bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating balance, gait, and physical function in people who have undergone thoracic surgery for a diagnosis of lung cancer: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Tough Daniel , Dunning Joel , Robinson Jonathan , Dixon John , Ferguson Jonathan , Paul Ian , Harrison Samantha L
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Symptoms associated with lung cancer and thoracic surgery might increase fall risk. We aimed to investigate: 1) balance, gait and functional status in people post-thoracic surgery compared to healthy controls; 2) perceptions of balance, gait and functional status.

Methods

Recruitment targeted older adults (≥50 years) who had undergone thoracic surgery for a diagnosis of lung cancer in the previous 3 months, and healthy age-matched controls. Dynamic and static balance, gait velocity, knee-extension strength and physical activity levels were assessed using the BESTest, Kistler force plate, GAITRite system, Biodex System 3 and CHAMPS questionnaire, respectively. Two-part semi-structured interviews were conducted post-surgery.

Results

Individuals post-surgery ( n = 15) had worse dynamic balance and gait, and lower levels of moderate/vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (all p<0.05) versus healthy controls ( n = 15). Strength did not differ between groups ( p > 0.05). No associations between BESTest and strength or physical activity existed post-surgery ( p > 0.05). Three themes were identified: 1) Symptoms affect daily activities; 2) Functional assessments alter perceptions of balance ability and 3) Open to supervised rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Balance, gait and MVPA are impaired post-thoracic surgery, yet balance was not viewed to be important in enabling activities of daily living. However, supervised rehabilitation was considered acceptable.
Needleless electrospun mats based on polyamidoamine dendritic polymers for encapsulation of essential oils in personal respiratory equipment
Authors: Mounesan Maryam , Akbari Somaye , Brycki Bogumil E
Published: October 2021

The ever-increasing concern of air pollution triggered by broad-spreading contagious disease, bioterrorism, and release of dust particles in the air is targeted to be addressed in this paper by developing a novel personal respiratory equipment (PRE). For this purpose, polyamidoamine dendritic polymers (PAMAMs) were utilized not only for encapsulating tea tree essential oil (TEO), an antimicrobial material, but also for battling against perilous bioaerosols. Furthermore, TEO is encapsulated inside both PAMAM and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) electrospun nanofibers. Results clarified that electrospun samples containing both TEO and PAMAM possess thinner nanofibers with 440 nm reduction in their average diameter, and pursuantly higher filtration efficiency against both NaCl and paraffin oil mist particles about 98% and well above 99%, respectively. Herein, the electrospinning method is employed first for high porosity, enhanced surface area to volume ratio, and interconnected pores of resulted nanofibers, which are strongly useful in capturing the dust and allowing more air to flow and pass through, and creating a good air circulation. Second, the synergistic effect of using both electrospinning and PAMAM as the host molecules is also a promising approach for addressing the volatility of fragrances by producing a controlled release of TEO.
Tracing the Link Between Transformative Education and Social Action Through Stories of Change
Authors: den Heyer Molly , Smith Eric , Irving Catherine
Published: October 2021

The following article describes how one organization, the Coady International Institute, met multiple monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning objectives while still staying true to its roots in transformative adult education. The Learning from Stories of Change (LSC) methodology brought together stories-based techniques with aspects of the Most Significant Change and the SenseMaker frameworks. The combination of methods was designed to facilitate reflection and a degree of participatory analysis in an online environment that reached over 400 graduates in 64 countries. It produced a rich set of data that provided key insights into program design and confirmed the transformative adult education model—particularly, that increases in knowledge and skills must be accompanied by changes in attitudes and motivations in order to make the leap from concepts to practice. This leads to individual behavioral changes that will in turn initiate positive social change in communities around the world.
Construct Validity of the Upper-Limb Interlimb Coordination Test in Stroke
Authors: Molad Roni , Levin Mindy F.
Published: October 2021

Background

Coordination impairments are under-evaluated in patients with stroke due to the lack of validated assessments resulting in an unclear relationship between coordination deficits and functional limitations.

Objective

Determine the construct validity of the new clinical upper-limb (UL) Interlimb Coordination test (ILC2) in individuals with chronic stroke.

Methods

Thirteen individuals with stroke, ≥40 years, with ≥30° isolated supination of the more-affected (MAff) arm, who could understand instructions and 13 healthy controls of similar age participated in a cross-sectional study. Participants performed synchronous bilateral anti-phase forearm rotations for 10 seconds in 4 conditions: self-paced internally-paced (IP1), fast internally-paced (IP2), slow externally-paced (EP1), and fast externally-paced (EP2). Primary (continuous relative phase-CRP, cross-correlation, lag) and secondary outcome measures (UL and trunk kinematics) were compared between groups.

Results

Participants with stroke made slower UL movements than controls in all conditions, except EP1. Cross-correlation coefficients were lower (i.e., closer to 0) in stroke in IP1, but CRP and lag were similar between groups. In IP1 and matched-speed conditions (IP1 for healthy and IP2 for stroke), stroke participants used compensatory trunk and shoulder movements. The synchronicity sub-scale and total scores of ILC2 were related to temporal coordination in IP2. Interlimb Coordination test total score was related to greater shoulder rotation of the MAff arm. Interlimb Coordination test scores were not related to clinical scores.

Conclusion

Interlimb Coordination test is a valid clinical measure that may be used to objectively assess UL interlimb coordination in individuals with chronic stroke. Further reliability testing is needed to determine the clinical utility of the scale.
Review and classification of trajectory summarisation algorithms: From compression to segmentation
Authors: Amigo Daniel , Sánchez Pedroche David , García Jesús , Molina José Manuel
Published: October 2021

With the continuous development and cost reduction of positioning and tracking technologies, a large amount of trajectories are being exploited in multiple domains for knowledge extraction. A trajectory is formed by a large number of measurements, where many of them are unnecessary to describe the actual trajectory of the vehicle, or even harmful due to sensor noise. This not only consumes large amounts of memory, but also makes the extracting knowledge process more difficult. Trajectory summarisation techniques can solve this problem, generating a smaller and more manageable representation and even semantic segments. In this comprehensive review, we explain and classify techniques for the summarisation of trajectories according to their search strategy and point evaluation criteria, describing connections with the line simplification problem. We also explain several special concepts in trajectory summarisation problem. Finally, we outline the recent trends and best practices to continue the research in next summarisation algorithms.
Toward lightweight intrusion detection systems using the optimal and efficient feature pairs of the Bot-IoT 2018 dataset
Authors: Özer Erman , İskefiyeli Murat , Azimjonov Jahongir
Published: October 2021

Intrusion detection systems play a vital role in traffic flow monitoring on Internet of Things networks by providing a secure network traffic environment and blocking unwanted traffic packets. Various intrusion detection systems approaches have been proposed previously based on data mining, fuzzy techniques, genetic, neurogenetic, particle swarm intelligence, rough sets, and conventional machine learning. However, these methods are not energy efficient and do not perform accurately due to the inappropriate feature selection or the use of full features of datasets. In general, datasets contain more than 10 features. Any machine learning–based lightweight intrusion detection systems trained with full features turn into an inefficient and heavyweight intrusion detection systems. This case challenges Internet of Things networks that suffer from power efficiency problems. Therefore, lightweight (energy-efficient), accurate, and high-performance intrusion detection systems are paramount instead of inefficient and heavyweight intrusion detection systems. To address these challenges, a new approach that can help to determine the most effective and optimal feature pairs of datasets which enable the development of lightweight intrusion detection systems was proposed. For this purpose, 10 machine learning algorithms and the recent BoT-IoT (2018) dataset were selected. Twelve best features recommended by the developers of this dataset were used in this study. Sixty-six unique feature pairs were generated from the 12 best features. Next, 10 full-feature-based intrusion detection systems were developed by training the 10 machine learning algorithms with the 12 full features. Similarly, 660 feature-pair-based lightweight intrusion detection systems were developed by training the 10 machine learning algorithms via each feature pair out of the 66 feature pairs. Moreover, the 10 intrusion detection systems trained with 12 best features and the 660 intrusion detection systems trained via 66 feature pairs were compared to each other based on the machine learning algorithmic groups. Then, the feature-pair-based lightweight intrusion detection systems that achieved the accuracy level of the 10 full-feature-based intrusion detection systems were selected. This way, the optimal and efficient feature pairs and the lightweight intrusion detection systems were determined. The most lightweight intrusion detection systems achieved more than 90% detection accuracy.
Higher Playing Times Accumulated Across Entire Games and Prior to Intense Passages Reduce the Peak Demands Reached by Elite, Junior, Male Basketball Players
Authors: Alonso Pérez-Chao Enrique , Lorenzo Alberto , Scanlan Aaron , Lisboa Pedro , Sosa Carlos , Gómez Miguel Ángel
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of different factors on the external peak demands (PD) encountered by elite, junior, male basketball players in games, including the (1) total playing time during games and (2) playing time accumulated directly prior to each PD episode. Workload variables included the PD for total distance, distance covered in different intensity zones, accelerations >2 m·s-2 (ACC), decelerations <-2 m·s-2 (DEC), and PlayerLoad. PD were calculated across different sample durations for each variable. Linear mixed models were used to identify differences in PD between groups based on playing times. PD for total distance (5-min window), high-speed running (>18 km·h-1) distance (2-min window), and ACC (30-s, 45-s, 1-min, 2-min, and 5-min windows) were significantly ( p < .05) higher for players who completed lower total playing times (16.6 ± 2.4 min) than players who completed higher total playing times (25.0 ± 3.4 min). The PD for total distance (30-s, 45-s, 1-min, and 2-min windows), high-speed running distance (30-s and 5-min windows), and PlayerLoad (1-min and 2-min windows) were significantly ( p < .05) higher for players who accumulated lower playing times before each PD episode than players who accumulated higher playing times before each PD episode. Players who undertake less playing time overall and prior to each PD episode can reach higher peak external loads aggregated across varied time windows. These findings can inform tactical coaching decisions during games for high external loads to be accomplished during important passages of play.
Predictors of unfavorable outcomes despite substantial reperfusion: Insights from Analysis of Revascularization in Ischemic Stroke With EmboTrap II Study
Authors: Siddiqui Adnan H , Waqas Muhammad , Andersson Tommy , Saver Jeffrey L , Mattle Heinrich P , Bozorgchami Hormozd , Ribó Marc , Zaidat Osama O
Published: October 2021

Background

A considerable proportion of stroke patients have unfavorable outcomes despite substantial reperfusion during mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion. This study aimed to determine predictors of unfavorable outcomes despite substantial reperfusion (modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction score of ≥2b).

Methods

We conducted a post hoc analysis of Analysis of Revascularization in Ischemic Stroke With EmboTrap, a prospective, multicenter study on the efficacy of the EmboTrap revascularization device. We included patients with anterior large vessel occlusion, substantial reperfusion within three passes, and 3-month follow-up. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of dependency or death (modified Rankin Score 3–6) at 90 days.

Results

Of the 176 patients included in the study, 124 (70.45%) achieved modified Rankin Score of 0–2 at 90 days and 52 (29.6%) had modified Rankin Score of 3–6. On univariate analysis, patient age and initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score were significantly higher in the modified Rankin Score of 3–6 groups (71.4 ± 11.3 years vs. 66.0 ± 13.1 years, 0.01; 18.9 ± 4.13 vs. 14.6 ± 4.36, p < 0.01, respectively). Mean number of passes and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage were also higher in patients with modified Rankin Score of 3–6 (2.46 ± 1.42 vs. 1.65 ± 0.9, p < 0.01; 13.5% vs. 2.4%, p = 0.008). On multivariate analysis, initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score and mean number of passes and were independent predictors of modified Rankin Score of 3–6 at 90 days.

Conclusion

More severe initial neurologic deficit and higher number of passes in patients with substantial reperfusion were independent predictors of dependency or death. These findings highlight a reduction in the number of passes required to achieve reperfusion as a therapeutic target to improve the outcome after thrombectomy.
Detection of residual varicose veins with near infrared light in the early period after varicose surgery and near infrared light assisted sclerotherapy
Authors: Kahraman Nail , Yümün Gündüz , Demir Deniz , Özsin Kadir K , Sünbül Sadık A , Gücü Arif , Şeker İbrahim B , Özyaprak Buket , Yavuz Şenol , Göncü Mehmet T
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Varicose veins that cannot be seen with the naked eye can be easily detected with Near Infrared (NIR) light. With a minimally invasive procedure performed with NIR light guided, the need for reoperation is reduced, while optimal treatment of venous insufficiency and symptoms is provided. In this study, the detection of residual varicose veins after varicose vein surgery using NIR light and the results of treatment of sclerotherapy were investigated.

Methods

In this retrospective study, treatment and clinical outcomes of patients’ who underwent NIR light-guided foam sclerotherapy for Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) (C1, C2) stage residual varicose veins after surgical varicose treatment between 2014 and 2017 were examined. Data of patients who underwent foam sclerotherapy with NIR light were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 151 patients and 171 lower extremity varicose veins were treated with surgery. 55 (35.7%) of the patients were male, and 96 (62.3%) were female. Their age ranges from 20 to 64, with an average age of 45.38. 4 (2.6%) of the patients had phlebectomy. 137 of patients (90.7%) had ligation of perforated veins, phlebectomy, and great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping, 10 of patients (6.6%) had GSV stripping, perforating vein ligation, phlebectomy, and small saphenous vein (SSV) surgery. No residual leakage was observed in the controls of GSV, SSV, and perforating veins by duplex ultrasonography (DUS). In the first month after varicose surgery, an average of 1.64 ± 1.05 sessions of sclerotherapy was applied to patients with CEAP C1, C2 stage residual varicose veins. 70 patients had one session of sclerotherapy, 37 patients had two sessions of sclerotherapy, 20 patients had three sessions of sclerotherapy, and 11 patients had four sessions of sclerotherapy administrated. The need for complementary therapy was required for all female patients; 13 of the male patients did not require complementary sclerotherapy. While single-session sclerotherapy was applied to most male patients (32 (58.18%), 10 (18.18%) patients received two sclerotherapy sessions. After completing sclerotherapy, 7 (4.63%) patients had superficial venous thrombosis, and 13 (8.60%) patients had hyperpigmentation.

Conclusion

Surgical treatment is a safe and effective technique in venous insufficiency. Nevertheless, residual varicose veins may remain, and these can be detected noninvasively with NIR light. Foam sclerotherapy with NIR light is a minimally invasive and safe treatment method for small residual varicose veins after the operation. We think that sclerotherapy with NIR light as a complementary treatment is a practical, reliable, and demanding treatment for clinical improvement, especially in female patients.
SOX2 as a prognostic marker and a potential molecular target in cervical cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Dandan , Wang Jian , Yan Mingyu , Xu Yaohui
Published: October 2021

Background

Sex determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2) has been reported as a potential therapeutic target for cancer. However, the role of SOX2 in cervical cancer remains largely undetermined. This study was performed to evaluate the correlation of SOX2 with clinical characteristics and prognosis in cervical cancer.

Methods

Multiple databases were systematically searched for eligible publications. The combined odds ratios (ORs) or hazard ratios (HRs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the effect sizes.

Results

A total of 17 studies with 1906 participants were identified. SOX2 expression was higher in cervical cancer than in the normal control group (OR = 10.83, 95% CI = 6.64–17.67, P < 0.001), while no significant difference was observed between cervical cancer and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. SOX2 expression was not associated with age, tumor stage, and lymph node metastasis, but was correlated with tumor grade (grade 2–3 vs. grade 1: OR = 4.59, 95% CI = 2.76–7.62, P < 0.001) and tumor size (≥4 cm vs. ≤4 cm: OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.05–2.60, P = 0.028). Based on multivariate Cox analysis, SOX2 expression was not correlated with overall survival, but was closely associated with poor recurrence-free survival (HR = 5.83, 95% CI = 1.35–25.16, P = 0.018) and progress-free survival HR = 2.29, 95% CI = 1.01–5.19, P = 0.046).

Conclusion

SOX2 may serve as a novel prognostic factor and a promising molecular target for cervical cancer.
Using wearable cameras to investigate health-related daily life experiences: A literature review of precautions and risks in empirical studies
Authors: Meyer Laurel E , Porter Lauren , Reilly Meghan E , Johnson Caroline , Safir Salman , Greenfield Shelly F , Silverman Benjamin C , Hudson James I , Javaras Kristin N
Published: October 2021

Automated, wearable cameras can benefit health-related research by capturing accurate and objective information about individuals’ daily experiences. However, wearable cameras present unique privacy- and confidentiality-related risks due to the possibility of the images capturing identifying or sensitive information from participants and third parties. Although best practice guidelines for ethical research with wearable cameras have been published, limited information exists on the risks of studies using wearable cameras. The aim of this literature review was to survey risks related to using wearable cameras, and precautions taken to reduce those risks, as reported in empirical research. Forty-five publications, comprising 36 independent studies, were reviewed, and findings revealed that participants’ primary concerns with using wearable cameras included physical inconvenience and discomfort in certain situations (e.g. public settings). None of the studies reviewed reported any serious adverse events. Although it is possible that reported findings do not include all risks experienced by participants in research with wearable cameras, our findings suggest a low level of risk to participants. However, it is important that investigators adopt recommended precautions, which can promote autonomy and reduce risks, including participant discomfort.
The role of self-evaluation in predicting attitudes toward supporters of COVID-19-related conspiracy theories: A direct and a conceptual replication of Cichocka et al. (2016)
Authors: Siem Birte , Kretzmeyer, Benedikt , Stürmer Stefan
Published: October 2021

We examined the role of people’s self-evaluation in predicting their attitudes toward supporters of COVID-19-related conspiracy theories by replicating and extending the findings of a study by Cichocka et al. (2016, Study 3) in two preregistered studies (total N = 1179). Study 1, a direct replication, confirmed that narcissism and self-esteem—two different sources of people’s self-evaluation—differentially predicted their beliefs in a series of well-known conspiracy theories (not related to COVID-19), and served as mutual suppressor variables. Specifically, narcissism was positively related and self-esteem was negatively related to conspiracy beliefs, especially when the respective other predictor was controlled for. Study 2 extended Cichocka’s and our Study 1’s findings by testing the differential role of self-esteem and narcissism in predicting a COVID-19-specific criterion. Specifically, we focused on people’s rejection of supporters of COVID-19 conspiracy theories, a criterion we deem particularly important in curtailing the spread of these theories. Results were generally in line with previous findings, but effects were substantially weaker. As suggested by exploratory analyses, this might be due to the fact that the overall rejection of supporters measure comprises not only items capturing rejection of supporters but also items capturing low beliefs in conspiracy theories. These two distinct components differentially related to self-esteem and narcissism: the differential role of self-esteem and narcissism could only be replicated for the “low belief” subcomponent (thus replicating findings from the original study and from Study 1) but not for the “rejection of supporters” subcomponent. The present work thus contributes to recent research suggesting that low belief in conspiracy theories and the rejection of their supporters might be qualitatively different responses with unique antecedents.
Early childhood educators’ solidarity and struggles for recognition
Authors: Quinones Gloria , Barnes Melissa , Berger Emily
Published: October 2021

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) educators’ well-being and emotional demands during COVID require careful attention. This article explores the emotional demands experienced by ECEC educators in Australia during ongoing periods of lockdown. A survey was designed to gather quantitative and qualitative data and participants were asked to participate in in-depth interviews. Thirty participants were interviewed to explore personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic; of these, a selected sample of six participants is presented, drawing on Honneth (1995) as an analytical framework. The findings show ECEC educators struggle for recognition and how solidarity amongst educators emerged as a key response. Implications provide impetus for the active recognition of the early childhood profession. Solidarity as a new concept in ECEC includes the recognition of the early childhood profession at a societal level, recognising the significant professional work early childhood educators accomplish, and their struggle during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Network Pharmacological Dissection of the Mechanisms of Eucommiae Cortex-Achyranthis Radix Combination for Intervertebral Disc Herniation Treatment
Authors: Lee Ho-Sung , Lee In-Hee , Kang Kyungrae , Jung Minho , Yang Seung Gu , Kwon Tae-Wook , Lee Dae-Yeon
Published: October 2021

Eucommiae cortex (EC) and Achyranthis radix (AR) are herbal medicines widely used in combination for the treatment of intervertebral disc herniation (IDH). The mechanisms of action of the herbal combination have not been understood from integrative and comprehensive points of view. By adopting network pharmacological methodology, we aimed to investigate the pharmacological properties of the EC-AR combination as a therapeutic agent for IDH at a systematic molecular level. Using the pharmacokinetic information for the chemical ingredients of the EC-AR combination obtained from the comprehensive herbal drug-associated databases, we determined its 31 bioactive ingredients and 68 IDH-related therapeutic targets. By analyzing their enrichment for biological functions, we observed that the targets of the EC-AR combination were associated with the regulation of angiogenesis; cytokine and chemokine activity; oxidative and inflammatory stress responses; extracellular matrix organization; immune response; and cellular processes such as proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, differentiation, migration, and activation. Pathway enrichment investigation revealed that the EC-AR combination may target IDH-pathology-associated signaling pathways, such as those of cellular senescence and chemokine, neurotrophin, TNF, MAPK, toll-like receptor, and VEGF signaling, to exhibit its therapeutic effects. Collectively, these data provide mechanistic insights into the pharmacological activity of herbal medicines for the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases such as IDH.
The Role of Bone Grafts in Preventing Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: Histomorphometric, Immunohistochemical, and Clinical Evaluation in Animal Model
Authors: da Silva Jonathan Ribeiro , Balbas Maria Cristina de Moraes , Corrêa Caroline Águeda , Zanela Manuella , Okamoto Roberta , Pereira Rodrigo dos Santos , Homsi Nicolas , Hochuli-Vieira Eduardo
Published: October 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of inorganic bovine bone graft (Lumina Bone, Criteria, Brazil) and beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) graft (ChronOS, Synthes, Brazil) in rats with the risk of developing post-extraction medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ).

Methods:

Eighteen male Wistar rats weighing 350 to 450 g were induced to develop MRONJ using zoledronic acid for 5 weeks. In the sixth week, the right maxillary first molar was extracted. The animals in Group I (G1) did not receive bone grafts after tooth extraction, while Group II (G2) animals received inorganic bovine bone grafts, and Group III (G3) animals received beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) grafts. Clinical evaluation and histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analyses were performed. ANOVA and Tukey’s statistical tests were used and a level of significance was considered to be 5%.

Results:

In the clinical evaluation, animals from G2 and G3 did not present clinical manifestations of osteonecrosis, unlike the control group (G1) animals, which presented necrotic bone tissue exposure in all samples. In the histomorphometric evaluation, animals in G3 showed greater formation of bone tissue (66%) and less formation of bone lacuna (18%) than animals in G1 (58%/32%) and in G2 (59%/27%) ( P < 0.05). Moderate (++) immunostaining was observed in G2 and G3 for RANKL, TRAP, and OC, while G1 showed moderate (++) labeling for OC and mild (+) immunostaining for TRAP and RANKL.

Conclusions:

Greater formation of bone tissue and fewer bone lacunae were found in animals treated with β-TCP. In clinical evaluation, bone graft groups presented with the clinical manifestation of MRONJ and showed higher intensity of immunostaining for TRAP and RANKL. Despite the limitations of experimental animal studies, the results of this work may assist in the development of future clinical research for the prevention of MRONJ.
Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of carbapenemase- and extended spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ozaenae clinical isolates within a hospital in Panama City
Authors: Vega Silvio , Acosta Fermín , Landires Iván , Morán Mitchelle , Gonzalez Johanna , Pimentel-Peralta Gumercindo , Núñez-Samudio Virginia , Goodridge Amador
Published: October 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae spp ozaenae is a versatile bacterial species able to acquire antimicrobial resistance; the species presents a higher antimicrobial resistance profile compared to Klebsiella pneumoniae spp pneumoniae. Carbapenemase and extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria commonly arise in clinical settings where antimicrobial stewardship is limited. Our study aims to report the phenotypical and genetic characteristics of nosocomial Klebsiella pneumoniae spp ozaenae isolates associated with mortality collected from a tertiary-level hospital in Panama City. In October 2020, 11 consecutive multidrug-resistant Gram-negative isolates were recovered from secretions and blood cultures from hospitalized patients. Nearly 90% (10/11) of these patients died, and bacteria was obtained from six patients for investigation. Biochemical evaluation of the six isolates revealed the presence of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae spp ozaenae. Phenotypic evaluation indicated resistance to carbapenemase and EBSL. In contrast, genetic evaluation by PCR showed that only 30% (2/6) were resistant to CTX-M-1 (CTX-M group 1), whereas 60.7% (4/6) presented carbapenemase resistance genes, and 33.3% (2/6) presented New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase ( NDM) resistance genes. Klebsiella pneumoniae ST258 was identified in 83.3% (5/6) of the isolates. Phylogenetic analysis using 16S revealed low homology among the six isolates. These results suggest that antibiotic resistance genes may have been incorporated into these Klebsiella pneumoniae spp ozaenae isolates within the hospital environment. We recommend strengthening the antimicrobial stewardship program and antibiotic control policy, as well as heightened infection control and prevention measures, such as ward sanitation and increased hand washing frequency.
Adherence to diabetes self-care management and associated factors among people with diabetes in Gamo Gofa Zone public health hospitals
Authors: Agidew Eskeziyaw , Wale Mengistu Zelalem , Kerebih Haregewoyin , Yirsaw Mesenbet Terefe , Zewdie Tadiwos Hailu , Girma Meseret , Miskir Abebaw
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Adherence to diabetes self-care management is a lifestyle modification for people with diabetes which includes; medication, dietary practice and regular physical activity. The objective of this study was to assess the adherence to diabetes self-care management and associated factors among people with diabetes in Gamo Gofa Zone, Southern, Ethiopia, 2018.

Methods:

Institutional-based cross-sectional study design with a systematic random sampling technique was conducted. A total 635 diabetic participants were involved in this study. Data were collected using structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics were employed to describe the study population in relation to the relevant variables. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with the outcome variables. P-value < 0.05 with 95% confidence interval was used to declare statistical significance.

Results:

The prevalence of good adherence toward diabetes self-care management was 341 (53.7%), (95% confidence interval = 46.09, 61.31). Regarding diabetes self-care practices, poor adherence had been detected in blood sugar measurement practice, dietary feeding practice, physical exercise and eye examination practice. The multivariable analysis indicated that government workers [adjusted odds ratio = 2.74 (1.03, 7.30)], training on diabetes self-care practice [adjusted odds ratio = 3.13 (1.89, 5.16)], diabetes’ association membership [adjusted odds ratio = 1.59 (1.01, 2.50)], having personal glucometer at home [adjusted odds ratio = 2.70 (1.37, 5.33)], duration of diabetic illness >10 years [adjusted odds ratio = 9.59 (3.99, 23.05)] and people with diabetes who were not developing complication [adjusted odds ratio = 1.54 (1.01, 2.33)] were significantly associated with good adherence to diabetes self-care management practice.

Conclusion:

Significant number of diabetes patients had poor adherence to diabetes self-care practice. Special focus should be given to farmers with diabetes, those with diabetic complication and for those with duration of diabetes less than 10 years. Periodical training should be given for people with diabetes on dietary feeding, physical exercise and eye examination practice.
Politically Motivated Avoidance in Social Networks: A Study of Facebook and the 2020 Presidential Election
Authors: Neely Stephen R.
Published: October 2021

This study considers politically motivated unfriending/unfollowing on Facebook in the lead up to the 2020 Presidential election. As social media has grown more central to public discourse, it has been suggested that these types of avoidance behaviors might contribute to the formation of partisan echo chambers, whereby users may limit their exposure to competing viewpoints and corrective information by eliminating the network ties that transmit it. Building on prior research, this study explores the relationship between politically motivated avoidance and user perceptions of social media’s credibility as a source of political information. A pre-election survey of voting age adults in the state of Florida is analyzed to identify both the frequency and predictors of politically motivated avoidance. The results suggest that avoidance is a function of both individual political characteristics and user perceptions of information credibility. The findings are considered in the context of previous literature, and important avenues for future research are discussed.
Exploring the Discursive Function of Hashtags: A Semantic Network Analysis of JUUL-Related Instagram Messages
Authors: Kostygina Ganna , Feng Miao , Czaplicki Lauren , Tran Hy , Tulsiani Shreya , Perks Siobhan N. , Emery Sherry , Schillo Barbara
Published: October 2021

This study used semantic network analysis to investigate the themes of JUUL electronic cigarette-related messages on Instagram posted by three account types (commercial, vape community, and organic users) and explore the function of hashtags in the JUUL-related discourse across these groups. Posts were collected from 1 March 2018 to 15 May 2018. We conducted network analyses for each user group, with separate analyses to examine texts with and without inclusion of hashtags. Network statistics determined which words occurred most frequently, which words co-occurred or clustered together, and what communication function hashtags perform. Analyses of message content with hashtags included revealed that the largest cluster of terms by account type was brand promotion (commercial), brand engagement (community), and youth social use of JUUL and other substances, such as marijuana (organic users). On removal of hashtags, the largest cluster for each group was online and offline retailer promotion (commercial), JUUL promotion or shares of existing promotional content (community), and youth social use (organic users). Commercial accounts used hashtags to increase brand visibility and engage with vape communities present on Instagram. Community accounts served as discursive intermediaries between commercial accounts and organic users, fostering organic user engagement with brands. Social media serve as an extension of real-life peer groups among youth and young adults. Community accounts, which likely have greater credibility among users compared to commercial accounts, may help enhance the effects of targeted promotion and normalize vaping comprehensive regulation of commercial digital tobacco marketing is necessary to reduce the amount of commercial content youth and other consumers are exposed to through overt commercial and influential community accounts.
Factors Associated With a Persistent Seronegative Status 1 Year After a SARS-CoV-2 Massive Infection Outbreak in Community Dwellers Living in Rural Ecuador: A Prospective Population-based Study
Authors: Del Brutto Oscar H. , Costa Aldo F. , Recalde Bettsy Y. , Mera Robertino M.
Published: October 2021

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is affecting millions of people living in rural areas of Low- and Middle-Income Countries and is causing an already anticipated devastating effect on the health and economics of these populations. More information is needed to modify behaviors that may counterbalance the consequences of mass spread of the virus in these underserved communities. This study aimed to identify factors associated with a persistent SARS-CoV-2 seronegative status 1 year after a massive infection outbreak in middle-aged and older adults living in rural Ecuador.

Methods

Individuals enrolled in the Atahualpa Project Cohort as of March 2020 received 5 rounds of tests for determination of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in blood. Individuals who remained seronegative up to April 2021 were considered “persistently seronegative.” An adjusted Poisson regression model was fitted to estimate the incidence risk ratio of factors directly or inversely associated with a persistent seronegative status.

Results

A total of 673 individuals received baseline tests. Thirty-one declined consent or died and 429 seroconverted, leaving 213 seronegative subjects. Average SARS-CoV-2 incidence rate was 9.87 events (95% C.I.: 8.91-10.83) per 100 person-months of observation. The use of flushing toilet systems (instead of open latrines) increased 1.5 times the possibility of remaining seronegative. Likewise, every additional bedroom in the house increased by 15% the possibility of remaining seronegative. In contrast, every additional person in the house and having high cholesterol levels significantly reduced the possibility of remaining seronegative.

Conclusions

The use of flushing toilet systems and the number of bedrooms in the house directly influenced the possibility of remaining seronegative among individuals living in this rural setting. Study results also demonstrated a sustained transmission of the virus even after a significant proportion of the population has been infected. Our findings reinforce the mass spread of SARS-CoV-2 in rural communities.
Enhancing Sustainable Management of Public Natural Forests Through Public Private Partnerships in Kenya
Authors: Chisika Sylvester Ngome , Yeom Chunho
Published: October 2021

Many countries are fast implementing forest conservation Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) as an innovative conservation approach. However, with the growing human needs, forest management challenges, especially limited funding for forest conservation are increasing the need for lessons on Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in many developing countries. This study addressed this challenge from the perspective of sustainable forest management using literature review and document content analysis. Results from Kenya substantiate that despite the complex development challenges, public natural forests provide many benefits that can be delivered to citizens through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs). Toward actualizing these partnership possibilities, the government has developed policies and established institutions to coordinate and enhance their implementation. These results imply the presence fairly stable conditions required for building trust and confidence amongst private partners involved in the governance of public natural forests. However, there are some significant challenges that should be addressed if PPPs are to be applied in forest management as truly a transformative conservation approach
Evaluation of the effectiveness of EFL online teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zou Bin , Huang Lulu , Ma Wulin , Qiu Yuqing
Published: October 2021

Online teaching has been massively conducted during the novel coronavirus period all over the world. How to evaluate online teaching has been increasingly researched recently. This study looked at how English as a foreign language (EFL) teaching was delivered online by university teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated university teachers and students’ perception of effective EFL online teaching and learning based on several evaluation modes in using technology in education. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews from teachers and students in a variety of provinces in Mainland China. The results showed that various methods were used to deliver online EFL courses and these approaches are found to correlate with each other. Teachers and students provided positive comments on online teaching and were satisfied with their online teaching and learning. Participants also noted effective ways in online EFL teaching. The findings indicated that when teachers have more training, more skills, and more confidence, they could deliver more effective online teaching and learning.
Blended Course Evaluation in the Context of English for Specific Purposes: Accountability and Development
Authors: Zhang Rui
Published: October 2021

Blended learning utilizes the affordances of information and communication technology to integrate online learning with face-to-face teaching. It facilitates to meet students’ disciplinary learning needs and helps them achieve the intended learning outcomes so that they can advance in their professional study. The present study focuses on developing and evaluating a blended course implemented in the context of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) from the perspective of accountability and development, with the purpose of assessing the effectiveness of the course from three aspects: the satisfaction of students’ learning requirements, the achievement of their learning outcomes, and the ongoing refinement of the course. Data of the course evaluation survey were quantitatively analyzed by descriptive statistics and data of students’ learning reflections were qualitatively analyzed by thematic analysis. Results indicate that, firstly, students are satisfied with the course design and its implementation; secondly, the course modification should focus on adding academic presentations, teaching in English with trans-semiotising approach and consolidating the disciplinary community, which in turn activate students’ knowledge-sharing and critical thinking. The study offers a systematic framework to evaluate the ESP blended course, which also has implications for evaluating blended courses in other language curricula.
Cultural Mistrust and Social Media Relationships
Authors: Alemán Ana M. Martínez , Barone Nicole , Rowan-Kenyon Heather T.
Published: October 2021

This study sought to examine the suitability of the Cultural Mistrust Inventory (CMI) items for contemporary interracial social relationships on social media. The study employed qualitative cognitive interviews with 28 persons of color in the U.S. Findings suggest that the CMI may not be a suitable measure for accurately assessing relational trust across different racial groups on social media due to generational change in consciousness about race relations, and the perceived ambiguity of the CMI items. Findings also reveal that the CMI is limited in its ability to assess racial trust on social media and may not account for how trust manifests across different social media platforms. These findings suggest that the continued use of the CMI to assess contemporary interracial relationships is not recommended.
Status and Risk Factors of Chinese Teenagers’ Exposure to Cyberbullying
Authors: Zhou Shuhuan
Published: October 2021

The debate over teenagers’ exposure to cyberbullying has aroused broad public concern, but there are few nationwide empirical studies on teen cyberbullying in China. Based on social cognitive theory, this study analyzes the current state of cyberbullying among Chinese teenagers using a questionnaire survey ( N = 1,538) distributed to teenagers in eastern, central, and western regions of China. The results suggest that 18.1% ( N = 279) of respondents reported having bullied someone and 54.6% ( N = 839) reported having been bullied online, and that age, gender, individual school performance, and risky online behaviors may predict different cyberbullying behaviors. Enhancing teenagers’ awareness of the importance of protecting their personal information is critical, along with implementing social protective measures to contain cyberbullying.
The Necessary Thread of Mindfulness Intervention Fidelity Assurance: Enabling an Organizational Strategy to Promote Health Care Professional Well-Being
Authors: Klatt Maryanna D. , Bawa Rani , Gabram Olivia , Westrick Alexis , Blake Amanda
Published: October 2021

Purpose

A growing waitlist for Mindfulness in Motion (MIM), an evidence-based worksite mindfulness-based intervention, necessitated a training system with built in fidelity assurance to meet program demand. MIM was delivered as part of an organizational strategy in a large academic health center to enhance Health Care Professional (HCP) well-being. In order to ensure that the intervention was being delivered the same way to each cohort, a process to ensure intervention fidelity was developed for MIM.

Method

The core components of MIM informed the development of a detailed fidelity monitoring system to ensure consistent intervention delivery. Each MIM cohort was conducted with both trained facilitators and trained intervention fidelity monitors.

Results

Across 11 cohort offerings of MIM, each 8 weeks in length, there was a mean adherence rate of 0.9886, SD = 0.0012.

Conclusion

The fidelity monitoring system allowed for a reliable expansion of MIM offerings to HCPs and for a seamless pivot to fully virtual MIM delivery, necessitated by COVID-19.
“If She’s Sad, I’m Sad Too” Emotional Closeness Between French Grandparents and Emerging Adult Grandchildren
Authors: Duflos Mathilde , Giraudeau Caroline
Published: October 2021

The present study examines emotional closeness between French grandparents and their emerging adult grandchildren. The present study explores facets of the grandparent–grandchild relationship that have not been extensively investigated. It highlights the importance of the grandchildren’s relationship with their grandparents as they reach adulthood and the facets of intergenerational emotional closeness during this period of transition. Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 13 grandparents and their emerging adult grandchildren. Four themes were extracted from the thematic analysis of the interviews (emotional bonding; sharing identity, values, and personality; emotional worries and concerns about illness and death; adult role acquisition). The study reveals the depth of the grandparent-emerging adult–grandchild relationship, which is a source not only of love, support, and companionship in their daily life, but also of worries about the future. This study also identifies some hitherto unexplored facets that demonstrate the complexity of this relationship as grandchildren become adults.