bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Ability of Inflammatory Markers on In-Hospital Outcomes in Patients Admitted to Coronary Care Unit (MORCOR-TURK INFLAME)
Authors: Kümet Ömer , Özgeyik Mehmet , Topuz Şahin , Taşcanov Mustafa Beğenç , Dindaş Ferhat , Şahin İrfan , Ersoy İbrahim , Tanboğa İbrahim Halil
Published: August 2024

We investigated the prognostic implications of the systemic immune-inflammatory index (SII), atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and triglyceride/glucose index (TGI) in the MORtality predictors in the CORonary Care Units in TURKey (MORCOR-TURK) population. This is the largest registry of coronary care unit (CCU) patients in Turkey (3157 patients admitted to CCU in 50 different centers). The study population was divided into two according to in-hospital survival status; 137 patients (4.3%) died in-hospital follow-up. A significant correlation was found between death and SII, CAR, NLR, and PNI but not for AIP and TGI in logistic regression. In Model 1 (combining parameters proven to be risk predictors), the −2 log-likelihood ratio was 888.439, Nagelkerke R2 was 0.235, and AUC (area under curve) was 0.814 (95% CI: 0.771-0.858). All other models were constructed by adding each inflammatory marker separately to Model 1. Only Model 3 (CAR + Model 1) had a significantly greater AUC than Model 1 (DeLong P = .01). Our study showed that CAR, but not other inflammatory index, is a significant predictor of in-hospital mortality in CCU patients when added to proven risk predictors.
Response: Religion and ideology between reason and the irrational
Authors: Arnal William
Published: August 2024

This article responds to the other contributions in this special issue, focusing on points of convergence among them. These include a shared sense that the media mishandled the trucker convoy; a common conviction that the protestors’ rhetoric often involved an ideological substitution of part for whole (or vice versa); and a shared interest in how mythic narratives of the past shape present actions. The response concludes by pointing to the salience of Canadian regionalism and the mythic image of the pioneer, and how this relates to the protestors’ construction of distinctive masculinities.
The securitization of air travel in the United States (1968–72)
Authors: Porat Dan
Published: August 2024

Beginning in 1968, a surge in plane hijackings, particularly from the United States, prompted a focus on security measures to combat this trend. Initially, deterrence strategies implemented through laws and adopted from international conventions proved ineffective. This article traces the evolution from selective passenger profiling to a 1972 U.S. security order to screen all passengers, triggered by the emergence of politically motivated hijackings and ransom demands, which changed the experience and nature of flight worldwide. It examines stakeholders’ perspectives, with pilots advocating for extensive profiling and screening, while airlines and airport operators favoured legal treatises, likely due to the lower financial burden of enforcement. This article examines the historical social and political context within which terrorism and counter-terrorism in the realm of air travel unfold.
Perceived and Internalized Stigma Towards Suicide and Their Roles in Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among Chinese College Students
Authors: Lyu Shunyan , Guo Zixuan , Jiang Sabrina Yanan , Li Yu
Published: August 2024

Although perceived and internalized suicide stigma are considered risk factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), their specific roles in STBs are not well understood. This study examined the relationships among perceived and internalized suicide stigma, hopelessness, unbearable pain, suicidal desire, and suicide attempts in college students. A total of 1,387 Chinese college students (mean age: 22.22 years) completed the relevant scales. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the relationships of interest. The results showed that perceived stigma primarily had indirect impacts on suicidal desire through internalized stigma, which subsequently affected unbearable pain and hopelessness. The findings of this study suggest that the internalization of suicide stigma is an important predictor of STBs. These findings advocate for stigma interventions aimed at reducing internalized stigma as a potentially effective strategy for suicide prevention, as it may alleviate unbearable pain and hopelessness, which are significant contributors to suicidal desire and attempts.
The BRICS+: Who are they, why are they important, and what do they want?
Authors: Ross Andrew G
Published: August 2024

This paper analyses one of the most significant attempts since 1944 to rebalance the global powerbase in favour of emerging market economies. In January 2024, the BRICS group of emerging market economies undertook in the words of the Chinese President an ‘historic’ expansion and admitted five new member countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Adopting a revisionist approach, the new ‘BRICS+’ grouping seeks a more representative and fairer international order acting as a counterweight to Western economic and political dominance. The paper highlights that while enlargement has expanded the BRICS economic power and geostrategic reach, the BRICS face a number of domestic and geopolitical challenges, which will limit both deeper integration and ultimately the group’s ability to shift the balance of global power in their favour. Ultimately, the expanded BRICS are economically strong(er), yet geopolitically weak(er).
Voluntary nicotine consumption and reward in a subset of diversity outbred founder strains
Authors: Rahman Yumna , Buzzi Belle , Rogers Walker , Miles Michael F , Damaj M Imad
Published: August 2024

Background:

Nicotine is largely responsible for the initiation and maintenance of tobacco dependence and contributes to a global health problem.

Aims:

This study characterizes nicotine oral consumption and preference in male and female mice of several Diversity Outbred (DO) founder strains: C57BL/6J, A/J, 129S1/SvImJ, PWK/PhJ, NOD/ShiLtJ, and CAST/EiJ. It assesses the impact of nicotine concentration on intake and preference, the potential interaction of strain with sex, and estimates the degree of heritable variation in nicotine consumption.

Methods:

Two-bottle choice oral self-administration paradigm was used to assess nicotine intake, nicotine preference, and total fluid intake in male and female mice of each strain in a concentration-response manner. A conditioned place preference (CPP) test was performed to evaluate the rewarding and aversive effects of nicotine in certain strains after systemic administration of the drug.

Results:

The highest nicotine-consuming strain was found to be 129S1/SvlmJ, and the lowest nicotine-consuming strain was A/J. Strain differences in nicotine intake were not due to differences in bitter and sweet tastes as shown in the saccharine and quinine two-bottle choice tests. A/J strain showed no significant CPP for nicotine while the 129S1/SvImJ strain showed a significant CPP for nicotine and a higher preference when compared to the C57BL/6J strain. Heritability estimates of nicotine intake were sex dependent and concentration dependent.

Conclusions:

Data support that nicotine consumption patterns are heritable with an influence of genotype in a voluntary oral self-administration paradigm. Results pave the way for future studies with the highly recombinant DO mice that might lead to the identification of novel genetic loci and genes influencing nicotine consumption.
Correlation between human papillomavirus protein expression and clinicopathological features in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lin , Jiang Nian , Lee Chen Chijen
Published: August 2024

Objective

Given the implications of concurrent human papilloma viral infection (HPV) in the prognostic course and implications on therapeutic approached of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), we seek to investigate the implications that P16 expression has on the clinical course and pathological appearance of patients with OSCC and concurrent infection.

Methods

Using S-P immunohistochemistry, we examined the expression of P16 and Ki67 in 460 patients with OSCC. We compared the expression of the protein between the tumor cells and normal epithelial mucosa within the same patient. The clinical and pathological characteristics (including gender, age, histological grade, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, clinical recurrence, tumor diameter, Ki67 proliferation index) were analyzed by stratification statistically.

Results

In total 460 cases of OSCC were identified and expression of P16 was significantly higher in the OSCC group compared to the normal mucosal epithelial group (X2 = 60.545, p = .000). There also appear to be a gender predilection as the expression was higher in females compared to males (0.218 vs. 0.144, X2 = 3.921, p = .048). Younger age also appears to be a predictive factor as those under 35 years old had higher expression of the protein compared to those over 35 years old (0.294 vs. 0.157, X2 = 4.230, p = .040). P16 positivity showed a significant positive correlation with histologic grade (X2 = 4.114, p = .043). In addition, the positive rate of P16 was higher in patients with ki67 over 85% (0.455 vs. 0.160, X2 = 6.667, p = .023).

Conclusion

OSCC with HPV infection tends to occur more frequently in female patients and those under 35 years of age. HPV infection with expression of the P16 and ki67 protein may promote the proliferation and growth of OSCC at a higher frequency.
Innovation Pipeline: A framework for value-based decision making
Authors: Waye Arianna , Hughes Barbara , Mrklas Kelly , Fraser Nancy , Wasylak Tracy , Leduc Marc , Chuck Anderson
Published: August 2024

The concept of value-based healthcare and focus on health outcomes is not new. While these ideas have been shared for decades, health systems still struggle to implement value-based decision making. This article describes the Innovation Pipeline, a framework that embeds value-based decision making in a healthcare organization. The Innovation Pipeline outlines the measurable evidence requirements needed to demonstrate organizational definitions of value. This evidence of value allows health leaders to make decisions supported by rigorous data, evidence, and evaluation, ensuring initiatives that bring organizational value progress from good ideas that require testing to evidence-based services embedded and sustained in operational workflows. The Innovation Pipeline is rigorous and customizable to all levels of the health system and designed to streamline evidence-generation activities, focusing on collecting evidence needed to demonstrate value and inform funding and resource allocation decisions.
Effect of bovine hydroxyapatite composite with secretome under normoxia and hypoxia conditions on inflammatory parameters in massive bone defect of rabbit radius bone
Authors: Edward Mouli , Suyono Rifki Effendi , Warindra Taufin
Published: August 2024

Hydroxyapatite as a scaffold is capable of producing good bone regeneration formation. Incorporating secretome into scaffolds optimizes the bone healing process. The increase in proinflammatory, anti-inflammatory, and growth factors is one of the key factors in bone healing. In this study, we measured the levels of IL-6, IL-10, and FGF-2 to determine the effectiveness of bovine hydroxyapatite with secretome from normoxia and hypoxia on bone healing. This animal study employed a pure experimental research design, utilizing a post-test-only control group design. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells from rabbit thigh bones were used to derive secretomes under hypoxic and normoxic conditions. Bovine bone-derived hydroxyapatite (BHA) was treated with secretomes under both conditions. Rabbits’ radius bones were implanted with BHA alone, BHA with normoxic secretome, and BHA with hypoxic secretome, then observed for 30 and 60 days. Levels of IL-6, IL-10, and FGF-2 were examined on days 30 and 60. On the 30th day, there was a significant increase in the levels of FGF-2, IL-6, and IL-10, with a dominance of strongly positive levels in BHA alone. However, on the 60th day, the levels of FGF-2, IL-6, and IL-10 started to decrease in all groups, with a dominance of moderately positive levels. Statistical tests showed significant results in all groups on days 30 and 60 ( p < .05). Among the three groups, the best levels of growth factors and pro-inflammatory factors, and the lowest levels of anti-inflammatory factors were found in the BHA alone group on evaluation day 30.
Virtual muscles and reflex control generates human-like ankle torques during gait perturbations
Authors: Hnat Sandra , van den Bogert Antonie J
Published: August 2024

A biologically-inspired actuation system, including muscles, spinal reflexes, and vestibular feedback, may be capable of achieving more natural gait mechanics in powered prostheses or exoskeletons. In this study, we developed a Virtual Muscle Reflex (VMR) system to control ankle torque and tuned it using data from human responses to anteroposterior mechanical perturbations at three walking speeds. The system consists of three Hill-Type muscles, simulated in real time, and uses feedback from ground reaction force and from stretch sensors on the virtual muscle fibers. Controller gains, muscle properties, and reflex/vestibular time delays were optimized using Covariance Matrix Adaptation (CMA) to minimize the difference between the VMR torque output and the torque measured from the experiment. We repeated the procedure using a conventional finite-state impedance controller. For both controllers, the coefficient of determination ([Formula: see text]) and root-mean-square error (RMSE) was calculated as a function of time within the gait cycle. The VMR had lower RMSE than the impedance controller in 70%, and in 60% of the trials, the [Formula: see text] of the VMR controller was higher than for the impedance controller. We concluded that the VMR system can better reproduce the human responses to perturbations than the impedance controller.
Discourses of leadership in the 2015–2023 Poland: From conflict and crisis, to a “smiling state”
Authors: Cap Piotr
Published: August 2024

The present paper employs conceptual tools of critical cognitive discourse studies (discourse space research, metaphor analysis, proximization) to explore patterns of legitimization discourse used by top Polish political parties to claim state leadership in the years 2015–2023. The first part studies the discourse of Law & Justice, a far-right conservative party ruling Poland from October 2015 to October 2023. It describes L&J’s strategies of leadership legitimization involving socio-ideological polarization, strategic generation of internal as well as external conflict, threat construction and crisis management. The second part analyzes the more moderate and cooperation oriented discourse strategies implemented by three opposition parties in the lead-up to the 2023 parliamentary elections, in which L&J finally lost power. The aim of the paper is to compare and contrast the two discourses, L&J’s and the opposition’s, to speculate about the longevity of radical populist discourses such as L&J’s. It is argued that a conflict-charged, polarized populist discourse can be an extremely powerful tool, able to grant longterm political leadership. At the same time, in a yet longer perspective, such a discourse runs a considerable risk of “wearing out” and becoming vulnerable to more forward-looking and pragmatic leadership rhetoric, which presages political change.
Unwinding-free composite full-order sliding-mode control for attitude tracking of flexible spacecraft
Authors: Liu Weiming , Wang Xiangyu
Published: August 2024

In this paper, the attitude tracking control problem is investigated for flexible spacecraft. A novel feedforward-feedback composite control scheme is proposed based on the combination of a generalized proportional integral observer (GPIO) and the full-order sliding-mode control technique. To estimate the lumped disturbances composed of the flexible appendages’ vibration, external environmental disturbance and model uncertainty, a generalized proportional integral observer is firstly constructed. Then, a two-layer recursive full-order sliding-mode surface is developed, where the inner layer is designed as linear sliding-mode surface and the outer layer is designed as a terminal sliding-mode surface. With the feedforward compensation of the GPIO’s estimates, a continuous unwinding-free composite attitude tracking controller is derived to achieve the finite-time arrival of the full-order sliding-mode surface and further ensure the asymptotic set convergence of the attitude tracking errors. Rigorous set stability analysis of the closed-loop attitude tracking error system is given. Comparative simulations are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed composite control scheme.
Investigating the potential of oxygen-isotope records from anthropogenic lakes as tracers of 20th century climate change
Authors: Tindall JM , Holmes J , Candy I , Leng MJ , Langdon P , Fonville T , Sear DA
Published: August 2024

Historical climate change in southern England was investigated using ostracod oxygen-isotope (δ18O) records from two anthropogenic lakes in Hampshire, southern England. A strong relationship is observed between δ18Oostracod, δ18Oprecipitation and δ18Olake_water in the contemporary environment and therefore δ18Oostracod from the sedimentary record of these systems has the potential to reflect past climate variability. The possibility of these sites to act as archives of climate change through δ18Oostracod analysis is explored through the study of lake sediment cores that cover the period from the early 20th century onwards. Both lakes showed similar directionality of shifts in δ18Oostracod over this period, suggesting common driving mechanisms. Comparing δ18Oostracod timeseries to meteorological data is challenging in part because of the complexity with which climate parameters are recorded in the δ18Olake_water and consequently within lacustrine carbonates. Our findings highlight the potential of sediments from anthropogenic lakes to act as archives of past climate and indicate they may be an important resource for generating climatic reconstructions across the medieval to instrumental period, which the sediments of many anthropogenic lakes cover. Such climate reconstructions would greatly improve our spatial and temporal understanding of climate variability where instrumental data are unavailable and other natural archives are scarce.
Detection and classification of spongy tissue disorder in mango fruit during ripening by using visible-near infrared spectroscopy and multivariate analysis
Authors: Kiran Patil R , Jadhav Parth , Avinash G , Aradwad Pramod , TV Arunkumar , Bhardwaj Rakesh , Parray Roaf A
Published: August 2024

The esteemed Alphonso mango, cherished in India for its taste, saffron color, texture, and extended shelf life, holds global commercial appeal. Unfortunately, the prevalent spongy tissue disorder in Alphonso mangoes results in a soft and corky texture, with up to 30% of mangoes within a single batch affected. This issue leads to outright rejection during export due to delayed disorder identification. The current assessment method involves destructive sampling, causing substantial fruit loss, and lacks assurance for overall batch quality. In light of the mentioned challenges, this current study focuses on utilizing visible-near infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy as a non-invasive method to assess the internal quality of mangoes. It also enables innovative classification models for automated binary categorization (healthy vs spongy tissue-affected). Through preprocessing and principal component analysis of spectral reflectance data, wavelength ranges of 670–750 nm, 900–970 nm, and 1100–1170 nm were identified for distinguishing healthy and damaged mangoes. Soft independent modelling of class analogy (SIMCA) modelling is a novel approach that can be used to classify mango into healthy and spongy tissue-affected categories for better postharvest management. The accuracy of SIMCA models for classifying mangoes into healthy and spongy tissue-affected classes was highest in the wavelength regions of 670–750 nm and 900–970 nm, being 94.4% and 96.7%, respectively. The spectral reflectance between wavelength region 650–970 nm gave significant and visible differentiation between all stages of spongy tissue, that is, mild, medium, and severe. Furthermore, the application of Vis-NIR spectroscopy alongside SIMCA modelling offers a viable avenue for examining internal abnormalities resulting from diseases or injuries in fruits, broadening its utility for diverse inspection needs.
Rheology of magnetohydrodynamic viscoelastic fluid flow and heat transfer during the blade coating process with blade slip
Authors: Abbas Z , Javed M , Hanif A , Rafiq MY , Khaliq S
Published: August 2024

Blade coating is a widely used technique for achieving smooth surfaces by applying a protective fluid layer from the blade onto the moving substrate. Under the blade coating phenomena, the impacts of MHD, velocity slip, and heat distribution of the third-grade fluid for both planar and exponential coaters are taken into discussion. Lubrication approximation theory is employed for solving nonlinear equations, while the numerical method known as the shooting technique is utilized to characterize pressure, pressure gradient, velocity, and heat distribution. Numerous parameters including the slip parameter, third-grade fluid, coating thickness, and MHD are numerically investigated to show the effect on fluid flow and shown in several graphs and tables. The results prove the viscoelastic nature of fluid along with MHD and viscous slip to be controlling parameters of pressure and blade load which lead to varying coating thickness, which may help in achieving improved substrate life and efficient coating process.
Firearm Safety Dimensions, an Extension of the Military Safety Climate Questionnaire
Authors: Schüler Martin
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this pilot study is to identify specific safety climate dimensions pertaining to firearm safety and accidental discharge of firearms. New items capture the seriousness in firearms training pertaining to safety, handling and learning. The new items were developed in cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces. The new items together with the Nordic safety climate questionnaire and the military safety climate questionnaire were distributed to one regiment within the Swedish Armed Forces. Data was collected and analyzed through statistical methods. An exploratory factor analysis initially indicated two new factors. The confirmatory factor analysis rejected one new factor keeping Serious firearms training. A two-level factor model was created influenced by accidents and incidents relating to firearms. Two latent variables were identified Safety Voice and Safety engagement both affected by accidents and incidents relating to firearms. The employee category squad leaders, soldiers or sailors at the lowest level of the organization, display significant differences compared to others in creating a climate were incidents and accidents might not be discussed or learnt from preventing unsafe behavior. The results from this study have one dominant limitation, this being that the sample size is only from one regiment. The new factor Serious firearms training need additional testing and validation before being adopted into an instrument. Future research should focus on verifying the two-level factor model with additional data from other military installations and to incorporate other types of variables into the model.
Enhancing Colonoscopy Training Through Simulation-Based Training: Designing and Evaluating an Interactive Graphical User Interface
Authors: Elsaadany Isra K. , Wu Hang-Ling , Alenezy Okba E. , Gopalakrishnan Diviya V. , Gonzalez-Vargas Jessica M. , Moore Jason Z. , Miller Scarlett R.
Published: August 2024

Colonoscopy can reduce the risk of colon cancer by 90%. Due to the lack of surgeon experience, the miss rate of cancerous polyps can reach up to 20%. While simulators have been developed to reduce the high learning curve, these simulators lack real-time feedback needed for successful colonoscopies. The goal of the study was to improve upon colonoscopy training by designing a graphical user interface (GUI) through a two-phase study that included 10 semi-structured interviews and a usability study with 10 participants. Results showed that simulators do not mimic colonoscopy in patients and lack real-time feedback. Additionally, medical residents experience challenges like navigating the scope and loop reduction. User testing results show that users were satisfied with the GUI. Additionally, feedback on polyp detection, cecal intubation time, and force was perceived as useful. As such, the GUI with real-time and post-training feedback has the potential to improve performance in colonoscopy.
Evaluating the Timing Strategy and Permanence of Implementation of the OR-Stretch, An Intraoperative Ergonomic Microbreak for Surgeons
Authors: Anderson Scott , Norasi Hamid , Hallbeck Susan , Erben Young
Published: August 2024

Ergonomic microbreaks such as the OR-Stretch can address work-related musculoskeletal pain among surgeons and potentially alleviate burnout and early retirement. Fifteen surgeons at a single institution completed two operative cases using the OR-Stretch, once using the Scheduled (every 45 min) timing strategy and once using the Self-Determined (between 30 and 60 min based on surgeon preference) strategy. Eight surgeons preferred the Scheduled timing strategy, and seven preferred Self-Determined ( p = .80). The stretch was skipped 16% of the time using the Scheduled strategy and 6% with the Self-Determined strategy ( p = .18). Personal interest, improved mental focus, and ease of remembering were cited as the most influential factors for continued usage, while the most influential factor for not continuing was forgetting to use it. Self-determined intervals for intraoperative microbreaks represent a valid and potentially preferable implementation approach. Efforts to promote long-term adoption of microbreaks should focus on reminding surgeons to use them during operations.
Analyzing Worker Videos for Quantifying Motion Amounts Through Computer Vision
Authors: Iyer Hari , Macwan Neel , Guo Shenghan , Jeong Heejin
Published: August 2024

This study proposes a computer vision framework to monitor worker joint motion from task videos. The framework focuses on landmark features, particularly those associated with participants’ upper and lower limbs, to extract spatial joint movements. By utilizing the Hotelling T-squared statistic, multivariate joint motion distributions were monitored. The application of control chart techniques involved two phases: Phase I (offline) and Phase II (online) monitoring. For implementation, task videos were strategically partitioned into two segments. The first segment was designated for offline training, allowing for the establishment of baseline patterns. The second was allocated for online monitoring, enabling the real-time evaluation of worker demand levels during operational activities. The correlation between the amount of motion and task perception aligns with participants’ ratings from the perception survey, validating the framework’s effectiveness. Understanding how workers interact with products and equipment allows designers to create tools that are easier and more comfortable to use.
Perceptions of Autonomous Robot Teammates During Field Operations
Authors: Patten Trevor , Benton Rachel , Rovira Ericka , Mohammed Susan , McLaughlin Anne Collins
Published: August 2024

Trust remains a critical focus within human-robot interaction research with the benefits of trust including increased task performance. There is a growing body of literature that suggests that the perceived characteristics of robots play a role in trust; however, less is known about the relationship between trust and the perceived characteristics of an autonomous robot teammate in an applied military setting. We investigated the relationship between the perceived characteristics of a robot teammate and the level of trust in the robot by equipping United States Military Academy (USMA) cadets with a pseudo-autonomous quadrupedal robot teammate during field training. We found that the likability, animacy, perceived intelligence, and perceived safety of the robot positively correlated with trust.
Task-Allocation Decisions of Human-UAS Collaboration: Effects of Workload, Trust, and Self-confidence
Authors: Zhang Yining “Elena” , Chen Jing , Sun Liang , Hu Bin , Politowicz Michael S. , Chancey Eric T.
Published: August 2024

Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) show promise in urban air transport, package delivery, and emergency services. UAS efficiency can be significantly improved by having multiple operators ( m) managing a greater number of vehicles ( N), or the m:N architecture of operation. The current study investigates how workload affects operators’ task-allocation decision-making and the potential mediating effects of two crucial human factors, trust and self-confidence. In the context of a simulated UAS package-delivery task under the m:N architecture, two groups of participants with different levels of expertise in UAS operation will be recruited: UAS pilots and university students. Each participant will watch two sets of videos with different work-load manipulations and report their preferred task-allocation strategy for various subtasks. Measures of perceived workload, trust, and self-confidence will be conducted after each video session. Findings will inform optimizing task-allocation designs for UAS missions, considering operators’ decision-making needs and expertise disparities.
Establishment and Validation of Prognostic Nomograms for Patients with Metastatic Pulmonary Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xiaoyun , Lai Xingyue , Huang Yedong , Deng Chaosheng
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Metastatic pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is an aggressive cancer with generally poor outcomes. Effective methods for predicting survival in patients with metastatic LCNEC are needed. This study aimed to identify independent survival predictors and develop nomograms for predicting survival in patients with metastatic LCNEC.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, identifying patients with metastatic LCNEC diagnosed between 2010 and 2017. To find independent predictors of cancer-specific survival (CSS), we performed Cox regression analysis. A nomogram was developed to predict the 6-, 12-, and 18-month CSS rates of patients with metastatic LCNEC. The concordance index (C-index), area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves (AUC), and calibration curves were adopted with the aim of assessing whether the model can be discriminative and reliable. Decision curve analyses (DCAs) were used to assess the model’s utility and benefits from a clinical perspective.

Results

This study enrolled a total of 616 patients, of whom 432 were allocated to the training cohort and 184 to the validation cohort. Age, T staging, N staging, metastatic sites, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were identified as independent prognostic factors for patients with metastatic LCNEC based on multivariable Cox regression analysis results. The nomogram showed strong performance with C-index values of 0.733 and 0.728 for the training and validation cohorts, respectively. ROC curves indicated good predictive performance of the model, with AUC values of 0.796, 0.735, and 0.736 for predicting the 6-, 12-, and 18-month CSS rates of patients with metastatic LCNEC in the training cohort, and 0.795, 0.801, and 0.780 in the validation cohort, respectively. Calibration curves and DCAs confirmed the nomogram’s reliability and clinical utility.

Conclusion

The new nomogram was developed for predicting CSS in patients with metastatic LCNEC, providing personalized risk evaluation and aiding clinical decision-making.
Bolt-loosening Fault Diagnosis in Rotor Systems with Nonlinear Vibration Transmissibility Function-based Features and Indexes
Authors: Li Quankun , Zhao Qingzhou , Wang Siji , Jing Xingjian
Published: August 2024

These methods that rely on features and indices derived from nonlinear vibration transmissibility functions (NVTFs) have found widespread success in detecting potential bolt-loosening faults within nonrotating systems such as bridges, railways, and satellites. To improve and extend existing NVTF-based methods for diagnosing bolt-loosening faults in rotor systems, a novel method is proposed with detailed theoretical analysis and experimental study in this paper. First, a general rotor dynamic model, considering bolt-loosening forces, radial unbalance forces, and nonlinear support forces, is built for the nonlinear rotor dynamic analysis and the definition of rotor-domain NVTFs. Importantly, by dividing the rotor system into a series of rotor subsystems and analyzing corresponding rotor dynamic submodels to be diagnosed only, relationships between NVTFs and bolt-loosening forces are summarized, and then three sensitive fault features are defined. Based on this, local diagnosis indexes are developed, and a novel method with detailed operating flowchart is proposed accordingly. Finally, results from experimental cases on a testing rotor system with single/multiple stage bolt-loosening faults and loosened pedestals verify and demonstrate the effectiveness of the novel method. The study in this article successfully improves and extends existing NVTF-based methods for nonrotating systems to diagnose potential bolt-loosening faults in rotor systems even with nonlinear supports such as loosened pedestals.
Differences in Interfacility Transfer from Emergency Department and Inpatient Services for Inpatient Neurologic Care
Authors: Shah Maulik P. , Douglas Anne G. , Sauer Brian M. , Richie Megan B. , Douglas Vanja C. , Josephson S. Andrew , Guterman Elan L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Interhospital transfer is an important mechanism for improving access to specialized neurologic care but there are large gaps in our understanding of interhospital transfer for the management of non-stroke-related neurologic disease.

Methods

This observational study included consecutive patients admitted to an adult academic general neurology service via interhospital transfer from July 1, 2015 to July 1, 2017. Characteristics of the referring hospital and transferred patients were obtained through the American Hospital Association Directory, a hospital transfer database maintained by the accepting hospital, and the electronic medical record. The analyses used descriptive statistics to examine the cohort overall and compare characteristics of patients transferred from an emergency department and inpatient service.

Results

504 patients were admitted via interhospital transfer during the study period. Of these, 395 patients (78.4%) were transferred because the referring hospital lacked capability, and 139 patients (27.6%) were transferred from an emergency department as opposed to inpatient service. Seizures was the most common diagnosis (23.8%). Patients who were transferred from an emergency department had a higher proportion covered by Medicaid (44.6%) than those transferred from an inpatient service (28.8%) and had a shorter median length of stay (3 days; IQR 2-7 vs 7 days; IQR 4-12).

Conclusions

The majority of observed interhospital non-stroke neurologic transfers occurred to improve access to specialized neurological care for patients, though patients transferred from the ED, as opposed to an inpatient service, had lower health care utilization, and this will be important to consider when developing systems of care and in future research.
CFRP-RC fracture strength prediction: A novel approach using deep learning
Authors: AL-Bukhaiti Khalil , Yanhui Liu , Shichun Zhao , Daguang Han
Published: August 2024

Externally bonded carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have been widely adopted for strengthening and repairing aging concrete structures. However, premature fracture at the CFRP-concrete interface remains a significant concern, necessitating a better understanding of the interfacial bond behavior and fracture mechanisms. Traditional experimental studies and numerical simulations have limitations in accurately capturing the complex nonlinear factors influencing this fracture behavior. This paper explores the novel application of machine learning (ML), specifically artificial neural networks (ANNs), for predicting the fracture strength of CFRP-reinforced concrete (CFRP-RC) members. ANNs enable mapping the intricate relationships between input parameters (e.g., CFRP/concrete properties, geometric configurations) and fracture responses through iterative training on experimental data. Key aspects include comprehensive data collection, preprocessing techniques, feature selection methods like mean impact value (MIV) analysis, and neural network architecture design. The paper highlights successful ANN applications in predicting CFRP-RC bond strength, shear capacity, and overall fracture behavior. A systematic approach is proposed for developing robust ANN models tailored to CFRP-RC fracture prediction, encompassing data curation, input variable screening, network training/validation, and model interpretability analyses. By leveraging ML’s ability to handle multifaceted nonlinearities, this data-driven framework offers a powerful alternative to traditional methods, potentially enhancing the design, analysis, and performance evaluation of CFRP-strengthened concrete structures.
Creativity beyond Dynamic Equivalence in Bonnie Lewis’s English Timshel Translation
Authors: Dobson Jennifer
Published: August 2024

The societal and cultural significance of the Bible and the interpretations and applications thereof mean that the legitimacy of Bible translations and translation strategies are extensively debated. However, creativity in Bible translation has not often been specifically addressed. In the last century, much of the discourse around Bible translation has been shaped by the work of Eugene Nida. This paper approaches the topic of creativity within Bible translation by examining Nida’s work with a particular concern for this topic. Bonnie Lewis’s Timshel: An Idiomatic Bible Translation is then discussed as a case study. Lewis’s work is an explicitly creative rendering of sections of the Bible in English, inspired by the Jewish tradition of midrash, a reading between the lines, and including extra-biblical content. Examination of Lewis’s project provokes questions about the role of creativity in Bible translation, translation vs. preaching, and who is permitted to translate the Bible.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on One-Year Mortality in Geriatric Hip Fracture: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Selçuk Eşref , Erem Murat , Selçuk Emine Gökçen , Mercan Oğuz
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems, necessitating substantial shifts in patient care strategies. The pandemic’s onset led to drastic operational changes in hospitals, including reduced bed capacity and staffing levels, which could have further influenced the mortality outcomes for geriatric patients. The study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on 1-year mortality rates of surgically treated geriatric hip fractures.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center cohort study included 346 participants aged 65 and above who underwent surgical treatment for hip fractures. We compared mortality rates between the pre-COVID and COVID eras. Data included demographics, treatment, complications, and COVID-19 status. The independent samples t test and Chi-square tests (or Fisher’s exact test) were used for comparisons for era cohorts. Survival probabilities were assessed using Kaplan-Meier, while multivariate analysis identified mortality predictors.

Results

175 patients were included in the pre-COVID era, and 171 patients were included in the COVID era. During the COVID era, the 30-day mortality rate was 11.7% (compared to 13.7% in the pre-COVID era, p = 0.573), and the 1-year mortality rate was 43.9% (compared to 49.1% in the pre-COVID era, p = 0.325). The overall 1-year mortality rate was 46.5%. Patients who underwent surgery within 48 hours had a higher 1-year survival rate (60.5%) compared to those with delayed surgery (51.2%), p = 0.031. Additionally, patients not admitted to the ICU had a higher 1-year survival rate (74.7%) than those who were admitted (44.9%), p < 0.001. 70.1% of the total deaths occurred within the first 90 days.

Conclusion

Elderly patients with hip fractures experienced high mortality rates before and during the pandemic. This study demonstrates that the 1-year mortality rates of geriatric hip fractures were not significantly affected by the pandemic. The findings emphasize the importance of pandemic preparedness and prompt surgeries and attentive ICU care in reducing mortality rates.
Social Support, Depression and Self-Reported Physical Health in Persons Waiting for Access to Subsidized Housing
Authors: Woodhall-Melnik Julia , Lamont Allyson , Nombro Emily , Dunn James R. , Dutton Daniel D. J.
Published: August 2024

Housing is a pervasive determinant of physical and mental health. Studies indicate the importance of social support to the mental and physical health of individuals who are unhoused; however, to date, little is known about this relationship in persons who are housed in unaffordable accommodations. As the demand for subsidized housing continues to increase far beyond sustainable levels in many countries, investigations of the implications of social support on the health and wellbeing of those waiting for access to subsidized accommodations becomes important to generate evidence-based policy responses. Using data from the NB Housing Study, this paper presents an analysis of the relationships between perceived social support, depression, and self-reported physical health in individuals who wait for access to subsidized housing in New Brunswick, Canada ( n = 271). Hierarchical linear regression of Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3) scores on Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale 10 (CES-D-10) scores and of OSSS-3 scores on self-reported physical health scores finds increases in social support are associated with decreased depression ( F [1, 260] = 26.34, p < .001, R2 = .32) and greater physical health ( F [1, 260] = 7.62, p = .006, R2 = .15). The findings indicate a need to focus on health interventions that improve mental and physical health alongside social support. Implications for programming, policy, and future research are discussed.
Kinematic Modeling of Pitch Velocity in High School and Professional Baseball Pitchers: Comparisons With the Literature
Authors: Manzi Joseph E. , Dowling Brittany , Wang Zhaorui , Sudah Suleiman Y. , Moran Jay , Chen Frank R. , Estrada Jennifer A. , Nicholson Allen , Ciccotti Michael C. , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Dines Joshua S.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Kinematic parameters predictive of pitch velocity have been evaluated in adolescent and collegiate baseball pitchers; however, they have not been established for high school or professional pitchers.

Purpose:

To create multiregression models using anthropometric and kinematics features most predictive for pitch velocity in high school and professional pitchers and compare them with prior multiregression models evaluating other playing levels.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

High school (n = 59) and professional (n = 337) baseball pitchers threw 8 to 12 fastballs while being evaluated with 3-dimensional motion capture (480 Hz). Using anthropometric and kinematic variables, multiregression models for pitch velocity were created for each group. A systematic review was conducted to determine previous studies that established kinematic models for ball velocity in youth, high school, and collegiate pitchers.

Results:

Leg length was predictive of pitch velocity for high school and professional pitchers ( P < .001 for both). When compared with previously established models for pitch velocity, almost all groups were distinct from one another when assessing age ( Pmaximum < .001), weight ( Pmax = .0095), and pitch velocity ( Pmax < .001). Stride length was a significant predictor for the youth/high school pitchers, as well as the current study's high school and professional pitchers ( P < .001 for all). Maximal shoulder external rotation (collegiate: P = .001; professional: P < .001) and maximal elbow extension velocity (high school/collegiate: P = .024; collegiate: P < .001; professional: P = .006) were shared predictors for the collegiate and current study's professional group multiregression models. Trunk flexion at ball release was a commonly shared predictor in the youth/high school ( P = .04), high school/collegiate ( P = .003), collegiate ( P < .001), and the current study's professional group ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Youth, high school, collegiate, and professional pitchers had unique, predictive kinematic and anthropometric features predictive of pitch velocity. Leg length, stride length, trunk flexion at ball release, and maximal shoulder external rotation were predictive features that were shared between playing levels.

Clinical Relevance:

Coaches, clinicians, scouts, and pitchers can consider both the unique and the shared predictive features at each playing level when attempting to maximize pitch velocity.
Decolonizing Higher Education Curricula: Perspectives from Teaching Indigenous Literature
Authors: Longkumer Imti Watitula
Published: August 2024

Educational institutions are globally incorporating inclusive curricula that align with the changing educational paradigms and reflect societal and community contexts. Institutions create committees to redesign their courses; however, the question of integration and implementation on the ground remains unclear and a challenge for most (but certainly not all) institutions. In the wake of curriculum diversification in higher education in India, as envisaged in the National Education Policy 2020, there is an emphasis on promoting Indian knowledge system in the curriculum with the larger aims of decolonizing and creating an inclusive learning experience. Drawing from my experience on designing and teaching a course on Indigenous literature, this essay critically examines the development, teaching methodologies, impact and challenges associated with the course. The essay also discusses what it means to decolonize and reflects on why it is important.
Decoding Namboothiri illams of Kerala: A shape grammar approach
Authors: A Linas Fathima , K Chithra
Published: August 2024

The mana/ illam is a courtyard house typology found in the southern Indian state of Kerala, specific to the elite Namboothiri Brahmin community, who are members of the highest caste in the Hindu hierarchy, noted for their scholarship and wealth. These are highly decorated palatial houses built using timber or exposed laterite with sloped gable roofing designed to survive the heavy monsoons, expressive of Kerala’s rich vernacular and traditional architecture. This paper describes the language of mana/illam using shape grammar. To formulate the shape grammar, 36 samples of mana/illams across Kerala were architecturally documented, analysed, and their characteristics and differences in typology were determined. Three typologies of mana/illams are identified; spatial configurations, proportions, and hierarchy are examined, from which the vocabulary and rulesets for the shape grammar are formulated. Sixty-eight shape rules are defined across 20 stages. Sixty plan typologies of mana/illam are generated to illustrate the grammar.