bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Constitutional History of Ecuador
Authors: Salazar Daniela 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of the constitutional history of Ecuador as well as some details on the current structure of the country’s 2008 Constitution. The fact that Ecuador has associated political change with constituent movements has translated into twenty constitutions with one common characteristic: their inability to fulfil the transformations promised. The chapter begins by reviewing the constitutional history of Ecuador, from before its independence to the present. It then turns to the current Ecuadorian Constitution, approved in Montecristi, Ecuador, in 2008, which has been the subject of praise and criticism by scholars studying neo-constitutionalism and Andean constitutionalism. Focusing on what makes this Constitution distinct, the chapter describes its main provisions regarding rights, the separation of powers, territorial distribution of power, and constitutional reform. It concludes by examining the characteristics of constitutional review by the judiciary and constitutional scholarship in Ecuador.
Divergent Perspectives of Filipino PLWH, Their Partners, and Care Providers on Sexuality After an HIV Diagnosis: A Q-Methodological Analysis
Authors: Calaguas Noriel P. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
This study explores the perspectives that Filipinos with professional and personal experience with people living with HIV hold about sexuality after an HIV diagnosis. Twenty people living with HIV (PLWH), 11 partners of PLWH, and 10 HIV care professionals in the Philippines were asked to rank-order 54 statements about sexuality post-HIV diagnosis. They shared the reasoning behind their rankings on an online survey platform. By-person factor analysis was done, with factors extracted based on principal component analysis followed by varimax rotation. The analysis yielded six factors with 22 males' and 3 females' Q-sorts exemplifying the views regarding sexuality post-HIV diagnosis: to be human, is to be sexual; information is power; fear of being othered; partnership for enhanced sexuality; disclosure and trust; and communication is foundational. This study revealed diverse viewpoints about sexuality after an HIV diagnosis. HIV care professionals play a decisive role in addressing concerns relating to the sexual health and well-being of newly diagnosed PLWH.
Genomics update 2022: Clinician and patient hot topics
Authors: Wysocki Kenneth , Seibert Diane 
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACT
Advances in genomics research and clinical applications continue to accelerate. Coupled with the availability of direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing of genetic testing and new discoveries, patients are increasingly coming into primary care with genomic questions. This article offers a snapshot of the kinds of questions patients are asking and that providers should be prepared to discuss such as what to do with DTC results or whether pharmacogenetics testing would help make sure “the right” medication is prescribed. Clinicians should understand the value of clinical guidelines (and where to find them), how to find a genetic specialist, what's happening with gene editing (to include gene sequencing), what's on the horizon in cancer care, and what the future might hold.
The Utility of the Ultrasonographic Characteristics in Differentiating Between Malignant and Tuberculous Mediastinal Lymphadenopathy During EBUS-TBNA
Authors: Madan Karan , Madan Manu , Mittal Saurabh , Tiwari Pavan , Hadda Vijay , Mohan Anant , Pandey Ravindra M. , Guleria Randeep 
Published: April 2022

Background:
Ultrasonographic characteristics may help differentiate between benign and malignant lymph nodes during endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). There is limited data on the utility of various ultrasonographic lymph node features to differentiate between malignant and tuberculous mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Methods:
We studied the various EBUS ultrasonographic lymph node characteristics (size, shape, margins, heterogeneous echotexture, calcification, central hilar structure, lymph node conglomeration, central intranodal vessel, and coagulation necrosis sign) from our available EBUS-TBNA database.

Results:
We extracted 1086 subjects [547 with tuberculosis (TB) and 539 with malignant diagnosis]. Comparing the 2 groups (multivariate analysis), presence of central hilar structure (8.2% vs. 2.6%), coagulation necrosis sign (37.5% vs. 13.7%), lymph node conglomeration (30.5% vs. 7.2%), calcification (5.1% vs. 1.5%), and distinct margins (83.5% vs. 69.8%), were significantly more common in TB (P<0.05). On the other hand, malignant lymph nodes were larger and more likely to show the presence of a central intranodal vessel (20% vs. 15.8%, P=0.04, multivariate analysis). The absence of lymph node conglomeration had the highest overall diagnostic accuracy (0.61) for the differentiation between malignant and tuberculous lymph nodes.

Conclusion:
Sonographic lymph node characteristics may help differentiate malignant and tuberculous mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Contrary to previously published literature, we observed coagulation necrosis sign, heterogeneous echotexture and absent central intranodal vessel, more commonly in TB than malignant nodes. These findings from a TB endemic setting are different from other settings, where the prevalence of lung cancer is high in patients undergoing EBUS-TBNA.
Biomechanically Compliant Gynecologic Training Simulator
Authors: Nadhif Muhammad Hanif , Irsyad Muhammad , Ocviyanti Dwiana 
Published: April 2022

Introduction
Pap smear training is commonly conducted using simulators before practicing with humans. Unfortunately, existing simulators do not well simulate the biomechanical properties of pelvic tissues, and this may negatively impact the training outcome. In this study, we used finite element analysis (FEA) to identify a material that most accurately simulates pelvic tissues in terms of biomechanical properties for fabricating gynecologic training simulators. The selected material was then used to fabricate a vagina and cervix model using a hybrid technique of fused deposition modeling and molding to qualitatively confirm the structural integrity of the simulator.

Methods
The vagina and cervix were reconstructed in a 3-dimensional feature according to geometrical parameters reported in the literature. The biomechanical compliance of the simulators was investigated by comparing 5 materials—RTV615, Dragon Skin 10, Dragon Skin 30, Dragon Skin FX-Pro, and Ecoflex 00-30—and a pelvic tissue model (control) using 2 FEA modules. The structural mechanics module simulated the insertion and opening of a vaginal speculum, and the (1) horizontal opening of the vagina and peak von Mises stress at the anterior and (2) posterior walls of the vagina were obtained. The explicit dynamics module estimated (1) the fracture stress during punch biopsies and (2) maximum perpendicular deformation of the cervix before break. The most biomechanically compliant material was subsequently used to fabricate the simulator using the hybrid technique.

Results
From the FEA, the horizontal opening of the vagina, peak von Mises stress at the anterior wall of the vagina, peak von Mises stress at the posterior wall of the vagina fracture stress, and maximum perpendicular deformation of the cervix before break were obtained; the results of Dragon Skin 10 and the control were most similar. Therefore, the simulator was fabricated using the material. A qualitative evaluation of the simulator by the naked eye verified its structural integrity.

Conclusions
Of the materials studied, the FEA results showed that Dragon Skin 10 was the most accurate material for simulating pelvic tissues in terms of the biomechanical properties in a gynecologic training simulator. The simulator was also successfully fabricated using the hybrid technique. Further studies may also involve experimental testing to support the simulation results.
Changing characteristics over time of individuals receiving COVID-19 vaccines in Denmark: A population-based descriptive study of vaccine uptake
Authors: Reilev Mette , Olesen Morten , Kildegaard Helene , Støvring Henrik , Andersen Jacob H. , Hallas Jesper , Lund Lars C. , Ladebo Louise , Ernst Martin T. , Damkier Per , Jensen Peter B. , Pottegård Anton , Rasmussen Lotte 
Published: April 2022

AbstractAimsThe Danish authorities implemented a differential rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines where individuals at high risk of COVID-19 were prioritized. We describe the temporal uptake of COVID-19 vaccines and changing characteristics of vaccine recipients in Denmark.MethodsUsing the Danish national health care registries, we identified all Danish residents ≥5 years of age who received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine from December 27th, 2020, to January 29th, 2022. We charted the daily number of newly vaccinated individuals and the cumulative vaccine coverage over time, stratified by vaccine type, age groups, and vaccination priority groups. In addition, we described characteristics of vaccine recipients during 2-months-intervals and in vaccination priority groups.ResultsBy January 29th, 2022, 86%, 84% and 63% of Danish residents ≥5 years had received a first, second, and third dose, respectively, of a COVID-19 vaccine, most commonly the BNT162b2 vaccine (84% of vaccinated individuals). Vaccine uptake ranged from 48% in 5-11-year-olds up to 98% in 65-74-year-olds. Individuals vaccinated before June 2021 were older (median age 61-70 years vs. 10-35 years in later periods) and had more comorbidities such as hypertension (22-28% vs. 0.77-2.8% in later periods), chronic lung disease (9.4-15% vs. 3.7-4.6% in later periods), and diabetes (9.3-12% vs. 0.91-2.4% in later periods).ConclusionsThe uptake of the COVID-19 vaccines is high in Denmark. We document substantial changes over time in characteristics of vaccine recipients which should be considered when designing and interpreting studies on the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
No magic bullet: limiting in-school transmission in the face of variable SARS-CoV-2 viral loads
Authors: Van Egeren Debra , Stoddard Madison , Malakar Abir , Ghosh Debayan , Acharya Antu , Mainuddin Sk , Majumdar Biswajit , Luo Deborah , Nolan Ryan , Joseph-McCarthy Diane , White Laura F. , Hochberg Natasha S. , Basu Saikat , Chakravarty Arijit 
Published: April 2022

AbstractIn the face of a long-running pandemic, understanding the drivers of ongoing SARS-CoV-2 transmission is crucial for the rational management of COVID-19 disease burden. Keeping schools open has emerged as a vital societal imperative during the pandemic, but in-school transmission of SARS-CoV-2 can contribute to further prolonging the pandemic. In this context, the role of schools in driving SARS-CoV-2 transmission acquires critical importance. Here we model in-school transmission from first principles to investigate the effectiveness of layered mitigation strategies on limiting in-school spread. We examine the effect of masks and air quality (ventilation, filtration and ionizers) on steady-state viral load in classrooms, as well as on the number of particles inhaled by an uninfected person. The effectiveness of these measures in limiting viral transmission is assessed for variants with different levels of mean viral load (Wuhan, Delta, Omicron). Our results suggest that a layered mitigation strategy can be used effectively to limit in-school transmission, with certain limitations. First, poorly designed strategies (insufficient ventilation, no masks, staying open under high levels of community transmission) will permit in-school spread even if some level of mitigation is ostensibly present. Second, for viral variants that are sufficiently contagious, it may be difficult to construct any set of interventions capable of blocking transmission once an infected individual is present, underscoring the importance of other measures. Our findings provide several practical recommendations: the use of a layered mitigation strategy that is designed to limit transmission, with other measures such as frequent surveillance testing and smaller class sizes (such as by offering remote schooling options to those who prefer it) as needed.
Identification of Global DNA Methylation Signatures in Patients of High Altitude Induced Venous Thrombo-Embolism (HA-VTE)
Authors: Srivastava Swati , Garg Iti , Kumari Babita , Yanamandra Uday , Singh Jasjit , Ganju Lilly , Varshney Rajeev 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundPathophysiology of venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) depends upon several acquired, inherited and environmental risk factors, including high altitude (HA) exposure. The present study aims to gain insights into pathophysiological mechanism(s) of high altitude induced VTE (HA-VTE) by studying global methylation signatures.MethodologyBlood samples were collected from Indian Army volunteers divided into four study groups; sea level control (SLC), sea level VTE patients (SL-VTE), high altitude control (HAC) and high altitude VTE patients (HA-VTE). Methylation patterns were studied using whole genome bisulfate sequencing. Differentially methylated genes and pathways were identified by comparing percentage methylation.ResultsHighest DM was observed in SL-VTE (1162 gene) compared to SLC where in hyper methylation was predominant (62.9%) compared to hypo methylation (37.05%). A reverse trend was observed in HA-VTE, where hypo methylation (61.69%) was predominant over hyper methylation (38.30%) in a total of 296 DM genes. Differential hypomethylation of genes involved in cell adhesion/platelet activity (CADM1, PTPRK, PDGFA) and immune response (CXCL12, IL4, IRF4, NLRP1) was observed in HA-VTE whereas genes encoding transcription factors (GSC, RPSKA1), trans membrane receptor (NOTCH2) and growth factor (TGFB2) were hypermethylated in comparison to SL-VTE. Methylation pattern of HA-VTE compared to HAC showed hypomethylation in genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation (CPOX), immune response and stress response (NDRG1), while those involved in signaling mechanisms (KALRN), neurotransmitter release (TMPRSS2) and transcription factor (ELF1) were hyper-methylated.ConclusionsOur study for the first time reveals genome wide methylation pattern in HA-VTE group where in differential hypo methylation in cell adhesion and inflammation genes was observed.
The Application of Data Science Techniques and Algorithms in Women’s Health Studies
Authors: Akpan Ikpe Justice , Aguolu Obianuju Genevieve 
Published: April 2022

AbstractObjectiveEvaluate and map data science methods employed to solve health conditions of women, examine the problems tackled and the effectiveness.Research MethodText analytics, science mapping, and descriptive evaluation of data science methods utilized in women-related health research.Findings(i). The trends in scholarships using data science methods indicate gaps between women and men relating to health burden and access to health. (ii). The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic tend to widen the identified health gaps, increasing the disease burden for women, while reducing access to health. There are noticeable additional health burdens on pregnant women and those with several health conditions (breast cancer, gynecologic oncology, cardiovascular disease, and more). (iii). Over 95% of studies using data science methods (artificial intelligence, machine learning, novel algorithms, predictive, big data, visual analytics, clinical decision support systems, or a combination of the methods) indicate significant effectiveness. (iv). Mapping of the scientific literature to authors, sources, and countries show an upward trend; 997 (16%), 113 (1.33%), and 57 (2.63%) per article, respectively. About 95% of research utilizing data science methods in women’s health studies occurred within the last four (4) years.ConclusionsThe application of data science methods in tackling different health problems of women is effective and growing, and capable of easing the burden of health in women. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic tends to compound the health burden for women more than men. Policymakers must do more to improve access to health for women.
Detection of mosaic chromosomal alterations in children with severe developmental disorders recruited to the DDD study
Authors: Eberhardt Ruth Y. , Wright Caroline F. , FitzPatrick David R. , Hurles Matthew E. , Firth Helen V. 
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACTPurposeStructural mosaicism has been previously implicated in developmental disorders. We aim to identify rare mosaic chromosomal alterations (MCAs) in probands with severe undiagnosed developmental disorders.MethodsWe identified MCAs in SNP array data from 12,530 probands in the Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) study using MoChA.ResultsWe found 61 MCAs in 57 probands, many of these were tissue specific. In 23/26 (88.5%) cases for which the MCA was detected in saliva where blood was also available for analysis, the MCA could not be detected in blood. The MCAs included 20 polysomies, comprising either one arm of a chromosome or a whole chromosome, for which we were able to show the timing of the error (25% mitosis, 40% meiosis I, 35% meiosis II). Only 2/57 (3.5%) of the probands in whom we found MCAs had another likely genetic diagnosis identified by whole exome sequencing, despite an overall diagnostic yield of ∼40% across the cohort.ConclusionOur results show that identification of MCAs provides candidate diagnoses for previously undiagnosed patients with developmental disorders, potentially explaining ∼0.45% of cases in the DDD study. Nearly 90% of these MCAs would have remained undetected by analysing DNA from blood and no other tissue.
Effectiveness of Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine in Zimbabwe used in response to an outbreak among children and young adults: a matched case control study
Authors: Lightowler Maria S. , Manangazira Portia , Nackers Fabienne , Van Herp Michel , Phiri Isaac , Kuwenyi Kuziwa , Panunzi Isabella , Garone Daniela , Marume Farayi , Tarupiwa Andrew , Ferreras Eva , Duri Clemence , Luquero Francisco J. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractBackgroundZimbabwe suffers from regular outbreaks of typhoid fever (TF), worse since 2017. Most cases were in Harare and a vaccination campaign with Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) was conducted in March 2019. The vaccine effectiveness (VE) was assessed against culture-confirmed S. Typhi in children six months to 15 years and in individuals six months to 45 years in Harare.MethodsA matched case-control study was conducted in three urban suburbs of Harare targeted by the TCV vaccination campaign. Suspected TF cases were enrolled prospectively in four health facilities and were matched to facility (1:1) and community (1:5) controls.FindingsOf 504 suspected cases from July 2019 to March 2020, 148 laboratory-confirmed TF cases and 153 controls confirmed-negative were identified. One hundred and five (47 aged six months to 15 years) cases were age, sex, and residence matched with 105 facility-based controls while 96 cases were matched 1:5 by age, sex, and immediate-neighbour with 229 community controls.The adjusted VE against confirmed TF was 75% (95%CI: 1–94, p=0.049) compared to facility controls, and 84% (95%CI: 57–94, p<0.001) compared to community controls in individuals six months to 15 years. The adjusted VE against confirmed TF was 46% (95%CI: 26–77, p=0.153) compared to facility controls, and 67% (95%CI: 35–83, p=0.002) compared to community controls six months to 45 years old.InterpretationThis study confirms that one vaccine dose of TCV is effective to control TF in children between six months and 15 years old in an African setting.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) self-testing among un- and under-screened Māori, Pasifika, and Asian women in Aotearoa New Zealand: a preference survey among responders and interviews with clinical-trial non-responders
Authors: Sherman Susan M. , Bartholomew Karen , Brewer Naomi , Bromhead Collette , Crengle Sue , Cunningham Chris , Douwes Jeroen , Foliaki Sunia , Grant Jane , Maxwell Anna , McPherson Georgina , Potter John D. , Scott Nina , Wihongi Helen 
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACTAimMāori, Pasifika, and Asian women are less likely to attend cervical screening and Māori and Pasifika women are more likely to be diagnosed with later-stage cervical cancer than other women in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study – with under-screened women taking part in a randomised controlled trial comparing self-testing and standard screening – explored the acceptability of an HPV self-test kit and the preferred method for receiving it.MethodsMāori, Pasifika, and Asian women (N=376) completed a postal questionnaire. Twenty-six women who had not accepted the trial invitation were interviewed to understand their reasons for non-participation.ResultsMost women found the self-test kit easy and convenient to use and reported that they did not find it painful, uncomfortable, or embarrassing. This was reflected in the preference for a self-test over a future smear test on the same grounds. Most women preferred to receive the kit by mail and take the test themselves, rather than having it done by a doctor or nurse. There was a range of preferences relating to how to return the kit. Phone calls with non-responders revealed that, although most had received the test kit, the reasons for not choosing to be involved included not wanting to, being too busy, or forgetting.ConclusionsHPV self-testing was acceptable for Māori, Pasifika, and Asian women in Aotearoa New Zealand. HPV self-testing has considerable potential to reduce the inequities in the current screening programme and should be made available with appropriate delivery options as soon as possible.
A recurrent network architecture explains tectal activity dynamics and experience-dependent behaviour
Authors: Zylbertal Asaph , Bianco Isaac H. 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe ongoing activity of neuronal populations represents an internal brain state that influences how sensory information is processed to control behaviour. Conversely, external sensory inputs perturb network dynamics, resulting in lasting effects that persist beyond the duration of the stimulus. However, the relationship between these dynamics and circuit architecture and their impact on sensory processing, cognition and behaviour are poorly understood. By combining cellular-resolution calcium imaging with mechanistic network modelling, we aimed to infer the spatial and temporal network interactions in the zebrafish optic tectum that shape its ongoing activity and state-dependent responses to visual input. We showed that a simple recurrent network architecture, wherein tectal dynamics are dominated by fast, short range, excitation countered by long-lasting, activity-dependent suppression, was sufficient to explain multiple facets of population activity including intermittent bursting, trial-to-trial sensory response variability and spatially-selective response adaptation. Moreover, these dynamics also predicted behavioural trends such as selective habituation of visually evoked prey-catching responses. Overall, we demonstrate that a mechanistic circuit model, built upon a uniform recurrent connectivity motif, can estimate the incidental state of a dynamic neural network and account for experience-dependent effects on sensory encoding and visually guided behaviour.