bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Communicative Tasks of The Speech Tactic «Focusing Attention» Within the Self-Presentation Strategy in the Educational Discourse (Based on the Material of Teaching Foreign Languages at the University)
Authors: Rashchupkina K.
Published: May 2023

The article talks about the communicative tasks of the tactics of “Focusing attention” within the framework of the strategy of self-presentation in the educational discourse on the material of teaching foreign languages at the university. Aim. As the purpose of the study, a comprehensive study of the communicative tasks of the speech tactics of “Focusing attention” is highlighted based on the analysis of the discursive practices obtained in the context of the teaching type of discourse. In the work, the author gives his interpretation of this tactic, considers it from the positions of the speech-acting and lexico-semantic levels.

Methodology. The author gives concrete examples obtained from the survey and analyzes the replicas from the point of view of the theory of speech acts and language explication based on four languages: English, Russian, German and French.

The result of the study is a comprehensive description of the speech content of tactics “Focusing attention” in the situation of educational activity in the classroom, identifying lexical and semantic means of expressing this tactic. The scientific novelty of the proposed research consists in an attempt to fully present the solution of the communicative tasks of the speech tactic “Accentuation of attention” within the framework of the study of the academic discipline “Foreign Language” at the university and taking into account the strategy of self-presentation.

The practical significance of the research lies in the possibility of applying the results obtained in the development of general and special courses on language theory, theory of speech influence, stylistics, pragmatics of speech communication, rhetoric, methods of teaching foreign languages.
Teacher of Russian as a Foreign Language – the Face of Russia
Authors: Koneva N.
Published: May 2023

This article describes the indispensable contribution that Anatoly N. Shchukin made to the methodology of teaching Russian as a foreign language and to its development. The article discusses the role of the teacher who teaches different aspects of the Russian language to foreign students. The object of analysis is educational and strategic goals. These goals increase students’ motivation during the learning process and develop a respectful, friendly, and positive attitude to Russia and to the Russian language and Russian culture among foreign students who study Russian.
Role of dynamic thoracoscopy in treatment of pleural complications of bacterial destruction of the lungs in children
Authors: Losev A. , Samofalov D
Published: May 2023

A total of 93 children with pleural complications of destructive pneumonia were randomised, and all the patients get studymethod of dynamic thoracoscopy. Evaluation of changes in lung and pleura were made. Basing to this changes-the stages of destructive process were developed. On the base of the stages patogenetical treatment was suggested. In the treatment group (n=56) method of fractional washing of pleural cavity, and the method of local antibioticotherapy was used. No complications resulted from the thoracoscopies and there was no need for further surgical intervention in any of these patients. We conclude that dynamic thoracoscopy allows for minimally invasive, yet effective treatment pleural complications of destructive pneumonia. Thoracoscopic visualization of the pleural cavity permits efficient debridement, thorough adhesiolysis, and optimal placement of drainage tubes.
Producción de inferencias explicativas en la comprensión de textos expositivos: el papel de la aptitud verbal, la memoria de trabajo y la atención selectiva
Authors: Barreyro Juan Pablo , Ordoñez Joaquín , Formoso Jesica , Calero Alejandra
Published: May 2023

El objetivo del presente trabajo consistió en estudiar el rol de la atención selectiva, el componente retentivo y ejecutivo de información de la memoria de trabajo, y la aptitud verbal en la producción de inferencias explicativas en la comprensión de textos expositivos. Con este propósito, 171 estudiantes universitarios completaron pruebas de memoria de trabajo, atención selectiva, aptitud verbal y cuestionarios de inferencias explicativas luego de leer textos expositivos. Los resultados de las ecuaciones estructurales muestran que la producción de inferencias se explica de manera directa por la aptitud verbal y el componente ejecutivo de la memoria de trabajo. El análisis también detectó una relación de interacción de mediación entre las capacidades de producir inferencias explicativas, de atención selectiva y de almacenamiento de información verbal en memoria de trabajo. Estos componentes mostraron un efecto indirecto sobre la capacidad de inferir vía el componente ejecutivo de la memoria de trabajo. Lo anterior sugiere que la capacidad de inferir explicaciones en la comprensión está fuertemente relacionada con la aptitud verbal y la capacidad de procesar información en la memoria de trabajo, mientras que el componente retentivo y de atención selectiva muestran un impacto mediado por la memoria de trabajo.
Why does Bowel Dysfunction Occur After an Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer?
Authors: Burch Jennie , Taylor Claire , Wilson Ana , Norton Christine
Published: May 2023

Patients often report bowel problems after bowel surgery for rectal cancer, the procedure for which is anterior resection and involves the removal of part of the rectum. These symptoms are collectively referred to as low anterior resection syndrome. A recently published definition of this phenomenon describes a range of bowel symptoms and their consequences, as well as the impact they can have on a person’s lifestyle and quality of life. It is useful to have an understanding of the changes that occur after an anterior resection and why they occur, to be able to provide appropriate information to patients preparing for an anterior resection about what to expect and to assist with symptom management after surgery.
Digital Technology to Improve Consultation in IBD Care: a Literature Review
Authors: Squires Seth Ian , Cund Audrey
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Digital technology designed to improve care for patients with inflammatory bowel disease has received increased attention in recent years. In the UK, technology in this area has been developed and preliminary reports of pilot programs have shown promising results. When considering the range of designs and purposes that technology can incorperate, the concept of a ‘digital consultation’ has become a crucial factor. To develop digital solutions effectively in clinical practice for inflammatory bowel disease services, it is essential to understand the existing published evidence base on what a ‘digitally enhanced’ consultation may entail.

Methods

A literature search was conducted by searching the Embase, CINAHL and Medline databases using the following search terms: ‘inflammatory bowel disease’, ‘gastroenterology’, ‘chronic disease’, ‘e-health’, ‘digital health’ and ‘outpatient consultations’. The search was limited to articles written in English. Initially, 313 articles were retrieved. To refine the results and focus on web portals/mobile apps that enhance a consultation, abstracts were reviewed and irrelevant articles were removed. A date range of 2016–2021 was applied, which resulted in 13 relevant research articles.

Results

A total of 10 technologies were described and five themes emerged; ‘disease activity’, ‘quality of life’, ‘quality of care’, ‘healthcare utilisation’ and ‘test of change’. The retrieved articles were critically evaluated.

Conclusions

Inflammatory bowel disease services must decide what they wish to achieve by using digital technology. Some centres may wish to improve access, while others aim to improve the quality of the care that they provide. This review illustrates variation in both aim, design and construct, which has led to a difference in results.
Gut Microbiota: a Perspective for Postpartum Depression
Authors: Vadaei Sima , Milani Payam Gonbari , Soleimani Roya Abedi , Soleimani Azar Abedi
Published: May 2023

Maternal postpartum depression, one of the most prevalent and incapacitating side effects of motherhood, is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. However, treatment results are still far from ideal. It has recently come to light that dietary changes are linked to changes in gut flora, which raises health risks and makes people more susceptible to a number of diseases. The gut microbiota plays a significant regulating role in the progression of psychiatric illnesses such postpartum depression. Probiotics and prebiotics have recently acquired popularity in studies on mental health and disease. In this review, the authors explore the connection between postpartum depression and gut microbiota, risk factors and how probiotic bacteria work to lessen symptoms, as well as the possibility of using probiotic bacteria as a useful postpartum depression therapy component.
Clinical Digest
Authors: Batas Renata
Published: May 2023

A brief overview of recently published articles on wound, ostomy and contience care
Graph degeneracy and orthogonal vector representations
Authors: Mitchell Lon
Published: May 2023

We apply a technique of Sinkovic and van der Holst for constructing orthogonal vector representations of a graph whose complement has given treewidth to graphs whose complement has given degeneracy.
Expressions and characterizations for the Moore-Penrose inverse of operators and matrices
Authors: Morillas Patricia
Published: May 2023

Under certain conditions, we prove that the Moore-Penrose inverse of a sum of operators is the sum of the Moore-Penrose inverses. From this, we derive expressions and characterizations for the Moore-Penrose inverse of an operator that are useful for its computation. We give formulations of them for finite matrices and study the Moore-Penrose inverse of circulant matrices and of distance matrices of certain graphs.
Multi-alternating sign matrices
Authors: Brualdi Richard , Dahl Geir
Published: May 2023

We introduce a generalization of alternating sign matrices (ASMs) called multiASMs and develop some of their properties. Classes of multiASMs with specified row and column sum vectors $R$ and $S$ extend the classes of $(0,1)$-matrices with specified $R$ and $S$. The special case when $R=S$ is a constant vector, in particular all 2's, is treated in more detail. We also investigate the polytope spanned by a class of multiASMs. Finally, we discuss the possibility of defining a Bruhat order on a class of multiASMs.
The Power of Economies of Scale: A Wind Industry Case Study
Authors: Nowakoski Gary A. , Loomis David G.
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the impact that economies of scale have had in the success of the wind industry in the United States since 1980 including the trend to larger wind turbines and wind farms and assembly learning curve effects. Analyses utilize average U.S. wind industry historical data to assess past performance and predict the future economic potential for both onshore and offshore wind turbine industries. The intent of this analysis is to serve as a case study to demonstrate the importance of selecting the right product design platform and how the ability to scale a technology can impact the success of products and, in this case, an entire multi-billion dollar industry. From the early stages of development, the wind industry recognized this opportunity and enabled the commercialization of larger and larger wind turbines and subsequently exploited the significant economies of scale possible in producing low-cost electricity via large, horizontal axis turbines and associated wind plants. The cost to produce electricity was reduced more than six-fold over this timeframe and is competitive today with conventional fossil-fuel power generation alternatives. The physics of horizontal axis wind turbines enables them to scale up disproportionately in electric power output and annual energy production with increased size/nameplate rating.
Towards Mobile Fronthaul for 6G Networks
Authors: Gomes Nathan J.
Published: May 2023

In less than a decade, rapid developments have taken place in mobile fronthaul technology. As research and development for 6G commences, the future possible directions for fronthaul technology will be outlined in this tutorial.
Racial differences in COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Arkansas
Authors: Amick III Benjamin C. , Allen Jaimi L. , Brown Clare C. , Goudie Anthony , Tilford Mick , Williams Mark
Published: May 2023

Vaccines are one of the most successful tools for protecting the public’s health. However, widespread vaccine hesitancy in the Southern United States is preventing effective mitigation of the current COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to assess COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among adults living in a largely rural Southern state. This cross-sectional study collected data from 1,164 Arkansas residents between October 3 and October 17, 2020 using random digit dialing. The primary outcome was a multidimensional COVID-19 vaccine acceptance measure with scores between -3 to +3. The full COVID-19 vaccine acceptance scale was measured along with perceived vaccine safety, effectiveness, acceptance, value, and legitimacy subscales. Statistical analyses were conducted using multivariable linear regression. Results indicated Black participants had the lowest overall vaccine acceptance (0.5) compared to White participants (1.2). Hispanic participants had the highest scores (1.4). In adjusted models, Black participants had 0.81 points lower acceptance than White participants, and Hispanic participants had 0.35 points higher acceptance. Hispanic participants had the highest scores for all five vaccine acceptance subscales, relatively equivalent to White participants. Black participants had consistently lower scores, especially perceived vaccine safety (mean -0.2, SD 0.1). In conclusion, the lowest vaccine acceptance rates were among Black participants particularly on perceived vaccine safety. While Black participants had the lowest acceptance scores, Hispanic participants had the highest. This variability shows the value of a multidimensional vaccine acceptance measure to inform COVID-19 vaccination campaign strategies.
Food neophilics’ choice of an ethnic restaurant: The moderating role of authenticity
Authors: Premordia Inda , Gál Timea
Published: May 2023

This study attempts to identify the salient factors affected by food neophilia and its interaction with demand authenticity in the choice of an ethnic restaurant. By undertaking a series of multivariate and univariate analyses between these two predictors and five key dining attributes: food quality, service quality, FLEs attitude, atmosphere, and price, it is revealed that restaurant customers consider different factors in their buying decision process, depending on individuals’ food neophilia level, needs for authenticity, and demographic characteristics. The results show that authentic quality of food, authentic atmosphere, friendly and prompt service encounters are the most important factors. The findings further suggest that price sensitivity is higher in the market with a low to moderate need for authenticity. Cultural backgrounds, on the other hand, seem to influence how customers embrace roles and professional skills of the frontline staff rather than customer-employee relationship. Given the lack of research in examining food neophilia in the ethnic restaurant selection empirically, this study allows a better understanding of this market segment which contributes to the body of knowledge in the field of food consumption and preferences as well as offers useful insights for ethnic restaurant businesses.
Porous phosphate-based bioactive glass /β-TCP scaffold for tooth remineralization
Authors: Ruiz-Aguilar Criseida
Published: May 2023

The total or partial loss of teeth in the Mexican population due to periodontal diseases and trauma causes the development of other conditions, such as limitations in chewing and grinding food, pronunciation difficulties, and oral aesthetic alterations. In Mexico, oral diseases have been described to affect 87% of the population, according to reports by the health services, emphasizing that pregnant women and patients with diabetes mellitus have the highest risk of presenting with severe periodontal diseases or tooth loss, according to findings by the Mexican Health Department’s Specific Action Program for the prevention, detection, and control of oral health problems (2013–2018). There was a 92.6% prevalence of dental caries in the population examined, and the prevalence of periodontal problems, mainly in 40-year-olds, was above 95%. The objective of this investigation was to manufacture and characterize porous 3D scaffolds with innovative chemical compositions, using phosphate-based bioactive glass, beta-phase tricalcium phosphate, and zirconium oxide, in variable quantities. The scaffold manufacturing method combined two techniques: powder metallurgy and polymer foaming. The results obtained in this research were promising since the mechanically tested scaffolds showed values of compressive strength and modulus of elasticity in the range of human trabecular bone. On the other hand, the in vitro evaluation of the samples immersed in artificial saliva at days 7 and 14 presented the calcium/phosphorus ratio = 1.6; this value is identical to the reported state-of-the-art figure, corresponding to the mineral phase of the bones and teeth. Likewise, the precipitation of the flower-like morphology was observed on the entire surface of the scaffold without zirconia; this morphology is characteristic of hydroxyapatite. On the other hand, the samples with 0.5 and 1.0 mol% zirconia showed less hydroxyapatite formation, with a direct correlation between scaffold dissolution and the amount of zirconia added.
Does antibiotic awareness campaigns exposure decrease intention to demand antibiotic treatment? Testing a structural model among parents in Western Australia
Authors: Alejandro Aaron Lapuz , Leo Wei Wei Cheryl , Bruce Mieghan , Gimutao Kaymart
Published: May 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the key public health concerns the world is facing today. The effect of antibiotic awareness campaigns (AACs) on consumer behaviour has been documented in the literature with mixed results. Understanding the mechanism for how AACs affect target populations is vital in designing effective and tailored campaigns. Using structural equation modelling our study examined the relationships among people’s exposure to antibiotic awareness campaigns, knowledge of AMR prevention, AMR risk perception, and intention to seek antibiotic treatment. This study also tested the moderating effect of anxiety and societal responsibility on preventing AMR, and on their intention to demand antibiotic treatment mediated by knowledge of AMR prevention and risk-perception. Primary data was generated using an online survey of 250 Western Australian parents. We tested our hypotheses using reliability and validity tests and structural equation modelling. Our results show that exposure to AACs alone may not be enough to change parental intention to demand antibiotic prescription for their children. Parental risk perception of AMR and parental anxiety affect intention to demand antibiotics, and the view that AMR is a social responsibility has a moderating effect on intention to demand antibiotics. These factors could be considered and combine messaging strategies in designing future antibiotic awareness campaigns.
Medication self-management interventions for persons with stroke: A scoping review
Authors: Cadel Lauren , Cimino Stephanie R. , Bradley-Ridout Glyneva , Hitzig Sander L. , Patel Tejal , Ho Chester H. , Packer Tanya L. , Lofters Aisha K. , Hahn-Goldberg Shoshana , McCarthy Lisa M. , Guilcher Sara J. T.
Published: May 2023

The use of multiple medications is common following a stroke for secondary prevention and management of co-occurring chronic conditions. Given the use of multiple medications post-stroke, optimizing medication self-management for this population is important. The objective of this scoping review was to identify and summarize what has been reported in the literature on interventions related to medication self-management for adults (aged 18+) with stroke. Electronic databases (Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, EBSCO CINAHL, Ovid PsycINFO, Web of Science) and grey literature were searched to identify relevant articles. For inclusion, articles were required to include an adult population with stroke undergoing an intervention aimed at modifying or improving medication management that incorporated a component of self-management. Two independent reviewers screened the articles for inclusion. Data were extracted and summarized using descriptive content analysis. Of the 56 articles that met the inclusion criteria, the focus of most interventions was on improvement of secondary stroke prevention through risk factor management and lifestyle modifications. The majority of studies included medication self-management as a component of a broader intervention. Most interventions used both face-to-face interactions and technology for delivery. Behavioural outcomes, specifically medication adherence, were the most commonly targeted outcomes across the interventions. However, the majority of interventions did not specifically or holistically target medication self-management. There is an opportunity to better support medication self-management post-stroke by ensuring interventions are delivered across sectors or in the community, developing an understanding of the optimal frequency and duration of delivery, and qualitatively exploring experiences with the interventions to ensure ongoing improvement.
Characterization of an accessory plasmid of Sinorhizobium meliloti and its two replication-modules
Authors: Luchetti Abril , Castellani Lucas G. , Toscani Andrés Martin , Lagares Antonio , Del Papa María Florencia , Torres Tejerizo Gonzalo , Pistorio Mariano
Published: May 2023

Rhizobia are Gram-negative bacteria known for their ability to fix atmospheric N2 in symbiosis with leguminous plants. Current evidence shows that rhizobia carry in most cases a variable number of plasmids, containing genes necessary for symbiosis or free-living, a common feature being the presence of several plasmid replicons within the same strain. For many years, we have been studying the mobilization properties of pSmeLPU88b from the strain Sinorhizobium meliloti LPU88, an isolate from Argentina. To advance in the characterization of pSmeLPU88b plasmid, the full sequence was obtained. pSmeLPU88b is 35.9 kb in size, had an average GC % of 58.6 and 31 CDS. Two replication modules were identified in silico: one belonging to the repABC type, and the other to the repC. The replication modules presented high DNA identity to the replication modules from plasmid pMBA9a present in an S. meliloti isolate from Canada. In addition, three CDS presenting identity with recombinases and with toxin-antitoxin systems were found downstream of the repABC system. It is noteworthy that these CDS present the same genetic structure in pSmeLPU88b and in other rhizobial plasmids. Moreover, in all cases they are found downstream of the repABC operon. By cloning each replication system in suicide plasmids, we demonstrated that each of them can support plasmid replication in the S. meliloti genetic background, but with different stability behavior. Interestingly, while incompatibility analysis of the cloned rep systems results in the loss of the parental module, both obtained plasmids can coexist together.
Oxalic acid blocked the binding of spike protein from SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529) variants to human angiotensin-converting enzymes 2
Authors: Wang Meng , Yan Huimin , Chen Lu , Wang Yu , Li Lin , Zhang Han , Miao Lin
Published: May 2023

An epidemic of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is spreading worldwide. Moreover, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, such as Delta and Omicron, has seriously challenged the application of current therapeutics including vaccination and drugs. Relying on interaction of spike protein with receptor angiotensin-converting enzymes 2 (ACE2), SARS-CoV-2 successfully invades to the host cells, which indicates a strategy that identification of small-molecular compounds to block the entry is of great significance for COVID-19 prevention. Our study evaluated the potential efficacy of natural compound oxalic acid (OA) as an inhibitory agent against SARS-CoV-2 invasion, particular on the interaction of the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Delta and Omicron variants to ACE2. By employing a competitive binding assay in vitro, OA significantly blocked the binding of RBDs from Delta B.1.617.2 and Omicron B.1.1.529 to ACE2, but has no effect on the wide-type SARS-CoV-2 strain. Furthermore, OA inhibited the entries of Delta and Omicron pseudovirus into ACE2 high expressing-HEK293T cells. By surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, the direct bindings of OA to RBD and ACE2 were analyzed and OA had both affinities with RBDs of B.1.617.2 and B.1.1.529 and with ACE2. Molecular docking predicted the binding sites on the RBD-ACE2 complex and it showed similar binding abilities to both complex of variant Delta or Omicron RBD and ACE2. In conclusion, we provided a promising novel small-molecule compound OA as an antiviral candidate by blocking the cellular entries of SARS-CoV-2 variants.
An integer GARCH model for a Poisson process with time-varying zero-inflation
Authors: Ratnayake Isuru Panduka , Samaranayake V. A.
Published: May 2023

A serially dependent Poisson process with time-varying zero-inflation is proposed. Such formulations have the potential to model count data time series arising from phenomena such as infectious diseases that ebb and flow over time. The model assumes that the intensity of the Poisson process evolves according to a generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic (GARCH) formulation and allows the zero-inflation parameter to vary over time and be governed by a deterministic function or by an exogenous variable. Both the expectation maximization (EM) and the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) approaches are presented as possible estimation methods. A simulation study shows that both parameter estimation methods provide good estimates. Applications to two real-life data sets on infant deaths due to influenza show that the proposed integer-valued GARCH (INGARCH) model provides a better fit in general than existing zero-inflated INGARCH models. We also extended a non-linear INGARCH model to include zero-inflation and an exogenous input. This extended model performed as well as our proposed model with respect to some criteria, but not with respect to all.
Metabolically active bacteria detected with click chemistry in low organic matter rainwater
Authors: Guillemette Ryan , Harwell Matthew C. , Brown Cheryl A.
Published: May 2023

Rain contains encapsulated bacteria that can be transported over vast distances during relatively short periods of time. However, the ecological significance of bacteria in “precontact” rainwater–rainwater prior to contact with non-atmospheric surfaces–remains relatively undefined given the methodological challenges of studying low-abundance microbes in a natural assemblage. Here, we implement single-cell “click” chemistry in a novel application to detect the protein synthesis of bacteria in precontact rainwater samples as a measure of metabolic activity. Using epifluorescence microscopy, we find approximately 103–104 bacteria cells mL-1 with up to 7.2% of the observed cells actively synthesizing protein. Additionally, our measurement of less than 30 μM total organic carbon in the samples show that some rainwater bacteria can metabolize substrates in very low organic matter conditions, comparable to extremophiles in the deep ocean. Overall, our results raise new questions for the field of rainwater microbiology and may help inform efforts to develop quantitative microbial risk assessments for the appropriate use of harvested rainwater.
Minimum tick size, market quality and costs of trade execution in Vietnam
Authors: Vo Duc Hong , Doan Bao
Published: May 2023

The Vietnamese government introduced a change in the minimum tick size for stock trading on 12 September 2016 to improve market quality and reduce trade execution costs. The intended effects of this policy have not been widely investigated in an emerging market such as Vietnam. We use data on trade and quote intraday of all stocks listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange for the periods before and after the event, with a one-week break from 12/9/2016 to 18/9/2016, for the market to adapt to the new tick size policy. Findings from this paper confirm that the trading cost is reduced following the change to the smallest tick size. However, this is different for large trades executed at the stock price associated with a larger tick size. Furthermore, the findings are robust with a different sample period. These findings imply that introducing a change in tick size in Vietnam in 2016 is desirable for improving market quality. However, the differentiation of these changes in different ranges of stock prices is not necessarily effective for improving market quality and reducing trade execution costs.
Importance of missingness in baseline variables: A case study of the All of Us Research Program
Authors: Cronin Robert M. , Feng Xiaoke , Sulieman Lina , Mapes Brandy , Garbett Shawn , Able Ashley , Hale Ryan , Couper Mick P. , Sansbury Heather , Ahmedani Brian K. , Chen Qingxia
Published: May 2023

Objective

TheAll of UsResearch Program collects data from multiple information sources, including health surveys, to build a national longitudinal research repository that researchers can use to advance precision medicine. Missing survey responses pose challenges to study conclusions. We describe missingness inAll of Usbaseline surveys.

Study design and setting

We extracted survey responses between May 31, 2017, to September 30, 2020. Missing percentages for groups historically underrepresented in biomedical research were compared to represented groups. Associations of missing percentages with age, health literacy score, and survey completion date were evaluated. We used negative binomial regression to evaluate participant characteristics on the number of missed questions out of the total eligible questions for each participant.

Results

The dataset analyzed contained data for 334,183 participants who submitted at least one baseline survey. Almost all (97.0%) of the participants completed all baseline surveys, and only 541 (0.2%) participants skipped all questions in at least one of the baseline surveys. The median skip rate was 5.0% of the questions, with an interquartile range (IQR) of 2.5% to 7.9%. Historically underrepresented groups were associated with higher missingness (incidence rate ratio (IRR) [95% CI]: 1.26 [1.25, 1.27] for Black/African American compared to White). Missing percentages were similar by survey completion date, participant age, and health literacy score. Skipping specific questions were associated with higher missingness (IRRs [95% CI]: 1.39 [1.38, 1.40] for skipping income, 1.92 [1.89, 1.95] for skipping education, 2.19 [2.09–2.30] for skipping sexual and gender questions).

Conclusion

Surveys in the All of Us Research Program will form an essential component of the data researchers can use to perform their analyses. Missingness was low inAll of Usbaseline surveys, but group differences exist. Additional statistical methods and careful analysis of surveys could help mitigate challenges to the validity of conclusions.
Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine conventional surgery combined with traditional Chinese medicinal retention enema for tubal obstructive infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Sijia , Jin Shuo , Yang Liuqing , Wang Ling , Zhang Qin
Published: May 2023

Background

Chinese medicinal retention enemas have gradually attracted the attention of clinicians as an alternative approach for tubal obstructive infertility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of conventional surgery combined with traditional Chinese medicinal retention enemas for the treatment of tubal obstructive infertility.

Materials and methods

Eight electronic databases were searched from their inception to November 30, 2022. To assess the efficacy and safety of different treatments, following outcomes were measured: clinical pregnancy rate, clinical total effective rate, incidence of ectopic pregnancy, the improvement of Traditional Chinese Medicinal (TCM) symptoms, the improvement of the signs of obstructive tubal infertility and side effects.

Results

A total of 23 Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) with 1909 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results showed a higher pregnancy rate in the experimental group than in the control group (RR 1.75, 95% CI [1.58, 1.94], Z = 10.55, P<0.00001). The clinical total effective rate in the experimental group was higher than that in the control group (RR 1.28, 95% CI [1.23, 1.34], Z = 11.07, P<0.00001). The incidence of ectopic pregnancy in the experimental group was lower than that in the control group (RR 0.40, 95% CI [0.20, 0.77], Z = -2.73, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Based on current evidence, we concluded that conventional surgery combined with traditional Chinese medicinal retention enema for tubal obstructive infertility was superior to conventional surgery alone in improving the clinical pregnancy rate, improving clinical total effective rate, improving TCM symptoms, improving the signs of obstructive tubal infertility and lowering the incidence of ectopic pregnancy. However, further clinical trials with high-quality methodologies need to be conducted.
Hybrid channel structure and product quality distribution strategy for online retail platform
Authors: Zhang Qi , Liu Huaxin , Cai Zigong
Published: May 2023

Currently, platforms (such as Amazon.com and JD.com) are gradually transitioning from pure resellers to platforms providing hybrid channel structures. In a hybrid channel, the reselling channel and the agency channel on the platform are simultaneously used. Therefore, according to the agent who sells through the agency channel (manufacturer or third-party retailer), two kinds of hybrid channel structurers can be selected by the platform. At the same time, due to the intense competition caused by the hybrid channel structure, platforms take the initiative to implement the product quality distribution strategy in which different quality products are sold through various retailing channels. Thus, from the perspective of platforms, how to coordinate the selection of hybrid channel structures and the implementation of the product quality distribution strategy is a significant issue that has been overlooked in existing literature. This paper proposes game-theoretic models to investigate whether a platform should choose “which” hybrid channel structure to use and decide “whether” to adopt the product quality distribution strategy. Our analysis shows that the game equilibrium is affected by the commission rate, the product differentiation level, and the production cost. More specifically, first, it is interestingly found that if the product differentiation level exceeds a particular threshold, the product quality distribution strategy can negatively influence the retailer to abandon the hybrid retailing mode. In contrast, the manufacturer continues to sell through the agency channel as a part of the product distribution plan. Second, regardless of the channel configuration, we find that the platform chooses to increase the order quantity with the help of the product distribution plan. Third, contrary to popular belief, the product quality distribution strategy can only benefit the platform when the third-party retailer participates in hybrid retailing with a suitable commission rate and product differentiation level. Fourth, the platform should make decisions on the above two strategies concurrently; otherwise, agency sellers (manufacturer or third-party retailer) will oppose the product quality distribution strategy. Our key findings can assist stakeholders in making strategic decisions about hybrid retailing modes and product distribution.
Influence analysis and promotion countermeasures of green finance policy in China—Traceability based on grounded theory and validation using the csQCA method
Authors: Junjie Li , Ke Wen , Bei Zhang , Xin Dai , Meng Qi , Bangfan Liu
Published: May 2023

Green finance is closely related to sustainable energy development. Using the NVivo12plus software, a governance model of China’s green finance policy was constructed using 22 green finance policy texts at the central level as research objects. Furthermore, based on the csQCA method, Tosmana software was used to develop and verify a theoretical model of 19 policy text cases. The research results demonstrate that policy belief, policy objectives, policy tools, policy feedback, and policy cycle are the main components of China’s green finance policy governance. Furthermore, policy instruments are the fundamental factors affecting the governance effectiveness of China’s green finance policy. Policy goals and policy feedback dominate the influence pattern of green finance policy in China. There are three modes driving the influence of green finance policies: regulation-oriented, collaborative-driven, and tool-guided. Finally, for the optimization and improvement of green finance policies, three forces must be improved: stimulus force, driving force, and promotion force.
A nonstructural protein 1 capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay specific for dengue viruses
Authors: Lim Pei-Yin , Ramapraba Appanna , Loy Thomas , Rouers Angeline , Thein Tun-Linn , Leo Yee-Sin , Burton Dennis R. , Fink Katja , Wang Cheng-I
Published: May 2023

Dengue non-structural protein (NS1) is an important diagnostic marker during the acute phase of infection. Because NS1 is partially conserved across the flaviviruses, a highly specific DENV NS-1 diagnostic test is needed to differentiate dengue infection from Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. In this study, we characterized three newly isolated antibodies against NS1 (A2, D6 and D8) from a dengue-infected patient and a previously published human anti-NS1 antibody (Den3). All four antibodies recognized multimeric forms of NS1 from different serotypes. A2 bound to NS1 from DENV-1, -2, and -3, D6 bound to NS1 from DENV-1, -2, and -4, and D8 and Den3 interacted with NS1 from all four dengue serotypes. Using a competition ELISA, we found that A2 and D6 bound to overlapping epitopes on NS1 whereas D8 recognized an epitope distinct from A2 and D6. In addition, we developed a capture ELISA that specifically detected NS1 from dengue viruses, but not ZIKV, using Den3 as the capture antibody and D8 as the detecting antibody. This assay detected NS1 from all the tested dengue virus strains and dengue-infected patients. In conclusion, we established a dengue-specific capture ELISA using human antibodies against NS1. This assay has the potential to be developed as a point-of-care diagnostic tool.
Socio-demographic and regional differences in unmet healthcare needs among migrants in Europe
Authors: Kullamaa Lembe , Reile Rainer
Published: May 2023

Background

Different barriers that hinder migrants’ access to healthcare may have detrimental effect on health but also contribute to health inequalities. Given the lack of evidence on unmet healthcare needs among European migrant population, the study aimed to analyse the demographic, socio-economic and health-related patterning of unmet healthcare needs among migrants in Europe.

Methods

European Health Interview Survey data from 2013–2015 covering 26 countries was used to analyse associations of individual-level factors and unmet healthcare needs among migrants (n = 12,817). Prevalences and 95% confidence intervals for unmet healthcare needs were presented for geographical regions and countries. Associations between unmet healthcare needs and demographic, socio-economic, and health indicators were analysed using Poisson regression models.

Results

The overall prevalence of unmet healthcare needs among migrants was 27.8% (95% CI 27.1–28.6) but the estimate varied substantially across geographical regions in Europe. Unmet healthcare needs due to cost or access were patterned by various demographic, socio-economic, and health-related indicators but higher prevalence of UHN were universally found for women, those with the lowest income, and poor health.

Conclusions

While the high level of unmet healthcare needs illustrate migrants’ vulnerability to health risks, the regional variations in the prevalence estimates and individual-level predictors highlight the variations in national policies regarding migration and healthcare legislations and differences in welfare-systems across Europe in general.
Use of public sector diabetes eye services in New Zealand 2006–2019: Analysis of national routinely collected datasets
Authors: Silwal Pushkar Raj , Lee Arier C. , Squirrell David , Zhao Jinfeng , Harwood Matire , Vincent Andrea L. , Murphy Rinki , Ameratunga Shanthi , Ramke Jacqueline
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess diabetes eye service use in New Zealand among people aged ≥15 years by estimating service attendance, biennial screening rate, and disparities in the use of screening and treatment services.

Methods

We obtained Ministry of Health data from the National Non-Admitted Patient Collection on diabetes eye service events between 1 July 2006 and 31 December 2019 and sociodemographic and mortality data from the Virtual Diabetes Register and linked these using a unique patient identifier (encrypted National Health Index). We 1) summarized attendance at retinal screening and ophthalmology services, 2) calculated biennial and triennial screening rate, 3) summarized treatment with laser and anti-VEGF and used log-binomial regression to examine associations of all of these with age group, ethnicity, and area-level deprivation.

Results

In total, 245,844 people aged ≥15 years had at least one diabetes eye service appointment attended or scheduled; half of these (n = 125,821, 51.2%) attended only retinal screening, one-sixth attended only ophthalmology (n = 35,883, 14.6%) and one-third attended both (n = 78,300, 31.8%). The biennial retinal screening rate was 62.1%, with large regional variation (73.9% in Southern District to 29.2% in West Coast). Compared with NZ Europeans, Māori were approximately twice as likely to never receive diabetes eye care or to access ophthalmology when referred from retinal screening, 9% relatively less likely to receive biennial screening and received the fewest anti-VEGF injections when treatment was commenced. Disparities in service access were also present for Pacific Peoples compared to NZ Europeans, younger and older age groups compared to those aged 50–59 years and those living in areas with higher deprivation.

Conclusions

Access to diabetes eye care is suboptimal, with substantial disparity between age groups, ethnicity groups, area level deprivation quintile and across districts. Efforts to improve access to and quality of diabetes eye care services must include strengthening data collection and monitoring.
Dual protective effect of the association of plant extracts and fluoride against dentine erosion: In the presence and absence of salivary pellicle
Authors: Niemeyer Samira Helena , Jovanovic Nikola , Sezer Sindy , Wittwer Lucas Sébastien , Baumann Tommy , Saads Carvalho Thiago
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To verify the protective effect of plant extracts associated with fluoride against dental erosion of dentine, in the presence and absence of a salivary pellicle.

Methods

Dentine specimens (n = 270) were randomly distributed into 9 experimental groups (n = 30/group): GT (green tea extract); BE (blueberry extract); GSE (grape seed extract); NaF (sodium fluoride); GT+NaF (green tea extract and NaF); BE+NaF (blueberry extract and NaF); GSE+NaF (grape seed extract and NaF); negative control (deionized water); and a positive control (commercialized mouthrinse containing stannous and fluoride). Each group was further divided into two subgroups (n = 15), according to the presence (P) or absence (NP) of salivary pellicle. The specimens were submitted to 10 cycles: 30 min incubation in human saliva (P) or only in humid chamber (NP), 2 min immersion in experimental solutions, 60 min of incubation in saliva (P) or not (NP), and 1 min erosive challenge. Dentine surface loss (dSL-10 and dSL-total), amount of degraded collagen (dColl) and total calcium release (CaR) were evaluated. Data were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn’s and Mann-Whitney U tests (p>0.05).

Results

Overall, the negative control presented the highest values of dSL, dColl and CaR, and the plant extracts showed different degrees of dentine protection. For the subgroup NP, GSE showed the best protection of the extracts, and the presence of fluoride generally further improved the protection for all extracts. For the subgroup P, only BE provided protection, while the presence of fluoride had no impact on dSL and dColl, but lowered CaR. The protection of the positive control was more evident on CaR than on dColl.

Conclusion

We can conclude that the plant extracts showed a protective effect against dentine erosion, regardless of the presence of salivary pellicle, and that the fluoride seems to improve their protection.
The effectiveness of control measures during the 2022 COVID-19 outbreak in Shanghai, China
Authors: Hu Liangjian , Shi Meisong , Li Meili , Ma Junling
Published: May 2023

Background

In March 2022, the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 spread rapidly in Shanghai, China. The city adopted strict non-pharmacological intervention (NPI) measures, including lockdown (implemented on March 28 in Pudong and April 1 in Puxi) and blanket PCR testing (April 4). This study aims to understand the effect of these measures.

Methods

We tabulated daily case counts from official reports and fitted a two-patch stochastic SEIR model to the data for the period of March 19 to April 21. This model considered two regions in Shanghai, namely Pudong and Puxi, as the implementation of control measures in Shanghai was carried out on different dates in these regions. We verified our fitting results using the data from April 22 to June 26. Finally, we applied the point estimate of parameter values to simulate our model while varying the dates of control measure implementation, and studied the effectiveness of the control measures.

Results

Our point estimate for the parameter values yields expected case counts that agree well the data for both the periods from March 19 to April 21 and from April 22 to June 26. Lockdown did not significantly reduce the intra-region transmission rates. Only about 21% cases were reported. The underlying basic reproduction numberR0was 1.7, and the control reproduction number with both lockdown and blanket PCR testing was 1.3. If both measures were implemented on March 19, only about 5.9% infections would be prevented.

Conclusions

Through our analysis, we found that NPI measures implemented in Shanghai were not sufficient to reduce the reproduction number to below unity. Thus, earlier intervention only has limited effect on reducing cases. The outbreak dies out because of only 27% of the population were active in disease transmission, possibly due to a combination of vaccination and lockdown.