bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Among Students in Public Institutions of Higher Education in Arkansas in 2021
Authors: Zohoori Namvar , Barsotti Tara , Porter Austin , Brown Clare , Amick Benjamin C. , Cima Mike , Gandy Jay , Markham Maria
Published: August 2023

Objective:

Disparities in COVID-19 vaccine coverage among college students are not well studied. We analyzed the extent of COVID-19 vaccination among all students at public institutions of higher education in Arkansas in spring and fall 2021 and examined factors associated with vaccination rates.

Methods:

We matched student enrollment data for the spring and fall 2021 semesters separately with immunization registry data to determine the COVID-19 vaccination status of students in each semester. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine variables associated with being fully vaccinated.

Results:

Overall, by the end of the fall 2021 semester, 49.1% of students were fully vaccinated, compared with 52.3% of students at the end of the spring 2021 semester. However, we observed important differences between student groups. Students who were in rural areas (vs urban areas), freshman (vs all other class years), at a 2-year college (vs 4-year college), non-Hispanic Black (vs Hispanic or non-Hispanic White), or in a nonhealth major (vs health major) were less likely to be fully vaccinated.

Conclusion:

Given the disparities in COVID-19 vaccine coverage among college students, continued efforts are needed in this young, but important, population segment to address students’ confidence in vaccines and to make vaccines more available and accessible on and near campuses. Novel approaches for tailored messaging and interventions to facilitate vaccine uptake may be needed for groups such as non-Hispanic Black students and students in rural areas who are less likely, compared with their counterparts, to accept COVID-19 vaccines.
Lived experiences of educators and leaders in multi-academy trusts in England: The colonisation of schools, the erosion of community engagement and the need for alternative futures
Authors: Walker Emma , Pennington Andrew , Wood Margaret , Su Feng
Published: August 2023

Reconceptualising the neoliberal project in education as a process of colonisation, this paper considers the effects of what the authors argue amounts to a reconstitution of schooling in England. This argument examines how the narrative about education’s liberatory purposes in support of human flourishing that gained particular prominence in the social democratic consensus following 1945, is becoming eroded and subjugated by a neo-colonial imaginary. This disavows past connections to local communities and undermines a democratic polity. The ontological colonisation of schools and teachers by ways of working rooted in neoliberalism is examined by drawing on research on the lived experience of schools and Multi Academy Trusts (MATs) and the narratives of educators and leaders who are part of them. The narratives illustrate how such neo-colonial processes appear to appropriate and reconstitute teacher identities and shape schools’ connections with their communities. The authors analyse and interpret narratives of those in schools and the spaces to re-construct and re-imagine possible alternative futures.
Optimizing aortic valve prosthesis selection in patients with obesity: Institutional experience with multidisciplinary perspective
Authors: Balkanay Ozan Onur , Bulut Halil Ibrahim , Albrahimi Ergida , Mirizade Miri , Yenigün Abdulgani Orhun , Tomey Daniel , Bistre Jacques , Oviedo Rodolfo J , Tel Ustunisik Cigdem , Arapi Berk , Goksedef Deniz , Omeroglu Suat Nail , Ipek Gokhan
Published: August 2023

Background

Aortic valve diseases are life-threatening conditions with increasing prevalence worldwide. Risk factors include gender, age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes. Obesity is closely related to these risk factors and has been linked to a higher risk of developing aortic valve diseases. However, there is no specific guideline for managing aortic valve disease in patients with obesity, and the choice of valve type remains uncertain.

Methods

A total of 130 patients with obesity who met the inclusion criteria underwent surgical aortic valve replacement. The patients were divided into two groups based on the type of prosthesis used. Among the study cohort, 50 patients received a bioprosthetic valve, while 80 patients received a mechanical valve. We compared these groups in terms of perioperative characteristics and follow-up results. Statistical significance was determined using a p-value threshold of 0.05.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, gender, body mass index, or cardiac comorbidities between the two groups. Preoperative blood results and echo findings also showed no significant differences. Intraoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes, including mortality and acute kidney injury, did not differ significantly between the groups. In addition, BHVG patients had shorter ICU stays compared to MHVG patients without significance.

Conclusion

Deliberate consideration is crucial when selecting valves for obese patients, particularly those with class II obesity. This is due to the potential influence of obesity on valve types, as well as the need to account for the possibility of bariatric surgery and its potential effects.
The placebo effect of a pink non-caloric, artificially sweetened solution on strength endurance performance and psychological responses in trained individuals
Authors: de Salles Painelli Vitor , Fernandes Edvania , Brietzke Cayque , Pires Flávio O.
Published: August 2023

Background: The pink color enhances the perceived sweetness, increasing the individuals’ expectation of the presence of sugar/carbohydrate in a beverage. Hence, it is plausible to speculate that providing a pink solution during exercise could induce an ergogenic benefit through a potential placebo effect. Aim: We examined whether ingesting a pink non-caloric, artificially sweetened solution can improve endurance strength exercise performance and psychological responses. Methods: Eighteen strength-trained individuals (34 ± 7 y; 1.74 ± 0.06 m; 79.86 ± 10.91 kg) completed three experimental trials in a randomized, single-blind, crossover counterbalanced fashion. In each trial, participants performed a 5-set strength endurance test at 70% of the one-repetition maximum in the bench press exercise, interspersed by 2 min. Before each set, participants ingested either a pink (PINK) or a transparent (TRANSP) non-caloric, artificially sweetened solution. A session without ingestion (CON) was also completed. Total number of repetitions and psychological responses such as motivation, emotional arousal, affect, and ratings of perceived exertion were obtained throughout the exercise protocol. Results: Total repetitions improved in PINK (60 ± 12 reps) compared to TRANSP ( p = 0.03; 56 ± 10 reps; ES = 0.22; ±3.8%) and CON ( p = 0.01; 56 ± 9 reps; ES = 0.33; ±6.6%), but no difference occurred between TRANSP and CON ( p = 0.84; ES = 0.12; ±2.4%). Comparable responses were observed in motivation, emotional arousal, affect, and ratings of perceived exertion in PINK, TRANSP, and CON trials (all, p > 0.05), despite the greater total physical work performed in PINK trial. Conclusion: Ingesting a pink non-caloric, artificially sweetened solution improved strength endurance performance with comparable psychological responses. These results have implications for future nutritional studies and performance assessments in real-world sports scenarios.
The firm-territory nexus in a fragmented economy: Scales of global value and wealth chain entanglement
Authors: Seabrooke Leonard , Stausholm Saila
Published: August 2023

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) take advantage of local differences in their global location of assets and activities. Scholarship in economic geography and international political economy associates value-producing entities organized in Global Value Chains (GVCs), and wealth-protecting entities in Global Wealth Chains (GWCs). At the aggregate level, these are often associated with different geographical manifestations, with GVCs centered around “production hubs” and GWCs around “offshore jurisdictions.” This indicates an asymmetrical geography between value and wealth with a low level of entanglement. This does not account, however, for the ways value and wealth are governed within MNEs. We investigate how the firm-territory nexus can be understood across scales and what this implies for the geographical overlap between GVCs and GWCs. While there is seemingly limited entanglement of GVC and GWC activities at the macro scale, at the meso scale there are overlaps and significant entanglement at the micro scale. This implies value and wealth are more geographically aligned than previously thought, and that initiatives aimed at regulating these chains needs to address practices within MNEs rather than targeting arbitrary geographies at the country level.
Dynamics of Employee Resource Groups: Leader Experiences Driving Mutual Benefits for Employees and Employers
Authors: Schlachter Steven , Rolf Skylar , Welbourne Theresa M.
Published: August 2023

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which bring together employees with shared identity or purpose, have been expanding around the globe. ERGs can be a recruiting and retention tool, providing member benefits of career growth, developing friends and providing expanded purpose at work. Given their popularity, they are of interest for researchers. Thus, we conducted a study focused on the ERG leader experience overall and the benefits to employees and employers offered by ERGs. We did this by conducting in-depth interviews with ten ERG leaders in three different organisations. Our work uncovered five ERG topics (or emergent themes) discussed by the interviewees: (1) ERG structure and leadership, (2) Multi-faceted purpose of ERGs, (3) Moving from ERGs to business resource groups (BRGs), (4) Leader time management and (5) Organisational support for ERGs. Additionally, we propose avenues for future research and suggest new work focused on the mutual benefits of ERGs for both individuals and organisations.
Pilot study on the efficacy and safety of berberine in people with metabolic syndrome and human immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Ruiz-Herrera Vida V , Navarro-Lara Shaúl A , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime F , Alvarez-Zavala Monserrat , Sánchez-Reyes Karina , Toscano-Piña Marcela , Méndez-Clemente Anibal S , Martínez-Ayala Pedro , Valle-Rodríguez Adriana , González-Hernández Luz A
Published: August 2023

Background

Antiretroviral therapy has increased the life expectancy of people living with HIV. However, this increase is not free of comorbidities, and metabolic syndrome is one of the most prevalent. Berberine is an alkaloid nutraceutical that has been shown to ameliorate metabolic disorders such as prediabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, it has not been tested in HIV infection. Therefore, we conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of berberine in improving metabolic syndrome.

Methods and results

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, adults living with HIV under virological suppression and metabolic syndrome received either berberine 500 mg TID or placebo for 20 weeks. The primary outcomes were a composite of weight reduction, insulin resistance decrease, and lipid profile improvement. A total of 43 participants were randomized (22 in the berberine group and 21 in the placebo group); 36 participants completed the follow-up and were analyzed. The berberine group showed a reduction in weight and body mass index, lower insulin resistance, and a reduction in TNF-alpha. The control group had higher total cholesterol, c-LDL, and IL-6 concentration.

Conclusion

In people living with HIV under virological suppression, berberine was safe and improves clinical and biochemical components of metabolic syndrome. However, further studies with more participants and longer intervention periods need to be explored.
Marine spatial planning identifies solutions for offshore wind farms at fishery and environment in Taiwan territorial waters
Authors: Liao Victor Te Cheng
Published: August 2023

Some fishery and environmental organizations criticize offshore wind farms affecting fishery livelihood and marine ecological biological environment. The problems offshore wind farm directly affect the fishing ground due to ocean currents, marine ecology, and the marine environment being changed. In addition, fishing operations may carelessly damage undersea offshore wind farm cables disrupting energy operations, many fishing activities are restricted within the offshore wind farm areas and marine ecological biological environment has been damaged by offshore wind farm. However, marine spatial planning could coordinate offshore wind farm stakeholders and conducts marine environmental impact assessments to identify suitable offshore wind farms. The purpose finds solutions for offshore wind farm in the fishery and marine ecological biological environment. The research questions are how to reduce offshore wind farm impact on fishery livelihood and marine ecological biological environment through marine spatial planning and marine environmental impact assessment in the Taiwan territorial waters. In online questionnaires of 404 respondents, 64.36% supported marine spatial planning site selection and marine environmental impact assessment could reduce offshore wind farm impact; 66.83% agreed offshore wind farm coexistence with multiple uses, increasing fishery and biodiversity; 58.17% agreed on public financial participation in offshore wind farm to increase social acceptance. The findings are consistent with previous research. However, interviewees challenged that multiple uses coexistence might affect some populations in the ecosystem and further investigations are required. Another, 50.50% agreed on updated regulations of marine spatial planning, marine environmental impact assessment, insurance, specific fund, feedback, and compensation of offshore wind farm that could improve fishery livelihood and marine ecological biological environment. Finally, based on the study results, the paper suggests that energy policy could open public financial participation in offshore wind farm increasing social acceptance, skill training influenced groups for employment, enhancing fishery livelihood, and protecting marine ecological biological environment.
Nonlinear vibrations of doubly curved micropanels reinforced by graphene nanoplates in length direction under non-uniform thermal loading
Authors: Sheikholeslami Mehdi , Adamian Armen , Safari Keivan Hosseini
Published: August 2023

Structures made of composites are quite common in different industries entailing automotive, marine, and aircraft industries, thanks to their favorable lightweight and strength. This study investigated the nonlinear vibrations of the various shapes of size-dependent graphene nanoplatelets reinforced micropanels under non-uniform thermal loading. In diverse ways in the axial direction, the material characteristics of graphene nanoplates (GPLs) alter. Taylor’s series expansion terms in curvature coordinates are used to illustrate the displacement field. Nonlinear von Karman theory and Hamiltonian principle work together to derive the nonlinear form of the pertinent equations and boundary conditions. Strain gradient theory with consideration for inherent length scale characteristics is investigated to account for size effects. By discretizing the spatial domain equations, deriving Duffing-type equations, and using Kronecker and Hadamard products, the governing equations and numerous nonlinear boundary edges are resolved. Using the techniques and answers outlined above, the results section is produced. There are four sections for this research. The findings are cross-checked with those from other studies that have been published in the first section. The effects of geometric and physical factors are shown in Parts 2, 3, and 4 on the nonlinear to linear frequency curve, the nonlinear frequency curve, and the sensitivity of the nonlinear frequency-to-size effect (SNFSE).
Aromanticism, asexuality, and relationship (non-)formation: How a-spec singles challenge romantic norms and reimagine family life
Authors: Tessler Hannah
Published: August 2023

In this study, I demonstrate how individuals on the aromantic and asexual spectrums navigate their sexual and intimate relationships. Through quantitative data analysis as well as interviews with aromantic and/or asexual singles, this study reveals the complexity of sexuality and intersections between sex, romance, and constructs of family. First, I highlight how alloromantic (non-aromantic) asexual singles are most likely to express interest in romantic relationships, followed by aromantic allosexual (non-asexual) singles, whereas aromantic asexual singles showed little interest in romantic relationships. Then, I focus on how aromantic and asexual spectrum interviewees (1) subvert expectations for normative sexual and romantic partnership, (2) untangle notions of sex, romance, and family, and (3) reimagine relationships and kinship to form their own intimacies.
Mechanical performance of e-glass reinforced polyester resins (isophthalic and orthophthalic) laminate composites used in marine applications
Authors: Ojha Somanath , Bisaria Himanshu , Mohanty Smita , Kanny Krishnan
Published: August 2023

This study examined the mechanical performance of two polyester resins (isophthalic and orthophthalic) used to create e-glass-based laminate composites for the marine industry. The current study performed a static analysis of laminate composites using compressive, impact and hardness tests. Single edge-notched beam (SENB) fracture tests under mode I (i.e. opening mode) were performed on e-glass reinforced orthophthalic polyester laminate composites (S1) and e-glass reinforced isophthalic polyester laminate composites (S2) at cryogenic temperature (−10°C), ambient temperature (25°C) and high temperature (100°C). The interaction between fibres and matrix material was studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to examine the substructure of fractured surface. A water absorption test was also performed on the fabricated samples. FTIR study revealed NH stretching, CH bend, CN stretching, C-O-C and CH-stretching. e-Glass isophthalic polyester composites had higher compressive strength, impact strength, hardness, fracture toughness and fracture energy than orthophthalic polyester laminate composites. The decrease in temperature increased the fracture properties. In both types of laminate composites, as the temperature increased, the fracture toughness and fracture energy decreased. The diffusion and permeability coefficients of isophthalic composites were greater than those of orthophthalic-based composites. The crushed fibre, fibre pull-out, riverline, matrix-fibre delamination and debonding are all evident in the fractured surface SEM micrograph.
Opposing forces of business model innovation in the renewable energy sector: Alternative patterns and strategies
Authors: Laur Inessa , Berntzen Lasse
Published: August 2023

An increased focus on renewable energy use and the liberalisation and digitalisation of the energy market has led to the adoption of innovative business models by energy businesses. This paper explores business model innovation in the electrical sector. Using multiple case studies of businesses in the electrical market in Scandinavia, this study shows why and how their business models have changed. Change forces and environmental strategies leading to certain patterns of business model innovation serve as the main study objectives. The pricing models, servitisation and appearance of new actors have mostly pronounced patterns of innovative business models of energy businesses. These patterns are predetermined by external pressures, such as industrial advancements and social trends, and are supported by businesses’ efficiency-oriented strategies. The study outcomes have implications on practice, showing the need for proactiveness and a consequent action plan for energy businesses to implement alternative environmental strategies. This study contributes by providing a novel insight into business model innovation by revealing mechanisms catalysing change from the multidimensional perspective – embracing the ‘cause’ and ‘effect’ of the change within energy businesses.
Virtual Treatment Zone From Cone Beam CT Commonly Alters Treatment Plan and Identifies Tumor at Risk for Under-Treatment in US or US Fusion-Guided Microwave Ablation of Liver Tumors
Authors: Arrichiello Antonio , Ierardi Anna Maria , Caruso Alessandro , Grillo Pasquale , Di Meglio Letizia , Biondetti Pierpaolo , Iavarone Massimo , Sangiovanni Angelo , Angileri Salvatore Alessio , Floridi Chiara , Wood Bradford , Carrafiello Gianpaolo
Published: August 2023

Tumor ablation is included in several major cancer therapy guidelines. One technical challenge of percutaneous ablation is targeting and verification of complete treatment, which is prone to operator variabilities and human imperfections and are directly related to successful outcomes, risk for residual unablated tumor and local progression. The use of “Prediction Ablation Volume Software” may help the operating Interventional Radiologist to better plan, deliver, and verify before the ablation, via virtual treatment zones fused to target tumor. Fused and superimposed images provide 3-dimensional information from different timepoints, just when that information is most useful. The aim of this study is to evaluate the technical success and efficacy of an ablation treatment flowchart provided by a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) “Prediction Ablation Volume Software.” This is a single-center retrospective study. From April 2021 to January 2022, 29 nonconsecutive evaluable patients with 32 lesions underwent liver ablation with Prediction Ablation Volume Software. Each patient was discussed in a multidisciplinary tumor board and underwent an enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging approximately 1 month before the procedure, as well as ∼1 month after. Technical success was defined as treatment of the tumor according to the protocol, covered completely by the Prediction Ablation Volume. Technical efficacy was defined as assessment of complete ablation of the target tumor at imaging follow up (∼1 month). Technical success, technical efficacy, and procedural factors were studied. Technical success was achieved in 30 of 32 liver lesions (94%), measuring 20 mm mean maximum diameter. The antenna was repositioned in 16 of 30 (53%) evaluable target lesions. Residual tumor was detected at 1 month imaging follow up in only 4 of 30 (13%) of the treated lesion. Technical efficacy was of 87% in this retrospective description of our process. The implementation of a CBCT Prediction Ablation Volume Software and flowchart for the treatment of liver malignancies altered the procedure, and demonstrated high technical success and efficacy. Such tools are potentially useful for procedural prediction and verification of ablation.
The effect of conservative oxygen therapy on mortality in adult critically ill patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Martin Daniel S , Mckenna Helen T , Rowan Kathryn M , Gould Doug W , Mouncey Paul R , Grocott Michael PW , Harrison David A
Published: August 2023

Background:

Oxygen is the commonest intervention provided to critically ill patients requiring mechanical ventilation. Despite this, it is unclear how much oxygen should be administered to patients in order to promote the best clinical outcomes and it has been suggested that a strategy of conservative oxygen therapy (COT) may be advantageous. We therefore sought to answer the question of whether COT versus usual or liberal oxygen therapy was beneficial to adult patients receiving mechanical ventilation on an intensive care unit (ICU) by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

Studies were included if they were randomised controlled trials comparing COT to liberal or usual oxygen therapy strategies in acutely ill adults (aged ⩾18 years) admitted to an ICU, and reported an outcome of interest. Studies were excluded if they were limited to a specific single disease diagnosis. The review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022308436). Risk of bias was assessed using a modified Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment tool. Effect estimates were pooled using a random effects model with the between study variance estimated using restricted maximum likelihood and standard errors calculated using the method of Hartung-Knapp/Sidik-Jonkman. Between study heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic. The certainty in the body of evidence was assessed using GRADE criteria.

Results:

Nine eligible studies with 5727 participants fulfilled all eligibility criteria. Trials varied in their definitions of COT and liberal or usual oxygen therapy. The pooled estimate of risk ratio for 90 day mortality for COT versus comparator was 0.99 (95% confidence interval 0.88–1.12, 95% prediction interval 0.82–1.21). There was low heterogeneity among studies ( I2 = 22.4%). The finding that mortality was similar for patients managed with COT or usual/liberal oxygen therapy was graded as moderate certainty.

Conclusions:

In critically ill adults admitted to an ICU, COT is neither beneficial nor harmful when compared to usual or liberal oxygen therapy. Trials to date have been inconsistent in defining both COT and liberal or usual oxygen therapy, which may have had an impact on the results of this meta-analysis. Future research should focus on unifying definitions and outcome measures.
Potential prey and conservation implications of the Algerian Nuthatch Sitta ledanti (Vielliard 1976)
Authors: Zemouri Mourad , Baba-Ahmed Mehdi , Meddouri Khaled , Hani Lydia , Beldjoudi Meriem , Tighlit Sabah , Khemis Asma , Bougaham Abdelazize Franck
Published: August 2023

The Algerian Nuthatch ( Sitta ledanti), which is mentioned on the Red List of threatened species, is one of the first protected birds in Algeria. The species’ populations are distributed with low numbers in Babors’ Kabyliain northeastern Algeria. The diet composition of the species has been studied on a large scale in five large forests. The diet analysis method is based on the identification of the different prey items found in the fecal sacs of the nestlings. We divided the 89 identified prey into 81 insects, 7 arachnids and 1 gastropod, giving 88 arthropods and 1 mollusc. According to both the Cluster Dendrogram and the Costello graph, the Algerian Nuthatch becomes a specialist species while searching for prey to feed its nestlings. This supply of specific prey for nestlings has been observed in both evergreen (Atlas cedar or Algerian fir) and deciduous (Algerian or African oaks) forests. Only the relative abundances (RA) of each prey consumed, prey number per fecal sac, and prey diversity by forest type showed differences. The low proportion of gastropods found in the fecal sacs of Algerian Nuthatch nestlings may explain the low nutritional value of this prey or may also be due to its low abundance. The species’ nestlings consumed a lot of European Earwig ( Forficula auricularia) and White spotted rose beetle ( Oxythyrea funesta) which could be due to their high energy intake and abundance in the area near the nests. Repeated fires and other anthropogenic activity constitute direct threats to the species’ habitat, and its specialised diet on certain prey weakens the survival of this species with endangered conservation status.
Andreas Pierratos Tribute: Personal Reflections
Authors: Hercz Gavril , Mendelssohn David , Nesrallah Gihad , Chan Christopher T.
Published: August 2023

Since the passing of Andreas Pierratos on November 15, 2022, we have had many occasions to reflect on what our relationship with a friend and colleague has meant. We have done this in solitude, with colleagues while at work and more recently, in a tribute organized at Humber River Hospital on March 26, 2023. We also had the opportunity to expand, in the February 2023 issue of the Nephrology News & Issues, on his many contributions to nephrology and to the betterment of patients’ lives. For this collaboration, we thought we would share our personal reflections of this unique individual, with the hope that this effort would provide a deeper appreciation of his unique humanity.
Fast Facts: Platforms From Personalization to Centralization
Authors: Iliadis Andrew , Ford Heather
Published: August 2023

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the economies of search and information retrieval concerning how the products of giant platform companies consolidate and represent facts directly in their search results. Concomitantly, media, communication, and information scholars have recently refocused on how media technology companies variably create, collect, connect, and commercialize data related to facts about the world and how such processes have implications for how we know the world. Such approaches often counter popular narratives that seek to frame the problems of platforms in terms of personalization and personalized content. While research on the personalization afforded by media is widespread, platforms also engage in the centralization of facts by merging web data representing factual claims and offering answers directly in search engines and virtual assistants’ results and responses (what we refer to as “fast facts”). These processes considerably affect how knowledge is constructed and shared in a networked society. This special issue collects empirical investigative research on the platformization, exploitation, and centralization of facts while offering a variety of perspectives from which to study these developments, including semantic and infrastructural techniques. This article provides an overview of this field and contextualizes recent media studies on search and information retrieval in broader debates around facts and truth claims.
Technology External Cause or Individual Internal Cause? Multiple Ways to Improve the Online Learning Effectiveness of Tourism and Hospitality Management Students
Authors: Zhang Shu-Ning , Jiang Guang-Xiu , Ruan Wen-Qi , Li Yong-Quan
Published: August 2023

Online learning platforms have become important learning tools, and online learning replaced face-to-face teaching as the primary learning method of students during COVID-19. However, there have been few systematic studies on learning effectiveness and its influential factors. This study was based on fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore the joint effects of multiple factors on online learning effectiveness for tourism and hospitality students from the dual perspective of the platform and individual. The results revealed five antecedent combinations that led to high-quality online learning, which were categorized into “platform-individual” internal and external promotion paths and “function-interaction” platform environment promotion paths. Moreover, there were substitution effects in the paths to high-quality online learning; specifically, perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU) were substitutable, and perceived playfulness (PP), learning attitude (LA), and self-efficacy (SE) could replace each other. Finally, self-efficacy was not a necessary condition for efficient online learning. Our findings highlight substitution relationships among the influencing factors of online learning effectiveness from a configuration perspective and further reveal the internal micromechanisms of achieving high-quality online learning.
Knowledge and Attitude of Healthcare Providers on Managing Pre-Eclampsia and Eclampsia During Antenatal Care in Mwanza Region-Tanzania
Authors: Pallangyo Anna Sangito , Seif Saada Ali
Published: August 2023

Background

Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are the second-leading causes of maternal death. Health care providers have a critical role in preventing and managing these conditions. Lack of knowledge among healthcare providers on managing pre-eclampsia and eclampsia has been reported in other parts of Tanzania, but more information is needed in other parts of the country so as to design appropriate targeted interventions. Hence, this study assessed the knowledge and attitude of healthcare providers on the management of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in the Mwanza region of Tanzania.

Method

A facility-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2022 among 157 health care providers in the Mwanza region. A simple random sampling method was used to select districts and dispensaries, while a census method was used to recruit health care providers. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. A descriptive statistics analysis was used to determine the distribution of background information of healthcare providers. Inferential statistics were used to determine the association between variables by using a chi-square test and logistic regression. A statistically significant variable in the final model was declared with a 95% confidence interval and a p-value of 0.05.

Results

The study results showed that only 40 (25%) of healthcare providers had adequate knowledge and 56.69% had positive attitude towards the management of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Knowledge was predicted by having more years of working experience (1–5 years) (AOR: 0.12, 95% CI 0.03–0.53, p-value 0.005) and working in a health center (AOR: 4.58, 95% CI 1.14–18.36, p-value 0.023). For attitude, no variable was significantly associated with it.

Conclusion

The study showed that the majority of the participants had inadequate knowledge of the management of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia, despite the positive attitude they possessed. This implies that HCP may be struggling to identify the signs and symptoms of the condition in pregnant women, and this could lead to delays in diagnosis despite believing that it is important to early diagnose the condition. To address this issue, it's crucial to invest in continuing medical education and training programs for healthcare providers to update their knowledge.
Psychosocial Perspective of Honour Killing
Authors: Nallathambi Selvaraj
Published: August 2023

The Indian constitution forbids untouchability and caste or religious discrimination. Caste, on the other hand, is extremely important among Indians. India’s social system is ruled by the Hindu caste system. Even though we live in the twenty-first century, we continue to use the caste system. Each caste had its own set of rituals, customs and values. As a result of increased education, employment, urban growth, modernization and technological innovation, inter-caste marriages have gradually gained widespread acceptance in India. According to the 2011 census, 5.8% of the population throughout India, inter-caste marriages account for one-quarter of all marriages. For many years, however, Indians might have a conservative attitude towards inter-caste marriages. ‘Upper castes’ have viciously maintained the generational purity of blood by imposing endogamy and denying upper caste women the agency to marry outside their own castes. People are culturally conformist, so when their daughters or sons marry outside their culture, religion or language, it can lead to honour-related violence or honour killing. A total of 145 honour killing incidents occurred in India between 2017 and 2019 (Government tells in Lok Sabha in 2021). Furthermore, the majority of honour killings are misidentified as suicides.
Impact of headache frequency and preventive medication failure on quality of life, functioning, and costs among individuals with migraine across several European countries: need for effective preventive treatment
Authors: Buse Dawn C. , Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Dupont-Benjamin Laure , Balkaran Bridget L. , Lee Lulu , Jauregui Adam , Gandhi Pranav , Parikh Mousam , Reuter Uwe
Published: August 2023

Background

Data are limited regarding the combined impact of headache frequency and failure of preventive medication (efficacy and/or tolerability) on the humanistic/economic burden of migraine.

Methods

A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of 2020 National Health and Wellness Survey (NHWS) data was conducted. An opt-in online survey identified adults in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and United Kingdom with self-reported physician-diagnosed migraine. Participants with ≥ 4 monthly headache days (MHDs) were stratified by prior preventive medication use/failure (preventive naive; 0–1 failure; ≥ 2 failures). Quality-of-life and economic outcomes were compared among groups using generalized linear modeling.

Results

Among individuals with ≥ 4 MHDs (n = 1106), the NHWS identified 298 (27%) with ≥ 2 failures, 308 (28%) with 0–1 failure, and 500 (45%) as preventive naive. Individuals with ≥ 2 failures versus preventive-naive individuals had significantly lower scores on the 12-Item Short Form Survey Physical Component Summary (42.2 vs 44.1; P < 0.005), numerically higher scores on the Mental Component Summary (39.5 vs 38.5; P = 0.145), significantly higher scores on the Migraine Disability Assessment (39.1 vs 34.0; P < 0.05), and significantly higher prevalence of depression symptoms (62% vs 47%; P < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (42% vs 31%; P < 0.01). The ≥ 2 failures group versus the preventive-naive group also had significantly more functional impairment as assessed by mean numbers of migraine-specific missed work days (7.8 vs 4.3) and household activities days (14.3 vs 10.6) in the past 6 months (P < 0.001) as well as the prevalence of absenteeism (19% vs 13%), overall work impairment (53% vs 42%), and activity impairment (53% vs 47%) (all P < 0.05). Emergency department visits (0.7 vs 0.5; P = 0.001) and hospitalizations (0.5 vs 0.3; P < 0.001) in the past 6 months were significantly higher in the ≥ 2 failures group versus the preventive-naive group, while indirect costs (€13,720 vs €11,282) and the proportion of individuals with non-adherence during the past 7 days (73% vs 64%) were numerically higher.

Conclusions

Increased burden, quality-of-life impairment, and functional impairment exist among individuals with migraine experiencing ≥ 4 MHDs and more treatment failures. While cause and directionality cannot be determined, these results suggest the need for effective preventive migraine treatments.

Graphical Abstract
Gender-specific effects of soybean consumption on cardiovascular events in elderly individuals from rural Northeast China – a prospective cohort study
Authors: Yu Shasha , Yang Hongmei , Wang Bo , Guo Xiaofan , Li GuangXiao , Sun Yingxian
Published: August 2023

Background

The impact of consuming soybean and its products on cardiovascular events (CVEs), cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the prospective association of soybean consumption with CVEs, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality among the elderly population in rural China.

Methods

The Northeast China Rural Cardiovascular Health Study included 2477 elderly individuals (mean age 67 ± 6 years, 49.97% men) in the initial phase of the study from 2012 to 2013, with a follow-up period between 2015 and 2017. Soybean consumption was categorized as follows: low-frequency consumption: rare consumption; moderate-frequency consumption: two to three times/week; high-frequency consumption: ≥ four times/week. Cox proportional hazard analysis assessed the potential relationship of soybean consumption with CVEs, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality.

Results

The prevalence of soybean and its product consumption was as follows: 38.3% for low-frequency consumption (43.8% for women; 32.8% for men), 49.7% for moderate-frequency consumption (45.8% for women; 53.7% for men), and 11.9% for high-frequency consumption (10.4% for women; 13.5% for men). After adjusting for possible confounders, Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed that the frequency of soybean consumption was an effective predictor of CVEs [Hazard ratio (HR)high(95% CI): 0.555 (0.348, 0.883)], stroke [HRmoderate(95% CI): 0.672 (0.494, 0.913); HRhigh(95% CI): 0.483 (0.276, 0.842)], and all-cause mortality [HRhigh(95% CI): 0.540 (0.310, 0.942)] in the overall older population. High-frequency consumption of soybean [HR (95% CI): 0.467 (0.225, 0.968)] and moderate-frequency consumption [HR (95% CI): 0.458 (0.270, 0.779)] were associated with stroke events in older men and women, respectively. In addition, high-frequency consumption of soybean [HR (95% CI): 0.437 (0.197, 0.968)] decreased the risk of CVEs in older women.

Conclusion

Soybean consumption is closely associated with CVEs and all-cause mortality in older individuals residing in rural areas, with a significant gender discrepancy in this relationship. These findings provide new insights into the impact of soybean consumption on cardiovascular well-being in the elderly rural population, thus enhancing our understanding of this field of interest.
Point-of-care testing in private pharmacy and drug retail settings: a narrative review
Authors: Chan Justine Tin Nok , Nguyen Van , Tran Thuy Ngan , Nguyen Nam Vinh , Do Nga Thi Thuy , van Doorn H. Rogier , Lewycka Sonia
Published: August 2023

Background

Point-of-care testing (POCT) using rapid diagnostic tests for infectious disease can potentially guide appropriate use of antimicrobials, reduce antimicrobial resistance, and economise use of healthcare resources. POCT implementation in private retail settings such as pharmacies and drug shops could lessen the burden on public healthcare. We performed a narrative review on studies of POCTs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and explored uptake, impact on treatment, and feasibility of implementation.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed for interventional studies on the implementation of POCT for infectious diseases performed by personnel in private retail settings. Data were extracted and analysed by two independent reviewers.

Results

Of the 848 studies retrieved, 23 were included in the review. Studies were on malaria (19/23), malaria and pneumonia (3/23) or respiratory tract infection (1/23). Nine randomised controlled studies, four controlled, non-randomised studies, five uncontrolled interventions, one interventional pre-post study, one cross-over interventional study and three retrospective analyses of RCTs were included. Study quality was poor. Overall, studies showed that POCT can be implemented successfully, leading to improvements in appropriate treatment as measured by outcomes like adherence to treatment guidelines. Despite some concerns by health workers, customers and shop providers were welcoming of POCT implementation in private retail settings. Main themes that arose from the review included the need for well-structured training with post-training certification covering guidelines for test-negative patients, integrated waste management, community sensitization and demand generation activities, financial remuneration and pricing schemes for providers, and formal linkage to healthcare and support.

Conclusion

Our review found evidence that POCT can be implemented successfully in private retail settings in LMICs, but comprehensive protocols are needed. High-quality randomised studies are needed to understand POCTs for infectious diseases other than malaria.
Tuberculosis screening practices and outcomes in an australian dialysis unit
Authors: Wallace Hannah , Nelson Craig , Crikis Sandra
Published: August 2023

Background

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends all dialysis patients undertake routine screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in high income countries such as Australia. However, we employ a targeted screening approach in our Australian dialysis unit in line with local and some international guidelines. We analysed our practices to assess the validity of our approach.

Methods

A retrospective review of new dialysis patients during the period 2012–2018 was undertaken. Patient records were reviewed for basic demographic data, comorbidities, LTBI screening using Quantiferon Gold (QFG), and outcomes, including episodes of active TB, to June 2020.

Results

472 patients were included. WHO high risk country of origin patients accounted for 22% (n = 103). 229 patients (48.5%) were screened using QFG. The single main indication for screening was transplantation waitlisting. 34 patients had a positive QFG result. Active tuberculosis developed in two patients during the observation period. Both occurred in the screened cohort, the cases having previously tested negative via QFG at 11 and 16 months, prior to the development of active tuberculosis. No patients in the unscreened cohort developed active tuberculosis during the observation period. WHO high risk country of origin was associated with positive QFG status, odds ratio 10.4 (95% CI 3.3–31.2).

Conclusion

The data failed to show a benefit from widening of the screening program within our dialysis unit. However, a much larger sample size will be required to confidently assess the impact of the current approach on patient outcomes. Analysis of current screening practices and outcomes across all Australian dialysis services is warranted to assess the risks and benefits of widening the screening practices to include all dialysis patients as recommended by the WHO.
Comparison of the effectiveness of lauromacrogol injection for ablation and microwave ablation in the treatment of predominantly cystic thyroid nodules: a multicentre study
Authors: Min Xin , Zhang Zheng , Chen Yanwei , Zhao Shuangshuang , Ge Jingwen , Zhao Huajiao , Cai Yun , Chen Hui , Shao Jun , Jing Yanfei , Chen Baoding
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To compare the therapeutic efficacy and safety of microwave ablation (MWA) and lauromacrogol injection for ablation (LIA) for benign predominantly cystic thyroid nodules.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective study, 85 patients with predominantly cystic thyroid nodules (PCTNs) who underwent microwave ablation (MWA) or lauromacrogol injection for ablation (LIA) between June 2019 and August 2022 at three hospitals were included in our research. Forty-six patients were treated with microwave ablation, and thirty-nine patients were treated with lauromacrogol injection for ablation. The baseline characteristics, nodal volume, volume reduction rate (VRR), and incidence of postoperative complications were compared between these two groups.

Results

After treatment, there were significant differences in the thyroid nodule volume and the volume reduction rate (VRR) at different follow-up times between the groups (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the nodal volume or the volume reduction rate (VRR) between the MWA group and the LIA group at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (p > 0.05). Of note, no serious intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred in the corresponding group.

Conclusion

MWA and LIA are very effective and safe strategies for the treatment of predominantly cystic thyroid nodules. However, LIA is more advantageous in that it is less expensive and has a shorter length of hospital stay than MWA.