bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined static and dynamic functional connectivity signatures differentiating bipolar depression from major depressive disorder
Authors: Pang Yajing , Zhang Huangbin , Cui Qian , Yang Qi , Lu Fengmei , Chen Heng , He Zongling , Wang Yifeng , Wang Jiaojian , Chen Huafu
Published: May 2020

Objective:

Bipolar disorder in the depressive phase (BDd) may be misdiagnosed as major depressive disorder (MDD), resulting in poor treatment outcomes. To identify biomarkers distinguishing BDd from MDD is of substantial clinical significance. This study aimed to characterize specific alterations in intrinsic functional connectivity (FC) patterns in BDd and MDD by combining whole-brain static and dynamic FC.

Methods:

A total of 40 MDD and 38 BDd patients, and 50 age-, sex-, education-, and handedness-matched healthy controls (HCs) were included in this study. Static and dynamic FC strengths (FCSs) were analyzed using complete time-series correlations and sliding window correlations, respectively. One-way analysis of variance was performed to test group effects. The combined static and dynamic FCSs were then used to distinguish BDd from MDD and to predict clinical symptom severity.

Results:

Compared with HCs, BDd patients showed lower static FCS in the medial orbitofrontal cortex and greater static FCS in the caudate, while MDD patients exhibited greater static FCS in the medial orbitofrontal cortex. BDd patients also demonstrated greater static and dynamic FCSs in the thalamus compared with both MDD patients and HCs, while MDD patients exhibited greater dynamic FCS in the precentral gyrus compared with both BDd patients and HCs. Combined static and dynamic FCSs yielded higher accuracy than either static or dynamic FCS analysis alone, and also predicted anhedonia severity in BDd patients and negative mood severity in MDD patients.

Conclusion:

Altered FC within frontal–striatal–thalamic circuits of BDd patients and within the default mode network/sensorimotor network of MDD patients accurately distinguishes between these disorders. These unique FC patterns may serve as biomarkers for differential diagnosis and provide clues to the pathogenesis of mood disorders.
Path planning of multiple UAVs using MMACO and DE algorithm in dynamic environment
Authors: Ali Zain Anwar , Zhangang Han , Zhengru Di
Published: May 2020

Cooperative path planning of multiple unmanned aerial vehicles is a complex task. The collision avoidance and coordination between multiple unmanned aerial vehicles is a global optimal issue. This research addresses the path planning of multi-colonies with multiple unmanned aerial vehicles in dynamic environment. To observe the model of whole scenario, we combine maximum–minimum ant colony optimization and differential evolution to make metaheuristic optimization algorithm. Our designed algorithm, controls the deficiencies of present classical ant colony optimization and maximum–minimum ant colony optimization, has the contradiction among the excessive information and global optimization. Moreover, in our proposed algorithm, maximum–minimum ant colony optimization is used to lemmatize the pheromone and only best ant of each colony is able to construct the path. However, the path escape by maximum–minimum ant colony optimization and it treated as the object for differential evolution constraints. Now, it is ensuring to find the best global colony, which provides optimal solution for the entire colony. Furthermore, the proposed approach has an ability to increase the robustness while preserving the global convergence speed. Finally, the simulation experiment results are performed under the rough dynamic environment containing some high peaks and mountains.
Controlling of the melting through porous medium and magnetic field
Authors: Gul Taza , Gul Raja S , Noman Waqas , Hussain Fawad , Amiri Iraj S
Published: May 2020

The melting procedure with a direct contact of phase change material is taken into account to consider the porous medium in the presence of a uniform and transverse magnetic field. A permeable rotating disk is taken as a heater in the melting progression of solid phase change material. The three-dimensional melting layer takes place due to the accruing of the temperature difference among the porous disk and solid material. Movement is subject to the effect of pressure loading (counting the weight of solid), direct relation with solid and rotation due to centrifugal force. The removal of melting is controlled due to the joint exertions of the porous media, wall permeability and resistive force generated due to the applied magnetic field. The motion of the melting layer is assumed unsteady and governed the nonlinear similarity equations. Furthermore, magnetic field, porosity, external load and wall suction enhance melting and heat transfer rates at the thin melts film thickness. The melting rate, momentum and thermal boundary layers are estimated under the impact of Stefan number, magnetic field, porosity parameter and unsteadiness parameter. The Eckert number enhances the thermal boundary layer, and consequently the larger amount of melting received. The governing PDEs is highly nonlinear; thus for the solution we use analytical method of HAM and BVPh 2.0 package. The important outputs of the thickness of the thin layer during melting process in the presence and absence of wall suction are mainly focused.
Experimental validation of fractional order internal model controller design on buck and boost converter
Authors: Jain Shivam , Hote Yogesh V , Dehuri Padmalaya , Mittal Deeksha , Siddhartha Vishwanatha
Published: May 2020

In this paper, fractional order internal model control technique is formulated for non-ideal dc–dc buck and boost converter. The fractional order internal model control approach integrates the concept of Commande Robuste d’Ordre Non Entier principle for tuning a fractional order filter with internal model control scheme. The final controller can be expressed as a series combination of proportional integral derivative controller and a fractional order low pass filter. To assess the robustness of the proposed fractional order internal model control scheme, both the servo response and regulatory response of the dc–dc converters are investigated in the presence of disturbances. The efficacy of fractional order internal model control technique is demonstrated via comparison with 2 degrees of freedom internal model control scheme. Furthermore, an experimental validation of fractional order internal model control is conducted on laboratory setup, and a dSPACE 1104 microcontroller is used for hardware implementation. The simulation results and the hardware validation are a testimony to the effectiveness of fractional order internal model control technique.
Psychosocial Determinants to Prenatal Marijuana Use Among a National Sample of Pregnant Females: 2015–2018
Authors: King Keith A. , Vidourek Rebecca A. , Yockey R. Andrew
Published: May 2020

Marijuana use continues to be rampant among pregnant females. This study sought to examine recent marijuana use among a national sample of pregnant females. Aggregated data from the 2015–2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were utilized. Weighted analyses revealed that 5.19% of females used marijuana in the past 30 days. Those at greatest risk for recent use were African American (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.91); identified as gay/lesbian (aOR: 11.9) or bisexual (aOR: 3.37); used cigarettes (aOR: 2.74), alcohol (aOR: 5.10), and/or illicit drugs in the past month (aOR: 4.52); and thought marijuana was easy to access (aOR: 7.23). Women at decreased risk were older, Native Hawaiian, in their second trimester, and thought marijuana was a great risk. We believe our findings can inform harm-reduction efforts and inform prevention messages.
A Neurophenomenological Investigation of Mindfulness Among Collegiate Musicians
Authors: Diaz Frank M. , Silveira Jason M. , Strand Katherine
Published: May 2020

We investigated the efficacy of a phenomenological matrix of mindfulness as a framework for examining expectations, formal meditation experiences, and appraisals of first-year college music students ( N = 18) who participated in a 5-day mindfulness module offered through an introductory course in music education. Participants expressed hopes that meditation would help them manage stress and anxiety, improve their focus and relationships, and support their personal growth and motivation. With respect to lived experiences of formal meditation, we found that without explicit prompting, approximately 86% of coded phrases reflected dimensions of experience that could be mapped within the matrix, suggesting its efficacy for coding. Furthermore, almost all participants attributed mindfulness to improving their general wellness, with dereification, breathing, and nonaversive affect frequently mentioned as key factors leading to these improvements. Additionally, consistent with the neurophenomenological aims of the matrix, we list cognitive outcomes and neurophysiological mechanisms potentially attributable to the nature of selected appraisal statements by participants.
School Surveillance in Context: High School Students’ Perspectives on CCTV, Privacy, and Security
Authors: Birnhack Michael , Perry-Hazan Lotem
Published: May 2020

This study examines high school students’ perceptions of school closed-circuit television systems (CCTVs). It draws on interviews conducted with 83 adolescents recruited from 10th- to 12th-grade classes at 39 Israeli schools. The findings indicate that students’ perceptions of CCTVs are embedded in their overall opinions about their school, particularly concerning relationships and trust between students and educators. The various metaphors that students used to describe their relational position regarding school CCTVs highlight that surveillance has become part of the organizational–educational experience. The findings also show that students’ scrutiny of school CCTVs reflects a conflict between privacy and security concerns. Students resolve this conflict by resorting to various balances, which echo general constitutional principles but were also anchored in the students’ personal schooling experiences. While building on Nissenbaum’s framework of contextual integrity for assessing privacy violations, we challenge its assumption of a uniform set of informational norms within a given context.
Future Expectations of Adolescents: The Role of Mentoring, Family Engagement, and Sense of Belonging
Authors: Sulimani-Aidan Yafit , Schwartz-Tayri Talia , Melkman Eran
Published: May 2020

This study investigates the association between mentoring and future expectations of youth in residential placements in Israel, and how family engagement during care and sense of belonging mediate this relationship. The participants included 213 adolescents (16–19 years old). Structural equation modeling revealed that mentoring contributed to the youths’ future expectations indirectly via family engagement in care, sense of belonging, and the chain mediating effect of family engagement and sense of belonging. The discussion highlights the importance of considering youths’ connections with chosen mentors and families when training foster and residential care workers as well as when implementing individual treatment plans and strategies to strengthen the sense of belonging of youth in care.
Corporate-Led Environmental Governance: A Theoretical Model
Authors: Ba Yuhao
Published: May 2020

The growing reliance on non-state environmental governance (EG) coupled with the current U.S. political environment portends an increasing salience of governing efforts from non-state actors. Among non-state actors, corporations play a substantial role given their market and societal power, their corresponding social responsibilities, and their organizational and institutional adaptability in developing and performing EG solutions. This article proposes a corporate-led environmental governance (CLEG) model. An important distinction between previous iterations of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate governance and the CLEG model proposed here is the active assertion of corporate environmental leadership as state leadership is subject to retrenchment in the United States.
SBTM: A joint sentiment and behaviour topic model for online course discussion forums
Authors: Peng Xian , Xu Qinmei , Gan Wenbin
Published: May 2020

Large quantities of textual posts are increasingly generated in course discussion forums, and the accumulation of these data greatly increases the cognitive loads on online participants. It is imperative for them to automatically identify the potential semantic information derived from these textual discourse interactions. Moreover, existing topic models can discover the latent topics or sentimental polarities from textual data, but these models typically ignore the interactive ways of discussing topics, thus making it difficult to further construct topics’ semantic space from the perspective of document generation. To solve this issue, we proposed a joint sentiment and behaviour topic model called SBTM, which was an unsupervised approach for automatic analysis of learners’ discussed posts. The results demonstrated that SBTM was quantitatively effective on both model generalisation and topic exploration, and rich topic content was qualitatively characterised. Furthermore, the model can be potentially employed in some practical applications, such as information summarisation and behaviour-oriented personalised recommendation.
Incidental intraoperative finding of gallbladder duplication in a patient with a choledochal cyst
Authors: Zhuang Hongkai , Ma Zuyi , Yin Zi , Hou Baohua , Zhang Chuanzhao
Published: May 2020

Here, we report a case of coexistence of a duplicate gallbladder and choledochal cyst, which was overlooked preoperatively and confirmed via intraoperative inspection and pathological examination. We concluded that a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose a double gallbladder, and special attention should be paid to preoperative radiological imaging when treating patients with choledochal cysts because these patients present a higher incidence of biliary anomalies.
Effects of rosuvastatin and zoledronic acid in combination on the recovery of senile osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture following percutaneous vertebroplasty
Authors: Li Hong , Wang Yu , Wang Rui , Yue Lei , Chen Shunlun , Li Chunde
Published: May 2020

Objectives

This study analyzed the effects of rosuvastatin and zoledronic acid in combination on patient recovery following percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) that was performed to treat senile osteoporotic vertebral compression.

Methods

Senile patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (n = 120) were included in this retrospective study, and they were classified into two groups. Those in the control group (n = 60) were treated with PVP + caltrate and those in the observation group (n = 60) received this treatment with combined zoledronic acid and rosuvastatin. Between-group comparisons were made at both pre- and post-treatment regarding bone density, type I procollagen peptide (CTX) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) levels, visual analog scale (VAS) score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, and adjacent centrum refracture.

Results

Bone density was higher and BAP and CTX levels as well as ODI and VAS scores were lower at post-treatment in the observation group compared with the control group. The refracture rate in the observation group was lower compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Treatment with a combination of rosuvastatin and zoledronic acid following PVP can improve the condition of senile osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture and patient’s functional status, and it can also alleviate pain.
Comparison of clinical and oncologic effectiveness between flexible 3-dimensional and bidimensional video-thoracoscopic surgery for lung cancer
Authors: Pardolesi Alessandro , Rolli Luigi , Scanagatta Paolo , Duranti Leonardo , Tavecchio Luca , Pastorino Ugo
Published: May 2020

Background:

Three-dimensional (3D) vision systems are available for video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). It is unclear whether 3D-VATS is superior to bidimensional (2D) VATS systems.

Methods:

We analyzed patients who received 3D-VATS ( n = 171) or 2D-VATS ( n = 228) lobectomy in a single institutional retrospective comparative study of 399 patients with resectable lung cancer conducted from June 2012 to December 2017. The operative and perioperative data were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Operative time, length of hospital stay, number of dissected lymph nodes, and rate of postoperative complications were similar in both groups. In the 3D group, there was no conversion to thoracotomy for intraoperative major vascular injuries, while conversion to an open procedure for uncontrolled bleeding was recorded in 4 (1.7%) patients in the 2D group. Reoperation for hemostasis and/or aerostasis occurred in 6 (2.6%) patients of the 2D group ( p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Nonrandomized comparison of different surgical approaches is challenging. In our experience, 3D-VATS was safe and effective and offered excellent operative perception and sensitivity, enabling safer dissection of hilar structures. The 3D-VATS system helped skilled surgeons beyond the boundaries of more oncologically aggressive surgery.
Real-world efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab in patients with non-small cell lung cancer: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Cavaille François , Peretti Mathieu , Garcia Marie Eve , Giorgi Roch , Ausias Nathalie , Vanelle Patrice , Barlesi Fabrice , Montana Marc
Published: May 2020

Background:

Pembrolizumab, a humanized immunoglobulin monoclonal antibody directed against the programmed cell death 1 receptor, demonstrated robust efficacy and a manageable safety profile across multiple tumor types in clinical trials.

Aim:

To investigate the efficacy and safety of first-line pembrolizumab for patients with non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) in clinical practice.

Methods:

In this observational monocentric retrospective study, 38 patients with PD-L1 >50% were enrolled between November 2017 and November 2018.

Results:

The global median overall survival was 11.08 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.98–not reached) and the global median progression-free survival was 6 months (95% CI, 3–not reached). In the univariate analysis, clinical performance status score and the development of immune-related adverse events were the only 2 clinical factors significantly correlated with overall survival.

Conclusion:

The results of the present study suggest that pembrolizumab seems less effective in the real-life population than in the pivotal clinical trials in patients with NSCLC but remains an effective treatment option for patients with NSCLC. Longer follow-up is needed.
Self-Control, External Environment, and Delinquency: A Test of Self-Control Theory in Rural China
Authors: Jiang Xin , Chen Xiaojin , Zhuo Yue
Published: May 2020

Although self-control consistently emerges as one of the most robust correlates of delinquent behavior, limited empirical attempts have been made to explore the contextual variability of the relationship between self-control and delinquency outside of Western societies. Using data collected from 587 seventh- to ninth-grade students across 10 middle schools in a rural county of Southeast China, we examine self-control’s efficacy in explaining juvenile delinquency in the presence of external environmental factors, and investigate relative strength of self-control and contextual factors in predicting delinquent behaviors. Our results confirm that self-control is an important predictor of delinquent behavior in a non-Western cultural context. However, certain environmental factors rooted in family, school, and peer groups are also shown to be the predictors of delinquent behavior where strength seems to exceed that of self-control. These findings shed more nuanced insights on the nexus between self-control, external situations, and delinquency, and in a broader sense, contribute to the elaboration of a more comprehensive understanding of self-control theory.
Return to Sport Following High Tibial Osteotomy With Concomitant Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation
Authors: Liu Joseph N. , Agarwalla Avinesh , Christian David R. , Garcia Grant H. , Redondo Michael L. , Yanke Adam B. , Cole Brian J.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Young patients with symptomatic chondral defects in the medial compartment with varus malalignment may undergo opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (HTO) with concomitant osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) (HTO + OCA). Although patients have demonstrated favorable outcomes after HTO + OCA, limited information is available regarding return to sporting activities after this procedure.

Purpose:

To evaluate (1) the timeline to return to sports (RTS), (2) patient satisfaction, and (3) reasons for discontinuing sporting activity after HTO + OCA, and to identify predictive factors of RTS.

Study Design:

Case series; level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Consecutive patients who underwent HTO + OCA for varus deformity and medial femoral condyle focal chondral defects with a minimum 2-year follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patients completed a subjective sports questionnaire, satisfaction questionnaire, visual analog scale for pain, and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients with a mean age of 36.97 ± 7.52 years were included at mean follow-up of 6.63 ± 4.06 years. Fourteen patients (50.0%) required reoperation during the follow-up period, with 3 (10.7%) undergoing knee arthroplasty. Twenty-four patients participated in sports within 3 years before surgery, with 19 patients (79.2%) able to return to at least 1 sport at a mean 11.41 ± 6.42 months postoperatively. However, only 41.7% (n = 10) were able to return to their preoperative level. The most common reasons for sports discontinuation (n = 20; 83.3%) were a desire to prevent further damage to the knee (70.0%), persistent pain (55.0%), persistent swelling (30.0%), and fear (25.0%).

Conclusion:

In young, active patients with varus deformity and focal medial femoral condyle chondral defects, HTO + OCA enabled 79.2% of patients to RTS by 11.41 ± 6.42 months postoperatively. However, only 41.7% of patients were able to return to their preinjury level or better. It is imperative that patients be appropriately educated to manage postoperative expectations regarding sports participation after HTO + OCA.
Denial and oncological pathology: Case report of a massive testicular cancer
Authors: Pizzuto G , Barale M , Sedigh O , Frea B
Published: May 2020

Literature:

The cancer of testicles represents 1% of male neoplasms and 5% of urological malignant neoplasm. Its incidence has been growing in Western societies. Cancer of testicles usually presents as an increase of consistence in one testicles and absence of pain, as a casual ultrasound scan finding, or it could be highlighted by a scrotal injury. The surgical treatment is either radical orchiectomy or radical orchiectomy plus retroperitoneal lymph node dissection.

Case presentation:

The case presented concerns a 48-year-old male with a history of left testicular trauma and subsequent hypotrophy. Over the next 4 years, the patient developed a testicle size increase up to 15 cm in diameter. At diagnosis, he had retroperitoneal lymphadenopathy. The patient was, after surgery, referred to the oncology department.

Conclusion:

The awareness of the male population respect to testicular cancer and its screening methods (e.g. self-examination) is essential to make the diagnosis at an early stage. It is also essential to psychologically support patients undergoing surgical and/or pharmacological therapy due to risk of determining anxiety or depression compared to the whole population.
The neurosociology of Auguste Comte
Authors: McVeigh Ryan
Published: May 2020

This article explores the role of phrenology in the work of Auguste Comte. I begin by reviewing the historical and contemporary significance of this doctrine to show the direct lineage that exists between phrenology and what we now call cognitive neuroscience. I then demonstrate the impact of phrenology on Comte’s sociological theory and make the claim that his paradigm exemplifies what TenHouten called ‘neurosociology.’ Following this, I show how Comte’s social epistemology rejected biological reductionism and considered neurophysiology a subfield of sociology. This results in a somewhat startling assertion: Comte saw sociology as a cognitive science. After outlining Comte’s original vision for sociology as a discipline, I place Comte’s system in critical contact with 21st century neuroscience and suggest fruitful ways to move the neurosociology paradigm forward. In this I demonstrate that Comte’s vision for sociology is worth pursuing today, even while the specifics of his doctrine are not.
Devine qui s’invite aux élections cette année ! Les minorités visibles et leur représentation politique en Ontario et en Colombie-Britannique (Canada)
Authors: Minani Passy Pascasie , Gueye Abdoulaye
Published: May 2020

This article deals with the level of political representation of ethnoracial minority groups in the legislative assemblies of Ontario and British Columbia. It aims at evaluating several theories on the level of political representation of ethnoracial minorities on the one hand, and on the difference between the levels of political representation of these groups on the other hand. One of its main inputs is theoretical. First, it introduces a complexification of the residential concentration theory and, above all of the premise of ethnic affinity by suggesting that a distinction should be made between two concepts: on the one hand centripetal ethnic affinity and, on the other hand, transversal ethnic affinity. The first concept deals with emotional tendencies – expressed by concrete acts – of members of an ethnic group to answer favorably to the incitement of individuals (As) who have the same ethnic identity than them (the As), against individuals of a different ethnicity (the Bs). Moreover, the concept of transversal ethnic affinity is of foremost importance here, as we talk about the political dynamism of pluriethnic societies where the distinction between majority and minority is far from enlightening, as each of these entities is composite, including indeed several ethnic groups whose interests converge as much as they differ according to the situations. This concept also draws its usefulness from the opportunity it offers to measure the meaning within the political space of the dichotomy between ‘white majority group’ and ‘racialized minority.’ On the methodological side, this article proceeds from the complete counting of legislative elections’ results that took place in 2018 in Ontario and 2017 in British Columbia, according to two main criteria: a) the ethnoracial identification of elected candidates, and b) the ethnic distribution of the population living in the electoral districts that elected a member of an ethnoracial minority.
Educational Accountability and State ESSA Plans
Authors: Portz John , Beauchamp Nicholas
Published: May 2020

This paper examines different state approaches to educational accountability in response to the Every Student Succeeds Act. Cluster analysis reveals three groups of states with similar indicator weights and rating systems, and principal component analysis identifies two dimensions underlying these clusters. We find that state-level demographics are correlated with the types of assessment policies adopted by states: policy liberalism is associated with putting greater weight on school quality and student success, while economic variables are associated with traditional performance measures, such as graduation rates and testing. These clusters reveal different approaches to measuring accountability and prioritizing different kinds of information, which can in turn influence the nature of education politics.
Association of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol With Cognitive Function: Findings From the PROspective Study of Pravastatin in the Elderly at Risk
Authors: Grasset Leslie , Smit Roelof A. J. , Caunca Michelle R. , Elfassy Tali , Odden Michelle C. , van der Grond Jeroen , van Buchem Mark A. , Stott David J. , Sattar Naveed , Trompet Stella , Jukema J. Wouter , Zeki Al Hazzouri Adina
Published: May 2020

Objective: We aimed to examine whether variability in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) over time was associated with cognitive function. Method: We conducted a post hoc analysis of the PROspective Study of Pravastatin in the Elderly at Risk (PROSPER) trial. Our sample included 4,428 participants with at least two repeated HDL-c measures between Months 3 and 24 postbaseline and with cognitive assessments at Month 30. HDL-c variability was defined as the intraindividual standard deviation over each person’s repeated measurements. Results: Higher HDL-c variability was associated with worse performance on the Letter-Digit Coding Test (β [95% confidence interval] [CI] = −4.39 [−7.36, −1.43], p = .004), immediate recall on the 15-Picture Learning Test (β [95% CI] = −0.98 [−1.86, −0.11], p = .027), and delayed recall on the 15-Picture Learning Test (β [95% CI] = −1.90 [−3.14, −0.67], p = .002). The associations did not vary by treatment group. Discussion: Our findings suggest that variability in HDL-c may be associated with poor cognitive function among older adults.
A case study on interface pressure pattern of two garment orthoses on a child with cerebral palsy
Authors: Shaari Ida Hasni , Abu Osman Noor Azuan , Shasmin Hanie Nadia
Published: May 2020

Many studies have shown that medical compression products produce different levels of interface pressure during the usage of the products. However, limited studies have explored the pattern of interface pressure exerted by orthotic garments. This case study aimed to investigate the pattern of interface pressure exerted by two types of orthotic garments on a child with cerebral palsy. A 13-year-old child diagnosed with ataxic spastic diplegia cerebral palsy has difficulty to perform sit-to-stand motion even with a walking frame due to his truncal ataxia. A TheraTogsTM orthosis and a Dynamic Lycra® Fabric Orthosis (DLFO) were prepared for the child. The child’s sit-to-stand ability without and with the usage of orthoses was recorded using five sit-to-stand tests. The garments’ interface pressure was measured using F-scan (9811E) and F-scan 6.5.1 version software. The pressure was recorded when the child was in sitting position and performing sit-to-stand-to-sit motion. Overall, the child completed the five sit-to-stand test duration within 2.53 ± 0.04 s and 2.51 ± 0.09 s with the usage of TheraTogsTM orthosis and DLFO, respectively. Higher pressure was exerted by Dynamic Lycra Fabric Orthosis (axillary = 122 mmHg) in contrast to TheraTogsTM orthosis (77 mmHg) when the child was in a sitting position. Lower pressure was exerted by DLFO (7 mmHg), over xiphoid level and for TheraTogsTM orthosis is 1.2 mmHg over axillary level when the child was performing sit-to-stand motion. The largest range of pressure was exerted by TheraTogsTM orthosis with a minimum pressure of 5 mmHg and a maximum pressure of 155 mmHg during sit-to-stand motion. Overall, the DLFO exerted higher mean interface pressure on the child in comparison to TheraTogsTM orthosis when the child’s body was in a sitting position wearing both upper garment and pants. Both TheraTogsTM orthosis and DLFO presented a different range of interface pressure over different body segments and activities.
Who’s afraid of Virginia Woolf? Readers’ responses to experimental techniques of speech, thought and consciousness presentation in Woolf’s To the Lighthouse and Mrs Dalloway
Authors: Grisot Giulia , Conklin Kathy , Sotirova Violeta
Published: May 2020

Woolf’s work has been the object of several studies concerned with her experimental use of techniques of speech, thought and consciousness presentation. These investigated the way in which different perspectives coexist and alternate in her writing, suggesting that the use of such techniques often results in ambiguous perspective shifts. However, there is hardly any empirical evidence as to whether readers experience difficulty while reading her narratives as a result of these narrative techniques. This article examines empirically readers’ responses to extracts from Woolf’s two major novels – To the Lighthouse and Mrs Dalloway – to provide evidence for whether Woolf’s techniques for the presentation of characters’ voices, thoughts and perspectives represent a challenge for readers. To achieve this, a mixed-methods approach that combines a stylistic analysis with a detailed questionnaire has been employed. Selected extracts that were hypothesised to be complex due to the presence of free indirect style and/or interior monologue were modified by substituting these with less ambiguous modes of consciousness presentation, such as direct speech or direct thought. Readers’ responses to the modified and unmodified versions of the same extracts were compared: results show that the presence of free indirect style and/or interior monologue increases the number of perspectives identified by readers, suggesting that this technique increases the texts’ difficulty, laying a more solid ground for future investigations.
Supporting the Decision Making of Children With Cancer: A Meta-synthesis
Authors: Yamaji Noyuri , Suto Maiko , Takemoto Yo , Suzuki Daichi , Lopes Katharina da Silva , Ota Erika
Published: May 2020

Background: Recently, awareness of children’s decision making has increased in an effort to enhance palliative care. However, the conceptual framework for decision making among children with cancer remains unclear. Aims: We clarified the decision-making process of children with cancer regarding their care, treatment, and support from family and health care professionals, and identified their needs and preferences. Design: We used metaethnography to conduct a metasynthesis of relevant studies. Data sources: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and CINAHL. This report was prepared in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Results: Of the 7,237 retrieved studies, 27 met our inclusion criteria. Four themes emerged that reflected the decision-making process of children with cancer: (a) facing changes brought about by a health threat, (b) preparing for action, (c) asserting one’s choice, and (d) internal and external influences. Conclusion: Children with cancer initially undergo a decision-making process. Respecting children’s preferences, values, and emotions may help build trusting relationships and promote their decision-making capability. Future research should focus on children’s emotions, cognition, development, and interactions with parents and health care professionals.
Isolated Intraductal Carcinoma of the Prostate in Prostatectomy Specimens: Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Grypari Ioanna Maria , Logotheti Souzana , Lazaris Andreas C. , Kallidonis Panagiotis , Fokaefs Eleutherios , Melachrinou Maria , Zolota Vasiliki , Tzelepi Vasiliki
Published: May 2020

Intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDCp) is a distinct neoplastic entity, and although recognized for some time, it was included for the first time in the histologic classification of prostate cancer in the 2016 publication of World Health Organization. IDCp represents an intraductal or intra-acinar proliferation of malignant cells, with preservation of the basal cell layer. Even though IDCp is usually accompanied by a high-grade invasive component, low-grade invasive carcinoma can rarely be seen adjacent to the lesion. Even rarer is the incidence of isolated IDCp in needle biopsies, while a few such cases have been reported in prostatectomy specimens. We report 2 cases with isolated IDCp without any invasive component. A review of the literature is performed including the diagnostic challenges of IDCp and its morphologic mimics, immunohistochemical markers, molecular aspects, and prognostic implications. Even though it is not yet clear whether IDCp represents an intraductal spread of invasive cancer or a precursor of invasive carcinoma, the existence of isolated IDCp reinforces the idea that, at least in some of the cases, IDCp is a precancerous lesion. Further molecular studies need to be performed in order to clarify its pathogenesis.
Immunostaining With Immunoglobulin G Subclass Antibody Cocktail for Diagnosis of Type 1 Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Authors: Nakata Rie , Uehara Takeshi , Iwaya Mai , Asaka Shiho , Kobayashi Shota , Sugano Mitsutoshi , Higuchi Kayoko , Kusama Yukiko , Nakazawa Koh , Nakaguro Masato , Kobayashi Mikiko , Tateishi Ayako , Makino Mutsuki , Kawaguchi Kenji , Maejima Toshitaka , Ishii Keiko , Sano Kenji , Shimojo Hisashi , Hori Atsushi , Otsuki Toshiaki , Hamano Hideaki , Kawa Shigeyuki , Ota Hiroyoshi
Published: May 2020

Background.

Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related diseases (RDs) are systemic diseases in which serum IgG4 levels are frequently elevated. They can cause diffuse or focal tumor formation, organ swelling, and tissue thickening in organs infiltrated by IgG4 + plasma cells. The diagnostic criteria for IgG4-RDs include an IgG4/IgG ratio >40%, but counting IgG+ cells can be difficult because of the weakness of IgG staining density. We hypothesized that an antibody cocktail of mixed IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 (AC-IgG) might give immunohistochemistry results comparable with those of IgG in IgG4-RD.

Methods.

We compared AC-IgG reactivity with IgG expression in type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), a representative IgG4-RD. We compared immunohistochemistry results using AC-IgG and IgG-only in 10 cases of AIP. The coefficient of variation (Cv) was used to analyze differences between AC-IgG and IgG findings in AIP by 13 board-certified pathologists.

Results.

Although mean values for IgG+ cells did not significantly differ between AC-IgG (34.3; range = 27.4-37.1) and IgG (30.0; range = 23.0-45.6; P = .6254), Cv was lower for AC-IgG (33.4%) than for IgG (51.4%; regression equation; y[IgG] = 0.988 x + 0.982; correlation coefficient = 0.907). The data showed that the results of both methods were largely consistent.

Conclusion.

AC-IgG could replace IgG to count IgG+ cells because of its lower Cv.
Radiographic Assessment of Relative First Metatarsal Length Following Modified Lapidus Procedure
Authors: Greeff Wessel , Strydom Andrew , Saragas Nikiforos Pandelis , Ferrao Paulo Norberto Faria
Published: May 2020

Background:

The modified Lapidus is a surgical procedure for managing moderate to severe hallux valgus, especially in the presence of first tarsometatarsal joint arthritis or hypermobility. It has good long-term results but reportedly can lead to transfer metatarsalgia due to inherent shortening of the first metatarsal.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of all adult patients who underwent a modified Lapidus procedure during a 3-year period was performed. Clinical notes were evaluated to look for nonunion or any other complications related to the surgery. Pre- and postoperative standard weightbearing radiographs were used to establish the relative metatarsal length (RML), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle (HVA), and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMMA). A total of 69 modified Lapidus procedures were identified, with 32 included in the study.

Results:

The mean pre- and postoperative RMLs were −0.8 and −4.9 mm, respectively. The average RML shortening due to the procedure was −4.1 ( P < .0001). The mean pre- and postoperative IMAs were 15 and 5 degrees, respectively ( P < .0001). The mean pre- and postoperative HVAs were 33 and 9 degrees, respectively ( P < .0001). One patient reported transfer metatarsalgia, which was attributed to elevation of the first metatarsal.

Conclusion:

We found a statistically significant degree of shortening of the relative length of the first metatarsal without any clinically significant metatarsalgia. The low rate of transfer metatarsalgia following the modified Lapidus procedure could be attributed to the sagittal plane correction and stability obtained by performing a first tarsometatarsal fusion.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Post Qualitative Research: An Idea for Which the Time Has Come
Authors: Benozzo Angelo
Published: May 2020

Post qualitative research is an idea for which the time has come. How long will this last? These pages represent a tentative exploration of the (im)possibilities of post qualitative research.

Tentative biography

Tentative contours

(Dis)Order?

(Im)possibilities?
Can We Bring Culture into the Large-Scale Study of Gentrification? Assessing the Possibilities Using Geodemographic Marketing Data
Authors: Somashekhar Mahesh
Published: May 2020

Despite advances in quantitative methodology, many quantitative gentrification scholars rely on under-theorized and speculative presumptions about who gentrifiers are. This study uses Claritas Potential Rating Index for Zip Marketers (PRIZM), a geodemographic marketing data source on the lifestyles and consumer habits of U.S. households, to augment a Census-based analysis of Chicago neighborhoods that gentrified from 2000 to 2017. PRIZM data reveal that the households moving into gentrified neighborhoods represent a range of lifestyles, calling into question the attribution of “gentrifier” to any particular social group or demographic category. In some cases, despite having the same social class positions, gentrifiers pursue varying interests, suggesting they have different effects on neighborhoods. Once lifestyle is accounted for, many assumptions about gentrifiers on which quantitative studies are built become inadequate. The article’s conclusion not only proposes ways in which scholars can integrate geodemographic marketing data into future gentrification research, but it also outlines reasons to be cautious when using the data.
Clinicopathologic and pathologic characteristics of feline proteinuric kidney disease
Authors: Rayhel Laura H , Quimby Jessica M , Cianciolo Rachel E , Cléroux Andréanne , McLeland Shannon M , Franken Toni
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the causes, clinicopathologic features and outcomes of feline protein-losing nephropathy (proteinuria secondary to glomerular disease [PLN]).

Methods

Kidney biopsy/necropsy samples from proteinuric cats submitted to the International Veterinary Renal Pathology Service were retrospectively reviewed. Diagnoses based on histopathology were categorized by primary disease compartment. Clinicopathologic variables at diagnosis, development of hypoalbuminemia, anemia, hypertension, azotemia and effusion/edema, and survival were compared between cats with immune-complex glomerulonephritis (ICGN) and other causes of PLN.

Results

Fifty-eight percent (n = 31/53) of proteinuric cats had ICGN and 74% (n = 31/42) of cats with PLN had ICGN. Cats with glomerular diseases other than ICGN had a higher median urine protein:creatinine ratio than ICGN cats (14.5 vs 6.5; P <0.001). Onset of PLN occurred at a young age; median age at diagnosis was 3.5 years in ICGN cats vs 1.3 years in cats with other glomerular diseases ( P = 0.026). Development of complications such as hypoalbuminemia, anemia, hypertension, azotemia and effusion/edema were common, regardless of the cause of PLN, and were not different between ICGN and cats with other glomerular diseases. Male cats were over-represented in the ICGN group ( P = 0.003). Median survival time (MST) for all cats with PLN was 94 days (range 3–1848 days). Survival was not different between cats with ICGN and cats with other glomerular diseases. MST in ICGN cats that developed effusion was shorter (94 days) than cats that did not (700 days; P = 0.035). MST in IGCN cats that received immunosuppressive medications was longer (244 days) than cats that did not (17 days, P = 0.039).

Conclusions and relevance

Taken together, these data suggest that clinical suspicion for glomerular proteinuria should increase in young, male cats with higher degrees of proteinuria, and immune-mediated disease is common. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of immunosuppression on morbidity and mortality in cats with ICGN.
Impact of the New McGill Undergraduate Medical Curriculum on Medical Students' Diagnostic Accuracy of Common Dermatoses Encountered in Primary Care
Authors: Cheung Wai Kiu Larry , Pehr Kevin
Published: May 2020

Background

The McGill Faculty of Medicine implemented a new undergraduate medical curriculum in 2013 with additional preclinical lectures in dermatology. At the time of writing, no Canadian prospective study has been published on undergraduate dermatology training in the context of a complete curricular renewal.

Objectives

Our study was designed to determine the impact of increasing preclinical teaching in dermatology on medical students’ diagnostic accuracy and learning retention of common dermatoses encountered in primary care.

Methods

A standardized questionnaire was administered to the Classes of 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 in 6 versions for a total of 6 times over their 4 years of training. Each version featured 10 photographs of common dermatoses encountered in primary care. Students were invited to participate anonymously and on a voluntary basis.

Results

A small absolute, but statistically significant difference, of 3% was detected in the fourth and final year of training between the old curriculum (average score = 70%, standard deviation = 15%) and the new curriculum (average score = 73%, standard deviation = 15%), P = .03. Furthermore, the Class of 2018’s performance improved year by year over the entire 4 years of the new curriculum.

Conclusions

Additional preclinical lectures in dermatology do improve medical students’ diagnostic accuracy of common dermatoses encountered in primary care. Furthermore, they do retain their learning throughout the preclinical and clerkship years.
Action logs as mediational means for teacher development
Authors: Hooper Daniel
Published: May 2020

In this narrative article, I document my implementation of action logs as a tool for reflective practice and teacher development as I transitioned from working in a small eikaiwa (English conversation) school to working in a private international university. After providing a brief description of my contextual background and how I came to start action logging, I give examples of student feedback I received and their relevance to my reflective teaching. Finally, I explain the varied ways in which I feel using action logs aided me in improving the efficacy of my classroom practice and influenced my evolving teacher identity during a stressful transition between two markedly different professional worlds.