bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the SONAS Ultrasound Device for the Assessment of Cerebral Perfusion in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Molaie Amir M. , Wilfling Sibylle , Kilic Mustafa , Wendl Christina , Linker Ralf A. , Schlachetzki Felix , Liebeskind David S.
Published: February 2024

Background

Early recognition of large‐vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke is pivotal to ensuring timely and effective treatment. However, current prehospital evaluation strategies largely rely on stroke scales that lack sensitivity and specificity. Recently, a novel, portable, noninvasive brain perfusion ultrasound device (SONAS) was developed as a diagnostic aid and demonstrated robust correlation with magnetic resonance imaging–based brain perfusion imaging. The present study aimed to investigate the feasibility and diagnostic performance of the SONAS device in identifying alterations in cerebral blood flow in patients with acute ischemic stroke with suspected or known perfusion deficits.

Methods

We performed a phase II, single‐arm, prospective study using SONAS in a close timely relation to computed tomography perfusion imaging in subjects diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke and suspected or known large‐vessel pathology, presenting within 24 hours of symptom onset between April 2019 through December 2019. Performance end points included successful measurement of time‐to‐peak in each hemisphere and comparison of perfusion deficits measured by SONAS to the reference standard computed tomography perfusion imaging. Safety end points included frequency, severity, and outcome of adverse events.

Results

A total of 20 subjects were enrolled. Eighteen subjects (90%) had microbubble signals successfully detected on initial assessment by SONAS. The diagnostic accuracy of the SONAS device in identifying a perfusion deficit was 88.9%. The sensitivity was 14 of 15 (93.3%), and the specificity was 2 of 3 (66.7%). No adverse events were reported secondary to SONAS or the contrast agent used.

Conclusion

In this clinical study, we demonstrated that the SONAS system is a safe tool that can aid in identifying cerebral perfusion deficits in this selected population of patients with acute ischemic stroke with suspected or known perfusion deficits. Future studies should assess the efficacy and impact on clinical outcomes of using SONAS in a real‐world “in the field” setting on a large subset of patients with suspected stroke and in addition to prehospital stroke scales.
The Paradox of Creating a Cocreator
Authors: Thelle Notto J. W. , Wærstad Bernt Isak
Published: February 2024

With the latest developments in AI, it is becoming increasingly common to view machines as cocreators. In this article, we follow four musicians in the project Co-Creative Spaces through a six-month long collaborative process in which they created new music through improvising with each other and—subsequently—with computer-based imitations of themselves. These musical agents were trained through machine learning to generate output in the style of the musicians and were capable of both following what they “heard” and initiating new directions in the interaction, leading to the question, “What happens to musical cocreation when AI is included in the creative cycle?” The musicians involved in Co-Creative Spaces are from Norway and Kenya—two countries with fundamentally different musical traditions. This leads to a second question: “How is the collaboration affected by possible cultural biases inherent in the technology and in the musicians themselves?”

These questions were examined as part of two five-day workshops—one at the beginning and one at the end of the project period—before two final concerts. The musicians engaged in improvisation sessions and recorded ensuing discussions. For each workshop day, the musicians also had conversations in focus groups moderated by a fifth project member, who, together with one of the musicians, was also responsible for the development of the software powering the musical agents. The analysis of the data from the workshops paints a complex picture of what it is like being at the intersection between different technological, musical, and cultural paradigms. The machine becomes a cocreator only when humans permit themselves to attribute creative agency to it.
Study on attenuation of miR-1-mediated ischemia-induced arrhythmias and infarction in rats by means of fulvning granule
Authors: Qiao Siyu , Liu Zhaoyi , Wei Yihong , Zhang Shuai , Liu Chunyan , Wang Yun , Zhang Yi , Shen Lin
Published: February 2024

Patients post myocardial infarction (MI) have a high incidence of frequent and complex ventricular arrhythmias. miR-1 is involved in ischemia-induced arrhythmias. Fulvning Granule (FG) is a prescription for treating ischemia-induced arrhythmias. This research investigated therapeutic
effect of FG on ischemia-induced arrhythmias in an depth way, focusing on expression of miR-1. 60 healthy Sprague Dawly rats were assigned to operation group, MI+normal saline group, MI+low dose of FG group, MI+moderate dose of FG group and MI+high dose of FG group, MI+propranolol group and
MI+moderate dose of FG+propranolol group. Hemodynamic measurement, arrhythmia classification, infarct area evaluation and miR-1 level quantification with expression of PKA and SRF were adopted 4 weeks after operation. FG improved hemodynamic indexes and inhibited expression of miR-1. The optimal
dose of FG was medium (P < 0.05). Combination of FG and propranolol further improved the hemodynamics indexes and inhibited the expression of miR-1, PKA and SRF (P < 0.05). FG regulated miR-1 expression via inhibition of Protein Kinase A (PKA) and serum response factor
(SRF) expressions. Meanwhile, β-adrenoceptor/PKA signaling pathway played a role in regulating miR-1 expression, while Fulvning granule combined with propranolol and showed an antiarrhythmic role and improved cardiac function after myocardial infarction.
Yes-associated protein regulates the differentiation and osteoporosis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wang Qiang , Jiang Xiaowei , Ying Pu , Jiang Wentao , Qian Zhiyuan , Lu Wei
Published: February 2024

Mammalian Yes-associated protein (YAP) is involved in the regulation of various biological behaviors. Osteoporosis (OP) is a common orthopedic disease. However, the role of YAP in the differentiation and osteoporosis of Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is unclear. Ovariectomy
(OVX)-induced OP rat model was constructed and YAP plasmid was transfected to detect bone density and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Rat BMSCs were assigned into 3 groups: sham group, OP group, and YAP group, in which YAP plasmid was transfected followed by analysis of YAP expression
by real-time PCR. After 14 days of induction culture, type I collagen, Osterix and FABP4 mRNA expression was detected by real-time PCR along with Wnt5 protein expression by western blot and TGF-β secretion by ELISA. In OP rats, YAP expression was significantly down-regulated and
the bone density and ALP activity decreased (P <0.05). YAP transfection in OP rats reversed the changes in OP rats. In OP group, YAP expression was decreased, and type I collagen and Osterix expression decreased, FABP4 expression increased, β-catenin expression and TGF-β
secretion decreased (P <0.05). Transfection of YAP plasmid in BMSCs of OP group significantly reversed the above changes (P <0.05). In conclusion, YAP level decreases in OP and up-regulating its expression in BMSCs can promote osteogenic differentiation and inhibit adipogenic
differentiation by regulating Tnt5/TGF-β signaling.
Effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes on gene and microRNA expression in human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells
Authors: Thai Sheau-Fung , Jones Carlton P. , Robinette Brian L. , Ren Hongzu , Vallanat Beena , Fisher Anna , Kitchin Kirk T.
Published: February 2024

The usage of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has increased exponentially in the past years, but, potential toxicity mechanisms are not clear. We studied the transcriptomic alterations induced by one multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) and its –OH and –COOH functionalized derivatives in human HepG2 cells. We showed that all three MWCNT treatments induced alterations in stress-related signaling pathways, inflammation-related signaling pathways, cholesterol synthesis pathways, proliferation-related pathways, senescence-related pathways and cancer-related pathways. In stress-related pathways, the acute phase response was induced in all three MWCNTs and all doses treated and ranked high. Other stress-related pathways were also related to the oxidative-induced signaling pathways, such as NRF-2 mediated oxidative stress response, hepatic fibrosis/Stella cell activation, iNOS signaling, and Hif1αsignaling. Many inflammationrelated pathways were altered, such as IL-8, IL-6, TNFR1, TNFR2, and NF-κB signaling pathways. These results were consistent with our previous results with exposures to the same three multi-walled carbon nanotubes in human lung BEAS-2B and also with results in mice and rats. From the microRNA target filter analysis, TXNIP & miR-128-3p interaction was present in all three MWCNT treatments, and maybe important for the induction of oxidative stress. CXCL-8 & miR-146-5p and Wee1 & miR-128-3p were only present in the cells treated with the parent and the OH-functionalized MWCNTs. These mRNA-miRNA interactions were involved in oxidative stress, inflammation, cell cycle, cholesterol biosynthesis and cancer related pathways. Target filter analysis also showed altered liver hyperplasia/hyperproliferation and hepatic cancer pathways. In short, target filter analysis complemented the transcriptomic analysis and pointed to specific gene/microRNA interactions that can help inform mechanism of action. Moreover, our study showed that the signaling pathways altered in HepG2 cells correlated well with the toxicity and carcinogenicity observedin vivo, indicating that HepG2 may be a goodin vitropredictive model for MWCNT toxicity studies.
Development of a rapid detection method for molecular beacons LAMP for Vibrio parahaemolyticus in food safety
Authors: Lv Jiayin , Guan Yuhong
Published: February 2024

A bacteria called Vibrio parahaemolyticus can result in food poisoning; therefore, Finding Vibrio parahaemolyticus in food quickly is essential to reduce food poisoning. A MB-LAMP fast detection technique was created in this work to identify Vibrio parahaemolyticus
DNA in food products with 102 CFU/mL of sensitivity and absence of cross-reactivity with four additional bacteria. For 20 hypothetical instances, the MB-LAMP system was consistent with the commercial Vibrio parahaemolyticus qPCR kit, and the former reduced the experimental
time by about 35 min compared with the latter.
MnO2 nanoparticle improves the immunosuppressive characteristics of tumor-associated mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Tin Waihin , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhao Yijun , Song Shiyao , Liu Weiming , Zheng Jiayin , Xie Mengyun , Wang Ying , Sun Kexin , Dai Jiatong , Chen Jiajie , Cao Jiafan , Ding Xin , Mou Lisha , Huang Libin
Published: February 2024

Tumor-associated marrow mesenchymal stem/stromal cells have immunosuppressive effects on immune cells within the tumor microenvironment in various cancers. However, effective treatments targeting these cells are currently limited. Here, we developed a nanoparticle of MnO2
aiming to inhibit the immunosuppressive properties of Tumor-Associated Marrow Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. We investigated the physicochemical characteristics of MnO2 and its potential for alleviating hypoxia in IL17 and IFNγ transformed Tumor-Associated Marrow Mesenchymal
stem/stromal cells. The Tumor-Associated Marrow Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells had higher expression level of chemokines and immunosuppressors, which promotes the progression of tumors and inhibits the immune cells, leading to tumor metastasis and angiogenesis. After treatment of the nanoparticle
of MnO2, the expression level of chemokines had significantly decreased due to the unique properties of MnO2. Furthermore, the nanoparticle decreased the expression level of immunosuppressors of Tumor-Associated Marrow Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells and rescued the proliferation
of T lymphocytes cocultured with the cells. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that MnO2 nanoparticles effectively improve the hypoxic microenvironment and alleviate immunosuppression caused by Tumor-Associated Marrow Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. The utilization of this
novel approach exhibits promising potential as a therapeutic strategy for addressing diverse types of cancers.
Optimization of mechanical properties for intelligent building materials combining with various steel fiber types and nano-Carbon black
Authors: Zhou Liang , Tian Yong , Tian Ting , Zhang Wangxi
Published: February 2024

The mechanical properties of building materials has emerged as a novel application criterion. However, the investigation of the influence of different steel fibers (SFs) types and nano-carbon black (CB) on the mechanical properties of intelligent building materials remains limited.
In this paper, an orthogonal test is conducted to analyze the mechanical performance of building materials with various types of SF and different factors of SFs and CB content. The single-phase results reveal that the optimal content of SFs for intelligent building materials ranges from 0.20%∼0.80%
when combined with air content and mechanical performance indicators, while the CB content range ranges from 0.25 wt%∼0.75 wt%. Additionally, the study employs the orthogonal experimental method to determine the mix proportion for intelligent building materials. The experiment selected
orthogonal design conditions with four levels and three factors (including SF types and contents and CB content) and conducts range analysis and variance analysis on the experimental results of each group. The results demonstrate that the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength
of building materials are optimized when the contents of shear-type SFs and CB are 0.40% and 0.75 wt%, respectively.
Determination of hexogen recovered from scrapped 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile mixed explosives by gas chromatography
Authors: Liu Dandan , Mao Yongyang , Fang Xing , Li Chen , Xie Xianjun , Fang Dengzhi
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the extraction of Hexogen (RDX) from decommissioned CS mixed explosives using the Soxhlet extraction method. Recrystallization using a solution of rtnanol is utilized to purify the extract and remove impurities, such as CS. Qualitative analysis is conducted using
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and a melting point tester. Additionally, gas chromatography is employed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the recovered RDX. The experimental results demonstrate that the recovered RDX exhibits a strong linear relationship at concentrations
ranging from 500 mg/L to 6000 mg/L, with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.9999 and a relative standard deviation (RDS) of ≤5% (n = 6). Furthermore, the purity of the recovered RDX can reach 100% through secondary recrystallization using ethanol. The quantitative analysis
of RDX by gas chromatography offers the advantages of operating cylinder, high accuracy and high sensitivity.
Mechanism of lightning damage to glass fiber composite wind turbine blades
Authors: Xie Pengkang , Jiang Lingfeng , Jiang Zhenglong
Published: February 2024

Wind turbine blades (WTBs) are susceptible to lightning damage, resulting in significant costs for repair and replacement, which poses a considerable economic burden on wind farms. Therefore, this study investigates the mechanism of lightning damage of glass fiber composite (GFC)-WTBs
to reduce the risk of such damage. The damage of GFC-WTBs caused by lightning strikes was analyzed using a numerical simulation method. The lightning pilot was simulated using high-voltage rod electrodes, and subsequently, the electric field strength and damage area on the blade surface under
different conditions were measured. Additionally, a simulation model based on finite element analysis was developed to further predict and validate the experimental findings. The results reveal that the maximum electric field intensity was observed in the blade tip. Notably, the electric field
intensity was found to be over 798,000 V/m when the rod electrode was positioned at a 0-degree angle with the blade tip. Further investigation revealed a non-linear and positive correlation between the damage area of GFC and lightning current amplitude, charge, and specific energy. In conclusion,
the study provides a comprehensive examination of the relationship between lightning current and the damage to GFC-WTBs, as well as elucidates the mechanism of lightning damage to GFC-WTBs.
The Southern African Heat Low: Structure, Seasonal and Diurnal Variability, and Climatological Trends
Authors: Attwood Kitty , Washington Richard , Munday Callum
Published: February 2024

Heat lows are key features of subtropical climates and monsoon systems. In southern Africa, they are pivotal to understanding divergent climate change projections, in particular the veracity of future rainfall decline. Compared to other heat lows, including in West Africa and Australia, the southern African heat low remains poorly documented. Here, we analyze the diurnal cycle, seasonal variability, and trends of the heat low in reanalysis data. In ERA5, 462 strong heat low days are detected between September and March from 1990 to 2019, equating to 7.3% of days sampled. These events feature ascent (exceeding −0.2 Pa s−1) at low levels (strongest between 800 and 600 hPa) and subsidence aloft, generating low-level cyclonic flow with anticyclonic flow above. This flow exhibits strong diurnal variability, with peak windspeeds between 0600 and 0900 UTC and maximum ascent at ∼2300 UTC. Heat lows form preferentially over Angola in September (∼14°S) and October (15°–20°S), and in Namibia from November to March (∼20°–26°S). Strongest ascent occurs over areas of high elevation. Finally, we show a rapidly increasing frequency of strong heat low days, with a 175% increase between 1960–89 and 1990–2019. The greatest increase (459%) has occurred in the early summer months of September and October, consistent with projections of delayed rainfall onset. Strikingly, more strong heat lows are detected in the most recent 5 years of analysis (2014–19) than in the 30-yr period from 1960 to 1989. These results suggest the heat low is an important feature in determining drying trends over southern Africa and is a vital indicator of climate model accuracy.

Significance Statement

This work documents the heat low that forms in southern Africa in the lowest levels of the atmosphere. The feature is present during austral summer (from September to March) and is associated with below average rainfall across much of the subcontinent. The frequency of strong heat lows has rapidly increased in line with regional amplified warming trends. The heat low is identified as an important control on circulation and precipitation patterns and changes in the frequency or intensity of the feature in the future are likely to influence the strength of declining rainfall trends across southern Africa.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Pediatric Primary Care Physician Training for Anxiety Screening and Evidence-based Intervention
Authors: Wojtaszek Julie A. , Ham Hannah L. , Bruni Teryn P. , Sunde Eleah , Drossel Claudia , Maragakis Alexandros
Published: February 2024

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent psychological conditions in the pediatric population, and its associated impairments often persist into adulthood. Pediatricians are in a unique position to screen, briefly intervene, and facilitate treatment to prevent long-term impacts. However, they often do not have adequate training to do so. The current study addressed this gap by providing a brief online educational workshop aimed to promote: (1) screening for anxiety and (2) follow-up with appropriate evidence-based interventions. Fifty-three providers participated, and 38 completed surveys pre- and post-training. Findings indicate acceptability of the training to providers, improved knowledge related to anxiety, and increased readiness to manage anxiety during a medical visit. This study supports the utility of a brief, online training on screening and provision of evidence-based treatment for anxiety in pediatric primary care.
The Gap Between What Parents Need and How Pediatric Primary Care Providers Can Help Families of Children With Special Education Needs
Authors: Stransky Michelle L. , van Waes Alexandra , Fernandez-Pastrañ a Ivys , Scott Hilana , Adolphe Soukaina
Published: February 2024

We describe the gap between parents’ special education needs and pediatric primary care providers’ (PCPs) ability to address those needs from a mixed-methods study at a safety-net hospital. We conducted qualitative interviews with English- and Spanish-speaking parents (n = 25) and PCPs (n = 11) about special education knowledge and experience and interactions with a primary care–embedded special education clinic. PCPs also answered survey questions on these topics. Parents reported four challenges: (1) knowing where to start and how to advocate for their youth, (2) being heard or having a say, (3) using the “right” language, and (4) gathering information on special education resources. Primary care providers disclosed three barriers: (1) training, (2) knowledge to assess the appropriateness of supports, and (3) time to address concerns. The gap between PCPs and parents was bridged by the special education clinic. Systematic interventions can ensure that PCPs help parents address the special education needs of their patients.
Water Resource Management in India: Problems and Prospects
Authors: David Supriya
Published: February 2024

Water resource management is one of the most intractable challenges for planners and policymakers today. Given the limited supply, continuously growing demand and declining quality of freshwater, it is imperative to safeguard and effectively manage this resource. In order to effectively address significant challenges to human health and environmental deterioration, it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive strategy for managing freshwater and wastewater. This approach should include inventive and context-specific methods, as well as active involvement from local communities. To attain better development outcomes, water must be made an integral part of all planning and management. Water had its impact on a wide range of aspects impinging on human wellbeing, from agricultural sustainability to food security, and further, environmental security. Therefore, it calls for a systematic thorough management.
Beyond Death: Exploring Cultural Perceptions in Cadaveric Organ Donation
Authors: Karataş Hicran
Published: February 2024

Advancements in medicine introduced a relatively invented death into our lives: Brain Death. It intermingles with our perceptions of classical death due to knowing the heart is beating, the color of the skin is pink, and the body’s temperature is warm. Hence, accepting brain death as death might get complicated in terms of relatives of the brain-dead person. The interviews revealed that the reluctance to cadaveric organ donations is highly connected to the cultural perception of death. Furthermore, folklore interferes with altruistic cadaveric donations, particularly folk beliefs, rituals, social norms, and oral traditions.
The Effects of Combined Virtual Reality Exercises and Robot Assisted Gait Training on Cognitive Functions, Daily Living Activities, and Quality of Life in High Functioning Individuals With Subacute Stroke
Authors: Akinci Murat , Burak Mustafa , Kasal Fatma Zehra , Özaslan Ezgi Aydın , Huri Meral , Kurtaran Zeynep Aydan
Published: February 2024

Stroke is a global health concern causing significant mortality. Survivors face physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, affecting their life satisfaction and social participation. Robot-assisted gait training with virtual reality, like Lokomat, is a promising rehabilitation tool. We investigated its impact on cognitive status, activities of daily living, and quality of life in individuals with stroke. Between September 2022 and August 2023, we exposed 34 first stroke patients (8 women, 26 men; M age = 59.15 , SD = 11.09; M height = 170.47, SD = 8.13 cm; M weight = 75.97; SD = 10.87 kg; M days since stroke = 70.44, SD = 33.65) in the subacute stage (3–6 months post-stroke) to Lokomat exercise. Participant exclusion criteria were Lokamat exercise inability, disabilities incompatible with intended measurements, and any cognitive limitations. The Control Group (CG) received conventional physiotherapy, while the Lokomat Group (LG) received both conventional physiotherapy and robot-assisted gait training with virtual reality, administered by an occupational therapist. Evaluations were conducted by a physiotherapist who was unaware of the participants’ group assignments and included assessments with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Lawton Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QoL). Both groups demonstrated an improved quality of life, but the LG outperformed the CG with regard to SS-QoL (p = .01) on measures of Energy ( p = .002) and Mobility ( p = .005). Both groups showed improvements in cognitive functioning ( p < .001) with no between-group difference, and in activities of daily living ( p < .05) for which the LG was superior to the CG ( p = .023). Thus, adding robot-assisted gait training with Lokomat and virtual reality improved self-reported quality of life and daily activities at levels beyond conventional physiotherapy for patients in the subacute stroke phase. An incremental impact on cognitive functions was not evident, possibly due to rapid cognitive recovery or this was undetected by limited cognitive testing.
Outline of a critical sociology of free speech in everyday life: Beyond liberal approaches
Authors: Roberts John Michael
Published: February 2024

Critical sociologists have been conspicuous by their absence in theoretical debates about free speech in everyday life. The aim of this article is to address this missing gap in critical sociology by making some tentative suggestions about how such a theory might advance. Drawing mainly from the ideas of Pierre Bourdieu and Judith Butler, the article suggests that free speech occurs when coalitions come together in venues to discuss the possession and dispossession of certain resources; resources that coalitional members enjoy or are denied from enjoying in social fields. If a coalition engages in dialogue and other types of expression that pushes for an equal distribution of different resources so as to make lives more liveable, then the coalition will most likely also be constructing subversive ‘heretical discourse’. Furthermore, the coalition will also most likely be challenging dominant and hegemonic symbolic constructions of ‘linguistic competence’ in a social field. The article develops these points by analysing two prominent liberal schools of thought on free speech: the marketplace of ideas school and the deliberative school. The article argues that these liberal schools cannot satisfactorily account for power relations and complexity of identity formation in relation to free speech.
Young people, place-based stigma and resistance: A case study of Glasgow’s East End
Authors: McBride Maureen
Published: February 2024

This article analyses working-class young people’s perceptions of and resistance to place-based stigma, through a case study of a youth-led theatre project in the East End of Glasgow, UK. The impact of stigma on working-class communities is well-established; through the effects of poverty and inequality people and places are stigmatised. Although existing literature emphasises that we must recognise how working-class people construct alternative narratives, there is limited evidence on how people in neighbourhoods with high levels of poverty manage and resist stigma. There is a dearth of research on young people’s resistance to stigma. This qualitative study found promising signs of young people’s agency to resist place-based stigma by constructing alternative narratives. Through creative work, young people were able to convey powerful messages around poverty-related issues, making visible the effects of poverty on individuals and communities and encouraging empathy and understanding. However, it was also evident that individualistic understandings of poverty are so powerfully ingrained that these alternative narratives stopped short of an explicit recognition of structural causes of poverty. This article argues that viewing resistance as a process helps to identify possibilities for supporting young people to further develop critical consciousness, to confront stigmatising discourses in a way that exposes power relations, and to generate activism.
Exploring the Role UK Grandfathers Play in Parenting Culture: Intermittent Intensive Grandfathering
Authors: Kerrane Ben , Kerrane Katy , Bettany Shona
Published: February 2024

Grandparents play an increasingly active caregiving role in contemporary family life. However, specific exploration of grandfatherhood and its practice is rare. This article explores how intensive parenting norms inform men’s performance of grandfathering in the United Kingdom, with ageing offering men a ‘second chance’ to (grand)parent in ways qualitatively different from fathering. In-depth interviews with UK grandfathers revealed that while they displayed ‘involved’ grandfatherhood and practised elements of intensive grandfathering, this was often in typically masculine ways. Men embraced the competitive nature of intensive parenting, particularly around educational development, and advancement. Other elements of intensive parenting (e.g. expert-dependence, over-protectiveness and self-sacrifice) were, however, overlooked. Accordingly, we introduce ‘intermittent intensive grandfathering’, recognising discontinuities in the childcare tasks that participants would/would not involve themselves.
Including Students With Visual Impairments in Local Schools of Ethiopia: Availability of Resources and Support Services
Authors: Tesfaye Ermias Kibreab , Hailu Belay Hagos
Published: February 2024

Introduction: This study assessed the availability of resources and school supports for students with visual impairments who were mainstreamed in local primary and secondary schools of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A qualitative research approach was used where a semi-structured interview was the tool for gathering primary data from students with visual impairments and special needs education specialists at inclusive education resource centers at the sampled schools. A total of 13 students (5 male, 8 female) with visual impairments were drawn from 2 primary and 4 secondary schools. To ensure the credibility of the study findings, a triangulation of sources and member checks were used. Results: Establishment of inclusive education resource centers and deployment of special needs education specialists were considered promising practices in improving the quality of inclusive education at local schools. Some efforts, like pairing students with visual impairments with sighted peers and administering examinations by subject teachers, need to be strengthened at schools. Multiple challenges were also identified including shortage of resources like textbooks and reference books in braille, braille writing materials, and audio materials. Students with visual impairments encountered challenges during examinations and assignments. The level of support provided by inclusive education resource centers was also found to be below expectations. Discussion: The findings of the current study support previous research in the area, in which students with visual impairments were found to face challenges in accessing resources and appropriate supports. In contrast to earlier findings, however, the current study documented relatively better support for students with visual impairment from sighted peers. Implications for Practice: Policymakers need to closely follow up and check the implementation of various policies and working documents prepared to promote quality inclusive education. Educators and families of students with visual impairments can also use these findings to advocate for improved services.
Minimal configuration point cloud odometry and mapping
Authors: Bhandari Vedant , Phillips Tyson Govan , McAree Peter Ross
Published: February 2024

Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) refers to the common requirement for autonomous platforms to estimate their pose and map their surroundings. There are many robust and real-time methods available for solving the SLAM problem. Most are divided into a front-end, which performs incremental pose estimation, and a back-end, which smooths and corrects the results. A low-drift front-end odometry solution is needed for robust and accurate back-end performance. Front-end methods employ various techniques, such as point cloud-to-point cloud (PC2PC) registration, key feature extraction and matching, and deep learning-based approaches. The front-end algorithms have become increasingly complex in the search for low-drift solutions and many now have large configuration parameter sets. It is desirable that the front-end algorithm should be inherently robust so that it does not need to be tuned by several, perhaps many, configuration parameters to achieve low drift in various environments. To address this issue, we propose Simple Mapping and Localization Estimation (SiMpLE), a front-end LiDAR-only odometry method that requires five low-sensitivity configurable parameters. SiMpLE is a scan-to-map point cloud registration algorithm that is straightforward to understand, configure, and implement. We evaluate SiMpLE using the KITTI, MulRan, UrbanNav, and a dataset created at the University of Queensland. SiMpLE performs among the top-ranked algorithms in the KITTI dataset and outperformed all prominent open-source approaches in the MulRan dataset whilst having the smallest configuration set. The UQ dataset also demonstrated accurate odometry with low-density point clouds using Velodyne VLP-16 and Livox Horizon LiDARs. SiMpLE is a front-end odometry solution that can be integrated with other sensing modalities and pose graph-based back-end methods for increased accuracy and long-term mapping. The lightweight and portable code for SiMpLE is available at: https://github.com/vb44/SiMpLE .
Epoxidase inhibitor-aspirin resistance and the relationship with genetic polymorphisms: a review
Authors: Hou Xiaolin
Published: February 2024

Strokes are the leading cause of death in most regions of the world. Epoxidase inhibitors include the drug aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid). Aspirin is widely used as first-line treatment for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in at-risk patients. However, patients using conventional doses of aspirin can still develop ischaemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, a phenomenon known as aspirin resistance. The occurrence of aspirin resistance hinders the prevention and treatment of ischaemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. There are many factors affecting aspirin resistance, such as sex, drug dose, metabolic disease, genetic polymorphisms, drug interactions and pharmacokinetics. Genetic polymorphism refers to the simultaneous and frequent presence of two or more discontinuous variants or genotypes or alleles in a population of organisms. Platelets contain a large number of highly polymorphic transmembrane glycoprotein receptors encoded by two or more isomeric alleles. Changes in gene polymorphisms in various pathways during platelet aggregation can lead to aspirin resistance. This narrative review describes the gene polymorphisms that have been demonstrated to be significantly associated with aspirin resistance. Research on the mechanisms of aspirin resistance and increased knowledge should provide accurate drug guidance in individuals that require first-line antiplatelet therapy.
Penile traumatic testicular dislocation: a case report
Authors: Chi Ze-Pai , Zhang Yong-Hai
Published: February 2024

Traumatic testicular dislocation is rare and usually occurs in patients after a traumatic motor accident. Manual reduction or surgical exploration is the main treatment for this condition. We report a rare case of unilateral traumatic testicular dislocation in a man with an ectopic testis in the middle of the penis after a motorcycle crash injury. On the sixth day of hospitalization, the patient found a lump in the middle of his penis. Doppler ultrasound showed an ectopic testicle in the middle of the penis with good blood flow. After consultation, a manual reduction was successfully performed. A careful physical examination should be performed in patients with multiple injuries from the first medical exam. Early detection and timely reduction are critical to protect testicular function.
Periprosthetic hip infections caused by Brucella: a rare case report and literature review
Authors: Feng Jun Wei , Hao Peng , Hu Jiang , Deng Xia , Wang Yue
Published: February 2024

Periprosthetic hip infection caused by Brucella abortus is rare and only a few cases have been reported. This current case report presents a case of a man in his early 50s who developed periprosthetic hip infection 2 years after right hip arthroplasty. There was no fever or pain, the usual cardinal signs of infection, except for a sinus tract at the previous surgical incision. Laboratory and arthrocentesis culture examinations (done twice) confirmed infection with B. abortus. Accordingly, a two-stage revision surgery was performed accompanied by antibiotic treatment with doxycycline and rifampicin after each stage. There was no recurrence at the 2-year follow-up, with good functional recovery of the hip joint. Clinically, this case serves to highlight the fact that periprosthetic hip infections caused by B. abortus might not present with the typical symptoms such as fever or hip pain. Furthermore, this current case involved a chronic sinus tract, so the diagnostic and therapeutic course of this case offers useful insights for managing similar cases in the future. In addition, a review of the literature on the diagnosis and treatment of Brucella-caused periprosthetic hip infection is presented.
Reading in the dark: Shifting governmentalities and the spatial dimensions of legible U.S. flood risk
Authors: Brundidge Troy
Published: February 2024

Following the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, U.S. private insurers abandoned flood coverage after deeming it incalculable, precipitating the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in 1968. The NFIP continued to underwrite illegible risk in the public interest. For decades, hydraulic models were limited to simplified “one-dimensional” simulations ill-equipped to characterize uncertainty to the standard of market carriers. However, recent advancements in multidimensional characterization have galvanized the flood sector. The NFIP has licensed some of the most expansive 2-D models to date from eager tech firms; it has pledged to modernize its risk portfolio, invest in financing, and attract private carriers in order to “lift all boats” within the flood sector. This article intervenes by examining the “multidimensional turn” as a fix for “crises of calculation.” The article rejects teleological narratives crediting models for “changing how we think” about flood, and illustrates how underwriters enframe illegible floodplains as unruly problems. The incalculability of flood risk is an “insurantial logic” naturalized as a physical truth. Economic geographers have interrogated the materiality of such truths as integral to the production of nature under capitalism. The article examines how invested state and non-state actors operationalize impediments to legible risk to realize their financial interests. It further argues that FEMA’s costly efforts to realize an allusive market are undermined by intractable conflicts between pure-market and affordable coverage. The NFIP will likely continue to do the heavy lifting with respect to underwriting, and selective geographies of private coverage will mirror the drive for surplus value.
Effects of the morphed trailing-edge flap parameters on the aerodynamic performance of NREL Phase II wind turbine
Authors: Yin Rui , Xie Jian-Bin , Yao Ji
Published: February 2024

This study assesses the impact of three morphed trailing-edge flap (MTEF) parameters (flap deflection angle β, flap length b, and flap span length l) on increasing power and axial thrust coefficients and their comprehensive effect on wind turbines using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. The detailed analysis is performed on seven morphed blades at eight different wind velocities. The obtained results show that β results in the largest unit power coefficient increase rate and unit axial thrust coefficient increase rate, while l results in the smallest ones. In addition, b results in the largest power-thrust ratio increase rate. The optimum blade is achieved for β = 3°, b/ c = 0.3, and l/ R = 0.3, which results in additional power increase of 15.24% and axial thrust increase of 9.53% at a tip speed ratio of 5.949, compared with the original wind turbine.
Physiologic benefits of veno-pulmonary extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for COVID-19 ARDS: A single center experience
Authors: Grotberg John C , Greenberg Jon , Sullivan Mary , Pawale Amit A , Kotkar Kunal D , Masood Muhammad F
Published: February 2024

Background:

A subset of patients with COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Veno-pulmonary (VP) ECMO provides support to the right ventricle and decreased risk of recirculation.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients with COVID-19 ARDS and VP ECMO was performed. Patients were separated into groups by indication (1) “right ventricular (RV) failure,” (2) “refractory hypoxemia,” and (3) “recurrent suck-down events (SDEs).” Pre- and post-configuration vasoactive inotropic scores (VIS), fraction of inspired oxygen (FIO2), and resolution of SDEs were reported. A 90-day mortality was computed for all groups. Patients were also compared to those who underwent conventional venovenous (VV) ECMO.

Results:

Forty-seven patients underwent VP ECMO configuration, 18 in group 1, 16 in group 2, and 8 in group 3. Ninety-day mortality was 66% for the entire cohort and was 77.8%, 81.3% and 37.5% for groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Mean VIS decreased in group 1 (8.3 vs 2.9, p = 0.005), while mean FIO2 decreased in the group 2 and was sustained at 72 h (82.5% vs 52.5% and 47.5%, p < 0.001). Six of the eight (75%) of patients with recurrent SDEs had resolution of these events after configuration to VP ECMO. Patients with VP ECMO spent more days on ECMO (33 days compared to 18 days, p = 0.004) with no difference in mortality (66% compared to 55.1%, p = 0.28).

Conclusion:

VP ECMO in COVID-19 ARDS improves hemodynamics in patients with RV failure, improves oxygenation in patients with refractory hypoxemia and improves the frequency of SDEs.
Reminiscence Therapy and Music With Older Adults: A Descriptive Study Investigating the Current Views and Practices of Australian Aged Care Providers and Volunteers
Authors: Engelbrecht Romy , Bhar Sunil , Shoemark Helen , Elphinstone Bradley , Ciorciari Joseph
Published: February 2024

Reminiscence therapy and music are often used to improve the wellbeing of older people; however, we do not know how these interventions are used in practice. This study explored how those working with older people view and use verbal Reminiscence Therapy (VRT) and Music-assisted Reminiscence Therapy (MRT). A total of 110 participants who worked or volunteered with older people in Australia were surveyed in this descriptive, mixed-method study. VRT and MRT were frequently and spontaneously used to respond to the varied needs of older adults. VRT and MRT lead to reported positive outcomes including better care practices, positive affect and mood, and improved social connections. MRT was used as a compensatory strategy when traditional VRT was not possible. This study describes the current practices of VRT and MRT, and an overview of how reminiscence-based approaches are used in Australia to address the health and wellbeing of older people.
Assessing the Landscape of Lactation Education: Results of a Pilot Survey
Authors: Lima Hope Katherine , Licata Ashley , Mattos Shondra
Published: February 2024

Background:

The field of lactation currently uses breastfeeding rates to measure effectiveness. While monitoring breastfeeding outcomes can provide insight into the successes of lactation consulting as a profession, the improvement of breastfeeding outcomes is a multifactorial issue. In order to facilitate the growth of lactation education processes, understanding experiences during training and perceptions of readiness of current International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) for clinical practice is necessary.

Research Aim:

The aim of this survey was to provide a baseline assessment of the current landscape of the lactation profession through data related to certification, job market, practice confidence after passing the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) certifying examination, and perceptions of specializations.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was used to assess the experiences of practicing IBCLCs. Non-probability convenience sampling was implemented from December 2021 through January 2022. A total of 281 unique responses were recorded with complete data on variables of interest.

Results:

The majority of respondents were white females under age 50 located in the United States. The majority of respondents were certified through a Pathway 1. The largest barrier to certification was reported to be a lack of clinical/mentorship opportunities. Respondents were significantly more confident in providing entry-level support to dyads when mentored by four or more preceptors.

Conclusion:

Diversification of the field of lactation is necessary to provide appropriate support to lactating families in the United States. Additionally, addressing the barrier of accessing clinical/mentorship opportunities is essential for continued growth of the field of lactation.
Unravelling the relationship between employment, social transfers and income poverty: Policy and measurement
Authors: Gábos András , Binder Barbara , Branyiczki Réka , Tóth István György
Published: February 2024

Despite the rise in employment, consistently high EU-average poverty rates continue to generate debates about the factors that explain the level and changes in the relative poverty rate, both within and across countries. Assuming a strong negative correlation between poverty and employment, the article investigates the role of four mechanisms responsible for this blurred relationship. Using decomposition analysis and macro-level regression analysis, we investigate the extent to which (i) the distribution of employment across households with different levels of work intensity, (ii) the expansion of non-standard work, (iii) the change in the effectiveness of social welfare systems, and (iv) the change in median income and the corresponding shift in the poverty threshold have contributed to changes in relative income poverty in the last decades. We found that employment growth benefits poverty reduction, but this positive effect was partially offset by the precarious characteristics of some newly created jobs. If the distribution of jobs had favoured the jobless more in the pre-crisis period, the relative income poverty rate would have been lower. Although the share of persons in jobless households decreased during the recovery years, their risk of poverty increased due to the retrenchment of social transfers during and after the Great Recession. Furthermore, the use of a floating threshold, which is linked to changes in median income, underestimates the strength of the relationships between poverty, employment and social transfers: when the poverty threshold is kept fixed, not only do the dynamics of poverty look different, but the estimated coefficients are considerably larger.