bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE EFFECT OF THREE DEPTHS OF SUBSURFACE DRIP IRRIGATION LEVELS WITH TWO TYPES OF SOIL ON THE PERCENTAGE OF SOIL MOISTURE CONTENT
Authors: Hameed Alaa Imad , Faris Salim Ahmed
Published: June 2022

The experiment was carried out in the educational nursery field of Department of Plant Production Technologies / Mosul Technical Institute during the agricultural season 2019-2020, to study two factors; the first is studying the effect of three depths, 5 cm (T1), 10 cm (T2) and 15 cm (T3), using Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI) The second factor is studying two types of sandy and silty loam soil on the soil moisture content and on some characteristics of the vegetative growth and yield of radish plants. The results show that the best depth of subsurface irrigation pipes was at treatment T3 (15 cm), where the highest values of moisture content at treatment T3, and the percentage of increase of the humidity before and after irrigation when the treatment (T1, T2, T3) is (10%, 12%, 16.3%) for the silty loam soil. As for sandy soils, it is shown that the percentage  increase of moisture before and after irrigation when the treatment (T1, T2, T3) is ( 11.6%, 16%, 22.9%); meaning that the highest increase of moisture content is at Treatment T3, and this is due to evaporation from the ground surface decreases as the depth of wet soil increases, as well as the depth of 15 cm provides a direct connection of water to the plant root area, and the results show that the best depth is for subsurface irrigation pipes 15 cm, i.e. treatment T3 in terms  root weight and diameter root, plant height, leaves number, and total yield.
Effects of Cutting Force on Formation of Subsurface Damage During Nano-Cutting of Single-Crystal Tungsten
Authors: Wang Hao , Guo Xiaoguang , Dong Zhigang , Yuan Song , Bao Yan , Kang Renke
Published: June 2022

Single-crystal tungsten is widely utilized in various fields, benefiting from its outstanding properties. Nano-cutting, as an ultra-precision machining method, can realize high efficiency and low damage. However, from the atomic perspective, the formation mechanism of subsurface damage during the nano-cutting of tungsten is still unclear. Herein, the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of nano-cutting single-crystal tungsten was established to elucidate the evolution of subsurface damage and the effects of cutting force on subsurface damage. The corresponding results showed the existence of damage including atomic cluster, vacancy defect, “V-shaped” dislocation, stair-rod dislocation, and dislocation ring on the subsurface during the cutting. There were dislocation lines in 1/2<111>, <100>, <110>, and other directions due to plastic deformation dominated by dislocation slip, and the 1/2<111> dislocation lines could be merged into stable <100> dislocation lines under certain circumstances during the cutting. The variation of cutting force and cutting force fluctuation induced by changing cutting parameters had a great influence on the subsurface damage of tungsten, including the number of surface defect atoms, dislocation density, and thickness of the subsurface damage layer. In nano-cutting of single-crystal tungsten, a smaller cutting depth and appropriate cutting speed should be selected to reduce subsurface damage. This study provides an insight into the evolution mechanism of subsurface damage of tungsten and is high of significance for achieving low-damage machining of tungsten components.
Study on Model Evolution Method Based on the Hybrid Modeling Technology With Support Vector Machine for an SOFC-GT System
Authors: Chen Jinwei , Sun Shengnan , Chen Yao , Zhang Huisheng , Lu Zhenhua
Published: June 2022

The mechanism models of solid oxide fuel cell–gas turbine (SOFC-GT) systems are very useful to analyze the thermodynamic performance details, including the internal complex transfers of mass, heat, and electrochemical processes. However, several physical-property parameters in the mechanism model are unmeasurable and difficult to accurately quantify from the operation data when the inevitable degradation occurs. As a result, it is difficult for the mechanism model to accurately capture the SOFC electrochemical characteristic during the full operating cycle. In this paper, a model evolution method based on hybrid modeling technology is proposed to address this problem. A hybrid modeling framework of a SOFC-GT system is designed by combining a least squares-support vector machine algorithm (LS-SVM) electrochemical model with our previous mechanism model. The electrochemical characteristic of SOFC is easily identified and evolved by re-training the LS-SVM model from operating data, no longer needing a mechanism electrochemical model. The validated full-mechanism model from our previous work is taken to simulate a physical SOFC-GT system to generate the operating data. Various LS-SVM models are trained by different data sets. The comparison results demonstrate that the LS-SVM model trained by large-size data set 3 performs the highest accuracy in predicting the local current density. The maximum absolute error of prediction is only about 1.379 A/m2, and the prediction mean square error of the normalized test data reaches 4.36 × 10−9. Then, the LS-SVM hybrid model is applied to evaluate the thermodynamic performance of a SOFC-GT system. The comparison results between the hybrid model and our previous full-mechanism model show that the hybrid model can accurately predict the SOFC-GT system performance. The maximum error is 1.97% at the design condition and 0.60% at off-design conditions. Therefore, the LS-SVM hybrid model is significant for accurately identifying the real electrochemical characteristic from operation data for a physical SOFC-GT system during the full operation cycle.
Investigation of Tyre Pattern Effect on the Aerodynamics of a Passenger Vehicle
Authors: Josefsson Erik , Hobeika Teddy , Sebben Simone , Urquhart Magnus
Published: June 2022

The wheels of a passenger vehicle are one of the major contributors to the total aerodynamic drag, making their aerodynamic performance a considerable factor for the overall energy efficiency of the vehicle. Previous studies have shown that the complex flow field created by the wheels is sensitive to small geometrical variations of the tyre and that features such as shoulder profile and tread pattern can have a significant impact on drag and lift. In this study, the DrivAer model is used to evaluate the flow fields and aerodynamics of four tyre tread patterns with two rim designs. Full-scale wind tunnel tests were conducted where forces, surface pressures and flow fields were measured. Numerical simulations were also performed to aid the analysis. Using a slick tyre as the reference, it was found that rain grooves typically reduced the drag, whereas the effect of lateral grooves was dependent on the rim configuration. For the lift forces, the largest lift variations were obtained for the front lift which, in general, was reduced by rain grooves and increased by lateral grooves, most notably for the closed rim. The importance of considering the parasitic lift force acting on the wheel drive units when comparing experiments and simulations was demonstrated.
Novel Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin Solutions to the Nonisentropic Helmholtz Equation in a Nonuniform Duct With Mean Temperature Gradient and Mean Flow
Authors: Basu Sattik , Rani Sarma L.
Published: June 2022

We derive the generalized Helmholtz equation (GHE) governing nonisentropic acoustic fluctuations in a quasi 1D duct with nonuniform cross section, mean temperature gradient, and nonuniform mean flow. Nonisentropic effects are included via heat conduction terms in the mean and fluctuating energy equations. To derive the Helmholtz equation exclusively in terms of the fluctuating pressure field, a relationship between density and pressure fluctuations is needed, which is shown to be a second-order differential equation for nonisentropic motions. Novel analytical solutions that are accurate for both low/high frequencies and small/large mean gradients are presented for the GHE based on the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) method. WKB solutions are developed using the ansatz that the pressure fluctuation field has a travelling wave form, p^(x)=exp[∫0x(a+ib)dx], where x is the axial coordinate. Substituting this form into the Helmholtz equation yields coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) for a and b. Analytical solutions to the ODEs are obtained using the approximations of high frequency and slowly varying mean properties. This simplification allows us to obtain the lower order solutions b0 and a0. We then enhance solution accuracy by using a0 to solve for b1 without any approximations. Finally, b1 is employed to get a1, giving us the higher order solution. The p^ calculated from (a1, b1) is in good to excellent agreement with numerical solution of the GHE for both low and high frequencies and for a range of mean Mach numbers, including M¯≳1.
Neurological Waardenburg-Shah syndrome: a diagnostic challenge in a child with skin hypopigmentation and neurological manifestation
Authors: Ng Benjamin Wei-Liang , Lee Jeffrey Soon-Yit , Toh Teck-Hock , Ngu Lock-Hock
Published: June 2022

Peripheral demyelinating neuropathy, central dysmyelinating leukodystrophy, Waardenburg syndrome and Hirschsprung disease (PCWH) is a rare manifestation of Waardenburg-Shah syndrome associated with mutations in theSOX10gene. The phenotypic expression is variable, thus presenting a diagnostic challenge. Clinical manifestations of PCWH may mimic other neurocutaneous syndromes. A thorough history, careful physical examination, appropriate imaging studies and an index of suspicion are needed to diagnose this condition. We describe an adolescent girl with skin hypopigmentation and blue irides associated with sensorineural hearing loss, Hirschsprung disease, as well as seizures with neurological signs, and discuss the challenges in diagnosing PCWH.
Macula structural and vascular differences in glaucoma eyes with and without high axial myopia
Authors: Rezapour Jasmin , Bowd Christopher , Dohleman Jade , Belghith Akram , Proudfoot James A , Christopher Mark , Hyman Leslie , Jonas Jost B , Penteado Rafaella C , Moghimi Sasan , Hou Huiyuan , El-Nimri Nevin W. , Micheletti Eleonora , Fazio Massimo A , Weinreb Robert N , Zangwill Linda M
Published: June 2022

Aims

To identify clinically relevant parameters for identifying glaucoma in highly myopic eyes, an investigation was conducted of the relationship between the thickness of various retinal layers and the superficial vessel density (sVD) of the macula with axial length (AL) and visual field mean deviation (VFMD).

Methods

270 glaucoma patients (438 eyes) participating in the Diagnostic Innovations in Glaucoma cross-sectional study representing three axial myopia groups (non-myopia: n=163 eyes; mild myopia: n=218 eyes; high myopia (AL>26 mm): n=57 eyes) who completed macular optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography imaging were included. Associations of AL and VFMD with the thickness of the ganglion cell inner plexiform layer (GCIPL), macular retinal nerve fibre layer (mRNFL), ganglion cell complex (GCC), macular choroidal thickness (mCT) and sVD were evaluated.

Results

Thinner Global GCIPL and GCC were significantly associated with worse VFMD (R2=34.5% and R2=32.9%; respectively p<0.001), but not with AL (all p>0.1). Thicker mRNFL showed a weak association with increasing AL (R2=2.4%; p=0.005) and a positive association with VFMD (global R2=19.2%; p<0.001). Lower sVD was weakly associated with increasing AL (R2=1.8%; p=0.028) and more strongly associated with more severe glaucoma VFMD (R2=29.6%; p<0.001). Thinner mCT was associated with increasing AL (R2=15.5% p<0.001) and not associated with VFMD (p=0.194). mRNFL was thickest while mCT was thinnest in all sectors of high myopic eyes.

Conclusions

As thinner GCIPL and GCC were associated with increasing severity of glaucoma but were not significantly associated with AL, they may be useful for monitoring glaucoma in highly myopic eyes.
Priority setting in early childhood development: an analytical framework for economic evaluation of interventions
Authors: Verguet Stéphane , Bolongaita Sarah , Morgan Anthony , Perumal Nandita , Sudfeld Christopher R , Yousafzai Aisha K , Fink Günther
Published: June 2022

Background

Early childhood development (ECD) sets the foundation for healthy and successful lives with important ramifications for education, labour market outcomes and other domains of well-being. Even though a large number of interventions that promote ECD have been implemented and evaluated globally, there is currently no standardised framework that allows a comparison of the relative cost-effectiveness of these interventions.

Methods

We first reviewed the existing literature to document the main approaches that have been used to assess the relative effectiveness of interventions that promote ECD, including early parenting and at-home psychosocial stimulation interventions. We then present an economic evaluation framework that builds on these reviewed approaches and focuses on the immediate impact of interventions on motor, cognitive, language and socioemotional skills. Last, we apply our framework to compute the relative cost-effectiveness of interventions for which recent effectiveness and costing data were published. For this last part, we relied on a recently published review to obtain effect sizes documented in a consistent manner across interventions.

Findings

Our framework enables direct value-for-money comparison of interventions across settings. Cost-effectiveness estimates, expressed in $ per units of improvement in ECD outcomes, vary greatly across interventions. Given that estimated costs vary by orders of magnitude across interventions while impacts are relatively similar, cost-effectiveness rankings are dominated by implementation costs and the interventions with higher value for money are generally those with a lower implementation cost (eg, psychosocial interventions involving limited staff).

Conclusions

With increasing attention and investment into ECD programmes, consistent assessments of the relative cost-effectiveness of available interventions are urgently needed. This paper presents a unified analytical framework to address this need and highlights the rather remarkable range in both costs and cost-effectiveness across currently available intervention strategies.
Evaluation on the effectiveness on the implementation of WHO caregiver skills training (CST) programme in Hong Kong: a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Wong Wai-Ching Paul , Chow Siu-Lun
Published: June 2022

Introduction

This protocol delineates the research design and analytical framework used to evaluate the effectiveness of the WHO-CST (CST, caregiver skills training) in Hong Kong. The WHO-CST aims to enhance the caregiver skills of parents of children with potential autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and/or developmental delays.

Methods and analysis

In this study, 130 eligible caregiver–child dyads were recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental and wait-list-control groups. A randomised controlled trial design was adopted to compare the changes between the two groups regarding caregivers’ skills, knowledge and practices when interacting with their children with impairments due to ASD. Assessments were conducted before, immediately after and 1 month after the completion of the WHO-CST programme. The primary measurement tool was the joint engagement rating inventory developed by WHO experts to gauge how parents engage their children. A 10-min video recording of their dyadic interaction and behaviours in a defined play setting was used for the measurement. A set of other measurements of caregivers’ knowledge, confidence and experience of using the caregiving skills were also measured.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was received from the Human Research Ethics Committee (EA1901033), The University of Hong Kong. The final findings of this study will be disseminated through public reports, peer-reviewed publication or at a conference launched for the WHO-CST programme.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2000034585.
A new and automated risk prediction of coronary artery disease using clinical endpoints and medical imaging-derived patient-specific insights: protocol for the retrospective GeoCAD cohort study
Authors: Adikari Dona , Gharleghi Ramtin , Zhang Shisheng , Jorm Louisa , Sowmya Arcot , Moses Daniel , Ooi Sze-Yuan , Beier Susann
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. More than a quarter of cardiovascular events are unexplained by current absolute cardiovascular disease risk calculators, and individuals without clinical risk factors have been shown to have worse outcomes. The ‘anatomy of risk’ hypothesis recognises that adverse anatomical features of coronary arteries enhance atherogenic haemodynamics, which in turn mediate the localisation and progression of plaques. We propose a new risk prediction method predicated on CT coronary angiography (CTCA) data and state-of-the-art machine learning methods based on a better understanding of anatomical risk for CAD. This may open new pathways in the early implementation of personalised preventive therapies in susceptible individuals as a potential key in addressing the growing burden of CAD.

Methods and analysis

GeoCAD is a retrospective cohort study in 1000 adult patients who have undergone CTCA for investigation of suspected CAD. It is a proof-of-concept study to test the hypothesis that advanced image-derived patient-specific data can accurately predict long-term cardiovascular events. The objectives are to (1) profile CTCA images with respect to variations in anatomical shape and associated haemodynamic risk expressing, at least in part, an individual’s CAD risk, (2) develop a machine-learning algorithm for the rapid assessment of anatomical risk directly from unprocessed CTCA images and (3) to build a novel CAD risk model combining traditional risk factors with these novel anatomical biomarkers to provide a higher accuracy CAD risk prediction tool.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the St Vincent’s Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee, Sydney—2020/ETH02127 and the NSW Population and Health Service Research Ethics Committee—2021/ETH00990. The project outcomes will be published in peer-reviewed and biomedical journals, scientific conferences and as a higher degree research thesis.
Healthcare utilization and related costs among older people seeking primary care due to back pain: findings from the BACE-N cohort study
Authors: Killingmo Rikke Munk , Storheim Kjersti , van der Windt Danielle , Zolic-Karlsson Zinajda , Vigdal Ørjan Nesse , Kretz Lise , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Grotle Margreth
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To describe healthcare utilization and estimate associated costs during 1 year of follow-up among older people seeking primary care due to a new episode back pain and to describe healthcare utilization across patients with different risk profiles stratified using the StarT Back Screening Tool (SBST).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Participants and setting

A total of 452 people aged ≥55 years seeking Norwegian primary care with a new episode of back pain were included.

Outcome measures

The primary outcome of this study was total cost of healthcare utilization aggregated for 1 year of follow-up. Secondary outcomes included components of healthcare utilization aggregated for 1 year of follow-up. Healthcare utilization was self-reported and included: primary care consultations, medications, examinations, hospitalisation, rehabilitation stay, and operations. Costs were estimated based on unit costs collected from national pricelists. Healthcare utilization across patients with different SBST risk profiles was compared using Kruskal-Wallis test, post hoc Mann-Whitney U tests and Bonferroni adjustment.

Results

In total, 438 patients were included in the analysis. Mean (BCa 95% CI) total cost per patient over 1 year was €825 (682-976). Median (BCa 95% CI) total cost was €364 (307-440). The largest cost category was primary care consultations, accounting for 56% of total costs. Imaging rate was 34%. The most commonly used medication was paracetamol (27%–35% of patients). Medium- and high-risk patients had a significantly higher degree of healthcare utilization compared with low-risk patients (p<0.030).

Conclusion

This study estimated a 1 year mean and median cost of healthcare utilization of €825 and €364, respectively. Patients within the top 25th percentile accounted for 77% of all costs. Patients classified as medium risk and high risk had a significantly higher degree of healthcare utilization compared with patients classified as low risk.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04261309, results
Determinants of handwashing practice and its associated factors among mothers of under-5 children in Kolladiba town, Northwest Ethiopia: cross-sectional study
Authors: Wolde Maereg , Abate Meshehsa , Mandefro Gebremeskel , Beru Ezedin , Kassahun Aysheshim , Tesema Getayeneh Antehunegn
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Handwashing is a single most preventive measure for reducing the spread of contagious diseases. Mothers serve as the children’s nurses and poor practice of simple hygiene increases the risk of the spread of diseases to under-5 children.

Objective

This study aimed at investigating the proportion of handwashing practice at critical times and associated factors among mothers of under-5 children in Kolladiba town, Northwest Ethiopia.

Design, Setting, participants and outcome measures

A community-based cross-sectional study design was carried out from 20 February 2020 to 12 March 2020, in Kolladiba town. A total of 334 mothers participated in this study. The study participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression was employed. A p<0.05 was used to declare statically significant variables.

Results

The proportion of good handwashing practice among mothers at critical times was 51.2% (95% CI 45.8% to 56.5%). In the multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, mothers who attained college and above (adjusted OR, AOR 4.93, 95% CI 1.28 to 19), knowledge of handwashing (AOR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.42), husband working in governmental organisation (AOR 0.17, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.76), husband working at private organisation (AOR 0.16, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.75), mercantile husbands (AOR 0.09, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.37), tap water supply (AOR 0.26, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.93) and handwashing facility adjacent to latrine (AOR 6.17, 95% CI 2.02 to 18.8) were significant factors.

Conclusion

Handwashing practice in kolladiba town among mothers at critical times was found to be low. Higher educational status, knowledge about handwashing practice and availability of handwashing facilities near the latrine, tap water source and husband occupation were significant factors. Thus, health awareness shall be given on the importance of handwashing practice with a due emphasis on mothers who do not attain higher education, with lower knowledge, who have tap water, working husbands and who do not have handwashing facilities near the latrine.
Global prevalence, treatment and outcome of tuberculosis and COVID-19 coinfection: a systematic review and meta-analysis (from November 2019 to March 2021)
Authors: Wang Quan , Guo Shasha , Wei Xiaolin , Dong Quanfang , Xu Ning , Li Hui , Zhao Jie , Sun Qiang
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 outbreak poses a significant threat to the patients with tuberculosis (TB). TB and COVID-19 (TB–COVID) coinfection means the disease caused by both Mycobacterium tuberculosis and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Currently, the prevalence status, treatment and outcomes of the coinfection are poorly characterised. We aimed to systematically review the evidence on this topic and provide comprehensive information to guide the control and treatment of TB–COVID coinfection.

Methods

An extensive screening was conducted using six electronic databases to search eligible studies from 1 November 2019 to 19 March 2021. Prevalence rate, treatment and outcomes of TB–COVID coinfection were extracted. Random-effects models were used to calculate mean fatality rates of coinfection with 95% CIs. The risks of bias were assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Study Reporting Prevalence Data and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Report. A meta-analysis was conducted for subgroups on in-hospital fatality rate.

Results

Forty-two studies were included into the analysis (35 case reports and 7 retrospective cohort studies). Nineteen countries reported coinfected patients, including high and low TB prevalence countries. The only study revealing prevalence rate came from West Cape Province, South Africa (people aged above 20 years, 0.04% until 1 June 2020 and 0.06% until 9 June 2020). The treatment regimens for coinfected patients were highly heterogeneous. The mean overall and in-hospital fatality rates of coinfection were 13.9% (95% CI: 1.6% to 26.2%) and 17.5% (95% CI: 8.9% to 26.0%). The mean in-hospital fatality rates for high-income countries (Italy and Argentina) and low/middle-income countries (LMICs) (India, Philippines, South Africa) were 6.5% (95% CI: −0.8% to ~13.9%) and 22.5% (95% CI: 19.0% to ~26.0%).

Conclusion

TB–COVID coinfection is common globally, and the coinfected patients suffer from higher fatality risk than patients with normal COVID-19. Outcomes shared significant differences between high-income countries and LMICs.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021253660.
Protocol for the development of a reporting guideline for causal and counterfactual prediction models in biomedicine
Authors: Xu Jie , Guo Yi , Wang Fei , Xu Hua , Lucero Robert , Bian Jiang , Prosperi Mattia
Published: June 2022

Introduction

While there are guidelines for reporting on observational studies (eg, Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology, Reporting of Studies Conducted Using Observational Routinely Collected Health Data Statement), estimation of causal effects from both observational data and randomised experiments (eg, A Guideline for Reporting Mediation Analyses of Randomised Trials and Observational Studies, Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials, PATH) and on prediction modelling (eg, Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis or Diagnosis), none is purposely made for deriving and validating models from observational data to predict counterfactuals for individuals on one or more possible interventions, on the basis of given (or inferred) causal structures. This paper describes methods and processes that will be used to develop a Reporting Guideline for Causal and Counterfactual Prediction Models (PRECOG).

Methods and analysis

PRECOG will be developed following published guidance from the Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research (EQUATOR) network and will comprise five stages. Stage 1 will be meetings of a working group every other week with rotating external advisors (active until stage 5). Stage 2 will comprise a systematic review of literature on counterfactual prediction modelling for biomedical sciences (registered in Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews). In stage 3, a computer-based, real-time Delphi survey will be performed to consolidate the PRECOG checklist, involving experts in causal inference, epidemiology, statistics, machine learning, informatics and protocols/standards. Stage 4 will involve the write-up of the PRECOG guideline based on the results from the prior stages. Stage 5 will seek the peer-reviewed publication of the guideline, the scoping/systematic review and dissemination.

Ethics and dissemination

The study will follow the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The study has been registered in EQUATOR and approved by the University of Florida’s Institutional Review Board (#202200495). Informed consent will be obtained from the working groups and the Delphi survey participants. The dissemination of PRECOG and its products will be done through journal publications, conferences, websites and social media.
Development and validation of a multidimensional, culturally and socially inclusive Child Resilience Questionnaire (parent/caregiver report) to measure factors that support resilience: a community-based participatory research and psychometric testing study in Australia
Authors: Gartland Deirdre , Riggs Elisha , Giallo Rebecca , Glover Karen , Stowe Mardi , Mongta Sharon , Weetra Donna , Brown Stephanie Janne
Published: June 2022

Objective

Develop a comprehensive socially inclusive measure to assess child resilience factors.

Design

A socioecological model of resilience, community-based participatory research methods and two rounds of psychometric testing created the Child Resilience Questionnaire (parent/caregiver report, child report, school report). The parent/caregiver report (CRQ-P/C) is the focus of this paper.

Setting

Australia.

Participants

Culturally and socially diverse parents/caregivers of children aged 5–12 years completed the CRQ-P/C in the pilot (n=489) and validation study (n=1114). Recruitment via a large tertiary hospital’s outpatient clinics, Aboriginal and refugee background communities (Aboriginal and bicultural researchers networks) and nested follow-up of mothers in a pregnancy cohort and a cohort of Aboriginal families.

Analysis

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses conducted to assess the structure and construct validity of CRQ-P/C subscales. Cronbach’s alpha used to assess internal consistency of subscales. Criterion validity assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) parent report.

Results

Conceptually developed CRQ comprised 169 items in 19 subscales across five socioecological domains (self, family, friends, school and community). Two rounds of psychometric revision and community consultations created a CRQ-P/C with 43 items in 11 scales: self (positive self, positive future, managing emotions), family (connectedness, guidance, basic needs), school (teacher support, engagement, friends) and culture (connectedness, language). Excellent scale reliability (α=0.7–0.9), except basic needs scale (α=0.61) (where a highly endorsed item was retained for conceptual integrity). Criterion validity was supported: scales had low to moderate negative correlations with SDQ total difficulty score (Rs= -0.2/–0.5. p<0.001); children with emotion/behavioural difficulties had lower CRQ-P/C scores (β=−14.5, 95% CI −17.5 to −11.6, adjusted for gender).

Conclusion

The CRQ-P/C is a new multidomain measure of factors supporting resilience in children. It has good psychometric properties and will have broad applications in clinical, educational and research settings. The tool also adds to the few culturally competent measures relevant to Aboriginal and refugee background communities.
Cannabis use among youth in Canada: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Kourgiantakis Toula , Edwards Travonne , Lee Eunjung , Logan Judith , Vicknarajah Ragave , Craig Shelley L , Simon-Tucker Monique , Williams Charmaine C
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Canadian youth (aged 15–24) have the highest rates of cannabis use globally. There are increasing concerns about the adverse effects of cannabis use on youth physical and mental health. However, there are gaps in our understanding of risks and harms to youth. This scoping review will synthesise the literature related to youth cannabis use in Canada. We will examine the relationship between youth cannabis use and physical and mental health, and the relationship with use of other substances. We will also examine prevention strategies for youth cannabis use in Canada and how the literature addresses social determinants of health.

Methods and analysis

Using a scoping review framework developed by Arksey and O’Malley, we will conduct our search in five academic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL and Web of Science’s Core Collection. We will include articles published between 2000 and 2021, and articles meeting the inclusion criteria will be charted to extract relevant themes and analysed using a qualitative thematic analysis approach.

Ethics and dissemination

This review will provide relevant information about youth cannabis use and generate recommendations and gaps in the literature. Updated research will inform policies, public education strategies and evidence-based programming. Results will be disseminated through an infographic, peer-reviewed publication and presentation at a mental health and addiction conference. Ethics approval is not required for this scoping review.
UK endoscopy workload and workforce patterns: is there potential to increase capacity? A BSG analysis of the National Endoscopy Database
Authors: Beaton David , Sharp Linda , Trudgill Nigel John , Thoufeeq Mo , Nicholson Brian D , Rogers Peter , Docherty James , Penman Ian D , Rutter Matt
Published: June 2022

Background

The lack of comprehensive national data on endoscopy activity and workforce hampers strategic planning. The National Endoscopy Database (NED) provides a unique opportunity to address this in the UK. We evaluated NED to inform service planning, exploring opportunities to expand capacity to meet service demands.

Design

Data on all procedures between 1 March 2019 and 29 February 2020 were extracted from NED. Endoscopy activity and endoscopist workforce were analysed.

Results

1 639 640 procedures were analysed (oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) 693 663, colonoscopy 586 464, flexible sigmoidoscopy 335 439 and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography 23 074) from 407 sites by 4990 endoscopists. 89% of procedures were performed in NHS sites. 17% took place each weekday, 10% on Saturdays and 6% on Sundays. Training procedures accounted for 6% of total activity, over 99% of which took place in NHS sites. Median patient age was younger in the independent sector (IS) (51 vs 60 years, p<0.001). 74% of endoscopists were male. Gastroenterologists and surgeons each comprised one-third of the endoscopist workforce; non-medical endoscopists (NMEs) comprised 12% yet undertook 23% of procedures. Approximately half of endoscopists performing OGD (52%) or colonoscopies (48%) did not meet minimum annual procedure numbers.

Conclusion

This comprehensive analysis reveals endoscopy workload and workforce patterns for the first time across both the NHS and the IS in all four UK nations. Half of all endoscopists perform fewer than the recommended minimum annual procedure numbers: a national strategy to address this, along with expansion of the NME workforce, would increase endoscopy capacity, which could be used to exploit latent weekend capacity.
Sex and gender terminology: a glossary for gender-inclusive epidemiology
Authors: Rioux Charlie , Paré Ash , London-Nadeau Kira , Juster Robert-Paul , Weedon Scott , Levasseur-Puhach Sydney , Freeman Makayla , Roos Leslie E , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne M
Published: June 2022

There is increased interest in inclusion, diversity and representativeness in epidemiological and community health research. Despite this progress, misunderstanding and conflation of sex and gender have precluded both the accurate description of sex and gender as sample demographics and their inclusion in scientific enquiry aiming to distinguish health disparities due to biological systems, gendered experiences or their social and environmental interactions. The present glossary aims to define and improve understanding of current sex-related and gender-related terminology as an important step to gender-inclusive epidemiological research. Effectively, a proper understanding of sex, gender and their subtleties as well as acknowledgement and inclusion of diverse gender identities and modalities can make epidemiology not only more equitable, but also more scientifically accurate and representative. In turn, this can improve public health efforts aimed at promoting the well-being of all communities and reducing health inequities.
Inhibition of the postsynaptic density protein 95 on the protective effect of Ang-(1-7)–Mas on cerebral ischaemia injury
Authors: Zhao Bingrui , Wang Zhe , Liang Xinyue , Wang Xiaoyan , Lin Kai , Yuan Lihua , Jiang Jing , Xu Cong , Zhang Daolai , Sun Yeying , Bian Weihua
Published: June 2022

Background

Postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD95) plays an important role in cerebral ischaemia injury, but its mechanism needs further research. This study aimed to explore the role of PSD95 in (Ang-(1-7))-Mas-mediated cerebral ischaemia protection and its regulatory mechanism.

Methods

Oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) neuron and rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) models were used as in vitro and in vivo models, respectively. TAT-MAS9C was used to disrupt the interaction between PSD95 and Mas. The recombinant PSD95 adenovirus (Ad-PSD95) was used to overexpress PSD95 in neurons.

Results

Results showed that in OGD neurons, Ang-(1-7) could promote cell viability; reduce cell apoptosis; reduce the cell membrane localisation of Mas; upregulate the expression levels of pAKT, bcl-2 and I-κB; and downregulate the expression levels of Bax, pI-κB, tumour necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1β. TAT-MAS9C could enhance the aforementioned effects of Ang-(1-7). However, the PSD95 overexpression inhibited the aforementioned effects of Ang-(1-7). In the MCAO rat model, the 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining showed that Ang-(1-7) reduced the infarct volume. The Morris water maze test showed that the number of crossings over the platform area in the Ang-(1-7) group was significantly increased. TAT-MAS9C could promote the protective effect of Ang-(1-7).

Conclusions

Results suggested that PSD95 alleviated the activation of AKT and the inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B signalling pathway mediated by the Ang-(1-7)–Mas complex, thereby reducing neuronal activity, increasing apoptosis and inhibiting the Ang-(1-7)–Mas-mediated cerebral ischaemia protection.
Endovascular thrombectomy with or without intravenous alteplase for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Wang Xin , Ye Zhikang , Busse Jason W , Hill Michael D , Smith Eric E , Guyatt Gordon H , Prasad Kameshwar , Lindsay M Patrice , Yang Hui , Zhang Yi , Liu Ying , Tang Borui , Wang Xinrui , Wang Yushu , Couban Rachel J , An Zhuoling
Published: June 2022

Background

Among patients who had an ischaemic stroke presenting directly to a stroke centre where endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is immediately available, there is uncertainty regarding the role of intravenous thrombolysis agents before or concurrently with EVT. To support a rapid guideline, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the impact of EVT alone versus EVT with intravenous alteplase in patients who had an acute ischaemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion.

Methods

In November 2021, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, clincialtrials.gov and the ISRCTN registry for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EVT alone versus EVT with alteplase for acute ischaemic stroke. We conducted meta-analyses using fixed effects models and assessed the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.

Results

In total 6 RCTs including 2334 participants were eligible. Low certainty evidence suggests that, compared with EVT and alteplase, there is possibly a small decrease in the proportion of patients independent with EVT alone (risk ratio (RR) 0.97, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.05; risk difference (RD) −1.5%; 95% CI −5.4% to 2.5%), and possibly a small increase in mortality with EVT alone (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.29; RD 1.2%, 95% CI −2.0% to 4.9%) . Moderate certainty evidence suggests that there is probably a small decrease in symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH) with EVT alone (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.07; RD −1.0%; 95%CI −1.8% to 0.27%).

Conclusions

Low certainty evidence suggests that there is possibly a small decrease in the proportion of patients that achieve functional independence and a small increase in mortality with EVT alone. Moderate certainty evidence suggests that there is probably a small decrease in sICH with EVT alone. The accompanying guideline provides contextualised guidance based on this body of evidence.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021249873.
What happens after they survive? The role of anticoagulants and antiplatelets in IVC injuries
Authors: Hynes Allyson M , Scantling Dane R , Murali Shyam , Bormann Bradford C , Paul Jasmeet S , Reilly Patrick M , Seamon Mark J , Martin Niels D
Published: June 2022

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) after an inferior vena cava (IVC) injury is a devastating complication. Current practice involves variable use of anticoagulation and antiplatelet (AC/AP) agents. We hypothesized that AC/AP can reduce the incidence of VTE and that delayed institution of AC/AP is associated with increased VTE events.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed IVC injuries cared for at a large urban adult academic level 1 trauma center between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2020, surviving 72 hours. Patient demographics, injury mechanism, surgical repair, type and timing of AC, and type and timing of VTE events were characterized. Postoperative AC status during hospital course before an acute VTE event was delineated by grouping patients into four categories: full, prophylactic, prophylactic with concomitant AP, and none. The primary outcome was the incidence of an acute VTE event. IVC ligation was excluded from analysis.

Results

Of the 76 patients sustaining an IVC injury, 26 were included. The incidence of a new deep vein thrombosis distal to the IVC injury and a new pulmonary embolism was 31% and 15%, respectively. The median onset of VTE was 5 days (IQR 1–11). Four received full AC, 10 received prophylactic AC with concomitant AP, 8 received prophylactic AC, and 4 received no AC/AP. New VTE events occurred in 0.0% of full, in 30.0% of prophylactic with concomitant AP, in 50.0% of prophylactic, and in 50.0% without AC/AP. There was no difference in baseline demographics, injury mechanisms, surgical interventions, and bleeding complications.

Discussion

This is the first study to suggest that delay and degree of antithrombotic initiation in an IVC-injured patient may be associated with an increase in VTE events. Consideration of therapy initiation should be performed on hemostatic stabilization. Future studies are necessary to characterize the optimal dosing and temporal timing of these therapies.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, level 3.
Cholecalciferol induces apoptosis via autocrine metabolism in epidermoid cervical cancer cells
Authors: Bhoora S. , Pillay T.S. , Punchoo R.
Published: June 2022

The anti-cancer effects of vitamin D are of fundamental interest. Cholecalciferol is sequentially hydroxylated endogenously to calcidiol and calcitriol. Here, SiHa epidermoid cervical cancer cells were treated with cholecalciferol (10–2600 nmol/L). Cell count and viability were assayed using Crystal Violet and Trypan Blue, respectively. Apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry for early and late biomarkers along with brightfield microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Autocrine vitamin D metabolism was analysed by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and immunoblotting for activating enzymes: 25-hydroxylases (CYP2R1 and CYP27A1) and 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), the catabolic 24-hydroxylase (CYP24A1), and the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc test, and p < 0.05 was considered significant. After cholecalciferol, cell count ( p = 0.011) and viability ( p < 0.0001) decreased, apoptotic biomarkers were positive, mitochondrial membrane potential decreased ( p = 0.0145), and phosphatidylserine externalisation ( p = 0.0439), terminal caspase activity ( p = 0.0025), and nuclear damage ( p = 0.004) increased. Microscopy showed classical features of apoptosis. Gene and protein expression were concordant. Immunoblots revealed increased CYP2R1 ( p = 0.021), VDR ( p = 0.04), and CYP24A1 ( p = 0.0274) and decreased CYP27B1 ( p = 0.031). The authors conclude that autocrine activation of cholecalciferol to calcidiol may mediate VDR signalling of growth inhibition and apoptosis in SiHa cells.
Reconciliation in the woods? Three pathways towards forest justice
Authors: Nikolakis William
Published: June 2022

Forests are the locus of conflict in Canada, where the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples can collide with those of the province (Crown) and the forest industry. Efforts to achieve “forest justice” — or sufficient forest rights to meet the self-governance goals of Indigenous peoples, and in ways that ensure collective resilience — have typically been driven by the principle of reconciliation. In this paper, these “forest justice” efforts were examined through a tripartite justice theory, involving recognition,  representation, and redistribution pathways. This paper documents that recognition involves Crown efforts to recognize Indigenous peoples’ forest rights, including ownership, and access and use rights; representation includes improved participation in forest governance; and redistribution covers the allocation of timber harvesting rights and forest lands to Indigenous peoples. This study documents that the bulk of “forest justice” activity is focused on the redistribution of timber harvesting licences, the volume of which has doubled over the last two decades. These three paths to justice must all be pursued together to deliver “forest justice”, and to move towards “reconciliation in the woods”. Recommendations are offered to support forest justice in practice.
Continuous-time quantum hash function based on one-dimensional cycle lattice
Authors: shi Wei-Min , Wang Shou , Pan Tian , Yang Yu-Guang , Zhou Yi-Hua
Published: June 2022

The proposed quantum hash function (QHF) based on the discrete-time quantum walk (DTQW) structure requires enlarging the coin state space and the preparation of continuous quantum states is less difficult. Hence, a new construction method of QHF is proposed based on the continuous-time quantum walk (CTQW) of the one-dimensional (1D) lattice with boundary constraints and without additional coin space. In the scheme, the input of the QHF is an arbitrary binary string message which is used to control the selected Hamiltonian of CTQW at each time interval, and the output of the QHF is the final probability distribution of CTQW. Under the same computing environment, simulation and analysis indicate that our QHF can satisfy the same security requirements such as sensitivity, diffusion and confusion, collision, birthday attack, but the collision rate is reduced by 40% without reducing effectiveness.
A quantum steganography scheme using quantum wavelet transforms
Authors: Gao Chao , Zhou Ri-Gui , Li Xin
Published: June 2022

Quantum steganography is a technology which can hide information effectively for achieving copyright protection. In this paper, a quantum steganography scheme using quantum wavelet transform and the novel enhanced quantum representation for quantum image is proposed, and this scheme can embed the secret text of size [Formula: see text] into a [Formula: see text] gray-scale carrier image. In the scrambling operation, the text is scrambled by the scrambling circuit including bit-reverse, quantum equal and CNOT gate to improve its security. Before embedding, the carrier image is first transformed by 1-level quantum Haar wavelet transform, and then its low-frequency part is divided into blocks. The simulation results suggest that the proposed scheme has good performance in visual quality and robustness. Finally, through the analysis of circuit complexity, the scheme has low complexity O(n).