bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transportar para uma casa o seu próprio coração:
Authors: Dantas Lacerda Geovane , Lages e Silva Rodrigo
Published: August 2024

O artigo pretende analisar, por meio de uma pesquisa envolvendo fontes bibliográficas e documentais, os embates de forças políticas tais como a eugenia, o higienismo, autoritarismo e o racismo – bem com práticas de resistência a essas mesmas forças – no contexto da educadora Armanda Álvaro Alberto enquanto diretora da Escola Regional do Meriti, em Duque de Caxias-RJ. Na primeira década do século XX, Armanda lidou com diferentes manifestações dessas forças em suas relações sociais, com representações das mais divergentes ideologias. O artigo contextualiza a trajetória da educadora, em epígonos biográficos tais como seu envolvimento na Associação Brasileira de Educação e na União Feminina do Brasil, da qual foi a primeira presidente; seu aprisionamento político; e sua participação como signatária do Manifesto dos Pioneiros da Educação Nova. É discutido o uso ofensivo do conceito de comunismo que foi dirigido à Armanda e reflete-se acerca da continuidade no uso desse termo como modo de desqualificar a educação ainda hoje. Nas conclusões são destacados os elementos de inovação pedagógicas presentes em suas propostas e a dimensão afetiva com a qual sua atuação marcou indelevelmente a educação brasileira.
Cotistas raciais e o mercado de trabalho:
Authors: Martins da Rosa Bruna , Cavalheiro de Jesus Suzana
Published: August 2024

O presente trabalho tem como finalidade apresentar parte dos resultados obtidos por meio de uma pesquisa de uma dissertação de mestrado, defendida no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ensino – PPGE. Para isso, buscou-se analisar questões históricas acerca da educação e do mercado de trabalho para a população negra brasileira. Além disso, analisou-se o percurso de inserção no mercado de trabalho dos egressos cotistas raciais negros, pretos e pardos dos cursos presenciais de graduação do Campus Bagé da Unipampa que ingressaram no curso no período de 2015 a 2018 e concluíram o curso entre 2018 e 2022. Cabe destacar que esta é uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo que conjuga análise histórica e a análise de conteúdo de narrativas obtidas por meio de questionário com questões abertas e fechadas, junto a egressos da instituição, que cursaram a graduação enquanto cotistas raciais. O recorte aqui apresentado, considera apenas o ingresso desses egressos no mercado de trabalho. Dito isso, sabe-se que as cotas raciais ampliaram o ingresso da população negra no ensino público superior brasileiro, sendo assim, torna-se pertinente pesquisar acerca da trajetória dos egressos diante de sua inserção no mercado de trabalho.
Trabalho e educação do campo no Vale do Juruá, Acre
Authors: De Lima Nicácio Marcondes
Published: August 2024

A educação do campo, como uma proposta comprometida com as necessidades dos camponeses, compreende a conexão trabalho e escola como essencial para o desenvolvimento no meio rural. Esta pesquisa, analisa as políticas públicas de educação do campo dirigidas aos jovens do Vale do Juruá e suas relações com a pobreza. A problemática elencada para o estudo focou na análise de: quais as relações entre Educação do campo e pobreza para os jovens da região do Vale do Juruá, no estado do Acre? Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo de caso, de cunho qualitativo, através de entrevistas semiestruturas, abordadas por uma análise categorial dialética, mediada pelo software Nvivo. Os resultados do estudo apontam a desvinculação da escola com a materialidade do trabalho nas comunidades e, os problemas estruturais de modalidade de ensino, transporte escolar, alimentação escolar, estrutura física da escola, dentre outros, como os elementos da precarização da educação do campo.
Afrofuturismo na educação:
Authors: Dos Santos Coradini Fábio , Oliveira dos Santos Edméa
Published: August 2024

Neste estudo de natureza bibliográfica, classificado como estado da arte, propomos analisar as descobertas resultantes do mapeamento das produções acadêmicas, dissertações e teses, realizado nas interfaces de domínio público Portal de Periódicos da Capes e Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações (BDTD), relacionando as pesquisas realizadas na episteme Afrofuturismo na Educação, respeitando desde o primeiro ao último trabalho identificado, estabelecendo, assim, o período de 2012 a 2024. A investigação selecionou 37 pesquisas, das quais são 31 dissertações e 6 teses. Foram utilizados como fonte de pesquisa os descritores “afrofuturismo”, “afrofuturo” e “afrofuturista”, articulando as buscas com os descritores de junção representados pelo sinal de “soma” e de continuidade pelo sinal “hífen”, assim como a apropriação dos operadores booleanos “AND” ou “OR”. Os dados formam organizados, categorizados e ordenados conforme as premissas da análise de dados (Bardin, 2016). Os resultados revelaram que trabalhos sobre Afrofuturismo na Educação ainda são poucos, porém estão sendo elaborados em Programas de Pós-Graduação das mais diversas áreas de conhecimento, ao contrário, nos Programas de Pós-Graduação em Educação existem uma ausência de trabalhos nesta temática. Portanto, emerge nesta pesquisa uma demanda por trabalhos no campo da educação, permitindo assim uma maior divulgação científica de temas contemporâneos, como o Afrofuturismo.
As gentes na História da Educação:
Authors: Alexandra Lima da Silva  , Corrêa Custódio Maria Aparecida
Published: August 2024

Quem são as gentes da história da educação? Agentes? Sujeitas? Mulheres de ontem? Às margens? Periféricas? Quando as margens dos rios encontram o asfalto das cidades? De quem é a rua asfaltada?  Atravessam pontes? Cruzam fronteiras? Transitam nas encruzilhadas? Vozes silenciadas? Invisíveis ou invisibilizadas? Quem pode falar? Quem escuta? Quem tem medo do corpo vilipendiado da mulher negra? Quem escuta a criança violada? Quem exuma os ossos dos mortos? Vidas negras importam? Existe amor no encontro das vozes dissidentes? Solitárias? Solidárias? Quem se levanta? Quem se aquilomba? Consciência crítica para quem? Quem ensina a transgredir? Quem evade? Quem permanece? Quem rompe barreiras? Quem se afoga na inundação? Quem resiste? Quem se movimenta? Para onde vai? Quem encontra o caminho de volta para casa? Quem volta para a beira do Rio? Para o fundo do poço? Para o fundo do mar? Para a cova rasa? Para a vala exposta? Futuro para quem? O futuro é um espectro de cores. Luto é verbo. Para as pessoas que vivem às margens, periféricas, (in)visíveis, plurais, potentes.
Cognitive status, psychological state and needs of caregivers for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries: a qualitative study
Authors: Sun Jiaqi , Yu Ping , Zhou Linling , Lu Xiaojie
Published: August 2024

Aims/Background Pressure injury stands as a global healthcare concern, primarily affecting elderly individuals. As the ageing of the global population shows no signs of slowing down, both society and the families of the affected individuals continue to bear the brunt of the consequences of pressure injuries. The majority of pressure injury cases are managed at home, and the occurrence and progression of pressure injuries in the elderly are closely associated with informal caregivers. This study aims to qualitatively explore the cognitive status of caregivers for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries, as well as their psychological state and needs during the caregiving process.

Methods This research is qualitative, descriptive, and phenomenological in nature. A purposive sampling method was used. Eighteen caregivers of elderly patients with pressure injuries were selected from Jiangnan University Medical Centre as interviewees from June 2023 to August 2023. Semi-structured interviews were utilised to collect data regarding the caregivers' cognition, psychological state, and care-related needs while caring for elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries. The data were then organised and analysed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method and NVivo 11.0.

Results Through the analysis of interview data from caregivers of elderly patients with home-induced pressure injuries, three main themes and nine subthemes were identified. The data analysis also revealed that the caregivers surveyed lacked the crucial awareness of preventing pressure injuries and that their caregiving practices were not up to standards. During the caregiving process, they were challenged with substantial stress while also experiencing negative emotions such as anxiety or depression. They had a strong desire for persistent medical support to alleviate the psychological and emotional challenges.

Conclusion The findings of this study establish a collaborative relationship network among the hospitals, family, medical staff, and caregivers in the management of pressure injuries, but with a special attention to the caregivers' needs for disease-related knowledge and psychophysical support. Such relationships streamline communication between medical staff, patients, and their caregivers, facilitating the adoption of active and correct methods by caregivers to prevent and care for pressure injuries. This can positively impact the quality of care for pressure injuries, further improving the life quality of patients and their caregivers, controlling the incidence of pressure injuries, and reducing readmission rates.
Goldfield, Nevada's First Resident Photographers William Irving Booth and Arthur Otto Eppler
Authors: Stoldal Robert A. , Tyler James B.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Brief biographies of two photographers (W.I. Booth and Arthur O. Eppler) in Goldfield during Nevada's early twentieth-century mining boom exemplify the commercialism that photography had achieved by the beginning of the twentieth century. In addition, their work has left significant photographs of Goldfield adding to the story of Nevada's first significant gold and silver strikes comparable to the excitement of the Comstock in the nineteenth century (1860-1880).
Memorable Proof
Authors: Huckaby Letitia , Lynne Jessica
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Jessica Lynne conducted an interview with photographer Letitia Huckaby, a Fort Worth, Texas–based artist and cofounder of Kinfolk House, a collaborative project space in Fort Worth. In 2023, Huckaby was commissioned by Johnica Rivers and Michelle Lanier of the Harriet Jacobs Project to create a photographic series that resulted in the exhibition Memorable Proof . This exhibition was installed in the historic Chowan County Courthouse in Edenton, North Carolina, where Harriet Jacobs was born. In the interview, Huckaby discusses her relationship to the medium of photography through her formal studies at the Art Institute of Boston (now the art school of Lesley University) and the University of North Texas. She also remarks upon her personal, spiritual, and aesthetic relationship to Black southern landscapes such as Greenwood, Mississippi, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the spiritual valences of her artistic practice.
Self-aligned focusing schlieren in optically constrained environments
Authors: Bathel Brett F. , Boyda Matthew T. , Weisberger Joshua M.
Published: August 2024

A method is presented to acquire self-aligned focusing schlieren (SAFS)
images when the optical axis of the instrument is positioned at a
non-normal incidence angle to the background plane on which the grid
pattern is projected, or to the measurement plane on which gradients
in density are visualized, or both. This is accomplished by applying
the Scheimpflug principle and properly orienting the planes on which
the physical grid pattern and image sensor reside within the
instrument so that focused schlieren images on the measurement plane
can be captured. Focused schlieren images from laboratory tests, where
the background plane and measurement plane were separately and then
simultaneously oriented at non-normal incidence to the instrument’s
optical axis, were acquired with and without the appropriate
Scheimpflug adjustments. The results with the appropriate Scheimpflug
adjustments provided the highest quality focused schlieren images.
However, for the scale of the experiments in this work, it was
determined that the Scheimpflug adjustment to the image sensor
affected focused schlieren image quality more than adjustment to the
grid pattern plane. Based on the results of the initial experiments,
two demonstration tests were performed to highlight the applicability
of the technique in optically constrained environments. In the first
test, relatively good focused schlieren images were acquired using a
curved background plane. In the second test, two synchronized
high-speed (100 kHz) SAFS systems acquired images of a jet flow
with overlapping fields-of-view where their optical axes were at
non-normal incidence to the measurement plane, along which the jet
propagated. The resulting images were then stitched together in
post-processing so that an extended field-of-view could be imaged at a
resolution and framing rate that exceeded that of a single high-speed
SAFS system. In general, the results of this work show that
high-quality focused schlieren images can be obtained with the
background plane and measurement plane oriented over a large range of
angles relative to the SAFS instrument’s optical axis.
CRISPR/Cas12a cleavage triggered nanoflower for fluorescence-free and target amplification-free biosensing of ctDNA in the terahertz frequencies
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Zhu Jianfang , Wang Weiqiang , Qian Zhengfang , Fan Shuting
Published: August 2024

The detection of tumor biomarkers in liquid biopsies requires high sensitivity and low-cost biosensing strategies. However, few traditional techniques can satisfy the requirements of target amplification-free and fluorescence-free at the same time. In this study, we have proposed a novel strategy for ctDNA detection with the combination of terahertz spectroscopy and the CRISPR/Cas12 system. The CRISPR/Cas12a system is activated by the target ctDNA, resulting in a series of reactions leading to the formation of an Au-Fe complex. This complex is easily extracted with magnets and when dropped onto the terahertz metamaterial sensor, it can enhance the frequency shift, providing sensitive and selective sensing of the target ctDNA. Results show that the proposed terahertz biosensor exhibits a relatively low detection limit of 0.8 fM and a good selectivity over interference species. This detection limit is improved by three orders of magnitude compared with traditional biosensing methods using terahertz waves. Furthermore, a ctDNA concentration of 100 fM has been successfully detected in bovine serum (corresponding to 50 fM in the final reaction system) without amplification.
Lie algebraic approach to GRIN optimization
Authors: Barion A. , Anthonissen M. J. H. , ten Thije Boonkkamp J. H. M. , IJzerman W. L.
Published: August 2024

The Lie algebraic approach provides a systematic method to determine aberration coefficients for ray propagation in inhomogeneous media. We present the underlying concepts and report analytical expressions for aberration coefficients of arbitrary rotationally symmetric gradient-index (GRIN) lenses. These explicit formulas are well-suited for the application of optimization routines that do not require repeated ray tracing at intermediate optimization steps. We optimize a radial lens, for which we recover a classical solution, and a GRIN lens with inhomogeneous terms along the optical axis.
Distinguishing optical and acoustic phonon temperatures of supported 2D materials by nanosecond time-resolved Raman scattering
Authors: Rahbar Mahya , Al Keyyam Ibrahim , Liu Jing , Wang Xinwei
Published: August 2024

Upon laser irradiation, 2D materials experience a cascading energy transfer from electrons to optical phonons (OPs) and then to acoustic phonons (APs), resulting in a significant thermal non-equilibrium among energy carriers. This non-equilibrium presents challenges for Raman-based thermal characterization, as Raman scattering measures only OP temperature rise, while APs are the primary energy carriers. Despite recent efforts to address this issue, OP–AP thermal non-equilibrium in supported 2D materials remains poorly resolved. Here, we develop a method to distinguish the OP and AP temperature rises based on their different temporal thermal responses under laser irradiation: the OP–AP temperature difference responds almost immediately (∼a few to tens of ps), while the AP temperature rise takes longer to establish (∼tens of ns). Using energy transport-state resolved Raman, we probe the transient thermal response of Si-supported nm-thick MoS2 from 20 to 100 ns. We find that the OP–AP temperature difference exceeds 120% of the AP temperature rise under ∼0.439 µm radius laser heating. The intrinsic interfacial thermal conductance of the samples, based on the true AP temperature rise, varies from 0.199 to 1.46 MW·m−2·K−1, showing an increasing trend with sample thickness.
Both pathogen and host dynamically adapt pH responses along the intestinal tract during enteric bacterial infection
Authors: Woodward Sarah E. , Neufeld Laurel M. P. , Peña-Díaz Jorge , Feng Wenny , Serapio-Palacios Antonio , Tarrant Isabel , Deng Wanyin , Finlay B. Brett
Published: August 2024

Enteric pathogens navigate distinct regional microenvironments within the intestine that cue important adaptive behaviors. We investigated the response of Citrobacter rodentium, a model of human pathogenic Escherichia coli infection in mice, to regional gastrointestinal pH. We found that small intestinal pH (4.4–4.8) triggered virulence gene expression and altered cell morphology, supporting initial intestinal attachment, while higher pH, representative of C. rodentium’s replicative niches further along the murine intestine, supported pathogen growth. Gastric pH, a key barrier to intestinal colonization, caused significant accumulation of intra-bacterial reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting growth of C. rodentium and related human pathogens. Within-host adaptation increased gastric acid survival, which may be due to a robust acid tolerance response (ATR) induced at colonic pH. However, the intestinal environment changes throughout the course of infection. We found that murine gastric pH decreases postinfection, corresponding to increased serum gastrin levels and altered host expression of acid secretion-related genes. Similar responses following Salmonella infection may indicate a protective host response to limit further pathogen ingestion. Together, we highlight interlinked bacterial and host adaptive pH responses as an important component of host–pathogen coevolution.
Estimating orientation in natural scenes: A spiking neural network model of the insect central complex
Authors: Stentiford Rachael , Knight James C. , Nowotny Thomas , Philippides Andrew , Graham Paul
Published: August 2024

The central complex of insects contains cells, organised as a ring attractor, that encode head direction. The ‘bump’ of activity in the ring can be updated by idiothetic cues and external sensory information. Plasticity at the synapses between these cells and the ring neurons, that are responsible for bringing sensory information into the central complex, has been proposed to form a mapping between visual cues and the heading estimate which allows for more accurate tracking of the current heading, than if only idiothetic information were used. In Drosophila, ring neurons have well characterised non-linear receptive fields. In this work we produce synthetic versions of these visual receptive fields using a combination of excitatory inputs and mutual inhibition between ring neurons. We use these receptive fields to bring visual information into a spiking neural network model of the insect central complex based on the recently published Drosophila connectome. Previous modelling work has focused on how this circuit functions as a ring attractor using the same type of simple visual cues commonly used experimentally. While we initially test the model on these simple stimuli, we then go on to apply the model to complex natural scenes containing multiple conflicting cues. We show that this simple visual filtering provided by the ring neurons is sufficient to form a mapping between heading and visual features and maintain the heading estimate in the absence of angular velocity input. The network is successful at tracking heading even when presented with videos of natural scenes containing conflicting information from environmental changes and translation of the camera.
Identifying what contraceptive side effects women are told about during counseling using nationally representative PMA Ethiopia 2019 cross-sectional data
Authors: Zimmerman Linnea A. , Sarria Isabella , Kassa Munir , Karp Celia , Seme Assefa , Shiferaw Solomon
Published: August 2024

Despite widespread concerns about contraceptive side effects among contraceptive users, few studies explore the specific side effects women are told about during contraceptive counseling. It is thus unclear whether women receive appropriate and sufficient information on side effects they may experience. The objective of this study is to describe which specific side effects of hormonal contraception or copper IUD users are counseled on and identify relevant user characteristics associated with receipt of counseling, using nationally representative cross-sectional data from Ethiopia. Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of women between October and December 2019. Analyses were restricted to 2,039 current users of hormonal contraception (implant, injectable, pill, or emergency contraception) or the copper IUD. Descriptive analyses identified the types and number of side effects, across all methods and by the injectable, implant, and pill. Multinomial regression identified factors associated with receipt of counseling on bleeding changes only, non-bleeding changes only, or both, relative to no counseling on side effects, adjusting for method type, source, and socio-economic characteristics. Less than 10% of users were told of at least one bleeding and non-bleeding side effect. Relative to implant users, injectable and other method users were less likely to be told about bleeding changes only (aRRR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.46–0.93 and aRRR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.16–0.61, respectively) and users of other methods were less likely to be told about both a bleeding and non-bleeding change (aRRR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.19–0.93). Users who received their method from a non-public source were less likely to receive counseling on any kind of side effect and nulliparous women were less likely to be told about both kinds of side effects. There is need to improve counseling on the method specific side effects on which women are counseled, particularly in the private sector.
Do self-rated health and previous vaccine uptake influence the willingness to accept MPOX vaccine during a public health emergency of concern? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Braimah Joseph Asumah , Achore Meshack , Dery Florence , Ayanore Martin A. , Bisung Elijah , Kuuire Vincent
Published: August 2024

Monkeypox (MPOX) was declared a global public health emergency of international concern in July 2022. Vaccinations may be an essential strategy to prevent MPOX infections and reduce their impact on populations, especially among at-risk populations. However, less is known about the factors associated with people’s willingness to accept the MPOX vaccine in resource-constrained settings. In this study, we examine the associations between self-rated health, previous vaccine uptake, and people’s willingness to accept the MPOX vaccine using cross-sectional data from four major cities in Ghana. The data were analyzed using descriptive and logistic regression techniques. We found that the acceptance of the MPOX vaccine is generally low (approximately 32%) in Ghana. The regression analysis reveals that individuals who did not receive vaccines in the past are much less likely to get the MPOX vaccine (AOR:.28; 95% CI:.62–2.37). The association between self-rated health and vaccine acceptance (AOR: 1.22; 95% CI:.62–2.37) disappeared after we accounted for covariates. Based on these findings, we conclude that vaccine uptake history may be critical to people’s uptake of the MPOX vaccine.
Sequence typing of Haemophilus ducreyi isolated from patients in the Namatanai region of Papua New Guinea: Infections by Class I and Class II strain types differ in ulcer duration and resurgence of infection after azithromycin treatment
Authors: Medappa Monica , Pospíšilová Petra , John Lucy N. , González-Beiras Camila , Vall-Mayans Marti , Mitjà Oriol , Šmajs David
Published: August 2024

Haemophilus ducreyi (HD) is an important cause of cutaneous ulcers in several endemic regions, including the Western Pacific Region, especially among children. An HD sequence typing on swab samples taken from 1,081 ulcers in the Namatanai district of Papua New Guinea, during the pilot study for treatment of yaws, has been performed using the Grant typing system. Of the 363 samples that tested positive for the 16S rDNA of HD, the dsrA sequences of 270 samples were determined. Altogether they revealed 8 HD strain types circulating in Namatanai, including seven strain types of Class I (I.3, I.4, I.5, I.9, I.10, I.11, I.12) and one strain of Class II (II.3); four Class I types (I.9, I.10, I.11, I.12) were novel. The southern region of Namatanai (Matalai Rural) was identified as the region with the lowest genotype diversity and with most infections caused by HD Class II. The middle and northern subdistricts were affected mainly by HD Class I. Analysis of patient characteristics revealed that Class II HD infections were more often represented by longer-lasting ulcers than Class I HD infections. An increase in the prevalence of the I.10 strain was found after azithromycin administration compared to the untreated population at baseline likely reflecting higher infectivity of HD Class I, and more specifically strain type I.10.
Demographic characteristics and clinical features of patients presenting with different forms of cutaneous leishmaniasis, in Lay Gayint, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Yizengaw Endalew , Gashaw Bizuayehu , Yimer Mulat , Takele Yegnasew , Nibret Endalkachew , Yismaw Gizachew , Cruz Cervera Edward , Ejigu Kefale , Tamiru Dessalegn , Munshea Abaineh , Müller Ingrid , Weller Richard , Cotton James A. , Chapman Lloyd A. C. , Kropf Pascale
Published: August 2024

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Leishmania parasites, that can cause long-term chronic disabilities. The clinical presentation of CL varies in both type and severity. CL presents as three main clinical forms: localised lesions (localised cutaneous leishmaniasis, LCL); mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL) that affects the mucosa of the nose or the mouth; or as disseminated not ulcerating nodules (diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, DCL). Here we recruited a cohort of CL patients in a newly established leishmaniasis treatment centre (LTC) in Lay Gayint, Northwest Ethiopia, and collected detailed demographic and clinical data. The results of our study show that more males than females present to the LTC to seek diagnosis and treatment. 70.2% of CL patients presented with LCL and 20.8% with MCL. A small number of patients presented with DCL, recidivans CL (a rare form of CL where new lesions appear on the edges of CL scars) or with a combination of different clinical presentations. The duration of illness varied from 1 month to 180 months. Over a third of CL patients had additional suspected CL cases in their household. Despite the majority of CL patients having heard about CL, only a minority knew about its transmission or that it could be treated. Most CL patients lived in areas where environmental factors known to be associated with the transmission of CL were present. This work highlights that CL is an important public health problem in Lay Gayint and emphasises the urgent need for more CL awareness campaigns, better health education and better disease management practices.
Association between blood lead, cadmium, selenium levels and hyperlipidemia: A population-based study
Authors: Zhuang Yangping , Wang Yu , Sun Peifen , Ke Jun , Chen Feng
Published: August 2024

Background

There are limited epidemiological investigations of blood metal levels related to hyperlipidemia, and results indicating the association between blood lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and selenium (Se), and lipid biomarkers have been conflicting.

Methods

We included populations for which NHANES collected complete data. Multivariate logistic regression and subgroup analyses were conducted to ascertain the relationship between blood Pb, Cd, and Se levels and hyperlipidemia. Nonlinear relationships were characterized by smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analysis.

Results

5429 participants in all, with a mean age of 53.70 ± 16.63 years, were included; 47.1% of the subjects were male, and 3683 (67.8%) of them had hyperlipidemia. After modifying for variables with confounders in a multivariate logistic regression model, we discovered a positive correlation between blood Pb and Se levels and hyperlipidemia (Pb: OR:2.12, 95% CI:1.56–2.88; Se: OR:1.84, 95% CI:1.38–2.45). Gender, age, smoking status, alcohol use status, hypertension, diabetes, and body mass index were not significantly linked with this positive correlation, according to subgroup analysis and interaction test (P for interaction>0.05). Positive correlations between blood Pb, Cd, and Se levels and the risk of hyperlipidemia have been found using smooth curve fitting.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that higher blood levels of Pb, Cd, and selenium are linked to an increased risk of hyperlipidemia.
Understanding money-management behaviour and its potential determinants among undergraduate students: A scoping review
Authors: Cappelli Theepa , Banks Adrian P. , Gardner Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Background

University students typically face acute financial pressure, which can adversely impact mental health, wellbeing, and academic outcomes. This scoping review of qualitative and quantitative studies aimed to identify distinct money-management behaviours, and psychological determinants, to inform future interventions.

Methods

Two electronic databases were searched for observational studies focusing on money-management behaviours and their correlates (in quantitative studies) or reflections on experiences of such behaviours (qualitative studies). Of 789 unique papers identified, 12 papers, reporting 10 distinct studies (six quantitative, two qualitative, two mixed-methods), were entered into review. We inductively categorised all behaviours and psychological correlates, and narratively synthesised findings.

Results

We documented 15 distinct money-management behaviours, which fitted five higher-order categories: budgeting, saving (i.e., building funds), spending, borrowing, and settling debts. Twenty-two distinct potential correlates were observed, which fitted six categories: personality characteristics, financial beliefs and knowledge, attitudes, affective responses, self-efficacy and control, and social influences. Financial beliefs and knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy and control, and social support from parents and peers were generally associated with ‘better’ money management practices.

Conclusion

Heterogeneity in behaviours and correlates studied precluded definitive conclusions. Future studies should more comprehensively adopt theories and concepts from behavioural science, to distinguish between different money-management behaviours, identify which behaviours have most impact on students, and establish which specific determinants are most related to which money-management behaviours.
Trends in diabetes medication prescribing from 2018 to 2021: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Riad Jessica , Abdelmalek Fred , Ivers Noah , Tadrous Mina
Published: August 2024

Several new classes of medications for diabetes have recently become available newer medication classes have been increasing in use. It is unclear how their utilization varied across provinces and how the COVID-19 pandemic may have affected these trends. Our objective was to investigate Canada-wide and province-specific trends in diabetes medication dispensed by drug class over time, while also examining the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions on diabetes medication dispensing. We conducted a repeated cross-sectional analysis study. Data were obtained from IQVIA’s CompuScript database for Canada-wide prescription dispensing patterns in primary care from January 2018 to December 2021. Drug classes of interest were biguanides dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors, sulfonylurea’s, insulins, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. We examined trends before and after the onset of the pandemic with special attention to changes during periods of high COVID-19 activity. Most drug classes displayed a stable number of prescriptions each month throughout, except for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, which demonstrated a consistent pattern of increased dispensing. Sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists exhibited the greatest growth over the examined period, of 7.9% and 5.0% increases, respectively. For sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, Prince Edward Island (4.0%) displayed the greatest growth while Ontario showed the least (2.5%). For glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor analogs, Saskatchewan (11.3%) displayed the greatest growth and Newfoundland the least (4.5%). The pandemic did not impact overall dispensing trends. However, spikes in COVID-19 cases corresponded to changes in dispensing for most drug classes. Important variations across Canada in guideline-recommended medication classes seems to be increasing over time. This is likely due to differing formulary listing and access to drug coverages. If so, future research could explore national formulary harmonization across Canada and health outcomes for patients with diabetes.
What medical specialists want to stay in remote areas of Indonesia: Discrete choice experiments
Authors: Kurniati Anna , Efendi Ferry , Widowati Angger Rina , Simanjuntak Agustina , Mudina Siska , Ikhwansyah Budi , Noor Arif Yustian Maulana , McKenna Lisa
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The equitable distribution of medical specialists in Indonesia’s remote areas remains a challenge. This study investigated the preferences of medical specialists regarding retention programs aimed at addressing this issue.

Methods

A Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) was utilized to collect stated preferences from 341 medical specialist working in district general hospitals across 10 Indonesian provinces. The DCE retention questionnaire focused on eight key characteristics: location, medical facilities, net income, continuing professional development program, security, length of commitment, source of incentives, and caseload.

Results

The study found that the most influential factors for retention in remote areas were security guarantees from the local government (OR = 6.11), fully funded continuing professional development programs (OR = 2.84), and access to advanced medical facilities (OR = 2.35).

Conclusion

The findings indicate that a comprehensive intervention package, with a particular emphasis on security provisions, is necessary to retain medical specialists in remote areas. Financial incentives are also recommended to improve retention. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that no single intervention will suffice, as the factors influencing specialist retention in remote areas of Indonesia are complex and multifaceted.
Effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on postoperative rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xue Xiali , Kuati Amila , Fu Hao , Song Qingfa , Liu Qiang , Cui Guoqing
Published: August 2024

Background

Rotator cuff tears are a common shoulder injury that significantly impacts patients’ daily lives and work abilities. Although surgical treatment methods for rotator cuff tears have been continuously improved with advances in medical technology, postoperative rehabilitation remains challenging. Therefore, finding effective rehabilitation treatments is crucial for improving patient prognosis and enhancing quality of life. This study will aim to systematically evaluate the impact of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on postoperative rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears, comprehensively assessing the efficacy and safety of LIPUS in postoperative recovery.

Methods

This protocol will search multiple databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials related to LIPUS for postoperative rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears. The search will encompass literature published from the inception of the databases up to April 2024. Methodological quality assessment and data extraction will be conducted using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analysis will be performed on appropriate studies using either random-effects or fixed-effects models, and subgroup analyses will be conducted to explore potential heterogeneity. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria will be included in the analysis. All analyses will be performed using Stata version 16.0.

Results

The incidence of rotator cuff tear rates will be assessed by imaging techniques such as MRI or ultrasound. Pain intensity will be scored using standardized pain assessment scales, such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Improved range of motion (ROM) in shoulder flexion, abduction, and rotation. Functional outcomes will be evaluated using effective measures such as Constant-Murley scores (CMS) and shoulder joint scores by American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES). Adverse events associated with LIPUS therapy, including skin irritation, increased pain, or any other complications. Subgroup analysis will also be carried out if possible.

Discussion and conclusion

Following the meta-analysis, we will assess the overall effect of LIPUS on postoperative rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears, and further explore its impact on aspects such as pain relief, functional improvement, and postoperative complications. It is anticipated that this study will provide comprehensive evidence regarding the role of LIPUS in postoperative rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears, guiding clinical practice and future research. The resultant manuscript will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Protocol registration number

CRD42024530798.
“We help people change harmful norms”: Working with key opinion leaders to influence MNCH+N behaviors in Nigeria
Authors: Adetunji Adetayo , Etim Eno-Obong E. , Adediran Mayokun , Bazzano Alessandra N.
Published: August 2024

Background

Nigeria’s Maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition (MNCH+N) outcomes rank among the world’s poorest. Engaging traditional and religious leaders shows promise in promoting related behaviors. The Breakthrough ACTION/Nigeria project worked with leaders in northern Nigeria to implement the Advocacy Core Group (ACG) model, a social and behavior change (SBC) approach aimed at influencing community norms and promoting uptake of MNCH+N behaviors. Qualitative assessment of the model contributes to evidence on SBC approaches for enhancing integrated health behaviors.

Methodology

This qualitative study was conducted in Nigeria’s Bauchi and Sokoto states in May 2021. It involved 51 in-depth interviews and 24 focus group discussions. The study was grounded in the social norms exploration (SNE) technique to examine normative factors influencing behavior change within the ACG model context. Data analysis used a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Ethical approvals were received from all involved institutions and informed consent was obtained from participants.

Results

The ACG model was vital in the uptake of MNCH+N behaviors. The influence of ACG members varied geographically with greater impact observed in Sokoto State. Normative barriers to improving MNCH+N outcomes included perceived religious conflicts with family planning, preference for traditional care in pregnancy, misinformation on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), and gender-based violence resulting from women’s decision-making. The study demonstrated positive progress in norm shifting, but EBF and GBV norms showed slower changes. Broader challenges within the health system, such as inadequate services, negative attitudes of healthcare providers, and workforce shortages, hindered access to care.

Conclusion

The ACG model increased awareness of health issues and contributed to potential normative shifts. However, slower changes were observed for EBF and GBV norms and broad health system challenges were reported. The model appears to be a promising strategy to further drive SBC for better health outcomes, especially where it is combined with supply-side interventions.
Association between dietary niacin intake and Helicobacter pylori seropositivity in US adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Zeru , Wu Shixin , Chen Guangzhan , Guo Xuguang
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study delves into the association between dietary niacin intake and Helicobacter pylori seropositivity, a topic gaining prominence in academic discourse. However, the precise role of Niacin in the development and progression of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity remains inadequately understood. Thus, this research aims to investigate the connections between H. pylori seropositivity and dietary niacin intake using a nationally representative sample of adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis encompassed 4,000 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted in the United States between 1999 and 2000, all aged 20 years or older. The study employed the generalized additive model (GAM) and multivariate logistic regression to explore the potential relationship between niacin intake and Helicobacter pylori seropositivity. Subgroup analyses were performed based on gender, age, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipemia.

Results

Analyzing cross-sectional data from NHANES 1999–2000 involving individuals aged 20 years and above revealed that out of 4,000 participants, 1,842 tested positive for H. pylori via serology. Multivariate analyses unveiled a significant inverse correlation between niacin intake and H. pylori seropositivity. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for dietary niacin intake in quartiles Q2 (13.31–19.26 mg/d), Q3 (19.27–27.42 mg/d), and Q4 (>27.42 mg/d) compared to Q1 (<13.31 mg/d) were 0.83 (95% CI: 0.69–1.01), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.61–0.90), and 0.66 (95% CI: 0.54–0.81), respectively. Moreover, a nonlinear L-shaped relationship (P = 0.022) emerged between niacin intake and H. pylori seropositivity, indicating minimal risk of H. pylori infection at approximately 44.69 mg of niacin per day in the diet.

Conclusion

This study suggests a potential link between increased dietary niacin intake and reduced prevalence of Helicobacter pylori seropositivity. This correlation is bolstered by plausible mechanisms involving immunomodulatory function, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular oxidative stress.
Identification of Late Pleistocene and Holocene fossil lizards from Hall’s Cave (Kerr County, Texas) and a primer on morphological variation in North American lizard skulls
Authors: Ledesma David T. , Scarpetta Simon G. , Jacisin John J. , Meza Antonio , Kemp Melissa E.
Published: August 2024

Fossil identification practices have a profound effect on our interpretation of the past because these identifications form the basis for downstream analyses. Therefore, well-supported fossil identifications are necessary for examining the impact of past environmental changes on populations and communities. Here we apply an apomorphic identification framework in a case study identifying fossil lizard remains from Hall’s Cave, a late Quaternary fossil site located in Central Texas, USA. We present images and descriptions of a broad comparative sample of North American lizard cranial elements and compile new and previously reported apomorphic characters for identifying fossil lizards. Our fossil identifications from Hall’s Cave resulted in a minimum of 11 lizard taxa, including five lizard taxa previously unknown from the site. Most of the identified fossil lizard taxa inhabit the area around Hall’s Cave today, but we reinforce the presence of an extirpated species complex of horned lizard. A main goal of this work is to establish a procedure for making well-supported fossil lizard identifications across North America. The data from this study will assist researchers endeavoring to identify fossil lizards, increasing the potential for novel discoveries related to North American lizards and facilitating more holistic views of ancient faunal assemblages.
KOJI AWARENESS, a self-rating whole-body movement assessment system, has intersession reliability and comparability to external examiner rating
Authors: Takasaki Hiroshi , Kanayasu Shunsuke
Published: August 2024

KOJI AWARENESS is a newly developed self-rating whole-body movement assessment system that includes 11 domains and 22 tests. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the intersession reliability of KOJI AWARENESS, and the secondary aim was to determine whether a fixed bias existed between self-rating and external examiner rating. Fifty university students rated their movement ability in two separate sessions; an external examiner also rated the students’ movement ability. Participants were blinded to their scores at the first session as well as the external examiner’s rating scores. The primary analysis included examining the intersession reliability of the total score with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). ICC values were interpreted as follows: insufficient, < .7 and sufficient, ≥ .7. To achieve the secondary aim, Bland–Altman analysis was performed. ICC for the intersession reliability was .86 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of .77 to .92 and a minimum detectable change (MDC) of 5.15. Bland–Altman analysis revealed fixed bias as the 95% CIs of the mean difference between the two different rating scores (−3.49 to −2.43 and −3.94 to −2.98 in the first and second sessions, respectively) did not include 0 in the data of each session. However, no proportional bias was identified because no statistically significant Pearson’s correlation (P > .05) was noted between the means of the two methods and the mean difference between the two different methods in each session. This study identified that KOJI AWARENESS has sufficient intersession reliability among relatively young and healthy participants. External examiner rating tended to have lower total scores than self-rating; however, the bias was below the MDC and seemed not to be clinically significant.