bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The health belief model and self-determination theory in explaining the use of antenatal care services: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tungaraza Maximillian B , Joho Angelina A
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Antenatal care services are vitally important in monitoring pregnancy and identifying the risk factors during pregnancy. However, many pregnant women under-use these services and factors associated with under-use are not well explained. Therefore, this study aimed to use the health belief model and self-determination theory to explore antenatal care services use among postnatal women in the Mara region.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study involving postnatal women from April to July 2020 was conducted using a structured questionnaire. A total of 384 postnatal women were recruited using systematic sampling. The associations between constructs of the health belief model and self-determination theories with antenatal care service variables were examined using the Chi-squared test, followed by logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 at 95% confidence interval was considered statically significant.

Results

Of 384 participants, 53.4% were self-determined on antenatal care services use, 46.9% had a high level of perception on antenatal care services use and 49.7% had adequate knowledge on antenatal care services use. Being from the Kurya tribe reduced the odds of being self-determined. Most (85.9%) postnatal women had attended fewer than eight recommended antenatal care visits. Multivariate analysis showed low autonomy (P=0.038), and low perceived barriers (P=0.007) were predictors for antenatal care visits.

Conclusions

Antenatal care services are still inadequately used in the Mara region. Low perceived autonomy and low perceived barriers are significantly associated with antenatal care services use. Health management teams and health stakeholders should collaborate to improve the situation.
Orthotic intervention following stroke: a survey of physiotherapist, occupational therapist and orthotist practice and views in the UK
Authors: Golding-Day Miriam R , Walker Marion F , Whitehead Phillip J
Published: June 2022

Background/Aims Orthoses are often used to promote mobility and rehabilitation for patients in the UK after a stroke. The perspective of stroke therapists in the UK is an important factor determining current practice and orthotic provision. The purpose of this study was to investigate the views of orthotists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists on the delivery mechanisms and relationships that influence orthoses intervention and provision for patients with stroke in the UK.

Methods A UK-based online survey was conducted. Participants were stroke therapy clinicians within acute and community settings, recruited through their membership of the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists, the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists Interested in Neurology, and the Royal Collage of Occupational Therapists—Specialist Section for Neurological Practice. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Results A total of 305 questionnaires were completed (64 orthotists, 131 physiotherapists, 110 occupational therapists). Some 67% (n=190) of respondents identified the optimal timing for initial orthotic assessment as within the first days following a stroke or before discharge from hospital. Waiting times and operational barriers to orthoses provision were perceived to have a negative impact on patients’ rehabilitation. A closer working relationship between orthotists and the stroke rehabilitation team is desirable.

Conclusions The survey found that the use of orthoses and orthotic specialist input are perceived to play an important role within the stroke rehabilitation pathway. Further evaluative research is warranted to explore the optimal timing and benefits, and the orthotist's role within the stroke rehabilitation team.
Security service edge: choosing the right solution
Authors: Howe Nathan
Published: June 2022

Security service edge (SSE) solutions are designed to address the fundamental security challenges that organisations face in the era of hybrid work, applications in multi-cloud environments, edge computing, and digitisation of their operational technology (OT). But how do you select the right solution?
The great security convergence: joining physical devices and cyber security
Authors: Sturges Scot
Published: June 2022

With the convergence of the physical and digital worlds comes a heightened risk of security threats. Cyber security can no longer be placed on the back burner as organisations continue to incorporate physical security solutions; the likelihood and severity of an information breach rise dramatically as additional devices are contributed to one ubiquitous network.
Ciberviolencia en la pareja adolescente: análisis transcultural y de género en centros de secundaria
Authors: C. Cala Verónica , Martínez Gil María del Carmen
Published: June 2022

INTRODUCCIÓN. La ciberviolencia en las relaciones de parejas adolescentes es un problema educativo y de salud que cuenta, cada vez, con mayor presencia en la sociedad española, siendo, sin embargo, escasamente abordado en contextos multiculturales. Este estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la ciberviolencia en las relaciones de noviazgo en mujeres y hombres adolescentes autóctonos/as y de origen extranjero en la provincia de Almería. MÉTODO. Se realiza una investigación transversal mediante encuesta en una muestra de 1219 alumnos de secundaria (619 chicas y 545 chicos) de la provincia de Almería, de origen español, marroquí y rumano, de entre 12-20 años, que han tenido alguna pareja sentimental. Para ello, se utilizan las Escalas de Victimización de la Ciberviolencia, de Perpetración de la Ciberviolencia y de Justificación de la Violencia, todas extraídas del cuestionario VPA-RC. RESULTADOS. Se presentan niveles altos de victimización y perpetración de la ciberviolencia en las relaciones de parejas adolescentes, con más de la mitad de los jóvenes que sufre y ejerce violencia. Asimismo, existe una elevada tendencia hacia la justificación de la violencia, significativamente superior en hombres. No existen diferencias de género en términos globales en la victimización de la ciberviolencia, pero sí en su perpetración y en la justificación de la violencia, siendo la ciberagresión mayoritariamente reconocida por mujeres y la justificación por hombres. Un estudio detallado refleja que las mujeres suelen perpetrar formas de ciberviolencia de impacto individual (control y espionaje), mientras que los hombres llevan a cabo ciberviolencia de impacto social (publicar imágenes). También se aprecian diferencias según el origen cultural, siendo los adolescentes hijos de padres marroquíes quienes reconocen sufrir y ejercer más ciberviolencia en las relaciones de noviazgo entre adolescentes. DISCUSIÓN. Este estudio muestra la importancia de prevenir las ciberviolencias desde una perspectiva transcultural.
All good things…
Authors: Slop Mr
Published: June 2022

In his final column for the Bulletin, the admirable Mr Slop reflects on his career and time as our resident scribe as he bids his final farewell.
RCS England SAS strategy
Authors: Smith Karen , Shekar Vinita
Published: June 2022

How do we unlock the potential of the specialty and associate specialist workforce?
Obstruction in surgical training
Authors: Munro CE
Published: June 2022

A surgical emergency or a chance to reshape how we train?
If life begins at 40, what about dentistry?
Authors: Thomson Peter
Published: June 2022

As he approaches his 40thyear of clinical practice, Peter Thomson reflects on a professional lifetime as a clinician, surgeon, teacher and researcher. His clinical expertise as an oral oncologist, and his research work in carcinogenesis and interventional management of potentially malignant disease has taken him on an international journey spanning the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Taking time to reflect on his career to date, he poses the fundamental question: if life truly begins at 40, what about dentistry?
Meta-Heuristics Based Inverse Kinematics of Robot Manipulator’s Path Tracking Capability Under Joint Limits
Authors: Kanagaraj Ganesan , Sheik  Masthan SAR , Yu Vincent F
Published: June 2022

In robot-assisted manufacturing or assembly, following a predefined path became a critical aspect. In general, inverse kinematics offers the solution to control the movement of manipulator while following the trajectory. The main problem with the inverse kinematics approach is that inverse kinematics are computationally complex. For a redundant manipulator, this complexity is further increased. Instead of employing inverse kinematics, the complexity can be reduced by using a heuristic algorithm. Therefore, a heuristic-based approach can be used to solve the inverse kinematics of the robot manipulator end effector, guaranteeing that the desired paths are accurately followed. This paper compares the performance of four such heuristic-based approaches to solving the inverse kinematics problem. They are Bat Algorithm (BAT), Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). The performance of these algorithms is evaluated based on their ability to accurately follow a predefined trajectory. Extensive simulations show that BAT and GSA outperform PSO and WOA in all aspects considered in this work related to inverse kinematic problems.
Nondestructive detection of anthocyanin content in fresh leaves of
purple maize using hyperspectral data
Authors: Yang Xin , Gao Shichen , Gu Xiaohe , Zhang Chao , Sun Qian , Wei Zhonghui , Hu Xueqian , Qu Xuzhou
Published: June 2022

Anthocyanins are widely used in the food industry as an additive, improving antioxidant
capacity and strengthening the human immune system. However, rapid and
nondestructive detection methods are lacking. This study aimed to
develop a rapid and nondestructive method to detect anthocyanin
content in fresh purple maize leaves using hyperspectral reflectance.
Sensitivity bands were screened by analyzing the correlation between
the spectrum and anthocyanin, chlorophyll, and moisture content in
maize leaves with models constructed. Through a combination of the
sensitivity bands of the three components, the interference of
chlorophyll and moisture on the spectral detection of anthocyanin in
fresh leaves was analyzed. The results showed that the anthocyanin
sensitivity band was approximately 550 nm. The determination
coefficient and root mean square error of the optimal hyperspectral
model were 0.766 and 4.215 mg/g, respectively. After excluding
chlorophyll and moisture interference, the anthocyanin content
detection accuracy was improved by only 2% compared to that of the
original. These results indicate that hyperspectral technology can be
used to nondestructively detect anthocyanin content in fresh purple
maize leaves with good accuracy. Chlorophyll and moisture in the
leaves did not significantly influence anthocyanin content.
RETRACTED: Using deep learning to automatically generate design starting points for free-form imaging optical systems
Authors: Fan Chengxiang , Yang Bo , Liu Yunpeng , Zhao Qianyang , Chen Shishuang , Qian Bowen
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we propose a method to automatically generate design
starting points for free-form three-mirror imaging systems with
different folding configurations using deep neural networks. For a
given range of system parameters, a large number of datasets are
automatically generated using the double seed extended curve algorithm
and coded optimization. Deep neural networks are then trained using a
supervised learning approach and can be used to generate good design
starting points directly. The feasibility of the method is verified by
designing a free-form three-mirror system with three different folding
configurations. This method can significantly reduce the design time
and effort for free-form imaging systems, and can be extended to
complex optical systems with more optical surfaces.
Impact of color on polarization-based 3D imaging and countermeasures
Authors: Cai Yudong , Liu Fei , Shao Xiaopeng , Cai Guocheng
Published: June 2022

Diffuse polarization-based 3D imaging has flourished with the ability to obtain the 3D shapes of objects without multiple detectors, active mode lighting, or complex mechanical structures, which are major drawbacks of other methods for 3D imaging in natural scenes. However, traditional polarization-based 3D imaging technology introduces color distortion when reconstructing the surface of multi-colored targets. We propose a polarization-based 3D imaging model to recover the 3D geometry of multi-colored Lambertian objects. In particular, chromaticity-based color removal theory is used to restore the intrinsic intensity, which is modulated only by the target shape, and we apply the recovered intrinsic intensity to address the orientation uncertainty of target normals due to azimuth ambiguity. Finally, we integrate the corrected normals to reconstruct high-precision 3D shapes. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model has the ability to reconstruct multi-colored Lambertian objects exhibiting non-uniform reflectance from single views under natural light conditions.
Terahertz time-domain ellipsometry: tutorial
Authors: Mazaheri Zahra , Koral Can , Andreone Antonello , Marino Antigone
Published: June 2022

Ellipsometry is extensively used in the optical regime to investigate the properties of many materials as well as to evaluate with high precision the surface roughness and thickness of thin films and multilayered systems. Due to the inherent non-coherent detection technique, data analyses in optical ellipsometry tend to be complicated and require the use of a predetermined model, therefore indirectly linking the sample properties to the measured ellipsometric parameters. The aim of this tutorial is to provide an overview of terahertz (THz) time-domain ellipsometry, which is based instead on a coherent detection approach and allows in a simple and direct way the measurement of the material response. After giving a brief description of the technology presently used to generate and detect THz radiation, we introduce the general features of an ellipsometric setup operating in the time domain, putting in evidence similarities and differences with respect to the classical optical counterpart. To back up and validate the study, results of THz ellipsometric measurements carried out on selected samples are presented.
Real-time adaptive ultrashort pulse compressor for dynamic group delay dispersion compensation
Authors: Chang Shu-Yu , Chang Jui-Chi , Yang Cheng-Jung , Haung Shao-Wei , Chang Chia-Yuan
Published: June 2022

The optical dispersion effect in ultrafast pulse laser systems broadens the laser pulse duration and reduces the theoretical peak power. The present study proposes an adaptive ultrashort pulse compressor for compensating the optical dispersion using a direct optical-dispersion estimation by spectrogram (DOES) method. The DOES has fast and accurate computation time which is suitable for real time controller design. In the proposed approach, the group delay dispersion (GDD) and its polarity are estimated directly from the delay marginal of the trace obtained from a single-shot frequency-resolved optical gating (FROG). The estimated GDD is then processed by a closed-loop controller, which generates a command signal to drive a linear deformable mirror as required to achieve the desired laser pulse compression. The dispersion analysis, control computation, and deformable mirror control processes are implemented on a single field programmable gate array (FPGA). It is shown that the DOES dispersion computation process requires just 0.5 ms to complete. Moreover, the proposed pulse compressor compensates for both static dispersion and dynamic dispersion within five time steps when closed-loop controller is performed at a frequency of 100 Hz. The experimental results show that the proposed pulse compressor yields an effective fluorescence intensity improvement in a multiphoton excited fluorescence microscope (MPEFM).
Interactive tool for clustering and forecasting patterns of Taiwan COVID-19 spread
Authors: Ashouri Mahsa , Phoa Frederick Kin Hing
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 data analysis is essential for policymakers to analyze the outbreak and manage the containment. Many approaches based on traditional time series clustering and forecasting methods, such as hierarchical clustering and exponential smoothing, have been proposed to cluster and forecast the COVID-19 data. However, most of these methods do not scale up with the high volume of cases. Moreover, the interactive nature of the application demands further critically complex yet compelling clustering and forecasting techniques. In this paper, we propose a web-based interactive tool to cluster and forecast the available data of Taiwan COVID-19 confirmed infection cases. We apply the Model-based (MOB) tree and domain-relevant attributes to cluster the dataset and display forecasting results using the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) method. In this OLS model, we apply a model produced by the MOB tree to forecast all series in each cluster. Our user-friendly parametric forecasting method is computationally cheap. A web app based on R’s Shiny App makes it easier for practitioners to find clustering and forecasting results while choosing different parameters such as domain-relevant attributes. These results could help in determining the spread pattern and be utilized by medical researchers.
HIV viral load assays when used with whole blood perform well as a diagnostic assay for infants
Authors: Kiyaga Charles , Fong Youyi , Okiira Christopher , Kushemererwa Grace Esther , Kayongo Ismail , Tadeo Iga , Namulindwa Christine , Bigira Victor , Ssewanyana Isaac , Peter Trevor , Doherty Meg , Sacks Jilian A. , Vojnov Lara
Published: June 2022

Objective

Over the past several years, only approximately 50% of HIV-exposed infants received an early infant diagnosis test within the first two months of life. While high attrition and mortality account for some of the shortcomings in identifying HIV-infected infants early and putting them on life-saving treatment, fragmented and challenging laboratory systems are an added barrier. We sought to determine the accuracy of using HIV viral load assays for infant diagnosis of HIV.

Methods

We enrolled 866 Ugandan infants between March–April 2018 for this study after initial laboratory diagnosis. The median age was seven months, while 33% of infants were less than three months of age. Study testing was done using either the Roche or Abbott molecular technologies at the Central Public Health Laboratory. Dried blood spot samples were prepared according to manufacturer-recommended protocols for both the qualitative and quantitative assays. Viral load test samples for the Roche assay were processed using two different buffers: phosphate-buffered saline (PBS: free virus elution viral load protocol [FVE]) and Sample Pre-Extraction Reagent (SPEX: qualitative buffer). Dried blood spot samples were processed for both assays on the Abbott using the manufacturer’s standard infant diagnosis protocol. All infants received a qualitative test for clinical management and additional paired quantitative tests.

Results

858 infants were included in the analysis, of which 50% were female. Over 75% of mothers received antiretroviral therapy, while approximately 65% of infants received infant prophylaxis. The Roche SPEX and Abbott technologies had high sensitivity (>95%) and specificity (>98%). The Roche FVE had lower sensitivity (85%) and viral load values.

Conclusions

To simplify and streamline laboratory practices, HIV viral load may be used to diagnose HIV infection in infants, particularly using the Roche SPEX and Abbott technologies.
Association of publication record and independent NIH funding
Authors: Michelson Kenneth A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Publications may be a modifiable factor toward research project grant (RPG) funding decisions, the objective was to determine the association of publication record with later RPG receipt.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of recipients of K01, K08, or K23 US career development awards (CDAs) starting from 2000–2015. Exposures were CDA awardees’ first-, middle-, and last-author publication counts, and the quartile of awardees’ highest and mean publication impact factors. The independent association of each exposure with time to RPG (R01 or equivalent) was determined using a Cox model, after adjustment for CDA type, awardee change in institution, and institutional CDA count. The proportion of CDA recipients with later independent funding was also determined by publication count.

Results

Among 6744 CDA awardees, 3943 obtained an RPG. The median time to RPG was 5.6 years (interquartile range 4.2–7.5). The number of first-authorships was associated with a shorter time to RPG (1–4 versus 0: hazard ratio [HR] 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.36; 5–9: 1.59, 95% CI 1.40–1.79; 10–24: 1.78, 95% CI 1.54–2.07; 25+: 2.40, 95% CI 1.61–3.56). Last-authorships were associated with a shorter time to RPG (1–4 versus 0: HR 1.99, 95% CI 1.83–2.16; 5–9: 2.72, 95% CI 2.45–3.03; 10–24: 3.17, 95% CI 2.78–3.62; 25+: 3.12, 95% CI 2.17–4.50). Higher maximum impact factor was associated with a shorter time to RPG (Q2 versus lowest: HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.12–1.46; Q3: 1.45, 95% CI 1.24–1.70; Q4: 1.67, 95% CI 1.39–2.02). Mean impact factor and middle-authorships were not associated with time to RPG. Among 687 CDAs with zero associated first- or last-authorships, 158 (23%) achieved later RPG funding. Among those with at least 10 total first- or last-authorships, 1288/1554 (83%) obtained a later RPG.

Conclusions

A higher number and impact of publications was associated with later independent funding.
Entia Non Sunt Multiplicanda … Shall I look for clusters in my cognitive data?
Authors: Toffalini Enrico , Girardi Paolo , Giofrè David , Altoè Gianmarco
Published: June 2022

Unsupervised clustering methods are increasingly being applied in psychology. Researchers may use such methods on multivariate data to reveal previously undetected sub-populations of individuals within a larger population. Realistic research scenarios in the cognitive science may not be ideally suited for a successful use of these methods, however, as they are characterized by modest effect sizes, limited sample sizes, and non-orthogonal indicators. This combination of characteristics even presents a high risk of detecting non-existing clusters. A systematic review showed that, among 191 studies published in 2016–2020 that used different clustering methods to classify human participants, the median sample size was only 322, and a median of 3 latent classes/clusters were detected. None of them concluded in favor of a one-cluster solution, potentially giving rise to an extreme publication bias. Dimensionality reduction techniques are almost never used before clustering. In a subsequent simulation study, we examined the performance of popular clustering techniques, including Gaussian mixture model, a partitioning, and a hierarchical agglomerative algorithm. We focused on their ability to detect the correct number of clusters, and on their classification accuracy. Under a reasoned set of scenarios that we considered plausible for the cognitive research, none of the methods adequately discriminates between one vs two true clusters. In addition, non-orthogonal indicators lead to a high risk of incorrectly detecting multiple clusters where none existed, even in the presence of only modest correlation (a frequent case in psychology). In conclusion, it is hard for researchers to be in a condition to achieve a valid unsupervised clustering for inferential purposes with a view to classifying individuals.
Community and bystander interventions for the prevention of suicide: Protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Worsteling Asha , Keating Byron W.
Published: June 2022

Suicide has a wide reaching and devastating impact on society. This article presents a study protocol for a systematic review of the literature on community and bystander interventions to reduce the incidence of suicide. These interventions are focused on people other than the person at-risk and are designed to increase awareness of warning signs and knowledge of how to most effectively respond. While there have been many studies undertaken on community and bystander intervention programs, we lack a synthesis of evidence regarding how an effective program is created and implemented. The proposed systematic review will address this gap by presenting the first comprehensive review on this topic. The specific aims of the review are to: (1) determine whether community and bystander interventions effectively increase bystander action to prevent suicide and, if so; (2) to understand what creates an effective community suicide intervention. The insights gathered will inform policy and guide investment in better evidence-based suicide interventions for the future.
Actovegin in the management of patients after ischemic stroke: A systematic review
Authors: la Fleur Philip , Baizhaxynova Ardak , Reynen Emily , Kaunelis David , Galiyeva Dinara
Published: June 2022

Background

Actovegin is a hemodialysate of calf’s blood and has been used for several decades in the countries of Central Asia, East Asia, Russia and some European countries. It has been used to treat patients with various neurological conditions, vascular disorders, and ischemic stroke.

Objectives

To perform a systematic review to evaluate the effect of Actovegin in patients who have suffered an ischemic stroke.

Methods

A search of MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane and Embase was carried out from inception to October 10, 2021 for clinical trials and observational studies with a control group, published in English or Russian.

Results

Of 220 identified unique records, 84 full-text articles were screened, and 5 studies were selected that met the inclusion criteria. This included 4 observational studies with control groups and one randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. These studies enrolled a total of 3879 patients of which 720 patients received Actovegin administered intravenously and/or orally for a duration ranging from 10 to 180 days. Because of study heterogeneity, meta-analysis was not performed. No consistent evidence on improved survival, quality of life, neurologic symptoms, activities of daily living or disability was identified. One study showed statistically significant improvements in the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale, cognitive subscale, extended version (ADAS-cog+) for Actovegin compared with placebo at 6 months but the clinical relevance of this change is uncertain. One study reported a higher incidence of recurrent ischemic stroke, transient ischemic attack or intracerebral hemorrhage in patients taking Actovegin compared to placebo.

Conclusions

The benefits of Actovegin are uncertain and that there is potential risk of harm in patients with stroke. More evidence is needed from rigorously designed clinical trials to justify the role of Actovegin in patients with ischemic stroke.
Spatiotemporal characteristics and influencing factor analysis of universities’ technology transfer level in China: The perspective of innovation ecosystems
Authors: Fang Haining , Wang Jinmei , Yang Qing , Liu Xingxing , Cao Lanjuan
Published: June 2022

Universities are important parts of innovation ecosystems, and university technology transfer (UTT), which aims for the sustainable commercialization of sci-tech achievements, is closely related to other actors in the ecosystem. Based on the panel data of 31 provinces in mainland China, this paper empirically analyzes the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of UTT levels from 2011 to 2019 and estimates the influencing factors using the spatial Durbin model (SDM) with an economic spatial weighting matrix from the perspective of innovation ecosystems. The results are presented as follows: (1) Although the overall level of UTT in China is low, it shows an upward trend in most provinces. In addition, the interprovincial gap is obvious, forming a ladder distribution of UTT levels increasing from west to east. (2) There is a significant spatial autocorrelation between UTT levels in the provinces. (3) Industry, economy, and informatization play significant roles in promoting UTT, while financial institutes and openness have significant inhibitory effects. The economy has a significant spatial spillover effect on UTT, while government, industry and informatization have a significant inhibitory effect on UTT in neighboring regions. (4) The direct and indirect effects of influencing factors in the Eastern Region and other regions show significant spatial heterogeneity.
Varicella outbreaks in schools and kindergartens in Shanghai, China from 2011 to 2020
Authors: Wang Jing , Xu Zhenhui , Gao Qiang
Published: June 2022

Background

Varicella is a contagious disease caused by varicella-zoster virus and varicella vaccine (VarV) is the most effective way to prevent and control varicella. Despite high VarV coverage there were still varicella outbreaks in schools and kindergartens. We aim to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of varicella outbreaks in Huangpu District, Shanghai, China from 2011 to 2020.

Methods

For varicella outbreaks, case information and vaccination history were collected. Mann–Kendall test and descriptive methods were used to analyzed the trend and epidemiological catachrestic of varicella outbreaks.

Results

A total of 57 varicella outbreaks were reported from 2011 to 2020, including 30 outbreaks (52.6%) in primary schools. The results of the Mann–Kendall trend test (z = 1.97, p = 0.049) showed an upward trend in the number of cases during the study period, but the trend change was not statistically significant. Emergency vaccination was carried out in 42 (73.7%) outbreaks which influenced the duration of the epidemic (F = 4.53, p = 0.0379). A total of 573 varicella cases were reported, including 357 cases (62.3%) who had received at least one dose of varicella vaccine.

Conclusions

The number of varicella outbreaks has not changed significantly in the decade from 2011 to 2020. The strategy of varicella vaccination, the development and application of varicella vaccine, and the control measures after the occurrence of varicella outbreaks need to be optimized. In addition to vaccination, as a disease transmitted by contact, quarantine measures, good personal hygiene, environmental disinfection, and ventilation are also important.
Interferon-alpha2 treatment of patients with polycythemia vera and related neoplasms favorably impacts deregulation of oxidative stress genes and antioxidative defense mechanisms
Authors: Skov Vibe , Thomassen Mads , Kjær Lasse , Ellervik Christina , Larsen Morten Kranker , Knudsen Trine Alma , Kruse Torben A. , Hasselbalch Hans C.
Published: June 2022

Chronic inflammation is considered a major driving force for clonal expansion and evolution in the Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms, which include essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera and primary myelofibrosis (MPNs). One of the key mutation drivers is theJAK2V617Fmutation, which has been shown to induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Using whole blood gene expression profiling, deregulation of several oxidative stress and anti-oxidative defense genes has been identified in MPNs, including significant downregulation ofTP53, theNFE2L2orNRF2genes. These genes have a major role for maintaining genomic stability, regulation of the oxidative stress response and in modulating migration or retention of hematopoietic stem cells. Therefore, their deregulation might give rise to increasing genomic instability, increased chronic inflammation and disease progression with egress of hematopoietic stem cells from the bone marrow to seed in the spleen, liver and elsewhere. Interferon-alpha2 (rIFNα) is increasingly being recognized as the drug of choice for the treatment of patients with MPNs. Herein, we report the first gene expression profiling study on the impact of rIFNα upon oxidative stress and antioxidative defense genes in patients with MPNs (n = 33), showing that rIFNα downregulates several upregulated oxidative stress genes and upregulates downregulated antioxidative defense genes. Treatment with rIFNα induced upregulation of 19 genes in ET and 29 genes in PV includingCXCR4andTP53. In conclusion, this rIFNα- mediated dampening of genotoxic damage to hematopoietic cells may ultimately diminish the risk of additional mutations and accordingly clonal evolution and disease progression towards myelofibrotic and leukemic transformation.
Predictors of uncircumcised primary school girls’ intention to genital cutting in South Ethiopia: Application of theory of planned behavior
Authors: Haile Solomon , Sullamo Dawit , Ejajo Tekle , Teshome Firanbon , Kebede Yohannes
Published: June 2022

Background

Female genital cutting (FGC) is still among the most common harmful traditional practices, especially in Africa and Asia. Despite the existence of rich evidence on the prevalence of FGC, information about the primary target audiences’ (girls’) intention toward FGC is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the predictors of primary school girls’ behavioral intention toward female genital cutting.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 08 to 28, 2019 in Dunna district, South Ethiopia. A two-stage sampling technique was used to select 354 uncircumcised female students. A self-administered pre-tested structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were entered into Epi data manager version 4.0.2 and exported to STATA version 16.0. Descriptive analyses such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were performed as necessary. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to identify predictors of primary school girls’ intention to experience FGC.

Results

The mean age of the respondents was 13.09±1.69 years with an age range of 10 to 18 years. Of the 354 respondents, 156 (44.1%) intended to experience FGC. The model accounted for 76.58% of the variance in primary school girls’ intention to experience FGC. Among socio-demographic characteristics, mothers’ educational level of ≤8 grade (β = 1.95, p<0.001) and the age of the respondents (β = -0.23, p = 0.036) predicted primary school girls’ intention toward FGC. Among the constructs of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), direct perceived behavioral control (β = 0.47, p = 0.015), indirect perceived behavioral controls (β = 0.05, p = 0.002), and direct subjective norms (β = 0.18, p = 0.039) predicted primary school girls’ intention to experience FGC.

Conclusions

In this study, we found that primary school girls’ intention toward FGC was high. The educational level of mothers and the age of the respondents had a great influence on primary school girls’ intention to experience FGC. Perceived lack of power and social pressure also predicted primary school girls’ intention to engage in genital cutting. The findings suggest that FGC is mainly performed by the decision of the parents irrespective of the girls’ preferences. Therefore, behavioral change communication interventions such as media campaigns, peer education and community dialogue guided by the TPB for empowering girls to confront FGC and reducing the influence of referents need to be focused.
Correlates of absenteeism at work, school and social activities during menstruation: Evidence from the 2017/2018 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey
Authors: Alor Stanley Kofi , Anaba Emmanuel Anongeba , Adongo Philip Baba
Published: June 2022

Background

Menstruation is a biological process which is crucial for human reproduction. Menstruation is a source of absenteeism, yet the subject matter has not been well explored. This study aimed to assess the correlates of absenteeism at school, work and social activities during menstruation among Ghanaian women of reproductive age.

Methods

This study was an analysis of secondary data from the 2017/18 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Binomial Logistic Regression with the aid of Stata/SE, version 16.

Results

The majority of the participants were aged 25–49 years (63%), married/in union (55%) and resided in urban areas (52%). Nine in ten participants had access to privacy at home and 98% used menstrual materials during their last period. Eight in ten participants used disposable menstrual materials. Exactly 19% of the participants missed school, work or social activities during their last period. Participants who used disposable menstrual materials (AOR = 0.67; 95% CI: 0.52–0.85) were less likely to miss school, work or social activities during menstruation compared to those who used reusable menstrual materials.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that a significant minority of women in Ghana miss academic, economic or social activities during menstruation. Therefore, there is a need for effective interventions to help reduce menstruation-related absenteeism among women and girls in Ghana.
Projecting the SARS-CoV-2 transition from pandemicity to endemicity: Epidemiological and immunological considerations
Authors: Cohen Lily E. , Spiro David J. , Viboud Cecile
Published: June 2022

In this review, we discuss the epidemiological dynamics of different viral infections to project how the transition from a pandemic to endemic Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) might take shape. Drawing from theories of disease invasion and transmission dynamics, waning immunity in the face of viral evolution and antigenic drift, and empirical data from influenza, dengue, and seasonal coronaviruses, we discuss the putative periodicity, severity, and age dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 as it becomes endemic. We review recent studies on SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology, immunology, and evolution that are particularly useful in projecting the transition to endemicity and highlight gaps that warrant further research.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of bluetongue virus in sheep of Chattogram, Bangladesh
Authors: Munmun Tahura Khanam , Islam Shariful , Zamil Shafayat , Rahman Md. Ashiqur , Abedin Josefina , Ahad Abdul , Islam Ariful
Published: June 2022

Background and Aim: Bluetongue (BT) is a non-contagious, infectious disease of wild and domestic ruminant animals caused by the BT virus (BTV). Bangladesh having a border with a BTV-endemic country, India and a substantial number of susceptible animals. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate BTV seroprevalence and potential risk factors.

Materials and Methods: We collected 150 serum samples from indigenous sheep from Chattogram, Bangladesh. We screened the serum samples using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detecting BTV-specific immunoglobulin.

Results: We detected antibodies against BTV in 39.3% (59/150; 95% confidence interval: 31.5–47.6) of all sampled sheep. Factors like sampling site, sheep rearing location, rearing sheep with other farm species, and body condition score had a significant (p < 0.05) influence on the seroprevalence of BTV.

Conclusion: The findings show that indigenous sheep have a higher BTV seroprevalence, necessitating sustained surveillance for early diagnosis and a better understanding of virus epidemiology in Bangladesh.
Cystatin C assay validation using the immunoturbidimetric method to evaluate the renal function of healthy dogs and dogs with acute renal injury
Authors: Paes-Leme Fabiola de Oliveira , de Souza Eliana Matias , Ceregatti Mariah Gois , Campos Marco Túlio Gomes , Vaz de Melo Patricia Donado , da Costa-Val Adriane Pimenta
Published: June 2022

Background and Aim: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with a grave prognosis. A clinical assessment of kidney function can be performed based on the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Cystatin C (CysC) can indicate the GFR or kidney function and its measurement is currently performed using immunological methods such as nephelometry, immunoturbidimetry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in human medicine. However, these techniques are not specific for use in veterinary medicine. This study aimed to validate an immunoturbidimetric assay for serum CysC (sCy) in dogs, determine the sCy reference intervals for healthy dogs, evaluate sCy stability in serum samples, and compare sCy with serum creatinine (sCr) in healthy dogs and dogs with AKI.

Materials and Methods: Forty-three dogs were divided into a control group (n = 19) and an AKI group (n = 24). An immunoturbidimetric method including commercially available human CysC calibrated with canine CysC was used to evaluate canine serum samples.

Results: An average recovery of 97% was observed for canine serum samples. The reference interval for CysC in healthy dogs was 0.57–1.29 mg/L. The sCy concentration in dogs with AKI was significantly higher (2.82 ± 1.46 mg/L) than in healthy dogs (0.93 ± 0.18 mg/L). Statistical analysis confirmed a strong correlation between sCy and sCr (r = 0.94; p < 0.05) in dogs with AKI.

Conclusion: The immunoturbidimetric method of evaluating sCy yielded satisfactory results and can be used for canine samples when a species-specific calibrator is used. Furthermore, sCy is a reliable marker of renal dysfunction in dogs. It is best to store samples for sCy evaluation at temperatures between 4°C and 8°C.
A NEW VARIETY OF CANTHIUMERA GLABRA (RUBIACEAE: VANGUERIEAE)
Authors: Mahyuni Ridha , Mahyuni Ridha , Chikmawati Tatik , Ariyanti Nunik Sri , Kusumawaty Anne
Published: June 2022

MAHYUNI, R., CHIKMAWATI, T., ARIYANTI, N. S. & KUSUMAWATY, A. 2022. A new variety of Canthiumera glabra (Rubiaceae: Vanguerieae). Reinwardtia 21(1): 13‒17. — Canthiumera glabra var. laxiflora (Rubiaceae: Vanguerieae), a new variety from Java and Sumatra is described. The new variety differs from the typical variety in having laxly branched inflorescences and is restricted to south Sumatra (Lampung) and southwestern Java.
A NEW SPECIES OF MUK IA (CUCURBITACEAE) FROM SUMBA ISLAND, INDONESIA
Authors: Pratami Mentari Putri , Chikmawati Tatik , Rugayah Rugayah
Published: June 2022

PRATAMI, M. P., CHIKMAWATI, T. & RUGAYAH. 2022. A new species of Mukia (Cucurbitaceae) from Sumba Island, Indonesia. Reinwardtia 21(1): 35‒40. — Mukia sumbensis Pratami is described and illustrated as well as compared with its closely related species M. maderaspatana (L.) M.Roem. and M. leiosperma (Wight & Arn.) Wight. It differs in its tendril size, stem diameter, petiole hairiness, midrib indumentum on upper leaf surface, as well as in shape, margin, and surface of seed. Anatomically the leaf of the new species has two palisade layers, unlike the other two species which have only one layer.
A Tanári Felelősség Kérdőív és a Tanári Hatékonyság Kérdőív működése pedagógusok és pedagógusjelöltek körében
Authors: Fejes József Balázs , Mezei Tímea , Vígh Tibor , Szenczi Beáta , Rausch Attila
Published: June 2022

Munkánk célja a Lauermann és Karabenick (2013) által kidolgozott Tanári Felelősség Kérdőív (Teacher Responsibility Scale) és Tanári Hatékonyság Kérdőív (Teacher Efficacy Scale) magyar adaptációja, működésének vizsgálata pedagógusok és pedagógusjelöltek körében. A két mérőeszköz ugyanazokra a területekre fókuszáló négy-négy skálája a következő témaköröket fedi le: tanulói motiváció, tanulói teljesítmény, tanár-diák kapcsolat, tanítás hatékonysága. Adatgyűjtésünk során a pedagógusok online (n=166), a pedagógusjelöltek (n=121) papíralapon töltötték ki a kérdőíveket. A mérőeszközök validitását feltáró és megerősítő faktoranalízissel ellenőriztük, az eredeti mérőeszközök struktúrája mindkét részmintán kirajzolódott. A kérdőívek reliabilitása a pedagógusok (Cronbach-α = 0,67–0,94) és a pedagógusjelöltek (Cronbach-α = 0,69–0,88) körében is megfelelő volt. Mindkét részmintán mindkét kérdőív esetében a diákok motivációjára és teljesítményére vonatkozó skálák átlagai a legalacsonyabbak, ami egybevág a nemzetközi tapasztalatokkal. A kétmintás t-próba alapján szignifikáns a különbség a pedagógusok és a pedagógusjelöltek válaszai között a TFK-n az oktatás skála, az THK-n a tanulók teljesítménye és az oktatás skálák vonatkozásában. Minden esetben a pedagógusjelöltek átlagai magasabbak. Eredményeink alapján a pedagógusok és a pedagógusjelöltek személyes felelősségérzete és énhatékonysága vizsgálható az adaptált kérdőívekkel, így a mérőeszközök alkalmazhatók a témával összefüggő jövőbeli kutatásokhoz, valamint a pedagógusok képzésében, továbbképzésben.
A Tanulmányi Reziliencia Kérdőív magyar változatának adaptálása általános és középiskolás mintán
Authors: Kóródi Kitti , Szabó Éva , Jagodics Balázs
Published: June 2022

A tanulmányi reziliencia fontos személyes erőforrás, amely kapcsolatban áll a tanulói jólléttel és a tanulmányi teljesítménnyel. Kutatásunk célja egy olyan mérőeszköz magyar változatának létrehozása volt, amely az iskolai kudarchelyzetekre adott reakciók feltárásával képes azonosítani a tanulmányi reziliencia tényezőit. A kérdőíves vizsgálatunkban 526 általános és középiskolás diák vett részt. Mérőeszközként a Tanulmányi Reziliencia Kérdőívet (ARS-30, Cassidy, 2016) alkalmaztuk a demográfiai adatok feltárása mellett. A kérdőív strukturális elemzése során egy tétel kihagyása után az eredeti háromfaktoros struktúrát igazolta a másodrendű faktorokkal kialakított megerősítő faktorelemzés. A létrejövő kérdőív skálái (adaptív segítségkérés, kitartás és negatív érzelmi reakciók hiánya) jó belső megbízhatósági mutatókkal jellemezhetők. A skálák az életkorral gyenge negatív, míg a tanulmányi eredménnyel és önértékeléssel gyenge pozitív együttjárást mutattak a korrelációelemzés szerint. A nemek között nem találtunk jelentős eltéréseket. Az eredményeink alapján a Tanulmányi Reziliencia Kérdőív egy jól használható, stabil szerkezeti mutatókkal jellemezhető mérőeszköz, amely hasznos eszköz lehet a rezilienciával kapcsolatos iskolai kutatásoknak, fejlesztéseknek.
A MARSI-R kérdőív magyar adaptációja – olvasási stratégiák vizsgálata anya- és idegen nyelven egyetemi hallgatók körében
Authors: Tary Blanka , Molnár Edit Katalin
Published: June 2022

A tanulási célú szövegek olvasása a gyakorlott olvasó számára is jelenthet kihívást (Palincsar és Brown, 1984). A nehézséget okozó szövegek megértésére, az azokban való tájékozódásra jó megoldás az olvasási stratégiák használata. Mivel a tanárok is olvasók, és metakognitív tudásuk a szövegértésről hatással van diákjaikra (Soodal és mtsai, 2017), fontos felmérni, hogy a tanárok következő generációja hogyan olvas, hol van szüksége segítségre. A tanár szakos hallgatókat azonban kevéssé vonják be olvasásistratégia-vizsgálatokba, így első lépésként kell egy megbízható mérőeszköz. Ezért a jelen kutatás célja egyrészt a MARSI-R kérdőív (Mokhtari és mtsai, 2018) magyar nyelvű változatának elkészítése és validálása, másrészt tanár szakos hallgatók anyanyelvi (L1) és idegen nyelvi (L2) olvasásistratégia-használatának megismerése a kérdőív segítségével. 166 tanár szakos hallgató töltötte ki az anonim, online kérdőívet. A mérőeszközül a MARSI-R magyar változata szolgált azzal a változtatással, hogy nem papíron, hanem online töltötték ki a résztvevők, illetve az L1 mellett L2 tanulási célú olvasásra vonatkoztatva is megítélték a résztvevők a stratégiákra vonatkozó kijelentéseket. Ez utóbbi esetben a SORS (Mokhtari és Sheorey, 2002) kérdőív kimondottan idegen nyelven olvasásra vonatkozó két iteme is szerepelt a kérdéssorban. A validitás és reliabilitás vizsgálata érdekében megerősítő faktoranalízist futtattunk, korrelációt és Cronbach alfát számítottunk. Az eredmények azt tükrözik, hogy használható a magyarra fordított mérőeszköz, így további olvasásistratégia-vizsgálatokat tesz lehetővé. A tanár szakos hallgatók stratégiahasználata magas vagy közepes szintű. L1-en leggyakrabban a problémamegoldó, majd az átfogó, legkevésbé pedig a támogató stratégiákat használják. L2-n szintén a problémamegoldó stratégiákat használják leggyakrabban, ezt követik a támogató, végül pedig az átfogó stratégiák. Az eredmények alapján pozitív képet kapunk a tanár szakos hallgatók stratégiahasználatáról, ám nyilvánvalóvá vált, hogy további fejlesztésből is profitálnának.