bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Partner Sexual Violence Among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lim Sahnah , Park Onyoo , Mohaimin Sadia , Lee Christina , Lee Seunggun , Chauhan Dhruvi , Roberts Timothy , Ali Shahmir H. , Trinh-Shevrin Chau
Published: April 2022

The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) population is rapidly growing in the United States. Despite sexual violence being a persistent and significant public health issue, research on this topic among AANHPIs is lacking. The study objective is to conduct a systematic scoping review on the published literature on non-partner sexual violence among AANHPIs to identify gaps and priorities to inform actionable research. The systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA Protocol for Systematic Reviews. Database searches were conducted of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Central of Clinical Trials, along with and AgeLine and CINAHL for peer-reviewed articles describing non-partner sexual violence among AANHPIs. The search was limited to articles in English published after 1990. Each citation was reviewed by two trained independent reviewers, with a third researcher resolving any conflicts. Of the 998 articles screened and subsequently 496 full-text articles assessed for eligibility, 38 articles were included in the final analysis. The majority of studies did not report disaggregated data for AANHPI subgroups, with most focusing on East Asian subgroups and little evidence on NHPI communities. Most studies were cross-sectional, quantitative, and employed non-probability sampling. There was a lack of studies on effectiveness of interventions and validity of sexual violence-related measures. Our review provides a first step in mapping the extant literature on non-partner sexual violence among this underserved and under-researched population and will serve as a guide for future research, policy, and intervention.
Failure mechanisms of kenaf/glass sandwich laminates subjected to low velocity impact loading
Authors: Ahmad Nadzri Seri Nur Zumaimi , Md Shah Ain Umaira , Sultan Mohamed Thariq Hameed , Safri Syafiqah Nur Azrie , Shahar Farah Syazwani , Basri Adi Azriff
Published: April 2022

Stacking sequences of composite laminates have significant effects not only on the properties of composites but also on the types of damage occurred on the composites structure. The current study investigated the low velocity impact properties and the damage progression of kenaf core sandwich laminates in different layering sequence of fibre laminates. There were three different sequences of kenaf (K) and glass (G) fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester composites, that is, G/K/G hybrid, G/K/K hybrid and K/K/K composites, which were fabricated using hand lay-up method. The layer of gelcoat provided a protective layer and finishing to the composite. The composites experienced the low velocity impact at three different energy levels which were 5 J, 10 J and 15 J. Through the research, a diamond shape matrix cracking was exhibited on the gelcoat surface. The main failure mode that occurred on the specimen during the low velocity impact was matrix cracking, fibre breakage, delamination and fibre pulled-out. From the results, G/K/G hybrid resisted the highest impact energy which is up to 10 J and G/K/K hybrid resisted up to 5 J. Meanwhile K/K/K composite failed to resist any of designated energy. Therefore, it can be suggested that G/K/G hybrid composites had shown good performance in low velocity impact properties to be used as the bus bumper material.
Effect of layering sequence and ambient temperature on thermal insulation of multilayer high bulk nonwoven under extreme cold temperatures
Authors: Dupade Vikrant , Kumari Ranjna , Premachandran Balachandran , Rengasamy Raju Seenivasan , Talukdar Prabal
Published: April 2022

In extreme cold weather clothing ensemble, multiple layers of high bulk nonwovens are used to provide thermal insulation to the wearer. In this work, the effect of layering sequence in multi-layered high bulk thermal bonded nonwoven assembly on its thermal resistance is evaluated experimentally under sub-zero temperatures. Two multi-layered nonwovens, one made up of 1.4 denier solid (1.4 D S), 6 denier hollow (6 D H) and 15 denier hollow (15 D H) and the second made up of 3 denier hollow (3 D H), 6 denier hollow (6 D H) and 15 denier hollow (15 D H) polyester fibres were studied. The experiments were performed in a climatic chamber in the temperature range of 310 K to 210 K. Numerical simulations were carried out assuming heat transfer through the nonwovens as one-dimensional coupled conduction-radiation. The numerical methodology was developed using theoretical relations available in the literature to estimate the steady-state temperature profiles through the nonwoven layers and were validated using experimental data. The concurrence of experimental and numerical temperature profiles justifies the numerical methodology adopted in this work. Thermal resistance provided by the high bulk nonwoven increases with a decrease in ambient temperature. It is found that the thermal conductivity of nonwoven layers decreases from inner-to outer layers at a given ambient temperature. The heat flux through nonwoven layers, overall thermal conductivity and the thermal resistance of multi-layer nonwoven are independent of layering sequence if the convective heat transfer is extremely low.
Descriptive Representation and Prosecutorial Discretion: Race, Sex, and Carceral Disparities
Authors: Gunderson Anna
Published: April 2022

Conversations around criminal legal reform often center around prosecutorial discretion. Yet, we know little about how the demographic characteristics of prosecutors influence case outcomes and race- and sex-based carceral disparities. I investigate this question using an original dataset of all county prosecutors in the US in 2001 and 2007 and find some differences between non-white and female prosecutors and white and male prosecutors. Black prosecutors are associated with fewer felony closures and convictions, Latinx prosecutors are associated with lower Latinx jail populations, and female prosecutors are associated with lower female and Black jail populations, lower Black prison admissions, and lower jail admissions rates. These findings suggest prosecutorial discretion is an important plank of criminal legal reform, and increasing the diversity of those offices may act as an important and initial step to limit the negative effects of the carceral state on particular communities.
Gross Tumor Volume Segmentation for Stage III NSCLC Radiotherapy Using 3D ResSE-Unet
Authors: Yu Xinhao , Jin Fu , Luo HuanLi , Lei Qianqian , Wu Yongzhong
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Radiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to treat lung cancer. Accurately delineating the gross target volume is a key step in the radiotherapy process. In current clinical practice, the target area is still delineated manually by radiologists, which is time-consuming and laborious. However, these problems can be better solved by deep learning-assisted automatic segmentation methods.

Methods: In this paper, a 3D CNN model named 3D ResSE-Unet is proposed for gross tumor volume segmentation for stage III NSCLC radiotherapy. This model is based on 3D Unet and combines residual connection and channel attention mechanisms. Three-dimensional convolution operation and encoding-decoding structure are used to mine three-dimensional spatial information of tumors from computed tomography data. Inspired by ResNet and SE-Net, residual connection and channel attention mechanisms are used to improve segmentation performance. A total of 214 patients with stage III NSCLC were collected selectively and 148 cases were randomly selected as the training set, 30 cases as the validation set, and 36 cases as the testing set. The segmentation performance of models was evaluated by the testing set. In addition, the segmentation results of different depths of 3D Unet were analyzed. And the performance of 3D ResSE-Unet was compared with 3D Unet, 3D Res-Unet, and 3D SE-Unet.

Results: Compared with other depths, 3D Unet with four downsampling depths is more suitable for our work. Compared with 3D Unet, 3D Res-Unet, and 3D SE-Unet, 3D ResSE-Unet can obtain superior results. Its dice similarity coefficient, 95th-percentile of Hausdorff distance, and average surface distance can reach 0.7367, 21.39mm, 4.962mm, respectively. And the average time cost of 3D ResSE-Unet to segment a patient is only about 10s.

Conclusion: The method proposed in this study provides a new tool for GTV auto-segmentation and may be useful for lung cancer radiotherapy.
The Association Between Low T3 Syndrome and Survival in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Pan Qingrong , Jian Yuan , Zhang Yeqing , Zhang Wenkai , Chen Zhe , Yang Yanna , Liu Aijun , Wang Guang
Published: April 2022

Objective: The correlation between low triiodothyronine (T3) syndrome and shorter survival in malignant tumor patients has been increasingly reported. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between low T3 syndrome and survival in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Methods: A total of 201 newly diagnosed MM patients were included in this retrospective study. All participants were divided into 2 groups based on serum free T3 (FT3) level: low T3 syndrome group (FT3 < 2.3 pg/mL) and non-low T3 syndrome group (FT3 ≥ 2.3 pg/mL). Baseline clinical characteristics, overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) were analyzed. Results: 80 (39.8%) patients had low T3 syndrome. Patients with low T3 syndrome had significantly lower blood hemoglobin and albumin, higher creatinine and β2-microglobulin (β2-MG), higher neutrophil/lymphocyte and (neutrophil + monocyte)/lymphocyte ratio, and more advanced ISS and R-ISS stages (all P < .05). Serum FT3 level was positively associated with blood hemoglobin and albumin, and negatively correlated with β2-MG, creatinine, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, and (neutrophil + monocyte)/lymphocyte ratio (all P < .05). Patients with low T3 syndrome had significantly inferior OS time and PFS time (both P < .001). In multivariate Cox analysis, low T3 syndrome was found to be an independent factor associated with OS ( P < .001) and PFS ( P = .002). Receiver operator characteristic curve analyses showed that FT3 was a predictive marker for death during the entire follow-up period (the area under the curve [AUC] = 0.720, P < .001) and during 1 year (AUC = 0.747, P < .001). Conclusion: Low T3 syndrome might be useful for predicting survival in patients with newly diagnosed MM.
Open the Window for the Cure of Dravet
Authors: Gu Bin
Published: April 2022

[Box: see text]
Making Qualitative Research Inclusive: Methodological Insights in Disability Research
Authors: Watharow Annmaree , Wayland Sarah
Published: April 2022

Qualitative research necessitates the representation of, and engagement with, people who the research is designed to assist. Disability research not only seeks to explore populations where lived experience of disability is distinct, it is also a field where researchers themselves have lived experience. This paper reflects on the methodological innovations between the researcher, their supervisory team and the co-created opportunities to collect qualitative experiences from participants with disabilities, acknowledging the researcher’s own disability. The purpose of the paper was to provide scope to explore the multiple provisions required to be inclusive of accessibility needs as a way to bring unique consumer perspectives to the research table. The paper demonstrates, through a narrative lens, how the research space is altered for people and researchers when disability is present; requiring ways to ensure inclusive research practices are responded to. Recommendations for future co-creation of research with disability are identified.
Application of a technique for reducing supersonic starting loads on internal wind tunnel balances
Authors: Vuković Djordje , Damljanović Dijana , Ocokoljić Goran , Ilić Biljana
Published: April 2022

Higher than anticipated supersonic starting loads in the VTI T-38 wind tunnel were a consequence of higher than designed minimum start pressures. Initially, high starting loads limited the usefulness of the facility at high supersonic Mach numbers. Over time, it was established that several procedures and techniques had to be used cooperatively to diminish the problem. One of the techniques is the establishment of additional points of contact of the model and the support sting for the duration of the starting loads, so that a part of the aerodynamic loads is transferred to the sting through the added path, relieving the sensitive force balance. Some applications of this technique require dedicated mechanisms to operate, which was impractical for the VTI T-38 wind tunnel. To the contrary, the implementation of the idea in the VTI T-38 wind tunnel relies on using suitable inserts to make the clearance between the model and the sting such that model-sting contact is forced to occur during the start and stop phenomena, but not during the measurement phase of the test. For typical model configurations, transient starting and stopping loads can be reduced by more than 50%.
On the potential of clustering approaches for hygrothermal material properties based on three degradation risks in solid masonry constructions
Authors: Vanderschelden Bruno , Calle Klaas , Van Den Bossche Nathan
Published: April 2022

Historic masonry has a rich and colorful history making it a treasured part in our society. To preserve and protect this heritage, adequate moisture control, retrofit, and restauration strategies are required. However, due to the large range of material properties inherent to historic brickwork, a single uniform renovation strategy appears impossible. To describe similarity in brickwork, the existing clustering approach developed by Zhao was evaluated. The idea is that different types of bricks with similar properties can be represented by a single representative brick for that cluster, for example, when conducting hygrothermal simulations. It could help improve existing retrofit practice by reducing characterization processes and minimizing time-consuming laboratory measuring tests. However, in this paper the approach presented by Zhao is questioned since the clustering is solely based on an equal impact of the material properties and the response behavior and associated degradation risks are neglected. The aim of this paper was twofold. Firstly, similarity in brickwork obtained by clustering according to Zhao was evaluated by means of hygrothermal simulations to see whether bricks in the same cluster show similar degradation risks. Zhao’s clustering provides homogenous clusters regarding physical material properties, but significant variation was found in degradation risks for different bricks within the same cluster. Secondly, a methodology is presented to translate similarities in degradation profiles toward similarities in material properties. Sensitivity analyses were used to study the response behavior based on three degradations risks: mold growth, wood rot, and frost damage. Finally, an overall clustering scheme was generated for brickwork, based on classification trees for different degradation phenomena.
Supporting Social Inclusion in Neighbourhoods of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Service Providers’ Practice Experiences
Authors: Boland Geraldine , Guerin Suzanne
Published: April 2022

Deinstitutionalisation has increased the likelihood of adults with intellectual disabilities residing in neighbourhoods either in staff-supported accommodation or in their family home. However, it raises the question of whether national policies on disability have translated into practice actions by service providers that result in positive social inclusion outcomes for individuals. This study examined the practice initiatives supporting social inclusion in neighbourhoods in specialist state-funded service providers for adults with intellectual disabilities. Using a mixed methods design, CEOs/service leaders of 40 organisations completed an online survey. Follow-up interviews were completed with a randomised sample. Shifting towards new service models and strategic links with mainstream organisations were most often mentioned as furthering social inclusion goals. A wide range of service initiatives were reported, with positive outcomes alongside a range of challenges. Service providers play an important role in providing individualised supports that foster local engagement. However, the service context is complex and service leaders have reported many challenges that may impede progress on social inclusion.
Bitesizes, battlegrounds and bedtimes: Children at the BBC
Authors: Messenger Davies Máire
Published: April 2022

This Provocations article reviews some key moments in the history of Children’s BBC, now, since 2019, combined with Education. It refers to important and occasionally controversial programmes, such as Grange Hill, Newsround and Horrible Histories and draws on recent interviews with former head of Children’s, Anna Home, current head of Children’s In-house Production, Helen Bullough, and former head of Children’s Digital, and Director of the campaigning group Children’s Media Foundation, Greg Childs. All are asked why children’s programming matters and the article discusses their answers.
The Geo-Ecological Turn in Sociology and its Implications for the Sociology of the Arts
Authors: Holt Fabian
Published: April 2022

Accelerating climate change has set in motion a broad change in beliefs about human life that is affecting the social sciences and humanities (SSH). A deeper understanding of the social causes and consequences of climate change is evolving in sociology, yet some of the discipline’s subfields have not responded to climate change. Is this because climate change is perceived to be irrelevant or are scholars suppressing new beliefs that could disrupt the norms of their field? The sociology of the arts provides an illustrative case. This subfield has historically ignored environmental factors, but there is mounting pressure for correcting this oversight and rethinking the beliefs and norms of the field. This article argues that climate change is relevant to the sociology of the arts and that this subfield can become more aligned with the geo-ecological turn in sociology and the SSH. This turn is part of a wider epochal and existential transformation in public consciousness in response to broad changes in society and nature. Changing beliefs about the arts are therefore not explained by endogenous dynamics in the arts field. The article provides a meta-analysis of the geo-ecological turn in sociology and in interdisciplinary arts and cultural research where pioneering arguments have emerged. The analysis uses theory of disciplinary transformation in the sociology of science to analyze largely implicit sociological claims for a transformation of ‘normal science’ beliefs about (1) aesthetic exceptionalism, illustrated by a new conception of music as a study object, and (2) the role of the arts in economic growth. Some implications for the sociology of the arts are considered.
A single dedicated vaccination visit improves vaccination coverage of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Le Cosquer Guillaume , Grangeon Lionel , Rivière Pauline , Berger Arthur , Zerbib Frank , Laharie David , Poullenot Florian
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Patients treated with biologics for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of severe infections. Real-life vaccination coverage in this population remains low despite international vaccination guidelines. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a dedicated vaccination visit on vaccination coverage.

Methods:

A dedicated vaccination visit was offered to all patients admitted for an infusion of a biologic in a tertiary IBD center during a 4-week period. At baseline, vaccination status was collected. Patients received specific information on recommended vaccinations. Perceived utility of both vaccination and the dedicated visit were assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS). Vaccination coverage was reassessed 6 months later by phone call.

Results:

Among the 207 patients analyzed (1 patient declined), rates of vaccination at baseline and 6 months later against diphtheria were 52.7% and 68.6% ( p < 0.001), tetanus 55.1% and 70% ( p < 0.001), poliomyelitis 51.7% and 68.6% ( p < 0.001), pertussis 33.3% and 51.2% ( p < 0.001), hepatitis B virus (HBV) 61.4% and 66.7% ( p < 0.01), pneumococcus 15.5% and 42.0% ( p < 0.001), influenza 29.5% and 36.2% ( p < 0.01), and meningococcus C 11.6% and 13.0% ( p = 0.083), respectively. A quarter of the patients declined at least one recommended vaccination after the visit. The main reason for this refusal was distrust toward one or more vaccines.

Conclusion:

A single visit dedicated to vaccination significantly increases rates of vaccination in patients with IBD treated with biologics.
Promoción de salud más allá de los estilos de vida saludables: propuestas de actuación en una universidad chilena
Authors: Pérez-Wilson Patricia , Marcos-Marcos Jorge , Ruiz-Cantero María Teresa , Carrasco-Portiño Mercedes , Alvarez-Dardet Carlos
Published: April 2022

Resumen:

Las intervenciones centradas en cambios de conducta, sumadas a la escasa evidencia de mapeo y dinamización de activos en Universidades Promotoras de Salud (UPS), hacen necesario potenciar enfoques integrales y sistémicos que contribuyan al bienestar y empoderamiento de sus integrantes. El objetivo de este artículo es explorar propuestas de acción que contribuyan a fortalecer activos en una comunidad universitaria chilena. Se desarrolló un estudio cualitativo con 72 hombres/77 mujeres (estudiantes, trabajadores, jubilados y exestudiantes). Se realizaron 48 entrevistas individuales y 14 grupos focales. Se efectuó un análisis de contenido utilizando el software QRS NVivo 12. Las propuestas identificadas se agruparon en: desarrollo de la participación e inclusión, promoción de la salud mental, mantenimiento y mejora de áreas verdes e infraestructura, y fortalecimiento del acceso a actividades deportivas, culturales y de extensión universitaria. Las mujeres valoraron la difusión de activos comunitarios y el cuidado de las personas y el entorno. Y los hombres, el fortalecimiento del capital social, la docencia y la transferencia de conocimiento. Las propuestas de acción tienen una orientación colectiva que favorece el vínculo de las personas con su entorno y el desarrollo del sentido de comunidad. Desde una perspectiva de género, se observa reproducción de roles y estereotipos arraigados en el sistema patriarcal. Esto constituye un desafío para potenciar las UPS en tanto política pública, considerando los principios de participación, justicia social y equidad.
Red List and Vulnerability Assessment of the Páramo Vascular Flora in the Nevados Natural National Park (Colombia)
Authors: Camacho Francisco , Peyre Gwendolyn
Published: April 2022

Background and research aims. The Andean páramo is renowned for its unique biodiversity and sensitivity to environmental threats. However, vulnerability assessments remain scarce, which hinders our capacity to prioritize and apply efficient conservation measures. To this end, we established the Red List of the páramo vascular flora from the Nevados National Natural Park and proposed conservation strategies for its threatened species. Methods. We performed International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List assessments by evaluating Criterion B, including sub-criteria B1–Extent of Occurrence and B2–Area of Occupancy, and using a systematic geographic-ecological approach for conditions a (Location analysis) and b (Continuing decline). We then executed a Conservation Gap Analysis to prioritize species for in- situ and/or ex-situ conservation. Results. Summing our 233 evaluated species with previous assessments, we completed the Red List of 262 páramo species and encountered 3% Threatened (7 VU, one EN), 44% Not Threatened (65 LC, 50 NT), and 53% Data Deficient. We acknowledged Lupinus ruizensis as Endangered and Aequatorium jamesonii, Carex jamesonii, Elaphoglossum cuspidatum, Miconia latifolia, Miconia alborosea, Pentacalia gelida, and Themistoclesia mucronata as Vulnerable. Conclusion. The eight threatened species should be included as target species in the PNN Nevados management plan 2023–2028 and regarded as national conservation priorities. Implications for Conservation. We recommend in-situ conservation for Medium-Priority species A. jamesonii, E. cuspidatum, and T. mucronata with thorough monitoring, paired with sub-population transfers for High-Priority species C. jamesonii. For the endemic L. ruizensis and P. gelida, we suggest combined in-situ/ex-situ strategies taking advantage of national germoplasm collections, like the seed bank of the Bogotá Botanical Garden José Celestino Mutis.
A Pre-Clinical Animal Study for Zonal Articular Cartilage Regeneration Using Stratified Implantation of Microcarrier Expanded Zonal Chondrocytes
Authors: Tee Ching Ann , Yang Zheng , Wu Yingnan , Ren Xiafei , Baranski Maciej , Lin Daryl Jimian , Hassan Afizah , Han Jongyoon , Lee Eng Hin
Published: April 2022

Objective

The zonal properties of articular cartilage critically contribute to the mechanical support and lubrication of the tissue. Current treatments for articular cartilage have yet to regenerate this zonal architecture, thus compromising the functional efficacy of the repaired tissue and leading to tissue degeneration in the long term. In this study, the efficacy of zonal cartilage regeneration through bilayered implantation of expanded autologous zonal chondrocytes was investigated in a porcine chondral defect model.

Design

Autologous chondrocytes extracted from articular cartilage in the non-weight bearing trochlea region of the knee were subjected to an expansion-sorting strategy, integrating dynamic microcarrier (dMC) culture, and spiral microchannel size-based zonal chondrocyte separation. Zonal chondrocytes were then implanted as bilayered fibrin hydrogel construct in a porcine knee chondral defect model. Repair efficacy was compared with implantation with cell-free fibrin hydrogel and full thickness (FT) cartilage-derived heterogenous chondrocytes. Cartilage repair was evaluated 6 months after implantation.

Results

Sufficient numbers of zonal chondrocytes for implantation were generated from the non-weight bearing cartilage. Six-month repair outcomes showed that bilayered implantation of dMC-expanded zonal chondrocytes resulted in substantial recapitulation of zonal architecture, including chondrocyte arrangement, specific Proteoglycan 4 distribution, and collagen alignment, that was accompanied by healthier underlying subchondral bone.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that with appropriate expansion and isolation of zonal chondrocytes, the strategy of stratified zonal chondrocyte implantation represents a significant advancement to Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation-based cartilage regeneration, with the potential to improve the long-term integrity of the regenerated tissues.
Male involvement in family planning use and associated factors among currently married men in rural Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Mulatu Teshale , Sintayehu Yitagesu , Dessie Yadeta , Dheresa Merga
Published: April 2022

Introduction/Objectives:

Male involvement in family planning refers to all organizational actions focused on men as a distinct group to increase the acceptability and uptake of family planning among either sex. Despite the growing evidence of male involvement in increasing family planning uptake among couples, a little success has been achieved in Ethiopia, especially in rural areas. Hence, this study aimed to assess male involvement in family planning and its associated factors among currently married men in selected rural areas of Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 577 randomly selected currently married men, using a simple random sampling method in randomly selected rural districts of Eastern Ethiopia. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. The collected data were entered into a computer using Epi-Data Version 3.1. The analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the social sciences software version 21. Logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between the dependent and independent variables. Finally, adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals at P-value < 0.05 was considered to be significantly associated with the outcome variable.

Results:

Out of 577, a total of, 555 married men were included in the study, resulting in a response rate of 96.2%. The magnitude of male involvement in family planning use was 59.3% (95% confidence interval: 47.1, 68. 2). Ever use of family planning by a spouse (adjusted odds ratio: 2.37; 95% confidence interval: 1.59, 3.52), ever discussion of spouse on sexual and reproductive health/family planning issues (adjusted odds ratio: 2.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.40, 3.02), and the husband’s approval of family planning (adjusted odds ratio: 2.45; 95% confidence interval: 1.34, 4.96) were significantly associated with higher odds of male involvement in family planning use than their counterparts.

Conclusion:

The number of men involved in the family planning was low. Ever use of family planning methods by a spouse, ever discussion of spouse on sexual and reproductive health/family planning issues, and husband approval on family planning use were found to be important predictors of male involvement in family planning use. To improve modern family planning uptake among men and women, it is imperative to include men in family planning programs, such as family planning messaging, sensitizations, and services.
Coronavirus’s (SARS-CoV-2) airborne transmission: A review
Authors: Handiso Tilahun Beyene , Jifar Markos Selamu , Nuriye Hagisso Shemsu
Published: April 2022

This scientific review of mode of transmission of COVID-19 is to aid scientific community in generating hypothesis. The inadequate evidence on SARS-CoV-2 transmission has hindered the development of effective prevention strategy and resulted in continues pandemic of the COVID-19. Therefore, in this review, existing evidence is discussed, hypothesis is generated regarding COVID-19 mode of transmission, and recommendations are forwarded based on existing body of knowledge. Thus, two meters (2 m) physical distance is not completely safe even for large droplets and wearing a face mask is a key in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 in public areas and confined space and public need to be vaccinated.
Annular bullous pemphigoid: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Arès Steffie , Lim Darosa , Jung Sungmi , Bouffard Danielle , Mereniuk Alexandra
Published: April 2022

Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune blistering disease that primarily affects the geriatric population. It often presents as urticarial erythematous plaques, which evolve into subepidermal blisters accompanied by pruritus. Although rare, clinical variants of bullous pemphigoid have been documented. We present a rare case of annular bullous pemphigoid in a 50-year-old male and offer a brief review of the literature. Only five other case reports, including three in adults, have described this unusual presentation, which can mimic other autoimmune blistering diseases, including linear IgA bullous dermatosis and pemphigus herpetiformis. Therefore, histopathology and immunologic studies were essential in properly diagnosing this patient. Our case supports that annular blistering lesions can be a clinical variant of bullous pemphigoid.
Evolving Approach in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome With Restrictive and Intact Septum
Authors: Generali Tommaso , Hermuzi Antony , Sajnach-Menke Magdalena , Johnson Anna , Crossland David S. , O’Sullivan John J. , Nassar Mohamed , Hasan Asif , De Rita Fabrizio
Published: April 2022

Background: Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with either intact atrial septum (IS) or highly restrictive interatrial communication (HRIC) is associated with poor survival. Immediate postpartum access to cardiac therapy and timely left atrial decompression (LAD) are paramount to a successful outcome. We describe herein our evolving approach to LAD and report interstage and longer-term results. Methods: We retrospectively identified neonates with HLHS IS/HRIC requiring LAD between 2005 and 2019. All babies had prenatal/postnatal echocardiography. Our LAD strategy evolved over time from attempt at transcatheter balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) to surgical septectomy with inflow occlusion, to hybrid trans-atrial stent implantation. Results: Twelve neonates required LAD at a median time of 14 (0.5-31) hours after birth. Five patients underwent BAS that proved successful in 2 cases. Of the 3 unsuccessful cases, 2 required extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support and died subsequently; one underwent hybrid trans-atrial stent implantation. Of the remaining 7 patients, 3 underwent surgical septectomy with inflow-occlusion and 4 underwent hybrid trans-atrial stent implantations. Overall, 8 patients survived LAD and reached Norwood palliation. Three of the 8 required ECMO postoperatively. There was no hospital mortality after Norwood stage 1 palliation and interstage survival was 100%. Six patients successfully underwent Glenn shunt (superior cavopulmonary anastomosis) and 5 have completed total cavopulmonary connection. Conclusions: Our experience suggests that prompt postnatal LAD can be safely achieved with careful multidisciplinary planning and accurate antenatal diagnosis. In our hands, hybrid trans-atrial septal stent insertion appears to be a safe approach which combines the versatility of transcatheter techniques together with the effectiveness of surgical control.
Surgical Management of Aortopulmonary Window and its Associated Cardiac Lesions
Authors: Reddy Chinnaswamy , Kaskar Ameya , Karthick Eswara , Siddaiah Satheesh , Kiran Viralam S , Suresh PujarVenkateshauarya
Published: April 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to review our institutional experience with patients who underwent surgical repair of aortopulmonary window, either as an isolated lesion or in association with other cardiac anomalies. Methods: Between January 2006 and December 2020, 183 patients underwent surgical repair of aortopulmonary window at our institute. Sixty-three patients had associated lesions (Group 1); 120 patients had isolated aortopulmonary window (Group 2). Median age was 7 months. Results: The early mortality in Group 1 was significantly higher (12.7%) compared to Group 2 (0.8%) ( P = .001). The most common associated anomaly was ventricular septal defect (29 patients). On univariable analysis, cardiopulmonary bypass time ( P < .001), aortic cross-clamp time ( P < .001), delayed chest closure ( P = .02), sepsis ( P = .006), tracheostomy ( P = .002), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ( P < .001), associated lesions ( P = .001), pulmonary artery hypertensive crisis ( P < .001) were predictors for early mortality. On multivariable analysis only pulmonary artery hypertensive crisis was identified as predictor for early mortality ( P = .03; odds ratio = 24). Survival at both 5 years and 8 years was 77% ± 6.5 in Group 1 and 98.8% ± 1.2 in Group 2 ( P≤.001). Freedom from reintervention at both 5 years and 8 years was 92.4% ± 5.2 in Group 1 and 100% in Group 2 ( P = .055). Conclusion: Early outcomes of aortopulmonary window repair are excellent among patients in which this is an isolated lesion, as compared to those with associated lesions. Long-term outcomes in terms of freedom from reoperation are excellent in both the groups.
Decreasing Mortality for STAT 4 and 5 Neonatal Heart Surgeries Concurrent With Improving Prenatal Detection: The Nevada Experience
Authors: Evans William N. , Acherman Ruben J. , Ciccolo Michael L. , Lehoux Juan , Restrepo Humberto
Published: April 2022

Objective: Our objective was to investigate whether a relationship existed between our center’s STAT 4 and 5 category surgical mortality and general-population prenatal detection rates in Nevada. Methods: We identified patients who underwent STAT 4 and 5 neonatal index cardiovascular surgeries at our center between October 2012 and September 2021. Additionally, we calculated prenatal detection rates for each of the 9 retrospective study years. We used descriptive statistics and nonparametric testing, including the Spearman Rho correlation ( R) and the Mann-Whitney U-tests, with a significant P-value set at < .05. Results: We identified 356 patients. We noted a statistically significant increasing trend in prenatal detection percentages (rho = 0.79, P = .01), concurrent with a statistically significant decreasing trend in surgical mortality (rho = −0.82, P = .007). Conclusions: Despite encouraging results, we could not establish a cause-and-effect relationship between concurrent decreased surgical mortality and increased prenatal detection rates for patients undergoing STAT 4 and 5 surgical procedures at our center.
Quality of Life of Mothers of Infants Subjected to Neonatal Cardiac Surgery: The Importance of Psychosocial Factors
Authors: Lisanti Amy Jo , Golfenshtein Nadya , Marino Bradley S. , Huang Liming , Hanlon Alexandra L. , Lozano Alicia J. , Curley Martha A.Q. , Medoff-Cooper Barbara
Published: April 2022

Background: The World Health Organization acknowledges quality of life (QOL) as subjectively perceived overall well-being by the individual and recognizes it as an essential construct for overall health and wellness. The purpose of this study was to examine the association of infant, environmental, and parental factors with the QOL of mothers of infants at four months post-hospital discharge from cardiac surgery. Methods: Secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from the REACH randomized clinical trial of telehealth home monitoring. The sample included mothers (n  =  148) of infants with congenital heart disease who provided data at four months post-discharge. Ten imputations were generated using fully conditional specification methods to address missing data and were combined. All analyses were performed on the imputed data. Mothers’ QOL was the main outcome of the analysis, as measured by the Ulm Quality of Life Inventory for Parents. Predictors on QOL were identified based on the World Health Organization QOL framework which recognizes the multidimensional domains influencing QOL that include personal factors, environmental factors, and physical factors related to disease and functioning. Results: The treatment and control groups did not differ on any study variable, thus data were collapsed and analyzed together. Final multivariable model found that the combination of dyadic adjustment, social support, parenting stress, and post-traumatic stress symptoms explained approximately three-quarters of the variance in QOL scores. Conclusions: QOL for mothers of infants with congenital heart disease is largely influenced by psychosocial factors. Future research targeted toward improving maternal QOL should include psychosocial interventions that address social networks and stress.
Understanding the Role of Proactive Personality in Occupational Health and Safety at Oil and Gas Service Stations in Accra
Authors: Bakidamteh Sandra A. , Teye-Kwadjo Enoch , Abdul-Nasiru Inusah
Published: April 2022

This study explored occupational health and safety among fuel pump attendants at selected oil and gas service stations in Accra, Ghana. Respondents completed a questionnaire battery on proactive personality, safety climate perceptions, safety compliance, and safety participation. Regression models showed that safety climate perceptions and proactive personality each had significant positive main effects on safety compliance and safety participation. Moreover, we found that the positive relationship between safety climate perceptions and safety compliance, and between safety climate perceptions and safety participation was weaker when proactivity was high than when it was low. The theoretical and managerial implications of the results are discussed.
Addressing Online Health Privacy Risks for Older Adults: A Perspective on Ethical Considerations and Recommendations
Authors: Friedman Ari B. , Pathmanabhan Chris , Glicksman Allen , Demiris George , Cappola Anne R. , McCoy Matthew S.
Published: April 2022

The rise in online health information seeking among older adults promises significant benefits but also presents potentially serious privacy risks. In light of these risks, we argue that ongoing research and advocacy aimed at promoting online health information seeking among older adults must be coupled with efforts to identify and address threats to their online privacy. We first detail how internet users reveal sensitive health information to third parties through seemingly innocuous web browsing. We then describe ethical concerns raised by the inadvertent disclosure of health information, which include the potential for dignitary harms, subjective injuries, online health scams, and discrimination. After reviewing ways in which existing privacy laws fail to meet the needs of older adults, we provide recommendations for individual and collective action to protect the online privacy of older adults.
Sleep Disturbance in the Context of HIV: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Pujasari Hening , Chung Min-Huey
Published: April 2022

Due to the differing definitions of the concept of sleep disturbance among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), reviewers in this area have not reached any firm conclusions. The study aimed to clarify and provide a stronger foundation for the definition of sleep disturbance in the context of HIV to enhance the concept’s development. Following Beth Rodgers’ concept analysis guidelines, two leading databases were searched, and 73 articles were used for this concept analysis. The attributes, surrogate terms, antecedents, and consequences of sleep disturbance have been identified using thematic analysis. In this analysis, two main attributes of sleep disturbance in the context of HIV were identified: a) subjective measures, including reduced total sleep time, difficulty falling asleep, nighttime and early morning awakenings, feeling sleepy and poorly rested after a night’s sleep, frequent arousals, and irritability, and b) objective measures, including changes in sleep architecture and sleep continuity. Five antecedents of sleep disturbance in the context of HIV were identified.

Meanwhile, the consequences of sleep disturbance in HIV are listed based on the frequency the points occur within the reviewed articles. The list is as follows: fatigue and pain; reduced neurocognitive functions; reduced health outcome and quality of life; poor anti-retroviral (ARV) therapy adherence; daytime sleepiness; depression, anxiety, and maladaptive coping; increased disease progression and cardiovascular mortality; and social phobia, living arrangement and sexual dysfunction. An improved understanding of sleep disturbance in the context of HIV will be beneficial in directing analysts to develop research plans. At the same time, the knowledge gaps identified in the analysis provided a solid basis for further study intending to fill in these gaps.
Intersectoral communication amongst healthcare providers regarding care plans: a scoping review
Authors: Langley Jodi , Jelicic Nikolas , Hill Taylor G. , Kervin Emily , Pesut Barbara , Duggleby Wendy , Warner Grace
Published: April 2022

Palliative care has become an increasingly important public health issue due to the rising acceptance of implementing a health promoting palliative care approach. To explore communication pathways that would facilitate implementation of this approach, we conducted a scoping review examining communication and enactment of care plans for older adults with life-limiting illnesses across health, social and community sectors. We used a scoping review methodology to map the current literature on communication plans between primary care and other sectors (community, health, and social). Five databases were searched MEDLINE (ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), EMBASE (Elsevier), PsychInfo (EBSCO), and Scopus. The database search identified 5,289 records, after screening and hand-searching a total of 28 articles were extracted. Three major themes were determined through the records: (1) the importance of professional relationships across sectors, (2) the importance of community navigators in sharing the care plan, and (3) and creating comprehensive and multidisciplinary care plans. Findings suggested that enacting quality care plans is important to healthcare providers; the use of an electronic health records system can be useful in ensuring that all healthcare and community systems are in place to aid patients for better community-based care. Community navigators were also key to ensure that plans are communicated properly and efficiently. Further research is needed to determine how having a clear and properly implemented communication system for a healthcare system could facilitate community sector involvement in implementing care plans.
Exploring the Perspective of Diabetes, Diabetes Self-Management, and Quality of Life Among Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Study Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tan Jamaica Pei Ying , Seah Siang Joo , Harding Susana Concordo , Pay Jin Yu , Wang Jing , Aw Su , Lam Jocelin , Boon Tar Lim Raymond
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to explore the perspective and impact of diabetes, diabetes self-management, and quality of life (QoL) among older adults with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic to better inform T2DM self-management interventions.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive approach with focus group discussions (n = 5 sessions with 5-6 older adults per session) and in-depth interviews (n = 15) was conducted with community-dwelling older adults with T2DM.

Results

Five themes emerged. The definition of diabetes carries negative connotations, QoL is defined in terms of biopsychosocial health, diabetes self-management refers to the ability to adhere to medical advice and lifestyle changes, the QoL of older adults is differentially affected by COVID-19 measures, and important aspects of diabetes self-management activities are impacted by COVID-19 measures.

Conclusions

Understanding older adults’ perspectives on diabetes, diabetes self-management, and QoL provided insights into the facilitators and barriers to diabetes self-management practices before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings inform the need for greater bottom-up initiatives and the need for a multipronged approach that considers the intra- and interpersonal and current policy factors to encourage diabetes self-management behaviors, especially during the COVID-19 era.