bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Ginger in management of nausea among patients receiving chemotherapy
Authors: Syed Zamin Abbas , Fahim Ammad , Mahpara Safdar  , Rafia Imtiaz
Published: September 2024

Objective: Cancer patients treated with chemotherapy often face variety of side effects, with nausea and vomiting being the most frequent. Ginger (Zingiber officinale), contains natural compounds that can speed up the metabolism and increase intestinal motility. It is traditionally used to treat gastrointestinal disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of ginger in management of nausea among patients receiving chemotherapy.
Methods: This crossover interventional study was conducted to evaluate the role of ginger in management of nausea among patients receiving chemotherapy. Study was carried out at chemotherapy daycare of Shifa International Hospital Islamabad, with a sample size of 90 patients, using non-probability convenient sampling. Patients undergoing chemotherapy were given the dose of ginger (550 mg twice a day) for five consecutive days. On the next chemo cycle the same patients were given the placebo capsules of same color and weight for two times a day for five days. Patients and attendants were contacted for five days and being asked about post-chemotherapy nausea. Nausea and vomiting were measured by Rhodes scale.
Results: Results showed that Rhodes score of patients taking Ginger capsules was significantly lower than those taking placebo (p-value < 0.05) in all the five days.
Conclusion: Ginger significantly managed the nausea among patients receiving chemotherapy. Its natural antiemetic properties provide a convenient and safe way to reduce the post-chemotherapy nausea and vomiting.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8739
How to cite this: Syed ZA, Fahim A, Safdar M, Imtiaz R. Role of Ginger in management of nausea among patients receiving chemotherapy. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8739
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Dexmedetomidine leads to the amelioration of stress response to surgery
Authors: Ajmal Khalida , Waheed Akbar , Farooqi Rashada , Mansoor Qaisar
Published: September 2024

Objectives: To determine the impact of intravenous Dexmedetomidine (Dex) administered perioperatively on stress response markers in patients undergoing ENT surgeries.
Methods: This randomized interventional study was conducted at POFs Hospital and NUMS affiliated WMC, Wah Cantt, in collaboration with IIMC Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from October 2021 to April 2022. One hundred patients aged between 15-60 years, after satisfying the inclusion standards were randomly divided into two groups C and D. Group-C (n=50) received normal saline in addition to the standard anesthesia protocol. The intervention Group-D (n=50) was administered 1µg/kg dexmedetomidine hydrochloride intravenously over 10 minutes just before the induction followed 0.5μg/kg/hr as maintenance dose till the end of surgery. Serum inflammatory biomarkers (interleukins-6, TNF-α and cortisol) were measured in blood samples in both groups, taken at 0 (T0), 30 minutes(T1), and two hours (T2) time intervals and analyzed by using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data was statistically analyzed using SPSS 23.
Results: The patients receiving Dex showed marked decrease in serum levels of cortisol, TNF- α and interleukins-6, from 139.73 to10.18, 99.51 to 0.96 and 85.09 to 0.96 respectively. Comparison between C and D groups revealed significant differences (p≤0.05) in these serum biomarkers.
Conclusions: In the present study, intravenous Dex suppressed the intraoperative rise in levels of cytokine secretion and enhanced smooth recovery with no incidence of nausea and vomiting. These effects could be attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of dexmedetomidine.
Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials reference: IRCT20230824059251N1.
Abbreviation:ENT: Ear, Nose and Throat, BMI: Body Mass Index, MAC: Monitored Cared Anesthesia, ASA: American Society of Anesthesiologists, SPSS: Statistical Package for Social Sciences, SD: Standard Deviation, PONV: Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting, OT: Operation Theater, POFs: Pakistan Ordinance Factories, WMC: Wah Medical College, IIMC: Islamic International Medical College, NUMS: National University of Medical Sciences.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8792
How to cite this: Ajmal K, Waheed A, Farooqi R, Mansoor Q. Dexmedetomidine leads to the amelioration of stress response to surgery. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8792
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Echocardiographic evaluation of myocardial dysfunction in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia
Authors: Rasheed Javaria , Khalid Muhammad , Nawaz Iram , Maryam Barera
Published: September 2024

Background & Objective: One third of the neonatal deaths worldwide are attributed to perinatal asphyxia. We aimed to determine the prevalence and determinants of cardiac dysfunction, through echocardiographic evaluation, in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care setting over a period of six months from 1st January 2021 to 30th June 2021. Term neonates, weighing ≥ 2500 grams, born with Apgar score < 7 and admitted within 48-hours of life were consecutively enrolled. Using Levene classification neonates were grouped into moderate and severe perinatal asphyxia. All neonates underwent transthoracic echocardiographic evaluation after 24-hours of stabilization and within 72-hours of life. Descriptive statistics are calculated, and logistic regression analysis is done to determine the risk factors of myocardial dysfunction.
Results: Among 166 neonates, 53% (n=88) were males, mean gestational age was 38.1 ± 0.89 weeks. Moderate asphyxia was present in 121 (72.9%). Most common echocardiographic finding was pulmonary hypertension in 50% followed by patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in 37.2% and mitral regurgitation in 6.6%. Myocardial dysfunction was detected in 28.9% of the neonates. Three independent determinants of myocardial dysfunction were severe asphyxia [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 5.01, 95% CI 2.2-11.4; p-value <0.001], having patent ductus arteriosus (aOR 5.11, 95% CI 2.2-11.8; p-value < 0.001) and delivery through cesarean section (aOR 2.65, 95% CI 1.2-5.9; p-value 0.02).
Conclusions: Myocardial dysfunction among neonates with perinatal asphyxia is common and severity of asphyxia, mode of delivery and presence of patent ductus arteriosus are important determinants.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9501
How to cite this: Rasheed J, Khalid M, Nawaz I, Maryam B. Echocardiographic evaluation of myocardial dysfunction in term neonates with perinatal asphyxia. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9501
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of the dose, timing, and route of administration of mesenchymal stem cells on their regenerative capacity after myocardial infarction: A systematic review
Authors: Tello  Vera Stalin , Failoc Rojas Virgilio Efraín , León Trujillo Francisco James
Published: September 2024

Background The global rise in cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) poses a significant health challenge, which is why adult stem cells have gained great importance in recent years, due to their potential to promote the regeneration of the flowcardiac tissue, among which multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) stand out, thanks to their clinical usefulness. Objectives To evaluate the effect of the dose, timing, and route of administration of MSCs on their regenerative capacity after MI. Methods We searched for randomized clinical trials and experimental studies published up to April 25, 2024, in Medline (PubMed) and Scopus. Results Nine clinical studies were included in the qualitative assessment. The main routes of application were coronary, intramyocardially, epicardial topical and systemic venous perfusion, which could have clinical effectiveness with doses of 1x106 MSC/Kg,1 to 3 x 106, 4x106 and those greater than 0.5x106, respectively. The median number of viable cells administered was 2.4x106 (IQR: 1.6-2.4) in the PCI group versus 1.6x106 in the RCVI group (p=0.167). Median ex vivo retention was 2.55% in the RCVI group, 30 days after AMI, and 39.40% in the PCI group. At 4 and 12 months of follow-up, a better left ventricular end-to-end (LVEF) was observed in the group treated with ADSCs, at 4 (51.8% ±5.4% vs. 35.5% ±1.9%) and 8 weeks (52.1%± 3.4% versus 34.2% ±4.7%, p = 0.048). Conclusions The dosing, timing of administration, and routes of administration were important factors to assess the efficacy of the MSC.
The quality of life in Thai senior table tennis players
Authors: To-aj Oam , Krajangkantamatr Sornpravate , Saenkla Pennapa , Putthasri Weerasak , Chanbanchong Navaporn , Bumrungpanictarworn Apithai
Published: September 2024

Background Table tennis presented a unique and accessible sport for people of all ages, particularly seniors compared to other sports. Methods This study utilized a quantitative with 136 Table tennis players those who registered for attending in the Thailand Master Table tennis Championships 2024 which hosted in January 2024 at Chiangmai. The questionnaire based on the measurement quality of life, WHOQOL Thai version, and analyzed using Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation. Results Pearson correlation coefficients between the scores of the quality of life in four dimensions and the overall score revealed significant correlations (p < 0.01) with all dimensions, including physical health, psychological health, social relationships, and environmental health. Conclusions Playing Table tennis for senior in the tournament level helped to improve the quality of life in all domains.
Role, function, and expectations of research funding committees: Perspectives from committee members
Authors: Blatch-Jones Amanda , Boxall Cherish , Meadmore Katie
Published: September 2024

Research funding committees play an integral role in the research funding process, consisting of a range of skills, knowledge, and expertise (e.g., professional, and public contributors). Although there is some evidence that has explored the efficiency and effectiveness of funding committees in terms of the funding process, there is a lack of published evidence about the purpose, role, and function of funding committees, from the perspective of committee members. A subset of survey data from a cohort of six National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) research programmes, exploring the purpose of a funding committee, and the expectations and role of a funding committee member between October 2020 to December 2021. All committee members were eligible to participate in the survey. Using an inductive approach, 50 completed responses (22.5% response rate) were analysed, focusing on the role of a funding committee member and the functions of a funding committee. Participants highlighted seven key areas for the purpose of a funding committee: prioritising and recommending what research to fund (n=36) and assessment of quality (n=24) being the most common responses. Four areas were considered important to the expectations and role of funding committee members, with reviewing, critically appraising, and discussing applications (n=44); and being fair, objective, and unbiased (n=27) being the most common responses. The findings offer a unique insight into committee members’ expectations about the role, purpose and function of a funding committee and their contribution to the funding recommendation process. There was high agreement that the purpose and role of committees and their members was to offer expert advice to make fair, impartial decisions on which research should be prioritised. Exploring the purpose, role, and function of funding committees has relevance and importance for funding organisations seeking to enhance and optimise the decision-making practice of funding committees.
Communication Quality and the Cost of Language: Evidence from Stack Overflow
Authors: Bregolin Jacopo
Published: September 2024

The transmission of information is crucial for productivity and growth. However, language differences may limit its effectiveness. This is particularly relevant for knowledge platforms that aim to be global, given the cultural diversity of the pool of users. In this paper, I empirically investigate how the exogenous cost of language affects communication quality and the trade-offs faced by knowledge platforms in implementing their website in multiple languages. I exploit the staggered introduction of websites for languages other than English on a question-and-answer platform to demonstrate two main facts. First, nonnative English speakers who contribute in English increase their answers’ quality once able to use their native language, and their answers are more likely to solve the questioner’s problem. The native-language answers drive the effect, which is larger when the question quality is higher and the incentives are stronger. Second, users who participate in their native language but not in English contribute lower-quality answers compared with those who contribute in English. This suggests that lower language barriers allow users with less expertise in the subject to participate. These results show that the platform should adopt multiple languages to maximise the quality of the information collected, although doing so may also result in an inflow of low-quality content from new users.

This paper was accepted by Joshua Gans, business strategy.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01333 .
Worker Empowerment and Subjective Evaluation: On Building an Effective Conflict Culture
Authors: MacLeod W. Bentley , Lara Victoria Valle , Zehnder Christian
Published: September 2024

Although conflicts typically lead to a waste of resources, organizations may still benefit from a corporate culture that tolerates or even encourages conflicts. The reason is that coordinated conflicts may help to enforce norms and foster cooperation. In this paper, we report results of a series of laboratory experiments designed to explore whether and under what conditions an efficiency-enhancing conflict culture can emerge. Using a principal-agent setup with subjective performance evaluation, we show that establishing a functional conflict culture is a delicate matter. If conflicts are encouraged in a careless hands-off manner, the destructive side of conflicts is likely to dominate. To be successful, a conflict culture requires a careful management of fairness norms. In our experiment, we find that conflicts have positive net effects on efficiency only if an explicit code of conduct is established and conflicts are institutionalized through a grievance process. Thus, providing workers with more power may be a necessary but not sufficient condition for improving productivity when performance evaluations are subjective.

This paper was accepted by Axel Ockenfels, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Funding: We gratefully acknowledge financial support from the Swiss National Science Foundation [Grant 100018_152903]. W. Bentley MacLeod thanks Princeton University for support via a faculty research grant.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.03085 .
The Allocation of Talent and Financial Development, 1897 to 1936
Authors: Lin Chen , Ma Chicheng , Sun Yuchen , Xu Yuchen
Published: September 2024

We examine how the supply of talent affected financial development based on an experiment that abruptly changed the allocation of talent in historical China. Under the meritocratic civil examination system, government service was the main employment for the Chinese intellectuals. The abolition of this system in 1905 reduced the status and wealth attached to government service, which led the intellectuals to turn to modern banking as a high-status sector of employment. We find that regions where there were more candidates for the civil examination produced more financial professionals after 1905, which translated to a greater development of modern banking.

This paper was accepted by Lin William Cong, finance.

Funding: C. Lin and C. Ma acknowledge the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong [Grant AoE/B-704/22-R], Y. Sun acknowledges the Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 72203037] and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities in UIBE [Grant 20QD14; CXTD12-01], and Y. Xu acknowledges the Young Scientists Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 72203013] for financial support.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.00456 .
Kinks as Goals: Accelerating Commissions and the Performance of Sales Teams
Authors: Kuhn Peter , Yu Lizi
Published: September 2024

Piecewise-linear reward schemes are very common in workplaces; by definition, they divide the set of possible performance levels into disjoint intervals that could have psychological value to workers. When these schemes take the form of lump-sum bonuses, any psychological rewards associated with attaining a performance interval are hard to distinguish from material ones because both material and psychological incentives predict bunching at the output needed to earn the bonus. To disentangle these effects, this paper studies a common but understudied class of piecewise-linear pay—accelerators—in which the mechanisms’ predictions conflict. Using the distributions of daily sales in 103 small retail teams, we find that daily sales bunch at accelerators, which is inconsistent with models in which only material rewards matter. Combining simple theoretical models, institutional evidence, and heterogeneity analyses, we argue that this unexpected bunching results from teams’ decisions to use the convenient, salient kink points as shared goals, which yield symbolic utility to their members when the points are attained.

This paper was accepted by Lamar Pierce, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01661 .
NARRATIVAS INDÍGENAS SOBRE O FIM E O SONHO DE FUTUROS POSSÍVEIS EM THE MARROW THIEVES (2017), DE CHERIE DIMALINE
Authors: Da Cunha Rubelise
Published: September 2024

A ideia de "fim de mundo" ou "apocalipse", advinda inicialmente do pensamento judaico-cristão e das narrativas bíblicas, aponta para uma ideia de futuro a partir de uma linearidade temporal eurocêntrica. Neste artigo, investigamos, a partir de uma postura de escuta de outros saberes à qual nos instiga Eduardo Viveiros de Castro em Metafísicas canibais (2018), como as epistemologias dos povos originários expressas nas Literaturas Indígenas podem nos oferecer perspectivas que desloquem nosso eixo espaço temporal e transcendam a lógica racional eurocêntrica. Abordamos discussões sobre o fim do mundo por autores indígenas como Ailton Krenak, Davi Kopenawa, Daniel Munduruku e Drew Hayden Taylor a fim de analisar o romance canadense The marrow thieves (2017), da autora Métis Cherie Dimaline. O romance indigeniza gêneros como a ficção pós-apocalíptica e a cli-fi ao incorporar formas tradicionais de construção de conhecimento, como o sonho e a contação de histórias, em defesa de futuros possíveis para os povos indígenas e o planeta.
FICÇÕES DA ZONA DE SACRIFÍCIO
Authors: Correa da Silva de Araujo André , Petrucci Maria
Published: September 2024

O texto discute o conto “Sob a água negra”, de Mariana Enriquez, a partir da noção de zona de sacrifício. Inicialmente, se caracteriza as zonas periféricas da América Latina como uma espacialidade privilegiada para histórias de horror, para depois abordar as dinâmicas metafísicas da prática sacrificial na sua relação específica com o Antropoceno. Dessa forma, argumenta-se que o conto de Enriquez se caracteriza como crítica que inverte estruturas tradicionais do horror para produzir uma espécie de teogonia terrestre e periférica, em contradição com a perspectiva racionalizante e desencantada própria da modernidade.
EL TIEMPO Y LO HUMANO DESPUÉS DEL FIN. A PROPÓSITO DE FRÍO DE RAFAEL PINEDO Y MANIGUA DE CARLOS RÍOS
Authors: Naranjo Noreña Isabel Cristina
Published: September 2024

El presente artículo se propone abordar el diálogo entre dos imágenes de futuro nacidas en el seno de la literatura argentina reciente: la primera de ellas es Frío, una novela escrita por Rafael Pinedo en el año 2004 y publicada después de la muerte de su autor y la segunda es Manigua, primera novela de Carlos Ríos publicada en 2009. El análisis plantea dos perspectivas: una que enfatiza en una nueva percepción del tiempo determinada por el clima y otra que se concentra en una nueva concepción de lo humano a partir de su relación con lo animal impugnando la vieja división entre Naturaleza y Cultura.
APRESENTAÇÃO
Authors: Bellas João Pedro , Pereira Penteado Marina , López Rico Natalia
Published: September 2024

Apresentação do número 24 - "A literatura no fim dos tempos: poéticas negativas do Antropoceno"
A qualitative study of research participation for parents from minority ethnic groups in the UK
Authors: Baldwin Sharin , Peters Angelyna , Loney Dana
Published: September 2024

Background/Aims

Under-representation of pregnant women, their partners and parents from minority ethnic backgrounds has been reported in research involving the perinatal period. This study's aim was to explore the experiences of parents from minority ethnic groups who participated in research during the perinatal period, focusing on barriers and facilitators to participation.

Methods

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams by all three researchers with a purposive sample of 16 parents. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Seven overarching themes were identified: motivating factors; unique contributions; language, understanding and access; cultural values, beliefs and practices; lack of time and other commitments; facilitators for participation; and experience of the current study.

Conclusions

Understanding motivation for participation is essential to developing recruitment strategies that promote involvement of parents from minority ethnic backgrounds. A clear understanding of research goals and perceived benefits, and maximising access to studies, is likely to result in improved recruitment.

Implications for practice

Ways to encourage research participation from parents in minority ethnic groups include using a range of advertising techniques and venues, offering a choice of time and place for activities and alternative methods of data collection, and disseminating information on available studies in early pregnancy.
Pressure injury incidence measurement as a quality improvement strategy: national trends in Switzerland
Authors: Thomann Silvia , Bernet Niklaus S
Published: September 2024

Objective:

This study sought to determine the risk-adjusted (controlled for patient characteristics) trend in pressure injury (PI) incidence in Switzerland.

Method:

A secondary data analysis was conducted. The data originated from the national PI quality measurement based on a multicentre cross-sectional design with repeated annual measurements. Descriptive statistics, a Cochran–Armitage trend test and logistic (multilevel) regression modelling were applied.

Results:

The analysis sample comprised 123,715 patients from 230 hospitals over 10 survey years (2011–2019 and 2022). The incidence of descriptive PI varied in Switzerland between 3.7% and 5.6% over the survey years. No linear trend could be found when patient characteristics were not considered. A non-linear trend was detected when controlling for patient characteristics and the time effect (repeated measurement). This was also reflected in the plotted risk-adjusted incidence, which revealed a decrease followed by a levelling off. When only considering the incidence of PIs rated category 2 and higher, there was also a non-linear decreasing trend when controlling for patient characteristics and time effects. If the incidence per survey year were estimated on the basis of patient characteristics, an increase in the incidence would have been expected.

Conclusion:

Although patients' risk of developing a PI increased between 2011–2022, the incidence of PIs in Switzerland first decreased and then levelled off. The results indicated that care quality in Swiss hospitals has improved regarding PIs. Nevertheless, in view of demographic trends and increasing staff shortages, it is important to continue to monitor PI incidence and to invest in PI prevention.
Impact of continuous topical oxygen therapy on biofilm gene expression in a porcine tissue model
Authors: Ball Christopher , Jones Hannah , Thomas Hannah , Woodmansey Emma , Cole Windy , Schultz Gregory
Published: September 2024

Objective:

The effect of continuous topical oxygen therapy (cTOT) on Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm gene transcription profiles following inoculation onto porcine skin, using a customised molecular assay was determined.

Method:

Sterilised porcine skin explants were inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa in triplicate: 0 hours as negative control; 24 hours cTOT device on; 24 hours cTOT device off. The oxygen delivery system of the cTOT device was applied to the inoculated tissue and covered with a semi-occlusive dressing. All samples were incubated at 37±2°C for 24 hours, with the 0 hours negative control inoculated porcine skin samples recovered immediately. Planktonic suspensions and porcine skin biopsy samples were taken at 0 hours and 24 hours. Samples were processed and quantifiably assessed using gene specific reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays for a panel of eight Pseudomonas aeruginosa genes (16S, pelA, pslA, rsaL, pcrV, pscQ, acpP, cbrA) associated with biofilm formation, quorum sensing, protein secretion/translocation and metabolism.

Results:

Transcriptional upregulation of pelA, pcrV and acpP, responsible for intracellular adhesion, needletip protein production for type-3 secretion systems and fatty acid synthesis during proliferation, respectively, was observed when the cTOT device was switched on compared to when the device was switched off. Data suggest increased metabolic activity within bacterial cells following cTOT treatment.

Conclusion:

cTOT is an adjunctive therapy that supports faster healing and pain reduction in non-healing hypoxic wounds. Oxygen has previously been shown to increase susceptibility of biofilms to antibiotics through enhancing metabolism. Observed gene expression changes highlighted the impact of cTOT on biofilms, potentially influencing antimicrobial treatment success in wounds. Further in vitro and clinical investigations are warranted.
Secondary lymphoedema – causes, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: September 2024

This chronic condition is potentially distressing for patients. Margaret Perry explains what nurses working in primary care need to know about diagnosis and management of this condition.

Lymphoedema is a long-term chronic disease which can have a devastating effect on the affected persons quality of life. The condition can be classified as primary or secondary, the latter being the commonest type. This article will therefore focus on secondary lymphoedema and will look at causes, diagnosis, treatment and complications, with the hope that the information given will give nurses and non-medical prescribers more confidence in assessing patients presenting with symptoms of this unpleasant disease.
A qualitative study to explore the knowledge and perceptions of vitamin D deficiency in women of Bengali origin living in the UK
Authors: Belfield Penelope , Llahana Sofia
Published: September 2024

A study into the determinants influencing Vitamin D supplementation among women of Bengali descent in the UK

Background:

The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, particularly among South Asian women residing in temperate climates such as the United Kingdom. Contributory factors encompass dietary habits and conservative dressing practices.

Aims:

This study aims to delineate the knowledge, perceptions, and determinants influencing Vitamin D supplementation among women of Bengali descent in the UK.

Methods:

The study employed semi-structured interviews with women of Bengali origin at a general practice in London. A deductive thematic analysis was conducted utilizing the COM-B model to identify behavioural determinants. The study was approved by the Health Research Authority.

Findings:

Key determinants to behaviours associated with Vitamin D supplementation encompassed awareness, cultural practices, healthcare advice, and personal convictions. Notwithstanding awareness of its criticality, actual intake was minimal due to factors like forgetfulness, cultural norms, and perceptions regarding the necessity of supplementation.

Conclusion:

Although there is an overarching recognition of the significance of Vitamin D, adherence to supplementation regimens remains erratic. This study underscores the imperative for tailored health interventions that account for these elements to enhance Vitamin D supplementation among high-risk populations.
A decade-long journey from novice to manager in general practice
Authors: Butler Sarah
Published: September 2024

Sarah Butler details how nurses can rise from their first positions into leadership roles, and how they can mentor others on the same journey
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Authors: Winter George
Published: September 2024

George Winter provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to practice nurses. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
SUSTAINABLE FASHION DESIGN WITH GAZENNE WOVEN FABRIC THE CULTURAL HERITAGE OF KEMALIYE
Authors: Bayburtlu Çimen , Horasan Neşe
Published: September 2024

This study explores garment design applications that enhance the sustainability of Gazenne fabric. The primary objective is to promote this fabric as a tangible cultural asset, integrating it with sustainable and slow fashion movements to embed it in daily life. The featured collection, “Boomerang,” embodies the theme of sustainability and caters to women who value longevity and versatility in their wardrobe. The collection showcases designs characterized by recyclable, sustainable, and interchangeable elements. It aims to create a nexus between historical and futuristic fashion by utilizing “Gazenne Weaving Fabric,” indigenous to the Kemaliye district of Erzincan. This fabric, which received its geographical indication in 2013, has revitalized traditional weaving techniques and provided new employment opportunities. A central goal of this research is to rejuvenate Gazenne weaving—an endangered intangible cultural heritage—and repurpose it for contemporary apparel. Accordingly, the collection comprises garments designed for durability and versatility, facilitating various combinations with other clothing pieces. The research methodology includes a collection design of ten outfits conceptualized under the “Sustainability” theme, supported by a literature review and an experimental design approach. Two selected garments from this collection exemplify the practical application of sustainable fashion principles, emphasizing the use of Gazenne woven fabric. Ultimately, this study underscores the potential positive impacts on sustainable fashion, cultural heritage preservation, and local economic development. These findings may inspire similar initiatives and encourage the adoption of more sustainable, responsible practices in the fashion industry.
Liquid Lenses for Aerospace Beam Steering and Communications: MOSAIC
Authors: Kacker Shreeyam , Cahoy Kerri
Published: September 2024

Laser communications (lasercom) can enable more efficient and higher bandwidth communications than conventional radio frequency (RF) systems, but requires more sophisticated pointing and tracking (PAT) systems to acquire and maintain links. Liquid lens arrays can provide compact, nonmechanical beam steering as an alternative to fast-steering mirrors and mechanical gimbals. An array of two liquid lenses offset in perpendicular axes along with a third on-axis lens in the array are used for beam steering and divergence control, respectively. The Miniature Optical Steered Antenna for Intersatellite Communications (MOSAIC) project applies liquid lens technology to create a transceiver for laser communications on spacecraft to enable wide field-of-view communications. This work provides analytical models of beam steering in order to inform subsystem sizing, and uses simulation studies along with previous work on space environment evaluation of liquid lenses to produce representative link budgets for a liquid lens based lasercom transceiver. A 25 Mbps link with 4 W transmit power at 1550 nm (optical C band) and 16-ary pulse position modulation (16-PPM) can be maintained up to 300 km separation with 3 dB margin, using larger pressure-actuated liquid lenses from Optotune arranged for hemispherical steering.
An exploration of the emotional response among nurses in Bermuda, during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Moore Adam , Leena Navami
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This paper utilizes an ontological approach to conduct a qualitative literature review in order to investigate the emotional impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on nurses internationally. After identifying common themes in the literature review, primary research is conducted to investigate the emotional impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on nurses working in Bermuda´s only acute healthcare facility.

Methods

The literature review used the FRAMEWORK approach (Richie and Spencer, 1994, as cited in Hackett et al. (2018) to select a total of 16 papers for review, each of them qualitative primary research, aside from one paper reviewing international literature. Within the second part of this paper, investigating the experience of nurses in Bermuda, a grounded theory approach was utilised to collect primary data. Convenience sampling was used to recruit subjects to participate in one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Data saturation was achieved after 9 interviews. The FRAMEWORK method was utilised to analyse the interview transcripts, and identify, organise and collate themes.

Results

The literature review highlights that nurses have strong emotional responses to caring for patients during the Covid-19 pandemic. Specific responses include: higher stress levels at work due to higher, more challenging workload, and a reliance on clinical leaders to assuage this stress. Stigma experienced outside of work lead to feelings of anxiety and isolation. Despite this, there was a common theme that nurses felt a satisfaction within their role to ´play their part´ in the pandemic. The primary research conducted in Bermuda demonstrates that there was an initial fear of Covid-19, receding as the pandemic developed. Much anxiety was due to a perceived lack of knowledge about the disease, lack of a coherent strategy, and inadequate equipment to protect staff, and properly care for patients. An increased level of cooperation amongst staff, and mutual support amongst nurses was noted, as was social stigma leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety. Social interactions and holistic activities were identified as primary resources to alleviate stress and uncertainty.

Conclusions

Nurses in Bermuda elicited many of the same emotional responses as their international colleagues, as a result of caring for patients during the pandemic. These manifested as a result of higher, more challenging workload, and uncertainty about preparedness plan and quickly changing situations within the working environment. The results from this study can help formulate changes in policy to ensure smoother transitions to pandemic preparedness in the future.
Revisiting Louis Fry’s spiritual leadership model in confessional school teachers using structural equation modeling (SEM)
Authors: Martinez-Soto Lorena , Ontiveros Ramírez Flor , Toro Jaramillo Iván Dario , Moreno-Leyva Nelly Rosario
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the construct validity of the spiritual leadership model proposed by (Fry et al. 2005). The analysis focused on examining the relationships proposed by the model through CFA and structural equation modeling (SEM). A confirmatory factor analysis indicated the SL scale provides acceptable reliability and convergent validity indexes; however, it did not achieve discriminant validity. Model convergence was obtained using MLR (Robust Maximum Likelihood) methods. However, when the robustness indices were analyzed, it was found that some obtained acceptable results and others were deficient, so that an acceptable model fit was not achieved. Regarding the relationship between the hypotheses, it was found that they were significant in all cases except for the reciprocal relationship between vision and altruistic love. In light of this finding, alternative models were developed that also failed to yield significant results. The theoretical and methodological discussion focuses on the relationships of Fry’s model and addresses the need to review its causal nature, considering recursive and non-recursive aspects.
Epidemiology and genetic characterization of influenza viruses circulating in Bhutan in 2022
Authors: Dorji Kunzang , Klungthong Chonticha , Dorji Tshering , Wangchuk Tandin , Yuden Pema , Pelki Tshering , Ghishing Tara Devi , Gyemiry Govinda , Gyeltshen Sonam , Chinnawirotpisan Piyawan , Manasatienkij Wudtichai , Wangchuk Sonam , Farmer Aaron
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Influenza (Flu) causes considerable morbidity and mortality globally, and in Bhutan, Flu viruses are a leading cause of acute respiratory infection and cause outbreaks during Flu seasons. In this study, we aim to analyze the epidemiology and the genetic characterization of Flu viruses circulated in Bhutan in 2022.

Method

Respiratory specimens were collected from patients who meet the case definition for influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) from sentinel sites. Specimens were tested for Flu and SARS-CoV-2 viruses by RT-PCR using the Multiplex Assay. Selected positive specimens were utilized for Flu viral genome sequencing by next-generation sequencing. Descriptive analysis was performed on patient demographics to see the proportion of Flu-associated ILI and SARI. All data were analyzed using Epi Info7 and QGIS 3.16 software.

Result

A weekly average of 16.2 ILI cases per 1000 outpatient visits and 18 SARI cases per 1000 admitted cases were reported in 2022. The median age among ILI was 12 years (IQR: 5–28) and SARI was 6.2 (IQR: 2.5–15) years. Flu A(H3N2) (70.2%) subtype was the most predominant circulating strain. Flu A(H1N1)pdm09 and Flu B viruses belonged to subclades that were mismatched to the vaccine strains recommended for the 2021–2022 season but matched the vaccine strain for the 2022–2023 season with vaccine efficacy 85.14% and 88.07% respectively. Flu A(H3N2) virus belonged to two subclades which differed from the vaccine strains recommended in both the 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons with vaccine efficacy 68.28%.

Conclusion

Flu virus positivity rates were substantially elevated during the Flu season in 2022 compared to 2021. Flu A(H3N2) subtype was the most predominant circulating strain in the country and globally. Genetic characterization of the Flu viruses in Bhutan showed a close relatedness of high vaccine efficacy with the vaccine strain that WHO recommended for the 2022–23 season.
Identification of antibody targets associated with lower HIV viral load and viremic control
Authors: Grant-McAuley Wendy , Morgenlander William R. , Ruczinski Ingo , Kammers Kai , Laeyendecker Oliver , Hudelson Sarah E. , Thakar Manjusha , Piwowar-Manning Estelle , Clarke William , Breaud Autumn , Ayles Helen , Bock Peter , Moore Ayana , Kosloff Barry , Shanaube Kwame , Meehan Sue-Ann , van Deventer Anneen , Fidler Sarah , Hayes Richard , Larman H. Benjamin , Eshleman Susan H. ,   for the HPTN 071 (PopART) Study Team
Published: September 2024

Background

High HIV viral loads (VL) are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and on-going transmission. HIV controllers maintain low VLs in the absence of antiretroviral therapy (ART). We previously used a massively multiplexed antibody profiling assay (VirScan) to compare antibody profiles in HIV controllers and persons living with HIV (PWH) who were virally suppressed on ART. In this report, we used VirScan to evaluate whether antibody reactivity to specific HIV targets and broad reactivity across the HIV genome was associated with VL and controller status 1–2 years after infection.

Methods

Samples were obtained from participants who acquired HIV infection in a community-randomized trial in Africa that evaluated an integrated strategy for HIV prevention (HPTN 071 PopART). Controller status was determined using VL and antiretroviral (ARV) drug data obtained at the seroconversion visit and 1 year later. Viremic controllers had VLs <2,000 copies/mL at both visits; non-controllers had VLs >2,000 copies/mL at both visits. Both groups had no ARV drugs detected at either visit. VirScan testing was performed at the second HIV-positive visit (1–2 years after HIV infection).

Results

The study cohort included 13 viremic controllers and 64 non-controllers. We identified ten clusters of homologous peptides that had high levels of antibody reactivity (three in gag, three in env, two in integrase, one in protease, and one in vpu). Reactivity to 43 peptides (eight unique epitopes) in six of these clusters was associated with lower VL; reactivity to six of the eight epitopes was associated with HIV controller status. Higher aggregate antibody reactivity across the eight epitopes (more epitopes targeted, higher mean reactivity across all epitopes) and across the HIV genome was also associated with lower VL and controller status.

Conclusions

We identified HIV antibody targets associated with lower VL and HIV controller status 1–2 years after infection. Robust aggregate responses to these targets and broad antibody reactivity across the HIV genome were also associated with lower VL and controller status. These findings provide novel insights into the relationship between humoral immunity and viral containment that could help inform the design of antibody-based approaches for reducing HIV VL.
Health care providers`attitude and associated factors to safe abortion in Ethiopia, 2023: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bante Simachew Animen , Balcha Wondu Feyisa , Chekole Fentahun Alemnew , Kassahun Eden Asmare , Getu Alemwork Abie , Awoke Amlaku Mulat , Tariku Mengistie Kassahun , Zerihun Endalamaw Erkie
Published: September 2024

Background

In sub-Saharan Africa, the number of maternal deaths due to unsafe abortions has been gradually rising. In Ethiopia, unplanned pregnancies contribute to 25% of births, accounting for 6%–9% of the maternal deaths resulting from unsafe abortions. Despite several disjointed cross-sectional studies that have been carried out in the past, there is no comprehensive data on the attitudes of healthcare practitioners and other related aspects regarding safe abortion in Ethiopia. This study attempted to measure pooled health care providers’ attitudes and determinants of safe abortion in Ethiopia.

Methods

African Journals Online, Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, Science Direct, Hinari, and Google Scholar were the databases that were accessed. The studies were evaluated critically by using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal methods. The study followed the recommendations set forth by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Data were extracted in an Excel spreadsheet and imported to STATA versions 17 software for meta-analysis. The random- effects model was used to pooled the health care providers’ attitudes toward safe abortion. Heterogeneity between studies was evaluated using the Cochrane Q-test and I2 statistics (I squared statistics). To evaluate publication bias, egger’s tests and funnel plots were employed. Forest plot was used to present the odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval.

Results

In this review and meta-analysis, a total of eight papers with a 2,826 sample size were considered. Overall, 65.49% of Ethiopian health care professionals had a positive attitude towards safe abortion (95%CI: 49.64, 81.34; I2 = 99.20%, P = 0.000). Knowledge of the abortion law (OR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.06, 3.43), being a male provider (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.23, 2.54), receiving training on abortion (OR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.17, 4.65), working as a midwife (OR = 3.029, 95% CI: 1.605, 4.453) and practicing abortion procedures (OR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.32, 3.78) were positively associated with the attitudes of the providers regarding safe abortion in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

In Ethiopia, there was a low pooled prevalence of positive attitude towards safe abortion. Safe abortion services in Ethiopia are more likely to be viewed favorably by health care professionals who have received abortion service training and are familiar with abortion laws. As a result, it is imperative that all healthcare facilities and other relevant parties ensure that health professionals receive training on safe abortion services and are aware of Ethiopia’s abortion laws.
How social media exposure constructs social confidence: An empirical study on impact, mechanisms, and multilateral relationships
Authors: Liu Yani , Hu Kang
Published: September 2024

Social confidence functions as a vital spiritual force in fostering the positive and healthy evolution of society. This paper explores how social media exposure contributes to the construction of social confidence within the framework of Media-system Dependency Theory. The research unveils the following key findings: (1) Social media exposure positively facilitates social confidence; (2) Group efficacy and group cohesion, perceived as manifestations of cognitive divergence between "efficacy" and "collective" within collective efficacy, both serve as mediating mechanisms influencing the impact of social media exposure on social confidence. The Channel Testing of Causality confirms that group cohesion plays a significantly more crucial role as a pathway compared to group efficacy; (3) The differentiated impact of social media exposure, encompassing Tencent WeChat and Sina Weibo, materializes in distinct components of social confidence and follows different influence pathways.