bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The cost of sponsored research at institutions of higher learning in low- and middle-income countries: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kulanga Ahaz T. , Kapanda Gibson E. , Bartlett John A. , Muiruri Charles , de Jong Stef 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionResearch in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is challenged with poor investment by both in-country governments and philanthropies. Although research grants cover costs directly associated with specific research projects, they do not fully cover costs that are indirectly attributable to specific projects. The relationship between grant funding and actual cost of paying for such projects at institutions of higher learning (IHL) in LMICs is poorly understood. Our purpose was to evaluate unaccounted costs associated with grants and explore the system level factors that support or hinder the goal of “breaking even”.Materials and methodsWe used a descriptive retrospective cross-sectional design to evaluate unaccounted costs and qualitative interviews with stakeholders at three prominent medical universities in Tanzania. Data were obtained from annual audited Final Reports and Final Financial Reports for biomedical and social and behavioral sciences (non-biomedical) sponsored projects funded from 2007 through 2017.FindingsA total of 17 projects were included in the study, of which 6 (35.3%) were biomedical and 11 (64.7%) non-biomedical. The median total amount of project funding for all biomedical research projects was US$ 544,084; interquartile range (IQR) [89,268-1,226,570]. These projects had median unaccounted costs of US$ 186,403 (IQR) [30,583– 420,223]. The median funding for non-biomedical sponsored research projects was US$ 902,999 (IQR) [468,259–1,951,212] and unaccounted costs were US$ 112,875 (IQR) [58,532–243,902]. 27 faculty and staff at study sites participated in interviews. Three themes emerged-costing practices, unaccounted-for costs, and budget negotiating power.ConclusionThe study demonstrated that there was a substantial amount of unaccounted-for costs for sponsored projects. Costing and financial practices associated with sponsored research projects were weak, coupled with lopsided negotiating power with funding agencies. Funding agencies and institutions in this study should work to reduce the inequity in research costs.
Examining Effective Patient-Provider Communication in Antenatal Settings across England: An In-Depth Analysis of Woman’s Experiences
Authors: Andrzejczak Martyna , Jones Gareth Elfed , Nye Gareth Anthony 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPregnancy requires appropriate guidance and support from healthcare professionals. Understanding women’s experiences of effective patient-provider communication through antenatal care is critical, as evidence suggests, inadequate communication could pose various risks to maternal and neonatal well-being. Despite efforts to modernise maternity services, recent assessments reveal persistent challenges, with nearly half of maternity services inspections categorised as ‘inadequate’ or ‘requires improvement’. This qualitative systematic review investigated effective patient-provider communication in antenatal care settings across England, contributing essential insights into women’s experiences and feelings from various backgrounds.MethodsThis study utilised the PICo framework to formulate the research question, focusing on effective patient-provider communication in antenatal care settings across England. A comprehensive search involving various study types was conducted across electronic databases from 2010 onwards. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were predefined, and relevant studies underwent thorough screening. Data synthesis involved a qualitative descriptive approach, employing thematic analysis to capture diverse experiences. Findings were summarised through coded extracts, supporting quotes, and a narrative addressing women’s experiences.ResultsThe search identified 46 records, with six studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Results were synthesised utilising thematic analysis approach. Subsequently, five themes were distinguished:Responsive and engaging communication; Individualised treatment; Clear presentation of service information and informed choice;Continuityof care; and ‘Additional ways of communication’.The study identified key suggestions to improve patient-provider communication in antenatal care, including tailored training programmes aimed at HCPs focusing on empathy, active listening, building emotional connections, establishing trust, and providing continuity of care. Recommendations also emphasise transparent information and empowering women through communication. Likewise, suggestions extend to the incorporation of cultural safety training initiatives and addressing structural issues within the system. The study, however featured experiences of minority ethnic women, which may potentially impact results, limiting the findings generalisability. In addition, measuring women’s views amid the emotional intensity associated with pregnancy presents inherent challenges, hypothetically affecting the depth of understanding of the experiences.ConclusionFew key conclusions derived from women experiences highlight the need to re-address barriers to communication. Proposed strategies offer practical steps, but further research is urged to address emerging challenges by advocating for improved communication strategies in order to enhance prenatal care nationally.
Plasmids from a complex biome exist as communities
Authors: Smyth Cian , Leigh Robert J , Do Thi Thuy , Walsh Fiona 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPlasmids play a crucial role in the spread of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) across One Health due to their ability to transfer a wide range of ARGs within and across bacterial species and biomes. We sequenced 173 circularised plasmids transferred from wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent intoEscherichia coliand subsequently characterised their genetic content. Multiple multidrug resistant plasmids were identified with a significant number of mega plasmids (>100Kb). Plasmids existing in isolation were rare and almost all existed with other plasmids. Our results suggest that positive epistasis promotes plasmid persistence in WWTP populations in a similar manner to that identifiedin vitrovia infectious transmission, varying properties against plasmid community backgrounds, interactions with a range of other plasmids, source-sink spill-over transmission within the plasmid community rather than the host bacteria and compensatory mutations. We have demonstrated that the plasmid paradox solutions apply to plasmid communities in addition to plasmid host interactions. Our study identified that rather than existing as lone entities plasmids co-exist in small packs, the protection is afforded to the pack not by all members but by one or two and many plasmids coast within this pack as they contain no obvious advantage to the host. Our findings show that we need to enter a new paradigm and study plasmids in packs rather than as single entities in order to understand their transmission across One Health.
Multiscale characterization of cortical signatures in positive and negative schizotypy: A worldwide ENIGMA study
Authors: Kirschner Matthias , Hodzic-Santor Benazir , Kennedy Leda , Hansen Justine Y. , Antoniades Mathilde , Nenadić Igor , Kircher Tilo , Krug Axel , Meller Tina , Dannlowski Udo , Grotegerd Dominik , Flinkenflügel Kira , Meinert Susanne , Borgers Tiana , Goltermann Janik , Hahn Tim , Böhnlein Joscha , Leehr Elisabeth J. , Barkhau Carlotta , Fornito Alex , Arnatkeviciute Aurina , Bellgrove Mark A. , Tiego Jeggan , DeRosse Pamela , Green Melissa , Quidé Yann , Pantelis Christos , Chan Raymond , Wang Yi , Ettinger Ulrich , Debbané Martin , Derome Melodie , Gaser Christian , Besteher Bianca , Diederen Kelly , Spencer Tom J. , Houenou Josselin , Pomarol-Clotet Edith , Salvador Raymond , Rössler Wulf , Smigielski Lukasz , Kumari Veena , Premkumar Preethi , Park Haeme R. P. , Wiebels Kristina , Lemmers-Jansen Imke , Gilleen James , Allen Paul , Marsman Jan-Bernard , Lebedeva Irina , Tomyshev Alexander , Fett Anne-Kathrin , Sommer Iris , Koops Sanne , Grant Phillip , Bègue Indrit , Hernaus Dennis , Jalbrzikowski Maria , Paquola Casey , Larivière Sara , Bernhardt Boris , Valk Sofie , Misic Bratislav , van Erp Theo G. M. , Turner Jessica A. , Thompson Paul M. , Aleman Andre , Dagher Alain , Kaiser Stefan , Modinos Gemma 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPositive and negative schizotypy reflect distinct patterns of subclinical traits in the general population associated with neurodevelopmental and schizophrenia-spectrum pathologies. Yet, a comprehensive characterization of the unique and shared neuroanatomical signatures of these schizotypy dimensions is lacking. Leveraging 3D brain MRI data from 2,730 unmedicated healthy individuals, we identified neuroanatomical profiles of positive and negative schizotypy and systematically compared them to disorder-specific, micro-architectural, connectome, and neurotransmitter-level measures. Positive and negative schizotypy were associated with thinner frontal and thicker paralimbic cortical areas, respectively, and were differentially linked to cortical patterns of schizophrenia-spectrum and neurodevelopmental conditions. Furthermore, these schizotypal cortical patterns mapped onto local attributes of gene expression, cortical myelination, D1 and histamine receptor distributions. Network models identified cortical hub vulnerability to schizotypy-related thickness reduction and epicenters in sensorimotor-to-association and paralimbic areas. This study yields insights into the complex cortical signatures of schizotypy and their relationship to diverse features of cortical organization.
Assessment of risk factors associated with and practices of cattle farmers in Kirehe District Rwanda with respect to vector-borne and zoonotic pathogens
Authors: Dutuze M. Fausta , Espino Analise , Christofferson Rebecca C. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractRural Rwandan communities face challenges to the health of humans and animals. The topography and climate of the Kirehe District of Rwanda put farmers there at high risk for mosquito-borne diseases. Farmers from 92 Rwandan farms were surveyed about farm practices, as well as animal and human health histories between December 2017 to February 2018. Further, human, animal, and environmental factors were investigated to determine whether there is a pattern in risk for abortion occurrence in cattle and/or history of malarial disease in the human populations. Iterative, complimentary logistic regression models were employed to determine whether there was an association between surveyed variables and spontaneous cattle abortion, a known symptom of and risk factor for Rift Valley Fever virus and other mosquito-borne/zoonotic pathogens in the region. These factors were then used to investigate association with a reported history of malaria. Of the 92 farms in our study, 82 were family farms and 10 were commercial farms. On average, 88% of the farms had cattle and 30% of farms had experienced a cattle abortion in the past two years. There was no discernable pattern in significance in the risk factors for history of abortion in cattle. This One Health approach sought to investigate human, animal, and environmental factors surrounding the transmission of zoonotic, mosquito-borne viruses. From our study into the practices of the farmers with respect to biosafety and self-protection against disease, we identify potential sources of risk that could be targeted for enhance education and protection on these farms.
Factors affecting adoption of COVID-19 prevention measures among community members: A Case study of Entebbe Municipal council in Uganda
Authors: Namanya Eliot , Margret Nalubega Joy , Mugenyi Nathan , Twineamatsiko Andrew 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundFollowing continued infections from COVID-19 in Entebbe municipality, there was need to investigate underlying causes off poor adherence. This knowledge would then inform policy and practice enhancements. This study was done to assess the factors affecting the adoption of COVID-19 prevention measures among community members in Entebbe Municipal Council, Uganda given the low levels of adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs). Specific objectives included to assess the individual factors; the community factors and the social-economic factors affecting the adoption of COVID-19 prevention measures in place among community members in Entebbe Municipal Council, Uganda.MethodologyA descriptive analytical cross-sectional study design was used, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods based on an eligible population of 29,973 and sample of 394 respondents. Primary data was collected using interviews and questionnaires. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, and quantitative date was analyzed quantitatively using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) version 23. For quality control, the tool was piloted and found reliable and valid.Study FindingsResults indicate that majority of the respondents were aged 31-40 (32.7%), tertiary level education (76.1%), males (51.5%) and females (48.5%), Christians (84.5%) and Muslims (15.5%), formally employed (78.7%), earned at least a million and above (51.8%). The study explored the factors associated with adoption of Covid-19 SOPs with individual factors, community factors and social economic factors being significant.ConclusionIndividual factors significantly influence adoption of preventive measures. However, the difference between women and men’ adoption and the young people’s negligence to adoption of preventive measures are key.RecommendationsThe study recommends subsidizing and/or free distribution of all materials and equipment that prevent communicable diseases; use influential members of the public as health ambassadors to influence positively the public; free protective gears to groups of people who frequently interact with communities; improved transport system.
Effectiveness of BNT162b2 XBB Vaccine against XBB and JN.1 Sub-lineages
Authors: Tartof Sara Y. , Slezak Jeff M. , Puzniak Laura , Frankland Timothy B. , Ackerson Bradley K. , Jodar Luis , McLaughlin John M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this Brief Report we provide updated results (October 11, 2023 through February 29, 2024) from our previously conducted test-negative case-control study in Kaiser Permanente Southern California to evaluate sub-lineage-specific effectiveness of the BNT162b2 XBB1.5-adapted vaccine. Results suggest that XBB1.5-adapted vaccines may have reduced effectiveness against JN.1 versus XBB sub-lineages.
Success factors of growth-stage digital health companies: protocol for a systematic literature review
Authors: Pfitzer Estelle , Bitomsky Laura , Nißen Marcia , Kausch Christoph , Kowatsch Tobias 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe healthcare industry is undergoing rapid transformation and progress, fueled by technological advances and the growing need for accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare services. While there has been significant progress in digitizing healthcare, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is still considerable untapped potential for digital therapeutics (DTx). According to a report by Bloomberg, the digital health market is projected to reach $1.5 trillion by 2030 (1). However, most ventures in the space struggle to gain traction and eventually stop operations. Also, the diverse regulatory guidelines across countries challenge the scalability of DTx.ObjectiveThe protocol described here outlines the methodology for a systematic review which’s objective is to identify factors that contribute to the successful scaling of digital health companies that have a validated product or service, i.e., growth-stage companies. A further objective is to highlight the key metrics used to quantify success in digital health companies.MethodWe will search business and scientific databases, including EBSCO, PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus, summarize the key findings and highlight the specific success factors relevant to the Digital Health Technologies (DHT) industry. The quality of the selected studies will be assessed using the critical appraisal skills program (CASP) checklists.Expected outcomeThe literature review’s primary objective is to identify essential characteristics and recurring patterns that significantly contribute to success among growth-stage digital health companies. It will bridge the existing knowledge gap and provide stakeholders, including investors and entrepreneurs, with a valuable resource that supports informed decision-making and enhances the success of growth-stage digital health companies.OSF Registrationhttps://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/UYJCA
Potential clinical impact of predictive modeling of heterogeneous treatment effects: scoping review of the impact of the PATH Statement
Authors: Selby Joe V , Maas Carolien C H M , Fireman Bruce H , Kent David M 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe PATH Statement (2020) proposed predictive modeling for examining heterogeneity in treatment effects (HTE) in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). It distinguished risk modeling, which develops a multivariable model predicting individual baseline risk of study outcomes and examines treatment effects across risk strata, from effect modeling, which directly estimates individual treatment effects from models that include treatment, multiple patient characteristics and interactions of treatment with selected characteristics.PurposeTo identify, describe and evaluate findings from reports that cite the Statement and present predictive modeling of HTE in RCTs.Data ExtractionWe identified reports using PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, SCOPUS through July 5, 2024. Using double review with adjudication, we assessed consistency with Statement recommendations, credibility of HTE findings (applying criteria adapted from the Instrument to assess Credibility of Effect Modification Analyses (ICEMAN)), and clinical importance of credible findings.ResultsWe identified 65 reports (presenting 31 risk models, 41 effect models). Contrary to Statement recommendations, only 25 of 48 studies with positive overall findings included a risk model; most effect models included multiple predictors with little prior evidence for HTE. Claims of HTE were noted in 23 risk modeling and 31 effect modeling reports, but risk modeling met credibility criteria more frequently (87 vs 32 percent). For effect models, external validation of HTE findings was critical in establishing credibility. Credible HTE from either approach was usually judged clinically important (24 of 30). In 19 reports from trials suggesting overall treatment benefits, modeling identified subgroups of 5-67% of patients predicted to experience no benefit or net treatment harm. In five that found no overall benefit, subgroups of 25-60% of patients were nevertheless predicted to benefit.ConclusionsMultivariable predictive modeling identified credible, clinically important HTE in one third of 65 reports. Risk modeling found credible HTE more frequently; effect modeling analyses were usually exploratory, but external validation served to increase credibility.
Sexually transmitted infections among key populations in India: systematic review with spatiotemporal distribution
Authors: Bhatta Mihir , Majumdar Agniva , Biswas Subrata , Ghosh Utsha , Ghosh Piyali , Banerji Papiya , Aridoss Santhakumar , Venkatesh Bhumika Tumkur , Das Nibedita , Royal Abhisek , Ray Protim , Goswami Prabuddha Gopal , Narayan Prasad Turalapati Laxmi , Medhi Gajendra Kumar , Khan Pankaj Kumar , Saikia Lahari , Debnath Falguni , Chakraborty Debjit , Deb Alok Kumar , Adhikary Rajatsuvra , Dutta Shanta 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn the developing world, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the key sources of health and financial adversities, contributing significantly to morbidity, death, and stigma. The frequency and prevalence of four treatable STIs— syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis— vary greatly throughout different geographical regions. In the current situation, published reports from multiple local, national and international bodies are combined with information from peer-reviewed published articles to generate present systematic review. Goal of the current systematic review is to identify the geographic distribution and current of STIs among the Indian key population. The PRISMA flow diagram describes the specific criteria of inclusion and exclusion as well as the quantity of articles in each category. A relevant electronic database search produced to find 40 publications that matched the inclusion criteria outlined in the protocol for the current systematic review were found after a search of pertinent electronic databases However, it was found that published articles were not available from all of the geographical regions in India. The majority of the research was found in the western and southern regions. Few studies from the northern and north eastern regions of India have been published. The majority of published studies on STI prevalence were based on syphilis seroprevalence and focused on the MSM (men sex with men) and FSW (female sex workers) populations, followed by H/TG (Hijras with Transgenders) and PWID (those who inject drugs). The majority of the research used aetiological diagnosis to report prevalence. It can be concluded in light of the current findings with considering the noted limitations, present HIV surveillance system under the NACP (National AIDS Control Programme) may utilized the collected extra bio-specimen to establish prevalence of STIs in high risk populations. However, in coming days, with the availability of the comparable data from most of the regions in India, it will be possible to perform a systemic review and meta-analysis on the spatiotemporal distribution of the four curable STIs in Indian general population.