bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and qualitative evaluation of cassava starch-chitosan edible food wrap enriched with culinary leaf powders for eco-friendly food packaging applications
Authors: Prithiviraj Mohandas , Sasidharan Abhilash , Krishna Bindu Murali , Sabu Sarsan , Sunooj Kappat Valiyapeediyekkal , Anoop Kiliyanamkandy , George Johnsy
Published: June 2023

Cassava starch-based edible food wraps were prepared by incorporating leaf powder from Indian curry leaf and Malabar bay leaf, reinforced with different (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8) wt.% of chitosan. Eleven combinations of films were prepared and their sensory acceptability, physical properties, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) spectrum, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image, were evaluated. The thickness of the films ranged from 0.198  ±  0.12 to 0.372  ±  0.27 mm. Tensile strength was reported to be the highest (40.71  ±  1.21 MPa) in the curry leaf powder incorporated sample. Maximum elongation at break was reported by bay leaf powder incorporated (5.8  ±  1.59%) sample. The Young's modulus values were observed to be increasing along with the concentration of chitosan. Maximum seal strength values were reported by curry leaf powder incorporated film with 0.8% chitosan (2.93  ±  0.22 N/mm). The leaf powder incorporated samples reported a higher flavonoid content compared to the control. The color analysis (L*, a*, b*) of the films was identical to the natural leaf color. The SEM images indicated a rough texture for the leaf powder incorporated films. The FTIR evaluation confirmed the presence of the respective functional groups. The statistical evaluation done by statistical package for social sciences software showed that all the data were significantly different ( P ≤ 0.05.). The study demonstrated the potential of incorporation of leaf powder and chitosan to enhance the properties of starch-based edible packaging.
Cross-cultural validation of the Short-Form Vascular Access Questionnaire
Authors: Barros João Pedro , Fonseca João A. , Pinto Rui , Pratas Jorge , Cruz-Correia Ricardo
Published: June 2023

Background:

Vascular access (VA) is a central condition for hemodialysis (HD). Screening patients’ views regarding their VA is a significant end point for improving the quality of care. The Short-form Vascular Access Questionnaire (SF-VAQ) is a specific questionnaire to assess patients’ satisfaction levels regarding their VA.

Purpose:

This study aims to develop the Portuguese version of the SF-VAQ and assess its psychometric properties.

Methods:

A forward and back translation was used. A multicentric study was conducted with 156 patients undergoing hemodialysis to psychometric testing. Reliability (internal consistency and test-retest) was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient. A construct validity test was conducted using factor analysis. The convergent validity was calculated using the correlation coefficient.

Results:

An obtained Cronbach’s alpha of 0.77 indicates good internal consistency. The test-retest reliability was established using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of 0.771. The four sub-scales proposed by the instrument’s designer were confirmed, which together accounted for 53% of the variance. The correlation with the Visual Analogue Scale was r = 0.895 ( p < 0.001), confirming the convergent validity.

Conclusion:

The Portuguese version of the SF-VAQ is a valid and reliable instrument with good psychometric properties to be implemented to promote an evaluation of VA satisfaction in HD patients and improve patient care.
Perforated intravenous catheter design is acceptable for the administration of contrast-enhanced computed tomography administration in cancer patients: Results of a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Gavin Nicole C , Wignall Elizabeth , Marsh Nicole , Marquart Louise , Dobeli Karen L , O’Brien Catherine , Verderosa Anthony D , Totsika Makrina , Keogh Samantha
Published: June 2023

Background:

Optimising first time success of peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion and reducing intravenous (IV) complications in cancer patients undergoing contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) is vital to ensure vascular access preservation and diagnostic accuracy. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating a novel perforated PIVC compared to a standard PIVC.

Methods:

A single centre, parallel-group, pilot RCT was conducted between March and May 2020. Adult participants diagnosed with cancer were randomised to a non-perforated PIVC (standard care) or a PIVC with a novel perforated design (intervention) for the administration of IV contrast. There were two primary outcomes: (1) feasibility of an adequately powered RCT with pre-established criteria; and (2) all-cause PIVC failure. Secondary outcomes included: first insertion success, modes of PIVC failure, dwell time, contrast injection parameters (volume and injection rate), contrast enhancement, radiographer satisfaction and adverse events.

Results:

Feasibility outcomes were met, except for eligibility (⩾90%) and recruitment (⩾90%). In total, 166 participants were screened, 128 (77%) were eligible and of these 101/128 (79%) were randomised; 50 to standard care and 51 to intervention. First time insertion rate was 94% (47/50) in standard care and 90% (46/50) in intervention. The median dwell time was 37 minutes (interquartile range (IQR): 25–55) in standard care and 35 minutes (IQR: 25–60) in the intervention group. There was one PIVC failure, a contrast media extravasation, in the intervention group (1/51; 2%). The desired contrast injection rate was not achieved in 4/101 (4%) of participants; two from each group. Radiographers were satisfied with the contrast flow rate.

Conclusions:

This pilot RCT suggests perforated PIVCs provide expected flow rate, with no evidence of differences in contrast enhancement to non-perforated PIVCs. The feasibility of conducting a larger powered RCT was demonstrated.
Comparative Molecular Analysis and Antigenicity Prediction of an Outer Membrane Protein (ompC) of Non-typhoidal Salmonella Serovars Isolated from Different Food Animals in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Morufat , Ajayi Abraham , Essiet Utibeima Udo , Oduyebo Oyin , Adeleye Adeyemi Isaac , Smith Stella Ifeanyi
Published: June 2023

Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infections occur globally with high morbidity and mortality. The public health challenge caused is exacerbated by increasing rate of antibiotic resistance and absence of NTS vaccine. In this study, we characterized the outer membrane protein C ( OmpC) serovars isolated from different food animals and predicted antigenicity. ompC of 27 NTS serovars were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced. Sequence data were analysed and B-cell epitope prediction was done by BepiPred tool. T-cell epitope prediction was done by determining peptide-binding affinities of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) classes I and II using NetMHC pan 2.8 and NetMHC-II pan 3.2, respectively. ompC sequence analysis revealed conserved region among ompCs of Salmonella Serovars. A total of 66.7% of ompCs were stable with instability index value < 40 and molecular weight that ranged from 27 745.47 to 32 714.32 kDa. All ompCs were thermostable and hydrophilic with the exception of S. Pomona (14p) isolate that had ompC with GRAVY value of 0.028 making it hydrophobic. Linear B-cell epitope prediction revealed ability of ompC to elicit humoral immunity. Multiple B-cell epitopes that were exposed and buried were observed on several positions on the ompC sequences. T-cell epitope prediction revealed epitopes with strong binding affinity to MHC–I and -II. Strong binding to human leukocyte antigen (HLA-A) ligands, including HLA-A03:1, HLA-A24:02 and HLA-A26:01 in the case of MHC-I were observed. While binding affinity to H-2 IAs, H-2 IAq and H-2 IAu (H-2 mouse molecules) were strongest in the case of MHC-II. ompCs of NTS serovars isolated from different food animal sources indicated ability to elicit humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Hence, ompCs of NTS serovars are potential candidate for production of NTS vaccines.
The New Nones: An Empirical Study of Dual Religious and Political Non-affiliation
Authors: McCaffree Kevin , Saide Anondah , Shermer Michael
Published: June 2023

While political scientists have investigated political non-affiliation and religious scholars have investigated religious non-affiliation, no work has yet examined the correlates of those identifying as both religiously and politically non-affiliated. Across two separate studies, we investigate the personality, social network, and cultural engagement correlates of political and religious non-affiliates. Some statistically significant effects found in Study 1 fail to replicate in Study 2, though replicated findings provide interesting avenues for future work. Notably, compared to those who report being both politically and religiously affiliated, we find that dual non-affiliates are more socially liberal, more fiscally conservative, far less likely to vote, and less religious across several attitudinal and behavioral measures. Crucially, we find no consistent evidence that dual non-affiliates suffer from social isolation or a lack of social support.
A Convergence of Opportunities: Understanding the High Elite University Progression of Disadvantaged Youth in an East London Locality
Authors: Davies Joanne
Published: June 2023

There is growing evidence that London’s disadvantaged youth have a better chance at progressing to elite universities than their counterparts outside the capital. Drawing on case study research in a disadvantaged East London locality, this article suggests that a convergence of structural factors that favour elite university progression may help explain this high progression. These factors include local schools’ valorisation of elite universities and their associated prioritisation of resources and strong framing of university choices to privilege Russell Group progression. Students’ apparent advantageous access to the widening participation provision of elite universities and to internship and networking opportunities arising from London’s corporate philanthropy also appear to play important roles. The article advocates for greater strategic planning by the regulator and further partnerships across all sectors of the economy to enable a fairer distribution of widening participation opportunities nationwide. It concludes with a call to reflect on the wisdom of privileging elite university progression at all costs and asks whether we should really be championing such a narrow vision of social mobility in the first place.
European news media in the decade of digitalisation: Persisting democratic performance with uneven developments
Authors: Tomaz Tales
Published: June 2023

This article discusses how the performance of leading European news media evolved between 2010 and 2020 regarding normative expectations of liberal democracies, focusing on the role of digital journalism. The rise of platforms, news media crisis and consolidation of digital journalism in the 2010 decade challenge established discourses on the normative roles of news media. It is unclear to what extent media performance may have changed, especially outside the United States. This article draws on 2010 and 2020 data from the Media for Democracy Monitor (MDM) to compare the performance of news media in Austria, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom. It argues that leading news media in these countries have had an overall similar contribution to democratic roles as before the 2010 decade. However, there are uneven developments, as digital journalism has strengthened the watchdog dimension while failing to attract younger audiences for the news industry. Additionally, countries with stronger public media ownership performed fairly better, indicating that technology alone is not the main factor to fulfil democratic expectations.
China’s Instagram war on COVID-19: picturing healthcare workers and governance in Xinhua’s photographs
Authors: Garud-Patkar Nisha , El Damanhoury Kareem
Published: June 2023

China came under intense international scrutiny after it was accused of suppressing information, silencing its doctors, and destroying laboratory evidence that led to the spread of COVID-19. To understand how China attempted to rebuild its reputation, this article examines the visual frames and semiotic devices used to depict Chinese frontline workers and the country’s health governance across 289 photographs posted by China’s state-owned Xinhua News Agency on Instagram. Healthcare workers appeared as soldiers working tirelessly on the COVID-19 battlefield, while also revealing their human emotions and vulnerabilities at times. Further, the efforts of the frontline workers were perpetually showcased as guided by the Chinese leaders who were omnipresent either physically or through Communist symbols. Xinhua’s photographs thus presented the Chinese leadership as the architect in establishing a competent health sector that overcame the pandemic – a paradigm for the world to follow. The study discusses the implications for the state’s portrayal of global health governance during crises.
Visual themes and frames of the Rohingya crisis: newspaper content from three countries neighboring Myanmar
Authors: Irom Bimbisar
Published: June 2023

The ongoing Rohingya refugee crisis that originated in Myanmar has displaced over a million people since the 1990s (UNHCR, nd, ‘Rohingya refugee emergency at a glance’). This article examines visuals of Rohingya refugees from the latest round of violence beginning August 2017 that has led to the exodus of nearly 750,000 refugees to countries in South and Southeast Asia. Images are from reliable newspapers of three countries in that region. The study identifies prominent visual themes, examines image sources and investigates whether visualizations changed over time. By analyzing media images through a content analysis and textual analysis, the author’s goal is to contribute to the complex area of visual framing in which journalists, news outlets, audiences and dominant cultural assumptions play various roles. Results show coverage tended towards the negative and that Western news agencies could play a part in this. Although geographical proximity had an effect, shared religion between the refugees and host populations seems to have minimal impact on coverage. Study of theme change over time was complicated by Covid-19 as newspapers recycled older images possibly due to travel restrictions.
Re-reading the 1972 Faure report as a policy repertoire: Advocacy of lifelong education as recurrent education with neoliberal tendencies
Authors: Hake Barry J
Published: June 2023

This paper explores transnational circulation during the early 1970s of lifelong education and recurrent education as ‘policy repertoires’ addressing redistribution of participation in organised (adult) learning throughout life. Focused on a re-reading of UNESCO’s 1972 report on lifelong education, the paper offers a critical analysis of the Faure Commission’s ‘position-taking’ with regard to its understanding of recurrent education as a policy repertoire. Frequently cited differences between the Commission’s policy recommendations for lifelong education and its position-taking regarding recurrent education are shown to have fragile empirical foundations. This paper argues that Faure’s report explicitly appropriated and openly incorporated arguments favouring recurrent education in its own policy recommendations for lifelong education. Mainstream interpretations of the Faure report are subsequently subjected to a critical analysis of putative neoliberal tendencies articulated by the Faure Commission’s own report. Key areas for further social-historical research regarding policy repertoires in the 1970s are identified.
Engaging with health programming in head start: Parents’ perspectives
Authors: Forrest Dara , Lee Amy , Hegde Archana V , Dev Dipti , Saum Diana , McMillan Valerie , Stage Virginia C
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore parents’ common experiences with healthy eating and physical activity-focused (HE-PA) programming in one Head Start (HS) program (two centers) in eastern North Carolina (NC). Researchers conducted 13 in-depth semi-structured telephone interviews November 2017–May 2018. Participants were parents of preschool children (4–5 years) enrolled in HS. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Phenomenology was used to guide study design and analysis to identify themes. Researchers identified seven emergent themes within three categories: (1) strategies to facilitate engagement; (2) motivators for engagement; and (3) barriers to engagement. HS facilitated engagement through HE-PA focused programming. Parents reported they were motivated by self-interest and their children, but engagement was challenged by poor communication and socioeconomic barriers. HS programs may benefit from new strategies that help parents overcome barriers to making HE-PA a priority amongst competing priorities. Research is also needed to explore new methods of communication that align with parent-reported motivations.
The persistence of bias in education: A call for research to move policy and practice from aspiration to results
Authors: Smith Jo , Meyer Frauke , McClure Heather
Published: June 2023

While it seems the world has made significant social and political progress in the last 50 years by, for example, in many countries decriminalising homosexuality, ensuring greater freedom regarding gender identity, acknowledging women’s rights, or removing racist policies, in the last few years, the world seemed to have turned back into a direction that jeopardises the progress made. Educational institutions are often thought of as progressive spaces; however, the institutions themselves operate in a societal and political context that reflect beliefs – wrong or right – that societies hold. Education researchers and policymakers have attempted to conceptualise a response to address bias, but challenges remain. How policies that highlight the importance of inclusive learning environments, and a recognition and celebration of diversity translate into practice and whether the kind of change envisioned is actually taking place in classrooms and lecture theatres is not well documented. While studies have focussed on establishing the links between bias, teacher behaviour and student learning, few studies have documented effective and sustained efforts to dismantle bias in education. We take the stance in this paper that policies aimed at reducing bias can set parameters aimed at shifting practices, however, what is also needed are interventions at every level of the system to change biased beliefs of those implementing policies, leading in schools and teaching students in classrooms. However, typical professional development only highlights bias theoretically and is inadequate to change teachers’ beliefs. Without disrupting beliefs that perpetuate bias, policies remain aspirational, and intervention outcomes remain elusive. We know from decades of research that bias persists in educational systems, institutions and practices; what we need is research situated at the intersection of policy and practice so that we move from identifying inequities to documenting ways to address them.
Determination of Diabetes Health Literacy Levels of Patients Followed Up With Diabetic Foot Diagnosis: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: Oztas Bediye , Akyuz Simay , Oztas Muharrem , Güven Hikmet Erhan , Yilmaz Kerim Bora
Published: June 2023

The number of studies on the diabetes health literacy of patients with diabetic foot is very limited. The aim of this study was to determine the diabetes health literacy levels of patients with diabetic foot. The data in this cross-sectional, descriptive study were collected using a sociodemographic data collection form and the Health Literacy Scale (HLS). Data were analyzed using SPSS for Windows Version 25.0 software. The HLS total score was 35.96 ± 10.70, and the Functional, Interactive and Critical subscale scores were 11.90 ± 5.04, 13.10 ± 4.80, and 10.96 ± 4.19, respectively. The diabetic health literacy level of the patients was seen to be affected by general education level, the status of having received education about diabetes, and family history of diabetes ( P < .05). The diabetes health literacy level of patients with diabetic foot can be said to be low. This demonstrates the necessity of determining and increasing the health literacy levels of patients diagnosed with diabetes before the development of diabetic foot.
Songs and Songwriting as Transformative Learning Experiences: Three Singer-Songwriters Reflect on Their “Soul Work”
Authors: Montanari Laura
Published: June 2023

This study investigates how songs and songwriting can facilitate transformative learning experiences. Semi-structured interviews conducted with three professional singer-songwriters from different backgrounds helped define how songs and songwriting can nurture one’s soul work, that is, emotions individuation, dialogue between conscious and unconscious, and self-perception and self-understanding. According to these singer-songwriters, songs are psycho-sounds, an intimate space where one can train their emotional side in that they can transport the listener into others’ inner states, thus acting as unmediated emotion-laden images of one’s soul. Songs are defined as parallel universes that facilitate emotional connection between people, generations, and cultures, offering a sublime and mystical dimension intended as the connection to one’s heart. Songwriting favors autoanalysis practices that result in gained inner clarity, energy shifting, and perceived cellular transformation. A prolonged exposure to the emotional aspect of the songwriting craft can thus support the flourishing of intrapersonal intelligence and favor empathy between people.
Optimization of the synthesis, in silico ADME/Tox profiling studies, and evaluation of the antimalarial activity of (7-chloroquinolin-4-ylthio)alkylbenzoate derivatives
Authors: Gutiérrez Joyce E , Fernandez-Moreira Esteban , Acosta María E , Ramírez Hegira , Charris Jaime E
Published: June 2023

Optimized reaction conditions are developed to obtain a series of [(7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)sulfanyl] alcohol derivatives as intermediates to prepare a range of (7-chloroquinolin-4-ylthio) alkylbenzoate derivatives. The structures of all the synthesized compounds are confirmed from their infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectral data, and by elemental analysis. In silico ADME/Tox profiling studies of the synthesized molecules are undertaken, and the potential antimalarial activity of the products is determined. In vitro, all the prepared compounds significantly reduce heme crystallization with IC50 values of < 10 µM. In vivo, the reduction in parasitemia levels and survival time increases are marginal.
Narrating political participation: How do lifetime activists remember their political experiences?
Authors: Serrat Rodrigo , Villar Feliciano , Chacur-Kiss Karima
Published: June 2023

Narrative approaches have gained popularity as a way to understand the construction and development of political identities over a person’s life span. However, little is known about how lifetime activists remember and make sense of different types of political experiences. To overcome this gap, this study aims to explore thematic and structural features of the narratives of lifetime activists about political experiences (O1), as well as examining differences in these features according to the type of experience described and the life stage at which the event narrated occurred (O2). Forty political activists aged 65 years or older were invited to explain a positive event, a negative event and a turning point in their political participation. The motivational themes, affective themes, themes of integrative meaning and structural elements of the narratives were analysed. Results show significant variations in these narrative features according to the type of political experience described and the life stage at which the event narrated occurred. Our study adds to the previous literature on political identities showing that, far from being monolithic, lifelong activists’ narratives about political experiences show significant variations according to these two features. Overall, the structural variations that we found in lifetime activists’ narratives about political experiences largely mirrored previous literature on general autobiographical narratives. This means that, regardless of whether life stories are general or domain-specific, their structural characteristics and the variations they show by life stage and type of narrated events are largely similar.
Three-defender versus two-defender systems in football: A comparison of offensive play
Authors: Otero-Saborido Fernando M , Torreblanca-Martinez Sergio , Torreblanca-Martinez Victor , Nevado-Garrosa Fabio , Nuñez-Campos Manuel , González-Jurado Jose A
Published: June 2023

Scientific research on tactical formations in football is scarce and the studies that do exist focus on aspects linked to physical conditioning. Therefore, the objective of this work was to analyse offensive play differences between three-centre-back (3CB) and two-centre-back (2CB) formations. A total of 72 matches played by eight LaLiga teams (Spain) during the 2018–19 season were analysed. Four teams used a 3CB system and four teams a 2CB system. Data were obtained from the Opta sports company, and the reports were generated using Mediacoach. Three groups of variables were analysed (passes, possession and finishing). The results showed that both the number of team passes (‘passes received’, ‘passes attempted’) and their effectiveness (‘number’ and % of ‘completed’ passes) were significantly greater ( p < 0.001) in 3CB systems. As far as possession was concerned, 3CB systems obtained a higher percentage ( p = 0.004, ES = 0.45), time average ( p = 0.001, ES = 0.57) and possessions with more than nine passes ( p = 0.000). Finally, regarding the variables relating to attack finishing, the values attained significantly higher levels in the 3CB teams in ‘expected goals’ ( p = 0.020), ‘goals scored’ ( p = 0.030) and ‘probability of a shot being a goal’ ( p = 0.046). It could be concluded that 3CB teams presented greater rates of ball possession and attack finishing.
An Observational Crossover Study of People Using Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitors Versus Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Real-World Evidence Using Electronic Medical Record Data From More Than 12,000 People With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Noor Nudrat , Norman Gregory , Sonabend Rona , Chao Lily , Kamboj Manmohan , Golden Lauren , Bekx M. Tracy , Hseih Susan , Levy Carol , Sanchez Janine , Rapaport Robert , Ebekozien Osagie
Published: June 2023

Background:

We used real-world electronic health record (EHR) data to examine HbA1c levels among children and adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) who are classified as continuous glucose monitor (CGM) users after T1D diagnosis and switch to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) during follow-up, versus people who opt for SMBG after T1D diagnosis and switch to CGM during follow-up visits.

Methods:

We conducted an observational, case-crossover study using electronic medical record (EMR) data from the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative. The primary outcome in this study was HbA1c. Baseline HbA1c levels were taken at the index date, corresponding to initial device classification, and compared with HbA1c value recorded at the clinic visit following device switch.

Results:

Of all patients classified in the SMBG group, 7,706 switched to CGM use within the 5-year study time frame, and 5,123 of all initial CGM users switched to SMBG within the study time frame and were included in this analysis. At baseline, median (interquartile range [IQR]) HbA1c for SMBG use was 8.1 (2.4), whereas postcrossover to CGM use, there was a decline in median (IQR) levels to 7.7 (1.9) ( P < .001). For baseline CGM users, median (IQR) HbA1c levels were 7.9 (2.0), and postcrossover to SMBG, median (IQR) HbA1c levels increased to 8.0 (2.9) ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

We found that people who switched to CGM use had significantly improved HbA1c levels compared to those who switched to glucose monitoring with SMBG.
The Effects of the Ward Environment and Language in Palliative Care: A Qualitative Exploratory Study of Victorian Nurses’ Perspectives
Authors: Miller Elizabeth M. , Porter Joanne E. , Barbagallo Michael S.
Published: June 2023

Objectives:

The current study aimed to explore regional nurses’ perspectives of how bad news is delivered and the physical, natural, social, and symbolic environments where these conversations occur.

Background:

In regional hospitals within Victoria, Australia, palliative and end-of-life patients are cared for in acute wards that are often busy, noisy, and do not have a palliative psychosocial focus. On the other hand, Palliative Care Units (PCUs) have more home-like dedicated spaces, yet nearly all these facilities are in metropolitan areas. Diagnostic/prognostic (bad news) conversations about life-limiting illnesses often occur at the bedside in both environments.

Method:

Nurses providing palliative or end-of-life care in regional or metropolitan Victorian hospital inpatient wards were invited to interview and recruited through social media and snowballing. Six semi-structured, audio-recorded online interviews were conducted between March and May 2022, and themes were developed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

Semi-structured online interviews were conducted with six female, registered nurses, four of whom worked in regional Victorian hospitals and two in metropolitan PCUs as Nurse Unit Managers. Three central themes were developed: “conducting family meetings,” “palliative care practice,” and “the environment matters.”

Conclusions:

A therapeutic environment for palliative patients and their families consists of home-like ambience and aesthetics and a psychosocial environment created by staff who can provide holistic palliative care. Holistic palliative care requires mentoring and mirroring of expert practice to increase the expertise and capacity of the palliative care workforce in acute general hospital wards.
Martha Nussbaum’s “world citizen,” original sin, and a purpose to teaching the humanities
Authors: Sansom Dennis
Published: June 2023

An Augustinian understanding of original sin can significantly contribute to the purpose of the teaching of the humanities. It helps at the point where Martha Nussbaum’s understanding of the humanities is inconsistent. She argues that the humanities should cultivate a “world citizen,” that is, a people aspiring towards a universal mindset, appreciating and incorporating the great diversity of cultural values and histories, but who also must rid themselves of the shackles of their own tradition and authority to reach this world citizenship. However, her “world citizen” ends up imposing the values shaped by the Western enlightenment on what to consider important to study about these diverse cultures and histories. Instead, the humanities should clarify the human experience, by showing how all people in all cultures struggle with the same problem—the world is not the way it is supposed to be; we do not know how to fix it, but we must morally improve it. St. Augustine’s teaching on original sin clarifies the cause and effect of the human experience and, thereby, provides a metaphysical basis for the humanities’ agenda to describe the human experience across times and culture.
Community organizations and ethnic media working with foreign household service workers: Applying communication infrastructure theory to migrant health
Authors: Bernadas Jan Michael Alexandre C , Piocos Carlos M , Vilog Ron Bridget T
Published: June 2023

Informed by Communication Infrastructure Theory (CIT), this article explores the ways community organizations and ethnic media serve as communicative resources and form into storytelling networks with different health-enhancing purposes for Filipina household service workers (FHSWs) in Hong Kong (HK). Using key informant interviews with print and broadcast media, non-governmental organizations, and faith-based organizations in HK, it found that cancer, stroke, and depression were shared concerns among FHSWs. Community organizations and ethnic media explained these concerns based on work and labor conditions. As communicative resources, they provided health information, offered tangible support, and campaigned to employers and governments. In discussing social media for health, community organizations highlighted accessibility, whereas ethnic media focused on journalistic practices. Overall, this article highlights ethnic media and community organizations as key but often overlooked publics in health communication and the importance of further incorporating temporality in CIT-informed research for migrant health. Implications to public health campaigns and health reporting are discussed.
The study of higher education policy in remote rural areas of Australia——what can China learn
Authors: Wei Yukai
Published: June 2023

“National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy Final Report” is a national strategic policy aimed at promoting higher education development and personal education welfare of Australians in regional, remote and rural areas (RRR areas). The strategy clarifies the disadvantages of higher education in RRR areas, including fewer educational opportunities, less students' aspirations and slow regional development. It proposes specific measures in 7 areas like support for learning opportunities, financial subsidies and emotional support. This paper uses literature review and adopts “Four Stages of Policy Borrowing in Education” theory as theoretical framework to discuss policy transfer possibility. This paper focuses on the theoretical inspiration level. In stage 1, it discusses the policy background and similar education context in two countries, to clarify the “cross-national attraction” and provides comparative value for higher education of ethnic minorities and rural areas in China. In stage 2, the paper discusses the “decision” and “implementation” of the policy. In stage 3, it focuses on “internalization”, it provides new ideas for development and puts forward four suggestions for improving the higher education of ethnic minorities in remote areas in China, including policy position, policy system innovation, course design and integration.
The Impact of Patient Autonomy Among Uninsured Free Clinic Patients
Authors: Panahi Samin , Spearman Brenda , Sundrud Justine , Lunceford Mason , Kamimura Akiko
Published: June 2023

Uninsured primary care patients tend to experience barriers to autonomy in clinical decision-making due to limited choices of healthcare facilities and low health literacy. This study examined whether certain factors, including the component of patient-centeredness, are associated with patient autonomy among these populations and contribute to reducing disparities in healthcare. This was a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample of free clinic patients aged 18 years and older who spoke English and/or Spanish. Multiple regression analyses were performed to understand factors associated with Ideal Patient's Autonomy. Data were collected from September to December 2019. Findings conclude that Spanish-speaking patients at the free clinic have a stronger belief in a paternalist model of the provider–patient relationship ( P < .01). Better communication between patients and providers results in higher levels of autonomy ( P < .01). Higher levels of educational attainment and better communication partnership were associated with higher levels of a free clinic patient's understanding of treatment risks ( P < .01). This research study found that components of patient-centeredness are important considerations for improving patient autonomy among free clinic patients.
Transnational Habitus as a Configuration of Dispositions: Chinese International Students Navigating Online Information
Authors: Gao Huan
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the impact of transnationalism on Chinese international graduate students’ literacy practices in online information seeking. Using phenomenological interviewing, weekly diaries, and focus group data, the study found that these students actively engage in recursive, dynamic, and flexible online information-seeking literacy practices that transcend linguistic, digital, and unconventional cultural boundaries due to their multilingual capacity and unique social positioning in the online information landscape. This study reveals that these students’ transnational habitus in online information seeking manifests as a configuration of dispositions rather than one fixed transnational habitus. These findings underscore the importance of understanding multilingual international students’ online information-seeking experiences, literacies, and challenges to inform engaging, transnationally inclusive, and culturally relevant information literacy curricula and instruction in U.S. higher education institutions.
Seeking Equity; Pathway Programs in Liaison Committee on Medical Education Medical Schools for Minoritized Students
Authors: Ogunyemi Dotun , Westermeyer Claire , Eghbali Mason , Patel Priyesh , Struble Sarah , Arogyaswamy Sagarika , Teixeira Amir , Raval Niren , Gentry Michael , Lee Tommy , Arabian Sarkis
Published: June 2023

Objectives

There is a paucity of data on pathway programs that seek to increase underrepresented in medicine (URiM) students in medicine. Therefore, this investigation aimed to describe the status and associations of pathway programs at US medical schools.

Methods

From May to July 2021, the authors obtained information by (1) accessing pathway programs listed on the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) website, (2) reviewing websites of US medical schools, (3) calling medical schools to obtain further information. The data retrieved from the medical school websites was compiled into a 27-item checklist based on the maximum number of different items that was extracted from any of the medical school websites. The data included program characteristics, curricula, activities, and outcomes. Each program was assessed on the number of categories of which information was available. Statistical analyses determined significant associations of URiM-focused pathways and other factors.

Results

The authors identified 658 pathway programs: 153 (23%) listed on AAMC website and 505 (77%) identified from medical school websites. Only 88 (13%) programs listed outcomes and 143 (22%) had adequate website information. URiM-focused programs (48%) were independently associated with AAMC website listing (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.62, P  =  .001), no fees requirement (aOR  =  3.33, P  =  .001), oversight by diversity departments (aOR  =  2.05, P  =  .012), Medical College Admission Test preparations (aOR  =  2.70, P  =  .001), research opportunities (aOR  =  1.51, P  =  .022), and mentoring (aOR  =  2.58., P < .001). Programs targeting K1-12 were less likely to offer mentoring, shadowing or research or include URiM students. Programs with outcomes were more likely to be college programs with longer durations and offer research, while programs listed on AAMC website provided more resources.

Conclusion

Although pathway programs are available for URiM students, accessibility issues due to inadequate websites information and early exposure are barriers. Most programs have insufficient data on their website, including a lack of outcome data which is detrimental in today's virtual climate. Medical schools should update their websites to ensure that students requiring support to matriculate into medical school have adequate and relevant information to make informed decisions regarding participation.
Interactive CBT for headache and relaxation training (iCHART): Study protocol of a single-arm trial of interactive voice response technology delivery of cognitive-behavioral therapy for Veterans with post-traumatic headache
Authors: Grinberg Amy S , Datre Olivia , Rogers Daniel G , Clark Sarah W , Takagishi Stanley C , Ney John P , Seng Elizabeth K , Fenton Brenda T , Sico Jason J
Published: June 2023

Background:

Post-traumatic headache (PTH) is persistent and highly disabling. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for headache (CBT-HA) reduces headache frequency and severity and improves people’s quality of life, yet it is underutilized and inaccessible to many. Leveraging technology to deliver evidence-based psychological treatments for headache may address barriers to treatment engagement.

Methods/design:

This single-arm, single-site pilot trial aims to test the feasibility, acceptability, clinical signal, and cost of a five-session CBT-HA intervention delivered via interactive voice response technology (IVR). Participants will include 35 Veterans with PTH receiving care within VA Connecticut Healthcare System. Participants will complete an intake interview and a 9-item, 30-day electronic headache diary during a baseline run-in period. The same diary will be done again by participants immediately after treatment completion. Following the baseline assessment period, eligible participants will receive CBT-HA via IVR for 10 weeks, including an automated daily assessment of patient-reported outcomes and retrieval of biweekly tailored feedback from a study therapist. In addition, participants will access an electronic patient workbook, and study therapists will visualize patient-reported data through a secure provider dashboard. Participants will complete validated and reliable assessment measures at baseline, immediately post-treatment completion (week 10), and 1-month post-treatment completion (week 14). The primary clinical signal outcome is the change in self-reported headache days from the 30-day baseline run-in period before treatment (weeks −4 to 0) to the 30-day post-treatment completion (weeks 10–14). Paired-samples t-tests will explore changes in outcomes from baseline. All cost analyses will be exploratory and will use micro-costing techniques.

Trial Registration:

Clinical Trials.gov: NCT05093556. Registered October 26, 2021.
PRDX1 negatively regulates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis via inhibiting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and lung fibroblast proliferation in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Sun Hu-Nan , Ren Chen-Xi , Lee Dong Hun , Wang Wei-Hao , Guo Xiao-Yu , Hao Ying-Ying , Wang Xiao-Ming , Zhang Hui-Na , Xiao Wan-Qiu , Li Nan , Cong Jie , Han Ying-Hao , Kwon Taeho
Published: June 2023

Background

Pulmonary fibrosis is a major category of end-stage changes in lung diseases, characterized by lung epithelial cell damage, proliferation of fibroblasts, and accumulation of extracellular matrix. Peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1), a member of the peroxiredoxin protein family, participates in the regulation of the levels of reactive oxygen species in cells and various other physiological activities, as well as the occurrence and development of diseases by functioning as a chaperonin.

Methods

Experimental methods including MTT assay, morphological observation of fibrosis, wound healing assay, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, ELISA, western blot, transcriptome sequencing, and histopathological analysis were used in this study.

Results

PRDX1 knockdown increased ROS levels in lung epithelial cells and promoted epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through the PI3K/Akt and JNK/Smad signalling pathways. PRDX1 knockout significantly increased TGF-β secretion, ROS production, and cell migration in primary lung fibroblasts. PRDX1 deficiency also increased cell proliferation, cell cycle circulation, and fibrosis progression through the PI3K/Akt and JNK/Smad signalling pathways. BLM treatment induced more severe pulmonary fibrosis in PRDX1-knockout mice, mainly through the PI3K/Akt and JNK/Smad signalling pathways.

Conclusions

Our findings strongly suggest that PRDX1 is a key molecule in BLM-induced lung fibrosis progression and acts through modulating EMT and lung fibroblast proliferation; therefore, it may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of BLM-induced lung fibrosis.
An analysis of entity normalization evaluation biases in specialized domains
Authors: Ferré Arnaud , Langlais Philippe
Published: June 2023

Background

Entity normalization is an important information extraction task which has recently gained attention, particularly in the clinical/biomedical and life science domains. On several datasets, state-of-the-art methods perform rather well on popular benchmarks. Yet, we argue that the task is far from resolved.

Results

We have selected two gold standard corpora and two state-of-the-art methods to highlight some evaluation biases. We present non-exhaustive initial findings on the existence of evaluation problems of the entity normalization task.

Conclusions

Our analysis suggests better evaluation practices to support the methodological research in this field.
Optimal protocol for in vitro polyploid induction of Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) Sw
Authors: Taratima Worasitikulya , Rohmah Khoirista Noor , Plaikhuntod Kongtong , Maneerattanarungroj Pitakpong , Trunjaruen Attachai
Published: June 2023

Background

Cymbidium aloifolium is a popular ornamental flower in Thailand with both economic and medical values. Polyploid induction techniques are used to improve plant quality. This study identified polyploidy levels of C. aloifolium induction by colchicine. Protocorms of C. aloifolium were treated on solid New Dogashima Medium (NDM) with various concentrations of colchicine (0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05% w/v) for 2, 4 and 8 weeks.

Results

Colchicine effectively induced plant polyploidy. Tetraploid plants were found after treatment with 0.03% and 0.04% colchicine for 8 weeks, while at increased concentration and duration, survival, response and growth performance decreased. Tetraploid plants showed the lowest growth performance but highest size of stomatal and epidermal cells. Growth performance and leaf surface anatomy data were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation and PCA. Results showed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes had strongly negative correlations with other variables, while HCA revealed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes of tetraploid plantlets were larger but stomatal and epidermal cell densities decreased when compared with the diploids.

Conclusion

Colchicine at suitable concentrations and duration produced polyploid plants with alteration of morphological and anatomical traits. This study provides potential information to support orchid quality production as ornamental plants and a source of pharmaceutical raw materials.