bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence’s new clothes? A system technology perspective
Authors: Vannuccini Simone , Prytkova Ekaterina
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we offer an original framework to study Artificial Intelligence (AI). The perspective we propose is based on the idea that AI is a system technology, and that a useful description of AI cannot abstain from mapping the components of the system, their interdependence, and how the synergies they create shape at the roots the directions of AI development. We adopt the concept of Large technical systems (LTS) to give substance and structure to our idea. Using LTS, we are able to scaffold AI and the forces at work steering its production, deployment, and evolution. We find that AI as a system shares essential features with infrastructural technologies such as the Internet. The LTS framework proves very useful to capture important nuances of the technology, and it allows us to trace the connections and cross–influences among its constituting domains—algorithms (software), compute (hardware), and data. We compare our proposed framework with other concepts usually associated with radical innovations, and suggest in which respects AI differs from these ideal–types. We consider ours a timely exercise, as we witness the formation of an AI industry. While in the making, this industry is rapidly ossifying, together with its specific problems, power imbalances, and development scenarios; the focus on the system–ness of AI allows uncovering the deeper structure of this technological breakthrough.
The short- and long-term effects of lower limb endurance training on outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Chung An-Chi , Chang Chun-Jung , Liu Jui-Fang , Hung Ming-Szu , Fang Tien-Pei , Lin Hui-Ling
Published: August 2023

Objective

To explore the short- and long-term effects of lower-limb endurance training on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease outpatients.

Design

Prospective quasi-experimental study.

Setting

1383-bed teaching hospital in Taiwan.

Participants

Overall, 69 outpatients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were enrolled. A total of 60 patients completed the study.

Intervention

Training group: Lower-limb endurance training; control group: Education only.

Main measures

The modified medical research council score, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test score, pulmonary function test, and number of acute exacerbation within a year.

Results

The training group showed significant improvement in the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test total score, modified medical research council score (both P < 0.001) at third month sustaining to 12th month ( P < 0.001) and presented less events of acute exacerbation ( P = 0.011) at 12th month. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test decreased by 8 points sustaining to 12th month. The training group presented significant post-training functional capacity improvements in 6-min walking distance, lowest oxygen saturation during 6-min walking test, peak workload, maximum inspiratory/ expiratory pressures, and calf circumference.

Conclusions

The lower-limb endurance training improved perceived dyspnea in daily activity and health status after completion of training and sustaining for a year. The lower-limb endurance training alleviated disease impacted on reduced acute exacerbations.
Three Criteria for Virtuous Collaboration Across Epistemic Practices: A Case From Sentimentalism and Field Environmental Philosophy
Authors: Silva Nicolas , Céspedes Esteban
Published: August 2023

The present paper proposes three desiderata that methodologies for collaboration between philosophy and ethnobiology should satisfy. The account considers that a focus on a sentimentalist virtue epistemology is necessary to effectively address problems and challenges in such collaborations. Our focus on sentimentalism is further elaborated through three desiderata: (D1) The context of the collaboration should encourage receptivity among practitioners; (D2) collaborations should aim to produce knowledge that addresses the problems faced by stakeholders; and (D3) relevant communities and collaborators for each case should be included by attuning to the conditions of the collaboration. To support our argument, we present the methodology of Field Environmental Philosophy as a case study in which attention to these desiderata is thoroughly present, resulting in a successful collaboration. We argue that these desiderata are crucial for understanding collaborations between philosophy and ethnobiology.
English School Special Section
Authors: Basu-Mellish Jack , Navari Cornelia , Zhang Yongjin , Banai Hussein , Buranelli Filippo Costa , Zaccato Carolina , Taeuber Simon F. , Friedner Parrat Charlotta , Bottelier Thomas
Published: August 2023

This is a series of solicited articles requested by the editors of Vol. 51, emerging from a roundtable discussion held at the 2022 International Studies Association Convention. Each short contribution seeks to demonstrate the newest research of the English School of International Relations. These contributions tackle key questions including: the decline of liberal hegemony, the rise of China, the divide between soldaristic and pluralistic ethics, the engagement of the English School with Area Studies, theoretical approaches to grounding English School research and an investigation of the English School’s intellectual legacy.

Section spéciale École anglaise
Novelty in News Search: A Longitudinal Study of the 2020 US Elections
Authors: Ulloa Roberto , Makhortykh Mykola , Urman Aleksandra , Kulshrestha Juhi
Published: August 2023

The 2020 US elections news coverage was extensive, with new pieces of information generated rapidly. This evolving scenario presented an opportunity to study the performance of search engines in a context in which they had to quickly process information as it was published. We analyze novelty, a measurement of new items that emerge in the top news search results, to compare the coverage and visibility of different topics. Using virtual agents that simulate human web browsing behavior to collect search engine result pages, we conduct a longitudinal study of news results of five search engines collected in short bursts (every 21 minutes) from two regions (Oregon, US and Frankfurt, Germany), starting on election day and lasting until one day after the announcement of Biden as the winner. We find more new items emerging for election related queries (“joe biden,” “donald trump,” and “us elections”) compared to topical (e.g., “coronavirus”) or stable (e.g., “holocaust”) queries. We demonstrate that our method captures sudden changes in highly covered news topics as well as multiple differences across search engines and regions over time. We highlight novelty imbalances between candidate queries which affect their visibility during electoral periods, and conclude that, when it comes to news, search engines are responsible for such imbalances, either due to their algorithms or the set of news sources that they rely on.
Impact of Pharmacist-Led Education on Proper Prophylactic Enoxaparin Dosing in Obese Patients
Authors: Kempema Nelson Brianna R. , Wehner Carly L. , Haller Irina V. , Renier Colleen M.
Published: August 2023

Background/Purpose: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cardiovascular complication in middle-aged adults. There is a likelihood a patient may experience VTE when admitted to a hospital. Prophylactic medications such as low-dose unfractionated heparin and enoxaparin are started to prevent VTE. A pharmacist-led health system-wide Grand Rounds promoted prophylactic enoxaparin 40 mg twice daily instead of once daily in patients with a body mass index (BMI) 40 kg/m2 or greater. Methodology: This case-control study was conducted at a Essentia Health – Fargo, in the Upper Midwest. Data of acute care patients were extracted from electronic health records 2 years before and after the pharmacist-led education. Patients in the study were 18 years old or older, hospitalized with a need for prophylactic anticoagulation receiving enoxaparin, and had a BMI 40 kg/m2 or greater. Patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 and recent bleeding were excluded. Groups were compared to determine the effect of pharmacist-led education. The outcome was the number of patients who received enoxaparin 40 mg twice daily compared to once daily. Results: In the control group, 9 out of 15 hospitalizations received enoxaparin 40 mg subcutaneous twice daily and in the case group 34 out of 70 hospitalizations received the twice daily dosing. The odds ratio of receiving enoxaparin 40 mg twice daily after the pharmacist-led education compared to before the education was OR = .99, 95% CI = .96, 1.02. Conclusions: There was no difference in enoxaparin 40 mg once daily and twice daily dosing after the pharmacist-led education.
Robust adaptive quadrotor position tracking control for uncertain and fault conditions
Authors: Artuc M Bugrahan , Bayezit Ismail
Published: August 2023

The combination of nonlinear indirect and direct adaptive control with an active fault-tolerant framework is proposed in this paper for quadrotor position tracking control under uncertain and fault conditions. An inner loop direct model reference adaptive controller generates the required force while moving along the reference trajectory, while nonlinear indirect adaptive controller maintains the required attitude angles. Furthermore, for uncertain conditions, our proposed framework provides significantly stable characteristics. Otherwise, when a fault occurs at actuators or sensors, the quadrotor vehicle cannot guarantee global asymptotic stability. This study contributes to an active fault-tolerant control strategy for solving the complex position tracking problem using the adaptive two-stage Kalman filter (ATSKF). Based on the fault information, a fault compensation term is added to the control law to improve convergence and system robustness in the presence of uncertain and fault conditions. Finally, simulation results show satisfactory performance for quadrotor vehicle position tracking, even with actuator faults and uncertainties.
Public orders: The sex crimes of policing
Authors: Race Kane
Published: August 2023

This article reflects on the policing of sexual and gender minorities in New South Wales (NSW) in connection with Justin Ellis’ Policing Legitimacy: Social media, scandal and sexual citizenship. Ellis’ book approaches the scandal precipitated by the social media circulation of bystander footage of police assaulting a young gay man at the 2013 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras as a threshold case of ‘sousveillance’ – ‘watching from below’ – and investigates the disruption this practice can make to instituted relations between police, media and other organisations, and its significance for sexual citizenship.
Biochemical Verification of Tobacco-Use as an Inclusion Criterion in Smoking Cessation Trials- Lessons From the Cessation of Smoking Trial in the Emergency Department
Authors: Pope Ian , Suresh Chandhini , Ward Emma , Belderson Pippa , Notley Caitlin
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Biochemical verification of smoking status prior to recruitment into smoking cessation trials is widely used to confirm smoking status, most commonly using exhaled carbon monoxide (CO). There is variation in the level of CO used as a biochemical inclusion criterion, and thus the possibility for people reporting to be current smokers to be incorrectly excluded from trials.

METHODS

As part of the Cessation of Smoking Trial in the Emergency Department, people attending the Emergency Department (ED) who reported being current daily smokers underwent CO testing to confirm eligibility. Elective semi-structured interviews were undertaken with the researchers who recruited participants. As part of the interviews, researchers were asked their views and experiences with CO testing.

RESULTS

Of the 1320 participants who reported being current daily smokers and underwent CO testing, 300 (22.7%) blew a CO reading of 7 ppm or less and were excluded from taking part. Possible explanations offered by researchers for participants blowing low CO readings were (1) long wait times in the ED, therefore a long period having elapsed since people had last smoked and (2) patients having reduced smoking for the period before the ED attendance due to ill health.

CONCLUSIONS

Biochemical verification has the potential to improve internal validity of smoking cessation for inclusion in trials, but at the cost of reduced generalisability through exclusion of participants who would receive the intervention if it were implemented in practice. We would recommend researchers carefully consider whether it is appropriate and necessary to include biochemical verification as an inclusion criterion.
Infusing courageous love for universal dignity and environmental response-ability through management education and learning: Inspired By Freire’s dream
Authors: Jamil Nazarina , Humphries-Kil Maria , Dey (Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāiterangi) Kahurangi
Published: August 2023

Freire’s pedagogy is commonly applied to the education of those relegated to known dangerous socio-economic exploitation locally and globally. In contrast, we apply his concerns to ourselves as among the seemingly privileged humans on this Earth. Through this essay, we challenge uncritical assumptions embedded in the forms of The Global Market normalized (and only occasionally challenged) in much business school education. We personalize ‘The Global Market’ as a particular representation of ‘Moloch’, an ancient deity demanding human sacrifice. We depict ‘Democracy’ as Moloch’s Handmaiden. Informed by Freire’s emancipatory values, we offer a contribution to management education that is responsive to, responsible for and response- able in the realization of global justice exemplified in (but not unique to) the aspirations of the United Nations. We offer an interpretation of the radical ethics of Emanuel Levinas whose attention lies with those countless people he claims each of us to have responsibilities for. Applied to the field of management education, we reflect on whether the United Nations-led Principles for Responsible Management Education offer opportunities to progress Freire’s Pedagogy of Hope to enhance forms of management learning infused with courageous love for universal emancipation from Moloch’s harms, an emancipation we express as universal justice.
Study on pile-soil bonding condition based on transient shock response using piezoceramic sensors
Authors: Zhu Daopei , Wang Lihui , Wang Zhangli
Published: August 2023

The field evaluation of pile-soil combination is a key step in the service life evaluation of pile foundation. However, due to the time-varying nature of pile-soil interaction, there is no efficient method to accurately analyze it. This paper introduces a health monitoring technique for assessing the state of pile-soil bond. The transient vibration of pile-soil coupling was measured by piezoelectric ceramic sensor. In the experiment, the different bond states of pile and soil were simulated by taking clay of different density as an example. A horizontal force is applied to the top of the pile, and the induced stress wave is detected by piezoelectric ceramic intelligent aggregate sensor embedded in the pile. At the same time, taking the artificial separation of pile-soil as an example, the binding state of pile-soil is analyzed, and the influence of different soil conditions on the pile-soil bonding characteristics is studied. An energy index for quantitative evaluation of pile-soil binding quality is proposed. Taking piles buried in two layers of soil with different densities as an example, the effects of soil with different densities on pile-soil bonding characteristics were studied. Experimental and numerical results verified the effectiveness of the proposed method. The three factors influenced the pile-soil coupling. The experimental and numerical results verified the effectiveness of the proposed approach and pave the way for an approach to directly judge whether there is separation between the pile and soil and evaluate the pile safety.
Printing strategies to fabricate a disk through the fused deposition modeling method
Authors: Yousefi Navid , Hashemi Ramin , Sedighi Mohammad
Published: August 2023

The fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique is widely used in different industries due to its low cost and ability to produce complex geometries from polymers. In this technique, some manufacturing parameters are essential because of their effects on the mechanical performance of the final fabricated part. The current study investigated the impact of path strategy and printing speed, two key manufacturing factors, on the mechanical performance of printed disks. Six types of path strategies of rasters corresponding to the loading direction, namely unidirectional-vertical, unidirectional-horizontal, unidirectional-45, cross, cross-45, and concentrate, were used for printing some disks, and compressive tests were done on them. The results showed that these path strategies’ average compressive failure loads were 2955, 4957, 2342, 4640, 3971, and 5893 N, respectively. The lower compressive strength of the unidirectional path pattern was due to the weak zones that were located between the printed layers and rasters. Besides, three printing speeds of 40, 60, and 80 mm/s were considered to fabricate the disks with a concentrate path pattern, and compressive experiments were performed. The results showed that the 40 mm/s printing speed conducted a compressive failure load of 4544 N, while 60 and 80 mm/s resulted in 3008 and 2828 N, respectively. Finally, inter-layer strength as a major factor in controlling the compressive strength of the disks was comprehensively discussed.
Community-based participatory action research with LGBTQIA+ youth during the COVID-19 pandemic: Reflections from a collaborative autoethnography
Authors: Iacono Gio , Holle Leah , Loveland Emily , Borel Christina , Horton Evan , Olson Hannah , Craig Shelley L. , Bietsch Breana
Published: August 2023

We use a collaborative autoethnography (CAE) methodology to explore how our research team conducted community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and other sexually and gender diverse youth (LGBTQIA+) youth during the COVID-19 pandemic, which required us to modify our original research approach. This paper describes the authors’ processes and provides critical reflections on continuing to use CBPAR during the pandemic with LGBTQIA+ youth to develop and evaluate a mental health intervention (i.e., Tuned In!) that aims to address their mental health needs. Our CAE revealed three main themes: 1) Enhancing Accessibility; 2) Centering the Voices of LGBTQIA+ Youth; 3) Prioritizing Relationships and Community Building, and an over-arching theme of Trust that facilitated our efforts. Taken together, our findings illuminate practical approaches to engage LGBTQIA+ youth through research despite myriad obstacles brought on by the pandemic.
Effect of Intraperitoneal 224Radium-Labelled Microparticles on Compartmentalized Inflammation After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hypertherm Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Authors: Thorgersen Ebbe Billmann , Asvall Jørund , Schjalm Camilla , McAdam Karin Ekholt , Bruland Øyvind Sverre , Larsen Stein Gunnar , Mollnes Tom Eirik
Published: August 2023

Despite extensive treatment with surgery and chemotherapy many patients with peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer experience intraperitoneal disease relapse. The α-emitting 224radium-labelled microparticle radionuclide therapeutic Radspherin® is being explored as a novel treatment option for these patients. Radspherin® is specially designed to give local radiation to the surface of the peritoneal cavity and potentially kill remaining attached micrometastases as well as free-floating cancer cells, thus preventing future relapse. The effect of Radspherin® on the immune system is not known. Systemic and local inflammatory responses were analyzed in plasma, intraperitoneal fluid and urine collected prospectively as part of a phase 1 dose-escalation study of intraperitoneal instillation of the α-emitting therapeutic radiopharmaceutical Radspherin®, at baseline and the first 7 postoperative days from nine patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. All patients additionally received intraperitoneal instillation of Radspherin® on postoperative day 2. Complement activation products C3bc and the terminal complement complex were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Cytokines ( n = 27), including interleukins, chemokines, interferons and growth factors, were analyzed using multiplex technique. The time course and magnitude of the postoperative cytokine response after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy displayed a modest systemic response in plasma, in contrast to a substantial local intraperitoneal response. After administration of Radspherin®, a significant increase ( P < 0.05) in TNF and MIP-1β was observed in both plasma and peritoneal fluid, whereas IL-9 increased only in plasma and IFNγ and IL1-RA only in peritoneal fluid. Only minor changes were seen for the majority of the inflammatory markers after Radspherin® administration. Our study showed a predominately local rather than systemic inflammatory response to cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Radspherin® had overall modest impact on the inflammation.
Mechanical thrombectomy in low Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomographic Score: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bouslama Mehdi , Baig Ammad A , Raygor Kunal P , Turner Ryan C , Kuo Cathleen C , Donnelly Brianna M , Lim Jaims , Monteiro Andre , Jaikumar Vinay , Lai Pui M R , Davies Jason M , Snyder Kenneth V , Levy Elad I , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: August 2023

Background

Due to their poor natural history and lack in level-I evidence, patients with large vessel occlusion and large core infarcts (Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomographic Score <6) have been excluded from receiving mechanical thrombectomy. This systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to summarize current evidence from published randomized controlled trials to compare the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy with optimal medical therapy in treating stroke patients with large core infarcts.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE for randomized controlled trials investigating the safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy vs optimal medical therapy in patients presenting with large vessel occlusion and large infarcts. Basic demographic and comorbidities were assessed, and clinical outcomes were compared, including modified Rankin scale 0–3, and 0–2 at 3 months, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, decompressive hemicortectomy, and 90-day mortality.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials totaling 1011 patients (501 and 510 in the medical management and mechanical thrombectomy arm, respectively) were included. Patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy had significantly higher odds of achieving better functional outcomes at 3 months: Modified Rankin scale 0–2 (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 2.101–4.4021, p < 0.0001) and modified Rankin scale 0–3 (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.67–2.89, p < 0.0001) as compared to those receiving optimal medical management. There were no differences between groups in 90-day mortality (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.70–1.23, p = 0.60), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (OR = 1.89, 95% = CI 0.95–3.77, p = 0.07) or decompressive hemicraniectomy (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 0.69–2.25, p = 0.46).

Conclusion

Mechanical thrombectomy for patients with large infarcts is associated with improved functional outcomes and a similar safety profile compared to optimal medical management. Ongoing trials will help better refine the target population that benefits the most from treatment.
First clinical experience with the Derivo 2heal embolization device for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Goertz Lukas , Zopfs David , Schönfeld Michael , Zaeske Charlotte , Pennig Lenhard , Brinker Gerrit , Schlamann Marc , Kabbasch Christoph
Published: August 2023

Objective

The development of new flow-diverting devices with antithrombotic coatings may result in an improved safety profile, particularly a reduction in ischaemic stroke rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate our initial experience with the recently introduced coated Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device (Acandis, Pforzheim, Germany).

Methods

This is a retrospective, single-centre analysis of patients with intracranial aneurysms undergoing Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device treatment. Patient and aneurysm characteristics, procedural parameters, complications, and degree of initial and short-term aneurysm occlusion were evaluated on an intention-to-treat basis.

Results

A total of 16 unruptured aneurysms in 9 patients were treated with the Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device in 10 treatment sessions. In one case the Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device could not be deployed due to severe friction in the microcatheter. In all successful cases, one Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device was sufficient to treat the target aneurysm and no additional coiling was performed. In-stent balloon angioplasty was performed in one procedure (10%) to improve vessel wall apposition. Twelve arterial side branches were covered in 9 procedures and all were patent at the end of the procedure. There were no clinical complications and no thromboembolic events during treatment. At the end of the procedure, contrast retention was observed in 13/16 (81%) aneurysms and at short-term follow-up, 6/9 (67%) were completely occluded.

Conclusions

The preliminary results of the new Derivo® 2heal® Embolization Device appear promising and warrant further evaluation by multicentre studies with long-term follow-up.
Social media, political discourse and the 2019 elections in India: Journalists’ perspectives on the changing role of the mainstream media in setting the political agenda
Authors: Sharma Neelam , Sivakumar Gayathri
Published: August 2023

With the rise in social media usage, India now grapples with the problem of polarized political discourse via digital platforms. In light of the general elections in 2019, veteran Indian journalists, during in-depth interviews, discussed how social media influenced political discourse and enabled a polarized political narrative that gave rise to aggressive nationalism and majoritarian viewpoints. Journalists asserted that social media were instrumental in setting the agenda for the mainstream media and that social media had redefined their professional roles as the platforms enabled the politicians to bypass the mainstream news media and reach the voters directly.
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty following failed rotator cuff repair: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Welch Jessica M , Hurley Eoghan T , Lorentz Samuel , Bethell Mikhail A , Crook Bryan S , Dickens Jonathan F , Anakwenze Oke , Klifto Christopher S
Published: August 2023

Background

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) is an established operative treatment for failed rotator cuff repair (RCR) that may not be amenable to revision repair. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the clinical outcomes for patients undergoing RSA following prior failed RCR compared with patients without prior RCR undergoing primary RSA.

Methods

A systematic search of articles in Pubmed, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library databases was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. Comparative studies assessing outcomes of RSA after failed RCR versus primary RSA were included.

Results

Seven studies with 2149 total patients were included; 760 patients had a prior RCR and 1389 patients did not have a prior RCR. Prior failed RCR resulted in significantly lower postoperative ASES scores (mean difference [MD], −8.31 95% confidence interval [CI] −10.96, −5.66), less forward flexion (MD, −6.71 95%CI −11.75, −1.67), and higher VAS pain scores (MD; 0.85, 95% CI 0.47, 1.22) when compared to primary RSA. There were no significant differences in external rotation, complications rate, or rate of revision.

Conclusion

This study found that failed RCR prior to RSA was associated with lower functional outcomes scores, higher pain scores, and worse range of motion compared to primary RSA without prior RCR.
A Pragmatic Analysis of How North Carolina School Districts Aim to Differentiate for Gifted High School Students
Authors: Gilson Cindy M. , Alhibs Mashael , Haas Benna S. , Rearick Elisha , Garner Jamie D. , Kathman Lesli L. , Airhart Alexandria , Peplinski Josie
Published: August 2023

We conducted a document analysis study in response to a request from district-level gifted education specialists about additional services to support their gifted high school students. Given the fact that these students are diverse in many ways (e.g., readiness, interest areas, and backgrounds such as race, ethnicity, culture, gender identity, and sexual orientation), it is important they have access to a continuum of differentiated services. Therefore, we applied a pragmatic lens to examine the 2019–2022 North Carolina gifted education plans from one region to identify how districts proposed they would serve gifted high school students. Our analysis yielded six topical themes and related services: (1) acceleration, advanced courses, and programs; (2) differentiation: curriculum, instruction, and assessments; (3) enrichment; (4) collaboration and advising; (5) social and emotional; and (6) learners from diverse groups. We conclude with practical suggestions for educators and recommendations for future research in this under investigated area.
Technological advances in fibrin for tissue engineering
Authors: Sanz-Horta Raúl , Matesanz Ana , Gallardo Alberto , Reinecke Helmut , Jorcano José Luis , Acedo Pablo , Velasco Diego , Elvira Carlos
Published: August 2023

Fibrin is a promising natural polymer that is widely used for diverse applications, such as hemostatic glue, carrier for drug and cell delivery, and matrix for tissue engineering. Despite the significant advances in the use of fibrin for bioengineering and biomedical applications, some of its characteristics must be improved for suitability for general use. For example, fibrin hydrogels tend to shrink and degrade quickly after polymerization, particularly when they contain embedded cells. In addition, their poor mechanical properties and batch-to-batch variability affect their handling, long-term stability, standardization, and reliability. One of the most widely used approaches to improve their properties has been modification of the structure and composition of fibrin hydrogels. In this review, recent advances in composite fibrin scaffolds, chemically modified fibrin hydrogels, interpenetrated polymer network (IPN) hydrogels composed of fibrin and other synthetic or natural polymers are critically reviewed, focusing on their use for tissue engineering.
Digital screening method using social media advertising for the remote assessment of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Chen Fu-Yu B , Barbosa Daniel AN
Published: August 2023

Objective

Global trends, such as improving accessibility to healthcare services through the Internet, and the COVID-19 pandemic are among the driving factors in the adoption of digital health. This study hypothesized that digital solutions can reach and gather data from a large number of patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), a commonly misdiagnosed neuropathic facial pain syndrome, and quickly and fast-track their diagnosis by suggesting them to consult a neurologist. We developed an accessible digital screening tool based on patient symptoms and history to test this hypothesis and used social media advertisement to screen a general population for TN.

Methods

The standard diagnostic criteria, International Classification of Orofacial Pain, for facial pain is digitized as a web-based questionnaire that allows easy access to the evaluation for patients with suspected TN symptoms. Targeted search with relevant keywords and display campaigns on Google search engine and Facebook social media platform were used to reach large numbers of subjects. A report was autogenerated, which included a summary of a subject's symptoms, likely or likely not TN diagnosis, and information to seek appropriate medical assistance.

Results

The website was live for seven weeks and generated 240 screening questionnaire submissions, with a total spending of $2482. Forty-four subjects (18.3%) that reported typical symptoms of TN experienced unilateral and episodic pain in one of the trigeminal nerve regions.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated the feasibility of social media advertisement and digitally screening a general population for TN, gathering valuable clinical data, such as pain characteristics, through a web-based questionnaire. Based on these data, patients with similar symptoms of TN are suggested to consult a neurologist for diagnosis. This study provides a framework for using digital screening tools to improve the healthcare experience of patients who would spend several months before finding appropriate diagnosis for their specific conditions.
Efficacy of Melatonin for Inducing Sleep in Pediatric Electroencephalogram Recordings: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Holsakul Kornkamol , Poonmaksatit Sathida , Thiamrakij Pariyapa , Veeravigrom Montida
Published: August 2023

Objective To compare the efficacy of melatonin, melatonin with sleep deprivation, and chloral hydrate with sleep deprivation on sleep induction in Asian children. Methods: For this randomized single-blind controlled trial, we recruited 45 children aged 1–5 years and older who were not cooperative on electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, randomly allocated to three groups: melatonin (group A), melatonin and sleep deprivation (group B), or chloral hydrate and sleep deprivation (group C). Between-group comparisons were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results: Stage II sleep was achieved in 92.8%, 100%, and 100% of participants in groups A, B, and C, respectively. Sleep latency was significantly shorter in Group C than in Groups A (p  =  .022) and B (p  =  .027), while Group C had better sleep efficacy than Groups A (p  =  .02) and B (p  =  .04). Conclusion: Melatonin with sleep deprivation is less effective at inducing sleep than combined chloralhydrate and sleep deprivation.
Republication of “Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle in Athletes”
Authors: Kaiser Philip B. , Guss Daniel , DiGiovanni Christopher W.
Published: August 2023

Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are common injuries in athletes. Management differs considerably based on fracture location and predisposing factors. Repetitive loading of the foot and ankle in athletes should result in physiologic bone remodeling in accordance with Wolff’s law. However, when there is not sufficient time for complete healing to occur before additional loads are incurred, this process can instead lead to stress fracture. Assessment of the athlete’s training regimen and overall bone health is paramount to both the discovery and treatment of these injuries, although diagnosis is often delayed in the setting of normal-appearing initial radiographs. While most stress fractures of the foot or ankle can usually be treated nonoperatively with a period of activity modification, fractures in certain locations are considered “high risk” due to poor intrinsic healing and may warrant more proactive operative management.
Enhancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease research: the consortium for eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease researchers’ journey
Authors: Chehade Mirna , Furuta Glenn , Klion Amy , Abonia J Pablo , Aceves Seema , Bose Paroma , Collins Margaret H. , Davis Carla , Dellon Evan S. , Eickel Grant , Falk Gary , Gupta Sandeep , Hiremath Girish , Howard Amari , Jensen Elizabeth T. , Kesh Susamita , Khoury Paneez , Kocher Kendra , Kodroff Ellyn , Kyle Shay , Mak NaDea , McCoy Dawn , Mehta Pooja , Menard-Katcher Paul , Mukkada Vincent , Paliana Ally , Rothenberg Marc , Sable Kathleen , Schmitt Cara , Scott Melissa , Spergel Jonathan , Strobel Mary Jo , Wechsler Joshua B. , Yang Guang-Yu , Zicarelli Amy , Muir Amanda B. , Wright Benjamin L. , Bailey Dominique D.
Published: August 2023

In response to the social inequities that exist in health care, the NIH-funded Consortium of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Researchers (CEGIR) recently formed a diversity committee to examine systemic racism and implicit bias in the care and research of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs). Herein, we describe our process, highlighting milestones and issues addressed since the committee’s inception, which we hope will inspire other researchers to enhance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in their fields. Our journey began by establishing mission and vision statements to define the purpose of the committee. Regular discussion of diversity-related topics was incorporated into existing meetings and web-based materials were shared. This was followed by educational initiatives, including establishing a library of relevant publications and a speaker series to address DEIA topics. We then established a research agenda focused on the following actionable items: (1) to define what is known about the demographics of EGIDs by systematic review of population-based studies; (2) to develop a practical tool for reporting participant demographics to reduce bias in EGID literature; (3) to examine health disparities in the care of individuals with eosinophilic esophagitis who present to the emergency department with an esophageal food impaction; (4) to examine how access to a gastroenterologist affects the conclusions of published research examining the prevalence of pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis; and (5) to develop a model for examining the dimensions of diversity, and provide a framework for CEGIR’s ongoing projects and data capture. In addition to promoting consciousness of DEIA, this initiative has fostered inclusivity among CEGIR members and will continue to inspire positive changes in EGID care and research.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Against Women
Authors: Uzoho Ijeoma C. , Baptiste-Roberts Kesha , Animasahun Adeola , Bronner Yvonne
Published: August 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health crisis associated with adverse physical, psychological, economic, and social consequences. Studies on the impact of COVID-19 on IPV against women are scarce. This study aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on IPV against women. Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the MeSH terms intimate partner violence, COVID-19, and women. Exclusion criteria were male-partner, elder, and child abuse and studies that targeted specific groups such as cancer, HIV, and substance abuse. Two independent reviewers completed the title, abstract screening, and review of selected articles. Thirteen out of 647 articles met the inclusion criteria. IPV against women increased in nine countries (Spain, United States, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Turkey, Peru, Bangladesh, Czech Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo); one country showed no change in gender-based violence among adolescent girls and young women (Kenya); and one study reported a decrease in IPV reporting by victims (United States). Policies made to mitigate the pandemic created unintended consequences that exacerbated risk factors for IPV against women. Lessons learned from COVID-19 must be used to develop policy-level support and response services to mitigate IPV against women amid a pandemic and other human crises.
Potential of low-density genotype imputation for cost-efficient genomic selection for resistance to Flavobacterium columnare in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Fraslin Clémence , Robledo Diego , Kause Antti , Houston Ross D.
Published: August 2023

Background

Flavobacterium columnare is the pathogen agent of columnaris disease, a major emerging disease that affects rainbow trout aquaculture. Selective breeding using genomic selection has potential to achieve cumulative improvement of the host resistance. However, genomic selection is expensive partly because of the cost of genotyping large numbers of animals using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. The objective of this study was to assess the efficiency of genomic selection for resistance to F. columnare using in silico low-density (LD) panels combined with imputation. After a natural outbreak of columnaris disease, 2874 challenged fish and 469 fish from the parental generation (n = 81 parents) were genotyped with 27,907 SNPs. The efficiency of genomic prediction using LD panels was assessed for 10 panels of different densities, which were created in silico using two sampling methods, random and equally spaced. All LD panels were also imputed to the full 28K HD panel using the parental generation as the reference population, and genomic predictions were re-evaluated. The potential of prioritizing SNPs that are associated with resistance to F. columnare was also tested for the six lower-density panels.

Results

The accuracies of both imputation and genomic predictions were similar with random and equally-spaced sampling of SNPs. Using LD panels of at least 3000 SNPs or lower-density panels (as low as 300 SNPs) combined with imputation resulted in accuracies that were comparable to those of the 28K HD panel and were 11% higher than the pedigree-based predictions.

Conclusions

Compared to using the commercial HD panel, LD panels combined with imputation may provide a more affordable approach to genomic prediction of breeding values, which supports a more widespread adoption of genomic selection in aquaculture breeding programmes.
Higher cytotoxic activities of CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells from peripheral blood of early diagnosed lung cancer patients
Authors: Salem Mohamed Labib , Atia Ismail , Elmashad Nehal M.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Cytotoxic (CD8+) and natural killer (NK) cells play critical roles in anti-tumor immunity. Dysfunction in these cells is considered as one of the extrinsic mechanisms for tumor relapse.

Aim

We aimed in this study to assess cytotoxic activities of CD8 + T and NK cells in the peripheral blood from lung cancer patients before and after induction of chemotherapy.

Subjects and methods

Healthy (n = 5) volunteers and lung cancer patients (n = 15:5 before, 5 during, and 5 after induction of chemotherapy) were recruited. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the numbers of CD8 + T cells, NK and CD56+T cells and their intracellular expression of granzyme B (GzB) in fresh peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and after 72 h of their culture in vitro and stimulation with 5 µg/ml Concanavalin A (Con A) and 50ng/ml IL-2). In addition, the plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines were measured using luminex.

Results

After culture, significant increases in the number of GzB expressing cells gated on CD3+, CD4+, CD8 + and NKCD8 + T cells in the PBMCs from lung cancer patients before induction of chemotherapy as compared to control individuals as well as patients during and after induction of chemotherapy. Serum levels of IL-1 and CXCL8 in patients before induction of chemotherapy showed 37- and 40-fold increases, respectively, as compared to control individuals. Both GzB expression and cytokines levels in patients during and after chemotherapy were similar.

Conclusion

Polyclonal stimulation of PBMCs can restore the cytolytic activities of cytotoxic CD8 and NK cells from lung cancer patients even after chemotherapy.
Safety and efficacy of total thoracoscopic surgery for patients with tricuspid regurgitation and reduced right ventricular function after left heart valves replacement: a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Lin Zhiqin , Xu Zheng , Chen Xiujun , Lin Feng , Chen Liangwan , Dai Xiaofu
Published: August 2023

Background

Tricuspid valve surgery is the standard treatment for tricuspid valve disease refractory to pharmacologic therapy. However, patients with tricuspid regurgitation after previous left heart valves replacement with reduced right ventricular (RV) function are at greater risk of surgery. We compared the clinical outcomes of tricuspid valve replacement in this subgroup of patients through mini-thoracotomy and conventional full-sternotomy approach.

Methods

We identified 44 patients at our institution with tricuspid regurgitation and reduced right ventricular function after left heart valves replacement who underwent either total thoracoscopic tricuspid valve replacement (T-TVR) or conventional tricuspid valve replacement (C-TVR) from December 2014 and May 2021. Patient clinical characteristics, hospital course, and postoperative changes in RV function were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed.

Results

Baseline characteristics between T-TVR (n = 25) and C-TVR (n = 19) were comparable including a high incidence of liver dysfunction and renal insufficiency. There were no statistically differences between the two groups in terms of hospital mortality (8.0% vs. 21.1%, P = .211). Patients in the T-TVR group had less total drainage volume (201.60 ± 77.05 ml vs. 614.74 ± 182.31 ml, p < .001), required fewer postoperative blood product transfusions, and had a lower total length of hospital stay (15(15–16) vs. 16(14–17) days, P = .019) compared to the C-TVR group. T-TVR was associated with better and faster recovery of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and right ventricle fractional area change (RVFAC) (adjusted β = 0.154, 95% CI: 0.037 to 0.271, p = .010 and adjusted β = 0.003, 95% CI: 0.000 to 0.005, p = .024; respectively) within the first 3 months postoperatively compared with C-TVR.

Conclusions

T-TVR represents a viable alternative to current surgical strategies as a potentially sicker cohort demonstrated similar hospital mortality compared to conventional surgery, with reduced length of hospital stay, fewer blood transfusions, and more favorable in promoting RV functional recovery in the early period. Future prospective, randomized-controlled trials with longer follow-up durations are needed to validate these findings.