bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between indexed surgery and postcardiotomy extracorporeal life support outcomes
Authors: Hohri Yu , Zhao Yanling , Takayama Hiroo , Vinogradsky Alice V , Kurlansky Paul , Fried Justin , Takeda Koji
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (V-A ECLS) is increasingly being utilized for postcardiotomy shock (PCS), though data describing the relationship between type of indexed operation and outcomes are limited. This study compared V-A ECLS outcomes across four major cardiovascular surgical procedures.

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective study of patients who required V-A ECLS for PCS between 2015 and 2022. Patients were stratified by the type of indexed operation, which included aortic surgery (AoS), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve surgery (Valve), and combined CABG and valve surgery (CABG + Valve). Factors associated with postoperative outcomes were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

Among 149 PCS patients who received V-A ECLS, there were 35 AoS patients (23.5%), 29 (19.5%) CABG patients, 59 (39.6%) Valve patients, and 26 (17.4%) CABG + Valve patients. Cardiopulmonary bypass times were longest in the AoS group ( p < 0.01). Regarding causes of PCS, AoS patients had a greater incidence of ventricular failure, while the CABG group had a higher incidence of ventricular arrhythmia ( p = 0.04). Left ventricular venting was most frequently utilized in the Valve group ( p = 0.07). In-hospital mortality was worst among CABG + Valve patients ( p < 0.01), and the incidence of acute kidney injury was highest in the AoS group ( p = 0.03). In multivariable logistic regression, CABG + Valve surgery (odds ratio (OR) 4.20, 95% confidence interval 1.30–13.6, p = 0.02) and lactate level at ECLS initiation (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.06-1.29; p < 0.01) were independently associated with mortality.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that indications, management, and outcomes of V-A ECLS for PCS vary by type of indexed cardiovascular surgery.
Isolated ipsilateral ptosis associated with ventral midbrain infarction: a case report and literature review
Authors: Cai Xiao-Feng , Shi Tian-Ming , Wu Qi-Bing , Guo Shun-Yuan
Published: August 2024

Documented cases of ipsilateral ptosis caused by midbrain infarction remain rare. Herein, we present a patient with isolated ipsilateral ptosis that was initially considered to be a consequence of myasthenia gravis but was subsequently attributed to ventral midbrain infarction. We also discuss the possible underlying mechanisms; ipsilateral ptosis in our patient was attributed to selective damage of the levator palpebral muscle branch of the oculomotor nerve. The patient was started on aspirin (200 mg once daily) and atorvastatin (40 mg once daily). Improvement in ptosis occurred from day 5 of admission, and the patient was subsequently discharged. Ptosis disappeared 1 month after onset. This report describes an extremely rare case of ventral midbrain infarction presenting with isolated ipsilateral ptosis. Careful examination, including magnetic resonance imaging, is essential in such patients, especially in those with multiple cerebrovascular risk factors.
Hypomethylated leptin receptor reduces cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury by activating the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Xuelou , Wang Zhen , Liu Sha , Feng Yu , Zhang Tingbao , Wu Zhongxiang , Huang Junjie , Zhao Wenyuan
Published: August 2024

Objective

To investigate the cerebroprotective effects of leptin in vitro and in vivo via the Janus kinase-2 (JAK2)/transcription factor signal transducer and activators of transcription-3 (STAT3) pathway and leptin receptors (LEPR).

Methods

The study used the cellular oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) model in PC12 cells and the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model of cerebral ischaemia–reperfusion injury (CIRI) to assess changes in gene expression and protein levels following leptin pretreatment. The methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) assay measured DNA methylation levels.

Results

The optimal leptin concentration for exerting neuroprotective effects against ischaemia–reperfusion injury in PC12 cells was 200 ng/ml in vitro, but excessive leptin diminished this effect. Leptin pretreatment in the MCAO rat model demonstrated a similar effect to previously reported leptin administration post-CIRI. In addition to regulating the expression of inflammation-related cytokines, Western blot analysis showed that leptin pretreatment upregulated BCL-2 and downregulated caspase 3 levels. The MeDIP analysis demonstrated that DNA methylation regulated LEPR gene expression in the MCAO rat model when leptin pretreatment was used.

Conclusion

Exogenous leptin might bind to extra-activated LEPR by reducing the methylation level of the LEPR gene promoter region, which leads to an increase in phosphorylated JAK2/STAT3 and apoptotic signalling pathways.
Clinical and laboratory characteristics and outcome predictors of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in a referral neurology hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Moniruzzaman Md. , Been Sayeed S K Jakaria , Das Subir Chandra , Mostafa Md. Golam , Rashid Md. Bazlur , Mahmud Reaz , Akhter Muntrasina , Mehzabin Refat , Hossain Sk. Md. Rubaed , Rahman Md. Mujibur
Published: August 2024

Objective

We aimed to describe clinical and laboratory characteristics and determine the predictors of outcome in patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted over 2 years among hospitalized patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. Patient outcome was assessed using the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months. Outcome predictors were identified using logistic regression analysis.

Results

Eighty-one patients were included in this study. The median mRS outcome at 3 months was 1 (interquartile range 1–3). Poor outcomes were observed in 27.2% of patients, and the mortality rate was 9.8%. Factors associated with poor outcomes were age >60 years (relative risk [RR] 5.1), hemiparesis (RR 5.4), altered level of consciousness (RR 7.1), and transverse sinus involvement (RR 1.1). In general, mRS scores were not associated with D-dimer levels (RR 2.4). However, older patients with elevated D-dimer levels showed a significant association with poor outcomes (1.6) according to mRS scores.

Conclusion

Older age, hemiparesis, and altered consciousness levels were independent predictors of poor outcomes in patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. High D-dimer level showed no association with functional disability, except in older patients.
Myeloid sarcoma in JAK2-positive myelodysplastic neoplasms with fibrosis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Bai Jiaofeng , Wang Xuan , Zheng Ruirui , He Miao , Zhang Yuexia , Zhang Zhichen , Yang Xiaolan , Pan Yaozhu
Published: August 2024

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) occurs in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In rare cases, MS can represent a form of blast transformation in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS), or MDS/MPN. The most frequent chromosomal alterations in MS are t(8;21) or inv(16), with other alterations being reported. Cases of MS in Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-positive MDS with fibrosis are exceedingly rare. Here, we describe such a case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a JAK2 V617F mutation-positive MDS case occurring concurrently with MS involving the posterior aspect of the left seventh rib. No clear association has been previously demonstrated between the intramedullary AML cytogenetics and extramedullary disease occurrence. Interestingly, samples from the intramedullary MDS and extramedullary mass in this patient presented the same JAK2 V617F mutation. Following a treatment regimen of azacitidine and venetoclax, the patient achieved complete remission. The chest CT scan showed that the seventh posterior rib mass disappeared. This case provides valuable information for the potential future treatment of this disease.
Persistent Challenges of Micronutrient Deficiencies in Latin America Need Action
Authors: Fernández-Gaxiola A. C. , García-Guerra A. , Neufeld L. M.
Published: August 2024

Micronutrient deficiencies affect growth and development and are critical for maintaining health at all ages. Their critical role in exacerbating complications of infections and chronic diseases continues to impact morbidity, mortality, and quality of life for many. Raising awareness and advocating for micronutrient deficiencies in Latin America is urgent to reduce this preventable burden. Globally, an estimated 372 million preschool-aged children and 1.2 billion non-pregnant women of reproductive age suffer deficiency from 1 or more micronutrient. Data is limited and often old, and the true burden of problem in the region remains unclear. There are also limited data on dietary intake and on the double burden of malnutrition. Latin America has been a leader in the design and implementation of innovative and effective actions to reduce excess energy intake and curb the consumption of unhealthy Actions to address deficiency have been implemented in many countries in the region over the years, but current evidence suggests that micronutrient deficiencies have fallen off the public health agenda in Latin America. Effective programming can be developed / appropriately adapted only with knowledge of the current burden. Such data can also help guide and predict future areas of risk and priorities to missing upcoming nutrition issues in the population. Renewed commitment to quantify and monitor micronutrient deficiencies in the region is essential. Abundant evidence and guidance exist to inform effective program selection, design and implementation to address this public health problem.
Fatigue by the Chalder Questionnaire and post-hemodialysis recovery in a population of predominantly African descent: The PROHEMO
Authors: Gutiérrez-Peredo Gabriel Brayan , Silva Martins Márcia Tereza , da Silva Fernanda Albuquerque , Lopes Marcelo Barreto , Lopes Gildete Barreto , James Sherman A , Norris Keith C , Lopes Antonio Alberto
Published: August 2024

Background/objective:

A high prevalence of fatigue and a positive association between fatigue and post-hemodialysis recovery have been reported in predominantly white populations of maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. The present study evaluates associations between self-reported fatigue by the 11-item Chalder Fatigue Questionnaire (CFQ-11) and the need for post-hemodialysis recovery in a predominantly African-descent MHD population.

Methods:

A total of 233 patients (94% Black or Mixed-Race) participating in the “Prospective Study of the Prognosis of Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis” (PROHEMO), Salvador, Brazil were recruited for this cross-sectional study. The CFQ-11 was used to measure fatigue: <4 for absent or mild, ⩾4 for moderate to severe. Patients were also asked if they needed some time to recover after the hemodialysis. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratio (OR) of the association with adjustments for age, sex, race, educational level, economic class level, diabetes, hearth failure, and hemoglobin.

Results:

Mean age was 51.5 ± 12.5 years. Moderate to severe fatigue (⩾4 points) was observed in 70.8% (165/233), and absent or mild fatigue (<4 points) in 29.2% (68/233). Compared to patients with fatigue scores <4 (20.6%), the need for post-hemodialysis recovery was 2.5 times greater in patients with fatigue scores ⩾4 (52.7%). The covariate-adjusted logistic regression OR was 4.60, 95% CI: 2.27, 9.21.

Conclusion:

This study in MHD patients of predominantly African descent supports self-reported fatigue assessed by the CFQ-11 as a relevant predictor of the need for post-hemodialysis recovery. The results offer a rationale for investigating whether interventions to prevent fatigue reduce the need of post-hemodialysis recovery.
Correctional Transgender Policy in Canada’s Federal Prison System
Authors: Foley Gillian , Siqueira Cassiano Marcella , Ricciardelli Rosemary , Gacek James
Published: August 2024

Since December 2017, Canada’s federal correctional system provides prisoners the opportunity to be assigned to living units according to their self-identified gender. Still organized around sex, conceptually and spatially, prison policies and procedures surrounding transgender prisoners require navigation to adhere to the rights of all prisoners. Based on interviews conducted between October 2019 and October 2021 with 74 correctional officers (COs) from the Canadian federal prison system, we discuss how correctional officers view and operationalize Canada’s transgender policy to understand its unintended consequences for both prisoners and prison staff. Unintended consequences revolve around the potential risk for prisoner victimization, prisoner pregnancy, lack of adequate housing, strip search complications, officers’ fear of being labeled transphobic, and uncertainty and discretion; all having effects on staff wellness. The policy, although well-intended, may potentially compromise prisoner safety, making correctional work even more stressful.
Bearing Psychic Weight and Accountability: Navigating Racism and Microaggressions in Creative Work
Authors: Stuart Alanna , de Laat Kim
Published: August 2024

This article examines how Indigenous, Black, and people of colour (IBPOC) music industry workers navigate moments of racism and microaggressions. Through interviews with musical artists and industry workers ( N = 55), the article identifies two strategies for navigating situational acts of racism: alleviation and confrontation. Those choosing to alleviate reactions to racism express a psychic weight that stays with them, while those choosing to confront racism report that social accountability guides their actions. These strategies reveal both the persistence of and resistance to the music industry’s somatic norm – the corporeal baseline of whiteness against which non-White bodies are perceived and judged. They also result in a longer-term mental load that becomes constitutive of career advancement efforts.
Enhancing Resilience via Exponential Technologies: Analysing Trends, Focus and Contributions
Authors: Arora Manpreet , Kumar Jeetesh , Dhiman Vaishali , Rathore Sunaina , Singh Swati , Chandel Monika
Published: August 2024

This article seeks to conduct a bibliometric analysis focusing on exponential technologies such as big data, internet of thing (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and cloud computing. It aims to outline research trends in this domain and explore their correlation with resilience. The study aims to track the evolution of research trends in this field over time and identify less explored dimensions of exponential technologies. Leveraging performance analysis and science mapping techniques, the paper highlights the significant growth and potential in these areas, considering them as pivotal agendas of the twenty-first century. By examining scientific productivity metrics such as publications, authors, institutions, countries and keywords, the article offers insights into emerging areas within exponential technologies. As the first comprehensive study of its kind, it provides a broad overview of the main trends and patterns in resilience research encompassing big data, IoT, AI, blockchain and cloud computing, consolidating them into a single cohesive narrative.
Work and Family: Conversations About Identity with Middle-class Women
Authors: Khullar Mala , Sudarshan Ratna M.
Published: August 2024

‘Personal identity’ is a composite of several intersecting roles and performances, not a starting point but the net outcome of ascribed and achieved statuses. With the myriad transformations underway in India, are gendered identities also changing? We seek to throw light on the construction of educated middle-class women’s identity in the light of newer norms and to find out why so many educated women are giving up their careers and adjusting to being homemakers. In search of answers, we interviewed educated middle-class urban women from Delhi/NCR in the age group of 30–50 years who had given up or taken breaks from their careers. However, although our interviewees’ identities tended to be tied up with their families, they did not give up searching for spaces outside of family to find room for a degree of autonomy, agency and new opportunities to build more meaningful selves and economic independence.
Networks of HIV Service Organisations: Changes Over Time and Implications for HIV Elimination
Authors: Davoudpour Shahin , Ruprecht Megan M. , Xu Jiayi , Felt Dylan , Boegner Joshua , Lindeman Peter , Janulis Patrick , Greene George J. , Johnson Amy K. , Kern David , Phillips Gregory
Published: August 2024

Comprehensive Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) services are seldom found within a single organisation. This motivates organisations to form partnerships to achieve optimal outcomes. However, the complexity of inter-organisational relationships can hinder the process of achieving an effective and coordinated response to the HIV epidemic. Understanding the evolution of these inter-organisational relationships can shed light on ways to improve the delivery of these service provisions. This study examines the organisational networks of the HIV care landscape in the Chicago area across 3 years (2015–17). The results of longitudinal analysis indicate that although most organisations still perceive this landscape to be moderately competitive, they have developed more formalised ties and increased their collaborations across 3 years. Further, with passage of time, this organisational network has become denser with no organisational isolation, indicating connection between all organisations in this landscape. Practical implications for organisations are discussed.
Golden Triangle Amphetamines in India: The Indo-Bangladesh Border as an Alternative to the North-East Corridor
Authors: Sarkar Rajdeep
Published: August 2024

Myanmar’s political turbulence has provided suitable conditions for the growth of bustling drug production complexes. From opiates to amphetamines, the connection between drugs, conflict and power is a key regional dynamic with implications for its neighbours and beyond. This article discusses some security and socio-economic implications for India due to the explosion of amphetamine trade originating in the Golden Triangle region. Though the North-east has been extensively identified as the main corridor for the passage of Myanmar-origin drugs, this article explores an alternative view by focusing on West Bengal as a particularly vulnerable area as both a destination and transit area for amphetamines. I argue that in the densely populated border areas in West Bengal, amphetamines are being integrated into existing cross-border smuggling routes used for cattle, gold, minerals and illicit pharmaceutical drugs, with regional and national implications.
Nuclear and Radiological Material Smuggling in the Indian Ocean: Implications for India’s Coastal Security
Authors: Sharma Devyani , Mishra Saurabh
Published: August 2024

Incidents of nuclear and radiological smuggling in the Indian Ocean are a matter of concern. Attempts to smuggle nuclear material within India have also been reported as recently as 2021. Indian security agencies previously have also seized natural uranium in coastal states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra and Bengal indicating how vulnerable the Indian coast is to radiological and nuclear smuggling. The Nuclear Security Index has also consistently ranked India below China and Pakistan despite their poor record on nuclear non-proliferation. These facts highlight concerns regarding the possible misuse of nuclear and radiological material by criminal and terrorist networks. Since India is targeted by terrorist groups and lies in the vicinity of countries and routes that see frequent nuclear and radiological trafficking, there are inevitable implications for the Indian coastal security system. This article identifies and analyses these security implications and argues for a beefing up of India’s coastal security.
The Supply-Side Story of Zero Tillage Service Provision in the Eastern Gangetic Plains: Perspectives from Machinery Owners
Authors: Sharma Akriti , Timsina Pragya , Chaudhary Anjana , Karki Emma , Brown Brendan
Published: August 2024

A vibrant fee-for-hire service provision economy is required in the Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP) to ensure that resource-poor smallholder farmers can access and benefit from agri-mechanisation. While the literature on sustainable agri-mechanisation (with an emphasis on Conservation Agriculture-based Sustainable Intensification) has focused on the potential impact on farmer livelihoods, there has been a significant gap in understanding the supply constraints that limit the availability of machinery for smallholders. Using a novel qualitative thematic coding approach based on machinery owner experiences, this study aims to fill this gap, highlighting issues around the inclusiveness of current approaches to encourage machinery services provision and the economic viability of doing so. The findings of this study are not only informative but also have practical implications for future work. To address key constraints, we identify five focus areas for future research, alongside the need to explore with communities their preferred methods to access machinery. In doing so, this work enables a more holistic understanding of the next steps to encourage widespread and equitable agri-mechanization across the EGP.
Addressing Worker Safety and Health Through the Lens of Strategic Enforcement—Part One
Authors: Felsen Michael
Published: August 2024

Ensuring the safety and health of workers in this country, who are employed at millions of workplaces that present a dizzying array of hazards, is daunting. Every day, workers are maimed or die from workplace injuries or occupational illnesses. Hence, government agencies must use all available means to ensure the laws intended to keep workers safe and healthy in their workplaces are maximally effective in accomplishing that purpose. This paper addresses this challenge through the lens of strategic enforcement. It examines how federal and state authority are designed to interact to ensure worker protection in this space, and focuses on what tools for deterring violations – many unrecognized or underutilized by worker safety agencies – are available to leverage the limited resources that inevitably constrain the agencies' reach. The forthcoming Part II will, among other things, showcase a number of noteworthy state and local initiatives that exceed the federal standard.
Toward a Shared Ideological Currency: Ideological Affective Polarization & the Changing Structure of Ideology in the U.S.
Authors: Coggins K. Elizabeth , Gruschow Kathleen J.
Published: August 2024

Much scholarly attention has focused on partisan affective polarization, a growing animosity between Democrats and Republicans in the mass public. Less notice has been given to affective polarization among the ideological teams, liberals, and conservatives. Yet, we suggest that given ideology’s particular influence in U.S. politics, ideological affective polarization has important and distinct consequences. We begin by offering evidence that ideological affective polarization both exists and has increased sharply in recent years. We theorize that this shift alters the way individuals come to form attachments to ideological identities, as well as the structure and tenor of ideology in the United States.
Enhancing intercultural communication skills: The impact of drama in Chinese language teaching
Authors: Shang Fuxing , Duan Weiwei , Xu Lu
Published: August 2024

Drama serves as an innovative teaching method, particularly within education. It offers a mode of learning that both challenges and supports students in understanding their world, allowing them to express and convey ideas through an artistic medium. Drama is crucial in the teaching of languages and also helps to develop learners’ intercultural communication skills, stimulates learners’ sense of cooperation, and provides a simulated real social environment, authentic communication tasks, and a holistic learning method. Therefore, the present article aims to examine how drama contributes to the teaching of the Chinese language. The reason behind conducting the current study is to explore the specific benefits of drama in language teaching, particularly within the unique Chinese context. Data was gathered using a questionnaire survey method. A valid sample of 169 Chinese language learning students and 68 Chinese language teachers participated. SPSS statistical software was utilized to analyse the data. The findings indicate that students who engage in drama activities within Chinese language classes exhibit notable proficiency in intercultural communication skills. The novelty lies in the study’s distinctive aim within the domain of drama in language instruction, as it conducts a thorough investigation into the advantages it offers in this field. By broadening comprehension of its influence on community cohesion, particularly in the unique setting of China, the study stands out. Additionally, it provides actionable recommendations for its integration into educational practices, further distinguishing its contribution to the discourse on drama’s role in language teaching. The results demonstrate that incorporating drama into language instruction promotes increased interest and motivation among Chinese learners. Additionally, the study highlights drama’s ability to cultivate a sense of teamwork and collaboration within the context of Chinese language education. This analysis highlights how drama activities contribute to a comprehensive and immersive learning journey for Chinese language students. This article recommends that all educational institutions implement drama in language teaching to improve students’ skills and performance.
Research on optimal sensor placement method for grid structures based on member strain energy
Authors: Shen Yanbin , You Saihao , Xu Wucheng , Luo Yaozhi
Published: August 2024

Structural health monitoring obtains data reflecting the service status of grid structures through sensors. One of the issues to consider in optimal sensor placement is how to obtain as much information as possible with a limited number of sensors. In this paper, a sensor placement method is proposed based on damage sensitivity and correlation analysis, which is based on strain energy calculation and is suitable for grid structures. Specifically, with the sensor locations as optimization variables, a mathematical optimization model is established by considering the damage sensitivity and redundancy of the monitoring scheme, and a genetic algorithm is employed for computation. Two examples, including a lattice shell and a flat grid, are provided to illustrate the method, followed by a discussion of the sensitivity of parameters such as stiffness reduction degree and load form. The results indicate that the redundancy of the optimized schemes for the two examples decreased by approximately 80% and 30%, respectively. The proposed method ensures a certain degree of damage sensitivity while significantly reducing redundancy, demonstrating its applicability and robustness in sensor placement for grid structures.
Psychosomatic complaints are indicative of stress in young individuals: findings from a Swedish national cohort study
Authors: Låftman Sara Brolin , Östberg Viveca
Published: August 2024

Aims:

Psychosomatic complaints are common in youth and are often assumed to indicate stress. Although several studies have confirmed that a cross-sectional association exists, few have empirically investigated whether or not perceived stress influences psychosomatic complaints. The objective of the present study was to build upon previous research by exploring whether changes in perceived stress over time are associated with corresponding changes in psychosomatic complaints. This analytical approach takes unmeasured time-invariant confounding into account, thereby offering more robust evidence for a causal association between the variables under study.

Methods:

Data was derived from the Swedish national cohort study Futura01, with information from 2,708 participants aged 17–18 in 2019 and 20–21 in 2022. Perceived stress was measured by Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale. Psychosomatic complaints were measured by questions on the frequency of stomach aches, headaches and difficulties falling asleep, which were added to an index. Information on gender, parental education, and parental country of birth was derived from registries. Linear regression analyses were conducted and the first difference (FD) approach was used.

Results:

Perceived stress and psychosomatic complaints exhibited cross-sectional associations at both time points. The FD analyses showed that increases in perceived stress were associated with increases in psychosomatic complaints, and this was the case irrespective of sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusions:

This study provides further empirical support for the assumption that psychosomatic complaints can be partially attributed to stress. Societal efforts aimed at reducing stressors and strengthening coping resources and strategies among young people may help mitigate perceived stress and, consequently, the likelihood of developing psychosomatic complaints.
Defining and distinguishing early life stress, trauma, adversity, toxic and chronic stress and allostatic load: a descriptive review
Authors: Remmers Maarten C.C. , Reijs Rianne P. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A.
Published: August 2024

Aims:

Various concepts are used to study the impact of stress on childhood development. These concepts are often used inconsistently or interchangeably. Our main objectives were to determine how selected stress concepts (chronic stress, toxic stress, allostatic load, early life stress, childhood adversity, childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences; ACEs) are defined, operationalized and described, and to provide a theoretical context to aid the choice for a preferred concept in public health research.

Methods:

For this descriptive review, we systematically searched for literature published before 4 August 2021, on PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo. Two independent reviewers included studies. Exclusion criteria were: no systematic review, not peer reviewed, not published in English, selected stress concepts were no predetermined variable or a substantial topic in the discussion, full text was unobtainable or study described non-human or non-childhood populations. Data extraction forms were used. Descriptives were gathered, publication fields were identified through Journal Citation Reports categories, and verbatim descriptions were ordered in text and Venn diagrams.

Results:

Of 264 screened studies, 124 were included. ACEs, childhood adversity and childhood trauma were used most. ACEs were the main concept used most frequently (47.6%). A total of 11 of 14 public and environmental health journals used ACEs. All concepts refer to prolonged, repeated, interpersonal stress from 0 to 18 years, that can alter physiological systems. Four concepts were stressor oriented, two concepts focused on stress response and effect and one on the state of challenged homeostasis.

Conclusions:

ACEs seem most fitting for public health setting, due to their operationalizability, large set of core experiences and widespread use.
Design and performance evaluation of a novel slightly acidic electrolysed water spraying air purifier for airborne bacteria and endotoxin in indoor air
Authors: Liu Chang , Li Zonggang , Deng Senzhong , Zheng Weichao
Published: August 2024

Conventional air purifiers are low effective in inactivating airborne bacteria and may cause secondary contamination by releasing endotoxins. In this study, a novel air purifier was developed and used in a static chamber, which used slightly acidic electrolysed water (SAEW) solutions as the circulating disinfectant spray medium that automatically renewed every 30 min. During the 30-minute operation, the air and solution samples were collected to measure the bacteria and endotoxin concentration by using a culturable-based method and a limulus amoebocyte lysate assay kit, respectively. The pH and endotoxin of the circulating solution were gradually increased, and the available chlorine concentration (ACC, from 87 to 50 mg/L) was decreased. Although airborne bacteria were reduced significantly, the levels of airborne endotoxins at the inlet and outlet of the purifier remained constant. Moreover, a validation experiment revealed that SAEW, with ACC of 20, 60 and 100 mg/L, cannot inactivate standard endotoxin solutions. In the experimental chamber, the airborne bacteria level (1142 CFU/m3) was significantly lower compared to the control chamber (3325 CFU/m3), with no significant difference in airborne endotoxin levels between the chambers. Our results showed that the SAEW spray air purifier could effectively remove airborne bacteria without increasing airborne endotoxin levels within a 30-minute operational period.
Orthodontic YouTube™ videos made by patients for patients: What are they about and are they accurate?
Authors: Liew Iris EJ , Sharif Mohammad Owaise , Cunningham Susan J
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate the characteristics and content of YouTube™ videos created by patients undergoing orthodontic fixed appliance treatment and to assess the content accuracy of these videos.

Design:

A mixed-methods quantitative and qualitative study.

Data source:

YouTube™ webpage.

Methods:

The term ‘braces’ was used to search for relevant videos on the YouTube™ webpage between 18 August and 30 August 2020, with no limits imposed regarding how long the video had been available on YouTube™. Videos were included if they were made by patients and were predominantly about patients’ experiences during treatment with labial fixed appliances. The main themes/subthemes of the included videos were identified. A checklist was then developed to assess accuracy of the video content for two of the main themes and the videos were assessed against the checklist.

Results:

The video search identified 350 videos, of which 64 were selected as potentially eligible; 41 were subsequently excluded as they related primarily to the bond up/debond experience or had minimal information about orthodontics. This meant that 23 videos were ultimately included for analysis. Six main themes were identified in the videos: problems with fixed appliances, effects of fixed appliances, oral hygiene maintenance, dietary advice, treatment duration/appointment frequency and auxiliaries used with fixed appliances. From the 23 videos, 20 were assessed against the checklist for content accuracy related to two selected themes: oral hygiene maintenance and dietary advice. The majority of videos had low content accuracy scores, indicating that important and relevant content was generally missing.

Conclusion:

Several included videos focused on oral hygiene maintenance and dietary advice associated with fixed appliances; however, the content was incomplete and not always accurate. This is concerning to the profession, and it is therefore recommended that clinicians consider collaborating with patients to produce videos that are patient-centred and that also contain accurate information.
A scanner darkly: augmented reality face filters as algorithmic images
Authors: Eugeni Ruggero
Published: August 2024

This article examines augmented reality filters applied to users’ faces, or ARFaces, a visual technology that has spread with increasing success since 2015, mainly through social media. In the first part, the article highlights four significant issues that have emerged about ARFaces: the risks of Body Dysmorphic Disorders linked to beautification filters; the new personal and immediate relationships with brands linked to branded ARFaces; the adoption of filters by a new generation of artists and creatives; and the risks of surveillance related to the face recognition technology on which they are based. The second part of the article argues that ARFaces represent a symptomatic example of ‘algorithmic images’. This type of image modifies the logic of ‘technical images’ that characterised previous media as it shifts the centre of gravity of the processes of the visual constitution from the remote transfer of information to the automated extraction and processing of data. In its conclusions, the article outlines some conceptual tools for dealing with algorithmic images: the author proposes developing a political economy of light and analysing its transformation from a support infrastructure for a political economy of the visual to a supply structure for a data economy.
Computational approaches to the figurative and plastic dimensions of images
Authors: Compagno Dario
Published: August 2024

This article’s aim is to explore the possibilities and limitations of some quantitative tools for the analysis of images. It shows how three different families of tools – manual annotation, eye-tracking and signifier analysis – can help to better understand the meaning effects of figurative and plastic (abstract) elements in pictures. Advantages and disadvantages for each family of tools are discussed. The author also suggests some theoretical implications of the adoption of quantitative tools in the humanities and especially within semiotic disciplines.
Integrating brief exposure exercises to support cognitive processing therapy for treatment of PTSD: A case study
Authors: Medenblik Alyssa M. , Moore Todd M. , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: August 2024

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and concerning mental health diagnosis across the globe. There are multiple evidence-based treatments that have been shown to effectively treat PTSD, including cognitive processing therapy (CPT) and exposure-based interventions. This case study depicts using CPT for treating uncomplicated PTSD in a 28-year-old woman, while integrating brief exposure exercises in the client’s homework. These exercises helped target avoidance symptoms and acute distress as well as increase quality of life, such that the client was better able to engage in CPT. Follow up data indicated a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms as measured by the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) such that she no longer met clinical criteria for a diagnosis of PTSD or experienced significant distress related to her trauma. This data reflects the utility of integrating other evidence-based exercises into manualized treatment to create nuanced, individualized treatment plans. Clinical and research implications regarding the utility of implementing an integrated, conceptualization-driven treatment approach are discussed.
In-hospital Management of Status Epilepticus: Does Uniformity Mean Quality?
Authors: Gaspard Nicolas
Published: August 2024

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Client Perceptions of the Individual Packer Managing Fatigue Program: A Mixed-Method Evaluation
Authors: Alizadeh Neda , Packer Tanya L. , Jaswal Sabrena , Sturkenboom Ingrid , Warner Grace
Published: August 2024

Fatigue is common, but under-recognized in Parkinson’s disease (PD), with limited treatment options. The aim of this study is to explore the experience of people with PD (PwPD) regarding content and delivery of the individual Packer Managing Fatigue program. This mixed-method study ( n = 12) was conducted concurrently with a pilot randomized controlled trial. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups. Five themes emerged: the program is helpful; the program has strengths; areas for improvement; individual online delivery is feasible; and more support from occupational therapist would be helpful. Quantitative findings confirmed feasibility with high ratings on questionnaires and confidence to use learned strategies. The findings inform future implementation of the Packer Managing Fatigue program and contribute to understanding the needs of PwPD. Future studies might explore program’s effectiveness as stand-alone treatment or in combination with other approaches. Tailoring fatigue programs to PwPD’s unique needs and characteristics of PD fatigue is suggested.
Development and application of fused deposition molding 3D printing technology in textile and fashion design
Authors: Li Shuai
Published: August 2024

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is utilized in the textile and apparel industry due to its adaptability, low cost, and high productivity. Promoting the efficient, diversified, and sustainable development of the textile and apparel industry, and to broaden the scope of application for FDM technology. This paper discusses the fundamental principles, design, and manufacturing processes of FDM printing of textiles and garments, as well as a summary of the commonly used materials for FDM printing of textiles and garments and their associated performance parameters. By examining the forming quality of textiles and garments, we analyze the influencing factors in the four phases of computer aided design (CAD) modeling, model slicing, forming processing, and post-finishing, and propose solutions to potential issues. Finally, case studies are used to summarise the primary applications of FDM in textile and apparel manufacturing, and the challenges and prospects of FDM in textiles and apparel are discussed. The application of FDM in the textiles and apparel industry not only promotes the advancement of manufacturing technology innovation, but also demonstrates a broader range of application value in terms of design development, functional properties, material combinations, and other factors.
Auditory distraction during reading: Investigating the effects of background sounds on parafoveal processing
Authors: Rettie Laura , Marsh John E , Liversedge Simon P , Wang Mengsi , Degno Federica
Published: August 2024

Previous research suggests that unexpected (deviant) sounds negatively affect reading performance by inhibiting saccadic planning, which models of reading agree takes place simultaneous to parafoveal processing. This study examined the effect of deviant sounds on foveal and parafoveal processing. Participants read single sentences in quiet, standard (repeated sounds), or deviant sound conditions (a new sound within a repeated sound sequence). Sounds were presented with a variable delay coincident with the onset of fixations on target words during a period when saccadic programming and parafoveal processing occurred. We used the moving window paradigm to manipulate the amount of information readers could extract from the parafovea (the entire sentence or a 13-character window of text). Global, sentence-level analyses showed typical disruption to reading by the window, and under quiet conditions similar effects were observed at the target and post-target word in the local analyses. Standard and deviant sounds also produced clear distraction effects of differing magnitudes at the target and post-target words, though at both regions, these effects were qualified by interactions. Effects at the target word suggested that with sounds, readers engaged in less effective parafoveal processing than under quiet. Similar patterns of effects due to standard and deviant sounds, each with a different time course, occurred at the post-target word. We conclude that distraction via auditory deviation causes disruption to parafoveal processing during reading, with such effects being modulated by the degree to which a sound’s characteristics are more or less unique.
The treatment effect across ASPECTS in acute ischemic stroke: Analysis from the AcT trial
Authors: Kaveeta Chitapa , Alhabli Ibrahim , Bala Fouzi , Horn MacKenzie , Benali Faysal , Coutts Shelagh B , Zafar Atif , Bereznyakova Olena , Khaw Alexander , Khosravani Houman , Hunter Gary , Tkach Aleksander , Dowlatshahi Dar , Catanese Luciana , Bogiatzi Chrysi , Appireddy Ramana , Buck Brian H , Swartz Richard H , Sajobi Tolulope T , Almekhlafi Mohammed , Demchuk Andrew M , Ganesh Aravind , Menon Bijoy , Singh Nishita
Published: August 2024

Background:

Early ischemic changes on baseline imaging are commonly evaluated for acute stroke decision-making and prognostication.

Aims:

We assess the association of early ischemic changes on clinical outcomes and whether it differs between intravenous tenecteplase and Alteplase.

Methods:

Data are from the phase 3, Alteplase compared to Tenecteplase (AcT) trial. Subjects with anterior circulation stroke were included. Early ischemic changes were assessed using the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT score (ASPECTS). Efficacy outcomes included modified Rankin scale (mRS) 0–1, mRS 0–2, and ordinal mRS at 90 days. Safety outcomes included 24-h symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), any hemorrhage on follow-up scan, and 90-day mortality rate. Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to assess the association of ASPECTS (continuous and categorical (0–4 vs 5–7 vs 8–10)) with outcomes and if these associations were modified by thrombolytic type after adjusting for age, sex, and baseline stroke severity.

Results:

Of the 1577 patients in the trial, 901 patients (56.3%; median age 75 years (IQR 65–84), 50.8% females, median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) 14 (IQR 17–19)) with anterior circulation stroke were included. mRS 0–1 at 90 days was achieved in 1/14 (0.3%), 43/160 (14.7%), and 252/726 (85.1%) in the ASPECTS 0–4, 5–7, and 8–10 groups respectively. Every one-point decrease in ASPECTS was associated with 2.7% and 1.9% decrease in chances of mRS 0–1 and mRS 0–2 at 90 days, respectively, and 1.9% chances of increase in mortality at 90 days. Subgroup analysis in endovascular thrombectomy (EVT)-treated population showed similar results. Thrombolytic type did not modify this association between ASPECTS and 90-day mRS 0–1 (P-interaction 0.75). There was no significant interaction by thrombolytic type with any other outcomes.

Conclusion:

Similar to prior studies, we found that every one-point decrease in ASPECTS was associated with poorer clinical and safety outcomes. This effect did not differ between alteplase and tenecteplase.

Data access statement:

Data shall made available on reasonable request from the PI (BMM).