bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Digital Painting Learning Model Using Mixed-Reality Technology to Develop Practical Skills in Character Design for Animation
Authors: Piankarnka Vipusit , Lertbumroongchai Kridsanapong , Piriyasurawong Pallop
Published: October 2023

This research aims to (1) synthesize the digital painting learning process by using mixed-reality technology to develop practical skills in character design for animation and (2) develop and evaluate digital painting learning models using mixed-reality technology to develop practical skills in character design for animation. This research was conducted by studying documentation and related research and designing digital painting learning models using mixed-reality technology to develop practical skills in character design for animation. Using a questionnaire, a total of 9 experts evaluated the model’s suitability. The statistics used in the research were the mean and standard deviation. The study found that a component of the digital painting learning process involves using mixed-reality technology to develop practical skills in character design for animation. It consists of the following four components: (1) input data, (2) the digital painting learning process, (3) output assessment, and (4) feedback. The expert’s evaluation of the model’s suitability found that the digital painting learning model using mixed-reality technology to develop practical skills in character design for animation was at the highest level (mean ± SD = 4.38 ± 0.21). This research is beneficial to faculty who teach character design and development for animation. The results of the study can be applied to teaching and learning.
An Interactive Holographic Multimedia Technology and Its Application in the Preservation and Dissemination of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Authors: Tang Taixiang , Zhang Huihua
Published: October 2023

Digital technology offers numerous advantages, such as preserving the authenticity, replicating reality, and facilitating dissemination. It enables the preservation of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in its original form and allows for the creation of comprehensive graphic, audio, and visual databases. Among these technologies, holographic technology holds promise for protecting ICH and promoting its dissemination. This paper focuses on interactive holographic technology and presents the design and implementation of a dynamic holographic display system that combines digital hologram (DH) and computer-generated hologram (CGH) to showcase 3D images consisting of both virtual and real objects. Real-time loading of DH into a spatial light modulator enables the optical reproduction of real objects, while the loading of two CGHs into other spatial light modulators facilitates the optical reproduction of virtual objects. Computational holography allows for the addition of virtual information, such as coordinate text, and the fusion of the three reconstructed images in space, resulting in an augmented reality experience and enhanced 3D display of real objects. An experimental setup employing three liquid crystal on silicon (LCOS) devices confirms the validity of the proposed method. Compared to other techniques, this approach demonstrates improved image signal-to-noise ratio, reduced alignment errors, and wider coverage of light traversal for laser 3D reconstruction images. The holographic technology presented in this paper enables the fusion display of real and virtual scenes and real-time two-way interaction between the audience and virtual images. This research holds significant practical value in promoting the effective dissemination and protection of ICH.
Development and Validation of the Amharic Version of Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectancy Measures on Intention to Take Preventive Actions on Noncommunicable Disease
Authors: Molla Legesse Shumye , Wondimu Habtamu
Published: October 2023

This study is aimed at developing and accessing the validity and reliability of an Amharic version of the self-efficacy and outcome expectancy measures on noncommunicable disease prevention strategies. The intentions to take protective measures on NCDs’ self-efficacy and outcome expectancy scales were created in Amharic using a sequential nine-step process that included translation and contextualization of the items, content validity, pretesting of the questions, sampling, and survey administration. Principal component analysis was conducted on 829 university students which showed a one-factor solution for self-efficacy and a three-factor solution for outcome expectancy scales using split-half measures. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the factor structure, which also demonstrated good internal consistency (.828 self-efficacy, .766 outcome expectancy). The scales had a moderate level of correlation (

r
=
.35

,

p
.
001

) between them. The study resulted in reliable and valid Amharic versions of self-efficacy (9-item) and outcome expectancy (12-item) scales.
Influence of Eggshell Ash and Stone Powder on Geotechnical Properties of Expansive Clay in Dukem Town
Authors: Teferra Tadesse Endale , Assefa Eleyas , Assefa S. M.
Published: October 2023

Expansive clays exhibit a distinctive swelling–shrinkage behavior, leading to structural distress and damage when subjected to varying moisture levels during different seasons. So, to mitigate these issues, stabilization techniques are commonly employed, aiming to diminish swelling tendencies and enhance the strength characteristics of expansive clays. This study delves into the transformative impact of utilizing eggshell ash (ESA) and stone powder (SP) as stabilizing agents on both the index properties and strength parameters of expansive clays. The selection of these stabilizing agents is guided by criteria encompassing cost-effectiveness, availability, and environmental compatibility. Through comprehensive analysis utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the mineralogical compositions of both soil and additives are meticulously examined. The XRD analysis of the expansive clay unveils the presence of minerals such as quartz, sanidine (potassium or sodium feldspar), and magnetite. Incorporating ESA into the expansive clay matrix yields substantial improvements across various soil index values, encompassing the free swell index, free swell ratio, linear shrinkage, and unconfined compressive strength value. To further amplify these benefits, the study extends its focus to the influence of SP while maintaining a consistent 6% ESA content. Notably, the addition of SP exhibits a significant enhancement in compressive strength, alongside other crucial properties. Synthesizing these findings, the laboratory results point to an optimal combination ratio of 6% ESA and 15% SP, as a recommended approach to achieve superior stabilization effects. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between stabilizing agents and expansive clays, paving the way for improved engineering practices and more resilient structural designs.
Osteoclastogenesis Inhibitor and Antioxidant Properties of Konjac Glucomannan in a Periodontitis Mice Model: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Dwiputri Edlyn , Lestari Kartika Dhipta , Tan Geraldi Hartono Kurniawan , Sulijaya Benso , Soeroso Yuniarti , Masulili Sri Lelyati C. , Takahashi Naoki , Tabeta Koichi , Tadjoedin Fatimah Maria
Published: October 2023

Background. Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by specific microorganisms that gradually damage the periodontal and tooth-supporting tissues, thereby reducing a person’s quality of life. Periodontal disease is closely associated with high reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, with a high receptor activator of nuclear factor kβ ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG) ratio. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) is produced from the porang root, which has several properties. For example, it can reduce oxidative stress. The current study analyzed the osteoclastogenesis inhibitory and antioxidant properties of KGM based on histomorphometric findings, RANKL/OPG ratio, and ROS levels in the Swiss Webster mouse periodontitis model. Methods. Eight-week-old male Swiss Webster mice were divided into the nonligation, nonligation + KGM, ligation + Porphyromonas gingivalis, and ligation + P. gingivalis + KGM groups. KGM suspension was administered for 14 days. Periodontitis induction was performed from 7th to 14th day. On the 14th day, maxillae, gingival, and gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected to assess the histomorphometry of bone damage, gene expression ratio of RANKL/OPG, and ROS protein levels. Results. The periodontitis group pretreated with KGM presented with significantly reduced alveolar bone damage, RANKL/OPG ratio, and ROS level than without KGM group. KGM treatment had no harmful/toxic effects in mice. Conclusion. Administration of KGM could act as an adjunctive in periodontal therapy by suppressing periodontal disease via osteoclastogenesis inhibitory and antioxidant properties.
Evaluation of Fundus Function in Mature Cataract Patients by Visual Electrophysiology
Authors: Zhang Min , Ji Min , Tan Mengjia , Yu Ying , Guan Huaijin
Published: October 2023

Purpose. To explore the value of visual electrophysiology in evaluating the fundus function of mature cataract patients. Methods. 124 mature cataract patients (153 eyes) were examined before cataract surgery; the examinations included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), pattern visual evoked potential (PVEP), full‐field electroretinogram (ffERG), and multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG). According to the postoperative fundus conditions, the subjects were divided into two groups: the no fundus disease group and the fundus disease group. Approximately one month after the operation, BCVA was measured, and visual electrophysiology was performed on subjects who had a stable fundus condition and had not received treatment for fundus disease. Results. One month after cataract surgery, BCVA ≤ 0.3 logMAR was found in 60 eyes (96.8%) without fundus disease and 59 eyes (64.8%) with fundus disease. Compared with the group without fundus disease, the preoperative electrophysiological examination of the group with fundus disease showed that the amplitude of ffERG waves and the amplitude density of the P1 wave in the 2nd to 5th rings of mfERG were decreased (all P < 0.05). ffERG and mfERG can be used for differential diagnosis of fundus disease (all P < 0.05), while PVEP has no significant diagnostic value for fundus disease (all P > 0.05). In the group without fundus disease, the amplitude of the PVEP 15′ P100 wave and the amplitude of dark‐adapted (DA) 0.01 b‐wave, DA 3.0 a‐wave, and DA 10.0 a‐wave were negatively correlated with postoperative logMAR BCVA (all P < 0.05). In the group with fundus disease, the amplitude of PVEP and ffERG and the amplitude density of mfERG were negatively correlated with postoperative logMAR BCVA (all P < 0.05). In the eyes of cortical cataracts, some parameters of PVEP, ffERG, and mfERG were significantly different before and after surgery. In the eyes of nuclear cataracts, some parameters of ffERG and mfERG were significantly different before and after surgery. In the eyes of posterior subcapsular cataracts, some parameters of PVEP and ffERG were significantly different before and after surgery. Conclusions. ffERG and mfERG can be used to detect fundus disease in mature cataract patients. The preoperative visual electrophysiological examination has high clinical value in predicting postoperative vision of mature cataract patients with fundus disease. Different types of cataracts have different effects on electrophysiological examination results. When interpreting the electrophysiological report, it is necessary to consider the existence of cataracts. This trial is registered with 2019-K068.
Experimental Investigation on the Influence of Superplasticizer on Mechanical Behavior of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Patowary Faruk , Siddique Mohammad Al Amin
Published: October 2023

Needs for renovation and efficient use of available land space have led to the destruction of numerous deteriorated civil structures. Consequently, a huge amount of concrete demolished waste is generated annually worldwide. This demolished concrete waste has created an extra burden on the environment and landfills, making the development projects unsustainable. Demolished waste can be recycled and reused for sustainable development and to reduce the demand for fresh natural aggregates (NA). However, the poor performance of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) compared to natural aggregate concrete (NAC) may be a significant drawback in the recycling and reusing of demolished concrete wastes. This limitation can be overcome by using a superplasticizer, which has the ability to improve different mechanical properties of concrete. The objective of this paper is to assess the effects of the superplasticizer on the mechanical characteristics of RAC. Concrete specimens were prepared to have replacement ratios (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100%) of fresh NA by recycled stone aggregates (RSA) and recycled brick aggregates (RBA). Half of the prepared concrete specimens were admixed with the superplasticizer, having 15% water reduction for concrete mixes. The obtained test results encourage the use of superplasticizers for improving the mechanical properties of RAC. It is observed that fresh, natural coarse aggregates in a concrete mix can be replaced with 50% RSA and 25% RBA with the addition of the superplasticizer without compromising the mechanical performance.
Metabolomic Rewiring Promotes Endocrine Therapy Resistance in Breast Cancer
Authors: Ahn Songyeon , Park Jun Hyoung , Grimm Sandra L. , Piyarathna Danthasinghe Waduge Badrajee , Samanta Tagari , Putluri Vasanta , Mezquita Dereck , Fuqua Suzanne A.W. , Putluri Nagireddy , Coarfa Cristian , Kaipparettu Benny Abraham
Published: October 2023

Approximately one-third of endocrine-treated women with estrogen receptor alpha–positive (ER+) breast cancers are at risk of recurrence due to intrinsic or acquired resistance. Thus, it is vital to understand the mechanisms underlying endocrine therapy resistance in ER+ breast cancer to improve patient treatment. Mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) has been shown to be a major metabolic pathway in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that can activate Src signaling. Here, we found metabolic reprogramming that increases FAO in ER+ breast cancer as a mechanism of resistance to endocrine therapy. A metabolically relevant, integrated gene signature was derived from transcriptomic, metabolomic, and lipidomic analyses in TNBC cells following inhibition of the FAO rate-limiting enzyme carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT1), and this TNBC-derived signature was significantly associated with endocrine resistance in patients with ER+ breast cancer. Molecular, genetic, and metabolomic experiments identified activation of AMPK-FAO-oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) signaling in endocrine-resistant ER+ breast cancer. CPT1 knockdown or treatment with FAO inhibitors in vitro and in vivo significantly enhanced the response of ER+ breast cancer cells to endocrine therapy. Consistent with the previous findings in TNBC, endocrine therapy–induced FAO activated the Src pathway in ER+ breast cancer. Src inhibitors suppressed the growth of endocrine-resistant tumors, and the efficacy could be further enhanced by metabolic priming with CPT1 inhibition. Collectively, this study developed and applied a TNBC-derived signature to reveal that metabolic reprogramming to FAO activates the Src pathway to drive endocrine resistance in ER+ breast cancer.

Significance:

Increased fatty acid oxidation induced by endocrine therapy activates Src signaling to promote endocrine resistance in breast cancer, which can be overcome using clinically approved therapies targeting FAO and Src.
Overall Survival and Exploratory Biomarker Analyses of Abemaciclib plus Trastuzumab with or without Fulvestrant versus Trastuzumab plus Chemotherapy in HR+, HER2+ Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Tolaney Sara M. , Goel Shom , Nadal Jorge , Denys Hannelore , Borrego Manuel R. , Litchfield Lacey M. , Liu Jiangang , Appiah Adams K. , Chen Yanyun , André Fabrice
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

The monarcHER trial has shown that abemaciclib, a cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitor, combined with fulvestrant and trastuzumab, improves progression-free survival (PFS) in hormone receptor–positive (HR+), HER2-positive (HER2+) advanced breast cancer (ABC) compared with standard-of-care (SOC) chemotherapy combined with trastuzumab. We report the final overall survival (OS) analysis, updated safety and efficacy data, and exploratory biomarker results from monarcHER.

Patients and Methods:

monarcHER (NCT02675231), a randomized, multicenter, open-label, phase II trial, enrolled 237 patients across Arm A (abemaciclib, trastuzumab, fulvestrant), Arm B (abemaciclib, trastuzumab), and Arm C (SOC chemotherapy, trastuzumab). Following the statistical plan, OS and PFS were estimated in all arms. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on archival tissue.

Results:

Median OS was 31.1 months in Arm A, 29.2 months in Arm B, and 20.7 months in Arm C [A vs. C: HR, 0.71; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.48–1.05; nominal two-sided P value 0.086; B vs. C: HR 0.83 (95% CI, 0.57–1.23); nominal two-sided P value 0.365]. Updated PFS and safety findings were consistent with previous results. The most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events included diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, neutrophil count decrease, and anemia. In exploratory RNA-seq analyses, Luminal subtypes were associated with longer PFS [8.6 vs. 5.4 months (HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.38–0.79)] and OS [31.7 vs. 19.7 months (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.46–1.00)] compared with non-Luminal.

Conclusions:

In this phase II trial, abemaciclib + trastuzumab ± fulvestrant numerically improved median OS in women with HR+, HER2+ ABC compared with SOC chemotherapy + trastuzumab.
Aortic Steal Correlates with Acute Organ Dysfunction and Short-Term Outcomes in Neonates with Vein of Galen Malformation
Authors: Schwarz Simone , Brevis Nuñez Francisco , Dürr Nikola R. , Schlunz-Hendann Martin , Brassel Friedhelm , Felderhoff-Müser Ursula , Dohna-Schwake Christian , Bruns Nora
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) is a rare, congenital cerebrovascular malformation with high morbidity and mortality. Parameters to foresee clinical progression and allow individualized parent counseling are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate aortic steal measured by Doppler ultrasound as a prognostic parameter in these neonates. Methods: A retrospective monocentric analysis of cardiac ultrasound exams before embolization in neonates with VGAM was conducted. Percentage of aortic steal measured by time-averaged maximum velocity above and below the zero flow baseline by pulsed Doppler ultrasound at the preductal aortic isthmus was calculated. Association of aortic steal with parameters of acute organ dysfunction (Bicêtre neonatal evaluation score [BNES], neonatal multiple organ dysfunction score [NeoMODS]) and mortality and determination of correlation between aortic steal and cerebral damage on initial and follow-up cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) were evaluated. Results: Twelve neonates were included, of which 3 died. Per 10 percentage point increase of aortic steal, BNES decreased by 1.64 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–2.0) points and the maximum observed NeoMODS increased by 1.25 (CI: 0.94–1.57) points. The odds for mortality increased by 2.3 (CI: 1.14–13.67) per 10 percentage point increase of aortic steal. There was a correlation between aortic steal and cerebral damage at baseline (white matter ρ [rho] = 0.34, gray matter ρ = 0.81) and follow-up (white matter ρ = 0.80, gray matter ρ = 0.72). Conclusion: The degree of aortic steal in neonates with VGAM was highly associated with the severity of organ dysfunction, disease progression on cMRI, and mortality.
Braquiárias: ecofisiologia
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz
Published: October 2023

Historicamente, o potencial das braquiárias para uso agronômico foi reconhecido cerca de 60 anos atrás, limitando-se, na época, a uma parcela do território australiano. Com o tempo, a utilização do gênero ganhou espaço em outros continentes, demarcando seu sucesso como planta forrageira. Nesse sentido, a grande adaptabilidade das braquiárias aos solos pobres e ácidos, sua fácil multiplicação por sementes, boa capacidade competitiva contra invasoras, aliadas ao bom desempenho animal em comparação às espécies nativas, ajudam a explicar sua rápida expansão territorial nos trópicos. Este trabalho envolve um estudo relevante para pastagens, cobertura e estruturação do solo, produção de forragem; abrangendo desde a origem até estratégias para altas produções, passando pela sua classificação, propagação, desenvolvimento, efeitos de fatores ecológicos, relações hídricas, solos e nutrição, efeitos de biorreguladores, fotossíntese, florescimento e frutificação, zoneamento agroclimático e adaptações ao meio ambiente. Das espécies cultivadas para produção animal, as dos gêneros Urochloa e Brachiaria estão entre as mais utilizadas em relação a sua distribuição, tornando-se naturalizada em todo trópico úmido e subúmido. Assim como outras gramíneas dos gêneros, a espécie foi amplamente encontrada em toda região tropical da África. O texto poderá ser utilizado por professores, consultores e estudantes das áreas de pastagens, agricultura, biologia e ecologia vegetal.
Voluntary Control of Cognitive Activity in Preschool Children: Age-dependent Changes from Ages 3-4 to 4-5
Authors: Zakharova Marina N. , Machinskaya Regina I.
Published: October 2023

Background. Voluntary control of goal-directed behavior and mental activity in preschool children plays a key role in knowledge acquisition and future academic achievement. Studies of voluntary control have mainly concerned 6-8-year- old children; much less is known about the ability to exercise voluntary control at early ages. Due to the high prognostic value of the level of development of voluntary control and heterogeneous development of their individual components, it seems actually useful to study age-related changes of these components in children from 3-4 to 4-5 years old. Objective. To compare age-related changes in executive functions (EF) in children age 3-4 years (mean age: 3.5±0.2 yrs; n = 49; 31 boys) and 4-5 years (mean age: 4.5±0.3 yrs; n = 70; 35 boys). Design. To assess the different components of EF we used: 1) a qualitative group and individual testing procedure based on the principles of Luria’s theory of the dynamic localization and organization of higher mental functions; and 2) a computerized testing procedure which included the Bourdon-Wiersma cancellation test, the “Hearts and Flowers” conflict test (the Dots task), and the Corsi block-tapping test. Results. The results showed that different components of voluntary control developed at different rates (heterochronically): there were significant progressive changes from 3-4 to 4-5 years for working memory, assimilation of instructions, switching between separate actions, selective concentration on a target or task, and the distribution of attention. Some other components of EF did not show significant positive dynamics during this period. Conclusion. The results indicate the importance of applying the activity theory approach to the development of cognitive processes in preschool age.
Cyborgs vs. Vatniks: Hybridity, Weaponized Information, and Mediatized Reality in Recent Ukrainian War Films
Authors: Ladygina Yuliya V.
Published: October 2023

Focusing on Akhtem Seitablaiev’s blockbuster Kiborhy: Heroi ne vmyraiut (Cyborgs: Heroes Never Die, 2017) and Sergei Loznitsa’s auteur production Donbass (2018), this article argues that the 2014–2022 cycle of Ukrainian war films merits critical attention as an astute record of conspicuous social transformations in pre-full-scale-invasion Ukraine and for their original perspective on the hybrid nature of modern war and its mediatization. The article uses postcolonial and cyborg theories of hybridity, Baudrillard’s concept of simulacra, and the Marxist notion of “false consciousness” to illustrate how post-Soviet, postcolonial, and post-truth aspects of war-torn Ukraine conflate in Seitablaiev’s and Loznitsa’s works to highlight the recent shift in the nature of warfare itself. As the two films unequivocally demonstrate, the latter is defined not so much by high-tech armed operations and direct annihilation of the opponent as by contactless warfare, as well as by its consequences for those directly influenced by it.
New species of the tribe Sericini Kirby, 1837 from China, with further updates on their taxonomy and distribution (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Sericinae)
Authors: ZHAO MING-ZHI , AHRENS DIRK
Published: October 2023

Fifteen new species of Sericini are described from China, including Gastroserica (s. str.) mayunshui Zhao & Ahrens, new species, Pachyserica albopunctata Zhao & Ahrens, new species, P. dongnanensis Zhao & Ahrens, new species, P. jianfengensis Zhao & Ahrens, new species, Serica (s. l.) caiyiyiae Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (s. l.) babaoshanensis Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (s. l.) jicaiyanae Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (s. l.) zhangyaonani Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (s. l.) longidentata Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (s. l.) callosericoides Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (Taiwanoserica) liboyani Zhao & Ahrens, new species, S. (T.) yangzaichuni Zhao & Ahrens, new species, Maladera zhanchaoi Zhao & Ahrens, new species M. parabikouensis Zhao & Ahrens, new species and M. shikengkongensis Zhao & Ahrens, new species. Maladera juxianensis Ahrens, Fabrizi & Liu, 2021 was recognized as a junior synonym of M. aureola (Murayama, 1938). Additional collecting data for 32 other sericine species is presented.
Framing the Pandemic on Persian Twitter: Gauging Networked Frames by Topic Modeling
Authors: Kermani Hossein
Published: October 2023

This study makes a dual contribution to the current literature. First, it examines how Iranian Twitter users framed the COVID-19 crisis in collaborative practice, networked framing. Second, it explores the potential for topic modeling in automated frame identification. The study analyzes a dataset of 4,165,177 tweets collected from Iranian Twittersphere between January 21, 2020 and April 29, 2020. The results indicate that Iranians predominantly framed the pandemic through a political lens and utilized anti-regime networked frames to contest the political system in general and during the pandemic. Furthermore, the study finds that while Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) can accurately identify the most significant networked frames, it may overlook less prominent frames. The research also suggests that LDA performs better with larger datasets and lexical semantics. Lastly, the implications and limitations of the investigation are discussed.
The Role of Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value in Predicting Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Development in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Due to NSTEMI
Authors: Cetinkaya Zeki , Kelesoglu Saban
Published: October 2023

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), which can develop after procedures involving contrast agents, is a significant cause of patient morbidity and mortality. This study aims to investigate the role of pre-procedural pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) in predicting CIN development in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) due to non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). A total of 1006 NSTEMI patients were included in the study. CIN was defined as an increase of at least 0.5 mg/dl or 25% in serum baseline creatinine level 72 h after the procedure. Patients were divided into two groups: those with and without CIN. NSTEMI patients who developed CIN, glucose level ( P = .01), platelet count ( P < .01), monocyte count ( P < .001), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ( P < .001), systemic immune inflammation index (SII) score ( P < .001), and PIV ( P < .001) were higher compared with those without CIN. In the multivariate analysis of all these parameters, the Odds ratios of PIV and SII were similar and slightly lower than NLR. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis (ROC) showed a PIV cut-off value of 448.43 with a sensitivity of 83.1% and a specificity of 72.8% in patients with CIN. Our study demonstrated an independent relationship between PIV at admission and CIN development in NSTEMI patients.
A Pilot Randomized Control Trial Demonstrating the Efficacy of the SIESTA Sleep Hygiene Intervention
Authors: Koinis-Mitchell Daphne , Boergers Julie , Yeo Anna J. , Molera Grace , Kopel Sheryl J. , McQuaid Elizabeth L. , Chen Katie , Wolfson Amy R. , Chavez Ligia , Jandasek Barbara , Canino Glorisa
Published: October 2023

Shorter sleep duration can negatively impact children’s daytime functioning and health. Latino children living near urban areas in the Mainland U.S. and Island Puerto Rico (PR) can be exposed to urban poverty and sociocultural stressors that challenge optimal sleep outcomes. Interventions to improve urban Latino children’s sleep health should consider families’ cultural background and environmental context to enhance acceptability and feasibility. This work describes our stepwise, multimethod approach to adapting a culturally and contextually tailored “School Intervention to Enhance Latino Students’ Time Asleep (SIESTA)” for sixth- to eighth-grade Latino children residing in Greater Providence and San Juan and findings from a pilot randomized control trial (RCT) demonstrating SIESTA’s efficacy. Results indicated high acceptability and greater improvement of sleep duration and behaviors in SIESTA versus control participants. The SIESTA shows potential to improve sleep outcomes in urban Latino middle schoolers. Results will inform a large-scale RCT to evaluate SIESTA’s effectiveness and barriers to implementation.
Child Victimization and Poly-Victimization Among Men and Women Justice-Involved in Northern Chile
Authors: Pinto-Cortez Cristián , Portilla-Saavedra Diego , Contreras Lorena , Ferrer-Urbina Rodrigo , Carvajal Javiera , Rojas Marjorie , Zamora Álvaro
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to identify the magnitude of child victimization and polyvictimization in incarcerated individuals in northern Chile. A sample of 229 adults deprived of liberty in northern Chile was recruited. The results showed that incarcerated individuals presented significant percentages of child abuse and sexual victimization experiences (58.6% and 58.4%, respectively). In the analysis by sex, males suffer more frequently victimization by common crimes and peer victimization in their childhood. Sexual victimization was reported more frequently in females. The results reflect the high rates of child victimization and polyvictimization among the incarcerated population in northern Chile. The results can be useful in developing public policy for incarcerated individuals sensitive to their childhood victimization experiences and their mental health.
From project-based to community-based social impact assessment: New social impact assessment pathways to build community resilience and enhance disaster risk reduction and climate action
Authors: Imperiale Angelo Jonas , Vanclay Frank
Published: October 2023

Social impact assessment can greatly contribute to sustainable regional and urban planning. However, social impact assessment is used primarily in the context of pre-determined projects, while social impact assessment’s role in informing regional and urban plans before projects are even conceived is under-estimated. Moreover, a narrow understanding of the social impacts of projects leads social impact assessment practitioners to consider such impacts as being the outcomes only of the technical characteristics and risks of projects and their implementation, rather than also of broader social, cultural and political-institutional processes. In this article, we reflect on these gaps in social impact assessment. We expand the conceptualization of the social impacts of projects to better consider how social impacts are also influenced by the social dimensions of risk and resilience, and by the knowledge processes and governance strategies that inform and regulate projects. We conceptualize these processes and strategies and design new conceptual models to derive the social impacts of projects. Finally, we reflect on the strategic role social impact assessment can have in enabling social learning and sustainability transformation in localities (i.e. community resilience) and across multiple governance levels (i.e. social resilience). With this article, we contribute to building a key role for social impact assessment in disaster risk reduction, climate action and sustainable development.
Linear Factor Analytic Thurstonian Forced-Choice Models: Current Status and Issues
Authors: Jansen Markus T. , Schulze Ralf
Published: October 2023

Thurstonian forced-choice modeling is considered to be a powerful new tool to estimate item and person parameters while simultaneously testing the model fit. This assessment approach is associated with the aim of reducing faking and other response tendencies that plague traditional self-report trait assessments. As a result of major recent methodological developments, the estimation of normative trait scores has become possible in addition to the computation of only ipsative scores. This opened up the important possibility of comparisons between individuals with forced-choice assessment procedures. With item response theory (IRT) methods, a multidimensional forced-choice (MFC) format has also been proposed to estimate individual scores. Customarily, items to assess different traits are presented in blocks, often triplets, in applications of the MFC, which is an efficient form of item presentation but also a simplification of the original models. The present study provides a comprehensive review of the present status of Thurstonian forced-choice models and their variants. Critical features of the current models, especially the block models, are identified and discussed. It is concluded that MFC modeling with item blocks is highly problematic and yields biased results. In particular, the often-recommended presentation of blocks with items that are keyed in different directions of a trait proves to be counterproductive considering the goal to reduce response tendencies. The consequences and implications of the highlighted issues are further discussed.
A colleague named Max: A critical inquiry into affects when an anthropomorphised AI (ro)bot enters the workplace
Authors: Einola Katja , Khoreva Violetta , Tienari Janne
Published: October 2023

We offer a critical inquiry into the faltering entry of an anthropomorphised AI (ro)bot, an algorithm without physical or visual form, into the workplace in a media consultancy company. While living a digital life in the virtual world, the ro(bot) was given a human name. We highlight the unexpected consequences the humanisation of an early form of artificial intelligence (AI) has on the affects circulating between people and the new technology and between members of different organisational groups. We argue that anthropomorphising technologies such as AI influences the affective life of organisations and amplifies existing discontent between organisational members, complicating the introduction of the technology. Focusing on human–AI interaction, our analysis reveals a rift between managers who are excited and hopeful about the future capabilities of AI and employees who are frustrated and angry about its present shortcomings. We conclude that collective affects play a central role in contemporary technology-driven organisations in which the role people play in relation to the avalanche of AI technologies is often neglected.
Cat’s Cradle and the Threads of Maslow’s Humanistic Meditation
Authors: Rockwell Donna
Published: October 2023

Abraham Maslow used “Toward a Humanistic Biology,” published in 1969, to present his future vision of the challenges humankind would face in the growing isolation of persons from each other and themselves. Depersonalization, polarization, and loneliness amid the state of post-pandemic, mid-culture war, warring nations, plagues of economic hardship, racism, nationalism, immigration rejection, and wading deep into a climate cataclysm may cast people out of their societies, or, alternately, huddled alone within them. Ultimately, political power dictates outcomes, as Maslow points out, along with the fate of the world. Mindfulness and its capacity to create more serene and compassionate mind states may hold a model for a new humanistic revolution.
The Editor’s Note: A culture of healing
Authors: Preston Teresa
Published: October 2023

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tell a story of worsening mental health across the board, with students from marginalized groups experiencing the greatest risk. The November 2023 issue of Kappan looks at how schools can address student and teacher mental health. In her Editor’s Note for the issue, Teresa Preston discusses some of the highlights of the issue.
The rural teacher shortage
Authors: Ingersoll Richard M. , Tran Henry
Published: October 2023

There is much alarm about the current teacher shortage resulting from the pandemic and its aftermath. But teacher shortages have long been a perennial issue in K-12 education. Researchers Richard Ingersoll and Henry Tran analyzed data from the National Center of Education Statistics to compare rural schools to urban and suburban schools to understand their teacher staffing problems. They found that rural teacher shortages are worse than elsewhere and are driven by teacher turnover and hence won’t be solved just by focusing on new teacher recruitment. High-poverty rural schools and rural schools with high levels of students of color face the most extreme teacher turnover of all schools, experiencing departures of between a quarter and a third of teachers annually. Their reasons for leaving include lack of classroom autonomy and the inability to be included in schoolwide decision making.
Gifted education advances school integration and equity
Authors: Peters Scott J. , Makel Matthew C. , Carter James S.
Published: October 2023

Gifted and talented services have a long and tainted history. Since their inception, they have not served a student population that mirrored the racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic diversity of the nation as a whole. But this need not be the case. Contemporary approaches to gifted education can advance the goals of equity and school integration. In short, they can be a means through which schools serve a more diverse student population. This is possible by mandating access to gifted services in all schools, making sure all students are universally screened for eligibility, and using within-building comparisons to determine eligibility. Scott J. Peters, Matthew C. Makel, and James S. Carter III outline this perspective and explain why it would be effective at mitigating school segregation and popular among a broad range of constituencies.
Learning with leaders: A movement to modernize teaching: kareem farah
Authors: Lane James F.
Published: October 2023

James Lane, CEO of PDK International, talks with Kareem Farah, the CEO and co-founder of the Modern Classrooms Project, which offers free training for teachers who want to transform their teaching to adapt to student needs. Farah describes the competency-based model of teaching advocated in the Modern Classrooms Project, what a classroom using the model looks like, how it aligns with pacing guides and standards, what outcomes he’s seen in schools using the approach, and how educators can learn more.
Policy Solutions: Transgender students: Navigating the politics
Authors: Collins Jonathan E.
Published: October 2023

Superintendents increasingly are leaving their positions over pressure and vitriol in their communities over culture war issues, such as critical race theory and supports for LGBTQ+ students. Columnist Jonathan E. Collins performed two studies revealing that when policies on transgender students are framed as protection from violence, more people support those policies, regardless of their political affiliation. These considerations could help districts support transgender students without tension and controversy in their communities.
Is Mindful Parenting Associated with School-Aged Children’s Meta-Mood? Exploring the Role of Children’s Mindfulness
Authors: Wang Mengping , Chen Dan , Xu Wei
Published: October 2023

Previous studies have shown that mindful parenting is associated with children’s emotional development. The current study explored the association between mindful parenting and school-aged children’s meta-mood, with children’s mindfulness as a potential mediator. A total of 375 valid parent-child pairs were recruited from two primary schools in China. Parents’ mindful parenting and children’s meta-mood were measured at baseline. Five months later, children completed measures of mindfulness and meta-mood. The results indicated that mindful parenting directly and indirectly predicted school-aged children’s meta-mood, with the latter mediated by children’s mindfulness. This study contributes to the field of emotional development in school-aged children. The results of this study imply that intervention in mindful parenting may foster school-aged children’s healthy emotional development through children’s mindfulness.
Lessons from a “Scholar on Fire” for a World on Fire: A Framework to Position Technical and Professional Communication Scholars for Policy Impact
Authors: Willers Heidi
Published: October 2023

Technical and Professional Communication (TPC) scholars and practitioners (TPCers) see a need to intervene in a range of complex problems. Yet scholars such as Leah Ceccarelli and Lauren Cagle have noted a gap between scholarly research findings and policy changes. To address this gap, I theorize a strategic grounding framework, consisting of multiple, linked tactics that over time enable TPCers to make a case to gain a seat at the table to shape policy. I theorize this framework through a case study of Stephen J. Pyne, founder of the subfield of Fire History, who influenced national and global fire management policy. I examine Pyne's professional papers, housed in the Stephen J. Pyne Papers Collection at the Arizona State University Archives. The framework offers TPCers a series of tactics that position TPCers as change makers as they place their expertise to shape policy that addresses complex problems.
Prevalence of multiple long-term conditions (multimorbidity) in England: a whole population study of over 60 million people
Authors: Valabhji Jonathan , Barron Emma , Pratt Adrian , Hafezparast Nasrin , Dunbar-Rees Rupert , Turner Ellie Bragan , Roberts Kate , Mathews Jacqueline , Deegan Robbie , Cornelius Victoria , Pickles Jason , Wainman Gary , Bakhai Chirag , Johnston Desmond G , Gregg Edward W , Khunti Kamlesh
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) at whole English population level, stratifying by age, sex, socioeconomic status and ethnicity.

Design

A whole population study.

Setting

Individuals registered with a general practice in England and alive on 31 March 2020.

Participants

60,004,883 individuals.

Main outcome measures

MLTC prevalence, defined as two or more of 35 conditions derived from a number of national patient-level datasets. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the independent associations of age, sex, ethnicity and deprivation decile with odds of MLTC.

Results

The overall prevalence of MLTC was 14.8% (8,878,231), varying from 0.9% (125,159) in those aged 0–19 years to 68.2% (1,905,979) in those aged 80 years and over. In multivariable regression analyses, compared with the 50–59 reference group, the odds ratio was 0.04 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.04–0.04; p < 0.001) for those aged 0–19 years and 10.21 (10.18–10.24; p < 0.001) for those aged 80 years and over. Odds were higher for men compared with women, 1.02 (1.02–1.02; p < 0.001), for the most deprived decile compared with the least deprived, 2.26 (2.25–2.27; p < 0.001), and for Asian ethnicity compared with those of white ethnicity, 1.05 (1.04–1.05; p < 0.001). Odds were lower for black, mixed and other ethnicities (0.94 (0.94–0.95) p < 0.001, 0.87 (0.87–0.88) p < 0.001 and 0.57 (0.56–0.57) p < 0.001, respectively). MLTC for persons aged 0–19 years were dominated by asthma, autism and epilepsy, for persons aged 20–49 years by depression and asthma, for persons aged 50–59 years by hypertension and depression and for those aged 60 years and older, by cardiometabolic factors and osteoarthritis. There were large numbers of combinations of conditions in each age group ranging from 5936 in those aged 0–19 years to 205,534 in those aged 80 years and over.

Conclusions

While this study provides useful insight into the burden across the English population to assist health service delivery planning, the heterogeneity of MLTC presents challenges for delivery optimisation.
Participant Satisfaction in a Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Intervention for Midlife Black Women
Authors: Jones Holly J. , Kovacic Melinda Butsch , Bacchus Patricia , Almallah Wala’a , Bakas Tamilyn
Published: October 2023

Background:

Midlife Black women suffer disproportionately from cardiovascular disease and are 65% more likely to die following a cardiac event compared with White women. Recruitment and retention of midlife Black women in clinical trials has been historically low. The culturally tailored Midlife Black Women’s Stress Reduction and Wellness (B-SWELL) intervention was codeveloped with the community and designed to lower cardiovascular disease risk in midlife Black women.

Objectives:

We sought to assess participant satisfaction in the randomized feasibility trial of the B-SWELL intervention.

Methods:

A feasibility trial comparing the B-SWELL to a wellness intervention was conducted in the winter and spring of 2021 in compliance with pandemic research protocols. An adapted survey tool was used to rate satisfaction with the intervention and its technology using a Likert-type scale (1 [strongly disagree] to 5 [strongly agree]). Survey subscales assessed usefulness, ease, and acceptability of the intervention(s).

Results:

Randomization yielded no statistical demographic differences (N = 48). Satisfaction for the interventions was high in both the B-SWELL and Wellness intervention groups with mean scores of 4.57 and 4.56, respectively. Mean scores for technology were 4.49 for the B-SWELL and 4.47 for the Wellness group. Subscales were also rated highly. Narrative responses were positively aligned with satisfaction scores.

Conclusions:

Results support use of cultural adaptation and community participatory methods to develop and deliver interventions targeted to at-risk populations. Culturally adapted interventions designed in collaboration with the community have greater authenticity, increasing the potential for higher recruitment, retention, and participant satisfaction of underrepresented populations. The trial is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 04404478).