bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The coArtHA&nbsp;Trial - Identifying the Most Effective Treatment Strategies to Control Arterial Hypertension in Sub-Saharan Africa: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mapesi Herry , Gupta Ravi , Wilson Herieth Ismael , Lukau Blaise , Amstutz Alain , Lyimo Aza , Muhairwe Josephine , Senkoro Elizabeth , Byakuzana Theonestina , Mphunyane Madavida , Bresser Moniek , Glass Tracy Renée , Lambiris Mark , Fink Günther , Gingo Winfrid , Battegay Manuel , Paris Daniel Henry , Rohacek Martin , Vanobberghen Fiona , Labhardt Niklaus Daniel , Burkard Thilo , Weisser Maja 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Arterial hypertension is the most prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular disease in sub-Saharan Africa. Only a few and mostly small randomized trials have studied antihypertensive treatments in people of African descent living in sub-Saharan Africa. MethodsIn this open-label, three-arm, parallel randomized controlled trial conducted at two rural hospitals in Lesotho and Tanzania, we compare the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of three antihypertensive treatment strategies among participants aged ≥18 years. The study includes patients with untreated uncomplicated arterial hypertension diagnosed by a standardized office blood pressure ≥ 140/90mmHg. The trial encompasses a superiority comparison between a triple low-dose antihypertensive drug combination versus the current standard of care (monotherapy followed by dual treatment), as well as a non-inferiority comparison for a dual drug combination versus standard of care with optional dose titration after 4 and 8 weeks for participants not reaching the target blood pressure. The sample size is 1268 participants with parallel allocation and a randomization ratio of 2:1:2 for the dual, triple and control arms, respectively. The primary endpoint is the proportion of participants reaching a target blood pressure at 12 weeks of ≤130/80 mmHg and ≤140/90 mmHg among those aged <65 years and ≥65 years, respectively. Clinical manifestations of end-organ damage and cost-effectiveness at 6 months are secondary endpoints. DiscussionThis trial will help to identify the most effective and cost-effective treatment strategies for uncomplicated arterial hypertension among people of African descent living in rural sub-Saharan Africa and inform future clinical guidelines on antihypertensive management in the region. Trial registrationClinicaltrials.gov, NCT04129840. Registered on 17 October 2019 (https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/).
Relationships with caregivers and mental health outcomes among adolescents living with HIV: A prospective cohort study in South Africa
Authors: Shenderovich Yulia , Boyes Mark , Esposti Michelle Degli , Casale Marisa , Toska Elona , Roberts Kathryn J. , Cluver Lucie 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Mental health problems may impact adherence to anti-retroviral treatment, retention in care, and consequently the survival of adolescents living with HIV. The adolescent-caregiver relationship is an important potential source of resilience. However, there is a lack of longitudinal research in sub-Saharan Africa on which aspects of adolescent-caregiver relationships can promote mental health among adolescents living with HIV. We draw on a prospective longitudinal cohort study undertaken in South Africa to address this question. Methods The study traced adolescents aged 10-19 initiated on antiretroviral treatment in government health facilities ( n = 53) within a health district of the Eastern Cape province. The adolescents completed standardised questionnaires during three data collection waves between 2014 and 2018. We used within-between multilevel regressions to examine the links between three aspects of adolescent-caregiver relationships (caregiver supervision, positive caregiving, and adolescent-caregiver communication) and adolescent mental health (depression symptoms and anxiety symptoms), controlling for potential confounders (age, sex, rural/urban residence, mode of infection, household resources), n =926 adolescents. Results Improvements in caregiver supervision were associated with reductions in anxiety (0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99, p=0.0002) but not depression symptoms (0.99, 95% CI 0.98-1.00, p=.151), while changes in positive caregiving were not associated with changes in mental health symptoms reported by adolescents. Improvements in adolescent-caregiver communication over time were associated with reductions in both depression (IRR=0.94, 95% CI 0.92-0.97, p<.0001) and anxiety (0.91, 95% CI 0.89-0.94, p<.0001) symptoms reported by adolescents. Conclusions Findings highlight open and supportive adolescent-caregiver communication and good caregiver supervision as potential factors for guarding against mental health problems among adolescents living with HIV in South Africa. Several evidence-informed parenting programmes aim to improve adolescent-caregiver communication and caregiver supervision, and their effect on depression and anxiety among adolescents living with HIV should be rigorously tested in sub-Saharan Africa. How to improve communication in other settings, such as schools and clinics, and provide communication support for caregivers, adolescents, and service providers through these existing services should also be considered.
Effects of programmatic interventions to improve the management of latent tuberculosis: a follow up study up to five months after implementation.
Authors: Lane Mercedes Yanes , Trajman Anete , Bastos Mayara Lisboa , Oxlade Olivia , Valiquette Chantal , Rufino Nathalia , Fregonese Federica , Menzies Dick 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Less than 19% of those needing tuberculosis (TB) preventive treatment complete it, due to losses in several steps of the cascade of care for latent TB infection. A cluster randomized trial of a programmatic public health intervention to improve management of latent TB infection in household contacts was conducted in Rio de Janeiro. Interventions included contact registry, initial and in-service training, and a TB booklet. We conducted a follow-up study starting one month after the conclusion of this trial, to measure the effect of interventions implemented, and to identify remaining barriers and facilitators to latent TB infection treatment, from different perspectives.METHODS: In two health clinics in Rio de Janeiro that received the interventions in the trial, data for the latent TB infection cascade of care for household contacts was collected over a five-month period. The number of household contacts initiating treatment per 100 index-TB patients was compared with the cascade of care data obtained before and during the intervention trial. Semi-structured open-ended questionnaires were administered to healthcare workers, household contacts and index-TB patients regarding knowledge and perceptions about TB and study interventions. RESULTS: In this follow-up study, 184 household contacts per 100 index-TB patients were identified. When compared to the intervention period, there were 65 fewer household contacts per 100 index-TB patients, (95% CI -115, -15) but the number starting latent TB infection treatment was sustained (difference 2, 95% CI -8,5). A total of 31 index-TB patients, 22 household contacts and 19 health care workers were interviewed. Among index-TB patients, 61% said all their household contacts had been tested for latent TB infection. All health care workers said it was very important to test household contacts, and 95% mentioned that possessing correct knowledge on the benefits of latent TB infection treatment was the main facilitator to enable them to recommend this treatment.CONCLUSION: In this follow-up study, we observed a sustained effect of interventions to strengthen the latent TB infection cascade of care on increasing the number of household contacts starting latent TB infection treatment.
Analysis of cesarean section rates using Robson Ten Group Classification System in a tertiary teaching hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abubeker Ferid A. , Gashawbeza Biruck , Gebre Thomas Mekuria , Wondafrash Mekitie , Teklu Alula M. , Degu Demis , Bekele Delayehu 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background Cesarean section (CS) is an important indicator of access to, and quality of maternal health services. The World Health Organization recommends the Robson ten group classification system as a global standard for assessing, monitoring and comparing CS rates at all levels. This study aimed to assess the rate of CS and perform an analysis based on Robson classification system. Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected from medical charts of all women who delivered from January-June 2018. The overall CS rate was calculated then women were categorized into one of the ten Robson groups. Relative size of each group, contribution of each group to the overall CS rate, and CS rate within each group were calculated. Results A total of 4,200 deliveries were analyzed. Of these 1,459 (34.7%) were CS. The largest contributors to the overall CS rate were Group 10 (19.1%), Group 2 (18.3%), Group 5 (17.1%), and Group 4 (15.8%). There was also a high rate of pre-labor CS in Group 2, Group 4, and Group 10. Conclusion Through implementation of the Robson ten group classification system, we identified the contribution of each group to the overall CS rate as well as the CS rate within each group. Group 10 was the leading contributor to the overall CS rate. This study also revealed a high rate of CS among low-risk groups. These target groups require more in-depth analysis to identify possible modifiable factors and to apply specific interventions to reduce the CS rate. Evaluation of existing management protocols and further studies into indications of CS and outcomes are needed to design tailored strategies and improve outcomes.
Curbing Adolescent Illicit Drug use in Owerri Metropolis, Nigeria: A Public Perceptive.
Authors: U. Ogu Udochukwu , Ezumah Nkoli , Odii Aloysius , Uguru Nkolika P. 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Background: To reduce the rate of illicit drug use, the public has an important role to play, therefore how they perceive illicit drug use among youths must be ascertained. This study seeks to ascertain the public perception of strategies for curbing adolescent drug use.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used for the study. The study adopted a mixed-method approach comprising quantitative and qualitative methods. The study population consisted of members of the public aged 18 years and above, residing in Owerri metropolis at the time of the study. A total of 10 communities were selected randomly in all: four communities from the 16 communities that make up Owerri West, five communities from the 18 communities that make up Owerri North and one community from the five communities that make up Owerri Municipal. A total of 16 respondents were purposively selected for in-depth interviews.Results: The quantitative findings show that 70.7% of respondents believe that the use of illicit drugs by adolescents can be controlled. The findings also show that one of the public’s perception to control adolescent drug use is to establish stringent anti-illicit drugs consumption laws/policies (20.4%) amongst others. The qualitative findings report that in order to curb the use of drugs by adolescents, the following activities and bodies need to be implored: health promotion, raising more awareness and sensitization campaigns, creation of remand homes for juveniles, the involvement of parents, school authorities and religious organizations and rehabilitation programmes. However, raising awareness, according to the study was reported as a reliable way of eliminating drug use among adolescents.Conclusion: To curb illicit drug use, proper funding of drug enforcement agencies, sensitization campaigns, strict laws on drug prescription, provision and use and health education etc. are very necessary for reducing adolescents’ illicit drug consumption.
Analysis of the effect on inflation, interest rate, dow jones Islamic Malaysia Index and profitability on stock prices as selected as Indonesia Sharia Stock Index
Authors: Halim Sofyan 
Published: December 2020

Purpose - The purpose of this study was to analyze what influences the change in the ISSI price index. The analysis was based on the phenomena and hypotheses that occur in the capital market by examining whether there is an influence of inflation rates, interest rates, and the Dow Jones Islamic Malaysia Index as external factors, as well as profitability such as Return on Assets and Earning per Share as internal factors that have an influence on changes and fluctuations in the Sharia Stock Index.Method - The population in this study are all stocks that are encoded in the Indonesia Sharia Stock Index (ISSI) listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Based on the Sharia Stock Exchange and the number of shares indexed by ISSI was 408 shares which shares were classified into 11 types of business. The study was conducted by analyzing multiple regression with t-test, significance test, F test, and classical assumption test.Result - Based on the research results of bank interest rates and the Dow Jones Islamic Malaysia Index which affect stock prices indexed as Indonesia Sharia Stock, the two variables are the external influence of the issuers of the shares. And the majority of these stock prices are strongly influenced by variable factors not examined.Implication - This research indicates that the factors that influence stock prices indexed as Islamic stocks in Indonesia, the analysis of the coefficient of determination is not significant at 0.6%, to find out other factors, other variables are needed for further research.Originality - This research is a continuation of previous research but uses different variables from previous researches, where the dependent variable is stock prices indexed as Indonesian Islamic stocks and the independent variable is the inflation rate, interest rate, and the Malaysian Islamic Dow Jones Index as factors.
Structure of Technological Dynamics and Economic Growth of Russia
Authors: Sukharev O. S. 
Published: December 2020

The slowdown in Russia’s economic growth to the “covid crisis”, as well as the possibility of restoring growth and forming a new model of it, are associated with the need to overcome structural constraints. Moreover, the plans for the recovery of the Russian economy note the need not only for a stimulating macroeconomic policy, but also for the implementation of structural changes through technological renewal. However, technological modernization is highly dependent on the existing mode of technological development – the current and future demand for new technologies. The implementation of the country’s technological development strategy requires an assessment of the existing technological structure with a measurement of its reaction to ongoing investments in support of obsolete and emergence of new technologies. Different sectors of the economy and its regions, having a different set of technologies and their structure, show a different level of manufacturability, which is understood as the ratio of the volume of innovative to non-innovative products. The sensitivity of this parameter to investments in new and outdated technologies is also different, which cannot be taken into account in the formation of investment and technological development policies for both individual regions and Russia as a whole. Using structural and regression analysis, this study provides a picture of the structure of the technological Russian economy. It is shown that technological modernization also involves the movement of resources in the sectoral and regional context in order to eliminate structural and technological imbalances in development. Investment policy should be reduced not only to increasing investments, but also to managing their structure in conjunction with replacing old technologies in order to level and improve the overall manufacturability. This will require solving the promising problem of increasing the sensitivity of manufacturability to investments in new technologies. In the long term, this approach will make it possible to single out the modes of regional technological development, not only ranking regions in terms of sensitivity to new and old technologies, but also developing a selective set of regional policy measures.Keywords: “covid crisis”, economic growth, industrialization, investments, structural changes, structural dynamics, technologies, technological effectiveness of the regional economy.
The Benefit of Non-invasive Ventilation in Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Walsh Laura J. , Murphy Desmond M. 
Published: December 2020

Background:
Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder leading to respiratory muscle weakness with dyspnoea, morning headaches, orthopnoea, poor concentration, unrefreshing sleep, fatigue and daytime somnolence. Respiratory failure is the primary cause of death in those with MND.

Methods:
Although guidelines suggest the use of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in MND, there lacks clear guidance as to when is the optimal time to initiate NIV and which markers of respiratory muscle decline are the best predictors of prognosis. There have been a number of studies that have found a significant survival advantage to the use of NIV in MND. Similarly, in quality-of-life questionnaires, those treated with NIV tend to perform better and maintain a better quality of life for longer. Furthermore, studies also suggest that improved compliance and greater tolerance of NIV confer a survival advantage.

Results and Discussion:
Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) has traditionally been the main pulmonary function test to determine the respiratory function in those with MND; however, FVC may not be entirely reflective of early respiratory muscle dysfunction. Evidence suggests that sniff nasal inspiratory pressure and maximum mouth inspiratory pressure may be better indicators of early respiratory muscle decline. These measures have been shown to be easier to perform later in the disease, in patients with bulbar onset disease, and may indeed be better prognostic indicators.

Conclusion:
Despite ongoing research, there remains a paucity of randomised controlled data in this area. This review aims to summarise the evidence to date on these topics.
In situ Observations of Porcine Ocular Surface Cells with Handheld 2K-pixel Microscope
Authors: Mimura Tatsuya , Mizota Atsushi , Hayashi Toshihiro , Nishimura Satoshi 
Published: December 2020

Introduction:
To present our findings of the porcine ocular surface that were obtained with an ultra-compact hand-held microscope that weighs less than 500 g, we examined the corneal epithelial cells with this hand-held microscope.

Methods:
This device is equipped with an automatic focusing mechanism that enabled us to observe living cells in macro to micro magnifications with a series of operations. The focus is semi-automatically adjusted by the infrared and ultrasonic distance sensor. The instrument has a commercially-available microscope objective lens of 20x or 40x magnification and has a high-resolution 2K Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) camera. The theoretical spatial resolution is around 300 nm with a higher Numerical Aperture (high-NA) lenses. The widefield reflectance-based imaging system is equipped with three-color visible Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) for use in bright environments and an infrared LED for dark environments. Ten normal and two injured porcine corneas were examined with this hand-held microscope.

Results:
Our observations showed that the corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells could be continuously observed. The epithelial cells of the central cornea, limbus, and conjunctiva were clearly seen. The epithelial cells on the injured corneal surface were also easily and clearly observed.

Conclusion:
This hand-held microscopic imaging device allows medical health care workers such as ophthalmologists and endoscopists to obtain real-time in vivo optical biopsies without collecting tissues and cells. Our system enables us to observe single cells in the superficial layers without any fluorescein or other dyes.
Multi-modal Imaging in Etanercept-induced Uveitis: A Case Series
Authors: Gill Jaidip , Barry Robert , Sreekantam Shreekanth , Mohammed Bashar 
Published: December 2020

Introduction:
To report with multi-modal imaging the clinical course of 3 patients with new-onset uveitis following treatment with etanercept.

Methods:
Retrospective case-note reviews were conducted of 3 patients previously established on etanercept who developed new-onset acute uveitis.

Results and Discussion:
Three patients were assessed with a mean age of 44.3 (43-47). Etanercept was indicated for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis in two patients and psoriatic arthritis in 1 patient. Duration of etanercept treatment ranged from 7 to 10 years; however, in two cases, treatment recently changed to an etanercept biosimilar agent. Two patients were diagnosed with bilateral panuveitis and one patient had chronic relapsing anterior uveitis. Infection screen was negative in all three patients. 2 patients developed cystoid macular oedema as viewed on Spectral Domain OCT. Fundus fluorescein angiography was performed in one patient who demonstrated bilateral retinal vasculitis. All three patients were started on systemic and topical treatment. One patient received sub-tenon triamcinolone injection. Etanercept was discontinued for all patients. 1 of 3 patients lost vision at 7 months. 2 patients demonstrated long-term remission and one patient required intravitreal steroid implantation to stabilize an ongoing intraocular inflammation. Two patients who had complete remission were commenced on Adalimumab while the third patient was commenced on Secukinumab.

Conclusion:
The clinical course of uveitis developing paradoxically following etanercept treatment is variable. Multi-modal imaging is useful for the clinician that helps in diagnosing and monitoring associated macular oedema and retinal ischaemia. Cessation of etanercept and systemic corticosteroid treatment are often required to prevent ocular morbidity.
The Uncertainty of Cryptocurrency: How Bright is Bitcoin's Future?
Authors: Sousa Ryder , Medearis Max 
Published: December 2020

In this report, we looked at the day by day Open, High, Low, and Close
prices of Bitcoin from 2012-2020 and tested common ideas about the
characteristics of the Cryptocurrency. In particular, we took a look as
to whether or not Bitcoin is correlated to the movements of the stock
market, and analyzed its movements in relation to the time of year.
Using various forms of regression analysis, we found that Bitcoin is
very tightly correlated with the stock market. We also found that time
of year seems does not seem to have a uniquely large effect of the price
movement of Bitcoin.