bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Neuroprotective Effects of Sugammadex Following a Head Trauma in an Experimental Study
Authors: Mucuoglu Ali Osman , Mucuoglu Ceren Aygun , Kizmazoglu Ceren , Ersoy Nevin , Micili Serap Cilaker , Karabay Nuri , Hanci Volkan , Kalemci Orhan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractTo compare the efficacy of mannitol, the first choice of treatment in daily clinical practice for head trauma, and sugammadex, a frequently used neuroanesthesia in recent years. A total of 35 male rats were randomly selected and were divided into 5 groups, each comprising 7 rats. The groups were divided into Group I, sham (n = 7); Group II, control (head trauma, n = 7); Group III, treated with mannitol (head trauma, mannitol 20% 1 g/kg, n = 7); Group IV, treated with sugammadex (head trauma, sugammadex 100 mg/ kg, n = 7); and Group V, treated with mannitol and sugammadex (head trauma, mannitol 20% 1 g/kg and sugammadex 100 mg/kg, n = 7). After the sacrification, histological examination and immu-nohistochemical staining were performed in the brain of all subjects. Mann-Whitney U test was used to evaluate the significance between neuronal density, neuronal nuclei, and activated caspase-3 immunohistochemistry results measured from the prefrontal cortex. Neuronal density showing neuronal viability was observed to significantly increase in Group III compared to Group IV. However, neuronal nuclei immunohistochemistry showing apoptotic neurons also significantly increased. The present study has shown that sugammadex, an agent reversing the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents, has neuroprotective effects and is as effective as mannitol.
A meta‐analytic review of adaptive functioning in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, and the effect of IQ, executive functioning, and age
Authors: Kautz‐Turnbull Carson , Petrenko Christie L. M. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIntroductionFetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are highly prevalent developmental disabilities associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. In addition to varied strengths and unique talents, people with FASD experience significant challenges, including in adaptive functioning. Adaptive functioning refers to skills related to everyday life such as communication, practical skills, and social skills. For the current review, we aimed to understand how adaptive functioning in FASD compares to that of alcohol nonexposed individuals and those with attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, we investigated how this relationship may change based on IQ, executive functioning, and age.MethodThe current review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they measured adaptive functioning and included an FASD group and at least one eligible comparison group. Articles available in May 2021 in PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and ProQuest Dissertations were searched. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression and three‐level random effects models were computed for all domains of adaptive functioning. Possible moderation by IQ, executive functioning, and age were investigated when heterogeneity analyses were significant. Apost hocmoderation analysis of recruitment method was also completed.ResultsThirty studies were included. Individuals with FASD had significantly lower adaptive functioning than other groups, with effect sizes ranging from 1.04 to 1.35 compared to alcohol nonexposed groups and from 0.30 to 0.43 compared to ADHD groups. No significant moderating effects were found for IQ or age; executive functioning significantly moderated communication skills in FASD compared to the alcohol nonexposed group. Recruitment method significantly affected this relationship, with larger effect sizes on average found for clinically identified samples than at‐risk or population samples.ConclusionsIndividuals with FASD have impairments in adaptive functioning relative to alcohol nonexposed and ADHD groups, regardless of IQ, executive functioning, or age. Limitations of the review include small sample sizes in some comparisons and a limited age range.
How do people support each other in emergencies? A qualitative exploration of altruistic and prosocial behaviours during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tekin Selin , Sager Monica , Bushey Audrey , Deng Yawen , Uluğ Özden Melis 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe Ball State University Center for Peace and Conflict Studies in the United States has compiled altruistic stories from different countries such as India, Australia, the United States, and England since the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We examined those stories to understand (1) who receives the most support, (2) what type of support is provided, (3) who those supporters are, and (4) why people support each other during the pandemic. Conducting a qualitative content analysis of 104 altruistic stories, we first identified that (a) older individuals , (b) people with sensitive health conditions, and disabilities, (c) frontline workers, and (d) working class and marginalized communities received the primary support. Second, we identified three types of support: (a) material, (b) social/emotional, and (c) psychological. Third, we found that support was coming from (a) different organizations, (b) advantaged groups, and (c) volunteers. Last, (a) sharing a community/humanity identity, (b) allyship, and (c) showing gratitude were the reasons behind altruistic and prosocial behavior. Our findings contribute to the literature by providing some possible reasons and ways that allies have supported disadvantaged communities via sharing the available resources and how showing gratitude can be a reason for altruism and prosocial behavior in a pandemic.
Effect of volatile fatty acids on adipocyte differentiation in bovine dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells in vitro
Authors: Oki Yoshinao , Hagiwara Reiko , Matsumaru Takashi , Kano Koichiro 
Published: October 2021

AbstractHere, we established dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cells from mature bovine adipocytes and then examined the effects of volatile fatty acids on the differentiation of these DFAT cells into adipocytes in vitro. When mature adipocytes were isolated from bovine adipose tissue and cultured using the ceiling culture method, they were dedifferentiated into fibroblast‐like cells without lipid droplets. These fibroblast‐like cells, termed bovine DFAT (b‐DFAT) cells, actively proliferated. After adipogenic induction, increased expression of adipocyte‐specific genes occurred in b‐DFAT cells and they redifferentiated into adipocytes with an accumulation of lipid droplets in their cytoplasm. The effects of volatile fatty acids on adipocyte differentiation in b‐DFAT cells were also examined. Specifically, acetate, butyrate, and propionate added to adipogenic induction medium significantly enhanced the adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells compared with that observed in control cells; the addition of 10−3 mol of acetate enhanced adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells to the greatest extent. These results suggest that b‐DFAT cells derived from bovine mature adipocytes are appropriate for the study of bovine adipocyte differentiation and that the optimum concentration treatment of acetate, a major energy source for ruminants, promotes adipogenesis of b‐DFAT cells in vitro.
Acceptability and facilitators of and barriers to point‐of‐care HIV testing in a homeless‐focused service in Gloucestershire: a qualitative evaluation
Authors: Corker Elizabeth , Lorencatto Fabiana , Anderson Niall , Gobin Maya , Scott Sarah , Michie Susan , Angel Georgina 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectivesLate HIV diagnosis increases the risks of onward transmission, morbidity and mortality. Rapid point‐of‐care testing (POCT) reaches people who have never been tested and people living with HIV who are undiagnosed. This study explored the acceptability and feasibility of HIV POCT from the perspectives of service providers and users.MethodsA pilot study introduced HIV POCT to one service in Gloucestershire, England. Eleven semi‐structured interviews with service users and a focus group with three service providers were conducted. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability and the Theoretical Domains Framework were used to design the topic guide and analysis.ResultsAcceptability of HIV POCT was high. Seven facilitators were identified (e.g. understanding the test purpose and process), alongside two potential barriers, one relevant to service providers and users (anxiety) and the other to service users (stigma).ConclusionsTo maximize the benefits of implementation of HIV POCT, health care providers require appropriate training and supervision to offer and administer POCT.
Relationship between serum lipopolysaccharide binding protein levels, disease activity, and clinical characteristics in Paraguayan patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Losanto Jhonatan , Langjahr Patricia , Barrios Graciela , Paats Astrid , Acosta de Hetter María E , de Guillén Ivalena , Duarte Margarita , Acosta-Colman Isabel , Cervera Ricard 
Published: October 2021

Introduction Systemic exposure to bacterial components like lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is among the non-genetic factors that could be involved in the onset or progression of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) participates in the recognition of LPS and in the inflammatory response. Here, we investigated LBP in SLE patients and its relationship with disease activity and SLE phenotypes. Methods Eighty-one adult patients with SLE from IMID-PY biobank (Paraguay) were included in the study. The clinical and laboratory variables were used to determine SLE activity. LBP levels were determined by ELISA in SLE patients and age- and sex-matched population-based controls. Results Patients with SLE have lower levels of circulating LBP compared to healthy controls ( p = 0.0007). No significant correlation was found between serum LBP levels and disease activity. A significant difference was observed in LBP levels with regard to the presence of arthritis ( p = 0.026). No other relation was found with clinical parameters. Conclusions We found low levels of LBP in SLE patients compared to the control group. No correlation was detected between LBP levels and disease activity. It would be interesting for future studies to evaluate the impact of low levels of LBP on lupus immunopathogenesis.
Audit of acute psychiatric presentations during New Zealand’s first COVID-19 national lockdown
Authors: Ng Lillian , Narayanan Nishanth , Diamond Danielle , Pitigala Niru 
Published: October 2021

Objective: In this study, we aimed to identify service user demographic and clinical characteristics of an acute mental health service in South Auckland during the first New Zealand coronavirus-related lockdown. Method: We conducted a clinical audit of a sample of service users presenting to a district health board's acute adult mental health service during New Zealand’s level-4 lockdown in 2020 and made comparisons to a sample from 2019. We identified demographic factors, living situation, mode of referral, mode of assessment, diagnosis, substance use, risks, stressors, use of mental health act legislation and follow-up. Results: During the first level-4 lockdown fewer Ma¯ori were assessed, police referrals increased, specific stressors related to confinement were identified and there was an increase in risks relating to self-harm and harm to others. Conclusion: Service users had unique stressors and changing patterns of presentation during the level-4 New Zealand lockdown. In response to the changing needs of service users during a pandemic, we recommend optimising telehealth, enhancing connections with other essential services, development of digital interventions and care for frontline staff.
Assessment of knowledge and compliance to evidence-based guidelines for VAP prevention among ICU nurses in Tanzania
Authors: Bankanie Vicent , Outwater Anne H. , Wan Li , Yinglan Li 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Background
Implementation of evidence-based guidelines (EBGs) related to VAP is an effective measure for the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). While low knowledge regarding the EBGs related to VAP prevention among ICU nurses is still a major concern among nurses in ICUs globally, the situation in Tanzania is scarcely known. This study aimed to assess the ICU nurses’ knowledge, compliance, and barriers toward evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of VAP in Tanzania.

Methods
A cross-sectional study, involving ICU nurses of major hospitals in Tanzania, was conducted. A structured questionnaire was administered among 116 ICU nurses. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and the independent sample t-test.

Results
The mean knowledge score was 3.86(SD = 1.56), based on ten questions (equivalent to 38.6%). Nurses with a degree or higher level of nursing education performed significantly better than the nurses with a diploma or lower level of nursing education (p = 0.004). The mean self-reported compliance score for EBGs for the prevention of VAP was 15.20 (SD = 0.93) which is equivalent to 60.8% based on 25 questions. The main barriers to the implementation of EBGs for VAP prevention were lack of skills (96.6%), lack of adequate staff (95.5%), and lack of knowledge (79.3%).

Conclusion
Considering the severity and impact of VAP, and the higher risks of HAIs in resource-limited countries like Tanzania, the lower level of knowledge and compliance implies the need for ongoing educational interventions and evaluation of the implementation of the EBGs for VAP prevention by considering the local context.
TEACHING HOW TO USE VERBS IN THE PASSIVE VOICE: FROM THE EXPERIENCE OF TEACHING ENGLISH IN A MEDICAL COLLEGE
Authors: Larionova Tatiana 
Published: October 2021

Teaching English grammar involves mastering the topic «The Passive Voice». The article has an educational character; it deals with the rules of use verbs in the passive voice. Considerable attention is paid to studying the grammatical material aimed at a) deepening college students' knowledge of the subject, and b) at forming an idea of this grammatical topic for those who have not studied English before.
The exercises for using the passive voice, given in the article, are designed to practice the material and consolidate knowledge of the topic. These exercises will help you check your knowledge, find weak points in your preparation and correct them in time.
The article can be useful to students and teachers of colleges, universities, as well as a wide range of people studying English
Polish ‘sugar fee’ in the light of global experience with sugar sweetened beverages taxation
Authors: Mazurek-Chwiejczak Małgorzata 
Published: October 2021

Motivation: Obesity is one of the gravest public health challenges facing the world today. Out of different policy action undertaken by counties to counteract these threats, taxes imposed on sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) has gaining growing popularity. They are currently imposed on 47 countries worldwide. The Polish ‘sugar fee’ came into force on January 1, 2021.
Aim: The aim of the article is to synthesize the global experience with sugar-sweetened beverages taxation, to assess on that basis the construction of Polish ‘sugar fee’ and to identify key opportunities and threats connected with its implementation.
Results: Introduction of ‘sugar fee’ in Poland is consistent with the latest global trends in taxation. Its formula gives an opportunity to stimulate consumers to displace SSBs by other healthier beverages and to incentivize drink manufacturers to reformulate their products and change their marketing strategies. There is growing that evidence ‘sugar taxes’ can be effective tools to achieve public health goals, however its effect must be strengthen by multifaceted instruments (e.g. broad information action). The fiscal potential of ‘sugar fee’ is limited, if we assume that its main purpose is to stimulate healthier consumption patterns.
Why convulsions and unconsciousness occur in non-epileptic seizures: a neuropsychological perspective
Authors: Fernando Shaminda 
Published: October 2021

Background: Non-epileptic seizures (NES) fall under the category of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Patients are often misdiagnosed with epilepsy because convulsions and unconsciousness experienced in NES mirror symptoms of epileptic tonic-clonic seizures. Our current understanding is that these physiological symptoms of NES are caused purely by psychological distress. There is a lack of research that has explored the possible neuropsychological causes that trigger and maintain convulsions and unconsciousness. Aims: This article proposes a neuropsychological explanation of how convulsions and unconsciousness occur and maintain in patients with NES. Methods: Analysis of current research literature into NES is used to generate a neuropsychological perspective into the causes of NES, focusing on symptoms of convulsions and unconsciousness. Conclusions: This article argues the need for more neuropsychological research to be conducted into NES which can contribute to improving our understanding and treatment of NES.
Progress and problems in literacy programmes in Central Nigeria
Authors: Kato Abiel Barau 
Published: October 2021

Central Nigeria is a region of great linguistic diversity where there were no pre-colonial orthographies in use. The expansion of population and modern education has created a strong demand for local literacy programmes for the Plateau languages of Central Nigeria. For people to be able to develop themselves intellectually, it is important that they have a system of writing that is truly their own. Initially, demand for literacy has been in relation to programmes for Bible translation, and this is largely where funding is sought. However, these programmes are frustratingly long-term and some have been quite ineffective due to poor (or no) initial planning and ill-designed orthographies.
However, in the decade since 2010, demand is increasingly coming from non-denominational organisations whose concern is cultural maintenance, and thus the use of vernacular languages in education. This paper examines the progress achieved and problems faced by some of the Plateau languages in the area of literacy development with a more detailed case study of the Mada Literacy Programme, as well as offering some practical solutions to assist the spread of literacy.
Assessment of Ocular Neuropathic Pain Following Vitreoretinal Surgery using 23-gauge Sclerotomy
Authors: niktinat hanie , Yousefshahi Fardin , Latifi Golshan , Fadakar Kaveh , Kalantaritarari Farid , Fooladi Marjan Imani , Goudarzi Mehrdad , Ebrahimiadib Nazanin 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the presence of persistent ocular pain after 23-gauge pars plana vitreoretinal surgeryMethod: This is a prospective study including patients who underwent 23-gauge vitrectomy or silicone removal with local or general anesthesia. We evaluated the symptoms of ocular neuropathic pain before and two months after surgery using the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) questionnaire, and the impact of reported ocular symptoms on quality of life. Correlation between ocular pain and factors such as patient demographics and underlying conditions were also assessed.Result: Seventy-five patients with a mean age of 58.93 ± 12.05 years were evaluated. Forty-four (58.7%) were males. Sixty-seven (89.3%) patients underwent vitrectomy and eight had silicone removal surgery, all using 23-gauge instruments. there was an increasing trend in eye pain scores at two months after surgery which did not reach a statistical significance. However, the analgesic consumption increased from 4% before surgery to 17.3% two months after surgery. Patients who reported increased analgesic usage two months after surgery, scored worse in items of the quality-of-life questionnaire. In addition, patients who reported ocular and facial pain and photophobia before surgery had higher chances of analgesic consumption after surgery (p-value: 0.03, 0.003, and 0.001, respectively). Those who reported migraine headaches had higher chances of reporting eye symptoms, postoperatively (p-value: 0.041). Conclusion: Surgeries involving 23-gauge incisions may not induce ocular neuropathic pain. However, increased use of analgesics after surgery was observed.
Analytical Analysis of Nonlinear Internal Resonance Bandgap of Pendulum Type Metamaterial
Authors: GUO SHAOJIE , Bai Changqing , Zhang Hongyan , Zhang Yahong 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
In this paper, a pendulum type metamaterial (PTM) is designed with a pendulum bob hinged at the primary mass. The nonlinear dynamic model of PTM unit cell is presented with the aid of the Bloch theorem. The analytical formula of dispersion equation is deduced from the nonlinear model using the harmonic balance method. The obtained bandgap of the innovative metamaterial is in good agreement with the numerical result, thus validating the presented model. The nonlinear frequency band structure of PTM is investigated and compared with that obtained from linearized PTM model. It is found that the local resonant bandgap is tunable, and the nonlinear geometric influence of pendulum on PTM bandwidth is significant. The effects of 1:1, 1:1/2 and 1:1/3 internal resonance on the dispersion characteristics are analyzed with large swinging angle. The upper boundaries of the frequency bandgap under 1:1/2 and 1:1/3 internal resonance rise nonlinearly with the characteristic frequency of the secondary system to higher than those under linear and 1:1 internal resonance conditions. The mass coefficient gradually increases the width of PTM bandgap and PTM can possess a broader bandgap with optimized parameters.
The Prediction of Muscle Strength, Physiological Indexes, Balance, and Walking Ability on Risk of Fall for Prefrail Older People
Authors: Lee Yan-Cheng , Chang Shu-Fang , Kao Ching-Yun 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Aim: To explore the relationship of older adults’ demographic information, physiological indices, and stages of frailty with their risks of falling. Methods: In the cross-sectional study, a total of 221 older adults were surveyed. Results: Results were observed in terms of the participants’ physical performance, with significant differences being observed in the correlations of left-hand grip strength, (t = 5.05, p<.000), right-hand grip strength (t = 6.03, p<.000), and total grip strength (t = 5.70, p<.000), time up and go test (t = -6.25, p<.000), and 30-sec chair stand test (t = 7.19, p<.000) with the risks of falling. The stages of frailty (X2 = 9.64, p<.002) were confirmed to be significantly associated with risks of falling. According to the logistic regression analysis results, long-term medication (OR = 0.12, 95%CI = 0.02-0.62, p < .01) and right-hand grip strength (OR = 0.86, 95%CI = 0.76-0.97, p < .01) are the main predictors of older adults’ risks of falling. Conclusions: Older females with low education, history of falls, weaker grip strengths; taking longer to finish the TUG test; and standing fewer times during the 30-second chair stand test were at risk of fall. In prediction, older people using long-term medication were at lower risk of falling, and the greater the hand grip strength was, the lower the fall risk was. According to the research results, nursing personnel must develop care programs and improving older adults’ risk of fall.