bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventing smoking initiation in adolescents living in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions: Study protocol of the KickAsh!-intervention
Authors: Demeester Babette , Verloigne Maïté , Willems Sara , Leta Kenji , Lauwerier Emelien
Published: March 2024

Aims:

Adolescents living in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions are confronted with tobacco-related health disparities. As school-based interventions appear to be less effective among these youngsters, other approaches are necessary. One promising avenue is youth social work settings that offer sport and recreational activities (SR-settings). SR-settings have been examined as a levering context for health promotion, but evidence regarding smoking prevention is currently lacking.

Methods:

This study describes the protocol of a non-randomised cluster controlled trial evaluating a smoking prevention intervention for adolescents. At least 24 SR-settings are needed for the intervention and control group. A mixed-method design will be used. Quantitative measures will be used to assess effectiveness, involving validated questionnaires on smoking initiation behaviour and influencing factors (i.e. attitude, self-efficacy, social influence and risk perception). In addition, feasibility will be assessed with regard to intervention fidelity, dose and reach. Data will be collected at baseline, three and nine months following the intervention. To gain deeper understanding on the impact and underlying processes of the intervention, we will conduct qualitative interviews with users (adolescents) and implementers (youth workers within the SR-settings) of the intervention.

Conclusions:

Conducting this trial will offer novel insights into the effectiveness of a smoking prevention intervention designed for adolescents living in vulnerable socioeconomic conditions. A mixed-method design will enable to measure impact, implementation and underlying processes of the intervention. Overall, this design will enhance our understanding on the suitability of SR-settings as contexts for smoking prevention initiatives targeting hard-to-reach youth. This trial is registered on Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05920772.
The Infopolitics of feeling: How race and disability are configured in Emotion Recognition Technology
Authors: McInerney Kerry , Keyes Os
Published: March 2024

In this article, we argue that facial emotion recognition technology (facial ERT) reproduces historical forms of pseudoscience based on the concept of quantifiable and unequally distributed emotional capacity. Drawing on Kyla Schuller’s Biopolitics of Feeling and Colin Koopman’s theory of infopower, we put forward the term ‘the infopolitics of feeling’ to describe how facial ERT encodes culturally ‘correct’ or normative forms of emotional expression that have historically been used to define and delineate what it means to be human. To make this argument, we provide a close reading of Girl Decoded, the autobiography of Rana el Kaliouby, the founder and former CEO of the leading Emotion artificial intelligence (AI) firm Affectiva. Girl Decoded, we argue pits el Kaliouby herself – portrayed as the empathetic, liberal, emotionally expressive and ideal ‘feeling’ subject – against two non-normative figures: the unfeeling autist and the inscrutable Oriental who must be ‘cured’ through Affectiva’s facial ERT.
Preparation and properties of montmorillonite incorporated natural rubber/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber blends
Authors: Badr Magd M , Abdel-Raouf Manar E , Abdelaziz Alaa IE , Hasan Abdulrahiem MA , Abdeen Zizi I
Published: March 2024

This article aims to evaluate and compare two types of organic surface-modified-nanoclay of octadecylamine-modified-bentonite-nanoclay (ODA-BNC) and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-octadecylamine-modified-nanomontmorillonite (APS-ODA-MMT). Each type of nanoclay is combined with silica as a bi-filler for natural rubber (NR)/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) in a 50/50 blend ratio for possible vulcanized rubber nanocomposite application. The total filler content is 50 phr while nanoclay filler content ranges from 0 to 20 phr, keeping the other ingredients ratio fixed. The prepared composites are characterized by the Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) and their mechanical and thermal properties are thoroughly investigated. The data reveal that the fillers added to the rubber can improve its surface properties according to their type and amount as confirmed by the Atomic force microscope (AFM), and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) investigation. The surface of rubber containing APS-ODA-MMT displayed higher height (251) and roughness surface (94.11), than those (69.8) and (45.62) respectively, containing ODA-BNC. Moreover, the acid resistance of the prepared composites is verified and indicated that increasing the nanoclay ratio (20%) enhances the acid resistance by reducing the surface distortion while keeping the surface morphology. The mechanical properties and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) measurements showed that the rubber containing ODA-BNC has higher values of stress (2.2), elongation (975), and thermal stability (470, 505, 520°C) than those (1.75), (650), and (440, 460, 470°C) respectively, containing the APS-ODA-MMT. Moreover, the durability investigation of the vulcanized rubber via the AFM found the modified composites can be used in harsh environments as a covering layer in petrochemical networks or chemical factories.
Intelligent optimization of non-rigidly supported stationary shoulder friction stir welding parameters
Authors: Jin Taotao , Miao Pei , Cui Xiuhui , Wang Jian
Published: March 2024

During the online welding of railway aluminum alloy trucks using fixed shoulder stirring friction welding technology, defects such as flying edges, cracks, and tunnels may occasionally occur due to poor coordination of the welding process parameters. This inconsistency can compromise the success rate of the welding. To enhance the quality and efficiency of the welding repairs, an optimization of the welding process parameters of the developed equipment was undertaken. An intelligent prediction model for welding parameters was established based on the BSO-BP neural network. The model was trained with 17 sets of authentic welding data, and its accuracy was validated through a comparison of predictive outputs with actual welding outcomes. The BSO-BP neural network demonstrated a maximum error of 1.85% and a relative error of 1.27%, showing a marked improvement over traditional BP neural network predictions. Utilize the optimized welding process parameters obtained from a trained predictive model to conduct welding experiments under actual working conditions. During the experiment, the deformation of the test plates was minimal. The resulting welds were smooth, free of defects such as flash and grooves, and the overall welding quality was good. The tensile strength of the welds, at 262.95 MPa, was close to the predicted results and reached 78.49% of the base material’s tensile strength. In the microstructure of the weld, sporadically distributed dimples of varying sizes can be observed, indicating the presence of second phase particles which contribute to enhancing the tensile strength of the weld, thereby meeting the strength requirements of the aluminum alloy car body. The parameter optimization method used has certain reference value and can provide guidance for similar research.
Asymmetric integral barrier Lyapunov function-based three-dimensional integrated guidance and control design with field-of-view constraint and input saturation
Authors: Feng Dan , Hou Mingshan , Wang Wencong , Wang Dongyue
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes an adaptive integrated guidance control (IGC) scheme for the flight vehicle intercepting the maneuvering target with asymmetric field-of-view angle constraint, input magnitude and rate saturation, and system uncertainties. A novel nonlinear three-dimensional IGC model is established in the body line-of-sight (LOS) coordinate system by employing the dual-integral control law. Based on this model, the input magnitude and rate saturation for the conventional IGC system can be converted to the limitations of the new augmented states. Asymmetric integral barrier Lyapunov function and dynamic surface control approach are applied to deal with the asymmetric state constraints of the proposed IGC model, and adaptive control laws are designed to compensate for model uncertainties. Furthermore, based on the Lyapunov stability theory, it is proved that all signals in the closed-loop system are bounded while the constrained states are not violated. Finally, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed IGC scheme are illustrated with numerical simulations.
Stimulus specificity in combined action observation and motor imagery of typing
Authors: Woodrow-Hill Camilla , Gowen Emma , Vogt Stefan , Edmonds Eve , Poliakoff Ellen
Published: March 2024

Combined action observation and motor imagery (AO + MI) can improve movement execution (ME) in healthy adults and certain patient populations. However, it is unclear how the specificity of the observation component during AO + MI influences ME. As generalised observation could result in more flexible AO + MI rehabilitation programmes, this study investigated whether observing typing of target words (specific condition) or non-matching words (general condition) during AO + MI would have different effects on keyboard typing in healthy young adults. In Experiment 1, 51 students imagined typing a target word while watching typing videos that were either specific to the target word or general. There were no differences in typing execution between AO + MI conditions, though participants typed more slowly after both AO + MI conditions compared with no observation or imagery. Experiment 2 repeated Experiment 1 in 20 students, but with a faster stimulus speed in the AO + MI conditions and increased cognitive difficulty in the control condition. The results showed that the slowed typing after AO + MI was likely due to a strong influence of task-switching between imagery and execution, as well as an automatic imitation effect. Both experiments demonstrate that general and specific AO + MI comparably affect ME. In addition, slower ME following both AO + MI and a challenging cognitive task provides support for the motor-cognitive model of MI.
Licensed to Rock (or so they say). How Popular Music Programmes at Higher Music Education Institutions Create Professional Musicians
Authors: Everts Rick , Berkers Pauwke , Hitters Erik
Published: March 2024

Due to technological innovations, the music industries have become more accessible for outsiders over the past two decades. Yet, over the same period we have seen an increasing number of popular music programmes at higher music education institutions (HPME programmes). Drawing from interviews with teachers, focus groups with students and a content analysis of policy documents at three Dutch HPME programmes, we investigate whether and in which ways students and teachers perceive such programmes to contribute to the career development of their students. Results indicate that the main benefits that these programmes are perceived to offer concern the development of a set of necessary competences, the establishment of industry relationships and the acquisition of symbolic resources. Second, we consider whether these benefits are understood to contribute to a form of professionalism. In line with the ‘normative value’ perspective on professionalism we find that a norm of expertise is promoted, and in line with the ‘power struggle’ perspective we find that these symbolic resources help to foster a professional identity, both of which are believed to help students to stand out from musicians without forms of formal education entering the market.
Preventive health behaviour differences across racial groups during the early stages of COVID-19
Authors: Mitchell Jordan , Li Xiao , Decker Phillip , Park Jae Man
Published: March 2024

Background

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the practice of preventative health behaviours had been used disparately across different racial groups. This study seeks to identify any differences in preventative health behaviours across racial groups, controlling for other socio-demographic factors.

Methods

A US national survey study was electronically conducted from July through November 2020, to measure racial/ethnic differences in health preventive behaviours about COVID-19. We performed 2-part regression models to assess whether preventive health behaviours differed by race and ethnicity. Specifically, we employed generalized logistic regressions for investigating the predictors of the use of complementary or alternative medicine (CAM), or stay-at-home strategy, then performed ordinal logistic regression to examine the predictors of social distancing, face mask wearing, and hand hygiene strategy practice.

Results

The results show that non-White respondents were more likely to practice social distancing, mask wearing, and hand hygiene strategy to prevent COVID-19, compared to their White counterparts. Additionally, the findings indicate that individuals who experienced COVID-19-related racial abuse or depression had a higher likelihood of practicing preventive health behaviours.

Discussion

We found ethnicity can be a predictor of health preventive behaviours, in accordance with previous research. The causes of these disparities will require further investigation in order to be addressed.
Occupation-based practice in hand therapy – perspectives from a South African occupational therapy survey
Authors: Vorster Ilande , Buchanan Helen
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Hand injuries affect occupational engagement and participation, yet anecdotal evidence reports a focus on body structures and functions within hand therapy. Failing to address occupational challenges may result in sub-optimal patient outcomes. In line with the growing body of evidence of positive outcomes relating to occupation-based practice (OBP), this article aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards OBP of occupational therapists treating hand-related conditions in South Africa.

Methods

In this quantitative, cross-sectional study, South African occupational therapists treating hand conditions were recruited. Data were collected via an emailed survey developed for the study. Data were analysed descriptively.

Results

Sixty-seven responses met the inclusion criteria, a response rate of 62%. Most respondents worked in the private sector (73%) with many holding postgraduate qualifications (54%). Lack of access to evidence and a preference for biomedical literature impacted on acquiring knowledge on OBP. Attitudes towards OBP were mostly positive. Barriers were contextual, patient-related and therapist-related. Practice focussed predominantly on performance components and aimed to reduce impairment rather than promoting occupational engagement.

Conclusion

Current hand therapy services in South Africa reflect a biomechanically-focused practice that is mis-aligned with occupational therapy philosophy. In line with existing research, OBP should be adopted more routinely in hand therapy in South Africa.
Iatrogenic Epileptogenicity Caused by CNS Drugs: A Short Case Series and Narrative Review
Authors: Morgan Annalisa , Punia Vineet
Published: March 2024

Multiple medications are known to increase epileptogenicity in patients with and without an underlying seizure disorder. Paradoxically, some of these medications include anti-seizure medications (ASMs) and other medications, such as psychotropics, that act on the central nervous system (CNS). This article aims to discuss 3 clinical cases that highlight the gamut of epileptogenic reactivity secondary to CNS drugs ranging from increased epileptogenicity in the form of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) without seizures, increased epileptogenicity on electroencephalogram (EEG) with associated non-epileptic movement disorders, and frank, de novo seizures. We also analyze the relevant literature on the impact of CNS medications on epileptogenicity.
Estimating Periodontitis Susceptibility Cases for Epidemiological Studies with Multiple Imputation
Authors: Zhang L. , Xiao M. , Chu H. , Kotsakis G.A. , Guan W.
Published: March 2024

Approximately half of the US noninstitutionalized population ≥30 y old has periodontitis. An accurate measure for the assessment of periodontitis burden is crucial to assess population-level treatment needs. Nonetheless, because periodontitis ultimately leads to tooth loss, missing periodontal measurements due to tooth loss may pose a critical challenge to accurate periodontitis surveillance in public health. In this study, we aim to propose a novel estimate, the prevalence of periodontitis susceptibility cases, which incorporates both observed values and plausible values at missing teeth generated using multivariate imputation by chained equations (MICE). Using data from the 2009–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (n = 7,006), preimputation, 48.4% participants were defined as moderate or severe periodontitis cases, and the number increased to 55.1% after considering the periodontitis susceptibility cases via imputation. The imputed periodontitis susceptibility status was validated by linking it to 2 well-established risk factors: age and smoking. Before imputation, the prevalence of severe periodontitis first increased with age and then declined drastically in older age groups (60+ y), reflecting an underestimation due to tooth loss. Postimputation, the prevalence demonstrated a remarkable increase in these groups, who are most affected by tooth loss, and then stabilized, consistent with known trends. The relative risk of periodontitis in smokers to that in nonsmokers was 1.04 (0.82–1.32) among the subpopulation with 15 to 28 teeth lost prior to imputation, while after imputation, the association considerably strengthened (relative risk = 1.16 [1.04–1.30]). Our results elucidated that leveraging the missing data due to tooth loss via MICE is informative for improving the assessment of total periodontitis burden, including active periodontitis cases and periodontitis susceptibility cases, and may have favorable impact in enhancing the validity of periodontitis associations in epidemiological studies.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Our proposed estimate of periodontitis susceptibility cases addresses the issue of missing teeth, offering an innovative solution through a generative missing data imputation model. The implications of our findings extend to fostering more robust investigations into the relationships between periodontal health and systemic diseases, thereby offering valuable insights to clinicians for informed decision-making. Moreover, the study’s capacity to shape clinical practices and interventions in public health will further fortify health policy strategies.
Correlation Between Student Performances on Case-Based Constructed-Response Formative Assessment and Summative Assessment
Authors: Jones Deborah , Oh Se-Lim
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of formative assessment with case-based constructed-response question (CRQ) formats on student performance on the final summative assessment in the second-year periodontics course.

METHODS

Classroom quizzes with case-based CRQs were implemented as the formative assessment during the course. Each student received feedback on their responses from the course director. After all students (N = 128) took the second-year final examination, the Friedman test was conducted to compare student performances in each assessment over time. The multiple linear regression (MLR) model was used to evaluate the association between the second-year final examination score and plausible predictors—student gender, the second-year formative and midterm examination scores, and time spent on the final examination.

RESULTS

The mean % scores in the formative assessment (51) and midterm (84) examination were significantly lower than that of the final (87) examination ( P < .01). The number of students who failed the final (6) examination was significantly lower than the midterm (16) examination ( P = .03). The midterm ( P < .0001) and the formative assessment ( P = .0009) scores significantly affected the second-year final examination score while student gender ( P = .59) and time spending ( P = .83) showed no correlations.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of the study, student performance on case-based CRQs was correlated with student performance on the summative assessment.
Charging the non-networked: Water pricing governance of the heterogeneous infrastructures beyond the utility network in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Dakyaga Francis , Schramm Sophie , Lupala John M. , Magembe-Mushi Dawah Lulu
Published: March 2024

Though urban scholars have drawn our attention to the multiple water infrastructures serving urbanites in the global South, studies rarely explored the practice through which prices are produced and governed within the heterogeneous infrastructures that supply water beyond the utility. Drawing perspectives from everyday pricing practices and heterogeneous water infrastructures, we contribute to the scientific discourse on heterogeneous infrastructures, everyday practices and infrastructure governance by showing how multiple infrastructural systems beyond the utility network, such as hydro-mobile and private network water providers produced prices to mediate water collection. Prices were established based on the cost of electricity, fuel, repairs and maintenance, location and/or distance, nature of road connectivity to clients’ residences, and providers’ expected profit margins. Water providers’ discretions and learning by doing enabled the continuity of pricing practices. The conventional practice of non-collective negotiation and bargaining produced specific prices between water providers and end-users. The novelty of the paper emanates from the ways in which prices are produced and governed. In contrast to conventional tariff systems, reflectivity, creativity, practical knowledge and experiences acquired by non-state actors over time works to produce prices. The involved non-state actors exercised regulatory power over prices of water produced and supplied beyond the utility. When prices were established, they remained subject to modification. We argue that the focus on pricing sheds light on an important aspect of heterogeneous infrastructure provision and governance: where varied prices are established outside formal regulation, they reflect, shape and exacerbate fine-grained socio-spatial differences between individuals within single neighbourhood.
Nucleus–Mitochondria Contact Sites Are Associated With Asynthetic Fission in Zebrafish Skin
Authors: Tracey-White Dhani , Hayes Matthew J
Published: March 2024

Rapid increase in body surface area of growing zebrafish larvae ( Danio rario) is partially accomplished by asynthetic fission of superficial epithelial cells (SECs) of the skin. There are two cycles of this atypical form of cell division which is unaccompanied by DNA replication; resulting in cells with a variable DNA content. Here, electron microscopy of basal epithelium cells that give rise to these SECs in zebrafish larvae shows aggregation of mitochondria around the nucleus and the formation of nucleus–mitochondria membrane contact sites. Membrane aggregates appear in the lumen of the nuclear envelope at these sites of membrane contact in some cells, suggesting lipid turnover in this vicinity. As the epithelial cells mature and stratify, the mitochondria are engulfed by extensions arising from the nuclear envelope. The mitochondrial outer membrane fragments and mitochondria fuse with the nuclear envelope and parts of the endoplasmic reticulum. Other organelles, including the Golgi apparatus, progressively localize to a central region of the cell and lose their integrity. Thus, asynthetic fission is accompanied by an atypical pattern of organelle destruction and a prelude to this is the formation of nucleus–mitochondria membrane contact sites.
Current evidence for lung ultrasound elastography in the field of pneumology: a systematic review
Authors: Vargas-Ursúa Fernando , Ramos-Hernández Cristina , Pazos-Area Luis Alberto , Fernández-Granda Ignacio , Rodríguez-Otero Iván , Gómez-Corredoira Eva , Pintos-Louro Manuel , Fernández-Villar Alberto
Published: March 2024

Background and objectives

Elastography is a technology that has strongly impacted several medical specialties; however, it is not yet applied as part of standard clinical practice in the field of pulmonology. The objective of this systematic review is to analyse the evidence available to date in relation to pleuropulmonary ultrasound elastography, focusing on the three pathologies with the most publications: subpleural consolidations, interstitial lung diseases and pleural effusion.

Methods

Originalin vivostudies published up until 12 August 2023 in the Embase, MEDLINE or Web of Science databases were included. The QUADAS-2 tool was applied to analyse bias.

Results

We found 613 records in database search. After duplicates removal, we screened 246 records and finally included 18 papers. The average cohort sample size was 109 patients. The elastography modes most frequently used were strain (22.2%), transient elastography (22.2%), point shear-wave elastography (38.9%) and two-dimensional shear-wave elastography (22.2%). The possibility of a meta-analysis was ruled out because of the heterogeneity of the studies included.

Discussion

The currently available literature indicates that pleuropulmonary ultrasound elastography produces promising and consistent results, although the lack of standardisation in the use of the technique and in the elastography modes employed still impedes its use in daily clinical pneumology practice. The development of a clinical guideline establishing a common nomenclature and standardised techniques for pleuropulmonary elastography will be imperative to generate quality scientific evidence in this field.
Mechanical stretch leads to increased caveolin-1 content and mineralization potential in extracellular vesicles from vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Shaver Mohammad , Gomez Kassandra , Kaiser Katherine , Hutcheson Joshua D.
Published: March 2024

Background

Hypertension-induced mechanical stress on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a known risk factor for vascular remodeling, including vascular calcification. Caveolin-1 (Cav-1), an integral structural component of plasma membrane invaginations, is a mechanosensitive protein that is required for the formation of calcifying extracellular vesicles (EVs). However, the role of mechanics in Cav-1-induced EV formation from VSMCs has not been reported.

Results

Exposure of VSMCs to 10% mechanical stretch (0.5 Hz) for 72 h resulted in Cav-1 translocation into non-caveolar regions of the plasma membrane and subsequent redistribution of Cav-1 from the VSMCs into EVs. Inhibition of Rho-A kinase (ROCK) in mechanically-stimulated VSMCs exacerbated the liberation of Cav-1 positive EVs from the cells, suggesting a potential involvement of actin stress fibers in this process. The mineralization potential of EVs was measured by incubating the EVs in a high phosphate solution and measuring light scattered by the minerals at 340 nm. EVs released from stretched VSMCs showed higher mineralization potential than the EVs released from non-stretched VSMCs. Culturing VSMCs in pro-calcific media and exposure to mechanical stretch increased tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase (ALP), an important enzyme in vascular calcification, activity in EVs released from the cells, with cyclic stretch further elevating EV ALP activity compared to non-stretched cells.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrate that mechanical stretch alters Cav-1 trafficking and EV release, and the released EVs have elevated mineralization potential.
Similarities and differences in the prevalence and risk factors of suicidal behavior between caregivers and people with dementia: a systematic review
Authors: Mohamad Mohd Afifuddin , Leong Bin Abdullah Mohammad Farris Iman , Shari Nurul Izzah
Published: March 2024

Background

People with dementia and their caregivers are prone to suicidal behaviors due to difficulty adjusting to their initial caregiving role and due to emotional disturbances resulting from deterioration of functioning. The present systematic review (1) explored the prevalence of and risk factors for suicidal behavior and (2) assessed the similarities and differences in the prevalence and risk factors for suicidal behavior between people with dementia and their caregivers.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search for research articles published between 1950 and 2023 was carried out using major databases, such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and Medline.

Results

A total of 40 research articles were selected for review. A total of 12 research articles revealed that the prevalence of suicidal behavior among caregivers ranged from 4.7% to 26%. However, the risk of suicidal behavior among people with dementia was inconsistent, as only 17 out of 28 selected studies reported the risk of suicidal behavior among people with dementia. The risk factors associated with suicidal behavior among caregivers of people with dementia could be both self-related and care receiver-related factors, whereas risk factors in people with dementia were self-related factors. Notably, greater cognitive decline, which impairs individuals’ ability to carry out complex acts and planning, may lower their suicidal risk. Finally, assessment of the risk of bias indicated that 95% of the selected studies had unclear risk.

Conclusion

Self-related and care receiver-related factors should be assessed among caregivers of people with dementia to evaluate the risk of suicidal behavior. In addition, we recommend evaluating suicidal risk in people with dementia in the early phase of dementia when cognitive decline is less severe. However, as the majority of the selected studies had unclear risk of bias, future studies with improved methodologies are warranted to confirm our study findings.
Characteristics of reproductive tract infections caused by common pathogens among the outpatients of reproductive medicine center in Putian: retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Jiancheng , Wu Tingli , Wang Laiping , Yu Liumin , Lin Hua , Chen Zhanfei
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aims to explore the infection and age distribution of Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU), Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) and Herpes simplex virus type II (HSV II) among the outpatients of Reproductive Medicine Center in Putian, Fujian Province to provide a clinical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of various reproductive tract diseases and infertility in this region.

Methods

A total of 1736 samples of secretions and exfoliated cervical cells were collected from the outpatients of the Reproductive Medicine Center of the Affiliated Hospital of Putian University from December 2021 to April 2023. The infections of UU, CT, NG and HSVII were detected by real-time fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the infection statuses of the patients with different genders, ages and diagnoses were analysed.

Results

Among the 1736 patients, 611 were male and 1125 were female. The male patients had higher UU infection rate but lower HSV II infection rate than the female patients. No significant difference in CT and NG infection rates was observed between the genders. The CT infection rate gradually decreased with the increase in the age. The difference in UU, NG and HSV II infection rates among the different age groups was not statistically significant. For UU infection, the male infertile patients had the highest rate of 37.72% (172/456). Meanwhile, the differences in CT, NG and HSV II infection rates among the different diagnosis groups were not statistically significant. Among the male and female infertile patients, the CT infection rate was the highest in the 21–25 years of age group at 11.11% (2/18) and 9.47% (9/95), respectively. No statistically significant difference in UU, CT, NG and HSV II infection rates was observed among the different age groups of patients diagnosed in relation to the family planning guidance and between the male and female patients with other diagnoses results.

Conclusions

This study showed that UU was the most frequently identified pathogen in infertile men in Putian, Fujian Province. The CT infection rate was the highest in people under 20 years old, and the infection showed a tendency toward young individuals. Therefore, the publicity of sexual health knowledge must be strengthened, and the prevention and treatment of venereal diseases among young and middle-aged people must be improved. Moreover, the pathogen infection is related to infertility to a certain extent, which is conducive to clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Spatio-temporal spread and evolution of Lassa virus in West Africa
Authors: Wang Xia , Ye Xianwei , Li Ruihua , Zai Xiaodong , Hu Mingda , Wang Shaoyan , Ren Hongguang , Jin Yuan , Xu Junjie , Yue Junjie
Published: March 2024

Background

Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic disease caused by Lassa virus (LASV), which has been classified by the World Health Organization as one of the top infectious diseases requiring prioritized research. Previous studies have provided insights into the classification and geographic characteristics of LASV lineages. However, the factor of the distribution and evolution characteristics and phylodynamics of the virus was still limited.

Methods

To enhance comprehensive understanding of LASV, we employed phylogenetic analysis, reassortment and recombination detection, and variation evaluation utilizing publicly available viral genome sequences.

Results

The results showed the estimated the root of time of the most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) for large (L) segment was approximately 634 (95% HPD: [385879]), whereas the TMRCA for small (S) segment was around 1224 (95% HPD: [10301401]). LASV primarily spread from east to west in West Africa through two routes, and in route 2, the virus independently spread to surrounding countries through Liberia, resulting in a wider spread of LASV. From 1969 to 2018, the effective population size experienced two significant increased, indicating the enhanced genetic diversity of LASV. We also found the evolution rate of L segment was faster than S segment, further results showed zinc-binding protein had the fastest evolution rate. Reassortment events were detected in multiple lineages including sub-lineage IIg, while recombination events were observed within lineage V. Significant amino acid changes in the glycoprotein precursor of LASV were identified, demonstrating sequence diversity among lineages in LASV.

Conclusion

This study comprehensively elucidated the transmission and evolution of LASV in West Africa, providing detailed insights into reassortment events, recombination events, and amino acid variations.
Kidney replacement and conservative therapies in rhabdomyolysis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: de Fallois Jonathan , Scharm Robert , Lindner Tom H. , Scharf Christina , Petros Sirak , Weidhase Lorenz
Published: March 2024

Background

Toxic renal effects of myoglobin following rhabdomyolysis can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) with the necessity of kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Fast elimination of myoglobin seems notable to save kidney function and intensify kidney repair. Clinical data regarding efficacy of KRT in critical care patients with rhabdomyolysis and AKI are limited. This retrospective analysis aimed to identify differences between conservative therapy and different modalities of KRT regarding myoglobin elimination and clinical outcome.

Methods

This systematic, retrospective, single-center study analyzed 328 critical care patients with rhabdomyolysis (myoglobin > 1000 µg/l). Median reduction rate of myoglobin after starting KRT was calculated and compared for different modalities. Multivariate logistic regression models were established to identify potential confounder on hospital mortality. Filter lifetime of the various extracorporeal circuits was analyzed by Kaplan–Meier curves.

Results

From 328 included patients 171 required KRT. Health condition at admission of this group was more critical compared to patient with conservative therapy. Myoglobin reduction rate did not differ between the groups (KRT 49% [30.8%; 72.2%] vs. conservative treatment (CT) 61% [38.5%; 73.5%]; p = 0.082). Comparison between various extracorporeal procedures concerning mortality showed no significant differences. Hospital mortality was 55.6% among patients with KRT and 18.5% with CT (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression model identified requirement for KRT (OR: 2.163; CI: 1.061–4.407); p = 0.034) and the SOFA Score (OR: 1.111; CI: 1.004–1.228; p = 0.041) as independent predictive factors for hospital mortality. When comparing specific KRT using multivariate regression, no benefit was demonstrated for any treatment modality. Life span of the extracorporeal circuit was shorter with CVVH compared to that of others (log-Rank p = 0.017).

Conclusions

This study emphasizes that AKI requiring KRT following rhabdomyolysis is accompanied by high mortality rate. Differences in myoglobin reduction rate between various KRTs could not be confirmed, but CVVH was associated with reduced filter lifetime compared to other KRTs, which enable myoglobin elimination, too.

Graphical Abstract
Changes in diet and physical activity following a community-wide pilot intervention to tackle childhood obesity in a deprived inner-London ward
Authors: Bijlani Charan , Vrinten Charlotte , Junghans Cornelia , Chang Kiara , Lewis Ellie , Mulla UmmeZeinab , Seferidi Paraskevi , Laverty Anthony A. , Vamos Eszter P.
Published: March 2024

Background

Local authorities in England have an important role in shaping healthy local environments contributing to childhood obesity. This study examined changes in diet and physical activity in primary school children following a three-year, complex, community-based intervention in Golborne ward, the second most deprived ward in London.

Methods

The Go-Golborne intervention aimed to shape the local environment across multiple settings with the engagement of a large number of local government and community stakeholders in a joint approach. Activities focused on six co-created themes to make changes to local environments and reduce sugary snacks and beverage consumption, increase fruit and vegetable intake, promote healthy snacks, increase active play and travel, and reduce screen time. We analysed changes in self-reported diet and physical activity, collected annually between 2016 and 2019, from 1,650 children aged 6–11 years through six local schools, who all received the intervention. We used multilevel, linear and logistic random-slope regression models adjusted for time on study, baseline age, gender, ethnicity, deprivation quintile, school, and baseline weight status.

Results

After three years of follow-up, there were reductions in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (adjusted beta -0·43 occasions/day, 95% CI -0·55 to -0·32), fruit and vegetable consumption (adjusted beta -0.22 portions, 95% CI -0.44 to 0.001) and car travel to and from school (adjusted OR 0·19, 95% CI 0·06 to 0·66), while screen time increased (high versus moderate/low: OR 2·30, 95% CI 1·36 to 3·90). For other behavioural outcomes, there was no statistically significant evidence of changes.

Conclusion

Local authorities have substantial powers to make positive changes to the obesogenic environment but programmes remain under-evaluated. Results from the ambitious Go-Golborne intervention demonstrated mixed results in health behaviours following programme implementation. These results underline the importance of a coordinated and comprehensive policy response to support changes in wider environmental and social conditions as well as appropriate and holistic evaluations of initiatives to inform local actions on obesogenic environments.
Social participation, subjective well-being, and cognitive function as serial mediators between tooth loss and functional limitations in older Chinese adults.
Authors: Ma Weibo , Liang Pengchen , Wu Bei , Yu Ying , Shi Qiusi , Zhong Renyao
Published: March 2024

Background

Although tooth loss appears to be related to functional limitations, the mechanisms that underpin this relationship are unknown. We sought to address this knowledge gap by examining a multiple mediation hypothesis whereby tooth loss is predicted to indirectly affect functional limitations through social participation, subjective well-being, and cognitive function.

Methods

This study included 7,629 Chinese adults from the 2017/2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey wave. The serial mediation effects were examined using Model 6 in the Hayes’ PROCESS macro for SPSS.

Results

Tooth loss was significantly related to functional limitations. There was a direct (β = − 0.0308; 95% CI, − 0.0131 to − 0.0036) and indirect (β = − 0.0068; 95% CI, − 0.0096 to − 0.0041) association between tooth loss and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) limitations, but only an indirect correlation with activities of daily living (ADL) limitations (β = − 0.0188; 95% CI, − 0.0259 to − 0.0121). Social participation, subjective well-being, and cognitive function serially mediated the relationship between tooth loss and ADL/IADL limitations.

Conclusion

The association between tooth loss and functional limitations is serially mediated by social participation, subjective well-being, and cognitive function. Our findings underscore the necessity of considering psychological and social factors as integrated healthcare approaches for the functional health of older adults.
Mental health effects associated with COVID-19 financial assistance in South Korea: a comparison of employment status
Authors: Choi Yoonjoo , Park Eun-Joo , Lee Soon-Young , Kim Hee-Yeon , Lee Weon-Young
Published: March 2024

Background

COVID-19 has created tensions across different sectors of the society, but the impact has been unequal. Vulnerable people have been most affected, especially those with insecure employment and who have experienced economic hardships due to unemployment and lost wages. The combination of social change and economic hardships due to the pandemic increases the risk of poor mental health. Some countries have utilized financial assistance to alleviate economic hardships caused by COVID-19, and in South Korea, the central and local governments have implemented COVID-19 financial assistance. This study analysed the impact of financial assistance on mental health associated with working status during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea.

Methods

The participants of this study were randomly selected from residents of Gyeonggi-do after being proportionally allocated by resident registration population status. A total of 1,000 adult males and females aged 19 years or older in Gyeonggi-do who received financial assistance from the central and local governments were selected. A retrospective pre–post-study design was applied, and mental health surveys including the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7) were applied.

Results

The results show that depression scores averaged 5.5 and anxiety scores averaged 4.4 before COVID-19 Financial Assistance. It is similar to the national average of 5.1 and 4.5 respectively at that time. After the assistance, depression scores dropped to 4.5, and anxiety scores dropped to 3.2. Before the assistance, depression and anxiety were higher among temporary day labourers with less job security, and they showed the most significant improvement in mental health. For full-time workers, there was no significant change in anxiety or depression after receiving the assistance.

Conclusions

Financial assistance can provide material resources and also positively affect mental health. In particular, it had a greater impact on the relatively vulnerable groups, such as those in unstable employment.
Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment in land-based gambling: effects on online substitutes and total consumption in longitudinal sales data
Authors: Marionneau Virve , Selin Jani , Impinen Antti , Roukka Tomi
Published: March 2024

Background

Gambling causes important harms in societies. According to the public health approach, the most effective policies to reduce harms target full populations. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are among the most effective measures. However, restrictions on the availability of some gambling products or channels may also be offset by increased consumption in other products. Substitution effects can have negative public health impacts due to differing harm potential across different gambling products. This paper uses longitudinal sales data (2019–2022) from the Finnish gambling monopoly Veikkaus. During the observation period, the availability of gambling was restricted in Finland due to subsequent waves of Covid-19-related restrictions. In addition, the gambling monopoly introduced mandatory precommitment to land-based EGMs. We focus on how these restrictive policy changes impacted the total consumption of gambling and possible substitution effects.

Methods

The Finnish gambling monopoly provided weekly theoretical loss data per gambling product category and gambling channel (online, land-based) for the period of January 2019 – July 2022 based on a statutory obligation. We analysed the effects of availability restrictions and other public health measures on the consumption of different products using descriptive time series and regression analyses. We compared the sale of land-based products to online equivalents at product category level and included main policy change periods in the models.

Results

Total consumption of gambling declined during 2019–2022 mainly due to reduced land-based electronic gambling machine (EGM) consumption. Declines in land-based EGM sales were not offset by online alternatives or other close substitutes in the long term. However, during the first wave of Covid-19, there was an observable substitution of land-based table games by online alternatives and land-based horse betting and possibly sports betting by online horse betting. Overall, the results also show that Covid-19 functioned as a boost to an already existing trend of increasing digitalisation of gambling.

Conclusions

The study provides empirical support for the effectiveness of public health-oriented policies in reducing the total consumption of gambling. Availability restrictions and mandatory precommitment are therefore likely to also reduce the burden of harms of gambling to individuals and societies.