bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of an Internet-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Promoting Mental Health Among Migrant Live-in Caregivers in Canada: Protocol
Authors: Fung Kenneth Po-Lun , Vahabi Mandana , Moosapoor Masoomeh , Akbarian Abdolreza , Jing-Wen Liu Jenny , Wong Josephine Pui-Hing
Published: June 2021

Background

Psychological distress, isolation, feelings of powerlessness, and limited social support are realities faced by temporary migrant live-in caregivers in Canada. Furthermore, they experience multiple barriers in accessing mental health services due to their long work hours, limited knowledge of health resources, precarious employment, and immigration status.

Objective

The Women Empowerment - Caregiver Acceptance & Resilience E-Learning (WE2CARE) project is a pilot intervention research project that aims to promote the mental well-being and resiliency of migrant live-in caregivers. The objectives include exploring the effectiveness of this program in achieving the following: (1) reducing psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and stress); (2) promoting committed actions of self-care; and (3) building mutual support social networks. Further, participants’ satisfaction with the intervention and their perceived barriers to and facilitators of practicing the self-care strategies embedded in WE2CARE will be examined.

Methods

A total of 36 live-in caregivers residing in the Greater Toronto Area will be recruited and randomly assigned to either the intervention or waitlist control group. The intervention group will receive a 6-week web-based psychosocial intervention that will be based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Standardized self-reported surveys will be administered online preintervention, postintervention, and at 6 weeks postintervention to assess mental distress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale), psychological flexibility (Acceptance and Action Questionnaire), mindfulness (Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale – Revised), and resilience (Multi-System Model of Resilience Inventory). In addition, two focus groups will be held with a subset of participants to explore their feedback on the utility of the WE2CARE program.

Results

WE2CARE was funded in January 2019 for a year. The protocol was approved by the research ethics boards of Ryerson University (REB 2019-036) and the University of Toronto (RIS37623) in February and May 2019, respectively. Data collection started upon ethics approval and was completed by May 2020. A total of 29 caregivers completed the study and 20 participated in the focus groups. Data analyses are in progress and results will be published in 2021.

Conclusions

WE2CARE could be a promising approach to reducing stress, promoting resilience, and providing a virtual space for peer emotional support and collaborative learning among socially isolated and marginalized women. The results of this pilot study will inform the adaptation of an ACT-based psychological intervention for online delivery and determine its utility in promoting mental health among disadvantaged and vulnerable populations.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/31211
Assessing Quality Factors and User Preference of Drug Reference Apps in Taiwan: Systematic Search and Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Yu-Chun , Liao Wei-Wei , Su Mei-Chin , Lin Yen-Hsi
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND

Drug reference apps play various distinct and vital roles through the medication use process. A drug reference app that carried out comprehensive localized drug information would greatly improve the efficiency and quality of work for physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and patients.

OBJECTIVE

This current study aimed to describe a systematic and stepwise process to identify drug reference apps with localized drug information in Taiwan. Moreover, we assessed the quality of these apps by using a reliable quality assessment tool and further analyzing the influential factors for user ratings.

METHODS

A two-step algorithm (KESS) consisting of keyword growing and systematic search was proposed. Apps were divided into two groups: higher user ratings and lower user ratings. Seven independent reviewers were trained to evaluate these apps using Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). A logistic regression model was fitted, and average marginal effects (AME) were calculated to identify the effects of factors for higher user ratings. A p-value< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 23 drug reference apps in Taiwan had been identified and analyzed.
Ten apps had higher user star ratings (>=4 stars), and 13 apps had lower user star ratings ( < 4 stars). These drug reference apps had acceptable quality with an average MARS score of 3.23. Apps with higher user star ratings had higher MARS scores than the lowers (engagement (2.70 v.s. 2.50, P= .005), functionality (3.85 v.s. 3.49, P= .003), aesthetics (3.39 v.s. 2.98, P < .001), and information (3.55 v.s. 3.25, P= .005)). The regression model showed five influential factors for higher user ratings (navigation, AME, 13.15%; performance, AME, 11.03%; visual appeal, AME, 10.87%; credibility, AME, 10.67%; quantity of information, AME, 10.42%).

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed KESS algorithm could be a valuable and unbiased framework for systematic search for app. While the higher engagement, more functionality, better aesthetics, and more information associated with higher user ratings, there are five most influential factors, navigation, performance, visual appeal, credibility, and quantity of information among the four elements.
Kidney Disease among People Who Are Incarcerated
Authors: Murphy Matthew , Ding Ann , Berk Justin , Rich Josiah , Bayliss George
Published: June 2021

CKD affects 15% of US adults and is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. CKD disproportionately affects certain populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. These groups are also disproportionately affected by incarceration and barriers to accessing health services. Incarceration represents an opportunity to link marginalized individuals to CKD care. Despite a legal obligation to provide a community standard of care including the screening and treatment of individuals with CKD, there is little evidence to suggest systematic efforts are in place to address this prevalent, costly, and ultimately fatal condition. This review highlights unrealized opportunities to connect individuals with CKD to care within the criminal justice system and as they transition to the community, and it underscores the need for more evidence-based strategies to address the health effect of CKD on over-represented communities in the criminal justice system.
Acute Kidney Injury in the Modern Era of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Abramson Matthew H. , Gutgarts Victoria , Zheng Junting , Maloy Molly A. , Ruiz Josel D. , Scordo Michael , Jaimes Edgar A. , Sathick Insara Jaffer
Published: June 2021

Background and objectives

AKI is a major complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, increasing risk of nonrelapse mortality. AKI etiology is often ambiguous due to heterogeneity of conditioning/graft versus host disease regimens. To date, graft versus host disease and calcineurin inhibitor effects on AKI are not well defined. We aimed to describe AKI and assess pre–/post–hematopoietic transplant risk factors in a large recent cohort.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We performed a single-center, retrospective study of 616 allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant recipients from 2014 to 2017. We defined AKI and CKD based on Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria and estimated GFR using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation. We assessed AKI pre–/post–hematopoietic transplant risk factors using cause-specific Cox regression and association of AKI with CKD outcomes using chi-squared test. AKI was treated as a time-dependent variable in relation to nonrelapse mortality.

Results

Incidence of AKI by day 100 was 64%. Exposure to tacrolimus and other nephrotoxins conferred a higher risk of AKI, but tacrolimus levels were not associated with severity. Reduced-intensity conditioning carried higher AKI risk compared with myeloablative conditioning. Most stage 3 AKIs were due to ischemic acute tubular necrosis and calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity. KRT was initiated in 21 out of 616 patients (3%); of these 21 patients, nine (43%) recovered and five (24%) survived to hospital discharge. T cell–depleted transplants, higher baseline serum albumin, and non-Hispanic ethnicity were associated with lower risk of AKI. CKD developed in 21% (73 of 345) of patients after 12 months. Nonrelapse mortality was higher in those with AKI (hazard ratio, 2.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.8 to 4.27).

Conclusions

AKI post–hematopoietic cell transplant remains a major concern. Risk of AKI was higher with exposure to calcineurin inhibitors. T cell–depleted hematopoietic cell transplants and higher serum albumin had lower risk of AKI. Of the patients requiring KRT, 43% recovered kidney function.

Podcast

This article contains a podcast at https://www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2021_09_07_CJN19801220.mp3
“I didn’t fink dat was funny”
Authors: Brigg Jamie
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the effect of middle and older age on Michael Caine’s realisation of the English dental fricatives. The results show convergence to prestige forms during middle age. Caine only exhibits TH- fronting during his older years within a familiar social setting (audience and speech styles), while TH- stopping is present in both age groups with a significant increase in his older years. It is proposed that the discrepancy between stopping and fronting exists because the two variants carry different levels of stigma in Caine’s linguistic community.
Solution of linear and non-linear partial differential equation of fractional order
Authors: Muneshwar Raju , Bondar K. L. , Shirole Y. H.
Published: June 2021

We know that the solution of partial differential equations by analytical method is better than the solution by approximate or series solution method. In this paper, we discuss the solution of linear and non-linear fractional partial differential equations involving derivatives with respect to time or space variables by converting them into the partial differential equations of integer order. Also we develop an analytical formulation to solve such fractional partial differential equations. Moreover, we discuss the method to solve the fractional partial differential equations in space as well as time variables simultaneously with the help of some examples.
Graphs of edge-to-vertex detour number 2
Authors: Santhakumaran A. P.
Published: June 2021

For two vertices u and v in a graph G = (V,E), the detour distance D(u, v) is the length of a longest u − v path in G. A u − v path of length D(u, v) is called a u − v detour. For subsets A and B of V , the detour distance D(A,B) is defined as D(A,B) = min{D(x, y) : x ∈ A, y ∈ B}. A u − v path of length D(A,B) is called an A-B detour joining the sets A,B ⊆ V where u ∈ A and v ∈ B. A vertex x is said to lie on an A − B detour if x is a vertex of some A−B detour. A set S ⊆ E is called an edge-to-vertex detour set if every vertex of G is incident with an edge of S or lies on a detour joining a pair of edges of S. The edge-to-vertex detour number dn2(G) of G is the minimum order of its edge-to-vertex detour sets and any edge-to-vertex detour set of order dn2(G) is an edge-to-vertex detour basis of G. Graphs G of size q for which dn2(G) = 2 are characterized.
The impact of time delay in the transmission of Japanese encephalitis without vaccination
Authors: Baniya Vinod , Keval Ram
Published: June 2021

In this manuscript, the influence of time delay in the transmission of Japanese encephalitis without vaccination model has been studied. The time delay is because of the existence of an incubation period during which the Japanese encephalitis virus reproduces enough in the mosquitoes with the goal that it tends to be transmitted by the mosquitoes to people. The motivation behind this manuscript is to assess the influence of the time delay it takes to infect susceptible human populations after interacting with infected mosquitoes. The steadystate and the threshold value R0 of the delay model were resolved. This value assists with setting up the circumstance that ensures the asymptotic stability of relating equilibrium points. Utilizing the delay as a bifurcation parameter, we built up the circumstance for the presence of a Hopf bifurcation. Moreover, we infer an express equation to decide the stability and direction of Hopf bifurcation at endemic equilibrium by using center manifold theory and normal structure strategy. It has been seen that delay plays a vital role in stability exchanging. Furthermore, the presence of Hopf bifurcation is affected by larger values of virus transmission rate from an infected mosquito to susceptible individuals and the natural mortality of humans in a model. Finally, to understand some analytical outcomes, the delay framework is simulated numerically.
Application of Machine Learning in Routing and Wavelength Assignment: Literature Survey
Authors: S Likhitha
Published: June 2021

This paper presents the survey of the prominent issue in optical networks is Routing and Wavelength Assignment (RWA), due to the heavy traffic in network, there will be a need for wavelength assignment to the track in that network. The RWA problem is resolved using the approach of Genetic Algorithm and Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm, wherein up until now is noticed to be better than other optimization algorithms. By using Deep Q-Networks, a type of reinforcement learning, in optimizing the problem in selection of the routing path and wavelength assignment in an optical mesh network.
Teachers’ Perceptions towards Slow Learners Academic Achievement and Role of Guidance Services at Secondary School Levels in District Peshawar
Authors: Khalil Muhammad Shafiq
Published: June 2021

The main purpose of the study is to evaluate the teacher’s perception towards slow learners academic achievement and role of guidance services at secondary school levels in district Peshawar. This was a Mixed Method research. Data was collected through administering especially designed questionnaire and used conveniently sample designed for selection of 200 Public and Private secondary schools Teachers/Head Masters, both male and female. Teachers/Head Masters were also asked to write suggestions for the improvement. It is found that positive teacher-student relation is necessary for the academic achievement of the students, especially the slow learners. Most of the teachers agreed that they take interest in the academics of their students and that they know how to teach their subject in a better way. Majority of the teachers responded positively that they can motivate the students for learning and that students feel comfortable in their class and they take feedback during the lesson. Student’s opinion is also taken and it is found that most of the students are satisfied with teaching method of the teachers. Teachers suggested that the strength of the class should be less, so that they could give full attention to each and every student. Majority of the teachers/head masters of secondary schools in district Peshawar reported ease of use of guidance and counseling services in their schools. It is also observed that the students have a complex of problems, domestic, personal, psychological, schools related and home centered etc. However, guidance and counseling need in a school required further investigation. The focal strength of character of the study was also exploring guidance services in the secondary schools. The applied significance of this study is to help policy maker in education institution to take care of the suggestion and perception of the teachers regarding slow learners academic achievement. This study will help in making strategies for quality education at secondary levels schools in Pakistan and provide suggestions to overcome the environmental issues and make improvement
Characterization and Treatment of Textile Industry Effluent by Phytoremediation Technique
Authors: Deshmukh Prof. Manish Sudhakarrao
Published: June 2021

The present work is designed to analyse the physico chemical properties of textile effluents and to evolve the effective and economically low-cost method for textile waste. Here the suitability of plants to remove containments are compared by two types of flow in which waste water is passed through the root zone by horizontal and vertical flow and suitability of plants to remove contaminant depends upon retention time or velocity of effluent which passes from one end to another end of the container. In India now a day, several efforts have been driven to control the pollution to enjoy the citizen, the disease-free environment. Mainly in this paper, we discuss about the pollution created by the Textile industry Effluent generated by this industry is one of the sources of pollution which contained air, soil and water. The main Contamination of soil and water bodies by the discharge of this industry are due to the Heavy metals & colour (dyes). This discharge if allowed on ground or water bodies, it percolates through the soil and pollute the fertile soil which effects the Agriculture and further this contaminates the ground water table and an aquatic life by toxication of water and this effects the human health and vegetation. The industry related with this study is of raw cotton based here cotton used is from ginning and pressing operation.
Design and Fabrication of Thermosyphon Water Purification System
Authors: Patil Kartik Balkrishna
Published: June 2021

Lack of clean drinking water in rural areas is a huge problem during the occurrences of floods and other environmental disasters. Often, it takes a long time to transport potable water to these areas resulting in health issues for the residents. In this research, a solar power-based water purification system using PCM to produce clean drinking water in flood-affected areas or remote areas where potable water is difficult to obtain is proposed. Purification reduces the concentration of particulate matter including suspended particles, parasites, bacteria, algae, viruses, and fungi as well as reduces the concentration of a range of dissolved and particulate matter. The purification system available is not easy to get for poor people. So we are using a different technique for water purification system is solar distillation technique, which is very cheap and convenient. These Thermosyphon purification system is a modification of conventional solar still but the efficiency achieved is much higher then the conventional solar still. There are 5 major components in our design consists of Upper basin, Lower basin, Thermosyphon system, Diffusion still, and PCM chamber. The dirty water inlet is taken into Lower basin, upper basin, and diffusion still. Initially the temperature of water in the lower basin is low, so to increase the temperature of the water, thermosyphon loop system is connected with the lower basin. The energy from the lower basin is transferred to the condensing cover and the side walls of the tank which is been wasted to surroundings will be captured by upper basin and diffusion still. In diffusion still, there will be a successive plate, so energy from sidewalls will be evaporated and will be diffuse in a thin gap and it will get condense of the facing surface and that water will be collected in the outlet. We will be adding phase-changing material, which helps the purification to work on in absence of sunlight. So our basic design of the project is to increase the rate of evaporation and condensation process.
An IoT based Weather Monitor System for Drying Clothes
Authors: K S Saranya
Published: June 2021

A growing demand for integrated smarter and faster techniques to make work easier and productive leads to the advancement of technologies. This paper entitled “AN IOT BASED WEATHER MONITOR SYSTEM FOR DRYING CLOTHES” proposes a smart way of monitoring the area where we dry out our clothes and upload the data over IoT. This proposed module consists of an IoT based framework that effectively observes the change in weather using sensors, Application that displays weather parameters such as temperature, humidity and clothes moisture obtained from the sensors to cloud by implementing message queuing telemetry transport protocol. The proposed system is portable, affordable and the data can be accessed at any instant. The Internet of Things is implemented to make informed decisions and to optimize the experience of the residents by providing them with real time data and sending customized alert notifications via software application to the right person. The clients can subscribe to the application and get the updates from the implemented system in their smartphone.
Research on Fire Resistance Potency of Ferro-Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Senthamilalagan N.
Published: June 2021

Fire is also one of the most significant possible threats to most buildings and structures. As structural materials deteriorate due to exposure to high temperatures, the building can collapse. As a result, the use of fire safety materials to mitigate thermal damage to structural members is important. Ferrocement is a cementitious composite substance made of hydraulic cement mortar and tightly spaced layers of continuous and relatively small sized wire mesh. Mortar is an excellent insulator, and reinforcing wire mesh can minimise surface spalling more effectively than plain concrete. Similarly, geopolymer mortar has good fire resistance due to its ceramic-like properties. The performance of ferrocement factor in this study is made of geopolymer and its fire resistance is investigated.
Solar Powered Infant Incubator for Assessment in Healthcare System
Authors: Rambalaji S.
Published: June 2021

Monitoring baby health status in incubator is a necessary task and need more attention. Huge number of issues was happened previously like improper oxygen supply, theft of child and mishandling in continuous monitoring. Hence a proper automatic system should be needed for monitoring a baby in incubator with reduced human interaction. This can be achieved through sensors and projected as proposed system. Here temperature, humidity, heartbeat, pressure and accelerometer sensor are used to check baby body condition and if any drastic change is identified in it will be automatically intimated through buzzer. If any unauthorized person is picking up the child it will be detected by IR sensor and automatically door will be closed. Another major issue is the current status of a child is not transparent to respective parent here all the details gathered from the sensors will be automatically loaded in cloud through IoT which can viewed by their parent as well as doctor to analyze current status of the baby. The whole process is controlled by Raspberry PI and for continuous monitoring solar panel is added that provide power supply for our system sequentially without any interrupt. Hence it clearly shows that our proposed system achieves the objective of our work and protects baby both in physical and health based parameters.
Performance and Emissions Analysis of 4-Stroke Biodiesel Engine at Different Injection Pressure
Authors: H. Pal Vishal
Published: June 2021

Alternative fuels for diesel engines have become increasingly important due to several socioeconomic aspects, imminent depletion of fossil fuel and growing environmental concerns. Global warming concerns due to the production of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO2) as results from internal combustion engine have seen as one of major factor the promotion of the use of biofuels. Therefore, the use of biodiesel fuel (BDF) as an alternative for fossil diesel (DSL) is among the effective way to reduce the CO2 emission. In this experimental study, the eﬀects on engine performance and fuel-induced emission characteristics were studied using fuel blends and under different fuel injection pressure. Even though the brake thermal efficiency was obtained maximum for the conventional diesel at standard operating condition, the same can also be achieved with biodiesel blends by increasing the injection pressure higher than that of the level used for conventional diesel. This experimental test was done using a small 4-stroke single cylinder diesel engine with electric dynamometer loads integrated with emission gas analyser that attached to the exhaust pipeline. As results of experimental investigations, decreasing in NOX Emission, SOX Emission, CO Emission and also brake specific fuel consumption compare to pure diesel.
Monitoring of PV Panels and Measurement System for Solar
Authors: Mishra Sanat Kumar
Published: June 2021

Solar energy is free to utilize because it is a characteristic perpetual source, which is accessible in a wide assortment of areas on the Earth. In this project, the Photovoltaic (PV) checking and estimation Structure, this is created to know the simple combination of programming and equipment. Since the ease microcontroller utilized in this venture it is exceptionally easy to use. The information of testing Structure the Photovoltaic (PV) is planned by utilizing the light sensor, temperature sensor, voltage sensor, current sensor, Arduino Uno, and Node MCU. The light force is evaluated by utilizing an LDR sensor, voltage is observed by utilizing module by voltage Sensor, the current is observed by utilizing ACS712 current sensor, and temperature is evaluated by utilizing temperature sensor (LM35). To do the measurement in the microcontroller we have taken the values from photovoltaic cell(through the sensors) and all this information are shown on a 20x4 LCD and showed to your cell phone and PC through Node MCU (server blynk).
Social value orientation and conspicuous conservation: A moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Cho Yoon Y.
Published: June 2021

Conspicuous conservation is hard to explain using conventional altruistic theories. In this study I explored whether the relationship between environmental behaviors and proself value was mediated by public self-awareness. Further, I examined the moderating effect of social visibility
in the direct and indirect relationship between a proself social value orientation and environmentally beneficial purchasing behavior. Participants in the study were two groups who were presented with two products that had different levels of social visibility. The results demonstrate that
proself value was positively related to environmentally beneficial purchasing behavior both directly and also indirectly through public self-awareness. In addition, when consumption of the product was socially visible, the relationship between proself value and environmentally beneficial purchase
was strengthened. These findings imply that when product consumption has a high level of social visibility, emphasizing the psychological benefits for the consumer could be an effective persuasive technique in promoting green consumerism.
Interpersonal complementarity and gender: Contextual influences on perception of personality
Authors: Vishwanatha Kalyani , Hakelind Camilla , Steinvall Anders , Svensson Johan , Deutschmann Mats
Published: June 2021

Contextual influences have long been recognized as an important factor explaining individual differences in perception of personality traits. In this study we investigated whether interpersonal complementarity creates a context for the perception of personality traits, and whether gender
stereotypes play a role in the process. Participants were 205 students taking a personality psychology course. They evaluated personality traits in the context of observing an interpersonal exchange that reflected complementarity. Among the respondents, 103 made the evaluation based on a gender
stereotypical exchange (dominant male–submissive female) and 102 based their evaluation on a gender counterstereotypical exchange (dominant female–submissive male). Results reveal that interpersonal context had a stronger influence on ratings of conscientiousness, openness, and
emotional stability traits than it did on extraversion and agreeableness trait ratings. Furthermore, openness and conscientiousness were particularly susceptible to gender-based stereotypes in the context of interpersonal complementarity. These results suggest that both interpersonal complementarity
and gender stereotypes influence the perception of personality traits, but that they do so in a way that is unique to each trait.
Residents' satisfaction with cultural services provided by property managers in Chinese housing communities
Authors: Zhang Yang , Sun Jie , Hu Zhihong , Wang Wei , Wu Chengliang
Published: June 2021

In this article we discussed the influence path of culture-building services provided by property management companies in China's residential communities, and their relationship with residents' evaluations of the companies' services. Using data from a survey of 501 residents of typical
commercial housing communities, we constructed a structural equation model based on the stimulus–organism–response framework. Community cultural services were used as the stimulus variable; pleasure, arousal, and perceived value were the organism variables; and customer satisfaction
was the response variable. Our results show that the impact of cultural services on residents' evaluations could be explained by the stimulus–organism–response model, such that a strong community culture had a positive impact on residents' emotions and perceived value, and on customer
satisfaction. The findings of this study enrich understanding of how property services managers can construct a community culture system to satisfy owners.
Evaluating the accuracy of determining the points’ position by free stationing method
Authors: Bryn M.J. , Lobanova Yu.V. , Afonin D.A. , Shevshenko G.G.
Published: June 2021

The accuracy of determining the points’ position through the free stationing method is estimated. At performing alignment work, surveying facades, executive surveys, and geodetic monitoring of buildings and structures, the method of free stationing with an electronic total station installed in any suitable place and determining its position by serif, and then using the polar method, defi ning the coordinates of the determined point is considered. The accuracy assessment is identifi ed using the formulas of calculating the mean square error for the direct and reverse angular serifs, as well as for linear ones. The authors propose algorithms of accuracy evaluation for the located point positions with non-fi xed stationing method based on the parametric adjustment, and searching ones, at the same time the algorithms shall provide adjustment by considering or ignoring the errors in the input data. To determine the mean square error of the standing point’s position and the determined points according to the results of adjustment by the free stationing method, fi eld experimental studies were carried out. Numerical examples of accuracy evaluation are provided. The compliance of the adjustment results and root-mean-square errors will mean the validity of the proposed algorithms and accuracy of the performed survey.
Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the bone mimicking osteomyelitis
Authors: mofidi abbas , Esfandbod Mohsen , Pendar Ehsan , Mortezazadeh Masoud , hadizadeh Alireza
Published: June 2021

In this article, we report a 34-year-old man who presented with
progressive hip pain and osteolytic bone lesions . Primary workup
included Core needle biopsies manifested as osteomyelitis; however as no
sign of remission was observed, an open biopsy considered which revealed
primary bone lymphoma.
Disturbance alters relationships between soil carbon pools and aboveground vegetation attributes in an anthropogenic peatland in Patagonia
Authors: Lopatin Javier , Araya-Lopéz Rocío , Galleguillos Mauricio , Perez Jorge
Published: June 2021

1 Vegetation attributes derived from species and plant functional types
(PFTs) directly or indirectly drive the carbon (C) cycle in peatlands.
However, anthropogenic-based disturbances may alter petland soil-plant
interactions and their ability to sequester carbon. Likewise, it is
unclear how the soil-plant linkages among different soil C
decomposition-based pools and plant attributes vary under disturbance
conditions. 2 We aimed to assess how anthropogenic disturbances affect
the relationships between aboveground vegetation attributes and
belowground C pools in a peatland located in Northern Patagonia, Chile.
We further evaluated if attributes derived from PFTs are better suited
to predict soil C pools than attributes derived from species. We used
structural equation modeling and regression analyses to explore these
differences. 3 We found that undisturbed peatland has more soil-plant
significant relationships between soil C pools and vegetation
attributes, yielding higher predictive accuracies than disturbed areas.
The species-based attributes yielded consistently better results
predicting soil C pools than PFT-based attributes. However, PFT-based
information showed significant interactions with the highly-decomposed C
pools in the undisturbed peatland. Likewise, plant height and diversity
were only significant with C pools in the undisturbed peatland. 4 We
observed that water-logged plant communities have different soil-plant
interactions than dryer communities. These differences were observed in
both areas but were higher in the disturbed peatland, making it
impossible to find meaningful soil-plant relationships across vegetation
types and taxa. 5 Our results highlight the importance of accounting for
disturbance or management when linking vegetation attributes to soil C
pools in peatlands. This implies that up-to-date extensive monitoring of
peatland disturbances is needed to accurately monitor soil C attributes
at the regional level using vegetation as proxies. We also need to
aggregate species into specific plant functional types that hold these
soil-plant interactions across landscapes, regions, and disturbances to
generalize the soil-plant relationships accurately.
The clinial utility of serum leukocyte counts for initial antibiotic use in acute mastitis: the experience from China
Authors: Jiang Li , Fang Jianjiang , ding jinhua
Published: June 2021

Abstract Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility
of serum leukocyte counts (SLCs) for initial antibiotic use in Chinese
women with mastitis who presented to the emergency department. Materials
and Methods: Electronic medical records of breastfeeding women with
mastitis were reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups according
to the level of SLCs: slight elevated leukocyte counts (SELC,
1.0-1.5*10^9 cells/L); marked elevated leukocyte counts (MELC,
>1.5*10^9 cells/L ). Treatment outcomes including rates
of treatment failure and breast abscess formation were compared.
Results: The rates of treatment failure and breast abscess were 12.7%
and 7.1% in overall population and 7.7% and 6.4% in MELC group,
respectively. In SELC group, treatment failures were observed in 29.7%
and 6.4% patients without or with antibiotics, and the difference was
significant (OR=4.207, 95% CI 1.318- 13.424); breast abscess was
observed in 12.5% and 2.1% patients, and the difference was not
significant (OR=6.571, 95% CI 0.793-54.481). Mean time to normal
appearance of the breast or normal temperature was shorter in patients
with antibiotics (3.8 ± 1.7 and 4.3 ± 2.1 days) than in patients without
antibiotic use (2.5 ± 1.1 and 3.0 ± 1.3 days), p<0.001.
Conclusion: Our study found that there were better clinical outcomes in
patients with SELC or MELC when antibiotic was initially administrated
compared to those without antibiotics, whicha indicates that SLC is an
easy and practical reference index for gudiing antibiotic use, and
patients who have an elevated SLC should be treated with antibiotic. Key
Words: mastitis, antibiotic, serum leukocyte count
Cloud Computing as a Key Enabler for Digital Government across Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Abell Thomas , Arndt Husar , Lim May-Ann
Published: June 2021

Governments are responding to rapid change and growing demands by citizens and businesses by accelerating the digitalization of public services. They are updating their e-government capabilities, adding new digital tools and services, augmenting their data analytics capabilities, and putting in place digital economy development plans. Many of these changes are enabled by cloud computing technologies that have become commonplace in the digitally connected world. The rapidly scalable computing resources that cloud computing delivers via the internet bring cost benefits, improve agility, ensure resilience, and provide access to the latest solutions that digital technology can offer.
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head following an occult femoral neck stress fracture
Authors: Cheng Feng , He Bang
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Osteonecrosis (ON) of the femoral head (FH) ? (ONFH) is an intractable disease that causes progressive femoral head collapse, severe pain, and gait disturbance. We report a case of avascular necrosis of the femoral head following an occult femoral neck (FN) stress fracture. Case report. A 55-year-old woman presented to our department with a chief complaint of low back pain that radiated into the left anterolateral thigh over the period of two months. Her left anterolateral thigh became progressively more painful over the past two weeks. No abnormal findings indicative of ONFH or an occult fracture of the FN were detected by X-ray or computed tomography, but an occult insufficiency fracture of the left FN was identified on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The diagnosis of FN stress fracture was delayed, resulting in femoral head necrosis. The fracture was treated with total hip arthroplasty, and the resected FH was subjected to histopathology (HP). Based on the HP findings, the final diagnosis of this case was ONFH with an occult fracture of the left FN. Clinical symptoms were relieved postoperatively. Conclusion. An early MRI examination is recommended in patients presenting with a suspected stress fracture of the FN to avoid FH necrosis due to a delayed diagnosis.
Knowledge and awareness of nursing students regarding human papillomaviruses infection and vaccination
Authors: Mlinar Suzana
Published: June 2021

Background/Aim. Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are the most common cause of sexually transmitted infections. Most HPV infections are transient and asymptomatic. Routine vaccination against HPV is the best prophylaxis against HPV infection. The aim of the study was to determine knowledge and risk factors about HPV infection and the attitudes towards vaccination against HPV among nursing students. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted on a random sample of 175 nursing students. The students were divided into categories according to their year of studying. Statistical data analysis was done using the t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results. Most (93.1%) respondents knew that HPV infection might cause cervical cancer and that it was a sexually transmitted infection (80.0%). Only 31.4% were aware that HPV might cause head and neck cancer, and 22.9% were aware that smoking was a risk factor for HPV infection. Male respondents (p < 0.05) and third-year respondents (p < 0.05) were significantly aware that men could also be infected with HPV. Third-year respondents were significantly aware that early sexual intercourse increased the risk of HPV infection (p < 0.05) and that HPV infection could be asymptomatic (p < 0.05). Respondents under 26 years of age (p < 0.05) and first-year respondents (p < 0.05) were significantly aware that men could as well be vaccinated against HPV. Conclusion. The present study found that the respondents emphasized the importance of health education by nurses and vaccination against HPV. Due to the low vaccination rate of the population, preventive measures are needed to increase public awareness about vaccination against HPV, for which nurses are also responsible.
Leukemic infiltration of the ovary as an initial presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase
Authors: Sekulic Borivoj , Percic Ivanka , Dragicevic-Jojkic Marina , Dokic Marina , Panjkovic Milana
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Extramedullary sites of leukemic proliferation, harboring an adverse outcome, are rare and usually found in the blastic phase of chronic myeloid leukemia. We report a case of a newly diagnosed patient with chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase, with leukemic infiltration of the right ovary on disease presentation. Case report. The patient presented with abdominal pain, leukocytosis, and anemia. A peripheral blood smear indicated chronic myeloid leukemia, and cytoreductive treatment was started. Due to the worsening of the abdominal pain, computed tomography was done. It revealed a cystic tumor of the right ovary. The tumor was surgically removed. Bone marrow examination confirmed the diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia in the chronic phase. Immunohistochemical analysis of the ovarian tumor showed leukemic infiltration with 5% of blasts. The patient was treated with imatinib for one year. Due to treatment failure, imatinib was switched to nilotinib. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation was considered. Conclusion. This case highlights the critical role of the multidisciplinary team approach and close treatment monitoring to achieve the best possible outcome in these patients.
Effect of Medical and Surgical Interventions on α-Cell Function in Dysglycemic Youth and Adults in the RISE Study
Authors: Kahn Steven E. , Edelstein Sharon L. , Arslanian Silva A. , Barengolts Elena , Caprio Sonia , Ehrmann David A. , Hannon Tamara S. , Marcovina Santica , Mather Kieren J. , Nadeau Kristen J. , Utzschneider Kristina M. , Xiang Anny H. , Buchanan Thomas A. ,   RISE Consortium, Ehrmann David A. , Temple Karla A. , Rue Abby , Barengolts Elena , Mokhlesi Babak , Van Cauter Eve , Sam Susan , Miller M. Annette , Kahn Steven E. , Atkinson Karen M. , Palmer Jerry P. , Utzschneider Kristina M. , Gebremedhin Tsige , Kernan-Schloss Abigail , Kozedub Alexandra , Montgomery Brenda K. , Morse Emily J. , Mather Kieren J. , Garrett Tammy , Hannon Tamara S. , Lteif Amale , Patel Aniket , Chisholm Robin , Moore Karen , Pirics Vivian , Pratt Linda , Nadeau Kristen J. , Gross Susan , Zeitler Philip S. , Williams Jayne , Green Melanie Cree , Garcia Reyes Yesenia , Vissat Krista , Arslanian Silva A. , Brown Kathleen , Guerra Nancy , Porter Kristin , Caprio Sonia , Savoye Mary , Pierpont Bridget , Buchanan Thomas A. , Xiang Anny H. , Trigo Enrique , Beale Elizabeth , Hendee Fadi N. , Katkhouda Namir , Nayak Krishan , Martinez Mayra , Montgomery Cortney , Wang Xinhui , Edelstein Sharon L. , Lachin John M. , Hogan Ashley N. , Marcovina Santica , Harting Jessica , Albers John , Hill Dave , Savage Peter J. , Leschek Ellen W.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

To compare effects of medications and laparoscopic gastric band surgery (LB) on α-cell function in dysglycemic youth and adults in the Restoring Insulin Secretion (RISE) Study protocols.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Glucagon was measured in three randomized, parallel, clinical studies: 1) 91 youth studied at baseline, after 12 months on metformin alone (MET) or glargine followed by metformin (G/M), and 3 months after treatment withdrawal; 2) 267 adults studied at the same time points and treated with MET, G/M, or liraglutide plus metformin (L+M) or given placebo (PLAC); and 3) 88 adults studied at baseline and after 12 and 24 months of LB or MET. Fasting glucagon, glucagon suppression by glucose, and acute glucagon response (AGR) to arginine were assessed during hyperglycemic clamps. Glucagon suppression was also measured during oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs).

RESULTS

No change in fasting glucagon, steady-state glucagon, or AGR was seen at 12 months following treatment with MET or G/M (in youth and adults) or PLAC (in adults). In contrast, L+M reduced these measures at 12 months (all P ≤ 0.005), which was maintained 3 months after treatment withdrawal (all P < 0.01). LB in adults also reduced fasting glucagon, steady-state glucagon, and AGR at 12 and 24 months (P < 0.05 for all, except AGR at 12 months [P = 0.098]). Similarly, glucagon suppression during OGTTs was greater with L+M and LB. Linear models demonstrated that treatment effects on glucagon with L+M and LB were largely associated with weight loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucagon concentrations were reduced by L+M and LB in adults with dysglycemia, an effect principally attributable to weight loss in both interventions.
Efficacy and Safety of Dapagliflozin by Baseline Glycemic Status: A Prespecified Analysis From the DAPA-CKD Trial
Authors: Persson Frederik , Rossing Peter , Vart Priya , Chertow Glenn M. , Hou Fan Fan , Jongs Niels , McMurray John J.V. , Correa-Rotter Ricardo , Bajaj Harpreet S. , Stefansson Bergur V. , Toto Robert D. , Langkilde Anna Maria , Wheeler David C. , Heerspink Hiddo J.L. , Investigators the DAPA-CKD Trial Committees and
Published: June 2021

Objective

DAPA-CKD demonstrated risk reduction for kidney and cardiovascular
outcomes with dapagliflozin versus placebo in participants with chronic kidney
disease (CKD) with and without diabetes. We compared outcomes according to
baseline glycemic status.

Research Design and Methods

We enrolled participants with CKD, estimated
glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

25–75ml/min/1.73m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio 200–5000mg/g.
The primary composite endpoint was sustained eGFR decline ≥50%, end-stage
kidney disease, or kidney or cardiovascular death.

Results

Of 4304 participants, 738 had normoglycemia, 660 pre-diabetes,
and 2906 type 2 diabetes. The effect
of dapagliflozin on the primary outcome was consistent (p-interaction=0.19) in normoglycemia (HR [95%CI] 0.62 [0.39–1.01]), pre-diabetes (HR 0.37 [0.21–0.66])
and type 2 diabetes (HR 0.64 [0.52–0.79]). We found no evidence for effect
modification on any outcome. Adverse events were similar, with no major
hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis in participants with normoglycemia or pre-diabetes.

Conclusions

Dapagliflozin safely reduced kidney and cardiovascular
events independent of baseline glycemic status.
Back to the future: Using prophecy to support Māori student success in tertiary education
Authors: Rangiwai Byron
Published: June 2021

Māori view time differently to Pākehā. Mahuika (2010) argues that the concept of walking backwards into the future is a common one for Māori and other Polynesian peoples. According to Roberts (2005): “It is often said that Māori are a people who “walk backwards into the future,” an aphorism that highlights the importance of seeking to understand the present and make informed decisions about the future through reference to the past” (p. 8). This paper will argue that it is critical for Māori to walk backwards into the future and that our prophecies can be used to support Māori student success in tertiary education.