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In recent decades, sociologists have generally avoided explicitly discussing the role of culture in processes of social inequality. We argue that the prevailing disciplinary theory of inequality, the framework laid out in Charles Tilly's Durable Inequality, necessarily relies on cognitive processes and cultural concepts. The four primary mechanisms driving inequality—exploitation, opportunity hoarding, emulation, and adaptation—involve justification, categorization, coordination, and (e)valuation. We survey research on social inequality that illustrates each of these four processes. Our review reveals important empirical patterns about how disparities between groups emerge and endure. We observe that while sociologists often conduct work that implicitly relies on cultural concepts, other social science disciplines are also doing vital work in this area because they engage directly with cultural concepts. We identify key areas where sociologists are well positioned to use cultural concepts to uncover important findings regarding inequality, as well as to propose interventions for mitigating or preventing inequality.

Background Prevalence of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) has been associated with availability of alcohol. This paper investigates potential associations between prevalent cases of chlamydia in young people in Australia and the availability of alcohol within their local area, defined as postcode of residence. Methods Alcohol availability was determined at the postcode level using liquor licensing data, classified as total number of licences, number of ‘take-away’ licences and number of licenses by population. Participant data were drawn from a survey targeting Australians aged 16–29 years in rural and regional Australia, capturing demographic details including postcode of residence, indicators of sexual behaviour including condom use and chlamydia test results. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to examine potential associations between first, alcohol availability and chlamydia, and second, between condom use and chlamydia. Results We found little evidence of associations between alcohol availability and chlamydia in either unadjusted or adjusted models. After adjusting for alcohol availability, we observed significant associations between inconsistent condom use and chlamydia prevalence, whether alcohol availability was measured as total number (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.20; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20, 3.70), number of take-away licenses (AOR 2.19; 95% CI 1.30, 3.69) or licenses per 1000 population (AOR 2.19; 95% CI 1.30, 3.68). Conclusion Little evidence of association between alcohol availability and chlamydia at the postcode level was found. Further research is required to determine appropriate measures of ‘local area’ and how characteristics thereof may impact on sexual health.

This is a protocol for a rapid review of the literature, using WHO Rapid Review Methods, to investigate the the impact of spinal manipulation on the immune system. Principal investigator: Pierre Côté, Faculty of Health Sciences and Centre for Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation at Ontario Tech University and CMCC, Ontario Tech University, Faculty of Health Sciences, 2000 Simcoe St N, Oshawa, ON L1G 0C5 Review team members: Pierre Côté, Carol Cancelliere, Silvano Mior, Ngai Chow, Anne Taylor-Vaisey, Stephen Injeyan, Julita Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. David Cassidy

We will conduct a systematic rapid review of the literature to determine the effectiveness and safety of non-pharmacological interventions delivered through synchronous telehealth compared to non-pharmacological interventions delivered in-person on clinical and functional outcomes for the management of patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

This is the protocol for a systematic review of the quantitative and qualitative evidence on the effectiveness and user experiences of digitally delivered sleep interventions used to improve sleep and mental health outcomes in post-secondary students.

This is the protocol for a systematic review on the psychometric properties, minimal clinically important difference, and minimal detectable change of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule in persons with non-specific low back pain

Preregistering assumptions and hypotheses for an experiment on a topic model of English-language fiction.

We discuss the politics of contemporary German sociology.

SummaryPiezo1 is the stretch activated Ca2+ channel in red blood cells that mediates homeostatic volume control. Here we study the organization of Piezo1 in red blood cells using a combination of super resolution microscopy techniques and electron microscopy. Piezo1 adopts a non- uniform distribution on the red blood cell surface, with a bias towards the biconcave “dimple”. Trajectories of diffusing Piezo1 molecules, which exhibit confined Brownian diffusion on short timescales and hopping on long timescales, also reflect a bias towards the dimple. This bias can be explained by “curvature coupling” between the intrinsic curvature of the Piezo dome and the curvature of the red blood cell membrane. Piezo1 does not form clusters with itself, nor does it co-localize with F-actin, Spectrin or the Gardos channel. Thus, Piezo1 exhibits the properties of a force-through-membrane sensor of curvature and lateral tension in the red blood cell.

ObjectivesIn November 2020, a series of reports, In Plain Sight, described widespread Indigenous-specific stereotyping, racism and discrimination limiting access to medical treatment and negatively impacting the health and wellness of Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia, Canada. To address the health inequalities experienced by Indigenous peoples, Indigenous healing practices must be integrated within the delivery of care. This rapid scoping review aimed to identify and synthesise strategies used to integrate Indigenous healing practices within collaborative care models available in community-based primary healthcare, delivered by regulated health professionals in Canada.Eligibility criteriaWe included quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies conducted in community-based primary healthcare practices that used strategies to integrate Indigenous healing practices within collaborative care models.Sources of evidenceWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, Indigenous Studies Portal, Informit Indigenous Collection and Native Health Database for studies published from 2015 to 2021.Charting methodsOur data extraction used three frameworks to categorise the findings. These frameworks defined elements of integrated healthcare (ie, functional, organisational, normative and professional), culturally appropriate primary healthcare and the extent of community engagement. We narratively summarised the included study characteristics.ResultsWe identified 2573 citations and included 31 in our review. Thirty-nine per cent of reported strategies used functional integration (n=12), 26% organisational (n=8), 19% normative (n=6) and 16% professional (n=5). Eighteen studies (58%) integrated all characteristics of culturally appropriate Indigenous healing practices into primary healthcare. Twenty-four studies (77%) involved Indigenous leadership or collaboration at each phase of the study and, seven (23%) included consultation only or the level of engagement was unclear.ConclusionsWe found that collaborative and Indigenous-led strategies were more likely to facilitate and implement the integration of Indigenous healing practices. Commonalities across strategies included community engagement, elder support or Indigenous ceremony or traditions. However, we did not evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies.

This paper studies the impacts of the large-scale Road Sector Development Program in Ethiopia between 1997 and 2016 on local economic activity and land cover (urbanization and cropland). It exploits spatial and temporal variation in road upgrades across Ethiopia, together with high-resolution panel data derived from satellite imagery. The findings show that road upgrades contributed to increases in local economic activity, as proxied by nighttime lights and urban land area. However, there is significant heterogeneity in the results across baseline levels of economic activity. Specifically, gains from road upgrades are concentrated in areas with moderate-to-high initial levels of economic activity. By contrast, there was little, or even negative, growth in areas with low levels of initial economic activity. Finally, the findings show that road upgrades contributed to a reduction in cropland in areas with medium-to-high baseline nighttime lights. The results suggest that Ethiopia's ambitious road infrastructure development program overall increased local economic activity and urbanization, but that it also had important distributional implications that need to be taken into account when planning such infrastructure programs.

Australia introduced 'lockdown' measures to control COVID-19 on 22 March 2020 which continued for a period of two months. We aimed to investigate the impact this had on sexual and reproductive health (SRH).Australians aged 18+ were eligible to participate in an online survey from 23 April to 11 May 2020. We report on the experiences of 518 female participants aged50 years. Pregnancy intentions and contraceptive use were analysed using descriptive statistics. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to investigate difficulty accessing SRH products and services. Qualitative data were analysed using conventional content analysis.Most participants were aged 18-24 years, and indicated they were trying to avoid pregnancy. The oral contraceptive pill was the most common single method used however nearly 20% reported they were not using contraception. Women who were employed had less trouble accessing contraception during lockdown. Participants reported delaying childbearing or deciding to remain childfree due to COVID-19.COVID-19 lockdown impacted the SRH of Australian women. Findings highlight the importance of continued access to SRH services and products during global emergencies.

ObjectivesPatient-delivered partner therapy (PDPT) is a method for providing antibiotic treatment for the sexual partners of an index patient with an STI by means of a prescription or medication that the index patient gives to their sexual partner(s). Qualitative research regarding barriers and enablers to PDPT has largely focused on the views of healthcare providers. In this study, we sought to investigate the views of young people (as potential health consumers) regarding PDPT for chlamydia.MethodsSemi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with young Australian men and women. Participants were asked to provide their views regarding PDPT from the perspective of both an index patient and partner. Purposive and snowball sampling was used. Data were analysed thematically.ResultsWe interviewed 22 people (13 women, 9 men) aged 18–30 years, 15 of whom had previously been tested for chlamydia. Despite none having previous knowledge of or experience using PDPT, all viewed it positively and thought it should be widely available. Participants reported that they would be willing to give PDPT to their sexual partners in situations where trust and comfort had been established, regardless of the relationship type. Protecting their partners’ privacy was essential, with participants expressing reluctance to provide their partners’ contact details to a doctor without consent. Beyond logistical benefits, PDPT was viewed as a facilitator to partner notification conversations by offering partners a potential solution. However, most interviewees indicated a preference to consult with a healthcare provider (GP or pharmacist) before taking PDPT medication. Participants indicated that legitimacy of information when navigating a chlamydia diagnosis was crucial and was preferably offered by healthcare providers.ConclusionsThough PDPT is unlikely to fully replace partners’ interactions with healthcare providers, it may facilitate partner notification conversations and provide partners greater choice on how, when and where they are treated.

No standardized guideline for the reporting of outcomes measures in randomized controlled trials of rehabilitation interventions is currently available. This study includes four phases to identify, synthesize, and make recommendations for potential attributes of reporting criteria of outcome measures in rehabilitation randomized controlled trials. First, we surveyed the author instructions for rehabilitation journals to determine how journals require authors to report outcomes. Second, we reviewed all consolidated standards of reporting trials extensions to determine how other speciality groups require reporting of outcomes in randomized controlled trials. Third, we conducted a focused scoping review to examine the nature and variations of criteria used to evaluate the quality of outcome measures in randomized controlled trials. Finally, we synthesized the information from phases 1-3 and propose four criteria specific to the reporting of outcomes in randomized controlled trials of rehabilitation interventions: (1) clearly describe the construct to be measured as outcome(s); (2) justify the selection of outcome measures by mapping to World Health Organization International Classification of Function, Disability, and Health (International Classification of Functioning) framework; justify the psychometric properties (relevance, validity, reliability) of the selected measurement tool; (3) clearly describe the timing of outcome measurement, with consideration of the health condition, the course of disease, and hypothesized effect of intervention; and (4) complete and unselective reporting of outcome data.

It is well-known that the more educated people are, the more liberal views they tend to express. However, it is unclear whether this is due to college attendance itself or because those who go to college differ from those who do not in ways (directly or indirectly) related to their later political identification. In this paper, we therefore attempt to estimate the effect of college on political identification net of people’s tendencies to select into college using an inverse probability of treatment weighting approach. Based on data from the General Social Survey, we analyze how this effect has changed over time and whether college affects the political identification of women in the same ways as that of men. We find evidence consistent with the argument that college attendance politicizes both men and women. Moreover, we show that not only the general, but also the gender specific effects change markedly across the decades. This raises questions about the different mechanisms at play in how college mobilizes men and women politically.

A growing body of literature suggests that contraceptives' impact on sexual experiences influences willingness to initiate and continue with a method. Little is known, however, about how clinicians engage with clients on this topic during contraceptive consultations. Fifteen clinicians in South Eastern Australia participated in semi-structured interviews between April and June 2019. Interviews were analysed using inductive, semantic thematic analysis. Participants varied in their evaluation and management of contraceptives' sexual side effects and the legitimacy given to women's bodily experience versus their own understanding of the evidence in the medical literature. We identified two distinct groups of clinicians: those who prioritised sexual wellbeing as a primary issue in contraceptive consultations and those who perceived sexual wellbeing as a secondary concern. The difference in practices was influenced by whether participants considered sexual wellbeing to be part of holistic care provision and their views on the clinician's role in raising the topic. Strategies to equip clinicians to integrate sexual wellbeing into contraceptive consultations include interactive clinical training and incorporating information about sexual side effects into contraceptive guidelines and client resources. Benefits gained from normalising sexual wellbeing could extend beyond contraceptive care to help clinicians address clients' sexual wellbeing in other contexts.

To determine the measurement properties and minimal important change (MIC) of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) short (12 questions) and full (36 questions) versions in persons with nonspecific low back pain (LBP).MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, APA PsycInfo, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (inception to May 2021).Eligible studies assessed measurement properties or MIC of WHODAS 2.0 in persons with LBP.Paired reviewers screened articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using Consensus-Based Standards for Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) and COSMIN-Outcome Measures in Rheumatology checklists.We descriptively synthesized results stratified by measurement property and LBP duration (subacute: 6 weeks to 3 months; chronic: ≥3 months).We screened 297 citations and included 14 studies (reported in 15 articles). Methodological quality of studies was very good for internal consistency and varied between very good and doubtful for construct validity, doubtful for responsiveness, and adequate for all other properties assessed. Evidence suggests that WHODAS 2.0 full version has adequate content validity (2 studies); WHODAS 2.0 short and full versions have adequate structural validity (3 studies), but construct validity is indeterminate (9 studies). WHODAS 2.0 short and full versions have adequate internal consistency (10 studies), and the full version has adequate test-retest and interrater reliability (3 studies) in persons with LBP. Minimal detectable change (MDC) was 10.45-13.99 of 100 for the full version and 8.6 of 48 for the short version in persons with LBP (4 studies). WHODAS 2.0 full version has no floor or ceiling effects, but the short version has potential floor effects in persons with chronic LBP (3 studies). One study estimated MIC for the full version as 4.87 of 100 or 9.74 of 100 (corresponding to 1- and 2-point change on 0- to 10-cm visual analog scale for pain, respectively), and 1 study estimated 3.09-4.68 of 48 for the short version.In persons with LBP, WHODAS 2.0 full version has adequate content validity, structural validity, internal consistency, and reliability. WHODAS 2.0 short version has adequate structural validity and internal consistency. Construct validity of the short and full versions is indeterminate. Since MDC is estimated to be larger than MIC, users may consider both MIC and MDC thresholds to measure change in functioning for LBP.

Objective To describe the best evidence on the effectiveness of technology-based learning tools designed to improve knowledge of health care providers about clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Methods We conducted a systematic review, searching MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL from inception to July 2018. Included studies investigated the effectiveness of any technology-based learning tools developed to improve knowledge of health care providers about CPGs. We used a 2-phase screening process to determine eligibility. Pairs of reviewers critically appraised relevant studies using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklist for randomized controlled trials or the National Institutes of Health checklist for pre- and postintervention trials. Evidence from internally valid studies was described using a best-evidence summary. We conducted a sensitivity analysis to determine whether results varied according to methodological quality. Results Twenty-five of 8321 articles met our selection criteria. Six studies had a low risk of bias and were included in this review. Spaced education was associated with improvement in knowledge; however, its effectiveness relative to other interventions is unknown. Module-based online educational interventions were associated with improvement in knowledge of CPGs; however, they may not be more effective than paper-based self-learning or in-person workshops. The sensitivity analysis determined that the evidence was similar between the high and low risk of bias studies. Conclusion Module-based- and spaced-education interventions may be beneficial for improving health care providers' knowledge of CPGs; however, much of the evidence toward their use is preliminary.

BACKGROUND: The majority of research on patient-delivered partner therapy (PDPT) has focused on its impact on reinfections. This study aimed to systematically review the evidence regarding the acceptability of PDPT by patients and partners for chlamydia infection. METHODS: Three electronic databases were searched in March 2019 using terms related to PDPT. Studies were included if they reported on patient or partner acceptance of PDPT for chlamydia and were conducted in high-income countries. Actual and perceived acceptabilities of PDPT were assessed. RESULTS: Thirty-three studies were included: 24 quantitative, 3 qualitative, and 6 mixed methods. Most were clinic based. Quantitative data showed that participants' perceived willingness to give PDPT to their partner(s) ranged from 44.7% to 96.3% (median, 84%), and 24% to 71% (median, 65%) of people who offered PDPT for their partner(s) accepted it. Partners' perceived willingness to accept ranged from 42.7% to 67% (median, 62%), and actual acceptance ranged from 44.7% to 80% (median, 77%). Those in longer-term relationships were generally more likely to accept PDPT; however, beyond this, we identified few clear trends. Qualitative studies found that convenience of PDPT and assurance of partner treatment were benefits, whereas partners not seeing a health care professional was viewed as a downside. Packaging that appeared legitimate and coaching on delivering PDPT were facilitators. CONCLUSIONS: Because patients bear responsibility for the success of PDPT, this information is crucial in clinical settings. Acceptance, perceived and real, of PDPT was generally high. Patients are best placed to determine whether PDPT is appropriate for them, and it should be offered as an option.

Young women in Australia disproportionately experience unintended pregnancy and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). As the promotion of highly effective pregnancy prevention methods such as long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) increases, concurrent use of condoms with LARC remains optimal for pregnancy and STI prevention. There is little data exploring condom use behaviour in young Australian women using LARC. In this qualitative study we interviewed twenty women using LARC about their experiences of making decisions regarding condom use. We used inductive thematic analysis to identify factors influencing participant decision-making. We found that while LARC had an impact on condom use and sexual practices, decisions regarding condom use were influenced by multiple factors including mood, menstrual changes related to LARC, and relationship dynamics. Participants' views of 'safe sex' extended beyond pregnancy and STI protection, to include desired outcomes such as pleasure, consent and communication. Access to STI testing and treatment was key to how participants managed STI risk. Findings highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to safer sex health promotion, and the importance of ensuring STI testing and treatment services continue to be available and accessible to all young people.

To update the findings of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000–2010 Task Force on Neck Pain and Its Associated Disorders (Neck Pain Task Force) on prognostic factors for whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) outcomes. We conducted a systematic review and best-evidence synthesis. We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO from 2000–2017. Random pairs of reviewers critically appraised eligible studies using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network criteria. We retrieved 10,081 articles. Of those, 100 met inclusion criteria. After critical appraisal, 74 were judged to have low risk of bias. This adds to the 47 admissible studies found by the Neck Pain Task Force. Twenty-two related to course of recovery; 59 to prognostic factors in recovery; and 16 reported other WADs outcomes. Some studies related to more than one category. Findings suggest that half of those with WADs will experience substantial improvement within three months and cessation of symptoms within six months. Among factors associated with recovery are post-crash psychological factors, including expectations for recovery and coping. Our review adds to the Neck Pain Task Force by clarifying the role of prognostic factors. Evidence supports the important role of post-crash psychological factors in WADs recovery. CRD42013004610

Background During 2020, the State of Victoria (Australia) experienced two COVID-19 waves. Both resulted in community lockdowns followed by eased restrictions. We examined variation of sexual behaviour in Victorians over time during COVID-19. Methods We conducted a repeated online survey at four timepoints corresponding with two lockdown (LD1, LD2) and two reduced restriction (RR1, RR2) periods in Victoria. A convenience sample of participants aged ≥18 years was recruited via social media and asked about their recent (past 4 weeks) sexual behaviour. Using multivariable logistic regression, we investigated variation in sexual behaviour between surveys. Results A total of 1828 surveys were completed; 72% identified as female, 69% were aged 18–29 years, 90% were metropolitan residents. The proportion reporting recent partnered sex ranged from 54.9% (LD2) to 70.2% (RR1). Across all timepoints, the most common sexual partners were regular (81.5%, n = 842) and 10.8% (n = 111) reported casual partners (e.g. hook-ups). Compared with LD1, respondents were >2-fold more likely to report casual partner(s) during reduced restrictions (RR1: aOR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.7; RR2: aOR 2.8; 95% CI 1.3–5.9). Across all timepoints, 26.6% (n = 486) reported using dating apps. Compared with LD1, dating app use for face-to-face activities (e.g. dates, hook-ups) was >4-fold higher during reduced restrictions (RR1: aOR 4.3; 95% CI 2.3–8.0; RR2: aOR 4.1; 95% CI 1.9–8.8). App use for distanced activities (e.g. sexting, virtual dates) was highest during LD1 (48.8%) than other periods. Conclusions In this convenience sample, self-reported sexual behaviours fluctuated between lockdowns and reduced restrictions. While dating apps may provide a mechanism for virtual connections, this may be temporary until physical connections are possible.

Background With over 11 million people incarcerated globally, prevention and control of COVID-19 in custodial settings is a critical component of the public health response. Given the risk of rapid transmission in these settings, it is important to know what guidance existed for responding to COVID-19 in the early stages of the pandemic. We sought to identify, collate, and summarise guidance for the prevention and control of COVID-19 in custodial settings in the first six months of 2020. We conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed and grey literature, and manually searched relevant websites to identify publications up to 30 June 2020 outlining recommendations to prevent and/or control COVID-19 in custodial settings. We inductively developed a coding framework and assessed recommendations using conventional content analysis. Results We identified 201 eligible publications containing 374 unique recommendations across 19 domains including: preparedness; physical environments; case identification, screening, and management; communication; external access and visitation; psychological and emotional support; recreation, legal, and health service adaptation; decarceration; release and community reintegration; workforce logistics; surveillance and information sharing; independent monitoring; compensatory measures; lifting control measures; evaluation; and key populations/settings. We identified few conflicting recommendations. Conclusions The breadth of recommendations identified in this review reflects the complexity of COVID-19 response in custodial settings. Despite the availability of comprehensive guidance early in the pandemic, important gaps remain in the implementation of recommended prevention and control measures globally, and in the availability of evidence assessing their effectiveness on reducing COVID-19 disease, impact on people in custody and staff, and implementation.

Recent developments in cultural sociology show that our field remains entrenched in a troubling pattern. As Lizardo (2014) demonstrated, sociologists have a pathological relationship to interdisciplinarity. We tend to create internal “avatars” of other disciplines rather than working with them directly. This fools us into thinking that we’re interdisciplinary when, in reality, “[t]hese subdisciplinary avatars have been created by sociologists for sociological consumption” (Lizardo 2014: 985). Little has changed in the past seven years. In this paper, I will briefly examine one recent case - values - where some sociologists are actively resisting interdisciplinary engagement. I argue that most of their objections are unfounded. I then examine other, less obvious, mechanisms that discourage cultural sociologists from interdisciplinary dialogue.

Background Patient delivered partner therapy (PDPT) refers to the process in which antibiotic treatment for chlamydia infection is prescribed or provided to an index case to pass onto their sexual partner/s. Since 2015, health authority guidance for PDPT has been provided in some areas of Australia. However evidence regarding PDPT use in Australia are limited. We investigated recent use and perceptions of PDPT for chlamydia among general practitioners (GPs) working in Australia. Methods During 2019 we conducted an online survey comprising multiple-choice and open-ended questions to investigate GPs’ chlamydia management practices, including PDPT. We conducted logistic regression to identify factors associated with offering PDPT and directed content analysis of free-text data to explore GPs’ perceptions towards PDPT. Results A total of 323 GPs responded to the survey, 85.8% (n=277) answered PDPT-focused questions, providing 628 free-text comments. Over half (53.4%) reported never offering PDPT while 36.5% sometimes and 10.1% often offered PDPT. GPs more likely to offer PDPT were aged ≥55 years (adjusted odds ratio, AOR 2.8, 95%CI 1.4–5.7), worked in non-metropolitan areas (AOR 2.5, 95%CI 1.5–4.4) and in Australian States/Territories with health authority PDPT guidance (AOR 2.3, 95%CI 1.4–3.9). Qualitative data showed many GPs recognised PDPT’s potential to treat difficult to engage partners but expressed hesitancy to offer PDPT because they considered it best practice for partners to attend care. A case-by-case approach that considered patient and partner circumstances to determine PDPT suitability was emphasised. Many GPs indicated a need for professional and health authority guidance that PDPT is permissible and practical resources to support its use. Conclusions GPs appear to accept the place of PDPT as targeted to those who may otherwise not access testing or treatment Availability of health authority guidance appears to have supported some GPs to incorporate PDPT into their practice.

Sleep problems are common and may be associated with persistent pain. It is unclear whether non-pharmacological interventions improve sleep and pain in adults with comorbid sleep problems and musculoskeletal (MSK) pain. We conducted a systematic review on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions on sleep characteristics among adults with MSK pain and comorbid sleep problems. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central and PsycINFO from inception to April 2, 2021 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort, and case-control studies. Pairs of independent reviewers critically appraised and extracted data from eligible studies. We synthesized the findings qualitatively. We screened 8459 records and identified two RCTs (six articles, 467 participants). At 9 months, in adults with insomnia and osteoarthritis pain, cognitive behavioral therapy for pain and insomnia (CBT-PI) was effective at improving sleep (Insomnia Severity Index, ISI) when compared to education (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.25, 3.90) or CBT for pain (CBT-P) (OR 3.21, 95% CI 1.22, 8.43). CBP-P vs. education was effective at increasing sleep efficiency (wrist actigraphy) in a subgroup of participants with severe pain at baseline (mean difference 5.45, 95% CI 1.56, 9.33). At 18 months, CBT-PI, CBT-P and education had similar effectiveness on sleep and pain or health outcomes. In adults with insomnia and knee osteoarthritis, CBT-I improved some sleep outcomes including sleep efficiency (diary) at 3 months (Cohen’s d 0.39, 95% CI 0.24, 1.18), and self-reported sleep quality (ISI) at 6 months (Cohen’s d − 0.62, 95% CI -1.01, − 0.07). The intervention was no better than placebo (behavioural desensitization) for improving other sleep outcomes related to sleep onset or pain outcomes. Short-term improvement in sleep was associated with pain reduction at 6 months (WOMAC pain subscale) (sensitivity 54.8%, specificity 81.4%). Overall, in two acceptable quality RCTs of adults with OA and comorbid insomnia, CBT-PI/I may improve some sleep outcomes in the short term, but not pain outcomes in the short or long-term. Clinically significant improvements in sleep in the short term may improve longer term pain outcomes. Further high-quality research is needed to evaluate other non-pharmacological interventions for people with comorbid sleep problems and a range of MSK conditions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12998-021-00381-6.

Background The residents of Victoria (Australia’s second most populous state), were subject to a hard lockdown for several months as they experienced a second wave of COVID-19. Victorians could only leave their homes for essential activities, were required to wear facemasks, remain within 5km of their homes and were subject to a nightly curfew. Elsewhere in Australia, COVID numbers remained low with no lockdown in place. We examined the impact of the lockdown on the sexual behaviour of Victorians compared with elsewhere in Australia. Methods Our online survey was open for 2.5 weeks during the lockdown (August 13th to 31st). Participants aged 18+ were recruited via social media and asked to report on their current sexual practices. Logistic regression was used to calculate the difference in the proportion of practices between Victorians and non-Victorians. Results 976 people completed the survey: 71% identified as female, 75% were aged 18–29 years, 61% resided in Victoria. Compared with elsewhere in Australia, Victorians were less likely to report sex in the last 4 weeks (54.8% vs 68.0%, diff=-13.3%, 95%CI -19.6, -6.9). Victorians were also less likely to report casual hook-ups (10.6% vs 17.3%; diff=-6.7%, 95%CI -12.5, -0.8) and sex with a fuckbuddy (10.6% vs 16.9%; diff=-6.2%, 95%CI-12.1,-0.4). There was no difference in dating app use in the last 4 weeks between Victorians and others (27.0% vs 26.6%; diff=0.4; 95%CI -5.2,6.1), but Victorians were more likely to report using apps for virtual dates (15.7% vs 2.9%, diff=12.8%, 95%CI 6.2,19.3) and chatting (83.0% vs 72.5%; diff=10.5; 95%CI 0.0,20.9) and less likely to use them for face-to-face dates (15.1% vs 56.9%; diff=-41.8%, 95%CI -52.9,-30.7). Conclusions Hard lockdowns impact sexual behaviour and practices. However, sexual activity did not stop completely, highlighting the importance of ensuring accessibility of sexual and reproductive health services during periods of restriction.

Mechanosensitive ion channels mediate transmembrane ion currents activated by mechanical forces. A mechanosensitive ion channel called TACAN was recently reported. We began to study TACAN with the intent to understand how it senses mechanical forces and functions as an ion channel. Using cellular patch-recording methods we failed to identify mechanosensitive ion channel activity. Using membrane reconstitution methods we found that TACAN, at high protein concentrations, produces non-selective, heterogeneous conduction levels that are not mechanosensitive and are most consistent with disruptions of the lipid bilayer. We determined the structure of TACAN using single particle cryo-EM and observe that it forms a symmetrical dimeric transmembrane protein. Each protomer contains an intracellular-facing cleft with a coenzyme-A co-factor, confirmed by mass spectrometry. The TACAN protomers are related in 3-dimensional structure to a fatty acid elongase, ELOVL. Whilst its physiological function remains unclear, we anticipate that TACAN is not a mechanosensitive ion channel.

Mechanosensitive ion channels mediate transmembrane ion currents activated by mechanical forces. A mechanosensitive ion channel called TACAN was recently reported. We began to study TACAN with the intent to understand how it senses mechanical forces and functions as an ion channel. Using cellular patch-recording methods, we failed to identify mechanosensitive ion channel activity. Using membrane reconstitution methods, we found that TACAN, at high protein concentrations, produces heterogeneous conduction levels that are not mechanosensitive and are most consistent with disruptions of the lipid bilayer. We determined the structure of TACAN using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy and observed that it is a symmetrical dimeric transmembrane protein. Each protomer contains an intracellular-facing cleft with a coenzyme A cofactor, confirmed by mass spectrometry. The TACAN protomer is related in three-dimensional structure to a fatty acid elongase, ELOVL7. Whilst its physiological function remains unclear, we anticipate that TACAN is not a mechanosensitive ion channel.

Background Prevalence of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) has been associated with availability of alcohol. This paper investigates potential associations between prevalent cases of chlamydia in young people in Australia and the availability of alcohol within their local area, defined as postcode of residence. Methods Alcohol availability was determined at the postcode level using liquor licensing data, classified as total number of licences, number of 'take-away' licences and number of licenses by population. Participant data were drawn from a survey targeting Australians aged 16-29years in rural and regional Australia, capturing demographic details including postcode of residence, indicators of sexual behaviour including condom use and chlamydia test results. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to examine potential associations between first, alcohol availability and chlamydia, and second, between condom use and chlamydia. Results We found little evidence of associations between alcohol availability and chlamydia in either unadjusted or adjusted models. After adjusting for alcohol availability, we observed significant associations between inconsistent condom use and chlamydia prevalence, whether alcohol availability was measured as total number (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.20; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20, 3.70), number of take-away licenses (AOR 2.19; 95% CI1.30, 3.69) or licenses per 1000 population (AOR 2.19; 95% CI 1.30, 3.68). Conclusion Little evidence of association between alcohol availability and chlamydia at the postcode level was found. Further research is required to determine appropriate measures of 'local area' and how characteristics thereof may impact on sexual health.

It is well-known that the more educated people are, the more liberal views they tend to express. However, it is unclear whether this is due to college attendance itself or because those who go to college differ from those who do not in ways (directly or indirectly) related to their later political identification. In this paper, we therefore attempt to estimate the effect of college on political identification net of people’s tendencies to select into college using an inverse probability of treatment weighting approach. Based on data from the General Social Survey, we analyze how this effect has changed over time and whether college affects the political identification of women in the same ways as that of men. We find evidence consistent with the argument that college attendance politicizes both men and women. Moreover, we show that not only the general, but also the gender specific effects change markedly across the decades. This raises questions about the different mechanisms at play in how college mobilizes men and women politically.

Objectives Objective of this study is to develop an evidence-based guideline for the noninvasive management of soft tissue disorders of the shoulder (shoulder pain), excluding major pathology. Methods This guideline is based on high-quality evidence from seven systematic reviews. Multidisciplinary experts considered the evidence of effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness, societal and ethical values, and patient experiences when formulating recommendations. Target audience is clinicians; target population is adults with shoulder pain. Results When managing patients with shoulder pain, clinicians should (a) rule out major structural or other pathologies as the cause of shoulder pain and reassure patients about the benign and self-limited nature of most soft tissue shoulder pain; (b) develop a care plan in partnership with the patient; (c) for shoulder pain of any duration, consider low-level laser therapy; multimodal care (heat/cold, joint mobilization, and range of motion exercise); cervicothoracic spine manipulation and mobilization for shoulder pain when associated pain or restricted movement of the cervicothoracic spine; or thoracic spine manipulation; (d) for shoulder pain >3-month duration, consider stretching and/or strengthening exercises; laser acupuncture; or general physician care (information, advice, and pharmacological pain management if necessary); (e) for shoulder pain with calcific tendinitis on imaging, consider shock-wave therapy; (f) for shoulder pain of any duration, do not offer ultrasound; taping; interferential current therapy; diacutaneous fibrolysis; soft tissue massage; or cervicothoracic spine manipulation and mobilization as an adjunct to exercise (i.e., range of motion, strengthening and stretching exercise) for pain between the neck and the elbow at rest or during movement of the arm; (g) for shoulder pain >3-month duration, do not offer shock-wave therapy; and (h) should reassess the patient's status at each visit for worsening of symptoms or new physical, mental, or psychological symptoms, or satisfactory recovery. Conclusions Our evidence-based guideline provides recommendations for non-invasive management of shoulder pain. The impact of the guideline in clinical practice requires further evaluation. Significance Shoulder pain of any duration can be effectively treated with laser therapy, multimodal care (i.e., heat/cold, joint mobilization, range of motion exercise), or cervicothoracic manipulation and mobilization. Shoulder pain (>3 months) can be effectively treated with exercises, laser acupuncture, or general physician care (information, advice, and pharmacological pain management if necessary).

Background Musculoskeletal disorders are common in the active military and are associated with significant lost duty days and disability. Implementing programs of care to manage musculoskeletal disorders can be challenging in complex healthcare systems such as in the military. Understanding how programs of care for musculoskeletal disorders have been implemented in the military and how they impact outcomes may help to inform future implementation interventions in this population. Methods We conducted a scoping review using the modified Arksey and O’Malley framework to identify literature on (1) implementation interventions of musculoskeletal programs of care in the active military, (2) barriers and facilitators of implementation, and (3) implementation outcomes. We identified studies published in English by searching MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and CENTRAL (Cochrane) from inception to 1 June 2018 and hand searched reference lists of relevant studies. We included empirical studies. We synthesized study results according to three taxonomies: the Effective Practice and Organization of Care (EPOC) taxonomy to classify the implementation interventions; the capability, opportunity, motivation-behavior (COM-B) system to classify barriers and facilitators of implementation; and Proctor et al.’s taxonomy (Adm Policy Ment Health 38:65–76, 2011) to classify outcomes in implementation research. Results We identified 1785 studies and 16 were relevant. All but two of the relevant studies were conducted in the USA. Implementation interventions were primarily associated with delivery arrangements (e.g., multidisciplinary care). Most barriers or facilitators of implementation were environmental (physical or social). Service and client outcomes indicated improved efficiency of clinical care and improved function and symptomology. Studies reporting implementation outcomes indicated the programs were acceptable, appropriate, feasible, or sustainable. Conclusion Identification of evidence-based approaches for the management of musculoskeletal disorders is a priority for active-duty military. Our findings can be used by military health services to inform implementation strategies for musculoskeletal programs of care. Further research is needed to better understand (1) the components of implementation interventions, (2) how to overcome barriers to implementation, and (3) how to measure implementation outcomes to improve quality of care and recovery from musculoskeletal disorders.

Objectives: To develop an evidence-based guideline for the non-pharmacological management of persistent headaches associated with neck pain (i.e., tension-type or cervicogenic). Methods: This guideline is based on systematic reviews of high-quality studies. A multidisciplinary expert panel considered the evidence of clinical benefits, cost-effectiveness, societal and ethical values, and patient experiences when formulating recommendations. Target audience includes clinicians; target population is adults with persistent headaches associated with neck pain. Results: When managing patients with headaches associated with neck pain, clinicians should (a) rule out major structural or other pathologies, or migraine as the cause of headaches; (b) classify headaches associated with neck pain as tension-type headache or cervicogenic headache once other sources of headache pathology has been ruled out; (c) provide care in partnership with the patient and involve the patient in care planning and decision making; (d) provide care in addition to structured patient education; (e) consider low-load endurance craniocervical and cervicoscapular exercises for tension-type headaches (episodic or chronic) or cervicogenic headaches >3 months duration; (f) consider general exercise, multimodal care (spinal mobilization, craniocervical exercise and postural correction) or clinical massage for chronic tension-type headaches; (g) do not offer manipulation of the cervical spine as the sole form of treatment for episodic or chronic tension-type headaches; (h) consider manual therapy (manipulation with or without mobilization) to the cervical and thoracic spine for cervicogenic headaches >3 months duration. However, there is no added benefit in combining spinal manipulation, spinal mobilization and exercises; and (i) reassess the patient at every visit to assess outcomes and determine whether a referral is indicated. Conclusions: Our evidence-based guideline provides recommendations for the conservative management of persistent headaches associated with neck pain. The impact of the guideline in clinical practice requires validation. Significance: Neck pain and headaches are very common comorbidities in the population. Tension-type and cervicogenic headaches can be treated effectively with specific exercises. Manual therapy can be considered as an adjunct therapy to exercise to treat patients with cervicogenic headaches. The management of tension-type and cervicogenic headaches should be patient-centred.

Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety represent a growing health concern among post-secondary students. Mental health and sleep problems tend to co-occur and circadian preference may have implications for mental health outcomes. We conducted a systematic review of the literature to synthesize the existing evidence on the association between circadian typology and mental health symptomatology in students pursuing higher education. We systematically searched three databases from inception to November 2017 to identify potentially relevant articles. A total of 3097 articles were screened, 75 were critically appraised, and 3 had low or moderate risk of bias. Preliminary evidence suggests that sleep preference is associated with depressive and/or anxiety symptomatology in undergraduate university students. The role of sleep preference as a risk factor for depressive and/or anxiety symptomatology needs to be evaluated in cohort studies.

BACKGROUND: Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed bacterial sexually transmissible infection (STI) in Australia, with most infections diagnosed and managed in general practice. Often asymptomatic, left untreated it can cause serious reproductive complications in women. There is now global recognition of the importance of enhanced chlamydia case management to reduce the risk of repeat infection and minimise harms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to provide evidence-based information and resources to help general practitioners engage in partner management and retesting as part of routine STI care, in accordance with Australia's Fourth National Sexually Transmissible Infections Strategy: 2018-2022, and to provide up-to-date evidence about anorectal chlamydia and other emerging concerns in women. DISCUSSION: Evidence-based information and strategies for partner management and retesting the index case are provided in this article, in addition to information regarding the detection of PID, screening and treatment of anorectal chlamydia, antimicrobial resistance, and testing and treatment in pregnancy.

Correspondence from Yu et al. identify methodological issues with the systematic review of manual therapy for pediatric manuscript. Like any research study, limitations are important for readers to keep in consideration when reviewing study findings. The primary authors maintain full confidence in the use of the review to provide practicing clinicians with a comprehensive overview of the limited and low-quality available evidence regarding manual therapies for the pediatric patient.

Additional file 1: Appendix S1. List of recommendations by domain and sub-domain; Description of data: Appendix S1 provides a complete list of all 374 recommendations categorised by domain and sub-domain.