bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An adhesive wear model of rough gear surface considering modified load distribution factor
Authors: Wang Haihang , Zhou Changjiang , Hu Bo , Li Yunzhe
Published: January 2022

The gear wear is closely relative to the rough tooth surface morphology and the load distribution; however, their interactions have been rarely given focus. In this work, an adhesive wear model of rough gear surface is proposed considering modified load distribution factor. The mesh stiffness and load distribution factor are modified by the tooth surface morphology and wear depth. Then, the mean pressure is obtained by Hertzian theory, and the wear depths of the pinion and gear are calculated using Archard model. The wear model is verified by comparing with the pervious works. The effects of surface morphologies, geometric and operating parameters on the wear depth, mesh stiffness, and load distribution factor are investigated. Results indicate that (1) the wear depth is determined by profile error rather than roughness, and the wear depth and the load distribution factor increase with the profile error. (2) The roughness decreases, remains unchanged and then increases with the increment of the mesh cycle. (3) As the module and tooth width decrease or the input torque and mesh cycle increase, the tooth wear depth increases. These findings are significant in reducing tooth wear and improving the service life of gear drive.
Journalism ‘fixers’, hyper-precarity and the violence of the entrepreneurial self
Authors: Ashraf Syed I , Phelan Sean
Published: January 2022

The figure of the so-called journalism ‘fixer’ has received overdue academic attention in recent years. Scholars have highlighted the role played by fixers in international news reporting, a role historically obscured in the mythos of the Western foreign correspondent. Recent research has produced useful insights about the work done by fixers in ‘the shadows’ of the international news economy. However, it has also tended towards a domestication of the role, where the local ‘fixer’ finds their place in a collaborative relationship with those officially consecrated as ‘journalists’ from elsewhere. This article presents a critical theoretical analysis of this functional role, building on the image of the fixer as a kind of ‘entrepreneur’. Rather than interpreting the latter designation as a source of empowerment or agency, we approach it as a euphemism for the hyper-precarious and exploitative underpinnings of fixer-labour. Our argument draws on different theoretical sources, including Foucault-inspired work on the entrepreneurial rationality of the neoliberal self, Bourdieu’s notion of symbolic violence, and Rancière’s concept of politics. The theoretical argument is supported by the first author’s reflections of working as a Pakistani-based ‘fixer’ during the U.S-led war on terror.
The household in Isocrates’ political thought
Authors: Avgousti Andreas
Published: January 2022

In this article, I analyze the role the household ( oikos) plays in Isocrates through an exegesis of the author's letters to his erstwhile student and current monarch of Salamis of Cyprus, Nicocles. The monarch's household has a threefold role in the relationship between the elite ruler and his subjects. First, as the locus of his ancestors and their achievements, it offers competitors to Nicocles to be surpassed and a known standard for his subjects to judge their ruler. Second, as the source of the monarch's public outlay, the household is a means by which Nicocles can appear magnificent; at the same time, however, he should be wary lest his subjects judge him ostentatious. Third, Nicocles invites his subjects to judge his conjugal behavior, offering it as evidence of his moderation. I conclude my argument with a challenge to an interpretation of the relationship between the few and the many as a contract; rather, this relationship is better characterized through the metaphor of service ( therapeia) drawn from the household. Isocratean political thought treats private and public domains as continuous with one another, regarding participation in political institutions as neither necessary nor sufficient to achieving good political judgment.
Chronic Leg Ulcer Associated with Cutaneous IgG4-Related Disease
Authors: Chen Yi-Jye , Hsu Chih-Yi , Lin Chih-Hsun
Published: January 2022

Chronic leg ulcer occurs in up to 13% of the general population and leads to economic and health care burdens. Approximately 20% of chronic nonhealing wounds are related to autoimmune diseases or vasculitis. Of these, chronic wounds associated with IgG4-related disease, a group of fibroinflammatory disorders that can have cutaneous and systemic involvement, are rarely reported. This case report describes a chronic leg ulcer associated with cutaneous IgG4-related disease. In addition to disease control with anti-inflammatory agents, following the principles of wound management and providing adjuvant wound treatment (eg, debridement, dressing, photobiomodulation therapy, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy) can promote the wound healing process.
Optimal downlink power allocation schemes for OFDM-NOMA-based Internet of things
Authors: Gao Ya , Yu Fei , Zhang Haoran , Shi Yongpeng , Xia Yujie
Published: January 2022

With the continuous development of fifth-generation technology, the number of mobile terminal Internet of Things devices has increased exponentially. How to effectively improve the throughput of fifth-generation systems has become a challenge. In the Internet of Things networks, ultra-dense networks and non-orthogonal multiple access technology have drawn extensive attention in recent years, because they can achieve multiplexing from the space domain and power domain. To improve the throughput of the system, this article combines non-orthogonal multiple access with ultra-dense networks technology and considers the orthogonal frequency division multiplexing non-orthogonal multiple access–based ultra-dense networks with multiple base stations and multiple Internet of Things devices. In particular, first, we build the network model and channel model. Second, we construct the downlink transmission rate maximizing problem subject to the total power. Then, to solve this problem, we divide it into three sub-problems: device grouping, inter-sub-band power allocation, and intra-sub-band power allocation problems. Solving these sub-problems, we obtain the optimal power allocation schemes by jointly employing channel-state sorting–pairing algorithm, water-filling algorithm, and convex optimization theory. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to validate the performance of our proposed optimal downlink power allocation scheme. Experimental results show that the total throughput of the system has been significantly improved.
Only Ashes? Jewish Visitors to the New Poland in 1946 and the Future of Polish Jewry
Authors: Kijek Kamil
Published: January 2022

In this article, I will take a fresh look at the allegedly universal belief in the immediate post-war period that the Jews had no future in post-Holocaust Poland. While providing new analysis of reports from Poland in 1946 that were written by Jewish travellers from United States, Western Europe and Palestine, my revisionist goal is to problematize and question the concept of the ‘Holocaust aftermath.’ I seek to demonstrate that the widespread view of post-war Poland as the cemetery of Polish-Jewish civilization in the immediate post-war period did not – contrary to common perceptions today – necessarily lead to the conclusion that the subsequent marginalization of Polish Holocaust survivors and their departure from Poland was inevitable. This logic of inevitability crystallized only over the course of a couple of years. From 1946 to at least the intensification of the Communist dictatorship in 1948–49, such logic was matched by ambivalence and the cautious belief that a collective Jewish life, centred on national expressions of Jewish identity, was still feasible in Poland.
Computational treatment of statistical declaration probable error for flow of nanomaterials with irreversibility
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Ahmad Muhammad Waqar , Khan Sohail A , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: January 2022

The current investigation deals with entropy analysis for radiative flow of nanomaterials between two heated rotating disks. Titanium ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) and Graphene oxides are taken as nanoparticles. Water ([Formula: see text]) is used as a conventional base liquid. Dissipation and radiation effects are incorporated in energy equation. Rotating disks have different angular velocities. Both disks have different stretching rates. Attention is focused for statistical declaration and probable error. Physical feature of entropy analysis is studied through thermodynamics second law. Nonlinear partial system (PDEs) is reduced to ordinary one (ODEs). Homotopy analysis technique (HAM) is used for convergent series solution. Features of sundry variables on entropy optimization, temperature, Bejan number, and velocity are discussed for both nanoparticles ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]). Computational outcomes for velocity gradient and Nusselt number are addressed through tabulated values. For larger Reynold number the radial and axial velocities are decreased. Temperature is augmented for against higher Eckert number and radiation parameter. Bejan number and entropy rate are augmented versus radiation parameter. Bejan number and Entropy rate have opposite trend via Reynold number. Statistical declaration and probable error are deliberated via Tables.
Estimating team possessions in high-level European basketball competition
Authors: Charamis Evangelos , Marmarinos Christos , Ntzoufras Ioannis
Published: January 2022

The focus of this work is to estimate the number of team possessions in Euroleague basketball for seasons 2017–18, 2018–19 and 2019–20. To achieve this goal, we implemented the approaches proposed by Kubatko, et al. (2007). The statistical analysis on Euroleague data suggests a model similar to the one which is currently used in NBA with one, minor, difference. In Euroleague data, the coefficient of the percentage of the free throw attempts that ends a current possession is slightly higher than the corresponding coefficient in NBA (0.454 vs. 0.44). In a second stage, we have implemented the estimated Euroleague possessions equation in order to construct indicators for the performance evaluation of each Euroleague team. The most important indexes for team performance evaluation are the Net Rating and the Four Factors of Dean Oliver (2003). However, by applying a backwards stepwise regression analysis, a slightly improved model, in terms of fit to the data, has been identified. The new proposed “Three Pillars” model includes the offensive and defensive True Shooting percentage , Offensive Rebound percentage and Turnover percentage. Hence, this new proposed “Three Pillars” model can be used for the performance evaluation of European teams instead of the standard Four Factors model.
Does education improve adherence to a training monitoring program in recreational athletes?
Authors: McGuigan Hannah E. , Hassmén Peter , Rosic Nedeljka , Thornton Heidi R. , Stevens Christopher J.
Published: January 2022

Monitoring athletes’ training may help prevent negative consequences such as overtraining and burnout. However, acceptance or willingness of athletes to participate is a barrier to an effective training monitoring program. Educational strategies may potentially increase adherence. Therefore, our aims are to i) assess the impact of training monitoring education on adherence to a monitoring program; ii) determine the effect of the education intervention on burnout, stress, and recovery, and; iii) qualitatively investigate athlete perspectives of the education and training monitoring experience. Recreational athletes (18 male/17 female; age = 42.6 ± 12.0) were randomised to either a control ( n = 19) or education ( n = 16) group and completed daily training monitoring through a smartphone application over 10 weeks. Pre-post assessments using the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire, the Acute Recovery Stress Scale, and a perceived knowledge of training monitoring questionnaire, and semi-structured interviews were performed. Adherence was low, with no differences between the control group ([mean ± SD]; 43.0 ± 38.8%) and the education group (45.8 ± 36.7%). There were also no differences (p >0.05) between the groups on the standardised inventories. There was a significant effect of time (p <0.001) on participant's perceived understanding of training monitoring tools (scored out of 42) at the end of the washout period (Control: 24.4 ± 6.6; Education: 28.5 ± 5.6) and post-study (Control: 32.1 ± 7.5; Education: 35.1 ± 6.0) compared to the pre-study (Control: 21.5 ± 7.3; Education: 21.9 ± 7.7). Interviews revealed participants wanted more education on modifying their training, and feedback on their data. Our findings suggest this specific educational approach was not enough to increase adherence; other aspects of education and individual feedback needs to be further explored.
Perceptions and practices of fundamental movement skills in grassroots soccer coaches
Authors: Duncan Michael J. , Weldon Anthony , Barnett Lisa M. , Lander Natalie
Published: January 2022

This study presents the perceptions and practices of fundamental movement skills (FMS) in grassroots soccer coaches. One hundred and twenty-eight coaches (123 males, 5 females) completed an online mixed-method survey comprising 32 questions relating to: participant demographics, education, and qualifications; FMS perceptions, practices, and assessments, and the importance of FMS constructs; and other factors related to FMS. Frequency analysis was used to assess and report responses to fixed response and Likert-scale questions, and thematic analysis used for open-ended questions. Results indicated that grassroots soccer coaches have an awareness of the concept of FMS and value FMS as a contributor to developing general movement and soccer specific skills. However, there was a tendency for the coaches to conflate FMS with fitness. Coaches in the current study reported that developing FMS was useful to improve soccer development. The coaches suggested they assessed FMS but the measures they employed predominantly focused on more general movement outcomes. No coach used a valid or reliable process-oriented FMS assessment. Coaches used resources to inform their practice for FMS development, but the quality of resources accessed lacked an evidence base, with a reliance on social media. While the coaches in the current study reported valuing FMS, there are gaps in coach education and available evidence-based resources which inhibit the effective development of FMS within grassroots soccer practice. Providing training, qualifications and additional support for coaches related to FMS will aid implementation in practice.
Data-Becoming: History, Violence, and Justice
Authors: Crocker Jonathan W.
Published: January 2022

In this paper, I offer a materialist perspective on data-becoming through a series of (non)living encasements. The living bodies included as examples here (Emmett Till, William T. Simpson, and LaVerne Turner) point to a historical legacy of violence and justice that continues, albeit differently, in different contexts, at different times, and from different social positions. These encasements show that any meanings imbued in data are dependent on when and where it arises, what is intra-acting with it, and in what context. Along these lines, I suggest data is always in-process of becoming something other at the level of material intra-action. This paper understands the movement of racialized, gendered, and sexualized bodies for justice and their coincidental, intra-active relations as a set of ongoing, changing conditions that re/de/construct (non)violent realities across time and space. I offer a way to reconsider data as always evolving and resistant to the confines of written research which may open up pathways for non-binary applications of historical fact, violent encounter, and political justice in critical qualitative research.
Computational ethnography: A view from sociology
Authors: Brooker Phillip
Published: January 2022

This commentary elaborates on the ideas and projects outlined in this special issue, from a specifically sociological perspective. Much recent work in sociology proposes ‘methods mashups’ of ethnography and digital data/computational tools in different and diverse ways. However, typically, these have taken the form of applying (with or without tweaks) the principles of ethnography to new domains and data types, as if ethnography itself is stable and immutable; that it has a universal set of methodological principles that unify ethnographic practice. Returning to anthropology (whence, arguably, ethnography originally came) is, therefore, a useful way to extend our methodological thinking to (re)consider what ethnography is and how it operates, and from there think more clearly about how it may be effectively combined with digital data/computational tools in an emerging ‘Computational Anthropology’.
The feasibility and acceptability of digital technology for health and wellbeing in social housing residents in Cornwall: A qualitative scoping study
Authors: Buckingham Sarah Ann , Walker Tim , Morrissey Karyn ,   on behalf of the Smartline project team
Published: January 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and acceptability of digital technology for improving health and wellbeing in social housing residents living in a deprived area in Cornwall, England.

Methods

Qualitative scoping study with focus groups and telephone interviews (23 participants in total). Focus groups and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results

Levels of use and experience with digital technology were diverse in this group, ranging from ‘willing and unable’ to ‘expert’ on a self-perceived scale. Overall, participants had positive perceptions of technology and were keen to try new technologies. Five categories of factors influencing technology use were identified: functional, physical / health, psychological and attitudinal, technology-associated barriers, and privacy, safety and security. Preferred types of digital technology were wearable activity monitors (e.g. Fitbit®), virtual assistants (e.g. Amazon Alexa) and social messaging (e.g. WhatsApp). There was a strong consensus that technology should be easy to use and should have a clear purpose. There was a need to improve awareness, knowledge and confidence in technology use and participants desired further training and support.

Conclusions

There is a need and desire to use digital technology to improve health, wellbeing and social connectedness in social housing residents in Cornwall. The findings will be used to inform a digital training and support programme for the participants of the Smartline project. This study also serves as a template for future research that seeks to scope the feasibility and acceptability of different digital interventions in similar populations.
Use of a Research as Intervention Approach to Explore Telebehavioral Health Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Southeastern Idaho
Authors: Schow Diana C. , Thomson Ann , Trusty Wilson T. , Buchi-Fotre Laurel
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, telebehavioral health services have been a key contributor to continuation of care in rural and underserved areas of southeastern Idaho. Providers of telebehavioral health services faced numerous challenges as they navigated rapidly shifting regulations, variable access to internet and their own personal understandings of practice.

Objective:

This study aimed to characterize provider experiences, generate policy- and practice-level recommendations, and raise awareness among community stakeholders regarding telebehavioral health in southeastern Idaho.

Methods:

Using a newly developed conceptual/analytical framework, a research-as-intervention strategy was employed to conduct and analyze semi-structured interviews, short writings, and photographs from 7 primary care and behavioral health providers in the region.

Results:

Providers shared examples from practice that addressed technology and training, access-to-care, safety, changing provider roles, payment for services, treatments that are not well suited to telehealth and the nuances of living and working in newly forged spaces of care.

Conclusions:

Providers found promise in telebehavioral health’s utility as a hybrid model of care, but it must be supported by flexible legislation and policy. For example, it would help to make reimbursement expansions permanent and to simplify inter-jurisdictional practice options. Cross-sharing of information between licensing boards could help providers from various disciplines understand the parameters within which their colleagues must work.
How Does Monetary Policy Uncertainty Influence Firms’ Dynamic Adjustment of Capital Structure
Authors: Jiang Yan , Xu Yaping , Li Shengsheng
Published: January 2022

This study employs high-dimensional factors model to depict the development of monetary policy uncertainty (MPU) in China over the past decades and develops a logical analytical framework to analyze the effect of MPU on the dynamic adjustment of a firm’s capital structure through bank risk-taking channels. We investigate how MPU affects dynamic adjustment of a firm’s capital structure using a panel data set of China public manufacturers between 2007 and 2018 and find that the higher the MPU, the more detrimental it is to the dynamic adjustment of firm’s capital structure. Further, bank risk-taking plays the role of a financial stabilizer. In addition to the willingness to take risks in on-balance sheet operations and the scale of loans, the risk-taking of our banks may also be reflected in the adjustment of the off-balance-sheet shadow banking scale. This study also finds that in terms of on-balance sheet business, heighten MPU decreases the scale of bank credit and tightens loan approval criteria, in terms of off-balance sheet business, heighten MPU decreases the scale of shadow banking, thereby leading to a lower dynamic adjustment of firm’s capital structure.

JEL classification C13, C36, E50, G21
The ASH-ASPHO Choosing Wisely Campaign: 5 hematologic tests and treatments to question
Authors: O’Brien Sarah H. , Badawy Sherif M. , Rotz Seth J. , Shah Mona D. , Makarski Julie , Bercovitz Rachel S. , Hogan Mary-Jane S. , Luchtman-Jones Lori , Panepinto Julie A. , Priola Ginna M. , Witmer Char M. , Wolfson Julie A. , Yee Marianne , Hicks Lisa K.
Published: January 2022

Choosing Wisely is a medical stewardship and quality-improvement initiative led by the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation in collaboration with leading medical societies in the United States. The American Society of Hematology (ASH) has been an active participant in the Choosing Wisely project. In 2019, ASH and the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology (ASPHO) formed a joint task force to solicit, evaluate, and select items for a pediatric-focused Choosing Wisely list. By using an iterative process and an evidence-based method, the ASH-ASPHO Task Force identified 5 hematologic tests and treatments that health care providers and patients should question because they are not supported by evidence, and/or they involve risks of medical and financial costs with low likelihood of benefit. The ASH-ASPHO Choosing Wisely recommendations are as follows: (1) avoid routine preoperative hemostatic testing in an otherwise healthy child with no previous personal or family history of bleeding, (2) avoid platelet transfusion in asymptomatic children with a platelet count >10 × 103/μL unless an invasive procedure is planned, (3) avoid thrombophilia testing in children with venous access-associated thrombosis and no positive family history, (4) avoid packed red blood cells transfusion for asymptomatic children with iron deficiency anemia and no active bleeding, and (5) avoid routine administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for prophylaxis of children with asymptomatic autoimmune neutropenia and no history of recurrent or severe infections. We recommend that health care providers carefully consider the anticipated risks and benefits of these identified tests and treatments before performing them.
Synaptic Behaviors in Ferroelectric-Like Field-Effect Transistors with Ultrathin Amorphous HfO2 Film
Authors: Peng Yue , Xiao Wenwu , Zhang Guoqing , Han Genquan , Liu Yan , Hao Yue
Published: January 2022

We demonstrate a non-volatile field-effect transistor (NVFET) with a 3-nm amorphous HfO2 dielectric that can simulate the synaptic functions under the difference and repetition of gate voltage (VG) pulses. Under 100 ns write/erase (W/E) pulse, a memory window greater than 0.56 V and cycling endurance above 106 are obtained. The storied information as short-term plasticity (STP) in the device has a spiking post-synaptic drain current (ID) that is a response to the VG input pulse and spontaneous decay of ID. A refractory period after the stimuli is observed, during which the ID hardly varies with the VG well-emulating the bio-synapse behavior. Short-term memory to long-term memory transition, paired-pulse facilitation, and post-tetanic potentiation are realized by adjusting the VG pulse waveform and number. The experimental results indicate that the amorphous HfO2 NVFET is a potential candidate for artificial bio-synapse applications.
A spatiotemporal atlas of the lepidopteran pest Helicoverpa armigera midgut provides insights into nutrient processing and pH regulation
Authors: Ioannidis Panagiotis , Buer Benjamin , Ilias Aris , Kaforou Sofia , Aivaliotis Michalis , Orfanoudaki Georgia , Douris Vassilis , Geibel Sven , Vontas John , Denecke Shane
Published: January 2022

Background

Caterpillars from the insect order Lepidoptera are some of the most widespread and destructive agricultural pests. Most of their impact is at the larval stage, where the midgut epithelium mediates the digestion and absorption of an astonishing amount of food. Although this tissue has been the subject of frequent investigation in Lepidoptera, a comprehensive expression atlas has yet to be generated.

Results

Here, we perform RNA-sequencing and proteomics on the gut of the polyphagous pest Helicoverpa armigera across, life stages, diet types, and compartments of the anterior-posterior axis. A striking relationship between the structural homology and expression pattern of a group of sugar transporters was observed in the early larval stages. Further comparisons were made among the spatial compartments of the midgut, which suggested a putative role for vATPases and SLC9 transporters in the generation of alkaline conditions in the H. armigera midgut.

Conclusions

This comprehensive resource will aid the scientific community in understanding lepidopteran gut physiology in unprecedented resolution. It is hoped that this study advances the understanding of the lepidopteran midgut and also facilitates functional work in this field.
Transcriptome analysis reveals the mechanism of internode development affecting maize stalk strength
Authors: Xie Liuyong , Wen Daxing , Wu Chenglai , Zhang Chunqing
Published: January 2022

Background

The stalk rind is one of the important factors affecting maize stalk strength that is closely related to stalk lodging. However, the mechanism of rind development in maize is still largely unknown.

Results

In this study, we analyzed the mechanical, anatomical, and biochemical properties of the third basal internode in one maize non-stiff-stalk (NSS) line and two stiff-stalk (SS) lines. Compared with the NSS line, the two SS lines had a significantly higher rind penetrometer resistance, thicker rind, and higher dry matter, hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin weights per unit length. RNA-seq analysis was used to compare transcriptomes of the third basal internode of the two SS lines and the NSS line at the ninth leaf and tasseling stages. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that genes involved in hydrolase activity (hydrolyzing O-glycosyl compounds) and cytoskeleton organization were significantly up-regulated in the two SS lines at the ninth leaf stage and that microtubule process-related genes were significantly up-regulated in the two SS lines at the tasseling stage. Moreover, the two SS lines had enhanced expression of cell wall metabolism-related genes at the tasseling stage.

Conclusions

The synthesis of cell wall polysaccharides and the cytoskeleton might play important roles in internode development. Our results can be applied for screening lodging-resistant inbred lines and breeding lodging-resistant cultivars in maize.
A time series analysis of detection and mortality of hepatitis C in Brazil, 2008–2018
Authors: de Brito Rodrigo José Videres Cordeiro , da Silva Leonardo Feitosa , Santos Márcio Bezerra , de Moura Patrícia Muniz Mendes Freire , de Souza Carlos Dornels Freire , do Carmo Rodrigo Feliciano
Published: January 2022

Background

The 69th World Health Assembly approved the Global Health Sector Strategy to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection by 2030. In Brazil, efforts have been undertaken to achieve this goal; there are, however, great challenges. It is important to understand the disease profile in different regions of the country in order to design strategies to fight the disease nationwide. The objective of this study was to analyse the time trend of the incidence and mortality of hepatitis C in Brazil during the period from 2008 to 2018 according to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods

All newly diagnosed cases of hepatitis C reported between 2008 and 2018, in all regions of Brazil, were included. The indicators were obtained from the databases of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. For the time series analysis, a joinpoint regression model was used.

Results

Between 2008 and 2018, 136,759 newly diagnosed cases of hepatitis C were reported considering anti-HCV and HCV RNA positivity, and 271,624 newly diagnosed cases were reported considering one or another positive test. The majority of the records were concentrated in the Southeast (61%) and South (26.2%) Regions. The joinpoint regression model indicated an increasing trend in the detection rate of hepatitis C in Brazil, but there was a decreasing trend in the mortality rate during the period analysed.

Conclusions

Differences were observed in the time trend of hepatitis C and in the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics in different regions of Brazil. These data can provide support to design strategies for the elimination of hepatitis C in Brazil, according to regional particularities.
Does the 5–2-1 criteria identify patients with advanced Parkinson's disease? Real-world screening accuracy and burden of 5–2-1-positive patients in 7 countries
Authors: Malaty Irene A. , Martinez-Martin Pablo , Chaudhuri K. Ray , Odin Per , Skorvanek Matej , Jimenez-Shahed Joohi , Soileau Michael J. , Lindvall Susanna , Domingos Josefa , Jones Sarah , Alobaidi Ali , Jalundhwala Yash J. , Kandukuri Prasanna L. , Onuk Koray , Bergmann Lars , Femia Samira , Lee Michelle Y. , Wright Jack , Antonini Angelo
Published: January 2022

Background

The burden of Parkinson’s disease (PD) worsens with disease progression. However, the lack of objective and uniform disease classification challenges our understanding of the incremental burden in patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease (APD) and suboptimal medication control. The 5–2-1 criteria was proposed by clinical consensus to identify patients with advancing PD. Our objective was to evaluate the screening accuracy and incremental clinical burden, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and humanistic burden in PD patients meeting the 5–2-1 screening criteria.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Adelphi Parkinson’s Disease Specific Program (DSP™), a multi-country point-in-time survey (2017–2020). People with PD who were naive to device-aided therapy and on oral PD therapy were included. Patients meeting the 5–2-1 screening criteria had one or more of the three clinical indicators of APD: (i) ≥5 doses of oral levodopa/day, OR (ii) “off” symptoms for ≥2 h of waking day, OR (iii) ≥1 h of troublesome dyskinesia. Clinician assessment of PD stage was used as the reference in this study. Clinical screening accuracy of the 5–2-1 criteria was assessed using area under the curve and multivariable logistic regression models. Incremental clinical, HCRU, and humanistic burden were assessed by known-group comparisons between 5 and 2-1-positive and negative patients.

Results

From the analytic sample (n = 4714), 33% of patients met the 5–2-1 screening criteria. Among physician-classified APD patients, 78.6% were 5–2-1 positive. Concordance between clinician judgment and 5–2-1 screening criteria was > 75%. 5–2-1-positive patients were nearly 7-times more likely to be classified as APD by physician judgment. Compared with the 5–2-1-negative group, 5–2-1-positive patients had significantly higher clinical, HCRU, and humanistic burden across all measures. In particular, 5–2-1-positive patients had 3.8-times more falls, 3.6-times higher annual hospitalization rate, and 3.4-times greater dissatisfaction with PD treatment. 5–2-1-positive patients also had significantly lower quality of life and worse caregiver burden.

Conclusions

5–2-1 criteria demonstrated potential as a screening tool for identifying people with APD with considerable clinical, humanistic, and HCRU burden. The 5–2-1 screening criteria is an objective and reliable tool that may aid the timely identification and treatment optimization of patients inadequately controlled on oral PD medications.
A qualitative exploratory interview study on birth companion support actions for women during childbirth
Authors: Wanyenze Eva Wodeya , Byamugisha Josaphat K. , Tumwesigye Nazarius Mboona , Muwanguzi Patience A. , Nalwadda Gorrette K.
Published: January 2022

Background

The World Health Organization recommends that women are supported continuously throughout labor by a companion of their choice. And, that companions have clearly designated roles and responsibilities to ensure that their presence is beneficial to both the woman and her health care providers. Presently, there is lack of strong evidence regarding specific support actions in relation to women’s needs of care. Thus, we aimed to explore birth companion support actions for women during childbirth.

Methods

This was an exploratory descriptive qualitative study conducted between August 2019 and December 2019; at a referral hospital in the Eastern part of Uganda. Ten women were purposively selected: those who were admitted in early labor, expecting a normal delivery, and had fulltime birth companion. Nonparticipant direct observation and in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Latent content analysis was used.

Results

Three themes were identified: “Support actions aiding a good childbirth experience”, “Support actions hindering coping with labor”, and “Women’s needs and expectations of care”. Support actions aiding a good experience described were; emotional presence, motivation, providing nourishments, messenger activities, body massage for pain relief, assisting in ambulation and coaching. Companion fearful behaviors and disrespectful care in form of unacknowledged needs and hostility from birth companions were reported to hinder coping. The women desired thoughtful communication, trust, for birth companions to anticipate their needs and recognize non perceptive phases of labor to allow them focus on themselves.

Conclusion

Birth companions from this study largely supported women emotionally, and attended to their physical needs. The greater part of support actions provided were esteemed by the women. Presence of birth companion will be of benefit when individual needs of women are put into consideration. Also, more guidance for birth companions is necessary to boost their role and mitigate shortcomings of their presence during childbirth.
Effect of prior antibiotic or chemotherapy treatment on immunotherapy response in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Nyein Andrew F. , Bari Shahla , Hogue Stephanie , Zhao Yayi , Maller Bradley , Sha Sybil , Gomez Maria F. , Rollison Dana E. , Robinson Lary A.
Published: January 2022

Background

Treatment outcomes of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have substantially improved with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), although only approximately 19% of patients respond to immunotherapy alone, increasing to 58% with the addition of chemotherapy. The gut microbiome has been recognized as a modulator of ICI response via its priming effect on the host immune response. Antibiotics as well as chemotherapy reduce gut microbial diversity, hence altering composition and function of the gut microbiome. Since the gut microbiome may modify ICI efficacy, we conducted a retrospective study evaluating the effects of prior antibiotic or chemotherapy use on NSCLC patient response to ICI.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 256 NSCLC patients treated between 2011–2017 at Moffitt Cancer Center with ICI ± chemotherapy, examining the associations between prior antibiotic or chemotherapy use, overall response rate and survival. Relative risk regression using a log-link with combinatorial expectation maximization algorithm was performed to analyze differences in response between patients treated with antibiotics or chemotherapy versus patients who didn’t receive antibiotics or chemotherapy. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to evaluate associations between risk factors and overall survival.

Results

Only 46 (18% of 256) patients used antibiotics prior to and/or during ICI treatment, and 146 (57%) had prior chemotherapy. Antibiotic users were 8% more likely to have worse overall response rate (RR:1.08; CI:0.93–1.26;p = 0.321), as well as a 35% worse overall survival (HR:1.35; CI:0.91–2.02;p = 0.145), although results were not statistically significant. However, prior use of chemotherapy was significantly associated with poor ICI response (RR:1.24; CI:1.05–1.47;p = 0.013) and worse overall survival (HR:1.47; CI:1.07–2.03;p = 0.018).

Conclusions

Patients receiving antibiotics prior to and/or during ICI therapy might experience worse treatment outcomes and survival than unexposed patients, although these associations were not statistically significant and hence warrant further prospective study. Prior chemotherapy significantly reduced ICI response and overall survival. Antibiotic or chemotherapy exposure may negatively impact ICI response, perhaps through disruption of the eubiotic gut microbiome.
Secondary traumatic stress in iranian midwives: stimuli factors, outcomes and risk management
Authors: Hajiesmaello Maryam , Hajian Sepideh , Riazi Hedyeh , Majd Hamid Alavi , Yavarian Roya
Published: January 2022

Background

The present qualitative study was conducted to explain the experiences of secondary traumatic stress (STS) and its related factors in midwives working in maternity wards.

Methods

Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 11 midwives working in the maternity wards of hospitals in Urmia, Iran, through in-depth interviews with open-ended questions. Data were analyzed using the conventional content analysis approach.

Results

The results of data analysis led to the extraction of three themes, seven main categories, and 18 subcategories. The first theme was “STS stimuli,” with the two categories of “Discriminatory approach to midwifery” and “The nature of the midwifery profession”. The second theme was “Traumatic outcomes”, which included the subcategories of “Psychological-emotional trauma”, “Physical trauma” and “Social trauma”. The third theme was “Risk management”, which had the two subcategories of “Reactive approach” and “Proactive approach”.

Conclusions

The results showed that, in addition to the traumatic nature of events that midwives experience during work as the secondhand victims, factors such as governance-organizational structure, unbalanced distribution of power, and poor supportive laws undermine their professional role and provide conditions conducive to STS. Therefore, avoiding traumatic situations and scientific and skill self-empowerment were the most important strategies adopted by the midwives in this study to prevent risky situations and cope with the consequences of STS. The participation of midwifery stakeholders in policy-making and adopting supportive legislation in redefining the position and role of midwives can play a major role in reducing STS and sustaining their role and position in maternal care.
Antisocial personality disorder and associated factors among incarcerated in prison in Dessie city correctional center, Dessie, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Seid Muhammed , Anbesaw Tamrat , Melke Shishigu , Beteshe Dawit , Mussa Haydar , Asmamaw Amare , Shegaw Maregu
Published: January 2022

Background

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) describes individuals who engage in repetitive aggressiveness, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and unlawful behavior. It has a broad impact on families, relationships, and social functioning, and also people with ASPD make heavy demands on the judicial system, social and mental health services. Even though ASPD is a common problem among incarcerated in prisons, it is not well studied in developing countries including Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of ASPD among incarcerated in prison in Dessie city correctional center.

Method

A cross-sectional study design was conducted among 320 incarcerated in prison at Dessie correctional center, Ethiopia. The study subjects were selected by using a simple random sampling technique and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th text revision (DSM-5) was used to measure ASPD using face-to-face interviews. Social support was assessed using the Oslo social support scale (Oslo-3). The collected data were checked for completeness and entered into Epi-data Version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regressions were done to identify factors related to antisocial personality disorder. In multivariable logistic regression variables with a p-value, less than 0.05 were considered significant and, adjusted OR (AOR) with 95% CI was used to present the strength of the association.

Results

The current study showed that the prevalence of ASPD was found to be 30.6% (95% CI:25.6,35.9). In a multivariable analysis, being single [AOR = 2.33; 95%CI (1.39,3.89)], monthly income of 1000–2000 ETB (Ethiopian Birr) [AOR = 2.12; 95%CI (1.163,3.45)], reconviction [AOR = 2.37; 95%CI (1.08,5.19)], and alcohol use [AOR = 2.00; 95% CI (1.16,3.45)] were discovered to be predictors of antisocial personality disorder.

Conclusion

This study revealed that nearly one-third of incarcerated in prison were found to have an anti-social personality disorder. Being single, 1000–2000 ETB income, reconviction, and alcohol users were variables that are independent predictors of ASPD. A screening and intervention program is required and further research should be needed.
SARS-CoV-2 sero-prevalence in the workforces of three large workplaces in South Wales: a sero-epidemiological study
Authors: Puchades Alice , Daniel Rhian , Geen John , Peden Jo , Lewis Heather , Nnoaham Kelechi
Published: January 2022

Background

Sero-prevalence studies quantify the proportion of a population that has antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, and can be used to identify the extent of the COVID-19 pandemic at a population level. The aim of the study was to assess the sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in the workforce at three workplaces: a food factory, non-food factory and call-centre.

Methods

Nine hundred ninety-three participants were recruited from three workplaces in South Wales. Participants completed a questionnaire and had a lateral flow point-of-care SARS-CoV-2 antibody test administered by a healthcare professional. The data were analysed using multivariable logistic regression, both using complete records only and following multiple imputation.

Results

The sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies ranged from 4% (n = 17/402) in the non-food factory to 10% (n = 28/281) in the food factory (OR 2.93; 95% CI 1.26 to 6.81). After taking account of confounding factors evidence of a difference remained (cOR comparing food factory to call centre (2.93; 95% CI 1.26 to 6.81) and non-food factory (3.99; 95% CI 1.97 to 8.08) respectively). The SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence also varied between roles within workplaces. People working in office based roles had a 2.23 times greater conditional odds (95% CI 1.02 to 4.87) of being positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies than those working on the factory floor.

Conclusion

The sero-prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies varied by workplace and work role. Whilst it is not possible to state whether these differences are due to COVID-19 transmission within the workplaces, it highlights the importance of considering COVID-19 transmission in a range of workplaces and work roles.
How health warning labels on wine and vodka bottles influence perceived risk, rejection, and acceptance
Authors: Staub Cornelia , Siegrist Michael
Published: January 2022

Background

Wine consumption has a particular place in the culture of many European countries, and beliefs that wine offers health benefits are widespread. High consumption of wine and other alcoholic beverages among many Europeans correlates with alcohol-related accidents and disease burdens. Health warning labels (HWLs) on alcohol containers have been increasingly recommended to deter consumers from drinking. However, findings on the impact of HWLs on consumers’ behavior have been mixed. Moreover, many European consumers have been found to reject the use of warning labels as a policy intervention, especially for wine, perhaps due to its cultural and economic importance.

Methods

An online study with a between-subjects design was conducted in Switzerland (N= 506) to assess whether HWLs can influence the perceived risk associated with drinking wine and vodka, a beverage insignificant to Swiss culture. Participants were presented an image of either a wine or vodka bottle with or without an HWL presenting a liver cancer warning statement. They were then asked to indicate their perceived risk of regularly consuming the depicted beverage. Acceptance and rejection of HWLs were also assessed.

Results

The perceived risk of vodka consumption exceeded the corresponding risk for wine but was unaffected by an HWL. Perceived health benefits were the main, negative predictor of perceived consumption risk. Participants mainly rejected HWLs due to their perceived effectiveness, perceived positive health effects, social norms, and individualistic values.

Conclusions

Perceived risk is an important determinant of drinking behavior, and our results suggest that HWLs may be unable to alter risk perceptions. Furthermore, a strong belief in the health benefits of alcohol consumption, particularly wine consumption, reduce risk perceptions and may be unaffected by HWLs.