bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Laboratory Operations-Friendly Long-Term Loose Mix Aging Protocol for New Asphalt Pavements
Authors: Zhou Fujie , Mogawer Walaa S. , Elwardany Michael , Mensching David J. , Mahmoud Enad
Published: December 2022

New asphalt pavements are often designed to last 15 to 20 years without a major rehabilitation. However, an asphalt mix gets stiffer and more brittle with pavement service life because of aging. As cracking resistance decreases at higher aging levels, pavement structural design and performance verification need to consider the long-term aging characteristics of asphalt mixes. The research presented in this paper developed long-term loose mix aging protocols that are more friendly to routine laboratory operations. Based on a theoretical aging model and the IDEAL cracking test, two aging protocols are equivalent to the 3- and 6-day loose mix aging durations at 95°C provided by NCHRP 9-54, which are 20 h at 110°C and 20 h at 120°C, respectively. These new long-term aging protocols were then confirmed by the Texas Overlay Test and the Illinois Flexibility Index Test. The integration of these protocols into a comprehensive framework for mix design, pavement performance verification, and production testing is discussed. In brief, these new long-term aging protocols would be employed for evaluating cracking resistance only in the pavement performance verification stage, whereas the short-term aging protocol, namely, 2 h at the compaction temperature, would be applied to Superpave volumetric evaluation, balanced mix design (BMD), and production testing. These two new aging protocols combined with BMD rapid performance tests and performance prediction tests make this comprehensive framework very practical and efficient.
Traffic Mosaic: Traffic Data Imputation Method Inspired by Image Super Resolution
Authors: Xu Xinpeng , Wu Weiguo , Shuai Jie , Zhang Dong
Published: December 2022

Missing data is a major problem in data-driven intelligent transportation systems. This study presents an imputation method, called TrafficMosaic, for effective imputation of lost traffic flow data. If we consider traffic data as a image, then the missing data in it can be regarded as a mosaic. The design of TrafficMosaic is inspired by super resolution techniques. First, a deep neural network (DNN) is employed to recover the lost data by a suite of techniques inspired from image super resolution. This DNN method combines the temporal relevance of historical flow with spatial correlation of current fragmented flow data, and uses the imputation result as input for recursive calculation. Second, a data-driven road network matrixing algorithm is proposed to mine location relations from trajectory data and reconstruct a road network flow into matrixes of road network flow pictures. Convolutional local calculation in a convolutional neural network is introduced to extract local spatial features of the road network, thereby reducing the computational complexity and improving the generalization ability. The final step is to extract the local temporal features of the flow data. Traffic flows at adjacent moments have strong temporal characteristics, and we splice several historical road network traffic pictures in chronological order so that our model can capture temporal information from the sequence. The experimental evaluation used a real automatic number plate recognition dataset for experiments, and the results show the effectiveness of TrafficMosaic for lost data imputation.
Metro Network Operational Solutions for Connectivity Control based on Percolation Theory
Authors: Kim Sion , Ku Donggyun , Lee Seungjae
Published: December 2022

Recent studies have applied the percolation theory to analyze the connectivity of networks in the transportation field. However, research was conducted in a manner that completely removed the function of nodes or links. There was a limit in that applying public transportation was difficult to guarantee the right to move the captive rider. In this study, penalties were imposed on public transportation nodes in the form of wait times to remove the function of node partially. Accordingly, the travel time of a network was calculated by optimal strategy assignment to reflect passenger behavior. When nodes were randomly penalized without transfer distinctions, there was a critical point of travel-time increase between cases with penalties of 50 and 60 nodes, respectively, and percolation was observed indirectly. A large and global effect of increased travel time was observed when the penalties were issued only to transfer stations. The application of a trip frequency weight increases the effect of penalties on medium- or short-timed trips. The results of this study can be used to establish quarantine policies for controlling public transportation networks. Furthermore, it is the first attempt at observing percolation by partially limiting its function in the form of node penalties in a public transportation network.
“Anything that Benefits the Workers Should Benefit the Client”: Opportunities and Constraints in Self-Directed Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wendel Carrie L. , LaPierre Tracey A. , Sullivan Darcy L. , Babitzke Jennifer , Swartzendruber Lora , Barta Tobi , Olds Danielle M.
Published: December 2022

Self-directed care (SDC) models allow Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) consumers to direct their own care, thus supporting flexible, person-centered care. There are many benefits to the SDC model but access to resources is essential to successful outcomes. Considering the autonomy and flexibility associated with SDC, it is important to understand how SDC responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resources available to help manage this situation. We conducted 54 in-depth interviews with HCBS consumers, direct support workers, family caregivers, and providers to examine the impact of COVID-19 on HCBS services in Kansas. Findings illuminate how self-directed consumers carried a lot of employer responsibility, with limited resources and systemic barriers constraining self-determination and contributing to unmet care needs, stress, and burden. Policy flexibilities expanding the hiring of family members were beneficial but insufficient to address under-resourced working conditions and labor shortages that were exacerbated by the pandemic.
“It’s better than nothing, but I do not find it to be ideal”: Older adults’ experience of TeleRehab during the first COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Rotenberg Shlomit , Oreper Julie S. , Bar Yael , Davids-Brumer Naomi , Dawson Deirdre R.
Published: December 2022

This qualitative study used descriptive thematic analysis to explore the experiences of 16 older adults (age: 71 ± 6.4) who transitioned from an in-person to telerehabilitation (TeleRehab) group intervention in March 2020. We found the following themes: (1A) Technology Use, describing challenges and need for support; and (1B) Technology Self-Efficacy, describing how technological ability was attributed to past-experience and/or age. Four themes described the intervention experience. First, “Not The Same, But Better Than Nothing” (2A), reflected a preference for in-person intervention. Specifically, in-person training provided a better social experience (theme 2B), and stronger accountability, although the content was well delivered in both modalities (theme 2C). Contextual factors (theme 2D) that played a role were ease of commute, especially important during the winter, and the context of the lockdown, that positioned the TeleRehab intervention as a meaningful social activity. However, sensory impairments, and/or distractions in the home diminished the TeleRehab experience.
An evolutionary game analysis on price competition in recycling industry between large and small enterprises of China
Authors: Yu Zhang , Khan Syed Abdul Rehman , Zia-Ul-Haq Hafiz Muhammad , Ma Tianshan , Sajid Muhammad Jawad
Published: December 2022

This research aims to analyse and understand recycling phenomena and competition between large-scale and small-scale enterprises under different public attention. It mainly emphasizes service-providing behaviours to the consumers in the recycling industry, where recyclers are struggling to enhance their profits. The government strives to protect the environment by promoting an efficient recycling industry. As fast-growing waste products, the recyclers should achieve the advantage of number and be equipped with service capability for the consumers. Thus, this study employs an evolutionary game model to analyse the competition for waste products acquisitions between large and small recyclers. Due to a significant association between the service and acquisition waste product price for the consumers and recycling quantity, there is a strong mutual influence between the acquisition price of waste products and the price strategy-taken rate of large and small recyclers. Results also reveal that the market acquisition price and processing cost play a crucial role in recyclers’ decision-making on setting prices for acquiring waste products from consumers. Furthermore, it is also found that waste products acquisition price and recyclers’ processing cost are the key factors that affect large and small recyclers’ recycling quantity.
Removal of refractory organics from landfill leachate by in situ electrogenerated H2O2 combined with an Fe0 Fenton-like process
Authors: Li Zhiheng , Bai Jie , Li Yihui , Wang Fan
Published: December 2022

Landfill leachate contains a large amount of refractory organic matter, which will cause harm to the environment if not appropriately treated. In this study, the refractory organic matter in landfill leachate has been treated by in situ electrogenerated H2O2 combined with an Fe0 Fenton-like process, aiming to explore a cleaner and more efficient process for leachate treatment. The results showed that the current, initial pH and oxygen flow rate have significant influences on H2O2 production. The current and oxygen flow rate are positively correlated with H2O2 production, and neutral conditions are more favourable. Under the conditions of a current of 200 mA, an initial pH of 7.0 and an oxygen flow rate of 0.3 L/min, H2O2 production reached 2.81 mM, the current efficiency was close to 80% and the highest removal efficiency of organic matter reached 40.70%. The absorbance at 280 nm ( E280) decreased from 0.1669 to 0.1180, and the ratios E240/ E420, E250/ E365 and E300/ E400 in the UV and visible regions changed from 0.7825, 5.4492 and 0.2422 to 1.3135, 7.3745 and 0.2966, respectively. The maximum fluorescence intensities due to humic-like acid and fulvic-like acid substances decreased from 1275 and 1246 to 595.9 and 711.0, respectively. Spectral analysis further showed that the complex structure of refractory organic matter in the landfill leachate was obviously destroyed, and the relative content of humus decreased significantly. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the effective treatment of refractory organic matter in landfill leachate by in situ electrogenerated H2O2 combined with a Fenton-like process.
Help-Seeking for Severe Intimate Partner Violence Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adolescents and Young Adults Assigned Female at birth: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Scheer Jillian R. , Lawlace Margaret , Cascalheira Cory J. , Newcomb Michael E. , Whitton Sarah W.
Published: December 2022

Sexual and gender minority adolescents and young adults assigned female at birth (SGM-AFAB) report high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization. Despite adverse health outcomes of IPV, many survivors, particularly SGM-AFAB, do not seek help. This study (1) examined the proportion of SGM-AFAB who reported severe IPV victimization who sought help; (2) elucidated patterns of help-seeking facilitators and barriers; and (3) identified associations between sociodemographic characteristics, IPV victimization types, and minority stressors and latent classes of help-seeking facilitators and barriers. Participants included 193 SGM-AFAB (Mage = 20.6, SD = 3.4; 65.8% non-monosexual; 73.1% cisgender; 72.5% racial/ethnic minority; 16.6% annual household income $20,000 or less). Most participants who experienced severe IPV did not seek help (62.2%). Having a person or provider who was aware of the participant’s abusive relationship was the most common reason for seeking help (50; 68.5%). Minimizing IPV was the most common reason for not seeking help (103; 87.3%). Fewer than 5% of SGM-AFAB who experienced severe IPV and who did not seek help reported SGM-specific help-seeking barriers, including not wanting to contribute to negative perceptions of the LGBTQ community, not disclosing their SGM status, and perceiving a lack of tailored services. Help-seeking facilitators and barriers varied by sociodemographic characteristics. Three classes of help-seeking facilitators and two classes of help-seeking barriers emerged. SGM-AFAB subgroups based on sexual and gender identity, recent coercive control, and identity as IPV victims differed in latent classes. This study’s findings confirm SGM-AFAB IPV survivors’ low likelihood of seeking help. Our results also underscore the importance of continuing to bolster SGM-AFAB survivors’ access to trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and affirming support. Further, multilevel prevention and intervention efforts are needed to reduce minimization of abuse and anticipatory judgment and blame among SGM-AFAB who hold multiple marginalized identities, experience coercive control, and identify as IPV victims.
Typical Drinking, Sensation Seeking, and Alcohol Expectancies Regarding Sexual Coercion as Predictors of Coercive Condom Use Resistance Perpetration
Authors: Kirwan Mitchell , VanDaalen Rachel A. , Eldridge Nolan , Davis Kelly Cue
Published: December 2022

Although condoms are effective at preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies, condom use resistance (CUR) remains prominent. In particular, coercive CUR, or the use of coercive tactics to resist condom use with a partner who wants to use one, comprises a unique combination of sexual aggression and risky sexual behaviors, making it especially problematic. The present study sought to examine the relationship between coercive CUR and a variety of factors associated with both sexual aggression and risky sexual behaviors (e.g., typical alcohol consumption, alcohol expectancies regarding sexual aggression, and sensation seeking) to determine whether such factors may also contribute to the etiology of coercive CUR. To do so, a nationwide study of 102 young, heterosexual men who had previously perpetrated coercive CUR were recruited to complete an online, cross-sectional survey. Data were analyzed using a hierarchical linear regression model, which showed that alcohol expectancies regarding sexual coercion and sensation seeking moderated the relationship between typical drinking quantity and previous coercive CUR perpetration, such that typical drinking was positively associated with coercive CUR among men who reported greater sensation seeking and alcohol expectancies regarding sexual coercion. However, among men who were low in one or both of these factors, typical drinking was not associated with coercive CUR. These results suggest that typical drinking, alcohol expectancies, and sensation seeking may all be important to the etiology of coercive CUR, and that a reduction in one or more may be sufficient to reduce the likelihood of coercive CUR perpetration. Future research should confirm these findings using experimental and/or longitudinal methodologies and seek to develop intervention programs targeting typical alcohol use, alcohol expectancies related to sexual coercion, and sensation seeking in young men.
Preliminary Efficacy of a Cognitive Restructuring Intervention for Intimate Partner Aggression: Emotional Clarity as a Mechanism of Change
Authors: Hammett Julia F. , Chen Weiqi , Stappenbeck Cynthia A. , Davis Kelly Cue
Published: December 2022

Despite the fact that intimate partner aggression (IPA) is a widespread public health problem, empirically supported interventions for IPA are limited. Furthermore, existing interventions tend to be resource-intensive and may not adequately address the risk factors that serve to maintain IPA, resulting in challenges to intervention dissemination and implementation. Based on theoretical and empirical findings linking emotional clarity and IPA, this study represents a secondary data analysis to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of a brief web-based cognitive restructuring (CR) intervention to reduce psychological and physical IPA perpetration intentions by increasing emotional clarity skills. In all, 137 men were randomized into a CR intervention versus control condition and subsequently completed an aggression analog scenario. Results of structural equation modeling analyses showed a significant indirect effect of the intervention on psychological IPA intentions via increased emotional clarity. Specifically, men in the CR intervention condition evidenced greater emotional clarity as compared to men in the control condition, which, in turn, was related to lower intentions to perpetrate psychological IPA. The indirect effect from the CR intervention to physical IPA intentions via emotional clarity was not statistically significant. These findings provide promising initial support for the usefulness of the current CR intervention in reducing psychological IPA. Next steps in this line of research include expansion to a randomized controlled trial that tests intervention effects on real-world IPA perpetration across more diverse samples. Importantly, our findings highlight that CR skills can be delivered via a brief web-based intervention, which decreases potential barriers to dissemination and implementation.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems and Economic Development Policy
Authors: Qian Haifeng , Acs Zoltan J.
Published: December 2022

The authors discuss economic development policy facing the burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem research. They aim to answer four questions. First, how are entrepreneurial ecosystems different from regional innovation systems and clusters, two related frameworks that had been vastly popular among economic development policy makers prior to the rise of entrepreneurial ecosystems? Second, what are the key findings in the entrepreneurial ecosystem research that can guide economic development policy making? Third, how should economic development policy be adjusted under the entrepreneurial ecosystem approach? Finally, what does the ongoing debate on the geographical boundaries of entrepreneurial ecosystems mean for economic development policy?
Relationships of Low Cognitive Performance and Sleep Disorder With Functional Disabilities Among Older Adults
Authors: Alam Rifat , Quintero Silva Laura , Jahan Nilufer , Chodzko-Zajko Wojtek , Ogunjesa Babatope , Selzer Ninomiya Ana , Schwingel Andiara
Published: December 2022

Objectives

This study examined the relationships of low cognitive performance and sleep disorder with functional disabilities among older adults. Methods: NHANES 2011–2014 data on 3179 individuals [Mage=69.71] were analyzed. Functional domains included: activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL (IADL) and leisure and social activities (LSA). Animal Fluency Test and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test assessed cognitive performance. Participants self-reported having physician-diagnosed sleep disorder. Results: Participants with both low cognitive performance and sleep disorder had 4- to 10-times greater odds for ADL, IADL, and LSA difficulties compared to the participants with no low cognitive performance/sleep disorder. Participants with only low cognitive performance and those with only sleep disorder were two to three times more likely to experience these difficulties. Discussion: Low cognitive performance and sleep disorder together or independently were associated with functional disabilities. Participants with both low cognitive performance and sleep disorder had higher odds of functional disabilities.
Investigation on optimum lengths of railway clothoid transition curves based on passenger ride comfort
Authors: Sadeghi Javad , Rabiee Saeed , Felekari Peyman , Khajehdezfuly Amin
Published: December 2022

Transition curves are considered as inevitable parts of railways. As they tend to bend the train’s course of movement, the passengers ride comfort and safety are strongly challenged. Although many investigations have performed on the dynamic behavior characteristics of transition curves, only a few studies have focused on the optimum transition length based on the ride comfort index. In response to this need, a vehicle-track dynamic model was developed. The results obtained from model were compared with those available in the literature to prove the validity of the model. Through a parametric study, the dynamic responses of a vehicle passing through the transition curves was studied using the model developed in this study. The ride comfort index was obtained using the dynamic response of the vehicle. The lateral jerk, vertical acceleration, and rolling velocity were considered as the dynamic response of the vehicle. The optimum transition curve length for various configurations of curve radius and super-elevation magnitudes were investigated based on the obtained ride comfort.
Well-Being and Cognitive Resilience to Dementia-Related Neuropathology
Authors: Willroth Emily C. , James Bryan D. , Graham Eileen K. , Kapasi Alifiya , Bennett David A. , Mroczek Daniel K.
Published: December 2022

Not all older adults with dementia-related neuropathology in their brains experience cognitive decline or impairment. Instead, some people maintain relatively normal cognitive functioning despite neuropathologic burden, a phenomenon called cognitive resilience. Using a longitudinal, epidemiological, clinical-pathologic cohort study of older adults in the United States ( N = 348), the present research investigated associations between well-being and cognitive resilience. Consistent with preregistered hypotheses, results showed that higher eudaimonic well-being (measured via the Ryff Psychological Well-Being Scale) and higher hedonic well-being (measured via the Satisfaction with Life Scale) were associated with better-than-expected cognitive functioning relative to one’s neuropathological burden (i.e., beta-amyloid, neurofibrillary tangles, Lewy bodies, vascular pathologies, hippocampal sclerosis, and TDP-43). The association of eudaimonic well-being in particular was present above and beyond known cognitive resilience factors (i.e., socioeconomic status, education, cognitive activity, low neuroticism, low depression) and dementia risk factors (i.e., apolipoprotein E [ ApoE] genotype, medical comorbidities). This research highlights the importance of considering eudaimonic well-being in efforts to prevent dementia.
The moderating role of natural resources between governance and CO2 emissions: Evidence from MENA countries
Authors: Sadaoui Naima , Zabat Lotfi , Sekrafi Habib , Abid Mehdi
Published: December 2022

Despite the diversity of theoretical studies, natural resources’ moderating role between governance indicators and environmental quality remains a controversial issue. The purpose of this paper is therefore to clarify the nature of this role in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries from 1996 to 2017 relying on the generalized method of moments system estimators. The empirical results reveal that corruption control, political stability, rule of law, voice and accountability, and government effectiveness increase CO2 emissions, while regulation quality does not affect CO2 emissions. Our findings also show that FDI and GDP increase CO2 emissions. However, natural resources moderate the governance indicators to reduce CO2 emissions. Therefore, policy-makers should increase public awareness of the best use of natural resources. Thus, improving governments’ institutional framework will generally contribute to reducing the greenhouse gas emission levels in the MENA countries.
Different pregnancy outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with belimumab
Authors: Lai Yupeng , Li Bin , Huang Jiaming , Du Jingning , Yue Mengli , Shen Xin , Liu Xingjiao , Huang Lingfeng , Lin Jiehua , Yang Aicheng , Wang Meiying
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) predominantly occurs in women of child-bearing age. Selecting drugs for pregnant SLE patients has always been a difficult choice. Although there have been several reports of safety of belimumab in SLE patients during pregnancy, the data are far from sufficient.

Methods

We report on 4 cases of belimumab exposure in pregnant SLE patients. We also summarized 6 case reports and case series which were previously published. Further, we compared the different outcomes among SLE patients and their babies who continued with belimumab during pregnancy with those who discontinued belimumab in early pregnancy.

Results

Two cases discontinued belimumab in the early pregnancy, while the other two received belimumab until the late pregnancy. All the four women tolerated belimumab. Newborns have all developed normally and continue without complications during 1 year of follow-up.

Conclusion

In this small case series, we found that belimumab was well tolerated in pregnant SLE patients. There were no safety signals for the mothers or their babies.
Influencing factors of self-disclosure and its impact on quality of life in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Hu Yang , Gao Rui-Chen , Sang Ni , Wu Li , Shi Pei-Li , Wu Guo-Cui
Published: December 2022

Background

Self-disclosure may enhance positive illness perceptions, whereas patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) always facing negative illness perceptions due to multiple reasons, so elucidation of factors affecting self-disclosure may facilitate the development of quality of life.

Methods

A total of 161 hospitalized patients with SLE were recruited. Scales on demographic and clinical characteristics, self-disclosure, psychosocial status (e.g. Social Support Rating Scale – SSRS) and quality of life were used to collect related information from clients. Univariate analysis was performed by Kruskal–Wallis rank-sum test or chi-square test, and multivariate analysis by ordinal logistic regression.

Results

Social support, drinking, depression and cause of hospitalization were found to be influencing factors of self-disclosure. Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that the significant and independent factors associated with self-disclosure in patients with SLE were social support, drinking and depression. Domains of LupusQoL, except physical health and fatigue, were positively correlated with self-disclosure.

Conclusions

With the increase of social support, the level of self-disclosure become worse, drinking, depression and cause of hospitalization are risk factors for it. Moreover, the level of self-disclosure is positively related to the LupusQoL. Medical staff should formulate effective measures according to the results to improve self-disclosure in patients with SLE and promote their quality of life.
‘First Essentials of Survival’: Ensuring the Support and Compliance of Civilians in the Guerrilla Conflict with Japan on Panay, 1942–1945
Authors: Maddox Kelly
Published: December 2022

This article offers a detailed examination of the strategies employed by the resistance leadership in Panay to mobilize and, if necessary, coerce civilians into supporting them in their guerrilla conflict with Japan. It argues that their ability to adapt and, thereby, continually ensure the support and compliance of the civilian population were as important, if not more so, to their overall success than strictly military accomplishments. The primary aim of this article is to bring the importance of civilians into focus and deepen our historical understanding of a much-understudied and understated aspect of resistance to Japanese occupation in the Philippines.
Book review: Kadira Pethiyagoda, Indian Foreign Policy and Cultural Values
Authors: Bhat Mukhtar Ahmad
Published: December 2022

Kadira Pethiyagoda, Indian Foreign Policy and Cultural Values (Palgrave Macmillan, 2021). pp. 359, ₹8221. ISBN-10: 3030546950.
More Tools for Evaluating Decidual Artery Disease
Authors: Olaya-C Mercedes , Franco Zuluaga Jorge A.
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy continue to pose the most important risks for adverse maternal and neonatal outcome. Among histological findings, decidual artery disease is one of the most common, one that has both good reproducibility among observers and whose abnormal vascular remodeling is the sole aspect of preeclampsia pathophysiology on which experts agree. Nevertheless, some aspects of arterial remodeling alterations are still under investigation. Methods: We selected 720 routine and consecutive placenta case studies, concordant with the Amsterdam consensus. From these studies, we collected maternal and neonatal clinical data and specific placental findings on spiral artery abnormalities. We took into account all criteria for decidual arteriopathy. Two hundred and fifteen (215) cases out of this population presented hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Additional to expected arterial findings, we noted frequent persistent parietal trophoblast lining. Results: A large proportion of our population developed hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (30%). Among the histologic findings reported for preeclampsia, we paid particular attention to spiral artery abnormalities, and this interpretive analysis revealed high frequency of arterial remodeling abnormalities. We examined two additional aspects in our routine analysis: first, the novel one of parietal trophoblast persistence, and second, the established problem of associated acute inflammation, as a possible pitfall. Conclusion: In order to better understood, spiral maternal artery remodeling merits further study. The abnormalities in this process provide an objective tool in the study and diagnosis of important pregnancy complications; furthermore, abnormal remodeling is an expression of early pregnancy alteration, and subsequently related to preeclampsia etiology.
Safety and Effectiveness of Medical Therapy and Surgical Intervention for Renal Angiomyolipoma Associated With Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Wang Zhiyu , Zhang Wei , Fan Yafeng , Zhang Xuepei
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of daily oral dose of everolimus in the treatment of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) associated with renal angiomyolipoma (RAML), and the feasibility and safety of surgical treatment approach.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated a total of 13 patients diagnosed of TSC-associated renal angiomyolipoma (TSC-RAML) who were scheduled for everolimus therapy. At 3-9 months after starting everolimus therapy, 4 of the study patients were symptomatic and underwent partial renal resection surgery. Two of these surgeries were performed open nephron sparing surgery (NSS) after TAE (Trans-arterial embolization), while the remaining 2 underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN). A multi-slice helical CT scan performed among all the patients every 3 months, which was used to measure the volume and the density of the lesion.

Results

Follow-up CT images revealed a significant reduction (P < .05) in the RAML volume, at a rate ranging from 11.6 to 42.5%, in response to everolimus therapy (10 mg/day) in TSC-RAML patients. Further, a significant decrease in the mean tumor density (P < .05), as compared to its baseline value, was also observed. Super-selective renal arterial embolization done prior to NSS was effective in reducing the intraoperative bleeding and stabilizing the patient during the NSS procedure: mean warm ischemia time was 29.5 minutes (range 18-40 minutes) and mean intraoperative bleeding volume was 275 mL (range 200-350 mL). Post-surgical (both NSS and RAPN) follow-up showed a favorable perioperative morbidity profile with good renal functional preservation. At the end of 2 years, all patients were well, with no signs of progression or recurrence of the condition, and demonstrated normal renal function.

Conclusions

The results suggested oral everolimus as an effective non-invasive therapy to treat TSC-RAML patients. Post mTOR inhibitor therapy, NSS and RAPN are preferred mode of surgical intervention in symptomatic patients. TAE prior to NSS is beneficial.
Management of inflammation in dry eye disease: Recommendations from a European panel of experts
Authors: Messmer Elisabeth M , Ahmad Sajjad , Benitez del Castillo José M , Mrukwa-Kominek Ewa , Rolando Maurizio , Vitovska Oksana , Baudouin Christophe ,   on behalf of a panel of European dry eye disease experts
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Early initiation of anti-inflammatory therapies is recommended for dry eye disease (DED) to break the vicious cycle of pathophysiology. However, there is limited guidance on how to implement topical ciclosporin (CsA) and corticosteroid treatment into clinical practice. This expert-led consensus provides practical guidance on the management of DED, including when and how to use topical CsA.

Methods

A steering committee (SC) of seven European DED experts developed a questionnaire to gain information on the unmet needs and management of DED in clinical practice. Consensus statements on four key areas (disease severity and progression; patient management; efficacy, safety and tolerability of CsA; and patient education) were generated based on the responses. The SC and an expanded expert panel of 22 members used a nine-point scale (1  =  strongly disagree; 9  =  strongly agree) to rate statements; a consensus was reached if ≥75% of experts scored a statement ≥7.

Results

A stepwise approach to DED management is required in patients presenting with moderate corneal staining. Early topical CsA initiation, alone or with corticosteroids, should be considered in patients with clinical risk factors for severe DED. Patient education is required before and during treatment to manage expectations regarding efficacy and tolerability in order to optimise adherence. Follow-up visits are required, ideally at Month 1 and every 3 months thereafter. Topical CsA may be continued indefinitely, especially when surgery is required.

Conclusion

This consensus fills some of the knowledge gaps in previous recommendations regarding the use of topical corticosteroids and CsA in patients with DED.
Femtosecond laser-assisted Bowman layer transplantation for advanced keratoconus
Authors: Barbosa Gonçalves Thiago , Forseto Adriana dos Santos , Martins Anderson de Lima , Pereira Nicolas Cesário
Published: December 2022

Background/Aims

To assess the technical feasibility and outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted Bowman layer transplantation (FLABOLT) in stabilizing progressive, advanced keratoconus, which is ineligible for corneal crosslinking.

Methods

This single-center retrospective study included 50 eyes of 49 patients with progressive advanced keratoconus, ineligible for corneal crosslinking, that underwent FLABOLT with both the donor graft and recipient mid-stromal pocket using a femtosecond laser.

Results

The mean follow-up was 13.2 ± 4.9 months (range 7–35 months). Donor graft preparation and accurate dissection of the recipient mid-stromal pocket were successful in 96% and 100% of cases, respectively. The mean maximum keratometry decreased by 1.93 D at 6 months after surgery and there was no change in the mean preoperative best contact lens-corrected visual acuity (BCLVA). Three eyes developed hydrops postoperatively and recovered after clinical treatment. One eye that achieved useful BCLVA postoperatively, worsened 2 years after the surgery due to progressive corneal scarring and required corneal transplantation for visual rehabilitation. Preoperative corneal scarring was a risk factor for BCLVA loss. All other eyes remained stable (92%), and no other procedure was required until the last follow-up.

Conclusion

In this series, FLABOLT was successfully performed as an alternative to stabilize advanced progressive keratoconus. This technique is highly reproducible for graft preparation and recipient pocket dissection when assisted by femtosecond laser. Despite promising initial results, more studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of FLABOLT in stabilizing advanced progressive keratoconus.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Facial Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Nguyen Brian J. , Meer Elana A. , Bautista Sana A. , Kim Diana H. , Etzkorn Jeremy R. , McGeehan Brendan , Miller Christopher J. , Briceno Cesar A.
Published: December 2022

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare malignant cutaneous tumor with frequent metastases. They often appear in the face where cosmetic and functional outcome is critical. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a controlled intervention that optimizes negative margins without sacrificing tissue.

Objective

A comprehensive assessment of outcomes of MMS-treated facial MCC will help guide clinicians in surgical and medical management.

Methods & Materials

Retrospective review identified facial MCC cases treated with MMS at a single institution from January 2005 to August 2020. Tumor characteristics and outcomes were recorded and descriptive and predictive analyses were performed.

Results

34 cases were reviewed with a mean followup of 34.4 months. The most common sites were the forehead, cheek-jaw region, and nasal ala. 2 (5.9%) patients had local recurrence by a mean of 4.3 months. No documented variables were significantly associated with local recurrence. 8 (23.5%) patients had progression to metastasis by a mean of 9.4 months. Younger age at biopsy and surgery, male sex, and intraoperative detection of in-transit disease were significantly associated with progression to metastasis.

Conclusions

In summary, the tissue-sparing approach of MMS may be beneficial for MCC in cosmetically and functionally sensitive facial locations as it preserves tissue without compromising outcomes.
Successful Use of Percutaneous Dissolvable Sutures During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Gallop Joshua , Andrasik Wyatt , Lucas Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had dramatic effects on all fields of medicine, including an effort to limit in-person visits. Within dermatologic surgery, one strategy is to close surgical incisions using percutaneous absorbable sutures. To the authors’ knowledge, there are no large studies comparing changes in suture preferences and subsequent outcomes during the pandemic.

Objective

To assess changes in suture preference and frequency of post-operative complications for percutaneous absorbable and non-absorbable sutures during the pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective review of 1358 Mohs surgeries completed at the Cleveland Clinic during a 2-month period prior to COVID-19 and a matched 2-month period during the pandemic.

Results

Sutures were used to close 1103 cases. Significantly more closures were performed with percutaneous absorbable sutures during COVID-19 (87.6%, 39.6%; P < .0001). There was no significant difference in the frequency of post-operative complications between suture materials ( P = .48). The use of absorbable sutures were associated with a significantly higher frequency of suture hypersensitivity reaction ( P = .020) but significantly lower frequency of infection ( P = .021) and wound dehiscence ( P < .0001).

Conclusions

Suture preference shifted towards absorbable sutures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Percutaneous absorbable sutures offered a formidable alternative to non-absorbable sutures and could reduce in-person follow-up visits without increasing post-operative complications.
‘People tell me quite intimate things’: The circulation of feelings and vague intimacy on politicised Instagram
Authors: Lehto Mari , Mannevuo Mona
Published: December 2022

In recent years, Instagram has become an increasingly politicised platform. Even those who have become popular for producing lifestyle content have begun to merge societal issues with personal and commercial posts. In this article, we explore how popular Finnish influencers experience the new expectations set for them and how they handle the mixture of intimate and algorithmic logics of Instagram. Our analysis draws from eight semi-structured, in-depth interviews with influencers and influencer agency representatives. Theoretically, we use the lexicon of cultural and media theory to examine Instagram as a platform for vague intimacy, where feelings and commercial exchange flourish and circulate in proximity to the political. The article revolves around three interconnected themes arising from the data: problems in producing political content for everyone, Instagram as a platform of likeness and the fear of an exploding inbox.
What does it mean to flourish? Piloting the flourishing measure with adolescents and young adults with mood and anxiety disorders
Authors: Kelly-Hedrick Margot , Lhaksampa Tenzin C , Chisolm Margaret S , Miller Leslie
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Treatment for adolescents and young adults with mood and anxiety disorders typically focuses on recovery of symptoms and improvement in functioning. Measuring positive states of health—using self-report surveys such as the Flourishing Measure—may help to promote holistic treatment. We piloted the Flourishing Measure—Adolescent Version in a clinical sample of adolescents and young adults with mood and/or anxiety disorders to determine appropriateness and acceptability in this population.

Methods: We recruited adolescents (age 12–18) and young adults (age 19–25) with mood and/or anxiety disorders from an outpatient psychiatry clinic associated with an academic hospital. We used cognitive interviewing, a method used in survey development that determines whether respondents’ understanding aligns with instrument intention. Participants completed the Flourishing Measure and answered questions about their impressions of items.

Results: Sixteen participants (10 adolescents and 6 young adults) participated in the study. Participants generally understood the concept of flourishing and the intention of individual items. The items were generally considered clear and participants offered minor suggestions for improvement in wording of the items.

Discussion: Participants in our study understood the meaning of flourishing, as well as individual items in the measure. The Flourishing Measure may be suitable for use in clinical and research settings for adolescents and young adults, though piloting with larger, more diverse samples is needed.
Surveillance practices among migration officers: Online media and LGBTQ+ refugees
Authors: Lunau Marie , Andreassen Rikke
Published: December 2022

Examining Denmark as a case study, and focusing on LGBTQ+ asylum seekers in particular, this article investigates migration authorities’ use of online surveillance to assess claims for asylum. Drawing on interviews with migration officers and asylum seekers, the article describes how asylum seekers’ social media and phone content comes to determine whether they are seen as having a ‘genuine’ or a ‘fraudulent’ LGBTQ+ identity. The article further shows how surveillance implicates asylum seekers’ movement and (im)mobility, thereby ‘fixing’ their identities across time, preventing their ephemeral online engagement and, ultimately, affecting the outcome of their asylum claims. It also argues that the utilisation of surveillance technologies (for example, to review porn consumption and dating applications) favours gay (cis) men, while depriving lesbian, bisexual and transgender asylum seekers of opportunities to prove their identity.
Flash pyrolysis vacuum ultraviolet photoionization mass spectrometry of cycloheptane: A study of the initial decomposition mechanism
Authors: Shao Kuanliang , Sun Ge , Gomez Mariah , Liu Xinghua , Zhang Jingsong
Published: December 2022

Thermal decomposition of cycloheptane was studied using flash pyrolysis coupled with vacuum ultraviolet (118.2 nm) single photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry at temperatures ranging from 295 K to 1380 K. C-C bond breaking of cycloheptane leading to the 1,7-heptyl diradical was considered as the initiation step. The 1,7-heptyl diradical could readily isomerize to 1-heptene and decompose into several fragments, with dissociation to •C4H9 and •C3H5 as the predominant product channel. The 1,7-heptyl diradical could undergo direct dissociation, as evidenced by the production of the C5H10 species. Quantum chemistry calculations at UCCSD(T)/cc-pVDZ//UB3LYP/cc-pVDZ level of theory on the initial reaction pathways of cycloheptane were also carried out to support the experimental observations. Other possible initiation channels, as well as some secondary reaction products, were also identified.
Ultrasonic evaluation for the detection of contact defects of the timber and fiber-reinforced polymer
Authors: Ramezanpour Kami Moein , Toufigh Vahab
Published: December 2022

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been used tremendously to repair and rehabilitate timber structures due to their formability, ease of use, and high specific strength. The bond quality between FRP and timber substrate is critical for complete composite action. In this paper, a comprehensive set of linear and nonlinear ultrasonic methods was performed to investigate the bond between carbon-FRP (CFRP) and timber. For this purpose, 126 specimens of reinforced timber were prepared. Two techniques were considered to bond CFRP and timber: (1) externally bonded reinforcement (EBR), and (2) externally bonded reinforcement on the groove (EBROG). The effect of the number of CFRP layers, adhesive types, the extent of artificial surface defects, and the depth of the groove were contemplated. By analyzing linear methods, differences in stiffness and modulus of elasticity of CFRP and timber led to velocity variation and attenuation phenomena. Higher-order harmonics were also used to investigate the nonlinear behavior of ultrasonic waves at the bond. The second harmonic generation detected surface damage at CFRP and timber bond. Single-lap shear tests were employed to determine the bond strength of CFRP and timber and evaluate the accuracy of the linear and nonlinear methods. Finally, using the linear and nonlinear features extracted from the ultrasonic response signals and available physical parameters, three artificial neural networks (ANNs) were developed to predict three important CFRP-to-timber bond characteristics quantitively: (1) to predict the groove depth, (2) to predict the volume of voids, and (3) to predict the CFRP-to-timber bond strength. The three proposed models achieved an average [Formula: see text] of 0.95, 0.96, and 0.92 in predicting the groove depth, voids volume, and bond strength, respectively.