bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political Awareness Among Elected Members Of Village Panchayath- A Case Study Of Gurupura Village At Dakshina Kannada District
Authors: Hegde Dr Shakila
Published: October 2024

In the modern age of development, local government has the greater responsibilities to play. The elected representative are to be the agent of positive change at their level. For this, Elected representatives are to be more sensible towards the socio-economic and other aspects. Although local government in India is subject of the State government, the seventy-third and seventy-fourth amendments to the Constitution of India now make it obligatory for the state government to organise local bodies, to hold regular election to them and to give them appropriate finances. Political awareness means access to political information, political participation, media exposure, interest in politics and education with political information being the best indicator over all. The Political Awareness and Political Participation are the parameters to assess the success of democratic system. There are two forms of political participation such as active and passive. The study of the political awareness and participation among the elected members at the gram panchayat level enabled to derive the efforts done by the external agencies in this regard. The study is restricted to one of the gram panchayat of Gurupur village in Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka
The Evolution Of Drug Trafficking In Nigeria: Analysing Law Enforcement Strategies And Their Impact On Combating The Drug Menace
Authors: Uduo Thomas , Ibiba Odili
Published: October 2024

Drug trafficking remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with complex socio-political and economic factors driving its persistence. The purpose of this paper is to examine the evolution of drug trafficking in Nigeria and evaluates the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies in combating this menace. The study adopts a qualitative research approach with semi-structured interviews with law enforcement officials and former traffickers. Thematic and narrative analyses are used to uncover the underlying themes and individual experiences that shape the drug trade and enforcement efforts. Findings reveal that while Nigeria has implemented various strategies, including legislative reforms and cross-border collaborations, the effectiveness of these measures is hindered by inadequate resources, and the adaptive strategies of traffickers. The study also highlights the need for a more integrated approach that includes community-based interventions and stronger international cooperation. By analysing the narratives of those involved and the strategies employed, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the drug trafficking landscape in Nigeria and offers insights for more effective policy and enforcement measures.
Exploring The Efficacy Of Acceptance And Commitment Therapy (ACT) Group Sessions In Reducing Maternal Stress Among Mothers With Autism
Authors: Srikanth Dr. Gita , Narayan Swati
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) group sessions on maternal stress among six mothers of children diagnosed with autism, in India. The sessions were facilitated by a team consisting of a clinical psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst who implemented evidence based techniques combining Relational Frame Theory and culturally modified ACT. Maternal stress is a critical concern, particularly in the context of individuals with autism, where ASD specific challenges may amplify the daily pressures both social and parenting that is experienced by mothers. The study utilized a pre-post intervention design, assessing maternal stress levels before and after participants attended ACT based group sessions. The results revealed a significant reduction in maternal stress scores following participation in the ACT group sessions, measured using tools such as the Autism Parenting Stress Index (APSI) and The Family Adjustment to Childhood Developmental Disability (FICD). The findings suggest that the structured and supportive environment provided by ACT counselling sessions contributed to a meaningful decrease in stress levels among the mothers who participated in the study. The cultural context of India adds depth to the understanding of how therapeutic interventions can be adapted to diverse populations, emphasizing the need for use of evidence based methods such as ACT in parent training and counselling. Additionally, the use of this method furthers the parent’s acceptance of Autism as a lifelong condition and transforms their parenting approach. This research not only contributes to the growing body of literature on interventions for individuals with autism and their families but also underscores the adaptability of evidence-based practices in diverse cultural settings. Further exploration and replication of these findings with larger sample sizes are recommended to strengthen the evidence supporting the use of ACT group sessions as a valuable tool in mitigating maternal stress among mothers with autism in the Indian context.
Literacy And Artificial Intelligence: Applications And Concerns
Authors: Karatzas Andreas , Zogopoulos Konstantinos
Published: October 2024

Background: The intersection of literacy and Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds transformative potential for education. AI can significantly enhance literacy by offering personalized learning approaches, automated assessments, and diverse educational applications. In this paper, specific examples of AI's role in literacy are provided, alongside discussions of challenges such as reduced human interaction and the risk of perpetuating educational inequalities. Emphasizing the ethical and social considerations in developing and using AI in education is crucial. Materials and Methods: Our research falls under exploratory studies and aimed to capture the current state in the field of Primary and Secondary Education educators regarding Artificial Intelligence. It was conducted through data collection via an anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire was sent to all school units in the country through the Primary and Secondary Education Directorates in December 2023. Data were collected through the Google Form platform, and statistical processing was done using SPSS 28. The research sample was formed from the voluntary participation of N=1736 educators. A unique aspect of our research was that after the demographic information, participants were asked not to proceed with completing the questionnaire if they answered "Not at all" to question A1: How well do you know what Artificial Intelligence is? Thus, the first data showed that 51% of the participating educators knew nothing about AI, while 49% knew a little, a lot, or very much. After filtering out incomplete questionnaires, our sample was N=866, and data processing was based on this. Results: Our research aimed to explore educators' perceptions regarding the application of AI in literacy development and to identify the key factors influencing these perceptions. The theoretical framework highlighted the potential benefits of AI in education, such as personalized learning, automated assessment, and increased student engagement. Our findings largely align with this framework, indicating that educators recognize the positive effects of AI, particularly in areas such as efficient teaching methods and enhanced learning. Conclusion: The conclusion highlights the importance of harnessing AI for literacy development while fostering students' critical thinking to mitigate potential negative impacts. Initial findings from exploratory research on AI in education are also presented.
Saúde E Educação Sexual: A Aplicabilidade De Tecnologias Para A Prevenção E Conscientização Sobre Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST’s)
Authors: Barbosa Samira Goldberg Rego , Carvalho Kleber Alves De , Silva Thaís Giselle Maia Da , Lopes Ione Maria Ribeiro Soares , Costa Pedro Vitor Lopes
Published: October 2024

A pesquisa investigou a relevância das tecnologias digitais na conscientização sobre Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (ISTs). O objetivo foi avaliar como as ferramentas tecnológicas podem melhorar a educação e a prevenção dessas infecções. Utilizando uma abordagem metodológica de revisão bibliográfica, foram analisados diversos estudos e fontes acadêmicas, incluindo artigos e teses acessados por plataformas como Scielo, PudMed e Google Acadêmico. A análise revelou que as tecnologias, como aplicativos móveis e redes sociais, são eficazes em ampliar o alcance e personalizar a educação sexual, permitindo acesso rápido a informações atualizadas e oferecendo suporte interativo. Os resultados indicaram que essas ferramentas superam barreiras culturais e sociais, facilitando o acesso discreto e reduzindo o estigma associado às ISTs. A conclusão destaca que a integração das tecnologias na educação sexual não apenas melhora a disseminação de informações, mas também fortalece as estratégias de prevenção e gestão das ISTs, contribuindo para uma saúde sexual mais informada e responsável.
The Cultural Ostracism Of Indian Nepalis And Their Crusade For Identity In The Indian Landscape
Authors: Gurung Ms. Sonali , Majumder Mrs. Matisa
Published: October 2024

India is a land of diverse cultures, witnessing a massive influx of people from all ages. Many historical events in the past led to the migration of various ethnicities from the neighbouring countries in India. One of the significant events was the 'Anglo-Nepalis war' of 1814 followed by the acquisition of Darjeeling by the British in the year 1835, which led to the massive migration of Nepalis1 into India. The large-scale influx resulted from the 'British colonial' demand for brave soldiers and plantation workers for tea estates. Later in 1950, the 'open border' concept in the India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, added to the migration history. Since then, the Nepalis have dispersed and become a part of the social structure of Indian society. In the early 19th century, the influx was mainly of the janajatis2 (indigenous people) from Nepal and a few groups geographically belonging to the Himalayan areas. The immigrants geographically dispersed themselves in the areas bordering India and Nepal. Their diaspora resulted in a shift in their lifestyle and culture. At present, they are widespread in various parts of India, struggling to create a niche identity for themselves. Though they belong to India, they are not socially recognized as Indian. To an extent, the contribution of Indian-Nepalis to the military is prevalent but what remains unknown is the question of their identity of being 'an Indian'. Therefore, this paper intends to explore the Indian Nepali community’s contribution to India, the intercultural exchange, their influence on Indian cuisine and culture, and their fight for acceptance as true Indians in their own nation. Further, by examining the socio-cultural dynamics, the community’s migration pattern, and processes of cultural assimilation, this study aims to highlight the community’s efforts to overcome marginalisation and assert their identity within the broader Indian landscape
Challenges And Strategies In Healthcare Confronting Population Aging In Brazil
Authors: Júnior Mario Angelo Cenedesi , Silva Joana Darc Ferreira Da , Carraro Patrícia Rossi , Cenedesi Renata Trivelato Felício
Published: October 2024

The concept of equity in the Unified Health System (SUS) is essential for ensuring a fair distribution of resources and health opportunities, taking into account the specific needs of different population groups. Equity goes beyond universal access to healthcare services, encompassing the adaptation of these services to address socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural inequalities. In SUS, this means providing additional support to vulnerable populations, such as low-income individuals, residents of remote areas, and groups with cultural and linguistic barriers. Key challenges include regional disparities, such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure in rural and peripheral areas, and socioeconomic inequalities that hinder access due to indirect costs and lack of information. To overcome these challenges, SUS should adopt comprehensive strategies, such as increasing funding and resources for underserved areas, implementing public policies that address socioeconomic inequalities, and investing in transportation and health education. Inclusion is equally crucial, requiring the removal of physical and social barriers, the promotion of a culture of respect and cultural competence among healthcare professionals, and the active participation of diverse groups in policy formulation. Furthermore, promoting interinstitutional collaboration, community participation, and the collection and analysis of disaggregated data to guide targeted policies is important. These strategies aim to create a fairer and more inclusive health system, capable of adequately serving the entire Brazilian population
Effective Communication In Health: Strategies For Effective Work Development
Authors: Cenedesi Renata Trivelato Felício , Moura-Ferreira Maria Cristina De , Almeida Ellen Patrícia Faria De , Júnior Mario Angelo Cenedesi
Published: October 2024

Communication is a fundamental element in human life and becomes even more crucial in the context of health, where its quality can determine the success or failure of the care provided. Within health teams, effective communication is essential not only for the exchange of information but also to ensure patient safety, prevent errors, and promote a collaborative work environment. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Brazil's Ministry of Health, through Ordinance 529/2013, recognize communication as one of the priority goals for patient safety, emphasizing that failures in this process are among the main causes of errors and adverse events in care. However, communication in health goes beyond merely passing on technical information. It involves the ability to understand and respect the cultural, emotional, and ethical aspects that permeate interactions between professionals and patients, directly affecting the quality of care and the patients' perceptions of their treatment and health. In this regard, communication emerges as a complex and multifaceted process that reflects and shapes interpersonal relationships and the functioning of health organizations, being indispensable for the promotion of safe, effective, and patient-centered care. Communication is essential for human interaction and work development, particularly in the health sector. It strengthens the bonds between the interdisciplinary team and patients, being decisive for the quality and safety of the care provided. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that inadequate communication can lead to errors and adverse events, compromising patient safety. In Brazil, effective communication has been established as a safety goal following Ministerial Ordinance 529/2013. Communication failures are among the main causes of adverse events, but effective, clear, and understandable communication can reduce these errors. Furthermore, the communicative process in the health context is complex as it involves different professionals and technologies that influence relationships and the quality of care. Communication is also intrinsically linked to patients' cultural and individual perceptions of health and illness, influencing how they experience and interpret care. Therefore, developing communication skills is crucial to improving the quality of care and patient safety, considering the subjectivity and particularities of each individual
Mental Health Education: Challenges And Future Perspectives
Authors: Cenedesi Renata Trivelato Felício , Mendonça Daiane Prates , Silva Joana Darc Ferreira Da , Araújo Maria Aparecida De Almeida , Júnior Rodrigo Motta, Mario Angelo Cenedesi
Published: October 2024

Basic education is a fundamental right and essential for the development of nations, as evidenced by the need for quality educational training. The relationship between socio-emotional behavior and learning is crucial, as cognitive and emotional characteristics directly affect learning. Mental health, often misunderstood and reduced to a restrictive treatment approach, is a determining factor in children's development, influencing emotional issues and how they develop throughout life. The school environment, where children spend most of their time, becomes central to promoting mental health and early intervention. Schools not only provide literacy but should also act as a space for socialization and prevention, integrating practices that address emotional and behavioral issues. The National Common Curricular Base (BNCC) emphasizes the importance of emotional and social competencies, such as empathy and conflict resolution, which are essential for the holistic development of students. Teacher training programs are vital, as they enable teachers to identify signs of emotional problems and intervene appropriately. Educator training should include knowledge about mental disorders and strategies to promote mental health, which can improve academic performance and student wellbeing. The approach should be holistic and student-centered, considering both individual needs and the social context. Ultimately, the school plays a transformative role in society, needing to adapt its curricula and practices to include topics of mental health and well-being, following Paulo Freire’s critical and emancipatory perspective. By integrating health actions into the daily school routine, schools contribute to the development of conscious citizens prepared to face life’s challenges.
Feminicide In Brazil: Reflections Of Inequalities And Culture Of Impunity
Authors: Júnior Mario Angelo Cenedesi , Silva Kenya Costa Rodrigues Da , Silva Joana Darc Ferreira Da , Nunes Thiago Henrique Pereira , Pinto Paulo Rogério Ferreira
Published: October 2024

Violence against women in Brazil is a serious and persistent issue that goes beyond the boundaries of the most visible forms of physical aggression and homicides, deeply permeating social structure and affecting millions of women in various ways. Rooted in historical and structural gender inequalities, this violence reflects an entrenched culture of sexism that values male domination and devalues women, perpetuating a power hierarchy that keeps women in constant vulnerability. Impunity further exacerbates the problem, with many cases going unreported and judicial responses often inadequate. In addition to devastating individual consequences, violence against women has profound societal impacts, restricting women's personal and professional development and generating significant costs to public health and the economy. Effectively addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach including education, awareness, effective public policies, support for victims, and rigorous punishment of perpetrators. Investing in gender equality from basic education onward is crucial to promoting a culture of respect for women's rights and preventing future acts of violence. Combatting violence against women demands a collective commitment from all sectors of society, from governments to civil society organizations and individuals, to ensure that all women can live free from fear and violence, with their rights fully protected and respected
Ketamine for chronic non‐cancer pain: A meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Michelet D. , Brasher C. , Horlin A.‐L. , Bellon M. , Julien‐Marsollier F. , Vacher T. , Pontone S. , Dahmani S.
Published: November 2017

Background

Ketamine has been suggested to be efficient in relieving chronic pain. However, there is inconsistency across studies investigating the effect of ketamine for chronic pain management. We aimed to perform a meta‐analysis in order to assess the efficacy of this compound during chronic non‐cancer pain conditions.

Methods

The study consisted in a meta‐analysis of clinical trials comparing ketamine to a placebo during chronic non‐cancer pain. The primary endpoint of this study was pain relief 4 weeks after the beginning of treatment. Secondary outcomes were: pain relief 1, 2, 8 and 12 weeks after the beginning of treatment and incidence of psychedelic manifestations.

Results

Six studies were included in this meta‐analysis. Overall, 99 patients received ketamine and 96 received placebo. Ketamine did not decrease pain intensity at 4 weeks (MD (on a 0 to 10 scale) = −1.12 [−2.33, 0.09], GRADE evidence: very low). However, analysing studies with no high‐risk bias found ketamine to decrease pain intensity at 4 weeks and increased the level of GRADE evidence to moderate. Trial sequential analysis confirmed the overall result and revealed the lack of power of this meta‐analysis. Ketamine also decreased pain intensity at all other evaluated points in time. Ketamine increased the incidence of psychedelic manifestations in comparison to placebo.

Conclusion

Results of this meta‐analysis found moderate evidence suggesting the efficacy of ketamine during chronic pain. Further studies are warranted to conclude about the effect of ketamine during chronic pain conditions and to determine optimal administration regimes of this agent during this condition.

Significance

Ketamine has been found interesting for managing chronic pain. We performed a meta‐analysis aiming to confirm those results. Ketamine was found efficient in alleviating pain up to 12 weeks after the beginning of treatment. However, overall evidence favouring the use of this compound was very low.
Build a multiyear recruitment strategy that pays dividends over time
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: December 2017

BOSTON — There is no single silver bullet to building a recruitment pipeline while also increasing retention rates at your campus. “It's tempting to switch [recruitment strategies] if you don't see results in a year,” said Ronda Russell, director of admissions at Montana State University. Russell and Patricia Peek, dean of undergraduate admission at Fordham University, shared how they found success at their respective institutions by focusing on a multiyear recruitment strategy, building a focused drive to institutional success over time, at a session at the national conference for the National Association for College Admission Counseling.
Granitztal tunnel chain – Experience from the construction of the Langer Berg Tunnel and challenges in the anhydrite zone
Authors: Gschwandtner Gunter G. , Kahn Ursula , Kohlböck Bernhard , Moritz Bernd , Wagner Stefan
Published: December 2017

The Granitztal tunnel chain is located south of the Koralm Tunnel and includes the Deutsch Grutschen and Langer Berg Tunnels, which are being excavated using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM). The Langer Berg Tunnel was excavated in a rock mass containing sulphate over a length of approximately 330 m. Despite extensive exploration during site investigation of the project and the documentation from the construction of the existing Langer Berg Tunnel, which is located in the same rock mass series, unexpected anhydrite layers where found within the sulphate rock mass. In addition to a general overview of the project, the following article describes the geological and geotechnical conditions in the anhydrite rock mass as well as the adjustment of the design and implementation during construction due to the unexpectedly encountered situation.
The Koralmtunnel underground emergency stop – Geotechnical design and construction
Authors: Hölzl Harald , Pilgerstorfer Thomas , Uschan Robert , Wagner Hanns , Moritz Bernd
Published: December 2017

The Koralm Tunnel, a twin‐tube single‐track railway tunnel with an overall length of almost 33 km and a maximum overburden of about 1,200 m, closes the most significant gap of the future high‐capacity railway line from Graz to Klagenfurt, Austria. Located close to the tunnel centre, an emergency stop will provide the facilities for future travellers to be evacuated in case of an emergency. The paper discusses the challenges of the design and incorporates the current state of the ongoing construction works of the emergency stop. In addition, the structure and content of the geotechnical safety management plan, as well as the applied monitoring program are presented in detail, emphasizing the analysis of the observed system behaviour in connection with the encountered geological conditions.
Stemming the Standard‐of‐Care Sprawl
Authors: Spector‐Bagdady Kayte , De Vries Raymond , Harris Lisa Hope , Low Lisa Kane
Published: December 2017

The “best interests of the patient” standard—a complex balance between the principles of beneficence and autonomy—is the driving force of ethical clinical care. Clinicians’ fear of litigation is a challenge to that ethical paradigm. But is it ever ethically appropriate for clinicians to undertake a procedure with the primary goal of protecting themselves from potential legal action? Complicating that question is the fact that tort liability is adjudicated based on what most clinicians are doing, not the scientific basis of whether they should be doing it in the first place. In a court of law, clinicians are generally judged based on the “reasonably prudent” standard: what a reasonably prudent practitioner in a similar situation would do. But this legal standard can have the effect of shifting the medical standard of care—enabling astandard‐of‐care sprawlwhere actions undertaken for the primary purpose of avoiding liability reset the standard of care against which clinicians will be adjudicated. While this problem has been recognized in the legal literature, neither current ethical models of care nor legal theory offer workable solutions.

One of the best examples of the conflict between evidence‐based medicine and common clinical practice is the use of electronic fetal monitoring. Despite strong evidence and professional guidelines that argue against the use of EFM for healthy pregnancies, the practice persists. One of the main reasons for this is often assumed to be physicians’ concerns about liability.
Effects of high‐performance work systems on transformational leadership and team performance: Investigating the moderating roles of organizational orientations
Authors: Han Joo Hun , Liao Hui , Taylor M. Susan , Kim Seongsu
Published: November 2017

This study integrates strategic human resource management (SHRM) and transformational leadership (TFL) literatures to address gaps in each of the two literatures. Building on the concept of strategically targeted HRM systems and the contingency perspective in SHRM, we propose that an organization's high‐performance work system (HPWS) affects team managers' TFL, and that the emergence of TFL and the effectiveness of TFL on team performance are contingent on organizational adaptation and efficiency orientations. Analyses of multilevel data from 179 teams in 44 organizations revealed a positive relationship between HPWS and TFL, which was positively and negatively moderated by adaptation and efficiency orientations, respectively. Further, TFL was positively related to team performance and negatively moderated by efficiency orientation. Finally, the results supported a multilevel, moderated mediation effect with the indirect effect of HPWS on team performance via TFL varying significantly as a function of adaptation and efficiency orientations. Implications for the SHRM and leadership literatures and practice are discussed.
Wertstoffchemie: Die Rohstoffbasis sichern
Authors: Bertau Martin , Eschment Jürgen , Fröhlich Peter
Published: December 2017

Ein Rohmaterial sollte nicht je nach seiner Quelle – etwa Bergbau, Recycling oder Biomasse – unterschiedliche Parameter haben. Arbeitet ein Aufbereitungsverfahren herkunftsunabhängig, liefert es auch ebensolche Qualitäten. Ein Beispiel dafür ist die CO2‐Laugung, um LiCO3 zu gewinnen.
Selective ethylene oligomerization with in‐situ‐generated chromium catalysts supported by trifluoromethyl‐containing ligands
Authors: Choi Eung Man , Park Jong‐Eun , Park Gyeong Su , Shong Bonggeun , Kang Sung Kwon , Son Kyung‐sun
Published: November 2017

A series of pyrrole‐containing diarylphosphine and diarylphosphine oxide ligands were prepared. The catalytic activity of the corresponding in‐situ‐generated chromium catalysts was investigated during selective ethylene oligomerization reactions. Variations in the ligand system were introduced by modifying the diarylphosphine and pyrrole moieties that affect the steric and electronic properties. Minor changes in the ligand structure and the composition of activators significantly changed the catalytic activity, selectivity toward linear alpha‐olefins (LAO) versus polyethylene (PE), and the distribution of oligomeric products. The presence of trifluoromethyl groups on the diphenyl rings in ligand 3 promoted oxidation to form the corresponding phosphine oxide structure, 3o, which dramatically enhanced the catalytic activity of ethylene trimerization. The in‐situ‐generated chromium complex based on 3o activated by DMAO (dry methylaluminoxane)/TIBA (triisobutylaluminum) was used to achieve activity of about 1250 g (mmol of Cr)−1 h−1 with 98.5 mol % 1‐hexene, along with a negligible amount of PE side product. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 444–450
Microwave‐Assisted Highly Efficient Route to 4‐Aminoquinoline‐Phthalimide Conjugates: Synthesis and Anti‐Tubercular Evaluation
Authors: Rani Anu , Viljoen Albertus , Sumanjit  , Kremer Laurent , Kumar Vipan
Published: December 2017

Microwave assisted synthesis of 4‐aminoquinoline‐phthalimides was carried out in order to probe their anti‐tubercular potential. Different conditions were screened both under conventional and microwave heating and the best results were obtained by microwave heating in DMSO at 160 oC for 2 min affording the desired 4‐aminoquinoline‐phthalimides in quantitative yields. Anti‐tubercular evaluation against mc26230 strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis revealed 3 e, having an octyl chain length as spacer, to be the most potent of the synthesized compounds exhibiting MIC99 of 13.7 μM.
Adolescent health literacy and health behaviors: A systematic review
Authors: Fleary Sasha A. , Joseph Patrece , Pappagianopoulos Jessica E.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To systematically review and synthesize literature on the relationship between health literacy and health behaviors in adolescents.

Methods

Searches in PsychInfo, PUBMED/MEDLINE, and Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC) were conducted. Studies were included if they reported original data on the relationship between health literacy and a health behavior in adolescents, were written in English, and the population did not have a chronic illness or disability.

Results

Seventeen studies met inclusionary criteria. Definition and measurement of health literacy, and theoretical frameworks varied across studies. Studies investigated the relationship between functional and media health literacy and adolescent health behaviors, thirteen reported significant, linear relationships.

Conclusions

The results suggest that there is a meaningful relationship between health literacy and adolescents' health behaviors. To fully understand the role of health literacy in adolescents' health decision‐making, future research should use comprehensive definitions and measures of health literacy, and integrate health behavior and adolescent development theoretical frameworks in study design.
Differential behavioral phenotypes of dopamine D1 receptor knockdown mice at the embryonic, postnatal, and adult stages
Authors: Okubo Tadashi , Sato Asako , Okamoto Hirotsugu , Sato Toshiya , Sasaoka Toshikuni
Published: November 2017

Dopamine is widely involved in behaviors related to motor activity, cognition, motivation, and reward. Dopamine signal is transduced through the dopamine receptor gene family. The dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) is highly expressed in the striatum, and is responsible for regulating the motor function. Recently, we have reported that the knockdown (KD) mice in which D1R was conditionally eliminated at adult stage, displayed a hypoactivity in the home cage than wild type mice; however, conventional D1R knockout (KO) mice show hyperactive phenotypes. In order to assess whether the difference in the time of eliminating D1R expression affects the behavioral phenotypes, we generated D1R KD mice at the postnatal and adult stages, and compared their motor function with D1R KO mice. Consequently, D1R KD at postnatal and adult stages resulted in severe locomotive defects compared with D1R KO mice. These results suggested that D1R has versatile functions, and the knockdown timing greatly influences the normal motor activity in the adolescent to adult stages.
Longitudinal patterns of potentially inappropriate medication use following incident dementia diagnosis
Authors: Ramsey Christine M. , Gnjidic Danijela , Agogo George O. , Allore Heather , Moga Daniela
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use in older adults with dementia is an understudied area. We assessed longitudinal changes in PIM exposure by dementia type following dementia diagnosis.

Methods

We followed 2448 participants aged ≥65 years (52% women, 85.5% Caucasian, mean age 80.9 ± 7.5 years) diagnosed with dementia after enrollment in the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (2005–2014). We estimated the association between dementia type and PIM annually for 2 years after diagnosis, using Generalized Estimating Equations.

Results

Participants with Lewy body dementia had more PIM use, and participants with frontotemporal dementia had less PIM use than participants with Alzheimer's disease. In the first year following diagnosis, total number of medications increased, on average, by 10% for Alzheimer's disease and 15% for Lewy body dementia (P < .05 for both).

Discussion

A tailored approach aimed at optimizing drug therapy is needed to mitigate PIM exposure to improve medical care for individuals with dementia.
LOOKING BEYOND FARM LOAN APPROVAL DECISIONS: LOAN PRICING AND NONPRICING TERMS FOR SOCIALLY DISADVANTAGED FARM BORROWERS
Authors: ESCALANTE CESAR L. , OSINUBI ADENOLA , DODSON CHARLES , TAYLOR CARMINA E.
Published: November 2017

This study utilizes Farm Service Agency lending data to verify if previous racial and gender bias allegations still persist in more recent lending decisions. Beyond loan approval decisions, this study focuses on trends in direct loan packaging terms for approved single proprietorship farm borrowers. Results indicate that although no significant disparities were noted in loan amounts and maturities prescribed for various racial and gender minority groups, nonwhite male and female borrowers were usually charged higher interest rates than the others. Loan pricing differentials could have been the lenders' strategy for price management of borrowers' credit risks.
Preventing Respiratory Viral Transmission in Long-Term Care: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Healthcare Personnel
Authors: O’Neil Caroline A. , Kim Lindsay , Prill Mila M. , Stone Nimalie D. , Garg Shikha , Talbot H. Keipp , Babcock Hilary M.
Published: November 2017

OBJECTIVE

To examine knowledge and attitudes about influenza vaccination and infection prevention practices among healthcare personnel (HCP) in a long-term-care (LTC) setting.

DESIGN

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) survey.

SETTING

An LTC facility in St Louis, Missouri.

PARTICIPANTS

All HCP working at the LTC facility were eligible to participate, regardless of department or position. Of 170 full- and part-time HCP working at the facility, 73 completed the survey, a 42.9% response rate.

RESULTS

Most HCP agreed that respiratory viral infections were serious and that hand hygiene and face mask use were protective. However, only 46% could describe the correct transmission-based precautions for an influenza patient. Correctly answering infection prevention knowledge questions did not vary by years of experience but did vary for HCP with more direct patient contact versus less patient contact. Furthermore, 42% of respondents reported working while sick, and 56% reported that their coworkers did. In addition, 54% reported that facility policies made staying home while ill difficult. Some respondents expressed concerns about the safety (22%) and effectiveness (27%) of the influenza vaccine, and 28% of respondents stated that they would not get the influenza vaccine if it was not required.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey of staff in an LTC facility identified several areas for policy improvement, particularly sick leave, as well as potential targets for interventions to improve infection prevention knowledge and to address HCP concerns about influenza vaccination to improve HCP vaccination rates in LTCs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:1449–1456
Comments on avalanche flow models based on the concept of random kinetic energy
Authors: ISSLER DIETER , JENKINS JAMES T. , McELWAINE JIM N.
Published: November 2017

In a series of papers, Bartelt and co-workers developed novel snow-avalanche models in which random kinetic energy (RKE) RK (a.k.a. granular temperature) is a key concept. The earliest models were for a single, constant density layer, using a Voellmy model but with RK-dependent friction parameters. This was then extended to variable density, and finally a suspension layer (powder-snow cloud) was added. The physical basis and mathematical formulation of these models are critically reviewed here, with the following main findings: (i) Key assumptions in the original RKE model differ substantially from established results on dense granular flows; in particular, the effective friction coefficient decreases to zero with velocity in the RKE model. (ii) In the variable-density model, non-canonical interpretation of the energy balance leads to a third-order evolution equation for the flow depth or density, whereas the stated assumptions imply a first-order equation. (iii) The model for the suspension layer neglects gravity and disregards well-established theoretical and experimental results on particulate gravity currents. Some options for improving these aspects are discussed.
Sediment behavior controls equilibrium width of subglacial channels
Authors: DAMSGAARD ANDERS , SUCKALE JENNY , PIOTROWSKI JAN A. , HOUSSAIS MORGANE , SIEGFRIED MATTHEW R. , FRICKER HELEN A.
Published: November 2017

Flow-frictional resistance at the base of glaciers and ice sheets is strongly linked to subglacial water pressure. Understanding the physical mechanisms that govern meltwater fluxes in subglacial channels is hence critical for constraining variations in ice flow. Previous mathematical descriptions of soft-bed subglacial channels assume a viscous till rheology, which is inconsistent with laboratory data and the majority of field studies. Here, we use a grain-scale numerical formulation coupled to pore-water dynamics to analyze the structural stability of channels carved into soft beds. Contrary to the soft-bed channel models assuming viscous till rheology, we show that the flanks of till channels can support substantial ice loads without creep closure of the channel, because the sediment has finite frictional strength. Increased normal stress on the channel flanks causes plastic failure of the sediment, and the channel rapidly shrinks to increase the ice-bed contact area. We derive a new parameterization for subglacial channelized flow on soft beds and show that channel dynamics are dominated by fluvial erosion and deposition processes with thresholds linked to the plastic rheology of subglacial tills. We infer that the described limits to channel size may cause subglacial drainage to arrange in networks of multiple closely spaced channels.
Health Promotion for People with Disabilities: A Primer for Rehabilitation Counsellors
Authors: Eagle Daniel , Chan Fong , Iwanaga Kanako , Reyes Antonio , Chiu Chung-Yi , Bezyak Jill , Brooks Jessica M. , Keegan John , Muller Veronica
Published: November 2017

To engage in the community and the workplace requires physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing. Health promotion is a crucial rehabilitation counselling function for the health and wellbeing of people living with chronic illness and disability (CID). This exploratory review seeks to examine theories and models of motivation applicable to health promotion interventions in rehabilitation counselling practice. Although no single theory can address all the potential variables affecting people with CID's health behaviours, Bandura's (1977) concept of self-efficacy and outcome expectancy appear to be the most common factors in the health promotion models we surveyed. Among theories of motivation, only self-determination theory specifically includes a motivation variable, autonomy (internal and external motivation). We developed a diagram to depict a model, including all the theories and models covered in this exploratory review and identify commonalities among their constructs. This diagram can be used by rehabilitation counsellors to apply theories and models of motivation in case conceptualisation, formulating clinical hypotheses, developing treatment plans, and selecting and implementing evidence-based health promotion interventions for their clients.
Star Scheduling Mode—A New Observing Strategy for Monitoring Weak Southern Radio Sources with the AuScope VLBI Array
Authors: McCallum Lucia , Mayer David , Le Bail Karine , Schartner Matthias , McCallum Jamie , Lovell Jim , Titov Oleg , Shu Fengchun , Gulyaev Sergei
Published: November 2017

The International Celestial Reference Frame suffers from significantly less observations in the southern hemisphere compared to the northern one. One reason for this is the historically low number of very long baseline interferometry radio telescopes in the south. The AuScope very long baseline interferometry array with three new telescopes on the Australian continent and an identical antenna in New Zealand were built to address this issue. While the overall number of observations in the south has greatly improved since then, a closer look reveals that this improvement is only true for strong radio sources (source flux densities >0.6 Jy). The new array of small very long baseline interferometry antennas has a relatively low baseline sensitivity so that only strong sources can be observed within a short integration time. A new observing strategy, the star scheduling mode, was developed to enable efficient observations of weak sources during geodetic sessions, through the addition of a single more sensitive antenna to the network. This scheduling mode was implemented in the Vienna very long baseline interferometry Software and applied in four 24-h sessions in 2016. These observations provide updated positions and source flux densities for 42 weak southern radio sources and significantly reduce the formal uncertainties for these sources. The star scheduling mode now allows the AuScope very long baseline interferometry array to undertake greater responsibility in monitoring sources in the southern sky, without significantly weakening the session for geodetic purposes.
Complexities of local cultural protection in conservation: the case of an Endangered African primate and forest groves protected by social taboos
Authors: Baker Lynne R. , Tanimola Adebowale A. , Olubode Oluseun S.
Published: November 2017

Globally, some species and habitats receive protection through local belief systems (e.g. indigenous religions) and informal institutions (e.g. social norms and taboos). Where such systems represent the only form of protection for threatened species or environments, they may be critical to the survival of those taxa and sites. We evaluated the effectiveness of long-standing social taboos protecting the Endangered Sclater's monkey Cercopithecus sclateri and forest groves in a community complex in Nigeria. Across its range (southern Nigeria), Sclater's monkey is effectively protected only through informal institutions. At our study site, we conducted a census of the monkey population; measured the area of sacred groves; and compared our findings with estimates from 2010 and 2005, respectively. We observed a 36% increase in the monkey population (from 249 to 339 individuals) in a core survey area. No groves that we assessed in 2005 had been fully cleared. Although we observed a decline in tree cover for several sacred forests, most groves used regularly by monkeys had changed little. The social taboos related to monkeys and sacred groves remain largely intact; however, other factors threaten the monkey population and remaining forests in this community complex, including the removal of tree patches to accommodate the construction of large residential buildings and the demand for cropland, as well as increased dumping of waste in forested sites. This study highlights the conservation importance and limitations of local cultural protection, as well as the challenges presented when such protection conflicts with community-perceived development needs.
Duration of untreated prodromal symptoms in a Chinese sample at a high risk for psychosis: demographic, clinical, and outcome
Authors: Zhang TianHong , Xu LiHua , Tang YingYing , Cui HuiRu , Wei YanYan , Wang JunJie , Tang XiaoChen , Li ChunBo , Wang JiJun
Published: November 2017

Background

The duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) has been widely studied. However, for individuals with attenuated psychosis syndrome (APS), it is unclear whether the duration of untreated prodromal symptoms (DUPrS) also has a negative effect on the progression of psychosis. Our aim was to identify demographic and clinical factors contributing to the DUPrS in a large sample of individuals with APS, and to evaluate the association between DUPrS and the conversion to psychosis.

Method

A sample of 391 individuals with APS, who were identified through a structured interview for prodromal syndromes, were included in this study, of whom a total of 334 patients had completed at least a 1-year clinical follow-up. A total of 57 individuals had converted to psychosis.

Results

The average DUPrS was 4.8 months for the whole sample. Individuals with a longer DUPrS were likely to be men, non-local residents, with abnormal thought symptoms, a higher severity level of negative symptoms, the lower severity level of general symptoms, and lower level of general function before the onset of attenuated positive symptoms. A DUPrS of less than 2 months, or more than 6 months, lowered the risk for conversion to psychosis.

Conclusions

Our data suggested that the association between the DUPrS and outcome in individuals with APS were likely to be different, which is either long or short DUPrS was not related to future psychosis onset. Individuals with APS were more likely to have a group of features associated with a longer DUPrS.