bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EMPTY SELLA SYNDROME: THE GREAT IMITATOR OF VISUAL COMPLAINTS
Authors: Irma Josiah , Onasis Serena , Rizki Dr.Saraswati , Ketaren Dr.Retno , Budimulia Patricia
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Empty Sella Syndrome is a rare condition of sella turcica malformation, resulting in pituitary gland shrinkage. It may manifest as neurological symptoms, endocrine disorders, visual disturbances, or even incidental findings during imaging. However, patients rarely come with typical complaints thus an extended course and review of this case is needed to prompt suspicion and aid in the diagnosis of ESS.
Case Presentation: A 45-year-old woman with cephalgia, bitemporal hemianopia, previous transient bilateral visual loss, and foggy vision. A history of ovarian cancer was noted. Physical examination showed myopic astigmatism ocular dextra sinistra (ODS) with increased intraocular pressure and bitemporal hemianopia ODS. Posterior chamber examinations were within normal limits. Optical coherence tomography showed nasal retinal nerve fiber layer ODS being the thinnest among the rest, although still within normal limits. Neurological examinations also suggested the presence of central vertigo. This subsequently resulted in a suspicion of space-occupying lesion chiasmal compression through metastasis.
Discussion: MRI revealed an empty sella turcica. A laboratory examination was then ordered and showed normal endocrinology results. The diagnosis of Primary Empty Sella Syndrome with ocular hypertension was established. The patient was prescribed timolol, codeine, and dexamethasone. A month later during her follow-up, the patient did not show improvement and was suggested to do an MRI with contrast, however, this patient was lost to follow-up.
Conclusion: This case report highlighted the manifestation to raise suspicion and aid in the diagnosis of ESS for an optimal and improved diagnosis and treatment of ESS.
KOLOBOMA IRIS DAN KORIORETINA UNILATERAL: A RARE CASE
Authors: Ulir Budi Santoso Nong , Hafifah Fadillah Hana , Fatmawati Nur Khoma
Published: April 2023

Pendahuluan: Koloboma iris dan korioretina adalah penyakit kongenital yang ditandai dengan adanya defek pada struktur mata. Koloboma iris dan korioretina merupakan penyakit genetik dominan autosom, yang tidak bergantung pada jenis kelamin. Penyakit ini terjadi akibat kegagalan dari penutupan fisura koroidea selama perkembangan janin.
Laporan Kasus: Pasien wanita 12 tahun, suku Jawa, datang ke Klinik Spesialis Mata SMEC Samarinda pada tanggal 8 Februari 2023 dengan keluhan penglihatan mata kanan terasa silau saat berada diluar ruangan. Pasien memiliki riwayat lahir normal. Pada pemeriksaan oftamologi didapatkan tajam penglihatan mata kanan 20/200 dan mata kiri 20/30. Tekanan intraokular pasien normal, palpebra, kornea, bilik mata depan, dan lensa pada kedua mata normal. Hasil pemeriksaan funduskopi pada 8 Februari 2023 didapatkan gambaran koloboma korioretina pada mata kanan.
Diskusi: Pasien diberikan terapi dengan pemberian lensa mata kanan silindris -2,50 menjadi 20/40 dan mata  kiri spheris – 0,50 menjadi 20/20 dan Laser Barrage dilakukan sebagai prosedur profilaksis untuk pencegahan lepasnya retina sehat di luar coloboma. Tujuan prosedur ini adalah untuk memperkuat kontak antara retina dan lapisan pigmen retina sehingga ablasi retina dapat dicegah.
Kesimpulan: Pada pasien tidak ditemukan penyakit dan anomali penyerta.
On the Reform of the First Philosophy: After Leibniz, Maine de Biran
Authors: Baertschi Bernard
Published: May 2023

Leibniz is one of the philosophers who is most present in the philosophy of Maine de Biran, particularly from 1813 onwards. His influence is decisive in the reform of metaphysics (or First Philosophy) that he carries out from that moment on, reviving the notion of substance. Leibniz allows him to reconcile it with the idea of force, and thus to link it to the primitive fact of consciousness. This move has often been emphasized by commentators, but what has been less studied is the way in which this reform takes place in Biran’s intellectual trajectory from the time when he claimed to be an Ideologist inspired by Condillac’s philosophy, to the last texts written in 1824, when he eventually adopted a spiritualist monism that owed much to Leibniz, abandoning the Cartesian-inspired metaphysical dualism to which he had been committed until then.
Sympathy and Moral Sentiments in Maine de Biran’s Philosophy
Authors: Sanchez Grégoire
Published: May 2023

The foundation of morality, and mainly, the possibility of moral sentiments that are universal and inalienable, is a central problem in Maine de Biran’s philosophy. Many studies focus on the part played by the self in Maine de Biran’s late philosophy, but relatively few consider with precision the importance of the concept of sympathy in this context. In this paper, I would like to show that this concept, which Biran mobilizes from his first to his last writings, is an important conceptual resource in his enterprise of founding morality. I will draw on three main texts that cover almost the entire period in which he wrote, namely, his Mémoire sur l’influence de l’habitude sur la faculté de penser ([1802] 1987), his Mémoire sur les perceptions obscures ou sur les impressions générales affectives et les sympathies en particulier ([1807] 1984), and his Fragments relatifs aux fondements de la morale et de la religion ([1819] 1859). The main finding is that sympathy occupies a central place in this enterprise of moral foundation but undergoes profound and almost contradictory conceptual re-elaborations throughout Biran’s intellectual journey. Although in his first philosophical texts Biran concentrates on the fundamental dimension of organic sympathy, he rejects it almost entirely in his last texts in favor of an analysis of the sympathy between the selves.
“She Gazed Through the Window”: Gender and Grammatical Voice in Ancient Hebrew
Authors: Olivero Vladimir
Published: April 2023

The verbs נִשְׁקַף and הִשְׁקִיף are usually both rendered into English as “to look down,” with no apparent difference in meaning despite their occurrence in the niphal and the hiphil, respectively. However, there seems to be a clear pattern in the choice between the two binyanim, which is determined by the gender of the person described. The author’s selection of either stem may give us a glimpse into the Weltanschauung of the biblical writers and their perception of how men and women acted in society and on the stage of life. In one interesting instance regarding queen Jezebel (2 Kgs 9:30), the regular linguistic pattern is reversed to further emphasise the stark contrast between her character and the usual way in which female characters are described in the Hebrew Bible. Paying attention to the general pattern also gives additional evidence in the question of the identity of the speaker in Prov 7:6.
Xanthagaricus montgomeryensis sp. nov. (Agaricaceae, Agaricales) from Chichawatni Forest, Punjab Pakistan
Authors: FATIMA NADIA , ABDUL NASIR KHALID
Published: April 2023

A new species of Xanthagaricus, is described based on collections made from Chichawatni Forest, District Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan. It is characterized by medium-sized basidiomata, pale-yellowish pileus with yellowish to dark brown squamules, and small oblong to ellipsoid yellowish basidiospores (3.99–4.87 × 2.12–2.85 µm). Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the Internal Transcribed Spacers (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 = ITS) and D1/D2 domains of the large subunit (28S) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA, also support the finding that Xanthagaricus montgomeryensis is distinct from other known species within the genus Xanthagaricus.
Erysiphe machilicola: a new powdery mildew species on Duthie’s Bay Tree
Authors: ZAFAR IRSA , AFSHAN NAJAM-UL-SEHAR , KHALID ABDUL NASIR , GÖTZ MONIKA
Published: April 2023

A new species of Erysiphe infecting Duthie’s bay tree in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan, is described and illustrated based on molecular and morphological analyses. Erysiphe machilicola sp. nov. is morphologically distinct from other Erysiphe species on hosts of the Lauraceae by having longer conidiophores, larger chasmothecia with longer appendages, above all, it is distinguished from E. machiliana, the only so far known Erysiphe species on Machilus, by lacking bristle-like appendages (remnant of anchor hyphae) and a different phylogenetic position, confirmed by sequence analyses of the type material of the latter species. The phylogenetic relationship of the new species to other closely related species is discussed based on ITS rDNA sequences, which phylogenetically supports its identity as a new species within the genus Erysiphe. A comprehensive description along with photographs and a phylogram showing its exact phylogenetic position and a comparison with closely related taxa is provided.
A new species of the genus Crossodonthina (Collembola: Neanuridae: Neanurinae: Lobellini) from Yonaguni-jima in southwest Japan
Authors: KASAI HIRO , TANAKA SHINGO , SAWAHATA TAKUO
Published: May 2023

We describe a new species of Collembola, Crossodonthina elegans sp. nov., collected from Yonaguni-jima, southwest Japan. This new species differs from other known congeners because it has an unusual white or yellow color pattern on Ant. I and Th. I. It is similar to C. laterisensillata Ohira, Kataoka, Tanooka & Nakamori, 2022, in the structure of mouthparts, 3 + 3 eyes, cephalic chaeta O present, and tubercles De and Dl separated on Abd. V. However, it is easily distinguished from the latter species to maxilla without ciliated lamella, cephalic tubercle Dl separated from L and So, 5 chaetae of tubercle L on Abd. I and III, and macrochaetae apically rounded. We provide the key to all species of the genus and discuss the unique color pattern of the new species among the tribe Lobellini.
The types of Phasmatodea (= Phasmida) deposited in the Eidgenössisches Technisches Hochschulzentrum, Zürich, Switzerland (ETHZ)
Authors: HENNEMANN FRANK H. , CONLE OSKAR V. , BROCK PAUL D.
Published: May 2023

Type specimens of 42 taxa of Phasmatodea (including probable type specimens of 14 taxa) have been located in the Eidgenössisches Technisches Hochschulzentrum, Zürich. The species are listed alphabetically, with the number of specimens, sex and locality data. Some minor taxonomic changes are proposed: 1 new combination, 1 revised combination, 2 lectotype designations.
Hidden in plain sight: two new species of decapod crustaceans (Palaemonidae and Porcellanidae) discovered in the Red Sea on a university campus in Saudi Arabia
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR , BENZONI FRANCESCA
Published: May 2023

Two new symbiotic species of decapod crustaceans, a palaemonid shrimp and a porcellanid crab, are described from the same type locality situated on the campus of the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. The palaemonid shrimp Palaemonella jamila sp. nov. is described based on one male and one female, whereas the porcellanid crab Enosteoides habibi sp. nov. is described based on three males and two females. Unfortunately, the originally collected and studied specimens were lost shortly after study. However, subsequent recollection of one specimen of P. jamila sp. nov. and one specimen of E. habibi sp. nov. enabled to deposit a holotype of each new species in the collections of the Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville, USA. Both species inhabit burrows of goby-associated snapping shrimps, Alpheus spp., in the shallow subtidal areas, at depths less than 1 m. In addition, a single female specimen of Palaemonella aliska Marin, 2008 collected at Al Fahal reef off KAUST represents the first record of the species in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, and a considerable range extension of its previously known distribution range. This species may be a close relative of P. jamila sp. nov., to which it is also ecologically similar. The present study highlights the necessity of prospecting the largely neglected and still undersampled shallow subtidal habitats of the Red Sea, and the Indo-West Pacific in general.
Review of the species of Sorolopha Lower (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Japan, with descriptions of three new species
Authors: SAKAGAMI KOTA
Published: May 2023

In this study, the genus Sorolopha Lower, 1901 in Japan was reviewed with five species including three that are described herein as new: S. sugiurai Sakagami, sp. nov., S. viridis Sakagami, sp. nov., and S. baribaris Sakagami, sp. nov. Adults of S. sugiurai and S. baribaris emerged from leaf shelters of Actinodaphne acuminata (Lauraceae). Larvae of S. viridis feed on young leaves of Illicium anisatum (Schisandraceae). S. viridis is known from Honshu and Yakushima Island, S. baribaris from Honshu and Kyushu, and S. sugiurai only from Honshu (Wakayama Prefecture). Diagnoses, biological information, and images of the adults, and male and female genitalia are provided.
Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube on the Microstructure, Physical and Mechanical Properties of ZrO2–CaO/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Biocomposite for Bone Reconstruction Application
Authors: Kashan Jenan S. , Al-Allaq Ali A. , Fouad Hassan , Yahia M. E.
Published: May 2023

After bone implant, short-term complications can lead to a complicated approach to recovery, requiring surgical correction associated with additive risks, such as deep infection and double fracture. The development of synthesized biomaterials for bone replacement or repair, as well
as the prevalence of osteoporosis, bone fracture, and bone cancer, is therefore of significant importance. This work aims to demonstrate the effect of adding multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) to the (PMMA/ZrO2–CaO) bio-composites to fabricate a new hybrid biocomposite
system for bone recovery and replacement applications. Four groups of composite samples were produced PMMA/(0, 5, 10, 15, 20)% weights of ZrO2–CaO and adding (0, .1, 0.25, 0.5, 1)% weights of (MWCNTs) to each group. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), surface topography by field
emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and fracture strength tests were performed to evaluate the samples’ properties. A number of the most significant characteristics obtained through XRD exhibited a high degree of homogeneous mixing of the composites. In the examination, smooth
peaks were obtained and the homogeneous distribution resulted in phase stability. A FE-SEM analysis demonstrated the presence of fibrous structures following the addition of MWCNTs, indicating that this approach would promote adhesion and healing of the tissue, as well as a fibrous arrangement
that mimics that of natural bone. The results also showed improvements in mechanical properties by approximately 57%, 38%, 45%, and 6.5% due to the addition of MWCNTs compared to the version sample. Based on the experimental results, the study highlights the potential of these composites in
bone reconstruction applications.
Protective Effect of Klotho on Acute Kidney Injury Caused by Contrast Agents
Authors: Liu Chao , Wei Yong , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2023

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is currently the third leading cause of iatrogenic renal failure. This research mainly explores the protective effect of Klotho on CIN. Klotho (10 ng/g) was administered after the establishment of a CIN mouse model, and the changes of tissue structure
and renal function were observed, and the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and senescence-related factors were detected. Compared with the control group, the brush border of renal tubular epithelial cells disappeared, cytoplasmic vacuole-like changes, renal tubular dilatation, and renal function
were significantly reduced in the model group. Klotho treatment can effectively alleviate changes in renal tubular epithelial structure and function. Compared with the model group, Klotho treatment can obviously inhibit the expression of P27 and P53, and promote the expression of Sirt1 and
Bmi-1, and Klotho can regulate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Exogenous Klotho can slow down nephrocyte senescence by regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, thereby protecting kidney.
Dementia is Associated With Inferior Outcomes Following Emergency General Surgery
Authors: Verma Arjun , Branche Corynn , Chervu Nikhil L. , Sakowitz Sara , Bakhtiyar Syed Shahyan , Hadaya Joseph , Benharash Peyman
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Given the steadily aging United States population, we used a national database to examine the association of dementia with clinical and financial outcomes following emergency general surgery.

Methods

All adults undergoing non-elective appendectomy, cholecystectomy, small bowel resection, large bowel resection, repair of perforated ulcer, or lysis of adhesions were identified within the 2016-2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Entropy balancing and multivariable regressions were used to assess the risk-adjusted association between dementia and in-hospital mortality, complications, length of stay, costs, non-home discharge, and 30-day unplanned readmissions.

Results

Of an estimated 1,332,922 patients, 2.7% had dementia. Compared to those without, patients with dementia were older, more commonly male, and had a greater burden of chronic conditions. Following entropy balancing and multivariable risk-adjustment, dementia was associated with increased odds of mortality and sepsis across all operations except perforated ulcer repair. Dementia was also linked to greater likelihood of pneumonia across all operative categories. Moreover, dementia was associated with increased length of stay for patients in all operative categories except perforated ulcer repair, while costs were only increased for those undergoing appendectomy, cholecystectomy, and lysis of adhesions. Dementia was also linked to higher odds of non-home discharge following all operations, while non-elective readmissions were only increased for patients undergoing cholecystectomy.

Conclusions

The present study found dementia to be associated with a significant clinical and financial burden. Our findings may help inform shared decision making with patients and their families.
Medication regimen complexity (MRC-ICU) for in-hospital mortality prediction in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Azimi Hanna , Johnson Logan , Loudermilk Carly , Chase Aaron , Forehand Christy Cecil , Sikora Andrea
Published: May 2023

Purpose:

The medication regimen complexity-intensive care unit (MRC-ICU) score was developed prior to the existence of COVID-19. The purpose of this study was to assess if MRC-ICU could predict in-hospital mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Methods:

A single-center, observational study was conducted from August 2020 to January 2021. The primary outcome of this study was the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) for in-hospital mortality for the 48-hour MRC-ICU. Age, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA), and World Health Organization (WHO) COVID-19 Severity Classification were assessed. Logistic regression was performed to predict in-hospital mortality as well as WHO Severity Classification at 7 days.

Results:

A total of 149 patients were included. The median SOFA score was 8 (IQR 5-11) and median MRC-ICU score at 48 hours was 15 (IQR 7-21). The in-hospital mortality rate was 36% (n = 54). The AUROC for MRC-ICU was 0.71 (95% Confidence Interval (CI), 0.62-0.78) compared to 0.66 for age, 0.81 SOFA, and 0.72 for the WHO Severity Classification. In univariate analysis, age, SOFA, MRC-ICU, and WHO Severity Classification all demonstrated significant association with in-hospital mortality, while SOFA, MRC-ICU, and WHO Severity Classification demonstrated significant association with WHO Severity Classification at 7 days. In univariate analysis, all 4 characteristics showed significant association with mortality; however, only age and SOFA remained significant following multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:

In the first analysis of medication-related variables as a predictor of severity and in-hospital mortality in COVID-19, MRC-ICU demonstrated acceptable predictive ability as represented by AUROC; however, SOFA was the strongest predictor in both AUROC and regression analysis.
PD to promote a ‘Yes! And…’ mindset
Authors: Margolis Aleta
Published: May 2023

Professional development in its current form falls short. It is unengaging, ineffective, and considered a waste of time by participants. At a time when the world is experiencing rapid change and schools are facing increasing scrutiny and mounting pressure to improve academic performance, we need professional development that works. Aleta Margolis describes how the practices of skilled improvisers can inform effective teaching and professional development that supports and uplifts teachers and their students.
Teaching students to be skilled citizens
Authors: Schneider Jack , Soto-Shed Eric , McGovern Karalyn
Published: May 2023

Interest in improving civic education is growing, but there’s no clear definition of what civic education should be. To understand what kinds of skills civics education should promote in students, Jack Schneider, Eric Soto-Shed, and Karalyn McGovern surveyed 100 experts and 500 ordinary citizens, asking them to name the tasks that skilled citizens engage in. The activities respondents named most frequently involved political engagement, building an informed community, interpersonal tasks, and volunteering. These findings provide a starting point for the development of civics education curricula.
Knitting region segmentation and knitting parameter generation for three-dimensional model of socks
Authors: Ru Xin , Yan Caijie , Peng Laihu , Hu Xudong , Shi Weimin
Published: May 2023

To achieve accuracy when customizing knitted products, the size parameters of various parts of the user's body, such as arm length and waist circumference, are obtained via manual measurement or three-dimensional scanning. However, for customized products such as medical socks, which have high-precision design requirements, the existing customization design methods can only ensure the accuracy of key data, such as foot length and foot height, but cannot meet the requirements for all-round customization based on users' foot data. To improve design accuracy, this study proposes a method to generate automatically a continuous set of fine size parameters that are required for knitting from a three-dimensional model of socks based on the idea of simulated knitting. Specifically, a region segmentation method based on the shape diameter function and model skeleton is developed. The sock model is divided into regions such as heel, foot, and toe, which correspond to the knitting process. In addition, a method to simulate the knitting process of a sock machine is developed, which enables loop-by-loop knitting using a sock machine via layer-by-layer iterative sampling on the surface of the model. The sampling axis is generated based on the model skeleton as the direction of sock knitting for the simulation. In the process of simulating knitting, the knitting method is switched between the divided area. Then, the knitting path of the yarn and the parameters required for the simulated sock machine that meet the sock-making process conditions are obtained. Finally, actual socks are knitted using the machine with the obtained knitting parameters, and the proportion of each area of the socks is compared with that of the model. The error is less than 6%. The proposed method can improve the production accuracy of customized socks, which is of great significance for improving the three-dimensional molding technology of socks.
Evaporation coefficient determination during the capillary rise
Authors: Alfaleh Ayman , Benltoufa Sofien , Fayala Faten
Published: May 2023

Thermo-physiological comfort refers to the heat and moisture transport properties of clothing and how the clothing helps maintain the body's heat balance during various activities. To maintain the thermoregulation of the body, the resulting sweating should be absorbed by wicking fabrics close to the skin and evaporated to the ambient air. In this study, a mathematical model was developed considering evaporation during the capillary rise, based on the geometric configuration of a jersey-knitted fabric and taking evaporation into account. This model was used to calculate the evaporation coefficient. Based on the activities of the worker, sweat diffusion is controlled by capillary diffusion and moisture evaporation. The effect of air velocities of 0 m/s, 1 m/s, and 2 m/s, representing non-walking, walking, and running activities of a worker, respectively, was studied during capillary diffusion. The experiments were conducted at different relative humidities. The results show that the evaporation coefficient depends on the worker’s activities and the relative humidity ratio.
Social Support During Reentry: Family, Mentor, Religious, Parole Officer, and Social Service Roles
Authors: Liu Lin , Becker Patricia , Mowen Thomas J.
Published: May 2023

Existing research on social support and reentry primarily focuses on a single dimension of support, such as family or community support. Informed by the social support perspective, this study assessed how combined support from family, mentors, religious groups, parole officers, and social service agencies influences reentry outcomes. Given that the social support one receives during reentry is time-variant rather than static, longitudinal multilevel modeling was employed to examine how temporal changes in social support were associated with temporal changes in recidivism and drug misuse among people on parole. Results indicated that simultaneous support from family, parole officers, and social service agencies exerted protective effects on reentry outcomes. However, community-based mentoring programs had no significant effect on recidivism, and religious and social service support increased substance misuse. Policy implications derived from this research are discussed to address the intersection of various sources of social support.
A dynamical convolutional neural network–based adaptive observer for information-poor systems
Authors: Wallam Fahad
Published: May 2023

The objective of this paper is to propose a novel self-learning observer for effectively estimating unmeasured states of a dynamical information-poor system. By inspiring the success of convolutional neural network (CNN) in image and voice recognition applications, the dynamical convolutional neural network (DCNN) architecture (which is nonlinear-in-parameter unlike traditional basis functions–based neural network or fuzzy logic architectures) is proposed for approximating the unknown system dynamics, uncertainties, and disturbances. Instead of using an output observation error filtering method, complex weight-updating mechanism, strictly positive real (SPR) assumption, offline-tuning mechanisms, static approximation of gradients in back-propagation algorithm, or any other strong or strict requirement, the simple yet effective and novel rules for tuning DCNN weights and kernels are derived. Furthermore, the problems such as parameters over-tuning and unnecessary consumption of large amounts of computational power commonly found in traditional neuro-adaptive and fuzzy-adaptive controllers/observers are addressed and their solution is incorporated in the design of the observer. Thus, the proposed DCNN-based adaptive observer is energy-efficient. A quadratic function based on the convolution operator is also proposed which is utilized to provide the closed-loop stability analysis using Lyapunov’s approach. An example is simulated to demonstrate the performance of the proposed observer.
A Marxist reading of Ludwig Wittgenstein: Making the case for social and political change
Authors: Deegan Marc James
Published: May 2023

This article offers a Marxist reading of Wittgenstein and juxtaposes his famous dictum that philosophy ‘leaves everything as it is’ with the idea of transformative action. I seek to align the later philosophy of Wittgenstein with Marx’s 11th thesis on Feuerbach. I advance an unorthodox view interpreting Wittgenstein as an advocate for social and political reform. Wittgenstein’s philosophy encourages us to imagine alternatives and contemplate concrete possibilities for changing the world. The debate operates within the philosophy of education and draws inspiration from related inquiries in political thought and, more specifically, from Marxist connections with Wittgenstein.
Candidate neuroinflammatory markers of cerebral autoregulation dysfunction in human acute brain injury
Authors: Smith Claudia A , Carpenter Keri LH , Hutchinson Peter J , Smielewski Peter , Helmy Adel
Published: May 2023

The loss of cerebral autoregulation (CA) is a common and detrimental secondary injury mechanism following acute brain injury and has been associated with worse morbidity and mortality. However patient outcomes have not as yet been conclusively proven to have improved as a result of CA-directed therapy. While CA monitoring has been used to modify CPP targets, this approach cannot work if the impairment of CA is not simply related to CPP but involves other underlying mechanisms and triggers, which at present are largely unknown. Neuroinflammation, particularly inflammation affecting the cerebral vasculature, is an important cascade that occurs following acute injury. We hypothesise that disturbances to the cerebral vasculature can affect the regulation of CBF, and hence the vascular inflammatory pathways could be a putative mechanism that causes CA dysfunction. This review provides a brief overview of CA, and its impairment following brain injury. We discuss candidate vascular and endothelial markers and what is known about their link to disturbance of the CBF and autoregulation. We focus on human traumatic brain injury (TBI) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), with supporting evidence from animal work and applicability to wider neurologic diseases.
Low Self-Control and Delinquent Behavior Among Caribbean Youths: The Moderating Role of Parental Supervision
Authors: Baek Hyunin , Han Sungil , Seepersad Randy
Published: May 2023

Delinquent behavior represents a serious concern in the Caribbean. In order to provide insights useful for explaining deviant behavior among youths in Caribbean countries, this study examines the importance of self-control and parental supervision as predictors of deviant behavior. The study assesses direct as well as interaction effects of both variables. For the study, data from Guyana, St. Kitts and Nevis and St. Lucia were analyzed. The sample included 1,140 juveniles aged between 10 and 19 years. The results of regression analyses showed that self-control was a significant predictor of delinquent behavior. It was also found that the provision of parental supervision was able to mitigate the impact of low self-control on delinquency. This finding applied to males as well as females in the sample.
Sampling chamber with minimal wall surface for simultaneous emission testing of diisocyanates and diamines from polyurethane products
Authors: Karlsson Daniel
Published: May 2023

A sampling chamber was developed for emission testing of diisocyanates, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and corresponding diamines, methylene diphenyl diamine (MDA), and toluene diamine (TDA) from polyurethane (PU) product surfaces. In addition, a methodology for validation of the sampling chamber was presented, based on the introduction of generated standard atmospheres of the different diisocyanates and diamines to the sampling chamber system. Sampling of diisocyanates and diamines was performed on a circular glass fiber filter (150 mm diameter) impregnated with dihexyl amine (DHA) and acetic acid (AA) positioned inside a cylindrical stainless steel sampling chamber. The diisocyanates were immediately derivatized to DHA derivatives, and the amines were derivatized in a subsequent work-up procedure with ethyl chloroformate (ECF). The design of the sampling chamber and the presented methodology allowed for simultaneous sampling and analysis of diisocyanates and diamines of emission from a large surface area with minimal interior wall interaction in the sampling chamber. Performance characteristics of the sampling chamber for different sampling times and air humidity were obtained by determining collected amounts of the diisocyanates and diamines in the different parts of the sampling chamber. The repeatability of the collected amount on the impregnated filters in the sampling chamber was 15% with an overall recovery for 8 h of sampling in the range of 61% to 96%. The performance of the sampling chamber was not affected by air humidity (5%–75% RH), and no breakthrough during sampling was observed. LC-MS/MS determinations allowed for emission testing of diisocyanates and diamines on product surfaces as low as 10–30 ng m−2 h−1.
Language and Cognitive Outcomes Following Ischemic Stroke in Children With Monolingual and Bilingual Exposure
Authors: Leung Kai Ian , Dlamini Nomazulu , Westmacott Robyn , Molnar Monika
Published: May 2023

Aim: Although many children who experience ischemic stroke come from bilingual backgrounds, it is unclear whether bilingual exposure affects poststroke development. Our research evaluates bilingual and monolingual exposure on linguistic/cognitive development poststroke across 3 stroke-onset groups. Method: An institutional stroke registry and medical charts were used to gather data on 237 children across 3 stroke-onset groups: neonatal, <28 days; first-year, 28 days to 12 months; and childhood, 13 months to 18 years. The Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure (PSOM), administered several times poststroke, was used to evaluate cognition and linguistic development. Results: Similar cognitive outcomes were observed across language groups. However, an interaction effect with stroke-onset group was observed, with monolinguals in the first-year group having worse productive language outcomes as compared to bilinguals. Interpretation: Overall, no detrimental effects of bilingualism were found on children's poststroke cognition and linguistic development. Our study suggests that a bilingual environment may facilitate language development in children poststroke.
More Effective Communication During Inpatient Addiction Treatment
Authors: Marcovitz David E. , Kast Kristopher A.
Published: May 2023

In this commentary, the authors argue that historical approaches to inpatient addiction treatment favoring more confrontational, expert-centric, or paternalistic undercurrents continue to permeate the hidden curriculum in medical training. These older approaches unfortunately continue to inform how many trainees learn to approach inpatient addiction treatment. The authors go on to provide several examples of how clinical challenges specific to inpatient addiction treatment can be addressed by employing principles of motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and psychodynamic thought. Key skills are described including accurate reflection, recognition of countertransference, and assisting patients to sit with important dialectics. The authors call for greater training of attending physicians, precepting advanced practice providers, and trainees across these disciplines, as well as further study of whether systematic improvements in such provider communication may alter patient outcomes.
Population pharmacokinetics of meropenem in patients undergoing automated peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Ullah Sami , Ursli Martin , Fuhr Uwe , Wiesholzer Martin , Kussmann Manuel , Poeppl Wolfgang , Zeitlinger Markus , Taubert Max
Published: May 2023

Background:

Meropenem is a second-line agent for the treatment of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PD peritonitis), while information on pharmacokinetics (PK) of intraperitoneal (i.p.) meropenem is limited in this patient group. The objective of the present evaluation was to assess a pharmacokinetic rationale for the selection of meropenem doses in automated PD (APD) patients based on population PK modelling.

Methods:

Data were available from a PK study in six patients undergoing APD who received a single 500 mg dose of meropenem intravenous or i.p. A population PK model was developed for plasma and dialysate concentrations ( n = 360) using Monolix. Monte Carlo simulations were carried out to assess the probability of achieving meropenem concentrations above minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 2 and 8 mg/L, representing susceptible and less susceptible pathogens respectively, for at least 40% of the dosing interval ( T >MIC ≥ 40%).

Results:

A two-compartment model for each plasma and dialysate concentrations with one transit compartment for the transfer from plasma to dialysate fluid described the data well. An i.p. dose of 250 and 750 mg, for an MIC of 2 and 8 mg/L respectively, was sufficient to attain the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic target ( T >MIC ≥ 40%) in more than 90% patients in plasma and dialysate. Additionally, the model predicted that no relevant meropenem accumulation in plasma and/or peritoneal fluid would occur with prolonged treatment.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that an i.p. dose of 750 mg daily is optimal for pathogens with an MIC 2–8 mg/L in APD patients.
Rupture, repetition, and new rhythms for pandemic times: Mass Observation, everyday life, and COVID-19
Authors: Lyon Dawn , Coleman Rebecca
Published: April 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has foregrounded the significance of time to everyday life, as the routines, pace, and speed of social relations were widely reconfigured. This article uses rhythm as an object and tool of inquiry to make sense of spatio-temporal change. We analyse the Mass Observation (MO) directive we co-commissioned on ‘COVID-19 and Time’, where volunteer writers reflect on whether and how time was made, experienced, and imagined differently during the early stages of the pandemic in the UK. We draw on Henri Lefebvre and Catherine Régulier's ‘rhythmanalysis’, taking up their theorisation of rhythm as linear and cyclical and their concepts of arrhythmia (discordant rhythms) and eurhythmia (harmonious rhythms). Our analysis highlights how MO writers articulate (a) the ruptures to their everyday rhythms across time and space, (b) their experience of ‘blurred’ or ‘merged’ time as everyday rhythms are dissolved and the pace of time is intensified or slowed, and (c) the remaking of rhythms through new practices or devices and attunements to nature. We show how rhythm enables a consideration of the spatio-temporal textures of everyday life, including their unevenness, variation, and difference. The article thus contributes to and expands recent scholarship on the social life of time, rhythm and rhythmanalysis, everyday life, and MO.
Epoxy-based ZnO nanocomposites in various configurations: Corona discharges and thermal transition studies
Authors: Velani Mihir N , Patel Ritesh R
Published: May 2023

Polymeric epoxy-based nanocomposites have tremendously grown in electronic and indoor high-voltage insulation applications over the last two decades. The interface between the epoxy resin and inorganic fillers surprisingly improves the performance compared to neat epoxy and conventional ceramic insulators. However, several configurations, including the filler loading, filler size, and synthesis process, substantially impact performance. Dielectrics employed in power equipment are often exposed to corona discharges, causing surface erosion and may cause flashover due to prolonged exposure to the discharges. Also, dielectrics must continuously endure heat from leakage currents or surrounding temperatures. The present work examines various configurations of the epoxy/ZnO composites for the corona discharge resistance and thermal stability: the effect of filler loading, preparation method of nanocomposites, and co-filling of nano-micro fillers. The ZnO nanoparticles were disseminated in the epoxy resin using a probe and bath sonicator with and without solvent. It also includes the impact of heated nanoparticles. The corona discharge tests were performed using a set-up similar to CIGRE working group D1.24. The studies of surface degradation were conducted using surface roughness metrics obtained from an optical 3D profilometer. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to perform the thermal analyses as per ASTM E1356. It was found that compared to all the filled specimens, the neat epoxy experienced more severe erosion. In addition, the specimen filled with ZnO nanoparticles endured positive corona discharges compared to negative and AC discharges. The specimen prepared with heated nanoparticles without solvent using a probe sonicator showed high heat energy and heat capacity leading to thermal instability. Besides, the interface between nano-micro particles and the host material increases corona discharge resistance and thermal stability.
An integrated framework to evaluate and improve the performance of emergency departments during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mathematical programing approach
Authors: Taghipour Fatemeh , Hamid Mahdi , Aghakarimi Ehsan , Rabbani Masoud
Published: May 2023

The emergency department (ED) is one of the most critical and high-risk sections of the health system. Providing quality services at a fast pace is vital in this ward since it directly affects people’s lives. The COVID-19 pandemic has turned into a serious challenge for physicians and emergency departments (EDs). The growing number of patients who refer to EDs creates congestion, which will reduce the quality of services. Consequently, managing and operating EDs will be more urgent during this pandemic. Considering this problem, we first used data envelopment analysis (DEA) to evaluate the performance of EDs in the central provinces of Iran. Then, sensitivity analysis was used to determine the main factors affecting the efficiency of this ward. Accordingly, the high number of admitted patients, the congestion of the ward, and the long time required to report the COVID-19 test results were found to be the most influential factors. Finally, drawing on the results of sensitivity analysis, we advance a number of measures to improve these three and other related indicators. Furthermore, appropriate strategies were presented for improving health, COVID-19 management, key performance indicators, and safety indicators in accordance with the results of strengths-weaknesses-opportunity-threat (SWOT) analysis.
Current Challenges of Implementing the new Curriculum in Primary Education
Authors: Xhemajli Arbona , Malaj Fitore , Mehmeti Liridona
Published: May 2023

During the last few years, the new Curriculum in preuniversity education is being implemented in our country. The research aims to analyze the challenges and obstacles in the implementation of the new Curriculum in Kosovo and to recommend appropriate approaches for its implementation in school practice. The research was carried out through a quantitative approach with teachers ( N = 50) through questionnaires and through a qualitative approach; interviewing the primary education officer. Also, a special focus group was carried out with quality coordinators, in order to identify the challenges faced by this level of education.
Should Special Staining (AB/PAS) be Routinely Performed in Gastric Biopsies for the Detection of Intestinal Metaplasia?
Authors: Kiliçarslan Ahmet , Varli Gökhan
Published: May 2023

Background. Gastric intestinal metaplasia increases the risk of gastric cancer by nine times. Although attempts are made to diagnose it using endoscopic methods, the final diagnosis is established by examining and reporting biopsy samples. Although there are studies in the literature that do not recommend routine special staining, many laboratories routinely perform alcian blue/periodic acid Schiffs (AB/PAS) staining, in addition to hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. In this study, we examined the need for performing routine special staining. Methods. Seven hundred forty-one consecutive gastric biopsies obtained from the archive of our laboratory in 2019 were included in the study. One day after evaluating the cases using H&E, they were evaluated with AB/PAS without examining the H&E results. Result. All of the intestinal metaplasia lesions detected in H&E were observed with AB/PAS. However, we missed 14 (13.73%) of 102 intestinal metaplasia lesions with H&E that we detected using AB/PAS. We found the sensitivity and specificity of H&E in detecting intestinal metaplasia were 86.3% and 99.7%, respectively. When we retrospectively examined the 14 missed lesions in H&E staining, we could observe intestinal metaplasia in six biopsies, but it was not possible in eight (7.8%). Conclusion. Considering that gastric intestinal metaplasia is a precancerous lesion, we think that this ratio (13.73%) is high and that the number of malignancies can be reduced with a low-cost special stain. In this context, we advocate and recommend routinely performing inexpensive special staining such as AB/PAS to detect intestinal metaplasia in all gastric biopsies.
Invisibility and Negative Career Outcome Expectations among Racially and Ethnically Diverse College Students at a Predominantly White Institution
Authors: Suh Han Na , Flores Lisa Y. , Johanson-Murray Remy , Park Sangha , Lee Foong Yan
Published: May 2023

The present study explored the relationship between invisibility experiences, a component of microaggressions, and negative career outcome expectations among a sample of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) students attending a predominantly White institution of higher education (PWI). Additionally, given that invisibility is experienced differently across gender (i.e., intersecting invisibility), we explored whether the relationship between invisibility experiences and negative career outcome expectations differed across women and men. With a sample of 103 BIPOC college students, the findings supported the hypothesis of a significant positive relationship between invisibility experiences and a negative outlook on career advancement. Using Hayes’ SPSS PROCESS, the results also supported the moderation role of binary gender on the relationship between invisibility experiences and negative career outcome expectations in which the relationship was observed only for self-identified men BIPOC students. Implications include providing more attention to the invisibility experiences of BIPOC students, particularly at PWIs, and placing greater effort in assisting with the career development of BIPOC men college students. Specifically, given the significant moderation by gender relationship, customized interventions based on intersecting invisibility experiences are warranted. Additional discussion of the study’s implications and limitations are further described.