bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Anticoagulant Therapy Versus Antiplatelet Therapy in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Yan Xiaodi , Wang Baoyan , Xia Peng , Lan Chen , Wang Qian , Ge Weihong , Zhou Yujie , Jiang Chenxiao
Published: November 2023

The efficacy and safety of anticoagulant therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and atrial fibrillation (AF) remain uncertain. This study enrolled 431 AIS and AF patients from Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between January 2019 and December 2021 and followed for 365 days to determine the associations between anticoagulants and clinical outcomes by assessing modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, recurrent ischemic stroke/systemic embolism (IS/SE), all-cause mortality, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) and major bleeding. Final analysis included 400 eligible patients and divided them into antiplatelet group (n  =  191) and anticoagulant group (n  =  209). Anticoagulant therapy was associated with excellent (mRS 0–1; adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.63; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.61–4.30) and favorable functional outcomes (mRS 0–2; aOR, 2.82; 95% CI, 1.69–4.70) and lower risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 0.35; 95% CI, 0.21–0.57), ICH (aHR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.23–0.87) and major bleeding (aHR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.28–0.94), without increasing the risk of recurrent IS/SE (aHR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.45–1.24). In conclusion, anticoagulant therapy may be a more effective and safer option than antiplatelet therapy for AIS patients with AF.
Adaptive sliding mode attitude control of 2-degrees-of-freedom helicopter system with actuator saturation and disturbances
Authors: Li Ruobing , Lei Changyi , Shi Baiyang , Zhu Quanmin , Yue Xicai
Published: November 2023

The modelling uncertainties, external disturbance and actuator saturation issues will degrade the performance and even the safety of flight. To improve control performance, this study proposes an adaptive U-model based double sliding control (UDSMC) algorithm combined with a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) for a nonlinear two-degrees-of-freedom (2-DOF) helicopter system. Firstly, the adaptive RBFNN is designed to approximate the system dynamics with unknown uncertainties. Furthermore, two adaptive laws are designed to deal with unknown external disturbances and actuator saturation errors. The global stability of the proposed helicopter control system is rigorously guaranteed by the Lyapunov stability analysis, realizing precise attitude tracking control. Finally, the comparative experiments with conventional SMC and adaptive SMC algorithms conducted on the Quanser Aero2 platform demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed 2-DOF helicopter control algorithm.
The Invisible Minority: Stigma and Sexual and Gender Diversity in Health Care
Authors: Francis Isabel , Buscemi Charles
Published: November 2023

This analysis elucidates the concept of stigma in the sexual and gender diverse population, and how it impacts interactions with the health-care system. Significant research into social determinants of health has given rise to a greater understanding of their impact on health-care accessibility and utilization. The impact of stigma experienced by persons with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations has not been similarly studied. Utilizing Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis and the Minority Stress Model, this article explicates stigma in an inclusive manner that directly addresses health care. Records retrieved from PubMed, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsychINFO were screened for inclusion, supplemented by editorials and seminal earlier works. Review of the literature clarified the power imbalance perpetuating stigma, its defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences. Although the preponderance of consequences are negative outcomes, positive interactions with providers can empower sexual and gender diverse individuals to disclose their identity more willingly, navigate the health system effectively, and experience greater well-being. Nurses can combat stigma by acknowledging and respecting diverse identities; creating trusting, co-equal relationships; and advocating for sexual and gender diverse persons at both practice and policy levels.
A comprehensive overview of diagnosis, imaging and treatment of vitreoretinal lymphoma
Authors: Menean Matteo , Giuffrè Chiara , Cicinelli Maria Vittoria , Marchese Alessandro , Modorati Giulio , Bandello Francesco , Miserocchi Elisabetta
Published: November 2023

Vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) is a rare B-cell intraocular neoplasia characterized by poor long-term prognosis and lack of effective therapies. It mainly involves the vitreous humor, the retina, and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), although anterior segment involvement can occur. VRL is classified as a lymphoma of immune privileged sites, along with testis lymphoma and primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). VRL and PCNSL are strictly connected indeed: 80% of VRL develop PCNSL, while 20% of patients with PCNSL present VRL during natural history of lymphoma. Due to the lack of worldwide consensus about diagnosis, therapy, and follow-up timing, VRL represents one of the most challenging ocular affections.

VRL commonly masquerades as a posterior uveitis, and misdiagnosis often occurs because of partial response to topical steroids. Gold standard for diagnosis is cytological analysis of vitreous humor. However, this technique lacks sensitivity and supplemental molecular analyses can improve the diagnostic process. Multimodal imaging allows ophthalmologists to empower their clinical suspicion and a comprehensive examination can highlight typical features of VRL and justify further invasive procedures.

There is no consensus about VRL therapy, and none of the therapeutical scheme has demonstrated to prevent cerebral involvement and improve patient's overall survival. Intravitreal injections of chemotherapeutics drugs, ocular radiation therapy and systemic chemotherapy can be considered in the treatment of VRL. Once cerebral involvement occurs, systemic chemotherapy must be included in the treatment as a life-saving therapy. Further multicentric studies are required to find out the best treatment of patients with VRL.
Use of a subpalpebral lavage system as salvage therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa panophthalmitis due to an infected scleral buckle
Authors: Gupta Neha , Weisenthal Robert , Swan Robert T. , Spalding Samuel C. , Breazzano Mark P.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To present a case and surgical technique for management of Pseudomonas aeruginosa panophthalmitis secondary to an infected scleral buckle.

Methods

Surgical technique video for management of an infected scleral buckle resulting in panophthalmitis with scleral buckle and suture explant and insertion of a subpalpebral lavage system.

Results

After two months, the visual acuity was restored to hand motion, likely secondary to a fibrotic secondary membrane, and the retina remain attached. This reports the first description of globe salvage for panophthalmitis from a P. aeruginosa-infected scleral buckle.

Conclusion

This case encourages surgeons to remove all aspects of an exposed scleral buckle, including sutures, and emphasizes the importance of routine culture of all explanted material, even in the absence of clinical infection. In addition, this case encourages the use of a subpalpebral lavage in cases of severe P. aeruginosa ocular infections.
Simulation of electrical contact wear on the rough surfaces of ultra-high-voltage transmission line fittings
Authors: Yang Xianchen , Li Xinmei , Wang Songchen
Published: November 2023

A novel electrical contact wear simulation method was proposed to characterize the electrical contact wear of fittings in ultra-high-voltage transmission lines by combining line fittings with the Archard wear model and oxidation loss theory. In this method, a three-dimensional (3D) rough body was generated by using the Weierstrass–Mandelbrot fractal function to simulate the contact surface. An electrical contact wear subroutine was developed, and the wear state was updated using arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian adaptive grid technology. Finally, finite element software was used to perform thermal stress wear coupled analysis. The results show that the wear volume, wear depth and friction temperature obtained by the rough electric contact model were 2.71 times, 4.21 times and 2.18 times of the common ideal plane model, respectively. In the rough model, the wear depth of the nodes initially accelerated, subsequently slowed down, and again accelerated with time. The friction high temperature region was distributed in a point pattern, and the temperature difference between the contact region and the non-contact region became obvious.
The effect of ibudilast on thalamic volume in progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nicholson Showly , Russo Andrew W , Brewer Kristina , Bien Heidi , Tobyne Sean M , Eloyan Ani , Klawiter Eric C
Published: November 2023

Background:

Thalamic volume loss is known to be associated with clinical and cognitive disability in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS).

Objective:

To investigate the treatment effect of ibudilast on thalamic atrophy more than 96 weeks in the phase 2 trial in progressive(MS Secondary and Primary Progressive Ibudilast NeuroNEXT Trial in Multiple Sclerosis [SPRINT-MS]).

Methods:

A total of 231 participants were randomized to either ibudilast ( n = 114) or placebo ( n = 117). Thalamic volume change was computed using Bayesian Sequence Adaptive Multimodal Segmentation tool (SAMseg) incorporating T1, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and fractional anisotropy maps and analyzed with a mixed-effects repeated-measures model.

Results:

There was no significant difference in thalamic volumes between treatment groups. On exploratory analysis, participants with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) on placebo had a 0.004% greater rate of thalamic atrophy than PPMS participants on ibudilast ( p = 0.058, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.008 to <0.001). Greater reductions in thalamic volumes at more than 96 weeks were associated with worsening multiple sclerosis functional composite (MSFC-4) scores ( p = 0.002) and worsening performance on the symbol digit modality test (SDMT) ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

In a phase 2 trial evaluating ibudilast in PMS, no treatment effect was demonstrated in preventing thalamic atrophy. Participants with PPMS exhibited a treatment effect that trended toward significance. Longitudinal changes in thalamic volume were related to worsening of physical and cognitive disability, highlighting this outcome’s clinical importance.
Vanilla normies and fellow pervs: Boundary work on sexual platforms
Authors: Tiidenberg Katrin , Paasonen Susanna , Sunden Jenny , Vihlman Maria
Published: November 2023

Building on a study of three Nordic and Baltic digital sexual platforms, this article analyzes the perceptions of enjoyable sex and sexual belonging among 60 people, who self-identify as sexually liberal. In dialogue with Gayle Rubin’s formative work on sexual hierarchies and “good sex,” we explore our participants’ complex and often ambiguous sexual boundary work to delineate liberated sex. Independent of particular preferences (non-monogamy, BDSM, fetishism, and exhibitionism), liberated sex for our participants is definitionally enjoyable and articulated via an aspirational hierarchy based on willingness, diversity/variability, and self-reflexivity—partly set against national sexual imaginaries of vanilla normalcy, yet allowing vanilla some gradations and nuances.
Self-sensing nano-engineered ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) under tension
Authors: Ralli Zoi G , Akhtarian Shiva , Pantazopoulou Stavroula J , Perry Vic
Published: November 2023

With the addition of electrically conductive steel or carbon fibers, Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) possesses an intrinsic self-sensing capability. This opens up the possibility of combining the resilience and sustainability of UHPC with the development of self-sensing solutions for structural applications. In this study, the self-sensing behaviour of a proprietary nano-engineered UHPC material subjected to tension was investigated. To assess the self-sensing performance of the material, bulk resistivity measurements were used on direct tension and pure flexure tests, while a novel wireless approach that operates on was used on out-of-plane bending tests. The wireless approach used alternate current (AC) measurements while the bulk resistivity methods were performed through direct current (DC) and the four-probe method. In both methods, the fractional change in resistance was correlated to the state of deformation. The disposition of the actual strain field was evaluated using Digital Image Correlation (DIC). It was found that in the case of direct tension and pure flexure, the fractional change of resistance was initially decreased up to the onset of strain localization, while it gradually increased in the post-peak range, where the separation of the localized crack gradually increased. In the case of the wireless approach using AC, the onset of cracking was successfully predicted with an abrupt increase in resistivity. The wireless strain-sensing approach also captured the Poisson’s effect due to the loading.
Long-term social assistance recipients’ experiences with an increased monthly payment: a qualitative pilot study
Authors: Torbjørnsen Astrid , Utne Inger , Løyland Borghild
Published: November 2023

Aims:

Ten long-term social assistance recipients in a Norwegian municipality received a greater-than-average fixed monthly payment for 12 months. This study aimed to explore whether these recipients with reduced administrative requirements and a fixed monthly payment that was greater than the average social assistance experienced reduced poverty, increased feelings of independence, better daily living, and an improved quality of life.

Methods:

The study’s explorative design included 20 qualitative, in-depth, semi-structured interviews and a longitudinal electronic survey for 12 months. The 10 participants had been selected by the local labour and welfare agency based on stringent criteria and are therefore not representative of social assistance recipients in general. Individual interviews were conducted during autumn 2021 and spring 2022. The interview data were analysed using systematic text condensation, and the survey results are presented using descriptive statistics.

Results:

The participants included in the project described a reduced experience of poverty. They could buy additional items and set aside money, something they had not been able to do in the past, and meant a great deal to them. They expressed experiencing freedom, gaining a stronger sense of independence, and having lessened feelings of shame. Many of the participants described health issues that were incompatible with working.

Conclusions:

Being given this opportunity led to a feeling of increased dignity and greater inclusion in society among this selected group of participants. They appreciated the simplified conditions and reduced requirements for administrative matters. All expressed that spending 8 months without contact with the social welfare office was a liberation.
Still facing the ‘paper ceiling’? Exploring gender differences in political news coverage of the last decade
Authors: Andrich Aliya , Domahidi Emese
Published: November 2023

In the present study, we investigate gender bias against politicians in a large set of news articles ( n = 1,139,571) published in major media outlets in the United States between 2010 and 2020 by tracing changes in reporting about 1,095 US politicians. Using topic modeling with latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA), we identify main policy-related topics in media reports. We find gender differences in the coverage of certain policy issues, with major imbalances explained by societal factors. Specifically, we show that women in high-level political positions receive less media coverage than their male counterparts and women in less powerful positions on economic and national security issues. However, women and men in less influential positions do not differ in the amount and type of reporting they garner. Since women are still underrepresented in leadership positions, the US media may inadvertently reflect and reinforce existing gender biases in society by devoting more attention to high-profile politicians, who are overwhelmingly male. Although our longitudinal analysis shows positive changes, the gender gap in reporting continues to exist.
Heritage hotels: An exploration of staff experiences in these unique hospitality environments
Authors: Marghany Mostafa , Morgan Nigel , Finniear Jocelyn , White Paul
Published: November 2023

Heritage hotels play a significant role in the hotel sector, preserving cultural heritage and delivering authentic and unique guest experiences and economic value to destinations. As such, they are an important but under-researched hotel operation. They range in size and star rating and can be boutique and/or upscale luxury hotels, independently owned and operated or managed by one of the large international hotel chains. There are three types of heritage hotels: original, simulated, and converted. The first are hotels whose purpose has remained unchanged since their inception and, despite modernization, retain their originality. The second are simulated heritage hotels, which are associated with symbolic heritage elements. The third are historic structures (castles, cathedrals, palaces, etc.) that have been repurposed and converted into hotels, imbuing them with new symbolic and economic meanings. This research note investigates the third type of heritage hotels. These are buildings rich in history, a sense of place and hold cultural meanings for their localities and communities. The note employs an exploratory, qualitative research strategy and reports data from semi-structured in-depth interviews with 16 customer-facing employees and managers in three independently owned and operated United Kingdom (UK) rural boutique heritage hotels. This qualitative approach provided an opportunity to attain depth in revealing the participants’ service experiences and encounters. The research note advances extant scholarship, which has examined employee interactions in small heritage accommodations as emotional and individualised guest experiences. It suggests that historic sites repurposed as heritage hotels have distinctive qualities, setting them apart from other hotels as hospitality environments. As such, their staff regard themselves as stewards and storytellers of local culture as much as receptionists, servers, etc. It concludes by advancing possibilities for further research on this conceptualization of heritage hotel employees.
The Determinants and Consequences of Living Donor Discussion Direction
Authors: Roberts Mary K , Daw Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Living donor discussions in which kidney transplant candidates discuss living kidney donation with their social network are an important step in the living donor kidney transplant process. No prior research has investigated whether who initiates discussion or influences evaluation agreement rates or how these processes may contribute to disparities. Research Questions: This study aimed to determine how common candidate- and potential-donor-initiated discussions were, at what rate each discussion type resulted in agreement to be evaluated for living donation, and what sociodemographic characteristics predicted living donor discussion and agreements. Design: A 2015 cross-sectional survey at a single, large Southeastern US transplant center measured kidney transplant candidates’ social networks, including whether they had a donor discussion, who initiated it, and whether the discussion resulted in the donor evaluation agreement. Candidate-network member pairs’ probability of having a candidate-initiated discussion, potential-living donor-initiated discussion, or no discussions were compared in multinomial logistic regression, and the probability of the discussion resulted in evaluation agreement was evaluated in multinomial logistic regression. Results: Sixty-six kidney transplant candidates reported on 1421 social network members. Most (80%) candidate/network-member pairs did not have a living donor discussion, with candidate-initiated discussions (11%) slightly more common than potential-donor-initiated discussions (10%). Evaluation agreement was much more common for potential-donor-initiated (72%) than for candidate-initiated discussions (39%). Potential-donor-initiated discussions were more common for White candidates (16%) than for Black candidates (7%). Conclusion: Potential-donor-initiated discussions resulted in evaluation agreement much more frequently than candidate-initiated discussions. This dynamic may contribute to racial living donation disparities.
Analysis of cord stress during tire dynamic longitudinal slip
Authors: Chen Luwen , Sun Pengfei , Zhou Shuiting , Meng Junling , Qian Chao , Sun Xin
Published: November 2023

Selected 215/55 R17 radial tires for material test to obtain relevant material parameters. Used these parameters to build a finite element model and conduct longitudinal slip simulation. The relationship between longitudinal force and slip rate at different speeds and loads was determined by tire longitudinal slip tests. Then the longitudinal slip simulation results were compared with the test results to verify the feasibility of the model. The circumferential and axial rebar force of the belt layer at different speeds and the extreme value of the circumferential rebar force on the reverse-envelope of different skeleton materials were analyzed. The results show that: in the static state, the cord force of the belt layer had shown a trend consistent with the direction of the cord arrangement. As the speed increased, the belt cord force exhibited significant fluctuations and asymmetry. The rebar force of the turn-up points on the belt and ply is significantly smaller compared to the fetal crown ply. The rebar force at the fetal crown and belt wrapping points at 60 km/h was smaller than at 40 km/h and 80 km/h. The cord force of the fetal crown ply and the belt ply is much more affected by the load than that of the ply.
Integrating Therapeutic Ultrasound With Nanosized Drug Delivery Systems in the Battle Against Cancer
Authors: Moradi Kashkooli Farshad , Jakhmola Anshuman , Ferrier Graham A. , Hornsby Tyler K. , Tavakkoli Jahangir (Jahan) , Kolios Michael C.
Published: November 2023

Controlled, localized, and timely activation of nanosized drug delivery systems (NSDDSs), using an external stimulus such as therapeutic ultrasound (TUS), can improve the efficacy of cancer treatments compared to either conventional chemotherapy methods or passive NSDDSs alone. Specifically, TUS induces thermal and mechanical effects that trigger drug release from NSDDSs and overcomes drug delivery barriers in tumor microenvironments to allow nanoparticle drug carriers to penetrate more deeply into tumor tissue while minimizing side effects. This review highlights recent advancements, contemplates future prospects, and addresses challenges in using TUS-mediated NSDDSs for cancer treatment, encompassing preclinical and clinical applications.
Surface fibrils on the particles of nucleocytoviruses: A review
Authors: Aquino Isabella Luiza Martins de , Barcelos Matheus Gomes , Machado Talita Bastos , Serafim Mateus Sá Magalhães , Abrahão Jônatas Santos
Published: November 2023

The capsid has a central role in viruses’ life cycle. Although one of its major functions is to protect the viral genome, the capsid may be composed of elements that, at some point, promote interaction with host cells and trigger infection. Considering the scenario of multiple origins of viruses along the viral evolution, a substantial number of capsid shapes, sizes, and symmetries have been described. In this context, capsids of giant viruses (GV) that infect protists have drawn the attention of the scientific community, especially in the last 20 years, specifically for having bacterial-like dimensions with hundreds of different proteins and exclusive features. For instance, the surface fibrils present on the mimivirus capsid are one of the most intriguing features of the known virosphere. They are 150-nm-long structures attached to a 450-nm capsid, resulting in a particle with a hairy appearance. Surface fibrils have also been described in the capsids of other nucleocytoviruses, although they may differ substantially among them. In this mini review for non-experts, we compile the most important available information on surface fibrils of nucleocytoviruses, discussing their putative functions, composition, length, organization, and origins.
Teaching Chest Tube Insertion by Blended Learning: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Tokuno Junko , Valanci-Aroesty Sofia , Uchino Hayaki , Ghitulescu Gabriela , Sirois Christian , Kaneva Pepa , Fried Gerald M. , Carver Tamara E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Emerging technologies are being incorporated in surgical education. The use of such technology should be supported by evidence that the technology neither distracts nor overloads the learner and is easy to use. To teach chest tube insertion, we developed an e-learning module, as part of a blended learning program delivered prior to in-person hands-on simulation. This pilot study was aimed to assess learning effectiveness of this blended learning, and cognitive load and the usability of e-learning.

Methods

The interactive e-learning module with multimedia content was created following learning design principles. In advance of the standard simulation, 13 first-year surgical residents were randomized into two groups: 7 received the e-learning module and online reading materials (e-learning group); 6 received only the online reading materials (controls). Knowledge was evaluated by pre-and post-tests; technical performance was assessed using a Global Rating Scale by blinded assessors. Cognitive load and usability were evaluated using rating scales.

Results

The e-learning group showed significant improvement from baseline in knowledge ( P = .047), while controls did not ( P = .500). For technical skill, 100% of residents in the e-learning group reached a predetermined proficiency level vs 60% of controls ( P = .06). The addition of e-learning was associated with lower extrinsic and greater germane cognitive load ( P = .04, .03, respectively). Usability was evaluated highly by all participants in e-learning group.

Conclusion

Interactive e-learning added to hands-on simulation led to improved learning and desired cognitive load and usability. This approach should be evaluated in teaching of other procedural skills.
Identification method for unsteady friction of tool flank for high efficiency milling cutter
Authors: Jiang Bin , Wang Binxu , Zhao Peiyi , Fan Lili , Yang Fan
Published: November 2023

Under the cutting loads of high efficiency and intermittent, the friction status between the tool flank and transition surface has time-varying characteristics, which directly affects friction and wear performance of the milling cutter. The dynamic distribution of instantaneous friction on tool flank under milling vibration needs to be revealed. In this work, the effect of milling vibration on instantaneous cutting contact relationship between milling cutter and workpiece was researched, a calculation method for the instantaneous friction velocity and friction energy consumption on tool flank was proposed. The variation of instantaneous friction between tool flank and transition surface under milling vibration was identified and evaluated by power spectral entropy and cross-correlation function. A method for identifying the unsteady friction of tool flank was proposed. The response analysis and experimental verification were conducted. The results showed that the frequency domain parameter distribution of friction energy consumption on tool flank had a strong correlation with the wear depth distribution, and was obviously sensitive to the milling parameters. The above models and methods could be used to reveal the influence of key milling process variables on unsteady friction and wear process of milling cutter’s multiple tool flank.
Correlation of circulating endothelial markers in COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit with laboratory data
Authors: Hakami Waleed , Dobie Gasim , Mobarki Abdullah A , Madkhali Aymen M , Akhter Mohmmad S. , Hakami Abdulrahim R , Nahari Mohammed H , Matari Yahya H , Essawi Khaled , Hakamy Ali , Algahtani Mohammad , Jackson Denise E , Hamali Hassan A
Published: November 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still a global concern with high morbidity and mortality rates. The role of endothelial cells in the progress of COVID-19 is well established. Therefore, the current study aimed to measure the endothelial markers and their correlation with the hematological parameters in intensive care unit-admitted COVID-19 patients. This study involved 111 adult participants, including 55 ICU-admitted patients with COVID-19 and 56 healthy controls. Levels of E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 in the plasma of the study participants were measured and correlated with hematological parameters. The study demonstrates that COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU have higher levels of E-selectin, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1 compared to healthy controls ( p < .05). These elevated levels can serve as reliable indicators of endothelial dysfunction and early markers for the detection and prediction of endothelial cell involvement in COVID-19 complications. The findings of this study suggest that increased levels of E-selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1 in patients with COVID-19 are indicative of the participation of endothelial cells in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 complications. Consequently, these endothelial markers are proposed as potential early indicators for predicting the severity of COVID-19.
The views of people using homeless services about learning disability
Authors: McKenzie Karen , Robson Ruth , Murray George , Kaczmar Matt , Metcalfe Dale , Shirley Alex
Published: November 2023

Aims

People with a learning disability are at increased risk of becoming homeless, but little is known about how learning disability is viewed by people accessing homeless services. This study aimed to obtain the views of people experiencing homelessness about learning disability, in the context of a project that was exploring how to increase identification of learning disability.

Methods

A qualitative approach was used, and 19 adults were interviewed who were receiving support from homeless services in the North-East of England. Information from the interviews was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were identified relating to understanding of learning disability, the role of identification, day-to-day challenges, and experiences of services.

Conclusion

There is a need to: promote better understanding of learning disability; for early identification processes that involve the person in a meaningful way; and the provision of support that is non-stigmatising, practical and which addresses health concerns.
Parenting Behaviors and Parental self-efficacy: A comparative study of parents of children with intellectual disabilities and typically developing children
Authors: Laçin Emre , Doğan Betül Gökçen
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the parenting behaviors and parental self-efficacy of parents of typically developing and child with an intellectual disability, considering their children’s groups of with or without intellectual disability and other relevant variables. The study involved 1194 parents with children aged 3-6 years, of whom 521 parents had children with intellectual disabilities and the remaining 673 parents had typically developing children.

Method

The data collection instruments used in this study were the Parental Behavior Scale Short Form and Parental Efficacy Scale. A t-test was used to compare parenting behavior and parental efficacy according to the child with or without an intellectual disability. In addition, MANOVA was used to compare parenting behavior and parental efficacy in relation to parents’ level of education and to examine the possible interaction effect between these two independent variables.

Results

The findings indicate that parents of typically developing children exhibit more positive parenting behaviors than parents of children with intellectual disabilities. However, the negative parenting behaviors of both groups were similar. In terms of parenting self-efficacy, parents of children with intellectual disabilities display higher self-efficacy than parents of typically developing children. The study also investigated whether there was a common effect in relation to child with or without an intellectual disability and parental education level, but no common effect was observed.

Conclusion

Positive parenting behaviors and parental self-efficacy differed according to whether child with or without an intellectual disability.
Noun imageability and the processing of sensory-based information
Authors: Gerwien Johannes , Filip Maroš , Smolík Filip
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to test whether the availability of internal imagery elicited by words is related to ratings of word imageability. Participants are presented with target words and, after a delay allowing for processing of the word, answer questions regarding the size or weight of the word referents. Target words differ with respect to imageability. Results show faster responses to questions for high imageability words than for low imageability words. The type of question (size/weight) modulates reaction times suggesting a dominance of the visual domain over the physical-experience domain in concept representation. Results hold across two different languages (Czech/German). These findings provide further insights into the representations underlying word meaning and the role of word imageability in language acquisition and processing.
A modern version of restoration comedy? Double entendre, objectification, fearful men and rakes manqué in the television work of Benny Hill
Authors: Gibbs Joseph
Published: November 2023

Benny Hill’s once globally popular (but controversial) television humour was often built around elements associated with Restoration comedy. These included double entendre; the objectification of women (which Hill in the 1980s intensified, to the detriment of his comedy and career); and themes involving men fearing women. Additionally, some of Hill’s characters had traits suggestive of those of Restoration comedy, although his men generally lacked the classic rakes’ social status and sexual success, and their frequent failures introduced into Hill’s comedy an ironic caricature of contemporary views of male sexuality and ego.
Cladonia rangiformis Acetone Extract— New Insight into the Chemical Composition and Biological Activity
Authors: Dimitrijević Ivana , Mitić Violeta , Stankov Jovanović Vesna , Stanković Miroslava , Zlatanović Ivana , Stojanović Gordana
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cladonia rangiformis, also known as reindeer lichen, has been used for various remedies in folk medicine. The rich nutritional value of this lichen is reflected in the fact that it contains atranorin, which has been proven to have numerous biological activities.

Objective

The chemical composition, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and antigenotoxic activities of the C. rangiformis acetone extract were investigated. The novelty of this work is that anticholinesterase activity, protective effect on human lymphocytes, and antioxidant activity by the cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) method of C. rangiformis extract were determined for the first time, as well as gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profile.

Methods

Chemical composition was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-diode array detector and GC-MS. Antigenotoxic effect was evaluated in human lymphocytes by cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay. Total phenolic content, DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging capacities, CUPRAC, and total reducing power were determined spectrophotometrically. Determination of acetylcholinesterase activity was performed by Ellman's colorimetry assay. The statistical analysis of variance (One-way ANOVA) was performed using Origin software package version 7.0.

Results

HPLC method was used to identified 3 compounds with atranorin as predominant constituent (97.2%). Fumarprotocetraric and atraric acid were represented in a much smaller mutually approximate amount, 0.3 and 0.5%, respectively. Rangiformic acid was the most abundant volatile compound. Acetone extract of C. rangiformis (2 μg/mL) decreased the frequency of micronuclei by 15.5% while the radioprotectant amifostine reduced the frequency of occurrence of micronuclei by 11.4%. On the contrary, at a concentration of 1.0 mg/mL the extract exhibited an activating effect on cholinesterase (2.0%), while at a concentration of 10.0 mg/mL it showed a weak inhibitory effect (7.3%). The total phenol content was 132.71 μg gallic acid equivalents per mg of dry extract. The IC50 value for the DPPH experiment was 16.19 mg/mL and for ABTS was 11.80 mg/mL. Cupric reducing capacity and total reducing power were 17.81 μg Trolox equivalents per mg of dry extract and 0.45 μg ascorbic acid equivalents per mg of dry extract, respectively.

Conclusion

In addition to previously identified compounds in the acetone extract, atraric acid was identified for the first time by using HPLC method, and orcinol, β-orcinol, lauric alcohol, atranol, and rangiformic acid by using GC-MS method. The results of biological activity proved that acetone extract had antioxidant capacity and weak anticholinesterase activity. Reduction of the number of micronuclei in human lymphocytes, classified C. rangiformis as promising substances source with beneficial effects on DNA damage.
“You get what you need when you need it”: A mixed methods examination of the feasibility and acceptability of a tailored digital tool to promote physical activity among women in midlife
Authors: Arigo Danielle , Lassiter Jonathan Mathias , Baga Kiri , Jackson Daija A , Lobo Andrea F , Guetterman Timothy C
Published: November 2023

During midlife (ages 40–60), women experience myriad changes that elevate their risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including decreased physical activity (PA). Women cite lack of social support for PA and lack of active peers who can serve as role models as key barriers. Digital tools such as web applications can provide exposure to these social inputs; they are also accessible in daily life and require modest time investment. However, as few tools have been designed to meet the unique needs of women in midlife with CVD risk, our research team previously built a web application that is tailored for this population. In the present study, we used a convergent mixed methods design to develop a deep understanding of the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of this web application in a sample of identified end users. Participants ( N = 27, MAge = 53 years, MBMI = 32.6 kg/m2) used the web application at the start of each day for 7 days and completed a 1-hour qualitative interview at the end of this test period. Integration of findings from two-level multilevel models (quantitative) and thematic analysis (qualitative) indicated support for the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the new web application among women in midlife with CVD risk conditions and identified critical opportunities for improving the user experience. Findings also speak to the utility of options for content selection that can meet women's needs in daily life and highlight women's desire for PA resources that prioritize their perspectives.
Understanding gendered transnational education mobility: Interview with Fran Martin
Authors: Martin Fran , Song Lin
Published: November 2023

In this interview, Fran Martin discusses gendered transnational education mobility in relation to research methodology, the contradictions of neoliberal ideology, and the social implications of ethnographic research. Challenging stereotypical and often biased portrayals of Chinese international students in the Anglosphere, Martin argues for the importance of attending to the irreducible details of individual life experiences and explains how to employ affective methods to convey these details to readers. Calling for attention to gender as a key perspective in understanding education mobility, she discusses how the global neoliberal discourse underpinning this form of mobility can be restricting and empowering at the same time. She also reflects on the ways in which researchers could engage with social and policy realities and contribute to improving international students’ well-being.
Reconnoitering the Nexus Between Organizational Culture and Open Innovation Systems
Authors: Parveen Shazia , Abdullah Iqra , Qureshi Muhammad Imran , Farooq Muhammad Umar , Qayuum Shazia
Published: November 2023

Postmodern organizations strive to cultivate open innovation systems to foster product innovation and commercialization. Cultural dynamics can be a massive obstacle in flourishing the inbound and outbound open innovation in many organizations. However, little is known about the effect of different types of culture on the open innovation dimensions. This research aimed to investigate the role of cultural subtleties in nurturing inbound and outbound open innovation in the organizations. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from a random sample of 231 managers from the automotive industry. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses using Smart PLS. The results indicated that hierarchy culture, associated with formal rules and regulations, negatively affects the inbound and outbound open innovation. The Market culture has a positive relationship with inbound and outbound open innovation while adhocracy culture could positively impact the inbound open innovation only. On the other hand, clan culture has a negative effect on the outbound open innovation. We concluded that the organizational culture focused on internal integrations is more suitable for outbound open innovation, and the type of organizational culture focused on external differentiation is more likely to support inbound open innovation.
Media Credibility and Re-use Intention for Information Seeking in Crisis: A Case of Cross-Platform Media Complementary Effect in Covid-19 Pandemic in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Doan Viet Phuong , Phung Thanh-Binh
Published: November 2023

The relationship among different media types is a long and exciting subject for researchers. It can not be denied that the rise of online media has contributed to the decline of traditional media consumption. Despite their conflict, traditional media can take full advantage of social media’s user base for their benefit. At one point in this relationship, the Covid-19 pandemic occurred as a massive event that changed the world beginning in 2020. In the new situation, people’s emotions, information seeking motivation, and intention change, ultimately affecting their choice of mediums to acquire information. The study found differences in people’s emotions, motivation, and medium’s re-use intention during the Covid-19 outbreaks and after they were controlled. Furthermore, the results illustrate that one medium’s re-use intention is affected by its credibility and other medium’s credibility and re-use intention. These impacts could signify the complementary effect in a multiplatform context.
Heterogeneous Blockholders and Enterprise Innovation: Evidence From the Mixed-Ownership Reform in China
Authors: Xia Hui , Ling Shixian , Liu Zhangxin (Frank)
Published: November 2023

The mixed ownership reform of China is a kind of further partial privatization for the listed state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and an opportunity for non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs) to expand their commerce boundaries. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of heterogeneous blockholders on corporate innovation. Spanning the analysis with listed companies in China from 2007 to 2017, we find that heterogeneous blockholders have a significant positive effect on enterprise innovation. Lowering agency costs and improving corporate innovation efficiency are the two plausible mechanisms. From further research, we find that compared with non-SOEs, the positive effect of heterogeneous blockholders on enterprise innovation is more pronounced for SOEs, and the effect is more positive with the improvement of relative power balance between heterogeneous blockholders. The paper sheds light on the innovation effects of mixed-ownership reform in emerging and transitioning countries.

JEL Classification: G32, M13, D23, G34
Decrease Venous Thromboembolism Without Anticoagulation in Plastic Surgery: The Paradigm of Risk Identification, Risk Modification, and Risk Reduction
Authors: Pannucci Christopher J. , Stein Michael J.
Published: November 2023

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an important patient safety issue and potentially a life or limb threatening complication that can occur following plastic surgery. Patients are at different levels of VTE risk, based on patient-centric and procedure-specific risks. The following review discusses the paradigms of risk identification, risk modification and risk reduction for VTE risk in plastic surgery, with an ultimate goal of reducing VTE risk and improving patient safety.
Race, Socioeconomic Status, and Long COVID
Authors: Louie Patricia , Wu Cary
Published: November 2023

This study assessed the relationship between race and long COVID and the role that socioeconomic plays in this relationship. We analyzed data from the Household Pulse Survey (HPS) conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau from September 14 to September 26, 2022. Of the 18,061 individuals in the sample, 4,927 (weighted 28.6 percent) reported long COVID. We used multiple logistic regressions to examine the association between race, socioeconomic status, and long COVID. We found that Black and Hispanic individuals shared similar odds of long COVID with White individuals. Only Asian individuals reported a significantly lower odds of long COVID as compared to White individuals. The relationship between race and long COVID was buffered by socioeconomic status ( p-value <.001), but the effect size was 3 times greater among White individuals than among Black, Hispanic, and Asian individuals. These findings suggest that support for groups with long COVID should especially be concentrated among individuals with low socioeconomic status. It is also important to address the barriers that limit the translation of high socioeconomic status into a protective health resource for racial and ethnic minorities.