bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building the Settler Colonial Order: Police (In)Actions in Response to Violence Against Indigenous Women in “Canada”
Authors: Flores Jerry , Román Alfaro Andrea
Published: April 2023

In this article we focus on missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people in “Canada.” We theorize narratives that police employ to respond to this violence. Using a broad data sample of testimonies across “Canada,” this article contributes to understanding how police (in)actions make sense of, justify, and dismiss violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. We draw from 48 in-depth semi-structured interviews with Indigenous peoples in Toronto and other “Canadian” cities and 219 testimonies from the Canadian National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (NIMMIWG). The analysis finds that police repeatedly use similar frames (topics), styles (linguistic and behavioral strategies), and storylines (narratives) to respond to violence against Indigenous peoples. While framing Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people as deviants helps police make sense of and explain violence against them, the use of verbal and behavioral strategies (indifference, callousness, and lack of information) and storylines (“they were [insert pathologizing frame]” and “there’s nothing we can do”) allows police to dismiss and justify acts of violence. We argue that the frames, styles, and storylines employed by police perpetuate violence. Police (in)actions are fundamental to achieving settler colonialism’s ideological and material dimensions.
A novel method for generating random fiber distributions for fiber-reinforced materials
Authors: Zeng Lang , Li Yibo , Liu Jinsong
Published: April 2023

A new algorithm to generate Representative Volume Elements (RVEs) of random fiber distributions is presented in this study. The Random Sequence Expansion (RSE)_stirring algorithm generates the initial fiber random distribution. Subsequently, by stirring the generated fibers and highlighting the influence of fiber short-range spacing interactions, the method facilitates the capture of the real fiber distribution. To verify the soundness of the proposed algorithm, the RVE model, generated by the RSE_stirring algorithm, was analyzed using four statistical functions. The model was then statistically compared with the experimentally obtained real fiber distributions in a Completely Spatial Random (CSR) pattern. In this study, the equivalent modulus of the composite was also predicted using RVE and compared with the results predicted by other algorithms. The experimental and the predicted results showed a strong similarity.
Nationally Representative Evidence on the Association Between Preschool and School-Based Parental Involvement in Elementary School
Authors: Little Michael , Gragson Austin
Published: April 2023

Increasing school-based parental involvement—which has links to improved student outcomes like academic achievement—is a core area of focus in many preschool programs. Yet, little research to date has examined what the association is between attending preschool and school-based parental involvement in early elementary school. This study addresses this gap by drawing on nationally-representative data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten Class of 2010 to 2011 ( N = 18,174) to examine the association between preschool attendance and measures of school-based parental involvement in early elementary school. The findings reveal consistent positive associations between preschool attendance and school-based parental involvement. There is little evidence of variation in associations based on the type (e.g., private and Head Start) or location (e.g., center-based and school-based) of the preschool program.
Gas market integration in South America: The role of Argentine gas to reduce the regional exposure to liquefied natural gas imports
Authors: Vilela Pinto dos Anjos Henrique , Szklo Alexandre , Chávez Rodríguez Mauro Francisco
Published: April 2023

After spending several years as net importer of natural gas, the development of unconventional gas reserves in Argentina can revert this scenario and change the dynamics of the Southern Cone regional gas integration. To assess the role of Argentine gas, this study utilised the TIMES-ConoSur optimisation model, which represents the regional integration of the gas and electricity systems. To improve the level of detail of the results, updates and modifications in different settings were made in the first version of the model. In addition, four scenarios were tested with two levels of LNG (liquefied natural gas) prices and including or not the interconnection between Argentina gas network and Brazil integrated network. The role of the Argentine gas was analysed based on its production potential and the export potential to the neighbour countries. Findings indicated that the development of the Argentine gas reserves can be a game changer, as it can affect directly the regional dynamics and the gas supply of the neighbour countries. The main future dynamics of the other countries in the region were also assessed, such as the role of Bolivian gas, the challenges to develop pre-salt gas and how will be the future of LNG in the region.
Holocene chemostratigraphy of spring sediments in Range Creek Canyon, Utah, USA
Authors: Ward Danielle , Brunelle Andrea , Bowen Brenda B
Published: April 2023

This study builds off the paleoclimatic reconstruction created by Hart et al. that used a multiproxy study to examine the role of moisture in the exodus of the Fremont from Range Creek Canyon in the 12th century. For this research, elemental ratios, weathering indices, and pollen data from two wetland spring sediment cores were used to compare with the existing Hart et al. paleoclimatic reconstruction (Objective 1). Elemental ratios and pollen data proved to be effective proxies for precipitation fluctuation, with the ratio of Pinus to Juniperus pollen representing effective moisture and increasing with the intensity of chemical weathering. Elemental data were additionally used to identify crypto tephra in the cores to validate Range Creek Canyon’s existing chronology (Objective 2). The XRF analysis of the sediment cores constrained the chronology of environmental change in the canyon by identifying the elemental signature of the Mazama eruption (7627 ± 150 cal. year BP). The concentration of Al, Y, and Ti were 50 times higher in this layer than elsewhere in the core, indicating a sudden depositional event, such as a volcanic eruption. Based on the multiproxy data and confirmed chronology, the Fremont entered the canyon during a period of elevated precipitation lasting until 600 AD. Precipitation levels remained steady until 1200 AD, after which precipitation levels decreased, causing drought conditions that coincide with the Fremont’s departure from Range Creek Canyon.
Preboreal oscillation in the light of multiproxy analyses—Early Holocene in Lake Jelonek (North Poland)
Authors: Kramkowski Mateusz , Filbrand-Czaja Anna , Zawisza Edyta , Rzodkiewicz Monika , Kotrys Bartosz , Mirosław-Grabowska Joanna , Błaszkiewicz Mirosław , Szewczyk Krzysztof , Słowiński Michał
Published: April 2023

In this work, we studied the course of climatic fluctuations at the beginning of the Preboreal period using multiproxy analyses (Chironomidae, pollen, diatoms, Cladocera, stable isotopes, macrocharcoal, microlithofacial) combined with varve chronology of sediments. The results showed a decrease in the mean July temperature and stronger continentalism followed by climate wetting at the start of the Preboreal period. This was reflected in the remodeling of the vegetation cover from birch forests to more open spaces with grass vegetation dominance, as well as that of the species composition of Cladocera and diatoms, and the high variability of isotopic composition. In addition, the results showed the impact of local conditions (fires and relict permafrost) on the amplification of environmental responses due to climate cooling. The environmental transformations presented here correspond temporally to the changes that are well documented in other parts of Europe as the Preboreal Oscillation.
Serving red rice beer to the ancestors ca. 9000 years ago at Xiaohuangshan early Neolithic site in south China
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Haiming , Sun Hanlong , Chen Xingcan
Published: April 2023

Microfossil analyses of three early Neolithic pottery vessels from Xiaohuangshan, a middle Shangshan culture site in Zhejiang (ca. 9000–8500 cal. BP), revealed the earliest evidence of red rice beer brewing in China. This fermentation method involved the preparation of qu starter with Monascus mold, rice, and probably herbs; the brewing ingredients may have included mainly rice, together with Job’s tears, acorn, and lily bulb; and globular jars were used as fermenters. The dregs of the red beer may have been used for cooking with solid foods and served with them on plates at feasts. The globular jar analyzed was a part of the grave goods assemblage, suggesting that alcoholic beverages were sacrificial offerings to the dead ancestors. This mortuary practice, which involved rice-based fermented beverages, emerged in the early stage of rice cultivation under the wet-warm climatic conditions during the early Holocene, shedding new light on the driving forces of the origin and dispersal of rice domestication in China.
Mediation Role of Organisational Supportive Culture in the Relationship Between Human Resources Management Practices and Patient Satisfaction: A Case Study of Rizgary Teaching and Referral Hospital in Erbil-Iraq
Authors: Ahmed Nyaz S. , Bein Murad A.
Published: April 2023

Objective

The main purpose of this research is to examine a research model that explores the mediation role of the organisational supportive culture in the relationship between human resources management practices (HRMP) and patient satisfaction: a case study of Rizgary teaching and referral hospital in Erbil-Iraq.

Methodology

A survey instrument was considered the main data collection tool. The survey participants were medical staff and patients who contributed to the research by replying to the questionnaire indicators. Partial least squares—structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used for analysing the empirical data. The research findings revealed that human resources management practices positively related to supportive culture, results also demonstrated that supportive culture in surveyed hospitals positively and significantly impacts patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

The results displayed that human resources management practices directly affect patient satisfaction. Furthermore, supportive culture partially mediated the relationship between human resources management practices and patient satisfaction, due to human resources management practices, directly and indirectly, affecting patient satisfaction.

Contribution

The current research essentially contributes to the literature by indicating that human resources management practices within hospitals, directly and indirectly, enhance patient satisfaction through healthcare services accuracy and meet the expectations of patients, in addition, the results showed that supportive culture partially mediates the relationship between human resources management practices and patient satisfaction.
Infrastructure and Software Skills in the Expanded Program on Immunization at Commune Health Centers in Central Vietnam: A Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Nguyen Nguyen Khoi , Long Phan Thanh , Thang Tran Binh , Duong Le Dinh , Tu Nguyen Minh , Thu Dang Thi Anh , Gia Nguyen Thanh
Published: April 2023

The application of the National Immunization Information System at primary health facilities is crucial in improving the quality of medical examinations as well as collecting and reporting immunization information. This study aimed to describe the infrastructure for the Expanded Program on Immunization’s software at communes/wards/towns health centers (CHCs) of a province in central Vietnam and to evaluate the capacity of using immunization software of health officers. Another objective was to identify factors associated with skills in using the software of participants. A cross-sectional study combined with qualitative and quantitative methods was conducted, including 237 health officers from 50% (76/152) CHCs of Thua Thien Hue Province. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a developed questionnaire and observation via checklists. The results showed that most CHCs had sufficient infrastructure for the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). Health officers proficient in using the National Immunization Information System accounted for 74.7%. The CHCs should be equipped with more devices serving the immunization information management system and regularly maintain the equipment and the internet connection. Training health officers at CHCs in the data management of the vaccination system and record tracking ability using the National Immunization Information System is needed.
Could negative outcomes of psychotherapies be contributing to the lack of an overall population effect from the Australian Better Access initiative?
Authors: Allison Stephen , Looi Jeffrey CL , Kisely Steve , Bastiampillai Tarun
Published: April 2023

Objective

We examine deterioration in psychotherapies, as reported in the recent evaluation of the Australian Medicare Better Access initiative.

Conclusion

A focus on patients who experience poor clinical outcomes helps programs minimise harm and improve quality of care. The Better Access evaluation found the mental health of 20–40% of patients deteriorated. This may partly explain why population distress and suicide rates were not reduced by the introduction of the Better Access initiative. Deterioration was more likely for milder conditions, and less likely for severe conditions, which also improved the most. Using severity as a criterion for priority setting and resource allocation may minimise patient risk and maximise benefits. Patients with severe conditions may require considerably more sessions than the current average for Better Access psychotherapies.
Coexisting Infantile Hepatic Hemangioma and Hepatoblastoma in a Neonate: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Shu-Hong , Chen Guang-Yong , Wei Lin
Published: April 2023

Infantile hepatic hemangioma and hepatoblastoma are the most common benign and malignant tumors of the liver in the neonatal and early childhood periods, respectively. However, the simultaneous occurrence of these 2 tumors in the same liver lesion is very rare. We report a case of a newborn infant diagnosed with a liver mass by ultrasound examination 4 days after birth. Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was elevated for his age (32,881.7 ng/mL). The liver mass was resected. Macroscopically, an externally protruding mass measuring 6 × 4 × 3.5 cm was identified. Microscopically, we observed the coexistence of infantile hepatic hemangioma and epithelial hepatoblastoma components within the tumor. The infantile hepatic hemangioma component was composed of multiple small vascular channels lined by endothelial cells. In the hepatoblastoma component, tumor cells were arranged in a 2- to 3-cell-thick trabecular formation. Immunohistochemistry indicated that the tumor cells in the infantile hepatic hemangioma component expressed CD34, CD31, FLI1, and ERG, and those in the hepatoblastoma component expressed hepatocyte, keratin AE1/AE3 and keratin 8, glypican 3, glutamine synthetase, and AFP. Pathological examination confirmed the presence of an infantile hepatic hemangioma combined with epithelial hepatoblastoma (fetal type). The boy did not undergo chemotherapy after the operation. Regular follow-up through serum AFP levels and liver ultrasound for 16 months to date show that the serum AFP levels decreased continuously to normal levels, with no signs of tumor recurrence or metastasis. The coexistence of infantile hepatic hemangioma and hepatoblastoma is rare. Hepatoblastoma should be considered in neonates with liver tumors and elevated AFP.
Development of a Nomogram That Predicts the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Patients With Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Zeng Yuanyuan , Zhao Jing , Zhang Jingfang , Yao Tingting , Weng Jieqiong , Yuan Mengfei , Shen Xiaoxu
Published: April 2023

Background:

Hyperlipidemia is one of the independent risk factors for the onset of coronary heart disease (CHD), and our aim is to construct a coronary risk prediction model for patients with hyperlipidemia based on carotid ultrasound in combination with other risk factors.

Methods:

The nomogram risk prediction model is based on a retrospective study on 820 patients with hyperlipidemia. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability of the nomogram were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves. The results were validated using bootstrap resampling and a prospective study on 39 patients with hyperlipidemia accepted at consenting institutions from 2021 to 2022.

Result:

In the modeling cohort, 820 patients were included. A total of 33 variables were included in univariate logistic regression. On multivariate analysis of the modeling cohort, independent factors for survival were sex, age, hypertension, plaque score, LVEF, PLT, and HbAlc, which were all selected into the nomogram. The calibration curve for probability of survival showed good agreement between prediction by nomogram and actual observation. The area under the curve (AUC) of the nomogram model was 0.881 (95% CI 0.858∼0.905), with a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 81.7%. In the validation cohort, the AUC was 0.75, 95% CI (0.602∼0.906). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy of this model were 54.16%, 80%, 81.25%, 52.17% and 64.1%. This model showed a good fitting and calibration and positive net benefits in decision curve analysis.

Conclusion:

A nomogram model for CHD risk in patients with hyperlipidemia was developed and validated using 7 predictors, which may have potential application value in clinical risk assessment, decision-making, and individualized treatment associated with CHD.
Efficacy and safety of adapalene gel as a reactive treatment for cetuximab-induced skin toxicity in recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A historical cohort comparison study
Authors: Uozumi Shinya , Enokida Tomohiro , Suzuki Shinya , Nishizawa Aya , Kamata Hayato , Okano Tomoka , Kawasaki Toshikatsu , Fujisawa Takao , Ueda Yuri , Okano Susumu , Tahara Makoto , Yamaguchi Masakazu
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Despite the common occurrence of cetuximab (Cmab)-induced skin toxicity, management strategies are not well established. The traditional mainstay method consists of topical steroids, which, if used excessively, may give rise to other concerns. Alternatively, adapalene can activate epidermal growth factor receptor pathways to potentially alleviate these toxicities.

Methods

We prospectively studied 31 patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M SCCHN) who were eligible to use adapalene gel as a reactive treatment for topical steroid-refractory skin toxicity. For comparison, we retrospectively reviewed 99 patients with R/M SCCHN (historical control cohort) whose skin toxicity was mainly treated with topical steroids. We compared the frequency and severity of Cmab-induced skin toxicity, Cmab therapy status (e.g., dose modification), side effects caused by topical steroids and adapalene gel itself, and other medical interventions.

Results

Adapalene gel was used by eight patients (25.8%) in the prospective cohort. Patients in the historical control cohort more frequently required escalation of topical steroid potency (34.3% vs. 12.9%, p = 0.022). Although there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of grade ≥3 facial skin rash and paronychia between the two cohorts, the prospective cohort showed a significantly shorter time to complete recovery from grade 2/3 paronychia (16 vs. 47 days, p = 0.017). Further, while no skin infections were observed in the prospective cohort, 13 patients in the historical control cohort developed skin infections, especially periungual infection (0% vs. 13.1%, p = 0.024). In addition, no patients in the prospective cohort received a dose reduction of Cmab due to skin toxicities, compared to 20 patients in the historical control cohort (0% vs. 20.2%, p = 0.003). No apparent adapalene gel-related side effects were observed.

Conclusions

Adapalene gel may be an effective management option for topical steroid-refractory Cmab-induced skin toxicities and could improve compliance with Cmab therapy.
Unplanned Purchases of Luxury Goods and Experiences
Authors: Hwang YooHee , Shin Minjung , (Sam) Kim Seongseop
Published: April 2023

Unplanned purchases, such as same-day bookings for hotel stays, are an emerging trend. However, few studies have examined unplanned purchases, particularly luxury hospitality and tourism purchases. This study compares consumers’ unplanned purchases of luxury goods and experiences. Four studies of luxury consumers in Hong Kong and the United States show that unplanned purchases of luxury experiences (vs. luxury goods) increase positive emotions and that the underlying mechanism is escapism. This study also shows that the price of luxury experiences enhances escapism whereas the price of luxury goods does not. This study contributes to the literature by challenging the universally negative view of unplanned luxury purchases. Luxury marketers should appeal to consumers’ sense of escapism to induce unplanned purchases of luxury experiences. Further, luxury marketers should maintain the monetary exclusivity of luxury experiences.
Novel pathogenic TGFBR1 variant identified in an adult with acquired retinal arterial macroaneurysm in loeys-dietz syndrome
Authors: Lu Yao , Ma Zhizhong
Published: April 2023

Background

Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an autosomal dominant disorder of the connective tissue that has phenotypic overlap with Marfan syndrome，but the aortic root dissections can be more aggressive and ocular findings in LDS may be very different than Marfan syndrome.

Methods

Review of one case of LDS with novel retinal findings.

Results

A 30-year-old female with LDS was found to have retinal arterial macroaneurism (RAM) in the left eye. Local laser photocoatulation and intravitreal anti-VEGF was applied but exudative retinal detachment developed soon after that. Transscleral diode photocoagulation was then performed and subretinal fluid was resolved.

Conclusion

RAM is a unique finding of LDS related to a novel mutation of TGFBR1.
Respecting diverse journeys on many roads: First Peoples of North America can guide us on our path toward precision home visiting
Authors: Martin Lisa , Ingalls Allison , Barlow Allison , Kushman Elizabeth , Leonard Amanda , Russette Hellen , Haroz Emily E
Published: April 2023

Translation challenges persist among early childhood evidence-based home visiting programs. There is a need for a significant shift in the field to overcome the constraints of standardized home visiting interventions. A precision framework has been identified as a method to understand what is needed to address the unique needs of families. We argue that Indigenous experiences implementing home visiting programs overlap with precision home visiting because of the necessity to precisely tailor one-size-fits-all approaches to testing home visitation protocols that do not work for or were never tested in Indigenous communities. Indigenous values, ways of knowing, and worldviews resonate with precision approaches. We provide a concrete example of how these values guided the first pilot implementation study of a precision approach to home visiting called Precision Family Spirit. The process of designing Precision Family Spirit, coupled with considerations of Indigenous values, has much to teach about the need for precision home visiting.
Genomic Evidence of Multiple Introductions of SARS-CoV-2 in Mauritania
Authors: Abdelmalick Abdelmalick , Sehli Sofia , Idrissi Azami Abdellah , Habib Nihal , Al Idrissi Najib , Belyamani Lahcen , Houmeida Ahmed , Ghazal Hassan
Published: April 2023

The rapid and global spread of the novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has raised serious public health concerns, including in Mauritania. We sequenced and analyzed the entire genome of 13 SARS-CoV-2 virus strains isolated from polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive symptomatic patients sampled from March 3 to May 31, 2021 to better understand SARS-CoV-2 introduction, propagation, and evolution in Mauritania. A phylogenetic tree using available data from the EpiCoV GISAID database and a variant network with non-Mauritanian sequences were constructed. Variant analysis of the 13 Mauritanian SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences indicated an average mutational percentage of 0.39, which is similar to that in other countries. Phylogenetic analysis revealed multiple spatiotemporal introductions, mainly from Europe (France, Belgium) and Africa (Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire), which also provided evidence of early community transmission. A total of 2 unique mutations, namely, NSP6_Q208K and NSP15_S273T, were detected in the NSP6 and NSP15 genes, respectively, confirming the aforementioned introduction of SARS-CoV-2 in Mauritania. These findings highlight the relevance of continuous genomic monitoring strategies for understanding virus transmission dynamics and acquiring knowledge to address forthcoming sources of infection in Africa.
Bioinformatic Evaluation of Features on Cis-regulatory Elements at 6q25.1
Authors: Sreekar N , Shrestha Smeeta
Published: April 2023

Eukaryotic non-coding regulatory features contribute significantly to cellular plasticity which on aberration leads to cellular malignancy. Enhancers are cis-regulatory elements that contribute to the development of resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer leading to poor clinical outcome. ER is vital for therapeutic targets in ER-positive breast cancer. Here, we review and report the different regulatory features present on ER with the objective to delineate potential mechanisms which may contribute to development of resistance. The UCSC Genome Browser, data mining, and bioinformatics tools were used to review enhancers, transcription factors (TFs), histone marks, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and variants residing in the non-coding region of the ER gene. We report 7 enhancers, 3 of which were rich in TF-binding sites and histone marks in a cell line-specific manner. Furthermore, some enhancers contain estrogen resistance variants and sites for lncRNA. Our review speculates putative models suggesting potential aberrations in gene regulation and expression if these regulatory landscapes and assemblies are altered. This review gives an interesting perspective in designing integrated in vitro studies including non-coding elements to study development of endocrine resistance in ER-positive breast cancer.
Food Hygiene Practices and Associated Factors Among Street Food Vendors in Urban Areas of Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Negassa Belay , Anbese Adane Tesfaye , Worku Girma , Areba Abriham Shiferaw , Seboka Binyam Tariku , Debela Berhanu Gidisa , Kanno Girum Gebremeskel , Soboksa Negasa Eshete
Published: April 2023

Background:

Street food is expanding all around Ethiopia. Street vendors have become commonplace near schools, hospitals and bus stations. Because street vended food is sold in unsanitary surroundings near streets, it can be contaminated with variety of pathogens, exposing consumers to foodborne illnesses. There haven’t been enough studies on Ethiopian street food, and little is known about how hygienic these foods are. The local authorities don’t even have a regulatory system to ensure food safety for street food vendors. Thus, this study aimed to assess food hygiene practices among street food vendors and associated factors.

Methods:

Community-based cross-sectional analytical study design was conducted from June, 2021 to July, 2021 including 402 respondents. Structured questionnaire and observational checklists were used for assessing food hygiene practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistics (version 25.0). Binary logistic regression analyses were used to check association of covariates with food hygiene practices. Adjusted odds ratio, and P-value less than 0.05 at 95% confidence interval were used to report significant association.

Results:

Out of 402, 390 individuals responded. About 123 (31.5%) (95% CI: 27.2-36.4) of vendors had good food hygiene practices. Being female (AOR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.09-0.27), age (19-25 years (AOR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.11-0.81) and 26 to 35 years (AOR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.08-0.74), marital status (being married (AOR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.29-0.93), educational status (college and above (AOR = 3.42; 95% CI: 1.35-8.62), monthly income (1001-2000 Ethiopian Birr (AOR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.19-0.68), being inspected (AOR = 13.15; 95% CI: 2.76-62.66) and lack of water at vending site (AOR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.17-0.97) were factors significantly associated with food hygiene practices of street vendors.

Conclusion:

Few street food vendors who adhered to good food hygiene were present. Significant variables of food hygiene behaviors included gender, age, marital status, education level, monthly income, inspection frequency, and the availability of water at vending sites. The vendors’ food hygiene practices needed to be improved, which necessitated continual assistance, frequent inspections, and public awareness campaign.
Determinants of Trachomatous Inflammation-Follicular Among Children Aged 1 to 9 Years Old in a Rural Area of Gozamn District, Northwestern Ethiopia: A Matched Case-Control Study
Authors: Adane Balew , Malede Asmamaw , Sewunet Birhanu , Kumlachew Lake , Moges Mekonnen , Woretaw Lebasie , Temesgen Tegegn , Bewket Yenewa , Gete Menberu , Yirdaw Getasew , Ayele Agernesh , Adane Metadel
Published: April 2023

Background:

Approximately 1.9 million people worldwide are blind or visually impaired due to trachoma, and trachoma remains endemic in 44 countries. Amhara in Ethiopia has the highest burden of trachoma in the world. A key indicator of whether active trachoma requires public health intervention is the incidence of trachomatous inflammation-follicular in children aged 1 to 9 years. However, limited study has been conducted on the determinants in rural communities. This study therefore aimed to fill this gap by identifying determinants in the Gozamn district of northwestern Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based case-control study was carried out between March 15 and April 30, 2021. Five or more follicles on the epitaxial conjunctivae that are larger than 0.5 mm were considered a case. Controls were free of any sign of trachoma. A semi-structured questionnaire and an observational checklist were used to gather the data, and STATA version 14 was used for the analysis. Using a 95% confidence interval, both bivariable and multivariable conditional logistic regression was performed.

Results:

A total of 726 mothers/caregivers participated in this study, with a participation rate of 98.4%. Children from poor families (mAOR = 4.68; CI: 2.80-6.21), households where the water source is far from home (>30 minutes) (mAOR = 4.91; KI: 1.37-12.56), mean daily water consumption (<20 l/c/d) (mAOR = 4.42; CI:1.71-11.39), face washing frequency less than once a day (mAOR = 10.64; CI: 2.58-18.84), cloth washing frequency once a month or less (mAOR = 9.18; CI: 2.20-18.62), and mothers or caregivers with poor knowledge of active trachoma (mAOR = 3.88; CI: 1.47-10.22) were determinants of trachomatous inflammation-follicular.

Conclusions:

We conclude that infrequent faces and clothes washing; unavailability of water, children in poor families, and poor knowledge of mothers/caregivers were risk factors. Health education initiatives about active trachoma, its prevention, and control methods focusing on personal hygiene are so required.
Disordered Eating and Body Image Concerns in Young Adult Women With Scoliosis
Authors: Limbers Christine A , Baskin Amy , Cohen L Adelyn
Published: April 2023

Background:

Researchers have called for more investigation into disordered eating behaviors in females with scoliosis.

Objective:

The objective of the current study was to assess the associations between body image concerns, disease-specific indicators of scoliosis (ie, age of diagnosis, having undergone bracing treatment, being told by a physician your scoliosis required surgery, having a spinal fusion), quality of life, and disordered eating in a sample of young adult women diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis during adolescence.

Design:

This study was cross-sectional in design.

Methods:

Participants were 177 young adult women ages 18 to 30 years diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis by a physician who completed questionnaires online.

Results:

Undergoing bracing treatment ( r = −.440; P < .001), greater age at scoliosis diagnosis ( r = .563; P < .001), being told scoliosis required surgery ( r = −.196; P < .050), annual income ( r = .306; P < .001), level of education ( r = .228; P < .010), and race/ethnicity ( r = −.213; P < .050) were associated with the EDE-Q Global Score. The Body Shape Questionnaire Total Score and EDE-Q Global Score ( r = .848; P < .001) and EDE-Q Weight Concern Score ( r = .813; P < .001) were associated. The strongest correlations between the EDE-Q and the SRS-22-Revised Subscales were generally evidenced on the SRS-22-Revised Mental Health Subscale ( rs ranged from −.200 to −.371; P < .001). After controlling for annual income, highest level of education, undergoing bracing treatment, and age of scoliosis diagnosis, the Body Shape Questionnaire Total Score was significantly correlated with the EDE-Q Eating Concern Score (standardized beta coefficient = .618; P < .001).

Conclusions:

These findings underscore the importance of assessing body image concerns in young adult women with scoliosis experiencing disordered eating as this information may provide valuable information relevant to treatment planning.
Public note-taking on a digital platform as a workplace practice
Authors: Salomaa Elina , Lehtinen Esa
Published: April 2023

Unlike traditional note-taking with pen and paper, in which the note-taking process is only partially accessible to the co-participants, note-taking in the digitalized workplace may be done publicly, so that both the content of notes and the process of writing them are observable to the co-participants. Using multimodally oriented conversation analysis, this study focused on public note-taking in interaction sequences where the facilitator of a workplace project records the results of a workshop discussion on a digital platform. The analysis revealed that while the facilitator was entitled to decide which portions of talk are recorded, the affordances of digital technology, its publicness in particular, enabled the co-participants to monitor the writing process, possibly leading to the editing of notes. The results show that even when note-taking is publicly performed, it is oriented to as an informal form of writing.
Corpus-based insights into multimodality and genre in primary school science diagrams
Authors: Hiippala Tuomo
Published: April 2023

This article presents a data-driven analysis of multimodal genre in a corpus of primary school science diagrams that contains multiple layers of cross-referenced annotations for multimodal discourse structure. The aim is to identify diagram genres in the corpus and describe their multimodal characteristics. To do so, information about expressive resources used in the diagrams and the discourse relations between them is extracted from the corpus, and computer vision is used to approximate the visual appearance of the diagrams. The article also presents a new method for quantifying information about the use of layout space. The resulting description of multimodal discourse structure is processed using UMAP, an unsupervised machine-learning algorithm, in order to identify diagrams that exhibit similar structural characteristics. The analysis allows the identification and characterization of four diagram genres in the corpus, which adopt different rhetorical strategies in combining expressive resources into discourse structures. The analysis also reveals that layout plays a major role in shaping the genre space, which can be further refined using information about the discourse structure. Overall, the results suggest that computational methods can be used to characterize multimodal genre from a bottom-up perspective using low-level information about expressive resources and layout.
‘Now I Have Dreams in Place of the Nightmares’: An Updated Systematic Review of Post-Traumatic Growth Among Refugee Populations
Authors: Sultani Grace , Heinsch Milena , Wilson Jessica , Pallas Phillip , Tickner Campbell , Kay-Lambkin Frances
Published: April 2023

Trauma exposure places refugees at serious risk of developing mental health difficulties. However, research also recognizes that refugees can respond to trauma with psychological development and growth, commonly referred to as post-traumatic growth (PTG). An updated systematic review was conducted to investigate PTG across different refugee populations, including the processes that mediate this phenomenon, and the use of therapy in promoting PTG. A systematic search of CINAHL Complete, Proquest 5000, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed to identify studies exploring PTG in refugee populations, published between June 2013 and November 2021. In all, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. Quantitative results reveal a positive correlation between PTG and religious commitment and coping, and the effectiveness of narrative and community-based interventions in facilitating PTG. Qualitative results facilitate insight into the complex ways refugees find meaning and strength after trauma through religion, comparison-based thinking, helping others, and storytelling. Findings highlight the need for future research and interventions to recognize the distinct PTG experiences of different refugee populations.
Considerations of American Democracy, Feeling Like a Loser, and Support for Changing the Rules
Authors: Donovan Todd , Tolbert Caroline , Harper Samuel
Published: April 2023

We test how perceptions of feeling like a loser in American politics may condition support for changes to how elections are conducted. We report a survey experiment that sheds some light on why people may feel like an electoral loser, then use this measure of losing to predict support for a range of proposals to change elections. The experiment prompted people to consider if they were satisfied with how democracy works and to think about the design and structure of American government. Respondents were then asked if they felt like they were on the winning or losing ‘side’ of politics. The prompt was associated with higher rates of respondents reporting they felt like they were on the losing side. Non-experimental estimates of support for a range of proposed changes to elections find a substantial relationship between this form of feeling like a loser, and supporting changing how elections are conducted. This relationship holds with controls for partisanship and other factors. One implication of this is that the more that some Americans are prompted to think about their government and democracy, the more likely they support changing how it works.
The “pipe-anchor” technique: A method for intra-aneurysmal loop reduction using a partially unsheathed pipeline stent
Authors: Doron Omer , Vranic Justin , Regenhardt Robert , Stapleton Christopher , Patel Aman
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Large aneurysms often present a challenge for endovascular navigation, as they may require utilization of “around-the-world” technique for distal access. In this study, we describe the use of a pipeline stent to stabilize the microcatheter allowing gradual unsheathing and straightening of the microcatheter within the aneurysm enabling stent deployment.

Methods

A pipeline stent is partially deployed distal to the aneurysm, after using intra-aneurysmal loop (“around-the-world”) to cross the aneurysm. Partially unsheathed, using its radial force and vessel wall friction to establish an anchoring point, the microcatheter is stabilized and pulled with the stent locked to gradually to allow loop reduction and microsystem straightening, allowing unsheathing as the microsystem is aligned with the inflow and outflow vessel.

Results

Two patients harboring cavernous segment aneurysms (measuring 18 × 12 mm and 21 × 24 mm) were treated by 3.75 × 25 mm and 4.25 × 25 mm pipeline devices, respectively, using this technique, deployed through a Phenom 0.027” microcatheter. Patients did well clinically with no thromboembolic complications, as follow-up imaging demonstrated good wall apposition and appreciable contrast stagnation.

Conclusion

Anchoring for loop reduction was previously described using a non-flow diverter stents or balloon requiring additional devices and exchange maneuvers to deploy a pipeline. The “pipe anchor” technique describes the use of a partially deployed flow diverter system as an anchor. This report suggests that pipeline radial force, albeit low, is sufficient. We believe that this method is worthy of consideration in select cases as a first choice and can be valuable tool in the armamentarium of the endovascular neurosurgeon.
Accuracy of uncalibrated 2D digital subtraction angiography measurements on a novel biplane system compared to computed tomography angiography
Authors: Landström Lovisa , Wasselius Johan A
Published: April 2023

Background

2D digital subtraction angiography (DSA) images are the gold standard for neuroradiological vascular assessment and the basis of interventional procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy and cerebral aneurysm coiling. However, length measurements in projected DSA images are affected by the distance between the x-ray source, the object, and the detector. Precise coordination between all integrated parts of a novel biplane system makes it possible to accurately measure DSA distances without manual calibration. The aim of this study was to compare vascular diameter measurements in uncalibrated DSA images with computed tomography angiography (CTA).

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing interventional neuroradiological procedures were retrospectively included. Vascular diameter measurements in the image isocenter and periphery were performed. These measurements were repeated in picture archiving and communication system (PACS) on DSA images and maximum intensity pixel (MIP) CTA images.

Results

Forty-two (42) consecutive patients with adequate DSA and CTA images were included in the final analysis. The correlation between vessel diameter measurements in the image isocenter (R2 = 0.81/0.85, p < 0.0001/p < 0.0001 [Reader1/Reader2]), periphery (R2 = 0.85/0.82, p < 0.0001/p < 0.0001 [Reader1/Reader2]), and all measurements combined (R2 = 0.87/0.87, p < 0.0001/p < 0.0001 [Reader1/Reader2]) on DSA and CTA were strong and statistically significant. The interclass correlation coefficient for measurements performed by two independent reviewers was strong (ICC = 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–0.98).

Conclusions

The correlations between uncalibrated DSA measurements and CTA for vessel diameter were strong. In addition, there were strong correlations between these image types for repeated measurements in the image isocenter as well as image periphery for vessel diameter. Consequently, endovascular devices can be sized correctly without the need for pre-operative non-invasive imaging.
Transradial balloon guide catheter placement for acute ischemic stroke thrombectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ramzan Abdullah , Kobeissi Hassan , Ghozy Sherief , Kadirvel Ramanathan , Kallmes David F
Published: April 2023

Background

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is a treatment option for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion. The use of a balloon-guided catheter (BGC) for EVT via transradial access (TRA) has emerged as a treatment approach, but its efficacy and safety compared to existing practices are uncertain.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed using Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science databases, and manual search. Studies reporting safety and efficacy metrics for TRA BGC EVT were included. Data regarding recanalization time, thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI), modified Rankin scale (mRS), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), first pass effect (FPE), and additional complications was pooled using a random-effects model to calculate event rates and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

The search yielded five studies (n  =  117). The mean time from puncture to final recanalization was 34.5 (95% CI  =  30.5 to 39.14, I2  =  0%, P-value  =  0.37) min. Successful recanalization (TICI 2b-3) and complete recanalization (TICI 3) occurred in 96.6% (95% CI  =  91.24 to 98.71, I2  =  0%, P-value  =  0.99) and 55.2% (95% CI  =  42.14 to 67.54, I2  =  0%, P-value  =  0.39) of cases, respectively. FPE occurred in 67.5% (95% CI  =  51.73 to 80.10, I2  =  0%, P-value  =  0.56) of patients. mRS 0-2 was achieved in 41.2% (95% CI  =  27.34 to 56.65, I2  =  70%, P-value  =  0.07) of patients. sICH occurred in 5.0% (95% CI  =  1.25 to 17.91, I2  =  0%, P-value  =  1.00) of patients. Local complications of radial hematoma and radial vasospasm occurred in 5.0% (95% CI  =  0.49 to 12.36, I2  =  29%, P-value  =  0.24) and 2.1% (95% CI  =  1.25 to 17.91, I2  =  71%, P-value  =  0.03) of cases, respectively. Switch to femoral access was necessary in 3.7% (95% CI  =  0.00 to 14.07, I2  =  68%, P-value  =  0.02) of procedures. The average number of passes per procedure was 1.6 (95% CI  =  1.15 to 2.11, I2  =  88%, P-value < 0.001).

Conclusion

TRA BGC EVT has potential as a safe and efficacious treatment option compared to existing methods. However, additional, prospective studies are necessary to inform clinical decision making.