bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissimilar FTA Strategies of Japan and the United States: An Analysis of the Product-Specific Rules of Origin
Authors: Ando Mitsuyo , Urata Shujiro , Yamanouchi Kenta
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the trade restrictiveness of product-specific rules of origin (PSRs) in the comprehensive sets of free trade agreements (FTAs) for Japan and the United States, focusing on their similarities and dissimilarities. The most distinctive dissimilarities are the major PSR types and their variation among FTAs. Japan's FTAs use the selective type (“change in tariff classification [CTC] or regional value content [RVC]”) most intensively. In contrast, a few U.S. FTAs use RVC and others use CTC most intensively, and the distribution of simplified PSR types appears to be almost the same among FTAs in each group. The detailed PSR types, however, are likely to be more heterogeneous and complicated in U.S. FTAs than in Japan's FTAs. Such dissimilar features are more salient in machinery sectors with dense global value chains (GVCs)/international production networks (IPNs). The quantitative estimates suggest that the selective types utilized by Japan for most machinery products are much less trade-restrictive, while certain complicated types adopted by the United States for many machinery products are substantially trade-restrictive. Our detailed investigation revealed the two countries’ contrasting strategies, namely, Japan appears to aggressively utilize FTAs with less restrictive PSRs to enhance GVCs/IPNs, while the United States tends to make PSRs more restrictive and complicated in detail as a sort of disguised protection tool.
Predictive Coding as a Neuromorphic Alternative to Backpropagation: A Critical Evaluation
Authors: Zahid Umais , Guo Qinghai , Fountas Zafeirios
Published: October 2023

Backpropagation has rapidly become the workhorse credit assignment algorithm for modern deep learning methods. Recently, modified forms of predictive coding (PC), an algorithm with origins in computational neuroscience, have been shown to result in approximately or exactly equal parameter updates to those under backpropagation. Due to this connection, it has been suggested that PC can act as an alternative to backpropagation with desirable properties that may facilitate implementation in neuromorphic systems. Here, we explore these claims using the different contemporary PC variants proposed in the literature. We obtain time complexity bounds for these PC variants, which we show are lower bounded by backpropagation. We also present key properties of these variants that have implications for neurobiological plausibility and their interpretations, particularly from the perspective of standard PC as a variational Bayes algorithm for latent probabilistic models. Our findings shed new light on the connection between the two learning frameworks and suggest that in its current forms, PC may have more limited potential as a direct replacement of backpropagation than previously envisioned.
The leaf-mining genus Lyonetia Hübner from China, with descriptions of two new species (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutoidea: Lyonetiidae)
Authors: LIU SHIYU , LIU TENGTENG , YU JIAZHI , XU JIASHENG , TENG KAIJIAN
Published: October 2023

So far, only five species of the genus Lyonetia Hübner, 1825 have been recorded in China. In this paper, we describe two new species: L. (Lyonetiola) blasta T. Liu, sp. n., and L. (Lyonetiola) duplistriata T. Liu, sp. n., and report a newly recorded species, L. (Lyonetia) ledi Wocke, 1859 from China. Autumnal forms, manifesting darker forewings, of L. (Lyonetia) clerkella (Linnaeus, 1758) were collected from Xizang at an altitude of 3650 m in summer. The distribution and host plants of L. (Lyonetia) clerkella (Linnaeus, 1758) and L. (Lyonetia) prunifoliella (Hübner, 1796) in China are summarized. Photos of adults, male and female genitalia are provided. Host plants, leaf mines and DNA barcodes are also provided when available.
Tropical Cool-Skin and Warm-Layer Effects and Their Impact on Surface Heat Fluxes
Authors: Yan Yunwei , Song Xiangzhou , Wang Guihua , Li Xiaojing
Published: October 2023

Cool-skin and warm-layer effects are important phenomena in the ocean–atmosphere system. Here, we study tropical cool-skin and warm-layer effects and their impact on surface heat fluxes using the methods proposed by Fairall et al. in 1996, i.e., the F96 cool-skin scheme and the combined warm-layer method. The results reveal strong cool-skin effects (∼−0.3 K) in the Indo-Pacific warm pool, but weak effects in the equatorial Pacific and Atlantic cold tongues. The spatial pattern of the cool-skin effect is determined by the difference in the specific humidity between the sea and air. The warm-layer effect is strong (∼0.25 K) in both the warm pool and cold tongues but weak in the trade wind regions and exhibits a spatial pattern that is inversely related to the surface wind speed. In the tropics, the cool-skin effect causes an average reduction of 11.0 W m−2 in the heat loss from the ocean to the atmosphere, while the warm-layer effect causes an increase of 6.0 W m−2. With respect to the F96 cool-skin scheme, four common wind-speed-dependent empirical models could not fully capture the spatial distribution of the cool-skin effect. A new empirical model that depends on the sea–air humidity difference is proposed to overcome this problem. Compared to the combined warm-layer method, when only the F96 warm-layer scheme is applied, the effect is underestimated at both low and high wind speeds. These new findings improve our understanding of the cool-skin and warm-layer effects and provide insights into their parameterization schemes.

Significance Statement

The aim of this study is to improve our understanding of tropical cool-skin and warm-layer effects and to examine their impact on surface heat fluxes. In addition, we evaluate the parameterization schemes for these effects to provide insights into their improvement in ocean–atmosphere coupled models. Our results indicate that the sea–air humidity difference is likely the most important factor influencing the tropical cool-skin effect. As a result, a new empirical model that depends on the sea–air humidity difference is proposed. Furthermore, we find that existing diagnostic models underestimate the impact of the warm-layer phenomenon on the ocean–atmosphere system. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an improved parameterization scheme, especially as synchronous near-surface temperature measurements become available.
Rigid Plate Fixation for Closure of Emergent Sternotomies for Trauma
Authors: Grant April A. , Moore Cameron , Smith Randi N. , Sciarretta Jason D. , Sola Richard , Udobi Khadi , Williams Keneeshia N. , Busby Stephanie , Butler Caroline , Keeling Brent , Ghodsizad Ali , Nguyen Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Background

No studies to date have evaluated the use of rigid plate fixation for emergent sternotomy in trauma patients. We evaluated our use of rigid plate fixation vs wire cerclage in patients requiring emergent sternotomy. We hypothesized there would be no difference in complications related to sternal closure between the two groups.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study to include all patients who underwent emergent sternotomy from 1/1/2018 to 1/31/2021 and survived to have their sternum closed. Outcomes in patients closed with wire cerclage group (WC) were compared to patients who underwent rigid plate fixation (RPF).

Results

Twenty-two patients underwent emergent sternotomy. There were 11 patients in each group. There was no significant difference in admission demographics, ISS, or admission characteristics between the two groups. Complication rates related to closure (wound infection and hardware removal) were not significantly different (WC 27% vs RPF 9%, P = .58). Neither hospital length of stay (WC: 29 days vs RPF: 13 days, P = .13), ICU length of stay (WC: 6 days vs RPF: 7 days, P = .62), nor the number of ventilator days (WC: 3 days vs RPF: 1 day, P .11) were statistically different. All patients survived to discharge.

Discussion

This is the first study comparing RPF and WC for sternotomy closure in the setting of trauma. We found no difference in the rate of wound related complications. This study demonstrates the feasibility of rigid plate fixation for trauma sternotomy closure and lays the foundation for future prospective studies.
Anaphylactic Shock to Intravenous Indocyanine Green During a Robotic Right Colectomy
Authors: Keller Nicole B. , Stapler Stevie-Jay M. , Shanker Beth-Ann , Cleary Robert K.
Published: October 2023

Intravenous indocyanine green (IV ICG) is regarded as a safe immunofluorescence agent used to assess bowel perfusion prior to creating bowel anastomoses and aids in ureter identification during intra-abdominal surgery. We report the first instance of anaphylactic shock to IV ICG after prior toleration of ICG via an intra-ureteral route. Shortly after administering IV ICG, our patient became hypotensive and hypoxic requiring chest compressions, vasoactive medications, and thoracostomy tubes prior to identifying the symptoms as an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is not a recognized side effect of ICG and was not immediately considered. As ICG becomes increasingly utilized as an immunofluorescence agent among surgical specialties, increased awareness and recognition of anaphylactic shock as a potential side effect of ICG may lead to expedited diagnoses, treatment, and more critical evaluation of indications for future use. Additionally, our patient first tolerated intra-ureteral administration without a systemic reaction, suggesting a possible sensitization mechanism.
Russian Orthodox framing of abortion in online journalism on religion
Authors: HILL Caroline
Published: October 2023

When making public statements about abortion, those serving in the Russian Orthodox Church are beholden to the legacy of the Soviet health care system and the need to connect with audiences whose religious sentiments are largely nominal. This article explores framing of abortion by clerics and others serving in the Church in 150 Russian online newspaper articles. Said framing was analyzed according to typologies from prior research of morality policy and church-state relations in Russia. The frequency with which these frames were employed was measured and cross-referenced with article genres. The results show that rational-instrumental frames rooted in secular reasoning surpassed religious argumentation and appeals for state intervention, and that frames expressing disillusionment with the Russian government outpaced positive assessments of the state.
Role of visually impaired in screening of diseases and the way forward
Authors: Bakshi Ravleen Kaur
Published: October 2023

The role of visually impaired individuals in disease screening can be significant and beneficial. While visually impaired people may have limitations related to their sight, they can still contribute to and participate in various aspects of disease screening owing to their heightened senses, especially touch. It is important to recognize that each visually impaired individual's capabilities and preferences may vary, and their involvement in disease screening should always be voluntary and based on their comfort level. However, by creating an inclusive environment and addressing accessibility barriers, visually impaired individuals may be specially empowered to engage in disease screening, particularly of the breast.
Evaluation of Anatomical Variations of the Maxillary Sinus in Patients With and Without Mucous Retention Cyst
Authors: Aghaee Fateme , Moudi Ehsan , Vahdani Nazmehr , Bijani Ali , Haghanifar Sina
Published: October 2023

Objectives: Mucous retention cyst (MRC) is a benign and self-limited lesion that can be caused by many risk factors, including anatomical variations of the sinonasal region. This study aims to investigate the relationship between anatomical variations and the presence of MRC. Materials and Methods: In total, 2109 sinonasal cone beam computed tomography images were evaluated for the presence of MRC, and the sinonasal anatomical regions such as the osteomeatal complex (OMC), infundibulum length, ostium height, the diameter of the ostium, the presence of accessory ostium, concha bullosa, and mucosal thickening of the maxillary sinuses. Shapiro-Wilk normality test, independent sample t-test, and chi-square test were used for statistical analysis, and P < .05 was considered significant. Results: The prevalence of MRC was 119 (5.6%) cases. The average diameter of the ostium in cases with and without MRC was 0.49 ± 0.41 mm and 0.99 ± 0.76 mm, respectively, which showed a significant inverse relationship( P < .001). A significant relationship was found between the septum deviation, the ostium height, the concha bullosa, and the accessory ostium with the presence of MRC ( P < .001). Conclusions: Sinonasal anatomical variations such as ostium diameter, ostium height, septal deviation, the presence of accessory ostium, and concha bullosa can cause MRC development, and considering that surgery may be necessary in some cases; this could be of great importance to clinicians and surgeons for treatment and prevention of development or recurrence of these pseudocysts in patients.
The Effects of Repeated Reading on Fluency for Students With and at Risk for EBD: An Evidence-Based Review
Authors: Collins Lauren W. , Cook Sara E. C. , Ninci Jennifer , Weingrad Iana
Published: October 2023

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders have historically experienced poor outcomes in the area of reading. One strategy that has been suggested for improving oral reading fluency for students with or at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders is repeated reading. However, there has not been an evidence-based review that examines the use of this intervention for this population. The purpose of this study was to conduct an evidence-based review that examined the use of repeated reading in improving oral reading fluency outcomes for students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders according to the Council for Exceptional Children’s Standards for Evidence-Based Practices in Special Education. To focus on students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders, we only included studies that included or disaggregated results for the target population. Although this narrow scope resulted in only six studies for inclusion, repeated reading was classified as having mixed evidence for improving the oral reading fluency of students with emotional and behavioral disorders and insufficient evidence for students at risk. We discuss the implications for research and practice.
The effectiveness of home modifications on the risk of falling in older adults with dementia: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Dalvand Hamid , Setoudeh Hamed , Namazi Shabestari Alireza , Vahabi Zahra , Almasi-Hashiani Amir
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of modifying the home environment on falls in older adults with dementia.

Methods:

In this single-blind clinical trial study, 44 older adult patients with dementia who met the inclusion criteria, were included in the study and then randomly assigned to intervention ( n = 22) and control ( n = 22) groups using a balanced block randomization method. The intervention group received home modifications, while the control group did not receive any modifications. After intervention, The HOME Fall and Accident Screening Tool was used to assess falls. The ethics committee of Tehran University of Medical Sciences approved the study procedure (IR.TUMS.FNM.REC.1399.163) and this study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials with the code: IRCT20210106049950N1.

Results:

Comparing the mean fall risk scores between the two groups at the beginning of the study showed no significant difference in the risk of falling ( p = 0.6). By contrast, at the end of the study, this difference became significant between groups ( p < 0.001). This comparison in the control group at the beginning and end of the study indicated no significant difference ( p = 0.32). However, it was significant in the intervention group at the beginning of the study and after modifications ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Modifications by applying changes and reforms to the home environment reduced the risk of falling in older adults with dementia.
Critical economic theory and Maria Márkus’s politicisation of needs
Authors: Ebert Norbert
Published: October 2023

Like a message in a bottle, How Is Critical Economic Theory Possible? originally written in the late 1960s in Hungarian, has recently arrived on the shores of critical theory in the form of an English translation. As a critique of Marx’s economic determinism, the authors aim to set Marxist thinking on a more realistic path. This article looks first, at what the authors think are flawed premises in Marx’s work. Second, I sketch the contemporary economic context of a global digital economy to point at issues a critical economic theory inevitably has to contend with today to prove its relevance. Finally, I argue that Maria Márkus’s ideas of a politicisation of needs and civil/decent society make a significant contribution to a potential answer to How Is Critical Economic Theory Possible? and also advance the idea of a mixed economy with the goal to sustain an economic order that allows a maximum of economic and political freedom while simultaneously reducing economic and political inequalities to a minimum.
A working alias: African seafarers and fungible identities across European empires in the early twentieth century
Authors: Nasiali Minayo
Published: October 2023

During the first half of the twentieth century, the labour of sailors from colonial Africa was essential to the European shipping industry. These seafarers laboured mostly as firemen and coal trimmers (in French, they were called chauffeurs and soutiers), shovelling coal and stoking fires in the engine rooms of the steamships that transported the world's people and goods. To secure this work, African sailors sometimes adopted aliases. They commodified their names and identities as part of an alternative, extralegal economy that also benefitted the broader ‘legitimate’ shipping industry. Their identities, however, were deeply suspected by the empires that claimed them – France and Great Britain. Significantly, black sailors adopted aliases to engage with and circumvent the economic and political regimes that employed and policed them.
Care Practices of Mental Health Clinical Pharmacist Practitioners Within an Interdisciplinary Primary Care Model for Patients With Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Percy Annette , Kelley A. Taylor , Valentino Natalie , Butz Amy , Baylis Jacob D. , Suo Ying , Gordon Adam J. , Jones Audrey L.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Clinical pharmacist practitioners (CPPs) play an increasingly important role in interdisciplinary care for patients with substance use disorders (SUDs). However, CPPs’ scope of practice varies substantially across clinics and settings.

Objectives:

We sought to describe CPP practices and activities within an interdisciplinary, team-based primary care clinic dedicated to treat Veterans with histories of substance use disorders, experience of homelessness, high medical complexity, and other vulnerabilities.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of CPP activities using Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data in 2019.

Results:

CPPs provided care for 228 patients, including 766 in-clinic visits, 341 telephone visits, and 626 chart reviews, with an average of 2.5 hours spent per patient per year. Patients seen by CPPs frequently experience mental health conditions and SUDs, including depression (66%), post-traumatic stress disorder (52%), opioid use disorder (OUD) (45%), and alcohol use disorder (44%). CPPs managed buprenorphine medications for OUD or chronic pain in 76 patients (33%). Most CPP interventions (3330 total) were for SUDs (33%), mental health conditions (24%), and pain management (24%), with SUD interventions including medication initiation, dose changes, discontinuations and monitoring. As part of opioid risk mitigation efforts, CPPs queried the state’s prescription drug monitoring program 769 times and ordered 59 naloxone kits and 661 lab panels for empaneled patients.

Conclusion:

CPPs managed a high volume of vulnerable patients and provided complex care within an interdisciplinary primary care team. Similar CPP roles could be implemented in other primary care settings to increase access to SUD treatment.
Hukou Status and Cognitive Function Among Older Chinese Adults: Does Support from Friends Matter?
Authors: Peng Changmin , Burr Jeffrey A. , Wu Bei , Li Mengting
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study examined whether older Chinese adults with different types of hukou status (government household registration system) exhibited different cognitive outcomes and whether receiving support from friends, an under-appreciated resource, helped mitigate the negative impacts of agricultural hukou status on cognitive health disparities.

Methods

Using nationally representative data from the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey, this study tested these relationships with well-validated measures.

Results

Our results showed that older Chinese adults with agricultural hukou were more likely to have worse cognitive function than those with non-agricultural hukou. Further, friend support characteristics moderated the association between hukou status and cognitive function, whereby having better friend support was related to a weaker negative effect of agricultural hukou status on cognitive function.

Discussion

The findings suggested that agricultural hukou status reflects the effects of accumulated disadvantage across the life course with negative consequences for late-life cognition. The cognitive health disparities between agricultural and non-agricultural residents may be reduced in the context of a higher level of friend support, supporting a stress buffering hypothesis.
Giving dialectics a chance?
Authors: Parron Tâmis
Published: October 2023

This article introduces the Cultural Dynamics book forum on Denise Ferreira da Silva's Unpayable Debt. The book examines the epistemological principles of Western thinking that make raciality and its practical implications for the contemporary world possible. Among Ferreira da Silva’s targets is Karl Marx’s theory of value. Commentators respond to the author’s argument, with debates on whether Marx's approach sufficiently addresses the role of race within capitalism. This introduction adds to the debate wondering whether Ferreira da Silva’s framing of Marx’s ideas inadvertently mirrors the post-Enlightenment pillars she criticizes in other philosophers, suggesting a potential misunderstanding of Marx’s dialectics. The article winds up by emphasizing the significance of Marx’s dialectics as a transformative tool to critique the commodity form and its power dynamics in a racialized world economy.
Epoxy resin/cyannate ester copolymer with improved fire safety, mechanical properties and low dielectric loss enabled by 10-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-10-hydrogen-9-oxa-10-phosphazephenanthrene-10-oxide and copper hydroxystannate
Authors: Huang Zhenyu , Wang Zhengzhou
Published: October 2023

Epoxy resin/cyanate ester copolymer (EC) possesses the advantages of low dielectric constant and low dielectric loss, while the easy flammability of EC restricts its applications. The effect of 10-(2,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-10-hydrogen-9-oxa-10-phosphazephenanthrene-10-oxide (DQ) and copper hydroxystannate (CuHS) on the flame retardancy, smoke suppression, mechanical properties and thermal decomposition behavior of EC was studied. The EC composite containing 7 wt% DQ and 3 wt% CuHS (EC/7DQ3CuHS) passed the UL-94 V0 rating with a limiting oxygen index of 32.0% The peak heat release rate and total heat release of EC/7DQ3CuHS fell by 41.9% and 35.0% respectively, compared with those of pure EC. The total smoke release of EC/7DQ3CuHS was reduced by 36.0% in comparison with that of the EC composite containing 10 wt% DQ. The tensile and impact strengths of the EC composite with 9 wt% DQ and 1 wt% CuHS increased by 16.9% and 19.2%, respectively in contrast with pure EC. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the EC composites maintained at relative low values. The as-prepared EC composites have application prospect in electronic packaging industry.
Perceptions of academic librarians regarding their interpersonal competencies: A case of Pakistani universities
Authors: Ali Muhammad Asif , Rafiq Muhammad , Arshad Alia
Published: October 2023

This investigation aimed to assess the perceived level of interpersonal competencies possessed by academic librarians working in public and private sector universities across Pakistan. The study also examined differences in perceived interpersonal competencies of academic librarians based on demographic characteristics. A quantitative survey method was opted to collect data from 276 academic librarians selected through proportionate stratified simple random sampling technique. A total of 257 (92.4%) responses were received back that were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS-23). The findings showed that academic librarians’ perceived collaboration, communication, customer service, ethics & values, leadership, and learning & innovation were at very skilled level. On the basis of age and professional experience, there were no significant differences in respondents’ opinions; however academic librarians from private universities were found to be more skillful about interpersonal competencies than those from public universities. Female respondents thought they were more adept at interpersonal skills than male respondents. Further, the respondents having MS/MPhil degrees were more interpersonal competent than those having BS (Hons.)/MLIS/MA degrees. Strong interpersonal abilities enable university librarians to play a significant role that support social and political well-being of the university. In local scenario, they could organize lectures and training sessions to help other academic librarians develop their skills. They could join statutory groups that develop laws to advance the field of librarianship. Moreover, the present study suggested the development a comprehensive instrument in assessing the interpersonal competencies of academic librarians based on the competency index for the library field prepared by OCLC web junction in 2014.
The prognostic value of neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and serum chemerin to predict maternal-fetal complications in pregnant systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Medina Gabriela , González-Cortés Francisco R , Sánchez-González Antonio , Vázquez-Rodríguez Juan G , Ordoñez-González Irvin , Jiménez-Arellano María P , García-Collinot Grettel , Morales-Montalvo Susana I , Florez-Durante Oscar I , Cruz-Domínguez María P , Colorado-Cruz María F , Zurita-Muñoz Miguel A , Cruz-Arteaga Gilberto , Sánchez-Enriquez Carolina , Jara Luis J , Saavedra Miguel Á
Published: October 2023

Background

Pregnancy in SLE continues to be a challenge. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and chemerin are predictors of preeclampsia in the general population; however, their role as predictors of maternal-fetal complications in pregnant SLE patients has not been analyzed.

Objective

To investigate the prognostic value of NLR and serum chemerin, to predict maternal-fetal complications in pregnant SLE patients, and compare both biomarkers among three study groups.

Methods

Design: Analytical cross-sectional study of cases and controls with the following study groups: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), preeclampsia, and healthy. NLR and chemerin serum were determined between 20 and 25 weeks of gestation. Patients were evaluated every 4–6 weeks until pregnancy resolution. Maternal and fetal outcomes were registered. We employed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves to validate prognostic values.

Results

Seventy pregnant patients were included: 20 with SLE, 20 with preeclampsia, and 30 healthy pregnant women; NLR values were 4 (2.3–5.6) in SLE, 6 (4.6–9.2) in preeclampsia, and 2.8 (2.1–2.9) in the group of healthy women ( p = .0001). Chemerin levels were: 26 (15.3–56.2) in SLE, 96 (37.3–146.2) in preeclampsia, and 24.6 ng/mL (15.3–47.4) in the healthy group ( p = .007) Maternal complications were observed in 11 (55%), 20 (100%), and 8 (26%) per group, respectively. Thrombocytopenia was the most frequent complication in all pregnant women, followed by hypertensive disorders. Fetal complications were registered in 12 (60%), 16 (80%), and 2 (6.7%), respectively. Congenital malformations and prematurity were the most frequent fetal complications. NLR had good diagnostic accuracy in predicting maternal-fetal complications (AUROC 0.715) p = .015, CI 95% 0.56–0.86, cut-off point level: 2.9, sensitivity 61%, specificity 78%, positive predictive value (PPV) 65%, negative predictive value (NPV) 75%. Regarding chemerin, a cut-off point level >43 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 72% AUROC 0.75, p = .001, CI 95% 0.61–0.89, PPV 51.7% NPV 87.8%, meaning that 51.7% of patients with chemerin levels >43 ng/mL have or will have preeclampsia.

Conclusion

The NLR may help predict maternal-fetal complications in SLE pregnancy, constituting a marker of subclinical inflammation. Chemerin levels may be associated with preeclampsia. These biomarkers could improve the care of SLE patients with timely intervention of potential complications during pregnancy.
Enablers and Barriers to Online Education in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sathiyamoorthy Rithu , Ramesh Vani Lakshmi , Chettri Meghna , Ziephru Sedevonuo , Kamath Rajesh
Published: October 2023

Background: COVID-19 has increased the need for online education. Despite this increase in demand, there are various shortcomings like firsthand experience of technology among students and transition in teaching among teachers. Objective: This systematic review aimed to identify and enlist the enablers and barriers to online education at the university level in India. Methodology: An extensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE. Five reviewers independently screened title abstracts and full texts. The review included primary research articles that were published between 1985 and 2023. Gray literature was not included in the study. Data was extracted and summarized in Microsoft Excel. Results: Thirty studies among 164 records discussed the enablers and barriers to online education among Indian university students. Twenty-two studies were quantitative in design. Twenty-six of them included students’ perspectives. Transition from traditional classrooms, internet inaccessibility, unavailability of gadgets, and lack of interaction were a few barriers to online education. Training to faculty and asynchronous teaching were considered as enablers of online education. Discussion: Internet connectivity which had been considered as an enabler before the pandemic has been considered as a barrier post-pandemic. Few perspectives of teachers contradict that of students. In-depth analysis of students and the teachers’ perspectives will help enhance the effectiveness of online education.
Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma with Prominent Micropapillary Pattern: A Case Report of a Previously Undescribed Morphology
Authors: Fahoum Ibrahim , Hershkovitz Dov , Erental Ariel , Argani Pedram
Published: October 2023

The classic morphology of clear cell renal cell carcinoma consists of nests of cells with clear cytoplasm. Nevertheless, other histologic patterns may be seen including cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm, bizarre multinucleated giant tumor cells and pseudopapillary structures. In this article, we present the first case of clear cell renal cell carcinoma with a prominent micropapillary pattern.
Association of torpedo maculopathy and keratoconus in a young patient: A multimodal imaging study
Authors: Cozzupoli Grazia Maria , Fasciani Romina , Fedeli Romolo , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To report and document a case of torpedo maculopathy found in a patient affected by keratoconus. Case report: An healthy 16-year-old male patient, affected by keratoconus in both eyes, was referred to the cornea service of our hospital for a follow-up visit. During the dilated fundus examination of the left eye, an oval, well-demarcated, hypopigmented lesion was observed in the juxtafoveal temporal region, pointing towards the center of the macula. Multimodal imaging of the lesion was performed, and the diagnosis of Torpedo Maculopathy was established based on the clinical picture.

Conclusion

This is the first case of torpedo maculopathy described in a patient affected by keratoconus. This association may be merely fortuitous or the result of developmental abnormalities affecting both corneal and retinal structures.
Acute onset of decreased vision after violently vomiting: A case report
Authors: He Hailong , Wang Ziyi , Zhou Haiying , Jin Zi-Bing
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Reported cases of central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) associated with violent vomiting are scarce all over the world. In this case, we reported a male patient with an acute decreased vision right after violently vomiting.

Methods

A 55-year-old male patient found himself with a sudden, painless decline in visual acuity in his left eye (LE) after violently vomiting due to alcohol consumption for 1 day. His best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/2000 in the LE. He has a history of moderate myopia in both eyes and well-controlled hypertension. After evaluating multimodal images, non-ischemic CRVO retinopathy was diagnosed.

Results

During the follow-up period, the patient's BCVA in the LE improved to 20/40 and the ocular examination data confirmed that the previous abnormal performances were nearly back to normal without any treatment.

Conclusion

Non-ischemic CRVO retinopathy following violent vomiting suggests that vomiting-related mechanisms like Valsalva maneuvers and dehydration may contribute to CRVO through effects on ocular blood flow and thrombosis.
The association between caregiver child relationships and mental health of Ethiopian orphans
Authors: Yimer Beneyam Lake , Tilwani Shouket Ahmad
Published: October 2023

Objective

The relationship between caregivers and children has importance for the development of children’s mental health and wellbeing. This study examines the association between orphaned children’s mental health and their relationship with their current caregivers.

Method

It used a correlational research design, appropriate to answer the research questions. The participants were 172 Ethiopian orphans aged 12–18 years, living in institutional care settings, who were selected by stratified sampling techniques, based on a proportionate number of orphans of both sexes.

Results

The findings of multivariate analysis revealed that the level of trusting relationships between children and caregivers was strongly associated, and significantly contributed to mental health measures, such as depression, social anxiety, and self-esteem.

Conclusions

Trusting relationships with caregivers showed a significant contribution to mental health measures (depression, social anxiety, and self-esteem).
Comparing traditional and task-based approaches to teaching pragmatics: Task design processes and learning outcomes
Authors: Kim YouJin , Kang Sanghee , D’Arienzo Meredith , Taguchi Naoko
Published: October 2023

The goal of the current study is twofold: (1) to demonstrate how to design authentic blog-posting tasks for Korean learners of English as a foreign language (EFL); and (2) to compare traditional (textbook-based) and task-based instruction in Korean high school students’ learning of advice-giving strategies in English. Fifty high school students in Korea were assigned to either a traditional or a task-based instruction condition. The traditional group was taught advice-giving strategies using their required textbook. For the task-based instruction group, advice-giving tasks were designed simulating online Q&A communities. Participants were asked to read other high school students’ blogs about their personal concerns and respond to the concerns by posting their advice in a forum. Both groups completed a background survey, a pretest, instructional treatment (a textbook exercise for the traditional condition and individual advice-giving tasks for the task-based condition), a reflection survey, and immediate and delayed posttests over three months. Both groups’ pretest/posttest responses were analysed in terms of the occurrence of advice-giving strategies (e.g. expressing sympathy) based on existing coding frameworks and what students produced. In addition, linguistic forms in each strategy were coded for syntactic complexity (e.g. bi-clausal or mono-clausal constructions). The frequency of different advice-giving strategies and linguistic forms on posttests was compared between the two groups, and between the pretest and posttests for each group. The results showed that the task-based group outperformed the traditional group on the immediate posttest only. However, both groups demonstrated significant gains in advice-giving knowledge at the immediate posttest, and the learning was sustained for 8 weeks. In terms of learning complex constructions of advice-giving head acts (i.e. bi-clausal constructions), there were immediate learning benefits for the task-based group only.
Breaking the chains of television: Streaming and the ‘Netflix effect’ in Turkey
Authors: Ildır Aslı
Published: October 2023

Scarcity is the defining characteristic of television's history in Turkey due to the late arrival of a multi-channel structure, and the experience of television in Turkey is shaped by the extensive involvement of the government and the high level of social control over broadcasting. The dissatisfaction during the pre-streaming era among the audiences in Turkey started to intensify by early 2010s because of the formulaic and similar stories with no diversity, strict regulation and censorship, and the tediousness of long, slow-paced series and extended ad breaks. The arrival of streaming services in 2016–17 was initially disruptive of the strictly regulated market due to the lack of necessary laws for regulating online streaming. Streaming continues to be a significant alternative for producers/creators and audiences in Turkey, with increased political and cultural diversity in local stories and the emergence of diverse genres and formats with different aesthetic tendencies.
A modern theodicy: John Rawls and The Law of Peoples
Authors: Fletcher Louis
Published: October 2023

John Rawls’ The Law of Peoples has typically been read as an intervention in the field of ‘global justice’. In this paper, I offer a different and widely overlooked interpretation. I argue that The Law of Peoples is a secular theodicy. Rawls wants to show that the 'great evils' of history do not condemn humankind by using a secularised form of moral faith to search for signs that the social world allows for the possibility of perfect justice. There are, I show, striking homologies between this argument and the Christian theodicy that Rawls wrote in 1942, A Brief Inquiry Into the Meaning of Sin and Faith. Perhaps more significantly, I draw out how there is, as Rawls himself appears to acknowledge, an intimate relationship between this redemptive project and Rawls' idealistic and moralistic approach to political philosophy.
The Effects of Targeted Campaign Messages on Candidate Evaluations
Authors: Kang Taewoo
Published: October 2023

Campaigns use different strategies across communication channels. How does this affect voters? What are the consequences of being exposed to targeted campaign messages? How do voters react when they are exposed to campaign messages that are aimed at different voters? Does mistargeting always punish candidates or does it reward them under certain conditions? In a survey experiment relying on a sample of 1137 U.S. adults, participants evaluated a fictional candidate running for the U.S. Senate after being exposed to various sets of campaign messages originally delivered via e-mail and TV. A fictional candidate was used to prevent the effects of prior knowledge while the campaign information given to the participants was based on a real campaign’s e-mails and television ads to achieve a degree of realism. Voters perceive the same candidate differently depending on the messages they receive. Politicians may benefit or suffer from mistargeting.
Development of a Fraction Vocabulary Measure
Authors: Lin Xin , Powell Sarah R.
Published: October 2023

Developing mathematics proficiency requires an understanding of mathematics vocabulary. Although previous research has developed several measures of mathematics vocabulary at different grade levels, no study focused solely on fraction vocabularies. We developed and tested a measure of fraction vocabulary for students in Grade 4 to determine the internal consistency and difficulty level of such a measure. Analysis indicated the measure demonstrated high internal consistency. Students, on average, answered less than one-third of fraction vocabularies correctly. We also detected performance differences between students with and without mathematics difficulty and dual-language learners and their peers.
How does hospitalization affect the frailty status of geriatric patients? Prospective study from internal medicine wards of a university hospital
Authors: Ceylan Serdar , Guner Oytun Merve , Okyar Baş Arzu , Balci Cafer , Halil Meltem Gulhan , Cankurtaran Mustafa , Doğu Burcu Balam
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Frailty is a dynamic process. Frailty in the baseline, discharge, and post-discharge are important in the management of patients. We aimed to see how hospitalization affects frailty and to evaluate its effects on health outcomes.

Methods

It was conducted with patients aged 65 and over who were hospitalized in the internal medicine wards of a university hospital. Frailty was evaluated by Clinical Frailty Scale within the first 24 h of hospitalization, within 24 h before discharge, and at third months after discharge.

Results

Ninety-six (57.8%) of patients at baseline, 79 (50.6%) at discharge, and 68 (47.9%) at 3 months were frail. According to baseline, 12 (7.7%) patients changed from frail to non-frail at discharge, while 4 (2.6%) patients became frail ( p = 0.08). According to the baseline, 18 (12.5%) patients went from frail to non-frail at 3 months, while 7 (4.9%) patients turned frail ( p = 0.04). In regression analysis, living with frailty at discharge and low education level increased re-hospitalization. Five or more are considered living with frailty.

Discussion

Hospitalization may have positive effects on frailty in older adult patients hospitalized in internal medicine wards, the main effect is seen to be more significant in the post-discharge follow-up.
Report of the ISTH registry on pregnancy and COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (COV-PREG-COAG)
Authors: Kazi Sajida , Othman Maha , Khoury Rasha , Bernstein Peter S , Thachil Jecko , Ciantar Etienne , Ferrara Laura , Netto Manju , Abdul-Kadir Rezan , Malinowski A Kinga
Published: October 2023

Background

Concerns about COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (CAC) in pregnant individuals were raised in early pandemic.

Methods

An ISTH-sponsored COVID-19 coagulopathy in pregnancy (COV-PREG-COAG) international registry was developed to describe incidence of coagulopathy, VTE, and anticoagulation in this group.

Results

All pregnant patients with COVID-19 from participating centers were entered, providing 430 pregnancies for the first pandemic wave. Isolated abnormal coagulation parameters were seen in 20%; more often with moderate/severe disease than asymptomatic/mild disease (49% vs 15%; p < 0.0001). No one met the ISTH criteria for disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), though 5/21 (24%) met the pregnancy DIC score. There was no difference in antepartum hemorrhage (APH) with asymptomatic/mild disease versus moderate/severe disease (3.4% vs 7.7%; p = 0.135). More individuals with moderate/severe disease experienced postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) (22.4% vs 9.3%; p = 0.006). There were no arterial thrombotic events. Only one COVID-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) was reported.

Conclusions

Low rates of coagulopathy, bleeding, and thrombosis were observed among pregnant people in the first pandemic wave.
Value-modulated attentional capture in reward and punishment contexts, attentional control, and their relationship with psychopathology
Authors: Freichel René , Mrkonja Lana , de Jong Peter J. , Cousijn Janna , Franken Ingmar , Ruiter Tom A. , Le Pelley Mike , Albertella Lucy , Watson Poppy , Veer Ilya M. , Wiers Reinout W.
Published: October 2023

Attentional bias towards rewards has been extensively studied in both healthy and clinical populations. Several studies have shown an association between reward value-modulated attentional capture (VMAC) and greater substance use. However, less is known about the association between these VMAC effects and internalizing symptoms. Moreover, while VMAC effects have also been found in punishment contexts, the association between punishment VMAC and psychopathology has not been studied so far. In the present two-part preregistered study, we adapted a novel VMAC task to also include a punishment context and examined associations with internalizing symptoms and substance use. Our results showed consistent VMAC effects in reward contexts across two separate studies. Attentional capture was stronger for distractors associated with high rewards than for low rewards. We replicated and extended previous findings by showing such VMAC effects in a substantially shorter task that also included alternating punishment blocks. Contrary to our expectations, we found no VMAC effects in punishment contexts and no direct associations between VMAC and symptom measures. Our results speak to the feasibility of assessing VMAC effects using a scalable and short behavioral online task, but the relationship with the development of internalizing and externalizing psychopathology remains uncertain.
Presentation and treatment of a rare case of metaplastic breast cancer: A case report
Authors: Torabi Hossein , Rodd Marjan , Shirini Kasra
Published: October 2023

Breast carcinosarcoma, also known as metaplastic breast cancer, is one of the rarest types of breast cancer. It is an aggressive and poor prognostic breast cancer compared to triple-negative breast cancer. Due to the lack of specific and prescribed treatment, it could threaten patients’ lives, especially women worldwide. There are various diagnostic methods, such as multiple imaging and pathology methods, to diagnose breast cancers. Still, considering the common appearance characteristic of this type of breast cancer with other types, histopathology is the most definitive way. There is no standard neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy for this rare type of breast cancer. In this article, we reported the case of a 62-year-old female with a final diagnosis of metaplastic breast carcinoma and her surgical and medical treatment method.