bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GLS1 is a Protective Factor in Patients with Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma and its Expression Does Not Correlate with ARID1A-mutated Tumors
Authors: Clemente Valentino , Hoshino Asumi , Shetty Mihir , Nelson Andrew , Erickson Britt K. , Baker Ruth , Rubin Nathan , Khalifa Mahmoud , Weroha S. John , Lou Emil , Bazzaro Martina
Published: July 2022

Targeting glutamine metabolism has emerged as a novel therapeutic strategy for several human cancers, including ovarian cancer. The primary target of this approach is the kidney isoform of glutaminase, glutaminase 1 (GLS1), a key enzyme in glutamine metabolism that is overexpressed in several human cancers. A first-in-class inhibitor of GLS1, called CB839 (Telaglenastat), has been investigated in several clinical trials, with promising results. The first clinical trial of CB839 in platinum-resistant patients with ovarian cancer is forthcoming. ARID1A-mutated ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a relatively indolent and chemoresistant ovarian cancer histotype. In OCCC-derived cells ARID1A simultaneously drives GLS1 expression and metabolism reprograming. In ARID1A-mutated OCCC-derived mouse models, loss of ARID1A corresponds to GLS1 upregulation and increases sensitivity to GLS1 inhibition. Thus, targeting of GLS1 with CB839 has been suggested as a targeted approach for patients with OCCC with tumors harboring ARID1A mutations. Here, we investigated whether GLS1 is differentially expressed between patients with OCCC whose tumors are ARID1A positive and patients whose tumors are ARID1A negative. In clinical specimens of OCCC, we found that GLS1 overexpression was not correlated with ARID1A loss. In addition, GLS1 overexpression was associated with better clinical outcomes. Our findings have implications for human trials using experimental therapeutics targeting GLS1.

Significance:

GLS1 differential expression in patients with OCCC with or without ARID1A mutations is significant because a clinical trial with a GLS1 inhibitor is forthcoming. Tumors without ARID1A have low levels of GLS1 and GLS1 expression is associated to better outcome. Thus, blockade of GLS1 could be counterproductive for patients with OCCC.
Low-Cost Feedback Program for Reducing the Door-to-Computed Tomography Time
Authors: Mitsuhashi Takashi , Tokugawa Joji , Mitsuhashi Hitoshi
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Early restoration of blood flow in stroke patients can be achieved by reducing the door-to-computed tomography (DTC) time. Previous research has proposed several methods to reduce the DTC time, but the implementation costs limit its transferability. This study aimed to propose a novel, simple, and low-cost method for reducing the DTC time by providing feedback on each patient’s DTC time to a small group of medical workers and physicians. Methods: A field experiment was conducted for 233 days, and the DTC time of 249 patients with stroke symptoms who were transported via ambulance to a medium-sized university hospital in Japan within 24 h after stroke onset was obtained. The first and second feedback reports on the 59th day and 154th day, respectively, were provided at the beginning of the field experiment. Using the data collected during the first 58 days as baseline data, the baseline data were compared with the post-intervention data. As part of the intervention, feedback on the DTC time for each patient was provided to six medical workers and physicians during regular meetings. The primary outcome was a continuous measure of DTC time (in min). The feedback effect hypothesis was formulated prior to data collection. Results: In a sample of 68 patients at baseline, the mean DTC time was 18.16 min with a standard deviation of 7.38 min. As a result of the two feedback reports, in the sample with outliers, the mean and standard deviation decreased to 15.64 min and 5.97 min, respectively. The difference in means was 2.51 min (p = 0.021 in t tests). Results of the test of the equality of the standard deviations suggested that the two standard deviations were not equal (p = 0.065). Conclusions: The low-cost interventions successfully reduced both the mean DTC time and variation, suggesting an improvement in the quality and consistency of medical services. The result of our fine-grained analysis with a field-experiment design supports the role of feedback in achieving early treatment as suggested in the Target: Stroke initiative.
Myeloid Sarcoma of the Breast as Blast Phase of JAK2-Mutated (Val617Phe Exon 14p) Essential Thrombocythemia: A Case Report and a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Pace Mirella , Guadagno Elia , Russo Daniela , Gencarelli Annarita , Carlea Annunziata , Di Spiezio Attilio , Bertuzzi Clara , Mascolo Massimo , Grimaldi Francesco , Insabato Luigi
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a mass-forming proliferation of myeloid blasts. Frequently, it arises as blast phase of pre-existing myeloproliferative, myelodysplastic disorders or consequent to bone marrow transplant. Its molecular characterization has become an increasingly important requirement for the diagnostic definition of this solid leukemia. Case Presentation: Our case report concerns an MS arising in the breast of a woman with a previous diagnosis of JAK2-mutated essential thrombocythemia (Val617Phe exon 14p) mimicking, on histology, a lobular carcinoma of the breast. The immunohistochemical study of the neoplasm provided the key that solved the diagnostic doubt and the immunohistochemical evaluation of NPM protein expression, which turn out to be negative, provided a clear indication on the molecular status and prognosis of the disease. A year later, the neoplasm relapsed in the pelvic area. Discussion: This diagnostic challenge led us to review the literature of the past 10 years concerning MS of the breast. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first case of MS of the breast occurring in a patient with a history of essential thrombocythemia and recurred in the pelvic region.
Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome Developing Three Days following Administration of mRNA-1273 Booster Vaccine: Case Report
Authors: Alhabshan Rashed , Scales David
Published: July 2022

Little is known about the potential ocular adverse events following mRNA-1273 vaccine. We aimed to report a case of multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (MEWDS) developing 3 days following the administration of mRNA-1273 vaccine booster. A 71-year-old white myopic female presented with complaints of seeing “pulsating light” and scotoma with her left eye that started about 3 days following mRNA-1273 vaccine booster administration. The patient was found to have multiple scattered white-yellow outer retinal lesions on dilated fundus exam of the left eye. Visual symptoms and exam findings continued to improve without any intervention confirming a short-lived and self-limiting disease course. Clinical presentation was consistent with a clinical diagnosis of MEWDS. Ophthalmologists need to take detailed vaccination history in patients presenting with MEWDS.
Awareness of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV Vaccination amongst the General Population in Germany: Lack of Awareness and Need for Action
Authors: Sharma Shachi Jenny , Schartinger Volker H. , Wuerdemann Nora , Langer Christine , Möllenhoff Kathrin , Collin Lisa , Sutton Liam , Riedl David , Kreuter Alexander , Lechner Matt , Wieland Ulrike , Klussmann Jens Peter
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPV) types 16 and 18 contribute to more than 73% cases of all HPV-related cancers and commonly affect the anogenital and head and neck region, with rapidly rising incidence rates of HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC). HPV vaccination has the potential to decrease the burden of HPV-related disease, but vaccination rates remain low in many countries. We investigated the level of awareness of HPV, and HPV-OPSCC in particular, in a representative sample of the German population. Materials and Methods: As part of an online, population-based survey, an electronic questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of 1,095 adult individuals with a specific emphasis on awareness of HPV, transmission, and indicator symptoms of oropharyngeal cancer. Statistical analysis of levels of awareness and relation of these to age, gender, and socioeconomic background were conducted using the IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25.0. Results: 699/1,095 (63.8%) subjects had never heard of HPV. Of the subjects with awareness for HPV, 210 knew that HPV could be transmitted during sex (58.3%) and 138 recognized HPV as a risk factor for OPSCC (14.2%), unrelated to gender (p = 0.357), educational status (p = 0.581), or family status (p = 0.719). 416 subjects knew that a preventive vaccine against HPV existed (44.9%). Women were significantly more aware of HPV (34.2% vs. 22.8%, p < 0.001) and the vaccination (56.4% vs. 32.7%, p < 0.001) as were men. Younger individuals (age group 25–34) were significantly more aware of HPV (p < 0.001), likely as they were offered and/or had received the HPV vaccination. There was no regional variation of HPV awareness within the German state (p = 0.051). Conclusion: Here we demonstrate a significant lack of awareness of HPV and HPV vaccination in a representative sample of the German population. Levels of awareness of the link of HPV and oropharyngeal cancer are particularly low, bearing in mind that this cancer is commonly affecting men and incidence rates are rapidly rising in many European countries and the USA. Awareness programs and further education are required to tackle the low awareness rates and increase the uptake of the vaccination program not only in Germany, but also worldwide.
A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study to Evaluate the Immediate Effect of Targeted Exercise Therapy on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Cancer Survivors: The FatiGO Study
Authors: Siebert Stefanie , Kollikowski Anne , Minto Carrie-Ann , Byrtus Franziska , Lesnik Jennifer , Weis Joachim , Horneber Markus , Bloch Wilhelm , Baumann Freerk Theeagnus , Salchow Jannike
Published: July 2022

Objectives: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a clinically relevant side effect that impairs cancer survivors after treatment cessation. Exercise interventions have proven effective; however, specific exercise modalities remain untested. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of daily fatigue screenings and to show the impact of various exercise interventions on CRF. Methods: The randomized controlled pilot study ran for 4 weeks with 3 training sessions per week, in 5 groups: endurance versus strength (moderate- and vigorous-intensity levels for each) compared to a non-active control group. The primary outcome was feasibility; more specifically, it was evaluated whether the documentation with the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) on a daily basis and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) on a weekly basis are usable assessments to generate information about CRF. Results: Over the course of the 4-week intervention, 8.3% of the participants (n = 3) dropped out. Thirty-three of the initial 36 participants completed the exercise sessions with an adherence of 95%. Measurements of daily fatigue were collected three times per day, 85% of which were completely filled out. In regard to weekly fatigue, all but one of the questionnaires were submitted (99.5%). Neither during the intervention nor during the tests did any serious adverse events occur within the FatiGO study; hence, the exercise intervention is considered to be feasible for participants. Conclusions: This pilot study showed the feasibility of close-meshed daily fatigue screening. Preliminary data indicate that cancer survivors are able to train in high-intensity ranges with tendencies toward decreased fatigue. Therefore, practicability of the study design is shown. Further results are expected within the prospective multicenter trial.
A Case with Hypotrichosis-Lymphedema-Telangiectasia Syndrome with Hair Shaft Fragility
Authors: Atış Güldehan , Şam Sarı Ayşenur , Soylu Esra , Akgün Doğan Özlem
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Hypotrichosis-lymphedema-telangiectasia syndrome (HLTS) is a disease characterized by the failure of angiogenesis, vascularization, and hair formation caused by a mutation in the SOX18 gene. Case Presentation: We report a 15-year-old female patient presented with sparse hairs on her scalp and eyebrows and the absence of eyelashes and body hair since birth. We detected premature weathering due to abnormality of the hair shaft. Discussion/Conclusion: Detection of trichophytosis and split hair in light microscopy in a patient with sparse hair, telangiectasia, and lymphedema may help diagnose HLTS.
Exposure to either Bisphenol A or S Represents a Risk for Crucial Behaviors for Pup Survival, Such as Spontaneous Maternal Behavior in Mice
Authors: Bonaldo Brigitta , Gioiosa Laura , Panzica GianCarlo , Marraudino Marilena
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Maternal behavior depends on a multitude of factors, including environmental ones, such as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), which are increasingly attracting attention. Bisphenol A (BPA), an EDC present in plastic, is known to exert negative effects on maternal behavior. Bisphenol S (BPS), a BPA substitute, seems to share some endocrine disrupting properties. In this study, we focused on the analysis of the effects of low-dose (i.e., 4 µg/kg body weight/day, EFSA TDI for BPA) BPA or BPS exposure throughout pregnancy and lactation in mice. Methods: We administered adult C57BL/6 J females orally BPA, BPS, or vehicle from mating to offspring weaning. We assessed the number of pups at birth, the sex ratio, and the percentage of dead pups in each litter, and during the first postnatal week, we observed spontaneous maternal behavior. At the weaning of the pups, we sacrificed the dams and analyzed the oxytocin system, known to be involved in the control of maternal care, in the hypothalamic magnocellular nuclei. Results: At birth, pups from BPA-treated dams tended to have a lower male-to-female ratio compared to controls, while the opposite was observed among BPS-treated dams’ litters. During the first postnatal week, offspring mortality impacted differentially in the BPA and BPS litters, with more female dead pups among the BPA litters, while more male dead pups in the BPS litters, sharpening the difference in the sex ratio. BPA- and BPS-treated dams spent significantly less time in pup-related behaviors than controls. Oxytocin immunoreactivity in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei was increased only in the BPA-treated dams. Discussion/Conclusions: Alterations in maternal care, along with the treatment itself, may affect, later in life, the offspring’s physiology and behavior. Exposure to BPs during sensitive developmental periods represents a risk for both dams and offspring, even at low environmentally relevant doses, through the functional alteration of neural circuits controlling fundamental behaviors for pup survival, such as maternal behaviors.
Socioeconomic Deprivation: An Important, Largely Unrecognized Risk Factor in Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Kimenai Dorien M. , Pirondini Leah , Gregson John , Prieto David , Pocock Stuart J. , Perel Pablo , Hamilton Tilly , Welsh Paul , Campbell Archie , Porteous David J. , Hayward Caroline , Sattar Naveed , Mills Nicholas L. , Shah Anoop S.V.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Socioeconomic deprivation is associated with higher cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Whether deprivation status should be incorporated in more cardiovascular risk estimation scores remains unclear. This study evaluates how socioeconomic deprivation status affects the performance of 3 primary prevention cardiovascular risk scores.

Methods:

The Generation Scotland Scottish Family Health Study was used to evaluate the performance of 3 cardiovascular risk scores with (ASSIGN [Assessing cardiovascular risk using SIGN (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network) guidelines to ASSIGN preventive treatment]) and without (SCORE2 [Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation 2 algorithm], Pooled Cohort Equations) socioeconomic deprivation as a covariate in the risk prediction model. Deprivation was defined by Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation score. The predicted 10-year risk was evaluated against the observed event rate for the cardiovascular outcome of each risk score. The comparison was made across 3 groups defined by the deprivation index score consisting of group 1 defined as most deprived, group 3 defined as least deprived, and group 2, which consisted of individuals in the middle deprivation categories.

Results:

The study population consisted of 15 506 individuals (60.0% female, median age of 51). Across the population, 1808 (12%) individuals were assigned to group 1 (most deprived), 8119 (52%) to group 2, and 4708 (30%) to group 3 (least deprived), and 871 (6%) individuals had a missing deprivation score. Risk scores based on models that did not include deprivation status significantly under predicted risk in the most deprived (6.43% observed versus 4.63% predicted for SCORE2 [
P
=0.001] and 6.69% observed versus 4.66% predicted for Pooled Cohort Equations [
P
<0.001]). Both risk scores also significantly overpredicted the risk in the least deprived group (3.97% observed versus 4.72% predicted for SCORE2 [
P
=0.007] and 4.22% observed versus 4.85% predicted for Pooled Cohort Equations [
P
=0.028]). In contrast, no significant difference was demonstrated in the observed versus predicted risk when using the ASSIGN risk score, which included socioeconomic deprivation status in the risk model.

Conclusions:

Socioeconomic status is a largely unrecognized risk factor in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Risk scores that exclude socioeconomic deprivation as a covariate under- and overestimate the risk in the most and least deprived individuals, respectively. This study highlights the importance of incorporating socioeconomic deprivation status in risk estimation systems to ultimately reduce inequalities in health care provision for cardiovascular disease.
Association of Extreme Heat and Cardiovascular Mortality in the United States: A County-Level Longitudinal Analysis From 2008 to 2017
Authors: Khatana Sameed Ahmed M. , Werner Rachel M. , Groeneveld Peter W.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Extreme-heat events are increasing as a result of climate change. Prior studies, typically limited to urban settings, suggest an association between extreme heat and cardiovascular mortality. However, the extent of the burden of cardiovascular deaths associated with extreme heat across the United States and in different age, sex, or race and ethnicity subgroups is unclear.

Methods:

County-level daily maximum heat index levels for all counties in the contiguous United States in summer months (May–September) and monthly cardiovascular mortality rates for adults ≥20 years of age were obtained. For each county, an extreme-heat day was identified if the maximum heat index was ≥90 °F (32.2 °C) and in the 99th percentile of the maximum heat index in the baseline period (1979–2007) for that day. Spatial empirical Bayes smoothed monthly cardiovascular mortality rates from 2008 to 2017 were the primary outcome. A Poisson fixed-effects regression model was estimated with the monthly number of extreme-heat days as the independent variable of interest. The model included time-fixed effects and time-varying environmental, economic, demographic, and health care–related variables.

Results:

Across 3108 counties, from 2008 to 2017, each additional extreme-heat day was associated with a 0.12% (95% CI, 0.04%–0.21%;
P
=0.004) higher monthly cardiovascular mortality rate. Extreme heat was associated with an estimated 5958 (95% CI, 1847–10 069) additional deaths resulting from cardiovascular disease over the study period. In subgroup analyses, extreme heat was associated with a greater relative increase in mortality rates among men compared with women (0.20% [95% CI, 0.07%–0.33%]) and non-Hispanic Black compared with non-Hispanic White adults (0.19% [95% CI, 0.01%–0.37%]). There was a greater absolute increase among elderly adults compared with nonelderly adults (16.6 [95% CI, 14.6–31.8] additional deaths per 10 million individuals per month).

Conclusions:

Extreme-heat days were associated with higher adult cardiovascular mortality rates in the contiguous United States between 2008 and 2017. This association was heterogeneous among age, sex, race, and ethnicity subgroups. As extreme-heat events increase, the burden of cardiovascular mortality may continue to increase, and the disparities between demographic subgroups may widen.
Cost Comparison: Evaluating Transfemoral and Transradial Access for Diagnostic Cerebral Angiography
Authors: Dodd William S. , Small Coulter N. , Goutnik Michael , Laurent Dimitri , Crossman James , Motwani Kartik , Lucke‐Wold Brandon , Polifka Adam J. , Koch Matthew , Brzezicki Grzegorz , Hoh Brian L. , Chalouhi Nohra
Published: July 2022

Background

Modern medicine necessitates the delivery of increasingly complex health care while minimizing cost. Transradial access (TRA) for neuroendovascular procedures is becoming more common as accumulating data demonstrate fewer complications, improved patient satisfaction, and high rates of treatment success compared with the transfemoral access (TFA) approach; however, disparities in cost between these approaches remain unclear. We compared supply and equipment costs between TRA and TFA for diagnostic cerebral angiography and evaluate the specific items that account for these differences.

Methods

We reviewed all adult patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiography from July 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019. Data related to patient demographics, vascular access site, catheters used, cost of catheters, arterial access sheath use, cost of sheaths, closure devices used, and cost of closure devices were collected.

Results

The transradial approach resulted in higher price of radial access sheath; however, the overall cost of closure devices was much lower in TRA group than in the TFA cohort. There was no significant difference in the cost of catheters. Overall, the total supply costs for TRA cerebral angiography were significantly lower than those of TFA cerebral angiography. The relative materials cost difference of using TRA was 20.9%.

Conclusion

This study is the first itemized materials cost analysis of TRA versus TFA cerebral angiography. TRA necessitates the use of a more expensive access sheath device; however, this cost is offset by the increased cost of devices used for femoral arteriotomy closure. Overall, the supply and equipment costs were significantly lower for TRA than TFA.
3. Wound Aetiologies, Patient Characteristics, and Healthcare Settings Amenable to Maggot Therapy
Authors: Sherman Ronald A. , Stadler Frank
Published: July 2022

It is important for healthcare practitioners to understand when to use maggot therapy. This chapter explains the general factors that determine the choice of wound treatment and how they apply to maggot therapy: i) the wound characteristics, ii) the patient characteristics, iii) the environment, iv) the available resources, and v) the specific characteristics of each available treatment modality. Beyond the regular healthcare setting, maggot therapy can make a significant contribution to the treatment of people with wounds in compromised healthcare settings such as in times of disaster and armed conflict, in underserved populations, or in palliative care.
4. Indications, Contraindications, Interactions, and Side-effects of Maggot Therapy
Authors: Sherman Ronald A.
Published: July 2022

Maggot therapy is not regulated in most countries, but in those countries in which it is regulated, indications authorised by regulating bodies are the law of the land. Irrespective of particular jurisdictional limitations, this chapter describes when maggot therapy can be used, when it can’t be used, potential adverse events, and when treatment can proceed with caution. The chapter also examines how medicinal maggots interact with concomitant treatments such as systemic antibiotics, anaesthetics and narcotics, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Evidence and expert advice suggest that maggot therapy is a safe and widely applicable wound care modality with few side-effects, most of which can be avoided or successfully managed.
6. Clinical Integration of Maggot Therapy
Authors: Bullen Benjamin L. , Sherman Ronald A. , Chadwick Paul J. , Stadler Frank
Published: July 2022

The integration of maggot therapy into clinical practice is not a trivial undertaking as it has to overcome social, regulatory, clinical, organisational, financial, and supply-chain-technical barriers. For example, rejection of the therapy by patients due to the ‘Yuk’ factor is frequently raised as a reason why maggot therapy will not be feasible. Likewise, logistics problems often hamper reliable supply. This chapter identifies these barriers and shows that in some instances they may be more assumed than real, as is the case with the ‘Yuk’ factor, and that there are tangible solutions for the implementation of maggot therapy programmes, such as supply-chain innovations or socially-minded business models that prioritise patients over profits. In addition, there is a growing body of information and training resources available from medicinal maggot producers, practitioner organisations, and biotherapy advocates that supports the establishment of maggot therapy programmes.
11. Bioprospecting and Testing of New Fly Species for Maggot Therapy
Authors: Thyssen Patricia Jacqueline , Masiero Franciéle Souza , Stadler Frank
Published: July 2022

Lucilia sericata, the green bottle blowfly, has a long history of clinical use and an excellent safety record which makes it safe for therapeutic clinical use. In regions where it is naturally absent, maggot therapy cannot be offered to patients with chronic wounds unless an alternative local species is found. This chapter explains how new species are identified and tested for their therapeutic efficacy and clinical safety. The process involves the bioprospecting for candidate fly species, pre-clinical in vitro and animal studies to make sure they are therapeutically active and safe, and clinical trials of maggot therapy with human patients.
12. Laboratory and Insectary Infrastructure and Equipment
Authors: Stadler Frank
Published: July 2022

Medicinal maggot production laboratory infrastructure requirements depend on pre-existing infrastructure, the current research and/or production activities, and on the production objectives—whether medicinal maggots are to be produced for research, therapy, or a combination of both. This chapter provides a typology of production facilities and describes the physical insectary and laboratory infrastructure and equipment necessary to maintain medicinal fly colonies and prepare medicinal maggots for use in human and veterinary medicine. Importantly, reliable production of safe and high-quality medicinal maggots does not necessarily require sophisticated and expensive laboratories and equipment.
14. Medicinal Maggot Production
Authors: Stadler Frank , Takáč Peter
Published: July 2022

This chapter discusses the requirements for adult fly rearing, high-volume egg production, larval rearing and pupariation, and it explains the production of disinfected medicinal maggots for maggot therapy, the quality control procedures that are required to ensure safe and efficacious maggot therapy, and supply chain management considerations arising from the perishability of medicinal maggots. The chapter draws on a broad range of sources including the literature on maggot therapy, forensic entomology, and general entomology. For compromised healthcare settings with limited resources, point-of-care production solutions are discussed that do not rely on sophisticated laboratory and logistics infrastructure.
16. Packaging Technology
Authors: Stadler Frank
Published: July 2022

This chapter is concerned with the packaging of medicinal maggots for sale and transport. After fly eggs have been disinfected, incubated, and the microbial safety of eggs and maggots has been confirmed, medicinal maggots are counted and transferred to primary packaging for safe transit to the point of care. This primary packaging may then be further packaged within a cardboard box that forms the secondary packaging along with package inserts that specify vital product and use information. In addition, when medicinal maggots are transported over greater distances or under unfavourable climatic conditions, insulated transport packaging is essential.
A Primer on Phased Array Radar Technology for the Atmospheric Sciences
Authors: Palmer Robert , Bodine David , Kollias Pavlos , Schvartzman David , Zrnić Dusan , Kirstetter Pierre , Zhang Guifu , Yu Tian-You , Kumjian Matthew , Cheong Boonleng , Collis Scott , Frasier Stephen , Fulton Caleb , Hondl Kurt , Kurdzo James , Ushio Tomoo , Rowe Angela , Salazar-Cerrenˉo Jorge , Torres Sebastián , Weber Mark , Yeary Mark
Published: July 2022

The scientific community has expressed interest in the potential of phased array radars (PARs) to observe the atmosphere with finer spatial and temporal scales. Although convergence has occurred between the meteorological and engineering communities, the need exists to increase access of PAR to meteorologists. Here, we facilitate these interdisciplinary efforts in the field of ground-based PARs for atmospheric studies. We cover high-level technical concepts and terminology for PARs as applied to studies of the atmosphere. A historical perspective is provided as context along with an overview of PAR system architectures, technical challenges, and opportunities. Envisioned scan strategies are summarized because they are distinct from traditional mechanically scanned radars and are the most advantageous for high-resolution studies of the atmosphere. Open access to PAR data is emphasized as a mechanism to educate the future generation of atmospheric scientists. Finally, a vision for the future of operational networks, research facilities, and expansion into complementary radar wavelengths is provided.
Mixing driven by critical reflection of near-inertial waves over the Texas-Louisiana shelf
Authors: Qu Lixin , Thomas Leif N. , Hetland Robert D. , Kobashi Daĳiro
Published: July 2022

Studies of internal wave-driven mixing in the coastal ocean have been mainly focused on internal tides, while wind-driven near-inertial waves (NIWs) have received less attention in this regard. This study demonstrates a scenario of NIW-driven mixing over the Texas-Louisiana shelf. Supported by a high-resolution simulation over the shelf, the NIWs driven by land-sea breeze radiate downward at a sharp front and enhance the mixing in the bottom boundary layer where the NIWs are focused due to slantwise critical reflection. The criterion for slantwise critical reflection of NIWs is (where ω is the wave frequency, Sbot is the bottom slope, and Sp is the isopycnal slope) under the assumption that the mean flow is in a thermal wind balance and only varies in the slope-normal direction. The mechanism driving the enhanced mixing is explored in an idealized simulation. During slantwise critical reflection, NIWs are amplified with enhanced shear and periodically destratify a bottom boundary layer via differential buoyancy advection, leading to periodically enhanced mixing. Turbulent transport of tracers is also enhanced during slantwise critical reflection of NIWs, which has implications for bottom hypoxia over the Texas-Louisiana shelf.
The State of the LGBTQ+ Community in Surgery
Authors: Pascarella Luigi
Published: July 2022

The LGBTQ+ community is a diverse community that faces unique needs and multidimensional form of discrimination. Cultural awareness and awareness of intersectionality of experiences are essential in creating an equitable environment for health care professionals and patients.
“I’m Actually a Female Empowerer”: Student Perspectives on a Critical Pedagogical Approach to Re/Engage At-Risk Females in School
Authors: MacMaoilir Eóin , McGillicuddy Deirdre
Published: July 2022

Internationally, there is increasing concern regarding the disengagement of marginalized students, particularly girls, from the formal education system, particularly since Covid-19. Students experiencing oppression/marginalization within urban education systems are considered at-risk from poor attendance, early school leaving, underperformance, low self-confidence, and social exclusion. In considering Paolo Freire’s conceptualization of education as “the practice of freedom,” this paper presents findings from an intervention, the Female Empowerment Group, a critical pedagogical approach to re/engaging at-risk female students in school. The Female Empowerment Group created a space for at-risk female students to explore complex contemporary issues shaping the intersectionality of their identities as marginalized, feminized, and politicized citizens in/outside school. Drawing on findings from a mixed methods design (quantitative surveys ( n = 21 girls), qualitative interviews ( n = 9 students, 7 teachers, 2 parents), Ketso ( n = 9 students), this study presents the power of critical pedagogy for empowering and re/engaging at-risk students in school. Findings illustrate the powerful impact of a critical pedagogical approach for empowering students, enhancing self-confidence, motivation, empathy, and engagement with issues impacting their lives. Reported outcomes included more positive relationships with adults/peers, increased re/engagement in class and enhanced sense of belonging in school.
Russia-Ukraine War and WTO’s National Security Exception
Authors: Ranjan Prabhash
Published: July 2022

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is one of the most flagrant violations of international law in recent times. The Russian action has received global condemnation with various countries imposing sanctions on Russia. This article argues that concerning imposing trade sanctions against Russia, countries can rely on the national security exception in the World Trade Organization (WTO). The relevant legal provision in this regard is Article XXI of the General Agreements on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The article undertakes a doctrinal analysis of GATT’s Article XXI. This analysis is conducted in the light of two WTO disputes—the Russia: Transit case and the Saudi Arabia: Intellectual Property case—that have interpreted the national security exception. The article argues that while the national security exception given in GATT’s Article XXI is not self-judging, countries will enjoy deference in determining their essential security interests. The article then applies this doctrinal understanding to the current Russia–Ukraine war. The current situation will fall under Article XXI, and countries can impose trade-restricting measures against Russia (such as suspension of the most-favoured-nation treatment) following Article XXI of GATT.

JEL Codes: F13, F19, F52, F51
Financial capabilities and financial behavior of overseas Filipino workers in South Korea
Authors: Kim Minjung , Koo Hye-Gyoung , Jang Juyoung
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to identify factors affecting the financial behavior of overseas Filipino workers. Responses from a survey of 116 Filipino workers in Korea were analyzed using descriptive statistics and hierarchical regression. The results revealed that some Filipino workers showed sound financial behavior only for simple financial activities; many were not equipped with complex financial management skills. Migrant workers with high financial self-efficacy in the Philippines were likely to have more positive financial behavior. However, this was not significantly associated with financial literacy or attendance in financial education programs. Implications for the development of financial education for migrant workers are discussed.
Gender inequality in applying research project and funding
Authors: Liao Chien Hsiang , Lian Jiunn-Woei
Published: July 2022

Gender equality in scientific research has gradually attracted attention from many countries. However, the possible interaction effect of gender on research funding has not been fully disclosed. This study conducts an empirical study to examine the possible influences of gender on research funding and its interaction effect with applicants’ social influences, including their external cumulative advantages (Matthew effect) and internal cognition (halo effect). In total, 1465 research projects from 2015 to 2021 are analysed to examine the proposed hypotheses. The results reveal that there is no gender inequality in the association between the Matthew effect and future research funding. However, the halo effect is easily affected by gender. For male scientists, higher institutional reputation and past research performance lead to higher future research funding. However, female scientists have no such benefits. According to the findings, this study suggests that female scientists should give priority to accumulating their own external resource advantages and participate in academic activities more frequently to activate women’s participation in scientific research and academia.
Left ventricular venting during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; the effects on cardiac performance in a porcine model of critical post-cardiotomy failure
Authors: Solholm Atle , Salminen Pirjo-Riitta , Stangeland Lodve , Dahle Geir Olav , Mongstad Arve , Svenheim Bård , Zhang Liqun , Haaverstad Rune , Grong Ketil
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Left ventricular distension is a major concern with postcardiotomy veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) supporting a critical heart failure after cardiac surgery. This porcine study evaluates the effects of left ventricular venting on cardiac function during ECMO-supported circulation and after weaning from ECMO.

Methods

Twenty anaesthetised open-chest pigs were put on cardiopulmonary bypass with aortic cross-clamping and suboptimal cardioplegic arrest for 40 min. After declamping and defibrillation, the animals were supported by VA-ECMO for 180 min either with or without additional left ventricular venting. Continuous haemodynamic evaluations were performed at baseline and at cardiac arrest, during VA-ECMO and for 120 min after weaning from circulatory support. Left ventricular perfusion and function were evaluated with microspheres, pressure-volume loops and epicardial echocardiography at baseline and after 1 and 2 h with unsupported circulation.

Results

In vented animals both mean aortic and left ventricular peak systolic pressure increased at the end of the ECMO-supported period compared to those not vented and remained increased also after weaning. Both at 60 min and 120 min after weaning from circulatory support, left ventricular stroke work and pressure-volume area were increased in vented compared to not vented animals. At 120 min left ventricular stroke volume was increased in vented compared to not vented animals, myocardial perfusion did not differ. The left ventricular mechanical efficiency, defined as the ratio between pressure volume area and myocardial perfusion, was increased (53.2 ± 5 vs 36.2 ± 2.1 J/mL/g, p = 0.011) in vented- compared to not vented hearts.

Conclusion

This experimental study demonstrate that left ventricular venting during post-cardiotomy veno-arterial ECMO for 3 h attenuates deterioration of left ventricular function and haemodynamics early after weaning from circulatory support.
A Latent Transition Analysis of Internet Addiction in Early Adolescents and Its Contributing Factors
Authors: Hu Xiaojin , Chen Yuling , Wang Zhihang , Huebner E. Scott , Ling Yu
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the present study was to identify the patterns of Internet addiction in early adolescents and their associated protective factors in order to prevent and/or ameliorate internet addiction as early as possible. A 2-year longitudinal study was conducted among 621 Chinese early adolescents. Latent class and latent transition analyses were used to identify classes of the development of internet addiction. Three latent classes were identified, including a “Non-Internet Addiction Group” (43%), “Low Internet Addiction Group” (43%) and “High Internet Addiction Group” (14%). A Latent Transition Analysis of Adolescents in the Non-Internet Addiction Group and Low Internet Addiction Group demonstrated relative stability in class membership, whereas adolescents in the High Internet Addiction Group tended to change to the Low Internet Addiction Group. Results of multinomial logistic regression and latent transition analyses revealed that low impulsivity, high family care, and high student engagement in school all contributed to membership in the latent classes of internet use and transitions. Implications of these results for prevention and intervention and for future research are discussed.
#100daysofpractice: Selection and adaptation of self-regulated learning strategies in an online music performance challenge
Authors: dos Santos Silva Camilla , Marinho Helena , Fiorini Carlos
Published: July 2022

This reflective case study sought to identify self-regulation processes associated with daily music practice, focusing on the researcher-performer perspective. The first author of this article is also the study participant: a classical guitarist and graduate student at a South-American University who took part in the Instagram challenge #100daysofpractice, which involves recording and posting a video of one’s daily musical practice for 100 uninterrupted days. Using analytic autoethnography as a self-reflective descriptive tool, the research explored self-regulated learning strategies and the impact of social media on music practice. By highlighting the processes and strategies employed during the challenge according to the six psychological dimensions of Self-Regulated Learning, the results suggest that these processes and strategies can be associated with more than one dimension.
Influence of Transit Station Proximity on Demographic Change Including Displacement and Gentrification with Implications for Transit and Land Use Planning After the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nelson Arthur C. , Hibberd Robert
Published: July 2022

A key purpose of fixed-route transit systems is to attract people and households to live near transit stations. There is very little research into the extent to which this occurs, however. This article is the first to apply a consistent methodology using census data to evaluate the extent to which people and households are attracted to transit stations. Using census American Community Survey 5-year sample data applied to 30 metropolitan areas for 2013 and 2019—a period between the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic—we found that nearly all people and households were attracted to transit stations located within the first 100 m with very little occurring in the rest of the “½-mi circle” (about 800 m). With the exception of streetcar systems that serve mostly downtowns, we found that most of the change in residents in the first 100 m involved minority persons, which is somewhat inconsistent with displacement and gentrification expectations. Also, with the exception of streetcar systems, large to very large shares of all new households with children were attracted to the first 100 m from transit stations, which was again somewhat inconsistent with expectations. We use analysis to suggest implications for the post COVID-19 pandemic period. Although major cities have lost population as households have moved mostly into nearby suburbs, recent trends combined with data from preference surveys suggest that future demand for transit station proximity may be higher than before the pandemic. We conclude with long-term implications for transit and land use planning.
Framing climate change in local context: Newspaper coverage of climate change in three mountain towns in the intermountain west compared to national coverage
Authors: Spradlin Tyler J. , Givens Jennifer E.
Published: July 2022

Research examines how journalists cover and frame the issue of climate change in mainly nationally circulated newspapers. This study compares and contrasts the framing of climate change between two nationally circulated newspapers, the New York Times and the Washington Post, and three intermountain west, mountain town, community newspapers, Jackson Hole News & Guide in Jackson Hole, WY, Summit Daily in Summit County, CO, and Park Record in Park City, UT. This research compares national versus community coverage, coverage over time for the years 2011 and 2016, and coverage between the three communities, using five commonly used frames, responsibility, human interest, conflict, morality and economic consequences. Results indicate there are statistically significant differences when comparing national to community newspaper coverage as well as between the three community papers, indicating the importance of local context in media coverage of climate change and in frame analysis more generally. Climate change is a partisan issue, but community newspapers may be less partisan, so analyzing newspaper coverage at various scales adds to our understanding of how different contexts shape media coverage, which in turn may shape views on climate change.
Contextual factors and business strategy choice: The case of us hospitals
Authors: Ghiasi Akbar , Weech-Maldonado Robert , Zengul Ferhat , Puro Neeraj
Published: July 2022

US hospitals are struggling with how to compete and remain viable in an increasingly turbulent and competitive environment. Using Porter’s generic strategies and resource dependence theory, this study examined the relationship between environmental factors and business strategy choice among U.S. hospitals. The study used longitudinal data from 2006 to 2016 of US urban, general acute care hospitals from the American Hospital Association Annual Survey, Medicare cost reports, and Area Health Resource File. Multinomial regression was used to analyze the data. and Discussion: Our findings showed four types of hospital strategy: cost-leadership, differentiation, hybrid, and stuck-in-the-middle. A greater number of physicians (county-level) increases the likelihood of pursuing differentiation and hybrid strategy. On the other hand, a higher older adult population (65 years+) increases the likelihood of pursuing a cost-leadership strategy. Similarly, lower competition and higher Medicare Advantage penetration increases the likelihood of pursuing cost-leadership over hybrid strategy. An increase in the unemployment rate decreases the likelihood of pursuing differentiation and cost-leadership strategies versus the hybrid strategy. Finally, hospitals pursuing a differentiation strategy tended to be larger, teaching, and not-for-profit. The results showed the importance of environmental and organizational factors in predicting the strategy choice of hospitals.
Determination of bend angle and shape imperfection effect on collapse load of pipe bends under in-plane opening moment
Authors: Silambarasan R , Veerappan AR , Shanmugam S
Published: July 2022

This study uses a three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element method to investigate the effects of bend angle ([Formula: see text]) and shape imperfection on the collapse load of pipe bends subjected to in-plane opening bending moment using large displacement analysis. ABAQUS was used to create a pipe bend model, whereas by virtue of symmetry about the longitudinal axis, half of the pipe bend model was built. The bend angle was varied from 30° to 180° with an interval of 30°, and shape imperfections, namely ovality ( Co) and thinning ( Ct), were varied from 0% to 20% each at 5% intervals. Elastic-perfectly plastic is thought to be the material of choice for the pipe bend. The results show that the bend angle has a significant impact on the collapse load of pipe bends between 30° and 120°, after which a significant decline was observed. The ovality impact increases with an increase in bend angle for pipe bends with a large thickness, whereas the opposite effect was found for smaller thicknesses with a small bend radius. The effect of bend radius and thickness was significant for large bend angles. Thinning ( Ct) and thickening ( Cth) have no effect on collapse load. A new mathematical equation has been proposed to predict the integrated effect of bend angle and shape imperfection.