bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Situational assessment and epidemiology of HIV, HBV and HCV among people who use and inject drugs in Ghana
Authors: Guure Chris , Dery Samuel , Baptista da Silva Carlota , Asamoah-Adu Comfort , Ayisi-Addo Stephen , Diaba Kofi , Loglo Maria-Goretti , Mohammed Adamu , Sarpong Yaw Akrasi , Hanu Samuel , Torpey Kwasi
Published: August 2024

Introduction

People who inject drugs (PWID) and people who use drugs (PWUD) are an important population group that remain under-served in Ghana. Though PWID and PWUD are among the key populations most-at-risk to acquire sexually transmitted or blood-borne diseases, they are among those with the least access to human immunodeficiency (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses’ prevention, care and treatment services in Ghana due to lack of data on them. We provide a rapid assessment of the PWUD and PWID situation in Ghana.

Methods

This rapid cross-sectional design undertook consultative meetings between the study team and relevant stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations (CSO) working with PWUD/PWID. The assessment considered a representative sample of PWID and PWUD. It was conducted in four (4) selected regions of Ghana (Greater Accra, Ashanti, Western, and Northern). Overall, 323 participants were interviewed using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) approach. Information obtained from participants were demographics, HIV risk behaviors, human immunodeficiency (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI)-related knowledge HIV/HCV/HBV screening, attitude, and practices among others. Analyses were conducted using Stata version 17 and RDSAT version 7.1.46 software.

Findings

Drug use was found to be more prevalent among the youth with a median age of 37 years. Majority of the respondents were males (86%). About 28% of the female respondents identified themselves as sex workers, while about 74% have been involved in transactional sex. The median age at which respondents started using and injecting drugs was 20 and 22 years respectively. Majority (68%) of the respondents consume drugs through smoking, with 20% through snorting, inhaling or swallowing and 12% through injection. The drug mostly used among the respondents was heroin (52%). The most commonly injected drug was cocaine (55%). About 64.7% of respondents reported mixing two or more drugs. HIV prevalence among respondents was 2.5%, 12.3% among women and 17.7% among women engaged in sex work, highlighting the overlap vulnerability. The prevalence of hepatitis C was 6.0%, and Hepatitis B was 4.5%. Access to care is limited, with 63% of the respondents never been tested for HIV.

Conclusion

These rapid assessment findings reveal the challenging conditions for people who use and inject drugs coupled with a relatively high prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis C compared to the general population. However, it also reveals that Ghana has a window of opportunity to prevent an exponential spread of HIV and Hepatitis in this population. Therefore, there is the need to implement prevention and treatment programs for HIV and hepatitis among people who use and inject drugs including essential strategies for an enabling environment in Ghana.
Drug-resistant tuberculosis care and treatment outcomes over the last 15 years in Ethiopia: Results from a mixed-method review of trends
Authors: Tesema E. , Biru M. , Leta T. , Kumsa A. , Liaulseged A. , Gizatie G. , Bogale T. , Million M. , Datiko D. G. , Gebreyohannes A. , Molla Y. , Hiruy N. , Mebnga M. , Suarez P. G. , Dememew Z. G. , Jerene D.
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives

Drug resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) remains a global challenge with about a third of the cases are not detected. With the recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment follow-up of DR-TB, there have been improvements with treatment success rates. However, there is limited evidence on the successful models of care that have consistently registered good outcomes. Our aim was to assess Ethiopia’s experience in scaling up an ambulatory, decentralized model of care while managing multiple regimen transition processes and external shocks.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, mixed-method study. For the quantitative data, we reviewed routine surveillance data for the period 2009–2022 and collected additional data from publicly available reports. We then analyzed the data descriptively. Qualitative data were collected from program reports, quarterly presentations, minutes of technical working group meetings, and clinical review committee reports and analyzed thematically.

Results

The number of DR-TB treatment initiating centers increased from 1 to 67, and enrollment increased from 88 in 2010 to 741 in 2019, but declined to 518 in 2022. A treatment success rate (TSR) of over 70% was sustained. The decentralized and ambulatory service delivery remained the core service delivery model. The country successfully navigated multiple regimen transitions, including the recently introduced six-month short oral regimen. Several challenges remain, including the lack of strong and sustainable specimen transportation system, lack of established systems for timely tracing and linking of missed DR-TB cases, and data quality issues.

Conclusions

Ethiopia scaled up a decentralized ambulatory model of care, kept up to date with recent developments in treatment regimens, and maintained a high TSR, despite the influence of multiple external challenges. The recent decline in case notification requires a deeper look into the underlying reasons. The feasibility of fully integrating DR-TB treatment and follow up at community level should be explored further.
The uric acid/albumin ratio might be a better indicator for predicting repeat revascularization in young patients with acute coronary syndrome: Beyond inflammatory biomarkers
Authors: Oflar Ersan , Karabulut Dilay , Yıldız Cennet , Sinoplu Hasan Ali , Dönmez Esra , Koyuncu Atilla , Özcan Sevgi , Çağlar Nihan Turhan
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite advancements in percutaneous and surgical revascularization techniques, nearly 20% of patients who undergo myocardial revascularization need repeat revascularization. Recently, identified as a prognostication factor for adverse cardiovascular events, the uric acid/albumin ratio (UAR) serves as a new marker for assessing inflammation and oxidative stress. Our objective was to investigate the association between UAR levels and repeat revascularization in young patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

We enrolled 371 patients with ACS who were under the age of 55 years and who had previously undergone primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Due to their recurrent symptoms, these patients underwent subsequent coronary angiographic examination. The study cohort was splitted into two groups based on whether repeat revascularization was needed.

Results

The study and control groups consisted of 99 and 272 patients, respectively. The mean age of the patients in the study cohort was 41.99±4.99 years. Patients who needed repeat revascularization, in comparison to those who did not, exhibited significantly greater levels of the UAR and uric acid, along with lower levels of neutrophils, stent diameter and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol. Additionally, they had more complex disease, as described by the SYNTAX score. To identify the influential factors associated with repeat revascularization, multivariate logistic regression was performed. SYNTAX score, stent diameter, uric acid levels and the UAR were predictive of the need for repeat revascularization.

Conclusions

UAR was found to be an inexpensive, easily accessible marker for identifying young patients with ACS requiring repeat revascularization.
Analysis of symbiotic backscatter empowered wireless sensors network with short-packet communications
Authors: Do Quang Vinh , Minh Bui Vu , Nguyen Quang-Sang , Kim Byung-seo
Published: August 2024

Recent progress studies in light of wireless communication systems mainly centred around two focuses: zero-energy consumption and ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (URLLC). Among various cutting-edge areas, exploiting ambient backscatter communication (Backcom) has recently been devised as one of the foremost solutions for achieving zero energy consumption through the viability of ambient radio frequency. Meanwhile, using short-packet communication (SPC) is the cheapest way to reach the goal of URLLCs. Upon these benefits, we investigate the feasibility of Backcom and SPC for symbiotic wireless sensor networks by analyzing the system performance. Specifically, we provide a highly approximated mathematical framework for evaluating the block-error rate (BLER) performance, followed by some useful asymptotic results. These results provide insights into the level of diversity and coding gain, as well as how packet design impacts BLER performance. Numerical results confirm the efficacy of the developed framework and the correctness of key insights gleaned from the asymptotic analyses.
Investigation of the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding the utilization of rosemary among the population in Jordan
Authors: Thiab Samar , Nassar Razan I. , Alamleh Saif Alislam , Aboqubo Abdullah , Aljebori Abdullah
Published: August 2024

Background

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) has a rich historical use for various reasons due to its beneficial characteristics including stimulating hair growth, providing antioxidant and antibacterial effects, and functioning as a skin conditioner and fragrance enhancer. The plant is cultivated in Jordan and using it is gaining popularity among the population.

Aim of the study

To assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of rosemary use among Jordanians.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting at least 385 participants via social media platforms. Face and content validity of the questionnaire was performed by independent researchers. The questionnaire was divided into three main sections including the demographics section, the knowledge section and the attitude toward rosemary use. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multiple linear regression.

Results

The study’s participants (n = 407) had a mean age of 30.98 years old (SD = 12.76). The mean knowledge score for the participants ranged from -5 to 7, with a mean of 2.96 (SD = 2.61), with younger participants exhibiting higher knowledge scores regarding rosemary. Approximately half of the participants (48.2%) reported using rosemary for medical purposes. About three-quarters reported using rosemary oil, but a higher percentage reported using the leaves. Around three quarters administered it orally or applied it topically. Most participants obtained rosemary by growing it at home or from herbalists. Family and friends were the main influencers for rosemary users. Most of the study participants strongly agreed/agreed that plants possess a healing power (94.4%). The most reported reason for using rosemary was improving the hair condition (82.1%) followed by gastrointestinal problems (67.9%).

Conclusions

The study highlights the widespread use of rosemary for different reasons through different methods of application. Addressing misconceptions and enhancing knowledge dissemination may allow informed decision-making and promote the safe and effective use of herbal therapies.
Zinc and thyroid cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Soares Aline Alves , Nagashima Yasmin Guerreiro , Alves Camila Xavier , de Medeiros Kleyton Santos , Lopes Márcia Marília Gomes Dantas , Brandão-Neto José
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The thyroid cancer has the ninth larger incidence of cancer in the world. Investigations related to the exposure to metals have become important due to the sensibility of the thyroid gland to them. Studies reveal that carcinogenic progressions are associated to the deficiency of the essential trace elements. In this context, the zinc is highlighted, essential for the metabolism of the thyroidal hormone and has a potential relation with the pathogenesis of the thyroid cancer. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the low serum zinc as a risk factor for thyroid cancer in adults.

Methods and analysis

PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase and LILACS databases will be searched for observational studies investigating the low serum zinc as a risk factor for thyroid cancer in adults. No language or publication period restrictions will be imposed. The primary outcome will be that the low serum zinc is a risk factor for thyroid cancer. Three independent reviewers will select the studies and extract data from the original publications. The risk-of-bias will be assessed by using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Data synthesis will be performed using the R software (V.4.3.1) and to assess heterogeneity, we will compute the I2 statistic and the results will be based on either random-effects or fixed-effects models, depending on the heterogeneity. The Grading of Recommendations, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system will be used to evaluate the reliability and quality of evidence.

Prospero registration number

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD42023463747.
Similar recurrence after curative treatment of HBV-related HCC, regardless of HBV replication activity
Authors: Kim Mi Na , Kim Beom Kyung , Cho Heejin , Goh Myung Ji , Roh Yun Ho , Yu Su Jong , Sinn Dong Hyun , Park Soo Young , Kim Seung Up
Published: August 2024

Background and aims

Antiviral therapy (AVT) is required in patients with newly diagnosed hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), if HBV DNA is detectable. We compared the risk of recurrence according to HBV replication activity at the curative treatment of HBV-related HCC.

Methods

Patients with HBV-related HCC who underwent surgical resection or radiofrequency ablation between 2013 and 2018 were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. Patients were categorized into two groups according to HBV replication activity at the curative treatment of HBV-related HCC (group 1: patients who met the AVT indication for HBV-related HCC due to detectable HBV DNA but did not meet the AVT indication if without HCC; group 2: patients who met the AVT indication, regardless of HCC).

Results

In the entire cohort (n = 911), HCC recurred in 303 (33.3%) patients during a median follow-up of 4.7 years. After multivariate adjustment, group 2 showed a statistically similar risk of HCC recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.18, P = 0.332) compared to that of group 1. In addition, group 2 showed statistically similar risks of early (< 2 years; aHR = 1.31) and late (≥ 2 years; aHR = 0.83) recurrence than that of group 1 (all P>0.05). Propensity score matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis also yielded similar risks of HCC recurrence between the two groups (all P>0.05, log-rank tests).

Conclusions

The risk of HCC recurrence in patients who received curative treatment for newly diagnosed HBV-related HCC was similar regardless of HBV replication activity, if AVT was properly initiated.
Identifying and prioritizing recommendations to optimize transitions across the care journey for hip fractures: Results from a mixed-methods concept mapping study
Authors: Guilcher Sara J. T. , Cadel Lauren , Everall Amanda C. , Bronskill Susan E. , Wodchis Walter P. , Thavorn Kednapa , Kuluski Kerry
Published: August 2024

Background

Individuals who experience a hip fracture have numerous care transitions. Improving the transition process is important for ensuring quality care; however, little is known about the priorities of different key interest groups. Our aim was to gather recommendations from these groups regarding care transitions for hip fracture.

Methods

We conducted a concept mapping study, inviting persons with lived experience (PWLE) who had a hip fracture, care partners, healthcare providers, and decision-makers to share their thoughts about ‘what is needed to improve care transitions for hip fracture’. Individuals were subsequently asked to sort the generated statements into conceptual piles, and then rate by importance and priority using a five-point scale. Participants decided on the final map, rearranged statements, and assigned a name to each conceptual cluster.

Results

A total of 35 participants took part in this concept mapping study, with some individuals participating in multiple steps. Participants included 22 healthcare providers, 7 care partners, 4 decision-makers, and 2 PWLE. The final map selected by participants was an 8-cluster map, with the following cluster labels: (1) access to inpatient services and supports across the care continuum (13 statements); (2) informed and collaborative discharge planning (13 statements); (3) access to transitional and outpatient services (3 statements); (4) communication, education and knowledge acquisition (9 statements); (5) support for care partners (2 statements); (6) person-centred care (13 statements); (7) physical, social, and cognitive activities and supports (13 statements); and (8) provider knowledge, skills, roles and behaviours (8 statements).

Conclusions

Our study findings highlight the importance of person-centred care, with active involvement of PWLE and their care partners throughout the care journey. Many participant statements included specific ideas related to continuity of care, and clinical knowledge and skills. This study provides insights for future interventions and quality improvement initiatives for enhancing transitions in care among hip fracture populations.
Effectiveness and safety of photobiomodulation therapy in diabetic peripheral neuropathy: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Xuechun , Yan Guanchi , Cao Jingsi , Zhao Yunyun , Wang Ying , Wang Xiuge , Mi Jia
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a widely prevalent complication in patients with type 2 diabetes, exerts a significant influence on patients’ overall health and financial circumstances. Photobiomodulation therapy is one of the means of physical therapy for DPN. Although preliminary findings suggest the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy in alleviating peripheral neuropathy, the existing literature lacks substantial evidence regarding its safety and effectiveness specifically in the context of diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, we plan to arrive at more distinct findings through systematic evaluation and meta-analysis.

Methods

We will conduct a comprehensive search for studies published from the beginning until October 1, 2023, using various databases including Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, AMED, Wanfang database, VIP database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature database. Simultaneously, we will also search for the WHO International Clinical Trial Registration Platform, China Clinical Trial Registration Platform, and Clinical Trials.gov. Gray literature will be retrieved using Google Scholar and opengrey.edu. Only randomized controlled trials in Chinese and English were included, with no restrictions on publication status. The primary outcomes will include change of symptom scores, change of nerve conduction velocity. Additional outcomes will encompass quality of life, change in pain, blood glucose levels after fasting and 2 hours after eating, levels of glycosylated hemoglobin, and any adverse events associated with photobiomodulation therapy. Reman V.5.4 and R language will be used for the meta-analysis. Assessment of potential bias will be conducted through Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool (RoB 2.0) and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Registration: PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42023466586).

Discussion

This meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of photobiomodulation therapy as a potential treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), and providing a straightforward and convenient therapeutic for patients. Additionally, it expands the range of treatment alternatives available to healthcare professionals managing DPN.
Mobile game addiction and its association with musculoskeletal pain among students: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahmed Sohel , Samuel Asir John , Mishra Arushi , Rahman Md Saifur , Islam Md. Ariful , Rashaduzzaman Md. , Roy Shankar Kumar , Akter Rahemun , Islam Mohammad Jahirul
Published: August 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether there is a difference in musculoskeletal pain between those who are addicted to mobile games and those who are not, to ascertain the association between mobile game addiction and socio-demographic variables, and to ascertain the pain predictor for mobile game addiction on different musculoskeletal regions.

Methods

There were 840 students in all, both males and females, in this cross-sectional survey from three distinct Bangladeshi institutions. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, the Gaming Addiction Scale, and the demographic data form were distributed to the participants. The data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and descriptive statistics. Binary logistic regression was used to find the predicted risk factor for mobile gaming addiction.

Results

Musculoskeletal pain affects 52.1% of participants in some part of the body. Males have a 2.01-fold higher likelihood of developing gaming addiction compared to females. Those who are addicted to mobile games experience a higher occurrence of pain in the neck, upper back, elbows, and wrist and hands with a odds ratio of (OR 2.84, 95% CI: 1.49–5.36; p = 0.016), (OR 3.75, 95% CI 1.97–7.12; p = <0.001), (OR 3.38, 95% CI 1.34–8.50; p = 0.010), and (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.00–4.57; p = 0.049) respectively.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that mobile gaming addiction raises students’ risk of musculoskeletal discomfort. Two-three times higher risk of developing pain in the neck, upper back, elbows, and wrist and hands among mobile game addicts.
Vessel trajectory classification via transfer learning with Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Kim Hwan , Choi Mingyu , Park Sekil , Lim Sungsu
Published: August 2024

The classification of vessel trajectories using Automatic Identification System (AIS) data is crucial for ensuring maritime safety and the efficient navigation of ships. The advent of deep learning has brought about more effective classification methods, utilizing Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). However, existing CNN-based approaches primarily focus on either sailing or loitering movement patterns and struggle to capture valuable features and subtle differences between these patterns from input images. In response to these limitations, we firstly introduce a novel framework, Dense121-VMC, based on Deep Convolutional Neural Networks (DCNN) with transfer learning for simultaneous extraction and classification of both sailing and loitering trajectories. Our approach efficiently performs in extracting significant features from input images and in identifying subtle differences in each vessel’s trajectory. Additionally, transfer learning effectively reduces data requirements and addresses the issue of overfitting. Through extended experiments, we demonstrate the novelty of proposed Dense121-VMC framework, achieving notable contributions for vessel trajectory classification.
Association between skin autofluorescence and coronary calcification in the general population
Authors: Boersma Henderikus E. , Xia Congying , van der Klauw Melanie M. , Vonder Marleen , Oudkerk Matthijs , van der Harst Pim , Jan Pelgrim Gert , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , Smit Andries J. , Vliegenthart Rozemarijn
Published: August 2024

Objective

To address the relationship between tissue accumulation of advanced glycation end-products, assessed by skin autofluorescence (SAF), and subclinical atherosclerosis quantified with coronary artery calcium score (CACS) in the general Dutch population.

Methods

A total of 3,839 participants of the LifeLines Cohort Study without diabetes or cardiovascular disease were included in this cross-sectional evaluation. They underwent SAF measurement and cardiac computed tomography to measure CACS. Associations between SAF and CACS was assessed using regression models. Participants at elevated risk for cardiovascular disease were selected by either CACS≥100, or SAF value in the top 15%; overlap and cardiovascular risk profile of these participants were compared.

Results

In univariate analysis, every 1 arbitrary unit (AU) increase in SAF resulted in an odds ratio of 2.91 (95% confidence interval 2.44–3.48, p<0.001) for coronary calcification. After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, there was still 20% higher odds of coronary calcification with 1 AU increase in SAF, but significance was lost. In total, 1025 (27%) participants either had high SAF and/or high CACS, of these 441 (12%) had only high SAF, 450 (12%) had only high CACS and 134 (3%) participants had high SAF and high CACS.

Conclusion

In a population-based Dutch cohort, SAF was associated with the degree of coronary calcification. This association was largely explained by classical cardiovascular risk factors. Limited overlap was found in subgroups with high SAF or high CACS, indicating that SAF and CACS may have complementary role in identifying individuals at elevated cardiovascular risk.
Optimized ensemble deep learning for predictive analysis of student achievement
Authors: Wang Kaitong
Published: August 2024

Education is essential for individuals to lead fulfilling lives and attain greatness by enhancing their value. It improves self-assurance and enables individuals to navigate the complexities of modern society effectively. Despite the obstacles it faces, education continues to develop. The objective of numerous pedagogical approaches is to enhance academic performance. The development of technology, especially artificial intelligence, has caused a significant change in learning. This has made instructional materials available anytime and wherever easily accessible. Higher education institutions are adding technology to conventional teaching strategies to improve learning. This work presents an innovative approach to student performance prediction in educational settings. The strategy combines the DistilBERT with LSTM (DBTM) hybrid approach with the Spotted Hyena Optimizer (SHO) to change parameters. Regarding accuracy, log loss, and execution time, the model significantly improved over earlier models. The challenges presented by the increasing volume of data in graduate and postgraduate programs are effectively addressed by the proposed method. It produces exceptional performance metrics, including a 15-25% decrease in processing time through optimization, 98.7% accuracy, and 0.03% log loss. This work additionally demonstrates the effectiveness of DBTM-SHO in administering extensive datasets and makes an important improvement to educational data mining. It provides a robust foundation for organizations facing the challenges of evaluating student achievement in the era of vast data.
Emergence and expansion of carbapenem resistant enterobacterales in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Moloto Kedišaletše , Newton-Foot Mae , Whitelaw Andrew , Dramowski Angela
Published: August 2024

Background

Carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) have become established as leading pathogens in South African healthcare facilities. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiology of CRE carriage and clinical infection episodes at healthcare facilities in the Western Cape Province of South Africa (2016–2020), and identify factors associated with mortality in CRE infected patients.

Methodology

We used routine data from the Provincial Health Data Centre to track the emergence of CRE in healthcare facilities in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. We included all CRE episodes (clinical and carriage) at Western Cape hospitals (including day and inpatients) from 2016 to 2020 to determine the distribution of CRE, patient demographics and antibiotic resistance phenotypes. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with mortality from clinical CRE episodes.

Results

2242 CRE episodes (1580 [70.5%] clinical and 662 [29.5%] carriage) were identified. From these, 2281 CRE isolates were identified, with Klebsiella species predominating (1644, 72.1%). Affected patients had a median age of 31 (IQR 0–52) years, and 1167 (52.0%) were male. Most CRE episodes were recorded in central hospitals (70.0%, p < 0.001). Where outcome data was available, crude in-hospital mortality rates were 26.9% (371/1379) for CRE clinical episodes versus 6.4% (41/640) for CRE carriage episodes (p < 0.001). Factors that showed a statistically significant association with in-hospital mortality were female sex [adjusted odd ratio (aOR) 1.40 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–1.560)], adult patients [aOR 1.76 (95% CI 1.20–2.57)], CRE isolation from a sterile specimen [aOR 0.41 (95% CI 0.32–0.53)], and >3 days between hospital admission and specimen collection [aOR 1.56 (95% CI 1.11–2.18)]

Conclusions

CRE episodes at Western Cape healthcare facilities are concentrated at tertiary hospitals, with high case fatality rates in patients with clinical CRE episodes. Infection control interventions must be strengthened to reduce transmission of CRE, and to reduce infection risks.
Prevalence and associated risk factors of current hepatitis C infection among U.S. general population and injection drug users aged 20–59 years: NHANES 2009–2018
Authors: Mazumder Harun , Hossain Md Faruk , Shrestha Pratibha , Mahmud Sultan , Husain Maidul , Ahmed Rebeka
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The people who inject drugs (PWID) are attributed to high-risk groups for transmission of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study assessed the prevalence and associated factors of current HCV infection (CHI) among U.S. general population and PWID of ages between 20 and 59 years old.

Methods

This study utilized cross-sectional data from the 2009–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducting separate analyses for the U.S. general population, including PWID and non-PWID, as well as specific analyses focusing solely on PWID. The analytical methods included the estimation of CHI prevalence, Rao-Scott chi-square test to compare CHI-positive and CHI-negative groups, and univariate and multivariable logistic regressions models to evaluate the associated risk factors of CHI.

Results

The prevalence of CHI among general population and PWID were 1% and 19%, respectively. Compared to non-PWID, the odds of CHI were significantly higher among PWID (OR = 32.6, 95% CI = 17.7–60.3) in general population. Among PWID, male vs. female (OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.1–5.9), adults aged 40–59 vs. 20–39 years old (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.2–7.3), Non-Hispanic Black vs. White (OR = 4.6, 95% CI = 1.5–13.6), with high school diploma or less educational attainment vs. above college degree (OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.4–9.2) showed higher odds of having CHI.

Conclusion

The prevalence of CHI was found to be higher among PWID especially those who were male, aged 40–59 years old, Non-Hispanic Black, and had lower educational attainment. Targeted intervention such as screening and awareness program among PWID population is recommended to reduce the burden of new HCV infections in the U.S.
An approach to integrated management of diabetes in tuberculosis patients: Availability and readiness of the health facilities of Bangladesh
Authors: Rafi Md. Abdur , Semanta Senjuti , Shahriar Tasnim , Hasan Mohammad Jahid , Hossain Md. Golam
Published: August 2024

Background

Comorbidity of diabetes mellitus and tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern in low- and middle-income countries including Bangladesh. An integrated approach is required for adequate management of diabetes mellitus and TB. The objective of the present study was to investigate the availability and readiness of the TB care centers of Bangladesh toward diabetic patients’ management.

Methods

The present study was conducted based on existing data obtained from the Bangladesh Health Facility Survey (BHFS) 2017. Data collected from a total of 303 facilities providing TB services were retrieved. The outcome variables of the present study were availability and readiness of the TB health facilities for providing diabetes mellitus service. Readiness was measured for four domains: staff and guidelines, equipment, diagnostic facility and basic medicine. The independent variables were: facility level, management authority and location of the facility. Binary and multiple logistic regression models were constructed for both the outcome variables (availability and readiness) to find out their predictors.

Results

Services for diabetes mellitus were available in 68% of the TB facilities while high readiness was present in 36% of the facilities. For domain-specific readiness index, readiness for the domains of staff and guidelines, equipment, diagnostic facility and basic medicine was reported in 46%, 96%, 38% and 25% facilities respectively. In the logistic regression model, availability of diabetes mellitus services was better in primary level (aOR 2.62, 95% CI 1.78–4.77) and secondary level (aOR 3.26, 95% CI 1.82–9.05) facilities than community facilities. Similarly, readiness of diabetes mellitus care was also better in these facilities (aOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.05–4.71 for primary and aOR 2.75, 95% CI 1.80–4.32 for secondary facilities). Besides, private TB facilities had better availability (aOR 2.84, 95% CI 1.75–5.89) and readiness (aOR 2.52, 95% CI 1.32–4.29) for diabetes mellitus care.

Conclusion

Availability and readiness for providing diabetes mellitus services in TB care providing facilities in Bangladesh is inadequate.
Classification of SARS-CoV-2 sequences as recombinants via a pre-trained CNN and identification of a mathematical signature relative to recombinant feature at Spike, via interpretability
Authors: Guerrero-Tamayo Ana , Sanz Urquijo Borja , Olivares Isabel , Moragues Tosantos María-Dolores , Casado Concepción , Pastor-López Iker
Published: August 2024

The global impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has underscored the need for a deeper understanding of viral evolution to anticipate new viruses or variants. Genetic recombination is a fundamental mechanism in viral evolution, yet it remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive research on the genetic regions associated with genetic recombination features in SARS-CoV-2. With this aim, we implemented a two-phase transfer learning approach using genomic spectrograms of complete SARS-CoV-2 sequences. In the first phase, we utilized a pre-trained VGG-16 model with genomic spectrograms of HIV-1, and in the second phase, we applied HIV-1 VGG-16 model to SARS-CoV-2 spectrograms. The identification of key recombination hot zones was achieved using the Grad-CAM interpretability tool, and the results were analyzed by mathematical and image processing techniques. Our findings unequivocally identify the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein (S protein) as the pivotal region in the genetic recombination feature. For non-recombinant sequences, the relevant frequencies clustered around 1/6 and 1/12. In recombinant sequences, the sharp prominence of the main hot zone in the Spike protein prominently indicated a frequency of 1/6. These findings suggest that in the arithmetic series, every 6 nucleotides (two triplets) in S may encode crucial information, potentially concealing essential details about viral characteristics, in this case, recombinant feature of a SARS-CoV-2 genetic sequence. This insight further underscores the potential presence of multifaceted information within the genome, including mathematical signatures that define an organism’s unique attributes.
Social facilitation of trotting: Can horses perceive and adapt to the movement of another horse?
Authors: Bogossian Paulo Moreira , Pereira Juliana Santos , da Silva Nathalia Felicio , Hilgert Ayrton Rodrigo , Seidel Sarah Raphaela Torquato , Fülber Joice , Belli Carla Bargi , Fernandes Wilson Roberto
Published: August 2024

Exercise intensity is prone to be self-regulated in horses exercising freely. The main drivers include social, feeding and escape behaviors, as well as the operant conditioning. We hypothesized that self-regulated exercise intensity may increase due to the presence of another horse exercising ahead. Seven horses were assigned to a 2x2 crossover trial following treadmill familiarization. Video images of a trotting horse were displayed on the wall in front of the experimental unit (Visual), which was positioned in the treadmill. Physiological and behavioral markers were further compared with a control visual stimulus (Co), comprising a racetrack image without horses. Horses were sampled during a constant load exercise test (1) at rest (baseline), (2) after the warm-up (0 – 10th minute) and (3) after visual stimulation or control (10th– 12th minutes of the SET) to quantify plasma lactate and glucose concentration, heart rate, head angle, as well as behavioral markers. Following visual stimulation, heart rate (130.8 ± 27.8 b.p.m.) was higher than control (84.7 ± 15.1 b.p.m., P = .017), as was plasma lactate (Visual ‐ 5.28 ± 1.48 mg/dl; Co -3.27 ± 1.24 mg/dl, P = .042) and head angle (Visual ‐ 36.43 ± 3.69°; Co -25.14 ± 4.88°, P = .003). The prevalence of “ears forward” behavior was also higher following Visual (100% - 7/7) than Co (14% - 1/7, P = .004). These results suggest that visual stimulus (1) was safe and well tolerated and (2) prompted the anaerobic lactic pathways and shifted the behavior to a vigilant state. In conclusion, horses were able to perceive and adapt to a social environment. Our findings validate the use of social facilitation of trotting to encourage horses to move forward avoiding the use of the whip.
Treatment of Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Stibbs Peter , Tummala Dhruv , Lee Brian , Willet Chris , Holm Jennifer
Published: August 2024

In recent years, advancements in medical technology and materials science have introduced potential alternatives to open fasciotomy that aim to reduce these complications. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review on the treatment of compartment syndrome, focusing on innovative approaches that include minimally invasive techniques such as endoscopic-assisted fasciotomy and percutaneous needle fasciotomy. These methods offer the promise of effective decompression with reduced tissue trauma and improved cosmetic outcomes.
Finger switch type hand shaking sensor for VR-HMD
Authors: ogata yoichi
Published: August 2024

Wearing a virtual reality head mounted display (VR-HMD) provides a closed space for a user, resulting in an enhancement of their immersive sense. However, the user is unable to see anything in their front. In such a situation, the user might hit objects in the VR room, which can be dangerous. To avoid this situation, a simple sensor device can be integrated into the VR-HMD. In this study, an attempt has been made to fabricate a finger-switch-type hand sensor device and integrate it into the VR-HMD. By shaking one’s hand, the user can determine the positions of objects shown on the VR display, and thus avoid bumping into them. Furthermore, by folding their finger, the function of turning off the light source has been added to the device. Consequently, the user can play the VR game comfortably.
Varices at Choledochojejunostomy Site as the Elusive Gastrointestinal Bleeding Source in a Post-Whipple Patient
Authors: Veasaw Kassidy , Poltiyelova Elona , Lin Zilan , Kumar Anila , Pais Shireen
Published: August 2024

Ectopic varices are portosystemic collaterals that form outside the esophagogastric region. If left untreated, they can carry a high mortality rate. Although ectopic variceal bleeding occurs rarely, it continues to pose both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges and remains an under-recognized source of gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. We present a case of GI bleeding from varices formed at the choledochojejunosomy site in a post-Whipple patient. This case describes the rare finding of ectopic varices after pancreaticoduodenectomy, emphasizes the challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach managing GI bleeding in this patient population.
Organización del trabajo en el tambo
Authors: Vignolo Maria Victoria , Gastaldi Laura , Galetto Alejandro , Rossini Gustavo
Published: August 2024

Ante el crecimiento del tamaño de los tambos, el aumento de la mano de obra contratada, y considerando su importancia en los resultados de la actividad, a partir de la Teoría de la Agencia, se postuló la hipótesis de que el aumento del tamaño de los establecimientos propicia la separación entre la propiedad y el control, originando problemas de agencia y en la organización interna de los establecimientos lecheros. El objetivo fue describir y relacionar la arquitectura organizacional de los establecimientos de la región pampeana argentina con su tamaño e identificar problemas de agencia. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, de corte transversal a partir de la Encuesta Sectorial Lechera 2016-2017 del INTA sobre un total de 163 entrevistas personales a responsables de tambos de la región pampeana. La hipótesis se confirmó parcialmente, ya que el aumento del tamaño propicia la separación de la propiedad y la administración de tareas del ordeñe y alimentación, pero no de la gestión económica. Al aumentar el número de vacas totales, aumentaron los costos y problemas de agencia, aunque existió una toma de decisiones que acompañó el conocimiento específico en el ordeñe y la alimentación. A mayor tamaño, mejoraron los mecanismos de asignación de tareas, los incentivos económicos y no económicos, así como el control sobre el proceso productivo, aunque no sobre el desempeño del personal. Es imprescindible ir ajustando la arquitectura organizacional con el aumento de escala y, mayor mano de obra contratada y no mantenerla en el tiempo.
contribución de las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicación en la Tecnicatura en Administración de Empresas Agropecuarias
Authors: Suero Marta María , Brizi María Cecilia , Regis Anselmo Gabriel
Published: August 2024

Las nuevas tendencias en los negocios agro-bio-industriales, requieren de profesionales que sepan desempeñarse en un entorno altamente competitivo. La formación y gestión de recursos humanos son vitales para impulsar el cambio tecnológico y la competitividad empresarial. El objetivo de este trabajo es identificar los beneficios proporcionados por las TIC en la enseñanza de la Tecnicatura en Administración de Empresas agropecuarias (TAEA). El enfoque metodológico cualitativo utilizado se basó principalmente en entrevistas a estudiantes de la carrera que defendieron el trabajo final de la misma durante el período 2018 a 2022, evidenciando el impacto positivo de las TIC en el desempeño laboral de los graduados. Los resultados destacan que la modalidad de educación a distancia basada en las TIC ha permitido a los estudiantes, incluyendo a aquellos provenientes de áreas rurales, a acceder a la educación universitaria. Esta integración ha promovido el trabajo colaborativo entre estudiantes y ha estimulado un aprendizaje significativo. La gran mayoría de los egresados mencionaron haber obtenido un ascenso en su trabajo actual o un nuevo trabajo con mayores oportunidades de crecimiento personal, generaron valor en las organizaciones a donde se desempeñan, gestionaron emprendimientos productivos. Se concluye resaltando la importancia de preparar a los estudiantes con habilidades tecnológicas y de trabajo en equipo, satisfaciendo así la creciente demanda de profesionales en las empresas agrarias.
Susceptibilidad a Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis de los cultivares de nogal, Chandler y Franquette, con y sin tratamiento químico en Argentina
Authors: Chorolque Amelia , Pozzo Ardizzi María Cristina , Hernández Luis Francisco , Gajardo Omar Ariel , Avilés Lucrecia María
Published: August 2024

Xanthomonas arboricola pv. juglandis es la bacteria responsable de la principal enfermedad del nogal. Se evaluó la susceptibilidad de la bacteriosis en los cultivares Chandler y Franquette, en dos situaciones: con y sin tratamientos químicos en el Valle Inferior de Río Negro. En la temporada 2016/17 no se aplicaron tratamientos preventivos, mientras que en la temporada 2017/18 se realizaron 5 aplicaciones con productos cúpricos y mancozeb. Se registró en ambas temporadas en el mes de marzo, la incidencia y la severidad de la enfermedad en hojas y frutos. Los dos cultivares presentaron similares porcentajes (80 %) de incidencia de la enfermedad en hojas en la primera temporada (2016/17); en la segunda temporada (2017/18), la incidencia fue menor en Franquette, diferenciándose de Chandler (p = 0,0089). En ambas temporadas, Franquette presentó una menor incidencia de la enfermedad en frutos (2016/17: p = 0,0161 y 2017/18: p = 0,0415). La severidad de la enfermedad en hojas, independientemente de las aplicaciones preventivas, fue mayor en Chandler (2016/17: p < 0,0001 y 2017/18: p = 0,0066). La severidad de la enfermedad en frutos fue menor en Franquette en ambas temporadas (2016/17: p = 0,0037 y 2017/18: p = 0,0015). La severidad en frutos, en los dos cultivares fue menor en la segunda temporada. La incidencia de la enfermedad en los dos cultivares fue elevada, sin embargo, cuando se analiza la severidad en ambas temporadas, el grado de afectación es diferente, presentando un menor avance del patógeno en las hojas y en los frutos del cv. Franquette.
Assessment of the genetic structure of two different tomato breeding populations by Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Vitelleschi María Susana , Pratta Guillermo Raul
Published: August 2024

In Plant Breeding, different populations are generated, which frequently represent different gene arrangement from a common selected gene pool. The technique of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been widely applied to evaluate the genetic structure of different populations. The objective of this research was to assess PCA for evaluating the genetic structure of two breeding tomato populations, one representing a final step of a breeding program (RIL population) and the other, an initial step (a six basic generations’ population, composed by two homozygous parent, their heterozygous F1 and the segregating F2 and two backcrosses). Both populations were evaluated for phenotypic quantitative traits and population structure was assessed in terms of variances and covariances. PCA was adequate for evaluating differences in genetic structure for evaluated fruit quality traits in both populations.
Burocracias institucionales en la titulación de quilombos en el Estado de Río de Janeiro
Authors: Pimentel Brandão Jairo , Bezerra de Lima Maria Socorro
Published: August 2024

Este artículo analiza el papel de las instituciones estatales en el proceso de regularización de tierras de las comunidades quilombolas en el Estado de Río de Janeiro, Brasil, tomando como objeto de análisis la comunidad Campinho da Independência, en el municipio de Paraty. Los quilombolas son pueblos descendientes de esclavos que obtuvieron el derecho a la tierra a partir de la Constitución Federal brasileña, promulgada en 1988. A pesar de los 35 años de la Constitución Federal, en el Estado de Río de Janeiro están reconocidas —según datos oficiales— 43 comunidades quilombolas y solo tres comunidades tuvieron sus tierras tituladas y reconocidas por el Estado brasileño. Aquí buscamos explicar el papel de cada institución y cómo se otorgó el título a esta comunidad, la legislación aplicable y los desarrollos procesales para su titulación. A través del análisis documental de los procesos se estudiaron las opiniones emitidas por organismos del Estado y agentes públicos. Se encontró que las burocracias estatales funcionan, a pesar de sus innovaciones institucionales, como instrumentos administrativos y legales que revelan relaciones de poder y pueden inhibir e incluso interrumpir el acceso a la tierra y los derechos territoriales de las comunidades quilombolas restantes. Con esto comprobamos que la lentitud institucional en este proceso se debió a la falta de definición sobre el método adecuado de titulación de las comunidades quilombolas en ese momento, ya que aún no existía una regulación para tal procedimiento.