bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palliative Care in Advanced Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia: Evaluation of the Answers Given by Caregivers and Physicians to the Accuracy of Surprise Question, as a Prognostic Tool
Authors: Yuyama Erika Kiyomi , Lima Nereida Kilza da Costa , Ferrioli Eduardo , dos Santos André Filipe Junqueira , Amorim Rivia Siqueira , Moriguti Julio Cesar
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. The surprise question (SQ) “Would you be surprised if this patient were to die within the next 12 months?” was used to identify death-risk patients, who could benefit from palliative care. Objective: To examine the prognostic accuracy of the SQ by physicians and caregivers in outpatients with AD dementia. Methods: This is a longitudinal and prospective study involving 101 patients along 1 year, applying the SAS 9.2 software and adopting a .05 P-value to assess the variables that influenced answers to the accuracy of SQ using the chi-square test. Results: 27 patients (26.7%) died during the follow-up. When caregivers answered the SQ, it presented a 51.8% sensitivity (CI 31.9 - 71.3), a 66.7% negative predictive value (20.7 - 63.6), a 56.2% specificity (CI 29.8 - 80.2), and a 40.9% positive predictive value of (CI 43.0 - 85.4) with a 53.4% accuracy (CI 38.5 - 68.4). When physicians answered, the SQ had an 88.8% sensitivity (CI 70.8 - 97.6), a 40% negative predictive value (CI 5.2 - 85.3), a 12.5% specificity (CI 1.5 - 38.3), a 63.1% positive predictive value (CI 45.9 - 78.1) with a 60.4% accuracy (CI 45.8 - 75). Conclusion: SQ remains a good tool with high sensitivity for the identification of patients with advanced AD dementia when presented to the attending physician for planning palliative advanced care with accuracy of 60.4% and caregivers’ accuracy of 53.4%.
When do Autocrats Create Sovereign Wealth Funds?
Authors: Eldredge Cody D. , Fails Matthew D.
Published: August 2022

The recent proliferation of Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) in authoritarian regimes is puzzling. While SWFs can generate political, financial, and geopolitical benefits in the long-term, their creation also sharply impedes an autocrat’s ability to fund current patronage and other regime-stabilizing public and private goods. What explains the creation of autocratic SWFs? We argue that sovereign wealth funds are more likely to emerge when autocratic leaders possess a high degree of policy-making autonomy. Policy-making autonomy allows leaders to override any opposition from regime insiders who might prefer to keep capital at home and available for patronage. At the same time, such leaders are more politically secure, and thus are more confident that they will remain in power to reap the medium to long-term financial rewards of these funds. We operationalize this concept with indicators that measure whether an autocrat has consolidated their authority over the regime’s party infrastructure and employ survival analysis on a global sample of autocratic regimes from 1960–2010. We find robust support for our argument and describe how our findings provide new insights on the political determinants of sovereign wealth funds and the consequences of authoritarian power-sharing institutions.
Can CEO Activism Be Good for the Organization? The Importance of Authenticity, Morality, and Timeliness
Authors: Jin Jie , Mitson Renee , Qin Yufan Sunny , Vielledent Marc , Men Linjuan Rita
Published: August 2022

This research presents a model connecting the perceived morality, authenticity, and timeliness (MAT) of CEO activism to consumer trust and supportive behaviors (e.g., consumer advocacy and intention to work) toward the CEO’s organization. The results show that perceived MAT of CEO activism are positively associated with Millennial and Gen-Z consumers’ trust toward the CEO’s organization. There was a strong and positive association between consumer trust and consumers’ supportive behaviors. This model will advance theoretical understanding of how CEO activism can effectively contribute to younger consumer outcomes.
Assessing Patient Satisfaction: Using the Radiation Oncology Patient Satisfaction [ROPS] Questionnaire in a Private Practice Setting
Authors: Pettegrew Loyd S , Clements Meredith L , Scacco Joshua M , Miller Robert
Published: August 2022

A new patient satisfaction measure called the Radiation Oncology Patient Satisfaction (ROPS) questionnaire is used in this study to measure satisfaction data for radiation oncology in private practice. Limitations of existing literature on patient satisfaction demonstrated a need to develop a questionnaire that was more tailored to analyze patient satisfaction among those utilizing private oncology centers within the U.S. healthcare system. This need was met by this study’s development of the ROPS questionnaire, which was a variation of 2 existing constructs that are presented in the text. The questionnaire was fielded among patients at a private cancer radiation treatment clinic in Florida (n = 950). Data analysis tested the psychometric properties of our revised construct and its predictive validity for 2 patient satisfaction outcomes: (1) likelihood of recommending this treatment center to family members/close friends and (2) overall satisfaction with treatment. Each of the ROPS variables were found to make a legitimate contribution to evaluating patients’ overall satisfaction with radiation treatment. Findings indicated organizational setting was of vital importance when conducting patient- centered research on satisfaction. Treatment factors in ROPS can be adjusted to measure satisfaction with chemotherapy or other modalities in addition to radiation treatment. Authors recommend radiation oncology clinics regularly monitor patient satisfaction, especially if/when they experience organizational changes, such as when a new physician joins the practice or if/when the national or local landscape undergoes significant shifts in norms and expectations like we have seen happen with COVID-19.
Deaf Identity Salience: Tracing Daphne’s Deaf Identity Salience Through Switched at Birth
Authors: DeCarsky Ryan , Harvey Penny , Johnston Sally W
Published: August 2022

Mainstream television scarcely features Deaf persons. When they do, they are usually cameo, secondary, and rarely multidimensional characters. This paper examines Deaf identity of a main character, Daphne Vasquez, on the popular show Switched at Birth. We analyze moments where Daphne’s identity, a constructed Deaf identity, is showcased. We map how her identity is salient across seasons and then examine key moments of identity formation as Daphne negotiates her Deafness. We find a strong display of Deaf identity salience and impactful moments in the show that resulted in more positive, holistic representations of Deafness. In recent years, the media has come under increased scrutiny for limited representations of minority identities; this case study seeks to contribute to that conversation by studying a show explicitly focused on increased representation. This work is important as it not only examines a show which successfully features a character with a traditionally stigmatized identity but simultaneously quantifies how that identity is invoked as a message to viewers. This paper bridges cultural sociology with social psychology to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of identity representation in entertainment media and comments directly on the social impact of Daphne’s character on Deaf presence in 21st century media.
Vested in support: Applying vested interest theory to increase support for close others with depression
Authors: Marshburn Alexander , Siegel Jason T
Published: August 2022

Guided by vested interest theory, we assessed whether a lack of stake explains the discrepancy between people having positive attitudes toward their loved one’s recovery from depression and the provision of support. We further investigated whether increasing the perceived personal consequences of providing support (i.e. stake) increased willingness to provide support. A stake-boosting message had no direct, but significant indirect effects on willingness to provide support when compared to a control and comparison condition. In summary, increasing stake in a loved one’s recovery indirectly increases intentions to provide support.
Mechanical properties and environmental performance of seawater sea-sand self-compacting Concrete
Authors: Yang Bi-xuan , Xie Tian-yu , Yu Yong , Zheng Yu , Xu Jin-jun
Published: August 2022

Due to the constituted ingredients are both rich in reserves, seawater sea-sand self-compacting concrete (SWSS-SCC) today has been treated as an ideal material in constructing island and coastal structures. The technique feasibility of applying SWSS-SCC in real engineering has been recognized by investigating the material properties, but its environmental impacts (EIs) has rarely been concerned at current stage. Under such a background, a refined life cycle assessment model of SWSS-SCC was developed in this study based on the China’s latest production data. Life cycle phases considered include extracting and preparing raw materials, component material production, mixing concrete and transportation occurred in the whole processes. After verifying the model, the impacts of several factors like concrete curing method, fly ash incorporation content, sea-sand transportation distance and electricity generation approach, which have never been investigated before, on the energy cost and carbon dioxide equivalent emissions generated in manufacturing SWSS-SCC were discussed. The simulated results showed that: (a) Using seawater and sea-sand slightly increases the concrete’s compressive and tensile strengths. Replacing some cement with fly ash notably decreases the early-age strengths, but curing at 60°C can offset that effect. (b) Replacing fresh water and natural sand by sea-water and sand in Humen Town decreases the production EIs of SWSS-SCC. For this concrete, cement production and raw material transportation are the main contributors to the overall EIs. (c) During producing SWSS-SCC, using electricity generated from clean fuels can effectively reduce the system’s EI, but changing fuel used to fire the cement kiln has little effect. (d) High temperature curing to increase the fly ash content is not environmentally sound. Reducing the mixture’s water to binder ratio is more benefit for incorporating fly ash. (e) From an environmental evaluation view, applying SWSS-SCC is more ecological in island constructions than coastal buildings.
Changes in Nursing Home Populations Challenge Practice and Policy
Authors: Laws M. Barton , Beeman Aly , Haigh Sylvia , Wilson Ira B. , Shield Renée R.
Published: August 2022

U.S. nursing homes (NH) have a growing prevalence of individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) and substance use disorders (SUD), and an associated increasing proportion of people under 65. We explored how Directors of Nursing (DONs) perceive challenges and strategies in caring for these populations. We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with 32 DONs from diverse facilities around the U.S. Participants reported that people with SUD and SMI often present behavioral challenges requiring resource intensive responses, while regulations constrain optimal medication treatment. Younger individuals are considered more demanding of staff and impatient with traditional NH activities designed for older people. Some NHs report they screen out people with behavioral health disorders; they tend to be concentrated in NHs in economically disadvantaged communities. Individuals may remain in NHs because suitable settings for discharge are unavailable. These developments constitute a back door “re-institutionalization” of people with behavioral health disorders, and a growing crisis.
Qualitative Analyses of Couples’ Text Messages: Methods Reflection
Authors: Montanaro Erika A. , Bowling Jessamyn , Gattuso Jennifer , Gioia Diana , Guerrero-Ordonez Sarai , Joshi Stuti , Campbell Sydney , Harrison Meredith
Published: August 2022

Qualitative data analysis of text messages presents a unique methodological challenge for researchers and is largely absent specific guidelines to determine best practices in analysis as well as team management. This is especially true when the text messages are sexual and intimate in nature as researchers have new insight into previously private partnered communication. This research note explores the challenges and considerations in qualitative text message, specifically sexting, research. Although most current text message research is quantitative in nature rather than using qualitative analyses, the ubiquity of text messaging as a form of communication necessitates other approaches. Specifically, we explore how emotional this type of study can be for researchers and provide recommendations for how to manage researchers’ interactions with the data. We also discuss how reading and coding sexts and text messages between new couples can force researchers to uncomfortably reflect on their own relationships and how best to manage these challenges. We propose that this work is “messy” and teams interested in analysis of text messages should be structurally prepared for the emotional labor required.
Modeling and bifurcation analysis of a hydraulic actuator system with different valve spool geometry
Authors: Jian Hongchao , Du Minggang , Gu Hongtao
Published: August 2022

The valve spools of hydraulic actuator systems are usually designed into various geometries to achieve different flow characters. Because of the coupling nonlinear flow rate-pressure character and dynamic motion of the valve spool, self-excited vibration can happen in some working conditions of the system, which can lead to unexpected dynamic performance. The object of this paper is to investigate the stability of a hydraulic system with three different spool geometries, a normal sharp edge spool, a spool with chamfer, and a spool with u shape notches. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of flow force and flow rate under different pressure difference and valve openings are proposed to obtain the pressure-flow characters of flow field inside the valves with different spool geometries. A nonlinear dynamic model of the actuator system dynamics is established basing on the CFD results of pressure control valve and the system. Numerical Bifurcation analyses are carried out to study the effect of spool geometries on the bifurcation point of the system. Simulation results suggest that the spool geometries can affect the flow characters of the valve and decrease the stable region of the parameter plane.
Locally- and globally-oriented L2 teacher education research: A synchronic analysis of topics and research methodologies
Authors: Meihami Hussein , Husseini Fateme
Published: August 2022

Research in second language teacher education (SLTE) is critical for making short- and long-term policies and decisions about SLTE programs, materials, methods, etc. Therefore, it is essential to know the “what,” “how,” and “where” of SLTE research. Hence, the purpose of this synchronic study was to investigate research topics (what) and the research methodologies (how) of SLTE papers published in international and Iranian journals (where) between 2014 and 2020. To that end, we investigated a corpus, including 100 articles, consisting of 50 SLTE papers published in seven international journals and 50 SLTE papers published in seven Iranian journals. Results indicated that while there were significant differences in using qualitative and quantitative research methodologies by SLTE papers published in international and Iranian journals, there were no significant differences in using mixed methods in those journals. Moreover, results showed that the most frequent SLTE topics addressed in the papers published in international and Iranian journals were teacher professional development, teacher psychology, teacher identity, teacher cognition, teacher belief, teacher knowledge, practitioner research, teacher education design, sociocultural theory, teacher practice, and teacher and culture. However, there were no significant differences in SLTE topics addressed in the SLTE papers published in international and Iranian journals.
Multidimensional analysis of players’ responses in basketball small-sided games: The impact of changing game rules
Authors: Bredt Sarah da Glória Teles , Camargo Daniel de Souza , Torres Juliana de Oliveira , Praça Gibson Moreira , de Andrade André Gustavo Pereira , Paolucci Leopoldo Augusto , da Costa Israel Teoldo , Chagas Mauro Heleno
Published: August 2022

This study followed a cross-sectional design and aimed to compare the offensive and defensive tactical-technical actions and the physical and physiological responses between four 3vs.3 basketball small-sided games (SSGs) played on the half-court: with regular rules (3vs.3REGULAR), with defensive pressure (3vs.3DEFPRESS), with the close-shot rule (3vs.3CLOSESHOT), and with offensive numerical superiority (4vs.3). Fifty-one U-14 and U-15 male athletes participated in the study. They were divided into 3-player teams and played one 4-min bout of each SSG type. Heart rate and the time spent in four acceleration zones (0.0–0.5, 0.5–1.0, 1.0–1.5, and 1.5–2.0 g) were recorded using heart rate monitors and triaxial accelerometers. SSGs were filmed for the analysis of Space Creation Dynamics and defensive tactical-technical actions. Results showed a higher frequency of space creation without the ball and a mean number of passes per offense in the 4vs.3, with this SSG showing higher offensive performance than the 3vs.3CLOSESHOT (large effect sizes). Defensive behavior was significantly impacted by all rules: in general, 4vs.3 presented the highest frequency of closeouts, 3vs.3DEFPRESS increased the frequency of close off-ball marking and the 3vs.3CLOSESHOT increased the frequency of double-teaming, all differences presenting large effect sizes. Heart rate and the time spent in moderate and high accelerations (zones 2 and 3) were the highest with defensive pressure and the lowest with numerical superiority; heart rate and accelerations in the close-shot rule are higher than in numerical superiority but similar to the 3vs.3REGULAR. We concluded that the SSGs investigated in this study can stimulate different offensive and defensive actions and be used to develop the performance of basketball athletes.
The implementation of the CJEU’s Joined Cases Aranyosi and Caldararu by the UK and Irish Courts – A real impact on the protection of fundamental rights in surrender proceedings?
Authors: Gilbert Zara
Published: August 2022

This article explores the subsequent change in balance between efficiency and fundamental rights protection in surrender proceedings following the Joined Cases Aranyosi and Caldararu. The impact of Aranyosi and Caldararu on the UK courts examines the UK’s implementation of the two-tier test in surrender proceedings prior to Brexit under the EAW system and Extradition Act 2003. It argues that despite Aranyosi institutionalising the use of assurances, the system does not lead to an actual improvement of fundamental rights protection as firstly, assurances are often breached, and secondly, the UK Courts do not attribute weight to such breaches, maintaining trust in the relevant country in future cases. The impact of Aranyosi and Caldararu on the Irish courts analyses judicial decisions pre- Aranyosi and post- Aranyosi. It illustrates that by setting a very high threshold for the respondent to overcome to find a violation of fundamental rights successfully, there has not been a real impact on the protection of fundamental rights in surrender proceedings. Exploring how these national courts apply the CJEU’s standards of fundamental rights checks in surrender procedures provides real insight into whether Aranyosi has had a revolutionary impact in practice.
Dynamic response and safety control of civil air defense tunnel group during the whole process of underpass tunnel blasting excavation
Authors: Yang Feng , Jiang Nan , Zhou Chuanbo , Lyu Guopeng , Yao Yingkang
Published: August 2022

To ensure the safety and stability of adjacent underground structures is a key problem for the subway tunnel blasting construction. In this paper, there is a tunnel group (Sheshan civil air defense engineering) composed of several tunnel units right above a subway tunnel under blasting construction (Wuhan Metro Line 5). The vibration of the tunnel group induced by two blasting excavations of the subway tunnel was monitored. For further research, an effective 3D numerical model established by LS-DYNA, which was verified by field monitoring data, was used to analyze the dynamic response of the tunnel group in the whole process of the subway tunnel blasting. According to the numerical simulation results, the dynamic response characteristics of each tunnel unit were studied, and the most vulnerable area in each tunnel unit was determined. Then, the functional relationships between the maximum vibration velocities and the maximum tensile stresses of the vulnerable areas were established. Based on the maximum tensile stress criterion, the safety vibration velocity threshold of each vulnerable area was calculated using the relationship models. Furthermore, for convenient field monitoring during the subway construction, the safety vibration threshold at the floor of the tunnel group was also calculated. Lastly, to obtain the maximum charge per delay, five cut blasting with different charges were simulated. The maximum charge of the cut blasting in different stages of the subway tunnel blasting excavation was proposed. The research results of this paper have reference value for the blasting vibration safety control of similar tunnel excavation projects in the future.
Esophageal polyp in a teenage boy with eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Schor Berni , Blanco Paola , Rivera-Nieves Desiree , Wilsey Michael , Karjoo Sara
Published: August 2022

The association of eosinophilic esophagitis and esophageal polyps has been reported in the literature but remains a rare finding in both adults and children. The patient in this case report presented with progressively worsening dysphagia secondary to eosinophilic esophagitis and an esophageal polyp. Dysphagia is always abnormal, and endoscopic evaluation is essential. Dysphagia is a well-known symptom in patients with eosinophilic esophagitis. While esophageal polyps as a whole are less common in the pediatric population, they should not be overlooked as a possible cause of dysphagia and esophageal obstruction.
Cerebral sinuses thrombosis prior to the diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a child: A case report
Authors: Sherief Laila M , Zakaria Marwa , Soliman Basma K , Kamal Naglaa M , Alharthi Sultan A , Abosabie Sara AS , Abdelazeem Mahmoud
Published: August 2022

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is the most common malignancy in children. In children, venous thromboembolism is relatively common. In most cases, venous thromboembolism manifests in patients who are diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Several risk factors associated with acute lymphoblastic leukemia predispose patients to the development of venous thromboembolism. Unlike most reported cases of venous thromboembolism, herein we report a child who developed cerebral venous sinus thrombosis prior to the diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The patient recovered from an attack of acute gastroenteritis with sepsis, pancytopenia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation 2 weeks before the development of thrombosis. Her laboratory workup for coagulopathy and disseminated intravascular coagulation was normal at the time of diagnosis of cerebral sinus thrombosis. The genetic workup for thrombophilia risk identified several genetic thrombophilia mutations: the homozygous factor XIII V34L and MTHFR A1298C mutations and heterozygous factor V Leiden mutation. Three weeks later, the patient was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, it remains questionable whether the thrombotic event was caused by the previous infection of gastroenteritis, sepsis, and disseminated intravascular coagulation picture (which was augmented by her genetic thrombophilia risk), or was it caused by acute lymphoblastic leukemia (that was not detected at early stages with its associated hypercoagulable state), or was it caused by a type of paraneoplastic syndrome. A multifactorial etiology is proposed.
The Factors of Continuance Intention to Use Mobile Payments in Sudan
Authors: Sleiman Kamal Abubker Abrahim , Jin Wang , Juanli Lan , Lei Hong Zhen , Cheng Jingyi , Ouyang Yuanxin , Rong Wenge
Published: August 2022

The advancement of technology in the field of telecommunications and increasing use of smartphones worldwide has simplified the purchasing and payment process via mobile devices. This new payment method enables people to enjoy services in a flexible and convenient manner while going about their daily activities. This study explores the continued use of mobile payment antecedents in Sudan. A total of 453 questionnaires were collected; SPSS and AMOS were used to test the proposed theoretical model using structural equation modeling. According to the findings, satisfaction was the most important factor in the intention to use mobile payment. Hedonic motivation and price value were found to have a negative influence on the intention to use mobile payment in Sudan.
Therapeutic journey of adolescents and young adults with severe dysmenorrhea and endometriosis
Authors: Le Roux Anique , McCall Jennifer , Pudwell Jessica , Pyper Jamie S , Bougie Olga
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

We aimed to appreciate the diagnostic and therapeutic journey of young women with endometriosis including disease presentation, obstacles to diagnosis and management, and impact on their life.

Methods:

We employed a mixed-method design, including chart review, 94-item questionnaire assembled from components of the EPHect EPQ-S and semi-structured interviews. The study setting was Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, Ontario. Participants were women under 28 years with severe dysmenorrhea. Questionnaire data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Interviews were coded using the constant comparative analysis method by two analyzers and inter-rater reliability was calculated, then data were compared using a cross-sectional method.

Results:

Twenty-four participants were identified through chart review, 10 completed the questionnaire, and 5 participated in the interviews. Questionnaire participants, mean age 24.5 years ± 2.3, reported initial pelvic pain at a mean age of 13.9 years (SD 1.9). Fifty percent of participants have an endometriosis diagnosis, at a mean age of 19.2 years (SD 2.6). Three major themes emerged from our analysis. The journey with disease and therapy begins long before diagnosis and creates a culture of self-directed care. Lack of knowledge about endometriosis and women’s health by health care professionals and the public delays diagnosis and therapy. Endometriosis broadly impacts every aspect of an individual’s life.

Conclusion:

We found that young adults with severe dysmenorrhea and/or endometriosis present with symptoms at a young age. They encounter multiple obstacles in reaching a diagnosis and obtaining therapy. They often self-manage their pelvic pain and experience reduced quality of life.
MyStory, YourStory, OurStory: Literacy Development in the Black Church Past, Present, & Future
Authors: Thompson McMillon Gwendolyn
Published: August 2022

The Black Church is the oldest anti-racist institution in America. Having educated generations of Black families, birthed schools, universities, hospitals, financial institutions, various music genres, and nurtured numerous advocates and martyrs for freedom, including access to literacy, it is directly responsible for many of the most significant gains in racial equity in American history. Yet, the Black Church has largely been ignored in conversations concerning the best way to educate Black students in America's schools. A question for the 21st century is: What can educators, particularly literacy researchers, learn from the Black Church? The Black Church is an extremely underutilized resource from which educators could learn best practices in literacy education to potentially reduce educational inequities with persistence. What are some of these best practices? How and why are they implemented in the learning environment of the Black Church? When simultaneously discussing the historical development of the Black Church and the literacy development of African Americans, it becomes apparent that they portray a mutually reinforcing relationship. This growth, based on a foundation of Black Liberation Theology and a continuous need to fight racism, developed from the initial need for a unified response to the slavemasters’ efforts to justify slavery with a perverted interpretation of the Christian Bible. This detailed discussion of the Black Church's origins, historical development, and contemporary practices will highlight the complex connections between religion, literacy, language, relationships, and politics, and inform scholarship of the Black Church's role as the established expert in the education of Black people.
The Brain Understands Social Relationships: The Emerging Field of Functional-Connectome-Based Interpersonal Research
Authors: Kajimura Shogo , Ito Ayahito
Published: August 2022

Human functional brain imaging research over the last 2 decades has shown that data from resting-state brain activity can help predict various psychological and pathological variables and brain function during tasks. However, most variables have been attributed to the individual brain. Recently, several studies have aimed to understand interpersonal relationships based on inter-individual similarity or dissimilarity of functional connectome. In this commentary, we introduce the studies that have opened up a new era of interpersonal research using human brain imaging.
Reworking the political in digital forests: The cosmopolitics of socio-technical worlds
Authors: Gabrys Jennifer , Westerlaken Michelle , Urzedo Danilo , Ritts Max , Simlai Trishant
Published: August 2022

Forests are increasingly central to policies and initiatives to address global environmental change. Digital technologies have become crucial components of these projects as the tools and systems that would monitor and manage forests for storing carbon, preserving biodiversity, and providing ecosystem services. Historically, technologies have been instrumental in forming forests as spaces of conservation, extraction, and inhabitation. Digital technologies build on previous techniques of forest management, which have been shaped by colonial governance, expert science, and economic growth. However, digital technologies for achieving environmental initiatives can also extend, transform, and disrupt these sedimented practices. This article asks how the convergence of forests and digital technologies gives rise to different socio-technical formations and modalities of “political forests.” Through an analysis of five digital operations, including 1) observation, 2) datafication, 3) participation, 4) automation, and 5) regulation and transformation, we investigate how the co-constitution of forests, technologies, subjects, and social life creates distinct materializations of politics–and cosmopolitics. By building on and expanding the concept of cosmopolitics, we query how the political is designated through digital forest projects and how it might be reworked to generate less extractive environmental practices and relations while contributing to more just and pluralistic forest worlds.
Composition analysis of exudates produced by conifers grown in Taiwan and their antifungal activity
Authors: Tsao Nai-Wen , Lin Yen-Chi , Tseng Yen-Hsueh , Chien Shih-Chang , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: August 2022

Exudates are involved in the defense mechanism of trees; they could work against insects or microorganisms through a physical or chemical system. The main components of exudates are terpenoids. This study identified the main compounds of exudates from 13 conifers of Taiwan using gas chromatogram–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and spectroscopic analysis. The results revealed that the main volatiles were α-pinene, β-ocimene, β-pinene, sabinene, and caryophyllene. On the other hand, the main nonvolatile compounds were diterpenoids, which were classified into three skeletons (abietane-, labdane-, and pimarane-types). Among these, abietane-type presented in Pinaceae and in most of Cupressaceae; labdane-type presented in Pinaceae and in all of Cupressaceae and Araucariaceae; pimarane-type existed in both Pinaceae and Cupressaceae. Furthermore, the epigenetics of conifers analysis results by GC–MS and heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) fingerprints were similar to traditional taxonomy classification; it indicated that exudates chemotaxonomy by using GC–MS and HSQC profiling is a useful technology to classify the conifers. Besides, the exudates of Pinus elliottii, Pinus taiwanensis, Calocedrus macrolepis and Chamaecyparis formosensis possessed the strong antifungal activity. For white-rot fungus, Trametes versicolor, Pinus morrisonicola, Chamaecyparis obtusa, and Araucaria heterophylla exhibited the higher antifungal index. For brown-rot fungus, Laetiporus sulphureus, Pinus elliottii, Pinus morrisonicola, and Chamaecyparis formosensis revealed a good antifungal activity.
Identifying host-specific amino acid signatures for influenza A viruses using an adjusted entropy measure
Authors: Zhang Yixiang , Eskridge Kent M. , Zhang Shunpu , Lu Guoqing
Published: August 2022

Background

Influenza A viruses (IAV) exhibit vast genetic mutability and have great zoonotic potential to infect avian and mammalian hosts and are known to be responsible for a number of pandemics. A key computational issue in influenza prevention and control is the identification of molecular signatures with cross-species transmission potential. We propose an adjusted entropy-based host-specific signature identification method that uses a similarity coefficient to incorporate the amino acid substitution information and improve the identification performance. Mutations in the polymerase genes (e.g., PB2) are known to play a major role in avian influenza virus adaptation to mammalian hosts. We thus focus on the analysis of PB2 protein sequences and identify host specific PB2 amino acid signatures.

Results

Validation with a set of H5N1 PB2 sequences from 1996 to 2006 results in adjusted entropy having a 40% false negative discovery rate compared to a 60% false negative rate using unadjusted entropy. Simulations across different levels of sequence divergence show a false negative rate of no higher than 10% while unadjusted entropy ranged from 9 to 100%. In addition, under all levels of divergence adjusted entropy never had a false positive rate higher than 9%. Adjusted entropy also identifies important mutations in H1N1pdm PB2 previously identified in the literature that explain changes in divergence between 2008 and 2009 which unadjusted entropy could not identify.

Conclusions

Based on these results, adjusted entropy provides a reliable and widely applicable host signature identification approach useful for IAV monitoring and vaccine development.
Cluster randomised trials with a binary outcome and a small number of clusters: comparison of individual and cluster level analysis method
Authors: Thompson Jennifer A. , Leyrat Clemence , Fielding Katherine L. , Hayes Richard J.
Published: August 2022

Background

Cluster randomised trials (CRTs) are often designed with a small number of clusters, but it is not clear which analysis methods are optimal when the outcome is binary. This simulation study aimed to determine (i) whether cluster-level analysis (CL), generalised linear mixed models (GLMM), and generalised estimating equations with sandwich variance (GEE) approaches maintain acceptable type-one error including the impact of non-normality of cluster effects and low prevalence, and if so (ii) which methods have the greatest power. We simulated CRTs with 8–30 clusters, altering the cluster-size, outcome prevalence, intracluster correlation coefficient, and cluster effect distribution. We analysed each dataset with weighted and unweighted CL; GLMM with adaptive quadrature and restricted pseudolikelihood; GEE with Kauermann-and-Carroll and Fay-and-Graubard sandwich variance using independent and exchangeable working correlation matrices. P-values were from a t-distribution with degrees of freedom (DoF) as clusters minus cluster-level parameters; GLMM pseudolikelihood also used Satterthwaite and Kenward-Roger DoF.

Results

Unweighted CL, GLMM pseudolikelihood, and Fay-and-Graubard GEE with independent or exchangeable working correlation matrix controlled type-one error in > 97% scenarios with clusters minus parameters DoF. Cluster-effect distribution and prevalence of outcome did not usually affect analysis method performance. GEE had the least power. With 20–30 clusters, GLMM had greater power than CL with varying cluster-size but similar power otherwise; with fewer clusters, GLMM had lower power with common cluster-size, similar power with medium variation, and greater power with large variation in cluster-size.

Conclusion

We recommend that CRTs with ≤ 30 clusters and a binary outcome use an unweighted CL or restricted pseudolikelihood GLMM both with DoF clusters minus cluster-level parameters.
Leveraging artificial intelligence and data science techniques in harmonizing, sharing, accessing and analyzing SARS-COV-2/COVID-19 data in Rwanda (LAISDAR Project): study design and rationale
Authors: Nishimwe Aurore , Ruranga Charles , Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Mugeni Regine , Semakula Muhammed , Nzabanita Joseph , Kabano Ignace , Uwimana Annie , Utumatwishima Jean N. , Kabakambira Jean Damascene , Uwineza Annette , Halvorsen Lars , Descamps Freija , Houghtaling Jared , Burke Benjamin , Bahati Odile , Bizimana Clement , Jansen Stefan , Twizere Celestin , Nkurikiyeyezu Kizito , Birungi Francine , Nsanzimana Sabin , Twagirumukiza Marc
Published: August 2022

Background

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic in Rwanda, a vast amount of SARS-COV-2/COVID-19-related data have been collected including COVID-19 testing and hospital routine care data. Unfortunately, those data are fragmented in silos with different data structures or formats and cannot be used to improve understanding of the disease, monitor its progress, and generate evidence to guide prevention measures. The objective of this project is to leverage the artificial intelligence (AI) and data science techniques in harmonizing datasets to support Rwandan government needs in monitoring and predicting the COVID-19 burden, including the hospital admissions and overall infection rates.

Methods

The project will gather the existing data including hospital electronic health records (EHRs), the COVID-19 testing data and will link with longitudinal data from community surveys. The open-source tools from Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics (OHDSI) will be used to harmonize hospital EHRs through the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model (CDM). The project will also leverage other OHDSI tools for data analytics and network integration, as well as R Studio and Python. The network will include up to 15 health facilities in Rwanda, whose EHR data will be harmonized to OMOP CDM.

Expected results

This study will yield a technical infrastructure where the 15 participating hospitals and health centres will have EHR data in OMOP CDM format on a local Mac Mini (“data node”), together with a set of OHDSI open-source tools. A central server, or portal, will contain a data catalogue of participating sites, as well as the OHDSI tools that are used to define and manage distributed studies. The central server will also integrate the information from the national Covid-19 registry, as well as the results of the community surveys. The ultimate project outcome is the dynamic prediction modelling for COVID-19 pandemic in Rwanda.

Discussion

The project is the first on the African continent leveraging AI and implementation of an OMOP CDM based federated data network for data harmonization. Such infrastructure is scalable for other pandemics monitoring, outcomes predictions, and tailored response planning.
International guidelines to inform policy development to address client violence in South Africa: an ATA-document analysis
Authors: Pretorius Lucé , Herbst Alida G.
Published: August 2022

Background

Research shows that the most typical response to client violence has been to implement policies that safeguard social workers at their workplaces. This article examined, through a document analysis, the international norms for the protection of social workers. The goal of the document analysis was to inform policy development in South Africa against client violence.

Methods

The researchers found, selected, analysed, and synthesised 17 international policies, frameworks, protocols, guidelines, and legislative frameworks using the applied thematic analysis (ATA) approach. The data was analysed at three levels, and open coding yielded 18 codes.

Results

The codes were refined into three main themes and subthemes related to protecting social workers from client violence: (1) employers inspired a culture of safety and security within the work-environment, (2) social workers prioritised their safety by using their clinical skills, and (3) actively implementing initiatives to ensure the safety of social workers.

Conclusions

The research highlighted social work safety while providing services at an office, visiting sites, or traveling. Examining these practicalities provided valuable data that can inform policy development processes in different countries.
Effectiveness comparison of inpatient vs. outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation: a systematic review
Authors: Molinier Virginie , Alexandre François , Heraud Nelly
Published: August 2022

Background

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is the cornerstone of nonpharmacological treatments in chronic respiratory disease (CRD) management. PR can be performed in different settings, the most frequent of which are inpatient (inPR) and outpatient (outPR) management. In the literature, these two distinct modalities are generally considered to be the same intervention. Yet, they differ in terms of the length of stay, social support, and the time the patient is not in their normal environment, and the presumed absence of differences in terms of efficacy has never been established.

Purpose

To identify studies that directly compared the effects of inPR and outPR on patients with all types of CRDs through a systematic review and to synthesize the evidence regarding the effectiveness comparison of both modalities.

Methods

A literature search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library on 24 March 2022. The inclusion criteria were: articles with adults with chronic respiratory disease and comparing inPR versus outPR in at least one PR outcome.

Results

Seven hundred thirty-six articles were retrieved from the databases. Six retrospective articles met the inclusion criteria. A best-evidence synthesis (BES) was carried out. Eight outcomes could be found in the included papers. For healthcare burden and refusals, no data could be extracted, and thus no BES was performed. For the eight remaining outcomes, two results were in favor of inPR with moderate evidence (HRQoL and psychological status), three were in favor of no difference between inPR and outPR with moderate or limited evidence (muscle strength, dropouts/adherence, and survival status), and three led to conflicting results (exercise tolerance, dyspnea, and economic costs).

Conclusion

With the current state of knowledge, the majority of the studies converge towards an absence of differences between inPR and outPR or in favor of inPR for seven out of eight outcomes, albeit with moderate, limited, or conflicting evidence. The greater effectiveness of inPR for some outcomes will have to be confirmed in a well-designed RCT in order to orient public health policies in terms of the development of PR with the best evidence-based medicine approach.

Trial registration

PROSPERO: CRD42020166546.
Effects of behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value, and context stability on the formation of a higher-order nutrition habit: an intensive longitudinal diary study
Authors: Kilb Michael , Labudek Sarah
Published: August 2022

Background

Habits drive many of our health behaviors in our daily lives. However, little is known about the relative contribution of different key factors for habit formation in real-world contexts. We examined the effects of behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value (operationalized as tastiness), and context stability on the formation of a higher-order nutrition habit.

Methods

Participants were recruited via mailing lists and posts on social media platforms. N = 199 participants (Mage = 37.10 years, SD = 13.00, 86.93% female) received an online intervention for building the higher-order habit of filling half of their plates with vegetables at dinner and completed one daily online survey for up to 56 days, including the assessment of habit strength, behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value, and context stability, providing a total of N = 6352 daily measurements. N = 189 participants (N = 4175 measurements) could be included in the primary analysis. Utilizing multilevel modeling, we analyzed the impact of behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value, and context stability, as well as their interaction effects, on habit strength on the next day.

Results

Habit strength significantly increased over time. This effect was strengthened in persons with high mean levels of behavioral performance. Furthermore, mean levels of behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value, and context stability were all positively related to mean levels of habit strength. There were no positive effects of daily intraindividual variations in the three examined factors on habit strength at the next day. There was an unexpected negative effect of daily behavioral performance on habit strength at the next day. We found little to no evidence for our expected and pre-registered interaction effects. In an additional exploratory analysis, there were positive effects of daily intraindividual variations in the three factors on habit strength at the same day.

Conclusions

We found that behavioral performance, intrinsic reward value, and context stability were all independent predictors of habit strength of a higher-order habit at the between-person level. However, we did not find the expected associations at the within-person level. Habit interventions should promote the consistent performance of the target behaviors in stable contexts.

Trial registration

https://aspredicted.org/blind.php?x=vu2cg4. Registered 28.04.2020.