bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drawings as a tool to assess the effect of environmental education on children – the case of the Blonde Capuchin Project in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Santos André , Campelo Anielise , Medeiros Karolina , Castro Carla S.S. , Moraes Barbara , Bezerra Bruna
Published: August 2024

Environmental Education (EE) is key for biodiversity conservation. We aimed to evaluate the effect of an EE activity on students by evaluating their drawings. The EE activity was part of the Blonde Capuchin Project actions, which focuses on the research and conservation of the endangered blonde capuchin monkey, Sapajus flavius. The activity was comprised of four steps and lasted four hours in each school. We analysed 348 drawings made by children from eight schools in rural areas close to forest fragments inhabited by Blonde Capuchins in two municipalities in Northeast Brazil, Igarassu-PE and Mataraca-PB. The children made the drawings during the intervention in each school, specifically in steps 1 and 4 of the activity. We scored the drawings using a rubric to account for the presence of components (biotic and abiotic) and interactions (e.g., human-environment and non-human animal interactions). As an outcome of the EE activity, we found a possible increase in knowledge and awareness through the evaluation of the drawings. Thus, when resources are limited, we encourage the performance of short-term EE activities and the analysis of drawings as a tool to measure their immediate effect.
The Emergence of Anthroposophical Curative Education in Israel
Authors: Eilon Ron
Published: August 2024

This paper tracks anthroposophical social initiatives in Israel in the mid-20th century. It follows the migration of people involved in the anthroposophical movement, the transfer of anthroposophical ideas and the transnational translation of social work knowledge and practice from Europe to Mandatory Palestine and Israel. Archival material was collected from official, institutional, and private archives in Israel, Switzerland, Britain, and Germany and some data was obtained through oral history interviews. Transnational correspondence between anthroposophists in Palestine, later Israel, and those in Europe and Britain up to the late 1960s reveals efforts to tackle the newly founded state’s most burning struggles to adjust, realize, and embed an anthroposophical care practice. The paper suggests that the transnational translation of anthroposophical curative education played a significant role in the reception of anthroposophy in Israel through a process in which European cultural aspects of anthroposophy were adjusted, and its universal human aspects were prioritized.
Nesting and mating behaviours, and the development time of three solitary digger wasps of the genus Ammophila (Hymenoptera: Sphecidae)
Authors: Pham Phong Huy , Pham Mai Quynh , González Jorge M.
Published: August 2024

Nesting and mating behaviours and the development time of Ammophila clavus (Fabricius), Ammophila globifrontalis Q.Li & Ch.Yang, and Ammophila laevigata F.Smith from Vietnam are presented. All three dig their nests in the ground. The nest entrance is round. The nest burrow is nearly vertical and ends with an elliptical cell. The cell contains 1–2 caterpillars. The egg is usually glued on the third abdominal segment of prey. The three wasps temporarily close their nest burrows just below the entrance when provisioning, but permanently close them above or at the nest cells when full provision is complete. As the last stage of nest construction, the nest entrance is camouflaged with small sticks and several pebbles. Males of both Ammophila clavus and Ammophila laevigata patrol nesting areas, pursue females searching for their nest sites, pounce upon them, and mate with them on the ground. The development time from egg to the emergence of adult wasps is more than one month, males always emerging before females. The nesting behaviour of the three Ammophila species is compared and discussed.
Cortinarius (Basidiomycota, Cortinariaceae) section Crassispori revisited: resolving the C. chevassutii complex and demystifying C. variebulbus
Authors: FELLIN ALESSANDRO , CALLEDDA FEDERICO , FRØSLEV TOBIAS GULDBERG , ARMADA FRANÇOIS , STOHN GEERT SCHMIDT , BRANDRUD TOR ERIK , DIMA BÁLINT , VALDAGNI ALESSANDRO , BELLANGER JEAN-MICHEL
Published: August 2024

Numerous collections made in deciduous and evergreen oak woodlands of Europe allowed us to re-evaluate, both morphologically and molecularly, the systematic position and taxonomic boundaries of Cortinarius chevassutii f. personatus. This infraspecific taxon and Cortinarius chevassutii share the same ecological niche, an identical distribution pattern, and can even co-occur in the same spot, making their distinction quite challenging, morphologically. However, the phylogenetic analysis of our broad dataset supports two reproductively isolated taxa that both deserve the rank of species. According to recent findings, Cortinarius pseudobulliardioides is the name to apply to the former C. chevassutii f. personatus. Based on present knowledge, spore size and average length/width ratio represents the most reliable diagnostic criterion to separate the two species. Additionally, through next generation sequencing (Illumina) of its holotype, we here reveal the phylogenetic position of Cortinarius variebulbus within the same sect. Crassispori. Recent phylogenetically confirmed collections of this species allow us to document and illustrate this taxon for the first time.
Triebelina indopacifica and Triebelina porinetia sp. nov. (Ostracoda) from French Polynesia and first insight into their pore systems
Authors: FOREL MARIE-BÉATRICE
Published: August 2024

The present contribution documents the occurrence of Triebelina indopacifica van den Bold around Moorea and Tahiti, Windward Islands, French Polynesia and describes the new species Triebelina porinetia sp. nov.. The morphology of numerous specimens attributed to A-1 and A-2 juvenile stages of Triebelina indopacifica is thoroughly described, allowing the first insights into its ontogeny. With the aim to unravel the significance of poorly exploited characters in their taxonomy and systematics, the pore systems of Triebelina indopacifica and Triebelina porinetia sp. nov. are described. Patterns are recognized through the specimens and homologous pore systems characterizing the studied Triebelina species are proposed. The distribution of pore systems on the lateral surface of Triebelina therefore appears of generic significance, while indications at the species level may be sought in the morphology of rims of rimmed pores, as well as of marginal spines.
ACEF vs PARIS score in Predicting Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: Insights From the START ANTIPLATELET Registry
Authors: Cirillo Plinio , Di Serafino Luigi , Scalamogna Maria , De Rosa Gennaro , Calabrò Paolo , Antonucci Emilia , Gresele Paolo , Palareti Gualtiero , Patti Giuseppe , Pengo Vittorio , Pignatelli Pasquale , Marcucci Rossella
Published: August 2024

Several scores can predict clinical outcomes of patients with Acute Coronary Syndromes (ACS). The validated PARIS (Patterns of Non-Adherence to Anti-Platelet Regimen in Stented Patients) score is poorly used in clinical practice because it needs items that are not always easily available. The ACEF (Age, Creatinine, and Ejection Fraction) score is more attractive because it only includes three items. We compared these scores to risk-stratify ACS patients enrolled into the START (Survey on anticoagulated pAtients RegisTer)-ANTIPLATELET registry. ACS patients who completed 1-year follow-up ( n = 1171) were grouped in tertiles (low, medium, and high-risk) according to their ACEF/PARIS scores. Primary endpoints were: one-year MACCE (major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events: death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke or target vessel revascularization) and NACE (net adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events): MACCE plus major bleeding). MACCE incidence was higher in the high-risk tertile (15%) VS low/medium (3/7 %) risk tertiles ( P < .001). NACE incidence in the high-risk tertile was 24% VS low/medium (9/15 %) risk tertiles ( P < .001), independently of the risk score used. The ACEF score has similar accuracy as the validated PARIS score for the estimation of ischemic/bleeding risk. Thereby, we strongly suggest its use in clinical practice to risk-stratify ACS patients and select optimal therapeutic strategies.
Relational or Transactional? The Importance of Distinguishing Two Types of Community-Supported Business Models
Authors: Hausdorf Michaela , Timm Jana-Michaela
Published: August 2024

Scholars are increasingly exploring community-supported businesses (CSBs) as promising alternatives to conventional ones. However, researchers are so far overlooking that CSBs vary in their underlying business models, that is, how they propose, create, and capture value. We apply a multi-staged qualitative research process to carve out the differences between community-supported business models (CSBMs) that exist in practice. Our research shows that transactional and relational CSBMs differ in how they propose, create, and capture value which, in turn, has implications for the resources required to thrive.
Essential Occupational Therapy Competencies for Low Vision and Blindness
Authors: Foster Julia Elizabeth Grace , Borgal Michelle , Wise Sarah , McGrath Colleen Erin , Lysaght Rosemary
Published: August 2024

Background. The prevalence of low vision and blindness in persons across the lifespan means that occupational therapists will encounter these conditions across all areas of practice. Practitioners must be equipped with competencies necessary to recognize and respond to vision loss-related concerns. Purpose. This study sought to identify essential occupational therapy competencies when providing services to people with low vision and blindness. Method. The study employed a three-phase modified Delphi methodology administered through online surveys and focus group. Respondents included people with low vision or blindness, professionals with special expertise in low vision/blindness, and occupational therapists in other practice areas. Data were analyzed using an iterative, consensus-generating strategy involving quantitative analysis of competencies, qualitative input, and expert panel review. Findings. The process yielded a 51-item competency framework organized into six domains. Implications. The framework provides the foundation for a common curriculum for Canadian occupational therapy programs and for the creation of educational resources.
Securitization versus sovereignty? Multi-level governance, scientific objectivation, and the discourses of the Canadian and American heads of state during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lamontagne Marjolaine
Published: August 2024

The global health regime is caught in a paradox, whereby connecting “human” to “(inter)national” security to prevent the spread of infectious diseases unwittingly introduces into this complex and expertise-reliant domain of “low politics” the notion of “sovereign decisionism”—states’ prerogative to identify a threat and counter it with exceptional measures that may in turn constrain their ability to unilaterally securitize disease. This article introduces an analytical framework presenting three pathways through which state leaders with different conceptions of sovereignty and varying constraints on their legitimacy among their domestic audiences may nevertheless securitize policy domains traditionally considered as falling within the scope of sub-state “low politics.” Two of the pathways begin with scientific objectivation rather than politicization, and one trades power concentration for collaboration with sub-state and global authorities. I then compare the Canadian and American responses during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic to uncover how these contextual factors disposed Donald Trump to politicize COVID-19, while Justin Trudeau emulated the World Health Organization's securitization of the virus without centralizing state powers.
Rituals of Colonial Memory: Crafting Imperial Nostalgia in Republican Italy
Authors: Mancosu Gianmarco
Published: August 2024

The latest historiographical trends are revealing how the end of colonialism has influenced the political and social configuration of former metropolitan centres. In particular, the return of former colonial settlers has raised a series of issues that have resonated in European political debates and societies. In Italy, these processes were shaped by a peculiar decolonization process, coinciding with the equally tortuous transition from fascism to the Republic. Drawing on recent historiography on the return of colonial settlers, and expanding the chronological span and methodological scope of previous works through original archival sources, my intervention aims to reconstruct how imperial nostalgia became a political resource exploited by both repatriate associations and conservative political factions. Although similar to contemporaneous cases, in Italy colonial commemorative practices had peculiarities linked to the role of Catholicism and to the fact that far right and even neo-fascist movements exploited the demands of repatriates for their own political benefit. This article thus broadens the historiographical understanding concerning the decline of Italy's empire and deepens the analysis of its lasting impacts on the politics and society of Republican Italy.
Loneliness in the Context of Frieda Fromm-Reichmann’s Life
Authors: Muramoto Shoji
Published: August 2024

Frieda Fromm-Reichmann’s “On Loneliness” uniquely reflects her core values and experiences. Dr. Fried, an immigrant psychiatrist from Germany, is portrayed in Joanne Greenberg’s semiautobiographical novel not as a replica but as a fictional creation, necessitating complementary biographical accounts of Frieda. From childhood, she honed the skill of managing relationships with her deaf parents and others. Her commitment to the lonely and disabled was professionally inspired by her mentors, Kurt Goldstein and Georg Groddeck. Despite achieving international renown as an outstanding psychotherapist for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, her later years were marked by ongoing separations from significant others, the advent of the psychotropic treatment era, and worsening deafness. A key to understanding her work may be her Judaism, which she ceased practicing three decades prior.
Motivation and opportunity may drive Tunisian farmers to reduce chemical pesticides in horticulture
Authors: Raimondo Maria , Spina Daniela , Chinnici Gaetano , Di Vita Giuseppe , D’Amico Mario , Caracciolo Francesco
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the sociopsychological factors influencing Tunisian farmers’ adoption of sustainable pest management techniques by employing the motivation-opportunity-ability framework and using partial least squares structural equation modelling. It is the first empirical study to test this framework in predicting farmers’ readiness to reduce pesticide usage in agriculture, distinguishing between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. The findings reveal that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations significantly impact farmers’ readiness to reduce pesticide use. Particularly, extrinsic motivations, such as peer influence and prevailing practices within the community, play a crucial role, highlighting the importance of social dynamics in sustainable agricultural decisions. Additionally, opportunities to adopt non-chemical pest control methods, enhanced by access to information and technology, positively influence farmers’ intentions to minimize pesticide use. These results suggest that enhancing farmers’ motivation through targeted educational programs and fostering opportunities via supportive policy environments are key strategies to promoting sustainable pest management practices in the region.
The Relationship Between Public Debt and Economic Growth in Tanzania
Authors: Taylor Rosemary Stanley , Lokina Razack
Published: August 2024

This study examines the dynamic relationship between public debt and economic growth in Tanzania, focusing on causal links between the two variables and exploring potential debt thresholds. Using quarterly time series data from March 2005 to June 2022, we employ individual unit root and Johansen’s cointegration tests to establish long-term relationships. We estimate the Vector Error Correction Model and conduct the Granger causality test. The Threshold Model explores the debt threshold. Our findings reveal a significant positive long-term relationship between the two variables, with the direction of causality running from economic growth to domestic debt. Notably, the positive impact of domestic debt is pronounced when the domestic debt-to-GDP ratio falls between 31.3% and 35.2%. Beyond this threshold, the established relationship becomes statistically insignificant. The paper advocates leveraging debt financing to support productive investments for long-term economic growth. This recommendation holds significance for Tanzania and other countries across sub-Saharan Africa. However, it is crucial to undertake tailored country analyses that account for the distinct socioeconomic and political landscapes of the region's economies. These tailored analyses give valuable insights for domestic economies and global financing institutions, facilitating the formulation of context-specific debt management strategies that contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis in sphenoid sinus with vision impairment: Case report and literature review
Authors: Li Min-Shan , Wu Xing-Liang , Huang Ao , Wang Heng
Published: August 2024

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a neoplastic disease characterized by aberrant proliferation of the mononuclear phagocyte system, predominantly affecting children under the age of 3 years. Although LCH can affect almost all organs, sinus involvement is rare. This case report documents a 9-year-old boy presented with vision impairment and intermittent headache on the right side. The CT scan and MRI examination revealed the presence of a soft mass in the right atrium of sphenoid sinus, which impacted the right optic canal. Biopsy results confirmed the presence of LCH. Considering the involvement of optic canal and vision impairment, meticulous debridement was performed followed by a 12-month standard chemotherapy. After 2 years of follow-up, the patient showed significant improvement, despite the presence of an encapsulated cyst in the right sphenoid sinus. This case highlights the importance of considering LCH when encountering an isolated soft mass accompanied by decreased vision in the sphenoid sinus. A thorough physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging methods should be performed, with a biopsy being necessary to confirm the type of lesion and guide the appropriate treatment.
Clinical course and vascular endothelial growth factor signaling system expression in maxillary angiosarcoma: A case report
Authors: Arai Shiho , Igarashi Takeshi , Goto Hiroki , Kashima Kazutaka , Sasaki Toru , Sakaguchi Mio , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Fujii Hiroyuki , Nishino Hiroshi , Ito Makoto , Kanazawa Takeharu
Published: August 2024

Maxillary angiosarcoma, an aggressive tumor derived from vascular endothelial cells, is very rare. Recently, antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies have attracted considerable attention. We describe the clinical course of a patient with maxillary angiosarcoma and discuss the expression of VEGF signaling molecules assessed via immunohistological analysis. An 81-year-old man presented with an aggressive tumor in the left maxillary sinus. Biopsy revealed atypical nuclear cell proliferation, and the tumor was suspected to be a sarcoma. The maxillary malignancy was treated using a multidisciplinary approach with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and regional chemotherapy. Examination of the specimen obtained in the first surgery revealed maxillary angiosarcoma, found to be positive for CD31, while negative for CD34, D2-40, and factor Ⅷ. Although no pathological residual tumor was observed after the planned wide surgery, cervical lymph node and distant metastases occurred. The patient died 24 months after the first surgery. Staining revealed VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 1, VEGFR2, phosphorylated Ak strain transforming, mitogen-activated protein kinase, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 positivity. Although our findings do not indicate that anti-VEGF therapy is beneficial for treating maxillary angiosarcomas, we found that VEGFR signaling pathways were activated in maxillary angiosarcomas similar to angiosarcomas originating at other sites. Herein, we report a case of maxillary angiosarcoma, focused on VEGFR and signaling pathway activation. To our knowledge, this is the first report to describe VEGFR system immunostaining findings in maxillary angiosarcoma.
The role of serum albumin in critical illness, predicting poor outcomes, and exploring the therapeutic potential of albumin supplementation
Authors: Rabi Razan , Alsaid Reem M , Matar Abdelrahman N , Dawabsheh Yusuf , Abu Gaber Dina
Published: August 2024

Objective:

Serum albumin (ALB) plays a vital role in maintaining oncotic pressure and contributing to hemodynamic stability, with low levels associated with adverse outcomes in critically ill patients. This study aimed to assess the association between serum ALB concentrations and poor outcomes and the possible benefits of ALB supplementation.

Methods:

A retrospective study involving 300 intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Albumin levels were recorded upon admission and throughout the stay, and patients were categorized based on a cutoff of 2.49 g/dl. The associations between low ALB levels and mortality were assessed using regression analysis. Additionally, it investigated the association of albumin supplementation with patient outcomes and mortality in specific patient populations.

Results:

The mean age was 54.9 years, with 68% having sepsis. Patients with low baseline ALB concentrations exhibited higher overall mortality (71% vs. 52%) and 28-day mortality (50% vs. 39%). Adjusted analyses confirmed associations with mortality. Albumin supplementation was administered to 53% of the patients. Its use demonstrated potential benefits, particularly in reducing mortality, when given to specific groups, such as sepsis and hypoalbuminemia patients.

Discussion:

The study confirms that low serum albumin levels are strongly associated with higher mortality rates in ICU patients. Albumin supplementation showed potential benefits, particularly in patients with sepsis and low albumin levels. Further analyses explored the dosage–response relationship and identified potential groups that would benefit from albumin supplementation.

Conclusion:

Albumin can play a major role in predicting mortality in critically ill patients. Moreover, ALB supplementation may improve survival, especially in resource-limited settings. Future research should refine protocols through clinical trials for optimal survival in critically ill patients.
The Politics of the Excluded: The Political Thought of Wong Chin Foo
Authors: Liu Glory M.
Published: August 2024

This article examines the concepts of citizenship and exclusion in the writings of the nineteenth-century Chinese American figure Wong Chin Foo (1847–1898) and situates his works within the context of Chinese Exclusion in the United States. Against a backdrop of intensifying racial violence and legal and social exclusion, Wong repudiated racial stereotypes that were used to justify Chinese exclusion. He argued that the Chinese were culturally and morally distinctive but assimilable to American society. Central to his argumentative strategy was his critical reappropriation of the idea of the Chinese as unassimilable “heathens.” However, his conception of citizenship as conditional on “character and fitness” exposed the exclusionary nature of American citizenship and reinscribed its boundaries along racial and class lines. In treating Wong as a political thinker in his own right, this essay makes three contributions. First, it offers a historical elucidation of what Gordon Chang has called “the politics of the excluded.” Wong’s works show how central categories of politics and political thinking—like citizenship—are reconfigured by the very people those categories were designed to exclude. Second, this essay offers an alternative interpretive framework for reading texts within Asian American political thought and intellectual history. Finally, this essay forms a theoretical intervention by showing how Wong discloses the peculiarities of Asian American positionality in debates about racial citizenship in America.
Optimal operation strategy predictive control for an integrated radiant cooling with fresh air system based on machine learning
Authors: Liu Yuhan , Xia Xueying , Hu Yushuo , Li Zhen , Gu Hailong
Published: August 2024

Radiant cooling systems are widely valued for their great comfort and energy-saving potential. However, they still face the risk of condensation in the early stages of operation, especially in case of random occupancy and intermittent operation. This study aims to avoid unacceptable discomfort durations in randomly occupied rooms that installed integrated radiant cooling and fresh air system while consuming as little energy as possible. This paper firstly compares the effects of adopting only the setback or standby cooling strategy in a randomly occupied conference room by simulation. The simulation results demonstrate the necessity for predicting optimal operation strategy. Subsequently, optimal operation strategy predictive models were built using three machine learning algorithms on three datasets. The evaluation results of the models indicate the feasibility of using data from neighbouring cities to improve the generalisation ability of the target city model. Finally, the best one of models was used to predict optimal operation strategy and achieved good results: discomfort durations of 97.56% of the conferences were within the acceptable range. Additionally, compared to only adopting the standby cooling strategy, the radiant cooling system operating time was reduced by 8.88%, and the total energy consumption was reduced by 28.85 kWh.

In this study, a model to predict optimal operation strategy is proposed. By simulating and analysing from both comfort and energy perspectives, the optimal operation strategy predictive control method effectively limits the discomfort duration and reduces energy consumption and radiant system runtime. This study provides an example of practical engineering and machine learning applications for radiant cooling systems.
An advanced hybrid deep learning model for accurate energy load prediction in smart building
Authors: Sunder R , R Sreeraj , Paul Vince , Punia Sanjeev Kumar , Konduri Bhagavan , Nabilal Khan Vajid , Lilhore Umesh Kumar , Lohani Tarun Kumar , Ghith Ehab , Tlija Mehdi
Published: August 2024

In smart cities, sustainable development depends on energy load prediction since it directs utilities in effectively planning, distributing and generating energy. This work presents a novel hybrid deep learning model including components of the Improved-convolutional neural network (CNN), bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM), Graph neural network (GNN), Transformer and Fusion Layer architectures for precise energy load forecasting. Better feature extraction results from the Improved-CNN's dilated convolution and residual block accommodation of wide receptive fields reduced the vanishing gradient problem. By capturing temporal links in both directions, Bi-LSTM networks help to better grasp complicated energy use patterns. Graph neural networks improve predictive capacities across linked systems by characterizing the spatial relationships between energy-consuming units in smart cities. Emphasizing critical trends to guarantee reliable forecasts, transformer models use attention methods to manage long-term dependencies in energy consumption data. Combining CNN, Bi-LSTM, Transformer and GNN component predictions in a Fusion Layer synthesizes numerous data representations to increase accuracy. With Root Mean Square Error of 5.7532 Wh, Mean Absolute Percentage Error of 3.5001%, Mean Absolute Error of 6.7532 Wh and R2 of 0.9701, the hybrid model fared better than other models on the ‘Electric Power Consumption’ Kaggle dataset. This work develops a realistic model that helps informed decision-making and enhances energy efficiency techniques, promoting energy load forecasting in smart cities.
Analyzing the Prevalence of Depression and Its Influencing Factors in Elderly Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Qin Shuhong , Zheng Zhanhang , Li Ruilin , Wu Chenxingzi , Wang Wenjuan
Published: August 2024

Objective: Depressive symptoms are prevalent and detrimental in elderly patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Understanding the factors influencing these symptoms is crucial. This study aims to use machine learning algorithms to identify the contributing factors in this population. Method: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database provided the data for this study. The study includes elderly patients who are eligible for diagnostic evaluation for OSA. Logistic regression was used to screen their influencing factors, and random forest (RF), extreme gradient boosting (XGB), artificial neural network (ANN), and support vector machine (SVM) were utilized to 4 algorithms were used to construct depressive symptoms classification models, and the best model performance was selected for feature importance ranking. Influential factors included demographics (age, gender, education, etc.), chronic disease status (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), and laboratory findings (white blood cells, C-reactive protein, cholesterol, etc.). Result: Ultimately, we chose 1538 elderly OSA patients for the study, out of which 528 (34.4%) suffered from depressive symptoms. Logistic regression initially identified 17 influencing factors and then constructed classification models based on those 17 using RF, XGB, ANN, and SVM. We selected the best-performing SVM model [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.746] based on the AUC values of 0.73, 0.735, 0.742, and 0.746 for the 4 models. We ranked the variables in order of importance: General health status, sleep disorders, gender, frequency of urinary incontinence, liver disease, physical activity limitations, education, moisture, eosinophils, erythrocyte distribution width, and hearing loss. Conclusion: Elderly OSA patients experience a high incidence of depressive symptoms, influenced by various objective and subjective factors. The situation is troubling, and healthcare institutions and policymakers must prioritize their mental health. We should implement targeted initiatives to improve the mental health of high-risk groups in multiple dimensions.
Stensen’s Duct Dynamic Anatomy Assessed with Sialography
Authors: Wenzel Piper A. , Thorpe Ryan K. , Maley Joan E. , Policeni Bruno A. , Beichel Reinhard R. , Henkle Kailey D. , Hoffman Henry T.
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The presence of a catheter required for contrast infusion during sialography obscures imaging of the distal duct. Static imaging via cone beam computed tomography and magnetic resonance sialography fails to address changes that occur dynamically to the anatomy of the flexible salivary ductal system. We aim to identify dynamic changes to the parotid gland by introducing a novel approach to analyze the full extent of Stensen’s duct based on dynamic infusion digital sialography. Methods: Retrospective chart review of a single-center consecutive series of 409 parotid sialograms performed between April 2008 and June 2023 permitted selection of a contemporary series including seven normal sialograms and seven sialograms with stricture(s). Dynamic (fluoroscopic) infusion (iopamidol/gadolinium) sialograms were assessed through blinded review by two radiologists employing the institution’s picture archiving and communication (PACS) system (©2023 Koninklijke Philips N.V., Amsterdam, Netherlands). Measurements determined changes, in two dimensions, to the angle of the masseteric bend and duct length while the catheter was in place (repose), during catheter withdrawal (stretch), and during recoil after withdrawal. Differences in median lengths and angles of Stensen’s duct between the three time points were compared using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank and Mann–Whitney tests. Results: Fourteen patients [median age (IQR), 55 years (24.7); 10 women] were evaluated. The median angle of the masseteric bend was 117.7° in repose versus 155.4° during catheter withdrawal ( P < .001, n = 14). The median distance measured from the Stensen’s duct orifice to the first major ductal bifurcation was 81.5 mm (IQR = 12.3) in repose. The median percent increase in length from repose to stretch was 6.3% ( P < .001, n = 14). Conclusions: Dynamic infusion digital sialography with fluoroscopic recording during catheter removal permits assessment of the distal duct unobstructed by the presence of a catheter. The technique also identifies the dynamic nature and varying length and angulation of Stensen’s duct.
Conducting Research on Psychosocial Skills Associated with Academic Talent Development
Authors: Rinn Anne N.
Published: August 2024

The study of psychosocial skills is conceptualized in the field of gifted education as part of the talent development paradigm, and most terminology associated with the study of psychosocial skills is done within the framework of the talent development megamodel. Although critically important in the development of talent, empirical research on psychosocial skills as framed within the talent development paradigm is limited in the field of gifted education and more research is needed. In this paper, I present six points to consider in conducting research on psychosocial skills associated with talent development, and in particular, academic talent development. The six points are presented with an emphasis on examining ideas behind the questions of under what conditions, when, and for whom.
Enhancing Independence: Non-Immersive Virtual Reality for Teaching Cooking Skills to High School Students With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Jakubow Larissa , Bouck Emily C. , Norwine Laura , Long Holly M. , Nuse James , Kitsios Anna Maria
Published: August 2024

Virtual reality (VR) is a promising avenue to enhance the independence and daily living skills of high school students with intellectual disability. This study investigated the efficacy of a non-immersive VR focused on teaching food preparation skills to secondary students with intellectual disability. Three high school students with intellectual disability participated in a multiple probe across participants single case design study, in which they engaged with non-immersive VR to learn to cook a grilled cheese sandwich on a stove. Researchers found students improved their accuracy with cooking a grilled cheese sandwich on a stove following intervention as measured by task analysis steps on a delayed probe. Students also maintained high levels of accuracy after the intervention ended. Researchers determined non-immersive VR an effective and efficient intervention for secondary students with intellectual disability learning daily living skills.
Biocompatible Solutions: Evaluating the Safety of Repeated Intra-Articular Injections of pMPCylated Liposomes for Knee Osteoarthritis Therapy in Rat Models
Authors: Ramot Yuval , Kronfeld Noam , Steiner Michal , Lee Eric D. , Goldberg Ronit , Jahn Sabrina , Nyska Abraham
Published: August 2024

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) poses a significant health care burden globally, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. CCoat, a novel poly(2-[methacryloyloxy]ethyl phosphorylcholine) (pMPC)ylated liposome device, protects the cartilage surface of the joint from mechanical wear through an entropy-favored process. Two preclinical studies were performed to explore the safety of CCoat following repeated intra-articular (IA) injections into the knee joint (i.e., femorotibial joint) in Sprague-Dawley rats. The studies involved 2 or 3 IA injections, at an interval of 2 or 3 weeks, and an observation period of 1 or 13 weeks after the last injection. Assessments included clinical, histopathological, and immunofluorescent evaluations. In study 1, no mortality or abnormal clinical signs occurred. At 1 week post last injection, histopathology revealed minimal vacuolated macrophages beneath the synovial membrane, predominantly M2-like, indicating a nonadverse response. Immunofluorescent staining supported M2-like macrophage predominance. Study 2 confirmed these findings with no systemic effects over 13 weeks. Statistical analyses indicated no significant differences in body weight, clinical pathology, or organ weights compared with controls. Results affirming the safety of pMPCylated liposomes following repeated IA injections in rat. This novel lubricant coating approach shows promise in OA therapy, with this safety assessment supporting its potential clinical application.
The Toll of Exclusion on Immigrants’ Health across the Life Course: Research Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Dondero Molly , Altman Claire E.
Published: August 2024

Health is an integral feature of immigration, providing not only insight into population health but also a critical lens into immigrant integration and the power structure in receiving countries. The goal of this article is to chart the trajectory of scholarship on immigrants’ health, focusing on the formative shift away from dominant individualistic perspectives focused on cultural and behavioral explanations toward a profoundly structural understanding of immigrants’ health. Focusing primarily on the US context, we synthesize theoretical and empirical advances in structural perspectives of immigrants’ health. We anchor these advances in the concept of exclusion, detailing how it undergirds structuralist perspectives of immigrants’ health. We review common ways in which exclusion has been measured in the empirical literature on immigrants’ health and highlight recent evidence linking exposure to exclusion to immigrants’ health outcomes across the life course. We conclude by discussing key directions and challenges for future research.
Design and characterization of novel Ti-8Mo-xFe-yCu alloys as implant materials: Evaluation of biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and antibacterial potential
Authors: Senopati Galih , Rashid Rizwan Abdul Rahman , Juliadmi Dian , Prastya Muhammad Eka , Mori Manami , Yamanaka Kenta , Kartika Ika , Palanisamy Suresh
Published: August 2024

Titanium and its alloys are highly desirable materials for biomedical metallic implants due to their superior specific strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and exceptional biocompatibility. Among these alloys, Ti6Al4V is widely used in practical biomedical applications because it offers an excellent combination of strength, fracture toughness, and corrosion resistance. However, recent research has revealed limitations in its biocompatibility attributed to the presence of toxic elements such as Al and V. In addition, it has been reported that Ti6Al4V is costly due to the addition of Vanadium and has the potential for post-implant inflammation. As a result, researchers have been investigating new biomedical beta-Ti alloys using biocompatible, affordable, and easily accessible beta-stabilizers like Mo, Fe, and Cu, to achieve similar performance as Ti6Al4V alloys. The present study aims to develop a novel biomedical alloy through the arc melting method, to obtain an implant material possessing low elastic moduli, biocompatibility, and antibacterial properties to mitigate the risk of post-implant inflammation. Microstructural analysis was conducted using microscopy and x-ray diffraction, while the mechanical properties were evaluated through micro vickers hardness testing machine and elastic moduli measurement utilizing the impulse excitation technique. Cytotoxicity assessment was performed using the (Cell Counting Kit-8) CCK-8 method, followed by an examination of the alloy's antibacterial properties using the point counting method. β-Ti single phase was obtained in this study with the addition of ≥1% Fe and ≥1% Cu. The Ti-8Mo-2Fe-2Cu alloy was found to have the lowest elastic moduli of 95 GPa. Electrochemical measurements show that the Ti-8Mo- xFe- yCu alloys have a lower corrosion current density of around 0.319–2.317 µA/cm2 compared to Ti6Al4V of 16.543 µA/cm2. The Ti-8Mo-1Fe-3Cu, Ti-8Mo-3Fe-1Cu, and Ti-8Mo-3Fe-3Cu alloys have comparable biocompatibility with Ti6Al4V with the viability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) above 75% and have a positive antibacterial response. Ti-8Mo-3Fe-3Cu alloy demonstrates the most favorable blend of microstructure, mechanical attributes, corrosion resistance, cell viability, and antibacterial properties as an alternate biomaterial for implant applications.
Comparison of microbial growth on primed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits in varying environments using different priming solutions
Authors: Godinez Berenice , Weinberg Allison , Azmat Ramsha , Balic Nerina , Parker Anita , Kaur Ramandeep , Lerret Nadine , Collins Julie A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a life support device for patients with severe heart and/or lung failure. Emergency situations require immediate ECMO response. Primed circuits have become a routine practice, as it may take 30-60 min to assemble and prime. There remains a lack of data to support the sterility of primed and stored ECMO circuits. This bench study assessed the impact of storage environment and priming solution on specific microbial growth of primed ECMO circuits.

Methods

Twelve adult ECMO circuits were tested for sterility for 56 days between September-December 2020. Circuits were assembled and primed in a perfusion lab in Chicago, IL. Six were stored in a sterile environment and six in a non-sterile environment, with three circuits primed using normal saline (NaCl) and three with Plasmalyte-A for each environment. Samples were collected on days 0, 3, 7, 14, 28, 42, and 56 in anaerobic bottle cultures testing for potential pathogen growth, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.

Results

Samples obtained from the 12 primed ECMO circuits demonstrated no microbial growth of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and E. coli in the bottle cultures. Similarly, there was no difference in the circuit sterility based on the storage environment (sterile vs nonsterile) or priming solution (NaCl vs Plasmalyte-A).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that ECMO circuits can be primed for 56 days without evidence of the specified bacterial growth. Furthermore, the storage conditions and the prime utilized did not affect the sterility of the primed ECMO circuits.
Recurrent myocardial infarction in a patient with median arcuate ligament syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Gao Zhen , Vithran Djandan Tadum Arthur , Hu Xiaoyong
Published: August 2024

Median arcuate ligament (MAL) syndrome, otherwise known as celiac artery compression syndrome, is rare and is characterized by celiac artery compression by the median arcuate ligament. We report a unique case of MAL syndrome with recurrent myocardial infarction as the primary manifestation, and offer new pathophysiological insights. A man in his early 50s experienced recurrent upper abdominal pain, electrocardiographic changes, and elevated troponin concentrations, which suggested myocardial infarction. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed considerable celiac artery stenosis due to MAL syndrome. The patient was diagnosed with MAL syndrome and acute myocardial infarction. He declined revascularization owing to economic constraints, and opted to have conservative treatment with Chinese herbal extracts and medications. He succumbed to sudden cardiac death during a subsequent abdominal pain episode. The findings from this case show that MAL syndrome can present with recurrent myocardial infarction rather than typical intestinal angina symptoms. The pathophysiological link may involve intestinal and cardiac ischemia. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of MAL syndrome require careful evaluation and investigation.
A Field Experiment on Pro-Social Nudges: The Snowballing Problem
Authors: Hunt Charles
Published: August 2024

In contrast to traditional economic methods to address negative externalities, the study of pro-social nudges within the field of behavioral economics is quickly developing (Carlsson et al., 2019, 2021; Schubert, 2017). The aim of pro-social nudges is to reduce a negative externality to a defined group or community. This study uses a natural field experiment to examine the impact of a pro-social nudge on a local negative externality of hot rooms in college residence buildings and the resulting more global externality of excess greenhouse gas emissions. These externalities are the result of the interplay between the heating system and the propensity of students to open their windows causing the system to produce more heat to everyone––labeled the snowballing problem. This study suggests the nudge did not reduce the negative externalities, rather it may have backfired and exacerbated the existing problem (room temperatures increased 0.5–1.6 F° after the intervention). As the results illustrate, addressing negative externalities with pro-social nudges may be particularly challenging because they often target behavior that benefits a larger society and requires the individual to experience some short-term disutility.
Tension relaxation during the NOL ring winding process based on a novel tracking element method
Authors: Xie Xin , Xie Ximing , Li Hongyin , Shen Liangliang , Zhu Jun , Yu Haitao , Tang Jianbo , Xu Jian
Published: August 2024

The NOL ring is employed as a specimen to examine the properties of filament-wound composites, with its winding tension playing a pivotal role in determining the performance of the resultant wound products. Traditional methods used for modeling the winding process have several disadvantages, including inaccuracies in setting the tension and difficulties in controlling the thickness of the wound layers. To address these limitations, utilizing the response mechanism of the tracking element method, a precise three-dimensional (3D) winding finite element model of the NOL ring is constructed. Adopting a wireless film pressure testing system to dynamically measure interlayer pressures, improved the precision of our experimental results by decoupling factors affecting tension relaxation and focusing on the structural relaxation characteristics of winding tension in composite materials. Experimental results demonstrate that, using this model, the prediction error for the radial stress on the mandrel surface is only 6.03%, which is substantially lower than that of the conventional models (16.72%). In addition, the model is used to investigate the stress transfer mechanisms in the radial/circumferential directions of the winding layers on a macroscopic scale. Finally, it is demonstrated through examples that this model can also achieve equal residual tension through optimization, which is expected to improve the structural efficiency of wound products.
Developing a comprehensive curriculum program for nurse practitioners delivering primary care in the long-term care setting
Authors: Nilormi Adhiba , Heer Carrie , Ziegler Erin
Published: August 2024

In the Long-Term Care (LTC) setting, comprehensive primary care is often provided by Nurse Practitioners (NPs). NPs are uniquely positioned to meet the evolving primary care needs of LTC residents. However, caring for this population requires additional education and training due to its special considerations. To meet the learning needs of NPs entering the LTC workplace, a Certificate Program was designed to enhance primary care competencies within the LTC setting. The aim of the program is to increase knowledge, capacity, and confidence of NPs to deliver quality, evidence-based, integrated, and interprofessional primary care to LTC residents. This curriculum is anticipated to address the growing need for LTC services and improve the delivery of high-quality primary care.