bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Substance Use Screening Frequency Matters in Adult Primary Care
Authors: Drnach-Bonaventura Grace M. , Moore Debra W. , Scott Georgie L. , Cloutier Renee M. , Pringle Janice L.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Evidence-based early intervention practices, such as screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT), are recommended to identify unhealthy use and provide linkages to treatment to prevent substance use disorder. However, there is a lack of screening frequency recommendations. Pennsylvania (PA) SBIRT was a five-year initiative to implement SBIRT in primary care sites. This study evaluated the effects of screening policies in PA SBIRT on changes in substance use risk category over time.

Methods:

Quantitative data were obtained from seven primary care sites implementing SBIRT, with patients who were screened twice using the Drug Abuse Screening Test, US Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, or the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test and experienced any risk category change (n = 1,364). Patients were 49% male, 51% female, 81% White, and 14% Black. An intercept-only generalized estimating equation model tested whether category changes between screen one and screen two were statistically significant.

Results:

The average number of months between screenings for those experiencing a risk category change was 9.01 with a range of 0 to 46 months. There was a statistically significant change between screening one and screening two ( P > 0.001), with 44% undergoing a decrease in risk category and 56% undergoing an increase in risk category. Of those undergoing an increase in risk category, 91% moved from a negative/low risk category to a positive/higher risk category.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that frequent screening policies may improve identification of substance use risk category changes. The results act as a catalyst to further evaluate recommended screening intervals for detecting unhealthy substance use to increase identification and patient connection.
Recovery Support and Capacity Assessment Using the Calculating an Adequate System Tool: Two Case Studies
Authors: Green Brandn , Cao Qiuchang (Katy) , McCloskey Rebecca , Kim Frances
Published: December 2023

Background:

There are multiple, reliable, and authoritative federally managed data sources for understanding the incidence and prevalence of substance use disorder (SUD) and its sequela. However, there remains a gap in metrics representing the need and capacity for treatment and related supports within local communities. To address this challenge, Calculating an Adequate System Tool (CAST) was developed in 2016 by an interdisciplinary group of researchers at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality to assess the capacity of the SUD care system within a defined geographic area. It allows for risk assessment of local social and community determinants of substance abuse, as well as an assessment of local service needs across the continuum of SUD care.

Methods:

This article describes the application of the CAST to 2 counties in Ohio and 1 county in Montana. The purpose of using CAST for each area, results of the application, and experiences in utilizing the tool are described.

Results:

Application of the CAST demonstrated unique findings within each of the geographic areas. In Ohio, recovery support services were lacking in both counties assessed, while differences in crime rate and alcohol outlet density were attributed to varying rates of drug-related hospitalization. Notable findings in Montana included an oversaturation of coalitions focused on substance use prevention and gaps in the areas of detoxification services, partial day treatment, recovery residences, and peer support specialists.

Conclusions:

CAST is a useful tool for guiding decision-making relative to substance use care needs and capacities for local geographic areas. Findings should be interpreted thoughtfully and in the context of data availability. CAST continues to be enhanced and further expanded for assessing capacity of local and statewide substance use care systems.
High Interest in Injectable Opioid Agonist Treatment With Hydromorphone Among Urban Syringe Service Program Participants
Authors: Fox Aaron D. , Riback Lindsey , Perez-Correa Andres , Ohlendorf Eric , Ghiroli Megan , Behrends Czarina Navos , López-Castro Teresa
Published: December 2023

Background:

Injectable opioid agonist treatment with hydromorphone (iOAT-H) is effective for persons who inject drugs (PWID) with opioid use disorder (OUD) but remains unavailable in the United States. Our objective was to determine interest in iOAT-H among syringe services program (SSP) participants.

Methods:

We recruited PWID with OUD from SSPs in New York City. Interest in iOAT-H was assessed on a 4-point scale. We compared participants who were and were not interested in iOAT-H regarding sociodemographic characteristics and self-reported variables (past 30 days): heroin use, public injection practices, and participation in illegal activity other than drug possession. Participants reported their preferred OUD treatment and reasons for these preferences.

Results:

Of 108 participants, most were male (69%), Hispanic (68%), and median age was 42 years. The median number of prior OUD treatment episodes was 6 (interquartile range: 2-12). Most (65%) were interested in iOAT-H. Interested participants (vs not interested) reported, over the prior 30 days, greater heroin use days (mean, 26.4 vs 22.3), injecting in public more times (median, 15 vs 6), and a higher percentage having participated in illegal activity (40% vs 16%). Preferences for OUD treatment were: iOAT-H (43%), methadone (39%), and buprenorphine (9%). Participants who preferred iOAT-H to conventional OUD treatments reported preferring injection as a route of administration and that available OUD treatments helped them insufficiently.

Conclusions:

SSP participants with OUD reported high interest in iOAT-H. Participants had attempted conventional treatments but still used heroin almost daily. We identified PWID at risk for opioid-related harms who potentially could benefit from iOAT-H.
In Support of Community Drug Checking Programs: Position Statement of AMERSA, Inc. (Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance use and Addiction)
Authors: Hill Katherine , Dunham Katherine , Brokos Zoe , Butner Jenna L. , Hull Ilana , Sue Kimberly L. , Li Li , Thakarar Kinna
Published: December 2023

Background:

Position statements clarify key issues that are in alignment with the vision, mission, and values of the AMERSA, Inc. (Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance use and Addiction). This Position Statement, endorsed by the AMERSA Board of Directors on October 3, 2023, amplifies the position of the organization, guides their activities, and informs the public and policymakers on the organization’s stance on this issue.

Issue:

The unregulated drug supply in the United States evolves constantly, leaving those who use drugs potentially unaware of new adulterants in their drugs. Not knowing that information can leave people vulnerable to serious adverse events such as fatal overdoses, wounds, and other health consequences. Without real-time data on the composition of drugs available in a community, healthcare providers and public health practitioners are left with insufficient data, making it increasingly difficult to know how to best serve people who use drugs. In this context, community-based drug checking has become recognized as an important harm reduction strategy with the potential to provide those who use drugs with more information about their supply.

Recommendations:

It is imperative to expand funding and increase access to drug checking programs in communities across the United States. Key policy changes, such as those related to decriminalizing drug and drug paraphernalia possession, are needed to increase the utilization of drug checking programs. Protection of persons who use drugs through harm reduction strategies, including drug checking programs needs to be widely available and accessible.
Association between elevated white blood cell counts and thrombotic events in polycythemia vera: analysis from REVEAL
Authors: Gerds Aaron T. , Mesa Ruben , Burke John M. , Grunwald Michael R. , Stein Brady L. , Squier Peg , Yu Jingbo , Hamer-Maansson J. E. , Oh Stephen T.
Published: December 2023

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by clonal proliferation of hematopoietic progenitor cells and is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events (TEs). Established risk factors for TEs in patients with PV include advanced age, TE history, and elevated hematocrit. Although an association of TE with elevated white blood cell (WBC) counts has been suggested by retrospective studies, this relationship needs further validation. The prospective observational study of patients with polycythemia vera in US clinical practices (REVEAL) study collected prospective clinical data from 2510 patients with PV with a median follow-up of 44.7 months (range, 2-59 months) from enrollment. Using time-dependent covariate Cox proportional hazards models, blood counts were individually modeled with sex, age, disease duration, TE history at enrollment (baseline covariates), and treatment (time-dependent covariate). Analysis of 2271 participants identified 142 TEs in 106 patients. Significant associations with initial TE occurrence during the study period were observed for hematocrit level >45% (hazard ratio [HR], 1.84; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.234-2.749; P = .0028) and WBCs >11 × 109/L (HR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.598-3.465; P < .0001). Elevated WBC count was significantly associated with initial TE occurrence in both low-risk and high-risk PV. When hematocrit was controlled at ≤45%, WBC count >12 × 109/L was significantly associated with TE occurrence (HR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.066-3.554; P = .0300). The results support incorporation of WBC count into PV risk stratification and studies of treatment strategies, and indicate the importance of controlling both hematocrit and WBC count in disease management. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT02252159.
Targeting factor XI and factor XIa to prevent thrombosis
Authors: Gailani David , Gruber Andras
Published: December 2023

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) that inhibit the coagulation proteases thrombin or factor Xa (FXa) have replaced warfarin and other vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for most indications requiring long-term anticoagulation. In many clinical situations, DOACs are as effective as VKAs, cause less bleeding, and do not require laboratory monitoring. However, because DOACs target proteases that are required for hemostasis, their use increases the risk of serious bleeding. Concerns over therapy-related bleeding undoubtedly contribute to undertreatment of many patients who would benefit from anticoagulation therapy. There is considerable interest in the plasma zymogen factor XI (FXI) and its protease form factor XIa (FXIa) as drug targets for treating and preventing thrombosis. Laboratory and epidemiologic studies support the conclusion that FXI contributes to venous and arterial thrombosis. Based on 70 years of clinical observations of patients lacking FXI, it is anticipated that drugs targeting this protein will cause less severe bleeding than warfarin or DOACs. In phase 2 studies, drugs that inhibit FXI or FXIa prevent venous thromboembolism after total knee arthroplasty as well as, or better than, low molecular weight heparin. Patients with heart disease on FXI or FXIa inhibitors experienced less bleeding than patients taking DOACs. Based on these early results, phase 3 trials have been initiated that compare drugs targeting FXI and FXIa to standard treatments or placebo. Here, we review the contributions of FXI to normal and abnormal coagulation and discuss results from preclinical, nonclinical, and clinical studies of FXI and FXIa inhibitors.
Clearance of VWF by hepatic macrophages is critical for the protective effect of ADAMTS13 in sickle cell anemia mice
Authors: Shi Huiping , Gao Liang , Kirby Nicole , Shao Bojing , Shan Xindi , Kudo Mariko , Silasi Robert , McDaniel John Michael , Zhou Meixiang , McGee Samuel , Jing Wei , Lupu Florea , Cleuren Audrey , George James N. , Xia Lijun
Published: December 2023

Although it is caused by a single-nucleotide mutation in the β-globin gene, sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a systemic disease with complex, incompletely elucidated pathologies. The mononuclear phagocyte system plays critical roles in SCA pathophysiology. However, how heterogeneous populations of hepatic macrophages contribute to SCA remains unclear. Using a combination of single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics via multiplexed error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization, we identified distinct macrophage populations with diversified origins and biological functions in SCA mouse liver. We previously found that administering the von Willebrand factor (VWF)–cleaving protease ADAMTS13 alleviated vaso-occlusive episode in mice with SCA. Here, we discovered that the ADAMTS13-cleaved VWF was cleared from the circulation by a Clec4f+Marcohigh macrophage subset in a desialylation-dependent manner in the liver. In addition, sickle erythrocytes were phagocytized predominantly by Clec4f+Marcohigh macrophages. Depletion of macrophages not only abolished the protective effect of ADAMTS13 but exacerbated vaso-occlusive episode in mice with SCA. Furthermore, promoting macrophage-mediated VWF clearance reduced vaso-occlusion in SCA mice. Our study demonstrates that hepatic macrophages are important in the pathogenesis of SCA, and efficient clearance of VWF by hepatic macrophages is critical for the protective effect of ADAMTS13 in SCA mice.
Type 1 VWD classification revisited: novel insights from combined analysis of the LoVIC and WiN studies
Authors: Atiq Ferdows , Blok Robin , van Kwawegen Calvin B. , Doherty Dearbhla , Lavin Michelle , van der Bom Johanna G. , O'Connell Niamh M. , de Meris Joke , Ryan Kevin , Schols Saskia E. M. , Byrne Mary , Heubel-Moenen Floor C. J. I. , van Galen Karin P. M. , Preston Roger J. S. , Cnossen Marjon H. , Fijnvandraat Karin , Baker Ross I. , Meijer Karina , James Paula , Di Paola Jorge , Eikenboom Jeroen , Leebeek Frank W. G. , O'Donnell James S.
Published: December 2023

There is significant ongoing debate regarding type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD) defintion. Previous guidelines recommended patients with von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels <30 IU/dL be diagnosed type 1 VWD, whereas patients with significant bleeding and VWF levels from 30 to 50 IU/dL be diagnosed with low VWF. To elucidate the relationship between type 1 VWD and low VWF in the context of age-induced increases in VWF levels, we combined data sets from 2 national cohort studies: 162 patients with low VWF from the Low VWF in Ireland Cohort (LoVIC) and 403 patients with type 1 VWD from the Willebrand in The Netherlands (WiN) studies. In 47% of type 1 VWD participants, VWF levels remained <30 IU/dL despite increasing age. Conversely, VWF levels increased to the low VWF range (30-50 IU/dL) in 30% and normalized (>50 IU/dL) in 23% of type 1 VWD cases. Crucially, absolute VWF antigen (VWF:Ag) levels and increase of VWF:Ag per year overlapped between low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD participants. Moreover, multiple regression analysis demonstrated that VWF:Ag levels in low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD patients would not have been different had they been diagnosed at the same age (β = 0.00; 95% confidence interval, −0.03 to 0.04). Consistently, no difference was found in the prevalence of VWF sequence variants; factor VIII activity/VWF:Ag or VWF propeptide/VWF:Ag ratios; or desmopressin responses between low VWF and normalized type 1 VWD patients. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that low VWF does not constitute a discrete clinical or pathological entity. Rather, it is part of an age-dependent type 1 VWD evolving phenotype. Collectively, these data have important implications for future VWD classification criteria.
Codon usage and evolutionary dynamics of genetic diversity of novel imported porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in China
Authors: Xie Chang-zhan , Zhang Ping , Tao Yi-mo , Wang Qi , Jin Ning-yi , Lu Hui-jun
Published: December 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is a problem that has significant economic impact on the global pig industry. In recent years, there has been an increased importation of pork into China, contributing to the emergence of novely imported porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) sub-types. Nevertheless, codon usage patterns and their effects on the evolution and adaptation of these new input PRRSV sub-types in hosts remain elusive. To investigate this, we employed a Bayesian approach to analyze two novel imported PRRSV sub-types, namely, NADC30-like and NADC34-like viruses. These sub-types have different codon preferences. Besides, the Effective Number of Codon (ENC) analysis revealed that both NADC30-like and NADC34-like fall within the expected curve distribution, describing a balanced codon usage for both NADC30-like and NADC34-like virus. Based on the Codon Adaptation Index (CAI), NADC30-like showed the highest similarity to the host, aligning with the main prevalence trend of the host. In contrast, NADC34-like exhibited the highest frequency of optimal codon usage; this analysis is based on Frequency of Optimal Codons (FOP). Moreover, the Relative Codon Deoptimization Index (RCDI) indicates that NADC30-like sub-types have a greater degree of inverse optimization sub-type. These findings suggest that mutational pressure affects codon usage preferences of genes in newly imported PRRSV, and that natural selection plays a vital role in determining PRRSV gene codon preferences. Our study provides new insights into the disease, origin, evolutionary patterns, and host adaptation of these newly imported PRRSV sub-types in China. It also contributes to the development of theoretical frameworks for studying genetics and the evolution of PRRSV.
Preparation of a highly specific and sensitive monoclonal antibody against tilmicosin and its application in lateral flow immunoassay
Authors: Wang Youyi , Li Qingyue , Liang Guanghua , Li Huayun , Li Zizhe , Gao Tian , Song Lianjun , Huang Xianqing , Peng Dapeng , Zhang Xiya
Published: December 2023

To reduce the false positive results caused by cross reactivity of the antibodies with other structural analogues, it is crucial to prepare a high specificity and sensitivity antibody against target for developing an accurate immunoassay. In this study, tilmicosin (TM) was selected as a model molecule. Firstly, two-dimensional similarity, electrostatic potential energy, mulliken atomic charges and overlapping of different haptens with TM were calculated using Gaussian 09W and Discovery studio, and the newly designed TM-HS was selected as the optimal hapten. Furthermore, a monoclonal antibody (mAb 12C8) was produced with the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.36 ng/mL, and negligible cross-reactivity (CR) with other antibiotics. Finally, a lateral flow immunoassay (LFA) for the detection of TM based on amorphous carbon nanoparticles (ACNPs) labeled mAb 12C8 was developed by the reflectance value under natural light. The recoveries of TM ranged from 83.18% to 103.25% with a coefficient of variation (CV) < 12.47%. The results showed that the cut-off value of TM in milk samples was 1 ng/mL, and the limits of detection (LODs) for chicken muscle, bovine muscle, porcine muscle and porcine liver samples were 5.23, 5.98, 6.85 and 7.31 μg/kg, respectively. In addition, 40 real samples were tested by the LFA, and the detection results were consisted with that of high-performance liquid chromatography-UV detector (HPLC–UV). Those results indicated that the developed LFA is an accurate and useful tool for on-site screening of TM in milk and animal tissues.
Cushing Syndrome Is Associated With Gut Microbial Dysbiosis and Cortisol-Degrading Bacteria
Authors: Zhang Minchun , Shi Zhun , Wu Chao , Yang Fangming , Su Tingwei , Jing Xiaohuan , Shi Juan , Ren Huahui , Jiang Lei , Jiang Yiran , Zhang Cui , Zhou Wenzhong , Zhou Yijing , Wu Kui , Zheng Sichang , Zhong Xu , Wu Luming , Gu Weiqiong , Hong Jie , Wang Jiqiu , Ning Guang , Liu Ruixin , Zhong Huanzi , Zhou Weiwei , Wang Weiqing
Published: December 2023

Context

Cushing syndrome (CS) is a severe endocrine disease characterized by excessive secretion of cortisol with multiple metabolic disorders. While gut microbial dysbiosis plays a vital role in metabolic disorders, the role of gut microbiota in CS remains unclear.

Objective

The objective of this work is to examine the alteration of gut microbiota in patients with CS.

Methods

We performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing of fecal samples from 78 patients with CS and 78 healthy controls matched for age and body mass index. Furthermore, we verify the cortisol degradation capacity of Ruminococcus gnavus in vitro and identify the potential metabolite by LC-MC/MS.

Results

We observed significant differences in microbial composition between CS and controls in both sexes, with CS showing reduced Bacteroidetes (Bacteroides vulgatus) and elevated Firmicutes (Erysipelotrichaceae_bacterium_6_1_45) and Proteobacteria (Enterobacter cloacae). Despite distinct causes of hypercortisolism in ACTH-dependent and ACTH-independent CS, we found no significant differences in metabolic profiles or gut microbiota between the 2 subgroups. Furthermore, we identified a group of gut species, including R. gnavus, that were positively correlated with cortisol levels in CS. These bacteria were found to harbor cortisol-degrading desAB genes and were consistently enriched in CS. Moreover, we demonstrated the efficient capacity of R. gnavus to degrade cortisol to 11-oxygenated androgens in vitro.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of gut microbial dysbiosis in patients with CS and identifies a group of CS-enriched bacteria capable of degrading cortisol. These findings highlight the potential role of gut microbiota in regulating host steroid hormone levels, and consequently host health.
Visual Hybrids as Constitutive Rhetorical Acts: Rhetorical Interplay between Unity and Difference
Authors: Aczél Petra
Published: December 2023

Rhetoric is broadly referred to as the theory and practice of suasory communication enabling humans to participate actively in public. Although traditionally viewed as strongly tied with exclusively verbal persuasion, rhetoric has always extended beyond this limitation. Semiforgotten elements of the ancient faculty prove that rhetoric requires creative visual imagination from both parties (orator and audience) and that the practice emanates from and embeds in visuospatial, sensual experiences. These visual features are combined with the verbal in rhetorical practice resulting in a multidimensional—hybrid—discourse, the main function of which is persuasion. In this hybridity of codes and modes, the primary movement in the persuasive act is connection. This connection relates the person to the world, human imagination to articulation, thoughts to images, and words to pictures. By means of this connection persuasion becomes identification, a constitutive act enhancing the unity of different entities (either human or material).

The present essay conceives of rhetoric, and especially visual rhetoric, as a suitable framework to interpret visual hybrids. Here, visual hybrids are understood to be entities that enact the internal rhetorical interplay between difference and unity represented by visual elements and motifs. The article first investigates the concept of ingenium and multimodality to introduce general rhetoric as a holistic framework of human experience and expression that is inherently visual and sensual. Then the paradigms of visual rhetoric are outlined to propose a possible classification of visual hybrids, illustrated by contemporary examples from art and advertising.
Aging disrupts spatiotemporal regulation of germline stem cells and niche integrity
Authors: Urman Michelle A. , John Nimmy S. , Jung Tyler , Lee ChangHwan
Published: December 2023

A major factor driving stem cell decline is stem cell niche aging, but its molecular mechanism remains elusive. We use the Caenorhabditis elegans distal tip cell (DTC), the mesenchymal niche that employs Notch signaling to regulate germline stem cells (GSCs), as an in vivo niche aging model and delineate the molecular details of the DTC/niche aging process. Here, we demonstrate that a drastic decrease in C. elegans germline fecundity, which begins even in early adulthood, is mainly due to an age-induced disruption in spatial regulation of Notch-dependent transcription in the germline combined with a moderate reduction in Notch transcription at both tissue and cellular levels. Consequently, the Notch-responsive GSC pool shifts from the distal end of the gonad to a more proximal region, disrupting the distal-to-proximal germline polarity. We find that this GSC pool shift is due to a dislocation of the DTC/niche nucleus, which is associated with age-induced changes in the structure and morphology of the DTC/niche. Our findings reveal a critical link between physiological changes in the aging niche, their consequences in stem cell regulation, and germline tissue functions.
Factors Affecting Recurrence and Survival for Patients with High-Risk Stage II Melanoma
Authors: Dedeilia Aikaterini , Lwin Thinzar , Li Siming , Tarantino Giuseppe , Tunsiricharoengul Sasha , Lawless Aleigha , Sharova Tatyana , Liu David , Boland Genevieve M. , Cohen Sonia
Published: December 2023

Background

In the current era of effective adjuvant therapies and de-escalation of surgery, distinguishing which patients with high-risk stage II melanoma are at increased risk of recurrence after excision of the primary lesion is essential to determining appropriate treatment and surveillance plans.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study analyzed patients with stage IIB or IIC melanoma. Demographic and tumor data were collected, and genomic analysis of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples was performed via an internal next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform (SNaPshot). The end points examined were relapse-free survival (RFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS), and melanoma-specific survival (MSS). Uni- and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to calculate the hazard ratios.

Results

The study included 92 patients with a median age of 69 years and a male/female ratio of 2:1. A Breslow depth greater than 4 mm, a higher mitotic rate, an advanced T stage, and a KIT mutation had a negative impact on RFS. A primary lesion in the head and neck, a mitotic rate exceeding 10 mitoses per mm2, a CDH1 mutation, or a KIT mutation was significantly associated with a shorter DMFS. Overall survival was significantly lower with older age at diagnosis and a higher mitotic rate. An older age at diagnosis also had a negative impact on MSS.

Conclusion

Traditional histopathologic factors and specific tumor mutations displayed a significant correlation with disease recurrence and survival for patients with high-risk stage II melanoma. This study supported the use of genomic testing of high-risk stage II melanomas for prognostic prediction and risk stratification.
Effect of Yogasana and Pranayama on cardiopulmonary functions on sawmill, sugar cane and bidi workers in the rural sector
Authors: Nisargandha Milind Abhimanyu , Parwe Shweta Dadarao , Kuchewar Vaishali Vasant , Saraf Chhaya Anil
Published: December 2023

Background The rural sector is an essential component of the country’s economy, and the economy is based on the large number of workers involved in various activities such as agriculture, forestry, and small and large-scale industries. People work in different industries like sawmills, sugarcane and Bidi factories for their livelihoods. These workers, among other factory workers, are frequently exposed to hazardous working conditions that can have a negative impact on their health. These workers are at high risk of developing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to prolonged exposure to dust, smoke and other harmful substances. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of yoga and pranayama on cardiopulmonary function in the sawmill, sugar cane and Bidi workers in the rural sectors. Methods 348 workers will be randomly assigned to the Yogasana and Pranayama group or the control group. The intervention of the Yogasana and Pranayama group will be planned for a 20-week program, while the control group will be continuing their as-usual activities. Cardiopulmonary function will be assessed for baseline parameters, and after the intervention has been completed similar parameters will be recorded. Conclusions It could be concluded that the Yogasana and Pranayama may be effective for improving the cardiopulmonary function in sawmill, sugar cane, and Bidi workers in rural sectors. Registration CTRI/2023/07/055733.
Case Report: Unusual pulmonary involvement in a patient with Costello syndrome
Authors: Kwas Hamida , Sabrine Majdoub Fehri , Tasnim Znegui
Published: December 2023

Costello syndrome (CS) is a rare disease with intellectual disability, characterized by failure to thrive, short stature, joint laxity, loose soft skin, and distinctive facial features. This disease is caused by heterozygous germline mutations in the HRAS proto-oncogene. Cardiac and neurological abnormalities are the most common. Cardiovascular manifestations include valvular pulmonary stenosis, arrhythmia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Neurological manifestations are dominated by hydrocephalus, seizures, and tethered spinal cord. Respiratory system manifestations have been reported in people with CS, but a full description of the different lung involvement and respiratory symptoms in these patients is not available. We report the case of a 19-year-old non-smoking man, followed for a Costello syndrome since the age of 8 months, who complained of exertional dyspnea and chest pain for over 18 months. The chest CT scan showed bullous emphysema of the left lung with a giant bulla in the left upper lobe measured than 20 cm long axis responsible for passive atelectasis. Pulmonary function tests revealed a severe non-reversible obstructive ventilatory defect. Faced with the worsening of his dyspnea despite treatment with bronchodilators and recurrent respiratory infections, it was decided to surgically remove the the giant emphysematous bulla. After bullectomy, a clinical and functional respiratory improvement was noted.
The genome sequence of the Rosy Feather Star, Antedon bifida (Pennant, 1777)
Authors: Bishop John , Wood Christine A. , Uhl Rebekka ,   Marine Biological Association Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: December 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual Antedon bifida (the Rosy Feather Star; Echinodermata; Crinoidea; Comatulida; Antedonidae). The genome sequence is 319.6 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 11 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.84 kilobases in length.
HOUSING CONSTRUCTION AS A DRIVER FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TERRITORIES IN THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Borovskikh Olga , Evstaf'eva Alsu
Published: December 2023

Rural territories are a strategic resource of the Russian Federation. Their development is significantly influenced by the level and quality of life of the rural population. The low quality of life of the rural population, limited employment opportunities, low income levels, as well as poorly developed infrastructure lead to an outflow of labor to cities and the disappearance of entire settlements. Activating housing construction in rural areas will ensure their sustainable development. Government support measures in the field of rural development have an impact on improving the living conditions of the rural population. Preferential rural mortgages are the main mechanism stimulating supply and demand in the rural housing construction market. At the end of 2022 Volga Federal District took a leading position in the demand for preferential rural mortgages. The study was conducted to identify the most attractive and promising federal districts for the development of rural housing construction in the Russian Federation. The Southern, North Caucasian, Volga and Central regions are characterized by unique opportunities that make it possible, through the development of housing construction, to indirectly develop agriculture as a whole. Less attractive for the development of rural housing construction are the Northwestern, Ural, Siberian and Far Eastern federal districts. The results of the authors' research will be useful to various authorities to improve methods for stimulating housing construction in rural areas.
Leisure of modern youth
Authors: Pogodina A. , Ivanova Irina
Published: December 2023

The article deals with the features of leisure of modern youth based on the materials of a social survey of schoolchildren and students. The analysis of the needs of the younger generation in the choice of leisure is carried out. The problems of organizing free time and leisure activities of the younger generation are considered.
Procopius and Thucydides
Authors: Croke Brian
Published: December 2023

Modern understanding of the emperor Justinian’s protracted war against the Gothic regime in Italy and Sicily is based almost entirely on the account of Procopius of Caesarea from 535 to 552. The chronology of the war therefore depends on the interpretation of Procopius’s narrative in the fundamental books by J.B. Bury, History of the Later Roman Empire (1923) and E. Stein, Histoire du Bas-Empire (1949), which underpin all modern accounts. Both Bury and Stein presumed that Procopius’ Gothic war year ran uniformly from the end of June of one year to the end of June of the next. This paper aims to demonstrate that the Procopian Gothic war year did not run at a fixed time from June to June each year, but from the beginning of the annual campaign season (normally March) to the end of the following winter, in clear imitation of his model Thucydides. Also explored are the implications for redating key episodes of the Gothic War
Ciceros Beweisführung aus der Wahrscheinlichkeit im Geldstreit zwischen dem Schauspieler Roscius und Fannius Chaerea
Authors: Hermann Marek
Published: December 2023

The paper explores the argumentation from probability in Cicero’s speech Pro Roscio comoedo, concerning the financial litigation between a famous Roman actor Quintus Roscius and an unknown businessman Fannius Chaerea. The Roman rhetorician had analysed the question of probability in his earlier dissertation De inventione, which influenced his art of persuasion. Because of lack of the strong proofs the arguments from probability played a great role in the defence of Roscius. Cicero used different types of likelihood arguments: syllogistic argument from probability, credibilia, incredibilia, verisimilia, as well as the arguments from ethos and kedros. He seems to be here aware of the Greek theory of argumentation present in the writings of Aristotle and Rhetorica ad Alexandrum. The Roman orator recalled often the truth and juxtaposed it with the probability. Cicero employed likelihood proofs in his speech, both in argumentation and in refutation.
Relationships of Self-leadership, Working Environment, and Professionalism among School Health Teachers
Authors: Kim Joohee , Ko Young
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study was conducted to examine the relationships of self-leadership, working environment, and professionalism, and to identify the factors that influence professionalism among school health teachers.Methods: This study was a descriptive research study to identify the relationships of self-leadership, work environment, and professionalism among school health teachers. Data were collected from 198 people via an online survey using a structured questionnaire. The data were collected from February 7 to 24, 2023. The relationships of self-leadership, working environment, and professionalism were analyzed using multiple regression analysis.Results: The score of self-leadership of school health teachers was 3.97 points out of 5, working environment was 3.28 points out of 5, and professionalism was 4.12 points out of 5. Professional accountability and competency development were influenced by behavioral strategies of self-leadership, cognitive strategies of self-leadership, and working environment. These variables explained 35.0% and 29.5% of professional accountability, respectively. Autonomy was influenced by age, cognitive strategy of self-leadership, and working environment, and these variables explained 19.2% of the variance of autonomy. Social recognition was influenced by behavioral strategy of self-leadership, and working environment, and these variables explained 28.0% of social recognition.Conclusion: To enhance the professionalism of school health teachers, it is necessary to cultivate self-leadership that can overcome difficulties in work and properly self-criticize. Improving the working environment would help enhance the professionalism of school health teachers.
Probabilistic Outcomes Are Valued Less in Expectation, Even Conditional on Their Realization
Authors: Paolacci Gabriele , André Quentin
Published: December 2023

Most theories of decision making under risk assume that payoffs and probabilities are separable. In the context of a lottery, the subjective value of a prospective outcome (the payoff) is assumed to be independent of the likelihood that the outcome will occur (the probability). In violation of this assumption, we present eight experiments showing that people anticipate less utility from uncertain outcomes than from certain outcomes, even conditional on their realization. The devaluation of uncertain outcomes is observed across different measures of utility (willingness to spend money or time; choice between different options), different populations (student and online samples), and different manipulations of uncertainty. We show that this result does not simply reflect a misunderstanding of the instructions or people’s aversion toward a “weird” transaction with unexplained features. We highlight the implications of this phenomenon for empirical investigations of risk preferences and conclude with a discussion of the psychological mechanisms that might drive the devaluation of probabilistic outcomes.

This paper was accepted by Yuval Rottenstreich, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.02284 .
Development of a Self-Reported Communication Competence Questionnaire for Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Song Eun Ju , Park Sook Kyoung , Kwak Yun Bok
Published: December 2023

Purpose: To develop a self-reported communication competency scale for patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Twenty-nine preliminary items were selected from 42 candidate items derived from literature review and qualitative interviews using content validity analysis of expert opinions to evaluate 637 patients’ schizophrenia communication competence. Data from 383 individuals were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using data of 280 individuals. The final dataset included data from 254 participants. Data were subjected to exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses using SPSS and AMOS 24.0.Results: After evaluating the model fit index for the last 24 items, the following results were obtained: x2=633.95 (p<.001), x2/df (degree of freedom)=2.26, SRMR=0.04, RMSEA=0.06, TLI=0.93, CFI=0.94, NFI=0.96. Therefore, this tool’s suitability was evaluated as acceptable. The final scale comprised 24 items and 3 subscales that could measure basic, interpersonal, and communicative expression of patients with schizophrenia. Conclusion: A self-reported communication competency scale was developed for patients with schizophrenia. It is expected to help measure the effectiveness of intervention programs to improve communication among patients with schizophrenia.
The Process of Adapting to Daily Life after Discharge of Self-injury Adolescents
Authors: Hwang Dae Won , Han Kuem Sun
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand the process of adapting to daily life after discharge of self-injury adolescents and to develop a substantive theory that can explain their experiences. Methods: Data collection and analysis were conducted through interviews with 9 participants who returned to their daily life after discharge, and data analysis was conducted according to the grounded theory approach. Results: As a result of the analysis, a total of 31 concepts and 9 categories were derived, and were classified into the areas of conditions, actions-interactions, and consequences according to the grounded theory paradigm. As a core category that can explain all these concepts and categories, ‘balance oneself in a precarious daily life’ was derived. Conclusion: In this study, a theory in which this process was composed in the order of return stage, crisis stage, and transformative stage, was presented. Finally, the discussions and suggestions of this study based on these results were described.
Influence of the Reasons for Living on Suicide Behavior in Soldiers with Suicide Attempts
Authors: Kim Yoon Ah , Gang Moonhee , Ahn Yu-Jin
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of the reasons for living on suicide behavior in soldiers with suicide attempts.Methods: A descriptive study design was used. The participants were 67 soldiers with suicide attempts from an Armed Forces Hospital in D city. Data were collected from January 9 to March 9, 2023, and were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression with the SPSS/WIN 26.0 program.Results: Regression analysis results showed that diagnosis with major depressive disorder (β=.25, p=.013), survival and coping belief (β=-.52, p=.001), family responsibility and concern (β=.25, p=.033) were significant factors, and these factors explained 45.9% of the variance in suicide behavior.Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that diagnosis with major depressive disorder and the reasons for living influence the suicide behavior of soldiers with suicide attempts. Therefore, to prevent suicide, reattempts of soldiers, an intervention strategy to improve survival and coping beliefs, and family responsibilities and concerns are needed for soldiers diagnosed with depression.
De MOOC A SPOC, una metodología eficaz y divertida para enseñar marketing
Authors: De-Juan-Vigaray Maria Dolores , González-Gascón Elena
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCCIÓN. Después de más de una década desde la aparición del primer curso MOOC (Massive Open Online Course), la literatura académica ha sido prolífica en estudiar los efectos de esta metodología diseñada para el entorno virtual. Numerosos estudios centrados en la investigación sobre los MOOCs ponen de manifiesto su controvertida existencia, y otros apuntan a su evolución hacia los SPOCs (Small Private Online Course). En este contexto las preguntas de investigación se refieren a detectar si el alumnado universitario de último curso, que ya cuenta con cierta competencia digital en su haber, conoce qué es un MOOC y si ha realizado alguno durante su carrera académica, especialmente en tiempos de pandemia cuando la docencia online estaba en su punto álgido. Por otro lado, dado que cambiamos a otro formato, conocer si el SPOC resulta una metodología eficaz y divertida para enseñar conceptos extracurriculares. MÉTODO. 391 estudiantes universitarios de último curso del Grado en Administración y Dirección de Empresas (ADE) de tres cursos académicos (2018/19, 2019/20, 2020/21) respondieron voluntariamente e informados a un cuestionario online, tras realizar el SPOC. RESULTADOS. Los resultados indican que el 88,49% afirma desconocer su existencia. De aquellos que sí habían realizado algún MOOC previamente, el 95,12% lo hicieron por ser obligatorio como complemento a la formación, y sólo el 4,87% por interés personal en el tema. En ambos casos no hay diferencias ni por curso ni por sexo. El SPOC propuesto es considerado eficaz para aprender por un 82,6% del estudiantado y divertido por un 78%. En ambos casos la proporción de mujeres que lo perciben útil y divertido es mayor que la de los hombres. DISCUSIÓN. Este hecho viene a revelarnos la necesidad de revisitar esta metodología de enseñanza para redefinir mejor las estrategias de cara al futuro.
Percepción de los docentes ante los retos de la sociedad digital
Authors: Gil-Fernández Raquel , Calderón-Garrido Diego
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCCIÓN. El modelo TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) se diseñó para determinar y predecir la aceptación de la tecnología. Se basó en otros paradigmas desarrollados desde la psicología social como la TRA (Theory of Reasoned Action). La heterogeneidad de los postulados que perseguían el mismo fin que la TAM llevó a la formulación de la UTAUT (Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) para unificar todas las teorías y modelos anteriores. Para ello, se tuvieron en cuenta los constructos básicos que sistematizaban ocho modelos y/o teorías, así como los factores moderadores más relevantes que las articulaban. El objetivo de este estudio es establecer la influencia de las creencias sobre tecnología: UP (utilidad percibida), FUP (facilidad de uso percibida) e IC (intención de comportamiento) sobre la CDD (competencia digital docente). MÉTODO. Se ha recurrido a una metodología cuantitativa administrando un cuestionario al que, a las preguntas sociodemográficas, se le añaden ítems sobre el Marco Europeo de CDD y cuestiones relativas a las subescalas de la UTAUT. Los cálculos estadísticos se han realizado a través del software estadístico r y rstudio. RESULTADOS. Los resultados que se extrajeron del análisis factorial confirmatorio muestran la adecuación de los ítems propuestos tanto para UP, como para FUP y la IC. Estas tres subescalas fueron a su vez adecuadas para la UTAUT, pues todos los ítems relacionados con las seis dimensiones de la CDD se correlacionaron positivamente con las escalas de la UTAUT. DISCUSIÓN. El contraste de los resultados obtenidos con los reflejados por la literatura científica confirma que las medidas de ajuste entre la UTAUT y la CDD consiguen un modelo de análisis sólido, y que la relación positiva entre sus diferentes cargas factoriales son óptimas para su desarrollo. Se debe seguir analizando esta confluencia para guiar políticas educativas.
Validation of an automated method for studying retinal capillary blood flow
Authors: Neriyanuri Srividya , Bedggood Phillip , Symons R. C. Andrew , Metha Andrew B.
Published: December 2023

Two major approaches for tracking cellular motion across a range of biological tissues are the manual labelling of cells, and automated analysis of spatiotemporal information represented in a kymograph. Here we compare these two approaches for the measurement of retinal capillary flow, a particularly noisy application due to the low intrinsic contrast of single red blood cells (erythrocytes). Image data were obtained using a flood-illuminated adaptive optics ophthalmoscope at 750 nm, allowing the acquisition of flow information over several cardiac cycles which provided key information in evaluating tracking accuracy. Our results show that in addition to being much faster, the automated method is more accurate in the face of rapid flow and reduced image contrast. This study represents the first validation of commonly used kymograph approaches to capillary flow analysis.