bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential willingness for genetic testing to target treatment in older Danish citizens
Authors: Leppin A , Nielsen JB
Published: October 2022

Background

Studies from different countries have shown that population majorities are willing to accept genetic tests for treatment personalisation and that considerable proportions are ready to donate their data to research. However, it has also been shown that concerns, for example about data use and confidentiality or treatment rationing, are common. To enable a more targeted communication process with the public about personalized medicine, more knowledge is needed on views in different sub-populations. In the present study, a hypothetical scenario was used to investigate differential readiness to accept a genetic test for treatment targeting and to permit use of personal data for research.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 50-80-year-old Danish citizens (n = 6807) who were sampled to represent the Danish population in that age segment. Socio-demographic data were added from a national registry. Data were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Preliminary results showed that a majority was willing to be tested (78.3%). Readiness was lower in women [OR = .67; CI = .59-.77] and those 70-80 [OR = .72; CI = 61-.86], while it was higher in those with better income [OR = 1.29; CI = 1.09-1.52]. Further, those less satisfied with their health, the obese and those with a perceived genetic vulnerability were more willing to be tested. Over 90% of those ready to be tested were also willing to permit use of their data for research. Rates were higher in men, older segments, those with higher income/education as well as those with current pain experience and those aware of a personal genetic vulnerability.

Conclusions

Findings indicate group differences in acceptance of a genetic test for personalisation of medicine and data use for research. Further research should investigate group-specific benefit perceptions versus concerns in population subgroups to inform implementation and enable targeted communication strategies.

Key messages

• Acceptance of genetic testing for personalisation of treatment as well as willingness to contribute data to research may differ between population subgroups.

• Women and those with lower income are less willing to accept genetic testing for treatment personalisation and accept research use of data while health vulnerabilities increase acceptance.
Measured vs self-reported overweight/obesity in the Italian adult population: CUORE Project 2018-19
Authors: Donfrancesco C , Bologna E , Iannucci L , Profumo E , Lo Noce C , Buttari B , Di Lonardo A , Vannucchi S , Onder G , Palmieri L
Published: October 2022

Background

In monitoring population health and the effectiveness of public health strategies, the body mass index (BMI) is often assessed within national surveys from self-reported height and weight rather than measured values. Using data collected within a recent health examination survey (HES), the discrepancies between self-reported and measured values were assessed, and correction models were estimated and implemented on national interview survey data.

Methods

Within the CUORE Project, the Italian National Institute of Health conducted the HES 2018-2019 measuring height and weight as well as collecting data on self-reported values in random samples of general population aged 35-74 years residing in ten (of 20) Italian regions distributed in the North, Centre and South: 1033 men and 1061 women.

Results

Self-reported and measured data comparison showed greater differences in mean values of height than weight and in women than in men (height +2 cm in men and +3.2 in women; weight -0.7 kg and -1.4 kg, respectively) and a corresponding underestimation of BMI (-0.7 kg/m2 and -1.4 kg/m2, respectively). Differences were stable across age groups and educational levels, except for height discrepancy, which was greatest in women aged 65-74 years. Self-reported vs measured prevalence were: normal weight 39.7%-33.3% in men and 54.8%-44.7% in women, overweight 45.8%-46.1% and 26.0%-29.2%, obesity 13.8%-20.1% and 15.7%-23.9%. Linear regression models adjusted by sex and age classes were assessed for height and weight (R2 > =0.92) and implemented to estimate adjusted BMI and normal weight/overweight/obesity prevalence on the national multi-purpose interview survey data collected by the Italian National Institute of Statistics.

Conclusions

To provide more accurate prevalence of normal weight, overweight and obesity, self-reported values could be adjusted using correction models developed on the basis of the relationship between self-reported and measured height and weight values.

Key messages

• Discrepancies between self-reported and measured values of height and weoght were found.

• Self-reported values could be adjusted using correction models developed on the basis of the relationship between self-reported and measured height and weight values.
Algorithm for early diagnosis of viral hepatitis C
Authors: Pakov I , Terzieva K , Shalamanov D , Karcheva M , Gancheva G
Published: October 2022

Issue

Viral hepatitis C (VH C) is a global problem of the public health. Different interventions for achieving the Global Health Sector Strategy on viral hepatitis targets (65% reduction in HCV-related deaths, 90% in new infections and 90% of infections diagnosed by 2030) were considered. Increased diagnosis and treatment rates would be required to achieve these targets in all countries, even with the introduction of high sustained viral response therapies.

Description of the problem

The latest global HCV disease burden estimates showed that about 71.1 million people worldwide are viremic, corresponding to a prevalence of 1%. The prevalence of HCV is not homogenous: the WHO Eastern-Mediterranean Region is with the highest number of infected subjects (15 millions), followed by the European Region (14 million). In Bulgaria, the incidence of VH C is 0.63-1.30 at 100 000 population (2008-2020) and in Pleven region is 0.38-3.8, respectively.

Results

Retrospective study was conducted upon epidemiological, demographic, clinical, laboratory and viral characteristics in fifty cases of VH C confirmed with positive anti-HCV, evaluated by ELISA. Thirty eight of cases were hospitalized in different clinics of the University Hospital “Dr Georgi Stranski”-Pleven (2017-2018) and remainders were blood-donors registered in Regional Center of Transfusion Hematology-Pleven. Surgical interventions (26.32%), blood infusions (23.68%) and hemodialysis (15.79%) were at highest risk for VH C. Twenty five hospital patients were with chronic VH C (66%), five with cirrhosis (13%) and eight (21%) with acute hepatitis C. Twenty of the patients (53%) were asymptomatic about hepatitis and were hospitalized because of different comorbidities (p < 0.0005).

Lessons

We propose an algorithm for early diagnosis of VH C based on mandatory screening for anti-HCV in risk groups, especially before invasive procedures. The early detection of HCV infection will reduce the complications and nosocomial infections.

Key messages

• Different scenarios developed to achieve the WHO Targets in all countries assume an implementation of national policies to prevent new infections and to diagnose current infections through screening.

• The early detection of HCV infection will reduce the complications and nosocomial infections.
Health, wellbeing, and the impact of Corona in older adults in Dresden, Germany: the LAB60+ study
Authors: Romero Starke K , Hegewald J , Schmauder S , Kaboth P , Uhlmann L , Wegge J , Marquardt G , Seidler A
Published: October 2022

Introduction

As the proportion of older people increases, it is necessary to evaluate their health and well-being to identify measures to promote healthy ageing. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted older adults’ health- not just through the infection itself, but also due to infection protection ordinances.

Methods

LAB60+ is a population-based cross-sectional study investigating, among other things, the physical and mental health of older adults. Residents of Dresden aged 60 years and older were invited to participate in the first half of 2021. Participants answered questions on their habits, health status and wellbeing, using, among others, the Short Form-8 Health Survey and the WHO wellbeing index.

Results

2399 people participated in the study (40% response). Participants assessed their physical health similar to the German population. The most common chronic conditions were hypertension (54%), chronic pain (32%) and osteoarthritis (31%). 42% of the participants were overweight and 20% were obese. One-fifth did not engage in physical activity: this number increased with age and decreased socioeconomic status. Participants reported lower levels of wellbeing compared to the German population (58 vs. 67 pts.). One-third had higher levels of depressiveness and half reported an increase in their experienced loneliness due to the pandemic. 34% participated in risky alcohol consumption, but it did not markedly change during the pandemic. The greatest negative impact of the pandemic on health behaviors was physical activity: more than one-third exercised less compared to the time before the pandemic.

Conclusions

Physical health was comparable to the German population, while depressivity was higher, perhaps due to the pandemic. Age-appropriate interventions should especially target an increase in physical activity. It is important to take measures to reduce the possible negative effects of the pandemic, such as increased loneliness or reduced physical activity.

Key messages

• This is the first study on health and wellbeing on older adults (60+ years) in the city of Dresden, Germany.

• The COVID-19 pandemic had a high impact on older adults’ physical activity and loneliness.
Are pressures sores in nursing homes related to nursing home size? A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: McGrane N , Dunbar P , Luding A , Keyes L
Published: October 2022

Background

Incidence of pressure sores are an indicator of quality of care provided. Pressure sores requiring hospitalisation are a very poor outcome and may indicate a chronic unmet need. Organisational factors of services are modifiable factors and may be associated with occurrence and severity of pressure sores. However, little investigation has been completed on this to date. The aim of this study was to assess the association of size of nursing homes and pressure sores requiring hospitalisation.

Methods

Using the Database of Statutory Notifications from Social Care in Ireland we identified from notifications received by the regulator in 2019, the number of pressure sores that required hospitalisation from nursing homes. Association of size of service (registered beds) and the percentage of pressure sores requiring hospital treatment was investigated, using negative binomial regression, unadjusted and adjusted for provider type (company, sole trader, statutory body, unincorporated body, partnership), staff to resident ratio and distance to hospital (km), and nurse to resident ratio as a proxy for resident complexity in a further model.

Results

598 Nursing homes were in operation in 2019. 1 was excluded for missing covariate data and 597 included for analysis. 447 submitted 2996 notifications of pressure sores, median (IQR): 3 (0 to 8). 255 pressure sores (8.51% of total) required hospitalisation. Pressure sores that required hospitalisation and size of service was positively associated, incidence rate ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.001 (1.000 to 1.002). This remained when adjusted for covariates, 1.003 (1.001 to 1.006) and additionally for nurse to staff ratio, 1.013 (1.011 to 1.016)

Conclusions

A small but significant higher number of pressures sores required hospitalisation from larger nursing homes. The reasons for this are unknown but may include cultural differences and ability to provide continuity of care between larger and smaller nursing homes.

Key messages

• Larger nursing homes are associated with higher incidents of pressure sores that require hospitalisation. This association remains when adjusted for covariates and nurse to staff ratio.

• Reasons larger nursing homes are associated with higher incidents of pressure sores that require hospitalisation are unknown but may be influenced by their ability to provide continuity of care.
Digital COVID-19 surveillance tool for a mass gathering event - a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hohmuth N , Lang A-L , Remschmidt C , Leistner R
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Mass gatherings have been associated with a high risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. On-site research can foster knowledge of risk factors for infections and improve risk assessments and precautionary measures at future events. We tested a web-based participatory disease surveillance tool to detect COVID-19 infections at and after an outdoor mass gathering by collecting self-reported COVID-19 symptoms and tests.

Methods

We conducted a digital prospective observational cohort study among fully immunized attendees of a sports event that took place from September 2 to 5, 2021 in Thuringia, Germany. Participants used our study app to report demographic data, COVID-19 tests, symptoms, and their contact behavior. This self-reported data was used to define probable and confirmed COVID-19 cases during the full “study period” (08/12/2021 - 10/31/2021) and within the 14-day “surveillance period” during and after the event, in which the highest likelihood of an event related COVID-19 outbreak could be expected (09/04/2021 - 09/17/2021).

Results

A total of 2,808 of 9,242 (30.4%) event attendees participated in the study. During the study period, 776 symptoms and 5,255 COVID-19 tests were reported in the study app. During the surveillance period, seven PCR positive COVID-19 cases were found to be associated with the event. This translated to an estimated seven-day incidence of ∼125/100,000 cases (95% CI [67.7/100,000, 223/100,000]), which was comparable to the average age-matched incidence in Germany during this time (118.3/100,000).

Conclusions

COVID-19 cases attributable to the mass gathering were comparable to the German-wide age-matched incidence, implicating that our active participatory surveillance tool was able to detect mass gathering related infections. Further studies are needed to evaluate and apply our participatory disease surveillance tool in other mass gathering settings.

Key messages

• Our digital COVID-19 surveillance tool for mass gathering events was easy to implement within the organizational structure of the event and well accepted amongst event attendees.

• Our active participatory surveillance tool was able to detect mass gathering related infections comparable to the Germany-wide incidence.
Innovative methods for health monitoring in Europe: results of a cross-sectional study
Authors: Unim B , Forjaz MJ , Thissen M , Schutte N , Palmieri L
Published: October 2022

Background

Innovative solutions are used to monitor the spread of COVID-19, to research and develop vaccines, and to ensure online privacy and security. The aim of the study is to investigate which innovative methods, including algorithms and digital tools (e.g., social media, artificial intelligence, contact tracing applications) are used to monitor health issues related to COVID-19 in Europe, and who is using them.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed and administered online to European countries’ representatives and stakeholders of the project Population Health Information Research Infrastructure (PHIRI). The survey investigated the use of innovative solutions and digital tools in Europe to monitor COVID-19 and vaccination programs, to research and develop diagnostics and teleconsultations, and to fight online disinformation. Legislative and ethical aspects were also considered. A descriptive data analysis was performed.

Results

19 responses were collected from 14 countries. Digital tools are used to monitor COVID-19 (13/14 countries), vaccination programs (12/14), for telemedicine (7/14), and to fight disinformation (10/14). Specific algorithms to detect the patterns of the pandemic spread are available in five countries. The main target groups of the tools are the general population, healthcare providers, patients and epidemiologists. The uptake rate of the tools ranged 5-100% across countries. Measures to evaluate the impact of digital tools (e.g., user surveys, reviews, evaluation teams) have been adopted in seven countries. Information on legislative and ethical aspects related to the use of digital solutions are available in 10 countries.

Conclusions

The development and use of innovative methods for population health monitoring and research purposes have been the key to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Improving the uptake rate, impact assessment of digital tools and fight against disinformation could enhance countries’ preparedness for future pandemics.

Key messages

• Given that digital solutions are deployed in population health monitoring, research, and for online privacy and security, they have a key role in mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Enhancement of the uptake rate and assessment of digital tools, and fight against disinformation could strengthen countries’ preparedness for future pandemics.
The burden of disease due to COVID-19 in Sweden: a disability-adjusted life years (DALY) study
Authors: Shedrawy J , Ernst P , Lönnroth K , Nyberg F
Published: October 2022

Background

Many countries have been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including Sweden, which has been in the spotlight regarding its policies and their impact on mortality and morbidity. Therefore, it is of high interest to measure the disease burden of COVID-19 in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). DALYs have two main components: the years of life lost through premature death (YLL) and the number of years lived with disability (YLD). This study aims to measure DALYs due to COVID-19 in Sweden.

Methods

This study used data from the nationwide multi-register observational study SCIFI-PEARL (Swedish COVID-19 Investigation for Future Insights - a Population Epidemiology Approach using Register Linkage) covering the entire Swedish population. The methodology used in the modelling and calculation of DALYs was based on the Global Burden of Disease guidelines, using Sweden-specific life tables for estimated life expectancies.

Results

In Sweden, 152877 DALYs were lost to COVID-19 between March 2020 and October 2021, corresponding to 1447/ 100 000, 99,3% of which was attributed to YLL. DALYs loss occurred mainly among elderly groups with 66,78 % of DALYs being attributed to individuals above 70 years old. 57,6% of the lost DALYs occurred among men that lost more DALYs compared to females in all age groups.

Conclusions

Similar to other countries, the burden of COVID-19 in Sweden is concentrated mainly among the elderly, which contributed to the highest DALY loss due to mortality. Yet, DALY loss remains lower for COVID-19 compared to other major non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and neoplasms. The contribution of YLD was minimal. However, YLD due to post-Covid is not well understood and long-term disability is likely still underestimated.

Key messages

• The burden of COVID-19 was mainly due to premature mortality in the older age groups.

• More research is needed especially on post-COVID disability to derive better estimates of YLD.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health behaviour of university students in Hamburg, Germany
Authors: Loof M , Czech F , Fiedler M , Kewitz M , Kunze L , Munusy Y , Reintjes R
Published: October 2022

Background

The academic surveillance system SuSy has been collecting and analysing data regarding the health behaviour of health sciences and medical technology students twice a year since 2014. The aims of the project are to identify risk factors as well as trends and to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on university students. The data provides a suitable basis for planning and implementing health promotion and prevention measures to improve students’ health.

Methods

A cross-sectional assessment as part of a rolling cohort analysis overall captured data of more than 3,000 cases using quantitative paper-pencil and online questionnaires at a German university in Hamburg. In autumn 2021, 257 students (193 women, 62 men), aged 18 to 54 years participated in the survey. However, trends are only described among undergraduate health sciences students (n ≈ 150 each survey).

Results

During the COVID-19 pandemic the health behaviour of students has changed considerably in many aspects. After remaining almost constant for five years the percentage of students consuming analgetic drugs regularly increased significantly from 45 % to 68 % during the first two years of the pandemic. The percentage of students consuming soporific drugs and tranquilizers has doubled during the same time and reached a new high (28 %) in autumn 2021. Parallel to the implementation and relaxation of relevant restrictions the consumption of alcohol first decreased noticeably, but then rose to an even higher level. Also, the percentage of students exhibiting low mental well-being more than doubled from 18 % to 43 %.

Conclusions

The surveys indicate that students started to engage in riskier health behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic while being subjected to low mental well-being. In addition to the observed vulnerability, further research regarding students’ health is required to identify potential, yet generalisable health risks to enhance and initiate expedient preventive measures.

Key messages

• The development, implementation and regular enhancement of a student health-related surveillance system is advisable.

• University students need to receive more public health attention in the future.
Peristomal skin complications in ileostomy and colostomy patients: a systematic literature review
Authors: D'Ambrosio F , Pappalardo C , Scardigno A , Maida A , Ricciardi R , Calabrò GE
Published: October 2022

Background

Peristomal skin complications (PSCs) are one of the main post-operative complications of ostomy surgery. They have a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life and represent a challenge for healthcare professionals involved in their management. The majority of PSCs is preventable and costly. Knowing their burden could guide decision makers on the ostomy patients’ management who are predominantly cancer and chronic bowel disease patients. Thus, the aim of this study was to summarize existing literature regarding the clinical-epidemiological burden of PSCs in ostomy patients.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed querying three database (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) from January 2012 to February 2022. It included studies in English language and focused on the clinical and epidemiological burden of PSCs in the adult patients with ileostomy and colostomy.

Results

Overall, 35 studies were considered. Epidemiological data on PSCs were not systematically collected in the available literature. The principal underlying disease requiring the ostomy surgery were rectal, colon and gynaecological cancers, inflammatory bowel diseases, diverticulitis, occlusion and intestinal perforation. It was described a range of PSCs from 11% to 45%. The PSCs were most commonly erythema, papules, erosion, ulceration and vesciculation. Skin complications increased the average number of hospitalization days and of hospital readmission within 120-day following surgery.

Conclusions

The data on PSCs are still limited. Estimating the PSCs burden could support healthcare professionals and decision makers called upon to identify the most appropriate responses to patients’ health needs. The management of these complications plays a vital role to improve patient’s quality of life and a multidisciplinary approach with the active involvement of stomatherapist, surgeon and dermatologist is critical. Furthermore, a better patient education and empowerment is needed.

Key messages

• Developing a multidisciplinary approach to managing PSCs is essential in order to provide the best treatment possible and the best outcomes for patients.

• Further studies should be conducted in order to better define the clinical-epidemiological burden of ileo- and colostomies and to support better health planning.
Drinking water quality as a risk factor for pupils’ health in rural schools in Serbia
Authors: Jovanovic D , Karadzic V , Vasic M , Jovanovic V , Paunovic K
Published: October 2022

Background

Access to safe drinking water in schools is essential for a good health, wellbeing, learning and dignity of pupils. The rural schools are most frequently connected to the rural water supply system or own water supply source, where the monitoring of drinking water quality is scarced. The study was conducted in the rural regions in Serbia in 2016, aiming at assessing drinking water quality and sanitary conditions of school water supply facilities.

Methods

In total 238 school facilities, including 108 in Šumadija and 130 in Pomoravlje District were investigated using laboratory testing of drinking water and sanitary inspection.

Results

Study revealed that 32% of analysed samples showed microbiological faecal contamination with bacteria E. coli, while 52% of samples showed physico-chemical non-compliance with the national standards, where higher nitrates were the most common cause. Overall non-compliance of drinking water from school rural water supply systems amounted to 66% of tested water samples. This study also showed the main technical shortcomings of school water supply facilities and distribution networks such as the lack of fencing of the water source, damaged or absence of drainage channels from the well concrete floor and poor construction characteristics of wells.

Conclusions

The results of this study, particularly presence of E. coli in drinking water may affect pupils’ health and is a consequence of poor sanitary conditions and maintenance of small rural drinking water supply systems and individual wells. It is necessary to provide continuous disinfection of water available in schools and to undertake measures for technical improvements in order to provide better sanitary protection of water sources and other water supply facilities in rural schools.

Key messages

• Drinking water quality in schools is vital for children public health.

• Raise awareness of local community on drinking water safety and enforce continuous monitoring of drinking water quality in small rural water supply systems in schools.
Strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of the IHR (2005) in low GNI countries
Authors: Vasic M , Karadzic V , Jovanovic D , Kilibarda B , Jovanovic V
Published: October 2022

Background

The International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005 are an international legal instrument adopted by World Health Organization General Assembly to strengthen global health security and empower the countries to prevent and respond to public health threats.

Methods

This study was done within the Joint Action on Strengthened International Health Regulations and Preparedness in the EU (SHARP JA) with the aim to assess the strengths and weaknesses in preparedness and IHR implementation in order to develop and improve countries’ IHR capacities. Desk-based review and analysis of available data from the States Parties Annual Report tool (SPAR) from 2019 were done. Data (for 13 IHR capacities with 24 indicators) were analyzed for 15 countries participating in SHARP JA with gross national income (GNI) less than 90% of the EU average.

Results

The overall capacity for IHR implementation in low GNI countries is 69%, ranging from 33% in Bosnia and Herzegovina to 84% in Spain. The highest capacities are recognized in the area of Legislation and financing - 78%, IHR Coordination & NFP Functions - 77%, Food Safety - 76%, and Health service provision - 76%. The weak areas with the need for further improvement are recorded in the Points of entry (PoE) - 51%, Risk Communication - 52%, Chemical events - 60%, National health emergency framework - 65%, Surveillance - 66%, and Human Resources - 67%. The overall IHR capacity of low GNI countries is lower compared to the SHARP JA countries and the European average (76% and 73% respectively).

Conclusions

The results have shown the strongest and the weakest points of the IHR implementation in low GNI countries. This indicates the need for capacity building and further development in identified areas (Points of entry, Risk Communication, Chemical events, National health emergency framework, Surveillance, and Human Resources).

Key messages

• The assessment of the strengths and weaknesses in preparedness and IHR implementation is the key prerequisite for identifying countries’ needs for their capacity enhancement.

• Special attention should be given to the strengthening low GNI countries’ capacities.
Healthcare utilization among aging Latvians with diminished activities of daily living
Authors: Queen C , Pasupathy R , Reine I
Published: October 2022

The population in Latvia is aging. Independence in performing activities of daily living (ADL) is a core aspect of functioning, and the elderly frequently experience limitations in functioning. Little is known about the utilization of healthcare of elderly Latvians with functional difficulties. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between functional difficulties and utilization of healthcare among the elderly in Latvia. This study had three overall objectives: (i) to investigate the determinants of utilization of health care for elderly Latvians with functional difficulties; (ii) examine the relationship between predisposing characteristics, enabling resources, and need with specific measures of access to care using the Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations and to (iii) identify the nature and existence of health disparities among the elderly in Latvia, with and without functional difficulties. Data from the 2017 Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) survey, with a sample size of 1479 was utilized. There was a statistically significant difference in the utilization of healthcare between individuals with and without functional disabilities (F(4,1) =759.615, p < 0.01), with a higher utilization of healthcare among individuals with functional difficulties (p< .01). The results of Automatic Linear Modeling indicate that significant (p < 0.05) factors in predicting utilization of healthcare include factors such as age, public sickness benefit and disability pension, and overall health status. This study is significant because it fills critical gaps in knowledge that exist with respect to healthcare utilization for elderly Latvians with functional disabilities.

Key messages

• This study contributes to our understanding of healthcare utilization of aging Latvians.

• This study provides insight into the functional limitations of the aging Latvian population.
Sample Size Planning for Statistical Power and Accurate Estimation
Authors: Anderson Samantha F. , Lamp Sophia J.
Published: October 2022

At the most general level, sample size refers to the number of participants (typically human or animal subjects) who provide data for a scientific experiment or study. Selecting an appropriate sample size is a fundamental feature of a well-designed study, and, as the title suggests, sample size can be carefully planned ahead of time. Sample size planning is important because the sample size of a study has implications for statistical power as well as accuracy. In conventional terms, statistical power reflects the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis, assuming that the purported effect is non-null (non-zero) in reality. Although power can be treated as a function of unknown parameter values, power is often defined conditionally on a specific value of population effect size. (On a technical level, power is conditional upon the population noncentrality parameter, which is a combination of sample size and effect size, but relying on effect size as a proxy is generally acceptable.) Power is calculated from the statistical significance threshold (otherwise known as the nominal Type I error rate or alpha-level), the population effect size, and the sample size. Because of the connection between sample size and power, sample size planning is sometimes called a priori power analysis. For example, if a new therapy developed to treat depression is truly beneficial, the sample size of a study assessing this therapy should be large enough to demonstrate the beneficial outcome as statistically significant. Accuracy reflects how close an estimate is to the parameter it aims to estimate. Accurate estimates are expressed with narrow confidence intervals (small margins of error). Sample size also has a connection to accuracy. For example, if the investigators in the previous example want to estimate how much the therapy reduces depressive symptoms, the sample size should be large enough so that the effect size estimate derived from the study is an accurate estimate of the true magnitude of the treatment effect. An underlying challenge to sample size planning for both goals is that the population effect size is unknown. An important corollary is that whether a particular sample size provides appropriate power (and in some cases, accuracy) depends on the population effect size, and as such, sample size cannot completely be judged without context. Although there are sometimes limitations to sample size, such as when working with a limited budget or specialized populations, and although sample size is often selected based on convenience or historical precedent, when possible it is desirable to directly plan the study sample size at the study design phase. Explicitly planning sample size helps to ensure that the sample size will be effective in meeting the investigators’ goals and answering the scientific questions of interest.
Unoccupied Aircraft Systems
Authors: Mathews Adam
Published: October 2022

An unoccupied aircraft system or UAS is comprised of an aircraft (typically, fixed- or rotary-wing) and the equipment needed to remotely operate the aircraft including a remote controller, additional ground control (e.g., computing station), and communication between components. UAS are otherwise known as drones, unoccupied/uncrewed/unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) among others. In most cases, UAS refer to non-military small UAS (sUAS) that adhere to civil aviation size/weight requirements such as weighing less than 55 pounds (about 25 kilograms) in the United States as regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the equivalent civil aviation authority in other countries. To geographers and geographic information scientists (GIScientists), UAS enable the collection of very high-spatial and -temporal resolution aerial data for a relatively low-cost compared to more traditional means (e.g., field-based surveys, weather balloons, occupied/piloted aircraft, satellites). The low-cost and relative ease of operation of UAS supports adoption of the technology in geographic research and teaching efforts. GIScientists including remote sensing experts have been quick to incorporate UAS into their work to examine geographic problems at unprecedented spatial and temporal scales. In this way, UAS as a topic cannot be separated from remote sensing because the technology is primarily used to remotely sense Earth’s surface using optical sensors (e.g., images, video), lidar, and radar. Digital photogrammetric methods tie together overlapping aerial images to generate three-dimensional (3D) point clouds and orthophotos. Specifically, images are processed using a suite of computer vision algorithms referred to together as Structure from Motion-Multiview Stereo (SfM-MVS, SfM for short) photogrammetry. Geographers focusing on areas outside of geospatial techniques, though, also utilize UAS. These include physical geographers interested in modeling landforms and fluvial processes as well as human geographers interested in community-based work, social research, and/or ethical issues with UAS usage and data collection. It is important to note though that the topic of UAS is multi- and interdisciplinary. Design and development of UAS technology requires contributions from engineering and computer science among other fields, and UAS operation involves aspects of airspace regulation, aviation law, and policy. Here we focus on conceptual and applied aspects of UAS from the perspective of geography, but references from cognate fields are included when needed.
Visual Performance and Binocular/Accommodative Function of S.T.O.P. Contact Lenses Compared With MiSight
Authors: Tilia Daniel , Diec Jennie , Ehrmann Klaus , Falk Darrin , Fedtke Cathleen , Conrad Fabian , Wu Richard , Bakaraju Ravi C.
Published: October 2022

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to compare the visual performance and binocular/accommodative function of two novel S.T.O.P. design (F2 and DT) contact lenses against MiSight when worn by myopic, young adults.

Method:

This was a prospective, randomized, cross-over, single-masked study. Each lens was worn daily wear with overnight peroxide disinfection for approximately 7 days. Visual performance was assessed with subjective ratings (0–100): clarity of vision and lack of ghosting (far away, intermediate, and near), vision when driving, overall vision satisfaction, and with monocular high-contrast and low-contrast visual acuity (HCVA/LCVA) at 6 m, binocular HCVA (6 m, 70 cm, 50 cm, and 40 cm), binocular LCVA (6 m and 70 cm). Binocular function was assessed with heterophorias (3 m and 40 cm). Accommodative function was assessed with monocular accommodative facility (AF: 40 cm) and dynamic monocular accommodative response (AR: 6 m, 70 cm, and 40 cm).

Results:

F2 was rated higher than MiSight for clarity of vision (near and intermediate) and lack-of-ghosting (P<0.001), while MiSight was rated higher than DT for clarity of vision (near, P<0.001). MiSight was better than F2 and DT for monocular HCVA (6 m) and binocular HCVA (6 m and 40 cm, P≤0.02), but the maximum difference was ≤2 letters. There were no differences between designs for heterophoria (P=0.61) nor were there any differences between DT and MiSight for any accommodative measure (P>0.1). F2 was higher for monocular-AF (P=0.007) and lower for AR (70 cm and 40 cm; P≤0.007) compared with MiSight.

Conclusions:

The visual performance and binocular/accommodative function of S.T.O.P. designs F2 and DT were comparable with MiSight. F2 outperformed MiSight in some aspects of subjective visual performance and monocular accommodative function.
Census: accurate, automated, deep, fast, and hierarchical scRNA-seq cell-type annotation
Authors: Ghaddar Bassel , De Subhajyoti
Published: October 2022

We developed Census, an automated, hierarchical cell-type identification method for scRNA-seq data that can deeply annotate normal cells in mammalian tissues and identify malignant cells and their likely cell of origin. When benchmarked on 44 atlas-scale normal and cancer, human and mouse tissues, Census significantly outperforms state-of-the-art methods across multiple metrics. Census is a fast and fully automated method, although users can seamlessly train their own models for customized applications.
An interactive and collaborative augmented reality environment for civil engineering education: steel reinforcement bars teaching as an example
Authors: Tan Yi , Xu Wenyu , Chen Keyu , Deng Chunyan , Wang Peng
Published: October 2022

Purpose

At present, teaching methods based on 2D drawings are still commonly used for educating students on the location of steel reinforcement bars in concrete. However, traditional teaching methods have limitations as students can find it difficult to understand 2D drawings. This study aims to develop an interactive and collaborative augmented reality environment (ICARE) using augmented reality (AR) technology to improve students' engagement in learning.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops an ICARE prototype, which is organized into two stages: (1) The augmented teaching environment comprising of models and interactive components; (2) The AR collaborative application which uses Photon Unity Networking (PUN) plugin and Azure spatial anchors cloud service. The AR-based teaching environment runs with Universal Windows Platform (UWP) to enable development in the HoloLens 2 through Microsoft Visual Studio.

Findings

An experimental study was conducted, where 60 students were divided into three groups employing Drawings-based, building information modeling (BIM)-based and AR-based methods for teaching. After the test, the three groups of students were requested to complete a questionnaire. According to the analysis of the experimental results, the ICARE can improve students' comprehension, memory of learned materials and their ability to read and understand steel reinforcement drawings improving the quality of teaching, especially interactivity and engagement.

Originality/value

As illustrated in the experiments, the developed ICARE has outstanding performance over conventional approaches in civil engineering courses that can improve students' comprehension and memory of knowledge and their ability to read and understand steel bar drawings. This study provides empirical evidence that AR is a promising technology that can be integrated with traditional classroom instruction and can improve students' comprehension and memory of knowledge and their ability to read and understand steel bar drawings.
Trial by media: evaluating the role of mainstream media and fact-checking agencies during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chongloi Haoginlen
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically assess the function of the media during the COVID-19 pandemic. It tries to understand how media corporations selectively polish a certain narrative against the other. It will also take into consideration the role of fact-checking agencies and its reliability in determining what is right and wrong.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses qualitative methods and relies on secondary data available in academic domains. In this paper, a specific case related with the COVID-19 pandemic is taken up. Conflicting accounts of health professionals both in academic and industry are compared and analysed. Professional integrity of fact-checking agencies as well goes through scrutiny.

Findings

After conducting a critical analysis, it is observed that media houses have violated certain ethics while presenting news and opinions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Without any consideration of fair presentation, the mainstream media resorted to presenting vaccine hesitancy as conspiracy and deplatformed such voice from the media. This violates one’s freedom to free speech and expression.

Research limitations/implications

It is a viewpoint from the side of a free speech abolitionist.

Practical implications

Press will realize that it failed in a number of occasions to uphold and protect its ethical values.

Originality/value

A study questioning the role of media during the COVID-9 pandemic is rare. In this regard, adequate literature is always a difficulty considering the amount of censorship imposed by health agencies, academic institutions and the media. This particular study is built of limited yet reliable information made available by academicians and independent health professionals. As such, the value of work which focuses on the alternative perspectives is believed to add value to health professionals, policymakers, media professionals and the general population.
Open learning design for using open educational practices in high school learning contexts and beyond
Authors: Roberts Verena
Published: October 2022

Purpose

There is a need for research that examines how digital networks can support all learners in open access to people, resources and experiences that were previously inaccessible in K-12 learning contexts. This study aims to examine the potential of open education theories and open practices in high school learning environments.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a design-based research approach, this study used the open learning design intervention framework to examine the experiences of a researcher, a teacher and Grade 10 students who expanded their learning from formal to informal learning environments by integrating open educational practices (OEP). The research occurred through three specific phases with iterative cycles that were responsive to research participants and data analysis at each phase.

Findings

The key findings suggest that open learning in high school is dependent upon opportunities for learners to co-design personally relevant learning pathways. The emerging design framework highlighted the need to emphasize the complexity of the students’ lived experiences in connection with the curriculum (formal learning environments) to promote a diversity of perspectives and shared connections (in informal learning environments). Second, learners need the opportunity to share their learning experiences collaboratively and individually by transparently demonstrating their learning processes in relevant ways and open practices provide the digital and community spaces to share knowledge. Finally, open learning occurs through stages and continuums and is a personal learning experience that transcends the boundaries of formal learning environments.

Originality/value

This study expands the current conceptual framework of open learning design by contributing a K-12 lens from which to consider the potential of OEP to promote personal learning pathways. Although the research considered a K-12 context, the OLDI Framework can be extended upon and used in any open learning design context including higher education.
The consistency of projected online destination images: comparing the official websites and Instagram accounts of main destinations in Southeast Asia
Authors: Syafganti Imam , Ramadanty Sari , Walrave Michel
Published: October 2022

Purpose

In the context of integrated promotion, it is essential to promote destination images consistently across multiple digital channels. This study aims to examine the consistency of online destination images projected through the official tourism websites and the Instagram accounts of five main destinations in Southeast Asia.

Design/methodology/approach

Previous studies have used correspondence analyses to measure the relationship between categorical variables. In the present study, a Spearman’s rank-order correlation was performed after the correspondence analyses to cross-check the results.

Findings

Destinations in Southeast Asia tend to project images that are similar to each other. The correspondence analyses and Spearman’s correlation found that only one country in the area projected relatively consistent destination images. By contrast, the other destinations tend to promote inconsistent images through their official websites and Instagram accounts.

Originality/value

Previous studies have assessed the consistency of projected destination image by comparing communication channels managed by government/public organisations with channels of private sector organisations. This was achieved by comparing printed materials with digital channels. By contrast, this study highlights the importance of assessing a destination’s online projected image consistency across different digital platforms (official tourism websites and official Instagram accounts) within the perspective of integrated promotion.