bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Mechanism of Trimebutine Maleate Combined with Lactulose in the Treatment of Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Elderly
Authors: Zhou Yeping , Yang Dujuan , Gu Wenjun
Published: November 2022

Objective. Study on the efficacy and mechanism of trimebutine maleate combined with lactulose in the treatment of constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-C) in the elderly. Methods. From March 2019 to March 2021, 102 elderly patients with IBS-C were randomly divided into the observation group (51 cases) and the control group (51 cases). The observation group was treated with trimebutine maleate combined with lactulose, while the control group was treated with lactulose. Comparison of the clinical effects of the two groups. Comparison of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) levels, neuropeptide Y (NPY) levels, and quality of life scores before and after treatment between the two groups. Documentation of adverse reactions during treatment. Results. The improvement of clinical symptoms in the observation group was significantly better than that in the control group, and the difference is statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). The level of VIP after treatment in the observation group was significantly lower than that in the control group and before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). The level of NPY after treatment in the observation group was significantly higher than that in the control group and before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). The scores of dietary restrictions and health worries in the control group after treatment were significantly higher than those before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). The scores of anxious, behavioral conflict, dietary restrictions, health worries, social response, and family relationship in the observation group after treatment were significantly higher than those in the control group and before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). There were no serious adverse effects in either group during the treatment period, with some patients experiencing dizziness and dry mouth, which improved after discontinuation of the drug, without special intervention. Conclusion. Trimebutine maleate combined with lactulose can improve clinical symptoms and quality of life in elderly patients with IBS-C, and its mechanism of action may be related to the regulation of the body’s VIP and NPY levels.
PUFDCA: A Zero-Trust-Based IoT Device Continuous Authentication Protocol
Authors: Alshomrani Shrooq , Li Shancang
Published: November 2022

It is very challenging to secure the Internet of Things (IoT) systems, which demands an end-to-end approach from the edge devices to cloud or hybrid service. The exponential growth besides the simple and low-cost nature of IoT devices has made IoT system an attractive target for several types of security attacks such as impersonation, spoofing, and DDoD attacks. This work is aimed at enhancing the IoT security using a zero-trust (ZT) approach by proposing a physical unclonable function-based device continuous authentication (PUFDCA). The PUFDCA provides two kinds of authentications to verify the identity of the IoT device, static authentication to verify the identity before starting the session using PUF technology and continuous authentication to verify the location of the device during the session to ensure the authenticated device is not changed. The security analysis and verification tool results demonstrate that the proposed protocol is secure against a range of common IoT attacks. In addition, PUFDCA is considered lightweight and consumes low energy and storage.
A Mesoscopic Model for Predicting the Chloride Diffusivity’ Representative Volume Element in Concrete as a Random Composite
Authors: Xie JianXiang , Lin Gang , Wu Junming
Published: November 2022

Chloride diffusivity is the most crucial factor for evaluating durability and predicting service life of concrete structures exposed to chloride environment. In the present paper, concrete is considered as a random heterogeneous composite of three phases: the aggregates, the matrix, and the interfacial transition zones (ITZ) between them. A mesoscopic model has been established based on the random aggregate model and a numerical model for calculating the chloride diffusivity has been proposed. The influences of aggregate size and the properties of the interfacial transition zones on chloride diffusivity of concrete are also discussed. The chloride diffusivity is size dependent because aggregates are randomly distributed in concrete. The chloride diffusivity under different sizes is analyzed by numerous numerical simulations, and the representative volume element (RVE) of chloride penetration into concrete is researched by the statistical method.
Inhibition of Angiogenesis by MiR-524-5p through Suppression of AKT and ERK Activation by Targeting CXCR7 in Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Xiang , Li Zitao , Li Caijuan , Fang Yi , Zhang Gaosen , Yan Yudie , Zhao Xiaodi , Song Xiaole , Zhang Zhen
Published: November 2022

Increasing evidence shows that alterations in microRNA (miRNA) expression are involved in the occurrence and development of various malignant tumors, including colon cancer. MiRNA-524-5p has been reported to have anticancer activity in colon cancer. This study explored the influence of the miRNA-524-5p/CXCR7 axis on angiogenesis using colon cancer cells and further studied the mechanisms involved. We found that changing the expression of miRNA-524-5p can affect colonic proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, angiogenesis induced by miRNA-524-5p overexpression was reversed by overexpression of CXCR7 in HT-29 cells, while the opposite was observed in Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, miRNA-524-5p inhibited the activation of AKT and ERK signaling by targeting CXCR7. Overall, our results indicated that the miRNA-524-5p/CXCR7 axis regulated angiogenesis in colon cancer cells through the AKT and ERK pathways.
Single‐Cell Gene Expression Analysis in Patients with Medullary Sponge Kidney and a Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Ming , Xu Da-Ming , Lin Shu-Bin , Yang Zheng-Liang , Xu Teng-Yu , Yang Jin-Huan , Yin Jun
Published: November 2022

Objective. To establish better diagnosis thinking and provide advanced understanding of MSK, the CT imaging features, clinical characteristics, and the expression of suspected genes in the kidney spatiotemporal immune zonation and fetal renal development were investigated. Methods. 17 patients with MSK hospitalized in our hospital were selected as our research subjects. Human Phenotype Ontology, MalaCards: The Human Disease Database, GeneCards: The Human Gene Database, Human Protein Atlas, and Single Cell Expression Atlas were used to analyze this disease. Results. In our 17 patients, the incidence of MSK tended to be the same in male and female, and the onset age of MSK was probably 31‐50 years old. The top one related disease of MSK was nephrocalcinosis and the most frequent phenotype related to MSK was nephrolithiasis. In addition, the expression of HNF1B, CLCN5, GDNF, ATP6V0A4, ATP6V1B1, LAMA2, RET, ACAN, and ABCC8 has been implicated in both human kidney immune zonation and fetal kidney development. Conclusions. HNF1B, CLCN5, GDNF, ATP6V0A4, ATP6V1B1, LAMA2, RET, ACAN, and ABCC8 could be independent indicators for the diagnosis and preventive intervention of MSK patients, and abnormal kidney development due to mutations in key genes was the underlying cause of MSK.
Nonsingular Global Fast Terminal Sliding Mode Control with Extended State Observer for Contact Force Regulation in Aerial Manipulator
Authors: Shen Lirui , Mao Pengjun , Fang Qian , Wang Jun
Published: November 2022

The aerial manipulator is a novel flying robot consisting of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a multi-degree-of-freedom (DoF) robotic arm. It can actively interact with the environment to conduct dangerous or inaccessible tasks for humans. In this paper, we propose a composite control scheme considering force and position for the aerial manipulator to operate in steady contact with the environment when influenced by external disturbances. First, a contact force control method without employing the force sensor is obtained on the mechanical relationship of the system’s contact with the environment. Second, we regard the system’s internal coupling and external disturbance as lumped disturbances and design an extended state observer (ESO) to estimate them. Combined with the disturbance estimation and the nonsingular global fast sliding mode algorithm, a controller derived from the Lyapunov theory is proposed. Finally, we compare the proposed controller with the other four controllers through simulations and actual flight experiments. The results show that the proposed controller can effectively restrain disturbances, reduce convergence time, and guarantee steady contact under external disturbances.
Simple Determination of Gemifloxacin Levels in Human Plasma using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kang Gaeun , Suh Sang Heon , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Jong-Keun
Published: November 2022

Gemifloxacin, a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent of the fluoroquinolone class, is used to treat bacterial infections, including acute bacterial exacerbation of chronic bronchitis and community-acquired pneumonia. This study aimed to develop a simple and robust analysis of gemifloxacin in human plasma by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The sample was prepared using simple protein precipitation procedures with acetonitrile and separated using the Gemini C18 column with a mobile phase (0.1% formic acid: 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile = 78: 22 (V/V)). Moxifloxacin was used as an internal standard. The mass spectrometer was operated in the positive ion mode using multiple reaction monitoring. Each precursor ion of gemifloxacin and moxifloxacin was monitored at m/z 390.1/402.1, and their product ions were monitored at m/z 372.3/384.4. The calibration curve showed linearity in 0.005–5 μg/mL with an appropriate correlation coefficient (≥0.99). The variation coefficient of intra- and interprecision values of gemifloxacin was <15%. The intra- and interaccuracy values ranged from 85% to 115%, except for the lower limit of quantification (accuracy range: 80%–120%). The proposed method was performed with a simple preparation step, and moxifloxacin, which is easily accessible, was used as the internal standard. These results suggest that the present assay is a practical analytical method and, therefore, can be readily applied for analysis, including in pharmacokinetic studies and therapeutic drug monitoring of gemifloxacin.
Radiofrequency Ablation Remodels the Tumor Microenvironment and Promotes Neutrophil-Mediated Abscopal Immunomodulation in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Faraoni Erika Y. , O'Brien Baylee J. , Strickland Lincoln N. , Osborn Baron K. , Mota Victoria , Chaney Jarod , Atkins Constance Lynn , Cen Putao , Rowe Julie , Cardenas Jessica , Poulsen Kyle L. , Wray Curtis J. , Thosani Nirav C. , Bailey-Lundberg Jennifer M.
Published: November 2022

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a 5-year overall survival rate of 11%, despite efforts to improve clinical outcomes in the past two decades. Therapeutic resistance is a hallmark of this disease, due to its dense and suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) is a promising local ablative and potential immunomodulatory therapy for PDAC. In this study, we performed RFA in a preclinical tumor-bearing KrasG12D; Trp53R172H/+; Pdx1:Cre (KPC) syngeneic model, analyzed local and abscopal affects after RFA and compared our findings with resected PDAC specimens. We found that RFA reduced PDAC tumor progression in vivo and promoted strong TME remodeling. In addition, we discovered tumor-infiltrating neutrophils determined abscopal effects. Using imaging mass cytometry, we showed that RFA elevated dendritic cell numbers in RFA-treated tumors and promoted a significant CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell abscopal response. In addition, RFA elevated levels of programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) and checkpoint blockade inhibition targeting PD-L1 sustained tumor growth reduction in the context of RFA. This study indicates RFA treatment, which has been shown to increase tumor antigen shedding, promotes antitumor immunity. This is critical in PDAC where recent clinical immunotherapy trials have not resulted in substantial changes in overall survival.
Performance of Sequentially Bilateral Cochlear Implanted Children Who Speak Mandarin
Authors: Li Yi-Lu , Chen Chia-Szu , Yang Hui-Mei , Chen Hsiao-Chuan , Wu Jiunn-Liang
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Cochlear implantation is an effective treatment for children with deafness. Although the binaural effect of bilateral cochlear implantation on sound localization and speech perception in noisy environments has been demonstrated, the outcome and performance predictors of the second cochlear implant (CI2) remain uncertain for patients receiving sequential implantation. This study evaluated the hearing performance between the first cochlear implant (CI1), CI2, and bilateral cochlear implants (CI1+2) among children with sequential bilateral cochlear implantation. Methods: This single-center retrospective study enrolled 14 children and adolescents aged 8–18 years who underwent sequential bilateral cochlear implantation with a mean interimplant interval of 8.2 years. The Mandarin Lexical Neighborhood Test (M-LNT), the Mandarin Hearing in Noise Test (M-HINT), and the Comprehensive Cochlear Implant Questionnaire (CCIQ) scores of participants were evaluated. Mann-Whitney U tests and Spearman correlation analysis were performed to analyze factors associated with CI2 performance. Results: In the 1-year follow-up period after CI2 implantation, although the M-LNT mean score for CI2 was significantly lower than that for CI1, the M-LNT scores for CI2 and CI1+2 improved significantly over time. In a noisy environment, CI1+2 significantly outperformed CI1 in the M-HINT. The M-LNT score for CI2 was significantly associated with preoperative bimodal fitting, residual hearing of the second implanted ear, and CI2 daily-usage time. Specific to CI2, the CCIQ showed improvement 1 year after CI2 implantation. Conclusion: CI2 improved the hearing performance and quality of life of recipients with longer interimplant intervals, especially in noisy environments, and its efficacy was associated with preoperative bimodal fitting and regular daily use.
Do Not Ignore Those Raccoon Eyes; They May Indicate Lethal AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Sapkota Surendra , Kuehl Sapna , Pulluri Bhargavi
Published: November 2022

Light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a lethal form of systemic amyloidosis that arises from the clonal expansion of CD38+ plasma cells. Organ damage occurs when these plasma cells produce misfolded immunoglobulin light chains, which form amyloid fibrils and deposit in tissues. A minority of patients with AL amyloidosis show “raccoon eyes” caused by increased vascular fragility from accumulation of amyloid fibrils. Amyloidosis can be directly associated with bleeding diathesis due to factor X deficiency as factor X binds to amyloid fibrils primarily in the liver and spleen. A 65-year-old Caucasian male presented with random bruising in the upper chest and around the eyes for 1.5 years. Physical examination was unremarkable, except for neck bruising. Pertinent workup showed protein electrophoresis with a faint M spike, increased serum lambda light chains, a kappa to lambda ratio of 0.06, increased Bence-Jones proteins, reduced factor X activity, elevated NT-proBNP. The bone marrow biopsy was positive for Congo red stain for amyloid protein. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse enhancement of the right and left ventricle subendocardial late gadolinium, consistent with cardiac amyloidosis. The patient started systemic therapy with a regimen of daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib, and dexamethasone. After one cycle of therapy, lambda light chains normalized with an improvement in bruising. Diagnostic delays for cardiac patients are concerning as the median survival rate among these patients, when not treated, is approximately 6 months after the onset of symptoms. Since timely treatment can prevent organ damage, clinicians should be aware of specific clinical signs such as raccoon eyes and the importance of systemic evaluation for a prompt diagnosis.
Implementation of the internet of things on smart posters using near field communication technology in the tourism sector
Authors: Hamzah Muhammad Luthfi , Purwati Astri Ayu , Sutoyo Sutoyo , Marsal Arif , Sarbani Sarbani , Nazaruddin Nazaruddin
Published: November 2022

Tourism promotion in Pekanbaru is one step in increasing the number of tourists visiting Pekanbaru City. Through tourism promotion, tourists will find out where the locations are in Pekanbaru and information related to these tourist objects. This research aims to design a tourism promotion system using near-field communication (NFC) smart posters using smartphones in the city of Pekanbaru and apply NFC technology to Android smartphones in the city of Pekanbaru. Promote tourism in the city of Pekanbaru. They were testing this application with the System Usability Score, which had a good score of 74.30. This study shows that the planning and modeling of the smart poster system using NFC technology makes it easier to identify important information for every tourism activity in Pekanbaru. The results of this study are the design and product of an intelligent poster using NFC on an Android smartphone that can help users achieve information so that it is more effective and efficient.
Odonata (Insecta) community in the Environmental Protection Area of the Machado River hydrographic basin, southern Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Guedes Marcella Bigoni , Vilela Diogo Silva , Souza Marcos Magalhães de
Published: November 2022

Only 8% of the approximately 120 conservation units in Minas Gerais State collect information on the order Odonata, which motivated this study. We aimed to survey communities of this insect group in the Environmental Protection Area of the Machado River hydrographic basin, southern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. For this purpose, 12 areas were sampled by active searching from September 2018 to March 2019. Representatives of 71 Odonata species belonging to 8 families were collected. Seven species were found exclusively in this conservation unit, and two species were newly recorded for the state, namely Erythrodiplax chromoptera (Borror, 1942) and Micrathyria venezuelae De Marmels, 1989. This study surveyed the fifth richest odonatofauna in Minas Gerais State, underscoring the importance of the studied area for conservation of Odonata communities and necessitating actions for decreasing environmental impacts on this biological patrimony.
Two species of the hoverfly genus Eumerus Meigen (Diptera: Syrphidae) new record for Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Asghar , Shehzad Anjum , Dyola Urmila , Qasim Muhammad , Fatima Noor , Maryam Zershina
Published: November 2022

An updated checklist of the genus Eumerus Meigen, 1822 is presented from Pakistan along with two new country records, i.e., Eumerus vestitus Bezzi, 1912 and Eumerus sogdianus Stackelberg, 1952. Eumerus sogdianus is native to Central and Southern Europe, but recorded from east to Central and Southern Asia, and Eumerus vestitus is native to the Afrotropical region, but recently also recorded from India. Both species are collected from northern areas of Pakistan – the extreme edge of the western Himalayas, where a significant diversity of hoverflies has been reported in recent studies. A brief diagnosis, identification key, and a taxonomic remark on known Pakistani Eumerus species are presented. A distribution map and detailed photographs of the newly recorded species are also presented.
Índices pluviométricos críticos para prevenção de desastres por deslizamentos na cidade de Niterói, RJ
Authors: Silva Aline Pimentel da , Barroso Emílio Velloso , Polivanov Helena
Published: November 2022

Em 2010, a cidade de Niterói foi assolada por fortes chuvas, registrando altos índices pluviométricos acumulados em poucas horas. Tal evento ocasionou diversos desastres, principalmente associados a deslizamentos. Com o intuito de proteger a população e contribuir para a gestão de riscos na cidade, o presente trabalho apresenta limiares críticos de pluviometria para o município, usando uma compilação de informações referentes aos deslizamentos ocorridos entre os anos de 2014 e 2018, bem como os registros pluviométricos a eles associados. As correlações entre os parâmetros intensidade horária e chuvas antecedentes mostraram-se mais eficazes para distinguir os limiares de precipitação que ocasionam deslizamentos na cidade. Como resultado, chuvas horárias maiores ou iguais a 40 mm e a precipitação acumulada a partir de 90 mm, num período de até 24 horas, indicam alta possibilidade de ocorrência de deslizamentos na região. Os resultados também permitiram o desenvolvimento de índices pluviométricos críticos, que podem vir a ser utilizados na gestão de risco de desastres do município.
Plantas (i)legais: proibição, regularização e estados de transformação na América Latina contemporânea
Authors: Oliveira Aline Ferreira , Gómez Mateus Diana Paola
Published: November 2022

Este dossiê surgiu da pergunta "como se proíbe uma planta?" almejando analisar processos de proibição e/ou legalização de drogas de origem vegetal e fúngica em termos latino-americanos. Os autores aqui reunidos observam no Brasil, Chile, Argentina e México estes processos e suas mudanças ao longo do tempo sem abandonar o olhar crítico sobre as possíveis consequências das transformações legislativas que conhecemos, as quais, por um lado, não deixam de lado a lógica da criminalização, e que, por outro, podem criar novas formas de exclusão. Desse modo, abrimos um espaço de discussão sobre um tema de urgente debate e esperamos presenciar, com a devida reflexão crítica e com a presença dos diversos agentes envolvidos, o desenvolvimento dos caminhos da regulamentação que garantam a redução dos danos causados pela Guerra às drogas.
Reperfusion Injury Is Associated With Poor Outcome in Patients With Recanalization After Thrombectomy
Authors: Zhou Ying , He Yaode , Yan Shenqiang , Chen Lin , Zhang Ruoxia , Xu Jinjin , Hu Haitao , Liebeskind David S. , Lou Min
Published: November 2022

Background:

The existence of cerebral reperfusion injury in human beings remains controversial. Thus, we aimed to explore the presence of reperfusion injury in acute ischemic stroke patients with recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy and analyzed its impact on neurological outcome.

Methods:

We reviewed our prospectively collected database CIPPIS (Comparison Influence to Prognosis of CTP and MRP in AIS Patients, NCT03367286), and enrolled anterior circulation large artery occlusion patients with recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy who underwent (1) computed tomography (CT) perfusion on admission and immediately after recanalization to determine reperfusion region, and (2) CT and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) immediately and 24 hours after recanalization to determine lesion areas. The expansion of lesion between recanalization and 24 hours within reperfusion region was potentially caused by reperfusion, thus termed as radiological observed reperfusion injury (RORI). Based on the imaging modality immediately after recanalization, RORI was further divided into RORI
CT
and RORI
MRI
. We first included a small cohort who had performed both CT and MRI immediately after recanalization to validate the consistency between RORI
CT
and RORI
MRI
(Study 1). Then the association with RORI
CT
and poor outcome, defined as 3-month modified Rankin Scale score of 3 to 6, was explored in a larger cohort (Study 2).

Results:

Study 1 included 23 patients and good consistency was found between RORI
CT
and RORI
MRI
(intraclass correlation=0.97,
P
<0.001). Among 226 patients included in Study 2, a total of 106 (46.9%) were identified with RORI. The ratio of RORI to reperfusion region was 30.1 (16.2, 51.0)% and was independently associated with poor outcome (odds ratio=1.55 per 10% [95% CI‚ 1.30–1.84];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggested that RORI was relatively frequent in stroke patients with recanalization after mechanical thrombectomy and associated with poor outcome despite successful recanalization.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03367286.
Rescue Endovascular Treatment of Patients With Emergent Large Vessel Occlusion Attributed to Intracranial Atherosclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Almallouhi Eyad , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Chalhoub Reda , Kicielinski Kimberly P. , Lena Jonathan , Brennan Emily A. , Zaidat Osama , de Havenon Adam , Spiotta Alejandro M. , Al Kasab Sami
Published: November 2022

Background

Patients with acute stroke presenting with large vessel occlusion secondary to intracranial atherosclerosis (ICAS‐LVO) may require rescue therapy (RT) in addition to mechanical thrombectomy to achieve and maintain successful recanalization. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of comparative studies that reported outcomes of RT in patients with ICAS‐LVO to evaluate its safety and efficacy.

Methods

Databases searched include PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and Scopus from database date of inception through August 17, 2021. We included comparative studies that reported the outcomes of ICAS‐LVO RT compared with outcomes of patients with ICAS‐LVO who did not undergo RT or to those patients presenting with embolic large vessel occlusion (non–ICAS‐LVO). Meta‐analysis using the random‐effects model was used to combine estimates reporting odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs.

Results

A total of 9 nonrandomized studies were included: 5 studies in ICAS‐LVO RT versus ICAS‐LVO non‐RT analysis and 5 in ICAS‐LVO RT versus non‐ICAS LVO analysis. Rescue treatments included intra‐arterial antiplatelets, angioplasty, stenting, or a combination of treatments. Compared with non‐RT ICAS‐LVO, RT was associated with an increased favorable 90‐day outcome (OR, 3.19 [95% CI, 1.91–5.32];
I
2
= 14%) and decreased 90‐day mortality (OR, 0.35 [95% CI, 0.16–0.76];
I
2
= 21%). In the analysis of ICAS‐LVO RT versus embolic LV, the incidence of favorable 90‐day outcome and 90‐day mortality did not differ between ICAS‐LVO RT and non–ICAS‐LVO (OR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.58–1.64;
I
2
= 50%]; and OR, 1.22 [95% CI, 0.90–1.66;
I
2
= 0%], respectively).

Conclusions

Rescue treatment is likely associated with better outcomes in patients with ICAS‐LVO. The outcomes of patients with ICAS‐LVO who receive RT may be comparable with patients with embolic large vessel occlusion (non–ICAS‐LVO).
Clinging to a Jewish Saint in a Time of Growing Turmoil: Appropriating the Figure of Rabbi Judah the Pious in Late Fifteenth-Century Jewish Folktales from Regensburg
Authors: Shoham-Steiner Ephraim (Effie)
Published: November 2022

Among a unique collection of stories in Hebrew manuscript copied in the sixteenth century and found at the National Library of Israel (NLI) are twenty-seven hagiographic tales about the prominent Jewish pietist of Medieval Germany, Rabbi Judah the Pious (d. 1217) and his father Rabbi Shmuel ben Kalonymus. Scholars have suggested that the entire original collection dates back to ca. 1300 and echoes the lives, concerns, and ideals of thirteenth-century Ashkenazi Jews. However, some of the hagiographic tales found in the collection seem to have been written later, appropriating the figure of the mystical Rabbi Judah and using it in stories from the fifteenth century that were set in his city, Regensburg. Told by the Jews of this city, the tales of Rabbi Judah and his magical abilities seem to have fulfilled the needs and concerns of the community in the turbulent late fifteenth century. The paper analyzes three of these stories, demonstrating how they correspond with the realities of this time and suggesting the possible roles the tales of Rabbi Judah and his miracles played for Regensburg Jewry as they contended with the hardships of daily life and the shadow of expulsion that loomed large over the community in this period.
Waging Peace, towards an Africa Union Stabilisation Strategy for Somalia
Authors: Tchie Andrew E. Yaw
Published: November 2022

Over the last few years, successful military operations across Somalia have helped to unshackle towns south of Mogadishu from al Shabaab, demonstrating the capacity of the African Union Mission to Somalia (amisom) to achieve parts of its mandate. However, friction between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Federal Member States have heightened tensions and rifts over elections, state management and overall security, despite significant international support. Despite amisom s efforts, the legacies of the 1990s civil war have remained unresolved, and state restoration has been disrupted by political, clannish, environmental and structural challenges. In contrast, al Shabaab remains adaptable, resilient and exploits grievances, local dynamics, and competition over resources. This paper argues, the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council needs to re-mandate and reinforce amisom in conjunction with an AU stabilisation strategy for Somalia which exploits experiences from the AU’s Regional Stabilisation Strategy for the Lake Chad Basin.
The Masyumi Networks and the Proliferation of Islamic Higher Education in Indonesia (1945–1965)
Authors: Latief Hilman
Published: November 2022

This article addresses the roles played by Masyumi political leaders in fuelling dakwah activism in Indonesia and energizing the inception and proliferation of Islamic higher education institutions before and after the political turmoil faced by the Masyumi party. Islamic politics and education in Indonesia were intermingled and utilized by Masyumi leaders to promote Islam, foster the dignity of the ummah (Muslim community), and achieve Maysumi’s political vision via non-political activism. Using social-structure networks analysis, this article argues that the Masyumi networks and the spirit of Islamic modernism accelerated the spread of Islamic higher education in Indonesia, especially from 1945–1965. The Masyumi networks consisted of Muslim politicians, the intelligentsia, technocrats, noble families, and businesspeople.
A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words: Emotion Recognition and Qualitative Impressions of Armand Henrion’s Self-Portraits Displaying Mixed Emotions
Authors: Müller Lauriane , Mohr Christine , Cano Caroline , Camenzind Lucia , Soborun Yanisha , Jonauskaite Domicele
Published: November 2022

Researchers often study recognition of single emotions. Realistic faces, however, display several emotions in quick sequence or at the same time (mixed emotions). This likely causes interindividual differences in peoples’ reactions to the same situations and stimuli. We studied such differences using 11 self-portraits painted by Armand Henrion (1875–1958), in which he depicts himself as a Pierrot clown displaying different affective states. Thirty-eight adult participants (15 men) saw the self-portraits twice (one brief, then one unlimited presentation). After the first brief presentation (1–2 s), participants (i) selected the most prominent emotion (out of 20) and (ii) rated the intensity of this emotion. After the second unlimited presentation, participants performed the same selections and ratings before describing what could have caused the facial expression (qualitative data). Results confirmed that Armand Henrion’s self-portraits display mixed emotions: participants selected diverse emotions, sometimes differing in valence. Participants selected comparable emotions between presentations but rated them as more intense the second time. The qualitative answers complemented the selected emotions. For instance, when some participants chose ‘disgust’, others chose ‘sadness’ for the same self-portrait. The qualitative answer matched this choice, indicating that the character either “ate or drank something they don’t like” or “lost something or someone”. We conclude that Armand Henrion’s self-portraits provide a promising set of facial stimuli to investigate mixed emotions. Each self-portrait displays diverse emotions of varying intensities and they are realistic because they could all be linked to possible situations.
Structuring Discretion: The Association Between Law Enforcement Policies and Arrests of Children in Florida
Authors: Novak Abigail , De Francisco Lopes Vitoria
Published: November 2022

Thousands of children are arrested annually in the United States, and little is known about law enforcement policies regarding the arrest of children. The goal of this study was to examine the association between law enforcement policies pertaining to the arrest of children and arrests involving children in the state of Florida, the largest state in the U.S. that lacks a minimum age for juvenile court jurisdiction. Policies pertaining to the arrest of children were obtained from 215 law enforcement agencies, serving 95% of Florida’s population. Results indicated policies were not associated with arrests involving children, suggesting less-discretionary policies may be needed to reduce arrests for children in states lacking minimum ages for juvenile court jurisdiction.
Assessing the Practices of Online Counterfeit Currency Vendors
Authors: Holt Thomas J. , Lee Jin R. , O’Dell Elizabeth
Published: November 2022

The development of the Internet and e-commerce tools have simplified the process of commercial exchange for both legal and illicit goods. The rise of online markets for illicit goods enable access to facilitatory resources for crime, such as firearms and counterfeit identity documents. Few have considered how these online markets facilitate the sale of counterfeit currencies for use in offline environments. The current study attempted to address this gap in the literature through a qualitative crime script analysis of counterfeit currency vendors operating on both the Open and Dark Web to understand the ways vendors advertise, actualize, and exit these transactions. The implications of this analysis for our understanding of the acquisition processes of facilitatory products are explored in detail.
Couple Connectedness in Corrections: Attachment, Childhood Parental Stability, and Dyadic Adjustment in Romantic Relationships With an Incarcerated Partner
Authors: Tadros Eman , Gregorash Alexis M.
Published: November 2022

Attachment styles within dyadic relationships affect multiple levels of the family structure that include: the relationship, the ability to navigate and adjust to change as a couple, as well as the implications it has on children. Utilizing data from the Multi-site Family Study on Incarceration, Parenting, and Partnering [MFS-IP], Actor-Partner Interdependence Modeling was used to address the correlation between dyadic adjustment and attachment between couples, as well as addressing factors of race on this correlation. Results yielded that higher rates of attachment were associated with better dyadic adjustment, especially if one partner had a higher rate of attachment.
A methodological comparison of discriminant function analysis and binary logistic regression for estimating sex in forensic research and case-work
Authors: Rani Deepika , Krishan Kewal , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study is to assess the accuracy of two multivariate statistical approaches for estimating sex from human external ear anthropometry, namely, discriminant function analysis (DFA) and binary logistic regression (BLR). A cross-sectional sample of 497 participants (233 males and 264 females) aged 18–35 years (24.42 ± 5.17) was obtained from Himachal Pradesh state of North India. Both the ears of the participants (994) were examined for anthropometric measurements. A total of 12 anthropometric measurements were taken independently on the left and right ear of each individual with the help of a pair of sliding calipers using a standard method. The sex of the population groups was discriminated against using binary logistic regression and discriminant function analysis. The predictive percentage of sex estimation computed from both the models were substantially the same, that is, 76.3% from DFA and 76.2% from BLR, with nearly comparable (∼0.02) sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values, whereas the values of correct predicted percentage were 0.1% higher in DFA than BLR. Moreover, the other comparison metrics, such as classification error, B-index, and Matthews correlation coefficient indicated that both models performed equally well. The study highlighted that if the assumptions of the statistical methods are met, both methods are equally capable of discriminating the population depending on sex. The study recommends that the discriminant function analysis and binary logistic regression may be used synonymously in forensic research and case-work pertaining to the estimation of sex and various other forensic situations.
Attitudes Toward and Experience With Assisted-Death Services and Psychological Implications for Health Practitioners: A Narrative Systematic Review
Authors: Wibisono Susilo , Minto Kiara , Lizzio-Wilson Morgana , Thomas Emma F. , Crane Monique , Molenberghs Pascal , Kho Madison , Amiot Catherine E. , Decety Jean , Breen Lauren J. , Noonan Kerrie , Forbat Liz , Louis Winnifred
Published: November 2022

A narrative systematic review was conducted to review studies that examine mental health implications of involvement in assisted-death services among health practitioners. Qualitative and quantitative studies were included to understand health practitioners’ attitudes and experiences with assisted dying services, as well as to identify the mental health consequences. We identified 18 articles from 1591 articles drawn from seven major scientific databases (i.e., PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus). Two raters independently evaluated the exclusion and inclusion decisions of the articles and examined methodological flaws in the selected articles. We found that engagement in assisted death services were not reliably associated with mental health outcomes such as anxiety and moral distress. Both positive and negative outcomes were reported, and psychological outcomes for practitioners were shown to vary based on factors including social support for health practitioners’ views; their perceived capacity to care for the patients; and legislation.
Facebook Use and Cyberbullying by Students with Learning Disabilities: The Role of Self-Esteem and Loneliness
Authors: Touloupis Thanos
Published: November 2022

The present study aimed to investigate the perceived intensity of Facebook use and the involvement in cyberbullying among elementary school students with learning disabilities, who attend General Education classrooms. Furthermore, the role of students’ self-esteem and sense of loneliness in the manifestation of the above behaviors was examined. A self-report questionnaire, which included a scale on perceived intensity of Facebook use, cyberbullying, self-esteem, and sense of loneliness was completed by 211 sixth grade students (119 boys, 92 girls) from randomly selected schools located in economically diverse districts of Thessaloniki (Greece). Students had been diagnosed with learning disabilities in the past. According to the results, students and mainly girls seemed to make intense Facebook use and experience cyberbullying (as victims/bullies). Additionally, students’ self-esteem and sense of loneliness predicted indirectly (negatively and positively, respectively) their involvement in cyberbullying, through the mediating role of their perceived intensity of Facebook use. The findings imply the need to implement school prevention actions aimed at strengthening psycho-emotional state of students with learning disabilities and promoting a prudent use of social media. These initiatives may prevent students with learning disabilities from future engagement in cyberbullying incidents.
Perspectives of practicing school psychologists during COVID-19: A multi-country, mixed methods investigation
Authors: May Fiona , Schaffer Gary E. , Allen Kelly-Ann , Berger Emily , Hagen Alexa von , Hill Vivian , Morris Zoe A. , Prior Stefanie , Summers Dianne , Wurf Gerald , Reupert Andrea
Published: November 2022

COVID-19 presented a range of challenges to the delivery of school psychology services in countries around the world. The current study aimed to investigate the practices of school psychologists from the United States of America, Australia, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom, including changes to practice and exploration of the factors that supported the delivery of school psychology services during the pandemic. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 1,030 school psychologists and analyzed using a mixed methods, multiple case study design. Differing impacts of the pandemic on the working hours of school psychologists were reported across countries. Participants in all countries reported a shift to online working, with an increased focus on consultation and intervention and a reduction in psychoeducational assessments. School psychologists from all nations emphazised the importance of self-care strategies, social connections and physical activity and the role of support via supervision or professional networks. Access to appropriate technology and responsive workplace policies and procedures were also identified as important. Results have implications for the internationalization of the school psychology profession and can inform international school psychology planning in response to future crises.
Comparison of short-term results of subxiphoid and conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery in diagnostic wedge resections
Authors: Sezen Celal Bugra , Dogru Mustafa Vedat , Tanrıkulu Gamze , Aker Cemal , Erduhan Semih , Saydam Ozkan , Metin Muzaffer
Published: November 2022

Background

This study aimed to compare early results in patients who underwent subxiphoid wedge resection with those operated on using a multiportal approach.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 151 patients who underwent diagnostic wedge resection for suspected interstitial lung disease. Patients who underwent wedge resection via subxiphoid video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery were compared.

Results

The study included 90 men (59.6%) and 61 women (40.4%) with a mean age of 54.8 ± 12 years. Of these, 127 patients underwent conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and 24 patients underwent subxiphoid video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. Postoperative complications occurred in 13 patients (8.6%), with no significant difference according to surgical technique. Sex was a significant factor in the rate of complications (12.2% in men vs. 3.2% in women). There was no intraoperative mortality; the 30-day mortality rate was 4% (n = 6). Five nonsurviving patients were in the conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery group and 1 was in the subxiphoid video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery group ( p = 0.95).

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that the subxiphoid approach reduced procedure time and length of hospital stay in the early period, while there was no significant difference between the techniques in terms of complications or mortality. Based on these findings, we conclude that surgical outcomes were as successful with the subxiphoid approach as with conventional video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
Trends of re-operative coronary artery bypass grafting: A two-decade experience
Authors: Sajja Lokeswara Rao , Mannam Gopichand , Kamtam Devanish Narasimhasanth , Saikiran Krishnamurthy Venkata Satya Siva , Sompalli Sriramulu
Published: November 2022

Background

The prevalence of redo coronary artery bypass grafting has markedly changed over the last two decades. We aim to assess the trends of redo coronary artery bypass grafting and clinical outcomes of redo coronary artery bypass grafting over two different periods.

Methods

This is a retrospective, metachronous, observational study of patients who underwent redo coronary artery bypass grafting between January 1998 through December 2004 and January 2005 through September 2021 who were categorized into group 1 and group 2, respectively. The trends in the prevalence of redo coronary artery bypass grafting, and 30-day outcomes were analyzed.

Results

A total of 261 patients underwent a redo coronary artery bypass grafting. Group 1 and group 2 included 114 and 147 patients, respectively. 62.59% of group 2 patients underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting compared to 6.14% in group 1 ( p < 0.01). The patients undergoing redo coronary artery bypass grafting in group 2 were significantly older (60.65 ± 7.78 years vs. 50.99 ± 7.66 years, p < 0.001) and were more likely to be hypertensive (49.66% vs. 29.82%, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the proportion of diabetes ( p = 0.82), smoking ( p = 0.24), dyslipidemia ( p = 0.64), and preoperative myocardial infarction ( p = 0.14). The proportion of patients who presented post-PCI was significantly higher in group 2 (27.89% vs. 10.53%, p < 0.001). There was also a shift in the usage of grafts from the left internal thoracic artery to the saphenous vein graft ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The annual rate of redo coronary artery bypass grafting was declining but has now reached a plateau. The current outcomes of patients undergoing redo coronary artery bypass grafting are comparable to that of the earlier times despite a higher co-morbidity burden in patients of recent times.
Couple Classes of Depressive Symptom Trajectories and Associations with Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Morgan Preston C , Wittenborn Andrea K
Published: November 2022

The literature indicates a robust negative relationship between depression and couple relationship satisfaction. However, less is known about the differential effects of romantic relationships on depression over time and whether one or both partners experience depression. Using data from 1215 couples across 4 years, we sought to examine couple classes of depressive symptom trajectories and investigate the degree to which relationship satisfaction predicted class membership. Using joint-probability growth mixture modeling, we found three couple classes of depressive symptom trajectories: women’s moderate, men’s low class, men’s moderate, women’s low class, and men’s and women’s low class. Logistic regression results revealed both men’s and women’s higher relationship satisfaction was associated with women’s moderate, men’s low class membership while both partners’ higher relationship satisfaction was not associated with men’s moderate, women’s low class membership, in comparison to the men’s and women’s low stable class. These findings contribute to the literature by identifying the heterogeneity of patterns of depressive symptom trajectories among couples and the association of relationship satisfaction with couple classes.