bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Cycloporus from the Adriatic Sea, with an updated phylogeny of the families Euryleptidae and Stylostomidae (Polycladida, Platyhelminthes)
Authors: DITTMANN ISABEL L. , GROSBUSCH ALEXANDRA L. , BERTEMES PHILIP , EGGER BERNHARD
Published: July 2023

We describe Cycloporus pinkipus sp. n., a new polyclad flatworm species from the Adriatic coast of Croatia using live images, histological sections, and a molecular marker. It is the fifteenth described species of Cycloporus Lang, 1884 and the second described congener in the Mediterranean. The genus Cycloporus is characterised by a small oval body, tentacular bumps and the name-giving marginal pores. Cycloporus pinkipus sp. n. has a smooth dorsal surface, which is transparent creamy white with light brown to yellow spots, covered with prominent serial pink spots on the inner rim of the body margin. There is little variation of the genital organs between different species of the genus, therefore we recognise C. pinkipus sp. n. as a new species in particular due to its unique coloration, and a unique partial large nuclear ribosomal subunit (28S) sequence. In recent years the family Euryleptidae Stimpson, 1857, which also contains the genus Cycloporus, was discussed and revised in several molecular studies. In an updated molecular phylogeny of the Polycladida based on partial 18S and 28S rDNA marker genes, C. pinkipus sp. n. was recovered in a clade of many other Cycloporus species within Euryleptidae.
Two new species of semiaquatic Anolis (Squamata: Dactyloidae) from Costa Rica
Authors: CHAVES GERARDO , RYAN MASON J. , BOLAÑOS FEDERICO , MÁRQUEZ CRUZ , KÖHLER GUNTHER , POE STEVEN
Published: July 2023

We describe two new species of Draconura-clade semiaquatic anoles from the central Pacific versant of Costa Rica. The two new species are similar to Anolis aquaticus in external appearance and ecology but differ from this species in male dewlap coloration and scalation. Anolis robinsoni sp. nov. and A. riparius sp. nov. differ from each other mainly in male dewlap color. All three species are distinct according to diagnostic morphological traits and a phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences (669 bases of COI gene). We discuss the distribution and ecology of Anolis aquaticus and the new species.
Retrospective Study of EMS Scene Times and Mortality in Penetrating Trauma Patients: Improving Transport Standards and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Breeding Tessa , Rosander Abigail , Abella Maveric , Martinez Brian , Maka Piueti , Elkbuli Adel
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to determine the impact of emergency medical service (EMS) scene time variability on adult and pediatric trauma patient outcomes with moderate or severe penetrating injuries.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database between 2017 and 2020 to evaluate the relationship between EMS scene time on adult and pediatric patients with moderate to severe injuries. Primary outcomes included Dead on Arrival (DOA) to the Emergency Department (ED), ED mortality, 24-hour mortality, and in-hospital mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association of each EMS scene time category and mortality.

Results

Adult patients with 10-30 minutes of EMS scene time had increased odds of experiencing ED mortality, 24-hour mortality, and in-hospital mortality. Adults with >30 minutes of EMS scene time were more likely to be DOA to the ED. There was no significant association with mortality for patients with <10 minutes of EMS scene time. In the pediatric subset of patients, those with 10-30 minutes of EMS scene time were more likely to experience ED mortality and in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion

EMS scene times less than 10 minutes were associated with the greatest odds of survival, supporting the “load and go” theory for penetrating trauma. Our study suggests that even an EMS scene time of 10-30 minutes results in a significantly increased risk of mortality, and further efforts are needed to improve scene time through improved EMS and hospital policies.
Investigation of Motor Activity, Movement Kinematics and Forward-Backwards Gait in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Özden Fatih , Uysal İsmail , Tümtürk İsmet , Özkeskin Mehmet
Published: July 2023

Our aim in this study was to examine relationships between the motor activity ability, sensor-based kinematics and forward-backwards gait characteristics of children with cerebral palsy (CP). In this prospective cross-sectional study we studied 40 children with CP. We used the Pediatric Motor Activity Log Revised (PMAL-R) to assess motor activity, evaluated motion kinematics (acceleration and angular velocity) with a sensor-based application, applied the Edinburgh Visual Gait Score (EVGS) and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) to observe gait performance, and used the Three Meter Backward Walk Test (3MBWT) to assess backward gait. We found moderately positive significant correlations (r1 = 0.416, r2 = 0.418, p < 0.05) between the chilidren's minimum angular velocity on PMAL-R motor activity frequency (how often) and quality (how well) scores, respectively. We also found moderately negative significant correlations (r1 = −0.529, r2 = −0.521, p < 0.05) between PMAL-R frequency (how often) and quality (how well) scores with TUG, respectively. There were moderately high positive correlations (r1 = 0.415, r2 = 0.726, p < 0.05) between EVGS scores and 3MBWT and TUG scores, respectively. We concluded that angular velocity ability was moderately related to children’s motor activity and showed that physical performance tests (TUG and 3MBWT) could monitor gait function and upper extremity motor activity level, including both forward and backward walking tasks, in children with CP.
The Justice Argument Against Catholic Integralism
Authors: Vallier Kevin
Published: July 2023

Catholic integralism claims that governments must secure the earthly and heavenly common good. God authorizes two powers to do so. The state governs in matters temporal, the Catholic Church in matters spiritual. Since the church has the nobler end of salvation, it may direct the state to help enforce church law. The integralist adopts two seemingly conflicting norms of justice: (a) coercion into the faith is always unjust, but (b) coercion to keep the faith is just. But if religious coercion is wrong at the start of the Christian life, why is it permitted after that? The integralist answer is baptism. Baptism serves as a normative transformer: it transforms religious coercion from unjust to just. My thesis is that baptism fails as a normative transformer. I critique Thomas Aquinas’ approach to this question and then adapt gratitude, associative, and natural duty theories of political obligation to repair his argument. These strategies fail.
Cross-Sectional and Prospective Relationships Between Neuroticism and Depressive Symptoms Among College Students: The Mediating Role of Loneliness
Authors: Yu Bin , Liu Yuanlin , Li Yujin , Wu Qi
Published: July 2023

High levels of neuroticism are associated with an increased risk of depression. The mechanisms for this association are still unclear. This study investigated loneliness, a pervasive negative human emotion linked to depressive symptoms, as a potential mediator. Data were collected from 739 college students (71.6% females; mean age = 18.47, SD = .87) at two times points through 3 years. Self-report questionnaires were administered to assess neuroticism, loneliness, and depressive symptoms. Cross-sectional analyses of the baseline data suggested that loneliness mediates the association between neuroticism and depressive symptoms. Prospective analyses with two-wave data further prove that baseline neuroticism can predict the changes in depressive symptoms, and changes in loneliness sequentially mediated this association. These findings suggest a possibility of developing interventions for loneliness to interrupt the association between neuroticism and poorer mental health outcomes among college students.
The reactionary internationale: the rise of the new right and the reconstruction of international society
Authors: Michelsen Nicholas , De Orellana Pablo , Costa Buranelli Filippo
Published: July 2023

New Right actors are vocally seeking to change key international relations practices and institutions. We enquire how their philosophy of the international, which we call Reactionary Internationalism, is being socialised by a diverse group of international actors. Engaging with English School conceptualisations of international society and deploying discursive analysis of diplomatic positions, we examine the diplomacy of New Right actors and sympathisers on issues of rights and the limits of sovereign power. Through this empirical analysis it is demonstrated that opportunistic alliances between New Right politicians in democratic states, and authoritarian states such as China, are solidifying into an international compact that advocates radical normative change in international relations. This programme is centred on a new constitutive principle (birth-cultural sovereignty) and two new institutions (exclusive spheres of competence and transactionalism), that establish the terms of reference for a reactionary international society.
Investigation of mechanical properties and microstructural analysis of polymeric waste strengthened hybrid composites
Authors: Perumal Kaliyappan , Mani Dhananchezian
Published: July 2023

In this work, investigated the mechanical properties and microstructure of Ground Tyre Rubber (GTR) i.e. polymeric waste blended with Natural Rubber (NR), Butadiene Rubber (BR), and Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) composites. A two-roll mill and hydraulic press were used to create NR (70 parts per hundred of rubber (phr)) composites with 25 phr of BR and 5 phr of SBR and various proportions of GTR (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 phr). With the incorporation of Nylon 6 (Ny 6) at 5 phr, the interfacial adhesion of NR/BR/SBR composites was improved. NR-based hybrid composites with mechanical and curing properties were enhanced and compared with pure NR. It was noted that the maximum tensile strength, tear strength, and hardness were enhanced by 77.74%, 17.9%, and 36.4% in NR/BR/SBR/GTR (70/25/5/40) over pure NR. The elongation at break was decreased by 54.55%, while young’s modulus was enhanced in NR/BR/SBR/GTR (70/25/5/40) over pure NR. With the incorporation of 40 phr of GTR in the NR/BR/SBR composites, cure properties like scorch time (tS2) and cure time (tC90) were reduced by 53.97% and 65.71%, while the minimum torque (ML) and maximum torque (MH) were enriched by 13.35% and 12%, respectively, when compared with the pure NR. Based on the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), GTR particles were uniformly distributed, and the thermal stability was enhanced by 25.40% in NR/BR/SBR/GTR (70/25/5/40) composites over pure NR. The absorption bands of NR, BR, SBR, and GTR elements in the developed hybrid composite were identified by Fourier transform infrared. The glass transition temperature (Tg) was diminished from -58.17°C to -63.42°C. With the inclusion of 40 phr of GTR in the NR/BR/SBR composite. Finally, it was recommended that the incorporation of 40 phr of GTR is suitable for NR/BR/SBR composites.
Correlates of Psychological Distress Among African American Young Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Miller-Roenigk Brittany D. , Jester Jasmine K. , Stevens-Watkins Danelle J. , Francis Diane B.
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affects African Americans in the United States, including disparate rates of mortality and higher mental health consequences compared to Whites. However, African American young adults are underrepresented in the literature examining psychological distress (i.e., anxiety and depression) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors associated with psychological distress are important to examine among African American young adults during the pandemic to better inform culturally appropriate mental health interventions during times of increased uncertainty and isolation. The present study, grounded in the transactional theory of stress and coping, was a secondary analysis of 420 African American young adults exploring gender, age, coping, fear of missing out (FOMO), and COVID-19 news exposure as correlates of anxiety and depression. Results showed that gender, age, level of resilient coping, and experiences of FOMO were associated with psychological distress. Therefore, interventions to reduce psychological distress among African American young adults may need to focus on younger individuals and women, identify adaptive coping skills during times of significant change, and target individuals who experience FOMO.
Dynamic analysis and numerical simulation of a surface vertical well on the reverse fault side
Authors: Qin Song , Lin Haifei
Published: July 2023

With the help of mechanical models and numerical calculations, the research obtained: (1) the range of compressive shear stress in well bore is in the shape of “dam body” with the dip angle of a reverse fault, also, the magnitude of the compressive shear stress is related to the load factor and the maximum compressive principal stress which have an increasing relationship; (2) the superposition stress of lateral abutment stress and SZZ of a working face is σA, which is related to the distance between reverse faults; (3) the closer the distance to the reverse fault and the greater the vertical well displacement and deformation as the advancement length of the working face increases, the sensitivity to the effects of the reverse fault and mining is: XDISP > ZDISP > YDISP, and the sensitivity to the boundary is such that: ZDISP > YDISP > XIDSP; (4) the closer the distance to the reverse fault and the larger the length of the working face, the greater the displacement and deformation of the vertical well. In addition, the sensitivity to the effects of reverse faults and mining is: XDISP > ZDISP > YDISP; (5) when the working face continues to be mined, the shear stress on the well bore and the circumference of the hole is sensitive to the influences of reverse faults as follows: SXZ > SYZ > SXY; (7) the density of strain energy at the well bore is most sensitive to the lateral distance to the working face strike mining line. Based on these results, it is proposed to arrange large-diameter pressure relief boreholes around the hole and arrange layers to eliminate the influence of the well bore boundary and eliminate the accumulation of shear strain energy around such a well bore.
Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee Points to Consider: Sampling, Processing, Evaluation, Interpretation, and Reporting of Test Article-Related Ganglion Pathology for Nonclinical Toxicity Studies
Authors: Bennet Bindu M. , Pardo Ingrid D. , Assaf Basel T. , Buza Elizabeth , Cramer Sarah , Crawford LaTasha K. , Engelhardt Jeffery A. , Grubor Branka , Morrison James P. , Osborne Tanasa S. , Sharma Alok K. , Bolon Brad
Published: July 2023

Certain biopharmaceutical products consistently affect dorsal root ganglia, trigeminal ganglia, and/or autonomic ganglia. Product classes targeting ganglia include antineoplastic chemotherapeutics, adeno-associated virus-based gene therapies, antisense oligonucleotides, and anti-nerve growth factor agents. This article outlines “points to consider” for sample collection, processing, evaluation, interpretation, and reporting of ganglion findings; these points are consistent with published best practices for peripheral nervous system evaluation in nonclinical toxicity studies. Ganglion findings often occur as a combination of neuronal injury (e.g., degeneration, necrosis, and/or loss) and/or glial effects (e.g., increased satellite glial cell cellularity) with leukocyte accumulation (e.g., mononuclear cell infiltration or inflammation). Nerve fiber degeneration and/or glial reactions may be seen in nerves, dorsal spinal nerve roots, spinal cord, and occasionally brainstem. Interpretation of test article (TA)-associated effects may be confounded by incidental background changes or experimental procedure-related changes and limited historical control data. Reports should describe findings at these sites, any TA relationship, and the criteria used for assigning severity grades. Contextualizing adversity of ganglia findings can require a weight-of-evidence approach because morphologic changes of variable severity occur in ganglia but often are not accompanied by observable overt in-life functional alterations detectable by conventional behavioral and neurological testing techniques.
Numerical Appraisal of Reinforced Concrete Dapped-End Girder Under High-Fatigue Fixed Pulsating and Moving Loads
Authors: Quadri Ajibola Ibrahim , Ali Khawaja
Published: July 2023

This paper presents the numerical evaluation of structural response and fatigue life of a Reinforced Concrete Dapped-End Girder (RCDEB) and associated fatigue life under fixed pulsating and moving loads. For that, a finite element (FE) model of RCDEB is developed using a three-dimensional FE analysis code, Concrete Model of 3-Dimensions (COM3D), and analyzes the FE model under high-fatigue loads by adopting a certain percentage of verified maximum static capacity of the girder. The COM3D system is activated with a multidirectional active crack approach which considers the space averaging of stress–strain in an element. The experimental validation of the numerical analysis is also performed in the laboratory using a small-scale model of the RCDEB under the fixed pulsating load. The experimental validation demonstrates good agreement with the FE analysis. However, the moving load is not considered in the experimental scheme because of the limitation in the testing facility. Finally, it is found from the FE analysis that the moving load, as compared with the fixed pulsating load, has the greatest effect on fatigue performance of the girder, causing about a three-order reduction in fatigue life at the same percentage static capacity of the girder. An increase in the fatigue life of approximately one order is also recorded in the analysis under the static midpoint load of 350 kN as compared with the moving load. Moreover, it is also observed that the reentrant corner of the RCDEB is more vulnerable to fatigue, implying that the hanger bars close to this corner resisted the stresses after the concrete cracked. As a result, strengthening the reentrant zone is recommended.
Predicting Postoperative Injury and Military Discharge Status After Knee Surgery in the US Army
Authors: Adams Benjamin G. , Taylor Kathryn M. , Cameron Kenneth L. , Ritland Bradley M. , Westrick Richard B.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Researchers have assessed postoperative injury or disability predictors in the military setting but typically focused on 1 type of surgical procedure at a time, used relatively small sample sizes, or investigated mixed cohorts with civilian populations.

Purpose:

To identify the relationship between baseline variables and injury incidence or military discharge status in US Army soldiers after knee surgery.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data were obtained from a repository containing personnel, performance, and medical records for all active-duty US Army soldiers. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to estimate the effects of numerous variables on postoperative injury or on medical discharge. Variable selection and model validation were conducted using the k-fold method.

Results:

A total of 7567 soldiers underwent knee surgery between 2017 and 2019. Meniscal procedures were the most common type of surgery (39%), and approximately 71% of the cohort had a postoperative injury. Significant predictors for sustaining a postoperative injury included having a previous nonknee injury (odds ratio [OR], 1.5), female sex (OR, 1.3), and Black race (OR, 1.2). Within 4 years after surgery, 17% of soldiers were discharged from the military because of knee-related disability. Significant predictors for discharge from duty included enlisted rank (OR, 2.3), recent fitness test failure (OR, 1.9), number of previous knee surgeries (OR, 1.7), and having a previous nonknee injury (OR, 1.6).

Conclusion:

After knee surgery, nearly three-fourths of the soldiers in this cohort sustained a postoperative injury and almost one-fifth of soldiers were medically discharged from the military within 4 years. This study identified variables that indicate statistically increased risk for these postoperative outcomes and highlighted potentially modifiable factors.
Effect biomarkers of nanoparticle-exposed workers: A scoping review
Authors: Blank-Porat Diana , Amster Eric
Published: July 2023

The widespread and increasing use of engineered nanomaterials (i.e., particulate materials measuring 1–100 nanometers (nm) in at least one dimension) poses a potential health and safety risk to exposed workers. The unique properties of nanomaterials have made nanomaterials useful in multiple industries. However, their production and use may compromise worker health, presenting an emerging occupational health hazard, the acute and chronic effects of which have not been fully assessed. In this scoping review, we critically assess the literature on biomarkers of effect from nanoparticles and discuss the utility of biomonitoring as a means of assessing the physiological effects of nanoparticle exposure among nanotechnology workers. Multiple databases were queried based on select inclusion and exclusion criteria according to PRISMA guidelines, and articles were independently screened by two topic experts. Of 286 articles initially retrieved, 28 were included after screening and eligibility. The reviewed articles indicated that sensitive effect biomarkers could reflect early health effects of exposure to nanoparticles in the workplace and may be useful for monitoring toxicological effects and associated risks.
Forensic DNA analysis and legislative provisions: Balancing rights in a time of scientific advancement
Authors: Oosthuizen Tersia , Howes Loene M , White Rob
Published: July 2023

This article considers the historical development of DNA-related forensic procedures legislation in Australian jurisdictions from a critical forensic studies lens. It shows that the original intent of such legislation was to balance society’s need for effective crime control against certain rights of the individual, such as privacy and bodily integrity, and the rights of a suspect to due process. The article documents how the initial legislative intent has been eroded. This has occurred because, in conjunction with the continued development of DNA techniques, the use of forensic DNA data has been routinised. The current legislation focuses too much on crime control, while consideration of the suspect's right to privacy, dignity and honour, as required by the initial legislation, has decreased in relative importance.
The importance of appraising articles and conducting psychiatric journal clubs
Authors: Miller Edward , Weightman Michael James , Basu Ashna , Amos Andrew
Published: July 2023

Objective

To describe the importance of scientifically rigorous journal clubs in psychiatric education, and to provide a framework to effectively run journal clubs and appraise articles in a journal club format. This paper explores the concept of journal clubs and describes issues with the current state of academic science. It then lists factors associated with effectiveness of journal clubs and outlines a structure for appraising articles relevant to psychiatric practice in a journal club format.

Conclusions

Current models of academic research and publishing, which can reward practices vulnerable to multiple forms of bias, make the consistent and valued use of journal clubs in psychiatric education and continuing professional development more important than ever. The literature shows that journal clubs can provide a valuable forum for mental health clinicians to update themselves on recent medical and scientific knowledge, while practicing and teaching skills in critical appraisal of research, statistics, clinical decision-making and epidemiology.
Teaching Teachers: Commentary on Principles of Effective Course Design
Authors: Schultz Jennifer L. , Canchaya Jose
Published: July 2023

Invited commentary on the 2021 Journal of Management Education Lasting Impact Award for Dr. David Whetten 2007 article Principles of Effective Course Design: What I Wish I Had Known about Learning-centered Teaching 30 Years Ago.
Vascular Subinvolution of the Placental Implantation Site as the Cause of Hysterectomy
Authors: Akbarzadeh Jahromi Mojgan , Taheri Negar , Najib Fatemeh Sadat , Agha Khani Nezhad Fatemeh , Taheri Nasim , Abiri Fatemeh
Published: July 2023

Background. Vascular subinvolution of the placental bed is one of the uncommon but life-threatening forms of secondary postpartum hemorrhage. Studies on subinvolution of the implantation site are sparse and there is a scarcity of practice-based literature for this diagnosis. Case presentation. A 40-year-old woman with vaginal bleeding and light-headedness was admitted a few days after spontaneous abortion. Based on her unstable condition, hysterectomy was done. Pathologic gross evaluation of the uterus identified multiple large and dilated blood vessels, and microscopically, the myometrium showed thrombosis with scattered extravillous trophoblastic cells within the vessel walls. Conclusions. We described this rare case and explored the literature focusing on the pathophysiology and helpful ancillary studies for diagnosing this situation.
Morphological Characteristics of Various Cells in Esophageal Squamous Dysplasia: Extremely Wide Morphological Spectrum
Authors: Hou Weihua , Song Shujie , Duan Xinke , Hou Weidong , Shi Zhongyue , Ma Lijuan , Niu Jingwei , Jin Mulan
Published: July 2023

The WHO classification of esophageal tumors divides esophageal squamous intraepithelial dysplasia into high and low grades, but does not specify its morphological spectrum. Here, the morphological characteristics of various cells were investigated in esophageal squamous (high-grade) dysplasia, and a morphological spectrum and terminology for this lesion were proposed to avoid misdiagnosis. The clinicopathological data of 540 patients with esophageal squamous dysplasia were analyzed retrospectively. According to the unique cytomorphological characteristics of the lesions and the predominant cell type, the esophageal squamous dysplasia was divided into the following morphological groups: classic type (34.6%, 187/540), basaloid subtype (10.7%, 58/540), spindle-cell subtype (4.6%, 25/540), differentiated subtype (48.9%, 264/540), and verrucous subtype (1.1%, 6/540). Gender, age, and lesions location did not differ among the subtypes ( P > 0.05), while Paris classification and lesions diameter significantly differed among the subtypes ( P < 0.01). Classic-type cells showed severe atypia. In the basaloid subtype, the cells were small, and resembled basal cells; most of these lesions were of the 0-IIb type with small lesion diameter. In the spindle-cell subtype, the cells and nuclei were spindle-shaped or long and spindle-shaped and arranged in parallel. Differentiated-subtype showed well-to-moderately differentiated cells, and epithelial basal cells were mature. Verrucous-subtype showed well-differentiated cells, and were characterized by verrucous or papillary structures. Esophageal squamous dysplasia has extremely wide morphological spectrum. Awareness of the spectrum of morphological presentations of this lesion, specifically the basaloid subtype, spindle-cell subtype, differentiated subtype, and verrucous subtype, is important for accurate diagnosis.
PubCasts: Putting Voice in Scholarly Work and Science Communication
Authors: Harrison Hannah L. , Loring Philip A.
Published: July 2023

This commentary explores the emergence and potential of PubCasts—abridged and annotated audiobook-style recordings of scholarly work. PubCasts aim to make scholarly work more accessible, engaging, and easily understood by broad audiences. We highlight our motivation for creating PubCasts and discuss our experiences in making and sharing them. We further reflect on the potential of PubCasts to combat misinformation by offering a more intimate and humanized form of science communication. To assist others in adopting PubCasting, we explain the process of creating PubCasts, including required components and hosting options, and conclude with encouragement to other science communicators.
Determination of drug–drug interaction in breast cancer patients receiving doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide regimen
Authors: Mahfouz Mona , Alkhalid Zaid Nabeel , Birand Nevzat
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Drug interactions constitute a significant issue in cancer treatment. Therefore, it is important to assess and analyze all cancer patients’ therapies prior to the initiation of chemotherapy.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted at the Near East University Hospital Oncology Department located in North Cyprus between June 2019 and December 2021. The aim of the study was to determine the nature, type, and frequency of potential drug–drug interactions in breast cancer patients receiving a doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide regimen using Drugs.com, Lexicomp, and Micromedex databases while comparing the three electronic databases, according to the frequency, mechanism, and severity of drug–drug interactions.

Results

The study included 40 patients (44.4%) out of 90 patients diagnosed with breast cancer, as 50 patients (55.6%) who did not match the criteria were excluded. According to the Lexicomp database, 12 patients (30%) with breast cancer had 14 potential drug–drug interactions, according to the Drugs.com database, 15 patients (37.5%) with breast cancer had 22 potential drug–drug interactions, and according to the Micromedex database, 13 patients (32.5%) with breast cancer had 15 potential drug–drug interactions. Pearson correlation indicated a weak association (Lexicomp: r = 0.475, p = 0.002 and Micromedex: r = 0.491, p = 0.001) and a moderate association (Drugs.com: r = 0.500, p = 0.001) between potential drug–drug interactions and five or more medications.

Conclusion

This study showed that the Drugs.com database detected more potential drug interactions between chemotherapy and nonchemotherapy than the Lexicomp and Micromedex databases. Comprehensive drug review, use of electronic health record systems, and collaboration between healthcare providers such as pharmacists and physicians may be necessary strategies to minimize potential drug–drug interactions and optimize cancer treatment in patients with breast cancer.
Characterization of education, technical practices and attitudes of Portuguese pharmacy technicians towards manipulation of cytotoxic drugs
Authors: Campos Daniela , Silva Inês , Rego Mariana , Correia Patrícia , Moreira Fernando
Published: July 2023

Pharmacy professionals that manipulate cytotoxic drugs need to undergo educational programs, adopt the most convenient practices, and use appropriate equipment to avoid, as far as possible, occupational exposure to cytotoxic drugs. The main goal of this work is to characterize the education, technical practices, and attitudes towards cytotoxic drugs, of Portuguese pharmacy technicians. A questionnaire comprising eleven questions deemed pertinent was elaborated and subsequently validated by a pilot test. The anonymous, web-based survey was conducted between December 2022 and January 2023, by graduated pharmacy technicians that had manipulated cytotoxic drugs between 2017 and 2022. A total of 77 pharmacy technicians responded to the survey. Although sixty-six pharmacy technicians (86%) had been trained before beginning to manipulate cytotoxic drugs, the promotion of regular post-admission training by the institutions is sparse – only assumed by 53% of the pharmacy technicians ( n = 41). All participants reported using gloves and gown during manipulation and the use of double gloves was common (99%; n = 76). Compliances with the recommended limit time for uninterrupted manipulation activity (82%; n = 63) and systematic double-checking (86%; n = 66) were high, but the regular use of sterile gauze around syringe connection sites 58% ( n = 45), was less frequent. None of the surveyed pharmacy technicians used closed-system transfer devices (CSTD) and 41 (53%) of those who used spikes did not thoughtfully use these devices. The implementation of regular training programs in manipulating cytotoxic drugs should be fostered, to promote the more judicious use of engineering controls and transversal adoption of the safest technical practices.
Lagrange multipliers at the boundary in the inextensional bending theory of thin elastic shells
Authors: Steigmann David J
Published: July 2023

The theory of inextensional deformations of shells is extended by introducing Lagrange multipliers at the boundary to supplement those operating in the interior. These are associated with a constraint on the metric on the closure of the shell midsurface. The additional multipliers allow for a richer set of external actions than those admitted by the conventional theory. In particular, they balance concentrated forces in the tangent plane of the surface applied at corners of the boundary.
Visual Modality of Engagement: Conceptualization, Typology of Forms, and Outcomes
Authors: Azer Jaylan , Blasco-Arcas Lorena , Alexander Matthew
Published: July 2023

Customers proactively engage with firms’ offerings through behavioral manifestations such as brand-related social media posts, influencing other customers in online networks and, consequently, affecting brand value. With the growth of visually oriented social media platforms, interest has increased in understanding customer engagement behavior (CEB) using visual content. In this paper, we build on CEB, image acts, visual content, and communication theories to conceptualize the Visual Modality of Engagement (VME). Using both field and lab studies, we develop a typology of four distinct positive (experiential, evidential) and negative (mocking, dissuasive) forms of VME and offer empirical evidence revealing they induce different brand-related (purchase intentions, brand evaluation) and other customer-related (willingness to imitate, resharing intentions) outcomes. Additional results also reveal outcomes vary by the interplay of social and brand interactions with the various VME forms. The findings of this research offer guidance to content managers for the development of more effective engagement strategies in social media marketing.
Probable Evidence of Aerosol Transmission of SARS-COV-2 in a COVID-19 Outbreak of a High-Rise Building
Authors: Jiang Xiaoman , Zhao Chenlu , Chen Yuezhu , Gao Xufang , Zhang Qinlong , Chen Zhenhua , Li Changxiong , Zhao Xiaoyan , Liu Zhijian , Huang Weiwei , Xie Wenjun , Yue Yong
Published: July 2023

Although it is well established that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can be transmitted through aerosols, the mode of long-range aerosol transmission in high-rise buildings remains unclear. In this study, we analyzed an outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that occurred in a high-rise building in China. Our objective was to investigate the plausibility of aerosol transmission of SARS-CoV-2 by testing relevant environmental variables and measuring the dispersion of a tracer gas in the drainage system of the building. The outbreak involved 7 infected families, of which 6 were from vertically aligned flats on different floors. Environmenìtal data revealed that 3 families’ bathrooms were contaminated by SARS-CoV-2. In our tracer experiment, we injected tracer gas (CO2) into the dry floor drains and into water-filled toilets in the index case’ s bathroom. Our findings showed that the gas could travel through vertical pipes by the dry floor drains, but not through the water of the toilets. This indicates that dry floor drains might facilitate the transmission of viral aerosols through the sewage system. On the basis of circumstantial evidence, long-range aerosol transmission may have contributed to the community outbreak of COVID-19 in this high-rise building. The vertical transmission of diseases through aerosols in high-rise buildings demands urgent attention.
Incorporating Safety and Quality Measures Into Australia’s Activity-Based Funding of Public Hospital Services
Authors: Webster Samuel B. G. , Neville Sarah E. , Nobbs Jennifer , Ching Jada , van Gool Kees
Published: July 2023

In a bid to improve quality of care, numerous countries have incorporated rewards and penalties into the funding and pricing of hospital services. This paper outlines recent advances in Australia to incorporate financial penalties for hospital acquired complications (HACs) and avoidable hospital readmissions (AHRs) adjustments into the funding of public hospital services. It describes the work in the development of suitable measures to identify episodes, the design of the analytical approach used for risk adjustment and the calculation of the funding implications including dampening effects to account for the level of risk. Using the 2019 to 20 round of data collection, this paper reports on the risk adjustment analysis, incremental costs of HACs and AHRs, and the funding dampening effects, the paper further discusses the implementation strategies undertaken by the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) to ensure transparency, stakeholder consultation and engagement. The paper argues that both the technical development and its implementation strategies have been central to making safety and quality an integral and accepted part of Australia’s public hospital funding arrangements.
Hepatitis C virus/Hepatitis B virus coinfection: Current prospectives
Authors: Maqsood Quratulain , Sumrin Aleena , Iqbal Maryam , Younas Saima , Hussain Nazim , Mahnoor Muhammada , Wajid Abdul
Published: July 2023

In endemic areas, hepatitis C virus (HCV)/hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection is common, and patients with coinfection have a higher risk of developing liver disease such as hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. In such cases, HCV predominates, and HBV replication is suppressed by HCV. HCV core proteins and interferons that are activated by HCV are responsible for the suppression of HBV. Immunosuppression is also seen in patients with HCV and HBV coinfections. A decrease in HCV-neutralizing antibody response and circulation of Th1-like Tfh cells is observed in patients with HCV and HBV coinfection. Both viruses interacted in the liver, and treatment of HCV/HBV coinfection is genotype-based and complex due to the interaction of both viruses. In HCV-dominant cases, direct-acting antiviral drugs and peg interferon plus ribavirin are used for the treatment, with continuous monitoring of AST and ALT. HBV-dominant cases are less common and are treated with peg interferon and nucleoside nucleotide analogues with monitoring of AST and ALT. The SVR rate in HCV-HBV coinfection is higher than that in monoinfection when treated with direct-acting antiviral drugs. But there is a risk of reactivation of HBV during and after therapy. The rate of reactivation is lower in patients treated with direct-acting antiviral drugs as compared to those treated with peg interferon plus ribavirin. Biomarkers of HBV such as HBcrAg, HBV DNA and HBVpg RNA are not effective in the prediction of HBV reactivation; only the hepatitis B surface antigen titre can be used as a biomarker for HBV reactivation. HCV can also be reactive, but this is found in very rare cases in which HBV is present and is treated first.
Power series approach to nonlinear oscillators
Authors: As’ad Ata Abu- , Asad Jihad
Published: July 2023

In this article, we introduce a nonlinear oscillator equation containing two strong linear terms. An approximate solution was obtained using power series approach. Furthermore, by introducing a parameter to the original equation, we fined the fixed points of the modified nonlinear oscillator equation and study stability analysis of these fixed points. On the other hand, we simulate the solution of the nonlinear oscillator equation and introduced many plots for different initial conditions. Finally, we make some plots concerning the phase portrait for different cases.
Study on nonlinear vibration and primary resonance characteristics of helicopter face gear-planetary gear coupling transmission system
Authors: Mo Shuai , Huang Xuan , Liu Wenbin , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2023

In order to explore the dynamic response and primary resonance characteristics of the gear transmission system of the helicopter main reducer. The face gear-planetary gear torsion-translation vibration dynamics model is established, and the time-varying meshing stiffness, gear backlashes, gear eccentricity error, and friction are considered. The four-order variable-step Runge–Kutta was used to solve the dynamic response of the system, and the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the system were described by time domain diagram, phase trajectory plane, Poincaré map, 3D frequency spectrum, and bifurcation diagram. Additionally, using the face gear-spur gear system's transmission as an example, the multi-scale method is used to analyze the face gear-spur gear system's primary resonance characteristics. The influence of load fluctuation amplitude, meshing damping, and meshing stiffness on its amplitude-frequency characteristics is also investigated. It is found that when external load excitation frequency changes, the vibration response of the whole system changes synchronously, which exhibits periodic, multi-periodic, and chaotic motion. In addition, according to the primary resonance analysis, the system's stability will be harmed by increasing the external load fluctuations’ amplitude, lowering the meshing damping, and raising the meshing stiffness.
What do you value based on who you are? Big five personality traits, destination value and electronic word-of-mouth intentions
Authors: Fanea-Ivanovici Mina , Baber Hasnan , Salem Islam Elbayoumi , Pana Marius-Cristian
Published: July 2023

The travel and tourism sector (TTS) is an important source of jobs and revenues for any country. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has shattered some industries more than others, with the TTS being one of the most affected ones in Romania. Recovery of TTS is, therefore, critical due to its significant share in the country’s GDP. Electronic word-of-mouth (e-WOM) has recently become a strong instrument that voices the experiences of customers in the online environment and further determines consumption of tourism services by other people. The choice of a tourist destination depends on a decision involving evaluations of economic, emotional, social and altruistic values attached to that destination. These evaluations can determine electronic word-of-mouth (e-WOM) intentions as tourists need to share their experiences. Using PLS-SEM ( n=469) on the Romanian tourist population, the research hereby checks the influence of the big five personality traits (BFPT): openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism on the destination values. This research also aims to analyze the relationship between the big five personality traits and e-WOM intentions, using the mediating role of destination value, in choosing a tourist destination in Romania. Results are useful both for tourism operators and industry policy makers.
A Qualitative Study on Why Older Adults May Be Reluctant to Participate in Learning Activities
Authors: Hu Hsiao-Mei
Published: July 2023

Maintaining the abilities and utilizing, even developing the potential of older adults is currently one of the important issues in an aged society, and participation in education is an important method to maintain and develop the abilities of older adults. Exploring the factors that discourage older adults from participating in learning activities is important in promoting their educational participation. Therefore, this paper focuses on understanding why older adults may be reluctant to participate in learning activities. This study utilized an interview approach to gain an in-depth understanding of the perspectives of older adults, with 24 participants involved in the study. The interview data was analysed using open coding, axial coding, and selective coding for qualitative data analysis and to draw conclusions. The results indicated that older adults may be reluctant to participate in education, which may be influenced by factors such as age, physical condition, education level, economic status, lifestyle, interpersonal relationships, transportation, and the types of courses available. According to the findings, two important issues regarding older adult education were identified: personal difficulties and curriculum structure. Based on the research results, this study provides suggestions for future reference in planning older adult education.
A Study on the Effect of Traditional Chinese Exercise Combined With Rhythm Training on the Intervention of Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhu Menglong , Huang Lili , Zhu Miao , Liu Xiaolei , Zhou Ping , Meng Tao
Published: July 2023

Background

To examine the effect of combination exercise program on cognitive function of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and identify biomarkers associated with improvement of cognitive functions.

Methods

Subjects were 42 older adults (ages, 60-80 years) with MCI. The subjects were randomly classified to traditional Chinese exercise combined with rhythm training group (TCE + RTG, n = 14), walking group (WG, n = 14), and control group (CG, n = 14), according to their level of MMSE scores. These groups exercised for 60 minutes at 1 session, 3 sessions a week for 12 weeks. The intervention program was conducted under multitask conditions to stimulate attention and memory, and the control group attended 3 education classes. Measurements were administered before, after the 6-week, and after the 12-week intervention period; Measurements: The Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL), and the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17), along with the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). A repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to examine differences among the 3 groups and between the 3 testing times (pre-test vs middle-test vs post-test).

Results

(1) The TCE + RTG showed significant improvement in the MMSE, MoCA, SDMT, and ADL scale test results ( P < .01) and HAMD-17 scale test results ( P < .05). The WG also showed significant improvement in the MMSE, MoCA, and HAMD-17 scale test results ( P < .05) and the ADL scale test results ( P < .01). While there was no significant change in the CG after the intervention. (2) The TCE + RTG and WG showed positive improvement in peripheral blood BDNF levels, while the CG showed a decrease in these test results. There were significant differences between the TCE + RTG and CG before and after the intervention.

Conclusion

The results suggested that a TCE + RT is beneficial for improving memory and maintaining general cognitive function and peripheral blood BDNF levels in older adults with MCI. Peripheral blood BDNF levels may predict improvement of cognitive functions in older adults with MCI. Further studies are required to determine the positive effects of TCE + RT on cognitive function in older adults with MCI. Trial Registration: ChiCTR2200058545, Registered 10 April 2022.