bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation and validation of the Evidence-based Practice Profile Questionnaire (EBP2Q) for clinical postgraduates in a Chinese context
Authors: Jia Yitong , Zhuang Xinqi , Zhang Yao , Meng Ge , Qin Shijia , Shi Wen-Xin , Wu Xiaojian , Zhang Yin-Ping
Published: August 2023

Background

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is an essential approach of optimizing patient outcomes and driving progress in clinical practice. As an important reserve talent of medical staff and researchers, the clinical postgraduates are expected to become the backbones of supporting the implementation of EBP in clinical units after graduation. The assessment of their EBP learning outcomes is an important issue, yet few tools have been developed specifically in Mainland China. The purpose of this study is to adapt the Evidence-Based Practice Profile Questionnaire (EBP2Q) to Mainland China’s cultural context and to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese EBP2Q in clinical postgraduates.

Methods

Cross-cultural modification, including translating the original EBP2Q into Chinese was implemented according to established guidelines. A pilot study was carried out in Mainland China among 30 clinical postgraduates. A subsequent validation study was conducted among 633 clinical postgraduates majoring in clinical medicine, stomatology and nursing from Mainland China. Construct validity was assessed by exploratory factor analysis (n = 313), together with confirmatory factor analysis (n = 320). Reliability was determined by internal consistency and test-retest reliability.

Results

The Chinese EBP2Q consisted of 40 items. The content validity index of the Chinese EBP2Q achieved 0.938 at an acceptable level. Principal component analysis resulted in a four-factor structure explaining 61.586% of the total variance. All fitting indices satisfied the standard based upon confirmatory factor analyses, indicating that the four-factor structure contributed to an ideal model fit. The internal consistency appeared high for the Chinese EBP2Q, reaching a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.926. Test–retest reliability was 0.868 and the split-half coefficient was 0.925.

Conclusion

Chinese version of EBP2Q possesses adequate validity, test-retest reliability and internal consistency. It is a promising questionnaire to be adopted by Chinese medical educators in designing their course and curriculum, or by clinical postgraduates for self-assessment of EBP learning.
The missing voices in the conscientious objection debate: British service users’ experiences of conscientious objection to abortion
Authors: Self Becky , Maxwell Clare , Fleming Valerie
Published: August 2023

Background

The fourth section of the 1967 Abortion Act states that individuals (including health care practitioners) do not have to participate in an abortion if they have a conscientious objection. A conscientious objection is a refusal to participate in abortion on the grounds of conscience. This may be informed by religious, moral, philosophical, ethical, or personal beliefs. Currently, there is very little investigation into the impact of conscientious objection on service users in Britain. The perspectives of service users are imperative in understanding the real-world consequences and potential impact of conscientious objection and should be considered when creating and reviewing policies and guidelines. This research provided a platform for women and those who can become pregnant to share their experiences and opinions at a time when these voices are largely excluded in the great tradition of Western political philosophy and law-making processes.

Method

Five service users were interviewed using a narrative interview approach to uncover their abortion journeys and experiences of conscientious objection.

Findings

The findings were presented as found poems and uncovered that doctors are not always: informing service users that they have a conscientious objection to abortion, giving service users enough information to access abortion (indirect referral), treating them non-judgmentally, and providing medically correct information. Service users did not experience burdens such as long waiting times and were still able to access legal abortion. However, service users did experience negative emotional effects, as they were often left feeling scared, angry, and hopeless when they were not referred and/or were mistreated.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that conscientious objection could work in practice. However, it is currently failing some individuals on an emotional level, as not all doctors are adhering to guidelines. Conscientious objection in Britain needs to be addressed, to ensure service users receive fair, impartial, non-judgmental care.
Effective communication of COVID-19 vaccine information to recently-arrived culturally and linguistically diverse communities from the perspective of community engagement and partnership organisations: a qualitative study
Authors: Dickson Kara , Aboltins Craig , Pelly Janet , Jessup Rebecca Leigh
Published: August 2023

Background

In many high-income countries, COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities. Barriers to engaging with essential health messaging has contributed to difficulties in following public health advice and exacerbated existing inequity in Australia. Research suggests that recently-arrived CALD populations are particularly vulnerable to misinformation and are more likely to experience vaccine hesitancy. The aim of this study was to explore the barriers and enablers to COVID-19 vaccination among recently-arrived CALD communities in Melbourne’s outer north and identify strategies to reduce hesitancy in this population.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives from community organisations working with recently-arrived CALD communities in Melbourne’s north. This included a mix of peer (from the community) and health care workers.

Results

Fifteen participants from community organisations participated in interviews. Thematic analysis identified four themes; (1) trusted sources, (2) accurate and culturally sensitive information, (3) supported pathways and (4) enablers to vaccination.

Conclusions

Participants reported a perceived lack of accurate, culturally sensitive health information and service provision as key barriers to vaccination in recently-arrived CALD communities. Participants identified a range of perceived enablers to increasing vaccination uptake in the communities they work with, including utilising established channels of communication and harnessing the communities’ strong sense of collective responsibility. Specific strategies to reduce vaccine hesitancy included identifying and utilising trusted sources (e.g. faith leaders) to disseminate information, tailoring health messages to address cultural differences, providing opportunities to contextualise information, and modifying service delivery to enhance cultural sensitivity. There is an urgent need for increased efforts from health and government agencies to build sustainable, collaborative relationships with CALD communities.
Developing a combined framework for priority setting in integrated health and social care systems
Authors: Collins Marissa , Mazzei Micaela , Baker Rachel , Morton Alec , Frith Lucy , Syrett Keith , Leak Paul , Donaldson Cam
Published: August 2023

Background

There is an international move towards greater integration of health and social care to cope with the increasing demand on services.. In Scotland, legislation was passed in 2014 to integrate adult health and social care services resulting in the formation of 31 Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs). Greater integration does not eliminate resource scarcity and the requirement to make (resource) allocation decisions to meet the needs of local populations. There are different perspectives on how to facilitate and improve priority setting in health and social care organisations with limited resources, but structured processes at the local level are still not widely implemented. This paper reports on work with new HSCPs in Scotland to develop a combined multi-disciplinary priority setting and resource allocation framework.

Methods

To develop the combined framework, a scoping review of the literature was conducted to determine the key principles and approaches to priority setting from economics, decision-analysis, ethics and law, and attempts to combine such approaches. Co-production of the combined framework involved a multi-disciplinary workshop including local, and national-level stakeholders and academics to discuss and gather their views.

Results

The key findings from the literature review and the stakeholder workshop were taken to produce a final combined framework for priority setting and resource allocation. This is underpinned by principles from economics (opportunity cost), decision science (good decisions), ethics (justice) and law (fair procedures). It outlines key stages in the priority setting process, including: framing the question, looking at current use of resources, defining options and criteria, evaluating options and criteria, and reviewing each stage. Each of these has further sub-stages and includes a focus on how the combined framework interacts with the consultation and involvement of patients, public and the wider staff.

Conclusions

The integration agenda for health and social care is an opportunity to develop and implement a combined framework for setting priorities and allocating resources fairly to meet the needs of the population. A key aim of both integration and the combined framework is to facilitate the shifting of resources from acute services to the community.
Exosomal miRNA-mediated intercellular communications and immunomodulatory effects in tumor microenvironments
Authors: Nail Howida M. , Chiu Chien-Chih , Leung Chung-Hang , Ahmed Mahmoud M. M. , Wang Hui-Min David
Published: August 2023

Extracellular communication, in other words, crosstalk between cells, has a pivotal role in the survival of an organism. This communication occurs by different methods, one of which is extracellular vesicles. Exosomes, which are small lipid extracellular vesicles, have recently been discovered to have a role in signal transduction between cells inside the body. These vesicles contain important bioactive molecules including lipids, proteins, DNA, mRNA, and noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Exosomes are secreted by all cells including immune cells (macrophages, lymphocytes, granulocytes, dendritic cells, mast cells) and tumor cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a complex network that supports the growth of tumor cells. This microenvironment encompasses tumor cells themselves, the extracellular matrix, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, blood vessels, immune cells, and non-cellular components such as exosomes and cytokines. This review aims to provide insights into the latest discoveries concerning how the immune system communicates internally and with other cell types, with a specific focus on research involving exosomal miRNAs in macrophages, dendritic cells, B lymphocytes, and T lymphocytes. Additionally, we will explore the role of exosomal miRNA in the TME and the immunomodulatory effect.
Emerging environmental health risks associated with the land application of biosolids: a scoping review
Authors: Pozzebon Elizabeth A. , Seifert Lars
Published: August 2023

Background

Over 40% of the six million dry metric tons of sewage sludge, often referred to as biosolids, produced annually in the United States is land applied. Biosolids serve as a sink for emerging pollutants which can be toxic and persist in the environment, yet their fate after land application and their impacts on human health have not been well studied. These gaps in our understanding are exacerbated by the absence of systematic monitoring programs and defined standards for human health protection.

Methods

The purpose of this paper is to call critical attention to the knowledge gaps that currently exist regarding emerging pollutants in biosolids and to underscore the need for evidence-based testing standards and regulatory frameworks for human health protection when biosolids are land applied. A scoping review methodology was used to identify research conducted within the last decade, current regulatory standards, and government publications regarding emerging pollutants in land applied biosolids.

Results

Current research indicates that persistent organic compounds, or emerging pollutants, found in pharmaceuticals and personal care products, microplastics, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have the potential to contaminate ground and surface water, and the uptake of these substances from soil amended by the land application of biosolids can result in contamination of food sources. Advanced technologies to remove these contaminants from wastewater treatment plant influent, effluent, and biosolids destined for land application along with tools to detect and quantify emerging pollutants are critical for human health protection.

Conclusions

To address these current risks, there needs to be a significant investment in ongoing research and infrastructure support for advancements in wastewater treatment; expanded manufacture and use of sustainable products; increased public communication of the risks associated with overuse of pharmaceuticals and plastics; and development and implementation of regulations that are protective of health and the environment.
Determinants of health-related quality of life in people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus, failing first-line treatment in Africa
Authors: Rautenberg Tamlyn A. , Ng Shu Kay , George Gavin , Moosa Mahomed-Yunus S. , McCluskey Suzanne M. , Gilbert Rebecca F. , Pillay Selvan , Aturinda Isaac , Ard Kevin L. , Muyindike Winnie R. , Musinguzi Nicholas , Masette Godfrey , Pillay Melendhran , Moodley Pravi , Brijkumar Jaysingh , Gandhi Rajesh T. , Johnson Brent , Sunpath Henry , Bwana Mwebesa B. , Marconi Vincent C. , Siedner Mark J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Antiretroviral treatment improves health related quality of life (HRQoL) of people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH). However, one third initiating first-line treatment experience virological failure and the determinants of HRQoL in this key population are unknown. Our study aims to identify determinants of among PWH failing antiretroviral treatment in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We analysed data from a cohort of PWH having virological failure (> 1,000 copies/mL) on first-line ART in South Africa and Uganda. We measured HRQoL using the EuroQOL EQ-5D-3L and used a two-part regression model to obtain by-country analyses for South Africa and Uganda. The first part identifies risk factors that were associated with the likelihood of participants reporting perfect health (utility = 1) versus non-perfect health (utility < 1). The second part identifies risk factors that were associated with the EQ-5 L-3L utility scores for participants reporting non-perfect health. We performed sensitivity analyses to compare the results between the two-part model using tobit models and ordinary least squares regression.

Results

In both countries, males were more likely to report perfect health and participants with at least one comorbidity were less likely to report perfect health. In South Africa, participants with side effects and in Uganda those with opportunistic infections were also less likely to report perfect health. In Uganda, participants with 100% ART adherence were more likely to report perfect health. In South Africa, high HIV viral load, experiencing ART side effects, and the presence of opportunistic infections were each associated with lower HRQoL, whereas participants with 100% ART adherence reported higher HRQoL. In Uganda participants with lower CD4 count had lower HRQoL.

Conclusion

Markers of advanced disease (opportunistic infection, high viral load, low CD4), side effects, comorbidities and lack of ART adherence negatively impacted HRQoL for PWH experiencing virological failure.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02787499.
Validity and reliability of the Dutch translation of the OPUS’ client satisfaction with device module in chronic users of hand orthoses
Authors: Oud Tanja , Tuijtelaars Jana , Schenk Jimmy , Nollet Frans , Brehm Merel-Anne
Published: August 2023

Background

Orthosis satisfaction is an important outcome in assessing quality of care. However, no measurement specifically assessing orthosis satisfaction is available in the Dutch language. Therefore, the aim of this study was to translate the Client Satisfaction with Device (CSD) module of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Users’ Survey (OPUS) into Dutch, and to assess its content validity, structural validity and reliability in persons with chronic hand conditions.

Methods

The CSD was translated and cross-cultural adapted according to respective guidelines. To determine content validity, 10 chronic hand orthotic users and two professionals judged the relevance, comprehensibility, and comprehensiveness of the Dutch CSD (D-CSD). Thereafter, in a cross-sectional study, 76 persons were asked to complete the D-CSD twice, with a 2-week interval. Dimensionality of the D-CSD was examined by principal component analysis (PCA), and factor model fit was assessed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Reliability was assessed as internal consistency and test-retest reliability, including the 95% limits of agreement (LoA), the standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change (SDC).

Results

The D-CSD items and response options were deemed relevant and comprehensible. After adding an item on cleaning the orthosis, content validity was judged sufficient. PCA indicated a one-factor model, which was confirmed by CFA. We found good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.82; 95%CI 0.75–0.87), and moderate to good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.81; 95%CI 0.71–0.87). There was no difference between the mean D-CSD score at test (26.8 points) and retest (25.9 points) (mean (SD) difference: 0.86 points (4.00); 95%CI -0.06-1.79; p = 0.07). The 95% LoA were −6.99 to 8.71, and the SEM and SDC were 2.88 and 7.98 points, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on sufficient content and structural validity, and good reliability, we consider the D-CSD a useful tool to evaluate orthosis satisfaction in persons with chronic hand conditions on group level. Because of a relatively high SDC, sensitivity to detect changes over time on individual level is limited.

Study registration number

NCT05320211.
Doctors’ alertness, contentedness and calmness before and after night shifts: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Debets Maarten P. M. , Tummers Fokkedien H. M. P. , Silkens Milou E. W. M. , Huizinga Coen R. H. , Lombarts Kiki M. J. M. H. , van der Bogt Koen E. A.
Published: August 2023

Background

While night shifts are crucial for patient care, they threaten doctors’ well-being and performance. Knowledge of how the impact of night shifts differs for doctors is needed to attenuate the adverse effects of night shifts. This study aimed to obtain more precise insight into doctors’ feelings surrounding night shift by: identifying profiles based on doctors’ alertness, contentedness and calmness scores before and after night shifts (research question (RQ) 1); assessing how doctors’ pre- and post-shift profiles change (RQ2); and determining associations of doctors’ demographics and shift circumstances with alertness, contentedness and calmness change (RQ3).

Methods

Latent Profile Analysis using doctors’ pre- and post-shift self-rated alertness, contentedness and calmness scores was employed to identify pre- and post-shift profiles (RQ1). A cross-tabulation revealed pre- and post-shift profile changes (RQ2). Multiple regressions determined associations of demographics (i.e. age, sex, specialty) and night shift circumstances (i.e. hours worked pre-call, hours awake pre-call, shift duration, number of consecutive shifts, total hours of sleep) with alertness, contentedness and calmness change (RQ3).

Results

In total, 211 doctors participated with a mean age of 39.8 ± 10 years; 47.4% was male. The participants included consultants (46.4%) and trainees (53.6%) of the specialties surgery (64.5%) and obstetrics/gynaecology (35.5%). Three pre-shift (Indifferent, Ready, Engaged) and four post-shift profiles (Lethargic, Tired but satisfied, Excited, Mindful) were found. Most doctors changed from Ready to Tired but satisfied, with alertness reducing most. Age, specialty, sleep, shift duration and the number of consecutive shifts associated with alertness, contentedness and calmness changes.

Conclusions

The results provided nuanced insight into doctors’ feelings before and after night shifts. Future research may assess whether specific subgroups benefit from tailored interventions.
Microscopic feature of lymph node anthracosilicosis adherent with pulmonary artery: a case report
Authors: Murakami Junichi , Tanaka Toshiki , Hoshii Yoshinobu , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: August 2023

Background

Although thoracic surgeons occasionally encounter dense adhesions of interlobar lymph node anthracosilicosis with the pulmonary artery, adhesiolysis may be challenging. Besides, characteristic microscopic features of the adherent lesion remain limited.

Case presentation

During a thoracoscopic right upper lobectomy of a patient with stage IA3 primary lung adenocarcinoma, several interlobar lymph nodes adhered to the posterior ascending branch of the pulmonary artery to the right upper lobe were noted. After an unplanned conversion to a thoracotomy to avoid massive bleeding, the pulmonary artery branch was safely isolated. Microscopic examination revealed lymph node anthracosilicosis proximal to the peripheral pulmonary artery wall, with granulomatous inflammation. The adventitial stroma of the pulmonary artery developed into dense and borderless fibrous tissue with dust-laden macrophages.

Conclusions

Our pathological findings on lymph node anthracosilicosis provide substantial evidence that adhesions between lymph nodes and the pulmonary artery walls may develop into dense and borderless fibrous tissue. This finding would remind thoracic surgeons that adhesiolysis could cause injury to the pulmonary artery.
Inhibitory insula-ACC projections modulate affective but not sensory aspects of neuropathic pain
Authors: Alonso-Matielo Heloísa , Zhang Zizhen , Gambeta Eder , Huang Junting , Chen Lina , de Melo Gabriel Oliveira , Dale Camila Squarzoni , Zamponi Gerald W.
Published: August 2023

The insula and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) are brain regions that undergo structural and functional reorganization in neuropathic pain states. Here, we aimed to study inhibitory parvalbumin positive (PV+) posterior insula (pIC) to posterior ACC (pACC) projections, and to evaluate the effects of direct optogenetic manipulation of such projections on mechanical nociception and spontaneous ongoing pain in mice with Spared Nerve Injury (SNI). CTB488 tract-tracing in male PVCrexAi9 mice revealed a small proportion of PV+ projections from the pIC to the pACC. Electrophysiological analysis confirmed the existence of synaptic inputs into the pACC by pIC GABAergic cells. Optogenetic stimulation of these pathways did not change mechanical nociception, but induced conditioned place preference behavior responses. Our results suggest the presence of inhibitory projections between the pIC and the pACC which are able to selectively modulate affective aspects of neuropathic pain.
Foot health and quality of life in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Veiga‐Seijo Raquel , Pertega‐Diaz Sonia , Perez‐Lopez Maria Eva , Martinez Lourdes Calvo , Novoa Silvia Antolin , Gonzalez‐Martin Cristina
Published: August 2023

Background

Chemotherapy is one of the most widely used therapies for breast cancer, triggering important repercussions on people's quality of life. However, little research has been undertaken about podiatric adverse effects. This study aimed was to determine the prevalence of podiatric pathology developed in people with breast cancer who receive chemotherapy.

Methods

Observational, descriptive, and cross‐sectional study was conducted in the Oncology service of the A Coruña University Hospital (northwest Spain). People with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatment of legal age (≥ 18), who signed the informed consent (n = 117) were included. Sociodemographic, comorbidity, disease and foot health variables, as well as two self‐administered questionnaires (Foot Health Status Questionnaire and Foot Function Index) were studied. The current ethical‐legal aspects were followed.

Results

Foot health problems were highly prevalent, highlighting nail color changes (59.8%), onychocryptosis (39.7%), xerosis (62.4%), plantar fasciitis (12.8%), and neuropathic symptoms (75.2%). Some foot pain was presented in 77.8% of the sample, predominantly at nail level (15.4%) or sole of the foot and nail (14.5%). Most participants described their foot health as fair or poor (56.4%) and felt limited in walking (65.8%). The lowest score for the Foot Health Status Questionnaire was footwear (30.6(33.5)).

Conclusions

Foot health adverse effects represent worrisome problems in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy, due to their high prevalence and negative implications on quality of life. These problems are critical as they may have implications for stopping or reducing chemotherapy. All these results call for the development of more research to contribute to the care and wellbeing of people with cancer who receive treatments such as chemotherapy. Thus, this line of research is a new path to be developed by the podiatry community.
Effects of larval exposure to sublethal doses of ivermectin on adult fitness and susceptibility to ivermectin in Anopheles gambiae s.s.
Authors: Kiuru Caroline , Ominde Kelly , Muturi Martha , Babu Lawrence , Wanjiku Caroline , Chaccour Carlos , Maia Marta Ferreira
Published: August 2023

Background

The effects of ivermectin (endectocide) on mosquito survival make it a potential new malaria vector control tool. The drug can be administered to mosquito disease vectors through blood hosts that include humans and livestock. Its increased use may cause contamination of larval habitats, either directly through livestock excreta or indirectly through leaching or run-off from contaminated soil, albeit in sublethal doses. However, the effects of such exposure on immature stages and the subsequent adults that emerge are poorly understood. This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of ivermectin exposure on Anopheles gambiae s.s. larvae and its effects on fitness and susceptibility to ivermectin in the emerging adults.

Methods

Laboratory-reared An. gambiae s.s. (Kilifi strain) larvae were exposed to five different ivermectin concentrations; 0, 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, and 0.01 ppm, and larval survival was monitored to determine the appropriate sub-lethal dose. Concentrations with survival > 50% (0.00001 and 0.0001 ppm) were selected and used as the sub-lethal doses. The fecundity, fertility, and susceptibility to ivermectin of adults emerging after larval exposure to the sub-lethal doses were examined.

Results

Overall, exposure of An. gambiae s.s. aquatic stages to ivermectin caused a dose-dependent reduction in larval survival irrespective of the stage at which the larvae were exposed. Exposure to ivermectin in the larval stage did not have an effect on either the number of eggs laid or the hatch rate. However, exposure of first/second-instar larvae to 0.0001 ppm and third/fourth-instar larvae to 0.001 ppm of ivermectin reduced the time taken to oviposition. Additionally, exposure to ivermectin in the larval stage did not affect susceptibility of the emerging adults to the drug.

Conclusions

This study shows that contamination of larval habitats with ivermectin affects An. gambiae s.s. larval survival and could potentially have an impact on public health. However, there are no carry-over effects on the fecundity, fertility, and susceptibility of the emerging adults to ivermectin. In addition, this study shows that environmental exposure to ivermectin in the larval habitats is unlikely to compromise the efficacy of ivermectin in the emerging adults.

Graphical Abstract
Development and validation of a stability indicating green analytical method for the simultaneous estimation of l-glutathione, n-acetyl l-cysteine and Vitamin C in marketed formulation using UV–visible spectroscopy
Authors: Chaudhry Himanshu , Rangra Naresh Kumar
Published: August 2023

Background

An efficient ultraviolet spectrophotometric method has been devised for the simultaneous analysis of l-glutathione, n-acetyl l-cysteine and Vitamin C in combined tablet dosage forms. This method is characterized by its simplicity, rapidity, precision, accuracy and cost-effectiveness. It employs the simultaneous equation method to determine the concentrations of l-glutathione, n-acetyl l-cysteine and Vitamin C.

Results

The concentration range of 50–250 μg/mL for l-glutathione, 15–75 μg/mL for n-acetyl l-cysteine and 2–10 μg/mL for Vitamin C demonstrated linearity in this study. The simultaneous equation method was employed to determine the drug concentrations. The average recovery rates were found to be 99.94 ± 0.61% for l-glutathione, 100.90 ± 0.96 for n-acetyl l-cysteine and 99.81 ± 0.58% for Vitamin C. Stability studies were performed under various stress conditions.

Conclusion

The method employed in this study was observed to possess qualities of simplicity, accuracy and precision, making it suitable for the simultaneous determination of l-glutathione, n-acetyl l-cysteine and Vitamin C in pharmaceutical tablet dosage forms. The analysis results were statistically validated and supported by recovery studies and stability studies, further enhancing the credibility of the method.
Screening for depressive illness in adult populations
Authors: Doherty Anne M.
Published: August 2023

Depression is a major cause of disability worldwide. Screening in at-risk populations is important in identifying those at most need of treatment. Pengpid et al report on high rates of incident and persistent symptoms of depression identified in an epidemiological study in a Thai population and their association with physical comorbidities. However, there are limitations to screening, due to both resource implications and the risk of diagnostic overshadowing. Although screening is useful in providing an overview of the prevalence of depressive symptoms from an epidemiological perspective, there may be justified concerns in translating this approach to clinical settings. This is especially true where the resources to provide further comprehensive assessment and treatment may be inadequate. Clinically there is a need to consider a more complete approach to screening that utilises screening tools embedded in a wider diagnostic approach which allows the detection and management of other confounding conditions.
Too Thick Love, or Bearing the Unbearable
Authors: Bradley Rizvana
Published: August 2023

This chapter begins by thinking with Toni Morrison's novel Beloved and her notion of a “too thick” love. Too thick feeling is a racially gendered problem for affect theory, one that not only exposes the latter's residual humanisms but that opens onto the possibility of thinking with the minor affective registers of Black existence. Highlighting the conjunction between Black critiques of humanism and those repertoires of wayward feeling that subtend Black existence, this chapter argues that too thick feeling moves us through the undertheorized racially gendered declensions and transfigurations within registers of feeling such as slowness, exhaustion, bitterness, and perseverance. Moving between Beloved and Charles Burnett's 1978 film Killer of Sheep, the chapter suggests that this indeterminate genre of feeling emerges precisely through its immanent exposure to and subjection before an anti-Black world that demands but cannot abide its intelligibility.
Algorithmic Trauma
Authors: Richardson Michael
Published: August 2023

This chapter argues that algorithmic trauma fragments and disrupts experience, not only for the bodies subject to it but for the technical system through which trauma is (re)produced. Algorithmic trauma manifests ruptures of time, space, and knowability via processes of mediation that move through and between the corporeal, technological, cultural, and political. Algorithmic trauma encompasses traumas transmitted through algorithmic systems, traumas produced by algorithmic systems, and most provocatively, traumas occurring within algorithmic systems. Although time, space, and (un)knowability all figure in these three modalities of algorithmic trauma, the cases chosen to illustrate each also serve to highlight a distinct site of rupturing: temporality in traumas distributed through algorithms in the live streaming of atrocity, spatiality in traumas produced by algorithmic systems in remote warfare, and (un)knowability in traumas machine learning and artificial intelligence composed of neural networks.
Coda
Authors: Stewart Kathleen , Berlant Lauren
Published: August 2023

This coda begins with a note from Katie Stewart concerning the nature of Lauren Berlant's writings before her/their death. Then the prose poems follow that Berlant wrote during cancer treatment and during the time of the pandemic. These poems, written in multiples of one hundred words, relay Berlant's day-to-day experiences in diary-like format albeit with the characteristic insights and turns of phrase that illuminate the ways that affect shapes encounters and episodes within and beyond the ordinary.
Using variable selection methods in network meta-analysis
Authors: Σεϊτίδης Γεώργιος
Published: August 2023

Η συγκεκριμένη διατριβή στοχεύει στην αντιμετώπιση δύο συχνών προβλημάτων που συναντώνται στην μετα-ανάλυση δικτύου, την αξιολόγηση της υπόθεσης της συνέπειας και τον χειρισμό παρεμβάσεων πολλών συνιστωσών. Η αξιολόγηση της υπόθεσης της συνέπειας είναι κομβικής σημασίας, καθώς η αξιοπιστία των αποτελεσμάτων της μετα-ανάλυσης δικτύου εξαρτάται σε μεγάλο βαθμό από αυτή την υπόθεση. Μεγάλες διαφορές μεταξύ άμεσης και έμμεσης πληροφορίας μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε μεροληπτικά αποτελέσματα. Στην διατριβή αρχικά γίνεται μια ανασκόπηση της μετα-ανάλυσης και της μετα-ανάλυσης δικτύου, καθώς και των συχνών μεθόδων που χρησιμοποιούνται για την αξιολόγηση της υπόθεσης της συνέπειας. Έπειτα παρουσιάζεται μια καινοτόμα μέθοδος για την εύρεση ασυνεπειών στο δίκτυο, η οποία έχει την δυνατότητα να ανιχνεύει τοπικά που υπάρχουν ασυνέπειες και να αξιολογεί γενικά το δίκτυο αν πληρεί την υπόθεση της συνέπειας. Αυτό επιτυγχάνεται αντιμετωπίζοντας το μοντέλο της μετα-ανάλυσης δικτύου ως ένα μοντέλο παλινδρόμησης και χρησιμοποιώντας την μέθοδο στοχαστικής αναζήτησης επιλογής μεταβλητών. Σημαντικά πλεονεκτήματα που προσφέρει η προτεινόμενη μέθοδος είναι η δυνατότητα εύρεσης ασυνεπειών χρησιμοποιώντας εξωτερική πληροφορία, και η εύρεση ασυνεπειών βάσει διαφορών που θεωρούνται πρακτικά σημαντικές. Η προτεινόμενη μέθοδος αξιολογήθηκε σε δύο δημοσιευμένα δίκτυα μετα-ανάλυσης υπό διάφορα σενάρια. Επιπρόσθετα, για την εύκολη χρήση της μεθόδου, κατασκευάστηκε το στατιστικό πακέτο ssifs, το οποίο είναι δημοσιευμένο στο CRAN. Αναφορικά με τον χειρισμό παρεμβάσεων πολλών συνιστωσών, προτείνονται νέοι τρόποι οπτικοποίησης των αποτελεσμάτων της μετα-ανάλυσης δικτύου, οι οποίοι επιτρέπουν την εύκολη εύρεση των πιο αποτελεσματικών συνιστωσών, την διερεύνηση του δικτύου και της συμπεριφοράς των συνιστωσών. Για την εύκολη χρήση των προτεινόμενων εργαλείων οπτικοποίησης των αποτελεσμάτων της μετα-ανάλυσης δικτύου, κατασκευάστηκε το στατιστικό πακέτο viscomp, το οποίο είναι δημοσιευμένο στο CRAN. Τέλος παρατίθενται ορισμένες καταληκτικές παρατηρήσεις και προτάσεις για μελλοντική έρευνα.
What is wrong with conspiracy beliefs?
Authors: Alper Sinan , Yilmaz Onurcan
Published: August 2023

The majority of psychological research highlights the role of lapses in rational thinking as a significant contributing factor to conspiracy beliefs (CBs). However, historical examples demonstrate that not all CBs are inherently incorrect. In this paper, we propose a more nuanced approach, suggesting that instead of universally labelling CBs as false or adopting an agnostic stance towards their veracity, it is beneficial to assess the plausibility of each CB individually along a continuum. To achieve this, we recommend utilizing two key indicators: (1) the prior probability of a specific conspiracy theory being true, considered independently of any supporting or contradicting evidence, and (2) the extent to which proponents of a CB demonstrate actively open-minded thinking. We delve into the rationale behind employing such a nuanced approach to evaluating CB plausibility and present several strategies for calculating and integrating plausibility ratings within conspiracy research. Consistent with our proposed framework, we argue that conspiracy researchers possess both the capability and responsibility to differentiate certain CBs as comparatively more irrational than others, provided that such differentiation is based on principled and probabilistic grounds.
Primeiros registros das espécies asiáticas Oxidus gracilis (C.L. Koch), Orthomorpha coarctata (Saussure) (Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae) e Trigoniulus corallinus (Gervais) (Spirobolida, Trigoniulidae) para o Maranhão
Authors: Lino Gelvane , Marques Maria Gabrielle , Bouzan Rodrigo Salvador , Brescovit Antonio Domingos , Iniesta Luiz Felipe Moretti
Published: August 2023

A classe Diplopoda corresponde a cerca de 12.000 espécies nominais. Indivíduos desta classe estão associados a quase todos os estratos do solo, contribuindo de maneira eficiente para a ciclagem de nutrientes. Algumas espécies são consideradas pragas agrícolas, amplamente distribuídas atráves de atividades humanas. No Brasil, são conhecidas 12 espécies introduzidas, com grande parte dessas originarias da Ásia e difundidas principalmente na região sudeste do país. Dentre essas, destacam-se Oxidus gracilis (C.L. Koch) e Orthomorpha coarctata (Saussure) (Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae), registradas para quase todas as regiões do Brasil, e Trigoniulus corallinus (Gervais) (Spirobolida, Pachybolidae), de ocorrência para o Norte, Nordeste e Sudeste. No entanto, mesmo essas sendo amplamente distribuídas, nenhuma tem registro até o momento para o estado do Maranhão. Nesta perspectiva, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo registrar pela primeira vez no estado do Maranhão a ocorrência destas espécies a partir de coletas em áreas urbanas do município de Códo, região ao leste do estado, durante os meses de janeiro e fevereiro de 2023. De modo geral, os indivíduos foram encontrados enterrados em camadas mais superficiais do solo ou associados a poças de água próximas da serrapilheira. A região apresenta grande diversidade vegetal, mas sem nenhuma unidade de conservação formulada até o momento, além de sofrer atualmente com o avanço de atividades extrativistas e de Silvicultura, podendo acarretar a perda da diversidade biológica em áreas ainda quase que inexploradas em relação a fauna.
Influence of obesity and other metabolic disorders on rosacea
Authors: Fularska Kamila , Kuźniar Aleksandra , Szawica Dominik , Wąsiewicz Edward , Oleszko Michał , Sobczak Fryderyk , Bernacki Radosław , Bernacki Piotr , Dutka Martyna , Zardzewiały Witold
Published: August 2023

Introduction:Rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory disease, characterized by skin lesions or ocular symptoms. Skin lesions are located primarily on the central face. Thickening of the skin can occur in some people. There are four subtypes of rosacea and one variant. Rosacea significantly impairs the quality of life. The exact cause of rosacea is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Treatment starts with avoidance of triggering factors. Obesity leads to multiple negative health effects. It has been associated with some inflammatory dermatoses, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.As obesity disrupt cutaneous vasculature and temperature regulation, it may be also associated with increased risk for rosacea and worse course of this disease.

 Aim of study:The purpose of the study was to review the literature on the influence of  obesity and other metabolic disorders on development of rosacea.

Matherials and methods:A systemic review was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar databases. The search strategy was based on following terms: rosacea, BMI, obesity, overweight, metabolic changes, insulin resistance and rosacea

Results and Conclusions:The complex relationship between obesity and other metabolic disorders and rosacea goes beyond obvious binary relationships. Chronic inflammation, genetic predisposition, common risk factors, and changes in metabolic and vascular function contribute to their complex interaction.Recognition and understanding of this relationship offers the potential for the development of new treatment strategies in the future that will prevent the occurrence of rosacea by modifying i.a. the risk factors we describe before they affect the patient's health and cause the disease described. Future research should continue to explore the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic interventions
Photoprotection behaviors among patients during retinoid therapy
Authors: Czechowska Julia , Bronst Paulina , Szabrańska Anna , Laskowski Jakub , Kister Klaudia , Rosa Lidia , Zach-Źródlak Monika , Małolepsza Aleksandra , Rektor Natalia , Mazur Magdalena
Published: August 2023

Aim: The aim of the study was to examine patients on dermatology retinoid treatment attitudes related to skin protection against UV radiation and to check the hypothesis whether patients using retinoids are more aware of the need for photoprotection.
 
Material and methods: Internet-based survey about attitudes associated with sun exposure and photoprotection was carried out between March and May 2023. 176 questionnaires were subject to statistical analysis.
 
Results: The study showed that 73% of the responders used an SPF cream every day. Only 3,8 % didn’t use a UV protection cream. 38% used it on all the exposed body parts. 21% used it only on their face and necks and 10% used it only on their face. As many as 78% of respondents used a cream with protection SPF 50 or more. 40% of patients reapply SPF. Most of the patients use additional tools such as sunglasses, hats and caps. But only 16% use specialized UPF clothing. 
 
Conclusion: Patients during their retinoid treatment show increased knowledge and attitude towards photoprotection. They are aware of the risks due to sensitization of their therapy and are trying to mitigate the negative effects of the UV radiation.
Asymptotically Optimal Sampling Policy for Selecting Top-m Alternatives
Authors: Zhang Gongbo , Peng Yijie , Zhang Jianghua , Zhou Enlu
Published: August 2023

We consider selecting the top-m alternatives from a finite number of alternatives via Monte Carlo simulation. Under a Bayesian framework, we formulate the sampling decision as a stochastic dynamic programming problem and develop a sequential sampling policy that maximizes a value function approximation one-step look ahead. To show the asymptotic optimality of the proposed procedure, the asymptotically optimal sampling ratios that optimize the large deviations rate of the probability of false selection for selecting the top-m alternatives have been rigorously defined. The proposed sampling policy is not only proved to be consistent but also achieve the asymptotically optimal sampling ratios. Numerical experiments demonstrate superiority of the proposed allocation procedure over existing ones.

History: Accepted by Bruno Tuffin, Area Editor for Simulation.

Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72250065, 72293582, 72022001, and 71901003], and the National Science Foundation [Grant DMS-2053489], the major project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 72293582], and the China Scholarship Council [Grant CSC202206010152].

Supplemental Material: The software that supports the findings of this study is available within the paper and its Supplemental Information ( https://pubsonline.informs.org/doi/suppl/10.1287/ijoc.2021.0333 ) as well as from the IJOC GitHub software repository ( https://github.com/INFORMSJoC/2021.0333 ). The complete IJOC Software and Data Repository is available at https://informsjoc.github.io/ .
Resource Allocation Capability and Routines in Multibusiness Firms
Authors: Helfat Constance E. , Maritan Catherine A.
Published: August 2023

Research suggests that multibusiness firms often misallocate financial resources. However, research also suggests that firms differ in how effectively they allocate a range of resources. We argue that some firms have a resource allocation capability that enables them to more effectively determine the allocation of resources than often portrayed in the literature. We identify key search and selection routines that form the building blocks of a resource allocation capability and explain how these routines facilitate critical activities at different levels of the management hierarchy that are involved in the determination of resource allocations, including for related and vertically linked businesses. We further explain how a resource allocation capability, and the routines that make up the capability, help firms allocate resources effectively to meet their strategic and financial objectives. Part of the improved effectiveness of resource allocation arises because the routines help to mitigate the factors that prior research has identified as leading to resource misallocation, namely information asymmetry and distortion, internal politics, and cognitive biases and backward-looking aspirations. Finally, we move beyond research on whether firms effectively allocate resources to explain why resource allocation capabilities are likely be heterogeneous among firms due to differences in their routines and the ways that firms structure their use of routines. This heterogeneity stems in part from tradeoffs that firms face when choosing among resource allocation routines. As a result, firms are likely to vary in how effectively they allocate resources, leading to heterogeneity in firm adaptation and change and ultimately in firm performance.
A case of liquorice-infused marijuana causing syndrome of apparent mineralocorticoid excess
Authors: Latif Asnia , Naqi Muniba , McAnally James F.
Published: August 2023

Marijuana has long been used both for recreational and medicinal purposes. Most of the available forms of marijuana contain additives such as liquorice to enhance its flavour. Liquorice increases the amounts of cortisol in the body and produces metabolic abnormalities seen in primary hyperaldosteronism. Liquorice extracts are mixed with marijuana in the same way as for tobacco. We describe a case of apparent mineralocorticoid excess due to excessive smoking of liquorice-laced marijuana. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of apparent mineralocorticoid excess caused by marijuana use.
Yo mejor me quedo en casa
Authors: Aguilera-Miller Eduardo Felipe
Published: August 2023

Al paso de los siglos, nos han surgido múltiples interrogantes sobre la naturaleza. El comportamiento de los seres vivos ha acaparado nuestra curiosidad.
¿Cómo consigo pareja si no se queda quieta?
Authors: Ortíz Zárate Ricardo J.
Published: August 2023

La reproducción es fundamental para que los genes de los individuos persistan mediante sus descendientes. El éxito reproductivo depende de la localización y elección de la pareja, entre otras conductas. Sin embargo, el reto se complica si hay competencia entre machos mientras las hembras se desplazan.
A presença da clínica fenomenológico-existencial no pensamento do jovem Michel Foucault
Authors: Pegden Raphael
Published: August 2023

Pretendemos no presente artigo analisar a introdução escrita por Michel Foucault para a tradução da edição francesa do artigo Sonho e existência escrito pelo psiquiatra suíço Ludwig Binswanger. Ao longo deste estudo, pretendemos destacar a originalidade da interpretação foucaultiana e levantar breves reflexões sobre a posição da filosofia fenomenológica no desenvolvimento filosófico de Michel Foucault.