bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online or In-Person Instruction? Factors Influencing COVID-19 Schooling Decisions Among Latinx Families in Houston, Texas
Authors: Szabo Julia
Published: October 2021

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, families have faced a difficult decision between online and in-person instruction. In many school districts, a higher proportion of non-White families selected online instruction for fall 2020, but the factors influencing these patterns are unclear. Using a case study approach, I focus on the experiences of 21 Latinx families whose children attend the same majority-Latinx charter school in Houston, Texas, and explore the factors families balanced when deciding between online and in-person instruction. Drawing on 37 in-depth interviews with mothers and their children, I find that Latinx families made schooling decisions informed by their shared school context, the needs of family networks, and community infection rates. Health and safety concerns drove most families to select online instruction while acknowledging it was an academic sacrifice, but maternal employment and access to child care shaped their ability to make this choice. This study highlights the influence of nonschool factors in pandemic schooling decisions.
Dental Visits for Autistic Children: A Qualitative Focus Group Study of Parental Perceptions
Authors: Parry J.A. , Newton T. , Linehan C. , Ryan C.
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Patient groups who pose behavioral challenges during dental attendance may be offered more restricted dental treatment options. Unsuccessful participation with dental visit tasks and demands has been commonly reported for autistic children.

Objectives:

This study aimed to examine parental perceptions of difficulties associated with dental attendance and oral care for autistic children and young adults, to highlight reported challenges and potential adaptations, and to identify interventions that will encourage positive experiences of dental attendance.

Methods:

Qualitative data were gathered through 2 focus groups with parents of primary school and secondary school pupils with autism, interviewed in separate groups. Questions about parents’ perceptions of dental attendance and oral care were asked. The groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were analyzed and initial codes generated. Development of subthemes and themes followed a process of thematic analysis.

Results:

Parental perceptions, which confirmed data from other studies, included the need for understanding and training, awareness of sensory issues, recognition of the individuality of autistic traits, time and clarity for communication, and factors affecting the confidence of parents to advocate in the clinical environment. Focus group participants identified the critical value of empathizing with an autistic perspective and highlighted the importance of positive oral health messages. They also noted the lack of understanding regarding the complexity of altering self-imposed, ritualistic dietary regimes and attempting to enact good dental preventive habits for their children.

Conclusions:

Analysis of data from parent focus groups provided a greater understanding of the needs and responsivity required for successful dental visits for autistic children and young adults. A range of potential interventions was identified and incorporated within a model of needs. Interventions based on Partnership Working, System Change, and Training of Dental Staff could be effective in reducing challenges posed by dental attendance for many children with autism.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, comorbid intellectual disability, and dental anxiety are barriers to successful participation during dental attendance for autistic children. This research proposes that interventions supporting Partnership Working, System Change, and Training of Dental Staff can reduce challenges posed by dental attendance. The model of interventions developed as part of this project can be used by oral care teams to help reduce barriers and improve the success of dental visits for autistic children.
Small-area moving ratios and the spatial connectivity of neighborhoods: Insights from consumer credit data
Authors: Daepp Madeleine I. G.
Published: October 2021

Communities share challenges with the neighborhoods to which former residents move and the neighborhoods from which new residents arrive. A lack of migration data for small geographic areas, however, makes it difficult to identify places that share populations over time. This article uses longitudinal consumer credit data to evaluate the spatial connectivity of neighborhoods. The paper develops a methodology for the construction of Small-Area Moving Ratios (SMvRs), motivating the approach with two applications: (1) the visualization of residential mobility ties across Massachusetts neighborhoods and (2) the application of a community detection algorithm to identify communities of strongly interconnected places. The research produces novel evidence showing that the connectivity between neighborhoods differs for socioeconomically advantaged versus for disadvantaged movers. This work shows how longitudinal, geolocated business administrative datasets can be repurposed to produce planning-relevant insights.
Compassionate community structure and function: a standardised micro-model for end-of-life doulas and community members supporting those who wish to die at home
Authors: Mallon Annetta
Published: October 2021

Background:

End-of-life doulas are an emerging, non-medical support and advocacy role for the dying and their caregivers. As more and more people are dying at home, research shows end-of-life doulas are increasingly in demand as non-medical advocates and companions for the dying, and their friends and families. Compassionate communities are essential to those who wish to die at home by helping to avoid carer stress and burnout associated with physical and emotional labour when a person is at end of life. However, compassionate community models are top-down in nature as they focus on public policy, missing a domestic-scale, standardised design applicable when someone wishes to die at home. This gap affects care networks and communications and arguably hinders the work of end-of-life doulas.

Aim:

Findings from original qualitative research with end-of-life doulas in four countries demonstrated the importance of compassionate communities for death literacy and support for a person at end of life and their networks and that all practitioners were using ad hoc, variable approaches to compassionate community formation and maintenance. A micro-level standardised and replicable model for organising and maintaining compassionate communities for end-of-life doulas which completes the established compassionate community model was developed to fill this gap and provide a vital tool for end-of-life doulas and training programmes internationally.

Methods:

Thematic analysis of research data from qualitative semi-structured interviews with end-of-life doulas in four countries was undertaken and considered as a cohort as well as by country.

Conclusions:

A model was developed that addresses a gap in international approaches to practice, offering a standardised way to discuss, teach, and implement compassionate communities for end-of-life doulas in a variety of countries and languages. This article discusses the research and model in detail.
Emergency department admissions to the intensive care unit – a national retrospective study
Authors: Wilhelms Susanne B. , Wilhelms Daniel B.
Published: October 2021

Background

Emergency departments (EDs) see a rising number of patients, but only a small fraction of ED patients need immediate intensive care. The characteristics of these patients are mostly unknown and there is reason to believe that there are large inter-hospital differences in thresholds for intensive care admissions from the ED. The purpose of this study was to give a nationwide overview of ED admissions directly to intensive care units.

Methods

We used the Swedish Intensive care Registry to identify all patients admitted to intensive care from the ED (January 1, 2013 until June 7, 2018). The primary outcome was discharge diagnosis after intensive care (primary ICU diagnosis code). ICU mortality and” ICU admission due to only observation” were analyzed as secondary outcomes.

Results

110,072 ICU admissions were included, representing 94,546 unique patients. Intoxication, trauma and neurological conditions were the most common causes for intensive care, but large variations according to age, sex and hospital type were seen. Intoxication was the most prevalent diagnosis in young adults (46.8% of admissions in 18–29 years old), whereas infectious diseases predominated in the elderly (17.0% in 65–79 years old). Overall, ICU mortality was 7.2%, but varied substantially with age, sex, type of hospital and medical condition. Cardiac conditions had the highest mortality rates, reaching 32.9%. The mortality was higher in academic centers compared to rural hospitals (9.3% vs 5.0%). It was more common to be admitted to ICU for only observation in rural hospitals than in academic centers (20.1% vs 7.8%). Being admitted to ICU only for observation was most common in patients with intoxication (30.6%).

Conclusions

Overall, intoxication was the most common cause for ICU admission from the ED. However, causes of ED ICU admissions differ substantially according to age, sex and hospital type. Being admitted to the ICU only for observation was most common in intoxicated patients.

Trial registration

Not applicable (no interventions).
Study protocol: a non-randomised community trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the communities that care prevention system in Germany
Authors: Röding Dominik , Soellner Renate , Reder Maren , Birgel Vera , Kleiner Constantin , Stolz Maike , Groeger-Roth Frederick , Krauth Christian , Walter Ulla
Published: October 2021

Background

The Communities That Care (CTC) prevention planning and implementation system trains communities throughout a five-phase cycle to (1) build capacity for prevention, (2) adopt science-based prevention, (3) assess the prevention needs of adolescents living in the community, (4) select, and (5) implement evidence-based programs according to their needs. After CTC proved to be effective and cost-effective in the U.S., it is being used by an increasing number of communities in Germany. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of CTC in Germany.

Methods

Communities in CTC-phases 1 to 3 (n = 21) and individually-matched comparison communities (n = 21) were recruited for a non-randomised trial. To assess long-term outcomes, (1) a cohort of 5th Grade students will be surveyed biennially concerning behaviours (antisocial behaviour and substance use) and well-being as well as risk and protective factors. Additionally, (2) biennial cross-sectional surveys will be conducted in 6th, 8th, 10th, and 11th Grade in each community. To assess short-term outcomes, a cohort of ten key informants per community will be surveyed biennially concerning adoption of science-based prevention, collaboration, community support and community norms. (4) In a cross-sectional design, all ongoing prevention programs and activities in the communities will be assessed biennially and data will be collected about costs, implementation and other characteristics of the programs and activities. (5) To monitor the CTC implementation, the members of the local CTC-boards will be surveyed annually (cross-sectional design) about team functioning and coalition capacity. Data analysis will include general and generalised mixed models to assess the average treatment effect of CTC. Mediation analyses will be performed to test the logical model, e.g., adoption of science-based prevention as a mediator for the effectiveness of the CTC approach.

Discussion

This is the first controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive community prevention approach in Germany. Evaluating the effectiveness of CTC in Germany is an important prerequisite for further diffusion of the CTC approach.

Trial registration

This study was registered with German Clinical Trial Register:DRKS00022819on Aug 18, 2021.
Economic evaluation of patient costs associated with tuberculosis diagnosis and care in Solomon Islands
Authors: Viney Kerri , Itogo Noel , Yamanaka Takuya , Jebeniani Ridha , Hazarika Anupama , Morishita Fukushi , Nishikiori Nobuyuki , Nery Susana Vaz
Published: October 2021

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) care can be costly for patients and their families. The End TB Strategy includes a target that zero TB affected households should experience catastrophic costs associated with TB care. Costs are catastrophic when a patient spends 20% or more of their annual household income on their TB diagnosis and care. In Solomon Islands the costs of TB care are unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the costs of TB diagnosis and care, the types of costs and the proportion of patients with catastrophic costs.

Methods

This was a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of TB patients carried out between 2017 and 2019. Patients were recruited from health care facilities, from all ten provinces in Solomon Islands. During an interview they were asked about the costs of TB diagnosis and care. These data were analysed using descriptive statistics to describe the costs overall and the proportions of different types of costs. The proportion of patients with catastrophic costs was calculated and a multivariate logistic regression was undertaken to determine factors associated with catastrophic costs.

Results

One hundred and eighty-three TB patients participated in the survey. They spent a mean of 716 USD (inter quartile range: 348–1217 USD) on their TB diagnosis and care. Overall, 62.1% of costs were attributable to non-medical costs, while income loss and medical costs comprised 28.5 and 9.4%, respectively. Overall, 19.7% (n = 36) of patients used savings, borrowed money, or sold assets as a financial coping mechanism. Three patients (1.6%) had health insurance. A total of 92.3% (95% CI: 88.5–96.2) experienced catastrophic costs, using the output approach. Being in the first, second or third poorest wealth quintile was significantly associated with catastrophic costs (adjusted odds ratio: 67.3, 95% CI: 15.86–489.74%, p <  0.001).

Conclusion

The costs of TB care are catastrophic for almost all patients in Solomon Islands. The provision of TB specific social and financial protection measures from the National TB and Leprosy Programme may be needed in the short term to ameliorate these costs. In the longer term, advancement of universal health coverage and other social and financial protection measures should be pursued.
Comprehensive characterization of internal and cuticle surface microbiota of laboratory-reared F1 Anopheles albimanus originating from different sites
Authors: Dada Nsa , Benedict Ana Cristina , López Francisco , Lol Juan C. , Sheth Mili , Dzuris Nicole , Padilla Norma , Lenhart Audrey
Published: October 2021

Background

Research on mosquito-microbe interactions may lead to new tools for mosquito and mosquito-borne disease control. To date, such research has largely utilized laboratory-reared mosquitoes that typically lack the microbial diversity of wild populations. A logical progression in this area involves working under controlled settings using field-collected mosquitoes or, in most cases, their progeny. Thus, an understanding of how laboratory colonization affects the assemblage of mosquito microbiota would aid in advancing mosquito microbiome studies and their applications beyond laboratory settings.

Methods

Using high throughput 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, the internal and cuticle surface microbiota of F1 progeny of wild-caught adult Anopheles albimanus from four locations in Guatemala were characterized. A total of 132 late instar larvae and 135 2–5 day-old, non-blood-fed virgin adult females that were reared under identical laboratory conditions, were pooled (3 individuals/pool) and analysed.

Results

Results showed location-associated heterogeneity in both F1 larval internal (p = 0.001; pseudo-F = 9.53) and cuticle surface (p = 0.001; pseudo-F = 8.51) microbiota, and only F1 adult cuticle surface (p = 0.001; pseudo-F = 4.5) microbiota, with a more homogenous adult internal microbiota (p = 0.12; pseudo-F = 1.6) across collection sites. Overall, ASVs assigned to Leucobacter, Thorsellia, Chryseobacterium and uncharacterized Enterobacteriaceae, dominated F1 larval internal microbiota, while Acidovorax, Paucibacter, and uncharacterized Comamonadaceae, dominated the larval cuticle surface. F1 adults comprised a less diverse microbiota compared to larvae, with ASVs assigned to the genus Asaia dominating both internal and cuticle surface microbiota, and constituting at least 70% of taxa in each microbial niche.

Conclusions

These results suggest that location-specific heterogeneity in filed mosquito microbiota can be transferred to F1 progeny under normal laboratory conditions, but this may not last beyond the F1 larval stage without adjustments to maintain field-derived microbiota. These findings provide the first comprehensive characterization of laboratory-colonized F1An. albimanus progeny from field-derived mothers. This provides a background for studying how parentage and environmental conditions differentially or concomitantly affect mosquito microbiome composition, and how this can be exploited in advancing mosquito microbiome studies and their applications beyond laboratory settings.
A citizen science-based survey of avian mortality focusing on haemosporidian infections in wild passerine birds
Authors: Himmel Tanja , Harl Josef , Matt Julia , Weissenböck Herbert
Published: October 2021

Background

Haemosporidioses are common in birds and their manifestations range from subclinical infections to severe disease, depending on the involved parasite and bird species. Clinical haemosporidioses are often observed in non-adapted zoo or aviary birds, whereas in wild birds, particularly passerines, haemosporidian infections frequently seem to be asymptomatic. However, a recent study from Austria showed pathogenic haemosporidian infections in common blackbirds due to high parasite burdens ofPlasmodium matutinumLINN1, a common parasite in this bird species, suggesting that virulent infections also occur in natural hosts. Based on these findings, the present study aimed to explore whether and to what extent other native bird species are possibly affected by pathogenic haemosporidian lineages, contributing to avian morbidity.

Methods

Carcasses of passerine birds and woodpeckers were collected during a citizen science-based survey for avian mortality in Austria, from June to October 2020. Tissue samples were taken and examined for haemosporidian parasites of the generaPlasmodium,HaemoproteusandLeucocytozoonby nested PCR and sequencing the mitochondrialcytbbarcode region, histology, and chromogenic in situ hybridization applying genus-specific probes.

Results

From over 160 dead bird reportings, 83 carcasses of 25 avian species were submitted for investigation. Overall haemosporidian infection rate was 31%, with finches and tits prevailing species counts and infections. Sequence analyses revealed 17 different haplotypes (4Plasmodium, 4Haemoproteus, 9Leucocytozoon), including 4 novelLeucocytozoonlineages. Most infected birds presented low parasite burdens in the peripheral blood and tissues, ruling out a significant contribution of haemosporidian infections to morbidity or death of the examined birds. However, two great tits showed signs of avian malaria, suggesting pathogenic effects of the detected speciesPlasmodium relictumSGS1 andPlasmodium elongatumGRW06. Further, exo-erythrocytic tissue stages of several haemosporidian lineages are reported.

Conclusions

While suggesting generally little contribution of haemosporidian infections to mortality of the investigated bird species, the findings indicate a possible role of certain haemosporidian lineages in overall clinical manifestation, either as main causes or as concurrent disease agents. Further, the study presents new data on exo-erythrocytic stages of previously reported lineages and shows how citizen science can be used in the field of haemosporidian research.

Graphic abstract
Metoclopramide-induced acute dystonic reactions: a case report
Authors: Chaudhary Ritesh , Malla Gyanendra , Kadayat Monika
Published: October 2021

Background

Acute dystonic reactions caused by drugs are uncommon in daily practice, whether in outpatient or in emergency settings. Such types of unfavorable reaction may cause the treating physician’s working diagnosis to be misled at a certain point.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old Hindu female from Dharan with no previous medical history was being treated for acid peptic disease. Her local physician prescribed oral tablet metoclopramide 10 mg three times a day for 7 days and tablet pantoprazole 40 mg once daily for 7 days. After 24 hours of ingestion of 10 mg of tablet metoclopramide, she was admitted to our Koirala Institute of Health Sciences emergency department with sudden history of facial twitching, slurred speech, and abnormal tongue protrusion. Metoclopramide-induced acute dystonic reaction was diagnosed. After resuscitation, her symptoms reduced quickly, and she was successfully discharged home the same day.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis would be aided by the use of clinical background along with focus on drug history usage, preventing life-threatening pitfalls. To decrease the acute dystonic reaction associated with metoclopramide use, higher frequency of prescription patterns should be taken into account.
Evaluation of the content validity of patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments developed for use with individuals with phakic presbyopia, including the Near Activity Visual Questionnaire-presbyopia (NAVQ-P) and the near vision correction independence (NVCI) instrument
Authors: Bentley Sarah , Findley Amy , Chiva-Razavi Sima , Naujoks Christel , Patalano Francesco , Johnson Chloe , Arbuckle Rob , Wolffsohn James S.
Published: October 2021

Background

Presbyopia is the age-related deterioration in the ability to focus on close objects. In order to develop a patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument to assess near vision functioning, the Near Activity Visual Questionnaire (NAVQ) was adapted to incorporate modern technology (e.g. smartphones) and to be appropriate for use in phakic presbyopia, leading to the development of the NAVQ-Presbyopia (NAVQ-P). Additional single-item instruments of near vision correction independence (NVCI), correction preference (NVCP), and vision satisfaction (NVS) were also developed. The study aimed to evaluate the content validity of the NAVQ-P and additional instruments in individuals with phakic presbyopia.

Methods

Participants in the US (n = 15), Germany (n = 10) and France (n = 10) took part in face-to-face, qualitative, cognitive debriefing interviews. Seven healthcare professionals (HCPs) were also interviewed to assess the clinical relevance of the PRO instruments. Interviews started with open-ended qualitative concept elicitation questioning; participants then completed the PRO instruments on an electronic tablet using a “think-aloud” process and were asked about their understanding and relevance of each item, instruction, response scale and recall period. Interviews were conducted in two rounds allowing for modifications between rounds.

Results

The participants interpreted the majority of the PRO instruments and recall period correctly and consistently. They were able to select an appropriate response option without difficulty. Minor modifications were made to the PRO instruments based on interview findings. Instruction/item wording was modified to include reference to use of a magnifying glass, in addition to glasses and contact lenses. Two items were added to assess difficulty with precision tasks (e.g. sewing) and taking longer to adjust from distance to near vision. HCPs confirmed the relevance of the concepts being measured for presbyopia and recommended the addition of an item assessing contrast sensitivity.

Conclusions

Developed in accordance with the FDA PRO Guidance, the findings support content validity of the NAVQ-P as a suitable, well-understood instrument of relevant near vision functioning concepts in individuals with phakic presbyopia. The NVCI and additional PRO instruments are appropriate to assess near vision correction independence, correction preference, and vision satisfaction. Future work will assess the psychometric properties of the NAVQ-P and additional PRO instruments.
Vitamin D Supplementation and Fractures in Adults: A Systematic Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses of Controlled Trials
Authors: Chakhtoura Marlene , Bacha Dania S , Gharios Charbel , Ajjour Sara , Assaad Mariam , Jabbour Yara , Kahale Francesca , Bassatne Aya , Antoun Stephanie , Akl Elie A , Bouillon Roger , Lips Paul , Ebeling Peter R , El-Hajj Fuleihan Ghada
Published: October 2021

Context

The growing number of systematic reviews/meta-analyses (SR/MAs) on vitamin D (± calcium) for fracture prevention has led to contradictory guidelines.

Objective

This umbrella review aims to assess the quality and explore the reasons for the discrepancy of SR/MAs of trials on vitamin D supplementation for fracture risk reduction in adults.

Methods

We searched 4 databases (2010-2020), Epistemonikos, and references of included SRs/MAs, and we contacted experts in the field. We used A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2) for quality assessment. We compared results and investigated reasons for discordance using matrices and subgroup analyses (PROSPERO registration: CRD42019129540). We included 13 SR/MAs on vitamin D and calcium (Ca/D) and 19 SR/MAs on vitamin D alone, compared to placebo/control.

Results

Only 2 from 10 SRs/MAs on Ca/D were of moderate quality. Ca/D reduced the risk of hip fractures in 8 of 12 SRs/MAs (relative risk [RR] 0.61-0.84), and any fractures in 7 of 11 SR/MAs (RR 0.74-0.95). No fracture risk reduction was noted in SRs/MAs exclusively evaluating community-dwelling individuals or in those on vitamin D alone compared to placebo/control. Discordance in results between SRs/MAs stems from inclusion of different trials, related to search periods and eligibility criteria, and varying methodology (using intention to treat, per-protocol, or complete case analysis from individual trials).

Conclusion

Ca/D reduces the risk of hip and any fractures, possibly driven by findings from institutionalized individuals. Individual participant data meta-analyses of patients on Ca/D with sufficient follow-up periods, and subgroup analyses, would unravel determinants for a beneficial response to supplementation.
Trade relations between CARICOM and China: a recap and outlook
Authors: Zhu Huan
Published: October 2021

This article reviews trade relations between CARICOM countries and China, and explores the future opportunities and challenges to expanding trade. It first describes the trend of bilateral trade between CARICOM countries and China over the past two decades. It then focuses on future opportunities and identifies potential challenges for bilateral trade to expand through the development of the Belt and Road Initiative, the impact of the trade war between the US and China, and possible free trade agreements between CARICOM countries and China. CARICOM countries will need to navigate the issues carefully to ensure success.
A numerical evaluation on nonlinear dynamic response of sandwich plates with partially rectangular skin/core debonding
Authors: Tuswan Tuswan , Zubaydi Achmad , Piscesa Bambang , Ismail Abdi , Ariesta Rizky Chandra , Prabowo Aditya Rio
Published: October 2021

As one of the most dangerous defects in the sandwich panel, debonding could significantly degrade load carrying capacity and affect dynamic behaviour. The present work dealt with debonding detection of the rectangular clamped hybrid sandwich plate by using ABAQUS software. The influence of various damage ratios on the linear and nonlinear dynamic responses has been studied. The finite element model was initially validated by comparing the modal response with the experimental test. Rectangular debonding was detected by comparing dynamic responses of free and forced vibrations between intact and debonded models. A wide range of driving frequency excitation corresponding to transient and harmonic concentrated loads was implemented to highlight nonlinear behaviour in the intermittent contact in the debonded models. The results showed that debonding existence contributed to the natural frequency reduction and modes shape change. The numerical results revealed that debonding affected both the steady-state and impulse responses of the debonded models. Using the obtained responses, it was detected that the contact in the debonded region altered the dynamic global response of the debonded models. The finding provided the potential debonding diagnostic in ship structure using vibration-based structural health monitoring.
RWWO: an effective strategy for workflow scheduling in cloud computing with predicted energy using Deep Maxout Network
Authors: Gogireddy Narendrababu Reddy , Singamsetty Phani Kumar
Published: October 2021

Workflow scheduling is the recent researching area in the cloud environment, in which user satisfaction based on the cost and bandwidth is the most challenging task. Several research methods are devised to minimize the execution time and cost, which compromises the attributes. Hence, this research introduces an effective task scheduling mechanism in a cloud environment utilizing the Regressive Whale Water Optimization (RWWO) algorithm, which is derived by the integration of Regressive Whale Optimization (RWO) and Water Cycle Algorithm (WCA). The fitness parameters utilized are Quality of Service (QoS), resource utilization, and predicted energy. However, predicted energy is determined using Deep Maxout Network. Moreover, the proposed RWWO + Deep Maxout Network achieved a minimum task scheduling time of 0.0208, minimum task scheduling cost of 0.0017, minimum predicted energy of 0.1971, and maximum resource utilization of 0.9999.
The effect of endurance, resistance training, and supplements on mitochondria and bioenergetics of muscle cells
Authors: Bajes Hana R. , Hakooz Nancy M. , Dardeer Khaled T. , Al-Dujaili Emad A. S.
Published: October 2021

Bioenergetics is the study of energy flow between biological systems and the surroundings and is measured quantitatively. Energy flow can be affected by many variables, including lifestyle and exercise, where exercise comes in different types; endurance and resistance training play significant roles in enhancing bioenergetics and promoting health. In addition, a supplementary diet supports recovery and energy production. This review aims to study the effect of endurance training, resistance training, and supplement intake on the muscle cell’s bioenergetics. As a conclusion of the information presented in this mini-review, it was found that resistance, endurance training, and supplements can increase mitochondrial biogenesis, fat oxidation, myofibril synthesis, and increase VO2 max.
An Inquiry-Based Lab Activity to Investigate Potential Effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Seed Germination
Authors: Nelson Lori Wollerman , Cheeke Tanya E. , Cifizzari KC
Published: October 2021

Incorporating research experiences into undergraduate education is an effective way to foster interest in science and introduce students to the scientific process. We describe an original research investigation into the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on seed germination. Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants roots, and although they have been shown to benefit plant growth, their effect on seed germination is less well understood. In this lab activity, students incubate seeds in the presence and absence of AM fungal inocula and compare the germination rates (% seeds germinated) and germination times (days to germination) between experimental (+AM fungi) and control (−AM fungi) groups. Students present their results through a group-written report, in addition to individually submitted assignments. This lab activity provides students the opportunity to learn about species interactions, sterile technique, plant development, data presentation and interpretation, and scientific communication.
Cats Teach Stats
Authors: Yang Suann , Hazlehurst Jenny , Taniguchi Darcy A. A.
Published: October 2021

Tools that teach quantitative skills and foster positive student attitudes toward these skills are important in biology curricula. Math and statistics anxiety is common and can interfere with student learning in biology courses. We describe a new framework for alleviating this anxiety. In our module, students watch a cute internet cat video, which inspires them to ask scientific questions about animal behavior and collect, analyze, and interpret data. We developed two freely available interactive tools to implement our module. We successfully implemented these tools with undergraduate students at two institutions. Based on this experience, we provide ideas for extension along with assessment.
PERSPECTIVA AFROGÊNICA DECOLONIAL NOS ITENS DE LÍNGUA ESPANHOLA DO ENEM PARA JOVENS E ADULTOS PRIVADOS DE LIBERDADE
Authors: Botelho Gabriela Rodrigues , Matos Doris Cristina Vicente da Silva
Published: October 2021

RESUMO O objetivo desse trabalho é analisar como a Educação para as Relações Étnico-Raciais (ERER) é abordada nos itens de língua espanhola do Exame Nacional do Ensino Médio (ENEM) das provas aplicadas para Pessoas Privadas de Liberdade (PPL). A análise se centra em cinco itens, referentes às aplicações feitas entre 2010 e 2019, que abordam as relações étnico-raciais no mundo hispânico, através do texto, do enunciado e das alternativas das questões. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritivointerpretativista e de técnica documental (MOITA LOPES, 1994). Essa discussão se insere no campo teórico da Linguística Aplicada (LA) voltada para pesquisas responsivas, que atendam às demandas sociais e pensem os sujeitos e a linguagem como heterogêneos e racializados, a partir de uma visão suleada (SILVA JÚNIOR; MATOS, 2019). Como fundamentação teórica, além dos pressupostos da LA, tomamos como base os estudos decoloniais que problematizam a colonialidade do poder, fundamentada principalmente na ideia de raça a partir da colonização das Américas (LANDER, 2005; QUIJANO, 2005; CASTRO-GÓMEZ; GROSFOGUEL, 2007; MIGNOLO, 2007; WALSH, 2008; VERONELLI, 2015). Os estudos étnicoraciais também fundamentam esta investigação, pois buscamos promover uma educação igualitária e livre de preconceitos, com vistas a refletir essa concepção na sociedade. Os resultados apontam que a ERER é contemplada parcialmente nos itens de língua espanhola aplicados para PPL, demonstrando que é um tema ainda urgente de ser debatido no meio educacional.
Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs and cats domiciliated in Santos, SP, Brazil
Authors: Lima Nathalia Delucinhore , Raimundo Daniele Cristine , de Souza Vanessa Aparecida Feijó , Aguiar Juliana Martins
Published: October 2021

Abstract Helminths and protozoa are major causes of diseases in domestic animals, and many can also cause infections in humans. Knowledge of intestinal parasitoses affecting domestic animals is important for the implementation of appropriate preventive measures. The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples of dogs and cats attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Metropolitan University of Santos, SP, Brazil. We also attempted to determine whether such infection was associated with sex, age, or the presence of diarrhea. We analyzed 100 fecal samples: 85 from dogs and 15 from cats. Among the dogs, 31.8% of the samples were positive, and to 40.0% among the cats. Infection was not associated with sex or age. However, among the dogs, parasitism showed a significant association with the presence of diarrhea (P = 0.013). The helminths Ancylostoma spp. and the protozoa Giardia duodenalis were the most frequent parasites in this research. Although they present unknown species and assemblages, they are parasites with a zoonotic potential of great importance in public health. Therefore, it is essential that pets are properly diagnosed and treated against gastrointestinal parasitic infection to prevent the spread of diseases.
SYSTEM OF REGULATION OF SOUTH AFRICAN INSOLVENCY LAW: LESSONS FROM THE UNITED KINGDOM
Authors: Juanitta Calitz
Published: October 2021

In order to assess the regulatory aspects of South African insolvency law it is necessary to examine the regulatory methodology of certain international jurisdictions in order to determine whether it is attainable, or even desirable, to bring about law reform in regard to the regulatory framework within South African insolvency law. South African insolvency legislation is deeply rooted in English law resulting in South African and English laws reflecting to a great extent similar legal philosophies and principles. Although the English regulatory framework may not suit the South African economic conditions in a strict sense, there are adequate similarities between thejurisdictions’ historical, legal and cultural elements to constitute a distinct and identifiable process. The article commences with an overview of the historical development of State regulation in the United Kingdom (UK) and includes a discussion of the UK’s present regulatory system. It then proceeds to discuss briefly the South African regulatory framework and concludes by providing some propositions for law reform.
DADDY’S HOME: THE PROMOTION OF PATERNITY LEAVE AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN WORKPLACE
Authors: Asheelia Behari
Published: October 2021

Current labour legislation provides employees with three days’ family-responsibility leave for the care of their family. This means that fathers of new-born babies must rely on the provision of three days of family-responsibility leave, if they wish to take time off from work after the birth of a new baby. Alternatively, fathers will have to use annual leave on the birth of a baby. Paternity leave is exclusively offered to the working father as time off work immediately after the birth of his child, not only to care and bond with the new-born baby, but also to care for the mother during the post-natal stage. Most countries do not provide a separate legislative right to paternity leave. The right is generally included in parental-leave provisions, which provide fathers an exclusive period of leave. Providing maternity leave without a corresponding period of paternity leave creates an imbalance in family dynamics. The exclusion of paternity leave fuels the stigmatised notion of women as homemakers and caregivers. It leads to the perception that women are provided with maternity leave because the primary responsibility of women is to care for children, whereas men need not be afforded paternity leave because their primary responsibility is to be a “bread-winner”. Therefore, providing the right to paternity or parental leave would promote the equal treatment and opportunities between men and women in the workplace. The Constitution guarantees gender equality and fair labour practice. South Africa has made legislative efforts to provide these rights through labour law and decisions of the Labour Court. While certain aspects of these efforts have proved effective, the labour laws of South Africa fail to provide paternity leave for fathers.
AN INTRAOPERATIVE SCORING SYSTEM DURING LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY IS A VALUABLE TOOL TO ASSESS CONVERSION RATES AND PERIOPERATIVE COMPLICATIONS
Authors: Rashaan Mezjda
Published: October 2021

Background 

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is currently the gold standard procedure for management of gall bladder diseases (GBD). Bile duct injuries are the most disaster complication during this procedure, especially in patients with acute cholecystitis. To decrease such biliary injuries intraoperatively and conversion rates, it is necessary to have preoperative and intraoperative assessment of gall bladder according to special grading scale. In this study for such evaluation and assessment in patients with acute cholecystitis we are using Parkland Grading Scale (PGS).

Objectives 

To evaluate pre-operative findings, conversion rates, and perioperative complications of laparoscopic cholecystectomy through intra-operative assessment of the gallbladder during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Materials and Methods

A cohort of patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy were retrospectively studied. The Parkland Grading Scale for Cholecystitis (PGS), which consists of a five-tier grading system, was used for the intra-operative assessment of the gallbladder

Results

710 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included in this study. High pre-operative white blood cell counts, as well as bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels and ultrasonography features such as gallbladder thickness, bile duct dilatation, and stones in the common bile duct, were significantly more often present in patients with grades 3, 4, and 5 than in patients with grades 1 and 2 (p<0.0001). Patients with grades 4 and 5 had the highest conversion rate compared with patients with other grades (50.0% and 66.7%, respectively, p<0.0001). Furthermore, the number of perioperative complications was highest with grades 4 and 5 compared with other grades (40.0% and 33.3%, respectively, p<0.0001). The incidence of bile duct injuries, seroma, and wound infections were highest with grade 4 compared with other grades (5%, 10%, and 20%, respectively, p<0.0001) 

Conclusion

Intra-operative assessment of the severity of gallbladder disease using the Parkland Grading Scale for Cholecystitis (PGS) during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a valuable tool to assess the difficultly of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the conversion rates, and perioperative complications.
CLINICAL PHARMACIST INTERVENTION IN MANAGING PAIN AMONG PATIENTS WITH CANCER IN HIWA ONCOLOGY HOSPITAL
Authors: Marf Tavan , Mohammed Mohammed
Published: October 2021

Background 

Cancer patients are mostly suffering from pain during cancer treatments or after chemotherapy because pain management in cancer patients is not standardized, the clinical pharmacist takes a more effective role in the improvement of the drug treatment.

Objectives 

To study the role of clinical pharmacist intervention in pain management in cancer patients and compare them to the non-intervention group.

Patients and Methods

This is a cross-sectional study, conducted in Hiwa teaching hospital in Sulaimani from July 2019- January 2020, 200 patients participated in this study, they were divided into two groups randomly, the first group which includes (100 patients) with intervention by a clinical pharmacist and the second group (100 patients) was the control group with no intervention by a clinical pharmacist. All patients have malignancy and were suffering from cancer pain. They were assessed initially for their pain and followed-up for 4 weeks by direct interview or by telephone contact, the intervention group was further advised to manage any drug-related problems including (adverse effects of the drugs, dose modification, and changing drug in cooperation with the oncologist, also the patients were advised to have further adherence to the analgesic drugs. The process and outcome parameters of therapy were collected and analyzed, using SPSS-version 23.

Results

The pain scores in the intervention group were significantly improved compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The incidence of opioid and nonopioid adverse effects was significantly lower in the intervention group and they showed higher adherence to the analgesic drugs (P< 0.05) 

Conclusion

Clinical pharmacist has a positive role in managing the pain of patients suffering from cancer pain, also achieving better control of the pain and by minimizing adverse effects of the analgesics and increasing adherence to their medication.
ASSESSMENT OF THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL FIRST AID KNOWLEDGE AMONG SENIOR STUDENTS IN MEDICAL COLLEGES IN THE GOVERNMENTAL UNIVERSITIES IN SULAIMANI CITY
Authors: Mustafa Sarbaz , Ibrahim Hadeel , Mohammad Mohammad , Othman Shniar , Salih Hawzhin , Mohammed Saeeda , Muhamad Tara , Abdulmuhsen Raghda
Published: October 2021

Background 

Life is characterized by uncertain twists and turns and risky conditions that come out all the time. First aid is the instantaneous action taken to save a life and lessen the effects of injury and illness until medical help is procured. This study aims to assess the knowledge regarding first aid among undergraduate senior students in the Governmental medical colleges in Sulaimani City. The study population consisted of students from 4 medical colleges at the University of Sulaimani and from 2 medical colleges atSulaimani Polytechnic University.

Materials and Methods

Data were obtained via a questionnaire from 157 students. Collected data were tabulated using Microsoft Excel 2013, and all data analyses were done using SPSS version 16.0.

Results

The overall percentage of correct answers was 71.5%, and 28.5% with insufficient knowledge. The highest percentage of correct answers belonged to students from the College of Nursing 38.5%. A significant difference was found among students who had taken first aid courses and/or lectures previously when compared to those who had not, but there was no significant difference between those who work as a health professionals and those who do not. 

Conclusion

The level of knowledge and awareness of first aid is satisfactory among the senior students, yet further compulsory first aid training programs with practical activities are needed, with more significant and less limited research studies.
Comparing skill enhanced and standard cognitive behavioral therapy for depression: a protocol for a randomized trial
Authors: Murphy Samuel T. , Strunk Daniel R. , Bailey Brooklynn , Bartels Graham C. , Vittorio Lisa N. , Whelen Megan L. , Zhou Robert J.
Published: October 2021

Background: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) features prominently among the first-line treatments for depression. The development of CBT skills is associated with both symptom reductions and reduced risk for relapse, suggesting that improvements in CBT skills might be important to the benefits of CBT. Nonetheless, standard CBT places modest emphasis on the development of these skills.

Methods: In this paper, we describe a randomized clinical trial testing the benefits of a variation of CBT that places greater emphasis on teaching patients CBT skills and makes patients' independent use of these skills a central therapeutic goal. Patients in this study (75 per condition) are being randomized to 12 weeks of standard or skill enhanced CBT for depression. The primary outcomes are change in symptoms and change in CBT skills. We will also evaluate the process of change in the treatments.

Conclusions: This study has the potential to suggest an approach to enhancing CBT outcomes through greater focus on patients developing and independently using CBT skills. It will also provide an important context for understanding the role that CBT skills play in the therapeutic outcomes of CBT.

Trial registration: The trial has been registered in ClinicalTrials.gov. Registration number: NCT04673513; registered on 17 December 2020.