bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the use of generative artificial intelligence in systematic searching: A comparative case study of a human librarian, ChatGPT-4 and ChatGPT-4 Turbo
Authors: Chen Xiayu Summer , Feng Yali
Published: July 2024

The advancement of ChatGPT-powered artificial intelligence (AI) opens up new possibilities for conducting systematic reviews. This study aims to examine how ChatGPT-powered AI can assist in the steps involved in systematic reviews, and its potential and challenges. The authors utilize a comparative case study approach to examine the search-term-generation and article-retrieval capabilities among a human librarian, ChatGPT-4, and a ChatGPT-4 Turbo customized AI-Librarian Bot. The findings suggest that AI could expand the scope of search terms and queries, automating the more repetitive and formulaic aspects of the systematic-review process, while human expertise remains crucial in refining search terms and ensuring methodological rigor. Meanwhile, challenges remain for AI tools’ capacity to access subscription-based or proprietary databases and generate sophisticated search strategies. This study advocates for a synergistic model where AI augments the systematic-review process, complementing the depth and nuance provided by human expertise in achieving accurate and comprehensive research outcomes.
Leveraging community engagement to contribute to Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 11
Authors: Bangani Siviwe
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the ways in which academic libraries in South Africa use community engagement as a strategy to advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals – specifically Sustainable Development Goals 8 and 11 – in the context of the study. It followed a multi-methods approach to interview and hold focus group discussions with heads of libraries and librarians, respectively, in South African public university libraries. It was found that the libraries advance these Sustainable Development Goals in various ways, such as by employing library student assistants and interns from different backgrounds, and by serving as employers themselves. Furthermore, the libraries serve as custodians of local culture and heritage by curating, digitising and preserving local collections for posterity. However, collaborative efforts between the libraries and other heritage institutions, such as museums, archives and galleries, are few and far between, which is deemed a missed opportunity for more meaningful cultural and heritage impacts for these institutions. More collaborations and partnerships between these institutions are recommended, especially with regard to the digitisation of cultural heritage collections. Therefore, a clarion call is made for libraries to think more expansively about their role and consider including sustainable thinking as part of their mission in line with the American Library Association. The results demonstrate that libraries are uniquely positioned to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
University students’ information literacy skills and impact of training in Bangladesh
Authors: Akter Taslima , Ahmed SM Zabed
Published: July 2024

This article examines university students’ perceived skill levels in utilizing internet resources and library tools, as well as accomplishing specific information-skills tasks, and assesses the impact of information literacy training in Bangladesh. The study involved two phases: first, a survey was administered to a sample of 257 students and, second, an experiment was conducted with 28 students to examine the effectiveness of training. The survey results show that the students perceived their skills with internet resources and library tools to be at a high level, with significant differences found in skill levels based on gender and age. Additionally, the students reported a high level of perceived skills in completing information tasks, with no significant differences found across the demographic variables. In the experimental study, the participants exhibited low task performance on a set of 22 task questions prior to training, achieving an overall correct score of 28.4%. However, a significant improvement in correct scores (57.1%) was observed after participating in the skills training.
Evaluation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes alignment during 3D printing of poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) nanocomposite filaments
Authors: Garoosi Keyvan , Ghaffarian Seyed Reza , Razavi-Nouri Mohammad , Rezadoust Amir Masood , Soheilpour Zahra
Published: July 2024

Nanocomposites incorporated with one-dimensional electrical conductive materials such as carbon nanotubes have been used in many applications in various industries. In this research, the filaments made of poly (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) (ABS) containing 1, 3, and 5 wt% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were first prepared and then printed in three directions and two printing speeds. The rheological and electrical percolation thresholds were found to take place at 0.32 and 0.96 wt% MWCNT, respectively. Using the Casson plot, it was revealed that the yield stress of the nanocomposites containing 5 wt% MWCNT was 70 times higher than that of the pristine ABS. The results also indicated that the electrical resistance decreased from 17.4 to 6.8 Ω with the increase in printing speed from 4 to 20 mm/s, respectively. The alignment of the nanofillers was examined using X-ray diffraction method. It was found from the azimuth angle that the materials printed at higher printing speed had more orientation, with respect to the director, in comparison with that of printed at lower speed.
Engagement with partners is a leading practice in health workforce planning: What health leaders need to know
Authors: Ladak Zeenat , Akuamoah-Boateng Henrietta , Damba Cynthia , Frohlich Rachel , Hall Shelly-Ann , Ikeh Joy , Khalikova Renata , Simkin Sarah , Trainor Ruth , Yu Catherine , Bourgeault Ivy Lynn
Published: July 2024

Workforce planning ensures that the health workforce is aligned with current and future population needs. Engagement with partners and knowledge users is a leading practice in planning and is essential for planning to be successful. The goal of this study was to explore the considerations and processes involved in integrating engagement into workforce planning. Through a case study of primary care workforce planning in Toronto, we address the role of engagement, how it can be integrated into planning, and how lessons from engagement support spread and scale of effective workforce planning. In the course of engagement with five Ontario Health Teams between September 2023 and February 2024, we learned that there is considerable enthusiasm for planning, but that support is needed, and that engagement guides investment and strengthens relationships. We offer guidance for leaders with respect to actualizing engagement and building capacity for health workforce planning across the health system.
Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia Among Non-Hispanic White and Black Populations Aged 50-64 in the United States, 2006-2016
Authors: Wei Jingkai , Lohman Matthew C. , Brown Monique J. , Hardin James W. , Yang Chih-Hsiang , Merchant Anwar T. , Friedman Daniela B.
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives

Non-Hispanic Black populations (NHB) have a significantly higher prevalence of dementia than non-Hispanic Whites in the U.S., and the underlying risk factors may play a role in this racial disparity. We aimed to calculate risk scores for dementia among non-Hispanic White (NHW) and non-Hispanic Black populations aged 50-64 years over a period of 10 years, and to estimate potential differences of scores between NHW and NHB.

Research Design and Methods

The Health and Retirement Study from 2006 to 2016 was used to calculate the Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging, and Incidence of Dementia (CAIDE) risk score, a validated score for predicting dementia risk. Weighted average CAIDE score, as well as CAIDE score for modifiable factors hypertension, obese, hypercholesterolemia, physical inactivity), and non-modifiable factors (age, sex, education) were calculated for adults aged 50-64 years with normal cognition for 2006-2008, 2010-2012, 2014-2016. The associations of race with CAIDE score and elevated CAIDE score were examined.

Results

A total of 10,871 participants were included in the analysis. The CAIDE score showed declining trends for NHB from 2006 to 2016, while NHB consistently had a higher total CAIDE score and CAIDE score for modifiable factors from 2006 to 2016, but not for non-modifiable factors.

Discussion and Implications

NHB had a higher level of dementia risk factors than NHW among adults aged 50-64 years in the U.S. from 2006 to 2016, and the difference is attributable to modifiable risk factors, which holds promise for risk reduction of dementia.
HIV and intersectional stigma among people living with HIV and healthcare workers and antiretroviral therapy adherence in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Kerr Jelani , Yigit Ibrahim , Long Dustin M , Paulino-Ramírez Robert , Waters John , Hao Jiaying , Nyblade Laura , Varas-Díaz Nelson , Naar Sylvie , Bond Christyenne L , Budhwani Henna , Turan Janet M
Published: July 2024

Background

HIV-related stigma, discrimination, and social marginalization undermines optimal HIV care outcomes. More research examining the impact of HIV-related stigma, discrimination, other interlocking forms of oppression, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is needed to optimize HIV treatment programming. This study uses data from two clinics in the Dominican Republic to examine client and healthcare worker (HCW) perceptions of HIV and intersectional stigmas among people living with HIV.

Methods

Surveys exploring demographics, HIV-related stigma, various dimensions of discrimination (race/ethnicity, HIV status, sexual orientation), healthcare engagement, and medication adherence were collected from 148 clients and 131 HCWs. Analysis of variance was conducted to examine differences in stigma by clinic and logistic regressions were used to determine predictors of optimal client medication adherence.

Results

Perceived discrimination in healthcare facilities due to clients’ sexual orientation retained significance in crude and multivariable logistic regression models and was negatively associated with ART adherence (aOR:0.79; 95% CI:0.66, 0.95).

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of implementing strategies to address stigma, discrimination, and social marginalization, particularly within healthcare facilities.
Increase in congenital syphilis in a tertiary-care centre from Madrid, Spain: Back to the classics
Authors: Maldonado-Barrueco Alfredo , Sanz-González Claudia , Falces-Romero Iker , Gutiérrez-Arroyo Almudena , Montero-Vega Dolores , Quiles-Melero Inmaculada
Published: July 2024

Globally, an increase in sexually transmitted diseases worldwide has been reported, including acquired Treponema pallidum infection. Congenital syphilis is the mother-to-child transmission syphilis infection, experiencing an increase in cases returning to incidence rates of years ago. We report three cases of symptomatic congenital syphilis occurring in a tertiary-care hospital in Madrid (Spain). Cases were diagnosed by serology and molecular biology methods. The use of molecular techniques in specimens such as skin lesion, subplacental exudate swabs, bronchoalveolar aspirate, or cerebrospinal fluid could favour the diagnosis of this clinical entity, especially in symptomatic newborns with systemic involvement.
A novel long noncoding RNA ENST00000597482 serves as a potential biomarker for disease activity and diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wang Cuicui , Yuan Shiwen , Zeng Yanting , Li Weinian , Ye Jinghua , Li Fangfei , He Zhixiang , Chen Yi , Lin Xiaojun , Liang Liuqin , Xu Hanshi , Cai Xiaoyan
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Emerging evidence indicate that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) however, the contribution of lncRNAs to SLE remains largely unclear. Our study aimed to explore the lncRNA expression profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from SLE patients.

Methods

LncRNA sequencing was used to detect differentially expressed genes in PBMCs from 5 SLE-MIX samples and 3 healthy controls (HC)-MIX samples, and the expression of selected lncRNAs was further verified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR). The correlation of lncRNA expression with laboratory indicators as well the SLE disease activity index 2000 (SLEDAI‒2K) score from 72 SLE patients was assessed by Spearman’s test. The association between lncRNA ENST00000597482 and organ involvement in SLE patients was determined by the Mann‒Whitney U test. Moreover, lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood from SLE patients were measured by flow cytometry. In addition, the diagnostic value of lncRNAs in predicting SLE was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

The lncRNA expression profiles demonstrated 218 differentially expressed lncRNAs, including 121 upregulated genes and 97 downregulated genes, in PBMCs from SLE patients compared to HCs. Among the 10 candidate genes selected, only lncRNA ENST00000597482, which was lower in SLE PBMCs than in HCs, was consistent with the sequencing results. LncRNA ENST00000597482 expression was negatively correlated with SLEDAI-2K score and the titres of ANA antibodies and anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies. Of note, SLE patients with lower expression of lncRNA ENST00000597482 were prone to develop organ involvement. Furthermore, lncRNA ENST00000597482 exhibited potential diagnostic value in differentiating SLE patients from HCs.

Conclusions

LncRNA ENST00000597482 expression was lower in PBMCs from SLE patients than HCs and was negatively correlated with the SLEDAI-2K score and autoantibody titres. In addition, lncRNA ENST00000597482 could act as a novel biomarker for disease activity and diagnosis of SLE.
Women's representation in surf video games: A stereotyped, objectified and romanticized portrayal
Authors: Sanz-Marcos Paloma , Meléndez González-Haba Guadalupe
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the relationship between the video game industry and sports. These two disciplines traditionally contribute to the perpetuation of stereotypes that create a reality around women based on inappropriate assumptions, which are generally interpreted from a masculinized perspective. Taking surfing as an example, a sport associated with a markedly masculine environment, this paper aims to investigate how women surfers are portrayed in order to show how the representations of women's identity as surfers are represented in video games. A mixed method is proposed which aims to gather information from two distinct perspectives: that of the participant and the communicative aspect. The analyzed video game highlights a masculinized, sexualized and romanticized stereotype of women. It is emphasized that a specific style of women surfers is characterized by an objectified character stripped of any discernable sports-related attributes, thereby establishing a potential relationship between the representation of women in the video game and its influence on women's identity as sports subjects. The gender gap between men and women extends beyond the field of sports, causing a substantial impact on both industries.
Entrenched maltreatment in sport: Unintended consequences of the mix of practices and narratives
Authors: Park Haewan , Sam Michael P , Jackson Steven J
Published: July 2024

The concern for athlete maltreatment in elite sport emerged in response to a wide range of high-profile cases. While diverse theories and concepts have been used to explore the subject, there is a need for non-Western analyses that can attend to the cultures, practices and narratives of Asian states. Drawing on the case of South Korea's elite sport system, this paper scrutinises the mix of institutional practices and narratives that may variously converge to enable maltreatment or diverge, to prompt calls for systemic change. Grounded in ‘new institutionalism’ and a qualitative approach that incorporates document analysis and semi-structured interviews, this research examines maltreatment within a unique Korean Confucian hierarchical socio-cultural context. The results indicate that complementary practices and narratives enable maltreatment and facilitate the continuation of the system. Conversely, this study also investigated instances of divergence highlighting the impetus for change. However, there is some evidence to suggest that accommodating reforms, which remain essentially shaped by existing practices and narratives, often lead to resistance against substantial change. In sum, the combination of convergent and divergent practices and narratives, within the complex and unique cultural and structural context of Korea, signals that while policy changes to address athlete maltreatment are emerging, barriers to fundamental, sustained change remain.
An ambition at a crossroads: Transiting out of the game in amateur and semi-professional football in Nigeria
Authors: Ejekwumadu Ikechukwu
Published: July 2024

Thousands of youths play in amateur and semi-professional clubs in Nigeria with the hope of achieving a professional contract or transnational migration through football. For the majority, however, the social and spatial mobility that is hoped for is never realised. This means that they would have to terminate their pursuit and transition into alternative adulthood pathways. Through semi-structured interviews with former players, this study explored how athletes in amateur and semi-professional football in Nigeria experience and navigate the termination process and transition out of the game. The findings revealed that career termination may develop in a non-linear trajectory as athletes consider their chances of a professional career, age and the obligations of adulthood and intergenerational care. Generally, the athletes navigated the process without significant support from their clubs or other institutions. However, they made use of the social capital and relationships built from their involvement in football (e.g. going into coaching) or leveraged familial ties to secure alternative livelihood opportunities. While participants in this study showed a proactive quest narrative to rebuild their lives away from football, some reported experiences of a chaos narrative among former colleagues, especially manifesting in alcoholism. The findings of this study underscored the need for frameworks for dual career planning for athletes alongside their athletic education and making provisions for psychosocial support for players transitioning out of the game.
PCSK2 can be Useful in a Panel Approach to Distinguish Foregut and Midgut Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Ladenheim Alexander , Zheng Jasper X. , Teklu Abebe , Matsukuma Karen
Published: July 2024

A number of immunohistochemical stains have been examined for utility in establishing the site of origin for metastatic well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). In the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, distinguishing metastatic duodenal NETs from jejunoileal and other GI NETs is important for clinical work-up, prognosis, and therapy. A recent study indicated that prohormone convertase 2 (PCSK2 or PC2) had broad expression in small intestine and appendiceal NETs. Because the study did not include duodenal NETs, we examined PCSK2 expression in duodenal and other GI NETs.

GI NETs (n = 69) and 13 corresponding lymph node metastases from stomach, duodenum, pancreas, ileum, appendix, and rectum were evaluated for the expression of PCSK2, along with ISL1, NKX2.2, CDX2, SATB2, and PAX8. Expression of each stain was evaluated using the H-score system, and differences in expression by site were evaluated by the chi square test.

PCSK2 was expressed at similar frequency in duodenal (50%), pancreatic (59%), and ileal NETs (40%). PCSK2 was infrequently expressed in stomach (0%), appendiceal (8%), and rectal (25%) NETs. However, incorporating PCSK2 into a panel including ISL1, NKX2.2, CDX2, and SATB2 allowed development of an algorithm which had 87% sensitivity and 93% specificity for classification of ileal NETs; and 68% sensitivity and 98% specificity for pancreaticoduodenal NETs.

In contrast to previous findings, PCSK2 does not show specificity for any particular GI site. An algorithmic approach incorporating the expression of PCSK2 with that of ISL1, NKX2.2, CDX2, and SATB2 is useful in discriminating pancreatic, duodenal, ileal, appendiceal, and rectal NETs.
Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis in a Young Man Undergoing Lung Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Mar Conde María d , Ramírez Luis E , Morales Eliana I , Sua Luz F , Trujillo Liliana F
Published: July 2024

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis is a rare disease characterized by the deposition of microliths in the alveoli, attributed to mutations in the solute carrier family 34 member 2 ( SLC34A2) gene. Diagnosis is often incidental to chest imaging, most frequently occurring between the second and fourth decades of life. The disease follows a progressive course and manifests with a clinical-radiological dissociation. No effective treatment is known except for lung transplantation.

We report on a 28-year-old Hispanic male patient with no relevant personal or family history, presenting with progressive exertional dyspnea and intermittent dry cough. He was referred for evaluation by pulmonology due to abnormal findings on chest x-ray. High-resolution computed tomography revealed diffuse lung opacities caused by multiple microcalcifications, suggesting pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis with additional signs of pulmonary hypertension. Throughout his clinical course, he experienced a decline in functional class with severe impairment in pulmonary function tests. He underwent transplant evaluation, and the procedure was performed, with reported complications including airway stenosis, which were managed. Despite these challenges, the patient eventually showed positive progress and maintained an adequate functional class.

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis is a rare disease with a chronic clinical course and variable manifestations. Its progressive deterioration leads to chronic respiratory failure. A high index of suspicion is required when evaluating characteristic radiological findings and conducting relevant differential diagnoses. No specific treatment guidelines are available, and lung transplantation emerges as the only effective therapy, as illustrated in the described patient.
A new distributed robust H∞ control strategy for a class of uncertain interconnected large-scale time-delay systems subject to actuator saturation and disturbance
Authors: Mahmoudi Rashid Sara , Rikhtehgar Ghiasi Amir , Ghaemi Sehraneh
Published: July 2024

In the realm of large-scale systems, the complexity of controller design has long been exacerbated by the proliferation of decision variables and inherent conservatism. This study introduces a novel approach to address these challenges, presenting a new distributed robust controller design methodology tailored for large-scale systems grappling with disturbances, uncertainties, and actuator saturations. The primary objectives include reducing conservatism, minimizing decision variables, and significantly curtailing computation time. To surmount these hurdles, the research leverages descriptive and reciprocally convex methods, formulating the design procedure using linear matrix inequalities. This enables the adjustment of uncertain parameters and robust disturbance rejection, thereby ensuring stability in large-scale systems. Additionally, a feedback control law is proposed to accommodate saturation constraints and ensure the closed-loop system’s stability. Notably, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is demonstrated through the evaluation of a full-car active suspension system, which is partitioned into interconnected subsystems to a large-scale system. Comparative analyses underscore the superior performance and technical advancements offered by the proposed methodology over existing approaches.
Finite element modeling and modal testing of a wind turbine lattice tower component with interference pin connections
Authors: Glazier Kyle , Yuan Ke , Will David Thomas , Zhu Weidong , Xu Yongfeng
Published: July 2024

Fatigue failures at fastener holes in structures are undesirable as they can lead to catastrophic mechanical failures. Interference pins create interference fits with joined components to reduce stresses around fastener holes and extend the fatigue life of a structure. In this research, a novel method for finite element (FE) modeling of interference pin connections in a wind turbine lattice tower component was developed. The installation of interference pins was modeled using a two-stage process that causes local stiffness changes in joined members of the component. The local stiffness changes were accounted for in the FE model by using cylinders to represent the interference pins. An experimental setup, including a three-dimensional (3D) scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (SLDV) and a mirror, was used to measure out-of-plane and in-plane natural frequencies and mode shapes of the component. Ten out-of-plane modes and one in-plane mode from the FE model are compared with the experimental results to validate the accuracy of the FE modeling approach. The maximum percent difference between the theoretical and experimental natural frequencies of the component is 3.21%, and the modal assurance criterion (MAC) values between the theoretical and experimental mode shapes are 0.92 or greater, showing good agreement between the theoretical and experimental modal parameters of the component.
Controlling chaos and codimension-two bifurcation in a discrete fractional-order Brusselator model
Authors: Din Qamar
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the qualitative behavior of a discrete fractional–order Brusselator model. We analyze the local dynamics of the model around its fixed point and determine its topological classification. We perform the bifurcation analysis for both codimension-one and codimension-two cases to examine the system behavior near critical parameter values. Using normal form theory and center manifold theorem (CMT), we prove that the model exhibits period-doubling bifurcation around its interior fixed point. We also study the existence and direction of Neimark–Sacker bifurcation using normal form theory. For codimension-two bifurcation, we show that the model undergoes 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 resonances by applying normal form theory and suitable affine transformations. The system displays a rich variety of bifurcations, including quasi–periodicity, periodic orbits, chaotic behavior, and resonance bifurcation. Furthermore, the existence of chaos is discussed in the sense of Marotto, and a novel chaos control method is proposed for discrete Brusselator model using an extended pole–placement approach. This modified approach is more suitable for codimension-two bifurcation situations. Numerical simulations are used to illustrate the theoretical discussion.
The impact of ozone and equilibrium-modified atmosphere packaging on storage stability and health-promoting indicators of fresh “Angelino” plums
Authors: Caner Cengiz , Pala Çiğdem Uysal , Yüceer Muhammed
Published: July 2024

Effectiveness of ozone concentrations (2, 5, and 10 ppm) and exposure time (3 and 9 min) on selected physicochemical properties (pH, soluble solids, color values (L*, a*, and b*), and texture) and health-promoting indicators such as organic acids, total phenolics (TP), and anthocyanins of “Angelino” fresh plums was evaluated during storage (0, 30, 90, and 120 days) in equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP). Total anthocyanin contents and organic acid profiles were significantly affected by storage times. Malic acid (MA) was the main organic acid in “Angelino” plums. MA content (4663 and 4764 mg/L) was the highest value in the ozonated 2-ppm/9-min and 5-ppm/3-min than other ozonated groups and also control at 120 days of the storage. The ozone treatments especially 2-ppm/9-min and 5-ppm/3 min can significantly retard the degradation of MA content (8294 to 2688–2694 mg/L) during the storage ( p < .05). Total phenol content were most significantly decreased in the control during storage, with the loss at the level of 31.7% of TPs, while the lowest one 2-ppm/9-min (20.8%) and 5-ppm/-3 min (21.9%). The color and texture are maintained for the ozone applications compared to the control during storage. Ozonation with 2-ppm/9-min and 5-ppm/-3 min showed the best performance while maintaining the storage stability based on the physicochemical properties including hardness and bioactive compounds (such as anthocyanins and organic acids), visual appearance due to the more attractive color (L*, a*, b*) the plums.
Ikigai and saudade, cultural meanings lived through the body
Authors: de Almeida Igor , Rodrigues Jamila
Published: July 2024

This study examines culture-specific emotions as embodied experience. Culturally based emotions are often linguistically and conceptually unique to particular groups, which may pose translation challenges. Despite most studies focusing on linguistic and cognitive aspects of emotions, this article posits that embodiment also plays a role in understanding culture-specific emotions. We examine two cultural concepts, saudade from Portuguese-speaking cultures and ikigai from the Japanese culture, and how they can be part of an embodied experience within each culture. This study sheds light on the idea that although these concepts mean different things for people in their cultural context, the manner in which saudade and ikigai is articulated is indeed an embodied experience, a body and mind relationship and, source of body knowledge.
Worldmaking on digital platforms: A study of Cuban comedy in social media
Authors: Morales-Suárez Mariela
Published: July 2024

This article studies the digital-cultural labor of three Cuban Instagram comedians and the worldmaking they promote. The comedians, Marlon, Chupetin, and Kende, immensely popular among Cuban audiences, create content that centers their Black working-class and street-smart identity. Through a close analysis of how these comedians utilize performance as rhetorical tools, I examine the entanglements and possibilities that marginalized content creators face when making symbolic and embodied meaning not sanctioned by the nation-state's meta-narratives of normative identity. I draw on theories of performance studies, media anthropology and Caribbean studies, to conceptualize the political, cultural, and personal stakes that come with the ‘world-making’ labor of Cuban Instagram comedians. I argue performances of estranged ways of being, distributed through transnational digital networks, enact aspirations of redressing long-standing desires and anxieties about national identity and personal agency. Ultimately this article situates social media platforms as vital spaces of worldmaking in a digital era.
Study on the axial compression behavior of masonry columns strengthened with engineered cementitious composite splints and fiber-reinforced polymer strips
Authors: Hao Tong , Chen Weilai , Zhang Pu , Liu Ye , Sheikh Shamim Ahmed
Published: July 2024

This paper presents experimental and analytical studies on the axial compressive properties and failure mechanics of 19 strengthened masonry columns. The masonry column was strengthened singly and compositely by applying engineered cementitious composite (ECC) splints and wrapping discontinuous fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strips around the sides of the masonry column. The effects of the type of strengthening material (ECC splints or FRP strips), the thickness of the ECC splint, and the FRP strip strengthening area ratio on the failure mode, peak load, strain behavior, and energy dissipation of the specimens were analyzed and discussed in this experimental study. Under the appropriate parameters, the best strengthening effect was observed for the compositely strengthened masonry columns. In particular, the ductility, bearing capacity, and energy dissipation of masonry columns can be significantly improved by utilizing FRP with lower tensile strength, a higher FRP strip strengthening area ratio and a thicker ECC splint. Based on the existing computational models and code calculation methods for masonry columns strengthened with ECC splints and FRP strips, a formula for calculating the compressive bearing capacity of strengthened masonry columns was derived. The error between all the calculated and the measured results was less than 7.1%.
A comparative study of multi-ethnic perspectives on aging in Malaysian newspapers
Authors: Yang Lai Fong , Fernandez Prasana Rosaline , Tan Linda Poh Gaik
Published: July 2024

Media plays an important role in representing cultural beliefs about aging, and the influence of cultural and societal factors on the portrayal of aging is well documented. Malaysia, with its diverse demographics of different ethnicities, religions, and languages, provides a unique context for investigating how aging is represented. This study employed framing as the theoretical framework and qualitative content analysis as the research method to compare the portrayal of aging in Malaysian newspapers published in Malay, Chinese, and English. In addition, a popular online-only newspaper in the country was included in the analysis. The findings showed an emphasis on the well-being/welfare of older people in Malaysian newspapers; however, the discourse reflected elements of paternalism and ageism, with the voices of older adults having limited representation. The implications of these findings were discussed in relation to the media’s role in reporting the aging process.
Abnormal Temporal Window of Integration in Auditory Sensory Memory in Schizophrenia
Authors: Asai Ren , Yabe Hirooki , Hiruma Tomiharu , Matsuoka Takashi , Asai Haruko , Hara Etsuko , Mori Yuhei , Suzutani Ken , Hoshino Hiroshi , Shiga Tetsuya , Miura Itaru , Hirata Koichi , Kaneko Sunao
Published: July 2024

Mismatch negativity (MMN) is automatically elicited by incoming sound deviation compared to the neural representation of preceding homogenous sounds stored in the brain's auditory sensory memory. This study aimed to assess time-functional deviation sensitivity in auditory sensory memory associated with a temporal window of integration (TWI) of 160-170 msec in patients with schizophrenia. To this end, we measured the magnetic counterpart of the MMN (MMNm) in 20 patients with schizophrenia on medication and 20 healthy age-matched adults as a control group responding to an omitted tone segment incorporated into a complex sound of 176 ms duration corresponding to the TWI duration. Overall, the magnitude of the MMNm was smaller in the patients with schizophrenia than in the healthy control group. The peak latency of the MMNm was prolonged in the latter omitted segments for both groups, but to a greater extent in patients with schizophrenia. These results indicate that deviation detection is impaired in the later part of the TWI, corresponding to the duration of auditory sensory memory in patients with schizophrenia. Thus, the specific impairment of MMN in response to duration deviants (duration MMN), as previously reported, might result from a damaged mechanism in the later part of the TWI of sensory memory, suggesting that a decline in sensory memory causes distorted perception or disturbances in cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia.
Patients’ perceptions of community pharmacists’ role: A cross-sectional study in Lebanon
Authors: Kalash Ali , Hatem Georges , Chaheen Mohammad , Awada Sanaa , Rachidi Samar , Ajrouche Roula
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Recognizing, fostering, and maintaining a favorable public image is crucial for developing strong connections between patients and pharmacists, ultimately enhancing the pharmacist’s influence on healthcare results. Consequently, this research seeks to evaluate how the community perceives the role of pharmacists in Lebanon.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among the Lebanese residents over 2 months. One-way analysis of variance assessed the relationship between the perception score and the general characteristics of the study sample. A multivariate analysis was performed using linear regression models to evaluate the combined effect of predictors on the perception score.

Results

The study comprised exclusively Lebanese participants, with a slightly higher proportion of males (53.4%) than females (46.6%) and a diverse age distribution, ranging from 18 to 65 years old, with 9.1% being 65 years or older. After adjusting for covariates, females scored 0.25 points lower than males (CI (−0.65, 0.15); p = .217), while individuals aged 40–49 and 50–65 had perception scores of 0.18 and 0.55 points lower than those aged 18–29, respectively (CI (−0.83, 0.48); p = .595 and CI (−1.29, 0.20); p = .153, respectively). Participants from Nabatiyeh had a perception score increase of 0.82 compared to those in Beirut (CI (0.15–1.49); p < .017), and those working in non-medical fields scored 0.90 points lower than others (CI (−1.49, −0.32); p = .002). Individuals with at least one comorbidity scored 0.83 points lower (CI (−1.44, −0.21); p = .008), while patients with public insurance and those with a treatment duration of 6 months had perception scores 0.57 and 0.66 points lower, respectively, compared to their counterparts (CI (−1.12, −0.03); p = .039 and CI (−1.29, −0.03); p = .040).

Conclusion

Findings stress the significance of tailored healthcare and consistent patient-pharmacist relationships, especially for managing complex conditions, underscoring the importance of understanding these dynamics to bolster trust and appreciation for community pharmacists in Lebanon.
Challenges in implementing instructional leadership: Insights from Turkish school principals
Authors: Cansoy Ramazan , Gümüş Sedat , Walker Allan
Published: July 2024

The growing international literature on instructional leadership notes that its implementation often varies depending on cultural and contextual factors. Previous studies have indicated that while Turkish school principals demonstrate some instructional leadership behaviours, they frequently do not practice its key components such as shaping teacher professional development, goal setting, curriculum development and instructional supervision. This study used qualitative research methods, including interviews with 33 school principals, to identify and understand the major barriers hindering the implementation of instructional leadership in Türkiye. Factors such as a lack of authority, beliefs about the profession, workload, community context, inadequate resources and principal competency are key influences affecting the implementation and effectiveness of instructional leadership in Türkiye. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of the nature of instructional leadership in diverse cultural contexts.
Impact of nebulization versus metered-dose inhaler utilization on viral particle dispersion in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Clemency Brian M , Clay Candice , Varughese Renoj , Kennedy Carli , Yates Wayne , Lat Asma , Ling Ching Ai , Clark Doug , Lewin David , Chen Xianyi , Castro Mario
Published: July 2024

Background

Conflicting guidance exists regarding the characterization of nebulization as an aerosol-generating procedure and subsequent risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to healthcare workers.

Aim/Objective

This study sought to address whether SARS-CoV-2 viral load distribution was impacted by bronchodilator delivery via nebulizer versus metered-dose inhaler (MDI).

Methods

Adults infected with COVID-19 were enrolled and received a single dose of albuterol sulfate nebulized solution (2.5 mg/3 mL via breath-actuated nebulizer with filtered mouthpiece) or albuterol sulfate hydrofluoroalkane inhalation aerosol (90 µg/actuation; two puffs via MDI with spacer) in a randomized crossover sequence. Air and surfaces were sampled at predefined locations within patients’ hospital rooms to assess SARS-CoV-2 dispersion over three periods (baseline, MDI, and nebulizer).

Findings/Results

Eleven patients received crossover therapy. Six patients had detectable SARS-CoV-2 RNA during one treatment period ( n = 3 each for MDI and nebulizer) and one during both treatment periods. No viral RNA was found in the rooms of four (36.4%) patients. Overall, few environmental samples (17/397; 4.3%) contained detectable viral RNA, with no meaningful differences in positivity rate across periods; RNA genome copy numbers were low in positive samples. No correlation between dispersion and patient clinical status or environmental parameters was observed.

Discussion

In this first prospective trial evaluating viral load distribution following use of nebulizer versus MDI in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, low environmental contamination was found regardless of administration method. Findings support the use of either device when needed to treat patients with COVID-19.
Possibilities in Three Parts for Collaborative Futures in Autoethnography
Authors: Pelias Ronald J.
Published: July 2024

This speculative essay, divided into three sections, raises questions about the collaborative future of autoethnography while asserting the author’s continued commitment to the method. It starts by identifying collaborative practices in the author’s past, then moves to a series of possibilities for future practice, and ends by identifying autoethnographic orientations that the author endorses. Each section carries a note of skepticism about autoethnography’s efficacy.
Beyond Zionism and Anti-Zionism: A Future of the American Jewish Left and the Negation of the ‘Negation of the Diaspora’
Authors: Magid Shaul
Published: July 2024

This essay engages the challenges and future of the New Jewish Anti-Zionist Left in America. How has anti-Zionism become an expression of progressive Jewishness and in what ways is this anti-Zionism itself a product of the Zionization of American Judaism in the past half century? The essay then turns to ask the ways progressive Jewish America can move past anti-Zionism and in doing so move past Zionization and begin to construct a New Radical Jewish Diasporism that would include new forms of religious/spiritual expression not bound by fidelity to Israel. This final section is more a prolegomenon for a possible future for the Jewish Left today to revive a new form of Radical Diasporism that is both not Zionist, and not anti-Zionist.
Patient Care During Ramadan: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bhuiyan M. Nadir , Saadiq Rayya A. , Mueller Michael R. , Abdalrhim Ahmed D. , Overgaard Joshua
Published: July 2024

Ramadan is the Islamic holy month when Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset. This 30-day pattern of intermittent diurnal fasting can have a significant physiologic impact on the body. Importantly, oral intake is forbidden during this time, and many patients do not wish to take medications. From a clinical perspective, this potentially impacts healthcare delivery and chronic disease states. Despite these important changes, awareness of individual patient practices remains limited among healthcare providers in North America, which may worsen health disparities in Muslim patients. A fundamental understanding of the cultural and physiological implications of fasting during Ramadan can improve cultural competence and patient outcomes. In this paper, we review the physiologic changes during fasting, medical exemptions to fasting, and special considerations for the care of Muslim patients with chronic conditions who may fast during Ramadan.
Multi-omics Mendelian randomization integrating GWAS, eQTL and pQTL data revealed GSTM4 as a potential drug target for migraine
Authors: Sun Xinyue , Chen Bohong , Qi Yi , Wei Meng , Chen Wanying , Wu Xiaoyu , Wang Qingfan , Li Jiahao , Lei Xiangyu , Luo Guogang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Migraine, as a complex neurological disease, brings heavy burden to patients and society. Despite the availability of established therapies, existing medications have limited efficacy. Thus, we aimed to find the drug targets that improve the prognosis of migraine.

Method

We used Mendelian Randomization (MR) and Summary-data-based MR (SMR) analyses to study possible drug targets of migraine by summary statistics from FinnGen cohorts (nCase = 44,616, nControl = 367,565), with further replication in UK Biobank (nCase = 26,052, nControl = 487,214). Genetic instruments were obtained from eQTLGen and UKB-PPP to verify the drug targets at the gene expression and protein levels. The additional analyses including Bayesian co-localization, the heterogeneity in dependent instruments(HEIDI), Linkage Disequilibrium Score(LDSC), bidirectional MR, multivariate MR(MVMR), heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test, and Steiger filtering were implemented to consolidate the findings further. Lastly, drug prediction analysis and phenome-wide association study(PheWAS) were employed to imply the possibility of drug targets for future clinical applications.

Result

The MR analysis of eQTL data showed that four drug targets (PROCR, GSTM4, SLC4A1, and TNFRSF10A) were significantly associated with migraine risk in both the FinnGen and UK Biobank cohorts. However, only GSTM4 exhibited consistent effect directions across the two outcomes(Discovery cohort: OR(95%CI) = 0.94(0.93–0.96); p = 2.70e − 10; Replication cohort: OR(95%CI) = 0.93(0.91–0.94); p = 4.21e − 17). Furthermore, GSTM4 passed the SMR at p < 0.05 and HEIDI test at p > 0.05 at both the gene expression and protein levels. The protein-level MR analysis revealed a strong correlation between genetically predicted GSTM4 with a lower incidence of migraine and its subtypes(Overall migraine: OR(95%CI) = 0.91(0.87–0.95); p = 6.98e-05; Migraine with aura(MA): OR(95%CI) = 0.90(0.85–0.96); p = 2.54e-03; Migraine without aura(MO): OR(95%CI) = 0.90(0.83–0.96); p = 2.87e-03), indicating a strong co-localization relationship (PPH4 = 0.86). Further analyses provided additional validation for the possibility of GSTM4 as a migraine treatment target.

Conclusion

This study identifies GSTM4 as a potential druggable gene and promising therapeutic target for migraine.
The prognostic value of postoperative platelet levels in elderly patients after valve replacement surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nong Yuxin , Wei Xuebiao , Lu Junquan , Yu Danqing
Published: July 2024

Background

Further research is needed to assess the risk and prognosis after valve replacement surgery in elderly patients. This study aims to assess the prognostic value of platelet levels following valve replacement in elderly patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 3814 elderly individuals who underwent valve replacement surgery, categorized into quartiles based on postoperative platelet levels. Univariate and multiple regression analysis were used to assess the risk factors associated with postoperative platelet levels and in-hospital death.The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was utilized to establish the postoperative platelet level threshold indicative of in-hospital mortality risk, while the Kaplan-Meier curve compared the one-year postoperative survival among patients with differing postoperative platelet levels.

Results

The low postoperative platelet levels group had a higher incidence of massive bleeding (> 400 ml), necessitating platelet transfusion and prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass during surgery (P < 0.001). However, postoperative occurrences of heart failure and stroke did not achieve statistical significance (P > 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis disclosed an association between postoperative platelet levels and in-hospital death (OR: 2.040, 95% CI: 1.372–3.034, P < 0.001). Over the one-year follow-up, patients with low platelet levels postoperatively had poorer overall survival than patients with higher platelet levels (P < 0.001)

Conclusion

Postoperative platelets can serve as a prognostic indicator after valve surgery in elderly patients as a simple and easily available biochemical indicator. Enhanced monitoring and management postoperative platelet level in the elderly may be beneficial to improve the survival outcome of patients