bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing knowledge of hypertension and diabetes mellitus among informal healthcare providers in urban slums in southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Mbachu Chinyere Ojiugo , Arize Ifeyinwa , Obi Chinelo , Ebenso Bassey , Elsey Helen , Onwujekwe Obinna
Published: July 2024

Informal healthcare providers (IHPs) often serve as the first point of contact for healthcare services for non-communicable diseases in urban slums and their ability to identify risk factors and symptoms of the diseases is crucial for early detection and management. This paper assesses level of knowledge of hypertension and diabetes mellitus (DM) among IHPs. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in eight slums in Enugu and Onitsha cities in south-eastern Nigeria. Data was collected from 238 IHPs including patent medicine vendors, traditional birth attendants, traditional bonesetters, and herbalists. Knowledge scores were computed for each respondent. Adequate knowledge was set at ≥ 50% score and inadequate knowledge at < 50%. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors/independent variables associated with adequate knowledge among IHPs. Independent variables in the regression model were seven items that describe the profile of IHPs and can influence their access to information on non-communicable diseases. Knowledge of risk factors and symptoms of hypertension and DM among IHPs was low since only 21 (8.82%) and 19 (7.98%) of them had adequate knowledge of hypertension and DM, respectively. In regression analysis, IHPs who had received formal training in the past demonstrated significantly higher levels of knowledge, with odds of adequate knowledge in hypertension being 14.62 times greater for trained providers, and the odds of adequate knowledge of both non-communicable diseases being 21.34 times greater for trained providers. Training of IHPs is needed to address the critical knowledge deficit of risk factors and symptoms of hypertension and DM. This would contribute to better health outcomes and reduced disease burden in urban slums.
Designing and expression of novel recombinant fusion protein for efficient antigen screening of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Vidyasagar G. Vinaya Chandu , Reddy P. V. Janardhan , Ghouse M. Md. , Venkateswarulu T. C. , Kishor P. B. Kavi , Suravajhala Prashanth , Polavarapu Rathnagiri
Published: July 2024

Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), claimed millions globally. After the report of the first incidence of the virus, variants emerged with each posing a unique threat than its predecessors. Though many advanced diagnostic assays like real-time PCR are available for screening of SARS-CoV-2, their applications are being hindered because of accessibility and cost. With the advent of rapid assays for antigenic screening of SARS-CoV-2 made diagnostics far easy as the assays are rapid, cost-effective and can be used at point-of-care settings. In the present study, a fusion construct was made utilising highly immunogenic B cell epitopes from the three important structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2. The protein was expressed; purified capture mAbs generated and rapid antigen assay was developed. Eight hundred and forty nasopharyngeal swab samples were screened for the evaluation of the developed assay which showed 37.14% positivity, 96.51% and 100% sensitivity and specificity respectively. The assay developed was supposed to identify SARS-CoV-2 wild-type as well as variants of concern and variants of importance in real-time conditions.
The influence of PER3 VNTR genotypes on the age of onset in a group of bipolar I disorder patients: an exploratory study
Authors: Barlattani Tommaso , Soltmann Bettina , D’Amelio Chiara , Socci Valentina , Pacitti Francesca , Pompili Maurizio , Ritter Philipp
Published: July 2024

Background

PER3 is a circadian gene that contains a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) which codifies for three genotypes: 4/4; 4/5; and 5/5 and is involved in non-visual response to light, a critical process associated with bipolar disorder onset. Benedetti et al. (Neurosci Lett 445(2):184–7) related this VNTR with bipolar disorder age of onset and linked genotype 5/5 with an earlier onset. In this study, we aimed to investigate these associations of PER3 VNTR genotypes with age of onset in a homogenous sample of German patients with bipolar I disorder through Kaplan-Meier curves.

Methods

45 patients were enrolled and divided into three groups according to PER3 VNTR genotypes. Recognizing common biological features, we built a combined group of -5 allele carriers (4/5 + 5/5). As a primary outcome, Kaplan-Meier analysis was conducted to delineate the three genotypes’ influence on age of onset. The secondary Kaplan-Meier analysis aimed to evaluate the relation between the 4/4 homozygotes group and the combined group (4/5 + 5/5) with age of onset. Finally, we proceeded to compare groups through a Log Rank Test and performed an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results

The Kaplan-Meier analysis with three separate genotypes didn’t replicate the findings of Benedetti’s study. The analysis comparing genotype 4/4 with the combined group showed the influence of PER3 VNTR variants on the age of onset and relates genotype 4/4 to an earlier onset. ANCOVA between the combined and the 4/4 genotype groups, correlated genotype 4/4 with an increased number of depressive episodes.

Conclusion

This study showed no significant effect of PER3 VNTR genotypes on the age of onset and in linking genotype 5/5 with an earlier onset age. Contrasting results may arise from intrinsic differences between the two studies but also shed light on hypothetically different levels of functioning of PER3 VNTR genotypes in the context of bipolar pathology. Further studies will require bigger and more homogeneous clinical samples.
Bacteria extracellular vesicle as nanopharmaceuticals for versatile biomedical potential
Authors: Ho Ming Yao , Liu Songhan , Xing Bengang
Published: July 2024

Bacteria extracellular vesicles (BEVs), characterized as the lipid bilayer membrane-surrounded nanoparticles filled with molecular cargo from parent cells, play fundamental roles in the bacteria growth and pathogenesis, as well as facilitating essential interaction between bacteria and host systems. Notably, benefiting from their unique biological functions, BEVs hold great promise as novel nanopharmaceuticals for diverse biomedical potential, attracting significant interest from both industry and academia. Typically, BEVs are evaluated as promising drug delivery platforms, on account of their intrinsic cell-targeting capability, ease of versatile cargo engineering, and capability to penetrate physiological barriers. Moreover, attributing to considerable intrinsic immunogenicity, BEVs are able to interact with the host immune system to boost immunotherapy as the novel nanovaccine against a wide range of diseases. Towards these significant directions, in this review, we elucidate the nature of BEVs and their role in activating host immune response for a better understanding of BEV-based nanopharmaceuticals’ development. Additionally, we also systematically summarize recent advances in BEVs for achieving the target delivery of genetic material, therapeutic agents, and functional materials. Furthermore, vaccination strategies using BEVs are carefully covered, illustrating their flexible therapeutic potential in combating bacterial infections, viral infections, and cancer. Finally, the current hurdles and further outlook of these BEV-based nanopharmaceuticals will also be provided.

Graphical Abstract
Employing technology-enhanced feedback and scaffolding to support the development of deep science understanding using computer simulations
Authors: Kaldaras Leonora , Wang Karen D. , Nardo Jocelyn E. , Price Argenta , Perkins Katherine , Wieman Carl , Salehi Shima
Published: July 2024

Constructivist learning theories consider deep understanding of the content to be the result of engagement in relevant learning activities with appropriate scaffolding that provides the learner with timely and substantive feedback. However, any group of students has a variety of levels of knowledge and cognitive development, which makes providing appropriate individual-level scaffolding and feedback challenging in the classroom. Computer simulations can help meet this challenge by providing technology-enhanced embedded scaffolding and feedback via specific simulation design. The use of computer simulations does not, however, guarantee development of deep science understanding. Careful research-driven design of the simulation and the accompanying teaching structure both play critical roles in achieving the desired learning outcomes. In this paper, we discuss the capabilities of computer simulations and the issues that can impact the learning outcomes when combining technology-enhanced scaffolding and feedback with external teaching structures. We conclude with suggestions of promising research avenues on simulation design and their use in the classroom to help students achieve deep science understanding.
Simultaneous cannabis and psychedelic use among festival and concert attendees in Colorado: characterizing enhancement and adverse reactions using mixed methods
Authors: Piercey Cianna J. , Hetelekides Eleftherios , Karoly Hollis C.
Published: July 2024

Background

Most studies examining the simultaneous use of cannabis with other drugs have focused on cannabis and alcohol, with fewer studies examining simultaneous use of cannabis with other drugs. The United States is currently experiencing an upward trend in psychedelic use and there is an increasing need to characterize cannabis and psychedelic drug interactions to best inform public health recommendations.

Materials and Methods

A mixed methods field study design was used to survey participants (N = 128) on their lifetime co-use of cannabis with other drugs. Participants who reported lifetime co-use of cannabis and psychedelics (N = 63) were then asked open-ended questions about their most recent simultaneous co-use experience (i.e., how cannabis enhanced their psychedelic experience and whether they experienced any adverse reactions). We conducted a thematic analysis of responses describing how cannabis enhanced the psychedelic experience (N = 54). However, due to low response rate for participants reporting an adverse reaction (N = 7, 11.1%), responses to this question were not analyzed thematically and are instead presented individually.

Results

Themes included tension reduction and balancing of drug effects (N = 27, 50%), enhancement to psychological processes (N = 11, 20.4%), intensified psychedelic drug effects (N = 12, 22.2%), enhanced psychedelic come-down experience (N = 8, 14.8%), and overall ambiguous enhancement (N = 7, 13%). Among participants reporting an adverse reaction, individual responses included increased anxiety and intensity of the experience, decreased sociability, increased negative affect, sleepiness, disassociation, and confusion.

Conclusion

Additional research is warranted to better characterize cannabis and psychedelic drug interactions to best inform public health recommendations.
Misconceptions about trigger finger: a scoping review. Definition, pathophysiology, site of lesion, etiology. Trigger finger solving a maze
Authors: Shohda Eslam , Sheta Reda Ali
Published: July 2024

Trigger finger (TF) is a disorder characterized by snapping or locking a finger. It has a prevalence of greater than 3% in the general population; however, this estimate could be increased to 5% up to 20% in diabetic patients. Some unreal ambiguity about definition, pathophysiology, site of lesion, and etiology are found among researchers and clinicians, leading to a lack of understanding of all aspects of the disease and improper management as many clinicians proceed to anti-inflammatory medications or steroids injection without in-depth patient evaluation. Original articles cited up to 2022, found through a Google search using the specified keywords, have been used in this review. Close-access articles were accessed through our researcher account with the Egyptian Knowledge Bank. In this review, we will focus on pathophysiology to present all possible findings and etiology to represent all risk factors and associated diseases to assess and confirm a diagnosis and the exact location of pathology hence better treatment modalities and reducing the recurrence of the pathology.
Risk assessment models for development of carpal tunnel syndrome: clinical, anthropometric, and neuromuscular ultrasound predictors
Authors: El-Sherif Sherine Mahmoud , Hassan Nermin Muhammad , Eltantawi Gihan A. Younis , Abdelfattah Yousra Hisham
Published: July 2024

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy with multifactorial etiologies. We intended in this case–control study to identify, out of a comprehensive set of risk factors, the relatively important ones and develop a quantitative risk assessment model for this disorder. It was also legitimate to define the hazard of those factors in a dose-related manner and the acceptable safe limit especially for work-related stresses.

Results

Age and female predominance were comparable between the 60 patients (89 hands with electrophysiologically confirmed CTS) and 50 controls (100 hands). Occupation of the studied sample varied between housewives only, employed housewives, and manual workers with a distribution that differed significantly between patients and controls. Significantly higher body mass index (BMI) and mean wrist depth were found in patients than controls. Wrist ratio (clinically or sonographically) was significantly squarer in patients than controls. Overall workload and number of hours spent daily performing work with repeated hand movements or awkward hand position were significantly higher among patients than controls.

ROC curves were constructed for wrist measurements and occupational stresses. Cut-off points of wrist ratio and internal carpal tunnel ratio (by ultrasound) to discriminate subjects with CTS were > 0.68 and ≤ 1.854, respectively. The best cut-off value for number of hours spent daily performing work with repeated hand movements was 3 h/ day. As for working with awkward hand position or cold exposure, cut-off value was 0.6 h/day for both.

Two logistic regression models were conducted to investigate nonoccupational and occupational predictors of CTS. The independent predictors concluded from the first model were BMI, positive family history of CTS, wrist ratio, and decrease grip strength. As for the occupational model, predictors were tasks requiring awkward hand position and cold exposure.

Conclusion

Occupational risk assessment by clinical, anthropometric, and ultrasonographic measurement should be used in professions requiring repetitive or awkward hand movements, so that in overweight persons with square wrists appropriate workplace setup measures or assistive technology at work or home could be taken to prevent or decrease the impact of work hazards or help choose individuals with low risk for appropriate jobs.
Two-to-One Randomization: Rarely Advisable
Authors: Freidlin Boris , Korn Edward L.
Published: July 2024

In a randomized clinical trial, instead of allocating patients equally between the treatment arms, some trials in oncology assign a higher proportion of patients to receive the experimental treatment arm (eg, a two-to-one randomization). In this commentary, we first briefly review the common reasons given for the use of a two-to-one randomization and provide some examples of trials using these designs. We then explain why the risk-benefit ratio of this approach may not be favorable as is commonly assumed.
Phase II Trial of Afatinib in Patients With EGFR-Mutated Solid Tumors Excluding Lung Cancer: Results From NCI-MATCH ECOG-ACRIN Trial (EAY131) Subprotocol A
Authors: Gettinger Scott N. , Song Zihe , Reckamp Karen L. , Moscow Jeffrey A. , Gray Robert J. , Wang Victoria , McShane Lisa M. , Rubinstein Larry V. , Patton David R. , Williams P. Mickey , Hamilton Stanley R. , Kong Xiao-Tang , Tricoli James V. , Conley Barbara A. , Arteaga Carlos L. , Harris Lyndsay N. , O'Dwyer Peter J. , Chen Alice P. , Flaherty Keith T.
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

National Cancer Institute–Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (NCI-MATCH) was a multicohort phase 2 trial that assigned patients with advanced pretreated cancers to molecularly targeted therapies on the basis of tumor genomic testing. NCI-MATCH Arm A evaluated afatinib, an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for advanced non–small cell lung cancer, in patients with tumors other than lung cancer harboring EGFR mutations.

METHODS

Patients with advanced pretreated cancers other than lung cancer found to have selected actionable EGFR mutations were offered participation in Arm A. Previous therapy with an EGFR TKI was not allowed. Patients received afatinib 40 mg once daily continuously until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR). Secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS), 6-month PFS, and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Seventeen patients received protocol therapy. Tumor types included glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) (13), gliosarcoma (1), adenocarcinoma not otherwise specified (NOS) (2), and adenosquamous carcinoma of the breast (1). Fifty-nine percent of patients received ≥2 lines of previous therapy. The ORR was 11.8% (90% CI, 2.1 to 32.6), with one complete response lasting 16.4 months (GBM harboring a rare exon 18 EGFR-SEPT14 fusion) and one partial response lasting 12.8 months (adenocarcinoma NOS with the classic EGFR mutation, p.Glu746_Ala750del). Three patients had stable disease. The 6-month PFS was 15% (90% CI, 0 to 30.7); the median OS was 9 months (90% CI, 4.6 to 14.0). Rash and diarrhea were the most common toxicities.

CONCLUSION

Afatinib had modest activity in a cohort of patients with heavily pretreated cancer with advanced nonlung, EGFR-mutated tumors, but the trial's primary end point was not met. Further evaluation of afatinib in GBM with EGFR exon 18 fusions may be of interest.
Opioid-Obviating Analgesia for Adolescent Multilevel Spinal Fusion Surgery: A Problem-Based Learning Discussion
Authors: Desai Amruta , Razak Alina , Ghaly Lamberta , Bennici Lesley , Moore Robert
Published: July 2024

A female teenager with a history of polysubstance use, including a recent overdose, is scheduled for multilevel posterior spinal fusion surgery due to idiopathic scoliosis and has asked to avoid the use of opioids in the context of her upcoming surgery. This problem-based learning discussion (PBLD) focuses on the examination of the care of a spinal fusion patient that allowed for the successful provision of opioid-obviating care.
The Effects of the 2021 Child Tax Credit on Housing Affordability and the Living Arrangements of Families With Low Incomes
Authors: Pilkauskas Natasha V. , Michelmore Katherine , Kovski Nicole
Published: July 2024

Access to safe and stable housing is important for child and adult well-being. Yet many low-income households face severe challenges in maintaining stable housing. In this article, we examine the impact of the 2021 temporary expansion to the Child Tax Credit (CTC) on housing affordability and the living arrangements of families with low incomes. We employ a parameterized difference-in-differences method and leverage national data from a sample of parents who are receiving or recently received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits (N = ∼20,500), many of whom became newly eligible for the CTC. We find that the monthly CTC reduced parents’ past-due rent/mortgages (both amounts and incidence) and their reports of potential moves due to difficulties affording rent/mortgages. The CTC increased the likelihood that parents reported a change in their living arrangements and reduced their household size, both effects driven by fewer mothers living with a partner (and not a reduction in doubling up). We find some differences in effects by race and ethnicity and earnings. Our findings illustrate that the monthly credit improved low-income parents’ ability to afford housing, gain residential independence from partners, and reduce the number of people residing in their household.
The Role of Self-directed Learning in Promoting Deep Learning Processes: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: RUI LI , MOHAMAD NASRI NURFARADILLA , MAHMUD SITI NUR DIYANA”
Published: July 2024

In current educational research, deep learning is widely considered a key approach to fostering the development of students’ comprehensive abilities. However, effectively promoting deep learning, especially across various educational settings, remains a challenge. Especially in the context of Self-Directed Learning (SDL) environments, current research does not specifically detail how SDL facilitates the deep learning process or how students experience and achieve deep learning within SDL environments. Addressing this research gap, this study explores the promotional effect of SDL on deep learning through a systematic literature review and analyzes how self-directed learning strategies and environments support the deep learning process of students. This article, based on Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and meta-cognitive theory, delves into the intrinsic factors and external conditions under SDL environments that promote deep learning. The research found that self-directed learning significantly promotes deep learning by fostering students’ active participation, self-management, and the development of metacognitive skills. Students’ interests and intrinsic motivation, along with reflective and evaluative activities, play a crucial role in deepening the understanding of knowledge. The effective use of technology provides the necessary support for self-directed learning, further facilitating students’ deep learning. Despite the close relationship between SDL and deep learning, effectively integrating these two modes of learning within today’s educational environment remains a challenge. The future requires educators to continue exploring innovative teaching methods and learning environments to promote the effective integration of SDL and deep learning, thereby improving the quality of education to meet future challenges.
Rejoice architecture meets social norms to accelerate vaccination in Nepal: Protocol for a mixed-method quasi-experimental study
Authors: Paul Alicia , Upreti Kamana , Nepal Shraddha , Lohani Jeevan , Adhikari Kriti , Rimal Rajiv
Published: July 2024

Background: Each year, 600,000 children under 5 years old die from vaccine-preventable diseases globally. Immunization is an effective way to prevent many diseases, saving two to three million lives per year. The Nepal National Government recommends vaccinations for all children for 11 diseases by 15 months of age. However, only 78% of children between 1-2 years of age have received all recommended vaccines and only 43% receive them at the age-appropriate times for which they are scheduled.

Objectives: This protocol describes the development of an intervention – called “Rejoice Architecture” – that is informed by three theoretical perspectives: choice architecture, the broken windows theory, and the theory of normative social behavior. We also describe a mixed-methods approach to develop the intervention, which will improve the physical and social environments of health facilities in Makwanpur, Nepal. We hypothesize this intervention will improve immunization behaviors and intentions among mothers of children younger than 2 years, pregnant women, and prospective mothers.

Methods: We describe the qualitative formative assessment to understand existing attitudes, norms, and behaviors among caregivers, healthcare workers, and government representatives. The formative assessment will include in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. We also describe the overall quasi-experimental study design, used to assess intervention impact.

Impact: This study will contribute to the social and behavioral change communication intervention research by offering a novel strategy for increasing immunization. This study will also illustrate to policymakers the value of structural change for health service delivery.
Long-Term Impact of a Medical School Course on the Intersection of Art and Medical History
Authors: Coller Bobbi G. , Slamovits Gabriel , Coller Barry S.
Published: July 2024

Background One recent trend in medical education is the integration of humanities into the curriculum, including viewing works of art in museums, with analysis of short-term, but not long-term, impact. We developed a course for medical students, trainees, and faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai co-taught by an art historian and a physician/medical historian that features images of great works of art to make connections between art and medical history with the following goals: 1. To encourage the students to make careful and systematic observations, describe what they see to others in the group, and exchange their views respectfully, 2. To sensitize students to the patient’s experience of illness by discussing artists’ depictions of patients and the impact of their illness on family and friends, and 3. To highlight milestones in medical history by focusing on artworks that epitomize the state of medical care and science at a defined point in time. We have taught the course for more than a decade and so wanted to assess whether participating in the course had a long-term impact. Methods We created and deployed a five-question survey to 167 students and received responses from 35 of those students. Results 97% of respondents answered that they still think about the course, and large majorities of the respondents indicated that the course, had an impact on how they viewed works of art (91%), their appreciation of the history of medicine (89%), and their observational skills (80%). More than half the students responded that the course sensitized them to the patient’s perspective of illness (63%) and had an impact on how they viewed their role as a physician (51%). Conclusions Our course has had a long-term impact on the respondents across a wide range of professional and personal characteristics.
Concept design, application and optimization of operational parameters for new forced safety injection tank system
Authors: Shah Asad Ullah Amin , Kim Junyung , Mansoor Ali , Kang Hyun Gook
Published: July 2024

Background The engineered safety systems are designed to execute fundamental safety functions encompassing reactivity confinement, reactivity control and decay heat removal. Failure of any one of these functions can result in severe accident conditions. Passive systems have been implemented as a better option for plant safety. This research proposes a modification of existing safety injection tanks to the new forced safety injection tanks (FSITs) that utilize the backpressure from the pressurizer or steam generator to drive coolant into the reactor core under high pressure conditions. Methods FSITs aim to extend the coping-time during accidents like Station Blackout, providing an extended timing window for deployment of FLEX systems. The mathematical design is proposed and implemented into the thermal-hydraulic input of a nuclear power plant to demonstrate the system’s applicability that was demonstrated by leveraging the conventional PRA approach and risk quantification. Results The suggested system useful when used in the accident scenario of Station black out in-coincident with turbine-driven pumps fail to run. As the proposed design is a conceptual design, the optimization of associated operational parameters and set points is necessary. This optimization is performed using the risk analysis and virtual control environment-based Dynamic Probabilistic Risk Assessment framework. The method and findings of this study affirm that the coping-time for Station Blackout can be significantly extended, ensuring a substantial margin for the effective deployment of the FLEX. Conclusions A concept design of a passive forced safety injection system was suggested and demonstrated by integrating the mathematical model into a thermal-hydraulic model of a nuclear power plant. The parameters were optimized and the results demonstrated that the new system was effective in recovering the nuclear power plant from the accidents such as SBO with turbine-driven pumps fail to operate.
Combined effects of the assassin bug alloeocranum biannulipes mont. And sign. (hemiptera: reduviidae) and botanical powders in the control of the stored yam chips beetle, dinoderus porcellus lesne (coleoptera : bostrichidae)
Authors: LOKO Yêyinou Laura Estelle , TOFFA Joelle , DJEGBE Innocent , VODOUNNON Armand , SINZOGAN Antonio , SAHAYARAJ Kitherian , TAMO Manuele
Published: July 2024

Background Dinoderus porcellus Lesne (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) is the main pest of stored dried yam chips that causes significant losses in a few months. The assassin bug, Alloeocranum biannulipes (Montrouzier & Signoret) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) and the Khaya senegalensis (Desv.) A. Juss. (Meliaceae), Blighia sapida K. Koenig (Sapindaceae) and Bridelia ferruginea Benth. (Euphorbiaceae) leaf powders have proven to be efficient in the control of this pest. Methods This study aims to evaluate the compatibility of the leaf powders of these medicinal plants and the predator A. biannulipes in the integrated management of D. porcellus under laboratory and farm conditions. Various leaf powders were tested at a concentration of 6% (w/w) with or without the predator. Yam chips mixed with leaf powder from each species served as negative and those mixed with a synthetic insecticide as positive controls. Results The results revealed that no combination of leaf powders and predators could induce complete mortality of D. porcellus like the synthetic insecticide. No significant difference in terms of the survival of A. biannulipes exposed to botanical powders was observed compared to the positive control. Under farm conditions, B. ferruginea leaf powder showed a sub-lethal effect on the predator A. biannulipes and no impact on the abundance of D. porcellus. However, the survival of D. porcellus was significantly reduced by the combination of K. senegalensis leaf powder and A. biannulipes, which did not allow the reproduction of the predator. Conclusions We recommend the combination of K. senegalensis leaf powder and A. biannulipes for the short-term conservation of yam chips as part of an augmentative biological control program. For long-term conservation, we suggest the use of a combination of B. sapida leaf powder with the predator A. biannulipes because it presented a reduced population of D. porcellus after 8 weeks of storage and offspring of A. biannulipes.
Euclide, the crow, the wolf and the pedestrian: distance metrics for linguistic typology
Authors: Guzmán Naranjo Matías , Jäger Gerhard
Published: July 2024

It is common for people working on linguistic geography, language contact and typology to make use of some type of distance metric between lects. However, most work so far has either used Euclidean distances, or geodesic distance, both of which do not represent the real separation between communities very accurately. This paper presents two datasets: one on walking distances and one on topographic distances between over 8700 lects across all macro-areas. We calculated walking distances using Open Street Maps data, and topographic distances using digital elevation data. We evaluate these distance metrics on three case studies and show that from the four distances, the topographic and geodesic distances showed the most consistent performance across datasets, and would be likely to be reasonable first choices. At the same time, in most cases, the Euclidean distances were not much worse than the other distances, and might be a good enough approximation in cases for which performance is critical, or the dataset cover very large areas, and the point-location information is not very precise.
Railway security checks at the border: between intrusive security technologies and fundamental traveller rights
Authors: Kubrak Kacper , Havârneanu Grigore M.
Published: July 2024

Background European railway borders are facing a particular exposure to security threats and need a delicate securitization and free movement, especially amid globalisation, the current geopolitical landscape and increased migrant flows. For example, the war in Ukraine illustrated the challenges experienced at the Eastern EU borders by the refugee migration surge in early 2022. Methods This paper will focus on the European border security control process from the rail border perspective. It will encompass the lessons learned from the UIC Refugee Task Force as well as insights from the ongoing EU-funded Horizon Europe project ODYSSEUS (Unobtrusive Technologies for Secure and Seamless Border Crossing for Travel Facilitation). Project ODYSSEUS aims to support the security and integrity of the European space, reduce illegal movements of people and goods across EU borders, facilitate travelling for citizens all while protecting fundamental rights of travellers. Results The project will test a combination of multi-behavioural and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliant biometric user identity verification tools, allowing citizens to cross EU border without any interruption or queue. Further, novel luggage and baggage checks will allow citizens’ vehicles and cargos to be remotely checked at land borders to speed up the border check processes in a secure and reliable manner. The project will run three pilot tests at road, rail and water borders. Conclusion In this paper, we analyse the implementation of project’s technologies in the rail border crossing pilot test and discuss the implications for the actors involved in the process of railway border crossing (e.g., border authorities, railway operators and railway travellers).
Prevalence and individual level enablers and barriers for COVID-19 vaccine uptake among adult tuberculosis patients attending selected clinics in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Waqo Boru , Makalliwa George , Musita Caroline
Published: July 2024

Background Although vaccination is impactful public health intervention in curbing the spread of infectious disease, low uptake is a significant concern, especially among high-risk population groups. Nearly half of the population is unvaccinated in Nairobi with highest TB and COVID-19 burden, yet there is dearth of vaccination information on tuberculosis patients. The interplay of several factors influences uptake, and protecting this vulnerable group and the general population from severe disease, hospitalization, and deaths is worthy. The study sought to determine the prevalence and individual level enablers and barriers for COVID-19 vaccine uptake among adult Tuberculosis patients attending selected clinics in Nairobi County, Kenya. Methods This cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted at Tuberculosi clinics across six sub-counties in Nairobi County. It included 388 participants sampled from each clinic’s Tuberculosis register. Quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire, and qualitative data was collected through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages for categorical variables and mean standard deviation for continuous variables) and inferential statistics (logistic regression). Qualitative data was analyzed through deductive coding and thematic analysis. Results The prevalence of COVID-19 vaccination was 46.1%, with 38.1% receiving complete vaccination. Mistrust in vaccine management (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)= 0.075, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.025-0.229, p <0.001) was a significant barrier to COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Perceived covid-19 susceptibility (aOR = 2.901, 95% CI: 1.258-6.688, p = 0.012) and perceived covid-19 seriousness (aOR = 3.294, 95% CI: 1.130-9.604, p = 0.029) were significant enablers of COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Qualitative themes related to individual-level barriers (were fear of side effects, stigma, myths, and mistrust) and enablers (desire to protect others and risk perception). Conclusions Low COVID-19 vaccine prevalence, mistrust as barrier and risk perception as enablers for COVID-19 uptake among TB patients in Nairobi, Kenya.
Enriching Earth observation datasets through semantics for climate change applications: The EIFFEL ontology
Authors: Molina Benjamin , Palau Carlos E. , Calvo-Gallego Jaime
Published: July 2024

Background Earth Observation (EO) datasets have become vital for decision support applications, particularly from open satellite portals that provide extensive historical datasets. These datasets can be integrated with in-situ data to power artificial intelligence mechanisms for accurate forecasting and trend analysis. However, researchers and data scientists face challenges in finding appropriate EO datasets due to inconsistent metadata structures and varied keyword descriptions. This misalignment hinders the discoverability and usability of EO data. Methods To address this challenge, the EIFFEL ontology (EIFF-O) is proposed. EIFF-O introduces taxonomies and ontologies to provide (i) global classification of EO data and (ii) linkage between different datasets through common concepts. The taxonomies specified by the European Association of Remote Sensing Companies (EARSC) have been formalized and implemented in EIFF-O. Additionally, EIFF-O incorporates: 1. An Essential Climate Variable (ECV) ontology, defined by the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS), is embedded and tailored for Climate Change (CC) applications. 2. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) ontology is included to facilitate linking datasets to specific targets. 3. The ontology extends schema.org vocabularies and promotes the use of JavaScript Object Notation for Linked Data (JSON-LD) formats for semantic web integration. Results EIFF-O provides a unified framework that enhances the discoverability, usability, and application of EO datasets. The implementation of EIFF-O allows data providers and users to bridge the gap between varied metadata descriptions and structured classification, thereby facilitating better linkage and integration of EO datasets. Conclusions The EIFFEL ontology represents a significant advancement in the organization and application of EO datasets. By embedding ECV and SDG ontologies and leveraging semantic web technologies, EIFF-O not only streamlines the data discovery process but also supports diverse applications, particularly in Climate Change monitoring and Sustainable Development Goals achievement. The open-source nature of the ontology and its associated tools promotes rapid adoption among developers
How Did Medicare for All Influence Trump’s Electoral Prospects Across Different Levels of COVID-19 Perceived Political Engagement?
Authors: Nkouaga Florent
Published: July 2024

Background The 2020 US presidential election was a pivotal moment in American politics, with the healthcare system taking center stage as a critical issue. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly raised public awareness about the deficiencies of the US healthcare system, leading to increased support for comprehensive healthcare reforms, such as Medicare for All. Methods This study examines the relationship between the pandemic, support for Medicare for All, and voting choices in the 2020 presidential election. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using data from the Collaborative Multi-Racial Post-Election Survey (CMPS) 2020 to explore the impact of support for Medicare for All on voting behavior. The analysis controlled for variables such as partisanship, race, gender, age, education, economic anxiety, and COVID-19 exposure. Results The findings indicate a negative relationship between support for Medicare for All and voting for Donald Trump. This relationship holds true across different levels of perceived COVID-19 political engagement. The analysis demonstrates that increased support for Medicare for All is associated with a decreased likelihood of voting for Trump. This effect is more pronounced among individuals who reported minimal impact of the pandemic on their political engagement. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic brought healthcare issues to the forefront of public discourse, reinforcing existing health policy preferences rather than altering them. The study provides insights into how major crises like the COVID-19 pandemic can influence public attitudes and political outcomes. These findings have significant implications for future healthcare policies and electoral strategies, emphasizing the need to consider both enduring health policy preferences and the situational effects of crises.
A de facto state's struggle for international recognition: The case of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic
Authors: Mormul Joanna , Kłosowicz Robert
Published: July 2024

The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) is a unique example of a de facto state – having existed for almost 50 years and enjoying international recognition provided by over forty states. Nevertheless, it controls only one-fifth of the territory it claims rights to, while the rest of it lies within the Moroccan borders. Since the 1991 ceasefire, the POLISARIO Front – the Sahrawi political representation – has sought international recognition by means of peaceful methods. However, in November 2020 it renewed the conflict, because of the Moroccan activity in the buffer zone near Guerguerat. The article elaborates on the strategies adopted by the SADR to gain international recognition, as well as the Moroccan response in the form of counter-recognition strategies. The study is based on a qualitative analysis of the already-existing sources, a critical reading of the literature on the subject, and qualitative data gathered during study visits to Algeria, Morocco, and Mauritania.
Detection of Mycoplasma pneumoniae in hospitalized children with pneumonia in Laos
Authors: Vilivong Keoudomphone , Mayxay Mayfong , Dance David A.B. , De Lamballerie Xavier , Newton Paul N. , Dubot-Pérès Audrey
Published: July 2024

Mycoplasma pneumoniae has been described worldwide as an important cause of community-acquired pneumonia. From December 2013 to December 2014, 461 children admitted to Mahosot Hospital, Vientiane, Laos, with acute respiratory infection were investigated for upper respiratory microorganisms using probe-based real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (FTD33). M. pneumoniae was detected by FTD33 in the upper respiratory tract of three patients, two girls and one boy, 5.7 and 3.9 years old and 13.6 years old, respectively. They presented with clinical features compatible with M. pneumoniae infection. The two girls were also positive for other potential pathogens. The boy had abnormal pulmonary auscultation, and one of the girls had significant anaemia. These results suggest that enhancement of diagnostic systems for M. pneumoniae detection and analysis of its antibiotic resistance profile is needed to raise awareness and improve understanding of the epidemiology of M. pneumoniae infection in Laos, enable targeted therapy, and inform treatment guidelines.
Phase 2 pilot trial to optimise pharmacometric evaluations in Chagas disease (CHARM: CHAgas disease PharMacometrics)
Authors: Cruz Cintia V. , Watson James A. , Molina Romero Israel , White Nicholas J.
Published: July 2024

Chagas disease is a neglected disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi that currently affects about 7 million people in the Americas and the American diaspora. Only two drugs are available to treat Chagas disease, both are associated with a high incidence of adverse events, particularly in adults, and they are also complex to administer. New treatments are needed urgently, but there is no established method of evaluating new drugs. We describe the study protocol for a pilot phase 2 descriptive observational study of parasite dynamics within the host, followed by a randomised evaluation of the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic properties of subcurative doses of anti-chagasic drugs in patients with chronic Chagas disease. This study is divided into three stages. The general objective of the study is to characterise the dynamics of the parasite within the host at steady state and the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic relationships for each of the three drugs studied. This is based on characterising the structure and parameters of a pharmacodynamic model of parasite turnover within the host. Each stage of the study targets specific key parameters in the pharmacodynamic model of parasite dynamics (both the blood stage and the tissue stage) for individual research participants. The primary outcome measure for all three stages is blood-stage parasite density, measured by quantitative PCR. Upon completion, research participants will receive definitive treatment for Chagas disease in accordance with national guidelines. Registration ISRCTN (ISRCTN26467068; 01/07/2021).
Identification of reference microRNAs in skeletal muscle of a canine model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Riddell Dominique O. , Hildyard John C.W. , Harron Rachel C.M. , Wells Dominic J. , Piercy Richard J.
Published: July 2024

Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle wasting disease caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. DE50-MD dogs are a canine model of DMD used as final translational models for evaluation of promising treatments. MicroRNA (miR) expressions in the muscle of DE50-MD dogs represent potential biomarkers, but stable reference miRs must first be identified. The aim of this paper was to establish a panel of reference miRs for WT and DE50-MD dogs over a range of ages and muscle groups. Methods RNA was extracted from WT and DE50-MD dog (N=6 per genotype) vastus lateralis muscle samples collected longitudinally at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months of age, and from muscles collected post-mortem (N=3 per genotype; cranial tibial, semimembranosus, lateral triceps and diaphragm). 87 RNAs were quantified in a subset of 6-month-old WT and DE50-MD muscles (N=4 per genotype) using the QIAcuity miFinder panel. GeNorm, BestKeeper and Normfinder were used to identify a candidate panel of the 8 most stable small RNAs, which were then quantified in all RNA samples, alongside the commonly used reference RNA snRNA U6. Results The most stable miRs of this subset were used to normalise quantities of dystromiRs miR-1, miR-133a and miR-206, and fibromiR miR-214. MicroRNAs miR-191, let-7b, miR-125a and miR-15a were the most stable miRs tested, while snRNA U6 performed poorly. DystromiR expression, normalised to the geometric mean of the panel of reference miRs, was lower for miR-1 and miR-133a in DE50-MD compared to WT muscles, while miR-206 levels did not significantly differ between genotypes. FibromiR miR-214 was 2- to 4-fold higher in DE50-MD versus WT muscles. Conclusions A normalisation factor derived from miR-191, let-7b, miR-125a and miR-15a is suitable for normalising miR expression data from WT and DE50-MD muscle over a range of ages and muscle types.