bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jamshid Khanian: Author–Iran
Authors: Khanian Jamshid
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "War not only destroys people and cities, but also shatters the flight of our dreams. This is a theme that must always be remembered in favour of peace. The story is the safest place where the bitterness, ugliness, and horror of war can be shown."
Ali Reza Goldouzian: Illustrator–Iran
Authors: Goldouzian Ali Reza
Published: November 2023

Abstract: "Basically, illustrating a book is so similar to the movies that children and adolescents begin to identify with the characters in the story. It means this identification between the book and the audience should happen in any way, shape, or form."
Women Speaking Prophecy in Lucan's Civil War : An Ecofeminist Analysis
Authors: Zientek Laura
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Through the lens of trans-corporeality, a theoretical approach associated with ecofeminism, this paper examines the depiction of women's prophetic visions and voices in Lucan's Bellum Civile . Analysis of a Roman matrona , the Pythia of Delphi, and the Thessalian magos Erictho demonstrates the significance of women's agency within the civil war narrative and highlights how Lucan framed greater female agency as a more significant threat to established civic and cosmic order.
Type 2 Diabetes in High-risk Youth: Improving Identification and Interventions in Community Health with a Decade of Quality Improvement Efforts
Authors: Love-Osborne Kathy A. , Ringwood Haley B. , Wallace Jessica F. , Sheeder Jeanelle L. , Knierim Shanna Doucette
Published: November 2023

Abstract: Introduction. This manuscript describes quality improvement interventions with aims (1) to increase identification and follow-up testing of youth with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D) and (2) to improve outcomes for youth with prediabetes and low-range T2D (HbA1c 6.5–6.9%). Methods. Interventions included (a) dissemination of evidence-based guidelines and (b) creation of in-house weight management (WM) programs and programs to increase prediabetes follow-up testing and T2D self-management. Data from the electronic health record are presented. Results. Between 2009–2020, T2D screening for obese youth increased from 24% to 76%. Two WM programs served 2,726 unique youth for 11,110 billable visits. Youth with prediabetes seen in WM clinic had a lower risk of developing T2D if they attended three or more visits. Teaching self-monitoring blood glucose showed promise for improving HbA1c outcomes in youth with low-range T2D. Conclusions. Interventions have increased identification, access to preventive services, and treatment for youth with prediabetes and T2D.
To Infinity and Beyond: Life and Death Matters in Asian Americanist Art Critique and Jae Rhim Lee's Mushroom Burial Suit
Authors: Hue Emily
Published: November 2023

Abstract: This essay explores designer JR Lee's "mushroom death suit" and filmmaker Grace Lee's short film "Suiting Dennis" as part of a subcultural movement amongst environmental activists, sustainable designers, and public health advocates to create public awareness of alternative green choices to Western burial practices. In the urgency to leave a lighter carbon footprint on the planet—not just in life, but in death—what role do non-Western epistemologies and Asian Americanist critiques of postmortem enlightenment play in contemporary movements to "green" death?
Pulse wave measurement system by rPPG from multiple human sites by including the sole
Authors: Takahashi Masato , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Ito Akihiro , Renero-C Francisco-J , Amemiya Ayumi , Tsumura Norimichi , Iijima Norio
Published: November 2023

In this study, we explored non-contact pulse wave measurements from the extremities, particularly the soles, and examined their differences. Two experiments were conducted. First, we identified the optimal method for capturing pulse waves and discovered that the peak intensity of the green signal was the most effective. Then, we analyzed the temporal deviations between the electrocardiogram (ECG) and extremities based on these findings. Differences were observed in the face, palms, and soles of the feet in observing only three subjects. Previous attempts at extremity measurements have been made; however, our study is the first to focus on the foot sole. This study will pave the way for broader medical and research applications.
Transformation process meets innovation leadership—an analysis of new challenges in change theory
Authors: Heilemann Gerhard , Faix Werner G.
Published: November 2023

The continuous changes in the business environment require transformation processes and innovation in organizational structures to maintain competitiveness. Innovation is required for future orientation and need an appropriate leadership style to be implemented in the company successfully. Various studies in the literature examine the topic of change models and the requirements for effective implementation of changes. Based on the constant change in the labor market, which is due to ongoing digitalization, the need for research of transformation, change-management and radical or disruptive innovation remains topical. A new challenge arises with a transformation in the entire company which affects all essential business processes. Because several levels are simultaneously affected by the transformation process, a more complex concept is required for the implementation than it could be found in the literature. There is a lack of empirical research in general for innovation-driven transformation processes and a missing connection to the implementation of radical or disruptive innovation in company. The aim of this paper is to investigate the need for new research in change theory. The focus is on the importance of innovation leadership for a radical or disruptive innovation change process, what is to be classified under a comprehensive transformation process in the company. In addition, the need for an innovation transformation model is established.
Test-retest reliability of the six-minute walking distance measurements using FeetMe insoles by completely unassisted healthy adults in their homes
Authors: Mostovov Andrey , Jacobs Damien , Farid Leila , Dhellin Paul , Baille Guillaume
Published: November 2023

Wearable technology provides an opportunity for new ways of monitoring patient gait remotely, through at-home self-administered six-minute walk tests (6MWTs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of FeetMe insoles, a wearable gait assessment device, for measuring the six-minute walking distance (6MWD) during tests conducted with a one-week interval by completely unassisted healthy adults in their homes. Participants (n = 21) performed two 6MWTs at home while wearing the FeetMe insoles, and two 6MWTs at hospital while wearing FeetMe insoles and being assessed by a rater. All assessments were performed with a one-week interval between tests, no assistance was provided to the participants at home. The agreement between the 6MWD measurements made at baseline and at Week 1 was good for all test configurations and was highest for the at-home FeetMe measurements, with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.95, standard error of the measurement (SEM) of 15.02 m and coefficient of variation (CV) of 3.33%, compared to ICCs of 0.79 and 0.78, SEMs of 25.65 and 26.65 and CVs of 6.24% and 6.10% for the rater and FeetMe measurements at hospital, respectively. Our work demonstrates that the FeetMe system could provide a reliable solution allowing individuals to self-administer 6MWTs independently at home.
Attitudes and experiences regarding preventive strategies for the deaf population in Western New York
Authors: Farovitch Lorne , Padden Carol , vanWijngaarden Edwin , Miller Benjamin , Leydet Brian , Dye Timothy
Published: November 2023

People for whom English is a second language, such as the deaf population, often have unequal access to health information and low health literacy. In the context of a wider study on risk of tick-borne illness in deaf communities, we explored barriers, opportunities, and nuances to accessible health information and communication among deaf people. Semi-structured qualitative individual and group interviews were conducted with 40 deaf people in upstate New York, to explore factors associated with health literacy and health information accessibility. Interviews were conducted in American Sign Language (ASL) by a deaf researcher fluent in ASL. Data analysis included the translation of ASL signs into English words, systematic coding, and generation of themes. A total of 21 interview events (mean time per interview = 41 minutes) were conducted. Two main themes and multiple sub-themes emerged from the data: 1) Layers of obstacles faced by deaf people confirms (or reinforces) exclusion; and 2) preventive information is unavailable or inaccessible to deaf people. Sub- themes identified in the results were perceptions of the deaf community and deaf culture, complex layers of obstacles faced by deaf individuals, the digital divide, the culture of communication, awareness of tick and tick-borne disease (TBD) diseases, importance of using certified deaf interpreters (CDI), health information dissemination strategies and collaborations with the education system, and physical/virtual community engagement. The data suggested several challenges to health literacy in the deaf population, including healthcare and education inequalities and negative perceptions of deaf people by both deaf and hearing people. Improving health literacy in the deaf population requires more interpreters who themselves are deaf (“certified deaf interpreters”), provision of health information in ASL, and a greater engagement with the deaf population by education and healthcare systems.
The economic burden of Chagas disease: A systematic review
Authors: Andrade Mônica Viegas , Noronha Kenya Valéria Micaela de Souza , de Souza Aline , Motta-Santos André Soares , Braga Paulo Estevão Franco , Bracarense Henrique , de Miranda Maria Carolina Corrêa , Nascimento Bruno Ramos , Molina Israel , Martins-Melo Francisco Rogerlândio , Perel Pablo , Geissbühler Yvonne , Quijano Monica , Machado Isis Eloah , Ribeiro Antônio Luiz Pinho
Published: November 2023

Background

Chagas disease (CD) is a neglected disease affecting millions worldwide, yet little is known about its economic burden. This systematic review is part of RAISE project, a broader study that aims to estimate the global prevalence, mortality, and health and economic burden attributable to chronic CD and Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy. The objective of this study was to assess the main costs associated with the treatment of CD in both endemic and non-endemic countries.

Methods

An electronic search of the Medline, Lilacs, and Embase databases was conducted until 31st, 2022, to identify and select economic studies that evaluated treatment costs of CD. No restrictions on place or language were made. Complete or partial economic analyses were included.

Results

Fifteen studies were included, with two-thirds referring to endemic countries. The most commonly investigated cost components were inpatient care, exams, surgeries, consultation, drugs, and pacemakers. However, significant heterogeneity in the estimation methods and presentation of data was observed, highlighting the absence of standardization in the measurement methods and cost components. The most common component analyzed using the same metric was hospitalization. The mean annual hospital cost per patient ranges from $25.47 purchasing power parity US dollars (PPP-USD) to $18,823.74 PPP-USD, and the median value was $324.44 PPP-USD. The lifetime hospital cost per patient varies from $209,44 PPP-USD for general care to $14,351.68 PPP-USD for patients with heart failure.

Discussion

Despite the limitations of the included studies, this study is the first systematic review of the costs of CD treatment. The findings underscore the importance of standardizing the measurement methods and cost components for estimating the economic burden of CD and improving the comparability of cost components magnitude and cost composition analysis. Finally, assessing the economic burden is essential for public policies designed to eliminate CD, given the continued neglect of this disease.
Improving care engagement for mobile people living with HIV in rural western Kenya
Authors: Ayieko James , Charlebois Edwin D. , Maeri Irene , Owino Lawrence , Thorp Marguerite , Bukusi Elizabeth A. , Petersen Maya L. , Kamya Moses R. , Havlir Diane V. , Camlin Carol S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) assures major gains in health outcomes among people living with HIV, however, this benefit may not be realized by all due to care interruptions. Mobile populations comprise a subgroup that is likely to have sub-optimal care engagement, resulting in discontinuation of ART. We sought to evaluate the barriers to care engagement among highly mobile individuals living with HIV and explore options aimed at improving engagement in care for this group.

Methods

Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted in 2020 among a purposive sample of twelve persons living with HIV and eight health care providers in western Kenya, within a mixed methods study of mobility in communities participating in the SEARCH trial (NCT01864603). We explored the barriers to care engagement among mobile individuals living with HIV and explored different options aimed at enhancing care engagement. These included options such as a coded card containing treatment details, alternative drug packaging to conceal drug identity, longer refills to cover travel period, wrist bands with data storage capability to enable data transfer and “warm handoff” by providers to new clinics upon transfer. Data were inductively analyzed to understand the barriers and acceptability of potential interventions to address them.

Results

Stigma and lack of disclosure, rigid work schedules, and unpredictability of travel were major barriers to care engagement for highly mobile individuals living with HIV. Additionally, lack of flexibility in clinic schedules and poor provider attitude were identified as health-system-associated barriers to care engagement. Options that enhance flexibility, convenience and access to care were viewed as the most effective means of addressing the barriers to care by both patients and providers. The most preferred option was a coded card with treatment details followed by alternative drug packaging to conceal drug identity due to stigma and longer refills to cover travel periods.

Conclusion

Highly mobile individuals living with HIV desire responsive, flexible, convenient and patient-centered care delivery models to enhance care engagement. They embraced simple health delivery improvements such as coded cards, alternative drug packaging and longer refills to address challenges of mobility.
Partial-body cryostimulation procured performance and perceptual improvements in amateur middle-distance runners
Authors: De Nardi Massimo , Filipas Luca , Facheris Carlo , Righetti Stefano , Tengattini Marco , Faelli Emanuela , Bisio Ambra , Gallo Gabriele , La Torre Antonio , Ruggeri Piero , Codella Roberto
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of partial-body cryostimulation on middle-distance runners before two 3000-m tests at the speed of the first and second ventilatory threshold, and before a time to exhaustion test at 110% of the maximal aerobic speed. Twelve amateur runners (age: 46 ± 9 years; VO2max: 51.7 ± 4.9 ml·kg-1·min-1) completed six running testing sessions in a randomized counterbalanced cross-over fashion: three of them were preceded by a partial-body cryostimulation and the other three by a control condition. The testing sessions consisted of: 1) a 3000-m continuous running test at the speed of the first ventilatory threshold; 2) a 3000-m continuous running test at the speed of the second ventilatory threshold; 3) a time to exhaustion test at 110% of the maximal aerobic speed. Heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion and visual analogue scale relative to muscle pain were recorded throughout the tests. Total quality recovery was evaluated 24–48 h after the end of each test. Distance to exhaustion was higher after partial-body cryostimulation than control condition (p = 0.018; partial-body cryostimulation: 988 ± 332 m, control: 893 ± 311 m). There were differences in the ratings of perceived exertion during each split of the 3000-m continuous running test at the speed of the second ventilatory threshold (p = 0.001). Partial-body cryostimulation can be positively considered to enhance middle-distance running performance and reduce perception of effort in amateur runners.
Stress and headaches in university students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Francisco Jenna , Golshan Faly , Morrison Todd G. , Mickleborough Marla
Published: November 2023

With regards to the relationship between mental and physical health conditions, some studies predict increased headache frequency as a result of exposure to stressful situations. Thus, the purpose of our study was to investigate whether headache characteristics among a sample of university students (N = 234) correlated with fear of COVID-19, stress and quality of life vis-à-vis the pandemic. We found statistically significant positive correlations between headache frequency and both general stress and quality of life. Further, results from a multiple regression analysis suggested that fear of COVID-19 did not account for incremental variance in headache intensity. Explanations for our key findings, limitations of our study, and future directions for post pandemic studies on headache experience are outlined.
Valorization of agro-industrial waste from the cassava industry as esterified cellulose butyrate for polyhydroxybutyrate-based biocomposites
Authors: Theeraseematham Passaraporn , Aht-Ong Duangdao , Honda Kohsuke , Napathorn Suchada Chanprateep
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to utilize cassava pulp to prepare biocomposites comprising microcrystalline cellulose from cassava pulp (CP-MCC) as a filler and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) synthesized in-house by Cupriavidus necator strain A-04. The CP-MCC was extracted from fresh cassava pulp. Next, the CP-MCC surface was modified with butyryl chloride (esterified to CP-MCC butyrate) to improve dissolution and compatibility with the PHB. FTIR results confirmed that the esterified CP-MCC butyrate had aliphatic chains replacing the hydroxyl groups; this substitution increased the solubilities in acetone, chloroform, and tetrahydrofuran. Biocomposite films were prepared by varying the composition of esterified CP-MCC butyrate as a filler in the PHB matrix at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 100 wt%. The results for the 95:5 and 90:10 CP-MCC butyrate biocomposite films showed that esterification led to improvements in the thermal properties and increased tensile strengths and elongations at break. All prepared biocomposite films maintained full biodegradability.
Early marriage and its associated factors among women in Ethiopia: Systematic reviews and meta-analysis
Authors: Gebeyehu Natnael Atnafu , Gesese Molalign Melese , Tegegne Kirubel Dagnaw , Kebede Yenalem Solomon , Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Mengstie Misganaw Asmamaw , Zemene Melkamu Aderajaw , Moges Natnael , Bantie Berihun , Feleke Sefineh Fenta , Dejenie Tadesse Asmamaw , Abebe Endeshaw Chekol , Anley Denekew Tenaw , Dessie Anteneh Mengist , Bayih Wubet Alebachew , Adella Getachew Asmare
Published: November 2023

Background

Early marriage is defined as the union of one or both partners before reaching the age of 18 for the first time. This practice is widely prevalent in underdeveloped countries, particularly in Ethiopia, and has been observed to have detrimental effects on the educational and personal development of both male and female individuals.

Methods

The present study conducted a comprehensive search of the Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and PubMed databases. The data were extracted using Microsoft Excel (version 14) and analyzed using STATA statistical software. To examine publication bias, a forest plot, rank test, and Egger’s regression test were utilized. Heterogeneity was assessed by calculating I2 and conducting an overall estimated analysis. Additionally, subgroup analysis was performed based on the study region and sample size. The pooled odds ratio was calculated.

Results

Out of a total of 654 articles, 14 papers with 67,040 research participants were included in this analysis. The pooled prevalence of early marriage among women in Ethiopia was 56.34% (95% CI: 51.34–61.34), I2 = 78.3%). The Amhara region exhibited the highest prevalence of early marriage, with a rate of 59.01%, whereas the Oromia region demonstrated the lowest incidence, with a prevalence rate of 53.88%. The prevalence of early marriage was found to be 58.1% for a sample size exceeding 1000, and 50.9% for a sample size below 1000. No formal education (AOR = 5.49; 95%CI: 2.99, 10.07), primary education (AOR = 3.65; 95%CI: 2.11, 6.32), secondary education (AOR = 2.49; 95%CI: 1.60, 3.87), rural residency (AOR = 4.52; 95%CI: 1.90, 10.74) and decision made by parents (AOR = 2.44; 95%CI: 1.36, 4.39) were associated factors.

Conclusion and recommendation

In Ethiopia, there was a high rate of early marriage among women. The research findings indicate that early marriage is more prevalent among mothers who possess lower levels of educational attainment, reside in rural areas, and are subject to parental decision-making. Our stance is firmly in favor of expanding the availability of maternal education and promoting urban residency. Furthermore, the promotion of autonomous decision-making by clients regarding their marital affairs is of paramount importance to family leaders.
The impacts of economic policy uncertainty on firm cash holding in China
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Jiannan , Tang Decai , Shang Li , Boamah Valentina , Xu Jiayi , Deng Zixuan
Published: November 2023

Cash holding is an important strategic decision of enterprises. As a macro-level factor, economic policy uncertainty causes risks, affecting enterprises’ cash holdings. Taking the quarterly financial data of China’s A-share non-financial listed firms for 2010–2020 as a sample, this study adopts the OLS and fixed effect models to investigate how corporate cash holdings are affected by economic policy uncertainty. The findings indicate that economic policy uncertainty is directly proportional to the level of cash that listed corporations hold. The higher the uncertainty, the more cash the company holds. Among them, state-owned enterprises and the manufacturing industry are more significantly affected by economic policy uncertainty. Finally, considering the regional marketization level and the differences in financing constraints enterprises face, it is concluded through grouping empirical studies that enterprises located in regions with lower marketization levels are more susceptible to policy uncertainty, while financially constrained enterprises are more susceptible to economic policy uncertainty. The study of economic policy uncertainty is helpful to guide enterprises to realize the importance of coping strategies in advance under the background of intensifying economic policy uncertainty. Therefore, this paper proposes to introduce policies on the premise of fully considering the smoothness of the economy and the differences in the conditions of firms of different natures, as well as some proposals to alleviate financing constraints, reduce the adverse effects of uncertainty on firms, and bolster the marketization process.
Mass animal sacrifice at casas del Turuñuelo (Guareña, Spain): A unique Tartessian (Iron Age) site in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Iborra Eres Mª Pilar , Albizuri Silvia , Gutiérrez Rodríguez Mario , Jiménez Fragoso Joaquín , Lira Garrido Jaime , Martín Cuervo María , Martínez Sánchez Rafael M. , Martínez Valle Rafael , Mayoral Calzada Ana Isabel , Nieto Espinet Ariadna , Rodríguez González Esther , Valenzuela-Lamas Silvia , Celestino Pérez Sebastián
Published: November 2023

Zooarchaeological analyses of the skeletal remains of 52 animals unearthed in the courtyard of an Iron Age Tartessian building known as Casas del Turuñuelo (Badajoz, Spain) shed light on a massive sacrifice forming part of a series of rituals linked to the site’s last period of activity and final abandonment. The rites took place towards the end of the 5th century BCE when both the building (intentionally destroyed) and the sacrificed animals were intentionally buried under a tumulus 90 m in diameter and 6 m high. The main objective of the zooarchaeological and microstratigraphic analyses was to determine the phasing of the sacrificial depositions. Evidence gathered from taphonomic assessments and a series of radiocarbon datings indicate that the sacrifices fall into three consecutive phases spanning several years. The findings of the zooarchaeological analyses clearly point to a selection of equid and cattle males. Adult equids predominate (MNI = 41) followed by adult and sub-adult cattle (MNI = 6). Pigs, in turn, are only represented by a few adults and sub-adult females (MNI = 4). Among the animals is a single dog of undetermined sex between 3 and 4 years of age. The fact that the animals are mostly adults discards the likelihood that they died from natural causes or an epidemic. In addition, the scenographic deposition of certain equids in pairs, as well as evidence of the burning of plant offerings, suggest an intentional ritualistic sacrifice. Nine of the initial depositions of Phase 1 in the SE quadrant were scattered and certain of their bones bear marks characteristic of both prolonged open air exposure and scavengers. Another 31 animals from Phases 1 and 2 are represented by almost complete, articulated skeletons, indicating they were promptly covered. Phase 3, by contrast, reveals both almost complete and partial animals bearing clear signs of processing for human consumption. This study thus sheds light on both the sequence of the animal sacrifices and the protocols linked to rites accompanied by the celebration of banquets. Certain features associated with the sealing of this building under a tumulus offer evidence of the decline of the Tartessian Culture. This study thus advances notions serving to contextualize ritual animal sacrifices in the framework of practice observed at other Iron Age sites in the Iberian Peninsula and elsewhere throughout Europe.
Conspiracy mentality, subclinical paranoia, and political conservatism are associated with perceived status threat
Authors: Koller William N. , Thompson Honor , Cannon Tyrone D.
Published: November 2023

Status threat (i.e., concern that one’s dominant social group will be undermined by outsiders) is a significant factor in current United States politics. While demographic factors such as race (e.g., Whiteness) and political affiliation (e.g., conservatism) tend to be associated with heightened levels of status threat, its psychological facets have yet to be fully characterized. Informed by a “paranoid” model of American politics, we explored a suite of possible psychological and demographic associates of perceived status threat, including race/ethnicity, political conservatism, analytic thinking, magical ideation, subclinical paranoia, and conspiracy mentality. In a small, quota sample drawn from the United States (N = 300), we found that conspiracy mentality, subclinical paranoia, conservatism, and age were each positively (and uniquely) associated with status threat. In addition to replicating past work linking conservatism to status threat, this study identifies subclinical paranoia and conspiracy mentality as novel psychological associates of status threat. These findings pave the way for future research regarding how and why status threat concerns may become exaggerated in certain individuals, possibly to the detriment of personal and societal wellbeing.
Catastrophic flooding effects on a Wisconsin wet prairie remnant: A shift in the disturbance regime?
Authors: Zedler Paul H. , Herrick Bradley M.
Published: November 2023

Climate change is likely to imperil native biodiversity through the increased frequency of extreme events. Here we address the short-term effects of an extreme flooding event on an unplowed prairie reserve, the Faville Prairie Wisconsin State Natural Area. This 25-ha property is a remnant of the formerly extensive Crawfish Prairie that lay on the east bank of the Crawfish River, Jefferson County, Wisconsin USA. The Faville remnant has historically been subject to late winter to spring flooding in its lower portions. In June of 2008, however, an extreme rainfall event caused flooding unprecedented in the 87-year history of streamflow, inundating the entire site. Data were available from 180 permanently marked plots sampled in 1978–79. We assessed the change by resampling these plots in 2010–2015. At the m2 scale, we found significant losses of species richness, a result of most species having fewer occurrences than in the earlier data. There was near extinction of several important prairie species and a relative increase in wetland tolerant species. Lower elevation plots, subject to the encroachment of woody plants and the invasion of Phalaris arundinacea for decades prior to the flood, had the lowest levels of species richness. However, some prairie species survived the flooding with little change, and recent anecdotal observations show that others are rebuilding their populations. Thus, if extreme floods are infrequent, the prairie should be able to recover to its former state. If, however, the hydrological regime shifts toward more frequent, growing-season floods, we predict further decline in those plant species that were the object of the preservation of this remnant. It is critical that fire management continue along with monitoring to track species’ recovery or replacement, so that corrective measures can be identified and tested to sustain the native prairie species diversity.
Privacy and security concerns with passively collected location data for digital contact tracing among U.S. college students
Authors: Belligoni Sara , Stevens Kelly A. , Hasan Samiul , Yu Haofei
Published: November 2023

People continue to use technology in new ways, and how governments harness digital information should consider privacy and security concerns. During COVID19, numerous countries deployed digital contact tracing that collect location data from user’s smartphones. However, these apps had low adoption rates and faced opposition. We launched an interdisciplinary study to evaluate smartphone location data concerns among college students in the US. Using interviews and a large survey, we find that college students have higher concerns regarding privacy, and place greater trust in local government with their location data. We discuss policy recommendations for implementing improved contact tracing efforts.
Association between hypoglycemic agent use and the risk of occurrence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jung Choungwon , Park Soyoung , Kim Hyunah
Published: November 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern with increasing prevalence and associated health impacts. Although no approved drugs are available for the NAFLD treatment, several hypoglycemic agents have been investigated as promising therapeutic agents. We aimed to compare the risk of occurrence of NAFLD with respect to the use of different hypoglycemic agents in patients with type 2 diabetes. This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Health Insurance Service–National Sample Cohort of South Korea. Participants newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (2003–2019) were included in this study. Two new user-active comparator cohorts were assembled: Cohort 1, new users of thiazolidinediones (TZD) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i), and Cohort 2, new users of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and DPP-4i. The occurrence of NAFLD was defined based claims that include diagnostic codes. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Cox proportional hazard models in 1:3 propensity score (PS)-matched cohorts. For 65,224 patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the overall prevalence of NAFLD was 42.6%. The PS-matched Cohort 1 included 6,351 and 2,117 new users of DPP-4i and TZD, respectively. Compared to DPP-4i, TZD use was associated with the decreased risk of NAFLD (HR, 0.66; 95% CI: 0.55–0.78). Cohort 2 consisted of 6,783 and 2,261 new users of DPP-4i and SGLT-2i, respectively; SGLT-2i use was associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD (HR, 0.93; 95% CI: 0.80–1.08). This population-based cohort study supports the clinical implications of prioritizing TZD and SGLT-2i over DPP-4i in reducing the risk of occurrence of NAFLD in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the findings lacked statistical significance, highlighting the need for further verification studies.
Uncertainty in the association between socio-demographic characteristics and mental health
Authors: Rybnikova Nataliya , Broitman Dani , Mary-Krause Murielle , Melchior Maria , Ben-Haim Yakov
Published: November 2023

Questionnaires are among the most basic and widespread tools to assess the mental health of a population in epidemiological and public health studies. Their most obvious advantage (firsthand self-report) is also the source of their main problems: the raw data requires interpretation, and are a snapshot of the specific sample’s status at a given time. Efforts to deal with both issues created a bi-dimensional space defined by two orthogonal axes, in which most of the quantitative mental health research can be located. Methods aimed to assure that mental health diagnoses are solidly grounded on existing raw data are part of the individual validity axis. Tools allowing the generalization of the results across the entire population compose the collective validity axis. This paper raises a different question. Since one goal of mental health assessments is to obtain results that can be generalized to some extent, an important question is how robust is a questionnaire result when applied to a different population or to the same population at a different time. In this case, there is deep uncertainty, without any a priori probabilistic information. The main claim of this paper is that this task requires the development of a new robustness to deep uncertainty axis, defining a three-dimensional research space. We demonstrate the analysis of deep uncertainty using the concept of robustness in info-gap decision theory. Based on data from questionnaires collected before and during the Covid-19 pandemic, we first locate a mental health assessment in the space defined by the individual validity axis and the collective validity axis. Then we develop a model of info-gap robustness to uncertainty in mental health assessment, showing how the robustness to deep uncertainty axis interacts with the other two axes, highlighting the contributions and the limitations of this approach. The ability to measure robustness to deep uncertainty in the mental health realm is important particularly in troubled and changing times. In this paper, we provide the basic methodological building blocks of the suggested approach using the outbreak of Covid-19 as a recent example.
Salvador Dalí’s legacy in the history of public relations: A psychoanalytic and surrealist connection with Edward Bernays
Authors: García César
Published: November 2023

This article highlights the importance of Salvador Dalí as a pioneer in the history of public relations (PR). The Catalan painter displayed intense PR and publicity activity in a number of venues, such as media relations, events and performances, creation of content in fashion magazines, movies, TV and collaborations with a variety of industries, which helped him to build a global reputation and reach the status of star in the popular culture arena. The piece also explores the parallelisms between Dalí and Edward Bernays. They both captured the spirit of their times and used communication similarly and during the same period. The use of psychoanalysis for their work was an aspect in common that helped to establish parallelisms between both and even conclude there is a surrealistic element in PR practice that is often overlooked.
Development and Performance Evaluation of a Simulation Training Module for Children with Bronchiolitis Obliterans
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Park Min Hyang , Kim Jong Im
Published: November 2023

Research Purpose: This study aimed to provide baseline data for improving pediatric nursing simulation education. It developed and applied a tailored simulation practice learning module for the nursing department.
Research Period & Participants: From September 16 to October 28, 2022, 97 third-year students at C Nursing College participated, focusing on pediatric nursing simulation classes.
Research Results: After the simulation practice on bronchiolitis pediatric nursing, high scores were observed in both peer and self-evaluation. Clinical performance also showed marked improvement post-simulation education.
Recommendations: Given the inherent challenges of experiencing direct procedures in pediatric nursing, more frequent simulation-based experiences are crucial. Furthermore, there's a pressing need for ongoing development of pediatric simulation modules resembling real clinical settings.
Anticipated Effect of Serious Accident Punishment Act on Air Transportation Industry's Flight Safety Promotion
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Koo Seong-Nam , Lee Jang Ryong
Published: November 2023

The Serious Accident Punishment Act has the significance that strict legal penalties are applied to managers who cause damage to human lives in violation of safety and health measures obligations. In the aviation sector, even before the enforcement of the Serious Accident Punishment Act, the role and responsibility of CEO have long been emphasized through the application of the SMS or HFACS proposed by the ICAO. However, it was not clear what to do legally if such roles and responsibilities were not fulfilled. During COVID-19, many pointed out that Korean low-cost carrier managers lacked interest and investment in flight safety, and that they lacked consideration for recognition and immunity of mistakes to encourage employees to report on company safety issues. Since the implementation of the Major Accident Punishment Act, which was the first case on April 6, 2023, implies that not only pilots but also air transport business managers should consider safety issues together and fulfill their roles and responsibilities, air transport business managers are expected to commit more in detail and actively to promoting flight safety.
Analysis of Types of Risk Characteristics for Prioritizing Reservoir Management Plans Operated by Local Government
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Choi Byoung Han , Hong Jae Joo , Won Dong Hyun
Published: November 2023

While the local reservoirs are aging severely, the resident's living space is increasing due to the expansion of amenity space downstream of the reservoir. Additionally, damage cases due to abnormal weather occur every year due to lack of practical disaster measures. This study categorized risk characteristics based on the elapsed years and the scale of human and facility damage downstream for 13,118 reservoirs under the jurisdiction of local governments, which can provide location and attribute information. It proposed priority management strategies for each category. 9,139(69%) of the analyzed subjects were identified as priority types for facility maintenance and management, 6,044(46%) were identified as priority types for downstream damage prevention support projects, and 3,495(26%) were identified as priority types for an EAP(Emergency Action Plan). Based on this research methodology, it is necessary to analyze the potential risk characteristics of reservoirs and derive reservoirs that are deemed to need management first, and establish basic data to establish management directions for reservoirs and downstream areas.
Navigating ePolicy Cycle: Big Data, Citizen, and Government
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Lee Eun Mi
Published: November 2023

This study explores the ePolicy cycle, with a specific focus on the intricate relationship between big data, citizen engagement, and government decision-making. The primary objective is to shed light on the complexities, opportunities, and challenges inherent in this dynamic interplay. The study aims to equip policymakers, government officials, data analysts, and engaged citizens with the knowledge and insights needed to effectively navigate this evolving landscape. This research examines the key components of ePolicy within the context of data-driven governance, emphasizing the principles of data privacy, security, and transparency. Furthermore, it explores the innovative ways in employed by governments to leverage the potential of big data analytics for making more informed and responsive policy decisions, as well as the growing role of citizens in co-creating public policies through digital channels. As it navigates this multifaceted terrain, the aim is to foster a deeper understanding of the ePolicy cycle and its implications for modern governance. This study seeks to empower stakeholders at all levels to responsibly leverage big data, engage citizens effectively, and ultimately forge a more collaborative, data-informed, and participatory future for government policy-making.
Envelhecendo com o tempo: Atividade Física como estilo de vida - Aging with time: Physical activity as a lifestyle
Authors: Freiberg Neto Johannes Carl
Published: November 2023

Resumo: Com o envelhecimento, há evidências de que muitas das mudanças de força e flexibilidade associadas à idade, relacionadas à função muscular e ao metabolismo, são causadas por mudanças no estilo de vida secundárias ao envelhecimento, sendo a inatividade física a principal delas. O aumento da idade é acompanhado por alterações do sistema neuromuscular, com diminuição na performance da força muscular, equilíbrio, mobilidade articular e aptidão cardiovascular, influenciando na dinâmica do aparato locomotor e no desempenho das atividades da vida diária. O presente artigo discute a atividade fícica e suas implicações ante o envelhecimento a partir de uma revisão da literatura. Obsevou-se que, em relação a fáscia, o envelhecimento tende a conduzir a mudanças relacionadas à densificação da matriz extracelular e intramuscular, as quais implicam no aumento de rigidez muscular e complacência da elasticidade do tecido fascial fibroso, atuando na perda de força muscular e diminuição da amplitude de movimento. Concluiu-se que o envelhecimento é um processo progressivo de mudanças desfavoráveis para os tecidos conectivos colagenosos, e a participação em programas de treinamento de alongamento mostram melhoras relativas na flexibilidade, enquanto o sedentarismo exacerba os efeitos de degradação das interconexões do tecido conectivo fascial, aumento de rigidez e diminuição da complacência do colágeno. Palavras-chave: Envelhecimento. Atividade física. Fáscia.  Abstract: With aging, there is evidence that many of the age-associated changes in strength and flexibility, related to muscle function and metabolism, are caused by lifestyle changes secondary to aging, with physical inactivity being the main one. Increasing age is accompanied by changes in the neuromuscular system, with a decrease in the performance of muscle strength, balance, joint mobility and cardiovascular fitness, influencing the dynamics of the locomotor apparatus and the performance of activities of daily living. This article discusses physical activity and its implications for aging based on a literature review. It was observed that, in relation to fascia, aging tends to lead to changes related to the densification of the extracellular and intramuscular matrix, which imply an increase in muscle stiffness and compliance of the elasticity of the fibrous fascial tissue, acting in the loss of muscle strength and decreased range of motion. It was concluded that aging is a progressive process of changes unfavorable to collagenous connective tissues, and participation in stretching training programs shows relative improvements in flexibility, while sedentary lifestyle exacerbates the effects of degradation of fascial connective tissue interconnections, increased stiffness and decreased collagen compliance. Keywords: Aging. Physical activity. Fascia.
Existimos, a que será que se destina? Narratividades, cuidado e práticas em saúde - We exist, what is it for? Narrativities, care and practices in health
Authors: Monteiro Fabiana Ribeiro , Viana Jayne Martins , Sousa Carolina dos Santos , Paixão Taynara Pontes , Silva Leanderson Dias da , Lima Herlem Anny dos Santos , Oliveira Yuri Monteiro de
Published: November 2023

Resumo: O presente artigo apresenta o relato de experiência da produção de conteúdo digital e ações presenciais de um projeto de extensão que tem como objetivo desenvolver ações de cultura preventiva e autocuidado no sentido intensivo-processual. No atual cenário de pandemia vários profissionais da área da saúde vêm se mobilizando num enfrentamento que vem extraindo o máximo das suas capacidades técnicas, laborais, emocionais e sociais. Problemas como cansaço físico e estresse psicológico, insuficiência e/ou negligência com relação às medidas de proteção e cuidado à saúde desses profissionais, bem como dos acadêmicos da saúde, necessitam de um agenciamento psicossocial a fim de auxiliar na produção de atitudes éticas, experienciais e potentes para a qualidade das práticas em saúde. Através dos pressupostos teórico-metodológicos da Análise Bioenergética foi possível constatar e desenvolver a abertura do biossistema e da integração autoperceptiva desses atores sociais que auxiliam na expressão e na produção de narrativas necessárias aos territórios da saúde. Palavras-chave: atenção básica, profissionais da saúde, autocuidado, corpo. Abstract: This article presents the experience report of the production of digital content and face-to-face actions of an extension project that aims to develop preventive culture and self-care actions in the intensive-procedural sense. In the current pandemic scenario, several health professionals have been mobilizing in a confrontation that has been extracting the most of their technical, work, emotional and social capacities. Problems such as physical fatigue and psychological stress, insufficiency and/or negligence in relation to the protection and health care measures of these professionals, as well as health academics, need a psychosocial agency in order to assist in the production of ethical, experiential and ethical attitudes. potent for the quality of health practices. Through the theoretical-methodological assumptions of Bioenergetic Analysis, it was possible to verify and develop the opening of the biosystem and the self-perceptive integration of these social actors that help in the expression and production of narratives necessary for health territories. Keywords: primary care, health professionals, self-care, body.