bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Making the world open again. The US State Department's thwarted first steps towards global neoliberalization during the Great Depression and World War II
Authors: Brennetot Arnaud
Published: June 2023

Given that neoliberal rationality implies the economic opening of state spaces in a borderless global market, this article proposes a critical reassessment of the origins of actually existing neoliberalism, with the twofold aim of addressing the empirical shortcomings of the conventional narrative and specifying the conditions of the emergence of neoliberalization. The present authors demonstrate how the US Department of State implemented a foreign economic policy between 1933 and 1947 which constituted one of the first neoliberal experiments of the twentieth century, engendering the hotbed of transatlantic neoliberalization which unfolded, albeit incompletely, in the following decades. This revisitation of the origins of neoliberalization has, in turn, enabled a theoretical reframing of the neoliberal spatiality, intersecting multiple stream framework analysis and the neo-institutionalist approach, in order to highlight the complexity of the factors responsible for the emergence of political neoliberalism in the context of the global crisis of the 1930s and 1940s.
Pass rates of four P2/N95 respirators or filtering facepiece respirators in Australian healthcare providers: A prospective observational study
Authors: Low Caitlin SR , Ngui Sean Z , Casey Matthew J , Vuong Chloe , Afroz Afsana , Sengupta Shomik , Weinberg Laurence
Published: June 2023

P2/N95 respirators or filtering facepiece respirators may not have the same pass rate on quantitative fit testing. The aim of this study was to investigate the pass rate of four commonly used filtering facepiece respirators in Australian healthcare providers. The secondary objectives included assessing the ease of donning, doffing and comfort of wearing these four filtering facepiece respirators for more than 30 minutes. A multivariable analysis was also conducted to assess if certain variables (e.g. age, sex, body mass index, ethnicity, facial width and length) were associated with passing or failing fit testing. We conducted a prospective observational study of 150 hospital staff who presented for fit testing in a metropolitan hospital in Victoria, Australia. The order of the four filtering facepiece respirators being tested was randomised. A Cochran’s Q test was used to test the global null hypothesis that all four filtering facepiece respirators being tested have the same pass rate. A difference in pass rate was found between the four filtering facepiece respirators that were tested ( P < 0.001). The 3M™ Aura 1870+ (3M Australia Pty Ltd, North Ryde, NSW) had the highest pass rate (83%) followed by the 3M™ 1860 (3M Australia Pty Ltd, North Ryde, NSW) (61%), BSN ProShield™ N95 (BSN Medical, Mulgrave, Victoria) (55%) and the BYD DE2322 N95 (BYD Care, Los Angeles, CA, USA) (44%). There was also a difference in the ease of donning, doffing and comfort. Therefore, healthcare facilities that perform fit testing should take these factors into consideration when designing an effective respiratory protection programme.
Lessons from Reality on Automated Container Terminals: What Can Be Expected from Future Technological Developments?
Authors: Majoral Genís , Reyes Andrés , Saurí Sergi
Published: June 2023

Automating container terminals is a consolidated trend in the port sector that is expected to grow. The main drivers for this growth are improving efficiency, reducing operating costs, remedying labor shortages, and increasing productivity. However, in practice there is no clear evidence confirming that automated terminals outperform conventional ones in handling productivity rates, cycle times, or vessel berthing times. Both the academic corpus and industry data show mixed results. Based on that, the goal of this article is to research productivity rates and factors affecting productivity, and understand to what extent future technological developments can enhance automated terminals. To do so, several sources of information are used and analyzed to shed light on the real productivity performance. The main conclusion gives no strong evidence linking automation with greater productivity, even though it might reduce terminal operators’ costs. In fact, in many instances, productivity is worse. Moreover, currently, semi-automated terminals are still preferred to fully automated terminals because of better handling times. However, it is expected that future technological developments will likely overcome the current issues faced by automated terminals, when a technological paradigm shift takes places.
Investigation of Railway Ballast Breakage Through Large-Scale Triaxial Tests and a New Particle Breakage Approach in Discrete Element Modeling
Authors: Huang Shihao , Qian Yu
Published: June 2023

Crushed aggregates with irregular shapes and sharp corners are preferred ballast materials to ensure proper track bearing capacity because of good contact between the particles. Meanwhile, crushed aggregates are prone to deterioration and breakage under repeated train loads. The effect of particle degradation on the mechanical behavior of ballast has been investigated before, but previous research rarely separates ballast breakage during sample compaction from breakage during shearing. This study investigates ballast particle breakage at different stages through large-scale triaxial tests and discrete element modeling. The results show that corner breakage is the primary particle breakage mode and mostly happens during compaction instead of during the shearing process. The results also indicate ballast corner breakage during sample compaction would increase the peak strength of the ballast but would not change Young’s modulus. A rubber pad is strongly recommended to reduce ballast breakage during the triaxial test sample compaction.
Disparities in access to primary care are growing wider in Canada
Authors: Lavergne M. Ruth , Bodner Aidan , Allin Sara , Christian Erin , Hajizadeh Mohammad , Hedden Lindsay , Katz Alan , Kephart George , Leslie Myles , Rudoler David , Spencer Sarah
Published: June 2023

Canadian provinces and territories have undertaken varied reforms to how primary care is funded, organized, and delivered, but equity impacts of reforms are unclear. We explore disparities in access to primary care by income, educational attainment, dwelling ownership, immigration, racialization, place of residence (metropolitan/non-metropolitan), and sex/gender, and how these have changed over time, using data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (2007/08 and 2015/16 or 2017/18). We observe disparities by income, educational attainment, dwelling ownership, recent immigration, immigration (regular place of care), racialization (regular place of care), and sex/gender. Disparities are persistent over time or increasing in the case of income and racialization (regular medical provider and consulted with a medical professional). Primary care policy decisions that do not explicitly consider existing inequities may continue to entrench them. Careful study of equity impacts of ongoing policy reforms is needed.
Multi-link mechanism-inspired palletizing manipulator: Design, optimization and experimental results
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Zhou Linqi , Huang Jiale , Tu Zhiyi , Liu Quan , Li Jiehao
Published: June 2023

The precision of trajectory tracking and stable operation with sorting merchandise are the main challenges for palletizing manipulators in different working conditions, especially in sorting glass-substrate. To ensure the adaptability of the manipulator under different working conditions, including operational efficiency, motion space, and control accuracy, the structural optimization and the motion control methods of the manipulator should be considered. In this paper, the structure optimization and tracking control of the manipulator for sorting glass substrates are studied. Firstly, considering the optimization factors including stroke speed ratio k, transmission angle [Formula: see text] and the sum of link-rod lengths l of the crank rocker mechanism, a structural optimization method based on genetic algorithm is applied to enhance the flexible maneuverability. Furthermore, a feedforward-feedback iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm is adopted to the high accuracy of position tracking. Finally, experimental results verify the feasibility of structural optimization and tracking control, which can be effective applied in practical engineering.
Exploring the Role of ChatGPT as a Facilitator for Motivating Self-Directed Learning Among Adult Learners
Authors: Lin Xi
Published: June 2023

This study explores the potential of ChatGPT as a virtual tutor to facilitate self-directed learning (SDL) among adult learners in asynchronous online contexts. Although SDL has been identified as a critical skill, factors such as the lack of skills to find resources and the absence of a supportive learning environment could impede adult learners’ ability to engage in SDL. By harnessing the power of AI, ChatGPT can assist adult learners in setting learning goals, locating available resources, designing personalized learning plans, monitoring their performance, and reflecting on their learning experiences, ultimately leading to the effective completion of SDL. This study also discusses several existing limitations and challenges, including the need for instructors to provide guidance on creating prompts to use ChatGPT effectively, the possibility of learners becoming reliant on ChatGPT, the significance of institutions to provide policies of proper use of ChatGPT, and the necessary for AI developers to continuously improve the algorithms and data used by the system to minimize the likelihood of providing incorrect and irrelevant information. Additionally, some questions are raised regarding the balance between the use of ChatGPT and engagement with human instructors to ensure optimal learning outcomes. This study aims to enlighten adult educators and practitioners towards the integration of ChatGPT in asynchronous online learning to facilitate adult learning.
Deucravacitinib: The First FDA-Approved Oral TYK2 Inhibitor for Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Truong Thu Minh , Pathak Gaurav N. , Singal Amit , Taranto Viktoriia , Rao Babar K.
Published: June 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to review the safety and efficacy of deucravacitinib, a tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

Data Sources

Literature was reviewed from MEDLINE and Clinicaltrials.gov up to December 2022 using the terms “deucravacitinib” and “BMS-986165.”

Study Selection

Relevant articles in English relating to the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of deucravacitinib were included. A total of 6 trial results were included.

Study Selection and Data Extraction

Deucravacitinib showed clinical efficacy across all the phase II and III clinical trials. Excluding the long-term extension study, there were 2248 subjects across all studies, with 63.2% of patients receiving deucravacitinib 6 mg daily. Of these subjects, the average proportion achieving a PASI 75 (a reduction of greater than 75% in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) at week 16 was 65.1%. Patients receiving deucravacitinib 6 mg once daily had a higher rate of achieving both PASI 75 response and a Static Physician’s Global Assessment (sPGA) score of 0 or 1, compared with oral apremilast 30 mg twice daily. The safety profile of deucravacitinib includes mild adverse events (AEs), most commonly nasopharyngitis, with serious AEs reported ranging from 1.35% to 9.5%.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice in Comparison With Existing Medications

While many available therapies for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis rely on an injectable dosage form or extensive monitoring, deucravacitinib can potentially reduce patient medication-related burden. This review summarizes the efficacy and safety of oral deucravacitinib for the treatment of severe plaque psoriasis.

Conclusion

Deucravacitinib shows a consistent efficacy and safety profile as the first oral TYK2 inhibitor approved for adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are eligible for systemic therapy or phototherapy treatment.
Spinal Counts, Impact, and Partnering Movements in Ballet, Modern, and Hip Hop dance: A YouTube Video Analysis Study
Authors: Henn Erica D. , Lanza Samantha , Ambegaonkar Jatin P. , Smith Tina , Wyon Matthew
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Dancers have self-reported a link between spinal extension movements and low back pain (LBP). Researchers have not reported the total number or frequency that spinal movements occur in ballet, modern, or hip-hop dance classes or performances. The purpose of this study was to report the number of spinal movements dancers are exposed to in different dance environments.

Materials and Methods:

We analyzed 65 dance videos on YouTube.com for dance movements within 7 dance environments: ballet class and performance, modern class and performance, and hip-hop breaking, ciphers (large groups), and battles (“1v1s”). Two reviewers recorded counts of spinal (spinal flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation), impact (jumps, leaps, and falls), and partnering movements (lifts, catches, and leans). Data analyses were processed in Jamovi (the jamovi project, Sydney, Australia). We reported movement totals, percentages, frequency, ranges, means with standard deviations (SD), and medians with interquartile range (IQR). We calculated significant differences using Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results:

Video length ranged from 3 to 141 minutes (mean ± SD: 38.4 ± 38.3, range: 138). the average spinal extension movements ranged from 2 ± 0.8 to 7 ± 9.6 movements per minute across genres. Modern dance class had the most spinal flexion (89 ± 53.6), rotation (60 ± 40.8), and lateral flexion (74 ± 20.7) movements. Ballet performance had the most spinal extension movements (77 ± 69.8), jumps (74 ± 48), and leaps (19 ± 18.2). Hip-hop breaking had the highest number of falling movements (2 ± 2.3). Partnering movements were only present in ballet performance, modern dance performance, and hip-hop breaking environments.

Conclusions:

Movements that increase LBP occur often in all 3 dance genres. Dancers can expect frequent exposure to spinal extension movements; therefore, we recommend strengthening back and core musculature for all dancers. We recommend that ballet dancers also strengthen their lower extremity muscles. For modern dancers, we recommend strengthening their obliques. For hip-hop dancers, we recommend increasing muscular power and muscular endurance.
The effect of introducing a nurse-practitioner-led peripherally inserted central venous catheter placement program on the utilization of central venous access device: A retrospective study in Japan
Authors: Sakai Hirotaka , Hirosue Miyuki , Iwata Mitsunaga , Terasawa Teruhiko
Published: June 2023

Background:

Nurse-led peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) placement teams are common in western hospitals, but they are still in their infancy in Japan. Although implementing a dedicated program may improve ongoing vascular-access management, the direct hospital-level effects of launching a nurse-led PICC team on specific outcomes have not been formally investigated.

Objectives:

To evaluate the effect of introducing a nurse practitioner (NP)-led PICC-placement program on subsequent utilization of centrally inserted central catheters (CICCs) and to contrast the quality of PICC placements conducted by physicians and NPs.

Materials and methods:

Patients who underwent central venous access devices (CVADs) between 2014 and 2020 at a university hospital in Japan were evaluated retrospectively using an interrupted time-series analysis on the trend for monthly CVAD utilization and logistic regression and propensity score-based analyses for PICC-related complications.

Results:

Among 6007 CVAD placements, 2230 PICCs were inserted into 1658 patients (725 by physicians and 1505 by NPs). The monthly number of CICC utilization fell from 58 in April 2014 to 38 in March 2020, while PICC placements by the NP PICC team increased from 0 to 104. The implementation of the NP PICC program reduced the immediate rate (by 35.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 24.1–46.9; p < 0.001) and post-intervention trend (by 2.3; 95% CI: 1.1–3.5; p < 0.001) of monthly CICC utilization. Overall immediate complication rates were lower in the NP group than the physician group (1.5% vs 5.1%; adjusted odds ratio = 0.31; 95% CI: 0.17–0.59; p < 0.001). The cumulative incidences of central line-associated bloodstream infections were comparable between the NP and physician groups (5.9% vs 7.2%; adjusted hazard ratio = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.53–1.75; p = .90).

Conclusions:

This NP-led PICC program reduced CICC utilization without affecting the quality of PICC placement or complication rate.
‘It is like talking to very good robots’: Experiences of online support groups for parents with babies during the COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom
Authors: Lucas Siân E , Bellussi Laura
Published: June 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many face-to-face group activities for new parents moved online. In this article, we share findings from 14 interviews conducted during the first lockdown in the United Kingdom with parents of babies under 12 months about their experiences of participating in online groups. Attendance at groups was treated as a survival mechanism or even a panacea for some parents, providing well-rounded entertainment and support for parents, their children and the parenting relationship. However, reviews of the online groups were mixed, with some deemed more adequate than others for online delivery. Parents expressed concerns about the lack of informal spaces in online contexts to share private conversations and the unnatural group conversations affected by the custom of taking turns to talk. These experiences highlighted what was important to parents: the need for the embodiment of connection. The peculiarity of the online setting saw the emergence of parenting display work; parental awareness of online impression management and self-presentation strategies. While online technologies are ubiquitous, online groups for parents are nascent, and these technologies require careful analysis and evaluation from users and facilitators.
Mississippi School Food Service Directors’ Interest and Experience With Local Food Procurement and Farm to School Activities
Authors: Thomson Jessica L. , Landry Alicia S. , Walls Tameka I.
Published: June 2023

Background.

The purpose of this study was to collect updated school food service purchasing practices from K-12 public school food service directors (SFSD) in Mississippi and to determine their current abilities, experiences, and desires to engage in Farm to School (F2S) activities.

Methods.

The online survey was created using questionnaire items from existing F2S surveys. The survey opened in October 2021 and closed in January 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data.

Results.

Of the 173 SFSD sent email invitations, 122 (71%) completed the survey. The most common fresh fruit and vegetable purchasing practices included Department of Defense Fresh Program (65%) and produce vendor (64%). Forty-three percent of SFSD purchased at least one locally sourced fruit and 40% purchased at least one locally sourced vegetable, while 46% did not purchase any locally sourced foods. The most common challenges for purchasing from farmers included no relationship with farmers (50%) and food safety regulations (39%). Sixty-four percent of SFSD were interested in at least one F2S activity.

Conclusions.

Most SFSD do not purchase local foods directly from farmers and almost half do not purchase any local foods regardless of source. Lack of connection with local farmers is a significant challenge to F2S. Recently proposed framework by USDA for shoring up the food supply chain and transforming the food system may help reduce or remove ongoing challenges to F2S participation.
Impact of System-F in Delivering Vascular Plugs for Aortic Side Branch Embolization During Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Mine Takahiko , Ikeda Shinpei , Mizushima Shohei , Happoh Seigoh , Takashi Yukiko , Fujitsuna Ryutaro , Ueda Tatsuo , Kawase Yasuhiro , Fujii Masahiro , Kumita Shin-ichiro
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to illustrate the utility of our original system to deliver vascular plugs into aortic side branches during endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Technique:

Our device, which we named “System-F,” consists of a 14 Fr sheath, a 12 Fr long sheath with a side hole, a stiff guidewire as a shaft, and a parallelly-inserted delivery catheter navigated through the side hole into the aneurysm sac. Vertical motion and horizontal rotation of the side hole allow multidimensional movement of the delivery catheter within the aneurysm. This system was applied in 7 cases undergoing EVAR; 4 inferior mesenteric arteries and 14 lumbar arteries were embolized using vascular plugs. Type II endoleak (T2EL) was not observed in the follow-up survey of any case. Conclusion: The applicability of System-F for vascular plug placement in the side branches of abdominal aortic aneurysms has the potential to achieve high delivery capability and be widely applied for the prevention of T2EL.

Clinical Impact

System-F has potential to change the strategies of pre-EVAR embolization.
Dendrobium Nobile Polysaccharides Attenuates Ferroptosis and Improves Cognitive Function in Vascular Dementia Rats
Authors: Ming Min , Hu Weihua , Xie Gaosheng , Chen Jianping , Huang Ying
Published: June 2023

Introduction

To investigate the neuroprotective effect and mechanism of Dendrobium nobile polysaccharide (DNP) on vascular dementia (VD) rats.

Methods

VD model rats were prepared by permanent ligation of bilateral common carotid arteries. Cognitive function was tested by morris water maze test, mitochondrial morphology and ultrastructure of hippocampal synapses were tested by transmission electron microscopy, GSH, xCT, GPx4, and PSD-95 expressions were tested by western blot and PCR.

Results

The number of platform crossing was significantly increased, and the escape latency was significantly shorter in DNP group. The expressions of GSH, xCT and GPx4 in the hippocampus were up-regulated in DNP group. Moreover, the synapses of DNP group were relatively intact and synaptic vesicles increased, the length of synaptic active zone and PSD thickness were significantly increased, and PSD-95 protein expression was significantly up-regulated compared VD group.

Conclusion

DNP may take a neuroprotective effect by inhibiting ferroptosis in VD.
How Can a Focal Seizure Lead to a Dacrystic Behavior? A Case Analyzed with Functional Connectivity in Stereoelectroencephalography
Authors: Marx Barbara , Medina-Villalon Samuel , Bartolomei Fabrice , Lagarde Stanislas
Published: June 2023

We present a case of a patient with focal non-motor emotional seizures with dacrystic expression in the context of drug-resistant magnetic resonance imaging negative epilepsy. The pre-surgical evaluation suggested a hypothesis of a right fronto-temporal epileptogenic zone. Stereoelectroencephalography recorded dacrystic seizures arising from the right anterior operculo-insular ( pars orbitalis) area with secondary propagation to temporal and parietal cortices during the dacrystic behavior. We analyzed functional connectivity during the ictal dacrystic behavior and found an increase of the functional connectivity within a large right fronto-temporo-insular network, broadly similar to the “emotional excitatory” network. It suggests that focal seizure, potentially, from various origins but leading to disorganization of these physiological networks may generate dacrystic behavior.
Men With Both Diabetes and a Family History of Diabetes Were Associated With Depressed Mood in Korean Adults
Authors: Kim Yeong-Hoon , Jung Kyu-In , Song Chan-Hee
Published: June 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is strongly associated with depression, especially in women. This study was designed to investigate the gender-specific association between DM and depressive mood by family history of diabetes. Data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a population-based cross-sectional survey in 2020, were used. Of 6,133 participants aged 19 years or older, 4,259 participants were included after excluding participants without data of laboratory or physical examination, medical or family history of diseases, or depression scores of Patient Health Questionnaire–9. We examined associations of glucose and insulin metabolism, and DM with depressed mood by sex and family history of diabetes using logistic regression analyses with three stepwise models. In men, fasting glucose and HbA1c (odds ratio [OR]: 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.10, 1.42]) levels were significantly associated with depressed mood. Men with DM and a family history of diabetes were also significantly associated with depressed mood (OR: 1.84, 95% CI: [1.12, 3.05]), whereas DM without a family history showed no association. In women, glucose and insulin metabolism had no associations with depressed mood, and DM was also not associated with depressed mood regardless of a family history of diabetes. In Korean adults, DM with a family history of diabetes and glucose metabolism showed significant associations with depressed mood in men, but not in women. Our results suggest that men with both DM and a family history of diabetes should be paid more attention to depressed moods, considering ethnic characteristics.
Lawyers Writing History: The Politics of the Past of the United Restitution Organisation (URO) from 1948 to the 1980s
Authors: Siemens Daniel
Published: June 2023

This article explores the Geschichts- and Vergangenheitspolitik, or politics of the past, of the United Restitution Office/Organisation (URO) in the post-war years and asks how it impacted on the early historiography of the Holocaust. I demonstrate that the URO leadership took a conscious decision to publicly downplay the role of its organisation in German reparations to maximise its legal and political clout behind closed doors. While this strategy was beneficial for many of URO's clients, above all in the 1950s and 1960s, this self-marginalisation prevented the organisation from becoming a significant voice in the public debates about German moral guilt and its consequences in the 1970s and 1980s. One reason for this development was generational. The URO was an enterprise driven by a particular cohort of German-Jewish lawyers for whom it provided an opportunity to personally ‘come to terms’ with the interruptions of their pre-1933 careers and the persecution during the Third Reich. In the post-war period, their legal expertise as well as their intimate knowledge of the German language and customs allowed them to act as transnational citizen diplomats, successfully mediating between the different parties and interest groups, governments and non-governmental lobby groups. For most of these Jewish jurists, their practical experience with their German peers, politicians and the administrators of the German Wiedergutmachung led to an increasing scepticism and ultimately disappointment – despite the undisputedly impressive results that they obtained for their clients.
A block-diagonally preconditioned Uzawa splitting iteration method for solving a class of saddle-point problems
Authors: Wu Bo , Gao Xing-Bao
Published: June 2023

This paper develops a block diagonal preconditioned Uzawa splitting (BDP-US) method for solving saddle point problems by generalizing the Uzawa splitting iteration method proposed by Li and Ma ( Numer Math Theory Methods Appl 2018; 11: 235–246). A sufficient condition is then provided to ensure the convergence of the BDP-US method. Meanwhile, a preconditioner on the basis of the BDP-US method is proposed, the spectral properties of the preconditioned matrix is analyzed, and the choice of the parameters for this matrix splitting iteration method is discussed. Numerical results are provided to support the obtained results, and demonstrate the effectiveness of BDP-US method as well as the corresponding preconditioner.
Should we take care of each other? Enhancing COVID-19 protective behaviors, a study in Chile, Mexico, and Colombia
Authors: Salazar-Fernández Camila , Baeza-Rivera María José , Salinas-Oñate Natalia , Manríquez-Robles Diego
Published: June 2023

The literature has suggested that social norms and perceptions of risk and severity are critical variables in predicting protective health behaviors. Using an integrative conceptual framework, this study evaluates educational level, socioeconomic status, injunctive pro-care norms, perception of risk, and severity of COVID-19 as predictors of hygiene behaviors, mask use, and physical distancing. Participants included 2,075 adults from Chile, Mexico, and Colombia, three countries with the worst pandemic management. A structural equation model including the hypothesized structure of relations among the study variables fitted the data well and was invariant among Chilean, Mexican, and Colombian data. As proposed, injunctive pro-care norms against COVID-19 predicted protective health behaviors directly and indirectly through the perception of the risk and severity of COVID-19, and educational level predicted pro-care norms against COVID-19. These findings are essential in light of the development of prevention campaigns and the promotion of COVID-19 care strategies.
Wisdom of the Outsiders Within: How Career Technical Education Leaders Can Inform Educational Leadership Preparation
Authors: Willis Chris , LaVenia Kristina N. , Galletta Horner Christy
Published: June 2023

This study examines insights from Career and Technical Education (CTE) leaders that help to better inform the preparation of all school leaders. CTE leaders find themselves in the interesting position of being inside the PK-12 system but at the outside edge. This outsider within perspective not only gives CTE leaders a unique understanding of schools but also on the preparation of school leaders. These practitioners helped to identify three key areas of focus for leadership preparation: a new focus on college and career readiness, the importance of instructional leadership, and an expanded understanding of community.
Trends in mortality from infection among patients with hematologic malignancies: differences according to hematologic malignancy subtype
Authors: Yin Xuejiao , Hu Xuelian , Tong Hongyan , You Liangshun
Published: June 2023

Background:

Infection is the most important cause of non-relapse mortality in hematologic malignancy patients, leading to increased costs and prolonged hospitalization times. However, comprehensive and comparable reports on infection-specific mortality (ISM) trends in hematologic malignancy patients are lacking.

Objectives:

We aimed to provide updated ISM trends and factors associated with ISM among hematologic malignancy patients.

Design:

This is a retrospective study.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed with the five most common hematologic malignancies from 1983 to 2016 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database were included. Joinpoint regression was used to analyze mortality trends.

Results:

ISM decreased beginning in 1983, 1988, and 1994, with yearly decreases of −2.1% for acute leukemia (AL), −1.3% for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), and −14.3% for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). In contrast, ISM in patients with chronic leukemia (CL) and multiple myeloma (MM) increased dramatically beginning in 2000, with yearly increases of 2.8% and 3.3%, respectively. ISM rates were higher in males than in females across all hematologic malignancy subtypes. The mortality trends significantly differed according to race, age, sex, and stage, which could help in further etiological investigations. Moreover, male sex, older age at diagnosis, black race, and unmarried status were poor prognostic factors for ISM across all hematologic malignancy subtypes.

Conclusion:

A promising downward trend in ISM in recent years occurred in patients with AL, HL, and NHL; however, ISM increased dramatically in patients with CL and MM. Our data suggest that risk assessment and careful infection monitoring are recommended for hematologic malignancy patients, particularly those with CL and MM.
Joint use of population pharmacokinetics and machine learning for optimizing antiepileptic treatment in pediatric population
Authors: Damnjanović Ivana , Tsyplakova Nastia , Stefanović Nikola , Tošić Tatjana , Catić-Đorđević Aleksandra , Karalis Vangelis
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Unpredictable drug efficacy and safety of combined antiepileptic therapy is a major challenge during pharmacotherapy decisions in everyday clinical practice. The aim of this study was to describe the pharmacokinetics of valproic acid (VA), lamotrigine (LTG), and levetiracetam (LEV) in a pediatric population using nonlinear mixed-effect modeling, while machine learning (ML) algorithms were applied to identify any relationships among the plasma levels of the three medications and patients’ characteristics, as well as to develop a predictive model for epileptic seizures.

Methods:

The study included 71 pediatric patients of both genders, aged 2–18 years, on combined antiepileptic therapy. Population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) models were developed separately for VA, LTG, and LEV. Based on the estimated pharmacokinetic parameters and the patients’ characteristics, three ML approaches were applied (principal component analysis, factor analysis of mixed data, and random forest). PopPK models and ML models were developed, allowing for greater insight into the treatment of children on antiepileptic treatment.

Results:

Results from the PopPK model showed that the kinetics of LEV, LTG, and VA were best described by a one compartment model with first-order absorption and elimination kinetics. Reliance on random forest model is a compelling vision that shows high prediction ability for all cases. The main factor that can affect antiepileptic activity is antiepileptic drug levels, followed by body weight, while gender is irrelevant. According to our study, children’s age is positively associated with LTG levels, negatively with LEV and without the influence of VA.

Conclusion:

The application of PopPK and ML models may be useful to improve epilepsy management in vulnerable pediatric population during the period of growth and development.
Solitary, adult-onset, intraosseous myofibroma of the rib: a case report and literature review
Authors: Weidlich Anne , Pablik Jessica , Schaser Klaus-Dieter , Winkler Doreen , Mehnert Elisabeth , Fritzsche Hagen
Published: June 2023

Myofibromas are rare benign tumors with myofibroblastic origin. They occur especially in cutis and subcutaneous tissue of the head and the neck, less frequently on the extremities. Myofibromas grow very slowly and are often painless, which is why patients often present relatively late. In the literature, there were many reports about intraosseous myofibromas of the craniofascial bones but reports of the trunk and extremities in adults are very rare. The authors present a very rare case of an intraosseous myofibroma of the ribs resulting in pathological fracture, including a research of literature from other cases of intraosseous myofibromas of the trunk or extremities.
The effectiveness of embedded values analysis modules in Computer Science education: An empirical study
Authors: Kopec Matthew , Magnani Meica , Ricks Vance , Torosyan Roben , Basl John , Miklaucic Nicholas , Muzny Felix , Sandler Ronald , Wilson Christo , Wisniewski-Jensen Adam , Lundgren Cora , Baylon Ryan , Mills Kevin , Wells Mark
Published: June 2023

Embedding ethics modules within computer science courses has become a popular response to the growing recognition that computer science programs need to better equip their students to navigate the ethical dimensions of computing technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics. However, the popularity of this approach has outpaced the evidence of its positive outcomes. To help close that gap, this empirical study reports positive results from Northeastern University's program that embeds values analysis modules into computer science courses. The resulting data suggest that such modules have a positive effect on students’ moral attitudes and that students leave the modules believing they are more prepared to navigate the ethical dimensions they will likely face in their eventual careers. Importantly, these gains were accomplished at an institution without a philosophy doctoral program, suggesting this strategy can be effectively employed by a wider range of institutions than many have thought.
Skin fragility in a cat presenting with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Hardy Lorna , Gil-Morales Claudia , Maunder Christina , Paran Emilie
Published: June 2023

Case summary

A case of skin fragility in an 8-year-old domestic shorthair cat with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism is described. The cat was referred to the Feline Centre at Langford Small Animal Hospital with a 2-month history of multiple skin wounds with no known traumatic aetiology. A low-dose dexamethasone suppression test was performed before referral, which was consistent with hyperadrenocorticism. On presentation, the cat had multiple cutaneous lacerations and patchy areas of alopecia. CT was performed, which revealed a pituitary mass most consistent with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism. Treatment with oral trilostane (Vetoryl; Dechra) was commenced and clinical improvement was observed; however, further extensive skin lesions as a consequence of her skin fragility resulted in euthanasia.

Relevance and novel information

Hyperadrenocorticism is an uncommon endocrinopathy of cats; however, it is an important differential for skin thinning and non-healing wounds. Skin fragility remains an important factor in the consideration of appropriate treatment protocols and ongoing quality of life in these patients.
“When you Search a #Hashtag, it Feels Like You’re Searching for Death:” Black Twitter and Communication About Police Brutality Within the Black Community
Authors: Hawkins Deion S.
Published: June 2023

Despite heightened levels of scrutiny and enhanced media coverage, excessive force by law enforcement continues to result in the disproportionate death of Black civilians. As a central rallying cry of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, mitigating instances of police brutality is of the utmost importance, and Twitter is a known mobilization and protest tool of the BLM movement. Yet, research surrounding police brutality specifically is sparse as police departments are not mandated to report cases of brutality, and the submission of body camera footage is often nonexistent or delayed. Fortunately, technological advancements, particularly the rise of Black Twitter and smartphones, have radically altered communication about information-seeking related to and knowledge circulation of police brutality. Using Critical Race Theory as the anchor, this qualitative study utilized a trauma-informed interview approach to better understand how Black Americans use Twitter to engage with the timely issue of police brutality. The following themes emerged from the analysis: (1) Remembering #PhilandoCastile, (2) Twitter: place for breaking news, (3) Twitter: organic connections in a Black-centered space, (4) Twitter: Firsthand Accounts/Authenticity, and (5) the dilemma of retweeting graphic images/videos. Findings from this study can be used to better understand how Blackness and social media intersect to impact various fields, including digital media, policing, mental health, and social movements.
The feeling of being home when nearing end-of-life—the example of Norway: A discussion paper
Authors: Staats Katrine , Ervik Bente , Fæø Stein Erik
Published: June 2023

Home is regarded as an important and safe place to be when nearing the end of life. However, for some, the home may be a place where people feel anxious and alone. The aim of this discussion paper is to reflect on the contextual and theoretical meaning of home. We will, based on a broader understanding of home, also suggest that home-deaths can take place both in a home-based care context and a facility-based care context, as the meaning of home belongs to the individual. We will end our discussion by concluding that the actions of care and nurses’ attitudes are of vital importance, so that a feeling of home can be created for patients nearing the end of life, irrespective of their context.
A Very Rare Cause of Dyspnea in a Child: A Hydatid Cyst From Echinococcus
Authors: Carrel Thierry , Sharipov Islam , Vogt Paul R.
Published: June 2023

Hydatid cyst is a human parasitic disease caused by echinococcus granulosus that affects mainly the liver or the lungs but may be found in any organ, including the heart in up to 2% of the cases. Humans are infected as accidental hosts by contaminated vegetables or water and by contact with saliva from infected animals. Although cardiac echinococcosis can be fatal, it is rare and often asymptomatic in the early stage. We present the case of a young boy living on a farm who suffered from mild exertional dyspnea. He suffered from pulmonary and cardiac echinococcosis and was treated surgically through median sternotomy to prevent potential cystic rupture.
Revolt of 1857 and Education in Delhi: Institutions and Policies
Authors: Kumari Sangeeta
Published: June 2023

A strong and extensively developed system of education existed in Punjab before the onset of colonialism in India. Delhi was one of the districts of Punjab Province under the British rule. With the change of power, there came change in all aspects of administration and the system of education was no exception. The focus here is on the changes that were brought about in educational policies and their manifestations within the institutional domains after the Revolt of 1857 until the 1880s. This was also the time when nationalist sentiments were on the rise and organisations like Arya Samaj and Sanatan Dharma played a very important role in spreading education in Delhi.
Minimum Support Price and the Changing Nature of Rural Economy and Its Implications on Agriculture in Haryana
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Sekher Madhushree
Published: June 2023

Agriculture in India is undergoing a shift. It is due to a grim situation of increasing food production and rural economy linked with agriculture. On one side, agriculture production is led by 55% of cereal crops primarily based on minimum support prices (MSPs) by the Government of India. On the other side, horticulture accounts for only 16% of agriculture without many incentives. The cultivation cost is rising day by day. Unlike employee compensation, the market does not support farmers and their products. Despite rising production, sustainable agricultural growth is unlikely because of issues including groundwater depletion, climate change, and poor income. The MSP is driving the change in farmer’s lives in the changing nature of rural economy. However, the economic conditions of farmers have not changed much as the surveyed households (HHs) revealed based on MSP and its significance on economic condition of farmers. About 60% of farmers claimed that their income remained the same, 22% said that their condition got better, while about 14.43% of HHs claimed that their economic situation got worst. The study highlights that sustainable agriculture and changing nature of the rural economy will transform farmers’ conditions if they diversify the production of crops from cereals to non-cereal crops such as protein-based pulses or less water intensive crops such as millets.
Assessing the user satisfaction on COVID-19 vaccination service in Indonesia
Authors: Wijayanti Siwi Pramatama Mars , Rejeki Dwi Sarwani Sri , Rizqi Yuditha Nindya Kartika , Octaviana Devi , Nurlaela Sri
Published: June 2023

Background:

The implementation of the COVID-19 vaccination is still being carried out in Indonesia to enhance immunity against SARS Cov-2 infection. However, the information about vaccination service satisfaction is still very limited. This study aims to assess how satisfied Covid-19 vaccination service users are in Indonesia.

Design and methods:

This is an analytic study with a cross-sectional design was conducted through an online survey in the third week of June 2022. People with a minimum age of 17 years, having received at least one COVID-19 vaccination, and residing in Indonesia were allowed to participate in this study. We used the SERVQUAL model as an instrument, measuring five aspects covering tangibility, responsiveness, reliability, assurance, and empathy. The analysis carried out included univariate analysis and bivariate test using chi-square statistical test.

Results:

A total of 509 respondents were included in this study. The findings of this study revealed that there was not much of a difference between the satisfied (50.1%) and dissatisfied categories (49.9%) of vaccination users. Of the five dimensions measured, the highest level of dissatisfaction is in tangibility particularly on facility (48.7%), while the highest level of satisfaction is in reliability (the vaccination service following applicable procedures; 59.7%). We find out that vaccination location ( p = 0.038), provision of refreshment/reward/incentives ( p = 0.001), providing emergency contact post-vaccination ( p = 0.000), and observation time post-vaccination ( p = 0.000) were associated with the satisfaction of users.

Conclusion:

Many respondents in this study are still dissatisfied with the COVID-19 vaccination services, so it is necessary for taking continuous efforts to raise the quality of vaccination services to increase user satisfaction.
Impact of a staggered scaffold structure on the mechanical properties and cell response in bone tissue engineering
Authors: He Xiaoli , Zhao Qian , Zhang Ningning , Wang Junbin , Si Qingzong , Xue Ying , Xing Zhe
Published: June 2023

The primary goal of bone tissue engineering is to fabricate scaffolds that can provide a microenvironment similar to that of natural bone. Therefore, various scaffolds have been designed to replicate the bone structure. Although most tissues exhibit complicated structures, their basic structural unit includes stiff platelets arranged in a staggered micro-array. Therefore, many researchers have designed scaffolds with staggered patterns. However, relatively few studies have comprehensively analyzed this type of scaffold. In this review, we have analyzed scientific research pertaining to staggered scaffold designs and summarized their effects on the physical and biological properties of scaffolds. Compression tests or finite element analysis are typically used to evaluate the mechanical properties of scaffolds, and most studies have performed experiments in cell cultures. Staggered scaffolds improve mechanical strength and are beneficial for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation in comparison with conventional designs. However, very few have been studied in vivo experiments. Additionally, studies on the effect of staggered structures on angiogenesis or bone regeneration in vivo, particularly in large animals, are required. Currently, with the prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies, highly optimized models can be developed, resulting in better discoveries. In the future, AI can be used to deepen our understanding on the staggered structure, promoting its use in clinical applications.