Protocol Guidelines Research Articles

Cash Assistance: Addressing COVID-19 Pandemic-induced Poverty

This study employs Edward III's policy implementation theory to examine the implementation of the Social Cash Assistance (BST) program in Gebang Village, Sidoarjo Regency. Utilizing a descriptive qualitative method with data gathered through observation, interviews, and documentation, the research identifies communication, resources, dispositions, and bureaucratic structure as critical factors. The findings reveal that the BST program in Gebang Village has been effectively executed, with robust communication facilitated through coordination meetings and outreach. Human resources, comprising village employees and supporting staff, demonstrate high commitment and operate within health protocol guidelines. Despite optimal implementation, challenges such as limited beneficiaries, social jealousy, and program discontinuation in 2022 are identified. The study underscores the need for addressing these challenges to enhance the program's sustainability and effectiveness. Highlight : The study employs Edward III's policy implementation theory to analyze the optimal execution of the Social Cash Assistance (BST) program in Gebang Village, Sidoarjo Regency. Effective communication strategies, including coordination meetings and program outreach, contribute to the successful implementation of the BST program, ensuring high commitment from the village employees and supporting staff. Identified challenges, such as limited beneficiaries, social jealousy, and the discontinuation of the BST program in 2022, underscore the importance of addressing obstacles for enhanced program sustainability and effectiveness. Keywords: Social Cash Assistance, Implementation, Gebang Village, Policy, Challenges

A protocol and training guidelines for mosquito sampling in remote areas with limited power supply

Mosquito-borne diseases pose a significant threat in many Southeast Asian countries, particularly through the sylvatic cycle, which has a wildlife reservoir in forests and rural areas. Studying the composition and diversity of vectors and pathogen transmission is especially challenging in forests and rural areas due to their remoteness, limited accessibility, lack of power, and underdeveloped infrastructure. This study is based on the WHO mosquito sampling protocol, modifies technical details to support mosquito collection in difficult-to-access and resource-limited areas. Specifically, we describe the procedure for using rechargeable lithium batteries and solar panels to power the mosquito traps, demonstrate a workflow for processing and storing the mosquitoes in a -20 °C freezer, data management tools including microclimate data, and quality assurance processes to ensure the validity and reliability of the results. A pre- and post-test was utilized to measure participant knowledge levels. Additional research is needed to validate this protocol for monitoring vector-borne diseases in hard-to-reach areas within other countries and settings.

Análisis del concepto de Competencia Digital Docente: una revisión sistemática de la literatura

The technological revolution experienced in today’s society has led educational organisations to assume the responsibility of training skills and abilities for this new context. Despite the high degree of complexity within technology-mediated ecosystems, the scientific literature seems to agree that the development of teachers' digital competence is identified to be a key variable of success. The definition of digital competence is however not clearly delineated. Moreover, direct and indirect interactions within this technology-mediated teaching and learning process are not clearly identified. The objective of this study is to define the concept of Digital Teaching Competence through a Systematic Literature Review published between 2017 and 2022, using the Scopus and Dialnet databases. A total of 316 references in English and Spanish were identified, of which 32 were selected for the final analysis, following the PRISMA protocol guidelines. The results confirm the existence of a high degree of conceptual fragmentation, as well as the lack of agreement on the terminology to be used. There is a need to reach a consensus on a taxonomy that facilitates, on one hand, the analysis of the elements that make up Digital Teaching Competence, and on the other hand, the improvement of the capacity to analyse specific contextual variables that contribute to enhancing technology-mediated teaching and learning processes.

Protocol for a systematic review of the management and outcomes in patients with gallbladder agenesis

Abstract Gallbladder agenesis (GA) is a congenital anomaly of the biliary system, with characteristic absence of the gallbladder and cystic duct often with variable clinical presentation. Despite major advances in imaging technology many patients undergo unnecessary operative interventions during which the diagnosis is made. Very little is known on the management and outcomes in this patient population. Therefore, the main objective of this study protocol is to guide a comprehensive review of published cases of GA to evaluate and synthesize research findings on its presentation, management and clinical outcomes. This systematic review will be conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols guidelines. MEDLINE, via PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Google Scholar will be searched for articles on GA in humans (case report and case series) published before 1 October 2022 in English, French and Spanish. Two independent investigators will review each article, determine if it meets inclusion criteria, extract data and assess the study quality. A third investigator will arbitrate studies where there are conflicts between the first two investigators. Short and long-term outcomes will be compared between cases that underwent non-operative versus open versus laparoscopic surgery. Estimates will be made of odds ratios for dichotomous outcomes.

Inclusion of mobile phone usage guidelines in universal hypertension management protocol: an opinion.

Inclusion of mobile phone usage guidelines in universal hypertension management protocol: an opinion.

The value of nanopore sequencing as a diagnostic tool in tuberculous meningitis: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis.

Rapid diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) remains very difficult. Nanopore sequencing is gaining ground in the field of rapid tuberculosis (TB) diagnostics. The purpose of this study was to complete a protocol to guide the conduct of a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating the accuracy of nanopore sequencing for the rapid diagnosis of TBM. In accordance with the Preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines, we completed this protocol, which was also registered on the PROSPERO platform. We will search the EMBASE, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Wanfang database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for literature that evaluated the accuracy of nanopore sequencing for rapid diagnosis of TBM and screen them according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and qualified literature will be extracted with relevant data for further analysis. Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) will be used for evaluating the methodological quality of included studies. Stata (V 15.0; Stata Corp., College Station, TX, the USA) with midas module will be used to perform relevant meta-analysis. Heterogeneity between studies will be assessed by I2 statistics. When significant heterogeneity exists between studies, we will conduct meta-regression analyses, subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses to further explore the sources of heterogeneity. We completed this study protocol, and this systematic review and meta-analysis will be the first systematic evaluation of the role of nanopore sequencing in the rapid diagnosis of TBM, which will allow clinicians to have a better understanding of the test. Systematic review registration PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42024549837.

Association between illegal drug use and cigarette smoking among Ethiopian students: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Cigarette smoking is a persistent public health problem as it is a risk factor for many diseases. Previous studies on the role of illegal drug use in cigarette smoking have yielded disparate and inconclusive results, hindering the development of effective intervention strategies to address this issue. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of cigarette smoking and its associated factors, with a specific focus on the influence of illegal drug use among students in Ethiopia. We conducted a comprehensive search of international databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, CINAHL, African Journals Online, HINARI, Global Health, and Google and Google Scholar. Grey literature was also identified from various university digital libraries. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) guidelines. Due to the high heterogeneity among the included studies (I2 = 98.6%; p-value <0.001), we employed a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval (CI) to estimate the pooled effect using STATA 14 software. The publication bias was assessed using a statistical Egger regression test. A total of 22 studies involving 18,144 students met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of lifetime and current cigarette smoking among students in Ethiopia was 13.8% (95% CI: 9.90-17.82) and 9.61% (95% CI: 7.19-12.03), respectively. Students who used illegal drugs were twenty-three times more likely to smoke cigarettes compared to their counterparts (OR = 23.57, 95% CI: 10.87-51.1). Living in urban settings (OR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.15-7.28) and the habit of alcohol consumption (OR = 4.79; 95% CI: 1.57-14.64) were also identified as factors associated with cigarette smoking. We found that more than one in eight students in Ethiopia have engaged in lifetime cigarette smoking. Notably, students who used illegal drugs exhibited a significantly higher likelihood of cigarette smoking. In light of these findings, it is imperative to implement comprehensive public health interventions that target illegal drug use, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption, with a particular emphasis on urban residents.

Distance interventions for enhancing preparedness in informal caregivers of older adults: A systematic review protocol.

Informal caregivers provide care to older adults but report lack of preparedness to enact the role. Intervention programs delivered by distance offer one alternative to support preparedness. Three review studies conducted to date have highlighted the benefits of distance interventions for enhancing preparedness among informal caregivers of older adults. However, these reviews have been limited in presenting and discussing how intervention components influenced outcomes. Additionally, they have not compared different distance delivery approaches for informal caregivers of older adults or assessed their varying impact on preparedness outcomes. These limitations make the effectiveness of diverse distance approaches unclear. To evaluate the effects of distance interventions aimed at enhancing preparedness among informal caregivers of older adults. This protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines and is guided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. It has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023400668). Databases used in the search will include CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, and ProQuest Theses and Dissertations Global. The search will not be restricted by publication year to include all relevant studies. Studies published in English and Portuguese will be included. Study quality will be assessed using Downs and Black's checklist. If metanalysis is possible, it will be performed using the ReviewManager (RevMan) software. The study will be the first of its type to systematically review and synthesize components and approaches of distance interventions aimed at supporting preparedness of informal caregivers of older adults.

DATA COLLECTION PROTOCOL FOR ORAL CORPUS OF MAJOR DEPRESSION DISORDER PATIENT

The collecting of oral data involving mental health patients in hospitals demands research ethics approval to mitigate risks or harm towards participants of the study. The appointment of psychiatric experts as clinical supervisors is imperative to facilitate the process of data collection through interviews, particularly with patients diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The process of obtaining permission to access hospitals and interview patients involves research ethics approval from the Research Management and Innovation Centre, Sultan Idris Education University (RMIC-UPSI), and the Research Ethics Committee of the University of Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC-MREC). A total of 35 MDD patients were interviewed according to the study protocol and interview guidelines. The interview protocol is also subject to the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988 (Act 342) due to the Covid-19 pandemic in Malaysia. The transcribed interview data can amount to 65,894 words when extracted into WordSmith 8.0 software. Overall, this data collection process encompasses, appointment of psychiatric experts as clinical supervisors, research ethics approval and field data collection protocols.

Dual RNA-seq Analysis of Patients' Cells and Viral Genome After Measles Infection.

During the infection of a host cell by an infectious agent, a series of gene expression changes occurs as a consequence of host-pathogen interactions. Unraveling this complex interplay is the key for understanding of microbial virulence and host response pathways, thus providing the basis for new molecular insights into the mechanisms of pathogenesis and the corresponding immune response. Dual RNA sequencing (dual RNA-seq) has been developed to simultaneously determine pathogen and host transcriptomes enabling both differential and coexpression analyses between the two partners as well as genome characterization in the case of RNA viruses. Here, we provide a detailed laboratory protocol and bioinformatics analysis guidelines for dual RNA-seq experiments focusing on - but not restricted to - measles virus (MeV) as a pathogen of interest. The application of dual RNA-seq technologies in MeV-infected patients can potentially provide valuable information on the structure of the viral RNA genome and on cellular innate immune responses and drive the discovery of new targets for antiviral therapy.

Abortion stigma among abortion seekers, healthcare professionals and the public in high-income countries: A mixed-methods systematic review protocol

IntroductionAbortion is a crucial sexual and reproductive right. However, the legal situation of pregnancy termination is rather heterogeneous across countries and regions. The political climate and cultural perception may result...

Diacylglycerol Signaling in Retinal Ganglion Cells.

With impaired retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function and eventual RGC death, there is a heightened risk of experiencing glaucoma-induced blindness or other optic neuropathies. Poor RGC efficiency leads to limited transmission of visual signals between the retina and the brain by RGC axons. Increased focus on studying lipid messengers found in neurons such as endocannabinoids (eCBs) has importance due to their potential axonal pathway regenerative properties. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), a common eCB, is synthesized from an sn-1 hydrolysis reaction between diacylglycerol (DAG) and diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL). Examination of DAG production allows for future downstream analysis in relation to DAGL functionality. Here, we describe protocol guidelines for extracting RGCs from mouse retinas and subsequent mass spectrometry analysis of the DAG content present within the RGCs.

Association of carotid intima–media thickness and dyslipidaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes: a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionPatients with diabetes mellitus (DM) often present with comorbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia, insulin resistance, obesity and hyperglycaemia, which increases their risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)-related mortality. Carotid intima–media thickness...

Investing Neonatal Septic Arthritis: A Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: Septic arthritis is an uncommon condition in neonates. It is a serious disorder, especially because of the possibility of sequelae, if not identified and treated early. In addition, due to the rarity of this condition in neonates and the paucity of signs and symptoms, the diagnosis of septic arthritis is more difficult in older children. The published literature is limited to case series, which is why the purpose of this systematic review is to provide a comprehensive summary of neonatal septic arthritis based on the existing literature. This study identifies the changing trends over time, specifically focusing on intravenous cannulation as a major risk factor that led to the undertaking of the study. Methods: The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses protocol guidelines were used in this study. Three search engines were used for 239 articles. A total of 26 studies were screened in full text, of which 16 articles underwent quantitative analysis. Due to limited data and heterogeneous reporting, the data were summarized descriptively. Results: The total number of babies and joints studied was 307 and 313, respectively, of which the proportion of male babies was mentioned in 12 case series, accounting for 136(228) (60% [42%-71%]) subjects. The most common presenting symptoms were swelling at the involved joint, erythema, and decreased range of motion in variable order. The most common site of involvement was the hip joint (42%), followed by the knee joint (27%). Staphylococcus aureus (40%) was the most commonly cultured pathogen, followed by Klebsiella (18%). Antibiotics were reported in only 12% (38 babies) of the cases. Open surgery was performed on 16% of the 49 babies. The rest of the babies responded to joint aspiration and irrigation, with or without immobilization. Prompt laboratory and radiographic evaluations could help reduce delays in diagnosis and improve outcomes. Blood and tissue cultures were positive in most of the cases. Previous culture reports for the same unit guide the addition of empirical antibiotics. Conclusions: In our case series, the majority of the babies were premature. The most common joint involved is the hip joint. The most common underlying cause is sepsis and catheterization. Intravenous canulation is also a major risk factor because of the continuity of metaphysis and epiphysial vessels. The most common presenting symptom is local signs. Unexplained fever and irritability make it better to look for a local examination of joints. Follow-up is mandatory as a long-term sequel is more.

Implementation of the development of health protocol guidelines for face-to-face learning in the new adaptation period

Implementation of the development of health protocol guidelines for face-to-face learning in the new adaptation period

Integrated Care and Social Protection for Senior Citizens In West Africa: A Scoping Review

Background: West Africa's population is aging at a rapid rate, and the prevalence of older adults with multiple chronic conditions is rising. However, there is little information available about healthcare policies for this age group in this region ten years after the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing (MIPAA). To manage the physical and psychosocial needs of senior citizens, a greater integration of healthcare services is required.&#x0D; Methods: A scoping review was conducted adhering to the Joana Briggs Institute’s systematic scoping review protocol guidelines. A simple search strategy was developed to collate relevant articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, and AJOL, as well as policy databases, between 2002 and 2022. Articles were included if published in English and related to primary care, social care, and multi-morbidity among older persons in West Africa.&#x0D; Results: The findings yielded three thematic issues. First, most West African countries have policies on healthy aging; however, only a few have coherent policies on access to healthcare for older people and the availability of social safety nets, highlighting the need for policymakers to provide coherence and avenues for integration. Secondly, while integration of non-communicable disease services focuses on individual-level services rather than multi-sectoral integration, there is also a poor focus on mental health and sexual and reproductive health integration. Finally the inherent capacity development needs and technical up-skilling requirements require a whole-system approach with contextual nuances.&#x0D; Conclusion: The literature is increasingly recognizing an aging population and the prevalence of multi-morbidity in West Africa. Countries in West Africa, in response to the MIPAA, have formulated policies with regards to older persons' healthcare needs; however, improvements in clinical care at the individual setting level may not be sufficient. A deliberate whole-system approach that fosters multi-sectoral collaboration for integrated healthcare might go a long way toward better outcomes for senior citizens and a step forward toward universal health coverage.

Prevalence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis along the continuum of pulmonary tuberculosis care: A protocol for a living systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a debilitating disease estimated to affect over 3 million people worldwide. Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is the most significant risk factor for CPA. However, the true burden of CPA at the time of PTB diagnosis, during, and after PTB treatment remains unknown. In this paper, we present a protocol for a living systematic review aimed at estimating the current burden of CPA along the continuum of PTB care. Materials and methods We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines to formulate this protocol, which is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO: CRD42023453900). We will identify primary literature through various electronic databases, including CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE, MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and African Journal Online. The search will encompass articles from inception to December 31st, 2023, using medical subject heading search terms "pulmonary tuberculosis" AND "chronic pulmonary aspergillosis". Two reviewers will independently assess titles, abstracts, and full texts for eligibility using the Covidence web-based software. The eligible studies will comprise original observational research that reports on the prevalence of CPA diagnosed in individuals with PTB, based on established criteria, without language or geographic restriction. We intend to exclude single case reports and case series with fewer than 10 participants, as well as review articles, guidelines, and letters to the editors. Cochrane Risk of Bias Tools (ROB2 and ROBINS-I) will used to assess study quality and risk of bias and the quality of the evidence will be rated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) tool. Our data syntheses will encompass meta-analysis and meta-regression, conducted using STATA version 18 and R- Studio version 4.0.2. This systematic review will be updated every 3–5 years as more data emerges. Conclusions The findings of this proposed systematic review will summarize the available evidence on the occurrence of CPA, at the time of PTB diagnosis, during and after PTB treatment. The study results have the potential to guide healthcare policies regarding screening for CPA, enhance clinical decision-making, and catalyse further research into understanding the interplay between PTB and CPA. By shedding light on the current burden of CPA along the continuum of PTB care, we aspire to contribute to the betterment of patient care, disease management, and global health outcomes. PROSPERO registration CRD42023453900.

Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of uropathogens in Karachi, Pakistan

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the major healthcare concerns causing an alarmingly high medical and financial burden in both developing and developed countries. There is a significant rise in multidrug-resistant (MDR) uropathogens, both in hospitalized and community settings, which threatens safe and effective therapy of these infections. The increased rates of resistance in UTIs requires the continuous surveillance of uropathogens in the specific area to inform safe and effective therapy. The present, retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out using samples collected between 01/06/2019 and 31/05/2020 in Karachi, Pakistan, during which, n = 1500 urine samples were collected. The samples were processed on Cystine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) agar, identification was carried out by using standard biochemical tests and API 20E/20NE strips. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using standard disk diffusion test protocol, as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Overall, n = 1189 urine samples (79.27%) showed significant bacterial growth. The median age of affected patients was 56 years (range: 1-100) with n = 811 females (68.21%), with patients between 61-80 years (n = 384; 32.29%) as the most numerous age group. Regarding uropathogen distribution, the overwhelming majority were Gram-negative bacteria (n = 986; 82.93%), the most common causative agent being Escherichia coli (n = 648; 54.49%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (n = 206; 17.33%) and Enterococcus spp. (n = 118; 9.92%). Resistance rates were highest for the tested fluoroquinolones (&gt;70% for most species), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, broad-spectrum penicillins, and cephalosporins, while fosfomycin, carbapenems and colistin largely retained their efficacy. The mitigation of UTIs and the emergence of resistance may be impeded by taking appropriate measures for the better management of patients; these interventions include improvements in the treatment recommendations, provision of health education, and continuous antimicrobial surveillance.

Efficacy of different courses of acupuncture for diarrhea irritable bowel syndrome: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder. As one of the most common subtypes of IBS, IBS-D can impair the patients’ quality of life (QOL) and decreased work productivity. Acupuncture may be a potential treatment for patients with IBS-D. However, the treatment course of acupuncture was diverse. It is unclear what is the optimal acupuncture treatment courses for acupuncture. The efficacy and safety of different courses of acupuncture for IBS-D have not been systematically evaluated yet. The purpose of this study is to evaluate effectiveness of Acupuncture of different courses in the treatment of IBS-D and provide sufficient evidence for clinical recommendations for IBS-D. We will follow the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines to design the protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023418846). We will include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which the efficacy of Acupuncture is compared with a placebo, sham acupuncture or Pinaverium bromide in the treatment of IBS-D with no language restrictions. The outcomes of interest will be efficiency rate and the Symptoms Severity Score. RCTs will be searched in the electronic database and Clinical Trials Registry Platform from inception to April 2023. Two independent reviewers will independently select studies, extract data from the included studies, and assess the risk of bias using the Cochrane tool. We will choose a random or fixed-effects model based on the heterogeneity index. We will use the relative risk and mean difference to estimate data with 95% CI. A stratified meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of different treatment courses of Acupuncture: 2weeks, 4weeks(or 1 months), 6 weeks, and 8 weeks. If there is significant clinical and methodological heterogeneity, we will look for the reason for heterogeneity and perform a subgroup analysis. According to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), we will evaluate the evidence quality and provide the recommendation’s strength.

Acute kidney injury surveillance in the high-risk neonatal population following implementation of creatinine screening protocol.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) in neonates is associated with longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates. However, there is significant variability in prevalence rates of AKI and the true burden is incompletely understood. In November 2020, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit implemented a creatinine screening protocol to enhance kidney function monitoring. We sought to evaluate adherence to the protocol to determine if increased surveillance led to increased detection of AKI events. A retrospective chart review was conducted for neonates born at <30 weeks' gestation admitted between 2015 and 2020. We reviewed 100 charts in both the pre (2015-2016) and post (2020-2021) implementation era of the AKI surveillance protocol. AKI was defined according to neonatal modified KDIGO criteria. Following implementation of the protocol, neonates were significantly more likely to have creatinine checked (p < 0.001). Serum creatinine was drawn according to protocol guidelines 68% of the time, and 42% of patients (34/82) had an 80% or higher adherence to the protocol. There was a significant increase in detection of AKI in the post-protocol cohort (13/82, incidence of 16%) compared to the pre-protocol cohort (5/83, incidence of 6%), (p = 0.047). The implementation of a serum creatinine screening protocol increased the frequency of creatinine draws and detection of AKI.