bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Healthy diet social media campaign among Indonesian college students
Authors: Adella Adella , Rukmini Elisabeth
Published: August 2021

Despite rise of self-perception towards eating balanced meals, obesity incidence remains high all over the world, reaching more than half billion people. It is worrisome since it leads to sedentary lifestyle that contributes to non-communicable diseases. Therefore, having adequate knowledge about healthy lifestyle, diet and eating habits from early age is crucial. Leveraging on the high usage of social media, educational intervention seems promising. In this study, we assess the impact of using social media campaigns through Instagram to raise knowledge and encourage behavioral changes. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed. Freshmen (n=144) were selected as respondents and divided to two groups through random sampling. Those in intervention group received various information via Instagram for four months. All respondents had to fill self-administered knowledge questionnaires and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) each month as evaluation. To evaluate the on-going campaign even more, we also collected qualitative data by interviewing respondents (n=14). Data were analysed using constant comparative method (CCM). By the end of campaign period, there was only positive increasing trend in knowledge. Instagram was perceived as a suitable campaign media despite needing improvements. Overall, Instagram educational intervention had only successfully raised awareness and knowledge, not students’ eating habits.
Knowledge, attitude and practices of the university students about COVID-19 during the Luzon lockdown in the Philippines
Authors: Santiago Jomell Miranda , Santos Angelo Reyes
Published: August 2021

The Philippines is one of the many countries around the world that imposed lockdowns to stop the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). During the lockdown period, the Department of Health carried out a massive information dissemination campaign about COVID-19. Thus, the researchers want to determine the knowledge, attitude and practices of the students about the COVID-19 during the Luzon lockdown. A descriptive research design and purposive sampling were used. A questionnaire was utilized to collect data composed of the profile, questions regarding their knowledge, attitude and practice towards COVID-19 and their source of knowledge. Permission to conduct and informed consent was obtained. Data were analyzed using various statistical tools. The majority of the respondents had well to very good knowledge of COVID-19 and their source of knowledge was mainly from television and the internet. They also had a very positive attitude and they practice the different ways to prevent COVID-19. The difference between their gender and family income to their knowledge about COVID-19 was significant. Therefore, an intensified campaign should be done to reach those individuals who have limited access to television and the internet and help them to have a positive attitude and correct practices towards COVID-19.
Implementation strategy of primary health care in Ovia communities
Authors: Daniel Osarenmwanta Aideyan , Akingbade Timothy A , Azman Mohamed Nor Azhari , Maay Jems K.R.
Published: August 2021

Primary health care is the essential health service provided at the grassroot level. Over the years the implementation of Primary Health Care (PHC) programmes in Edo state are bedeviled with associated challenges such as limited community participation, great communication gap that limit evaluation processes of PHC programme and slow pace collaboration among stakeholders. These challenges need to be averted through effective and people oriented strategies to ensure the implementation of primary health care. A descriptive research design with a population of the study comprised 1,024 primary health care stakeholders in Edo state. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 180 respondents for the study. The study found that intersectoral collaboration involving partnerships with community health agencies such as village health committees and ward health committees significantly influenced the implementation of PHC. Intersectoral collaboration, community mobilization strategy and community feedback mechanism are effective and efficient strategies for improved implementation of PHC programmes. The study recommended among others that National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA) should strengthen partnership with international health organizations such as WHO, UNICEF, GAVI, UNDP and boost confidence and trust of these international organizations.
Work readiness during COVID-19 among taxibike online drivers in Samarinda, Indonesia
Authors: Setyowati Dina Lusiana , Paramita Swandari , Ifroh Riza Hayati , Asrianti Tanti , Fitriani Efi , Rahman Wahnadita
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 caused a pandemic around the world, including in Indonesia. This greatly affected the informal business sector, such as online taxibike drivers. The success of this program to control the spread of COVID-19 is greatly influenced by knowledge, attitudes, and actions in the community. The purpose of this study was to identify behavioral factors during the pandemic. An online survey was conducted with 100 online taxibike drivers using a structured questionnaire and Google Forms. Data were analyzed using the Spearman rank test with CI of 95%. Although most online taxibike drivers have sufficient knowledge about COVID-19, some drivers had important misconceptions about COVID-19, namely that COVID-19 is not contagious, weak immune resistance may cause them to contract COVID-19, and it is highly unlikely that they will contract COVID-19 when leaving the house without wearing a mask, and believing that handwashing with soap and using hand sanitizer will not prevent COVID-19. To address these misconceptions, interventions should be targeted to online taxibike drivers to increase their health education and literacy regarding the urgency of preventing COVID-19. It is also important to consider incorporating both interpersonal approaches and conventional and digital-based groups when encouraging changes in their attitudes and practices towards COVID-19.
Interventions to improve vaccination coverage of children in hard-to-reach population: A systematic review
Authors: Pitaloka Cyntia Puspa , Handayani Samsriyaningsih
Published: August 2021

In the last decade, vaccination has reduced a quarter of child deaths worldwide. Vaccination coverage increased, but the coverage remains low in the hard-to-reach population. We searched articles from Pubmed MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Science Direct to systematically review interventions to improve children's vaccination coverage in hard-to-reach populations. The expected outcome was vaccination coverage, which mentioned Odds Ratio, mean difference, or difference-in-difference with a 95% CI or p-value. Out of 102 articles identified, five articles from four different countries met the inclusion criteria. Four of the five studies reported a positive impact in increasing vaccination coverage. Interventions that showed good effectiveness in increasing the coverage of childhood immunizations were the application of mHealth given to vaccinators, multiple interventions involving the community, modification of immunization schedules during outreach activities, and immunization screening cards. Despite the inconsistent finding, mHealth with SMS reminders was the most effective intervention to increase vaccination coverage and relatively low-cost. More research was needed in developing a strategic intervention to increase vaccination coverage of children in hard-to-reach populations.
Perceptions dynamics about antiretroviral treatment among HIV patients in Bali
Authors: Sawitri Anak Agung Sagung , Sutarsa I Nyoman , Merati Tuti Parwati , Bakta Made , Wirawan Dewa Nyoman
Published: August 2021

Perceptions of people living with HIV and AIDS (PLHIV) about antiretroviral treatment (ART) is crucial for improving adherence. This study aims to examine the dynamics of perceptions during the early phase of ART. A longitudinal study involving newly diagnosed PLHIV was conducted. Interviews were carried out at the time of HIV diagnosis and at three months after ART initiation. Data were analyzed by comparing proportion of good perception across the continuum of HIV diagnosis, ART initiation and threemonths follow-up, and were tested using Chi-square. From 170 PLHIV participated in the study, 81.76% had initiated ART and 73.4% remained on ART at three-months of follow-up. Several positive perception items were significantly decreased: ability to take ART at work and ability to continue treatment if experiencing side effects, effectiveness of ART, confidentiality, unwanted disclosure, and level of support from outreach workers. Ability to follow instruction from physician was significantly increased, and negative attitudes toward ART were decreased across the continuum. Adherence to ART is a continuous process, and is influenced by the dynamics perceptions among PLHIV. Understanding these dynamics is crucial to formulate strategies that can promote and maintain positive attitudes toward ART as well as living with HIV more broadly.
Examining child obesity risk level using fuzzy inference system
Authors: Sari Febrina , Desyanti Desyanti , Radillah Teuku , Nurjannah Siti , Julimar Julimar , Pakpahan Juwita Yanti
Published: August 2021

The doctor will determine the risk level of childhood obesity by using standard calculations, namely measuring the child's weight and height, and many other factors. Then the doctor will calculate the child's body mass index (BMI). The results of calculations made by the doctor will be compared with standard/normal values set by FAO/WHO, to obtain the level of risk of obesity in children. This study aims to analyze the risk level of obesity in children using the Sugeno method of Fuzzy Inference system, using the trapezoidal membership function and involving six input variables such as exercise habits, consumption of fast food, history of obesity of parents, and others. The application of the fuzzy inference system Sugeno method can help doctors to analyze the risk level of childhood obesity quickly and accurately with an accuracy rate of 85%. The results of the implementation of the Sugeno method of Fuzzy Inference system showed that out of 140 children who were the object of the study, 119 children received a diagnosis of the level of risk of obesity which was the same as the diagnosis made by a doctor.
Exploring the use of films/dramas in giving awareness towards mental illness in society
Authors: Ghazali Nor Mazlina , Aden Edris , Anuar Azzahrah , Yahya Fatahyah , Zulkifli Anis Natasha
Published: August 2021

This study was exploring the use of films/dramas in giving awareness towards mental illness among society. Objective of this study was to explore the use of films in giving awareness on mental illness to the community. The study used qualitative research design. There were 11 participants of this study which consisted of three stages of human development (adolescent, early and late adulthood). They also come from varies background such as different work setting, age, occupation as well as level of education. The varies background among participants were provided different answers of questions. The method of data collection was an interview with semi-structured questions. Analysis of data using Thematic Analysis. Findings showed few themes have been found from the interview such as personality of participants that lead them to watch this type of films/dramas, effect after they watched this type of films/dramas, perception of participants towards mental illness films/dramas, learning process and suggestion to improve this type of films/dramas in Malaysia. The implication of this study, participants gaining more awareness on mental illness after watching type of films/dramas. They also found this genre of films/dramas enable to educate them to be open with people who suffer from mental illness. In conclusion, future researcher can explore the effect of watching mental illness genre films/dramas towards self-development among society.
Levantamento de sintomas depressivos e ansiosos entre estudantes de medicina de uma universidade brasileira
Authors: Cardoso Yasmin de Souza , Lima Lucas Victor de , Miranda Lucas Rodrigues , Ferreira Sanmer Jhaffer Santos , Carvalho Adriana Assis
Published: August 2021

O curso de medicina tem sido apontado como fator de risco para o desenvolvimento de sintomas depressivos e ansiosos nos estudantes. O objetivo foi estimar a prevalência de sintomas depressivos e ansiosos em acadêmicos de medicina em uma universidade pública. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, realizado com estudantes de uma universidade pública. Foram utilizados questionário sociodemográfico, Inventário de Depressão de Beck e Inventário de Ansiedade de Beck. Participaram 33 estudantes com idade entre 20 e 25 anos de idade, maioria do sexo feminino, solteiros e que não moram com a família. A maioria participa de alguma atividade de lazer. A prevalência de sintomas depressivos foi de 27,3% e de ansiedade foi de 54,48%. Encontramos maior relação de sintomas de depressão e ansiedade no sexo feminino, nos que moram longe da família e usam a internet/redes sociais. Tocar instrumentos musicais, praticar atividade física, leitura extracurricular, ir ao cinema foram apontados como fatores de proteção. Esse estudo mostrou que sintomas de depressão e ansiedade são comuns nos estudantes de medicina e os fatores de proteção e de risco precisam ser considerados durante a graduação.
Avaliação populacional do conhecimento sobre atendimento extra-hospitalar da parada cardíaca
Authors: Nogueira Giovanna Atafini Ribeiro , Moretti Miguel Antonio , Etcheverria Isabela Corralo Ramos , Marina Thaina Altarejo , Souza Leticia Mota , Hoover Philip , Marques Jhonny Vaz , Ferreira João Fernando Monteiro , Chagas Antonio Carlos Palandri
Published: August 2021

Introdução: A morbimortalidade da parada cardiorrespiratória depende da eficácia do atendimento. O sucesso da ressuscitação aumenta se iniciada precocemente no local. Indivíduos desinformados e não capacitados podem prestar um atendimento inadequado aumentando os danos. Objetivo: avaliar se sexo, idade, escolaridade e profissão influenciam no conhecimento e nas atitudes do socorrista. Método: Pesquisa aplicada, com questionário do tipo aberto e fechado, quanti-qualitativo. Estudo transversal por amostra de conveniência, utilizada como reflexo de uma população, não probabilística. Resultado: Foram 319 questionários aplicados entre agosto e outubro de 2015. Homens 36%. Idade média 34,3+14,7 anos. Nível superior 55% e médio 40%. Homens e Mulheres dizem que sabem reconhecer um evento, mas os homens se sentem mais aptos (36% x 21,6% p=0,01), sabem o que fazer (51,2% x 38,2% p=0,02), pedem menos ajuda (27,9% x 40,4%) e checam mais sinais vitais (27,9% x 12,5%). Em relação à faixa etária aqueles entre 20 e 60 anos reconhecem menos eventos (40% x 24% p=0,02) e poucos sabiam como pedir ajuda corretamente. Pessoas com nível superior tinham maior capacidade de reconhecer uma parada (45%), mas isso não os diferenciou nos demais itens. Profissionais da área da saúde chamam menos por ajuda, e metade deles não sabe para qual número ligar. Conclusão: Homens, as pessoas mais velhas e as mais jovens estão mais bem preparados para atender uma parada, independente da escolaridade. E profissionais da área da saúde possuem um conhecimento pouco melhor que a população leiga.
Hiperidrose do sono associada à apneia obstrutiva do sono em paciente portadora de lúpus eritematoso sistêmico: relato de caso
Authors: Araújo Farley Carvalho , Pereira Fabiana Souza Máximo , Brandes Tainá Giovanna Batista
Published: August 2021

Trata-se de uma paciente de 81 anos encaminhada ao reumatologista em função de sudorese noturna intensa há 04 meses associada a despertares noturnos, assim como sono não restaurador, fadiga e sonolência excessiva diurna, hiporexia e perda ponderal importante (09 quilos no período referido) além de positividade do FAN. Em consulta, levando-se em conta as principais hipóteses diagnósticas de hiperidrose noturna e síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono, foram solicitados exames para exclusão de causas mais graves, como linfoma, tuberculose e feocromocitoma. Ademais, foi solicitada polissonografia que evidenciou aumento severo do índice de apneia-hipopneia às custas de eventos obstrutivos (IAH = 45,2 eventos/hora), índice de despertares aumentado (Índice de despertar = 27,9/hora) e dessaturação da oxi-hemoglobina associada aos eventos respiratórios com saturação mínima de 84% e presença de roncos, por conseguinte compatível com síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono de grau grave. Outrossim, faz-se importante ressaltar que durante consultas posteriores a paciente também foi identificada como portadora de Lúpus Eritematoso Sistêmico (LES). Correlaciona-se, portanto, a hiperidrose noturna, condição clínica caracterizada pela produção exacerbada e desregulada do suor que interfere na qualidade do sono, com a síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono (SAOS), responsável, quando não tratada, por um aumento da atividade simpática que afeta o sono e o despertar, em um ciclo retroalimentativo. A primeira condição, pouco discutida no meio médico, tem seu diagnóstico dependente da suspeita clínica e do reconhecimento de possíveis causas secundárias. A proposta de tratamento para a paciente foi a terapia com pressão positiva, além de medidas conservadoras. O tratamento para o Lúpus Eritematoso Sistêmico (LES) também foi instituído. Em dois meses, a paciente passou a apresentar controle do quadro lúpico e da hiperidrose noturna, assim como dos sintomas noturnos associados ao quadro de SAOS.
Health Care Delivery Interventions for Hypertension Management in Underserved Populations in the United States: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pasha Maarya , Brewer LaPrincess C. , Sennhauser Susie , Alsawas Mouaz , Murad M. Hassan
Published: August 2021

The high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in underserved populations is a major cause of health disparities in the United States and requires innovative health care delivery interventions. We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and comparative observational studies examining the effectiveness of contemporary systems change and quality improvement interventions aimed at improving blood pressure (BP) control published from 2010 to 2020. We included studies evaluating multicomponent practice improvement interventions conducted in the United States in community health centers. We identified 26 studies including 48 187 patients with hypertension with a high proportion of racial/ethnic minorities, low socioeconomic status, and a high burden of chronic illness. Multicomponent interventions led to an average reduction of 5 to 10 mm Hg in systolic BP. Four studies demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating pharmacists into community health centers for BP management and reduced cardiovascular disparities for at-risk populations. Five studies demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating community health workers into care workflows leading to reduction in BP and high patient satisfaction. Five studies used the electronic medical record as a tool for population management and showed only modest reduction in BP. One study demonstrated the effectiveness of incentivizing clinics with higher payments for uninsured and Medicaid patients meeting performance criteria. Very few studies evaluated treatment complications or medications side effects. Multicomponent quality improvement interventions instituted in community health centers are effective in lowering BP. Several components of the interventions were identified as being associated with higher efficacy.
Circulating Maternal sFLT1 (Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1) Is Sufficient to Impair Spiral Arterial Remodeling in a Preeclampsia Mouse Model
Authors: Vogtmann Rebekka , Heupel Jacqueline , Herse Florian , Matin Mahsa , Hagmann Henning , Bendix Ivo , Kräker Kristin , Dechend Ralf , Winterhager Elke , Kimmig Rainer , Köninger Angela , Gellhaus Alexandra
Published: August 2021

One driving factor for developing preeclampsia—a pregnancy disorder, often associated with poor spiral artery (SpA)-remodeling and fetal growth restriction—is the anti-angiogenic sFLT1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1), which is found to be highly upregulated in preeclampsia patients. The sFLT1-mediated endothelial dysfunction is a common theory for the manifestation of maternal preeclampsia symptoms. However, the influence of sFLT1 on SpA-remodeling and the link between placental and maternal preeclampsia symptoms is less understood. To dissect the hsFLT1 (human sFLT1) effects on maternal and/or fetoplacental physiology in preeclampsia, sFLT1-transgenic mice with systemic hsFLT1 overexpression from midgestation onwards were used. SpA-remodeling was analyzed on histological and molecular level in placental/mesometrial triangle tissues. Maternal kidney and aorta morphology was investigated, combined with blood pressure measurements via telemetry. hsFLT1 overexpression resulted in maternal hypertension, aortic wall thickening, and elastin breakdown. Furthermore, maternal kidneys showed glomerular endotheliosis, podocyte damage, and proteinuria. preeclampsia symptoms were combined with fetal growth restriction already at the end of the second trimester and SpA-remodeling was strongly impaired as shown by persisted vascular smooth muscle cells. This phenotype was associated with shallow trophoblast invasion, delayed presence of uterine natural killer cells, and altered lymphatic angiogenesis. Overall, this study showed that circulating maternal hsFLT1 is sufficient to induce typical maternal preeclampsia-like symptoms in mice and impair the SpA-remodeling independent from the fetoplacental compartment, revealing new insights into the interaction between the placental and maternal contribution of preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia Across Pregnancies and Associated Risk Factors: Findings From a High‐Risk US Birth Cohort
Authors: Ogunwole S. Michelle , Mwinnyaa George , Wang Xiaobin , Hong Xiumei , Henderson Janice , Bennett Wendy L.
Published: August 2021

Background

Preeclampsia increases women's risks for maternal morbidity and future cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to identify opportunities for prevention by examining the association between cardiometabolic risk factors and preeclampsia across 2 pregnancies among women in a high‐risk US birth cohort.

Methods and Results

Our sample included 618 women in the Boston Birth Cohort with index and subsequent pregnancy data collected using standard protocols. We conducted log‐binomial univariate regression models to examine the association between preeclampsia in the subsequent pregnancy (defined as incident or recurrent preeclampsia) and cardiometabolic risk factors (ie, obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational diabetes mellitus) diagnosed before and during the index pregnancy, and between index and subsequent pregnancies. At the subsequent pregnancy, 7% (36/540) had incident preeclampsia and 42% (33/78) had recurrent preeclampsia. Compared with women without obesity, women with obesity had greater risk of incident preeclampsia (unadjusted risk ratio [RR], 2.2 [95% CI, 1.1–4.5]) and recurrent preeclampsia (unadjusted RR, 3.1 [95% CI, 1.5–6.7]). Preindex pregnancy chronic hypertension and diabetes mellitus were associated with incident, but not recurrent, preeclampsia (hypertension unadjusted RR, 7.9 [95% CI, 4.1–15.3]; diabetes mellitus unadjusted RR, 5.2 [95% CI, 2.5–11.1]. Women with new interpregnancy hypertension versus those without had a higher risk of incident and recurrent preeclampsia (incident preeclampsia unadjusted RR, 6.1 [95% CI, 2.9–13]); recurrent preeclampsia unadjusted RR, 2.4 [95% CI, 1.5–3.9]).

Conclusions

In this diverse sample of high‐risk US women, we identified modifiable and treatable risk factors, including obesity and hypertension for the prevention of preeclampsia.
Differences in Perceived and Predicted Bleeding Risk in Older Adults With Atrial Fibrillation: The SAGE‐AF Study
Authors: Bamgbade Benita A. , McManus David D. , Helm Robert , Mehawej Jordy , Gurwitz Jerry H. , Mailhot Tanya , Abu Hawa O. , Goldberg Robert , Wang Ziyue , Tisminetzky Mayra , Pierre‐Louis Isabelle C. , Saczynski Jane S.
Published: August 2021

Background

Little research has evaluated patient bleeding risk perceptions in comparison with calculated bleeding risk among oral anticoagulant users with atrial fibrillation. Our objective was to investigate underestimation of bleeding risk and to describe the characteristics and patient‐reported outcomes associated with underestimation of bleeding risk.

Methods and Results

In the SAGE‐AF (Systematic Assessment of Geriatric Elements in Atrial Fibrillation) study, a prospective cohort study of patients ≥65 years with atrial fibrillation, a CHA2DS2‐VASc risk score ≥2 and who were on oral anticoagulant therapy, we compared patients’ self‐reported bleeding risk with their predicted bleeding risk from their HAS‐BLED score. Among the 754 participants (mean age 74.8 years, 48.3% women), 68.0% underestimated their bleeding risk. Participants who were Asian or Pacific Islander, Black, Native American or Alaskan Native, Mixed Race or Hispanic (non‐White) (adjusted OR [AOR], 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24–0.82) and women (AOR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.40–0.95) had significantly lower odds of underestimating their bleeding risk than respective comparison groups. Participants with a history of bleeding (AOR, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.73–5.44) and prior hypertension (AOR, 4.33; 95% CI, 2.43–7.72), stroke (AOR, 5.18; 95% CI, 1.87–14.40), or renal disease (AOR, 5.05; 95% CI, 2.98–8.57) had significantly higher odds of underestimating their bleeding risk.

Conclusions

We found that more than two‐thirds of patients with atrial fibrillation on oral anticoagulant therapy underestimated their bleeding risk and that participants with a history of bleeding and several comorbid conditions were more likely to underestimate their bleeding risk whereas non‐Whites and women were less likely to underestimate their bleeding risk. Clinicians should ensure that patients prescribed oral anticoagulant therapy have a thorough understanding of bleeding risk.
A reappraisal of Bufo levicristatus Boettger, 1885 (Anura: Bufonidae), a long forgotten toad from Paraguay
Authors: PEREYRA MARTÍN O. , MILTO KONSTANTIN D. , BRUSQUETTI FRANCISCO , KOLENC FRANCISCO , BALDO DIEGO
Published: August 2021

In this work, we show that Bufo levicristatus Boettger, 1885 is a senior synonym of Bufo scitulus Caramaschi & Niemeyer, 2003, and not a junior synonym of Bufo ornatus Spix, 1824, as previously considered. In addition, we present evidence that Bufo scitulus Caramaschi & Niemeyer, 2003 complies with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature requirements for a reversal of precedence over the name Bufo levicristatus Boettger, 1885, and so the name Bufo scitulus is to be maintained for this species.
Weather Factors Associated with Extremely Large Fires and Fire Growth Days
Authors: Potter Brian E. , McEvoy Daniel
Published: August 2021

“Megafires” are of scientific interest and concern for fire management, public safety planning, and smoke-related public health management. There is a need to predict them on time scales from days to decades. Understanding is limited, however, of the role of daily weather in determining their extreme size. This study examines differences in the daily weather during these and other smaller fires, and in the two sets of fires’ responses to daily weather and antecedent atmospheric dryness. Twenty fires of unusual size (over 36 400 ha), were each paired with a nearby large fire (10 100–30 300 ha). Antecedent dryness and daily near-surface weather were compared for each set of fires. Growth response to daily weather was also examined for differences between the two sets of fires. Antecedent dryness measured as the evaporative demand drought index was greater for most of the fires of unusual size than it was for smaller fires. There were small differences in daily weather, with those differences indicating weather less conducive to fire growth for the unusually large fires than the smaller fires. Growth response was similar for the two sets of fires when weather properties were between 40th and 60th percentiles for each fire pair, but the unusually large fires’ growth was observably greater than the smaller fires’ growth for weather properties between the 80th to 100th percentiles. Response differences were greatest for wind speed, and for the Fosberg fire weather index and variants of the hot-dry-windy index, which combine wind speed with atmospheric moisture.
Governance Egalitarianism in Jesus’ Teaching
Authors: Beed Clive , Beed Cara
Published: August 2021

Governance egalitarianism has been defined as a situation where all members of an organization have something approximating equal say in determining policy of the group. Nowadays, it is practiced mainly in worker cooperatives, and in some voluntary organizations, like amateur sports and recreation clubs. It has been alleged that Jesus encouraged governance egalitarianism within his movement, but this contention has been challenged. This paper revisits the matter, looks at earlier arguments, and examines scriptural material relevant to the issue. On the basis of reasssessing the arguments, and of Jesus’ alleged sayings and behavior as interpreted by Matthew, the conclusion is that Jesus did seek to mould a movement in which he expected his followers to practice governance egalitarianism among themselves. That people of different status coexisted within the Jesus movement does not tell against the conclusion. Nor do arguments that Jesus sought to foster this mode of governance in a patriarchical society undermine the judgment, although the role of women in the Jesus movement is not examined.
Bereaved Families Views on the Death of Loved Ones Due to COVID 19: An Integrative Review
Authors: Firouzkouhi Mohammadreza , Alimohammadi Nasrollah , Abdollahimohammad Abdolghani , Bagheri Gholamreza , Farzi Jebraeil
Published: August 2021

Families encounter some issues after the death of their loved one due to COVID-19. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the family’s views on the death of their loved one due to COVID-19. This integrative review was conducted from May to Jan 2021. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, CINHAL, Magiran, and SID databases. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The results were classified into two categories, including before and after death. The issues raised before the death of the loved ones include no visit and absence at death time, fear of being infected with the COVID-19, death anxiety, failure to perform religious rites at death, and psychological problems. The after-death issues were related to funeral, burial, rituals, prolonged grieving, maladaptation, loneliness, and repeated mourning. Therefore, health policymakers should provide support before and after the death of loved ones for families.
The knitting methods for seamless garments based on four-needle bed computerized flat machine
Authors: Lu Lisha , Jiang Gaoming , Wu Guangjun
Published: August 2021

Seamless garments reducing the cutting and sewing processes are created using seamless knitting technology. This type of garment, being less dependent on labor, is knitted as a whole and makes a great contribution to improving production efficiency. More importantly, seamless garments are more comfortable and natural compared with those styles produced by traditional technology. However, the techniques of seamless garments are huge and complex, making the pattern design process more difficult. In addition, the seamless knitting technology has great restrictions to the styles with rich shapes due to the limitation of the devices. Therefore, how to knit more complex styles using seamless knitting technology still faces great challenges. For these reasons, this study extensively investigated the knitting principle of seamless garments and proposed six knitting models for different kinds of garments. Then the transformation methods from 3D style to 2D pattern were explored respectively based on the knitting characteristics of each model. Finally, by package programming in the SDS-ONE APEX design system, the actual knitting for six types of garments was conducted on the computerized flat knitting machine. The results showed that different types of seamless garments have significant differences in the pattern design and the approaches proposed above can make different kinds of garments using seamless knitting technology.
Comprehensive Field Services for Severely Handicapped Blind Children
Authors: Bourgeault Stanley E. , Harley Randall K. , DuBose Rebecca F. , Venn John J.
Published: August 2021

The third article in a series describing the conceptualization, implementation, and results to date of the George Peabody College for Teachers’ Model Center for Severely Handicapped, Multi-Impaired Children with Visual Impairment as a Primary Handicapping Condition.
Pattern Recognition on the Forehead: An Electronic Scan System
Authors: Moricca Larry S. , Slocum Rex V.
Published: August 2021

Reports two attempted improvements over existing techniques for effecting the recognition of spatial patterns imparted by means of vibrating points to the skin of blind persons. The limitations of abdomen and fingertips as stimulation sites are discussed, and experimental evidence of the effectiveness of the forehead, which does not share these limitations, is reported. In addition, a novel electronic scan system is reported which effected pattern recognition as well as, or better than, existing systems, and which promises certain advantages over them.
The Health Planning Law: Implications for Rehabilitation
Authors: Duncan John L.
Published: August 2021

Describes the highlights of the National Health Planning and Resources Development Act and shows how professionals in the field can participate in local planning activities on health services for blind and severely visually impaired persons.
Sighted Children Learn about Blindness
Authors: Scheffers Wenda L.
Published: August 2021

In a unit of 20 lessons sighted children were taught about the long cane, guide dogs, daily living skills, eye physiology, causes of blindness, eye care, braille, and attitudes toward blindness. The children were also required to perform some activities under blindfolds. After completing the unit, the children revealed far greater knowledge about blindness and had more positive attitudes toward blind persons—valuable preliminaries for mainstreaming blind children.
Sonicguide: Its Use with Public School Blind Children
Authors: Newcomer James
Published: August 2021

Use of the Sonicguide as part of an orientation and mobility program helped an elementary school student to develop and reinforce mobility concepts and spatial awareness. Several high school students successfully used the Sonicguide as an object detector and environmental sensor. Crucial questions about using the Sonicguide with children, including logistical difficulties and selection of suitable students, are raised, and some tentative answers provided.
Mime: A Movement Program for the Visually Handicapped
Authors: Loeschke Maravene
Published: August 2021

Describes an experimental study with two groups of subjects to determine whether mime techniques are useful for teaching movement to the visually handicapped. Includes class and subject descriptions, evaluation methods developed, and detailed observations of selected subjects.
Sensory Integrative Training for Blind Adults
Authors: Baker-Nobles Linda
Published: August 2021

Sensory integrative training of two blind women over a period 45 minutes a day, four days a week, for five months, is described. Observational changes noted were increased orientation abilities, improved body awareness, decreased fear of movement, and improved balance and gait. One woman showed a noticeable improvement in mobility skills.
Assessment of Rehabilitation Students during Initial Contact with the Teacher
Authors: Raftary Alice
Published: August 2021

The first meeting of a student with his or her rehabilitation teacher can have an important effect on the outcome of the rehabilitation program. This article shows the rehabilitation teacher how to use activities of daily living skills as a means of evaluating the student.
Combining Specialties to Serve Low Functioning Visually/Physically Impaired Children
Authors: Cech Donna , Pitello Ardis
Published: August 2021

An exploration of the impact of combining a vision specialist's abilities with those of a physical therapist when working with low functioning, preschool, visually and physically impaired children. Individually prescribed programs are cited to demonstrate the utility of a multidisciplinary approach. The authors view this article as an exploratory starting point for educators for further program development serving low incidence students.
CCTVs: Choices and Considerations
Authors: Goodrich Gregory L. , Quillman Robert D.
Published: August 2021

The decision whether or not to purchase a CCTV can be a complex and difficult one, and the individual should realize that not to buy is as valid as to buy, in some cases. Decision should be based on the value of the CCTV system to the individual. The potential user should examine, carefully and critically, alternate optical aids and gather as much information as possible with professional help.

Be critical of the information you receive, especially if it is not consistent with your own experience. In the end the choice is up to the user; who must live with the choice.
The Use of Group Strategies with the Visually Impaired: A Review
Authors: Welsh Richard L.
Published: August 2021

Comprehensive review of almost all literature in past 25 years on group therapy with the visually impaired. Discusses uses of groups with different age groups, for adjustment and for relief of stress. Describes in detail several specific approaches to groups of the visually impaired and discusses some of the problems such as extreme diversity of groups, lack of means of measurement of change and identifies issues that need research.
Availability of Orientation and Mobility Services in Public Schools
Authors: Smith Tom E. C. , Dickerson Larry R. , Liska Jim S.
Published: August 2021

Public Law 94-142 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require that appropriate educational services be provided to all handicapped children. For some visually handicapped students, this includes orientation and mobility training. This study surveyed the 50 State Departments of Education on the status of orientation and mobility, services in the public schools. Findings revealed that, although some states have orientation and mobility services in public schools, a large gap exists between these services and services needed to fully meet the mandate.
Personal Achievement Skills for Individuals with Visual Impairments
Authors: Roessler Richard T.
Published: August 2021

Describes the Personal Achievement Skills training package that has been adapted for visually impaired persons. Presents evidence that such training can help visually impaired persons achieve higher self-esteem and attain self-determined goals, such as a more active social life, being better listeners, and making more friends.
Blindisms: Treatment by Punishment and Reward in Laboratory and Natural Settings
Authors: Blasch Bruce B.
Published: August 2021

Reports on study designed to test the effectiveness of using punishment (pre-recorded sound of chalk screeching on a blackboard) and positive reinforcement to reduce blindisms (stereotypic behaviors) in blind children. The data for six independent experiments indicated a marked decrease in the stereotypic behaviors. There was no evidence that a reduction in one kind of stereotypic behavior produced a corresponding increase in another kind (symptom substitution) and in fact other untreated behaviors also showed a decrease in four of the six experiments. The reduction of the stereotypic behaviors also generalized to other classrooms and this reduction was maintained over a ten day period without further treatment.
Narrowing the Communication Gap
Authors: Fletcher Janet F.
Published: August 2021

Communication between Canadian and United States researchers into the needs of blind children has been poor. This article makes a step towards remedying this situation by outlining some of the research with blind persons being carried out in Ontario.
A Matter of Adjustment: A Personal Reaction to Visual Loss
Authors: Perle Ted
Published: August 2021

Describes a young man's personal experiences with a sequence of visual losses, the problems these losses caused, and his solutions for or compromises with them.
Toward Computer Literacy for Visually Impaired Students
Authors: Ryan Samuel G. , Bedi Dina N.
Published: August 2021

Reports an innovative approach to developing computer literacy among visually impaired students that was presented in two four-week workshops in computer programming for visually impaired students, held at Baruch College, New York. The experiences of the workshops are analyzed, and guidelines for the training of visually impaired people in computer related fields by educational and business institutions are discussed.
Massage Therapy: Another Avenue to Employment for the Blind
Authors: Placeway Paul V.
Published: August 2021

Describes a program in massage therapy given at the Michigan School for the Blind. Students are taught the necessary skills and also, since they will often be self-employed even though on a salary plus commission basis, how to run a small business. All students completing the course over the past two years found placements.
Childhood Visual Impairment: Perspectives on Research Design and Methodology
Authors: Warren David H.
Published: August 2021

Research methodology is discussed in the context of the nature of the knowledge that is needed about visually impaired children. Traditional “average-oriented” research designs are criticized, as are designs which compare visually impaired and sighted subjects. Emphasis is instead placed on multivariate designs, oriented to individual differences. A “hierarchical” research model is proposed for future research, involving integration of etiological, evaluative, and functional levels. Finally, the argument is made for the need for an intensive longitudinal developmental study of visually impaired children.
Job Seeking Skills Program for the Blind
Authors: Dickson Mary B.
Published: August 2021

Although many blind people are competent workers, they have never been taught how to find a job commensurate with their capabilities. A Job Seeking Skills Program which emphasizes active client participation is described. Clients learn to accurately articulate their skills, a talent few job seekers possess. Program and material development ideas are presented.
Listening: A Teachable Skill for Visually Impaired Persons
Authors: Bischoff Robert W.
Published: August 2021

Reviews the literature on listening and describes ways of helping visually impaired students to improve their listening skills. Discusses advantages of compressed speech.
Tactual Discrimination of Household Objects
Authors: Simpkins Katherine E.
Published: August 2021

The young child's concept of space was explored through tactual discrimination of common household objects. The results were analyzed in terms of degree of vision, amount of previous schooling, and sex for the three variables of type of identification required, rooms of the home represented, and degree of familiarity displayed. Results indicated no differences on the basis of vision, schooling, or sex. Type of identification and room categories were both found to differ significantly when tactual discrimination of objects was required. It was suggested that further study of this area might provide an instrument for assessing the young child's school readiness.
A School-Community Agency Project for Visually Handicapped Children
Authors: Kolk Charles J. Vander
Published: August 2021

Describes a model project providing assessment and supportive services for “mainstreamed” visually handicapped children. The Albany Association of the Blind contributed professional staff to work in a five-county area for the purpose of educating parents and school staff concerning the needs of children. The goals, team concept, assessment, service, workshops, and evaluation of the project are covered.
Factors Affecting Traceability of Lines for Tactile Graphics
Authors: Bentzen Billie Louise , Peck Alec F.
Published: August 2021

To facilitate appropriate line choice for tactile graphic displays, 42 visually impaired subjects traced four types of tactile lines in a simple display (without intersections), and in a complex display (having intersections). The lines were single smooth, double smooth (1/4 in. [. 635 cm] spacing), single rough, and double rough. Measures were taken of time to complete the task, “behaviors” other than the continuous tracing of a line, and “restarts,” in which subjects required assistance to complete the task. The results indicate which line types may be more readily traced in displays with and without intersections.
Tutor Tapes
Authors: McCulloch Janet
Published: August 2021

Describes an itinerant rehabilitation teacher's use of cassette tapes to supplement lessons scheduled in the home. Such tapes encourage the student to practice between visits. The Tutor Tape is usually prepared after each lesson to permit specific problems the student encountered during the lesson to be handled.
A Primary Reading Program for Beginning Braille Readers
Authors: Caton Hilda
Published: August 2021

Describes the procedures used in planning and writing a primary reading program specifically for students who will use braille as their reading medium. Discussion centers on the selection of vocabulary and a teaching method appropriate for such a program. Gives details of research findings and the use of these findings in presenting the vocabulary to students.
Clothing Selection and the Visually Impaired Consumer
Authors: Macias Polly , Rucker Margaret
Published: August 2021

A study to gain an understanding of the decision-making process employed by blind and visually impaired consumers in clothing selection and of the problems these consumers face in the retail marketplace revealed that general concerns of respondents included attitudes of salespersons, accessibility of stores, need to obtain more fashion information, and need for education in the areas of clothing selection and construction.
A New Strategy for Providing Large Print Curriculum Materials to Visually Impaired Students
Authors: Burd Larry , Bender Betty
Published: August 2021

A monthly section highlighting the impact of technological development on consumers and the blindness/visual impairment field. We need your support. Please send news, reviews, and descriptions of new hardware, software, interfacing ideas, prototypes, training programs, job opportunities, volunteer usage, user evaluations, educational opportunities, exhibits—in short, anything and everything—to the Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness, 15 W. 16th St., New York, NY 10011. In addition, we will attempt to direct reader queries to the appropriate experts, and publish questions and answers of general interest. Ideas and suggestions are welcomed.