bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiosensitivity Enhancement using Triptorelin Conjugated Bismuth Sulfide Nanoparticles (Bi2S3@BSA) in Radiotherapy for Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Choghazardi Yazdan , Azimian Hosein , Abadi Alireza Montazer , Khoshisani Milad Mohammadi , Nezamdoust Fereshteh Vaziri , Gholamhosseinian Hamid
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the radiosensitivity of bismuth sulfide nanoparticles conjugated with a synthetic agonist analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormones in targeted radiotherapy for breast cancer. After synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles, cytotoxicity of nanoparticles was measured by MTT assay, and the survival fraction was determined by colony formation assay. Finally, flow cytometry was performed to identify the mechanism of radiosensitization. Characterization results determined the spherical shape of Bi2S3@BSA with an average size of 8.649 ± 1.6 nm, and Fourier transform infrared confirmed the successful binding of triptorelin to the surface of the nanoparticles. MTT test results show that the Bi2S3@BSA–triptorelin did not cause any toxicity (

P
<
0.05

) even up to 75 μg/ml. At all doses of ionizing radiation, colony formation assays showed that the nontoxic concentration of Bi2S3@BSA–triptorelin significantly increased cell death in MCF-7 cells compared to Bi2S3@BSA (

P
<
0.05

). The apoptosis test also confirmed colony formation assay results at all doses and introduced apoptosis as a mechanism of radiosensitivity produced by nanoparticles. Certainly, targeted bismuth sulfide nanoparticles can be a good candidate for increasing radiosensitivity against tumor cells.
Characterization of Streptomyces Cell Surface by the Microbial Adhesion to Solvents Method
Authors: Zanane C. , Mitro S. , Mazigh D. , Lekchiri S. , Hakim T. , El Louali M. , Latrache H. , Zahir H.
Published: May 2023

The cell surface physicochemical properties of Streptomyces should influencing the dispersal and adsorption of spores and hyphae in soil and should conditioning there interactions with organic or metal substances in the bioremediation of contaminated environment. These properties are concerning surface hydrophobicity, electron donor/acceptor, and charge surface. To date, only hydrophobicity of Streptomyces was studied by contact angle measurements and microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons (MATH). In this work, we studied the electron donor/acceptor character of the Streptomyces cell surface in two ionic strength 10−3 M and 10−1 M of KNO3. Thus, to facilitate the characterisation of the surfaces of microbial cells, we used a simple, rapid, and quantitative technique, the microbial adhesion method to solvents (MATS), which is based on the comparison of the affinity of microbial cells for a monopolar solvent with a polar solvent. The monopolar solvent can be acid (electron acceptor) or basic (electron donor), but both solvents should have a surface tension similar to that of the Kifshitz van der Waals components. At the significant ionic strength of the biological medium, the electron donor character is well expressed for all 14 Streptomyces strains with very significant differences among them ranging from 0% to 72.92%. When the cells were placed in a solution with a higher ionic strength, we were able to classify the donor character results into three categories. The first category is that the weak donor character of strains A53 and A58 became more expressed at 10−1 M KNO3 concentration. The second category is that three strains A30, A60, and A63 expressed a weaker character in a higher ionic strength. For the other strains, no expression of the donor trait was obtained at higher ionic strength. In a suspension with a concentration of 10−3 KNO3, only two strains expressed an electron acceptor character. This character is very important for strains A49, A57, A58, A60, A63, and A65 at 10−1M KNO3. This work has shown that these properties vary greatly depending on the Streptomyces strain. It is important to consider the change in physicochemical properties of surface cells with ionic strength when using Streptomyces in different bioprocesses.
Buṭrus al-Bustānī: Between Secularism and Christianity
Authors: Abu Samra Muhammad
Published: May 2023

The vast majority of studies on Buṭrus al-Bustānī (1819–83), a leading intellectual of the Arab Nahḍa, have focused on his intellectual “transitions” from the Maronite church to Protestantism and then to various secular pursuits, such as fostering a Syrian national identity, the separation of religion and politics, and supporting a political culture based on equal rights and religious ecumenism. The present article contends that the extant literature confers undue precedence to the secular over the religious in Bustānī’s intellectual biography. A balanced portrayal requires giving due weight to his engagement with religious matters, such as: a defense of Protestantism as the sole true faith; the divine character, textual integrity, and veracity of the Bible; and the rejection of Darwinism’s contradiction of aspects of his faith. The study also elucidates his explicit prejudices against Catholicism and Islam that were concomitant with his defense of freedom of conscience and support for revival of classical Arabic culture. The study shows that Bustānī strove to balance his loyalties to multiple intellectual orientations, creating tension within his own thought.
slt s and Education: Social Capital Relations During covid-19 Disruption
Authors: McCartney Elspeth , Forbes Joan
Published: May 2023

During covid-19 lockdown precautions in Scotland, severe disruption occurred to collaborative working amongst speech and language therapists (slt s) and education authorities’ staff meeting the needs of school pupils with language disorders. This was documented in surveys undertaken by the slt UK professional body, and by Scottish child health services’ slt lead practitioners. An slt Scotland officer fed the findings to a national working party updating the Scottish digital health and care strategy, and to other decision makers. The social capital relations involved and developed are here described using Bourdieusian theoretical frameworks, and the cross-sectoral, cross-institutional restabilising commitments, relations and professional agency required to re-establish collaborative working practices are presented and discussed.
Parafuscosporella lignicola sp. nov. (Fuscosporellaceae), from a freshwater habitat in northern Thailand
Authors: LI LU , XU RONG-JU , LUO ZONG-LONG , ZHAO QI , CHEEWANGKOON RATCHADAWAN
Published: May 2023

A survey of lignicolous freshwater fungi in Thailand resulted in the discovery of one new species in Parafuscosporella herein described as Parafuscosporella lignicola. It is characterized by sporodochial colonies, moniliform or ellipsoidal conidiophores, ellipsoidal or cylindrical conidiogenous cells, irregular ellipsoidal and dark brown conidia. Phylogenetic analysis based on the combined LSU, SSU and ITS sequence data support its placement in Parafuscosporella. The species formed distinct clade from the type species and represents as ninth species in Parafuscosporella. The results of the pairwise homoplasy index (PHI) test results revealed no significant genetic recombination (Φw = 1.0) between Parafuscosporella lignicola and the closely related P. lignicola and P. ellipsoconidiogena. A descriptions and illustrations of P. lignicola are provided.
Characteristics of Attempted and Completed Suicides During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Flesher Nathan , Zayat Marisa-Nicole , Ablah Elizabeth , Okut Hayrettin , Lightwine Kelly , Haan James M.
Published: May 2023

Background

This study aimed to describe patients admitted for attempted or completed suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A 1-year retrospective review was performed of adult patients admitted for attempted or completed suicide.

Results

Of the 30 patients included, most injuries involved firearms (37%) and cutting/piercing (30%). Sixty-three percent of patients presented with an Injury Severity Score ≥16, and 37% of injuries involved the head. Upon admission, an alcohol test was completed for 83% of patients, 56% of whom tested positive. Thirty percent of patients died from their injuries, with all but one involving a firearm. Most of those who survived to discharge (62%) were discharged to an inpatient behavioral health facility.

Discussion

The current study indicated a large proportion of suicides during the COVID-19 pandemic involved firearms and alcohol use. These findings point to the need for interventions aimed at preventing suicide and substance abuse during pandemic situations.
Impact of Postoperative Imaging Following Emergency Surgery for Penetrating Ballistic Thoracic Trauma
Authors: Sozzi Marco , Wu Yutung , Matsushima Kazuhide , Schellenberg Morgan , Inaba Kenji , Martin Matthew
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Patients undergoing emergent surgical procedures after penetrating trauma can benefit from postoperative imaging studies to identify potential missed injuries or indications to additional surgery. Aim of this study is to describe postoperative imaging findings in patients who underwent emergent operation for thoracic gunshot wounds (GSWs) and the subsequent need for further surgery, diagnostic evaluations or consults.

Methods

Patients who survived to receive imaging evaluation after emergency surgery for penetrating chest trauma in a level I trauma center between 2017 and 2021 were included. Results of postoperative diagnostic evaluation were screened to determine their impact on the subsequent management.

Results

Overall, 125 patients admitted with a thoracic GSW underwent an emergent surgical procedure and 29 survived to receive postoperative imaging and were included. Postoperative CT-scan was performed in 26 (89.6%) patients, echocardiography in 8 (27.5%). Other tests included esophagoscopy (1) and bronchoscopy (1). Impact on management of abnormal imaging included a new indication to surgery or additional procedures in 7 cases and need for additional imaging or consults in other 8 cases. Bone fractures and lung injuries were more often diagnosed on postoperative CT-scan. In 3 patients, abnormal echocardiographic findings led to a second cardiac operation.

Conclusion

Following emergency surgery for penetrating trauma, completion of injury assessment with CT-scan can lead to identification of missed or additional injuries, while other imaging is indicated according to operative findings. In this study, 24.1% had additional surgical pathology identified by postoperative imaging while others had findings requiring additional studies or specialist consult evaluations.
Leone Traverso traduttore e interprete del Torquato Tasso di Goethe
Authors: Menicacci Marco
Published: May 2023

La traduzione del Torquato Tasso di Goethe rappresenta un fondamentale punto di svolta nell’attività del germanista e grecista Leone Traverso: dopo aver fatto chiarezza sulla cronologia di tale impresa e aver discusso le riflessioni storico-critiche che l’hanno accompagnata, si passa ad analizzarne alcuni passaggi per mostrarne originalità, efficacia e scelte metrico-stilistiche. Anche attraverso un confronto con la ben più recente traduzione di Cesare Lievi, si mettono poi in luce finalità teorico-critiche, metodi e risultati del lavoro di Leone Traverso, inserendolo nel più ampio orizzonte culturale del cosiddetto “ermetismo fiorentino”.
Complicated Grief Following the Traumatic Loss of a Child: A Systematic Review
Authors: Champion Monique Jayde , Kilcullen Meegan
Published: May 2023

Complicated grief is a disabling condition that occurs when the natural grief process is disturbed or prolonged. Research demonstrates that complicated grief is more prevalent following the sudden or violent loss of a child. Despite the high incidence of accidental death worldwide, little research has focused on parental grief trajectories following this form of traumatic loss. A systematic review was conducted to explore parental bereavement outcomes following accidental death. Studies were included if they specifically examined complicated grief in parents bereaved by the accidental death of their child. A total of 767 articles were identified and seven studies met the eligibility criteria for review. Poorer outcomes were identified in relation to the mode of death, relationship type, time post-loss, perceived support, perceived justice and comorbidities. Results of the current study may be used to inform the development of clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of complicated grief.
Inseparable Bedfellows: Imagination and Mathematics in Economic Modeling
Authors: Salis Fiora , Leng Mary
Published: May 2023

In this paper we explore the hypothesis that constrained uses of imagination are crucial to economic modeling. We propose a theoretical framework to develop this thesis through a number of specific hypotheses that we test and refine through six new, representative case studies. Our ultimate goal is to develop a philosophical account that is practice oriented and informed by empirical evidence. To do this, we deploy an abductive reasoning strategy. We start from a robust set of hypotheses and leave space for the generation of further hypotheses and theoretical claims based on the qualitative analysis of new empirical data.
The Russian Occupation of Melitopol, Ukraine
Authors: Bukrieieva Iryna , Afanasieva Lyudmila
Published: May 2023

Since February 24, 2022, Ukraine has defended not only its sovereign territory, national identity, and democratic values but international law and the security of Europe. Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine disregards moral and legal norms of warfare. The army of any state reflects the moral, legal, technological, and intellectual caliber of its society. By now, most of the world has seen that the so-called “second best army of the world” is composed largely of poorly trained draftees, mercenaries, criminals, looters, rapists, and thieves who have violated all of the tenants of the international laws of war,1 in particular, the Geneva and Hague Conventions on the Laws of Land War.
A systematic review examining the effect of vitamin D supplementation on functional outcomes post-stroke
Authors: Fleet Jamie L , McIntyre Amanda , Janzen Shannon , Saikaley Marcus , Qaqish Michael , Cianfarani Robert , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: May 2023

Objective

The objective of this systematic review was to explore the effect of vitamin D supplementation on functional outcomes (motor function, mobility, activities of daily living and stroke impairment) among individuals post-stroke (PROSPERO CRD42022296462).

Data Sources

MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL were searched for all articles published up to March 5, 2023.

Methods

Only interventional studies assessing vitamin D supplementation compared to placebo or usual care in adult stroke patients were selected. After duplicate removal, 2912 studies were screened by two independent reviewers. A total of 43 studies underwent full text review; 10 studies met inclusion criteria (8 randomized controlled trials and 2 non-randomized studies of intervention). Data were extracted by two independent reviewers using Covidence software. Motor function (Brunnstrom Recovery Stage, Berg Balance Score), mobility (Functional Ambulation Category), activities of daily living (Barthel Index, Functional Independence Measure) and stroke impairment (modified Rankin Scale, National Institutes for Health Stroke Severity, Scandinavian Stroke Severity) were the outcome measures of interest reported in the included studies.

Results

In total, 691 patients were studied for which 11 of 13 outcome measures showed improvement with vitamin D supplementation.

Conclusions

The majority of studies showed a statistical improvement in motor function, mobility, and stroke impairment with vitamin D supplementation; however, the evidence did not support an improvement in activities of daily living with treatment. Despite this, there may not be clinical significance. Strong, methodologically sound, randomized controlled trials are required to verify these findings.
Actin reorganization in hippocampal neurons may play a role in early learning and memory impairment after propofol anesthesia in rats
Authors: Zhang Xuena , Li Jie
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To observe changes in actin and dendritic spines in the hippocampus after propofol anesthesia, and to evaluate the role of these changes in subsequent learning impairment in both young (3-month-old) and aged (20-month-old) male rats.

Methods

The shuttle box test was used to evaluate learning from 1, 3, 7, or 14 days after anesthesia. Both F-actin content and dendritic spines in the hippocampal CA1 region were observed using immunofluorescent staining and western blot assays.

Results

The latency of the escape response was significantly prolonged until 7 days after anesthesia in the aged rats, and their learning curves were shifted. Dendritic spines were also decreased in the aged rats within 7 days after anesthesia, and F-actin content was significantly increased until 14 days after anesthesia.

Conclusions

Learning was inhibited after propofol anesthesia, especially in aged rats. The over-polymerization of actin and subsequent reorganization of dendritic spines in the hippocampus may be responsible for this learning impairment. Our findings suggest that synaptic plasticity may be an underlying mechanism of perioperative neurocognitive disorders.
Exit, Voice, and Gender
Authors: Brubaker Rogers
Published: May 2023

Albert Hirschman’s exit-voice paradigm provides a useful lens for analyzing the current neo-categorical phase of gender politics in which attention has shifted from the content of the binary gender categories to the structure of the gender category system. During this phase of categorical destabilization, exit from originally assigned categories—in bureaucratically recorded, statistically reported, and informally negotiated forms—has become culturally legitimate and institutionally supported in a broadening range of milieus. Hirschman’s paradigm brings into focus the selectivity of exit and its potentially—and paradoxically—stabilizing consequences for the traditional gender order. The increased ease and pronounced selectivity of exit can channel dissatisfaction with gender arrangements into exit rather than voice or—as exit may itself be a form of voice—into individualized, psychologically driven forms of voice. And the selective exit of gender-nonconforming individuals from originally assigned categories can reinforce the stereotypical associations of these categories with gender conformity.
Understanding aspirations among Muslim youth in India through Sequential mixed-methods design
Authors: Salman Aashti
Published: May 2023

This article is a note on the research methods employed during the author’s doctoral research on the topic of aspirations and social mobility in north-India. Looking into the question of employment based aspirations of youth from the minority Muslim community in Delhi, the article employs a mixed-methods approach. The research relies on an older qualitative work by the author in a segregated area in Delhi, on the same themes, to inform the questions of a quantitative study, based on the survey method. The results of the survey are enriched by adding depth and nuance through a follow up qualitative round, employing the life-history method. This article uses the concept ‘frustrated freedom’ developed in the context of Mozambique and Guatemala to analyse the results obtained from the mixed- methods design. The article argues that while aspirations and claims for upward mobility (or agency) of Muslim youth are high, despite consistent socio-economic and political marginalization of the community in India, their ability to achieve these aspirations remains low. This is primarily due to the limited opportunity structures available for them, particularly for the youth living in segregated spaces in Delhi.
Monitoring of friction stirred spot weld quality for dissimilar Al6061 to polycarbonate using tool assisted thrust-torque signatures
Authors: Pattanaik Ajit K , Nayak Lalita P , Bisoyi Raj K , Pal Kamal , Mishra Debadatta
Published: May 2023

Friction stir processing procedures are often found to be an alternative choice for the joining of thermoplastic polymers without melting the base materials. In recent years, dissimilar metallic to thermoplastic assemblies are highly used in aerospace and automotive industries as mechanical fastener or fusion welding techniques are rather inadequate for extreme discrepancy in thermal properties. The present work addresses the feasibility of friction stirred spot welding for non-ferrous aluminium (Al 6061) to polycarbonate using taper cylindrical tool of hardened H13 steel along with machine integrated axial thrust and stirring torque signals. The real-time positional and axial velocity of the rotating tool has been acquired to distinguish between plunging and dwelling stage. The process stability that is, the deviation of thrust-torque in respective phases was processed. The interaction of plunge depth and dwell time on tool pin assisted keyhole with associated material expulsion for different tool revolving speed was established. The weld mechanical behaviour has been scanned using load versus elongation diagram with associated weld pair interface. Lastly, sensors’ based process monitoring extended to weld quality prediction have been made using various significant features of thrust-torque-velocity based approaches. The tool spinning speed followed by dwell time was found to be important on weld quality index. The joint efficiency was significantly upgraded (more than 60%) at intermediate dwell time (40 s) with low tool plunging (0.3 mm) or reversed parametric setting at high tool revolving speed (2500 rpm) due to substantial reduction in axial thrust with higher stirring torque. The local deviation in thrust-torque during plunging was equally responsible with global mean thrust-torque in dwelling to dictate the joint strength and the weld ductility. The material stirring torque was better indicator of weld shear strength while pin assisted slot size highly correlated with tool thrust though tool plunging speed was highly crucial.
Ethics positions of nursing students in clinical decision-making
Authors: Turan Nazan , Çekiç Yasemin
Published: May 2023

Background

Ethics positions, consisting of the two fundamental dimensions of idealism and relativism, influence individuals’ decision-making significantly. Particularly in an applied field such as nursing, the ethics positions of nurses can play a significant role in clinical decisions. Therefore, it is important to know the factors affecting the ethics positions of nurses in clinical decision-making.

Aim

The aim of the study is to examine the factors affecting the ethics positions of nursing students in clinical decision-making.

Research design

This is a two-phase sequential explanatory mixed methods study designed in accordance with the COREQ criteria. A participant Information Form and the Ethics Position Questionnaire were used to collect quantitative data. Qualitative data were obtained through focus group interviews.

Ethical considerations

This study was conducted after receiving written permission from X University Ethics Board. Additionally, permission was obtained from the participating nursing faculty.

Participants

Among the fourth-year nursing students, 180 students participated in the quantitative phase and 30 students in the qualitative phase of the study.

Results

The quantitative data analysis showed that the idealism sub-dimension mean scores of the participants were higher than the relativism sub-dimension mean scores. The analysis of the qualitative data resulted in four main themes that influence participants’ ethics positions in clinical decision-making: (1) attitudes of role models in clinical practice (staff nurses/mentors/lecturers), (2) resources related to clinical practice (labs, hospitals/classrooms), (3) health system (hospital policies/school policies), and (4) personal differences (act with emotion/act with logic).

Conclusion

The results showed that the health system, role models in the clinic, personal differences, and skill-related resources affect the ethics positions of nursing students in clinical decision-making. In this regard, awareness can be raised by providing training to nursing students by academic instructors on ethics positions and the factors that are determined to affect ethics positions in clinical decision-making.
Pediatric Acute Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Presenting with Atypical Eating Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Biswas Tathagata , Sinha Ankit , Abhijita Bandita , Mishra Shree , Padhy Susanta Kumar
Published: May 2023

Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) is defined by abrupt emergence of obsessive–compulsive behaviours and/or food restriction with concurrent cognitive and behavioural symptoms. Symptoms of obsessive–compulsive disorder and eating disorder frequently overlap in such cases, clouding diagnostic certainty and hypothesized etiologic factors. This case illustrates an atypical eating disorder presentation, resulting from PANS wherein a meticulous ruling out of organic causes andtimely institution of specific serotonin reuptake inhibitor facilitated remission. Through this case report the authors highlight the need of awareness of other medical practitioners regarding the symptomatology and presentation of PANS so as to facilitate early intervention in a collaborative approach.
Previous Experience in Medical Decision Making and Advance Care Planning Conversations: Findings From a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Zhang Peiyuan , Cagle John G.
Published: May 2023

Background: Despite the extensive literature on facilitating advance care planning (ACP) with patients with serious illnesses, opportunities to include surrogates or family caregivers are overlooked. The research objective was to examine whether previous medical decision-making involvement for a loved one is associated with one’s own ACP conversations with family and the potential mediating effect of knowledge of a loved one’s end-of-life treatment preferences. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design using data from the 2016 Kaiser Family Foundation/The Economist Four-Country Survey on Aging and End-of-Life Medical Care. The sample included 627 US adults who completed the survey and were involved in making medical decisions for a loved one in the past. Multiple binary logistic regression and linear regression models were established for mediation analyses. Results: Participants in our nationally derived sample were largely confident in their knowledge of a deceased loved one’s end-of-life treatment preferences. 66.8% of the sample had ACP conversations with family. The involvement in a loved one’s medical decision making was significantly associated with higher odds of having ACP conversations with family (OR = 1.93, P = .01), but this relationship was significantly mediated by knowledge of one’s end-of-life treatment preferences ( b = .31, Boot CI = .12-.49). Conclusions: Previous experience in making medical decisions for a loved one may facilitate one’s own ACP behavior through knowing a loved one’s end-of-life treatment preferences. Clinicians in end-of-life settings are uniquely positioned to engage family members who were involved in medical decision-making for others before in ACP.
A WAP-Based Concept Acquisition Teaching Model in Cleft Lip and Palate Phenotype and Embryonic Development: Functionality and Usability Study
Authors: Yang Jiegang , Li Jian , Qin Chuanqi , Fu Xiazhou
Published: May 2023

Objective

Taking advantage of the broad coverage of Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), we developed a Content Management System (CMS)-programmed mobile learning application. This application can help the undergraduate to obtain a comprehensive understanding of concepts in Cleft lip and palate Phenotype, and Embryonic development (CPE). The present study aims to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the concept acquisition teaching model on the basis of WAP in a practical undergraduate course of CPE.

Design

The concept acquisition teaching model based on WAP was programmed by CMS, covering definitions of various cleft lip and palate, the mechanisms underlying the phenotypes, practical medical cases, as well as corresponding tests after learning.

Setting

The CPE concept acquisition teaching model was distributed to a total of 524 undergraduate students and 46 tutors participated in CPE teaching from seven highly ranked schools of stomatology in China since April 2022.

Participants

524 undergraduate students and 46 tutors from seven highly ranked schools of stomatology in China.

Interventions

The CPE concept acquisition teaching model.

Main outcome measures

The effectiveness of the CPE teaching model.

Results

The response rate to the survey was 100%. The grading of the questionnaires indicated that the students were satisfied with the usability, practicality, and outcome, whereas the tutors were more positive with the contents, cooperation, and outcome.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of the WAP-based concept acquisition teaching model of CPE and a high level of satisfaction among undergraduate students and tutors who major in Stomatology.
Disrupting Patriarchal Illusio to Reduce Violence Against Women and Girls
Authors: Mackenzie Catherine , Louth Jonathon
Published: May 2023

We apply a Bourdieusian lens to understand the reproduction of a patriarchal illusio that works to maintain violence-supportive attitudes and concurrent low levels of support for gender equality among young people. We analyze interview and focus group data collected with young women and men and conclude that we must disrupt the reproduction of patriarchal norms by: recognizing the intentional operation of backlash by men's rights activist groups that undermine attempts to transform society; ensuring girls’ and women's safety on new technologies to reduce their exposure to sexism and violence; and introducing prevention early to disrupt misogynist social norms being internalized.
A Mixed-Methods Examination of Language Used by College Students to Describe Alcohol Recovery
Authors: Montes Kevin S. , Dela Cruz Margott , Vink Limor H. , Jaime Saray V. , Almeida Bryan J. , Aguiluz Denise Y. , Arca Diorlene , Smith Alicia M. , Kapila-Ramirez Anita , Figueroa-Sierra Nicole C. , Infante Gabriel
Published: May 2023

Given that approximately 5% of the U.S. population is currently attending college, research is needed to better understand the language that college students use to describe alcohol recovery regardless of their current drinking behavior. College student perceptions of alcohol recovery are important, given that students may experience an alcohol use disorder themselves or may encounter others with an alcohol use disorder. Research on college student perceptions of alcohol recovery in the literature is scarce but is needed to better understand the alcohol recovery process. The current mixed-methods study examines language that college students use to describe alcohol recovery based on findings from two focus group interviews. The focus groups were conducted with college students who reported using alcohol at least once in their lifetime. All participants ( N = 18) were asked questions regarding language perceived to be associated with alcohol recovery. Data were examined within a thematic analysis framework. The three central themes related to alcohol recovery that emerged in the study were harm reduction–based recovery, abstinence-based recovery, and social correlates of recovery. College students rated the terms “recovered,” “drinking reduction,” and “sobriety” as being highly representative of being in recovery, whereas the terms “bars” and “light drinker” were identified as not being representative of recovery. A better understanding of these themes will help the field understand the language that college students use to describe alcohol recovery.
Study protocol of a prospective single-arm multicenter clinical study to assess the safety and performance of the aXess hemodialysis graft: The pivotal study
Authors: De Vriese An S , D’Haeninck Annick , Mendes Artur , Ministro Augusto , Krievins Dainis , Kingsmore David , Mestres Gaspar , Villanueva Gonzalo , Rodrigues Hugo , Turek Jakub , Zieliński Maciej , De Letter Jan , Coelho Andreia , Loureiro Luís Alvarenga , Tozzi Matteo , Menegolo Mirko , Alija Palma Fariñas , Theodoridis Panagiotis G , Gibbs Paul , Ebrahimi Reze , Nauwelaers Sigi , Kakkos Stavros K , Matoussevitch Vladimir , Moll Frans , Gargiulo Mauro
Published: May 2023

Background:

Arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are used for patients deemed unsuitable for the creation of an autogenous arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or unable to await maturation of the AVF before starting hemodialysis. However, AVGs are prone to infection and thrombosis resulting in low long-term patency rates. The novel aXess Hemodialysis Graft consists of porous polymeric biomaterial allowing the infiltration by cells and the growth of neotissue, while the graft itself is gradually absorbed, ultimately resulting in a fully functional natural blood vessel. The Pivotal Study will examine the long-term effectiveness and safety of the aXess Hemodialysis Graft.

Methods:

The Pivotal Study is a prospective, single-arm, multicenter study that will be conducted in 110 subjects with end-stage renal disease who are not deemed suitable for the creation of an autogenous vascular access. The primary efficacy endpoint will be the primary patency rate at 6 months. The primary safety endpoint will be the freedom from device-related serious adverse events at 6 months. The secondary endpoints will include the procedural success rate, time to first cannulation, patency rates, the rate of access-related interventions to maintain patency, the freedom from device-related serious adverse events and the rate of access site infections. Patients will be followed for 60 months. An exploratory Health Economic and Outcomes Research sub-study will determine potential additional benefits of the aXess graft to patients, health care institutions, and reimbursement programs.

Discussion:

The Pivotal study will examine the long-term performance and safety of the aXess Hemodialysis Graft and compare the outcome measures with historical data obtained with other graft types and autogenous AVFs. Potential advantages may include superior long-term patency rates and lower infection rates versus currently available AVGs and a shorter time to first cannulation compared to an autologous AVF. As such, the aXess Hemodialysis Graft may fulfill an unmet clinical need in the field of hemodialysis access.
Effects of porosity distribution and piezoelectric layers on natural frequencies and unsteady aerodynamic pressure of smart thick porous plates
Authors: Bahaadini Reza , Javaheri Mojtaba , Majidi-Mozafari Kazem , Azimi-Nejad Mohammad
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the effects of porosity distribution and piezoelectric layers on the natural frequencies and flutter aerodynamic pressure of smart thick porous plates in supersonic airflow are studied. Based on the third-order shear deformation plate theory and first-order piston theory, thick functionally graded porous plates embedded by piezoelectric layers are investigated. The effective porous material properties, such as Young’s modulus and mass density are considered to vary along the thickness direction. The aeroelastic governing equations of motion are obtained using Hamilton’s principle and Maxwell’s equation. By applying Galerkin’s approach, the partial differential governing equations are transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations. The results indicate that the unsteady aerodynamic pressure and natural frequencies decrease as the porosity coefficient increases. Furthermore, the symmetric porosity distribution predicts the highest unsteady aerodynamic pressure and natural frequencies for porous plates. Besides, the results show that the porous plate enclosed by piezoelectric layers in open circuit condition has higher flutter aerodynamic pressure and natural frequencies than the similar plate in closed circuit condition.
Labouring the news: Management control strategies and work intensification in the digital newsroom
Authors: Hayes Kathryn , O' Sullivan Michelle
Published: May 2023

Using a labour process lens, this research focuses on the structured antagonism that characterises the employment relationship. This article seeks to further our understanding of how news organisations employ control strategies to extract the labour power of journalists and achieve organisational objectives, and we pay particular attention to the role of editors in this regard. We also explore the responses of journalists as workers to managerial control which can include accommodation, resistance, compliance, or consent. The findings are based on an empirical case study of a local newspaper incorporating interviews with editors and journalists. The case study reveals how journalists’ work intensified with the turn to digital content, and because of reduced staffing since COVID-19, but editors ensured high levels of productivity through distribution of digital analytics and constant monitoring.
Such tiny signs on a piece of paper. Engagement with language and literacy in a multilingual preschool class
Authors: Laursen Helle Pia , Daugaard Line Møller
Published: May 2023

Drawing on recent literacy research that foregrounds affect and space, we trace the creation of an early literacy learning space as it emerges through a group conversation between a preschool class teacher and five multilingual children at age 5–6. Our analysis is driven by a fascination of the bodily intensity and emotional energies that arose during the activity, in which the children were to tell each other about a card on which they had drawn a king and asked their parents to write the word ‘king’ in the languages spoken at home. In this article, we ask how such small signs on a piece of paper can have such a big appeal to children and pave the way for a lot of metalanguaging. Our analysis points to a need for an expansion of a common gaze at the sign that goes beyond its communicative and referential meaning and directs attention to its aesthetic and subjective appeal as well as its intersubjective potential. Such a perspective pushes us to deepen our understanding of early literacy, acknowledging children’s affective and reflective paths leading to literacy. It also prompts us to broaden the scope of ‘the metalinguistic’ to embrace the ways it is shaped in interaction and contributes to shared experiences and involvements.
Factors That Help and Hinder the Implementation of Community-Wide Behavior Change Programs
Authors: Harris Marc , Crone Diane , Hughes Samantha
Published: May 2023

Novel community-wide approaches that gamify physical activity through challenges and competition have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, little is known about the factors that help or hinder their implementation. This qualitative study aimed to address this gap in the literature by systematically investigating the facilitators (organizational and experiential) and barriers to successful implementation of a community-wide intervention delivered in Gloucester, the United Kingdom. A two-phased process evaluation was conducted. Phase 1 involved the thematical analysis of open question feedback from n = 289 adults. Phase 2 included three focus groups conducted with n = 12 participants. This research showed that promoting the initiative through primary education settings was fundamental to enhancing awareness and participation. Social elements of the intervention were identified as a motivating factor for, and a consequential outcome of, participation. A lack of promotion to wider-reaching proportions of the community was perceived to be a significant barrier to implementation, potentially limiting inclusivity and participation in the activity. Game dynamics, timing, and fears regarding sustainability represented further difficulties to implementation.
A First Step in Understanding Influences on System-Involved Women’s Changes in Financial Need
Authors: Sanders Kaelyn , Hoskins Kayla , Morash Merry
Published: May 2023

Financial need strongly predicts women’s recidivism. However, little is known about influences on change in system-involved women’s financial need. Qualitative data from women with significant increases and decreases in financial need show the importance of tailored assistance finding jobs to improve financial status, and the relevance of worsening physical health and limited access to safety-net benefits to increasing financial need. Prior convictions act as a barrier to employment especially for Black women, and younger women most often associated financial problems with lack of mental health care. Gender, race, and age responsive assistance is needed to improve system-involved women’s financial standing.
The effects of upper limb exercise training on upper limb muscle strength in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Karagiannis Christos , Savva Christos , Korakakis Vasileios , Ploutarchou George , Adamide Tonia , Georgiou Andreas , Xanthos Theodoros
Published: May 2023

Background:

Upper limb (UL) muscle dysfunction is a common extrapulmonary manifestation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). UL muscle dysfunction is associated with muscle weakness, dyspnea, and exercise intolerance. Although upper limb exercise training (ULET) is typically incorporated in pulmonary rehabilitation programs, its effects on UL muscle strength remains unclear.

Objectives:

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the effectiveness of ULET, in UL muscle strength of people with COPD.

Design:

This is systematic review and meta-analysis study.

Data Sources and Methods:

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) Protocols 2020 guidelines were used for this study. PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL Plus and SPORTDiscus and clinicaltrials.gov registry were searched from inception to July 2022. Included studies were randomized controlled trials, assessing the effectiveness in muscle strength of ULET, compared with other types of upper or lower limb exercise or no exercise. The quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale and certainty of evidence with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach. Treatment effects of ULET were calculated using standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

Twenty-four studies, with a total sample of 882 patients, were included. Most studies were of moderate quality and high risk of bias. Very low to low certainty evidence indicates a significant difference in UL muscle strength in favor of resistance ULET, compared with lower limb exercise alone or no exercise. No significant differences were found in different types of ULET comparisons.

Conclusion:

The results of this review showed that resistance ULET could improve UL muscle strength in people with COPD. Most studies, however, were of moderate quality and high risk of bias. Further studies with larger sample sizes, better methodological quality, and standardized training protocols are needed to confirm these findings.
Exercise and heart disease
Authors: Gardner Nick , Beck Christopher
Published: May 2023

Physical inactivity is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. National guidance for physical activity is widely available in the UK, but many GPs are unaware of its existence, or are uncomfortable discussing the topic with patients. This article intends to provide information on safely prescribing exercise, with particular attention paid to adults at risk of developing heart disease or with established heart disease.
Systematic Review on Environmental Design for Adaptive and Problem Behaviors of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Ellis Natalie , Yi Ye Ji
Published: May 2023

Objectives:

The presented systematic review explores the empirical studies regarding environmental design strategies that support adaptive behaviors while improving problem behaviors of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Background:

People with IDD perceive and interact with their environment differently from people without disabilities. Design research has not always considered these differences, and environmental design solutions are not commonly found.

Methods:

The review process followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocols. The study reports the findings from the systematic review of 32 peer-reviewed studies published in EBSCO, ERIC, ProQuest, PsycINFO, MEDLINE CINAHL, Consumer Health Complete (EBSCOhost), and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection between 1990 and 2020. In addition, quality assessment tools appraised the study’s quality.

Results:

The review identified 26 design strategies. Five themes qualitatively organized these environmental attributes: coherence, affordance, control, stimulation, and restoration.

Conclusion:

The evidence indicates that adequately designed physical environments can support the adaptive behaviors of people with IDD while alleviating behavioral problems. Design features not supported by strong empirical evidence should be further addressed in future studies.
On the intersection of geographical thought and artistic practice: DIY urbanism, flow, and imagining urban futures
Authors: Boswell Rachael
Published: May 2023

In this commentary, I explore what an artists’ process offers to city-making: how urban experimentation can open up hopeful, surprising, and imaginative urban encounters and futures. By doing so, I imagine a future for geographical thought and praxis lying partly in the interesting places where they overlap with artistic practice. I ground this thinking on the unstable surface found in the years immediately following the 2010–11 earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was into a wasteland of post-earthquake demolition that ‘ordinary citizens’ started to insert creative interventions (known in the literature as do-it-yourself, or DIY, urbanism). I explore how an understanding of creative ‘flow’ helped me untangle what was particular and unique about the uprising of DIY urbanism in post-earthquake Christchurch. From the ‘doing’ of creative practitioners in the city during this time emerged a different and new energy: an imaginative, hopeful, open-ended feeling of the possibilities hidden behind the facade of grey rubble. In particular, I examine how existing work in the geohumanities around hope and temporalities resonates with DIY urbanism and consider what artistic practices may have to offer geographical thought and praxis.