bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Knowledge and Awareness of Primary Health Care Physicians Working in Hail Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al Shammari Eyad , Ashra Syed Amir * , Al Shammari Raid , Al Rashidi Abdulrahman , Awadelkareem Amir Mahgoub , O. Elkhalifa Abd Elmoneim
Published: September 2021

Nutrition and its awareness play an important role in medical education for the management, as well as in the treatment of various chronic illnesses. Moreover, it always has been a concern about the knowledge and awareness of nutrition among physicians. Therefore, we aimed to study the nutritional knowledge, as well as awareness of primary health care physicians (PHC) working in Hail City, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among PHC physicians working in Hail, Saudi Arabia from September 2019 to December 2019. The questionnaire was distributed to PHC physicians and responses were recorded and data were statistically analyzed by applying Chi-square tests using SPSS 21.0. Questionnaires were circulated to 124 physicians, participated in this study. However, out of 124 physicians only 41 physicians filled out the complete questionnaire, indicating a very poor response rate (33%). The mean percentage of correct answers was 71.56%. Physicians who described their knowledge as “good” were found to be 75%. Furthermore, physicians working in PHC centers were aware of the basic nutritional knowledge regarding food content, pregnancy, lactation, diabetes, hypertension, etc. Our assessment revealed that physicians working in PHC of Hail Region had average nutritional knowledge. Moreover, it was also found that addition of various nutrition related educational programs in medical schools and hospital premises would improve the knowledge and awareness among the physicians.
The Antioxidant Efficacy of Wheatgrass (Triticum Aestivum) on Mercuric Chloride (HgCl2) - Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Model
Authors: Tripathi Renu , Agarwal Swati , Rizvi Syed Ibrahim , Mishra Neetu *
Published: September 2021

Mercury is a harmful toxic pollutant, which has hepato-nephrotoxic, hematotoxic, genotoxic and neurotoxic, effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the protective efficacy of wheatgrass on mercuric chloride (HgCl2) induced oxidative stress and associated complications in rat model. Albino rats were divided into four groups (three rats per group). Group I normal control group. Group II oxidative stressed group received mercuric chloride (0.5 mg/kg/day). Group III only received wheatgrass extract (100 mg/kg/day), whereas Group IV received wheatgrass (100 mg/kg/day) after one hour, followed by mercuric chloride (0.5 mg/kg/day) for 30 days. The results of the study showed that wheatgrass supplementation significantly decreased the HgCl2 induced elevated oxidative stress parameters Plasma Malondialdehyde (MDA) content, Plasma membrane redox system (PMRS), Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), simultaneously elevated lipid profile (Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), liver enzymes as, Plasma Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Serum Urea, and Creatinine levels in rats. In addition, wheatgrass treatment improved the antioxidant status in terms of intracellular Reduced Glutathione (GSH), Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2, 2- diphenyl -1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Therefore it can be concluded that wheatgrass has great potential to diminish the stress-mediated complications and improve the antioxidant status.
Investigating The Bioactive Properties of Cheese-Fruit Combinations Following In Vitro Digestion Using an Elderly Model.
Authors: Plante Aimee M. , McCarthy Aoife L. , Lacey Seán , O’Halloran Fiona
Published: September 2021

The prevalence of disease in older adults is increasing, thus there is a need to develop functional foods for this cohort that can promote healthy aging. This study analyzed cheese combined with fruit to identify if certain cheese-fruit combinations improved the bioactive properties of the cheese. Feta, Reduced-Fat Red Cheddar (RFRC), and Goat’s cheese were combined with different fruit (goji berries, red pepper, or blackberries) and digested with a simulated gastrointestinal in vitro digestion model representative of older adults. Antioxidant potential was investigated using DPPH radical scavenging, Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and Total phenolic content (TPC) assays. The ability of samples to inhibit digestive enzymes was determined using the α-glucosidase inhibition assay. Antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes, Group B Streptococcus and Escherichia coli was investigated by the disc diffusion method. Immunomodulatory potential of the digestates was evaluated by their ability to modulate TNF-α levels in stimulated Jurkat T cells. Results demonstrated that combining RFRC with all fruit significantly (p<0.05) increased both the antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of the cheese (≥90.6% DPPH inhibition, ≥980.5 FRAP µmol Fe2+/kg.fw, and ≥58.1% α-glucosidase inhibition). Reducing potential of all cheese significantly (p<0.05) increased when combined with fruit (≥977.0 FRAP µmol Fe2+/kg.fw). Group B Streptococcus was inhibited by cheese-fruit combinations containing feta and goat’s cheese. Combining fruit with feta altered the immunomodulatory potential of the cheese by significantly (p<0.05) decreasing TNF-α secretion by ≥41%, compared to the control. Novel cheese-fruit combinations that promote synergistic bioactive properties could help design functional foods for older adults that promote healthy aging.
Experiences of newly qualified midwives working in clinical practice during their transition period
Authors: Watson Heather , Brown Donna
Published: September 2021

Background

With greater numbers of midwives being trained to counteract the predicted shortages, it seems that it is now more vital than ever to explore how newly qualified midwives (NQMs) describe their experiences in the clinical environment, the support they have received, and identify barriers to their development during the transition period.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore NQMs experiences of working clinically during the transition from student to qualified midwife.

Method

Using a qualitative approach, eight NQMs participated in semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The findings revealed four key themes that sum up the NQMs experiences: expectations and realities of the role; creating conditions for professional growth; the impact of the care environment; and limitations to creating a healthful culture.

Conclusions

The clearly articulated journey that has been described by the NQMs demonstrated that there is both a need and desire to change, improve and develop the transition period for all new midwives working in clinical practice. Consideration needs to be given to more robust guidance, with some ideas for development, such as support forums for NQMs to meet up on a regular basis; advanced planned rotation with flexibility; a named preceptor/‘buddy’ in each clinical area; and a shared online forum to allow the NQMs to discuss and share experiences, and to signpost to any useful information or learning opportunities available.
Safeguarding pressures
Authors: Foster Mark
Published: September 2021

Mark Foster discusses a newly released report
Supporting plant-based patients
Authors: Alcraft Tom
Published: September 2021

Tom Alcraft explains how veganism can affect oral health
Strength and stability
Authors: Shathur Vian
Published: September 2021

Vian Shathur explains how you can avoid back pain at work
A helping hand
Authors: Harding Jill
Published: September 2021

Jill Harding explains how dental nurses can benefit themselves and their community
Development of a patient-reported outcome measure in limb reconstruction
Authors: Wright Jonathan , Timms Anna , Fugazzotto Sharon , Goodier David , Calder Peter
Published: September 2021

Aims

Patients undergoing limb reconstruction surgery often face a challenging and lengthy process to complete their treatment journey. The majority of existing outcome measures do not adequately capture the patient-reported outcomes relevant to this patient group in a single measure. Following a previous systematic review, the Stanmore Limb Reconstruction Score (SLRS) was designed with the intent to address this need for an effective instrument to measure patient-reported outcomes in limb reconstruction patients. We aim to assess the face validity of this score in a pilot study.

Methods

The SLRS was designed following structured interviews with several groups including patients who have undergone limb reconstruction surgery, limb reconstruction surgeons, specialist nurses, and physiotherapists. This has subsequently undergone further adjustment for language and clarity. The score was then trialled on ten patients who had undergone limb reconstruction surgery, with subsequent structured questioning to understand the perceived suitability of the score.

Results

Ten patients completed the score and the subsequent structured interview. Considering the tool as a whole, 100% of respondents felt the score to be comprehensible, relevant, and comprehensive regarding the areas that were important to a patient undergoing limb reconstruction surgery. For individual questions, on a five-point Likert scale, importance/relevance was reported as a mean of 4.78 (4.3 to 5.0), with ability to understand rated as 4.92 (4.7 to 5.0) suggesting high levels of relevance and comprehension. Flesch-Kincaid reading grade level was calculated as 5.2 (10 to 11 years old).

Conclusion

The current SLRS has been shown to have acceptable scores from a patient sample regarding relevance, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness. This suggests face validity, however further testing required and is ongoing in a larger cohort of patients to determine the reliability, responsiveness, precision, and criterion validity of the score in this patient group. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(9):705–709.
VR Tools – A Free Open-source Platform for Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications on the Web
Authors: Costa Lucas Diniz da , Rozatto Paulo Victor de Magalhães , Oliveira André Luiz Cunha de , Silva Rodrigo Luis de Souza da
Published: September 2021

This paper aims to introduce a free educational web platform that offers a repository for viewing interactive content, using Computer Graphics (CG), Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) resources. The platform provides curatorship for third party and copyright projects. Within the scope of this research, two projects of the platform were subject to a qualitative evaluation. The evaluation carried out focused on the analysis of the motivating potential of using the platform during the distance teaching-learning process. It was possible to collect positive evidence about its viability for use in supporting both presential and remote learning.
Nonlinear optical limiting effect of graphene dispersions at 1064  nm
Authors: Xie Youwen , Lu Yuangang , Huang Jian , Wu Zhengnan , Xu Feng , Zuo Dunwen
Published: September 2021

We study the nonlinear optical limiting effect of graphene dispersions in ethanol and acetone at a wavelength of 1064 nm. The nonlinear optical limiting effect of graphene dispersion under three different linear transmittances (about 70%, 80%, and 90%), two different thicknesses (1 and 3 cm), and two different solvents (ethanol and acetone) are measured. The influences of concentration, thickness, and solvent on the nonlinear optical limiting effect of the graphene dispersion are analyzed. The experimental results show that the concentration and solution thicknesses have great influence on the optical limiting ability of graphene dispersions. The graphene dispersions with ethanol and acetone as solvents can be used to achieve excellent nonlinear optical limiting effects. The optical limiting ability of the graphene dispersion in acetone is better than that of the graphene dispersion in ethanol.
Experimental realization of integrated photonic reservoir computing for nonlinear fiber distortion compensation
Authors: Sackesyn Stijn , Ma Chonghuai , Dambre Joni , Bienstman Peter
Published: September 2021

Nonlinearity mitigation in optical fiber networks is typically handled by electronic Digital Signal Processing (DSP) chips. Such DSP chips are costly, power-hungry and can introduce high latencies. Therefore, optical techniques are investigated which are more efficient in both power consumption and processing cost. One such a machine learning technique is optical reservoir computing, in which a photonic chip can be trained on certain tasks, with the potential advantages of higher speed, reduced power consumption and lower latency compared to its electronic counterparts. In this paper, experimental results are presented where nonlinear distortions in a 32 GBPS OOK signal are mitigated to below the 0.2 × 10−3 FEC limit using a photonic reservoir. Furthermore, the results of the reservoir chip are compared to a tapped delay line filter to clearly show that the system performs nonlinear equalisation.
Geometric control of vector vortex light beams via a linear coupling system
Authors: Liu Guohua , Fu Shenhe , Zhang Xiliang , Yin Hao , Li Zhen , Chen Zhenqiang
Published: September 2021

We demonstrate a novel theoretical platform to realize geometric control of vector vortex states in an optical coupling system. These complex states are characterized by spatially varying polarizations and coupled with vortex phase profiles. It can be mapped uniquely as a point on a higher-order Poincaré sphere. The geometric theory clearly reveals how a tailored phase mismatch profile, together with a suitable coupling, supports state conversion between these higher-order complex light fields, in analogous to the processes appearing in two-level quantum system as well as three-wave mixing process in nonlinear optics. Specifically, in the phase matching condition, it is shown that these complex states carried by an envelope field exhibit periodic oscillations in the course of state evolution; whereas in the phase mismatching condition the oscillations become detuned, leading to noncyclic state evolution. Intriguingly, when using an adiabatic technique for the phase mismatch, robust state conversion between two arbitrary vector vortex light fields can be realized. Our demonstrations provide a fully control over the vector vortex states on the sphere, and we suggest that it would benefit various potential applications both in the classical and the quantum optics.
Spatial light path analysis and calibration of four-mirror-based monocular stereo vision
Authors: Li Xiao , Li Wei , Ma Xin , Yuan Xin’an , Yin Xiaokang , Chen Xingpei , Zhao Jianming
Published: September 2021

The feasibility and accuracy of four-mirror-based monocular stereo vision (FMSV) are related to the system layout and calibration accuracy, respectively. In this study, a spatial light path analysis method and a calibration method are proposed for an FMSV system. As two-dimensional light path analysis cannot fully characterize the imaging parameters, a spatial light path model is proposed, which allows refinement of the system design. Then, considering the relationship between the lens distortion and the imaging depth of field (DoF), a DoF-distortion equal-partition-based model is established. In the traditional calibration method, the optical axis must be perpendicular to the chessboard. Here, an accurate and practical FMSV calibration method without this constraint is proposed based on the above model. Using the proposed spatial light path analysis technique, a high-accuracy, high-portability FMSV system is constructed and calibrated, for which the average error of the vision-reconstructed distance is 0.0298 mm. In addition, robot path accuracy is evaluated by the system and compared to laser-tracker measurement results. Hence, high accuracy of 0.031 mm is determined for the proposed vision system.
Efficient harnessing of light from nanoscale emitters deterministically placed through polymer-pen lithography at the focus of 3D-printed ellipsoidal micro-lenses
Authors: Kottaram Amrithanath Abhishek , Krishnaswamy Sridhar
Published: September 2021

Collecting significant and measurable signals from the typically omnidirectional emission of nanoscale emitters is challenging. To improve the collection efficiency, it is essential to deterministically place the emitters in desired locations and design mode converters to match the modes of emission to those of the collection system. In this Letter, we propose the deterministic placement of nanoscale emitters using a pick-and-place technique called polymer-pen lithography. We demonstrate the concept with upconversion nanoparticles placed deterministically at the focus of three-dimensional-printed ellipsoidal micro-lenses. A significant part of the forward-going emission is collimated leading to increased collection efficiency, even at low numerical apertures of the collecting optics. The proposed approach lends itself to hybrid integration for fiber-to-chip and on-chip applications.
C-band four-channel CWDM (de-)multiplexers on a thin film lithium niobate–silicon rich nitride hybrid platform
Authors: Liu Yang , Huang Xingrui , Guan Huan , Yu Zhiguo , Wei Qingquan , Fan Zhongchao , Han Weihua , Li Zhiyong
Published: September 2021

A four-channel coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) (de)multiplexer on a thin film lithium niobate–silicon rich nitride hybrid platform has been designed, fabricated, and experimentally measured. Enabled by cascaded multimode waveguide Bragg gratings, the (de)multiplexer has a box-like spectral response, wide 1-dB bandwidth (10 nm), low excess loss (

<

1.08

d
B

), and low channel cross talk (

<
−

18

d
B

). The central wavelengths of the (de-)multiplexer are 1531/1551/1571/1591 nm, which align to the wavelength grids stipulated by the standard ITU-T G.694.2.
Giant magneto-optical rotation effect in rubidium vapor measured with a low-cost detection system
Authors: Zhu C. J. , Guan J. , Zhou F. , Zhu E. Y. , Li Yan
Published: September 2021

With substantial improvements on the optical arrangement, we show that significant enhancement of the magneto-optical rotation effect in rubidium vapor can be achieved without using complex and expensive heterodyne polarimetric methods. The huge signal-to-noise ratio performance using low cost photo-detectors opens the door to chip-sized device manufacturing and in-situ applications in biomagnetism.
Submegahertz spectral width photon pair source based on fused silica microspheres
Authors: Ortiz-Ricardo Erasto , Bertoni-Ocampo Cesar , Maldonado-Terrón Mónica , Garcia Zurita Arturo , Ramirez-Alarcon Roberto , Cruz Ramirez Hector , Castro-Beltrán R. , U’Ren Alfred B.
Published: September 2021

High-efficiency submegahertz bandwidth photon pair generators will enable the field of quantum technology to transition from laboratory demonstrations to transformational applications involving information transfer from photons to atoms. While spontaneous parametric processes are able to achieve high-efficiency photon pair generation, the spectral bandwidth tends to be relatively large, as defined by phase-matching constraints. To solve this fundamental limitation, we use an ultrahigh quality factor (

Q

) fused silica microsphere resonant cavity to form a photon pair generator. We present the full theory for the spontaneous four-wave mixing (SFWM) process in these devices, fully taking into account all relevant source characteristics in our experiments. The exceptionally narrow (down to kilohertz-scale) linewidths of these devices result in a reduction in the bandwidth of the photon pair generation, allowing submegahertz spectral bandwidth to be achieved. Specifically, using a pump source centered around 1550 nm, photon pairs with the signal and idler modes at wavelengths close to 1540 and 1560 nm, respectively, are demonstrated. We herald a single idler-mode photon by detecting the corresponding signal photon, filtered via transmission through a wavelength division multiplexing channel of choice. We demonstrate the extraction of the spectral profile of a single peak in the single-photon frequency comb from a measurement of the signal–idler time of emission distribution. These improvements in device design and experimental methods enabled the narrowest spectral width (

Δ
ν
=
366
  
kHz

) to date in a heralded single-photon source based on SFWM.
Skepticism and defiance: Assessing credibility and representations of science
Authors: Tavani Jean Louis , Piermattéo Anthony , Lo Monaco Grégory , Delouvée Sylvain
Published: September 2021

Since the 1970s, there has been a growing interest in how individuals appropriate scientific knowledge, which has recently been reinforced by societal issues such as vaccine releases and skepticism about global warming. Faced with the health and social consequences of the mistrust of scientific knowledge, there is an urgent need for tools to measure the acceptance or rejection of scientific knowledge, while at the same time gaining a more detailed understanding of the processes involved. This is the purpose of this article. Thus, we conducted 4 empirical studies to provide a validation of the Credibility of Science Scale from the perspective of a French population, which aims to assess the credibility that individuals attribute to science and to empirically evaluate the link that may exist between the different levels of credibility attributed to science and the social representations of science. Studies 1a and 1b demonstrated good structural validity, the good fidelity (homogeneity and temporal stability), and the good criterion validity of the French version of the scale. In Study 2, we observed the same psychometric qualities of the French version of the scale. We also noted a structuring of the social representation of science based on age (Factor 1) and on the credibility attributed to science (Factor 2). Our results also raise the question of possible means of intervention to promote a better perception of science.
Racial and ethnic differentials in COVID-19-related job exposures by occupational standing in the US
Authors: Goldman Noreen , Pebley Anne R. , Lee Keunbok , Andrasfay Theresa , Pratt Boriana
Published: September 2021

Researchers and journalists have argued that work-related factors may be partly responsible for disproportionate COVID-19 infection and death rates among vulnerable groups. We evaluate these issues by describing racial and ethnic differences in the likelihood of work-related exposure to COVID-19. We extend previous studies by considering 12 racial and ethnic groups and five types of potential occupational exposure to the virus: exposure to infection, physical proximity to others, face-to-face discussions, interactions with external customers and the public, and working indoors. Most importantly, we stratify our results by occupational standing, defined as the proportion of workers within each occupation with at least some college education. This measure serves as a proxy for whether workplaces and workers employ COVID-19-related risk reduction strategies. We use the 2018 American Community Survey to identify recent workers by occupation, and link 409 occupations to information on work context from the Occupational Information Network to identify potential COVID-related risk factors. We then examine the racial/ethnic distribution of all frontline workers and frontline workers at highest potential risk of COVID-19, by occupational standing and by sex. The results indicate that, contrary to expectation, White frontline workers are often overrepresented in high-risk jobs while Black and Latino frontline workers are generally underrepresented in these jobs. However, disaggregation of the results by occupational standing shows that, in contrast to Whites and several Asian groups, Latino and Black frontline workers are overrepresented in lower standing occupations overall and in lower standing occupations associated with high risk, and thus may be less likely to have adequate COVID-19 protections. Our findings suggest that greater work exposures likely contribute to a higher prevalence of COVID-19 among Latino and Black adults and underscore the need for measures to reduce potential exposure for workers in low standing occupations and for the development of programs outside the workplace.
Modeling the effects of contact-tracing apps on the spread of the coronavirus disease: Mechanisms, conditions, and efficiency
Authors: Chiba Asako
Published: September 2021

This study simulates the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) using a detailed agent-based model and the census data of Japan to provide a comprehensive analysis of the effects of contact-tracing apps. The model assumes two types of response to the app notification: the notified individuals quarantine themselves (type-Q response) or they get tested (type-T response). The results reveal some crucial characteristics of the apps. First, type-Q response is successful in achieving containment; however, type-T response has a limited curve-flattening effect. Second, type-Q response performs better than type-T response because it involves quarantine of those who are infected but have not become infectious yet, and the current testing technology cannot detect the virus in these individuals. Third, if the download rate of the apps is extremely high, type-Q response can achieve virus containment with a small number of quarantined people and thereby high efficiency. Finally, given a fixed download rate, increasing the number of tests per day enhances the effectiveness of the apps, although the degree of improved effectiveness is not proportional to the change in the number of tests.
Community evolution in retweet networks
Authors: Evkoski Bojan , Mozetič Igor , Ljubešić Nikola , Kralj Novak Petra
Published: September 2021

Communities in social networks often reflect close social ties between their members and their evolution through time. We propose an approach that tracks two aspects of community evolution in retweet networks: flow of the members in, out and between the communities, and their influence. We start with high resolution time windows, and then select several timepoints which exhibit large differences between the communities. For community detection, we propose a two-stage approach. In the first stage, we apply an enhanced Louvain algorithm, called Ensemble Louvain, to find stable communities. In the second stage, we form influence links between these communities, and identify linked super-communities. For the detected communities, we compute internal and external influence, and for individual users, the retweet h-index influence. We apply the proposed approach to three years of Twitter data of all Slovenian tweets. The analysis shows that the Slovenian tweetosphere is dominated by politics, that the left-leaning communities are larger, but that the right-leaning communities and users exhibit significantly higher impact. An interesting observation is that retweet networks change relatively gradually, despite such events as the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic or the change of government.
Effect of Covid-19 pandemic on tourist travel risk and management perceptions
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Khalilur , Gazi Md. Abu Issa , Bhuiyan Miraj Ahmed , Rahaman Md. Atikur
Published: September 2021

This study aims to explore the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on tourists’ travel risk and management perceptions. Driven on the effect of the pandemic, we investigate tourists’ travel risk and management perceptions and its effect on society using a sample of 716 respondents. The data was collected through social media platforms using a representative sampling method and analyzed applying the PLS-SEM tool. The findings reveal that Covid-19 pandemic has greatly affected travel risk and management perceptions. Travel risk and management perception had a significant association with risk management, service delivery, transportation patterns, distribution channels, avoidance of overpopulated destinations, and hygiene and safety. The results also identified the mediating effect of travel risk and management perceptions. The finding of this study contributes to tourism crises and provides future research insights in the travel and tourism sector and response to change tourists’ travel risk and management perceptions in the post-covid recovery period.
Platelets’ RNA as biomarker trove for differentiation of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma from underlying cirrhotic nodules
Authors: Waqar Walifa , Asghar Sidra , Manzoor Sobia
Published: September 2021

Background & aims

Among the multiplicity of factors involved in rising incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-the second deadliest cancer, late diagnosis of early-stage HCC nodules originating from late-stage cirrhotic nodules is the most crucial. In recent years, Tumor-educated platelets (TEPs) have emerged as a strong multimodal tool to be used in liquid-biopsy of cancers because of changes in their mRNA content. This study assessed the reliability of selected mRNA repertoire of platelets as biomarkers to differentiate early HCC from late-stage cirrhotic nodules.

Methods

Quantitative real time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to evaluate expression levels of selected platelets-specific mRNA between HCC patients compared to cirrhosis patients. ROC curve analysis assessed the sensitivity and specificity of the biomarkers.

Results

RhoA, CTNNB1 and SPINK1 showed a significant 3.3-, 3.2- and 3.18-folds upregulation, respectively, in HCC patients compared to cirrhosis patients while IFITM3 and SERPIND1 presented a 2.24-fold change. Strikingly, CD41+ platelets also demonstrated a marked difference of expression in HCC and cirrhosis groups.

Conclusions

Our study reports liquid biopsy-based platelets mRNA signature for early diagnosis of HCC from underlying cirrhotic nodules. Moreover, differential expression of CD41+ platelets in two groups provides new insights into a probable link between CD41 expression on platelets with the progression of cirrhosis to HCC.
Effectiveness of blended learning in pharmacy education: An experimental study using clinical research modules
Authors: Balakrishnan Athira , Nair Sreedharan , Kunhikatta Vijayanarayana , Rashid Muhammed , Unnikrishnan M. K. , Jagannatha P. S. , Chandran Viji P. , Khera Kanav , Thunga Girish
Published: September 2021

Background &objectives

Though there are studies to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning in pharmacy education, most of them originate from USA and have used previous year students’ scores as control. Also there is less research in comparing use of self -regulated learning strategies between blended and other learning strategies. Primary aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning on knowledge score using clinical research modules. Secondary objective was designed to compare the use of self-regulated learning strategies between blended learning, web-based e-learning and didactic teaching.

Materials and methods

A prospective cluster randomized trial was conducted with didactic teaching as control and web-based e-learning and blended learning as interventions. The target population was final year Pharm D students. Outcome was assessed using a validated knowledge questionnaire, a motivated strategies for learning questionnaire and a feedback form. All statistical analyses were carried out using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 20.

Results

A total of 241 students from 12 colleges completed the study. Mean knowledge score of students in blended learning group was higher than those in the didactic teaching and web- based e- learning program (64.26±18.19 Vs 56.65±8.73 Vs 52.11±22.06,p<0.001).Frequency of use of learning strategies namely rehearsal, elaboration, organization and critical thinking was statistically significantly higher in the blended learning group compared to those of didactic and web-based e-learning group (p<0.05) But there were no statistically significant difference of motivational orientations between didactic and blended learning group except strategies of extrinsic goal orientation and self-efficacy. Students preferred blended learning (86.5%) over didactic and web-based e-learning.

Conclusion

Blended learning approach is an effective way to teach clinical research module. Students of blended learning group employed all motivational and learning strategies more often than students of the didactic and web- based e-learning groups except strategies of intrinsic goal orientation, task value, control of learning belief and help seeking.
Classifying patients with depressive and anxiety disorders according to symptom network structures: A Gaussian graphical mixture model-based clustering
Authors: Kashihara Jun , Takebayashi Yoshitake , Kunisato Yoshihiko , Ito Masaya
Published: September 2021

Patients with mental disorders often suffer from comorbidity. Transdiagnostic understandings of mental disorders are expected to provide more accurate and detailed descriptions of psychopathology and be helpful in developing efficient treatments. Although conventional clustering techniques, such as latent profile analysis, are useful for the taxonomy of psychopathology, they provide little implications for targeting specific symptoms in each cluster. To overcome these limitations, we introduced Gaussian graphical mixture model (GGMM)-based clustering, a method developed in mathematical statistics to integrate clustering and network statistical approaches. To illustrate the technical details and clinical utility of the analysis, we applied GGMM-based clustering to a Japanese sample of 1,521 patients (Mage= 42.42 years), who had diagnostic labels of major depressive disorder (MDD;n= 406), panic disorder (PD;n= 198), social anxiety disorder (SAD;n= 116), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD;n= 66), comorbid MDD and any anxiety disorder (n= 636), or comorbid anxiety disorders (n= 99). As a result, we identified the following four transdiagnostic clusters characterized by i) strong OCD and PD symptoms, and moderate MDD and SAD symptoms; ii) moderate MDD, PD, and SAD symptoms, and weak OCD symptoms; iii) weak symptoms of all four disorders; and iv) strong symptoms of all four disorders. Simultaneously, a covariance symptom network within each cluster was visualized. The discussion highlighted that the GGMM-based clusters help us generate clinical hypotheses for transdiagnostic clusters by enabling further investigations of each symptom network, such as the calculation of centrality indexes.
A harmful religio-cultural practice (Chhaupadi) during menstruation among adolescent girls in Nepal: Prevalence and policies for eradication
Authors: Thakuri Dipendra S. , Thapa Roshan K. , Singh Samikshya , Khanal Geha N. , Khatri Resham B.
Published: September 2021

Background

Chhaupadi is a deeply rooted tradition and a centuries-old harmful religio-cultural practice. Chhaupadi is common in some parts of Karnali and Sudurpaschim Provinces of western Nepal, where women and girls are considered impure, unclean, and untouchable in the menstrual period or immediately following childbirth. In Chhaupadi practice, women and girls are isolated from a range of daily household chores, social events and forbidden from touching other people and objects. Chhaupadi tradition banishes women and girls into menstruation huts’, or Chhau huts or livestock sheds to live and sleep. These practices are guided by existing harmful beliefs and practices in western Nepal, resulting in poor menstrual hygiene and poor physical and mental health outcomes. This study examined the magnitude of Chhaupadi practice and reviewed the existing policies for Chhaupadi eradication in Nepal.

Methods

We used both quantitative survey and qualitative content analysis of the available policies. First, a quantitative cross-sectional survey assessed the prevalence of Chhaupadi among 221 adolescent girls in Mangalsen Municipality of Achham district. Second, the contents of prevailing policies on Chhaupadi eradication were analysed qualitatively using the policy cube framework.

Results

The current survey revealed that most adolescent girls (84%) practised Chhaupadi in their most recent menstruation. The Chhaupadi practice was high if the girls were aged 15–17 years, born to an illiterate mother, and belonged to a nuclear family. Out of the girls practising Chhaupadi, most (86%) reported social and household activities restrictions. The policy content analysis of identified higher-level policy documents (constitution, acts, and regulations) have provisioned financial resources, ensured independent monitoring mechanisms, and had judiciary remedial measures. However, middle (policies and plans) and lower-level (directives) documents lacked adequate budgetary commitment and independent monitoring mechanisms.

Conclusion

Chhaupadi remains prevalent in western Nepal and has several impacts to the health of adolescent girls. Existing policy mechanisms lack multilevel (individual, family, community, subnational and national) interventions, including financial and monitoring systems for Chhaupadi eradication. Eradicating Chhaupadi practice requires a robust multilevel implementation mechanism at the national and sub-national levels, including adequate financing and accountable systems up to the community level.
Flora Anemokori Hijaukan Bumi
Authors:   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences, Latifah Dian , Sudarmono Sudarmono ,   Indonesian Institute Of Sciences
Published: September 2021

Dalam rangka menjunjung tinggi tugas tersebut, LIPI Press melalui salah satu terbitan ilmiahnya, Flora Anemokori Hijaukan Bumi, berusaha memperkenalkan peran (biji-biji) flora anemokori dalam menjaga ekosistem dan melestarikan eksistensi jenis-jenis tumbuhan. Dengan memanfaatkan angin sebagai agen pemencar, biji-biji flora anemokori ini mampu mencapai lokasi tempat ia akan tumbuh dan berkembang sebagai tanaman baru. Sebanyak 52 jenis koleksi biji anemokori Pusat Konservasi Tumbuhan Kebun Raya LIPI dipertelakan dalam buku ini. Pertelaan tersebut didapat dari pengamatan sekunder menggunakan sumber-sumber referensi buku-buku teks dan referensi daring maupun pengamatan langsung di Pusat Konservasi Tumbuhan (PKT) Kebun Raya Bogor, Balai Konservasi Tumbuhan (BKT) Kebun Raya Cibodas, BKT Kebun Raya Purwodadi, dan BKT Kebun Raya Bali
Über die Grenzen des Bildes
Authors: Mersmann Birgit
Published: September 2021

Im globalisierten Vernetzungsraum der Kunstsphäre befinden sich bildkulturelle Grenzen zwischen nationalen und regionalen Künsten zunehmend in Auflösung. Wo lassen sich Grenzverschiebungen im globalen Feld moderner und zeitgenössischer Kunst orten? Durch welche differenziellen Sicht- und Darstellungsweisen werden Abgrenzungen markiert und Bildkulturkonflikte befördert? In welchen Kontaktzonen und unter welchen Kulturtransferbedingungen bilden sich transkulturelle Dynamiken heraus? Aus der Perspektive kulturwissenschaftlicher Bildforschung erkundet Birgit Mersmann Grenzziehungen, Grenzverhandlungen und Grenzüberschreitungen zwischen westlicher, asiatischer und arabischer Bildkunst.
Projeto Cerrado – Primavera
Authors: Azevedo Costa Neto Anésio , Araujo Nivalda Assunção
Published: September 2021

O objetivo central deste artigo é apresentar os ambientes multiperceptivos forjados a partir de materialidades sonoro-visuais, entendidas enquanto abstrações ou excertos da experiência do artista advindas do Cerrado. Nossa finalidade é propor poéticas de imersão na complexidade envolvida nos processos naturais que definem as paisagens daquele domínio morfoclimático. O ato poético, que assoma significado à materialidade percebida, é denominado “manobra”, e acaba por modelar espaços não-naturais onde são oferecidos [(affordances), GIBSON, 1981] estímulos perceptivos a resgatar a experiência do artista nas paisagens do Cerrado.
NIRF India Rankings 2020 Analyzing the Ranking Parameters and Score of Top 100 Universities
Authors: Kumar Amit , Singh Kuldeep , Siwach Anil Kumar
Published: September 2021

National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) was launched on 29 September 2015 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India to rank the academic & research institutions across the country. The NIRF E-release of India Ranking 2020 was held on 11th June 2020. The present study analyses the top 100 Universities in terms of visualisation of data, the relationship of ranking with the parameters, and the relations among these parameters. Results of the study indicate that the Teaching, Learning & Resources (TLR) score for all the universities was almost similar while Research and Professional Practice (RP) score had a considerable variation and played a significant role in ranking by having a positive linear correlation with the total score with the value of R2= 0.746. RP also has a strong correlation with the Peer Perception (PR) of the university. The average library expenditure of top-10 universities was 9.45 crore per annum. It was also found that library expenditure has a positive correlation with RP and the universities with higher research productivity also have a more outstanding quality of publication in terms of citations.
Analysis of envirIonmental journalism in the written press in times of pandemic in Colombia
Authors: Herrera Huérfano Eliana , Martínez Páez Laura Melina , Noreña Wiswell Maria Isabel
Published: September 2021

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación realizada con el objetivo de comprender la relación entre esta pandemia y el medioambiente, tema crucial en la coyuntura porque la propagación global de la COVID-19 se convirtió en un momento para repensar nuestra relación con el planeta, asunto que los medios contribuyen a debatir. Se hizo un análisis de la cobertura periodística en El Tiempo y El Espectador durante los tres meses de confinamiento estricto. La metodología utilizada fue el análisis del tratamiento informativo a partir de las categorías de cubrimiento y despliegue en el marco de una convergencia mediática. Entre los principales hallazgos encontramos una alta procedencia de información de agencias; predominio de la noticia como género y un promedio de fuentes consultadas cuya calidad favorece la diversidad de voces e intereses. Además, el tema predominante en El Espectador es la reducción de la contaminación por el confinamiento, mientras que en El Tiempo son las acciones desfavorables para el medioambiente. El enfoque ambiental general en las publicaciones es antropocentrista y la narrativa periodística sigue las lógicas análogas, desaprovechando las potencialidades del ecosistema digital.
Saberes y acciones de jóvenes del medio rural frente a problemas ambientales
Authors: Méndez Cadena María Esther , Fascinetto Bárcena Gabrielle , Ocampo Fletes Ignacio , López Sánchez Higinio
Published: September 2021

Contexto: La humanidad enfrenta una crisis ambiental causada por el antropocentrismo del hombre contra la naturaleza. Los esfuerzos desde la educación ambiental representan una opción alentadora para el cuidado al medio ambiente por ello se considera que la formación hacia el derecho humano a un ambiente sano resulta una opción positiva. Objetivo: El objetivo del trabajo fue identificar la representación social sobre los saberes de jóvenes de un entorno rural y su posición frente a la problemática ambiental que afecta su medio ambiente. Metodología: Se aplicó un cuestionario a 260 estudiantes, 143 mujeres y 117 hombres, de las carreras Técnico en agricultura sustentable y Técnico en informática del Centro de Bachillerato Tecnológico Agropecuario (CBTA) No. 254 “Aquiles Serdán Alatriste” de Cuacnopalan, Palmar de Bravo (Puebla, México). La información se organizó por medio del Análisis de Redes (ARS) para conocer la representación social sobre la problemática ambiental, las afectaciones de ésta, las acciones para atender estas afectaciones, y sobre los derechos humanos. Resultados: Los resultados mostraron que los estudiantes relacionan la problemática ambiental con la basura y no identifican de manera clara las afectaciones de esta problemática en sus vidas diarias; las actividades que realizan en consecuencia a la problemática ambiental se vinculan fuertemente a las 3 “R” (reciclar, reusar y reducir). Conclusiones: Los estudiantes tienen una visión horizontal de los derechos humanos, en especial con relación al medio ambiente sano. Financiamiento: Este trabajo fue financiado por el Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología.
Making use of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): rethinking issues of routinization and pressure
Authors: Schöne-Seifert Bettina , Junker Chiara
Published: September 2021

First mapping the main ethical issues surrounding prenatal testing, we then analyze which concerns are specific to non-invasive methods. Presupposing the privatization premise for reproductive autonomy in fundamentally liberal societies, we go on to specify common concerns about non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) covered by the term ‘routinization’, and conceptually unravel the frequently expressed worry of increasing ‘pressure’ to test and/or terminate affected pregnancies. We argue that mindful decision-making should be a key educational goal (not only) of NIPT counseling which could be achieved through stepwise disclosure. In addition, we identify indirect social pressure as the most plausible threat to reproductive freedom. While continuous efforts need to be made to prevent such pressure – not least by ensuring balanced availability of options –, restricting testing options, and thus freedom of choice, cannot be the answer to this concern. Lastly, we suggest abandoning the vague term ‘routinization’ and instead focusing on specified concerns to enable a fruitful debate.
Thermal stability, mechanical properties, and gamma radiation shielding performance of polyvinyl chloride/Pb(NO3)2 composites
Authors: Waly Sayed A. , Abdelreheem Ahmed M. , Shehata Mohamed M. , Ghazy Omayma A. , Ali Zakaria I.
Published: September 2021

Radiation shielding composites based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) reinforced with different weight ratios of Pb(NO3)2 (5, 10, and 20 wt%) were prepared using the solution-casting technique. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy, and tensile testing method were used to characterize the PVC composite films. FTIR and XRD investigations illustrate the structural change and modification of the as-prepared PVC composites. The morphological analysis of the composite revealed that Pb(NO3)2 was dispersed uniformly within PVC polymer matrix. TGA revealed that the incorporation of Pb(NO3)2 improved the thermal stability of the investigated composites, whereas adding Pb(NO3)2 to the polymer matrix worsened its tensile properties. The as-prepared composite films were investigated for radiation-shielding of gamma-rays radioactive point sources (241Am, 133Ba, 137Cs, and 60Co). Linear attenuation coefficient (μ, cm−1), mass attenuation coefficient (μ/ρ, cm2/g), and half-value layer (HVL, cm) have been estimated from the obtained data using the MicroShield program. Reasonable agreement was attended between theoretical and experimental results. The deviation between the experiment and theoretical values of mass attenuation coefficient is being to be lower than 9%, and this can be correlated to the good distribution of Pb(NO3)2. The results revealed that adding Pb(NO3)2 to PVC polymer composites improved their mass attenuation coefficient.