bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ritual Performance as Gradual Recognition: Sere Bissu Maggiriq Dance of South Sulawesi Indonesia
Authors: Akhmar Andi Muhammad , Muhammad Harry Isra , Hasyim Muhammad , Rahman Fathu
Published: November 2023

This article delves into the intersection of performance and recognition by taking an example from Sere Bissu Maggiriq (SBM) dance, a self-stabbing ritual performance of the transvestite shaman in South Sulawesi called bissu. Drawing on performance theory that mediates the distinction between ritual and performance, and recognition theory that emphasizes the intersubjective relation, we argue that SBM serves as a means for the bissu to be gradually recognized in the wider public. First, SBM is becoming the most noticeable way for the bissu to show their magic, beauty and invulnerable body in the face of marginalization they have experienced caused by cultural rationalization driven by modern science and technology that render the bissu’s rituals and practices irrelevant. Second, SBM represents the bissu subject position, representing the interchangeability of femininity and masculinity within the ritual performance, which challenges the hegemony of gender construction that only recognize male and female identities. Third, the shift of SBM from ritual to ritual performance has made the bissu more visible, and thereby provides an entry point for the wider public to gradually recognize the bissu subject position as androgynous beings. Fourth, due to its growing popularity, SBM also serves as a means of survival for the bissu, as it becomes a portal for them to establish a new generation.
Self-Assessment and Learning Outcome Evaluation of Interior Architecture Students Using Flipped Versus Traditional Classroom Education Models
Authors: Ozenen Gurkan
Published: November 2023

The aim of this present study is to determine the self-evaluation of learning outcomes of students using flipped classroom versus traditional learning education models in the senior year (fourth year) interior architecture students. This research was conducted for one full semester of senior year interior architecture graduate students, which takes 14-weeks of a time period each lasted 6 hr of a week which makes a total of 84 hr for a semester. Two different education models were used for a one-semester course for a total number of 112 students. The students were all informed about flipped and traditional educational models prior to the class selection. The groups were designated by the students’ education model choice. Class A was 57 students who attended to the flipped classroom model and Class B were 55 students who attended to the traditional lecture-based education Both courses have the same credit. The GPA scores of flipped classroom attendees were found to be higher than the traditional class GPA score rates. The student evaluation forms were determined to be better in the flipped classroom. The change of students to using flipped classroom from the traditional method leads to a student-centered education instead of teacher-centered education.
The Impact of Virtual Society on Social Capital Formation: A Comparative Analysis of Facebook and WhatsApp
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Wang Dake , Hussain Talib , Li Benqian
Published: November 2023

This study aims to investigate the role of virtual society in generating social capital, taking into account the challenges associated with new technologies and social arrangements. The study utilizes descriptive analysis and partial least squares path modeling to analyze participant data. The technology acceptance model is employed to assess perceptions of virtual society platforms, specifically Facebook and WhatsApp, in terms of ease of use and value. he study reveals a significant positive relationship between virtual society and the development of social capital. Positive attitudes toward virtual society platforms are associated with increased social capital, particularly in terms of bridging and bonding. The relationship is moderated by the amount of time spent on social networking sites. Limitations of the study include its focus on specific platforms and reliance on self-reported data. Future research can explore additional platforms and employ diverse data collection methods to enhance the understanding of virtual society and social capital formation. This study emphasizes the importance of online attachment and connection for the formation of social capital. The findings inform policy-making and decision-making in organizations by highlighting the role of virtual society platforms in fostering social capital. This research contributes to the understanding of the relationship between virtual society and social capital, shedding light on collaboration patterns and technology reliance in virtual environments. The study’s originality lies in its examination of Facebook and WhatsApp as platforms and the exploration of the moderation effect of time spent on social networking sites. The findings offer valuable insights for academia and practical applications.
Depressive Symptoms and Their Mechanisms: An Investigation of Long-Term Patterns of Interaction Through a Panel-Network Approach
Authors: Hoffart Asle , Skjerdingstad Nora , Freichel René , Mansueto Alessandra C. , Johnson Sverre Urnes , Epskamp Sacha , Ebrahimi Omid V.
Published: November 2023

The dynamic interaction between depressive symptoms, mechanisms proposed in the metacognitive-therapy model, and loneliness across a 9-month period was investigated. Four data waves 2 months apart were delivered by a representative population sample of 4,361 participants during the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway. Networks were estimated using the newly developed panel graphical vector-autoregression method. In the temporal network, use of substance to cope with negative feelings or thoughts positively predicted threat monitoring and depressed mood. In turn, threat monitoring positively predicted suicidal ideation. Metacognitive beliefs that thoughts and feelings are dangerous positively predicted anhedonia. Suicidal ideation positively predicted sleep problems and worthlessness. Loneliness was positively predicted by depressed mood. In turn, more loneliness predicted more control of emotions. The findings point at the theory-derived variables, threat monitoring, beliefs that thoughts and feelings are dangerous, and use of substance to cope, as potential targets for intervention to alleviate long-term depressive symptoms.
Impact of State Laws on Dispensing Opioid Prescriptions Following Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Procedures: A Retrospective Large National Database Study
Authors: Godil Jamila , Rapp Katrina , Smith Spencer , Ryu Won Hyung A. , Yoo Jung U.
Published: November 2023

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort Study.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the effect of state legislation on prescribing behavior after a commonly performed spinal procedure, posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF).

Methods

Two cohorts of patients from the Pearl Diver Database were created based on patients who underwent PLIF surgery in 2014-15 and 2018-19. We compared opioid prescription rates and morphine-milli-equivalent (MME) between states with and without prescription legislation.

Results

We analyzed 50 958 PLIF patients from 2014-15 and 46 751 patients from 2018-19. Among them, 38 states passed opioid prescription laws in 2016-2017, while 12 states did not. The percentage of patients receiving opioid prescriptions within 365 days post-surgery remained similar in both time periods (49% in 2014-15 and 48% in 2018-2019). This trend was consistent across states with and without prescription legislation (50% vs 48% in 2014-2015, and similar in 2018-19). Opioid prescription quantity significantly decreased in all states between 2014-15 and 2018-19. In states with legislation, average MME dropped from 9198 ± 21 002 to 4932 ± 13 213 (46.4% decrease), and in states without legislation, it decreased from 9175 ± 21 032 to 4994 ± 11 687 (45.6% decrease). However, these differences were not statistically significant ( P = .7985).

Conclusion

From 2014 to 2018, there was a significant decrease in the number of opioids prescribed after PLIF. However, this decrease occurred irrespective of state legislation on prescribing practices being passed. We believe the reduction in opioids prescribed was due to increased awareness surrounding the dangers of opioids among physicians.
Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Resources for Infectious Diseases in Sub-Saharan African Hospitals Caring for Children
Authors: Tarun Samiksha , Abebe Workeabeba , Mahida Maitry , Saiman Lisa , James Wilmot , LaRussa Philip , Stanberry Lawrence R.
Published: November 2023

Objective. The Children’s Hospitals in Africa Mapping Project survey was developed and implemented to assess the readiness of hospitals in sub-Saharan African to respond to emergencies, epidemics, and pandemics affecting children. Methods. This sub-study analyzed 56 survey questions that characterized the hospitals and assessed resources for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of community-acquired infections and healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Results. Twenty-four sites were recruited and 20 (from 15 countries) completed the survey in 2018 to 2019. Overall, 90% to 100% of sites reported that diagnostic assays were available for malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV. Periodic shortages of antibiotics, antimalarial drugs, and vaccines were reported by 45%, 25%, and 20% of sites, respectively. Sites reported formal programs for infection prevention and control (79%), monitoring HAIs (17%), and antimicrobial stewardship (53%). Conclusions. Opportunities to improve care for hospitalized African children were identified. These included resources for HAI surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship which can facilitate epidemic and pandemic preparedness.
Universal Screening for SARS-CoV-2 in Obstetric Care: Clinical Characteristics and Maternofetal Outcomes in a Latin American High-Complexity Unit
Authors: Escobar Vidarte María Fernanda , Echavarria Maria Paula , Carvajal Javier Andrés , Albornoz Ludwig Luis , Peña-Zarate Evelyn E. , Libreros Laura , Nasner Daniela , Vélez Juan Diego
Published: November 2023

The asymptomatic population's role in COVID-19 transmission poses challenges for control efforts. Pregnant women are susceptible to severe manifestations, increasing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This study describes the clinical characteristics, maternal and fetal outcomes, and our experience in universal severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) screening of pregnant women admitted to a high-complexity obstetric unit in Latin America. Of 568 pregnant women tested for SARS-CoV-2, 23 obtained a positive result. Among these patients, 17% had symptoms at admission, and 0.2% reported an epidemiological link. Pregnant women with positive were associated with an increased risk of eclampsia (16.7% vs 4.9%, P = .014) and acute respiratory distress (16.7% vs 4.9%, P = .014). In this group, 4 patients developed maternal near misses, and no maternal deaths were noted. Two early perinatal deaths occurred in the positive SARS-CoV-2 test group (2, 9.5% vs 17, 4.1%, P = .235). The high prevalence of asymptomatic pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 and the adverse outcomes for those infected during pregnancy highlights the importance of universal screening upon hospital admission. This approach streamlines risk management, and enhances service structure, resource allocation, care pathways, patient management, follow-up, and overall outcomes.
Differences in Retinal and Choroidal Microvasculature and Structure in Dementia With Lewy Bodies Compared With Normal Cognition
Authors: Joseph Suzanna , Robbins Cason B. , Allen Ariana , Haystead Alice , Hemesath Angela , Kundu Anita , Ma Justin P. , Johnson Kim G. , Agrawal Rupesh , Gunasan Vithiya , Stinnett Sandra S. , Grewal Dilraj S. , Fekrat Sharon
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the retinal and choroidal microvasculature and structure in individuals with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) compared with controls with normal cognition using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). Methods: An institutional review board–approved cross-sectional comparison of patients with DLB and cognitively normal controls was performed. The Cirrus HD-OCT 5000 with AngioPlex (Carl Zeiss Meditec) was used to obtain OCT and OCTA images. Results: Thirty-four eyes of 18 patients with DLB and 85 eyes of 48 cognitively normal patients were analyzed. The average capillary perfusion density (CPD) was higher in the DLB group than in the control group ( P = .005). The average capillary flux index (CFI) and ganglion cell inner-plexiform layer (GC-IPL) thickness were lower in the DLB group than in the control group ( P = .016 and P = .040, respectively). Conclusions: Patients with DLB had an increased peripapillary CPD, decreased peripapillary CFI, and attenuated GC-IPL thickness compared with those with normal cognition.
Learning metaphors and classroom enactments: Understanding webs of association and their entailments for school mathematics
Authors: Davis Brent , Francis Krista , Towers Jo , Markle Josh , Boháč-Clarke Veronika , Takeuchi Miwa A
Published: November 2023

Oriented by the observation that cross-cultural comparisons of mathematics teaching have had little impact on the evolution of classroom practice, we develop the thesis that approaches to school mathematics are rooted in metaphors and sustained by associations that are language specific. We examined distinct webs of meaning for the words “learn” and “teach” in three languages: English, Czech, and Japanese. By applying a tool designed for analyzing bodily classroom (inter)activity, we aim to demonstrate that the meanings of these words are evident in practices that are readily observed in video recordings of mathematics lessons conducted in these languages. We suggest that efforts toward “transcreation” rather than “translation” are better fitted to hopes of interpreting and informing classroom practices across languages.
ERS International Congress 2023: highlights from the Sleep Disordered Breathing Assembly
Authors: Siciliano Matteo , Bradicich Matteo , Tondo Pasquale , Gunduz Gurkan Canan , Kuczyński Wojciech , Martini Alessia , Aydin Güçlü Özge , Testelmans Dries , Sánchez-de-la-Torre Manuel , Randerath Winfried , Schwarz Esther Irene , Schiza Sophia
Published: November 2023

The topic of sleep-related breathing disorders is always evolving, and during the European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress 2023 in Milan, Italy, the latest research and clinical topics in respiratory medicine were presented. The most interesting issues included new diagnostic tools, such as cardiovascular parameters and artificial intelligence, pathophysiological traits of sleep disordered breathing from routine polysomnography or polygraphy signals, and new biomarkers and the diagnostic approach in patients with excessive daytime sleepiness. This article summarises the most relevant studies and topics presented at the ERS International Congress 2023. Each section has been written by early career members of ERS Assembly 4.
ERS International Congress 2023: highlights from the Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplantation Assembly
Authors: Zajacova Andrea , Scaramozzino Marco Umberto , Bellini Alice , Purwar Pallavi , Ricciardi Sara , Migliore Marcello , Meloni Federica , Esendagli Dorina
Published: November 2023

Five sessions presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress 2023 were selected by Assembly 8, consisting of thoracic surgeons and lung transplant professionals. Highlights covering management of adult spontaneous pneumothorax, malignant pleural effusion, infectious and immune-mediated complications after lung transplantation, as well as the pro and con debate on age limit in lung transplantation and results of the ScanCLAD study were summarised by early career members, supervised by the assembly faculty.
Neural oscillatory activity and connectivity in children who stutter during a non-speech motor task
Authors: Caruso Valeria C , Wray Amanda Hampton , Lescht Erica , Chang Soo-Eun
Published: November 2023

Background

Neural motor control rests on the dynamic interaction of cortical and subcortical regions, which is reflected in the modulation of oscillatory activity and connectivity in multiple frequency bands. Motor control is thought to be compromised in developmental stuttering, particularly involving circuits in the left hemisphere that support speech, movement initiation, and timing control. However, to date, evidence comes from adult studies, with a limited understanding of motor processes in childhood, closer to the onset of stuttering.

Methods

We investigated the neural control of movement initiation in children who stutter and children who do not stutter by evaluating transient changes in EEG oscillatory activity (power, phase locking to button press) and connectivity (phase synchronization) during a simple button press motor task. We compared temporal changes in these oscillatory dynamics between the left and right hemispheres and between children who stutter and children who do not stutter, using mixed-model analysis of variance.

Results

We found reduced modulation of left hemisphere oscillatory power, phase locking to button press and phase connectivity in children who stutter compared to children who do not stutter, consistent with previous findings of dysfunction within the left sensorimotor circuits. Interhemispheric connectivity was weaker at lower frequencies (delta, theta) and stronger in the beta band in children who stutter than in children who do not stutter.

Conclusions

Taken together, these findings indicate weaker engagement of the contralateral left motor network in children who stutter even during low-demand non-speech tasks, and suggest that the right hemisphere might be recruited to support sensorimotor processing in childhood stuttering. Differences in oscillatory dynamics occurred despite comparable task performance between groups, indicating that an altered balance of cortical activity might be a core aspect of stuttering, observable during normal motor behavior.
PRX102 Participates in Root Hairs Tip Growth of Rice
Authors: Moon Sunok , Derakhshani Behnam , Gho Yun Shil , Kim Eui-Jung , Lee Su Kyoung , Jiang Xu , Lee Choonseok , Jung Ki-Hong
Published: November 2023

Root hairs are extensions of epidermal cells on the root tips that increase the root contract surface area with the soil. For polar tip growth, newly synthesized proteins and other materials must be incorporated into the tips of root hairs. Here, we report the characterization of PRX102, a root hair preferential endoplasmic reticulum peroxidase. During root hair growth, PRX102 has a polar localization pattern within the tip regions of root hairs but it loses this polarity after growth termination. Moreover, PRX102 participates in root hair outgrowth by regulating dense cytoplasmic streaming toward the tip. This role is distinct from those of other peroxidases playing roles in the root hairs and regulating reactive oxygen species homeostasis. RNA-seq analysis using prx102 root hairs revealed that 87 genes including glutathione S-transferase were downregulated. Our results therefore suggest a new function of peroxidase as a player in the delivery of substances to the tips of growing root hairs.
PathExpSurv: pathway expansion for explainable survival analysis and disease gene discovery
Authors: Hou Zhichao , Leng Jiacheng , Yu Jiating , Xia Zheng , Wu Ling-Yun
Published: November 2023

Background

In the field of biology and medicine, the interpretability and accuracy are both important when designing predictive models. The interpretability of many machine learning models such as neural networks is still a challenge. Recently, many researchers utilized prior information such as biological pathways to develop neural networks-based methods, so as to provide some insights and interpretability for the models. However, the prior biological knowledge may be incomplete and there still exists some unknown information to be explored.

Results

We proposed a novel method, named PathExpSurv, to gain an insight into the black-box model of neural network for cancer survival analysis. We demonstrated that PathExpSurv could not only incorporate the known prior information into the model, but also explore the unknown possible expansion to the existing pathways. We performed downstream analyses based on the expanded pathways and successfully identified some key genes associated with the diseases and original pathways.

Conclusions

Our proposed PathExpSurv is a novel, effective and interpretable method for survival analysis. It has great utility and value in medical diagnosis and offers a promising framework for biological research.
Comparison of the effects of ketamine via nebulization versus different pharmacological approaches in pediatric sedation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Xiao , Lang Bingchen , Zeng Linan , Huang Liang , Chen Shouming , Jia Zhi-Jun , Cheng Guo , Yu Qin , Zhang Lingli
Published: November 2023

Background

Nebulized drug delivery is commonly used in pediatric clinical practice. The growing number of literatures have reported the application of nebulized ketamine in pediatric sedation in recent years. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy and safety of nebulized ketamine versus different pharmacological approaches was conducted to estimate the effects of this technique in pediatric sedation.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library from inception to Feb 2023. All randomized controlled trials used nebulized ketamine as presurgical and pre-procedural sedatives in children were included. Sedative effects and various adverse events were considered as the outcomes.

Results

Ten studies with 727 pediatric patients were enrolled. Compared to nebulized dexmedetomidine, using of ketamine via nebulization showed similar sedation satisfaction (54.79% vs. 60.69%, RR = 0.88, with 95%CI [0.61, 1.27]), success rate of parental separation (57.27% vs. 73.64%, RR = 0.81, with 95%CI [0.61, 1.08]), and mask acceptability (37.27% vs. 52.73%, RR = 0.71, with 95%CI [0.45, 1.10]). However, the using of combination of two medications (nebulized ketamine plus nebulized dexmedetomidine) was associated with better sedative satisfaction (33.82% vs. 68.11%, RR = 0.50, with 95%CI [0.27, 0.92]) and more satisfactory mask acceptance (45.59% vs. 71.01%, RR = 0.69, with 95%CI [0.56, 0.86]). Compared with nebulized ketamine, using of nebulized dexmedetomidine was associated with less incidence of emergence agitation (18.18% vs. 3.33%, RR = 4.98, with 95%CI [1.88, 13.16]).

Conclusions

Based on current evidences, compared to nebulized dexmedetomidine, nebulized ketamine provides inconspicuous advantages in pediatric sedation, and it has a relatively high incidence of emergence agitation. Combination of nebulized ketamine and dexmedetomidine might be considered as one preferred option in pediatric sedation as it can provide more satisfactory sedative effects. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding nebulized ketamine versus ketamine administered through other routes and nebulized ketamine versus other sedatives. The overall low or moderate quality of evidence evaluated by the GRADE system also calls for more high-quality studies with larger sample sizes in future.

Research registration

The protocol of present study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023403226).
Protecting small and sick newborn care in the COVID-19 pandemic: multi-stakeholder qualitative data from four African countries with NEST360
Authors: Steege Rosie , Mwaniki Hannah , Ogueji Ifeanyichukwu Anthony , Baraka Jitihada , Salimu Sangwani , Kumar Meghan Bruce , Kawaza Kondwani , Odedere Opeyemi , Shamba Donat , Bokea Helen , Chiume Msandeni , Adudans Steve , Ezeaka Chinyere , Paul Catherine , Banyira Laurent , Lungu Gaily , Salim Nahya , Zimba Evelyn , Ngwala Samuel , Tarus Alice , Bohne Christine , Gathara David , Lawn Joy E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Health system shocks are increasing. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in global disruptions to health systems, including maternal and newborn healthcare seeking and provision. Yet evidence on mitigation strategies to protect newborn service delivery is limited. We sought to understand what mitigation strategies were employed to protect small and sick newborn care (SSNC) across 65 facilities Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Tanzania, implementing with the NEST360 Alliance, and if any could be maintained post-pandemic.

Methods

We used qualitative methods (in-depth interviews n=132, focus group discussions n=15) with purposively sampled neonatal health systems actors in Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Tanzania. Data were collected from September 2021 - August 2022. Topic guides were co-developed with key stakeholders and used to gain a detailed understanding of approaches to protect SSNC during the COVID-19 pandemic. Questions explored policy development, collaboration and investments, organisation of care, human resources, and technology and device innovations. Interviews were conducted by experienced qualitative researchers and data were collected until saturation was reached. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. A common coding framework was developed, and data were coded via NVivo and analysed using a thematic framework approach.

Findings

We identified two pathways via which SSNC was strengthened. The first pathway, COVID-19 specific responses with secondary benefit to SSNC included: rapid policy development and adaptation, new and collaborative funding partnerships, improved oxygen systems, strengthened infection prevention and control practices. The second pathway, health system mitigation strategies during the pandemic, included: enhanced information systems, human resource adaptations, service delivery innovations, e.g., telemedicine, community engagement and more emphasis on planned preventive maintenance of devices. Chronic system weaknesses were also identified that limited the sustainability and institutionalisation of actions to protect SSNC.

Conclusion

Innovations to protect SSNC in response to the COVID-19 pandemic should be maintained to support resilience and high-quality routine SSNC delivery. In particular, allocation of resources to sustain high quality and resilient care practices and address remaining gaps for SSNC is critical.
Association of cesarean section with asthma in children/adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on cohort studies
Authors: Zhong Ziwei , Chen Meiling , Dai Senjie , Wang Yu , Yao Jie , Shentu Haojie , Huang Jianing , Yu Chiyuan , Zhang Hongrui , Wang Tianyue , Ren Wei
Published: November 2023

Background

Whether cesarean section (CS) is a risk factor for asthma in offspring is controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between CS and asthma in children/adolescents.

Methods

Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were searched for cohort studies on the relationship between mode of delivery and asthma in children/adolescents up to February 2023. Birth via CS was considered an exposure factor. Asthma incidence was taken as a result.

Results

Thirty-five cohort studies (thirteen prospective and twenty-two retrospective cohort studies) were included. The results showed that the incidence of asthma was higher in CS offspring (odds ratio (OR) = 1.18, P < 0.001) than in the vaginal delivery (VD) group. Partial subgroup analyses showed a higher incidence of asthma in female offspring born via CS (OR = 1.26, P < 0.001) compared with the VD group, while there was no difference in males (OR = 1.07, P = 0.325). Asthma incidence was higher in CS offspring than in the VD group in Europe (OR = 1.20, P < 0.001), North America (OR = 1.15, P < 0.001), and Oceania (OR = 1.06, P = 0.008). This trend was not found in the Asian population (OR = 1.17, P = 0.102). The incidence of atopic asthma was higher in offspring born via CS (OR = 1.14, P < 0.001) compared to the VD group. The CS group had a higher incidence of persistent asthma, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (OR = 1.15, P = 0.063).

Conclusion

In this meta-analysis, CS may be a risk factor for asthma in offspring children/adolescents compared with VD. The relationship between CS and asthma was influenced by sex and region.
Feasibility and acceptability of a peer provider delivered substance use screening and brief intervention program for youth in Kenya
Authors: Jaguga Florence , Kwobah Edith Kamaru , Giusto Ali , Apondi Edith , Barasa Julius , Korir Mercy , Rono Wilter , Kosgei Gilliane , Puffer Eve , Ott Mary
Published: November 2023

Background

Youth in sub-Saharan Africa are at high risk of substance use yet lack access to substance use interventions. The goal of this project was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a peer-delivered, single-session substance use screening and brief intervention program for youth in Kenya.

Methods

This was a convergent parallel mixed methods study utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Two trained peer providers administered the screening and brief intervention program to 100 youth aged 15–24 years. To evaluate the implementation of the intervention, we collected quantitative and qualitative data. Feasibility and acceptability were quantitatively assessed using the Dissemination and Implementation Measures. Fidelity was assessed by rating all 100 audio-recorded sessions using a checklist. To obtain qualitative feedback on the intervention, we conducted five focus group discussions with 25 youths and six semi-structured interviews with two peer providers and four clinic leaders. The semi-structured interviews were guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Quantitative data was analyzed via descriptive statistics using STATA. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis with NVIVO.

Results

The lifetime prevalence of any substance use was 50%. The mean level of acceptability of the intervention from the perspective of the youth was 3.53 (SD 0.15), meaning that the youth found the intervention to be acceptable “a lot” of the time. Mean levels of implementation outcomes (acceptability, adoption, Acceptability, Appropriateness, Feasibility, Reach/access, Organizational climate, General leadership skills, and Sustainability) as rated by peer providers and clinic staff ranged between 2.61 (“a moderate amount”) and 4.0 (“a lot”). In qualitative data, youth reported that the intervention was helpful and useful in enabling them to stop or reduce substance use. The peer providers felt that the intervention was easy to implement, while the clinic leaders felt that available resources were adequate, and that the intervention aligned well with the goals of the clinic.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the peer-delivered screening and brief intervention program was perceived as acceptable to the youth and feasible to implement.

Trial registration

NCT04998045 Registration date: 10/08/2021.
The impact of vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc supplements on immune status among Jordanian adults during COVID-19: cross-sectional study findings
Authors: Nawaiseh Hala K. , Abdelrahim Dana N. , Al-Domi Hayder , AL-Assaf Mohammad S. , AL-Nawaiseh Furat K.
Published: November 2023

Background and aims

Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity. The aims of the current study were to assess the immune status of a group of Jordanian adults and to evaluate the association between vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc consumption and the Immune Status during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 615 adults Jordanian participants were enrolled in this study, an online- based cross sectional survey was used as a tool for this study. Data was collected by distributing the questionnaire form link through social media platforms. The association between ISQ score and the supplement intake pattern (daily, weekly, monthly and rarely) was assessed using multinomial logistic regression analysis, described as Odds ratio and 95% CI.

Results

Data have indicated that the majority of the participants did not take Vitamin D supplements during the pandemic (46.3%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.777; P < 0.05). Data showed that the majority of participants used vitamin C supplementation (49.4%). Also, there was a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ (r = 12.797; P < 0.05). Data also have indicated that the majority of the participants did not increase their consumption of Zinc during the COVID-19 pandemic (55.6%).

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest a significant association between the frequency of Vitamin D, and vitamin C supplement intake and ISQ. Nutritional status is essential for the maintenance of the immune system, with malnutrition suppressing immunity.
Factors causing delayed presentations of breast cancer among female patients in Sulaimani Governorate, Kurdistan region, Iraq
Authors: Abdulkareem Alaa Abdulrazzaq , Ghalib Hawar Ali , Rashaan Mezjda Ismail
Published: November 2023

Background

Since breast cancer (BC) has the best chance of being effectively treated when it is tiny and has not spread, encouraging early disease detection remains a fundamental goal in improving prognosis.

Objective

To quantify the magnitude of the delay in BC presentation as well as the contributing factors related to this delay.

Patients and methods

Data was collected at the Breast Diseases Treatment Clinic, Shar Teaching Hospital, Sulaimani, Iraq from January 2017 to December 2021 of 429 patients. A validated questionnaire was distributed to women about their demographics, health, and general awareness of the disease. The patient delay was calculated by collecting information on when they initially began experiencing symptoms and when they saw a doctor. We also gleaned information about the tumour’s clinicopathological features from the patient’s medical records.

Results

The participants’ ages ranged from 24 to 85 years, with a mean of 49.6 ± 11. Most women were middle-aged (53.8%), from urban areas (80.2%), illiterate (41.7%), married (86.5%), housewives (79.0%), given birth to > 4 children (34%), practised breastfeeding (78.8%), and non-smokers (91.4%). Regarding patients’ health behaviours, there were highly significant correlations between early and late presentation (p < 0.001). Concerning the patient’s awareness of BC symptoms, there were highly significant correlations between early and late presentation (p < 0.001). In addition, the late presentation was strongly correlated with bilateral BC, lymph node involvement, inflammatory BC, grade III BC, and T4 status.

Conclusions

Our findings shed light on possible causes of late presentation and identified those at risk of delayed consultation. Our communities need to be educated about BC, and encouraging them for early detection decreases the incidence of advanced BC.
Supporting the nurse educator in clinical education – a qualitative evaluation of a digital educational resource DigiVIS
Authors: Laugaland Kristin A , Handeland Maria , Aase Ingunn , Husebø Anne Marie Lunde , Frøiland Christina , Akerjordet Kristin
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite the increased use of technology for teaching and learning in clinical nursing education, relatively little attention seems to be directed toward the usefulness of digital educational resources (DERs) to support nurse educators’ educational role in clinical nursing education.

Methods

An interpretive descriptive qualitative study design was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of a DER to support nurse educators in clinical nursing education. Data were collected through two focus group interviews with part-time and novice educators (n = 5) and full-time, more experienced educators (n = 5), after they had overseen student nurses in nursing home placements. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines were used for this study.

Findings

The analysis identified three themes related to nurse educators’ experiences of the usefulness of a DER to support their educational role while overseeing first-year students on clinical placements in nursing homes: (1) Provides academic support and a sense of security (2) promotes pedagogical efficacy, and (3) represents a flexible resource for educational planning.

Conclusion

This study shows that a digital educational resource can be an efficient and useful supplementary strategy to support the nurse educator’s role in clinical nursing education. Future research is required to systematize knowledge about the impact of DERs on orientation and training, as well as motivation and facilitators for, and barriers to, their use to enhance quality and strengthen the nurse educator’s role in clinical nursing education.
Registered nurses’ exposure to workplace aggression in Norway: 12-month prevalence rates, perpetrators, and current turnover intention
Authors: Ose Solveig Osborg , Lohmann-Lafrenz Signe , Kaspersen Silje L. , Berthelsen Hanne , Marchand Gunn Hege
Published: November 2023

Background

Identifying occupational health hazards among Registered Nurses (RNs) and other health personnel and implementing effective preventive measures are crucial to the long-term sustainability of health services. The objectives of this study were (1) to assess the 12-month prevalence rates of exposure to workplace aggression, including physical violence, threats of violence, sexual harassment, and bullying; (2) to identify whether the perpetrators were colleagues, managers, subordinates, or patients and their relatives; (3) to determine whether previous exposure to these hazards was associated with RNs’ current turnover intention; and (4) to frame workplace aggression from an occupational health and safety perspective.

Methods

The third version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ III) was used to assess RNs’ exposure to workplace aggression and turnover intention. A national sample of 8,800 RNs in Norway, representative of the entire population of registered nurses in terms of gender and geography, was analysed. Binary and ordinal logistic regression analyses were conducted, and odds for exposure and intention to leave are presented, with and without controls for RNs’ gender, age, and the type of health service they work in.

Results

The 12-month prevalence rates for exposure were 17.0% for physical violence, 32.5% for threats of violence, 12.6% for sexual harassment, and 10.5% for bullying. In total, 42.6% of the RNs had experienced at least one of these types of exposure during the past 12 months, and exposure to more than one of these hazards was common. Most perpetrators who committed physical acts and sexual harassment were patients, while bullying was usually committed by colleagues. There was a strong statistical association between exposure to all types of workplace aggression and RNs’ intention to leave. The strongest association was for bullying, which greatly increased the odds of looking for work elsewhere.

Conclusions

Efforts to prevent exposure to workplace aggression should be emphasised to retain health personnel and to secure the supply of skilled healthcare workers. The results indicate a need for improvements. To ensure the sustainability of health services, labour and health authorities should join forces to develop effective workplace measures to strengthen prevention, mitigation, and preparedness regarding incidents of workplace aggression in health services and the response and recovery regarding incidents that could not be prevented.
The divergent ER-mitochondria encounter structures (ERMES) are conserved in parabasalids but lost in several anaerobic lineages with hydrogenosomes
Authors: Kučerová Jitka , Zdrha Alois , Shinde Abhishek , Harant Karel , Hrdý Ivan , Tachezy Jan
Published: November 2023

Background

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria membrane contact sites (MCS) are extensively studied in aerobic eukaryotes; however, little is known about MCS in anaerobes with reduced forms of mitochondria named hydrogenosomes. In several eukaryotic lineages, the direct physical tether between ER and the outer mitochondrial membrane is formed by ER-mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES). The complex consists of four core proteins (Mmm1, Mmm2, Mdm12, and Mdm10) which are involved in phospholipid trafficking. Here we investigated ERMES distribution in organisms bearing hydrogenosomes and employed Trichomonas vaginalis as a model to estimate ERMES cellular localization, structure, and function.

Results

Homology searches revealed that Parabasalia-Anaeramoebae, anaerobic jakobids, and anaerobic fungi are lineages with hydrogenosomes that retain ERMES, while ERMES components were gradually lost in Fornicata, and are absent in Preaxostyla and Archamoebae. In T. vaginalis and other parabasalids, three ERMES components were found with the expansion of Mmm1. Immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed that Mmm1 localized in ER, while Mdm12 and Mmm2 were partially localized in hydrogenosomes. Pull-down assays and mass spectrometry of the ERMES components identified a parabasalid-specific Porin2 as a substitute for the Mdm10. ERMES modeling predicted a formation of a continuous hydrophobic tunnel of TvMmm1-TvMdm12-TvMmm2 that is anchored via Porin2 to the hydrogenosomal outer membrane. Phospholipid-ERMES docking and Mdm12-phospholipid dot-blot indicated that ERMES is involved in the transport of phosphatidylinositol phosphates. The absence of enzymes involved in hydrogenosomal phospholipid metabolism implies that ERMES is not involved in the exchange of substrates between ER and hydrogenosomes but in the unidirectional import of phospholipids into hydrogenosomal membranes.

Conclusions

Our investigation demonstrated that ERMES mediates ER-hydrogenosome interactions in parabasalid T. vaginalis, while the complex was lost in several other lineages with hydrogenosomes.
Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibition for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and chronic kidney disease with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a narrative review
Authors: Mentz Robert J. , Brunton Stephen A. , Rangaswami Janani
Published: November 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are common and interrelated conditions, each with a significant burden of disease. HF and kidney disease progress through pathophysiologic pathways that culminate in end-stage disease, for which T2DM is a major risk factor. Intervention within these pathways can disrupt disease processes and improve patient outcomes. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have been investigated in patient populations with combinations of T2DM, CKD, and/or HF. However, until recently, the effect of these agents in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) was not well studied.

Main body

The aim of this review is to summarize key information regarding the interaction between HFpEF, CKD, and T2DM and discuss the role of SGLT2 inhibition in the management of patients with comorbid HFpEF and CKD, with or without T2DM. Literature was retrieved using Boolean searches for English-language articles in PubMed and Google Scholar and included terms related to SGLT2is, HFpEF, T2DM, and CKD. The reference lists from retrieved articles were also considered.

Conclusion

SGLT2is are efficacious and safe in treating HFpEF in patients with comorbid CKD with and without T2DM. The totality of evidence from clinical trials data suggests there are benefits in using SGLT2is across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fractions, but there may be a potential for different renal effects in the different ejection fraction groups. Further analysis of these clinical trials has highlighted the need to obtain more accurate phenotypes for patients with HF and CKD to better determine which patients might respond to guideline-directed medical therapies, including SGLT2is.

Graphical Abstract

CI confidence interval, EF ejection fraction, eGFR estimated glomerular filtration rate, HF heart failure, HHF hospitalization for HF, HR hazard ratio, LVEF left ventricular ejection fraction, SGLT2i sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, UACR urine albumin-creatinine ratio. a Mean value, unless otherwise stated, b SGLT2i vs. placebo, c Data reanalyzed using more conventional endpoints (≥ 50% sustained decrease in eGFR, and including renal death) (UACR at baseline not stated in trial reports)
Rice farmers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices towards mosquitoes in irrigation schemes in Côte d’Ivoire: a qualitative study
Authors: Chan Kallista , Konan Kouadio Aimé-Charles , Doudou Dimi Théodore , Kouadio Ghislain Brou , Lines Jo , Aunger Robert , N’Guessan Raphael , Tusting Lucy S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Irrigated rice cultivation in sub-Saharan Africa not only brings more malaria vectors to nearby communities, but also greater malaria risk. To aid the implementation of mosquito control in rice-growing communities, it is necessary to understand how farmers understand, view and manage their responsibility in mosquito generation and whether they are interested in coordinating to minimize it.

Methods

Qualitative methods (observation grids, semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus group discussions) were used to reveal the perceptions of mosquitoes and their control in two irrigated rice farming communities in central Côte d’Ivoire near the M’bé and Lokapli irrigation schemes.

Results

All rice farmers viewed mosquitoes as severe nuisances, and most acknowledged that they caused djèkouadjo (malaria) and were less numerous during harmattan (dry season). Many study participants believed that mosquitoes originated from grasses and stagnant water around villages. Only those living closer in proximity (~ 1 km) to the paddies believed that mosquitoes came from the bas-fonds (irrigated lowlands). However, they did not associate mosquito production with rice cultivation. Some farmers believed that there were more mosquitoes in recent years than historically because of the dam construction, but remarked on the importance of the dam (and bas-fonds) for their livelihood. Many farmers were not convinced that mosquito control could occur at farm-level.

Conclusions

To enhance accountability amongst rice farmers, there is a need for greater awareness on the rice-mosquito link, and emphasis that the link does not imply a trade-off between food production and health. Training should not only be directed towards farming communities, but also agricultural and health extension workers. Future riceland mosquito control methods must focus on improving crop productivity and address collective action problems that may occur.