bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Living like an empty gas tank with a leak”: Mixed methods study on post-acute sequelae of COVID-19
Authors: Ogungbe Oluwabunmi , Slone Sarah , Alharthi Abeer , Tomiwa Tosin , Kumbe Baridosia , Bergman Alanna , McNabb Katherine , Smith Wright Rhonda , Farley Jason E. , Dennison Himmelfarb Cheryl R. , Cooper Lisa A. , Post Wendy S. , Davidson Patricia M. , Commodore-Mensah Yvonne
Published: December 2022

Background

The burden and presentation of post-acute sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) are a developing major public health concern.

Objectives

To characterize the burden of PASC in community-dwelling individuals and understand the experiences of people living with PASC.

Methods

This mixed-methods study of COVID-19 positive community-dwelling persons involved surveys and in-depth interviews. Main outcome was self-report of possible PASC symptoms 3 weeks or longer after positive COVID-19 test. In-depth interviews were guided by a semi-structured interview guide with open-ended questions and probes based on emerging literature on PASC and the impact of COVID-19.

Results

With a survey response rate of 70%, 442 participants were included in this analysis, mean (SD) age 45.4 (16.2) years, 71% female, 12% Black/African American. Compared to those with no PASC symptoms, persons who reported PASC symptoms were more likely to be older (mean age: 46.5 vs. 42; p = 0.013), female (74.3% vs. 61.2%; p = 0.010), to have pre-existing conditions (49.6% vs. 34%; p = 0.005), and to have been hospitalized for COVID-19 (14.2% vs. 2.9%; p = 0.002). About 30% of the participants experienced severe fatigue; the proportion of persons reporting severe fatigue was 7-fold greater in those with PASC symptoms (Adjusted Prevalence Ratio [aPR] 6.73, 95%CI: 2.80–16.18). Persons with PASC symptoms were more likely to report poor quality of life (16% vs. 5%, p<0.001) and worse mental health functioning (Mean difference: -1.87 95%CI: -2.38, -1.37, p<0.001). Themes from in-depth interviews revealed PASC was experienced as debilitating.

Conclusions

In this study, the prevalence of PASC among community-dwelling adults was substantial. Participants reported considerable coping difficulties, restrictions in everyday activities, invisibility of symptoms and experiences, and impediments to getting and receiving PASC care.
Phenotypic and genotypic detection of carbapenemase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Dwomoh Felicia P. , Kotey Fleischer C. N. , Dayie Nicholas T. K. D. , Osei Mary-Magdalene , Amoa-Owusu Felicia , Bannah Vida , Alzahrani Fuad M. , Halawani Ibrahim F. , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Egyir Beverly , Donkor Eric S.
Published: December 2022

Aim

To describe the occurrence of carbapenem resistance among multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from clinical specimens in Accra using phenotypic and genotypic methods.

Methodology

The study was cross-sectional, involving 144 clinical MDR E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates recovered from the Central Laboratory of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). The isolates were re-cultured bacteriologically, identified using standard biochemical tests, and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer method. Carbapenem resistance was determined based on imipenem, meropenem, and ertapenem zones of inhibition, as well as minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Carbapenemase production was determined phenotypically by modified Hodge test (MHT) and modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM), and genotypically with multiplex PCR targeting the blaKPC, blaIMP, blaNDM, blaVIM, and blaOXA-48 genes.

Results

Of the 144 MDR isolates, 69.4% were E. coli, and 30.6% were K. pneumoniae. The distribution of antimicrobial resistance rates among them was ampicillin (97.2%), cefuroxime (93.1%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (86.8%), tetracycline (85.4%), cefotaxime and cefpodoxime (77.1% each), amoxicillin-clavulanate (75%), ceftriaxone (73.6%), ciprofloxacin (70.8%), levofloxacin (66.0%), cefepime (65.3%), ceftazidime (64.6%), gentamicin (48.6), piperacillin-tazobactam (40.3%), cefoxitin (14.6%), amikacin (13.9%), ertapenem and meropenem (5.6% each), and imipenem (2.8%). In total, 5.6% (8/144) of them were carbapenem-resistant (carbapenem MIC range = 0.094–32.0 μg/ml), with 75% (6/8) of these testing positive by the phenotypic tests and 62.5% (5/8) by the genotypic test (of which 80% [4/5] carried blaOXA-48 and 20% (1/5) blaNDM). The blaVIM, blaIMP, and blaKPC genes were not detected.

Conclusion

Although the rates of antibiotic resistance among the isolates were high, the prevalence of carbapenemase producers was low. The finding of blaOXA-48 and blaNDM warrants upscaling of antimicrobial resistance surveillance programmes and fortification of infection prevention and control programmes in the country.
A flashing light may not be that flashy: A systematic review on critical fusion frequencies
Authors: Lafitte Alix , Sordello Romain , Legrand Marc , Nicolas Virginie , Obein Gaël , Reyjol Yorick
Published: December 2022

Background

Light pollution could represent one of the main drivers behind the current biodiversity erosion. While the effects of many light components on biodiversity have already been studied, the influence of flicker remains poorly understood. The determination of the threshold frequency at which a flickering light is perceived as continuous by a species, usually called the Critical Fusion Frequency (CFF), could thus help further identify the impacts of artificial lighting on animals.

Objective

This review aimed at answering the following questions: what is the distribution of CFF between species? Are there differences in how flicker is perceived between taxonomic classes? Which species are more at risk of being impacted by artificial lighting flicker?

Methods

Citations were extracted from three literature databases and were then screened successively on their titles, abstracts and full-texts. Included studies were critically appraised to assess their validity. All relevant data were extracted and analysed to determine the distribution of CFF in the animal kingdom and the influence of experimental designs and species traits on CFF.

Results

At first, 4881 citations were found. Screening and critical appraisal provided 200 CFF values for 156 species. Reported values of CFF varied from a maximum of between 300 Hz and 500 Hz for the beetle Melanophila acuminata D. to a mean of 0.57 (± 0.08) Hz for the snail Lissachatina fulica B. Insects and birds had higher CFF than all other studied taxa. Irrespective of taxon, nocturnal species had lower CFF than diurnal and crepuscular ones.

Conclusions

We identified nine crepuscular and nocturnal species that could be impacted by the potential adverse effects of anthropogenic light flicker. We emphasize that there remains a huge gap in our knowledge of flicker perception by animals, which could potentially be hampering our understanding of its impacts on biodiversity, especially in key taxa like bats, nocturnal birds and insects.
Influence of metformin intake on serum vitamin B12 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Al-Fawaeir Saad , Al-Odat Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

Objective

To describe the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among Jordanian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with metformin and to compare the findings with those who did not receive metformin.

Design and method

Total 155 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, aged between 48 and 82 years were enrolled in the current study. They were divided into two groups; the first (n = 120) was treated with metformin while the second (n = 35) was not. Patients’ demographics (age, gender, duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus, smoking status), medication parameters (daily dosage and duration of metformin therapy), and biochemical parameters (hemoglobin level, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), serum vitamin B12, and folate level) were recorded. Definite deficiency was defined as serum vitamin B12 levels of < 150 pg/ml, whereas < 200 pg/ml indicated possible deficiency.

Results

The mean serum ± standard deviation (SD) vitamin B12 level was significantly lower in patients who were treated with metformin (268.5 ± 35.8 vs. 389.5 ± 29.8 pg/ml, p = 0.029). The metformin group had significantly higher prevalence of definite deficiency (32% vs. 9%, p < 0.02) and possible deficiency (48% vs. 30%, p < 0.02). Within the metformin group, the mean serum ± SD vitamin B12 level was significantly lower in those on high dosage (175.2 ± 30.5 vs. 315.6 ± 37.8 pg/ml, p < 0.001). MCV (μm3) levels ± SD were higher in the metformin group (87.5 ± 2.9 vs. 83.7 ± 2.4) with no statistical significance.

Conclusion

There is a significant association between metformin intake and vitamin B12 deficiency. Serum vitamin B12 levels should be checked by physicians and serial monitoring is necessary in patients who are treated with metformin.
Refinement of the extended crosswise model with a number sequence randomizer: Evidence from three different studies in the UK
Authors: Sayed Khadiga H. A. , Cruyff Maarten J. L. F. , van der Heijden Peter G. M. , Petróczi Andrea
Published: December 2022

The Extended Crosswise Model (ECWM) is a randomized response model with neutral response categories, relatively simple instructions, and the availability of a goodness-of-fit test. This paper refines this model with a number sequence randomizer that virtually precludes the possibility to give evasive responses. The motivation for developing this model stems from a strategic priority of WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) to monitor the prevalence of doping use by elite athletes. For this model we derived a maximum likelihood estimator that allows for binary logistic regression analysis. Three studies were conducted on online platforms with a total of over 6, 000 respondents; two on controlled substance use and one on compliance with COVID-19 regulations in the UK during the first lockdown. The results of these studies are promising. The goodness-of-fit tests showed little to no evidence for response biases, and the ECWM yielded higher prevalence estimates than direct questions for sensitive questions, and similar ones for non-sensitive questions. Furthermore, the randomizer with the shortest number sequences yielded the smallest response error rates on a control question with known prevalence.
Uptake of appointment spacing model of care and associated factors among stable adult HIV clients on antiretroviral treatment Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Asrade Abaynew Assemu , Moges Nurilign Abebe , Meseret Maru , Alemu Kasaye Demeke , Tsega Tilahun Degu , Petrucka Pammla , Telayneh Animut Takele
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Ethiopia launched an Appointment Spacing Model in 2017, which involved a six-month clinical visit and medication refill cycle. This study aimed to assess the uptake of the Appointment Spacing Model of care and associated factors among stable adult HIV clients on ART in Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 3 to November 30, 2020 among 415 stable adult ART clients. EpiData version 4.2 was used for data entry and SPSS version 25 was used for cleaning and analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify associated factors, with CI at 95% with AOR being reported to show the strength of association.

Results

The uptake of the appointment spacing model was 50.1%. Residence [AOR: 2.33 (95% CI: 1.27, 4.26)], monthly income [AOR: 2.65 (95% CI: 1.13, 6.24)], social support [AOR: 2.21 (95% CI: 1.03, 4.71)], duration on ART [AOR: 2.41 (95% CI: 1.48, 3.92)], baseline regimen change [AOR: 2.20 (95% CI: 1.02, 4.78)], viral load [AOR: 2.80 (95% CI: 1.06, 7.35)], and alcohol abstinence [AOR: 2.02 (95% CI: 1.21, 3.37)] were statistically significant.

Conclusions

The uptake of the ASM was low. Behavioral change communication, engaging income-generating activities, and facility-level service providers’ training may improve the uptake.
Gut microbiota diversity in human strongyloidiasis differs little in two different regions in endemic areas of Thailand
Authors: Rodpai Rutchanee , Sanpool Oranuch , Janwan Penchom , Boonroumkaew Patcharaporn , Sadaow Lakkhana , Thanchomnang Tongjit , Intapan Pewpan M. , Maleewong Wanchai
Published: December 2022

Human gastrointestinal helminthic infections have a direct and/or indirect effect on the composition of the host gut microbial flora. Here, we investigated the effect of infection with a soil-transmitted intestinal nematode, Strongyloides stercoralis, on the gut microbiota of the human host. We also investigated whether composition of the microbiota in infected persons might vary across endemic regions. Fecal samples were obtained from volunteers from two areas endemic for strongyloidiasis, Khon Kaen Province in northeastern Thailand and Nakhon Si Thammarat Province in southern Thailand. Samples from Khon Kaen were from infected (SsNE) and uninfected (NegNE) individuals. Similarly, samples from the latter province were from infected (SsST) and uninfected (NegST) individuals. DNA sequences of the V3-V4 regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene were obtained from the fecal samples. No statistical difference in alpha diversity between groups in terms of richness or diversity were found. Statistical difference in beta diversity was observed only between NegNE and NegST. Some significant differences in species abundance were noted between geographical isolates. The SsNE group had a higher abundance of Tetragenococcus holophilus than did the SsST group, whereas Bradyrhizobium sp. was less abundant in the SsNE than the SsST group. For the uninfected groups, the NegNE had a higher abundance of T. holophilus than the NegST group. Our data showed that S. stercoralis infection leads to only minor alterations in the relative abundance of individual bacterial species in the human gut: no detectable effect was observed on community structure and diversity.
Food safety knowledge among pregnant women in the United Arab Emirates amid the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Al Daour Rameez , Osaili Tareq M. , Hashim Mona , Savvaidis Ioannis N. , Salim Nezar Ahmed , Al-Nabulsi Anas A. , ElSayegh Hala Bahij , Hubaishi Nawal , Coussa Ayla , Salame Anastasia , Mohamad Maysm N. , Saleh Sheima T. , Hasan Hayder , Al Dhaheri Ayesha S. , Stojanovska Lily , Cheikh Ismail Leila
Published: December 2022

Studies have indicated shortcomings in food safety knowledge and practices among pregnant women in the Arab region. A high-risk group for having severe outcomes from foodborne illnesses. This study aimed to assess self-reported food safety knowledge and practices among pregnant women in the UAE during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 354 pregnant women residing in the UAE completed an online survey between October 2021 and January 2022. The questionnaire included socio-demographic information, food safety knowledge, and food practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Correct answers for food safety knowledge were scored out of 50 and the total score was compared by sociodemographic characteristics. The total mean score for the study population was 26.7 ± 4.6 out of 50. Participants had good knowledge about foodborne diseases (81.3%) and personal hygiene practices (61.8%). While they were least knowledgeable about cross-contamination (43.3%) and temperature control practices (35.8%). Significantly higher knowledge scores were observed with higher levels of education and primigravida women (p<0.05). Knowledge about the COVID-19 virus and its relation to food safety was adequate for most participants. This study infers the need for food safety-related education and training programs to reduce the risk of foodborne disease among this vulnerable group. It also highlights the need to enhance the role of healthcare professionals as trusted sources of information in improving food safety during pregnancy.
The neural correlates of context driven changes in the emotional response: An fMRI study
Authors: Biró Brigitte , Cserjési Renáta , Kocsel Natália , Galambos Attila , Gecse Kinga , Kovács Lilla Nóra , Baksa Dániel , Juhász Gabriella , Kökönyei Gyöngyi
Published: December 2022

Emotional flexibility reflects the ability to adjust the emotional response to the changing environmental context. To understand how context can trigger a change in emotional response, i.e., how it can upregulate the initial emotional response or trigger a shift in the valence of emotional response, we used a task consisting of picture pairs during functional magnetic resonance imaging sessions. In each pair, the first picture was a smaller detail (a decontextualized photograph depicting emotions using primarily facial and postural expressions) from the second (contextualized) picture, and the neural response to a decontextualized picture was compared with the same picture in a context. Thirty-one healthy participants (18 females; mean age: 24.44 ± 3.4) were involved in the study. In general, context (vs. pictures without context) increased activation in areas involved in facial emotional processing (e.g., middle temporal gyrus, fusiform gyrus, and temporal pole) and affective mentalizing (e.g., precuneus, temporoparietal junction). After excluding the general effect of context by using an exclusive mask with activation to context vs. no-context, the automatic shift from positive to negative valence induced by the context was associated with increased activation in the thalamus, caudate, medial frontal gyrus and lateral orbitofrontal cortex. When the meaning changed from negative to positive, it resulted in a less widespread activation pattern, mainly in the precuneus, middle temporal gyrus, and occipital lobe. Providing context cues to facial information recruited brain areas that induced changes in the emotional responses and interpretation of the emotional situations automatically to support emotional flexibility.
Education and employment status among adults with Loeys-Dietz syndrome and vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome in Norway, a questionnaire based study
Authors: Johansen Heidi , Velvin Gry , Lidal Ingeborg B.
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To describe education level and employment status among adults with Loeys-Dietz syndrome and vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and explore factors related to work participation.

Materials and methods

Cross-sectional postal survey in 2018. Individuals with molecularly verified diagnosis were recruited through a National Resource Centre for Rare Disorders. A study specific questionnaire included topics on disease burden and validated instruments regarding education level, employment, pain, fatigue, psychological distress, and satisfaction with life.

Results

Fifty persons (56% women) aged 18–67 years, participated. Almost 60% reported education level ≤13 years. Two thirds (66%) received disability benefits, 21 (42%) had full-time disability pension. The median age at ending work was 41 years. Full-time employed and students were younger (p = 0.014), less fatigued (p = 0.035), had less sleep problems (p = 0.028) and higher satisfaction with life (p<0.001) than those who received disability pension. A third (32%) were currently or used to be in sedentary work, and 68% currently had or used to be in practical work requiring much standing and walking (23%), much walking and lifting (34%) or heavy manual work (11%).

Conclusions

There is a potential that more adults with these diagnoses can sustain employment for more years. Health and social service follow-up routines and future studies should include details on employment perspectives to reveal those at risk of poor employment and to identify modifiable factors for work participation.
Association between myopia progression and quantity of laser treatment for retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Hwang Eileen S. , Kassem Iris S. , Allozi Rawan , Kravets Sasha , Al-Kirwi Khalid Y. , Hallak Joelle A. , Costakos Deborah M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Previous studies found that infants with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) who were treated for more posterior disease with a greater number of laser spots developed higher myopia. These studies included multiple physicians with variations in laser density. In treatments by a single physician, laser spot count is a better surrogate for area of avascular retina and anterior-posterior location of disease, so that the relationship with myopia can be better assessed.

Methods

Our retrospective study included infants treated with laser for ROP by a single surgeon at a single center. Exclusion criteria were irregularities during laser and additional treatment for ROP. We assessed correlation between laser spot count and change in refractive error over time using a linear mixed effects model.

Results

We studied 153 eyes from 78 subjects treated with laser for ROP. The average gestational age at birth was 25.3±1.8 weeks, birth weight 737±248 grams, laser spot count 1793±728, and post-treatment follow up 37±29 months. Between corrected ages 0–1 years, the mean spherical equivalent was +0.4±2.3 diopters; between ages 1–2, it was -1.3±3.2D; and ages 2–3 was -0.8±3.1D. Eyes that received more laser spots had significantly greater change in refractive error over time (0.30D more myopia per year per 1000 spots). None of the eyes with hyperopia before 18 months developed myopia during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

Greater myopia developed over time in infants with ROP treated by laser to a larger area of avascular retina.
Cardiac strain is lower among women with HIV in relation to monocyte activation
Authors: Toribio Mabel , Awadalla Magid , Drobni Zsofia D. , Quinaglia Thiago , Wang Melissa , Durbin Claudia G. , Alagpulinsa David A. , Fourman Lindsay T. , Suero-Abreu Giselle Alexandra , Nelson Michael D. , Stanley Takara L. , Longenecker Christopher T. , Burdo Tricia H. , Neilan Tomas G. , Zanni Markella V.
Published: December 2022

Background

Women with HIV (WWH) face heightened risks of heart failure; however, insights on immune/inflammatory pathways potentially contributing to left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction among WWH remain limited.

Setting

Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.

Methods

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive measure of LV systolic function, with lower cardiac strain predicting incident heart failure and adverse heart failure outcomes. We analyzed relationships between GLS (cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging) and monocyte activation (flow cytometry) among 20 WWH and 14 women without HIV.

Results

WWH had lower GLS compared to women without HIV (WWH vs. women without HIV: 19.4±3.0 vs. 23.1±1.9%, P<0.0001). Among the whole group, HIV status was an independent predictor of lower GLS. Among WWH (but not among women without HIV), lower GLS related to a higher density of expression of HLA-DR on the surface of CD14+CD16+ monocytes (ρ = -0.45, P = 0.0475). Further, among WWH, inflammatory monocyte activation predicted lower GLS, even after controlling for CD4+ T-cell count and HIV viral load.

Conclusions

Additional studies among WWH are needed to examine the role of inflammatory monocyte activation in the pathogenesis of lower GLS and to determine whether targeting this immune pathway may mitigate risks of heart failure and/or adverse heart failure outcomes.

Trial registration

Clinical trials.gov registration: NCT02874703.
Moderation analysis of exchange rate, tourism and economic growth in Asia
Authors: Adeleye Bosede Ngozi , Ogede Jimoh Sina , Rabbani Mustafa Raza , Adam Lukman Shehu , Mazhar Maria
Published: December 2022

This study brings novelty to the tourism literature by re-examining the role of exchange rate in the tourism-growth nexus. It differs from previous tourism-led growth narrative to probe whether tourism exerts a positive effect on economic growth when the exchange rate is accounted for. Using a moderation modelling framework, instrumental variables general method of moments (IV-GMM) and quantile regression techniques in addition to real per capita GDP, tourism receipts and exchange rate, the study engages data on 44 Asian countries from 2010 to 2019. Results from the IV-GMM show that: (1) tourism exerts a positive effect on growth; (2) exchange rate depreciation hampers growth; (3) the interaction effect is positive but statistically not significant; and (4) results from EAP and SA samples are mixed. For the most part, constructive evidence from the quantile regression techniques reveals that the impact of tourism and exchange is significant at lower quantiles of 0.25 and 0.50 while the interaction effect is negative and statistically significant only for the SA sample. These are new contributions to the literature and policy recommendations are discussed.
A world without walls and an electronic culture without limit
Authors: Meyers Jeffrey
Published: December 2022

This article explores the contours of McLuhan’s prescience in the present media ecology at the intersection of the simultaneous global crises represented by authoritarian nationalism, the COVID-19 pandemic and anthropogenic climate change. This article considers the emergence of new forms of collective political subjectivity and tribalism occasioned by the internet and social media and reflects on the apparent limits of our ability to leverage technical expertise or knowledge to solve persistent problems in the material world. Finally, this article reflects on the historical instance of electronic communications media and how it intensively accelerates and compresses time in the conceptual, cultural and affective space in what Neil Postman termed ‘Technocracy’ to rethink twentieth-century ideas of the citizen subject.
Hylomorphic McLuhan: One figure, two grounds
Authors: Pugen Adam
Published: December 2022

This article draws on the issue of digital sovereignty as a probe to explore the media scholarship of Marshall McLuhan as it relates to human sovereignty. Taking seriously McLuhan’s characterization of himself as a follower of Thomas Aquinas, the article argues that McLuhan’s application of gestalt psychology to culture and technology is analogical to Aquinas’s existential development of the figure–ground polarity central to Aristotelian hylomorphism. This structural equivalence allows us to understand McLuhan’s notion of ground in two primary senses – as acoustic material potency and as tactile existential actuality. I contend that conflating the existential Ground of human artefacts with the material ground of human artefacts obsolesces the figural structure of human perception, leading to a posthuman metaphysics that is at odds both with McLuhan’s humanistic message and with efforts to promote human sovereignty in the digital world.
McLuhan, social media and ethics
Authors: Cooper Thomas
Published: December 2022

This probe meditates on media laws and media ethics, asking how do they differ and how are they related? The intersections between social media and journalism are given context with sustained attention to the effect and interrelations between culture and technology. The probe suggests an ethicist, in applying moral consideration to the contemplation of remedies through ‘presearch’, is not only unconfined by the deliberation of tetrads, but must make them springboards to achieve perception of the right ends through interdisciplinary reasoning, trained observation of individual cases, and critical examination of generally accepted beliefs.
The Immersive Enclosure: Virtual Reality in Japan, Paul Roquet (2022)
Authors: Wohar Natalia
Published: December 2022

Review of: The Immersive Enclosure: Virtual Reality in Japan, Paul Roquet (2022)

New York: Columbia University Press, 254 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-23120-534-4, h/bk, $140.00

ISBN 978-0-23120-535-1, p/bk, $35.00

ISBN 978-0-23155-596-8, e-book, $16.99
Touching stories: Why birthplace narratives matter
Authors: Hynan Martina
Published: December 2022

We have lost touch with birthplace. During the twentieth century in Ireland, childbirth was uprooted from local environments and relocated within hospital-based settings. This process contributed to a loss of touch with birthplace – a process worsened during COVID-19. There have been no maternity services for over 30 years in County Clare, a region in the west of Ireland where I conducted a series of interviews with people reflecting on their experiences of birth. These multigenerational birthplace stories inform the content and direction of the creative component of this research. As part of this research, a series of artworks is currently being made in relation to these birthplace stories, some of which are shared in this article. This research project is theoretically and methodologically rooted in critical post-humanism, in particular the work of feminist new materialists. A speculative ethics of birthplace care underpins the research and drives the development of an ethos of care that considers the entwinement of birthing bodies, matter and place.
Numerical investigation of the effect of ocean depth variations on the dynamics of a ship mounted two-DoF manipulator system
Authors: Ramadiansyah Mohamad Luthfi , Yazid Edwar , Ng Cheng Yee
Published: December 2022

The dynamics of a ship need to be considered in the development of a manipulator system that will be applied to the ocean-based operation. This paper aims to investigate the effect of ocean depth variations on the ship motion as disturbances to a ship-mounted two-DoF (Degrees of Freedom) manipulator joint torque using an inverse dynamics model. Realization is conducted by deriving the mathematical model of a two-DoF manipulator system subject to six-DoF ship motion, which is derived by using Lagrange-Euler method. It is then combined with numerical hydrodynamic simulation to obtain the ship motions under ocean depth variations, such as shallow (50 m), intermediate (750 m), and deep (3,000 m) waters. Finding results show that randomness of the ship motions appears on the manipulator joint torque. In the azimuth link, maximum joint torque is found in shallow water depth with an increment of 8.271 N.m (285.69 %) from the undisturbed manipulator. Meanwhile, the maximum joint torque of the elevation link is found in intermediate water depth with an increment of 53.321 N.m (6.63 %). However, the difference between depth variations is relatively small. This result can be used as a baseline for sizing the electrical motor and developing the robust control system for the manipulator that is mounted on the ship by considering all ocean depth conditions.
THE DISCOVERY OF CHALCORANA MEGALONESA IN JAVA AND THE EVALUATION OF ITS TAXONOMIC STATUS
Authors: Sabinhaliduna Efendi , Arisuryanti Tuty , Hamidy Amir
Published: December 2022

Chalcorana chalconota was firstly described as Hyla chalconotus Schlegel from Java, and widely recognized as Rana chalconota Boulenger. This ranid frog species has widespread distribution in Southeast Asia. Molecular studies revealed that Rana chalconota is a complex species and consisted of several cryptic species. Among Sundaland population, this group was split into five species (C. chalconota sensu stricto, C. parvaccola, C. rufipes, C. raniceps, C. megalonesa), and together with C. labialis and C. eschatia, they nested in a monophyletic group. During herpetological survey in West Java, we collected two morphotypes of Rana chalconota from Pasir Angin, Bogor and evaluated their taxonomy status using morphology approach and molecular data with 16S rRNA mitochondrial gene. The results revealed two morphotypes belong to C. chalconota sensu stricto and C. megalonesa. The genetic distance of C. megalonesa between Java population and Sarawak (Borneo) population ranged from 2.4 to 2.6% that still below the threshold of species delimitation on the 16S rRNA gene. Therefore, these two populations are conspecific. This discovery of C. megalonesa in Java has contributed to increase the number of species of amphibians in Java to become 46 species.
TRADE AND THREAT ON ORNITHOPTERA CROESUS (LEPIDOPTERA: PAPILIONIDAE), THE WALLACE’S BIRDWING BUTTERFLY IN NORTH MALUKU, INDONESIA
Authors: Peggie Djunijanti
Published: December 2022

Ornithoptera croesus, Wallace’s Golden Birdwing butterfly, is one of the most highly-demanded butterflies in the world. Annual trades of this endemic species have been monitored and mechanisms to control the trades have been developed to ensure the sustainability of the species. This paper aims to address and clarify the issues on the trade and threat to the species.  The methodology involves the probe into the CITES Trade Database, into the threat to the species based on observation during field surveys, and into the possible solution. The results showed that there were some discrepancies in the data provided by the exporter and importer of the species and that the threats to the species are real. An approach to improve the condition is discussed. The solution to meet the demand for this species is offered through captive breeding and ranching for sustainable use.
FSP-1 expression in cancer cells is relevant to long-term oncological outcomes in nonmetastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Im Sun Bin , Cho Jae Min , Kim Han Byul , Shin Dong-Hoon , Kwon Myeong Sook , Lee In Young , Son Gyung Mo
Published: December 2022

Purpose: Recent studies have revealed that the expression of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) activation biomarkers in cancer cells is associated with clinical outcomes in patients with certain types of malignant tumors. However, whether the expression of CAF activation biomarkers affects the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the expression of CAF activation biomarkers in cancer cells with cancer invasion and long-term oncological outcomes in patients with CRC.Methods: Cancer specimens obtained from 135 patients with stage I–III CRC were examined using immunohistochemical staining to evaluate the expression of fibroblast specific protein-1 (FSP-1), fibroblast activation protein α (FAPα), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and vimentin in cancer cells.Results: FSP-1 expression in cancer cells was significantly associated with lymphatic invasion, perineural invasion, tumor (T) status, and lymph node (N) status. FAPα expression in cancer cells was significantly associated with lymphatic invasion. On univariate and multivariate analyses, FSP-1 and α-SMA expression in cancer cells were associated with a short 10-year overall survival (OS) and high 10-year systemic recurrence (SR), respectively. Tumor budding was associated with a short 10-year OS. However, FAPα and vimentin did not contribute to the prognosis in this study.Conclusion: In this study, we found that FSP-1 expression in cancer cells was related to cancer invasion. Additionally, FSP-1 and α-SMA expression in cancer cells was associated with 10-year OS and SR, respectively. Therefore, these markers may be used as predictors of long-term oncological outcomes in patients with CRC.
Tools on the Plates from the Pavlovka-I Settlement (Southern Western Siberia)
Authors:   Altai State University, K. KIRYUSHIN , Yu. KIRYUSHIN ,   Altai State University
Published: December 2022

The purpose of the publication is to introduce into scientifi c circulation a collection of stone tools on plates found at the settlement of Pavlovka-I (Uglovsky district of the Altai Territory).The collection of stone artifacts kept at the Altai State University has 8851 items. The tools on the plates are 1244 pieces. Th is is the most representative category in the tool kit of the studied collection.A feature of the stone industry of Pavlovka-I is a representative series of geometric microliths and plates with an asymmetric end notch. In the composition of the stone industries of the settlement complexes of the Neolithic and Eneolithic of Altai, such artifacts are represented by single specimens and do not constitute any statistically signifi cant series.The paper concludes that the main array of stone artifacts of the Pavlovka-I settlement belongs to the early Neolithic.
Surveillance for Colorectal Neoplasia in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: When to Stop
Authors: Axelrad Jordan E. , Cross Raymond K.
Published: December 2022

Patients with chronic ulcerative and Crohn's colitis are at increased risk for colorectal neoplasia(CRN [dysplasia and cancer]) compared to the general population. Risk factors for CRN include extent of colitis, cumulative inflammatory burden, family history of colorectal cancer, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Best practices to prevent CRN include control of colonic inflammation, high quality surveillance colonoscopy with or without enhanced imaging techniques, resection of visible dysplasia if possible, and colectomy in patients with unresectable dysplasia, invisible multifocal low grade dysplasia, or invisible high grade dysplasia. Cessation of dysplasia surveillance is individualized and should involve shared decision making based on factors including but not limited to chronologic age, frailty, co-morbid conditions, life expectancy, results of prior surveillance exams, and risk factors for CRN.
Teacher’s Strategy in Familiarizing Children to Speak Good Words in Early Childhood
Authors: Deska Luma Aprita , Wirman Asdi
Published: December 2022

Purpose – An attractive teacher’s strategy for getting children to speak kind words to friends, teachers and parents. TK Harapan Bunda Parak Laweh, children are accustomed to speaking kind words from an early age, so, in the future, children will get used to speaking kind words to the people around them. This research aims to describe teachers’ strategies, such as approaches and methods in getting children to speak words. good at TK Harapan Bunda Parak Laweh Padang.Design/methods/approach – This study uses a qualitative approach. This method uses descriptive qualitative. The informants of this study were the principal and teacher of TK Harapan Bunda Parak Laweh Padang. Data collection techniques, namely observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis techniques were carried out by collecting, reducing, presenting, and drawing conclusions. The data validation technique is a triangulation technique.Findings – The research results show that the teacher accustoms children to speaking good words by making the teacher a role model, and rules with children behaving at school, giving advice and punishment if children speak bad words. While the approach used by the teacher to instill a good speech attitude is to apply child-centered learning, the teacher gives the child space for children to think and explore, the teacher serves as a companion or facilitator for the child when the child makes a mistake in behaving and speaking, the teacher immediately scolds and gives directions to the child. So, it can be concluded that the strategy used by the teacher is the strategy of implementing role models. The teacher is an example for children and takes approaches and methods to accustom children to speaking well, such as telling stories and conversing and implementing learning strategies with student center learning methods where learning is child-centered.Research implications/limitations – This research only focuses on teachers’ strategies to get children to speak good words at Harapan Bunda Parak Laweh Padang.Practical implications – This research contributes knowledge and provides teachers with examples of strategies for getting children to speak well.Originality/value – Research can be used to find out the strategies used by teachers to familiarize children with good speech.Paper type: Research paper
Sharenting of Young Mothers in Yogyakarta: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Hasanah Fitria Fauziah , Ermawati Mela
Published: December 2022

This research is motivated by the rising phenomenon of young mothers who do sharenting. Sharenting is a phenomenon of parents' habit of sharing information about their children on social media. This study aimed to identify descriptions sharenting by young mothers in Yogyakarta. This study employed descriptive qualitative research, collecting data through interviews, observations, and recordings. The data analysis technique in this study adopts phenomenological research analysis. Findings suggest that sharenting among young mothers includes young mothers sharing using social media accounts to make information about their children more accessible to others; young mothers sharenting without regard for anonymous sharing; and young mothers accidentally exposing their children's real whereabouts or full names; young mothers don't give their children veto rights over online creations; young mothers accidentally share pictures of their children undressing; and young mothers don't think the sharenting effect will affect their children's present and future state.

Keywords: Sharenting, Young mothers, Early Childhood.
Estimating the Effects of Economic Interactions in a Hierarchically Organized Space: Possibilities of the Balance Method
Authors:   Economic Research Institute FEB RAS, Dzhurka Natalya
Published: December 2022

In this paper we discuss the capabilities of input-output tables for obtaining the estimates of system effects generated by interregional interactions in the hierarchically organized space. Two options of integrating the concepts of interregional interactions and central place are presented, one of which implies the a priori, the other – the a posteriori solution to the problem of identifying (constructing) a market hierarchy. While the first one is used only in situations when the system effects are reduced to the spill-over of economic activity from the periphery to the center, the second one is used in more general situations when the system effects include not only spill-over effects but also the feedback effects. We consider the feedback loop input-output analysis, which allows us to get a posteriori estimates of regions distribution by the levels of spatial hierarchy. And determine that it had varying effectiveness for the cases of Japan and Russia. In accordance with the existing methods of decomposition of spatial multipliers the system effects of interregional interactions are determined, on the one hand, as a residual multiplier effect obtained after identifying the effects of intra-regional interactions, on the other hand, as a result of superposition of the effects of interregional interactions within the framework of dyads, triads, tetrads, etc. composed of regions. In order to obtain estimates of the system effects generated by interactions on markets of different levels (provided that these levels are identified), we propose the method of localizable partition, organizing the calculation of the structural blocks of spatial multipliers in the ‘from the general to the particular’ logic (from the system effects of interactions on the national market to the effects of interactions on local markets). On the basis of this method, we estimate the size and structure of the system effects absorbed by the economies of the three central regions of Japan (Kanto, Chubu, Kinki), which form the core of the national economic space
Factores de riesgo en la Dismorfia Muscular: una revisión bibliográfica
Authors: Peris-Delcampo David , Sala Soriano Ana
Published: December 2022

La Dismorfia Muscular (DM) es un Trastorno de la Dismorfia Corporal poco conocido hoy en día y que podría estar ganando peso debido a la gran influencia publicitaria y valoración a la imagen corporal que se está dando actualmente en las sociedades primermundistas. El objetivo de este estudio ha sido revisar y estudiar los distintos factores de riesgo que pueden llevar al desarrollo de la DM para facilitar su estudio y prevenir su desarrollo. Los resultados han ilustrado la importancia de los factores sociodemográficos y el entorno próximo a los sujetos (familias, amigos, entrenadores, redes sociales, medios de comunicación, compañeros de deporte, etc.), el fácil acceso a esteroides o sustancias dopantes; así como los refuerzos, factores psicológicos de la personalidad como altas puntuaciones en Neuroticismo, la internalización de los ideales de belleza, la autoestima o la insatisfacción corporal; que han podido influir y favorecer el desarrollo de la Dismorfia Muscular.
Motivación y adherencia a la práctica del ejercicio físico en una persona mayor. Análisis de caso.
Authors: Pérez Cordoba Eugenio Antonio , Estrada Contreras Omar , Rivas Campoy Paula
Published: December 2022

Actualmente hay suficiente evidencia científica sobre la práctica del ejercicio y los beneficios físicos, psicológicos y sociales y, por consiguiente, en la calidad de vida, que aporta en las personas mayores. El objetivo de la intervención es iniciar en la práctica físico-deportiva a una persona mayor de 80 años, con un estilo de vida sedentario y con enfermedades crónicas. Para ello, se trabajó en su motivación utilizando herramientas psicológicas como el establecimiento de metas, el refuerzo positivo y el entrenamiento en autoinstrucciones. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron incrementos positivos en los parámetros físicos y en las variables psicológicas como percepción de calidad de vida, de autoeficacia general y en la regulación de la motivación. Se cumplió con el objetivo de este estudio, ya que la participante pudo comenzar en la práctica físico-deportiva. La motivación es un factor muy importante para favorecer la adherencia, ya que la “regulación de la motivación autónoma” fue mayor. Además, la percepción de autoeficacia también influye en la adherencia, porque conforme siga percibiendo los beneficios del ejercicio físico en el desempeño de su vida diaria, está seguirá incrementando.
Preliminary driving style classification of the professional drivers
Authors: Szumska Emilia , Stańczyk Tomasz
Published: December 2022

Driving style and driver behaviour are important in evaluating city bus drivers. Buses are one of the means of public transportation in cities, used by millions of people. The purpose of this study was to present a model for preliminary classification of driving style of the professional drivers based on averaged maximum values of lateral and longitudinal acceleration recorded during regular work. First, the recorded acceleration values of 69 city bus drivers were analysed. Then, the correlation between the acceleration values and the age and experience of the city bus drivers was examined. Based on the results of the preliminary classification of drivers, extreme values for both lateral acceleration and longitudinal acceleration (deceleration and acceleration) were obtained by 3 drivers out of the 69 tested. The study also examined the relationship between averaged values of maximum lateral and longitudinal acceleration and driver age and experience. Based on the correlation results, showed that age and the number of years of holding a driver's license are not significantly related to acceleration. Therefore, the method can be used to analyse drivers regardless of their age and experience.
An examination of some physiological and anthropometric characteristics of 10-12 year-old soccer players
Authors: Söğüt Tarkan , Akkuş Hasan
Published: December 2022

Research aim: This study aimed to examine some physiological and anthropometric characteristics of 10-12 years old soccer players. Method: 20 subjects aged 11.05±0.94, who have been actively participating in Konya Besiktas Football Schools for 3 years, voluntarily participated in the study. These subjects’ body weight, height, body fat percentage, arm span, leg length, bust length, back strength, leg strength, hand grip strength, anaerobic power, maximum oxygen consumption and 30 m sprint test measurements were made. Averages and standard deviations of the measured and calculated values were analysed using the “IBM SPSS Statistics Version v.21” statistical program. Results:  As a result of the tests and measurements made, the subjects average body weight was 37.31±7.71 kg, height 147.66±9.25 cm, body fat percentage 17.99±3.92%, arm span 145.4±10,1 cm, leg length 69.62±6.57 cm, bust length 76.51±3.4 cm, back strength 51.95±12.86 kg, leg strength 52.77±14.36 kg, hand grip strength 17.67±5.34 kg, anaerobic power value 46.07±12.22 kgm/sec, maximum oxygen consumption (maxVO2) 44.61±3.23 ml/kg/min, and 30 m sprint test score 5.74±0.32 sec. Discussion and Conclusion: As a result of the literature review, it was determined that children in the same age group have similar physiological and anthropometric characteristics.