bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Self-Reported Substance Use among Patients with Mental Illness in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study
Authors: Karino Kilaye , Ambikile Joel S. , Iseselo Masunga K.
Published: December 2023

Background. Substance use is prevalent among patients with mental illness in low- and middle-income countries, including Tanzania. This heightened prevalence not only increases the risk of developing mental disorders and substance use disorders but also contributes to poor treatment outcomes for these patients. Despite these concerns, the current prevalence of substance use and its associated factors in this population remains unclear in Tanzania. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the 12-month period prevalence of self-reported substance use and associated factors among patients with mental illness. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study among patients with mental illness at Muhimbili National Hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Respondents were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data on self-reported substance use were collected using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) alcohol, smoking, and substance involvement screening test (ASSIST) V3.0. IBM SPSS version 25 was employed for data analysis, utilizing frequencies and percentages to determine the prevalence of self-reported substance use. The study employed bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses to investigate the association between patient characteristics and self-reported substance use, with statistical significance set at apvalue of < 0.05. Results. A total of 364 patients were enrolled in the study, with 215 (59.1%) being male and a mean (SD) age of 35.57 (±9.01) years. Among the participants, 119 (32.7%) reported substance use. The most commonly used substances were alcohol (21.7%), tobacco (19.8%), and cannabis (12.9%). Factors significantly associated with self-reported substance use included younger age (AOR: 1.829; 95% CI: 1.112, 3.010;p=0.017), male gender (AOR: 2.346; 95% CI: 1.397, 3.939;p=0.001), positive family history of mental illness (AOR: 2.247; 95% CI: 1.364, 3.701;p=0.001), and a family history of substance use (AOR: 3.804; 95% CI: 2.305, 6.276;p<0.001). Conclusions. A significant proportion, amounting to one-third of patients, reported substance use, highlighting the imperative need for targeted measures within this population. The implementation of routine substance use screening programs for patients with mental illness is crucial, alongside gender-sensitive and age-specific interventions. Consideration of patients’ family history of mental illness and substance use should be an integral part of these measures.
Antimalarial Properties of Sida cordifolia L. Leaf Extract in Mice: Survivability Depends Less on Parasitaemia Suppression
Authors: Ansong Samuel , Nkrumah Desmond , Nketia Reinhard Isaac , Bekoe Samuel Oppong , Brobbey Abena Amponsaa , Asante-Kwatia Evelyn , Komlaga Gustav
Published: December 2023

Sida cordifolia has been used to treat malaria in Ghana albeit without scientific evidence of antimalarial activity and safety. This work aimed to assess the antimalarial properties and acute toxicity of the aqueous leaf extract of S. cordifolia in murine models. Aqueous extract of the plant was analysed for both suppressive and curative antimalarial properties in chloroquine‐sensitive ANKA strains of rodent Plasmodium berghei‐infected mice. Acute toxicity evaluation was performed in rats according to the OECD 425 guidelines. The extract displayed antiplasmodial activity in vivo with ED50 of 117.49 ± 15.22 mg/kg and 144.84 ± 18.17 mg/kg in suppressive and curative studies, respectively. The highest % parasitaemia suppression exerted was 76.90 ± 0.64% and 61.50 ± 0.97%, respectively, in the suppressive and curative studies. Survival of infected mice treated with the extract was significantly prolonged. This was dependent on the dose of the extract but imperfectly related to the % parasitaemia suppression. Related antimalarial parameters including percentage hematocrit, changes in body weight, and temperature of experimental mice indicated alleviation of malarial symptoms of treated animals. The extract did not show toxicity in rats. Sida cordifolia L. has antimalarial properties, and was safe. It suppressed parasitaemia in both suppressive and curative studies, was not toxic to animals and prolonged the life of infected animals under treatment. This, therefore, justifies the traditional use of S. cordifolia for the treatment of malaria in Ghana.
Renewable Human Cell Model for Type 1 Diabetes Research: EndoC-βH5/HUVEC Coculture Spheroids
Authors: Porter James M. , Yitayew Michael , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: December 2023

In vitro drug screening for type 1 diabetes therapies has largely been conducted on human organ donor islets for proof of efficacy. While native islets are the ultimate target of these drugs (either in situ or for transplantation), significant benefit can be difficult to ascertain due to the highly heterogeneous nature of individual donors and the overall scarcity of human islets for research. We present an in vitro coculture model based on immortalized insulin-producing beta-cell lines with human endothelial cells in 3D spheroids that aims to recapitulate the islet morphology in an effort towards developing a standardized cell model for in vitro diabetes research. Human insulin-producing immortalized EndoC-βH5 cells are cocultured with human endothelial cells in varying ratios to evaluate 3D cell culture models for type 1 diabetes research. Insulin secretion, metabolic activity, live cell fluorescence staining, and gene expression assays were used to compare the viability and functionality of spheroids composed of 100% beta-cells, 1 : 1 beta-cell/endothelial, and 1 : 3 beta-cell/endothelial. Monoculture and βH5/HUVEC cocultures formed compact spheroids within 7 days, with average diameter ~140 μm. This pilot study indicated that stimulated insulin release from 0 to 20 mM glucose increased from ~8-fold for monoculture and 1 : 1 coculture spheroids to over 20-fold for 1 : 3 EndoC-βH5/HUVEC spheroids. Metabolic activity was also ~12% higher in the 1 : 3 EndoC-βH5/HUVEC group compared to other groups. Stimulating monoculture beta-cell spheroids with 20 mM glucose +1 μg/mL glycine-modified INGAP-P increased the insulin stimulation index ~2-fold compared to glucose alone. Considering their availability and consistent phenotype, EndoC-βH5-based spheroids present a useful 3D cell model for in vitro testing and drug screening applications.
Effects of Synthetic Astaxanthin on the Growth Performance, Pigmentation, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immune Response in Black Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon)
Authors: Chen Qiang , Huang Shuting , Dai Jieyu , Wang Congcong , Chen Songming , Qian Yuanxin , Gong Yangyang , Han Tao
Published: December 2023

Synthetic astaxanthin is an effective nutritional strategy for improving shrimp body color and promoting growth. However, the optimal amount of astaxanthin in feed also varies with the synthetic technology and purity. In the present study, five diets containing different doses of synthetic astaxanthin (0% (CON), 0.02% (AX0.02), 0.04% (AX0.04), 0.08% (AX0.08), and 0.16% (AX0.16)) were administered to Penaeus monodon (initial body weight: 0.3 ± 0.03 g) for 8 weeks. With an increase in astaxanthin content in feed, weight gain and specific growth rate increased initially and subsequently decreased, with the highest value appearing at AX0.08. Dietary astaxanthin supplementation obviously improved the carapace and muscle color by enhancing astaxanthin pigmentation. Meanwhile, the fatty acid profile was altered by dietary astaxanthin, as evidenced by a decline in palmitic acid proportion, along with an increase in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) contents in muscle. In addition, dietary astaxanthin supplementation regulated prawn’s antioxidant capacity. In the hemolymph, the activities of glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) showed a significantly decrease trend with linear effect. The activities of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) were first downregulated and then upregulated with significantly quadratic pattern. In the hepatopancreas, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the contents of MDA were significantly downregulated with the increase of dietary astaxanthin levels. Reduced glutathione (GSH) contents and catalase (CAT) activities were also significantly decreased in group AX0.08. Correspondingly, astaxanthin decreased GSH and MDA contents under transportation stress. Moreover, the mRNA expression of immune genes (traf6, relish, and myd88) were inhibited by dietary astaxanthin supplementation. Based on the results of polynomial contrasts analysis and Duncan’s test, dietary synthetic astaxanthin is a suitable feed additive to improve the growth, body color, antioxidant capacity, and nonspecific immunity of P. monodon. According to the second-order polynomial regression analysis based on the weight gain, the optimal supplementation level of dietary astaxanthin was 90 mg kg−1 in P. monodon.
Implant-Retained Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a Patient with Severe Oral Lichen Sclerosus
Authors: Kluenter Tim , Stoilov Milan
Published: December 2023

Background. Lichen sclerosus is a rare condition that occurs in the genital area or on the extraoral skin but can also manifest orally (oral lichen sclerosus (OLS)). The condition is associated with atrophy, scarring, and functional limitations of the tissues. In the present case, an extremely pronounced variant is described, and the oral rehabilitation of the patient is presented. Case Report. The edentulous patient showed a progressive course with severely restricted mouth opening and persistent pain. Conventional dental treatment was therefore impossible. To address this issue, two implants were placed in each jaw at the position of the lateral incisors. After osseointegration and exposure of the implants, provisional bridges made of polymethyl-methacrylate were fitted to test the new jaw relation. After a successful provisional phase, an FDP in the sense of an extreme short dental arch (ESDA) has been inserted. Conclusion. The experimental treatment of the patient with only a total of four implants and the ESDA concept represented a satisfactory therapy for the patient. The patient regained her chewing ability, which significantly increased her oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Still, it should be noted that this is a high-risk and experimental prosthetic treatment.
Dynamics in the Predictability of Credit Default Swap Spreads of EU Companies
Authors: Romanyuk Kirill , Anvarov Sarvar , Shumilov Mark , Zheleyko Alecksey
Published: December 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic affected financial instruments and markets all around the world. Credit default swap contracts of EU companies were analysed in this paper. The data consist of daily credit default swap spreads and market capitalisations of EU companies, exchange rates, LIBOR rates, bond yields, and commodity futures prices from January 2010 to February 2022. The dynamics in the performance of forecasting models for credit default swap spreads before and after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic were measured by relative error metrics, i.e., relative root mean squared error, relative mean absolute error, and relative mean absolute percentage error. The results show a small drop in the performance right after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic that is mitigated by strong performance in the rest of the year, followed by a significant drop in the performance in the second year of the pandemic.
Rhabdomyolysis and Resultant Acute Renal Failure due to Legionella Pneumonia in a Patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Kypreos Margaret , Mehta Roma
Published: December 2023

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe pneumonia caused by Legionella that results in laboratory abnormalities including hyponatremia and elevated liver enzymes. Rarely skeletal muscle and renal abnormalities occur. This case report describes a case of Legionella pneumonia complicated by rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure in a patient with the human immunodeficiency virus.
Antioxidant Activity of Auricularia auricula Polysaccharides with Different Molecular Weights and Cytotoxicity Difference of Polysaccharides Regulated CaOx to HK-2 Cells
Authors: Heng Bao-Li , Wu Fan-Yu , Liu Jing-Hong , Ouyang Jian-Ming
Published: December 2023

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the growth of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals regulated by Auricularia auricular polysaccharides (AAPs) with different viscosity-average molecular weights (Mv), the toxicity of AAP-regulated CaOx crystals toward HK-2 cells, and the prevention and treatment capabilities of AAPs for CaOx stones. Methods. The scavenging capability and reducing capacity of four kinds of AAPs (Mv of 31.52, 11.82, 5.86, and 3.34 kDa) on hydroxyl, ABTS, and DPPH free radicals and their capability to chelate divalent iron ions were detected. AAP-regulated CaOx crystals were evaluated by using zeta potential, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The cytotoxicity of AAP-regulated crystals was evaluated through examination of cell viability, cell death, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and cell surface hyaluronic acid (HA) expression. Results. The in vitro antioxidant activities of the four AAPs were observed in the following order: AAP0 < AAP1 < AAP2 < AAP3. Thus, AAP3, which had the smallest Mv, had the strongest antioxidant activity. AAPs can inhibit the growth of CaOx monohydrate (COM), induce the formation of CaOx dihydrate (COD), and reduce the degree of crystal aggregation, with AAP3 exhibiting the strongest capability. Cell experiments showed the lowest cytotoxicity in AAP3-regulated CaOx crystals, along with the lowest MDA content, HA expression, and cell mortality. In addition, COD presented less cytotoxicity than COM. Meanwhile, the cytotoxicity of blunt crystals was less than that of sharp crystals. Conclusion. AAPs, particularly AAP3, showed an excellent antioxidative capability in vitro, and AAP3-regulated CaOx crystals presented minimal cytotoxicity.
THE IMPACT OF FOREIGN AND NATIVE HUMAN CAPITAL ON TURKEY'S ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: Ebghaeı Felor
Published: December 2023

In this study, the impact of human capital on Turkey's economic growth during 2003-2021 was investigated. For this purpose, the effects of native and foreign labor are examined separately within the framework of the Cobb-Douglas production function. The Johansen cointegration method was used for the analysis. The results of the estimation of the long-run model show that both foreign and native labors have a positive effect on economic growth, with the effect of native labors being larger than the effect of foreign labor. Both native and foreign labor play an essential role in creating the right background for Turkey's economic growth, so native and foreign labor should be used to increase productivity and production.
FROM NATURAL LAW TO UNIVERSAL DECLARATIONS: IMPLICATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS TREATIES AND THE RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT
Authors: Yücel Zeynep
Published: December 2023

In today's world, the concept of human rights stands as a beacon of hope, advocating for the fundamental dignity and freedoms of every individual. Rooted in the recognition that all human beings possess inherent worth, human rights provide a universal framework that transcends cultural, social, and political boundaries. They represent a collective aspiration to create a world where fairness, justice, and equality prevail. Throughout history, the concept of human rights has evolved, driven by the need to address pressing societal challenges and protect individuals from oppression, discrimination, and violence. From ancient civilizations to the modern era, societies have grappled with questions surrounding the rights and responsibilities of individuals and the role of governments in safeguarding these rights. Today, human rights encompass a broad spectrum of principles and entitlements that serve as a moral compass for societies worldwide. They encompass civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, recognizing that a person's well-being and dignity are intertwined with their ability to enjoy a range of freedoms, opportunities, and protections.
It’s About Time: Loewald, Lacan, and AprÈs-Coup in America
Authors: Margulies Alfred
Published: December 2023

Martin Heidegger’s thought deeply influenced both Hans Loewald and Jacques Lacan, the catalyst they seemed to have been waiting for. For Loewald, Heidegger’s ontological centrality of time to Being-in-the-World would bridge to Freud’s centrality of transference to the analytic process, thereby operationalizing transference as a prism of time. In revealing the interwoven correlatives of present-past-future, how they bootstrap one another phenomenologically, Loewald also revealed a spiral of recursive meaning (in essence, après-coup) that draws us into the future, “the something more” of existence. In parallel, through his recognition of the power of après-coup, Lacan rescued from obscurity Freud’s profound conception of Nachträglichkeit, or the spiral and causal force of unfolding meaning. Lacan was now situated to bring après-coupin conjunction with Heidegger’s Being-in-the-World, with time interwoven into all aspects of existence, thereby underpinning, too, language and the Symbolic Order. By reading Freud through Heidegger and then creating their brilliant syntheses, Loewald and Lacan, through their striking sameness and differences, illuminate the nature of the unconscious, of memory and meaning, of the spiral of time, and of existence itself.
The effectiveness of brief non-pharmacological interventions in emergency departments and psychiatric inpatient units for people in crisis: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Huber Jacqueline P , Milton Alyssa , Brewer Matthew C , Norrie Louisa M , Hartog Saskia M , Glozier Nick
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Heterogeneous brief non-pharmacological interventions and guidelines exist to treat the burgeoning presentations to both emergency department and inpatient settings, for those in a crisis of mental ill-health. We systematically reviewed the literature to create a taxonomy of these brief non-pharmacological interventions, and review their evaluation methods and effectiveness.

Method:

We conducted a systematic review across Cochrane, CINAHL, DARE, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO databases. Studies meeting quality criteria, using Joanna Briggs Institute tools, were eligible. Interventions were categorised, and outcomes synthesised.

Results:

Thirty-nine studies were included: 8 randomised controlled trials, 17 quasi-experimental, 11 qualitative studies, and 3 file audits. Taxonomy produced six coherent intervention types: Skills-focussed, Environment-focussed, Special Observation, Psychoeducation, Multicomponent Group and Multicomponent Individual. Despite this, a broad and inconsistent range of outcome measures reflected different outcome priorities and prevented systematic comparison of different types of intervention or meta-analysis. Few brief non-pharmacological interventions had consistent evidential support: sensory modulation rooms consistently improved distress in inpatient settings. Short admissions may reduce suicide attempts and readmission, if accompanied by psychotherapy. Suicide-specific interventions in emergency departments may improve depressive symptoms, but not suicide attempt rates. There was evidence that brief non-pharmacological interventions did not reduce incidence of self-harm on inpatient wards. We found no evidence for frequently used interventions such as no-suicide contracting, special observation or inpatient self-harm interventions.

Conclusion:

Categorising brief non-pharmacological interventions is feasible, but an evidence base for many is severely limited if not missing. Even when there is evidence, the inconsistency in outcomes often precludes clinicians from making inferences, although some interventions show promise.
Discretion and Disagreement: A Longitudinal Study of Departures Under Presumptive and Advisory Sentencing Guidelines
Authors: Witwer Amanda R.
Published: December 2023

Policy disagreements have been overlooked as a driver of departure in state sentencing guideline systems. The current study uses the relaxation of Michigan’s sentencing guidelines as a case study for investigating how increases in sentencing discretion affect the use of departures. The analysis focuses on sentencing for the highest crime classes as potential sites of policy disagreement. Results reveal a significant increase in the monthly rate of downward departure and growing variability in departure usage under advisory guidelines. Elevated downward departure rates and differences in the likelihood of downward departure by offense type point to judicial disagreement with guideline sentencing recommendations. Patterns in departure are a valuable source of feedback on guidelines that should inform routine modifications.
Conceptualizing Correlated Residuals as Item-Level Method Effects in Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Schweizer Karl , Gold Andreas , Krampen Dorothea , Troche Stefan
Published: December 2023

Conceptualizing two-variable disturbances preventing good model fit in confirmatory factor analysis as item-level method effects instead of correlated residuals avoids violating the principle that residual variation is unique for each item. The possibility of representing such a disturbance by a method factor of a bifactor measurement model was investigated with respect to model identification. It turned out that a suitable way of realizing the method factor is its integration into a fixed-links, parallel-measurement or tau-equivalent measurement submodel that is part of the bifactor model. A simulation study comparing these submodels revealed similar degrees of efficiency in controlling the influence of two-variable disturbances on model fit. Perfect correspondence characterized the fit results of the model assuming correlated residuals and the fixed-links model, and virtually also the tau-equivalent model.
Undoing slavery’s anonymity: The politics of identification in twenty-first century Black Canadian poetry
Authors: Cuder-Domínguez Pilar
Published: December 2023

This essay discusses the language strategies deployed in twenty-first century works by three Black Canadian poets that engage with the archive of slavery (Sylvia D. Hamilton, charles c. smith and M. NourbeSe Philip) and reads them as performing a counter-pedagogy of cruelty against African-descended peoples. The analysis focuses on the politics of identification pursued by these poets in order to bring back the memory of enslaved Black subjects into the realm of the ‘human’, and particularly the recurrent device of naming or renaming as a way to counter one of the most pervasive dehumanizing practices of slavery, the erasure of one’s past and the imposition of anonymity. By means of this linguistic resource they achieve common aims: restoring dignity to the enslaved, constructing an alternative site of memorialization, and dismantling hegemonic narratives of Blackness in the nation.
Assessment of vegetable fiber-matrix adhesion and durability, in cement-based and polymer-based composite: Principles from literature review
Authors: Closse Ashley , Onesippe Potiron Cristel , Arsene Marie-Ange , Bilba Ketty
Published: December 2023

This paper presents some principles of research done on the assessment of fiber-matrix adhesion and durability in cement-based and polymer-based composites reinforced with vegetable fibers. Natural vegetable fibers are light, biodegradable and low-cost; however, their compatibility with both matrices - which are generally hydrophobic- is poor, because of their hydrophilic character. This review presents the different strategies proposed in literature to improve (1) interfacial bonding between matrix and fibers and (2) sustainability of composite materials reinforced by vegetable fibers. In order to achieve these goals, searchers investigate chemical or/and physical treatments of fibers and/or matrix modification of composites materials. The impacts of these strategies are followed in terms of mechanical properties, thermal properties, morphology and water absorption of the composite materials. Authors proposed to focus on the influence of aging on these characteristics in order to estimate durability.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Academic Performance Among U.S. Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tyrone Rachel S. , Fletcher Lauren M. , Walker Courtney S. , Compretta Caroline , Burns Paul , Reneker Jennifer C.
Published: December 2023

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with disparate health and educational outcomes. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the relationship between ACEs and academic performance among U.S. children and adolescents. A total of 20 articles were included for a descriptive synthesis and 11 articles were included in the quantitative synthesis. Among the 11 studies, we found a weak, negative correlation between ACEs and academic performance. Further research is needed to explore all the potential adverse exposures that could impact academic outcomes and factors that might mediate the effects of ACEs on academic performance.
Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of Three Outreach Events to Improve COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Communities in Houston, Texas, 2022
Authors: Munoz-Lavanderos Carmin , Oluyomi Abiodun , Rosales Omar , Hernandez Norvin , Mensah-Bonsu Nana , Badr Hoda
Published: December 2023

Objectives:

Lack of access to timely, accurate, and linguistically appropriate COVID-19 information has complicated the dissemination of evidence-based information and contributed to vaccine hesitancy among racial and ethnic minority groups in the United States. We developed community events that provided outreach, education, and access to COVID-19 vaccination to overcome vaccine hesitancy in these communities.

Methods:

Using spatial analysis techniques, we identified 3 communities with low vaccine uptake in Houston, Texas, in fall 2021; engaged 20 stakeholders from these communities via 4 focus groups to understand barriers to vaccination; and developed and implemented 3 COVID-19 vaccine education and outreach events tailored to the needs of these communities in January–March 2022. We used program evaluation surveys to assess attendee characteristics and satisfaction with the events. Vaccinated attendees also completed surveys on what motivated them to get vaccinated.

Results:

Two communities were predominantly Hispanic, and the third had an equal number of Black and Hispanic residents. Based on community stakeholder input, the study team organized 2 health fairs and 1 community festival featuring dialogue-based COVID-19 vaccine engagement in January and March 2022. Across the 3 events, a total of 865 attendees received COVID-19 education and 205 (24.0%) attendees received a COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Of 90 attendees who completed program evaluation surveys, 81 (90%) rated the outreach event as good or excellent. Of 145 attendees who completed postvaccination surveys, 132 (91%) endorsed ≥1 key program feature as motivating them to either get vaccinated or vaccinate their child that day.

Conclusion:

Community outreach events are important strategies for disseminating information, building trust, and facilitating COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
Adolescent Psychopathic Traits, Early Adversity, and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Brazil Kristopher J. , Forth Adelle E.
Published: December 2023

Research shows psychopathic traits in adults are associated with perpetrating intimate partner violence (IPV). Less research, however, has examined this association in adolescents’ relationships. Our study examines whether adolescent psychopathic traits are associated with different forms of IPV and whether early adverse experiences of abuse and/or interparental violence might be implicated in this relationship. A mixed sample of 156 justice-involved and at-risk adolescents were assessed with the PCL:YV, participated in an early adversity interview assessing abuse and interparental violence, and completed IPV measures of physical and psychological aggressive acts. Psychopathic traits were associated with each IPV measure over and above early adversity. Psychopathic traits continued to be associated with psychological but not physical IPV after accounting for sample type. Furthermore, psychopathic traits indirectly linked interparental violence with psychological IPV, suggesting that psychopathic traits may play a role in the intergenerational perpetration of partner violence.
Forced marriages and unintentional divorces: The national attitudes in Armenia and Uzbekistan towards the ‘Russian World’
Authors: Cucciolla Riccardo Mario
Published: December 2023

In 1991, new political discourses emerged in the Soviet republics that had to reinvent themselves as independent states, redefining their national identity on several dimensions. This process matured ambiguous attitudes toward the former imperial center and different visions over the scopes, perspectives, and claims of a ‘Russian World’ in the former Soviet space, where Moscow still asserted an exclusive political and cultural sphere of influence. In this article, we will review the cases of Armenia and Uzbekistan with peculiar national projects and relationships with Moscow, reviewing their inclusion within the USSR, their path to independence, their post-Soviet relations with Moscow, and the changes during the turning points of 2014 with the annexation of Crimea and after the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Romance matters: The role of dating in adolescents’ friendship beginnings and endings
Authors: Zhang Haoyang , Felmlee Diane
Published: December 2023

We examined the influence of romantic relationships on the formation and dissolution of adolescent friendships with a longitudinal network sample (N = 133) from age 14 to 15. Using a dynamic, network statistical model (i.e., STERGM), we found that engagement in a romantic relationship shaped friendship homophily over time, with daters becoming friends with other daters, and singles forming friendships with other singles. Partnered adolescents were not more likely than those who were unattached to dissolve their friendships; however, they were significantly less prone to form new friendships over time. Results broaden our understanding of the role of romantic relationships in youth friendships by showing that romantic involvement deters friendship initiation, but when friendships do form, they tend to be among those who are similarly dating. Our study highlights the significance of adopting a dynamic, social network perspective to examine both the formation and breakup of friendship transitions during this pivotal stage of life.
Longitudinal associations between psychedelic use and unusual visual experiences in the United States and the United Kingdom
Authors: Simonsson Otto , Hendricks Peter S , Stenfors Cecilia UD , Goldberg Simon B , Honk Ludwig , Osika Walter
Published: December 2023

Background:

Whereas findings from case reports and cross-sectional studies suggest that naturalistic psychedelic use may be associated with unusual visual experiences that occur after the acute pharmacological effects have subsided, such findings need to be replicated in longitudinal studies to better understand potential cause-and-effect relationships.

Aims:

To investigate longitudinal associations between naturalistic psychedelic use and unusual visual experiences.

Methods:

Using a longitudinal observational research design with samples representative of the US and UK adult populations with regard to sex, age, and ethnicity ( N = 9732), we investigated the relationship between psychedelic use during the 2-month study period and changes in past-week unusual visual experiences.

Results:

The follow-up survey was completed by 79% of respondents ( n = 7667), with 100 respondents reporting psychedelic use during the 2-month study period (1.3% of those who responded at follow-up). In covariate-adjusted regression models, the results showed that, as hypothesized, psychedelic use during the 2-month study period was associated with greater increases in unusual visual experiences. Notably, there was an interaction between lifetime psychedelic use and psychedelic use during the study period on unusual visual experiences such that those who used psychedelics for the first time reported greater increases in unusual visual experiences.

Conclusions:

Psychedelic use may elicit unusual visual experiences that occur after the acute pharmacological effects have subsided, especially among those who have not used psychedelics previously. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to further elucidate these relationships.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 infection in skua and gulls in the United Kingdom, 2022
Authors: Lean Fabian Z. X. , Falchieri Marco , Furman Natalia , Tyler Glen , Robinson Caroline , Holmes Paul , Reid Scott M. , Banyard Ashley C. , Brown Ian H. , Man Catherine , Núñez Alejandro
Published: December 2023

The reemergence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) subtype H5N1 in the United Kingdom in 2021–2022 has caused unprecedented epizootic events in wild birds and poultry. During the summer of 2022, there was a shift in virus transmission dynamics resulting in increased HPAIV infection in seabirds, and consequently, a profound impact on seabird populations. To understand the pathological impact of HPAIV in seabirds, we evaluated the virus antigen distribution and associated pathological changes in the tissues of great skua ( Stercorarius skua, n = 8), long-tailed skua ( Stercorarius longicaudus, n = 1), European herring gull ( Larus argentatus, n = 5), and black-headed gull ( Chroicocephalus ridibundus, n = 4), which succumbed to natural infection of HPAIV during the summer of 2022. Cases were collected from Shetland, including Scatness (mainland), No Ness (mainland), Clumlie (mainland), Hermaness (island), Fair Isle (island), Noss (island), and the West Midlands, South East, and South West of England. Grossly, gizzard ulceration was observed in one great skua and pancreatic necrosis was observed in 4 herring gulls, with intralesional viral antigen detected subsequently. Microscopical analysis revealed neuro-, pneumo-, lymphoid-, and cardiomyotropism of HPAIV H5N1, with the most common virus-associated pathological changes being pancreatic and splenic necrosis. Examination of the reproductive tract of the great skua revealed HPAIV-associated oophoritis and salpingitis, and virus replication within the oviductal epithelium. The emergence of HPAIV in seabirds Stercorariidae and Laridae, particularly during summer 2022, has challenged the dogma of HPAIV dynamics, posing a significant threat to wild bird life with potential implications for the reproductive performance of seabirds of conservation importance.
Analysis of wind power curve modeling using multi-model regression
Authors: Patidar Vivek Kumar , Wadhvani Rajesh , Gupta Muktesh
Published: December 2023

Wind power prediction is vital in renewable energy. Correct forecasts enable utility companies to optimize production and minimize costs. However, due to the intricate nature of wind patterns, making precise predictions is challenging. This article introduces a novel model combining Quantile Regression and Decision Tree Regression for forecasting wind energy. Trained on historical wind speed and output data, the model’s efficacy is assessed using metrics like mean absolute error and root mean squared error. The model is evaluated using the SCADA Turkey dataset, a prominent benchmark in wind forecasting. Preliminary results demonstrate the combined model’s superior predictive accuracy over traditional regression models, highlighting its potential for enhanced wind energy forecasting.
Flexural Capacity Criteria for Load And Resistance Factor Rating of Shallow Covered Corrugated Metal Culverts
Authors: Liu Bujing , Brian Anderson J. , Davidson James S.
Published: December 2023

Departments of transportation are required to inspect and rate bridges that span more than 20 ft (6.1 m). One frequent challenge is rating shallow-buried corrugated metal culverts, since there are no standard methodologies deemed applicable to all sections and depths for defining the resistance when moment or combined moment and thrust controls. The commonly used Culvert ANalysis and DEsign (CANDE) finite element software was developed specifically for culvert design; its companion program, CANDE Tool Box, enables computing of load rating factors. However, owing to nonlinearities associated with soil–structure interaction and yielding of the corrugated cross-section, extracting accurate representations of available resistance for shallow-buried corrugated metal culverts may require a cumbersome iterative procedure. Furthermore, the resulting rating factor from not properly implementing nonlinear procedures may indicate an available resistance that is unconservative from a safety perspective. Recent improvements adopted by AASHTO and incorporated into CANDE include combined thrust–moment criterion, but are deemed suitable only for culverts with deep corrugation cross-sections. The objective of this research was therefore to assess flexure criteria for load rating shallow-buried corrugated metal pipe and arch structures, including standard corrugation cross-sections, to simplify the process without significantly sacrificing accuracy. Challenges with available methods and recently implemented combined criterion for the shallow-buried culvert scenario are first discussed. A modified flexural capacity criterion based on load and resistance factor rating is then developed and presented. Finally, the accuracy and applicability of the methodologies are assessed using a range of practical corrugated metal culvert dimensions and parameters.
BML-111, the agonist of lipoxin A4, suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and migration of MCF-7 cells via regulating the lipoxygenase pathway
Authors: Xu Fen , Zhou Xiaoyan , Lin Lan , Xu Jing , Feng Yu , He Yuanqiao , Hao Hua
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Aberrant epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration frequently occur during tumour progression. BML-111, an analogue of lipoxin A4, has been implicated in inflammation in cancer research. Methods: 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, western blot, Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), transwell assay, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were conducted in this study. Results: In vitro experiments revealed that BML-111 inhibited EMT and migration in CoCl2-stimulated MCF-7 cells. These effects were achieved by inhibiting MMP-2 and MMP-9, which are downregulated by 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). Moreover, BML-111 inhibited EMT and migration of breast cancer cells in BALB/c nude mice inoculated with MCF-7 cells. Conclusion: Our results suggest that BML-111 may be a potential therapeutic drug for breast cancer and that blocking the 5-LOX pathway could be a possible approach for mining effective drug targets.
Comparative Performance of Three Claims-Based Frailty Measures Among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Heins Sara E. , Agniel Denis , Mann Jacob , Sorbero Melony E.
Published: December 2023

Frailty is an important predictor of mortality, health care costs and utilization, and health outcomes. Validated measures of frailty are not consistently collected during clinical encounters, making comparisons across populations challenging. However, several claims-based algorithms have been developed to predict frailty and related concepts. This study compares performance of three such algorithms among Medicare beneficiaries. Claims data from 12-month continuous enrollment periods were selected during 2014–2016. Frailty scores, calculated using previously developed algorithms from Faurot, Kim, and RAND, were added to baseline regression models to predict claims-based outcomes measured in the following year. Root mean square error and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were calculated for each model and outcome combination and tested in subpopulations of interest. Overall, Kim models performed best across most outcomes, metrics, and subpopulations. Kim frailty scores may be used by health systems and researchers for risk adjustment or targeting interventions.
Action mechanism of the overturning retainer and the slipper of axial piston machines
Authors: Wang Lei , Hu Min , Zeng Yishan , Zhang Tao , Wang Shushu , Liu Rui
Published: December 2023

The retainer in the faulty piston pump exhibits abnormal wear and fracture. To investigate the early failure mechanism of the fractured retainer, a model is presented for calculating the transient contact between the overturning retainer and the slipper. The trajectory equations between the overturning retainer and the slipper are established based on the transformation matrix and the operating mechanism of the slipper in the oil-sucking and oil-discharging areas. The push point trajectory between the overturning retainer and the slipper is determined, while also identifying the failure mechanism of the retainer extrusion wear. The results demonstrate that as the degree of overturning increases, there is an escalation in both the extent and range of extrusion and wear between the failure retainer and the slipper. This research elucidates the failure mechanism of the retainer, thereby establishing a fundamental basis for dynamic modeling and coupled vibration analysis of overturning retainers.
Constitutive models based on titanium and its alloys for studying deformation and stresses in dental prosthesis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Kumar Srivastav Chitrance , Khan Debashis
Published: December 2023

For optimized design and better functioning of dental implants, researchers to a great extent have used the finite element method (FEM) as a computational/numerical tool. It appears from the review that, despite a significant amount of success in understanding the deformation and stress fields generated in dental implants and its surrounding bone, there are still several inadequacies prevailing in the constitutive models used in dentistry. Therefore, the theoretical/computational basis of dental prosthesis’s deformation and stress analysis needs further improvement. To better understand the deformation and stresses produced in dental implants and their surrounding bone, the present work summarizes and discusses various constitutive models for titanium and its alloys as an implant material developed over the past few decades. The accomplishments and shortcomings of the current models are discussed. In addition, for completeness, the present study also summaries the effects of other factors in optimizing the dental implant. Critical findings indicate that longer dental implants effectively reduce stress gradients in the cortical peri-implant region. Threaded implants offer notable benefits, such as reduced bone stresses, enhanced osseointegration surface, and minimum slippage risk at the bone-implant junction. To further improve dental implant success rates, it is essential to consider the impact of dynamic loading and the viscoelastic behaviour of surrounding tissues. The use of porous implant structures shows promise in reducing maximum stress in cortical bone and enhancing load distribution, ultimately ameliorating the adverse effects of stress shielding in dental implant procedures. Further, some guidelines and research gaps have also been highlighted to develop more realistic time-dependent constitutive models of both implants and their surrounding bones.
The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Modulating the Breast Cancer Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Luxiao
Published: December 2023

The role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the breast tumor microenvironment (TME) is significant and multifaceted. MSCs are recruited to breast tumor sites through molecular signals released by tumor sites. Once in the TME, MSCs undergo polarization and interact with various cell populations, including immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), cancer stem cells (CSCs), and breast cancer cells. In most cases, MSCs play roles in breast cancer therapeutic resistance, but there is also evidence that indicates their abilities to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. MSCs possess inherent regenerative and homing properties, making them attractive candidates for cell-based therapies. Therefore, MSCs can be engineered to express therapeutic molecules or deliver anti-cancer agents directly to tumor sites. Unraveling the intricate relationship between MSCs and the breast TME has the potential to uncover novel therapeutic targets and advance our understanding of breast cancer biology.
The Effect of Complaint-based Patient Education on Inappropriate Use of the Emergency Department: Experiences of an Academic Centre in Turkey and Literature Review
Authors: Idil Hasan , Yenice Gokce Ozbay , Atilla Ozge Duman
Published: December 2023

Inappropriate use of the emergency department (ED) is a major problem worldwide. The lack of health care knowledge of the patients is an important factor in this respect. As a method to increase the health care information of patients who presented to the ED of an urban tertiary care hospital for non-urgent reasons, a training programme was implemented throughout 2017. For this purpose, the most frequent complaints of inappropriate use of ED were identified and educational leaflets were prepared regarding them. Through these leaflets, it was aimed to inform the patients about what they could do on their own for their mild complaints and in which situations they should seek treatment from ED, primary health care units, or outpatient clinics. In order to measure the effectiveness of this complaint-based patient education, as pre- and post-training, the inappropriate usage rates of ED for 2016 and 2018 were compared. Between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017, the rate of inappropriate use of ED was 43.9% (79,612 out of 181,216). Patients were informed about the urgency of their complaints through educational leaflets prepared. After the complaint-based patient education conducted throughout 2017, a significant decrease was observed in the rate of inappropriate use of the ED in post-training period in 2018 compared to before training in 2016 (OR 1.49; p < .001, 95% CI [1.47 1.51]). As a result, it can be said that structured and focused information programmes should be implemented for the patients presenting to the ED with non-urgent complaints. An effective complaint-based patient education can reduce the inappropriate use of ED.
Innovative Approaches in the Management of Healthcare Organisations
Authors: Jankelová Nadežda , Joniaková Zuzana , Mišún Juraj
Published: December 2023

Our study provides a comprehensive view of innovations in the management of healthcare facilities (HCF). It fills the research gap and contributes to discussions on the need to introduce new innovative management tools into the curricula of healthcare managers and professionals. The design of the study is based on answering research questions (RQ) by statistical processing of data from 181 managers of various types of HCF in Slovakia, obtained by questionnaire. We evaluate the use of innovative approaches in the management of healthcare organisations in the application of hard and soft management tools and their relationship to the economic results of these organisations. RQs are aimed at differentiating the application of innovative approaches in management depending on the characteristics of HCF and their managers and depending on the economic results. There is a positive relationship between the use of innovative approaches in management and the economic results of HCF. There are significant differences in the degree of application of innovative approaches between different types of facilities, the leaders in their implementation are university hospitals. The medical education of managers with the additional completed specialised management study has a significant relation to the application of innovative approaches in management.