bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Preoperative Sleep Disorders on Anesthesia Recovery and Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Gynecological Surgery under General Anesthesia
Authors: Yu Sicong , Xiong Yicheng , Lu Guangtao , Xiong Xiangqing
Published: December 2022

Sleep disorder dramatically affects people’s physical and mental health. Here, we investigated the effect of preoperative sleep disorders on anesthesia recovery and postoperative pain in patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery under general anesthesia. 120 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic gynecological surgery under general anesthesia in Taizhou Central Hospital from November 2021 to March 2022 were included. According to the score of the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), the participating patients were divided into four groups: control group (control group), mild sleep disorder group A (group A), moderate sleep disorder group B (group B), and severe sleep disorder group C (group C), with 30 patients in each group. The changes of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) at different time points, operation time, anesthesia time, extubation time, the time when Aldrete score reached 10 points, visual analog score (VAS) serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were compared among different groups. Our study demonstrated that there were no significant differences in MAP and HR among the four groups at the same time points (all

P
>
0.05

). Significant differences in the time of extubation and Aldrete score reaching 10 points had been found among the four groups (all

P
<
0.001

), indicating more sleep disorder induced longer extubation and recovery time. There were significant differences in VAS scores among the four groups at both different and the same time points (all

P
<
0.001

), suggesting more sleep disorders induced more pain in the sufferers. Serum IL-6 levels were significantly higher in the three sleep disorder groups than the control group at 6 h and 24 h after the operation (all

P
<
0.05

), while group C has the highest IL-6 levels as compared to the other group (

P
=
0.09

and

P
<
0.001

, respectively). At 6 h after operation, serum levels of TNF-α in group C were significantly higher than in the control group (

P
=
0.044

), but no significant differences were found in the other two groups (all

P
>
0.05

). Positive correlation with preoperative PSQI score has been found with the times of extubation, the time of Aldrete score reaching 10 points, the VAS at 1 h, 6 h, and 24 h after operation, the level of serum IL-6 at 1 day before operation and 6 h and 24 h after operation, and the TNF-α at 6 h and 24 h after operation (all

P
<
0.001

). The present study showed that the degree of preoperative sleep disorders could affect the quality of postoperative awakening and pain of patients undergoing laparoscopic gynecological surgery under general anesthesia, which might be associated with the aggravation of inflammatory reactions in the body.
Assessing Patient’s Values When Selecting Treatments for Alopecia Areata: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Drake Lara , Han Jane , Reyes-Hadsall Sophia , Mostaghimi Arash , Huang Kathie
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition that results in nonscarring hair loss. There is currently only one Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment for AA; as a result, a wide range of treatments are commonly administered. This study aimed to determine how patients with AA prioritize treatment characteristics when choosing a therapy. Methods: A cross-sectional national survey was distributed using the National Alopecia Areata Foundation’s (NAAF) email list. This study was approved by the Mass General Brigham Institutional Review Board. Participants were asked to rank the importance of five treatment domains. Results: Of the 1,074 completed surveys (completion rate 77.4%), most respondents were female (85.4%) and white (77.8%) with an average age of 49.3 ± 15.4 years. Respondents had AA for an average of 17.7 ± 15.4 years, with 90.0% experiencing current active hair loss. 95.6% of respondents considered the treatment’s ability to achieve hair regrowth as important, 93.9% listed the availability of information about the treatment (e.g., via doctor or online) as important, 89.1% ranked the treatment side effects as important, 75.7% the cost, and 68.0% the convenience of use. A sub-analysis was performed examining responses between respondents who identify as white versus nonwhite, which showed that while the order of importance was the same between groups, a significantly larger proportion of nonwhite respondents attributed higher importance to cost (white: 73.8%, nonwhite: 82.4%; p = 0.006) and convenience (white: 65.3%, nonwhite: 77.3%; p < 0.001) than their white counterparts. Discussion/Conclusion: These findings identify key domains that can serve as a starting point in shared decision-making between patients and physicians. This knowledge can streamline dermatologist delivery of key information and highlight areas of improvement for future therapeutics. Limitations include the nonrandomized NAAF population with most participants being white females. Future studies should confirm these findings in other patient populations.
Diversity and Status of Butterflies in Awasian Water Forest Reserve, Mt. Hilong-hilong, Philippines
Authors: GRASIA ARTURO , ABAO MARY CRIS G. , QUIŇONEZ KEVIN C. , SUAREZ MARK FREDDIE D. , ELEGIO LEA JANE G , MOHAGAN ALMA B.
Published: December 2022

Butterflies are deemed as an essential faunal group in the ecosystem due to their ecological services. However, continuous habitat loss leads to the decline of its population. Thus, this study was conducted to assess its diversity and status in one of the Watersheds of Mt. Hilong-hilong. Sweep netting (336 man-hours) and butterfly trapping (200 trap days) were carried out to document the species. Fifty-seven species of butterflies were recorded with the family Nymphalidae as the most represented group (n = 30). Species diversity (H') was relatively higher in Dipterocarp (H' = 1.49) forest than Agroecosystem (H' = 1.39), a result primarily influenced by favorable ecological support like food availability. Endemicity was 31%, which comprised mostly of rare species. Noteworthy findings are the listing of globally and nationally rare species but locally assessed as common. Based on the results, the area harbors an array of butterfly species and various rare species that requires an effective management plan to conserve the organisms.
MACROFUNGAL DIVERSITY IN DIFFERENT VEGETATION COMPOSITIONS IN TEGHARI COMMUNITY FOREST, KAILALI, WEST NEPAL
Authors: JOSHI KAUSALYA , ADHIKARI HARI SHARAN , ARYAL HARI PRASAD , SHRESTHA LAXMI JOSHI
Published: December 2022

Macrofungi are high-value forest resources that have functionally significant roles in the forest ecosystem. The macrofungal community of three different vegetation compositions, i.e., Sal (Shorea robusta) Forest, Tropical Deciduous Riverine Forest, and Tropical Evergreen Forest of Teghari Community Forest were investigated. Systematic random sampling was made where 60 plots (10 x 10 m) were laid in all different forest types (20 plots in each). A total of 102 macrofungi species were reported belonging to 36 families. Polyporaceae (17 species) was the largest family followed by Tricholomataceae (13 species) and saprophytic fungi were more frequent than mycorrhizal and parasitic fungi. The tropical evergreen forest was rich in macrofungi (59 species) followed by sal forest (40 species) and tropical deciduous riverine forest (38 species). Macrofungal diversity was directly related to surrounding host species. Similarly, increased soil moisture and canopy cover intensified the abundance of saprophytic fungi. The species richness was increased with increasing organic carbon, canopy, moisture, pH, and litter cover. However, soil nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were less significant in affecting species richness. Also, the disturbance was negatively correlated with the species richness of macrofungi. This study highlights the hidden diversity which is necessary for the conservation of macrofungi, to optimize forest ecosystem integrity and resilience against biotic and abiotic agents
Perioperative Considerations for Pediatric Patients With Congenital Heart Disease Presenting for Noncardiac Procedures: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Nasr Viviane G. , Markham Larry W. , Clay Mark , DiNardo James A. , Faraoni David , Gottlieb-Sen Danielle , Miller-Hance Wanda C. , Pike Nancy A. , Rotman Chloe ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young and Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention
Published: December 2022

Continuous advances in pediatric cardiology, surgery, and critical care have significantly improved survival rates for children and adults with congenital heart disease. Paradoxically, the resulting increase in longevity has expanded the prevalence of both repaired and unrepaired congenital heart disease and has escalated the need for diagnostic and interventional procedures. Because of this expansion in prevalence, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, and other health care professionals increasingly encounter patients with congenital heart disease or other pediatric cardiac diseases who are presenting for surgical treatment of unrelated, noncardiac disease. Patients with congenital heart disease are at high risk for mortality, complications, and reoperation after noncardiac procedures. Rigorous study of risk factors and outcomes has identified subsets of patients with minor, major, and severe congenital heart disease who may have higher-than-baseline risk when undergoing noncardiac procedures, and this has led to the development of risk prediction scores specific to this population. This scientific statement reviews contemporary data on risk from noncardiac procedures, focusing on pediatric patients with congenital heart disease and describing current knowledge on the subject. This scientific statement also addresses preoperative evaluation and testing, perioperative considerations, and postoperative care in this unique patient population and highlights relevant aspects of the pathophysiology of selected conditions that can influence perioperative care and patient management.
Divergent Roles of Ephrin-B2/EphB4 Guidance System in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Crnkovic Slaven , Rittchen Sonja , Jandl Katharina , Gindlhuber Juergen , Zabini Diana , Mutgan Ayse Ceren , Valzano Francesco , Boehm Panja M. , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Toller Wolfgang , Veith Christine , Heinemann Akos , Schermuly Ralph T. , Olschewski Andrea , Marsh Leigh M. , Kwapiszewska Grazyna
Published: December 2022

Background:

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) expansion is one key morphological hallmark of pathologically altered vasculature and a characteristic feature of pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension. Normal embryonal vessel maturation requires successful coverage of endothelial tubes with SMC, which is dependent on ephrin-B2 and EphB4 ligand-receptor guidance system. In this study, we investigated the potential role of ephrin-B2 and EphB4 on neomuscularization in adult pulmonary vascular disease.

Methods and Results:

Ephrin-B2 and EphB4 expression is preserved in smooth muscle and endothelial cells of remodeled pulmonary arteries. Chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension was not ameliorated in mice with SMC-specific conditional ephrin-B2 knockout. In mice with global inducible ephrin-B2 knockout, pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy upon chronic hypoxia exposure were significantly diminished compared to hypoxic controls, while right ventricular systolic pressure was unaffected. In contrast, EphB4 receptor kinase activity inhibition reduced right ventricular systolic pressure in hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension without affecting pulmonary vascular remodeling. Genetic deletion of ephrin-B2 in murine pulmonary artery SMC, and pharmacological inhibition of EphB4 in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, blunted mitogen-induced cell proliferation. Loss of EphB4 signaling additionally reduced RhoA expression and weakened the interaction between human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells in a three-dimensional coculture model.

Conclusions:

In sum, pulmonary vascular remodeling was dependent on ephrin-B2-induced Eph receptor (erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular carcinoma receptor) forward signaling in SMC, while EphB4 receptor activity was necessary for RhoA expression in SMC, interaction with endothelial cells and vasoconstrictive components of pulmonary hypertension.
Molecular and morphological notes on Opuntia ser. Streptacanthae (Cactaceae)
Authors: MARTÍNEZ-GONZÁLEZ CÉSAR RAMIRO , GALLEGOS-VÁZQUEZ CLEMENTE , MASCORRO-GALLARDO JOSÉ O. , BARRIENTOS-PRIEGO ALEJANDRO F.
Published: December 2022

A detailed morphological and molecular study of the four Opuntia species belonging to the ser. Streptacanthae is carried out. No published phylogenetic study of Opuntia includes these four species. Our data support the recognition of the four taxa as separated species but related by the characteristic of having a glabrous epidermis, yellow flowers, red and sweet fruits, in the present study it is recovered forming a monophyletic group within Opuntia s.str.
Mallomonas fragariformis sp. nov. (Synurales, Chrysophyceae), a new tropical chrysophyte species
Authors: GUSEV EVGENIY , KAPUSTIN DMITRY , SHKURINA NATALIYA , MARTYNENKO NIKITA , HUAN PHAN TRONG
Published: December 2022

Mallomonas fragariformis sp. nov. is described from Viet Nam based on silica-scale morphology studied by means of transmission and scanning electron microscopy. This species belongs to the Mallomonas mangofera species complex and is characterized by small scales ornamented with large papillae placed in shallow pits and stout four-edged serrated spines on the rear scales. Scales of Mallomonas fragariformis were found in eight localities from six provinces of Central and Southern Viet Nam. Also scales of this species have previously been reported from Java Island in Indonesia. The distribution and habitat conditions of the new species are summarized.
Description of eight new species of the genus Irepacma Moriuti, Saito & Lewvanich (Lepidoptera: Autostichidae) from China
Authors: WANG SHUXIA , XU ZHIXIN , LI SURAN
Published: December 2022

Eight new species of the genus Irepacma Moriuti, Saito & Lewvanich, 1985 are described based on specimens collected in China: I. bispicifera Wang, sp. nov., I. curticylindra Wang, sp. nov., I. denticulata Wang, sp. nov., I. flaviptera Wang, sp. nov., I. longiflagellata Wang, sp. nov., I. rotunda Wang, sp. nov., I. spiculosa Wang, sp. nov., I. tengchongensis Wang, sp. nov. Periacma isomora Meyrick, 1910 is transferred to the genus Irepacma: I. isomora (Meyrick, 1910), comb. nov. Images of adults and genitalia are provided.
A new giant species of Clinopodes from the Alborz Mountains, at the eastern edge of the genus range (Chilopoda: Geophilidae)
Authors: ZAREI ROGHAIEH , BONATO LUCIO
Published: December 2022

A new species of Clinopodes C. L. Koch, 1847, Clinopodes azadi n. sp., is described and illustrated, based on two specimens from Alborz Mountains, Iran. The new species lives in the easternmost part of the Western Palearctic range of the genus and is outstanding in comparison to all other known Clinopodes species, being the largest (surpassing 11 cm in length) and with the highest number of body segments (89–91 leg-bearing segments). C. azadi n. sp. differs from the other Clinopodes species also in the coxosternite of first maxillae (with a distinct mid-longitudinal sutural sulcus) and in the coxal pores (numerous, and sparse on the entire surface of the coxopleura).
On two new species of the genus Ctenolepisma (Zygentoma: Lepismatidae) from India
Authors: HAZRA ASHIS KUMAR , JANA DEBANJAN , MANDAL GURU PADA , MOLERO-BALTANÁS RAFAEL
Published: December 2022

Two new species of the genus Ctenolepisma Escherich, 1905 are described from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, India: Ctenolepisma (Ctenolepisma) venkataramani sp. n. and Ctenolepisma (Ctenolepisma) udumalpetense sp. n. Their affinities with related species are discussed and a key to the Indian species of the genus is provided.
Description of the male and female adults of Sparsorythus srokai Srinivasan et al. (Ephemeroptera: Tricorythidae) from India
Authors: MUTHUKATTURAJA MARIMUTHU , BALASUBRAMANIAN CHELLAIAH
Published: December 2022

Sparsorythus srokai is known from larva and eggs from the Western Ghats (Veerapandi River, Theni district, Tamil Nadu), India. The unknown adult stage (male and female subimagoes and imagoes) is described herein. An additional locality and its habitat ecology are also given for the species.
Theoretical Foundation of the Linear Relationship between the Midlatitude Eddy Heat Flux and Fall-to-Spring Polar Ozone Buildup
Authors: Hasebe Fumio , Kodera Sayaka , Akiyoshi Hideharu
Published: December 2022

It has been demonstrated that there is a globally unified linear relationship between the interannual variations of the fall-to-spring polar ozone accumulation and the winter-mean poleward eddy heat flux on the 100 hPa pressure surface. The foundation of this relationship is investigated using time-slice experiments on a chemistry–climate model with two levels of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs). The features of the transport field are interpreted by decomposing the horizontal ozone flux caused by the residual circulation into contributing processes including the eddy heat flux with the aid of the transformed Eulerian-mean momentum equation followed by rearrangement of terms. The linear relationship between the interannual variations of the fall-to-spring ozone buildup integrated poleward and above a reference point Pref on a meridional plane and the poleward eddy heat flux during the corresponding period at Pref is realized for each hemisphere implying that the interhemispheric unification should be treated with caution. This relationship is interpreted using the fact that the interannual variation of poleward ozone transport in the upper stratosphere is captured well by the vertical convergence of the constituent-based Eliassen–Palm (EP) flux (), which is defined as the product of the constituent (ozone) mixing ratio and EP flux. The eddy momentum flux contributes to the meridional ozone transport in combination with the eddy heat flux in the form of the divergence of , although it is not responsible for realizing the linear relationship. The dependence of the linearity on the location of Pref and ODS levels is discussed.
Meridional Location and Profile of a Prematurely Separated WBC Extension Jet in a Two-Layer System
Authors: Kubokawa Atsushi
Published: December 2022

Western boundary currents (WBCs) under no-slip boundary conditions tend to separate from the coast prematurely (without reaching the intergyre boundary) and form eastward jets. This study theoretically considers the meridional structure and location of a prematurely separated WBC extension jet using a two-layer quasigeostrophic model. Assuming homogenized potential vorticity (PV) regions on both sides of and below the jet, we constructed a simple model for the meridional profiles of the zonal flows in the western subtropical gyre. This work clarifies that the meridional structure can be determined if two variables, such as the strength of the PV front (difference in PV across the jet) and the value of the streamfunction at the jet’s center, are given in addition to the meridional profile of the Sverdrup zonal flow and the vertical stratification. The zonal velocity profiles in both layers agreed well with those obtained by numerical experiments. When the jet is close to the intergyre boundary, the meridional location of the jet depends only on the front’s strength. When the northern recirculation gyre is detached from the intergyre boundary and the local wind effect on the jet is negligible, comparisons with the numerical experiments suggest that the jet’s central streamline connects to the central streamline of the eastward Sverdrup flow. We also found that a downward Ekman pumping velocity shifts the jet southward.
Intense Surface Winds from Gravity Wave Breaking in Simulations of a Destructive Macroburst
Authors: Schumacher Russ S. , Childs Samuel J. , Adams-Selin Rebecca D.
Published: December 2022

Shortly after 0600 UTC (midnight local time) 9 June 2020, a convective line produced severe winds across parts of northeast Colorado that caused extensive damage, especially in the town of Akron. High-resolution observations showed gusts exceeding 50 m s−1, accompanied by extremely large pressure fluctuations, including a 5-hPa pressure surge in 19 s immediately following the strongest winds and a 15-hPa pressure drop in the following 3 min. Numerical simulations of this event (using the WRF Model) and with horizontally homogeneous initial conditions (using Cloud Model 1) reveal that the severe winds in this event were associated with gravity wave dynamics. In a very stable postfrontal environment, elevated convection initiated and led to a long-lived gravity wave. Strong low-level vertical wind shear supported the amplification and eventual breaking of this wave, resulting in at least two sequential strong downbursts. This wave-breaking mechanism is different from the usual downburst mechanism associated with negative buoyancy resulting from latent cooling. The model output reproduces key features of the high-resolution observations, including similar convective structures, large temperature and pressure fluctuations, and intense near-surface wind speeds. The findings of this study reveal a series of previously unexplored mesoscale and storm-scale processes that can result in destructive winds.

Significance Statement

Downbursts of intense wind can produce significant damage, as was the case on 9 June 2020 in Akron, Colorado. Past research on downbursts has shown that they occur when raindrops, graupel, and hail in thunderstorms evaporate and melt, cooling the air and causing it to sink rapidly. In this research, we used numerical models of the atmosphere, along with high-resolution observations, to show that the Akron downburst was different. Unlike typical lines of thunderstorms, those responsible for the Akron macroburst produced a wave in the atmosphere, which broke, resulting in rapidly sinking air and severe surface winds.
Organized Crime and Foreign Direct Investment: Evidence From Criminal Groups in Mexico
Authors: Garriga Ana Carolina , Phillips Brian J.
Published: December 2022

How does organized crime affect foreign direct investment (FDI) in developing countries? Some research examines the effects of crime, such as homicide rates, on FDI. However, we know little about how organized crime in particular might affect such investment. This paper examines organized crime and FDI in Mexican states between 2000 and 2018. This case is important because Mexico is one of the top global recipients of FDI. At the same time, criminal violence has killed hundreds of thousands of people in Mexico in recent years, and scholars seek to understand the violence’s wider effects. We explain how organized crime competition, as opposed to crime generally, should shape investors’ decisions. Analyses using original data on criminal organization territory find that higher numbers of criminal groups are associated with lower levels of new FDI. Other measures of crime, such as homicide rates or crime rates, are not associated with foreign investment.
State preemption and affordable housing policy
Authors: Goodman Christopher B , Hatch Megan E
Published: December 2022

Many affordable housing policies are the domain of local governments. While subnational housing policies can be used to increase racial and economic segregation, they can also protect renters, and thus are not without controversy. Local affordable housing policies include inclusionary zoning, rent control, short-term rental regulation and source of income discrimination. Starting in the 1980s, states began to preempt these local laws, preventing their cities from adopting affordable housing policies. We ask why states choose to preempt one or more of these four affordable housing policies. Using a cross-sectional, time-series dataset of preemptions, we find evidence that more conservative legislatures are more likely to adopt preemptions, while more professional legislatures and states with higher rental rates and previous preemptions are less likely to preempt. Contrary to expectations, interest group density, electoral competition and policy diffusion are not significant predictors of preemption. For advocates and policymakers concerned with increasing affordable housing in their jurisdictions, these results raise unease about the ability to further an affordable housing agenda at the local level, particularly in more conservative political environments, suggesting instead that affordable housing may need to return to the purview of the federal government.
The Mediating Effect of Caregiving Relationship Quality on the Association Between Caregiving Stressors and Mental Health Problems Among Older Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Wang Fei , Irani Elliane , Tian Michael Chao , Yi Lau Mandy Man
Published: December 2022

Providing care to a spouse can be especially challenging for older adults given their compounding stressors resulting from aging and caregiving. This cross-sectional study examines the relationships between caregiving stressors and caregiver mental health problems and the potential mediator (i.e., caregiving relationship quality) of these associations. A total of 431 Americans (≥65 years) were selected from the National Study of Caregiving. Path analysis shows that care assistance was positively associated with caregiver mental health problems, and this association was mediated by negative relationship quality (Indirect effect  =  .14, p  =  .016). Moreover, role overload was positively associated with caregiver mental health problems, which was mediated by negative relationship quality (indirect effect  =  .13, p  =  .002). Findings suggest that caregiving stressors can adversely affect mental health by exacerbating negative relationship quality. Interventions that limit negative exchanges and increase compassionate communications between older spousal caregivers and their care-receiving partners are needed.
Karst paleotopography on top of the Dengying Formation and petroleum geological significance in the Central Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Zhou Zikun , Wang Xingzhi , Yang Xiyan , Wang Wenzhi , Zhou Hongfei , Yang Yueming , Wen Long , Huo Fei , Pei Senqi
Published: December 2022

Reconstructing karst palaeogeomorphology is a useful approach to identifying target areas for oil and gas exploration. This study used the elevation method to reconstruct the karst palaeogeomorphology at the top of the 4th member (Z2dn4) of the Dengying Formation (Z2dn) in the Central Sichuan Basin based on 2D and 3D seismic and drilling data. The bottom of the Longwangmiao Formation and the top of the 2nd member (Z2dn2) of the Z2dn were optimized as the upper and lower base levels, respectively. The reconstructed palaeogeomorphology was divided into five types – slopes, erosional peneplains, monadnocks, domes and depressions – according to their morphology, scope and gradient, allowing inference of the palaeohydrological conditions. Slopes were subdivided into gentle (<1.2°) and steep (≥ 1.2°; maximum gradient around 16°). Reservoirs on steep slopes and monadnocks are the most developed, owing to their considerable hydraulic head differences, strong palaeohydrodynamics, and intense erosion and incision. Steep slopes with more developed karst porosities are banded and immediately adjoin a regional hydrocarbon generation centre. Hydrocarbons generated in this centre tend to migrate laterally and become entrapped in porous slopes and their vicinities. Consequently, hydrocarbons move upward along steep slopes and, preferentially, slopes and monadnocks. Thus, the steep slope zone and its vicinity (including some monadnocks, gentle slopes and peneplains) are the most favourable areas for exploration of hydrocarbon reservoirs and should be the primary targets.
Adoption of Social Media during Covid-19 Pandemic by African Presidents: A Cross-Sectional Study of Selected Facebook Accounts
Authors: Adikpo Janet Aver
Published: December 2022

This paper examined the adoption of social media to disperse information at the beginning of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Content analysis was employed to identify and select relevant posts for presidents of five African countries (Egypt, South Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, and Nigeria) from February to July 2020, which were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Results indicate that African leaders utilized Facebook mostly in April, posting majorly in text form about issues centered on diplomatic ties, information and orientation, and preventive measures. Followers were more inclined to share the posts than they react by emojis and comments based on Facebook account, post form, and post topic. The findings demonstratively uphold the significance of social media in leadership communication, highlighting ways by which frequent and dominant content can be directed in messages during a crisis.
Effects of Buprenorphine/Naloxone and Methadone on Depressive Symptoms in People with Prescription Opioid Use Disorder: A Pragmatic Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Bastien Gabriel , McAnulty Christina , Ledjiar Omar , Socias M. Eugenia , Le Foll Bernard , Lim Ron , Hassan Ahmed N. , Brissette Suzanne , Marsan Stéphanie , Talbot Annie , Jutras-Aswad Didier ,   for the OPTIMA Research Group within the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of flexible take-home dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP/NX) and methadone standard model of care in reducing depressive symptoms in people with prescription-type opioid use disorder (POUD). This trial also evaluated whether improvements in depressive symptoms were mediated by opioid use.

Methods

Analyzed data came from the OPTIMA study (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03033732), a pragmatic randomised controlled trial comparing flexible take-home dosing of BUP/NX and methadone standard model of care for reducing opioid use in people with POUD. A total of 272 participants were recruited in four Canadian provinces. Participants were randomised 1:1 to BUP/NX or methadone. After treatment induction, past two-week opioid use was measured using the Timeline Followback every two weeks for a total of 24 weeks. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Beck Depression Inventory at baseline, weeks 12 and 24.

Results

Both BUP/NX and methadone significantly reduced depressive symptoms at week 12 (aβ ± SE = −3.167 ± 1.233; P < 0.001) and week 24 (aβ ± SE = −7.280 ± 1.285; P < 0.001), with no interaction between type of treatment and time ( P = 0.284). Improvements in depressive symptoms were only partially mediated by a reduction in opioid use (proportion mediated = 36.8%; 95% confidence interval = −1.158 to −0.070; P = 0.015).

Conclusions

BUP/NX and methadone showed similar effectiveness in decreasing comorbid depressive symptoms in people with POUD. This effect was partially explained by a reduction in opioid use. As both treatments seem equally effective, clinicians are encouraged to tailor the selection of OAT to patients’ needs and characteristics.
The Influence of Design Geometry on the Operational Performance of Helmholtz Pulse Combustor
Authors: Ibrahim Said MA , Taha Mohamed R , Elqammash Mahmoud N
Published: December 2022

The objective of this study is to build a pulse combustion simulation model in order to determine the design parameters that influence the pulse combustor’s optimized performance. The Helmholtz valveless pulse combustor type is the simple design of pulse combustors. It has many advantages over conventional combustion, so it has been used in a variety of applications. There are many parameters that need to be studied in order to design this combustor type to achieve optimal performance. This research presents numerical and experimental investigations of pulse combustion. FLUENT software is used to conduct numerical simulations of the design parameters and pulse combustor performance. These simulations are then experimentally validated and confirmed to be accurately optimized in order to be applicable. The performance of the pulse combustor is studied for different inlet and tailpipe length and combustion chamber volume. This research accurately predicts how the frequency and pressure amplitude vary as the lengths of the inlet and tailpipe increase, as well as the combustion chamber volume.
Estimating the carbon dioxide emission levels of G7 countries: A count data approach
Authors: Tuo Siele Jean , Li Chang , Brou Ettien Fulgence , Kassi Diby Francois , Gnangoin Yobouet Thierry
Published: December 2022

The G7 countries account for about 40% of the global gross domestic product and emit 25% of energy-related emissions due to their energy use, releasing so much carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. This study uses competing count data models to model carbon emissions between 2002 and 2021. All the hypotheses are significant and with varied effects on the energy use of the G7 economies, backing the increasing levels of emissions. The findings show that emissions from manufacturing and construction have mixed effects on the energy use of the G7 countries, increasing by 2.37% and reducing by 6.65% and 8.39% in some countries. The study proves that the transport sector is the hard-to-abate sector as the effects of the transport covariate impact minimally between 6.49% and 4.13% of the G7. This means that the transport sector is the high-hanging fruit for deep decarbonization due to the low level of technology readiness. Also, emissions from solid fuels increase between 6.49% and 4.13% in the G7 countries, implying that coal consumption has peaked due to the current energy crisis. The cross-sectional dependence (CD) analysis proves a strong significant dependence among the study countries depicting the global nature of pollution. The fitness of the model was performed using the Akaike and Bayesian information criteria to determine the appropriate method to present robust and consistent results. The panel's negative Poisson regression model obtains the lowest Akaike information criteria and Bayesian information criteria values and is therefore the most appropriate model for the analysis. This will serve as a rallying point for achieving net zero emission (NZE) targets by mid-century and for scaling technologies to achieve that goal.
A New Lifecycle Model Enabling Optimal Digital Curation
Authors: Rhee Hea Lim
Published: December 2022

This study recognizes the international need for a broadly applicable lifecycle model to facilitate efficient and systematic digital curation. Consequently, it has developed a generic digital curation lifecycle model, titled the d-KISTI model. This model was developed by applying content analysis and thematic coding to data collected through a two-year review of relevant literature, existing conceptual lifecycle models, and empirical investigations of KISTI’s digital curation practice. It was then refined further through consultations with many international digital curation experts. The d-KISTI model presents actions and their relationships with one another that have gone previously unacknowledged in the DCC curation lifecycle model and other existing curation models. These actions and relationships, which are articulated at length within the study, reflect the rapidly changing nature of the global digital curation landscape and offer more representative curation activities to information organizations. Moreover, through its investigation and analysis of KISTI’s digital curation practices, this study contributes to existing literature on digital curation in Korea. Ultimately, the d-KISTI model seeks to optimize digital curation strategies and practices, both within Korea and internationally, and, moreover, hopes to serve as a foundational touchstone for future studies on digital curation.
Trans-Formed by the Spirit: How the Doctrine of Miraculous Conception Reveals Jesus to Be an Intersex Trans Man
Authors: Day Georgia
Published: December 2022

This article is a queer reading of the doctrine of miraculous conception and an exploration into how applying an intersex lens to these conception texts can liberate an intersex Jesus. In it, I explain the basics of intersex and otherwise queer theologies, before looking at sex difference in the New Testament through the figures of eunuchs, and conducting an intersex reading of Jesus’ conception and biology. I argue that, if we believe Mary to be a virgin at the moment of Jesus’ conception, with no external male influence, then Jesus is necessarily a chromosomal ‘female’ (and therefore intersex, due to his ‘male’ physical appearance). I then discuss the ways in which his biology can transcend prescriptive roles of sex, mirroring how his social behaviour transcends prescriptive roles of gender. What this queer reading of Jesus can tell us relates to a gender-expansive view of deity – troubling rigid Church institutions by celebrating the breaking of binaries that constrain us.
The difference in diameter between radial artery and cephalic vein correlates with primary patency of radio-cephalic arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Jiang Ying , Huang Xiaoyan , Shan Ying , Chen Li , Huang Huie , Jiang Lei , Liang Wei
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Autogenous radio-cephalic arteriovenous fistula (RCAVF) is preferred for chronic hemodialysis access. However, RCAVF still suffers from disappointing survival due to fistula dysfunction, with intimal hyperplasia (IH) as an underlying cause of this condition. The inconsistency of radial artery diameter (DRA) and cephalic vein diameter (DCV) is one of the factors affecting the shear disturbance, which is believed to trigger the onset of IH. However, there are no reports correlating the difference in DRA and DCV with RCAVF outcomes.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study. Consecutive patients ( n = 233) with a new RCAVF created were included if they underwent duplex ultrasound examination to evaluate preoperatively the radial artery diameter (DRA) and cephalic venous diameter (DCV). We then calculated radial artery-cephalic vein diameter difference (DCV minus DRA, termed DCV-DRA hereafter) and evaluated the association of the preoperative DCV-DRA with primary patency of RCAVF at 12 months. Subgroup analysis was also performed to explore effect modification by age, gender, radial artery diameter, and cephalic vein diameter with DCV-DRA.

Results:

After adjusting for age, gender, weight, and mean arterial pressure, the preoperative DCV-DRA was associated with primary patency of RCAVF at 12 months (adjusted Odds ratio [aOR], 1.524 per 1-mm increase; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.048–2.218). The primary patency of RCAVF at 12 months was achieved in 69.4%, 71.8%,and 87.3% of patients with a preoperative DCV-DRA of ⩽−0.6 mm, (−0.5)–0.5 mm, and ⩾0.6 mm, respectively. P for trend was 0.029. Patients with DCV-DRA of ⩾0.6 mm had a much higher chance of 12-month patency than patients with DCV-DRA of ⩽−0.6 mm (aOR, 3.574; 95% CI, 1.276–10.010). Age, gender, radial artery diameter, and cephalic vein diameter did not modify the association of DCV-DRA with primary patency of RCAVF at 12 months.

Conclusions:

Preoperative DCV-DRA may be an under-recognized predictor of RCAVF patency.
How my life is unique: Sibling perspectives of autism
Authors: Burnham Riosa Priscilla , Ensor Rebecca , Jichici Brynn , Davy Brittany
Published: December 2022

The impact of autism on the family is an area of study that merits further research attention. Much of the existing literature has focused on the parent perspective, with less emphasis on the experiences of other family members, particularly non-autistic siblings. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of a sample of nine 8- to 17-year-old non-autistic siblings of children and youth on the autism spectrum. We interviewed siblings and analysed transcripts using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Our results revealed the following Group Experiential Themes: (1) Role disparities, different expectations; (2) C onnection and disconnection; and (3) Our family is (extra)ordinary. Our study findings highlight the unique and collective perspectives of siblings regarding their brother or sister on the spectrum within the broader family dynamic. We discuss the implications of these results on siblings of autistic children and youth.

Lay abstract

The impact of autism on the family is an important area of study. Much of the existing literature has focused on the parent perspective, with less emphasis on the experiences of other family members, especially non-autistic siblings. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of a sample of nine 8- to 17-year-old non-autistic siblings of children and youth on the autism spectrum. We interviewed non-autistic siblings and analysed the written transcripts. Our results revealed the following themes: (1) Role disparities, different expectations; (2) Connection and disconnection; and (3) Our family is (extra)ordinary. Our study findings highlight siblings’ unique and collective perspectives regarding their brother or sister on the spectrum within the broader family unit. We discuss the implications of these results on siblings of autistic children and youth.
An initial trial of OPT-In-Early: An online training program for caregivers of autistic children
Authors: Dai Yael G , Thomas Rebecca P , Brennan Lynn , Luu My-Linh , Hughes-Lika Jamie , Reilly Molly , Moreno Paula , Obe Brenda , Ahmed Kelli B , Berry Leandra N , Goin-Kochel Robin P , Helt Molly S , Barton Marianne L , Dumont-Mathieu Thyde , Robins Diana L , Fein Deborah A
Published: December 2022

Online Parent Training in Early Behavioral Intervention (OPT-In-Early) is a self-directed resource for caregivers of autistic children. Sixty-three parent–child dyads from three states in were randomized to the OPT-In-Early or treatment as usual group. Parents in both groups completed baseline and post-treatment visits, which were targeted for 4 months apart but allowed to go up to 6 months. Compared to parents in the treatment as usual group, parents randomized to OPT-In-Early learned more evidence-based intervention principles from baseline to post-treatment and were rated by observers blind to group and time as increasing their use of these strategies during brief semi-structured interactions with their children. Parent participation in OPT-In-Early did not significantly influence children’s social communication as coded from one observation session. Results suggest that parents acquired knowledge and skills in intervention techniques from OPT-In-Early. Longer trials may be needed for gains in child behavior.

Lay abstract

Early intervention can help children learn language and improve social communication. However, many barriers, including the expense of services and an insufficient number of providers, prohibit families from accessing services when their children are young. We developed a comprehensive online program for caregivers of autistic children. The program, Online Parent Training in Early Behavioral Intervention (OPT-In-Early), uses text and video demonstrations to teach caregivers effective methods for improving their children’s language, social, and adaptive skills (e.g. using utensils, toilet training), and reducing their children’s disruptive behavior. Sixty-three parents from three states participated in the study. Half of the parents received access to the OPT-In-Early program. After 4 months, parents who had access to the OPT-In-Early program learned more effective intervention strategies, and started using these strategies during interactions with their children, than parents who did not receive access to the program. Parent participation in OPT-In-Early did not significantly influence children’s social communication compared to children whose parents did not have access to OPT-In-Early. A longer duration of parents using learned intervention skills with their children may be needed for children’s social communication skills to improve.
Current research and developments in welding of 18% nickel maraging steel
Authors: Jose Bibin , Manoharan Manikandan , Natarajan Arivazhagan , Muktinutalapati Nageswara Rao , Madhusudhan Reddy G. , Meshram Suresh D.
Published: December 2022

Maraging steels are low-carbon, high nickel-containing precipitation-hardened steels with an excellent combination of strength and toughness. Their outstanding performance gained the increasing attention of scientists, industrialists, and end-users over the past six decades. The present global rapid growth in the consumption of maraging steel, particularly in aerospace, defense and other engineering applications, involves the fabrication of high-performance welded joints. Maraging steels offer relatively high flexibility from the welding point of view. Gas tungsten arc welding is the most preferred welding process for maraging steels. As the need for increased productivity is growing worldwide in many fields, such as aerospace, mechanical engineering, etc., where thick sections are used, issues like heat input, inter-pass temperature, cooling rate, and the selection of weld consumables become important for achieving defect-free joints. Many advanced techniques like plasma, laser, and hybrid welding processes are being developed to fulfil the requirements for joining higher thickness products without distortion. The major problem associated with welding maraging steel is the formation of reverted austenite in the fusion zone and the heat-affected zone. This problem can be mitigated by choosing optimized filler wires and the proper selection of post-weld heat treatment for the weldments. This paper extensively reviews the influence of welding processes and conditions on the microstructure and mechanical properties of maraging steels with due emphasis to structure–property relationships.
When entrepreneurs become custodians: Categories’ place-based identity and collective coping response in extreme contexts
Authors: Haşim Kemal , Soppe Birthe
Published: December 2022

We conducted a qualitative study of the category of independent tourism entrepreneurs in the politically contested territory of Northern Cyprus to understand how a collective of entrepreneurs whose shared identity is deeply rooted in place perceives and copes with threats arising in an extreme context. Northern Cyprus is an extreme context as it suffers from enduring political and socio-cultural challenges. Our findings reveal that the entrepreneurs’ collective identity is rooted in a deep-seated attachment to local family, culture, and region. This place-based collective identity drives not only their entrepreneurial engagement, but also their explicit concern for cultural suppression and dilution as a core identity threat and commons problem within the extreme context. Our findings show how the place-based entrepreneurs, in coping with this threat, become custodians of local culture as they engage in a set of collective custodial activities aimed at preserving the local cultural heritage. Our study holds important contributions for research on categories and place, custodianship, and entrepreneurship in extreme contexts.