bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The contribution of the immune system to genitourinary fibrosis
Authors: Doersch Karen M , Barnett Daniel , Chase Abbie , Johnston Daniel , Gabrielsen J Scott
Published: May 2022

Fibrotic diseases of the genitourinary tract are devastating and incompletely understood pathologies. These diseases include urethral and ureteral strictures, retroperitoneal fibrosis, and Peyronie’s disease. They can contribute to obstructive uropathy and sexual dysfunction. Poor understanding of the pathophysiology of these diseases severely limits our ability to prevent and treat them. Genitourinary fibrotic diseases likely represent related pathologies that share common underlying mechanisms involving wound healing in response to injury. These diseases share the common feature of extracellular matrix abnormalities—such as collagen deposition, transforming growth factor-β accumulation, and dysregulation of collagen maturation—leading to abnormal tissue stiffness. Given the association of many of these diseases with autoimmunity, a systemic pro-inflammatory state likely contributes to their associated fibrogenesis. Herein, we explore the immunologic contribution to fibrogenesis in several fibrotic diseases of the genitourinary system. Better understanding how the immune system contributes to fibrosis in these diseases may improve prevention and therapeutic strategies and elucidate the functions of immunologic contributors to fibrosis in general.
Telerehabilitation for Stroke is Here to Stay. But at What Cost?
Authors: Laver Kate , Walker Marion , Ward Nick
Published: May 2022

The use of telerehabilitation after stroke has necessarily increased in the last 2 years because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many rehabilitation teams rapidly adapted to offering their services remotely. Evidence supporting the efficacy of telerehabilitation is still scarce with few randomized controlled trials, although current systematic reviews suggest that telerehabilitation does not lead to inferior outcomes when compared to face-to-face treatment. Increasing experience of telerehabilitation however has highlighted some of the pitfalls that need to be solved before we see widespread pragmatic adoption of new practices. We must ensure that offering services using digital technologies does not exclude those who need our services. We must acknowledge that our interactions online differ, both in the way we relate to each other and in the content of clinical consultations. Furthermore, we need to consider how to support staff who may be feeling disconnected and fatigued after spending hours providing remote therapies. Telerehabilitation is likely here to stay and has potential to help deliver rehabilitation to the many people who could benefit, but there are obstacles, challenges and trade-offs to be considered and overcome.
Vulnerability association evaluation of Internet of thing devices based on attack graph
Authors: Ma Yao , Wu Yuting , Yu Dan , Ding Lv , Chen Yongle
Published: May 2022

Device vulnerabilities emerge one after another in the Internet of thing environment, the attackers attack vulnerabilities on several low-level devices simultaneously by multi-step attack method to trigger the vulnerabilities on other high-level devices to damage or control the information system. Considering the correlation between device vulnerabilities, we proposed a method based on attack graph to evaluate vulnerability risk in order to ensure Internet of thing network security. First, according to the type, version, and other relevant information of device vulnerabilities in the Internet of thing environment, hidden Markov model can be used to model the association between device states. Second, analyze the possible attacks on the vulnerabilities on the device, and generate the attack graph according to the correlation between the device states and the relevant information of the vulnerabilities in the device. Finally, the vulnerabilities are objectively and accurately evaluated according to the attack graph. The experiments results show that the proposed method can map the relationship between devices more accurately and objectively and improve the efficiency and accuracy of the vulnerability evaluation.
A graph-based sensor recommendation model in semantic sensor network
Authors: Chen Yuanyi , Lin Yihao , Yu Peng , Tao Yanyun , Zheng Zengwei
Published: May 2022

In the past few years, introducing ontology to describe the concepts and relationships between different entities in semantic sensor network enhances the interoperability between entities. Existing works mostly based on SPARQL retrieval ignore the user’s specific requirements of sensor attributes. Therefore, the recommendation results cannot satisfy the user’s needs. In this article, we propose a graph-based sensor recommendation model. The model mainly includes two parts: (1) Filtering nodes in data graph. In addition to using the traditional graph matching algorithm, we propose a threshold pruning algorithm to narrow the matching scope and improve the matching efficiency. (2) Recommending top- k sensors. We use the improved fast non-dominated sorting algorithm to obtain the local optimal solutions of sensor data set, and we apply the simple additive weight algorithm to characterize and sort local optional solutions. Finally, we recommend the top- k sensors to the user. By comparison, the graph-based sensor recommendation algorithm meets user’s needs more than other algorithms, and experiments show that our model outperforms several baselines in terms of both response time and precision.
Virtual Photovoice With Older Adults: Methodological Reflections during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ferlatte Olivier , Karmann Julie , Gariépy Geneviève , Frohlich Katherine L. , Moullec Gregory , Lemieux Valérie , Hébert Réjean
Published: May 2022

Photovoice is a participatory action research method in which participants take and narrate photographs to share their experiences and perspectives. This method is gaining in popularity among health researchers. Few studies, however, have described virtual photovoice data collection despite the growing interest among qualitative health researchers for online data collection. As such, the aim of this article is to discuss the implementation of a virtual photovoice study and presents some of the challenges of this design and potential solutions. The study examined issues of social isolation and mental health among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Canadian province of Québec. Twenty-six older adults took photographs depicting their experience of the pandemic that were then shared in virtual discussion groups. In this article, we discuss three key challenges arising from our study and how we navigated them. First, we offer insights into managing some of the technical difficulties related to using online meeting technologies. Second, we describe the adjustments we made during our study to foster and maintain positive group dynamics. Third, we share our insights into the process of building and maintaining trust between both researchers and participants, and amongst participants. Through a discussion of these challenges, we offer suggestions to guide the work of health promotion researchers wishing to conduct virtual photovoice studies, including with older adults.
Design and performance analysis of a flexible unit based on selective laser melting
Authors: Liang Keshan , Zhang Qingbiao , Cao Yujun , Tang Li
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a microstructure, the flexible unit, employing the leaf spring working principle in machinery. The flexible unit has elasticity and damping capability. Parts using flexible units produce greater elastic deformation than rigid parts under great impact external loads, thus absorbing and consuming large energy amounts during deformation. First, the flexible unit’s structural form and layout designs are presented. Second, the constraint conditions for the flexible unit’s structural parameters are given according to selective laser melting process characteristics. Third, flexible units with different parameters are selected and produced using selective laser melting. The influences of the flexible unit’s structural parameters on the mechanical properties and energy absorption are then analyzed from compression test results. Finally, the strength and energy absorption of the common Kagome structure and the flexible unit are compared. The results show that the flexible unit’s yield strength is ~36% higher than a Kagome structure with the same mass. The flexible unit’s absorbed energy is ~27% higher when damaged and ~39% higher during elastic deformation than for the Kagome structure. Thus, flexible units have demonstrably excellent performance, so their design and application provide an alternative for the lightweight and miniaturized design of parts with large impact loads.
Instantaneous friction energy consumption and its evolution of high energy efficiency milling cutter
Authors: Zhao Peiyi , Zhang Lei , Jiang Bin , Wang Yongzhong
Published: May 2022

In the process of high-efficiency milling of titanium alloys, cutting vibration causes the frequent changes in the contact relationship between the flank face of the cutter tooth and the workpiece. The instantaneous friction speed, friction force and energy consumption of the milling cutter thus change continuously, resulting in the difficulty to precisely control the wear and life of milling cutter. This has become a bottleneck of restricting the further improvement of the cutting performance of high energy efficiency milling cutter. In this work, the model of instantaneous friction velocity and friction energy consumption of the flank face of the cutter tooth under vibration are developed. The distribution and evolution of instantaneous friction speed and friction energy consumption are studied. The proposed models are verified by high-efficiency milling experiments. The results show that the average relative error of the proposed model is 10.05%, by using this model, the influences of the cutting vibration on instantaneous friction energy consumption and friction wear boundaries could be effectively unveiled. The proposed model also could accurately describe the distribution and evolution of the above-mentioned parameters.
Research of expendable turbojet tubular combustion chamber
Authors: Davidović Nikola S. , Kolarević Nenad M. , Stanković Miloš B. , Miloš Marko V.
Published: May 2022

This paper presents research related to the tubular combustion chamber of an expendable turbojet. Although annular combustors are dominant at present, tubular combustors are still attractive because they are simpler to produce and require lower amounts of air flow for testing. The objective of this research was to assess the combustor’s primary zone configuration, and four configurations were tested to obtain experimental answers for use in future work. The configuration of the combustion chamber is a simple and classic design in line with its expendable purpose. The test methodology was to perform initial testing of the primary and secondary zones under atmospheric conditions using the four configurations, and then to subsequently complete the combustor using the best configuration. The complete combustor was then tested under both atmospheric conditions and working conditions. The results showed that the stability margin was wide enough to cover the combustor’s entire working area. The measured efficiency and pressure drop were in very good agreement with the corresponding designed values. The design and testing methodology proposed here could be used for similar scientific and engineering research applications.
School-entry predictors of lower primary reading and mathematics achievement in Kenya
Authors: Platas Linda M , Perry Lindsey , Piper Benjamin , Sitabkhan Yasmin , Ketterlin-Geller Leanne
Published: May 2022

Using a longitudinal data set, this paper examines to what extent school-entry ( N = 553; mean age 6.32 years) early mathematics and literacy skills predict students’ later achievement in a lower-middle-income country, Kenya. Controlling for socioeconomic status, intervention status, rural versus urban settings and parental literacy, the findings reveal that school-entry mathematics skills were significantly predictive of students’ end of Grade 2 mathematics and reading achievement in English and Kiswahili. Likewise, school-entry English early literacy skills predicted students’ end of Grade 2 mathematics and reading achievement in English and Kiswahili. This article extends earlier research on links between elements of school readiness and later achievement in high-income countries.
The long-term effects of students’ economic competencies on the transition from school to university in the international context
Authors: Jüttler Michael , Schumann Stephan
Published: May 2022

Because of the high social relevance of an economics education, many countries now focus on the enhancement of economic competencies in schools. International results show strong deficits in basic economic knowledge, especially for students in upper secondary education, who usually enter higher education. Furthermore, it is not clear what effects these competencies have on subsequent transitions, which is primarily due to a lack of longitudinal studies. Against this background, this article systematically embeds findings from a Swiss longitudinal study in the international context. Thereby, Switzerland is systematically compared with other countries that also provide substantial research on economic education (e.g., the U.S. and Japan). Lessons learned from the Swiss case will be discussed from an international perspective, and implications for future international research will be derived.
Lessons from the COVID-19 epidemic in Hubei, China: Perspectives on frontline nursing
Authors: Chau Janita Pak Chun , Lo Suzanne Hoi Shan , Zhao Jie , Butt Laveeza , Saran Ravneet , Lam Simon Kwun Yu , Thompson David R.
Published: May 2022

Background

The emergence of COVID-19 has been an ordeal for nurses worldwide. It is crucial to understand their experiences at the frontline, attempt to allay their concerns, and help inform future pandemic response capabilities.

Aims

To explore nurses’ lived experiences at the frontline in order to identify and address their concerns and help enhance future responses to infectious disease outbreaks.

Methods

A qualitative study was carried out. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 registered nurses who came to Hubei from different parts of China to care for patients with COVID-19. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.

Results

Six major themes emerged: emotional turmoil due to personal and professional concerns, quality issues with personal protective equipment and associated physical discomfort, witnessing and managing patient distress, readiness of emergency response mechanisms in the health system, collective community awareness and preparedness, and heightened professional pride and confidence in future epidemic control.

Discussion

Nurses were placed in challenging and unfamiliar situations to deal with unexpected and unpredictable events which caused considerable psychological and physical distress. Support in the form of government edicts, hospital management policies, community generosity and collegiality was highly welcomed by the nurses. Policy makers and managers should ensure that nurses are provided with the support and resources necessary for dealing with large-scale infectious disease outbreaks. Priority should be given to risk assessment, infection prevention and control, and patient and staff health and safety.
Homologous recombination deficiency predicts the response to platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in early-stage triple-negative breast cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Liulu , Chen Yuanqi , Cheng Min-Yi , Zhuang Xiaosheng , Zou Jiachen , Wei Dannuo , Lin Ying-Yi , Zhang Yi , Wang Kun
Published: May 2022

Background:

Recent studies have shown that homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) may be correlated with the pathological complete response (pCR) rate. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the predictive value of HRD for the pCR rate in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) receiving platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT).

Methods:

Published articles were searched in the PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases up to 1 June 2021, and studies reporting the pCR rate for HRD carriers on platinum-based NCT were selected. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined for the pCR rate, clinical response rate, and Grade 3 or higher adverse events (AEs) using the random-effects model. Bias risk was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool (PROSPERO, registration number CRD42021249874).

Results:

Seven studies were eligible. The results showed that HRD carriers had higher pCR rates than non-HRD carriers across all treatment arms (OR = 3.84, 95% CI = [1.93, 7.64], p = 0.0001). Among HRD carriers, the pCR rate was higher in patients on platinum-based NCT than in those without platinum exposure (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = [1.17, 3.23], p = 0.01). We did not observe marked pCR improvements in non-HRD carriers. Among HRD carriers, the pCR rates in the mutant and wild-type breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) groups did not differ significantly (OR = 2.00, 95% CI = [0.77, 5.23], p = 0.16), but HRD carriers with wild-type BRCA had a significant advantage over non-HRD carriers on platinum-based NCT (OR = 3.64, 95% CI = [1.83, 7.21], p = 0.0002).

Conclusion:

HRD is an effective predictor of increased pCR rates in platinum-based NCT, especially in wild-type BRCA patients. Adding platinum to NCT for non-HRD carriers can increase the incidence of AEs but may not improve the therapeutic effect.
Comprehensive genome profiling by next generation sequencing of circulating tumor DNA in solid tumors: a single academic institution experience
Authors: Caputo Vincenza , De Falco Vincenzo , Ventriglia Anna , Famiglietti Vincenzo , Martinelli Erika , Morgillo Floriana , Martini Giulia , Corte Carminia Maria Della , Ciardiello Davide , Poliero Luca , De Vita Ferdinando , Orditura Michele , Fasano Morena , Franco Renato , Caraglia Michele , Avitabile Arianna , Scalamogna Roberto , Marchi Beatrice , Ciardiello Fortunato , Troiani Teresa , Napolitano Stefania
Published: May 2022

Background:

Recently, new evidence of the next-generation sequencing (NGS) liquid biopsy utility in clinical practice has been developed. This assay is emerging as a new promising tool to use as a noninvasive biomarker for cancer mutation profiling. Additional data supporting the clinical validity of cell free DNA (cfDNA) based testing is necessary to inform optimal use of these assays in the clinic.

Materials and methods:

A total of 398 cancer patients were analyzed by FoundationOne Liquid Analysis (F1LA), a genomic profiling assay and by standard NGS diagnostic ThermoFisher platform. The association between diagnostic technique was evaluated using a Poisson regression model. FoundationOne Liquid (F1L) and FoundationOne Liquid CDx (F1LCDx) detect 70 and 324 cancer-related genes alterations, respectively, including genomic signatures tumor fraction, blood tumor mutational burden (only for the 324 genes version), and microsatellite instability high status. Both assays used a single DNA extraction method to obtain cfDNA. The real-life clinical impact and feasibility of F1L and F1LCDx were evaluated across different solid tumors in our department.

Results:

Between 1 January 2019 and 28 February 2021, 398 samples of different tumor types from 398 patients were analyzed (overall success rate: 92%, in FoundationOne Liquid CDx Analysis success rate: 97%). Most frequent molecular alterations were TP53 (74), APC (40), DNMT3A (39), KRAS (23). The comprehensive clinical impact of F1LA compared with standard diagnostic was 64.7% versus 22.1% [risk ratio (RR) = 2.94; p < 0.001] and the potential clinical impact was 58.6% versus 11.0% (RR = 5.32; p < 0.001), respectively. Furthermore, some clinical cases were selected, in which F1LA detected actionable alterations offering an unexpected therapeutic choice.

Conclusions:

Although additional studies are needed to better select patients and setting, NGS F1LA is a useful, noninvasive, and repeatable assay to guide therapeutic choice in oncology. It provides a snapshot of cancer heterogeneity profile that could be incorporated in routinely clinical practice.
Guideline Development for Medical Device Technology: Issues for Consideration
Authors: Battelino Tadej , Brosius Frank , Ceriello Antonio , Cosentino Francesco , Green Jennifer , Kellerer Monika , Koob Susan , Kosiborod Mikhail , Lalic Nebojsa , Marx Nikolaus , Nedungadi T. Prashant , Rydén Lars , Rodbard Helena W. , Ji Linong , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng , Standl Eberhard , Parkin Christopher G. , Schnell Oliver
Published: May 2022

Advances in the development of innovative medical devices and telehealth technologies create the potential to improve the quality and efficiency of diabetes care through collecting, aggregating, and interpreting relevant health data in ways that facilitate more informed decisions among all stakeholder groups. Although many medical societies publish guidelines for utilizing these technologies in clinical practice, we believe that the methodologies used for the selection and grading of the evidence should be revised. In this article, we discuss the strengths and limitations of the various types of research commonly used for evidence selection and grading and present recommendations for modifying the process to more effectively address the rapid pace of device and technology innovation and new product development.
Elite Junior Australian Football Players With Impaired Wellness Are at Increased Injury Risk at High Loads
Authors: Lathlean Timothy J.H. , Newstead Stuart V. , Gastin Paul B.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Elite junior Australian football players experience high training loads across levels of competition and training. This, in conjunction with impaired wellness, can predispose athletes to injury.

Hypothesis:

Elite junior Australian football players exposed to high loads with poor wellness are more likely to be at risk of injury than those with improved wellness.

Study Design:

Longitudinal prospective cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Data were collected and analyzed from 280 players across the 2014 season. Internal load was measured via session rating of perceived exertion. Player wellness was reported according to ratings of sleep quality, fatigue, soreness, stress, and mood. Week- and month-based training load measures were calculated, representing a combination of absolute and relative load variables. Principal component analysis factor loadings, based on 17 load and wellness variables, were used to calculate summed variable covariates. Injury was defined as “any injury leading to a missed training session or competitive match.” Associations between covariates and injury risk (yes/no) were determined via logistic generalized estimating equations.

Results:

A significant interaction term between load and wellness on injury was found [odds ratio (OR) 0.76; 95% CI 0.62-0.92; P < 0.01), indicating that wellness acts as a “dimmer switch” of load on injury. Further, there was evidence of moderated mediation (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.57-0.87; P < 0.01). When wellness was low, injury risk started to increase substantially at a 1-week load of 3250 au.

Conclusions:

Subjective measures of training load are associated with injury risk through a nonlinear relationship. This relationship is further influenced by player wellness, which can amplify the risk of injury. There is evidence that higher stress is linked with injury and that soreness and sleep mediate any stress-injury relationship.

Clinical Relevance:

Coaching efforts to manage training load and player adaptive responses, including wellness, may reduce the risk of injury, with stress, soreness, and sleep particularly relevant at this level.
The Injustice–Efficacy Tradeoff: Counteracting Indirect Effects of Goal Proximity on Collective Action
Authors: Hartwich Lea , Radke Helena R. M. , Kutlaca Maja , Becker Julia C.
Published: May 2022

Based on dual-pathway models of collective action, this research examines how social movements’ proximity to their stated goal affects potential supporters’ willingness and motivations to engage. Across three experimental studies in two different contexts, and for members of both the disadvantaged ingroups and advantaged outgroups (total N = 1,102), we find consistent support for two counteracting indirect effects of goal distance on collective action. When movements are closer to their goals, potential supporters perceive less injustice, which reduces their willingness to engage in collective action for the movements’ cause via the emotion-focused pathway. At the same time, perceptions of political efficacy increase, bolstering engagement via the problem-focused pathway. We conclude that while goal proximity does not seem to affect overall intentions to engage in collective action, it does affect the motivational paths to it, which makes it a relevant factor to consider in both research and social justice contexts.
Exploring the effects of COVID-19 restrictions on wellbeing across different styles of lockdown
Authors: Ingram Joanne , Hand Christopher J. , Hijikata Yuko , Maciejewski Greg
Published: May 2022

Countries have instigated different restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, nationwide, strict “lockdown” in Scotland was enacted with breaches punishable by law, whereas restrictions in Japan allowed for travel and interaction, with citizens requested rather than required to conform. We explored the impact of these differential strategies on health behaviours and wellbeing. In February 2021, 138 Scottish and 139 Japanese participants reported their demographic information, pandemic-induced health behaviour-change (alcohol consumption, diet, perceived sleep quality, physical activity), negative mood, and perceived social isolation. Scottish participants’ health behaviours were characterised by greater change (typically negative), most likely due to greater lifestyle disruption, whereas Japanese participants’ behaviours were more-stable. Negative changes to health behaviours were typically associated with poorer mental wellbeing and isolation. Interestingly though, Japanese participants reported greater negative mood but not isolation despite the less-restrictive lockdown. Taken together, different lockdown styles led to different changes in health behaviours.
Survey-based identification of design requirements and constraints for a wearable tremor suppression device
Authors: Zhou Yue , Box Devin , Hardy Kenneth G , Jenkins Mary E , Garland Jayne , Naish Michael D , Trejos Ana Luisa
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Parkinsonian tremor has severely impacted the lives of 65% of individuals with Parkinson’s disease, and nearly 25% do not respond to traditional treatments. Although wearable tremor suppression devices (WTSDs) have become a promising alternative approach, this technology is still in the early stages of development, and no studies have reported the stakeholders’ opinions on this technology and their desired design requirements.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to affected Canadians and Canadian movement disorder specialists (MDS) to acquire information on demographics, the current state of treatments, opinions on the WTSDs, and the desired design requirements of future WTSDs.

Results

A total of 101 affected individuals and 24 MDS completed the survey. It was found that both groups are generally open to using WTSDs to manage tremor. The most important design requirement to end users is the adaptability to lifestyle, followed by weight and size, accurate motion, comfort, safety, quick response, and cost. Lastly, most of the participants (65%) think that the device should cost under $500.

Conclusions

The findings from this study can be used as guidelines for the development of future WTSDs, such that the future generations could be evaluated and accepted by the end users.
Video Assistant Referee in a Small-Nation Context: Intensified Mediatization
Authors: Frandsen Kirsten , Landgrebe Kirstine
Published: May 2022

Using the Danish Superliga as a case, this article explores how football’s implementation of a video assistant referee (VAR) instigates complex processes of change which imply not only a further decrease in football’s institutional autonomy, but also intensifies inequality. It is argued that the implementation has to be seen from the perspective of professional football’s historical relationship with broadcast television; however, implementation of VAR represents a qualitative shift in the digital age, in which football’s dependence on media reaches a new functional level. André Jansson’s critical conceptualization of mediatization as transactional, ritual, and functional dependence is used as a framework for exploring how values, roles, and practices are under transformation among players, coach/managers, and referees. The analysis illustrates how the small-nation context, existing national and international hegemonic structures, and inequalities in combination with media logic and economics play a significant role and influence ongoing renegotiations of values and practices among these key actors. It also shows how refereeing is becoming much more complex with VAR, moving the pressure to the new role as video assistant referee, creating dilemmas in the team of referees and changing the authority of the referee from an individual into a more collective matter.
“It Is Not the End of Parenting”: Extended Parenthood and Child Launching Experiences Among Middle-Aged Korean American Mothers
Authors: You Soo-Bin , Nesteruk Olena
Published: May 2022

This study explored how middle-aged Korean American mothers perceive their children’s transition to adulthood and make sense of their changing parenting experience. Guided by a phenomenological approach, the analysis of semi-structured interviews with first-generation Korean immigrant mothers ( N = 10) of young adult children revealed their culturally unique perceptions of children’s independence and parenting approach during child launching. Specifically, to the mothers, the current child launching period meant extended parenthood until a child’s marriage which was viewed as the completion of full launching. While welcoming their children’s independence and autonomy, they believed that their children still needed parental support due to prolonged education and financial instability. These mothers actively engaged in their children’s decision-making process representing their reluctance to fully allow their children’s autonomy and felt ambivalent with the uncertainty of their children’s independence. The study findings have implications for providing Korean immigrant families with useful assistance and support in practical settings.
Examining the Experiences of Racialized and Indigenous Graduate Students as Emerging Researchers
Authors: Park Augustine S. J. , Bahia Jasmeet
Published: May 2022

In this article, we explore the experiences of graduate students as researchers who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in the social sciences and humanities in Canada. This analysis is based on 22 semistructured qualitative interviews with BIPOC students and explores their experiences using critical race theory and an analysis of color-blind racism. The participants in our study narrate four dimensions of experience in relation to being researchers. (1) Supervision: Participants express positive relationships with supervisors who are intellectually open, engaged in critical scholarship, politically engaged, and who recognize the impact of larger forces on BIPOC students’ lives. (2) Funding: Participants describe unequal access to funding and to grant-writing skills development. (3) Self-tokenization: Some participants confront pressures to carry out voyeuristic, deficit-focused research on their own communities. (4) Responsibilities to community: Some participants want authentically to research their own communities, which entails additional responsibilities to avoid reproducing colonial and racist dynamics. Despite the ways in which racism and colonialism shape BIPOC students’ experiences as researchers, participants are clear that they are not victims of the university. Rather, they find meaning in knowledge creation and offer proactive recommendations on how to improve the experiences of BIPOC graduate student researchers.
Colorectal Cancer Screening within Colonoscopy Capacity Constraints: Can FIT-Based Programs Save More Lives by Trading off More Sensitive Test Cutoffs against Longer Screening Intervals?
Authors: McFerran Ethna , O’Mahony James F. , Naber Steffie , Sharp Linda , Zauber Ann G. , Lansdorp-Vogelaar Iris , Kee Frank
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention programs using fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) in screening rely on colonoscopy for secondary and surveillance testing. Colonoscopy capacity is an important constraint. Some European programs lack sufficient capacity to provide optimal screening intensity regarding age ranges, intervals, and FIT cutoffs. It is currently unclear how to optimize programs within colonoscopy capacity constraints. Design. Microsimulation modeling, using the MISCAN-Colon model, was used to determine if more effective CRC screening programs can be identified within constrained colonoscopy capacity. A total of 525 strategies were modeled and compared, varying 3 key screening parameters: screening intervals, age ranges, and FIT cutoffs, including previously unevaluated 4- and 5-year screening intervals (using a lifetime horizon and 100% adherence). Results were compared with the policy decisions taken in Ireland to provide CRC screening within available colonoscopy capacity. Outcomes estimated net costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), and required colonoscopies. The optimal strategies within finite colonoscopy capacity constraints were identified. Results. Combining a reduced FIT cutoff of 10 µg Hb/g, an extended screening interval of 4 y and an age range of 60–72 y requires 6% fewer colonoscopies, reduces net costs by 23% while preventing 15% more CRC deaths and saving 16% more QALYs relative to a strategy (FIT 40 µg Hb/g, 2-yearly, 60–70 year) approximating current policy. Conclusion. Previously overlooked longer screening intervals may optimize cancer prevention with finite colonoscopy capacity constraints. Changes could save lives, reduce costs, and relieve colonoscopy capacity pressures. These findings are relevant to CRC screening programs across Europe that employ FIT-based testing, which face colonoscopy capacity constraints.
A Sociopolitical Alternative for Dalits in Uttar Pradesh and Expectation From It
Authors: Nandan Aniket
Published: May 2022

In Indian electoral elections, Uttar Pradesh is one of those states that has witnessed a significant emergence of Dalit political awareness in past few decades. Yet in the current electoral climate, they have only been a passing cloud, which further necessitates an overhaul in their political leadership and style of politics. It is in this regard that a discussion on the alternatives for the Dalit politics becomes more important than ever. In such a discussion, one leader who cannot be overlooked is Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan’. Thus, this commentary aims to address the question, what should this alternative represent?
An Otolaryngologist’s Guide to Understanding the H‐index and How It Could Affect Your Future Career
Authors: Moffatt David C. , Shah Puja , Wright Alex E. , Zon Kenneth , Pine Harold S.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The h‐index is a measure of research output and contribution that shows strong correlation with academic promotion in medicine. The purpose of this article is to clearly explain how h‐index scores are calculated and how otolaryngologists can effectively and advantageously use these scores for their career development.

Data Sources

PubMed.

Review Methods

We performed an up‐to‐date PubMed literature review describing the design of the h‐index and how to use it effectively along with its role in academic medicine, including otolaryngology.

Conclusions

H‐index scores are used as a metric for scientific output that considers the number of publications and the number of times each is cited. Search engines can automatically calculate h‐index scores for one’s work. Studies also revealed significant positive correlations that the h‐index has from fellowship involvement, which could be beneficial for career advancement in academic medicine.

Implications for Practice

Aspiring academic otolaryngologists should create a research profile to link and calculate the h‐index for publications, submit to well‐read high‐impact journals for increased viewership and citations, and expand on foundational and personal research topics. Future studies should evaluate faculty and resident awareness of h‐indices in the otolaryngology department to see how we can further address any underlying barriers. Otolaryngologists with the knowledge and tools necessary to maximize h‐index scores and produce high‐quality research in modern‐day medicine not only provide potential advantages in career development but also bring significant contribution to the field of otolaryngology and patient care.
Why Should I Become an Intrapreneur? Introducing the Concept of Intrapreneurial Outcome Expectations
Authors: Ilonen Sanna , Hytönen Kaisa
Published: May 2022

This study increases the understanding of students’ beliefs concerning intrapreneurial behaviour and its consequences. Based on previous studies of intrapreneurship and entrepreneurial outcome expectations and qualitative data collected from university students, we aimed to conceptualise students’ intrapreneurial outcome expectations and expose the possible differences between entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial outcome expectations related to entrepreneurship education. The qualitative research material comprised 74 learning diaries of students participating in bachelor-level intrapreneurship courses. The qualitative research material was analysed according to a qualitative content analysis. Intrapreneurial outcome expectations respond to the question, ‘If I engage in intrapreneurship, what will happen?’ The findings revealed that students perceived positive and negative consequences of intrapreneurial outcome expectations at three levels: individual, organisational, and societal. The findings also revealed differences between intrapreneurial and entrepreneurial outcome expectations regarding the level at which the students handled the content. The study highlights the importance of levels of outcome expectations other than the individual level, which dominates general and entrepreneurship outcome expectations research. It demonstrates that intrapreneurial outcome expectations should be considered different from entrepreneurial outcome expectations and understood not only from the individual level, as the consequences of intrapreneurial behaviour influence people, organisations, and beyond.
Barriers and Recommendations From Parents in Rural Areas: Experiences With Individualized Education Programs
Authors: Smith Zoe R. , Krieg Dana Balsink
Published: May 2022

This study explored the experiences of Head Start parents who were becoming involved in their pre-school–age children’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Seven participants from the rural Midwest engaged in focus group ( n = 2) or interview ( n = 1) format discussions regarding barriers to involvement in the IEP process and recommendations to alleviate these barriers. Qualitative analysis with thematic coding was used to interpret the data. Results indicated that parents believed they lacked necessary information that could increase their advocacy for their children and reported the wording of the IEP was too difficult to understand. In addition, parents felt that their negative emotions barred them from being active members at IEP meetings. Parents noted that Head Start’s encouragement and positive parent–teacher communication helped alleviate some barriers but believed that a yearly class on IEPs and more frequent one-on-one meetings would help them become better advocates for their young children.
Developing the Knowledge and Mentoring Skills of Future Special Education Leaders
Authors: Ortogero Shawna P. , Barcarse Tierney O. , Ray Amber B.
Published: May 2022

To curb the negative impact that rural Hawaii’s qualified special education teacher (SET) shortage has on students with disabilities, a professional development (PD) course was developed to examine the effect the program had on mentoring beginning SETs. Course programming was aligned to SET preparation coursework, targeted at the ongoing PD needs of beginning rural SETs, in addition to being grounded in the literature on special education teacher retention and Tichy’s (1983) Technical, Political, and Cultural Dynamics Theory. Seven licensed educators and their mentees participated in the course. Data were collected using surveys, knowledge assessment, culminating reflections, and course evaluations. Participants were satisfied with the course and found mentoring and instructional practices beneficial. The course had a positive impact on the overall knowledge of participants. Nearly all mentees discussed that coaching helped them grow as a teacher and resulted in lessons where students were more successful. Implications for practice are discussed.
Sparse sliced inverse regression for high dimensional data analysis
Authors: Hilafu Haileab , Safo Sandra E.
Published: May 2022

Background

Dimension reduction and variable selection play a critical role in the analysis of contemporary high-dimensional data. The semi-parametric multi-index model often serves as a reasonable model for analysis of such high-dimensional data. The sliced inverse regression (SIR) method, which can be formulated as a generalized eigenvalue decomposition problem, offers a model-free estimation approach for the indices in the semi-parametric multi-index model. Obtaining sparse estimates of the eigenvectors that constitute the basis matrix that is used to construct the indices is desirable to facilitate variable selection, which in turn facilitates interpretability and model parsimony.

Results

To this end, we propose a group-Dantzig selector type formulation that induces row-sparsity to the sliced inverse regression dimension reduction vectors. Extensive simulation studies are carried out to assess the performance of the proposed method, and compare it with other state of the art methods in the literature.

Conclusion

The proposed method is shown to yield competitive estimation, prediction, and variable selection performance. Three real data applications, including a metabolomics depression study, are presented to demonstrate the method’s effectiveness in practice.
Evolution and dispersal of mitochondrial DNA haplogroup U5 in Northern Europe: insights from an unsupervised learning approach to phylogeography
Authors: Kristjansson Dana , Bohlin Jon , Nguyen Truc Trung , Jugessur Astanand , Schurr Theodore G.
Published: May 2022

Background

We combined an unsupervised learning methodology for analyzing mitogenome sequences with maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetics to make detailed inferences about the evolution and diversification of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroup U5, which appears at high frequencies in northern Europe.

Methods

Haplogroup U5 mitogenome sequences were gathered from GenBank. The hierarchal Bayesian Analysis of Population Structure (hierBAPS) method was used to generate groups of sequences that were then projected onto a rooted maximum likelihood (ML) phylogenetic tree to visualize the pattern of clustering. The haplogroup statuses of the individual sequences were assessed using Haplogrep2.

Results

A total of 23 hierBAPS groups were identified, all of which corresponded to subclades defined in Phylotree, v.17. The hierBAPS groups projected onto the ML phylogeny accurately clustered all haplotypes belonging to a specific haplogroup in accordance with Haplogrep2. By incorporating the geographic source of each sequence and subclade age estimates into this framework, inferences about the diversification of U5 mtDNAs were made. Haplogroup U5 has been present in northern Europe since the Mesolithic, and spread in both eastern and western directions, undergoing significant diversification within Scandinavia. A review of historical and archeological evidence attests to some of the population interactions contributing to this pattern.

Conclusions

The hierBAPS algorithm accurately grouped mitogenome sequences into subclades in a phylogenetically robust manner. This analysis provided new insights into the phylogeographic structure of haplogroup U5 diversity in northern Europe, revealing a detailed perspective on the diversity of subclades in this region and their distribution in Scandinavian populations.
Phenotype and genetic determination of resistance to common disinfectants among biofilm-producing and non-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains from clinical specimens in Iran
Authors: Bakht Mehdi , Alizadeh Safar Ali , Rahimi Sara , Kazemzadeh Anari Raana , Rostamani Mohammad , Javadi Amir , Peymani Amir , Marashi Seyed Mahmoud Amin , Nikkhahi Farhad
Published: May 2022

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogen in Hospitalized patients, and its various resistance mechanisms contribute to patient morbidity and mortality. The main aims of the present study were to assess the susceptibility of biofilm-producing and non-producing P. aeruginosa isolates to the five commonly used Hospital disinfectants, to evaluate the synergistic effect of selected disinfectants and Ethylene-diamine-tetra acetic acid (EDTA), and the effect of exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of Sodium hypochlorite on antimicrobial susceptibility test.

Results

The results showed that sodium hypochlorite 5% and Ethanol 70% were the most and least effective disinfectants against P. aeruginosa, respectively. The addition of EDTA significantly increased the effectiveness of the selected disinfectants. The changes in the antibiotic-resistance profiles after exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of disinfectants were observed for different classes of antibiotics (Carbapenems, Aminoglycosides, Cephalosporins, Fluoroquinolones). As well as near the all isolates harbored efflux pump genes and 117 (97.5%) of isolates produced biofilm.

Conclusion

In the current study, the mixture of disinfectant and EDTA were the most suitable selection to disinfect Hospital surfaces and instruments. Also, it was clear that exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of Sodium hypochlorite results in resistance to some antibiotics in P. aeruginosa species. Strong and intermediate biofilm formers belonged to MDR/XDR strains. Future studies should include more complex microbial communities residing in the Hospitals, and more disinfectants use in Hospitals.