bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impacts of anxiety emotion and behavioral control on student learning management system adoption
Authors: Ngafeeson Madison N. , Gautam Yuba R. , Manga Joseph A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 global pandemic reframed the argument for the importance of learning management systems (LMS) in unprecedented ways. Meanwhile, LMS users were forced to use these technologies despite the heightened anxiety compounded by the pandemic, very little technical preparation and the postpandemic learning environment that cannot depend on these pandemic-imposed regulations and adoptions. This study aims to examine the impacts of behavioral control and anxiety emotions on adoption decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative research uses structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Results showed that perceived behavioral control is very important in boosting ease of use perceptions while computer anxiety exhibited a negative impact on perceived ease of use.

Research limitations/implications

This research used cross-sectional data from a medium-sized university. Results must, therefore, be interpreted with this understanding in mind. Nonetheless, this research demonstrates the critical roles of control and emotions in technology adoption decisions among students in an online learning environment.

Originality/value

This research highlights the importance of behavioral control and anxiety emotions in technology adoption decisions. It reveals that to drive adoption, students’ control perceptions must be increased while simultaneously keeping anxiety emotions at bay. This understanding is key to communicating buy-in of LMS to students.
A decadal study reveals that restoration guided by an umbrella species does not reach target levels
Authors: Larsson Ekström Albin , Hjältén Joakim , Löfroth Therese
Published: February 2024

Maintaining structural and functional elements of ecosystems are essential in order to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem function. As a means of guiding conservation work, the umbrella species concept was developed. In Sweden, one putative umbrella species, the white‐backed woodpecker, has guided conservation and restoration of deciduous forests for two decades.

Here, we evaluate the decadal effects of restoration aimed at the white‐backed woodpecker on biodiversity of saproxylic beetles. We compare stands that were restored 12 to 21 years ago to non‐restored stands and historical white‐backed woodpecker habitats acting as restoration target stands.

Restored stands contained higher deciduous deadwood volumes than non‐restored stands but lower volumes than restoration target stands. The deadwood in restored stands was concentrated in later decay stages, whereas target stand deadwood was more evenly distributed across decay stages.

Restored stands had similar species richness and abundance of most groups of saproxylic beetles compared with non‐restored stands while not reaching the levels of restoration target stands. Species assemblages differed among all stand types with restored stands supporting late decay stage and generalist species while target stands supported more deciduous associated and threatened species.

Synthesis and applications: We conclude that after one to two decades, restoration improve stand structure and benefit beetle diversity but that target levels are not yet reached. Thus, only partial restoration is achieved. Our results stress that for restoration to be successful both continuous and repeated restoration efforts are needed and that it is important to identify target levels of important habitat characteristics when assessing restoration outcome.
Sex‐specific alterations in cognitive control following moderate prenatal alcohol exposure and transient systemic hypoxia ischemia in the rat
Authors: Dunn Brooke R. , Olguin Sarah L. , Davies Suzy , Pavlik Nathaniel G. , Brigman Jonathan L. , Hamilton Derek , Savage Daniel D. , Maxwell Jessie R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) continues to be a worldwide problem. Affected offspring display impaired neurodevelopment, including difficulties with executive control. Although PAE has also been associated with decreased blood flow to fetuses, the relationship between PAE and altered blood flow is not well understood.

Methods

We used preclinical models of PAE, transient systemic hypoxia ischemia (TSHI), and PAE + TSHI combined to assess the effects on neurodevelopmental outcomes using translationally relevant touchscreen operant platform testing. Twenty‐eight Long–Evans (Blue Spruce, Strain HsdBlu:LE) dams were randomly assigned to one of four experimental groups: Saccharin Control (Sham), 5% Ethanol (PAE), TSHI, or 5% Ethanol and TSHI (PAE + TSHI). Dams consumed either saccharin or 5% ethanol during gestation. TSHI was induced on Embryonic Day 19 (E19) during an open laparotomy where the uterine arteries were transiently occluded for 1 h. Pups were born normally and, after weaning, were separated by sex. A total of 80 offspring, 40 males and 40 females, were tested on the 5‐Choice Continuous Performance paradigm (5C‐CPT).

Results

Female offspring were significantly impacted by TSHI, but not PAE, with an increase in false alarms and a decrease in hit rates, omissions, accuracy, and correct choice latencies. In contrast, male offspring were mildly affected by PAE, but not TSHI, showing decreases in premature responses and increases in accuracy. No significant interactions between PAE and TSHI were detected on any measure.

Conclusion

Transient systemic hypoxia ischemia impaired performance on the 5C‐CPT in females, leading to a bias toward stimulus responsivity regardless of stimulus type. In contrast, TSHI did not affect male offspring, and only slight effects of PAE were seen. Together, these data suggest that TSHI in females may cause alterations in cortical structures that override alterations caused by moderate PAE.
Prognostic value of left ventricular systolic function before vascular surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Zaka Ammar , Mutahar Daud , Ponen Kreyen , Abtahi Johayer , Mridha Naim , Williams Aman B. , Kamali Mohammed , Kovoor Joshua G. , Bacchi Stephen , Gupta Aashray K. , Psaltis Peter J. , Bhamidipaty Venu
Published: February 2024

Background

Vascular surgery carries a high risk of post‐operative cardiac complications. Recent studies have shown an association between asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction and increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). This systematic review aims to evaluate the prognostic value of left ventricular function as determined by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) measured by resting echocardiography before vascular surgery.

Methods

This review conformed to PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. PubMed, OVID Medline and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to 27 October 2022. Eligible studies assessed vascular surgery patients, with multivariable‐adjusted or propensity‐matched observational studies measuring LVEF via resting echocardiography and providing risk estimates for outcomes. The primary outcomes measures were all‐cause mortality and congestive heart failure at 30 days. Secondary outcome included the composite outcome MACE.

Results

Ten observational studies were included (4872 vascular surgery patients). Studies varied widely in degree of left ventricular systolic dysfunction, symptom status, and outcome reporting, precluding reliable meta‐analysis. Available data demonstrated a trend towards increased incidence of all‐cause mortality, congestive heart failure and MACE in patients with pre‐operative LVEF <50%. Methodological quality of the included studies was found to be of moderate quality according to the Newcastle Ottawa Checklist.

Conclusion

The evidence surrounding the prognostic value of LVEF measurement before vascular surgery is currently weak and inconclusive. Larger scale, prospective studies are required to further refine cardiac risk prediction before vascular surgery.
Bleb vessel density as a predictive factor for surgical revisions after Preserflo Microshunt implantation
Authors: Schneider Sophie , Kallab Martin , Murauer Olivia , Reisinger Anna‐Sophie , Strohmaier Susanne , Huang Alex S. , Bolz Matthias , Strohmaier Clemens A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Bleb failure is a common complication after glaucoma filtration surgery. Different bleb classification schemes incorporating filtration bleb vascularization have been proposed, but the reported correlation with intraocular pressure (IOP) has been variable, possibly because of subjective vascularization grading. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate bleb vascularization after Preserflo Microshunt (PM) implantation using anterior segment OCT‐angiography (AS‐OCTA) as a biomarker for bleb failure.

Methods

Twenty‐three eyes of twenty‐three patients underwent PM implantation. Up to 12 months after surgery PM scleral passage‐centred AS‐OCTA measurements (PLEX Elite 9000) for bleb‐vessel density (BVD) determination were performed and IOP as well as necessity for surgical revisions (needling and open revision) were documented. After multi‐step image analysis (region of interest definition, artefact removal, binarization, BVD calculation), the predictive value of early postoperative BVD for surgical revisions was assessed using logistic regression modelling.

Results

Baseline IOP (23.57 ± 7.75 mmHg) decreased significantly to 8.30 ± 2.12, 9.17 ± 2.33 and 11.70 ± 4.40 mmHg after 1, 2 and 4 week(s), and 13.48 ± 5.83, 11.87 ± 4.49, 12.30 ± 6.65, 11.87 ± 3.11 and 13.05 ± 4.12 mmHg after 2, 3, 6, 9 and 12 month(s), respectively (p < 0.001). Nine patients (39%) needed surgical revisions after a median time of 2 months. Bleb vessel densities at 2 and 4 weeks were significantly associated with future surgical revisions upon logistic regression analysis (2 W/4 W likelihood‐ratio test p‐value: 0.0244/0.0098; 2 W/4 W area under the receiver operating characteristics curve: 0.796/0.909).

Conclusion

Filtration bleb vessel density can be determined using AS‐OCTA in the early postoperative period and is predictive for bleb failure after PM implantation.
It was a dog's breakfast! A radiocarbon and isotope‐based study of dogs exploring dietary change during the Mesolithic–Neolithic transition in Denmark
Authors: Maring Rikke , Olsen Jesper , Andersen Søren H. , Mannino Marcello A.
Published: February 2024

This paper examines newly acquired and previously published carbon and nitrogen isotope values in bone collagen from 58 dogs (Canis familiaris) dated to the Mesolithic–Neolithic transition. Using the Bayesian mixing model FRUITS, we estimate the marine or freshwater dietary fractions. These estimates, together with a radiocarbon‐based Bayesian statistical model, have allowed us to calculate the freshwater reservoir age for selected Danish regions. The Ertebølle and Funnel Beaker cultures display different feeding traditions, and stable isotope values of dogs cannot be used as a direct proxy for reconstructing human diet, as the foodstuffs appear to have been subject to some deliberate differentiation.
Intracorporeal antimesenteric ancillary trocar: an anastomotic technique facilitating natural orifice specimen extraction in left‐sided colorectal surgery
Authors: Seow‐En Isaac , Li Kelvin Kaiwen , Tan Emile Kwong‐Wei
Published: February 2024

Aim

Natural orifice specimen extraction (NOSE) in left‐sided colorectal surgery requires application of the circular stapler anvil to the proximal bowel without exteriorization through an additional abdominal incision. We describe an intracorporeal method to secure the stapler anvil, termed the intracorporeal antimesenteric ancillary trocar (IAAT) technique.

Method

The ancillary trocar is attached to the stapler anvil before introduction into the abdominal cavity through the anal or vaginal orifice. The colon is incised before the trocar spike is brought out through the antimesenteric surface 3–4 cm within the cut edge. A linear stapler is used to seal the bowel end. The ancillary trocar is detached and retrieved via the NOSE conduit. Following the NOSE procedure, a side‐to‐end colorectal anastomosis is performed with the transanal circular stapler.

Results

Ten consecutive patients underwent elective left‐sided colorectal resection with IAAT for NOSE (seven transanal, three transvaginal) from January to June 2023. Median age and body mass index were 66 (range 47–74) years and 24.3 (range 17.9–30.8) kg/m2 respectively. Two (20%) patients underwent sigmoid colectomy for sigmoid volvulus while eight (80%) underwent anterior resection for colorectal cancer. Median operating time, operative blood loss and postoperative length of hospital stay were 170 (range 140–240) min, 20 (range 10–40) mL and 1 (range 1–3) day respectively. There were no postoperative complications, readmissions or reoperations. Median follow‐up duration was 3 (range 1–6) months.

Conclusion

The IAAT double‐stapling side‐to‐end anastomotic technique is safe and feasible for patients undergoing left‐sided colorectal resection with NOSE, resulting in good outcomes.
Membrane molecule bouncer regulates sperm binding activity in immature oocytes in the viviparous teleost species Poecilia reticulata (guppy)
Authors: Yoshida Junki , Tajika Yuki , Uchida Kazuko , Kuwahara Makoto , Sano Kaori , Suzuki Takayuki , Hondo Eiichi , Iida Atsuo
Published: February 2024

Generally, in vertebrates, the first step toward fertilization is the ovulation of mature oocytes, followed by their binding to sperm cells outside of the ovary. Exceptionally, the oocytes of poeciliid fish are fertilized by sperm cells within the follicle, and the developmental embryo is subsequently released into the ovarian lumen before delivery. In the present study, we aimed to identify the factor(s) responsible for intrafollicular fertilization in a viviparous teleost species, Poecilia reticulata (guppy). Sperm tracking analysis in this regard indicated that in this species, sperm cells reached immature oocytes including the germinal vesicle, and the insemination assay indicated that the immature oocytes robustly adhered to the sperm cells; similar binding was not observed in Danio rerio (zebrafish) and Oryzias latipes (medaka). We also identified the Ly6/uPAR protein bouncer as the factor responsible for the observed sperm binding activity of the immature oocytes in this species. The recombinant bouncer peptide acted as an inhibitory decoy for the sperm–oocyte binding in guppy. On the other hand, ectopic expression of guppy bouncer in zebrafish oocytes resulted in interspecific sperm–oocyte binding. These results argue that bouncer is responsible for sperm–immature oocyte binding. Our findings highlight the unique reproductive strategies of guppy fish and enhance our understanding of the diverse reproductive mechanisms in vertebrates.
Do captive fish need cognitive enrichment? A test with a puzzle feeder in guppies
Authors: Varracchio Chiara , Gatto Elia , Bertolucci Cristiano , Lucon‐Xiccato Tyrone
Published: February 2024

For many mammalian and avian species, it has been proposed that cognitive enrichment, such as puzzle feeders, can improve welfare in captive conditions. A well‐established method to evaluate the need for cognitive enrichment is to observe the preference of the animal between freely available food and a puzzle feeder. We investigated this preference in a teleost fish, the guppy. In most of our experimental trials, guppies first chose the feeder with freely available food over the puzzle feeder, in contrast with what was observed in most other species. Nevertheless, the guppies' number of choices for the puzzle feeder was significantly greater than zero. Moreover, after consuming the freely available food, most of the guppies tackled the puzzle feeder. This pattern of results suggests that guppies displayed a certain interest in the puzzle feeder that was overshadowed by their strong attraction towards the free food. Interestingly, several measures of performance indicated that female guppies responded more positively towards the puzzle feeder as compared to the males, suggesting sex differences in the preference for cognitive enrichment. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential significance of cognitive enrichment for captive fish. Considering that the number of individual fish maintained in captivity exceeds by far that of any other vertebrate group, it is paramount to investigate cognitive enrichment in other teleost species.
A continuum of “normal” experience: Positioning mental health struggles as human experiences in the university context
Authors: Wiley Adrianna Nicole
Published: February 2024

This article explores how university students with mental health struggles engage in “illness‐identity” work, the process by which an individual resituates their self in relation to their illness, using a phenomenological approach. Grounded in 24 semi‐structured interviews with Canadian university students between the ages of 18 and 24 years who self‐identify as experiencing mental health struggles, I argue that students do not perform illness‐identity work by making the “I Am” or “I Have” illness identity statements commonly cited in the anthropological literature. Instead, these students focus on the phenomenological content of their struggles making what I call “I Experience” statements. In doing so these students normalize their struggles by understanding them as fluid and ephemeral experiences which exist as a continuum, refuting a construction of mental health struggles as discrete entities objectively present or not in the individual body.
Developing an online knowledge sharing platform and community of practice for health professionals: Experiences from C‐WorKS developed in North East England and Yorkshire during COVID‐19
Authors: van der Graaf Peter , Burrows Andrea , Park Helen , Sowden Sarah
Published: February 2024

Background

Although knowledge sharing online has been recognised as an important strategy for health professionals to apply research findings to their practice, limited research exists on how to develop and implement these platforms to help facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Objectives

This study evaluated an online knowledge sharing platform and community of practice developed in the North East of England and Yorkshire during COVID‐19 to support UK health and care professionals to reduce the impact of the wider consequences of COVID‐19.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with stakeholders (n = 8) and users of C‐WorKS (n = 13), followed by an online survey (n = 19) among a wider group of users to analyse knowledge use.

Results

Interview and survey findings highlighted several strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to support future development of online knowledge sharing platforms.

Discussion

Online knowledge sharing supports six ‘pillars’ of successful research and innovation partnerships. This requires distributed forms of leadership and linking of different knowledge sharing strategies, and careful combination of platforms with communities of practice.

Conclusion

Online knowledge sharing provides pragmatic and timely strategies for health professionals in the UK to apply research evidence to their practice. Our study provides generalisable, practical insights in how to develop and implement a knowledge sharing platform.
Real‐world sequential treatment patterns and clinical outcomes among patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma in Japan
Authors: Kita Yuki , Otsuka Hikari , Ito Katsuhiro , Hara Takuto , Shimura Soichiro , Kawahara Takashi , Kato Minoru , Kanamaru Sojun , Inoue Koji , Ito Hiroki , Igarashi Atsushi , Sazuka Tomokazu , Takamatsu Dai , Hashimoto Kohei , Abe Takashige , Naito Sei , Matsui Yoshiyuki , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Kitamura Hiroshi , Kobayashi Takashi ,   the Japan Urological Oncology Group
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Immune checkpoint inhibitors and enfortumab vedotin have opened new avenues for sequential treatment strategies for locally advanced/metastatic urothelial carcinoma (la/mUC). In the pre‐enfortumab vedotin era, many patients could not receive third‐line treatment owing to rapid disease progression and poor general status. This study aimed to analyze real‐world sequential treatment practices for la/mUC in Japan, with a focus on patients who do not receive third‐line treatment.

Methods

We analyzed data for 1023 la/mUC patients diagnosed between January 2020 and December 2021 at 54 institutions from a Japanese nationwide cohort.

Results

At the median follow‐up of 28.5 months, the median overall survival from first‐line initiation for 905 patients who received systemic anticancer treatment was 19.1 months. Among them, 81% and 32% received second‐ and third‐line treatment. Notably, 52% had their treatment terminated before the opportunity for third‐line treatment. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that low performance status (≥1), elevated neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (≥3), and low body mass index (<21 kg/m2) at the start of first‐line treatment were independent risk factors for not proceeding to third‐line treatment (p = 0.0024, 0.0069, and 0.0058, respectively). In this cohort, 33% had one of these factors, 36% had two, and 15% had all three.

Conclusions

This study highlights the high frequency of factors associated with poor tolerance to anticancer treatment in la/mUC patients. The findings suggest the need to establish optimal sequential treatment strategies, maximizing efficacy within time and tolerance constraints, while concurrently providing strong supportive care, considering immunological and nutritional aspects.
Best practices for managing malodorous and infected wounds in advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Hamid Habibah Abdul , Lin Xiaoqian , Qin Yuan Kun , Akim Abdah Md , Zhang Longjiu , Wang Jue , Wang Hui , Li Ying , Teng Xiaofei , Zhang Shangmeng , Xu Huanyu , Lin Xiaoqing
Published: February 2024

This cross‐sectional study was conducted to examine the most effective strategies for managing malodorous and infected wounds in patients who have been diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer. The research was conducted in Liupanshui, China. The study specifically examined demographic profiles, wound characteristics and effectiveness of wound management approaches. The study incorporated the heterogeneous sample of 289 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Data collection was conducted via structured questionnaires and medical record evaluations. Descriptive statistics and statistical analyses, such as regression analysis, were utilized to evaluate demographic attributes, wound profiles and effects of different approaches to wound management. The findings unveiled the heterogeneous demographic composition of patients, encompassing differences in socioeconomic standing, educational attainment and age. A wide range of wound characteristics were observed, as 65.7% of lesions during the acute phase with diameter between 2 and 5 centimetres, while 41.5% of lesions had this range. The most prevalent types of infections were those caused by fungi (48.4%), followed by bacterial infections lacking resistance (38.1%). A moderate degree of odour intensity was prevalent, affecting 45.0% of the cases. With maximal odour reduction of 80%, a mean healing time of 25 days and patient satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5, Negative Pressure Wound Therapy demonstrated itself to be the most efficacious treatment method. Additional approaches, such as photodynamic therapy and topical antibiotic therapy, demonstrated significant effectiveness, as evidenced by odour reductions of 70% and 75%, respectively, and patient satisfaction ratings of 4.3 and 4.2. Thus, the study determined challenges associated with management of malodorous and infected lesions among patients with advanced cervical cancer. The results underscored the significance of individualized care approaches, drew attention to efficacious wound management techniques and identified critical determinants that impacted patient recuperation. The findings of this study hold potential for advancing palliative care for individuals diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer.
Renegotiating identity. A Nordic study of adolescent's experiences of living with a parent having heart disease
Authors: Rotvig Camilla , Kikkenborg Berg Selina , Andréasson Frida , Strömberg Anna , Andersen Hege , Norekvål Tone Merete , Bernild Camilla
Published: February 2024

Aim

To explore adolescents' experiences of having a parent with heart disease.

Design

This qualitative study was performed with semi‐structured individual interviews.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 33 adolescents between 13 and 19 years old, who either had a mother or father with one of these diagnoses: ischemic heart disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, cardiac arrest or heart valve disease. The parent had been ill for at least 6 months and up to 5 years. The study was carried out in Denmark, Norway and Sweden between 2019 and 2022. The analysis was inspired by Reflexive Methodology.

Results

Three central themes emerged: Response to parental heart disease; Growing up ahead of time; and Strategies in a changed life situation. For the adolescents, heart disease was experienced as an acute and lethal disease that put their parents' lives in danger. New routines and roles not only changed everyday life within the family but they also enhanced maturity and appreciation of life. To maintain a balance in life, the adolescents pursued normality and sought a safe space to have a normal youthful life.

Conclusion

In a period known to be significant for development, life with parental heart disease appeared as a biographical disruption because adolescents renegotiated their identity to manage their new life situation.

Impact

It is important to help younger family members adapt to parental heart disease by informing them about possible reactions and supporting them in how to adapt to their new life by seeking breaks and normality.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.
How virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality facilitate teacher education: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Qin , Li Yanping
Published: February 2024

Background

Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) have sparked recently in improving the effectiveness of teacher education. However, there is a lack of review regarding the utilisation of these technologies in this field. These three technologies, namely VR, AR and MR, can be collectively referred to as extended reality (XR) (as mentioned in reference Tang et al., 2022).

Objectives

Remarkably, the utilisation of XR‐based technologies in teacher education needs to be explored. Moreover, research questions related to the training objectives, methodological features, and the effects of XR‐based teacher education remain unanswered.

Methods

To this end, the present study conducted a systematic review to analyse 52 articles from six databases (including Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ERIC, ScienceDirect, and ACM Digital Library).

Results

The results indicate that XR technologies have been primarily used to train teachers' procedural knowledge, for instance, classroom management. Furthermore, most studies have primarily focused on pre‐service teachers (PSTs) rather than in‐service teachers and utilised small sample sizes, with VR emerging as the most frequently employed tool. Finally, the majority of the studies reported that XR‐based training affected teachers positively.

Conclusions

It urges researchers and developers to consider theory‐driven training design, which increases the potential to better understand what features of XR promote in‐service teachers' and PSTs' learning and how they do so. This article additionally conducts a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis of XR‐based teacher education to offer more insightful recommendations and foster further discussion.
Encapsulation of SE‐P47 phage specific to SalmonellaEnteritidis and evaluation of its stability
Authors: Koçer Alaşalvar Gamze , Yıldırım Zeliha
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted to encapsulate the bacteriophage SE‐P47 target to Salmonella Enteritidis by extrusion method and to examine its stability. Screening and optimization of effective factors in the encapsulation process were performed using fractional factorial design and face‐centered central composite design, respectively. The optimum Na‐alginate concentration and the ratio of coating material to phage for the encapsulation of SE‐P47 phage were 1.5% (v/v) and 2:1, respectively. At the optimum encapsulation point, the highest encapsulation efficiency (98.52%), smallest capsule size (1.28 mm), and highest phage titer were achieved. When exposed to heat treatment at 80°C for 30 min, pH 2 and simulated gastric fluid (pH 2.0) for 120 min, the encapsulated phage maintained almost its stability, but the free (non‐encapsulated) phage almost lost its activity. Phage release from beads in simulated intestinal fluid reached 100% in 4 h. In addition, free and encapsulated phage completely maintained their activity for 12 months at 4 and 25°C. The Salmonella phage encapsulated in this study exhibits high stability in harsh conditions. Thus, this encapsulated phage has the potential to be used as a biocontrol agent or therapeutic purposes in the food chain.
Sexual experiences and knowledge of people with moderate intellectual disability
Authors: Estruch‐García V. , Gil‐Llario M. D. , Fernández‐García O.
Published: February 2024

Background

This study addresses the sexuality of people with moderate intellectual disabilities (PMID), a topic that has been little studied. Understanding romantic and sexual experiences is highly relevant for reducing stigma and prejudice related to their sexuality. Additionally, comprehending the level of sexual knowledge of PMID contributes to the development of preventive and sexual health education programmes tailored for this group. Our aim is to explore the sexual history (relationships, sexual behaviour, condom use and sexual abuse), sex education received and the level of sexual knowledge of PMID.

Method

The total of 142 PMID completed questionnaires about sexual knowledge and experiences, and their support staff provided additional information. Data were analysed using chi‐square test (χ2) and descriptive statistical analysis.

Results

Masturbation was the most common sexual behaviour (75.7%), especially among men (χ2 = 5.81, P < 0.05). Sexual intercourse was rare, and only 30.5% reported using condoms. Women reported a higher prevalence of self‐reported sexual abuse (27.3% vs. 6% in men). The study also highlighted misconceptions about sexual intercourse risks and contraceptive methods.

Conclusion

The results suggest that PMID need sexual education to ensure healthy sexual experiences and prevent risky behaviour.
Defining the relationship between ovarian adult granulosa cell tumors and synchronous endometrial pathology: Does ovarian tumor size correlate with endometrial cancer?
Authors: Tokalioglu Abdurrahman Alp , Oktar Okan , Sahin Mustafa , Ozturk Cagatayhan , Erdogan Ozgur , Yildirim Hande Esra Koca , Ucar Yesim , Kilic Fatih , Ersak Burak , Yalcin Necim , Ozmen Fatma , Alci Aysun , Bas Sevda , Gorgulu Goksen , Selcuk Ilker , Ucar Gokhan , Kocak Ozgur , Cakir Caner , Kilic Cigdem , Comert Gunsu Kimyon , Ureyen Isin , Toptas Tayfun , Narin Mehmet Ali , Tasci Tolga , Taskin Salih , Boran Nurettin , Ozdal Bulent , Sanci Muzaffer , Uncu Dogan , Korkmaz Vakkas , Tekin Ozlem Moraloglu , Ustun Yaprak , Ortac Fırat , Turan Taner
Published: February 2024

Objective

The main feature of adult granulosa cell tumors (AGCT) is their capacity to secrete hormones, with nearly all of them capable of synthesizing oestradiol. The primary goal of this study is to identify synchronized endometrial pathologies, particularly endometrial cancer, in AGCT patients who had undergone a hysterectomy.

Materials and Methods

The study cohort comprised retrospectively of 316 AGCT patients from 10 tertiary gynecological oncology centers. AGCT surgery consisted of bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy, hysterectomy, peritoneal cytology, omentectomy, and the excision of any suspicious lesion. The median tumor size value was used to define the relationship between tumor size and endometrial cancer. The relationship between each value and endometrial cancer was evaluated.

Results

Endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia, or hyperplasia with complex atypia, was detected in 7.3% of patients, and endometrial cancer in 3.1% of patients. Age, menopausal status, tumor size, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, ascites, and CA‐125 level were not statistically significant factors to predict endometrial cancer. There was no endometrial cancer under the age of 40, and 97.8% of women diagnosed with endometrial hyperplasia were over the age of 40. During the menopausal period, the endometrial cancer risk was 4.5%. Developing endometrial cancer increased to 12.1% from 3.2% when the size of the tumor was >150 mm in menopausal patients (p = 0.036).

Conclusion

Endometrial hyperplasia, or cancer, occurs in approximately 30% of AGCT patients. Patients diagnosed with AGCT, especially those older than 40 years, should be evaluated for endometrial pathologies. There may be a relationship between tumor size and endometrial cancer, especially in menopausal patients.
Human resource management technology, workplace performance, and employee well‐being in the British public sector
Authors: Bryson Alex , White Michael
Published: February 2024

Using linked employer–employee data for workplaces in Britain, we find high‐performance workplace practices (HPWPs) are positively associated with public sector workplace performance. Contrastingly, HPWPs are not associated with measures of public sector employees' well‐being or motivation. The implication is that the performance effects of HPWP in the public sector constitute part of efficient management technology, without the need to invoke special employee responses as mediators. Public sector findings differ from those in the private sector: in the latter, HPWPs are positively associated with some performance outcomes but employee outcomes are a complex mix of non‐significant, positive, and negative associations.
Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the rate of successful neonatal endotracheal intubation performed with a stylet versus without a stylet
Authors: Solanki Shailesh , Dogra Shivani , Gupta Pramod K. , Peters Nitin J. , Malik Muneer A. , Mahajan J. K.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Neonates in intensive care units often require endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. During this intubation procedure, a stylet is frequently used along with an endotracheal tube. Despite the widespread use of a stylet, it is still not known whether its use increases the intubation success rate. This study examined the association between stylet use and the intubation success rate in surgical neonates.

Methodology

This single‐center study was conducted between December 2021 and December 2022 in the Neonatal surgical intensive care unit of a tertiary care center in Northern India. Infants were randomized to have the endotracheal intubation procedure performed using either an endotracheal tube alone or with a stylet. The primary outcome of the study was to assess the successful first‐attempt neonatal endotracheal intubation rate with and without using a stylet. Apart from the rate of successful intubation, the duration of the intubation and complications during the intubation procedures as measured by bradycardia, desaturation episodes, and local trauma were also recorded. Both groups were thus compared on above mentioned outcomes.

Results

The total number of neonates enrolled were 200, and the overall success rate (81% in the stylet group vs. 73% in the non‐stylet group) was not statistically significant. Intubation time was however less, when stylet was used (16.2 ± 4.3 vs. 17.5 ± 5.0 s, p = .046). When the endotracheal tube size was 3 or less, the success rate was substantially higher in the stylet group (80%) than the non‐stylet group (63%), p = .03. No statistical difference was recorded for bleeding and local trauma, though the esophageal intubation rate was higher when intubation was attempted without the stylet.

Conclusion

Endotracheal intubation using a stylet did not significantly improve the success rate of the procedure, however, intubation time significantly varied between groups and in different conditions. The rigidity and curvature provided by the stylet may facilitate the process of intubation when smaller caliber endotracheal tubes are used.
Ash dieback: From Asia to Europe
Authors: Carroll Dáire , Boa Eric
Published: February 2024

Ash dieback is a disease caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. Since its emergence in the 1990s, this pandemic disease has spread throughout much of the native range of its host species, the European ash (Fraxinus excelsior). Where present, it can kill up to 85% of ash trees. The loss of these trees has had an enormous impact, particularly in Britain and Ireland where they formed an integral component of wood and farmland, supporting complex communities of other species. Thanks in part to widespread public interest, the ash dieback pandemic has also had a large political impact, leading to changes in the management of plant diseases. Now, three decades after the emergence of the disease, ambitious projects to breed tolerant plants, and evidence of natural selection for resistance, give hope for the recovery of European ash. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the history of the ash dieback pandemic, from its emergence to current efforts to mitigate its effects. We discuss the emergence of ash dieback and the wide body of research that has led to our current understanding of the disease. We question which aspects of the disease have led to it holding a particular interest to the public. With a focus on the islands of Britain and Ireland, we discuss how this has driven changes in the management of plant diseases, which may give hope for the control of emerging pathogens in the future.
Avoiding the blame game: NGOs and government narrative strategies in landscape fire policy debates in Russia
Authors: Chalaya Tatiana , Uldanov Artem
Published: February 2024

To what extent can nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) communicate policy problems in an authoritarian country, and how limited are they in narrating policy alternatives? This article seeks to develop studies on the application of the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) in Russia, extend our knowledge about the use of narrative strategies in centralized and authoritarian policy processes, highlight certain methodological peculiarities related to the devil–angel shift calculation, and test causal mechanism hypotheses that have not previously been applied to the analysis of policy debates in Russia. The study examines hypotheses based on the narrative strategies (devil–angel shift, scope of conflict, and causal mechanisms) that were used by government and NGO coalitions in the debate about “landscape fire” policies in Russia over the period 2019–2021. The results show that the differences between the coalition's narrative strategies were not as significant as had been shown previously. The government coalition uses a strong angel shift in its narratives and avoids conflict expansion. The NGO coalition demonstrates a moderate angel shift, but with the use of conflict expansion in parts of the narratives. Both coalitions use the intentional or inadvertent causal mechanism blaming the citizens for starting the fires, but differ in employing causal mechanisms when discussing the large scale of landscape fires.
400 días sin luz: la lucha de Cañada Real Galiana contra el estigma y la vulneración de derechos sobre el escenario
Authors: Mahmut Saida Santana , Sanz de León Vicente
Published: February 2024

La obra teatral 400 días sin luz producida por el Centro Dramático Nacional (CDN) de España relata el drama que vive el barrio de la Cañada Real Galiana, a 15 kilómetros del centro de Madrid, al que se le cortó el suministro eléctrico hace tres años. Los sectores V y VI donde viven 1200 familias son los más afectados. Un total de 17 nacionalidades se han unido para luchar contra la vulneración de un derecho básico, el estigma social y el racismo. La obra es interpretada por actores racializados y tres activistas de Cañada Real Galiana. El objetivo principal del artículo es conocer las características que convierten a esta obra en antirracista, anticapitalista y antipatriarcal a través del análisis de los personajes racializados y los testimonios directos de las vecinas de Cañada Real Galiana, elenco racializado, directora y dramaturga de la obra y coordinador artístico del CDN. En la metodología, a la parte analítica descriptiva a través de fuentes secundarias hemerográficas y bibliográficas, se une un desarrollo de la investigación basado en la técnica cualitativa de entrevista en profundidad o semiestandarizada, al coordinador artístico del CDN, la directora, la dramaturga, los actores racializados y las activistas. Se une la observación participante directa de una de las actrices racializadas, autora de este artículo. Se integra el análisis de los signos teatrales de Tadeusz Kowzan referidos al actor en Francesco Casseti y Federico Di Chio. Como conclusión, se constata que la configuración, tema, elenco y características de teatro político, comunitario y social de la obra le otorgan características de teatro anticapitalista, antirracista y antipatriarcal.
Funciones del estilo personal del terapeuta en profesionales del campo de las adicciones
Authors: Casari Leandro
Published: February 2024

Objetivo. Comparar el estilo personal del terapeuta entre dos grupos de profesionales, uno dedicado a la atención de pacientes drogodependientes (grupo adicciones) y otro a la atención clínica en general (grupo clínico). Método. La muestra estuvo formada por 100 psicoterapeutas que trabajan en instituciones públicas y privadas de tres provincias del interior de Argentina, pareados por las variables socioprofesionales (sexo, edad, años de experiencia profesional, enfoque teórico, grupo etario de trabajo, tipo de abordaje predominante, duración del tratamiento y grado de especialización). El instrumento empleado fue el Cuestionario de Estilo Personal del Terapeuta. Resultados. Para el análisis de datos se emplearon pruebas de comparación de medias y se analizó su tamaño del efecto. Se obtuvieron diferencias signifi cativas en la función expresiva: grupo clínico (M = 40.36) y grupo adicciones (M = 29.86); así como también en la función instruccional: grupo clínico (M = 28.01) y grupo adicciones (M = 32.67). Esto indica una mayor distancia emocional y un incremento en la rigidez del encuadre terapéutico en los terapeutas de pacientes adictos. Conclusión. Se discuten estos resultados en función de postulados previos que señalan la complejidad del vínculo terapéutico y el énfasis en las características del encuadre terapéutico, tal como la puesta de límites.
Límite fino y transliminalidad en relación con experiencias aparicionales y sensación de presencia
Authors: Parra Alejandro
Published: February 2024

Objetivo. Comparar la transliminalidad y el límite fi no en personas que tienen experiencias de apariciones y sensación de presencia con un grupo control. Se plantea como hipótesis que las personas que reportan experiencias aparicionales y sensación de presencia tienen: (a) mayor propensión a tener experiencias anómalas, (b) mayor transliminalidad y (c) límites más fi nos en comparación con un grupo control. Método.Se administraron cuatro medidas, la Escala Cardiff de Percepciones Anómalas, la Escala de Transliminalidad (revisada), el Inventario de Experiencias Anómalo/Paranormales y el Cuestionario de Límites, a una muestra compuesta por 203 participantes interesados en experiencias paranormales (151 mujeres y 52 hombres). Resultados. Se confi rmaron las tres hipótesis, esto es, mayor nivel de experiencias anómalas, transliminalidad y límite más fi no en individuos que reportan la experiencia en comparación con quienes no las reportan.Conclusión. Estos resultados indican que, particularmente, el constructo de límite fi no refl eja unos procesos atencionales o hiperestesia particular para la detección del entorno en aquellos involucrados en presuntas experiencias aparicionales.
Goals and Strategies to Solve Peer Conflict: Comparison by Aggression Trajectories
Authors: Douglas Brooke , Orpinas Pamela
Published: February 2024

Objective.

Prior research identified three trajectories of adolescent aggressive behavior from Grades 6 to 12:

Low, Medium Desisting, and High Desisting Aggression. This study examined whether youth in these trajectories

differed in their goals and strategies to solve conflict.

Method.

The sample consisted of 620 randomly selected

students participating in the Healthy Teens Longitudinal Study. Participants attended schools in Northeast

Georgia, USA. Mean scores were plotted for the seven years, and analysis of variance was used to examine

whether student endorsement of goals and strategies differed by aggression trajectories.

Results.

Self-reported

student goals and strategies were stable over time. At Grade 6 and 12, significantly more students in the Low

Aggression trajectory endorsed positive goals and strategies to resolve peer conflict, and significantly more

students in the two more aggressive trajectories endorsed aggressive goals and strategies. Youth in the two

more aggressive trajectories did not differ in goals or strategies. Seeking help from a teacher did not vary by

aggression trajectory or grade level.

Conclusion.

Given the stability of goals and strategies, school should

implement programs early to enhance social-cognitive factors affecting students’ behavior in peer conflict

situations, and thus prevent violence and enhance a positive school climate.
Dissociable components of attention exhibit distinct neuronal signatures in primate visual cortex
Authors: Chandrasekaran Adithya Narayan , Vermani Ayesha , Gupta Priyanka , Steinmetz Nicholas , Moore Tirin , Sridharan Devarajan
Published: February 2024

Attention can be deployed in multiple forms and facilitates behavior by influencing perceptual sensitivity and choice bias. Attention is also associated with a myriad of changes in sensory neural activity. Yet, the relationship between the behavioral components of attention and the accompanying changes in neural activity remains largely unresolved. We examined this relationship by quantifying sensitivity and bias in monkeys performing a task that dissociated eye movement responses from the focus of covert attention. Unexpectedly, bias, not sensitivity, increased at the focus of covert attention, whereas sensitivity increased at the location of planned eye movements. Furthermore, neuronal activity within visual area V4 varied robustly with bias, but not sensitivity, at the focus of covert attention. In contrast, correlated variability between neuronal pairs was lowest at the location of planned eye movements, and varied with sensitivity, but not bias. Thus, dissociable behavioral components of attention exhibit distinct neuronal signatures within the visual cortex.