bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can use of pictograms reduce liquid medication administration errors by mothers? An interventional study
Authors: Patidar Pawan , Mathur Aditya , Pathak Ashish
Published: June 2021

Background

Liquid medication dosing errors (LMDE) made by caregivers affect treatment in children, but this is not a well-studied topic in many low-and middle-income countries including in India.

Methods

An intervention study was conducted among mothers attending a pediatric outpatient clinic of a tertiary care setting in Ujjain, India. The mothers randomly measured 12 volumes of a paracetamol liquid preparation by using a dropper (0.5 and 1 mL), measuring cup (2.5 and 5 mL), and calibrated spoon (2.5 and 5 mL) each with two instructions—oral-only measurement session (OMS) and oral plus pictogram measurement session (OPMS, the intervention). The main outcome was dosing error prevalence. The effectiveness of the intervention was assessed by measuring effect size. Risk factors for maximum LMDE were explored using backward multivariate logistic regression models. A P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In total, 310 mothers [mean (± SD) age, 30.2 (± 4.18) years] were included. LMDE prevalence in the OMS versus OPMS for dropper 0.5 mL was 60% versus 48%; for l mL dropper was 63% versus 54%; for 2.5 mL cup 62% versus 54%; for 2.5 calibrated spoon 66% versus 59%; 5 mL cup 69% versus 57%; and 5 mL calibrated spoon 68% versus 55%. Comparing OMS with OPMS, underdosing was minimum with the calibrated spoon for 2.5 mL (OR 4.39) and maximum with the dropper for 1 mL (OR 9.40), and overdosing was minimum with the dropper for 0.5 mL (OR 7.12) and maximum with the calibrated spoon for 2.5 mL (OR 13.24). The effect size (dCohen) of the intervention OPMS was 1.86–6.4. Risk factors for the most prevalent dosing error, that is, with the calibrated spoon for 2.5 mL, were increasing age of the mother (aOR 1.08; P = 0.026) and nuclear family (aOR 2.83; P = 0.002). The risk of dosing errors decreased with higher education of the mothers.

Conclusions

Pictograms can effectively minimize LMDE even in less educated mothers.
Correction to: Design considerations of an IL13Rα2 antibody–drug conjugate for difuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Authors: Lian Xiaolei , Kats Dina , Rasmussen Samuel , Martin Leah R. , Karki Anju , Keller Charles , Berlow Noah E.
Published: June 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Influence of femoral tunnel exit on the 3D graft bending angle in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Hodel Sandro , Mania Sylvano , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Fürnstahl Philipp , Fucentese Sandro F.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To quantify the influence of the femoral tunnel exit (FTE) on the graft bending angle (GBA) and GBA-excursion throughout a full range of motion (ROM) in single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

Methods

Three-dimensional (3D) surface models of five healthy knees were generated from a weight-bearing CT obtained throughout a full ROM (0, 30, 60, 90, 120°) and femoral and tibial ACL insertions were computed. The FTE was simulated for 16 predefined positions, referenced to the Blumensaat's line, for each patient throughout a full ROM (0, 30, 60, 90, 120°) resulting in a total of 400 simulations. 3D GBA was calculated between the 3D directional vector of the ACL and the femoral tunnel, while the intra-articular ACL insertions remained unchanged. For each simulation the 3D GBA, GBA-excursion, tunnel length and posterior tunnel blow-out were analysed.

Results

Overall, mean GBA decreased with increasing knee flexion for each FTE (p < 0.001). A more distal location of the FTE along the Blumensaat's line resulted in an increase of GBA and GBA-excursion of 8.5 ± 0.6° and 17.6 ± 1.1° /cm respectively (p < 0.001), while a more anterior location resulted in a change of GBA and GBA-excursion of -2.3 ± 0.6° /cm (+ 0.6 ± 0.4°/ cm from 0–60° flexion) and 9.8 ± 1.1 /cm respectively (p < 0.001).

Mean tunnel length was 38.5 ± 5.2 mm (range 29.6–50.5). Posterior tunnel blow-out did not occur for any FTE.

Conclusion

Aiming for a more proximal and posterior FTE, with respect to Blumensaat’s line, reliably reduces GBA and GBA-excursion, while preserving adequate tunnel length. This might aid to reduce excessive graft stress at the femoral tunnel aperture, decrease femoral tunnel widening and promote graft-healing.

Level of Evidence

IV
Preliminary experience of an international orthopaedic registry: the ESSKA Paediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Initiative (PAMI) registry
Authors: Mouton Caroline , Moksnes Håvard , Janssen Rob , Fink Christian , Zaffagnini Stefano , Monllau Juan Carlos , Ekås Guri , Engebretsen Lars , Seil Romain
Published: June 2021

Paediatric and adolescent ACL injuries are an emerging health burden, increasing at a higher rate than in adults. They compromise quality of life, affect knee structure and function, lead to the early development of osteoarthritis and are a serious economic burden due to shortened professional careers and subsequent surgeries. Up to 35% of children and adolescents will experience a second ACL injury and this population particularly at high risk of secondary intraarticular soft tissue degeneration and growth abnormalities. However, there is still a lack of high-quality outcome studies on this specific population and many knowledge gaps persist in the current treatment guidelines. It is currently unknown whether ACL reconstruction in this young population decreases the risk of irreversible secondary intraarticular soft tissue degeneration. Furthermore, it is not known whether return to high or elite level sports after paediatric ACL injury or reconstruction should be recommended. The relatively low number of paediatric ACL injuries seen in each hospital makes it necessary to conduct international multi-centre studies to collect robust data to provide evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of these injuries. The Paediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Initiative (PAMI) was thus started by the European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery & Arthroscopy and opened for patient inclusion in 2018. This comprehensive overview of the first 2 years of the PAMI registry shows that the project is now well consolidated and accepted by the European orthopaedic community. Future challenges include ensuring additional external funding to ascertain long term sustainability and continuous dissemination of the knowledge acquired in scientific journals.
Preservice science teachers’ emerging pedagogy of mobile game integration: a tale of two cohorts improvement study
Authors: Pondee Phattaraporn , Panjaburee Patcharin , Srisawasdi Niwat
Published: June 2021

In the context of the current teacher education program in Thailand, Technology Pedagogical and Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework is formally recognized as essential qualities of knowledge for a highly qualified preservice teacher in today’s education. TPACK has been attracted to educational researchers for preparing preservice science teachers nationwide. In this study, TPACK was employed for restructuring a preservice science teacher education course with mobile game technology, which was offered in two consecutive semesters with a total enrollment of 115 student teachers in the first cohort and 94 student teachers in the second cohort. A pedagogic module of Mobile Game-based Inquiry Learning in Science (MGILS) has been designed and created in two settings, a usual separated and integrated case-based TPACK support module, and then implemented with the first and second cohort respectively in general science teacher education program at a Rajabhat University of Thailand. They were measured TPACK in terms of four constructs, namely, (a) technological knowledge (TK), (b) technological content knowledge (TCK), (c) technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK), and (d) technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK). Considering both qualitative and quantitative data analysis from two cohorts, the results showed preservice science teachers’ incremental TPACK improvement from the implementation of the usual separated and integrated case-based TPACK support module of MGILS. Based on the results of MGILS intervention, it seems to indicate the alleged superiority of the integrated case-based TPACK support over the usual separated TPACK support. The deficits in the use of MGILS module are identified, and possible improvements to enhance TPACK in the mobile game are proposed.
Analysis of determinants of work performance for seafarers based on fuzzy Electre model
Authors: Massami Erick P. , Manyasi Malima M.
Published: June 2021

Nowadays, most shipping companies are aware of the importance of analysing seafarers’ work performance. Thus, improving seafarers’ work performance or finding out the ways by which seafarers’ work performance can be enhanced is becoming one of the decisive factors for the success of any shipping company. Any organization aims to have employees who can accomplish corporate goals and objectives using available resources efficiently and effectively. Manpower performance can be enhanced by putting more emphasis on factors that can stimulate employees’ motivational level, creativity and job satisfaction. In this study, we use literature review and experts’ opinions to identify determinants of workplace performance for seafarers working with Marine Services Company Limited (MSCL), a shipping company owned by the government of Tanzania. The data is collected from a random sample of 30 seafarers working for the MSCL and a Fuzzy Electre Model (FEM) is developed and applied to determine the significance of the factors and sub-factors for the work performance of seafarers. The fuzzy terms are adopted in order to integrate the uncertainty of subjective judgment when evaluating alternatives. The computational results validate the effectiveness of the developed evaluation model. This study is resourceful for the top management of MSCL, as it points out those factors that can directly affect the performance of her seafarers. Seafarers are important assets of any shipping company and thus, this study helps shipping enterprises devise efficient human resource strategies to get maximum benefit from this kind of assets. More importantly, enhanced seafarers’ work performance leads to improved company’s productivity and higher service quality and therefore make the shipping company competitive in the trading markets.
A brief review of non-invasive brain imaging technologies and the near-infrared optical bioimaging
Authors: Kim Beomsue , Kim Hongmin , Kim Songhui , Hwang Young-ran
Published: June 2021

Brain disorders seriously affect life quality. Therefore, non-invasive neuroimaging has received attention to monitoring and early diagnosing neural disorders to prevent their progress to a severe level. This short review briefly describes the current MRI and PET/CT techniques developed for non-invasive neuroimaging and the future direction of optical imaging techniques to achieve higher resolution and specificity using the second near-infrared (NIR-II) region of wavelength with organic molecules.
Late presentation of unilateral lung agenesis in adulthood
Authors: Parry Arshed Hussain , Raheem Mujahed Abdulsattar Ibrahim , Ismail Hussam Hassan , Sharaf Osama
Published: June 2021

Background

Pulmonary agenesis is a rare congenital anomaly with a reported prevalence of about 1 in 100,000 births. It may be bilateral or unilateral. Among the unilateral form, left lung agenesis is more common (70%); however, it is the right lung agenesis which carries a dismal prognosis due to the frequent association with a gamut of other congenital anomalies and greater degree of mediastinal shift leading to tracheo-bronchial and vascular distortion. The patients of unilateral pulmonary agenesis usually present in infancy or early childhood. Presentation in late adulthood as seen in our patient is rare. We present a case of left pulmonary agenesis that was diagnosed in 4th decade of life.

Case presentation

A 36-year-old male presented with gradually progressive exertional dyspnea of 1 month duration. Clinical examination revealed tachycardia and tachypnea. Chest radiograph showed opaque left hemithorax with ipsilateral mediastinal shift. Computed tomography clinched the diagnosis by demonstrating absence of left main bronchus, lung and left pulmonary artery with shift of heart, and great mediastinal vessels into left hemithorax. The patient was managed conservatively and discharged with attachment to out-patient department for regular follow-up.

Conclusion

Presentation of unilateral lung agenesis in late adulthood, as seen in the present case is extremely rare. This case report highlights that, a rare condition like unilateral pulmonary agenesis, should be considered in the list of differentials in an adult presenting with opaque hemithorax with ipsilateral mediastinal shift on radiography.
A new model of regular black hole in (2+1) dimensions
Authors: Estrada Milko , Tello-Ortiz Francisco
Published: June 2021

We provide a new regular black hole solution in

dimensions with the presence of matter fields in the energy momentum tensor. The inclusion of our proposed energy density plus a negative cosmological constant allows that the solution can have both flat as de Sitter or Anti-de Sitter core. This latter is a proper characteristic of our solution, because other models of regular black holes have only a single type of core. Since the first law of thermodynamics for regular black holes is modified by the presence of the matter fields, we provide a new version of the first law, where a local definition of the variation of energy is defined, and where the entropy and temperature are consistent with the ones previously known in the literature. At the hypothetical limit when the horizon radius

the usual first law

is recovered. The effectiveness of the formalism used to compute the mass of our regular black holes in

dimensions suggests the potential applicability of this method to calculate the mass of other models of regular black holes in

dimensions.
Postoperative Thyroid Storm After Evacuation of a Complete Hydatidiform Mole: A Case Report
Authors: Hodgson John A. , Pittman Benjamin P. , Solomon James B. , Elrefai Ahmed , Kristobak Benjamin M.
Published: June 2021

Gestational trophoblastic disease can lead to excess thyroid hormone release and rarely, thyroid storm. We present a case of complete molar pregnancy with hyperthyroidism that was not identified or treated before surgical evacuation of uterine contents. Untreated hyperthyroidism preoperatively led to unanticipated thyroid storm immediately after emergence from anesthesia. It is important for anesthesia providers to recognize the link between gestational trophoblastic disease and thyrotoxicosis, and appreciate the severe consequences than can occur if left untreated. Anesthesia providers should strongly consider preoperative consultation and treatment. Being prepared to treat intraoperative symptoms and thyroid storm is paramount.
Letter-Poems to Shauki Masi
Authors: Khan Sasha A.
Published: June 2021

An extension of an ongoing haunted queer diasporic kinship practice, this piece consists of letter-poems written to the author’s ancestor, Shauki Masi, who passed away several years ago. In this way, the author offers queer Muslim meditations on the five pillars of Islam: salat (ritual of daily prayer), zakat (alms), sawm (ramzaan), hajj (pilgrimage), and shahadah (declaration of faith). The five pillars of Islam offer a praxis through which Muslims can (re)balance their relationships, communities, and therefore the world.
Cubam receptor-mediated endocytosis in hindgut-derived pseudoplacenta of a viviparous teleost Xenotoca eiseni
Authors: Iida Atsuo , Sano Kaori , Inokuchi Mayu , Nomura Jumpei , Suzuki Takayuki , Kuriki Mao , Sogabe Maina , Susaki Daichi , Tonosaki Kaoru , Kinoshita Tetsu , Hondo Eiichi
Published: June 2021

Nutrient transfer from mother to the embryo is essential for reproduction in viviparous animals. In the viviparous teleost Xenotoca eiseni belonging to the family Goodeidae, the intraovarian embryo intakes the maternal component secreted into the ovarian fluid via the trophotaenia. Our previous study reported that the epithelial layer cells of the trophotaenia incorporate a maternal protein via vesicle trafficking. However, the molecules responsible for the absorption were still elusive. Here, we focused on Cubam (Cubilin-Amnionless) as a receptor involved in the absorption, and cathepsin L as a functional protease in the vesicles. Our results indicated that the Cubam receptor is distributed in the apical surface of the trophotaenia epithelium and then is taken into the intracellular vesicles. The trophotaenia possesses acidic organelles in epithelial layer cells and cathepsin L-dependent proteolysis activity. This evidence does not conflict with our hypothesis that receptor-mediated endocytosis and proteolysis play roles in maternal macromolecule absorption via the trohotaenia in viviparous teleosts. Such nutrient absorption involving endocytosis is not a specific trait in viviparous fish. Similar processes have been reported in the larval stage of oviparous fish or the suckling stage of viviparous mammals. Our findings suggest that the viviparous teleost acquired trophotaenia-based viviparity from a modification of the intestinal absorption system common in vertebrates. This is a fundamental study to understand the strategic variation of the reproductive system in vertebrates.
Development of Functional Materials via Polymer Encapsulation into Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Hosono Nobuhiko , Uemura Takashi
Published: June 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) composed of metal ions and organic ligands have been extensively studied over the last few decades owing to their versatile porous structures with controllable sizes and designable surface functionalities. The encapsulation of polymer chains into MOF pores is a powerful strategy for the preparation of functional materials. The nanochannels of MOFs disrupt the natural coiling of polymer chains and constrain them in extended conformations, facilitating the study of the properties of single polymer chains. The formation of nanocomposites between MOFs and polymers can provide unprecedented material platforms to accomplish several nanoscale functions. Furthermore, the use of regulated nanochannels in MOFs for polymer encapsulation allows the discrimination of the marginal structural differences in individual polymer chains, providing the separation of polymers from complex mixtures.
Clustering of non-leukemia childhood cancer in Colombia: a nationwide study
Authors: Manrique-Hernández Edgar F. , Rojas Díaz Marcela Pilar , Rodriguez-Villamizar Laura Andrea
Published: June 2021

Background: Childhood cancer is considered one the most important causes of death in children and adolescents, despite having a low incidence in this population. Spatial analysis has been previously used for the study of childhood cancer to study the geographical distribution of leukemias. This study aimed to identify the presence of space-time clusters of childhood of cancer excluding leukemia in Colombia between 2014 and 2017.

Methods: All incident cancer cases (excluding leukemia) in children under the age of 15 years that had been confirmed by the National Surveillance System of Childhood Cancer between 2014 and 2017 were included. Kulldorf’s circular scan test was used to identify clusters using the municipality of residence as the spatial unit of analysis and the year of diagnosis as the temporal unit of analysis. A sensitivity analysis was conducted with different upper limit parameters for the at-risk population in the clusters.

Results: A total of 2006 cases of non-leukemia childhood cancer were analyzed, distributed in 432 out of 1,122 municipalities with a mean annual incidence rate of 44 cases per million children under the age of 15. Central nervous system (CNS) tumors were the most frequent type. Two space-time clusters were identified in the central and southwest regions of the country. In the analysis for CNS tumors, a spatial cluster was identified in the central region of the country. 

Conclusions: The distribution of non-leukemia childhood cancer seems to have a clustered distribution in some Colombian regions that may suggest infectious or environmental factors associated with its incidence although heterogeneity in access to diagnosis cannot be discarded.
Medication adherence in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients during Covid-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study from the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Asheq Ameena , Ashames Akram , Al-Tabakha Moawia , Hassan Nageeb , Jairoun Ammar
Published: June 2021

Background: Patients with chronic diseases often experience difficulty adhering to recommended treatments as instructed by their healthcare professionals. Recently, diabetes has been associated with the severity of the novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19), which raises the importance of improving medication adherence for diabetic patients to enhance the right use of antidiabetics amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Methods: This work assesses medication adherence among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and identifies the set of key demographic and health factors significantly associated with medication adherence. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on an appropriate sample of type 2 diabetic patients in the UAE, with 180 patients of both genders and various social levels. A validated version of the eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) was used for data collection.

Results:  The average MMAS score was 4.88, with 95% confidence intervals (CI) 4.6 and 5.2. 61.67% (n=111), 28.89% (n=52), and 9.44% (n=17) of patients were categorized into low, medium, and high adherent groups, respectively. These findings indicate that a high level of non-compliance to antidiabetic regimens among the population in the UAE.

Conclusions: Patients demonstrated low level of compliance to antidiabetic regimens. Therefore, they must receive up-to-date knowledge about the disease and the treatment and enable easy access to their health care providers to enhance medication adherence.
Home hazard assessment and environmental modification to prevent falls in older people: the OTIS trial
Authors: Cockayne Sarah , Pighills Alison , Fairhurst Caroline , Adamson Joy , Crossland Shelley , Drummond Avril , Hewitt Catherine , Rodgers Sara , Ronaldson Sarah , McCaffery Jenny , Whiteside Katie , Scantlebury Arabella , Robinson-Smith Lyn , Cochrane Ann , Lamb Sarah E , Boyes Sophie , Gilbody Simon , Relton Clare , Torgerson David ,   The OTIS study
Published: June 2021

Background: Falls in older people are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. There is some evidence to suggest that home hazard assessment and environmental modification delivered by an occupational therapist may reduce falls. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention, relative to usual care.

Methods: A pragmatic, two-arm modified cohort randomised controlled trial in eight NHS trusts in primary and secondary care in England. In total, 1331 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and over with a history of falls or fear of falling were randomised in a 2:1 allocation to either usual care plus a falls prevention leaflet (n=901) or to receive the home hazard assessment and environmental modification intervention, plus usual care and a falls prevention leaflet (n=430). The primary outcome was the number of falls per participant over the 12 months from randomisation. Secondary outcomes included: proportion of fallers and multiple fallers, time to fall, and fear of falling.

Results: All 1331 randomised participants (mean age 80 years, 872 [65.5%] female) were included in the primary analysis. There was a small increase in the rate of falls in the intervention group relative to usual care (adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.17, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.38; p=0.07). A similar proportion of participants in the intervention (57.0%) and usual care group (56.2%) reported at least one fall over 12 months. There were no differences in any of the other secondary outcomes and no serious, related adverse events were reported. 

Conclusions: Home hazard assessment and environmental modification delivered by an occupational therapist did not reduce falls in community-dwelling older people deemed at higher risk of falling recruited to this trial.
Prevalence and patterns of tobacco and/or nicotine product use in Japan (2017) after the launch of a heated tobacco product (IQOS®): a cross-sectional study
Authors: Afolalu Esther F. , Langer Peter , Fischer Karina , Roulet Steve , Magnani Pierpaolo
Published: June 2021

Background: Several smoke-free tobacco and/or nicotine-containing products (TNP) have emerged in recent years to support tobacco harm reduction strategies and reduce individual health risks and population harm relative to continued cigarette smoking. This paper describes the nationwide prevalence and patterns of TNP use in Japan following the commercialization of one such smoke-free TNP, the heated tobacco product IQOS® (Philip Morris International).  

Methods: We analyzed the first annual data (2016–2017) of two repeated cross-sectional surveys conducted in a representative sample of the Japanese general adult population (N = 4,878) and a sample of adult IQOS users (N = 2,000). We assessed the prevalence of current TNP use according to type of product (cigarettes, IQOS, e-cigarettes, and other TNPs) in the general population and patterns of TNP use in the IQOS user sample.

Results: The prevalence of current use across all TNP in the general adult population was 18.5% (95% confidence interval 17.2–19.5%), with 17.5% (16.4–18.6%) for cigarette smoking and 1.8% (1.4–2.2%) for IQOS use. With regard to the distribution of patterns of use in the IQOS user survey, the majority (63.4% [61.2–65.6%]) were exclusive users of IQOS, followed by 20.6% (18.7–22.5%) of individuals who reported dual use of IQOS and cigarettes.

Conclusions: In Japan, cigarette smoking remains the most prevalent way of consuming TNP; however, IQOS is being adopted by a growing number of adult Japanese smokers. These findings serve as baseline data for monitoring trends over time in the use and adoption of potential smoke-free TNP in Japan.
Cohort study on educational well-being of children of Chinese origin adopted into transracial and international families in the Spanish education system
Authors: Doncel-Abad David , Cabrera-Álvarez Pablo
Published: June 2021

The following dataset focuses on the educational well-being of adopted girls of Chinese origin in Spanish schools. Due to its characteristics, the presence of this group may generate complex interaction dynamics in school; particularly regarding bullying in school linked to factors such as the acceptance of others. These are dynamics, which may indeed condition the educational experience of this social group. Therefore, the aim of creating this dataset is to measure the educational well-being of children of Chinese origin adopted into transracial families in Spain. Although this research was justified by the lack of studies on this social group, we aimed to go one-step further, we also studied the correlation between this social group’s educational experience, and to what extent they show an interest in Chinese culture. As we have written before, we incorporated the concept of Well-Being and we worked with the following indicators: Satisfaction with Life, Social Life, and Bullying in School, Racial Bullying, Personal Identity and Interest in Chinese Culture. To achieve the objective set forth, we conducted a questionnaire. The final sample consisted of 268 individuals. The creation of this dataset provided us with information that can shed light on the relationship between adoption, race/ethnicity and the educational experience of adopted children of Chinese origin.
Analysing antecedence of an intelligent voice assistant use intention and behaviour
Authors: Tanribilir Rusen N
Published: June 2021

Background: As the use of intelligent voice assistant applications becomes more prevalent, a growing body of studies are examining individuals' interactions with intelligent voice assistants. However, very limited research has focused on comparing the antecedents of both use and non-use behaviour of individuals, based on the technology acceptance models. To fill this gap, the present study investigated antecedents of intelligent voice assistance use and use intention in a cross-sectional setting. Additionally, to go one step beyond the existing literature on technology acceptance models and theories, a new construct termed perceived needs, as well as the moderating role of perceived privacy concerns and perceived awareness, are introduced.

Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was utilised using a nonprobability sampling strategy through the online networking platforms. Total of 277 (n = 155 users vs n = 122 non-users) international adults age between 20-74 years (79.6% female, 20.4 %  male) contributed to the study. Ordinary least squares (OLS) linear regression and Bivariate logistic regression analyses for non-users and users were conducted, respectively.

Results: Both analyses revealed that peer influence and perceived needs related to the intention to use intelligent voice assistants for non-users, which applied to the current intelligent voice assistance users where privacy concerns were considered. Surprisingly, the key determinants of technology acceptance and use theories, such as perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, did not hold for intelligent voice assistance usage.

Conclusion: The current research contributed to the field by validating new constructs of perceived needs and the moderation role of perceived privacy concerns. However, in order to build on an existing body of knowledge, future studies should further examine the moderation role of perceived privacy concerns, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness in the same domain.
Qualitative analysis of first-person accounts of noetic experiences
Authors: Wahbeh Helané , Fry Nina , Speirn Paolo , Hrnjic Lutvija , Ancel Emma , Niebauer Erica
Published: June 2021

The term “noetic” comes from the Greek word noēsis/noētikos that means inner wisdom, direct knowing, intuition, or implicit understanding. Strong cultural taboos exist about sharing these experiences. Thus, many may not feel comfortable transparently discussing or researching these topics, despite growing evidence that these experiences may be real. The study’s objective was to qualitatively evaluate first-hand accounts of noetic experiences. 521 English-speaking adults from around the world completed an online survey that collected demographic data and four open-ended questions about noetic experiences. Thematic analysis was used to characterize the data. The ten most used codes were expressing to or sharing with others, impacting decision-making, intuition/”just knowing,” meditation/hypnosis, inner visions, setting intentions/getting into the “state,” healing others, writing for self, and inner voice. There were five main themes identified: 1. Ways of Engagement; 2. Ways of Knowing; 3. Types of Information; 4. Ways of Affecting; and 5. Ways of Expressing. Subthemes. Future research will include investigating the nuances of these themes and also establishing standardized methods for evaluating them. This would also then inform curricula and therapies to support people in these experiences.
Discrimination of the SARS–CoV-2 strains using of coloured s-LASCA-imaging of GB-speckles, developed for the gene “S” nucleotide sequences
Authors: Ulianova Onega , Saltykov Yury , Ulyanov Sergey , Zaytsev Sergey , Ulyanov Alexander , Feodorova Valentina
Published: June 2021

Background: A recent bioinformatics technique involves changing nucleotide sequences into 2D speckles. This technique produces speckles called GB-speckles (Gene Based speckles). All classical strategies of speckle-optics, namely speckle-interferometry, subtraction of speckle-images as well as speckle-correlometry have been inferred for processing of GB-speckles. This indicates the considerable improvement in the present tools of bioinformatics.  

Methods: Colour s-LASCA imaging of virtual laser GB-speckles, a new method of high discrimination and typing of pathogenic viruses, has been developed. This method has been adapted to the detecting of natural mutations in nucleotide sequences, related to the spike glycoprotein (coding the gene «S») of SARS–CoV-2 gene as the molecular target.   

Results: The rate of the colouring images of virtual laser GB-speckles generated by s-LASCA can be described by the specific value of R. If the nucleotide sequences compared utilizing this approach the relevant images are completely identical, then the three components of the resulting colour image will be identical, and therefore the value of R will be equal to zero. However, if there are at least minimal differences in the matched nucleotide sequences, then the value of R will be positive.   

Conclusion: The high effectiveness of an application of the colour images of GB-speckles that were generated by s-LASCA- has been demonstrated for discrimination between different variants of the SARS–CoV-2 spike glycoprotein gene.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy ameliorates the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome by inhibiting MMP-9 activity: a randomized controlled trial in Indonesia
Authors: Oley Maximillian Christian , Oley Mendy Hatibie , Prasetyo Eko , Kepel Billy Johnson , Setiawan Mardoni , Islam Andi Asadul , Hatta Mochammad , Aling Deanette Michelle , Tulong Marcella Tirza , Faruk Muhammad
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Post-concussion syndrome is common in young adults and can greatly interfere with the quality of daily life. It has a wide range of symptoms that require prompt and well-targeted treatment to avoid further brain impairment. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a promising regenerative treatment option for these patients to help prevent the progression of post-concussion syndrome. This study aims to determine whether HBOT accelerates the healing process and reduces symptoms in patients with post-concussion syndrome. 

Methods: 20 patients with post-concussion syndrome participated in this randomized controlled trial study. After receiving standard mild traumatic brain injury treatment in accordance with the Advanced Trauma Life Support guidelines, the patients were divided into HBOT and control groups. Matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9) levels and Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) scores were used to compare the two groups (before HBOT & after 1st, 3rd, and 5th week). 

Results: The study sample was predominantly male (65%) with an average age of 60 years old. HBOT reduced serum MMP-9 levels by nearly 20 ng/mL (p < 0.001) compared with the control treatment. The efficacy of HBOT was also reflected in the RPQ scores, which were significantly lower in the HBOT group than the control group (before HBOT & after 1st, 3rd, 5th week) (-3.80 on RPQ-3, p = p<0.001; -16.20 on RPQ-13, p = p<0.001). 

Conclusion: HBOT ameliorated the symptoms associated with post-concussion syndrome through a mechanism that involves MMP-9 activity. The accelerated recovery observed in the present study supports the use of HBOT to treat post-concussion syndrome and potentially other forms of traumatic brain injury.
Risk and protective factors of relapse in patients with first-episode schizophrenia from perspectives of health professionals: a qualitative study in northeastern Thailand
Authors: Intharit Jarunee , Kittiwattanagul Khanogwan , Chaveepojnkamjorn Wisit , Tudpor Kukiat
Published: June 2021

Background:  Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that can relapse after treatments. Risk and protective factors for relapse are dependent on multicultural contexts.

Objective: To identify risk and protective factors related to relapse in first-episode schizophrenia (FES) in northeastern Thailand from perspectives of health professionals.

Methods: This qualitative research collected data from 21 health professional staff members (psychiatric nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists and nutritionist) of a tertiary psychiatric hospital of northeastern Thailand who had been involved in mental health care for schizophrenia for at least 5 years by in-depth interviews and group interview using semi-structured interview schedule. Content analyses was used to identify staff perception of factors that put patients at risk of relapse.

Results: Data analyses demonstrated that factors related to relapse in FES patients were drug adherence (drug discontinuation, limited access to new generation drugs, self-dose reduction and skipping medication, and poor insight), family factors (stressful circumstances and family supports), substance abuses (narcotics, addictive substances, caffeinated drinks), concurrent medical illness (insomnia, thyroid diseases, and pregnancy-related hormonal changes), and natural course of disease. 

Conclusion: Factors affecting relapse in FES was not only drug adherence. Family factors, drug abuses, and concurrent health status should be also taken into account. A comprehensive mental health care program should be developed for FES patients in the region.
Incidencia de las políticas de cooperación Sur-Sur sobre la orientación de la internacionalización universitaria en Argentina 2007-2015
Authors: Oregioni María Soledad
Published: June 2021

A principios del xxi se observa la confluencia de dos fenómenos distintos, pero di­rectamente vinculados, en la orientación de la política de internacionalización de las universidades argentinas. Por un lado, el avance del proceso de internacionalización de la Educación Superior en América Latina y, por otro, el giro de la política regio­nal basada en priorizar los lazos de cooperación Sur-Sur (css). El artículo describe y analiza cómo las políticas de css en ciencia, tecnología y universidad inciden en el proceso de internacionalización universitaria. Con base en las políticas de css impul­sadas por el Estado Nacional, en el periodo 2007-2015, a través de la Secretaría de Políticas Universitarias del Ministerio de Educación; el Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación Productiva; y el Fondo Argentino de Cooperación Sur-Sur y Triangular (foar), dependiente de la Dirección de Relaciones Internacionales del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores, Comercio Internacional y Culto. Esto da lugar a discutir la relación agencia-estructura, en relación al proceso de internacio­nalización universitaria.
Eventcoin: Criptomoeda para Gamificação de Eventos
Authors: Werner Alexandre Pereira , Bertolini Cristiano , Silveira Sidnei Renato , Da Silva Joel
Published: June 2021

Blockchains funcionam como um banco de dados distribuído em uma rede peer-to-peer, onde cada usuário tem uma cópia atualizada de todo o histórico de transações realizadas. A utilização de um sistema baseado em blockchain garante confiabilidade, sem precisar de um mecanismo centralizador ou regulador. Nesse contexto, este artigo apresenta uma aplicação baseada em blockchains, combinando com o conceito de gamificação, para proporcionar uma nova maneira de validar, armazenar e distribuir certificados de eventos, tais como workshops, conferências e minicursos.
Improving the Selection of Requirements Elicitation Techniques: A Faceted Guide
Authors: Ignácio Rafael Crispim , Benitti Fabiane Barreto Vavassori
Published: June 2021

Na Engenharia de Requisitos existe uma diversidade de técnicas que podem ser usadas para elicitar os requisitos. No cenário atual, não foram encontradas fontes onde essas técnicas são devidamente organizadas, facilitando o entendimento na identificação de suas características, bem como auxiliar na busca por técnicas para um determinado contexto. Este artigo descreve o desenvolvimento de um guia que organiza e categoriza as técnicas de elicitação de requisitos para suporte na identificação das técnicas apropriadas para o cenário de determinado projeto. Através de um mapeamento sistemático, 96 técnicas foram organizadas compondo o guia apresentado neste artigo. Por meio de uma avaliação com 30 participantes, nós podemos evidenciar a efetividade do guia em sugerir técnicas de elicitação, bem como o seu fácil uso.
Development and validation of a pocket guide for the prevention of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Lucoveis Maria do Livramento Saraiva , Rolim Luiz Clemente de Souza Pereira , Pedrosa Hermelinda Cordeiro , Roberto de Sá João , Armstrong David G , Boccara de Paula Maria Angela , Gamba Mônica Antar
Published: June 2021

Objective:

Diabetic foot ulcers can have serious consequences, including amputation. This project aimed to develop and validate a diabetes care management model—a pocket guide on the prevention of foot ulceration to assist health professionals and scientific societies.

Methods:

An adaptation of the Iowa method of evidence-based practice to promote high-quality care was employed. After problems are identified, the Iowa method supports the development of an action plan for addressing them. An evidence-based protocol based on the five cornerstones of the 2015 guidance on the diabetic foot by the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot was developed in two phases and validated using the Delphi technique.

Results:

A model was developed to promote these five cornerstones, which are the main recommendations for managing the diabetic foot. These are: foot examination; risk assessment for ulceration; education in diabetes; appropriate footwear; and treatment of pre-ulcerative lesions. To adapt this into a health information document, the management model was synthesised and designed as a pocket guide. The model's individual and global content validity indices surpass 0.78 and 0.90 respectively.

Conclusion:

A management model was created and validated, and produced as a pocket guide to deliver instructions on the care and prevention of diabetic foot problems in people with diabetes.
Hope in palliative care nursing: concept analysis
Authors: Guedes Ana , Carvalho Matilde Silva , Laranjeira Carlos , Querido Ana , Charepe Zaida
Published: June 2021

Background:

Hope has long been considered essential to humans in several disciplines, nursing included. At the end-of-life, hope is a complex and dynamic emotion, and there have been different interpretations and conceptions of hope.

Aim:

To develop hope in palliative care as an evidenced-based nursing concept: analyse its attributes, antecedents and consequences.

Method:

This study follows Walker and Avant's concept analysis: (a) select a concept; (b) determine the aims or purposes of analysis; (c) identify as many uses of the concept as possible; (d) determine the defining attributes; (e) identify a model case; (f) identify borderline and contrary cases; (g) identify antecedents and consequences; and finally (h) define the empirical referents.

Findings:

Antecedents included symptom control, existential suffering, interpersonal relationships and the establishment of realistic goals. The synthetic attributes were a positive outcome expectancy and a process oriented towards the present and future. The concept's consequences were quality of life, survival, acceptance and a peaceful death.

Conclusion:

This study revealed a strong history of publications on the subject. The analysis of attributes, antecedents and consequences of the concept of hope contributed to understanding its relevance to palliative care nursing and provided suggestions for effective interventions and future research.
Palliative care competencies and education needs of nurses and healthcare assistants involved in the provision of supportive palliative care
Authors: White Lynn , Agbana Sharon , Connolly Michael , Larkin Philip , Guerin Suzanne
Published: June 2021

Background:

This paper investigates the palliative care competencies (knowledge, behaviours, attitudes) and education needs of nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) who provide supportive (Level 2) palliative care.

Methods:

A mixed-methods study using a sequential exploratory design was used, with findings integrated across sources. Qualitative focus groups were conducted in 2018 with a sample of staff (n=11, all female; nurses=4; HCAs=7) providing supportive palliative care in a single service setting. A quantitative survey, also conducted in 2018, explored the issue with a wider sample within the same setting (n=36; nurses=18; HCAs=18; female=32).

Results:

Qualitatively, communication was highlighted as an important domain of the competence framework, with many participants acknowledging that the ability to communicate effectively is essential. Quantitatively, participants scored in the lower range for competency variables. A significant difference was observed between HCAs and nurses on measures of knowledge (t= -2.718; df=30; p<.05) and behaviour (t=-3.576; df=30; p<.05), with HCAs scoring significantly higher than nurses. In relation to education, while some participants report being indecisive regarding engaging in education/training, others highlighted the benefit of education, especially its ability to impact on their current practice.

Conclusion:

This research contributes to understanding palliative care competencies among nurses and HCAs working in palliative care, and has important implications for the education and training of nurses and HCAs working in Level 2 palliative care in Ireland.
Motherhood as a School Psychological Counselor during Coronavirus Disease Outbreak
Authors: Yaman Neslihan , Arici-Ozcan Neslihan
Published: June 2021

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which affected the whole world and caused millions to be locked at their homes, brought many difficulties in domestic life. Especially, women are the leading group that has been affected the most negatively due to the workload during the days staying at home and experiencing the constraints of traditional roles. In this study, in which descriptive phenomenology analysis was used, the aim was to reveal how mothers working as psychological counselors in schools experienced motherhood during the days staying at home during the epidemic, and how their professional skills reflected on their role as mothers. In this study, in which the criterion sampling was used, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 mothers who are school psychological counselors and could not continue their work since schools shut down during the pandemic. The data were analyzed by Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method. Analysis results revealed six main themes that define the experiences of the participants: adaptation to the new order, parenting codes, introspection during the pandemic, distribution of parenting roles, professional reflections in motherhood, and complex motherhood experiences. It is believed that the results obtained from this study conducted with psychological counselor mothers will contribute to parenting practices and to the content of in service trainings for school psychological counselors.
Eighth Grade Students’ Misconceptions and Errors in Mathematics Learning in Nepal
Authors: Kshetree Mukunda Prakash , Acharya Bed Raj , Khanal Bishnu , Panthi Ram Krishna , Belbase Shashidhar
Published: June 2021

This paper explores misconceptions and errors (M/Es) of eighth-grade students in Nepal with a quasi-experimental design with nonequivalent control and experimental groups. The treatment was implemented with teaching episodes based on different remedial strategies of addressing students' M/Es. Students of control groups were taught under conventional teaching-learning method, whereas experimental groups were treated with a guided method to treat with misconceptions and errors. The effectiveness of treatment was tested at the end of the intervention. The results showed that the new guided treatment approach was found to be significant to address students' M/Es. Consequently, the students of experimental groups made significant progress in dealing with M/Es in mathematical problem-solving at conceptual, procedural, and application levels.