Turkey
Authors: Erken Meral Songül , Bibi Shaheen , Díaz Rodríguez Carlos Andrés , Menković Jelena , Bernal Adriana J. , Koebnik Ralf
Published: February 2022

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of the race 4 strain
Xanthomonas campestris
pv.
campestris
SB80, which was isolated from a symptomatic white head cabbage leaf in Samsun Province, Turkey, in 2019. The genome consists of a circular chromosome (5,129,762 bp) with a G+C content of 64.98%, for which 4,159 putative protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA operons, 54 tRNAs, and 86 noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) were predicted.
Cross-sectional prospective feasibility study of newborn screening for sickle cell anaemia and congenital hypothyroidism in Guyana
Authors: Alladin Bibi Areefa , Mohamed-Rambaran Pheona , Grey Vijay , Hunter Andrea , Chakraborty Pranesh , Henderson Matthew , Milburn Jennifer , Tessier Laurie
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Newborn screening (NBS) is a test done shortly after birth to detect conditions that cause severe health problems if not treated early. An estimated 71% of babies worldwide are born in jurisdictions that do not have an established NBS programme. Guyana currently has no NBS programme and has established a partnership with Newborn Screening Ontario (NSO) to initiate screening.

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of implementing a NBS programme in Guyana for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) and haemoglobinopathies (HBG) and to report on screen positive rates and prevalence (Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE)) for CH and HBG.

Methods

Term, healthy Guyanese infants were evaluated (with consent) using heel prick dried blood spots (DBS) shortly after birth (closer to 24 hours of life). DBS samples were analysed at NSO. Screening test for CH was done using a human thyroid-stimulating hormone (hTSH) assay. Mean hTSH levels between the Guyanese sample and the Ontarian population were compared using Student’s t-test with an alpha of 0.05. Screening test for HBG was performed with a cation-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography.

Results

The pilot was conducted from 6 June 2016 to 22 September 2017. Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation recruited 2294 mothers/infants. Screen positive rate for CH in our sample was 0.0% (0/2038 infants). Mean TSH levels in Guyanese samples (1.7 µU/mL blood) was noticed to be significantly different than in the Ontarian population (4.3 µU/mL blood) (p<0.05). Screen positive rate for sickle cell anaemia (SCA) in our sample was 0.3% (7/2039 patients), and the carrier rate was 8.4% (172/2039 patients). Using the HWE, the SCA frequency (S allele frequency)2 is 0.0492=0.002

Conclusion

NBS for CH and SCA in Guyana could be beneficial. Future work should focus on conducting larger pilots which could be used to inform diagnosis and treatment guidelines for Guyanese people.
Rebalancing the research equation in Africa: principles and process
Authors: Edwards Cathryn M , Suliman Ahmed A A , Taylor-Robinson Simon , Corrah Tumani
Published: February 2022

Background

Many examples of research excellence in Africa have been driven by partnerships led by the global North and have involved localised infrastructure improvements to support the best of international research practice.

Objective

In this article, we explore a possible mechanism by which local research networks, appropriately governed, could begin to support national African research programmes by allying research delivery to clinical service.

This article explores the concept that sustainable research effort needs a well-trained and mentored workforce, working to common standards, but which is practically supported by a much developed information technology (IT) infrastructure throughout the continent.

Conclusions

The balance of investment and ownership of such a research programme needs to be shared between local and international funding, with the emphasis on developing global South–South collaborations and research strategies which address the environmental impact of medical research activity and mitigate the impact of climate change on African populations. Healthcare must be embedded in the post-COVID-19 approach to research development.
SPEAKS study: study protocol of a multisite feasibility trial of the Specialist Psychotherapy with Emotion for Anorexia in Kent and Sussex (SPEAKS) intervention for outpatients with anorexia nervosa or otherwise specified feeding and eating disorders, anorexia nervosa type
Authors: Oldershaw Anna , Lavender Tony , Basra Randeep , Startup Helen
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe mental health condition associated with high mortality rates and significantly impaired quality of life. National guidelines outline psychotherapeutic interventions as treatments of choice for adults with AN, but outcomes are limited and therapy drop-out high, resulting in calls for new innovative treatments. The Specialist Psychotherapy with Emotion for Anorexia in Kent and Sussex (SPEAKS) research programme sought to develop the SPEAKS intervention avoiding some difficulties inherent in development of earlier interventions, such unclear hypotheses about change processes. SPEAKS focuses on a core hypothesised maintaining factor (emotional experience) with clear proposed model of change. The current feasibility trial aims to provide an initial test of SPEAKS and inform design of a full randomised controlled trial protocol.

Methods and analysis

This study employs a multisite, single-arm, within-group, mixed-methods design. Up to 60 participants (36 therapy completers) meeting inclusion criteria will be offered the SPEAKS intervention instead of treatment-as-usual (TAU). SPEAKS is a weekly psychotherapy lasting nine to 12 months, provided by trained and experienced eating disorders therapists. All other clinical input remains inline with TAU. Acceptability will be assessed using VAS scales and end of therapy interview. Reach and recruitment, such as recruitment yield, will be monitored. To support sample size estimation and economic estimation, data pertaining to eating disorder-related symptoms will be recorded every 3 months, alongside service usage and intervention-specific measures. Videoed therapy sessions will inform model adherence. Additional analyses coding videoed therapy will test SPEAKS change process hypotheses.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by London–Bromley Research Ethics Committee (NHS Rec Reference: 19/LO/1530). Data will be disseminated via high-impact, peer-reviewed journals (Open Access preferred), conferences, service user and charity networks (eg, UK charity BEAT) and through a free open conference hosted by National Health Service Trusts and Higher Education Institutions.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN11778891.

Trial status

Recruitment began on 12 December 2019 and ends on 28 February 2021. All data will be collected and the trial ended by 28 February 2022.

Protocol version

SPEAKS protocol V.3.0 (30 August 2020). Changes were made to the original protocol due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A further set of changes were made to incorporate the measures of change processes, resulting in this being the third version of the protocol.
Measurement characteristics and correlates of HIV-related stigma among adults living with HIV: a cross-sectional study from coastal Kenya
Authors: Wanjala Stanley W , Nyongesa Moses K , Mwangi Paul , Mutua Agnes M , Luchters Stanley , Newton Charles R J C , Abubakar Amina
Published: February 2022

Objective

We studied the psychometric properties of the 12-item short version of the Berger HIV stigma scale and assessed the correlates of HIV-related stigma among adults living with HIV on the Kenyan coast.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Comprehensive Care and Research Centre in the Kilifi County Hospital.

Participants

Adults living with HIV on combination antiretroviral therapy were recruited and interviewed between February and April 2018 (n=450).

Main outcome measures

HIV-related stigma.

Results

450 participants with a median age of 43 years (IQR=36–50) took part in the study. Of these, 356 (79.1%) were female. Scale reliability and validity were high (alpha=0.80, test–retest reliability intraclass correlation coefficient=0.92). Using confirmatory factor analysis, we observed that the 12-item short version of the HIV stigma scale had a good fit for its hypothesised model (Comparative Fit Index=0.966, Tucker Lewis Index=0.955, root mean square error of approximation=0.044). Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis indicated measurement invariance across gender and age groups as ΔCFI was ≤0.01. Multivariate linear regression established that being female (β=2.001, 95% CI: 0.21 to 3.80, p=0.029), HIV status non-disclosure (β=4.237, 95% CI: 1.27 to 7.20, p=0.005) and co-occurrence of depressive and anxiety symptoms (β=6.670, 95% CI: 3.40 to 9.94, p<0.001) were significant predictors of perceived HIV-related stigma and that these variables accounted for 10.2% of the explained variability in HIV-related stigma among adults living with HIV from Kilifi.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the 12-item short version of the HIV stigma scale is a valid and reliable measure of HIV stigma in Kenya. Furthermore, our study indicates that interventions aimed at reducing stigma need to take into account gender to address the specific needs of women, people who have not disclosed their HIV status, and those exhibiting symptoms of depression and anxiety, thereby improving their quality of life.
Post-traumatic stress disorder psychological interventions in sub-Saharan Africa: protocol for a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Ntlantsana Vuyokazi , Molebatsi Keneilwe , Mashaphu Sibongile , Chiliza Bonginkosi , Akena Dickens
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Untreated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) results in considerable morbidity and higher risk of mortality. However, little is being done to treat PTSD in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) settings where rates of PTSD are likely to be elevated due to mass exposure of the population to traumatic events. This systematic review aims to summarise available evidence on the efficacy of psychological therapies for PTSD in SSA.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search of the literature will be conducted in four electronic databases: PubMed, PsychInfo, EMBASE and Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials using keywords and synonyms related to ‘PTSD’, ‘psychological therapies’ and ‘SSA’. Studies will be included if they were conducted in SSA and used a randomised controlled trial design. Two researchers will screen the studies for eligibility to be included, and data on intervention types, population, comorbidities, comparison group intervention and PTSD outcomes will be extracted from those included. Risk of bias will be assessed using Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (version 2). Narrative synthesis of data will be conducted and pooled effect estimates calculated.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this is a protocol of a systematic review of available data. Findings will be disseminated to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications and presentation at conferences.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42020181638.
Associations between use of psychotropic medications and use of hormonal contraception among girls and women aged 15–49 years in Finland: a nationwide, register-based, matched case–control study
Authors: Toffol Elena , Partonen Timo , Heikinheimo Oskari , But Anna , Latvala Antti , Haukka Jari
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The relationship between the use of contraception and of psychiatric medications is understudied. We examined whether the current and past use of psychotropic medications is associated with the use and type of hormonal contraception (HC).

Design

Nationwide register-based matched case–control study.

Settings

All fertile-aged (15–49 years) girls and women living in Finland in 2017; data from several national registers.

Participants

294 356 girls and women with a redeemed prescription of HC in 2017, and their same-sized control group of non-users (n=294 356) identified through the Prescription Centre.

Main outcome measures

Associations between the use of psychotropic medications and the use of HC, and the type of HC tested in logistic regression models.

Results

Altogether 19.5% of the HC users, and 18% of the HC non-users received at least one prescription for a psychotropic medication in 2017. Among HC users, the proportions of occasional and regular users of psychotropic medications in 2013–2016 were 4.5% and 14.8%, while among HC non-users the respective figures were 4.3% and 14.6%, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression models both the use of psychotropic medications in 2017, and their occasional or regular use between 2013–2016 were associated with higher odds of HC use, although with small to very small effect sizes (ORs between 1.37 and 1.06 and 95% CIs 1.22 to 1.53, and 1.03 to 1.09, respectively). After adjustment for covariates, when fixed combinations of progestogens and oestrogens for systemic use was the reference category, women using almost any class of psychotropic medications had higher odds of using other types of HC.

Conclusions

Fertile-aged girls and women with current and past use of psychotropic medications have higher odds of using HC, with a specific pattern in the type of contraceptives used. Further research is warranted to examine whether our observations indicate a reduction of unwanted pregnancies in women with psychiatric disorders.
Body composition and chemotherapy toxicity in women with early breast cancer (CANDO-3): protocol for an observational cohort study
Authors: Durkin Kesta , Heetun Adam , Ewings Sean , Munday Richard , Wootton Stephen A , Turner Lesley , Copson Ellen R ,   CANDO-3 Steering Group, Cutress Ramsey I
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Systemic anticancer therapy is given to selected patients with early breast cancer (EBC) before or after surgery with the aim of eradicating micrometastatic spread and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. Chemotherapy treatment is most effective when patients receive the optimum dose, on time and without delays or reductions in their treatment doses. Most chemotherapy drugs are dosed according to body surface area calculated from a patient’s height and weight. These calculations were however designed based on data from normal weight patients. This has resulted in uncertainty as to the optimal dosing for patients with different amounts of blood, muscle and fatty tissue (body composition). This study uses segmental bioelectrical impedance analysis (using the Seca mBCA 515) to determine whether differences in the measures of resistance and reactance, and derived estimates of body composition, are predictive of chemotherapy toxicity in the treatment of EBC.

Methods and analysis

A prospective observational cohort study of women with EBC in whom adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy is planned. A total of 300 participants will be recruited across nine UK hospital sites. The primary outcome is to determine if higher fat mass index is associated with increased National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0 grade 3 (or higher) chemotherapy toxicity.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received ethical approval from the South Central Hampshire B Research Ethics Committee, England (19/SC/0596: IRAS: 263666). The chief investigator and coinvestigators will be responsible for publication of the study findings in a peer-reviewed journal, on behalf of all collaborators.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN79577461.