bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of stipe and midrib morpho-anatomy on the taxonomy of Polypodiaceous ferns
Authors: MONDAL SINJINI , MOKTAN SAURAV
Published: September 2023

After decades of uncertainty, the current fern classification corroborates traditional morphology with molecular evidence and is widely accepted. However, in the complex family Polypodiaceae, some major generic recircumscriptions are still open. The present study aims to provide a comprehensive account of the stipe and midrib morpho-anatomical features of polypodiaceous ferns from the eastern Himalayan region. Fresh specimens belonging to 24 species were collected from the study area. Macro-morphological features like colour, size, and texture were observed in the field with the aid of a dissection microscope while micro-morphological traits like scales, indument, and anatomical details were observed under a compound microscope. The type of tissues, arrangement of vascular bundles, the shape of xylem, and circumendodermal band seem to be of taxonomic significance. The UPGMA reveals comparable correlations with previously published clades and relationships based on morphological as well as molecular data.
Encyclia × tixtlensis (Orchidaceae: Laeliinae), a possible natural hybrid between E. meliosma and E. atrorubens in Guerrero, México
Authors: LEÓN-PERALTA CEKOUAT E. , SALMERÓN-BARRERA EDGAR , PERÉZ-GARCÍA EDUARDO A.
Published: September 2023

Encyclia × tixtlensis, a possible natural hybrid between E. atrorubens and E. meliosma recently found in the State of Guerrero, Mexico, is described and illustrated. Aspects of its possible hybrid origin are discussed, and a comparison is made with other Encyclia taxa found in the same region. The conical-piriform shape of its pseudobulbs, the straight or slightly reflexed leaves, as well as its flowers with light to dark brown sepals and petals, the lip with wide lobes, brown at its base and profusely magenta-streaked, and the column with a bending in the basal third, distinguish it from any other taxon in the genus.
Contribution to the knowledge of Chinese Gryllacrididae (Orthoptera) XIX: New supplements to the genus Apterolarnaca Gorochov, 2004
Authors: ZHANG QIANWEN , LUO YEHONG , BIAN XUN
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we first provide holotype illustrations of six known species. Then based on new specimens, five new species are described. We also discovered the male sex of Apterolarnaca (Bianigryllacris) quadratus (Li & Liu, 2015), and described and illustrated for the first time. All examined specimens are deposited in Guangxi Normal University.
Mixing Processes at the Southwestern Entrance to the Japan/East Sea
Authors: Wijesekera Hemantha W. , Luecke Conrad A. , Wang David W. , Jarosz Ewa , DeRada Sergio , Teague William J. , Chang Kyung-Il , Lee Jae Hak , Min Hong-Sik , Nam SungHyun
Published: September 2023

Small-scale processes at the southwestern boundary of the Ulleung Basin (UB) in the Japan/East Sea (JES) were examined using combined ship-based and moored observations along with model output. Model results show baroclinic semidiurnal tides are generated at the shelf break and corresponding slope connecting the Korea/Tsushima Strait with the UB and propagate into the UB with large barotropic-to-baroclinic energy conversion over the slope. Observations show high-frequency internal wave packets and indicate strong velocity shear and energetic turbulence associated with baroclinic tides in the stratified bottom layer. Solitary-like waves with frequencies from 0.2N to 0.5N (buoyancy frequency N) were found at the edge of the shelf break with supercritical flow. For subcritical flow, a hydraulic jump formed over the shelf break with weakly dispersive internal lee waves with frequencies varying from 0.5N to N. These high-frequency lee waves were trapped in the stratified bottom layer, with wave stress similar to the turbulent stress near the bottom. The power loss due to turbulent bottom drag can be an important factor for energy loss associated with the hydraulic jump. Turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates of ∼10−4 W kg−1 were found. Large downward heat and salt fluxes below the high-salinity core mix warm/salty Tsushima Current Water with cold/low-salinity JES Intermediate Water. Mixing over the shelf break could be very important to the JES circulation since the calculated diapycnal upwelling (1–6 m day−1) at the shelf break and slope is substantially greater than the basin-averaged estimate from chemical tracers and modeling studies.

Significant Statement

The Japan/East Sea (JES) is a marginal sea, enclosed by Japan, Korea, and Russia. This study describes mixing processes over the shelf break connecting the northern Korea/Tsushima Strait (KTS) with the southern Ulleung Basin (UB), where the warm, high-salinity Kuroshio water carried by the Tsushima Current interacts with southward-flowing subsurface water masses in the JES. Our analysis suggests that the shelf break and slope between the KTS and the UB are vital areas for water-mass exchange in the southern JES. The enhanced mixing at the shelf break may impact water masses and circulation over the entire JES.
Food Insecurity in the Elective Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Colorectal Surgical Population: Prevalence and Implications for Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Tolkacz Michael , Reilly Danielle , Studzinski Diane M. , Callahan Rose E. , DeMare Alexander , Kawak Samer , Ziegler Matthew
Published: September 2023

Background

Food insecurity is defined as having limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate food. Approximately 10.5% of U.S. households are food-insecure. Our study aimed to determine the prevalence and postoperative implications of food insecurity in a diverse group of colorectal surgery patients admitted to a hospital in an area with a higher-than-average median income.

Methods

The 6-question Household Food Security Survey was added to the colorectal surgery ERAS program preoperative paperwork. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative parameters, length of stay, and postoperative outcomes were collected by review of electronic medical records.

Results

A total of 294 ERAS patients (88.8%) completed the survey over an 11-month period. Thirty-three patients (11.2%) were identified as food-insecure. Food-insecure patients were more likely to be non-white ( P = .003), younger ( P = .009), smokers ( P = .004), chronic narcotic users ( P < .001), unmarried ( P = .007), and have more comorbidities ( P = .004). The food-insecure population had more frequent postoperative ileus ( P = .044). Hospital length of stay was significantly longer in food-insecure patients (8.6 days vs 5.4 days, P < .001). Food-insecure patients also had higher rates of >30-day mortality ( P = .049).

Discussion

Food insecurity was found to occur in patients that lived in communities deemed both affluent and distressed. These patients had longer hospital stays and higher mortality. A food insecurity questionnaire can easily identify patients at risk. Further investigations to mitigate these complications are warranted.
Overcoming the Contact Problem in Quantitative Attenuated Total Reflection Spectroscopy Analysis of Flat Samples
Authors: Vieira Luis G.
Published: September 2023

A method for measuring the optical functions of a flat sample made of homogeneous and isotropic material, using attenuated total reflection spectroscopy when there is poor contact between the sample and the internal reflection element is presented. The approach consists in treating the spacing between the internal reflection element and the sample as an adjustable parameter, along with the dispersion model parameters, in the simultaneous fitting of s- and p-polarized spectra obtained when the gap distance is unknown. The method is tested with both synthetic and experimental (polystyrene) spectra. The results demonstrate the method's ability to accurately determine the optical functions even in the presence of a contact problem.
The use of extended reality (XR) in patient education: A critical perspective
Authors: Curran Vernon R , Hollett Ann
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Extended reality (XR) has emerged as an innovative educational modality that offers the potential for the creation of more interactive and engaging forms of patient education experiences and products. The purpose of this article is to describe the field of XR technologies and review its potential through a critical lens as well as its possible adoption as a mainstream technology for providing patient education in the future.

Method:

A review of the literature was undertaken to summarise the emerging evidence concerning the effectiveness of XR as a patient education modality. The findings of several reviews are summarised and a critical discussion of potential issues and challenges in the adoption and use of XR among particular marginalised populations are explored.

Results:

The emerging evidence suggests that different forms of XR technology applications have the potential to create immersive and engaging patient education experiences that can lead to enhanced patient satisfaction, positive educational outcomes and reduced patient anxiety. Nonetheless, there have been calls for greater consideration of how patient characteristics, including socioeconomic status, gender, cultural and generational differences, influence the learning effects of virtual reality educational applications, as well as its adoption and implementation for patient education purposes.

Conclusion:

The evidence surrounding the effectiveness of XR in patient education is growing; however, various factors could influence the successful adoption and implementation of XR in different patient populations who have traditionally experienced challenges with digital health literacy. The paper offers some recommendations for enhancing the evidence base and potential approaches to advance the design and evaluation of XR applications in patient education.
Exploring the Interdependencies Between Transportation and Stormwater Networks: The Case of Norman, Oklahoma
Authors: Kays H. M. Imran , Sadri Arif Mohaimin , Muraleetharan K. K. “Muralee” , Harvey P. Scott , Miller Gerald A.
Published: September 2023

The significance of critical infrastructure systems in maintaining productivity is undeniable. However, such systems remain susceptible to external disturbances and cascading failures. Instead of operating independently, these physical systems, such as transportation and stormwater systems, form an interdependent system. This interdependence, particularly important during flooding, illustrates that the failure of a stormwater system can disrupt traffic networks. To explore the extent of such interdependency, this study investigates the transportation and stormwater networks in Norman, Oklahoma. Using network science theories and concepts of multilayered networks, this paper analyzes these systems, both individually and in combination. The study identifies closely located components in the road and stormwater networks using Moran's I spatial autocorrelation metric. Next, the connectivity of these networks is represented in a graph format to investigate the topological credentials (i.e., rank of relative importance) of the network components (i.e., water inlets, road intersections as nodes, and stormwater conduits, road segments as links). Moreover, such credentials further change by considering the weights of the network components (i.e., average daily traffic, water flow). The proximity-based connectivity considerations between these networks utilizing Moran's I significance score revealed a good indicator of spatial interdependency. When incorporating directionality, the multilayer network analysis highlights that highly central components tend to cluster spatially, unlike the undirected counterpart. The study also identifies vulnerable locations and network components in a combined network setting that differ from the networks in isolation. In doing so, the research reveals new insights governing the complex reliance of transportation systems on neighboring stormwater systems.
The effect of no oral antibiotic versus 7 days oral antibiotic during discharge in double J stented patients on stent related urinary tract infection: A randomized study
Authors: Negi Saurabh Kumar , Kumar Pritam , Desai Sandip , Vyas Nachiket , Priyadarshi Shivam
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To evaluate effects of 7 days oral antibiotic prophylaxis versus no antibiotics in the patients with DJ stents after 3 days iv antibiotic on discharge with respect to urinary tract infection and stent related symptoms.

Material and methods:

A prospective randomized study in 90 patients being stented post PCNL/URSL. Group A: no oral antibiotics was given at the time of discharge, Group B: 7 days of oral antibiotic was given at the time of discharge. Patients were followed up and outcomes were assessed in the form of lower urinary symptoms (LUTS), urine culture and sensitivity at 1 and 3 weeks and DJ stent culture and sensitivity on removal at 3 weeks.

Results:

There was no significant difference in age, gender, type of surgery (PCNL/URSL), duration of DJ stent between the two groups. Patients in group A and Group B have comparable UTI and stent related symptoms at 1 and 3 weeks respectively ( p = 0.95 and p = 0.916 respectively). Similarly, there were no marked difference in urine culture at 1 and 3 weeks, respectively between two groups ( p = 0.71 and p = 0.63, respectively). Overall there were no significant differences in Urinary symptoms, urine culture/sensitivity at 1 and 3 weeks and also DJ stent culture and sensitivity on removal at 3 weeks between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The incidence of UTI and stent related symptoms are same in both the groups. Therefore, prescribing oral antibiotics on discharge in selected patient with DJ stent has no added benefit and should be avoided.
Public Perceptions of the Police During COVID-19: A Cross-National Analysis
Authors: Chenane Joselyne L. , Horning Amber , Perry Sean , Stevens Catherine
Published: September 2023

Using cross-national data collected during the pandemic, this study examines factors influencing public willingness to obey and cooperate with police during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data for the study were garnered using web-based surveys, which yielded about 500 participants from the U.S., India, Brazil, Kenya, and several European countries. OLS results revealed that police legitimacy remains a crucial predictor of public willingness to obey and cooperate with the police. However, fears experienced during the pandemic failed to directly predict public's obligation to obey the police and their willingness to cooperate with the police. Interestingly, fear had an indirect effect on the relationship between police legitimacy and the obligation to obey and cooperate with the police. Conceptualizations of police legitimacy should continue to be tested, alternative versions of surveying without the limitations of COVID-19 should be undertaken, and attempts to understand more local environments should be made.
Prevalence and Correlates of Economic Abuse Among Married Women in a Nigerian Population
Authors: Nduka Chinelo C. , Omuemu Vivian , Adedayo Tella , Adogu Prosper , Ifeadike Chigozie
Published: September 2023

Economic abuse (EA) is a form of intimate partner violence (IPV) whereby abusers employ various tactics to control their partners’ ability to acquire, access, and maintain economic resources thus threatening their economic security and potential for self-sufficiency. It poses a global public health challenge as economic concern is a significant reason for the observed persistent high prevalence of IPV given that even when women want to leave abusive relationships, they are less likely to if they lack the means to cater for themselves and their children upon doing so. However, very few studies in Nigeria have focused on EA. The current study assessed the prevalence and correlates of EA among a Nigerian population of married women. Survey responses of 480 randomly selected married women were used for analysis. The prevalence of EA among respondents was found to be 64.2% while that for emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and physical abuse were 40.2%, 17.3%, and 16.7%, respectively. EA was also found to be significantly associated with other forms of IPV such as physical abuse, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. The study findings add to the literature by highlighting the high prevalence of EA among Nigerian women. It also underscores the importance of empowering women to minimize victimization. Study limitations are discussed and directions for future research are presented.
Problem-Focused Coping and Teacher Emotional Violence: A Serial Mediation Analysis
Authors: Kızıltepe Rukiye , Yılmaz Irmak Türkan , Hecker Tobias
Published: September 2023

Although school violence is a serious problem, teacher emotional violence that has short- and long-term detrimental effects on children’s development is often overlooked. Considering the potential negative effects, it is important to determine teacher characteristics associated with teacher emotional violence, especially in societies where the prevalence rate of emotional violence is high. The current study investigated the role of teacher stress and burnout and favorable attitudes toward emotional violence in the association between problem-focused coping and teacher emotional violence. Between February and June 2019, a cross-sectional study was conducted in 16 randomly selected secondary schools in İzmir, Turkey. In total, 205 secondary school teachers (64.4% females, Mage = 37.20 years) participated in this study. Participants completed questionnaires that assessed their use of emotional violence, favorable attitudes toward emotional violence, stress and burnout, and problem-focused coping. A serial mediation model was conducted. The model indicated that problem-focused coping was not directly associated with teacher emotional violence. Examination of indirect pathways suggested that favorable attitudes toward emotional violence did not mediate this relationship; however, stress and burnout mediated the link between problem-focused coping and emotional violence. In addition, there was a significant indirect effect from problem-focused coping to emotional violence through stress and burnout and favorable attitudes toward emotional violence. The findings indicate a potential role of teacher characteristics in preventing teacher emotional violence.
Outcomes of State Targeted/Opioid Response Grants and the Medication First Approach: Evidence of Racial Inequities in Improved Treatment Access and Retention
Authors: Winograd Rachel , Budesa Zach , Banks Devin , Carpenter Ryan , Wood Claire A. , Duello Alex , Thater Paul , Smith Christine
Published: September 2023

Background:

Since 2017, Missouri has increased access to medication for opioid use disorder (OUD) within the State’s publicly-funded substance use specialty treatment system through a “Medication First” approach. Results from a statewide assessment of the first year of State Targeted Response implementation showed increases and improvements in overall treatment admissions, medication utilization, and treatment retention. The current study, which focuses on the St. Louis region, the epicenter of Missouri’s overdose crisis, examines whether improvements were experienced equally among Black and White clients.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective analysis using state-level billing records for individuals with OUD receiving services through publicly-funded substance use treatment programs between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2019, with claimed services updated through November 1, 2020. Comparisons across time periods, treatment groups, and Black and White clients were assessed using chi-square tests of independence and multivariate negative binomial regressions.

Results:

White individuals in St. Louis experienced larger increases in treatment admissions and utilization of medications for OUD than Black individuals, and Black clients were retained in treatment for shorter lengths of time than White clients.

Conclusion:

In Missouri, rates of drug overdose deaths are more than three times higher for Black people than White people. Racial inequities in OUD treatment utilization and retention must be intentionally targeted and corrected as one component of reducing this sizable disparity in fatalities.
Standards of diabetes care and burden of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes on peritoneal dialysis: Results from a real-world clinical audit
Authors: Wijewickrama Piyumi , Onyema Michael , Eid Hatem , Phare Natalie , Dick Jonathan , Moutzouris Dimitrios , Lambie Mark , Vas Prashant , Williams Jennifer , Karalliedde Janaka
Published: September 2023

There is limited data on the standards of diabetes care in people on peritoneal dialysis (PD). Our aim was to assess the standards of diabetes care and the burden of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes on PD. We performed a retrospective study at three university hospitals from December 2021 to January 2022. Clinical data were extracted from electronic health records. Diabetes care of people on PD was compared against recommended standards for people with diabetes on haemodialysis (as there are no agreed standards for PD). The degree of hypoglycaemia awareness was assessed by validated questionnaires. A total of 65 adults (15 type 1, 49 type 2 and 1 monogenic-diabetes) with a mean age of 63 (range 29–88) years were evaluated. Of them, 92% had diabetes retinal screening with annual review. In contrast, in this high-risk group for foot disease, only 77% had annual foot reviews. The rates of diabetes specialist reviews were variable between hospitals at 63–94% and 10 (15%) had impaired hypoglycaemia awareness. Of the cohort, 32% had HbA1c within the acceptable range of 58–80 mmol/mol (7.5–8.5%), 21% had HbA1c below 58 mmol/mol (7.5%) and 21% ( n = 14) reported at least one hypoglycaemic event per month. Our results indicate variation of care within and between different centres, and the need for improved diabetes care in people on PD. Further work is required to establish agreed standards/recommendations of diabetes care in this population. Our findings highlight the necessity of an integrated multidisciplinary approach to improve the standard of diabetes care for people on PD.
Dynamic analysis of an electro-hydraulic interconnected actuator energy regeneration suspension
Authors: Liu Pengtao , Kou Farong , Chen Yixiao , Xu Jianan , Guo Xinru
Published: September 2023

A hydraulic interconnected suspension with energy recovery (EHA-HIS) is proposed to enhance riding comfort and road-holding ability while converting vibration energy into usable electrical energy. This paper mainly focuses on the dynamic analysis of a vehicle suspension model integrated with the EHA-HIS. The mathematical model of EHA-HIS is established based on the system structure analysis. The characteristics of the EHA-HIS are given based on a parameter analysis including the input and structural parameters under a sinusoidal excitation. Thereafter, vehicles equipped with the EHA-HIS and traditional suspensions are compared in terms of dynamic performance, and the simulation is implemented to study the energy harvesting performance of a vehicle with the EHA-HIS. The simulation results suggest that the damping force and harvested power are proportional to the frequency and amplitude of the sinusoidal input. The simulation also shows that the piston diameter has the greatest influence on the characteristics of the EHA-HIS. The analysis indicates that EHA-HIS can recover vibration energy while improving vehicle dynamic performance, and the harvestable power increases with the road grade and vehicle speed.
The mundane politics of war in Taiwan: Psychological preparedness, civil defense, and permanent war
Authors: Liu Wen
Published: September 2023

The concept of war has always been taken for granted in the study of Taiwan vis-a-vis the People’s Republic of China. Under the dominant international narrative, Taiwan is often framed as a contested territory, where its land and sovereignty are up for competition. While recent escalating geopolitical tension has brought increasing international attention to Taiwan, international discourse on Taiwanese sovereignty has been largely limited to a traditional conception of war that views Taiwan as a geopolitical pawn in a ‘new Cold War’ between the United States and the People’s Republic of China or, under the banner of ‘geopolitical realism’, treats the rise of Taiwanese national identity as war-making. Both approaches minimize the significance of Taiwanese sovereignty and subjectivity in the struggle between superpowers. This article intervenes in both of these views by applying the framework of martial empiricism with an analysis of the subjectivity of war preparedness in Taiwanese civil society to demonstrate that war has become a normative and liberal mode of politics in Taiwan. From my ethnographic fieldwork on the grass-roots mobilization of civil defense in the time of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I illustrate how civil defense rearticulates war not as a distant, spectacular event but as a mundane scenario that can be prepared for through daily practices and communal planning in Taiwan.
Accompaniment and Bearing Witness: The Path Through Liminal Spaces in Healthcare
Authors: Hood-Patterson Dawn , Carter Brian S.
Published: September 2023

Clinician-healers bear witness to suffering and accompany patients and families through the liminal spaces of an illness experience. Bearing witness to a patient’s suffering is a form of attunement toward the ill or hospitalized person. Non-action, or wu wei, becomes illustrative of the empathy that develops as clinicians bear witness to the suffering of patients and families. This empathic response highlights the clinician’s moral obligation to accompany their patients. Accompaniment is a form of “co-action” which orients the clinician to a mutual relationship with patients and families. Co-action incites new meaning-making within the liminal spaces and holds the potential to change the clinician’s identity as practitioner and healer.
Post-Academia: Life, Liberty, and Happiness?
Authors: Francis Badley Graham
Published: September 2023

In this narrative autoethnography, I reflect on living in Post-Academia. First, I discuss how universities have become more managerial and less collegial. Then, I consider my own move from being an academic to becoming a post-academic (even verging on the post-humous). Finally, I look at the possibilities of living a sort of flourishing life in post-academia, enjoying a new sense of liberty, and accepting, despite increasing decrepitude, enough happiness to see me through.
‘Filling the void with melody’: Therapists’ reflections on group songwriting using GarageBand in music therapy for adults with depression
Authors: Bent Cornelia , Wetherick Donald , Carr Catherine Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Songwriting is widely used in individual music therapy but less often in groups. This article draws on the authors’ experience of facilitating music therapy groups for adults with severe depression using songwriting. This work was part of the SYNCHRONY study, funded by the National Institute for Health Research, to assess the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial of group music therapy with a songwriting component for patients with long-term depression (1 year or longer) within the community. The authors (all music therapists in the study) describe their experiences and reflections on the group processes and use of songwriting, drawing on semi-structured interviews conducted as part of the study. Themes of the work included pre-composed songs as a more accessible way to talk about difficult experiences, musical improvisation enabling an environment for songwriting, the impact of difficulties in attendance on group cohesion and the songwriting process, building confidence through song development and recording, and considerations around the end process and creating the song album. These are illustrated with clinical vignettes. Some recommendations for practice are also offered. The authors hope to identify the potentials and challenges of a songwriting approach in a community mental health context.
Intra-Acting With Technology During Remote Fieldwork in Homes: Curating Video Interviews and Drawing Methods
Authors: Teigen Helene F , Paupini Cristina , Mainsah Henry
Published: September 2023

The ubiquity of remote research practices and the increased adoption of videoconferencing tools are forcing researchers to pay attention to the features of these technologies and how they shape the research encounter. This article draws on experience from a Norwegian research project about digital vulnerabilities and living with smart home technologies. Participants were invited to draw floor plans of their homes, enact everyday routines, and perform a house tour on camera. By enacting collective memory work, reviewing, and discussing fieldnotes and other materials from the interviews, the authors have reflected upon experiences and identified lessons and implications for further research. Drawing on a socio-material approach that views digital technologies as active participants in enacting the research event, the article highlights how the presence of videoconferencing technology shapes the research situation and how data is generated. We show how videoconferencing tools can provide both access to and constraints on what can be done and who can participate and underline the importance of skills for both researchers and participants. We demonstrate how the handholding of the camera and the frame of the lens direct what is seen during a video interview, and how power dynamics between participants and researchers are shaped. We conclude that researchers need to be mindful of how agency is negotiated between technology and humans during remote fieldwork.
Transcending prison walls: Prison podcasts, the listening experience, and narrative change
Authors: Cecil Dawn K.
Published: September 2023

Prison stories play an important role in people’s understanding of incarceration with the underlying messages often supporting it as an effective solution for the crime problem. While core elements flow between most types of prison representations, advances in media technology present new ways of constructing these stories, making it easier for those who have experienced incarceration to control the message. Podcasting is one such development. This easily accessible medium is able to present a unique listening experience that has been found to induce empathy, strengthen the connection to the subject, and has the potential to contribute to changes in attitudes. This article compares two incarceration narrative podcasts, Ear Hustle and Red Onion Randy—Life in a Supermax, to demonstrate the potential power of this intimate form of media. Drawing from transportation theory, as well as literature on literary journalism and auditory storytelling, it considers how podcasting can be utilized to create a lived or felt experience for listeners that has the potential to begin to shift popular incarceration narratives.
Xanthohumol relieves arthritis pain in mice by suppressing mitochondrial-mediated inflammation
Authors: Wang Qin , Chen Tao , Shuqing Zhen , Yu Liangzhu , Chen Shaohui , Lu Hong , Zhu Haili , Min Xie , Li Xiong , Liu Ling
Published: September 2023

Chronic pain is the most common symptom for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and it affects approximately 1% of the global population. Neuroinflammation in the spinal cord induces chronic arthritis pain. In this study, a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice model was established through intradermally injection of type II collagen in complete Freund’s adjuvant solution. Following CIA inducement, the paws and ankles of mice were found to swell, mechanical pain and spontaneous pain were induced, and their motor coordination was impaired. The spinal inflammatory reaction was triggered, which presented as severe infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the expression levels of GFAP, IL-1β, NLRP3, and cleaved caspase-1 increased. Oxidative stress in the spinal cord of CIA mice was manifested as reduced Nrf2 and NDUFB11 expression and SOD activity, and increased levels of DHODH and Cyto-C. At the same time, spinal AMPK activity was decreased. In order to explore the potential therapeutic options for arthritic pain, Xanthohumol (Xn) was intraperitoneally injected into mice for three consecutive days. Xn treatment was found to reduce the number of spontaneous flinches, in addition to elevating mechanical pain thresholds and increasing latency time. At the same time, Xn treatment in the spinal cord reduced NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation, increased the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response, and decreased mitochondrial ROS level. In addition, Xn was found to bind with AMPK via two electrovalent bonds and increased AMPK phosphorylation at Thr174. In summary, the findings indicate that Xn treatment activates AMPK, increases Nrf2-mediated antioxidant response, reduces Drp1-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction, suppresses neuroinflammation, and can serve to relieve arthritis pain.
Proximal interphalangeal joint dislocations and fracture-dislocations
Authors: Kolovich Gregory P. , Heifner John J.
Published: September 2023

Although proximal interphalangeal joint dislocations are generally straightforward to treat, fracture-dislocations are among the most difficult hand injuries to manage. Fracture patterns range from simple to treat palmar plate avulsion fractures to complex, unstable pilon fractures of the base of the middle phalanx, where achieving adequate reduction and fixation can be extremely difficult. Moreover, these fractures may present sub-acutely or chronically, which greatly adds to the complexity of the case. It is therefore no surprise that clinical results vary and are often difficult to predict. We will discuss the clinical presentations, the various dislocation and fracture-dislocation patterns, treatment options and the complications of these injuries.
Metacarpal fractures
Authors: Lambi Alex G. , Rowland Robert J. , Brady Nicholas W. , Rodriguez Diego E. , Mercer Deana M.
Published: September 2023

Metacarpal fractures are common and can be functionally disabling. The majority are managed non-operatively. When surgical intervention is indicated, various methods of fixation are available with the utility of each being based on injury pattern, patient function and surgeon preference. Early mobilization, especially in case of open reduction and internal fixation, is a critical component of treatment to prevent stiffness and restore function. When possible, a fixation construct that can withstand the applied forces of early postoperative motion is chosen. We provide an updated description for diagnosis, treatment options and operative fixation for metacarpal fractures.
A 20-year multicentre retrospective review of optic nerve sheath fenestration outcomes
Authors: El-Masri Shaddy , Wilson Matthew , Goh Jonathan , Sanfilippo Paul , Fok Anthony , Hardy Thomas , Chakrabarti Rahul , Van Der Walt Anneke
Published: September 2023

Background:

Optic nerve sheath fenestration (ONSF) longitudinal outcomes remain unclear and are vital in the assessment of vision failure in patients with raised intracranial pressure (ICP). Furthermore, limited observational data exists regarding its use in other causes of raised ICP.

Objective:

To determine the efficacy and safety of ONSF for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST), and other indications.

Method:

Multicentre study from a tertiary hospital and specialty eye referral hospital in Melbourne, Australia, from July 2000 to December 2020. A total of 116 eyes from 70 patients undergoing ONSF were retrospectively reviewed with patient demographics, surgery indications, visual acuity (VA), visual fields, fundus photos of optic discs, retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness, average thickness of optic discs on optical coherence tomography (OCT), and complications recorded. Parametric tests were used to compare the treatment groups pre- and post-operatively.

Results:

A total of 116 eyes from 70 patients underwent ONSF, which involved 92 eyes with IIH, 9 eyes with CVST, and 15 eyes with other aetiologies (‘Other’). Post ONSF, there was a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement or stabilisation in 84% of patients in all groups, with 50% achieving a BCVA of 6/6 or better at the final follow-up. RNFL, visual fields, and fundus grades all trended towards improvement, with most improvement noted by day 360. Common complications included transient diplopia ( n = 29, 25%) and worsening of visual function requiring further cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion procedures ( n = 20, 17%). Complications were most significant in the ‘Other’ group with 1/3 of eyes requiring further CSF diversion procedures.

Conclusion:

Our data demonstrates effectiveness in the use of ONSF in papilloedema with visual failure due to IIH or CVST and when other CSF diversion procedures or medical therapies have failed.
Who Has Access to Strings? Description of Public Schools With Orchestra Programs in Texas
Authors: Chappell Elizabeth W. , Nussbaum Kelsey
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine enrollment in string orchestra instruction across Texas. Three central research questions guided the investigation: (a) How well is orchestra represented in districts and schools across the state of Texas? (b) What are the characteristics (FRPL eligibility, locale, student race/ethnicity, size/UIL classification) of schools with orchestra programs in Texas? and (c) How do program enrollment and UIL participation vary among these characteristics? Using 2015–2016 enrollment data collected by the Texas Education Agency, we examined string enrollment within secondary traditional public schools in the state. Major findings were that more than two-thirds of schools offering strings were Title I eligible campuses and enrollment on urban, Title I eligible, and African American or Hispanic majority campuses had lower string enrollments than their suburban, non-Title I, and White majority counterparts.
Long-COVID-19 clinical and health outcomes: an umbrella review
Authors: Li Hu , Xia Jin , Bennett Dimitri , Roque Fatima , Bam Rujuta A. , Tavares Ana Bárbara Tadeu , Gokhale Mugdha , Ida Fidelia , Rhee Jinnie Jiwon , Soriano Gabarro Montse , Song Yiqing
Published: September 2023

Background:

A growing interest in long-term sequelae of COVID-19 has prompted several systematic literature reviews (SLRs) to evaluate long-COVID-19 effects. However, many of these reviews lack in-depth information on the timing, duration, and severity of these conditions.

Objectives:

Our aim was to synthesize both qualitative and quantitative evidence on prevalence and outcomes of long-term effect of COVID-19 through an umbrella review.

Design:

Umbrella review of relevant SLRs on long-COVID-19 in terms of prolonged symptoms and clinical conditions, and comprehensively synthesized the latest existing evidence.

Data Sources and Methods:

We systematically identified and appraised prior systematic reviews/meta-analyses using MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane database of systematic review from 2020 to 2021 following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidance. We summarized and categorized all relevant clinical symptoms and outcomes in adults with COVID-19 using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities System Organ Class (MedDRA SOC).

Results:

We identified 967 systematic reviews/meta-analyses; 36 were retained for final data extraction. The most prevalent SOC were social circumstances (40%), blood and lymphatic system disorders (39%), and metabolism and nutrition disorder (38%). The most frequently reported SOC outcomes within each MedDRA category were poor quality of life (59%), wheezing and dyspnea (19−49%), fatigue (30−64%), chest pain (16%), decreased or loss of appetite (14–17%), abdominal discomfort or digestive disorder (12−18%), arthralgia with or without myalgia (16–24%), paresthesia (27%) and hair loss (14–25%), and hearing loss or tinnitus (15%).

Conclusion:

This study confirmed a high prevalence of several long COVID-19 outcomes according to the MedDRA categories and indicated that the majority of evidence was rated as moderate to low.

Registration:

The review was registered at PROSPERO ( https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ ) (CRD42022303557).
Superior-subordinate Trust Affecting Quit Intentions: Mediation of Job Satisfaction and Affective Commitment
Authors: Pathardikar Avinash D. , Mishra Praveen Kumar , Sahu Sangeeta , Srivastava Abhinav
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of superior-subordinate trust on employee quit intention through the mediation of job satisfaction and affective commitment among the executives working in Indian cement industries. We have adopted social exchange theory as base theory, in which trust in superiors is treated as an exogenous variable and intention to leave as an endogenous variable, with affective commitment and job satisfaction considered as mediating variables. Sequential mediation was performed. The data was collected from 305 executives through questionnaires from eight top Indian cement-producing organisations. According to the findings, trust in superiors predicted job satisfaction significantly. Furthermore, affective commitment was influenced by both trust in superiors and job satisfaction. Further, all three predictors (i.e., trust in superiors, job satisfaction, and affective commitment) predicting intention to quit. Interestingly, we also observed that both job satisfaction and affective commitments serially mediate trust in superiors and the intention to quit. The results can be used to make executives happy and satisfied at work and make them more emotionally committed to their jobs, which will lead to a low rate of attrition.
Depletion of transit amplifying cells in the adult brain does not affect quiescent neural stem cell pool size
Authors: Zaki Zakiyyah Munirah Mohd , Kuroda Anri , Morimura Naoko , Hayashi Yoshitaka , Hitoshi Seiji
Published: September 2023

Neural stem cells (NSCs) are maintained in the adult mammalian brain throughout the animal’s lifespan. NSCs in the subependymal zone infrequently divide and generate transit amplifying cells, which are destined to become olfactory bulb neurons. When transit amplifying cells are depleted, they are replenished by the quiescent NSC pool. However, the cellular basis for this recovery process remains largely unknown. In this study, we traced NSCs and their progeny after transit amplifying cells were eliminated by intraventricular infusion of cytosine β-D-arabinofuranoside. We found that although the number of neurosphere-forming NSCs decreased shortly after the treatment, they were restored to normal levels 3 weeks after the cessation of treatment. More importantly, the depletion of transit amplifying cells did not induce a significant expansion of the NSC pool by symmetric divisions. Our data suggest that the size of the NSC pool is hardly affected by brain damage due to antimitotic drug treatment.
Human NCR3 gene variants rs2736191 and rs11575837 alter longitudinal risk for development of pediatric malaria episodes and severe malarial anemia
Authors: Onyango Clinton O. , Cheng Qiuying , Munde Elly O. , Raballah Evans , Anyona Samuel B. , McMahon Benjamin H. , Lambert Christophe G. , Onyango Patrick O. , Schneider Kristan A. , Perkins Douglas J. , Ouma Collins
Published: September 2023

Background

Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a leading cause of pediatric morbidity and mortality in holoendemic transmission areas. Severe malarial anemia [SMA, hemoglobin (Hb) < 5.0 g/dL in children] is the most common clinical manifestation of severe malaria in such regions. Although innate immune response genes are known to influence the development of SMA, the role of natural killer (NK) cells in malaria pathogenesis remains largely undefined. As such, we examined the impact of genetic variation in the gene encoding a primary NK cell receptor, natural cytotoxicity-triggering receptor 3 (NCR3), on the occurrence of malaria and SMA episodes over time.

Methods

Susceptibility to malaria, SMA, and all-cause mortality was determined in carriers of NCR3 genetic variants (i.e., rs2736191:C > G and rs11575837:C > T) and their haplotypes. The prospective observational study was conducted over a 36 mos. follow-up period in a cohort of children (n = 1,515, aged 1.9–40 mos.) residing in a holoendemic P. falciparum transmission region, Siaya, Kenya.

Results

Poisson regression modeling, controlling for anemia-promoting covariates, revealed a significantly increased risk of malaria in carriers of the homozygous mutant allele genotype (TT) for rs11575837 after multiple test correction [Incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 1.540, 95% CI = 1.114–2.129, P = 0.009]. Increased risk of SMA was observed for rs2736191 in children who inherited the CG genotype (IRR = 1.269, 95% CI = 1.009–1.597, P = 0.041) and in the additive model (presence of 1 or 2 copies) (IRR = 1.198, 95% CI = 1.030–1.393, P = 0.019), but was not significant after multiple test correction. Modeling of the haplotypes revealed that the CC haplotype had a significant additive effect for protection against SMA (i.e., reduced risk for development of SMA) after multiple test correction (IRR = 0.823, 95% CI = 0.711–0.952, P = 0.009). Although increased susceptibility to SMA was present in carriers of the GC haplotype (IRR = 1.276, 95% CI = 1.030–1.581, P = 0.026) with an additive effect (IRR = 1.182, 95% CI = 1.018–1.372, P = 0.029), the results did not remain significant after multiple test correction. None of the NCR3 genotypes or haplotypes were associated with all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

Variation in NCR3 alters susceptibility to malaria and SMA during the acquisition of naturally-acquired malarial immunity. These results highlight the importance of NK cells in the innate immune response to malaria.
Genome-wide analysis of the AP2/ERF gene family in Tritipyrum and the response of TtERF_B2-50 in salt-tolerance
Authors: Liu Xiaojuan , Zhou Guangyi , Chen Songshu , Jia Zhenzhen , Zhang Suqin , Ren Mingjian , He Fang
Published: September 2023

The AP2/ERF transcription factor is widely distributed across the plant kingdom and plays a crucial role in various abiotic stress responses in plants. Tritipyrum, an octoploid resulting from an intergeneric cross between Triticum aestivum (AABBDD) and Thinopyrum elongatum (EE), is a valuable source of germplasm for incorporating superior traits of Th. elongatum into T. aestivum. With the recent availability of whole -genome sequences for T. aestivum and Th. elongatum, we explored the organization and expression profiling of Tritipyrum AP2/ERF genes across the entire genome. Our investigation identified 543 Tritipyrum AP2/ERF genes, which evolutionary analysis categorized into four major groups (AP2, DREB, ERF, and RAV), whose members share a conserved motif composition. These 543 TtAP2/ERF genes were distributed throughout 28 chromosomes, with 132 duplications. Synteny analysis suggests that the AP2/ERF gene family may have a common ancestor. Transcriptome data and Real-Time PCR expression profiles revealed 43 TtAP2/ERF genes with high expression levels in response to various salt stressors and recovery regimens. Tel2E01T236300 (TtERF_B2-50) was particularly salt stress-sensitive and evolutionarily related to the salt-tolerant gene AtERF7 in A. thaliana. Pearson correlation analysis identified 689 genes positively correlated (R > 0.9) with TtERF_B2-50 expression, enriched in metabolic activities, cellular processes, stimulus response, and biological regulation. Real-time PCR showed that TtERF_B2-50 was highly expressed in roots, stems, and leaves under salt stress. These findings suggest that TtERF_B2-50 may be associated with salt stress tolerance and may serve as a valuable foreign gene for enhancing salt tolerance in wheat.