bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENSINO REMOTO NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL: UMA ANÁLISE A PARTIR DA PERCEPÇÃO DAS PROFESSORAS DE INSTITUIÇÕES PÚBLICAS
Authors: Basei Andréia Paula
Published: May 2022

Este trabalho se propõe a analisar a percepção das professoras sobre o desenvolvimento do ensino remoto na educação infantil durante o ano letivo de 2020, marcado pela pandemia da Covid-19. Por meio de uma pesquisa qualitativa descritiva e de campo, foi realizada uma interlocução com dez professoras de instituições públicas de educação infantil de quatro municípios de pequeno porte da microrregião norte central do estado do Paraná/Brasil. Os dados foram analisados mediante a análise de conteúdo. O estudo evidencia os desafios das práticas pedagógicas remotas, as quais precisaram ser revistas e reinventadas diante de um cenário de emergência que não possibilitou o planejamento e a preparação adequada das professoras, das estruturas, equipamentos, recursos e materiais pedagógicos. Conclui-se que a pandemia trouxe desafios para o setor educacional e que as professoras têm se mostrado resilientes para assegurar a qualidade do processo de ensino e aprendizagem das crianças.
A IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DE UM AMBIENTE VIRTUAL DE APRENDIZAGEM DURANTE A PANDEMIA NUMA ESCOLA PÚBLICA DE ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Riedo Cássio Ricardo Fares
Published: May 2022

A pandemia pegou o mundo todo de surpresa e as escolas tiveram de se adaptar às mudanças impostas pela COVID-19. Este artigo apresenta um estudo de caso sobre a implementação de um Ambiente Virtual de Aprendizagem (AVA) durante a pandemia numa escola pública de Ensino Fundamental I. Os dados analisados foram retirados do AVA, considerando principalmente informações sobre o último acesso e as atividades inseridas pelos professores para cada turma num bimestre. Além dos dados retirados da plataforma, também foram considerados um questionário enviado virtualmente aos responsáveis e respondido entre julho e agosto e outro aplicado na primeira quinzena de dezembro. Foi possível observar como resultado que, apesar de inicialmente ter atingido cerca de 70% dos estudantes, com o passar do tempo a participação caiu até cerca de 44% na última semana de utilização do AVA. O artigo apresenta reflexões sobre todo o processo de implementação e utilização da plataforma.
Flora oleífera e sua guilda de abelhas em uma comunidade de restinga tropical
Authors: Ramalho Mauro , Silva Maíse
Published: May 2022

As abelhas Centridini destacam-se na comunidade de abelhas da restinga arbustivo-arbórea, onde somam 20% das espécies e 50% dos indivíduos. As 17 espécies dessa guilda de coletores de óleos concentram-se especialmente nas flores de Byrsonima sericea D.C. (Malpighiaceae), a única fonte local de óleos florais. B. sericea é auto-incompatível e depende de Centridini para polinização cruzada, por isso, a abundância dessas abelhas parece estreitamente relacionada à densidade local excepcionalmente elevada desta fonte de óleo (65 indiv/ha) e vice-versa. Este argumento é apoiado, indiretamente, pela correlação positiva entre as diversidades alfa de Centridini e de Malpighiaceae nesta faixa tropical. Em aparente contradição, a abundância de óleos florais oferece explicação mais satisfatória para a diversidade excepcionalmente elevada de Centridini na restinga, do que a riqueza local da flora oleífera. Ricos em óleos florais, os hábitats de restinga arbustiva-arbórea funcionam como centro de expansão populacional de Centridini e, por isso, têm papel central na conservação biológica in situ.
Impalatabilidade de girinos de Hyla semilineata (Anura: Hylidae) a serpentes do gênero Liophis (Colubridae: Xenodontinae
Authors: Lima Flávia Maria Pires , Juncá Flora Acuña
Published: May 2022

Em cativeiro, foram oferecidos girinos de diferentes espécies (Scinax pachychrus, Hyla semilineata e Rana catesbeiana) para Liophis viridis e Liophis miliaris. Os girinos de S. pachychrus e de R. catesbeiana foram consumidos. Na primeira tentativa de alimentá-las com girinos de H. semilineata, as serpentes regurgitaram a presa, havendo rejeição desta espécie em outras tentativas. Para testar um aprendizado da impalatabilidade dos girinos de H. semilineata pelas serpentes, foram oferecidos girinos de H. semilineata associados a S. pachychrus. O teste foi replicado mais três vezes, associando girinos de H. semilineata e R. catesbeiana, havendo sempre recusa do indivíduo de H. semilineata e consumo do girino da outra espécie. Aparentemente, girinos de H. semilineata podem liberar substâncias irritantes para a mucosa gástrica de seus predadores e as serpentes aqui estudadas distinguiram entre girinos palatáveis e impalatáveis após uma primeira tentativa e experiência desagradável durante o consumo de um girino impalatável.
Role of unit-cell defects in terahertz topological ring resonators
Authors: Jana Sambhu , Devi Koijam Monika , Chowdhury Dibakar Roy
Published: May 2022

We demonstrate a terahertz topological ring resonator based on all-dielectric valley photonic crystals. A triangular ring-shaped topological edge is coupled to a straight topological waveguide by suitably merging two valley photonic crystals. The resonant characteristics are investigated for different asymmetry parameters as well as for different domain interfaces (zigzag and bridge type) constituting the ring resonator. In the topological ring resonator, ultra-narrowband high quality (Q)-factor resonances are excited. Then, multiple defect states are intentionally introduced into the domain interfaces, and the influences of defects on the terahertz propagation and the Q-factors are examined for both types of domain interfaces. Numerical simulation studies on terahertz transmission reveal a resonance redshift of

∼

10

G
H
z

due to the introduction of multiple defect states. Such resonance redshift is attributed to the alteration in the effective refractive indices of the structure. Very high Q-factors within the range of 1240–840 are achieved even in the presence of several unit-cell defects owing to strong field confinements in the domain interface. This research can open up new routes for the development of nonlinear technologies and other advanced on-chip topological devices at THz frequencies.
Sensing enhancement of a Fabry-Perot THz cavity using switchable VO2 mirrors
Authors: Papari Gian Paolo , Pellegrino Anna Lucia , Malandrino Graziella , Andreone Antonello
Published: May 2022

We experimentally investigate the sensing properties of an open cavity operating in the THz regime and realized by employing as mirrors two thin vanadium dioxide (VO2) films grown on silicon parallel plates and separated by a variable length. The phase transition of VO2 is used to control the behavior of the system between two different responses: a high transmission mode to the incident radiation (VO2 in the insulating state) and a high sensitivity to tiny changes in the cavity refractive index (VO2 in the conducting state). In the first state, the low loss regime enables to adjust the cavity length and easily optimize the resonances due to the Fabry-Perot (FP) effect in the Si plates and in the cavity volume. The activation of the metallic-like state instead, by damping the FP oscillations in the plates, promotes the onset of a comb-like spectrum that can be exploited as a versatile tool for accurate sensing applications. Using both an analytical model and full-wave simulations, we estimate the device response to variation in the refractive index of the cavity volume, showing that the proposed structure can achieve sensitivity values among the highest reported for THz sensors.
Interdigitated photoconductive antenna-based two-color femtosecond laser filamentation THz time-domain spectral detection
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Zhang Zeliang , Su Qiang , Xu Qiang , Guo Lanjun , Yu Zhiqiang , Qi Pengfei , Kosavera Olga , Gong Cheng
Published: May 2022

Two-color femtosecond (fs) laser filamentation in the gas medium is an effective way to generate broadband and high intensity terahertz (THz) pulse. The interdigitated photoconductive antenna (iPCA) has the advantages of both broadband detection and high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which is a very effective way to detect the THz pulse produced by two-color fs laser filamentation. The THz signal from two-color fs laser filamentation is comprehensively characterized by the iPCA, which achieves high SNR, high sensitivity, and polarization detection. This work provides a new idea for high power broadband THz coherent detection.
Negative dispersion of a form birefringence in subwavelength gratings
Authors: Dang Phuc Toan , Kim Jongyoon , Lee Ji-Hoon
Published: May 2022

An achromatic response is required in most optical systems for wideband and straightforward configurations. The chromatic response of the optical system depends on the optical dispersion of the elements in the system. Here we study the dispersion of subwavelength grating (SWG) known to have a form birefringence. The birefringence of SWG was numerically analyzed with Bloch wave analysis (BWA) and finite element method (FEM). The sandwiched SWG with two identical substrates was studied for practical applications. We successfully demonstrated the negative dispersion form birefringence of SWG with an optimal duty cycle. This extraordinary dispersion was also shown considering the intrinsic dispersion of materials. Dispersion- and the angular response were in a tradeoff relationship while they depended on periodicity. The optical interference between the grating and the substrates can be eliminated by controlling the duty cycle. Our analysis offers optimal SWG with achromatic birefringence and high transparency, promising in the widespread applications of polarization control devices.
Three-axis closed-loop optically pumped magnetometer operated in the SERF regime
Authors: Yan Yeguang , Lu Jixi , Zhang Shaowen , Lu Fei , Yin Kaifeng , Wang Kun , Zhou Binquan , Liu Gang
Published: May 2022

We propose a three-axis closed-loop optically pumped magnetometer with high sensitivity. The closed-loop magnetometer has a three-axis sensitivity of approximately 30 fT/Hz1/2 using two orthogonal laser beams for pumping and probing the alkali metal atoms. In the closed-loop mode, the dynamic range is improved from ±5 nT to ±150 nT. The bandwidth is increased from about 100 Hz to over 2 kHz with 10 kHz modulation fields in x- and y-axes and another 6 kHz modulation field along the z-axis. Compared with single-axis or dual-axis magnetometers, the proposed magnetometer not only provides the direction and magnitude of the magnetic field but also has high robustness in a challenging environment. The magnetometer has applications in biomagnetic measurements, magnetic resonance imaging, and fundamental physics.
Polarization-resolved scintillations in Young’s experiment
Authors: Gao Yaru , Cai Yangjian , Friberg Ari T. , Visser Taco D.
Published: May 2022

The conventional scintillation, or intensity fluctuation, that occurs in random electromagnetic beams is just one member of a broader class of four interconnected, polarization-resolved scintillations. We examine these generalized scintillations, called Stokes scintillations, that occur when two stochastic electromagnetic beams are made to interfere in Young’s experiment. We find that the magnitude of the conventional scintillation can be decreased, within certain limits, at the expense of an increase of one or more of the other Stokes scintillations. For certain applications however, it may be beneficial to suppress the latter.
Portable wedge prism scanner for laser surface cleaning of corroded 304L stainless steel
Authors: Hoang Ha-My , JongYoo Hyun , Park ChangKyoo , Choi Jiyeon , Ahn Sang Hoon , Noh Ji-Whan
Published: May 2022

A compact wedge prism scanner for laser surface cleaning is proposed, wherein the concept of system was studied based on geometric analysis. The final equations for the design express the transposition of the laser beam focal point and scanning radius. The results were verified through comparisons to both Zemax simulation and experiments. There was satisfactory agreement between the equations and Zemax simulation, but slight disagreement with the experiments. Additionally, two main factors of wedge prism scanner in commercial laser removal applications (circumferential overlap and spot overlap) was also discussed and the completely corrosion removal experiment indicated the potential use of our scanner.
Frequency noise stabilisation of a 1550 nm external cavity diode laser with hybrid feedback for next generation gravitational wave interferometry
Authors: Spencer Andrew , Barr Bryan , Bell Angus , Briggs Joseph , Minty Andrew , Sorazu Borja , Wright Jennifer , Strain Kenneth
Published: May 2022

Longer wavelength lasers will be needed for future gravitational wave detectors that use cryogenic cooling of silicon based test-mass optics. Diode lasers with a 1550 nm wavelength output are potential seed light sources for such a detector, however diode laser devices have a different spectral profile and higher frequency noise than the solid state lasers used in current detectors. We present a frequency stabilisation system for a 1550 nm external cavity diode laser capable of reducing the laser frequency noise to a level of

0.1

Hz

Hz

up to 1 kHz with a unity gain frequency of 535 kHz using a hybrid analogue-digital servo with in-loop cancellation of resonant features. In addition, a method of high speed digital filter optimisation and automated design is demonstrated.
Electromagnetically induced modification of gold optical properties
Authors: Feizollah Peyman , Berg Matthew J.
Published: May 2022

The reflection of light from a metal film, i.e., a mirror, is among the most fundamental and well-understood effects in optics. If the film thickness is greater than the wavelength, reflection is strong and is explained in simple terms by the Fresnel equations. For film thickness much less than the wavelength, reflection is far weaker and more exotic effects become possible. This is especially so if the light illuminating the film is pulsed at the femtosecond time scale. In this work, a phenomenon is proposed where few-femtosecond laser pulses temporarily modify a thin metal film’s optical properties via processes that appear linear and classical in nature. By casting a pulsed standing-wave pattern across the metal surface, we consider the possibility that conduction electrons are redistributed to create temporary regions of partly enhanced or reduced density without the excitation of inter-band transitions. The process would constitute a temporary change to the conductivity of the metal, and thus, may be observable as changes to the metal’s transmittance and reflectance. In regions where the density is enhanced (reduced), the transmittance is decreased (increased). The concept is termed Electromagnetically Induced Modification (EIM) and is premised on the fact that the pulse length is shorter than the relaxation time of the conduction electrons. An experiment is conducted to test the concept by measuring the change in reflectance and transmittance of gold films with thickness ranging from 20–300 Angstrom. The results show that the film’s transmittance decreases only when the standing-wave pattern is present. As the pulse length is increased, or as the film thickness is increased, the changes disappear. The changes show little dependence on the pulse intensity as it is varied by a factor of two. To gain further insight, the Drude theory is used to develop a simplified model for EIM, which qualitatively agrees with the observations. However, neither the experiment nor the model can prove the validity of the EIM concept. As such, an assessment is made for the potential of alternative well-known processes to explain the observations.
Liquid-based transparent, wideband and reconfigurable absorber/reflector
Authors: Yuan Hang , Li Huangyan , Feng Youyi , Xing Lei , Fang Xiaoxing , Wang Yi , Cao Qunsheng
Published: May 2022

In this paper, an optically transparent and wideband absorber/reflector with switchable states and tunable frequency spectrum is presented. The proposed structure consists of a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layer with microchannel structures and an Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) layer as the metal panel. The switching function is implemented by controlling the injection and discharge of pure water, and the switchable frequency band of the absorbing and reflecting states ranges from 7.9 to 34.4 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 125.2%. The tunable properties are achieved by changing the concentration of the injected saline water. In addition, the distributions of the electric field, the magnetic field and the power loss density are used to further understand the physical mechanism of the structure. Moreover, it also performs well under different polarizations and incident angles. For validation, a transparent and wideband absorber/reflector is fabricated and tested, and the simulated and measured results are consistent with each other.
Multimode interference in topological photonic heterostructure
Authors: Liu Lei , Wang Yueke , Zheng Feixiang , Sang Tian
Published: May 2022

In this Letter, topological photonic heterostructures, which are composed of finite-size photonic crystals with different topological phases, are proposed. The coupled topological edge states (CTESs), which originate from the coupling between topological edge states, are found. By using the finite element method, the multimode interference effect of CTESs is predicted and investigated. Paired and symmetrical interferences are discussed, and the respective imaging positions are calculated. In addition, the multimode interference effect is topologically protected when introducing disorders. As examples of application, frequency and power splitters of topological edge states based on the multimode interference effect are designed and demonstrated numerically. Our findings pave a new, to the best of our knowledge, way of designing topological photonic integrated circuit applications such as filters, couplers, multiplexers, and so on.
Factors affecting households’ trust in the community based health insurance scheme in Ethiopia
Authors: Eseta Wakuma Akafu , Sinkie Shimeles Ololo
Published: May 2022

The trust that potentially community-based health insurance (CBHI) members have in the actual health insurance scheme is a crucial determinant for members who decided to enroll and continue being members of the scheme. While the literature on health insurance in low-income countries mentions the importance of trust in consumers’ decision to insure, to date the association between trust and trust-building factors has not been researched in the Ethiopian context. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the factors affecting households’ trust in the CBHI scheme in Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 617 household heads from March 1–30, 2020. A multistage sampling technique was carried out and interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed, and variables with a P-value < 0.05 were considered to have a statistically significant association with trust in the CBHI scheme. A household survey resulted in 617 households being interviewed making a response rate of 97.3%. The mean age of the respondents was 44.7 (SD°11.2) years and the majority of the respondents were Oromo 528(85.6%). Holding other covariant fixed, educational level of household head (ß = 0.17, 95% CI:0.14–0.32), members’ satisfaction with past experience (ß = 0.40, 95%CI:0.41–0.57), favorable attitude toward CBHI (ß = 0.31, 95%CI:0.12–0.49), perceived quality of service (ß = 0.15, 95% CI:0.02–0.29) and dropout from CBHI (ß = -0.23, 95%CI:- 0.41–- 0.05) were covariant that had an association with trust in the CBHI scheme. This study found that the educational level of the household head, members’ satisfaction with past experience, members’ attitude toward CBHI, perceived quality of services and dropout from CBHI were covariant that were affecting trust in the CBHI scheme. Therefore, if the scheme wants to build trust and maintain membership, great attention should be given toward the improvement of the quality of service and attitude of members towards the CBHI scheme. These findings suggest that CBHI managers, different health insurance agencies, providers and policymakers need to think systematically about a wide range of initiatives that enhance trust and caring, and to design trust-building structures and practices that sustain the CBHI scheme.
Predictors of HIV testing among women experiencing intimate partner violence in the Central Region of Ghana
Authors: Afari Beatrice Adwoa , Enos Juliana Yartey , Alangea Deda Ogum , Addo-Lartey Adolphina , Manu Adom
Published: May 2022

HIV testing, which is important for the control of the HIV pandemic, has been hampered by several factors including Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), resulting in low uptake. This study sought to determine the predictors of HIV testing among women experiencing IPV. Secondary analysis of data generated from a cross-sectional mixed-method unmatched cluster-randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate a multi-faceted community intervention to reduce the incidence of IPV in Ghana was done (N = 2000). Logistic regressions were performed to determine the predictors of HIV testing among women experiencing IPV, using the trial baseline data. The prevalence of HIV testing among women exposed to IPV in the study setting was 42.4%. Less than a third of the respondents (30.2%) had ever used condom and 96.6% had unemployed partners. Age, educational attainment, employment, residence and condom use were found to be significant predictors of HIV testing among women experiencing IPV. Women aged 25–39 years were more than twice as likely to test for HIV (AOR:2.41; 95%CI:1.45–4.02) than those above 45 years. Women with formal education (Junior-High—AOR:2.10; 95%CI:1.42–3.12; Senior-High—AOR:3.87; 95%CI:2.07–7.26); who had ever used condom (AOR:1.42; 95%CI:1.05–1.93); those reporting life satisfaction (AOR:1.44; 95%CI:1.08–1.92); and coastal residents (AOR:1.97; 95%CI:1.45–2.67) were more likely to test for HIV than those who did not and inland residents. However, employed women (AOR:0.66; 95%CI:0.45–0.96) were less likely to test for HIV than unemployed women. Less than half of the women exposed to IPV had tested for HIV. Socioeconomic disadvantages related to age, education, employment, residence and life satisfaction predicted HIV testing among women exposed to IPV. Considering the vulnerability of women experiencing IPV to HIV infection, strategies to improve uptake of HIV testing must tackle contextual socioeconomic factors that hinder access to services.
‘Science is only half of it’: Expert perspectives on operationalising infectious disease control cooperation in the ASEAN region
Authors: Durrance-Bagale Anna , Marzouk Manar , Ananthakrishnan Aparna , Nagashima-Hayashi Michiko , Lam Sze Tung , Sittimart Manit , Howard Natasha
Published: May 2022

Governmental awareness of the potential spread of infectious disease, exemplified by the current Covid-19 pandemic, ideally results in collective action, as countries coordinate a response that benefits all, contributing expertise, resources, knowledge and experience to achieve a common public good. However, operationalising regional cooperation is difficult, with barriers including lack of political will, regional heterogeneity, and existing geopolitical issues. We interviewed 23 people with regional expertise focusing on Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe. All interviewees held senior positions in regional bodies or networks or had significant experience working with them. Operationalisation of a regional infectious disease body is complex but areas interviewees highlighted–organisational factors (e.g. integration and harmonisation; cross-border issues; funding, financing and sustainability; capacity-building; data sharing); governance and diplomacy (e.g. building collaborations and partnerships; communication; role of communities; diplomacy; leadership; ownership; sovereignty; political commitment); and stakeholders and multilateral agreements–will help promote successful operationalisation. The international infectious disease community has learned valuable lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic, not least the necessity of pooling human, financial and technological resources, constructing positive working relationships with neighbours, and sharing data. Without this kind of regional cooperation, infectious diseases will continue to threaten our future, and the next pandemic may have even more far-reaching effects.
Combining rapid diagnostic tests to estimate primary and post-primary dengue immune status at the point of care
Authors: Biggs Joseph R. , Sy Ava Kristy , Ashall James , Santoso Marsha S. , Brady Oliver J. , Reyes Mary Anne Joy , Quinones Mary Ann , Jones-Warner William , Tandoc Amadou O. , Sucaldito Nemia L. , Mai Huynh Kim , Lien Le Thuy , Thai Hung Do , Nguyen Hien Anh Thi , Anh Dang Duc , Iwasaki Chihiro , Kitamura Noriko , Van Loock Marnix , Herrera-Taracena Guillermo , Menten Joris , Rasschaert Freya , Van Wesenbeeck Liesbeth , Masyeni Sri , Haryanto Sotianingsih , Yohan Benediktus , Cutiongco-de la Paz Eva , Yoshida Lay-Myint , Hue Stephane , Rosario Z. Capeding Maria , Padilla Carmencita D. , Sasmono R. Tedjo , Hafalla Julius Clemence R. , Hibberd Martin L.
Published: May 2022

Background

Characterising dengue virus (DENV) infection history at the point of care is challenging as it relies on intensive laboratory techniques. We investigated how combining different rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) can be used to accurately determine the primary and post-primary DENV immune status of reporting patients during diagnosis.

Methods and findings

Serum from cross-sectional surveys of acute suspected dengue patients in Indonesia (N:200) and Vietnam (N: 1,217) were assayed using dengue laboratory assays and RDTs. Using logistic regression modelling, we determined the probability of being DENV NS1, IgM and IgG RDT positive according to corresponding laboratory viremia, IgM and IgG ELISA metrics. Laboratory test thresholds for RDT positivity/negativity were calculated using Youden’s J index and were utilized to estimate the RDT outcomes in patients from the Philippines, where only data for viremia, IgM and IgG were available (N:28,326). Lastly, the probabilities of being primary or post-primary according to every outcome using all RDTs, by day of fever, were calculated. Combining NS1, IgM and IgG RDTs captured 94.6% (52/55) and 95.4% (104/109) of laboratory-confirmed primary and post-primary DENV cases, respectively, during the first 5 days of fever. Laboratory test predicted, and actual, RDT outcomes had high agreement (79.5% (159/200)). Among patients from the Philippines, different combinations of estimated RDT outcomes were indicative of post-primary and primary immune status. Overall, IgG RDT positive results were confirmatory of post-primary infections. In contrast, IgG RDT negative results were suggestive of both primary and post-primary infections on days 1–2 of fever, yet were confirmatory of primary infections on days 3–5 of fever.

Conclusion

We demonstrate how the primary and post-primary DENV immune status of reporting patients can be estimated at the point of care by combining NS1, IgM and IgG RDTs and considering the days since symptoms onset. This framework has the potential to strengthen surveillance operations and dengue prognosis, particularly in low resource settings.
Places of safety? Fear and violence in acute mental health facilities: A large qualitative study of staff and service user perspectives
Authors: Jenkin Gabrielle , Quigg Stewart , Paap Hannah , Cooney Emily , Peterson Debbie , Every-Palmer Susanna
Published: May 2022

Aim

To understand violence on acute mental health units according to staff and service user perspectives and experiences.

Background

The collateral damage of violence in acute inpatient mental health settings is wide-ranging, impacting on the health and wellbeing of staff and service users, and detrimental to public perceptions of people who are mentally unwell. Despite international research on the topic, few studies have examined psychiatric unit violence from both staff and service user perspectives.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews with 85 people (42 staff, 43 service users) in four adult acute mental health inpatient units in New Zealand. We undertook a thematic analysis of perspectives on the contributing factors and consequences of violence on the unit.

Results

Both staff and service users indicated violence was a frequent problem in acute inpatient units. Four themes regarding the causes of violence emerged: individual service user factors, the built environment, organisational factors, and the overall social milieu of the unit. Staff often highlighted complexities of the system as causal factors. These included the difficulties of managing diverse service user illnesses within an inadequate and unsafe built environment whilst having to contend with staffing issues and idiosyncrasies relating to rule enforcement. In contrast, service users talked of their needs for care and autonomy not being met in an atmosphere of paternalism, boredom due to restrictions and lack of meaningful activities, enforced medication, and physical confinement as precipitants to violence. Two broader themes also emerged, both relating to empathy. Both staff and service users exhibited ‘othering’ (characterised by a profound lack of empathy) in relation to acutely unwell individuals. Explanations for violent behaviour on the unit differed between groups, with service users being more likely to attribute unwanted behaviour to contextual factors and staff more likely to ‘blame’ mental illness. The consequences of violence included stress, physical injury, and a culture of fear and stigma.

Conclusion

Violence in acute inpatient mental health units in New Zealand is a significant, complex, and unresolved problem negatively impacting the therapeutic mission of these settings. Further in-depth qualitative investigations are urgently required into what is experienced as violence by service users, their view of how violence occurs, the role of fear and power relations, and the contributions of the built and organisational environment to all forms of violence to all unit users. A core function of the acute mental health unit is to offer a therapeutic environment for individuals at their most vulnerable. For this to happen, the unit must be a rewarding place to work, and a safe place to be.
Effectiveness of the conservation areas on the Mornington Peninsula for the common resident shorebird species using citizen science data
Authors: Wijewardhana Udani Abhisheka , Apputhurai Pragalathan , Jayawardana Madawa , Meyer Denny
Published: May 2022

Conservation areas are critical for biodiversity conservation, but few citizen science studies have evaluated their efficiency. In the absence of thorough survey data, this study assessed which species benefit most from conservation areas using citizen science bird counts extracted from the Atlas of Living Australia. This was accomplished by fitting temporal models using citizen science data taken from ALA for the years 2010–2019 using the INLA approach. The trends for six resident shorebird species were compared to those for the Australian Pied Oystercatcher, with the Black-fronted Dotterel, Red-capped Dotterel, and Red-kneed Dotterel exhibiting significantly steeper increasing trends. For the Black-fronted Dotterel, Masked Lapwing, and Red-kneed Dotterel, steeper rising trends were recorded in conservation areas than in other locations. The Dotterel species’ conservation status is extremely favourable. This study demonstrates that, with some limits, statistical models can be used to track the persistence of resident shorebirds and to investigate the factors affecting these data.
The influence of freeway curve characteristics on drivers’ speed perception accuracy
Authors: Xu Jinliang , Li Haoru , Zhang Xiaodong , Ma Fangchen , Sun Zhenhua
Published: May 2022

Owing to the complicated geometric conditions and increasingly diversified driving environment, freeway curves have become a road section with frequent serious accidents. To ensure safe driving on curves, drivers must first perceive the movement condition and the vehicle’s position, and accurately evaluate the characteristics of the road to make the right speed choice. In this process, the perception of speed plays a crucial role. The present study aims to investigate the driver’s speed perception characteristics with respect to freeway curves to better understand the driver speed selection mechanism. We first construct six three-dimensional (3D) virtual highway models, which are consistent with the geometric lines and traffic engineering instruments of real freeways. A virtual simulation test is then conducted in a highly immersive environment. After the completion of the simulation experiment, we conduct a field verification experiment, test the actual driving speed and perceived speed of drivers in the same place as the simulation experiment, and verify the effectiveness of the simulation method. Finally, 25 3D curve models of four different types are constructed, and the influence of curve characteristics (e.g., curve radius, curve combination, tangent length between curves) on drivers’ speed perception accuracy are tested on the simulation platform. The results show that the driver’s perceived speed is lower than the real speed when driving on curves, and the tangent-to-spiral (TS) point is the section where the driver’s speed is most underestimated. Radius was the most important factor affecting driver’s speed perception, but the tangent length between curves also had a lesser influence. However, the curve combination had no effect on it. Our findings can help researchers and road designers understand the reasons for drivers’ speed choice, thus promoting drivers’ safety on freeway curves.
Paranormal beliefs and cognitive function: A systematic review and assessment of study quality across four decades of research
Authors: Dean Charlotte E. , Akhtar Shazia , Gale Tim M. , Irvine Karen , Grohmann Dominique , Laws Keith R.
Published: May 2022

Background

Research into paranormal beliefs and cognitive functioning has expanded considerably since the last review almost 30 years ago, prompting the need for a comprehensive review. The current systematic review aims to identify the reported associations between paranormal beliefs and cognitive functioning, and to assess study quality.

Method

We searched four databases (Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and OpenGrey) from inception until May 2021. Inclusion criteria comprised papers published in English that contained original data assessing paranormal beliefs and cognitive function in healthy adult samples. Study quality and risk of bias was assessed using the Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) and results were synthesised through narrative review. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was preregistered as part of a larger registration on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/uzm5v).

Results

From 475 identified studies, 71 (n = 20,993) met our inclusion criteria. Studies were subsequently divided into the following six categories: perceptual and cognitive biases (k = 19, n = 3,397), reasoning (k = 17, n = 9,661), intelligence, critical thinking, and academic ability (k = 12, n = 2,657), thinking style (k = 13, n = 4,100), executive function and memory (k = 6, n = 810), and other cognitive functions (k = 4, n = 368). Study quality was rated as good-to-strong for 75% of studies and appears to be improving across time. Nonetheless, we identified areas of methodological weakness including: the lack of preregistration, discussion of limitations, a-priori justification of sample size, assessment of nonrespondents, and the failure to adjust for multiple testing. Over 60% of studies have recruited undergraduates and 30% exclusively psychology undergraduates, which raises doubt about external validity. Our narrative synthesis indicates high heterogeneity of study findings. The most consistent associations emerge for paranormal beliefs with increased intuitive thinking and confirmatory bias, and reduced conditional reasoning ability and perception of randomness.

Conclusions

Although study quality is good, areas of methodological weakness exist. In addressing these methodological issues, we propose that authors engage with preregistration of data collection and analysis procedures. At a conceptual level, we argue poorer cognitive performance across seemingly disparate cognitive domains might reflect the influence of an over-arching executive dysfunction.
Community pharmacists’ routine provision of drug-related problem-reduction services
Authors: Al-Taani Ghaith M. , Ayoub Nehad M.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The present study aimed to assess the degree of the provision of services for drug-related problems (DRPs) and the factors affecting provision within the community pharmacy setting in Irbid, a large city in Northern Jordan.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was developed and administered to community pharmacists in Irbid, Jordan during the period from January to May 2017. The survey is composed of background and practice characteristics, services provided routinely by the community pharmacists to address DRPs, and barriers and facilitators for DRP-reduction services. A summated score quantifying the degree of DRP-reduction service provision was calculated, which included overall scores and scores for the different scales and domains. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and a multivariate linear regression model for factors associated with the high provision of DRP-reduction service.

Results

Two hundred community pharmacists out of 210 pharmacists approached completed the surveys yielding a response rate of 95.2%. The most frequent DRPs encountered within the routine practice in the community pharmacy were economic aspects (76.0%). The mean total score relating to different DRP-reduction services was 32.9 (58.8%) out of 56 as the maximum possible score. It was estimated that 28.2% of the responding pharmacists provided the service overall (scored more than 50% of the scale). For the assessment, intervention, and referral dimensions, similar percentages of providers of the services were achieved: 59.7%, 61.9%, and 49.0%, respectively. Lower rates of providers were achieved on the documentation scale (12.9%). The lack of recognition of the pharmacist role by physicians was the most commonly reported barrier to effective DRP-reduction services among community pharmacists (78.9%). The ability to receive external guidance was indicated by the majority of surveyed pharmacists (94.5%) as a potential facilitator to DRP-reduction services in this study. Predictors associated with high total scores were the presence of medical records for the patients in the pharmacy, patients contact the pharmacy using email, a high satisfaction in professional relationships with physicians, and pharmacists’ age.

Conclusion

Even though community pharmacists in this study have been shown to deliver certain activities to address DRPs to a high degree, the overall rate of DRPs services was suboptimal. Community pharmacists reported several barriers that should be taken into consideration to facilitate the role of community pharmacists in providing adequate DRP reduction services to patients.
Acute respiratory infection rates in primary care anticipate ICU bed occupancy during COVID-19 waves
Authors: Guillen Montserrat , Bardes Robles Ignasi , Bordera Cabrera Ester , Acebes Roldán Xénia , Bolancé Catalina , Jorba Daniel , Moriña David
Published: May 2022

Background

Bed occupancy in the ICU is a major constraint to in-patient care during COVID-19 pandemic. Diagnoses of acute respiratory infection (ARI) by general practitioners have not previously been investigated as an early warning indicator of ICU occupancy.

Methods

A population-based central health care system registry in the autonomous community of Catalonia, Spain, was used to analyze all diagnoses of ARI related to COVID-19 established by general practitioners and the number of occupied ICU beds in all hospitals from Catalonia between March 26, 2020 and January 20, 2021. The primary outcome was the cross-correlation between the series of COVID-19-related ARI cases and ICU bed occupancy taking into account the effect of bank holidays and weekends. Recalculations were later implemented until March 27, 2022.

Findings

Weekly average incidence of ARI diagnoses increased from 252.7 per 100,000 in August, 2020 to 496.5 in October, 2020 (294.2 in November, 2020), while the average number of ICU beds occupied by COVID-19-infected patients rose from 1.7 per 100,000 to 3.5 in the same period (6.9 in November, 2020). The incidence of ARI detected in the primary care setting anticipated hospital occupancy of ICUs, with a maximum correlation of 17.3 days in advance (95% confidence interval 15.9 to 18.9).

Interpretation

COVID-19-related ARI cases may be a novel warning sign of ICU occupancy with a delay of over two weeks, a latency window period for establishing restrictions on social contacts and mobility to mitigate the propagation of COVID-19. Monitoring ARI cases would enable immediate adoption of measures to prevent ICU saturation in future waves.
Experimental research on rapid removing characteristics of carbon monoxide generated during gas explosions
Authors: Sun Yashengnan , Zhou Xihua , Li Ang , Bai Gang , Xin Tianyu , Wang Jue , Xiao Mufeng
Published: May 2022

A large amount of gas, such as CO, accumulates in a coal mine after an explosion, leading to CO poisoning. In this study, a self-developed platform was used to eliminate CO from coal mines and determine the mass of the rapidly eliminated CO and its concentration in the eliminated gases. Equations were derived to calculate the amount of CO eliminated and the removing rate. The results showed that a rapid removing reagent in the form of nonprecious metal catalysts is useful for removing CO. Removing agents with larger masses facilitated the activation, irrespective of the CO concentration. For removing reagent amounts of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 g, the amount of CO eliminated, the removing rate, and the time required to complete catalytic oxidation increased sequentially. The CO removing process could be divided into three stages (I, II, and III) based on the variations in the CO, CO2, and O2 concentrations during CO removing. The removing reagent first chemically adsorbs CO and O2, and then desorbs CO2. The final CO concentration tends to 0, the O2 concentration remains stable, and the CO2 concentration decreases. This shows that the ablation agent has an impact on the changes in the CO and CO2 concentrations.
Use of combined treatment of 3rd-generation cephalosporin, azithromycin and antiviral agents on moderate SARs-CoV-2 patients in South Korea: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hong Wooyoung , Park Yu-Kyung , Kim Bong-Ok , Park Sung Kyu , Shin Jiin , Jang Soon-Pyo , Park Hea-Woon , Yang Wonjong , Jang Joonyoung , Jang Soon-Woo , Hwang Tae-Ho
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To assess efficacy and safety of the combined treatment of antibiotics (3rd-generation cephalosporin and azithromycin) and antiviral agents (lopinavir/ritonavir or hydroxychloroquine) on moderate COVID-19 patients in South Korea.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of the 358 laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) patients was conducted. 299 patients met inclusion criteria for analysis. Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox regression method were used to control and adjust for confounding factors. Mild to moderate COVID-19 patients were managed with either CA/LoP (cephalosporin, azithromycin, and lopinavir/ritonavir) (n = 57), CA/HQ (cephalosporin, azithromycin, and hydroxychloroquine) (n = 25) or standard supportive care (n = 217). We analyzed the association between treatment group and standard supportive group in terms of three endpoints: time to symptom resolution, time to viral clearance, and hospital stay duration. Using propensity-score matching analysis, three rounds of propensity-matching analysis were performed to balance baseline characteristics among three cohorts.

Results

Kaplan-Meier curves fitted using propensity score-matched data revealed no significant differences on time to symptom resolution, time to viral clearance, hospital stay duration among the three treatment arms (CA/LoP vs Standard, log-rank p-value = 0.2, 0.58, and 0.74 respectively for the three endpoints) (CA/HQ vs Standard, log-rank p-value = 0.46, 0.99, and 0.75 respectively). Similarly, Cox regression analysis on matched cohorts of CA/LoP and standard supportive group showed that hazard ratios of time to symptom resolution (HR: 1.447 [95%-CI: 0.813–2.577]), time to viral clearance(HR: 0.861, [95%-CI: 0.485–1.527]), and hospital stay duration (HR: 0.902, [95%-CI: 0.510–1.595]) were not significant. For CA/HQ and standard supportive group, hazard ratios of the three endpoints all showed no statistical significance (HR: 1.331 [95%-CI:0.631–2.809], 1.005 [95%-CI:0.480–2.105], and 0.887, [95%-CI:0.422–1.862] respectively). No severe adverse event or death was observed in all groups.

Conclusions

Combined treatment of 3rd cephalosporin, azithromycin and either low-dose lopinavir/ritonavir or hydroxychloroquine was not associated with better clinical outcomes in terms of time to symptom resolution, time to viral clearance, and hospital stay duration compared to standard supportive treatment alone. Microbiological evidence should be closely monitored when treating SARS-CoV-2 patients with antibiotics to prevent indiscreet administration of empirical antimicrobial treatments.