bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Total Worker Health® (TWH) approach: a systematic review of its application in different occupational settings
Authors: Leso Veruscka , Carugno Michele , Carrer Paolo , Fusco Fabio , Mendola Marco , Coppola Mariagaia , Zaffina Salvatore , Di Prinzio Reparata Rosa , Iavicoli Ivo
Published: July 2024

Background

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), in 2011, developed the “Total Worker Health®” (TWH) as a holistic approach to protect and promote the workers’ safety, health, and well-being. After over ten years from the TWH development, the aim of the present systematic review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the worldwide TWH initiatives.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus and ISI Web of Science were searched for TWH studies published up to the 31st of July 2023, and 43 investigations could be included. The review was registered on the International prospective register of systematic reviews PROSPERO with the reference number CRD42023416972.

Results

Issues that emerged as relevant for the TWH operationalization were the awareness about the TWH approach and fundamentals, the leadership commitment, and a participatory engagement of the workforce: these aspects all contributed to acceptable and effective setting oriented TWH plans, specifically tailored on the peculiarities of the workplace, including small enterprises and multiemployer worksites. Evaluation and continual improvement were reported as fundamental for the successful implementation of TWH initiatives. Limited resources for safety and health initiatives, in terms of time, people, and funds, together with difficulties in the identification of safety and health priorities and a poor participatory culture were recognized as obstacles to the TWH application. Training resulted the core component of the TWH leadership and workforce preparedness, with beneficial results in terms of safety culture and adoption of preventive measures.

Conclusions

Although interesting aspects emerged from our review, future longitudinal investigations should confirm the effectiveness, easy integration, and long-term sustainability of TWH models in different workplaces, in order to effectively support safe and health-enhancing works able to improve innovation and productivity.
Global burden of stroke in adolescents and young adults (aged 15–39 years) from 1990 to 2019: a comprehensive trend analysis based on the global burden of disease study 2019
Authors: Ma Zixuan , He Wenkai , Zhou Yuanxin , Mai Li , Xu Lifeng , Li Can , Li Mingyan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The incidence of stroke is rising among individuals aged 15–39. Insufficient research targeting this age group hampers the development of effective strategies. This study analyzes data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) to examine trends from 1990 to 2019 and propose future interventions.

Methods

Data on ischemic strokes, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage from 1990 to 2019 was collected from the Global Health Data Exchange (GHDx) platform. We used the Annual Average Percentage Change (AAPC) to assess global trends in incidence, prevalence, Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), and mortality rates across various stroke categories. Joinpoint models identified significant years of trend inflection. Trend analyses were segmented by age, gender, and Sociodemographic Index (SDI).

Findings

From 1990 to 2019, the global incidence of ischemic stroke within the adolescents and young adults (AYAs) cohort declined from 1990 to 1999, further decreased from 2000 to 2009, and then increased from 2010 to 2019. The overall AAPC p-value showed no significant difference. Mortality rates for ischemic strokes were consistently reduced during this period. The overall incidence rate of intracerebral hemorrhage has exhibited a downward trend. Meanwhile, the incidence rate of subarachnoid hemorrhage decreased from 1990 to 2009, yet saw a resurgence from 2010 to 2019. Male ischemic stroke incidence grew more than female incidence, but both absolute incidence and rates were higher for females. Differences in SDI levels were observed, with the fastest increase in incidence occurring in low-middle SDI regions, followed by high SDI regions, and the smallest increase in low SDI regions. Conversely, the most rapid decline was noted in high-middle SDI regions, with no significant change observed in middle SDI regions.

Conclusion

A concerning trend of increasing ischemic stroke incidence, DALYs, and prevalence rates has emerged in the global 15–39 age group, especially among those aged 30–39. This increase is evident across regions with varying SDI classifications. To combat this alarming trend among adolescents and young adults, enhancing preventive efforts, promoting healthier lifestyles, strengthening the healthcare system’s responsiveness, and maintaining vigilant epidemiological monitoring is essential.
Biomechanical study between percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with cement pedicle plasty improves vertebral biomechanical stability: A finite element analysis
Authors: Li Hongtao , Xiao Changming , Pan Hongyu , Lei Yang , Wang Haozhong , Li Sen
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the biomechanical effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with cement pedicle plasty (PVCPP) on the unstable osteoporotic vertebral fractures (OVFs) through finite element (FE) analysis. The study compares the biomechanical stability of finite element models between percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with cement pedicle plasty.

Methods

Two patients with unstable OVFs underwent computed tomography (CT) examination at the thoracolumbar vertebral body levels, respectively. The CT images were reconstructed into three-dimensional finite element models to simulate stress conditions across six dimensions and to evaluate the vertebral von Mises stress before and after bone cement reinforcement.

Results

The study found that stress distribution differed between groups mainly at the pedicle base. In the surgical vertebral bodies, the maximum stress in the PVP group decreased during flexion and left bending, while it increased in other states. In the PVCPP group, all maximum stresses decreased. In the inferior vertebral bodies, the maximum stress in the PVP group generally increased, while it decreased in the PVCPP group. In the superior vertebral bodies, postoperatively, the maximum stress in the PVP group generally increased, while it almost remained unchanged in the PVCPP group. PVP group had higher cement stress and displacement.

Conclusion

PVCPP is an effective treatment method for patients with unstable OVFs. It can quickly relieve pain and enhance the stability of the three columns, thereby reducing the risk of some complications.
Composite eosinophilic solid and cystic renal cell carcinoma and clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a rare case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Xian , Li Lin , Wang Lisha , Yu Mengxing , Zhang Dongdong
Published: July 2024

Background

Eosinophilic solid and cystic renal cell carcinoma (ESC-RCC) is a novel subtype of renal cell carcinoma characterized by its relatively low incidence and indolent behavior. We report a rare case of ESC-RCC concurrent with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) in a single kidney.

Case presentation

A 48-year-old male, was found to have a mixed echogenic mass in the left kidney during a physical examination. He has no history of hematuria and flank pain. An abdominal CT scan revealed a 3.0 * 1.9 * 2.5 cm3 mass with unclearly bordered at the lower pole of the left kidney. Abdominal MRI showed two nodules of different sizes in the left kidney, suggesting the possibility of a tumor. The patient underwent a subtotal nephrectomy, and the postoperative pathological results indicated ESC-RCC combined with ccRCC. The patient recovered well without tumor recurrence during the 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion

We reported a case of renal composite tumors, comprising the rare ESC-RCC and the more common ccRCC. Imaging combined with postoperative pathological examination is crucial for the definitive diagnosis of these rare tumors.
Knowledge and Awareness of the orthodontic triage and its uses among dental healthcare professionals – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ikram Fizzah , Sukhia Rashna Hoshang , Fida Mubassar
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In orthodontics, the triage system is used to assess the preadolescents to rule out interventions needed earlier and to assess the nature of orthodontic problems as complex or moderate. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and awareness of orthodontic triage and its uses among dental healthcare professionals (DHCP).

Materials and methods

A triage awareness questionnaire (TAQ) was formulated and validated as reliable by a panel of five orthodontic specialists which was then circulated online among 400 DHCP. The questionnaire consisted of nine sections that assessed the current knowledge and usage of orthodontic triage among the dental community. Frequencies and percentages were reported for all categorical variables. Chi-square was used to assess the association among the variables.

Results

The response rate was 28.2% with the majority of participants being general dentists. Regarding the knowledge and use of triage, 40% of DHCP were only familiar with the word “orthodontic triage” while being unaware of how it works and 79% denied using orthodontic triage. Regarding the management of anomalies, 42% of DHCP preferred extraction as the management of supernumerary teeth (p = 0.013). Practitioners belonging to private setups performed visual inspection in growing patients for assessment of their facial features (p = 0.012). Clinicians with more than one year of experience referred young patients to orthodontic specialists for the management of crossbite (p = 0.024). Younger clinicians (25–35 years) with more than one year of experience referred adult patients to orthodontists for correction of their unesthetic smile (p = 0.013).

Conclusions

This paper provides foundational data for the development of future policies and protocols supporting structured, evidence-based approaches to patient management via use of orthodontic triage. This study underscores the importance of targeted educational interventions to enhance understanding and implementation of orthodontic triage principles in clinical practice. Further probing is necessary to discern the disparity between understanding the orthodontic triage and effective employment of its components among practicing dental healthcare professionals.
Exploring the dynamics of situational interest in team-based learning in undergraduate medical education
Authors: Rotgans Jerome I. , Sterpu Irene , Herling Lotta , Nordquist Jonas , Acharya Ganesh
Published: July 2024

Background

Team-based learning (TBL) is a widely recognized instructional approach in medical education blending direct instruction with active-cooperative learning in small groups. While TBL is known to enhance knowledge acquisition, its impact on student motivation, particularly through situational interest, remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the development of situational interest across the distinct phases of TBL, focusing on how each phase (individual readiness assurance test; iRAT, team readiness assurance test; tRAT, and application exercise; AE) influences students’ situational interest. The study sought to provide insights into the motivational dynamics underpinning TBL in a medical education setting.

Methods

A total of 88 medical students participated in a TBL session on “Bleeding during Pregnancy.” Situational interest was measured after each TBL phase. A one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to assess the fluctuation of situational interest throughout the session.

Results

The analysis revealed significant variations in situational interest across different TBL stages. There was a significant increase in situational interest following the tRAT (p = .001). Post-tRAT, situational interest significantly decreased after the AE (p = .007), returning to levels observed at the session’s start. Post hoc correlation analysis suggested a negative association between tRAT performance and situational interest, indicating heightened interest in response to awareness of knowledge gaps during the tRAT.

Conclusions

The findings of this study may challenge the traditional view of TBL, suggesting a more integrated and dynamic interplay between knowledge acquisition and application phases. The results highlight the importance of the AE phase in clinical education and suggest that situational interest is one key driver in the learning process within TBL. Future research should focus on replicating these findings and comparing situational interest development between pre-clinical and clinical student cohorts to further understand the effects of situational interest on TBL in medical education.
Cognitive empathy variations during internship: a study from Iran
Authors: Ahmadipour Habibeh , Soltanzadeh Niloofar
Published: July 2024

Objective

Despite the critical role of empathy in medical students, various studies have provided conflicting evidence regarding changes in empathy during medical study. The present study was designed to investigate changes in cognitive empathy during the internship.

Method

A study was conducted at the Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences. All medical students at the beginning of their internship were entered the study as a cohort and asked to complete a two-part questionnaire including demographic characteristics and the Persian version of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Student Version (JSE-S). The questionnaire was completed again at the end of the internship. Data were analyzed using SPSS software using paired t- test and one-way repeated measures.

Results

A total of 108 interns participated with a mean age of 23.85 ± 1.47 years, and a female majority (61.1%). The mean score of standing in the patient’s shoe increased significantly (P < 0.001) during the internship, whereas the mean score of compassionate care decreased (P < 0.001). The overall score of empathy decreased during the internship, but the difference was not statistically significant. (P = 0.105). No statistically significant difference was found in the mean score of empathy and its subscales based on demographic characteristics in the two phases of the study.

Conclusion

our results revealed that the level of cognitive empathy in the current study was higher than that in previous studies. The changes were consistent with some studies and contradictory to others. Considering that similar changes were observed in the subgroup analysis, it is necessary to focus more on the factors that cause this feeling to fade during the internship through appropriate assessment and timely intervention.
Predicting hospital length of stay using machine learning on a large open health dataset
Authors: Jain Raunak , Singh Mrityunjai , Rao A. Ravishankar , Garg Rahul
Published: July 2024

Background

Governments worldwide are facing growing pressure to increase transparency, as citizens demand greater insight into decision-making processes and public spending. An example is the release of open healthcare data to researchers, as healthcare is one of the top economic sectors. Significant information systems development and computational experimentation are required to extract meaning and value from these datasets. We use a large open health dataset provided by the New York State Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) containing 2.3 million de-identified patient records. One of the fields in these records is a patient’s length of stay (LoS) in a hospital, which is crucial in estimating healthcare costs and planning hospital capacity for future needs. Hence it would be very beneficial for hospitals to be able to predict the LoS early. The area of machine learning offers a potential solution, which is the focus of the current paper.

Methods

We investigated multiple machine learning techniques including feature engineering, regression, and classification trees to predict the length of stay (LoS) of all the hospital procedures currently available in the dataset. Whereas many researchers focus on LoS prediction for a specific disease, a unique feature of our model is its ability to simultaneously handle 285 diagnosis codes from the Clinical Classification System (CCS). We focused on the interpretability and explainability of input features and the resulting models. We developed separate models for newborns and non-newborns.

Results

The study yields promising results, demonstrating the effectiveness of machine learning in predicting LoS. The best R2 scores achieved are noteworthy: 0.82 for newborns using linear regression and 0.43 for non-newborns using catboost regression. Focusing on cardiovascular disease refines the predictive capability, achieving an improved R2 score of 0.62. The models not only demonstrate high performance but also provide understandable insights. For instance, birth-weight is employed for predicting LoS in newborns, while diagnostic-related group classification proves valuable for non-newborns.

Conclusion

Our study showcases the practical utility of machine learning models in predicting LoS during patient admittance. The emphasis on interpretability ensures that the models can be easily comprehended and replicated by other researchers. Healthcare stakeholders, including providers, administrators, and patients, stand to benefit significantly. The findings offer valuable insights for cost estimation and capacity planning, contributing to the overall enhancement of healthcare management and delivery.
Disproportionately higher cardiovascular disease risk and incidence with high fructose corn syrup sweetened beverage intake among black young adults–the CARDIA study
Authors: DeChristopher Luanne Robalo , Tucker Katherine L.
Published: July 2024

Background

The black/white heart disease mortality disparity began increasing in the early 1980’s, coincident with the switch from sucrose to high-fructose-corn-syrup/(HFCS) in the US food supply. There has been more fructose in HFCS than generally-recognized-as-safe/GRAS, which has contributed to unprecedented excess-free-fructose/(unpaired-fructose) in foods/beverages. Average- per-capita excess-free-fructose, from HFCS, began exceeding dosages/(5-10 g) that trigger fructose-malabsorption in the early 1980’s. Fructose malabsorption contributes to gut-dysbiosis and gut-in-situ-fructosylation of dietary peptides/incretins/(GLP-1/GIP) which forms atherosclerotic advanced-glycation-end-products. Both dysregulate gut endocrine function and are risk factors for cardiovascular disease/(CVD). Limited research shows that African Americans have higher fructose malabsorption prevalence than others. CVD risk begins early in life.

Methods

Coronary-Artery-Risk-Development-in-Adults/(CARDIA) study data beginning in 1985–86 with 2186 Black and 2277 White participants, aged 18–30 y, were used to test the hypothesis that HFCS sweetened beverage intake increases CVD risk/incidence, more among Black than White young adults, and at lower intakes; while orange juice-a low excess-free-fructose juice with comparable total sugars and total fructose, but a 1:1 fructose-to-glucose-ratio, i.e., low excess-free-fructose, does not. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios.

Results

HFCS sweetened beverage intake was associated with higher CVD risk (HR = 1.7) than smoking (HR = 1.6). CVD risk was higher at lower HFCS sweetened beverage intake among Black than White participants. Intake, as low as 3 times/wk, was associated with twice the CVD risk vs. less frequent/never, among Black participants only (HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.7; P = 0.013). Probability of an ordered relationship approached significance. Among Black participants, CVD incidence jumped 62% from 59.8/1000, among ≤ 2-times/wk, to 96.9/1000 among 3–6 times/wk consumers. Among White participants, CVD incidence increased from 37.6/1000, among ≤ 1.5-times/wk, to 41.1/1000, among 2 times/wk–once/d – a 9% increase. Hypertension was highest among Black daily HFCS sweetened beverage consumers.

Conclusion

The ubiquitous presence of HFCS over-the-past-40 years, at higher fructose-to-glucose ratios than generally-recognized-as-safe, may have contributed to CVD racial disparities, due to higher fructose-malabsorption prevalence among Black individuals, unpaired/excess-free-fructose induced gut dysbiosis and gut fructosylation of dietary peptides/incretins (GLP-1/GIP). These disturbances contribute to atherosclerotic plaque; promote incretin insufficiency/dysregulation/altered satiety/dysglycemia; decrease protective microbiota metabolites; and increase hypertension, CVD morbidity and mortality.
Association between systemic immune-inflammation index and sarcopenic obesity in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults: a cross-sectional study and mediation analysis
Authors: Wan Xia , Ji Yan , Wang Rong , Yang Huan , Cao Xiaodong , Lu Shourong
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite the known association between chronic inflammation and reduced muscle mass, there is a gap in research regarding the association between the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and sarcopenic obesity (SO). This study aims to assess the relationship between SII and SO in middle-aged and elderly adults and the mediating role of triglyceride-glucose index (TyG).

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 2,719 participants aged 45–90 years who underwent health check-ups. SO was evaluated by combining sarcopenia [assessed by handgrip strength and appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI)] with obesity (determined by body fat percentage). Association between SII and SO, sarcopenia, and obesity in middle-aged and elderly individuals was examined using multivariable logistic regression, restricted cubic spline analysis, and subgroup analysis. Bidirectional mediation analysis was conducted to determine the direct and indirect effects through SII and TyG.

Results

The study included 2,719 participants, of which 228 had SO (8.4%). SO prevalence increased as the SII quartiles rose (Pfor trend <0.001). SII (per SD increase) had a significantly positive association with SO in both middle-aged individuals (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.43 ~ 1.99) and older adults (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.68 ~ 3.77). The relationship between SII and SO was found to be non-linear (Pnonlinear<0.05). In addition, SII showed a strong negative relationship with both handgrip strength and ASMI across all participants. In subgroup analysis, SII was still shown to significantly increase the risk of SO in all subgroups by gender, body mass index, waist circumference, smoking, drinking, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia. TyG was found to mediate 21.36%, 11.78%, and 9.94% of the associations between SII and SO, sarcopenia, and obesity, respectively. SII had no mediation effect on the association between TyG and SO, sarcopenia, and obesity (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Elevated levels of SII were associated with an increased risk of SO in middle-aged and elderly adults, especially in the elderly population, and elevated TyG levels played a role in this relationship.
Interaction between antiretroviral therapy regimens and body mass index on triglyceride levels in people living with HIV: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study
Authors: Xu Yide , Qi Bufeng , Wu Xiaolu , Lu Chen , Chen Pei , Wang Dongdong , Li Xiaoting , Xie Chunfeng , Wu Jieshu , Zhong Caiyun , Li Lin , Gao Gu , Yang Dandan , Ding Ye , Geng Shanshan
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate how antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens and body mass index (BMI) interact to affect triglyceride (TG) levels in people living with HIV (PLWH).

Methods

This research involved 451 men living with HIV for cross-sectional analysis, and 132 underwent follow-up assessments in 2021 and 2023. Multivariate logistic regression identified key factors, while covariance regression models assessed interactions between ART regimens and BMI on TG levels.

Results

The result of this cross-sectional study indicated that advanced AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) stage (OR = 2.756, P = 0.003), higher BMI (OR = 1.131, P = 0.003), and waist-hip ratio (WHR, OR = 44.684, P = 0.019) are closely associated with high triglyceride levels. Additionally, regimens containing zidovudine (AZT) (OR = 3.927, P < 0.001) or protease inhibitors/integrase strand transfer inhibitors (PI/INSTI) (OR = 5.167, P < 0.001) were significantly linked to hypertriglyceridemia. Cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses from 2021 to 2023 emphasized that changes in BMI interact with antiretroviral treatment regimens to affect TG levels in PLWH (Pinteraction < 0.05). Especially in the AZT-based drug regimen, the correlation between BMI and TG is more prominent.

Conclusion

The interaction between ART regimens and BMI influences TG levels in PLWH, indicating that weight management is crucial for reducing the risk of hypertriglyceridemia in this population.
Genetic variation at a splicing branch point in intron 7 of STK11: a rare variant decreasing its expression in a Chinese family with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
Authors: Wang Xiufang , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Jingqiong , Liu Chao , Deng Aiping , Li Juyi
Published: July 2024

Background

Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS), a rare dominantly inherited disease, is primarily characterized by hamartomatous polyps and melanotic macules as well as by an increased risk of cancer. The current study aimed to identify the pathogenic gene and pathogenic mechanism of a proband with PJS, thereby offering precise prevention and treatment strategies for PJS.

Methods

A detailed clinical examination was performed of the proband diagnosed with PJS and her family members. In addition, peripheral venous blood was collected from the family members to extract genomic DNA. The pathogenic genes of the proband were identified using whole-exome sequencing, and the candidate pathogenic variants were verified via Sanger sequencing. Meanwhile, co-segregation tests were performed among six family members. Finally, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to assess transcript variants in the peripheral blood cells of patients and non-related healthy controls.

Results

Genetic testing revealed a rare splicing variant c.921-1G > C in STK11 in the proband and in her sister and nephew, and the variant co-segregated among the affected family members and nonrelated healthy controls. The proband phenotypically presented with a rare gastric-type adenocarcinoma of the cervix. RT-PCR revealed that the STK11 c.921-1G > C variant could produce two transcripts. Of note, 40 base pairs were deleted in the aberrant transcript between exons 3 and 4, resulting in a frameshift variant and premature termination of the amino acid in exon 6 and ultimately leading to the loss of its functional domain in the STK11 protein. Finally, RT-PCR showed that compared with healthy controls, STK11 mRNA expression level was < 50% in patients.

Conclusion

The present study results indicated that the rare splicing variant c.921-1G > C in intron 7 of STK11 may be a pathogenic variant in patients with PJS. However, this variant (in intron 7) may not produce abnormal transcripts (deletion of 40 base pairs between exons 3 and 4), and PJS may be attributed to the decrease in STK11 expression. Therefore, this study emphasized the importance of genetic counseling, pre-symptomatic monitoring, and early complication management in PJS.
Study of barium copper silicate pigments on painted pottery from the Qinhan Xincheng, Western Han Dynasty (207 B.C.–8 A.D.), Xi’an, Shaanxi province, China
Authors: Yu Jinyu , Huang Kejia , Qin Chunlei , Zhou Jun , Yao Zhengquan , Li Naisheng , Zhu Jian
Published: July 2024

Lead-barium silicate system products, represented by barium copper silicate and lead-barium glass, epitomize a unique artistic craftsmanship of ancient China. Specifically, barium copper silicate products were the only known artificially synthesized blue-purple inorganic pigments in ancient China. Painted pottery decorated with barium copper silicate pigment, predominantly found in elite tombs after 2nd century B.C., is exceedingly rare and holds immense archaeological significance. This case employed multi micro-scale analytical techniques, such as ultra-depth-of-field microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, µ X-ray Diffraction, and electron probe microanalysis, for comprehensive microscopic examination of a rare Chinese Purple (CP, BaCuSi2O6) pigments on painted pottery. The analytical results confirm that the purple pigment is BaCuSi2O6, accompanied by cinnabar for the red and bone white for the white sections, suggesting the probable use of organic residues as an adhesive. Additionally, the study reveals microstructural characteristics in CP faience and CP pigments, notably the encapsulation of CP particles by quartz particles. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that the process of manufacturing purple pigment was achieved by grinding faience into fine particles and then using an organic-based adhesive to adhere these particles to the pottery. This implies that the evolutions in CP products circa the 2nd century B.C. were driven not by technological advances from lead-barium glass, but rather by shifts in application methods, reflecting an adaptation process among different cultures. This study provides new perspectives and significant insights for comprehending the interplay between barium copper silicate and lead-barium glass, reconstructing ancient pottery painting techniques, and exploring the era’s technological and cultural interactions.
Analysis of the spatial evolution of coastal defense patterns in the Ming Dynasty based on long-time-series Wokou invasions (Zhejiang)
Authors: Liu Huanjie , Wang Yinggang , Tan Lifeng , Zhang Rui , Zhang Fuhan
Published: July 2024

As a famous coastal defense heritage in the world’s military history, the maritime defense heritage of China’s Ming Dynasty represents the highest achievement of China’s ancient coastal military defense. There is a relative lack of holistic research on this defense system from its establishment to stabilization. Additionally, there is a lack of comparative research on the combination of Wokou invasions and defense patterns from a spatio-temporal perspective. The study aims to offer insights into the temporal and spatial evolution of ancient military defense heritage and investigate the significance of Ming Dynasty coastal defense. This study focuses on Zhejiang, a key coastal defense during the Ming Dynasty. Using GIS tools, it analyzes the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of Wokou invasions and defense mode in the process of Zhejiang coastal defense from its establishment to its perfection by using GIS analytical tools, and explores the driving factors of the dynamic adjustment of this coastal defense system. The results show that: (1) Hongwu 1 to 31 (1368–1398) witnessed the construction of a 12-area defense system, encompassing Wei and Suo citadels. This followed a multi-point defense strategy, with Wei citadels controlling the coastline and Suo citadels supporting them; (2) Hongwu to Wanli (1368–1588) saw the evolution of five defense modes, evolving from decentralized to centralized and then to a coexistence of both. This culminated in the establishment of 4–6 Defense Mode (4 Canjiang and 6 Bazong); (3) the evolution of the defense paradigm is largely driven by Wokou incursions and is an adaptation from small-scale, short-duration infestations to large-scale, long-duration infestations. The findings show that the Ming Dynasty’s coastal defense system in China was flexible and adaptive, evolving to meet changing defense needs.
Crowding in School Choice
Authors: Phan William , Tierney Ryan , Zhou Yu
Published: July 2024

We consider the market design problem of matching students to schools in the presence of crowding effects. These effects are salient in parents’ decision-making and the empirical literature; however, they cause difficulties in the design of satisfactory mechanisms and, as such, are not currently considered. We propose a new framework and an equilibrium notion that accommodates crowding, no-envy, and respect for priorities. The equilibrium has a student-optimal element that induces an incentive-compatible mechanism and is implementable via a novel algorithm. Moreover, analogs of fundamental structural results of the matching literature (the rural hospitals theorem, welfare lattice, etc.) survive. (JEL D47, H75, I21, I28)
Buying from a Group
Authors: Haghpanah Nima , Kuvalekar Aditya , Lipnowski Elliot
Published: July 2024

A buyer procures a good owned by a group of sellers whose heterogeneous cost of trade is private information. The buyer must either buy the whole good or nothing, and sellers share the transfer in proportion to their share of the good. We characterize the optimal mechanism: trade occurs if and only if the buyer’s benefit of trade exceeds a weighted average of sellers’ virtual costs. These weights are endogenous, with sellers who are ex ante less inclined to trade receiving higher weight. This mechanism always outperforms posted-price mechanisms. An extension characterizes the entire Pareto frontier. (JEL D44, D63, D82, Q15, Q24)
A novel mutation in SETX and ATM causes ataxia in consanguineous Pakistani families
Authors: Akram Rabia , Mahmood Baig Shahid , Anwar Haseeb , Hussain Ghulam
Published: July 2024

Background & Objectives: Ataxia is usually caused by cerebellar pathology or a decrease in vestibular or proprioceptive afferent input to the cerebellum. It is characterized by uncoordinated walking, truncal instability, body or head tremors, uncontrolled coordination of the hands, dysarthria, and aberrant eye movements. The objective of the current investigation was to identify the underlying genetic cause of the hereditary ataxia that affects the Pakistani population.
Methods: We studied numerous consanguineous Pakistani families whose members had ataxia-related clinical symptoms to varying degrees. The families were chosen from the Punjab province, and the neurophysician conducted a clinical examination. Peripheral blood samples from both sick and healthy members of the family were taken after obtaining informed consent. Genomic DNA was used to find potential variations in probands using whole exome sequencing. The study was carried out at the University Hospital of Tübingen, Germany, and Government College University in Faisalabad, Pakistan, during 2018-2023.
Results: The molecular analysis of these families identified different variants including SGCB: c.902C>T, c.668G>A, ATM: c.6196_6197insGAA, SPG11: c.5769del, SETX c.5525_5533del, and ATM: c.7969A>T. A noteworthy mutation in ATM and SETX was observed among them, and its symptoms were shown to cause ataxia in these families.
Conclusion: The current study broadens the mutation spectrum of several hereditary ataxia types and suggests the next generation sequencing in conjunction with clinical research for a more accurate diagnosis of overlapping phenotypes of this disorder in the Pakistani population.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9246
How to cite this: Akram R, Baig SM, Anwar H, Hussain G. A novel mutation in SETX and ATM causes ataxia in consanguineous Pakistani families. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(8):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9246
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of the effects of losartan potassium and benazepril in the treatment of hypertensive patients with insulin resistance
Authors: Ma Tingting , Wang Yangui , Liu Haixia , Wang Tao , Zhao Yue , Li Yao
Published: July 2024

Objective: To compare the efficacy of losartan potassium (LP) and benazepril in the treatment of hypertensive patients with insulin resistance (IR).
Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 155 hypertensive patients with IR admitted to Shanghai Pudong New Area People’s Hospital from March 2021 to March 2023. Of these 76 received LP treatment (LP group), and 79 received benazepril treatment (benazepril group). Blood pressure levels, blood glucose and insulin levels, treatment efficacy, and incidence of adverse reactions before and after the treatment in both groups were compared.
Results: After the treatment, diastolic and systolic blood pressure in the two groups significantly decreased compared to pre-treatment levels (P<0.05), with no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). After the treatment, levels of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-hours plasma glucose (2hPG), fasting insulin (FINS), 2-hours insulin (2hINS), and insulin sensitivity index (ISI) in both groups significantly decreased compared to pre-treatment levels (P<0.05), with no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the total efficacy and the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05).
Conclusions: The efficacy of LP and benazepril in treating hypertension with IR is equivalent. Both are safe and can effectively lower blood sugar and insulin levels, alleviate IR, and lower blood pressure.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9896
How to cite this: Ma T, Wang Y, Liu H, Wang T, Zhao Y, Li Y. Comparison of the effects of losartan potassium and benazepril in the treatment of hypertensive patients with insulin resistance. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(8):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.8.9896
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Семейни и социални нагласи към интеграцията на децата с детска церебрална парализа
Authors: Γκοτζιαμάνη Μαρία
Published: July 2024

Η παιδική εγκεφαλική παράλυση είναι ένα από τα πιο σοβαρά συγγενή ή πρώιμα επίκτητα νευρολογικά σύνδρομα με μεγάλη κοινωνική σημασία. Η κατάσταση του παιδιού απαιτεί συνήθως διεπιστημονική φροντίδα - ιατρική, παραϊατρική, κοινωνικο-παιδαγωγική φροντίδα. Η θεωρητική ανάλυση αφορά τα πεδία: ορισμός, μορφές και κλινική εικόνα της παιδικής εγκεφαλικής παράλυσης. σωματικά, ψυχολογικά και παιδαγωγικά χαρακτηριστικά των παιδιών με εγκεφαλική παράλυση, οικογενειακές αντιδράσεις στην εμφάνισης ενός παιδιού με εγκεφαλική παράλυση, τα παιδιά με εγκεφαλική παράλυση στο σύστημα της ολοκληρωμένης εκπαίδευσης. Η σωματική ανάπτυξη και οι νοητικές διεργασίες στα παιδιά με εγκεφαλική παράλυση είναι συγκεκριμένες, ποικίλες και ανάλογα με πολλούς παράγοντες, η κάθε περίπτωση είναι ξεχωριστή. Αυτά τα παιδιά είναι πλέον μέρος του εκπαιδευτικού συστήματος ένταξης. Στη Βουλγαρία η επιβολή του είναι ιδιαίτερα εντατική τα τελευταία χρόνια, αλλά συχνά αντιμετωπίζει προβλήματα, σημαντικό ρόλο στο οποίο παίζουν οι συμπεριφορές όσων συμμετέχουν στην εφαρμογή του εκπαιδευτικού συστήματος ένταξης. Η διατριβή εξέτασε τις στάσεις τεσσάρων βασικών ομάδων συμμετεχόντων: γονείς παιδιών με παράλυση και παιδιά χωρίς αναπηρία, δασκάλους και δασκάλους ειδίκευσης. Ο συνολικός αριθμός των ερωτηθέντων είναι 119 γονείς και εκπαιδευτικοί. Η κυρία υπόθεση τέθηκε σχετικά με την εξάρτηση των στάσεών τους από την ηλικία και το φύλο την κοινωνική θέση για τους γονείς και την επαγγελματική εμπειρία για τους εκπαιδευτικούς. Τα δεδομένα υποβλήθηκαν σε στατιστικές αναλύσεις με SPSS®. Η έρευνα απέδειξε σε σχετικό βαθμό τις αναμενόμενες εξαρτήσεις, αποκαλύπτοντας ότι η συνεκπαίδευση των μαθητών με εγκεφαλική παράλυση τα τελευταία χρόνια μπαίνει σε νέο στάδιο δημιουργούνται κυρίως θετικές τάσεις απέναντί της και ταυτόχρονα δείχνει ότι υπάρχουν ακόμα περισσότερα προβλήματα που πρέπει να επιλυθούν σε αυτόν τον τομέα. Η ένταξη συνοδεύεται από δυσκολίες όσον αφορά τη νομοθεσία, την κρατική πολιτική και την ανεπαρκή υλική ασφάλεια, αλλά γενικά υπάρχει μια αίσθηση κατανόησης από την πλευρά της κοινωνίας, ιδιαίτερα από την πλευρά της οικογένειας και του σχολείου.
Brumadinho
Authors: Silva Rita de Cássia da , Barros Claudio Marcelo Edwards , Portulhak Henrique
Published: July 2024

O estudo analisou as implicações do desastre de Brumadinho nas ações da cadeia de suprimentos da Vale. A pesquisa abrangeu 221 empresas de 32 países em uma janela de eventos de 90 dias. Retornos anormais foram empregados para avaliar o comportamento dos ativos na cadeia de suprimentos estendida da Vale, incluindo fornecedores, fornecedores de fornecedores, clientes e clientes de clientes. Surpreendentemente, a reação negativa observada nos ativos da Vale não se estendeu à sua cadeia de suprimentos. Isso contradiz a expectativa de contágio reputacional, sugerindo uma discrepância entre a literatura e a realidade em casos de irresponsabilidade social corporativa.
Propensity to plan of young students of management
Authors: Da Silva e Silva Felipe Deodato
Published: July 2024

Management technical education improves financial knowledge of students, but its effect on financial behavior is still unclear, especially in adolescents. The paper assessed whether management technical education is associated to propensity to plan of young students. Propensity to plan was estimated by using Generalized Linear Model (binomial distribution and ‘logit’ as link function) in dataset of 201 students of Federal Institute of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso state/Brazil. Propensity to plan was 20.7% lower in students of management technical education, showing that financial literacy for adolescents is still needed even in educational programs focused on business administration.
Nonzero-Sum Optimal Stopping Game with Continuous vs. Periodic Exercise Opportunities
Authors: Pérez José Luis , Rodosthenous Neofytos , Yamazaki Kazutoshi
Published: July 2024

We introduce a new nonzero-sum game of optimal stopping with asymmetric exercise opportunities. Given a stochastic process modeling the value of an asset, one player observes and can act on the process continuously, whereas the other player can act on it only periodically at independent Poisson arrival times. The first one to stop receives a reward, different for each player, whereas the other one gets nothing. We study how each player balances the maximization of gains against the maximization of the likelihood of stopping before the opponent. In such a setup driven by a Lévy process with positive jumps, we not only prove the existence but also explicitly construct a Nash equilibrium with values of the game written in terms of the scale function. Numerical illustrations with put-option payoffs are also provided to study the behavior of the players’ strategies as well as the quantification of the value of available exercise opportunities.

Funding: K. Yamazaki was partly supported by The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (KAKENHI) [Grants 19H01791, 20K03758, and 24K06844], Open Partnership Joint Research Projects [Grant JPJSBP120209921], and the University of Queensland [start-up grant].
POR TERRA, ARTE E PÃO: ELEMENTOS DA TRAJETÓRIA DE UM PROFESSOR-PESQUISADOR-MILITANTE
Authors: Alentejano Paulo Roberto Raposo
Published: July 2024

Uma das questões mais difíceis de decidir na elaboração de um Memorial de Titular é estabelecer o marco inicial. Afinal, uma trajetória acadêmica tem vários marcos significativos: a escolha da graduação, o mestrado, o doutorado, o(s) concurso(s) para a(s) universidade(s)...
No meu caso, como a trajetória acadêmica é indissociável da minha formação e atuação política, decidi começar pelo momento do despertar para a política, que coincide com o processo de luta pelo fim da ditadura empresarial-militar iniciada com o golpe de 1964.
Uma segunda decisão crucial na organização do Memorial de Titular é a opção entre uma ordem cronológica ou uma abordagem temática. Acabei optando por uma mescla, onde a ordem cronológica é a principal referência, mas algumas temáticas extrapolam a lógica temporal.
Uma terceira questão diz respeito ao estilo de redação: como mediar a relação entre debates acadêmicos e experiências pessoais, que compõem de forma indissociável a trajetória acadêmica, sem ser pedante e tornando compreensível para quem lê (ou ouve) questões que, às vezes, são muito particulares.
Enfim, são desafios com os quais me defrontei na elaboração deste Memorial e para as quais construí respostas que talvez não sejam as mais adequadas…
Para me acompanhar nessa trajetória me apoiei em 11 dos melhores sambas de todos os tempos, ouvidos em rodas de samba ou em velhos LPs ou CDs.
«Prosvita» Society in Luhansk region in 1917
Authors: Drobysheva Olha ,   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University
Published: July 2024

The article examines the establishment and activities of the «Prosvita» Society in Luhansk region in 1917. Attention is focused on the analysis of the situation in the Slavyanoserbsky district in the Katerynoslav province, primarily in the district city Luhansk. The author provides basic biographical information about Yuriy Lysenko, the founder of the Luhansk «Prosvita», the head of an amateur theater group, a railway engineer, the nephew of the outstanding Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko, and emphasizes his role in the formation of the Ukrainian movement in Luhansk in 1917. National holidays organized in May-June 1917 are considered, not only in Luhansk, but also in Varvaropilla (modern Pervomaisk) and Lozova Pavlivka (modern Bryanka). «Prosvita's» connection with local branches of the Ukrainian Social-Democratic Labor Party (USDRP) and the Ukrainian Socialist-Revolutionary Party (UPSR) was noted, as well as its participation in the elections to the Luhansk City Duma. At the same time, it was emphasized that the main form of activity of «Prosvita» in the Slavyanoserbsky district remained cultural and educational – the opening of Ukrainian bookstores and reading rooms, libraries, the organization of historical and local history lectures. The attempt to Ukrainianize school education and its failure due to a critical shortage of teachers willing to teach in Ukrainian are considered. It is concluded that «Prosvita» in Luhansk region in 1917 was the main organizational form of participation of Ukrainians in the national-cultural revival and formation of national self-awareness. However, it could not overcome the influence of the hostile pro-Russian community, which relied on a significant part of the local intelligentsia.
Formation of the «New» Ukrainian-language periodicals in Subcarpathian Rus based on the analysis of the biweekly «Ukrainian Word» (1932–1938): main focuses and features
Authors: Smirnov Taras ,   SHEI Uzhhorod State University
Published: July 2024

The article investigates the development of Ukrainian-language periodicals in Transcarpathia during the interwar period, using the example of the newspaper «Ukrainian Word» (1932–1938). The primary focus is on the analysis of the context in which the publication was issued and its role in shaping the national consciousness of Ukrainians in Subcarpathian Rus. The main themes, editorial policy, and the newspaper's influence on the cultural life of the region are examined. The «Ukrainian Word» newspaper played a significant role in supporting national revival and resisting assimilation processes. Specifically, the influence of political, social, and cultural factors on the development of the publication is explored. The features of the newspaper's content and its editorial policy under the leadership of Mykhailo Braschaiko and Vasyl Hrenzha-Donsky are also considered. Analysis of archival materials and contemporary research helps to understand the contribution of the «Ukrainian Word» newspaper in forming the national identity of Ukrainians in Subcarpathian Rus.