bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative evaluation of mixed biomass burning and anthropogenic aerosols over the Indochina Peninsula using MERRA-2 reanalysis products validated by sky radiometer and MAX-DOAS observations
Authors: Ohno Takeru , Irie Hitoshi , Momoi Masahiro , da Silva Arlindo M.
Published: November 2022

In this study, we conducted the quantitative evaluation of aerosol optical properties in the Indochina Peninsula (ICP), which is significantly affected yearly by both biomass burning (BB) and anthropogenic aerosols, using Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2) aerosol products. To perform spatiotemporal analysis with validated aerosol data, the MERRA-2 aerosol optical depth (AOD) and absorption AOD (AAOD) data were evaluated based on sky radiometer observations at the SKYNET Phimai site (15.18° N, 102.56° E). Furthermore, multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy was conducted, providing additional data for the comparison of the aerosol extinction coefficient (AEC) vertical profile data. MERRA-2 AOD, AAOD, and AEC at altitudes below 1 km were underestimated in the dry season, with relative mean biases of 0.84, 0.54, and 0.48, respectively. These underestimations are attributed to insufficient BB emissions of light-absorbing aerosols near the surface. On the basis of these results, we investigated the factors that determined spatiotemporal variations in AOD over ICP from 2009 to 2020. We found that the seasonal variations in AOD were driven mainly by organic carbon (OC) and sulfate aerosols. OC AOD was dominant during the active BB period (from January to March), whereas sulfate AOD was high all year round, accounting for more than 25% of the total AOD. Sulfate AOD in the northeast ICP (NEIC) was approximately 74% of the total AOD in October, indicating the remarkable effect of sulfate aerosol transportation from southern China (SC). In the period of study, AOD decreased in NEIC and south ICP (SIC) by − 4.40% and − 3.00% year−1, respectively, corresponding to the decrease in sulfur dioxide concentrations in SC and NEIC. Thus, OC AOD was dominant during the active BB periods, whereas a significant amount of anthropogenic aerosols from SC contributed to the atmospheric environment over ICP throughout 2009–2020.
Heavy Resistance Training Versus Plyometric Training for Improving Running Economy and Running Time Trial Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Eihara Yuuri , Takao Kenji , Sugiyama Takashi , Maeo Sumiaki , Terada Masafumi , Kanehisa Hiroaki , Isaka Tadao
Published: November 2022

Background

As an adjunct to running training, heavy resistance and plyometric training have recently drawn attention as potential training modalities that improve running economy and running time trial performance. However, the comparative effectiveness is unknown. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine if there are different effects of heavy resistance training versus plyometric training as an adjunct to running training on running economy and running time trial performance in long-distance runners.

Methods

Electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus were searched. Twenty-two studies completely satisfied the selection criteria. Data on running economy and running time trial performance were extracted for the meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were performed with selected potential moderators.

Results

The pooled effect size for running economy in heavy resistance training was greater (g = − 0.32 [95% confidence intervals [CIs] − 0.55 to − 0.10]: effect size = small) than that in plyometric training (g = -0.13 [95% CIs − 0.47 to 0.21]: trivial). The effect on running time trial performance was also larger in heavy resistance training (g = − 0.24 [95% CIs − 1.04 to − 0.55]: small) than that in plyometric training (g = − 0.17 [95% CIs − 0.27 to − 0.06]: trivial). Heavy resistance training with nearly maximal loads (≥ 90% of 1 repetition maximum [1RM], g = − 0.31 [95% CIs − 0.61 to − 0.02]: small) provided greater effects than those with lower loads (< 90% 1RM, g = − 0.17 [95% CIs − 1.05 to 0.70]: trivial). Greater effects were evident when training was performed for a longer period in both heavy resistance (10–14 weeks, g = − 0.45 [95% CIs − 0.83 to − 0.08]: small vs. 6–8 weeks, g = − 0.21 [95% CIs − 0.56 to 0.15]: small) and plyometric training (8–10 weeks, g = 0.26 [95% CIs − 0.67 to 0.15]: small vs. 4–6 weeks, g = − 0.06 [95% CIs 0.67 to 0.55]: trivial).

Conclusions

Heavy resistance training, especially with nearly maximal loads, may be superior to plyometric training in improving running economy and running time trial performance. In addition, running economy appears to be improved better when training is performed for a longer period in both heavy resistance and plyometric training.
Experiences of caregivers of community-dwelling older persons with moderate to advanced dementia in adapting the Namaste Care program: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Yous Marie-Lee , Ploeg Jenny , Kaasalainen Sharon , McAiney Carrie
Published: November 2022

Background

Globally many older persons with dementia are living at home to maintain independence within the community. As older persons with dementia transition from early to moderate or advanced stages of dementia they require more support from family members and friends to complete their daily activities. Family and friend caregivers, however, often report a lack of preparation for their caregiving role. There are few psychosocial programs that can be delivered by caregivers of community-dwelling older persons with moderate to advanced dementia. Namaste Care is a psychosocial intervention, predominantly used in long-term care, to improve the quality of life of persons with advanced dementia. Namaste Care provides multisensory stimulation for persons with dementia through meaningful activities such as music, massage, aromatherapy, and nutrition. There have been limited attempts at adapting Namaste Care for use by caregivers in the community.There is a need to involve caregivers in adapting programs and understanding their experiences in research involvement so that strategies can be put in place for a positive experience. The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of caregivers who participated in workshop sessions to adapt Namaste Care for community-dwelling older persons with moderate to advanced dementia.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive design was used. Six caregivers residing in Ontario, Canada attended virtual workshop sessions (i.e., by phone or videoconference) that were guided by the Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) Patient Engagement Framework. Caregivers completed individual post-workshop interviews. Experiential thematic analysis was used to analyze interviews and post-interview researcher notes.

Results

Key findings were that caregivers had a positive experience in adapting Namaste Care by learning how to improve their caregiving skills and being supported to engage in research through multiple facilitators such as flexible scheduling and an inclusive and respectful environment. Having designated time for discussions between caregivers was perceived as important to forming partnerships within the group to support co-creation of knowledge.

Conclusion

Findings support the need to improve caregiver research engagement processes by ensuring that caregivers can benefit through learning opportunities and discussions and empowering caregivers to value their contributions in adapting interventions.
Efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin-A in writer’s cramp: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression
Authors: Patil Anant , Shaikh Summaiya Zareen , Karajgi Asmita , Ali Mohammed Usman
Published: November 2022

Background

Botulinum toxin-A (BoNT) reduce over-firing of dystonic muscles, spasmodic contractions by enhancing function. We conducted a systematic review and random-effects meta-regression to investigate the efficacy and safety of BoNT in writer’s cramp (WC). Published electronic articles from inception till January 2022 were screened from four databases (Medline, Science Direct, Scopus, ProQuest). Effect sizes in the form of standardized mean differences were calculated for estimation of efficacy.

Results

Nineteen studies [six randomized control trials (RCTs) and 13 observational studies] involved 587 (514 experimental; 73 Controls) participants with mean age of 43.46 ± 8.84 years with mean duration of WC of 8.31 ± 5.35 years. Injection did not result in significant improvement in writing speed [standard mean difference (95% CI) 0.06 (− 0.35, 0.46)]. There was no significant difference in writing speed as compared to controls [standard mean difference (95% CI) − 0.51 (− 2.55, 1.52)]. The meta-analysis of observational studies showed a significant difference in the mean WC rating score [standard mean difference (95% CI) 0.54 (0.20, 0.88)]. Pooled analysis (observational studies and RCTs) demonstrated a significant difference in the mean Writer’s cramp rating score (WCRS) after BoNT [standard mean difference (95% CI) 0.75 (0.06, 1.44)]. No major safety concerns were reported in the included studies.

Conclusions

According to the meta-analysis of observational studies, BoNT injections are effective in WC for improving WCRS without major safety concerns. However, according to the meta-analysis of RCTs, there was no significant effect in efficacy with BoNT.
Research-based findings on scope of liposome-based cosmeceuticals: an updated review
Authors: Shaw Tapan Kumar , Paul Paramita , Chatterjee Bappaditya
Published: November 2022

Background

Cosmeceuticals are cosmetic products with biologically active components that have drug-like benefits. Cosmeceuticals are currently rapidly growing segments encompassing the personal care industry and numerous topical cosmetics-based therapies for treating different skin conditions. The barrier nature of skin causes limitations to topical treatment. The effectiveness of this cosmeceutical product has been enhanced a few folds by using nanotechnological modifications.

Main body

PubMed electronic searches for the literature were performed using combinations of the following terms: “cosmeceutical,” “liposome-based cosmeceuticals,” “acne and liposome,” “photo-aging and liposome,” “hyperpigmentation and liposome,” “wrinkles and liposome,” “fungal infections and liposome,” and “hair damage and liposome” from the earliest publication date available to January 5, 2022. Among the various nanotechnological approaches, liposomes offer numerous advantages such as topical cosmeceutical products, starting from improved moisturization, biodegradability, biocompatibility, enhanced permeation and retention, improved bioavailability of the active ingredients, increased esthetic appeal of cosmeceutical products, slow and extended dermal release. This review outlines various liposome-based cosmeceutical products that has been investigated to treat skin disorders such as photoaging, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, hair damage and fungal infections.

Conclusion

Liposome-based cosmeceuticals provide a better opportunity to deliver therapeutic moiety for various skin conditions and offer potential promise for future clinical applications.

Graphical Abstract
Piston bowl shape and biodiesel fuel effects on combustion and emission of diesel engines
Authors: Abdelrazek Mohamed Khaled , Abdelaal Mohsen Mohamed , El-Nahas Ahmed Mustafa
Published: November 2022

This study aims to investigate the effects of piston bowl shape and biodiesel fuel on combustion and emissions of a direct injection (DI) diesel engine. Three configurations of piston bowl geometry are modeled: hemispherical, toroidal, and rectangular. Biodiesel fuel derived from soybean oil is being considered. An experimental work was conducted on a diesel engine with a hemispherical piston bowl, and a better validity was attained. The study showed that, diesel engine with toroidal piston bowl delivered the largest power than other shapes, where turbulent regions are formed inside the toroidal piston bowl with higher intensity, which resulted in better combustion characteristics and lower emission concentrations. It is observed from the combustion of biodiesel fuel that, the rapid combustion stage began earlier than conventional diesel fuel by about 5o CA, heat release rate (HRR) decreased by 18.88%, emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), and unburnt hydrocarbon (UHC) reduced but nitric oxide (NO) emission increased by about 17.78% at 55o CA, as compared to diesel fuel. During the injection process, the jet core of biodiesel fuel appeared thicker and longer than conventional diesel fuel. For optimization, preheating with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) of biodiesel fuel contributes to reduce the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and improve the atomization rate.
Multigene Panel Testing Yields High Rates of Clinically Actionable Variants Among Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Coughlin Sarah E. , Heald Brandie , Clark Dana Farengo , Nielsen Sarah M. , Hatchell Kathryn E. , Esplin Edward D. , Katona Bryson W.
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE

Whether germline multigene panel testing (MGPT) should be performed in all individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC) remains uncertain. Therefore, we aimed to determine the yield and potential clinical impact of MGPT across a large, diverse CRC cohort.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of adults with CRC who underwent MGPT of > 10 genes at a commercial laboratory between March 2015 and May 2021. All data were prospectively collected through a single commercial laboratory and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 34,244 individuals with a history of CRC underwent germline MPGT and were included in the analysis. This cohort was predominantly female (60.7%), White (70.6%), and age 50 years or older (68.9%), with 35.5% also reporting a noncolorectal malignancy. At least one pathogenic/likely pathogenic germline variant (PGV) was found in 4,864 (14.2%), with 3,111 (9.1%) having a PGV associated with increased CRC/polyposis risk and 1,048 (3.1%) having an otherwise clinically actionable PGV. Larger gene panels were not clearly associated with higher yield of clinically actionable PGVs. PGVs were more prevalent in individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent ( P < .001) and Hispanic ethnicity ( P < .001). Across all ages, panel sizes, and races/ethnicities, the rate of clinically actionable PGVs on MGPT was 7.9% or greater. A variant of uncertain significance was identified in 13,094 individuals (38.2%). Identification of a variant of uncertain significance associated with panel size ( P < .001) and was lower in individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent ( P < .001), but higher in Black, Asian, and Hispanic individuals ( P < .001).

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the largest study to date examining MGPT in CRC, demonstrating high rates of clinically actionable variants detected across all age groups, panel sizes, and racial/ethnic groups. This work supports consideration of broadening germline genetic testing criteria for individuals with CRC.
Reproductive factors in relation to incidence of lung and colorectal cancers in a Norwegian women cohort: the HUNT Study
Authors: Denos Marion , Sun Yi-Qian , Brumpton Ben Michael , Langhammer Arnulf , Chen Yue , Mai Xiao-Mei
Published: November 2022

Background

The roles of reproductive factors in the aetiology of lung and colorectal cancers, among the most common cancers in women, are unclear.

Methods

We followed up 33,314 cancer-free women who participated in the HUNT Study in Norway from 1995-1997 to 2018. A large panel of reproductive factors were self-reported at baseline. Incident lung and colorectal cancer cases were ascertained from the Cancer Registry of Norway. Cox regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) after adjustment for important confounders.

Results

During a median follow-up of 22.2 years, 467 women developed lung cancer including 169 lung adenocarcinoma, 660 developed colon cancer and 211 had rectal cancer. Early menarche (≤12 years) was associated with an increased incidence of lung adenocarcinoma (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.02–2.03). Women with one or no child had an increased colon cancer incidence (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.03–1.54). Hormone therapy appeared to be associated with a decreased incidence of rectal cancer (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.44–1.04). Results in the subgroup of post-menopausal women were similar or strengthened. Other reproductive factors were not related to the risk of lung, colon, and rectal cancers.

Conclusions

Certain reproductive factors might play a role in the aetiology of lung and colorectal cancers. Further investigations are warranted to study if they are causal associations.
Predictors of Mortality in COVID-19 patients: An observational study
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Arsalan , Kaleem Ullah Toori  , Raja Mobeen Ahmed
Published: November 2022

Objectives: To identify the factors that affect outcome in COVID-19 patients in the Pakistani population.

Methods: A total of 225 patients of COVID-19 RT-PCR proven were included during November, 2020 to June, 2021 in this cross-sectional study. They were stratified into different disease severity categories as per WHO guidelines. The characteristics of survivors and non survivors were recorded and then compared to draw conclusions.

Results: Mean age was 59 years. Majority of the patients were male (68%) and the overall mortality rate was 30.1%. The non survivors were more likely to be female, had a greater number of comorbidities, had a higher respiratory rate and lower oxygen saturations at presentation and had a greater frequency of invasive mechanical ventilation. Non survivors had higher values of TLC, CRP, D-dimers and lower values of Hemoglobin and Platelets. The non survivors had higher incidence of ARDS, Septic shock and Multiorgan involvement. A higher CURB-65 score was observed in non survivors as compared to those who survived. Multivariate analysis showed that female gender, presence of and higher number of comorbid conditions and a higher CURB-65 score was linked with mortality.

Conclusion: Results are compatible with international studies; increasing age, number of comorbid conditions and high inflammatory markers are associated with increased mortality. Our study had an exception that female gender had higher mortality as compared to men.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6059

How to cite this: Qureshi MA, Toori KU, Ahmed RM. Predictors of Mortality in COVID-19 patients; an observational study. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6059

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Vaginal Reconstruction in Patients with vaginal agenesis: Options and Outcome: A single-center experience
Authors: Abrar Saida , Rizvi Raheela , Muhammad Zia-Ul-Islam
Published: November 2022

Objectives: To assess the postoperative functional, anatomical outcome and complications of various surgical procedures of vaginoplasty performed for patients with vaginal agenesis at our institution.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 14 patients (age range 17-40 years), who underwent vaginoplasty at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan between January 2008 to December 2018. We aimed to assess the anatomical outcomes in terms of vaginal depth, axis and functional outcome as painless and satisfactory vaginal intercourse.

Results: The mean age and mean body mass index (BMI) of the cases were 26.8±8.1 years and 27.7143±4.6 respectively. All were phenotypically female, with only two cases of XY genotype. Two patients were married on presentation. On evaluation, four cases had Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, three had androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS), one case had congenital adrenal hyperplasia and six cases did not fit into any diagnosis. Associated renal anomalies were diagnosed in 14.3% of cases. The performed procedures were; Singaporean flap vaginoplasty (in four patients), Lee’s, modified McIndoe and pull-through vaginoplasty (in three each patients), and Davydov vaginoplasty (in one patient). One patient was complicated by intraoperative bladder injury (p<0.63) and two cases by vaginal stenosis (p<0.43). The mean operative time was 120 minutes and the mean estimated blood loss was 200mls. Postoperatively, the vaginal length varied from 6-10 cm with a normal vaginal axis and satisfactory sexual activity.

Conclusions: Vaginal agenesis is associated with several sexual disorders and despite the various surgical options available, the best procedure in terms of fewer complications and best surgical outcome is yet to be determined.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6356

How to cite this: Abrar S, Mohsin R, Zia-Ul-Islam. Vaginal Reconstruction in Patients with vaginal agenesis: Options and Outcome: A single-center experience. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6356

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Falls and correlations among community-dwelling older adults: A Cross-sectional study in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alamri Sultan , Ghamri Ranya , Alshehri Wejdan , Alhuthayli Reema , Alamoudi Nouf , Alnufaei Ragheed , Alkeridy Walid
Published: November 2022

Objectives: Falls are one of the major health issues faced by older adults, and they can result in physical harm, eventual loss of independence, and even death. Herein, we investigated the prevalence, alongside the main risk factors and resulting injuries, of falls among older adults.

Methods: We employed a descriptive cross-sectional approach. Data were collected between February and July 2021 from 403 older adults aged 60 years or above via an online self-reported questionnaire. Basic activities of daily living (BADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) were also recorded.

Results: The prevalence of falls among community-dwelling older adults was 47.4%. Among those who had experienced a fall, 36.2% incurred injuries, 25.3% had fractures, and 23.1% required walking aids. Age between 95-104 years, female sex, participants on anti-hypertensive medications, history of hip or knee replacement surgery, and presence of a caregiver, were significantly more likely to have had a previous history of falls (p < 0.05). Furthermore, having a previous history of stroke, osteoporosis, lower limb weakness, dizziness, using wheelchairs as walking aids, and living with the fear of stumbling or slipping were significantly associated with history of previous falls (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: The prevalence of falls is high among community-dwelling older adults in Jeddah. Physicians should identify older adults with higher falling risk and provide them with appropriate interventions. Public health strategies could significantly reduce falls and fall-related injuries in older adults.

List of Abbreviations: KSA: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, BADLs: Basic activities of daily living, IADLs: Instrumental activities of daily living, SPSS: Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, χ2: Chi-squared test.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6993

How to cite this: Alamri SH, Ghamri RA, Alshehri WH, Alhuthayli RS, Alamoudi NM, Alnufaei RD, et al. Falls and correlations among community-dwelling older adults: A Cross-sectional study in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6993

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Circadian rhythm and heart disease - what is the link? A review
Authors: Brzezińska Agnieszka , Skorupa Aleksandra , Nowińska Aleksandra , Nowaczek Justyna
Published: November 2022

Introduction and purpose: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still the leading cause of death worldwide and causes 49% of mortality in Europe. This makes CVD is the most important reason for premature mortality and Disability Adjusted Life Years (“DALYS”) in that continent. It is associated with variables such as blood pressure, heart rate, circulating catecholamines, markers of blood coagulation and vascular endothelial function which are dependent on different times of the day. The epidemiological data indicate that the biggest number of CVD incidents occur during the early morning hours. In this work we try to discuss the circadian rhythm and its impact on variables which, according to data, are most crucial on CV incident rate.

Brief description of the state of knowledge: The cardiovascular disease and mortality risk is associated with variables such as morning blood pressure, fluctuations in metabolism rate or even in immunological response. These variables are dependent on the circadian rhythm. This article covers the most crucial components affected by the daily fluctuations considering the heart according to the literature from the last five years. 

Conclusions: This review highlighted the link between circadian rhythm and cardiovascular disease with the purpose of focusing on the most important clinically aspects of that machinery from blood pressure to inflammation. Despite all of these exciting findings which could possibly have future implications in the field of cardiology, there is still a significant need to explore this complicated relationship between the biological clock and the heart.
What do we know about rosacea? - pathophysiology and treatment
Authors: Dalmata Weronika , Gąbka Ilona , Dąbrowski Jan , Szarpak Julita , Lipiec Marta , Mielniczek Katarzyna , Piwoński Michał
Published: November 2022

Introduction: rosacea affects approximately 10% of the world's population. It is a recurrent, inflammatory dermatosis that is difficult to deal with despite treatment.

Material and methods: literature review from PubMed databases from 2017-2022.

Conclusions: It is very difficult to find the cause of acne lesions. What is certain is that various factors overlap: genetic, environmental, immunological disorders, intestinal abnormalities, dietary factors. New treatments are constantly being sought. The overall health of the organism is very important in maintaining the proper function of every organ, but also of the skin - as a barrier against rosacea.
Disorders in the temporomandibular joints in pediatric patients - frequency of physiotherapy visits
Authors: Kasperkowicz Joanna , Malak Roksana , Matthews-Brzozowska Teresa , Samborski Włodzimierz , Mojs Ewa
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Temporomandibular disorders can be a challenge for both clinicians and patients. It is unclear what factors are associated with prolonged conservative care and patient dissatisfaction with treatment outcomes.Material and research method: A literature review was carried out in terms of methods of physiotherapeutic treatment following disorders of temporomandibular joints in pediatric patients. This work is for reference only. The PubMed and Google Schoolar databases were analyzed. The keywords used in the search were: "physiotherapy, temporomandibular joints and children", "manual therapy, temporomandibular joints and children". The authors focused on reports published in Polish and English from the last 10 years.Results: There is a need to combine standard therapy with physiotherapy in order to accelerate the treatment process.Conclusions: Physiotherapy is highly effective and non-invasive in the treatment of stomatognathic system disorders. A physiotherapist provides a number of therapeutic treatments that improve disorders in the temporomandibular joints.
Successful implementation of round-the-clock care in a virtual ward during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wells Emily , Taylor Jessie Lever , Wilkes Matt , Prosser-Snelling Ed
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented demand on NHS infrastructure. Virtual wards (VW) were created in response, using technology to monitor patients remotely. Their implementation required new systems of staffing, escalation, risk management and information governance. The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals Foundation Trust offered an example of a highly successful VW. It cared for 852 patients in its first year of operation, providing 24/7 nursing cover, supported by pharmacists and junior doctors, daily consultant-led ward rounds and virtual visits. The remote care platform collected continuous vital sign observations and generated custom alarms. The care team triaged, then escalated to nurse-specialists or consultants as required. Patients reported increased confidence and relief at earlier discharge. Staff highlighted the benefits of working from home, even if isolating or shielding. Challenges included developing awareness of the new service, overcoming concerns around increased workload and transitioning from emergency to long-term funding. The ward subsequently expanded from COVID-19 to nine other use cases.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 England and Wales: implications for nurses
Authors: Bekaert Sarah , Seemungal Florence , Nott Emma
Published: November 2022

As the COVID-19 pandemic enveloped the globe there was a parallel increase in the incidence of domestic abuse (DA). This has been ascribed to the restrictions in movement and growing tensions during lockdown periods. The Domestic Abuse Act covering England and Wales was about to be passed prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, but progress halted as attention focused on managing infection control and treatment nationally. The unfolding DA ‘shadow pandemic’ led to pressure groups lobbying for specific changes to the Act which, in its revised form, became law in April 2021. This article sets out the changes in definition, statutory response and prevention of DA and relates these to nursing practice. Health education and promotion theory is considered and linked to nursing practice with those who are both victims/survivors and perpetrators of DA.
Frugal innovation in wound care: a critical discussion of what we can learn from low-resource settings
Authors: Stephens Melanie , Wynn Matthew , Pradeep Sheba , Bowshall Janine
Published: November 2022

Frugal innovation is a common philosophy in low-income settings due to limited access to resources. However, with both the increasing prevalence and clinical acuity of patients with wounds in the UK, it is essential that alongside innovation such as harnessing cutting-edge new technologies, frugal innovation is also pursued. This may improve both economic efficiency and patient outcomes. Frugal innovations were adopted throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and included opportunistic solutions such as video-conferencing services to run clinics. However, there are many more opportunities for frugal innovation in wound care, including the use of smartphone technology, which is already accessible to 99.5% of UK clinicians caring for wounds, or the simplification of wound-assessment processes using pulse oximeters as an alternative to dopplers, as in the Lanarkshire Oximetry Index. This article explores what frugal innovation is and how it could improve UK wound services. The authors invite clinicians working in wound care to consider their access to existing resources that may not be considered useful for wound-care processes and explore how these could be used to improve clinical outcomes.
Considerations in wound care of patients living with dementia
Authors: Gunanayagam Prashanth , Iliopoulos Jim , Ahmad Mehtab
Published: November 2022

The prevalence of wounds and comorbidities such as dementia increases with age. Given projected rises in population ageing and growth, the likelihood of encountering an overlap in these conditions in clinical practice has increased. Clinicians provide wound care for patients in a variety of settings, drawing on different evidence-based clinical guidelines. Most research into wound care has excluded patients with dementia. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide safe strategies and methods of implementation in those patients living with dementia.
Kindred2 School Readiness Survey
Authors: Newman Ella Lloyd
Published: November 2022

Do you have something to share, reflect on or provoke thinking around? Write to the editor: angelica.celinska@markallengroup.com
Ofsted, curriculum and inspector ‘aide memoire’ materials
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: November 2022

Copies of Ofsted ‘aide-memoire’ materials for inspectors undertaking curriculum deep dives have been leaked on social media, leading to discussion about the contents. There have been calls from head teacher unions for Ofsted to make the materials available to all schools, to avoid unfair advantage for those who have accessed them. Sue Cowley assesses the impact on early years, including what the materials tell us about Ofsted's views of curriculum in the EYFS.
What is an ABI?
Authors: Morley Emily , Bennett Emily , Costello Gemma
Published: November 2022

The authors of this article, psychologists and representatives of N-ABLES, introduce ABI and the symptoms, with examples of what this may look like in children, and they discuss the need for change around the lack of awareness of this injury.
Being a collaborative leader
Authors: Derungs Nadya
Published: November 2022

The third piece in the ‘leadership journey’ series follows Nadya's use of a STEAM approach to engage children and parents, and promote professional development.
Are you here now?
Authors: Brown Jude
Published: November 2022

Jude Brown shares with us how being present with children supports wellbeing for all. An insight into a personal journey, as well as current doctoral research helps us understand the act of being present and its significance.
Gender equity in the classroom
Authors: Martin Maryanne
Published: November 2022

Gender equity in the classroom is important for teachers to think about in order to ensure they are creating safe environments that allow their students to truly feel and explore their gender. It also encourages teachers to treat all students in a fair manner, regardless of gender. This is the fourth, and final, article in a series that explores children's experiences of gender in early childhood.
Professional Book Reviews
Authors: Marycz Adam
Published: November 2022

This month with EYE's focus being on practitioner wellbeing, we have a professional book review from Adam Marycz around mental health for early years educators, written by Kate Moxley. The picture books include stories to spark reflection and discussion around our differences, emotions and looking deeper into sustainability.
Picture Book Reviews
Authors: Celinska Angelica
Published: November 2022

This month with EYE's focus being on practitioner wellbeing, we have a professional book review from Adam Marycz around mental health for early years educators, written by Kate Moxley. The picture books include stories to spark reflection and discussion around our differences, emotions and looking deeper into sustainability.
Early years children – seen and not heard?
Authors: Davis-Yates Beccie
Published: November 2022

To date I would argue that many in positions of power hide behind their inclusion of ‘children’ as a justification for facilitating child voice. More recent conceptualisation of the child as a social agent in their world still falls short of accessing and representing views of children under five years of age (Hogan, 2005; Waller, 2006; Birbeck and Drummond, 2007).
Managing a social media storm
Authors: Murray Sarah
Published: November 2022

Sarah Murray has worked within early years for over 15 years and has witnessed the growth of social media in the sector and its affects, good and bad. Here, she shares her advice to help settings plan for a social media storm
Children's representations of themselves
Authors: Marycz Adam
Published: November 2022

This month's case study explores two different experiences provided to children of varied ages within the same setting. These experiences aimed to encourage all children to reflect on how they see themselves when they look in a mirror and represent this through mark making.
Integration of the Curiosity Approach
Authors: Gater Melody
Published: November 2022

A reflection on my own research of the curiosity approach in practice, with considerations of the implications faced by settings in making the shift in pedagogy with links to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
Healthy snack ideas for parents
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: November 2022

Young children burn 50 per cent more energy than adults which is why they need a snack between meals (Gibbons 2021). Healthy snacks are an excellent way to boost children's intake of essential nutrients. However, it is not easy to come up with snack ideas, so here are some suggestions from Claire Hewson you can share with parents.
Well-being and the Experience of Cyber Intimidation, Cyber Victimization and Pathological Internet Use
Authors: Mayungbo Olusegun , Akingbade Retta , Ogunsanya Oluwatomisin
Published: November 2022

Challenges relating to misuse and abuse of the internet and other mobile devices have become sources of concern among the youth population the world-over. However, research on cyber related issues has been focused mainly on adolescents in Nigeria. This study investigates the influence of cyber bullying, cyber victimization and pathological internet use on psychological well-being among adults. Using a cross sectional research design and a multi-stage sampling technique, 280 university students were selected. A questionnaire on socio-demographic profile cyber intimidation and internet addiction was administered to the participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test analysis at 0.05 level of significance. Three hypotheses were tested. The results revealed that participants who engage less in cyber bullying were not significantly different in their levels of psychological well-being when compared to their counterparts who engage more in cyber-bullying. Pathological Internet use did not significantly influence the levels of psychological well-being of cyber space addicts. The association between cyber related variables and psychological well-being is crucial for better understanding of their actual effects on human behaviour and for the purpose of designing intervention programmes.
Attack Mitigation and Security for Vehicle Platoon
Authors: Ndambuki Daniel Kyalo , Alhitmi Hitmi Khalifa
Published: November 2022

This research entails an investigation into enhanced attack detection techniques as a security feature in vehicular platooning. The paper evaluates critical challenges in the security of Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANETs) with a focus on vulnerabilities in vehicle platooning. We evaluate the possibilities of securing a platoon through enhanced attack detection following an inside attack while considering current communication-based approaches to vehicular platoon security that have been effective at isolating infected platoon members. This study proposes the use of color-shift keying (CSK) as a security tool for enhanced detection of an apparent platoon attack. We simulate various attack scenarios involving a vehicular platoon communicating via a VLC network and assess the degree of exposure of such networks to three types of attacks – Sybil attacks, delay attacks, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. We recommend the use of a light-to-frequency (LTF) converter comprising of a receiver to collect and decode transmitted symbols with regard to the frequency of transmission. Once there is a drop in the intensity of the light transmitted in the platoon, CSK is implemented to alter the intensity of the red, green, and blue (RGB) spectrum coupled with radiofrequency to ensure the security of the communication. CSK will use coded symbols to transmit the control information from the leader using a microcontroller.
Analysis of Video Forensics System for Detection of Gun, Mask and Anomaly Using Soft Computing Techniques
Authors: Nanda Sunpreet Kaur , Ghai Deepika , Ingole Prashant
Published: November 2022

The video forensics world is a developing network of experts associated with the computerized video forensics industry. With quickly developing innovation, the video turned out to be the most significant weapon in the battle against individuals who violate the law by catching them in the act. Proof caught on video is viewed as more dependable, more exact, and more persuading than observer declaration alone. But, proof can be effortlessly tempered by utilizing programming. Video forensics examination, tells us about the accuracy of the input video. It has become a challenge for law enforcement agencies to deal with the increasing violence rate which involves the use of masks and weapons. The identification of a person becomes difficult with the use of face masks. The proposed method uses an efficient technique that is YOLO to detect guns, masks and suspicious persons from a video by extracting frames and features. It further compares the obtained frame with the available images in the dataset and generates output with bounding boxes detecting guns, masks and suspicious persons. This paper also examined the domain of video forensics and its outcomes. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms the existing techniques tested on different datasets. The precision for YOLO design for guns and masks is 100% and 75% respectively. The precision for customized CNN engineering for guns and face masks is 61.54% and 61.5% respectively. Execution measurements for both models have shown that the YOLO design outperformed the customized CNN with its presentation.
Two-Dimensional Projection Based Wireless Intrusion Classification Using Lightweight EfficientNet
Authors: Tekleselassie Hailyie
Published: November 2022

Internet of Things (IoT) networks leverage wireless communication protocol, which adversaries can exploit. Impersonation attacks, injection attacks, and flooding are several examples of different attacks existing in Wi-Fi networks. Intrusion Detection System (IDS) became one solution to distinguish those attacks from benign traffic. Deep learning techniques have been intensively utilized to classify the attacks. However, the main issue of utilizing deep learning models is projecting the data, notably tabular data, into image-based data. This study proposes a novel projection from wireless network attacks data into grid-like data for feeding one of the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models, EfficientNet. We define the particular sequence of placing the attribute values in a matrix that would be captured as an image. By combining the most important subset of attributes and EfficientNet, we aim for an accurate and lightweight IDS module deployed in IoT networks. We examine the proposed model using the Wi-Fi attacks dataset, called AWID dataset. We achieve the best performance by a 99.91% F1 score and 0.11% false positive rate. In addition, our proposed model achieved comparable results with other statistical machine learning models, which shows that our proposed model successfully exploited the spatial information of tabular data to maintain detection accuracy. We also successfully maintain the false positive rate of about 0.11%. We also compared the proposed model with other machine learning models, and it is shown that our proposed model achieved comparable results with the other three models. We believe the spatial information must be considered by projecting the tabular data into grid-like data.
AI-enhanced Defense Against Ransomware Within the Organization’s Architecture
Authors: Chaithanya B. N. , Brahmananda S. H.
Published: November 2022

Ransomware is a type of revenue-generating tactic that cybercriminals utilize to improve their income. Businesses have spent billions of dollars recovering control of their resources, which may include confidential data, operational applications and models, financial transactions, and other information, as a result of malicious software. Ransomware can infiltrate a resource or device and restrict the owner from accessing or utilizing it. There are various obstacles that a business must overcome in order to avoid ransomware attacks. Traditional ransomware detection systems employ a static detection method in which a finite dataset is provided into the system and a logical check is performed to prevent ransomware attacks against the system. This was effective in the early stages of the internet, but the scenario of recent times is far more advanced, and as more and more cyber world contrivances have been analyzed, multiple gaps have been identified, to the benefit of ransomware attackers, who use these gaps to generate astronomically large sums of money. As a result, the suggested methodology aims to efficiently detect diverse patterns associated with various file formats by starting with their sources, data collecting, probabilistic identification of target devices, and deep learning classifier with intelligent detection. An organization can use the recommended approach to safeguard its data and prepare for future ransomware attacks by using it as a roadmap to lead them through their security efforts.
Research-policy engagement activities and research impact: nursing and health science researcher perspectives
Authors: Windle Alice , Arciuli Joanne
Published: November 2022

Background:

Strategies to help researchers use the research evidence they (co)produce to inform policy should be tailored to the context. Yet there is little guidance on research-policy engagement activities in nursing and health sciences disciplines.

Aims and objectives:

We explored the experiences and perspectives of nursing and health sciences researchers at different career stages, regarding research-policy engagement activities and their impacts on policy. We also explored researchers’ understanding of terminology and theory regarding research-policy engagement.

Methods:

We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with 17 researchers, at various career stages, and conducted content and thematic analysis of the data.

Findings:

‘Disseminating and communicating research’, and ‘building professional partnerships’ were the most common types of activity, with senior researchers favouring the latter. Early and mid-career researchers favoured the former, citing the need to build credibility and track record before engaging with policy actors. We identified individual and contextual factors that influence policy impact and researchers’ capacity to engage in such activities. Researchers’ conceptions and understanding regarding evidence-informed policymaking theory and process varied. Terminology also varied, with ‘knowledge translation’ the most common term.

Discussion and conclusions:

Despite evidence indicating the limited effectiveness of dissemination activities on policy, researchers pursue such efforts, to enable the formation of relationships with influential policy actors and policy impact in the longer term, and because of academia’s drive for research outputs. Researchers would benefit from supportive organisational contexts and greater knowledge of research-policy engagement theory, evidence and practice, through tailored workshops addressing relational and political considerations, as well as structured mentoring.