bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Illuminating characteristic patterns of inflammatory dermatoses: A comprehensive dual‐imaging approach using Optical coherence tomography and Line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography
Authors: Deußing Maximilian , Ruini Cristel , Nutz Marie , Kerl‐French Karin , Hartmann Daniela , French Lars E. , Daxenberger Fabia , Sattler Elke C.
Published: July 2024

Background

Inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, atopic eczema, and contact dermatitis pose diagnostic challenges due to their diverse clinical presentations and the need for rapid and precise diagnostic assessment.

Objective

While recent studies described non‐invasive imaging devices such as Optical coherence tomography and Line‐field confocal OCT (LC‐OCT) as possible techniques to enable real‐time visualization of pathological features, a standardized analysis and validation has not yet been performed.

Methods

One hundred forty lesions from patients diagnosed with atopic eczema (57), psoriasis (50), and contact dermatitis (33) were imaged using OCT and LC‐OCT. Statistical analysis was employed to assess the significance of their characteristic morphologic features. Additionally, a decision tree algorithm based on Gini's coefficient calculations was developed to identify key attributes and criteria for accurately classifying the disease groups.

Results

Descriptive statistics revealed distinct morphologic features in eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis lesions. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated the significance of these features, providing a robust differentiation between the three inflammatory conditions. The decision tree algorithm further enhanced classification accuracy by identifying optimal attributes for disease discrimination, highlighting specific morphologic criteria as crucial for rapid diagnosis in the clinical setting.

Conclusion

The combined approach of descriptive statistics, multivariate logistic regression, and a decision tree algorithm provides a thorough understanding of the unique aspects associated with each inflammatory skin disease. This research offers a practical framework for lesion classification, enhancing the interpretability of imaging results for clinicians.
Widespread changes to the translational landscape in a maize microRNA biogenesis mutant
Authors: Yang Hailong , Thompson Beth
Published: July 2024

MicroRNAs are short, non‐coding RNAs that repress gene expression in both plants and animals and have diverse functions related to growth, development, and stress responses. The ribonuclease, DICER‐LIKE1 (DCL1) is required for two steps in plant miRNA biogenesis: cleavage of the primary miRNAs (pri‐miRNAs) to release a hairpin structure, called the precursor miRNA (pre‐miRNA) and cleavage of the pre‐miRNA to generate the miRNA/miRNA* duplex. The mature miRNA guides the RNA‐induced silencing complex to target RNAs with complementary sequences, resulting in translational repression and/or RNA cleavage of target mRNAs. However, the relative contribution of translational repression versus mRNA degradation by miRNAs remains unknown at the genome‐level in crops, especially in maize. The maize fuzzy tassel (fzt) mutant contains a hypomorphic mutation in DCL1 resulting in broad developmental defects. While most miRNAs are reduced in fzt, the levels of miRNA‐targeted mRNAs are not dramatically increased, suggesting that translational regulation by miRNAs may be common. To gain insight into the repression mechanism of plant miRNAs, we combined ribosome profiling and RNA‐sequencing to globally survey miRNA activities in maize. Our data indicate that translational repression contributes significantly to regulation of most miRNA targets and that approximately one‐third of miRNA targets are regulated primarily at the translational level. Surprisingly, ribosomes appear altered in fzt mutants suggesting that DCL1 may also have a role in ribosome biogenesis. Thus, DICER‐LIKE1 shapes the translational landscape in plants through both miRNA‐dependent and miRNA‐independent mechanisms.
A Re-examination of Housing Investment Performance in Nigeria
Authors: Ekemode Benjamin Gbolahan , Obayomi Abiola Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Arising from the lack of a holistic performance analysis of housing investment in Nigeria, this paper re-examines the return-risk performance of residential property assets by focusing on the tier 1 property markets of Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Data on the rental and capital values of residential property assets, comprising bungalows, blocks of flats, and detached houses, from 1999 to 2022 were obtained from estate surveying and valuation firms in the three locations. Mean return and standard deviation were employed to analyse return and risk profiles. Variations in return and risk profiles were further examined using a four-year sub-period analysis. The return-risk ratio was also employed to measure the attractiveness of the investment. The downside risk measure of the Sortino ratio was utilised to determine the risk-adjusted performance of the residential property assets. The results revealed that, on mean return and return-risk tradeoff bases, bungalow investments had superior performance compared with other property types across the geographic areas. When aggregated, residential property assets in Port Harcourt experienced superior return-risk performance relative to other locations. On sub-period analysis, the study established variations in the performance of the residential property assets across time periods and locations. On the risk-adjusted performance measure, it was found that bungalows in Lagos had the highest risk-adjusted performance. Detached house investments across the three locations were also found to exhibit low downside risk-adjusted performance. The study concluded that investors could gain high and attractive returns when making bungalow housing investment decisions with a huge potential for downside risk-proof returns. Moreover, investors could further expand this potential by concentrating more housing investment activities in Port Harcourt, as returns in this location are insulated from downside risk. However, investors should be cautious when investing in detached house assets across the three locations, as returns from this asset might be susceptible to downside risk.
Scrolling with Belief: Understanding the Millennial Generation’s Perception of Religious Knowledge on Social Media
Authors: Ab Halim Norliza
Published: June 2024

In an age marked by the widespread adoption of social media, the millennial generation’s perception of religious knowledge has emerged as a prominent research area. This inquiry delves into how millennials interpret religious values in the digital realm, with a particular focus on the role of social media in shaping and disseminating these beliefs. Scholars have sought to uncover the opportunities and challenges faced by Muslim scholars as they engage in dakwah and knowledge sharing through online platforms. Additionally, the study explores the essential role played by social media in facilitating Islamic learning, especially considering unprecedented global events such as the COVID-19 endemic. These investigations collectively illuminate the complex relationship between millennials, social media, and religious values interpretation. This study uses quantitative methods and data is analyzed using SPSS software. Out of the total 150 participants, 49 were actively involved in the survey process indicate that there is a positive but weak relationship between the daily duration of surfing YouTube content and participants’ perceptions of YouTube’s influence on their belief system. While a relationship exists, its relatively weak nature suggests that the influence of time spent on YouTube on participants’ beliefs may be influenced by additional factors not considered in this analysis. However, while these studies have enriched our understanding of this dynamic intersection, further research is needed. Future inquiries should delve into specific strategies for effective dakwah on diverse social media platforms and consider the evolving nature of social media usage among millennials.
Spectral constant rigidity of warped product metrics
Authors: Chai Xiaoxiang , Pyo Juncheol , Wan Xueyuan
Published: June 2024

A theorem of Llarull says that if a smooth metric on the ‐sphere is bounded below by the standard round metric and the scalar curvature of is bounded below by , then the metric must be the standard round metric. We prove a spectral Llarull theorem by replacing the bound by a lower bound on the first eigenvalue of an elliptic operator involving the Laplacian and the scalar curvature . We utilize two methods: spinor and spacetime harmonic function.
Developing palliative care skills in undergraduate allied health students using an interprofessional simulation-based learning experience
Authors: Reeves Nathan E , O'Shea Marie-Claire , Ash Kylie , Rego Joanna
Published: June 2024

Introduction: There is a growing need to prepare the health workforce to work collaboratively to meet the needs of people affected by life-limiting illness. Despite the call from industry for the inclusion of palliative care in undergraduate curriculum, there are few established methods to deliver this education for interprofessional student cohorts. Where clinical experience options are limited, the simulation-based learning experience (SBLE) offers a valuable experiential learning opportunity in the preparation of students to care for dying patients and their families. This research aims to examine the impact of SBLE on the level of allied health students' confidence in delivering palliative care.
Methods: A quasi-experimental, pre-test/post-test design was used with 11-point rating scales to measure the change in levels of self-reported confidence in knowledge, providing care, preparedness, management and assessment of need, and professional and ethical practice among allied health students who participated in either a face-to-face or an online palliative care SBLE.
Results: A total of 130 students participated in the SBLE in 2019 and 2020. A paired-sample t-test showed improvement post simulation, with mean differences ranging from 2.87 [95% CI 2.45–3.29] for knowledge to 3.2 [95% CI 2.79–3.60] for confidence. All categories were statistically significant (p < .05). Analysis of opened-ended questions indicated that after the simulation, students recognised the importance of a holistic focus and patient-centred care model.
Conclusions: The SBLE improved levels of student perceived confidence for the delivery of palliative care. Educators are encouraged to use SBLE to support the development of graduate capabilities in palliative care in allied health students.
“It would have been more constructive if she had given me points to improve on”: Student perceptions of patient feedback in dietetics
Authors: Gibson Simone , Dart Janeane , Bennett Christie , Anderson Amanda , Kent Fiona
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The voice of the patient has historically been peripheral in many health professional programs.
Methods: We investigated the merit of health professional students seeking patient feedback on the effectiveness of their clinical consultations as part of usual clinical placements. Dietetic students (n = 34) formally sought patient feedback after usual consultations (n = 48) then completed a reflective feedback tool. The experience of seeking and receiving patient feedback was then explored through student written narratives, facilitated with a focus group (n = 4). The student reflective forms, and recorded and transcribed focus group, were inductively analysed for themes.
Results: Despite the positive perception of the educational task, students did not value the overwhelmingly positive feedback they received from patients, preferring more critical clinical educator feedback.
Conclusion: The lack of value attributed to patient perspectives in the learning process raises questions about the success of the current teaching of patient-centred care despite the aspiration to legitimise the patient voice as central to health professional education.
Physiotherapy students’ perceptions of engagement with people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities during clinical placement
Authors: Martin Romany , Neish Calum , Su Yi-Jen , Mandrusiak Allison , Donovan Michael , Dunwoodie Ruth , Forbes Roma
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Student physiotherapists’ perceptions and experiences when working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities in Australia have not been explored. Understanding the perceptions of student physiotherapists in this context may inform educational experiences in the pursuit of culturally responsive care. Therefore, this paper explores the perceptions and experiences of student physiotherapists engaging with people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities during clinical placement.
Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews (n = 13) were conducted between March and September 2022 with final-year physiotherapy students from a single cohort at a single tertiary institution. Data were subject to reflexive thematic analysis.
Results: Four themes were generated from the data: 1) culture is a challenge for all stakeholders in health, 2) adapting care and communication, 3) modelling from clinical educators and 4) university preparation. Students understood that culture significantly impacts health and that healthcare must be responsive to culture to be appropriate for a person from a culturally and linguistically diverse community. Understanding and being responsive to the unique attitudes, values and beliefs of each individual underpinned student physiotherapists’ perception of how healthcare can be culturally responsive, and this was viewed as a pivotal principle of person-centred care.
Conclusion: Recommendations are made for stakeholders in physiotherapy clinical education to support opportunities for the development of cultural responsivity during physiotherapy training. University educators are encouraged to consider evaluating the volume and method in which cultural responsivity training is included in physiotherapy programs. Similarly, clinical educators are encouraged to integrate available frameworks for culturally safe practice that are appropriate to their setting of work.
Intrinsic motivation and perceived competence among junior doctors in managing ophthalmic disease
Authors: Charanjeet Singh Dutt Deepaysh Dutt , Razavi Hessom , Carr Sandra E
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Perceived competence among junior medical officers (JMOs) in managing ophthalmic disease remains low, and attempts to address this in ophthalmology education often neglect student motivation. This study aims to investigate whether JMOs’ perceived competence in managing ophthalmic patients could be predicted by their levels of motivation while studying ophthalmology as medical students.
Methods: Seventy-one JMOs completed a 7-point Likert scale 34-item questionnaire. Intrinsic motivation as a medical student was measured using the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI), which included autonomy, competence, relatedness, interest and pressure subscales. Perceived competence in managing ophthalmic disease was measured using the Perceived Competence Scale (PCS). Linear regression analysis was used to determine if intrinsic motivation during medical school predicted perceived competence as JMOs.
Results: Mean IMI scores and PCS scores were low, at 59 (out of 133) and 14 (out of 28), respectively. PCS scores were positively correlated with IMI scores (r = 0.61, p < 0.001), competence (r = 0.59, p < 0.001), relatedness (r = 0.49, p < 0001) and interest (r = 0.61, p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with pressure (r = -0.31, p = 0.009) and female gender (r = -0.30, p = 0.011). Linear regression analysis showed that IMI scores (β = 0.79, p < 0.001) significantly predicted PCS scores. Subscale analysis showed that there was significant predictive value in competence (β = 0.32, p = 0.009) and interest (β = 0.39, p = 0.035) for PCS scores.
Conclusion: This study shows that intrinsic motivation of medical students studying ophthalmology is significantly predictive of their perceived competence as JMOs managing ophthalmic disease. These results point to the importance of fostering medical student intrinsic motivation in an effort to improve perceived competence in JMOs.
Learning, teaching and assessment in health professional education and scholarship in the next 50 years
Authors: Balasooriya Chinthaka , Lyons Kayley , Tran Michael , Pather Nalini , Chur-Hansen Anna , Steketee Carole
Published: June 2024

This paper explores how health professional education and scholarship is likely to evolve over the next 50 years. Recognising the ambitious nature of this goal, we have adopted an approach of “looking back to predict the future”, drawing on past trends and lessons learnt to offer some predictions and recommendations. In doing so, we are mindful that recent advances in technology, especially related to generative artificial intelligence (AI), have added a further layer of complexity. The rapid rate of maturation of these technologies and the accompanying array of AI-based software solutions suggest that the educational landscape is likely to change dramatically—and continuously—over the foreseeable future. Within this context, it may seem premature to predict the future or make recommendations. However, in this paper we argue that urgent action is needed by educators to engage with the evolving landscape and to proactively develop models to harness the full potential of emerging technologies. Six themes are addressed, including: 1) the evolving role of educators and education providers, 2) innovative educational models and ethical frameworks, 3) future-focused competencies, 4) authentic assessment, 5) interprofessional education and 6) educational scholarship. This paper proposes a set of recommendations with the intention of stimulating critical discourse that can potentially lead to ongoing exploration of relevant issues.
Morphological and molecular data suggest the presence of cryptic diversity within Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) in Colombia

Authors: Ospina-Pérez Erika M. , Ossa-López Paula A. , Ramírez Chaves Héctor E. , Rivera-Páez Fredy A.
Published: June 2024

Of the 44 species within the genus Dermacentor (Acari: Ixodidae) worldwide, nine are found in the Neotropics and four are endemic to this region. In Colombia, located in the northwestern corner of South America, there are two species of the genus: Dermacentor imitans restricted to the trans-Andean Pacific region, and Dermacentor nitens widely distributed in the country. Elsewhere, D. nitens is found in both the Nearctic and Neotropics, from southern USA to northern Argentina. In the Neotropics, D. nitens is widely distributed including records in Caribbean islands. Molecular analyses of D. nitens collected in the Amazon region of Colombia have shown genetic differences with specimens from other localities of the country, although morphological differences have not been explored. We performed morphological and molecular comparisons of individuals from two natural regions of Colombia: the Orinoquia, and the Amazon. The morphological and morphometric results show that females and males are grouped in two morphotypes: morphotype I from the Orinoquia region, and morphotype II from Leticia in the Amazon region. The molecular analyses supported the morphological results and showed the formation of two well-differentiated sister clades within D. nitens, with divergences between both morphotypes of 3–4% and 5–6% for the 16S rRNA and COI genes, respectively. Species delimitation analyzes and the Poisson Tree Processes model tentatively suggest the presence of two species within the sequences associated with D. nitens in Colombia. The first represented by the sequences from the Orinoquia region evaluated here, together with sequences from other regions of Colombia and other Neotropical countries such as Brazil, Panama, and French Guiana. The second is represented by the sequences of individuals from Leticia, in the Amazon region of Colombia. The results highlight that D. nitens might represent a species complex, but further sampling, experimental crosses, and studies at the level of complete genomes should be performed to obtain additional evidence for species recognition.
Two new species of the genus Eotetranychus (Acari, Prostigmata, Tetranychidae) from Huaping National Nature Reserve, China

Authors: Liao Zehan , Qin Shiqing , Qin Fengping , Li Jun , Wang Guoquan
Published: June 2024

Two new species of the genus Eotetranychus are described from the Huaping National Nature Reserve, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Eotetranychus delphinus sp. nov. was collected from Schizophragma integrifolium Oliv. (Hydrangeaceae); E. enpeii sp. nov. was collected from Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers (Lauraceae). We also provide COI sequence data of these two new species: E. delphinus sp. nov. (GenBank accession numbers PP582994) and E. enpeii sp. nov. (GenBank accession numbers PP582995).
The mitochondrial genome sequence of Ceratozetella imperatoria (Aoki, 1963) (Acari: Ceratozetidae): Genome characterization and phylogenetic analysis

Authors: Liu Chao-Zhou , Tian Feng-hua , Liu Dong , Yang Mao-fa , Xiao Qun-ying , Liu Jian-feng
Published: June 2024

Oribatid mites play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, litter decomposition, and humus formation in the ecosystem. Here, an Illumina HiSeq platform was used to sequence the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of Ceratozetella imperatoria. The mt genome is a circular molecule of 14,229 bp (GenBank number: PP419053), and a total of 37 genes were described. The start codon in all 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) included ATT, ATA, TTG, and ATG, the stop codon of all 13 protein-coding genes was TAA, TAG, and single T. The AT skew and GC skew were 0.153 and 0.263 observed across the whole mt genome of Ceratozetella imperatoria. Besides the negative AT skew in PCGs, rRNA and CR, positive AT skew and GC skew were detected in the remaining components. A phylogenetic tree of 29 mite species was constructed using PCGs by the maximum likelihood method. Ceratozetoidea and Oripodoidea were closely related and become sister group relationships among them.
Ice sheet–free West Antarctica during peak early Oligocene glaciation
Authors: Klages J. P. , Hillenbrand C.-D. , Bohaty S. M. , Salzmann U. , Bickert T. , Lohmann G. , Knahl H. S. , Gierz P. , Niu L. , Titschack J. , Kuhn G. , Frederichs T. , Müller J. , Bauersachs T. , Larter R. D. , Hochmuth K. , Ehrmann W. , Nehrke G. , Rodríguez-Tovar F. J. , Schmiedl G. , Spezzaferri S. , Läufer A. , Lisker F. , van de Flierdt T. , Eisenhauer A. , Uenzelmann-Neben G. , Esper O. , Smith J. A. , Pälike H. , Spiegel C. , Dziadek R. , Ronge T. A. , Freudenthal T. , Gohl K.
Published: July 2024

One of Earth’s most fundamental climate shifts, the greenhouse-icehouse transition 34 million years ago, initiated Antarctic ice sheet buildup, influencing global climate until today. However, the extent of the ice sheet during the Early Oligocene Glacial Maximum (~33.7 to 33.2 million years ago) that immediately followed this transition—a critical knowledge gap for assessing feedbacks between permanently glaciated areas and early Cenozoic global climate reorganization—is uncertain. In this work, we present shallow-marine drilling data constraining earliest Oligocene environmental conditions on West Antarctica’s Pacific margin—a key region for understanding Antarctic ice sheet evolution. These data indicate a cool-temperate environment with mild ocean and air temperatures that prevented West Antarctic Ice Sheet formation. Climate–ice sheet modeling corroborates a highly asymmetric Antarctic ice sheet, thereby revealing its differential regional response to past and future climatic change.
Implications of right aortic arch prenatal diagnosis: the multicentric nationwide ARCADE cohort
Authors: Guillaumont Sophie , Vincenti Marie , Thomas Fanny , Huguet Helena , Picot Marie-Christine , Abassi Hamouda , Huby Anne-Cecile , Laux Daniela , Thomas-Chabaneix Julie , Cohen Laurence , Gavotto Arhur , Amedro Pascal
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aims to describe the various presentations of the prenatally diagnosed isolated right aortic arch (RAA), that is, without associated congenital heart defect and to evaluate the impact of prenatal diagnosis of isolated RAA in terms of postnatal outcome.

Method

In this multicentric retrospective study, from 2010 to 2019, all live births with a prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of isolated RAA were included, with a 1-year postnatal follow-up. The concordance between the different diagnostic steps (prenatal ultrasound, postnatal ultrasound and postnatal CT scan) was evaluated using Gwet’s AC1 coefficient.

Results

A total of 309 cases of prenatally diagnosed RAA were analysed, most of which had a left ductus arteriosus (83%). The concordance between prenatal and postnatal ultrasound diagnosis was excellent regarding the RAA type (AC1=0.97, 95% CI=(0.94 to 0.99)). The rare discrepancies mainly involved non-diagnosed or misdiagnosed double aortic arch (2%). CT scan was performed in 108 neonates (35%) and the concordance between prenatal ultrasound and postnatal CT scan was good regarding the RAA diagnosis (AC1=0.80, 95% CI=(0.69 to 0.90)) but poor regarding the distribution of brachiocephalic vessels (AC1=0.21, 95% CI=(0.06 to 0.36)). An associated genetic anomaly was sought for in half of the cases and identified in 4% of the cohort. During the first year of life, 50 (18%) infants presented with vascular ring symptoms and 24 (8%) underwent aortic arch surgery.

Conclusion

This multicentric nationwide cohort of 309 prenatally diagnosed isolated RAA demonstrated the reliability of prenatal screening, highlighted the rare cases of discrepancies between prenatal and postnatal diagnosis and underlined the value of CT scan to improve the postnatal follow-up.

Trial registration number

NCT04029064
.
Acute liver failure with a massive upper GI bleed meeting the criteria of MIS-C
Authors: Mishra Anshika , Gupta Jaya , Alam Areesha , Verma Sanjeev Kumar
Published: July 2024

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a known complication of COVID-19. There is still limited knowledge about this condition. Here, we report the case of a previously healthy toddler boy, who presented with acute liver failure and duodenal lesions resulting in severe haematemesis and haemorrhagic shock, requiring intensive care unit care. The patient had persistent transaminitis, a deranged coagulation profile, inflammatory markers were elevated, and laboratory tests were negative for common infectious hepatitis aetiologies as well as COVID-19 Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. His COVID-19 antibody was reactive. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a Forrest grade III duodenal ulcer. Looking into the constellation of symptoms and laboratory findings a confirmed diagnosis of acute viral hepatitis caused by MIS-C was made. Hence, he was given intravenous methylprednisolone along with intravenous immunoglobulins, after which he improved clinically and transaminitis resolved. The patient was discharged on clinical improvement and was doing fine on follow-up up to 6 months.
Extranodal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma presenting with extensive organ involvement
Authors: Kim Kailyn , Ziyeh Sharvina , Kim Phyllis
Published: June 2024

Extranodal involvement in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is defined as disease outside of the lymph nodes and occurs in up to one-third of patients, though multiorgan extranodal involvement is rare. Here, we describe a case of a patient presenting with widely metastatic lesions, including involvement of the lung, parotid gland, breast, pancreas, femur and multiple soft tissue masses, with initial concern for primary breast malignancy. Breast pathology and imaging were consistent with triple-expressor, double-hit stage IV high-grade B-cell lymphoma with extensive extranodal involvement. Extranodal involvement is a poor prognostic factor associated with high rates of treatment failure, and novel therapies targeting CD19 are currently being studied for relapsed and refractory DLBCL. Extranodal disease is a complex entity that can involve virtually any organ system and should be considered for new presentations of malignancy.
Neck lump evaluation and pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Tandan Nisha , Bashir Iqbal , Bhalla Ashu Seith , Verma Hitesh
Published: July 2024

Pseudoaneurysm is the formation of a sac due to damage in the continuity of the arterial wall. Iatrogenic carotid artery aneurysm is a rare, life-threatening complication following fine needle aspiration (FNA). We are presenting here a case of pseudoaneurysm following FNA with a literature review.
A review of authorship in herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) research conducted in low-income and middle-income countries between 2000 and 2020
Authors: Nahal Belinder , Owen Ela Mair , Jama Muna , Obasi Angela , Clarke Emily
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Equitable inclusion of low-income and middle-income country (LMIC) researchers and women in research authorship is a priority. A review of progress in addressing WHO-identified priorities provided an opportunity to examine the geographical and gender distribution of authorship in herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2) research.

Methods

Publications addressing five areas prioritised in a WHO workshop and published between 2000 and 2020 were identified. Data on author country, gender, authorship position and research funding source were collected by manuscript review and internet searches and analysed using IBM SPSS V.26.

Results

Of, 297 eligible papers identified, (n=294) had multiple authors. Of these, 241 (82%) included at least one LMIC author and 143 (49%) and 122 (41%) had LMIC first and last authors, respectively. LMICs funded studies were more than twice as likely to include an LMIC first or last author as high-income country-funded studies (relative risk 2.36, 95% CI 1.93 to 2.89). Respectively, 129 (46%) and 106 (36%) studies had female first and last authors. LMIC first and last authorship varied widely by HSV-2 research area and increased over time to 65% and 59% by 2015–2020.

Conclusion

Despite location of the research itself in LMIC settings, over the 20-year period, LMIC researchers held only a minority of first and last authorship positions. While LMIC representation in these positions improved over time, important inequities remain in key research areas and for women. Addressing current and historical power disparities in global health research, research infrastructure and how it is funded may be key addressing to addressing these issues.
20 years of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) research in low-income and middle-income countries: systematic evaluation of progress made in addressing WHO priorities for research in HSV-2/HIV interactions, HSV-2 control and mathematical modelling
Authors: Owen Ela Mair , Jama Muna , Nahal Belinder , Clarke Emily , Obasi Angela
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Reviewing and updating research priorities is essential to assess progress and to ensure optimal allocation of financial and human resources in research. In 2001, WHO held a research priority setting workshop for herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) research in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to describe progress between 2000 and 2020 in three of the five key research priority areas outlined in the workshop: HSV-2/HIV interactions, HSV-2 control measures and HSV-2 mathematical modelling. The remaining priorities are addressed in a companion paper.

Method

A systematic literature search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Global Health and Cochrane databases was carried out. Relevant primary research studies based in LMICs, written in English and published on 2000–2020 were included. Papers were screened by two independent reviewers, and suitable variables were selected for manual extraction from study texts. Data were organised into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed using IBM SPSS.

Results

In total, 3214 discrete papers were identified, of which 180 were eligible for inclusion (HSV-2/HIV interactions, 98; control measures, 58; mathematical modelling, 24). Most studies were conducted in East Africa. The majority of the 2001 WHO HSV-2 research priorities were addressed at least in part. Overall, despite several studies describing a strong relationship between HSV-2 and the acquisition and transmission of HIV, HSV-2 control repeatedly demonstrated little effect on HIV shedding or transmission. Further, although mathematical modelling predicted that vaccines could significantly impact HSV-2 indicators, HSV-2 vaccine studies were few. Studies of antiviral resistance were also few.

Conclusion

Since 2000, LMIC HSV-2 research addressing its control, HIV interactions and mathematical modelling has largely addressed the priorities set in the 2001 WHO HSV-2 workshop. However, key knowledge gaps remain in vaccine research, antiviral cost-effectiveness, antiviral resistance and specific geographical areas.
Assessment of the information provided by ChatGPT regarding exercise for patients with type 2 diabetes: a pilot study
Authors: Chung Seung Min , Chang Min Cheol
Published: July 2024

Objectives

We assessed the feasibility of ChatGPT for patients with type 2 diabetes seeking information about exercise.

Methods

In this pilot study, two physicians with expertise in diabetes care and rehabilitative treatment in Republic of Korea discussed and determined the 14 most asked questions on exercise for managing type 2 diabetes by patients in clinical practice. Each question was inputted into ChatGPT (V.4.0), and the answers from ChatGPT were assessed. The Likert scale was calculated for each category of validity (1–4), safety (1–4) and utility (1–4) based on position statements of the American Diabetes Association and American College of Sports Medicine.

Results

Regarding validity, 4 of 14 ChatGPT (28.6%) responses were scored as 3, indicating accurate but incomplete information. The other 10 responses (71.4%) were scored as 4, indicating complete accuracy with complete information. Safety and utility scored 4 (no danger and completely useful) for all 14 ChatGPT responses.

Conclusion

ChatGPT can be used as supplementary educational material for diabetic exercise. However, users should be aware that ChatGPT may provide incomplete answers to some questions on exercise for type 2 diabetes.
Impact of the first year of COVID-19 vaccination strategy in Brazil: an ecological study
Authors: Aguilar Soraida , Bastos Leonardo S L , Maçaira Paula , Baião Fernanda , Simões Paulo , Cerbino-Neto José , Ranzani Otavio , Hamacher Silvio , Bozza Fernando A
Published: July 2024

Objectives

No consensus exists about the best COVID-19 vaccination strategy to be adopted by low-income and middle-income countries. Brazil adopted an age-based calendar strategy to reduce mortality and the burden on the healthcare system. This study evaluates the impact of the vaccination campaign in Brazil on the progression of the reported COVID-19 deaths.

Methods

This ecological study analyses the dynamic of vaccination coverage and COVID-19 deaths in hospitalised adults (≥20 years) during the first year of the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out (January to December 2021) using nationwide data (DATASUS). We stratified the adult population into 20–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70+ years. The dynamic effect of the vaccination campaign on mortality rates was estimated by applying a negative binomial regression. The prevented and possible preventable deaths (observed deaths higher than expected) and potential years of life lost (PYLL) for each age group were obtained in a counterfactual analysis.

Results

During the first year of COVID-19 vaccination, 266 153 517 doses were administered, achieving 91% first-dose coverage. A total of 380 594 deaths were reported, 154 091 (40%) in 70+ years and 136 804 (36%) from 50-59 or 20-49 years. The mortality rates of 70+ decreased by 52% (rate ratio [95% CI]: 0.48 [0.43-0.53]) in 6 months, whereas rates for 20–49 were still increasing due to low coverage (52%). The vaccination roll-out strategy prevented 59 618 deaths, 53 088 (89%) from those aged 70+ years. However, the strategy did not prevent 54 797 deaths, 85% from those under 60 years, being 26 344 (45%) only in 20–49, corresponding to 1 589 271 PYLL, being 1 080 104 PYLL (68%) from those aged 20–49 years.

Conclusion

The adopted aged-based calendar vaccination strategy initially reduced mortality in the oldest but did not prevent the deaths of the youngest as effectively as compared with the older age group. Countries with a high burden, limited vaccine supply and young populations should consider other factors beyond the age to prioritise who should be vaccinated first.
Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis to prevent hypertensive disorders of pregnancy after in vitro fertilisation: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Collee Julie , Vervier Julie , Vandenput S , Chantraine F , Nisolle M , Henry L , Noel L
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Pregnancies resulting from in vitro fertilisation are associated with an increased risk of developing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, when compared with naturally conceived pregnancies.

Objective

The efficacy of aspirin prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of preeclampsia is well established in naturally conceived pregnancies identified as high risk for developing preeclampsia. However, the efficacy of aspirin to reduce the rate of preeclampsia for all pregnancies resulting from in vitro fertilisation remains uncertain, although in vitro fertilisation conception is a well-known risk factor for preeclampsia. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature regarding the use of low-dose aspirin to prevent hypertensive disorders of pregnancy after in vitro fertilisation.

Inclusion criteria

This review will identify all peer-reviewed published articles including pregnant women who underwent embryo transfer after in vitro fertilisation and were prescribed low-dose aspirin to reduce the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Methods

We have devised a comprehensive search strategy to systematically identify pertinent studies published from January 2000 until May 2024, within the Medline (PubMed interface), Embase and Scopus databases. The search strategy is based on the keywords ‘aspirin,’ ‘pregnancy-induced hypertension,’ and (‘in vitro fertilization’ OR ‘oocyte donation’ OR ‘embryo transfer’ OR ‘donor conception’). Two reviewers will independently screen the titles, abstracts and full-text articles to select the relevant articles, using the Covidence software.

Ethics and dissemination

No patients are involved in this study. This study aims to be published in a peer-reviewed journal and could be presented at a conference.
Bronchoscopy with and without needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy for peripheral lung nodule diagnosis: protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial (CLEVER trial)
Authors: van Heumen Saskia , Kramer Tess , Korevaar Daniël A , Gompelmann Daniela , Bal Christina , Hetzel Juergen , Jahn Kathleen , Poletti Venerino , Ravaglia Claudia , Sadoughi Ali , Stratakos Grigoris , Bakiri Katerina , Koukaki Evangelia , Anagnostopoulos Nektarios , Votruba Jiří , Šestáková Zuzana , Heuvelmans Marjolein A , Daniels Johannes M.A. , de Bruin Daniel M , Bonta Peter I , Annema Jouke T
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Despite many technological advances, the diagnostic yield of bronchoscopic peripheral lung nodule analysis remains limited due to frequent mispositioning. Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) enables real-time microscopic feedback on needle positioning, potentially improving the sampling location and diagnostic yield. Previous studies have defined and validated nCLE criteria for malignancy, airway and lung parenchyma. Larger studies demonstrating the effect of nCLE on diagnostic yield are lacking. We aim to investigate if nCLE-imaging integrated with conventional bronchoscopy results in a higher diagnostic yield compared with conventional bronchoscopy without nCLE.

Methods and analysis

This is a parallel-group randomised controlled trial. Recruitment is performed at pulmonology outpatient clinics in universities and general hospitals in six different European countries and one hospital in the USA. Consecutive patients with a for malignancy suspected peripheral lung nodule (10–30 mm) with an indication for diagnostic bronchoscopy will be screened, and 208 patients will be included. Web-based randomisation (1:1) between the two procedures will be performed. The primary outcome is diagnostic yield. Secondary outcomes include diagnostic sensitivity for malignancy, needle repositionings, procedure and fluoroscopy duration, and complications. Pathologists will be blinded to procedure type; patients and endoscopists will not.

Ethics and dissemination

Primary approval by the Ethics Committee of the Amsterdam University Medical Center. Dissemination involves publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Support

Financial and material support from Mauna Kea Technologies.

Trial registration number

NCT06079970
.
Community perspective and healthcare assessment in malaria endemic states of India: a cross-sectional study protocol
Authors: B M Shrinivasa , H C Vani , Singhal Richa , Singh Kuldeep , N Sujith Nath , Tripathi Praveen Kumar , Singh Piyush , Eapen Alex , Singh S P , Sinha D P , Malla Waseem Akram , Gupta Sanjeev Kumar , Yadav Chander Prakash , Singh Pallika , Aggarwal C S , P Choudhary Vinod , Sharma Rinku , Jain Tanu , Sharma Amit , Anvikar Anupkumar R , Goel Atul , Rahi Manju
Published: July 2024

Introduction

India’s contribution to the malaria burden was highest in South-East Asia Region in 2021, accounting for 79% of the estimated malaria cases and 83% of malaria-related deaths. Intensified Malaria Control Programme supported by Global Funds to Fight against AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria has deployed crucial interventions to reduce the overall burden of malaria in India. Evaluation of utilisation of malaria elimination interventions by the community and assessment of the healthcare system is underway in eleven high malaria endemic states in India. Health system preparedness for malaria elimination, logistics, and supply chain management of diagnostic kits and anti-malarial drugs in addition to the knowledge, attitude and practice of the healthcare workers is also being assessed.

Methods and analysis

The study is being undertaken in 11 malaria endemic states with a variable annual parasite incidence of malaria. In total, 47 districts (administrative unit of malaria control operations) covering 37 976 households are to be interviewed and assessed. We present here the protocol following which the study is being undertaken at the behest and approval of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in India.

Ethics and dissemination

No patients were involved in the study. Study findings will be shared with Institutional ethics board of National Institute for Malaria Research New Delhi (NIMR) in a timely, comprehensive, accurate, unbiased, unambiguous and transparent manner and to the National Vector-borne Disease (Malaria) Control Programme officers and the Community public who participated. Important findings will be communicated through community outreach meetings which are existing in the Health system. Results will be informed to study participants via local fieldwork supervised by District Malaria Officers. Also findings will be published in reputed journals based on Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) publication policy.

The ICMR-NIMR ethics committee approved the study via letter No. NIMR/ECM/2023/Feb/14 dated 24 April 2023 for version 5. All standard ethical practices will be followed.
The importance and benefits of defining full-time equivalence in the field of acute care surgery
Authors: Smith Randi N , Freedberg Mari , Bailey Joanelle , DeMoya Marc , Goldberg Amy , Staudenmayer Kristan
Published: July 2024

Acute care surgery (ACS) encompasses five major pillars - trauma, surgical critical care, emergency general surgery, elective general surgery and surgical rescue. The specialty continues to evolve and due to high-acuity, high-volume and around-the-clock care, the workload can be significant leading to workforce challenges such as rightsizing of staff, work-life imbalance, surgeon burnout and more. To address these challenges and ensure a stable workforce, ACS as a specialty must be deliberate and thoughtful about how it manages workload and workforce going forward. In this article, we address the importance, benefits and challenges of defining full-time equivalence for ACS as a method to establish a stable ACS workforce for the future.
Association of adiposity, serum vitamin D, and dietary quality with cardiometabolic risk factors in children aged 6–12 years: findings from SEANUTS II Malaysia
Authors: Chan Kai Sze , Farah Nor MF , Yeo Giin Shang , Teh Kuan Chiet , Lee Shoo Thien , Makbul Ika Aida Aprilini , Jamil Nor Aini , Sharif Razinah , Wong Jyh Eiin , Khouw Ilse , Poh Bee Koon ,   on behalf of the SEANUTS II Malaysia Study Group
Published: July 2024

Increased cardiometabolic risk among children is increasingly becoming a concern, with evidence indicating that obesity, diet, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) are associated with cardiometabolic risk. However, such studies among Malaysian children are scarce. Thus, this study explores the associations between adiposity, dietary quality, and 25(OH)D, with cardiometabolic risk factors among Malaysian children aged 4–12 years. Data of 479 children (mean age: 8.2 ± 2.3 years old, 52% females) from the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys (SEANUTS II) Malaysia, were included in this analysis. Adiposity (percentage of body fat) was assessed with bioelectrical impedance technique. Dietary quality was assessed using 24 h dietary recall and calculated as mean adequacy ratio. Vitamin D was assessed based on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). Measurements of cardiometabolic risk factors included waist circumference (WC), mean arterial pressure (MAP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglyceride, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and cardiometabolic risk cluster score (siMS) was calculated. Overall, higher adiposity was positively associated with all cardiometabolic risk factors (WC, ß = 0.907; 95% CI = 0.865, 0.948; MAP, ß = 0.225; 95% CI = 0.158, 0.292; HDL, ß = −0.011; 95% CI = −0.014, −0.009; Triglyceride, ß = 0.012; 95% CI = 0.009, 0.016; FBG, ß = 0.006; 95% CI = 0.002, 0.011) and siMS score (ß = 0.033; 95% CI = 0.029, 0.037). Serum 25(OH)D was inversely associated with siMS score (ß = −0.002; 95% CI = −0.004, −0.000008) and positively associated with HDL (ß = 0.002; 95% CI = 0.0001, 0.003). Our findings suggest that adiposity is a key determinant of adverse cardiometabolic risk factors in children, while serum 25(OH)D may be associated with overall cardiometabolic health. Interventions to reduce obesity are needed to mitigate the deleterious consequences of cardiometabolic dysregulation in children.