bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of real-time monitored ozone concentration from Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ihedike Christabel , Mooney John D. , Fulton John , Ling Jonathan
Published: March 2023

Real-time ozone (O3) concentration is vital for accurate analysis of O3 to inform the public about O3 concentrations that may have an adverse effect on health. Few studies have analysed air pollution in Abuja, Nigeria and non on real-time ozone concentrations. As a result, there is a scarcity of data and information on real-time ozone pollution, pointing to a gap that needs to be urgently closed to enable a better understanding of ozone pollution and the causes and consequences in terms of the associated health risks.

In this study, -time concentrations of ground-level ozone were measured in a busy urban pollution monitoring station. Using a real-time ozone monitor to enable real-time monitoring of O3 concentration of ozone for the first time in Abuja. The ozone concentrations followed a clear pattern with high concentrations being recorded during the dry (harmattan) season. Concentrations higher than the WHO standard of (eight-hour averaged) 100 µg/m3, occurred on 53 days over the 5-month dry season. Of those 53 days, 18 had ozone concentrations greater than 200 µg/m3. Daily patterns showed a rise throughout the day, reaching a peak in the evening. Weekday/weekend differences were less pronounced than those found in other studies. High temperatures and local climatic conditions in Abuja encourage the formation of ozone. In this study, we confirm the concentration of ozone, and the pattern can be episodic and potentially damaging to health. There is a need for better regulation and measures to reduce ozone, particularly when local climatic conditions, such as harmattan, favour the development of photochemical smog in such settings.
Spatiotemporal distribution and bivariate binary analysis of antenatal and delivery care utilizations in Ethiopia: EDHS 2000–2016
Authors: Awoke Shegaw Mamaru , Tesfaw Lijalem Melie , Derebe Muluwerk Ayele , Fenta Haile Mekonnen
Published: March 2023

Background

Antenatal care (ANC) is a maternal health care service given by skilled health professionals to pregnant women. Women may give birth at home or in health institutions. Home delivery care (DC) increases the likelihood of mortality of the mother and the newborn. Globally, each year nearly 303,000 maternal deaths occurred from complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Ethiopia alone accounted for 13,000 deaths, which disproportionately affects women living in different places of the country. Thus, this study aimed to assess the spatiotemporal patterns and associated factors of antenatal and delivery care utilization in Ethiopia.

Method

This study used the 2000 to 2016 EDHS (Ethiopian and Demographic Health Survey) data as a source. A total weighted sample of 30,762 women (7966 in 2000, 7297 in 2005, 7908 in 2011, and 7591 in 2016) was used. The separate and bivariate logistic regression analyses with and without the spatial effect were modeled using SAS version 9.4 and ArcGIS version 10.8.

Results

The spatial distribution of ANC and DC was non-random in Ethiopia. The overall odds ratio of ANC and DC was 2.09. In 2016, 31.8% and 33.2% of women had ANC and DC respectively. The estimated odds of following ANC among mothers from middle and rich households were 1.346 and 1.679 times the estimated odds of following ANC among mothers from poor households respectively. Women who had attained higher education were 1.56 and 2.03 times more likely to have ANC and DC respectively compared to women who had no formal education.

Conclusions

Despite the government's report that women now have better access to maternal health care, a sizable proportion of women continue to give birth at home without going to the advised antenatal care appointment. Women and husbands with low education, having non-working partners, religion, regions of dwelling, residing in rural, lower birth order, low birth interval, unable to access mass media, low wealth status, and earlier EDHS survey years were significant predictors that hinder antenatal and delivery care utilization simultaneously in Ethiopia. Whereas the spatial variable significantly affects antenatal care and being unable to access mobile phones lead to low utilization of delivery care. We recommend that policymakers, planners, and researchers consider these variables and the spatiotemporal distribution of ANC and DC to reduce maternal mortality in Ethiopia. Besides, it is recommended that further studies use the latest EDHS survey data.
Behavioral and social determinants of early childhood caries among Palestinian preschoolers in Jerusalem area: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kateeb Elham , Lim Sungwoo , Amer Saif , Ismail Amid
Published: March 2023

Background

This study came to determine the prevalence of Early Childhood Carries (ECC) among preschoolers in a marginalized population and describe the influence of behavioral and social determinants on the development of ECC.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study that was carried out in four random preschools in the Jerusalem Governorate of the Occupied Palestinian Territories. All children aged 3–5 years old in the selected schools were screened for ECC using the decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (dmft). Data on children’s socio-economic, feeding habits, hygiene habits, access to care, parental level of stress, social support, and locus of control were collected by a validated questionnaire sent to the children’s main caregivers. Descriptive statistics were generated and bivariable and multivariable analyses were used to explain the influence of different behavioral and social determinants on ECC levels.

Results

Four hundred and fifty-seven preschoolers completed the questionnaire and the clinical screening. Ninety-seven percent (n = 447) had experienced dental decay, with an average dmft score of 6.6 ± 4.3. After accounting for potential confounding, parents’ internal locus of control was associated with lower dental caries among children (IRR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.97, 0.98). Having routine, preventive visits versus never seeing a dentist were associated with lower dmft scores (IRR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.33, 0.52). Night feeding habits (putting things other than water in the baby bottle at night, having children sleep while being breastfed at night) were positively associated with children’s dental caries (IRR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.09: IRR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.29, respectively). Not adding sugar to the bottle was negatively associated with children’s dental caries (IRR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.74, 1.00).

Conclusions

Preschoolers in this study suffered from high dental caries experience. Although infant feeding habits were key factors in explaining the elevated level of the disease, system and socio-psychological factors were also detrimental to ECC prevalence. Policies and interventions to alleviate the burden of ECC need to address socioeconomic determinants of health in addition to feeding and hygiene practices.
Deep vein thrombosis in a patient with Cronkhite-Canada syndrome: a complex case report
Authors: Feng Xiao-Kai , Chen Xiao-Fen , Wang Bei-Bei , Zeng Zhi-Gang , Liu Chao , Sha Wei-Hong , Ma Juan
Published: March 2023

Background

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome (CCS) is a rare disease characterized by generalized gastrointestinal polyps, ectodermal abnormalities and variable gastrointestinal symptoms. Few cases to date have described complications with deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Here we reported a rare case of CCS concomitant with DVT. The patient’s clinical details, endoscopic findings, safety, and efficacy are reported.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old patient was admitted to our hospital with recurrent diarrhea, overall abnormal appearance, including hyperpigmentation, hair loss and onychodystrophy, and multiple polyps distributed along the gastrointestinal tract except the esophagus. After considerable assessment, the patient was diagnosed with CCS. She was also diagnosed with concurrent DVT, nephrotic syndrome, and infectious enteritis during the course of disease. After treatment with a combination of methylprednisolone, mesalazine, antibiotics, rivaroxaban, and nutritional support during the 24 months of following the patient in this case, the clinical manifestations and endoscopic findings reached complete remission two years after the diagnosis.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study is the first case of CCS complicated with DVT reported in China. Although rare, it is important to consider that DVT may occur after CCS and that it is vital to conduct careful follow-up.
Emotional distress among adolescents living with perinatal HIV in India: examining predictors and their mediating and moderating effects
Authors: Verma Archana , Kota Krishna Kiran , Bangar Sampada , Rahane Girish , Yenbhar Nayana , Sahay Seema
Published: March 2023

Background

Development of emotional distress (ED) among adolescents living with perinatally acquired HIV (ALPHIV) affects their adherence behaviour and social and psychological functioning. Data on stressors among ALPHIV demonstrates the gap on the predictors of ED experienced by ‘perinatally infected ALHIV’ in the Indian socio-cultural milieu. This study aimed to identify the predictors of ED and examine their mediating and moderating role in the development of ED among Indian ALPHIV.

Methods

Utilizing the sequential exploratory mixed-methods design, 43 qualitative interviews were conducted with ALPHIV, parents/guardians, and health care providers, followed by the cross-sectional survey among 100 ALPHIV (10–19 years). The distress subscale of the Weinberger Adjustment Inventory was used to measure ED. Qualitative data, analyzed using grounded theory were utilized to develop a survey tool. Bivariate and regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of ED. Mediation and moderation models were tested to examine underlying mechanisms associated with ED. The study was approved by the institutional ethics committee.

Results

Strong parental control, compulsive asexuality, perceived negatively different from peers, and anger toward parents were the major themes emerging from the qualitative component which eventually led to survey tool domains viz., HIV awareness, parental control, hypervigilance, adolescent-parent relationship, adolescent-parent communication, body image and perceived negatively different from peers (PNDP). Quantitative analysis indicated high ED among ALPHIV and ED was significantly associated with PNDP, anger, body image, and hypervigilance. The relationship between PNDP and ED was significantly mediated by anger, and moderated by body image and hypervigilance.

Conclusions

The study stresses the need for early mental health interventions for Indian ALPHIV before an ALPHIV develops ED. Focused counseling on anger assessment, body image issues, and self-perception is critical for leading a 'normal' life by ALPHIV. Besides, skill building of primary caregivers is recommended to draw a line between protection and overprotection.
A proteasomal β5 subunit of Haemonchus contortus with a role in the growth, development and life span
Authors: He Li , Zhang Hong-Run , Di Wen-Da , Li Fang-Fang , Wang Chun-Qun , Yang Xin , Liu Xiao-Fang , Hu Min
Published: March 2023

Background

The proteasome in eukaryotic cells can degrade a variety of proteins and plays an important role in regulating the cell cycle, cell survival and apoptosis. The proteasome receives much attention as a potential chemotherapeutic target for treatment of a variety of infectious parasitic diseases, but few studies of proteasomes have been done on parasitic nematodes.

Methods

A proteasomal β5 subunit encoding gene (named Hc-pbs-5) and its inferred product (Hc-PBS-5) in Haemonchus contortus were identified and characterized in this study. Then, the transcriptional profiles and anatomical expression were studied using an integrated molecular approach. Finally, a specific proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ), together with RNA interference (RNAi), was employed to assess the function of Hc-PBS-5.

Results

Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the coding sequence of Hc-pbs-5 was 855 bp long and encoded 284 amino acids (aa). The predicted protein (Hc-PBS-5) had core conservative sequences (65–250 aa) belonging to N-terminal nucleophile (Ntn) family of hydrolases. Real-time PCR results revealed that Hc-pbs-5 was continuously transcribed in eight developmental stages with higher levels at the infective third-stage larvae (L3s) and adult males of H. contortus. Immunohistochemical results revealed that Hc-PBS-5 was expressed in intestine, outer cuticle, muscle cells under the outer cuticle, cervical glands and seminal vesicles of male adults and also in intestine, outer cuticle, cervical glands, uterine wall, eggs and ovaries of female adults of H. contortus. BTZ could reduce proportions of egg hatching, and the fourth-stage larvae (L4s) developed from the exsheathed L3s (xL3s) of H. contortus. In addition, silencing Hc-pbs-5 by soaking the specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) could decrease the transcription of Hc-pbs-5 and result in fewer xL3s developing to L4s in vitro.

Conclusions

These results indicate that proteasomal β5 subunit plays an important role in the growth, development and life span of H. contortus.

Graphical Abstract
An immune-related signature for optimizing prognosis prediction and treatment decision of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yao Ninghua , Jiang Wei , Wang Yilang , Song Qianqian , Cao Xiaolei , Zheng Wenjie , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2023

Background

An immune-related gene signature (IGS) was established for discriminating prognosis, predicting benefit of immunotherapy, and exploring therapeutic options in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Based on Immune-related hub genes and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) LIHC dataset (n = 363), an immune-related gene signature (IGS) was established by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis. The prognostic significance and clinical implications of IGS were verified in International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and Chinese HCC (CHCC) cohorts. The molecular and immune characteristics and the benefit of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in IGS-defined subgroups were analyzed. In addition, by leveraging the Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal (CTRP) and PRISM Repurposing datasets, we determined the potential therapeutic agents for high IGS-risk patients.

Results

The IGS was constructed based on 8 immune-related hub genes with individual coefficients. The IGS risk model could robustly predict the survival of HCC patients in TCGA, ICGC, and CHCC cohorts. Compared with 4 previous established immune genes-based signatures, IGS exhibited superior performance in survival prediction. Additionally, for immunological characteristics and enriched pathways, a low-IGS score was correlated with IL-6/JAK/STAT3 signaling, inflammatory response and interferon α/γ response pathways, low TP53 mutation rate, high infiltration level, and more benefit from ICI therapy. In contrast, high IGS score manifested an immunosuppressive microenvironment and activated aggressive pathways. Finally, by in silico screening potential compounds, vindesine, ispinesib and dasatinib were identified as potential therapeutic agents for high-IGS risk patients.

Conclusions

This study developed a robust IGS model for survival prediction of HCC patients, providing new insights into integrating tailored risk stratification with precise immunotherapy and screening potentially targeted agents.
Dynamic variations in COVID-19 with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in Kazakhstan and Pakistan
Authors: Cui Qianqian , Shi Zhengli , Yimamaidi Duman , Hu Ben , Zhang Zhuo , Saqib Muhammad , Zohaib Ali , Gulnara Baikadamova , Yersyn Mukhanbetkaliyev , Hu Zengyun , Li Shizhu
Published: March 2023

Background

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the Omicron variant presents a formidable challenge for control and prevention worldwide, especially for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Hence, taking Kazakhstan and Pakistan as examples, this study aims to explore COVID-19 transmission with the Omicron variant at different contact, quarantine and test rates.

Methods

A disease dynamic model was applied, the population was segmented, and three time stages for Omicron transmission were established: the initial outbreak, a period of stabilization, and a second outbreak. The impact of population contact, quarantine and testing on the disease are analyzed in five scenarios to analysis their impacts on the disease. Four statistical metrics are employed to quantify the model’s performance, including the correlation coefficient (CC), normalized absolute error, normalized root mean square error and distance between indices of simulation and observation (DISO).

Results

Our model has high performance in simulating COVID-19 transmission in Kazakhstan and Pakistan with high CC values greater than 0.9 and DISO values less than 0.5. Compared with the present measures (baseline), decreasing (increasing) the contact rates or increasing (decreasing) the quarantined rates can reduce (increase) the peak values of daily new cases and forward (delay) the peak value times (decreasing 842 and forward 2 days for Kazakhstan). The impact of the test rates on the disease are weak. When the start time of stage II is 6 days, the daily new cases are more than 8 and 5 times the rate for Kazakhstan and Pakistan, respectively (29,573 vs. 3259; 7398 vs. 1108). The impact of the start times of stage III on the disease are contradictory to those of stage II.

Conclusions

For the two LMICs, Kazakhstan and Pakistan, stronger control and prevention measures can be more effective in combating COVID-19. Therefore, to reduce Omicron transmission, strict management of population movement should be employed. Moreover, the timely application of these strategies also plays a key role in disease control.

Graphical abstract
The negotiated public realm in the contemporary city: hybrid walkable urban networks of Hong Kong
Authors: Choi Hee Sun , Bruyns Gerhard , Reeve Alan , Cui Minyu
Published: March 2023

This paper focuses on the character of multi-level pedestrian accessibility and walkability within the public and quasi-public realm in Hong Kong, using the particular case of the redevelopment of Taikoo Place in Quarry Bay. In an era when the value of public space as a space for public activity and debate is coming under increasing scrutiny, both in Hong Kong and internationally, this paper explores multi-level interior and exterior public and quasi-public realm, as ahybridform of interior open and transit space in a commercial setting that has becomes a central part of the city’s planning, designed to both serve and profit from the high level of pedestrian traffic. This paper draws on empirical research of pedestrian behaviour patterns to interrogate the value and significance of linked-spaces within commercial districts, both to the users and the real estate travelled through, using the city of Hong Kong as a reference and the specific case of Taikoo Place.
The comparative effect of computerized dynamic assessment and rater mediated assessment on EFL learners’ oral proficiency, writing performance, and test anxiety
Authors: Sherkuziyeva Nasiba , Imamutdinovna Gabidullina Farida , Ahmed Abdel-Al Ibrahim Khaled , Bayat Sania
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to examine the impacts of computerized dynamic assessment (C-DA) and rater-mediated assessment on the test anxiety, writing performance, and oral proficiency of Iranian EFL learners. Based on Preliminary English Test (PET) results, a sample of 64 intermediate participants was chosen from 93 students. Running a convenience sampling technique, target test-takers were randomly divided into the experimental groups (C-DA) and control (rater mediated assessment). Following that, both groups had pretests for oral and written skills. The Science Anxiety Scale (SAS) was also used to gauge their level of anxiety prior to treatment. The experimental group’s participants then received C-DA. Rater-mediated assessment, on the other hand, was given to the control group. Both groups took the post-test for writing performance, oral proficiency, and test anxiety at the conclusion of the treatment. According to the one-way ANCOVA analysis, the post-test results for the two groups were different. Based on the results, the experimental group outdid the control group on the oral proficiency, writing performance, and test anxiety post-tests. Iranian EFL learners were able to improve both their written and oral skills while experiencing less test anxiety thanks to C-DA. Finally, the conclusions, the implications, the limitations, and the suggestions for further studies were provided.
The role of bone marrow stimulation in rotator cuff repair: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Guang , Li Shangzhe , Jiang Chunyan , Zhang Hailong , Lu Yi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The objective of this study was to investigate whether RCR (rotator cuff repair) with BMS (bone marrow stimulation) can provide a lower retear rate and better shoulder function than arthroscopic RCR alone in rotator cuff tear (RCT) patients.

Method

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE and Web of Science databases were searched until Feb 2022. Risk of bias for randomized controlled trials was evaluated by two independent reviewers with Cochrane collaboration risk bias of tool, and that for cohort studies was evaluated with the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). The primary outcome was the retear rate. Secondary outcomes included the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, University of California, Los Angeles Shoulder Scale (UCLA) score, Constant‐Murley score (CMS) and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. Subgroup analysis was performed to explore the effect of suture method and tear size on BMS procedure.

Result

Five randomized controlled trials and four cohort studies with a total of 827 patients were included. The pooled retear rate between the RCR with BMS group and the RCR alone group was significantly different (17.5% vs. 28.9%; P < 0.0001). There were no differences in the ASES score, UCLA score and VAS score. The CMS was significantly higher in RCR with BMS group than the RCR alone groups (P = 0.02), while the difference was well below the MCID. RCR with BMS resulted in a significantly lower retear rate than RCR alone for large and massive RCTs (19.7% vs. 32.5%; P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Compared with RCR alone, RCR with BMS can significantly reduce the retear rate in arthroscopic RCT patients while not clinically relevant differences were found. BMS may further reduce the retear rate of large and massive RCTs.

Level of evidence

Level III; Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis.
Cartilage lesion size and number of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells strongly influenced the SVF implantation outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Kim Yong Sang , Oh Sun Mi , Suh Dong Suk , Tak Dae Hyun , Kwon Yoo Beom , Koh Yong Gon
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study evaluated outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis following stromal vascular fraction implantation and assessed the associated prognostic factors.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 43 patients who underwent follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging 12 months after stromal vascular fraction implantation for knee osteoarthritis. Pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale and measured at baseline and 1‐, 3‐, 6‐, and 12‐month follow‐up appointments. In addition, cartilage repair was evaluated based on the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue scoring system using the magnetic resonance imaging from the 12‐month follow‐up. Finally, we evaluated the effects of various factors on outcomes following stromal vascular fraction implantation.

Results

Compared to the baseline value, the mean visual analogue scale score significantly and progressively decreased until 12 months post‐treatment (P < 0.05 for all, except n.s. between the 1 and 3‐month follow‐ups). The mean Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score was 70.5 ± 11.1. Furthermore, the mean visual analogue scale and Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue scores significantly correlated 12 months postoperatively (P = 0.002). Additionally, the cartilage lesion size and the number of stromal vascular fraction cells significantly correlated with the 12‐month visual analogue scale scores and the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue score. Multivariate analyses determined that the cartilage lesion size and the number of stromal vascular fraction cells had a high prognostic significance for unsatisfactory outcomes.

Conclusion

Stromal vascular fraction implantation improved pain and cartilage regeneration for patients with knee osteoarthritis. The cartilage lesion size and the number of stromal vascular fraction cells significantly influenced the postoperative outcomes. Thus, these findings may serve as a basis for preoperative surgical decisions.

Level of evidence

IV.
Harmonization of standard uptake values across different positron emission tomography/computed tomography systems and different reconstruction algorithms: validation in oncology patients
Authors: Song Yufei , Meng Xiangxi , Cao Zhen , Zhao Wei , Zhang Yan , Guo Rui , Zhou Xin , Yang Zhi , Li Nan
Published: March 2023

Background

EQ.PET is a software package that overcomes the reconstruction-dependent variation of standard uptake values (SUV). In this study, we validated the use of EQ.PET for harmonizing SUVs between different positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) systems and reconstruction algorithms.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 49 patients with various cancers were scanned on a Biograph mCT (mCT) or Gemini TF 16 (Gemini) after [18F]FDG injections. Three groups of patient data were collected: Group 1, patients scanned on mCT or Gemini with data reconstructed using two parameters; Group 2, patients scanned twice on different PET scanners (interval between two scans, 68.9 ± 41.4 days); and Group 3, patients scanned twice using mCT with data reconstructed using different algorithms (interval between two scans, 109.5 ± 60.6 days). The SUVs of the lesions and background were measured, and the tumor-to-background ratios (TBRs) were calculated. In addition, the consistency between the two reconstruction algorithms and confounding factors were evaluated.

Results

In Group 1, the consistency of SUV and TBR between different reconstruction algorithms improved when the EQ.PET filter was applied. In Group 2, by comparing ΔSUV, ΔSUV%, ΔTBR, and ΔTBR% with and without the EQ.PET, the results showed significant differences (P < 0.05). In Group 3, Bland–Altman analysis of ΔSUV with EQ.PET showed an improved consistency relative to that without EQ.PET.

Conclusions

EQ.PET is an efficient tool to harmonize SUVs and TBRs across different reconstruction algorithms. Patients could benefit from the harmonized SUV, ΔSUV, and ΔSUV% for therapy responses and follow-up evaluations.
An evidence-based guide to the efficacy and safety of isometric resistance training in hypertension and clinical implications
Authors: Baffour-Awuah Biggie , Pearson Melissa J. , Dieberg Gudrun , Wiles Jonathan D. , Smart Neil A.
Published: March 2023

More than 30 randomized controlled trials, supported by individual patient-level and group-level meta-analyses and a Delphi analysis of expert opinion, unequivocally show isometric resistance training (IRT) elicits antihypertensive benefits in healthy people and those with chronic illness. We aim to provide efficacy and safety evidence, and a guide for IRT prescription and delivery. Recommendations are made for the use of IRT in specific patient populations and appropriate methods for IRT delivery. Published data suggest IRT consistently elicits mean blood pressure reductions of 7.4/3.3 mmHg systolic blood pressure/diastolic blood pressure, equivalent to antihypertensive medication monotherapy. Blood pressure reductions of this size are associated with an approximate 13% to 22% reduction in major cardiovascular events. Moreover, IRT is safe in a range of patient populations. We suggest that IRT has the greatest potential benefit when used as an antihypertensive therapy in individuals unwilling and/or unable to complete aerobic exercise, or who have had limited adherence or success with it; individuals with resistant or uncontrolled hypertension, already taking at least two pharmacological antihypertensive agents; and healthy or clinical populations, as an adjunct to aerobic exercise and dietary intervention in those who have not yet attained control of their hypertension. IRT is efficacious and produces clinically meaningful blood pressure reductions (systolic blood pressure, 7 mmHg; diastolic blood pressure, 3 mmHg). IRT is safe and typical program delivery requires only about 17 min weekly. IRT should be used as an adjunct to other exercise modalities, in people unable to complete other types of exercise, or in resistant hypertension.
Recreational Cannabis Legislation: substance use and impaired driving among Canadian rural and urban postsecondary students
Authors: Gueye N’deye Rokhaya , Prada Kevin , de Moissac Danielle
Published: March 2023

Background

Investigation of cannabis use trends among emerging adults (EA, aged between 18 and 24 years) following 2018 Canadian Recreational Cannabis Legislation (RCL) is critical. EAs report the heaviest cannabis use in Canada and are particularly vulnerable to the onset of problematic substance use.

Objectives

To describe and compare post-RCL use of cannabis and other state-altering substances, as well as the prevalence of impaired driving, among EA postsecondary students in both rural and urban settings, studying on one of five campuses in either Manitoba, Ontario, or Quebec.

Methods

For this quantitative cross-sectional study, a self-report survey was administered to 1496 EA postsecondary students in the months following RCL (2018–2019). Multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the influence of provincial and urban/rural living contexts on recreational cannabis use, other state-altering substance use and impaired driving behaviours, adjusting for sociodemographic variables.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed between cohorts in almost all measures. Quebec students were more likely to have consumed cannabis during their lifetime (AOR = 1.41, 95% CI [1.05, 1.90]) than all other cohorts. Rural cohorts all had greater odds of reporting consumption of cannabis during the previous year compared to urban cohorts (AOR = 1.32, 95% CI [1.04, 1.67]). However, the relation between cannabis use in the last month and operating a motor vehicle after using cannabis (lifetime and past month) and living context differed between subjects in Quebec and those in the two other provinces. Quebec’s students having lived mostly in urban contexts had greater odds of using cannabis in the past month and operating a motor vehicle after using cannabis (lifetime and past month) than those in rural contexts; the opposite was observed in Manitoba and Ontario. Differing interprovincial prohibitive/permissive legislation and licit cannabis infrastructure appeared to have little impact on post-RCL substance use.

Conclusions

In Manitoba and in Ontario, rural/urban living context seems to better predict substance use and related road-safety practices, suggesting these trends supersede permissive/prohibitive provincial legislation and licit cannabis-related infrastructures. Further investigation into sociodemographic factors influencing state-altering substance use and impaired driving, and maintaining tailored cannabis misuse prevention campaigns, is warranted on Canadian campuses.
Power management scheme development for large-scale solar grid integration
Authors: Fernandez Malcolm Isaac , Go Yun Ii
Published: March 2023

As solar power is an intermittent source of energy, it causes uncertainties when connected to the electrical grid. This work presents an optimised power management system for the integration of large-scale solar with improved voltage profile and power quality in compliance with the Malaysian Grid Code Requirements of 0.95–1.05 p.u. at the Point of Common Coupling. An integration of volt-var regulation using a smart inverter for solar photovoltaic system and optimised capacitor placements to attain a voltage profile close this Grid Code Requirements on all buses in the IEEE-9 bus will be carried out. The 116 MWp (peak) solar farm will be modelled to obtain the load profile of electricity injected into the grid on an annual hourly basis. This will be used to model the solar bus in the power system to test the changes in voltage profile, voltage deviations and reactive power flow. In the final results, the voltage profile improved to a range of 0.94–1.01 p.u. in the IEEE-9 bus even for the worse case scenarios of solar power penetration which happens from 12 to 1 pm.
Unsettling Ethnic Detail in Asian American Metafiction
Authors: Lee Wendy Allison
Published: March 2023

This essay examines the work of detail in contemporary Asian American metafiction by reconsidering Georg Lukács’s understanding of description as a mode of fiction that transforms humans into observers and objects via an excess of detail. Lukács’s work has informed views of how “exotic” details in Asian American fiction turn Asian American characters and people into objects of entertainment and edification for predominantly white readerships. Yet works of Asian American metafiction such as Maxine Hong Kingston’s Woman Warrior, Ruth Ozeki’s My Year of Meats, and Nam Le’s “Love and Honor and Pity and Pride and Compassion and Sacrifice” deploy description to unsettle detail’s objectifying effects. Their authors invent techniques of deploying racist and exotic details to reveal how the logic of liberal multiculturalism and diversity rather than the aesthetics of description transforms Asian American persons into things.
Exposure to Family Member Deaths Across the Life Course for Hispanic Individuals
Authors: Donnelly Rachel , Garcia Michael A. , Cha Hyungmin , Hummer Robert A. , Umberson Debra
Published: March 2023

The present study documents differences in exposure to family member deaths among foreign-born and U.S.-born Hispanic individuals compared with non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White individuals. We use data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; 1992–2016, ages 51+; N = 23,228) and the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health; Waves I–V, ages 12–43; N = 11,088) to estimate the risk of exposure to the death of a mother, father, spouse, sibling, and child across the life course. HRS results show more inequities in exposure to family deaths compared with Add Health results, suggesting differences by age or birth cohort. Compared with non-Hispanic Whites, U.S.-born Hispanic individuals in the HRS have a higher risk of experiencing a child's death throughout adulthood and a sibling's death in later life; the latter is explained by larger sibship size, indicating a greater lifetime risk of bereavement experiences. The higher risk of parental death during childhood for U.S.-born and foreign-born Hispanic individuals is explained by covariates (e.g., lower levels of educational attainment). Hispanic individuals generally have a lower risk of family deaths than non-Hispanic Black individuals, but at times a higher risk of exposure relative to non-Hispanic White individuals.
Outcome of Chronic Subdural Hematoma Intervention in Patients on Long-Term Antiplatelet Therapy—A Propensity Score Matched Analysis
Authors: Salih Mira , Young Michael , Garcia Alfonso , Stippler Martina , Papavassiliou Efstathios , Alterman Ron L. , Thomas Ajith J. , Taussky Philipp , Moore Justin , Ogilvy Christopher S.
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND:

Patients presenting with chronic subdural hematomas (cSDHs) and on antiplatelet medications for various medical conditions often complicate surgical decision making.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate risks of preprocedural and postprocedural antiplatelet use in patients with cSDHs.

METHODS:

Patients with cSDH who were treated between January 2006 and February 2022 at a single institution with surgical intervention were identified. A propensity score matching analysis was then performed analyzing length of hospitalization, periprocedural complications, reintervention rate, rebleeding risk, and reintervention rates.

RESULTS:

Preintervention, 178 patients were on long-term antiplatelet medication and 298 were not on any form of antiplatelet. Sixty matched pairs were included in the propensity score analysis. Postintervention, 88 patients were resumed on antiplatelet medication, whereas 388 patients did not have resumption of antiplatelets. Fifty-five pairs of matched patients were included in the postintervention propensity score analysis. No significant differences were found in length of hospitalization (7.8 ± 4.2 vs 6.8 ± 5.4, P = .25), procedural complications (3.3% vs 6.7%, P = .68), or reintervention during the same admission (3.3% vs 5%, P = 1). No significant differences were seen in recurrence rate (9.1% vs 10.9%, P = 1) or reintervention rate after discharge (7.3% vs 9.1%, P = 1) in the postintervention group.

CONCLUSION:

Preintervention antiplatelet medications before cSDH treatment do not affect length of hospitalization, periprocedural complications, or reintervention. Resumption of antiplatelet medication after cSDH procedures does not increase the rebleeding risk or reintervention rate.
Metabolic shift towards oxidative phosphorylation reduces cell-density-induced cancer-stem-cell-like characteristics in prostate cancer in vitro
Authors: Lai Hung Wei , Kasai Moe , Yamamoto Shinkuro , Fukuhara Hideo , Karashima Takashi , Kurabayashi Atsuhi , Furihata Mutsuo , Hanazaki Kazuhiro , Inoue Keiji , Ogura Shun-ichiro
Published: March 2023

Numerous cancer patients undergoing conventional cancer therapies such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgical tumour removal face relapses several years or even decades later. This may be due to the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) that survived said therapies. In this study, we aimed to uncover the relationship between cell density and CSCs, and the role of the Warburg effect in regulating CSC-like characteristics. A prostate cancer cell line, PC3, was used in this study. To investigate the Warburg effect effect and CSC-like characteristics in prostate cancer, we measured the expression levels of glycolysis and OXPHOS-related genes, and performed spheroid forming, cell viability and various glycolysis and OXPHOS-assays. We observed that increased cell density caused a metabolic shift from glycolysis to OXPHOS and higher CSC-like characteristics. However, the use of dichloroacetate (DCA), an inhibitor of the Warburg effect, significantly inhibited the cell-density-induced metabolic shift and CSC-like characteristics. Changes in cell density strongly influenced the preferred metabolic pathway of prostate cancer cells, regulating their CSC-like characteristics. It is possible that DCA, an inhibitor of the Warburg effect, could be a novel drug used to treat CSCs by distinguishing Warburg effect, preventing future cancer relapses.
Impaired fin regeneration and angiogenesis in aged zebrafish and turquoise killifish
Authors: Örling Johanna , Kosonen Katri , Villman Jenna , Reichard Martin , Paatero Ilkka
Published: March 2023

Impaired wound healing is associated with aging and has significant effects on human health on an individual level, but also on the whole health-care sector. Deficient angiogenesis appears to be involved in the process, but the underlying biology is still poorly understood. This is at least partially being explained by complexity and costs in using mammalian aging models. To understand aging-related vascular biology of impaired wound healing, we used zebrafish and turquoise killifish fin regeneration models. The regeneration of caudal fin after resection was significantly reduced in old individuals in both species. Age-related changes in angiogenesis, vascular density and expression levels of angiogenesis biomarker VEGF-A were observed. Furthermore, the anti-angiogenic drug vascular endothelial growth factor receptor blocking inhibitor SU5416 reduced regeneration, indicating a key role for angiogenesis in the regeneration of aging caudal fin despite aging-related changes in vasculature. Taken together, our data indicate that these fish fin regeneration models are suitable for studying aging-related decline in wound healing and associated alterations in aging vasculature.
Gluteal Muscle Forces during Hip-Focused Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation Exercises
Authors: COLLINGS TYLER J. , BOURNE MATTHEW N. , BARRETT ROD S. , MEINDERS EVY , GONçALVES BASíLIO A. M. , SHIELD ANTHONY J. , DIAMOND LAURA E.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to compare and rank gluteal muscle forces in eight hip-focused exercises performed with and without external resistance and describe the underlying fiber lengths, velocities, and muscle activations.

Methods

Motion capture, ground reaction forces, and electromyography (EMG) were used as input to an EMG-informed neuromusculoskeletal model to estimate gluteus maximus, medius, and minimus muscle forces. Participants were 14 female footballers (18–32 yr old) with at least 3 months of lower limb strength training experience. Each participant performed eight hip-focused exercises (single-leg squat, split squat, single-leg Romanian deadlift [RDL], single-leg hip thrust, banded side step, hip hike, side plank, and side-lying leg raise) with and without 12 repetition maximum (RM) resistance. For each muscle, exercises were ranked by peak muscle force, and k-means clustering separated exercises into four tiers.

Results

The tier 1 exercises for gluteus maximus were loaded split squat (95% confidence interval [CI] = 495–688 N), loaded single-leg RDL (95% CI = 500–655 N), and loaded single-leg hip thrust (95% CI = 505–640 N). The tier 1 exercises for gluteus medius were body weight side plank (95% CI = 338–483 N), loaded single-leg squat (95% CI = 278–422 N), and loaded single-leg RDL (95% CI = 283–405 N). The tier 1 exercises for gluteus minimus were loaded single-leg RDL (95% CI = 267–389 N) and body weight side plank (95% CI = 272–382 N). Peak gluteal muscle forces increased by 28–150 N when exercises were performed with 12RM external resistance compared with body weight only. Peak muscle force coincided with maximum fiber length for most exercises.

Conclusions

Gluteal muscle forces were exercise specific, and peak muscle forces increased by varying amounts when adding a 12RM external resistance. These findings may inform exercise selection by facilitating the targeting of individual gluteal muscles and optimization of mechanical loads to match performance, injury prevention, or rehabilitation training goals.
Readiness and determinants of Vietnam's general public to receive the COVID-19 Vaccine: a national online cross-sectional study
Authors: Thi Xuan Hoang Huong , Abu-Odah Hammoda , Hoang Vu Anh , Van Nguyen Liep
Published: March 2023

Background: Despite vaccinations' efficacy in combating disease, people's readiness to get the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine are substantially varied. This study aimed to assess Vietnamese people's readiness, attitudes, and determinants for COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods: A web-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a convenience sampling approach. The Vietnamese population's readiness to receive COVID-19 vaccinations was assessed using the 7C of vaccination readiness scale (7Cs). The scale was posted on Facebook and Zalo platforms. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and inferential analysis was applied to identify determinants predicting respondents' vaccine readiness.

Results: Of the 1086 respondents invited to the study, 1026 completed the questionnaire. The Vietnamese population demonstrated a moderate level of readiness for COVID-19 vaccination uptake, with an average 7Cs score of 103.25±15.13. A high level was underscored in the complacency, constraints, collective responsibility, and compliance components, and a low level was reported in the calculation component. The Vietnamese population emphasized that the awareness of the significant adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination was the primary factor influencing their readiness to get the vaccine (p < 0.001). Worrying about the vaccine manufacturer and its origin was the second most crucial factor influencing their readiness to get the vaccine (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Building confidence between people and the Vietnamese authorities is a high priority to enhance people's readiness to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The authorities should focus on dispelling disinformation posted on social media and promoting the usefulness of COVID-19 vaccines.
Progress and challenges for the application of machine learning for neglected tropical diseases
Authors: Khew ChungYuen , Akbar Rahmad , Mohd-Assaad Norfarhan
Published: March 2023

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) continue to affect the livelihood of individuals in countries in the Southeast Asia and Western Pacific region. These diseases have been long existing and have caused devastating health problems and economic decline to people in low- and middle-income (developing) countries. An estimated 1.7 billion of the world’s population suffer one or more NTDs annually, this puts approximately one in five individuals at risk for NTDs. In addition to health and social impact, NTDs inflict significant financial burden to patients, close relatives, and are responsible for billions of dollars lost in revenue from reduced labor productivity in developing countries alone. There is an urgent need to better improve the control and eradication or elimination efforts towards NTDs. This can be achieved by utilizing machine learning tools to better the surveillance, prediction and detection program, and combat NTDs through the discovery of new therapeutics against these pathogens. This review surveys the current application of machine learning tools for NTDs and the challenges to elevate the state-of-the-art of NTDs surveillance, management, and treatment.