bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autism Knowledge, Awareness, Misinformation and Stigma: Mixed-Methods Study
Authors:   , Pampapura Madali Nayana
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to analyze the progression of autism information over time and investigate the relationships among various factors such as autism knowledge, awareness, stigma, misinformation, cultural beliefs, and social norms. Utilizing the knowledge-attitude-behavior (KAB) model, a conceptual framework was devised to examine the connections between these variables. Employing a mixed-method approach comprising of systematic literature review and survey, the study initially examined articles spanning twenty-two years to track the progression of autism knowledge, awareness, and stigma. Subsequently, a survey was conducted to assess the current understanding of autism among individuals on the spectrum and their families as well as to evaluate the impact of different autism variables. The systematic literature review indicated an overall increase in autism knowledge and awareness, although it revealed disparities in certain ethnicities and areas such as genetic testing. Despite advancements, stigma was found to persist. Survey findings validated these observations, emphasizing the necessity for heightened autism awareness and the continued presence of stigma. Furthermore, the survey demonstrated that knowledge influences awareness, whereas cultural beliefs and social norms directly affect autism misinformation. Importantly, the study highlighted how cultural beliefs and misinformation can hinder accurate understanding and knowledge of autism, potentially exacerbating stigma. By employing evidence-based approaches, this study offers comprehensive insights into autism, enriching the broader literature on the subject.
A Mechanical and Structural Approach for Binder-Free Biomass-Derived Carbon Electrodes
Authors:   , Hu Jiyao
Published: June 2024

This dissertation investigates the development of binder-free biomass-derived activated carbon electrodes for energy storage applications. Firstly, it introduces various electrochemical storage mechanisms and discusses the potential of utilizing industrial crops in electrode manufacturing. Subsequently, existing literature on industrial crop utilization for electrode materials is reviewed. Following this, methods for producing binder-free activated carbon electrodes from biomass sources are explored. The impact of retting on electrode properties is investigated, examining how different processing techniques influence performance. Mechanical stress and flow simulations are employed to gain insights into the behavior and performance of these unique electrodes. The study concludes with a comprehensive summary of findings and recommendations for future research directions, highlighting the potential of binder-free biomass-derived activated carbon electrodes in advancing sustainable energy storage solutions.
Inward, Outward, and Liminal Spaces in Beethoven
Authors:   , Zuno Fernández Leonardo
Published: June 2024

This dissertation builds on the common notion that Beethoven's music sounds inward by grounding this impression analytically. The chapters frame Beethoven's music in terms of inward, outward, and liminal spaces. Inward spaces are slow, lyrical, formally enclosed, and harmonically distant, and they often appear under the aura of what I call a "modulating trill" or a "diffused theme." Drawing on Schmalfeldt's references to inwardness, I describe outward spaces as inward moments that "radiate outward" and note that these restore tonal stability, lost thematic material, and bass notes that had once disappeared. Finally, liminal spaces are passages that quickly juxtapose inward and outward moments, and thus they seem to exist at the cusp between these two spaces. I examine how these passages evolve throughout entire pieces, typically withdrawing deeper within.
Sound Wave Propagation through Periodic and Nonreciprocal Structures with Viscous Components
Authors:   , Shymkiv Dmytro
Published: June 2024

Acoustic properties of periodic elastic structures have been a subject of active research for more than a century. Here, I derived and analyzed the dispersion equation for sound waves propagating in a periodic layered heterogeneous structure containing at least one viscous fluid as a constituent. The derivation of the dispersion equation is based on the Navier-Stokes equation for sound wave and the boundary conditions of continuity of fluid displacement and stresses at the interfaces with Bloch periodic boundary condition. The obtained dispersion equation is very general, it is valid for different combinations of elastic layers, any direction of propagation, and frequency of sound. In the case of superlattice consisting of narrow layers with high viscosity fluid and layers of ideal fluid, an acoustic analog of the Borrmann effect is predicted. In the other part of my dissertation, I study the nonreciprocal wave propagation in phononic crystals induced by viscosity. Using Fourier-transformed wave equation, I proved analytically that for an infinite phononic crystal with broken PT-symmetry dispersion relation remains the same switching the direction of the wave propagation, while Fourier components of velocity are nonreciprocal. I optimized shape of the scatterer to reach the highest value of the nonreciprocity in a two-dimensional finite phononic crystal. Sound propagation through crystals with various unit cells is numerically simulated with COMSOL Multiphysics to create a dataset of transmission values. For each introduced parameter the optimized scatterer's geometries are obtained utilizing machine learning techniques. I found parameters of the crystal, which may serve as a linear non-resonant passive acoustic diode.
COVID-19 Vaccine Complications: Quality of Public Information and Hostile Media Effect
Authors:   , Miller Geoffrey Marc
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the public perception of whether there is enough coverage of COVID-19 vaccine complications by government agencies and the media. The theoretical rationale is the roles of the hostile media effect and social responsibility theory in the public's perception of the media coverage of COVID-19 vaccine complications. The central question is whether the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the CDC, local health departments, and the major media (cable news, TV news, newspapers, social media) have provided enough information about the COVID-19 vaccine complications to the public. The research method includes three surveys. The first two were administered before the Institutional Review Board (IRB) approved the same questions. The first was a November 2022 Qualtrics survey of adults (N = 156) in two politically different counties, Democratic-dominant Dallas County and Republican-dominant Collin County. The second was a paid survey using Survey-Monkey with a national sample of US adults (N = 210) in June 2023. The third survey included adults (N = 130) and used Qualtrics after IRB approval using a university listserv and the Nextdoor app for Collin County, again striving for balance between Republicans and Democrats. Both the Qualtrics surveys were also posted on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). All three surveys showed dissatisfaction with the government and the media and suggested both a hostile media effect that crossed party lines and a counter-hostile media effect. The conclusion is that the public needs and wants more information, and the media needs to better address its social responsibility for government oversight.
An Annotated Repertoire List for Pre-Collegiate Collaborative Pianists
Authors:   , Guo Jun
Published: June 2024

This paper addresses the crucial need for comprehensive guidance in repertoire selection and technical development for pre-collegiate collaborative pianists. By compiling an annotated repertoire list, this research aims to assist teachers and pianists in navigating the developmental stages of collaborative piano work. The guide focuses on establishing foundational skills and techniques necessary for effective collaboration with various instruments, emphasizing the pianist's role as a musical partner. Drawing from the University Interscholastic League (UIL) list, the repertoire choices span a range of musical styles and periods, ensuring a balanced progression of difficulty. The paper talks about essential collaborative piano techniques, including hand and wrist position, physical coordination, listening, voicing, balance, pedaling, and breathing, providing a comprehensive overview to aid in successful ensemble performances. Each piece in the repertoire list is accompanied by detailed performance notes, addressing both pianistic and ensemble considerations. Additionally, the difficulty levels of the compositions are assessed with reference to established pedagogical literature. By offering a structured approach to repertoire selection and technical development, this annotated guide serves as a valuable resource for pre-collegiate collaborative pianists and their instructors, facilitating their growth and proficiency in collaborative music-making.
Soaring to New Heights: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) within the Collections and Exhibits at the Museum of Flight in Seattle, Washington
Authors:   , Hancock Kyle Scott
Published: June 2024

This thesis investigates how the Museum of Flight in Seattle, WA can strive to be more diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible within its collections and exhibits. By understanding the cultural insights of visitors, potential visitors, staff, and one member of the board of trustees through anthropological inquiry, museum leaders can utilize this information to better serve the stakeholders within the greater community that the museum aims to represent. The results of this research provide valuable insights into why people visit the museum, and which exhibits or artifacts are popular among both first time and recurring visitors. In addition, the results also provide context for obstacles that prevent people from visiting, shed insight into power dynamics between staff, museum leaders, and public stakeholders and how these can limit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the museum. By drawing on postmodernism, and political economy within anthropology, this thesis sheds a deeper insight into issues of DEI at the Museum of Flight, and ultimately, what steps the museum can take to be more diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible to all stakeholders within its collections and exhibits.
The Paradox of Culturally Responsive School Leadership: A Multiple Case Study
Authors:   , Diaz-Alcaraz Daniel
Published: June 2024

Minoritized students in public schools in Texas and across the nation continue to underachieve academically compared to their white peers. Despite similar academic achievement and socioeconomic backgrounds, minoritized students are often perceived more negatively by a predominantly white teacher workforce. The idea of cultural dissonance or mismatch between teachers and their students has led to the development of pedagogical frameworks such as culturally responsive teaching (CRT) that seek to bridge this cultural gap. This embedded multiple case study examined the perceptions, lived experiences, and level of preparedness of four school principals and one assistant superintendent in a white-majority school district with rapidly changing demographics. My findings support previous studies that show the limited resources and continued failure of universities and school systems in building educator capacity in culturally responsive school leadership CRSL. Furthermore, culturally responsive and visionary leaders may be more critical than previously thought due to school systems imbued with the dominant white culture and its deeply ingrained stereotypical views towards minoritized individuals. Despite these findings, my study also provides compelling evidence that meaningful relationships and diverse experiences alone can play an important role in fomenting and enhancing individuals' cultural proficiency, regardless of their racial/ethnic background. Finally, the implications of these findings are discussed in detail, followed by recommendations.
Self-Directed Learning Research: A Systematic Review
Authors:   , Reynolds Sara Nicole
Published: June 2024

This study serves to collate and evaluate measures of self-directed learning (SDL), with the goal of guiding the measurement and discussion of SDL. Used in a variety of settings, many applications of SDL have been proposed, but a consistent definition has yet to be formulated. Despite the lack of a cohesive definition, several tools exist to measure SDL. Within this study, which implemented the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) and Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Status Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) protocols, 157 articles were analyzed for content and themes were identified. An important finding of this study was a definite lack of cohesion in application and understanding of SDL as a framework. While some regard it as a stand-alone learning intervention, others address it as a personality trait. Close examination of the instruments used to measure SDL led to the conclusion that it is both inappropriate and ineffective to continue using, as they broadly lack construct validity and generalizability. Limitations of this study are single subject research, number studies available within databases used, and lack of raw data from studies covered. Future research surrounding the conceptual framework and instrumentation is indicated to further develop the field's understanding of SDL's value and implications.
Appraisal Practices in University Special Collections
Authors:   , Faulkner III James Donald
Published: June 2024

This exploratory and qualitative study examined the appraisal practices of archivists in university special collections, including how archivists define appraisal, decide what to keep and discard, apply a collection policy in their decision process, and contend with problematic aspects of the practice. The first part of this study examined the special collection policies of member libraries of the Association of Research Libraries in the United States. The collections' policies were analyzed using content analysis. The second part of the study explored the results of semi-structured interviews with archivists who conducted appraisals for their university special collections. Interview transcripts were analyzed using open coding, a method taken from grounded theory. The study found that appraisal is a complex, deeply interpersonal, and emotionally demanding task. Two central themes that emerged from the research were the significance of donor relations and the central role of collection policies. This study has several implications for the archival field. First, it found that archivists did not believe they were using any theory in their appraisals. However, the archivists were engaging in archival theory such as using a collection policy. This suggests a disconnect between education and practice. Conversely, the central role of the collection policy indicates that the field places more emphasis on this dimension. This study also found that the relationship between donors and archivists can be more complex than the literature suggests.
Queering Space and Time: Urban Radical Faerie Placemaking in North Central Texas
Authors:   , Goebel James Carl
Published: June 2024

Radical faeries in the city must contend with changing urban policies, social shame and stigma, policing, inaccessibility, materiality, and economic survival; in the face of these discontents, urban faeries still actively choose the city as their identity and as their home. Through placemaking practices which access the imaginative and experimental spatiality and temporality of queer sacredness, this thesis testifies urban radical faeries transform dimensionally discrete spaces within the city to thrive. By delving into the lived experiences and sexo-socio-spiritual placemaking of the radical faeries of Austin and Dallas, this project maps the spatiality of collective faerie utopian imaginaries, generating constellations of ephemeral sacred spaces and their residual effects on the built environment. Further, the recent pandemic saw the first temporary closing of sanctuary land since faeriedom's inception, and these creative placemaking strategies were further adapted to maintain community and identity during the COVID-19 pandemic through the collapse of spatial and temporal distance in accessing the virtual sacred. Understanding how faerie culture is maintained within the city, across space and time, the mundane and profane, the physical and digital, can provide insight and best practices to support urban faerie communities into the future.
Kuhlau in the Piano Studio: A Discussion of Selected Sonatinas by Friedrich Kuhlau for Intermediate Level Piano Students
Authors:   , Ai Xiaomeng
Published: June 2024

Friedrich Daniel Rudolf Kuhlau (1786–1832), was a German-Danish composer and pianist best known for his flute and opera works. His piano sonatinas have historically been overlooked for sonatinas of more popular composers such as Clementi, Mozart, and Beethoven. This research evaluates the technical and musical elements in Kuhlau's sonatinas and asserts that studying these works benefits intermediate level piano students, particularly in their musical and technical development. This document also provides performance practice and pedagogical discussion. Chapter 1 outlines the purpose of the dissertation and presents a brief biography of Kuhlau. Chapter 2 details the general expected achievements of the early intermediate, intermediate, and late intermediate piano levels. Chapter 3 focuses on specific Kuhlau sonatinas for each level, building on elements discussed from the previous chapter. Chapter 4 compares and contrasts the similarities and uniqueness between Kuhlau's sonatinas and those of Clementi (Op. 36, No. 3) and Beethoven (E-flat Major Sonatina). Chapter 5 discusses performance practices and related pedagogical concerns for students and teachers. Chapter 6 concludes the paper.
A Conductor's Guide to Preparing and Performing Stephen Paulus and Michael Dennis Browne's Oratorio "To Be Certain of the Dawn" (2005)
Authors:   , McLean William Morgan
Published: June 2024

The Pulitzer Prize-nominated To Be Certain of the Dawn is an hour-long, polystylistic oratorio written in 2005 by composer Stephen Paulus (1949–2014) with an interfaith libretto by Michael Dennis Browne (b. 1940). The work was commissioned by the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis and was intended to be given as a gift to the Temple Israel - Minneapolis synagogue. The oratorio was written to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps in 1945 as well as the 40th anniversary of the 1965 Vatican document Nostra Aetate. In this study, I examine Paulus and Browne's prolific artistic partnership, situate To Be Certain of the Dawn within their respective catalogs, explore the genesis of the work, and analyze the oratorio's structure, harmony, and libretto. I then utilize this analysis to provide a thorough guide for teaching and preparing this concert-length oratorio. In addition to the analysis, I have created supplemental teaching aids and rehearsal suggestions for preparing this work. With each component of this document, I intend to provide context and resources that assist conductors and organizations who aspire to perform this modern major work.
GFAP Polarity and Primary Cilia in Astrocytes of Mouse Brain
Authors:   , Elliott Jonathan David
Published: June 2024

Often in front-back, left-right, and top-bottom, cell polarity is a basic property of tissues and organs and essential for the development of multicellular organisms. In the central nervous system, neurons are a paragon of polarity, receiving action potentials in their apically located dendrites and propagating them down a single axon extending from the basal pole of neuronal somas, ultimately ending in basally situated axon termini. In contrast, astrocytes are often considered relatively unpolarized, in keeping with the meaning of their name, "star cells." However, astrocytes do exhibit polarity in the distribution of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and the location of the primary cilium. These features may be polarized beginning with the birth of astrocytes, when newly born pairs of daughter cells are mirror images of each other with the most distant somatic poles having both the primary cilium and the highest concentration of GFAP. The present study is a systematic analysis which addresses these aspects of astrocyte polarity: heterogeneity across brain regions and ages; influence of cilium deficiency; and orientation with respect to brain architecture and migration.
Controls on Leaf Litter Decomposition and Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Communities at a National Scale
Authors:   , Bucher Morgan Jean
Published: June 2024

Leaf litter is a major nutrient source for aquatic detrital food webs, fueling the microbes and macroinvertebrates that colonize it. Litter is especially important as a nutrient source for macroinvertebrates in headwater streams that tend to have lower primary production than higher-order stream systems. Understanding how litter decomposition and macroinvertebrates interact at large scales facilitates predictions about how stream ecosystems will change over space and time with regards to allochthonous nutrient inputs. We utilized a subset of the National Ecological Observatory Network's wadeable stream sites to deploy a litter pack study across the United States and Puerto Rico to determine the controlling factors for litter decomposition and associated macroinvertebrate assemblages, abundances, and species richness at a national scale. We found that litter species was the most important contributing factor to litter decomposition, and despite litter decomposition differences from stream to stream, the relative differences in decomposition rate between litter types was very similar. Stream identity, temperature, and flow also played roles in affecting decomposition patterns. In contrast to litter decomposition, litter species did not significantly contribute to variation in macroinvertebrate assemblages, abundance, or species richness, though environmental variables did impact abundance and species richness. These results suggest that there is functional redundancy in aquatic detritivore communities at large scales, and that the assemblages colonizing different species of leaf litter–despite being similar–might be functioning differently.
Unraveling the Geography of Sepsis Mortality: Investigating Age Adjustment Methods
Authors:   , Crawford Madeline Nicole
Published: June 2024

Mapping is a fundamental tool in assessing a disease's geographic distribution and severity across populations and periods. For mortality maps, the use of age adjustment allows for population comparisons without the confounding effects from differences in age structures. Mortality maps tend to use the direct age adjustment method for computing rates, where age-specific rates of the study populations are applied to the same standard population weights. However, the less often used indirect method of age adjustment, where a set of standard age-specific death rates are weighted to the actual age structure of the population, may be preferred for mapping outcomes associated with older age, yet still evident across other ages. Using 2000-2020 United States county-level sepsis mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data portal (CDC WONDER), this research explores the reliability of calculating accurate estimates of missing or censored mortality CDC data to create both direct and indirect age-adjusted mortality maps. Both direct and indirect maps were shown to be consistent with spatial clustering patterns, and the indirect age-adjusted map provided more stabilized rates for small population counties, often ignored due to missing or unreliable rates. Additionally, the calculated mortality rates were shown to have a high degree of similarity to the sourced CDC WONDER death rates. This research highlights the impacts of choice in age adjustment methods for mortality mapping, with an emphasis on indirect age adjustment, particularly for diseases with variability in age-dependent mortality rates.
"Vine of the Soul": The Potential of Ayahuasca for Reducing Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among Ceremony Participants and the Role of Rumination
Authors:   , Ramarushton Banan M.
Published: June 2024

Rumination is a well-established risk factor for the onset and maintenance of depression and anxiety and has been identified as a transdiagnostic factor due to its association with multiple forms of psychopathology. A renaissance of psychedelic research shows promise in treating psychopathology with potential for acting on ruminative processes. Despite the growing interest and developments in legality, very few research studies have investigated the psychological consequences of participating in an ayahuasca ceremony in North America. The current study included 30 participants (Mage = 41.03, SD = 7.35; range = 30-59 years; 50.0% women; 76.7% White/Caucasian) who participated in an ayahuasca ceremony at a North American ayahuasca church. Participants were asked to complete seven daily surveys prior to their ceremony (Phase I) and seven daily surveys following their ceremony (Phase II). Multi-level models tested changes in rumination and depression, anxiety, and stress scores across both phases of the study. Significant and large reduction were evidenced in levels of rumination and depression, anxiety, and stress immediately following the ayahuasca ceremony. This effect was maintained during Phase II, with scores remaining lower than Phase I and relatively stable. Furthermore, path models did not support the mediating role of rumination in the negative link between ayahuasca ceremony effects (as indexed via ego-dissolution) and depression, anxiety, and stress scores (though evidence for mediation was found without bootstrapping samples). Findings of this study contribute to the emerging literature on the role that ceremonial ayahuasca use may have on reducing psychological distress.
Investigations into Stroke and the Cholinergic Neuromodulatory System
Authors:   , Butcher Grayson Michael
Published: June 2024

Neuromodulatory systems, such as the cholinergic basal forebrain (CBF), are promising targets of behavioral neuroscientific research because of the clear role(s) they play in fundamental neural and behavioral plasticity processes. Previous research suggests that the CBF is a promising target for augmenting post-stroke behavioral rehabilitation. Several studies were conducted to establish a novel paradigm for investigating and ameliorating post-stroke related motor deficits in a rodent model. The first two studies describe the invention and validation of a novel apparatus for conducting individualized rodent research in an environmentally and socially enriched context. The second study specifically investigated how this approach yields novel insights into post-stroke motor deficits. The third study describes how electrical stimulation of the CBF may improve poststroke motor rehabilitation. Together, these studies are expected to improve current stroke models, our understanding of how the CBF supports fundamental learning processes, and how to best manipulate the CBF to improve recovery from neurological injury.
Solution-Processed Graphene for Flexible Printed Biosensors and Electromyography
Authors:   , Tesky Allyson R.
Published: June 2024

Inkjet-printing of graphene is a desirable additive-manufacturing process for rapid-prototyping and centers around the readily scalable process of liquid-phase exfoliation of graphene. Unfortunately, most common solvents for this process such as N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) or cyclohexanone/terpineol (C/T) are toxic. Dihydrolevoglucosenone, commonly known as Cyrene, is a renewable and fully biodegradable non-toxic solvent that represents an ideal alternative. Here, we demonstrate the potential of Cyrene-based graphene inks through few-layer inkjet printing on flexible substrates to produce non-toxic conductors a strain-mediated mechanism for biosensing. These strain-sensors were used to detect bodily motion for wearable electronics, where gel-based, wet-electrodes are a common feature within the broader class of sensors used in electromyography (EMG). The environmentally friendly and non-toxic nature of this solvent has promise not only for wearables, but also in agricultural and food industries where sensors need to be safe for potential contacts made to food supplies. Moreover, it has demonstrated superior suspension of graphene flakes compared to traditional solvents.
"Cripping" the Curriculum through the Arts: A Non-Guide for Educators on Valuing Student Differences and Increasing Access to Learning
Authors:   , Bachmann Mikaela Jo
Published: June 2024

This dissertation examines the concept of ableism, as defined by Ostiguy, Peters, and Shlasko, as a system that oppresses individuals with disabilities while privileging those without disabilities. The aim of this work is to aid educators and school personnel in recognizing, critiquing, and moving away from normative assumptions of compulsory able-bodiedness and able-mindedness inherent in education. Through the lens of critical crip theory, the dissertation proposes a framework that connects social justice education with the visual arts to challenge normative expectations and embrace (dis)abled ontologies, epistemologies, and perspectives. "Curricular Renovations: A Non-Guide for Educators on Empowering Difference in the Classroom" is a textbook designed for both preservice and current educators, providing insights on understanding, unlearning, and reconstructing disability and disability knowledge in educational settings. This framework offers strategies for creating inclusive environments that value diversity, thereby supporting both students and teachers in achieving success across various learning contexts.
Eine Stunde Katalanisch/Una estona de català:
Authors: Calvo del Olmo Francisco
Published: June 2024

Aquest article té l’objectiu de presentar els diàlegs i les sinergies que es poden crear entre l’ensenyament de català i la intercomprensió (IC) entre llengües emparentades. Així, inserim la nostra temàtica dins els projectes i les reflexions que la IC, com a enfocament teòric i metodològic, ha rebut durant els darrers anys a l’àmbit de la llengua catalana. Des d’aquesta perspectiva, discutim les funcions que l’ensenyant i l’estudiant assumeixen per tal d’assolir sabers i competències en un procés continu de construcció. A continuació, dirigim la nostra atenció cap a l’examen dels avantatges estructurals que el català ofereix per construir un coneixement ‘panromànic’ degut a la posició central que aquesta llengua ocupa a l’endins del contínuum romànic; la qual cosa, a més, augmenta las possibilitats d’IC per part dels locutors i els estudiants de les altres llengües de la família neollatina. Així doncs, ens interessa saber de quina manera aquests recursos es poden mobilitzar des de la didàctica mitjançant els materials emprats a classe. En aquest punt, l’experiència d’un curs de català impartit per a estudiants alemanys a la Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität fornirà les bases empíriques i els exemples que il·lustraran la nostra exposició. Esperem, al capdavall, demostrar que la IC pot aportar eines per a l’ensenyament, la promoció i la valorització del català a nivell internacional.
Experience of Nurses Responding to the COVID-19 Outbreak at a Long-term Care Hospital in Korea
Authors: Kim Eun Jo , Kang JaHyun
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic uncovered the fundamental vulnerability of Long-term Care Hospitals (LTCHs) regarding infection control. This study aimed to describe the experiences of nurses who responded to the COVID-19 outbreak on the front lines while working at a LTCH. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted with nine nurses. The data from in-depth individual interviews using semi-structured questions was analyzed thematically. Results: Three themes and 11 sub-themes were extracted. The first theme, “the sudden onset of the outbreak,” included finding themselves desensitized to COVID-19 as the pandemic persisted; embarrassed by the unavoidable occurrence; and worried about becoming a spreader and aggravating the outbreak. The second theme, “physically and mentally worn out,” involved increased fatigue from overtime work; exhaustion from responding to inquiry calls pouring in; tension while monitoring and controlling infection control compliance among nursing assistants, caregivers, and elderly patients with cognitive impairment; and increased discomfort while taking on all the extra work with stifling personal protective equipment. The third theme, “awakened perspectives while responding to the outbreak,” covered increased compassion for patients; paying attention to infectious diseases and having confidence in infection control principles; realization of the need for isolation rooms, supplies, and a full-time infection control nurse; and pride as an LTCH nurse who responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: To enhance the level of prevention and response to infectious disease outbreaks in LTCHs in the future, it is necessary to establish infection control infrastructure, including personnel, isolation facilities, supplies, and continuing education for the LTCHs’ nursing workforce.
Prediction model of health checkup and cancer screening experience of elderly population using 2021 Community Health Survey
Authors: Han Myeunghee
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This study was conducted to build a decision tree model composed of factors that predict whether or not the elderly population underwent health or cancer screening using the 2021 community health survey.Methods: This study included 74,434 and 74,417 subjects who answered for experience of health checkup or cancer screening, respectively. This study used Chi-squared test, independent t-tests, and decision tree analysis to analyze the data.Results: Regarding the health checkup, 78.1% of women received a health checkup, and among women, those aged 65-74 years who were not recipients of the basic livelihood service showed the highest participation rate of 85.0%. In case of men, those who were married and had no problems in daily activity showed the highest participation rate of 81.4%. In the case of cancer screening, for women, those who were 65-74 years old and were nonrecipients of basic livelihood benefits showed the highest participation rate of 75.3%. For men, the cancer screening rate was the highest at 74.3% in those who had no problems with mobility and were married.Conclusion: It was found that the general and health characteristics of the elderly had a great influence on the health checkup and cancer screening. In order to develop a more improved screening system, screening rates and effects should be continuously observed and studied.
Patterns of Adolescent Substance Use: A Comparative Study among the United States, Canada, England, and South Korea from 2014-2021
Authors: Kim Chaehee , Han Kihye , Kim Jieun , Trinkoff Alison M. , Park Sihyun , Kim Hyejin
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to identify the cross-national estimates of substance use, explore problematic substance use patterns among adolescents across countries and over time, and examine the relationship of individual characteristics on substance use patterns. Methods: This study employed a time-series secondary data analysis spanning from 2014 to 2021 across four countries (United States, Canada, England, and South Korea). We analyzed the usage of five substances (alcohol, binge drinking, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and illicit drugs) alongside demographic characteristics. A descriptive analysis was performed to identify estimates of substance use across countries. Latent class analysis was employed to examine adolescents’ substance use patterns across time and countries. A multinomial logistic regression model was fit to assess the relationship between latent class and demographic characteristics. Results: Adolescents in the United States and Canada had the highest substance use, while Korean adolescents had the lowest, particularly concerning drugs. Latent class analysis revealed two classes (light-user and heavy-user), with the addition of a third class (moderate-user) in some instances. The substance use patterns, while differing significantly among nations, exhibited consistency over time. During COVID-19, a decrease in heavy-substance users was observed across countries. Male or older participants were more likely to belong to the heavy-user class. Conclusion: This research offers valuable insights into the variations in substance use patterns between nations and over time. A tailored approach is essential to prevent adolescents from becoming heavy-substance users. This approach should consider country regulations and demographics for a targeted and comprehensive preventive strategy.
Priorities of Family Caregivers in Preserving Functional Abilities of Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease Living at Home: A Best-Worst Scaling Approach
Authors: Cho Eunhye , Yang Youngran , Kim Hyun Kyung , Kim Hye Young
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The decline in cognitive abilities among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease significantly impacts their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), creating challenges and stress for their caregivers. This study aimed to investigate the priorities of family caregivers of community-dwelling individuals with Alzheimer's disease concerning the preservation of their loved ones' ADLs. Methods: We employed a cross-sectional design with a best-worst scaling approach (BWS), and developed a BWS questionnaire utilizing the 10 daily living items from the Disability Assessment for Alzheimer’s Disease scale. This questionnaire was administered to 132 caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS WIN 21.0 and the R statistical program. Results: The results revealed that "using the toilet without accidents" emerged as the top-ranked ADL that family caregivers preferred to preserve for the longest duration among individuals with Alzheimer's disease living at home. In contrast, "Managing money appropriately" was identified as a daily living activity considered relatively less critical to preserve. The study further indicated a preference among caregivers for preserving physical ADLs over instrumental ADLs. Conclusion: This research provides clinical evidence shedding light on the priorities of family caregivers in preserving the functional abilities of individuals with Alzheimer's disease within the community.
Perspectivas de Profissionais de Educação sobre ações do Programa Saúde na Escola em Pelotas em 2022
Authors: Mallue Felipe Garcia , Leite Giulia Salaberry , Dias Tales Conceição , Guimarães Italo Fontoura , Knuth Alan Goularte , Crochemore-Silva Inácio
Published: June 2024

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo descrever as ações do Programa Saúde na Escola em 2022 no município de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, segundo a perspectiva de profissionais da educação. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, contemplando 51 das 60 escolas de Ensino Fundamental de nível municipal. Foram utilizados dois questionários estruturados administrados aos responsáveis pelo Programa ou membros da equipe gestora das instituições por meio telefônico, ou presencial. Os temas abordados com diretores, vice-diretores, orientadores educacionais e coordenadores pedagógicos incluíram a existência do Programa, as temáticas desenvolvidas, sua frequência, capacitação, envolvimento de profissionais de saúde e educação, articulação entre setores, apoio, autonomia de estudantes e barreiras para implementação do programa. Entre as 51 escolas analisadas, 41 (80,5%) delas possuíam o programa, com frequência das ações prevalentes a cada 3 meses (39,0%) e sendo a ação de Promoção da saúde bucal (90,2%) a mais apontada. Em 70,7% das escolas foram realizadas ações de promoção de atividade física. Além disso, observou-se o setor saúde como principal responsável pelas ações (87,8%), limitada participação dos alunos na escolha das temáticas (34,0%) e escassez de capacitações aos educadores (36,6%). Embora uma instituição universitária tenha se apresentado como fonte de apoio (53,7%) e todas as escolas com o programa registraram ao menos uma ação realizada, a sobrecarga (36,6%) e a necessidade de articulação (34,1%) foram as barreiras mais relatadas. Apesar dos desafios e dificuldades em diversos indicadores, foram identificadas iniciativas que configuram o Programa como importante ferramenta para promoção da saúde de escolares no município.
A Cognitive Network Perspective on Creativity: Theorizing Network Mobilization Scripts
Authors: Biscaro Claudio , Montanari Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Although interpersonal networks are paramount for creativity, much prior work has considered their interpretation and activation to be unambiguous. In this paper, we instead draw on the notion that interpersonal networks exist primarily as subjective representations—that is, cognitive networks—to explore their influence on network mobilization. Through an inductive study in which we follow the elaboration of creative ideas in a small organization, we reconstruct how different cognitive networks channel individuals to enact specific network mobilization scripts—activating specific ties and adopting particular forms of interpersonal engagement. We identify two network mobilization scripts stemming from loose and cohesive cognitive networks, respectively. The script stemming from loose cognitive networks leads individuals to activate and engage with a few intimate colleagues bluntly and directly, whereas the one arising from cohesive cognitive networks prods the activation of a larger set of ties and a courteous demeanor. Although both network mobilization scripts facilitate the elaboration of ideas, their effectiveness is contingent on their resonance with the cognitive network of the individuals who enact them and with the network mobilization scripts enacted by the alters who are activated. By showing that individuals with different cognitive networks mobilize their networks differently, we contribute to both the cognitive network literature and the social side of the creativity literature.
The successful management of stroke in Evans syndrome by anticoagulation with warfarin, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), and high-dose corticosteroid
Authors: Takahashi Toshiaki , Takaoka Kensuke , Kwong Kelsey , Macapagal Sharina , Tanariyakul Manasawee , Wannaphut Chalothorn , Nishimura Yoshito
Published: June 2024

Evans syndrome (ES) is a rare autoimmune disorder characterised by autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA), immune thrombocytopenia and autoimmune neutropenia. The precise pathogenesis of ES remains unclear, but it is believed to involve immune-mediated destruction of erythrocytes and platelets. Thrombotic complications, such as stroke, are critical yet largely unrecognised in ES. Here, we present a case of an 80-year-old male with ES who developed multiple strokes, emphasising the complex management challenges associated with this condition. The patient, known for stage IIB lung adenocarcinoma, presented with right-sided weakness and was diagnosed with a stroke of undetermined aetiology. He was started on warfarin for secondary prevention alongside intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and corticosteroids for ES. Stroke in ES is rarely reported, and the optimal management remains inconclusive due to its rarity. The patient’s management was guided by existing guidelines for stroke prevention and anticoagulation in the setting of antiphospholipid syndrome. While anticoagulants are recommended for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in AIHA, there are no clear guidelines for stroke prevention in ES. This case underscores the necessity of individualised treatment approaches and highlights the gaps in evidence regarding stroke management in ES. Future research is essential to determine the optimal management of stroke in this complex clinical scenario.
STUDI KELAYAKAN APLIKASI ZEOLIT DALAM PENGOLAHAN AIR PAYAU MENJADI AIR BERSIH
Authors: Prihatinningtyasa Eka , Novianti Relita
Published: June 2024

Salah satu pengolahan air payau adalah adsorpsi. Dalam penelitian ini, dua jenis zeolit dibandingkan sebagaiadsorben. Zeolit A diperoleh melalui aktivasi fisik dengan pemanasan pada suhu 600ºC. Zeolit yangtermodifikasi menggunakan surfaktan HDTMA-Br akan menghasilkan Zeolit B. Kedua jenis zeolit tersebutdikarakterisasi menggunakan SEM, XRD, dan PSA. Hasil analisis PSA menunjukkan bahwa Zeolit B memilikiluas permukaan, volume, dan ukuran pori yang lebih tinggi dibandingkan Zeolit A. Aktivitas adsorpsi diukurberdasarkan penghilangan salinitas, kekeruhan, TDS, dan konduktivitas pada berbagai massa adsorben danwaktu adsorpsi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan Zeolit A mampu menurunkan salinitas sebesar 15,38% dalamwaktu 30 menit dan massa 6 gram. Zeolit B sebanyak 4 gram mampu menghilangkan salinitas 17,31%sekaligus. Rendahnya rasio nilai Si/Al menyebabkan kapasitas adsorpsi menjadi lemah. Air terproduksi jugabelum memenuhi standar persyaratan air bersih dan air minum.
What's the relationship?
Authors: Burrow Hannah
Published: June 2024

Hannah Burrow explores the relationship between dental and mental health.
Promoting Gender Equality Through Cross-Disciplinary Collaborative Online International Learning Projects: The Students’ Perspective
Authors: Crescenzi-Lanna Lucrezia , Contreras-Higuera Williams , Pieri Valerio , Cataldi Silvia
Published: June 2024

This article describes a methodology and a didactic innovation in higher education that employs Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) across four universities in the fields of sociology, psychology, social education and economics in order to explore the phenomenon of economic violence. The COIL activities were developed by four teachers in the second semester of 2022. The students explored the social and cultural origins of economic violence and the daily exposure to economic inequality in the domestic sphere, while also studying the prevention and responses offered by anti-violence centers from both organizational and social perspectives. The most novel aspect of COIL projects is the research approach to the topic (gender violence) and the students' participation in extracurricular activities, namely presenting the results of their research developed during their academic subjects after the course, at international events. In this study, we describe the projects and the assessment of this part of the research, analyzing the perceptions of the Italian and Spanish students who participated in the dissemination activity. The students' perceptions were recorded through a semi-structured questionnaire utilizing Likert scales and open-ended questions, which included their self-assessments of their knowledge before and after participating in the project, the impact on their development of competences and skills, and their satisfaction with the whole experience. Students acquired a great deal of knowledge and understanding of the phenomenon being studied through COIL methodology and connected these extracurricular activities to a clear improvement in their transversal skills.