bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MDMA-assisted therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder: A pooled analysis of ethnoracial differences in efficacy and safety from two Phase 2 open-label lead-in trials and a Phase 3 randomized, blinded placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ching Terence HW , Williams Monnica T , Wang Julie B , Jerome Lisa , Yazar-Klosinski Berra , Emerson Amy , Doblin Rick
Published: June 2022

Background:

Limited ethnoracial diversity in previous ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) trials for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has prompted questions concerning whether Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) also benefit from this treatment.

Methods:

Secondary analysis was conducted using a modified intent-to-treat sample pooled from two Phase 2 open-label trials and a Phase 3 randomized, blinded placebo-controlled trial to compare efficacy and safety of MDMA-AT for PTSD between BIPOC and non-Hispanic White participants. Four subgroups were of interest: MDMA-AT, BIPOC ( n = 20); MDMA-AT, non-Hispanic White ( n = 63); Placebo-assisted therapy (Placebo-AT), BIPOC ( n = 17); and Placebo-AT, non-Hispanic White ( n = 27). Planned comparisons tested subgroup differences in changes in Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) scores from baseline to primary endpoint, controlling for study type and baseline scores. Adverse events (AEs) on the day of (day 0) to 2 days post-dosing were reported for each subgroup.

Results:

In the MDMA-AT group, no significant ethnoracial difference in CAPS-5 change scores was observed. In the Placebo-AT group, BIPOC participants trended toward greater reductions in CAPS-5 scores than non-Hispanic Whites. Among non-Hispanic Whites, MDMA-AT was accompanied by significantly greater reductions in CAPS-5 scores than Placebo-AT. No treatment difference emerged among BIPOC participants. AEs were mostly rated as mild or moderate across subgroups.

Conclusions:

These findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy and safety of MDMA-AT for treating PTSD across ethnoracial groups. There was also a trend toward greater efficacy with Placebo-AT among BIPOC participants. There was an imbalance in subgroups, highlighting the need for culturally responsive recruitment strategies to diversify future studies.
Mutation spectrum associated with metastasis of advanced cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Song Hao , Huang Yao , Jiang Xiaoqing
Published: June 2022

Background

The mutations associated with metastasis in advanced-stage cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) have not been investigated.

Objective

To explore mutations in patients with advanced CCA and independent factors related to metastasis.

Methods

This retrospective study performed next-generation sequencing of tumor specimens from patients with advanced CCA treated between January 2017 and December 2019. Tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability, and programmed cell death ligand (PD-L)1 positivity were determined. Factors independently associated with metastasis were explored via logistic regression.

Results

Ninety-one patients were included in this study. TP53 mutation frequencies were significantly higher in extrahepatic than intrahepatic CCA, while ARID1A mutations were significantly more frequent in intrahepatic CCA. Mutation frequencies in six selected genes did not differ according to patient age or sex. SMAD4 mutations were significantly less frequent in stage IV cancer; ARID1A and PBRM1 mutation frequencies were significantly higher in TMB >10 tumors. PBRM1 mutation frequencies were significantly higher in PD-L1-positive tumors, but lower in patients with metastasis. Multivariable analysis showed that a history of biliary surgery, SMAD4 mutations, and PBRM1 mutations were independently associated with CCA metastasis.

Conclusions

A history of biliary surgery and mutations in SMAD4 and PBRM1 are independent protective factors for metastasis in patients with advanced CCA.
The prognostic value of aspartate beta-hydroxylase in early breast cancer
Authors: Barboro Paola , Rubagotti Alessandra , Poddine Silvia , Grillo Federica , Mastracci Luca , Boccardo Francesco
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Aspartate beta-hydroxylase (ASPH) is a transmembrane protein involved in cancer progression, which has been shown to imply a worse prognosis in several solid tumors. The aim of the present study was to further investigate the prognostic value of ASPH in early breast cancer.

Methods

ASPH expression was investigated through immunohistochemistry in a cohort of 153 breast cancer patients with long-term follow-up, and correlated with clinical–pathological features plus all-cause and breast-cancer-specific mortality. Appropriate statistics were utilized.

Results

ASPH negatively correlated with all-cause and breast-cancer-specific mortality.

Conclusions

The results of this cohort study support the prognostic value of ASPH in early breast cancer.
LINC01088 regulates the miR-95/LATS2 pathway through the ceRNA mechanism to inhibit the growth, invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells
Authors: Wen Zhuan , Li Yong , Tan Bibo , Chen Zihao , Zhao Qun , Tan Ming , Zhao Yijie , Xia Yuxiang , FanΔ Liqiao
Published: June 2022

Background: In gastric cancer, a malignant condition with a dismal prognosis, long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) play a significant regulatory role. They often compete with microRNAs through the ceRNA mechanism to affect the expression of target mRNA. However, the specific clinical value and mechanism of action of LncRNA in gastric cancer are still unclear. Methods: This study detected the expression and clinical value of LINC01088 in gastric cancer tissues. Furthermore, the biological functions of LINC01088 and the regulation mechanism of the miR-95/LATS2 pathway were explored.Results: LINC01088 and LATS2 mRNA expression decreased, and miR-95 increased in gastric cancer tissues. LINC01088 has an excellent positive correlation with LATS2 mRNA, which may be a ceRNA pair; LINC01088 has binding sites with miR-95. Gene interference tests on gastric cancer cell lines revealed that LINC01088 could prevent gastric cancer cells from proliferating, invading, and migrating. The function of LINC01088 is achieved by regulating the miR-95/LATS2 pathway through the ceRNA mechanism.Conclusion: The results of this study show that LINC01088 expression is significantly reduced in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines. LINC01088 inhibits gastric cancer cells’ proliferation, invasion, and migration by regulating the miR-95/LATS2 pathway via the ceRNA mechanism.
Investigation of deviation and surface topography in ultrasonic vibration-assisted milling
Authors: Bayat Masuod , Amini Saied
Published: June 2022

Thin-walled structures have many applications in the aerospace industry. An important feature of them is their high strength to weight. When milling the thin-walled part, the thickness decreases step by step by cutting, which causes the process to be complex and dependent on process parameters. In the present study, thin-walled aluminum structures are investigated using conventional and ultrasonic milling processes, and distortion, surface roughness, surface texture, and average thin-wall forces are also investigated. Therefore, 18 tests are performed on parts made of 7075T6 aluminum alloy using various feeds, spindle speeds, and machining modes. The results showed that the machining type and spindle speed had 47% and 33% effect on distortion, respectively. In addition, the results showed that by applying vibrations to the milling, the amount of distortion can be reduced by up to 30% and effectively optimized. This technique is suitable for manufacturing industries that require high dimensional accuracy. Also, the surface texture and burr formation are investigated. In particular, the surface roughness in ultrasonic milling decreased compared to conventional milling.
Magnetization of nanofluid due to convectively heated bended surface with space-dependent heat generation
Authors: Gangadhar K , Venkata Subba Rao M , Naga Bhargavi D , Chamkha Ali J
Published: June 2022

This research mainly focuses to study hydrothermal characteristics of magnetohydrodynamic nanofluid flow over a slippery permeable bended surface which is rotated in a circular cross-section with radius [Formula: see text]. In this nanofluid model, a nanoparticle concentration gradient is taken due to Brownian motion and thermophoretic force. Thermal conductivity and viscosity of nanofluid are a function of the local volume fraction of the nanoparticle. The system includes the most important parameters such as viscous dissipation and internal heat absorption (or) generation. For the supposed flow governing equations are formulated and then converted to a nonlinear system and resulted system is numerically evaluated with bvp4c in Matlab package. Multiple streamlines and three-dimensional graphics are provided to improve the results. The results obtained show that as the magnetic parameter values increase, the magnitude of the velocity field decreases and the pressure in the boundary layer decreases. Further, the parameters Brownian motion and thermophoresis increase the fluid temperature tends and the concentration should increase as the value of the slip parameter increases.
Towards democratic institutions: Tronto’s care ethics inspiring nursing actions in intensive care
Authors: Laurin Annie-Claude , Martin Patrick
Published: June 2022

Care as a concept has long been central to the nursing discipline, and care ethics have consequently found their place in nursing ethics discussions. This paper briefly revisits how care and care ethics have been theorized and applied in the discipline of nursing, with an emphasis on Tronto’s political view of care. Adding to the works of other nurse scholars, we consider that Tronto’s care ethics is useful to understand caring practices in a sociopolitical context. We also contend that this vision can be used specifically to politicize nurses, by encouraging them to think critically about the context in which they work and how they can participate to change the status quo, notably by prompting the democratization of care in institutional settings. We illustrate this by demonstrating how moral distress that can occur with aggressive or futile treatments in the intensive care unit can be reduced if nurses are systematically included in the decision-making process. By showing some ways in which nursing political actions can begin to change the status quo as it pertains to futile treatments at the end of life, we can help empower nurses to strive to be included in political spaces and voice their concerns to have their professional needs met.
Can nurses in clinical practice ascribe responsibility to intelligent robots?
Authors: Tabudlo Jerick , Kuan Letty , Garma Paul Froilan
Published: June 2022

Background

The twenty first- century marked the exponential growth in the use of intelligent robots and artificial intelligent in nursing compared to the previous decades. To the best of our knowledge, this article is first in responding to question, “Can nurses in clinical practice ascribe responsibility to intelligent robots and artificial intelligence when they commit errors?”.

Purpose

The objective of this article is to present two worldviews (anthropocentrism and biocentrism) in responding to the question at hand chosen based on the roles of the entities involved in the use of intelligent robots and artificial intelligence in nursing.

Methods

The development of this article was motivated by the immense discoveries, the current landscape, and nurses’ role in relation to advanced technologies in healthcare. The paper begins the discussion by situating the use of intelligent robots and artificial intelligence in nursing and healthcare and presenting its ethical and moral implications. Then, we presented the two worldviews: anthropocentrism and biocentrism which are used to respond to the task at hand.

Results

Anthropocentrism puts humans in the center in terms of moral standing and thus responsibility rests on them alone. Biocentrism declares that all creations deserve moral consideration and thus responsibility is equally allocated to all entities. Within these two worldviews, consensus development was offered to resolve these issues. Consensus provides clarity and democracy between and among the societies.

Conclusions

The findings of this article can be basis in (1) instituting mechanisms of robust peer review and a rigorous series of simulation before adopting or implementing intelligent robots and artificial intelligence in clinical practice; (2) education and training of highly specialized nurse practitioners who can be focal persons in responding to ethical and moral issues with regard to these advanced technologies; and (3) harmonization of robotics research, manufacturing, and clinical practice.
Compliance with the ethical competence framework by head nurses
Authors: Suvarnakich Photchana , Montrikul Na Ayudhaya Boonwadee
Published: June 2022

Background

Head nurses have duties in providing nursing care and ethical supervision to the nurses in the unit. Compliance with the ethical competence framework for head nurses is essential in fostering an ethical climate in the organization.

Objective

The objective of this research is to study the head nurses’ compliance with the ethical competence framework by the Thailand Nursing and Midwifery Council (TNMC).

Methods

The study is a qualitative research, using in-depth interviews conducted among 20 head nurses practicing in a super tertiary hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. The sample was selected using a criterion sampling method. The head nurses’ ethical experience relating to work practice was analyzed by thematic analysis.

Ethical considerations

The ethical approval of this study was obtained from the Committee for Research Ethics (Social Sciences), Mahidol University, and from the Institutional Review Board of the hospital in which the study was conducted.

Results

From the thematic analysis of the ethical experience practiced by the head nurses, 8 themes and 16 sub-themes were categorized across 5 ethical competencies based on the ethical competence framework by the TNMC. It was found that all the identified themes and sub-themes conformed to the ethical competence framework, and demonstrated the head nurses’ compliance with the framework.

Discussion

Head nurses’ ethical experience in practice conforms to the ethical competence framework by the TNMC. The framework that is based on the Code of conduct and the nursing culture that places the importance of the seniority system may facilitate the compliance with the ethical competence framework.

Conclusion

Head nurses demonstrated compliance with the ethical competence framework by the TNMC. Nevertheless, improvements could be done to the framework by adding details such as more examples of ethical decision-making scenarios, personnel’s rights, and social media usage guidelines.
The Decision to Go Public and Business Group Affiliation: Evidence from India
Authors: Sekhar C. Suja , Lukose P. J. Jijo
Published: June 2022

Using a comprehensive sample of Indian stock market listings from 2000 to 2014, we examine the effect of business group (BG) affiliation on the decision to go public. Supporting the internal capital markets hypothesis, we find that BG firms are less likely to go for initial public offerings (IPOs). Compared to stand-alone firms, BG firms that go public are older and less profitable. Further, this article elucidates the dynamics of the decision to go public within BGs (with multiple unlisted eligible affiliates in their portfolio) as extant models fail to explain the same adequately. We examine the relative importance of reputation, capital raising, and control considerations on the decision to go public. We find that the affiliate that invests in other group affiliates’ financial assets is more likely to be taken public. Affiliates that are net receivers of intragroup support are less likely to list. BG’s reputation has a positive impact on the choice of the affiliate to list.

JEL Classifications: G30, G32
The Clinical Relevance of a Socioecological Conceptualization of Self-Worth
Authors: Batchelder Abigail W. , Hagan Melissa J.
Published: June 2022

Low self-worth pervades discussions of psychopathology, is a central feature of many psychiatric disorders, and appears in conceptions of psychological distress in a range of cultural contexts . Explication of this aspect of self-evaluation offers clinical utility especially when adequate attention is paid to social and cultural aspects of the self. In this paper, we propose that refining the conceptualization of self-worth as felt perceptions of one’s mattering and deservingness of equity and psychological, social, and material resources offers a unique clinical utility. We present an argument for this definition of self-worth, building on existing literature, as a relativistic construct informed and reinforced by dynamic feedback from intrapersonal, interpersonal, sociocultural, and structural socioecological levels. To highlight that self-worth has been an implied but under-examined concept, we follow with a selective review of psychological and sociological perspectives of self-esteem and related constructs. We conclude with a discussion of our conceptualization’s implications for measurement and treatment, including the potential transdiagnostic utility of self-worth.
A Replication of “Trade Shocks and the Provision of Local Public Goods” (American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, 2017)
Authors: Wang Ziyuan , Spreen Thomas Luke , Yang Lang (Kate)
Published: June 2022

Feler and Senses assess the impact of trade shocks on local government finances in the United States. They find that increased import competition from China reduces housing prices and business activity in affected regions, which subsequently diminishes property and sales tax collections and the provision of local public goods. We replicate the authors’ published results and find that they are generally robust to alternative sample construction procedures and the removal of analytical weights. We also extend the authors’ methodology to evaluate the impact of trade shocks on local capital outlays, borrowing, and cash reserves. We find that the reduction in local expenditures resulting from Chinese trade exposure is driven in large part by decreased spending on fixed assets and that local governments facing greater import competition experience larger declines in cash and financial investments.
The Curse of Historic Resources
Authors: Sobel Russell S. , Clark J. R. , Sobel Reagan N.
Published: June 2022

There is a well-documented “natural resource curse” whereby the presence of immobile natural resources leads to weaker economic performance and a deterioration in the quality of economic institutions and governance. We propose the novel hypothesis that a similar curse exists for historic resources such as the Egyptian Pyramids, Roman Colosseum, and Gettysburg Battlefield. These captive wealth-producing resources are also immobile and cannot flee from oppressive or inefficient government policies, enabling governments to levy high taxes, impose burdensome regulations, and expropriate property for preservation. Historic resources are therefore also associated with weaker economic performance, increased government corruption, and lower economic freedom.
Factors Associated With Increased Alcohol Consumption During Physical and Social Distancing Measures During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a University in Brazil
Authors: Baptista Cremildo João , Oliveira de Arruda Guilherme , Rayzel Barroso Wilson , Soares de Souza Verusca
Published: June 2022

Objective:

To report alcohol consumption during the first month of social home-isolation and physical distancing measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in an public University in Mid-West Brazil.

Methods:

We designed an online observational study. Initial data of 2166 participants was obtained between April and May, 2020, less than a month after University’s measures of social distancing with remote work and classes. We used Poisson regression model with robust variance to identify the significant factors associated with self-reported increase in alcohol consumption during social and physical distancing measures.

Results:

Increased alcohol consumption during social and physical distancing was reported by 22.9% of 1371 alcohol drinkers. Factors associated with reporting increased alcoholic consumption during University’s physical and social distancing measures were: not professing any religion (1.52, 95% CI 1.25-1.83), having signs/symptom suggesting SARS-COV-2 infection (1.56, 95% CI 1.26-1.93), missing social interaction with peers carried out without any mediating technology (1.57, 95% CI 1.13-2.20), experiencing financial distress/hardship (1.25, 95% CI 1.02-1.54), perceiving duration of social isolation as long (1.62, 95% CI 1.10-2.41), reporting worsening of emotional/mental wellbeing (1.76, 95% CI 1.34-2.33), and previous psychological disorders (1.25, 95% CI 1.03-1.52).

Conclusions:

This study highlights several individual, psychological, and social determinants of increase in consumption of alcoholic beverages during physical and social distancing measures due to the pandemic and the results may reflect the presence of emotional changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It urges that sanitary authorities adopt measures to avoid excessive alcohol consumption during social distancing measures.
Statistical Tool to Address the Influence of Urbanization in Groundwater Quality in Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Antalyn Babu , Weerasinghe V.P.A
Published: June 2022

Management of groundwater quality is becoming a key feature of a sustainable future while implementing sustainable development goals which are given by United Nations. During past decades, rapid land-use changes, urbanization, and population expansion are highly influenced the groundwater quality. To provide policymakers and water managers with reliable information on groundwater quality is a challenge to achieving sustainable development goals in developing countries. Therefore, this study intended to assess the spatial variability of groundwater quality using selected physicochemical parameters at the 39 available groundwater wells during the southwest monsoon period. Spatial variability is explained in 13 Divisional Secretariat Division (DSD) levels in Colombo district due to easier interpretation and management purposes. Afterward, groundwater quality was related to urbanization using population density and built-up density in 13 DSD levels in Colombo district, Sri Lanka. PCA (Principal Component Analysis) shows that 08 DSD levels are urban and 05 DSD levels are rural. pH (3.22–6.73), COD (8.91–52.9 mg/L), BOD5 (1.2–9.9 mg/L), and DO (2.17–5.05 mg/L) showed deviations from the given standards by local authorities in Sri Lanka. A significant relationship ( p < .05) was found between urbanization and physicochemical parameters in regression analysis. The water quality index shows poor water quality indices in urban areas and vice versa in rural areas which is similar to the results obtained by statistical analysis. A sustainable urban development plan with continuous groundwater quality monitoring is necessary to protect groundwater resources in Sri Lanka.
Behavioral, Hormonal, and Serotonergic Responses to Different Restricted Feeding Schedules in Rats
Authors: Saeed Raheel , Mahmood Khalid , Ali Sadia Basharat , Haleem Darakhshan Jabeen
Published: June 2022

To determine the effect of long-term restricted feeding schedules on behavior, serotonergic responses, and neuro-endocrine functions, metabolism of serotonin (5-HT) in the striatum, expression of serotonin-1A (5-HT1A) auto-receptor in the raphe nuclei and circulating levels of leptin and corticosterone were determined in female Wistar rats kept on excessive food restriction schedule. Due to a role of dietary deficiency of tryptophan (Trp) in influencing serotonergic neurotransmission, circulating levels of Trp were also determined. Estimations were done in 2 different restricted feeding models: time-restricted feeding (TRF) and diet restricted (DR). TRF animals were given access to food ad libitum only for 2 hours/day. The DR animals were given a small calculated amount of food each day. We found that chronic food restriction for 5 weeks cause a significant decrease in the body weight and produced hyperactivity in both, TRF and DR animals. Levels of Trp were declined in circulation and in the striatum. Similarly, the levels of 5-HT and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) were decreased in the striatum. Also, the expression of 5-HT1A auto-receptor was declined in the raphe nuclei. These changes in 5-HT metabolism and 5-HT1A auto-receptor expression were more profound in DR animals as compare to TRF animals. Similarly, hypoleptinemia and increased corticosterone found in both models was higher in DR animals. Effect of dietary deficiency of Trp in the modulation of striatal 5-HT metabolism and its consequences on circulating leptin and corticosterone are discussed.
Examining the relationships between cyberbullying, relational victimization, and family support on depressive symptoms and substance use among adolescents
Authors: McField Ariel A , Lawrence Timothy I , Okoli Ifeoma C
Published: June 2022

The present study examined whether cyberbullying, relational victimization, and family support were associated with depressive symptoms and substance use among adolescents ( N = 1232). A path analysis revealed that cyberbullying, relational victimization, and family support were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Also, cyberbullying and relational victimization was positively related to substance use, whereas family support was not statistically predictive of substance use. This study highlights preventive interventions for cyberbullying, relational victimization, and family support in schools and families.
To take or not to take? An overview of the factors contributing to the non-take-up of public provisions
Authors: Janssens Julie , Van Mechelen Natascha
Published: June 2022

This article aims to provide an overview of the main mechanisms underlying the non-take-up of public provisions by bringing together insights from existing theoretical models and the large body of empirical evidence within Europe and the U.S. We draw on studies based on the rational choice model as well as on insights from psychology and behavioural economics. Whereas most studies are confined to the client level only to explain non-take-up, an important focus of attention here is the way policy design and administration can affect the uptake of public provisions, as well as the role the broader social context plays in understanding non-take-up. In this article, we bring different strands in the literature together and develop a theoretical framework which lists and links the various mechanisms at play. At the same time, we summarise most important empirical findings on the drivers of non-take-up, and focus on lessons from the literature regarding how policies could be redesigned to reduce non-take-up.
Exclusion of the non-English-speaking world from the scientific literature: Recommendations for change for addiction journals and publishers
Authors: Bahji Anees , Acion Laura , Laslett Anne-Marie , Adinoff Bryon
Published: June 2022

Background: While English is only the native language of 7.3% of the world's population and less than 20% can speak the language, nearly 75% of all scientific publications are English. Aim: To describe how and why scientific contributions from the non-English-speaking world have been excluded from addiction literature, and put forward suggestions for making this literature more accessible to the non-English-speaking population. Methods: A working group of the International Society of Addiction Journal Editors (ISAJE) conducted an iterative review of issues related to scientific publishing from the non-English-speaking world. Findings: We discuss several issues stemming from the predominance of English in the scientific addiction literature, including historical drivers, why this matters, and proposed solutions, focusing on the increased availability of translation services. Conclusion: The addition of non-English-speaking authors, editorial team members, and journals will increase the value, impact, and transparency of research findings and increase the accountability and inclusivity of scientific publications.
Proposed Mechanism of Adherence in Caregivers Providing Care to Adults Living with a Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Young Lufei , D’Aoust Rita F. , Budhathoki Chakra , Casida Jesus M.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The left ventricular assist device (VAD) is commonly used as the bridge-to-transplantation therapy for heart failure patients who are on waitlist of heart transplant. The caregivers’ adherence to the homecare regimen plays a vital role in patient outcomes. There is little evidence about the factors related to the caregiver adherence. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors influencing adherence in caring for patients living with a left ventricular device. Methods: The data were collected from 4 online caregiver support groups. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine associations between key variables. The structure equation modeling was used to identify the mediators of caregiver adherence. Results: A total of 96 participants’ data entered the final analysis. The average age of the participants was 49.8 (SD = 12.88) years, majority were white (84%), female (80%), and married (81%). Caregiver self-efficacy was positively related to their adherence (r = 0.460, P < 0.001). Caregiver knowledge did not mediate the effect of training on self-efficacy. Caregiver self-efficacy did not mediate the effect of knowledge on adherence. There was no interaction between practice hours and knowledge on adherence. Discussion: The findings suggest significant association between caregiver self-efficacy and adherence to left ventricular assist home-care regimens. Additional research is needed to identify factors influencing caregiver adherence, leading to the development of evidence-based practice guidelines and to improve the outcomes in advanced heart failure patients living with left VAD.
Service Deserts and Periphery Neighborhoods in Detroit
Authors: Hartwell Stephanie , Collins Toycia , Tarchick John T. , Mohsen Zaid
Published: June 2022

Before Covid-19, Downtown Detroit was enjoying an urban renaissance, but periphery neighborhoods that were lower priority for revitalization remained “service deserts.” These service deserts resulted in coping strategies, behavioral health outcomes, and neighbors becoming service providers. Residents of these areas also experienced increased vulnerability to the pandemic due to lack of access to information and pre-existing health conditions. This article recounts how residents experience living in a service desert and the subsequent impacts of Covid-19.
Can Conflict Create Good Community?
Authors: Perry Evelyn M.
Published: June 2022

While tensions and clashes between neighbors in diverse neighborhoods are often cause for concern, conflict can be constructive. Everyday conflicts can inspire collaboration, clarify shared expectations, and open opportunities for mutual criticism and dissent
Uneven Migration Enforcement
Authors: Pedroza Juan Manuel
Published: June 2022

In the US, the weight of immigration enforcement falls disproportionately on immigrants from Haiti and Central America. How can we tell? I use deportations and immigrant population data to compare which origin countries account for an unexpectedly high number of deportations – after taking into account their share of the nation’s unauthorized immigrant population. These data sources help us see whether deportations by nationality are uneven. In recent years, immigrants from select countries of origin (especially Haiti and Central America) are overrepresented among deportees when considering each origin country’s contribution to the United States’ unauthorized immigrant population.
Contact pressure analysis of pin-loaded lug with clearance
Authors: Li Yanmin , Huang Rui , Zhao Shusen , Wang Jingyu
Published: June 2022

In engineering design, none of the existing models for calculating the contact pressure in pin-loaded lug is fully compatible with the actual working conditions. In order to obtain a more accurate formula for calculating the maximum contact pressure in pin-loaded lug, after verifying the reliability of the finite element model with PRESCALE pressure measurement film, single-parameter and multi-parameter analysis of two types of factors affecting the contact pressure distribution in the compressive surface of the pin-loaded lug were conducted in the fully elastic state. The influence of the relevant design parameters of the pin-loaded lug on its maximum contact pressure was obtained, and a formula for calculating the maximum contact pressure of the pin-loaded lug based on the Hertz stress distribution model was introduced. It is verified by a large number of finite element samples that the predicted values of the formula are in good agreement with the finite element solutions in the range of common scales for engineering design, and have high accuracy, which can be used for engineering design reference.
The association between junior tennis players’ physical and cognitive attributes and groundstroke performance
Authors: Turner Mitchell , Russell Alyce , Turner Kate , Beranek Philipp , Joyce Christopher , McIntyre Fleur , Cruickshank Travis
Published: June 2022

Improving groundstroke velocity and accuracy is critical for tennis success. However, there is limited research available on the physical and cognitive attributes required for groundstroke performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the physical and cognitive characteristics and their association with groundstroke performance in junior tennis players. Thirty-four competitive junior tennis players, aged 12.59 ± 2.44 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. Cognitive tests assessing processing speed, complex attention, cognitive flexibility and problem-solving capacity and physical tests assessing flexibility, speed, agility, power, strength and anaerobic and aerobic capacity were performed. Tennis groundstroke performance was evaluated using a novel tennis groundstroke assessment. Tennis groundstroke performance was associated ( p < 0.05) with the number of hours a participant practices per week, their ranking, lower and upper body power, tennis agility test (decision and total time), linear speed, upper body strength and aerobic capacity. Specifically, an estimated 83.76% of the groundstroke velocity accuracy index variability was explained by grip strength in the dominant hand and ranking. An estimated 79.63% of the groundstroke velocity accuracy error index variability was explained by the number of hours a participant practices per week and their ranking. Our study showed an association between tennis groundstroke performance and physical but not cognitive outcomes in junior tennis players. Specific attention should be dedicated to developing the upper body strength of junior tennis players for improved groundstroke velocity and accuracy. This knowledge can assist tennis coaches in planning effective training sessions.
Expression of γ-globin genes in β-thalassemia patients treated with sirolimus: results from a pilot clinical trial (Sirthalaclin)
Authors: Zuccato Cristina , Cosenza Lucia Carmela , Zurlo Matteo , Gasparello Jessica , Papi Chiara , D’Aversa Elisabetta , Breveglieri Giulia , Lampronti Ilaria , Finotti Alessia , Borgatti Monica , Scapoli Chiara , Stievano Alice , Fortini Monica , Ramazzotti Eric , Marchetti Nicola , Prosdocimi Marco , Gamberini Maria Rita , Gambari Roberto
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

β-thalassemia is caused by autosomal mutations in the β-globin gene, which induce the absence or low-level synthesis of β-globin in erythroid cells. It is widely accepted that a high production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is beneficial for patients with β-thalassemia. Sirolimus, also known as rapamycin, is a lipophilic macrolide isolated from a strain of Streptomyces hygroscopicus that serves as a strong HbF inducer in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we report biochemical, molecular, and clinical results of a sirolimus-based NCT03877809 clinical trial (a personalized medicine approach for β-thalassemia transfusion-dependent patients: testing sirolimus in a first pilot clinical trial, Sirthalaclin).

Methods:

Accumulation of γ-globin mRNA was analyzed using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), while the hemoglobin pattern was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The immunophenotype was analyzed using a fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS), with antibodies against CD3, CD4, CD8, CD14, CD19, CD25 (for analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells), or CD71 and CD235a (for analysis of in vitro cultured erythroid precursors).

Results:

The results were obtained in eight patients with the β+/β+ and β+/β0 genotypes, who were treated with a starting dosage of 1 mg/day sirolimus for 24–48 weeks. The first finding of this study was that the expression of γ-globin mRNA increased in the blood and erythroid precursor cells isolated from β-thalassemia patients treated with low-dose sirolimus. This trial also led to the important finding that sirolimus influences erythropoiesis and reduces biochemical markers associated with ineffective erythropoiesis (excess free α-globin chains, bilirubin, soluble transferrin receptor, and ferritin). A decrease in the transfusion demand index was observed in most (7/8) of the patients. The drug was well tolerated, with minor effects on the immunophenotype, and an only side effect of frequently occurring stomatitis.

Conclusion:

The data obtained indicate that low doses of sirolimus modify hematopoiesis and induce increased expression of γ-globin genes in a subset of patients with β-thalassemia. Further clinical trials are warranted, possibly including testing of the drug in patients with less severe forms of the disease and exploring combination therapies.
A model for predicting high BMI of people living with HIV after receiving antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Qian Zhe , Wu Houji , Wu Yihua , Liao Wei , Yu Tao , Xu Xuwen , Peng Jie , Cai Shaohang
Published: June 2022

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of high body mass index (BMI) and normal weight people living with HIV after antiretroviral therapy (ART) and establish a model.

Methods:

A total of 290 people living with HIV after 1 year of ART treatment were enrolled and divided into two groups based on whether their BMI index was <24 or ⩾24 at week 48. The demographic, clinical data were collected and analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. A model was established and use to predict the occurrence of certain diseases.

Results:

A total of 290 people living with HIV were included in this study; 200 had a normal BMI (BMI < 24) and 90 were high BMI (BMI ⩾ 24) after 1-year ART. Their baseline characteristics were significantly different in relation to age ( p = 0.007), sex distribution ( p = 0.040), ART regimen ( p = 0.040), alanine aminotransferase levels ( p < 0.001), and three major serum lipid levels: triglycerides ( p < 0.001), cholesterol ( p = 0.011), and low-density lipoprotein ( p = 0.005). A multivariate logistic regression analysis resulted in the development of a model for the diagnosis of high BMI and hyperlipidemia. The model score is an independent risk factor for hyperlipidemia (odds ratio = 2.674, p = 0.001) and high BMI ( p < 0.001). The model score is significantly correlated with the controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) value ( r = 0.230, p < 0.001) and can be used to divide the severity of liver steatosis based on CAP value.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated a easy-to-use model to detect high BMI, hyperlipidemia, and liver steatosis in people living with HIV without risk factors for BMI changing at baseline after 1 year of ART treatment.
Prognostic implication of noninvasive right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery coupling in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Duan Anqi , Li Xin , Jin Qi , Zhang Yi , Zhao Zhihui , Zhao Qing , Yan Lu , Huang Zhihua , Hu Meixi , Liu Jiaran , An Chenhong , Ma Xiuping , Xiong Changming , Luo Qin , Liu Zhihong
Published: June 2022

Aims:

Impairment of right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery coupling (RV-PA coupling) is a major determinant of poor prognosis in patients with pulmonary hypertension. This study sought to evaluate the ability of an echo-derived metric of RV-PA coupling, the ratio between tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and to predict adverse clinical outcomes in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH).

Methods and results:

A total of 205 consecutive patients with confirmed CTEPH were retrospectively recruited from Fuwai Hospital between February 2016 and November 2020. Baseline echocardiography, right heart catheterization, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing were analyzed. Patients with lower TAPSE/PASP had a significantly compromised echocardiographic and hemodynamic status and exercise capacity at baseline. The TAPSE/PASP ratio correlated significantly with hemodynamic parameters, including pulmonary vascular resistance ( r = −0.48, p < 0.001) and pulmonary arterial compliance ( r = 0.45, p < 0.001). During a median period of 1-year follow-up, 63 (30.7%) patients experienced clinical worsening. The relationship between TAPSE/PASP and clinical worsening was assessed using different multivariate Cox regression models. After adjustment for a series of previously screened independent predictors, TAPSE/PASP remained significantly associated with outcomes, and the hazard ratio (per standard deviation increase) of the final model was 0.402.

Conclusion:

In patients with CTEPH, baseline RV-PA coupling measured as the TAPSE/PASP ratio is associated with disease severity and adverse outcomes. A low TAPSE/PASP identifies patients with a high risk of clinical deterioration, and this novel metric could be applicable for risk stratification in CTEPH.
Development of a Healthcare Information System for Community Care of Older Adults and Evaluation of Its Acceptance and Usability
Authors: Choi Kup-Sze , Chan Sze-Ho , Ho Cho-Lik , Matejak Marek
Published: June 2022

Objective

The need for health and social care for community-dwelling elderly is on the rise as the population ages. Through the provision of comprehensive services by multiple professionals in local communities, elderly people can receive continual care in a non-medical setting, which is favorable for early detection and intervention of potential problems. However, the lack of digitalization in primary care affects the effectiveness of the services and precludes full exploitation of the data. This study proposed an information system dedicated to caring for community-dwelling elderly people and investigated its acceptance and usability.

Methods

An information system was designed for elderly care centers in the community, where data generated during care delivery, involving socio-demographic data, bio-measurements and health assessments and questionnaires, were digitized and stored for information management and exchange. A study was conducted to evaluate the acceptance and usability of the system after routine use of 6 months. The users of the system at an elderly care center were recruited to respond to a technology acceptance questionnaire and a system usability questionnaire.

Results

The mean scores of the acceptance and usability questionnaires reached 5.1 out of the highest possible score of 7. The constructs of the acceptance questionnaire had good reliability. The social influence and facilitating conditions constructs had a significant correlation with the behavioral intention construct.

Conclusions

The proposed information system demonstrated good acceptance and usability, which supported the feasibility of implementing it in community care centers for older adults. Further research will be conducted to address the limitation of sample size by extending the system to other elderly care centers, forming a large user base for a more in-depth and comprehensive performance evaluation.
South Asian regionalism, social development and COVID-19: Lessons for SAARC from the EU's social model
Authors: Ahmed Zahid Shahab , Hussain Munir
Published: June 2022

There is little research done on the social agenda of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). As an analysis of the organization's social agenda is relevant to the challenges and opportunities offered by COVID-19, this article aims to draw lessons for SAARC from the development model of the European Union (EU). Erstwhile literature on SAARC has not compared its progress in terms of social development with that of the EU. Hence, this study aims to answer the following questions: What are the key differences between the social development approaches of the two organizations, and what can SAARC learn from the EU's social model? The analysis in this research is largely based on an extensive review of official documents from the EU and SAARC. This article argues that collective social development is in line with SAARC's functionalist approach that prioritizes cooperation in non-controversial areas like human security. Based on the comparative analysis, this article proposes a three-tier social development approach for comprehensive social development across South Asia. This study argues that, despite its socio-economic and political challenges, SAARC has a lot to gain from adopting the EU’s social model.
Levelling Up Organisational Learning Through Gamification: Based on Evidence from Public Sector Organisations in India
Authors: Nair Sridevi , Mathew Jain , T Ravikumar
Published: June 2022

The concept of sustainability brought into focus the need for research into how to measure and achieve sustainable growth. The triple bottom line framework and the resource-based view of the firm suggest the need for organisations to look beyond profits and take into consideration the needs and effectiveness of its workforce. Research suggests that an effective workforce can be achieved through constant learning and development. Organisations have also expressed the need for training techniques that are more effective than the traditional methods. Gamification has been proposed as one such technique, and in the current study, the researchers evaluate the effectiveness of gamification in organisational training. For the purpose of the current study, 120 participants were chosen from public sector organisations in India. This is primarily because the technology-enhanced training effectiveness model (TETEM) suggests that the effectiveness of gamification would depend on the culture of the organisation, and prior research has been based in privately owned firms. The findings are in line with the theory of gamified learning and suggest that participants of the gamified module reported higher levels of learning, reaction and learner motivation. Additionally, learner motivation was found to strengthen the impact of gamification on the learning and reaction.