bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐control: An integrative framework
Authors: Werner Kaitlyn M. , Ford Brett Q.
Published: June 2023

Research on self‐control has flourished within the last two decades, with many researchers trying to answer one of the most fundamental questions regarding human behaviour—how do we successfully regulate desires in the pursuit of long‐term goals? While recent research has focused on different strategies to enhance self‐control success, we still know very little about how strategies are implemented or where the need for self‐control comes from in the first place. Drawing from parallel fields (e.g., emotion regulation, health) and other theories of self‐regulation, we propose an integrative framework that describes self‐control as a dynamic, multi‐stage process that unfolds over time. In this review, we first provide an overview of this framework, which poses three stages of regulation: the identification of the need for self‐control, the selection of strategies to regulate temptations, and the implementation of chosen strategies. These regulatory stages are then flexibly monitored over time. We then expand this framework by outlining a series of growth points to guide future research. By bridging across theories and disciplines, the present framework improves our understanding of how self‐control unfolds in everyday life.
Unvaxxed and unafraid: Unvaccinated Americans perceive less disease risk than do vaccinated Americans
Authors: Hauser David J. , Meier Brian P.
Published: June 2023

Is disease risk perception accurately calibrated among the unvaccinated? People shift their attitudes to rationalize their choices, so those who choose to be unvaccinated may be motivated to feel less at risk. In three studies (total N = 1446), we asked Americans how worried they were about catching/spreading influenza and COVID‐19 and whether they were vaccinated against those diseases. Unvaccinated participants felt less at risk of catching/spreading the diseases they were unvaccinated against than vaccinated participants. For instance, unvaccinated participants felt ∼24% less at risk of catching/spreading COVID‐19 and had ∼28% stronger intention to engage in activities that carried a high risk of COVID‐19 transmission (Study 3). Overall, those who choose to be the most vulnerable to disease feel and act the least vulnerable.
Social determinants of health, prenatal maternal stress, and earlier birth during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Preis Heidi , Wang Weihao , Zhu Wei , Mahaffey Brittain , Lobel Marci
Published: June 2023

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, pregnant women, especially those from socioeconomically disadvantaged and marginalized groups, experienced unprecedented stress. Prenatal stress and social determinants of health (SDoH) such as lower education and lack of a relationship partner are known to contribute to earlier birth. However, whether SDoH and stress independently contribute or whether the harmful impact of SDoH is mediated by stress is unknown. Moreover, the contributions of these factors has not been investigated in the context of a communal health crisis such as the COVID‐19 pandemic. To examine these processes, we used a longitudinal cohort of 2473 women pregnant during the COVID‐19 pandemic who reported a live birth. We compared structural equation models predicting gestational age at birth from SDoH (race/ethnicity, education, financial security, health insurance, relationship status, and lifetime abuse) and from prenatal maternal stress related and unrelated to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results indicate that the association of SDoH with earlier birth was partially mediated by prenatal stress. These findings help uncover mechanisms explaining health disparities in the U.S. and highlight the need to address both SDoH and the stress that these factors produce in under‐resourced and marginalized communities.
Examining college students' food security coping strategies and experiences during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ahmed Tanzina , Shane Jacob , Chu Caitlin , Edwards Arielle , Caicedo David , Ilieva Rositsa T. , Verdino Joseph , Jiang Karen , Brusche Daniel , Wong Ho Yan , Yan Anita , Aleong Charmaine
Published: June 2023

College students' food situations may have been disrupted by the COVID‐19 pandemic, which could have affected their health and well‐being. However, little is known about how the pandemic impacted students' food experiences and how students coped with food‐related disruptions, particularly from the student's own perspective. This study reviews data from 571 undergraduates who attended public colleges during Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 and wrote a narrative about the pandemic's impact on their food experiences. Most students indicated they experienced a wide range of food difficulties and adapted new food practices. Despite these challenges, students emphasized proactive coping strategies and positive pandemic outcomes rather than difficulties and negative outcomes. These findings have implications for students' long‐term health and well‐being.
Social cohesion predicts COVID‐19 vaccination intentions and uptake
Authors: Cárdenas Diana , Orazani Nima , Manueli Farah , Donaldson Jessica L. , Stevens Mark , Cruwys Tegan , Platow Michael J. , O’Donnell James , Zekulin Michael G. , Qureshi Israr , Walker Iain , Reynolds Katherine J.
Published: June 2023

COVID‐19 vaccination is widely regarded as an individual decision, resting upon individual characteristics and demographic factors. In this research, we provide evidence that psychological group membership, and more precisely, social cohesion—a multidimensional concept that encompasses one's sense of connectedness to, and interrelations within, a group—can help us understand COVID‐19 vaccination intentions (Study 1) and uptake (Study 2). Study 1 is a repeated‐measures study with a representative sample of 3026 Australians. We found evidence that social cohesion can be conceptualised as a multidimensional structure; moreover, social cohesion at Wave 1 (early in the COVID‐19) predicted greater vaccination intention and lower perceived risk of vaccination at Wave 2 (4 months later). In Study 2 (a cross‐sectional study, N = 499), the multidimensional structure of social cohesion was associated with greater uptake of vaccine doses (in addition to willingness to receive further doses and perceived risk of the vaccine). These relations were found after controlling for a series of demographic (i.e., sex, age, income), health‐related factors (i.e., subjective health; perceived risk; having been diagnosed with COVID‐19), and individual differences (political orientation, social dominance orientation, individualism). These results demonstrate the need to go beyond individual factors when it comes to behaviours that protect groups, and particularly when examining COVID‐19 vaccination—one of the most important ways of slowing the spread of the virus.
Mönckeberg's medial calcific sclerosis in diabetic and non‐diabetic foot infections
Authors: Suludere Mehmet A. , Killeen Amanda L. , Crisologo Peter A. , Kang Gu E. , Malone Matthew , Siah Michael C. , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and extent of lower extremity Mönckeberg's Medial Calcific Sclerosis (MMCS) in patients with and without diabetes in patients admitted to the hospital for foot infections. This study retrospectively reviewed 446 patients admitted to the hospital with a moderate or severe foot infection. We defined diabetes based on ADA criteria and reviewed electronic medical records for demographics, medical history and physical examination data. Anterior–posterior and lateral foot radiographs were examined to identify the presence and extent of vascular calcification. We categorised MMCS based on anatomical location: ankle joint to the navicular‐cuneiform joint, Lis Franc joint to metatarsophalangeal joints and distal to the metatarsophalangeal joints. The prevalence of MMCS was 40.6%. The anatomic extent of MMCS was 19.3% in the toes, 34.3% in the metatarsals and 40.6% in the hindfoot/ankle. Calcification was not common solely in the dorsalis pedis artery (DP) (3.8%) or solely in the posterior tibial artery (PT) (7.0%). Usually, both DP and PT arteries were affected by MMCS (29.8%). The prevalence of MMCS was higher in people with diabetes (in hindfoot and ankle [50.1% vs. 9.9%, p ≤ 0.01]; metatarsals [42.6% vs. 5.9%, p ≤ 0.01]; and toes [23.8% vs. 4.0%, p ≤ 0.01]). People with diabetes were 8.9 (CI: 4.5–17.8) times more likely to have MMCS than those without diabetes. This is a group that often has poor perfusion and needs vascular assessment. The high prevalence of MMCS raises questions about the reliability of the conventional segmental arterial Doppler studies to diagnose PAD.
Global impacts of extractive and industrial development projects on Indigenous Peoples’ lifeways, lands, and rights
Authors: Scheidel Arnim , Fernández-Llamazares Álvaro , Bara Anju Helen , Del Bene Daniela , David-Chavez Dominique M. , Fanari Eleonora , Garba Ibrahim , Hanaček Ksenija , Liu Juan , Martínez-Alier Joan , Navas Grettel , Reyes-García Victoria , Roy Brototi , Temper Leah , Thiri May Aye , Tran Dalena , Walter Mariana , Whyte Kyle Powys
Published: June 2023

To what extent do extractive and industrial development pressures affect Indigenous Peoples’ lifeways, lands, and rights globally? We analyze 3081 environmental conflicts over development projects to quantify Indigenous Peoples’ exposure to 11 reported social-environmental impacts jeopardizing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous Peoples are affected in at least 34% of all documented environmental conflicts worldwide. More than three-fourths of these conflicts are caused by mining, fossil fuels, dam projects, and the agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and livestock (AFFL) sector. Landscape loss (56% of cases), livelihood loss (52%), and land dispossession (50%) are reported to occur globally most often and are significantly more frequent in the AFFL sector. The resulting burdens jeopardize Indigenous rights and impede the realization of global environmental justice.
Structural and computational design of a SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen with improved expression and immunogenicity
Authors: Williams James A. , Biancucci Marco , Lessen Laura , Tian Sai , Balsaraf Ankita , Chen Lynn , Chesterman Chelsy , Maruggi Giulietta , Vandepaer Sarah , Huang Ying , Mallett Corey P. , Steff Ann-Muriel , Bottomley Matthew James , Malito Enrico , Wahome Newton , Harshbarger Wayne D.
Published: June 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern challenge the efficacy of approved vaccines, emphasizing the need for updated spike antigens. Here, we use an evolutionary-based design aimed at boosting protein expression levels of S-2P and improving immunogenic outcomes in mice. Thirty-six prototype antigens were generated in silico and 15 were produced for biochemical analysis. S2D14, which contains 20 computationally designed mutations within the S2 domain and a rationally engineered D614G mutation in the SD2 domain, has an ~11-fold increase in protein yield and retains RBD antigenicity. Cryo–electron microscopy structures reveal a mixture of populations in various RBD conformational states. Vaccination of mice with adjuvanted S2D14 elicited higher cross-neutralizing antibody titers than adjuvanted S-2P against the SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain and four variants of concern. S2D14 may be a useful scaffold or tool for the design of future coronavirus vaccines, and the approaches used for the design of S2D14 may be broadly applicable to streamline vaccine discovery.
Origin of biological homochirality by crystallization of an RNA precursor on a magnetic surface
Authors: Ozturk S. Furkan , Liu Ziwei , Sutherland John D. , Sasselov Dimitar D.
Published: June 2023

Homochirality is a signature of life on Earth, yet its origins remain an unsolved puzzle. Achieving homochirality is essential for a high-yielding prebiotic network capable of producing functional polymers like RNA and peptides on a persistent basis. Because of the chiral-induced spin selectivity effect, which established a strong coupling between electron spin and molecular chirality, magnetic surfaces can act as chiral agents and be templates for the enantioselective crystallization of chiral molecules. Here, we studied the spin-selective crystallization of racemic ribo-aminooxazoline (RAO), an RNA precursor, on magnetite (Fe
3
O
4
) surfaces, achieving an unprecedented enantiomeric excess (ee) of about 60%. Following the initial enrichment, we then obtained homochiral (100% ee) crystals of RAO after a subsequent crystallization. Our results demonstrate a prebiotically plausible way of achieving system-level homochirality from completely racemic starting materials, in a shallow-lake environment on early Earth where sedimentary magnetite deposits are expected to be common.
Discovering a uniform functional trade-off of the CBC-type 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclases and deciphering its chemical logic
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Yunpeng , Yue Jingyang , Zhang Rongrong , Hu Yong-er , Huang Ruoshi , Ji Ai-jia , Hess B. Andes , Liu Zhongqiu , Duan Lixin , Wu Ruibo
Published: June 2023

Many functionally promiscuous plant 2,3-oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) have been found, but complete functional reshaping is rarely reported. In this study, we have identified two new plant OSCs: a unique protostadienol synthase (
Ao
PDS) and a common cycloartenol synthase (
Ao
CAS) from
Alisma orientale
(Sam.) Juzep. Multiscale simulations and mutagenesis experiments revealed that threonine-727 is an essential residue responsible for protosta-13 (17),24-dienol biosynthesis in
Ao
PDS and that the F726T mutant completely reshapes the native function of
Ao
CAS into a PDS function to yield almost exclusively protosta-13 (17),24-dienol. Unexpectedly, various native functions were uniformly reshaped into a PDS function by introducing the phenylalanine → threonine substitution at this conserved position in other plant and non-plant chair-boat-chair–type OSCs. Further computational modeling elaborated the trade-off mechanisms of the phenylalanine → threonine substitution that leads to the PDS activity. This study demonstrates a general strategy for functional reshaping by using a plastic residue based on the decipherment of the catalytic mechanism.
Design of a Whole-Cell Biosensor Based on Bacillus subtilis Spores and the Green Fluorescent Protein To Monitor Arsenic
Authors: Valenzuela-García Luz I. , Alarcón-Herrera María Teresa , Ayala-García Víctor M. , Barraza-Salas Marcelo , Salas-Pacheco José Manuel , Díaz-Valles Juan Francisco , Pedraza-Reyes Mario
Published: June 2023

Arsenic (As) contamination of groundwater is associated with serious worldwide health risks. Detection of this pollutant at concentrations that are established as permissible for water consumption by WHO is a matter of significant interest.
Seroprevalence of COVID-19 in Oran: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dali-Ali Abdessamad , Derkaoui Dalia Kheira , Zina Mohamed , Oukebdane Asmaa
Published: June 2023

This is the first and only seroprevalence study of COVID-19 conducted in the general population in Algeria prior to the national vaccination campaign against COVID-19. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to our understanding of the spread of the virus in the population before the implementation of the vaccination program.
Examining the efficacy of a telehealth intervention targeting addictive eating in Australian adults (the TRACE Programme): a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Skinner Janelle A , Whatnall Megan , Leary Mark , Collins Rebecca A , Pursey Kirrilly M , Verdejo-García Antonio , Hay Phillipa J , Baker Amanda L , Hides Leanne , Paxton Susan J , Wood Lisa G , Colyvas Kim , Collins Clare E , Burrows Tracy L
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Approximately 15%–20% of the adult population self-report symptoms of addictive eating. There are currently limited options for management. Motivational interviewing-based interventions, containing personalised coping skills training, have been found to be effective for behaviour change in addictive disorders (eg, alcohol). This project builds upon foundations of an addictive eating feasibility study previously conducted and co-design process involving consumers. The primary aim of this study is to examine the efficacy of a telehealth intervention targeting addictive eating symptoms in Australian adults compared with passive intervention and control groups.

Methods and analysis

This three-arm randomised controlled trial will recruit participants 18–85 years, endorsing ≥3 symptoms on the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) 2.0, with body mass index >18.5 kg/m2. Addictive eating symptoms are assessed at baseline (pre-intervention), 3 months (post-intervention) and 6 months. Other outcomes include dietary intake and quality, depression, anxiety, stress, quality of life, physical activity and sleep hygiene. Using a multicomponent clinician-led approach, the active intervention consists of five telehealth sessions (15–45 min each) delivered by a dietitian over 3 months. The intervention uses personalised feedback, skill-building exercises, reflective activities and goal setting. Participants are provided with a workbook and website access. The passive intervention group receives the intervention via a self-guided approach with access to the workbook and website (no telehealth). The control group receives personalised written dietary feedback at baseline and participants advised to follow their usual dietary pattern for 6 months. The control group will be offered the passive intervention after 6 months. The primary endpoint is YFAS symptom scores at 3 months. A cost–consequence analysis will determine intervention costs alongside mean change outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Human Research Ethics Committee of University of Newcastle, Australia provided approval (H-2021-0100). Findings will be disseminated via publication in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, community presentations and student theses.

Trial registration number

Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12621001079831).
‘connEcted caesarean section’: creating a virtual link between MOthers and their infanTs to ImprOve maternal childbirth experieNce – study protocol for a PILOT trial (e-motion-pilot)
Authors: Corbaz Fiona , Boussac Emilie , Lepigeon Karine , Gomes Dias Diana , Marcadent Sandra , Desseauve David , Horsch Antje
Published: June 2023

Introduction

One-third of mothers rate their childbirth as traumatic. The prevalence of childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD) is 4.7%. Skin-to-skin contact is a protective factor against CB-PTSD. However, during a caesarean section (CS), skin-to-skin contact is not always feasible and mothers and infants are often separated. In those cases, there is no validated and available solution to substitute this unique protective factor. Based on the results of studies using virtual reality and head-mounted displays (HMDs) and studies on childbirth experience, we hypothesise that enabling the mother to have a visual and auditory contact with her baby could improve her childbirth experience while she and her baby are separated. To facilitate this connection, we will use a two-dimensional 360° camera filming the baby linked securely to an HMD that the mother can wear during the end of the surgery.

Methods and analysis

This study protocol describes a monocentric open-label controlled pilot trial with minimal risk testing the effects of a visual and auditory contact via an HMD worn by the mother airing a live video of her newborn compared with treatment-as-usual in 70 women after CS. The first 35 consecutive participants will be the control group and will receive the standard care. The next 35 consecutive participants will have the intervention. The primary outcome will be differences in maternal childbirth experience (Childbirth Experience Questionnaire 2) at 1-week postpartum between the intervention and control groups. Secondary outcomes will be CB-PTSD symptoms, birth satisfaction, mother–infant bonding, perceived pain and stress during childbirth, maternal anxiety and depression symptoms, anaesthesiological data and acceptability of the procedure.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was granted by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Canton de Vaud (study number 2022–00215). Dissemination of results will occur via national and international conferences, peer-reviewed journals, public conferences and social media.

Trial registration number

NCT05319665.
Assessing physical inactivity as a risk factor for chronic kidney diseases in Iranian population
Authors: Moeinzadeh Firouzeh , Babahajiani Media , Seirafian Shiva , Mansourian Marjan , Mortazavi Mojgan , Shahidi Shahrzad , Vahdat Sahar , Saleki Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Physical inactivity is a major adjustable lifestyle risk factor in renal patients; nevertheless, research on the association of physical activity (PA) with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is unclear.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

We evaluated the secondary care related to the nephrology specialists.

Participants

We evaluated PA in 3374 Iranian patients with CKD aged ≥18 years. Exclusion criteria were current or prior kidney transplantation, dementia, institutionalisation, expected to start renal replacement therapy or leave the area within study duration, participation in a clinical trial or inability to undergo the informed consent process.

Primary and secondary outcome

The renal function parameters were measured and compared with PA, assessed by the Baecke questionnaire. Estimated glomerular filtration rate, haematuria and/or albuminuria were used to estimate decreased kidney function and the incidence of CKD. To estimate the relationship between PA and CKD, we used the multinomial adjusted regression models.

Results

In the first model, findings indicate that the patients with the lowest PA score had significantly higher odds of CKD (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.78; p=0.01), adjustment for age and sex attenuated this relationship (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.56 to 1.78, p=0.04). Furthermore, adjusting for low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, fasting blood glucose, body mass index, waist circumference, waist/hip ratio, coexisting diseases and smoking made this relationship insignificant (OR 1.23, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.55; p=0.076). After adjusting for potential confounders, we found that patients with lower PA have higher odds of CKD stage 2 (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.32; p=0.008), no association with other CKD stages.

Conclusion

These data suggest that physical inactivity contributes to the risk of early CKD, so encouraging patients with CKD to maintain higher PA levels could be used as a simple and useful tool to decrease the risk of disease progression and its related burden.
Treatment effectiveness and side effects of patients with hepatitis C in the prisons of Southern Taiwan: a real-life retrospective analysis
Authors: Tsai Yu-Chi , Yu Ming-Lung , Ko Chou-Yuan , Hsin Yi-Hsiang , Tsai Qi-Zhang , Huang Chien-Wei
Published: June 2023

Objective

Hepatitis C is an important risk factor for cirrhosis and liver cancer in the Taiwanese population. Domestic prisons reported a higher rate of hepatitis C infection than the national average. Efficient and effective treatment of patients with hepatitis C in prisons is required to decrease the number of infections. This study analysed the effectiveness of hepatitis C treatment and its side effects in prison patients.

Design

This retrospective analysis included adult patients with hepatitis C who received direct-acting antiviral agents between 2018 and 2021.

Setting

The special hepatitis C clinics in the two prisons were run by a medium-sized hepatitis C treatment hospital in Southern Taiwan. Three direct-acting antiviral agents, sofosbuvir/ledipasvir for 12 weeks, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir for 8 or 12 weeks and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir for 12 weeks, were adopted based on patient characteristics.

Participants

470 patients were included.

Outcome measure

The sustained virological response at 12 weeks after the end of treatment was compared between the different groups.

Results

Most of the patients were men (70.0%) with a median age of 44 years. The most prevalent hepatitis C virus genotype was genotype 1 (44.26%). A total of 240 patients (51.06%) had a history of injectable drug use; 44 (9.36%) and 71 (15.11%) patients were coinfected with hepatitis B virus and HIV, respectively. Only 51 patients (10.85%) had liver cirrhosis. Most patients (98.30%) had normal renal function or no history of kidney disease. The patients had a sustained virological response achievement rate of 99.2%. The average incidence of adverse reactions during treatment was approximately 10%. Many of the adverse reactions were mild and resolved spontaneously.

Conclusion

Direct-acting antiviral agents are effective for treating hepatitis C in Taiwanese prisoners. These therapeutics were well-tolerated by the patient population.
QUality of life and Economic evaluation after neuroSTimulation for Epilepsy (QUESTE) in adolescents and adults with drug-resistant epilepsy: protocol for a multicentre, prospective observational cohort study in The Netherlands
Authors: Smeets Jacco J A S , Rijkers Kim , Ackermans Linda , Schijns Olaf , van Mastrigt Ghislaine A P G , Rouhl Rob , Wagner G Louis , van Kuijk Sander , Nelissen Jeske , van Straaten Ilse E C W , Kho Kuan , Snoeijen-Schouwenaars Francesca , Meppelink Anne-Marthe , Klinkenberg Sylvia , Majoie H J M
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders. Antiseizure medication (ASM) is the first choice of treatment, however, 30% of epilepsy patients are drug-resistant. For these patients, neuromodulation can be an option, especially when epilepsy surgery is not possible or did not lead to seizure freedom. Epilepsy is associated with reduced quality of life (QoL), which heavily depends on seizure control.

The most recent Cochrane reviews have shown that vagus nerve stimulation and deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus, lead to a responder rate OR of, respectively, 1.93 and 1.20. The question arises if neuromodulation for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) will be more cost-effective than sole treatment with ASM. The current study aims to determine the change in QoL after neuromodulation. Secondarily, we will aim to study the cost-effectiveness of these treatments.

Methods and analysis

This prospective cohort study aims at including 100 patients aged 16 or above who will be referred for neuromodulation, from January 2021 to January 2026. After informed consent, QoL and other relevant parameters will be assessed at baseline, 6 months, 1, 2 and 5 years after surgery. Data on seizure frequency will be derived from patient charts. We expect that DRE patients will report better QoL after neuromodulation. Even if they would still report seizures, the treatment can be seen as useful. This is especially true when patients can participate in society again to a greater extent than before treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

The board of directors of participating centres all gave permission for this study to commence. The medical ethics committees decided that this study does not fall under the Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO). The findings of this study will be presented at (inter)national conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NL9033.
Stroke resource utilisation and all-cause mortality in Thailand 2017–2020: A retrospective, cross-sectional study
Authors: Kumluang Suthasinee , Wu Olivia , Langhorne Peter , Geue Claudia
Published: June 2023

Objective

To determine resource utilisation, costs and all-cause mortality related to stroke in Thailand.

Design

Retrospective, cross-sectional study.

Setting and participants

Patients with first-ever stroke in the Thai national claims database between 2017 and 2020 were included for analysis. No individuals were involved.

Methods

We estimated annual treatment costs using two-part models. Survival analysis for all-cause mortality was performed.

Results

We identified 386 484 patients with incident stroke of which 56% were men. Mean age was 65 years and ischaemic stroke was the most common subtype. Mean annual cost per patient was 37 179 Thai Baht (95% CI: 36 988 to 37 370). Haemorrhagic stroke was predominantly observed in the youngest age groups with the highest estimated mean annual cost. Patients with haemorrhagic stroke also had a longer length of stay (LOS) in hospital and an increased risk of mortality. Key cost drivers were identified to be age, LOS, comorbidity and thrombolysis. Costs were lower in patients who received rehabilitation; however, only 32% of patients received rehabilitation services. The 4-year survival rate of all stroke types was 66.5% (95% CI: 64.3% to 66.7%). Older age, high comorbidity score, long LOS and being treated outside the Bangkok area were factors associated with significantly increased mortality risk, while receiving thrombolysis or rehabilitation was associated with a decreased risk of death.

Conclusion

The highest mean cost per patient was found in patients with haemorrhagic stroke. Receiving rehabilitation was associated with lower cost and mortality risk. Rehabilitation and disability outcomes should be improved to ensure an enhancement of health outcomes and efficient use of resources.
Qualitative study of international key informants’ perspectives on the current and future state of healthcare quality measurement and feedback
Authors: Donnelly Candice , Janssen Anna , Shah Kavisha , Harnett Paul , Vinod Shalini , Shaw Tim J
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study is to explore the current and future state of quality measurement and feedback and identify factors influencing measurement feedback systems, including the barriers and enablers to their effective design, implementation, use and translation into quality improvement.

Design

This qualitative study used semistructured interviews with key informants. A deductive framework analysis was conducted to code transcripts to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). An inductive analysis was used to produce subthemes and belief statements within each TDF domain.

Setting

All interviews were conducted by videoconference and audio-recorded.

Participants

Key informants were purposively sampled experts in quality measurement and feedback, including clinical (n=5), government (n=5), research (n=4) and health service leaders (n=3) from Australia (n=7), the USA (n=4), the UK (n=2), Canada (n=2) and Sweden (n=2).

Results

A total of 17 key informants participated in the study. The interview length ranged from 48 to 66 min. 12 theoretical domains populated by 38 subthemes were identified as relevant to measurement feedback systems. The most populous domains includedenvironmental context and resources,memory, attention and decision-making, andsocial influences. The most populous subthemes included ‘quality improvement culture’, ‘financial and human resource support’ and ‘patient-centred measurement’. There were minimal conflicting beliefs outside of ‘data quality and completeness’. Conflicting beliefs in these subthemes were predominantly between government and clinical leaders.

Conclusions

Multiple factors were found to influence measurement feedback systems and future considerations are presented within this manuscript. The barriers and enablers that impact these systems are complex. While there are some clear modifiable factors in the design of measurement and feedback processes, influential factors described by key informants were largely socioenvironmental. Evidence-based design and implementation, coupled with a deeper understanding of the implementation context, may lead to enhanced quality measurement feedback systems and ultimately improved care delivery and patient outcomes.
Patient and public involvement in emergency care research: a scoping review of the literature
Authors: Muir Rachel , Carlini Joan , Crilly Julia , Ranse Jamie
Published: June 2023

Background

Establishing the benefits of patient and public involvement (PPI) in emergency care research is important to improve the quality and relevance of research. Little is known about the extent of PPI in emergency care research, its methodological and reporting quality. This scoping review aimed to establish the extent of PPI in emergency care research, identify PPI strategies and processes and assess the quality of reporting on PPI in emergency care research.

Methods

Keyword searches of five databases (OVID MEDLINE, Elsevier EMBASE, EBSCO CINAHL, PsychInfo, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials); hand searches of 12 specialist journals and citation searches of the included journal articles were performed. A patient representative contributed to research design and co-authored this review.

Results

A total of 28 studies reporting PPI from the USA, Canada, UK, Australia and Ghana were included. The quality of reporting was variable, with only seven studies satisfying all Guidance for Reporting Involvement of Patients and the Public short form reporting criteria. None of the included studies adequately described all the key aspects of reporting the impact of PPI.

Conclusion

Relatively few emergency care studies comprehensively describe PPI. Opportunity exists to improve the consistency and quality of reporting of PPI in emergency care research. Further research is required to better understand the specific challenges for implementing PPI in emergency care research, and to determine whether emergency care researchers have adequate resources, education and funding to undertake and report involvement.
Future healthcare logistics: a survey of the public opinion on drones in Denmark
Authors: Fasterholdt Iben , Knudsen Mette Præst , From Nicolai , Frederiksen Marianne Harbo
Published: June 2023

Drones are expected to become widespread in society, making public readiness an important prerequisite for successfully unleashing them. This article investigates Danish citizens’ opinions on drones across varying fields of application and, specifically, six potential cases of healthcare logistics. Survey data representative of age, gender, and geography were collected and included information about respondents’ background, knowledge level of drones, and opinions on different drone use cases. Data were analysed with frequency tables and bivariate cross-tabulation. A thousand and four Danish adults completed the survey. Although other fields of application received higher levels of support, a majority of the respondents were positive towards using drones for healthcare logistics. Transportation of medicine and blood samples between hospitals were the most accepted healthcare use cases. Support varies across age with the highest support found in the eldest age group. Also, the more citizens report to know about drones, the more they tend to support using them. The results suggest that policymakers and firms must be attentive towards the public opinion on drones and seek insights into what citizens regard as noble purposes of using drones. Moreover, citizens must become more acquainted with drones, as this will likely boost public support.
Replacement of Space-Time with Superfluid Space and Restoration of Newton’s Dynamic Ether
Authors: Šorli Amrit Srečko , Gorjup Niko , Gorjup Rado
Published: June 2023

Although it has been approximately 80 years since the graviton was theoretically predicted, it has not yet been discovered. To resolve this puzzle, this study developed a model wherein the gravitational force is incorporated into the fundamental structure of the universal space. A physical object diminishes the energy density of space exactly by the amount of energy it contains. The resulting area of space with a diminished energy density is pushed in the direction of the closest area with the lowest energy density. A physical object situated in the corresponding space with a lower energy density follows the motion of this area towards the closest area with the lowest energy density. Therefore, there is no direct gravitational force between the physical objects and gravity is incorporated into the variable energy density of the space. This model of gravity has advanced Newton’s ether model with the extension of the mass-energy equivalence principle to space and works without the hypothetical graviton.
Intestinal Amino Acid Transport and Metabolic Health
Authors: Bröer Stefan
Published: June 2023

Amino acids derived from protein digestion are important nutrients for the growth and maintenance of organisms. Approximately half of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids can be synthesized by mammalian organisms, while the other half are essential and must be acquired from the nutrition. Absorption of amino acids is mediated by a set of amino acid transporters together with transport of di- and tripeptides. They provide amino acids for systemic needs and for enterocyte metabolism. Absorption is largely complete at the end of the small intestine. The large intestine mediates the uptake of amino acids derived from bacterial metabolism and endogenous sources. Lack of amino acid transporters and peptide transporter delays the absorption of amino acids and changes sensing and usage of amino acids by the intestine. This can affect metabolic health through amino acid restriction, sensing of amino acids, and production of antimicrobial peptides.
Heterogeneous Effects of Obesity on Life Expectancy: A Global Perspective
Authors: Bansal Sangeeta , Jin Yanhong
Published: June 2023

Based on an extensive literature review and publicly available data, this article provides insights into the differences in prevalence, sociodemographics, contributing factors, socioeconomic consequences, health effects, and public policies related to obesity between developed and developing countries. Most importantly, it explores the relationship between obesity and life expectancy and identifies potential mechanisms through which obesity affects mortality, highlighting the differences between developed and developing countries and by gender. It also examines how the associations between obesity and life expectancy differ at the population level compared with the individual level. The evidence shows a negative association between obesity and longevity, as well as an increased risk of various diseases with the rising rates of obesity. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the heterogeneous effects of obesity on life expectancy between developed and developing countries and by gender. The article also discusses the effectiveness of various policies adopted to address obesity and provides suggestions to address obesity problems and improve health and well-being in these countries.
Electrochemical Measurement of CoO Solubility Product and Co Solubility in Molten Lead-Bismuth Eutectic by Solid-State Ionic Devices
Authors: Gregori Giacomo , Doneux Thomas , Lim Jun
Published: June 2023

The use of liquid Pb-Bi eutectic alloy (LBE) as primary coolant and spallation target in Lead-cooled Fast Reactors (LFRs) and Accelerator Driven Systems (ADSs) presents a corrosion challenge, as structural materials can release impurities, such as Fe, Cr, Ni and Co, into the coolant. These corrosion product impurities can react with dissolved oxygen, resulting in the formation of solid oxide particles that can block the critical flow channels in the core or heat-exchanger, compromising the safety of the reactor. Of particular concern is the additional radiological risk posed by cobalt, which can undergo neutron capture and be transmuted into the γ-emitter

C

27

60

o
.

Therefore, it is essential to accurate assess the cobalt oxide solubility product and the cobalt solubility limit. In this work, we characterized the Co-O-LBE system through an electrochemical method that involved the coulometric titration of oxygen. By analyzing the oxygen evolution during CoO formation in LBE while titrating oxygen, we derived the following CoO solubility product (K

sp
) and Co solubility (SCo) thermal laws:

log

10

K

s
p

=
1.22
−

7386

T

[
K
]

673
−
778

K

log

10

S

C
o

w
t
%

=
0.64
−

2233

T

[
K
]

673
−
778

K
Alkaline Cleaning of Zn–Al–Mg Hot-Dip Galvanized Steels: Mechanisms and Surface Oxide Chemistry
Authors: Ponomareva Maria , Nadlinger Markus , Schimo-Aichhorn Gabriela , Duchoslav Jiri , Stifter David , Luckeneder Gerald , Steger Roland , Grienberger Sandra , Kogler Matthias , Valtiner Markus
Published: June 2023

Alkaline cleaning of Zn–Al–Mg coated hot-dip galvanized steel is a central process in the industrial galvanized steel production. This process removes carbonaceous contaminants from the surface and modifies the surface chemistry profoundly. We implement a combined analytical and surface science approach to characterize the dissolution mechanism and surface chemistry of Zn-Al-Mg coatings after treatment with industrial cleaners with pH 9.3 and 12.7, respectively. Our data indicate that weak alkaline cleaning can significantly increase the surface concentration of Zn-oxide, while strong alkaline cleaning dissolves the native oxide and generates a transient Zn/Mg-hydroxide on the surface. The observed dissolution mechanisms are largely consistent with the expectations from the Pourbaix diagrams, i.e. at pH 12.7 aluminium dissolution is expected while Mg is stable and forms a transient passive film. In contrast, mild alkaline cleaning at pH 9.3 is dominated by Mg and Zn dissolution, while the native Al passive film remains stable. Hence the cleaning provides an effective direct modification of the surface chemistry for subsequent process steps during the coating. Mild alkaline cleaning offers an increase of Zn at the surface, which has important implications for subsequent conversion and adhesive applications, that have been traditionally optimized for pure Zn coatings.
Hyperuricemia as an independent risk factor for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease in nonobese patients without type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Jing , Wang Che , Wang Yu-Tong , Liu Ji-Xiang , Zhou Tian-Hui , Yao Shu-Kun , Chen Gang
Published: June 2023

HUA is an independent risk factor for MAFLD in nonobese patients without T2DM. The association of HUA with MAFLD in nonobese patients without T2DM increased gradually with aging, especially in those over 40 yr old. In nonobese patients without T2DM, univariate analysis showed that females with HUA had a higher risk of MAFLD than males. However, the difference was narrowed after adjustment for confounders.
Feeding medium-chain fatty acid-rich formula causes liver steatosis and alters hepatic metabolism in neonatal pigs
Authors: Gerrard Samuel D. , Yonke Joseph A. , Seymour Kacie A. , Sunny Nishanth E. , El-Kadi Samer W.
Published: June 2023

Our data suggest that feeding high-energy MCFA formula resulted in hepatic steatosis compared with isoenergetic LCFA or low-energy formulas. Steatosis coincided with greater laurate, myristate, and palmitate accumulation, suggesting elongation of dietary laurate. Data also suggest that hepatocytes metabolized alanine and glucose to pyruvate, but neither entered the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. In addition, the contribution of alanine and glucose was greater for the low-energy formulas compared with the high-energy formulas.
Molecular Characterization of High Mobility Group Box 1a (HMGB1a) Gene in Red‐Bellied Pacu, Piaractus brachypomus
Authors: Carrillo-Godoy Nicolas , Rondón-Barragán Iang Schroniltgen
Published: June 2023

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is a chromosomal protein in the nucleus and a potent extracellular proinflammatory cytokine, widely described in mammals, nevertheless, with scarce reports in fish. In this study, full open reading frame of HMGB1a gene from Piaractus brachypomus is reported as well as its molecular characterization, including tissue gene expression. At predicted protein level, HMGB1a showed similarities with its orthologs in teleosts and higher vertebrates. The relative gene expression of HMGB1a mRNA was measured in several tissues including the brain, where a differential expression appeared in brain regions, i.e., higher expression in the cerebellum and telencephalon. In addition, in an assay of sublethal exposure to chlorpyrifos, upregulation of HMGB1a was detected in optic chiasm. Furthermore, in a traumatic brain injury model, upregulation of HMGB1a expression was evident 24 hours after lesion and remained higher up to 14 days. These findings suggest a role for HMGB1a in brain damage and its candidature as biomarker of brain injury; however, more studies are required to elucidate the functions of HMGB1a and its regulation in P. brachypomus.
Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Study
Authors: Regmi Amrit , Basnet Yamlal , Bhattarai Sitaram , Gautam Surendra K.
Published: June 2023

Group II–VI cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs), a potential alternative to antibiotics, were synthesized using cadmium acetate [Cd(Ac)2] as a precursor, sodium sulfate as a reducing agent, and starch as a capping agent through chemical precipitation techniques. The CdS NPs were characterized using different characterizing techniques; X-ray diffraction and selected area electron diffraction patterns verify that the nanoparticles had cubic zinc blende structure with average dimension size of 2.43 nm. Scanning electron mictroscope and transmission electron microscope images illustrated that the particles were uniformly distributed in cluster form, and FTIR and EDX confirmed the synthesized nanoparticles were pure. The CdS NPs show relevant antimicrobial sensitivity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains and the zone of inhibition increases with the increase in the concentration of nanoparticles. In comparison to Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, the synthesized nanoparticles were reported to be more effective toward Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-positive bacteria.