bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapting the self-assessment of contextual fit scale for implementation of evidence-based practices in adolescent HIV settings
Authors: Coyle Karin , Carcone April Idalski , Butame Seyram , Pooler-Burgess Meardith , Chang Jason , Naar Sylvie
Published: October 2022

Background

Contextual fit is an important variable in the implementation of evidence-based programs (EBPs). The objectives of the current study were to examine the psychometric properties of the adapted Self-Assessment of Contextual Fit (SACF) measure for HIV clinical care settings (calling it SACF-HIV) and explore how perceptions of contextual fit varied across two different interventions (an intervention to scale up tailored motivational interviewing and an individually focused HIV prevention intervention) and 12 clinical sites.

Methods

We collected SACF-HIV data as part of a larger cross-project implementation science study (ATN 153). The study sample includes 128 clinicians, community health workers, interventionists, adherence counselors, and other members of the prevention and care team who engage in the implementation of EBPs at 12 HIV prevention and clinical care sites in the USA. We assessed the internal consistency of the SACF-HIV using Cronbach’s alpha and examined the sub-dimensionality of the scale with an exploratory factor analysis. To explore concurrent validity, we examined Pearson’s correlation coefficients between the adapted scale and fit-related sub-scale scores from the Evidence-Based Practice Attitudes Scale-50 (EBPAS-50). Variation in perceptions of fit by intervention was examined using descriptive statistics.

Results

Internal consistency of the adapted scale was strong (α=0.895). Factor analyses revealed two sub-scales—one capturing general insights regarding contextual fit, such as perceptions of skill, experience, and alignment with client needs (loadings ranging from .5 to .84), and a second centering perceptions regarding implementation support, such as resources and administrative support (loadings ranging from .89 to .97). Concurrent validity was supported by statistically significant correlations in the expected direction with EBPAS-50 fit-related sub-scales (r=.33–.35, p ≤ 0.05). SACF-HIV mean fit scores varied by intervention and the difference was statistically significant (2.78 vs. 2.53, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

There are relatively few tools assessing perceptions of contextual fit in HIV clinical settings. These results suggest the 12-item adapted SACF is a reliable, valid global assessment of perceptions of contextual fit and implementation support. The SACF-HIV can be used by practitioners and researchers interested in understanding an implementation context when planning to prepare and support EBP implementation.

Trial registration

TMI ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03681912; YMPH ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03488914
Facilitating conditions for staff’s confidence to enforce school tobacco policies: qualitative analysis from seven European cities
Authors: Linnansaari Anu , Schreuders Michael , Kunst Anton E. ,   SILNE-R -study group, Rimpelä Arja , Kinnunen Jaana M , Lorant Vincent , Grard Adeline , Mélard Nora , Robert Pierre- Olivier , Richter Matthias , Mlinarić Martin , Hoffman Laura , Clancy Luke , Keogan Sheila , Breslin Elisabeth , Hanafin Joan , Federico Bruno , Marandola Diego , Marco Anna di , Nuyts Paulien , Kuipers Mirte , Perelman Julian , Leão Teresa , Alves Joana , Lindfors Pirjo
Published: October 2022

Background

School staff members’ consistent enforcement of school tobacco policies (STPs) is needed to decrease adolescent smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke. Staff’s confidence, indicating their perceived ability to cope with students’ negative responses, explains variations in staff’s STPs enforcement, yet understanding of the determinants for confidence is lacking. We analyzed the conditions in which the staff feel confident in addressing students who violate STPs to support staff’s enforcement. 

Methods

Data consists of 81 semi-structured interviews with the staff members from 26 secondary schools in seven European cities in Belgium, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, and Portugal. In every city, 3–4 staff members (senior management, teachers, supportive staff) in 3–4 schools (academic–vocational, high–low SES area) were interviewed. Transcripts were analyzed with thematic analysis.

Results

When staff felt confident in their ability to prevent, diminish, or handle students’ negative responses, they were more likely to address students on STP violations. The staff was more confident (1) when consistent policy enforcement within school and regarding the wider society ensured staff legitimacy for STPs enforcement, (2) when dialog and mutual familiarity with students allowed the staff to facilitate constructive interaction with STP violators, and (3) when organizational backup structures provided staff collegial support to overcome challenges in the enforcement. These conditions would support consistent enforcement, especially with persistent misbehavers and among the more uncertain staff members.

Conclusions

Our study stresses the need to implement strategies at multiple levels to strengthen staff’s confidence for STP enforcement. To support staff’s legitimacy for enforcement, we suggest reinforcing structures and practices that facilitate consistency in STP enforcement; to support staff’s ability for constructive interaction with STP violators, we suggest strengthening staff’s social and emotional learning; and to support staff’s experience of collegial support, we suggest reinforcing staff’s collective ability to cope with students’ negative responses.
Renal and hepatic dysfunction parameters correlate positively with gender among patients with recurrent malaria cases in Birnin Kebbi, Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Ojo Rotimi Johnson , Jonathan Isaac Gladson , Adams Moses Dele , Gyebi Gideon , Longdet Ishaya Yohanna
Published: October 2022

Background

Simultaneous increase in transaminases and bilirubin is an indicator of hepatic dysfunction in malaria. Malaria-induced hyperbilirubinemia has been associated with acute kidney injury and pathogenesis of cerebral malaria which are significantly associated with mortality in malaria infection. This retrospective study was designed to assess the lipid profile, and hematological, renal and hepatic function data of malaria patients in Sir Yahaya Memorial hospital Birnin Kebbi from 2016 to 2020 who are 18 years and above.

Methods

The data of all patients between 2016 and 2020 who are 18 years and above were collected. Complete data of 370 subjects who met the inclusion criteria which consist of 250 malaria subjects and 120 control subjects were analyzed.

Results

The results showed that females constitute 65.2% of malaria patients with complete records while the remaining 34.8% were males. Age distribution of the patients showed that the infection was more prevalent among 26–45 years and least among 65 years and above. Anemia and thrombocytopenia were prevalent among the female malaria patients compared to the male patients. Liver and kidney function parameters analyzed correlate positively with the gender. The infected male showed higher dysfunction in liver parameters while infected female patients showed significant dysfunction in kidney function parameters and lipid profile.

Conclusions

In conclusion, to prevent the potential widespread of acute renal and hepatic failure with the attendant morbidity and mortality among malaria patients, it is recommended that liver and kidney function tests be mandated for patients with recurring malaria and those with a history of treatment failure in the endemic area to ensure early diagnosis of malarial induced kidney and liver injury among malaria patients.
Behavioral characteristics and parenting styles in chronic habitual hyperfunctional childhood dysphonia
Authors: Ibrahim Alaa Saleh Mohamed Saleh , Amer Ayman Mohamed , Tobar Salwa Salah , Baz Hemmat Mostafa
Published: October 2022

Background

This study aimed to understand the association of child behavior and parenting practices with chronic habitual hyperfunctional childhood dysphonia (CHCD) for a better understanding of the nature of the psychological background of the problem. The study involved 52 Egyptian children aged 4 to 14 years old of both genders; the case group included 26 children diagnosed with (CHCD) based on auditory perceptual assessment using the modified GRBAS scale and laryngeal examination using an indirect laryngoscope, and the control group included 26 healthy children of the same age and gender. All of the children in the study had their histories were taken (demographic data, child vocal behavior history, and family vocal behavior history), the social class determined, SDQ for child behavior, and APQ for parenting practices. 

Results

The findings revealed that children with CHCD were more likely to engage in unhealthy vocal behavior and engage in street/sports activities. At the SDQ, children with CHCD had significantly higher emotional, conduct, and total difficulty scores. The degree of dysphonia was associated with prosocial behavior and emotional symptoms. The two groups’ parenting practices did not significantly differ from one another.

Conclusion

According to our research, CHCD is associated with several behavior problems, such as emotional symptom and conduct issues, but not with parenting practices.
Identifying clinical and demographic characteristic differences between eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic asthma and detecting predictors of eosinophilic asthma among Egyptian asthmatic patients
Authors: Refaat Maged Mohamed , Raafat Riham Hazem , AbuAlia Heba Eid , Sheha Dina Sayed
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Asthma is a heterogenous disease with various phenotypes that is characterized by airway limitation due to bronchospasm and airway inflammation associated with excessive mucus secretion. Eosinophilic asthma subtype is described as a late onset asthma that presents with more severe respiratory symptoms, and with sputum eosinophilia ≥ 3%. In the current study, we aimed to identify the difference in the clinical and demographic characteristics between eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic asthma subtypes and to determine predictors of eosinophilic asthma.

Materials and methods

One hundred bronchial asthma patients with age ≥ 18 years were divided into two groups according to sputum eosinophilia. All patients were subjected to medical history, Asthma Control Test (ACT), spirometry, serum IgE level, skin prick testing (SPT), and nasal endoscopy to detect nasal polyposis and allergic signs.

Results

No statistical difference was found between eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic asthma patients regarding age, gender, and body mass index. Patients with sputum eosinophilia had more severe obstruction by spirometry, and positive SPT to food allergens, pollens, and latex with statistical significance (p values 0.001, 0.016, and 0.017 respectively). Additionally, patients with sputum eosinophilia had lower ACT score, higher serum IgE level and higher serum eosinophil count. Total IgE had the highest diagnostic accuracy for discrimination of sputum eosinophilia among asthma patients. Pollen allergy and the severity of airway obstruction by spirometry were independent predictors of eosinophilic asthma.

Conclusion

Patients with eosinophilic asthma had more severe airway obstruction, lower ACT scores, higher serum IgE level, and serum eosinophil count. Pollen allergy and obstructive pattern by spirometry were independent predictors of eosinophilic asthma.
Analyses and architectural typology of preserved traditional mosques in the old city of Herat in Afghanistan: the case of Quzzat Quarter
Authors: Asim Ghulam Mohammad , Shimizu Hajime
Published: October 2022

The study aims to analyse the architectural typology and determine the period of construction for the preserved traditional mosques of the Quzzat Quarter in the Old City of Herat (known as the Pearl of Khorasan). Twenty-nine mosques are located in the area, three of which are modern and 26 are traditional. Twelve out of the 26 traditional mosques still exist and have preserved their traditional landscape. Using analogy to analyse water cisterns and mosques, we determine when each mosque was developed and establish the period of development for each structure. Further analyses are carried out on the edifices’ architectural details. Architectural analyses and mosque typologies suggest that five buildings were built before the Timurid dynasty; two were built during the Timurid dynasty (1370−1507 CE); and one was built after the Timurid dynasty. Two mosques incorporating elements from different periods are counted as exceptions, and the remaining two are considered to have been built during transitional periods.
Failure analysis of weld cracking of gas gathering pipeline in dewatering station
Authors: Chen Yong , Xie Yi , Wang Wenjing , Li Jichuan
Published: October 2022

There are a lot of welded joints in the shale gas collection pipeline, so the failure risk of the shale gas production line is very high. A leak has occurred in the gas collection pipeline of a dewatering station, and in order to find out the causes of failure and provide technical support for safe shale gas transmission, macroscopic analysis, non-destructive testing (X-ray flaw detection), mechanical properties, and metallurgical analysis were performed on the failed pipe section, and CFD method was used to further analyze the failure mechanism of the ring weld pipe. The macroscopic analysis yielded the weld height is significantly greater than the standard minimum requirement. Non-destructive testing showed a large number of cracks with varying degrees of extension along the weld circumference on the inner surface of the weld. The chemical composition and mechanical properties of the pipe and the weld met the requirements. The microstructure of the base metal met the standard. There are no inclusions, holes, unfused areas, or other welding defects in the weld zone. The cracks originate from the weld fusion zone, and there are a large number of intergranular microcracks. CFD simulation results show that although the stress concentration caused by the height of the weld does not directly lead to weld cracking, under the influence of the stress concentration, cracks tend to sprout at the coarse grain organization of the fusion zone on the inner surface of the weld and can easily propagate throughout the weld and pipe wall thickness, leading to crack damage. Several suggestions to prevent such a failure were proposed to avoid the occurrence of similar accidents.
Multiscale recurrent-guided denoising network for distributed acoustic sensing-vertical seismic profile background noise attenuation
Authors: Cheng Ming , Lu Shaoping , Dong Xintong , Zhong Tie
Published: October 2022

In recent years, distributed optical fiber acoustic sensing (DAS) has emerged as a novel seismic acquisition technique. Compared with conventional hydrophones and geophones of microelectromechanical systems, DAS has an advantage in terms of acquisition geometry, such as low-cost and high-density observations. However, the collected DAS records always suffer from various types of noise, which poses challenges for subsequent processing. Thus, deep learning-based solutions have addressed the attenuation of seismic background noise. Denoising networks can provide excellent denoising results. Nonetheless, the architectures of these networks are relatively simple, which may result in degeneration when confronted with the complex DAS background noise. To effectively attenuate complex noise, a novel multiscale network called recurrent-guided self-enhanced attention network (RGSA-Net) is developed for complex seismic data processing. Specifically, the backbone of RGSA-Net uses a conventional feedforward neural network to preliminarily extract the potential features. Meanwhile, multiscale modules, inspired by the recurrent-guided scheme, are used to enhance the contour information. On this basis, a self-enhanced attention module is applied to fuse the multiscale features and further reinforce the effective information, thereby improving the noise attenuation capability. Synthetic and field experiments demonstrate that RGSA-Net indicates promise in complex noise attenuation and weak upgoing signal recovery.
The Long-Term Outcome of Laparoscopic Resection for Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma Compared with the Open Approach: A Real-World Multicentric Analysis
Authors: Qin Tingting , Wang Min , Zhang Hang , Li Jingdong , Deng Xiaxing , Zhang Yuhua , Zhao Wenxing , Fan Ying , Li Dewei , Chen Xuemin , Feng Yechen , Zhu Siwei , Xing Zhongqiang , Yu Guangsheng , Xu Jian , Xie Junjie , Dou Changwei , Ma Hongqin , Liu Gangshan , Shao Yue , Chen Weibo , Xu Simiao , Liu Jun , Liu Jianhua , Yin Xinmin , Qin Renyi ,   Minimally Invasive Pancreas Treatment Group in the Pancreatic Disease Branch of China’s International Exchange and Promotion Association for Medicine and Healthcare
Published: October 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic surgery (LS) and open surgery (OP) for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) using a large real-world dataset in China.

Methods

Data of patients with PHC who underwent LS and OP from January 2013 to October 2018, across 10 centers in China, were extracted from medical records. A comparative analysis was performed before and after propensity score matching (PSM) in the LS and OP groups and within the study subgroups. The Cox proportional hazards mixed-effects model was applied to estimate the risk factors for mortality, with center and year of operation as random effects.

Results

A total of 467 patients with PHC were included, of whom 161 underwent LS and 306 underwent OP. Postoperative morbidity, such as hemorrhage, biliary fistula, abdominal abscess, and hepatic insufficiency, was similar between the LS and OP groups. The median overall survival (OS) was longer in the LS group than in the OP group (NA vs. 22 months; hazard ratio [HR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.39, p = 0.024). Among the matched datasets, OS was comparable between the LS and OP groups (NA vs. 35 months; HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.77–1.26, p = 0.915). The mixed-effect model identified that the surgical method was not associated with long-term outcomes and that LS and OP provided similar oncological outcomes.

Conclusions

Considering the comparable long-term prognosis and short-term outcomes of LS and OP, LS could be a technically feasible surgical method for PHC patients with all Bismuth–Corlett types of PHC.
Anchoring on Historical Round Number Reference Points: Evidence from Durable Goods Resale Prices
Authors: Wiltermuth Scott S. , Gubler Timothy , Pierce Lamar
Published: October 2022

This paper examines how people price the resale of durable goods in systematically biased ways. We show across four studies that the anchoring effect of durable goods’ prior sales prices on subsequent valuations is discontinuous at psychologically salient round number reference points (e.g., $10,000 increments) because these numbers create qualitative differences in how people perceive values below them versus values at/above them. Resellers set disproportionately larger subsequent prices when previous prices move from just below round number thresholds (e.g., $349,000) to those at or just above these thresholds (e.g., $351,000). The findings show that buyers who pay a price just below a round number, therefore, may sacrifice money because they receive disproportionately less when reselling the good. Market forces only partially attenuate this pricing bias, but valuator experience seems to play a moderating role. Archival data show that home buyers who previously paid just under a $10,000 reference point subsequently listed their homes for about 1.8% (over $3,700) less on average than did buyers selling comparable homes who previously paid at or above a round number threshold. This drop is observable controlling for home characteristics and the general relationship between previous and current prices. Three experimental studies looking at housing and used car markets replicate these findings, highlight the mechanism, and increase confidence in causality. Market mechanisms and the negotiation process attenuate discontinuities by about 30%, but lower initial listing prices persist to final sales prices. We find additional weak evidence suggesting that valuator experience may attenuate intergenerational pricing bias.

Conflict of Interest: This manuscript was submitted, revised, and accepted prior to the nomination and appointment of Lamar Pierce as Editor-in-Chief.

Funding: This project was supported by the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business Behavioral Laboratory.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2022.1632 .
The One vs. The Many
Authors: Everhart D. T.
Published: October 2022

This paper looks at a recent exchange concerning the human nature of Christ and the Christological anthropology of Thomas F. Torrance. In this exchange, Oliver Crisp and Christopher Woznicki offer competing readings of Torrance’s Christological anthropology. Crisp argues for a concretist understanding of Christ’s human nature while Woznicki offers an abstractist metaphysic. This paper will look at this exchange in conversation with Torrance’s work and recent work in group ontology, offering a third way forward between the impasse of Crisp’s concretism and Woznicki’s abstractism which I call communal participation and argue is more in line with Torrance’s own understanding.

Keywords: Christological anthropology; human nature; group ontology; participation; vicarious humanity; T. F. Torrance
Transubstantiation
Authors: Sijuwade Joshua
Published: October 2022

This article aims to provide an intelligible explication of the doctrine of Transubstantiation. A model of this doctrine is formulated within the formal, neo-Aristotelian metaphysical and ontological framework of Jonathan Lowe, termed Serious Essentialism and the Four-Category Ontology. Formulating the doctrine of Transubstantiation within this metaphysical and ontological framework will enable it to be explicated in a clear and consistent manner, and the oft-raised intelligibility question against it can be answered.
Toward an African Theory of the Atonement
Authors: Lougheed Kirk
Published: October 2022

Contemporary philosophy of religion and analytic theology has recently experienced a revival regarding the nature of the Christian Atonement. The Kaleidoscope theory of the atonement says that the major theories such as Christus Victor, Satisfaction, Penal Substitution, and Moral Exemplar each capture an important aspect of the significance of the atonement. When taken together, they offer a fuller picture of the atonement than they do as individual theories. My goal is to add to the Kaleidoscope theory by drawing on insights from the African philosophical tradition. I argue that there are ideas to be found in the African communitarian ethic of ubuntu that can be mined to help deepen our understanding of the atonement. I thus seek to widen the kaleidoscope theory of the atonement to include important African perspectives.
For all the Blessings of this Life
Authors: Vicens Leigh
Published: October 2022

I argue, first, against the idea that Christian thanksgiving is about counting one’s blessings, or finding something specific in every circumstance which is intended by God for one’s own good. For we cannot know how God specifically intended to benefit us in most circumstances, and such knowledge is required for blessings-counting; and the New Testament models a different kind of thanksgiving which makes more sense in light of Christian theology. I also argue against the conception of Christian gratitude as a positive (pleasant-feeling) emotion, given the fallen nature of the world; instead, it must be a mixed emotion, combining a pleasant-feeling anticipatory joy over God’s action of world-salvation with unpleasant feelings such as dissatisfaction, restlessness, or yearning.
What is the Best Jewish Account of the Grounds of Worship of God?
Authors: Harris Michael J.
Published: October 2022

This paper brings contemporary debate in analytic philosophy of religion regarding the notion of worship into conversation with Jewish sources and attempts to identify the most promising philosophical grounds for a Jewish account of the putative obligatoriness of worship. Some philosophers have recently debated the notion of worship, focusing in particular on the claim that human beings have an obligation to worship God and on whether and how such an obligation might be adequately grounded. I first canvass the major bases for worshipping God that have featured in this debate. I then turn to some relevant liturgical and philosophical sources of Jewish tradition, identifying grounds for the obligatoriness of (exclusively) worshipping God that have been advanced in those sources. I next consider which grounds of the putative obligatoriness of worship are the most promising for a Jewish account in terms of both philosophical cogency and rootedness in Jewish tradition. I argue that a version of a divine command grounding of prayer in a Soloveitchikian mode is both well-rooted in Judaism and also plausibly surmounts philosophical objections to divine command accounts. In the final section, I briefly raise the issue of whether the concept of worship is truly well-suited to a Jewish context, suggesting that the rich Hebrew notions of avodah and tefillah are perhaps more appropriate in articulating a fully adequate Jewish understanding of the pertinent issues. In particular, I argue that these notions fit well with the Soloveitchikian divine command grounding of the obligation to worship God.
Descartes on Necessity and the Laws of Nature
Authors: Rockwood Nathan
Published: October 2022

This paper is on Descartes’ account of modality and, in particular, his account of the necessity of the laws of nature. He famously argues that the necessity of the “eternal truths” of logic and mathematics depends on God’s will. Here I suggest he has the same view about the necessity of the laws of nature. Further, I argue, this is a plausible theory of laws. For philosophers often talk about something being nomologically or physically necessary because of the laws of nature, but this necessity is thought to be metaphysically contingent. However, they struggle to explain how the laws could be genuinely necessary while being metaphysically contingent. The chief advantage of Descartes view, I argue, is that God’s will can plausibly explain both the necessity of the laws (because God made them necessary) and the contingency of the laws (because God could have done otherwise). So, Descartes’ theistic account of laws provides a plausible explanation, perhaps the best explanation, of the contingent-necessity of laws of nature.
Inverse eigenvalue and related problems for hollow matrices described by graphs
Authors: Dahlgren F. Scott , Gershkoff Zachary , Hogben Leslie , Motlaghian Sara , Young Derek
Published: October 2022

A hollow matrix described by a graph $G$ is a real symmetric matrix having all diagonal entries equal to zero and with the off-diagonal entries governed by the adjacencies in $G$. For a given graph $G$, the determination of all possible spectra of matrices associated with $G$ is the hollow inverse eigenvalue problem for $G$. Solutions to the hollow inverse eigenvalue problems for paths and complete bipartite graphs are presented. Results for related subproblems such as possible ordered multiplicity lists, maximum multiplicity of an eigenvalue, and minimum number of distinct eigenvalues are presented for additional families of graphs.
Interaction of Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus with the biofilm-forming Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Lenchenko Ekaterina , Lenchenko Svyatoslav , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Kuznetsova Olga , Ibragimova Alfia
Published: October 2022

Background and Aim: The resistance of susceptible fish populations and the adaptive potential of heterogeneous biofilms, which cause multiple antibacterial resistance and long-term persistence of microorganisms, mediate the development and outcome of the infectious process. The study of the fish immunological parameters in interaction with biofilm-forming bacteria is of practical importance for assessing the stability of the homeostasis of the fish. This study aimed to determine the immunobiological parameters of Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus when interacting with biofilm-forming bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila.

Materials and Methods: Clinically healthy fish C. carpio L. (Linnaeus, 1758) of both sexes, aged 4 years, and weighing 1.0–1.5 kg (n = 10), were used in this study. The fish were taken from the pond of the VNIIR experimental base in the period of 2020–2022. The standard method was employed to determine the phagocytic activity of blood cells, the total redox activity of neutrophils, and the bactericidal activity of blood serum.

Results: After 24–48 h of cultivation in nutrient broth, the implementation of the processes of intercellular communication of bacteria had common patterns of formation of the heterogeneous structure of biofilms. Moreover, analyzing the optical density indices (density, D), it was observed that A. hydrophila was a strong producer of biofilms, as the optical density of the sample (density of sample, Ds) exceeded the optical density of the control (density of control, Dc) by more than 4 times (D = 0.464 ± 0.07). The ratio of the average number of microorganisms attached to the surface of one erythrocyte (average adhesion index) and the percentage (%) of erythrocytes having bacteria on their surface (adhesion coefficient [AC]) was 14.05 ± 0.72, and the adhesion index, AI was ≥4.00, indicating A. hydrophila to be highly adhesive. In addition, the AC of erythrocytes having bacteria on the surface was 14.05% ± 0.72%. A direct correlation was established (R2 = 0.94) between the AC (14.05% ± 0.11%–13.29% ± 0.08%) and the phagocytic index (11.3% ± 0.29%–32.0% ± 0.8%). The indicators of spontaneous nitro blue tetrazolium were 103.20 ± 11.70 when estimating the total redox activity of neutrophils. The optical density increased to 182.10 ± 21.12 with the addition of 20.0 μL of A. hydrophila bacteria (1 billion/mL) and the activity of neutrophils also increased.

Conclusion: Among the markers of homeostasis stability, immunological indicators most fully reflect the mechanisms of initiation, development, and outcome of the infectious process mediated by the interaction of adhesive molecules of multicellular eukaryotes and adhesives of infectious disease pathogens. The research will contribute to further understanding the potential mechanism of quorum-sensing molecules and the search for new anti-adhesive drugs that reduce the formation of biofilms.
RAPD markers in the discrimination of genetic variability in ornamental peppers
Authors: Pereira dos santos Rodrigues Cristine Agrine , Monteiro do Rêgo Mailson , Dos Santos Pessoa Angela Maria , da Silva Sousa Elisandra , Ramalho do Rêgo Elizanilda
Published: October 2022

Genetic variability in pepper genotypes has been widely assessed using phenotypic traits and molecular markers, which are essential to estimate the genetic divergence of the species and thus recommend parental individuals for breeding programs. In this scenario, this study aimed to evaluate the genetic divergence between ornamental pepper accessions (C. annuum L.) using RAPD molecular markers. Seventeen ornamental pepper accessions and one plant of the commercial cultivar Calypso were used in the study. The accessions were subjected to RAPD analysis with 15 primers. The analysis revealed high variability between the accessions and evidenced that accessions UFPB-355 and UFPB-348 were the most dissimilar, whereas accessions UFPB- 443 and UFPB-77.3 were the most similar. The accessions were grouped into three different groups, evidencing their genetic divergence The accessions characterized in this study are promising and can be used in future pepper breeding programs due to their high genetic variability. Moreover, the results obtained in this studyallow recommending accessions UFPB-45, UFPB-77.3, UFPB-137, UFPB-356, and UFPB- 443 as parent individualssince they are the most divergent. Finally, the RAPD markers were highly sensitive in driscriminating pepperaccessions and should be used as an auxiliary tool for choosing parents.r a divergência genética na espécie e recomendar indivíduos parentais para programas de melhoramento. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a divergência genética entre acessos de pimenta ornamental ( C. annuumL.) usando marcadores moleculares RAPD. Foram utilizados 17 acessos de pimenta ornamental e uma planta da cultivar comercial Calypso. Os acessos foram submetidos à análise de RAPD, com 15 primers. A análise revelou grande variabilidade entre os acessos. Os resultados evidenciaram que os acessos UFPB-355 e UFPB-348 são os mais dissimilares, enquanto os acessos UFPB-443 e UFPB-77.3 são os mais semelhantes. Os acessos foram agrupados em três grupos, evidenciando a divergência genética entre eles. Os acessos caracterizados neste estudo são promissores e podem ser utilizados em futuros programas de melhoramento de pimenta devido à alta variabilidade genética detectada. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo permitiram indicar, como indivíduos parentais, os acessos UFPB-45, UFPB-77.3, UFPB-137, UFPB-356 e UFPB-443,
Engaging the Houston Community in Research: An Early Case Study of a Community Engagement Core in the University of Houston’s HEALTH Center for Addictions Research and Cancer Prevention
Authors: Carter Brian , Reitzel Lorraine , Chen Tzuan , Woodard LeChauncy , Obasi Ezemenari
Published: October 2022

Objective: The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities-funded U54 Research Center at the University of Houston addresses disparate racial/ethnic health outcomes related to cancer and substance abuse. Of its 4 cores, the Community Engagement Core involves the impacted community in affiliated research. Strategies include implementing community advisory boards, assisting with study design and execution, maintaining a social media presence, and publishing health-related videos for the community. We examine the early effectiveness of these strategies. Methods: Data collection included surveying investigators and community advisory board members and monitoring traffic to videos and social media posts. Results: On a Likert scale survey of investigators (4 = “agree” and 5 = “strongly agree”), the mean rating for a prompt expressing satisfaction with services received was 4.67 (SD = 0.52; N = 6). On a Likert scale survey of community advisory board members, the mean rating for a prompt expressing belief that feedback was taken seriously was 5.00 (SD = 0.00; N = 9). Conclusions: The Community Engagement Core is building trusting relationships between researchers and community members. We discuss lessons learned that may inform both our growth and others’ efforts to implement community-engaged research.
Regional and Racial Trends in US Prostate Cancer Screening
Authors: Ahmed Rashid , Williamson Mark , Bahri Saad , Hamid Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Objective: In this study, we examined whether self-reported prostate cancer screening rates differed by ethnicity. Methods: We used 2014 and 2018 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) to determine if self-reported screening rates differed by ethnicity and year, while we controlled for geographic, demographic, and health factors. We also investigated factors that may influence screening rates. Results: Self-reported screening rates decreased between 2014 and 2018, both overall and by each ethnicity. Blacks had significantly higher odds of reporting a PSA test than Whites (OR = 1.13 ± 0.01 in 2014; 1.14 ± 0.01 in 2018); all other group had lower odds than Whites. By ethnicity, only Blacks and Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders had higher odds of being asked the questions than Whites; all other groups had lower odds. Overall screening rates were positively correlated with prostate cancer incidence rates by state but not for any racial group individually. Conclusions: Self-reported PSA test rates are declining, are associated with PSA test knowledge, are less likely in non-black minorities, and may be influenced by healthcare discussions and state-level incidence rates
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of different measures to control Ascochyta blight in chickpea
Authors: Naseer Saima , Ali Yasir , Mustafa Azher , Anwar shah Javed , Saeed Saba , Aatif Hafiz Muhammad , Ahmad Salman , Yousaf Muhammad Jawwad , Shakoor Abdul , Ramzan Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Ascochyta blight, an infection caused by Ascochyta rabiei is a destructive disease in many chickpea growing regions and it caused significant yield losses. To minimize the impact of Ascochyta blight, 5 fungicides viz., Aliette, Cabrio Top, Thiovit Jet, Cymoxanil and Difenoconazole, 5 plants extracts namely Azadirachta indica, Azadirachta azedarach, Datura stramonium, Chenopodium album and Allium sativum L. and two strains T-22 and E58 of bio-control agents (BCAs) Trichoderma viride and Aspergillus flavus were evaluated on the growth of A. rabiei under in vitro conditions by using the food poison technique. The colony growth of Ascochyta rabiei was inhibited at all concentrations of fungicides @ 0.07, 0.15, 0.21%, plants extracts @ 4, 6, 9% and bio-control agents @ 105, 106 and 107 conidia ml-1 respectively. Among all applied treatments, maximum inhibition colony growth of pathogen was recorded in the case of Aliette (83.4%), followed by Cabrio Top (74.3%), Azadirachta indica (50.3%) and Trichoderma viride (60.3%) at their high concentrations. Field trials showed that Aliette and Cabario Top significantly reduced the disease severity to 10 % and 24% respectively, followed by Azadirachta indica and Allium sativum which reduced the disease severity to 40% and 50% respectively. Bio-control agent Trichoderma viride proved less effective in controlling Ascochyta bight severity under field conditions. The present study showed that systemic and sulphur containing fungicides, plant extracts and bio-control agents (BCAs) have the potential to control Ascochyta blight in both in vitro and in vivo conditions.
Usability and user experience evaluation of Virtual Integrated Patient
Authors: Anubharath Pabba , Chui Yoon Ping , Sng Judy , Zhu Lixia , Tham Kai , Lee Edmund
Published: October 2022

Most existing Virtual Patients utilize simplistic, predictable, and prescriptive approaches that limit deductive learning and the development of decision-making skills for medical students. We have designed a chat-based virtual patient for performing patient interviews, physical examinations, and investigations to help medical students develop reasoning skills. In this paper, we present results from a two-part study. In the first part, we conducted a usability evaluation with seven medical students and six clinicians. The objectives of the usability evaluation was to determine how VIP’s user interface and its features affect the usability (efficiency, effectiveness and learnability) as well as the general subjective user experience associated with the use of system. Each participant completed a user experience, system usability scale, and a self-prepared survey form. A significant difference was seen between the results of students and tutors. Due to a lack of training data, the chatbot model predicted incorrect responses that led participants to feel frustrated. In the second part of study, we have retrained the chatbot model using the feedback and designed an error correction approach and engaged seven new medical students to test the chatbot intensively — a total of 2169 user interactions were performed with the chatbot. Of that, 77.4% were properly answered by the bot, 10.8 % were out-of-domain concepts, 8.6 % were unknown concepts (Li et al., 2018), 3.3 % were corrected using the error correction approach designed.
The value of student attendance at face-to-face classes, as part of a blended learning experience
Authors: Clark Charlotte , Post Ger
Published: October 2022

eLearning can create more flexibility for students; more efficiently utilise infrastructure; and can provide high-quality learning at scale. We have investigated perceived value and learning gains associated with online (eLearning) and face-to-face (f2f) components of a blended learning experience. We hypothesised that individual student preference for eLearning and f2f learning would be variable but that participation in f2f learning opportunities would enhance student learning. Using a design-based research approach, we have evaluated blended learning with interactive eLearning materials, and a collaborative, active f2f class. We have combined qualitative evaluation survey data and quantitative f2f attendance data and student grades. Students overwhelmingly value active learning, both within eLearning materials and f2f classes. Final marks positively correlate with the number of f2f classes students attend. Analysis of a subset of intended learning outcomes (ILOs) shows that students who access the eLearning materials independently and students who attend the f2f class perform equally-well in ILO-related assessment tasks; however, students are more likely to choose an assessment task directly-related to a class they have attended. We suggest that attendance at f2f classes as part of a blended learning experience is beneficial however students can sufficiently obtain selected ILOs from engaging eLearning materials.
Using blogs to develop and determine graduate competencies in an undergraduate business subject
Authors: Deneen Christopher , Ali Irshad , Byard Kevin , Kommunuri John
Published: October 2022

Graduate competencies are increasingly in demand from professional sectors, but with insufficient response from professional degree programs. This study examines the use of blogs as assessment in a first-year Bachelor of Business program. Three hundred and nine students responded to an online questionnaire exploring their perceptions of blog as a learning and assessment tool. Of particular focus were students' perceptions on ease of use, benefit and impact on the recognized graduate competency of writing skills. A regression model was applied to data analys in association between perception of improvement in the quality and quantity of the students' work (Q&Q) and several other variables. Results suggest a significant and complex relationship between participants' perception of the flexibility and benefit of the blog and three areas relevant to writing skills: self-reported improvement in writing, increased ownership of learning, and development of reflective skills. Implications for further research and practice are discussed.
Do learning technologies contribute to reduce student drop- out? - A systematic review
Authors: Lassesen Berit , Stenalt Maria Hvid , Rossen Dorte Sidelmann , Bager-Elsborg Anna
Published: October 2022

As technology is increasingly being used for teaching and learning in higher education, it is important to examine what tangible educational gains are being achieved. Reducing drop-out rates have been proposed as one possible beneficial effect of the use of learning technologies. It is unclear, however, whether the available evidence supports such claims. The aim of this study was to explore whether learning technologies applied in higher education contexts can contribute to reduce student drop-out rates, and under which circumstances do learning technologies influence drop-out? Method: Two independent searches were conducted in relevant databases; evaluated full-texts, quality rated the included studies, and synthesized the findings. Results: A total of 18 peer-reviewed studies were included. Based on the quality assessment, 10 studies were eligible to extended data synthesis. The assertion that learning technologies in higher education contribute to reduce student drop-out is only partly supported. Positive findings were in particular found in relation to pedagogical issues, e.g., individualized personal support. This is in line with previous research, indicating that it is not the technology itself, but how the technology is used pedagogically that matter to students.
Practices and Challenges in a Flipped EFL Writing Classroom
Authors: Lee Su Ping , Verezub Elena , Adi Badiozaman Ida Fatimawati
Published: October 2022

Despite the widespread use of flipped teaching across educational disciplines, there is limited understanding on its use in the teaching and learning of English as a second language (ESL) writing in intensive English (IE) programmes for pre-university students. Such programmes face at least three constraints: the students’ low English proficiency, the shortage of time to bridge the English gap, and the necessity for academic English. This paper aims to explore practices and challenges of a flipped EFL writing classroom. In total, 38 students were given flipped writing classroom training. The participants watched video lectures on academic writing designed for the purpose of this study before the class, and then participated in interactive in-class learning activities. The study results revealed that the students performed the writing tasks significantly better in the post-test. The interviews with students showed that students favoured the greater time preparation, the immediate feedback, the increased opportunity to practise and interact, as well as the higher level of motivation and self-efficacy.
Data Analytics for Student Profiling and Academic Counselling
Authors: Li Jizhi , Low Wai Ping , Thiagarajan Lokesh Bheema , Peh Lu Chang
Published: October 2022

Data analytics can be used by universitiesstudent and learning data. By leveraging on data analytics and dashboards, universities and schools can become more proactive in profiling students and anticipating their needs, personalizing approaches to supporting students in academic distress and optimizing the allocation of university’s resources to efficiently and effectively counsel these students. In this paper, we outline the analytics framework that can be used on student data to derive insights, to readily observe and predict the students’ academic progression and performance, to characterise the academic risk of the student, and to identify the at-risk students at an early stage. With the early alert system in place, these students can then be counselled and rendered student support to be lifted out of the at-risk zone.
Profiling Language Learners in the Big Data Era
Authors: Ocaña Mauro , Khosravi Hassan , Bakharia Aneesha
Published: October 2022

The educational data revolution has empowered universities and educational institutes with rich data on their students, including information on their academic data (e.g., program completion, course enrolment, grades), learning activities (e.g., learning materials reviewed, discussion forum interactions, learning videos watched, projects conducted), learning process (i.e., time, place, path or pace of learning activities), learning experience (e.g., reflections, views, preferences) and assessment results. In this paper, we apply clustering to profile students from one of the largest Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in the field of Second Language Learning. We first analyse the profiles, revealing the diversity among students taking the same course. We then, referring to the results of our analysis, discuss how profiling as a tool can be utilised to identify at-risk students, improve course design and delivery, provide targeted teaching practices, compare and contrast different offerings to evaluate interventions, develop policy, and improve self-regulation in students. The findings have implications for the fields of personalised learning and differentiated instruction.