bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Queer Experience in Turkey
Authors: Bora Ezgi , Ertuğrul Kürşad
Published: March 2024

This study explores the possibility of critical agency of queer subjects in Turkey in terms of challenging and subverting normative structural constraints. These constraints are attested through expansive use of the concept of habitus including class, gender, family, ethnicity and religion. Our field study in which in-depth interviews have been conducted detected two types of habitus in the life experiences of queer subjects: critical and conservative. While the former enables critical agency, the latter undermines this possibility. On this ground, it is argued that exhibiting critical habitus appears to be the precondition of performing critical agency. We conclude that having multiple minority identities, education, and involvement in organizations develop a critical habitus enhancing critical queer agency.
Preclinical Dementia and Economic Well-Being Trajectories of Racially Diverse Older Adults
Authors: Mudrazija Stipica , Palms Jordan , Lee Ji Hyun , Maher Amanda , Zahodne Laura B. , Chopik William J.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study examined the magnitude, changes, and racial/ethnic disparities in the economic costs of the 16-year preclinical phase of dementia—a period of cognitive decline without significant impact on daily activities. Methods: The study utilized two dementia algorithms to classify individuals with incident dementia in the Health and Retirement Study. These cases were compared to matched controls in terms of poverty status, labor force participation, and unsecured debts. Results: Older adults classified with dementia were more likely to drop out of the labor force and become poor than similar older adults without dementia. Racial/ethnic disparities in poverty persisted during the preclinical period, with non-Hispanic Black older adults more likely to leave the labor force and Hispanic older adults more likely to have unsecured debt. Discussion: Findings highlight the economic costs during prodromal phase of dementia, emphasizing need for early interventions to reduce financial strain across diverse older adults.
Sleep Quality as a Critical Pathway Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Multimorbidity and the Impact of Lifestyle
Authors: Sheffler Julia L. , Meng Zhuo , Sachs-Ericsson Natalie , Caimary Viviana G. , Patel Juhi , Pickett Scott
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This study aims to establish the effects of ACEs on multimorbidity through sleep quality and investigate whether lifestyle factors (e.g., eating habits and exercise) may influence this relationship among middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

Participants were drawn from a cross-sectional sample of community dwelling older adults ( N = 276, 55+) and three waves of data from the Midlife in the United States study (MIDUS, N = 843). We examined the direct and indirect effects of ACEs, sleep quality, and health conditions, as well as the conditional effects of physical activity and eating habits.

Results

Across both samples, sleep quality mediated the relationship between ACEs and chronic health conditions. Moderating effects of unhealthy eating and physical activity differed between samples.

Discussion

Sleep quality is an important pathway connecting ACEs and adult multimorbidity, and health behaviors may provide targets for intervention particularly in older adults.
Can Science Inform Christian Ethical Reflection on Gender Identity?
Authors: Messer Neil
Published: March 2024

This article explores whether and how research into biological influences on gender identity can and should inform Christian ethical reflection on gender diversity and gender nonconformity. First, the current state of genetic and neuroscientific research on gender identity is surveyed. While the scientific findings are as yet preliminary, tentative, and sometimes contradictory, researchers argue that they already give grounds for thinking that many biological factors have some influence on gender identity through complex interactions with many social and environmental factors. Next, the article offers some general remarks about how natural scientific findings should—and should not—inform Christian theological and ethical reflection. Finally, three specific proposals are developed for how scientific research can and should inform Christian ethical reflection on gender identity. The article offers both a contribution to this Christian ethical reflection and a case study of how the natural sciences may be used in Christian ethics.
Multivariate Assessment of Inhibitory Control in Youth: Links With Psychopathology and Brain Function
Authors: Cardinale Elise M. , Bezek Jessica , Siegal Olivia , Freitag Gabrielle F. , Subar Anni , Khosravi Parmis , Mallidi Ajitha , Peterson Olivia , Morales Isaac , Haller Simone P. , Filippi Courtney , Lee Kyunghun , Brotman Melissa A. , Leibenluft Ellen , Pine Daniel S. , Linke Julia O. , Kircanski Katharina
Published: March 2024

Inhibitory control is central to many theories of cognitive and brain development, and impairments in inhibitory control are posited to underlie developmental psychopathology. In this study, we tested the possibility of shared versus unique associations between inhibitory control and three common symptom dimensions in youth psychopathology: attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, and irritability. We quantified inhibitory control using four different experimental tasks to estimate a latent variable in 246 youth (8–18 years old) with varying symptom types and levels. Participants were recruited from the Washington, D.C., metro region. Results of structural equation modeling integrating a bifactor model of psychopathology revealed that inhibitory control predicted a shared or general psychopathology dimension, but not ADHD-specific, anxiety-specific, or irritability-specific dimensions. Inhibitory control also showed a significant, selective association with global efficiency in a frontoparietal control network delineated during resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging. These results support performance-based inhibitory control linked to resting-state brain function as an important predictor of comorbidity in youth psychopathology.
Skin erythematous migrant lesions consistent with histologically confirmed dermal arteriolar thrombosis connected to APS
Authors: Suardi Silvia , Croce Jacopo , Colato Chiara , Rizzo Paola Chiara , Friso Simonetta , Pizzolo Francesca
Published: March 2024

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an acquired thrombophilic disorder related to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (LAC, anticardiolipin, anti Beta2-glycoprotein) known to cause venous and arterial thrombosis and recurrent pregnancy loss. Skin disorder is a frequent finding usually due to vascular thrombosis involving the dermal layer and can be either localized or widespread causing necrosis and ulceration of the skin, without histological evidence of vasculitis. We present a case of a woman with APS with both arterial and venous thrombotic involvement associated with an atypical dermatological manifestation histologically consistent with a pauci-inflammatory intermediate-deep dermal arteriolar platelet–mediated thrombosis that appeared despite anticoagulation with warfarin and responding to the addition of antiplatelet therapy.
‘View from the window’: On time, politics and domestics during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic
Authors: Genova Neda
Published: March 2024

The present article aims to contribute to theorisations of the politics of time through a detailed engagement with techno-aesthetic strategies of temporal synchronisation and heterogeneisation of everyday rhythms during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The exploration focuses on practices of mediatisation of domestic spaces, in particular by examining photographs posted on the Bulgarian-language ‘View from the Window’ Facebook group. The group was founded during the first coronavirus lockdown in April 2020 and its members used it to share images taken from their private homes onto exterior spaces. Theoretically, I build on Henri Lefebvre’s rhythmanalytical project, from which I derive an understanding of the polyrhythmic and multi-scalar character of the everyday, while engaging writings from visual cultures, performance studies, architecture and media theory. The article looks closely at two formal aesthetic strategies that established themselves for posting on the group: The visual strategy of framing and the use of time stamps in image captions. On the one hand, I show how these media practices are engaged in synchronising views with each other; I argue that they contribute to the creation of an equivalence between views while obfuscating their underlying socio-material conditions, which tend to remain outside of the photographic frame. On the other hand, I also demonstrate that these practices can be equally generative of asynchronicity and dissonance between views, bringing to the fore a spatio-temporal heterogeneity and the articulation of stark socio-political differences. The article thus contributes an analysis of the interplay between time, politics and domestics through the conceptual prism of an engagement with aesthetic practices of mediation.
Bayesian framework for multi-source data integration-Application to human extrapolation from preclinical studies
Authors: Boulet Sandrine , Ursino Moreno , Michelet Robin , Aulin Linda BS , Kloft Charlotte , Comets Emmanuelle , Zohar Sarah
Published: March 2024

In preclinical investigations, for example, in in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies, the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and toxicological characteristics of a drug are evaluated before advancing to first-in-man trial. Usually, each study is analyzed independently and the human dose range does not leverage the knowledge gained from all studies. Taking into account all preclinical data through inferential procedures can be particularly interesting in obtaining a more precise and reliable starting dose and dose range. Our objective is to propose a Bayesian framework for multi-source data integration, customizable, and tailored to the specific research question. We focused on preclinical results extrapolated to humans, which allowed us to predict the quantities of interest (e.g. maximum tolerated dose, etc.) in humans. We build an approach, divided into four steps, based on a sequential parameter estimation for each study, extrapolation to human, commensurability checking between posterior distributions and final information merging to increase the precision of estimation. The new framework is evaluated via an extensive simulation study, based on a real-life example in oncology. Our approach allows us to better use all the information compared to a standard framework, reducing uncertainty in the predictions and potentially leading to a more efficient dose selection.
Silent reflections remain unheard
Authors: Higgins Matthew , Palepu Radhika , Little John
Published: March 2024

Objective

To consider the contribution of non-clinical factors in the rising rate of mental health presentations and explore the associated silence within the psychiatric profession.

Conclusion

Medicalisation, concept creep and group think, alongside societal demand and expectations, have collectively contributed toward a distorted view of mental health and illness. Equitable service provision has been hindered by the silence of important perspectives.
Enhancing Teachers’ Capacity to Manage Classroom Behavior as a Means to Reduce Burnout: Directed Consultation, Supported Professionalism, and the BASE Model
Authors: Dawes Molly , Sterrett Brittany I. , Brooks Debbie S. , Lee David L. , Hamm Jill V. , Farmer Thomas W.
Published: March 2024

More than a buzzword, teacher burnout captures the zeitgeist of the last few years as schools grapple with the challenges of education in a post-COVID-19 pandemic world. Garwood sounds an alarm and issues a call to action to address teacher burnout given its implications on students in general and, more specifically, on its implications for the fidelity of service delivery interventions for those students most in need. Of the malleable factors related to burnout, this article focused on teachers’ capacity to manage classroom behavior and discusses the potential of the Behavioral, Academic, and Social Engagement (BASE) Model to disrupt processes that can lead to teacher burnout. To illustrate the model’s potential, we present perspectives from middle school teachers shared in focus groups about challenging classroom behaviors and their professional development needs, and we discuss how the BASE Model can help address teachers’ capacity for managing their classroom context. Implications for teacher training and supported professionalism to reduce burnout are discussed.
Comparison of Arthroscopic Microfracture for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus With and Without Small and Shallow Subchondral Cysts
Authors: Guo Hao , Yan Haohan , Yan Han , Liu Yijun , Zeng Canjun
Published: March 2024

Background:

Whether arthroscopic microfracture is effective in treating cystic osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) remains controversial. In this study, outcome parameters in patients with small and shallow subchondral cysts are compared to patients without cysts with the hypothesis that equivalent outcomes may be found after primary microfracture treatment.

Methods:

From 2018 to 2021, all 50 OLTs treated with arthroscopic microfracture in the authors’ hospital were retrospectively reviewed for eligibility. Single unilateral symptomatic lesions were included and divided into the cyst and noncyst groups, whereas kissing lesions and arthritic lesions were excluded. Numeric rating scale (NRS) scores, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, Tegner activity level scores, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores, and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging results were used to describe outcomes.

Results:

A total of 35 patients were included, 16 in the cyst group and 19 in the noncyst group. The patient characteristics were similar between the 2 groups ( P > .05). In the cyst group the average cysts depth was 5.0 ± 1.3 mm. After a mean follow-up duration of 36.2 ± 10.2 months, no significant differences were found between the 2 groups in NRS, AOFAS, FAAM, or Tegner score improvement ( P > .05). Three patients (19%) in the cyst group had no NRS score improvement.

Conclusion:

OLTs with small and shallow subchondral cysts can be treated with arthroscopic microfracture and achieve similar outcomes as noncystic lesions. A few cystic lesions may not respond to microfracture treatment.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Revision Total Ankle Arthroplasty Using the INBONE II System
Authors: Wu Kevin A. , Anastasio Albert T. , Lee Dongoh , Kim Billy I. , Valan Bruno , Krez Alexandra N. , Adams Samuel B. , Nunley James A. , Easley Mark E. , DeOrio James K.
Published: March 2024

Background:

The utilization of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) for managing severe ankle osteoarthritis has become increasingly common, leading to a higher occurrence of revision TAA procedures because of failure of primary TAA. This study aims to examine the clinical results associated with revision TAA using the INBONE II system. Given the growing number of TAA revision procedures and a focus on motion-preserving salvage options, we evaluated our early experience with revision TAA.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a group of 60 presumed noninfected patients who underwent revision TAA with the INBONE II system. Detailed information was collected on patient demographics, implant characteristics, concurrent procedures, and complications. The implant survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis.

Results:

The study revealed high complication rates but generally fair clinical outcomes for revision TAA using the INBONE II system. Complications were observed in 22 patients (36.7%), including persistent pain (n = 6), nerve injury/impingement (n = 5), infection (n = 3), fracture (n = 3), implant failure (n = 3), impaired wound healing (n = 2), and osteolysis (n = 3). The 3-year survivorship rate from reoperation was 92.0% (82.7%-100.0%) whereas the 3-year survivorship rate from major complications was 90.4% (80.8%-100.0%).

Conclusion:

We report high complication rates but generally fair clinical results for revision TAA utilizing the INBONE II system.
Bilateral helicoid peri-papillary sub-retinal fibrosis due to a biallelic NR2E3 mutation: Describing variable expressivity of a mutation
Authors: Hassanpoor Narges , Ebrahimiadib Nazanin , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Moghaddasi Afrooz , Suri Fatemeh
Published: March 2024

Background

To describe different clinical presentations of a same NR2E3 recessive mutation in two families and within one family.

Design

Interventional family study.

Results

Our first case was a one-year-old male child with high hyperopia and refractive accommodative esotropia. In retinal examination, peri-papillary sub-retinal fibrosis with a helicoid configuration was observed in both eyes. The parents and the only sibling had no pathologic findings in the eyes. The child showed to have severely reduced responses in both photopic and scotopic electroretinogram components. In the genetic investigation, a homozygous autosomal recessive mutation in the NR2E3 gene (IVS1-2A > C) was discovered in the affected child, while the other family members were heterozygous for this mutation. We followed up with the patient for 3 years and no new lesion developed during this period. The second case was a 13-year-old male child referred to the retina clinic for decreased vision in the right eye. In retina examination, there were nummular pigmentary changes at the level of retinal pigment epithelium and along the vascular arcades with foveo-schitic changes in both eyes. A choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was noticed in the macula of his right eye. The genetic evaluation proved the same mutation in the NR2E3 gene as in the first case. Family history was remarkable for an uncle, an aunt, and two cousins with night blindness.

Conclusion

Same NR2E3 gene mutation can cause heterogeneous clinical manifestations such as slight retinal changes in the absence of any visual symptoms to high hyperopia associated with helicoid peri-papillary sub-retinal fibrosis.
Mydriasis for retinopathy of prematurity screening in Europe: A cross-sectional online survey
Authors: Seliniotaki Aikaterini K. , Bougioukas Konstantinos I. , Lithoxopoulou Maria , Moutzouri Stella , Diamanti Elisavet , Ziakas Nikolaos , Mataftsi Asimina
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To compile real-time data on the preferred mydriasis practice patterns for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening in Europe.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from December 2022 to January 2023, using a self-report online questionnaire which was distributed via email to the members of the European Pediatric Ophthalmological Society and the Greek National ROP Task Force. A six-week period of recruitment was determined, and a reminder email was sent after two weeks. Descriptive statistics were used to explore the data, which was summarized with frequencies and percentages.

Results

Sixty-six responses were recorded (response rate: 29.5%), representing practices in 55 Neonatal Intensive Care Units from 21 European countries. In 94.5%, the applied mydriatic regimen consists of phenylephrine with at least one muscarinic antagonist, either tropicamide or cyclopentolate. The concentration of phenylephrine ranges from 0.5% to 5%, of tropicamide from 0.25% to 1%, and of cyclopentolate from 0.2% to 1%. The most commonly used regimen (43.6%) contains phenylephrine 2.5% and tropicamide 0.5%, administered either combined or separately. About 54.5% of the reported mydriatic solutions are non-commercial, in-house preparations. Systemic adverse events, including oxygen desaturation, bradycardia and cardiopulmonary arrest were reported in 14.5%.

Conclusion

There is considerable heterogeneity in the applied mydriatic regimens for ROP screening in Europe, reflecting the absence of universal guidelines. The wide use of in-house preparations underlines the gap in the pharmaceutical industry. Concern should be raised against the wide use of undiluted commercial drugs, that reach adult dose, in the fragile population of preterm infants.
Short term effects of extremely low irradiance photobiomodulation on retinal function, in age related macular degeneration
Authors: Franceschelli Sara , D’Andrea Pierdomenico , Farina Marco , Gallenga Carla Enrica , Grilli Alfredo , Pesce Mirko , Di Donato Andrea , Lucchetta Daniele , Ambrosini Giovanna , Benedetti Stefano , Benedetti Margherita , Lobefalo Lucio
Published: March 2024

Background

recently much studies evidenced the potential role of photo-biomodulation (PBM) in patients affected by Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). We designed a new wearable device for self-medication that employs the same broadband red light described in literature, but with extremely low irradiance.

Aim

to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of low-fluence light stimulations emitted by a LED source with appropriate wavelengths through our new device in improving short-term visual function in patients affected by severe non neovascular AMD.

Materials and methods

we prospectively enrolled patients affected by severe non-neovascular AMD with a relative sparing of the foveal region. All the patients were randomly assigned in placebo or in treatment group. The treatment consisted of 10 sessions of 10-min each, using the new device comprised of micro-LEDs that emitted light onto an amorphous support assembled within Metallic eyeglasses. The placebo group blindly underwent the same number of PBM sessions with the micro-LED turned off. Before and after each placebo/treatment sessions all the patients received: optical coherence tomography (OCT), Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) and Microperimetry (MP).

Results

no significant differences in the anatomical parameters were observed in the two groups. The MP mean sensitivity and the central visual function both far and near significantly improved in the treated group (respectively p < 0.001, p < 0.001)

Conclusions

our pivotal demonstrated that the LED PBM delivered through our new device is a safe and effective tool for improving short-term visual function in patients affected by severe non-neovascular AMD.
Indigenous Australians’ experiences during COVID-19 pandemic in the Greater Darwin Region
Authors: Ford Linda , Ticoalu Adriana , Karácsonyi Dávid , Woodroffe Tracy , Yuhun Pawinee , Ford Emily , Guthadjaka Kathy , Baker Colin
Published: March 2024

This article presents a study on the experiences of Indigenous Australians living in the Greater Darwin Region in the Northern Territory during the COVID-19 pandemic. The main aim is to understand the impacts of the pandemic on various aspects of the lives of Indigenous Australians. A survey with open-ended questions was distributed during the period of May to December 2021 to potential participants and responses were collected either face-to-face or online. The responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and inductive thematic analysis. Results of the analysis showed that the pandemic experiences can be grouped in to five key themes: restricted travel, mental health issues, vaccination contention, work and employment changes and fifthly, for some participants, the pandemic caused only minimal impact which can be interpreted as the positive impact of the border closure policy measures.
Clinical Spectrum of Hereditary Tyrosinemia Type 1 in a Cohort of Pakistani Children
Authors: Khan Sabeen Abid , Fakih Misbah , Taufiq Nida , Ahmerin Afaaf , Bangash Asfand , Iqbal Malik Munir
Published: March 2024

Background:

Hereditary Tyrosinemia Type 1 (HT1), a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder, arises from fumarylacetoacetate (FAH) enzyme deficiency, resulting in toxic metabolite buildup. It manifests in acute, subacute, and chronic forms, with early diagnosis and Nitisinone treatment being vital.

Objectives:

The study aims to highlight the different clinical presentations of Hereditary Tyrosinemia type 1 in a cohort of Pakistani children.

Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Methodology:

All patients diagnosed with HT1 at Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad and Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi between 2010 and 2023 were included. Information was collected regarding age, gender, symptoms, physical signs, and laboratory results.

Results:

The study identified 6 cases of HT1. The average age at presentation was 8 months, with a mean delay in diagnosis of 26.8 months. Males were 4 (66.7%) and 2 (33.3%) were females. All patients had underlying liver disease presenting as abdominal distension with hepatosplenomegaly and accompanying growth failure. Four cases presented with rickets, 2 of which had hypophosphatemic rickets. Urine for succinylacetone was raised in all patients. Alpha fetoprotein was raised but hepatocellular carcinoma was diagnosed in 1 patient only. Low protein diet, and vitamin supplements were used for management. Five of the 6 patients died within 2 years of diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Delayed referrals and unavailability of Nitisinone are the major challenges in diagnosing and treating HT1 in Pakistan.
Comparison of mechanical friction evaluations from occupational footwear certified as slip resistant
Authors: Jakobsen Lasse , Bagehorn Timo , Sivebaek Ion Marius , Lysdal Filip Gertz
Published: March 2024

Slipping is a major cause of occupational accidents and numerous footwear factors and features, as well as the testing conditions, affects a shoe's ability to resist slipping. The aim of this study was to compare slip resistance certification data from five certified shoes with measurements performed on a mechanical test setup in accordance with the ISO 20347:2012 standard, as well as determining their performance in a biofidelic setup that resembles the biomechanics of slipping. Certification data attributed Shoe #3 with the highest slip resistance, and our mechanical assessment of the same footwear models showed that Shoe #2 had the higher slip resistance and was superior under more biofidelic testing parameters. Based on our mechanical evaluations, specific engineering considerations such as an increase in both the heel beveling and the midsole thickness can advantageously enhance slip resistance. Further investigation in a clinical setting will provide insights on how these engineered footwear adjustments could enhance friction and ultimately enhance occupational safety.
Double Hopf bifurcation analysis of time delay coupled active control system
Authors: Qian Youhua , Zhou Hui
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the stability analysis of double Hopf bifurcation is carried out based on the time delay coupled active control system by using the related theory of bifurcation analysis. We got the stability switching region of the system with respect to time delay. The time delay and coupling strength are selected as the bifurcation parameters, then the normal form of the coupled time delay active control system is obtained by using the multi-scale method, and the dynamic behavior near the bifurcation point is obtained. So the parameter region of the stable periodic solution and the stable quasi-periodic solution are obtained. The analytical solution of the system is then solved by using the multi-frequency homotopy analysis method (MFHAM) to verify the existence of the unstable periodic solution. Finally, numerical simulation is executed to verify the theoretical results.
Social media and the mediation of everyday violence: A study of Colombian young adults’ experiences
Authors: Morales Esteban
Published: March 2024

Social media is a critical element of contemporary ecologies of violence, especially in countries with a long-standing history of armed conflicts – such as Colombia, the setting of this study. In this context, this article explores how violence is mediated through and within social media platforms among Colombian young adults. More specifically, by drawing on Jesús Martín-Barbero, this study explores how violence is mediated on digital platforms across time (temporalities), space (spatialities), technologies and techniques (technicities) and our senses (sensorialities). Methodologically, this case study draws from the experiences of young adults from Colombia who were invited to collaboratively discuss the violence they engage with in their everyday uses of social media platforms. The results show evidence of destabilization of meaning-making practices in the territories of violence that young adults inhabit on digital platforms, as well as processes of normalization of harm.
Teaching mass spectrometry: A compilation of approaches to teaching theory and practice of mass spectrometry
Authors: Frański Rafał
Published: March 2024

The areas of mass spectrometry applications seem to be much larger than those of any other analytical techniques. They extend from the determination of molecular mass in organic chemistry, through the analytical applications in forensic, environmental and omics sciences, the application in extra-terrestrial exploration and many others. Mass spectrometry, usually coupled with chromatographic techniques, has also found wide application in the pharmaceutical industry, forensic laboratories, laboratories of sanitary inspection or environmental inspection, etc. The growing areas of applications give rise to the demand for the comprehensive mass spectrometry education of undergraduates. This overview covers the body of literature describing various interesting ideas that can be successfully used for teaching mass spectrometry. Since mass spectrometry is a multidisciplinary field, old but dynamically developing, teaching mass spectrometry may be more problematic in comparison to teaching other analytical techniques, for example, there is the problem of position of mass spectrometry in the chemistry curriculum. On the other hand, it is obvious that the mass spectrometry community, besides difficult scientific work, does great and admirable teaching work, in order to perfectly educate undergraduates in the field of mass spectrometry and to make learning mass spectrometry as attractive as possible.
Revisiting the Recommended Duration of Interviews Conducted by Mobile Phone in Low- and Middle-income Countries: A Randomized Trial in Malawi
Authors: Torrisi Orsola , Banda Jethro , Reniers Georges , Helleringer Stéphane
Published: March 2024

Guidelines for conducting surveys by mobile phone calls in low- and middle-income countries suggest keeping interviews short (<20 minutes). The evidence supporting this recommendation is scant, even though limiting interview duration might reduce the amount of data generated by such surveys. We recruited nearly 2,500 mobile phone users in Malawi and randomly allocated them to 10-, 20-, or 30-minute phone interviews, all ending with questions on parental survival. Cooperation was high in all groups, and differences in completion rates were minimal. The extent of item nonresponse, age heaping, and temporal displacement of deaths in data on parental survival generally did not vary between study groups, but reports of maternal age at death were more reliable in longer interviews. Recommendations about the duration of mobile phone interviews might be too restrictive. They should not preclude additional modules, including ones on mortality, in mobile phone surveys conducted in LMICs.
Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Using a Set of Novel Needle Instruments
Authors: Cui Zhengmin , Zhang Duoqiang , Tian Mingguo , Wang Yafei , Yang Xiuping
Published: March 2024

Background

Although the technique of single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) has improved remarkably, problems such as limited exposure and instrument collision persist. We describe a new SILC technique that uses a set of specially-designed needle instruments.

Methods

Fifty-six patients with benign gallbladder disease underwent SILC using the newly-designed needle assembly instruments (NAIs). The NAIs comprise an needle assembly exposing hook for operative field exposure and an needle assembly electrocoagulation hook for dissection. During the operation, the NAIs were assembled and disassembled before and after gallbladder removal within the abdominal cavity. The operative efficacy and postoperative complications of this procedure were evaluated.

Results

SILC was completed successfully in 52 cases, and four cases (7.14%) required an additional trocar. There were no conversions to open surgery. The mean operative time was 48.2 ± 21.8 min, and the mean operative bleeding volume was 10.5 ± 12.5 mL. Minor postoperative complications occurred in 3 cases, including 2 cases of localized fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and 1 case of pulmonary infection, and all of them recovered after conservative treatment. There was no occurrence of bile leak, abdominal bleeding, bile duct injury and incisional hernia. The medical cost of each case was saved by approximately $200. The abdominal scars produced by the needle instruments were negligible.

Conclusion

NAIs can make SILC safer, more convenient, and less expensive.
Experimental investigation of the ease allowance of clothing and thermal-moisture comfort in exercise based on fuzzy comprehensive evaluation
Authors: Zhang Jun , Tong Mengxia , Zhang Mengyun , Zhang Yating , Jiang Xuewei , Zhu Xiaoxiao , Guo Mengna
Published: March 2024

The level of thermal-moisture comfort experienced by an individual is strongly influenced by the clothing they wear and also influenced by the ease allowance of that clothing. This study aimed to investigate the impact of ease allowances of clothing on thermal-moisture comfort during exercise or movement. Seventeen female subjects were asked to wear sample clothing with different sizes during a designated 5-phase exercise in a climate chamber. Throughout the exercise phases, the temperature and humidity of the microclimate under the clothing were monitored while the subjects provided subjective evaluations of their comfort levels. To account for variation in ease allowances, the 32 experimental repetitions were grouped based on the ease allowance of the clothing worn. The FCE-CRITIC method was then used to determine the variable weights of factors and to compare the thermal-moisture status to the subjective evaluation. Results revealed that humidity was more strongly weighted during RS and RC (i.e., running and recovery phase after exercise) compared to other phases, means that moisture comfort was the main factor driving the clothing comfort sensation within the two phases. The ease allowance of clothing was found to have an impact on the sensations of thermal and moisture comfort during exercise, although this effect was not significant. Furthermore, the study identified the optimum range of ease allowance for thermal-moisture comfort during exercise to be between 6 and 10 cm.
A systematic review of GLP-1 on anthropometrics, metabolic and endocrine parameters in patients with PCOS
Authors: Bader Salwa , Bhatti Rahila , Mussa Bashair , Abusanana Salah
Published: March 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common reproductive endocrine condition that affects women of fertile age and is characterized by three main features, including hyperandrogenism, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovaries. In addition, half of women with polycystic ovary syndrome have insulin resistance, and obesity or overweight, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are the most common metabolic abnormalities affecting (30%) women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Weight loss is regarded as the first-line treatment as it can potentially improve polycystic ovary syndrome parameters (androgen levels, menstrual cyclicity, lipid and glucose metabolism). However, achieving and maintaining weight loss can be challenging, and pharmacological agents could be essential to achieve optimal glycemic control and improve the endocrine disturbance associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist has been demonstrated as monotherapy or in combination with metformin for managing obesity and insulin resistance associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. Yet, its effect on endocrine and metabolic parameters remains elusive, and further research is needed to close the gap. The aim is to evaluate the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist monotherapy and/or a combined treatment between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist and metformin for improving anthropometric measurements, endocrine and metabolic parameters in lean and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome. A systematic review of longitudinal cohort studies was conducted across databases including Ovid Medline, PubMed Central, and Cochrane Library between 2015 and 2022. Eligible studies included participants with polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed according to the 2003 Rotterdam or the 1990 National Institutes of Health criteria. A total of eight studies including 486 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome were analyzed. The mean age was between 18 and 45 years with mean follow-up period between 12 and 32 weeks. In all these studies, results were comparable for the reduction in body mass index, waist circumference, fat mass, and visceral fat mass; however, it was more in combination therapy versus comparator. In conclusion, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists effectively reduce body weight and improve some of the endocrine and metabolic parameters of polycystic ovary syndrome. A combined treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist and metformin had significant effects on weight loss and favorable results on endocrine and metabolic parameters, yet further research is needed to discover the long-term safety of combined therapy in women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome and obesity or overweight.
Maintaining whiteness in archaeology: Hegemonic reproduction in academic versus state archaeological institutions in 21st century Israel
Authors: Greenberg Raphael , Sulimani Gideon
Published: March 2024

Archaeology has long been recognized for its 19th century origins in, and 20th century contributions to, imperial and settler colonialisms, as well as its complicity in modern nationalism. By implication, therefore, archaeology has been adopted as a vehicle of modernity and western supremacy and the archaeological gaze has typically been a White one. In pre-state Palestine and in 20th-century Israel, management and academic echelons in archaeology were staffed by European-trained professionals, most of them Jewish Ashkenazi men. While in academia this hegemony has successfully reproduced itself through socialization and by means of a rigid curriculum, ensuring that senior positions at all research universities in Israel are still largely held by members of the founding group, state institutions have become more diverse, especially in the lower echelons of service. We argue that continued dependence on the Anglo-European definitions of science and archaeological value, along with the neoliberal turn in universities, determine academic curricula and career paths. These cement the dominance of Ashkenazim in Israeli academia and track non-Ashkenazim to non-academic positions as excavators and regulators, where mobility can be achieved through loyalty to the state apparatus and to the economic logic of ‘development’. This mobility, however, has had little effect on the racialized and gendered distribution of cultural capital in the archaeological community.
Credibility in corporate testimonial videos: Addressed from a combined interactional and multimodal semiotic perspective
Authors: Dalby Kristiansen Elisabeth , Nørgaard Nina
Published: March 2024

The article reports a study of corporate testimonial videos from a Danish tech SME. The aim of the study is to show how combining Ethnomethodological Conversation Analysis (EMCA) and Multimodal Critical Discourse Analysis (MCDA) may provide new insight into the persuasive appeal of corporate testimonial videos. The study uses EMCA to demonstrate how participants interactionally construct a position of credibility and authenticity from which to deliver the recommendation. It uses MCDA to show how the interaction is integrated into a larger set of multimodally constructed meanings with a specific strategic communicative purpose, specifically how visual and editorial choices contribute to the credibility of the videos by creating a sense that viewers are watching a spontaneous (online) conversation rather than a staged corporate video. The article concludes that the videos construct credibility by providing access to a curated backstage region which viewers are invited to understand as ‘authentic’ and ‘unedited’.
Know DBS: patient perceptions and knowledge of deep brain stimulation in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Salinas Meagen , Yazdani Umar , Oblack Austin , McDaniels Bradley , Ahmed Nida , Haque Bilal , Pouratian Nader , Chitnis Shilpa
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established therapy for Parkinson’s disease (PD) that can significantly improve motor symptoms and quality of life. Despite its effectiveness, little is known about patient perceptions of DBS.

Objectives:

To evaluate patient perceptions of DBS for PD, focusing on understanding, satisfaction, and factors influencing their outlook. This study aims to enhance patient education and counseling by identifying key determinants of patient perceptions.

Design:

A patient survey.

Methods:

We surveyed 77 PD patients who had undergone DBS at multiple centers using a comprehensive questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions on demographic information, disease history, and detailed understanding about the indications for DBS, side effects, outlook, and other common misconceptions. We summarize data using measures of central tendency and dispersion appropriate to the data type (categorical, continuous, proportional) and model relationships among variables using fractional and linear regression methods.

Results:

Participants had a median age of 66 years, were predominantly male (66%), Caucasian (90%), well-educated (79% with at least college degrees), and had a disease duration of greater than 5 years (97%). They conveyed good understanding of the signs and symptoms addressed by DBS across the motor and non-motor domains and associated side effects. Regression analysis identified age, disease duration, and education level as key determinants of patient understanding and outlook of DBS.

Conclusion:

Our study provides a detailed understanding of patient perceptions of DBS for PD, including the benefits, challenges, and misconceptions. Our findings underscore the importance of identifying the causes of disparities in patient knowledge and perceptions regarding DBS to tailor patient counseling and ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Data Submission: HOW the Power of One Creates the Power of Many
Authors: Stanislo Kimberly J.
Published: March 2024

This article is the third and final article in a series exploring the WHAT, WHY, and HOW of data collection and data utilization. The final step, the HOW of data submission, provides discussion and guidance in contributing your data to the collective voice, including submitting data from the school, district, state, and national levels. Submitting individual school nursing data enriches the bigger story and increases the awareness and meaningfulness of school health data, the role of the school nurse as an integral member of the school community, and the connections of student health and academic outcomes. This article will also explore how to submit your school health data and the opportunities to submit it to district, state, or national levels, including to the National School Health Data Set: Every Student Counts! (ESC!).
Exploring the Meanings of Collaborative Healthcare Portrayed in Social Media
Authors: Maghsoudi Tahereh , Hernández Lara Ana Beatriz , Cascón-Pereira Rosalía
Published: March 2024

This article aims to provide knowledge on how collaborative healthcare meanings are being portrayed in social media. Through a qualitative approach of visual and textual analysis, 750 posts were extracted from Instagram to examine the meanings of collaborative healthcare as perceived by healthcare providers and laypeople. Wellness centers and health-related professionals were the main Instagram users who contributed to constructing the meaning of collaborative healthcare (38% and 36%, respectively). The study reveals four main categories within the concept of collaborative healthcare, namely knowledge sharing, events, self-care, and advertising. Interestingly, we found that advertising has the highest frequency (314 posts) and that the term “collaborative” is used by wellness centers as a hallmark for advertising their services. Conclusion and Implications: This study has contributed to unveiling the multiple meanings of collaborative healthcare shared by social media users and to developing some theoretical reflections and practical implications to improve public health.
Rural Women’s Bargaining over Land Ownership: Evidence from Arable Crop Farming Households in Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Adekunle Chioma Patricia , Tolorunju Esther Toluwatope , Oladele Oladeji Solomon , Coster Adeleke Sabitu
Published: March 2024

Studies have shown that women’s stronger rights to productive assets, particularly land, are linked to household overall welfare due to increased female intra-household bargaining power. Through in-depth interviews with 282 rural women in Ogun State, Nigeria, this study examines women’s involvement in land-related decision-making in their households as well as its socioeconomic determinants. This study models the empirical relationship between women’s land-related bargaining power over land. Women’s land-related bargaining power was estimated with principal component analysis (PCA), and Tobit regression model was used for its determinants. It was found that the women’s mean age was 44 years. On average, the household size was six persons. Women have low bargaining power regarding household land-related decision-making, particularly bequeathing land. Farm households’ land endowment shows that married monogamous households hold an average of 2.64 hectares, cohabiting monogamous households hold 1.82 hectares, and polygamous households hold an average of 4.01 hectares. Women in polygamous household types have lower (19 per cent) access to households’ land through marriage compared to their monogamous counterparts with 61 per cent and 44 per cent for both married and cohabiting monogamous households. 78 per cent of the women have low land-related bargaining power. A mean score of 0.19 was estimated for women’s land-related bargaining power. Women’s land-related bargaining power is influenced by their marital status among other factors; the reverse is the case of their husbands, regardless of whether they are monogamous or polygamous.