bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Teaching Patients’ Rights to Midwifery Students on Their Compliance with Patients’ Rights at Fatemieh Hospital, Hamadan, Iran
Authors: Rostami-Moez Masoumeh , Oshvandi Khodayar , Niazy Ziba , Shayan Arezoo , Masoumi Seyedeh Zahra
Published: October 2021

Background: Medical ethics has emphasized the necessity of respecting patients’ rights. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effect of teaching patients’ rights to midwifery students on their compliance with patients’ rights in Fatemieh Maternity Hospital in Hamadan. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was performed on all of the midwifery students in the last academic year in 2018. Also, a sample population of 300 pregnant women who were hospitalized for normal vaginal delivery (150 cases in the control group and 150 in the intervention group) was included. A researcher-made checklist was used for assessing compliance with patients’ rights, which was completed for midwifery students before and after training. Also, pregnant women's satisfaction was assessed using a questionnaire. A workshop in two days was implemented for the midwifery students group about the patients' rights charter. Data were analyzed with SPSS 16 software. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups of pregnant women in terms of education, age, gravida, and para (P > 0.05). The mean score of the adequate services had a significant difference between the before and after training (P < 0.01). The other dimension of patients’ rights was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). There was a significant difference in pregnant women’s satisfaction in psychological domain (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The patients’ rights charter workshop for midwifery students is recommended to improve awareness of them and patient satisfaction.
Adaptation strategies for people: mitigating climate-change-related risks in low-income and informal urban communities through co-production
Authors: Garcia Ferrari Soledad , Kaesehage Katharina , Crane De Narvaez Stephanie , Bain Amelia A.
Published: October 2021

Traditional top-down strategies to reduce climate-change-related risks have often failed to produce tangible results in vulnerable urban areas of the Global South. Approaches based on the co-production of adaptation solutions between diverse stakeholders offer promising alternative strategies. This contribution draws on our experiences in growing informal and low-income urban areas in two Latin American cities, Medell�n (Colombia) and Puebla (Mexico). These communities lack adequate access to clean water and are exposed to risks related to increasingly frequent high-intensity rainfall events, making water management a key consideration for risk reduction. However, the factors driving insufficient water access and the perceptions of risks vary in each location, demonstrating the need for context-specific solutions. We explore how increasing community agency and co-creating knowledge for risk management between diverse stakeholders at a range of geographical scales can contribute to redressing existing social and environmental injustices, by identifying, implementing, and scaling up technically appropriate and culturally sustainable solutions aimed at reducing climate-change-related risks.
Investissement, anticipation, planification : la politique temporelle des activités extractives
Authors: Laurent1 Brice , Merlin2 Julien
Published: October 2021

Comme dans de nombreux domaines technologiques et industriels, l’exploration et l’exploitation minières s’appuient sur des instruments censés prévoir et organiser les développements futurs et leurs conséquences. Dans cet article, nous nous intéressons à trois formes de mobilisation du futur dans le cadre de ces activités et de leurs contestations : 1) l’investissement, caractérisé par le calcul des profits futurs et la place centrale accordée aux risques susceptibles de les remettre en cause ; 2) l’anticipation, qui associe l’activité extractive à des considérations plus larges susceptibles de faire émerger des questionnements nouveaux et une autre définition des risques ; 3) la planification, qui consiste à organiser l’activité minière en fonction d’objectifs à atteindre, tels que le développement territorial, par exemple. En se fondant sur plusieurs terrains (France métropolitaine, Nouvelle-Calédonie, Guyane), cet article propose de montrer qu’une analyse des formes de mobilisation du futur permet de repenser le problème bien connu des relations entre les entreprises minières, l’environnement et les populations concernées.
Interaction of N with White-solidified Cast Iron Model Alloys: The Effect of Mn and Cu on the Formation of Fe and Si Nitrides
Authors: Kante Stefan , Leineweber Andreas
Published: October 2021

Surface remelting and subsequent nitriding improves the surface properties of cast irons. Upon remelting, a white-solidified surface layer forms, which contains coarse Si-free eutectic cementite (θ) and Si-enriched ferrite, pearlite or martensite in the intercarbidic regions between the eutectic θ. Nitriding produces a compound layer at the surface, which is composed of ε and γ’-iron (carbo)nitrides and enhances the corrosion resistance. Nitriding of white-solidified Fe-C-Si alloys, being model materials for remelted low-alloy ferritic cast irons, has shown that Si dissolved in α-Fe notably affects the formation of ε and γ’ in intercarbidic regions while Si simultaneously precipitates as amorphous nitride, X. Under process conditions only allowing for the formation of γ’ in pure Fe, Si dissolved in α-Fe promotes the formation of ε over the formation γ’, whereas Si-free eutectic θ transforms into nitride following the sequence θ → ε → γ’. The present work studies the nitriding of white-solidified Fe-3.5wt.%C-3wt.%-M alloys with additions of M = 1 wt.% Mn, 1 wt.% Cu or 1 wt.% Mn + 1 wt.% Cu, serving as model materials for remelted pearlitic cast irons. The presence of Mn and/or Cu causes notable deviations from the nitriding behavior known from Fe-C-Si alloys. Mn accelerates the precipitation of X in intercarbidic regions and obstructs the transformation of ε formed from Si-free θ into γ’. Cu promotes the formation of γ’ in Si-rich intercarbidic regions, surpassing the ε-promoting effect of Si.
Can Published Population Pharmacokinetic Models of Busulfan Be Used for Individualized Dosing in Chinese Pediatric Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation? An External Evaluation
Authors: Huang Huiping , Liu Maobai , Ren Jinhua , Hu Jianda , Lin Shenglu , Li Dandan , Huang Weikun , Chen Shaozhen , Yang Ting , Wu Xuemei
Published: October 2021

Busulfan is a bifunctional alkylating agent that is widely used before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), in combination with other chemotherapeutic drugs. As of 2020, there is no population pharmacokinetic (popPK) model for busulfan in Chinese pediatric patients. A systemic external evaluation of 11 published popPK models was conducted in Chinese pediatric patients undergoing HSCT. Forty pediatric patients were enrolled in this study, with a total of 183 blood concentrations. The relative prediction error (PE%), median PE%, median absolute PE%, and percentage of PE% within ±20% and ±30% were calculated in prediction‐based diagnostics. Simulation‐based diagnostics were conducted through a prediction‐ and variability‐corrected visual predictive check and the normalized prediction distribution error. The relative individual prediction error was calculated using Bayesian forecasting with 1 to 3 concentration points. The 1‐compartment open linear popPK model, which was built by Su‐jin Rhee et al (model H), incorporating the patient's body surface area, age, dosing day, and aspartate aminotransferase as significant covariates had preferable predictability than other popPK models. In prediction‐based diagnostics, the median PE%, percentage of PE% within ±20%, and percentage of PE% within ±30% of model H were 8.48%, 45.35%, and 59.56%, respectively. The normalized prediction distribution error of model H showed that it followed the normal distribution. Based on Bayesian forecasting, model H showed good predictive performance. Thus, model H was the most appropriate model that can be used clinically for individualized dosage adjustments in Chinese pediatric HSCT patients.
Multi‐period closed‐loop supply chain network equilibrium considering CSR investment and sharing mechanism
Authors: Duan Caiquan , Yao Fengmin , Li Zhongqiu , Yu Hui
Published: October 2021

This study explores the impact of CSR investment and sharing mechanism on multi‐period CLSC network equilibrium. We establish a network equilibrium model in which manufacturers and retailers jointly undertake CSR. Numerical examples are applied to analyze the model. The results show that an increase in CSR is conducive to increasing product demand and recovery rate as well as achieving the social welfare maximization of the system. When retailers undertake more CSR, CSR is more effective in increasing utility in the system; particularly, when retailers undertake more CSR in earlier periods, this helps to increase the recovery rate and social welfare.
Perceptions of open‐source software developers on collaborations: An interview and survey study
Authors: Constantino Kattiana , Souza Mauricio , Zhou Shurui , Figueiredo Eduardo , Kästner Christian
Published: October 2021

With the emergence of social coding platforms, collaboration has become a key and dynamic aspect to the success of software projects. In such platforms, developers have to collaborate and deal with issues of collaboration in open‐source software development. Although collaboration is challenging, collaborative development produces better software systems than any developer could produce alone. Several approaches have investigated collaboration challenges, for instance, by proposing or evaluating models and tools to support collaborative work. Despite the undeniable importance of the existing efforts in this direction, there are few works on collaboration from perspectives of developers. In this work, we aim to investigate the perceptions of open‐source software developers on collaborations, such as motivations, techniques, and tools to support global, productive, and collaborative development. Following an ad hoc literature review, an exploratory interview study with 12 open‐source software developers fromGitHub, our novel approach for this problem also relies on an extensive survey with 121 developers to confirm or refute the interview results. We found different collaborative contributions, such as managing change requests. Besides, we observed that most collaborators prefer to collaborate with the core team instead of their peers. We also found that most collaboration happens in software development (60%) and maintenance (47%) tasks. Furthermore, despite personal preferences to work independently, developers still consider collaborating with others in specific task categories, for instance, software development. Finally, developers also expressed the importance of the social coding platforms, such asGitHub, to support maintainers, and contributors in making decisions and developing tasks of the projects. Therefore, these findings may help project leaders optimize the collaborations among developers and reduce entry barriers. Moreover, these findings may support the project collaborators in understanding the collaboration process and engaging others in the project.
Introducing Well-being Data
Authors: Oman Susan
Published: October 2021

Well-being data are often our data, in that they are personal data about us—and their collection requires our time and consideration. We are increasingly aware of data’s role in our everyday lives, yet we lack a shared understanding of data and well-being and how they are linked. This chapter illustrates that data don’t just represent society, but they actually change society, culture and our values in ways we cannot see. This chapter discusses who the book is for, what it is trying to do, how the book should be used, its structure and key arguments. Data collection and uses are value-laden exercises and this chapter guides the reader on how this book can help them judge what well-being data mean for them.
Discovering ‘the New Science of Happiness’ and Subjective Well-being
Authors: Oman Susan
Published: October 2021

The ‘new science of happiness’ was not really discovered, but was a coming together of people, publications, projects, politicians, agencies and disciplines around the turn of the twenty-first century. This moment foregrounded the issue of how people feel (subjective well-being), changing how this is understood and measured, driving the ‘second wave’ of well-being. This chapter reviews these interlinked histories to contextualise the ‘new’ well-being data. It presents definitions, theories and methods to help understand what went on behind the scenes and under the bonnet of these data practices. We look at the establishment of the UK’s subjective well-being measures and address the question of what subjective well-being can do that differs from previous well-being measures.
Life Cycle Assessment Benchmark for Wooden Buildings in Europe
Authors: Schau Erwin M. , Niemelä Eva Prelovšek , Niemelä Aarne Johannes , Alencar Gavric Tatiana Abaurre , Šušteršič Iztok
Published: October 2021

Climate change and other environmental problems from the production of raw materials, construction, and end of life of buildings are serious concerns that need to be solved urgently. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and the EU-recommended Environmental Footprint (EF) are well-known and accepted tools to measure a comprehensive set of environmental impacts throughout a product’s life cycle. But to assess how good (or bad) a wooden building performs environmentally is still a challenge. In the EU Environmental Footprint [11] pilot phase from 2013 to 2018, an average benchmark for the different product groups was found to be very useful. Based upon the recommendations for a benchmark of all kinds of European dwellings, we developed a scenario of a typical European wooden building. The EU Environmental Footprint method covers 16 recommended impact categories and can be normalized and weighted into one single point for easy and quick comparisons. The results are presented as the average impact per one square meter (m2) of floor area over 1 year. The developed benchmark for wooden buildings is a suitable comparison point for new wooden building designs. The benchmark can be used by architects and designers early in the planning stages when changes can still be made to improve the environmental performance of wooden buildings or the communication and interpretation of LCA results for customers and other stakeholders.
Enhancing Social-Environmental-Economical Systemic Vision: Applying OLCA in a NGO
Authors: Gil-Valle José Manuel , Chargoy-Amador Juan Pablo
Published: October 2021

Emmaüs International a non-governmental organization (NGO) in the social and environmental sector had practiced, since its foundation – now more than 60 years – the recuperation of objects that others consider as waste. This activity had allowed collecting the funds to help the needy giving them the means to find their dignity that society had taken. Nowadays, the modes had changed, and these recovery activities had made of Emmaüs movement a well-known actor against the non-controlled waste “an environmental actor” working in the reuse and recycling. Given its environmental focus, Emmaüs has interest in assessing the environmental impacts of its own activities throughout the whole value chain. Therefore, an organizational life cycle assessment (O-LCA) study had been conducted as a test in one Emmaüs community. The study was realized in the framework of the road testing of the UNEP/SETAC Guidance on Organizational Life Cycle Assessment. It is important to mention that the avoided burdens assessment is not part of the O-LCA method.
Dynamic and Localized LCA Information Supports the Transition of Complex Systems to a More Sustainable Manner Such as Energy and Transport Systems
Authors: Jaeger Florian Ansgar , Sonntag Cornelia , Hartung Jörn , Müller Katrin
Published: October 2021

The paper gives a snapshot of the potential of LCA (life cycle assessment) data-based optimizations in control systems. The environmental burden of existing infrastructure can be significantly reduced during use phase. Four Siemens’ applications in different fields with different lead indicators show how LCA assessments can be adapted to fulfil the requirements of such applications. The applications are power and air quality management use cases in the field of eMobility, building management, industrial process control and traffic management. The main methodological challenge solved is the provision of the necessary temporal and special resolution, as well as forecasting of parameters for scheduling of processes.
Epilogue: This Educator’s Credo
Authors: Chazan Barry
Published: October 2021

The virtue of analytic philosophy of education is its contribution to clarifying the descriptive meanings of important words, terms, and concepts related to education. The limitation of analytic philosophy of education is that it does not take a stand, advocate beliefs, or inspire educators as to what education might be. This chapter presents the personal beliefs and credo of one analytic educational philosopher about the potential of education to make our world a better place.
What Is “Philosophy of Education”?
Authors: Chazan Barry
Published: October 2021

Philosophy of education refers to the systematic process of understanding and explicating key concepts related to educational practice. Analytic philosophy of education is a contemporary approach to this task and is the technique used in this book to explain key educational concepts.
What Is “the Israel Experience”?
Authors: Chazan Barry
Published: October 2021

Educational travel to Israel has become an important framework for American Jewish education. In this chapter, the core components of this Israel educational experience are analyzed.
Forschungsstand, Hypothesen und Forschungsmodell
Authors: Albisser Matthias
Published: October 2021

In diesem Kapitel werden unter Berücksichtigung der theoretischen Grundlagen und des aktuellen Forschungsstandes Hypothesen über die Wirkung von Brand Content auf das Markenimage hergeleitet.
Knockdown of vitamin D receptor genes impairs touch-evoked escape behavior in zebrafish
Authors: Kwon Hye-Joo
Published: October 2021

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone well-known for its role in calcium homeostasis and bone health. Biological actions of vitamin D are mediated through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) present in various cells and tissues. Vitamin D has been implicated in multiple aspects of neuromuscular functions. This study aimed to investigate the role of VDR signaling during early stage of locomotor development utilizing a gene knockdown approach. Zebrafish larvae deficient in VDR showed severe motor impairment and no obvious response to touch. These results indicate that VDR signaling is indispensable for the correct neuromuscular development and touch-evoked escape swimming behavior in zebrafish.
Farm typology for planning targeted farming systems interventions for smallholders in Indo-Gangetic Plains of India
Authors: Kaur Jashanjot , Prusty A. K. , Ravisankar N. , Panwar A. S. , Shamim M. , Walia S. S. , Chatterjee S. , Pasha M. L. , Babu Subhash , Jat M. L. , López-Ridaura Santiago , Groot Jeroen C. J. , Toorop Roos Adelhart , Barba-Escoto Luis , Noopur Kohima , Kashyap Poonam
Published: October 2021

Due to complexity of smallholder farms, many times technologies with great potential fail to achieve the desired impact in leveraging productivity and profitability of the farming community. In the Indo-Gangetic Plains there is an urgent need to understand the diversity of farm households, identifying the main drivers deciding their system thus, classifying them into homogenous groups. In the present study, the diversity of smallholder farms was assessed using crop, livestock and income related characteristics and associated farm mechanization. Using principal component analysis and cluster analysis for 252 farm households, 4 farm types were identified i.e. Type 1. Small Farm households with cereal-based cropping system and subsistence livestock (39%), Type 2. Small Farm households with diversified cropping system dominated by cereal and fodder crops with only cattle herd (9%), Type 3. Marginal Farm household with diversified cropping system dominated by cash crop and herd comprising of only cattle (39%), Type 4. Marginal Farm household with diversified cropping system dominated by cereal crops and herd dominated by small ruminants (12%). Based on the constraints identified for different components of farming systems, low-cost interventions were planned for each farm type. These interventions have resulted in 84.8–103.2 per cent increase in the income of the farm HH under study suggesting usefulness of typology-based intervention planning in increasing income of small farm holders.
Mortality and heart failure in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation. Impact of RV volumes and function by CMR
Authors: Hinojar Baydes R , Garcia-Martin A , Gonzalez-Gomez A , Monteagudo J M , Pascual-Izco M , Alonso-Salinas G , Rivas Garcia S , Fernandez-Mendez M A , Garcia De Vicente A , Zamorano J L , Fernandez-Golfin C
Published: October 2021

Background and objectives

Right ventricle (RV) dilatation and dysfunction are established criteria for intervention in patients with significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR); however defined thresholds to support intervention are lacking. As a result the optimal timing for surgery in TR remains controversial and surgery is commonly undertaken at a late stage.

Purpose

To describe predictive cut-off values of RV size and function of poor prognosis in asymptomatic patients with significant TR.

Methods

Consecutive patients in stable clinical condition evaluated in the Heart Valve Clinic with significant TR (severe, massive or torrential TR) undergoing a Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) study were included. Conventional parameters of biventricular volume and function were assessed in all patients. A combined endpoint of hospital admission due to right heart failure and cardiovascular mortality was defined.

Results

75 patients were included in this study (age 75±8 years, 75% female, 91% functional TR). During a median follow-up of 3 years (IQR: 1.4–3.9 years), 39% of the patients (n=29) experienced the combined endpoint. After adjusting for age and LVEF in a multivariate Cox proportional model, RV-EDV and RVEF were independently associated with cardiovascular mortality and heart failure. Thresholds of RV-EDV ≥100 ml/m2, RV-ESV ≥40 ml/m2 and RVEF ≤58% held the best accuracy to predict outcomes (figure 1). Regression spline model for RVEF and outcomes are presented in the figure 2. They show that RV function negatively impacted event-free survival, with an increase in the HR spline function near the crossing value (red line, RVEF ≤58%). In multivariable analysis, following adjustment for age and LVEF, a value of RVEF ≤58% and RV-EDV ≥100 ml/m2, was associated with 2.29, and 3.91-fold increased risk of heart failure or cardiovascular death respectively (RVEF Hazard Ratio (HR): 2.29 [1.06–4.9], p=0.03, and RV-EDV HR: 3.91 [1.56–9.82], p=0.004).

Conclusion

RV size and function are crucial for determining optimal timing for TR intervention. For the first time, cut-off values of RV volume and function are defined in a cohort of consecutive patients based on outcome data. Proposed values provide a basis for prospective studies to establish definitive optimal surgical timing for severe TR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1. ROC and Cox regressions analysisRegression spline curve
Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effects of Sugammadex Following a Head Trauma in an Experimental Study
Authors: Mucuoglu Ali Osman , Mucuoglu Ceren Aygun , Kizmazoglu Ceren , Ersoy Nevin , Micili Serap Cilaker , Karabay Nuri , Hanci Volkan , Kalemci Orhan
Published: October 2021

To compare the efficacy of mannitol, the first choice of treatment in daily clinical practice for head trauma, and sugammadex, a frequently used neuroanesthesia in recent years. A total of 35 male rats were randomly selected and were divided into 5 groups, each comprising 7 rats. The groups were divided into Group I, sham (n = 7); Group II, control (head trauma, n = 7); Group III, treated with mannitol (head trauma, mannitol 20% 1 g/kg, n = 7); Group IV, treated with sugammadex (head trauma, sugammadex 100 mg/ kg, n = 7); and Group V, treated with mannitol and sugammadex (head trauma, mannitol 20% 1 g/kg and sugammadex 100 mg/kg, n = 7). After the sacrification, histological examination and immu-nohistochemical staining were performed in the brain of all subjects. Mann-Whitney U test was used to evaluate the significance between neuronal density, neuronal nuclei, and activated caspase-3 immunohistochemistry results measured from the prefrontal cortex. Neuronal density showing neuronal viability was observed to significantly increase in Group III compared to Group IV. However, neuronal nuclei immunohistochemistry showing apoptotic neurons also significantly increased. The present study has shown that sugammadex, an agent reversing the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents, has neuroprotective effects and is as effective as mannitol.
A meta‐analytic review of adaptive functioning in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and the effect of IQ, executive functioning, and age
Authors: Kautz‐Turnbull Carson , Petrenko Christie L. M.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are highly prevalent developmental disabilities associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. In addition to varied strengths and unique talents, people with FASD experience significant challenges, including in adaptive functioning. Adaptive functioning refers to skills related to everyday life such as communication, practical skills, and social skills. For the current review, we aimed to understand how adaptive functioning in FASD compares to that of alcohol nonexposed individuals and those with attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, we investigated how this relationship may change based on IQ, executive functioning, and age.

Method

The current review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they measured adaptive functioning and included an FASD group and at least one eligible comparison group. Articles available in May 2021 in PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations were searched. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression and three‐level random effects models were computed for all domains of adaptive functioning. Possible moderation by IQ, executive functioning, and age were investigated when heterogeneity analyses were significant. Apost hocmoderation analysis of recruitment method was also completed.

Results

Thirty studies were included. Individuals with FASD had significantly lower adaptive functioning than other groups, with effect sizes ranging from 1.04 to 1.35 compared to alcohol nonexposed groups and from 0.30 to 0.43 compared to ADHD groups. No significant moderating effects were found for IQ or age; executive functioning significantly moderated communication skills in FASD compared to the alcohol nonexposed group. Recruitment method significantly affected this relationship, with larger effect sizes on average found for clinically identified samples than at‐risk or population samples.

Conclusions

Individuals with FASD have impairments in adaptive functioning relative to alcohol nonexposed and ADHD groups, regardless of IQ, executive functioning, or age. Limitations of the review include small sample sizes in some comparisons and a limited age range.
How do people support each other in emergencies? A qualitative exploration of altruistic and prosocial behaviours during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tekin Selin , Sager Monica , Bushey Audrey , Deng Yawen , Uluğ Özden Melis
Published: October 2021

The Ball State University Center for Peace and Conflict Studies in the United States has compiled altruistic stories from different countries such as India, Australia, the United States, and England since the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We examined those stories to understand (1) who receives the most support, (2) what type of support is provided, (3) who those supporters are, and (4) why people support each other during the pandemic. Conducting a qualitative content analysis of 104 altruistic stories, we first identified that (a) older individuals , (b) people with sensitive health conditions, and disabilities, (c) frontline workers, and (d) working class and marginalized communities received the primary support. Second, we identified three types of support: (a) material, (b) social/emotional, and (c) psychological. Third, we found that support was coming from (a) different organizations, (b) advantaged groups, and (c) volunteers. Last, (a) sharing a community/humanity identity, (b) allyship, and (c) showing gratitude were the reasons behind altruistic and prosocial behavior. Our findings contribute to the literature by providing some possible reasons and ways that allies have supported disadvantaged communities via sharing the available resources and how showing gratitude can be a reason for altruism and prosocial behavior in a pandemic.
Effect of volatile fatty acids on adipocyte differentiation in bovine dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells in vitro
Authors: Oki Yoshinao , Hagiwara Reiko , Matsumaru Takashi , Kano Koichiro
Published: October 2021

Here, we established dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells from mature bovine adipocytes and then examined the effects of volatile fatty acids on the differentiation of these DFAT cells into adipocytes in vitro. When mature adipocytes were isolated from bovine adipose tissue and cultured using the ceiling culture method, they were dedifferentiated into fibroblast‐like cells without lipid droplets. These fibroblast‐like cells, termed bovine DFAT (b‐DFAT) cells, actively proliferated. After adipogenic induction, increased expression of adipocyte‐specific genes occurred in b‐DFAT cells and they redifferentiated into adipocytes with an accumulation of lipid droplets in their cytoplasm. The effects of volatile fatty acids on adipocyte differentiation in b‐DFAT cells were also examined. Specifically, acetate, butyrate, and propionate added to adipogenic induction medium significantly enhanced the adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells compared with that observed in control cells; the addition of 10−3 mol of acetate enhanced adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells to the greatest extent. These results suggest that b‐DFAT cells derived from bovine mature adipocytes are appropriate for the study of bovine adipocyte differentiation and that the optimum concentration treatment of acetate, a major energy source for ruminants, promotes adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells in vitro.
Acceptability and facilitators of and barriers to point‐of‐care HIV testing in a homeless‐focused service in Gloucestershire: a qualitative evaluation
Authors: Corker Elizabeth , Lorencatto Fabiana , Anderson Niall , Gobin Maya , Scott Sarah , Michie Susan , Angel Georgina
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Late HIV diagnosis increases the risks of onward transmission, morbidity and mortality. Rapid point‐of‐care testing (POCT) reaches people who have never been tested and people living with HIV who are undiagnosed. This study explored the acceptability and feasibility of HIV POCT from the perspectives of service providers and users.

Methods

A pilot study introduced HIV POCT to one service in Gloucestershire, England. Eleven semi‐structured interviews with service users and a focus group with three service providers were conducted. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability and the Theoretical Domains Framework were used to design the topic guide and analysis.

Results

Acceptability of HIV POCT was high. Seven facilitators were identified (e.g. understanding the test purpose and process), alongside two potential barriers, one relevant to service providers and users (anxiety) and the other to service users (stigma).

Conclusions

To maximize the benefits of implementation of HIV POCT, health care providers require appropriate training and supervision to offer and administer POCT.
Antifungal-Loaded Calcium Sulfate Beads as a Potential Therapeutic in Combating Candida auris
Authors: Butcher Mark C. , Brown Jason L. , Hansom Donald , Wilson-Van Os Rebecca , Delury Craig , Laycock Phillip A. , Ramage Gordon
Published: October 2021

Candida auris
provides a substantial global nosocomial threat clinically. With the recent emergence that the organism can readily colonize skin niches, it will likely continue to pose a risk in health care units, particularly to patients undergoing surgery. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of antifungal-loaded calcium sulfate (CS) beads in combatting
C. auris
infection.
Can Globalization Help in Reimagining the Developmental Sciences? Finding Balance between Global Science and Local Reality
Authors: Chaudhary Nandita
Published: October 2021

Social changes and technological advancement have profoundly impacted the human condition, and the former world order has gradually become obsolete as domination and imperialism are no longer justifiable. In the social and developmental sciences, such a shift implies the expansion of theory, methods, and application to embrace diversity as a fundamental property of being human. However, a bulk of the research draws from limited samples and circumscribed methods, largely excluding culture from conversations about human development. There is urgent need to find balance between global science and local reality where social justice, sustainability, and inclusion find a central place in the play between unity and diversity. Recent events have further highlighted the importance of democratic principles, multidisciplinary approaches, and international collaboration. Globalization cannot be undone, but it can be fruitfully exploited to reimagine the developmental sciences to embrace diversity and pluralism. Cultural psychology as a discipline offers a productive way forward.
Relationship between serum lipopolysaccharide binding protein levels, disease activity, and clinical characteristics in Paraguayan patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Losanto Jhonatan , Langjahr Patricia , Barrios Graciela , Paats Astrid , Acosta de Hetter María E , de Guillén Ivalena , Duarte Margarita , Acosta-Colman Isabel , Cervera Ricard
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Systemic exposure to bacterial components like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is among the non-genetic factors that could be involved in the onset or progression of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) participates in the recognition of LPS and in the inflammatory response. Here, we investigated LBP in SLE patients and its relationship with disease activity and SLE phenotypes.

Methods

Eighty-one adult patients with SLE from IMID-PY biobank (Paraguay) were included in the study. The clinical and laboratory variables were used to determine SLE activity. LBP levels were determined by ELISA in SLE patients and age- and sex-matched population-based controls.

Results

Patients with SLE have lower levels of circulating LBP compared to healthy controls ( p = 0.0007). No significant correlation was found between serum LBP levels and disease activity. A significant difference was observed in LBP levels with regard to the presence of arthritis ( p = 0.026). No other relation was found with clinical parameters.

Conclusions

We found low levels of LBP in SLE patients compared to the control group. No correlation was detected between LBP levels and disease activity. It would be interesting for future studies to evaluate the impact of low levels of LBP on lupus immunopathogenesis.
Determinants of Carrying Trade with Indian Rupee: Variables and Methods
Authors: Ranjana Jyoti , Barai Parama
Published: October 2021

We have taken six variables to ascertain their contribution in finding the direction and values of carry trade returns in Indian rupee. These variables are as follows: foreign exchange volatility; interest rate difference; volatility in equity market; interest rate difference volatility; liquidity in foreign exchange and commodity index. We have employed three methods—ordinary least square, multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA-X) to find the predictive capacity of these above-mentioned variables. We find that interest rate differential and volatility in equity market significantly affect carry trade returns with spot exchange rates. Thus, traders can take the indication from volatility in equity market and interest rate difference for the return of carry trade returns.
Audit of acute psychiatric presentations during New Zealand’s first COVID-19 national lockdown
Authors: Ng Lillian , Narayanan Nishanth , Diamond Danielle , Pitigala Niru
Published: October 2021

Objective:

In this study, we aimed to identify service user demographic and clinical characteristics of an acute mental health service in South Auckland during the first New Zealand coronavirus-related lockdown.

Method:

We conducted a clinical audit of a sample of service users presenting to a district health board's acute adult mental health service during New Zealand’s level-4 lockdown in 2020 and made comparisons to a sample from 2019. We identified demographic factors, living situation, mode of referral, mode of assessment, diagnosis, substance use, risks, stressors, use of mental health act legislation and follow-up.

Results:

During the first level-4 lockdown fewer Ma¯ori were assessed, police referrals increased, specific stressors related to confinement were identified and there was an increase in risks relating to self-harm and harm to others.

Conclusion:

Service users had unique stressors and changing patterns of presentation during the level-4 New Zealand lockdown. In response to the changing needs of service users during a pandemic, we recommend optimising telehealth, enhancing connections with other essential services, development of digital interventions and care for frontline staff.
Assessment of knowledge and compliance to evidence-based guidelines for VAP prevention among ICU nurses in Tanzania
Authors: Bankanie Vicent , Outwater Anne H. , Wan Li , Yinglan Li
Published: October 2021

Background

Implementation of evidence-based guidelines (EBGs) related to VAP is an effective measure for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). While low knowledge regarding the EBGs related to VAP prevention among ICU nurses is still a major concern among nurses in ICUs globally, the situation in Tanzania is scarcely known. This study aimed to assess the ICU nurses’ knowledge, compliance, and barriers toward evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of VAP in Tanzania.

Methods

A cross-sectional study, involving ICU nurses of major hospitals in Tanzania, was conducted. A structured questionnaire was administered among 116 ICU nurses. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and the independent sample t-test.

Results

The mean knowledge score was 3.86(SD = 1.56), based on ten questions (equivalent to 38.6%). Nurses with a degree or higher level of nursing education performed significantly better than the nurses with a diploma or lower level of nursing education (p = 0.004). The mean self-reported compliance score for EBGs for the prevention of VAP was 15.20 (SD = 0.93) which is equivalent to 60.8% based on 25 questions. The main barriers to the implementation of EBGs for VAP prevention were lack of skills (96.6%), lack of adequate staff (95.5%), and lack of knowledge (79.3%).

Conclusion

Considering the severity and impact of VAP, and the higher risks of HAIs in resource-limited countries like Tanzania, the lower level of knowledge and compliance implies the need for ongoing educational interventions and evaluation of the implementation of the EBGs for VAP prevention by considering the local context.
TEACHING HOW TO USE VERBS IN THE PASSIVE VOICE: FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF TEACHING ENGLISH IN A MEDICAL COLLEGE
Authors: Larionova Tatiana
Published: October 2021

Teaching English grammar involves mastering the topic «The Passive Voice». The article has an educational character; it deals with the rules of use verbs in the passive voice. Considerable attention is paid to studying the grammatical material aimed at a) deepening college students' knowledge of the subject, and b) at forming an idea of this grammatical topic for those who have not studied English before.

The exercises for using the passive voice, given in the article, are designed to practice the material and consolidate knowledge of the topic. These exercises will help you check your knowledge, find weak points in your preparation and correct them in time.

The article can be useful to students and teachers of colleges, universities, as well as a wide range of people studying English
Polish ‘sugar fee’ in the light of global experience with sugar sweetened beverages taxation
Authors: Mazurek-Chwiejczak Małgorzata
Published: October 2021

Motivation: Obesity is one of the gravest public health challenges facing the world today. Out of different policy action undertaken by counties to counteract these threats, taxes imposed on sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) has gaining growing popularity. They are currently imposed on 47 countries worldwide. The Polish ‘sugar fee’ came into force on January 1, 2021.

Aim: The aim of the article is to synthesize the global experience with sugar-sweetened beverages taxation, to assess on that basis the construction of Polish ‘sugar fee’ and to identify key opportunities and threats connected with its implementation.

Results: Introduction of ‘sugar fee’ in Poland is consistent with the latest global trends in taxation. Its formula gives an opportunity to stimulate consumers to displace SSBs by other healthier beverages and to incentivize drink manufacturers to reformulate their products and change their marketing strategies. There is growing that evidence ‘sugar taxes’ can be effective tools to achieve public health goals, however its effect must be strengthen by multifaceted instruments (e.g. broad information action). The fiscal potential of ‘sugar fee’ is limited, if we assume that its main purpose is to stimulate healthier consumption patterns.
Epithelioid Trophoblastic Tumour Presenting with Scalp Lesions
Authors: Basto Raquel , Brandão Rêgo Inês , Correia Magalhães Joana , Sousa Maria João , Cunha Pereira Tatiana , Broco Sofia , Pazos Isabel , Carvalho Teresa , Sousa Gabriela
Published: October 2021

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumour (ETT) is a very rare variant of gestational trophoblastic disease, which arises in reproductive-age women with a prior gestational history. Because of its rarity, its biological behaviour, imaging characteristics and therapeutic schedule have not yet been fully established. Here we describe a rare case of metastatic ETT in a premenopausal woman. A 40-year-old, gravida 3, para 2, Portuguese woman was referred to the dermatology department for multiple skin nodules on the scalp measuring between 1 and 6 cm. A skin biopsy was suggestive of metastatic lesions of low differentiated carcinoma in favour of squamous cell carcinoma. Staging cervical-thoracic-abdominal and pelvic CT showed multiple lesions compatible with metastasis (ganglia, lung and kidneys). Since a CT scan was unable to identify the primary tumour, it was decided to perform a PET-CT scan and to take a biopsy of a vulvar nodule which had been clinically identified as ETT. The patient began the EMA-CO protocol and completed two cycles but with clinical worsening and radiological progression. Although several different chemotherapy regimens are used to treat gestational trophoblastic disease, the optimal treatment is not known given the rarity of this disease and the lack of controlled trials.
Why convulsions and unconsciousness occur in non-epileptic seizures: a neuropsychological perspective
Authors: Fernando Shaminda
Published: October 2021

Background:

Non-epileptic seizures (NES) fall under the category of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Patients are often misdiagnosed with epilepsy because convulsions and unconsciousness experienced in NES mirror symptoms of epileptic tonic-clonic seizures. Our current understanding is that these physiological symptoms of NES are caused purely by psychological distress. There is a lack of research that has explored the possible neuropsychological causes that trigger and maintain convulsions and unconsciousness.

Aims:

This article proposes a neuropsychological explanation of how convulsions and unconsciousness occur and maintain in patients with NES.

Methods:

Analysis of current research literature into NES is used to generate a neuropsychological perspective into the causes of NES, focusing on symptoms of convulsions and unconsciousness.

Conclusions:

This article argues the need for more neuropsychological research to be conducted into NES which can contribute to improving our understanding and treatment of NES.
Progress and problems in literacy programmes in Central Nigeria
Authors: Kato Abiel Barau
Published: October 2021

Central Nigeria is a region of great linguistic diversity where there were no pre-colonial orthographies in use. The expansion of population and modern education has created a strong demand for local literacy programmes for the Plateau languages of Central Nigeria. For people to be able to develop themselves intellectually, it is important that they have a system of writing that is truly their own. Initially, demand for literacy has been in relation to programmes for Bible translation, and this is largely where funding is sought. However, these programmes are frustratingly long-term and some have been quite ineffective due to poor (or no) initial planning and ill-designed orthographies.

However, in the decade since 2010, demand is increasingly coming from non-denominational organisations whose concern is cultural maintenance, and thus the use of vernacular languages in education. This paper examines the progress achieved and problems faced by some of the Plateau languages in the area of literacy development with a more detailed case study of the Mada Literacy Programme, as well as offering some practical solutions to assist the spread of literacy.
Social maturity of adolescents
Authors: Shangjam Leishon , Gogoi Sampreety , Borah Tulika
Published: October 2021

Adolescence is the bridge between childhood and adulthood and it describes the social behaviour and characteristics. When an individual has the ability to respond to the environment in an appropriate manner then one shows social maturity. Adolescents grow into social maturity, when they learn to manage a group situation with skill and confidence, with this background the present study entitled, “Social maturity of adolescents” was undertaken during the year 2017-2019. The study was conducted to assess the social maturity of adolescents. A total of 120 adolescents were selected randomly from four schools of Ukhrul sub-division, Manipur. A questionnaire was prepared to collect the background information of the respondents. To measure the social maturity of adolescents, a structured standardized tools named ‘Social Maturity Scale’ developed by Dr. Nalini Rao (1971) revised in 2009 was used. The findings of the study revealed that majority of the adolescents were at average level maturity.