bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the intention-behavior gap: The role of intention strength
Authors: Conner Mark , Norman Paul
Published: August 2022

This manuscript overviews recent research on the intention-behavior gap, focusing on moderators of the intention-behavior relationship. The manuscript draws on the concept of intention strength to make two important points. First, strong intentions provide better predictions of behavior, thereby reducing the intention-behavior gap. However, strong intentions have the additional features of being more stable over time, less pliable in the face of interventions to change them, and more likely to bias information processing about engaging in the behavior. These four features of intention strength are not independent. For example, stable intentions are likely to provide better predictions of behavior. Second, various predictors of strength (e.g., importance, certainty, extremity) may also constitute important, but little studied, moderators of the intention-behavior relationship. Moreover, the effects of these moderators of the intention-behavior relationship may be mediated through intention stability (and perhaps other features of intention strength). Future research on the intention-behavior gap would benefit from a more systematic consideration of a broad range of moderators of the intention-behavior relationship both individually and in combination. In addition, future research could usefully explore how these moderating effects might be explained. Such a systematic approach may further our understanding of the intention-behavior gap in relation to physical activity and other behaviors.
Wearing the face mask affects our social attention over space
Authors: Villani Caterina , D’Ascenzo Stefania , Scerrati Elisa , Ricciardelli Paola , Nicoletti Roberto , Lugli Luisa
Published: August 2022

Recent studies suggest that covering the face inhibits the recognition of identity and emotional expressions. However, it might also make the eyes more salient, since they are a reliable index to orient our social and spatial attention. This study investigates (1) whether the pervasive interaction with people with face masks fostered by the COVID-19 pandemic modulates the processing of spatial information essential to shift attention according to other’s eye-gaze direction (i.e., gaze-cueing effect: GCE), and (2) whether this potential modulation interacts with motor responses (i.e., Simon effect). Participants were presented with face cues orienting their gaze to a congruent or incongruent target letter location (gaze-cueing paradigm) while wearing a surgical mask (Mask), a patch (Control), or nothing (No-Mask). The task required to discriminate the identity of the lateralized target letters by pressing one of two lateralized response keys, in a corresponding or a non-corresponding position with respect to the target. Results showed that GCE was not modulated by the presence of the Mask, but it occurred in the No-Mask condition, confirming previous studies. Crucially, the GCE interacted with Simon effect in the Mask and Control conditions, though in different ways. While in the Mask condition the GCE emerged only when target and response positions corresponded (i.e., Simon-corresponding trials), in the Control condition it emerged only when they did not correspond (i.e., Simon-non-corresponding trials). These results indicate that people with face masks induce us to jointly orient our visual attention in the direction of the seen gaze (GCE) in those conditions resembling (or associated with) a general approaching behavior (Simon-corresponding trials). This is likely promoted by the fact that we tend to perceive wearing the mask as a personal safety measure and, thus, someone wearing the face mask is perceived as a trustworthy person. In contrast, people with a patch on their face can be perceived as more threatening, therefore inducing a GCE in those conditions associated with a general avoidance behavior (Simon-non-corresponding trials).
Development and validation of interactive creativity task platform
Authors: Wu Ching-Lin , Su Yu-Der , Chen Eason , Chen Pei-Zhen , Chang Yu-Lin , Chen Hsueh-Chih
Published: August 2022

Co-creativity focuses on how individuals produce innovative ideas together. As few studies have explored co-creativity using standardized tests, it is difficult to effectively assess the individual’s creativity performance within a group. Therefore, this study aims to develop a platform that allows two individuals to answer creativity tests simultaneously. This platform includes two divergent thinking tasks, the Straw Alternative Uses Test and Bottle Alternative Uses Test, and Chinese Radical Remote Associates Test A and B, which were used to evaluate their open-and closed-ended creative problem-solving performance. This platform has two modes: single-player mode and paired-player mode. Responses from 497 adults were collected, based on which the fluency, flexibility, and originality of divergent thinking were measured. This study also developed a computer scoring technique that can automatically calculate the scores on these creativity tests. The results showed that divergent thinking scores from computer-based calculation and manual scoring were highly positively correlated, suggesting that the scores on a divergent thinking task can be calculated through a system that avoids time-consuming, uneconomical manual scoring. Overall, the two types of tests on this platform showed considerable internal consistency reliability and criterion-related validity. This advanced application facilitates the collection of empirical evidence about co-creativity.
Duration of the effectiveness of nicotine electronic cigarettes on smoking cessation and reduction: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vanderkam Paul , Bonneau Audrey , Kinouani Shérazade , Dzeraviashka Palina , Castera Philippe , Besnier Marc , Binder Philippe , Doux Nicolas , Jaafari Nematollah , Lafay-Chebassier Claire
Published: August 2022

Background

The success of pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation in real-life remains limited, with a significant number of long-term relapses. Despite first promising results, the duration of the effectiveness of electronic cigarettes is still unknown. Our objective was to assess the duration of the effectiveness of electronic cigarettes on smoking cessation and reduction in daily smokers.

Methods

The databases EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ClinicalTrials.gov and PUBMED were consulted until March 23, 2022. We selected only randomized controlled trials with daily adult smokers. The intervention was the nicotinic electronic cigarette vs. non-nicotine electronic cigarette or other validated pharmacotherapies (varenicline, bupropion and nicotine replacement therapy). The minimum duration of the intervention was 3 months, with a follow-up of at least 6 months. Two independent reviewers used the PRISMA guidelines. The primary endpoint was smoking cessation at the end of the intervention and follow-up periods confirmed by a reduction in expired CO < 10 ppm. The reduction was defined as at least 50% of the initial consumption or by a decrease of daily mean cigarette consumption at the end of the intervention and follow-up periods.

Results

Abstinence at the end of the intervention and follow-up periods was significantly higher in the nicotine electronic cigarette group, compared to nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) [respectively: RR: 1.37 (CI 95%: 1.32–2.93) and RR: 1.49 (CI 95%: 1.14–1.95)] and to the non-nicotine electronic cigarette condition [respectively: RR: 1.97 (CI 95%: 1.18–2.68) and RR: 1.66 (CI 95%: 1.01–2.73)]. With regard to smoking reduction, the electronic cigarette with nicotine is significantly more effective than NRT at the end of the intervention and follow-up periods [respectively RR: 1.48 (CI 95%: 1.04–2.10) and RR: 1.47 (CI 95%: 1.18–1.82)] and non-nicotine electronic cigarette in the long term [RR: 1.31 (CI 95%: 1.02–1.68)].

Conclusions

This meta-analysis shows the duration of the effectiveness of the nicotine electronic cigarette vs. non-nicotine electronic cigarette and NRT on smoking cessation and reduction. There are still uncertainties about the risks of its long-term use and its potential role as a gateway into smoking, particularly among young people.
‘An experience of meaning’: A 20-year prospective analysis of delusional realities in schizophrenia and affective psychoses
Authors: Rosen Cherise , Harrow Martin , Humpston Clara , Tong Liping , Jobe Thomas H. , Harrow Helen
Published: August 2022

Delusions are transdiagnostic and heterogeneous phenomena with varying degrees of intensity, stability, and dimensional attributes where the boundaries between everyday beliefs and delusional beliefs can be experienced as clearly demarcated, fuzzy, or indistinguishable. This highlights the difficulty in defining delusional realities. All individuals in the current study were evaluated at index and at least one of six subsequential follow-ups over 20 years in the Chicago Longitudinal Study. We assessed 16 distinct delusions categorized as thought or thematic delusions. We also examined the probability of recurrence and the relationships between delusions and hallucinations, depression, anxiety, and negative symptoms. The sample consisted of 262 individuals with schizophrenia vs. affective psychosis. Thought delusions were significantly different between groups at all follow-up evaluations except the 20-year timepoint. Thematic delusions were more common than thought delusions and show a significant decreasing pattern. In general, delusional content varied over time. Referential, persecutory, and thought dissemination delusions show the highest probability of recurrence. Hallucinations were the strongest indicator for thought, thematic, and overall delusions. The formation and maintenance of delusions were conceptualized as a multimodal construct consisting of sensory, perceptual, emotional, social, and somatic embodiment of an “experience of meanings”. Given the significant associations between delusions and hallucinations, future work incorporating participatory research is needed to better define and align subjective and objective perspectives. Our research also points to the need for future clinical interventions that specifically evaluate and target the coexistence and entanglement of delusions and hallucinations.
Association between blood pressure control status, visit-to-visit blood pressure variability, and cognitive function in elderly Chinese: A nationwide study
Authors: Xu Luxinyi , Yang Ying , Cui Dan
Published: August 2022

Background

Cognitive function is a concern among the elderly, which is related to the quality of life, life expectancy, and economic burdens. The relationship between blood pressure (BP) control status, visit-to-visit BP variability, and cognitive function remains controversial.

Methods

We aimed to explore the association between BP control status at baseline, visit-to-visit BP variability, and cognitive function. This study included 3,511 elderlies in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, covering four waves for 7-year follow-up (baseline 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2018). BP was measured in Wave 2011, 2013, and 2015. Cognitive function was measured by Mini-Mental State Exam in Wave 2018. Participants were divided into two groups: mid-old group for reflecting midlife BP and cognition (45–59 years at baseline but aged 60 or over in Wave 2018), and old-old group for reflecting late-life BP and cognition (aged 60 or over at baseline). We use univariate analysis and general linear model to analyze.

Results

Late-life BP showed stronger associations with cognitive function than midlife BP. As to late-life BP control status, controlled hypertension group get higher cognitive score than uncontrolled hypertension group in language (adjusted β = −0.34, 95%CI −0.68 to 0.00), and untreated hypertension group in orientation (adjusted β = −0.41, 95%CI −0.72 to −0.11), language (adjusted β = −0.35, 95%CI −0.67 to −0.04), and total (adjusted β = −0.99, 95%CI −1.85 to −0.12). Regarding visit-to-visit BP variability, midlife visit-to-visit systolic blood pressure (SBP) variability was associated with language (adjusted β = −3.70, 95% CI −5.83 to −1.57), while late-life visit-to-visit SBP variability was associated with orientation (adjusted β = −2.99, 95% CI −4.84 to −1.14), recall (adjusted β = −1.69, 95% CI −2.89 to −0.48), language (adjusted β = −2.26, 95% CI −4.13 to −0.38), and total (adjusted β = −9.50, 95% CI −14.71 to −4.28); Midlife diastolic blood pressure (DBP) variability and pulse pressure (PP) variability showed a significant relationship with language (adjusted β = 3.25, 95% CI −1.31 to −5.19) and calculation (adjusted β = −0.26, 95% CI −0.47 to −0.04), respectively. No significant correlation was found between midlife BP control status, late-life visit-to-visit DBP variability, late-life visit-to-visit PP variability, and cognitive score. There was no significant correlation between BP and memory.

Conclusions

BP control status and visit-to-visit BP variability were significantly related to cognitive function among the Chinese elderly. Receiving effective late-life antihypertensive treatment and keeping SBP stable might contribute to prevent the development of cognitive impairment and dementia, especially for orientation and language function.
Sleep health and its related influencing factors in primary and middle school students in Fuzhou: A large multi-center cross-sectional study
Authors: Xu Xingyan , Zheng Fuhao , Cai Yingying , Lin Jie , Zeng Zhaonan , Wei Shichao , Wu Siying
Published: August 2022

Background

This current study set out to investigate the status of sleep health in 7–20-year-old students in Fuzhou and explore the related influencing factors of sleep health.

Methods

A total of 38,467 children and adolescents in Fuzhou were included in the study through a random stratified cluster sampling. Data were collected from May to June 2019, in 18 primary schools and 18 middle schools from nine districts, Fuzhou. Children's parents and adolescents of sampled classes were invited to fill out a series of questionnaires about the performance of the last 6 months (sociodemographic characteristics, sleep-related lifestyle behaviors, and electronic-products usage). Multiple linear regression was carried out to analyze data.

Results

Of the total 40,888 questionnaires we released, 38,467 were valid and effective with the response rate was 94.08%. The age of the surveyed participants was 11.85 ± 3.1, including 20,013 boys and 18,454 girls. The multiple linear regression analysis identified factors associated with sleep health (p < 0.05): Boy (coef = 0.073, 95% CI: 0.030–0.115), age (coef = 1.797, 95% CI: 0.224–0.243), key school (coef = 2.069, 95% CI: 0.105–0.193), urban (coef = 0.096, 95% CI: 0.054–0.139), excessive daytime sleepiness (coef = 0.535, 95% CI: 0.432–0.639), unhealthy sleep habits (coef = 0.363, 95% CI: 0.307–0.419), eating before sleep (coef = 0.578, 95% CI: 0.527–0.630), using electronic products in bedroom (coef = 0.074, 95% CI: 0.028–0.121), screen time per day during school (coef = 0.260, 95% CI: 0.235–0.284), frequency of using electronics 30 min before bedtime (coef = 0.150, 95% CI: 0.134–0.166), strained relationship with parents (coef = 0.361, 95% CI: 0.270–0.452), strained relationship with peers (coef = 0.267, 95% CI: 0.171–0.363), excessive homework or learning (coef = 0.189, 95% CI: 0.141–0.237), time for doing homework (coef = 0.266, 95% CI: 0.245–0.287), and mood swings frequently (coef = 1.174, 95% CI: 1.127–1.221) negatively impact sleep health. Sleep alone (coef = −0.204, 95% CI: −0.262–0.147) were the risk factors for sleep health. Furthermore, frequent mood swings was considered the most influential factor on overall variables.

Conclusions

Sleep health is associated with factors covered sociodemographic characteristics, family sleep habits, and routine activities before bedtime. Multiple measures should be taken to improve sleep quality in a targeted manner.
Burden of infectious diseases among undocumented migrants in France: Results of the Premiers Pas survey
Authors: Vignier Nicolas , Moussaoui Sohela , Marsaudon Antoine , Wittwer Jérome , Jusot Florence , Dourgnon Paul
Published: August 2022

Introduction

An increase in migration rates to the European Union has been observed over the last few years. Part of these migrants is undocumented. This work aimed to describe the reported frequency of infectious diseases and their associated factors among unselected samples of undocumented migrants in France.

Methodology

The Premier Pas survey is a cross-sectional epidemiological survey of a random sample (two-stage sample design) conducted among undocumented migrants recruited in Paris and the Bordeaux region, in places and facilities likely to be frequented by undocumented migrants. The percentages were weighted. The analysis was performed using Stata 15.1 software.

Results

A total of 1,223 undocumented migrants were recruited from 63 places and facilities, with a participation rate of 50%. Most of them were between 30 and 40 years of age (36%), 69% were men, aged mainly 30–40 (36%) years old, from sub-Saharan Africa (60%) or North Africa (25%), and 60% had arrived <3 years earlier. Among the participants, 24.8% declared a poor perceived health status and 33.5% a chronic health condition. Dental infections concerned 43.2% of the participants. Apart from dental issues, 12.9% reported suffering from at least one infectious disease: HIV infection (3.5%), chronic hepatitis B virus infection (3.1%), upper respiratory tract infection (1.7%), skin mycosis (1.2%), skin and soft tissue infection (0.8%), chronic hepatitis C infection (0.8%), urinary tract infection (0.7%), lower respiratory tract infection (0.7%), scabies (0.3%), tuberculosis disease (0.2%), vaginal mycosis (0.6%), and herpes (0.1%). Regarding HIV, HBV, and HCV infections, 56, 71, and 89%, respectively, were diagnosed after their arrival. Chronic viral infections were more often reported by undocumented migrants from sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. In multivariate analysis, a higher risk of reporting chronic viral infection was observed among people food insecure.

Conclusion

This original study on a large random sample confirms the frequency of infectious diseases among undocumented migrants in France and the importance of integrating their screening during a health Rendezvous and their management into early access to care and inclusive medico-psycho-social management.
Knowledge about, attitude toward, and practice of complementary and alternative medicine among nursing students: A systematic review of cross-sectional studies
Authors: Zhao Fei-Yi , Kennedy Gerard A. , Cleary Sonja , Conduit Russell , Zhang Wen-Jing , Fu Qiang-Qiang , Zheng Zhen
Published: August 2022

Background

The globally growing demand for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has attracted educators' attention to integrate CAM into conventional nursing programs. This systematic review aimed to understand the status quo of nursing students (NSs)' overall rated knowledge of, attitude/belief toward, and practice/previous use or experience (KAP) of CAM in surveys, given these factors may influence NSs' receptivity to CAM curricula, and may be of value in guiding the development of effective teaching strategies.

Methods

Formally published cross-sectional quantitative studies investigating the primary outcome of KAP toward CAM by NSs were searched for from eight databases from their inception through to 28 April 2022. PRISMA 2020 guidelines were followed.

Results

Twenty-six studies were included for analysis, 25 of which were judged to be of moderate to high quality. Despite limited and poorly informed knowledge of CAM therapies, the majority of NSs generally viewed them in a positive light. Furthermore, NSs usually reported an interest in further learning, and supported and welcomed the integration of CAM curricula, at least as elective modules, into existing nursing programs. Lack of evidence was perceived as a major barrier to the use or integration of CAM. Mass media and the internet were the main sources via which NSs access CAM information. Measurement of KAP in all included studies was via self-designed questionnaires/scales or adapted from previously developed questionnaires/scales.

Conclusions

The need for integrating and strengthening CAM curricula into current nursing education is identified. Besides theoretical knowledge and matched clinical placement, skills training in literature searching and evidence-based practice are advised to be included in the curricula design. The experiential learning mode is strongly recommended for delivering specific CAM modalities. In addition, a standard instrumentation for determining NSs' KAP toward CAM should be designed and examined for use in different cultural settings.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=300602, identifier: PROSPERO CRD42022300602.
Attachment anxiety and smartphone addiction among university students during confinement: Teacher–student relationships, student–student relationships and school connectedness as mediators
Authors: Zhang Wen , Zhou Fangzhou , Zhang Qingyu , Lyu Zhixuan
Published: August 2022

Learning at home during the COVID-19 confinement might affect students' relationships with their peers, teachers, and schools and increase the possibility of smartphone addiction. We hypothesized that attachment anxiety directly and indirectly affects smartphone addiction, with teacher–student relationships, student–student relationships, and school connectedness as mediators. The participants were 999 university students from different regions of China. The results showed that six of the paths were significant except the one between student–student relationships and smartphone addiction. Also, the association between attachment anxiety and smartphone addiction was mediated by teacher–student relationships and school connectedness not but student–student relationships. The current study highlights the mediating effect of school connectedness and teacher–student relationships in the multiple mediation model, and suggests that universities can alleviate the risk of smartphone addiction in distance teaching by cultivating good teacher–student relationships and strengthening students' sense of belonging to their schools.
Deconstruction of physical fitness assessment system and medical rehabilitation countermeasures for physically disabled teenagers with natural language processing technology
Authors: Wang Dan , Sun Pu
Published: August 2022

Disability is a component of social relations and the existence of social reality. An effective solution to the problem of persons with disabilities is a measure of human civilization and social progress. The strength of the implementation of disability policy is the key to the realization of the original intention of “effectively solving the problem of disabled persons and promoting their development”. The purpose of this paper is to study the physical fitness evaluation system and medical rehabilitation strategies of physically handicapped adolescents with natural language processing technology. It mainly adopts literature research, interview and comparative analysis. Taking the rehabilitation policy for the disabled as the research starting point, the current situation of mental health of physically disabled adolescents will be examined, and the influence of physical exercise attitude and exercise level on mental health will be explored. And by comparing the difference in physical exercise level and mental health of physically handicapped youth and able-bodied youth, the effect of physical exercise on mental health of physically handicapped youth is further explained. This paper selects a total of 760 physically disabled students and able-bodied students from a secondary school as subjects, and uses research methods such as questionnaire survey and computer test to investigate the current situation of mental health of physically disabled adolescents and the relationship between physical exercise and mental health. The experimental results show that the spatiotemporal judgment experiment uses pixel difference as an indicator, and the judgment error of limb residual limbs is significantly larger than that of healthy limbs (p < 0.01). In the span of spatial location memory, the grades of the limb-restrained students were significantly lower than that of the able-bodied students (p < 0.05).
Participatory co-creation of an adapted physical activity program for adults with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Quilico Enrico , Wilkinson Shawn , Duncan Lindsay , Sweet Shane , Bédard Evelyne , Trudel Eric , Colantonio Angela , Swaine Bonnie
Published: August 2022

Background

Research about using physical activity (PA) to improve health, quality of life, and participation after moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is receiving growing attention. However, best-practices for maintaining PA participation after TBI have yet to be defined. In this context, a team of researchers and stakeholders with a moderate-to-severe TBI (including program participants and peer mentors) participated in a co-creation process to optimize a 9-month, 3-phased, community-based, adapted PA program named TBI-Health.

Purpose

The study aimed to provide a detailed account of the participation in and co-creation of a new TBI-Health Program to enhance sport and exercise participation for adults with moderate-to-severe TBI. Specifically, we carried out an in-depth exploration of the perceived experiences and outcomes of users over one cycle of the program to assist the co-creation process.

Methods

An interpretive case study approach was used to explore the experiences and outcomes of the participatory co-creation within and across phases of the TBI-Health program. A purposeful sample of fourteen adults with moderate-to-severe TBI (program participants n = 10; peer mentors n = 4) were involved in audio-recorded focus groups after each program phase. Reflexive thematic analyses within and across the phases identified three higher-order themes.

Results

Program Participation included barriers, facilitators, sources of motivation and suggested modifications to optimize the program; Biopsychosocial Changes highlighted perceived physical, psychological, and social outcomes, by self and others, that resulted from program participation; PA Autonomy emphasized transitions in knowledge, sex- and gender-related beliefs, and abilities related to exercise and sport participation.

Conclusions

Study findings suggest the TBI-Health program can increase autonomy for and reduce barriers to PA for adults with moderate-to-severe TBI, which results in increased PA participation and important physical, psychological, and social benefits. More research is needed about the TBI-Health program with larger samples.
Academic health science networks' experiences with rapid implementation practice during the COVID-19 pandemic in England
Authors: Ziemann Alexandra , Sibley Andrew , Scarbrough Harry , Tuvey Sam , Robens Sarah
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic offered a “natural laboratory” to learn about rapid implementation of health and social care innovations in an altered implementation context. Our aim was to explore implementation practice of Academic Health Science Networks (AHSN) in the English National Health System during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic through a rapid implementation lens. We organized three 90-min, online, semi-structured focus groups with 26 operational and senior managerial staff from 14 AHSNs in June-July 2020. Participants were recruited purposefully and on a voluntary basis. Participants presented a case study about their approaches to implementing innovations between March-June 2020 and discussed their experiences and lessons learned. The focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts and other documents were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis following a combination of grounded theory and framework analysis approach. AHSNs increased the pace of their implementation work to support the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The disruptive event changed the implementation context which enabled rapid implementation through an urgency for change, the need to adhere to social distancing rules, new enabling governance structures, and stakeholders' reduced risk averseness toward change. AHSNs achieved rapid implementation through: (1) An agile and adaptive implementation approach; (2) Accelerating existing innovations and building on existing relationships/networks; (3) Remote stakeholder engagement; and (4) Ensuring quality, safety, rigor and sustainability, and generating new evidence through rapid evaluations. AHSNs aimed at sustaining implementation pace and efficiency after the acute phase of the pandemic mainly through remote stakeholder engagement and flexibility of implementation strategies.
Use of virtual reality in oncology: From the state of the art to an integrative model
Authors: Buche Hélène , Michel Aude , Blanc Nathalie
Published: August 2022

Over the past 20 years, virtual reality (VR) has been the subject of growing interest in oncology. More and more researchers are studying the effects of virtual environments to contribute to current thinking on technologies likely to support patients undergoing oncological treatment. Recent research highlights how VR can divert attention while reducing anxiety in stressful healthcare situations through its multisensory and participative nature. VR appears to be a promising tool capable of reducing cancer-related anxiety symptoms, improving treatment adherence, and increasing satisfaction with oncology care. While the literature reports these positive effects in the therapeutic management of cancer, few studies have focused on theoretical models capable of explaining the psychological benefits of virtual immersion. This literature review provides a theoretical framework combining results from all relevant empirical work in oncology. The review can help researchers identify the optimal conditions for using VR in oncology and bridge the gap between divergent devices, modalities, and practices (e.g., headmounted displays, environments, interactivity, immersion time).
Bioremediation techniques as affected by limiting factors in soil environment
Authors: Alori Elizabeth Temitope , Gabasawa Alhasan Idris , Elenwo Chinyere Edna , Agbeyegbe Oluwadolapo Ololade
Published: August 2022

Soils are polluted by both organic and inorganic substances. Plants growing in polluted soils suffer damages such as leaf rolls, chlorosis, growth inhibition, root tips browning, and death of plant. Soil pollutants such as hydrocarbon and heavy metals are absorbed by crops and such ends up being consumed by human posing health risk like cancer and respiratory abnormally. Conventional methods of remediation such as chemical and physical methods are very expensive and not sustainable. Excavation, which is a type of physical method, merely shifts the pollutant from one site to another. Bioremediation is a biological method of reclaiming polluted soils. Bioremediation is less expensive and more sustainable and safer when compared to the conventional methods of reclamation of polluted environment. This biological method of remediation is an extremely attractive, important, and productive alternative for cleaning, debugging, managing, and rehabilitating and consequently ameliorating contaminated environmentsviajudicious utilization of microbial activities. The rate, at which the waste substances are degraded, is usually dictated by competitiveness among biological agents, sub-optimal supply of essential nutrients, unconducive abiotic conditions (in forms of temperature, aeration, pH, and moisture), and constrained pollutant’s bioavailability. Bioremediation is often effective only under conducive environmental conditions favorable for microbial growth and development. It has been successfully used at various parts of the world. Based on the significance of bioremediation in enhancing the reclamation of polluted environments by decontaminating and degrading heavy metals and xenobiotics, more focused researches would be needed so as to improve contaminated environments in much safer ways and conditions through bioremediation techniques. This research discussed the various types and methods of bioremediation. The mechanisms of actions and strategies of microorganisms in bioremediation were well expatiated. The interaction between bioremediators and the mineral particles in the soil environment was explained.
A review of gender in agricultural and pastoral livelihoods based on selected countries in west and east Africa
Authors: Vincent Katharine
Published: August 2022

This scoping paper presents the results of a review of the landscape of research on gender and agricultural and pastoral livelihoods in select countries in west and east Africa (Burkina Faso, Chad, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, and Uganda) published over 5 years (January 2016–March 2021). A keyword search of the Scopus database gave rise to an ultimate dataset of 169 papers which were coded for geographical location, approaches to gender, and theme based on inductive identification of clusters of research. There has been an increase in the number of published papers but there is an uneven geographical distribution of research. Studies vary in the way they treat gender: with an almost even split between modeling-based studies, where gender is one of many variables to be correlated with, or to determine, an outcome (e.g., poverty—for example, as a dummy variable in regressions); and studies where the expressed aim is to look at gender differences, whether through the gender of an individual or the gender of a household head. Clusters of papers look at gender differences in assets, health, perceptions of environmental degradation, agricultural perceptions and outcomes, and climate change perceptions, vulnerability, and adaptation. There is also a number of papers exploring women's empowerment, including intra-household decision making. Intersectional approaches have been employed both through modeling studies and through more in-depth qualitative studies that are able to trace changes in identity over time, and the implications therein. The household and household headship have remained common entry points and units of analysis, despite known critiques. The results highlight a need to address geographical gaps in gender research, expand the evidence base of intersectional approaches, explore other aspects of social inequality, and expand more innovative methodological studies.
Ultrasound-guided HIFU for uterine fibroids of hyperintense on T2-weighted MR imaging with or without GnRH-analogue-pretreated: A propensity score matched cohort study
Authors: Jiang Li , Yu Jing-Wen , Yang Mei-Jie , Zhong Qiao , Chen Jin-Yun
Published: August 2022

Objective

To compare the therapeutic effect of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation and HIFU pretreated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRH-a) in the treatment of hyperintense uterine fibroids on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (T2WI) by using propensity score matching.

Materials and methods

339 women with 368 hyperintense uterine fibroids on T2WI who underwent single-session HIFU ablation were enrolled, including 283 patients with 303 fibroids in the single-session HIFU (sHIFU) group and 56 patients with 65 fibroids in the HIFU pretreated with GnRH-a (Gn-HIFU) group. The signal intensity (SI) value and standard deviation (SD) value were measured based on T2WI, and the fibroids were further subdivided into heterogeneous hyperintense fibroids, slightly homogeneous hyperintense fibroids and markedly homogeneous hyperintense fibroids as 3 subgroups (HHF, sHHF and mHHF group respectively). Treatment time, sonication time, dose, non-perfused volume (NPV), NPV per sonication time, non-perfused volume ratio (NPVR), energy effect ratio (EEF) and adverse events were recorded.

Results

Out of 339 patients, the median NPVR was 75.2% (interquartile range,31.5%). After propensity score matching, the matched cohort included 91 (64.5%) patients in the sHIFU group and 48 (34.5%) patients in the Gn-HIFU group. The NPVR of sHHF in the Gn-HIFU group had significantly smaller than that in the sHIFU group (60.2% versus 74.9%,p = 0.005), and the NPVR of HHF in the Gn-HIFU group was higher than those in the sHIFU group (87.4% versus 72.9%,p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Compared with HIFU alone, the therapeutic efficacy of the heterogeneous hyperintense fibroids may be enhanced by GnRH-a pretreated with HIFU, however it is important to rule out the slightly homogeneous hyperintense fibroids.
Development of a new TaqMan-based real-time RT-PCR assay for the specific detection of bovine kobuvirus
Authors: Liu Yuelin , Liu Libing , Wang Jinfeng , Wang Ting , Gao Yaxin , Sun Xiaoxia , Yuan Wanzhe , Li Ruiwen , Wang Jianchang
Published: August 2022

Bovine kobuvirus (BKV) is a novel kobuvirus considered to be closely related to calf diarrhea and has become a worldwide epidemic. Currently, the BKV lacks an efficient and convenient detection method to assist the research on BKV prevalence. In this study, a new and specific TaqMan-based real-time RT-PCR for the detection of BKV was developed using the conserved region of the 3D gene. The assay was highly specific for BKV, without cross-amplification with other non-targeted pathogens. The limit of detection of this assay was 102 copies. Standard curves showed a strong linear correlation from 102 to 106 copies of BKV standard RNA per reaction, and the parameters revealed as a slope of −3.54, efficiency of 91.64%, and regression coefficients (R2) of 0.998. The assay was also reproducible, with the intra-assay and inter-assay coefficient of variation <1.0%. The newly developed real-time RT-PCR was validated using 243 fecal samples collected from diarrheic or non-diarrheic cattle from nine regions in Hebei province and revealed the positive detection of BKV at a ratio of 19.34% (47/243). Sequencing of partial 3D genes from 13 positive samples and the following phylogenetic analysis demonstrated the reliability of the assay. In conclusion, the newly developed TaqMan-based real-time RT-PCR could be used for the screening and epidemic monitoring of BKV.
Neonatal infrared thermography images in the hypothermic ruminant model: Anatomical-morphological-physiological aspects and mechanisms for thermoregulation
Authors: Mota-Rojas Daniel , Wang Dehua , Titto Cristiane Gonçalves , Martínez-Burnes Julio , Villanueva-García Dina , Lezama Karina , Domínguez Adriana , Hernández-Avalos Ismael , Mora-Medina Patricia , Verduzco Antonio , Olmos-Hernández Adriana , Casas Alejandro , Rodríguez Daniela , José Nancy , Rios Jennifer , Pelagalli Alessandra
Published: August 2022

Hypothermia is one factor associated with mortality in newborn ruminants due to the drastic temperature change upon exposure to the extrauterine environment in the first hours after birth. Ruminants are precocial whose mechanisms for generating heat or preventing heat loss involve genetic characteristics, the degree of neurodevelopment at birth and environmental aspects. These elements combine to form a more efficient mechanism than those found in altricial species. Although the degree of neurodevelopment is an important advantage for these species, their greater mobility helps them to search for the udder and consume colostrum after birth. However, anatomical differences such as the distribution of adipose tissue or the presence of type II muscle fibers could lead to the understanding that these species use their energy resources more efficiently for heat production. The introduction of unconventional ruminant species, such as the water buffalo, has led to rethinking other characteristics like the skin thickness or the coat type that could intervene in the thermoregulation capacity of the newborn. Implementing tools to analyze species-specific characteristics that help prevent a critical decline in temperature is deemed a fundamental strategy for avoiding the adverse effects of a compromised thermoregulatory function. Although thermography is a non-invasive method to assess superficial temperature in several non-human animal species, in newborn ruminants there is limited information about its application, making it necessary to discuss the usefulness of this tool. This review aims to analyze the effects of hypothermia in newborn ruminants, their thermoregulation mechanisms that compensate for this condition, and the application of infrared thermography (IRT) to identify cases with hypothermia.
Virus-host protein-protein interactions as molecular drug targets for arboviral infections
Authors: Bhutkar Mandar , Singh Vishakha , Dhaka Preeti , Tomar Shailly
Published: August 2022

Arboviruses have the potential to spread quickly and cause a global health emergency. These are RNA viruses that use RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) for their replication. RdRp lacks proofreading activity, leading to high error rates, low replicative fidelity, and more genetic variability. In addition, shorter generation time and faster evolutionary rate of these viruses lead to re-emergence and recurrence of arboviral infections due to the emergence of new variants and the development of antiviral resistance. During the replication inside the host cell through protein-protein interactions (PPIs), these viruses interact with several host factors and utilize the host cellular machinery for their benefit. Besides this, viruses employ several transmission strategies to combat host innate and adaptive immune responses by manipulating the signaling and metabolic pathways of the hosts. Hence, antiviral therapies targeting host-virus PPIs can provide an alternative broad-spectrum strategy against RNA viruses. The approach of targeting virus-specific proteins for developing antivirals is expected to solve the problem of antiviral drug resistance and combat emerging new variants of these viruses. This review focuses on host-virus PPIs of arboviral infections that directly affect the host immune signaling and metabolic pathways. Better understanding of these mechanisms will develop new therapeutic tools to treat viral infections.
Achieving Full Forward Flow of Valveless Piezoelectric Micropump Used for Micro Analysis System
Authors: Li Kai , Zhou Xianxin , Zheng Haoyuan , Liu Biao , Chen Shuo , Chen Weishan , Liu Junkao
Published: August 2022

The valveless piezoelectric micropump has the advantages of simple structure, high precision and low cost, which can realize the directional transport of micro-fluid and wildly be applied in a micro analysis system. However, backflow at the outlet cannot be avoided due to the limitation of its working mechanism. Large reflux rate can increase the volume control accuracy per cycle, but reduces the stability of the micro analysis system. In order to achieve a full forward flow, which reduce the influence of backflow on the system’s stability, the reflux characteristics of the designed valveless piezoelectric micropump were studied. The condition proposed, which should be satisfied for obtaining full forward flow, is that the reflux rate should be less than 50%. The influence of relations between the size of the key structures and pumping characteristics are established, and the references for structural parameter selection to reduce backflow and achieve full forward flow are given. This paper highlights the methods of controlling the pumping performance and achieving full forward flow, based on structural parameter selection analysis and adjusting excitation. The reflux rate can be reduced to 5% when the inlet angle is increased to 9°. The experimental results verify the validity of the obtained results and the proposed methods of control. This work provides important references for applying valveless piezoelectric micropumps in micro analysis and precision-driven systems.
Numerical Study of the Ratio of Depth-to-Print Diameter on the Performance and Flow Characteristics for a Dimpled, Highly Loaded Compressor Cascade
Authors: Wang Long , Lu Huawei , Tian Zhitao , Yang Yi , Guo Shuang , Wang Hong , Kong Xiaozhi
Published: August 2022

The influence of the ratio of dimple depth-to-print diameter (λ) on the highly loaded compressor cascade NACA0065-K48 is investigated based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) method. Simulations are conducted with a validated shear-stress transportation (SST) turbulence model coupled with the Gamma-Theta (γ−Reθ) transition model at the inlet Mach number of 0.7. At 5~25% of the axial chord on the suction surface, four rows of dimples are arranged in parallel, and the dimples’ spacing is 4 mm. Moreover, there are five kinds of λ, ranging from 0.125 to 0.875, which determine the pressed arc of a spherical dimple. Three flow regimes (diffuser–confuser flow, tornado-like vortex and horseshoe vortex) with the same topological structure are observed in these dimples, which affect the flow and performance of the cascade by changing the energy distribution. The distribution of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) reflects the disturbance of the tornado-like vortex in the inferior arc dimples (λ=0.375) intensely, whereas the disturbance of the horseshoe vortex in superior arc dimples (λ=0.625, 0.875) is relatively weak. Numerical results indicate that the loss of the corner separation can be reduced with a dimples array, which is mainly related to the vertical climbing of the lateral flow that delays the starting point of the corner separation and weakens the mixing process. However, the loss in the wake of the dimpled cascades increases, which is caused by the thickened boundary layer induced by the high turbulent vortices. The dimpled cascade with λ=0.625 can achieve the most significant loss reduction (13.47%), while ensuring the pressurization capacity.
Design of Novel Laser Crosslink Systems Using Nanosatellites in Formation Flying: The VISION
Authors: Kim Geuk-Nam , Park Sang-Young , Seong Sehyun , Choi Jae-Young , Han Sang-Kook , Kim Young-Eon , Choi Suyong , Lee Joohee , Lee Sungmoon , Ryu Han-Gyeol , Kim Seonghui
Published: August 2022

With growth in data volume from space missions, interest in laser communications has increased, owing to their importance for high-speed data transfer in the commercial and defense fields, spaceborne remote sensing, and surveillance. Here, we propose a novel system for space-to-space laser communication, a very high-speed inter-satellite link system using an infrared optical terminal and nanosatellite (VISION), which is aimed at establishing and validating miniaturized laser crosslink systems and several space technologies using two 6U nanosatellites in formation flying. An optical link budget analysis is conducted to derive the signal-to-noise ratio requirements and allocate the system budget; the optical link margin should be greater than 10 dB to guarantee communication with practical limitations. The payload is a laser transceiver with a deployable space telescope to enhance the gain of the beam transmission and reception. Nanosatellites, including precise formation flying GNC systems, are designed and analyzed. The attitude control system ensures pointing and tracking errors within tens of arcsec, and they are equipped with a propulsion system that can change the inter-satellite distance rapidly and accurately. This novel concept of laser crosslink systems is expected to make a significant contribution to the future design and construction of high-speed space-to-space networks.