bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformation of Heritage into Assets for Income Enhancement: Access to Bank Credit for Vietnamese Community-based Tourism Homestays
Authors: Luan Do Xuan , Hai Tran Manh , An Duong Hoai , Thuy Pham Thai
Published: June 2022

The failure to transform heritage into assets is one of the main constraints for community-based tourism development. This article shows how access to bank credit contributes to income enhancement among ethnic minorities involving community-based tourism homestays. A multistage sampling technique and direct interviews using questionnaires were used to collect a rich dataset of a total 262 homestays in Northwestern Vietnam. To deal with model uncertainty, the approach of double-selection lasso logistic regression applied to Propensity Score Matching was used. Results show that credit recipients increased their total income level from US$180.11 to US$228.58 with an average of US$194.63 compared to non-recipients based on four different matching algorithms. The results suggest that the provision of bank credit should be expanded to enhance income for homestays. To facilitate homestay access to bank credit, stronger collaboration between homestays and travel agencies, better access to training and the adoption of a mobile-based banking platform by homestays are all needed. Smartphone-based credit services to homestays have the potential to reduce transaction costs of accessing credit for mountainous regions. Results imply that heritage can serve as productive assets via financial leverage.
Pontine and Cerebellar Development in Low-Birthweight Infants at Term-Equivalent Age
Authors: Hayakawa Katsumi , Tanda Koichi , Nishimura Akira , Kinoshita Daisuke , Nishimoto Masakazu , Yoshida Mariko , Kizaki Zenro , Ohno Koji
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

Pontine and cerebellar developments were investigated in low-birthweight (LBW) infants at term-equivalent age (TEA) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods and Materials:

The study subjects were a consecutive series of LBW infants born with a birthweight of <1,500 g. Among them, 51 neonates with an extremely low birthweight (ELBW) and 65 neonates with a very low birthweight (VLBW) infants underwent MRI exam at TEA. We measured the pontine anteroposterior diameter (APD), cerebellar vermian APD and height, and cerebellar transverse width using midline sagittal and axial T1 weighted images. Twenty term neonates with neonatal asphyxia showing a normal pattern and white matter injury on MRI exam served as a control group. Gender differences in these parameters were compared among the LBW groups.

Result:

Pontine APD in the ELBW group was significantly less than that in the control group. Cerebellar vermian APD and height were similar among the 3 groups. However, cerebellar transverse width was significantly less in the LBW groups than in the control group. A significant gender-related difference in pontine APD was evident, but cerebellar measurements showed no significant gender difference.

Conclusion:

LBW infants showed significantly developmental delay in terms of pontine APD and cerebellar width. A sex difference in pontine growth was evident among LBW infants.
‘Is hearing believing?’: A study of voices and beliefs in psychosis and trauma
Authors: Rajanthiran Leon , Curtis Guy , Ayalde Jeremiah , Orr Kenneth , Melvill-Smith Peter , Banerjee Amit , Schenk Meta , Wearne Deborah
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study compared voice characteristics and beliefs in participants diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with dissociation, schizophrenia (SCZ) and both diagnoses of SCZ and PTSD. The relationship between dissociation and voice beliefs was also assessed.

Method

We identified 56 participants meeting the diagnostic criteria for PTSD with dissociation, SCZ or both diagnoses (PTSD + SCZ) who also experienced auditory hallucinations. Measures included PTSD Symptoms Scales Interview (PSSI-5), Psychotic Symptoms Rating Scale (PSYRAT), Clinician Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS), Beliefs about Voices Questionnaire (BAVQ) and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS).

Results

Beliefs about voices were similar across diagnostic groups. Participants with SCZ were more likely to attribute their voices to an external origin, and participants with dual diagnosis were less able to control their voices. The PTSD-only group scored higher in dissociation scores than either the SCZ-only or dual diagnosis group. Malevolent voice appraisals correlated with dissociation scores only in the dual diagnosis group.

Conclusions

This research supports the hypothesis that voice beliefs are similar across diagnoses of PTSD and SCZ. However, differences in voice characteristics, emotional responses and relationship to dissociation may need to be considered in the psychological management of voices.
Canine urinary lactate and cortisol metabolites in hypercortisolism, nonadrenal disease, congestive heart failure, and health
Authors: Gal Arnon , Fries Ryan , Kadotani Saki , Ulanov Alexander V. , Li Zhong , Scott-Moncrieff J. Catharine , Burchell Richard K. , Lopez-Villalobos Nicolas , Petreanu Yigal
Published: June 2022

Spontaneous hypercortisolism (HC) is a common endocrine disease of senior dogs, often overlapping in selected clinical signs and hematologic and blood biochemical abnormalities with nonadrenal diseases (NADs). HC and NAD could differentially affect cortisol metabolism, which is a complex 10-enzymatic pathway process. HC might also affect blood and urine lactate levels through its effects on mitochondrial function. We aimed to differentiate between HC and NAD via a urinary cortisol metabolites and lactate panel. We prospectively recruited 7 healthy dogs and 18 dogs with HC, 15 with congestive heart failure (CHF), and 9 with NAD. We analyzed urine by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. We normalized urinary lactate and cortisol metabolites to urine creatinine concentration, and then compared groups using a linear-mixed model and principal component (PC) analysis. A machine-learning classification algorithm generated a decision tree (DT) model for predicting HC. The least-squares means of normalized urinary 6β-hydroxycortisol and PC1 of the HC and CHF groups were higher than those of the healthy and NAD groups ( p = 0.05). Creatinine-normalized urinary 6β-hydroxycortisol had better sensitivity (Se, 0.78; 95% CI: 0.55–0.91), specificity (Sp, 0.89; 95% CI: 0.57–0.99), and a likelihood ratio (LR; 7), than the Se (0.72; 95% CI: 0.49–0.88), Sp (0.89; 95% CI: 0.57–0.99), and LR (6.5) of PC1 for distinguishing HC from NAD. Lactate and dihydrocortisone had the highest decreasing node-weighted impurity value and were considered the most important features in the DT model; dihydrocortisol had no role in determining whether a dog had HC.
Levels of Care: A Scoping Review of Conceptualizations in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
Authors: Sarmiento Catalina , Reid Graham J.
Published: June 2022

The term level of care is utilized in mental health care to refer to the different ways in which treatment can be delivered, including qualitative (e.g., modality, approach, setting) and quantitative (e.g., number of sessions, frequency of sessions) variations in services. The concept is often embedded in models of care and measures, yet there is no agreed upon definition or understanding of what it encompasses. A scoping review of level of care conceptualizations in models of care, and triage and service use measures was conducted. Twenty-nine conceptualizations across 63 articles were identified, 12 focused on qualitative components, four on quantitative components, and 13 on a combination of qualitative and quantitative components. A conceptual model to integrate the literature reviewed is proposed.
DNA Damage and Repair in Migraine: Oxidative Stress and Beyond
Authors: Fila Michal , Jablkowska Aleksandra , Pawlowska Elzbieta , Blasiak Janusz
Published: June 2022

Energy generation in the brain to ameliorate energy deficit in migraine leads to oxidative stress as it is associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) that may damage DNA and show a pronociceptive action in meninges mediated by transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily A member 1 (TRPA1). Recent studies show high levels of single-strand breaks (SSBs) at specific sites in the genome of postmitotic neurons and point at SSB repair (SSBR) as an important element of homeostasis of the central nervous system. DNA topoisomerase 1 (TOP1) is stabilized in the DNA damage-inducing state by neuronal stimulation, including cortical spreading depression. Impairment in poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) and X-ray repair cross complementing 1 (XRCC1), key SSBR proteins, may be linked with migraine by transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2). TRPM2 may also mediate the involvement of migraine-related neuroinflammation with PARP-1 activated by oxidative stress–related SSBs. In conclusion, aberrant activity of SSBR evoked by compromised PARP-1 and XRCC1 may contribute to pathological phenomena in the migraine brain. Such aberrant SSBR results in the lack of repair or misrepair of SSBs induced by ROS or resulting from impaired TOP1. Therefore, components of SSBR may be considered a prospective druggable target in migraine.
Demodulated time-direction synchrosqueezing transform and its applications in mechanical fault diagnosis
Authors: Li Xiaolu , Xiao Baosen , Guo MingAng , Liu Baolin , Xia Jingbo , Tu Xiaotong
Published: June 2022

Time-frequency analysis is recognized as a dynamic tool to analyze the nonstationary signal. The synchrosqueezing transform is usually applied as a post-processing method to further improve the readability of the time-frequency representation. Synchrosqueezing transform is related to the reassignment method and can be performed in two directions, namely time direction and frequency direction. Frequency-direction reassignment helps to squeeze the slowly changing ridge. However, the time-direction reassignment is efficient to process the signal with rapid variation in instantaneous frequency. Thus, there exists a conflict in most of the time-frequency analysis methods while dealing with a signal containing both of these two components. In this study, a new method called demodulated time-direction synchrosqueezing transform is introduced, which is not only capable of achieving a higher compact TFR but also allow reconstructing the mode. In order to explain demodulated time-direction synchrosqueezing transform, a signal model is established in frequency domain. Then, a demodulated procedure is implemented to eliminate time-frequency analysis diffusion. Finally, time-direction reassignment is carried out to further enhance the energy concentration of the time-frequency analysis. The proposed demodulated time-direction synchrosqueezing transform method is evaluated by both simulation and experimental research. The results reveal that the performance of demodulated time-direction synchrosqueezing transform is better than the conventional time-frequency analysis methods, and it can be applied to the fault diagnosis in a machine.
Protein-Ligand Identification and In Vitro Inhibitory Effects of Cathine on 11 Major Human Drug Metabolizing Cytochrome P450s
Authors: Lim Sharoen Y. M. , Loo Jason Siau Ee , Alshagga Mustafa , Alshawsh Mohammed A. , Ong Chin E. , Pan Yan
Published: June 2022

Cathine is the stable form of cathinone, the major active compound found in khat ( Catha edulis Forsk) plant. Khat was found to inhibit major phase I drug metabolizing cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activities in vitro and in vivo. With the upsurge of khat consumption and the potential use of cathine to combat obesity, efforts should be channelled into understanding potential cathine-drug interactions, which have been rather limited. The present study aimed to assess CYPs activity and inhibition by cathine in a high-throughput in vitro fluorescence-based enzyme assay and molecular docking analysis to identify how cathine interacts within various CYPs’ active sites. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of cathine determined for CYP2A6 and CYP3A4 were 80 and 90 μM, while CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP2J2 and CYP3A5 showed no significant inhibition. Furthermore, in Ki analysis, the Lineweaver-Burk plots depicted non-competitive mixed inhibition of cathine on both CYP2A6 and CYP3A4 with Ki value of 63 and 100 μM, respectively. Cathine showed negligible time-dependent inhibition on CYPs. Further, molecular docking studies showed that cathine was bound to CYP2A6 via hydrophobic, hydrogen and π-stacking interactions and formed hydrophobic and hydrogen bonds with active site residues in CYP3A4. Both molecular docking prediction and in vitro outcome are in agreement, granting more detailed insights for predicting CYPs metabolism besides the possible cathine-drug interactions. Cathine-drug interactions may occur with concomitant consumption of khat or cathine-containing products with medications metabolized by CYP2A6 and CYP3A4.
Malignancies in Immunoglobulin G4-related ophthalmic disease
Authors: Lai Kenneth K.H. , Li Emmy Y.M. , Chan Regine Y.C. , Wong Kenneth C.W. , Yu Jimmy K.S. , Cheuk W. , Hui Y.H. , Cheng Andy C.O. , Chin Joyce K.Y. , Ip S. K. , Chan W. H. , Kwok Jeremy S.W. , Lam W. C. , Io Ida Y. F. , Mak Theresa S.T. , Li Kenneth K.W. , Lam N. M. , Yip Wilson W. K. , Young Alvin L. , Chan Edwin , Ko Callie K.L. , Ko Simon T. C. , Yuen Hunter K.L. , Tham Clement C.Y. , Pang Chi Pui , Chong Kelvin K.L.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Clinical phenotypes in Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) according to the patterns of affecting organs have different risks of malignancies. We attempt to determine the association of malignancies with IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Review of medical records, orbital images and histopathology reports in a territory-wide cohort of biopsy proven IgG4-ROD patients from 2005–2019.

Findings

Among 122 patients who had biopsies taken from adnexal lesions including lacrimal glands (n = 108), orbital mass (n = 30), infiltrated orbital fat (n = 10), conjunctiva (n = 2) or extraocular muscles (n = 3), 13% (16/122) developed malignancies over 73 ± 48months’ follow-up. There were 9 cases of ocular adnexal lymphoma (OAL) and 7 extra-orbital malignancies. Compared with the general population, the incidence of OAL was significantly higher (standardized incidence ratios, SIRs = 10.0, 95%CI = 4.5–17.6) while that of extra-orbital malignancies was similar. The SIRs was highest within the first year (SIR = 46.7, 95%CI = 18.5–87.6) when 7 OAL were concomitantly diagnosed. Patients who developed OAL or extra-orbital malignancies were older than other patients at IgG4-ROD diagnosis (64.9 ± 7.1, 68.3 ± 8.5 versus 55.2 ± 15.0 years, P < 0.05). Asymmetric lacrimal gland enlargement (78% versus 13%), lack of frontal (0% versus 12%) or infraorbital nerve enlargement (0% versus 36%) were associated with OAL (all P < 0.05). Pre-treatment serum IgG4 level or extra-orbital IgG4-RD involvement was similar among patients with or without malignancies.

Conclusion

In this biopsy-proven IgG4-ROD cohort, 7% developed OAL which was 10 times higher than the general population. Patients with asymmetric lacrimal gland enlargement or without trigeminal nerves involvement radiologically were associated with OAL.
Why Global North criminology fails to explain organized crime in Mexico
Authors: Pereda Valentin
Published: June 2022

The prevailing definitions of organized crime and methodological approaches to studying it derive mainly from the Global North. However, an emergent body of literature suggests that organized crime in the Global South differs from organized crime in the Global North. Focusing on the case of Mexico, I argue that mainstream criminological theories’ inability to explain significant aspects of organized crime in that country stems from their underspecified scope. Mainstream theories analyse organized crime as a phenomenon that transpires in societies characterized by high levels of internal peace, rule of law and strong public institutions. In Mexico, a country that fails to adhere to these conditions, organized crime manifestations defy prevailing theoretical assumptions.
User-centred iterative design of a smartwatch system supporting spontaneous reminiscence therapy for people living with dementia
Authors: Paay Jeni , Kjeldskov Jesper , Aaen Ivan , Bank Mette
Published: June 2022

Reminiscence therapy is beneficial for improving the quality of life for older adults living with dementia. However, it is difficult for caregivers in care homes to make this part of their daily practice because remembering a resident’s individual stories is difficult. Proximity-aware technologies can make rapid connections between residents, their histories, and nearby artefacts. Through a user-centred iterative design approach, we designed Memento, a prototype technology system that makes it easy and convenient for caregivers to connect residents with real stories from their past and engage them in meaningful conversations. Memento displays connections between a resident’s stories and their surroundings on a caregiver smartphone. Caregivers can then subtly use this information to start spontaneous reminiscences with residents, as they go about their everyday activities. Remembering their histories was highly enjoyable for residents, giving them a renewed sense of self-confidence and well-being.
High-speed broadband availability, Internet activity among older people, quality of life and loneliness
Authors: Mohan Gretta , Lyons Seán
Published: June 2022

Using data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), linked to administrative data on high-speed broadband availability from infrastructure maps, this study examines patterns of Internet uses and psychosocial outcomes for over 3500 people aged 50 plus across Ireland. High-speed broadband availability is associated with higher reported levels of home Internet access, greater frequency of Internet use and more engagement with Internet activities. Controlling for demographic and socio-economic circumstances, regression models show that quality of life is higher among daily users of the Internet. Little association is found with loneliness. Quality of life is higher among users of Internet-based communication applications such as email and video calls, and there is some evidence that loneliness may be less pronounced among users of these applications. The findings are consistent with the view that digital engagement can enhance the lives of older people and thus may be supportive of policies and interventions to address potential ‘grey’ digital divides.
The balancing act of corporate political activity under institutional pressure
Authors: Lim Jaegoo
Published: June 2022

Business firms engage in the public policy process to manage the influences of state and public policy. Many stakeholders in society voice concerns about the excessive influence of firms, which creates complex conditions for using corporate political activity. This study addresses the question of how institutional pressures influence corporate use of political strategy. I propose that institutional pressures will moderate the effects of strategic factors on corporate political activity, as corporations try to make the strategic balance between strategic needs and institutional pressures. The findings of this study show that corporations engaged in corporate political activity were less active when there were direct pressures on corporate political activity, such as proxy voting proposals by activist shareholders and media coverage of their political activity.
Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Design a Patient and Practitioner-Centered Group Prenatal Care Model
Authors: Lessard Lauren , Oberholtzer Christy , Shaver Amber , Newel Gail , Middleton Ellen , Kuppermann Miriam , Fuchs Jonathan , Garza Mary A. , Rand Larry , Capitman John
Published: June 2022

In response to disproportionately high rates of infant mortality and preterm birth among women of color and women in poverty in Fresno County, California, community and academic partners coordinated a community-based participatory research (CBPR) project with local residents. Social isolation and stress, inaccessible prenatal care, and dissatisfaction with care experiences were identified as leading predictors of poor birth outcomes. The PRECEDE-PROCEED framework was used to lead the CBPR effort that resulted in the development of a model of group prenatal care, named Glow! Group Prenatal Care Program (Glow! Program). Group prenatal care (GPNC), which focuses on pregnancy health assessments, education, and peer support, has the potential to address the health and social priorities of women during pregnancy. As a result of the employed CBPR process and the extensive participation from stakeholders, this modified GPNC model responds to the unique needs of the at-risk community members, the agencies aiming to improve maternal-child health experiences and outcomes, and the prenatal care providers offering it to their patients. The methods from this study can be applied in the design and implementation of community-based health care interventions. Returning to community partners throughout the design, implementation, and evaluation phases underscored that health care interventions cannot be designed in silos, and require flexibility to respond to factors that promote improved maternal and infant outcomes, which affect the end goal for the intervention.
From Challenge to Opportunity: Virtual Qualitative Research During COVID-19 and Beyond
Authors: Keen Sam , Lomeli-Rodriguez Martha , Joffe Helene
Published: June 2022

COVID-19 has required researchers to adapt methodologies for remote data collection. While virtual interviewing has traditionally received limited attention in the qualitative literature, recent adaptations to the pandemic have prompted increased discussion and adoption. Yet, current discussion has focussed on practical and ethical concerns and retained a tone of compromise, of coping in a crisis. This paper extends the nascent conversations begun prior to the pandemic to consider the wider methodological implications of video-call interviews. Beyond the short-term, practical challenges of the pandemic, these adaptations demonstrate scope for longer-term, beneficial digitalisation of both traditional and emergent interview methods. Updating traditional interview methods digitally has demonstrated how conversion to video interviewing proves beneficial in its own right. Virtual focus-group-based research during COVID-19, for example, accessed marginalised populations and elicited notable rapport and rich data, uniting people in synchronous conversation across many environments. Moreover, emergent interview methods such as the Grid Elaboration Method (a specialised free-associative method) demonstrated further digitalised enhancements, including effective online recruitment with flexible scheduling, virtual interactions with significant rapport, and valuable recording and transcription functions. This paper looks beyond the pandemic to future research contexts where such forms of virtual interviewing may confer unique advantages: supporting researcher and participant populations with mobility challenges; enhancing international research where researcher presence or travel may be problematic. When opportunities for traditional face-to-face methods return, the opportunity for virtual innovation should not be overlooked.
Association of vitamin D deficiency and inflammatory cytokines with the clinicopathological features of breast cancer in female Saudi patients
Authors: Gharib Amal F , El Askary Ahmad , Almehmadi Mazen , Alhuthali Hayaa M , Elsawy Wael H , Allam Hatem H , Elsayyad Lamiaa K , Ayoub Manal Ali , Shafie Alaa
Published: June 2022

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Saudi Arabia. Many studies have suggested a strong correlation between vitamin D and multiple types of cancer. This study included 100 female Saudi patients with early or locally advanced breast cancer. Patients were recruited from King Faisal Hospital in Taif City, Saudi Arabia, from January 2020 to September 2020. We aimed to study the association between serum vitamin D, calcium, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and chemerin and breast cancer progression. The control group consisted of 100 healthy individuals. Serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, IL-6, TNF-α and chemerin were measured in all participants. Vitamin D was significantly decreased in patients with high-grade tumours ( p < 0.0001), obesity ( p = 0.013), negative oestrogen receptors ( p < 0.0001), negative progesterone receptors ( p < 0.0001) and positive HER2 receptors ( p < 0.0001). Vitamin D was also decreased in patients with large tumours ( p < 0.0001), axillary lymph node involvement ( p < 0.0001) and advanced-stage cancers ( p < 0.0001). Moreover, higher levels of IL-6, TNF-α and chemerin were significantly associated with the presence of breast cancer, particularly in its advanced stages. Vitamin D deficiency and elevated levels of IL-6, TNF- α and chemerin were associated with adverse clinicopathological features of breast cancer. Vitamin D deficiency and elevated inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and chemerin) were associated with the clinicopathological features of breast cancer in female Saudi patients.
Navigating the care of families with a child or children with autistic spectrum disorder
Authors: Harvey Professor Clare , Willis Emeritus Professor Eileen , Brown Dr Janie , Byrne Amy-Louise , Baldwin Associate Professor Adele , Heard David , Augutis Wendy
Published: June 2022

The aim of this project was to better understand nurse navigators work with children and families who are living with severe autism spectrum disorder to achieve improved health and wellbeing outcomes. Nurse navigators were introduced into the public health sector in Queensland in 2016, with 400 navigators currently working across 16 health services in diverse geographic and demographic settings. Narrative inquiry was used to explore one nurse navigator’s journey working with children and families living with severe Autism. The challenges of rigid health systems to adapt to the requirements of children with special needs, particularly in relation to care in the emergency department and where interventional procedures are necessary were apparent. Nurse navigators can effectively co-ordinate the care of an extremely vulnerable patient cohort and provide essential advocacy in a health system that is rigid and lacking the flexibility to deal with individual needs.
Reliability and convergence of approach/avoidance bias assessment tasks in the food consumption domain
Authors: Basanovic Julian , Dondzilo Laura , Rudaizky Daniel , Van Bockstaele Bram
Published: June 2022

Theories of motivation posit that people will more readily approach positive or appetitive stimuli, and there has been growing interest in the relationship between biases in approach and avoidance behaviours for food cues and food craving and consumption behaviour. Two paradigms commonly employed by research to investigate this relationship are the approach-avoidance task (AAT) and the stimulus-response compatibility task (SRCT). However, it is yet to be determined whether the measures yielded by these tasks reflect the same processes operating in the food craving and consumption domain. The present study examined the internal reliability and convergence of AAT and SRCT paradigms in their assessment of biased approach to unhealthy compared with healthy food stimuli, and whether the measures yielded by the AAT and SRCT paradigms demonstrated associations with individual differences in food craving and eating behaviour. One hundred twenty-one participants completed an SRCT, an AAT using an arm movement response mode, and an AAT using a key-press response mode. The measures yielded comparable and acceptable levels of internal consistency, but convergence between the different task bias scores was modest or absent, and only approach bias as measured with the AAT task using an arm movement response mode was associated with self-report measures of eating behaviour and trait food craving. Thus, tasks did not converge strongly enough to be considered equivalent measures of approach/avoidance biases, and the AAT task using an arm movement response seems uniquely suited to detect approach biases argued to characterise maladaptive eating behaviour and craving.
Low estimated glomerular filtration rate explains the association between hyperhomocysteinemia and in-hospital mortality among patients with ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack or intracerebral hemorrhage: Results from the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance
Authors: Liu Wei , Ma Xue-Lian , Gu Hong-Qiu , Li Hao , Li Zi-Xiao , Wang Yong-Jun
Published: June 2022

Objectives:

To investigate the association between hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and in-hospital mortality following ischemic stroke (IS), transient ischemic attack (TIA), or intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods:

Data on patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease (IS/TIA) or ICH enrolled in the Chinese Stroke Center Alliance (CSCA) from 2015 to 2019 were extracted. Patient characteristics and in-hospital mortality were analyzed and multiple adjusted logistic regression analyses performed to investigate the association between blood tHcy (total homocysteine) and in-hospital mortality in patients with HHcy (tHcy ⩾ 15 µmol) and patients with normohomocysteinemia (nHcy) (tHcy < 15 µmol).

Results:

A total of 823,622 participants were included. Mean (SD) age was 65.9 (12.1), and 62.5% (n = 514,888) were male. A total of 379,807 (46.0%) patients were identified as having HHcy, and 70,364 (8.5%) patients had an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. An eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was the strongest independent risk factor for HHcy in both patients with IS/TIA (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.67, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.49–2.86), and those with ICH (2.94, 2.46–3.50). On multivariable logistic regression, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, HHcy was associated with in-hospital mortality (aOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.13–1.37 for patients with IS/TIA; aOR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.12–1.76 for patients with ICH). However, after additionally adjusting for eGFR, this association disappeared among patients with both IS/TIA (aOR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.99–1.20) and those with ICH (aOR: 1.17, 9% CI: 0.96–1.43).

Conclusion:

HHcy was associated with in-hospital mortality among the patients with IS/TIA or ICH but this association disappeared after controlling for eGFR, suggesting HHcy was acting as a marker of poor renal function which itself was the predictor of poor outcome. Our results suggest the prevention and management of renal impairment may be an important measure in the reduction of mortality in patients with HHcy after IS/TIA or ICH.
Evolution of anthropometric and physical performance characteristics of international male cricketers from 2014 to 2020 in a World Cup winning nation
Authors: Scott P , Ahmun R , de Weymarn C , Gardner E , Bliss A , Jones T W , Callaghan S J , Tallent J
Published: June 2022

The aim of the study was to firstly present a comprehensive physical profile of international cricketers in a World Cup winning cricket nation. Secondly, to describe changes in physical profiles across seven years. Fifty-two senior international cricketers’ physical profiles were retrospectively analysed across seven years. Using linear mixed-modelling, changes in stature, body mass, sum-of-8 skinfolds, sprinting time (10 and 40 m), run-2 time, counter movement jump (CMJ), push and pull strength capacity and the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level-1 (Yo-Yo-IR1) were analysed during a seven-year period. There were no significant changes in body mass ( p = .63) or stature ( p = .99) during this time. However, there was a significant ( p < .001) mean decrease of ∼14 mm in the sum-of-8 skinfolds. Distance covered in the Yo-Yo-IR1 also showed a significant ( p = .002) effect of years, with a mean increase of 459 m in 2017 when compared with 2014. A significantly ( p = .01) more balanced push-to-pull strength capacity ratio was also evident across years as a result of a significant ( p < .001) increase in pull strength capacity. Significant ( p < .05) fluctuations in CMJ, sprint and run-2 time were seen, with no obvious trends. International cricketers within our study have gone through a notable physical transformation that has likely resulted in an increase in lean mass and aerobic capacity. The change across time to a more balanced push-to-pull strength capacity may be beneficial for injury prevention.
‘Devastating, like it broke me’: Responding to image-based sexual abuse in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Henry Nicola , Gavey Nicola , McGlynn Clare , Rackley Erika
Published: June 2022

The non-consensual taking or sharing of intimate images, also known as ‘image-based sexual abuse’, has become a widespread problem. While there has been growing attention to this phenomenon, little empirical research has investigated victim-survivor experiences. Drawing on interviews with 25 victim-survivors, this article focusses on the different responses to image-based sexual abuse in Aotearoa New Zealand. We found that victim-survivors had diverse and often multiple experiences of image-based sexual abuse, perpetrated for a variety of reasons, which extended beyond the paradigm of malicious ex-partners seeking revenge. Some participants described the harms experienced as ‘devastating’: a form of ‘social rupture’. Few had formally reported to police or pursued other justice options. While participants held different justice ideals, all sought recognition of the harms perpetrated against them. Yet they faced multiple obstacles when navigating justice, redress and support options. The authors conclude that far-reaching change is needed to improve legislative, policy and prevention responses to image-based sexual abuse.
Shaping the migrant: Semantic strategies to portray inward and outward migrants as social actors in the Arab press
Authors: Ammar Marco , Murgia Pamela
Published: June 2022

The present work proposes to explore the discourse on migration in Arabic language media outlets. Present scientific literature in discourse analysis studies consistently analyzed discourses on migration and displayed the consistency of its features. In this paper, we will analyze how the Arabic discourse on migration in the Mediterranean area, either inbound or outbound, are realized and if they are shaped by the European discourse (mediatic, political, institutional), in order to add an Arabic language contribution to the scientific discussion. The research showed that, while most established categories typical of discourses of racism were present, others were put into discussion, and a context-bound system of representation emerged, with its specificities concerning the reality of migration into and from Arabic countries. However, the European discourse resulted a strong presence, even in the representation of outbound migration of the specific ingroup.
Neural Networks With Gated Recurrent Units Reduce Glucose Forecasting Error Due to Changes in Sensor Location
Authors: Tucker Aaron P. , Erdman Arthur G. , Schreiner Pamela J. , Ma Sisi , Chow Lisa S.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have become important tools for providing estimates of glucose to patients with diabetes. Recently, neural networks (NNs) have become a common method for forecasting glucose values using data from CGMs. One method of forecasting glucose values is a time-delay feedforward (FF) NN, but a change in the CGM location on a participant can increase forecast error in a FF NN.

Methods:

In response, we examined a NN with gated recurrent units (GRUs) as a method of reducing forecast error due to changes in sensor location.

Results:

We observed that for 13 participants with type 2 diabetes wearing blinded CGMs on both arms for 12 weeks (FreeStyle Libre Pro—Abbott), GRU NNs did not produce significantly different errors in glucose prediction due to sensor location changes ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

We observe that GRU NNs can mitigate error in glucose prediction due to differences in CGM location.
Personalized Offloading Treatments for Healing Plantar Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Jarl Gustav , Rusaw David F. , Terrill Alexander J. , Barnett Cleveland T. , Woodruff Maria A. , Lazzarini Peter A.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Non-removable knee-high devices are the gold-standard offloading treatments to heal plantar diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). These devices are underused in practice for a variety of reasons. Recommending these devices for all patients, regardless of their circumstances and preferences influencing their ability to tolerate the devices, does not seem a fruitful approach.

Purpose:

The aim of this article is to explore the potential implications of a more personalized approach to offloading DFUs and suggest avenues for future research and development.

Methods:

Non-removable knee-high devices effectively heal plantar DFUs by reducing plantar pressure and shear at the DFU, reducing weight-bearing activity and enforcing high adherence. We propose that future offloading devices should be developed that aim to optimize these mechanisms according to each individual’s needs. We suggest three different approaches may be developed to achieve such personalized offloading treatment. First, we suggest modular devices, where different mechanical features (rocker-bottom sole, knee-high cast walls/struts, etc.) can be added or removed from the device to accommodate different patients’ needs and the evolving needs of the patient throughout the treatment period. Second, advanced manufacturing techniques and novel materials could be used to personalize the design of their devices, thereby improving common hindrances to their use, such as devices being heavy, bulky, and hot. Third, sensors could be used to provide real-time feedback to patients and clinicians on plantar pressures, shear, weight-bearing activity, and adherence.

Conclusions:

By the use of these approaches, we could provide patients with personalized devices to optimize plantar tissue stress, thereby improving clinical outcomes.
Engaging Members of a Northern Plains Indian Reservation to Promote Community Responsive Health Care
Authors: Alexander-Ruff Julie H. , Hodgson Christine R.
Published: June 2022

This article describes a project to engage community members and to determine how a school nurse–community partnership could improve healthcare equity within an American Indian community. The purpose of this community-building project was to establish a relationship among school nurse practitioners, children, and their community in a Northern Plains Indian reservation using a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) model. CBPR requires a partnership between community members and school nurses in prioritizing community needs, developing an appropriate intervention, and engaging the community throughout the intervention project process. Partnering with teachers and the community, we engaged 78 students in a year-long project in which children depicted their perceptions of well-being and wellness through bimonthly art activities. This project laid the groundwork for a strong community partnership with school nurses in addressing the well-being of children and the further exploration of community needs.
School Counselor Perceptions and Knowledge of Trauma-Informed Practices
Authors: Wells Tommy
Published: June 2022

This study explored school counselors’ perceptions and knowledge of trauma-informed practices, self-efficacy in promoting these practices, and the extent to which school counseling programs provided relevant training. A majority of participants believed they were not sufficiently prepared in their school counseling programs. The culturally responsive, trauma-informed educator identity framework outlines knowledge and skills needed to promote trauma-informed practices, such as the need for ongoing self-reflection. I discuss implications for school counselors and school counseling programs.
Competing as the First Out Transgender Female Olympian: A Twitter Network Analysis of Laurel Hubbard During the 2020 Tokyo Games
Authors: Xu Qingru
Published: June 2022

This study examines the Twitter network discussing the inclusion of Laurel Hubbard, the first out trans woman Olympian, during the 2020 Tokyo Games. By analyzing the Twitter reactions, top opinion leaders, and the modularity of the network, this study uncovers that (a) the majority of the top 10 most-liked tweets and the top influential social actors hold a negative attitude toward Laurel Hubbard’s participation in the women’s category; (b) compared to traditional news agencies, social media influencers and newly launched digital media agencies play a more important role in facilitating the flow of information in this network; and (c) the observed Twitter network is highly clustered, indicating that individuals tend to interact with people more frequently within their segregated subgroup, whereas information diffusion across clusters is more restricted. This research contributes to the understanding of how Twitter users perceive the inclusion of trans athletes at international sporting events by empirically exploring the Twitter network of Laurel Hubbard, the first out trans female athlete in Olympic history.
Broadened Possibilities: Undocumented Community College Student Course Enrollment After the California DREAM Act
Authors: Ngo Federick , Hinojosa Juanita K.
Published: June 2022

Some states have enacted inclusive policies that reduce constraints and uncertainty for undocumented students, potentially changing their academic decisions and postsecondary goals. We explore shifts in continuing undocumented community college students’ course-taking before and after the California DREAM Act, which provided access to state financial aid. We use difference-in-differences comparisons with permanent residents, refugees, and U.S. citizens who were unaffected by these policies to examine policy impacts. After its implementation, continuing students increased their enrollment intensity, primarily in degree-applicable and transferable courses, and decreased coursework in career/technical education. This suggests state financial aid may have broadened postsecondary possibilities and made transfer to a 4-year institution a more viable option for undocumented students. At the same time, access to aid did not increase undocumented students’ credit loads to the level of their peers, underscoring the reality that other constraints continue to shape undocumented students’ participation in higher education.
Mothers’ Perspectives on a Mother/Infant Dyad Postpartum Primary Care Program Following Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Qualitative Pilot Study
Authors: Brown Jordyn A. , Leonard Melissa , Clinton Tiffany , Bower Julie K. , Gillespie Shannon L. , Fareed Naleef , Thomas Nikki , Prater Laura , Lorenz Allison , May Sara , Voisin Christiane , Thung Stephen , Oza-Frank Reena , Bose Brill Seuli
Published: June 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to characterize mothers’ experiences within a mother/infant dyad postpartum primary care program (Dyad) following gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) to inform improvements in the delivery of care.

Methods:

A qualitative pilot study of women (n = 10) enrolled in a mother/infant Dyad program was conducted in a primary care practice at a large, urban academic medical center. Respondents were asked a series of open-ended questions about their experience with GDM, the Dyad program, and health behaviors. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using ground theory with NVivo 12 Plus software.

Results:

Three key themes emerged: (1) Dyad program experience, (2) implementation of health behavior changes, and (3) acknowledgment of future GDM and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) health risks. Respondents felt that the program conveniently served mother and infant health care needs in a single appointment. Respondents also valued support from primary care providers when implementing health behavior changes. The Dyad program provided an opportunity for respondents to understand their current and future risk for developing GDM and T2DM.

Conclusions:

Postpartum women enrolled in the Dyad program received highly personalized primary care services. The results of our study will help integrate patient-centered strategies into models for GDM care to maintain patient engagement in postpartum clinical services.
Linked-read whole-genome sequencing resolves common and private structural variants in multiple myeloma
Authors: Peña-Pérez Lucía , Frengen Nicolai , Hauenstein Julia , Gran Charlotte , Gustafsson Charlotte , Eisfeldt Jesper , Kierczak Marcin , Taborsak-Lines Fanny , Olsen Remi-André , Wallblom Ann , Krstic Aleksandra , Ewels Philip , Lindstrand Anna , Månsson Robert
Published: June 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable and aggressive plasma cell malignancy characterized by a complex karyotype with multiple structural variants (SVs) and copy-number variations (CNVs). Linked-read whole-genome sequencing (lrWGS) allows for refined detection and reconstruction of SVs by providing long-range genetic information from standard short-read sequencing. This makes lrWGS an attractive solution for capturing the full genomic complexity of MM. Here we show that high-quality lrWGS data can be generated from low numbers of cells subjected to fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) without DNA purification. Using this protocol, we analyzed MM cells after FACS from 37 patients with MM using lrWGS. We found high concordance between lrWGS and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for the detection of recurrent translocations and CNVs. Outside of the regions investigated by FISH, we identified >150 additional SVs and CNVs across the cohort. Analysis of the lrWGS data allowed for resolution of the structure of diverse SVs affecting the MYC and t(11;14) loci, causing the duplication of genes and gene regulatory elements. In addition, we identified private SVs causing the dysregulation of genes recurrently involved in translocations with the IGH locus and show that these can alter the molecular classification of MM. Overall, we conclude that lrWGS allows for the detection of aberrations critical for MM prognostics and provides a feasible route for providing comprehensive genetics. Implementing lrWGS could provide more accurate clinical prognostics, facilitate genomic medicine initiatives, and greatly improve the stratification of patients included in clinical trials.
No smoke without fire: the impact of cigarette smoking on the immune control of tuberculosis
Authors: Quan Diana H. , Kwong Alexander J. , Hansbro Philip M. , Britton Warwick J.
Published: June 2022

Cigarette smoke (CS) exposure is a key risk factor for both active and latent tuberculosis (TB). It is associated with delayed diagnosis, more severe disease progression, unfavourable treatment outcomes and relapse after treatment. Critically, CS exposure is common in heavily populated areas with a high burden of TB, such as China, India and the Russian Federation. It is therefore prudent to evaluate interventions for TB while taking into account the immunological impacts of CS exposure. This review is a mechanistic examination of how CS exposure impairs innate barrier defences, as well as alveolar macrophage, neutrophil, dendritic cell and T-cell functions, in the context of TB infection and disease.