bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Mini-CEX combined with DOPS in standardized training of community outpatient residents
Authors: Wang Yuanmei , Chen Gang , Chen Jie , Jiang Fan
Published: July 2024

Objective

To explore the application effect of mini clinical evaluation exercise (Mini-CEX) combined with direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) in the standardized training of general practitioners in community clinics.

Methods

From June 2022 to June 2023,20 general practitioners who received standardized training for residents in the general outpatient department of Changqing Community Health Service Center of Wuhan Fourth Hospital were collected as the research objects. Mini-CEX combined with DOPS was used to evaluate the general practitioners at the time of admission, 2 weeks of training and 4 weeks of training, and the results were fed back.

Results

The scores of 20 general practitioners at 2 weeks and 4 weeks of training were compared with the scores at the time of admission, and the difference was statistically significant, p < 0.05.

Conclusion

Mini-CEX combined with DOPS can improve the teaching effect of standardized training of residents in community general clinics.
MAP3K8 is a potential therapeutic target in airway epithelial inflammation
Authors: Chiu Chih-Yung , Willis-Owen Saffron A. G. , Wong Kenny C.C. , Farrow Stuart N. , Cookson William O.C. , Moffatt Miriam F. , Zhang Youming
Published: July 2024

Background

We have previously discovered clusters of sequentially negative and positive modulators of acute inflammation during cytokine stimulation in epithelial cells and identified potential targets for therapy within these clusters. MAP3K8 is a druggable kinase that we found to be a hub of a principal interaction network. We describe here the results of MAP3K8 knockdown in the A549 lung cancer cell line, the BEAS-2B epithelial cell line and normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) cells following IL-1β stimulation. We analysed signalling transduction and global gene expression after IL-1β stimulation with and without MAP3K8 knockdown, quantifying levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and RANTES levels by qPCRs and/or by ELISAs. We also examined potential small molecule inhibitors for MAP3K8 in the same models.

Results

IL-1β significantly and consistently increased MAP3K8 expression after 2 h in A549, BEAS-2B and NHBE cells. Phosphorylation of MAP3K8 occurred at 20 min after IL-1β stimulation and MAP3K8 protein was degraded at 30 min. MAP3K8 knockdown significantly reduced IL-6, IL-8 levels after IL-1β stimulation and yielded a 10-fold enhancement of the anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (P-ERK1/2) and phosphorylation of SAPK/JNK (P-SAPK/JNK) decreased at 30 min after IL-1β stimulation with MAP3K8 knockdown. The combination of dexamethasone and MAP3K8 knockdown resulted in greater inhibition of phosphorylated ERK1/2 and SAPK/JNK. Nineteen genes including MMP1, MMP3, MMP10, ITGB8, LAMC2 and PLAT (P corrected < 0.01 respectively) demonstrated a distinct altered temporal response to IL-1β following suppression of MAP3K8. However, putative MAP3K8 inhibitors including Tpl2-1, Tpl2-2 and GSK2222867A only showed inhibition of IL-6 and IL-8 production at a high dose.

Conclusions

These results confirm that MAP3K8 is a key mediator of the early inflammatory response and that it is a potential target in inflammatory diseases. However, current tool compounds do not effectively inhibit its effects.
MMP-3 mediates copper oxide nanoparticle-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Yuanbao , Zhang Zhenyu , Mo Yiqun , Zhang Yue , Yuan Jiali , Zhang Qunwei
Published: July 2024

Background

The increasing production and usage of copper oxide nanoparticles (Nano-CuO) raise human health concerns. Previous studies have demonstrated that exposure to Nano-CuO could induce lung inflammation, injury, and fibrosis. However, the potential underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we proposed that matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) might play an important role in Nano-CuO-induced lung inflammation, injury, and fibrosis.

Results

Exposure of mice to Nano-CuO caused acute lung inflammation and injury in a dose-dependent manner, which was reflected by increased total cell number, neutrophil count, macrophage count, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, and CXCL1/KC level in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) obtained on day 3 post-exposure. The time-response study showed that Nano-CuO-induced acute lung inflammation and injury appeared as early as day 1 after exposure, peaked on day 3, and ameliorated over time. However, even on day 42 post-exposure, the LDH activity and macrophage count were still higher than those in the control group, suggesting that Nano-CuO caused chronic lung inflammation. The Nano-CuO-induced pulmonary inflammation was further confirmed by H&E staining of lung sections. Trichrome staining showed that Nano-CuO exposure caused pulmonary fibrosis from day 14 to day 42 post-exposure with an increasing tendency over time. Increased hydroxyproline content and expression levels of fibrosis-associated proteins in mouse lungs were also observed. In addition, Nano-CuO exposure induced MMP-3 overexpression and increased MMP-3 secretion in mouse lungs. Knocking down MMP-3 in mouse lungs significantly attenuated Nano-CuO-induced acute and chronic lung inflammation and fibrosis. Moreover, Nano-CuO exposure caused sustained production of cleaved osteopontin (OPN) in mouse lungs, which was also significantly decreased by knocking down MMP-3.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that short-term Nano-CuO exposure caused acute lung inflammation and injury, while long-term exposure induced chronic pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. Knocking down MMP-3 significantly ameliorated Nano-CuO-induced pulmonary inflammation, injury, and fibrosis, and also attenuated Nano-CuO-induced cleaved OPN level. Our study suggests that MMP-3 may play important roles in Nano-CuO-induced pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis via cleavage of OPN and may provide a further understanding of the mechanisms underlying Nano-CuO-induced pulmonary toxicity.

Graphical Abstract
Structural barriers to maternity care in Cameroon: a qualitative study
Authors: Harsono Alfonsus Adrian Hadikusumo , Bond Christyenne Lily , Enah Comfort , Ngong Mary Glory , Kyeng Rahel Mbah , Wallace Eric , Turan Janet M. , Szychowski Jeffery M. , Carlo Waldemar A. , Ambe Lionel Neba , Halle-Ekane Gregory , Muffih Pius Tih , Tita Alan Thevenet N. , Budhwani Henna
Published: July 2024

Background

The maternal mortality and perinatal mortality rate in Cameroon are among the highest worldwide. To improve these outcomes, we conducted a formative qualitative assessment to inform the adaptation of a mobile provider-to-provider intervention in Cameroon. We explored the complex interplay of structural barriers on maternity care in this low-resourced nation. The study aimed to identify structural barriers to maternal care during the early adaptation of the mobile Medical Information Service via Telephone (mMIST) program in Cameroon.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews and focus groups with 56 key stakeholders including previously and currently pregnant women, primary healthcare providers, administrators, and representatives of the Ministry of Health, recruited by purposive sampling. Thematic coding and analysis via modified grounded theory approach were conducted using NVivo12 software.

Results

Three main structural barriers emerged: (1) civil unrest (conflict between Ambazonian militant groups and the Cameroonian government in the Northwest), (2) limitations of the healthcare system, (3) inadequate physical infrastructure. Civil unrest impacted personal security, transportation safety, and disrupted medical transport system. Limitations of healthcare system involved critical shortages of skilled personnel and medical equipment, low commitment to evidence-based care, poor reputation, ineffective health system communication, incentives affecting care, and inadequate data collection. Inadequate physical infrastructure included frequent power outages and geographic distribution of healthcare facilities leading to logistical challenges.

Conclusion

Dynamic inter-relations among structural level factors create barriers to maternity care in Cameroon. Implementation of policies and intervention programs addressing structural barriers are necessary to facilitate timely access and utilization of high-quality maternity care.
Differential training benefits and motor unit remodeling in wrist force precision tasks following high and low load blood flow restriction exercises under volume-matched conditions
Authors: Lin Yen-Ting , Wong Chun-Man , Chen Yi-Ching , Chen Yueh , Hwang Ing-Shiou
Published: July 2024

Background

Blood flow restriction (BFR) resistance training has demonstrated efficacy in promoting strength gains beneficial for rehabilitation. Yet, the distinct functional advantages of BFR strength training using high-load and low-load protocols remain unclear. This study explored the behavioral and neurophysiological mechanisms that explain the differing effects after volume-matched high-load and low-load BFR training.

Methods

Twenty-eight healthy participants were randomly assigned to the high-load blood flow restriction (BFR-HL, n = 14) and low-load blood flow restriction (BFR-LL, n = 14) groups. They underwent 3 weeks of BFR training for isometric wrist extension at intensities of 25% or 75% of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) with matched training volume. Pre- and post-tests included MVC and trapezoidal force-tracking tests (0–75%–0% MVC) with multi-channel surface electromyography (EMG) from the extensor digitorum.

Results

The BFR-HL group exhibited a greater strength gain than that of the BFR-LL group after training (BFR_HL: 26.96 ± 16.33% vs. BFR_LL: 11.16 ± 15.34%)(p = 0.020). However, only the BFR-LL group showed improvement in force steadiness for tracking performance in the post-test (p = 0.004), indicated by a smaller normalized change in force fluctuations compared to the BFR-HL group (p = 0.048). After training, the BFR-HL group activated motor units (MUs) with higher recruitment thresholds (p < 0.001) and longer inter-spike intervals (p = 0.002), contrary to the BFR-LL group, who activated MUs with lower recruitment thresholds (p < 0.001) and shorter inter-spike intervals (p < 0.001) during force-tracking. The discharge variability (p < 0.003) and common drive index (p < 0.002) of MUs were consistently reduced with training for the two groups.

Conclusions

BFR-HL training led to greater strength gains, while BFR-LL training better improved force precision control due to activation of MUs with lower recruitment thresholds and higher discharge rates.
COVID-19 antibody responses in individuals with natural immunity and with vaccination-induced immunity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Qiuying , Jiao Lirui , Chen Qiushi , Bulstra Caroline A. , Geldsetzer Pascal , de Oliveira Tulio , Yang Juntao , Wang Chen , Bärnighausen Till , Chen Simiao
Published: July 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a large mortality and morbidity burden globally. For individuals, a strong immune response is the most effective means to block SARS-CoV-2 infection. To inform clinical case management of COVID-19, development of improved vaccines, and public health policy, a better understanding of antibody response dynamics and duration following SARS-CoV-2 infection and after vaccination is imperatively needed.

Methods

We systematically analyzed antibody response rates in naturally infected COVID-19 patients and vaccinated individuals. Specifically, we searched all published and pre-published literature between 1 December 2019 and 31 July 2023 using MeSH terms and “all field” terms comprising “COVID-19” or “SARS-CoV-2,” and “antibody response” or “immunity response” or “humoral immune.” We included experimental and observational studies that provided antibody positivity rates following natural COVID-19 infection or vaccination. A total of 44 studies reporting antibody positivity rate changes over time were included.

Results

The meta-analysis showed that within the first week after COVID-19 symptom onset/diagnosis or vaccination, antibody response rates in vaccinated individuals were lower than those in infected patients (p < 0.01), but no significant difference was observed from the second week to the sixth month. IgG, IgA, and IgM positivity rates increased during the first 3 weeks; thereafter, IgG positivity rates were maintained at a relatively high level, while the IgM seroconversion rate dropped.

Conclusions

Antibody production following vaccination might not occur as quickly or strongly as after natural infection, and the IgM antibody response was less persistent than the IgG response.
Protocol for a systematic review evaluating psychometric properties and gender-related measurement (non)invariance of self-report assessment tools for autism in adults
Authors: Uglik-Marucha Nora , Mason David , Belcher Hannah , Happé Francesca , Vitoratou Silia
Published: July 2024

Background

Given the recent evidence on gender differences in the presentation of autism, there is an increasing concern that current tools for autism do not adequately capture traits more often found in women. If tools for autism measure autistic traits differently based on gender alone, their validity may be compromised as they may not be measuring the same construct across genders. Measurement invariance investigations of autism measures can help assess the validity of autism constructs for different genders. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and critically appraise the psychometric properties of all self-report tools for autism in adults that meet two criteria: (a) they have been published since or included in the NICE (2014) recommendations, and (b) they have undergone gender-related measurement invariance investigations as part of their validation process.

Methods

A search of electronic databases will be conducted from 2014 until the present using MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO using predefined search terms to identify eligible studies. The search for grey literature will include sources such as OpenGrey, APA PsycEXTRA, and Scopus. Two reviewers will independently screen titles, abstracts, and full texts for eligibility. The references of included studies will be searched for additional records. The methodological quality of the studies will be evaluated using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist, while psychometric quality of findings will be assessed based on criteria for good measurement properties and ConPsy checklist. The quality of the total body of evidence will be appraised using the approach outlined in the modified GRADE guidelines.

Discussion

This systematic review will be among the first to assess the psychometric properties and gender-related measurement invariance of self-reported measures for autism in adults that were published since (or included in) NICE (2014) guidelines. The review will provide recommendations for the most suitable tool to assess for autism without gender bias. If no such measure is found, it will identify existing tools with promising psychometric properties that require further testing, or suggest developing a new measure.

Systematic review registration

The protocol has been registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The registration number is CRD42023429350.
Does small firm dynamics matter for occupation diversity and job quality? Evidence from Brazil
Authors: Bueno Alan , Cardoso Ben Hur Francisco , Hartmann Dominik , Ferraz Diogo
Published: July 2024

Recent studies have explored the role of firm dynamics and the connection to job reallocation. However, limited attention has been devoted to the role of micro and small firms in this process, particularly about the quality of the jobs generated. Therefore, this article aims to measure the impact of micro and small firm dynamics on occupation diversification in Brazil, with specific emphasis on job quality. The study used data from 558 microregions within the Brazilian industrial sector between 2003 and 2015. Panel data were applied to three econometric models: Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), Driscoll–Kraay (DK) and Instrumental Variable (IV) models for robustness analysis, including Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS), Limited Information Maximum Likelihood (LIML), and the Generalized Method of Moments with Continuously Updating Estimators (GMM-CUE). Our main finding reveals that the dynamics of micro and small firms positively impact occupation diversity in Brazil, leading to the creation of a wider range of job types. Furthermore, the frequency of change of firms from microenterprises to small businesses increases the occupation diversity in the Brazilian industrial sector. Our findings are significant in providing policy recommendations for developing countries to achieve a more diverse labor market.
A novel nanohydroxyapatite/polyamide 66 strut for reducing subsidence after one-level anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion: a finite-element study
Authors: Zhong Weiyang , Tang Ke , Quan Zhengxue
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to introduce a novel nanohydroxyapatite/polyamide 66(n-HA/PA66)n strut to improve biomechanical performance and reduce subsidence.

Methods

One validated intact and 2 ACCF-simulated C3–C7 cervical spine models were developed (old strut: Group A, new strut: Group B). In the ACCF models, C5 underwent corpectomy and was fixed by an anterior cervical plate. Screw angles were categorized as 1 (0 ) and 2 (45 ) and divided into 4 groups, A1, A2, B1 and B2, for each model. An axial force of 74 N and a moment couple of 1.0 Nm were imposed on the C3 vertebra. The range of motion (ROM) of each segment and the stress distribution on the screw–vertebra interface, strut, and strut–endplate interface were recorded and analysed.

Results

There was no significant difference in ROM between Group A and Group B during bending, extension and rotation under 74 N axial pressure. The stress concentration on the strut body in Group A was higher than that in Group B. The peak stress values at the screw–vertebral interface in Groups A1 and A2 were higher than those in Groups B1 and B2, except for during extension and lateral bending. Under axial pressure, the peak stress values at the strut body–endplate interface during bending, extension and rotation were lower in the A1 and A2 groups than in the B1 and B2 groups. The Group B model showed much higher graft stress than the Group A model.

Conclusions

Based on finite-element analysis, compared with the old strut, the novel strut showed better biomechanical performance at the screw–vertebra interface.
Targeted panel sequencing of pharmacogenes and oncodrivers in colorectal cancer patients reveals genes with prognostic significance
Authors: Heczko Lucie , Liška Václav , Vyčítal Ondřej , Fiala Ondřej , Šůsová Simona , Hlaváč Viktor , Souček Pavel
Published: July 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths and thus biomarkers allowing prediction of the resistance of patients to therapy and estimating their prognosis are needed. We designed a panel of 558 genes with pharmacogenomics records related to 5-fluorouracil resistance, genes important for sensitivity to other frequently used drugs, major oncodrivers, and actionable genes. We performed a target enrichment sequencing of DNA from tumors and matched blood samples of patients, and compared the results with patient prognosis stratified by systemic adjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

The median number of detected variants per tumor sample was 18.5 with 4 classified as having a high predicted functional effect and 14.5 moderate effect. APC, TP53, and KRAS were the most frequent mutated genes (64%, 59%, and 42% of mutated samples, respectively) followed by FAT4 (23%), FBXW7, and PIK3CA (16% for both). Patients with advanced stage III had more frequently APC, TP53, or KRAS mutations than those in stages I or II. KRAS mutation counts followed an increasing trend with grade (G1 < G2 < G3). The response to adjuvant therapy was worse in carriers of frameshift mutations in APC or 12D variant in KRAS, but none of these oncodrivers had prognostic value. Carriage of somatic mutations in any of the genes ABCA13, ANK2, COL7A1, NAV3, or UNC80 had prognostic relevance for worse overall survival (OS) of all patients. In contrast, mutations in FLG, GLI3, or UNC80 were prognostic in the same direction for patients untreated, and mutations in COL6A3, LRP1B, NAV3, RYR1, RYR3, TCHH, or TENM4 for patients treated with adjuvant therapy. The first association was externally validated. From all germline variants with high or moderate predicted functional effects (median 326 per patient), > 5% frequency and positive Manhattan plot based on 3-year RFS, rs72753407 in NFACS, rs34621071 in ERBB4, and rs2444274 in RIF1 were significantly associated with RFS, OS or both.

Conclusions

The present study identified several putative somatic and germline genetic events with prognostic potential for colorectal cancer that should undergo functional characterization.
The social status adversity and health in daily life moments study: ecological momentary assessment and ambulatory health assessments to examine meaning and mechanisms
Authors: Joseph Nataria T. , Peterson Laurel M.
Published: July 2024

Background

African Americans and those of lower socioeconomic status (SES) are at disproportionate risk for hypertension- and cardiovascular-disease-related mortality relative to their counterparts. Progress in reducing these disparities is slowed by the facts that these disparities are difficult to mitigate in older adults and early origins of these disparities are poorly understood. The Social Status Adversity and Health in Daily Life Moments Study aims to precisely understand the proximal cognitive-emotional mechanisms by which unique social exposures disproportionately impacting these populations influence blood pressure (BP) parameters early in the lifespan and determine which individuals are more at risk.

Methods

The study uses ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) monitoring to assess race- and SES-based factors as they manifest in daily life moments alongside simultaneously manifesting cognitive-emotional states and ABP. A sample of 270 healthy African Americans between the ages of 18 and 30 is being recruited to complete two periods of 2-day, 2-night hourly ABP monitoring alongside hourly EMA assessments of socioeconomic strain, unfair treatment, and neighborhood strain during the waking hours. ABP data will be used to calculate ecologically valid measures of BP reactivity, variability, and nocturnal dipping. Other measures include actigraphy equipment worn during the monitoring period and comprehensive assessment of behavioral and psychosocial risk and resilience factors. Multilevel and multiple linear regression analyses will examine which momentary social adversity exposures and cognitive-emotional reactions to these exposures are associated with worse BP parameters and for whom.

Discussion

This is the first time that this research question is approached in this manner. The Social Status Adversity and Health in Daily Life Moments Study will identify the cognitive-emotional mechanisms by which the most impactful race- and SES-based exposures influence multiple BP parameters in African American emerging adults. Further, it will identify those most at risk for the health impacts of these exposures. Achievement of these aims will shape the field’s ability to develop novel interventions targeting reduction of these exposures and modification of reactions to these exposures as well as attend to those subpopulations most needing intervention within the African American emerging adult population.
Anatomic and functional masseter muscle adaptation following orthognathic surgery—MRI analysis in 3 years of follow-up
Authors: Duarte Fernando , Silva João Neves , Ramos Carina , Hopper Colin
Published: July 2024

Background

Orthodontic and surgical technical advances in recent years have resulted in treatment opportunities for a whole range of craniofacial skeletal disorders either in the adolescent or adult patient. In the growing child, these can include myofunctional orthodontic appliance therapy or distraction osteogenesis procedures, while in the adult, the mainstay approach revolves around orthognathic surgery.

The literature agrees that for a change in craniofacial morphology to remain stable, the muscles acting upon the facial skeleton must be capable of adaptation in their structure and, therefore, their function. Failure of the muscles to adapt to the change in their length or orientation will place undesirable forces on the muscle attachments leading to potential instability of the skeleton. Adaptation can occur through various processes including those within the neuromuscular feedback mechanism, through changes within muscle structure or through altered muscle physiology, and through changes at the muscle/bone interface.

It is now accepted that because there is no single method of assessing masticatory function, several measures should be taken, and whenever possible, simultaneously.

Methods

This investigation was designed to apply several, newly developed and more sophisticated methods of measuring muscle structure and function to a situation where adaptation of muscle is pivotal to the success of a therapeutic approach. Patients attending the combined orthodontic/orthognathic surgery clinic at the Clitrofa – Centro Médico, Dentário e Cirúrgico, in Trofa, Portugal, were screened. Ten patients scheduled for a bimaxillary osteotomy involving a combination of maxillary Le Fort I impaction procedure coupled with a sagittal split advancement of the mandible were selected to form the study group.

The patients have MRI of the masseter muscle to evaluate the masseter muscle volume and fibre orientation changes. This exam was taken before surgery (T0), 6 to 12 months after surgery (T1), and 3 years after surgery (T2), by two independent observers, according to the protocol jointly developed between the Eastman Dental Institute – University of London and the MRI Centre - Department of Radiology at John Radcliffe Hospital – University of Oxford.

Results

Significant differences (p < 0.05) have been identified between Time 0 (pre-op) and Time 1 (6–12 months post-op) regarding the masseter area (mm2). The differences against Time 0 (pre-op) seem to disappear at Time 2 (3 years post-op).

Conclusions

MRI therefore seems to be a valid tool for measuring differences in the masseter muscle area and volume associated with high-severity occlusal deformities, although showing not to be as efficient in detecting the same differences in cases of low-severity occlusal deformities.
Descriptive analyses of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding rabies transmission and prevention in rural communities near wildlife reserves in Uganda: a One Health cross-sectional study
Authors: Atuheire Collins G. K. , Okwee-Acai James , Taremwa Martha , Terence Odoch , Ssali Sarah N. , Mwiine Frank N. , Kankya Clovice , Skjerve Eystein , Tryland Morten
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite urban (domestic dog) rabies cycles being the main target for rabies elimination by 2030, sylvatic (wildlife) rabies cycles can act as rabies spillovers especially in settlements contiguous to wildlife reserves. Rural communities next to wildlife reserves are characterized by unique socio-demographic and cultural practices including bat consumption, hunting for bushmeat, and non-vaccination of hunting dogs against rabies among others. This study aimed to compare the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) related to rabies transmission and prevention in the three districts of Uganda; (1) Nwoya, neighboring Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) in the north, (2) Kamwenge neighboring Kibaale National Park (KNP), Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) and Katonga Game Reserve (KGR) in the west, and (3) Bukedea, neighboring Pian Upe Game Reserve (PUGR) in the east of Uganda.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in settlements contiguous to these wildlife reserves. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, data were collected from 843 households owning dogs and livestock. Data were collected between the months of January and April 2023. Stratified univariate analyses by district were carried out using the Chi-square test for independence and Fisher’s exact test to compare KAPs in the three study districts.

Results

The median age of study participants was 42 years (Q1, Q3 = 30, 52) with males comprising the majority (67%, n = 562). The key findings revealed that participants from the Nwoya district in the north (MFNP) had little knowledge about rabies epidemiology (8.5%, n = 25), only 64% (n = 187) of them knew its signs and symptoms such as a rabid dog presenting with aggressiveness and showed negative attitudes towards prevention measures (15.3%, n = 45). Participants in the Kamwenge district-west (KNP, QENP, and KGR) had little knowledge and negative attitude towards wildlife–human interaction pertaining to rabies transmission and prevention especially those with no or primary level of education (20.9%, n = 27) while participants from Bukedea in the east (PUGR) had remarkedly poor practices towards rabies transmission, prevention, and control (37.8%, n = 114).

Conclusions

Rabies from sylvatic cycles remains a neglected public health threat in rural communities surrounding national parks and game reserves in Uganda. Our study findings highlight key gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to rabies transmission and prevention among such communities. Communication and action between veterinary services, wildlife authority, public health teams, social science and community leaders through available community platforms is key in addressing rabies among the sympatric at-risk communities in Uganda.
Effects of dietary zinc on the gut microbiome and resistome of the gestating cow and neonatal calf
Authors: Drake Mary Jane , Daniel Scott G. , Baker Linda D. , Indugu Nagaraju , Bittinger Kyle , Dickens Charlene , Zackular Joseph P. , Pitta Dipti , Redding Laurel E.
Published: July 2024

Zinc is an essential trace element required in the diet of all species. While the effects of zinc have been studied in growing calves, little is known about the effect of zinc on the microbiota of the gestating cow or her neonatal calf. Understanding factors that shape the gut health of neonatal animals and evaluating the effect of dietary supplements in adult gestating animals is important in promoting animal health and informing feeding practices. The aims of this study were to determine the effect of dietary zinc on the microbiota and resistome of the gestating cow and calf. Gestating cows received standard (40 ppm) or high (205 ppm) dietary zinc levels from dry off to calving. Fecal samples were collected from cows upon enrollment and at calving and from neonatal calves. Fecal samples underwent 16S rRNA sequencing and a subset also underwent shotgun metagenomic sequencing. The effect of zinc supplementation on the diversity and composition of the cow and calf microbiome and resistome was assessed. Alpha and beta diversity and composition of the microbiota were significantly altered over time but not by treatment in the cows, with alpha diversity decreasing and 14 genera found at significantly higher relative abundances at calving compared to enrollment. Levels of 27 antimicrobial resistance genes significantly increased over time. Only a small number of taxa were differentially expressed at calving in treatment and control groups, including Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Turicibacter, and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum. No effect of the dam’s treatment group was observed on the diversity or composition of the neonatal calf microbiota. The calf resistome, which was relatively rich and diverse compared to the cow, was also unaffected by the dam’s treatment group. The impact of high levels of dietary zinc thus appeared to be minimal, with no observed changes in alpha or beta diversity, and few changes in the relative abundance of a small number of taxa and antimicrobial resistance genes.
Feasibility of an implementation strategy for preventing falls in homecare services
Authors: Linnerud Siv , Kvæl Linda Aimée Hartford , Bjerk Maria , Taraldsen Kristin , Skelton Dawn A. , Brovold Therese
Published: July 2024

Background

Falls among older adults represent a major health hazard across the world. In 2022, the World Falls Guidelines was published, summarising research evidence and expert recommendations on how to prevent falls, but we need more knowledge on how the evidence can be successfully implemented into routine practice. In this study we used an implementation strategy co-created by healthcare providers, older adults who had fallen and researchers, to facilitate uptake of fall prevention recommendations. This current study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of this co-created implementation strategy in homecare services and provide information on the intervention and measurements for a full-scale cluster-randomized trial.

Methods

This study was a single-armed feasibility study with an embedded mixed-method approach completed in two city districts of Oslo, Norway, over a period of ten weeks. The co-created implementation strategy consists of a package for implementing national recommendations for preventing falls, empowering leaders to facilitate implementation, establish implementation teams, competence improvement and implementation support. City districts established implementation teams who were responsible for the implementation. Feasibility was assessed both qualitatively and quantitatively, using focus group interviews with implementation team members and individual interviews with leaders and staff members and the Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM). Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis and the Normalisation Process Theory.

Results

Qualitative data were collected from 19 participants: 12 implementation team members, 2 leaders and 5 staff members. 8 of the implementation team members responded to FIM. The analysis revealed four themes: 1) Fostering consensus through tailored implementation and discussions on fall prevention, 2) The importance of multi-level and interdisciplinary collaboration in fall prevention implementation, 3) Minimizing perceived time usage through utilization of existing areas for implementation activities, and 4) Reflective monitoring demonstrates the importance of facilitation and structure in the implementation strategy. For FIM, there were a high level of agreement related to how implementable, possible, doable, and easy to use the implementation strategy was.

Conclusions

Overall, we found the implementation strategy to be feasible to enhance uptake of fall prevention recommendations in the Norwegian homecare services. To succeed with the implementation, a dedicated implementation team should receive support through the implementation process, they should choose small implementation activities to enhance fall prevention competence and managers should possess implementation knowledge.

Trial registration

The trial is registered in the Open Science Registry: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/2JFHV Registered: January 11, 2023.
Implementation of partially tuned PD controllers of a multirotor UAV using deep deterministic policy gradient
Authors: Mosweu Emmanuel , Seokolo Tshepo Botho , Akano Theddeus Tochukwu , Motsamai Oboetswe Seraga
Published: July 2024

The present methodology employed in classical control systems is characterized by high costs, significant processing requirements, and inflexibility. In conventional practice, when the controller exhibits instability after being implemented on the hardware, it is often adjusted to achieve stability. However, this approach is not suitable for mass-produced systems like drones, which possess diverse manufacturing tolerances and delicate stability thresholds. The aim of this study is to design and evaluate a controller for a multirotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system that is capable of adapting its gains in accordance with changes in the system dynamics. The controller utilized in this research employs a Simulink-constructed model that has been taught by reinforcement learning techniques, specifically employing a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) network. The Simulink model of the UAV establishes the framework within which the agent engages in learning through interaction with its surroundings. The DDPG algorithm is an off-policy reinforcement learning technique that operates in continuous action spaces and does not require a model. The efficacy of the cascaded PD controllers and neural network tuner is evaluated. The results revealed that the controller exhibited stability during several flight phases, including take-off, hovering, path tracking, and landing manoeuvres.
SHBG, Free Testosterone, and Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Middle-aged African Men: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Seipone Ikanyeng D , Mendham Amy E , Storbeck Karl-Heinz , Oestlund Imken , Kufe Clement N , Chikowore Tinashe , Masemola Maphoko , Crowther Nigel J , Kengne Andre Pascal , Norris Shane , Olsson Tommy , Brown Todd , Micklesfield Lisa K , Goedecke Julia H
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To investigate longitudinal changes in SHBG and free testosterone (free T) levels among Black middle-aged African men, with and without coexistent HIV, and explore associations with incident dysglycaemia and measures of glucose metabolism.

Design

This longitudinal study enrolled 407 Black South African middle-aged men, comprising primarily 322 men living without HIV (MLWOH) and 85 men living with HIV (MLWH), with normal fasting glucose at enrollment. Follow-up assessments were conducted after 3.1 ± 1.5 years.

Methods

At baseline and follow-up, SHBG, albumin, and total testosterone were measured and free T was calculated. An oral glucose tolerance test at follow-up determined dysglycaemia (impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes) and glucose metabolism parameters including insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index), insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance), and beta(β)-cell function (disposition index). The primary analysis focussed on MLWOH, with a subanalysis on MLWH to explore whether associations in MLWOH differed from MLWH.

Results

The prevalence of dysglycaemia at follow-up was 17% (n = 55) in MLWOH. Higher baseline SHBG was associated with a lower risk of incident dysglycaemia (odds ratio 0.966; 95% confidence interval 0.945-0.987) and positively associated with insulin sensitivity (β = 0.124, P < .001) and β-cell function (β = 0.194, P = .001) at follow-up. Free T did not predict dysglycaemia. In MLWH, dysglycaemia prevalence at follow-up was 12% (n = 10). Neither baseline SHBG nor free T were associated with incident dysglycaemia and glucose metabolism parameters in MLWH.

Conclusion

SHBG levels predict the development of dysglycaemia in middle-aged African men but do not exhibit the same predictive value in MLWH.
Um cordel para Chico Science: projetos de casos de ensino no mestrado profissional
Authors: Brêtas de Menezes Aline
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Detalhar uma prática inovadora de ensino baseada na integração da aprendizagem colaborativa e aprendizagem baseada em projetos.
Escopo: O artigo relata o processo de implementação de metodologias ativas com projetos de casos de ensino no Mestrado Profissional em Administração Pública (MAP) da FGV EBAPE.
Originalidade: A prática inovadora de ensino alinha-se ao desenvolvimento de competências universais de nível de pós-graduação em Administração Pública requeridas pela NASPAA, Padrão Global em Educação em Serviço Público.
Relevância: O artigo oferece um guia de aplicação para os docentes, com potencial de impacto no interesse, no engajamento e no aprendizado dos estudantes de mestrado que desenvolvem casos de ensino para serem aplicados em cursos de graduação e pós-graduação. Isso promove um ciclo virtuoso de aprendizagem colaborativa.
Simulação de gestão: da concepção à aplicação e validação
Authors: Oliveira Sergio , L. Bruni Adriano
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Relatar o processo de desenvolvimento de uma ferramenta destinada ao ensino-aprendizagem ativo na modalidade de simulação objetivando o desenvolvimento de competências técnicas e comportamentais
Escopo: O artigo foca no processo de desenvolvimento da ferramenta e no processo de superação das dificuldades de desenvolvimento.
Originalidade: Não foram encontrados trabalhos que explorem o desenvolvimento de ferramentas de ensino-aprendizagem ativo na área de administração que mesclem meios digitais móveis e meios analógicos.
Relevância: O trabalho apresenta um roteiro de desenvolvimento de ferramentas de ensino-aprendizagem ativo centrado no usuário (professores e alunos).
Transformando a sala de aula: utilizando a inteligência artificial generativa no aprendizado ativo
Authors: Saraiva JR Francisco
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Explorar a integração de metodologias ativas e inteligência artificial (IA) generativa no ensino superior, destacando como essas abordagens podem melhorar o engajamento e o aprendizado dos alunos.
Escopo: O artigo abrange a aplicação de metodologias ativas, como aprendizagem baseada em problemas (ABP), aprendizagem colaborativa e sala de aula invertida, aliadas a ferramentas de IA generativa como o ChatGPT, em cursos de Marketing.
Originalidade: Combina a utilização de IA generativa com metodologias ativas, algo ainda pouco explorado na literatura acadêmica.
Relevância: Oferece um guia prático para docentes, demonstrando o potencial dessas tecnologias e metodologias para transformar a educação, aumentando o engajamento e o desempenho dos estudantes.
Hackathon on-line na aprendizagem baseada em projetos: um relato de experiência no desenvolvimento de protótipo de inteligência artificial
Authors: Mello Ricardo Coutinho , Coelho Neves Bárbara , Barreiro Claro Daniela , Do Carmo Machado Ivan
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: Apresentar os resultados da aplicação do modelo Hackathon online associado a um método de aprendizagem baseada em projeto em um componente curricular de extensão universitária.
Escopo: O relato identifica e discute as estratégias necessárias para garantir a colaboração interdisciplinar, o engajamento discente e a aplicação prática de saberes transversais em um ambiente virtual.
Originalidade: O caso aborda a conjunção de metodologias ativas no campo de ensino, e extensão integrando campos multidisciplinares no desenvolvimento de habilidades e competências interpessoais.
Relevância: A necessidade de repensar os métodos de ensino, pesquisa e extensão, destacando a importância da incorporação de abordagens inovadoras, como o modelo Hackathon online e aprendizagem baseada em projetos, para preparar os estudantes para os desafios e oportunidades da era digital.
Fish oil-containing edible films with active film incorporated with extract of Psidium guajava leaves: preparation and characterization of double-layered edible film
Authors: Sukoco Aji , Yamamoto Yukihiro , Harada Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Atsushi , Yoshino Tomoyuki
Published: July 2024

Background The utilization of zein and gum arabic has grown in an attempt to formulate wall materials based on protein–polysaccharide complexes. This mixture provides a versatile shelter for hydrophilic (guava leaf extract, GLE) or lipophilic (fish oil, FO) bioactive compounds from unwanted environmental factors, and it can be used as an edible film-forming polymer. This study was undertaken to characterize FO-containing edible films that were double-layered with a film containing GLE. Methods Modified zein and gum arabic solutions (MG complex) were mixed at a ratio of 1:1.5 (v/v), adjusted to pH 5, added with glycerol (20% of the complex) and FO (5% of the complex), and finally adjusted to pH 5. This was prepared as the bottom/lower layer. The upper/active layer was prepared by mixing MG complex, glycerol, and GLE (1, 3, and 5% w/v of the complex). Physical, mechanical, microstructural, thermal, microbiological, and oxidative measurements were also performed. Results The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in GLE were 15.81 mg GAE/g extract and 6.99 mg QE/g extract, respectively. The IC50 of the DPPH radical scavenging activity of GLE was 26.86 ppm with antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli of 9.83 and 12.55 mm. The total plate counts of films double-layered with a film containing GLE were retained below 3 log CFU/g during 28-day storage. The peroxide values of these films were dimmed for no more than 9.08 meq/kg sample on day 28 of storage. Thickness (872.00-971.67 μm), water vapor transmission rate (12.99-17.04 g/m2/day), tensile strength (1.56-2.02 kPa), elongation at break (61.53-75.41%), glass transition (52.74-57.50°C), melting peak (131.59-142.35°C), inhibition against B. subtilis (33.67-40.58 mm), and inhibition against E. coli (2.05-9.04 mm) were obtained by double-layer films. Conclusions GLE can be successfully incorporated into the active layer of a double-layer film to improve its characteristics while significantly slowing down the microbial contamination and oxidation rate.
Digital sensors (non-invasive) for early detection of risk factors for recurrent stroke: A systematic review
Authors: Kariasa I Made , Nurachmah Elly , Setyowati Setyowati , Koestoer Raldi Artono
Published: July 2024

Background Improving awareness in patients with stroke to detect risk factors of recurrent stroke has recently become a major challenge for all health professionals in preventing recurrence among stroke survivors. Utilization of advanced technology, such as digital sensors, (a non-invasive device) is among the breakthroughs in detecting the risk of disease and promotes more effective prevention and improves quality of care. This study aims to conduct a systematic review on studies addressing early detection of the risk factors of recurrent stroke through the utilization of digital sensors. Methods A literature search was carried out on articles published between 2011 - 2018 on EBSCO, Elsevier, Science Direct, ProQuest, Springer link, PubMed, MEDLINE, PLoS, and the Journal of Community Nursing. The search identified quantitative research studies on the utilization of digital sensors in cases of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and cardiac disorders that contributed to stroke recurrence. Each study’s bias was assessed using Review Manager 5. Results Ten articles were analyzed through data extraction. Robust assessment of independent risk factors which provoke recurrent stroke such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and heart diseases could lead to conservation of health resources. It is very important to monitor these factors. With the development of technology, the potential use of non-invasive monitoring for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hypercholesterolemia, and heart diseases as risk factors for recurrent stroke events is considered effective because it is easy, simple, low cost, sensitive, and does not cause additional suffering for patients. Conclusion A practical and non-invasive method for early detection and monitoring of risk factors may reduce the risk of stroke recurrence among stroke survivors.