bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of At-Risk Drinking, Current Smoking, and Their Co-Occurrence With Primary Care Service Utilization
Authors: Moore John R. , Castro Yessenia , Cubbin Catherine , von Sternberg Kirk
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Smoking and at-risk drinking are each associated with lower primary care utilization, but the influence of their co-occurrence is not known. The current study compared associations of endorsement of one behavior vs endorsement of both with primary care utilization.

Design

Cross-sectional telephone survey.

Setting

All United States and Territories.

Subjects

246 801 adults aged 18–64.

Measures

The outcome was endorsement of attending a past-year primary care visit. Predictor variables included drinking and smoking status examined individually and combined.

Analysis

Multivariable logistic regressions, adjusted for socio-demographics and number of chronic health conditions.

Results

The odds of attending a past-year primary care visit were 24% lower for persons who drank at risk levels compared to the odds of persons who did not drink and 36% lower for persons who smoked vs those who did not smoke. Among persons who endorsed at least one risk behavior, the odds of attending a past-year primary care visit were 25–35% lower for those who engaged in multiple behaviors compared to the odds of persons who engaged in one behavior.

Conclusion

Substance use screening and intervention services in primary care may not be reaching individuals with the greatest need for services. Proactive outreach and identification of primary care utilization barriers are needed, with special consideration of those with co-occurring substance use.
Impact of convective heat transfer and buoyancy on micropolar fluid flow through a porous shrinking sheet: An FEM approach
Authors: Gopal Degavath , Firdous Hina , Saleem Salman , Kishan Naikoti
Published: December 2021

This paper represents steady two-dimensional boundary layer flow of micropolar fluid flow with impact of convective heat transfer and buoyancy force investigated numerically. The shrinking velocity has been expected to fluctuate linearly with the existence of a fixed point on the sheet. With the assistance of similarity transformations, the governing partial differential equations are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations; these nonlinear ODEs are solved numerically by using the variational finite element method. The current numerical results are obtained from the variational finite element method and compared with the previously published literature work, with which it exists in good agreement. The impact of the flow monitoring parameters on velocity, microrotation and temperature profiles is examined graphically and discussed. The skin friction coefficient and Nusselt numbers are impacts from adjusting various values of the physical parameters and relevant features which are studied.
Static roughness element effects on protuberance full-span wing at micro aerial vehicle application
Authors: Jabbari Hossein , Djavareshkian Mohammad Hassan , Esmaeili Ali
Published: December 2021

Although the tubercle wings provide good maneuverability at post-stall conditions, the aerodynamic performance at pre-stall angles is threatened by forming a laminar separation bubble at the trough section of the tubercle wing; consequently, the flight endurance and range are reduced. In the present study, the idea of passive flow control is introduced by using the distribution of static roughness elements on a full-span wing with a sinusoidal leading edge. Initially, the effect of roughness element length, height, and its location are studied at a pre-stall angle (16-degree). Their effect on the laminar separation bubble and vortex shedding formed behind the wing are also investigated. The Reynolds number is assumed to be equal to [Formula: see text] which is in the range of critical Reynolds number and matches to the micro aerial vehicles application. An improved hybrid model, improved delay detached eddy simulation IDDES, has been used to model the flow turbulence structure. In the extended transition region at low Reynolds numbers, the roughness bypassed the instability. Consequently, roughening the surface of the aerofoil increased the boundary layer’s flow momentum, making it more resistible to adverse pressure gradients. By suppressing the bubble, the static roughness element led to pre-stall flow control, which saw an increase in lift coefficient, [Formula: see text], and a decrease in drag coefficient, [Formula: see text]. The results have been demonstrated that the aerodynamic performance, [Formula: see text], has been improved approximately 22.7%, 38%, and 45% for [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text], respectively. The optimal arrangement of static roughness elements could decline the size of the vortices and strengthen the cores associated with them. This claim can be interpreted with the vortex shedding frequency.
Factors Affecting Digital Visibility of Small and Medium Enterprises in India
Authors: Sinha Mudita , Fukey Leena
Published: December 2021

This study sketches the importance of social media, integrated marketing communication, social customer relationship management and its transformation in the small and medium enterprises (SME). These factors can increase interaction and communication of SMEs with its customers. This study incorporates empirical method to elaborate how SMEs can increase visibility and reachability by gaining value through the usage of social media. Findings of the study highlight the challenges faced by SMEs with respect to visibility, examines the usage of different digital platforms by Indian SMEs which can resolve these difficulties and its impact on the business for improved visibility of SMEs when competition is hitting hard on all businesses.
Dealing with the Intangible: Using the Analytical Lens of Hidden Curricula for a Transformative Paradigm of Sustainable Higher Education
Authors: Rammel Christian , Vettori Oliver
Published: December 2021

There is a broad consensus that universities have the potential to act as drivers of education for sustainable development (ESD) and constitute fundamental vehicles to explore, test, develop and communicate conditions for necessary socio-ecological transformations. This goes hand in hand with stronger acknowledgment of the societal role of universities and the related need for a new transformative paradigm of sustainable higher education. Before such a paradigm can be established, before higher education can be transformative, universities themselves must be transformed. Despite various pioneer projects and frontrunners of sustainable universities, real transformations are still rare though.
Livelihood Assets and Income Generating Activities: A Comparative Analysis in the Scheduled and Non-Scheduled Areas of Jharkhand
Authors: Sinha Ashish Aman , Behera Hari Charan , Behura Ajit Kumar , Sahoo Amiya Kumar , De Utpal Kumar
Published: December 2021

The main objective of the article is to identify different types of livelihood assets, income generating activities (IGAs) and choices of these activities by households across social groups in the Fifth and non-Fifth Scheduled areas of Jharkhand in eastern India. It is based on a primary survey of 785 households randomly selected across caste and Scheduled Tribe groups in Giridih and Latehar districts of Jharkhand. K-means clustering is applied for determination of latent class activity clusters and Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR) model used for understanding the importance of livelihood assets in determining livelihood activity cluster (LC) for income generation. Further, discriminant analysis is applied to obtain probability of choice of individual households in determining livelihood generating activity. The analysis shows that forest-based activity remains a better livelihood support system in the Fifth Scheduled areas, which is less significant and further diminishing in the non-Fifth Scheduled areas. Rural households engaged in a diverse set of IGAs to obtain additional income to reduce risk and maintain a balanced consumption. Occupational transition is marked by the decline of agriculture and increasing reliance on daily-wage activities as the primary source of income. Other traditional livelihood activities such as animal husbandry and the collection of forest produce have less scope for income in the absence of institutional support.
Clinical Features of COVID-19 Patients in the First Year of Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al Maqbali Mohammed , Al badi Khalid , Al Sinani Mohammed , Madkhali Norah , Dickens Geoffrey L.
Published: December 2021

Background

The new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) carries a high risk of infection and has spread rapidly around the world. However, there are limited data about the clinical symptoms globally. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to identify the prevalence of the clinical symptoms of patient with COVID-19.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out. The following databases were searched: PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, medRxiv, and Google Scholar, from December 1st, 2019 to January 1st, 2021. Prevalence rates were pooled with meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was tested using I-squared (I2) statistics.

Results

A total of 215 studies, involving 132,647 COVID-19 patients, met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of the four most common symptoms were fever 76.2% ( n = 214; 95% CI 73.9–78.5); coughing 60.4% ( n = 215; 95% CI 58.6–62.1); fatigue 33.6% ( n = 175; 95% CI 31.2–36.1); and dyspnea 26.2% ( n = 195; 95% CI 24.1–28.5). Other symptoms from highest to lowest in terms of prevalence include expectorant (22.2%), anorexia (21.6%), myalgias (17.5%), chills (15%), sore throat (14.1%), headache (11.7%), nausea or vomiting (8.7%), rhinorrhea (8.2%), and hemoptysis (3.3%). In subgroup analyses by continent, it was found that four symptoms have a slight prevalence variation—fever, coughing, fatigue, and diarrhea.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis found the most prevalent symptoms of COVID-19 patients were fever, coughing, fatigue, and dyspnea. This knowledge might be beneficial for the effective treatment and control of the COVID-19 outbreak. Additional studies are required to distinguish between symptoms during and after, in patients with COVID-19.
PD-1 Blockade With Concurrent Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Inoperable Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Joseph Kurian , Walker John , Raziee Hamid , Faruqi Salman , Smylie Michael
Published: December 2021

Introduction

For patients with locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (LA-cSCC), radiotherapy alone (RT) is often the only treatment option with modest tumor response. We report the outcomes of using combination of programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitor and RT in the treatment of inoperable LA-cSCC. The study presents the efficacy and safety data for the patients with LA-cSCC treated with this combination.

Methods

During the period 2018-2020, a total of 7 patients with biopsy proven inoperable LA-cSCC were treated with combination of PD-1 inhibitor cemiplimab and concurrent RT (Cem-RT). The patients were followed up for safety and efficacy of the Cem-RT regimen and the primary endpoints were objective tumor response and toxicity.

Results

The median age of patients was 68 years (range, 64-94). All patients had ECOG performance score 0-1. Six patients initially received cemiplimab and concurrent RT was added to PD-1 inhibitor when there was an inadequate therapeutic response. One patient received concurrent Cem-RT. RT with PD-1 antibody was well tolerated. Six patients developed grade ≤2 dermatitis and 1 patient (patient no. 3) developed acute grade 3 skin reaction. During the post-RT follow up, 3 patients discontinued cemiplimab due to significant toxicities. At the time of reporting , 5 patients remain in complete remission. One patient developed lung metastasis and is currently receiving best supportive care.

Conclusions

The Cem-RT combination was safe and well tolerated with significant tumor response suggesting Cem-RT may be a viable therapeutic option for LA-cSCC. Our hypothesis generating data support the rationale for future prospective studies.
Household intelligent personal assistants in the Netherlands: Exploring privacy concerns around surveillance, security, and platforms
Authors: Mols Anouk , Wang Yijing , Pridmore Jason
Published: December 2021

Intelligent personal assistants (IPAs), also known as smart speakers, are becoming part of everyday life in more and more households around the world. Phone and household IPAs are integrated in intimate home contexts and require connections to (social) media profiles, user accounts, and domestic appliances. Users can control their household with voice-activated commands in order to make life more convenient and efficient. Yet, IPAs also bring privacy and surveillance concerns about devices “listening in,” the “platformization” of home life, and data security. Our exploratory mixed-methods study provides an in-depth and multidimensional account of users' privacy concerns around the emergence of IPAs in Dutch households. We differentiate between surveillance, security, and platform concerns, and our survey results indicate by which factors these are influenced. The focus group analysis highlights the role of conversation, recordability, locatability, control-ability, and assistance affordances. Our findings present a multidimensional and nuanced understanding of privacy concerns around household IPAs. We indicate how smart home technologies raise concerns about privacy, surveillance, device security, everyday behavior, and platform transparency, topics that demand urgent attention before the integration of IPAs will be fully normalized.
Facts of (Financial) life: Political power and re-visualization strategies
Authors: Amit-Danhi Eedan R.
Published: December 2021

Digital visualizations have seen an exponential rise in use by politicians, candidates, and other political actors. Digital visualizations are an informative and engaging genre, but when applied by political candidates, they may also be used to persuade or mislead. However, the ways in which different actors utilize them have yet to receive systematic scholarly attention. Informed by a comprehensive theoretical framework related to political power, digital visualizations, and social media campaigns, I perform grounded qualitative content analysis of all cost-of-living visualizations posed to Facebook during the 2015 Israeli election period, by both peripheral and primary political actors. I define two main argumentation strategies ( Progress Makers & Hinderers and Re-Visualized Economy) reliant on different narrative, visual, and information-oriented strategies by different actors. An overview of the findings reveals digital visualizations as a meeting ground between the political power of actors, the rhetorical power of emotionality, and the cultural-political power of numbers. I conclude with a reflection on re-visualization as a means of expanding a fourth type of power, discursive power, wherein visualizations are used as a tool for resistance by weaker actors, against the narrative of reality promoted by stronger actors, relying on the rhetorical affordances of the digital political visualization genre to increase their political power. Digital visualizations thus offer a uniquely agile tool for political actors of all types to utilize in gaining discursive power in the competition over election narratives in the digital arena of social media.
‘This is a House’: Large Image Collections and Their Platform Embeddings
Authors: Mackenzie Adrian
Published: December 2021

This paper analyses the active role of image collections in supporting platforms and their operations. Large image collections are increasingly present on media, scientific and other platforms. A case study of Facebook’s predictive modelling of satellite images of human settlement exemplifies how image collections are changing. The treatment of images in a predictive model – a deep neural network – constructs a condensed indexical field, a field that allows the platform to generate referential statements about the world. Under platform conditions, image collections function less as archives or records and more as densely woven indexical fields that orient, position and embed the platform. In describing the transformation of image collections, the paper points to important changes in how platforms use images to position themselves in the world.
Parenting behaviors, parenting styles, and non-suicidal self-injury in young people: a systematic review
Authors: Fong Zhi Hui , Loh Wan Ning Charisse , Fong Ying Jie , Neo Hui Ling Michelle , Chee Tji Tjian
Published: December 2021

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a worrying phenomenon that is prevalent among young people. Prior theorizing and empirical evidence suggest that parenting may play a role in the etiology of NSSI. Thus, we conducted a systematic review to examine the association between parenting behaviors and parenting styles with NSSI in young people. Methods: The following databases were searched for relevant articles in July 2020: PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, and PsycINFO. Studies were included if they sampled young persons aged 10–25 years old with a history of NSSI, assessed parenting behavior or style, and tested associations between parenting and NSSI outcomes. Results: A total of 26 studies were included in this review. Among parenting behaviors, low parental support, high psychological control, and high reactive control were more consistently associated with NSSI. Conversely, the evidence for behavioral control is equivocal. There is some evidence that invalidating parenting is also associated with NSSI. Conclusion: Consistent with the wider adolescent psychopathology literature, parenting that is perceived to be supportive, less psychologically controlling and reactive/punitive were less likely to be associated with NSSI. However, these results were largely based on child reports of parenting. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Feasibility trial of virtual reality exposure therapy for selective mutism
Authors: Tan Yi Ren , Ooi Yoon Phaik , Ang Rebecca P , Goh Dion H , Kwan Clare , Fung Daniel SS , Sung Sharon C
Published: December 2021

Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) has been commonly utilised as an extension of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). However, most studies examined its effectiveness among adults, with no study focusing on children with selective mutism (SM). We aimed to examine its feasibility and acceptability among children with SM. Twenty children aged 6–12 with SM diagnosis were recruited and completed six therapist-guided VRET sessions. Parents and clinicians completed measures at pre-VRET, post-VRET, 1-month and 3-month follow-up visits. At post-VRET, parent and child participants completed the acceptability questionnaires. Findings suggested the feasibility of VRET as all participants completed the programme with no attrition. Parents and child participants also reported VRET to be an acceptable and effective treatment for SM. Significant improvement in overall functioning were found at post-treatment and follow-up measures, but there were no significant changes in parent-rated speech frequency and anxiety measures. These support the acceptability of VRET as an adjunct modality (and not substitute) of CBT in SM treatment. Future studies, with more robust experimental designs and larger sample sizes, can be conducted to confirm its efficacy. As technology becomes more sophisticated, tools such as virtual environments can be explored to enhance evidence-based care for children and their families.
Biopolitics' new iteration: Gay men, Pre-exposure prophylaxis and the pharmaco-pornographic imagination
Authors: Crath Rory David , Rangel J. Cristian , Gaubinger Adam
Published: December 2021

This article builds upon Paul Preciado’s conceptualisation of pharmaco-pornographic power to understand the ongoing affects and effects of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) on queer men’s sexual socialities and subjectivities. Drawing from a new-materialist epistemology, we analyze data from a sexual health pilot study in NYC to trace the techno-sexual health assemblages forming in queer life worlds. Our analysis suggests that these assemblages, entangling PrEP and other pharmacological substances, pornographic imaginaries together with mediatic technologies and public health rationalties, are creating paradoxical desires and practices of intimacy that are both normative and exceed rational health-actor logics and normative understandings of risk. These effects have population-level biopolitical implications.
Development Studies in the World System of Global Knowledge Production: A Critical Empirical Analysis
Authors: Demeter Marton
Published: December 2021

In this article, I present the results of an analysis of the geopolitical diversity of 61,781 papers that have been published in 17 leading international journals in development studies, and the results of another analysis in which I analysed the career trajectories of 260 faculty members working at 10 highly valued development studies departments. Regarding geopolitical diversity, I found a systemic inequality in terms of both research output and education trajectories. I argue that these imbalances contradict the expressed goals and values of development studies as a discipline that aims to reduce geopolitical inequalities. Policy implications are also discussed, in which I propose to reconsider academic recruitment standards and to raise the visibility of different epistemologies of published research in development studies.
Families Playing Animal Crossing Together: Coping With Video Games During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pearce Katy E. , Yip Jason C. , Lee Jin Ha , Martinez Jesse J. , Windleharth Travis W. , Bhattacharya Arpita , Li Qisheng
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic was stressful for everyone, particularly for families who had to supervise and support children, facilitate remote schooling, and manage work and home life. We consider how families coped with pandemic-related stress using the video game Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Combining a family coping framework with theorizing about media as a coping tool, this interview study of 27 families (33 parents and 37 children) found that parents and children individual coped with pandemic-related stress with media. Parents engaged in protective buffering of their children with media, taking on individual responsibility to cope with a collective problem. Families engaged in communal coping, whereby media helped the family cope with a collective problem, taking on shared ownership and responsibility. We provide evidence for video games as coping tools, but with the novel consideration of family coping with media.
Using Case Studies to Explore Need Satisfaction and Frustration in Puzzle Video Games
Authors: Pusey Megan , Wong Kok Wai , Rappa Natasha Anne
Published: December 2021

Self-Determination Theory proposes that people are intrinsically motivated to play video games to fulfil the psychological needs of autonomy, competence and relatedness. However, video games can also actively thwart and frustrate these needs. This paper investigates how need frustration affected motivation to solve cognitively challenging puzzle video games. Participants ( n = 27) played two cognitively challenging puzzle video games, with data collected through a survey, recorded gameplay footage and interviews. The analysis reveals that when a player’s primary need for playing was frustrated, they quit easily and did not enjoy the game and when a player’s primary need for playing was satisfied, they displayed resilient behaviours and enjoyed the game. These findings suggest cognitively challenging video games that are more likely to be used in educational contexts should contain features that support autonomy and relatedness as well as competence, in order to be motivating for as many players as possible.
Integration of Narratives Into Mixed Methods Research: An Example From a Study on the Value of Social Support to Older People With Cancer
Authors: Doran Patty , Burden Sorrel , Shryane Nick
Published: December 2021

While many advances have been made mixing other methodologies with mixed methods research (MMR), there are few examples of narrative MMR or detailed procedures for integrating the narrative approach into mixed methods studies. This article contributes to the MMR field an example of integrating narratives in MMR by applying a methodological approach that is shaped by stories. The example integrated findings from cancer narratives with survey data to explore emotional support and quality of life of older people living with cancer. Integration was achieved by, firstly, following a thread through the research phases, and secondly, by using joint displays to align findings. The narrative MMR methodology presented is a tool for putting stories at the center of the research process.
Comparison of transverse versus longitudinal skin incisions for femoral endarterectomy and patchplasty
Authors: Kuyumdzhiev Smilen , Kuyumdzhieva Galena , Tiwari Alok
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Access to the femoral artery for a femoral endarterectomy and patchplasty (CFE) can be undertaken either through transverse (TI) or longitudinal incision (LI). LIs have been shown in previous studies to have higher groin complications though these were undertaken in multiple types of vascular procedures. We looked at wound complications for patients undergoing elective CFE procedures only with or without angioplasty via TI or LI.

Methods

All patients who had undergone CFE were retrospectively analysed from a prospective database. Length of stay, wound complications and readmission rates were recorded. Factors for wound complication were looked at using logistic regression with backward elimination.

Results

122 CFE procedures were performed (30 TI) over the study period. 92 (76.7%) of patients had a prosthetic patch used, whilst 57 (46.7%) patients underwent an adjunctive endovascular procedure, namely, iliac angioplasty and stenting. Median length of stay was 3 days for both groups. The wound complication rate was 6.7% in the TI group and 22.6% in the LI group. 85.6% of the wound complications were identified after discharge. 6/122 (4.9%) were readmitted for intravenous antibiotics, whilst others were managed in the outpatient setting. TI (aOR = 0.15; 95% 0.03–0.75) and combined open FE with endovascular revascularisation (aOR = 0.33; 95% 0.11–0.95) had protective effects on wound complications. Type of the patch used was not associated with any wound complications ( p = 0.07).

Conclusion

Compared to traditional LI, TI for CFE and OTA have lower risk of wound complications and reduced readmission rates in our series. We advocate adopting TI as the standard for femoral artery procedures rather than LI.
Unexpected arterial thrombosis and acute limb ischemia in COVID-19 patients. Results from the Ibero-Latin American acute arterial thrombosis registry in COVID-19: (ARTICO-19)
Authors: Gonzalez-Urquijo Mauricio , Gonzalez-Rayas Jose Manuel , Castro-Varela Alejandra , Hinojosa-Gonzalez David E , Ramos-Cazares Ray Erick , Vazquez-Garza Eduardo , Paredes-Vazquez Jose Gildardo , Castillo-Perez Mauricio , Jerjes-Sanchez Carlos , Fabiani Mario Alejandro ,   on behalf of ARTICO-19 Research Collaborative Group
Published: December 2021

Objective

Few studies have focused on arterial thrombosis and acute limb ischemia in COVID-19. This international registry intended to study the spectrum of clinical characteristics, therapeutic trends, and outcomes in a cohort of Ibero-Latin American patients with arterial thrombosis or acute limb ischemia and COVID-19.

Methods

Data were retrospectively obtained from 21 centers in 9 countries. Patients with proven COVID-19 and asymptomatic or symptomatic arterial thrombosis were included. COVID-19 diagnosis was established by RT-PCR assay or IgM serology plus suggestive clinical/radiographical findings. We recorded and analyzed variables related to demography, clinical presentation, therapeutic trends, and outcomes.

Results

Eighty one patients were included in the registry. In 38.3%, acute limb ischemia symptoms were the first manifestation of COVID-19. Non-surgical management was more frequent in severe cases than surgical interventions, 11.1% vs. 88.9%, respectively ( p = 0.004). Amputation rates were similar between all COVID severity groups ( p = 0.807). Treatment was classified as non-surgical, open surgical, and endovascular treatment. Further analysis revealed an equal frequency of major leg amputation between treatment groups and increased mortality in patients with non-surgical management. However, multivariate regression analysis showed that treatment choices are associated with disease severity, with significant non-surgical treatment in critical patients; thus, mortality is related to the severity and confounds treatment analysis.

Conclusion

Arterial thrombosis can be the initial symptom of a patient presenting with COVID-19. Physicians and health workers should potentially suspect COVID-19 in acute ischemia cases without a known risk factor or embolic cause. More experimental and clinical research is required to understand the complex phenomenon of arterial COVID-19 induced coagulopathy fully.
Does COVID-19 infection increase the risk of pulmonary embolism in ambulatory patients with deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Salihi Salih , Perçin Bilal , Erkengel Halil Ibrahim , Özalp Bilhan , Saçlı Hakan , Kara Ibrahim
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to systemic coagulation activation and thrombotic complications including venous thromboembolism. This study compares the development of pulmonary embolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Methods

One hundred and eight patients diagnosed with acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) between June 2020 and February 2021 in our institution were included in this retrospective study. Thirty-nine patients had been previously diagnosed with COVID-19 and specified as the COVID-19 group. Sixty-nine patients did not have COVID-19 and specified as the non-COVID-19 group. Mean ages of both groups were 64.3 ± 15.8 and 60.1 ± 19.7 years, respectively ( p = .37).

Results

The median duration from the onset of the COVID-19 to diagnosis of DVT was 22 (2–120) days in the COVID-19 group. The patients of two groups were mostly treated outpatient at rates of 94.9% vs 94.2%, respectively ( p = .88). Pulmonary embolism was seen in six patients (15.4%) in the COVID-19 group and in three patients (4.3%) in the non-COVID-19 group ( p = .04). Kaplan–Meir curves showed that patients with COVİD-19 had significantly higher pulmonary embolism than those without COVID-19 ( p = .015). The recurrence rate of DVT was 2.6% in the COVID-19 group ( n = 1), and 4.3% in the non-COVID-19 group ( n = 3), indicating no statistically significant difference ( p = .63). Mortality was seen in six patients (15.4%) in the COVİD-19 group, and in seven patients (10.1%) in the non-COVID-19 group. According to the Kaplan–Meir method, 10 months survival rates were 73.9 ± 10% in the COVID-19 group, and 66.3 ± 12.8% in the non-COVID-19 group with no statistical significance ( p = .218).

Conclusions

Our data draw attention to the fact that deep vein thrombosis should not be considered a safe and self-limited condition. Efficient preventive measures such as mobilization and prophylactic drug use should be considered to prevent DVT during the management of COVID-19.
The Impact of Micro and Macro Environment on Entrepreneurial Success: Case of J&K MSMEs
Authors: Singh Rabinder , Sarangal Rajani Kumari , Singh Gurmeet
Published: December 2021

The present research is focussed on examining the influence of micro- and macro-environmental factors on entrepreneurial success; and the impact of entrepreneurial success on perceived socio-economic benefits in the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector. The information was gathered from 373 entrepreneurs of MSME from different industrial areas of J&K (India). Structural equation modelling (SEM) has been applied to study the relationship among various variables and to develop the model. The findings of the study showed that various micro- and macro-environmental factors significantly influence entrepreneurial success in J&K (India). Furthermore, the study also depicted that entrepreneurial success has a significantly positive impact on perceived socio-economic benefits in J&K (India). Finally, an entrepreneurial environmental and entrepreneurial success model was also developed for strategizing socio-economic development in J&K (India). The study suggests economists and policymakers to use entrepreneurship as an engine to stimulate economic growth, generate job opportunities and overcome poverty. The present study collected information from entrepreneurs of MSMEs operating in different districts of J&K (India). The study is imperative because of its empirical nature within the area of the business environment, entrepreneurial success and its perceived socio-economic impact on the J&K’s MSMEs sector, as little has been done in this area.
Assessing Sustainability Governance and Its Dimensions
Authors: Islam Mohammad Sirajul , Shamsuddoha Mohammad
Published: December 2021

Sustainable performance is essential to stakeholders. Organizations have invested resources to attain competitive advantage, and finally, they get success. But organizations fail to achieve sustainable performance despite having substantial resources. Thus, scholars have realized the need for sustainability governance (SUGO) as an alternative solution to resolve these challenges. The need for this empirical study has arisen due to a lack of validated measurements. The objective of this study is to evaluate and validate the SUGO and its dimensions. To validate the suggested model, this study uses a mixed-method approach. Content analysis (Nvivo-11) describes dimensions in qualitative research, and it explains that all measurements and items are valid and reliable. In addition, partial least squares (PLS)-based structural equation modelling (SEM) (SmartPLS-3) is used to analyse the data collected in the quantitative survey. The results show that all hypotheses are statistically significant, and measurements reflect the SUGO. Furthermore, the results prove that SUGO is a second-order construct, containing four key dimensions: corporate sustainability, knowledge integration, stakeholder collaboration and performance incentive. Finally, the implications of outcomes are argued in the context of theory and practice and suggest further research direction.
Nigerian Law Students’ Perception of Online Teaching: Appraisal of COVID-19-imposed Online Classes
Authors: Adewumi Afolasade A. , Pitan Oluyomi Susan
Published: December 2021

The Council of Legal Education, which is the regulatory body for the legal profession in Nigeria, has made it clear over the years that the training of lawyers cannot be adequately carried out through correspondence or distance learning, which can be interpreted as online learning or remote learning. As a response to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, various online teaching and learning methods were adopted by educational institutions all over the world, to ensure the continuity of the learning process, truncated by the pandemic. This study, carried out through a multidisciplinary approach, is an assessment of the perception of students on the level of effectiveness of COVID-19-imposed online teaching and learning, especially, in comparison with the traditional classroom setting among legal education students in Nigeria. From the study, it was observed that students perceived the online learning method to be more effective than the traditional face-to-face method of delivery but were less focused during the online classes as compared to physical classes. Furthermore, many of the students opined that online classes should be discontinued after the lockdown. Despite students’ distractions during online learning, there is a need to recognize that online learning is a panacea for the crisis at hand (the COVID-19 pandemic), and for as long as it lasts, there may not be a complete return to the physical classroom setting. The study suggests ways of minimizing the challenges that students who do not find online learning effective face with its use, while also calling on the Council of Legal Education to revisit its stance towards the adoption of online learning as a suitable teaching method to be incorporated into legal education.
‘Lucky Boy!’; Public Perceptions of Child Sexual Offending Committed by Women
Authors: Bradbury Paula , Martellozzo Elena
Published: December 2021

This exploratory study addresses the existing gaps on the public perceptions of child sexual offending committed by women. Using thematic analysis, the study extracted, coded and analysed the comments ( N = 1,651) made by the general public to nine Daily Mail online newspaper articles published from 2018 to 2019, reporting the sentencing decisions of female sex offenders, who have been charged and found guilty with the offence of sexual activity with a child. From those comments, 170 coded themes were identified, and this amounted to 3,394 coded incidences. Unlike previous research, this study cross-examines public responses to different typologies of offending behaviour; teachers, mothers, same sex offenders, co-offenders and finally those who offended for financial gain. The impact of these typologies was analysed through key descriptive case variables, which were quantitively evaluated against the prominent themes that emerged. It found that while people demand equal sentencing decisions between male and female child sex offenders, this is limited by public perception when the abuser is an attractive female and, as a result, perceived as less harmful to the child, who is not seen no longer as a victim but as a ‘Lucky Boy’. Such preconceptions fuel shame, social stigma and stereotyping towards sexual exposure and prevents victims to disclose their abuse and achieve closure and justice.
Microfibrillar-associated protein 5 regulates osteogenic differentiation by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin and AMPK signaling pathways
Authors: Li Haoran , Zhou Wuling , Sun Shiwei , Zhang Tianlong , Zhang Tieqi , Huang Haitian , Wang Minghai
Published: December 2021

Background

Dysfunctional osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) plays an important role in osteoporosis occurrence and development. However, the molecular mechanisms of osteogenic differentiation remain unclear. This study explored whether microfibrillar-associated protein 5 (MFAP5) regulated BMSCs osteogenic differentiation.

Methods

We used shRNA or cDNA to knock down or overexpress MFAP5 in C3H10 and MC3T3-E1 cells. AR-S- and ALP-staining were performed to quantify cellular osteogenic differentiation. The mRNA levels of the classical osteogenic differentiation biomarkers Runx2, Col1α1, and OCN were quantified by qRT-PCR. Finally, we employed Western blotting to measure the levels of Wnt/β-catenin and AMPK signaling proteins.

Results

At days 0, 3, 7, and 14 after osteogenic induction, AR-S- and ALP-staining was lighter in MFAP5 knockdown compared to control cells, as were the levels of Runx2, Col1α1 and OCN. During osteogenesis, the levels of β-catenin, p-GSK-3β, AMPK, and p-AMPK were upregulated, while that of GSK-3β was downregulated, indicating that Wnt/β-catenin and AMPK signaling were activated. The relevant molecules were expressed at lower levels in the knockdown than control group; the opposite was seen for overexpressing cell lines.

Conclusions

MFAP5 regulates osteogenesis via Wnt/β‑catenin- and AMPK-signaling; MFAP5 may serve as a therapeutic target in patients with osteoporosis.
Nanoparticles for Cancer Therapy: Current Progress and Challenges
Authors: Gavas Shreelaxmi , Quazi Sameer , Karpiński Tomasz M.
Published: December 2021

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death and morbidity with a complex pathophysiology. Traditional cancer therapies include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, limitations such as lack of specificity, cytotoxicity, and multi-drug resistance pose a substantial challenge for favorable cancer treatment. The advent of nanotechnology has revolutionized the arena of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Nanoparticles (1–100 nm) can be used to treat cancer due to their specific advantages such as biocompatibility, reduced toxicity, more excellent stability, enhanced permeability and retention effect, and precise targeting. Nanoparticles are classified into several main categories. The nanoparticle drug delivery system is particular and utilizes tumor and tumor environment characteristics. Nanoparticles not only solve the limitations of conventional cancer treatment but also overcome multidrug resistance. Additionally, as new multidrug resistance mechanisms are unraveled and studied, nanoparticles are being investigated more vigorously. Various therapeutic implications of nanoformulations have created brand new perspectives for cancer treatment. However, most of the research is limited to in vivo and in vitro studies, and the number of approved nanodrugs has not much amplified over the years. This review discusses numerous types of nanoparticles, targeting mechanisms, and approved nanotherapeutics for oncological implications in cancer treatment. Further, we also summarize the current perspective, advantages, and challenges in clinical translation.
Environmental quality standards for diclofenac derived under the European Water Framework Directive: 1. Aquatic organisms
Authors: Leverett Dean , Merrington Graham , Crane Mark , Ryan Jim , Wilson Iain
Published: December 2021

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory human and veterinary medicine widely detected in European surface waters, especially downstream from Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs). Veterinary uses of diclofenac in Europe are greatly restricted, so wastewater is the key exposure route for wildlife. Proposed Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) which include an assessment of toxicity to aquatic organisms are under consideration by the European Commission (EC) to support the aims of the Water Framework Directive (WFD). The EC approach favours the use of a deterministic (single test value and an assessment factor) approach to the derivation of a direct toxicity EQS for diclofenac, resulting in an EQS of 0.040 µg L−1 based on a single mesocosm study. In this paper, we discuss potential issues with this approach with respect to the EC’s own guidance on EQS derivation and derive an evidence-driven alternative EQS of 0.126 µg L−1 using a probabilistic (species sensitivity distribution) approach that accounts for all of the reliable and relevant data and is in accordance with the guidance. Europe-wide freshwater monitoring data for diclofenac are used in an indicative compliance assessment using the EC and the alternative evidence-driven EQS. The implications of using only some data to derive an EQS that does not adhere to the guidance, compared to a guidance-compliant approach that uses all the data available are also discussed.
Air quality index variation before and after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic: a comprehensive study on 87 capital, industrial and polluted cities of the world
Authors: Sarmadi Mohammad , Rahimi Sajjad , Rezaei Mina , Sanaei Daryoush , Dianatinasab Mostafa
Published: December 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic provided an opportunity for the environment to reduce ambient pollution despite the economic, social and health disruption to the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in the air quality indexes (AQI) in industrial, densely populated and capital cities in different countries of the world before and after 2020. In this ecological study, we used AQI obtained from the free available databases such as the World Air Quality Index (WAQI). Bivariate correlation analysis was used to explore the correlations between meteorological and AQI variables. Mean differences (standard deviation: SD) of AQI parameters of different years were tested using paired-sample t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test as appropriate. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to recognize meteorological variables affecting the AQI parameters.

Results

AQI-PM2.5, AQI-PM10 and AQI-NO2 changes were significantly higher before and after 2020, simultaneously with COVID-19 restrictions in different cities of the world. The overall changes of AQI-PM2.5, AQI-PM10 and AQI-NO2 in 2020 were – 7.36%, – 17.52% and – 20.54% compared to 2019. On the other hand, these results became reversed in 2021 (+ 4.25%, + 9.08% and + 7.48%). In general, the temperature and relative humidity were inversely correlated with AQI-PM2.5, AQI-PM10 and AQI-NO2. Also, after adjusting for other meteorological factors, the relative humidity was inversely associated with AQI-PM2.5, AQI-PM10 and AQI-NO2 (β = − 1.55, β = − 0.88 and β = − 0.10, P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

The results indicated that air quality generally improved for all pollutants except carbon monoxide and ozone in 2020; however, changes in 2021 have been reversed, which may be due to the reduction of some countries’ restrictions. Although this quality improvement was temporary, it is an important result for planning to control environmental pollutants.
Building a reference transcriptome for Juniperus squamata (Cupressaceae) based on single-molecule real-time sequencing
Authors: Wang Yufei , Xie Siyu , Li Jialiang , Tang Jieshi , Ju Tsam , Mao Kangshan
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Cupressaceae is the second largest family of coniferous trees (Coniferopsida) with important economic and ecological values. However, like other conifers, the members of Cupressaceae have extremely large genome (> 8 gigabytes), which limited the researches of these taxa. A high-quality transcriptome is an important resource for gene discovery and annotation for non-model organisms.

Data description

Juniperus squamata, a tetraploid species which is widely distributed in Asian mountains, represents the largest genus, Juniperus, in Cupressaceae. Single-molecule real-time sequencing was used to obtain full-length transcriptome of Juniperus squamata. The full-length transcriptome was corrected with Illumina RNA-seq data from the same individual. A total of 47,860 non-redundant full-length transcripts, N50 of which was 2839, were obtained. A total of 57,393 simple sequence repeats were identified and 268,854 open reading frames were predicted for Juniperus squamata. A BLAST alignment against non-redundant protein database was conducted and 10,818 sequences were annotated in Gene Ontology database. InterPro analysis shows that 30,403 sequences have been functionally characterized against its member database. This data presents the first comprehensive transcriptome characterization of Juniperus species, and provides an important reference for researches on the genomics and evolutionary history of Cupressaceae plants and conifers in the future.