bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-attention network for pedestrian intention prediction based on spatio-temporal feature fusion
Authors: Zhang Xiaofei , Wang Xiaolan , Zhang Weiwei , Wang Yansong , Liu Xintian , Wei Dan
Published: August 2023

An essential prerequisite for autonomous vehicles deploying in urban scenarios is the ability to accurately recognize the behavioral intentions of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users and take measures to ensure their safety. In this paper, a spatial-temporal feature fusion-based multi-attention network (STFF-MANet) is designed to predict pedestrian crossing intention. Pedestrian information, vehicle information, scene context, and optical flow are extracted from continuous image sequences as feature sources. A lightweight 3D convolutional network is designed to extract temporal features from optical flow. Construct a spatial encoding module to extract the spatial features from the context. Pedestrian motion information are re-encoded using a collection of gated recurrent units. The final network structure is created through ablation research, which introduces attention mechanisms into the network to merge pedestrian motion features and spatio-temporal features. The efficiency of the suggested strategy is demonstrated by comparison experiments on the datasets JAAD and PIE. On the JAAD dataset, the intent recognition accuracy is 9% more accurate than the existing techniques.
Pressure loss control in a rotor-stator cavity with inward throughflow
Authors: Shen Xin , Liu Jun , Wang Pei , Du Qiang , Liu Guang , Lian Zengyan
Published: August 2023

The back cavity of a centrifugal impeller is a typical rotor-stator cavity system with centripetal inflow in small or medium-sized aeroengines. In this paper, the effectiveness of using the “vortex control hole” structure to control the pressure loss in such a cavity is studied with experiment and numerical simulation. Vortex control hole refers to the passage connecting the internal and external air flow of the cavity. It distributes on the stationary casing circumferentially with a well-designed angle to produce an opposite tangential velocity to the main flow, thus reducing the tangential velocity of the main flow in the cavity. By controlling the swirl ratio, the pressure loss at cavity outlet could be decreased. The rotating Reynolds number Re φ = 6 × 105∼2.4 × 106, and turbulence parameter λt = 0.21∼0.55. Since the mainstream velocity has no tangential component at the inlet, it is considered that the inlet swirl ratio β0 is 0. The numerical simulation results were compared with the experimental results. The flow structure, the distribution of the swirl ratio, and the static pressure loss at the outlet of the cavity under different secondary air stream rates will be given. The coupling mechanism between the secondary airflow and the main flow in the cavity and the mechanism of the secondary air stream reducing the pressure loss in the disc cavity will be analyzed.
What then is time?: A case sample of teaching time and engaging temporal reflexivity using a reflective time journal activity
Authors: Young Anna Navin
Published: August 2023

The current article presents a three-stage approach to teaching time in an applied psychology setting. The approach focuses on nurturing temporal reflexivity by having students reflect on their time-use and draw attention to their subjective experiences of time. Activities, discussions, and practical demonstrations are used to guide students through personal, collective, theoretical, and practical lenses of engaging with time. This case sample is taught to postgraduate students and practitioners in coaching psychology and positive psychology. Teaching within this context is discussed, along with the pedagogical practices employed to create a reflective and interactive learning environment. One primary activity, a reflective time journal, is presented as a tool for other educators to consider in their teaching of temporal reflexivity. Further consideration is given to the general challenges of teaching time, including limited temporal resources, and acknowledgements of disciplinary, pedagogical, and personal positionalities. This case sample of teaching time may be of particular interest (1) for those looking to facilitate awareness of subjective experiences of time within the classroom (something we might refer to as temporal reflexivity), and (2) for those who teach in an applied setting where students are often practitioners or future practitioners looking for strategies that will practically inform their work.
FDI Inflows and Urbanization: A Cross-country Comparison from Asia, Africa and Latin America
Authors: Bhattacharya Mita , Behera Smruti Ranjan , Dash Devi Prasad , Apergis Nicholas
Published: August 2023

Since the last three decades, urbanization has been considered an engine of economic development and attracting foreign investment, particularly for developing countries. We explore the role of urbanization upon inward foreign direct investment (FDI) for a panel of 58 developing economies from Asia, Africa and Latin America. Empirical results reveal a complementary relationship between urbanization and FDI. Moreover, empirical findings suggest that urbanization in developing economies reaps positive benefits from FDI, provides MNCs with a safe investment climate and facilitates FDI inflows. Further, empirical results reflect the role of sociopolitical openness and infrastructure (in particular, energy and transport) in fostering FDI inflows. We suggest fostering appropriate infrastructure and sociopolitical openness will accelerate urban development and create a conducive environment for FDI inflows. Governments and policy practitioners should implement policies to mobilize foreign capital to accelerate urbanization.
Was There a Universal Homicide Increase in 2014 to 2016 and 2019 to 2020?
Authors: Rogers Meghan L.
Published: August 2023

This article explores whether there was a universal increase in homicide victimization in 2014 to 2016 and 2019 to 2020. Although the United States observed increases in homicide victimization in 2014 to 2016 and 2019 to 2002, it is unlikely that all nations observed simultaneous increases in homicide victimization. Therefore, we explore whether countries observed increases in homicide victimization from 2014 to 2016, only part of the time, and before and after 2014 to 2016. We also investigated which nations observed an increase in homicide victimization from 2019 to 2020. We used WHO mortality homicide victimization data for an initial sample of 116 nations. In general, it does not appear that there was a simultaneous universal increase in the times under study. However, most of the sample at some point between 2014 and 2016 experienced increases in homicide victimization.
Stakeholder Perspectives of Experiential Education in Tertiary Institutions and Learning From COVID-19
Authors: Chidwick Hanna , Kapiriri Lydia , Chen En Chi
Published: August 2023

Background

Many universities in Canada offer experiential education (EE) opportunities for students that are both field-based and on-campus. Despite a commitment to EE, there is a paucity of information about various stakeholder perspectives of EE and the equity implications of the different approaches to EE. Furthermore, it is unclear how EE programs at universities changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions.

Purpose

This study aims to explore stakeholder perspectives of EE experiences and understand the shifts to EE, perhaps towards more equitable and accessible EE opportunities, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology/Approach

We used an exploratory case study approach involving a survey with university students, interviews with university instructors and community organizations, and a document review, to understand stakeholder perspectives and shifts to EE due to COVID-19.

Findings/Conclusions

Findings suggest that there are consistent benefits of EE, and barriers to EE, across student, instructor, and organization perspectives, where learning from changes prompted by the pandemic could be beneficial to increase equity in EE.

Implications

We recommend that instructors and institutions continue to work in partnership with students and community organizations to build virtual, on-campus, and local field-based EE (FBEE) opportunities that aim to increase equitable access and impact.
Retrograde Drilling and Bone Graft for Hepple Stage V Subchondral Bone Lesion of Talus Using 3D Image–Based Navigation-Assisted Endoscopic Technique
Authors: Wu Xinchen , Zhong Yanjun , Wei Shijun , Wu Helin , Zheng Boyu , Xu Feng
Published: August 2023

Background:

Retrograde drilling remains technically challenging, because of the difficulty of identifying the accurate location of cysts during surgery. This study’s aim was to evaluate the 3-dimensional (3D) image–based surgical navigation-assisted endoscopic retrograde drilling technique for subchondral bone lesions of the talus.

Methods:

From March 2017 to June 2020, a total of 21 cases with Hepple stage V subchondral bone lesions of the talus were treated with 3D image–based surgical navigation-assisted endoscopic retrograde drilling and bone graft technique. Arthroscopic views were categorized per Pritsch classifications. The correlation between the drilled tunnel with preoperative cystic lesions were assessed under postoperative computer tomographic (CT) scans. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) sports scales were evaluated at the preoperative and final consultation. All complications were recorded.

Results:

On postoperative CT scans, in 20 cases (95.2%), the drilled tunnel was judged to have been in the center of previous cysts. Only 9 cases (42.9%) showed intact normal cartilage (grade 0, group A); 12 cases (57.1%) had intact, but soft, cartilage (grade I, group B). The median follow-up time was 24 (24, 30) months, and at final follow-up, there were no significant differences between the mean AOFAS and VAS scores in both groups (89.0 ± 6.4 vs 88.3 ± 7.0 and 1 vs 0.5) or postoperative FAAM sports scales (28.2 ± 2.2 vs 26.6 ± 4.9, P = .363). Two patients had revision surgery in group B.

Conclusion:

The 3D image–based surgical navigation-assisted endoscopic retrograde drilling and bone graft technique for the subchondral bone lesions of the talus in this small case series showed encouraging results.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Late-onset cardiotoxicity in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer receiving trastuzumab-based therapy
Authors: Alowais Shuroug A. , Luk Samantha O. , Kim E. Bridget , Alsuhebany Nada , Zangardi Mark
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) typically receive long-term trastuzumab treatment for several years. The aim of our study is to identify the incidence and characterize late-onset cardiotoxicity in patients with HER2-positive MBC receiving trastuzumab-based therapy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed charts of HER2-positive MBC patients who received >1 year of trastuzumab-based therapy at the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center over three-year period. The primary endpoint was development of trastuzumab-induced cardiotoxicity (TIC). Secondary endpoints included time to TIC development, incidence/duration of trastuzumab interruption due to TIC, incidence of permanent discontinuation of trastuzumab due to TIC, clinic visit, or hospitalization due to TIC.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were included. Mean age was 56 years (range: 33–78 years, SD 9.5). Seven patients received prior doxorubicin and 14 patients received previous or concurrent breast irradiation. Mean duration of trastuzumab-based therapy was 57 months (range: 14–140 months, SD 39.3). Seven patients (18.9%) experienced TIC resulting in treatment interruption for two patients (28 and 78 days). The median time from starting trastuzumab therapy to TIC was 14 months (interquartile range: 11–29.5 months). The mean number of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) assessment completed per year was 2.7 (range: 1.2–6.6, SD 1.1).

Conclusion

Cardiotoxicity occurred in a minority of patients with HER2-positive MBC receiving trastuzumab-based therapy for more than one year. LVEF reductions to below the institutional lower limit of normal and therapy modifications were uncommon.
Evaluation of factors associated with bleeding following haemodialysis catheter-related procedures and the risk with anti-platelet agents
Authors: Koduri Sreekanth , Keng Chionh Gareth Yeow , Khaw Jien-Yi , Foong Shaohui ,   CREMERE Group, Chionh Chang Yin
Published: August 2023

Background:

Bleeding is a potential complication following haemodialysis catheter-related procedures. Besides uraemia, bleeding risk is perceived to be even higher in patients receiving antiplatelets. This study aims to evaluate the risk factors for bleeding following dialysis catheter-related procedures.

Methods:

This is a secondary analysis of a single-centre, prospective cohort study between March 2019 and June 2020. Potential risk factors for bleeding were collected, including use of antiplatelets and anticoagulants, serum urea and haematological results. Patients were observed closely for external bleeding following haemodialysis catheter-related procedures.

Results:

From 413 patients screened, 250 were recruited. Of these, 177 underwent dialysis catheter insertion (157 tunnelled and 20 non-tunnelled) while 73 had dialysis catheter removed (35 tunnelled and 38 non-tunnelled). One hundred and four patients (41.6%) were on a single anti-platelet agent, of whom 75 (30.0%) were on aspirin and 29 (11.6%) had clopidogrel alone. Twenty-nine patients (11.6%) were on both aspirin and clopidogrel. There were 36 episodes (14.4%) of bleeding. The risk of bleeding was not significantly higher with the use of aspirin alone (odds ratio = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.36–2.02, p = 0.709), clopidogrel alone (odds ratio = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.31–3.49, p = 0.953) and both aspirin and clopidogrel (odds ratio = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.28–3.25, p = 0.938). In a multivariate analysis, none of the known bleeding risk factors had a statistically significant association with bleeding.

Conclusions:

Overall, the use of antiplatelet agents was not associated with an increased risk of bleeding.
Caudate volume and symptoms of apathy in older adults with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cote Sarah E , Wagshul Mark E , Foley Fredrick W , Lipton Michael L , Holtzer Roee
Published: August 2023

Background:

Apathy is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neurological disease, but its presence and underlying brain mechanisms in older adults with MS (OAMS) have not been evaluated.

Objective:

Examine apathy and its association with caudate nuclei volume in OAMS and controls. We hypothesized that compared to controls, OAMS would demonstrate: a) greater apathy; b) stronger associations between apathy and caudate nuclei volumes.

Methods:

OAMS ( n = 67, mean age = 64.55 ± 3.89) and controls ( n = 74, mean age = 69.04 ± 6.32) underwent brain MRI, cognitive assessment, psychological, and motoric testing. Apathy was assessed through the apathy subscale of the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale.

Results:

OAMS reported greater apathy compared to controls ( β = 0.281, p = 0.004). Adjusted moderation analyses revealed a significantly stronger association between caudate volume and apathy (left: B = −1.156, p = 0.039, right: B = −1.163, p = 0.040) among OAMS compared to controls. Conditional effects revealed that in adjusted models, lower volume of both the left ( b = −0.882, p = 0.037) and right ( b = −0.891, p = 0.038) caudate nuclei was significantly associated with greater apathy only among OAMS.

Conclusion:

Caudate nuclei, which are susceptible to adverse MS effects and implicated in mediating cognitive and motor function, may influence the presence and severity of apathy in OAMS.
Speaking, but having no voice. Negotiating agency in advertisements for intelligent personal assistants
Authors: Lind Miriam , Dickel Sascha
Published: August 2023

With the popularisation of intelligent personal assistants (IPAs) like Amazon’s Alexa and the Google Assistant, natural language-based interaction with machines is increasingly becoming a part of everyday life. The conceptualisation of these tools as agentive assistants who help with a variety of tasks in both the household and at work is guided by their marketing: When Apple introduced the Siri-technology at their keynote event in 2011, the system responded to the question ‘Siri, who are you?’ with ‘I am a humble personal assistant’. This claim to a speaking subject position while at the same time locating this subject firmly in a servile social role has become a defining feature of the social place of IPAs: Designed to postulate agency, they do so not in equality with humans but as their servants. This paper offers an interdisciplinary analysis of video advertisements for IPAs, combining sociological and linguistic approaches. We treat agency and actors not as something given but as something that becomes visible through communicative acts, suggesting an understanding of these advertisements as socio-technical visions in which the negotiation of agency in human–machine interaction serves two functions: Firstly, the asymmetrical relationship between the human and the machine promises a symmetrisation of human–human relationships. In an imagined diversified world of equal human rights and relationships, social inequality is reconfigured in the relationship between human and non-human entities. Secondly, the negotiation of agency between humans and machines deflects from questions regarding the increasing agency and power of the companies behind these IPAs and their growing access to and influence on people’s private lives. Our paper will thus provide insights into how agency is ascribed in human–human and human–machine interaction considering social practices of symmetrisation and hierarchisation as well as a critical investigation into the triangular relationships between humans’, machines’, and companies’ agency.
Decolonising the political: Presence, law and obligation
Authors: Eckert Julia
Published: August 2023

In his recent book, Mahmood Mamdani calls for the decolonisation of politics to overcome the categorical and conceptual legacies of the colonial nation state that generate, time and again, cycles of retributive violence. Mamdani's suggestion of survivor communities, I argue, does not go far enough. The epistemological revolution necessary to reconceptualise legitimate belonging must go beyond the notion of surviving a shared history. If what is at issue is creating an inclusive political order, political community cannot be based on a shared past but must rather encompass all those who share a present. Moreover, if the distinction between permanent majorities and permanent minorities established by the nation state is continued in the structures created by that order, instruments of redress are required. The political question and the social question are one. To this end, rather than abandoning notions of legal responsibility, an epistemological revolution in the legal notions of responsibility is needed. To liberate the question of who belongs from the logic of prerogative that is the corollary of the nation state form and to radically alter the logic of membership, responsibility must be reconceptualised to take account of our implication in the situation of others. We can conceive of polities not as constituted by a shared past, but as premised on our collective inhabitation of entangled histories and presents.
The effect of text message reminders on compliance with Twin Block appliances: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Higgins Emily , Garvey Thérèse , Burns Angus
Published: August 2023

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether text reminders influence patient compliance with Twin Block appliances. The null hypothesis was that there was no statistically significant differences in Twin Block compliance between those who receive text reminders and those that do not.

Design:

Single-blind parallel randomised controlled clinical trial.

Setting:

Health Service Executive (HSE) orthodontic outpatient clinic in Dublin, Ireland.

Participants:

A total of 59 patients aged 11–15 years with a 5a Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN grade) starting treatment with Twin Block appliances.

Methods:

A computer-generated unstratified allocation sequence was used to randomise the participants into the control group (CG) or the text group (TG). Both groups were asked to wear their appliances full-time. In addition to the same verbal and written instruction received by the CG, the TG received text message reminders, every 3 days, to wear their appliances. The primary outcome measure was wear time reported by Theramon® sensors embedded in the appliances. Data on wear time were uploaded from the Theramon® sensors onto cloud software. Participants in both groups were asked to fill out wear diaries and submit these at each visit. Treating clinicians and the primary investigator were blinded to the allocation group. Participants were followed up for 4 months. Participants were not blinded to their treatment group.

Results:

In total, 29 participants were allocated to the CG and 30 to the TG. The data for 53 participants were analysed, 24 from the CG and 29 from the TG. The median hours/day of wear recorded using the Theramon® sensors was 13.77 (interquartile range [IQR] = 10.19) for the CG and 17.72 (IQR = 5.62) for the TG. The difference in wear time recorded was not statistically significant ( P = 0.16).

Conclusion:

The study concluded that text message reminders had no statistically significant influence on patient compliance with Twin Block appliances.
Praising among preschoolers
Authors: Aoki Naoko
Published: August 2023

This study probed praising among preschoolers in natural settings and investigated their developmental changes. In study 1, teachers in preprimary educational facilities answered queries about the frequency and described episodes of praising among preschoolers. The results indicated that children approximately 3-year-old commonly praised friends, primarily in situations of playing. In study 2, teachers responded to questions on the aspects and circumstances of praising among preschoolers. The findings revealed the developmental trend that 5-year- old preschoolers praised the processes used by their friends more than 3-year-old children. Five-year-old preschoolers also praised their friends more than 3-year-old children in competitive team game situations.
How Does Exposure to General and Sexual Harassment Relate to Female Gamers’ Coping Strategies and Mental Health?
Authors: Wong Senya , Ratan Rabindra
Published: August 2023

Female gamers are often exposed to not only general harassment but also sexual harassment during online multiplayer games. Although studies have investigated the effects of harassment and associated coping strategies on the mental health of females within the workplace, comparable studies have not been conducted within online gaming environments. This study surveyed adult female gamers to assess the relationship between female gamers’ exposure to general and sexual harassment, coping strategies (i.e., self-blame, seeking help), and mental health (i.e., distress, anxiety). General and sexual harassment were positively associated with distress and anxiety. Self-blame and seeking help moderated the association of general harassment with distress and anxiety, respectively. Findings highlight the importance of considering the type and level of harassment when examining how coping strategies may moderate the effects of harassment on female gamers’ mental health.
Self-interestedness in Research Collaboration and its Association with Career Stage and Nature of Collaboration: A Survey of Zimbabwean Researchers
Authors: Ngwenya Similo , Boshoff Nelius
Published: August 2023

During collaboration in research, it may happen that some researchers become involved in behaviours that reflect so-called ‘self-interestedness’, which means that they pursue their personal interest or benefit without considering others. This study examined how researchers in Zimbabwe perceive instances of self-interestedness among research collaborators, and how these perceptions differ according to their career stage and the nature of collaboration. An online survey of researchers in Zimbabwe was conducted to gather information about six instances of self-interestedness among research collaborators. The results show that Zimbabwean researchers involved exclusively in national collaboration reported greater degrees of collaborator self-interestedness than Zimbabwean researchers involved in international collaboration. However, early-career researchers and established researchers did not differ significantly regarding their experiences of collaborator self-interestedness. Measures aimed at capacitating research organisations and research teams in developing countries in the African context, to counter collaborator self-interestedness, are recommended.
Teachers’ perspective on accountability: A comparative case study in primary rural schools of Afghanistan and Pakistan
Authors: Jean-Francois Trani , Shuya Yin , Mustafa Rfat , Mara Mckown , Mary Kate Cartmill , Ian Kaplan , Yiqi Zhu , Sohail Munib , Parul Bakhshi
Published: August 2023

Education in Afghanistan and Pakistan is characterised by indicators showing lack of mastering of reading, writing and mathematics literacy skills. To foster effective education systems and provide quality education, experts have encouraged and established various mechanisms of accountability. We conducted participatory workshops with 556 teachers representing 102 primary schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan to investigate their understanding of teachers’ roles and responsibilities in education. Teachers acknowledged their own responsibilities for student learning but also emphasized that improving the quality of education should involve providing good teaching and learning environments, child-centred pedagogy, caring relationships, parental involvement, inclusive communities, and respect for teachers.
The association between health literacy, COVID-19 knowledge and adherence to preventive measures in Turkey
Authors: Ceylan Erdal , Koç Ayşegül
Published: August 2023

Despite vaccination and various prevention policies, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic maintains its negative effects globally. Therefore, people must be adequately informed and put this knowledge into practice in order to take the necessary precautions. This can be achieved with adequate health literacy. In this context, this study was conducted to determine the relationship between health literacy, COVID-19 knowledge and adherence to preventive measures. The sample of this descriptive cross-sectional online survey consisted of 1086 people. Data were collected using a demographics questionnaire, the European Health Literacy Scale, the COVID-19 Knowledge Assessment Questionnaire and the COVID-19 Adherence Assessment Questionnaire. Participants’ health literacy index had a median score of 30.9, with 67.5% having inadequate or problematic health literacy. Gender, age, education, marital status, region of residence, employment status and economic status were associated with health literacy ( p < 0.05). Participants’ median knowledge and adherence scores were 40 and 54, respectively. There were significant positive correlations between health literacy index, knowledge and adherence scores ( p < 0.001). This study demonstrated that health literacy, COVID-19 knowledge and adherence were associated with each other. As a result, strategies aimed at improving health literacy may be beneficial in terms of having better knowledge and demonstrating high adherence to measures, thus, eradicating the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing COVID-19-related conditions and promoting public health.
Beyond atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: overall efficacy and safety of tyrosine kinase inhibitors in a real-world setting
Authors: Falette-Puisieux Manon , Nault Jean-Charles , Bouattour Mohamed , Lequoy Marie , Amaddeo Giuliana , Decaens Thomas , Di Fiore Frederic , Manfredi Sylvain , Merle Philippe , Baron Aurore , Locher Christophe , Pellat Anna , Coriat Romain
Published: August 2023

Background:

In patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progressing after atezolizumab and bevacizumab, the optimal therapeutic sequence is still unclear and no second-line agent has proven its efficacy.

Objectives:

The aim of this retrospective multicenter real-world cohort study was to provide an evaluation of the efficacy and safety of the use of second-line tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in this population.

Methods:

All patients with advanced HCC, treated in first-line setting by atezolizumab–bevacizumab, and who received at least one dose of treatment with TKI were included in this study. All the data were retrospectively collected from medical records. The primary outcome was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), overall global survival (OGS), and safety. A total of 82 patients were included in this study.

Results:

Patients were assigned to the regorafenib group ( n = 29, 35.4%) or other TKI (sorafenib n = 41, lenvatinib n = 8, or cabozantinib n = 4) group ( n = 53). PFS was not significantly different between the two groups [2.6 versus 2.8 months, HR 1.07 (95% CI: 0.61–1.86), p = 0.818]. Median PFS rates were 2.6, 4.4, and 2.8 months in sorafenib-, lenvatinib-, and cabozantinib group, respectively. OS was statistically different between the regorafenib group and other TKI group [15.8 versus 7.0 months, HR 0.40 (95% CI: 0.20–0.79), p = 0.023]. When adjusting on confounding factors, there was still a difference in OS favoring the regorafenib group (adjusted hazard ratio 0.35, p = 0.019). OGS of patients who received regorafenib was improved compared to other TKI [18.6 versus 15.0 months, HR 0.42 (95% CI: 0.22–0.84), p = 0.036]. Twenty percent of patients had grade 3 and none had grade 4 or 5 adverse events. In patients who experienced disease progression and fit for a third-line treatment, 80% and 50% received cabozantinib in regorafenib group and other TKI group, respectively.

Conclusion:

Efficacy of any TKI in the second-line setting was not affected by atezolizumab–bevacizumab treatment as first-line therapy. The safety profile in the second-line setting was consistent with the results shown in pivotal studies. PFS rates of patients were similar, regardless of TKI type. Regorafenib was associated with better OS and OGS rates compared to other TKI. These data need to be confirmed in prospective comparative studies.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Activity of Fatty Acids From Hedyotis pilulifera: In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Nguyen Tan Khanh , Le Yen Thi , Ho Duc Viet , Nguyen Hoai Thi , Tran Linh Thuy Thi
Published: August 2023

The potential targeting of xanthine oxidase (XO) for the treatment of gout has been explored through animal and human experiments. To identify potential XO inhibitors, a virtual screening method was utilized to examine fatty acids from Hedyotis pilulifera. Molecular docking results demonstrated that all possible configurations of the fatty acid 9,12,13-trihydroxyoctadeca-10 E,15 Z-dienoic acid exhibited a strong binding affinity to XO. In vitro experiment also showed that this compound inhibited XO activity compared to the control compound. Molecular dynamic simulation was used to further investigate the interaction between the ligand and protein. Additionally, ADMET studies revealed that this compound has highly favorable drug-like properties and pharmacokinetics.
To Los Angeles: United in Grief, United in Struggle
Authors: Dozier Deshonay
Published: August 2023

I honor Black struggle for life and living in Los Angeles's panoptic landscape by detailing how it has led me to the work of Mike Davis and visions for abolition.
Statistical plots in oncologic imaging, a primer for neuroradiologists
Authors: Bagheri Sina , Taghvaei Mohammad , Familiar Ariana , Haldar Debanjan , Zandifar Alireza , Khalili Nastaran , Vossough Arastoo , Nabavizadeh Ali
Published: August 2023

The simplest approach to convey the results of scientific analysis, which can include complex comparisons, is typically through the use of visual items, including figures and plots. These statistical plots play a critical role in scientific studies, making data more accessible, engaging, and informative. A growing number of visual representations have been utilized recently to graphically display the results of oncologic imaging, including radiomic and radiogenomic studies. Here, we review the applications, distinct properties, benefits, and drawbacks of various statistical plots. Furthermore, we provide neuroradiologists with a comprehensive understanding of how to use these plots to effectively communicate analytical results based on imaging data.
Bridging Echo Chambers? Understanding Political Partisanship through Semantic Network Analysis
Authors: Erickson Jacob , Yan Bei , Huang Jingyun
Published: August 2023

In an era of intense partisanship, there is widespread concern that people are self-sorting into separate online communities which are detached from one another. Referred to as echo chambers, the phenomenon is sometimes attributed to the new media landscape and internet ecosystem. Of particular concern is the idea that communication between disparate groups is breaking down due to a lack of a shared reality. In this article, we look to evaluate these assumptions. Applying text and semantic network analyses, we study the language of users who represent distinct partisan political ideologies on Reddit and their discussions in light of the January 6, 2021, Capitol Riots. By analyzing over 58k posts and 3.4 million comments across three subreddits, r/politics, r/democrats, and r/Republican, we explore how these distinct groups discuss political events to understand the possibility of bridging across echo chambers. The findings of this research study provide insight into how members of distinct online groups interpret major political events.
Knee Extension Exercise Effects on Physiological and Psychophysical Performance: Normal Weight Versus Obese Office Workers
Authors: Mohammadian Mostafa , Choobineh Alireza , Razeghi Mohsen , Daneshmandi Hadi , Ghaem Haleh , Kazemi Reza , Jahani Yunes , Hashemi Nejad Naser
Published: August 2023

Background:

Knee extension exercise is useful and practical for obese and overweight people as this form of exercise is effective in minimizing body weight loading on joints and improving the body’s physiological function. This study aimed to compare the physiological and psychophysical parameters of office workers while computer-based working in an active workstation equipped with an active footrest (AFR) prototype with a mechanism for performing knee extension exercises in a sitting position, and also to compare the physiological and psychophysical parameters among normal-weight and obese office workers.

Methods:

In this quasi-experimental study, the physiological parameters of heart rate (HR) and energy expenditure (EE) (measured with the Fitbit Charge HR smartwatch) were measured in two cross-over random sessions for 32 office workers (16 normal-weight and 16 obese) aged 28 to 50 years ( M = 42.72, standard deviation [ SD] = 4.37) while performing office tasks in sitting and active workstations (equipped with AFR). Perceived physical exertion, comfort, fatigue, and liking were also measured by rating the participants.

Findings:

Short-term activity of the participants with AFR performing computer tasks significantly improved physiological and psychophysical parameters compared with the participants in sitting workstations. However, there was no significant difference in the effect of AFR on physiological and psychophysical parameters between normal-weight and obese participants.

Conclusions/Application to Practice:

Given the significant increase in EE and HR resulting from exercise with AFR compared with the conventional workstation, the use of AFR can help office workers achieve the minimum standard of physical activity at their workplace.
Diabetes distress in a Barbadian population with type 2 diabetes: A pilot test
Authors: Dasantos Allison , Goddard Carlisle , Maynard Donna-Maria , Ragoobirsingh Dalip
Published: August 2023

One in five Barbadians has diabetes, suggesting that there is a severe burden of the disease.

Objective:

To assess the psychometric properties of the Diabetes Distress Scale, in order to determine the feasibility, practicality, internal consistency and criterion validity of the instrument when used with Barbadians living with Type 2 Diabetes.

Methods:

Patients with type 2 diabetes, ( n = 106. 60% females, 40% males; mean age = 65.2, 11.3 years) attending a private clinic in Barbados were assessed for diabetes distress, depression, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and blood pressure (BP). A self-report questionnaire that included: clinical and demographic questions; the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS); the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9); and the Problem Areas In Diabetes (PAID-5) scale. Glycated haemaglobin (HbA1C) and Blood pressure (BP) were also measured.

Results:

Of the 110 persons who participated, 106 persons completed the questionnaire. The Cronbach alpha coefficient of the PAID was 0.92 and the DDS was 0.92. Concurrent validity was demonstrated in a strong consistent relationship between the scores on the DDS and PAID-5, with a strong positive correlation, r = 0.70, n = 86, p < 0.001. There was a significant difference in the DDS scores between males ( M = 1.26, SD = 0.37) and females ( M = 1.50, SD = 0.73), t(73.31) = −1.99, p = 0.05 two tailed.

Conclusion:

The DDS is shown to be a valid and reliable measure within this Caribbean context. Thus, researchers and clinicians desirous of a tool to assess Diabetes Distress may be assured of the strong psychometric properties demonstrated thus far.
Association of Injury Rates Among Players in the National Football League With Playoff Qualification, Travel Distance, Game Timing, and the Addition of Another Game: Data From the 2017 to 2022 Seasons
Authors: Angileri Hunter S. , McLoughlin Daniel E. , Owen Madeline M. , May Jared M. , Terry Michael A. , Tjong Vehniah K.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Injury incidence is higher in the National Football League (NFL) than in other collision sports. Although previous research has identified that scheduling variations, including overseas games and bye week timing, does not affect concussion risk, data are currently lacking regarding the effects of scheduling variation on season-long musculoskeletal injury incidence.

Purpose:

To determine whether higher cumulative travel distance, overseas play, an early season bye week, and an expansion of the regular season is associated with higher injury rates in the NFL.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

All 1275 injuries across 5 NFL seasons from 2017 to 2018 through 2021 to 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. Injury data and travel distances were extracted from publicly available sources, which were cross-referenced for validation. Injury rates were calculated per 1000 athletic-exposures (AEs). Cumulative team travel distances were compared statistically using a linear regression. Single factor analysis of variance was used to compare categorical variables.

Results:

Travel distance did not significantly predict injury rates ( P = .47), and there was no difference in injury rates between teams that played a game overseas versus teams that did not (19.3 injuries per 1000 AEs for both; P = .96). In addition, no difference was found in injury rates ( F[109,2100[ = 0.704; P = .73) or players placed on the injured reserve list ( F[99,778] = 1.70; P = .077) between various bye weeks ( P = .73). Injury rates did not differ between the new 17-game regular season (18.4 per 1000 AEs) versus the previous four 16-game regular seasons (19.7 per 1000 AEs; P = .12). However, teams that did not qualify for the playoffs had a significantly higher injury rate (19.9 per 1000 AEs) as well as players on injured reserve (8.0 per 1000 AEs) than playoff-qualifying teams (18.4 and 6.8 per 1000 AEs, respectively; P < .05 for both).

Conclusion:

Over 5 NFL seasons, cumulative travel distance, overseas play, bye week timing, and adding 1 regular season game were not associated with increased injury rates in NFL players. However, a lack of regular season success was associated with higher injury rates and more players on injured reserve.
Algorithmic Elementary-Age Nasal Reconstruction for Binder Syndrome
Authors: Blum Jessica D. , Villavisanis Dillan F. , Cho Daniel Y. , Cheung Liana , Plana Natalie M. , Bartlett Scott P. , Taylor Jesse A. , Swanson Jordan W.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Nasomaxillary hypoplasia, or Binder syndrome, is conventionally treated at skeletal maturity (SKM). However, our institution has employed a stratified treatment algorithm, treating severe patients with serial nasal expansion beginning at elementary school age (5-11 years) to expand the soft tissues and improve appearance prior to definitive rhinoplasty at SKM. This study evaluates the treatment patterns and outcomes of Binder syndrome employing this pathway.

Methods:

Eight cases of nasomaxillary hypoplasia were identified from a database of rhinoplasties performed between 2006 and 2020 at a tertiary children’s hospital. Photomorphometric analyses were conducted on basal, frontal, and lateral photographs. Goode’s ratio was used to assess change in projection, and pronasale to ala distance was measured bilaterally as a proxy of symmetry. Changes in symmetry were calculated using bilateral nasal width ratio.

Results:

In our sample, 6 patients (75.0%) had initial rhinoplasty prior to SKM, with 3 undergoing serial silastic implant placement, one with complicated implant placement followed by autologous reconstruction, and 2 undergoing serial expansion with allograft rib cartilage grafts. Average age at initial rhinoplasty was 6.3 (range 5.2-8.8) years for the pre-SKM group and 15.6 (range 14.1-17.1) years for the post-SKM group. Patients in the pre-SKM rhinoplasty group underwent more procedures than those at SKM (2.3 vs 1.5, respectively). The average change in nasal parameters was −0.029 for Goode’s ratio and −9.5° for nasolabial angle. The average post-operative nasal symmetry index was 0.98 representing near perfect symmetry. There was no significant difference in the degree of improvement in nasolabial angle, Goode’s ratio, or nasal symmetry between SKM and pre-SKM cohorts (all P > .05).

Conclusion:

Among patients with Binder syndrome, those treated initially at elementary-age were able to achieve similar improvements in nasal indices to those treated at SKM. This approach allows patients to live their key developmental years with less stigmata of their facial difference but requires more surgical intervention.
Using Students’ Interests in General Music (Part 3): Suggestions for Practice
Authors: Davis Virginia Wayman , Culp Mara E.
Published: August 2023

Music education in the United States aims to be for every child, yet many students become less interested in school music as they mature. Although previous research reveals activities that upper-elementary students may prefer, much of this research may not represent 21st-century students, the instruments and activities that have enhanced curricula in recent decades, or more diverse musical offerings from around the globe. To guide decision-making regarding the activities most appropriate for their students, teachers can gather information from students through both formal and informal means (e.g., conducting research). In this third article in our research-to-practice series, we use data from our investigation into upper-elementary students’ activity preferences to create three hypothetical “classes” and provide suggestions for structuring activities that are responsive to our learners. Using a similar process, teachers may discover and tailor experiences to their own students’ interests, increasing motivation and persistence in music.
Persistence to anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies and onabotulinumtoxinA among patients with migraine: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Charleston Larry , Talon Brian , Sullivan Christine , Anderson Carlton , Kymes Steven , Regnier Stephane A. , Soni-Brahmbhatt Seema , Nahas Stephanie J.
Published: August 2023

Background

To date, real-world evidence on persistence to anti-calcitonin gene-related peptide (anti-CGRP) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) or onabotulinumtoxinA have excluded eptinezumab. This retrospective cohort study was performed to compare treatment persistency among patients with migraine on anti-CGRP mAbs (erenumab, fremanezumab, galcanezumab, or eptinezumab) or onabotulinumtoxinA.

Methods

This retrospective study used IQVIA PharmMetrics data. Adult patients with migraine treated with an anti-CGRP mAb or onabotulinumtoxinA who had 12 months of continuous insurance enrollment before starting treatment were included. A “most recent treatment episode” analysis was used in which the most recent episode was defined as the latest treatment period with the same drug (anti-CGRP mAb or onabotulinumtoxinA) without a ≥ 15-day gap in medication supply on/after June 25, 2020, to December 31, 2021. Patients were indexed at the start of their most recent episode. Patients were considered non-persistent and discontinued the therapy associated with their most recent episode if there was ≥ 15-day gap in medication supply. A Cox proportional-hazards model estimated the discontinuation hazard between treatments. The gap periods and cohort definition were varied in sensitivity analyses.

Results

The study included 66,576 patients (median age 46 years, 88.6% female). More eptinezumab-treated patients had chronic migraine (727/1074), ≥ 3 previous acute (323/1074) or preventive (333/1074) therapies, and more prior treatment episodes (3) than other treatment groups. Based on a 15-day treatment gap, patients on subcutaneous anti-CGRP mAbs had a 32% (95% CI: 1.19, 1.49; erenumab), 42% (95% CI: 1.27, 1.61; galcanezumab), and 58% (95% CI: 1.42, 1.80; fremanezumab) higher discontinuation hazard than those receiving eptinezumab, with this relationship attenuated, but still statistically significant based on 30-day and 60-day treatment gaps. There was no significant difference in the discontinuation hazard between eptinezumab and onabotulinumtoxinA. Based on a 15-day treatment gap among patients who newly initiated therapy, the discontinuation hazard of subcutaneous anti-CGRP mAbs remained significantly higher compared to eptinezumab and onabotulinumtoxinA.

Conclusion

Patients treated with eptinezumab demonstrated persistency that was higher than subcutaneous anti-CGRP mAbs and similar to onabotulinumtoxinA.

Graphical Abstract
Peripheral retinal cysts in presumed ocular toxocariasis
Authors: Maamouri Rym , Jallouli Aida , Béizig Olfa , Cheour Monia
Published: August 2023

Typical clinical manifestations of ocular toxocariasis are central posterior granuloma, peripheral granuloma and chronic endophthalmitis. Herein we report the presence of peripheral subretinal cysts in two cases with a presumed ocular toxocariasis (OT).