bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National Policies on Parental Leave and Breastfeeding Breaks: Racial, Ethnic, Gender, and Age Disparities in Access and Implications for Infant and Child Health
Authors: Sprague Aleta , Earle Alison , Moreno Gonzalo , Raub Amy , Waisath Willetta , Heymann Jody
Published: February 2023

Objective:

Parental leave and breastfeeding breaks influence the ability to initiate and continue breastfeeding. We investigated how eligibility criteria in the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Affordable Care Act (ACA) affect access to unpaid parental leave and breastfeeding breaks and assessed affordability and alternative policy models.

Methods:

We used family income data to assess the affordability of unpaid leave by race and ethnicity. We used 2017-2018 US Current Population Survey data to determine the percentage of private sector workers aged 18-44 years who met the minimum hour (1250 hours of work during a 12-month period), tenure (12 months), and firm size (≥50 employees) requirements of FMLA and ACA. We analyzed eligibility by gender, race and ethnicity, and age. We also examined parental leave and breastfeeding break policies in 193 countries.

Results:

Most Latinx (66.9%), Black (60.2%), and White (55.3%) workers were ineligible and/or unlikely to be able to afford to take unpaid FMLA leave. Of 69 534 workers, more women (16.9%) than men (10.3%) did not meet the minimum hour requirement. Minimum tenure excluded 23.7% of all workers and 42.2% of women aged 18-24 years. Minimum firm size excluded 30.3% of all workers and 37.7% of Latinx workers. Of 27 520 women, 28.8% (including 32.9% of Latina women) were excluded from ACA breastfeeding breaks because of firm size. Nearly all other countries guaranteed mothers paid leave regardless of firm size or minimum hours and guaranteed ≥6 months of paid leave or breastfeeding breaks.

Conclusions:

Adopting a comprehensive, inclusive paid parental leave policy and closing gaps in breastfeeding break legislation would remove work-related barriers to breastfeeding; reduce racial, ethnic, and gender inequities; and align US national policies with global norms.
Weight, Wealth, and Inequality: Nineteenth Century Current Net Nutrition by Race During US Economic Development
Authors: Carson Scott Alan
Published: February 2023

When other economic measurements are scarce or unreliable, height and the body mass index (BMI) are now well accepted measures for cumulative and current net nutrition. However, as the ratio of weight to height, BMI is the ratio of current to cumulative net nutrition, therefore, does not fully isolate changes in current net nutrition. This study uses weight after controlling for height as a measure for current net nutrition and shows that US Black and White weights decreased throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, were higher in the South, and for farmers and unskilled workers. Like stature and BMI, nineteenth century weight was higher in states with greater average wealth and population density and lower in states with greater wealth inequality.
Color discrimination threshold of human vision for textiles under different illumination conditions
Authors: Chae Youngjoo , Moon Sungwoo
Published: February 2023

In this work, the varying color discrimination thresholds of human vision for textiles with a wide range of physical color attributes under different illumination conditions were examined. It was found that, regardless of the illumination condition and the color attributes of the textiles, people cannot generally perceive the color differences of textiles smaller than 4.25 Δ E*ab. Meanwhile, the color discrimination threshold was found to be significantly affected by the illuminance of illuminants and all the physical color attributes of lightness, chroma, and hue of the textiles observed. People were generally better able to distinguish color differences in bright environments with the illuminance of 2000 lux than in darker ones with 100 lux. In addition, color differences between dark and less-saturated textiles were found to be generally easier to be perceived than those between light and saturated textiles under various illuminants. In addition, regardless of the illuminant, color differences between neutral colored textiles were easier to be perceived than those between chromatic colored textiles with the mean color discrimination threshold of 2.85 and 4.42 Δ E*ab, respectively. In particular, among chromatic colored textiles, color differences between yellow textiles were generally the hardest to be perceived with the mean threshold of 5.58 Δ E*ab.
Morphological and immunological markers of repeated heart remodeling after surgical reconstruction of the left ventricle in ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Shipulin Vladimir M , Andreev Sergey L , Belyaeva Sofia A , Pryakhin Andrey S , Sukhodolo Irina V , Chumakova Svetlana P
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Effective treatment of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) is one of the most challenging issues in modern cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the state of cardiomyocytes and myocardial extracellular matrix, as well as to identify informative markers of an unfavorable prognosis for surgical treatment of ICM.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgical treatment of ICM between 2011 and 2018 at a single center. Patients were divided into groups depending on the presence of repeated left ventricle (LV) remodeling in one-year follow-up after surgical reconstruction of the LV in ICM patients.

Results

A total of 45 patients with ICM were reviewed. The mean age of the patients was 57.9 ± 7.8 years. According to the results of the study, the area of cardiomyocyte nuclei differed statistically significantly among the regions with varying degrees of impaired local contractility ( p = 0.042). According to the results of the pairwise comparison in dyskinetic areas of the myocardium, the area of cardiomyocyte nuclei was higher than in normokinetic areas ( p = 0.042). A moderate positive correlation was found between the LV ejection fraction measured in one-year follow-up period after surgery and the number of CD163-positive cells ( p = 0.012).

Conclusion

In the myocardium of patients with LV reverse remodeling in the long-term postoperative period, perivascular fibrosis occurs more frequently than in patients with progressive LV remodeling. The number of M2-anti-inflammatory macrophages prevails in the myocardium of the patients with reverse remodeling compared with patients with progressive remodeling.
Book Review: Ritajyoti Bandyopadhyay, Paula Banerjee & Ranabir Samaddar (Eds), India’s Migrant Workers and the Pandemic
Authors: Narayana Sharmila , Chaly Nia Susan
Published: February 2023

Ritajyoti Bandyopadhyay, Paula Banerjee & Ranabir Samaddar (Eds), India’s Migrant Workers and the Pandemic (New York: Routledge, 2022), viii + 285 pp.
Visual and cognitive profiles in children with and without cerebral visual impairment
Authors: Zihl Josef , Unterberger Lydia , Lippenberger Myriam
Published: February 2023

Reliable differentiation of visual-perceptual difficulties in children with and without cerebral visual impairment (CVI) can often pose a diagnostic challenge. We, therefore, assessed the visual-perceptual profile in 94 children with and 77 children without suspected CVI between the ages of 8 and 17 years in a non-clinical setting, using a screening questionnaire and standardized visual-perceptual tests. Children with suspected CVI reported more frequently greater visual difficulties, had lower visual acuity, and were significantly impaired in visual search tests, in visual form and object perception, in visual space perception, and in visual text processing. There were no significant differences between groups in stereopsis, fixation stability, motility, horizontal saccadic eye movements, and convergence and accommodation. Cognitive performance in auditory attention and verbal short-term and working memory was similar in both groups. Our results indicate that the use of an appropriate questionnaire and specific visual-perceptual tests enables valid diagnostic detection of CVI. The additional use of cognitive tests also allows differentiation between primary and secondary impairments in visual perception.
Functional and Structural Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair With or Without Preoperative Corticosteroid Injections
Authors: Feng Sijia , Li Huizhu , Zhong Yuting , Xie Yuxue , Chen Jun , Chen Yuzhou , Chen Shiyi
Published: February 2023

Background:

Corticosteroid injections (CSIs) are effective in alleviating pain in patients with rotator cuff tears, but controversy still exists regarding their potential adverse effects on clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair.

Purpose:

To compare both the functional and the structural outcomes in patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with or without preoperative CSIs.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was carried out among patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for partial- and full-thickness tears between 2015 and 2019. The patients who received preoperative CSIs were included in the CSI group and compared with a group without preoperative CSIs (non-CSI group), matched at a ratio of 1:2 based on tear size, age, and follow-up time. Both functional evaluation and structural assessments using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed at the final follow-up. Clinical outcomes—including retear rate as the primary outcome; pain; functional scores including the Constant-Murley score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score, and Fudan University Shoulder Score; range of motion (ROM); tendon integrity; tendon healing type; and cartilage thickness—were compared between the 2 groups with a statistical significance of P < .05 and power of 0.9.

Results:

Thirty-one patients were included in the CSI group, and 62 were included in the non-CSI group. After a mean 3-year follow-up, the 2 groups demonstrated no significant differences in retear rate; visual analog scale for pain; shoulder functional scores; and active ROM including forward flexion, abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation. No significant differences were observed on postoperative MRI scans of the rotator cuff tendon (tendon integrity, healing type, residual tendon attachment area, etc), cartilage thickness, and muscle atrophy.

Conclusion:

No significant differences were found at a mean 3-year follow-up in the retear rates, pain, ROM, and glenohumeral structure on postoperative MRI scans after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with or without preoperative CSIs.
Impact of Tweens’ (Ages 8–12) Leadership Experience Over Other Children as Children Shepherds in House Church Ministries on Their Self-Concept Development as They Build Up the Body of Christ
Authors: Min Christi Park
Published: February 2023

This qualitative study is designed to explore how tween (ages 8–12) children shepherds in house church ministry develop their positive self-concept, through their helping leadership experience over other children. The purpose of the current study is articulated in the following three research questions: (a)What is the influence on self-concept development? (b) What environment/relational factors impact self-concept? (c) What is the influence of systematic support on tweens’ leadership experience? A total of 30 children shepherds participated in in-depth interviews ( n = 30); 27 children shepherds’ parents participated in the short surveys ( n = 27): seven ministers/volunteers participated in unstructured interviews ( n = 7) from five different local churches with the house church ministry in Texas and California. There are seven emerging themes implicating that children shepherds in the tween period could develop their positive self-concept along with the development of sociability, pro-sociality, and proactivity. Children shepherds’ holistic self-concept development is brought up by the social-emotional and programmatically practical support from church ministry. At the same time, this development can potentially influence their successful social adjustment in the faith community so that they can contribute to building up the body of Christ as members of the church in return. Furthermore, these findings extend their implications to examine the possibility of building up a novel model for the new era of children's ministry— Ministry by Children as children lead the ministry with their active participation and holistic dedication to their faith community.
Ambivalence in Adolescents’ Alcohol Expectancies: A Longitudinal Mixed Methods Study Among 12-to-18-Year-Olds
Authors: Scheffels Janne , Brunborg Geir Scott , Bilgrei Ola Røed , Tokle Rikke , Burdzovic Andreas Jasmina , Buvik Kristin
Published: February 2023

Drawing on the framework of alcohol expectancies and their importance for drinking behaviors, this longitudinal mixed-methods study examined changes and continuities in the development of alcohol expectancies during adolescence. Quantitative and qualitative data were prospectively collected at four time points between 2015 and 2020 from nationwide, socio-economic, and gender-balanced samples of Norwegian adolescents aged 12–18. Quantitative data ( n = 3425) were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models, and qualitative data ( nT1 = 118) using thematic analysis. Quantitative and qualitative results were juxtaposed in the discussion. Quantitative results indicated an increase in social facilitation and tension reduction expectancies from age 13 to 18, and a simultaneous decrease in negative emotional expectancies. This development could partly be explained by experience with alcohol use in adolescence. Similarly, qualitative findings showed adolescents’ expectancies of alcohol evolving with age, from one-sided negative expectancies of aggression and harm to increased positive expectancies of fun, sociability, and relaxation. Both analyses showed that negative expectances remained high throughout the study period, but by late adolescence, many participants held positive and negative expectations simultaneously. The qualitative data illustrated how adolescents’ alcohol expectancies became increasingly ambivalent and complex with age, as alcohol use became more common. Prevention strategies aiming to reduce underage alcohol use should acknowledge this complexity.
The Relationship between Nursing Leadership and Patient Readmission Rate: A Systematic Review
Authors: Al Sabei Sulaiman Dawood , Ross Amy M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Nurse leaders play a fundamental role in improving patient quality care delivery, thus improving patient clinical outcomes.

Purpose

This systematic review examined the knowledge to date of nursing leadership on reducing patient readmission rates.

Methods

A literature review was conducted using seven electronic databases: Medline Ovid, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) Plus, Emerald, PsycINFO, ABI/INFORM collection, and EBSCO, with the addition of references for relevant papers reviewed.

Findings

The search resulted in a total of 15 articles. Findings revealed that leadership practices of nurses have an impact on reducing patient readmission rates.

Conclusions

The results suggest a need for further rigorous studies investigating the mechanism of how nursing leadership relates to patient readmission rates and how to translate this into practice across diverse cultures.
Goldin’s Last Chapter on the Gender Pay Gap: An Exploratory Analysis Using Italian Data
Authors: Destefanis Sergio , Mazzotta Fernanda , Parisi Lavinia
Published: February 2023

This article explores the application to Italy of Goldin’s hypothesis that the unexplained gender pay gap is crucially linked to firms’ incentive to disproportionately reward individuals who work long and particular hours. The study draws mainly on Italian responses to the 2014 European Structure of Earnings Survey for data on earnings and the individual characteristics of employees and their employer, but also uses data from the Occupational Information Network and the Italian Sample Survey on Professions to measure characteristics reflecting the work context within occupations. For graduate and non-graduate workers, the results reveal a positive relationship between various measures of the unexplained gender pay gap and the elasticity of earnings with respect to work hours. For graduate workers, in accordance with Goldin’s hypothesis, both these variables are correlated with the occupational characteristics that impose earnings penalties on workers seeking more workplace flexibility.
Framing Unions and Nurses
Authors: Cake Susan
Published: February 2023

Union communication and framing are important for how union members, as well as how unions as organizations, are represented. In the context of declining union density and therefore fewer direct union members, unions’ daily communication material on social media may be one of the most common interactions people have with unions. This case study focuses on United Nurses of Alberta, the union for most registered nurses in Alberta, Canada, where unionization rates are among the lowest in Canada. This case study shows how United Nurses of Alberta uses two collective action frames, nurses-as-distinct and nurses-as-advocates, in their daily communication to members and the public. In creating and promoting these frames, United Nurses of Alberta draws from and pushes against the industrial relations framework under which they operate and the historical narrative of nurses as caring and self-sacrificing, which may reinforce common understandings of nursing and also limit United Nurses of Alberta’s ability to represent their members.
Experimental and simulation analysis of erosion law of crude gas production channel in underground coal gasification production wellhead
Authors: Tang Yang , Wang Jie , Jing Xin , Li Guangyao , Zhou Minghai , Xiao Xiao
Published: February 2023

In underground coal gasification, crude gas carrying coal ash and cinder has a serious significant erosion effect on the gas extraction area of a wellhead device. To study the erosion of the wellhead device, based on the gas-solid two-phase flow theory, this study uses the discrete phase model to describe the kinematics and trajectories of discrete solid particles and uses the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equation to calculate the fluid dynamics of the continuous phase. This study determines the main erosion position and the maximum erosion angle range of the wellhead device through numerical analysis, as well as the influence of the changes in solid particle size, particle mass flow rate, and crude gas flow rate on the erosion rate, and predicts the service lifetime of the small four-way and side valve I. The gas-solid erosion experiment verified the maximum erosion angle of the wellhead device. The experimental results were consistent with the numerical analysis results. This study also proposes an optimization method of surfacing to reduce the erosion of gas-solid two-phase flow on wellhead devices. The results show that the inner walls of the small four-way and side valve I are the most eroded. Factors such as particle size, particle mass flow rate, and crude gas flow rate have a greater impact on the erosion rate of the device, and the particle size has the greatest impact. Surfacing the severely eroded area of the wellhead device can effectively reduce the erosion and wear of the wellhead device caused by the gas-solid two-phase flow. This study provides guidance for the reasonable prediction and effective protection of severe erosion areas of wellhead devices.
'Ici et par toute la terre': Paris, British universities and the French study abroad in the inter-war
Authors: Michallat Wendy
Published: February 2023

This article begins with the recommendations of the Leathes Report of 1916 in connection with the internationalisation of language study and the reasons why the ideal of transnational mobility was slow to take root in language departments in the UK. It examines how the provision of safe, secure and affordable accommodation for women students was an effective counter to alarmist stay-at-home tales. And it looks at how feminist educators campaigned to promote international learning and teaching opportunities for women scholars. It argues that the Leathes concept of an ‘immersion’ experience conflicted with the University of Paris's interpretation of the ‘internationalisation’ of study. The Cité universitaire (CU) project, launched in the 1920s, offered the possibility for the easy placement of a growing number of students from the British red-brick universities in particular. But the conviction of British academics that the proposed Collège Franco-Britannique should house both French and British students was at odds with the University of Paris's concept of a campus of representative national houses in which only students of that country were permitted to live. It concludes that the mobilisation of the profession into subject bodies was a key factor in the evolution of study abroad programs and more broadly in the consolidation of ‘modern studies’ in the new civic and red-brick universities across Britain.
Financial Accessibility and Economic Growth: An Assessment of Indian Economy
Authors: Dey Manisha , Kar Mili , Mishra Sasmita
Published: February 2023

Financial inclusion is increasingly being recognized as one of the decisive factors towards economic growth and an important tool to address the issue of equitable growth and helpful in minimizing the problem of poverty. This study is an attempt to examine financial inclusion dimensions of the Indian banking sector in terms of penetration, accessibility and usage, and their impact on economic growth. VAR model is applied to measure the linkage of various financial inclusion dimensions with GDP per capita. The study also conducts causality analysis to examine the finance growth linkage in association with financial accessibility and economic growth. The time taken for the study is 2006 to 2019. Granger causality test found that all the explanatory carried unidirectional relation with GDP and none of the parameter demonstrated bidirectional relation with GDP. The existence of unidirectional relation between numbers of deposits accounts for GDP is found at a 10% significance level.
Impact of Financial Literacy and Peer Influence on Financial Behavior of the Members of the Self-help Groups: A PLS SEM-Based Study
Authors: Malhotra Nishi , Kumar Baag Pankaj
Published: February 2023

UN has adopted poverty reduction and women empowerment as one of the sustainable development goals. Financial literacy is emerging as an essential tool to achieve financial inclusion through microfinance. Particularly with the advent of a pandemic such as COVID-19, the use of technology has increased manifold. Thus, the importance of financial literacy to ensure the sustainability of self-help groups has grown tremendously. There is a shortage of literature that measures the impact of financial literacy on the financial behavior of the members of self-help groups in India. Moreover, research establishes that rote financial education leads to dormant knowledge with financial outcomes. Through the lens of Theory of Planned Behavior, the study demonstrates the mediating role of financial attitude and financial efficacy in explaining the relationship between financial knowledge and financial behavior. Peer influence leads to financial knowledge and behavior. But financial attitude is developed only through financial knowledge. Also, financial attitude enhances the impact of financial knowledge and peer influence on financial behavior. This study uses the partial least square structural equation modeling method for the data analysis, and the results establish that financial knowledge and attitude positively impact behavior. Financial attitude and efficacy mediate the relationship between financial knowledge and financial behavior. Thus, an individual’s emotional disposition should be considered while designing social intermediation initiatives. Also, social learning through peer influence can be extremely helpful in promoting sound financial habits.
Perk or Peril? Making Sense of Member Differences When Interorganizational Collaboration Begins
Authors: Nathues Ellen , Endedijk Maaike D. , van Vuuren Mark
Published: February 2023

Team member differences can be found in various characteristics and be seen as both perks and perils. But what makes one group focus on certain dimensions and differences’ positive implications, while another collective notices other aspects and sees trouble ahead? We address this question in the context of interorganizational teams’ first stages, when impressions are limited and valuations must be made promptly. Our findings from in-depth interviews offer a sensemaking perspective on perceived otherness and explicate when and why differences are interpreted as helping or hindering collaborative practices. Moreover, we illuminate how coorientation and representation dynamics shape otherness perceptions and valuations.
Raids at Work: Latinx Immigrant Labor Precarity and the Spectacle of ICE Worksite Enforcement Raids
Authors: Corral Álvaro José
Published: February 2023

Why does Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conduct worksite raids when employers are rarely ever charged with hiring undocumented immigrant workers? This article shows how exploitative labor conditions and ICE worksite enforcement raids exist in a mutually reinforcing feedback loop that (re)produces precarity for undocumented workers. Analysis of interviews from the Immigrant Workers Project (IWP) Survey of 2018, a community-based participatory action research project in Northeast Ohio, reveals that individuals directly and indirectly impacted by ICE worksite raids understand and experience these operations within the broader context of anti-immigrant labor discrimination and worker exploitation. Although previous scholarship has theorized the role of “spectacle” in various aspects of immigration enforcement a critical analysis of media coverage, public records, and government documents shows how government agencies and the media choreograph worksite raids for maximum public spectacle. The underlying logics of this immigration enforcement tactic highlight how undocumented immigrant workers exist simultaneously as individuals whose labor is deregulated but whose presence is hyper-regulated.
Spreadsheets, Software, Storytelling, Visualization, Lifelong Learning: Essential Data Skills for Journalism and Strategic Communication Students
Authors: Bobkowski Piotr S. , Etheridge Christopher E.
Published: February 2023

To facilitate greater integration of statistical reasoning and data instruction in journalism and mass communication (JMC) college curricula, this research note advocates designing collective instruction for journalism and strategic communication students organized around the data literacy construct. It introduces a Data Project Lifecycle model that maps statistics, data, and computational skills discussed across the literature, and which can be used in instructional design. Input from 24 journalism and strategic communication practitioners with data experience identifies essential data skills for JMC graduates: spreadsheet wherewithal, fluency in industry-standard software, ability to tell compelling stories with data, visualization, and self-directed learning.
Contested Certainty and Credibility: The Effect of Personal Stories and Scientific Evidence in User Comments on News Story Evaluation and Relevance
Authors: Hinnant Amanda , Hu Sisi , Hong Yoorim , Young Rachel
Published: February 2023

This study examined how user comments influence perceptions of a less-controversial news story. The results of a 2 (argument direction: supporting vs. dissenting comments) × 2 (evidence type: anecdotal vs. scientific evidence referenced in comments) between-subjects factorial design experiment with a no-comments control group ( N = 426) showed that comments have independent effects on the evaluation of medical science news stories on perceived relevance, uncertainty, and risk perception. Also, the types of comments interact with participants’ intellectual humility and subjective numeracy. The findings illustrate that comments may have a deleterious impact on audience perception of journalistic stories and scientific issues.
Communication and Perspectives About COVID-19 and Vaccinations Among Native Americans
Authors: Ellenwood Rachel , Boyd Amanda D. , Higheagle Strong Zoe
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected Native American people and communities across the United States. Despite unequal losses during the pandemic, Native Americans have high vaccination rates. We provide insight into perspectives of COVID-19 and vaccinations through in-depth interviews with Native Americans. Through this research, we provide a holistic view of how Native Americans perceive vaccines by pairing Indigenous perspectives of risk and the Health Belief Model. We discuss the importance of tribal sovereignty in developing health communication strategies, and the need for messaging that is trusted and culturally appropriate.
Basic concepts of cancer genetics and receptor tyrosine kinase inhibition for pharmacists. A narrative review
Authors: Orrico Kathleen B.
Published: February 2023

The intent of this review is to present basic genetic concepts key to understanding oncogenesis and the role receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibition plays in the targeted treatment of many cancer types. Oncogenic signaling by RTKs can result from genetic events such as point mutations, chromosomal rearrangements, structural variation, and gene amplification in the cancer genome. The cancer pharmacogenes discussed encode RTKs that exemplify the link between gene variation, the oncogenic process, and the basis of targeted approaches to treatment. Biochemical pathways often involved in oncogenesis and affected by RTK variation are reviewed. Molecular diagnostic testing for the presence of specific gene variants, alterations, and amplifications direct therapy to indicated tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monoclonal antibody drugs. As pharmacists are integral to the selection, preparation, and monitoring of chemotherapy, it is important that they understand the genetic basis for targeted therapies as well as the underlying disease process.
Derivation of an elastic shell model of order hn as n tends to infinity
Authors: Bîrsan Mircea
Published: February 2023

Starting from three-dimensional linear elasticity and performing the dimensional reduction by integration over the thickness, we derive a general form of the areal strain energy density for elastic shells. To obtain the new constitutive model, we do not approximate the deformation fields as polynomials in the thickness coordinate, but rather we keep all terms in the thickness-wise series expansions. As a result, we deduce the explicit form of the shell strain energy density in which the constitutive coefficients are expressed as integrals depending on the thickness h and on the initial curvature. Then, to obtain the shell model of order [Formula: see text], we expand the integral coefficients in the strain energy function as power series of h and truncate them to the power [Formula: see text]. In the case [Formula: see text], we recover the classical strain energy density for combined bending and stretching of linear shells, which leads to the Koiter model. Finally, we prove that the proposed shell strain energy function is coercive for any [Formula: see text], as well as for the general case [Formula: see text].
Practice of immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS): A teaching hospital experience in United Kingdom
Authors: Wang Haoyu , Ramjiani Vipul , Auger Graham , Raynor Mathew , Currie Zanna , Tan Jennifer
Published: February 2023

Background / Objectives

Utilisation of ISBCS has been encouraged since COVID-19 in line with the RCOphth recommendations. This study aims to share experience from a UK teaching hospital on ISBCS and to evaluate pre-, intra- and post-operative outcomes from the ISBCS cohort.

Methods

Of 3402 cataract surgeries performed between July 2020 and July 2021 (1 year since the reopening of the cataract service from COVID-19), 208 eyes of 104 patients (6.1%) undergoing ISBCS were retrospectively studied on their demographics, biometry, surgeon grades, and pre-, intra- and post-operative data.

Results

The mean age was 74.5 ± 9.4 years and 62% were female. Eighty-nine percent of the eyes were performed under local anaesthesia and 70% were ‘routine’ cases. Other risk factors included: short eyes requiring pre-operative mannitol infusion (10%), high myopia (8%), poor dilation (2%) and a ‘glaucoma’ cohort [angle closure (2%) and prior trabeculectomy (1%)]. Three eyes (1%) had complications intra-operatively in second eye (1 case each: posterior capsule rupture, corneal oedema and zonular dehiscence). Two patients (1%) had complications in the first eye (1 case each: suprachoroidal haemorrhage, conjunctival & iris haemorrhage), hence had their second eye postponed. Twelve months post-operatively, 20 eyes (10%) had recorded post-op complications with cystoid macular oedema being the commonest (4.5%) and no endophthalmitis. Eighty-six percent were discharged with satisfaction. No significant differences were found in pre-operative features, complication rates and post-operative outcomes between consultant and non-consultant surgeons (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our experience which included a cohort of high-risk patients showed safe and successful practice of ISBCS without having a negative impact on training.
Stress and cataract surgery: A nationwide study evaluating surgeon burnout
Authors: Ansari Abdus Samad , Tung Annie See Wah , Wright David M , Watts Patrick , Williams Gwyn Samuel
Published: February 2023

Background

We aimed to evaluate the nationwide prevalence of stress induced burnout among cataract surgeons. We believe that knowledge of these factors can help formulate a solution to this underreported problem.

Methods

A three-part nationwide cross-sectional survey was disseminated with via the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) in the United Kingdom(UK). All consultants, trainees and specialty doctors and associate specialists(SAS) were invited to participate. We evaluated burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Logistic regression modelling was completed to look at factors linked to high level burnout in certain domains.

Results

A total of 406 respondents completed our survey. Prevalence of cataract surgery-related high burnout was estimated at 3.45% (Section A and/or B) and 40% within Personal Accomplishment (PA)(Section C of the MBI). Multiple factors were associated with increased burnout within PA: Increasing age: 61+ OR: 2.99 (1.02–8.78, p =  0.05), Number of cataract operations completed: >3000 OR 2.98 (1.03–8.64, p =  0.04), Lists per week: 2: OR 2.99 (1.38–6.47, p <  0.01), 2.5: OR 8.95 (2.58–31.02, p <  0.01), 3 or more: OR 2.64 (1.07–6.54, p =  0.04). Sleeping 8 h or more was found to be protective OR 0.52 (0.28–0.96, p =  0.04). 17% of respondents indicated they would be willing to give up cataract surgery if given the opportunity.

Conclusion

The prevalence of stress induced burnout by cataract surgery appears to be present in a minority of surgeons. There appears to be a significant reduction in the feeling of personal achievement within the profession. A large proportion of this cohort appears to be willing to give up surgical responsibilities.
Adult offspring and their socioeconomic resources for development and survival of stroke: A Swedish and Danish nationwide register-based study
Authors: Jørgensen Terese S.H. , Osler Merete , Fors Stefan , Nilsson Charlotte J. , Meyer Anna , Modig Karin
Published: February 2023

Aims:

To explore the relationships between adult offspring’s socioeconomic resources and the development of stroke and survival after stroke among older adults in Denmark and Sweden.

Methods:

The study included 1,464,740 Swedes and 835,488 Danes who had turned 65 years old between 2000 and 2015. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to analyse incident stroke and survival after stroke until 2020.

Results:

Lower level of offspring’s education, occupation and income were associated with higher hazards of stroke among both men and women in Sweden and Denmark. Associations with offspring’s education, occupation and income were most consistent for death after the acute phase and for educational level. From one to five years after stroke and compared with a high educational level of offspring, low and medium educational level were associated with 1.34 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.11; 1.62) and 1.18 (95% CI: 1.10; 1.27) as well as 1.26 (95% CI: 1.06; 1.48) and 1.14 (1.07; 1.21) times higher hazard of death in Swedish women and men, respectively. The corresponding estimates in the Danish population were 1.36 (1.20; 1.53) and 1.10 (1.01; 1.20) for women and 1.23 (95% CI: 1.11; 1.32) and 1.13 (95% CI: 1.05; 1.21) for men.

Conclusions:

Adult offspring socioeconomic resources are, independently of how we measure them and of individual socioeconomic characteristics, associated with development of stroke in old age in both Denmark and Sweden. The relationships between offspring socioeconomic resources and death after stroke are present especially after the acute phase and most pronounced for educational level as a measure of offspring socioeconomic resources.
Kenya’s Experience: Factors Enabling and Impeding the COVID-19 Response
Authors: Mwakisha Jemimah , Adika Ben , Nyawade Susan , Phori Peter Malekele , Nidjergou Noemie Nikiema , Silouakadila Cleph , Fawcett Stephen
Published: February 2023

This case study describes the country-level response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya between February 2020 and May 2021. We organize the presentation of COVID-19 response strategies across the five stages of (a) engagement, (b) assessment, (c) planning, (d) action/implementation, and (e) evaluation. We describe the participatory monitoring and evaluation (M&E) process implemented in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Africa Monitoring and Evaluation Team. The M&E system was used to organize and make sense of emerging data regarding specific response activities and changing COVID incidence. We share the results of that collaborative sensemaking, with particular attention to our analysis of the factors that facilitated and those that impeded our pandemic response. We conclude with lessons learned and practical implications from Kenya’s experience to help guide future country-level responses to rapidly changing public health crises.
The ‘First Person Shooter’ Perspective: A Different View on First Person Shooters, Gamification, and First Person Terrorist Propaganda
Authors: Andrews Sam
Published: February 2023

During the 2019 Christchurch attack, the perpetrator livestreamed footage from a helmet-mounted camera. The aesthetic similarity of the attack footage to first-person shooter (FPS) videogames has led to speculation that this might have somehow ‘gamified’ the attack. Generally, the argument for this is that the attack footage (1) imitates or resembles FPS games, gamifying attacks (2) increasing the affective appeal of propaganda by presenting it as play and thereby (3) increasing the salience of these attacks within gaming communities. This article challenges these notions. It argues that the FPS genre should not be associated with such footage due to visual similarity and is better considered in relation to film. The idea that such footage was purposefully shot to look like an FPS is unsupported, and more likely the result of practical considerations. While the framework of gamification might be useful, it should rest on interactivity, rather than aesthetic similarity.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Infectious Complications in Isolated Gunshot Wounds to the Upper Extremity
Authors: Brown Danielle J. , Payne Rachael M. , Van Handel Amelia C. , Shim Kevin G. , Tandon Damini , Chi David , Evans Adam G. , Pet Mitchell A.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Prophylactic antibiotics are variably prescribed after isolated upper extremity gunshot wounds (UE GSWs). The risk of infection and factors influencing prescribing practice remain poorly understood, and clinical practice guidelines are lacking.

Methods:

Adults with isolated UE GSWs over a 10-year period were included. Medical records were reviewed for demographic and injury variables, comorbidities, surgical treatments, antibiotic administration, infectious complications, and follow-up duration. Infection rate was calculated. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to identify patient-related and injury-related factors predictive of prophylactic antibiotic prescription.

Results:

A total of 281 patients were eligible for inclusion. Prophylactic antibiotics were prescribed at discharge for 111 patients (40%). Multivariable analysis revealed that patients with more distal injuries and ballistic fractures were significantly more likely to receive prophylactic antibiotics. Of patients with at least 30-day postinjury follow-up, 6% developed infections.

Conclusion:

Prophylactic antibiotic administration after UE GSWs was inconsistent but more common in patients with ballistic fractures and injuries in the hand. The overall incidence of infection was found to lie between 3% and 6%. The rate of infection in the antibiotic prophylaxis (2%-6%) group was similar to that in the no-antibiotic (5%-7%) group, suggesting that antibiotic prophylaxis may not have a large impact on infectious risk. However, because this study is nonrandomized, and because this study is underpowered for multivariable modeling of infectious risk, it remains possible that subgroups of this population may still benefit from antibiotic prophylaxis.
Apigenin and Exposure to Low Dose Gamma Radiation Ameliorate Acetic Acid-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Rats
Authors: Shibrya Eman E. , Rashed Rasha R. , Abd El Fattah Mai A. , El-Ghazaly Mona A. , Kenawy Sanaa A.
Published: February 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease involving chronic and recurring colon inflammation. Current management protocols are limited by adverse effects or short-term symptomatic relief. We aimed to investigate the possible therapeutic prospect of low dose gamma (γ) irradiation or apigenin treatment in acetic acid-induced UC in rats. Induction of UC was carried out by installation of acetic acid intra-rectally. One hour post-induction, rats received a sole dose of γ-radiation (0.5 Gray) or were treated with apigenin (3 mg/kg/day, peroral) for 7 successive days. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of both agents were assessed via determination of colon malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), total nitrate/nitrite (NOx), mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) contents as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Body weight (BW), colon weight/length (W/L) ratio, disease activity index (DAI), and histopathological changes were evaluated. Gamma irradiation and apigenin significantly ameliorated the acetic acid-induced biochemical and histopathological changes. Both therapeutic approaches significantly restored colon contents of the investigated biomarkers. They modulated BW, colon W/L ratio and DAI. This study proposes low dose γ-irradiation as a new therapeutic candidate for the management of UC. We also concluded that apigenin exhibited therapeutic benefits in UC management.
Corner separation control in compressor stators with jets from the blade leading edge
Authors: Zheng Huan , Zhou Zhenggui
Published: February 2023

Corner separation occurs easily in highly loaded compressor stators. This paper proposes a novel slot inside the stator blade, with the slot inlet located at the blade leading edge and the slot outlet located at the suction surface, by using the momentum of the incoming flow to form a high velocity jet to control the development of the boundary layer on the blade suction surface. For 3D compressor cascades, the influence of the key geometrical slot parameters on the flow fields in the slot and cascade passage and the aerodynamic performance of the cascade were investigated with a numerical method. Then, the stator blades in a highly loaded compressor stage were slotted to improve the flow in the stator blade passages. The main results can be summarized as follows. The use of slotted blades in the cascade effectively suppresses corner separation. When the cascade inlet velocity is high or the inlet flow is at a positive attack angle, the separation control effect improves. In the highly loaded compressor stage, slotted stator blades considerably reduced the flow loss at the stator corner, and the stage efficiency increased over the entire flow rate range. Furthermore, two cascades with unslotted and slotted blades were tested. The experimental and numerical results were consistent, demonstrating that the total pressure loss coefficient of a cascade can be effectively reduced by slotting the blades in the cascade.
Inhibiting the onset of thermoacoustic instability through targeted control of critical regions
Authors: Raghunathan Manikandan , George Nitin Babu , Unni Vishnu R. , Kurths Jürgen , Surovyatkina Elena , Sujith R. I.
Published: February 2023

This experimental study investigates the dynamical transition from stable operation to thermoacoustic instability in a turbulent bluff-body stabilised dump combustor. We conduct experiments to acquire acoustic pressure and local heat release rate fluctuations and use them to characterise this transition as we decrease the equivalence ratio towards a fuel-lean setting. More importantly, we observe a significant increase in local heat release rate fluctuations at critical locations well before thermoacoustic instability occurs. One of these critical locations is the stagnation zone in front of the bluff-body. By strategically positioning slots (perforations) on the bluff-body, we ensure the reduction of the growth of local heat release rate fluctuations at the stagnation zone near the bluff-body well before the onset of thermoacoustic instability. We show that this reduction in local heat release rate fluctuations inhibits the transition to thermoacoustic instability. We find that modified configurations of the bluff-body that do not quench the local heat release rate fluctuations at the stagnation zone result in the transition to thermoacoustic instability. We also reveal that an effective suppression strategy based on the growth of local heat release rate fluctuations requires an optimisation of the slots' area-ratio for a given bluff-body position. Further, the suppression strategy also depends on the spatial distribution of perforations on the bluff-body. Notably, an inappropriate distribution of the slots, which does not quench the local heat release rate fluctuations at the stagnation zone but creates new critical regions, may even result in a dramatic increase in the amplitudes of pressure oscillations.