bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘I’m not just being difficult . . . I’m finding it difficult’: A qualitative approach to understanding experiences of autistic parents when interacting with statutory services regarding their autistic child
Authors: Radev Sarah , Freeth Megan , Thompson Andrew R
Published: November 2023

The experiences of autistic parents when interacting with statutory services for their autistic children is not well understood. This study investigates the experiences of autistic parents’ interactions with statutory services, including education and healthcare, in relation to their autistic children. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to investigate their experiences. Ten autistic mothers of autistic children in mainstream education completed semi-structured interviews, which were co-developed with autistic parents. Two superordinate themes were developed: (1) The wider system is the problem and (2) Feeling judged and stigmatised. While Theme 1 demonstrates some similarities in the experiences of autistic parents to that of non-autistic parents in previous studies, theme 2 is unique to autistic parents who may feel that they are being treated differently. These themes indicate the importance of training encouraging a strength-based rather than deficit-based understanding of autism. Participants highlighted the wider system is the problem rather than individual professionals, and that it places some families at a disadvantage.

Lay abstract

Becoming a parent is an important part of adult life for many people, including autistic people. Many parents of autistic children can find getting the right support for their children difficult. Knowledge is currently poor about how this is experienced by parents who are also autistic themselves. The main researcher is also an autistic parent to an autistic child and other experts by experience were consulted in the development of the study. Ten autistic mothers with autistic children in mainstream education were interviewed about their experiences of seeking support for their autistic children from services such as healthcare and education. Participants talked about finding the overall system being the main problem, rather than the individuals working in it, and about needing to fight to get the right support for their children. These are points that non-autistic parents have also raised before. Participants also talked about feeling judged and stigmatised for being autistic, and about struggling to manage sensory and communication difficulties, which is something that has not been talked about by non-autistic parents. Improving services to offer better support to autistic families is important and can be achieved through better training. This training should be developed and run by autistic adults and focus on positive aspects of autism, rather than negative.
Differences in heating effects of three personalized heating devices under various indoor temperatures: Table heating pad, cushion heating pad and leg heating pad
Authors: Chao Jia , Li Shaoxuan , Zhang Zhicheng , Wang Menghan , Hou Wenzhuo
Published: November 2023

The personalized environmental control system (PECS) meets the diverse comfort needs of occupants in an efficient way, amongst which, personalized heating systems have been extensively applied for heating in winter. Based on the differences in targeted body segments and application scenarios, the study of the heating performance and examining the applicability of different heating devices under various working conditions are necessary. In the present study, the heating effect of selected personalized heating devices including table heating pads, cushion heating pads and leg heating pads was investigated under different indoor temperatures (16°C, 18°C and 20°C). The results show that the cushion heating pads could produce the best heating effect in the environment at 16°C and 18°C. The average thermal comfort vote (TCV) was 0.00 and 1.08, respectively. While in the environment at 20°C, the leg heating pad (LH) was found to be the best with an average value of TCV to be 0.92. Personalized heating devices could directly enhance the thermal sensation and skin temperature of targeted body segments, such as the hands as well as legs, which are to be the most beneficial parts. The conclusions drawn above clarify the application scenarios of selected heating devices and will help to develop more energy-efficient heating schemes in winter.
Numerical investigation on energy absorption characteristics of impact-resistant lightweight structure of bio-mimetic micro aerial vehicle
Authors: Jianxun Du , Chengzhou Xue , Zhengjian Feng , Chaoqi Xu , Kai Liu
Published: November 2023

With the increasing development of micro aerial vehicle, the impact resistance of the structure has gradually become a research hotspot. The beetle's exoskeleton not only provides important protection for its body and flexible wings but also ensures its good flight performance. Therefore, the beetle's exoskeleton has become an important research content in the field of bio-mimetic micro aerial vehicles. In this study, taking the internal structure of the beetle's exoskeleton as the research object, a kind of bio-mimetic lightweight thin-walled impact-resistant structure that can be used in the micro aerial vehicle is proposed. The energy absorption characteristics of the bio-mimetic structure under axial impact loading are calculated and analyzed by the numerical simulation method, and the important parameters such as impact angle, protective layer thickness, and wall thickness are optimized and discussed. The main results include that the filling method of the hollow column has a certain correlation with the energy absorption characteristics of the structure under different impact angles, and among the different cross-sectional shapes, the hollow column with a circular cross-sectional configuration has the best energy absorption ability. In addition, as the internal space of the structure increase exponentially, the decrease of specific energy absorption value of the bio-mimetic structure is relatively small. Finally, the wall thickness with good energy absorption characteristics is about 1.5 mm, while the preferred span length of the structure is between 90 and 120 mm.
(M)apping film in Scotland: Film tour maps, apps and ‘real’ engagements with virtual place
Authors: Schiavone Rosa , Brandellero Amanda
Published: November 2023

This article presents an analysis of film tour apps and maps, exploring the different functionalities they offer, how these functionalities contribute to shaping engagements with place in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the specific role of film in this process. We find that while they possess similar functionalities to more general tourism apps – for example, providing information and offering travel advice – film tour apps and maps also connect the real world to the ‘reel’ world through games, active engagement, and prosumerism. The specific functionalities of film media apps, we argue, have ramifications for film tourism experiences, potentially extending the touristic experience of a destination to a multi-mediated, multi-layered experience of a ‘patchwork’ place through the lens of film. Additionally, functionalities of film tour apps facilitate new types of behaviours and interactions with place.
Prenatal Exposure to Intimate Partner Violence and Child Developmental Outcomes: A Scoping Review Study
Authors: Kim June-Yung , Zhang Lixia , Gruber Anne Marie , Kim Sun Kyung , Holmes Megan R. , Brevda Amanda
Published: November 2023

Pregnant women face an increased risk of intimate partner violence (IPV). In addition to the risk of violence faced by women, there is a dual concern for risk of harm to the fetus. Expanding knowledge on childbirth outcomes, other domains of children’s development have been examined in recent literature. Yet, there is limited comprehensive knowledge in the area. This scoping review study, informed by ecobiodevelopmental theory, mapped evidence associating prenatal IPV exposure and children’s development. We searched eight databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, and ERIC. Thirty-one empirical studies published in English that associated prenatal IPV exposure and children’s development were eligible for our review. Included studies were published between 2006 and 2022, with 39% published in the most recent 5 years. Eighteen studies had sample sizes smaller than 500, and 21 were atheoretical; six failed to consider covariates. Reviewed studies showed adverse effects of prenatal IPV exposure on psychological, behavioral, physical health, and physiological outcomes, either directly or indirectly via mechanisms such as maternal behavioral health. Due to inconsistency in results and a lack of empirical evidence, however, social and cognitive outcomes were identified as needing further research to enhance our understanding of the global and domain-specific effects of prenatal IPV exposure. Prospective longitudinal studies, driven by theories of causal mechanisms, which adjust for empirically qualified confounders, will be critical to inform practice and policy to promote healthy development of prenatally IPV-exposed children. Incorporating strengths/asset-focused outcomes and examining contextual factors and sex/gender specific effects may advance the knowledge in this area.
Risk and Protective Factors Associated With Intimate Partner Violence with Gay Men: A Scoping Review
Authors: Domingos Viviane Amy Costa , de Lira Aline Nogueira
Published: November 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a complex, multidimensional phenomenon and may involve different risk and protective factors, as well as people of different sexual orientations, including gay men. Despite scientific evidence of the high prevalence of victimization and perpetration of this phenomenon, IPV in gay men is still largely invisible. The aim of this study was to map the risk and protective factors related to IPV among gay cis men based on a literature review. The Scopus, PsycNET, Pubmed, BVS-Psi, and SciELO databases were searched to retrieve articles published between 2018 and 2022. Thematic analysis was used to map the risk and protective factors of the 29 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Among the results, most studies investigated the risk factors for victimization of IPV, despite showing the high prevalence of bidirectionality in IPV among gay men. In addition, multiple risk and protective factors (individual, relational, and socio-community) have been shown to be associated with IPV among gay men. Mapping risk and protective factors for IPV at different ecological levels makes it possible to identify a more accurate profile of gay men’s vulnerabilities, in addition to enabling the construction of more systemic interventions, which are multisectoral with specific prevention strategies, for IPV among gay men.
Infant and Parent Outcomes Related to NICU-Based Co-occupational Engagement
Authors: Richter M. , Angell A. , Kellner P. , Smith J. , Pineda R.
Published: November 2023

Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) co-occupations may impact parent–infant outcomes. The main objective of this study was to explore relationships between parent and infant outcomes based on whether sensory-based interventions (co-occupations) occurred most often between parent–infant dyads or provider/volunteer–infant dyads. Thirty-five families received the Supporting and Enhancing NICU Sensory Experiences (SENSE) program, which includes education defining specific amounts of sensory exposures for infants to receive each day of NICU hospitalization (with a preference for parent delivery). Infant sensory experiences in the NICU were logged, and dyads were grouped based on who conducted most of the sensory interventions with the infant in the NICU into a Parent–Infant Co-occupation group or Other Administered group. The Parent–Infant Co-occupation group had infants with less lethargy on the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale ( p = .04), and parents with lower scores on the Parental Stress Scale ( p = .003) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-state ( p = .047). Parent–infant engagement in co-occupations was related to parental mental health and infant neurobehavior.
Investigation of the Consumer Perspective on Leisure in Mental Health Inpatient Units
Authors: Levick Jessica , Broome Kieran , Gray Marion , Theodoros Theo , Morrison Thomas , Kar Ray Manaan
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to explore the barriers to engagement in activity and consumer satisfaction in inpatient settings. Participants were current inpatient consumers and completed an online anonymous survey. This included the Mental Health Satisfaction Improvement Program (MHSIP), Leisure Boredom Scale (LBS), and the Checklist of Leisure Interests and Participation (CLIP). A total of 57 participants partially completed the survey with 41 completed responses. Participants reported several barriers to engagement, including lack of staff, limited social engagement, limited range of activity, and a lack of resources. Most participants reported to be either “very satisfied” (24.24%) or “somewhat satisfied” (36.36%) with the level of activity offered. Participants reported to be bored due to a limited occupational range offered in the mental health inpatient unit. Participants identified the need for assistance in the facilitation of activity.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability, and Convergent Validity of Occupational Self-Assessment for Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Mendes Paulo V. B. , Carrijo Debora C. M. , Costa Jacqueline D. , Popova Evguenia S. , Baron Kathi B. , Cruz Daniel M. C.
Published: November 2023

The Occupational Self-Assessment version 2.2 (OSA) is a self-assessment of the client’s occupational competence and values. To describe the process of cross-cultural adaptation of OSA into Brazilian Portuguese (OSA-Brazil) and examine its reliability and validity for use with the Brazilian population. Assessment translation was guided by two international guidelines for cross-cultural adaptation of standardized instruments. Face validity was tested with 24 participants. Internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and convergent validity were tested with a convenience sample of 40 participants. The cross-cultural adaptation process concluded with a consensus among the expert panel review ( r > 80%) and evidence of strong face validity. The OSA-Brazil demonstrated appropriate test–retest reliability ( r > 0.70) and convergent validity with the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) ( p < .05). The OSA-Brazil has good face validity, test–retest reliability, and convergent validity. The assessment can be used by the Brazilian occupational therapists to assess client’s occupational competence.
Single Anesthesia Strategy for Definitive Management of Bilateral Ground Glass Opacities Using Robotic Bronchoscopic Localization and Resection
Authors: Zhao Jane , Cleland Paul , D’Souza Desmond M. , Kneuertz Peter J.
Published: November 2023

This case series describes 2 patients who underwent a single anesthesia strategy for definitive management of bilateral ground-glass opacities harboring adenocarcinoma-spectrum lesions using robotic navigational localization paired with robotic thoracoscopic resection.
RSV vaccination in older adults: Addressing vaccine hesitancy using the 3C model
Authors: Houle Sherilyn K. D. , Andrew Melissa K.
Published: November 2023

The first vaccine against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) targeting older adults was approved for use in Canada in August 2023. As a frequent first point of contact for Canadians seeking advice on vaccination and the most common setting for the administration of influenza vaccines, community pharmacies will also play a role in RSV vaccination efforts. To address vaccine hesitancy confidently and effectively, pharmacists must be equipped with knowledge of the factors that affect a person’s decision on whether to be vaccinated or not. The 3C Model of Vaccine Hesitancy summarizes these as complacency, confidence and convenience. This article introduces the model and describes the often-underrecognized relevance of RSV to older adults, including risk factors and burden of disease. It also reviews the history and status of vaccine development and approval and presents clinical trial data to equip pharmacists to discuss RSV vaccination with older adults who express vaccine hesitancy.
Far away but close at heart? German and Israeli consumption of news concerning the 2022 Russian–Ukrainian war
Authors: Ariel Yaron , Unkel Julian , Weimann Saks Dana , Malka Vered Elishar
Published: November 2023

This study, conducted in Germany and Israel in May 2022, compares German and Israeli news media consumption concerning the Russian–Ukrainian war using a structured online questionnaire. A total of 1,310 and 509 valid questionnaires were completed in Germany and Israel, respectively, examining differences in how news consumers used media to access information. Specifically, objective and subjective proximity to Ukraine and Ukrainians, interest in politics and media perceptions were examined as potential predictors of use patterns of various media. For most variables, Germans and Israelis similarly sought news about the war, especially in mainstream news media. In Israel, objective and subjective proximities to Ukraine were the most significant predictors for consuming mainstream news media, with interest in politics and media trust being less important. In Germany, the latter factors predicted mainstream news media consumption more strongly than ties and subjective proximity, while trust in the mainstream media was not a significant predictor. Finally, the authors found that the lower the trust in mainstream media, the larger the volume of social media consumption about the war.
Mining the past: The case for historical narratives in global justice theorizing
Authors: Williams Huw L
Published: November 2023

Debates on global justice, it is claimed, can be enriched in important ways by more explicitly historicizing our approach and using historical narratives, stories and debates to expand our conceptual vocabulary and theoretical purview. The claim is illustrated through a specific analysis of Paul Robeson’s relationship with the Welsh Miners. It is argued such a historical turn, grounded in a wider interdisciplinary engagement with subjects such as cultural studies may see at least three key benefits accrue in terms of our understanding of the field. Firstly, it can uncover philosophical and theoretical ideas and alternatives so far unconsidered; secondly, it can generate a shift in the empirical frame that accounts for and seeks to identify means for “real world” political change; lastly, it should encourage us to question the in/out dichotomy at the heart of the western debate, which projects global injustice as being “out there.”
Acute abdominal pain
Authors: Allen Sarah , Wallis Dr Charlie
Published: November 2023

Abdominal pain is a common reason for patients presenting to primary care and has a wide range of differentials. It can be acute or chronic, with the latter being defined as lasting over 3 months. A myriad of conditions can cause acute abdominal pain, ranging from life-threatening to self-limiting. Common causes of acute abdominal pain include differentials from the gastrointestinal, urological, gynaecological, genitourinary, and vascular systems. This requires clinicians to have a breadth of knowledge to safely manage these patients. The differential diagnoses need to be established through a thorough history and physical examination, ultimately aiding the decision between management in primary versus secondary care. This article will highlight features within the history and examination required to distinguish the causes of acute abdominal pain and some to aid decisions on management, whether in primary care or needing referral to secondary care. The article will provide a brief overview of common causes of acute pain by location in the abdomen.
Civil Society Between Repression and Cooptation: Adjusting to Shrinking Space in Cambodia
Authors: Lorch Jasmin
Published: November 2023

Scholarship on autocratisation has investigated the strategies of cooptation and repression that autocratic and autocratising regimes employ to maintain and enhance their power. However, it has barely explored how civil society reacts to these strategies. Concurrently, the existing research on civil society and social movements mostly suggests that civil society organisations (CSOs) will either resist autocratic repression or disband because of it, thereby often neglecting the possibility of CSOs’ adaptation to autocratic constraints. In this article, I seek to bridge these theoretical gaps with empirical evidence from Cambodia. I argue that for CSOs that operate in autocratic and autocratising regimes allowing themselves to become coopted by the regime can constitute a deliberate strategy to avoid repression, secure their survival, and exert social and political influence. However, while this strategy often seems to be effective in allowing CSOs to survive and escape large-scale repression, its success in enabling civil society to exert social and political influence remains limited, owing to structural limitations embedded in the autocratic context. Moreover, CSOs’ acceptance of cooptation often enhances divisions within civil society.
Investigating the Protective Effects of Rhubarb on Cerebral Ischemic Stroke Rats Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Liang Yuhua , Mao Mingjiang , Cao Xingqin , Guo Ying
Published: November 2023

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the pharmacological mechanism of rhubarb, a widely used Chinese medicine for the treatment of cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS), which remains poorly understood. Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, we further to investigate the protective effcts of rhubarb on CIS rats.

Methods

To evaluate the oral bioavailability and drug similarity, rhubarb compounds were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and subjected to assessment based on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion criteria. A total of 12 compounds were identified through the utilization of network analysis, and their identification was further confirmed by means of mass spectrometry. Additionally, the SwissTargetPrediction tool successfully predicted 296 potential targets associated with rhubarb, while the databases NCBI, GeneCards, Drug Bank, and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man collectively identified 3027 targets related to CIS. Among these targets, 195 were found to be potentially associated with rhubarb. To analyze the functional annotation of Gene Ontology (GO) pathway enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway, a protein-protein interaction network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.7.2. Next, we established the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to evalute the protective effect of rhubarb on CIS rats. First, we using neurological function score to observe the neurologic impairment symptoms. TTC staining was used to measure the cerebral infarction volume. We determined the contents of MDA, SOD, and LDH using Biochemical reagent kits and the levels of TNF-α and IL-1β using ELISA kits. Finally, Western blot were employed to examine the protein expressions of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Results

A comprehensive identification of 20 genes associated with various pathways, including the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Additionally, through docking experiments, it was determined that the hub compounds (Eupatin, sitosterol, rhein, and (-)-catechin) may potentially impact the top 5 targets (AKT1, TNF, VEGFA, TP53, and IL1B). After the intervening with rhubarb, rhubarb signalificantly decreased the neurological function score and cerebral infarction volume; It also lowered the MDA and LDH contents and increased SOD content; Similarly, it decreased TNF-α and IL-1β levels; It increased the expreassion of p-PI3K and p-Akt1.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated rhubarb exerts a protective effect via regulating PI3K/Akt signal pathway. These findings serve as a valuable reference for the advancement of drug discovery and development in this field.
Data Sharing: HOW to Tell Your Story
Authors: Stanislo Kimberly J.
Published: November 2023

This is the second in a series of articles looking at school health data collection from identification of data points to utilizing data to share your story and submit your data to contribute to the National School Health Data Set: Every Student Counts! This article focuses on using data to share your story. Data storytelling versus data visualization will be discussed as well as HOW schools nurses can utilize easy access programs to support this process. Building on the first article in the series, the school nurse will not only identify the WHY and WHAT related to data collection but also HOW to link school health data to educational data to increase the audience of the story and follow data sharing regulations.
Behavioral Compliance with Safety Signs and Labels: An Analysis of Research Methods from the Past 25 Years
Authors: Diebol Julia K. , LoVoi Kelly , Coelho Chason J.
Published: November 2023

This paper reviews research published from 1998 to 2022 that involved collection of original data related to behavioral compliance with safety signs and labels. This review provides a needed update to previous similar reviews using a published taxonomical approach. The approach was used here to categorize study methodology and was extended to further categorize studies by whether they addressed behavioral compliance or intention/predicted likelihood of compliance. Nearly all of the studies reviewed assessed behavior in laboratories or via surveys of hypothetical scenarios, and relatively few used real-world experimental or real-world observational methods. Results revealed a lack of empirical demonstrations that intention and predicted likelihood of compliance are reliable predictors of real-world behavioral compliance. There was also a notable lack of evidence that warnings design aspects impact such real-world compliance.
Knowledge and Attitude Regarding Human Monkeypox Virus Infection among Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rony Moustaq Karim Khan , Sharmi Priyanka Das , Akter Dilruba , Parvin Mst. Rina , Alamgir Hasnat M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Monkeypox (Mpox) is an infectious illness that can spread to humans through infected humans, animals, or contaminated objects. In 2022, the monkeypox virus spread to over 60 countries, raising significant public health concerns. Nurses play a vital role in patient care and have critical responsibilities in managing infected patients and being aware of the potential impact on the general population.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and attitudes (KAs) of Bangladeshi nurses regarding monkeypox infectious disease.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2022 and March 2023 to evaluate the KA of nurses. Semi-structured and self-administered questionnaires were used, distributed via Google Form, and a convenient sampling technique was implemented. The dataset was analyzed using the Chi-square test, multivariable logistic regression, and Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

A total of 1047 datasets were included in the final analysis. Overall, 57.97% of the participants demonstrated good knowledge, and 93.12% of the respondents had a positive attitude towards monkeypox disease. Female nurses exhibited better knowledge (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.36; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.88–1.98) and a more positive attitude (AOR 1.64; 95% CI 1.12–3.00) than male nurses. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between good knowledge of monkeypox disease and a positive attitude (r = 0.76, p < 0.001), while poor knowledge moderately correlated with a negative attitude (r = 0.53, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Given the need for further improvement in KA, we recommend implementing additional training programs to enhance the abilities and motivation of nurses in effectively managing patients affected by monkeypox.
Emerging Disease of the Desert: Rise of West Nile Virus Chorioretinitis in Arizona
Authors: Odden Jamie L. , Patel Dillan , Bryan J. Shepard , Bakall Benjamin , Patel Rima , De Souza Stephen
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To present 7 cases of West Nile virus (WNV)–related chorioretinitis in Arizona. Methods: Retina clinic charts with the terms “chorioretinitis” and “West Nile” were selected from April 1, 2012, to February 1, 2023. Results: Seven patients with initial visits between August 2019 and February 2023 were included. The majority of WNV chorioretinitis cases were seen in the last 4 years of the selected dates. Only 1 patient presented before this time but was excluded for inadequate baseline testing. All 7 patients had hospitalization for neuroinvasive disease before clinical presentation. All patients achieved a final visual acuity of 20/25 to 20/70. Conclusions: In the last 4 years of the study period, an uptrend in WNV chorioretinitis was found in our retina clinics in Arizona, reflecting the overall rise in WNV outbreaks across the state. As WNV continues to rise, the eye specialist should have high suspicion for WNV ocular disease, even in states where WNV had been an uncommon entity.
Controlling factors of coating thickness of Sisko fluid in blade coating process
Authors: Hanif Alia , Abbas Zaheer , Khaliq Sabeeh
Published: November 2023

Blade coating is a technique for coating the moving substrate with a protective fluid layer through the blade as a common smoothing device. The heat transfer and slip effects of the rheological Sisko fluid model for plane coater are considered under blade coating process. This model combines the power-law and Newtonian fluids and taken as the limiting behavior of a blade coating in the stiff blade limit. The flow of greases is the most significant example of this type of fluid, which is easily found in nature and has many practical uses. To solve the non-linear expressions, LAT (Lubrication Approximation Theory) is applied, and a shooting technique is used for numerical solutions. The impacts of several parameters on flow characteristics, particularly the velocity ratio K, the Sisko fluid parameter b, the power-law index n, and the slip parameter α are investigated. The effects of both shear-thinning and shear-thickening behaviors are also investigated. The lubrication pressure and temperature increase with the Sisko fluid parameter b and decrease with the slip parameter α. As material parameter b increases from (0.001–1), 20.7% reduction in coating thickness and a 53.2% pressure reduction is noted as compared to the Newtonian case.
Plasma modification of graphene nanoplatelets surfaces
Authors: Johnson Tyler , Wang Keliang , Fan Qi Hua , Lee Andre
Published: November 2023

Atmospheric plasma processing, which combines the efficacy of chemical processes and the safety of physical processes, has been used to modify the surface characteristics of graphite-based materials. In this work, two distinct plasma source gases, C4F8 and O2, with the addition of a rotary reactor were used. The effectiveness of modifying the basal plane of intercalated graphite nanoplatelets (GnP) was investigated with various analytical techniques and the visual observation of the dispersion of these plasma-treated GnP in solvents was also reported. It is shown that this low-temperature plasma processing technique can be used to successfully modify the GnP surface without significantly changing the intrinsic structure of the GnP, which is desirable in many applications. With the C4F8 plasma treatment, the immersion characteristics in solvents can be tuned and the functional groups present on the surface can be tailored to produce desired bonding environments. This surface chemistry tunability will provide the needed functionalities in creating graphene-containing composite materials.
Characterizing intubation practices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: a survey of the Canadian COVID-19 Emergency Department Rapid Response Network (CCEDRRN) sites
Authors: Ismath Muzeen , Black Holly , Hrymak Carmen , Rosychuk Rhonda J. , Archambault Patrick , Fok Patrick T. , Audet Thomas , Dufault Brenden , Hohl Corinne , Leeies Murdoch
Published: November 2023

Objective

The risk of occupational exposure during endotracheal intubation has required the global Emergency Medicine (EM), Anesthesia, and Critical Care communities to institute new COVID- protected intubation guidelines, checklists, and protocols. This survey aimed to deepen the understanding of the changes in intubation practices across Canada by evaluating the pre-COVID-19, early-COVID-19, and present-day periods, elucidating facilitators and barriers to implementation, and understanding provider impressions of the effectiveness and safety of the changes made.

Methods

We conducted an electronic, self-administered, cross-sectional survey of EM physician site leads within the Canadian COVID-19 Emergency Department Rapid Response Network (CCEDRRN) to characterize and compare airway management practices in the pre-COVID-19, early-COVID-19, and present-day periods. Ethics approval for this study was obtained from the University of Manitoba Health Research Ethics Board. The electronic platform SurveyMonkey (www.surveymonkey.com) was used to collect and store survey tool responses. Categorical item responses, including the primary outcome, are reported as numbers and proportions. Variations in intubation practices over time were evaluated through mixed-effects logistic regression models.

Results

Invitations were sent to 33 emergency department (ED) physician site leads in the CCEDRRN. We collected 27 survey responses, 4 were excluded, and 23 analysed. Responses were collected in English (87%) and French (13%), from across Canada and included mainly physicians practicing in mainly Academic and tertiary sites (83%). All respondents reported that the intubation protocols used in their EDs changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (100%, n = 23, 95% CI 0.86-1.00).

Conclusions

This study provides a novel summary of changes to airway management practices in response to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Information from this study could help inform a consensus on safe and effective emergent intubation of persons with communicable respiratory infections in the future.
Parkinson’s disease tremor prediction using EEG data analysis-A preliminary and feasibility study
Authors: Farashi Sajjad , Sarihi Abdolrahman , Ramezani Mahdi , Shahidi Siamak , Mazdeh Mehrdokht
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Tremor is one of the hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease (PD) that does not respond effectively to conventional medications. In this regard, as a complementary solution, methods such as deep brain stimulation have been proposed. To apply the intervention with minimal side effects, it is necessary to predict tremor initiation. The purpose of the current study was to propose a novel methodology for predicting resting tremors using analysis of EEG time-series.

Methods

A modified algorithm for tremor onset detection from accelerometer data was proposed. Furthermore, a machine learning methodology for predicting PD hand tremors from EEG time-series was proposed. The most discriminative features extracted from EEG data based on statistical analyses and post-hoc tests were used to train the classifier for distinguishing pre-tremor conditions.

Results

Statistical analyses with post-hoc tests showed that features such as form factor and statistical features were the most discriminative features. Furthermore, limited numbers of EEG channels (F3, F7, P4, CP2, FC6, and C4) and EEG bands (Delta and Gamma) were sufficient for an accurate tremor prediction based on EEG data. Based on the selected feature set, a KNN classifier obtained the best pre-tremor prediction performance with an accuracy of 73.67%.

Conclusion

This feasibility study was the first attempt to show the predicting ability of EEG time-series for PD hand tremor prediction. Considering the limitations of this study, future research with longer data, and different brain dynamics are needed for clinical applications.
Associations between experience of stressful life events and cancer prevalence in China: results from the China Kadoorie Biobank study
Authors: Wang Meng , Gong Weiwei , Sun Dianjianyi , Pei Pei , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Yu Min
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies examining the relationships of stressful life events and cancer yielded inconsistent findings, while relevant evidence in mainland China is scarce. The current study sought to determine whether experience of stressful life events was associated with cancer prevalence in Chinese population.

Methods

We used cross-sectional data from the China Kadoorie Biobank study which that recruited 0.5 million Chinese adults aged 30 to 79 from 2004 to 2008. Logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for cancer associated with stressful life events reported at baseline.

Results

Among the 461,696 participants included in this analysis, 2,122 (0.46%) had self-reported cancer with the mean (SD) age was 57.12 (9.71) years. Compared to those without any stressful life event, participants who experienced 1 and 2 or more events had significantly higher odds of cancer, with the ORs of 1.80 (95% CI: 1.58–2.05) and 3.05 (2.18–4.28). For categories of work-, family-, and personal-related events, the OR of cancer was 1.48 (1.07–2.05), 2.06 (1.80–2.35), and 1.65 (1.17–2.33), respectively. Regarding the specific stressful life events, loss of income/living on debt, major conflict within family, death/major illness of other close family member, and major injury/traffic accident were significantly associated with increased odds of cancer, with the ORs of 2.64 (1.81–3.86), 1.73 (1.20–2.50), 2.36 (2.05–2.72), and 2.11 (1.43–3.13).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that experiences of cumulative and specific stressful life events were significantly associated with increased cancer prevalence in Chinese population.
Firearm-related suicides, homicides, and homicide-suicides involving security officers in two East African Countries: a press media review
Authors: Muwanguzi Moses , Kule Moses , Nuwamanya Simpson , Kaggwa Mark Mohan
Published: November 2023

Background

Firearm violence is a growing public health problem causing death globally. With easy accessibility to firearms, suicides, homicides, and homicide-suicides have increased among security officers, especially in developing countries affected by long-standing civil wars/political insurgencies. No study has explored firearm violence in East African countries. This study describes the press media reporting of suicides, homicides, and homicide-suicides among security officers in two East African countries (Uganda and Kenya).

Methods

Due to the absence of suicide databases among East African countries, the present study reviewed press media reports. We utilized content analysis of suicides, homicides, and homicide-suicides reports among security forces. Relevant media reports between January-2020 and May-2023 were searched. Using ANOVA and chi-square tests, we tested for statistical differences in characteristics between victims and perpetrators.

Results

Among the 56 perpetrated reports, most of them were homicides 44.64% (n = 25/56), 30.36% (n = 17/56) were homicide-suicides, and 25% (n = 14/56) were suicides. Perpetrators’ age ranged from 21 to 47 years, majority being males [53/56 (94.64%)]. Victims were 58, mostly Ugandans [41/58 (73.21%)] with a mean age of 33.5 ± 8.81 years. Among the three main outcomes, statistically significant difference existed by country (χ2 = 23.88, p < 0.001), and perpetrators’ age (F = 8.59, p = 0.005). There was a significant difference between perpetrators and the number of victims lost by age of victims (F = 10.37, p = 0.002). Among victims, type of security of perpetrator and citizenship of victims (χ2 = 24.18, p < 0.001) showed statistical difference with Ugandans having more victims to army officers while Kenyans to police officers. Brief incident descriptions pointed towards relationship dysfunctions, alcohol/substance abuse, intentional harm, and financial disagreements, as the potential causes. Only two perpetrators were reported to have mental health-related conditions.

Conclusion

This study shows that media reported firearms-related suicides, homicides, and homicide-suicides among security forces commonly involve males. Perpetrators in Uganda are mainly army officers while in Kenya the perpetrators are mostly police officers. Mental health conditions were not frequently reported among perpetrators. We recommend strengthening and enforcing gun regulation policies among security officers to curb this growing problem in these countries. Routine screening of mental health problems to enable early interventions is recommended among security officers.
Oculogyric crisis symptoms related to risperidone treatment: a case report
Authors: Lv Tao , Wu Liping , Li Longlong , Zhang Min , Tan Qingyu , Liu Ping
Published: November 2023

Background

Oculogyric crisis (OGC) is a rare focal dystonia of the ocular muscles that not only interferes with patients’ medication adherence but also negatively affects the course and prognosis of the primary disease. Early detection and treatment of OGC can improve patients’ medication adherence and quality of life.

Case presentation

This paper reports a case of a 19-year-old Asian female with a diagnosis of schizophrenia who was treated intermittently with atypical antipsychotics aripiprazole or risperidone for 2 years, with improvement of psychotic symptoms during the course of medication, and then developed double eye rolling and staring with irritability when treated with risperidone 4 mg/d or 6 mg/d. Then, we changed the medication to clozapine, and the patient’s psychotic symptoms were controlled and stable. The symptoms of double eye rolling and gaze disappeared.

Conclusion

Oculogyric crisis (OGC) is a rare focal dystonia of the oculogyric muscle. This case provides clinicians with a basis for the early recognition and management of oculogyric crisis during the use of atypical antipsychotics (risperidone).
Determinants of parental vaccine hesitancy in Canada: results from the 2017 Childhood National Immunization Coverage Survey
Authors: Chen Ruoke , Guay Mireille , Gilbert Nicolas L. , Dubé Eve , Witteman Holly O. , Hakim Hina
Published: November 2023

Background

In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated vaccine hesitancy as one of the ten leading threats to global health. Vaccine hesitancy exists when vaccination services are available and accessible, but vaccine uptake is lower than anticipated. It is often attributed to lack of trust in vaccine safety and effectiveness, or low level of concern about the risk of many vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to examine the sociodemographic factors associated with parental vaccine hesitancy and vaccine refusal in Canada using data from the 2017 Childhood National Immunization Coverage Survey (CNICS).

Method

The 2017 CNICS was a cross-sectional and nationally representative survey to estimate national vaccine uptake and to collect information about parents’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs (KAB) regarding vaccination. Using the KAB questions, parental vaccine hesitancy (i.e., parental hesitation, delay or refusal of at least one recommended vaccination) and refusal (i.e., unvaccinated children) by sociodemographic factors was estimated using weighted prevalence proportions. A multinomial logistic regression model was fitted to examine associations between parental vaccine hesitancy or refusal and sociodemographic factors among parents of two-year-old children in Canada. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of being vaccine-hesitant or vaccine-refusing versus being non-vaccine-hesitant were generated.

Results

Both unadjusted and adjusted logistic regressions models showed that parents with lower household income (aOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.5), and those with a higher number of children in the household (aOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4–3.5) had higher vaccine hesitancy. Conversely, lower vaccine hesitancy was observed among immigrant parents (aOR 0.4, 95% CI 0.3–0.6). In addition, lower household income (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 1.3–12.9), and higher number of children in the household (aOR 6.9, 95% CI 2.1–22.9) were significantly associated with parental vaccine refusal. Regional variations were also observed.

Conclusion

Several sociodemographic determinants are associated with parental vaccine hesitancy and refusal. The findings of the study could help public health officials and policymakers to develop and implement targeted interventions to improve childhood vaccination programs.
Determining the risk-factors for molecular clustering of drug-resistant tuberculosis in South Africa
Authors: Said Halima , Kachingwe Elizabeth , Gardee Yasmin , Bhyat Zaheda , Ratabane John , Erasmus Linda , Lebaka Tiisetso , van der Meulen Minty , Gwala Thabisile , Omar Shaheed , Ismail Farzana , Ismail Nazir
Published: November 2023

Background

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) epidemic is driven mainly by the effect of ongoing transmission. In high-burden settings such as South Africa (SA), considerable demographic and geographic heterogeneity in DR-TB transmission exists. Thus, a better understanding of risk-factors for clustering can help to prioritise resources to specifically targeted high-risk groups as well as areas that contribute disproportionately to transmission.

Methods

The study analyzed potential risk-factors for recent transmission in SA, using data collected from a sentinel molecular surveillance of DR-TB, by comparing demographic, clinical and epidemiologic characteristics with clustering and cluster sizes. A genotypic cluster was defined as two or more patients having identical patterns by the two genotyping methods used. Clustering was used as a proxy for recent transmission. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression were used.

Result

The study identified 277 clusters, with cluster size ranging between 2 and 259 cases. The majority (81.6%) of the clusters were small (2–5 cases) with few large (11–25 cases) and very large (≥ 26 cases) clusters identified mainly in Western Cape (WC), Eastern Cape (EC) and Mpumalanga (MP). In a multivariable model, patients in clusters including 11–25 and ≥ 26 individuals were more likely to be infected by Beijing family, have XDR-TB, living in Nelson Mandela Metro in EC or Umgungunglovo in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) provinces, and having history of imprisonment. Individuals belonging in a small genotypic cluster were more likely to infected with Rifampicin resistant TB (RR-TB) and more likely to reside in Frances Baard in Northern Cape (NC).

Conclusion

Sociodemographic, clinical and bacterial risk-factors influenced rate of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) genotypic clustering. Hence, high-risk groups and hotspot areas for clustering in EC, WC, KZN and MP should be prioritized for targeted intervention to prevent ongoing DR-TB transmission.