bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability of an exosuit in domestic and community environments
Authors: Basla Chiara , Hungerbühler Irina , Meyer Jan Thomas , Wolf Peter , Riener Robert , Xiloyannis Michele
Published: December 2022

Background

Exosuits have been shown to reduce metabolic cost of walking and to increase gait performance when used in clinical environment. Currently, these devices are transitioning to private use to facilitate independent training at home and in the community. However, their acceptance in unsupervised settings remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate end-user perspectives and the adoption of an exosuit in domestic and community settings.

Methods

We conducted a mixed-method study to investigate the usability and user experience of an exosuit, the Myosuit. We leveraged on a cohort of seven expert users, who had the device available at home for at least 28 days. Each participant completed two standardized questionnaires (SUS and QUEST) and one personalized, custom questionnaire. Furthermore, a semi-structured interview with each participant was recorded, verbatim transcribed and analyzed using descriptive thematic analysis. Data collected from device sensors quantified the frequency of use.

Results

A mean SUS score of 75.4 out of 100 was reported. Five participants scored above the threshold for above-average usability. Participants also expressed high satisfaction with most of the technical features in the QUEST with an average score of 4.1 (3.86–4.71) out of 5. Participants used the Myosuit mainly for walking outside and exercising at home. However, the frequency of use did not meet the recommendations for physical activity established by the World Health Organization. Five participants used the Myosuit approximately once per week. The two other participants integrated the device in their daily life and used the Myosuit to a greater extent (approx. five times per week). Major factors that prevented an extensive use of the technology were: (i) difficulties in donning that led to (ii) lack of independence and (iii) lack of motivation in exercising.

Conclusions

Although usable for various activities and well perceived, the adoption of the exosuit in domestic and community settings is yet limited. Use outside the clinic poses further challenges that should be considered when developing new wearable robots. Primarily, design should meet the users' claim for independence and increased adjustability of the device.
Evaluation of self-administered antigen testing in a college setting
Authors: Tinker Sarah C. , Prince-Guerra Jessica L. , Vermandere Kelly , Gettings Jenna , Drenzik Cherie , Voccio Gary , Parrott Tonia , Drobeniuc Jan , Hayden Tonya , Briggs Stephen , Heida Debbie , Thornburg Natalie , Barrios Lisa C. , Neatherlin John C. , Madni Sabrina , Rasberry Catherine N. , Swanson Kenneth D. , Tamin Azaibi , Harcourt Jennifer L. , Lester Sandra , Atherton Lydia , Honein Margaret A.
Published: December 2022

Background

The objective of our investigation was to better understand barriers to implementation of self-administered antigen screening testing for SARS-CoV-2 at institutions of higher education (IHE).

Methods

Using the Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test, 1347 IHE students and staff were asked to test twice weekly for seven weeks. We assessed seroconversion using baseline and endline serum specimens. Online surveys assessed acceptability.

Results

Participants reported 9971 self-administered antigen test results. Among participants who were not antibody positive at baseline, the median number of tests reported was eight. Among 324 participants seronegative at baseline, with endline antibody results and ≥ 1 self-administered antigen test results, there were five COVID-19 infections; only one was detected by self-administered antigen test (sensitivity = 20%). Acceptability of self-administered antigen tests was high.

Conclusions

Twice-weekly serial self-administered antigen testing in a low prevalence period had low utility in this investigation. Issues of testing fatigue will be important to address in future testing strategies.
Structure, functions, performance and gaps of event-based surveillance (EBS) in Sudan, 2021: a cross-sectional review
Authors: Malik Elfatih Mohamed , Abdullah Ahmad Izzoddeen , Mohammed Sabir Ali , Bashir Abdelgadir Ali , Ibrahim Rayyan , Abdalla Abdalla Mohammed , Osman Muntasir Mohamed , Mahmoud Tahani Amin , Alkhidir Mohamed Abdalhafiz , Elgorashi Suleiman Gamal , Alzain Mazza Abasher , Mohamed Omer Elbadri , Ismaiel Ismaiel Mohamed , Fadelmula Hatim Fadelalsyeed , Magboul Babiker Ahmed Ali , Habibi Muzhgan , Sadek Mahmoud , Aboushady Ahmed , Lane Christopher
Published: December 2022

Background

Event-based surveillance (EBS) is an essential component of Early Warning Alert and Response (EWAR) as per the International Health Regulations (IHR), 2005. EBS was established in Sudan in 2016 as a complementary system for Indicator-based surveillance (IBS). This review will provide an overview of the current EBS structure, functions and performance in Sudan and identify the gaps and ways forward. 

Methods

The review followed the WHO/EMRO guidelines and tools. Structured discussions, observation and review of records and guidelines were done at national and state levels. Community volunteers were interviewed through phone calls. Directors of Health Emergency and Epidemic Control, surveillance officers and focal persons for EBS at the state level were also interviewed. SPSS software was used to perform descriptive statistical analysis for quantitative data, while qualitative data was analysed manually using thematic analysis, paying particular attention to the health system level allowing for an exploration of how and why experiences differ across levels. Written and verbal consents were obtained from all participants as appropriate.

Results

Sudan has a functioning EBS; however, there is an underestimation of its contribution and importance at the national and states levels. The link between the national level and states is ad hoc or is driven by the need for reports. While community event-based surveillance (CEBS) is functioning, EBS from health facilities and from non-health sectors is not currently active. The integration of EBS into overall surveillance was not addressed, and the pathway from detection to action is not clear. The use of electronic databases and platforms is generally limited. Factors that would improve performance include training, presence of a trained focal person at state level, and regular follow-up from the national level. Factors such as staff turnover, income in relation to expenses and not having a high academic qualification (Diploma or MSc) were noticed as inhibiting factors.

Conclusion

The review recommended revisiting the surveillance structure at national and state levels to put EBS as an essential component and to update guidelines and standard operation procedures SOPs to foster the integration between EBS components and the overall surveillance system. The need for strengthening the link with states, capacity building and re-addressing the training modalities was highlighted.
A synthetic pregnenolone analog promotes microtubule dynamics and neural development
Authors: Kolas Viktoryia , Bandonil Jose Sandino A. , Wali Niaz , Hsia Kuo-Chiang , Shie Jiun-Jie , Chung Bon-chu
Published: December 2022

Background

Pregnenolone (P5) is a neurosteroid that promotes microtubule polymerization. It also reduces stress and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, promotes memory, as well as recovery from spinal cord injury. P5 is the first substance in the steroid-synthetic pathway; it can be further metabolized into other steroids. Therefore, it is difficult to differentiate the roles of P5 versus its metabolites in the brain. To alleviate this problem, we synthesized and screened a series of non-metabolizable P5 derivatives for their ability to polymerize microtubules similar to P5.

Results

We identified compound #43 (3-beta-pregnenolone acetate), which increased microtubule polymerization. We showed that compound #43 modified microtubule dynamics in live cells, increased neurite outgrowth and changed growth cone morphology in mouse cerebellar granule neuronal culture. Furthermore, compound #43 promoted the formation of stable microtubule tracks in zebrafish developing cerebellar axons.

Conclusions

We have developed compound #43, a nonmetabolized P5 analog, that recapitulates P5 functions in vivo and can be a new therapeutic candidate for the treatment of neurodevelopmental diseases.
Mechanosensitive piezo1 calcium channel activates connexin 43 hemichannels through PI3K signaling pathway in bone
Authors: Zeng Yan , Riquelme Manuel A. , Hua Rui , Zhang Jingruo , Acosta Francisca M. , Gu Sumin , Jiang Jean X.
Published: December 2022

Background

Mechanical loading promotes bone formation and osteocytes are a major mechanosensory cell in the bone. Both Piezo1 channels and connexin 43 hemichannels (Cx43 HCs) in osteocytes are important players in mechanotransduction and anabolic function by mechanical loading. However, the mechanism underlying mechanotransduction involving Piezo1 channels and Cx43 HCs in osteocytes and bone remains unknown.

Results

We showed that, like mechanical loading, Piezo1 specific agonist Yoda1 was able to increase intracellular Ca2+ signaling and activate Cx43 HCs, while Yoda1 antagonist Dooku1 inhibited Ca2+ and Cx43 HC activation induced by both mechanical loading and Yoda1. Moreover, the intracellular Ca2+ signal activated by Yoda1 was reduced by the inhibition of Cx43 HCs and pannexin1 (Panx1) channels, as well as ATP-P2X receptor signaling. Piezo1 and Cx43 HCs were co-localized on the osteocyte cell surface, and Yoda1-activated PI3K-Akt signaling regulated the opening of Cx43 HCs. Furthermore, Cx43 HCs opening by mechanical loading on tibias was ablated by inhibition of Piezo1 activation in vivo.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that upon mechanical stress, increased intracellular Ca2+ activated by Piezo1 regulates the opening of HCs through PI3K-Akt and opened Cx43 HCs, along with Panx1 channels, and ATP-P2X signaling sustain the intracellular Ca2+ signal, leading to bone anabolic function.
MicroRNA-378a-3p prevents initiation and growth of colorectal cancer by fine tuning polyamine synthesis
Authors: Liu Ningning , Zhang Tianpeng , Steer Clifford J. , Song Guisheng
Published: December 2022

Background

Inhibitors of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) are effective at preventing colorectal cancer (CRC). However, their high toxicity limits their clinical application. This study was aimed to explore the potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) as an inhibitor of ODC.

Methods

miRNA array was used to identify dysregulated miRNAs in CRC tumors of mice and patients. Azoxymethane (AOM)/Dextran Sodium Sulfate (DSS) were used to induce CRC in mice. miRNA function in carcinogenesis was determined by soft-agar colony formation, flow cytometry, and wound healing of CRC cells. Mini-circle was used to deliver miRNA into colons.

Results

MiRNA profiling identified miR-378a-3p (miR-378a) as the most reduced miRNA in CRC tumors of patients and mice treated with AOM/DSS. Pathway array analysis revealed that miR-378a impaired c-MYC and ODC1 pathways. Further studies identified FOXQ1 (forkhead box Q1) and ODC1 as two direct targets of miR-378a. FOXQ1 activated transcription of c-MYC, a transcription activator of ODC1. In addition to directly targeting ODC1, miR-378a also inhibited expression of ODC1 via the FOXQ1-cMYC axis, thereby inhibiting polyamine synthesis in human CRC cells. Phenotypically, by reducing polyamine synthesis, miR-378a induced apoptosis and inhibited proliferation and migration of CRC cells, while disrupting the association of miR-378a with FOXQ1 and ODC1 offset the effects of miR-378a, suggesting that FOXQ1 and ODC1 were required for miR-378a to inhibit CRC cell growth. MiR-378a treatment robustly prevented growth of HCC by inhibiting polyamine synthesis in AOM/DSS mice.

Conclusion

MiR-378a prevents CRC by inhibiting polyamine synthesis, suggesting its use as a novel ODC inhibitor against CRC.
In vivo genome-wide CRISPR screening identifies ZNF24 as a negative NF-κB modulator in lung cancer
Authors: Liu Lu , Lei Yuxi , Chen Wensheng , Zhou Qian , Zheng Zongyao , Zeng Guandi , Liu Wanting , Feng Pengju , Zhang Zhiyi , Yu Lei , Chen Liang
Published: December 2022

Systemic identification of tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) and elucidation of their signaling provide a new angle for understanding of tumorigenesis, which is important for developing successful treatment for lung cancer patients. In our current work, we conducted an in vivo screen for lung cancer TSGs through CRISPR/Cas9 mediated knockout of genes at genome-wide scale. We found that ZNF24 was a potent and clinically relevant TSG of lung cancer. Ectopic expression of ZNF24 arrested lung cancer cells in S phase. Mechanistically, ZNF24 bound to promoter region of P65 to negatively regulate its transcription and thereby the signaling activity of NF-κB pathway. This signaling cascade is clinically relevant. Importantly, we found that combinational inhibition of KRAS, NF-κB, and PD-1 effectively shrank autochthonous KrasG12D/ZNF24−/− lung cancers in transgenic mouse model. Our current work thus revealed an important role played by loss of function of ZNF24 in lung tumorigenesis and shed new light in precision medicine for a portion of lung cancer patients.
Experiences with teachers in childhood and their association with wellbeing in adulthood
Authors: Dittmann Christian , Forstmeier Simon
Published: December 2022

Background

Prior research mainly focussed on the impact of the teacher-student relationship on teachers emotions and wellbeing. Current data shows a relationship between the quality of the teacher-student relationship and children's mental health. Unfortunately, it has not yet been investigated whether meaningful experiences with teachers also have an impact on students' well-being and whether an effect can still be found in adulthood. This work examines the impact of meaningful experiences with teachers during childhood and adolescence on the well-being of adults.

Methods

The data in this study was collected by using a questionnaire. The current well-being of the participants was assessed with measures of life satisfaction, resilience, anxiety, stress, depressiveness, and self-esteem. Also, participants were asked to briefly write about their most meaningful experiences with teachers and rate them regarding their valence. These experiences were categorized into seven categories using a summarizing content analysis. We then conducted a statistical analysis with the data obtained.

Results

The results showed a highly significant correlation between the participants’ self-esteem and the valence ratings of their experiences. Furthermore, the experience category had a substantial effect on individual self-esteem. Overall, this study demonstrated that a relationship exists between the well-being of adults and their experiences with teachers during childhood and adolescence.

Conclusion

The results of this study call for a reflective, fair, authentic, and empathetic approach to students. Accordingly, teachers should be intensively trained to establish a relationship with their students that is characterized by appreciation and empathy.
The impact of an additional implant under the saddle of removable partial dentures in Kennedy Class II edentulism on oral health-related quality of life and oral function: a case series report
Authors: Nogawa Toshifumi , Takayama Yoshiyuki , Ishikawa Makoto , Yokoyama Atsuro
Published: December 2022

Background

Implant-supported removable partial dentures (ISRPDs) provide effective prosthodontic treatment for partially edentulous patients. ISRPDs offer greater patient satisfaction and better oral function compared with removable partial dentures (RPDs) by enhancing denture stability and support. However, few clinical studies have focused on RPD design in patients with mandibular Kennedy Class II edentulism. The aim of this case reports was to investigate the oral function, oral health-related quality of life, and satisfaction of four patients with unilateral distal-extension mandibular RPDs with the same design which were replaced with ISRPDs. In addition, we investigated how each patient’s evaluation varied with the change from RPD to ISRPD.

Case presentation

Four patients had unilateral distal-extension mandibular edentulism and were missing the first and second molars and the first and second premolars. They received one implant (4.0 mm in diameter, 8.0 mm in length; IAT EXA PLUS Bone level; Nippon Piston Ring Co. Ltd, Saitama, Japan) at the position equivalent to the first molar in the edentulous residual ridge perpendicular to the occlusal plane. Implant position was determined by surgical guide plate. RPDs were fabricated after the residual mucosal membrane had healed. The basic design of the RPD was as follows: a cobalt–chromium alloy cast metal framework denture with a lingual bar as the major connector, a double Akers clasp on the molars and an auxiliary retainer on the premolar as indirect retainers, and a wrought wire clasp and a cast cingulum rest (combination clasp) as direct retainers. Masticatory performance, occlusal force, oral health-related quality of life, and satisfaction were estimated at baseline, and at time points after insertion of the RPD and after insertion of the adapted ISRPD. Each evaluation item showed a tendency for improvement on insertion of the new RPD. Masticatory performance and satisfaction tended to be better after insertion of the ISRPD than after insertion of the RPD.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ISRPDs provided better patient satisfaction and masticatory performance than RPDs in patients with mandibular Kennedy Class II edentulism.

Trial registration UMIN Clinical Trials Registry and Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, UMIN000025283 and jRCTs012180003. Registered 19 February 2016 and 17 December 2018, https://www.umin.ac.jp/ and https://jrct.niph.go.jp/
Factors associated with utilization of modern postpartum family planing methods during the extended postpartum period among mothers who gave birth in the last 12 months at Injibara town, Northwest, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Andualem Getachew , Aklilu Almaz , Belay Getahun , Feyisa Wondu , Alemnew Fentahun
Published: December 2022

Background

The extended postpartum period is the first twelve months following childbirth and is an important entry point for family planning service providers to reduce unintended and too closely spaced pregnancies. A modern postpartum family planning service is one of the recommended public health interventions for reducing maternal and child morbidity and mortalities in sitting where maternal mortality is high, like in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study was aimed to assess factors associated with the utilization of modern family planning methods during the extended postpartum period among mothers who gave birth in the last 12 months at Injibara town, Northwest, Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed from March 1–15/2019 at Injibara town among 402 mothers. The data was collected by a simple random sampling technique and analyzed using the SPSS 23.0 version. Logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate the crude and adjusted odds ratio with a confidence interval of 95% and a P-value of < 0.05 in multivariable analysis considered statistically significant. Frequency tables and descriptive summaries were used to describe the study variables.

Results

The total sample size of this study was 402 and among them, 400 postpartum mothers participated in the study with a response rate of 99.5%. The utilization of modern family planning methods during the extended postpartum period among postpartum mothers was 58.5% [95% CI: 53.5- 63%]. Of these, 38.9% and 32.9% of the mothers were using injectables and implants respectively. Secondary and above educational level, having ≥ 3 antenatal care visits, resumption of menstruation, discussing with the partner on utilization of family planning method, being counseled on family planning method utilization during antenatal care visits and immediately after delivery, linkage of the mothers to a family planning unit during child immunization, and having good knowledge of family planning methods were associated with utilization of modern family planning methods during the extended postpartum period.

Conclusion

The utilization of modern family planning methods during the extended postpartum period among postpartum women was low compared to the world health organization recommendation. Socio-demographic, health care service uptakes, and reproductive characteristics were associated with the utilization of modern family planning methods during the extended postpartum period. We suggest emphasizing the education and counseling of women on the utilization of family planning during maternal and child health care service utilization. Mothers should be encouraged to start using modern family planning methods before the resumption of menses.
Diagnostic performance of quantitative Ga-SPECT/CT for patients with lower-limb osteomyelitis
Authors: Nishikawa Yoshito , Fukushima Yoshimitsu , Kirinoki Sonoko , Takagi Gen , Suda Masaya , Maki Toshio , Kumita Shinichiro
Published: December 2022

Background

Patients with lower-limb osteomyelitis (LLOM) may experience major adverse events, such as lower-leg amputations or death; therefore, early diagnosis and risk stratification are essential to improve outcomes. Ga-scintigraphy is commonly used for diagnosing inflammatory diseases. Although the diagnostic performance of planar and SPECT imaging for localized lesions is limited, SPECT/CT, which simultaneously acquires functional and anatomical definition, has resulted in significant improvements to diagnostic confidence. While quantitative Ga-SPECT/CT is an emerging approach to improve diagnoses, its diagnostic performance has not been sufficiently evaluated to date. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of Ga-SPECT/CT with quantitative analyses for patients with LLOM.

Methods

A total of 103 consecutive patients suspected of LLOM between April 2012 and October 2016 were analyzed. All patients underwent Ga-scintigraphy with SPECT/CT imaging. Findings were assessed visually, with higher than background accumulation considered positive, and quantitatively, using Ga-SPECT/CT images to calculate the lesion-to-background ratio (LBR), the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), and total lesion uptake (TLU). Diagnoses were confirmed using pathological examinations and patient outcomes, and diagnostic performances of planar, SPECT, and SPECT/CT images were compared. To evaluate prognostic performance, all patients were observed for 5 years for occurrences of major adverse events (MAE), defined as recurrence of osteomyelitis, major leg amputation, or fatal event. Multivariate Cox regression was performed to evaluate outcome factors.

Results

The overall diagnoses indicated that 54 out of 103 patients had LLOM. LBR, SUVmax, and TLU were significantly higher in patients with LLOM (12.23 vs. 1.00, 4.85 vs. 1.34, and 68.77 vs. 8.63, respectively;p < 0.001). Sensitivity and specificity were 91% and 96% for SPECT/CT with LBR, 89% and 94% for SPECT/CT with SUVmax, and 91% and 92% for SPECT/CT with TLU, respectively. MAE occurred in 23 of 54 LLOM patients (43%). TLU was found to be an independent prognostic factor (p = 0.047).

Conclusions

Ga-SPECT/CT using quantitative parameters, namely LBR and TLU, had better diagnostic and prognostic performances for patients with LLOM compared to conventional imaging. The results suggest that Ga-SPECT/CT is a good alternative for diagnosing LLOM in countries where FDG-PET/CT is not commonly available.
Two cases of childhood absence epilepsy who showed seizure disappearance after ethosuximide drug eruption
Authors: Nakamura Takuji , Uda Keiko , Matsuo Muneaki , Zaitsu Masafumi
Published: December 2022

Background

Recent studies suggest potential roles of immune response in the pathophysiology of epilepsy. Anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are known to have side effects of drug eruption caused by immune responses. A few reports in adults have demonstrated disappearance of seizures after an ASM drug eruption episode. In this paper, we described 2 cases of childhood absence epilepsy (CAE) who showed seizure disappearance after ethosuximide (ESM) drug eruption, suggesting the possibility that the epilepsy disappears due to immune responses to ASM.

Case presentation

Case 1 was an 8-year-old girl diagnosed with CAE. She was treated with valproate acid (VPA) initially, and then ESM was administered as an additional treatment. Her epileptic seizure disappeared 4 days after initiation of ESM. However, drug eruption appeared 1 week after the administration of ESM. Even after discontinuation of ESM administration, she maintains no seizure after the drug eruption. Case 2 was a 5-year-old boy diagnosed as CAE. He was treated with VPA initially, and ESM was administered additionally. Drug eruption appeared 1 month after the administration of ESM. Even after ESM was terminated, he maintained seizure freedom after the appearance of eruption.

Conclusions

Epileptic seizures may have been suppressed due to the immune responses caused by ASM eruption. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiologic effects of drug eruption on epilepsy through immune responses.
President's Page: A perspective from ‘the future’
Authors: Omar Samara
Published: December 2022

Why can't we seem to keep young geophysicists engaged? How many times have we circled back to this question when discussing and planning for “the future of geophysics” as a professional society or at a company level?
Reviews
Authors: Green William
Published: December 2022

Muography: Exploring Earth's Subsurface with Elementary Particles, by Laszlo Olah, Hiroyuki K. Tanaka, and Dezso Varga, 2022. Geology and Production of Helium and Associated Gases, by Steven A. Tedesco, 2022.
Not doomed: sociology and psychiatry, and ignorance and expertise
Authors: Ikkos George
Published: December 2022

This paper presents and responds to On the Heels of Ignorance, a sociological study which identifies five fundamental epistemological paradigm changes in American psychiatry in the service of its survival and details several tactics that have been employed to facilitate these professional reinventions. Issues raised in this presentation include the relationship between psychiatry, society and the state, and the nature and significance of psychiatric expertise. The dynamic of these relationships and the complexities of the required expertise create their own challenges for the advancement and professional accountability of the specialty. The conclusion suggests some future imperatives.
Social psychiatry lives!
Authors: Huxley Peter , Poole Rob
Published: December 2022

In this journal Ikkos examines the work of the American sociologist Owen Whooley, who argues that US psychiatry has gone through five paradigm shifts without defining the object of its own expertise. We look at the substance of Whooley's methods and assumptions and offer our observations on Ikkos's argument and conclusions.
Dissociation and its biological and clinical associations in functional neurological disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Campbell Malcolm C. , Smakowski Abigail , Rojas-Aguiluz Maya , Goldstein Laura H. , Cardeña Etzel , Nicholson Timothy R. , Reinders Antje A. T. S. , Pick Susannah
Published: December 2022

Background

Studies have reported elevated rates of dissociative symptoms and comorbid dissociative disorders in functional neurological disorder (FND); however, a comprehensive review is lacking.

Aims

To systematically review the severity of dissociative symptoms and prevalence of comorbid dissociative disorders in FND and summarise their biological and clinical associations.

Method

We searched Embase, PsycInfo and MEDLINE up to June 2021, combining terms for FND and dissociation. Studies were eligible if reporting dissociative symptom scores or rates of comorbid dissociative disorder in FND samples. Risk of bias was appraised using modified Newcastle–Ottawa criteria. The findings were synthesised qualitatively and dissociative symptom scores were included in a meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42020173263).

Results

Seventy-five studies were eligible (FNDn= 3940; controln= 3073), most commonly prospective case–control studies (k= 54). Dissociative disorders were frequently comorbid in FND. Psychoform dissociation was elevated in FND compared with healthy (g= 0.90, 95% CI 0.66–1.14,I2= 70%) and neurological controls (g= 0.56, 95% CI 0.19–0.92,I2= 67%). Greater psychoform dissociation was observed in FND samples with seizure symptoms versus healthy controls (g= 0.94, 95% CI 0.65–1.22,I2= 42%) and FND samples with motor symptoms (g= 0.40, 95% CI −0.18 to 1.00,I2= 54%). Somatoform dissociation was elevated in FND versus healthy controls (g= 1.80, 95% CI 1.25–2.34,I2= 75%). Dissociation in FND was associated with more severe functional symptoms, worse quality of life and brain alterations.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the potential clinical utility of assessing patients with FND for dissociative symptomatology. However, fewer studies investigated FND samples with motor symptoms and heterogeneity between studies and risk of bias were high. Rigorous investigation of the prevalence, features and mechanistic relevance of dissociation in FND is needed.
Use of Anticancer Therapies and Economic Burden Near the End of Life in Japan: Results From Claims Database
Authors: Kajimoto Yusuke , Honda Kazunori , Nozawa Kazuki , Mukai Mineko , Teng Lida , Igarashi Ataru
Published: December 2022

PURPOSE

In patients with cancer, aggressive treatment near the end of life (EOL) may decrease quality of life and increase medical costs. In this study, we examined the use of anticancer therapies near the EOL in Japan.

METHODS

We used a commercial database of health insurance claims in Japan, to examine patient data on cancer and death until August 2020. We assessed the proportion of patients using anticancer therapies within 14 days of death, associated factors, and medical costs from the payer's perspective.

RESULTS

The database documented 5,759 patients with cancer who died between December 2013 and August 2020. Among them, 4.8% of patients and 3.9% of age-adjusted patients received anticancer therapy within 14 days of death. Patients age < 60 years were associated with a high probability of receiving anticancer therapy near the EOL. The estimated annual anticancer therapy and related costs were Japanese yen 1,296 million (US dollars 12.6 million).

CONCLUSION

We found the percentage of patients receiving anticancer therapies within 14 days of death in Japan, its associated factors, and economic burden. Our findings can serve as a benchmark for optimizing EOL care.
Current views of community and hospital pharmacists on pharmaceutical care services in the United Arab Emirates: A mixed methodological study
Authors: Kharaba Zelal , Farhat Joviana , Mahboub Bassam S. , Buabeid Manal Ali , Alfoteih Yassen , Al-Worafi Yaser , Jaber Ammar , AlAhmad Mohammad
Published: December 2022

Background:The profession of pharmacy has evolved significantly in recent years in terms of professional service delivery. The aim of this study was to explore the current views of pharmacists in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on pharmaceutical care services and the nature of barriers encountered in practice using qualitative and quantitative assessment methods.

Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted among hospital and community pharmacists (n = 305) between March and May 2021, using qualitative and quantitative assessment methods. In the qualitative phase, 15 interviews were conducted to explore five main criteria: patient information, inadequate patient counseling, prescribing errors prevention and identifying drug-related problems, lack of participation in health awareness programs, and barriers to pharmaceutical care implementation. In the quantitative phase, 305 consenting pharmacists completed a questionnaire on seven criteria: demographic profile, pharmacist-physician interaction, patient counseling assessment, patient reports of adverse drug events, pharmacist participation in health awareness programs, perceptions of reducing prescribing errors and identifying drug-related problems, and barriers to appropriate pharmaceutical care implementation.

Results:The results of both the qualitative and quantitative phases of the study revealed that pharmacists' influence on practice in the UAE is limited due to many factors, mainly lack of time and patients' ignorance of the pharmacist's role in the medical field. The mean responses regarding pharmacists' approach to patient counseling and patients' knowledge of pharmacists' role in managing adverse drug reactions were 77.1% and 59.7%, respectively. Active participation in health awareness programs was 64.8%. The mean positive response of participants in reducing prescribing errors and recognizing drug-related problems was 9.2%. Pharmacists' age and number of years in practice were the most important factors influencing the pharmaceutical care services implementation.

Conclusion:The study has shown the need to shed light on the proper implementation of pharmaceutical care while maintaining a trusting relationship with physicians.
Outdoor air pollution impacts chronic obstructive pulmonary disease deaths in South Asia and China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shetty Bellipady Shyam Prasad , D’souza George , Padukudru Anand Mahesh , Prasad Meghna Rai
Published: December 2022

Background: Chronic obstructive lung disease is among leading causes of death globally. Exposure to outdoor pollution is an important cause for increased mortality and morbidity.

Objective: To present a systemic synthesis evidence regarding impact of outdoor pollution on COPD mortality in south asia and china.

Methods: A systematic search on studies with statistical power has been conducted from 1990 - June 30th 2021, in English electronic databases following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines from MEDLINE and PUBMED databases with terms: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease OR COPD OR Chronic Bronchitis OR Emphysema OR COPD Deaths OR Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease OR Airflow Obstruction OR Chronic Airflow Obstruction OR Airflow Obstruction, Chronic OR Bronchitis, Chronic AND Mortality OR Death OR Deceased AND Outdoor pollution, ambient pollution was conducted.

Results: Out of 1899 papers screened only 16 found eligible to be included in the study. Subjects with COPD exposed to higher levels of outdoor air pollution had a 49 % higher risk of death as compared to COPD subjects exposed to lower levels of outdoor air pollution. When taken individual pollutants into consideration, common air pollutants like PM10 had an OR of 1.06 at CI 95%, where as SO2 had OR of 0.66 at 95% CI , and NO2 with 1.01 OR at 95% CI. These values suggest that there is an effect of outdoor pollution on COPD but not to a significant level.

Conclusion: Despite heterogeneity across selected studies, exposure to outdoor pollutants  found to have risk of COPD mortality. Though it appears to have risk, COPD mortality was not significantly associated with outdoor pollutants. Controlling air pollution can substantially decrease the risk of COPD in South Asia and China. Further research including more prospective and longitudinal studies are urgently needed in COPD sub-groups.
MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF RISK CONTROL ARISING FROM THE FUNCTIONING OF COMPLEX TECHNICAL SYSTEMS FOR CRITICAL PURPOSES IN CONDITIONS OF UNCERTAINTY OF INFORMATION ABOUT THE VALUES OF PARAMETERS AND THE PHASE STATE
Authors: Kalashnikov Pavel V.
Published: December 2022

Introduction. The paper presents a description of the process of constructing a mathematical model for managing risks arising from the operation of complex technical unique systems for critical purposes under conditions of uncertainty of information about the parameters and phase state. The purpose of the study is to create an individual optimal strategy for managing risk events that occur during the operation of complex technical systems, which minimizes the cost of preventive work, as well as the amount of damage that may result from the occurrence of relevant events. The objectives of the study include the construction of a mathematical model for control risks arising from the operation of complex dynamic unique technical systems for critical purposes under conditions of interval uncertainty of information about the values of parameters and the phase state, since as well as an analysis of existing approaches to creating an individual forecast of changes in the state of the considered class of systems.

Materials and Methods. The article gives a comparative description of the effectiveness of the application of the mathematical apparatus of the theory of outliers of random processes and the method of individual forecasting in solving the problem of managing risks arising from the operation of complex unique technical systems for critical purposes under conditions of uncertainty. Based on the statistical methods of interval data, a mathematical model of risk management was created, taking into account possible errors in measuring the values of the parameters of the considered class of complex systems at all control windows during the operation period.

Results. The scientific novelty of the implemented approach lies in the use of interval data statistics, which allow the most correct consideration of possible errors associated with measuring the values of the characteristics of the studied technical systems at all stages of the control process.

Discussion and Conclusions. The mathematical model of risk control developed in the course of the study, arising from the operation of complex technical systems for critical purposes, makes it possible to make the optimal choice of risk management strategy when using objects of this class. Along with the above, an algorithm has been developed for predicting changes in the state of a technical system during the entire period of its operation based on the mathematical apparatus of statistics of interval data, which makes it possible to take into account in the calculations the errors that occur when measuring the values of the main parameters of the system under consideration at all stages of the control process.
DEVELOPMENT OF A TOOL FOR MAKING EFFECTIVE DECISIONS IN THE FIELD OF INVESTMENT
Authors: Krapivin Roman R. , Gareeva Gulnara A. , Gumerova Guzel R. , Basyrov Ruslan R.
Published: December 2022

The article discusses the issues of making effective decisions about investing in commercial accounts and currencies. In order to know how much these solutions will be beneficial in the long term, specialized information is needed: data on the dynamics of growth, decline in the value of accounts and currencies, analytical information. But there is no single source where this data will be accumulated, systematized and stored.

Purpose – create a tool for collecting and storing the parameters of investment accounts for their subsequent analysis in order to make an effective investment decision.

Method or methodology of work: the article discusses a method that can implement a tool for collecting specialized information of investment accounts, two tools can be used for this: Postgresql databases and Python programming language

Result: a tool has been developed that performs the function of collecting and storing information on investment accounts.

Scope of the results: the data obtained, which are stored in the database, should be used to identify high-yield accounts for subsequent investment.
THE PROBLEM OF CHOOSING THE OPTIMAL DESIGN OPTION FOR A COMPLEX SYSTEM UNDER CONDITIONS OF INTERVAL UNCERTAINTY
Authors: Kalashnikov Pavel V.
Published: December 2022

The paper describes the process of choosing the optimal design option for a complex technical system under conditions of interval uncertainty and incomplete information about the parameters and the phase state. Problems of this kind are extremely relevant at the initial stage of designing complex systems, when from a variety of possible options it is necessary to select those that are more consistent with the heterogeneous quality criteria and do not always meet the ambiguous preferences of the decision maker.

The aim of the study is to develop effective methods for comparing various design options for complex systems at the initial design stage under conditions of interval uncertainty. The objectives of the study include the construction of a mathematical model for the functioning of a complex system under conditions of uncertainty, as well as the analysis of the main methods for comparing alternatives with heterogeneous quality criteria.

Materials and Methods. The article provides a description of the functioning model of a complex technical system under conditions of uncertainty, and also describes the main methods for comparing various options for the system design at the initial stages of design in conditions of incompleteness and uncertainty of information, as well as ambiguity of the preferences of the decision maker.

Results. The scientific novelty of the implemented approach lies in the use of interval data statistics, which allow the most correct consideration of possible errors associated with measuring the values of the characteristics of the studied technical systems at all stages of the control process.

The scientific novelty of the implemented approach lies in the use of the interval analysis apparatus, which makes it possible to most correctly take into account the possible errors associated with measuring the values of the characteristics of the studied technical systems at all stages of the design process.

Discussion and Conclusions. The mathematical model of the process of functioning of a complex technical system under conditions of interval uncertainty developed in the course of the study allows selection of system design options at the initial stages of design, taking into account possible errors and inaccuracies arising from the deviation of values from the calculated nominal values.
Clifford Algebras, Spin Groups and Qubit Trees
Authors: Vlasov Alexander Yurievich
Published: December 2022

Representations of Spin groups and Clifford algebras derived from the structure of qubit trees are introduced in this work. For ternary trees the construction is more general and reduction to binary trees is formally defined by deletion of superfluous branches. The usual Jordan–Wigner construction also may be formally obtained in this approach by bringing the process up to trivial qubit chain (trunk). The methods can also be used for effective simulation of some quantum circuits corresponding to the binary tree structure. The modeling of more general qubit trees, as well as the relationship with the mapping used in the Bravyi–Kitaev transformation, are also briefly discussed.Quanta 2022; 11: 97–114.
The effects of Nordic Walking on health in adults: A systematic review
Authors: Liu Yangjun , Xie Wei , Ossowski Zbigniew
Published: December 2022

Objective: Nordic walking is a physical activity gaining more and more interest among adults. The aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review to determine the effects of Nordic walking on the physical and mental health of adults
Method: We identified Nordic walking related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the electronic databases PubMed, EBSCO and CNKI, however 19 from 47 studies were selected for evaluation and systematic review based on relevant data.
Results: Most of the study subjects were in the middle-aged and elderly clinical population, and three studies included non-clinical populations. The intervention was conducted most often three times a week for 8 weeks or more. The main effects of Nordic Walking were physical and psychological beniphytes, in particular the improvement of circulatory and respiratory and quality of life. All studies reported at least one beneficial effect of Nordic walking compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Nordic walking has some beneficial effects on the physical and mental health of adults with or without clinical symptoms.
La escena fragmentada: violencia y crueldad en H.P. (Hans Pozo)de Luis Barrales.
Authors: Marina Belmar Ruth , Rabanal Gatica Dámaso
Published: December 2022

H.P (Hans Pozo) de Luis Barrales es un texto dramático estrenado en el año 2007 por la Compañía de Teatro La Nacional bajo la dirección de Isidora Stevenson: un hombre es encontrado descuartizado en la ciudad de Santiago de Chile en el año 2006. El dramaturgo reescribe la historia e identifica y propone algunos fragmentos significativos del sistema cultural predominante. El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar el texto dramático de H.P. (Hans Pozo) desde la textualidad del drama haciendo énfasis sobre ámbitos como la sociedad heteronormativa, comportamientos humanos reprimidos, homosexualidad e imágenes de crueldad. Para ello, son fundamentales las discusiones teórico-críticas de Brossi, Foucault y Spargo, para abordar ámbitos de género, sexualidad y masculinidades, así como Antonin Artaud, para escenificar investigativamente la crueldad como dispositivo de la violencia. La obra de Barrales forja un puente con Artaud al presentarnos seres humanos, conflictos sociales, políticos y culturales que transitan en nuestra historia y habitan nuestro territorio. Violencia y crueldad operan como una tradición de escritura, pero también forman una óptica para mirar nuestro tiempo y sus prácticas de vulneración.
Tendencias de pareja y roles de género en el siglo XX en China según la obra de no ficción ‘‘The promise’’ (2019) de Xinran.
Authors: Mclean Melchor Lindsey
Published: December 2022

La situación sociocultural de la mujer china es una realidad en continuo cambio. Ni valores sociales confucianos (xiao孝: piedad filial; wulun五轮: cinco relaciones fundamentales; hexie和谐: armonía social) ni cambios en la política que dicen ‘liberar’ a las mujeres (Ley del Matrimonio de 1950; 1980; 2001) satisfacen al número creciente de mujeres chinas que elige la desfavorecida condición de ‘solterona’ (shengnü剩女). La escritora china contemporánea Xinran (1958--) explora la evolución de tan lian’ai谈恋爱 (cortejo; relaciones amorosas) en China en su última obra de no-ficción. The Promise (2019) narra varias historias de pareja desde el punto de vista de las mujeres de cuatro generaciones dentro de una misma familia china del siglo XX. El análisis parte de investigaciones sobre la mujer china (Botton Beja, 1995, 2017; Fincher, 2015), de teoría de literatura de no ficción (Cheney, 2001; Gutkind, 2012) y de la auto/biografía (Holmes, 2011; Stanley, 1993). Se concluye, en parte, que ciertos roles de género confucianos tradicionales, como san cong si de 三从四德 (‘Tres Obediencias y Cuatro Virtudes’), mantienen a las mujeres chinas en una posición desfavorable en la sociedad.