bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public perspectives on inequality and mental health: A peer research study
Authors: Pinfold Vanessa , Thompson Rose , Lewington Alex , Samuel Gillian , Jayacodi Sandra , Jones Oliver , Vadgama Ami , Crawford Achille , Fischer Laura E. , Dykxhoorn Jennifer , Kidger Judi , Oliver Emily J. , Duncan Fiona ,   Members of the SPHR Public Mental Health Programme
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Associations between structural inequalities and health are well established. However, there is limited work examining this link in relation to mental health, or that centres public perspectives. This study explores people's experience and sense‐making of inequality in their daily lives, with particular consideration of impacts on mental health.

Methods

We conducted a peer research study. Participants had to live in one of two London Boroughs and have an interest in inequalities and mental health. Using social media, newsletters, local organisations and our peer researchers' contacts, we recruited 30 participants who took photos representing their experience of inequality and discussed them during semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified in this study: (1) inequalities are unjust, multilayered and intertwined with mental health. Accounts demonstrated a deep understanding of inequalities and their link to mental health outcomes, describing inequalities as ‘suffering’ and ‘not good for anyone’. Financial, housing, immigration and healthcare problems exacerbated poor mental health, with racism, gender‐based violence and job loss also contributing factors for both poor mental health and experiences of inequality; (2) inequalities exclude and have far‐reaching mental health consequences, impacting personal sense of belonging and perceived societal value and (3) moving forwards—addressing long‐standing inequality and poor public mental health necessitated coping and resilience strategies that are often unacknowledged and undervalued by support systems.

Conclusion

Lived experience expertise was central in this study, creating an innovative methodological approach. To improve public mental health, we must address the everyday, painful structural inequalities experienced by many as commonplace and unfair. New policies and strategies must be found that involve communities, redistributing resources and power, building on a collective knowledge base, to coproduce actions combatting inequalities and improving population mental health.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was peer‐led, designed and carried out by researchers who had experiences of poor mental health. Six authors of the paper worked as peer researchers on this study.
Diet of the critically endangered blackchin guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus revealed using DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Correia Edna , Granadeiro José Pedro , Santos Bárbara , Mata Vanessa A. , Dias Emanuel , Regalla Aissa , Catry Teresa
Published: October 2023

We present the first assessment of the diet of the blackchin guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus (Geoffroy Saint‐Hilaire, 1817) for West Africa using DNA metabarcoding on stomach contents of individuals captured in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea‐Bissau. The diet was dominated by crustaceans, particularly caramote prawn Penaeus kerathurus (frequency of occurrence [FO] = 74%, numerical frequency [NF] = 54%) and fiddler crab Afruca tangeri (FO = 74%, NF = 12%). Bony fishes were present in 30% of the stomachs. We highlight the importance of conservation action for intertidal habitats and their associated benthic invertebrates for the survival of the critically endangered blackchin guitarfish.
Selective photothermolysis in acne treatment: The impact of laser power
Authors: Scopelliti Matteo Giuseppe , Hamidi‐Sakr Amer , Möller Sönke , Karavitis Michael , Kothare Amogh
Published: October 2023

Background

Selective photothermolysis (SPT) using a 1726 nm laser has emerged as a safe and effective treatment option for acne vulgaris by targeting sebaceous glands (SG). Power output plays a crucial role in determining treatment selectivity and efficacy.

Aims

This work highlights the advantages of a higher‐power laser source and outlines the limitations of lower‐power laser sources and the subsequent impact on treatment.

Methods

Light transport and bioheat transfer simulations were performed to demonstrate photothermal impact on the SG and the surrounding dermis when irradiated by a high‐ or lower‐power laser source.

Results

The simulations showed that a single higher‐power‐shorter‐pulse (HPSP) selectively increases SG temperature well beyond bulk temperatures, which is desirable for SPT. Selectivity decreases linearly with power for the single lower‐power‐longer‐pulses (LPLP) exposure. A multiple‐LPLP approach elevates bulk temperatures significantly more than a single‐pulse strategy, compromising selectivity.

Conclusion

The goal of SPT is to damage SG safely and effectively by creating an intense temperature rise localized to the SG while moderately increasing the dermis temperature. This goal is mostly achieved with higher‐power lasers that deliver a single HPSP. Lower‐power lasers, longer pulse widths, and multi‐pulse strategies result in higher bulk temperatures and lower SG selectivity, making such treatment challenging to execute while adding a higher risk of discomfort and downtime.
Understanding the Interplay Between Executive Functions and Reading Development: A Challenge for Researchers and Practitioners Alike
Authors: Yeatman Jason D.
Published: October 2023

In June of 2022, The Dyslexia Foundation (TDF) organized a convening of dyslexia researchers and practitioners around the topic of executive functions. There was consensus on the importance of executive functions for reading development. However, the difficulty of defining, measuring, and training executive functions emerged as a challenge for researchers and practitioners alike. This special issue presents a collection of articles that survey different perspectives, define the current knowledge base, highlight challenges and inconsistencies in research, and chart a path towards a more nuanced understanding of the role of executive functions in reading and dyslexia.
Investigating the min‐cost minimum fleet problem through taxi data analysis
Authors: Nie Wei‐Peng , Cai Shi‐Min , Zhao Zhi‐Dan , Li Ze‐Tao , Zhou Tao , Zhang Yi‐Cheng
Published: October 2023

The optimization of urban traffic efficiency and reduction of pollution through minimizing the number of taxis has become a topic of increasing interest. However, the problem of determining the minimum fleet that considers both time and distance efficiency has received limited attention. Furthermore, little research has been done on how this problem is influenced by factors such as city size and travel demand (i.e., the number of trips). This study extends the minimum fleet problem to the min‐cost minimum fleet problem, and proposes a method to address the problem by constructing a “dispatch network” and finding the minimum weight and minimum path cover of it. A comparative analysis of the method is conducted with the taxi trajectory data of three cities, New York, Chengdu, and Chicago, and the results show a reduction in the off‐load travel time of vehicles compared to the previous method, while maintaining the same fleet size. With the introduction of an emissions model and its combination with our methodology, emissions can also be minimized. Moreover, the relationship between min‐cost minimum fleet and city size and travel demand (number of trips) is studied. Experimental results indicate that fleet size and idle time (distance) vary linearly with the number of trips. Meanwhile, city size also has an essential impact on the algorithm's performance. Furthermore, these results indicate that the min‐cost minimum fleet will help small cities to achieve higher efficiency (smaller fleet and less connection time) than large cities. The acceleration of urbanization is driving changes in the transportation system. Our findings are expected to have significant implications for transport planning, resource conservation, and reducing pollution.
As a permafrost ecosystem warms, plant community traits become more acquisitive
Authors: Spitzer Clydecia M. , Blume‐Werry Gesche
Published: October 2023

This article is a Commentary on Wei et al. (2023), 240: 1802–1816.
Sex‐specific dose–response effects of a 24‐week supervised concurrent exercise intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength in young adults: The ACTIBATE randomized controlled trial
Authors: Camacho‐Cardenosa Alba , Amaro‐Gahete Francisco J. , Martinez‐Tellez Borja , Alcantara Juan M. A. , Ortega Francisco B. , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: October 2023

Concurrent training has been postulated as an appropriate time‐efficient strategy to improve physical fitness, yet whether the exercise‐induced adaptations are similar in men and women is unknown. An unblinded randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate sex‐specific dose–response effects of a 24‐week supervised concurrent exercise training program on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength in young adults. One hundred and forty‐four sedentary adults aged 18–25 years were assigned to either (i) a control group (n = 54), (ii) a moderate intensity exercise group (MOD‐EX, n = 46), or (iii) a vigorous intensity exercise group (VIG‐EX, n = 44) by unrestricted randomization. Cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), hand grip strength, and one‐repetition maximum of leg press and bench press were evaluated at baseline and after the intervention. A total of 102 participants finished the intervention (Control, n = 36; 52% women, MOD‐EX, n = 37; 70% women, and VIG‐EX, n = 36; 72% women). In men, VO2max significantly increased in the MOD‐EX (~8%) compared with the control group and in the VIG‐EX group after the intervention (~6.5%). In women, VO2max increased in the MOD‐EX and VIG‐EX groups (~5.5%) compared with the control group after the intervention. There was a significant increment of leg press in the MOD‐EX (~15.5%) and VIG‐EX (~18%) groups compared with the control group (~1%) in women. A 24‐week supervised concurrent exercise was effective at improving cardiorespiratory fitness and lower body limbs muscular strength in young women—independently of the predetermined intensity—while only at moderate intensity improved cardiorespiratory fitness in men.
Early childhood predictors of early school‐age academic skills and resilience among children living in poverty
Authors: Choe Daniel Ewon , Barreda Santiago , Galán Chardée A. , Gardner Frances , Wilson Melvin N. , Dishion Thomas J. , Shaw Daniel S.
Published: October 2023

This longitudinal study of low‐income families tested neighborhood‐, family‐, and child‐centered promotive factors in early childhood, responses to an early family intervention, and their interactions as predictors of school‐entry levels of and early school‐age gains in academic skills. Using a racially‐diverse, low‐income sample (n = 527) from a randomized controlled trial of the Family Check‐Up (FCU) intervention and Bayesian multilevel regression modeling, we tested whether neighborhood cohesion, positive mother–child engagement, and child self‐regulation in early childhood (ages 2–5 years) and their interactions with FCU group assignment predicted the intercept and slope of academic skills across child age 5, 7.5, and 8.5 years. Higher positive mother–child engagement and child self‐regulation predicted higher academic skills at school entry. An interaction between the FCU intervention and positive mother–child engagement predicted gains in academic skills compared to national norms. The findings suggest the FCU intervention leveraged positive mother–child engagement in early childhood to promote academic skills, offering a potential avenue from which to prevent income achievement gaps before school entry.
Wafer Temperature Control Using Helium Pressure and Observer-Based Model Predictive Control
Authors: Hayashi Daisuke , Takijiri Kotaro , Ueda Takayuki
Published: October 2023

Stabilizing a wafer’s temperature during plasma etching is a critical issue in semiconductor manufacturing. In this study, we propose feedback control of the wafer temperature using the pressure of helium gas (He) that is fed into the gap between the wafer and an electrostatic chuck (ESC) and an algorithm of the model predictive control (MPC) combined with an observer. The temperatures are measured only at the wafer edge zone and the ESC ceramic plate that are accessible during the process. The observer estimates wafer temperatures of center and edge zones and the injected heat power with the help of the measured edge zone temperature. The MPC determines the optimal He pressures based on the estimated temperatures to control both zone temperatures. The algorithm of the feedback control was formulated, and its validity was experimentally confirmed. Results showed that the observer worked well to estimate both zone wafer temperatures and the injected heat power. Results also showed that the temperatures were successfully controlled.
An Analysis of Factors Influencing Ice Management Performance in an Experimental Marine Simulator and Their Application to Decision Support System Design
Authors: Soper Jonathan , Veitch Erik , Thistle Rebecca , Smith Jennifer , Veitch Brian
Published: October 2023

Ice management is essential for maintaining the safety of offshore operations in Arctic regions. We present the combined results of three experiments conducted in a full-mission bridge simulator specially designed for ice management. From a quantitative analysis of the results, we infer the effect of three variables on performance: (1) experience, (2) training, and (3) Decision Support System (DSS). The results confirm that experience and training improve performance for untrained and inexperienced simulator participants. The DSS also improves performance, but with a smaller effect. Qualitative observations using vessel position heat-map diagrams and exit interviews suggested that novice participants using the DSS adopted expert strategies but carried out their tasks more slowly and with less precision. This has important consequences for the design of a future DSS used in training simulators or onboard ships. Potential improvements to the DSS design might include real-time feedback to the user, a redesign of the human–machine interface (HMI), and increasing user input and customization with a human factors focus.
Review of microarc oxidation of titanium implant
Authors: Yang Guang , Meng Yulu , Qian Chenghui , Chen Xiaohong , Liu Ping , Zhou Honglei , Kang Binbin , Tang Xiangpeng , Diao Lanjuan , Zhou Fanfan
Published: October 2023

Titanium and titanium alloys are the most commonly used implant materials, but they are biologically inert. These materials lack rapid osseointegration and resistance to bacterial infections, problems that remain unsolved. The preparation of titanium dioxide coatings by microarc oxidation improves both the biocompatibility of titanium-based materials and their resistance to corrosion during long-term presence in the body. This paper discusses and summarizes the mechanisms of microarc oxidation and some classical models that need to be developed to provide a better understanding and guidance for future research. Subsequently, the effects of electrolyte type, additives, and surface modification of the microarc oxidized coating on the coating morphology were analyzed in detail. In addition, biological applications of microarc oxidation coatings are analyzed, including antimicrobial properties, osseointegration, hydrophilicity, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.
Unified interpretation of MAOS responses via experimentally decomposed material functions
Authors: Shim Yul Hui , Singh Piyush K. , Rogers Simon A.
Published: October 2023

Oscillatory shear testing, used to characterize the viscoelastic response of soft materials, is often divided into small, medium, and large amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS, MAOS, and LAOS) regions. SAOS is a common test that gives us a unified analysis and interpretation of linear viscoelastic behavior, whereas understanding MAOS and LAOS is still an active area of research. While numerous mathematical techniques have been proposed, a consensus interpretation is still missing. Recently, our understanding of nonlinear behavior in the LAOS regime has been developed using iterative recovery tests. Recovery rheology decomposes the strain into two components, allowing an unambiguous interpretation of the nonlinear behavior in terms of sequences of recoverable and unrecoverable processes. In this work, we revisit the MAOS material functions for polyvinyl alcohol-borax hydrogel and worm-like micelles using recovery rheology. We show that two mathematical formalisms, the Chebyshev and sequence of physical processes analyses, provide competing physical interpretations when they are derived from the total strain, but provide unified interpretations when describing the decomposed strains. We, therefore, show that what has often been treated as a mathematical problem can instead be solved experimentally by acknowledging the extra information provided by recovery rheology.
Genetic background of neomycin resistance in clinical
Escherichia coli
isolated from Danish pig farms
Authors: Subramani Prabha , Menichincheri Gaia , Pirolo Mattia , Arcari Gabriele , Kudirkiene Egle , Polani Riccardo , Carattoli Alessandra , Damborg Peter , Guardabassi Luca
Published: October 2023

Neomycin is the first-choice antibiotic for the treatment of porcine enteritis caused by enterotoxigenic
Escherichia coli
. Resistance to this aminoglycoside is on the rise after the increased use of neomycin due to the ban on zinc oxide. We identified the neomycin resistance determinants and plasmid contents in a historical collection of 128 neomycin-resistant clinical
E. coli
isolates from Danish pig farms. All isolates were characterized by whole-genome sequencing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing, followed by conjugation experiments and long-read sequencing of eight selected representative strains. We detected 35 sequence types (STs) with ST100 being the most prevalent lineage (38.3%). Neomycin resistance was associated with two resistance genes, namely
aph(3
′
)-Ia
and
aph(3′)-Ib
, which were identified in 93% and 7% of the isolates, respectively. The
aph(3′)-Ia
was found on different large conjugative plasmids belonging to IncI1α, which was present in 67.2% of the strains, on IncHI1, IncHI2, and IncN, as well as on a multicopy ColRNAI plasmid. All these plasmids except ColRNAI carried genes encoding resistance to other antimicrobials or heavy metals, highlighting the risk of co-selection. The
aph(3′)-Ib
gene occurred on a 19 kb chimeric, mobilizable plasmid that contained elements tracing back its origin to distantly related genera. While
aph(3′)-Ia
was flanked by either Tn
903
or Tn
4352
derivatives, no clear association was observed between
aph(3′)-Ib
and mobile genetic elements. In conclusion, the spread of neomycin resistance in porcine clinical
E. coli
is driven by two resistance determinants located on distinct plasmid scaffolds circulating within a highly diverse population dominated by ST100.

IMPORTANCE

Neomycin is the first-choice antibiotic for the management of
Escherichia coli
enteritis in pigs. This work shows that
aph(3
′
)-Ia
and to a lesser extent
aph(3′)-Ib
are responsible for the spread of neomycin resistance that has been recently observed among pig clinical isolates and elucidates the mechanisms of dissemination of these two resistance determinants. The
aph(3′)-Ia gene
is located on different conjugative plasmid scaffolds and is associated with two distinct transposable elements (Tn
903
and Tn
4352
) that contributed to its spread. The diffusion of
aph(3′)-Ib
is mediated by a small non-conjugative, mobilizable chimeric plasmid that likely derived from distantly related members of the
Pseudomonadota
phylum and was not associated with any detectable mobile genetic element. Although the spread of neomycin resistance is largely attributable to horizontal transfer, both resistance determinants have been acquired by a predominant lineage (ST100) associated with enterotoxigenic
E. coli
, which accounted for approximately one-third of the strains.
Ten tips for developing a more inviting syllabus
Authors: Chandar Shelby , Crum Ryan , Pennino Eric , Ishikawa Cathy , Ghosh Hajra Sayonita , McDonald Kelly
Published: October 2023

In higher education, syllabi have traditionally served as written contracts between instructors and their students, providing first-hand information about the course and expectations. Reading the syllabus may provide students with first impressions or mental images of the instructor, thereby initiating a student-instructor relationship even before any interaction has occurred. Instructors can use syllabi to directly communicate values and practices of equity and inclusion, but students can perceive indirect messages through tone and language that may support or contradict stated values. Here, we share empirically derived recommendations for improving the tone of syllabi with inviting language and stylistic features that promote relationship-building with students.
Use of single-cell technology to improve our understanding of the role of TLR2 in macrophage–
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
interaction
Authors: Gouzy Alexandre
Published: October 2023

The interaction between
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, the agent of tuberculosis (TB), and its host cell, the macrophage, is multifaceted, dynamic, and involves multiple molecular partners. A better understanding of this interaction could help researchers manipulate the immune system in order to design host-targeted immunotherapies and/or develop a novel vaccine protecting better adults against TB. Jani and coworkers studied the role of the macrophage receptor TLR2 in the response to
M. tuberculosis
using single-cell technologies (C. Jani, S. L. Solomon, J. M. Peters, and S. C. Pringle, et al., mSystems,
https://doi.org/10.1128/msystems.00052-23
, 2023). This work addresses the multiple challenges associated with such studies and shows how informative single-cell analysis can be for the study of heterogeneous and complex host-pathogen interactions.
Development and validation of real-time recombinase polymerase amplification-based assays for detecting HPV16 and HPV18 DNA
Authors: Ying Jiaxu , Mao Lingjing , Tang Yujing , Fassatoui Meriem , Song Wei , Xu Xiaosheng , Tang Xiaojian , Li Jing , Liu Hua , Jian Fangfang , Du Qinwen , Wong Gary , Feng Weiwei , Berthet Nicolas
Published: October 2023

Cervical cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the principal cause of cervical cancer, with HPV16 and HPV18 accounting for about 70% of cases worldwide. Cervical screening is an effective secondary measure for preventing cervical cancer. Testing for HPV DNA is becoming increasingly important in cervical cancer screening. The existing PCR-based HPV detection technology has several disadvantages: the assays are time-consuming, and sophisticated equipment is required to control the temperature cycles. These drawbacks have led to the development of detection technologies based on isothermal amplification. Here, we present real-time recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA-exo)-based assays for single genotyping of either the E7 or the L1 segment of HPV16 or HPV18. These assays were highly sensitive, able to detect HPV in all clinical samples with Ct values below 34, and yielded results within 25 min. A dual-detection system capable of detecting both HPV16 and HPV18 in a single reaction was also developed based on the L1 gene. It has a limit of detection of approximately 10,000 copies of each genotype per reaction. The assays were validated with DNA extracted from 36 biopsy specimens and 42 exfoliated cell samples from 43 patients with cervical lesions at different stages. The RPA-exo system is a promising clinical detection platform with the advantages of yielding results rapidly and operating at a constant temperature, while being cost-effective and easy to use.

IMPORTANCE

HPV DNA screening is an effective approach for the prevention of cervical cancer. The novel real-time recombinase polymerase amplification-based HPV detection systems we developed constitute an improvement over the HPV detection methods currently used in clinical practice and should help to extend cervical cancer screening in the future, particularly in point-of-care test settings.
Supplemental Material: A 5000 yr record of coastal uplift and subsidence reveals multiple source faults for past earthquakes on the central Hikurangi margin
Authors: Pizer Charlotte , al. et
Published: October 2023

Includes additional details on core locations and descriptions, microfossil results, radiocarbon results, and age modeling.
Do we understand each other when we develop and implement hip fracture models of care? A systematic review with narrative synthesis
Authors: Armstrong Elizabeth , Harvey Lara A , Payne Narelle L , Zhang Jing , Ye Pengpeng , Harris Ian A , Tian Maoyi , Ivers Rebecca Q
Published: October 2023

Background

A hip fracture in an older person is a devastating injury. It impacts functional mobility, independence and survival. Models of care may provide a means for delivering integrated hip fracture care in less well-resourced settings. The aim of this review was to determine the elements of hip fracture models of care to inform the development of an adaptable model of care for low and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

Multiple databases were searched for papers reporting a hip fracture model of care for any part of the patient pathway from injury to rehabilitation. Results were limited to publications from 2000. Titles, abstracts and full texts were screened based on eligibility criteria. Papers were evaluated with an equity lens against eight conceptual criteria adapted from an existing description of a model of care.

Results

82 papers were included, half of which were published since 2015. Only two papers were from middle-income countries and only two papers were evaluated as reporting all conceptual criteria from the existing description. The most identified criterion was an evidence-informed intervention and the least identified was the inclusion of patient stakeholders.

Conclusion

Interventions described as models of care for hip fracture are unlikely to include previously described conceptual criteria. They are most likely to be orthogeriatric approaches to service delivery, which is a barrier to their implementation in resource-limited settings. In LMICs, the provision of orthogeriatric competencies by other team members is an area for further investigation.
Implementing an advanced physiotherapy outpatient triaging service as a model for improvement for patients recently discharged following surgical intervention for hip fracture
Authors: Ferrier Rebecca , Bell Jack , Sheehan Katie J , Sutton Emma
Published: October 2023

Every year there are 1.3 million hip fractures globally; this is expected to rise to 6 million by 2050. Estimates of global cost is 1.75 million disability adjusted life years, and in established market economies, costs associated with hip fracture represent 1.4% of the total healthcare burden. New models of care will be required to meet this demand. Advance physiotherapy roles in elective arthroplasty across global settings have demonstrated benefit in safely reducing time burden on surgical teams and healthcare costs. The utility of similar roles in the care of hip fracture is unclear. This quality initiative (2020–2023) aimed to implement and evaluate a new model of care substituting a surgical registrar with an advanced physiotherapist in a post-discharge hip fracture clinic. Across many nonlinear, action/reflection cycles, a multi-disciplinary team engaged to operationalize key implementation strategies, mapped to the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) project. Across the reporting period, 346 patients were seen by an advanced physiotherapist. Eighty-one patients seen by an advanced physiotherapist required informal discussion with the consultant surgeon. Fifteen patients required a formal consultant review. There were no patient complaints, critical incidents or other unintended consequences. The net surgical time realized over the three years was 110 hours.
Genetics of Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Eldemire Ramone , Mestroni Luisa , Taylor Matthew R.G.
Published: October 2023

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is defined as dilation and/or reduced function of one or both ventricles and remains a common disease worldwide. An estimated 40% of cases of familial DCM have an identifiable genetic cause. Accordingly, there is a fast-growing interest in the field of molecular genetics as it pertains to DCM. Many gene mutations have been identified that contribute to phenotypically significant cardiomyopathy. DCM genes can affect a variety of cardiomyocyte functions, and particular genes whose function affects the cell–cell junction and cytoskeleton are associated with increased risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Through advancements in next-generation sequencing and cardiac imaging, identification of genetic DCM has improved over the past couple decades, and precision medicine is now at the forefront of treatment for these patients and their families. In addition to standard treatment of heart failure and prevention of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, patients with genetic cardiomyopathy stand to benefit from gene mechanism–specific therapies.
Chemical Composition and Antifungal and Antibiofilm Effects of Vitex pseudo-negundo Essential Oil against Pathogenic Fungal Strains
Authors: Zareshahrabadi Zahra , Saharkhiz Mohammad Jamal , Izadpanah Maryam , Iraji Aida , Emaminia Maryam , Motealeh Maryam , Khodadadi Hossein , Zomorodian Kamiar
Published: October 2023

Background. Vitex pseudo-negundo is a plant of the Lamiaceae family that grows in different parts of the world and the vicinity of seasonal rivers in Iran. Methods. The chemical composition of the Vitex pseudo-negundo essential oils was distilled and evaluated using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The antifungal activity of the essential oils against the fungal strains was analyzed by broth microdilution methods as suggested by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Furthermore, the antibiofilm activity of the Vitex pseudo-negundo essential oils was assessed using the XTT reduction assay. Results. Based on GC/MS analysis, the major components of the Vitex pseudo-negundo essential oils were α‐pinene, α‐terpinyl acetate, limonene, and (E)‐caryophyllene. The growth of tested yeasts was inhibited at concentrations ranging from 2 to 64 μl/mL. Vitex pseudo-negundo fruit essential oil was the most effective in inhibiting yeast growth. Moreover, the essential oils exhibited antifungal activity against filamentous fungi strains. Additionally, the biofilm formation of Candida albicans was inhibited by the leaf, flower, and fruit of the essential oils. Conclusion. Considering the significant antifungal activities of these essential oils, they can be considered a potential source for formulating novel agents to control fungal infections.
Overcoming the Odds: Successful Treatment of Disseminated Mucormycosis with Gastrointestinal and Jaw Involvement in a Patient with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Al-Busaidi Thuraya , Al-Bulushi Fatma , Al-Zadjali Adil , Bakathir Abdulaziz , Balkhair Abdullah , Al Busaidi Ibrahim
Published: October 2023

Disseminated mucormycosis is a rare life-threatening fungal infection that is uniquely seen in severely immunocompromised patients including those with hematological malignancies. We report a case of disseminated mucormycosis with a biopsy-proven gastrointestinal and oral cavity involvement in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia during induction chemotherapy. The patient had a successful outcome with limited resection of the involvement bowel segment, multiple maxillary dental extractions, debridement of the alveolus and hard palate, and combined antifungal therapy. After clinical improvement, stable infection on serial abdominal imaging, and completion of 6 weeks of combined antifungal therapy, consolidation chemotherapy was given, and molecular remission was achieved. The patient remained clinically well on secondary antifungal prophylaxis.
Pathways to Anxiety and Depression in Autistic Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Richdale Amanda L. , Lawson Lauren P. , Chalmers Alexa , Uljarević Mirko , Morris Eric M. J. , Arnold Samuel R. C. , Trollor Julian N.
Published: October 2023

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (autism) commonly experience co-occurring anxiety and depression, which are significantly associated. These mental health conditions are also variously associated with increased autistic traits, insomnia, intolerance of uncertainty (IU), sensory sensitivity, and autonomic symptoms. However, no research has explored the relationships between IU, sensory sensitivity, autonomic symptoms, insomnia, and autistic traits and how they might be associated with anxiety and depression in autism. This study took a transdiagnostic approach to explore the relationships between anxiety, depression, autistic traits, insomnia, IU, sensory sensitivities, and autonomic arousal in 222 autistic people aged 15-80 years (55.7% female) using path analysis. Four plausible, theoretical models were tested, with model 1 providing best fit and explaining 48% of variance in depression, 37% of variance in anxiety, and 29% of variance in insomnia. Autistic traits and IU were directly associated with anxiety and indirectly associated with depression through anxiety. Anxiety, insomnia, IU, and sensory sensitivity were all directly associated with depression; autonomic arousal and sensory sensitivity were also indirectly associated with depression through insomnia. Thus, multiple pathways can lead to anxiety and depression in autism, not only via known paths such as insomnia and IU but additionally via autonomic arousal and sensory sensitivities which are also elevated in autism. These findings suggest that careful clinical evaluation and individualised treatment plans are needed for autistic adults with anxiety or depression. When considering prevention, programs that help autistic adults reduce arousal, maintain good sleep, and reduce IU may prove fruitful.
Analyzing Time Use by Occupation Area between Weekdays and Weekends by Gender of Parents in Single-Parent Families
Authors: Jang Woo-Hyuk , Bang Jin-Hyuk
Published: October 2023

Introduction. Based on the “2019 Living Time Survey” data conducted by the National Statistical Office, this study is aimed at comparing the time usage of single-parent families by classifying the occupation area based on the fourth edition of the occupational therapy practice framework (OTPF) and dividing time use according to weekdays and weekends and by gender. Methods. After extracting the subjects who were selected belonging to a single-parent family from the original data of the “2019 Living Time Survey,” 404 subjects who were single parents were selected, and the data were analysed. The sample consisted of 134 males and 270 females. The time usage by occupation area during weekdays and weekends and according to the gender of the subjects was checked. By using SPSS 25.0 version for data analysis, the general characteristics and time usage of subjects were presented as frequency analysis and technical statistics, and an independent sample

t

-test was conducted to compare time usage on weekdays and weekends. Results. Subjects spent more time on “education” and “work” on weekdays, and on weekends, they spent more time on “activities of daily living,” “rest and sleep,” “leisure,” and “social participation.” After classifying the subjects by gender, men spent more time on “work” on weekdays, and on weekends, they spent more time on “activities of daily living,” “rest and sleep,” “leisure,” and “social participation.” Women spent more time on “education” and “work” on weekdays, and on weekends, they spent more time on “rest and sleep,” “leisure,” and “social participation.” Conclusion. By examining the time usage of single-parent families according to the day of the week, we hope that it will be used as basic data to suggest in which areas they have difficulty managing time, depending on the day of the week, and to establish solutions to insufficient time use due to gender differences.
Exploring equity in social impact assessment
Authors: Parsons Richard ED , Mottee Lara K
Published: October 2023

Social impact assessment as a concept and practice is generally framed as a process for delivering socially equitable outcomes, and in particular, a vehicle for improving the lives of society’s most vulnerable and marginalised people. For example, the International Association for Impact Assessment 2015 guidance document makes the normative statement that projects should benefit local communities and be a ‘force for positive social change and beneficial social development’. Yet most guidance provides little prescription for what this looks like in practice. More recently, the New South Wales 2021 guideline includes distributive equity as a principle for social impact assessment, but its application is yet to be tested. This article discusses key dimensions of equity concepts, drawing on international social impact assessment guidance documents, academic literature on equity, fairness and justice, and case studies in Australia. We elaborate process/procedural/participative and outcome/distributive dimensions of equity. We further argue that, to reflect the International Association for Impact Assessment position, social impact assessment needs to defend its normative purpose of advancing equity, rather than simply ‘considering’ equity impacts.
Reimagining Preparation For Teachers Of Designated English Learners
Authors: Blitz Jennifer Altavilla-Giordano & Emily
Published: October 2023

All elementary, secondary, and special education teachers in Massachusetts seeking initial licensure are required to earn a sheltered English immersion (SEI) endorsement. This endorsement is intended to prepare educators to support designated English learners (ELs) in the content areas. However, the course does not reflect current theories of language development or Massachusetts policies about models of second language education. Jennifer Altavilla-Giordano and Emily Blitz explain how they reimagined the course to accomplish three goals: 1) establish a critical stance to SEI instruction, 2) increase the self-efficacy of pre-service teachers, and 3) inspire advocacy on behalf of designated ELs and families.
Working alongside students, parents, and families
Authors: Lac Van , Mansfield Katherine Cumings , Fernández Érica
Published: October 2023

The question of achieving equity remains an enduring concern for K-12 teachers and school leaders. Work toward equity and social justice in K-12 schools requires the authentic participation and engagement of racially marginalized students and families. Van Lac, Érica Fernández, and Katherine Cumings Mansfield offer real-life examples of what it looks like to foster student and parent leadership with/alongside teachers and school leaders. They contend that the goals of social justice cannot fully be achieved without the active participation of those most marginalized in K-12 schools.
Mind-Wandering and Its Relationship With Psychological Wellbeing and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptomatology in the Context of Covid-19
Authors: Gaynor Niamh , Fitzgerald Lisa
Published: October 2023

Mind-wandering (MW) as a research topic has received considerable attention over the last several decades. The recent differentiation between spontaneous and deliberate MW has suggested a particular effect of the former on psychopathology; in that increased spontaneous MW may precede mental illness. The present study sought to explore MW as a potential contributing factor to poor mental health in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. More specifically, we sought to determine firstly, whether the effects of MW frequency, type and content on subjective psychological wellbeing was consistent with previous findings after controlling for the impacts of Covid-related stress. Secondly, previous research has demonstrated an effect of both Covid-stress and spontaneous MW on the experience of obsessive-compulsive symptomatology (OCS), and so the present study explored this relationship further by assessing whether Covid-stress mediated the relationship between spontaneous MW and OCS. Participants completed measures of MW, OCS and psychological wellbeing through an online questionnaire. The results indicated that increased spontaneous MW was indicative of both poorer subjective psychological wellbeing and OCS, with Covid-stress partially mediating the relationship between spontaneous MW and OCS. Our findings provide further support for the adverse effect of unintentional MW on psychological wellbeing, as well as for the differentiation between both forms of the cognitive phenomenon. Additionally, they provide an important insight into one of the factors that may have preceded poor mental health among the Irish population during Covid-19. Future research may build upon the present study by exploring similar relationships among clinical populations.
Relevance of the Internal Jugular Vein for Surgery in the Upper Parapharyngeal Space
Authors: Li Lifeng , Li Pingdong , London Nyall R. , Xu Hongbo , Chen Xiaohong , Carrau Ricardo L.
Published: October 2023

Objective: Tumors arising from the upper parapharyngeal space (UPPS) may have intimate relationships with the internal carotid artery (ICA) and the internal jugular vein (IJV). The significance of the ICA in UPPS has been sufficiently articulated, whereas the relevance of the IJV has not been addressed. This study aimed to assess the anatomical variations of the IJV within the UPPS, and to explore its implications for surgical procedures. Methods: An endoscopic dissection of the IJV was performed on 10 cadaveric specimens. In addition, 30 patients who underwent transoral or transcervical resection of UPPS tumors were retrospectively reviewed to characterize the IJV and its relation to the tumor. Results: On the cadaveric specimens, the IJV was located at the posteromedial and posterolateral aspects of the styloid process in 13 (65%) and 7 (35%) sides, respectively. In our clinical series, the IJV was not encountered in 18 patients with pre-styloid tumors. In 12 patients harboring retro-styloid tumors, the IJV was partially (n = 5) or completely (n = 7) compressed and was displaced into the posterolateral aspect of the tumor. The IJV was injured intraoperatively in 1 patient, requiring an immediate conversion to an open transcervical corridor that allowed its exposure and ligation without difficulty. Conclusion: This study characterizes the IJV and its relationship with adjacent neurovascular structures in the UPPS, which may provide further safeguards during transoral and transcervical procedures in the UPPS.
Imagined publics – On the structural transformation of higher education and science. A post-Habermas perspective
Authors: Krücken Georg
Published: October 2023

Referring to Habermas’ groundbreaking book ‘The structural transformation of the public sphere’, the article discusses contemporary transformations of higher education and science. In order to do so, in a first step a post-Habermas perspective will be developed, which implies two changes to the theoretical foundations guiding Habermas’ analysis: On the one hand, we are in the midst of a social transformation that has led to a pluralization of the understandings of the public – that is, publics. The representation of society in society no longer finds a homogeneous form; it takes place only within the framework of different partial publics. These publics gain importance for different types of organizations (companies, public administrations, NGOs, etc.). This is where the second change to Habermas’ concept comes in because, on the other hand, from the perspective taken in this paper, such publics are constructs of the organizations themselves, that is, imagined publics. The fruitfulness of such a post-Habermas perspective on the public sphere will be illustrated by focusing on higher education and science. Universities as the organizational embodiment of higher education and science, not only represent a discursive space in the public sphere, but they are also increasingly transformed into strategically acting organizations that imagine and actively shape the publics that are relevant to them. Four examples will be used to present empirical observations that emerge from the theoretical perspective proposed here. These examples, however, require more in-depth investigations and only serve as illustrations for a new research agenda on ‘imagined publics’. In the end of this contribution, it is asked how far-reaching the discussed change processes towards universities as strategic organizations are, and what consequences result concerning a discursive and communicative understanding of universities.
Assessment of Lower Third Molar Eruption Status in Different Facial Growth Patterns in Adults
Authors: Kaur Kiranjeet , Jaiswal Ajit , Shivani  , Singh Jaskaran
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Various skeletal and dental factors help in predicting the mandibular third molar eruption, but the reliability of these factors may vary within subjects with different growth patterns. Thus, the present study aims to analyze these parameters for the lower third molar eruption in subjects with different facial growth patterns.

Material and Methods

The study was conducted on 120 pre-treatment lateral cephalograms and orthopantomograms of the subjects who were equally divided (based on the SN-GoGn angle) into three groups: normodivergent, hypodivergent, and hyperdivergent. The groups were further subdivided into impacted and erupted subgroups based on mandibular third molar eruption status. Nine radiographic parameters were compared between the impacted and erupted subgroups, using the independent Student’s t-test, to check their association with mandibular third molar eruption in different growth patterns.

Results

Beta angle was significantly different in the erupted and impacted subgroups in all three groups (with p <.05). The retromolar space and alpha angle was significant in hypodivergent group (p <.01) and the gamma angle was significant in the hyperdivergent group (p <.01).

Conclusion

Among all the parameters that were analyzed for the third molar eruption, only the beta angle was significantly related to the third molar eruption in subjects with all three different growth patterns.
Fiscal geographies between the crisis and the pandemic
Authors: Tapp Renee , Kay Kelly
Published: October 2023

This paper serves as an introduction to the themed issue on “Post-Crisis Fiscal Geographies.” In it, we review the growing body of work on fiscal policy and geography, with particular emphasis on taxation and tax policy. We argue that geographers and other scholars of political economy should pay greater attention to the state’s active capacities, particularly during the long troughs between the crises which tend to receive the bulk of scholarly and popular attention. We situate the three papers that comprise the special issue within the broader literature, closing by suggesting the need to broaden fiscal geographies scholarship beyond tax, as well as raising the possibilities for justice that could arise from closer engagement with fiscal policy.