bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Efficacy of Polyglycolic Acid-Loading Tetrandrine Nanoparticles in the Treatment of Dry Eye
Authors: Li Tao , Tang Juan , Wu Xiao , Zhang Yu , Du Yangrui , Fang Qilin , Li Jiaman , Du Zhiyu
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactor-induced disease accompanied by increased osmolarity of the tear film and inflammation of the ocular surface. Traditional anti-inflammation agent corticosteroids applied in DED treatment could result in high intraocular pressure, especially in long-term treatment. Therefore, we explored a nano drug that aimed to block the formation pathway of DED which had anti-inflammatory, sustained release, and good biocompatibility characteristics in this study. Methods: We prepared a novel nanomedicine (Tet-ATS@PLGA) by the thin film dispersion-hydration ultrasonic method and detected its nanostructure, particle size, and zeta potential. Flow cytometry was used to detect the cell survival rate of each group after 24 h of drug treatment on inflammed Statens Seruminstitut Rabbit Corneal (SIRC) cells. Observed and recorded corneal epithelial staining, tear film rupture time, and Schirmer test to detect tear secretion on the ocular surface of rabbits. The corneal epithelial thickness, morphology, and number of bulbar conjunctival goblet cells were recorded by H&E staining. Finally, we detected the expression of VEGF, IL-1β, PGE2, and TNF-α by cellular immunofluorescence staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: The encapsulation efficiency and drug loading of Tet-ATS@PLGA were 79.85% and 32.47%, respectively. At eye surface temperature, Tet can easily release from Tet-ATS@PLGA while that it was difficult to release at storage temperature and room temperature. After 2 weeks medication, Tet-ATS@PLGA can effectively improve the tear film rupture time and tear secretion time in a DED model (p <0.05). Compared with the normal group (62.34 ± 4.86 mm), the thickness of corneal epithelium in ATS (29.47 ± 3.21 mm), Tet-ATS (46.23 ± 2.87 mm), and Tet-ATS@PLGA (55.76 ± 3.95 mm) gradually increased. Furthermore, the flow cytometry indicated that Tet-ATS@PLGA can effectively promote the apoptosis of inflammatory SIRC cells, and the cellular immunofluorescence and ELISA experiments showed that the expression intensity of inflammatory factors such as VEGF, IL-1β, PGE2, and TNF-α decreased in this process. Interestingly, Tet also had the effect of reducing intraocular pressure. Conclusion: Tet-ATS@PLGA can effectively promote the apoptosis of inflammatory corneal epithelial cells, thus inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors to block the formation of DED and improve the secretion of tear on the ocular surface.
Prevalence of Pediatric Masked Hypertension and Risk of Subclinical Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chung Jason , Robinson Cal , Sheffield Lauren , Paramanathan Prathayini , Yu Andrew , Ewusie Joycelyne , Sanger Stephanie , Mitsnefes Mark , Parekh Rulan S. , Sinha Manish D. , Rodrigues Myanca , Thabane Lehana , Dionne Janis , Chanchlani Rahul
Published: September 2023

Masked hypertension (MH) occurs when office blood pressure is normal, but hypertension is confirmed using out-of-office blood pressure measures. Hypertension is a risk factor for subclinical cardiovascular outcomes, including left ventricular hypertrophy, increased left ventricular mass index, carotid intima media thickness, and pulse wave velocity. However, the risk factors for ambulatory blood pressure monitoring defined MH and its association with subclinical cardiovascular outcomes are unclear. A systematic literature search on 9 databases included English publications from 1974 to 2023. Pediatric MH prevalence was stratified by disease comorbidities and compared with the general pediatric population. We also compared the prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, and mean differences in left ventricular mass index, carotid intima media thickness, and pulse wave velocity between MH versus normotensive pediatric patients. Of 2199 screened studies, 136 studies (n=28 612; ages 4–25 years) were included. The prevalence of MH in the general pediatric population was 10.4% (95% CI, 8.00–12.80). Compared with the general pediatric population, the risk ratio (RR) of MH was significantly greater in children with coarctation of the aorta (RR, 1.91), solid-organ or stem-cell transplant (RR, 2.34), chronic kidney disease (RR, 2.44), and sickle cell disease (RR, 1.33). MH patients had increased risk of subclinical cardiovascular outcomes compared with normotensive patients, including higher left ventricular mass index (mean difference, 3.86 g/m
2.7
[95% CI, 2.51–5.22]), left ventricular hypertrophy (odds ratio, 2.44 [95% CI, 1.50–3.96]), and higher pulse wave velocity (mean difference, 0.30 m/s [95% CI, 0.14–0.45]). The prevalence of MH is significantly elevated among children with various comorbidities. Children with MH have evidence of subclinical cardiovascular outcomes, which increases their risk of long-term cardiovascular disease.
The fauna of the family Adelidae (Insecta, Lepidoptera, Adeloidea) from China
Authors: LIAO CHENG-QING , HIROWATARI TOSHIYA , YAGI SADAHISA , WANG MIN , WANG XING , HUANG GUO-HUA
Published: September 2023

Ninety-eight species of the family Adelidae, belonging to three genera in two subfamilies, were recorded and described in China, with illustrations of the adults and their genitalia. Keys to subfamilies, genera and species are also provided. Twenty-four new species are described, nine species are newly recorded from China, and four new combinations are made. Ecological photos and DNA barcodes of some species are provided, and the phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences are conducted. The new taxa are as follows: Nemophora pseudalbiantennella Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. badagongshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. longlabiae Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. quadrata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. basalistriata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. digitata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. duplicifascia Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. hunanensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. purpurata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. arcuatifasciata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. caeruliantenna Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. xizangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. caerulea Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. songgangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. conjugata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. latilobula Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. longispina Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. ganziensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. jiajinshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. litangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. tianpingshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. triangulifascia Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. yajiagengensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., and N. bispina Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov. The newly recorded taxa from China are: Nematopogon distinctus Yasuda, 1957, Adela nobilis Christoph, 1882, A. praepilosa Hirowatari, 1997, Nemophora albiantennella Issiki, 1930, N. chionites (Meyrick, 1907), N. smaragdaspis (Meyrick, 1924), N. trimetrella Stringer, 1930, N. optima (Butler, 1878), and N. bifasciatella Issikii, 1930. The new combinations are N. servata (Meyrick, 1925) com. nov., N. diplophragma (Meyrick, 1938) com. nov., N. chionella (Caradja, 1935) com. nov., and N. chrysocharis (Caradja, 1938) com. nov.
Phytochemical Study, Biotechnological Applications and Experimental Evaluation of the Pharmacological Quality of Tamarix Africana Stems Fractions
Authors: Trad Khodja Esma Anissa , Khabtane Abd El Hamid , Arhab Rabah , Bensaad Mohamed Sabri , Beldi Hakima , Bensouici Chawki , Shami Ashjan A. , Banjer Hamsa Jameel , Sami Rokayya , Helal Mahmoud
Published: September 2023

Since antiquity, phytomedicine played a crucial role and many comprehensive texts documenting the medicinal impact of plants were discovered during many civilization eras, suggesting folk medicine is the foundation of modern medicine. This work look into the phytochemical composition,
as well as the pharmacological properties, of Tamarix Africana stems organic fractions. The phytochemical study was carried out using phytochemical screening method while phenolic, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins contents by spectrophotometric approach. The antioxidant
assay was measured using five approaches. Anti-diabetic capacity was investigated with two assays. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the extracts was tested against Artemia Salina nauplii and the photoprotective test was assessed using sun protection factor measurement (SPF). Data revealed
that both extracts contained phenolic substances, the EA fraction had the highest proportion of phenolics, flavonoids, condensed and hydrolysable tannins (825.47±2.34 μg GAE/mg), (238.4±2.11 μg QE/mg), (8.44±1.05 μg CE/mg), (508.23±3.65
μg TAE/mg) respectively. The antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cytotoxicity of these extracts evolved in dose-dependent manner. EA activity was higher than MeOH extract in antioxidant tests. A moderate antidiabetic effect was expressed by EA extract, while this effect was higher for
MeOH extract. A significant cytotoxic and photoprotective effects was observed for both MeOH and EA extracts when compared to the corresponding standards. This study suggests that Tamarix Africana stems has certain pharmacological effects, especially to cure disorders linked to oxidative
stress, glycemia perturbation, dermatopathology and some cancers.
Police Hostage Rescue Operation: Assessing Nigerian Police Alertness and Responses to Kidnapped Victims
Authors: Ajiboye Babatope Matthew
Published: September 2023

Kidnapping and hostage-taking have plagued Nigeria for over two decades, beginning with protests in the country’s Niger-Delta region. Afterward, the phenomenon has spread like a Harmattan bush fire across the country’s length and breadth. Although the phenomenon evolved from sheer agitation it became the most thriving business, even though it is on the wrong side of morality. Evidently, the spectacle has drawn tremendous literature and a crow’s nest that range from its evolution to politics, socioeconomic consequences and alternative negotiation, among other concerns and worries associated with it. Going by studies, the phenomenon has resulted in atrocious ransom payments, inhumane treatment and even deaths of helpless victims. Connectedly, the unpleasant experiences of victims, especially at the hands of their captors, inform this discourse on the alertness and responses of the Nigerian Police to kidnapped victims, which is what has remained either under-assessed or significantly under-examined. Relying significantly on both primary and secondary data, this article assesses the main security institution entrusted with the internal security of the nation, viz-à-viz its response to victims’ calls via operational tools, manpower, training and education, intelligence and synergy with sister security agencies. This article concludes that inadequacies and deficiencies in these variables have stalled the timely rescue of victims by police forces in the country.
A Partnership Model to Enhance Mental Health Staffing: Lessons From Two Community Colleges
Authors: Coll Kenneth M. , Ruch Cathleen B. , Ruch Charles P. , Dimitch Jessica L. , Freeman Brenda J.
Published: September 2023

Objective: Community colleges have historically reported high levels of student mental health needs, with low levels of available face to face services. Ways of meeting this mental health staffing challenge is an area of import for each institution. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this situation. The objective of this analysis is to examine the impact of the pandemic on college students, with particular attention to community college student mental health issues and to illuminate a possible strategy to respond the expanded staffing needs faced by this sector of higher education. Method: This work is based on a review of studies reporting the pandemic’s impact on community college student mental health, and needed mental health staffing. Two case studies, one urban and one rural, are presented here to highlight needed community college-university partnerships focused on increasing mental health professionals for community colleges. Results: The case studies illuminated commonalities between urban-rural settings, as well as challenges. Based on the literature review and case studies a generic model for responding to this critical mental health staffing need is presented. Contributions: This work challenges the notion that traditional staffing arrangements are the only patterns available to expand needed mental health professionals needed in community colleges. Studies of alternative staffing arrangement, evaluation, impact, and student satisfaction are warranted.
Moving With the Tide: Immigrant Reactions to State-Level Policy Changes
Authors: van Holm Eric , Huang Xi , Liu Cathy Yang
Published: September 2023

A wide range of sub-national immigration and immigrant-related policies have been adopted in the United States in the last two decades. Using data from the Urban Institute and IPUMS, the authors analyze the impact of state-level policy climates related to enforcement, integration, and public benefits on inter-state mobility for immigrants. The findings of the present analysis show that immigrants are responsive to changes in the state-level immigration policy climate. They are less likely to move out of states that are on balance more supportive of the foreign-born population and more likely to relocate from restrictive states. In addition, the policy impacts do not vary significantly by immigrants’ education, language fluency, or employment status, calling into question whether the policies miss their intended targets. These findings have implications for local governments and agencies in policy design and implementation as they continue to develop policies targeting the foreign-born population.
National patterns of inequality coverage: Japanese and South Korean newspapers, 1990–2021
Authors: Asahina Yuki , Roh Jiehyun , Yang Jaeseog
Published: September 2023

This article examines how newspaper coverage of inequality differs in Japan and South Korea, countries with comparable levels and nature of income inequality, but whose citizens maintain different attitudes toward it. Analyzing 18,630 articles in six major newspapers from 1990 to 2021, our analysis found (1) Japanese and South Korean newspapers report surprisingly little about inequality even in a period of growing inequality; (2) while South Korean newspapers significantly increased their coverage of within-country inequality in the 2010s, such a trend is not found in Japan; (3) progressive newspapers largely drive the increase in the coverage of inequality in South Korea. We also look closely into the four major topics within inequality coverage – income, employment, generation, and gender – to elaborate on qualitative differences in the ways inequality is discussed in newspapers in both societies. Our findings suggest that there exist nationally specific patterns of inequality coverage and offer important implications for the ongoing discussion about economic inequality in East Asia, as well as the literature on subjective inequality.
Risk and prognostic factors in patients with colon cancer with liver metastasis
Authors: Gao Jiawei , Zhuang Linjun , He Chenxin , Xu Xiangrong , Zhu Zhaobi , Chen Wei
Published: September 2023

Objective

The most common site of metastasis in patients with colon cancer is the liver. This study aimed to identify patients with colon cancer at high risk of developing liver metastasis and to explore their prognosis.

Methods

The clinical characteristics, treatment methods and survival outcomes of patients diagnosed with colon cancer from 2010 to 2015 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of liver metastasis, and multivariate logistic and Cox regression models were used to identify risk and prognostic factors.

Results

A total of 60,018 patients with colon cancer were selected from the SEER database. The incidence of liver metastasis was 9.2%. African American ethnicity, poor differentiation, higher tumor stage, higher lymph node ratio, and lung metastases were common factors associated with both liver metastasis risk and prognosis.

Conclusions

Metastasectomy might improve survival among patients with colon cancer with resectable liver metastasis lesions and no other organ involvement.
Caregiving occupations, health and well-being of Chinese mothers of children with disabilities living in Australia, Singapore and Taiwan
Authors: Sim So Sin , Bourke-Taylor Helen , Yu Mong-Lin , Fossey Ellie , Tirlea Loredana
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Mothers of children with disabilities report increased maternal stress, compromised mental health and reduced leisure and social participation compared with other mothers. The aim of the study was to explore the similarities and differences between three groups of Chinese mothers of children with disabilities in their caregiving occupations and selected maternal variables.

Methods:

An online survey collected mothers’ demography, caregiving occupations and six maternal measures: frequency in participation in health promoting activities, mental well-being, personal well-being, psychological distress, perceived support and perceived stigma. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to investigate group similarities and differences, and detect associations between variables.

Results:

The survey responses of Chinese mothers ( N = 261) from Australia ( n = 80), Singapore ( n = 95) and Taiwan ( n = 86) were analysed. Similarities and differences in caregiving occupations were found between groups. The Kruskal–Wallis test showed no differences in maternal variables between groups. There were associations found between some caregiving occupations and maternal variables when mothers were analysed as a single group.

Conclusion:

The health and well-being of mothers of children with disabilities may be influenced more by their cultural similarities than differences in their socio-political environments. Recognising cultural influences on caregiving occupations is crucial in the delivery of culturally competent and culturally intelligent practice.
Time Work in the Office and Shop: Workers’ Strategic Adaptations to the 4-Day Week
Authors: Moen Phyllis , Chu Youngmin
Published: September 2023

Increasingly popular post-COVID-19 4-day workweek trials challenge deeply embedded 5-day, 40-hour temporal policies and practices, fostering time-work strategies by employees in the face of reduced working hours. This qualitative study in a small business manufacturing customized products finds similar adaptive responses among both office and shop workers. We detect four prevailing time-work strategies: (1) (re) organizing tasks, (2) shifting (work) time, (3) scheduling communication, and a more deliberate form of time shifting, (4) blocking out (work and nonwork) time. These strategies appear to reflect an increasing sense of employee agency. We discuss possible issues around sustainability.
The digital divide: David vs. Goliath
Authors: Kovacic Steve , Carlson Terry
Published: September 2023

There is a global danger that hides in the shadows and is changing the way continuing care operators care for residents. Today, to provide that same historical level of resident care, a group of techno-soldiers are not just a nice-to-have, but are a must, to protect our critical Information Technology (IT) infrastructure. There is little doubt that technology has enabled us to provide better care. Electronic medical records, human resources information systems, and voice over Internet communications systems have created great efficiencies in operations. However, global cybercriminals lurk in the same technologies that support us. Continuously attempting to rob our private information and hold us ransom, or play havoc with our IT systems impeding our provision of care. How can a continuing care operator, an already funding-challenged industry balance the costs of protecting their IT infrastructure against this growing massive threat? Compounding the issue, rising insurance expectations for continuing care operators to continuously enhance their IT safety controls against evolving cyberterrorism. This is the story of the Good Samaritan Society/Canada (Good Samaritan) digital transformation journey. Our digital roadmap sets Good Samaritan up to rise above the ongoing barrage of cyberattacks and loss of insurance. This is a digital divide story of David vs. Goliath.
Demystifying the Impact of Export Promotion Programme on Export Performance of SMEs: A SEM Approach
Authors: Jaiswal Rachana
Published: September 2023

Governments often fund export promotion programmes (EPP) to aid businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in getting past any barriers they may face when trying to expand internationally. However, there is scant empirical evidence showing that these initiatives are successful. Drawing on the findings of a survey of SMEs in Uttar Pradesh, India, this study clarifies how EPP strengthen firms’ export competence and activities. Based on 449 responses from registered exporters and Smart PLS-SEM, results show that perceived usefulness (PU), perceived market competencies (PM), and support mechanisms (SM) favour programme adequacy (PA) and directly affect the performance of the export. Furthermore, by elaborating on how EPPs can affect a company’s export performance (EP), this research fills a void in the current literature by examining the results of EPPs in Uttar Pradesh from the vantage point of the firm as the unit of analysis.
Impact of Environmental and Social Reporting and Performance on Financial Performance of a Firm: An Indian Study
Authors: Sehgal Varsha , Garg Naval , Singh Jagvinder
Published: September 2023

The article analyses the impact of environmental and social reporting on financial performance through two effects. First is the compliance mechanism, where the firm complies with the expected norms of the field, that is, transparency or unambiguity. Second is the disclosure mechanism, which states that the firm can choose what to disclose. We study how both these mechanisms work in the short and long term in the Indian context. We extensively study the sustainability reporting and sustainability performance of Indian firms. We analyse the impact of environmental disclosure/performance and social disclosure/performance on financial performance (accounting ratios, return on assets [ROA] and return on equity [ROE] of the firm). Analysing a sample of 56 companies for 2014–2021, we show that environmental and social sustainability disclosure positively impacts the ROA/ROE in the long run but not in the short run. Further, the environment and social disclosure positively moderate the positive influence of environment/social performance on ROA/ROE in the shorter run but not in the longer run. These results will help managers understand the strategic role sustainability disclosure can play and how environmental and social disclosure can be used to achieve higher legitimacy and reputation and hence maximize firm returns.
Do Disclosures Drive Socially Responsible Investing?
Authors: Kar Rabi Narayan , Kaur Amanpreet
Published: September 2023

With a growing number of nations pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals and increasing their disclosure and reporting norms, Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) is an evolving strategy in developing countries whilst holding mainstream grounds in developed countries. The study examined the performance of SRI indices against their conventional and benchmark counterparts across select developing and developed countries during boom and recessionary periods over 14 years. Notably, the responsible indices in emerging countries are non-penalizing using the mean-variance and risk-adjusted return analysis. Similarly, SRI earned a premium in emerging countries to secure topmost ranks, using Fama’s decomposition model. The performance of SRI was significantly different in India, and abnormal returns were observed for select developing countries during the recessionary phase. Thus, SRI provides a safe haven to investors during adverse times and provides diversification benefits to responsible investors.
Shadow Economy in Physicians’ Sector: The Physicians’ Point of View from Greece
Authors: Stasinopoulos D. , Goula A. , Kastanioti C. , Sarris M. , Soulis S.
Published: September 2023

Tax evasion of self-employed doctors as well as the informal payments made to doctors in public health structures are identified as the two main parameters of Shadow Economy in this sector. In this study, a quantitative survey of 1,022 physicians was conducted to research the attitudes and perceptions of physicians. Although the physicians are mostly opposed to antisocial and unlawful behaviours, they are more tolerant with shadow economy phenomena. The research highlighted a correlation between tax evasion and informal payments where the increase of one phenomenon increases the intensity of the other. ‘Tax evasion’ in the conscience of physicians functions as a ‘corrective mechanism’ in the sector’s charges, which satisfies patients and physicians in the sector of self-employed doctors, acquiring characteristics of ‘Inxit’ of the well-known theory of Gaal and McKee. Informal Payments, on the other hand, as research has shown, act as an incentive for unsatisfied physicians to remain within the public health system. However, they have a negative impact on the employment relationships of health executives while at the same time, they significantly exacerbate the quality of services provided by public health institutions. Deterioration of quality in the ‘organisation’ with open channels of ‘exit’ and ‘voice’, given that there is no ‘loyalty’ of patients in the public health system, as research shows, leads to the conclusion that Informal Payments take on characteristics of ‘utilitarian silence’ on the part of patients, rather than characteristics of an alternative to ‘exit’, ‘protest’—of the well-known ‘EVL’ theory of Hirschman (1970) —or, ultimately, to ‘Inxit’.
Formation of Informal Groups in Healthcare: A Field Survey in Istanbul/Turkiye
Authors: Teker Cenk , Söyler Sait , Çavmak Doğancan
Published: September 2023

Groups within the healthcare organisations are widespread subjects of research nowadays. Nevertheless, informal groups are rarely examined in healthcare. This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to determine the formation of informal groups and its dimensions in Turkey. A survey design was adopted and sample size was 208. The questionnaire was validated using exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The study unveiled that the ownership of hospitals are prominent determinants of informal groups. Demographic, social and environmentally proximity are the main factors for public employees to take part in an informal group while intellectual life and closeness are the main factors for private sector employees. The study suggests that managers should assume the most part of responsibility to determine employee’s abilities, preferences and social features to cooperate with informal groups.
Synchronization of stochastic fractional-order model of muscular blood vessels
Authors: Ranjbar Abedin , Madady Ali , Ramezani Mehdi , Khosravi Alireza
Published: September 2023

This study deals with the synchronization problem of the stochastic fractional-order biomathematical model of muscular blood vessels (SFOMBVs) with nonlinear inputs using a state-feedback adaptive control law, in which the effects of uncertainties and external disturbances are considered in the modeling. The linear state feedback and adaptive laws are combined via an adaptive update law, leading to a simple and robust adaptive feedback scheme. The synchronization and tracking performances of the SFOMBV master and slave systems are investigated, and the stability of the proposed control system is proved based on stochastic analysis techniques and Lyapunov theory. The simulation results show that the proposed control method can lead an abnormal muscular blood vessel to a normal trajectory with good robustness by reducing the tracking error.
Experiences of Online Sexual Violence: Interviews With Swedish Teenage Girls in Psychiatric Care
Authors: Rindestig Frida Carlberg , Gillander Gådin Katja , Dennhag Inga
Published: September 2023

Research about online sexual violence (OSV) is needed to be able to better meet the needs of girls in psychiatric care. The objectives of this study are to explore experiences of online sexual violence among young female psychiatric service users. Interviews with nine girls with psychiatric care needs were analyzed with thematic analysis. The findings are summarized in four themes which contribute to the notion that online sexual violence is only one, albeit important, part of a more complex picture of violence among young girls in psychiatric care. The girls’ narratives are shaped by, as well as reproducing gender norms.
The Effect of Lullabies and Classical Music on Preterm Neonates’ Cerebral Oxygenation, Vital Signs, and Comfort During Orogastric Tube Feeding: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bağli Esra , Küçükoğlu Sibel , Soylu Hanifi
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study investigated the effect of lullabies and classical music on preterm neonates’ cerebral oxygenation, vital signs, and comfort during orogastric (OG) tube feeding.

Methods

This was a parallel-group pretest-posttest randomized controlled study. The research was conducted between December 2020 and May 2022. The sample consisted of 51 preterm neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Selçuk University Faculty of Medicine Hospital in Konya, Türkiye. Participants were randomized into three groups (17 preterm infants in each group). The first group listened to lullabies sung by their mothers and the second group listened to classical music during OG tube feeding. The control group received routine care with no music. Data were collected using a Neonatal Identification Information Form, Physiological Parameters and rSO2 Monitoring Form, and the Newborn Comfort Behavior Scale (Comfort-Neo). The study was registered on the ClinicalTrials database (NCT05333575).

Results

The lullaby group had stable peak heart rates and oxygen saturation levels ( p = .002). Both lullaby and classical music groups had significantly higher cerebral oxygenation levels than the control group. The classical music group had the highest cerebral oxygenation level ( p = .001). Both lullaby and classical music groups had significantly higher mean Comfort-Neo scores than the control group. The classical music group had the highest mean Comfort-Neo score ( p = .040).

Conclusion

Preterm neonates who listen to lullabies and classical music are likely to have higher cerebral oxygen and comfort levels. Listening to lullabies helps stabilize vital signs. These results suggest that healthcare professionals should encourage parents to get their preterm neonates to listen to lullabies and classical music.
SARS-CoV-2 Burden in Wastewater and its Elimination Using Disinfection
Authors: Koirala Prashanna , Dhakal Sandesh , Malla Bikram , Ghimire Archana , Siddiqui Mohammad Ataullah , Dawadi Prabin
Published: September 2023

Background:

Pathogenic viruses have been abundant and diverse in wastewater, reflecting the pattern of infection in humans. Human feces, urine, and perhaps other washouts that frequently circulate in sewage systems may contaminate wastewater with SARS-CoV-2. It’s crucial to effectively disinfect wastewater since poorly handled wastewater could put the population at risk of infection.

Aims:

To emphasize the presence and spread of SARS-CoV-2 in sewage (wastewater) through viral shedding from the patients to detect the virus in the population using wastewater-based epidemiology. Also, to effectively manage the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and reduce the spread of the virus in the population using disinfectants is highlighted.

Methods:

We evaluated articles from December 2019 to August 2022 that addressed SARS-CoV-2 shedding in wastewater and surveillance through wastewater-based epidemiology. We included the papers on wastewater disinfection for the elimination of SARS-CoV-2. Google Scholar, PubMed, and Research4Life are the three electronic databases from which all of the papers were retrieved.

Results:

It is possible for viral shedding to get into the wastewater. The enumeration of viral RNA from it can be used to monitor virus circulation in the human community. SARS-CoV-2 can be removed from wastewater by using modern disinfection techniques such as sodium hypochlorite, liquid chlorine, chlorine dioxide, peracetic acid, and ultraviolet light.

Conclusion:

SARS-CoV-2 burden estimates at the population level can be obtained via longitudinal examination of wastewater, and SARS-CoV-2 can be removed from the wastewater through disinfection.
Assessment and treatment of mental health conditions in children and adolescents: A systematic scoping review of how virtual reality environments have been used
Authors: Blanco Dana , Roberts Rachel M , Gannoni Anne , Cook Steve
Published: September 2023

Background

There is growing interest in the use of virtual reality environments (VREs) in psychological treatment and assessment. Most research has focused on the application of VREs in adult psychological disorders with fewer studies focusing on its applicability with children and adolescents. A systematic scoping review was undertaken of research assessing how VREs have been used in the treatment and assessment of childhood mental health disorders to provide an overview of the current state of the literature and identify future research directions.

Method

Systematic searches of online databases were conducted in PsycInfo, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science.

Results

Eleven studies met eligibility criteria and were included in this review, with the majority focusing on VRE interventions for anxiety-related disorders. There is also emerging support for VRE deep breathing training for anxiety, VRE assisted treatment of internet gaming disorder and anorexia nervosa, and VRE assessment of body image evaluation in anorexia nervosa. Most studies were pilot and feasibility studies with only three randomised-controlled trials (RCT).

Conclusions

The current literature shows some promise for the use of VRE assessments and interventions of childhood mental health problems, particularly for anxiety-related disorders such as social anxiety and specific phobias. However, high-quality RCTs are now needed to establish effectiveness of VREs in this population, and how it compares to existing evidence-based approaches, given its promise to improve both engagement and outcomes.
Snapshots of Family: Family Representations and Practices of Mothering Displayed by Instamothers
Authors: Gawrońska Małgorzata , Sikorska Małgorzata
Published: September 2023

The article explores family representations and practices of mothering displayed by popular Polish Instamothers. We investigate how ‘proper’ motherhood is constructed also with regard to strategies of depicting children and making social class manifest. Janet Finch’s concept of ‘displaying families’ is applied as both a theoretical framework and a set of methodological assumptions. Considering sharing family images on Instagram as a form of display, we assume that published photographs both shape and are shaped by dominant norms and discourses. Relying on content analysis and on semiological analysis, we investigate 100 photographs published by 10 popular Instamothers. The ethical challenges in visual social media research are also discussed. As a solution to the data anonymization problem, we propose the usage of graphics based on photographs.

The results identify a tendency to idealize family life and to promote the traditional family model with its strongly normative character. Simultaneously, elements of the family modernizing discourse are also present. Although limited to Poland, our case study has broader significance for examining the dynamic socio-cultural changes that occur in postmodern societies.
Axial compression behaviour of concrete filled double skin steel tube columns anchored with orbicular rings: Experimental and numerical approach
Authors: Singh Harpreet , Tiwary Aditya Kumar
Published: September 2023

Double-skin tube column sections have been used extensively in recent years. These sections are composed of two adjacent, coaxially spaced steel casings, and the space in the middle of them is occupied with concrete. These CFDST columns behave similarly to CFST sections but are more rigid and have a lesser self-weight. The behavior of a novel type of CFDST column, the orbicular anchored CFDST column, was assessed under axial compression in the current research. It comprises an inside and an outside steel tube with orbicular rings near the ends of the columns. The orbicular rings were positioned at various spots such as [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] and a wide range of tests were accomplished to evaluate the functionality of orbicular anchored CFDST columns in respect of maximum load-bearing capability, load-strain behavior, and load-deformation behavior. A FE model was developed and its accuracy was authenticated by comparing its findings with experimental results. Furthermore, a parametric investigation was carried out employing the authenticated FE model to examine the functioning of the proposed CFDST to variations in orbicular position, cross-sectional dimensions of rings, yield strength of orbicular ring, etc. The outcomes of the study indicated that orbicular anchored CFDST columns had 15% higher ultimate load capacity than unstiffened counterparts. The orbicular anchorage improved the ductile response and increased the axial stiffness of the CFDST column. Further, it was concluded that orbicular rings enhanced the constraining effect of external steel casing on sandwiched concrete and improved the composite action of CFDST specimens. The design formula to ascertain the load-bearing ability of columns was also developed and can be employed amid preliminary designs of proposed column sections.
Women's Preferences for Masculinity in Male Faces Are Predicted by Material Scarcity, But Not Time or Psychological Scarcity
Authors: Lee Anthony J. , McGuire Nikita K. J.
Published: September 2023

Facial femininity in men is purportedly used as a cue by women as a signal of parental quality and willingness to provide resources. Accordingly, in contexts where choosing a partner that will provide resources is more beneficial (e.g., when resources are scarce), women have shown an increase preference for facial femininity in male faces. However, domains of scarcity often covary, and it is, therefore, unclear whether these contextual shifts in facial masculinity/femininity preferences are specific to material scarcity (as implied by previous theory), or due to an unrelated domain of scarcity (e.g., time or psychological scarcity). Here, a sample of 823 women completed the Perceived Scarcity Scale, which measures three separate domains of scarcity: material scarcity, time scarcity, and psychological scarcity. Participants also rated the attractiveness of 42 male faces, which were measured on objective sexual dimorphism and perceived masculinity. Consistent with theory, material scarcity, and not time or psychological scarcity, was associated with a decreased preference for objective sexual dimorphism (i.e., an increased preference for facial femininity). This study provides evidence that women use sexual dimorphism as a cue to material resource provisioning potential when assessing men as a mate.
mpitb: A toolbox for multidimensional poverty indices
Authors: Suppa Nicolai
Published: September 2023

In this article, I present mpitb, a toolbox for multidimensional poverty indices (MPIs). The package mpitb comprises several subcommands to facilitate specification, estimation, and analyses of MPIs and supports the popular Alkire– Foster framework to multidimensional poverty measurement. mpitb offers several benefits to researchers, analysts, and practitioners working on MPIs, including substantial time savings (for example, because of lower data management and programming requirements) while allowing for a more comprehensive analysis at the same time. Aside from various convenience functions, mpitb also provides low-level tools for advanced users and programmers.
Facilities for optimizing and designing multiarm multistage (MAMS) randomized controlled trials with binary outcomes
Authors: Choodari-Oskooei Babak , Bratton Daniel J. , Parmar Mahesh K. B.
Published: September 2023

We introduce two commands, nstagebin and nstagebinopt, that can be used to facilitate the design of multiarm multistage (MAMS) trials with binary outcomes. MAMS designs are a class of efficient and adaptive randomized clinical trials that have successfully been used in many disease areas, including cancer, tuberculosis, maternal health, COVID-19, and surgery. The nstagebinopt command finds a class of efficient “admissible” designs based on an optimality criterion using a systematic search procedure. The nstagebin command calculates the stagewise sample sizes, trial timelines, and overall operating characteristics of MAMS designs with binary outcomes. Both commands allow the use of Dunnett’s correction to account for multiple testing. We also use the ROSSINI 2 MAMS design, an ongoing MAMS trial in surgical wound infection, to illustrate the capabilities of both commands. The new commands facilitate the design of MAMS trials with binary outcomes where more than one research question can be addressed under one protocol.
Estimating text regressions using txtreg_train
Authors: Schwarz Carlo
Published: September 2023

In this article, I introduce new commands to estimate text regressions for continuous, binary, and categorical variables based on text strings. The command txtreg_train automatically handles text cleaning, tokenization, model training, and cross-validation for lasso, ridge, elastic-net, and regularized logistic regressions. The txtreg_predict command obtains the predictions from the trained text regression model. Furthermore, the txtreg_analyze command facilitates the analysis of the coefficients of the text regression model. Together, these commands provide a convenient toolbox for researchers to train text regressions. They also allow sharing of pretrained text regression models with other researchers.
winratiotest: A command for implementing the win ratio and stratified win ratio in Stata
Authors: Gregson John , Ferreira João Pedro , Collier Tim
Published: September 2023

The win ratio is a statistical method most commonly used for analyzing composite outcomes in clinical trials. Composite outcomes comprise two or more distinct “component” events (for example, myocardial infarction or death) and are typically analyzed using time-to-first-event methods ignoring the relative importance of the component events. When using the win ratio, component events are instead placed into a hierarchy from most to least important; more important components can then be prioritized over less important outcomes (for example, death can be prioritized over myocardial infarction). Furthermore, the win ratio enables outcomes of different types (for example, time-to-event, continuous, binary, ordinal, and repeat events) to be combined. We present winratiotest, a command to implement the win-ratio approach for hierarchical outcomes in a flexible and user-friendly way.
Review of Multilevel and Longitudinal Modeling Using Stata, Fourth Edition, by Sophia Rabe-Hesketh and Anders Skrondal
Authors: Grilli Leonardo , Rampichini Carla
Published: September 2023

This article reviews Multilevel and Longitudinal Modeling Using Stata, Fourth Edition, by Rabe-Hesketh and Skrondal (2022, Stata Press).
Framing Security Under Time Pressure: Brand Familiarity Matters for Mobile Application Choices
Authors: Chen Jing , Parker Cody
Published: September 2023

The current study examined the effects of security score framing, time pressure, and brand familiarity on mobile application choices. Past research has found the framing of safety versus risk scores affects how potential risks for mobile apps are communicated to users. Both time pressure and brand familiarity have been shown to affect consumers’ purchase behaviors but not yet for app-selection decisions. The current study examined the effects of time pressure and brand familiarity on the effectiveness of risk displays (framed as safety or risk) for mobile apps. Participants were shown screenshots of various apps with these factors manipulated, and they were to choose one out of six apps. Our findings indicate that users rely heavily on brand familiarity when choosing apps, which could lead to insecure decisions. Additionally, security scores guided app choices toward more secure apps when framed as safety than when framed as risk, although this advantage was only evident without time pressure and disappeared under time pressure. The design implications call for more careful screening and user education about the potential risks associated familiar apps, as well as the need of new security design solutions to help users under time pressure.
Numerical investigation of turbulent mixed convection in a round bottom flask using a hybrid nanofluid
Authors: Baiti Adel , Salhi Hicham , Chafai Nadjib
Published: September 2023

In this study, we conducted a numerical investigation of the turbulent mixed convection of a hybrid nanofluid (HNF) in a flask equipped with an agitator, which is commonly used in organic chemistry synthesis. The bottom wall and the middle section of the flask were maintained at a constant high temperature Th, while the upper, left, and right walls up to the middle of the flask were kept at a low temperature Tc. The HNF consisted of Graphene (Gr) and Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanoparticles (NP) dispersed in pure water. The governing equations were solved numerically using the finite size approach and formulated using the Boussinesq approximation. The effects of the NP volume fraction φ (ranging from 0% to 6%), the Rayleigh number Ra (ranging from 104 to 106), and the Nusselt number ( Nu) were investigated in this simulation. The results indicated that the heat transfer is noticeably influenced by the Ra number and the increase in the φ ratio. Additionally, the agitator rotation speed had a slight effect on the heat transfer.
From the ‘Musical Agora’ to an ‘Extreme Sport’: Negotiating Live Music’s Values in a Context of Urban Informality, Corruption and Violence in Mexico City
Authors: Spanu Michaël
Published: September 2023

Mexico City’s live music industry is well integrated into transnational economic flows, sharing certain features of the Global North, while simultaneously maintaining an informal organization and conflicting dynamics typical of the Global South. Since the late 1990s, both the government and the entertainment industry in Mexico City have increasingly invested in live music, reflecting a strong emphasis on economic and political capitalization. In contrast, a notable segment of live music professionals has developed a distinctive yet contentious set of values, in which live music constitutes an essential component of urban life. This article investigates independent promoters and venue managers through 21 detailed interviews. Beginning in the informal economy of the city, interviewees started live music projects for creative purposes and brought people together to form emotional connections. The concept of ‘musical agora’ embodies their unique combination of values, emphasizing their potential contribution to local cultural democracy. However, factors such as the market structure, bureaucracy, corruption and violence turn most independent live music activity into an ‘extreme sport’, reflecting the complex nature of professionalization processes within cultural sectors in Mexico City.