bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Noninvasive Circulating Signature of Combined Right Ventricular Pressure and Volume Overload in Tetralogy of Fallot/Pulmonary Atresia/Major Aortopulmonary Collateral Arteries
Authors: Clouthier Katie L. , Taylor Anne C. , Xuhuai Ji , Liu Yuhan , Parker Sarah , Van Eyk Jennifer , Reddy Sushma
Published: December 2023

Background: Despite surgical advances, children with tetralogy of Fallot/pulmonary atresia/major aortopulmonary collaterals (TOF/PA/MAPCAs) are subject to chronic right ventricular (RV) pressure and volume overload. Current diagnostic tools do not identify adverse myocardial remodeling and cannot predict progression to RV failure. We sought to identify a noninvasive, circulating signature of the systemic response to right heart stress to follow disease progression. Methods: Longitudinal data were collected from patients with TOF/PA/MAPCAs (N = 5) at the time of (1) early RV pressure overload and (2) late RV pressure and volume overload. Plasma protein and microRNA expression were evaluated using high-throughput data-independent mass spectroscopy and Agilent miR Microarray, respectively. Results: At the time of early RV pressure overload, median patient age was 0.34 years (0.02-9.37), with systemic RV pressures, moderate-severe hypertrophy, and preserved systolic function. Late RV pressure and volume overload occurred at a median age of 4.08 years (1.51-10.83), with moderate RV hypertrophy and dilation, and low normal RV function; 277 proteins were significantly dysregulated (log2FC ≥0.6/≤−0.6, FDR≤0.05), predicting downregulation in lipid transport (apolipoproteins), fibrinolytic system, and extracellular matrix structural proteins (talin 1, profilin 1); and upregulation in the respiratory burst. Increasing RV size and decreasing RV function correlated with decreasing structural protein expression. Similarly, miR expression predicted downregulation of extracellular matrix–receptor interactions and upregulation in collagen synthesis. Conclusion: To our knowledge, we show for the first time a noninvasive protein and miR signature reflecting the systemic response to adverse RV myocardial remodeling in TOF/PA/MAPCAs which could be used to follow disease progression.
Developing and Validating a Soft Skills Assessment Scale for Psychoeducational Assessment
Authors: Phuti Fiji , Koloi-Keaikitse Setlhomo , Tsheko Gaelebale Nnunu , Oppong Seth
Published: December 2023

There are concerns that soft skills assessment has been conceptualized within the Western context and may not reflect the indigenous African worldview. Without relevant soft skills assessment contextualized in the African cultural cosmology, there is a limitation in assessing African conceptions of abilities. The purpose of this study was to identify relevant soft skills for secondary/high school students and develop a scale relevant for assessing soft skills in Botswana. An exploratory sequential mixed methods design was used to explore the perceptions of 23 education stakeholders on relevant soft skills for secondary students through in-depth interviews. The qualitative findings were used to develop a 63-item Soft Skills Assessment Scale which was administered to a sample of 306 senior secondary school students selected from three educational regions in Botswana. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted to assess the latent factor structure of the scale. Through principal component analysis, four factors were extracted with underlying 38 items. However, a confirmatory factor analysis confirmed a four-factor model (Perseverance, Civic virtue, Teamwork, and Communication) based on a final 14-item scale with Cronbach’s alphas above .60 and Cronbach’s alpha of .82 for the entire scale. Convergent and discriminant validities of the scale were within an acceptable range. The key contribution of this study was the development of a psychometrically valid and reliable Soft Skills Assessment Scale (SSAS) in the context of Botswana.
Economic Sustainability of Small Mining Towns: A Case Study in South Africa
Authors: Meggersee Angelien , Guvuriro Sevias
Published: December 2023

Small mining towns are often single-industry towns that turn to ghost towns or face negative socio-economic impacts upon mine closure. This study qualitatively explores the roles that mining companies and other key stakeholders (should) play in the development of local economies of the small mining communities to bring about economic sustainability, employing a constant comparative analysis. A small mining town in South Africa is the case study. Legislative and policy frameworks were scrutinized for their effectiveness in promoting economic sustainability. In-depth interviews with key stakeholders were carried out. Key factors limiting the effective implementation of developmental strategies were also explored. The study finds that weak community involvement, lack of trust, poor collaboration, poor municipal capacity, and legislation and policy flaws impact economic sustainability. Sustainable local economic development efforts are reported though. However, such efforts are insufficient because of the legislation and policy frameworks that are promoting short-term growth. Also, the town’s overdependence on the mining company, local government not optimally fulfilling their roles and responsibilities, and minimal community members’ participation on local economic development are other hindrances. However, the fact that the mining company and local municipality do acknowledge the shortcomings in their efforts towards promoting economic sustainability is a promise in minimizing the socio-economic effects of mine closures.
Professional Life Phases of Teacher Educators: The Case of a Vietnam Institution
Authors: Ngan Nguyen Thi Lan
Published: December 2023

Teacher educators influence the quality of future teachers and teacher education programs. However, their professional life during their mid and late career has not been scrutinized considering their work experience, particularly in Vietnam. Hence, this qualitative study explores the professional life phases of eight Vietnamese teacher educators, whose experience ranged from 6 to 26 years. In-depth interviews were conducted and a lifeline chart was applied when possible. The constant comparative method was applied for cross-comparison between cases. The study results revealed four career phases, including Phase I—Adaptation and competency building (1–5 years of work experience), Phase II—Stabilization (6–10 years of work experience), Phase III—Prosperous engagement (11–20 years of work experience), and Phase IV—Calming down or winding up (21 or more years of work experience). The findings may help administrators tailor teacher educators’ professional development based on their experience and expertise.
English Preparatory School Learners’ Pragmatic Motivation in a StudyAbroad Setting
Authors: Kaderli Aycan , Razı Özge
Published: December 2023

Numerous language-learning variables play a crucial role in students’ pragmatic competence development. However, amongst many of these variables, factors like age, gender, and proficiency level have not been extensively researched. Specifically, domains like Motivation and its role in pragmatic development are understudied. This study aims to explore EFL learners’ pragmatic Motivation in a study abroad context. A quantitative research design was adopted for this study. Data were collected from 160 university students through a general pragmatic motivation questionnaire and a speech acts-specific motivation questionnaire focusing on request, refusal, and apology speech acts. After collecting and analyzing the data, this study revealed interesting findings on students’ pragmatic motivation, which was used to make pedagogical conclusions.
E-Banking Convergence and the Adopter’s Behavior Changing Across EU Countries
Authors: Grigorescu Adriana , Oprisan Oana , Lincaru Cristina , Pirciog Camelia Speranta
Published: December 2023

The concepts of internet banking and mobile banking have led to changes in people’s financial behavior in terms of earning, consuming, and saving. This new concept, which entered the market quite recently, was used at the beginning of the new digital technology in various types of activities, banking operations, and nowadays these services are used by all people who want to save through banks or create new sources of income, as well as to make quick currency exchanges without going to credit institutions. The main purpose of this paper is to analyze people’s behavior toward new digital technologies, e-banking adoption, and non-banking financial institutions internet services. The objectives pursued are: whether e-banking users are homogeneous in their characteristics in the EU 27 and which users have the most convergent or divergent behavior in the EU 27. Statistical data taken from Eurostat 2023 was used for the Sigma convergence analysis, the time series taken into consideration being from 2004 to 2022. The results showed that the changes in the procedural-fiscal-financial sphere are the ones that fully reflect the two principles underlying the tax evolution: digitization and simplification. These results confirm that people are adopting the new digital technology and change their behavior from consumer to prosumer. The study shows that all most categories adopted e-banking using new digital technologies when it comes to consumption and saving, with few exceptions that should be carefully supported.
Study of EGCG composite hydrogel for the treatment of radiation-induced skin injuries
Authors: Wang Jingying , Gao Lin , Song Jianbo , Li Sijin
Published: December 2023

With the rising incidence of cancer, radiotherapy has become an increasingly popular treatment modality. However, radiation-induced skin injuries (RSIs) have emerged as a commonly reported side effect of radiotherapy, thereby presenting a significant challenge in the field of radiotherapy. In this study, we report the successful synthesis of a photosensitive hydrogel via amide reaction for grafting the photosensitive group, methacrylate anhydride (MA), onto chitosan (CHI) and gelatin (GEL), with subsequent physical incorporation of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). The resulting composite photosensitive hydrogels exhibited favorable swelling properties, rheological properties, and biocompatibility, which promote angiogenesis and demonstrate notable therapeutic efficacy against RSIs. These findings provide valuable insights into the clinical utility of EGCG composite hydrogels for the effective management of RSIs.
Tuberculous Bronchopleural Fistula: A Rare and Life-Threatening Disease
Authors: Bathobakae Lefika , Shahid Aneeqa , Wilkinson Tyler , Adalja Devina , Sanchez Jessimar , Agnelli Michael , Suh Jin , Solis Roberto
Published: December 2023

Tuberculous bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication of pulmonary tuberculosis, in which abnormal connections form between the bronchial tree and the pleural space. These abnormal connections allow air and secretions to pass from the lungs into the pleural space, causing a range of symptoms from benign cough to acute tension pneumothorax. The management of tuberculous BPF requires an individualized approach based on the patient’s condition and response to treatment. Anti-tuberculosis therapy is essential for controlling the active tuberculosis infections. Intercostal drainage and suction are also commonly used to drain air and fluid from the pleural space, providing relief from the symptoms. For some patients, more invasive surgeries, such as decortication, thoracoplasty or pleuropneumonectomy are required to definitively close the fistula when medical management alone is insufficient. Herein, we describe a rare case of tuberculous BPF in a young adult female, who was treated with anti-tuberculosis medications and open thoracotomy.
Acute Mesentero-Axial Gastric Volvulus in the Setting of a Paraesophageal Hernia: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Bathobakae Lefika , Jariwala Mohita , Hajdarmataj Ela , Yuridullah Ruhin , Melki Gabriel , Cavanagh Yana , Baddoura Walid
Published: December 2023

Acute gastric volvulus is a surgical emergency that requires urgent intervention to prevent gastric ischemia and necrosis. Gastric volvulus manifests as an abnormal rotation or torsion of the stomach and may be associated with gastric outlet obstruction. This pathology can be classified as either mesentero-axial or organo-axial volvulus, depending on the axis of rotation. Similarly, it can be categorized as primary or secondary, depending on the etiology. We describe a case of a 63-year-old female with a history of peptic ulcer disease who presented with severe epigastric pain and vomiting of one-day duration. She was diagnosed with an acute mesentero-axial gastric volvulus, which was successfully reduced using a nasogastric tube.
Biomechanical Evaluation of the 2 Different Levels of Coracoid Graft Positions in the Latarjet Procedure for Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Ganokroj Phob , Dey Hazra Maria , Dey Hazra Rony-Orijit , Brady Alex W. , Brown Justin R. , Rupp Marco-Christopher , Garcia Alexander R. , Whalen Ryan J. , Millett Peter J. , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: December 2023

Background:

In the Latarjet procedure, the ideal placement of the coracoid graft in the medial-lateral position is flush with the anterior glenoid rim. However, the ideal position of the graft in the superior-inferior position (sagittal plane) for restoring glenohumeral joint stability is still controversial.

Purpose:

To compare coracoid graft clockface positions between the traditional 3 to 5 o'clock and a more inferior (for the right shoulder) 4 to 6 o'clock with regard to glenohumeral joint stability in the Latarjet procedure.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders were tested in a dynamic, custom-built robotic shoulder model. Each shoulder was loaded with a 50-N compressive load while an 80-N force was applied in the anteroinferior axes at 90° of abduction and 60° of shoulder external rotation. Four conditions were tested: (1) intact, (2) 6-mm glenoid bone loss (GBL), (3) Latarjet procedure fixed at 3- to 5-o’clock position, and (4) Latarjet procedure fixed at 4- to 6-o’clock position. The stability ratio (SR) and degree of lateral humeral displacement (LHD) were recorded. A 1-factor random-intercepts linear mixed-effects model and Tukey method were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Compared with the intact state (1.77 ± 0.11), the SR was significantly lower after creating a 6-mm GBL (1.14 ± 0.61, P = .009), with no significant difference in SR after Latarjet 3 to 5 o'clock (1.51 ± 0.70, P = .51) or 4 to 6 o'clock (1.55 ± 0.68, P = .52). Compared with the intact state (6.48 ± 2.24 mm), LHD decreased significantly after GBL (3.16 ± 1.56 mm, P < .001) and Latarjet 4 to 6 o'clock (5.48 ± 3.39 mm, P < .001). Displacement decreased significantly after Latarjet 3 to 5 o'clock (4.78 ± 2.50 mm, P = .04) compared with the intact state but not after Latarjet 4 to 6 o'clock ( P = .71).

Conclusion:

The Latarjet procedure in both coracoid graft positions (3-5 and 4-6 o’clock) restored the SR to the values measured in the intact state. A more inferior graft position (fixed at 4-6 o’clock) may improve shoulder biomechanics, but additional work is needed to establish clinical relevance.

Clinical Relevance:

An inferior coracoid graft fixation, the 4- to 6-o’clock position, may benefit in restoring normal shoulder biomechanics after the Latarjet procedure.
Arthroscopy Association of Canada Position Statement on Opioid Prescription After Arthroscopic Surgery
Authors: Nucci Nicholas , Degen Ryan , Ekhtiari Seper , Gazendam Aaron , Ayeni Olufemi R. , Horner Nolan , Wong Ivan , Woodmass Jarret , Grant John , Sheehan Brendan , Pickell Michael , Kopka Michaela , Martin Ryan , Tucker Allison , Sommerfeldt Mark , Gusnowski Eva , Rousseau-Saine Alexis , Lebel Marie-Eve , Karpyshyn Jillian , Matache Bogdan , Carroll Michael , Da Cunha Rachael , Kwapisz Adam , Martin R. Kyle , Khan Moin
Published: December 2023

Background:

Despite the ongoing opioid epidemic, most patients are still prescribed a significant number of opioid medications for pain management after arthroscopic surgery. There is a need for consensus among orthopaedic surgeons and solutions to aid providers in analgesic strategies that reduce the use of opioid pain medications.

Purpose:

This position statement was developed with a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of exclusively randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to synthesize the best available evidence for managing acute postoperative pain after arthroscopic surgery.

Study Design:

Position statement.

Methods:

The Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception until August 10, 2022. Keywords included arthroscopy, opioids, analgesia, and pain, and associated variations. We included exclusively RCTs on adult patients to gather the best available evidence for managing acute postoperative pain after arthroscopic surgery. Patient characteristics, pain, and opioid data were extracted, data were analyzed, and trial bias was evaluated.

Results:

A total of 21 RCTs were identified related to the prescription of opioid-sparing pain medication after arthroscopic surgery. The following recommendations regarding noninvasive, postoperative pain management strategies were made: (1) multimodal oral nonopioid analgesic regimens—including at least 1 of acetaminophen—a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug—can significantly reduce opioid consumption with no change in pain scores; (2) cryotherapy is likely to help with pain management, although the evidence on the optimal method of application (continuous-flow vs ice pack application) is unclear; (3) and (4) limited RCT evidence supports the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and relaxation exercises in reducing opioid consumption after arthroscopy; and (5) limited RCT evidence exists against the efficacy of transdermal lidocaine patches in reducing opioid consumption.

Conclusion:

A range of nonopioid strategies exist that can reduce postarthroscopic procedural opioid consumption with equivalent vocal pain outcomes. Optimal strategies include multimodal analgesia with education and restricted/reduced opioid prescription.
The Loneliness of Low-Income Older Adults in a Federal Volunteering Program: A Network Perspective
Authors: Cao Qiuchang (Katy) , Dabelko-Schoeny Holly , Warren Keith , Lee Mo Yee
Published: December 2023

Volunteering has been associated with increased social interactions and reduced feelings of loneliness among older adults. However, a growing number of social network analyses (SNA) conducted in the general population outside of volunteering contexts suggest that lonely individuals tended to interact with other lonely individuals in the network, reinforcing loneliness through peer associations. To better understand the psychosocial impact of peer interactions among older adults within volunteer programs, this study examines how older adults’ loneliness is correlated with their peers’ loneliness within the Senior Companions Program (SCP). This study collected information on the social networks within an SCP in a Midwest Metropolitan and feelings of loneliness among low-income Russian, Khmer, Somali, Nepali, and English-speaking older volunteers ( N = 41). A linear network autocorrelation model (LNAM) was constructed to quantify how volunteers’ loneliness is correlated with their peers’ loneliness within SCP. The LNAM results indicated that less lonely volunteers tended to make friends with lonelier volunteers (ρ = -.06, p < .05) in SCP even when accounting for statistical controls. The finding that more and less lonely individuals connect indicates an altruistic tendency for less lonely individuals to interact with those who are lonelier. This may be an important pathway by which volunteering addresses loneliness.
Impact of Weight on Severity of Hospital Course in Children Admitted With COVID-19
Authors: Tantivit Nessa , Mulekar Madhuri , Kaulfers Anne-Marie , Lim Whei Ying
Published: December 2023

Objective. To describe the impact of weight on length of stay (LOS) and oxygen requirement among hospitalized children with COVID-19. Methods. This is a retrospective review of 153 children admitted for COVID-19 from March 2020 to October 2021. Body mass index (BMI) percentile and weight-for-age (WFA) percentile were used to determine weight status for children ≥2 years and <2 years respectively. Results. We found 2 distinct patterns for patients <2 years and ≥2 years; The likelihood of needing oxygen and LOS ≥ 5 days was higher for children ≥2 years with BMI ≥ 85th percentile ( P = .0415 and P = .0197). Among those <2 years, mean WFA percentile decreased with increasing oxygen need ( P = .0325). There was a negative correlation between LOS and WFA percentile ( r = −.31, P = .0123). Conclusion. It is important to stratify patients’ risk according to their age, BMI and WFA percentile during hospitalization for COVID 19.
ACTing Like a Lawyer: An Affect Control Theory Explanation of Gender Gaps in Law
Authors: Fields Benjamin
Published: December 2023

Despite increased parity, large gaps remain between men and women in law. The author proposes that the cultural meanings and everyday interactions in which lawyers engage may create a gendered institution that reifies the gender hierarchy. Using three universal dimensions of meaning, the author investigates differences in the meanings of lawyer-related identities by gender. The results show that across all of these identities, female-modified identities carry cultural meanings that are less powerful than nonmodified identities. Using affect control theory, the author develops hypotheses about the expectations for men and women lawyers when enacting behaviors coded as either adversarial or caring. The data suggest that women are perceived as gender deviant when engaging in adversarial behaviors, while men are perceived as gender deviant when engaging in communal behaviors. These empirical hypotheses suggest ways that cultural meanings shape how lawyers experience their daily work lives and have broad implications for the gender hierarchy in high-powered workplaces.
The Impact of Short Intensive Care Rotation on Residents’ Experience in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Khan Muhammad F. , Aziz Ayesha , Riaz Qamar , Ghaffar Waleed B. , Khan Fiza , Latif Asad
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To assess the impact and utility of an intensive care unit (ICU) rotation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the need for mandatory ICU rotations in training for all clinical specialties.

Methods

A mixed methods study was conducted from January to September 2021 at the Aga Khan University Hospital, including resident doctors who rotated through COVID ICU between May and September 2020. An online survey was undertaken, followed by two focused group discussions (FGDs).

Results

Fifty-nine complete responses out of a total of 86 were analyzed. Around 42.3% (n = 25) of doctors belonged to medicine/allied specialties and 57.6% (n = 34) had previous ICU experience. Both groups, with and without prior ICU experience, found the rotation equally challenging (82.3% (n = 28) versus 84% (n = 21), P = .776) and gained similar practical skills (35.3% (n = 12) versus 16% (n = 4), P = .072), however, those with experience gained significantly more knowledge (58.5% (n = 20) versus 32% (n = 8), P = .047). On opinion regarding mandatory ICU rotation, the majority agreed to have a mandatory rotation (82% (n = 28) versus 72% (n = 18), P = .421)) with an optimal duration of 1 to 2 months. The FGDs found that all residents encouraged the idea of mandatory training in ICU which must be tailored to their training specialty and suggested extending the duration beyond 1 week to ensure learning.

Conclusions

COVID ICU rotation was a good avenue for learning and the idea of mandatory ICU training was supported. Mandating ICU rotation might theoretically enhance response to emergencies. More research is needed to understand for feasible incorporation of ICU training in the curriculum.
Social Entrepreneurship for Empowerment and Inclusive Business Model among Meghalaya Rubber Farmers
Authors: Thomas Robin , Lukose P. J.
Published: December 2023

This article examines the case of a rubber grower cooperative in the East Garo Hills of Meghalaya, North East India, which has been crucial in organising the tribal communities for collective action and scaling up rubber development programs in the area. Data were collected from a sample of 200 individual farmers from the Meghalaya rubber plantation and conducted an in-depth interview on inclusive business models in this particular area. The descriptive and explorative research design was applied with an objective to measure the empowerment of Meghalaya rubber farmers, study their problems and find out the scope of the inclusive business model for rubber farmers in Meghalaya. The result of this study demonstrates that start-up choices are emphatically connected to the opening of opportunities, genuine leadership and risk-taking parts of social business.
Erythroid Differentiation Dependent Interaction of VPS13A with XK at the Plasma Membrane of K562 Cells
Authors: Amos Chase , Xu Peng , De Camilli Pietro
Published: December 2023

Mutations of the bridge-like lipid transport protein VPS13A and the lipid scramblase XK result in Chorea Acanthocytosis (ChAc) and McLeod syndrome (MLS), respectively, two similar conditions involving neurodegeneration and deformed erythrocytes (acanthocytes). VPS13A binds XK, suggesting a model in which VPS13A forms a lipid transport bridge between the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the plasma membrane (PM), where XK resides. However, studies of VPS13A in HeLa and COS7 cells showed that this protein localizes primarily at contacts of the ER with mitochondria. Overexpression of XK in these cells redistributed VPS13A to the biosynthetic XK pool in the ER but not to PM-localized XK. Colocalization of VPS13A with XK at the PM was only observed if overexpressed XK harbored mutations that disengaged its VPS13A-binding site from an intramolecular interaction. As the acanthocytosis phenotype of ChAc and MLS suggests a role of the two proteins in cells of the erythroid lineage, we explored their localization in K562 cells, which differentiate into erythroblasts upon hemin addition. When tagged VPS13A was overexpressed in hemin-treated K562 cells, robust formation of ER–PM contacts positive for VPS13A was observed and their formation was abolished in XK KO cells. ER–PM contacts positive for VPS13A were seldom observed in undifferentiated K562 cells, despite the presence of XK in these cells at concentrations similar to those observed after differentiation. These findings reveal that the interaction of VPS13A with XK at ER–PM contacts requires a permissive state which depends upon cell type and/or functional state of the cell.
The development of an advanced diploma program for palliative care leaders in Chile
Authors: Stoltenberg Mark , Leiva-Vásquez Ofelia , Pérez-Cruz Pedro E. , Daubman Bethany-Rose
Published: December 2023

Context:

The majority of people with serious health-related suffering in low- and middle-income countries lack access to palliative care (PC). Increased access to PC education is greatly needed.

Objectives:

This paper describes the process to adapt an advanced PC training course for a Chilean context.

Methods:

A joint team of intercultural PC educators from the US and Chile conducted a series of key informant interviews and a target audience survey to iteratively design a PC training course in Chile.

Results:

Eight key informant interviews identified a strong need for formal PC education pathways, confirmed the five central learning domains, and helped to identify potential course sub-topics. A target audience survey of 59 PC providers from across Chile confirmed a strong desire to participate in such a course.

Conclusion:

Our team of intercultural PC educators adapted an advanced PC course to the unique context of Chilean providers.
Socio-metabolic practices and heterogeneous sanitation infrastructures in urbanizing China
Authors: Liu Qi , Iossifova Deljana
Published: December 2023

The transformation of urban sanitation is critical to achieving sustainable development. However, recent research challenges the assumption that the networked sanitation systems of the industrialized world are universally desirable. Instead, there is a growing call for practice-oriented scholarship and policy-making that start with an analysis of what people actually do in their everyday lives as they interact with differentiated, decentralized, or alternative sanitation infrastructures. This paper explores the relationship between sanitation infrastructures and socio-political urban geographies, and investigates how sanitation practices are shaped by and, in turn, shape human ecosystems in rapidly urbanizing contexts. We propose a refined human ecosystem framework (HEF) that foregrounds the role of embodied practices in mediating between material and social domains within the unequal, politicized, and contentious processes of urban metabolism. Using contemporary Shanghai as a case study, we examine the socio-material-temporal characteristics of existing sanitation practices and their connections to heterogeneous sanitation infrastructures. Through this, we demonstrate how cultural beliefs and social norms shape infrastructure functionality and the broader sustainability of sanitation systems. This paper contributes to the ongoing debate on the politics of sanitation infrastructure and highlights the need for context-specific approaches to sanitation planning and implementation that center on local practices.
Challenges of treating catatonia in the community setting without access to electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Torrico Tyler , Shaheen Shahzeb , Weinstein David , Padhy Ranjit , Salam Md. Towhid
Published: December 2023

Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome resulting from an underlying psychiatric or medical disorder commonly observed in inpatient psychiatric units. While benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are effective treatment options, the unavailability of ECT in many community psychiatric hospitals in the United States negatively affects patient outcomes. We present a 25-year-old African American male with a psychiatric diagnosis of schizophrenia complicated by malignant catatonia who was admitted to a community psychiatric hospital. He required intensive medical stabilization with supportive management, and transfer requests to ECT-equipped hospitals were initiated. While awaiting transfer for 148 days, the patient’s symptoms did not fully remit with lorazepam (even with 36 mg daily in divided doses) and other psychotropic medication trials, including antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. After nearly 5 months of inpatient stay, he was successfully transferred, received ECT treatment, and experienced rapid resolution of catatonia. After discharge, to obtain three monthly sessions of maintenance ECT, he had 5-h one-way ground transportation arranged to an out-of-county ECT-equipped facility. There was no relapse in catatonia by the 2-year follow-up. This report highlights a significant healthcare disparity when attempting to manage severe catatonia within community hospital settings without access to ECT in the United States. Alternative treatments, including antipsychotics, had minimal impact on symptoms and possibly increased morbidity in this case while awaiting ECT. Treatment at our designated safety net hospital still required referral to 14 ECT-equipped hospitals before successful transfer. This case highlights the urgent need for ECT availability in more community hospitals to treat patients with refractory psychiatric conditions, including catatonia. ECT is an essential psychiatric treatment that, for certain conditions, has no appropriate alternatives. We propose that access to ECT be considered in the determination of safety net hospital systems, with improved ability to transfer patients who are suffering from treatable life-threatening mental health conditions.
Circulating small extracellular vesicles microRNAs plus CA-125 for treatment stratification in advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhou Xiaofang , Liu Mu , Sun Lijuan , Cao Yumei , Tan Shanmei , Luo Guangxia , Liu Tingting , Yao Ying , Xiao Wangli , Wan Ziqing , Tang Jie
Published: December 2023

Background

No residual disease (R0 resection) after debulking surgery is the most critical independent prognostic factor for advanced ovarian cancer (AOC). There is an unmet clinical need for selecting primary or interval debulking surgery in AOC patients using existing prediction models.

Methods

RNA sequencing of circulating small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) was used to discover the differential expression microRNAs (DEMs) profile between any residual disease (R0, n = 17) and no residual disease (non-R0, n = 20) in AOC patients. We further analyzed plasma samples of AOC patients collected before surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy via TaqMan qRT-PCR. The combined risk model of residual disease was developed by logistic regression analysis based on the discovery-validation sets.

Results

Using a comprehensive plasma small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) microRNAs (miRNAs) profile in AOC, we identified and optimized a risk prediction model consisting of plasma sEVs-derived 4-miRNA and CA-125 with better performance in predicting R0 resection. Based on 360 clinical human samples, this model was constructed using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and logistic regression analysis, and it has favorable calibration and discrimination ability (AUC:0.903; sensitivity:0.897; specificity:0.910; PPV:0.926; NPV:0.871). The quantitative evaluation of Net Reclassification Improvement (NRI) and Integrated Discrimination Improvement (IDI) suggested that the additional predictive power of the combined model was significantly improved contrasted with CA-125 or 4-miRNA alone (NRI = 0.471, IDI = 0.538, p < 0.001; NRI = 0.122, IDI = 0.185, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Overall, we established a reliable, non-invasive, and objective detection method composed of circulating tumor-derived sEVs 4-miRNA plus CA-125 to preoperatively anticipate the high-risk AOC patients of residual disease to optimize clinical therapy.
Crescentic glomerulonephritis associated with syphilis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kaiga Akiko , Sato Yuka , Arakawa Haruna , Rai Tatemitsu , Tojo Akihiro
Published: December 2023

Background

Crescentic glomerulonephritis with syphilis infection is rare, and the mechanism underlying the formation of glomerular capillary wall damage-induced crescent has not been elucidated.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old Japanese male showed edema, eruption, and rapid deterioration of the renal function after an acute syphilis infection. A renal biopsy showed crescentic glomerulonephritis with C3 deposition in the glomerular capillary wall, and immunostaining for anti-Treponema pallidum antibody was weakly positive in some interstitium and one glomerulus. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of string-shaped structures in the glomerular capillary walls. After treatment with penicillin followed by prednisolone, the renal function and urinary abnormalities, including Treponema pallidum protein, disappeared.

Conclusions

Crescentic glomerulonephritis associated with syphilis showed a string-shaped deposition in the glomerular capillary and urinary Treponema pallidum protein excretion, and was effectively treated with penicillin and prednisolone.
New refinements of the Cauchy–Bunyakovsky inequality
Authors: Montazeri Saeed
Published: December 2023

This paper presents new refinements on the integral form of Cauchy–Schwartz inequality known as Cauchy–Bunyakovsky inequality. It is proved that when we possess a weighted sum of a set of Cauchy–Bunyakovsky inequalities, there are two forms of refinements enhancing the precision of the original inequality. The superiority of one refinement over the other depends on the problem in which the presented theorem is utilized.
An overview of food insecurity during the global COVID-19 outbreak: transformative change and priorities for the Middle East
Authors: Doustmohammadian Azam , Fadavi Ghasem , Alibeyk Sepide , Hajigholam-Saryazdi Maryam , Mohammadi-Nasrabadi Fatemeh
Published: December 2023

The consequences of COVID-19 on the economy and agriculture have raised many concerns about global food security, especially in Middle Eastern countries, where unsustainable farming practices are widespread. Regarding the unprecedented crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of early implementation of prevention programs, it is essential to understand better its potential impacts on various food security dimensions and indicators in these countries. In this scoping review, research databases were searched using a search strategy and keywords developed in collaboration with librarians. The review includes community trials and observational studies in all population groups. Two researchers separately conducted the literature search, study selection, and data extraction. A narrative synthesis was implemented to summarize the findings. The impacts of COVID-19 on three of four dimensions of food security through the food and nutrition system were identified: availability, accessibility, and stability. Disruption of financial exchanges, transportation, and closing of stores led to reduced production, processing, and distribution sub-systems. Rising unemployment, quitting some quarantined jobs, increasing medical healthcare costs, and increasing food basket prices in the consumption sub-system lead to lower access to required energy and nutrients, especially in the lower-income groups. Increased micronutrient deficiency and decreased immunity levels, increased overweight, obesity and non-communicable diseases would also occur. The current review results predict the effect of COVID-19 on food security, especially in vulnerable populations, and develop effective interventions. This review provides information for policymakers to better understand the factors influencing the implementation of these interventions and inform decision-making to improve food security.

PROSPERO identifier: CRD42020185843.
Nanoscale inhomogeneity and the evolution of correlation strength in FeSe$$_{1-x}$$S$$_x$$
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Aifeng , Du Qianheng , Wu Lijun , Zhu Yimei , Petrovic Cedomir
Published: December 2023

We report a comprehensive study of the nanoscale inhomogeneity and disorder on the thermoelectric properties of FeSe$$_{1-x}$$

1
-
x

S$$_x$$

x

($$0 \le x \le 1$$

0
≤
x
≤
1

) single crystals and the evolution of correlation strength with S substitution. A hump-like feature in temperature-dependent thermpower is enhanced for x = 0.12 and 0.14 in the nematic region with increasing in orbital-selective electronic correlations, which is strongly suppressed across the nematic critical point and for higher S content. Nanoscale Se/S atom disorder in the tetrahedral surroundings of Fe atoms is confirmed by scanning transmission electron microscopy measurements, providing an insight into the nanostructural details and the evolution of correlation strength in FeSe$$_{1-x}$$

1
-
x

S$$_x$$

x

.
First-episode psychosis intervention programme versus standard care for the clinical management of early phases of psychosis: cost analysis
Authors: Ibarrondo Oliver , Recio-Barbero María , Ustarroz Iker , Cabezas-Garduño Janire , Mentxaka Oihane , Acaiturri Teresa , Gómez Elisa , Segarra Rafael
Published: December 2023

Background

Early intervention programmes (EIPs) in psychosis have gained attention as specialised interventions to improve health-related and societal impacts for people with psychotic disorders. Previous studies have presented evidence in favour of EIPs over the first year of intervention, despite none considering the critical period before psychosis onset (5 years).

Aims

To compare the associated costs of the First Episode Psychosis Intervention Program (CRUPEP) and treatment as usual (TAU) in a real-world cohort in a non-specialised psychiatric community setting.

Method

Direct and indirect mental health-related costs were calculated over 1 year and up to 7 years. Healthcare and societal costs were calculated from economic data related to the consumption of all healthcare resources, including emergency department attendances, hospital admissions, psychotropic medication prescriptions and societal costs.

Results

From a healthcare perspective, the intervention (CRUPEP) group initially showed a marginally higher cost per patient than the TAU group (€7621 TAU group v. €11 904 CRUPEP group) over the first year of follow-up. However, this difference was reversed between the groups on considering the entire follow-up, with the TAU group showing considerably higher associated costs per patient (€77 026 TAU v. €25 247 CRUPEP).

Conclusions

The EIP (CRUPEP) showed clinical benefits and minimised the direct and indirect health-related costs of the management of psychosis. Although the CRUPEP intervention initially reported increased costs over 1 year, TAU surpassed the global costs over the entire follow-up.
The BJPsych journals: open for business and faster than a speeding bullet in advancing psychiatry internationally
Authors: Malhi Gin S.
Published: December 2023

The Royal College of Psychiatry journals have an outstanding reputation for excellence, integrity and impact in psychiatry. Facilitated by Cambridge University Press, which is equally steeped in tradition, the family of College journals remains committed to enriching our understanding of mental science and exploring the clinical issues that matter.
Intradural Pituitary Hemitransposition: Technical Note and Case Series Illustration
Authors: Almeida Joao Paulo , Finger Guilherme , Weber Matthieu D. , Damante Mark A. , Wu Kyle C. , Walz Patrick , Leonard Jeffrey R. , Carrau Ricardo L. , Prevedello Daniel M.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Lesions located in the retrosellar region, interpeduncular cistern, and petroclival region are among the most difficult to access in neurosurgery. Transcranial approaches are useful; however, the large distance between the surgeon and the lesion as well as the presence of major neurovascular structures surrounding the lesion may limit surgical exposure. A midline transsphenoidal route avoids transgression of the neurovascular plane and provides direct access to the interpeduncular cistern. To safely access the interpeduncular fossa, it requires mobilization of the pituitary gland. The pituitary hemitransposition technique permits mobilization of the gland, while preserving its venous drainage and arterial supply to the gland on one of its sides, preserving gland function. The authors aim to describe the intradural pituitary hemitransposition technique and to demonstrate its safe application for resection of skull base tumors in the retrosellar space.

METHODS:

The authors describe the surgical technique and illustrate its application in 5 cases of different types of skull base tumors, including a video demonstrating all the steps to perform this approach. In addition, the authors discuss the advantages and limitations of this technique compared with other approaches to the retrosellar space.

RESULTS:

The intradural pituitary hemitransposition technique was used to safely resect a chondrosarcoma, chordoma, craniopharyngioma, teratoma, and meningioma involving the parasellar and retrosellar spaces, while minimizing endocrine morbidity. We had one patient with mild, albeit permanent hyperprolactinemia and hypothyroidism after surgery. No other patients had permanent dysfunction related to surgery.

CONCLUSION:

The endonasal endoscopic intradural pituitary hemitransposition approach is an effective technique for resection of lesions located within the retrosellar and petroclival regions, allowing adequate exposure while potentially optimizing the preservation of the pituitary function.
Adaptation of the Agro-Food Complex to the Consequences of Global Climate Change in the System of Strategic Planning in the Russian Federation
Authors: Kadomtseva Marina
Published: December 2023

The climate trend has increasingly begun to appear in various aspects of life. Agricultural and food systems are the most affected by climate change. The socio-economic significance of the influence of the climatic factor is determined by the imbalance in agricultural production, a sharp reduction in its carry-over stocks, which poses a threat to Russia's food security. The article discusses the current practice of legal, organizational and managerial regulation of the issues of adaptation of the Russian agri-food complex to the consequences of climate change. A meaningful analysis of the documents laying the contours of the state policy in the field of climate, as well as regulating the sustainable development of the Russian agro-industrial complex, was carried out. Particular attention is paid to the succession of targets, the internal contingency of the documents being developed at various levels of management and planning stages. It has been established that in the current adaptive branch system, such features as inconsistency and episodic nature are preserved. The objective necessity of working out the methodological issues of forming an indicative system for evaluative and predictive support of management decisions in the field of adaptation is shown; statistical provision using alternative data sources, digital tools and innovative methods for processing unstructured data. The conclusions drawn in the article will serve as the basis for developing practical recommendations for building a systematic work of state authorities at various levels in the agro-industrial complex in order to create conditions for its sustainable development in the context of long-term climate change.
Structure of readiness for further training among students of grades 7–9
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Otroshchenko Nataliia
Published: December 2023

The article states that today the role of the institution of general secondary education as an active environment for the personal formation of future specialists capable of conscious choice and development of various professional training programs and activities that meet the requirements of educational and professional standards, the needs of society and the interests of the person himself is being updated. It is noted that now we observe a systematic lag in the social and professional orientation of students from the demands of the labor market. The author provides his own understanding of the structure of readiness as an integral property of the individual, which acts as a set of incentive and executive regulations, the unity of volitional and intellectual qualities, the unity of personal-motivational and professional-performing components. Readiness for further training is considered as the inner conviction of the student and awareness of the importance of the correct choice of profession in life, as an element of a healthy lifestyle in general, sufficiency of knowledge and ideas about the world of professions, professional requirements for psychological characteristics and the state of human health. The following structural components of readiness for further learning of students in Grades 7–9 are identified and characterized: intellectual, motivational, emotionalvolitional and social.