bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Descriptive Analysis of Cancer Screening Health Literacy Among Black Women Living with HIV in Baltimore, Maryland
Authors: Sun Chun-An , Chepkorir Joyline , Jennifer Waligora Mendez Kyra , Cudjoe Joycelyn , Han Hae-Ra
Published: July 2022

Background:

Black women living with HIV (WLH) have the highest HIV infection rate, cervical cancer mortality, and the lowest cancer screening use compared to other groups. However, there is a gap in knowledge about cancer screening health literacy in the Black WLH population.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess the level of cancer screening health literacy, and to identify factors associated with health literacy among Black WLH.

Methods:

This study used baseline data from a community-based randomized controlled trial for a health literacy intervention called CHECC-uP (community-based health literacy intervention for cancer control). We recruited a convenience sample of Black WLH (
N
= 123) who understand English and had no Pap testing in the prior 12 months. The outcome was cancer screening health literacy measured with a validated health literacy tool—Assessment of Health Literacy in Cancer Screening. Predictors included age, marital status, education, income, and insurance type. The association between cancer screening health literacy and predictors was assessed with multivariate logistic regression.

Key Results:

Almost one-half (49.6%) of study participants had a reading level at or below sixth grade. Older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.05) and higher educational levels (aOR 5.13) were significantly associated with higher cancer screening health literacy among our sample of Black WLH in bivariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusions:

Educational materials and other approaches to empower patients should be tested with patients who have low health literacy to ensure efficacy. [

HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2022;6(3):e175–e181.

]

Plain Language Summary:

Using a cancer screening health literacy tool, we found that about one-half of the Black WLH in the study had a reading level at or below sixth grade. Age and education level were related to their reading levels among the women. Researcher and clinicians need to test educational materials and other approaches with patients who have low health literacy to make sure they work.
Antibiotic residues in raw and pasteurized milk in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bahramian Behnam , Sani Mahmood Alizadeh , Parsa-Kondelaji Mohammad , Hosseini Hedayat , Khaledian Yousef , Rezaie Mitra
Published: July 2022

Improper use of antibiotics to treat or prevent infections, and as a stimulant for livestock growth, can affect public health and the dairy industry due to the spread of antibiotic residues in milk. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate antibiotic residues in raw and pasteurized milk in Iran. Data were collected through searching the databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, SID, and Magiran using the following keywords: "pasteurized milk", "raw milk", "milk", "antibiotic residues", " antibiotic", and "Iran". Finally, 40 eligible studies were selected for the systematic review and meta-analysis. According to the reviewed studies, the prevalence of antibiotic residues in raw and pasteurized milk was 26% (95% CI: 20–33%) and 21% (95% CI: 15-27%), respectively. It seems that the control measures are inefficient in dairy industry and milk collection centers for the presence of antibiotic residues and the time of antibiotic withdrawal during milk delivery. Permanent control of milk in the collection centers by the responsible organizations along with implementation of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point system in milk factories can be very effective in reducing antibiotic residues.
The threshold value of the number of hospital beds in a SEIHR epidemic model
Authors: Yu Yuanyuan , Wan Hui , Zhu Huaiping
Published: July 2022

To investigate the impact of the number of hospital beds on the control of infectious diseases and help allocate the limited medical resources in a region, a SEIHR epidemic model including exposed and hospitalized classes is established. Different from available models, the hospitalization rate is expressed as a function of the number of empty beds. The existence and stability of the equilibria are analyzed, and it is proved that the system undergoes backward bifurcation, Hopf bifurcation, and Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation of codimension \begin{document}$ 2 $\end{document} under certain conditions by using the center manifold theory and normal form theory. In particular, our results show that there is a threshold value for the capacity of hospital beds in a region. If the capacity of hospital beds is lower than this threshold value, there will be a backward bifurcation, which means that even if the basic reproduction number, \begin{document}$ \mathbb{R}_0 $\end{document}, is less than unity, it is not enough to prevent the outbreaks. Before taking disease control measures, one should compare the number of beds with the threshold value to avoid misjudgment and try to increase the capacity of hospital beds above this threshold value. The method to estimate the threshold value is also given. In addition, the impacts of the duration of the exposed period on the basic reproduction number and disease transmission are investigated.
Limit cycles in a switching Liénard system
Authors: Wang Xiangyu , Guo Laigang
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we consider a class of quadratic switching Liénard systems with three switching lines. We give an algorithm for computing the Lyapunov constants of this system. Based on this method, we obtain a center condition and three limit cycles bifurcating from the focus \begin{document}$ (0,0) $\end{document}. Further, an example of quadratic switching systems is constructed to show the existence of six limit cycles bifurcating from the center. This is a new low bound on the maximal number of small-amplitude limit cycles obtained in such quadratic switching systems.
A nonlocal population model for the invasion of Canada goldenrod
Authors: Fang Jian , Li Na , Xu Chenhe
Published: July 2022

A mathematical model for the population invasion of Canada goldenrod is proposed, with two reproductive modes, yearly periodic time delay and spatially nonlocal response caused by the influence of wind on the seeds. Under suitable conditions, we obtain the existence of the rightward and leftward invasion speeds and their coincidence with the minimal speeds of time periodic traveling waves. Furthermore, the invasion speeds are finite if the dispersal kernel of seeds is exponentially bounded and infinite if dispersal kernel is exponentially unbounded.
Perceived neighborhood social cohesion and cervical and breast cancer screening utilization among U.S.-born and immigrant women
Authors: La Frinere-Sandoval Quynh Nhu (Natasha) B. , Cubbin Catherine , DiNitto Diana M.
Published: July 2022

Research suggests that factors beyond the individual level, such as neighborhood-level factors, warrant further investigation in explaining preventive screening utilization disparities. In addition, research shows that immigrant women, especially recent immigrants, are less likely than U.S.-born women to utilize preventive screenings. Our study examined the relationship between perceived neighborhood social cohesion and breast and cervical cancer screening utilization among U.S.-born and immigrant women. Data came from the 2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). The sample for this study included 7801 women ages 21−64 without a hysterectomy. Of them, 1477 (19%) reported being born outside the United States. Logistic regression was used to examine associations of perceived neighborhood social cohesion and sociodemographic factors with the odds of screening by nativity status. Though we found no link between neighborhood social cohesion and Papanicolaou (Pap) test or mammogram utilization, our findings contribute to understanding sociodemographic barriers to and facilitators of preventive screening utilization among immigrant and U.S.-born women. Most importantly, racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in Pap tests and mammogram utilization were evident among immigrant women. The disparities we identified indicate the need to target prevention messages and tailor interventions to address each group's sociodemographic characteristics and needs. Our findings also support the need to expand health insurance so that all women are covered.
Influence of an ultra-thin buffer layer on the growth and properties of pseudomorphic GaAsBi layers
Authors: Pūkienė Simona , Jasinskas Algirdas , Zelioli Andrea , Stanionytė Sandra , Bukauskas Virginijus , Čechavičius Bronislovas , Dudutienė Evelina , Butkutė Renata
Published: July 2022

A series of 100 nm-thick pseudomorphic GaAsBi layers with the Bi content varying from 0.97 to 11.2% have been grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on the semi-insulating GaAs(100) substrates buffered with an ultra-thin up to 20 nm thick GaAs layer. The main attention in this work was focused on the investigation of relaxation in the Bi induced compressively-strained GaAsBi layers containing a various content of Bi. The lattice parameters of GaAs- Bi compound and the Bi concentration have been evaluated from high resolution X-ray diffraction measurements. The relaxation values of GaAsBi layers ranging from 0.4 to 3.5% were obtained analyzing the symmetric and asymmetric reciprocal space maps of (004) and (115) planes, respectively. Also, the complex study was performed to clarify the relaxation effect on structural, morphological and optical properties of bismide layers. Optical measurements revealed a significant reduction of the energy band gap from 1.34 to 0.92 eV for the layers containing 0.97–8.6% of Bi in the GaAs lattice.
La formation des étudiants militaires malgaches. Entre héritage colonial et nouvelle option à l’Est
Authors: Landmeters Romain , Tarradellas Anton
Published: July 2022

La production de l’élite militaire à Madagascar a connu plusieurs influences. Soixante ans après les indépendances, il est intéressant de questionner la construction de l’armée malgache postcoloniale. Les pérégrinations des élèves officiers, incluant en grande partie une influence européenne multiséculaire, y ont fourni des traditions, des savoir-faire mais surtout une modernité qui a fait de l’armée malgache une armée nationale dès la période précoloniale. Cette longue histoire difficile à démêler, notamment parce que les influences locales et la période socialiste peinent à ancrer leurs apports, crée diverses frustrations entre plusieurs groupes d’officiers formés ailleurs.
Promoting Academic and Life Success for Indigenous Students in the United States
Authors: Reyhner Jon , Martin Joseph
Published: July 2022

The United States has a long history of providing assimilationist, English-only schooling for American Indian (AI) students that failed to prepare them for higher education. Efforts were made in the 1960s and 1970s by the U.S. government to provide more culturally appropriate schooling and to provide pathways for AI students into higher education; however, with the passage of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001, these early efforts faltered as efforts focused on raising student test scores and largely ignored the inputs needed to interest and support AI students in higher education. Unfortunately, the NCLB approach also did little to close the racial and socioeconomic achievement gap. This chapter examines what researchers have found that can improve the chances for AI success in higher education, such as establishing programs like Upward Bound to better prepare AI students for college and implementing culturally based education.
Reflections and Actions for Colleagues of African American Women in the Academy
Authors: Webster Angela
Published: July 2022

This chapter puts forth reflective questions and strategies that advance diversity, belonging, inclusion, and equity to attract, affirm, and advance African American women in faculty, staff, and administrative roles in higher education. The author presents challenges that African American women face and proposes resolutions to create and maintain positive campus climates. Colleagues and colleges can explore their dispositions and actions to gauge their work and progress with African American women in the academy, with the goal of attaining long-term success.
E-Attendance System Using Machine Learning
Authors: Modi Yash Jitendra , Rana Kaushik , Trivedi Tirth , Patel Deesha , Sagar Mitesh
Published: July 2022

Attendance and punctuality are vital attributes of students. The mundane and repetitive manual task of taking attendance by the pedagogue results in a loss in productivity, diverting attention from key issues. To surmount this probe of performing this trivial task, the authors proposed GPU CNN-based automated attendance system (GCBAAS). Image content analysis and pattern recognition using deep learning accompanying high computing technology are rapidly expanding areas of application. Several scientific contributions in this field have demonstrated good results and with some modification ensures effective solution in this state of the art. The proposed GCBAAS methodology trained on remote GPU server minimized false labels in much less time. A simple pipeline has been created for training such enormous data on GPU servers for multiclass labeling. The performance analysis has been taken in a real class, which results in mean accuracy of 98%. Additionally, after collecting some more data with different augmentation techniques, it results in increased accuracy.
Successfully Starting and Growing Black Businesses
Authors: Crump Micah E. S.
Published: July 2022

This chapter helps define the state of Black entrepreneurship in the United States using knowledge from business, management, entrepreneurship, sociology, and economic literature. Challenges and opportunities are laid out for Black entrepreneurs to aid their success in starting and growing new businesses particularly in a post-pandemic world. Nuanced differences in Black business formalization, social networks, entrepreneurial financing, opportunity recognition, strategic planning, STEM foundation, and customer discovery and validation processes are each addressed in how they can help improve Black entrepreneurship and business ownership outcomes. Seven specific recommendations are provided and explained along with a checklist to aid primarily Black entrepreneurs to start and grow their new businesses. The chapter content can serve as a foundation for undergraduate and master's degree program Black entrepreneurship courses, and along with its reading list, as a doctoral seminar course on Black entrepreneurship.
Digital Transformation and Sustainability of Entrepreneurship for Underserved Communities in East Africa
Authors: Mwenda Nathan Mutwiri , Kimutai Carolyne Jebiwott
Published: July 2022

Digital transformations are transforming the economy and society in East Africa, and entrepreneurs need to leverage on these digital transformations to ensure the sustainability of their businesses. This chapter therefore seeks to examine the role of digital transformation on sustainability of entrepreneurship for the underserved communities in East Africa. The chapter adopts an interdisciplinary and pragmatic world view. There exist many challenges in East Africa which stifle the progress of digital adoption. For East African countries to exploit the potential of technology, they must develop the foundational building block of digital economy. Digital innovation contributes to the development of an ecosystem that revitalizes the digital economy by supporting new technology-based products and businesses. East African countries should ensure that the underserved communities receive basic education, strengthen, and integrate a multi-sectoral approach towards a regional digital and legal policy framework in order to encourage innovation and e-business.
University Teaching Innovation in the COVID-19 Dra
Authors: González-Padilla Paula , González-Torres Thais , Danvila-del-Valle Ignacio
Published: July 2022

This case study is based on contextualizing and responding to some dichotomies in education at all levels, focusing specifically on the university level and how the education system in general, and teachers in particular, can and should innovate in order to offer quality education to students. These students have been adapting to the latest technological advances. This chapter gives as an example case studies where it is demonstrated that these technological advances are not the exclusive focus on which educational innovation should be based.
Didactic Strategies for Meaningful Learning
Authors: Vargas-Hernández José G. , Tovar Vergara Myrna
Published: July 2022

This work aims to analyze and explain the didactic strategies used to achieve meaningful learning. It begins under the assumption that meaningful learning is created if students are given freedom and confidence. In this situation, they can find their own answers and develop their knowledge, both in the classroom and in practical life. The method used is an analytical-descriptive one of the reviews of the literature of the main authors who have given rise to this approach, its elements, and the didactic strategies used. It is concluded that the design and implementation of didactic strategies focused on meaningful learning with the application of active didactic methodologies and strategies in meaningful learning processes depending on the context in which it takes place. They obtain better results in the training of professionals.
Student Perception of Online Learning Amidst the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Lalngaizuali  , Lallawmawmi  , Lalthlamuanpuii Ruth
Published: July 2022

The study examined the student perception of online learning amidst the COVID-19 outbreak among the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) students in Aizawl, namely District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Institute of Advance Studies in Education (IASE), and Mizoram University B.Ed. Department, respectively. Online education is a type of educational instruction and system that is delivered to students through internet using their personal electronic device at home. For this study, 150 questionnaires were distributed among the B.Ed. students of Aizawl. The authors fetch an in-depth knowledge on how the B.Ed. students cope along with this digital distance learning. The chapter also aims at providing a suitable suggestion which will eventually contribute effective measure on student online classes amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.
Investigation of Video Game Players' Informal Learning Experiences and Their Influence on Learning English as a Foreign Language
Authors: Emre Burak , Güllep Burak , Şenel Gökay Hamdi , Liman Kaban Aysegul
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this research was to identify the influence of multiplayer online gaming on the acquisition of English as a foreign language. Means of items, modes, and standard deviations were analyzed and reported. The results of the survey reveal that online gaming has a significant positive influence on the use of English as most participants choose to communicate instead of remaining silent. Furthermore, a remarkable increase in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills have been noted thanks to voice chat and text chat functions. Vocabulary acquisition also takes place through interpersonal communication among the players, who are also able to apply the new knowledge and transfer it to offline settings. Lastly, self-regulated learning, motivation, and confidence levels as well as the willingness to collaborate are positively influenced by the online gaming experiences of the learners.
Implementing the Flipped Classroom Model and the CEFR to Enhance Learners' 21st Century Skills
Authors: Gidiotis Iosif
Published: July 2022

The recent pandemic shook the educational world to its core, changing the way in which teachers teach and learners learn. Online technologies infiltrated teaching and created a new landscape for learners. What if we used these new technologies to improve the way students are taught? This chapter will focus on the flipped classroom model as an example of blended learning in the EFL field, where technology plays a vital role in the delivery of instruction, and especially during the pandemic. The pre-class time that the flipped approach sheds light on can help support more creative and collaborative activities in the classroom, since there is no need for traditional instruction. This way, the interaction between the teacher and the learners, but also between learners themselves, can become the base for developing several of what has become known as 21st century skills. Emphasis is placed on the elements of Bloom's revised taxonomy, as well as the CEFR, as the main frameworks guiding foreign language teaching and learning.
Hydraulic Planning in Insular Urban Territories
Authors: Lousada Sérgio António Neves , Gonçalves Leonardo , Kaya Erdem
Published: July 2022

This study aims to examine the flood propensity of the main watercourse of Porto da Cruz drainage basin and, if relevant, to propose two methodologies to alleviate the impacts (i.e., detention basin sizing and riverbed roughness coefficient adjustment). Geomorphological data were obtained from the watershed characterization process and used through the SIG ArcGIS software for the flood propensity assessment and then for the calculation of the expected peak flow rate for a return period of 100 years through the Gumbel Distribution. Subsequently, the drainage capacity of the river mouth was verified using the Manning‐Strickler equation in order to establish whether the river mouth of the watershed has the capacity to drain the entire volume of rainwater in a severe flood event. In conclusion, the results demonstrate that the river mouth of the Porto da Cruz watershed does not have the capacity to drain the rain flow for the predetermined return period; thus, the detention basin was sized through the Dutch method and the simplified triangular hydrograph method.
The Sustainability Level of Agricultural Food Markets
Authors: Yildirim Seda , Yildirim Durmus Cagri , Erdogan Fatma
Published: July 2022

Food crisis and hunger issues will challenge many countries due to the effects of climate change and global warming. When considering the truth that the Mediterranean Basin is the region that has been challenged by climate change and invasive alien species much more than others in the world, food insecurity is the most critical issue. As achieving food security, Mediterranean countries should keep the balance between the population and food sources in the related region. Accordingly, determining indicators and variables guiding policy makers to develop sustainable strategies for food security will be important cases for researchers. This study aims to review the sustainability level of the agricultural food market among Mediterranean countries. It is thought to give a holistic view for agricultural food markets in the Mediterranean Basin. This study focuses on examining some selected indicators for agricultural food markets among Mediterranean countries by showing recent descriptive statistics for agricultural products as crops and cereals.
Waste Management and the COVID-19 Pandemic in Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Reyes Gonzalez Sharon
Published: July 2022

Most countries have considered waste management as a high priority since it is a problem of environmental pollution and resource depletion. The main goal of implementing environmental policies is to find or create ways to manage waste beneficial for social, environmental, and economic aspects. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the amount of waste generated got out of control, and therefore, the traditional way of handling waste was insufficient. Contextually, this chapter aims to analyze the strategies, regulations, and measures imposed by the governments of Japan, the United Kingdom, Mexico, the United States, and China to compare between them their way of controlling waste and the effects that the pandemic has left regarding the increase in waste and their way of managing them.
Low Density Tourism in the Global South
Authors: Henama Unathi Sonwabile , Apleni Lwazi , Phale Jankie Kgalabi
Published: July 2022

Tourism has grown since the first democratic elections in 1994 in South Africa, which led to the election of Nelson Mandela as President. The high levels of concentration of tourism in major urban centres has limited the developmental potential of tourism. The first type of second home tourism is located in high amenity areas and is dominated by the upper- and middle-class South Africans. The high amenity nature of these localities has led to the emergence of a strong leisure and business component alongside second home tourism. The second home tourism market in South Africa is dominated by working-class South Africans who work in urban centres and have homes in former apartheid-created homelands, where family and extended family reside on ancestral land. These working-class travellers dominate domestic tourism trips and the visiting friends and relatives market in South Africa.
The Racial Battle Fatigue of Black Graduate Women in the Academy
Authors: Colon-Alverio Ivanna D. , Flowers Tiffany D.
Published: July 2022

Black graduate women (BGW) are among the fastest-growing groups within higher education, and they make up the most significant number of students of color at graduate and undergraduate levels. Indeed, they outnumber other groups of color by two to one. This systematic literature review identifies three significant themes impacting their experiences: racial battle fatigue, intersectionality, and lack of mentorship. Recommendations are highlighted as institutional acknowledgment and support, creating mentoring opportunities and pathways to healing and freedom. Additionally, coping mechanisms are explored in the chapter.
Navigating Through Inclusiveness in Mathematics Education
Authors: Belbase Shashidhar , Opoku Maxwell Preprah , Kasemsukpipat Wandee , Saengsawang Thapanee , Pant Binod Prasad , Shrestha Indra Mani , Panthi Ram Krishna , AlAlawi Nadeia Rashed , Al Owais Najla Mohamed , Al Farra Nabil Kamal
Published: July 2022

There is an ongoing debate on issues of inclusiveness in mathematics education. This chapter highlights the issues of inclusiveness in mathematics education at all levels within four broad dimensions: prospects, priorities, processes, and problems. The prospects of inclusiveness focus on policies and practices that emphasize inclusiveness in mathematics education. The priorities of inclusiveness emphasize the necessity of this dimension from theoretical and practical aspects. The processes of inclusiveness explore the critical areas of concern that educational institutions and practitioners in the classrooms need to implement to ascertain the values and principles of inclusive teaching and learning of mathematics. There are problems with challenges and obstacles to implementing inclusiveness in mathematics teaching and learning. The authors drew upon these four key dimensions to discuss the practical implications of inclusivity in mathematics education.
Orientation and Mobility Instructions for the Visually Impaired
Authors: Mustafa Ashraf
Published: July 2022

Orientation and mobility (O&M) are recognized as integral components of the expanded core curriculum for students with visual impairment, so learners with visual impairment require direct and sequential instruction provided by an O&M specialist to be able to acquire the skills necessary to interact with others. This chapter will focus on O&M instructions with visually impaired (VI) children, a group neglected when the profession was established. To contextualize this, the chapter begins with a brief history of O&M, before reviewing various definitions of O&M and highlighting a professional philosophical approach to O&M intervention. The chapter will focus on the role of O&M specialists, then describe the core O&M techniques, as an understanding of these techniques is required to appreciate the traditional resistance to the implementation of O&M intervention with children. Also, the chapter discusses the O&M assessment for VI before concluding and discussing different techniques for O&M skills.
Darknet Traffic Analysis and Network Management for Malicious Intent Detection by Neural Network Frameworks
Authors: William P. , Choubey Siddhartha , Choubey Abha , Verma Apurv
Published: July 2022

Security breaches may be difficult to detect because attackers are continually tweaking methods to evade detection and utilize legitimate credentials that have already been deployed in network environments. Many firms have a way to resist the evolving sophistication of attacks in network traffic analysis technology. As cloud computing, DevOps, and the internet of things (IoT) become common, it has become more difficult to maintain network visibility. Automated detection of malicious intent using a weight-agnostic neural network architecture is possible with the authors' unique darknet traffic analysis and network management technology. Intelligent forensics tool for network traffic analysis and real-time identification of encrypted information is powerful. Automated neural network search techniques based on a weight-agnostic neural network (WANNs) approach may be used to discover zero-day threats. Many firms struggle to protect their important assets because of the effort required to identify malicious intent on the darknet manually. The advanced solution proposed here overcomes such obstacles.
Foreign Direct Investment During the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Sayari Karima Toumi
Published: July 2022

Foreign direct investment has been proven to be an essential element in stimulating economic growth in developing countries. Foreign direct investment has several benefits: the transfer of technology and knowledge, improving management capacity, increasing employment, improving competitiveness, and achieving a favorable balance of payments. Because of these advantages, countries are keen to attract more FDI. In this sense, the authors assess the extent to which the lockdown during the COVID-19 era may have affected FDI inflows. In addition, they explore the new role played by foreign investment promotion agencies in terms of updating FDI policies and implementing new ones—digital policies—to boost FDI entry.
Motivation for Older Adult Participation in Community-Based Physical Exercises
Authors: Abah Theresa , Prybutok Gayle L.
Published: July 2022

About 70-80% of adults who participate in any leisure exercise can reduce their risk of dying from noncommunicable diseases and promote healthy lifestyles. This study investigates relevant services offered in a community-based program that influenced healthy behavior adoption among older adults. Using semi-structured interviews, responses were collected from 20 participants (mean age, M = 77.7, SD = 9.3), then transcribed and analyzed using Max QDA qualitative data analytic tool. Pre-assigned themes based on theory helped to understand participants' reasons to exercise. Motivation was influenced by multiple factors, grouped under three categories: attitude, belief, and enablers towards physical activity. Healthy behavior adoption was influenced by access to community resources, coordinated care, affordable care, person-focused care, and professional care. These findings are essential to program managers and policymakers working with this population, as it provides guidance in designing community-based prevention programs and policies to standardize practice.
Theory and Practice of Person-Centered Mental Health Services
Authors: Rudnick Abraham
Published: July 2022

Person-centered approaches have been demonstrated to be effective in a variety of mental healthcare contexts and across different service user populations. In this overview, the author explores fundamental notions of such person-centered approaches (PCAs) with examples from health (clinical) care, research, education, and leadership of successful person-centered applications in the mental health field. He then extends this conversation further by looking at related challenges, particularly where person-centered approaches are lacking and may be applied. He challenges various areas in mental health services by addressing commonplace examples in which person-centered approaches do not appear to occur. He concludes with a call to action for profound person-centered change at the level of self and with others, which may lead to fundamental transformation of the mental health system.
Reusable Halophilic Bacteria Attached Cellulose Acetate Nanofiber Webs for Removal of Cr (VI) and Reactive Dye
Authors: Dinc Sena Kardelen , Keskin Nalan Oya San
Published: July 2022

Hexavalent Chromium (Cr (VI)) and Reactive Blue (RB) removal efficiencies of halotolerant Citricoccus sp. were examined for different parameters such as initial pH, contact time, temperature static/shaking, NaCl concentration, and different pollutant concentrations. In this research, Citricoccus sp. attached cellulose acetate (CA) nanofiber webs (NfW) were produced by electrospinning method to improve the removal yield even further. The Cr (VI) removal yield was calculated as 11.39 ± 0.002% for the pristine CA-NfW, whereas it was 39.19 ± 0.43% for bacteria attached CA-NfW. Therefore, the Cr (VI) removal capacities of bacteria attached CA-NfW were significantly higher than that of pristine CA-NfW. In addition, reusability tests revealed that bacteria attached CA-NfW can be used at least three successive times in decolorization and Cr (VI) removal steps. The decolorization rate of the RB and Cr (VI) removal yield was found to be 31.5 ± 0.2% and 5.63 ± 0.30%, respectively. These results are promising and therefore suggest that bacteria attached CA-NfW could be applicable for the removal of wastewater containing Cr (VI) and reactive dye due to their versatility and reusability.
Leave No One Behind: Senior Citizen's Perceptions on Public Library Services in the Colombo Municipal Council Area, Sri Lanka
Authors: Alikhan Sakeena , Gangabadaarachchi Varuni
Published: July 2022

The slogan of 2030 Sustainable Development Goal is "Leave no one behind." Older adults, as a vulnerable population, require equal rights in order to achieve balanced sustainable development. However, compared to children and teens, this rising segment has been consistently overlooked in service provision. They deserve to have their later years spent wisely and effectively. A public library is one of the places where they can make good use of their free time. This study explores the services available to older persons through public libraries, as well as their perceptions of those services. This study focused on three public libraries (Colombo public library, Kotahena public library, and Susharitha public library) in Colombo Municipal Council and its older adult patrons. For this study, an exploratory research design was used. The American Library Association's "Guidelines for Library Services with 60+ Audience: Best Practices" were used to examine the four core service areas of collection, programs, facilities, and staff. Senior users believe that the collection and staff services suit their needs adequately, with few downsides when compared to the other two services - programs and facilities. According to the study, regular surveys on seniors, collaboration, awareness programs, voluntarism, and designated staff are suggested as ways to improve library services for senior adults.
Comparison of Subarachnoid Block Characteristics with Levobupivacaine at 240C and 370C for Infra-Umbilical Surgeries - a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Nag Kusha , Charles Antony John , S. Balachandar , Basha Anwar S.
Published: July 2022

Background & Aim: The temperature of a local anaesthetic solution influences its pKa and molecular kinetic activity, thereby affecting baricity. We evaluated the effects of 0.5% Levobupivacaine preheated at 37ºC on sensory and motor block characteristics and haemodynamic in patients undergoing infra-umbilical surgeries.
Methods: This was a prospective, randomised, double blinded study, in which 70 patients were allocated into two groups [Group A (n=35) and Group B (n=35)]. In Group A, patients were administered 3 mL of levobupivacaine 0.5% solution at room temperature (24 -28ºC) and patients in Group B were administered with 3 mL of levobupivacaine 0.5% solution at 37°C (Thermostatically controlled digitalized hot bath machine) into the subarachnoid space. Our primary objective was to determine the time of onset of sensory blockade at T10. Time of onset and duration of motor blockade, duration of analgesia, time to two segment regression and other adverse events after spinal anaesthesia were secondary objectives. 
Results: The time to reach a sensory block of T10 was significantly shorter in group B (Mean ±SD 2.7±2.9 min, P 0.005) compared to that in group A (Mean ±SD 4.8±4.5 min). The mean duration of sensory block was longer in group B (Mean ±SD 155.5±25.9 min, P 0.048). Time to onset of motor block, duration of motor block and time to regression of two dermatomal level were not found statistically significant among the two groups.
Conclusion: Spinal anaesthesia with 0.5% levobupivacaine heated to 37ºC shortens sensory block onset time and provides longer block duration.
Comparative study to evaluate the effect of intubation box on tracheal intubation difficulty with King Vision ® and TRUVIEW video laryngoscope in manikin in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Nazir Nazia , Saxena Anupriya
Published: July 2022

Background: The procedures related to airway can be associated with increased risk of aerosolization of SARS-CoV-2 virus posing a high risk to the personnels involved. Novel methods like the intubation box have been developed to increase the safety of healthcare workers during intubation.
Methods: In this study, 33 anaesthesiologist and critical care specialists intubated the trachea of the airway manikin (US Laerdal Medical AS) 4 times using a King Vision ® videolaryngoscope and TRUVIEW PCD TM videolaryngoscope (with and without an intubation box as described by Lai). Intubation time was primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were firstpass intubation success rate, percentage of glottic opening (POGO) score and peak force to maxillary incisors measured with a pressure sensing device.
Results: Intubation time and the pressure exerted on the incisors (detected by a click sound) were considerably higher in both groups when an intubation box was used. (Table 1) When comparing the two laryngoscopes, intubation time with the King Vision ® video laryngoscope was lower than that of TRUVIEW laryngoscope, both with and without the intubation box. (P<0.001) In both groups, rate of first pass successful intubation was higher without the intubation box, although the difference was statistically insignificant. POGO Score was not affected by intubation box but higher score was observed with King Vision ® laryngoscope. (Table 1,2).
Conclusion: This study indicates that use of an intubation box makes intubation difficult and increases the time. King Vision ® videolaryngoscope results in lesser intubation time and better glottic view as compared to TRUVIEW laryngoscope.
Pectoral Nerve I and II Blocks, Single Versus Double Path, as an Effective Pain Management Strategy in Female Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Shokri Hoda , Abd El Aziz Heba F.
Published: July 2022

Excruciating pain is a common complication following breast surgery which can be effectively treated with double path PECS I and II blocks. Sixty patients undergoing breast surgery were randomly assigned into two groups: Single-path (SP) group received a single-path pectoral nerve (PECS) I and II block, by injecting 0.25% bupivacaine 15 ml into the space between the serratus muscle and the pectoralis minor muscle, then withdrawing the needle to inject equivalent dose of bupivacaine in the plane between the pectoralis muscles. Double path group (DP) received double path block; bupivacaine 0.25% 15 ml injected into the space between pectoralis muscles through one puncture and a similar dose of bupivacaine was injected into the potential space between pectoralis minor muscle and serratus muscle through another puncture. Performance time of technique, the onset and length of the sensory block, visual analogue pain ratings (VAS), satisfaction scores, postoperative analgesic requirements and success rate were the outcomes. Single-path block had a faster performance time. Pain scores were similar at all time periods, except for 10 hours postoperatively, where double-path group had lower pain scores. In the double path block, the onset was faster and sensory block lasted longer. Double-path injection group had higher satisfaction levels. The use of double-path pectoral blocks was a beneficial approach, as it was associated with a faster onset, higher satisfaction levels, and a longer duration of analgesia.
Improving Quality and Safety of Perioperative Care in Sri Lanka Through Patient Empowerment; Role of the Anaesthetist
Authors: Jayasinghe Amila , Pinto Vasanthi
Published: July 2022

No abstract available
The temporal distribution of cyclamen mite, Phytonemus pallidus (Acari: Tarsonemidae), in strawberry and comparison of sampling methods
Authors: Renkema Justin M. , Pate Erica , Olivier Chrystel
Published: July 2022

Cyclamen mite, Phytonemus pallidus (Banks) (Acari: Tarsonemidae), is a pest of strawberry, Fragaria × ananassa Duchesne (Rosaceae), that injures new growth, resulting in damage to leaves and fruit. The primary source of cyclamen mite in strawberry is infested planting material, and damaged plants tend to occur in small, isolated patches in perennial production systems. In the present study, we determined through repeated sampling of strawberry plants in Ontario and Saskatchewan, Canada whether relative cyclamen mite population levels were stable in commercial fields and whether overwintering and field renovation (mowing) affected populations. In Ontario, cyclamen mite counts were significantly correlated for 66% (10 of 15) of the paired comparisons from six sampling dates in more than one year, indicating a relatively stable distribution of cyclamen mite patches in strawberry fields. Winter caused high mortality (100 times fewer mites in spring than fall) and mowing caused some mortality (10 times fewer mites post- than pre-mow). We found that more cyclamen mite motiles were extracted from plant material stored in ethanol and triple-washed than were extracted using Berlese funnels, although counts from leaves were correlated between methods. No cyclamen mites were found in Saskatchewan. Knowing that cyclamen mite patches are local and spread is negligible will facilitate targeted applications of controls.
Skin reaction to Covid-19 vaccine: a report of 4 cases
Authors: Bertolani Mariabeatrice , De Felici del Giudice Maria Beatrice , Ridolo Erminia , Pucciarini Francesco , Feliciani Claudio , Satolli Francesca
Published: July 2022

Since the beginning of the covid-vaccine campaign, a lot of local and systemic dermatologic reactions happening after the administration of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have been described, even if their exact biological mechanism is still debated. In this paper we report 4 cases of cutaneous manifestations arose within ten days after the first dose of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based COVID-19 vaccination: one case of giant urticaria, one case of head and neck redness and two cases of Erythema Multiforme (EM). In our experience these reactions were mild, transient and all of them resolved, not recurring after the second dose, so these manifestations shouldn’t be considered as an absolute contraindication to the second dose of vaccine, that to date is fundamental.
Asymptomatic bacteriuria – Spectrum of organisms and antibiotic resistance pattern in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Meghana B. S. , Ravi K.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major health challenge worldwide. It is a risk factor for the development of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) and urinary tract infection. Although the current guidelines do not recommend treatment of ASB among women with type 2 diabetes, it emphasizes the need for therapeutic trials based on culture sensitivity patterns. This study was aimed to determine the spectrum of organisms causing ASB and antibiotic sensitivity patterns. Therefore, we believe that this study would serve as road map to conduct therapeutic trials in subjects with ASB based on antibiotic sensitivity patterns.

Methods:

Cross-sectional study was conducted including both outpatients and inpatients on 250 Women with T2DM with no symptoms of UTI, were investigated with FBS, PPBS, HbA1C, Urine routine-microscopy and Urine culture- sensitivity. The presence of ASB among women with T2DM was studied, and antibiotic sensitivity pattern was analyzed. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The frequency of ASB in our study was found to be 39 out of 250 diabetic women, that is, 15.6%. The mean HbA1c was higher among diabetic women with ASB (9.63%) than without ASB (8.42%). Escherichia coli (58.97%) was the most common organism. Antibiotic sensitivity showed that most organisms were sensitive to amikacin (64.1%), followed by nitrofurantoin (59.0%). Most organisms were resistant to fluoroquinolone (79.5%).

Conclusions:

E. coli was the most common organism causing ASB in our study. Antibiotic sensitivity showed that most organisms were resistant to fluoroquinolones and were sensitive to amikacin. Further large-scale studies are required to study the effect of antibiotic sensitivity-directed therapeutic trials to conclude the efficacy of therapy in patients of ASB.
A Retrospective Study on Seroprevalence and Clinical Spectrum of Syphilis from a Tertiary Care Center in South India
Authors: Reddy Ananya B. , Pinto Malcolm , Hegde Spandana Prakash , Iqbal Amina Asfiya M. , Bejai Vishal , Shenoy Manjunath M
Published: July 2022

Objectives:

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and a great imitator with a varied range of clinical manifestations. Incidence of syphilis has been on the rise in the last decade. In this study, we have analyzed the seroprevalence and clinical staging of syphilis cases reported in our healthcare facility.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of syphilis by reviewing data from hospital sources from January 2017 to December 2019. Out of 8827 screened patients, the clinical data from patients who were serologically positive for both rapid plasma reagin and Treponema pallidum hemagglutination tests were retrieved and statistically analyzed.

Results:

Of the 8827 samples screened, 35 were diagnosed as cases of syphilis. Among 35 cases, primary syphilis was diagnosed in 8, secondary syphilis in 10, and latent syphilis in 17 cases. There were 4 (11.4%) females and 31 (88.6%) males. Twenty-one (60%) were married. Of 31 males, 23 (74.2%) were men who have sex with men (MSM). Among the 35 patients, 33 (94.3%) had unprotected and 2 (5.7%) had protected sexual activity. Out of them, 3 patients were human immunodeficiency virus positive, which included 2 with secondary and 1 with latent syphilis.

Conclusion:

Identification and health education of MSM, especially with respect to using barrier methods of contraception, are necessary in the prevention of transmission of STDs. With epidemiological trends showing syphilis re-emerging as a major sexually transmitted infection, there is a need to conduct multicenter prospective studies with larger sample size for better understanding and effective assessment of control measures.