bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High seroprevalence and associated risk factors for hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women living with HIV in Mtwara region, Tanzania
Authors: Shedura Vulstan James , Mchau Geofrey Joseph , Kamori Doreen
Published: March 2023

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection continues to be a global public health problem. As of 2019, there were 296 million people chronically infected with HBV, resulting in nearly 1 million deaths from decompensated cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. The seroprevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women in Tanzania was reported to range between 3.8 and 8.03%. However, data on HBV infection in HIV-infected pregnant women is limited. We aimed to determine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors for HBV infection among HIV-infected pregnant women in selected health facilities in the Mtwara region. This was a health facility-based quantitative cross-sectional study conducted for three months (from February to April 2022). A structured questionnaire was used to collect information from the study participants. A total of 4 ml of blood was collected for HBV screening and confirmatory tests using rapid diagnostic tests and automated Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) tests, respectively. The logistic regression model was used to identify significant variables for HBV infection.

Results

Two hundred and twenty (n = 220) pregnant women living with HIV were enrolled in this study, with a median age of 32.7 years (Interquartile range (IQR) 27.6–37.6). The seroprevalence of HBV, chronic, and acute HBV infections were 10.5%, 10.0%, and 0.5%, respectively. We found that the multiparous women [aOR 11.99: 95% CI 1.11–129.01, p = 0.040], being infected with syphilis [aOR 27.65: 95% CI 9.07–84.30, p < 0.001], and having HIV viral load of 1000 copies/ml and above [aOR 16.00: 95% CI 1.70–150.63, p = 0.015], are factors independently associated with HBV infection.

Conclusions

The overall seroprevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women was 10.5%, which is high endemicity. Furthermore, the study revealed that having more than four children, a high HIV-1 viral load of ≥ 1000cp/ml, and being infected with syphilis are significant risk factors associated with HBV infection among pregnant women living with HIV in the Mtwara region.
Instantaneous velocity determination and positioning using Doppler shift from a LEO constellation
Authors: Guo Fei , Yang Yan , Ma Fujian , Zhu Yifan , Liu Hang , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2023

To provide backup and supplementation for the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Doppler shift from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites can be used as signals of opportunity to provide positioning, navigation, and timing service. In this contribution, we first investigate the model and performance of instantaneous velocity determination and positioning with LEO satellites. Given a LEO constellation with 288 satellites, we simulate Doppler shift observations at nine multi-GNSS experiment stations. Owing to the lower orbit, the performance of LEO velocity determination is much more sensitive to the initial receiver position error than that of GNSS. Statistical results show that with the initial receiver position error increased from 0.1 to 10 m, the Root Mean Square Errors (RMSEs) increase from 0.73 to 2.65 cm/s, 0.68 to 2.96 cm/s, and 1.67 to 4.15 cm/s in the east, north, and up directions, respectively. The performances with GPS are compared with GPS + LEO, and it is found that LEO Doppler shift observations contribute to GPS velocity determination. As for LEO Doppler positioning, even if more than 30 visible LEO satellites are available, the position dilution of precision values can reach several hundreds. Assuming that the error of LEO Doppler measurements is 0.01 m/s, the instantaneous Doppler positioning accuracy can achieve about a few meters, which is comparable to that of GNSS pseudorange positioning. A constant velocity model is adopted for state transition. Static LEO Doppler positioning results show that an accuracy at centimeter to decimeter level can be achieved after solution convergence. For a static simulated kinematic positioning test, the RMSEs range from a few decimeters to several meters in different regions by giving different constraints. For a dynamic positioning test, the RMSEs are about 2–3 m in high latitude region.
A novel missense mutation in PLEKHG5 gene causing an intermediate form of autosomal-recessive Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease in an Iraqi family
Authors: Neissi Mostafa , Mabudi Hadideh , Al-Badran Adnan Issa , Mohammadi-Asl Javad , Al-Badran Raed Abdulelah
Published: March 2023

Background

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease comprises a large spectrum of clinically heterogeneous disorders. PLEKHG5 variants have shown an intermediate form of autosomal-recessive Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease C and distal spinal muscular atrophy IV. The purpose of this case study is to report a causative genetic defect associated with intermediate form of autosomal-recessive Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease C in an Iraqi consanguineous family.

Case presentation

Whole-exome and Sanger sequencing was used to identify probable gene defects in a 9-year-old male affected by CMTRIC. We found a new single mutation (c.1844C > A; p.T615N) in the PLEKHG5 gene, located in exon 17 (NM_020631.6), causing a missense mutation that has been changed one amino acid. The mutation was homozygous in the patient and heterozygous in his parents.

Conclusion

Our results expand the PLEKHG5 pathogenic mutation spectrum related to intermediate form of autosomal-recessive Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease C which is vital for screening and genetic diagnosis of the disease.
Computational coherent Raman scattering imaging: breaking physical barriers by fusion of advanced instrumentation and data science
Authors: Lin Haonan , Cheng Ji-Xin
Published: March 2023

Coherent Raman scattering (CRS) microscopy is a chemical imaging modality that provides contrast based on intrinsic biomolecular vibrations. To date, endeavors on instrumentation have advanced CRS into a powerful analytical tool for studies of cell functions and in situ clinical diagnosis. Nevertheless, the small cross-section of Raman scattering sets up a physical boundary for the design space of a CRS system, which trades off speed, signal fidelity and spectral bandwidth. The synergistic combination of instrumentation and computational approaches offers a way to break the trade-off. In this review, we first introduce coherent Raman scattering and recent instrumentation developments, then discuss current computational CRS imaging methods, including compressive micro-spectroscopy, computational volumetric imaging, as well as machine learning algorithms that improve system performance and decipher chemical information. We foresee a constant permeation of computational concepts and algorithms to push the capability boundary of CRS microscopy.
A novel case of tracheal deviation secondary to percutaneous tracheostomy
Authors: Wang Lily , Lu Justin , Ko Michael A.
Published: March 2023

Background

This is a novel case of iatrogenic airway stenosis and tracheal deviation in a patient with previous percutaneous dilational tracheostomy.

Case presentation

This 65-year-old male presented with a short segment of combined flap-valve stenosis and tracheomalacia, with right tracheal deviation distal to the stenosis. Clinical staging of the stenosis corresponded to a Cotton-Meyer grade III and McCaffrey stage III. Tracheal resection and primary reconstruction was performed by thoracic surgery and otolaryngology.

Conclusion

No cases have reported both stenosis and tracheal deviation as a result of iatrogenic intervention. The nature of this injury highlights a need for rigour in approaching tracheostomy.
Reproducibility of Glycemic Measures Among Dysglycemic Youth and Adults in the RISE Study
Authors: Tjaden Ashley H , Edelstein Sharon L , Arslanian Silva , Barengolts Elena , Caprio Sonia , Cree-Green Melanie , Lteif Amale , Mather Kieren J , Savoye Mary , Xiang Anny H , Kahn Steven E
Published: March 2023

Aims

Previous work found poor reproducibility for measures of glycemia in individuals at risk for dysglycemia. Differences between youth and adults have not been assessed. Using youth and adults in the Restoring Insulin Secretion Study, we tested variability and classification concordance for hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), fasting and 2-hour glucose from oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs).

Methods

HbA1c and glucose on repeated samples obtained ∼6 weeks apart were compared in 66 youth (mean age 14.2 years) and 354 adults (52.7 years). Changes, coefficient of variation (CV), and concordance of diagnostic categories between the 2 visits were compared.

Results

Mean difference between the 2 visits in HbA1c was higher in youth than adults (P < .001), while fasting glucose was similar and 2-hour glucose was lower in youth (P = .051). CV was smallest for HbA1c compared to fasting and 2-hour glucose. For HbA1c, youth had higher CV (P < .001); whereas CV for 2-hour glucose was lower for youth (P = .041). Classification concordance by HbA1c was lower in youth (P = .004). Using OGTT or HbA1c for classification, intervisit variability produced discordant classification in 20% of youth and 28% of adults. Using both fasting glucose and HbA1c, intervisit variability reduced discordant classification to 16% of adults while not improving classification in youth.

Conclusions

Poor reproducibility and lack of classification concordance highlight the limitations of one-time testing, with important implications for assessing eligibility in clinical trials. Consideration should be given to using more than a single parameter for screening and diagnosis, especially when classification category is important.
Intraoperative Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Rescue of a Polytrauma Patient With a Complete Right Mainstem Bronchus Avulsion: A Pediatric Case Report
Authors: Chung Stacey , Landmann Alessandra , Johnson Jeremy J. , Sisk Joseph M.
Published: March 2023

In pediatric patients experiencing blunt chest trauma, tracheobronchial avulsion injuries are rare but frequently fatal. We report the case of a 13-year-old boy who presented to our trauma center following a semitruck versus pedestrian collision. During his operative course, he developed refractory hypoxemia requiring emergency venovenous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. After stabilization, a complete right mainstem bronchus avulsion was identified and treated.
Temporally and regionally distinct morphogenetic processes govern zebrafish caudal fin blood vessel network expansion
Authors: Leonard Elvin V. , Hasan Sana Safatul , Siekmann Arndt F.
Published: March 2023

Blood vessels form elaborate networks that depend on tissue-specific signalling pathways and anatomical structures to guide their growth. However, it is not clear which morphogenetic principles organize the stepwise assembly of the vasculature. We therefore performed a longitudinal analysis of zebrafish caudal fin vascular assembly, revealing the existence of temporally and spatially distinct morphogenetic processes. Initially, vein-derived endothelial cells (ECs) generated arteries in a reiterative process requiring vascular endothelial growth factor (Vegf), Notch and cxcr4a signalling. Subsequently, veins produced veins in more proximal fin regions, transforming pre-existing artery-vein loops into a three-vessel pattern consisting of an artery and two veins. A distinct set of vascular plexuses formed at the base of the fin. They differed in their diameter, flow magnitude and marker gene expression. At later stages, intussusceptive angiogenesis occurred from veins in distal fin regions. In proximal fin regions, we observed new vein sprouts crossing the inter-ray tissue through sprouting angiogenesis. Together, our results reveal a surprising diversity among the mechanisms generating the mature fin vasculature and suggest that these might be driven by separate local cues.
Genetic dissection of triplicated chromosome 21 orthologs yields varying skeletal traits in Down syndrome model mice
Authors: Sloan Kourtney , Thomas Jared , Blackwell Matthew , Voisard Deanna , Lana-Elola Eva , Watson-Scales Sheona , Roper Daniel L. , Wallace Joseph M. , Fisher Elizabeth M. C. , Tybulewicz Victor L. J. , Roper Randall J.
Published: March 2023

Down syndrome (DS) phenotypes result from triplicated genes, but the effects of three copy genes are not well known. A mouse mapping panel genetically dissecting human chromosome 21 (Hsa21) syntenic regions was used to investigate the contributions and interactions of triplicated Hsa21 orthologous genes on mouse chromosome 16 (Mmu16) on skeletal phenotypes. Skeletal structure and mechanical properties were assessed in femurs of male and female Dp9Tyb, Dp2Tyb, Dp3Tyb, Dp4Tyb, Dp5Tyb, Dp6Tyb, Ts1Rhr and Dp1Tyb;Dyrk1a+/+/− mice. Dp1Tyb mice, with the entire Hsa21 homologous region of Mmu16 triplicated, display bone deficits similar to those of humans with DS and served as a baseline for other strains in the panel. Bone phenotypes varied based on triplicated gene content, sex and bone compartment. Three copies of Dyrk1a played a sex-specific, essential role in trabecular deficits and may interact with other genes to influence cortical deficits related to DS. Triplicated genes in Dp9Tyb and Dp2Tyb mice improved some skeletal parameters. As triplicated genes can both improve and worsen bone deficits, it is important to understand the interaction between and molecular mechanisms of skeletal alterations affected by these genes.
Social recapitulation: moulting can restore social tolerance in aggressive spiderlings
Authors: Mauduit Emilie , Jeanson Raphaël
Published: March 2023

In many taxa, the subsocial route is considered the main pathway to permanent sociality, but the relative contribution of offspring interactions and parental care to the maintenance of cohesion and tolerance at advanced developmental stages remains poorly studied. Spiders are relevant models for this question because they all show a transient gregarious phase before dispersal, and the transition to permanent sociality, which concerns approximately 20 of the ∼50,000 species, is assumed to rely on the subsocial route. Using spiderlings of the solitary species Agelena labyrinthica, we manipulated the social context to demonstrate that tolerance in aggressive juveniles can be restored when exposed to siblings after moulting. We propose that moulting can reopen closed critical periods and renew the imprinting to social cues and thus lead to the reacquisition of tolerance. Our study highlights the critical role of contacts between juveniles in the expression of tolerance, which opens novel avenues for understanding social transitions.
Balanced mitochondrial function at low temperature is linked to cold adaptation inDrosophilaspecies
Authors: Jørgensen Lisa Bjerregaard , Hansen Andrea Milena , Willot Quentin , Overgaard Johannes
Published: March 2023

The ability of ectothermic animals to live in different thermal environments is closely associated with their capacity to maintain physiological homeostasis across diurnal and seasonal temperature fluctuations. For chill-susceptible insects, such as Drosophila, cold tolerance is tightly linked to ion and water homeostasis obtained through a regulated balance of active and passive transport. Active transport at low temperature requires a constant delivery of ATP and we therefore hypothesize that cold-adapted Drosophila are characterized by superior mitochondrial capacity at low temperature relative to cold-sensitive species. To address this, we investigated how experimental temperatures from 1 to 19°C affected mitochondrial substrate oxidation in flight muscle of seven Drosophila species and compared it with a measure of species cold tolerance (CTmin, the temperature inducing cold coma). Mitochondrial oxygen consumption rates measured using a substrate–uncoupler–inhibitor titration (SUIT) protocol showed that cooling generally reduced oxygen consumption of the electron transport system across species, as was expected given thermodynamic effects. Complex I respiration is the primary consumer of oxygen at non-stressful temperatures, but low temperature decreases complex I respiration to a much greater extent in cold-sensitive species than in cold-adapted species. Accordingly, cold-induced reduction of complex I respiration correlates strongly with CTmin. The relative contribution of other substrates (proline, succinate and glycerol 3-phosphate) increased as temperature decreased, particularly in the cold-sensitive species. At present, it is unclear whether the oxidation of alternative substrates can be used to offset the effects of the temperature-sensitive complex I, and the potential functional consequences of such a substrate switch are discussed.
Englishness in mid-twentieth century detective fiction
Authors: Μιχαηλίδου Σωτηρία
Published: March 2023

Η παρούσα διατριβή εστιάζει στη μελέτη της βρετανικής αστυνομικής λογοτεχνίας του μεσοπολέμου, και κυρίως στα έργα της Αγκάθα Κρίστι, Νάιο Μαρς, Ντόροθι Σέιερς και Μάρτζερυ Άλλινγκχαμ, και στη δική τους καταγραφή της αγγλικής εθνικής ταυτότητας. Έρχεται να συμμετάσχει σε μια πολύ ζωηρή συζήτηση στον τομέα των σπουδών για τη λαϊκή κουλτούρα σχετικά με τις πολιτιστικές επιδιώξεις των κειμένων αστυνομικής λογοτεχνίας (από Βρετανίδες συγγραφείς στα μισά του εικοστού αιώνα) και παίρνει μέρος σε σύγχρονες μετα-αποικιοκρατικές συζητήσεις που έχουν ως στόχο να επαναξιολογήσουν τη συνεισφορά του συγκεκριμένου λογοτεχνικού είδους στη διαμόρφωση μιας διασπορικής και παγκοσμιοποιημένης έννοιας της Αγγλίας. Συλλογικά, αν και όχι ομοιοτρόπως, τα μυθιστορήματα αυτής της μελέτης διαβάζονται ως μέσα έκφρασης διαφόρων κοινωνικών ανησυχιών σχετικά με το γεγονός ότι η Αγγλία έχει ήδη γίνει ένας φυλετικά και πολιτιστικά αμφισβητούμενος εθνικός οίκος στο πρώτο μισό του εικοστού αιώνα. Συγκεκριμένα, συζητάται η σημασία των δύο παγκοσμίων πολέμων, της ανόδου του φασισμού και του αντισημιτισμού, των ταξιδιών προς και από τη Βρετανική Αυτοκρατορία, και των μεταβαλλόμενων φυλετικών νορμών, ιδίως σε ό,τι αφορά την κοινωνική θέση των γυναικών, στη διαμόρφωση του σύγχρονου αγγλικού έθνους. Η σημασία αυτής της μελέτης βρίσκεται στο γεγονός ότι εισάγει και επεκτείνει αναλύσεις σχετικά με την (αγγλική) εθνική ταυτότητα, και τις ιστορικές, φυλετικές και πολιτιστικές της βάσεις για την αναθεώρηση των πολιτιστικών θέσεων της λαϊκής λογοτεχνίας του εικοστού αιώνα (μέρος της οποίας είναι και η αστυνομική λογοτεχνία) που λαμβάνουν χώρα αυτόν τον καιρό. Βασιζόμενη κυρίως σε μετα-αποικιοκρατικές κριτικές θεωρίες που προσφέρουν γόνιμο έδαφος για να εξεταστεί η σχέση μεταξύ του εδώ και του εκεί, του εαυτού και του Άλλου, του κανόνα και της παρέκκλισης, τα οποία απασχολούν εντόνως και την αστυνομική λογοτεχνία, η παρούσα μελέτη ισχυρίζεται ότι, αντί να θεωρούνται ότι αναγκαστικά συνωμοτούν με την αποικιακή αυτοεικόνα μιας «λευκής» Βρετανίας, κάτι που είναι γενικά αποδεκτό, τα έργα που έγραψαν οι βασίλισσες του εγκλήματος κριτικάρουν τη δημοφιλή εικόνα μιας εσωστρεφούς αγγλικής εθνικής ταυτότητας στα μισά του εικοστού αιώνα, και την πίστη της ότι διακρίνεται από ομοιομορφία κι ομοιογένεια. Αυτά τα έργα αποκαλύπτουν τον μυθικό της χαρακτήρα, τονίζουν τα εσωτερικά της ρήγματα και, επειδή το κάνουν αυτό – όπως ισχυρίζεται η παρούσα μελέτη – αποδεικνύουν ότι εναρμονίζονται καλύτερα και διαταράσσουν τις κοινωνικές και πολιτιστικές συνθήκες περισσότερο από ότι υπονοεί ο ευρύς χαρακτηρισμός τους ως συντηρητικά ιδεολογικά και αισθητικά αντικείμενα.
Electric charging infrastructure and gender equality: An overview for USER-CHI (H2020 project)
Authors: Csillak Katharina , Kamenz Sophie
Published: March 2023

Background: The paper investigates aspects of gender equality in the implementation process of charging infrastructure with the innovative solutions for “USER centric Charging Infrastructure project” (short: USER-CHI) as reference. The USER-CHI project offers possible solutions for user-friendly e-Mobility surrounding the Mediterranean and Scandinavian Trans European Network corridors. In this regard of providing user-friendly solutions, the need for further information to recognize gender bias in the implementation process arose. Methods: Therefore, the paper combines insights from the project’s product development and a literature review results of gender bias in infrastructure and mobility planning. It aims at providing knowledge about gender-specific and diverse user needs which then can be incorporated into the design of charging infrastructure. 

Results:  The term “gender bias” is commonly understood as opinionated actions or ideas as said by the gender-grounded receptivity that women are not associated to men in status and rights. Projects in the realm of electrification of mobility and its infrastructures lack in diversity sensitivity. This paper addresses these gaps by evaluating existing datasets from the User Chi project and identifying gender bias in literature research of the mobility and transport field. Conclusions: The authors conclude that more diverse approaches are needed. Due to the limitations of the available dataset, the authors apply a differentiation between male and female usage patterns and needs in mobility solutions as a starting point. Therefore, the recommendations made in this paper focus on the accessibility of electric mobility and charging infrastructure for women while setting the goal to establish a more diverse (respectively gender neutral) access to this type of mobility.
Investigating ‘A’ Level Biology Teachers’ Content Knowledge on Biodiversity in Midlands Urban: A Case of Four Selected Teachers
Authors: Kaifa Jane M , Mukaro Joe , Parawira Wilson
Published: March 2023

This paper reports on part of an ongoing large-scale research on the need to improve science teaching and learning through investigating the Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) of biology teachers for the topic Biodiversity. Six factors have been seen to affect teacher PCK, i.e., content knowledge, knowledge of students, science teaching orientations, knowledge of assessment, knowledge of instructional strategies and knowledge of the curriculum. This research aimed to examine the teacher’s level of content knowledge (CK). A qualitative research paradigm was adopted, and a case study research design used. The case (unit of analysis) was Biology teacher CK, and the subjects were the four teacher participants purposively selected. Lesson observations, teacher interviews and learner questionnaires were used to collect data on teacher CK. A content knowledge analytical framework consisting of five constructs was designed and used to analyse the teacher CK and data triangulated with data collected from interviews and questionnaires. This research revealed that ‘A’ level Biology teachers’ CK vary from teacher to teacher depending on several factors which include teacher identity, planning, workshopping, and motivation among others. Of the four Biology teacher participants, two had adequate CK and the other two exhibited inadequate CK. Inadequate CK was attributed to lack of planning, non-exposure to workshops and lack of teacher motivation. Consequently, this research recommends supervision of teachers from school level to national level, a series of teacher workshops on the demands of the competence-based curriculum and constructive teacher identity as well as introduce factors that enhance teacher motivation. Further research on the content knowledge of Biology teachers in other learning areas is recommended.
Numerical Ratings and Content Labeling of Speeches in an Educational Public Speaking Program
Authors: Regnell Simon E.
Published: March 2023

Education in public speaking often relies largely on qualitative feedback. In this study, we explored how a numerical feedback form based on a validated scale could be used in an educational public speaking program. Data were collected at three clubs of Toastmasters International. Speech content was labeled to enable statistical analysis of correlations between speech content and audience ratings. 216 speeches by 59 speakers were evaluated by audience members, providing 1416 individual evaluations. All rating categories correlated strongly with each other. Speeches mentioning relationships, personal stories and positive emotions were rated more favorably. Speeches given in-person were rated more highly in several dimensions compared to speeches given through online video. There were some sex differences in choice of content and emotional expressiveness, but not in audience ratings of speech quality. Overall, the study found that the method was useful for both providing individual feedback and aggregated data for research purposes.
Constructive Cognitive Assessment of Learning in a Course on the Computational Cognition in Psychology Students
Authors: Morales-Martinez Guadalupe Elizabeth , Garcia-Collantes Angel , Lopez-Perez Rafael Manuel
Published: March 2023

Learning evaluation is a complex task, and this study illustrates the Constructive Assessment of Learning as a complementary alternative to evaluate the computational cognition schema construction. The authors designed a mental representational task under the Chronometric Constructive Cognitive Learning Evaluation Model. Control and experimental groups performed a conceptual definition task based on the Natural Semantic Network technique (NSN). They defined ten target concepts related to computational cognition theory, using verbs, nouns, and adjectives as definers. Afterward, the participants rated the conceptual quality of each definer one by one, on a scale of one to ten; the higher the rating, the greater the quality of the definer to define the target concept. The results indicate that the NSN technique was sensitive to measuring and discriminating cognitive changes in knowledge structures produced by the specific learning of computational cognition theory. In contrast, the learning of broad psychology subjects produced general cognitive changes without organization related to the specific learning of the evaluated course. Data showed more sophisticated cognitive change patterns on the evaluated schema in the experimental group than in the control group. The findings of this study suggest that cognitive assessment techniques can be helpful in the formative assessment of learning and provide clear indicators of students' knowledge management skills.
Evaluation of Preservice Teachers’ Performance in School through Video Observations during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Peguera-Carré Maria Carme , Coiduras Jordi , Aguilar David , Blanch Àngel
Published: March 2023

Lesson study, observation and analysis are relevant to professional development and initial teacher education. As a strategy, it helps to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The health conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic forced the restriction of the tutors’ direct observation of preservice teachers at school. This study analyses preservice teachers’ performance through video observations to evaluate their professional activity at school during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Fifteen Items Revised Tsang-Hester Observation Rubric (FIR-THOR) was administered to a sample of 166 preservice teachers in their internship schools and their video recordings each one of 45-minute teaching lessons were analysed. The results show that the FIR-THOR appears as a robust instrument, which allows us to conclude that the instrument works well in the three five-items dimensions that compose it - Instruction, Management, and Assessment - proving to be reliable for assessing teacher intervention in the classroom. Among the three dimensions, the preservice teachers’ performance stands out in the Management of the classroom, as well as in the classroom Instruction. This contribution is relevant considering the potential of lesson analysis in learning and professional development during initial teacher training.
THE SUPRASCAPULAR NERVE BLOCK (SSCNB) IS EASILY ADMINISTERED USING A LANDMARK-BASED TECHNIQUE: A CADAVERIC STUDY TO ASSESS NERVE STAINING POST-INJECTION
Authors: Brennan C.M. , Slevin Z. , Savaridas T.
Published: March 2023

The suprascapular nerve is an ideal target for nerve blockade to alleviate shoulder pain given its widespread innervation to the shoulder girdle. Many techniques have been described. To widen the availability of this treatment we investigate whether an anatomical landmark technique can be easily learned by novice injectors to provide efficacious blockade.

Five injectors were recruited with varying experience; from the novice medical student to an orthopaedic consultant. Five torsos (10 shoulders) were used. A single page of written instruction and illustration of the Dangoisse landmark technique was provided prior to injection of a Thiel embalmed cadaver bilaterally. A pre-mixed injectate with blue dye was used. Cadavers were dissected and the presence or absence of dye staining reported by 3 observers and a consensus agreement reached.

Dissection demonstrated diffuse staining in the suprascapular fossa. 90% of shoulders were found to have adequate staining of the suprascapular nerve directly, or its distal branches, in a manner which would provide adequate anaesthesia. The inter-observer agreement was good (k = 0.73) for staining at the supraspinous fossa and excellent (k=0.87) for staining distally. The technique was easily performed by novice injectors with a 100% success rate.

We demonstrate that this technique is reproducible by a range of clinicians to effectively provide anaesthesia of the SScN. The main risks are ineffective block (10% in this series) and of intravascular injection. Within a resource strained healthcare environment greater uptake of this technique is likely to be of benefit to a wider array of patients.
EFFECT OF ORAL NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTATION ON OUTCOMES IN OLDER ADULTS WITH HIP FRACTURES AND FACTORS INFLUENCING COMPLIANCE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS
Authors: Chen B. , Zhang J. H. , Duckworth A. D. , Clement N. D.
Published: March 2023

Hip fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and malnutrition is a critical determinant of these outcomes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to determine whether oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) improves postoperative outcomes in older patients with hip fracture. An electronic systematic literature search was conducted in August 2022 using four databases. Randomized trials documenting ONS in older patients with hip fracture (aged 50+) were included. Two reviewers evaluated study eligibility, data extraction and assessed study quality.

There were 812 studies identified of which 18 studies involving 1,512 patients met the inclusion criteria. The overall meta-analysis demonstrates that ONS was associated with a significant risk reduction in infective complications (odds ratio (OR) 0.54, 95%CI 0.38, 0.76), pressure ulcers (OR 0.54, 95%CI 0.33, 0.88), total complications rate (OR 0.57, 95%CI 0.42, 0.79). Length of hospital stay (LOS) was also significantly reduced (weighted mean difference (WMD) −2.01, 95%CI −3.52, −0.5), particularly in the rehabilitation LOS (WMD −4.17, 95%CI −7.08, −1.26). There was a tendency towards lower risk in mortality (OR 0.93, 95%CI 0.62, 1.4) and readmission (OR 0.52, 95%CI 0.16, 1.73), though statistical significance was not achieved. The overall compliance to ONS ranged from 64.1% to 100%, but no factors influencing compliance were identified.

This systematic review was the first to quantitatively demonstrate that ONS reduces half the risk of infective complications, pressure ulcers, total complication rate and reduces LOS. ONS should be a regular and integrated part of medical practice, especially given that the compliance to ONS is acceptable.
Letter to the Editor: Structural transitions of the vitreous state
Authors:   University of Reading, Wright Adrian C. , Vedishcheva Natalia M. ,   Institute of Silicate Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: March 2023

The presence of structural nanoheterogeneity means that sharp structural transitions at a well defined temperature or composition are an anathema to the vitreous state. Hence they should not be expected, but rather an extended transition, whose width is defined by the form and length scale of the relevant nanoheterogeneity. It should also be noted that all of the vitreous state transitions considered here, together with crystallisation at the melting point, are spatially non-uniform. This behaviour should be compared to sharp transitions that occur within the crystalline state, for example the displacive transition between α- and β-quartz, and those from a paramagnetic to a magnetically-ordered state. Such sharp transitions involve simultaneous co-operative movements across a large number identical unit cells, and hence cannot occur in the absence of a periodic structure. As a result, they are sensitive to disorder within individual unit cells, as may be seen from the case of cristobalite, where the presence of disorder reduces the αβ transition temperature, and in extremis inhibits the transition from β- to α-cristobalite.
Atomistic nature of amorphous graphite
Authors:   Ohio University, Ugwumadu C. , Nepal K. , Thapa R. , Drabold D. A.
Published: March 2023

This paper focuses on the structural, electronic, and vibrational features of amorphous graphite [R. Thapa et al, Phys. Rev. Lett., 2022, 128, 236402]. The structural order in amorphous graphite is discussed and compared with graphite and amorphous carbon. The electronic density of states and localization in these phases were analyzed. Spatial projection of charge densities in the π bands showed a high charge concentration on participating atoms in connecting hexagons. A vibrational density of states was computed and is potentially an experimentally testable fingerprint of the material. An analysis of the vibrational modes was carried out using the phase quotient, and the mode stretching character. The average thermal conductivity calculated for aG was 0·85 and 0·96 W/cmK at room temperature and 1000 K, respectively.
Evaluación de la Presencia de los Sitios Web de Turismo de Costa de España en los Motores de Búsqueda
Authors: Molina-Pérez Lucía , Casado-Díaz Ana B. , Sellers-Rubio Ricardo
Published: March 2023

Las webs de las organizaciones de promoción del destino turístico suponen en muchos casos el primer contacto entre el turista y el destino. El presente trabajo analiza el posicionamiento en buscadores de dichas webs y propone un índice de visibilidad para las mismas. El análisis se lleva a cabo en tres marcos geográficos diferenciados: la provincia de Alicante, la Comunidad Valenciana y los destinos de costa del resto de regiones españolas. Los resultados muestran diferencias significativas en el posicionamiento en buscadores de las webs examinadas.
Antecedents of Tourists’ Perceived Risks: Experience from Tanzania
Authors: Mlozi Shogo
Published: March 2023

This study seeks to determine the perceived risks of tourists visiting Tanzania based on their demographic characteristics by using a five-dimensional framework of tourists’ perceived risk. Data was gathered from 136 international tourists through convenient sampling. The perceived risks studied include political risks, performance risks, physical health risks, plan risks, and financial risks. This study has identified significant differences in the tourists’ perceived risks because of gender, age, level of education, income, past travel experience, number of visits, travel companionship, and nationality, which are discussed in this paper. The findings are expected to assist the policymakers, marketing managers, tourists service providers and other stakeholders in Tanzania’s tourism industry must consider. Other studies in the future may use different sampling techniques; also, a follow-up study may be carried out to find how the situation relating to the risks has improved over time. Finally, this study focused on five types of risks; thus, other studies may look at more types of risks
Turismo sostenible en jurisdicciones de islas pequeñas con especial referencia a Malta
Authors: Briguglio Lino
Published: March 2023

El presente artículo versa sobre el delicado equilibrio entre el beneficio económico y el daño medioambiental del turismo, con especial referencia a las jurisdicciones de islas pequeñas. La mayoría de actividades económicas tienen un impacto negativo en el ambiente y muy a menudo este daño medioambiental repercute de forma indeseable en la economía. Esto es especialmente cierto en el caso de la industria turística que depende fuertemente de los servicios medioambientales. El artículo trata de las dependencias del turismo en las jurisdicciones de islas pequeñas y evalúa los impactos medioambientales y económicos del turismo en Malta. El artículo asimismo sugiere medidas preventivas y correctoras para la promoción de turismo sostenible. El artículo finaliza con la nota optimista que el propio turismo está aguzando nuestra conciencia sobre los males de la degradación medioambiental, y esto podría conducir a la adopción de políticas y medidas de turismo sostenible.
Caribbean Delight: Moving Beyond the Sustainability Discourse in Tourism
Authors: Roessingh Carel , Duijnhoven Hanneke , Berendse Myrte
Published: March 2023

En la literatura del turismo se presta mucha atención a los diferentes acercamientos al desarrollo del turismo, especialmente cuando nos referimos a países en vías de desarrollo. Se sostiene a menudo que es necesario un enfoque basado en la sostenibilidad, por lo cual se remarca que se preste especial atención a cómo influyen las organizaciones de turismo (y cómo son influenciadas) tanto por el entorno natural como el cultural y el económico en el que se sitúan. Aunque los debates sobre las formas sostenibles de desarrollo turístico son un camino positivo para el sector turístico, en este artículo analizaremos porqué estos debates no contribuirán realmente al progreso del sector mientras haya una carencia de agentes locales de tales destinos turísticos. Presentando datos empíricos sobre Belice y la República Dominicana, el objetivo es ir más allá del dominante discurso sobre la sostenibilidad en el ámbito turístico, en el que el turismo de masas es por definición “malo” y el turismo a menor escala es “bueno”, y hacer una incursión en lo que realmente está sucediendo a nivel micro.
Ética y mediación cultural en el ámbito turístico. Los mediadores del ocio turístico y el animador turístico
Authors: Puertas Xavier
Published: March 2023

La realidad cultural de una zona es argumento más que suficiente para singularizar una oferta turística, aunque por varias circunstancias se realizan prácticas que han llegado a desvirtuar ese potencial inicial, en arras de un beneficio turístico mucho más cercano a una estandarización popular. Este hecho está relacionado con una discutida práctica ética de la industria del ocio y sus promotores.Las experiencias en este sentido no se limitan a un país concreto, sino que se ha practicado en muchas destinaciones turísticas ya consolidadas. Sus consecuencias en la actualidad pueden ser de un alcance insospechado, ya que el turista cada vez tiene más información sobre el contexto en el que se encuentra la destinación, y tiende a valorar más la autenticidad y la singularidad.Entre esos atractivos turísticos y los viajeros se sitúan los intermediaros y los promotores; las empresas en las que se emplazan los auténticos vehiculadores de las propuestas, que dispuestos a dinamizar la destinación ponen en valor muchos de los aspectos potenciales de la zona. Es el contexto de los mediadores turísticos que actúan desde tres áreas bien distintas: la administración, las agencias y los establecimientos de alojamiento. De las tres tipologías, la tercera es la que define a los animadores turísticos, uno de los perfiles menos analizados, aunque pieza clave del engranaje turístico.Sus funciones esenciales (relación, producción y organización) son las que han de posibilitar las propuestas adecuadas, decorosas y reales para que la mediación ejercida sea lo más auténtica y fiel al contexto cultural en el que se encuentra el establecimiento, y posibilitando una óptima dinamización que afecte positivamente al viajero, a la zona y a las intenciones mercantilistas de las empresas que ejercen su mediación.
Suministros determinantes de la economía turística de islas pequeñas
Authors: Parry Courtney E. , McElroy Jerome L.
Published: March 2023

Durante más de 20 años, lo que se estudia sobre las economías isleñas ha sido dominado por el modelo MIRAB (Bertram y Watters, 1985), el cual sugiere que las islas pequeñas subsisten del dinero enviado del exterior por ciudadanos que residen en el extranjero y por las ayudas de países metropolitanos. El presente estudio ofrece una alternativa al modelo MIRAB: la economía de islas pequeñas impulsadas por el turismo, o SITE, y trata de explicar sus características empleando tres análisis empíricos: (1) la diferencia de las medias entre las islas caribeñas, generalmente más desarrolladas, y las islas del Pacifico y del Océano Indio, en general menos penetradas; (2) el análisis del índice de la penetración turística considerando 39 islas pequeñas de menos de 3 millones de población; y (3) el análisis estadístico de regresión que identifica las variables del éxito de las islas pequeñas impulsadas económicamente por el turismo (SITE): dependencia política, contornos turísticos no abarrotados, adecuada infraestructura turística, geografía favorable, y sociedad económicamente próspera.
Integración de la sostenibilidad en el negocio de los turoperadores: Acercamiento innovador en turismo sostenible
Authors: Khairat Ghada , Maher Azza
Published: March 2023

Los turoperadores son el elemento clave del sistema turístico; son el nexo entre el turista y el destino. Como resultado, los turoperadores son, de muchas maneras, la clave para conseguir más formas de turismo sostenible. El objetivo de este estudio es examinar la experiencia real de los turoperadores que han adoptado prácticas de sostenibilidad en sus negocios con los propósitos de: 1) Identificar las áreas de implementación prioritarias; 2) Determinar los motivadores más importantes que animan a los turoperadores a adoptar estrategias más responsables; 3) Explorar los resultados y beneficios así como también los mayores obstáculos y barreras que dificultan la integración de estrategias de sostenibilidad en el negoción de los turoperadores. Para este estudio 32 turoperadores han sido investigados. Además, se realizaron entrevistas en profundidad con stakeholders de las destinaciones para reflejar su experiencia. Los resultados revelaron que “Gestión de la cadena de suministros” tiene la prioridad para los turoperadores durante la implementación de prácticas de sostenibilidad. “Construir una imagen pública positiva” es la razón principal para implementar la integración de la sostenibilidad en el negocio. Los resultados también sugieren numerosos beneficios tanto para los turoperadores como para las destinaciones. De todas formas, los dos se encuentran con un número de barreras que los disuade a la hora de aplicar principios sostenibles en el negocio de los turoperadores a gran escala con mayor eficiencia.
Turismo de Naturaleza. Complemento por exelencia de los productos de Sol y Playa del Caribe
Authors: Medina Norman , Santamarina Jorge
Published: March 2023

Los productos de Turismo de Sol y playa están en plena fase de madurez y, en algunas modalidades y regiones, están mostrando tendencias a la declinación. La experiencia del desarrollo de los productos turísticos indica  que  una  forma   de   cambiar   esa   tendencia es rediseñándolos, complementándolos  con  otros que puedan enriquecerlos y convertirlos en nuevos productos. Por sus características, los productos de Turismo de Naturaleza son los más indicados para jugar ese papel en el Caribe, que posee escenarios naturales variados, espectaculares y únicos.
Un estudio exploratorio de los problemas globales que impactan en el futuro del turismo de Aruba
Authors: Murphy Kevin S.
Published: March 2023

La competitividad mundial, la política exterior internacional, los datos demográficos en cambio constante y el medio ambiente surgieron como preocupación principal en los grupos de expertos de Visioning the Future of Aruba. El objetivo general de estos grupos era identificar y describir las fuerzas que impulsan cambios, métodos competitivos y las principales capacidades que afectan a la industria de turismo de Aruba en los próximos diez años. Para conseguir estos objetivos, 35 líderes de la industria de turismo de Aruba se juntaron para formar los mencionados grupos durante un período de dos años.Los resultados del Foro demostraron que hay un eslabón claro entre las fuerzas ambientales y el impacto que éstas tienen en los negocios de turismo instalados en Aruba. La industria de turismo en Aruba afronta grandes desafíos en un ambiente que cambia rápidamente. Los participantes reconocieron la creciente dificultad asociada al mantenimiento de una ventaja competitiva en la industria de turismo y afirmaron que será necesario posicionarse en nuevos métodos creativos competitivos como una inversión en el futuro de Aruba. El grupo estuvo de acuerdo en que se necesitan en un futuro cuatro métodos competitivos para su desarrollo: destino ecológicamente responsable, desarrollo sostenible, seguridad, crecimiento y competitividad sostenible.
Nuevas ciudades de vacaciones. El caso de Marina d’Or
Authors: Beltran Lidia , Roca Josep
Published: March 2023

Desde el principio del turismo como una actividad masiva a mediados del siglo XIX, nuevas destinaciones turísticas han aparecido para satisfacer el turismo en masa. Entre los diferentes desarrollos urbanos que han tenido lugar hasta ahora, el objetivo de este artículo es reflexionar en el modelo de desarrollo turístico que se está expandiendo internacionalmente, las Nuevas ciudades de vacaciones. Estos asentamientos urbanos pueden alcanzar grandes dimensiones de tamaño y población, así pues producir un impacto económico, político y medioambiental apreciable en su entorno. Pero ¿qué hay del impacto social que estas NCVs suponen?A través del análisis de este caso específico, Marina d’Or, los aspectos sociales fueron investigados con ayuda de un método cuantitativo, la encuesta: usuario tipo, frecuencia de residentes en la ciudad; relación con los vecinos; intensidad de uso del espacio público y su satisfacción y valoración del espacio urbano. Finalmente con metodología cualitativa, Observación activa, la diversidad de su espacio urbano y las maneras de habitar fueron analizadas.
Selling Global Seoul: Competitive Urban Policy and Symbolic Reconstruction of Cities
Authors: Križnik Blaž
Published: March 2023

El artículo se centra en el proceso de reconstrucción simbólica de las ciudades, donde la imagen o significado de algunos lugares se ve intencionalmente transformado con el objetivo de atraer nuevas inversiones, eventos o turistas a una ciudad en particular. Intentamos situar el proceso dentro del contexto de la creciente competitividad de las ciudades. La reconstrucción simbólica también afecta al desarrollo del turismo en las ciudades al proveer una imagen y un significado al lugar de fácil comercialización y consumo. El caso de la restauración de Cheonggyecheon en Seúl nos ayuda a estudiar cómo la reconstrucción simbólica de las ciudades está relacionada y se ve afectada por las políticas de competitividad urbana de las ciudades, la renovación urbana y el marketing de ciudades. Al observar las consecuencias locales concluimos que, si bien la restauración de Cheonggyecheon y la resultante reconstrucción simbólica ayudaron a convertir Cheonggyecheon en el mayor atractivo turístico e ícono global de Seúl, también resultaron en el declive de lugares y culturas locales, contradiciendo en este sentido sus objetivos iniciales.