bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regional Disparities in Prescription Methamphetamine and Amphetamine Distribution Across the United States
Authors: Lopera Sarah D. , O’Kane Victoria M. , Goldhirsh Jessica L. , Piper Brian J.
Published: June 2023

Objective:

The objectives of this report were to characterize the regional and state differences in prescription methamphetamine and amphetamine distribution in the US.

Methods:

Prescription methamphetamine and amphetamine distribution was obtained from the Drug Enforcement Administration for 2019.

Results:

Total per capita drug weight distribution of amphetamine was 4,000 times higher than methamphetamine. Regionally, total per capita drug weight for methamphetamine was highest in the West (32.2% of total distribution) and lowest in the Northeast (17.4%). The total per capita drug weight for amphetamine was highest in the South (37.0% of total distribution) and lowest in the Northeast (19.4%). Distribution of methamphetamine was 16.1% while amphetamine was 54.0% of its production quota.

Conclusion:

Overall, prescription amphetamine distribution was common while prescription methamphetamine distribution was rare. The patterns observed in distribution are likely the result of stigmatization, differences in accessibility, and the efforts of initiatives such as the Montana Meth Project.
Fast truncated SVD of sparse and dense matrices on graphics processors
Authors: Tomás Andrés E. , Quintana-Orti Enrique S. , Anzt Hartwig
Published: June 2023

We investigate the solution of low-rank matrix approximation problems using the truncated singular value decomposition (SVD). For this purpose, we develop and optimize graphics processing unit (GPU) implementations for the randomized SVD and a blocked variant of the Lanczos approach. Our work takes advantage of the fact that the two methods are composed of very similar linear algebra building blocks, which can be assembled using numerical kernels from existing high-performance linear algebra libraries. Furthermore, the experiments with several sparse matrices arising in representative real-world applications and synthetic dense test matrices reveal a performance advantage of the block Lanczos algorithm when targeting the same approximation accuracy.
Volunteer COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment Makers: Third Sphere Labor, Caring Masculinities, and Redoing Gender
Authors: Kelly Kimberly , Leap Braden , Stalp Marybeth C.
Published: June 2023

In the opening months of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S., thousands of volunteer makers stepped up to produce PPE through third sphere labor, volunteer work that emphasizes community maintenance. Drawing on 78 semi-structured interviews and 662 open-ended questionnaires, we consider how third sphere carework could destabilize hierarchies between public, private, and third sphere labor and in the valuation of feminized versus masculinized work. We find women and men makers differed in what they made, but not in their motivations for producing PPE or how they valued the work of other makers. Makers rejected the idea that they should perform such work without any appreciation from third sphere recipients, but private sphere demands limited women makers more than men. Throughout men makers’ efforts, we find ample evidence of caring masculinities as a response to disaster. We conclude with a consideration of what these trends mean for redoing gender and third sphere carework.
Feminizing hormone therapy in a Canadian cohort of transgender women with and without HIV
Authors: Armstrong Ian , Lacombe-Duncan Ashley , Shokoohi Mostafa , Persad Yasmeen , Tseng Alice , Fung Raymond , Underhill Angela , Côté Pierre , Machouf Nimâ , Saucier Adrien , Varriano Brenda , Brundage Monica , Jones Reilly , Weisdorf Thea , Goodhew John , MacLeod John , Loutfy Mona
Published: June 2023

Background

Potential bidirectional drug–drug interactions between feminizing hormone therapy (FHT) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are of concern for trans women with HIV and their healthcare providers. This study aimed to characterize patterns of FHT and ART among trans women with HIV and to compare serum hormone levels to trans women without HIV.

Methods

Charts of trans women were reviewed at seven HIV primary care or endocrinology clinics in Toronto and Montreal from 2018 to 2019. ART regimens, FHT use, serum estradiol, and serum testosterone levels were compared on the basis of HIV status (positive, negative, missing/unknown).

Results

Of 1495 trans women, there were 86 trans women with HIV, of whom 79 (91.8%) were on ART. ART regimens were most commonly integrase inhibitor-based (67.4%), many boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat (45.3%). Fewer (71.8%) trans women with HIV were prescribed FHT, compared to those without HIV (88.4%) and those with missing/unknown status (90.2%, p < 0.001). Among trans women on FHT with recorded serum estradiol ( n = 1153), there was no statistical difference in serum estradiol between those with HIV (median: 203 pmol/L, IQR: 95.5, 417.5) and those with negative (200 mol/L [113, 407]) or missing/unknown HIV status (227 pmol/L [127.5, 384.5) ( p = 0.633). Serum testosterone concentrations were also similar between groups.

Conclusions

In this cohort, trans women with HIV were prescribed FHT less often than trans women with negative or unknown HIV status. There was no difference in serum estradiol or testosterone levels of trans women on FHT regardless of HIV status, providing reassurance regarding potential drug–drug interactions between FHT and ART.
Investigation of vibration characteristics of gear-bearing transmission system considering the effect of profile shifted coefficient
Authors: Wang Hao , Liu Jie , Zhao Weiqiang
Published: June 2023

In this paper, a dynamics model of the gear-bearing transmission system with bending and torsion coupling is established, and the influence of gear shifted on the vibration characteristics of the gear system is considered. First, the time-varying mesh stiffness of the profile shifted gear is derived by using the potential energy method. Then, based on the Lagrange equation numerical method, the vibration differential equation of the model is obtained, and the differential equation is solved by the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method. Finally, the influence of the profile shifted coefficient and input torque on the vibration characteristics of the gear transmission system is analyzed by using the time domain graph and the frequency domain graph. The conclusions drawn from this study can help engineers better understand the running performance and vibration characteristics of profile shifted gear.
Transformative experiences in tourism: A conceptual and critical analysis integrating consumer and managerial perspectives
Authors: Amaro Dina , Caldeira Ana Maria , Seabra Cláudia
Published: June 2023

Transformative tourism experiences are gaining increasing attention due to a shift in research towards longer-lasting experiences that have a greater impact on tourists' happiness. However, the existing body of knowledge on this topic remains disjointed, with different approaches appearing to be disconnected. Therefore, the purpose of this conceptual paper is to further clarify and integrate various theories and lines of research on transformative tourist experiences. It proposes a managerial approach, as an offering, within the framework of the experience economy, and a consumer approach, as an inner-oriented product, within the scope of transformation experiences theories. Although these perspectives may seem quite dissimilar, they are complementary, as inner changes in tourists must occur for any offer to be truly transformative. This paper aims to provide a more coherent and comprehensive conceptualization of transformative experiences by incorporating both managerial and consumer perspectives. It also pretends to support tourism stakeholders and destination planners in designing and developing more impactful and potentially transformative tourism experiences.
The effect of race and foreign accent on managers’ career progression
Authors: Sultana Nasreen , Pekerti Andre A , Okimoto Tyler G , Härtel Charmine E J
Published: June 2023

This paper investigated immigrant groups’ attributes as factors inhibiting immigrants’ career development and progression vis-à-vis local-born-mainstream-groups. Drawing on the Stereotype Content Model (SCM) of warmth and competence, we examined perceptual cues (surface-diversity) and factors that act as career progression barriers. Results revealed race (white, non-white) and accents, rather than immigrant-status, were largely responsible for perceiving barriers. Immigrant non-white managers had more limited access than immigrant white managers to informal networking, mentoring and career support irrespective of their immigrant-status. Immigrant managers did not identify perceptual biases as factors that shape their unequal access to career development opportunities, suggesting a gap between experienced and perceived bias. SCM’s interdisciplinary theoretical implications are discussed contributing to diversity management practices in international contexts.
Language and education in transnational school careers: An introduction
Authors: Thoma Nadja , Schnitzer Anna , Putjata Galina
Published: June 2023

This special issue of the European Educational Research Journal (EERJ) addresses language and education in transnational school careers. The articles reflect an increased interest in transnationalization among members of the European Educational Research Association, Network on Language and Education (Network 31), and go back to a joint discussion in two sessions at the ECER 2019 Conference at the University of Hamburg. By focusing on research into multilingualism in transnational educational trajectories, the special issue links two research bodies that have so far existed separately: research on multilingualism and education, and research on transnational education. The contributions are situated in different national contexts and pursue a transnational perspective. They focus on different aspects in language-related transnational educational processes and center around challenges and possibilities that are encountered by individuals and families whose biographies are shaped by changes across national borders and educational systems. They also present and discuss different methodological frameworks and approaches, and a robust critique of monolingual educational institutions in Europe and beyond.
Experimental noise reduction (aeroacoustical enhancement) of a large diameter axial flow cooling fan through a reduction in blade tip clearance
Authors: Swanepoel Pieter Coenraad , Biedermann Till M , van der Spuy Sybrand J
Published: June 2023

Aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance experiments were carried out on four- and eight bladed, 1.542 m diameter, axial flow cooling fans, with constant solidity and hub-to-tip ratio. Tests were conducted in an ISO5801, Type A Fan Test facility. The tip gap (TG) was reduced from 4 mm (0.26% fan diameter) to 2 mm (0.13% fan diameter), to 0 mm, for both fan configurations. The noise profile of each fan configuration at the same TG over the whole volumetric flow rate spectrum was compared to each other. The 4 mm (0.26%) TG is used as a baseline to measure the nett increase or decrease in sound levels. Noise emissions decreased as the TG was reduced. It is discovered that the four bladed fan configuration had lower noise emissions than the eight bladed fan configuration at all blade tip clearances at design flow rate. It is concluded that reducing the TG and number of blades, at constant solidity, reduces sound emissions. The 0 mm TG for the four bladed fan produced the greatest reduction in noise emissions. An increase in fan total-to-static performance is observed when reducing the TG for both fan configurations.
Toward a practice-theoretical view of the situated nature of attention
Authors: Nicolini Davide , Mengis Jeanne
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we examine how a practice-theoretical perspective may complement and expand the central tenet of the attention-based view (ABV) that attention is contextually situated. We put forward three main arguments. First, the components that make a practice possible and that locate it in history and context (practice architecture) also prefigure a situated horizon of relevance and possibilities (pragmatic field of attention). Attention thus often befalls organizational members outside the realm of discursive consciousness as a consequence of being engaged in socio-material practices. Second, attention is situated at the crossroads of multiple practices, each with its practice architecture and local pragmatic field of attention. Organizational attention implies tensions, conflict, and contradictions and emerges from the interaction and negotiation of multiple individual and group pragmatic fields of attention. Finally, attention is situated in the temporal dynamics of sustaining and turning attention. This allows us to distinguish between inattention, dysfunctional distraction, and potentially productive attention turning. We argue that by focusing on the ordinary and routinized nature of attention, a theoretical practice view complements and enriches the ABV by offering a less voluntarist and top-down view and proposing a richer view of situatedness. A practice-theoretical approach also distributes attention among a broader set of elements, offering resources to theorize how these elements are connected. The approach also establishes a link between paying attention and caring, thus bringing emotions back into the study of organizational attention. In turn, the ABV helps the practice-theoretical perspective to recognize the central role of attention in organizational matters and the importance of engaging in full with the organizational unit of analysis when dealing with attention-related issues.
Physical activities in Hong Kong kindergartens: A content analysis of the Quality Review reports
Authors: Fan Thomas , Bautista Alfredo , Chan Derwin King Chung
Published: June 2023

In Hong Kong, the Education Bureau (EDB) is responsible for the quality assurance of kindergarten education services. EDB inspectors regularly conduct school visits to monitor kindergartens’ performance and publish a Quality Review (QR) report for each kindergarten. Given the limited research on pedagogical practices pertaining to physical activities in Hong Kong kindergartens, the current study analyzes the content concerning this learning area in the QR reports. We analyzed 164 QR reports (published between 2017 and 2020) according to four analytic dimensions: (1) Overall presence of content pertaining to physical activities; (2) References to specific forms of physical activities; (3) Positive feedback; and (4) Negative feedback and recommendations. The presence of physical activities in the QR reports was found to be low (5% on average). EDB inspectors alluded to physical activities generically, not specifying the motor skill(s) at hand. Both positive and negative feedback focused primarily on matters pertaining to the time of exposure to physical activities and teachers’ pedagogical quality. Our evidence suggests the existence of potential gaps between Hong Kong’s kindergarten policies and actual physical activity practices. Further professional development seems necessary to strengthen both teachers’ pedagogies and inspectors’ understandings of physical activities.
A Case of Complete Resolution of Cauda Equina Syndrome Caused by Extensive Iliocaval Thrombosis: The Role of Thrombolysis and Venous Stents
Authors: Bakas Jay M. , Bijdevaate Diederik C. , Lauw Mandy N. , van Veelen-Vincent Marie-Lise C. , van Rijn Marie Josee E.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

The cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare condition affecting less than 1 in 100,000 patients annually. Diagnosing CES is challenging because of its rare incidence, potentially subtle presentation, and various underlying etiologies. Vascular causes, such as inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis, are uncommon but should be considered, since timely recognition and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as a cause of CES can avoid irreversible neurological damage.

Case report:

A 30-year-old male presented with partial CES caused by nerve root compression due to venous congestion from an extensive iliocaval DVT. He completely recovered after thrombolysis and stenting of the IVC. His iliocaval tract remained patent until the last date of follow-up at 1 year without signs of post-thrombotic syndrome. Broad molecular, infectious, and hematological laboratory tests did not reveal any underlying disease for the thrombotic event, particularly no hereditary or acquired thrombophilia.

Conclusion:

Timely recognition of venous thrombosis as a cause of CES is essential. This is the first case report of CES caused by an extensive iliocaval DVT successfully treated with thrombolysis and venous stenting with good resolution of DVT and CES.

Clinical Impact

This case-report describes a patient with cauda equina syndrome resulting from an extensive iliocaval deep vein thrombosis due to an underlying stenosis of the inferior vena cava. Thrombolysis and venous stenting succesfully restored venous patency and thereby relieved symptoms and signs of cauda equina syndrome, in addition to (long-term) therapeutic dose anticoagulation. It is important to timely recognize deep vein thrombosis as a cause of cauda equina syndrome and to consider endovenous treatment in a specialized center.
Clinical Features and Computed Tomography Radiomics-Based Model for Predicting Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Focal Mass-Forming Pancreatitis
Authors: Ye Yingjian , Zhang Junyan , Song Ping , Qin Ping , Hu Yan , An Peng , Li Xiumei , Lin Yong , Wang Jinsong , Feng Guoyan
Published: June 2023

Objective: To establish a predictive model distinguishing focal mass-forming pancreatitis (FMFP) from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) based on computed tomography (CT) radiomics and clinical data. Methods: A total of 78 FMFP patients (FMFP group) and 120 PDAC patients (PDAC group) who were admitted to Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital and Xiangyang Central Hospital from February 2012 to May 2021 and were pathologically diagnosed were included in this study, and were input to set up the training set and test set at a ratio of 7:3. The 3Dslicer software was used to extract the radiomic features and radiomic scores (Radscores) of the 2 groups, and the clinical data (age, gender, etc), CT imaging features (lesion location, size, enhancement degree, vascular wrapping, etc) and CT radiomic features of the 2 groups were compared. Logistic regression was used to screen the independent risk factors of the 2 groups, and multiple prediction models (clinical imaging model, radiomics model, and combined model) were established. Then the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were conducted to compare the prediction performance and net benefit of the models. Results: The multivariate logistic regression results indicated that dilation of the main pancreatic duct, vascular wrapping, Radscore1 and Radscore2 were independent influencing factors for distinguishing FMFP from PDAC. In the training set, the combined model showed the best predictive performance (area under the ROC curve [AUC] 0.857, 95% CI [0.787-0.910]), significantly higher than the clinical imaging model (AUC 0.650, 95% CI [0.565–0.729]) and the radiomics model (AUC 0.812, 95% CI [0.759–0.890]). DCA confirmed that the combined model had the highest net benefit. These results were further validated by the test set. Conclusion: The combined model based on clinical–CT radiomics data can effectively identify FMFP and PDAC, providing a reference for clinical decision-making.
Patient-centric holistic integrative therapies as an adjuvant in checking the progression of chronic kidney disease: A case study
Authors: Silwal Karishma , Sharma Hemanshu , Tewani Gulab Rai , Nair Pradeep MK
Published: June 2023

Objective

Chronic kidney diseases (CKDs) characterized by progressive loss of kidney function impart significant burden on the patients. Besides physical disabilities, CKD affects the mental health and quality of life of the patients. Recent studies suggest the need for interdisciplinary patient-centric care in the management of CKD.

Methods

The present study introduced patient-centric holistic integrative therapies (YNBLI) in a 64-year-old female diagnosed with CKD in 2021, who presented with breathlessness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and anxiety. She is a known case of type 2 diabetes, hypertension and osteoarthritis of knee. She was advised for dialysis by her nephrologists’, however, she was reluctant to undergo dialysis due to anxiety about the side effects and lifelong dependency on dialysis. She initially underwent a 10-day YNBLI program at our inpatient setting followed by adhering to the home-based YNBLI for 16 weeks.

Results

She showed significant improvement in the kidney function, hemoglobin levels, quality of life and symptoms with no adverse events. The improvements were consistent throughout the 16 weeks after discharge.

Discussion

This study presents the effective use of patient-centric holistic integrative therapies (YNBLI) as an adjuvant in the management of CKD. Future studies are warranted to substantiate these findings.
Time management
Authors: Herron Dr Damien
Published: June 2023

In the UK, with a workforce crisis and fewer GPs, doctors are undertaking more work with complex patients. Accordingly, GPs’ time is an increasingly valuable resource for the NHS to deploy. So how should we manage this time to greatest effect? How can we master a burgeoning workload and maintain a work–life balance that avoids excessive stress and burnout? This article discusses ideas for the better management of GPs’ time and considers many aspects of primary care work which have their own extensive literature. As appropriate for an article on time management, I have tried to summarise and to deliberate with brevity. There are ideas for further reading in the references.
Content Analysis of Chenopodium formosanum (Djulis) Collected From Two Production Areas and Evaluation of Their Ability to Improve Insulin Resistance
Authors: Lin Hui-Li , Tseng Yu-Hsiu , Cheng Pei-Wen , Hao Chi-Long , Tu Yi-Chen , Yeh Bor-Chun , Shen Kuo-Ping
Published: June 2023

Background

This study compared the contents of extracts of Chenopodium formosanum (Djulis) originating from 2 aboriginal areas (Kaohsiung and Taitung, Taiwan) and evaluated their efficacy in ameliorating insulin resistance in vitro.

Methods

First, we analyzed the anti-oxidant compositions and activity, and α-glucosidase, α-amylase inhibitory effects of 2 Djulis and their extracts, and then evaluated the ability of the 2 extracts to ameliorate insulin resistance in HepG2 cell. To do this, we incubated the cells in DMEM medium spiked with insulin and TNF-α.

Results

Taitung Djulis extract (TDE) had higher concentrations of flavonoids and polyphenols than the Kaohsiung Djulis extract (KDE). However, KDE had a greater anti-oxidative effect and greater ability to inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory than TDE. In the cellular experiment, insulin promoted cell glucose uptake, and increased the protein expression of glucose transporter-2 (GLUT-2). However, when adding TNF-α with insulin, TNF-α worsened insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism. This might be associated with TNF-α induced mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) expression. Treating the insulin resistant cells with either TDE or KDE significantly reversed the effect of TNF-α on glucose uptake and related protein expressions.

Conclusion

Although both TDE and KDE reduced TNF-α-induced insulin resistance, KDE was found to be more potent. KDE might have more bioactivity or other undetected components that lead to more efficiency than TDE. Taken together, Djulis extract could potentially be used to control insulin resistance.
Women’s Perspectives on Paving a Career Path in International Education
Authors: Lambrianides Iryna
Published: June 2023

This article examines perspectives of 29 women regarding their personal and professional growth in the international education field. The information was drawn from the interviews conducted by volunteers of the Global Leadership League, a women-founded professional development organization advancing feminine leadership traits and skills, knowledge, and community. These Limelight series of interviews were analyzed to shed light on how women from different countries and career levels were able to launch and advance in their careers and grow as leaders in international education. The key learnings from their stories can support career development in other professions as well.
Clinical Problem Solving: A 38-year-Old Woman With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting With Headache, Nausea, and Vomiting
Authors: Silverman Andrew , Dugue Rachelle , George Paul M.
Published: June 2023

A 38-year-old woman with migraine headaches and systemic lupus erythematosus with recent cessation of her immunosuppressive therapy presents with prolonged headache and hypertensive emergency. Her examination is notable for a peripheral right facial palsy and stable malar rash. There are no signs of systemic infection nor systemic symptoms of a lupus flare. Initial CT head reveals bilateral hypodensities in the basal ganglia. Within 8 hours of presentation, she develops right hemiplegia and becomes encephalopathic. MRI shows multifocal acute infarcts (most notably in the left basal ganglia), enhancement of the right facial nerve, and multifocal vessel wall enhancement in the anterior and posterior circulation. We discuss the differential diagnosis, comprehensive workup, and subsequent treatment decisions in the management of this immunocompromised patient with encephalopathy, headache, and rapidly progressing focal neurologic deficits.
The effects of degassing, neutralization, and dewatering on the CMC-g-poly (acrylic acid-co-methacrylic acid) hydrogel
Authors: Pourkhatoun Mina , Kalantari Maryam , Kamyabi Ata , Moradi Ali
Published: June 2023

CMC-g-poly (acrylic acid-co-methacrylic acid) hydrogel was prepared by free radical polymerization of acrylic acid (AA) and methacrylic acid (MAA) onto carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) backbone using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator and N, N′-methylene bisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinker. For investigating the effects of before and after treatments of the hydrogel on the swelling equilibrium, gel fraction, and weight loss, 3 sets of experiments with 5 samples were designed and the effect of degassing (using N2), neutralization with NaOH 1 M, and two stages of dewatering with acetone and ethanol was studied. The results confirmed the positive effects of all the after-treatment stages. The final data indicate that sample (v) with N2 as reaction atmosphere, one neutralization stage, and two dewatering stages exhibit a maximum swelling of 167 g/g, maximum gel fraction of 61.4%, and also maximum weight loss of 38.6%. These outcomes show that these treatments exhibit hydrogel with a good swelling ratio which is desirable in smart delivery systems, healthcare, and biomedical applications. The optimized sample was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, and TGA too.
Implications of gender-affirming endocrine care for sports participation
Authors: Moreland Ethan , Cheung Ada S. , Hiam Danielle , Nolan Brendan J. , Landen Shanie , Jacques Macsue , Eynon Nir , Jones Patrice
Published: June 2023

Many transgender (trans) individuals utilize gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) to promote changes in secondary sex characteristics to affirm their gender. Participation rates of trans people in sport are exceedingly low, yet given high rates of depression and increased cardiovascular risk, the potential benefits of sports participation are great. In this review, we provide an overview of the evidence surrounding the effects of GAHT on multiple performance-related phenotypes, as well as current limitations. Whilst data is clear that there are differences between males and females, there is a lack of quality evidence assessing the impact of GAHT on athletic performance. Twelve months of GAHT leads to testosterone concentrations that align with reference ranges of the affirmed gender. Feminizing GAHT in trans women increases fat mass and decreases lean mass, with opposite effects observed in trans men with masculinizing GAHT. In trans men, an increase in muscle strength and athletic performance is observed. In trans women, muscle strength is shown to decrease or not change following 12 months of GAHT. Haemoglobin, a measure of oxygen transport, changes to that of the affirmed gender within 6 months of GAHT, with very limited data to suggest possible reductions in maximal oxygen uptake as a result of feminizing GAHT. Current limitations of this field include a lack of long-term studies, adequate group comparisons and adjustment for confounding factors (e.g. height and lean body mass), and small sample sizes. There also remains limited data on endurance, cardiac or respiratory function, with further longitudinal studies on GAHT needed to address current limitations and provide more robust data to inform inclusive and fair sporting programmes, policies and guidelines.
Minimal Kidney Disease Phenotype in Shroom3 Heterozygous Null Mice
Authors: Lawlor Allison , Cunanan Kristina , Cunanan Joanna , Paul Amy , Khalili Hadiseh , Ko Doyun , Khan Ahsan , Gros Robert , Drysdale Thomas , Bridgewater Darren
Published: June 2023

Background:

Shroom family member 3 (SHROOM3) encodes an actin-associated protein that regulates epithelial morphology during development. Several genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic variances primarily in the 5’ region of SHROOM3, associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and poor transplant outcomes. These genetic variants are associated with alterations in Shroom3 expression.

Objective:

Characterize the phenotypic abnormalities associated with reduced Shroom3 expression in postnatal day 3-, 1-month and 3-month-old mice.

Methods:

The Shroom3 protein expression pattern was determined by immunofluorescence. We generated Shroom3 heterozygous null mice ( Shroom3Gt/+) and performed comparative analyses with wild type littermates based on somatic and kidney growth, gross renal anatomy, renal histology, renal function at postnatal day 3, 1 month, and 3 months.

Results:

The Shroom3 protein expression localized to the apical regions of medullary and cortical tubular epithelium in postnatal wild type kidneys. Co-immunofluorescence studies confirmed protein expression localized to the apical side of the tubular epithelium in proximal convoluted tubules, distal convoluted tubules, and collecting ducts. While Shroom3 heterozygous null mice exhibited reduced Shroom3 protein expression, no differences in somatic and kidney growth were observed when compared to wild type mice. Although, rare cases of unilateral hypoplasia of the right kidney were observed at postnatal 1 month in Shroom3 heterozygotes. Yet renal histological analysis did not reveal any overt abnormalities in overall kidney structure or in glomerular and tubular organization in Shroom3 heterozygous null mice when compared to wild type mice. Analysis of the apical-basolateral orientation of the tubule epithelium demonstrated alterations in the proximal convoluted tubules and modest disorganization in the distal convoluted tubules at 3 months in Shroom3 heterozygotes. Additionally, these modest abnormalities were not accompanied by tubular injury or physiological defects in renal and cardiovascular function.

Conclusion:

Taken together, our results describe a mild kidney disease phenotype in adult Shroom3 heterozygous null mice, suggesting that Shroom3 expression and function may be required for proper structure and maintenance of the various tubular epithelial parenchyma of the kidney.
Benzodiazepine-related dementia risks and protopathic biases revealed by multiple-kernel learning with electronic medical records
Authors: Hayakawa Takashi , Nagashima Takuya , Akimoto Hayato , Minagawa Kimino , Takahashi Yasuo , Asai Satoshi
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To simultaneously estimate how the risk of incident dementia nonlinearly varies with the administration period and cumulative dose of benzodiazepines, the duration of disorders with an indication for benzodiazepines, and other potential confounders, with the goal of settling the controversy over the role of benzodiazepines in the development of dementia.

Methods

The classical hazard model was extended using the techniques of multiple-kernel learning. Regularised maximum-likelihood estimation, including determination of hyperparameter values with 10-fold cross-validation, bootstrap goodness-of-fit test, and bootstrap estimation of confidence intervals, was applied to cohorts retrospectively extracted from electronic medical records of our university hospitals between 1 November 2004 and 31 July 2020. The analysis was mainly focused on 8160 patients aged 40 or older with new onset of insomnia, affective disorders, or anxiety disorders, who were followed up for [Formula: see text] years.

Results

Besides previously reported risk associations, we detected significant nonlinear risk variations over 2–4 years attributable to the duration of insomnia and anxiety disorders, and to the administration period of short-acting benzodiazepines. After nonlinear adjustment for potential confounders, we observed no significant risk associations with long-term use of benzodiazepines.

Conclusions

The pattern of the detected nonlinear risk variations suggested reverse causation and confounding. Their putative bias effects over 2–4 years suggested similar biases in previously reported results. These results, together with the lack of significant risk associations with long-term use of benzodiazepines, suggested the need to reconsider previous results and methods for future analysis.
Social media use and COVID-19 vaccine status among a nationally representative population sample in Uganda
Authors: Greenleaf Abigail R , Croker-Benn Ashley , Aibo Dorothy , Biraro Sam , Mugisha Veronica , Kwizera Muhire H , Kabanda Richard , Justman Jessica , El-Sadr Wafaa M
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The effect of social media on COVID-19 vaccination behavior is sub-Saharan Africa is unclear. We conducted a study to determine social media use among a random nationally representative sample of adults in Uganda and assessed the association between recent social media use and COVID-19 vaccination uptake.

Methods

We used data from the 2020 general population survey in Uganda, the Population-based HIV Impact Assessment Survey, to identify a probability sample for a mobile phone survey and included nonphone owners in the phone survey by asking phone owners to pass the phone.

Results

In March 2022, of the 1022 survey participants, 213 (20%) did not own a mobile phone, 842 (80%) owned a mobile phone, of whom 199 (24%) indicated social media use, and 643 (76%) of whom did not use social media. Among all participants, the most frequent source of COVID-19 vaccine information was radio. Overall, 62% reported receiving the COVID-19 vaccination. The multivariable logistic regression model found that social media use was not associated with vaccination status.

Conclusion

Social media users in this population sample from Uganda—who were mainly young, urban residents with higher educational attainment—continue to utilize TV, radio and health care workers for public health messages, thus the Government of Uganda should continue to conduct public health communication through these mediums.
On Being Anxious About Digital Carbon Emissions
Authors: Pasek Anne
Published: June 2023

This essay examines how many scholars—including myself—are thinking and feeling about growing concerns about the climate impacts of digital networks. Whether in news headlines, civil society reports, or peer presentations, we increasingly encounter alarming figures that link streaming video and cloud storage practices with a potential carbon time bomb. As a result, an eclectic range of personal behaviors have blossomed that seek to acknowledge and respond to these potential harms, including digital land-energy acknowledgements, low-res aesthetics, conspicuous non-consumption, and media arts attempts to prefigure greener futures online. These digital environmental actors may lack a clear account of the relative impacts of a given gesture, but are nevertheless motivated by a strong sense of urgency and responsibility to modify the means by which they communicate online. I have been both a scholar of, and participant in, this panoply of low-carbon digital experiments. In tracing how my thinking has evolved, I seek to provide a self-reflexive assessment of what we might be responding to through these practices and what the role of climate anxiety is or should be in guiding such efforts. While remaining sympathetic to these behavioral shifts, I explore how an emphasis on discrete actions could risk misapprehending the material character of the digital systems we seek to change, overattributing both responsibility and agency to users. I conclude with some evolving criteria for assessing the environmental impacts of digital networks, as well as personal reflections on how the hermeneutics and practices of infrastructural care provides a productive alternative for thinking and action on the issue.
Learning From Our Mistakes: Corporate Front Groups and the Limits of Revelation in Climate Politics
Authors: Wood Tim
Published: June 2023

Fossil fuel companies have made major investments in mobilizing citizen support in recent decades, funding advocacy groups to stoke climate denial, doubt, and delay. Scholars and activists have tended to condemn these “front groups” as corporate mouthpieces, calling for new laws mandating disclosure of the financial relationship between companies and their political scions. Critiques like these tap into vital political impulses; however, they have failed to fully keep pace with evolving corporate strategies. Today many industry-backed groups openly identify their corporate sponsors, framing companies’ largesse as a means to amplify the voices of unionized pipefitters, local business leaders, and others who want to commend the positive impacts of fossil fuel production. Many so-called “front groups” are not hiding, which renders critical exposé moot. In response, this essay argues for the usefulness of investigating the social bonds and affective experiences of participants in pro-fossil fuel campaigns. The feelings of community, precarity, and risk that help these campaigns cohere can act as important sites of intervention for climate action. I suggest that scholars must consider the limitations of exposé and develop strategies to intercede in the more open ties between fossil fuel companies and their publics.
Confronting Institutional Violence in the Context of Climate Justice Politics
Authors: Pellow David N.
Published: June 2023

Over the last decade, I have been drawn toward the study of how climate change and other socioecological threats have intersected with the criminal legal system. In this essay, I consider how one case offers important challenges and possibilities for communicating dreams of radical environmental and climate justice in the context of the criminal legal system. Moreover, I reflect on my own direct involvement in these movements and struggles as an activist-scholar and how that form of praxis is always an opportunity to consider more effective ways of writing, speaking, sharing, and communicating the urgency of intersecting crises.
Issue Communication Network Dynamics in Connective Action: The Role of Non-Political Influencers and Regular Users
Authors: Tang Jack Lipei
Published: June 2023

Social media influencers (SMIs) have prevailed in online communication networks and can play key roles in connective action. However, how influencers connectively drive activism communication network is less clear. This study conceptualizes issue influencers as users who emerge as influential nodes in shaping the communication network in a contentious political issue niche. A new typology of influencers is proposed based on both issue and platform influence. Drawing on connective action theory and SMI studies, this study employed a Stochastic Actor-Oriented Model to examine how structural (endogenous) processes and influencer-level (exogenous) characteristics explain the communication network dynamics among issue influencers based on 200,000 Weibo posts from approximately 150,000 unique users about a gender policy discussion in China. The results show reciprocity, closure triplets, and influencer-level attributes including issue stance and influencer status significantly drive the longitudinal activism communication network. This study suggests that, when political influencers are absent, non-political influencers and regular users can effectively lead a contentious communication network on a platform with increasing censorship and suppression.
The Dynamics of Event-Based Political Influencers on Twitter: A Longitudinal Analysis of Influential Accounts During Chinese Political Events
Authors: Liang Fan , Lu Shuning
Published: June 2023

The study examines the dynamics and multiplicity of political influencers on Twitter by focusing on the discussion of six China-related political events between 2017 and 2020. We consider influence as communication practices aimed to shape the flow of online information, and political influencers as a small number of users who can disproportionately advance certain topics and direct audience attention. Our analysis of English and Chinese data ( N = 2,349,852) shows that political influencers engage in political events through two roles: initiators and amplifiers. While existing institutions such as news outlets are initiators who originate political information, individuals, trolls, and bots flood social media to share information provided by other users. Moreover, the results suggest that political influencers are largely event-dependent in the way that few accounts remain influential across different events, times, and language contexts. These findings advance our understanding of political influencers from a dynamic perspective.
A Rare Case of Giant Atypical Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Authors: Raja Javid , Datta Aduri Raja Suman , Niyogi Subhrashis Guha , Naganur Sanjeev , Mahajan Sachin
Published: June 2023

A broad window–like patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) arising from the transverse aortic arch proximal to the left subclavian artery and without any associated cardiac anomalies in a one-year-old child is rare. This case is reported for the atypical location and unusually large size of the PDA.
Percutaneous Curved Vertebroplasty and Bilateral-Pedicle-Approach Percutaneous Vertebroplasty in the Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Yanxing , Yu Zhentang , Yin Jianjian , Wang Hao , Xu Nanwei , Nong Luming , Jiang Yuqing
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of percutaneous curved vertebroplasty procedure (PCVP) and bilateral-pedicle-approach percutaneous vertebroplasty (bPVP) for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) through a systematic review and meta-analysis of the scientific literature.

Methods

A systematic review of the scientific literature in PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang and other databases was conducted in conjunction with different keywords. Nine studies were included; all but 3 were randomised controlled studies and all were prospective or retrospective cohort studies.

Results

We observed statistically significant differences between the PCVP group and the bPCVP group in terms of postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) scores (mean difference [MD]: −.08; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −.15 to .00), bone cement leakage rates (OR = .33; 95%CI: .20 to .54), bone cement injection (MD: −1.52; 95%CI: −1.58 to 1.45), operative times (MD: −16.69; 95%CI: −17.40 to −15.99) and intraoperative fluoroscopies (MD: −8.16; 95%CI: −9.56 to −6.67), with the PCVP group being more dominant. There were no statistical differences in postoperative Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores (MD: −.72; 95%CI: −2.11 to .67) and overall bone cement distribution rates (MD: 2.14; 95%CI: .99 to 4.65) between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Meta-analysis showed more favourable outcomes in the PCVP group compared to the bPVP group. PCVP might be effective and safe in the treatment of OVCFs because it relieves postoperative patient pain, reduces operative time and cement injection, and decreases the risk of cement leakage and radiation exposure to the surgeon and patient.
The Effects of the Ready for Success Classroom Program on Third-Grade Students’ Social/Emotional Skills and Competence
Authors: Chance Ellen , Villares Elizabeth , Brigman Greg , Mariani Melissa
Published: June 2023

This quasi-experimental, pre-post design study aimed to determine the effects of the Ready for Success classroom program (Brigman & Webb, 2012) on the social/emotional skills and competence of third-grade students. A multivariate analysis of covariance revealed a statistically significant difference at post-tests for third-grade students’ self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, responsible decision-making skills, and overall social/emotional competence as measured by the Devereux Student Strengths Assessment. This study supports school counselor-led social/emotional learning classroom programs to promote students’ social/emotional development in the school setting.
Why Do Financially Illiterate Students Perceive Lower Education Returns? Evidence From a Survey in Rural China
Authors: Yuan Cheng , Wang Xiaoxiao , Lin Li
Published: June 2023

This paper studies how students’ financial literacy affects their perceptions of returns to schooling and consequently their schooling decisions. We first propose a model of human capital accumulation where financially illiterate students exhibit a cognitive bias of “ironing heuristic.” With this decision heuristic, students tend to linearize the relationship between educational investments and future earnings, resulting in underestimated returns to education and inadequate study efforts. Using survey data from four rural middle schools in Southwest China, we then find a positive correlation between financial literacy and students’ perceived returns to education. In particular, the estimate of students’ perceived earnings function shows that its curvature significantly increases with students’ financial knowledge of compound interest, supporting the assumption in the theory. Our findings suggest that promoting students’ financial literacy may be an effective policy to motivate students to learn at school, especially in poor rural areas.

JEL: I26, G53 (Financial Literacy), D91, J24