bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary Game Analysis of the Innovation and Diffusion of Water-Saving Technology
Authors: Xu Lianyan , Huang Dechun , He Zhengqi , Cao Jie
Published: June 2023

Water resources are indispensable strategic primary resources for sustainable social development. To solve the water shortage problem, promoting the innovation and diffusion of water-saving technology is the key to improvement. In contrast, governmental regulation is a necessary means to promote the innovation of water-saving technology. This study builds a game model with the involvement of governments and businesses. The objective of the game model is to simulate the performance of imposing a tax or a subsidy to promote water-saving technology. In addition, this study introduces the bionic model Lotka–Volterra to investigate the diffusion process of water-saving technology by simulating the performance of the growth rate and competition coefficient. To explain this process more scientifically and intuitively, this paper uses MATLAB to simulate it. The results show that (i) when the subsidy coefficient is between 0.6 and 0.7, the enthusiasm of the government and enterprises to participate in innovating water-saving technology is high; (ii) when the tax penalty coefficient is higher than 0.8, it can not only motivate governmental control but also promote the innovation of enterprises’ water-saving technology; and (iii) the final equilibrium of the diffusion of water-saving technology is irrelevant to the growth rate in the long term, but it is closely related to the competition coefficient. Based on the above conclusions, this paper puts forward some relevant political suggestions to promote the innovation and diffusion of water-saving technology, such as reasonably increasing the water resources tax and government subsidies.
Policy Note: Government Linked Companies (GLCs) as Investors in Water Sector in China: Implications for Public–Private Partnership (PPP)
Authors: Zheng Xiaoting , Wu Xun
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the role of government-linked companies (GLCs) in public–private partnerships (PPPs) for urban water supply in China. GLCs are corporations in which the government has significant ownership, control and influence while being registered under the same corporate law as private companies. Separate from local governments that own water utilities, they form contractual relationships with local governments (or water utilities owned by local governments) under PPP arrangements, rendering them more accountable and profit-driven. We analyze an emerging PPP model in China’s water sector, where GLCs serve as major investors, and assess their effectiveness and limitations. Our findings indicate that the involvement of GLCs improves water utilities’ performance, and the quality of their water supply services, while offering potential advantages such as stronger financial capability, higher political risk resistance capacity, and mitigation of public tension. However, concerns persist about risk-sharing, political interference, and local government control. This research contributes to understanding the evolving landscape of PPPs in China’s water sector and the potential implications of GLC involvement for urban water supply systems globally.
A Cooperative Localization Method for Leader–Follower Multiple UAVs Using Continuous Relative Ranging Information
Authors: Zhu Xudong , Lai Jizhou , Zhou Benchuan , Lv Pin , Chen Sheng
Published: June 2023

Cooperative localization (CL) utilizing multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has become the current development trend and research hotspot. The traditional distance-based CL method typically uses principle of the spherical intersection to achieve UAV high-precision positioning. However, this distance-based CL strategy requires several leader UAVs at the known positions. Thus, a cooperative localization method for leader–follower multiple UAVs using continuous relative ranging information is proposed in this paper. Aiming at the UAV formation consists of a leader UAV node with the known position and at least a follower UAV that needs to be located. Using the Inertial short-time high-precision relative position constraint and the continuous relative distance constraints with the leader UAV nodes, the closed-form solution of follower UAV’s three-dimensional position can be obtained using spherical intersection principle. On this basis, we derive and construct follower UAV’s position observation equation. The developed strategy requires a single known position leader UAV node to realize high-precision CL, which can effectively solve the traditional distance-based collaborative location problem in case the number of leader UAVs is small. The simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly improves follower UAV’s positioning accuracy, and neglects the limitation of the traditional distance-based CL method on the number of leader UAV nodes at known positions.
HIERARCHICAL EFFECTS OF PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSES AND FISCAL POLICY MEASURES ON TAX MORALE OF ENTREPRENEURIAL FIRMS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN NIGERIA
Authors: RAIMI LUKMAN , AGBETUNDE LATEEF A. , RAIMI BASIRAT OLAIDE
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the hierarchical effects of Public Health Responses (PHRs) and fiscal policy measures (FPMs) on the tax morale (TM) of entrepreneurial firms in Nigeria during the COVID-19 pandemic. The theoretical basis for the study is based on social contract theory (SCT) and fiscal exchange theory (FET), which oblige entrepreneurs to pay taxes to the state in return for public goods and social services. Using a cross-sectional survey design, we collected primary data from 177 professional managers of entrepreneurial firms in Nigeria using online questionnaires. The sampled firms were accessed with the support of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce. Data collected at a point in time reflecting respondents’ views on the impact of PHRs and FPMs on TM were analyzed using hierarchical regression analysis. Three estimates emerged from the hierarchical regression analyses. The first estimation suggests that the PHRs have a significant positive effect on the TM of entrepreneurial firms. The second estimate suggests that the FPMs do not have a significant positive effect on the TM of entrepreneurial firms. The third estimation found that the interactive effects of PHRs and FPMs do not have a significant positive effect on the TM of entrepreneurial firms. The study, although modest, contributes to the literature on the entrepreneurial behavior of firms and tax morals in a period of economic uncertainty. The study provides valuable insights and validates the social contract and fiscal exchange theories in the recessionary period.
Car-Following-Response-Based Vehicle Classification via Deep Learning
Authors: Li Tianyi , Stern Raphael
Published: June 2023

The driving characteristics of individual vehicles in the flow have been shown to influence the aggregate traffic flow characteristics. This is true both for individual human drivers as well as vehicles with some level of automation, such as adaptive cruise control (ACC). Knowledge of the individual constituents of the traffic flow will allow for more advanced traffic control strategies that are tailored to the individual vehicles and their respective driving characteristics. Therefore, there is a need to rapidly assess the car-following dynamics of individual vehicles and identify their level of automation based on their car-following trajectory. This study proposed a time-series based deep learning classification method to classify and identify human-driven and driver-assist vehicles in real-time from driving data. Powered by the recent advances in deep learning, we are able to identify individual vehicles in the flow using only car-following trajectory data and identify both ACC vehicles and human drivers. This article represents the first step toward assessing vehicle characteristics in real time. Furthermore, the proposed method can classify vehicles within a couple of seconds with high accuracy. Comparison with existing state-of-the-art methods shows the superior performance of the proposed method.
Real-time Road Network Optimization with Coordinated Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Gunarathna Udesh , Xie Hairuo , Tanin Egemen , Karunasekera Shanika , Borovica-Gajic Renata
Published: June 2023

Dynamic road network optimization has been used for improving traffic flow in an infrequent and localized manner. The development of intelligent systems and technology provides an opportunity to improve the frequency and scale of dynamic road network optimization. However, such improvements are hindered by the high computational complexity of the existing algorithms that generate the optimization plans. We present a novel solution that integrates machine learning and road network optimization. Our solution consists of two complementary parts. The first part is an efficient algorithm that uses reinforcement learning to find the best road network configurations at real-time. The second part is a dynamic routing mechanism, which helps connected vehicles adapt to the change of the road network. Our extensive experimental results demonstrate that the proposed solution can substantially reduce the average travel time in a variety of scenarios, whilst being computationally efficient and hence applicable to real-life situations.
Transient-Execution Attacks: A Computer Architect Perspective
Authors: Fiolhais Luís , Sousa Leonel
Published: June 2023

Computer architects employ a series of performance optimizations at the micro-architecture level. These optimizations are meant to be invisible to the programmer but they are implicitly programmed alongside the architectural state. Critically, the incorrect results of these optimizations are not scrubbed off the micro-architectural state. This side-effect may seem innocuous. However, through transient-execution, an attacker can leverage this knowledge to obtain information from the micro-architectural state and transmit the data to itself. Transient-Execution is a class of attacks that use the side-effects of executed instructions to leak data. Transient-Execution attacks are split into two categories: speculation-based (Spectre-type) and exception-based (Meltdown-type). A successful attack requires, first, access to the sensitive information, and, second, a transmission channel such that the data can be recovered. Therefore, this survey explains how an attacker can use the state from optimizations in the micro-architecture to access sensitive information from other programs running in the same device; and, once the information is obtained, it describes how the data can be encoded and transmitted in the micro-architectural state. Moreover, it introduces a taxonomy and analyzes defenses for such malicious attacks.
A Study on the Formation and Change of Yesso Scallop Odor Characteristics by GC-O-MS, Sensory Evaluation, and Flavor-Precursor Analysis
Authors: Fu Runze , Su Jianhui , He Yu , Wang Shuai
Published: June 2023

Scallops are exposed to drying and hypoxia for a long duration in the supply chain, leading to quality deterioration and changes in odor characteristics. In this study, quality deterioration of Yesso scallop was simulated under different conditions to explore the formation and change of its unique aroma. Its volatile components were analyzed by partial least squares (PLS) regression, GC-O, and smell threshold, and its odor characteristics were analyzed with reference to flavor precursors. The sensory descriptors selected comprehensively described the odor characteristics of Yesso scallop. The 16 most relevant volatile components for each odor characteristic were identified, and a new star-mark grading method was established to evaluate the role of volatile components in the formation of odor characteristics. The possible odor precursors were determined, providing preliminary information on the generation of pleasant and unpleasant odor characteristics by Yesso scallops. Thus, our results provide a scientific basis for the further study and control of the odor characteristics of aquatic products.
A Case of New-Onset Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Schizophrenia in a 14-Year-Old Male following the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bibawy Daniel , Barco Jennyferd , Sounboolian Yeghia , Atodaria Priya
Published: June 2023

The post-COVID-19 era has introduced novel cases of psychiatric complications that are either organic or purely psychological in nature due to social isolation. This report details a case of new-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia following the COVID-19 pandemic. The novelty of this case lies in the onset of the patient’s symptoms in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, without prior predisposing risks in the environmental, social, or biological aspects. We provided therapeutic treatment to the patient in an inpatient setting, while examining the patient to decipher the root cause of his symptoms. While there is substantial data suggesting exacerbations of OCD during the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population and a new onset of schizophrenia due to the virus itself, very little is known about the prevalence of either OCD or schizophrenia after the pandemic. With this in mind, we hope to provide more information regarding new-onset psychosis and OCD within the adolescent population. A considerable amount of studies and data are needed in this subset of the population.
Comparison of Biological Properties and Clinical Application of Mesenchymal Stem Cells from the Mesoderm and Ectoderm
Authors: Wang Zhenning , Huang Meng , Zhang Yu , Jiang Xiaoxia , Xu Lulu
Published: June 2023

Since the discovery of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the 1970s, they have been widely used in the treatment of a variety of diseases because of their wide sources, strong differentiation potential, rapid expansion in vitro, low immunogenicity, and so on. At present, most of the related research is on mesoderm-derived MSCs (M-MSCs) such as bone marrow MSCs and adipose-derived MSCs. As a type of MSC, ectoderm-derived MSCs (E-MSCs) have a stronger potential for self-renewal, multidirectional differentiation, and immunomodulation and have more advantages than M-MSCs in some specific conditions. This paper analyzes the relevant research development of E-MSCs compared with that of M-MSCs; summarizes the extraction, discrimination and culture, biological characteristics, and clinical application of E-MSCs; and discusses the application prospects of E-MSCs. This summary provides a theoretical basis for the better application of MSCs from both ectoderm and mesoderm in the future.
Solving the SAT Problem by Cell-Like P Systems with Channel States and Symport Rules
Authors: Wan Xiaoming , Liu Chuchuan , Luo Yueguo
Published: June 2023

Cell-like P systems with channel states, which are a variant of tissue P systems in membrane computing, can be viewed as highly parallel computing devices based on the nested structure of cells, where communication rules are classified as symport rules and antiport rules. In this work, we remove the antiport rules and construct a novel variant, namely, cell-like P systems with channel states and symport rules, where one rule is only allowed to be nondeterministically applied once per channel. To explore the computational efficiency of the variant, we solve the

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problem and obtain a uniform solution in polynomial time with the maximal length of rules 1. The results of our work are reflected in the following two aspects: first, communication rules are restricted to only one type, namely, symport rules; second, the maximal length of rules is decreased from 2 to 1. Our work indicates that the constructed variant with fewer rule types can still solve the

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problem and obtain better results in terms of computational complexity. Hence, in terms of computational efficiency, our work is a notable improvement.
First Two Cases of Conservative Treatment for Extreme Proximal Penile Fracture of the Corpora Cavernosa
Authors: Blondeau Alicia , Grandmougin Aurélie , Larose Clément , Mazeaud Charles
Published: June 2023

Penile fracture is a urological emergency, and surgery is usually recommended to prevent complications. However, proximal locations are scarce and not well investigated. We present two rare penile fractures involving the proximal corpora cavernosa with an original conservative strategy to manage this clinical presentation. Twenty-five- and thirty-eight-year-old men with no previous medical history were admitted to the emergency room for penile trauma during sexual intercourse a few months apart. Both presented with “butterfly pattern” ecchymosis with a palpable hematoma on the perineum. They had no hematuria or voiding dysfunction. Ultrasound found a hematoma and a tear of the proximal corpus cavernosum for the younger one. Then, an MRI confirmed a longitudinal fracture of the right corpus cavernosum for the first patient and left for the second, without urethral injury. In agreement with the patients facing this atypical presentation, we proposed a conservative treatment with analgesics, monitoring, and advice to stop sexual activity for three weeks. After six weeks and four weeks, respectively, we performed a clinical evaluation and a second MRI that found no residual tear or hematoma. The IIEF-5 questionnaire was 24/25 and 25/25. The patients were clinically symptom-free at 8 and 11 months of follow-up. Extreme proximal fracture of the corpus cavernosum can be managed conservatively in selected situations. MRI is useful for decision-making by confirming the diagnosis and location to avoid surgery.
A Digital Twin‐Based Visual Servoing with Extreme Learning Machine and Differential Evolution
Authors: Cheng Minghao , Tang Hao , Khan Asad , Melethil Sethumadhavan Syam , Assam Muhammad , Li Di , Ghadi Yazeed Yasin , Mohamed Heba G. , Bhatti Uzair Aslam
Published: June 2023

The technology of visual servoing, with the digital twin as its driving force, holds great promise and advantages for enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of smart manufacturing assembly and dispensing applications. The effective deployment of visual servoing is contingent upon the robust and accurate estimation of the vision‐motion correlation. Network‐based methodologies are frequently employed in visual servoing to approximate the mapping between 2D image feature errors and 3D velocities, offering promising avenues for improving the accuracy and reliability of visual servoing systems. These developments have the potential to fully leverage the capabilities of digital twin technology in the realm of smart manufacturing. However, obtaining sufficient training data for these methods is challenging, and thus improving model generalization to reduce data requirements is imperative. To address this issue, we offer a learning‐based approach for estimating Jacobian matrices of visual servoing that organically combines an extreme learning machine (ELM) and a differential evolutionary algorithm (DE). In the first stage, the pseudoinverse of the image Jacobian matrix is approximated using the ELM, which solves the problems associated with traditional visual servoing and is resistant to outside influences such as image noise and mistakes in camera calibration. In the second stage, differential evolution is utilized to select input weights and hidden layer bias and to determine ELM’s output weights. Experimental results conducted on a digital twin operating platform for 4‐DOF robot with an eye‐in‐hand configuration demonstrate better performance than classical visual servoing and traditional ELM‐based visual servoing in various cases.
Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Chitosan Nanolipid Carrier Inhibits Intestinal Carcinoma via Restraining NF-κB Activity
Authors: Zhu Liangrun , Jiang Qingyu , Fang Jun , Bian Gang
Published: June 2023

Background: Glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a potent neurotrophic factor, which has been shown to affect the metastasis and invasion of cancer cells. The molecular mechanism of GDNF is still unclear. Here, we investigate the mechanism of GDNF embedded in chitosan (CS) nano lipid carrier in colorectal cancer.Methods: Electron microscopy was used to detect the relationship between the characteristics of GDNF chitosan (CS) coated nano lipid carrier, MTT and apoptosis tests were used to detect the effect of GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier expression on the proliferation ability of intestinal cancer cells, and immunofluorescence was used to detect the effect of GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier expression on NF-KB signal. The results were verified by western-blot.In vivousing a mouse model.Results: GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier showed positive zeta value, indicating that the process of CS coating GDNF was successful. OD values of nanocomposites at different concentrations were measured by UV spectrophotometer with MTT. Our data showed that the experimental group showed a relationship between concentration and dose dependent on tolerance growth, indicating that GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier had better anti-tumor activity in colorectal cancer cell lines. Compared with most GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier groups, the expression of NF-κB immunofluorescence detection signal was inhibited, and the expression of NF-κB was down-regulated in colorectal cancer.In vivoresults showed that the measured tumor volume decreased after treatment with GDNF chitosan nanoparticle lipid carrier, and the survival of mice treated with GDNF chitosan nanoparticle lipid carrier was longer.Conclusion: GDNF chitosan nano lipid carrier can inhibit the expression of NF-κB signal and reduce the proliferation of tumorIn vivo, thus slowing down the occurrence and development of intestinal cancer cells.
Expression of Lymphoma-2 Gene and NF-κB in Human Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Tissue and Its Relation with Disease Prognosis
Authors: Wang Dongtao , Yang Yu , Zhao Tianyong , Wang Fang , Qi Jing , Sui Lu , Xing Lifei
Published: June 2023

Background: Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a common tumor of the head and neck. It is characterized by slow growth, strong invasiveness, easy recurrence and distant organ metastasis. Bcl-2 and NF-κB are indicated to relate to tumor growth, proliferation and apoptosis.
This study aims to analyze the relationship between Bcl-2, NF-κB and ACC. Methods: With ELISA method to detect Bcl-2 and NF-κB expression in the blood of patients with ACC, patients with benign adenoma and healthy controls, and the expression of Bcl-2 and NF-κB
in tissues was detected by immunohistochemistry, and their relationship with ACC was analyzed. relevance. Relationships between clinicopathological features. Results: The levels of Bcl-2 (4.16±1.34 ng/ml) and NF-κB (4.47 ± 1.37 ng/ml) as well as positive rates
of Bcl-2 and NF-κB (87.5% and 85%) were significantly elevated in the ACC group (P <0.05). Bcl-2 was positively correlated with NF-κB (P <0.05). Of note, Bcl-2 and NF-κB expressions were correlated with the incidence frequency, histological
type, clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis of ACC patients (P < 0.05) as the distant metastasis is an independent risk factor. Conclusion: In summary, Bcl-2 and NF-κB expression in ACC patients is associated with the clinicopathological
features of ACC.
Long Non-Coding RNA LINC02532 Mediates p-AKT to Regulate Gastric Cancer Cell Activities Through Targeting miR-362-5p
Authors: Li Kaiyu , Li Chunbo , Zhao Jingquan , Ge Xin , Wang Nan , Sun Yu
Published: June 2023

LINC02532 and miR-362-5p modulates gastric cancer (GC) cell activities. Herein, we elucidated the role of LINC02532 targeting miR-362-5p to mediate p-AKT in GC cells, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for clinical treatment. Human GC cells were treated with si-LINC02532, si-NC,
LINC02532+miR-362-5p inhibitor and p-AKT inhibitor. LINC02532 and miR-362-5p expression was determined by RT-qPCR and p-AKT expression was detected. Transwell assay assessed cell invasion and migration upon treatment and the targeting relationship of LINC02532 and miR-362-5p was evaluated.
A positive expression of LINC02532 and miR-362-5p was detected in each group of GC cells. The expression of LINC02532 was up-regulated (2.95 ± 0.23) and miR-362-5p was down-regulated (0.35 ± 0.08). Silence of LINC02532 significantly suppressed GC cell behaviors and inhibited
migration speed of cancer cells, while p-AKT inhibitor treatment resulted in a decrease in the number of invaded and migrated cells. Combination of LINC02532 and miR-362-5p inhibitor was not effective as previous two treatments, but still decreased cell migration and invasion (p <
0.05). The luciferase experiment indicated LINC02532 targeted miR-362-5p. Down-regulation of LINC02532 also reduced p-AKT protein expression. p-AKT inhibitor group had a lower level of p-AKT protein, followed by LINC02532+miR-362-5p inhibitor group, and si-NC group. In conclusion, silence
of LINC02532 reduces miR-362-5p and p-AKT protein expression in GC cells to suppress GC cell growth through inhibition of p-AKT signaling pathway.
CDK1 in Pathogenesis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Bioinformatics Analysis and Verification
Authors: Mao Yifan , Jiang Feiyun , Xu Rui , Yang Fanglei , Li Yuan , Li Li
Published: June 2023

Introduction: To explore the pathogenesis of gestational diabetic nephropathy (GDM) and its possible biological function by using large data bioinformatics mining algorithm. Materials and methods: The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) was retrieved and the data of GDM differential
expression chip were screened and downloaded. The differentially expressed genes were screened by using R software Lima package (Log2FC > 1; P < 0.05). Functional enrichment of differentially expressed genes was performed. Protein–protein interaction network of GDM pathogenesis
was constructed by the database (STRING) to analyze the interaction between differentially expressed gene-coding proteins. Using Cytohubb software to further screen the key genes (hub genes) in the signaling pathway. In next step, 35 case of GDM and 39 normal pregnant women were selected as
subjects. The expression levels of key gene coding proteins in venous blood and placenta tissues of GDM and normal pregnant women detected by immunohistochemical and qRT-PCR. And using cell experiment to analysis the key gene’s effects in GDM. Results: By Bioinformatics Analysis,
CDK1 was significantly depressed in GDM (P <0.001), In clinical data, CDK1 protein and mRNA expressions were also significantly down-regulation in GDM compared with NC (P <0.001). In vitro study, with high glucose treatment, the cell were hyperproliferation with
CDK1 depressing and AKT overexpression (P <0.001). However, with CDK1 supplement, the cell returned to normal with CDK1 overexpression and AKT depressing (P <0.001). Conclusion: CDK1 is differentially expressed in patients with GDM and play a key part in occurrence
and development of GDM. CDK1 may be a key target for treatment and prevention of GDM.
Completion Pancreatectomy. Indications and Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vouros Dimitrios , Bramis Konstantinos , Alexakis Nikolaos , Kotsarinis Vasileios , Antonakis Pantelis , Memos Nikolaos , Konstadoulakis Manousos , Toutouzas Konstantinos
Published: June 2023

Background/Objective (s)

Completion pancreatectomy (C.P.) is one acceptable treatment of choice in clinical scenarios such as management of post-pancreatectomy complications and recurrence in the pancreatic remnant. Studies referring to completion pancreatectomy as a distinct operation are limited, without emphasizing at the operation itself, rather reporting completion pancreatectomy as a possible option for treatment of various diseases. The identification of indications of CP in various pathologies and the clinical outcomes are therefore mandatory.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in the Pubmed and Scopus Databases (February 2020),guided by the PRISMA protocol, for all studies reporting CP as a surgical procedure with reference at indications for performing it combined with postoperative morbidity and/or mortality.

Results

Out of 1647 studies, 32 studies from 10 countries with 2775 patients in total, of whom 561 (20.2%) CPs met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Inclusion year ranged from 1964 to 2018 and were published from 1992 until 2019. 17 studies with a total number of 249 CPs were performed for post-pancreatectomy complications. Mortality rate was 44.5% (111 out of 249). Morbidity rate was (72.6%). 12 studies with 225 CPs were performed for isolated local recurrence after initial resection with a morbidity rate of 21.5% and 0% mortality rate in the early postoperative period. Two studies with a total number of 12 patients reported CP as a treatment option for recurrent neuroendocrine neoplasms. The mortality in those studies was 8% (1/12) and the mean morbidity rate was 58.3% (7/12). Finally, CP for refractory chronic pancreatitis was presented in one study with morbidity and mortality rates of 19% and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Completion pancreatectomy is a distinct treatment option for various pathologies. Morbidity and mortality rates depend on the indications of performing CP, the status performance of the patients and whether the operation is performed electively or urgently.
Cholecystoenteric Stent-Related Complications: Rendering the Inoperable Patient Operable
Authors: Chang Jenny H. , Naples Robert , Simon Robert
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Cholecystoenteric stenting is an alternative treatment for cholecystitis. However, complications with this approach can render a need for surgical intervention.

Methods

A case series of three patients undergoing surgery for a cholecystoenteric stent-related complication.

Results

Patient 1 was a 42-year-old male with history of lung transplant who had a cholecystoenteric stent placed for acalculous cholecystitis. One year later the stent became occluded with return of symptoms. Endoscopic replacement failed. A laparoscopic cholecystectomy with modified Graham patch was performed. Patient 2 is a 73-year-old female with acalculous cholecystitis in the setting of metastatic colon cancer on FOLFOX. Antibiotic treatment failed. A cholecystoenteric stent was attempted, but the stent dislodged during deployment. The fistula tract was clipped, and a percutaneous cholecystostomy drain was placed, which noted a leak at the gallbladder infundibulum. The patient deteriorated clinically and was taken emergently for an open cholecystectomy. Patient 3 was a 71-year-old male with history of ischemic cardiomyopathy who had a cholecystogastric stent placed for necrotizing gallstone pancreatitis. The stent migrated into the gastrointestinal tract and he developed post-prandial pain. A cholecystectomy and modified Graham patch repair of the gastrotomy was performed. This failed as the gastrotomy was too close to the pylorus. He underwent re-operation with Heineke–Mikulicz pyloroplasty. All patients recovered without any cardiopulmonary complications.

Conclusion

With the increasing utility of cholecystoenteric stents, surgeons should be aware of the complications and have a plan for managing the duodenotomy or gastrotomy. Shared-medical decision-making involving surgeons should be applied when placing these stents.
Best Practices for Neglected Assumptions: Multi-Site Confirmation of the MPACT-6
Authors: Mei Xiaohan , Hamilton Zachary , Kigerl Alex , Krushas Amber , Taxman Faye S.
Published: June 2023

In the assessment world, risk determines “who” to treat and needs determine “what” (Bonta & Andrews, 2016). Yet, for youth, greater emphasis is placed on needs that target recidivism reduction interventions. Unlike risk, needs represent dynamic domains, or latent constructs, requiring testing to assure adequate measurement. We conducted a multi-level, multi-group analysis of the Modified Positive Achievement Change Tool (MPACT) with a 10-state sample of youth ( N = 258,464). Findings confirm the validity and reliability of needs domains, and the development of a novel “Global Needs Factor,” a composite summary of needs. Created without criminal history/static measures, needs scales demonstrate predictive accuracy. Further, measurement invariance and aspects of gender and race/ethnicity prediction parity are observed.
An online game-based intervention using quizzes to improve nutrition and physical activity outcomes among university students
Authors: Belogianni Katerina , Ooms Ann , Lykou Anastasia , Nikoletou Dimitra , Jayne Moir Hannah
Published: June 2023

Background:

Adopting healthy weight-related behaviours in emerging adulthood has long-term health benefits. Digital interventions using game-elements have the potential to improve diet and physical activity outcomes. Universities are influential settings in shifting emerging adults’ behaviour and can deliver health-promoting interventions to young adults.

Objectives:

To investigate the effect of an online intervention using quiz-games on nutrition knowledge, diet quality, physical activity and sitting time in a sample of university students.

Design:

Randomised, single-blind, controlled trial.

Setting:

Two UK Universities including a total of 88 students from different faculties.

Method:

The intervention group ( n = 50) had access to 10 quiz-games and a website for 10 weeks. The control group ( n = 38) received no such resources. Main outcomes were nutrition knowledge, diet quality, physical activity and sitting time assessed by self-administered questionnaires. Frequency and performance of the quiz-games played, and the effect of time (days) on performance after playing a quiz-game for the second time, were also investigated.

Results:

No significant differences were found between groups over time in any of the outcomes. The outcomes remained non-significant when engagement rates with the quiz-games were considered. Among the 35 game-players ( n = 15 did not play any game), 15 played at least one quiz-game. Frequency of playing a quiz-game by all students ranged from 43 to 17 times, and mean scores (% of correct answers) ranged from 55% to 82%. When repeating a quiz-game within 8 days, the performance (score) was improved while after that point, performance remained the same or decreased.

Conclusion:

Online game-based interventions can be easily implemented in university settings. However, further research is needed on their design to enhance engagement and identify key factors affecting students’ behaviour to increase their effectiveness.
Perceived discrimination and mental health in the Japanese general population
Authors: Stickley Andrew , Shirama Aya , Sumiyoshi Tomiki
Published: June 2023

Background:

Research has shown that discrimination is prevalent in many countries and associated with poorer mental health. However, little is known about discrimination and its effects in Japan.

Aims:

To address this deficit this study examined the association between perceived discrimination and mental health outcomes in the Japanese general population and the role of general stress in these associations.

Method:

Data were analyzed from 1,245 individuals (age 18–89) that were collected in an online survey in 2021. Perceived discrimination was assessed with a single-item measure as was lifetime suicidal ideation. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were respectively measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. General stress was assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14). Logistic regression was used to assess associations.

Results:

Perceived discrimination was prevalent (31.6%) in the study sample. In fully adjusted analyses discrimination was associated with all of the mental health outcomes/general stress with odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 2.78 (suicidal ideation) to 6.09 (general stress) among individuals with a high level of discrimination. When the analyses were adjusted for general stress (as a continuous score) there was a large reduction in the ORs although high discrimination continued to be significantly associated with anxiety (OR: 2.21), while a mid level of discrimination was related to depressive symptoms (OR: 1.87) and had a borderline association with suicidal ideation.

Conclusion:

Perceived discrimination is common in the Japanese general population and associated with worse mental health, with stress possibly playing a role in this association.
The stigma of mental health problems: A cross-sectional study in a representative sample of Spain
Authors: González Sanguino Clara , Santos-Olmo Ana Belén , Zamorano Sara , Sánchez-Iglesias Iván , Muñoz López Manuel
Published: June 2023

Background:

Mental health stigma is a relevant phenomenon with implications for the people who suffer from it. Despite its importance, no studies have been carried out in Spain at national level with a representative sample of the population.

Aims:

The aim of this research is to analyze the stigma associated with MHPs in a representative sample of the Spanish population for the first time.

Method:

A cross-sectional quantitative descriptive study was carried out with a representative sample of the population ( N = 2746). Descriptive analyses and regressions are carried out on the different dimensions of stigma such as attitude, attribution and intention of social distance.

Results:

Medium levels of stigma are obtained in stigmatizing attitudes and attributions, and medium-low levels in the intention of social distance. The best predictors of stigma in its different dimensions are attitudes, attributions and intention of social distance themselves. Progressive political ideology is related to less stigma in all dimensions. Knowing someone with mental health problems and talking openly about it together with higher education are also relevant protectors. Mixed results are obtained regarding age, gender and help-seeking.

Conclusion:

National programs and campaigns focused on attitudes, attributions and behavioral intentions are necessary to reduce the stigma still present in Spanish society.
COVID-19 and the changing roles of social workers in minority communities: Lessons from the Israeli ultra-Orthodox community
Authors: Tarshish Noam , Nouman Hani , Altshuler Alex
Published: June 2023

Minority groups have been disproportionately vulnerable to COVID-19’s effects. Whereas, social workers have been instrumental in countering those effects, their roles have been understudied, particularly during the ‘new normal’ that followed the outbreak. This gap is addressed by drawing on interviews with 28 social workers in the Jewish ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) society in Israel, held after the outbreak and during the ‘new normal’. Three main roles are identified: first responders, during the outbreak; a voice for community needs, in the ‘new normal’; and policy translators – throughout. The findings contribute a temporal aspect to the literature by highlighting social workers’ dynamic roles.
Challenging Stereotypes? Norwegian Music Teachers’ Repertoires on Gender Roles and Gender-Expansiveness
Authors: Skjelstad Eirik , Ellefsen Live W.
Published: June 2023

The 2020 Norwegian national curriculum for primary, lower secondary, and upper secondary education includes a “competence aim” after Year 7 that expects pupils to be able to “investigate how gender, gender roles, and sexuality are presented in music and dance in the public sphere and create expressions that challenge stereotypes.” This article reviews four focus group interviews in which music teachers discussed the relevance and application of the new competence aim and their own experiences with gender roles and gender-expansive expressions among their pupils in their music practices. Using analytical tools from the field of discourse psychology, we trace and identify the discursive resources or “repertoires” that music teachers draw on when approaching questions of gender roles, gender identities, and sexuality. While the repertoires in question imply that the teachers hold progressive views about gender identities and expressions, the notion of “ideological dilemmas” enables us to ask whether the progressive attitudes may in fact also work to confirm perceptions of normative, binary gender conformity, hence also delimiting the diversity and freedom of gender expression that the repertoires seem to celebrate. We suggest that a queer pedagogical thinking can offer music teachers tools to address topics related to gender roles, sexuality, and queerness in their music educational practices.
Elliptical Responses to Direct and Indirect Requests for Information
Authors: Chia Katherine , Kaschak Michael P.
Published: June 2023

We present two studies examining the factors that lead speakers to produce elliptical responses to requests for information. Following Clark and Levelt and Kelter, experimenters called businesses and asked about their closing time (e.g., Can you tell me what time you close?). Participants provided the requested information in full sentence responses ( We close at 9) or elliptical responses ( At 9). A reanalysis of data from previous experiments using this paradigm shows that participants are more likely to produce an elliptical response when the question is a direct request for information ( What time do you close?) than when the question is an indirect request for information ( Can you tell me what time you close?). Participants were less likely to produce an elliptical response when they began their answer by providing a yes/no response (e.g., Sure . . . we close at 9). A new experiment replicated these findings, and further showed that elliptical responses were less likely when (1) irrelevant linguistic content was inserted between the question and the participant’s response, and (2) participants verbalized signs of difficulty retrieving the requested information. This latter effect is most prominent in response to questions that are seen as very polite ( May I ask you what time you close?). We discuss the role that the recoverability of the intended meaning of the ellipsis, the accessibility of potential antecedents for the ellipsis, pragmatic factors, and memory retrieval play in shaping the production of ellipsis.
From Strength-Based Parenting to Subjective Well-Being of College Students: A Chain Mediating Role of Personal Growth Initiative and Strengths Use
Authors: Ju Changting , Xue Jinfeng , Zhang Wei , Jiang Xu , Li Ziyi
Published: June 2023

Previous research demonstrated a positive relationship between strength-based parenting (SBP) and subjective well-being (SWB). However, the underlying mechanisms still need further research. Based on the social cognitive theory and developmental assets framework, we investigated the influence of SBP on college students’ SWB through the mediating role of personal growth initiative (PGI) and strengths use. A total of 621 Chinese college students were recruited. Participants completed self-report scales about the SBP, PGI, strengths use and SWB. The results showed that SBP had a positive impact on college students’ SWB. On the one hand, PGI and strengths use mediated the above relationship respectively. On the other hand, SBP influenced SWB through the chain mediating effect of PGI and strengths use. The findings indicate that exploring the relationship between SBP and SWB has positive implications for family education and youth development.
Implicit Theories of Emotional Intelligence and Students’ Emotional and Academic Outcomes
Authors: Costa Ana , Faria Luísa
Published: June 2023

In this study, we addressed the relevance of implicit theories of emotional intelligence (ITEI) to students’ emotional and academic outcomes throughout secondary school. During a three-wave longitudinal survey (10th–12th grades), 222 students, ages 14–18 years old at the first round of data collection ( Mage = 15.4, SD = 0.63) and mostly female (58.6%), completed questionnaires on ITEI, emotional intelligence (EI; ability and trait), and emotions towards school. The results provided evidence for the relation of ITEI with EI (ability and trait) in the following year and their extended link with students’ emotions towards school and academic achievement (Portuguese academic grade) at the end of secondary school. In addition, ability and trait EI mediated the link of entity ITEI and negative emotions and achievement. The findings suggest the importance of fostering more dynamic ITEI among students as a mean for enhancing emotional and academic outcomes.
Examining the Influence of the Neighborhood Environment on Stress Among Black American Adolescents: A Scoping Review
Authors: Villodas Melissa L. , Forte Alexandria B. , Blank Wilson Amy
Published: June 2023

The prevalence of mental health challenges continues to worsen among adolescents, with Black American adolescents experiencing rates of suicide attempts that are increasing faster than any other racial and ethnic groups. Research has found that the neighborhood environment impacts mental health through the type and level of stress that people experience generally. More is yet to be known, however, about the biological and psychological impacts of the neighborhood environment on stress among Black American adolescents. This study used a scoping review to explore the neighborhood environment’s contribution to stress among Black American adolescent’s, specifically. Seven bibliographic databases were used to identify relevant studies. Ten articles met eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Findings reveal that the biological stress response to neighborhood poverty and community violence has implications for mental and behavioral health functioning in adolescence. Implications for future research and interventions are discussed.
Hedged Performatives in Spoken American English: A Discourse-oriented Analysis
Authors: Depraetere Ilse , Kaltenböck Gunther
Published: June 2023

This paper provides a corpus-based analysis of so-called “hedged performatives,” which, although frequently referred to in the literature, have never been the subject of an in-depth functional study. Using data from the Corpus of Contemporary American English, the focus is on I must/ have to say, I must/ have to admit, and I must/ have to confess, as the hedged performatives which are among the most frequent and score highest in terms of collocational strength. The qualitative analysis identifies two main functions, viz., downtoner and emphasizer. They are shown to derive from the interplay of three co(n)textual parameters: (i) “semantic valency” of the host clause (i.e., positive, negative, or neutral semantic content), (ii) “thematic orientation” of the host clause (i.e., toward the speaker, the addressee, or a third person/the situation), and (iii) conversational “alignment” of the speaker with the interlocutor (i.e., agreement or disagreement). It is further shown that hedged performatives play an important role in rapport management, serving (mainly positive face) politeness strategies, which are captured in terms of face-preservation, face-damage, and face-boost.