bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mHealth Apps Use and Their Associations With Healthcare Decision-Making and Health Communication Among Informal Caregivers: Evidence From the National Cancer Institute’s Health Information National Trends Survey
Authors: Mahmood Asos , Kim Hyunmin , Chang Cyril F. , Kedia Satish , Arshad Hassan , Dillon Patrick J.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The current study investigates associations between mHealth apps and healthcare decision-making and health communication among informal caregivers in the US.

Design

Cross-sectional study employing secondary data.

Setting

The Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS5, Cycles 2 through 4, 2018 – 2020).

Sample

Self-identified informal caregivers (n = 1386; had mHealth apps = 61.3%, female = 63.2%, some college or more in education = 80.3%) who reported owning at least a smartphone or a tablet computer (i.e., ownership of a “smart device”).

Measures

Sociodemographic characteristics, reports of having mHealth apps, smart device utilization in healthcare decision-making and health communication.

Analysis

Accounting for the complex design features of the HINTS data, we constructed multiple hierarchical logistic regressions to compute adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Compared to caregivers without mHealth apps, those with the apps had higher odds of utilizing their smart devices to make a health-related decision, such as how to treat a disease or a medical condition (aOR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.13-2.39, P < .01), or engage in health-related discussions with a healthcare provider (aOR = 2.36; 95% CI: 1.54-3.61, P < .001).

Conclusion

Having mHealth apps was associated with a higher likelihood of using smart devices in healthcare decision-making and health communication by informal caregivers. Empowering caregivers to make informed health-related decisions and communicate effectively with healthcare providers are both crucial to health promotion and well-being. Future studies should investigate facilitators as well as barriers to using mHealth apps and smart devices in health-promoting strategies involving informal caregivers.
Have the pilot carbon markets achieved synergistic control of carbon abatement and pollution reduction? The quasi-experimental evidence from China
Authors: Yang Tiantian , Yi Lan , Li Jing , Liang Qingquan
Published: September 2023

The Chinese government has emphasized the necessity of synergistic control for carbon abatement and pollution reduction in the protection of eco-environment, as part of the 14th Five-Year Plan and the Long-range Objectives Through the Year 2035. As an important tool to reduce CO2, the carbon market can also affect the air pollution synergistically. The study utilizes the multi-period difference-in-difference (DID) model to analyze the impact of carbon market on carbon abatement, as well as the synergistic effect on different air pollutants. The study analyzes the mechanisms for carbon market to achieve synergistic control from the perspectives of “quantity” and “category” comprehensively. The findings indicate that: (1) carbon markets can reduce CO2 significantly, with a synergistic effect mainly observed on SO2 and soot (dust). These results remain robust when focusing on the industrial sector or adopting the PSM-DID estimation, etc.; (2) the mechanisms to achieve synergistic control vary among different air pollutants. Promotion of technology can only synergistically reduce SO2. Optimization of energy consumption structure is the top priority for reducing CO2. The most effective mechanism to achieve synergistic control of air pollutants is improvement of energy utilization efficiency; (3) to achieve synergistic control goals, the Chinese national market should prioritize industries that release both CO2 and NOx in the rolling-out plan, enrich the trading tools, and formulate effective price signals.
Presentation and outcome of pediatric lupus nephritis from a large single centre contemporary cohort in Eastern India
Authors: Biswas Debopoma , Dasgupta Deblina , Pal Priyankar , Sinha Rajiv
Published: September 2023

Background

We present clinical, biochemical, and histopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes of biopsy proven childhood lupus nephritis (LN) from a low/middle income setting treated in the current era of increased use of Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) and biologics.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of children (1–18 years) with biopsy proven LN treated from 01.01.2010 to 31.01.2020.

Results

60 children met our inclusion criteria (80%, n = 48 were females). The median age at diagnosis was 11 (IQR: 9–12) years. The most common extra-renal manifestation was mucocutaneous ( n = 54, 90%) and the most common kidney manifestation was edema ( n = 50, 83.3%). The median 24-h urinary protein excretion was 1117.8 (IQR: 795.4–1941.7) mg/m2/day with 67% ( n = 40) having nephrotic range proteinuria (>1000 mg/m2/day). 75% ( n = 45) children had eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (median eGFR = 71; IQR: 56–90 mL/min/1.73 m2). Anti-Nuclear Antibody was positive in all, both complement three and four were low in 82% ( n = 49) and anti-double stranded DNA antibodies were positive in 63% ( n = 38). 85% ( n = 51) had proliferative LN with majority being class IV (57%, n = 34). All children received steroids for induction therapy. MMF was given as the sole induction agent in 48% ( n = 29) and cyclophosphamide in 27% ( n = 16). Rituximab was added in 17% ( n = 10) as a rescue agent. Median follow up duration was 50 (IQR: 28–82) months. Six children (10%) died as a result of serious infections and none of them had shown complete response (CR). Out of the 52 children who had a follow up duration of at least 2 years, CR was achieved in 46 children (88%) and partial response (PR) or no response (NR) in three children (6%) each. Although children who were in CR/PR at last follow up had lower proteinuria, higher eGFR, and lower histopathology activity index at onset; low numbers in the NR group precluded us from subjecting them to any statistical correlation tests. 36% ( n = 22) of children developed 36 episodes of renal flares with overall incidence of 0.14/person-year.

Conclusion

Our study on a contemporary cohort of childhood LN highlights the importance of achieving CR and its feasibility.
Trauma-informed Care and its Significance in Responding to Child Sexual Abuse in India
Authors: Augustus Prathibha , Pandey Smita
Published: September 2023

Child sexual abuse is a detrimental experience that could cause deleterious mental-health outcomes in the survivor. Decades of research have revealed the complex nature of child sexual abuse in terms of its characteristics, dynamics, causes, and consequences. Efficacious psychological interventions for managing child sexual abuse-related outcomes in children exist. However, it is now well recognized that interventions alone are not enough for recovery from sexual or any other type of trauma; it requires an entire human service system that is well-informed about trauma and its effects. Given the lack of awareness about the consequences of child sexual abuse and the stigmatization that exists in the Indian context, which significantly contributes toward the evolution and severity of trauma outcomes in victimized children, this paper is an attempt to discuss the relevance of adopting a trauma-informed approach while responding to child sexual abuse.
Oxytetracycline-resistant Paenibacillus larvae identified in commercial beekeeping operations in Saskatchewan using pooled honey sampling
Authors: Obshta Oleksii , Zabrodski Michael W. , Soomro Tayab , Wilson Geoff , Masood Fatima , Thebeau Jenna , Silva Marina C. B. , Biganski Sarah , Kozii Ivanna V. , Koziy Roman V. , Raza M. Fahim , Jose Midhun S. , Simko Elemir , Wood Sarah C.
Published: September 2023

American foulbrood (AFB) is an infectious disease of honey bee brood caused by the endospore-forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae. P. larvae spores are resilient in the environment, thus colonies with clinical signs of AFB are often destroyed by burning to eradicate the causative agent. To prevent outbreaks of AFB, oxytetracycline metaphylaxis is widely used in North America, resulting in sustained selective pressure for oxytetracycline resistance in P. larvae. To determine if antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is present among P. larvae isolates from commercial beekeeping operations in Saskatchewan, Canada, we performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing of 718 P. larvae samples cultured from pooled, extracted honey collected from 52 beekeepers over a 2-y period, 2019 and 2020. We found that 65 of 718 (9%) P. larvae samples collected from 8 beekeepers were resistant to oxytetracycline with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 64–256 µg/mL. Eight of 718 (1%) samples from 4 beekeepers had intermediate resistance to oxytetracycline (MIC: 4–8 µg/mL). Susceptibility testing for tylosin and lincomycin indicated that P. larvae in Saskatchewan continue to be susceptible to these antimicrobials (tylosin MIC: <1 µg/mL, lincomycin MIC: ≤2 µg/mL). Most oxytetracycline-resistant P. larvae samples were identified in northeastern Saskatchewan. Whole-genome sequence analysis identified the P. larvae–specific plasmid pMA67 with tetracycline-resistance gene tet(L) in 9 of 11 oxytetracycline-resistant P. larvae isolates sequenced. Our results highlight the advantage of using pooled, extracted honey as a surveillance tool for monitoring AMR in P. larvae.
Novel peeling skin condition in neonatal Pacific walruses, Saint Lawrence Island, Alaska, USA
Authors: Stimmelmayr Raphaela , Rotstein David , Sanchez Susan , Baird Amy , Sheffield Gay , Snyder Jonathan A.
Published: September 2023

We describe here a novel peeling skin condition (PSC) in 2 neonatal Pacific walruses ( Odobenus rosmarus subsp. divergens). Macroscopically, calves had various degrees of peeling skin exacerbated by mechanical trauma. Lesions occurred in areas subject to friction: ventrum, fore- and hindflippers, and associated joints. Histopathologic features included pseudocarcinomatous epithelial hyperplasia with orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis. Bacterial cocci were present within the stratum corneum. A few intraepidermal clefts were present. Inflammation, epidermolysis, and vasculopathies were not observed. PCR assays were negative for vesivirus and for Staphylococcus aureus exfoliative and toxic shock syndrome toxins. Tissue samples were cultured and bacteria isolated and identified by MALDI-TOF MS as Carnobacterium maltaromaticum, Psychrobacter phenylpyruvicus, Globicatella sanguinis, Streptococcus phocae, Pseudomonas spp., Rahnella aquatilis, and Escherichia coli. Given the young age of the calves and their clinical presentation, congenital ichthyosis was suspected. No genetic differences were detected for sequenced portions of keratin genes (keratin gene K10) between diseased and normal walrus skin. This rare PSC in neonatal Pacific walruses is recognized as novel by indigenous Alaskan marine mammal hunters of the Bering Strait region. A comprehensive diagnostic work-up of future case materials is needed to characterize the underlying biochemical defect(s).
Empirical Investigation of Different Factor Structures for the Eating Disorder Examination–Questionnaire in Adult Women With Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Jenkins Paul E. , Blalock Dan V. , Duffy Alan , Mehler Philip S. , Rienecke Renee D.
Published: September 2023

The Eating Disorder Examination–Questionnaire (EDE-Q) is a widely used self-report measure of eating pathology. Despite widespread use, investigations of its factor structure have proved inconclusive and rarely supported the “original” interpretation. The current study evaluates several proposed factor solutions of the EDE-Q using latent variable analysis in a sample of adult women with anorexia nervosa (AN). A total of 804 patients from a specialist treatment center in the United States participated in the study. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on 22 EDE-Q items assessing attitudinal features of eating pathology. Findings suggested that three full-item versions (none of which was the “original” interpretation) fit the data adequately, with a brief, seven-item version showing excellent fit. The study is one of the first to examine this within a sample of women with AN and provides an empirical foundation for how best to use the EDE-Q among clinical and research participants with AN. Findings suggest that the “original” factor structure lacks structural validity in women with AN. Its use should generally be discouraged, and future work on screening and treatment outcomes might consider the EDE-Q7.
Understanding the Nature of Family Violence Against Women With Insecure Migration Status in Australia
Authors: Vasil Stefani
Published: September 2023

Feminist researchers have diversified understandings of family violence by examining how women's experiences are influenced by gender and its intersections with other social inequalities. This article seeks to contribute to intersectional and transnational feminist scholarship on violence that examines the influence of structural factors such as insecure migration status on the nature of women's lived experiences in Western industrialized countries. It reports on findings from a study with migrant women who experienced family violence in Victoria, Australia when their migration status was “insecure,” and examines similarities and differences in the forms and patterns of violence and abuse women described.
Improvements in networking processes for hip or knee revision arthroplasty: a silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chatterji Urjit , Puttock Darren , Kheiran Amin , Sandean Darren , Mundy Gary , Menon Dipen , Brown Andrew
Published: September 2023

Background:

Improvements in outcomes following hip and knee revision arthroplasties have been demonstrated following the introduction of specialised orthopaedic services in the form of ‘hub and spoke’ networking models. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, these networks have undergone some inevitable adaptations. We investigated the impact of recent adaptations on the performance of our regional revision arthroplasty network.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all referrals that were discussed at our regional revision arthroplasty meeting, over 2 separate phases, was undertaken. Phase 1 included data between March 2018 and April 2019, representing an interval prior to COVID-19 pandemic. Phase-2 included data between September 2020 and March 2021 (during COVID-19 pandemic). Data were collected from East Midland South Orthopaedic Network (EMSSON) database and included data relating to indication and time to revision surgery, surgeon’s proposal plan, network proposal plan, and executed definitive plan. We compared and analysed network performance between 2 phases.

Results:

In phase 1, 99 cases were discussed in EMSSON meetings, equating to 35.7% of the region’s revision arthroplasty volume, according to the National Joint Registry (NJR) records. Plan alterations were recommended in 48/99 cases (48.5%), of which 41/48 (85.4%) were adhered to. Phase 2 included 98 discussed cases, equating to 81.6% of the region’s revision arthroplasty volume. Plan alterations were recommended in 20/98 cases (20.4%), all of which were adhered to (100%). Adherence to recommended adaptations showed significant improvement ( p < 0.03).

Conclusions:

Based upon our observations, a greater volume and proportion of revision arthroplasty cases are now being discussed. Adherence to MDT recommendations has significantly improved following the described adaptations. The number of recommended adaptations to management plans have decreased, indicating an educational value of the network. Overall, these findings demonstrate a trend towards NHS England’s target of 100% of revision arthroplasty cases undergoing MDT discussion.
The Role of the Kynurenine/AhR Pathway in Diseases Related to Metabolism and Cancer
Authors: Shadboorestan Amir , Koual Meriem , Dairou Julien , Coumoul Xavier
Published: September 2023

The Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a xenobiotic and endobiotic receptor, which regulates many cellular processes from contaminant metabolism to immunomodulation. Consequently, it is also involved in pathophysiological pathways and now represents a potential therapeutical target. In this review, we will highlight the ancestral function of the protein together with an illustration of its ligand’s battery, emphasizing the different responses triggered by these high diverse molecules. Among them, several members of the kynurenine pathway (one key process of tryptophan catabolism) are AhR agonists and are subsequently involved in regulatory functions. We will finally display the interplay between Tryptophan (Trp) catabolism and dysregulation in metabolic pathways drawing hypothesis on the involvement of the AhR pathway in these cancer-related processes.
The effects of various combinations of form-focused instruction techniques on the acquisition of English articles by second language learners of English
Authors: Lloyd Jackie S. , Lee Andrew H.
Published: September 2023

The current study investigated the extent to which second language (L2) learners of English benefitted from various combinations of form-focused instruction (FFI) techniques on the acquisition of English articles. Forty-six participants were randomly assigned to four conditions: input enhancement only ( n = 12); input enhancement and metalinguistic explanations ( n = 11); input enhancement, metalinguistic explanations, and practice ( n = 11); and a control condition ( n = 12). They each received six hours of online instruction on English articles according to their condition. The participants’ knowledge of articles was measured by four tasks (i.e. grammaticality judgment task, metalinguistic knowledge task, elicited imitation task, and picture-description task) in a pretest, an immediate posttest, and a delayed posttest. Results showed that the group receiving input enhancement and metalinguistic explanations exhibited clear and durable gains in the metalinguistic knowledge task. Furthermore, a subset of participants who benefitted the most from the instructional treatment revealed two common factors: a first language (L1) without an article system and a high rate of engagement during the online instruction. The findings suggest that metalinguistic explanations clearly contribute to explicit knowledge of articles and that learners’ L1 backgrounds may affect the extent to which FFI on English articles benefits them. The present study contributes meaningfully to the current understanding of the effects of FFI as well as the L2 acquisition of English articles.
Examining the antecedents and outcomes of satisfaction in film festival context: Further evidence of validity of the eudaimonic feelings construct
Authors: Medeiros Sandro Alves de , Campos Ana Cláudia , Sthapit Erose , Freitas Lara Brunelle Almeida , Mondo Tiago Savi
Published: September 2023

Within festivals and events, film festivals are among the fastest growing cultural events in the world and are recognised as bringing environmental, sociocultural and economic benefits to host tourism destinations including enhanced well-being. These festivals are an important marketing strategy for developing destination image and attracting interest towards a destination. However, there are limited studies on the film festival experience exploring the antecedents of participants’ satisfaction. This study examines the relationship between eudaimonic feelings, novelty, local culture, nostalgia, perceived quality, satisfaction, and behavioural intentions. Data were gathered during the last 3 days of the Penedo Film in the City of Penedo, Northeast Brazil using a questionnaire. A total of 97 valid questionnaires were collected from the festival attendees. Findings show that only eudaimonic feelings and perceived quality are predictors of satisfaction. To the best of authors knowledge, this study is the first to examine the perceived experience of participants in a film festival context from a positive psychology perspective and providing further empirical support for construct validity of eudaimonic feelings. The findings contribute to the existing tourism literature on film festivals by identifying key antecedents (eudaimonic feelings and perceived quality) and outcomes (behavioural intentions) of satisfaction with film festival. One of the main managerial implications includes engaging film festival participants in co-creation processes and in promoting group discussions about a specific movie with an appealing and social relevant theme.
How to signal product variety on pack: an investigation of color and image cues
Authors: Ward Ella , Romaniuk Jenni , Trinh Giang , Dawes John , Beal Virginia
Published: September 2023

Line Extensions are among the most common form of product launch in packaged goods markets. As part of this process, brand managers must decide the visual design of the new variant’s packaging. To inform this decision making, this research aims to empirically quantify the efficacy of using colors versus images as signals of product variety on pack. We compare the use of color on 576 packs with perceptions of 1,853 category buyers across three categories in the USA. We find that for 84% of variant types, marketers use common colors to signal variety on pack, while consumers perceive that only 56% of variant types are represented by a particular color. Of greater concern, the colors used in practice and those expected by consumers align in only 16% of cases. By comparison, images are linked to variant types to a significantly greater extent (39% of cases). This suggests images are a stronger and more explicit signal of product variety than color. There are multiple implications arising from this study. It expands scholarly research on the use of colors in product extensions and, at the same time, provides a series of valuable benchmarks for industry practice in the portfolio management domain.
The Prevalence and Severity of School Bullying among Left-Behind Children: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tu Ying , Qing Zai-hua , Lin Chen-xi , Yan Chu-han , Yin Hua-zhan , Ighaede-Edwards Isabella Gloria , Cheng Si-xiang , Liu Xiao-qun
Published: September 2023

The involvement of left-behind children (LBC) in school bullying has raised concern in China. However, the susceptibility of LBC to engage in bullying is controversial, and comprehensive, representative studies covering the entire country are lacking. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and severity of school bullying among LBC. The Chinese National Knowledge Network, WanFang, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and EBSCO databases were searched for literature on being left-behind and bullying before April 2022. The effect size was measured by odds ratio (ORs), standard mean difference (SMD), and 95% confidence interval (CI). Random-effects or fixed-effects models were selected for meta-analysis, and subgroup analysis was used to explore the sources of heterogeneity. The meta-analysis included 25 studies of school bullying among LBC and non-LBC (NLBC). The prevalence of bullying perpetration and victimization among LBC were 18.58% (95% CI [3.72%, 33.44%], p < .05) and 40.62% (95% CI [25.47%, 55.78%], p < .05), respectively. Compared with NLBC, the risk of bullying perpetration and victimization among LBC increased 1.97 times (OR = 1.97, 95% CI [1.77, 2.20], p < .05) and 2.17 times (OR = 2.17, 95% CI [1.43, 3.29], p < .05), respectively. The severity of bullying experienced by LBC was higher than that of NLBC (SMD = 0.49, 95% CI [0.20, 0.79], p < .05). The prevalence and severity of school bullying were higher in LBC than in NLBC, and left-behindness was positively associated with school bullying. LBC are a crucial population to protect when developing bullying interventions.
Gendered Socio-Economic Integration: Lessons From the Syria Response
Authors: Killian Caitlin , Olmsted Jennifer C.
Published: September 2023

Despite increasing awareness, there are gaps in implementers' policy initiatives and ability to effectively deploy programs that incorporate gender mainstreaming in refugee contexts. Challenges impacting the design and implementation of gender sensitive livelihoods programming are identified based on forty-eight interviews with UN and (I)NGO staff in Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). Problems include a lack of gender expertise, internalized gender stereotypes, lack of donor commitment to gender goals, not being able to measure outcomes, and/or time constraints. We highlight best practices that make programs that help women refugees obtain work more successful. At the same time, interviewees raised important questions concerning the appropriate metrics for measuring the success of ‘livelihoods' initiatives, arguing that social integration, increasing women’s soft skills and self-confidence were just as or more important than economic objectives of many initiatives being rolled out.
Reference-Point Theory: An Account of Individual Differences in Risk Preferences
Authors: Mellers Barbara A. , Yin Siyuan
Published: September 2023

We propose an account of individual differences in risk preferences called “reference-point theory” for choices between sure things and gambles. Like most descriptive theories of risky choice, preferences depend on two drivers—hedonic sensitivities to change and beliefs about risk. But unlike most theories, these drivers are estimated from judged feelings about choice options and gamble outcomes. Furthermore, the reference point is assumed to be the less risky option (i.e., sure thing). Loss aversion (greater impact of negative change than positive change) and pessimism (belief the worst outcome is likelier) predict risk aversion. Gain seeking (greater impact of positive change than negative change and optimism (belief the best outcome is likelier) predict risk seeking. But other combinations of hedonic sensitivities and beliefs are possible, and they also predict risk preferences. Finally, feelings about the reference point predict hedonic sensitivities. When decision makers feel good about the reference point, they are frequently loss averse. When they feel bad about it, they are often gain seeking. Three studies show that feelings about reference points, feelings about options and feelings about outcomes predict risky choice and help explain why individuals differ in their risk preferences.
The influence of tonality, tempo, and musical sophistication on the listener’s time-duration estimates
Authors: Silva Ligia Borges , Phillips Michelle , Martins José Oliveira
Published: September 2023

Music listening affects time perception, with previous studies suggesting that a variety of factors may influence this: musical, individual, and environmental. Two experiments investigated the effect of musical factors (tonality and musical tempo) and individual factors (a listener’s level of musical sophistication) on subjective estimates of duration. Participants estimated the duration of different versions of newly composed instrumental music stimuli under retrospective and prospective conditions. Stimuli varied in tempo (90–120 bpm) and tonality (tonal-atonal), in a 2 × 2 factorial design, while other musical parameters remained constant. Estimates were made using written estimates of minutes and seconds in Experiment 1, and the reproduction method in Experiment 2. Two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) showed no main effect of tonality on estimates and no significant interactions between tempo and tonality, under any condition. Musical tempo significantly affected estimates, with the faster tempo leading to longer estimates, but only in the prospective condition, and with the use of the reproduction method. Correlation matrices using the Pearson correlation coefficient found no correlation between musical sophistication scores (measured using the Goldsmiths Musical Sophistication Index [Gold-MSI]) and verbal or reproduction estimates. In conclusion, together with the existing literature, findings suggest that (1) changes in tonality, without further changes in rhythm, metre, or melodic contour, do not significantly affect estimates; (2) small changes in musical tempo influence only prospective reproduction estimates, with larger tempo differences or longer stimuli being needed to cause changes in retrospective estimates; (3) participants’ level of musical sophistication does not impact estimates of musical duration; and (4) empirical research on music listening and subjective time must consider potential method-dependent results.
Impact of interactivity on learning outcome in online learning settings: Ordinal logit model
Authors: Leem Byung-Hak
Published: September 2023

The study aimed to investigate the relationship between content, teaching, and LMS platform, and student achievement in online classes. To accomplish this, the study drew upon the transactional distance theory and the community of inquiry framework. Using log data from the LMS platform, the study analyzed the impact of student-faculty interaction, student-content interaction, and student-systems interaction on learning outcomes. The sample consisted of online classes offered in the Department of International Marketing at B University in Korea during the spring semester of 2022. The study specifically targeted classes with 40 or more students to ensure an adequate sample size. The researchers used parallelism tests to confirm the validity of the research model, followed by a goodness of fit test with an ordinal Logit model. The results indicated that all three factors of interaction (content, teaching, and platform) had a significant positive effect on learning outcomes, while student-Zoom interaction did not. The interaction between learners and content was found to be the most important predictor of learning achievement, suggesting that student engagement with course materials plays a crucial role in their academic success. The study’s findings have important implications for educators who are interested in improving online teaching and learning. The study recommends expanding the empirical analysis of the research model from the existing structural equation or multiple regression model to the ordinal logit model to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of these factors on student achievement. Overall, the study highlights the importance of considering the complex interaction between content, teaching, and platform in designing and delivering effective online courses that promote student engagement and achievement.
Reducing Effect of a Standardized Extract of Apple Branches on Food Intake in Healthy, Nonobese Rats
Authors: Carai Mauro A.M. , Sitzia Erika , Colombo Giancarlo
Published: September 2023

Literature data suggest that apple-derived products, including phenol-enriched extracts, may reduce food intake in rodent models of diet-induced obesity. With the intent of further expanding this research issue, the present study investigated the effect of an apple branch extract (ABE)—standardized for the polyphenol, phlorizin (22.93%)—on regular food intake in healthy, nonobese Wistar rats. Rats were given unlimited access to standard food pellets and water in the homecage. Acute, intragastric treatment with ABE (0, 300, and 900 mg/kg) effectively and selectively reduced food intake. The effect of 900 mg/kg ABE was closely replicated by acute treatment with 200 mg/kg pure phlorizin, suggesting that this was the likely active ingredient underlying the effect of ABE on food intake. These results further strengthen the hypothesis that apple-derived products may represent a promising option for novel pharmacotherapies for eating disorders and overweight.
How combinations of constraint affect creativity: A new typology of creative problem solving in organizations
Authors: Cromwell Johnathan R.
Published: September 2023

Research suggests that extreme levels of constraint can push people to use different types of creative problem solving, but this conflicts with recent theory arguing that individuals are most creative under a moderate level of constraint. To resolve this issue, this paper proposes a combinatorial theory of constraints that argues it is necessary to understand how multiple dimensions of constraint (e.g., on problems and resources) work together to influence creativity, rather than study them in isolation. Accordingly, two conditions can enhance creativity—either through divergent problem solving or emergent problem solving—because they produce an overall balanced combination of constraint that improves important psychological mechanisms of creativity such as intrinsic motivation and creative search. Alternatively, two other conditions can hinder creativity—either due to ambiguous opportunity or futile effort—because they produce a combined low or high level of constraint on a task.
The longevity of tooth-coloUred materials used for restoration of tooth wear: an evidence-based approach
Authors: Mehta Shamir B. , Banerji Subir , Crins Luuk , Opdam Niek , Loomans Bas A. C.
Published: September 2023

Patients with tooth wear are commonly encountered in general dental practice. When indicated, restorative rehabilitation is often accompanied by a request from the patient for an aesthetic, tooth-coloured outcome. This article seeks to provide an evidence-based approach, focussing on the longevity of the materials which can be used for the restorative treatment of tooth wear, as well as their modes of failure and observed performance.
Adhesion to enamel and dentine: an update
Authors: Alkattan Rana
Published: September 2023

With the continuous development of adhesive technology leading to a wide variety of bonding systems in the market, clinicians are often faced with a vast number of systems to choose from. Although research and manufacture of bonding systems is constantly progressing, the focus has generally been on simplifying the bonding process by reducing the number of clinical steps, with little emphasis on evidence-based performance. This article draws attention to the current strategies of common commercially available products to guide clinicians during bonding system selection and application.
A Survey of Retention and Support for Anterior Bounded Saddles of Removable Partial Dentures
Authors: Faigenblum Maurice J.
Published: September 2023

The treatment for the anterior bounded saddle because of missing teeth presents several challenges, primarily that of aesthetics. The choice of treatment depends on the position of the saddle, its size, the amount of available alveolar bone support, the health of the abutment teeth, and the patient’s wishes.

With regard to the use of a removable partial denture (RPD), while acknowledging the significant importance of aesthetics, unless the presence of adequate retention of the prosthesis is ensured, the appearance of the teeth alone will not guarantee its acceptability.

This article highlights techniques that are available to provide adequate retention which will, in turn, give a patient confidence with the use of their denture. The techniques described are dependent on laboratory technical knowledge and skills, and on the ability of the patient to manipulate the appliance.
Aesthetic Management of Tooth Size Discrepancies
Authors: Aulakh Raman , Weinstein Tommaso
Published: September 2023

The aesthetic management of tooth size discrepancies is an essential component when dealing with simple and complex dental rehabilitation. Tooth size and shape is a crucial factor that strongly influences both the smile and the face in the treatment outcome. From an orthodontic perspective, evaluation of the ideal mesiodistal widths relating to both maxillary and mandibular arches is required to plan the correct occlusal, aesthetic, and functional result.

The aim of this paper is to propose a safe and repeatable method to evaluate and correct tooth size discrepancy through the presentation of two case reports. Both cases were managed using a combination of clear aligner therapy and minimally invasive restorative procedures, as well as the use of digital tools.
A Rural Ecological School Counseling Framework
Authors: Fears Allison , Henry Sarah , Grimes Tameka
Published: September 2023

With significant challenges in rural schools such as limited mental health resources, poverty, high visibility, and physical isolation, rural school counselors face a set of unique experiences and challenges. We present an ecological framework to conceptualize the roles, responsibilities, and challenges of rural school counselors and provide intervention strategies to address these challenges that are contextually aware and could be tailored to the communities they serve.
Arab Media Researchers’ Perceptions of Factors Affecting Their Research Problem Selection
Authors: Elhamy Hossam Mohamed , Abdulmajeed Maha
Published: September 2023

This study examines the factors affecting media researchers’ selection of media research problems. Combining qualitative and quantitative methods, in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of Arab media researchers were conducted, followed by applying a 22-item questionnaire on a sample of 247 from Arab media researchers. The impact of internal/subjective factors and external/objective factors, on the selection of research problems by Arab media researchers, and their perceptions were investigated. Findings revealed that internal factors are perceived to have a higher impact than external factors. However, external factors are perceived to have a stronger negative impact than positive ones. Findings also raise several issues regarding scientific considerations, institutional requirements, and socio-political conditions that lead researchers to either avoid certain topics or change the angle of their view for their research. The study proposed a theoretical framework regarding the process of selecting research problems in the media field of Arab countries.
Impact of Vocational Core Competencies of Higher Vocational Students on Innovative Behavior: The Mediating Effect of Creative Self-Efficacy and Moderating Effect of Core Self-Evaluation
Authors: Xie Xin , Yu You , Wang Weiyu
Published: September 2023

The cultivation of vocational core competencies is one of the essential guarantees to realizing students’ overall development. It is also a key quality and ability to promote students’ adaptation to lifelong development and career requirements. In this study involving 844 higher vocational students in Beijing, we analyzed the effect of vocational core competencies on innovative behavior. We find that sophisticated relationships exist between vocational core competencies, creative self-efficacy, innovative behaviors, and core self-evaluation. Innovative behavior positively correlated with vocational core competencies, in which creative self-efficacy has a partial mediating effect, positively regulated by core self-evaluation. Thus, higher vocational colleges should emphasize developing vocational core competencies systems and cultivating students’ innovative behaviors to promote all-around development.
What is the “Meaning of School” to High School Students? A Scale Development and Implementation Study Based on IRT and CTT
Authors: Toraman Çetin , Korkmaz Güneş
Published: September 2023

Understanding education and schooling has always been of great importance for researchers and for the society in digital era. The changing conditions and ever-growing situations in education have also impacted on the meaning that the students attribute to schools, especially after the pandemic. This study aims to develop a measurement tool that will provide information about the meaning of school for high school students and make comparisons on the basis of some sociodemographic variables using this tool. About 6,453 students studying in various types of high schools participated in the research. The data were randomly divided into two data files. Exploratory factor analysis, Item response theory analysis, and reliability analyses (Cronbach’s Alpha and McDonald’s omega) were performed to determine the construct validity of the scale from the first data file created with 1,940 high school students. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to confirm the structure from the second data file created by 1,898 high school students. From the total data file, analyses were conducted with students’ gender, grades, school type, the field of study/major, mother and father’s level of education, and family income. The results reveal that most of the students attribute a positive meaning to the school in condition that they are female and study in early grades. In addition, if they are not successful enough, if they were not provided quality education in science, if their parents’ education level and family income is low, they have positive views about school.
Analysis of Neurogenic Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction Following Decompression Surgery for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kanematsu Ryo , Hanakita Junya , Inoue Tomoo , Minami Manabu , Suda Izumi , Nakamura Sho , Ueno Manabu , Takahashi Toshiyuki
Published: September 2023

Study Design

A prospective observational study.

Objectives

To investigate preoperative prevalence of neurogenic bowel dysfunction and neurogenic bladder in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) and examine the degree and timing of symptom improvement after cervical decompression surgery. Factors contributing to symptom improvement were also analyzed.

Methods

Among 75 patients with DCM who underwent cervical decompression, Constipation Scoring System (CSS) score, International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score were assessed before surgery and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after. Prevalence rates were calculated. Data regarding patient age, sex, disease status, disease duration, lesion level, and score changes was prospectively recorded and analyzed.

Results

The prevalence rates of defecation and urinary dysfunction before surgery were 41.3% and 34.7%, respectively. Among the patients with defecation dysfunction, the number of patients who improved 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery was 10, 9, 9, and 6, respectively. Among the patients with urinary dysfunction, the corresponding number of patients was 12, 10, 11, and 11, respectively. None of the factors we examined were significantly associated with improvement in either CSS or IPSS score; however, improvement of lower extremity JOA score tended to be associated with improvement in both.

Conclusions

The prevalence of symptoms of defecation and urinary dysfunction in patients with DCM was 41.3% and 34.7%, respectively. Decompression surgery improved symptoms in 20% to 46% of patients.
Differences in calculated body fat percentage estimated from published equations based on bioelectric impedance analysis in healthy young South African adults
Authors: Kyusa Muhindo Macky , Kruger Herculina Salome , de Lange-Loots Zelda
Published: September 2023

Background:

Adult overweight and obesity, in addition to the intake of saturated fat and total serum cholesterol must be monitored as biological risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) provides data on body fat for use in epidemiological settings. However, optimized equations should be used to calculate percentage body fat (%BF). The purpose of this study was to assess the differences between %BF calculated using different published BIA equations and %BF measured by BIA in young South African adults.

Design and methods:

In this observational study, differences in calculated %BF were assessed, with different BIA equations retrieved from the literature used in 1128 healthy young adults aged 20–30 years. The %BF (measured by BIA) was compared between equations, between Black and White men and women, respectively.

Results:

The results showed statistically significant differences in the %BF calculated from published BIA equations when used in young South African adults (χ² = 946, χ² = 2528, χ² = 2088, respectively, p < 0.0001). In Black and White men and women, respectively, %BF levels were significantly higher when calculated by equations, than when measured by BIA (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

There seem to be large discrepancies in estimating %BF by BIA equations and these values cannot be used interchangeably for young South African adults. A South African age, ethnicity and sex-specific BIA equation needs to be developed to accurately estimate %BF in young South African adults.
Rethinking Teacher Retention Policy: Empowering Australian Teachers Through Autonomy, Collaboration and Career Progression
Authors: Patil Ruturaj
Published: September 2023

This article examines the challenges facing the teaching profession in Australia and proposes solutions to address issues of teacher retention, administrative workload and career progression. Providing autonomy to teachers and developing a clear career progression plan can help retain experienced teachers, and reducing administrative tasks and promoting collaboration can enhance teacher satisfaction and effectiveness. New roles for experienced teachers should be explored. These include instructional specialist roles that would provide teachers with opportunities for career progression and collaboration. Implementing such programmes would need to be justified to policymakers or even taxpayers, as they could involve potential financial costs. A comprehensive approach is necessary to ensure that teaching remains an attractive and rewarding profession in Australia for the country’s better prospects.
BAP1 mutations inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway to induce an immunosuppressive microenvironment in uveal melanoma
Authors: Zhang Chao , Wu Shuai
Published: September 2023

Background

Tumor immune microenvironment regulates the growth and metastasis of uveal melanoma (UM). This study aims to reveal the possible molecular mechanism of BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) mutations in affecting the tumor immune microenvironment in UM through mediating the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway.

Methods

TCGA and cBioPortal databases jointly analyzed the genes with high mutation frequency in UM samples. Following survival analysis of UM patients, UM samples with BAP1 mutations were subjected to immune cell infiltration analysis. The signaling pathways associated with the mutated genes were screened by GSEA. Subsequently, the differential BAP1 expression was analyzed in the selected UM cell lines with wild type (WT) or mutant type (MUT) BAP1.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis identified 12 genes mutated in the UM samples, while only BAP1 mutations were related to the prognosis of UM patients. UM patients with BAP1 mutations had higher immune cell infiltration. BAP1 mutations inhibited the NF-κB signaling pathway, suppressing the cytokine secretion and antigen presentation by macrophages. Rescue experiments confirmed that overexpressed NF-κB could reverse the effect of BAP1 mutations on the immunosuppressive microenvironment, thus suppressing the malignant phenotypes of UM cells.

Conclusion

BAP1 mutations may inhibit the NF-κB signaling pathway, repressing the cytokine secretion and antigen presentation by macrophages, which induces the immunosuppressive microenvironment, enhances the malignant phenotypes of UM cells and ultimately promotes the growth and metastasis of UM.