bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Aqueductal Stenosis: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study through the North American Fetal Therapy Network
Authors: Emery Stephen P. , Lopa Samia , Peterson Erika , Jelin Angie C. , Treadwell Marjorie C. , Gebb Juliana , Galan Henry L. , Bergh Eric , Criebaum Amanda , McLennan Amelia , Lillegard Joseph , Blumenfeld Yair J.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: A critical component of an evidence-based reassessment of in-utero intervention for fetal aqueductal stenosis (fetal AS) is determining if the prenatal diagnosis can be accurately made at a gestational age amenable to in-utero intervention. Methods: A multicenter, prospective, observational study was conducted through the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet). Pregnancies complicated by severe central nervous system (CNS) ventriculomegaly (lateral ventricle diameter >15 mm) not secondary to a primary diagnosis (myelomeningocele, encephalocele, etc.) were recruited at diagnosis. Imaging and laboratory findings were recorded in an online REDCap database. After evaluation, investigators were asked to render their degree of confidence in the diagnosis of fetal AS. The prenatal diagnosis was compared to the postnatal diagnosis obtained through neonatal neuroimaging. Performance characteristics of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were calculated, as was the mean gestational age at diagnosis. Results: Between April 2015 and October 2022, eleven NAFTNet centers contributed 64 subjects with severe fetal CNS ventriculomegaly. Of these, 56 had both prenatal and postnatal diagnoses recorded. Ultrasound revealed 32 fetal AS true positives, 4 false positives, 7 false negatives, and 13 true negatives, rendering a sensitivity of 0.82, a specificity of 0.76, a positive predictive value of 0.89, and a negative predictive value of 0.65. The mean gestational age at diagnosis by ultrasound was 25.5 weeks (std +/− 4.7 weeks). The proportion of agreement (true positive + true negative/n) was highest at 24 weeks gestation. For fetal MRI (n = 35), the sensitivity for fetal AS was 0.95, specificity was 0.69, positive predictive value was 0.84, and negative predictive value was 0.90. MRI was performed at 25 weeks on average. Conclusion: The prenatal diagnosis of fetal AS can be made with accuracy at a gestational age potentially amenable to in-utero intervention. Only 7% of subjects were incorrectly diagnosed prenatally with fetal AS by ultrasound and 11% by MRI. Diagnostic accuracy of fetal AS will likely improve with increased experience.
E-People: juventudes em rede
Authors: Sávio Eduardo Henrique Esteves Caniato
Published: February 2024

Just before the Covid-19 pandemic, a new youth culture related to the internet was already emerging. Such culture had an even greater growth boom due to the use of the social network TikTok and the pandemic social isolation, causing young people to spend more at home and use more social networks to communicate. The emergence and proliferation of culture through the internet is not new, as are not the youth cultures that were once classied as urban subcultures or tribes. In this work, a systematic description of this culture known as E-Girls and E-Boys was sought: their relationships, their behaviors, their cultural production, as well as their appearance, communication and their specic features.
Ação coletiva e participação política: experiências de jovens na passagem da adolescência para a vida adulta
Authors: Xavier Sara Martin
Published: February 2024

Este artículo discute algunos resultados de una investigación sobre las prácticas de participación de quince jóvenes de 19 años, ex alumnos de dos escuelas públicas de la ciudad de São Paulo. En 2020, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas individualmente con cada uno de estos jóvenes con el objetivo de rescatar sus experiencias de participación como estudiantes de secundaria, mapear sus prácticas participativas posteriores al bachillerato e identicar los signicados atribuidos a sus experiencias en el paso de la adolescencia a la vida adulta. Aquí se rechaza el discurso de sentido común de que los jóvenes son politicamente apáticos: los relatos muestran que estos jóvenes son parte de un proceso más amplio de reconguración de las acciones colectivas y de la participación política, que busca preservar la autonomía, la autenticidad y la subjetividad de los individuos, en un contexto de diversicación y fragmentación de la experiencia social.
Deslocamentos tradutórios: a relação inventiva entre os Yanomami e Claudia Andujar
Authors: Assumpção Luara de Souza Ferreira , Santana Matheus Ribeiro de , Cavalcanti Julia Rampazzo
Published: February 2024

A obra de Claudia Andujar pode ser pensada a partir de inúmeros prognósticos da antropologia contemporânea. Aqui, a partir da exposição Claudia Andujar: a luta Yanomami, propomos uma leitura baseada nas concepções de Roy Wagner, de modo a enfatizar a capacidade humana de invenção criativa, que o estranhamento e a alteridade radical entre distintos universos de significados propiciam aos termos de uma relação. Sejam eles: os xapiri e os xamãs ou Andujar e os Yanomami – em sua composição subjetiva, como é visto nos desenhos produzidos em “peles de papel”. Portanto, entre os termos, existem deslocamentos de analogias metafóricas, que estabelecem mediação, tornam visíveis as culturas e as objetivam através da tradução mútua dos universos de significados e da suspensão de seus pressupostos convencionados a priori. Linha argumentativa, que aqui, indicará um movimento que coloca em xeque os pressupostos convencionados pelo ocidente moderno.
Cardiac Pulsed Field Ablation Lesion Durability Assessed by Polarization-Sensitive Optical Coherence Reflectometry
Authors: Terricabras Maria , Martins Raphael P. , Peinado Rafael , Derejko Paweł , Mont Lluís , Ernst Sabine , Herranz David , Bailleul Christophe , Verma Atul
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pulsed field ablation uses electrical fields to cause nonthermal cell death over several hours. Polarization-sensitive optical coherence reflectometry is an optical imaging technique that can detect changes in the tissue ultrastructure in real time, which occurs when muscular tissue is damaged. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of a polarization-sensitive optical coherence reflectometry system to predict the development of chronic lesions based on acute changes in tissue birefringence during pulsed field ablation.

METHODS:

Superior vena cava isolation was performed in 30 swine using a biphasic, bipolar pulsed field ablation system delivered with a nonirrigated focal tip catheter. Acute changes in tissue birefringence and voltage abatement were analyzed for each individual lesion. A high-resolution electroanatomical map was performed at baseline and 4 to 12 weeks after ablation to locate electrical gaps in the ablated area.

RESULTS:

A total of 141 lesions were delivered and included in the analysis. Acute electrical isolation based on the electroanatomical map was achieved in 96% of the animals, but chronic isolation was only seen in 14 animals (46%). The mean voltage abatement of lesions that showed recovery was 82.8%±14.6% versus 84.4%±17.4% for those that showed fibrosis (
P
=0.7). The mean acute reduction in tissue birefringence in points demonstrating fibrosis was 63.8%±11.3% versus 9.1%±0.1% in the points that resulted in electrical gaps. A threshold of acute reduction of birefringence of ≥20% could predict chronic lesion formation with a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 83%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Acute tissue birefringence changes assessed with polarization-sensitive optical coherence reflectometry during pulsed field ablation can predict chronic lesion formation and guide the ablation procedure although limited by the tissue thickness.
Impact of Embedding a Venous Thromboembolism Risk Assessment Model in the Electronic Health Record Versus Usual Care: A Cluster-Randomized Trial
Authors: Rothberg Michael B. , Hamilton Aaron C. , Hu Bo , Sheehan Megan , Fox Jacqueline , Milinovich Alex , Lisheba Oleg , Goto Toyomi , Speaker Sidra L. , Pappas Matthew A.
Published: February 2024

Background:

There are multiple risk assessment models (RAMs) for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, but it is unknown whether they increase appropriate prophylaxis.

Methods:

To determine the impact of a RAM embedded in the electronic health record, we conducted a stepped-wedge hospital-level cluster-randomized trial conducted from October 1, 2017 to February 28, 2019 at 10 Cleveland Clinic hospitals. We included consecutive general medical patients aged 18 years or older. Patients were excluded if they had a contraindication to prophylaxis, including anticoagulation for another condition, acute bleeding, or comfort-only care. A RAM was embedded in the general admission order set and physicians were encouraged to use it. The decisions to use the RAM and act on the results were reserved to the treating physician. The primary outcome was the percentage of patients receiving appropriate prophylaxis (high-risk patients with pharmacological thromboprophylaxis plus low-risk patients without prophylaxis) within 48 hours of hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included total patients receiving prophylaxis, venous thromboembolism among high-risk patients at 14 and 45 days, major bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and length of stay. Mixed-effects models were used to analyze the study outcomes.

Results:

A total of 26 506 patients (mean age, 61; 52% female; 73% White) were analyzed, including 11 134 before and 15 406 after implementation of the RAM. After implementation, the RAM was used for 24% of patients, and the percentage of patients receiving appropriate prophylaxis increased from 43.1% to 48.8% (adjusted odds ratio, 1.11 [1.00–1.23]), while overall prophylaxis use decreased from 73.5% to 65.2% (adjusted odds ratio, 0.87 [0.78–0.97]). Rates of venous thromboembolism among high-risk patients (adjusted odds ratio, 0.72 [0.38–1.36]), rates of bleeding and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (adjusted odds ratio, 0.19 [0.02–1.47]), and length of stay were unchanged.

Conclusions:

Implementation of a RAM for venous thromboembolism increased appropriate prophylaxis use, but the RAM was used for a minority of patients.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03243708?term=nct03243708&rank=1
; Unique identifier: NCT03243708.
Carotid Artery Stenting for Heavily Calcified Lesions Using a Scoring Balloon: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Takenobu Yohei , Nomura Noriko , Sugita Yoshito , Okada Akihiro , Kawauchi Takeshi , Yang Tao , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: February 2024

Objective

Carotid artery stenting for heavily calcified lesions is challenging for interventionists. A calcium burden is associated with suboptimal dilatation, periprocedural complications, high rates of restenosis, and poor outcomes. We describe the first report of 2 cases of successful carotid artery stenting for heavily calcified lesions using a scoring balloon.

Case Presentation

The patients were both aged 75 years, 1 male and 1 female, who had experienced ipsilateral stroke prior to the procedures. They had dense calcifications at the lesions, stenosis rates of 95% (near occlusion) and 86% according to the North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial criteria, and calcification arcs of 270° and 360°, respectively. Considering the heavy calcification, predilation with scoring balloons (NSE PTA balloon; Nipro, Osaka, Japan) at the rated burst pressure was performed in both cases. Sufficient dilatation was achieved, followed by carotid stent deployment (Precise Pro RX; Cordis, Miami Lakes, FL, USA). After postdilatation, the stenosis rates decreased to 21% and 23%, respectively. Although 1 patient experienced prolonged bradycardia and hypotension, they were well managed with anticholinergic and vasoconstrictive agents. Both patients remained asymptomatic.

Conclusion

Carotid artery stenting using a scoring balloon obtained acceptable improvements in severe stenosis with heavily calcified lesions. This method could be a useful option for the revascularization of heavily calcified lesions.
Distinct neocortical mechanisms underlie human SI responses to median nerve and laser-evoked peripheral activation
Authors: Thorpe Ryan V. , Black Christopher J. , Borton David A. , Hu Li , Saab Carl Y. , Jones Stephanie R.
Published: February 2024

Magneto- and/or electro-encephalography (M/EEG) are non-invasive clinically relevant tools that have long been used to measure electromagnetic fields in the somatosensory cortex evoked by innocuous and noxious somatosensory stimuli. Two commonly applied stimulation paradigms that produce distinct responses in the primary somatosensory cortex (SI) linked to innocuous and noxious sensations are electrical median nerve (MN) stimulation and cutaneous laser-evoked (LE) stimulation to the dorsum of the hand, respectively. Despite their prevalence, the physiological mechanisms that produce stereotypic macroscale MN and LE responses have yet to be fully articulated, limiting their utility in understanding brain dynamics associated with non-painful and/or painful somatosensation. Through a literature review, we detailed features of MN and LE responses source-localized to SI that are robust and reproducible across studies. We showed that the first peak in the MN response at ~20 ms post-stimulus (i.e., MN N1) corresponds to upward-directed deep-to-superficial electrical current flow through the cortical laminae, which is followed by downward-directed current at ~30 ms (i.e., MN P1). In contrast, the initial LE response occurs later at ~170 ms (i.e., LE N1) and is directed downward and opposite the direction of the MN N1. We then examined the neocortical circuit mechanisms contributing to the robust features of each response using the Human Neocortical Neurosolver (HNN) neural modeling software tool (Neymotin et al., 2020). Using HNN as a hypothesis development and testing tool, model results predicted the MN response can be simulated with a sequence of layer-specific thalamocortical and cortico-cortical synaptic drive similar to that previously reported for tactile evoked responses (S. R. Jones et al., 2007; Neymotin et al., 2020), with the novel discovery that an early excitatory input to supragranular layers at ~30 ms is an essential mechanism contributing to the downward current flow of the MN P1. Model results further predicted that the initial ~170 ms downward current flow of the LE N1 was generated by a burst of repetitive gamma-frequency (~40 Hz) excitatory synaptic drive to supragranular layers, consistent with prior reports of LE gamma-frequency activity. These results make novel and detailed multiscale predictions about the dynamic laminar circuit mechanisms underlying temporal and spectral features of MN and LE responses in SI and can guide further investigations in follow-up studies. Ultimately, these findings may help with the development of targeted therapeutics for pathological somatosensation, such as somatic sensitivity and acute neuropathic pain.
Developmental Roots of Human Self-consciousness
Authors: Rochat Philippe
Published: February 2024

Human consciousness is considered in the perspective of early development. Infants and young children remind us that at its core, the problem of consciousness is primarily a problem of identity, in particular a problem of self-identity with others in mind. It is about how we feel and construe ourselves as an entity among other entities. It is about becoming co-conscious: Aware of oneself through the evaluative eyes of others. This development unfolds in the first 18 months of life, following major steps that are described, and arguably considered as a human trademark.
Metacognitive Awareness and the Subjective Experience of Remembering in Aphantasia
Authors: Siena Michael J. , Simons Jon S.
Published: February 2024

Individuals with aphantasia, a nonclinical condition typically characterized by mental imagery deficits, often report reduced episodic memory. However, findings have hitherto rested largely on subjective self-reports, with few studies experimentally investigating both objective and subjective aspects of episodic memory in aphantasia. In this study, we tested both aspects of remembering in aphantasic individuals using a custom 3-D object and spatial memory task that manipulated visuospatial perspective, which is considered to be a key factor determining the subjective experience of remembering. Objective and subjective measures of memory performance were taken for both object and spatial memory features under different perspective conditions. Surprisingly, aphantasic participants were found to be unimpaired on all objective memory measures, including those for object memory features, despite reporting weaker overall mental imagery experience and lower subjective vividness ratings on the memory task. These results add to newly emerging evidence that aphantasia is a heterogenous condition, where some aphantasic individuals may lack metacognitive awareness of mental imagery rather than mental imagery itself. In addition, we found that both participant groups remembered object memory features with greater precision when encoded and retrieved in the first person versus third person, suggesting a first-person perspective might facilitate subjective memory reliving by enhancing the representational quality of scene contents.
A Machine Learning Study of Anxiety-related Symptoms and Error-related Brain Activity
Authors: Grabowska Anna , Sondej Filip , Senderecka Magdalena
Published: February 2024

Changes in error processing are observable in a range of anxiety-related disorders. Numerous studies, however, have reported contradictory and nonreplicating findings, thus the exact mapping of brain response to errors (i.e., error-related negativity [ERN]; error-related positivity [Pe]) onto specific anxiety symptoms remains unclear. In this study, we collected 16 self-reported scores of anxiety dimensions and obtained spatial features of EEG recordings from 171 individuals. We then used machine learning to (1) identify symptoms that are central for elevated ERN/Pe and (2) estimate the generalizability of traditional statistical approaches. ERN was associated with rumination, threat overestimation, and inhibitory intolerance of uncertainty. Pe was associated with rumination, prospective intolerance of uncertainty, and behavioral inhibition. Our findings emphasize that not only the amplitude of ERN but also other sources of brain signal variance encode information relevant to individual differences in error processing. The results of the generalizability check reveal the need for a change in result-validation methods to move toward robust findings that reflect stable individual differences and clinically useful biomarkers. Our study benefits from the use of machine learning to improve the generalizability of results.
Nonfrontal Control of Working Memory
Authors: Christophel Thomas , Weber Simon , Yan Chang , Stopak Lee , Hetzer Stefan , Haynes John-Dylan
Published: February 2024

Items held in visual working memory can be quickly updated, replaced, removed, and even manipulated in accordance with current behavioral goals. Here, we use multivariate pattern analyses to identify the patterns of neuronal activity that realize the executive control processes supervising these flexible stores. We find that portions of the middle temporal gyrus and the intraparietal sulcus represent what item is cued for continued memorization independently of representations of the item itself. Importantly, this selection-specific activity could not be explained by sensory representations of the cue and is only present when control is exerted. Our results suggest that the selection of memorized items might be controlled in a distributed and decentralized fashion. This evidence provides an alternative perspective to the notion of “domain general” central executive control over memory function.
Two new species of Epirhyssa (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Rhyssinae) from Costa Rica
Authors: ZUÑIGA RONALD , HANSON PAUL
Published: February 2024

As a result of continuing research on the ichneumonid wasps of Costa Rica, two new species of Epirhyssa (Rhyssinae) are described: E. leonoreae and E. lewisi. A key is provided for the identification of all 14 species now known to occur in the country.
Exploration of the Potential Mechanism of Succus Bambusae Ameliorating Obesity and Hyperlipidemia in High-Fat Diet Apoe-/-Mice and Caenorhabditis Elegans by Network Pharmacology Combined with Transcriptomic Approach
Authors: Tang Mingxia , Jiang Zhenhong , Xu Youhui , Tu Liangxing , Zeng Huimin , Zhang Yutian , Wang Jian , Wu Zhenfeng , Xu Huanhua , Yang Ming
Published: February 2024

Obesity and hyperlipidemia have become a global public health problem, and bamboo leaves have a positive intervention effect on them. As a common medicinal form of bamboo in clinical practice, the therapeutic effect and mechanism of Succus Bambusae on obesity and hyperlipidemia are still unclear. To this end, two animal models of hyperlipidemia, Apoe-/-mice and Caenorhabditis ele-gans (C. elegans), were used to study the therapeutic effect and potential mechanism of Succus Bambusae on hyperlipidemic by pharmacodynamics, network pharmacology and transcriptomics approachs. The results showed that Succus Bambusae could significantly reduce the lipid accumulation in nematodes, reduce the body weight and liver lipid accumulation in Apoe-/-mice, and significantly reduce the levels of TG and FBG in plasma. Both the arachidonic acid metabolism and the steroid hormone biosynthesis signaling pathways were included in the KEGG pathways enrichment results of network pharmacology and transcriptomics analysis. RT-qPCR results showed that XZL can effectively decrease the transcriptional levels of UGT1A5 and CYP1A1. In summary, XZL can effectively alleviate obesity and hyperlipidemia induced by high-fat diet, which is achieved by regulating the steroid hormone biosynthesis signaling pathways.
Effects of Intraseasonal Oscillation on Timing and Subseasonal Predictability of Mei-yu Onset over the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Wei Sizhuo , Hsu Pang-Chi , Xie Jinhui
Published: February 2024

The time of rainy season onset is crucial information for policymakers, especially in densely populated regions such as the Yangtze River basin (YRB) in China. In this study, we proposed a new grid-based index to objectively detect mei-yu onset timing using reanalysis data and model predictions, and then we identified the key processes via which intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) affects the YRB mei-yu onset and its subseasonal predictability based on scale-decomposed moisture analysis. Climatologically, propagation of an ISO anticyclonic anomaly toward East China supports the moisture convergence required for rainy season onset over the YRB via interaction with the seasonal-mean moisture component. In the years of early mei-yu onset, the ISO was enhanced earlier in May and favored the moisture convergence anomaly in late May–early June, when the mei-yu started. In contrast, the enhanced ISO and associated moistening processes were observed later in June–early July in the years with delayed onset. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts and National Centers for Environmental Prediction models show skillful prediction of mei-yu onset at forecast lead times of 5–6 pentads, whereas the China Meteorological Administration model has limited skill of 3 pentads. The differences in model prediction skill are related to the accuracy of predicted moisture convergence anomalies induced by the ISO. The prediction bias in mei-yu onset timing (early or delayed) is also connected to bias in the occurrence timing of enhanced intraseasonal perturbations, suggesting the vital role of ISO in YRB mei-yu onset on the subseasonal time scale.
Laser-Induced Plasmas of Plutonium Dioxide in a Double-Walled Cell
Authors: Villa-Aleman Eliel , Kwapis Emily H. , Foley Bryan J. , Shehee Thomas C. , Dick Don D. , Darvin Jason R. , Ajo Henry M. , Hartig Kyle C.
Published: February 2024

Plutonium research has been stifled by the significant number of administrative controls and safety procedures, space and instrumentation limitations in radiological gloveboxes, and the potential for personnel and equipment contamination. To address the limited number of spectroscopic studies in Pu-bearing compounds in the current scientific literature, this work presents the use of double-walled cells (DWCs) in “clean” buildings/laboratories as an alternative to research in radiological gloveboxes. This study reports the first laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) experiments of a PuO2 pellet contained within a DWC, where the formation of elemental (atomic and ionic) species as well as the evolution from elemental to molecular products (Pu xO y) was measured. Raman spectroscopy was also used to characterize the surface of the ablated pellet and the particulates deposited on the window of the inner cell. The full width half-maximum of the T2g band enabled us to obtain an estimate of the temperature at the pellet surface after the ablation pulse and the particulates based on the crystal lattice disorder. Particulates deposited on the window of the DWC during laser ablation were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, where molten irregular particulates and spheroids were observed. This exciting research conducted in a DWC describes our initial attempts to incorporate LIBS in the arsenal of spectroscopic tools for nuclear forensics applications.
Against the Clock: Crime Victim Compensation Law and Temporality Across the 50 United States
Authors: Montanez Julio , Donley Amy
Published: February 2024

Violence can result in insurmountable losses for victim-survivors. Restitutive and compensatory measures have been historically and contemporarily implemented to address these harms. Crime victim compensation (CVC) is a means by which the state reimburses victim-survivors of violent harm without relying on offender restitution. Overall, the current study argues that CVC laws and regulations may marginalize victim-survivors by regulating the body through crime-reporting and application time limits, as well as through wait times for compensation receipt. With this argument, the current study aims to use a content analysis and quantitative analysis to examine the intricacies of crime-reporting and application time limits detailed within statutes and administrative regulations across the 50 United States, as well as benefit receipt wait times.
Regional Nuclear Disarmament and Non-Proliferation: A Case of CANWFZ Treaty
Authors: Gautam Aashriti
Published: February 2024

Nuclear weapons are highly potent and devastating instruments found in the military stockpiles of contemporary nations. The immense magnitude and pace of devastation that nuclear weapons may cause, coupled with the relative ease with which governments can acquire these offensive capabilities and the inability to effectively defend against a nuclear assault, render nuclear weapons highly valuable. Against this true but bitter reality of the present world order, the author posits that creating nuclear-weapon-free zones (NWFZ) on a regional scale can serve as a beacon of hope and a significant catalyst in the global effort to achieve a nuclear-weapon-free world. To further analyse this idea, the author explores NWFZ and their relevance to regional denuclearization by focusing on the Central Asian nuclear-weapon-free zone (CANWFZ) treaty. The article is divided into four sections. The first section includes a review of contemporary literature about disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. The second section examines the development of the CANWFZ and its commitment to the objectives of disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. The third section involves assessing the barriers to this regional cooperation that impede its full implementation. Section four explores the potential reformative strategies that can improve the effectiveness of CANWFZ and elevate it to a model for other regional groupings in achieving a nuclear-free world.
Pandemic Grief and Suicidal Ideation in Latin American Countries: A Network Analysis
Authors: Caycho-Rodríguez Tomás , Baños-Chaparro Jonatan , Ventura-León José , Lee Sherman A. , Vilca Lindsey W. , Carbajal-León Carlos , Yupanqui-Lorenzo Daniel E. , Valencia Pablo D. , Reyes-Bossio Mario , Oré-Kovacs Nicol , Rojas-Jara Claudio , Gallegos Miguel , Polanco-Carrasco Roberto , Cervigni Mauricio , Martino Pablo , Lobos-Rivera Marlon Elías , Moreta-Herrera Rodrigo , Palacios Segura Diego Alejandro , Samaniego-Pinho Antonio , Buschiazzo Figares Andrés , Puerta-Cortés Diana Ximena , Camargo Andrés , Torales Julio , Monge Blanco José Arkangel , González Pedronel , Smith-Castro Vanessa , Petzold-Rodriguez Olimpia , Calderón Raymundo , Matute Rivera Wendy Yamilet , Ferrufino-Borja Daniela , Muñoz-del-Carpio-Toia Agueda , Palacios Jorge , Burgos-Videla Carmen , Florez León Ana María Eduviges , Vergara Ibeth , Vega Diego , Schulmeyer Marion K. , Urrutia Rios Hassell Tatiana , Lira Lira Arelly Esther , Barria-Asenjo Nicol A. , Ayala-Colqui Jesús , Hualparuca-Olivera Luis
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to characterize the network structure of pandemic grief symptoms and suicidal ideation in 2174 people from eight Latin American countries. Pandemic grief and suicidal ideation were measured using the Pandemic Grief Scale and a single item, respectively. Network analysis provides an in-depth characterization of symptom-symptom interactions within mental disorders. The results indicated that, “desire to die,” “apathy” and “absence of sense of life” are the most central symptoms in a pandemic grief symptom network; therefore, these symptoms could be focal elements for preventive and treatment efforts. Suicidal ideation, the wish to die, and the absence of meaning in life had the strongest relationship. In general, the network structure did not differ among the participating countries. It identifies specific symptoms within the network that may increase the likelihood of their co-occurrence and is useful at the therapeutic level.
Withdrawal model for fiber motions in the tuft disentanglement
Authors: Qian Xixi , Zhou Yuyang , Ruan Jun , Yu Chongwen
Published: February 2024

Tuft disentanglement involves the principal actions of opening and carding, which are essential processing in textile technology. In this article, tuft disentanglement is modeled as fiber withdrawal considering the fiber interactions within the tuft. Based on the reasonable tuft model, the kinematic constraints were constructed in the disentanglement considering the carding essence and fiber interactions. Combined with the dynamic equation, the state of the fibers can be solved as a linear complementarity problem due to the complementarity in the fiber interactions. The withdrawal forces verified the simulations, which capture the qualitative features of experiments. Also, the effect of the withdrawal parameters on disentanglement was studied. The simulation results showed that the withdrawal forces increased with increasing withdrawal velocities and decreasing gauge lengths. The simulation results are consistent with the experiments. The proposed computational framework can be extended for predicting the mechanical behaviors of other random fibrous materials involving fiber interactions.
Leveling Up Learning: Exploring Meaningful Gamification in Psychology Courses
Authors: Stansbury Jessica A. , Earnest David R.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: As instructors continue to search for innovative and interactive methods, incorporating games and game elements into higher education is increasingly more prominent. Statement of the Problem: While the role of play in cognitive, social, and emotional development is well-understood, there is need for deeper exploration into the practical application of meaningful gamification, especially within psychology courses. Literature Review: Few studies focus on the application of gamification in psychology, and this paper discusses the concept of meaningful gamification and its potential benefits in the classroom. Teaching Implications: This research addresses the real-world advantages and challenges of implementing meaningful gamification, while also outlining potential future directions for educators and researchers in the realm of psychology education. Conclusion: Opportunity exists within psychology courses to implement and advance the study of meaningful gamification via innovative instructional gamification approaches in pedagogy.
Robust H∞ observer-based model predictive controller for uncertain linear discrete-time systems due to external disturbances
Authors: Zare Esmaeil , Moattari Mazda , Derikvand Tajedin
Published: February 2024

This article investigates an observer-based robust model predictive control (RMPC) design to control the uncertain discrete-time linear systems with disturbances. To make a more practical scheme, it is supposed that the uncertain system has been faced with unknown disturbance and input constraints. The proposed RMPC approach is based on a state feedback control design that ensures the [Formula: see text] performance criterion to attenuate disturbance affections. Furthermore, in view of practical application, the control law is constructed based on the estimated states obtained from the Luenberger observer. Based on Lyapunov’s theory, the input to state practically stability (ISPS) of the closed-loop system is ensured. Appropriate conditions for the ISPS of the closed-loop system and the estimation error are obtained in terms of online linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which lead to obtaining the time-varying gain matrices of both controller and observer. Finally, to validate the obtained results, the proposed approach is applied to a numerical example and it is compared with the existing control scheme and the superiority is proved.
The Effect of Mixing Iodinated Contrast Media and Ultrasound Contrast Agents on Subharmonic Signals
Authors: Esposito Cara , Tzan Kenneth , Machado Priscilla , Forsberg Flemming , Dave Jaydev K.
Published: February 2024

Subharmonic aided pressure estimation (SHAPE) is a technique that utilizes subharmonic signals from microbubble contrast agents for pressure estimation. Validation of the SHAPE technique relies on synchronous measurements of in vivo pressures using contrast microbubbles and a pressure catheter (reference standard). For the guidance and placement of pressure catheter in vivo, iodinated contrast is used with fluoroscopy. Therefore, during data acquisition for validation studies of the SHAPE technique, both contrast microbubbles and iodinated contrast are present simultaneously within the vasculature. This study aims to elucidate the effects of iodinated contrast (Visipaque, GE HealthCare) on subharmonic signal amplitude from contrast microbubbles (Definity, Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc.). In an acrylic water tank, 0.06 mL of Definity and varied amounts of Visipaque (0.14, 0.43, 0.85, and 1.70 mL) were added to 425 mL of deionized water. Ultrasound scanning was performed with a SonixTablet scanner (BK Medical Systems) using optimized parameters for SHAPE with Definity ( ftransmit/receive = 3.0/1.5 MHz; chirp down pulse). Subharmonic data was acquired and analyzed at 9 different incident acoustic outputs ( n = 3). Results showed an increase in subharmonic signal amplitude from Definity microbubbles in the presence of 0.14 mL Visipaque by 2.8 ± 1.3 dB ( p < .001), no change with 0.85 mL Visipaque (0.7 ± 1.2 dB; p = .09) and a decrease in subharmonic amplitude in the presence of 1.70 mL Visipaque by 1.9 ± 0.7 dB ( p < .001). While statistically significant effect on subharmonic signal amplitude of Definity microbubbles was noted due to the mixture, the magnitude of the effect was minimal (~2.8 dB) and unlikely to impact in vivo SHAPE measurements.
Setting standards for a diagnostic test of aviation English for student pilots
Authors: Treadaway Maria , Read John
Published: February 2024

Standard-setting is an essential component of test development, supporting the meaningfulness and appropriate interpretation of test scores. However, in the high-stakes testing environment of aviation, standard-setting studies are underexplored. To address this gap, we document two stages in the standard-setting procedures for the Overseas Flight Training Preparation Test (OFTPT), a diagnostic English test for ab initio pilots, aligned to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s Language Proficiency Rating Scale (LPRS). Performance-level descriptors (PLDs) were empirically generated in Stage 1 in collaboration with six subject matter experts (SMEs). These PLDs made explicit the correspondence between linguistic performance levels within the target language use domain and the ICAO scale. Findings suggest that the ICAO scale is not fine-grained enough to distinguish levels of linguistic readiness among ab initio pilots, nor does it adequately reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities valued by SMEs within this domain. In Stage 2, 12 SMEs were recruited to set standards and were divided into two groups to investigate the replicability of Ebel method standard-setting procedures. Cut scores were determined for the OFTPT reading and listening tests, which were inferentially linked to the LPRS. There were no significant differences in the cut scores arrived at by both groups and reliability was excellent, suggesting that test users can have confidence in the standards set.
Postoperative care of 14 patients with left ventricular assist devices: a case series
Authors: Wan Shenmin , Chen Yihong , Yuan Xia , Lin Ying
Published: February 2024

A left ventricular assist device is a mechanical device that is surgically implanted in the heart to partially or completely replace the function of the heart. Left ventricular assist devices are of vital importance in the treatment of patients with heart failure. There are different recommendations for the postoperative care of patients undergoing left ventricular assist device implantation in different countries, and no uniform standard has been developed. The first implantation of a left ventricular assist device in Eastern China was performed in February 2021; since that date, 14 patients underwent implantation until February 2023. This report describes the postoperative care of these 14 patients with end-stage heart failure who underwent left ventricular assist device placement, all of whom were discharged with a good prognosis.
Study on engineering and aesthetic design in shape determination of wind turbine
Authors: Nagao Toru , Ichijo Atsushi
Published: February 2024

This study discusses the importance of wind turbine design in achieving social acceptance. It examines the factors that determine the shape of wind turbines from two perspectives: engineering and aesthetics. Using the development of New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization wind turbines for remote islands in Okinawa as an example, in collaboration with an aircraft manufacturer. This study explores the differences and issues between two aspects, namely engineering design and aesthetic design, and proposes solutions. The following conclusions were drawn regarding achieving an integrated and aesthetically pleasing shape: (1) Engineering and aesthetic designs employ different methods and criteria for shaping a product. (2) Respecting the methodologies and processes of both disciplines and engaging in early-stage discussions on design concepts and approaches can facilitate smooth development. (3) It is recommended to integrate the design processes of engineering and visual tasks and proceed concurrently under the same operational system.
How migraine and its associated treatment impact on pregnancy outcomes: Umbrella review with updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Phillips Katherine , Clerkin-Oliver Conor , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Crowe Francesca L , Wakerley Benjamin R
Published: February 2024

Background

Migraine is common in reproductive aged women. Understanding the impact of migraine and associated treatments on pregnancy outcomes remains very important. An umbrella review of systematic reviews, with or without meta-analyses, examined the link between migraine and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

We systematically searched Medline, Embase and Cochrane to 27 October 2022. Quality appraisal was carried out using the AMSTAR2 tool. An established framework was used to determine whether included reviews were eligible for update.

Results

Four studies met review criteria. Migraine was reported to be associated with increased odds ratio (OR) of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight and peripartum mental illness (pooled OR = 3.54 (2.24–5.59)). Triptan-exposed women had increased odds of miscarriage compared to women without migraine (pooled OR = 3.54 (2.24–5.59)). In updated meta-analyses, migraine was associated with an increased odds of pre-eclampsia and preterm birth (pooled OR = 2.05 (1.47–2.84) and 1.26 (1.21–1.32) respectively).

Conclusions

Migraine is associated with increased odds of pre-eclampsia, peripartum mental illness and preterm birth. Further investigation of the relationship between migraine and placental abruption, low birth weight and small for gestational age is warranted, as well as the relationship between migraine, triptans and miscarriage risk. Systematic Review Registration: Prospero CRD42022357630
Long-term clinical and ultrasound follow-up after transient perivascular inflammation of the carotid artery (TIPIC) syndrome: a multicenter study
Authors: Obadia Michael , Nasr Nathalie , Volle Geoffroy , Charbonneau Frédérique , Guillaume Jessica , Naggara Olivier , Sadik Jean Claude , Lecler Augustin
Published: February 2024

Background

The present study aimed to describe the clinical and ultrasound (US) long-term follow-up of patients with transient perivascular inflammation of the carotid artery (TIPIC) syndrome and the risk of recurrence.

Methods

We enrolled patients with a definitive diagnosis of TIPIC syndrome who were included in a retrospective multicenter study. These patients were recontacted at least six months after the first TIPIC episode for a clinical and imaging follow-up. Each patient underwent a clinical evaluation through a tailored questionnaire as well as US imaging.

Results

Twenty-eight patients were enrolled with a median follow-up of 58.7 months (interquartile range = 8–121). Nineteen out of the 28 patients (67.8%) had residual pain, eight (28.6%) had experienced a clinical recurrence and 12 (42.9%) had a thickening of the carotid wall on US. No patients had neurological complication or other associated diseases.

Conclusions

Patients with TIPIC syndrome have often residual pain and recurrence in about one quarter of cases but the long-term follow-up is in favor a benign self-limited pathology. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier NCT03804112)
A data-driven polynomial chaos method for uncertainty quantification of a subsonic compressor cascade with stagger angle errors
Authors: Wang Haohao , Gao Limin , Yang Guang , Wu Baohai
Published: February 2024

The probability-based uncertainty quantification (UQ) methods require a large amount of sampled data to construct the probability distribution of uncertain input parameters. However, it is a common situation that only limited and scarce sampled data are available in engineering applications due to expensive tests. In the present paper, the Data-Driven Polynomial Chaos (DDPC) method is adopted, which can propagate input uncertainty in the case of scarce sampled data. The calculation accuracy and convergence of the self-developed DDPC method are validated by a nonlinear test function. Subsequently, the DDPC method is applied to investigate the uncertain impact of stagger angle errors on the aerodynamic performance of a subsonic compressor cascade. A family of manufacturing error data of stagger angles was obtained from the real compressor blades. Based on the limited measurement data, the DDPC method combined with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation is employed to quantify the performance impact of the compressor cascade. The results show that the performance dispersion under off-design conditions is more prominent than that under design conditions. The actual aerodynamic performance deviating from the nominal performance is not a small probability event, and the probability of deviating from the nominal loss coefficient and exit flow angle by more than 1% can reach up to 47.6% and 36.8% under high incidence i = 7°. Detailed analysis shows that stagger angle errors have a significant effect on the flow state near the leading edge, resulting in variations in separation bubble size and boundary layer thickness.
Speech act of flaming: A pragmatic analysis of Twitter trolling in Pakistan
Authors: Rabbani Kiran , Mehmood Muhammad Asim , Areej Areej
Published: February 2024

This study analyzed twitter trolling as a speech act of flaming. Trolling are deliberate disruptive practices of individuals or of particular group to sensationalize, commoditize, or intensify the reaction in online communication. Twitter API account was used to collect the tweets generated in Pakistan in English. The tweets were manually annotated with the help of a framework proposed by the Nitin, et al., 2011. and Lingam in UAM corpus tool. The finding revealed that tweets are trolled to flame by criticizing, name-calling, speculating, defaming, and degrading. The direct or intentional flaming showed derogatory behavior based on assumptions and aimed at inciting degenerative polarized responses. Moreover, this study also implies that there are serious moral and social implications of Twitter trolling.
Estimated mercury vapor exposure from amalgams among American pregnant women
Authors: Geier David A , Geier Mark R
Published: February 2024

This study examined the impact of mercury (Hg) vapor exposure from amalgams among all American pregnant women. Amalgam-Hg vapor exposure among 1,665,890 weighted-pregnant women ( n = 37) was examined in the 2015-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Correlation coefficients between amalgam surfaces and daily micrograms (µg) of urinary Hg excretion and daily µg of Hg vapor exposure from amalgams per kilogram (Kg) bodyweight were calculated. Daily Hg vapor exposure from amalgams was compared to Hg vapor safety limits. About 600,000 pregnant women (∼36%) had at least one amalgam surface. Median daily urinary Hg excretion was ∼2.5-fold higher among pregnant women with amalgams as compared to pregnant women without amalgams. A significant correlation was observed between the number of amalgam surfaces and daily urinary Hg excretion. Among pregnant women with amalgams, it was estimated that the median daily Hg vapor dose from amalgams was 7.66 µg of Hg and 0.073 µg of Hg/Kg bodyweight. Among all pregnant women, ∼28% received daily Hg vapor doses from amalgams above the least restrictive United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety limit and ∼36% received above the most restrictive California (CA) EPA safety limit. Given the potential for fetal toxicological effects from prenatal Hg vapor exposure, special emphasis needs to be placed on reducing/eliminating amalgams in pregnancy/women of reproductive age and future studies should evaluate adverse pregnancy outcomes.