bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 319: IV Thrombolysis Administration for Acute Ischemic Stroke After Cervical Epidural Injection: A Case Report
Authors: Phan C. , Tar M. I. , LaBarte T.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Intravenous (IV) thrombolysis with recent lumbar puncture is a relative contraindication due to the potential for development of epidural hematoma. While there have been case reports of uncomplicated IV thrombolysis after lumbar puncture or epidural anesthesia, there is limited data overall regarding the safety of IV thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in patients who have undergone a neuraxial procedure. To our knowledge, there are no reported cases of successful IV thrombolysis after cervical epidural injection (CEI).

Methods

This is a case report.

Results

An 83‐year‐old male with past medical history of hyperlipidemia and prior stroke with residual right arm weakness presented for worsening right arm weakness and new symptoms of right leg weakness. Neurological exam also revealed aphasia and right facial droop. Patient presented within the time window for IV thrombolysis. However, the patient received a CEI earlier that day, which was confirmed to be around C7 level and considered uncomplicated with additional clinical observation that the dura was not punctured. Non‐contrast CT head showed no evidence of intracranial hemorrhage. CT angiogram of the head and neck showed an occlusion of the proximal aspect of the left internal carotid artery. Neurointerventional radiology was consulted to discuss the safety of IV thrombolysis given the recent epidural steroid injection. After extensive discussion regarding indication, risks, and benefits of IV thrombolysis with the patient and his son, informed consent was obtained, and IV Tenecteplase (TNK) was administered. The patient was then transferred to a thrombectomy capable center, where he received a balloon angioplasty and stenting to the left ICA with TICI 2b revascularization. MRI confirmed acute left frontal infarct. The patient remained stable without complications from the TNK and was discharged home on optimal medical management with antiplatelet therapy.

Conclusion

We present a case report of safe and successful administration of IV thrombolysis for AIS after recent CEI with resulting favorable recovery. The decision for IV thrombolysis was made after confirmation that the dura was not punctured. Further studies are necessary to establish the safety for IV thrombolysis after neuraxial procedures, such as epidural injections or epidural anesthesia.
Abstract 375: Predictors of Good Clinical Outcomes After First Pass Effect in Anterior Circulation Tandem Occlusions
Authors: Jaikumar V. , Lim J. , Monteiro A. , Stockman I. , Kruk M. , Shah S. , Scullen T. , Bouslama M. , Raygor K. P. , Davies J. M. , Snyder K. V. , Levy E. I. , Siddiqui A. H.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

First pass effect (FPE) is an independent predictor of good clinical outcomes following mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in non‐tandem occlusions. A proximal tandem carotid steno‐occlusion introduces additional times and technical complexities which can influence recanalization and reperfusion dynamics and potentially, clinical outcomes in the long run. We evaluated the predictors of good clinical outcomes, specifically mRS0‐1 and mRS0‐2 at 90 days, in patients with anterior circulation tandem occlusions where recanalization was achieved through FPE from MT with emergent carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (eCAS), and had a baseline mRS0‐2.;

Methods

We perform a retrospective analysis of institutional thrombectomy database to identify univariate predictors. Significant predictors will be included in a multivariate logistic regression to determine significant predictors of mRS0‐1 and mRS0‐2 at 90 days post‐MT and eCAS.;

Results

We included 88 (66.2%) patients who achieved first pass effect among 133 anterior tandem occlusions undergoing MT with eCAS. Among patients with mRS0‐2 at 90 days, multivariate regression identified age (OR:0.857[0.772‐0.952],p=0.004), intravenous alteplase (OR:12.3[1.3‐114],p=0.027), use of a ballon guide catheter as opposed to conventional guides (OR:0.02[0.01‐0.63],p=0.027), time from arterial access to recanalization (OR:0.96[0.92‐0.999],p=0.043), pre‐eCAS oral aspirin/ticagrelor load as opposed to intravenous eptifibatide load (OR:0.017[0.001‐0.964],p=0.048) and symptomatic ICH (OR:0.025[0.001‐0.723],p=0.032) to be significant predictors. Significant predictors for mRS0‐1 at 90‐days were male sex (OR:41.33[1.45‐1179.31],p=0.03), hypertension (OR:0.03[0‐0.44],p=0.012), diabetes (OR:0.04[0‐0.63],p=0.023), use of a ballon guide catheter as opposed to conventional guides (OR:0.03[0‐0.66],p=0.027), distal embolization (OR:0.02[0‐1.71],p=0.082), time from arterial access to recanalization (OR:0.93[0.86‐0.99],p=0.026), residual carotid stenosis after eCAS (OR:0.003[0‐0.18],p=0.005), pre‐eCAS oral aspirin/ticagrelor load as opposed to intravenous eptifibatide load (OR:0.02[0‐0.25],p=0.016) and symptomatic ICH (OR:0.01[0‐0.38],p=0.012). Notably, heparin infusion post procedure predicted improved outcomes but was insignificant (OR: 55.54[0.59‐5226.65],p=0.083).;

Conclusion

The study highlights important considerations for eCAS, including the choice of antiplatelet loading agent, residual carotid stenosis and longer recanalization times which seem to impact good clinical outcomes.
Abstract 380: Proximal coiling versus Liquid Agents in Treatment for Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization: A single center study with 72 patients
Authors: Senol Y. , Cifci H. , Sayin B. , Ozbakir M. , Orscelik A. , Krishnan N. , Belen A. , Daglioglu E.
Published: January 2025

Background

Various embolic materials, including n‐butyl cyanoacrylate (nBCA), Onyx, and coils, have been used in MMA embolization. The choice of embolic material may influence procedural outcomes, including the extent of MMA branch embolization and the risk of complications. To address this gap, we compared clinical and radiological outcomes for proximal coiling vs liquid agents in the treatment of subdural hematomas (SDHs).

Methods

A retrospective case‐control study assessed 72 patients with SDH who met inclusion criteria and underwent either proximal coiling (n=10) or liquid embolization (n=62) between 2022 and 2023. Demographic data, clinical presentation, radiological membrane thickness, procedure time, complications, and follow‐up outcomes were recorded. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at admission and at the 90‐day follow‐up. Descriptive statistics for baseline characteristics and outcomes were calculated Univariate and multivariate correlations were investigated using binomial and multinomial logistic regressions with reporting of the odds ratios (ORs).

Results

Overall cohort had a mean age of 68.1 years, with no significant differences between the coil and liquid groups in age, gender distribution, or comorbidities. Significant differences were observed in preoperative SDH width (p<0.01) and membrane presence (p=0.04) between the two groups. Clinical outcomes at 90‐day follow‐up showed no statistically significant differences in mRS scores between the coil and liquid agent groups. Complications were reported in 4.2% of the total cohort, occurring only in the liquid embolic group, with no complications in the coil group. Retreatment was required in 5.6% of patients, with one case in the coil group and three cases in the liquid group, showing no significant difference (p>0.95). The overall mean mRS score improved significantly from 3.1 at admission to 1.0 at 90 days, with no significant difference in the degree of improvement between the two groups (p=0.50). The mean procedural duration was 40.2 minutes, with the coil group having a slightly longer mean duration (48.3 minutes) compared to the liquid group (39.0 minutes), though this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.07)

Conclusion

MMA embolization using either coils or liquid embolic agents is an effective and safe treatment for cSDH, with both modalities showing comparable clinical outcomes and procedure times. While the liquid embolic group had a slightly higher rate of complications, this was not statistically significant. Both treatment options resulted in substantial improvements in mRS scores, suggesting their efficacy in reducing the recurrence and managing cSDH. Proximal coiling could be an alternative option, whereas the liquid agents or DMSO compatible are not available for MMA embolization
Abstract 394: Resolution of Bilateral Subdural Hematomas Following Pseudomeningocele‐Induced Intracranial Hypotension Treated with Fibrin Sealant
Authors: Iqbal Z. , Albana A. , Fu S. , Marin H.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

CSF leaks lead to intracranial hypotension and is being increasingly diagnosed as a cause of headaches. These leaks may present simply as a headache but can also lead to severe neurological complications, such as brainstem herniation, bilateral subdural hematomas, and cranial nerve palsies. We present a case of a dural tear that resulted in a pseudomeningocele, which was treated successfully with fibrin sealant.

Presentation

A 67‐year‐old patient presented to the emergency department with a headache that had worsened acutely over the past 4 days, following several months of less severe symptoms. A CT scan of the head revealed isodense to hypodense components on the right and mixed attenuation components on the left, suggesting a subdural hematoma with mild mass effect. An MRI of the brain, both with and without contrast, showed subacute to chronic subdural hematomas with an acute component on the left side. The MRI also indicated diffuse smooth thickening and enhancement of the dura, drooping of the splenium, flattening of the ventral pons, and reduced ponto‐mamillary distance. A whole‐spine MRI, although motion‐degraded, did not reveal any CSF leak. The patient underwent an epidural blood patch placement to address the suspected CSF leak, but their headache did not improve. A repeat CT scan of the head showed mild worsening of the bilateral hematomas and midline shift. A dynamic myelogram revealed a ventral filling defect likely due to a T5‐T6 central and left paracentral disc extrusion, which was the origin of the dural tear and led to the development of a pseudomeningocele. The patient then received a CT‐guided transfemoral fibrin glue injection at T5/T6. Following this procedure, the patient experienced improvement in their headaches, and follow‐up images showed stable findings at 2 and 4 weeks. A repeat CT scan of the head at 10 weeks demonstrated significant improvement in the bilateral subdural hematomas.

Discussion

Treatment for CSF leaks ranges from simple observation to surgical repair in refractory and complicated cases. Typically, an epidural blood patch is the first‐line treatment and often resolves the headache. However, some cases remain refractory depending on the etiology of the CSF leak. Several endovascular treatments are under development, including embolization for CSF‐venous fistulas and fibrin sealant for other cases. Fibrin glue, a pharmaceutical product composed of human thrombin and fibrinogen, is introduced into the epidural space under image guidance. Fibrin sealant placement is a safe procedure and has emerged as a viable alternative for refractory cases.
Abstract 427: The Turkish National Thrombectomy Registry: Design and Initial Results
Authors: Gurkas E. , Onalan A. , Acar B. A. , Acar T. , Unal E. , Akpınar C. K. , Dogan H. , Memis Z. , Katı S. D. , Suri F. , Qureshi A.
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Recent randomized controlled trials demonstrated the benefit of thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke patients. Real‐world data aid in assessing reproducibility of outcomes outside of clinical trials in various countries. We have designed and implemented a national registry in Turkiye. We present the design, progress, and initial data from the Turkish National Thrombectomy Registry.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years who underwent thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke were registered. The key items on the data collection form were divided into general stroke demographics and thrombectomy related sections. The main outcomes of effectiveness are post procedure angiographic recanalization graded using modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction grade and functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score, 0‐2) at 3 months.

Results

As of August 2024, 6 hospitals (involving 9 interventional neurologists) from 4 cities have joined the registry. A total of 560 patients (mean age±standard deviation of 67±13 year; median baseline NIHSS score of 16, IQR 12‐18) treated with thrombectomy are entered in the registry. Occlusion sites were internal carotid artery (n=335), middle cerebral artery M1 or M2 segment (n=306), posterior circulation (n=11), and distal vascular locations (n=11). The mean time mean (minutes±standard deviation) from symptom onset to thrombectomy was 261+/‐148 minutes. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (≥4 points NIHSS score increase) within 24 hours was observed in 57 subjects. Overall, functional independence at 90 days was observed in 301 (53.7%) of 560 subjects.
Abstract 429: The usability study of non‐contrast CT based AI to reduce the time from hospital door to reperfusion in anterior large vessel occlusion
Authors: Kim D. , Lee A. , Song S. , Choi W. , Shin D. , Lim Y.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the time reduction from hospital door to endovascular treatment (EVT) when using a non‐contrast CT (NCCT) basis artificial intelligence (AI) solution to classify and notify patients with anterior large vessel occlusion (LVO). It has the advantage of improving the prognosis by reducing the time required for treatment if patients of suspected LVO can be quickly screened and notified to clinicians in step of the NCCT test. Therefore, it was compared the time from the door of emergency room (ER) to reperfusion before and after to use of AI solution for evaluating clinical effectiveness aspects.

Materials and Methods

Patients over 19 years of age who visited a thrombectomy capable stroke center (TSC) with acute stroke symptoms and underwent EVT were enrolled this study. For the Post‐AI group, cases were collected prospectively after applying the AI solution [2022.05.01~2023.12.31], and cases with similar age, gender, and NIHSS with Post‐AI group were retrospectively collected as the Pre‐AI group [2020.05.01~2022.04.31]. The main comparison point was time difference from ER door to endovascular treatment between Pre‐AI and Post‐AI groups. Additionally, time from ER door to CT scan, CT scan to Stroke team treatment (STT), and STT to EVT were also compared between groups. Differences in time between groups were analyzed using an unpaired t‐test with Welch's correction.

Results

A total of 25 EVT cases were enrolled as the Post‐AI group, and 70 cases were retrospectively selected after 1:3 propensity score matching with age, gender and NIHSS in EVT cases. As a result of primary endpoint, time from ER door to EVT was significantly different between Pre‐AI (174.7±75.0 min.) and Post‐AI (147.7±31.6 min) [p=0.0155]. In detail results of time comparison, the time from CT scan to Stroke team treatment (20.2±7.9 min. vs. 35.4±41.3 min., p=0.0043) and the time from CT scan to EVT (127.7±29.2 min. vs. 153.9±71.1 min., p=0.0127) were significantly reduced in Post‐AI group.

Conclusions and Limitations

It has been confirmed that quickly screening LVO patients and notifying clinicians by an AI solution at the very front of the clinical process can significantly reduce the time from ER admission to EVT, and it will influence to prognosis outcome. Therefore, it is highly recommended to use for effective workflow in clinical environment. This study demonstrated how AI improved the hyperacute endovascular treatment workflow, by showing the impact on reducing ER door‐to‐reperfusion time. Although the study results were limited in generalizability as it was evaluated in a single TSC, we expect that it will be particularly valuable in remote regions where clinical experts may be limited.
Abstract 430: The Use of DCS as a Predictive Model for the Development of DCI Following aSAH ‐ Preliminary Experience
Authors: Letavay A. , Amin S. , Pressman E. , Guerrero W. , Vakharia K. , Raghu V. , Sultana P. Parveen , Parthasarathy A. , Mokin M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). DCI results in focal neurological deficits in 30‐50% of patients within 4‐10 days following aneurysm rupture. Given the short comings of the current technologies in identifying DCI (mainly, transcranial dopplers), the current study employed the use of non‐invasive optical measurements of cerebral blood flow (CBF) using a custom‐built diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) device. This research is supported by an R01 NIINDS funding mechanism.

Methods

We preformed daily bilateral cerebral blood flow measurements using a custom built DCS device in six patients following aSAH until discharge from our facility. Daily collection of transcranial doppler readings, NIHSS and GCS scores, in conjunction with other relevant clinical and angiographic procedural data were collected daily from admission until day 14 (or later if the patient remained symptomatic). In patients who underwent intra‐arterial vasospasm treatment in the angio suite, DCS recordings were obtained immediately before, after, and throughout the infusion.

Results

Recordings were successfully obtained in six patients. No safety concerns or interference with standard workflow procedures were noted. Correlation of daily DCS measurements with changes in clinical exam and occurrence of DCI are being finalized and prepared for the SVIN conference.

Conclusions

Preliminary analysis have demonstrated that the use of DCS optical measurements is safe and effective in the clinical setting with minimal interruptions to standard clinical operations.
Abstract 442: Transradial Access For Neurointerventional Procedures In The Elderly Population
Authors: Babici D. , Mohamed A. , Demiraj F. , Snelling B. M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction/Purpose

Transradial access (TRA) has been shown to be both efficacious and safe across a range of neuro‐interventional procedures. The elderly population represents a sub‐population in which the benefits of TRA could be magnified given their increased risk of access site complications. However, this population may be at higher risk for access site and procedural failure due to their increased likelihood of vessel tortuosity and vascular disease. The current neuro‐interventional literature is lacking with respect to the safety and efficacy of trans‐radial access in the elderly population.

Materials/Methods

A retrospective review of patients older than 80 years who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiogram or neuro‐endovascular intervention through proximal and distal radial access from 2018 to 2023 at a single center was conducted.

Results

The mean age of patients who underwent diagnostic cerebral angiogram (N= 35) and endovascular intervention (N= 31) were 82.5 and 83.5 years, respectively (ranges from 80 to 94). Vascular sheath diameters used in the diagnostic and intervention groups were 5 and 5 to 7 French, respectively. Amongst patients in both the diagnostic and intervention groups, proximal radial access was used in 8 and 16 patients, respectively, and distal radial access was used in 27 and 15 patients, respectively. One distal radial access failure occurred in the diagnostic group due to the small diameter of the radial artery. In addition, a patient was switched to femoral access due to the aberrant origin of the right subclavian artery. In the intervention group, there were 4 radial access failures due to difficult anatomy. In the first case, the patient's aortic arch anatomy and proximal left common carotid artery tortuosity prevented guide catheter placement into the left carotid artery. In the second case, the catheter could not be navigated due to proximal left common carotid artery tortuosity. In the third case, the benchmark guide catheter could not be advanced into the left common carotid artery due to significant angulation. In the fourth and final case, the complex radial artery loop could not be navigated. Total failure rates in the diagnostic and intervention groups were 5.7% and 15.2 %, respectively. No access site or other procedural complications were noted.

Conclusion

Neuro‐interventions are increasingly important concerning the aging population. The benefits of the trans‐radial approach have been well documented as safe and efficacious, with minimal access site complications. Our findings add to the literature, demonstrating that the trans‐radial approach is safe and effective for performing cerebral angiography and neuro‐interventions in octogenarian patients with acceptable crossover and no access site complications
A review and analysis of names and designations published for species and varieties of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae) by Adolf Engler (1844–1930) between 1892 and 1913
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: January 2025

During his career as a botanist, [Heinrich Gustav] Adolf Engler (1844–1930) validly published names for 15 taxa of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae), mostly at the rank of species. Additionally, two designations were published in two of his works that date from 1904 and 1906, respectively. The nomenclature and taxonomy of the names and designations that Engler published in Kalanchoe are reviewed and discussed in a historical context. The types of Engler’s Kalanchoe names are recorded and discussed, and corrections are made to some previous typifications. A selection of Engler’s kalanchoes is illustrated.
Novelties on Vasivaea Baill. (Malvaceae, Grewioideae, Grewieae) for the Colombian flora
Authors: TORREJANO-MUNEVAR ANDRÉS FELIPE , TAMAYO BORIS VILLANUEVA , AYMARD-CORREDOR GERARDO A.
Published: January 2025

A new species of Vasivaea Baill. (Malvaceae, Grewioideae, Grewieae) from central and northwestern Colombia is described, illustrated, and their morphological relationships with related species are discussed. Vasivaea distopo is a tree up to 20 m tall, common in floodplain lowland forests (20–220 m elev.) located in the middle Magdalena, the lower Cauca, Nechí, and Atrato river basins. It is characterized by its tubular androgynophore with free lobes in staminate flowers and obcordate fruit shape. Vasivaea distopo represents the first species of this genus recorded from outside the Amazon, Essequibo, and Orinoco River basins. Geographical and phenological information, data about its conservation status, and an updated key to species are presented.
6. Pragmatic matters
Authors: Navarro Danielle , Foxcroft David
Published: January 2025

This chapter offers a pragmatic exploration of data manipulation, addressing the often-messy realities of working with real-world datasets. It introduces foundational techniques for managing and preparing data, such as tabulating and cross-tabulating variables, using logical expressions, transforming variables, and extracting subsets of data. To provide clear and accessible examples, the chapter relies on small, illustrative datasets rather than complex real-world ones. Readers are encouraged to focus on grasping the basics, as this chapter serves more as a resource to revisit when encountering specific challenges rather than a comprehensive guide. Despite its practical nature, the chapter maintains a pedagogical approach, ensuring clarity in each technique.

The topics covered span a broad range of common tasks in data analysis. These include creating frequency tables, working with logical operators, and transforming variables using mathematical functions such as logarithms and exponentials. Additionally, it addresses the pragmatic need to collapse variables into discrete categories and to create reusable transformations for consistent application across datasets. While the content may initially seem overwhelming, readers are reassured that mastery of every detail is unnecessary for progressing through the book. Instead, the focus is on building a toolkit for real-world data challenges, with this chapter serving as a valuable reference for practical, hands-on data manipulation.
8. Estimating unknown quantities from a sample
Authors: Navarro Danielle , Foxcroft David
Published: January 2025

This chapter delves into the distinction between descriptive and inferential statistics, focusing on the latter’s aim of deriving knowledge about unknown population parameters from observed data. It introduces estimation theory, the first of two primary pillars of inferential statistics, following a foundational discussion on sampling theory. The chapter begins by exploring key concepts such as populations, samples, and the importance of sampling methods, distinguishing between random and biased sampling. Practical sampling methods such as simple random sampling, stratified sampling, snowball sampling, and convenience sampling are examined, with emphasis on their implications for statistical inference. The chapter underscores the criticality of understanding these concepts for designing studies and making valid inferences, noting that in real-world research, truly random samples are rare.

Building on this, the chapter explains the mathematical underpinnings of estimation through the law of large numbers and the central limit theorem. These principles demonstrate how sample statistics approximate population parameters as sample sizes increase, and why the sampling distribution of the mean becomes normal irrespective of the population’s initial distribution. The chapter also discusses practical techniques for estimating population means, variances, and standard deviations, noting common biases and how to adjust for them. Finally, it introduces confidence intervals as a way to express the uncertainty associated with parameter estimates, distinguishing between frequentist and Bayesian interpretations. The content provides a robust framework for understanding how statisticians use data to estimate population characteristics and addresses foundational tools essential for applied research.
10. Categorical data analysis
Authors: Navarro Danielle , Foxcroft David
Published: January 2025

This chapter introduces the foundational concepts and methods of categorical data analysis, focusing on the chi-square (χ²) tests. It begins by exploring the theory and application of the χ² goodness-of-fit test, a statistical tool used to compare observed frequencies in categorical data against expected distributions under a null hypothesis. Through examples such as simulated randomness in human behaviour and card choice experiments, the chapter elucidates the importance of translating observed phenomena into statistical hypotheses. The mathematical notation, calculation of test statistics, and interpretation of results are explained in detail, including how to assess the rejection of null hypotheses and the role of degrees of freedom in shaping test outcomes. The chapter also describes how to undertake these analyses in jamovi.

In addition to the goodness-of-fit test, the chapter examines the χ² test of independence, which assesses relationships between two categorical variables. By employing contingency tables and statistical constructs, the text illustrates hypothesis formulation and testing in scenarios where category associations are analysed. Alternative methods, such as the Fisher exact test and McNemar test, are introduced to address specific challenges like small sample sizes and repeated measures designs. The chapter emphasises practical considerations, such as ensuring independence of data and sufficient expected frequencies, and provides guidance on reporting results with clarity and relevance. For further exploration, the text recommends resources for advanced study in categorical data analysis.
11. Comparing two means
Authors: Navarro Danielle , Foxcroft David
Published: January 2025

In this chapter, we delve into the statistical techniques used to compare the means of two groups, particularly when the outcome variable is on an interval or ratio scale, and the predictor variable is binary. Such scenarios are prevalent in real-world applications across diverse fields like psychology, medicine, and agriculture. The primary focus is on the application of various forms of the t-test, including the one-sample, independent samples (Student and Welch), and paired-samples t-tests. These methods allow researchers to test hypotheses regarding mean differences between groups while considering key assumptions like normality and independence. Furthermore, the chapter introduces effect size metrics, particularly Cohen's d, as a measure of the magnitude of observed effects. Special attention is given to the interpretation of results, with clear guidance on reporting statistical outputs.

The chapter also explores practical methods for assessing the normality of data distributions, using tools like QQ plots and the Shapiro-Wilk test, and addresses the challenges posed by non-normal data. For such cases, nonparametric alternatives, including the Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon tests, are presented. The importance of aligning statistical tests with research design is underscored, highlighting when one-sided versus two-sided tests are appropriate. Through comprehensive examples and practical insights, the chapter equips readers with a robust understanding of how to evaluate mean differences effectively and report findings in a scientifically rigorous manner.
Understanding Factors Behind Two Patterns of English /æ/ Adaptation in Russian
Authors: Laidler Kateryna
Published: January 2025

Understanding Factors Behind Two Patterns of English /æ/ Adaptation in Russian
Phonological adaptation of loanwords usually involves the replacement of foreign sounds and phonemes with native ones. Since the front mid-low English vowel/æ/ is absent from the Russian phonetic inventory, in established borrowings from English into Russian it is most frequently nativised as two Russian vowels it resembles most, i.e. /ɛ/ and /a/, as in, for example, backhand /bɛkhɛnt/ and jazz /dʐas/. However, to the best of our knowledge, so far there has been no attempt to analyse the factors behind this phenomenon. The present paper aims to identify the major mechanisms and patterns of ash-adaptation in Russian and discuss their theoretical implications for the debate concerning the nature of the loanword adaptation process.
The analysis of established loans shows the complexity of the English /æ/ nativisation in Russian. Its outcome depends on a number of factors such as the source accent and the phonological context the target vowel occurs in. Furthermore, the results of the online adaptation experiment we report on, in which native speakers of Russian were asked to transcribe English words using the Cyrillic notation, present a strong argument in favour of phonologically-driven perception.
 
Zrozumienie czynników stojących za dwoma wzorcami adaptacji angielskiego /æ/ w języku rosyjskim
Fonologiczna adaptacja zapożyczeń zwykle polega na zastąpieniu obcych fonemów rodzimymi. Ponieważ angielska samogłoska przednia otwarta /æ/ nie występuje w zasobie fonetycznym języka rosyjskiego, w utrwalonych zapożyczeniach z języka angielskiego jest ona najczęściej zastępowana dwiema rosyjskimi samogłoskami, które najbardziej przypomina, tj. /ɛ/ i /a/, jak na przykład w słowach backhand /bɛkhɛnt/ i jazz /dʐas/. Jednak według naszej wiedzy jak dotąd nie podjęto próby analizy czynników stojących za tym zjawiskiem. Niniejszy artykuł ma na celu zidentyfikowanie głównych mechanizmów i wzorców adaptacji samogłoski /æ/ w języku rosyjskim oraz omówienie ich teoretycznych implikacji dla dyskusji dotyczącej natury procesu adaptacji zapożyczeń.
Analiza utrwalonych zapożyczeń pokazuje złożoność adaptacji angielskiego /æ/ w języku rosyjskim. Jej rezultat zależy od szeregu czynników, takich jak odmiana angielszczyzny, z której pochodzi zapożyczenie, a także kontekst fonologiczny, w którym występuje samogłoska docelowa. Co więcej, omawiane wyniki przeprowadzonego zdalnie eksperymentu, w którym rodzimi użytkownicy języka rosyjskiego zostali poproszeni o zapisanie angielskich słów przy użyciu cyrylicy, stanowią istotny argument za percepcją determinowaną fonologicznie.
Vibrotactile Perception: Perspective Taking by Children Who Are Visually Impaired
Authors: Miletic G.
Published: January 2025

The study reported in this article compared the performance on perspective-taking tasks of congenitally blind children performing tasks through haptic exploration, congenitally blind children using a vibrotactile prosthetic device, and children with low vision using limited visual abilities. The vibrotactile prosthetic device improved the blind children’s performance on the perspective-taking tasks. When the visually impaired children were asked to perform the tasks through haptic exploration or the use of limited vision, the perspective-taking tasks did not adequately measure their perspective-taking abilities.
Revenue-Maximizing Shared Parking and Electric Vehicle Charging Management in Multi-Unit Dwellings
Authors: Zhang Ruolin , Kontou Eleftheria
Published: January 2025

In urban areas, searching for parking and electric vehicle (EV) charging can result in cruising, congestion, and environmental externalities. Recognizing the business opportunity of offering private parking and charging infrastructure access within multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) during daytime, we model a shared parking and EV charging management system. We maximize the revenue of MUD charging hubs in mixed land use, catering to public demand. Our approach accounts for the objectives of the two stakeholders involved: a demand model is fitted on the choices of EV charging users, and the supply model optimizes the allocation of parking and charging requests in an MUD parking lot. A binary integer linear programming model for the allocation of parking and charging spaces with a rolling horizon is integrated with matching rules that handle both parking and charging requests. In our numerical experiments in a neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, we estimate the performance of the MUD parking and charging system with metrics that include revenue, number of matchings, and utilization rates. At any given time, MUDs with lower prices attract more charging requests, particularly those of longer duration, resulting in higher revenue and greater charging utilization. Dynamic pricing facilitates a more equitable distribution of requests; as MUD parking lots reach capacity and their fees increase, other MUDs become more competitive, attracting additional requests. Comparing our method against first-come-first-served and optimal-solution benchmarks, we demonstrate our model’s effectiveness in dynamically managing mixed parking and charging demand in MUD charging hubs.
Managing Expectations: Understanding Parents’ Perceptions of Their Child’s Serious Illness
Authors: Kelly Katherine Patterson , Mooney-Doyle Kim , Waldron Mia , Knafl Kathleen A.
Published: January 2025

Parenting a seriously ill child is complex and emotionally intense. To further develop Hinds and colleagues’ Good Parent themes: “Keeping a Positive Outlook” and “Keeping a Realistic Outlook,” we reviewed grounded theories published in English language journals from January 2006 to April 2021 identifying 18 studies with relevant results. Parents’ efforts to keep a positive outlook included cognitive (e.g., remain hopeful, avoid negative thinking) and behavioral (e.g., monitoring child for signs of improvement, information seeking) actions. To keep a realistic outlook, parents acknowledged the serious nature of the condition, negative treatment effects, and limitations to treating the child normally. Parents holding both positive and realistic outlooks recognized the seriousness of their child’s illness and remained hopeful while preparing for their child’s death. Our analysis extends the understanding of how parents’ expectations regarding the course and outcome of their child’s illness shape cognitive and behavioral aspects of their parenting.
Adolescence Does Not Divert Sex Offending Adolescents of Color from Criminal Legal System Involvement
Authors: Stevenson Margaret C. , Picot Christian R. , Rivers Molly A.
Published: January 2025

After the United States Civil War, during Reconstruction, Southern states targeted Black youth and men for incarceration and forced labor, often charging them with rape, spawning the Black male rapist myth. This study explores evidence of a Reconstruction-era ethos in present-day treatment of youth of color accused of sexual assault. Specifically, we examined effects of perpetrator age and race on legal outcomes in 382 alleged child sexual abuse cases. There were 291 adult perpetrators (91% men, M age = 34; 76% White, 20% Black, 2% biracial, 2% Latinx, and 1% Asian) and 91 adolescent perpetrators (96% boys, M age = 14; 73% White, 22% Black, 4% biracial, and 1% Latinx). Supporting hypotheses, adolescent (vs. adult) perpetrators were less frequently arrested or referred for prosecution—but only when they were White. In contrast, for perpetrators of color, being an adolescent (vs. an adult) did not reduce arrest or prosecutorial referral likelihood. Additionally, cases involving adolescents of color (vs. White adolescents) were more immediately criminally investigated. Thus, youthfulness does not proffer protection from criminal legal system involvement for adolescents of color accused of sex offending—evidence of modern and persistent racism rooted in a nation’s past.
The crit: Making meaning with peers in fine art studio pedagogy
Authors: Cleary Rodrigues Miranda Clare
Published: January 2025

The event of meaning making in fine art studio pedagogy is explored in this paper through the enquiry into the practice of critique (colloquially known as ‘crit’). It will seek to understand the role of consensus (in the Kantian sense) and judgement in formative group critique feedback exchanges and how these concepts interplay with the concept of dissensus as developed by Rancière. It argues that joint inquiry into what an artwork does within a specific context provides insights into the creation of meaning for the developing artist as an individual and within a learning community.
Prognostic impact of primary versus secondary resistance to sorafenib in patients with HCC
Authors: Lei Jin , Dai Hongyuan , Zhang Ya , Ou Guangling , Peng Liang Zhi , Lu Yinying , Li Haiyang
Published: January 2025

Background:

Sorafenib is a first-line treatment option for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the impact of sorafenib resistance type on patient survival prediction and choice of second-line treatment regimen is unknown.

Objectives:

This study aims to explore the factors predicting resistance in patients with HCC receiving sorafenib, the impact of resistance on survival, and the optimal second-line treatment regimen.

Design:

This was a retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

We recruited all patients with advanced HCC who received first-line sorafenib from January 2019 to January 2023 in two medical centers in China. They were divided into primary and secondary resistance groups according to tumor progression within 3 months. Resistance was the primary outcome of this study. The secondary outcomes were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results:

A total of 424 patients met the inclusion criteria, including 165 patients (38.9%) in the primary group and 259 patients (61.1%) in the secondary group. The independent risk factors for primary resistance were alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) > 400 ng/mL and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) > 40 U/L. Patients in the primary group had significantly shorter median OS than those in the secondary group (9.0 months vs 23.0 months, p < 0.001). Compared with tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) monotherapy, the use of TKI plus PD-1 inhibitor combination therapy as second-line treatment conferred a longer median PFS (6.0 vs 10.0 months, p < 0.001) and OS (13.0 vs 22.0 months, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Sorafenib has a high incidence of primary resistance and short survival in patients who develop primary resistance. AFP and ALT are influential factors in primary resistance, and it is valuable to use these two metrics to guide the use of sorafenib. As second-line therapy, a TKI plus PD-1 inhibitor regimen should be preferentially recommended.
Intra-Articular Administration of Ganglioside Sugars Protects Cartilage from Progressive Degeneration in an Instability OA Rabbit Model
Authors: Hamasaki Masanari , Onodera Tomohiro , Furukawa Junichi , Todoh Masahiro , Sakai Yuma , Ebata Taku , Terkawi Mohamad Alaa , Homan Kentaro , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: January 2025

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that has no cure, and current therapies are intended to minimize pain. There is, therefore, a need for effective pharmacologic agents that reverse or slow the progression of joint damage. We report herein on an investigation of the effects of intra-articular injections of ganglioside sugars on the progression of OA in an experimental rabbit model.

Design

Knee OA was induced Japanese in White rabbits by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT). Ganglioside sugars at concentrations of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.9 mg/ml were then intra-articularly injected as a possible treatment for OA. Controls received intra-articular injections of saline. Knees were assessed macroscopically, histologically, and mechanically at 13 weeks after ACLT induction.

Results

Macroscopically, knees of the groups that received ganglioside sugars at concentrations of 0.3 and 0.9 mg/ml exhibited milder cartilage degradation compared to the controls. Consistent with these results, histological scores for these knees were significantly higher than the corresponding values for the control knees. Lectin histochemistry staining revealed that the treatment with ganglioside sugars at concentrations of 0.3 and 0.9 mg/ml was associated with a remarkable increase in the levels of GalNAc-positive chondrocytes in cartilage. Coefficient of friction testing also demonstrated that cartilages treated with ganglioside sugars had a lower coefficient of frictions than the values for the control group.

Conclusions

Intra-articular injections of ganglioside sugars prevented cartilage degeneration in an OA-instability model. These results highlight the promising therapeutic potential for using ganglioside sugars in the treatment of progressive OA.
North American study and meta-analysis evaluating performance of Bladder EpiCheck®, a FDA cleared test, in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer recurrence
Authors: Fleshner Neil , Grossman Herbert Barton , Berglund Ryan , Hafron Jason , Inman Brant , Karsh Lawrence , Moses Kelvin , Saltzstein Daniel , Shah Anup , Wright Jonathan , Witjes Johannes Alfred , Lotan Yair
Published: January 2025

Background

Bladder EpiCheck (BE) is a novel methylation-based PCR urine test for the detection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) recurrences.

Objective

We present the results of a North American study evaluating BE and meta-analysis of literature.

Methods

A prospective, blinded, multicenter study was conducted in North America. Voided urine was collected from NMIBC patients prior to cystoscopic surveillance. BE testing was performed centrally. For the meta-analysis, a PUBMED search was performed to identify all published peer-reviewed clinical studies of BE for NMIBC surveillance.

Results

In this study, 674 patients were enrolled of which 449 were included. Overall sensitivity was 67% (95%CI 58%-74%), specificity was 84% (80%-88%), PPV was 65% (57%-73%) and NPV was 85% (81%-89%). For high-grade (HG) recurrence, sensitivity was 77% (65%-85%) and NPV was 95% (92%-97%). In patients with negative cystoscopy and cytology at the first study visit, risk of subsequent recurrence in 12 months was 5.3 (2.7–10.3) times higher in patients with positive BE vs. negative BE (p < 0.0001). In patients with negative cystoscopy and equivocal cytology, BE was positive in 75–89% of those with later HG recurrence, with PPV of 42% (15%-72%)-63% (38%-84%). The meta-analysis included 7 studies and 1564 patients. Overall sensitivity was 82% (66–92%), HG sensitivity was 91% (82–95%), specificity was 85% (80–88%), PPV was 60% (55–64%) and HG NPV was 98% (97–99%).

Conclusions

The consistently strong performance of BE indicate that a positive test could improve timely disease recurrence detection and a negative test could rule-out HG disease. Furthermore, the low rate of false positive results, potentially minimizes unnecessary downstream procedures and patient anxiety.
Sternoclavicular Joint Reconstruction Using the Sternal Docking Technique
Authors: Raji Yazdan , Loughran Galvin J. , Bugarinovic George , Freehill Michael T.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) dislocations may occur as the result of traumatic injury, ligamentous laxity, or chronic arthropathy. While initial management of anterior sternoclavicular dislocations is typically nonoperative treatment, patients with symptomatic chronic dislocation may benefit from reconstruction. In this video, we describe the sternal docking technique for SCJ reconstruction using a semitendinosus allograft augmented with a biologic collagen scaffold.

Indications:

Current indications for SCJ reconstruction include acute posterior dislocations, symptomatic chronic anterior dislocations, and cases of symptomatic arthropathies of the SCJ.

Technique Description:

In a lazy beach-chair position, a curvilinear incision is made over the anterior SCJ centered over the inferior portion of the joint. After exposure of the joint, the intra-articular disc and 5 mm of medial clavicle are resected. A 4-mm bur is used to open the intramedullary canal on the articular facet of the manubrium and the medial clavicle. Additional perforations to act as tunnels are made on the anterior aspects of the manubrium and medial clavicle both superiorly and inferiorly, and a small curved curette is used to widen the tunnels and connect them to their respective intramedullary canals to allow for graft passage. The semitendinosus graft is whipstitched to a biologic collagen shoestring scaffold and passed through the tunnels. The joint is reduced, and the graft is sutured together over the top of the medial clavicle with appropriate tension.

Results:

The sternal docking technique was successfully implemented for the reconstruction of a chronic anterior SCJ dislocation and allowed the patient to return to full pain-free activity by 16 weeks.

Discussion:

Chronic anterior SCJ dislocations may fail to respond to conservative treatment measures necessitating operative reconstruction. The sternal docking technique using semitendinosus allograft augmented with a biologic shoestring scaffold described here is a safe and effective reconstructive technique.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.