bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breaking barriers: Assessing pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness and willingness to use in the Lebanese community
Authors: Azzi Akel , Chartouni Carine , Ibrahim Racha , Chebel Zeina Bou , Haddad Elie , Chehata Nabil , Choucair Jacques , Saliba Gebrael
Published: March 2024

Background

In the evolving HIV landscape, the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA) grapples with data gaps, hindering the 95–95–95 targets. Lebanon, despite progress, falls short. Our study addresses Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) gaps for effective HIV prevention.

Methods

Surveying 410 participants via snowball sampling and an online questionnaire, we analyzed data with chi-square and regression over 5 months for insights into PrEP awareness and readiness.

Results

Summarizing the pivotal statistical outcomes of the study, 22.2% reported awareness of PrEP, showcasing diverse knowledge levels about its purpose and usage. Out of them, 57.1% expressed a willingness to use it; while a mere 5.5% have utilized it. The study reveals diverse demographic profiles, with age influencing PrEP awareness and willingness to use. Positive correlations exist between PrEP discussions within social circles, increased information availability, and elevated willingness. Financial considerations and accessibility at pharmacies emerge as critical determinants, guiding the development of targeted interventions.

Conclusions

This analysis emphasizes tailored education, community initiatives, and policy enhancements to address PrEP challenges in Lebanon. Guiding public health initiatives, our study considers age, social dynamics, education, and accessibility in HIV prevention.
Misplaced Divides? Discussing Political Disagreement With Strangers Can Be Unexpectedly Positive
Authors: Wald Kristina A. , Kardas Michael , Epley Nicholas
Published: March 2024

Differences of opinion between people are common in everyday life, but discussing those differences openly in conversation may be unnecessarily rare. We report three experiments ( N = 1,264 U.S.-based adults) demonstrating that people’s interest in discussing important but potentially divisive topics is guided by their expectations about how positively the conversation will unfold, leaving them more interested in having a conversation with someone who agrees versus disagrees with them. People’s expectations about their conversations, however, were systematically miscalibrated such that people underestimated how positive these conversations would be—especially in cases of disagreement. Miscalibrated expectations stemmed from underestimating the degree of common ground that would emerge in conversation and from failing to appreciate the power of social forces in conversation that create social connection. Misunderstanding the outcomes of conversation could lead people to avoid discussing disagreements more often, creating a misplaced barrier to learning, social connection, free inquiry, and free expression.
Comparison of non-linear vibration of outer race defective ball bearing using two defect functions
Authors: Jain Prashant H , Bhosle Santosh P , Keche Ashok J , Desavale Ramchandra G
Published: March 2024

The aim of this article is to study the effects of evolution in defect size on vibration of a ball bearing by simulation of a ball bearing by developing a 2-DOF mathematical model and to compare the vibration responses of defective bearings obtained for two widely used defect functions, viz., rectangular function and half-sine wave function. MATLAB codes are developed to prepare a mathematical model of a ball bearing and to solve the differential equations of the model using the Runge-Kutta method. In the model, the mass supported by the bearing is considered as a lumped mass, and the contact between the races and the balls is considered as a series of springs, whose spring stiffness is obtained by using Hertz’s contact deformation theory. This model considers the contact deformation between the balls and the races and the additional displacement between the balls and the inner race due to radial clearance and defect geometry. The maximum possible radial displacement of the ball into the defect is obtained analytically and graphically from the race-ball-defect geometry. First, the impulses generated due to an outer race defect in the ball bearing are modeled using two different defect functions separately and their vibration responses are compared. Secondly, the effects of increase in defect length on vibration of the bearing are simulated separately for two defect functions, and then their responses are compared and analyzed. The results show that when the defect is modeled with a rectangular defect function, the vibration responses obtained are greater than when the defect is modeled with a half-sine wave defect function. And, vibration responses increase rapidly up to a certain level of defect length and then decrease with a further increase in defect length. The vibration analysis performed for different defect lengths can provide good support to vibration analysts and researchers.
Enhanced biodiesel production fromAnnona squamosaseed oil using Ni-doped CaO nanocatalyst: Process optimization and reaction kinetics
Authors: Baskar Gurunathan , Nithica Sampath , Pravin Ravichandran , Renuka Viswanathan , Tamilarasan Krishnamurthi
Published: March 2024

The present research was mainly focused on the production of biodiesel from Annona squamosa oil using a synthesized Ni-doped CaO nanocatalyst. The optimization of the transesterification reaction parameters was studied through response surface methodology. The highest biodiesel yield of 99.1% was achieved with the optimized conditions of 7.86% catalyst concentration, 442 RPM, 15.19:1 molar ratio of methanol to oil, reaction temperature of 55.8°C and reaction time of 63.3 min. The results obtained from reaction kinetics study showed a good fit with a first-order kinetic model. The activation energy and R2value were determined to be 53.7 kJ/mol and 0.90, respectively. The synthesized Ni-doped CaO nanocatalyst was characterized using Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy which confirms the presence of nickel, calcium and oxygen. Also, the average size of the nanocatalyst was found to be 48.79 nm. The Fourier Transform–Infrared Spectroscopy results showed the occurrence of functional groups such as C-H and C = O bonds in the synthesized Ni-doped CaO nanocatalyst. The presence of fatty acid methyl esters in the produced biodiesel was analyzed through Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry analysis. The obtained results from the current study provides the possibility and insights for sustainable biodiesel production and a greener environment.
Tracing the trajectory of literacy warrants: A trends study on the emergence of digital literacy and digital competency
Authors: Esh Manash , Ghosh Saptarshi
Published: March 2024

This research analyses the field of digital literacy and digital competency, focusing on the growing research conducted in this domain. The dataset reveals that information technology, education and digital literacy have consistently gained attention recently. This study involves accessing the Scopus Elsevier database and retrieving data from 984 documents. We used Bibliometrix software for comprehensive bibliometric analysis and Python packages for plot generation. Moreover, this research aims to analyse trends, patterns and insights in digital literacy and competency based on bibliometric data, covering journal clustering, author productivity, Keyword Plus term frequencies, citation trends and keyword shifting. It also highlights emerging areas such as digital transformation, digital skills and the impact of COVID-19, indicating their increasing significance in the research community. The findings underscore the growing interest in the intersection of education and technology, particularly concerning digital literacy and e-learning. This dataset is valuable for identifying trends, tracking research progress and identifying digital literacy and competency.
Factors associated with non-adherence to medications in systemic lupus erythematosus: Results from a Swedish survey
Authors: Emamikia Sharzad , Gomez Alvaro , Ådahl Theodor , von Perner Gunilla , Enman Yvonne , Chatzidionysiou Katerina , Arkema Elizabeth V. , Parodis Ioannis
Published: March 2024

Objective

To identify determinants of medication non-adherence in a Swedish population of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Patients with SLE from Karolinska and Örebro University Hospitals participated in a survey-based cross-sectional study. Demographics, disease activity, organ damage, HRQoL (LupusQol, EQ-5D-5 L), medication non-adherence (<80% on CQR-19 or MASRI) and beliefs about medicines (BMQ) were registered. MASRI was used to report adherence to different drugs/drug classes, categorised into (i) antimalarial agents (AMA), (ii) glucocorticoids and (iii) other SLE medications. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, disease activity and organ damage.

Results

Among 205 respondents, the median age was 52.0 years (IQR: 34.0–70.0), 86.3% were women, 66.8% were non-adherent to their medications according to CQR-19, and 6.6% and 6.3% were non-adherent to AMA and glucocorticoids, respectively, according to MASRI. Positive beliefs about glucocorticoids (OR; 95% CI: 0.77; 0.59–0.99; p = .039) and medications overall (0.71; 0.52–0.97; p = .029) were protective against non-adherence to glucocorticoids. Anxiety/depression (3.09; 1.12–8.54; p = .029), medication concerns (1.12; 1.05–1.20; p < .001) and belief that medications are overused (1.30; 1.15–1.46; p < .001) or harmful (1.36; 1.19–1.56; p < .001) were associated with medication non-adherence (CQR-19); beliefs in the necessity of medications (0.73; 0.65–0.82; p < .001) and positive beliefs in medications were protective (0.72; 0.60–0.86; p < .001). No associations were found between other investigated factors and medication non-adherence.

Conclusions

Beliefs about medications were a major determinant of medication non-adherence. Patient education may help alleviate the negative impact of misinformation/unawareness on adherence.
Chinese scientists’ mediated participation in public outreach: Multiple direct and personal norm-mediated predictors
Authors: Zhang Xing , Chen Anfan , Jin Jianbin
Published: March 2024

The rise of new media technologies has reshaped the landscape of science communication. There is little research on scientists’ outreach participation and its possible predictors in different media contexts. Based on a national survey of 8,533 scientists in China, this study examined multiple direct and personal norm-mediated predictors of scientists’ intentions to participate in public outreach via legacy media versus social media. Our findings revealed two consistent direct predictors (past outreach participation and personal norms) and two inconsistent direct predictors (descriptive norms and intrinsic rewards) that are significant only for participating via social media in the Chinese context. Moreover, our findings suggest a significant mediation effect of personal norms on the influence of various social norms (descriptive and subjective) and rewards (intrinsic and extrinsic) on Chinese scientists’ intentions to participate in public outreach via media. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Therapeutic Potential of Rosa canina L. Seed Oil and Metformin: Modulation of Bax/Bcl-2/p53/Caspase-3 Pathways and Improvement of Biochemical and Oxidative Stress Parameters in Estradiol-induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Rat Model
Authors: Chen Hanping , Liang Xinxin
Published: March 2024

Background

This study investigated the therapeutic effects of Rosa canina L. seed oil (RCSO) on PCOS using an animal model, focusing on evaluating biochemical factors and the Bax/Bcl-2/p53 and Caspase-3 (Cas-3) pathways.

Materials and Methods

The PCOS model was created by injecting estradiol valerate into 60 adult Wistar rats, which were assigned to six groups of 10 animals: normal, PCOS, metformin, RCSO, and co-treatment with MET and RCSO groups. After 50 days, the serum levels of testosterone, progesterone, LH, and FSH hormones were measured, along with the activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and nitric oxide. Additionally, ovarian tissues were taken for gene expression analysis of Bax/Bcl-2/p53 and Cas-3 using real-time PCR, as well as protein expression analysis with western blot. Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess the levels of p53 and Ki-67 proteins, indicating the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells.

Results

RCSO, in synergy with MET, demonstrated reductions in the LH/FSH ratio along with a decrease in progesterone and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, RCSO, along with MET, upregulated the Bax/Bcl-2/p53 and Cas-3 pathways, resulting in increased p53 expression and decreased Ki-67-positive cells, indicative of enhanced apoptosis.

Conclusions

These findings suggest the potential use of RCSO in women with ovulation disorders, particularly those with PCOS.
Can Artificial Intelligence Robots Write Effective Instructions?
Authors: Johnson-Eilola Johndan , Selber Stuart A. , York Eric J.
Published: March 2024

The authors analyze the ability of ChatGPT to generate effective instructions for a consequential task: taking a COVID-19 test. They compare the output from a commercial prompt for generating these instructions to those provided by the test manufacturer. They also analyze the input, the prompt itself, to address prompt-engineering issues. The results show that although the output from ChatGPT exhibits certain conventions for documentation, the human-authored instructions from the manufacturer are superior in most ways. The authors conclude that when it comes to creating high-quality, consequential instructions, ChatGPT might be better seen as a collaborator than a competitor with human technical communicators.
Virtual Reality Simulation of Airway Management Post-Cleft Palate Surgery: A Model for Sustainable and Equitable Education
Authors: Verzella Alexandra N. , Diaz Allison L. , Laspro Matteo , Alcon Andre , Schechter Jill , Oliker Aaron , Arnold Anne , Flores Roberto L.
Published: March 2024

Background

The effectiveness of virtual-reality (VR) simulation-based training in cleft surgery has not been tested. The purpose of this study was to evaluate learners’ acceptance of VR simulation in airway management of a pediatric patient post-cleft palate repair.

Methods

This VR simulation was developed through collaboration between BioDigital and Smile Train. 26 medical students from a single institution completed 10 min of standardized VR training and 5 min of standardized discussion about airway management post-cleft palate repair. They spent 4-8 min in the VR simulation with guidance from a cleft surgery expert. Participants completed pre- and post-surveys evaluating confidence in using VR as an educational tool, understanding of airway management, and opinions on VR in surgical education. Satisfaction was evaluated using a modified Student Evaluation of Educational Quality questionnaire and scored on a 5-point Likert scale. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were performed to evaluate responses.

Results

There was a significant increase in respondents’ confidence using VR as an educational tool and understanding of airway management post-cleft palate repair after the simulation ( P < .001). Respondents’ opinions on incorporating VR in surgical education started high and did not change significantly post-simulation. Participants were satisfied with VR-based simulation and reported it was stimulating (4.31 ± 0.88), increased interest (3.77 ± 1.21), enhanced learning (4.12 ± 1.05), was clear (4.15 ± 0.97), was effective in teaching (4.08 ± 0.81), and would recommend the simulation (4.2 ± 1.04).

Conclusion

VR-based simulation can significantly increase learners’ confidence and skills in airway management post-cleft palate repair. Learners find VR to be effective and recommend its incorporation in surgical education.
Managing Replenishment and Clearance of Perishables: Last-In, First-Out (LIFO) Issuing Policy and Age-Sensitive Demand
Authors: Goyal Achal , Sapra Amar
Published: March 2024

In supermarkets, customers choose the unit(s) they purchase, which leads to inventory being sold in a last-in, first-out (LIFO) order for perishable products. Furthermore, for such products, the demand for inventory may depend on its age since customers may choose to walk away if the freshest available inventory is too old for them. Despite the widespread occurrence of LIFO-based inventory systems, few studies have analyzed them. In this study, we contribute by developing insights on joint replenishment and clearance policy for a perishable product with a general, finite lifetime using a periodic review model such that the inventory is sold in a LIFO order and demand is age-dependent. The model seeks to optimize two decisions every period: how much of fresh inventory to order and how much of existing inventory to clear. A key objective of the model is to understand the effect of age-dependence of demand on the optimal replenishment and clearance policy. We find that the optimal clearance policy for all but the oldest inventory is a multiindex policy such that between any pair of adjacent indexes, either no inventory is cleared or all the inventory is cleared till the lower index. For the oldest inventory, we show that the optimal policy may have multiple forms depending on how sensitive demand is to inventory’s age. This is a notable result in inventory theory since parameters usually affect only the policy value(s) and not the policy structure. Since the optimal policy has a complex structure in general, which makes it difficult to compute, we develop an efficient heuristic to compute the replenishment and clearance quantities. The heuristic underperforms the optimal policy by [Formula: see text]0.92% on average.
Reconciling Rigor Versus Relevance: Lessons from Humanitarian Fleet Management
Authors: Schaumann Sarah K , Thakur-Weigold Bublu , Van Wassenhove Luk N
Published: March 2024

This position paper reframes the ongoing relevance versus rigor debate in operations research (OR) as a Kuhnian epistemological crisis, in which the dominant paradigm of quantitative modeling shows signs of exhaustion. Humanitarian fleet management is presented as an empirical case of extensive operations theory, which has not been implemented by the stakeholders who paid for its production. We propose a possible way out of the crisis by combining “hard” and “soft” OR, illustrating the potential with a selected problem structuring method. Optimization solutions can become more productive by first surfacing the organizational context of decision-making. The illustration emphasizes that hard and soft OR are not binary opposites but interlocking, mutually empowering components which expand the evidence base. Shifting the current paradigm toward more engaged scholarship could counteract the ongoing theoretical drift, for more strategic impact on the pressing problems of today.
Live Biotherapeutic Products for the Prevention of Recurrent Clostridioides difficile Infection
Authors: Pettit Natasha N. , Shaeer Kristy M. , Chahine Elias B.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To review the efficacy, safety, and role of live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) in the prevention of recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (rCDI).

Data Sources:

A literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar (through February 2024) with search terms RBX2660, SER-109, and fecal microbiota. Other resources included abstracts presented at recent conferences, national clinical practice guidelines, and manufacturers’ websites.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

All relevant studies, trial updates, conference abstracts, and guidelines in the English language were included.

Data Synthesis:

Two LBPs were recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the prevention of recurrence in adults following antibiotic treatment for rCDI. Fecal microbiota, live-jslm is administered rectally as a retention enema, whereas fecal microbiota spores, live-brpk is given orally after bowel preparation. Several phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials have established the safety and efficacy of these LBPs in reducing rates of rCDI compared with placebo. Patients with severe immunosuppression and those with inflammatory bowel disease were largely excluded from these trials.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice in Comparison with Existing Drugs:

Live biotherapeutic products offer a similar mechanism to conventional fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in preventing rCDI through microbiota restoration. The primary advantages of LBPs over FMT are their standardized composition and donor stool screening processes for transmissible pathogens. Bezlotoxumab is also available for the prevention of Clostridioides difficile infection; however, there are no clinical data available to compare the efficacy of LBPs with bezlotoxumab, and the benefit of simultaneous use of these preventative therapies is unclear.

Conclusions:

Live biotherapeutic products provide a safe and effective option for the prevention of rCDI and represent an improvement over conventional FMT. Additional studies are needed to further determine their place in therapy relative to bezlotoxumab and in the setting of immunosuppression and inflammatory bowel disease.
Clinical and Radiographic Healing of Nonoperative and Operative Treatment of Jones Fractures
Authors: Kingery Matthew T. , Kadiyala Manasa L. , Walls Raymond , Konda Sanjit R. , Ganta Abhishek , Leucht Philipp , Rivero Steven , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Significant heterogeneity in the classification and treatment of zone 3 proximal fifth metatarsal base fractures (“true Jones fractures”) exists. This study compared time to clinical and radiographic healing between patients treated operatively and nonoperatively. We hypothesized that patients treated nonoperatively may demonstrate a greater time to clinical healing.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients presenting to a large, urban, academic medical center with “Jones” fractures between December 2012 and April 2022. Jones fractures were defined as fifth metatarsal base fractures occurring in the proximal metadiaphyseal region, distal to the articulation of the fourth and fifth metatarsals on the oblique radiographic view. Clinical healing was the time point at which the patient had returned to their baseline ambulatory status with no tenderness to palpation. Radiographic healing was the presence of bridging callus across at least 3 cortices.

Results:

A total of 2450 patients presented with fifth metatarsal fractures, and 166 fractures (6.8%) were true Jones fractures. Among patients with Jones fractures, 120 patients with 121 Jones fractures followed up at our institution and were included in the analysis (mean age 46.5 ± 18.5 years). Ninety-nine fractures (81.8%) were treated nonoperatively and 22 fractures (18.2%) operatively. There were no differences between nonoperative and operative groups in time to clinical healing (12.7 ± 7.1 vs 12.8 ± 4.8 weeks, P = .931) or radiographic healing (13.2 ± 8.1 vs 11.7 ± 5.9 weeks, P = .331). Overall healing rate was 96% for the nonoperative group compared with 96.2% for the operative group.

Conclusion:

In this study, nonoperative and operative treatment of true Jones fractures were associated with equivalent clinical and radiographic healing. The rate of delayed union in true Jones fractures was lower than previously described, and there was no difference in delayed union rate between nonoperative and operative management.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Ecologists Prioritize Listening to Community Perspectives When They See the Benefit: Norms and Self-Efficacy Beliefs Appear to Have Little Impact
Authors: Besley John C. , Downs Martha R.
Published: March 2024

This study uses survey data to explore ecologists’ willingness to prioritize the behavioral goal of considering local community members’ perspectives in the context of research at Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) sites. It finds that believing in the benefits of such listening is a relatively strong statistical predictor of expressing a willingness to prioritize listening. Neither normative beliefs nor agency beliefs were strong correlates of prioritizing listening. Women and younger scientists were more willing to prioritize listening as a goal. The study builds on the “strategic science communication as planned behavior” approach to try to better understand scientists’ communication choices.
Effects of COVID on Mandated Child Abuse Reporting Among Nurses: The Mediating Role of Compassion Fatigue
Authors: Stevenson Margaret C. , Ravipati Vaishnavi M. , Schaefer Cynthia T.
Published: March 2024

Because COVID triggered elevated rates of child abuse, but diminished rates of child abuse reporting, we explored predictors of nurses’ attitudes toward reporting suspected child abuse during the COVID pandemic. In particular, we expected that compassion fatigue and compassion satisfaction would mediate the effects of COVID-related stressors (i.e., exposure to COVID patient death and suffering; COVID-related family income loss; frequent direct care of COVID patients; and parental burnout) on nurses’ negative attitudes toward reporting suspected child abuse. Employing chain-referral sampling, we recruited a sample of 244 registered nurses (83% White; 87% women). Supporting hypotheses, compassion fatigue mediated the effects of job-related COVID stressors (exposure to COVID patient death and suffering; COVID-related family income loss; and frequent direct care of COVID patients) on nurses’ negative attitudes toward reporting suspected child abuse. In addition, among nurses who were also parents, nurses’ self-reported parental burnout mediated the relation between compassion fatigue and negative attitudes toward reporting suspected child abuse. In addition, compassion satisfaction mediated the effect of nurses’ parental burnout on nurses’ negative attitudes toward reporting suspected child abuse.
Pembrolizumab induced type 1 diabetes mellitus in a patient with metastatic melanoma and literature review on steroids as a treatment option
Authors: Greene Adina , Penner Scott , Kunesh Jacqueline , Altaf Amal , McGrade William , Niu Jiaxin
Published: March 2024

Objective

We report a case of a 77-year-old male with metastatic melanoma who developed immune-checkpoint-inhibitor (ICI) induced type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) after seven months of pembrolizumab treatment and required life-long insulin use. This prompted a literature review of best practice guidelines for long-term management of checkpoint-inhibitor induced T1DM including oral steroids as a treatment option similar to other ICI adverse effects.

Data Sources and Summary

A literature search on PubMed was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of steroid treatment ICI-induced T1DM in any cancer type. Search terms consisted of “ipilimumab” OR “nivolumab” OR & “pembrolizumab” OR “immune checkpoint” AND “diabetes” OR “type 1 diabetes” AND “cancer” OR “melanoma” OR “carcinoma OR “sarcoma”. Inclusion criteria were case reports published after 2015 in which the patient was diagnosed with ICI-induced T1DM or diabetic ketoacidosis where oral steroids were part of the treatment. Exclusion criteria included oral steroids not used as a treatment modality for T1DM, multiple endocrine comorbidities, no response recorded, and previous history of T1DM. 284 abstracts were found with these search terms of which 33 full-text articles were concluded to be eligible and screened and from which 8 records were included. From these 8 articles, there were 12 cases included.

Conclusion

This literature search suggests that ICI-induced T1DM cannot be reversed by steroids and that insulin must be used permanently for treatment management.
Complexity and the Tax Code: A Textual Analysis
Authors: Swenson Charles , Qu Hao , Song Xiao
Published: March 2024

Using a model from political economy, we predict that U.S. Internal Revenue Code sections and related Treasury Regulations will have more verbiage, complex terms, and cognitive complexity for tax-reducing sections to limit free riding and the scope of tax benefits. Using textual analysis, we find our model's predictions are generally supported using both Code and Regulations from 1997 to 2017. Importantly, the complexity of tax-reducing sections has a disproportionate impact on the Code and Regulations as a whole, which in turn may result in outsized compliance time and costs. Policy implications include that complexity (and related deadweight costs) may be an unavoidable feature of tax law, that tax benefits may be underutilized, and that suboptimal taxpayer behavior may result.
Novel compound heterozygous variants in LTBP2 associated with relative anterior microphthalmos
Authors: Lin Peimin , Xu Jie , Miao Ao , Lu Yi , Jiang Yongxiang , Zheng Tianyu
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Relative anterior microphthalmos (RAM) is a rare congenital defect associated with severe vision impairment that is primarily caused by genetic alterations. The purpose of this study was to identify the causative genetic variants in two Chinese families with RAM with an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern.

Methods

DNA samples were obtained from two probands and their family members. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to screen 425 genes associated with inherited eye diseases to identify possible disease-causing variants in the two patients. Sanger sequencing was subsequently used to validate the results in both families.

Results

The targeted NGS panel identified potentially causative novel variants of the latent transforming growth factor beta binding protein 2 ( LTBP2) gene in the two RAM families: a missense variant (c.2771C > T; p.Ala924Val) and an intronic variant (c.4582 + 9A > G) in Family A and a different missense variant (c.5239C > A; p.Arg1747Ser) and a synonymous variant (c.951G > A; p.Pro317Pro) in Family B. These four novel variants all cosegregated with the disease phenotype.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to report novel LTBP2 gene variants related to RAM. Considering the importance of LTBP2 in ocular development, we provide initial insights into the potential pathogenic mechanisms of LTBP2 in RAM.
Evaluating the outcome of a bundle with 11 components and the INICC multidimensional approach in decreasing rates of central line-associated bloodstream infections across nine Asian countries
Authors: Rosenthal Victor Daniel , Yin Ruijie , Myatra Sheila Nainan , Divatia Jigeeshu Vasishth , Biswas Sanjay K , Shrivastava Anjana Mahesh , Perez Valentina , Wang Qi Yuee , Todi Subhash Kumar , Tang Swee Fong , Tai Chian Wern , Lee Pei-Chuen , Sengupta Deep , Sarma Smita , Sandhu Kavita , Rodrigues Camilla , Nag Bikas , Mohd-Basri Mat Nor , Mehta Yatin , Kharbanda Mohit , Kansal Sudha , Jain Aakanksha Chawla , Davaadagva Narangarav , Chuah Soo Lin , Low Michelle Siu Yee , Gan Chin Seng , Bt Madzlan Kushairi Marissa , Bhattacharyya Mahuya , Bhakta Arpita , Begzjav Tsolmon , Bat-Erdene Batsuren , Bali Roseleen Kaur , Badyal Binesh , Arora Ankush , Arjun Rajalakshmi , Tao Lili , Jin Zhilin , Chawla Rajesh
Published: March 2024

Background:

Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates in intensive care units (ICUs) across Latin America exceed those in high-income countries significantly.

Methods:

We implemented the INICC multidimensional approach, incorporating an 11-component bundle, in 122 ICUs spanning nine Asian countries. We computed the CLABSI rate using the CDC/NSHN definition and criteria. The CLABSI rate per 1000 CL-days was calculated at baseline and throughout different phases of the intervention, including the 2nd month, 3rd month, 4–16 month, and 17–29 month periods. A two-sample t-test was employed to compare baseline CLABSI rates with intervention rates. Additionally, we utilized a generalized linear mixed model with a Poisson distribution to analyze the association between exposure and outcome.

Results:

A total of 124,946 patients were hospitalized over 717,270 patient-days, with 238,595 central line (CL)-days recorded. The rates of CLABSI per 1000 CL-days significantly decreased from 16.64 during the baseline period to 6.51 in the 2nd month (RR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.36–0.42; p < 0.001), 3.71 in the 3rd month (RR = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.21–0.25; p < 0.001), 2.80 in the 4–16 month (RR = 0.17; 95% CI = 0.15–0.19; p < 0.001), and 2.18 in the 17–29 month (RR = 0.13; 95% CI = 0.11–0.15; p < 0.001) intervals. A multilevel Poisson regression model demonstrated a sustained, continuous, and statistically significant decrease in ratios of incidence rates, reaching 0.35 ( p < 0.0001) during the 17–29 month period. Moreover, the all-cause in-ICU mortality rate significantly decreased from 13.23% to 10.96% ( p = 0.0001) during the 17–29 month period.

Conclusions:

Our intervention led to an 87% reduction in CLABSI rates, with a 29-month follow-up.
Helicobacter pylori and Gastrointestinal Cancers: Recent Advances and Controversies
Authors: Zhang Chuandong , Chen Yuqi , Long Yan , Zheng Huimin , Jing Jiyong , Pan Wensheng
Published: March 2024

Helicobacter pylori ( H pylori), a gastric bacterium, has been extensively studied for its association with gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. However, recent evidence suggests its potential implications beyond the stomach, linking it to other gastrointestinal malignancies, such as esophageal cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer, gallbladder cancer, and colorectal cancer. In light of the expanding research landscape and the increasing interest in exploring H pylori broader role in gastrointestinal tumorigenesis, this comprehensive review aims to elucidate the relationship between H pylori and gastrointestinal tumors. This review encompasses recent epidemiological studies, research progress, and emerging perspectives, providing a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between H pylori and gastrointestinal tumors. The findings highlight the captivating world of H pylori and its intricate involvement in gastrointestinal malignancies.
Determinants and Magnitude of Neonatal Sepsis at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital, in Eastern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alemayehu Astawus , Yusuf Mohammed , Demissie Abebaw , Muleta Mekuria Edae
Published: March 2024

Background:

Neonatal sepsis is a serious blood bacterial infection in neonates at the age of equal to or less than 28 days of life, and it’s still the major significant cause of death and long-term morbidity in developing countries.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and related factors with neonatal sepsis among newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized University Hospital, Harar, Ethiopia.

Methods:

An institutional-based retrospective cross-sectional study design was conducted among 386 neonates admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit from September 2017 to August 2019. A systematic random sampling method was used. Data were analyzed using SPSS V.26. Descriptive summary statistics were done. Bivariate regression and multivariate analysis were computed. Variables with P-value <.05 were declared as having a statistically significant association.

Result:

The prevalence of neonatal sepsis was 53.1%. Among the total neonates who had sepsis, 67.8% had early neonatal sepsis. Among neonatal factors, preterm neonates (AOR: 8.1, 95%CI: 2.1, 31.2), birth asphyxia (AOR: 4.7, 95%CI: 1.6, 13.6); and among maternal factors, urban residence (AOR: 0.26, 95%CI: 0.1, 0.5), antenatal care attendance (AOR: 0.32, 95%CI: 0.2, 0.6), spontaneous vaginal delivery (AOR: 0.047, 95%CI: 0.01, 0.2), and maternal antibiotic use (AOR: 0.39; 95%CI: 0.2, 0.8) were found to have significant association with neonatal sepsis.

Conclusion:

Overall, the magnitude of neonatal sepsis was high. Provision of neonatal and obstetrics care as per standard during prenatal, intranatal, and postnatal periods is needed. Training of health professionals on infection prevention and safe delivery practice should be provided.
Cooptation, hijacking, or normalization? The discursive concession of body politics on Douyin
Authors: Leo-Liu Jindong , Fung Anthony , Fu Han
Published: March 2024

The short-video platform TikTok/Douyin becomes a space not only for individuals to express and articulate their interests, but also for the authorities to negotiate with the public on various ideological boundaries. This article specifically examines a Douyin campaign in which the platform attempts to prescribe a standard of body exposure that falls within the tolerance level of the authorities and, meanwhile, favours users’ interests to gain support. To conceptualize such discursive negotiations and the relevant tactics, we propose the term ‘discursive concession’ to describe the process of compromise by temporarily challenging, obscuring, and rearticulating the discursive boundary, eventually legitimizing the subordinated discourse by aligning it with the dominant ideological logic. By analysing discourses of representative short videos and comments, we identified three tactics of discursive concession: cooptation, hijacking, and normalization. They respectively describe how dominant, subordinated, and middle powers leverage each other to push the discursive boundary forward.
Understanding war: The sociological perspective revisited
Authors: Kuznar Andriana Bencic
Published: March 2024

Although war encompasses various dimensions – social, political, cultural, historical, anthropological and ecological – with significant economic implications, recent studies increasingly emphasize the importance of sociological perspectives in unravelling its complexities. I posit that war is profoundly shaped by social dynamics that have led to the development of contemporary warfare, culminating in the tumultuous twentieth century marked by increased coercion, organizational structures, disciplinary measures, tactical utilization of technology, ideological dissemination across broad masses of the population and micro-social bonds of solidarity intertwined with individual battlefield experiences. Furthermore, I argue that understanding these dynamics enhances the conceptual sociological comprehension of war, which is equally vital alongside historical, political, economic, cultural, anthropological and psychological dimensions that influence war. My analysis seeks to elucidate the social transformations driving the contemporary surge in war and warfare, drawing upon established sociological theories by scholars such as Bauman, Centeno and Malešević, who consistently validate these societal shifts.
Interface debonding defect detection for CFST columns based on EMI measurements: Experiment, numerical simulation and blind inspection in practice
Authors: Liu Qian , Xu Bin , Xia Zongjun , Chen Zhifei , Yao Yudi , Wang Jiang
Published: March 2024

Concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) members have been widely used in skyscrapers and long-span bridges. Non-uniformly distributed hydration heat during curing, inadequate compaction during construction and unavoidable shrinkage and creep of mass concrete in service most likely lead to interface debonding defects between concrete core and steel tube, which has been a common concern. The development of effective non-destructive inspection methods for interface bonding condition of existing CFST members is critical. In this study, an interface debonding defect detection method based on electromechanical impedance (EMI) measurement using surface-mounted piezoelectric-lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) sensors is proposed at first. Then, experimental study on the feasibility of the proposed approach is carried out with scaled CFST specimens with artificially mimicked interface debonding defects. EMI of surface-mounted PZT sensors at different frequency bands are measured and compared to verify the detectability of the proposed approach for the mimicked interface debonding defects. Thirdly, a multi-physics CFST-PZT coupling finite element model (FEM) with interface debonding defects is established, and EMI of surface-mounted PZT sensors at different locations is simulated. The influence of interface debonding defects on EMI measurements is illustrated. Finally, a blind inspection on the interface bonding condition of selected CFST columns in an existing skyscraper in service using the proposed approach is carried out. Both bonding and debonding defect in the tested CFST columns are detected correctly and validated with drilling hole observation. Experimental, numerical and engineering application results show the proposed approach is effective for interface debonding detection of CFST members and sensitive to minor debonding defect of 0.3 mm in CFST members.
Unpacking the network dynamics of online political discussions: Stochastic actor-oriented modeling with political/sociopsychological/linguistic factors
Authors: Choi Sujin
Published: March 2024

The underlying mechanisms of online political discussions which may involve power dynamics have seldom been explored through a dynamic network approach, even though discussions themselves are inherently relational and dynamic processes. It remains unclear how discussions are shaped over time between egos/alters with different political/sociopsychological/linguistic attributes as well as by the existing discussion ties surrounding them. Based on a stochastic actor-oriented modeling constructed from pre-survey/virtual discussion/post-survey data, we found some evidence that, in the politically heterogeneous context, shared political ideology, alter’s political tolerance level, and the extent of negative/strong/assertive language used by alter are associated with the likelihood of discussion tie creation/maintenance. In the homogeneous context, the extent to which ego perceives alter as politically knowledgeable and personally likable was clearly associated with ego’s tendency to create or maintain discussion ties with alter over time. This study uncovers alter/dyad-centered variables that are critical, but have been overlooked, for communication research.
Backchannel forms and functions in context and culture: The use of backchannels in Arab media discourse
Authors: Tartory Raeda , Al-khawaldeh Sami , Azieb Samia , Al Saideen Bassam
Published: March 2024

Forms and functions of verbal backchannels, that is, short tokens such as uh-huh, yeah, and mhm uttered by a listener to the main speaker – have been widely investigated in conversation analysis. Few studies have examined the use of backchannels in Arabic culture, particularly in the context of media discourse. This study stresses the importance of contextualizing the forms and functions of backchannels. Five Arabic television discussions were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively to determine the used forms and functions of backchannels. The findings demonstrated that backchannels were used mainly by presenters, and rarely by guests, as they control interactions. The results further revealed that, similar to other cultures and contexts, non-lexical backchannels were most frequently used because of their minimal interference in the discourse of the main speakers. A major finding of this study is the presenters’ use of tayeb in Arabic, which is equivalent to alright in English, to regain the floor from the guest speaker and change the topic to address another guest. Backchannels are essential for maintaining cooperation in a variety of interactions and in various cultures. Backchannel universality, ease of use, and significance make them an important topic for further investigation in all cultures, particularly Arabic ones.
Effect of Ag interlayer on the microstructural properties and nanocreep behavior of Ti6Al4V/AA7075 dissimilar laser weldments
Authors: Iltaf Asim , Barka Noureddine , Dehghan Shayan
Published: March 2024

Creep failure poses a potential risk in dissimilar welded joints between aluminum and titanium alloys, potentially compromising the joint's integrity. This study utilizes laser beam welding (LBW) to achieve dissimilar joining of AA7075 and Ti6Al4V by incorporating an Ag interlayer. The role of Ag interlayer for dissimilar joining of AA7075 and Ti6Al4V alloys and its impact on the microstructure and nanocreep behavior of joints is examined. The findings showed that the use of Ag decreased the interaction of Ti/Al considerably with each other which led to a reduction in the formation of brittle intermetallic compounds. The nanohardness and atomic force microscopy (AFM) results indicated that the Ti6Al4V HAZ exhibited the highest hardness and least plastic deformation, owing to the formation of α′ martensite. The nanoindentation creep analysis revealed the highest stress exponent value in Ti6Al4V HAZ, pointing to a dislocation climb creep mechanism. Additionally, the results also suggested that the observed creep mechanism might be attributed to both diffusional creep and dislocation climb for other zones.
Crumbling in the face of cost? How cost considerations affect public support for European security and defence cooperation
Authors: Mader Matthias , Neubert Moritz , Münchow Felix , Hofmann Stephanie C , Schoen Harald , Gavras Konstantin
Published: March 2024

In surveys, Europeans routinely express high levels of support for a common security and defence policy of the European Union. Do these responses reflect real demands or superficial support that would crumble if the issue was politicised? This article provides new answers to this question. We conducted pre-registered survey experiments with more than 40,000 respondents from 25 European countries in which we randomly varied whether respondents received information about potential costs of two hypothetical cooperative activities: military operations and defence procurement. Support for these activities was systematically lower when costs were mentioned. We conclude that, in the event of politicisation, there is considerable potential for shifts in opinion and that caution is required in deriving a mandate for specific activities from high approval rates for cooperation in general.
Self-report instruments measuring aspects of self for people living with dementia: A systematic literature review of psychosocial interventions
Authors: Baggaley Jessica , Wolverson Emma , Clarke Chris
Published: March 2024

Objective

A positive sense of self may be a key domain of psychological well-being for people living with dementia and therefore a legitimate target for psychosocial interventions in dementia care. Determining the effectiveness of such interventions often requires valid self-report instruments. This review aimed to investigate what aspects of self have been measured using self-report instruments in evaluating psychosocial interventions for people living with dementia and to explore the effectiveness of these interventions in terms of positive outcomes related to aspects of self.

Method

A systematic search of the literature using five electronic databases and one register (CENTRAL) was conducted. A narrative synthesis and methodological quality assessment was completed for the included studies.

Results

A total of 24 studies were included in the review. Seven aspects of self were measured using a range of self-report instruments, many of which have not been validated for dementia. Aspects of self were; self-esteem, self-efficacy, self-compassion, self-growth, self-acceptance, self-management, and self-identity. Studies included a variety of interventions; however, the effectiveness of these interventions for these aspects of self was mixed.

Conclusion

There is some evidence that psychosocial interventions improve specific aspects of self in dementia but further research to improve this evidence base is needed. Future research should also investigate and confirm the validity and reliability of existing self-report instruments that aim to measure aspects of self in dementia. Limitations and implications of the review are discussed.