bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning approach for the development of a crucial tool in suicide prevention: The Suicide Crisis Inventory-2 (SCI-2) Short Form
Authors: De Luca Gabriele P. , Parghi Neelang , El Hayek Rawad , Bloch-Elkouby Sarah , Peterkin Devon , Wolfe Amber , Rogers Megan L. , Galynker Igor
Published: May 2024

The Suicide Crisis Syndrome (SCS) describes a suicidal mental state marked by entrapment, affective disturbance, loss of cognitive control, hyperarousal, and social withdrawal that has predictive capacity for near-term suicidal behavior. The Suicide Crisis Inventory-2 (SCI-2), a reliable clinical tool that assesses SCS, lacks a short form for use in clinical settings which we sought to address with statistical analysis. To address this need, a community sample of 10,357 participants responded to an anonymous survey after which predictive performance for suicidal ideation (SI) and SI with preparatory behavior (SI-P) was measured using logistic regression, random forest, and gradient boosting algorithms. Four-fold cross-validation was used to split the dataset in 1,000 iterations. We compared rankings to the SCI–Short Form to inform the short form of the SCI-2. Logistic regression performed best in every analysis. The SI results were used to build the SCI-2-Short Form (SCI-2-SF) utilizing the two top ranking items from each SCS criterion. SHAP analysis of the SCI-2 resulted in meaningful rankings of its items. The SCI-2-SF, derived from these rankings, will be tested for predictive validity and utility in future studies.
Predicting drug–Protein interaction with deep learning framework for molecular graphs and sequences: Potential candidates against SAR-CoV-2
Authors: Du Weian , Zhao Liang , Wu Rong , Huang Boning , Liu Si , Liu Yufeng , Huang Huaiqiu , Shi Ge
Published: May 2024

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the COVID-19 disease, which represents a new life-threatening disaster. Regarding viral infection, many therapeutics have been investigated to alleviate the epidemiology such as vaccines and receptor decoys. However, the continuous mutating coronavirus, especially the variants of Delta and Omicron, are tended to invalidate the therapeutic biological product. Thus, it is necessary to develop molecular entities as broad-spectrum antiviral drugs. Coronavirus replication is controlled by the viral 3-chymotrypsin-like cysteine protease (3CLpro) enzyme, which is required for the virus’s life cycle. In the cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), 3CLpro has been shown to be a promising therapeutic development target. Here we proposed an attention-based deep learning framework for molecular graphs and sequences, training from the BindingDB 3CLpro dataset (114,555 compounds). After construction of such model, we conducted large-scale screening the in vivo/vitro dataset (276,003 compounds) from Zinc Database and visualize the candidate compounds with attention score. geometric-based affinity prediction was employed for validation. Finally, we established a 3CLpro-specific deep learning framework, namely GraphDPI-3CL (AUROC: 0.958) achieved superior performance beyond the existing state of the art model and discovered 10 molecules with a high binding affinity of 3CLpro and superior binding mode.
"Hearing the pupils’ voices through my own struggles”: A qualitative study of return to work among school counselors who are breast cancer survivors
Authors: Levkovich Inbar , Rosman Lahav , Signorelli Christina
Published: May 2024

For breast cancer survivors, returning to work is an important step for their personal, financial, and psycho-social recovery. Returning to work as a school counselor can be particularly challenging because of the demands of their job and stress at work. This qualitative study examines return to work among school counselors who are breast cancer survivors. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 survivors of breast cancer stages I–III between the ages of 32 and 55, and up to ten years after the completion of chemotherapy. Interviews focused on the discovery of the illness, treatment period, ramifications of the diagnosis on various aspects of life, and implications for work. Using thematic analysis of the data collected, analysis of the findings revealed three key themes: 1) “Everyone is replaceable”: The significance of disruptions in work continuity for school counselors who are breast cancer survivors. 2) "From Zero to a Hundred": Challenges Faced by Counselors in Returning to Work after Breast Cancer Recovery.3) “It’s hard to listen to counselees’ problems when I am immersed in my own crisis”: How surviving breast cancer affects return to work among school counselors. Findings highlight the unique needs of these counselors and the challenges they face upon returning to work. The study discusses recommendations for school principals including training, advocacy, and awareness to support survivors and improve their return to work.
Experimental research on the impact pressure of tidal bore fronts
Authors: Yue Shubo , Zeng Jian , Chen Yongping , Zhang Zhiyong , Xie Dongfeng
Published: May 2024

Tidal bore impact can be strong and destructive, placing estuarine infrastructures under great threat. However, there is a lack of research focusing on accurately estimating the impact pressure exerted by tidal bores. Herein new experiments were conducted to investigate the pressure of tidal bore fronts in a glass flume. Through analysis of instantaneous pressure of three forms of tidal bore, it was observed that the pressure fluctuation of weak and strong breaking bore fronts is characterized by impact pressure. The vertical distribution and maximum impact pressure of tidal bore were studied.The maximum impact pressure of breaking bore fronts appeared around 0.46 times height of it. The relationship between relative impact pressure and height of the tidal bore fronts was found to closely follow a normal probability density function. Through nonlinear regression analysis, an empirical equation was derived to calculate impact pressure, which was validated using observation data from the Qiantang River in China. This equation can be utilized to predict the impact pressure of tidal bore fronts and provide valuable support for estuarine engineering design.
Nutritional, molecular, and functional properties of a novel enzymatically hydrolyzed porcine plasma product
Authors: Solà-Ginés Marc , Miró Lluïsa , Bellver-Sanchis Aina , Griñán-Ferré Christian , Pallàs Mercè , Pérez-Bosque Anna , Moretó Miquel , Pont Laura , Benavente Fernando , Barbosa José , Rodríguez Carmen , Polo Javier
Published: May 2024

In the present study, an enzymatically hydrolyzed porcine plasma (EHPP) was nutritionally and molecularly characterized. EHPP molecular characterization showed, in contrast to spray-dried plasma (SDP), many peptides with relative molecular masses (Mr) below 8,000, constituting 73% of the protein relative abundance. IIAPPER, a well-known bioactive peptide with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, was identified. In vivo functionality of EHPP was tested in C. elegans and two different mouse models of intestinal inflammation. In C. elegans subjected to lipopolysaccharide exposure, EHPP displayed a substantial anti-inflammatory effect, enhancing survival and motility by 40% and 21.5%, respectively. Similarly, in mice challenged with Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B or Escherichia coli O42, EHPP and SDP supplementation (8%) increased body weight and average daily gain while reducing the percentage of regulatory Th lymphocytes. Furthermore, both products mitigated the increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines expression associated with these challenged mouse models. In contrast, some significant differences were observed in markers such as Il-6 and Tnf-α, suggesting that the products may present different action mechanisms. In conclusion, EHPP demonstrated similar beneficial health effects to SDP, potentially attributable to the immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity of its characteristic low Mr bioactive peptides.
Calibration of commercial fisheries echo sounders using seabed backscatter for the estimation of fishery resources
Authors: Zhu Yanhui , Kenji Minami , Tokeshi Tsutomu , Nishiyama Yoshihiro , Kasai Akinori , Matsuura Mitsuhiro , Horie Hikari , Miyashita Kazushi
Published: May 2024

Acoustic methods are often used for fisheries resource surveys to investigate fish stocks in a wide area. Commercial fisheries echo sounders, which are installed on most small fishing vessels, are used to record a large amount of data during fishing trips. Therefore, it can be used to collect the basic information necessary for stock assessment for a wide area and frequently. To carry out the quantification for the fisheries echo sounder, we devised a simple method using the backscattering strength of the seabed to perform calibration periodically and easily. In this study, seabed secondary reflections were used instead of primary reflection because the fisheries echo sounders were not equipped with a time-varied gain (TVG) function, and the primary backscattering strength of the seabed was saturated. It was also necessary to use standard values of seabed backscattering strength averaged over a certain area for calibration to eliminate some of the effects of differences in seabed sediment and vessel motions. By using standard values of the seabed secondary reflections, the fisheries echo sounder was calibrated accurately. Our study can provide a reliable framework to calibrate commercial fisheries echo sounders, to improve the estimation and management of fishery resources.
Lumbar spine MRI annotation with intervertebral disc height and Pfirrmann grade predictions
Authors: Natalia Friska , Sudirman Sud , Ruslim Daniel , Al-Kafri Ala
Published: May 2024

Many lumbar spine diseases are caused by defects or degeneration of lumbar intervertebral discs (IVD) and are usually diagnosed through inspection of the patient’s lumbar spine MRI. Efficient and accurate assessments of the lumbar spine are essential but a challenge due to the size of the clinical radiologist workforce not keeping pace with the demand for radiology services. In this paper, we present a methodology to automatically annotate lumbar spine IVDs with their height and degenerative state which is quantified using the Pfirrmann grading system. The method starts with semantic segmentation of a mid-sagittal MRI image into six distinct non-overlapping regions, including the IVD and vertebrae regions. Each IVD region is then located and assigned with its label. Using geometry, a line segment bisecting the IVD is determined and its Euclidean distance is used as the IVD height. We then extract an image feature, called self-similar color correlogram, from the nucleus of the IVD region as a representation of the region’s spatial pixel intensity distribution. We then use the IVD height data and machine learning classification process to predict the Pfirrmann grade of the IVD. We considered five different deep learning networks and six different machine learning algorithms in our experiment and found the ResNet-50 model and Ensemble of Decision Trees classifier to be the combination that gives the best results. When tested using a dataset containing 515 MRI studies, we achieved a mean accuracy of 88.1%.
Exploring trends and autonomy levels of adaptive business intelligence in healthcare: A systematic review
Authors: Lopes João , Faria Mariana , Santos Manuel Filipe
Published: May 2024

Objective

In order to comprehensively understand the characteristics of Adaptive Business Intelligence (ABI) in Healthcare, this study is structured to provide insights into the common features and evolving patterns within this domain. Applying the Sheridan’s Classification as a framework, we aim to assess the degree of autonomy exhibited by various ABI components. Together, these objectives will contribute to a deeper understanding of ABI implementation and its implications within the Healthcare context.

Methods

A comprehensive search of academic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies, selecting AIS e-library (AISel), Decision Support Systems Journal (DSSJ), Nature, The Lancet Digital Health (TLDH), PubMed, Expert Systems with Application (ESWA) and npj Digital Medicine as information sources. Studies from 2006 to 2022 were included based on predefined eligibility criteria. PRISMA statements were used to report this study.

Results

The outcomes showed that ABI systems present distinct levels of development, autonomy and practical deployment. The high levels of autonomy were essentially associated with predictive components. However, the possibility of completely autonomous decisions by these systems is totally excluded. Lower levels of autonomy are also observed, particularly in connection with prescriptive components, granting users responsibility in the generation of decisions.

Conclusion

The study presented emphasizes the vital connection between desired outcomes and the inherent autonomy of these solutions, highlighting the critical need for additional research on the consequences of ABI systems and their constituent elements. Organizations should deploy these systems in a way consistent with their objectives and values, while also being mindful of potential adverse effects. Providing valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to comprehend the diverse levels of ABI systems implementation, it contributes to well-informed decision-making in this dynamic field.
BACK-to-MOVE: Machine learning and computer vision model automating clinical classification of non-specific low back pain for personalised management
Authors: Hartley Thomas , Hicks Yulia , Davies Jennifer L. , Cazzola Dario , Sheeran Liba
Published: May 2024

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a major global disability contributor with profound health and socio-economic implications. The predominant form is non-specific LBP (NSLBP), lacking treatable pathology. Active physical interventions tailored to individual needs and capabilities are crucial for its management. However, the intricate nature of NSLBP and complexity of clinical classification systems necessitating extensive clinical training, hinder customised treatment access. Recent advancements in machine learning and computer vision demonstrate promise in characterising NSLBP altered movement patters through wearable sensors and optical motion capture. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a machine learning model (i.e., ’BACK-to-MOVE’) for NSLBP classification trained with expert clinical classification, spinal motion data from a standard video alongside patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

Methods

Synchronised video and three-dimensional (3D) motion data was collected during forward spinal flexion from 83 NSLBP patients. Two physiotherapists independently classified them as motor control impairment (MCI) or movement impairment (MI), with conflicts resolved by a third expert. The Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) architecture, HigherHRNet, was chosen for effective pose estimation from video data. The model was validated against 3D motion data (subset of 62) and trained on the freely available MS-COCO dataset for feature extraction. The Back-to-Move classifier underwent fine-tuning through feed-forward neural networks using labelled examples from the training dataset. Evaluation utilised 5-fold cross-validation to assess accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and F1 measure.

Results

Pose estimation’s Mean Square Error of 0.35 degrees against 3D motion data demonstrated strong criterion validity. Back-to-Move proficiently differentiated MI and MCI classes, yielding 93.98% accuracy, 96.49% sensitivity (MI detection), 88.46% specificity (MCI detection), and an F1 measure of .957. Incorporating PROMs curtailed classifier performance (accuracy: 68.67%, sensitivity: 91.23%, specificity: 18.52%, F1: .800).

Conclusion

This study is the first to demonstrate automated clinical classification of NSLBP using computer vision and machine learning with standard video data, achieving accuracy comparable to expert consensus. Automated classification of NSLBP based on altered movement patters video-recorded during routine clinical examination could expedite personalised NSLBP rehabilitation management, circumventing existing healthcare constraints. This advancement holds significant promise for patients and healthcare services alike.
Pap12-6: A host defense peptide with potent immunomodulatory activity in a chicken hepatic cell culture
Authors: Márton Rege Anna , Sebők Csilla , Mackei Máté , Tráj Patrik , Vörösházi Júlia , Kemény Ágnes , Neogrády Zsuzsanna , Mátis Gábor
Published: May 2024

In the fight against antimicrobial resistance, host defense peptides (HDPs) are increasingly referred to as promising molecules for the design of new antimicrobial agents. In terms of their future clinical use, particularly small, synthetic HDPs offer several advantages, based on which their application as feed additives has aroused great interest in the poultry sector. However, given their complex mechanism of action and the limited data about the cellular effects in production animals, their investigation is of great importance in these species. The present study aimed to examine the immunomodulatory activity of the synthetic HDP Pap12-6 (PAP) solely and in inflammatory environments evoked by lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C), in a primary chicken hepatocyte–non-parenchymal cell co-culture. Based on the investigation of the extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, PAP seemed to exert no cytotoxicity on hepatic cells, suggesting its safe application. Moreover, PAP was able to influence the immune response, reflected by the decreased production of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and “regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted”(RANTES), as well as the reduced IL-6/IL-10 ratio in Poly I:C-induced inflammation. PAP also diminished the levels of extracellular H2O2and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) when applied together with Poly I:C and in both inflammatory conditions, respectively. Consequently, PAP appeared to display potent immunomodulatory activity, preferring to act towards the cellular anti-inflammatory and antioxidant processes. These findings confirm that PAP might be a promising alternative for designing novel antimicrobial immunomodulatory agents for chickens, thereby contributing to the reduction of the use of conventional antibiotics.
Seed osmopriming with polyethylene glycol (PEG) enhances seed germination and seedling physiological traits of Coronilla varia L. under water stress
Authors: Ma Leyuan , Wei Jingui , Han Guojun , Sun Xiaomei , Yang Xiaobing
Published: May 2024

Water stress can adversely affect seed germination and plant growth. Seed osmopriming is a pre-sowing treatment in which seeds are soaked in osmotic solutions to undergo the first stage of germination prior to radicle protrusion. Seed osmopriming enhances germination performance under stressful environmental conditions, making it an effective method to improve plant resistance and yield. This study analyzed the effect of seed osmopriming with polyethylene glycol (PEG) on seed germination and physiological parameters of Coronilla varia L. Priming treatments using 10% to 30% PEG enhanced germination percentage, germination vigor, germination index, vitality index, and seedling mass and reduced the time to reach 50% germination (T50). The PEG concentration that led to better results was 10%. The content of soluble proteins (SP), proline (Pro), soluble sugars (SS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in Coronilla varia L. seedlings increased with the severity of water stress. In addition, under water stress, electrolyte leakage rose, and peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities intensified, while catalase (CAT) activity increased at mild-to-moderate water stress but declined with more severe deficiency. The 10% PEG priming significantly improved germination percentage, germination vigor, germination index, vitality index, and time to 50% germination (T50) under water stress. Across the water stress gradient here tested (8 to 12% PEG), seed priming enhanced SP content, Pro content, and SOD activity in Coronilla varia L. seedlings compared to the unprimed treatments. Under 10% PEG-induced water stress, primed seedlings displayed a significantly lower MDA content and electrolyte leakage than their unprimed counterparts and exhibited significantly higher CAT and POD activities. However, under 12% PEG-induced water stress, differences in electrolyte leakage, CAT activity, and POD activity between primed and unprimed treatments were not significant. These findings suggest that PEG priming enhances the osmotic regulation and antioxidant capacity of Coronilla varia seedlings, facilitating seed germination and seedling growth and alleviating drought stress damage, albeit with reduced efficacy under severe water deficiency.
Professional regulation in the digital era: A qualitative case study of three professions in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Leslie Kathleen , Myles Sophia , Alraja Abeer A. , Chiu Patrick , Schiller Catharine J. , Nelson Sioban , Adams Tracey L.
Published: May 2024

Technology is transforming service delivery and practice in many regulated professions, altering required skills, scopes of practice, and the organization of professional work. Professional regulators face considerable pressure to facilitate technology-enabled work while adapting to digital changes in their practices and procedures. However, our understanding of how regulators are responding to technology-driven risks and the impact of technology on regulatory policy is limited. To examine the impact of technology and digitalization on regulation, we conducted an exploratory case study of the regulatory bodies for nursing, law, and social work in Ontario, Canada. Data were collected over two phases. First, we collected documents from the regulators’ websites and regulatory consortiums. Second, we conducted key informant interviews with two representatives from each regulator. Data were thematically analyzed to explore the impact of technological change on regulatory activities and policies and to compare how regulatory structure and field shape this impact. Five themes were identified in our analysis: balancing efficiency potential with risks of certain technological advances; the potential for improving regulation through data analytics; considering how to regulate a technologically competent workforce; recalibrating pandemic emergency measures involving technology; and contemplating the future of technology on regulatory policy and practice. Regulators face ongoing challenges with providing equity-based approaches to regulating virtual practice, ensuring practitioners are technologically competent, and leveraging regulatory data to inform decision-making. Policymakers and regulators across Canada and internationally should prioritize risk-balanced policies, guidelines, and practice standards to support professional practice in the digital era.
UV-Vis quantification of the iron content in iteratively steam and HCl purified single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Martincic Markus , Tobías-Rossell Gerard
Published: May 2024

As-produced carbon nanotubes contain impurities which can dominate the properties of the material and are thus undesired. Herein we present a multi-step purification treatment that combines the use of steam and hydrochloric acid in an iterative manner. This allows the reduction of the iron content down to 0.2 wt. % in samples of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Remarkably, Raman spectroscopy analysis reveals that this purification strategy does not introduce structural defects into the SWCNTs’ backbone. To complete the study, we also report on a simplified approach for the quantitative assessment of iron using UV-Vis spectroscopy. The amount of metal in SWCNTs is assessed by dissolving in HCl the residue obtained after the complete combustion of the sample. This leads to the creation of hexaaquairon(III) chloride which allows the determination of the amount of iron, from the catalyst, by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The main advantage of the proposed strategy is that it does not require the use of additional complexing agents.
Association between clinical biomechanical metrics of cervical spine function and pain or disability in people with neuromusculoskeletal neck pain: Protocol for a systematic review and planned meta-analysis
Authors: Soltanabadi Saghar , Vatandoost Sima , Lukacs Michael J. , Rushton Alison , Walton David M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction/Background

Neck pain is a burdensome condition associated with pain, disability, and economic cost. Neck pain has been associated with observable changes in neuromuscular function and biomechanics. Prior research shows impairments in kinematic control, including reduced mobility, velocity, and smoothness of cervical motion. However, the strength of association between these impairments and patient-reported pain and disability is unclear rendering development of novel and relevant rehabilitation strategies difficult.

The aim of this systematic review is to synthesize existing evidence on the strength of association between clinical biomechanical metrics of neck function (ROM, strength, acceleration, accuracy, smoothness, etc.) and patient-reported neck pain and disability.

Methods/Analysis

This protocol follows Cochrane guidelines and adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P). MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science and Scopus will be searched, along with the gray literature, up to 20 November 2023, using terms and keywords derived from initial scoping searches. Observational studies, including cohorts and cross-sectional studies, that explore associations between clinical biomechanics of the neck and patient-reported outcomes of neck pain or disability will be included. Two reviewers will independently perform study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment (National Institute of Health tool). Data will be synthesized using either a random effects meta-analytic approach or qualitatively using a modified Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, dependent on the homogeneity of data available.

Discussion and relevance

This review addresses a gap in the literature by systematically synthesizing findings on the relationship between neck function impairments and patient-reported outcomes. It will identify priorities for neck pain rehabilitation and gaps in current knowledge.

Dissemination

The results of this review will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication, conference presentation, and lay language summaries posted on an open-access website.

Trial registration

PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42023417317. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023417317.
The fungicidal effectiveness of 2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline, a newly developed quinoxaline derivative, against Candida species
Authors: Alfadil Abdelbagi , Ibrahem Karem A. , Alrabia Mohammad W. , Mokhtar Jawahir A. , Ahmed Hafsa
Published: May 2024

Background

Candida represents a prevalent fungal infection, notable for its substantial implications on morbidity and mortality rates. In the landscape of prospective treatments, quinoxaline derivatives emerge as a category of compact compounds exhibiting notable potential in addressing infections. These derivatives showcase promising antimicrobial efficacy coupled with favorable pharmacokinetic and safety characteristics.

Aims

The central aim of this investigation was to examine the antifungal characteristics of 2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline against diverse strains of Candida and Aspergillus in vitro. Additionally, we endeavored to assess the in vivo efficacy of 2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline using a murine model for oral candidiasis induced by C. albicans cells ATCC 10231.

Results

2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline demonstrated noteworthy effectiveness when tested against various reference strains of Candida species. It exhibited heightened efficacy, particularly against Candida krusei isolates. However, its performance against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida auris isolates exhibited variability. Notably, 2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline manifests variable efficacy against Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus and Aspergillus flavus and no effect against Aspergillus brasiliensis. In a murine model, 2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline exhibited significant efficacy in combating the C. albicans cells ATCC 10231 strain, underscoring its potential as a viable treatment option.

Conclusion

2-Chloro-3-hydrazinylquinoxaline has demonstrated substantial potential in effectively addressing various Candida and Aspergillus species, showcasing dual attributes of antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. However, to attain a more comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic capabilities, further investigations, incorporating additional tests and experiments, are imperative.
Implementation of an innovative ERAS protocol in cardiac surgery: A qualitative evaluation from patients’ perspective
Authors: Schmid Mona Elisabeth , Stock Sina , Girdauskas Evaldas
Published: May 2024

Objective

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols aim to optimize the recovery process for patients after surgical interventions and focus on patient-centered care. In cardiac surgery, the ERAS concept is still in its early stages. Our university hospital has implemented an innovative ERAS protocol for minimally invasive heart valve surgery since 2021. Therefore, our study aimed to comprehensively assess the patient experience within this newly established ERAS protocol and focused on exploring and understanding the nuances of optimal healthcare delivery under the ERAS framework from the unique perspective of the patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Methods

Qualitative research was conducted using semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed using Kuckartz´s qualitative content analysis.

Results

The following main themes emerged from the 12 completed patient interviews: 1) information and communication flow, 2) perioperative patient care, and 3) rehabilitation. Patients found the pre-operative patient education and preconditioning very helpful. Patients were satisfied with the flow of information throughout the whole perioperative care process. Most patients expressed a need for more information about the course of surgery. The intensity of care provided by different professions was perceived as optimal. The support and inclusion of relatives in perioperative care were considered crucial. Patients appreciated the direct transfer to the rehabilitation and mainly were able to cope with daily life tasks afterward.

Conclusion

In summary, all patients experienced the ERAS protocol positively, and their healthcare process was well established. Active inclusion and education of patients in their treatment can improve patient empowerment. Two further aspects that deserve major consideration in the healthcare process are the inclusion of relatives and interprofessional cooperation.
Itaconic acid inhibits nontuberculous mycobacterial growth in pH dependent manner while 4-octyl-itaconic acid enhances THP-1 clearance of nontuberculous mycobacteria in vitro
Authors: Breen Paul , Zimbric Madsen , Caverly Lindsay J.
Published: May 2024

Increasingly prevalent, nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections affect approximately 20% of people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Previous studies of CF sputum identified lower levels of the host metabolite itaconate in those infected with NTM. Itaconate can inhibit the growth of M. tuberculosis (MTB) in vitro via the inhibition of the glyoxylate cycle enzyme (ICL), but its impact on NTM is unclear. To test itaconic acid’s (IA) effect on NTM growth, laboratory and CF clinical strains of Mycobacterium abscessus and Mycobacterium avium were cultured in 7H9 minimal media supplemented with 1–10 mM of IA and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). M. avium and M. abscessus grew when supplemented with SCFAs, whereas the addition of IA (≥ 10 mM) completely inhibited NTM growth. NTM supplemented with acetate or propionate and 5 mM IA displayed slower growth than NTM cultured with SCFA and ≤ 1 mM of IA. However, IA’s inhibition of NTM was pH dependent; as similar and higher quantities (100 mM) of pH adjusted IA (pH 7) did not inhibit growth in vitro, while in an acidic minimal media (pH 6.1), 1 to 5 mM of non-pH adjusted IA inhibited growth. None of the examined isolates displayed the ability to utilize IA as a carbon source, and IA added to M. abscessus isocitrate lyase (ICL) decreased enzymatic activity. Lastly, the addition of cell-permeable 4-octyl itaconate (4-OI) to THP-1 cells enhanced NTM clearance, demonstrating a potential role for IA/itaconate in host defense against NTM infections.
Extreme homes, extreme consumption? The American Dream in Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Authors: Borsuk Maria
Published: May 2024

This article examines the phenomenon of the commercialization of the American Dream through the example of consumerism around the realm of the suburban home, a key element of this concept in the United States, as well as the role of reality television in creating and encouraging inflated standards of consumption. It uses the example of the American television show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The article outlines the history and role of the American Dream, particularly the origins of the term itself, coined by Truslow Adams. The behaviour that Thorsten Veblen calls conspicuous consumption, which is characterized by a tendency to display material status in order to gain social respectability and prestige, is identified. The suburban house as a key element of the American Dream is analysed through the example of the makeovers presented in the programme. Their significant scale and unrealistic nature are often at odds with the real financial capabilities of the participants and are the cause of bankruptcies and financial problems. As the programme belongs to a genre that is supposed to reflect reality, in the light of the cultivation theory, created by George Gerbner, it influences viewers whose world-view is shaped by it and whose role models are imitated. Thus, the presented standards of a comfortable home in line with the American Dream can influence viewers’ consumption behaviour by showing them that the acquisition of possessions is a solution to problems, a reward for an honest life and that there are no financial consequences associated with them. The lavishness of the houses and their luxury reinforce this impression. Finally, the article seeks to answer the question to what extent and why the need of Americans to live up to the vision of living the illusive American Dream – thus creating an image of success and social status – is exaggerated and its standards are taken to an ‘extreme’.
Continuity: Inside the frame and behind the screen
Authors: d’Alessandro Marco
Published: May 2024

Since their appearance, digital comics have posed many challenges to the world of comic studies. Are they really comics? Should we talk about them as video games or interactive experiences? The questions are many, and they usually stumble on the – apparently – most important question: how can we define a comic? And how do we start analysing them? Scholars have multiplied paths and definitions, features and prototypes, trying to tame such a complex and ever-evolving object, with varying degrees of success. With this visual essay I will focus on – and concretely show – the aspect I believe is the most relevant: the structural relation between simultaneity and continuity, between global and local embedded in comics language. If, as Fresnault-Deruelle put it, ‘discontinuity is the basis of comics universe’, there will be necessarily some sort of continuum on which this discontinuity can emerge. Normally, this continuum is the white page itself, but with digital comics things get more complicated: the change in physical support calls for a big difference in affordances, new sensory modes make their way in, infinite spaces unfold and so on. Through an interdisciplinary approach and a dive in Peircean semiotics, I hereby suggest how the dialectic between continuity and discontinuity might be a good starting point, on a level of both formal and critical analysis, to tackle an object as chimeric as digital comics.
Webcomics as mediation
Authors: Wilde Lukas R. A.
Published: May 2024

This article focuses on Nadja Hermann’s uniquely inspiring webcomic Erzählmirnix (sometimes translated into English as ‘Emoticomix’), approaching it from a theory of mediation. In recent years, this perspective has been developed into a fine-grained model for the analytical application in comic studies. Applied alongside or complementary to narrative-focused as well as art-focused perspectives, a view on comics as mediation puts into focus the interrelations of communicative-semiotic, material-technological and conventional-institutional aspects of a comic’s production, distribution and reception. Erzählmirnix makes an excellent, intriguingly complicated test case, as it is at the same time incredibly influential in German-speaking countries while still being mostly neglected by research. ‘Mediation’ focuses on the distribution of agency between all the actors involved with (digital artefacts perceived as) comics: in a semiotic-communicative respect this refers to comic-specific ‘narrative instances’ (like narrators, perceived as distinct from authors or artists) as well as to affordances and limitations of genre traditions; in a material-technological respect it addresses the possibilities and constraints of platforms and material formats, while cultural-institutional perspectives take agency and conflicts distributed between countless personal, institutional or corporate actors into account. My article then discusses how the entangled agentic structures surrounding Hermann’s minimalistic graphics and ‘emoji’-pictures constantly bridge, undermine and negotiate distinctions between comics, cartoons, memes and actual social media commentary.
The Comic Book Western: New Perspectives on a Global Genre, Hristopher Conway and Antoinette Sol (eds) (2022)
Authors: Grady William
Published: May 2024

Review of: The Comic Book Western: New Perspectives on a Global Genre, Christopher Conway and Antoinette Sol (eds) (2022)

Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 328 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-49623-164-2, p/bk, USD 30
Historia ejemplarizantes del siglo XVII: Los Sanyan y las Novelas ejemplares
Authors: Yin Qianyun
Published: May 2024

El presente trabajo es un estudio comparativo entre los Sanyan de Feng Menglong y las Novelas ejemplares de Miguel de Cervantes, dos relevantes colecciones de novela corta publicadas en el siglo XVII, compuestas en contextos socioculturales muy diferentes. El objetivo del trabajo consiste en encontrar y analizar paralelismos temáticos, técnicos y conceptuales, entre dichos relatos ejemplarizantes, enmarcándolos en la literatura mundial. Dado que la literatura china y la literatura española se habían desarrollado de modo independiente, se ha elaborado la investigación desde la perspectiva del estudio de paralelismos o afinidades de la Literatura Comparada. Es un estudio supranacional, transcultural y comparativo que hace referencia a distintas tradiciones culturales y narrativas. La tesis consta de cuatro partes: En la parte primera, se presentan la biografía y la producción literaria de Feng Menglong y de Cervantes, considerando sus respectivos contextos sociohistóricos. Se realiza un recorrido de la evolución del concepto “novela” en la cultura china y la española, así como del desarrollo de la novela corta en ambos países, a fin de situar los Sanyan y las Novelas ejemplares en sus propias literaturas. La parte segunda se centra en los paralelismos temáticos y se presta particular atención a ciertos temas frecuentes y populares del género, como el amor, el matrimonio y los viajes. Se detallan diversas cuestiones sobre los argumentos paralelos hallados para comprender mejor la vida social, las costumbres y otras reflexiones de los autores sobre la sociedad. La parte tercera se enfoca en afinidades en el uso de técnicas y recursos narrativos en las novelas cortas de Feng Menglong y de Cervantes, indicando cómo las narraciones breves de China y de España en los siglos XVI y XVII comparten ciertos métodos para relatar una historia y satisfacer la demanda popular. La parte cuarta trata el enfoque clave de este estudio comparativo, la ejemplaridad de los Sanyan y de las Ejemplares, que es una de las características particulares de dichas novelas cortas. El estudio se basa en un análisis textual detenido, teniendo en cuenta las teorías relativas a la función de la literatura en ambas culturas. En virtud de la tendencia moralizante revelada en las narraciones y las palabras pronunciadas por ambos autores en los prólogos de las colecciones o en otras obras, la ejemplaridad de los Sanyan y de las Novelas ejemplares guarda relación con la moral y la finalidad educativa. Más aún, se observa un inesperado grado de tolerancia. Asimismo, este trabajo también sirve a modo de presentación detallada al mundo hispanohablante de los Sanyan y de Feng Menglong, una figura eminente de la literatura popular premoderna china. Se ha realizado una traducción de los prólogos y títulos de todas las novelas de los Sanyan al castellano.
Las relativas malsonantes del español. La combinación
Authors: Sánchez López Cristina
Published: May 2024

En español, algunos pronombres y adverbios relativos pueden ser modificados por un sustantivo interjectivo en oraciones de relativo libres en subjuntivo de interpretación inespecífica, como la que se subraya en Tiene que mantenerlo su papá, o los guerrillos, o a quien carajo le corresponda. En este trabajo se ofrecen datos que avalan la generalización anterior y se propone un análisis que da cuenta de las propiedades sintácticas y semánticas de estas relativas malsonantes o interjectivas. Se propone, en concreto, que la interjección es un modificador expresivo que hace explícita una actitud del hablante que consiste en considerarse incapaz de identificar la referencia de la relativa libre, lo que permite relacionar estas estructuras con las interrogativas malsonantes.
Ciencias del comportamiento, acicates (nudges) y lingüística conductual. La acción lingüística al servicio de una comunicación institucional clara
Authors: Polanco Martínez Fernando , Montolío Durán Estrella , García Asensio M.ª Ángeles
Published: May 2024

Clarificar el discurso público, hacerlo más simple (claro, fácil) y atractivo (accesible, persuasivo), contribuye a que la comunicación institucional cumpla mejor su cometido y tenga una mayor incidencia social. Para ello, resulta muy rentable en términos de eficacia comunicativa combinar los saberes de las disciplinas interesadas en el estudio del lenguaje en uso y la comunicación con los descubrimientos de las ciencias del comportamiento. En este trabajo queremos mostrar cómo la acción lingüística puede contribuir a que la comunicación de las instituciones públicas facilite que los ciudadanos entiendan los textos que les atañen y tomen decisiones que consideren adecuadas para su bienestar personal y el bienestar social.
Factors for the Success of Tourism Startups During the Pandemic
Authors: Santos Vitória , Violin Fabio
Published: May 2024

Due to the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, numerous sectors of the world economy were practically paralyzed, and tourism activity can be highlighted as one of the main ones. Given that, tourist attractions, equipment, services, and tourist infrastructure sought ways to overcome this moment of crisis. However, only a few were successful. Tourism organizations linked to digital environments, which sought to innovate in the market, faced greater challenges and eﬀectively dealt with the uncertainty environment created by Covid-19, were the ones that stood out the most. These companies that survive during a risky scenario, which have a technological base and a scalable, sustainable, and repeatable business model, are currently called Startups. Therefore, this study aims to analyze and identify the main critical factors for the success of tourism startups during the pandemic, using real examples of organizations that were successful in this period as the main basis for extracting information.
Los conceptos heideggerianos de “mundo” y “tierra” a la luz de la teoría de la representación de Louis Marin
Authors: Belgrano Mateo
Published: May 2024

En “El origen de la obra de arte” aparece por primera vez el concepto de tierra, junto al concepto de mundo. ¿Cómo comprender estos dos términos? En este trabajo me propongo explicar estos conceptos desde la teoría de la enunciación, más precisamente sirviéndonos como marco conceptual de la teoría de la representación del francés Louis Marin. No busco rastrear una posible influencia de Heidegger en Marin, sino más bien aplicar las nociones de transitividad y reflexividad (o transparencia y opacidad) para esclarecer el par de conceptos de mundo y tierra en “El origen de la obra de arte”.
Poscapitalismo: de la contrahegemonía a la liberación del conocimiento
Authors: Báquiro Sebastián Alberto
Published: May 2024

El estado del avance tecnológico actual permite pensar en formas en las que la humanidad podría tener una mejor vida, pero, por el contrario, las condiciones parecen ser peores cada día. Las propuestas de Nick Srnicek y Alex Williams, y de Franco Berardi, abordan el problema de superar la sujeción de la tecnología al neoliberalismo, para permitir un mejor vivir. Sin embargo, sus propuestas, contrahegemonía y liberación del conocimiento, se separan en la forma, entre un proyecto político y la morfogénesis producto de la comunidad.
Sobre el platonismo
Authors: Esquisabel Oscar
Published: May 2024

Carta sobre el platonismo, enviada por G.W. Leibniz a M.G. Hansch el 25 de julio de 1707.
Voces con propósito : manual de estrategias de comunicación para el desarrollo y el cambio social : módulo del facilitador
Authors: Vega Casanova Jair , Obregón Gálvez Rafael , Nieto Sánchez Claudia , Vargas Rosero Elizabeth , Pérez Quintero Camilo , Gathigi George W.
Published: May 2024

Voces con propósito: Manual de estrategias de Comunicación para el Desarrollo y el Cambio Social, aparte de ofrecer una ruta práctica de gran utilidad para las organizaciones de la sociedad civil, pone sobre la mesa una serie de temas que han dinamizado intensos debates en América Latina desde hace bastante tiempo, mismos que continúan como espacios abiertos en el siempre controversial proceso de construcción de una vida con dignidad, justicia y equilibrio para las sociedades de la región.