bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Effect of Combined Antibiotic and Methanolic Extracts of Withania somnifera and Catharanthus roseus against MDR Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi
Authors: Chauhan Neha , Khan Azhar , Farooq Umar
Published: August 2023

Typhoid has become the most neglected and majorly affecting disease of tropical and subtropical countries, including India, and is among the most important global health problems, as the emergence of multidrug resistance has shut down the effect of antimicrobial agents and makes it difficult to control the bacteria inside the host. Hence, there is a great need to develop some natural-based drugs, which will be new promising natural therapeutic interventions with high efficacy and lesser side effects in comparison to synthetic drugs already available for typhoid treatment. The present study completely focused on the synergistic effect of bioactive constituents of medicinal plants in combination to synthetic drugs for enhancing the bacterial eradication mechanism. The methanolic extracts of 25 medicinal plants were screened for their antisalmonella effect and out of which only 2 plants were studied further on the basis of their high effectiveness against 17 MDR isolates using well diffusion assay and MIC/MBC determination. The synergistic activity was assessed with two nonantibiotics (ibuprofen and paracetamol) and 3 antibiotics (ceftazidime chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim) using methods of growth inhibitory indices (GIIs) and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI). The highly effective methanolic extracts were of W. somnifera and C. roseus, and the synergism was obtained in terms of GIIs and FICI values of 0.9 and 0.3 and 0.9 and 0.5, respectively, fulfilling the criteria for both extracts, respectively. The results for combinations of plant extracts and antibiotics ceftazidime, trimethoprim, and chloramphenicol and nonantibiotics (analgesic drugs) ibuprofen and paracetamol showed good synergistic activity (100%, 88%, 50%, 45%, and 35%, respectively) against the MDR isolates of S. Typhi. The present study also suggests that in the future, combined treatment with the antibiotics and the bioactive compounds can enhance the immune system to perform better action against the external pathogens as well as in the treatment of internal pathogens, and the combinations will be the successful immune modulators.
Efficiency and Safety of Temperatures Management in Aortic Arch Surgery: A System Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yu Yang , Ding Zheng , Shi Enyi , Gu Tianxiang
Published: August 2023

Objective. The study evaluates the safety and efficacy of hypothermic cardiac arrest (HCA) at various temperatures in aortic arch surgeries. Methods. We conducted a literature search in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. For single proportion assessments, we employed fixed-effect and random-effect models in the general linear mixture model and the inverse variance model for other computations. We analyzed factors such as age, sex, operation time, and postoperative complications, with subgroup and metaregression analyses. We used funnel plots to depict potential publication bias. Results. Our research incorporated 43 papers with 34,797 cases. HCA temperatures were divided into five groups (A: 30–32°C, B: 28–30°C, C: 26–28°C, D: 24–26°C, and E: <24°C). There is no statistically significant difference in myocardial ischemia time (

P

 = 0.90) and isolated cerebral perfusion (ICP) time (

P

 = 0.95). Groups A and C have the best performance in avoiding postoperative complications including transient nerve injury (TNI), permanent nerve injury (PNI), renal failure (RF), and mortality occurrence rate. Group A has the lowest occurrence rate in PNI (3%) and mortality (3%). Group C has the lowest RF incidence (5%). Conclusion. Maintaining temperatures of 30–32°C in en bloc anastomosis or 26–28°C during arch replacement with separate grafts can significantly reduce complications including PNI, RF, and in-hospital mortality.
Reduced DEFA5 Expression and STAT3 Activation Underlie the Submucosal Invasion of Early Gastric Cancers
Authors: Nagao Sayaka , Takahashi Yu , Denda Tamami , Tanaka Yukihisa , Miura Yuko , Mizutani Hiroya , Ohki Daisuke , Sakaguchi Yoshiki , Yakabi Seiichi , Tsuji Yosuke , Niimi Keiko , Kakushima Naomi , Yamamichi Nobutake , Ota Yasunori , Koike Kazuhiko , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Submucosal invasion is a core hallmark of early gastric cancer (EGC) with poor prognosis. However, the molecular mechanism of the progression from intramucosal gastric cancer (IMGC) to early submucosal-invasive gastric cancer (SMGC) is not fully understood. The objective of this study was to identify genes and pathways involved in the submucosal invasion in EGC using comprehensive gene expression analysis. Methods: Gene expression profiling was performed for eight cases of IMGC and eight cases of early SMGC with submucosal invasion ≥500 μm. To validate the findings of gene expression analysis and to examine the gene expression pattern in tissues, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed for 50 cases of IMGC and SMGC each. Results: Gene expression analysis demonstrated that the expression levels of small intestine-specific genes were significantly decreased in SMGC. Among them, defensin alpha 5 (DEFA5) was the most downregulated gene in SMGC, which was further validated in SMGC tissues by IHC staining. Gene set enrichment analysis showed a strong association between SMGC, the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, and the upregulation of STAT3-activating cytokines. The expression of phosphorylated STAT3 was significant in the nucleus of tumor cells in SMGC tissues but not in areas expressing DEFA5. Conclusion: The results of this study strongly suggest that the downregulation of DEFA5 and the activation of STAT3 play a significant role in the submucosal invasion of EGC.
Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles From Preeclamptic Pregnancies Impair Vascular Endothelial Function via Lectin-Like Oxidized LDL Receptor-1
Authors: Villalobos-Labra Roberto , Liu Ricky , Spaans Floor , Sáez Tamara , Semeria Maitret Tamara , Quon Anita , Sawamura Tatsuya , Cooke Christy-Lynn M. , Davidge Sandra T.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Preeclampsia is a complex syndrome that includes maternal vascular dysfunction. Syncytiotrophoblast-derived extracellular vesicles from preeclampsia placentas (preeclampsia-STBEVs) were shown to induce endothelial dysfunction, but an endothelial transmembrane mediator is still unexplored. The LOX-1 (lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1) is a transmembrane scavenger receptor that can cause endothelial dysfunction, and its expression is increased in the endothelium of preeclampsia women. In this study, we hypothesized that LOX-1 mediates the effects of preeclampsia-STBEVs on endothelial function.

METHODS:

Preeclampsia-STBEVs were collected by perfusion of placentas from women with preeclampsia and in vitro and ex vivo endothelial cell function were assessed.

RESULTS:

In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, inhibition of LOX-1 with LOX-1 blocking antibody (TS20) reduced the uptake of preeclampsia-STBEVs (61.3±8.8%). TS20 prevented the activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase, a kinase downstream of LOX-1) and reduced the activation of NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells; 21.1±8.0%) and nitrative stress (23.2±10.3%) that was induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Vascular function was assessed by wire myography in isolated mesenteric arteries from pregnant rats that were incubated overnight with preeclampsia-STBEVs±TS20. TS20 prevented endothelium-dependent vasodilation impairment induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Nitric oxide contribution to the relaxation was reduced by preeclampsia-STBEVs, which was prevented by TS20. Superoxide dismutase or apocynin, an inhibitor of NOX (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase), restored the impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation in arteries exposed to preeclampsia-STBEVs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Taken together, our findings demonstrate that LOX-1 mediates the endothelial dysfunction induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Our study further expands on the mechanisms that may lead to adverse outcomes in preeclampsia and proposes LOX-1 as a potential target for future interventions.
Characterisation of the neonatal brain using myelin-sensitive magnetisation transfer imaging
Authors: Cábez Manuel Blesa , Vaher Kadi , York Elizabeth N. , Galdi Paola , Sullivan Gemma , Stoye David Q. , Hall Jill , Corrigan Amy E. , Quigley Alan J. , Waldman Adam D. , Bastin Mark E. , Thrippleton Michael J. , Boardman James P.
Published: August 2023

A cardinal feature of the encephalopathy of prematurity is dysmaturation of developing white matter and subsequent hypomyelination. Magnetisation transfer imaging (MTI) offers surrogate markers for myelination, including magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR) and magnetisation transfer saturation (MTsat). Using data from 105 neonates, we characterise MTR and MTsat in the developing brain and investigate how these markers are affected by gestational age at scan and preterm birth. We explore correlations of the two measures with fractional anisotropy (FA), radial diffusivity (RD) and T1w/T2w ratio which are commonly used markers of white matter integrity in early life. We used two complementary analysis methods: voxel-wise analysis across the white matter skeleton, and tract-of-interest analysis across 16 major white matter tracts. We found that MTR and MTsat positively correlate with gestational age at scan. Preterm infants at term-equivalent age had lower values of MTsat in the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum, while MTR was higher in central white matter regions, the corticospinal tract and the uncinate fasciculus. Correlations of MTI metrics with other MRI parameters revealed that there were moderate positive correlations between T1w/T2w and MTsat and MTR at voxel level, but at tract level FA had stronger positive correlations with these metrics. RD had the strongest correlations with MTI metrics, particularly with MTsat in major white matter tracts. The observed changes in MTI metrics are consistent with an increase in myelin density during early postnatal life, and lower myelination and cellular/axonal density in preterm infants at term-equivalent age compared to term controls. Furthermore, correlations between MTI-derived features and conventional measures from diffusion MRI provide new understanding about the contribution of myelination to non-specific imaging metrics that are often used to characterise early brain development.
The China Belt and Road Initiative: The Struggles and Opportunities for the SMEs Development of an Emerging Economy
Authors: Senadjki Abdelhak , Awal Iddrisu Mohammed , Ogbeibu Samuel , Nachef Tameur , Senadjki Mourad
Published: August 2023

Following the economic crisis in 2008, several Algerian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in key economic sectors were negatively affected. More than 30,000 companies closed in a single year and more than 70,000 jobs were lost as a result of the financial crisis. These negative effects led to several bankruptcies and a deterioration in business management. The government’s efforts to address the crisis include an important measure to promote SME development under the China–Algeria Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, there are divided concerns with regard to the impact of the BRI, which seems to reflect on both prospects and challenges for SME development. Therefore, this study aims to explore the struggles and opportunities of BRI projects in the development of local SMEs in Algeria. In this study, a combination of face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions are conducted with 20 participants. The target group includes general managers, CEOs, entrepreneurs and managers of SMEs. All interviews were recorded face-to-face, later transcribed, translated and thematically analysed. The results show that the BRI has positive impacts on SME development, which reflect on economic opportunities, namely, trade partnerships, market efficiency and productivity, and improve employment opportunities. However, the dominance of Chinese enterprises and the lack of appropriate enterprise policies are among the challenges that hinder the rapid development of SMEs. Therefore, policy reform is needed to ensure the enforcement of foreign enterprise policies that limit the dominance of foreign enterprises and instead encourage the expansion of local enterprises to promote socio-economic growth.
Risk Factors Associated With Urban Gang Membership in Juveniles: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Rojo Marina , Talavera-Velasco Beatriz , Luceño-Moreno Lourdes
Published: August 2023

The involvement of juveniles in urban gangs has increased in different territories. Consequently, government resources have been invested to dismantle and contain such gangs. The aim of this paper was to analyze studies that relate risk factors with the increasing integration of juveniles into urban gangs. Nine scientific articles were included, out of a total of 394 publications. Different risk factors significantly related with the integration of juveniles into urban gangs were identified: social disorganization, unsafety neighborhood, school failure, absenteeism, and failure to pass assessment standards, involvement of family members in criminal acts, depression, substance use, low self-esteem, rebelliousness and elevated feelings of leadership, social disadvantage, or lack of resources. The risk factors analyzed should be integrated into prevention programs.
‘No way. You will not make [insert country here] home’: Anti-asylum discursive transfer from Australia to Europe
Authors: Geibel Madeleine , Fozdar Farida , McGaughey Fiona
Published: August 2023

This article analyses the ways Australia’s overseas ‘public information campaign’ on asylum based around the phrase ‘No way. You will not make Australia home’ has been adopted by far-right movements in Europe. Considering examples of anti-asylum online video campaigns and activism in a range of European countries, we note semiotic and discursive similarities with the Australian campaign. We discuss the implications of such discursive transfer from official Australian government policy to far-right campaigns promoting a blatantly racist agenda in Europe. We also consider the broader question of the fundamental challenge to international law inherent in the promulgation of information that denies the right to seek asylum in Refugee Convention signatory states.
The intellectual biography of Syed Farid Alatas: Hegemonic orientations, epistemic decolonisation and the School of Autonomous Knowledge
Authors: Moosavi Leon , Alatas Syed Farid
Published: August 2023

Syed Farid Alatas is a Malaysian sociologist who has been highly influential in discussions about decolonising knowledge. He has also continued the legacy of his esteemed father, Syed Hussein Alatas, by furthering ‘the School of Autonomous Knowledge’ in the Malay Archipelago and beyond. This article presents a wide-ranging, comprehensive and rich dialogue between Farid and Leon Moosavi. In this conversation, pertinent questions are asked: How does Farid’s approach to decolonising knowledge differ from other decolonial scholars? What exactly does Farid mean when he talks of ‘intellectual imperialism’, ‘alternative discourses’ and ‘academic dependency’? This dialogue also explores Farid’s extensive engagement with the Islamic/Muslim sphere, including topics such as: Ibn Khaldun, Muslim revivalism, Muslim sectarianism and the Islamisation of knowledge. The discussion also explores some potential critiques of Farid’s intellectual contributions with challenging questions: Can Farid’s theoretical ideals be applied in ‘the real world’ or are they confined to an audience of intellectual elites? Is Farid anti-Western? Or, actually, does his work inadvertently fall into the trap of Westerncentrism? This article offers a unique insight into the intellectual biography of one of the most notable social theorists of the current era.
Amplify or Suppress? Top Leader Perspective on External Stakeholders' Influence on Organizational Change Outcomes
Authors: Meyer Christine B. , Stensaker Inger G.
Published: August 2023

Based on a collaborative auto-ethnographic approach, this paper examines how external stakeholders can influence organizational change processes and outcomes in a public sector context. Existing change literature suggests that stakeholder management and collaboration are critical for achieving change results. Although the role of internal stakeholders has been documented, we know less about how external stakeholders can influence planned change. To explore this, we adopted a variant of collaborative auto-ethnography in which the first-hand experiences of a top manager combined with extensive media coverage were retrospectively made sense of through joint reflection and theorizing with an outside academic. Drawing on stakeholder theory and the concept of momentum for change, we show how external stakeholders can either amplify or suppress the momentum for change, thereby ultimately affecting goal attainment. The slightly adjusted CAE methodology offers new opportunities for academic/practitioner collaborations to advance change practice and theory.
Geopolitics, Conflict and Narratives: An Assessment of Kashmir Conflict after the Abrogation of Article 370
Authors: Kumar Aryal Saroj , Muneer Sania
Published: August 2023

Kashmir, a triangularly contested region between India, Pakistan and China, is administratively divided between India and Pakistan; it has hitherto sparked three major wars and countless small-scale military actions regarding the contest over the region. On 5 August 2019, the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which conferred a special status on Jammu and Kashmir in the realm of peripheral governance and autonomy, altered the geopolitical and social dynamics of the region. The government has been floating the narrative that the dissolution of this article was a result of numerous inputs, with the consent of Kashmiris and with facilitation from the elected state government, over the years to achieve the objectives of integration, administrative ease and good governance. However, the manner in which the abrogation of Article 370 had been carried out under heavy militarization of the region and imprisonment of all the Kashmiri politicians was far from amicable. Furthermore, in the aftermath of the abrogation, the Kashmir valley has witnessed political instability, human rights violation and alteration of indigenous identity by forced migration and revision of exclusive land rights. The Indian government’s portrayal of abrogation as the biggest success contrast with ground realities of a militarized life in Kashmir. This paper, relying on both the primary and secondary resources including correspondence with Kashmir scholars, aims to assess the contemporary geopolitics of the Kashmir conflict after the abrogation of Article 370 by examining the reasons behind and the impact of this decision on the Kashmiri people. The research concludes that while the abrogation of Article 370 may have temporarily secured India’s hold over the region, it has exacerbated the human rights situation in Kashmir and further tensed the geopolitical tightrope between India, Pakistan, China and other international players.
Tragic performances? How unions stage their online identity
Authors: Pasquier Vincent , Lévesque Christian , Hennebert Marc-Antonin
Published: August 2023

With the rise of social media, unions are increasingly performing their identity on the digital scene. While this displacement has generated much academic speculation, the literature still largely ignores how unions concretely stage ‘who they are’ on social media. This article elaborates upon Goffman's approach to identity performance by analysing how eight Quebecois trade unions present themselves online. The findings highlight four types of online identity performance: self-caricaturing bureaucracy, fading service provider, opponent polarizing and community narcissizing identity performance. The article makes two main contributions to the literature. First, it enriches debates about unions’ use of social media by showing that digital technologies may not be considered as universally good, bad or neutral for unions’ online identities. Second, it contributes to discussions about the nature of unions’ identities by highlighting how communicational spaces help to shape them.
How Do Grandiose and Vulnerable Narcissism Relate to Psychological Symptoms?: The Role of Emotions
Authors: Akıncı İrem , Gençöz Tülin
Published: August 2023

Studies indicated a distinction between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism regarding their relationships with psychological symptoms. Internal processes occurring in grandiose and vulnerable narcissism must be considered to better understand the nature of this distinction. The current study aimed to investigate the role of self-conscious emotions (i.e., trait shame, guilt, pride) and anger (i.e., trait anger, internalized and externalized anger) in the association between the two types of narcissism (i.e., grandiose and vulnerable narcissism) and psychological symptoms. Five hundred and fifty-nine adult participants completed the self-report measures to assess for grandiose and vulnerable narcissism, emotions, and psychological symptoms. The results of parallel bootstrapping method indicated that individuals with grandiose traits had fewer psychological symptoms through the role of trait pride. Trait anger and externalization of anger toward others, on the other hand, contributed to the relationship between grandiose traits and heightened psychological symptoms. Vulnerable narcissism was found to be associated with increased psychological symptoms through the role of trait shame, pride, anger, and both internalized and externalized anger. These results indicated that although both forms of narcissism have an anger-prone structure, their distinctive relations with shame, pride, and suppressed anger may indicate different underlying dynamics. Possible implications for practice and suggestions for future studies have also been highlighted.
The tensile properties and repair behavior of glass fiber reinforced polymer using resin pre-coating technology
Authors: Yu Xiaopei , Shen Wei , Zhu Lvtao , Natsuki Toshiaki
Published: August 2023

Resin pre-coating technology is widely used in all aspects of composite materials, especially in the repair of composite materials. The pre-coating is formed by combining acetone with the resin, which is diffused and cured by the epoxy adhesive at the same time. It acts as an interlock to prevent the interface from debonding and to fill in the damaged cracks. The capillary action of acetone allows the resin to permeate the cracks in the fiber damage layers, thus filling the cracks and completing the repair. The pre-coating solutions of 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 25 wt%, 35 wt%, and 45 wt% resin were applied to damaged areas respectively, and cured at 60°C for 7 days. The crack filling effect was observed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM). At the same concentration, the effect of prolonged repair time was also studied. The other two repair times were 14 days and 30 days respectively. In addition, the tensile properties of the materials before and after repair were tested and compared. The results showed that 25 wt% resin pre-coating had the best repair performance after 7 days, with a repair rate of 27%, which was 22% higher than the conventional repair without resin pre-coating. However, the repair effect became more obvious after the extension of repair time, and the repair effect of 25 wt% resin pre-coating reached 44% after 30 days curing. Therefore, it was found that the resin can fully penetrate the cracks in the damaged area with resin pre-coating technology, and 25 wt% resin pre-coating solution is the best choice.
Measuring Productivity and Relative Efficiency of Public Tertiary Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospitals in Hubei, China
Authors: Liu Xinliang , Jia Changli , Cheng Jiahui , Wang Xin , Wang Quan , Li Hao
Published: August 2023

Improving the productivity and relative efficiency of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) hospitals is pivotal for hospital managers and policymakers to optimize the utilization of TCM resources in China. This study aimed to measure the productivity and relative efficiency of public tertiary TCM hospitals in Hubei Province. The input and output indicators data were extracted from the Health Commission of Hubei Province (HCHP) from 2019 to 2021. The Bootstrap-Malmquist-DEA model was employed to measure the productivity and relative efficiency of the hospitals. The statistical significance was set at P < .05. The numbers of total diagnostic patients and discharged patients declined by 23.44% and 28.34% from 2019 to 2020, and then increased by 25.76% and 20.44% respectively from 2020 to 2021. The average bias-corrected technical efficiency (TE) scores of the TCM hospitals from 2019 to 2021 were 0.8391, 0.8048, and 0.8559, indicating good efficiency. The average total factor productivity (TFP) in 2020 and 2021 decreased compared to that in 2019, with scores of 0.7479 and 0.8996, respectively. Between 2019 and 2020, the TFP changes among 19 out of 21 (90.48%) TCM hospitals and the technological changes (TC) among 20 out of 21 (95.24%) were less than 1.0000 ( P < .05). The TFP changes of 17 out of 21 (80.95%) TCM hospitals and the TC of 20 out of 21 (95.24%) were less than 1.0000 ( P < .05) between 2019 and 2021. COVID-19 might have constrained the provision of healthcare services by the public tertiary TCM hospitals in Hubei Province. Priority should be given to the utilization of healthcare resources, performance evaluation, information system strengthening, and internal hospital management to boost technical efficiency. TCM hospitals need to focus further on technology innovation to improve their technological progress.
In Search of Ethics Infrastructure in U.S. Local Governments: Building Blocks or Dead End?
Authors: Demir Tansu , Reddick Christopher G. , Perlman Bruce J.
Published: August 2023

The literature in public administration has advanced various propositions to promote ethical behavior. Local governments have undertaken various efforts in that direction. Those efforts are considered critical for building ethical leadership and culture in the long run. Based on a literature review and use of Social Learning Theory, we identify four building blocks of an ethics infrastructure for public organizations. Employing a comprehensive survey of local governments, this paper shows that displaying awareness and knowledge of ethics, enforcing rules and norms, demonstrating policy support for ethical behavior, and incentivizing the right behaviors are key building blocks of ethics infrastructure that still need improvement in local governments. The reality of ethics infrastructure revealed by the survey is far from the idealism promoted in the literature. We discuss the results and offer several insights and remedies.
The Treatment of Otorrhea in Children with Cleft Palate: An Institutional Review
Authors: Nogan Stephen , Phillips Katie , Grischkan Jonathan
Published: August 2023

We conducted a retrospective observational chart review to characterize otorrhea in patients with cleft palate (CP) after tympanostomy tube placement in terms of the bacteria profile, treatment effectiveness, and overall disease burden. A total of 157 patients over 6 years were reviewed. Fifty of the 157 patients (31.8%) experienced postoperative otorrhea. Of the 50 patients with otorrhea, all received topical antibiotics, 30 received oral antibiotics, and 12 received povidone-iodine irrigations. The average duration of otorrhea was 5.2 months for patients with povidone-iodine irrigations and 8.5 months for those without povidone-iodine irrigations. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly cultured microorganism. The average number of total healthcare visits over a 12-month period was 13.6 per patient. We conclude that postoperative otorrhea is a common problem after tympanostomy tube placement in children with CP and places a significant burden on these patients and the healthcare system. The bacteriologic profile may be different in this population compared with the non-CP population with otorrhea after tympanostomy, and a search for more effective treatment options is warranted, including further investigation into povidone-iodine irrigations.
LGBTQ+ Identity Affirmation in International Schools: An Ethical Framework for Educators
Authors: Meadows Emily
Published: August 2023

Educators are increasingly facing questions around LGBTQ+ equity and belonging in their practice, and they may struggle to identify a position that does justice to the weight of these matters. Those with limited training and experience in LGBTQ+ equity work may find that relying on popular opinion or a search engine to develop answers feels unprofessional at best, and potentially dangerous at worst. This article proposes instead a conceptual framework with which to consider four prominent ethical lenses that educators may use in evaluating LGBTQ+ matters: professional, cultural, legal, and health and safety. The purpose of the framework is to apply these lenses to support equity, belonging, and identity affirmation for LGBTQ+ students. Each lens is laid out with relevant research and is designed with the specific context of international schools in mind, including those operating within socially conservative settings. The framework serves as a practical tool for conscientious educators seeking guidance to carefully and intentionally address varying perspectives around the sensitive and important topic of LGBTQ+ identity affirmation in schools.
A Systematic Review of Special Educational Interventions for Student Attention: Executive Function and Digital Technology in Primary School
Authors: Gunnars Fabian
Published: August 2023

Digital technology in primary education can both be distracting and increase attentiveness. Many students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) have difficulties with skills that address attention, and teachers are expected to provide support. Such skills are referred to as Executive Function (EF) in neuroscience, relating to self-regulation, attention shifting, and inhibition of behavior. This systematic literature review outlines research on primary education during 2000–2022 that relates students’ EF and digital technology through empirical data and suggested SEN-inclusive educational interventions. 288 full-text journal articles were assessed, and 26 were included for analysis. Findings include common game-based solutions for EF and SEN support, enabling explicit goals, short teaching activities, and recorded outcomes. Other examples include EF skills training and classroom management with digital monitoring devices. A substantially increased research interest during 2021–2022 was observed. Aspects needing further research are discussed, such as more special education views with cost-effective behavioral approaches.
Happier When (We Think) We All Get Along: Satisfaction With Perceived Relationships Among Family Members and Parents’ Mental Health
Authors: Kincaid Reilly
Published: August 2023

Harmonious family relationships are integral to well-being. Given that family relationships are fundamentally interdependent, parents’ well-being may be shaped not only by satisfaction with their own relationships with their family members but also by their perceptions of their family members’ relationships with each other. This study examines how parents’ mental health is shaped by satisfaction with (their perceptions of) the relationships among their children (i.e., perceived children–sibling relationships) and between their spouses and their children (i.e., perceived spouse–child relationships). Analyses using HILDA survey data ( N = 43,913 person-years) suggest that parents’ satisfaction with their children’s relationships with each other and their spouse’s relationship with their children are indeed associated with better mental health, primarily through their roles in shaping satisfaction with parent–child and spousal relationships, respectively. Parent–child and spouse–child relationship satisfaction are especially important to mothers’ mental health. Findings contribute to family systems research and offer practical implications for promoting family well-being.
Implementation of Diabetes Education and Support in Appalachia
Authors: Walker Ayron E. , Yost Kasey , Olfert Melissa
Published: August 2023

Limited research on diabetes education and support implementation in Appalachia, which is a critical knowledge gap considering barriers to care, and high prevalence rates. The aim was to understand what each facility is providing regarding diabetes education and services within West Virginia. This study reports cognitive interview qualitative findings from a multi-methods study. Individuals were recruited through an online search to identify clinics, organizations, and hospital staff that provided diabetes education in the state of West Virginia. Eligible participants were individuals who facilitated and managed diabetes education and support in counties of West Virginia. The interviews followed an 11-item interview guide, approved, and reviewed by a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care Education Specialist in West Virginia. All qualitative data from the interviews were hand-coded using grounded theory, by two researchers. 15 participating organizations from the state of West Virginia were included and described three phenomena: Diabetes Education Implementation (differences in: evaluation measures, modality, delivery format, topical areas); Barriers to Care (staffing, lack of training, evaluation, loss of research partnerships and funding); and Facilitators to Care (community-based involvement, interdisciplinary collaboration, capacity building (trainings). There are concerns with program drift and “risky” adaptations such as inconsistent evaluative measures, lack of training for program facilitators, variety of delivery formats, and content material. Findings recommend more alignment in program delivery to better implementation. Further studies should assess patient experiences with implemented diabetes education programs in West Virginia to further support the current research findings.
Year in review: Highlights in ECLS Innovation and Technology, Anno 2022-2023
Authors: Vercaemst Leen
Published: August 2023

Background

In the field of extracorporeal life support (ECLS), the rapid influx of novel technologies and innovative techniques presents an ongoing challenge for professionals to stay informed about these advancements. To address this issue and ensure the ECLS community remains up-to-date, we have compiled a concise overview of recent technological innovations in ECLS.

Purpose

This overview focuses primarily on academically investigated and reported advancements in the ECLS domain. It underscores the importance of transparent communication regarding technological limitations in healthcare and advocates for collaboration between medical professionals and engineers to elevate patient care.

Research Design

This manuscript presents a compilation of recent technological advancements in ECLS, with an emphasis on innovations that have been academically explored and documented. The research approach involves gathering information from scholarly sources, reports, and studies to provide a comprehensive overview.

Study Sample

The study sample comprises a diverse range of recent technological innovations in the field of extracorporeal life support (ECLS). These innovations span various aspects of ECLS technology and have been investigated and reported on within the academic literature.

Analysis

Data collection involved systematically reviewing academic literature, reports, and studies related to recent technological advancements in ECLS. The collected information was then analyzed to identify common trends, notable developments, and the impact of these innovations on patient care.

Results

The compilation highlights several significant technological innovations within the ECLS domain. Notable advancements include the development of new dual lumen cannulae, innovative devices for left ventricular (LV) unloading, lightweight ECMO transport systems, streamlined driving consoles to facilitate patient mobility, intricate systems for extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR), standardized driving consoles for networking, and non-invasive circuit pressure monitoring. Some of these innovations have obtained regulatory approvals for distribution in the United States and/or authorization for the European market.

Conclusions

The manuscript underscores the critical role of collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and industry in driving recent technological innovations within the ECLS field. It emphasizes the necessity of open communication about technological limitations and the potential for repurposing established technologies in novel ways. However, the resourcefulness of physicians in repurposing devices requires validation through comprehensive scientific and technical investigation. Thus, fostering broader collaboration among stakeholders is recommended to ensure the rigorous evaluation and validation of new applications for established ECLS devices.
Evaluation of Rail Freight Line Reactivations in Small and Mid-Size Communities Using Data from Federal Railroad Administration’s Grade Crossing Inventory
Authors: Schwieterman Joseph P. , Fischer Lauren A. , Woodward Allison
Published: August 2023

This study explores the characteristics and performance of projects that have rehabilitated dormant rail to allow for the restoration of freight service to communities with populations of 500 or more. Drawing on data from Federal Railroad Administration’s Grade Crossing Inventory, it assesses the locational and operational characteristics of twenty-seven lines identified by the study team as having been reactivated between 2004 and 2022 after three or more years of inactivity. The results show that sixty-one communities regained service, and more than half are on lines that have attracted enough traffic for public funding to sustain daily train operations. In most instances, the number of train movements per day is two or more, although a few have seen a decline in the number of movements, and timetable speeds are commonly limited to 10 or 20 mph. The large number of instances in which operations are restricted to the bottom end of this speed range and the thirteen accidents that occurred at grade crossings in the communities over the final 6 years of the study period suggest that more investment is needed before higher-density operations become feasible. Moreover, a variety of factors may result in the hazard indices used by state governments to prioritize grade crossing investment understating the risks of train activity on reactivated lines. Nearly three-fourths of grade crossings have only passive warning equipment.
Psychometric Properties of the Turkish Version of the Teacher Academic Optimism Scale
Authors: Karataş Erdem , Özdemir Murat
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to adapt Teacher Academic Optimism Scale-Secondary (TAOS-S) to Turkish culture. A total of 453 public school teachers in Turkey participated in the study. We examined the validity, reliability, and measurement invariance of the scale across school levels. The results indicated good internal consistency of the TAOS, suggesting a good measure to assess teacher academic optimism. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the three-dimensional individual teacher academic optimism construct showed a good fit with strong reliability evidence. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis results indicated both configural and metric invariance was observed across school levels; however, scalar invariance was only partially confirmed. Overall, our results show the TAOS has sound psychometric properties, is culturally and linguistically acceptable, and is equally effective in assessing the academic optimism of Turkish teachers.
On a Personal Note: A Music Therapist's Reflections on Working with those who are Living with a Terminal Illness
Authors: Hartley Nigel Alan
Published: August 2023

Music therapists are constantly called upon to justify their work through research projects and evaluation processes. Rarely do we get the opportunity to talk personally about our work, the effects it has on us as music therapists, indeed, as human beings. This paper traces my own journey as a music therapist working with the terminally ill. Using audio extracts of music improvised with patients at the end of their lives, the concept of “attention” in music is addressed and explored. The paper will investigate:

a) What is the difference between the quality of attention that is available to ourselves and our patients “in” music, as opposed to other ways of being together?;

b) What does musical experience, particularly when achieved through improvisation, enable us and our patients to be that we cannot achieve in other ways?;

c) Can “being in music” with another person fulfil a sense of longing that is evident in people at the end of their lives? In her book Waiting For God, Simone Weil suggests, ‘Those who are unhappy have no need for anything else in this world other than people capable of giving them their attention…” (1). Can the improvisation of music offer a unique and uncomplicated medium for being close?
Bringing Music to Life: A Study of Music Therapy and Palliative Care Experiences in a Cancer Hospital
Authors: O'callaghan Clare
Published: August 2023

A music therapy research study aimed at understanding patients’, visitors’ and staff members’ experiences of a music therapy program in a cancer hospital over a three-month period is described. Respondents’ answers to brief open-ended questions, as well as the music therapist researcher's interpretations of the program's relevance, were examined using thematic analysis based on grounded theory. ATLAS.ti software supported data management and analysis. Themes encapsulating 128 patients’ reflections about music therapy were delineated and substantiate how music therapy can support palliative care aims throughout the cancer illness trajectory.
Weaving a Circle: A Relaxation Program using Imagery and Music
Authors: Nicholson Kathryn
Published: August 2023

This article examines the imagery and music components of the relaxation program at the Vancouver Centre of the British Columbia Cancer Agency. An outline of the objectives and design of the experiential portion of the sessions is accompanied by a detailed description of the musical elements and influences. Some participant evaluation is also included.
Music Therapy with Persons who are Indigent and Terminally Ill
Authors: Mramor Karla M.
Published: August 2023

This paper addresses the music therapy process specific to one subgroup of the general population identified as having terminal illness. This subgroup includes individuals who are impoverished, homeless, and do not have someone to provide them with care at the end of life. Based upon her clinical work at Malachi House, the author identified three distinct phases of the music therapy process with these individuals: engagement, relationship building, and actively dying. The progress of 50 residents through the therapy process was documented over a three-year period, as was the musical and nonmusical content of music therapy sessions. This paper reviews the results of the documentation recorded and offers case examples to represent each phase.
Challenges in the Management of Children and Adolescents With Epilepsy in China During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Online Survey-Based Study
Authors: Lu Qian , Dun Shuo , Wang Qiu-Hong , Wang Yang-Yang , Chen Hui-Min , Zhang Qi , Zou Li-Ping
Published: August 2023

Introduction

To investigate the challenges in the management of children and adolescents with epilepsy in China during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 845 patients with epilepsy using an online-based questionnaire. The questionnaire focused on sociodemographic characteristics, epilepsy-related conditions, health care access, COVID-19 vaccination, and the mental health of caregivers. Depression was assessed using Patient Health Questionnaire-9.

Results

During the pandemic, 24.73% of the patients had increased seizures. The majority of patients (68.89%) experienced difficulty obtaining antiseizure medications. In addition, 94.79% of the patients had difficulty consulting a doctor. A total of 52.78% of the patients selected telemedicine services, and most found these services to be helpful. Moreover, 76.11% of the patients failed to complete the COVID-19 vaccination. More than half of the caregivers had anxiety and depressive symptoms. The risk factors for depression comprised irregularity in taking antiseizure medications, difficulty in obtaining antiseizure medications, and failure to consult a doctor on time.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a great challenge in the management of children and adolescents with epilepsy in China. The findings highlight the importance of improving health care systems and medication management and the mental health of their caregivers.
Perspectives From Public Health Practitioners and Advocates on Community Development for Active Living: What are the Lasting Impacts?
Authors: Serrano Natalicio , Schmidt Laurel , Eyler Amy A. , Brownson Ross C.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Evidence suggests differential impacts of community development, including gentrification and displacement. Public health practitioners and advocates are key stakeholders involved in the community development process related to active living, yet little is known about their perceptions of its impacts. We explored the perspectives of relevant leaders of public health departments and key community and advocacy organizations on community development, gentrification, and displacement.

Approach

Purposive key informant interviews.

Setting

CDC State Physical Activity and Nutrition (SPAN) funding recipients.

Participants

CDC SPAN recipient leadership (n = 10 of 16) and advocacy organizations they partnered with (n = 7 of 16).

Method

Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed with direct quotes representing key themes.

Results

Both groups felt community development held important benefits, specifically by creating healthy living opportunities, but also potentially leading to the displacement of long-time residents. Practitioners reported the benefits were for all community members, whereas advocates noted the benefits were seen in those with privilege, and the consequences were disproportionately seen in disadvantaged communities. Both mentioned the importance and difficulty of getting diverse representation for community engagement.

Conclusions

Learning how key stakeholders perceive and navigate the community development process can help inform recommendations for better equity in active living community improvements. More work is needed to further elucidate best practices for health and social equity in the community development process.
Corrado Gini's economic anthropology
Authors: Romani Roberto
Published: August 2023

Corrado Gini was a key intellectual in the Fascist establishment. His scientific programme included statistics, demography, eugenics, economics, and sociology, as well as occasional forays into political thought and anthropology. Historians have focused on his statistics and eugenics, in connection with his spell as head of the Italian bureau of statistics. This article, integrating economics with the other threads of Gini’s programme, takes economic anthropology as a standpoint to reassess the inspiration behind his whole oeuvre. That anthropology consisted of two parts: the criticism of economists’ ‘economic man’ and the attempt to replace it with an instinctual economic agent, inspired by the nationalist rhetoric of ‘young peoples’ bound to conquer the world. Once the perspective is enlarged, the usual definition of Gini as a technocrat proves insufficient, for his science incorporated essential pieces of Fascism’s political ideology and cultural legitimacy.