High School World Language Teacher Perspectives on Computer-Mediated Communication Applications

Computer-mediated communication (CMC) offers opportunities to assist world language students to become global communicators in a digital society. However, perceptions of high school world language (HSWL) teachers on the suitability of these applications are not known. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore and document the professional perspectives of HSWL teachers who have taught over 10 years, to learn the benefits and obstacles that they must consider in teaching communicative language skills with CMC. The research questions explored possible reasons that would motivate or dissuade from teaching with these applications. The technology acceptance model extension (TAM2) provided the conceptual framework for this study because it elucidates the cognitive and social processes that affect teacher decisions when reviewing a technology to support their instruction. The collected data included 6 in-depth interviews, field observations, and document reviews. The data analysis began with a precoding based on TAM2, and coding to identify emergent themes such as student immaturity and content-specific professional development. In the findings, the teachers perceived CMC as unsuitable due to the digital divide and the focus on grammatical competence. However, the teachers noted the possible benefits of content-specific professional development. This study contributes to positive social change by providing insight into the current role of computer technology in HSWL instruction and suggestions for how to encourage teachers to adopt innovative uses of digital technology in their CLT practices

Studies of core-shell nanoGUMBOS and liposomal ionogels

The work presented in this dissertation is a description of novel core-shell nanomaterials derived from a group of uniform materials based on organic salts (GUMBOS) and the synthesis and characterizations of novel liposomal ionogels (LIGs). These GUMBOS are an extension of ionic liquids (ILs) which are organic salts with melting points between 25 °C and 100 °C. Ionic liquids have high thermal stability, low vapor pressure, and tunable physiochemical and functional properties. All of the properties of ILs are controlled by the chosen cation and anion pair. Similarly to ILs, GUMBOS possess the same qualities; however, they have melting points up to 250 °C. The first section is a discussion of core-shell nanomaterials composed of GUMBOS and gold. Chapter 3 is a description of the synthesis of thiol-functionalized GUMBOS and their corresponding nanoparticles (nanoGUMBOS). NanoGUMBOS were prepared using non-templated and templated methods. Non-templated nanoparticles were obtained through ionic self-assembly using a reprecipiation procedure. A reverse micellar method was utilized in the preparation of templated nanoGUMBOS. NanoGUMBOS were used as core components for the core-gold shell nanoparticles. The optical and morphological properties of nanoGUMBOS were monitored throughout the gold-coating process. Although gold-coated nanoGUMBOS have potential uses in biomedical applications, they were investigated as organic solvent sensors. In chapter 4, 1D core-shell nanoGUMBOS were prepared using a porous anodic alumina template. The corresponding optical and morphological characteristics of the nanorods were also determined along with the gold-coating procedure. With interest in electrochemical applications, cyclic voltammetry measurements were performed to determine the electronic properties of bulk GUMBOS. The second section is a description of a new type of ionogel that utilizes liposomes as the gelation matrix which we have named liposomal ionogels (LIGs). The ionogels developed in this dissertation are composed of a biocompatible IL which is prepared from choline and the amino acid proline along with dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) phospholipids. These LIGs offer two tunable components, phospholipids and ILs, and have potential as topical drug delivery tools

Enhance Learning in a Virtual Professional Environment via 3D Cases

The purpose of this research is toinvestigate the affordances and constraints ofdeveloping 3D teaching vignettes for effectivecase-based learning. It is built on the paradigm ofcase-based learning, which enhances higher-orderthinking abilities. Sparse research explores bothstudents’ engagement and learning outcomes viathree-dimensional (3D) teaching vignettes or 3D cases.In this study, a quasi-experimental study confirmsthe authors’ earlier finding that learnersoverwhelmingly prefer 3D to text-based case studies.A paired samples t-test shows students demonstratesignificant cognitive gains when studying a newdomain subject via a 3D case study. In this paper,the authors describe a design-based research processof developing 3D case studies that capitalizes theaffordances of 3D technologies. An in-depthdiscussion of important issues such as limitations andlessons learned is also included to explore thepragmatics of using 3D technologies to promotelearning

Development and Application of a Functional Human Esophageal Mucosa Explant Platform to Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

There is an increasing prevalence of esophageal diseases but intact human tissue platforms to study esophageal function, disease mechanisms, and the interactions between cell types in situ are lacking. To address this, we utilized full thickness human donor esophagi to create and validate the ex vivo function of mucosa and smooth muscle (n = 25). Explanted tissue was tested for contractile responses to carbachol and histamine. We then treated ex vivo human esophageal mucosa with a cytokine cocktail to closely mimic the Th2 and inflammatory milieu of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and assessed alterations in smooth muscle and extracellular matrix function and stiffening. We found that full thickness human esophagus as well as the individual layers of circular and longitudinal muscularis propria developed tension in response to carbachol ex vivo and that mucosa demonstrated squamous cell differentiation. Treatment of mucosa with Th2 and fibrotic cytokines recapitulated the majority of the clinical Eosinophilic Esophagitis Diagnostic Profile (EDP) on fluidic transcriptional microarray. Transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGFβ1) increased gene expression of fibronectin, smooth muscle actin, and phospholamban (p < 0.001). The EoE cocktail also increased stiffness and decreased mucosal compliance, akin to the functional alterations in EoE (p = 0.001). This work establishes a new, transcriptionally intact and physiologically functional human platform to model esophageal tissue responses in EoE

Atlanta Youth Count 2018 Community Report: The Prevalence of Sex and Labor Trafficking Among Homeless Youth in Metro Atlanta

The 2018 Atlanta Youth Count (AYC18) was a follow-up study to the 2015 Atlanta Youth Count and Needs Assessment (AYCNA), expanded in 2018 to specifically address sex and labor trafficking among youth experiencing homelessness in metro Atlanta. The goals of this project were to: 1) provide metro Atlanta service providers, policymakers, and youth advocates with practical information on the size, nature, and needs of the homeless, precariously housed, and runaway youth in our community who are involved in various forms of sex and labor trafficking; 2) collect information that can be used to develop and refine policies, programs, and interventions to help these youth in our community; and 3) encourage a community-wide dialogue about the needs and social determinants of youth homelessness and human trafficking. This study was funded by the National Institute of Justice and was conducted in partnership with local service providers, advocates, researchers, and students. This document is the official public Human Trafficking Report and provides an overview of the study methodology and key findings, including the research team’s official estimates of the prevalence of trafficking among homeless youth in metro Atlanta, as well as a description of key characteristics of the population derived from the survey data collected. Members of the research team are continuing to analyze and use the data to improve the public’s and policymakers’ understanding of youth homelessness and trafficking and to guide community - based efforts to improve services for these young people

Sun exposure, sun-related symptoms, and sun protection practices in an African informal traditional medicines market

Informal workers in African market trade have little formal protection against sun exposure. We aimed to examine sun exposure, sun-related symptoms, and sun protection practices in an informal occupational setting. Trained fieldworkers asked 236 workers in the Warwick Junction market about their workplace, skin and eye sensitivity and skin colour, symptoms faced at work during the summer due to heat, and preventive measures. Data were analyzed using univariate logistic regression to assess the effect of gender and the risk of experiencing symptoms to sun exposure in relation to pre-existing diseases and perception of sun exposure as a hazard. Of the 236 participants, 234 were Black African and 141 (59.7%) were female. Portable shade was the most commonly used form of sun protection (69.9%). Glare from the sun (59.7%) and excessive sweating (57.6%) were commonly reported sun-related health symptoms. The use of protective clothing was more prevalent among those who perceived sun exposure as a hazard (p = 0.003). In an informal occupational setting, sun exposure was high. Protective clothing and portable shade to eliminate heat and bright light were self-implemented. Action by local authorities to protect informal workers should consider sun exposure to support workers in their efforts to cope in hot weather.The South African Medical Research Council Intramural Research Grant (SAMRC-RFA-IRF-02-2016). Caradee Y.Wright receives research funding support from the South African Medical Research Council and the National Research Foundation Funding for Rated Researchers (Grant Number 95285).http://www.mdpi.com/journal/ijerpham2017Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorolog

African American Women Have a Disadvantage When It Comes to Cancer Care

Race has an impact on breast cancer treatment and survival. Non-Hispanic white women are more likely to survive breast cancer than African American women. Younger women are especially vulnerable. They tend to lack adequate health insurance.York's Knowledge Mobilization Unit provides services and funding for faculty, graduate students, and community organizations seeking to maximize the impact of academic research and expertise on public policy, social programming, and professional practice. It is supported by SSHRC and CIHR grants, and by the Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation. [email protected] www.researchimpact.c

Effect of Computer-Assisted Cognitive Behavior Therapy vs Usual Care on Depression Among Adults in Primary Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance Depression is a common disorder that may go untreated or receive suboptimal care in primary care settings. Computer-assisted cognitive behavior therapy (CCBT) has been proposed as a method for improving access to effective psychotherapy, reducing cost, and increasing the convenience and efficiency of treatment for depression. Objectives To evaluate whether clinician-supported CCBT is more effective than treatment as usual (TAU) in primary care patients with depression and to examine the feasibility and implementation of CCBT in a primary care population with substantial numbers of patients with low income, limited internet access, and low levels of educational attainment. Design, Setting, and Participants This randomized clinical trial included adult primary care patients from clinical practices at the University of Louisville who scored 10 or greater on the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9) and were randomly assigned to CCBT or TAU for 12 weeks of active treatment. Follow-up assessments were conducted 3 and 6 months after treatment completion. Enrollment occurred from June 24, 2016, to May 13, 2019. The last follow-up assessment was conducted on January 30, 2020. Interventions CCBT included use of the 9-lesson computer program Good Days Ahead, along with as many as 12 weekly telephonic support sessions of approximately 20 minutes with a master’s level therapist, in addition to TAU, which consisted of the standard clinical management procedures at the primary care sites. TAU was uncontrolled, but use of antidepressants and psychotherapy other than CCBT was recorded. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure (PHQ-9) and secondary outcome measures (Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire for negative cognitions, Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale for quality of life) were administered at baseline, 12 weeks, and 3 and 6 months after treatment completion. Satisfaction with treatment was assessed with the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire–8. Results The sample of 175 patients was predominately female (147 of 174 [84.5%]) and had a high proportion of individuals who identified as racial and ethnic minority groups (African American, 44 of 162 patients who reported [27.2%]; American Indian or Alaska Native, 2 [1.2%]; Hispanic, 4 [2.5%]; multiracial, 14 [8.6%]). An annual income of less than $30 000 was reported by 88 of 143 patients (61.5%). Overall, 95 patients (54.3%) were randomly assigned to CCBT and 80 (45.7%) to TAU. Dropout rates were 22.1% for CCBT (21 patients) and 30.0% for TAU (24 patients). An intent-to-treat analysis found that CCBT led to significantly greater improvement in PHQ-9 scores than TAU at posttreatment (mean difference, −2.5; 95% CI, −4.5 to −0.8; P = .005) and 3 month (mean difference, −2.3; 95% CI, −4.5 to −0.8; P = .006) and 6 month (mean difference, −3.2; 95% CI, −4.5 to −0.8; P = .007) follow-up points. Posttreatment response and remission rates were also significantly higher for CCBT (response, 58.4% [95% CI, 46.4-70.4%]; remission, 27.3% [95% CI, 16.4%-38.2%]) than TAU (response, 33.1% [95% CI, 20.7%-45.5%]; remission, 12.0% [95% CI, 3.3%- 20.7%]). Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, CCBT was found to have significantly greater effects on depressive symptoms than TAU in primary care patients with depression. Because the study population included people with lower income and lack of internet access who typically have been underrepresented or not included in earlier investigations of CCBT, results suggest that this form of treatment can be acceptable and useful in diverse primary care settings. Additional studies with larger samples are needed to address implementation procedures that could enhance the effectiveness of CCBT and to examine potential factors associated with treatment outcome

Relations between personal exposure to elevated concentrations of arsenic in water and soil and blood arsenic levels amongst people living in rural areas in Limpopo, South Africa

DATA AVAILABILITY : The datasets generated during this study are available from the authors upon request.CHANGE HISTORY : 30 January 2024. A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-024-32103-9Exposure to arsenic even at low levels can lead to adverse health outcomes, however, there is a paucity of research from South Africa in relation to human exposure to arsenic. We investigated long-term exposure of residents in Limpopo province, South Africa, in a cross-sectional study by analysing water, soil and blood arsenic concentrations from two arsenic-exposed (high and medium–low exposure) villages and one non-exposed (control) village. There were statistically significant differences in the distribution of arsenic in water, soil and blood amongst the three sites. The median drinking water arsenic concentration in the high-exposure village was 1.75 µg/L (range = 0.02 to 81.30 µg/L), 0.45 µg/L (range = 0.100 to 6.00 µg/L) in the medium- / low-exposure village and 0.15 µg/L (range =  < limit of detection (LOD) to 29.30 µg/L) in the control site. The median soil arsenic concentration in the high-exposure village was 23.91 mg/kg (range =  < LOD to 92.10 mg/kg) whilst arsenic concentrations were below the limit of detection in all soil samples collected from the medium-/low-exposure and control villages. In the high-exposure village, the median blood arsenic concentration was 1.6 µg/L (range = 0.7 to 4.2 µg/L); 0.90 µg/L (range =  < LOD to 2.5 µg/L) in the medium-/low-exposure village and 0.6 µg/L (range =  < LOD to 3.3 µg/L) in the control village. Significant percentages of drinking water, soil and blood samples from the exposed sites were above the internationally recommended guidelines (namely, 10 µg/L, 20 mg/kg and 1 µg/L, respectively). Majority of participants (86%) relied on borehole water for drinking and there was a significant positive correlation between arsenic in blood and borehole water (p-value = 0.031). There was also a statistically significant correlation between arsenic concentrations in participants’ blood and soil samples collected from gardens (p-value = 0.051). Univariate quantile regression found that blood arsenic concentrations increased by 0.034 µg/L (95% CI = 0.02–0.05) for each one unit increase in water arsenic concentrations (p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, water source and homegrown vegetable consumption in multivariate quantile regression, participants from the high-exposure site had significantly higher blood concentrations than those in the control site (coefficient: 1.00; 95% CI = 0.25–1.74; p-value = 0.009) demonstrating that blood arsenic is a good biomarker of arsenic exposure. Our findings also provide new evidence for South Africa on the association between drinking water and arsenic exposure, emphasising the need for the provision of potable water for human consumption in areas with high environmental arsenic concentrations.Open access funding provided by South African Medical Research Council. All authors receive research funding from the SAMRC.https://www.springer.com/journal/11356hj2024Geography, Geoinformatics and MeteorologySDG-06:Clean water and sanitationSDG-11:Sustainable cities and communitie

Indoor temperatures in patient waiting rooms in eight rural primary health care centers in Northern South Africa and the related potential risks to human health and wellbeing

Increased temperatures affect human health and vulnerable groups including infants, children, the elderly and people with pre-existing diseases. In the southern African region climate models predict increases in ambient temperature twice that of the global average temperature increase. Poor ventilation and lack of air conditioning in primary health care clinics, where duration of waiting time may be as long as several hours, pose a possible threat to patients seeking primary health care. Drawing on information measured by temperature loggers installed in eight clinics in Giyani, Limpopo Province of South Africa, we were able to determine indoor temperatures of waiting rooms in eight rural primary health care facilities. Mean monthly temperature measurements inside the clinics were warmer during the summer months of December, January and February, and cooler during the autumn months of March, April and May. The highest mean monthly temperature of 31.4 2.7 C was recorded in one clinic during February 2016. Maximum daily indoor clinic temperatures exceeded 38 C in some clinics. Indoor temperatures were compared to ambient (outdoor) temperatures and the mean difference between the two showed clinic waiting room temperatures were higher by 2–4 C on average. Apparent temperature (AT) incorporating relative humidity readings made in the clinics showed ‘realfeel’ temperatures were >4 C higher than measured indoor temperature, suggesting a feeling of ‘stuffiness’ and discomfort may have been experienced in the waiting room areas. During typical clinic operational hours of 8h00 to 16h00, mean ATs fell into temperature ranges associated with heat–health impact warning categories of ‘caution’ and ‘extreme caution’.Supplementary material: Figure S1: Indoor clinic temperatures, Figure S2: Mean indoor temperature experienced at each time point during each month for clinic 1, as an illustration of daily variation in indoor temperatures measurements, Figure S3: Indoor clinic apparent temperature, Figure S4: Differences between indoor clinic ambient apparent temperature and ambient temperature, Figure S5: Mean apparent temperature during clinic open hours of 8h00 to 16h00 compared to mean apparent temperature during all hours of the day, Table S1: Indoor clinic temperature and humidity measurements, Table S2: Ambient (outdoor) mean, minimum and maximum temperature and relative humidity measurements made at the Thohoyandou airport by month, Table S3: Monthly averages were compared for each clinic and the ambient (outdoor) temperature measurements and tested for statistically significant differences, Table S4: Mean apparent temperature (AT) per month for each clinic, with standard deviation and 1st and 99th percentiles.A South African Medical Research Council Flagship Grant, as well as funds from National Treasury under its Economic Competitiveness and Support Package, and a National Research Foundation Y-Rated Researchers grant.http://www.mdpi.com/journal/ijerpham2017Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorolog