bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O estado deparado com a regulação global: reflexões sobre a crise ou adaptação técnica do estado a partir do caso da distribuição de medicamentos ineficazes durante a pandemia da Covid-19
Authors: Silva Emílio Mendonça Dias da
Published: November 2023

A distribuição de medicamentos ineficazes para o tratamento da COVID-19, no Brasil, provocou divisão sobre como os padrões de segurança científica devem ancorar as decisões tomadas pelas instituições nacionais diante de um quadro regulatório complexo e globalizado. Neste artigo, argumento que a circunstância revela tensão entre um padrão nuclear de discricionariedade da administração para a definição de políticas públicas e um raciocínio periférico de segurança científica próprio da sociedade de risco. Ao fazê-lo, problematizo a compreensão de Estado para questionar se a tensão indica crise ou sua adaptação à sociedade da técnica. Para tanto, exploro as tradições que concebem o Estado como expressão de unidade volitiva soberana, bem como aquelas que enxergam o Estado como monopólio da força, incluindo a força simbólica, para fins de construção do sentido de oficialidade e legitimação. Concluo que a regulação e a forma como os Estados lidam com o risco comprimem o espaço da discricionariedade administrativa e, com ela, o senso de representação política para legitimação da decisão. A percepção da crise do Estado, no entanto, varia de acordo com a perspectiva que se tenha sobre seu conceito e funcionamento.
As sanções processuais do direito romano à litigância temerária
Authors: Dias Junior Sergio Lima
Published: November 2023

Assim como hodiernamente o Código de Processo Civil (“CPC/15”) sanciona a litigância de má-fé, em seus arts. 79 a 81, os juristas romanos também lidaram, a seu modo, com o problema das condutas ditas chicaneiras no âmbito de um processo. Conforme o relato de Gaio (Gai. 4, 171), o comportamento de ambas as partes de uma relação jurídica processual poderia ser sancionado: tanto a temeridade (“temeritas”) do réu quanto a chicana ou calúnia (“calumnia”) do autor eram objeto de punição. Este artigo cuida dos institutos que, de acordo com a exposição de Gaio (Gai. 4, 174 et seq.), em seu manual “Institutiones”, destinavam-se, no direito romano de seu tempo, a sancionar os autores de ações levianas ou temerárias. O texto compreende, pois, desde as promessas solenes (“sponsio” e “restipulatio”), das quais decorria uma obrigação para a parte sucumbente de pagar à outra uma pena pecuniária, até um juramento, de ordem religiosa, contra a chicana (“iusiurandum calumniae”). Este artigo cuida também do iudicium contrarium, meio mais severo de sanção, que, quando empregado pelo réu, impunha ao autor derrotado, independentemente de culpa, o pagamento de uma quantia em dinheiro, e do iudicium calumniae, destinado à punição do autor que, mesmo ciente de não ter direito algum, intentasse uma ação.
Capitalismo, direito e derivação: um estudo crítico em Max Weber
Authors: Tranjan Alexandre de Lima Castro , Neves Brenda Barros
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo se destinou à discussão da obra Economia e Sociedade, de Max Weber, a partir do referencial teórico crítico, aqui compreendido como a sociologia marxista. Mais especificamente, procedeu-se à análise estrutural dos capítulos da obra que dizem respeito à sociologia do direito e às relações do fenômeno jurídico com o âmbito econômico. O referencial crítico utilizado, por sua vez, correspondeu à obra de Pachukanis intitulada Teoria Geral do Direito e Marxismo, bem como algumas de suas leituras posteriores. Ao longo do texto, discute-se a determinação do direito pela economia, ainda que a interferência deste sobre aquela não seja ignorada, como se as instituições jurídicas fossem apenas desdobramentos secundários das relações econômicas. Ao contrário, tanto para Weber quanto para Pachukanis, a forma jurídica (expressão deste último) é essencial para a constituição não só da circulação de mercadorias, mas também para o próprio estabelecimento das relações de produção. Para o alemão, a normativa racional permite sobretudo a previsibilidade das relações jurídicas, do que dependem os empreendimentos econômicos. Para o soviético, a constituição dos indivíduos como sujeitos de direito é momento decisivo para que a troca de mercadorias – dentre as quais a força de trabalho – seja realizada por contrato.
Proteção da saúde e segurança do consumidor no fornecimento de alimentos
Authors: Morato Antonio Carlos
Published: November 2023

O tema da proteção da saúde e segurança do consumidor é essencial na Lei Federal n. 8.079/90 (Código de Defesa do Consumidor) e sua aplicação ao fornecimento de alimentos se encontra na origem das leis protetivas aos consumidores, sendo oportuno ressaltar a existência de texto específico publicado nesta revista pelo Professor João Arruda em 1934, no qual já identificava a necessidade de intervenção estatal para a proteção ao consumidor em tais casos.
Basigin Deficiency Induces Spontaneous Polycystic Kidney in Mice
Authors: Zhong Fangyuan , Li Wenli , Zhao Chenxu , Jin Lixing , Lu Xiyuan , Zhao Yichao , Pu Jun , Ge Heng
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:

Polycystic kidney disease is the most common hereditary kidney disorder with early and frequent hypertension symptoms. The mechanisms of cyst progression in polycystic kidney disease remain incompletely understood.

METHODS:

Bsg (basigin) heterozygous and homozygous knockout mice were generated using cas9 system, and Bsg overexpression was achieved by adeno-associated virus serotype 9 injection. Renal morphology was investigated through histological and imaging analysis. Molecular analysis was performed through transcriptomic profiling and biochemical approaches.

RESULTS:

Bsg-deficient mice exhibited significantly elevated arterial blood pressure. Further investigation demonstrated that Bsg deficiency triggers spontaneous cystic formation in mouse kidneys, which shares similar cyst pathological features and common transcriptional regulatory pathways with human polycystic kidney disease. Moreover, Bsg disruption promoted polycystin-1 ubiquitination and degradation, leading to activation of polycystic kidney disease associated cAMP and AMPK signaling pathways in Bsg knockout mouse kidneys. Finally, adeno-associated virus serotype 9 mediated Bsg reexpression reversed cystic progression in Bsg knockout mice in vivo, and Bsg overexpression inhibited the expansion of Madin-Darby canine kidney cysts in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings show that Bsg deficiency leads to an early-onset spontaneous polycystic kidney phenotype, suggesting that dysregulated Bsg signaling may be a contributing factor in cystogenesis.
Burden of Ischemic Heart Disease and Its Attributable Risk Factors in North Africa and the Middle East, 1990 to 2019: Results From the GBD Study 2019
Authors: Aminorroaya Arya , Saeedi Moghaddam Sahar , Tavolinejad Hamed , Aryan Zahra , Heidari Behnam , Ebrahimi Hedyeh , Naderian Mohammadreza , Shobeiri Parnian , Ghanbari Ali , Rezaei Nazila , Malekpour Mohammad‐Reza , Haghshenas Rosa , Rezaei Negar , Larijani Bagher , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: November 2023

Background

The North Africa and Middle East (NAME) region has one of the highest burdens of ischemic heart disease (IHD) worldwide. This study reports the contemporary epidemiology of IHD in NAME.

Methods and Results

We estimated the incidence, prevalence, deaths, years of life lost, years lived with disability, disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs), and premature mortality of IHD, and its attributable risk factors in NAME from 1990 to 2019 using the results of the GBD (Global Burden of Disease study 2019). In 2019, 0.8 million lives and 18.0 million DALYs were lost due to IHD in NAME. From 1990 to 2019, the age‐standardized DALY rate of IHD significantly decreased by 33.3%, mostly due to the reduction of years of life lost rather than years lived with disability. In 2019, the proportion of premature death attributable to IHD was higher in NAME compared with global measures: 26.8% versus 16.9% for women and 18.4% versus 14.8% for men, respectively. The age‐standardized DALY rate of IHD attributed to metabolic risks, behavioral risks, and environmental/occupational risks significantly decreased by 28.7%, 37.8%, and 36.4%, respectively. Dietary risk factors, high systolic blood pressure, and high low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were the top 3 risks contributing to the IHD burden in most countries of NAME in 2019.

Conclusions

In 2019, IHD was the leading cause of death and lost DALYs in NAME, where premature death due to IHD was greater than the global average. Despite the great reduction in the age‐standardized DALYs of IHD in NAME from 1990 to 2019, this region still had the second‐highest burden of IHD in 2019 globally.
Synchrony in auditory 40-Hz gamma oscillations increases in older age and correlates with hearing abilities and cortical GABA levels
Authors: Dobri Simon , Chen J. Jean , Ross Bernhard
Published: November 2023

Synchronized 40-Hz gamma oscillations in specific sensory and higher-order thalamocortical networks provide a neural mechanism for feature binding. Aging-related changes in gamma oscillations may cause deficits in auditory feature binding, contributing to impaired speech-in-noise perception. Gamma synchrony is controlled through inhibitory mechanisms mediated by the neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has been shown to decline in aging. This study investigated aging-related changes in gamma oscillations and how they relate to auditory function and cortical GABA levels. Magnetoencephalograms of 40-Hz auditory steady-state responses (ASSRs) were recorded in young and older adults by presenting amplitude-modulated tones in quiet and mixed with concurrent multi-talker babble noise. Responses in the quiet condition had longer latencies and more prominent amplitudes, indicating the 40-Hz ASSRs in noise were dominated by a sensory component and in quiet by a component involved in higher-order processing. The ASSR amplitudes increased in older adults under both stimulus conditions. However, larger ASSR amplitudes were associated with more severe hearing and speech-in-noise loss only in the noise condition. This suggests the aging-related increase in synchrony of sensory gamma oscillations has a detrimental effect on auditory processing. It may cause increased interference between competing sounds in the central auditory system, making it difficult for the aging auditory system to separate speech features from noise and bind them into a distinct perceptual object. Also in older adults, larger amplitudes of the 40-Hz ASSRs in the quiet condition were associated with higher left auditory cortex GABA concentrations measured with magnetic resonance spectroscopy, supporting GABA’s role in internally generated gamma synchrony in aging.
Directional sensitivity of cortical neurons towards TMS-induced
electric fields
Authors: Weise Konstantin , Worbs Torge , Kalloch Benjamin , Souza Victor H. , Jaquier Aurélien Tristan , Van Geit Werner , Thielscher Axel , Knösche Thomas R.
Published: November 2023

We derived computationally efficient average response models of different types of cortical neurons, which are subject to external electric fields from Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. We used 24 reconstructions of pyramidal cells (PC) from layer 2/3, 245 small, nested, and large basket cells from layer 4, and 30 PC from layer 5 with different morphologies for deriving average models. With these models, it is possible to efficiently estimate the stimulation thresholds depending on the underlying electric field distribution in the brain, without having to implement and compute complex neuron compartment models. The stimulation thresholds were determined by exposing the neurons to TMS-induced electric fields with different angles, intensities, pulse waveforms, and field decays along the somato-dendritic axis. The derived average response models were verified by reference simulations using a high-resolution realistic head model containing several million neurons. The relative errors of the estimated thresholds between the average model and the reference model ranged between -3% and 3.7% in 98% of the cases, while the computation time was only a fraction of a second compared to several weeks. Finally, we compared the model behavior to TMS experiments and observed high correspondence to the orientation sensitivity of motor evoked potentials. The derived models were compared to the classical cortical column cosine model and to simplified ball-and-stick neurons. It was shown that both models oversimplify the complex interplay between the electric field and the neurons and do not adequately represent the directional sensitivity of the different cell types. The derived models are simple to apply and only require the TMS-induced electric field in the brain as input variable. The models and code are available to the general public in open-source repositories for integration into TMS studies to estimate the expected stimulation thresholds for an improved dosing and treatment planning in the future.
Racialization and International Security
Authors: Maass Richard W.
Published: November 2023

Racialization—the processes that infuse social and political phenomena with racial identities and implications—is an assertion of power, a claim of purportedly inherent differences that has saturated modern diplomacy, order, and violence. Despite the field's consistent interest in power, international security studies in the United States largely omitted racial dynamics from decades of debates about international conflict and cooperation, nuclear proliferation, power transitions, unipolarity, civil wars, terrorism, international order, grand strategy, and other subjects. A new framework lays conceptual bedrock, links relevant literatures to major research agendas in international security, cultivates interdisciplinary dialogues, and charts promising paths to consider how overt and embedded racialization shape the study and practice of international security. A discussion of several research design challenges for integrating racialization into existing and new research agendas helps scholars reconsider how they approach questions of race and security. Beyond diversifying the professoriat itself, revealing and countering embedded biases are crucial to determine how alternative ideas have been marginalized, and, ultimately, to develop better theories.
Abusive Supervision and Its Relationship With Nursing Workforce and Patient Safety Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Labrague Leodoro J.
Published: November 2023

Despite efforts to improve management and leadership behaviors among nurse managers, studies have shown the pervasive nature of abusive supervision in nursing practice, with strong evidence linking this type of behavior to reduced work productivity among nurses. This systematic review aimed to appraise and synthesize peer-reviewed studies that examine nurse-related and patient safety outcomes associated with abusive supervision. The review searched nursing literature from five databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) between August and November 2022. A total of 21 relevant studies were identified, with the Abusive Supervision Scale being the most frequently used measurement tool. Through content analysis, the review identified 29 outcomes which were categorized into six groups: (a) affective-based, (b) behavior/performance-based, (c) relationship-based, (d) cognitive-based, (e) health and well-being, and (f) nursing care. In addition, 10 mediators were identified and grouped into three categories: (a) affective-based, (b) motivation-based, and (c) health and well-being. The review findings provide compelling evidence regarding the detrimental effects of abusive supervision in the nursing workforce. Moreover, the review emphasizes the need for further research to explore how such behavior can impact patient safety outcomes. To address abusive supervision, it is crucial to promote positive behaviors among nurse managers through human resource mechanisms, relevant rules and policies, and theory-driven leadership development programs.
When “Sometimes” Means “Often”: How Stereotypes Affect Interpretations of Quantitative Expressions
Authors: Beukeboom Camiel J. , van der Meer Jesper , Burgers Christian
Published: November 2023

Two experiments investigated whether interpretations of quantitative expressions about described actors’ behaviors are influenced by stereotypic expectancies. Participants rated sentences containing frequency adverbs describing either stereotype-consistent or stereotype-inconsistent behaviors. Results showed that recipients inferred a higher numerical frequency when sentences described stereotype-consistent (vs inconsistent) behaviors. These effects of stereotype consistency were stronger for high (vs low) degree frequency adverbs. The findings show how neutral statements about a person can be interpreted as stereotype-confirming information and thus contribute to stereotype maintenance.
Management of primary and recurrent Bartholin’s gland carcinoma: A systematic review on behalf of MITO Rare Cancer Group
Authors: Turetta Camilla , Mazzeo Roberta , Capalbo Giuseppe , Miano Salvatora , Fruscio Robert , Di Donato Violante , Falcone Francesca , Mangili Giorgia , Pignata Sandro , Palaia Innocenza
Published: November 2023

Bartholin gland carcinoma is an extremely rare disease. Information regarding treatment is scarce and there is no strict consensus on best practice. All studies reporting cases of Bartholin’s gland cancer were screened and evaluated for inclusion. Baseline characteristics of studies were extracted. A total number of 290 manuscripts collected were available for the review process. Studies included in a previous systematic review were not duplicated. In total, details of 367 patients were collected, as follows: histological features, clinical presentation, treatment, recurrent rate, treatment of recurrence and outcome. About 35% of Bartholin gland carcinoma were squamous cell carcinoma. Almost 50% of patients presented with advanced stage. The therapeutic approach was mainly surgery, and in 61% of those women lymph node assessment was performed. Recurrence occurred in 21% of cases. Bartholin gland cancer remains a challenge for gynecologic oncologists. Guidelines, centralization to referral centers and standardized therapy are needed.
Wiidookaage’Win: A Community-Based Qualitative Approach to Developing a Facebook Group Intervention for Native Women to Support Recovery From Opioid Use
Authors: Young Antonia , Sinicrope Pamela , Kelpin Sydney , Roche Anne I. , Sabaque Corinna , Pham Cuong , Marsch Lisa A , Campbell Aimee N. C. , Venner Kamilla , Bastian Emily , Nord Teresa , Mason Gail , Baker Laiel , Wyatt Thomas , Fish Amy , Bart Gavin , Patten Christi A.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To develop a culturally-tailored American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) women’s Facebook group supporting opioid recovery as an adjunct to medication.

Design

Community-based, qualitative approach.

Setting

Minnesota, U.S.

Participants

AI/AN women in opioid recovery, interested parties, and a Community Advisory Committee (CAC) of AI/AN women with lived experience, health care providers, and community members.

Intervention

We developed evidence-based content focusing on stress/trauma and substance use, mindfulness, responding to triggers, and supportive community resources. Additional content centered on AI/AN culture was also selected.

Method

Interviews were conducted by two women, then transcribed and coded using content analysis with NVivo software. Results were presented to CAC for further content refinement.

Results

CAC members (n = 10) guided study methods, intervention development, and dissemination activities. 14 AI/AN women (mean age 36.4 years; mean 6.7 months opioid abstinence) and 12 interested parties (7 men, 5 women) were receptive to an AI/AN gender-specific Facebook group, preferring content with AI/AN people and/or text resonating with AI/AN culture (e.g., Native traditions, family, personal stories, historical trauma). Recommendations included (1) protect confidentiality, (2) retain positivity, (3) incorporate resources and exercises to build coping skills, and (4) moderators should be authentic and relatable to build trust.

Conclusions

Our approach provides a model for developing culturally tailored, appealing and effective social media interventions to support AI/AN women in recovery from opioid use disorder.
Public spending and austerity: The two faces of the French Investor State
Authors: Lepont Ulrike
Published: November 2023

This article delves into the paradoxical nature of post-2008 fiscal policies, where there is a simultaneous emphasis on valuing public investment on the one hand, and maintaining austerity on the other. It sheds light on this paradox through the concept of “Investor State,” which refers to contemporary states’ ambition to redefine their role in the economy by no longer limiting themselves to a regulatory role but rather seeking an active role as “investor.” We argue that this redefinition of the state's role is of piece with the elevation of investment as a new standard for legitimizing state actions. On the flipside, by making investment the main criteria of public policy legitimacy, it simultaneously delegitimizes spending that is not deemed an investment. Because the adopted economic definition of investment is limited to traditional “productive investment” related to industrial policy, other policy sectors—that is the majority of state intervention—are subject to spending cuts. Thus the Investor State suggests an evolution of the fiscal order that Streeck described as the “consolidation state”: the primary goal is no longer to reduce public debt and deficits. But the neoliberal objective to reduce the “size” of the public sector in the economy absolutely remains. Drawing on the case of France, the article shows how the right-wing government started placing investment at the core of its fiscal policy after 2008. The article then highlights the continuation of this dual fiscal policy discourse to date despite changes in government leadership and the pandemic crisis.
The Effect of a School Registered Nurse Intervention Program on Student Absenteeism
Authors: Stone Eva , Hampton Debra , Hager Kathy K.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the impact of targeted registered nurse (RN) activities in schools with high absenteeism rates. This study employed an interventional design gauging the effect of RN interventions on absenteeism in an urban elementary, middle, and high school. No significant change in overall missed days was noted; however, a significant decrease in absence rates for students with chronic health conditions was observed. Common themes for missed days included illness, bullying, and drama at school. Conclusion: RNs can help identify and manage chronic health conditions in school-age children to reduce absenteeism.
Effectiveness of Patiromer Versus Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate for the Management of Acute Hyperkalemia
Authors: Rydell Alison , Thackrey Corianne , Molki Maryam , Mullins Brandon P.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) are 2 oral potassium binders approved for chronic hyperkalemia. It is unknown if one is more effective at reducing serum potassium than the other in acute hyperkalemia.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine if there was a difference between patiromer and SZC in the reduction of serum potassium in patients with acute hyperkalemia.

Methods:

This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study. Patients with a nonhemolyzed serum potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L or greater and received at least one dose of patiromer or SZC were included. The primary outcome was to determine the difference in effectiveness between patiromer and SZC in lowering of serum potassium 6 to 24 hours after administration. Secondary outcomes included description of total dosage received in 24 hours and incidence of electrolyte changes.

Results:

A total of 200 patients were included in this study, with 100 patients in each group. Serum potassium was significantly reduced by both patiromer (−1.2 mEq/L, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −2.3 to −0.2) and SZC (−0.8 mEq/L, 95% CI: −1.0 to −0.7), but there was no difference between the 2 medications in the amount of potassium reduction ( P = 0.464). No clinically significant differences in electrolyte changes were seen.

Conclusions and Relevance:

This study represents the first head-to-head comparison of patiromer and SZC in the setting of acute hyperkalemia. No difference in effectiveness between patiromer and SZC in reducing serum potassium was seen. Both agents can be considered in acute hyperkalemia management.
Development of a Land Suitability Analysis Model for Slums Relocation: The Case of Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Nassar Eman , Elghazouly Hassan , Elnaggar Aly , Ayaad Samy
Published: November 2023

In recent decades, the adoption of geoinformation technologies has grown more crucial in determining the various characteristics that define the Earth’s environment. GIS tools have evolved significantly to planning for environmental and urban development. This research examined various geoprocessing approaches employed by the ArcGIS MODELBUILDER to decide whether a site is suitable for a slum relocation procedure. Three potential relocation sites for a slum in Cairo were examined using 12 different criteria. Five degrees of suitability have been included for sites assessment. Results were applied according to the score for each site and the final degree of suitability was recorded for decision support of slum relocation. Comparing the proposed sites, Site 3 showed the highest level of suitability for the relocation of slums, scoring 4.246 (84%), followed by sites 1 and 2 with scores of 3.99 (79.8%) and 3.43 (68.6%), after the weighted ratings for each element were determined.
A GAVeCeLT bundle for PICC-port insertion: The SIP-Port protocol
Authors: Brescia Fabrizio , Annetta Maria Giuseppina , Pinelli Fulvio , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: November 2023

In the last decade, a new type of brachial port has been introduced in clinical practice, the so-called “PICC-port.” This is a brachial port, but inserted according to the methodologies and technologies currently adopted for the insertion of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs). Several studies have shown that PICC-port insertion is safe, not associated with any relevant immediate or early complication, and that the expected incidence of late complications is significantly lower if compared to “traditional” brachial ports (i.e. inserted without ultrasound guidance). Furthermore, PICC-ports yield excellent esthetic results and are associated with optimal patient compliance. This paper describes an insertion bundle—developed by GAVeCeLT, the Italian Group of Long Term Venous Access Devices, and nicknamed “SIP-Port” (Safe Insertion of PICC-Ports)—which consists of few evidence-based strategies aiming to further minimize all immediate, early, or late complications potentially associated with PICC-port insertion. Also, this insertion bundle has been developed for the purpose of defining more closely the differences between a traditional brachial port and a PICC-port. The SIP-Port bundle is currently adopted by all training courses on PICC-port insertion held by GAVeCeLT. It includes eight steps: (1) preprocedural ultrasound assessment utilizing the RaPeVA (Rapid Peripheral Venous Assessment) protocol; (2) appropriate skin antiseptic technique and maximal barrier precautions; (3) choice of appropriate vein, in terms of caliber and site; (4) clear identification of the median nerve and of the brachial artery during the venipuncture; (5) ultrasound-guided puncture and cannulation of the vein; (6) ultrasound-guided tip navigation; (7) intra-procedural assessment of tip location by intracavitary ECG or by trans-thoracic echocardiography; (8) appropriate creation and closure of the subcutaneous pocket.
Parent perspectives of engaging with a community paediatric clinic with linked child development supports in a disadvantaged area of Ireland
Authors: Buckley Lynn , Harford Katherine , Gibson Louise , Cornally Nicola , Curtin Margaret
Published: November 2023

Parent experiences of child health services can be used to understand their value and optimise the support provision to families during critical developmental periods. A gap in the literature exists regarding parental perspectives of linked child development supports, particularly in disadvantaged areas. This study examined parent experiences of the impact and value of a community paediatric clinic (Kidscope) with linked, multi-agency supports in a disadvantaged area of Ireland. Using a qualitative analysis design, 10 parents participated in one-to-one interviews. A Community Advisory Group consulted on interview schedules. Data was thematically analysed in line with Braun & Clarke’s Framework. Five themes and twenty-two sub-themes emerged. Kidscope’s linked, multi-agency approach was valuable for engaging families, addressing developmental delay, supporting readiness for education, and developing parent–child relationships. Relational working and a child and family centred model of care empowered parents to become active agents in children’s health. Coronavirus disease 2019, national deficits in healthcare, and staff turnover impeded service delivery. Kidscope and linked supports work in partnership to disrupt the impact exclusion from healthcare has on vulnerable children and families. This study provides evidence of an effective integrated paediatric service delivery model designed around vulnerable children and families and highlights areas for improvement.
Dog-whistling and democracy
Authors: Tillyris Demetris
Published: November 2023

Despite our fascination with dog-whistling, neither dog-whistling itself, nor the relationship between dog-whistling and democracy are well understood. This article separates the content from the technique of dog-whistling and develops a more precise conceptualisation of that phenomenon in order to untangle the ambiguity about it. Dog-whistling, it argues, should not be reduced to racism or verbal communication tactics but can be combined with various different worldviews, and can encompass a multiplicity of verbal and non-verbal communicative means which surreptitiously nudge or wink at a specific subgroup. Contra the prevalent conviction that dog-whistling is antithetical to democracy in toto, the article suggests that some manifestations of that phenomenon constitute a ‘lesser vice’ vis-à-vis a politics of zealous candour, and an ineluctable feature of democratic politics. This recognition has important implications for democratic theory, and recent lamentations that ours is an age of moral crisis, marked by the rise of post-truth politics.
Design, analysis and validation of Customised Homocentric Fresnel Collector based on longest wavelength of visible spectrum
Authors: Kumar V , Bisht DS , Garg H
Published: November 2023

The paper presents the design of a Customised Homocentric Fresnel Collector (CHFC) based on the principle of superposition and the longest wavelength of the visible spectrum. A bottom-to-top approach is proposed that uses an individually designed homocentric prism based on visible light at a wavelength of 740 nm. The homocentric prism of the CHFC follows a uniform height method with varying pitch. An area focus is achieved on the plastic optical fibre (POF) bundle inlet without employing any secondary optical element. The CHFC achieves a uniform distribution of concentrated visible spectrum radiation from the Sun with a significant reduction in the hotspot problem. Comparison of the CHFC versus a mid-wavelength-based Fresnel lens shows that the CHFC delivers 9.24% more visible spectrum radiation on the POF bundle inlet. The simulated optical efficiency of the CHFC is 90.6%. Numerical analysis of a CHFC-based daylighting system shows that 331 lm (efficiency of 39.4%) can be delivered via a 10 m long fibre bundle made up of 32 POF each of 1 mm diameter. Experimental observations demonstrated that the maximum temperature recorded on the POF bundle entrance is 56.8°C during peak direct normal illuminance conditions. Note that the spectral distribution of the radiation emerging from the POF differs from the incident sunlight spectrum because of the transmission characteristics of the optical components used in the CHFC testbed.
Presidential Debates and Electoral Preferences in Weakly Institutionalised Democracies: Evidence From 32 Latin American Elections
Authors: Cantú Francisco , Carreras Miguel
Published: November 2023

Previous research has shown that presidential debates have “minimal effects” on aggregate electoral preferences because they mainly reinforce people's pre-existing political preferences. However, most of what we know about the behavioural effects of debates comes from research conducted in the United States and other institutionalised democracies. We re-evaluate the effects of debates on electoral preferences by focusing on Latin American elections. Given higher levels of electoral volatility, weaker partisan brands, lower partisanship, and more personalised voter linkages, we expect that debates play a significant role in shaping vote choice in Latin America. We test these expectations by conducting an analysis of presidential debates on aggregated vote preferences in thirty-two elections across fourteen Latin American countries from 2002 to 2019. Our results show that presidential debates shape electoral preferences in countries with weakly institutionalised party systems.
Co-designing Diabetes Care With Patients
Authors: Belko Sara , Hutchinson Morgan , Hayden Geoffrey , Pugliese Robert
Published: November 2023

More than 537 million adults worldwide are living with diabetes and navigating its health and lifestyle impact. People living with diabetes face unique challenges in managing their diet and exercise, monitoring their blood glucose, self-administering medications, and effectively integrating their disease into their social activities. In addition to diabetes being a challenging multifactorial disease, these challenges arise in part from patients having to navigate a complex ecosystem where sectors are siloed and its services, products, and environments are not designed with the patient in mind. To address these challenges, the ecosystem of diabetes care, including researchers, healthcare professionals, product and service developers, and policymakers, can adopt co-design methodologies providing patients and caregivers a seat at the table when creating solutions. Co-design in healthcare is an approach to problem-solving where patients are viewed as equal partners providing their own unique perspective and expertise, to design and develop devices, services, and environments. Co-design emphasizes the value of the user’s insights and expertise. Incorporating patient perspective has been shown to increase patient empowerment and satisfaction, enhance healthcare technology value, and strengthen the collaboration between the patient and their interprofessional ecosystem. We describe opportunity spaces, successful examples, and strategies to better engage patients in research, policymaking, and healthcare product, service, and environment development through co-design methods. By incorporating co-design, the ecosystem of diabetes care can deliver more effective, high-quality patient-centered care, products, and services.
The Sesquiterpene, Selin-11-en-4α-ol, from Artemisia vulgaris Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Responses in RAW264.7 Cells via MAPK and NF-κB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wei Ning , Dong Wanwen , Liu Tao , Guo Yuying , Liang Feng , You Yuejiao , Ye Cuifang , Wang Yifei , Wang Qiaoli , Wang Zhiping
Published: November 2023

Objective

Our study aimed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of selin-11-en-4α-ol purified from Artemisia vulgaris against anti-inflammation through network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vitro experiments.

Methods

Potential targets for selin-11-en-4α-ol and inflammation were obtained using Swiss Target Prediction, Pharm Mapper, and GeneCards databases. Venn diagrams were used to obtain the targets of selin-11-en-4α-ol for the treatment of inflammation, and the intersecting targets were uploaded to the STRING database to construct a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of selin-11-en-4α-ol anti-inflammatory target proteins for further screening of the core targets. The Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were conducted using the DAVID database. In addition, molecular docking validation of core target binding to selin-11-en-4α-ol was performed. The anti-inflammatory effects were verified by in vitro experiments of lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7 cells.

Results

PPI network analysis showed that mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), SRC, and HSP90AA1 were predicted as potential anti-inflammatory targets, and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that the MAPK signaling pathway presented the highest gene enrichment counts. Molecular docking and western blot results suggested that selin-11-en-4α-ol regulated MAPK and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways to alleviate inflammation. In addition, selin-11-en-4α-ol inhibited the production of inflammatory factors, chemokines, and reactive oxygen species and exhibited anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Conclusion

Selin-11-en-4α-ol treats inflammation by targeting the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway, demonstrating that network pharmacology and molecular docking are effective tools for studying traditional Chinese medicine and providing a theoretical basis for developing anti-inflammatory drugs.
A Brief Review of the Literature for Published Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry Protocols for Athletes
Authors: Dallman Johnathan , Herda Ashley , Cleary Christopher J. , Morey Tucker , Diederich Andrew , Vopat Bryan G. , Vopat Lisa M.
Published: November 2023

Context:

Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is widely known for its utility in diagnosing a patient with osteopenia or osteoporosis; however, its utility in evaluation of body composition and potential athletic performance was previously routinely overlooked. In recent years, athletic programs have begun employing this equipment during athlete screening. However, it is currently unknown how athletic programs are utilizing this information to guide an athlete’s training and health.

Objective:

To explore the literature to identify what is known regarding sports performance and athlete health based on body composition recordings.

Data Sources:

PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched for this brief review.

Study Selection:

A focus was placed on articles within the past 10 years that discussed DXA protocols within athletic populations; 14 articles were included in this brief literature review.

Study Design:

Brief literature review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Data Extraction:

One member of the research team searched the literature and retrieved articles with the purpose of analyzing and/or explaining DXA imaging in body composition analysis of active persons (primarily athletes).

Results:

Quality assurance scans with a phantom calibration block as well as athlete prescreening condition and activity standardization was routinely recommended. However, only 1 study reported a specific DXA protocol for athletes, and only 1 study described guidelines for how to report DXA results in athletic populations, suggesting it is plausible yet difficult due to the small changes detectable.

Conclusion:

Due to the limited literature as well as a lack of reference values for specific athletic populations, the authors of this review recommend using the current Nana et al ( Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2015;25:198-215) DXA protocol for performing DXA scans in the athletic population as well as current Hind et al ( J Clin Densitom 2018;21:429-443) guidelines for distributing the information.
Shared Group Memberships Mitigate Intergroup Bias in Cooperation
Authors: Uğurlar Pınar , Dorrough Angela R. , Isler Ozan , Yilmaz Onurcan
Published: November 2023

Research on cooperation between groups tends to consider a single social identity at a time. However, individuals naturally share group membership in one social category (e.g., religious belief) while diverging in membership to others (e.g., political ideology). Here, we test the effects of mixed-group membership on actual cooperative behavior relative to completely sharing (in-group) and completely diverging (out-group) group memberships. In three high-powered, preregistered, and incentivized experiments, we found evidence for our hypotheses that cooperation increases with the number of shared memberships in arbitrary (Experiment 1, N = 292) as well as naturally existing social categories such as political orientation and ethnicity (Experiment 2, N = 501) or political orientation and religious affiliation (Experiment 3, N = 292).
The platform discount: Addressing unpaid work as a structural feature of labour platforms
Authors: Mangan David , Muszyński Karol , Pulignano Valeria
Published: November 2023

Digital labour platforms are able to structure work to limit paid working time, extract fees from workers to access labour, and shift costs associated with occupational safety and health (OSH) compliance onto platform workers. We call this unpaid work the ‘platform discount’. Unpaid labour is embedded within platforms’ competitive strategies as platforms operate with labour oversupply while clients use multiple platforms to search for the cheapest option (multi-homing effect). The authors study pathways through law that would limit the incidence of unpaid work by revisiting three areas of the legal framework: working time, safety and health, and access to work/labour intermediation. The authors argue that reclassification, suggested, among others, by the draft Platform Work Directive, can reduce the platform discount for the misclassified workers, but will leave solo self-employed unprotected. The authors explore two possible strategies to reduce the platform discount for the solo self-employed working on labour platforms: 1) a broader understanding of the concept of working conditions on digital labour platforms covering both standard employees and solo self-employed; 2) proceeding area by area, with the extension of occupational safety and health to the solo self-employed on digital labour platforms being the most feasible and promising from a regulatory standpoint.
Primary care follow-up among children born with neonatal abstinence syndrome in a rural region in the United States
Authors: Sabu Stephiya , Hodges Abby , Buckman Cierra , Tumin Dmitry , Jamison Shaundreal
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Children born with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) have lower rates of preventive care utilization than children born without NAS, a pattern which is only partially explained by differences in social determinants of health (SDH). We sought to determine whether SDH and clinical characteristics were associated with well-child visit (WCV) attendance among children born with NAS in a rural academic health system.

Methods

Infants born at a single hospital in 2016–2018 were retrospectively included if they were diagnosed with non-iatrogenic NAS attributable to in utero opioid exposure and established care with an affiliated primary care clinic by 6 months of age. Healthcare utilization was tracked through the first 12 months of life. Independent variables included demographics, prenatal risk factors, insurance coverage, and SDH such as housing problems and food insecurity. Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) scores were extracted from the latest completed WCV during the first year of life.

Results

We identified 182 patients with NAS, of whom 80 established care with the primary care clinic, with a median of four WCVs (interquartile range: 2, 5) completed by 12 months of age. On unadjusted Poisson regression, none of the demographic, clinical, or SDH characteristics were associated with the number of completed WCVs. Among 44 patients with available ASQ data, the number of WCVs was not associated with ASQ scores at the latest WCV.

Conclusions

Within an academic rural health system, SDH and other infant or family characteristics did not predict WCV attendance among infants with NAS.
Continuous Vertical Inside-Out Versus Traditional Vertical Inside-Out Meniscal Repair: A Biomechanical Comparison
Authors: Rocha de Faria José Leonardo , Santos Arthur Paiva Grimaldi , Pavão Douglas Mello , Radulski Mariana , Leal Ana Carolina , More Ari Digiácomo Ocampo , Mozella Alan de Paula , Guimarães João Antonio Matheus , LaPrade Robert F , Roesler Carlos Rodrigo de Mello , Salim Rodrigo
Published: November 2023

Background:

Biomechanical assessment of meniscal repairs is essential for evaluating different meniscal suturing methods and techniques. The continuous meniscal suture technique is a newer method of meniscal repair that may have biomechanical differences compared with traditional techniques.

Purpose:

To evaluate the displacement, stiffness after cyclical loading, and load to failure for a continuous vertical inside-out meniscal suture versus a traditional vertical inside-out meniscal suture in a porcine medial meniscus.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 28 porcine knees were acquired and divided into 2 test groups of 14 medial meniscus each. A 2.0-cm longitudinal red-white zone cut was made in the body of the medial meniscus for each knee. The continuous suture (CS) group received 4 vertical stitches performed with a continuous vertical meniscal suture technique, and the inside-out suture (IO) group received a traditional vertical suture with 4 stitches. Two traction tapes were passed between the sutures and positioned in the biomechanical testing fixture device. Each specimen underwent load-to-failure testing at 5 mm/s, and displacement, system stiffness, and maximum load to failure were compared between the groups.

Results:

The displacement after the cyclic test was 0.53 ± 0.12 and 0.48 ± 0.07 mm for the CS and IO groups, respectively. There was no significant difference between the groups ( P = .2792). The stiffness at the ultimate load testing was 36.3 ± 1.9 and 35.3 ± 2.4 N/mm for groups CS and IO, respectively, with no significant difference between the groups ( P = .2557). In the load-to-failure test, the ultimate load was 218.2 ± 63.9 and 238.3 ± 71.3 N in the CS and IO groups, respectively, with no significant group differences ( P = .3062).

Conclusion:

A continuous vertical meniscal suture created a configuration for treating longitudinal meniscal lesions that was beneficial and biomechanically similar to a traditional vertical suture technique.

Clinical Relevance:

The study findings indicate that use of the continuous vertical inside-out meniscal suture technique is a possible therapeutic option.