The intricate nature of human hand movements presents a significant challenge in the development of intuitive and dexterous prosthetic limbs. This article explores the critical role of signal analysis, particularly focusing on electromyography (EMG), in deciphering the complex patterns associated with various hand activities. By examining recent advancements in signal acquisition, feature extraction, and machine learning algorithms, we highlight the implications of these techniques for enhancing the control and functionality of prosthetic hands. This review synthesizes current research, identifies key trends, and discusses future directions aimed at creating more seamless and naturalistic prosthetic control systems.

Background:

Ethnic minority populations in the United Kingdom have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Addressing disparities in vaccine uptake is essential to ensuring the success of national immunisation efforts. Understanding the factors contributing to lower COVID-19 booster vaccination rates among these groups is critical to meeting both national and global public health objectives.

Objectives:

This systematic review aimed to identify the key factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine booster uptake among ethnic minority populations in the UK.

Methods:

Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and CINAHL for epidemiological studies published up to December 2023. Studies were included if they reported on vaccine uptake or explored factors influencing COVID-19 vaccination among ethnic minority groups in the UK. Of 4,382 records screened, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis.

Results:

All seventeen included studies were assessed as being of acceptable quality. Ethnic minority status was associated with greater vaccine hesitancy and lower uptake compared to White British groups. Key barriers included limited knowledge about vaccine safety, misinformation, inaccessible communication strategies, and logistical challenges. Facilitators included targeted media outreach and culturally sensitive communication delivered by trusted sources within communities.

Conclusion:

Community engagement, supported by trusted healthcare and social networks, is essential to addressing the concerns and information needs of ethnic minority populations. Such approaches can help reduce disparities and improve uptake of COVID-19 booster vaccines.

Background: - Stroke remains a leading global public health concern, affecting both developed and developing nations. Approximately 15 million individuals experience a stroke annually, with 6 million resulting in death and 5 million leading to long-term disability. Preventive strategies encompass both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, among which aspirin has been widely studied. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effectiveness of aspirin in preventing stroke among patients at high risk of vascular disease.

Methods: - A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Cochrane Library, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of aspirin for stroke prevention in high-risk vascular patients. Multiple reviewers independently conducted data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality appraisal, guided by the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD) and the Cochrane Collaboration standards.

Results: - Seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 42,918 participants. Although methodological and outcome measurement variations were noted across studies, fixed-effects meta-analysis with a 95% confidence interval revealed a statistically significant benefit of aspirin in stroke prevention. The findings consistently favoured aspirin over other or no interventions.

Discussion: - While the results support the effectiveness of aspirin in reducing stroke incidence in high-risk vascular patients, variations in study design and outcomes highlight the need for caution in interpretation. This review did not address the safety profile or cost-effectiveness of aspirin, which are critical components of clinical decision-making.

Conclusion: - Aspirin appears to be an effective intervention for stroke prevention in individuals at high risk of vascular disease. Future research should explore its safety, long-term outcomes, and economic implications to guide more comprehensive clinical guidelines.