bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The insupportable validity of mosquito subspecies (Diptera: Culicidae) and their exclusion from culicid classification
Authors: HARBACH RALPH E. , WILKERSON RICHARD C.
Published: June 2023

Beginning about 80 years ago, the recognition of morphological varieties of mosquitoes was gradually replaced by the recognition of subspecies. As an examination of revisionary and detailed taxonomic studies of mosquitoes clearly shows, subspecies are untenable concepts which have been synonymized with nominotypical forms or recognized as distinct species. Thus, from our perspective, subspecies is not a functional or practical taxonomic rank. Consequently, in this study we critically assessed the taxonomic status of the 120 nominal taxa distinguished as subspecies before now to determine whether they should be recognized as separate species or synonymous names. As a result, 96 subspecies are formally elevated to specific rank, 22 are relegated to synonymy with nominotypical forms, one is considered a nomen dubium, one a species inquirenda and the names of four nominal species regarded as synonyms are revalidated. The subspecies and their new status are listed in a conspectus. The revalidated species include Anopheles argentinus (Brèthes, 1912), from synonymy with An. pseudopunctipennis Theobald, 1901c; An. peruvianus Tamayo, 1907, from synonymy with An. pseudopunctipennis as nomen dubium; Culex major Edwards, 1935, from synonymy with Cx. annulioris consimilis Newstead, 1907; and Trichoprosopon trichorryes (Dyar & Knab, 1907), from synonymy with Tr. compressum Lutz, 1905. Additionally, the type locality of Anopheles sergentii Theobald, 1907 is restricted to El Outaya, Biskra Province, Algeria. A complete list of species to be retained, added to or removed from the Encyclopedia of Life, with a few corrections, is provided.
Near surface residual stress detection of metallic materials using the high order ultrasonic nonlinear coefficient
Authors: Quan Silong , Zhang Yuhua , Li Yuezhong , Lin Peisan
Published: June 2023

Because residual stress seriously affects the mechanical properties of metallic components, in the study the nonlinear property of LCR wave is studied and the near surface residual stress within a certain depth beneath the component surface is nondestructively detected for the safe
service of metal components. The stress detection system based on LCR wave is constructed using the oblique incident method with one-in-one-out mode. The high order relative nonlinear coefficients, β′ and δ′, during 45 steel tensile process are measured
to investigate the correlation between nonlinear property of ultrasonic and stress. Two pairs of relative nonlinear coefficients monotonically increase and the stress sensitivity of δ′ is better than β′. In order to eliminate the sensitivity difference,
the comprehensive nonlinear parameter is proposed. Three stress detection models based on experimental data are established and the error of residual stress evaluation are all below 4%, this indicates the nonlinear characteristics of LCR wave can be used to detect the stress level within a
certain depth beneath the component surface. So the high-order ultrasonic nonlinear coefficients of LCR wave provides an effective method of rapid non-destructive detection the near surface residual stress of metallic material.
MiR-155 regulates macrophage polarization and alleviates myocardial fibrosis through paracrine secretion of transforming growth factor-beta 1 in ischemic heart failure
Authors: Zhao Fenfen , Qu Lingguang , Wu Jun
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the mechanism underlying miR-155 in ischemic heart failure. The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in rats was detected by color Doppler echocardiography. After the myocardial tissues were stained with Masson and Sirius red respectively, TGF-βexpression was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, rat cardiomyocytes were transfected with miR-155 inhibitor, miR-155 mimic, TGF-βagonist or TGF-βinhibitor followed by analysis of levels of miR-155 and TGF-βby real time quantitative PCR. M1 polarization index of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and M2 type polarization indexes of IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-βwere examined by western blot. Among the three groups of rats, the LVEF of rats in model group was the lowest (p< 0.05) but it was elevated in miR-155 group, whilst the accumulated collagen fibers and hyperplasia in the myocardium were reduced upon miR-155 treatment. Of note, the myocardial tissue of modeled rats had the highest TGF-βlevel, but miR-155 overexpression or inhibitor dramatically decreased TGF-βlevel as well as protein expressions of LPS, IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β, with the lowest level in miR-155 group. Interestingly, TGF-βagonist treatment resulted in a decrease in LPS while IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-βinhibitor caused opposite outcome. miR-155 can regulate the level of macrophage polarization and paracrine TGF-βand overexpressed miR-155 abrogates the effect of TGF-βon cardiac fibers, alleviating the myocardial ischemic in heart failure. TGF-βcan also affect the biological function of LPS. miR-155 might become a target for the treatment of ischemic heart failure and myocardial fibrosis.
Professional Preparedness Implications of Workplace Violence against Medical Students in Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Vu Linh Gia , Nguyen Hoang Long , Le Vu Ngoc Minh , Nguyen Si Anh Hao , Nathan Nila , Trong Dam Vu Anh , Vu Thuc Minh Thi , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Cyrus S.H. , Ho Roger C.M.
Published: June 2023

Workplace violence is an increasing public health concern around the world. In Vietnam, attacks on healthcare workers have become a huge issue in recent years. Our study aims to shed more light on the issue and look at what variables affect acts of violence toward healthcare workers. We conducted this cross-sectional study by surveying 550 medical students from 3 universities in Vietnam. Following this survey on SurveyMonkey’s platform (surveymonkey.com), the participants were suggested to invite their associates who met the selection criteria to join in this online survey. The structured questionnaire included demographics and details on the violence. There were 90.5% of respondents were medical students, the mean age was 23.3, and verbal abuse had a prevalence rate of 29.3%. Women respondents are less likely to suffer from violent experiences than men (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.28-0.84), and those specializing in nurse and technician also faced a lower rate of acts of aggression (physical violence: OR = 0.35; 95% CI = 0.19-0.63, sexual harassment: OR = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.15-0.87, and any type of violence: OR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.37-0.82). Medical students working in Ho Chi Minh City (OR = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.34-0.89), and other regions (OR = 0.40; 95% CI = 0.19-0.85) were significantly less likely to face verbal abuse than those working in Hanoi. The workplace culture needs to be changed to make sure that people feel comfortable reporting, especially those who are younger. Protecting medical students also ensures patient safety since victims of assault in the workplace can have severe aftereffects affecting their ability to provide good patient care. Hence, policies need to be implemented at both the government and hospital administration levels to keep health workers safe.
Conical near-field acoustic holography based on cylindrical wave function of variable radius and nonconformal plane measurement
Authors: Cheng Wei , Song Chao , Han Shengming , Ou Ka , Chen Xuefeng , Gao Lin , Nie Zelin , Zhang Peng , Ni Jinglei
Published: June 2023

In practical acoustical measurement for large cones, maintaining coaxial and conformal between the holographic surface and reconstructed surface is usually tedious. To overcome this flaw, a conical near-field acoustic holography (NAH) based on cylindrical wave function of variable radius and nonconformal plane measurement is proposed in this paper. First, cylindrical wave function of variable radius (VR)–based modified statistically optimal cylindrical NAH (SOCNAH) method, entitled VR-SOCNAH, is proposed, which is more applicable to conical surfaces. Second, with the measured sound pressure data on the holographic plane, sound pressure on the conical conformal surface is first reconstructed using statistically optimal planar NAH (SOPNAH), and sound pressure on the reconstructed surface is then reconstructed using VR-SOCNAH. Third, fixed and variable radius measurement methods are comparatively studied, and the former is adopted. Furthermore, a measurement parameter optimization method based on orthogonal experiment is proposed to determine appropriate value ranges. Finally, the proposed NAH is applied to a test bed, and the robustness and accuracy of sound field reconstruction for large cones are significantly enhanced, which provides reliable scientific basis and engineering guidance for noise monitoring and control of mechanical equipment.
Anxiety and Depression Diagnoses and the Cough Severity Index: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hari Gopika , Naunheim Matthew , Kallogjeri Dorina , Huston Molly
Published: June 2023

Background: As mental health comorbidities can impact patient perception of symptoms, understanding a potential association of anxiety and depression with patients’ perception of their cough may provide insight into preferred treatment plans. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of patients presenting with chronic cough was completed. Demographics, anxiety and depression diagnoses, and patient-reported outcome measures were collected. Patient-reported outcomes between the four groups of patients—anxiety only, depression only, anxiety and depression, and none of these conditions—were compared using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests that were used for post-hoc analysis. Results: Cough Severity Index scores were higher in those with both anxiety and depression as compared to neither, with a median score of 26 (range: 5-39) versus 19 (range: 1-38), respectively ( P = .041). These results were persistent also after controlling for sex and smoking status in the robust regression analysis. Conclusions: Patients with prior diagnoses of anxiety and depression self-reported more severe symptoms for chronic cough. Adequately understanding the association of mental health with perceived cough severity may help for more individualized, successful treatment plans.
Using Item Scores and Distractors to Detect Test Speededness
Authors: Gorney Kylie , Wollack James A. , Bolt Daniel M.
Published: June 2023

Test speededness refers to a situation in which examinee performance is inadvertently affected by the time limit of the test. Because speededness has the potential to severely bias both person and item parameter estimates, it is crucial that speeded examinees are detected. In this article, we develop a change-point analysis (CPA) procedure for detecting test speededness. Our procedure distinguishes itself from existing CPA procedures by using information from both item scores and distractors. Using detailed simulations, we show that under most conditions, the new CPA procedure improves the detection of speeded examinees and produces more accurate change-point estimates. It therefore seems there is a considerable amount of information to be gained from the item distractors, which, quite notably are available in all multiple-choice data. A real data example is also provided.
Cross-linguistic influence and language co-activation in acquiring L3 words: What empirical evidence do we have so far?
Authors: Otwinowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

Third language (L3) lexical acquisition is still underexplored. In this article I overview theoretical and empirical evidence on L3 lexical acquisition and the role of cross-linguistic influence (CLI) in learning L3 words. I explain the mechanism of CLI as resulting from language co-activation in the multilingual learner’s/user’s mind. Consequently, I aim to ground L3 lexical studies in previous research on second language (L2) word processing and learning, and to emphasize the role of cross-linguistic similarity (cognates and false cognates) in the process. While capitalizing upon similarity predominantly facilitates acquiring L2 and L3 words, the precise mechanisms of L3 lexical acquisition are still obscured. It is unclear whether any overlap of an L3 form with the native or L2 form suffices to boost learning, or whether all previous languages influence L3 lexical acquisition cumulatively. To seek answers to this issue, I review empirical evidence for CLI and cross-linguistic similarity in L3 vocabulary acquisition from three research strands: L3 word processing experiments, L3 cognate guessing tasks, and L3 word learning experiments. Overall, this article aims to bridge the gap between psycholinguistic and applied linguistic research on L3 lexical acquisition, and argues for controlling an array of variables modulating research outcomes.
Cost-Effectiveness of Off-Road Equipment Electrification Incentives: Cost Estimation, Evaluation, and Usage Framework
Authors: Un-Noor Fuad , Scora George , Wu Guoyuan , Yoon Seungju , Boriboonsomsin Kanok
Published: June 2023

Effective incentive strategies have played a major role in the electrification of on-road vehicles. Similar approaches to the off-road sector will be needed to continue decarbonizing the transportation sector. Estimating cost-effectiveness with given incentive funds is crucial to successfully develop and implement financial incentive strategies. Because of the lack of cost information for electric off-road equipment, forecasting cost-effectiveness of electrifying the off-road fleet is not feasible. We developed cost projection models for major components of off-road equipment and combined them into an equipment cost simulation tool. This simulation tool was then used to estimate NO x, particulate matter, and CO2 emission-based cost-effectiveness when diesel off-road equipment is replaced with equivalent electric equipment. Use of the developed cost-effectiveness framework in developing incentive strategies was also demonstrated. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to address potential variations of the assumptions made for projecting the cost of components and the resulting cost-effectiveness estimates. The framework demonstrated in this paper will inform governmental inventive funding programs to design the most cost-effective strategies, considering equipment vocation, model year, and usage.
Assessment of Innovative Repair Methods for Corroded Steel Girder Bridges Using the House of Quality Matrix
Authors: Tarasova Anna , Kanakamedala Deven , Varma Amit H. , Seo Jungil , Connor Robert J.
Published: June 2023

Across the U.S.A., steel girder bridges experience significant deterioration caused by corrosion, and the current repair methods for corroded steel girders require considerable time and cost. Corrosion is typically found at end-span locations above girder supports at abutments and piers caused by deicers and water leaking from the deck joints. Therefore, there is a need for effective, rapid, and robust repair strategies that can be implemented by bridge maintenance personnel. This paper presents five innovative repair methods for rehabilitating corroded steel girder bridges. The five innovative repair methods were evaluated to select two repair procedures that can be implemented by the local Department of Transportation (DOT) in Indiana. During the evaluation process, typical and critical requirements associated with repair methods for corrosion-damaged steel girders were considered, including robustness, reduction of implementation cost, and time. Furthermore, feedback from the local DOT in Indiana was collected to identify any additional requirements. The evaluation was completed by choosing two innovative repair methods through a selection process called the house of quality matrix, which is a commonly used tool in the consumer product industry. After completing the evaluation, two repair methods, “sandwich panel” and “web strengthening with diagonally oriented angles,” were selected.
Scaling Risk Index of Concretes Containing Nano-TiO2 and Supplementary Cementitious Materials
Authors: Huang Dan , Velay-Lizancos Mirian , Olek Jan
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a novel approach for assessment of scaling resistance of concretes with variable compositions (i.e., with and without addition of nano-TiO2 as well as with and without addition of fly ash and slag cement). The proposed approach is based on correlations between the data from thermogravimetric analysis of hydrated pastes and the results from actual scaling resistance tests. The results of the traditional (i.e., following the ASTM C672-03 method) scaling resistance test revealed that the effect of nano-TiO2 on the scaling resistance of concrete depended on the composition of the cementitious binder system (i.e., it was observed to change depending on whether the binder system contained or did not contain supplementary cementitious materials [SCMs]). While the use of nano-TiO2 improved the strength regardless of the type of concrete (i.e., it was effective in both plain concretes and in concretes with SCMs), the effect of nano-TiO2 addition on the scaling resistance was affected by the type of binder used in the mixture. The proposed scaling risk index correlated well with the actual scaling resistance test data (obtained from the ASCTM C672-03 test) from ordinary Portland cement and fly ash concretes with different mixture proportions and cured at different temperatures before the test.
Quality assessment of adhesive joints using third harmonics of fundamental shear horizontal wave mode
Authors: Balachandran Akhil , Balasubramaniam Krishnan
Published: June 2023

This study aims to investigate the bond quality of aluminum–epoxy–aluminum tri-layer bonds using nonlinear ultrasonics. An experimental methodology was developed in which the tri-layer bonds with different interface qualities were inspected using the fundamental shear horizontal guided wave mode (SH0). An in-house developed magnetostrictive transducer assembly was used to excite the SH0 wave mode in the bonded samples. The harmonic generation of the SH0 wave mode was confirmed using dispersion curves overlaid on short-time Fourier transform (STFT) and frequency–wavenumber plots. The sensitivity of the third harmonics to the interface quality of the bonds was estimated using a relative nonlinearity parameter ([Formula: see text]). In this work, the mean [Formula: see text] for the non-sandblasted bond is found to be 70% more than that of the sandblasted sample, which shows the sensitivity of the third-harmonic generation to the interfacial degradation. The analysis shows that the technique can be implemented for a quick and early inspection of the bonded samples for their bond quality.
Atezolizumab-induced cerebellar ataxia in a patient with metastatic small cell lung cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Kapagan Tanju , Aksu Faruk , Yuzkan Sabahattin , Bulut Nilufer , Erdem Gokmen Umut
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have an important role in the treatment of malignant tumors, is increasing. Although rarely observed, neurological immune-related adverse events associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors result in high morbidity and mortality. Small cell lung cancer is a common cause of neurological paraneoplastic syndromes. The differentiation between paraneoplastic syndromes and neurological immune-related adverse events is important in patients using immune checkpoint inhibitors. Cerebellar ataxia caused by atezolizumab is a rare immune-related adverse event.

Case report

In this context, we present a 66-year-old man with small cell lung cancer who developed immune-mediated cerebellar ataxia after three cycles of atezolizumab, a programmed cell death ligand-1 inhibitor. The admission of brain and spinal gadolinium-based contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging supported the preliminary diagnosis and indicated leptomeningeal involvement. However, the blood tests and a lumbar puncture did not reveal any structural, biochemical, paraneoplastic, or infectious cause.

Management and outcome

High-dose steroid treatment resulted in an improvement in the radiological involvement, as evidenced both clinically and on follow-up whole spine magnetic resonance imaging. Therefore, the immunotherapy was discontinued. The patient was discharged on day 20 without neurological sequelae.

Discussion

In light of this, we present this case to emphasize the differential diagnosis of neurological immune-related adverse events originating from immune checkpoint inhibitors, which require rapid diagnosis and treatment, and clinically similar paraneoplastic syndromes and radiologically similar leptomeningeal involvement, in a case of small cell lung cancer.
Safety and efficacy of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and selenium supplementation in the oncology setting: A systematic review
Authors: Barnhart AS , Anthony AL , Conaway KR , Sibbitt BG , Delaney E , Haluschak J , Kathula S , Chen AMH
Published: June 2023

Objective

With rising rates of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use, the exploration of CAM integration into oncology treatments is becoming increasingly prevalent. Antioxidants have been proposed as potentially beneficial to prevent or treat cancer. However, evidence summaries are limited, and the United States Preventive Services Task Force has recently recommended the use of Vitamin C and E supplementation for cancer prevention. Thus, the objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the existing literature on the safety and efficacy of antioxidant supplementation in oncology patients.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, using prespecified search terms in PubMed and CINAHL. Two reviewers independently reviewed titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, with a third reviewer resolving conflicts, before the included articles underwent data extraction and quality appraisal.

Results

Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria. Of the included studies, nine evaluated selenium, eight evaluated Vitamin C, four evaluated Vitamin E, and three of these studies included a combination of two or more of these agents. The most frequently evaluated cancer types included colorectal cancer ( n = 4), leukemias ( n = 4), breast cancer ( n = 3), and genitourinary cancers ( n = 3). Most of the studies focused on the antioxidants’ therapeutic efficacy ( n = 15) or their use in protecting against chemotherapy- or radiation-induced side effects ( n = 8), and one study evaluated the role of an antioxidant in protection against cancer. Findings were generally favorable among the studies, and adverse effects of supplementation were limited. Furthermore, the average score for all the included articles on the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was 4.2, indicating the high quality of the studies.

Conclusions

Antioxidant supplements may provide benefits in reducing incidence or severity of treatment-induced side effects with limited risk for adverse effects. Large, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings among various cancer diagnoses and stages. Healthcare providers should understand the safety and efficacy of these therapies to address questions that arise in caring for those with cancer.
Dark Persistence: Black College Women's COVID-19 Photo Essays
Authors: Turner Jennifer D.
Published: June 2023

Guided by intersectional multimodal literacy frameworks and analytic methods, this qualitative study explored how seven high-achieving Black undergraduate women's photo essays visually and textually represented their persistence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo essays, in this context, are intersectional multimodal compositions that use images and words to articulate the challenges that the women faced during COVID-19 and the resources that promoted their persistence. Data sources included a demographic questionnaire, the women's digital photo essays, and lengthy photo-elicitation interviews with the women on Zoom. Findings reveal that the women's photo essays evoked an endarkened persistence, rooted in the legacy of Black people's collective struggle and survival, and represented by two interrelated themes: Affirming Black Beauty (i.e., Embracing natural Black hair and Caring for Black female bodies) and Honoring the Spirit (i.e., (Re)connecting with sistafriends, (Re)claiming rest, and Nurturing creativity). Research and practical implications are discussed.
8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine and malondialdehyde in plasma and their association with disease severity in 20 cats with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Nishi Reo , Harada Airi , Hori Koji , Maeda Shingo , Momoi Yasuyuki , Yonezawa Tomohiro
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Oxidative stress is associated with the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of oxidative stress markers, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA), in the plasma and urine of cats with different stages of CKD.

Methods

Plasma and urine samples were collected from cats with CKD that were referred to the Veterinary Medical Center of the University of Tokyo between April 2019 and October 2022. Plasma and urine samples were collected from healthy cats (n = 6 at most), cats with stage 2 CKD (n = 8) and stage 3–4 CKD (n = 12), and cats with idiopathic cystitis (disease control, n = 5). Plasma and urine concentrations of 8-OHdG and MDA were measured using ELISA and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay kits, respectively.

Results

The median plasma 8-OHdG concentrations were 0.156 ng/ml (<0.125–0.210 ng/ml) in the healthy group, <0.125 ng/ml (range <0.125 ng/ml) in the idiopathic cystitis group, 0.246 ng/ml (range 0.170–0.403 ng/ml) in cats with stage 2 CKD and 0.433 ng/ml (range 0.209–1.052 ng/ml) in cats with stage 3–4 CKD. Concentrations in stage 3–4 CKD were significantly higher than those in the healthy and disease control groups. Plasma MDA concentrations were low in the healthy and disease control groups and significantly higher in cats with stage 3–4 CKD. In every cat with CKD, plasma 8-OHdG and MDA concentrations were positively correlated with plasma creatinine concentrations (8-OHdG, rs = 0.68; MDA, rs = 0.67). Urinary 8-OHdG/urinary creatinine (u-CRE) and urinary MDA/u-CRE levels did not differ significantly between the groups; however, it was difficult to evaluate them because of the small sample size.

Conclusions and relevance

This report shows that plasma 8-OHdG and MDA concentrations increase with the severity of feline CKD. These markers may be useful for assessing oxidative stress in cats with CKD.
Evaluating the efficacy and safety of transitioning patients with multiple sclerosis from natalizumab to ocrelizumab (OCTAVE)
Authors: Smoot Kyle , Marginean Horia , Gervasi-Follmar Tiffany , Chen Chiayi , Repovic Pavle , Cohan Stanley
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Natalizumab is associated with a risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients infected with John Cunningham virus (JCV). Ocrelizumab has demonstrated efficacy to treat MS; however, its safety in patients previously treated with natalizumab is unclear.

Objective:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ocrelizumab in patients with relapsing MS (RMS) previously treated with natalizumab.

Methods:

Clinically and radiographically stable RMS patients, ages 18–65 treated with natalizumab for ⩾ 12 months, were enrolled in the study and initiated ocrelizumab 4–6 weeks after their final dose of natalizumab. Relapse assessment, expanded disability status scale, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed prior to starting ocrelizumab and at months 3, 6, 9, and 12.

Results:

Forty-three patients were enrolled, and 41 (95%) completed the study. Two patients had a relapse while on ocrelizumab, one at month 9 and the other at month 12, without changes on brain MRI. Two additional patients had new brain MRI lesions detected at month 3, with no new symptoms. Thirteen serious adverse events (SAEs) were recorded, four of which were considered possibly related to ocrelizumab.

Conclusion:

Overall, our study indicates clinical and MRI stability for most patients transitioning from natalizumab to ocrelizumab.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:

NCT03157830
To move closer or farther away: Active domestication and limited role of using digital media by the visually impaired people in China
Authors: Jing Tian , Gao Linxuan , Zhang Huifeng
Published: June 2023

There are about 13 million visually disabled people in China, among which more than 8 million are blind. As an information-vulnerable group, they have unequal access to digital media. In this context, this study, by applying domestication theory, analyzes the use of digital media by the visually impaired in China based on 40 deep interviews and finds out that digital media, as a necessary opportunity, can indeed create more possibilities for increasing the social participation and improving the daily life of the visually impaired. But due to systematic and personal factors, this opportunity cannot be enjoyed by all visually impaired people. Visually impaired people have a strong subjective initiative, which can weaken the impact of digital exclusion on themselves to a certain extent. But social inclusion still determines the effect of digital inclusion, which needs to be taken seriously.
Introduction: Axel Honneth’s “The Working Sovereign”
Authors: Schmidt Christian , Jaeggi Rahel , Celikates Robin
Published: June 2023

In his 2021 Walter Benjamin Lectures, Axel Honneth questioned the displacement of work from the center of contemporary political theories. This special issue collects an interview with Axel Honneth on central theses of his lectures and a number of commentaries that discuss issues like Honneth’s extended definition of work, his inclusion of long neglected care activities in the definition of work, the requirements for non-detrimental, meaningful work, Honneth’s criticism of contemporary trends in the division of labor, as well as his rejection of traditional critiques of working relations and conditions such as above all the critique of alienation. The special issue closes with a rejoinder by Axel Honneth.
Numerical simulation on the acoustic wave scattering and fluid perturbations inside confined orifice flow
Authors: Chen Wenyu , Wang Peng , Liu Yingzheng
Published: June 2023

Acoustic wave scattering and fluid perturbations produced by interactions between incident acoustic wave and confined orifice flow were investigated by a combined numerical solution containing nonlinear flow simulation and linearized acoustic simulation. In flow simulations, the mainstream Reynolds number was fixed at 10,000, which relates to the cooling pipe system of lithography. Turbulent flow fields corresponding to different orifice geometries were solved by an opensource finite volume solver OpenFOAM with Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes turbulence model. The turbulence database could efficiently improve the accuracy of subsequent linearized acoustic simulations as the viscosity dissipations were considered. In acoustic simulations, the linearized Navier-Stokes equations were solved by a finite element solver with transformation into frequency domain. The incident acoustic waves with varying frequencies from 500 Hz to 4000 Hz were arranged first at the inlet and then the outlet surfaces, enabling a two-port analysis on the transmission and reflection coefficients of acoustic waves. The numerical setup and the two-port model were well validated by results in literature. Generally, acoustic waves tend to gradually dissipate as their frequencies increase or the opening ratio of the ducted orifice decreases. However, the nonlinear variation in the transmission and reflection coefficients against the frequency variation of the incident acoustic waves could be investigated by increasing the thickness ratio. The acoustically induced fluid perturbations that were characterized by the Q-criterion could form a ring shape vortex structure in the vicinity of the orifice edge and then develop into disk-like packets. When the circumferential shape of the orifice was changed to a square, the attenuation of the incident acoustic waves corresponded to the intensity of the three-dimensionality of the acoustic-induced vortex structures, which indicated a greater energy transfer from the acoustic waves to the fluid perturbations.
Does Anxiety Make Us “Informed” Citizens? The Mediating Role of Information-Seeking and Internal Political Efficacy in Forming Political Attitudes
Authors: Romanova Ekaterina , Hutchens Myiah J
Published: June 2023

Emotions are inseparable from political decision-making. This idea has been especially strongly supported for negative emotions. The current study examines the role of anxiety in forming political attitudes using data from a nationally representative American National Election Studies survey ( N = 5900). Our path analysis highlights a significant indirect relationship between anxiety and political participation through two mediators: information-seeking tendencies and internal political efficacy. By examining the unique role of anxiety in political decision-making, our study provides a more nuanced understanding of how negative emotions can impact democracy.
Open Emergency Repair of a Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm on a 12-Year-Old Boy With Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: Corso-Ramirez Julian M. , López Mariana Molina , Flórez Paula Camila , Barrera-Carvajal Juan Guillermo , Mackenzie Jaime Camacho
Published: June 2023

Tuberous sclerosis complex is a neurocutaneous syndrome caused by an autosomal dominant genetic disorder. This condition can lead to the expression of many vascular anomalies especially, in the pediatric population. Likewise, it has been linked with aortic aneurysm development. We report a case of a 12-year-old boy who presented a 97 × 70 mm Crawford type IV thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. Satisfactory open surgical repair was performed with an 18-mm multibranched dacron tube graft. Clinical and imaging findings revealed a de novo tuberous sclerosis diagnosis. The patient was discharged uneventfully during a 1-month follow-up.
Writing about the Holocaust as Scholars and Survivors: Early Holocaust Research and the Practices of Restitution and Reparations
Authors: Corsten Anna
Published: June 2023

This article looks at the impact sources produced in the practice of restitution and reparation had on early Holocaust historiography. It analyses the examples of two Holocaust researchers from the first generation who today are perceived as important pioneers in their field of study: Henry Friedlander and Raul Hilberg. While both held strong personal opinions about the practice of restitution, they did not use sources produced in it for their research. This article explores three main reasons for this omission. The first one is connected to the questions of how they wanted to study the Holocaust. The second reason is to be found in their moral criticism of the practice itself. The third reason lays in the actual effects their research had on legal proceedings resulting from the Holocaust. In the end, this article argues that their decision of how to study the Holocaust was very closely intertwined with what these scholars perceived as their task as historians. An analysis of the first generation's take on restitution and reparation practices provides insights into the development of early Holocaust historiography. It shows what they perceived as their obligation as historians of the Holocaust as well as difficulties they faced by addressing the topic.
Scalar auxiliary variable approache for the surface quasi-geostrophic equation
Authors: Shi Shengtao , Song Fangying
Published: June 2023

We present a numerical method for approximating the two-dimensional surface quasi-geostrophic equation. We first reformulate the equation into an equivalent system by using the scalar auxiliary variable approach. Then we propose first-order and second-order discretization schemes for solving the new surface quasi-geostrophic system in time. Furthermore, we prove that both of these schemes based on the scalar auxiliary variable approach satisfy an unconditionally energy stability property. Since the method gives two linear equations with constant coefficients in each time step. We have an efficient approach and accurate for solving these spacial fractional diffusion equations. Ample numerical experiments are carried out to validate the correctness of these schemes and their accuracy for inviscid problems and the problems with small viscosity.
Is it part of my job? Prosecution and restorative justice in Chile
Authors: Galleguillos Sebastián , Figueroa Ulda O
Published: June 2023

Unlike most Latin American countries, the implementation of restorative justice in Chile has not been regulated by law. In Chile, restorative justice is implemented on a limited basis through pilot programs limited to specific jurisdictions. Most of these pilot programs establish prosecutors as gatekeepers when referring criminal cases to restorative justice programs. Regardless of this crucial role, there is a lack of studies addressing prosecutors’ definitions toward restorative justice and the obstacles they face when referring criminal cases to restorative programs. This study fills this gap by interviewing high-ranking prosecutors from Chile (N = 25), exploring their definitions and obstacles in applying restorative programs within the adversarial system. Our findings reveal the existence of contrasting restorative justice definitions, including victim-centered perspectives and conceptualizations focused on the rehabilitation and punishment of the accused. Also, our findings suggest that legal rules and policies play a key role in the prosecutors’ application of restorative justice programs. The obstacles to apply restorative justice programs include two main themes: (1) prosecutors’ conflicting roles and duties toward victims and (2) values incompatible with restorative justice promoted by public defenders. We conclude by highlighting policy and training implications to expand the use of restorative justice programs in adversarial settings.
Helicobacter pylori in children: think before you kill the bug!
Authors: Ravikumara M
Published: June 2023

Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori) as the causative organism for gastric and duodenal ulcers four decades ago and subsequent recognition as class 1 gastric carcinogen, countless numbers of studies have been conducted and papers published, on the efficacy of various management strategies to eradicate the infection. In adults, a global consensus by the experts in the field concluded that H. pylori gastritis is an infectious disease and requires treatment irrespective of the presence or absence of symptoms due to the potential for serious complication like peptic ulcer disease and gastric neoplasia. However, although more than half the world’s population harbors H. pylori, these serious complications occur only in a small minority of the infected population, even less so in childhood. More importantly, there is accumulating evidence for beneficial role of H. pylori against many chronic health conditions, from several epidemiological and laboratory studies. No doubt, eradication therapy is indicated in children with H. pylori-related peptic ulcer disease. Even though the pediatric guidelines from various learned societies recommend against a “test and treat” strategy, this is not always adhered to. With the accumulating evidence of the possible beneficial role of H. pylori, it is time to pause and think, are we causing more harm than good by eradicating H. pylori in every child who has this bug?
Informed consent process for emergency surgery: A scoping review of stakeholders’ perspectives, challenges, ethical concepts, and policies
Authors: Kituuka Olivia , Munabi Ian Guyton , Mwaka Erisa Sabakaki , Galukande Moses , Harris Michelle , Sewankambo Nelson
Published: June 2023

Background:

A scoping review of literature about the informed consent process for emergency surgery from the perspectives of the patients, next of kin, emergency staff, and available guiding policies.

Objectives:

To provide an overview of the informed consent process for emergency surgery; the challenges that arise from the perspectives of the patients, emergency staff, and next of kin; policies that guide informed consent for emergency surgery; and to identify any knowledge gaps that could guide further inquiry in this area.

Methods:

We searched Google Scholar, PubMed/MEDLINE databases as well as Sheridan Libraries and Welch Medical Library from 1990 to 2021. We included journal articles published in English and excluded non-peer-reviewed journal articles, unpublished manuscripts, and conference abstracts. The themes explored were emergency surgery consent, ethical and theoretical concepts, stakeholders’ perceptions, challenges, and policies on emergency surgery. Articles were reviewed by three independent reviewers for relevance.

Results:

Of the 65 articles retrieved, 18 articles were included. Of the 18 articles reviewed, 5 addressed emergency informed consent, 9 stakeholders’ perspectives, 7 the challenges of emergency informed consent, 3 ethical and theoretical concepts of emergency informed consent, and 3 articles addressed policies of emergency surgery informed consent.

Conclusion:

There is poor satisfaction in the informed consent process in emergency surgery. Impaired capacity to consent and limited time are a challenge. Policies recommend that informed consent should not delay life-saving emergency care and patient’s best interests must be upheld.
A case of reactive arthritis caused by a perianal abscess
Authors: Lv Pan , Liu Pingdan , Zhou Xiaoqin , Liu Jianping
Published: June 2023

Reactive arthritis is an immune-mediated aseptic arthritis resulting from either genitourinary or intestinal tract in a genetically susceptible host. Reactive arthritis is not uncommon, and the most common infectious agents are Chlamydia trachomatis, Salmonella, Yersinia, and Shigella, some new infectious agents include Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Rothia mucilaginosa, and umbilical cord–derived Wharton’s jelly, as well as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which has been more studied in recent years. We found that reactive arthritis caused by infection of perianal abscesses is very rare and few cases have been described in the medical literature. We report a 21-year-old man with polyarticular swelling and pain, and subcutaneous hematoma at his right ankle joint; he was considered reactive arthritis. After treating with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, sulfasalazine, surgery, and antibiotics, the patient’s arthralgia gradually improved and the symptoms largely disappeared at the 1-month follow-up.
Exploring the Effects of Automated Written Corrective Feedback on EFL Students’ Writing Quality: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Fan Ning
Published: June 2023

Despite a large number of studies on the adoption of automated writing evaluation (AWE) systems, the effects of automated written corrective feedback (AWCF) on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students’ writing has been insufficiently documented. This study employed a mixed-method approach to examine such effects because of the significance of AWCF in EFL writing. Using a quasi-experimental design, this study explored how AWCF through Grammarly affected EFL students’ writing quality. A total of 67 EFL students from two intact university English classes participated in this study, with a treatment group receiving two rounds of Grammarly feedback and teacher feedback while a comparison group receiving teacher feedback only. The results of the posttest writing task revealed that the students from the treatment group did not significantly outperform the students from the comparison group in syntactic and lexical complexity, accuracy, and fluency. A follow-up questionnaire consisting of fixed-response and open-ended questions was administered to the students from the treatment group after the posttest to elicit the students’ perceptions of Grammarly feedback effects on their writing. The qualitative findings supported and provided deeper insights into the quantitative results. This study was concluded with a discussion of its limitations and implications.
Reflecting on the Synergy Between Computer-Mediated Intercultural Communication and the Coronavirus Memory Archive: An Intrinsic Case Study
Authors: Ypsilanti Angeliki , Karras Ioannis
Published: June 2023

The coursebook-centered approach adopted by the Hellenic Open University’s Master’s program in TEIL/TEFL has lost momentum during the coronavirus lockdown periods. This study addresses synergies between institutional policy and involved participants through the experience of an EFL teacher with a Computer-Mediated Intercultural Communication-based assignment about the online archivability of teaching and learning reflections. Relying on her study journal, the EFL teacher proposed a reflection-based inquiry into the compilation of a student-generated coronavirus memory archive on the e-me digital platform. Three journaling spaces emerged in the context of teacher development: the physical, the digital and the academic archive. The results indicated the transformative effects that archival procedures have on the dominant training practices of a graduate-level TEFL program. This study holds implications for flipping a switch on the educator-educatee relationship, while examining how reflective teaching pedagogy assimilates the learners’ creative response to remoteness.
Optimistic Glimmer Towards Transgender Discrimination: An Overview
Authors: Krishnakumar Sheeja
Published: June 2023

Transgender individuals, unlike other gender, hardly enjoy the facilities and get opportunities. This study looks into the perception of all genders regarding the discrimination to transgender individuals after amendment in the recent Bill. The responsibility of the media is pondered along with the requirement of the legal support that can reduce the discriminatory attitude. Four hundred and eighty samples were collected. The data were collected using snowball sampling and the tools used for analysis were regression and mediation. Regression was conducted to find out whether the attitude of discrimination is due to mindset, behavioural style or capability. A mediation test was conducted to find the mediation of media or legal support to reduce the discriminating attitude where mind set is the independent variable. The multiple regression analysis revealed that mindset and behavioural style are the causes of discrimination. The mediation test shows that the mediation of media support could reduce the mindset of discriminating attitude. The intervention of the media is required to bring about a change in the negative mindset of society.