bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic Road Crack Detection Using Convolutional Neural Network Based on Semi-Supervised Learning
Authors: Yang Jun , Sun Xiaoli , Teng Shuai
Published: September 2024

Crack detection in pavements is a critical task for infrastructure maintenance, but it often requires extensive manual labeling of training samples, which is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a semi-supervised learning approach based on a DenseNet classification model to detect pavement cracks more efficiently. The primary objective is to leverage a small set of labeled samples to improve the model's performance by incorporating a large number of unlabeled samples through semi-supervised learning. This method enhances the DenseNet model's ability to generalize by iteratively learning from new unlabeled datasets. As a result, the proposed approach not only reduces the need for extensive manual labeling but also mitigates issues related to label inconsistency and errors in the original labels. The experimental results demonstrate that the semi-supervised DenseNet model achieves a prediction precision of 96.77% and a recall of 94.17%, with an F1 score of 95.45% and an Intersectidn over Union (IoU) of 91.30%. These metrics highlight the model's high accuracy and effectiveness in crack detection. The proposed method not only improves label quality and model performance but also offers practical value for engineering applications in the field of pavement maintenance, making it a valuable tool for infrastructure management.
Identifying and Explaining the Benefits of Intelligentization in Schools
Authors: Javadi Zainab , Hasanabadi Karamatullah
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Making schools smarter is one of the new approaches in the field of education, which will transform the teaching and learning process by making changes in the curricula. Considering the importance of the school's role in the formation of students' talent and ability, and the importance of education and the importance of the quality of education, in this research, an attempt has been made to identify the benefits of intelligentization in schools. Method: This research was done with the method of content analysis. First, 24 people were purposefully selected to conduct the interview, and after conducting the interview, the data analysis process was carried out with maxqda10 software. After extracting the open codes, these codes were categorized and placed in subcategories, and finally, by categorizing the subcategories, the main categories were identified and extracted. Results: By analyzing the data, 7 main categories and 36 sub-categories were identified as the benefits of making schools smarter. Conclusion: The results of the research showed that the quality of education in schools can be improved by using emerging technologies in making schools smarter.
Midwives’ Knowledge, Perceptions and Practices on Utilization of the Partograph at Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Hospital
Authors: Mutema Esther , Mhlanga Maxwell
Published: September 2024

Globally, maternal death has been an issue of concern, while obstructed and prolonged labour are among the top five causes of these deaths in Africa and Zimbabwe particularly. Proper and effective utilization of the Partograph significantly helps in preventing and reducing the high numbers of birthing complications of such a nature. A Partograph is a labour monitoring chart that provides a pictorial overview of maternal and foetal well-being during the intrapartum period. The study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and practices on the utilization of the Partograph among midwives working at Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Hospital. A descriptive cross sectional design was used, and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 60 participants chosen using the purposive sampling technique. Data were collected and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 22) and presented using charts, tables, and narration. The study identified that midwives were knowledgeable, although they had a negative attitude towards the Partograph attributed by a lack of motivation caused by the absence of support from mentors and supervisors, lack of workshops, and on-the-job training on the use of the graphical chart. Underutilization of the tool, which pointed to poor practice, was attributed to understaffing of midwives, high workload, and burnout syndrome among the labour ward midwives. These implications could lead to omissions, litigations, poor maternal service delivery, and lawsuits. Periodic workshops, symposiums, on-the-job training would go a long way in improving attitudes. The study concluded that the Partograph is a very important tool that should be effectively used in the labour ward so that complications are picked up early, thereby improving maternal outcomes. Support for the midwives, supervision, mentorship, non-monetary incentives, and increased staffing with an acceptable midwife-patient ratio of probably 1:2 would improve practice and yield a positive birthing outcome of a live and healthy mother and baby.
Exploring depression, PTSD, insomnia, and fibromyalgia symptoms in women exposed to Gaza war news: A community-based study from Jordan
Authors: Alsous Mervat , Al. Muhaissen Batoul , Massad Talal , Sayaheen Bilal , Alnasser Tariq , Al-Smadi Ahmed , Al-Zeghoul Reham , Abo Al Rob Osama , Aljabali Alaa A.A. , Gammoh Omar
Published: September 2024

Background:

The circulating violent news about the war on Gaza is believed to impact the mental health status of people globally especially in Jordan, the closest country to Palestine. Also, women are more vulnerable to mental distress.

Aims:

This study investigates the prevalence and correlates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, insomnia, and fibromyalgia among Jordanian females exposed to the Gaza war news.

Method:

In a comprehensive cross-sectional inquiry, we applied validated scales to assess the severity of PTSD, depression, insomnia, and fibromyalgia symptoms in a dataset comprising 1,044 females.

Results:

The findings revealed that 32.3% exhibited severe PTSD symptoms, 53.4% had severe depressive symptoms, 48.2% reported severe insomnia, and 17.2% were diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Exploring demographic factors, the study established statistically significant correlations ( p < .05) between the evaluated symptoms and various variables. Notably, individuals of Palestinian nationality, employed as teachers or housewives, those using over-the-counter analgesics for fibromyalgia, and those with chronic diseases exhibited elevated prevalence rates of the investigated conditions.

Conclusions:

This pioneering study, the first of its kind, delves into the acute psychiatric repercussions of the October 7th conflict on Jordanian females. The alarming prevalence of severe symptoms underscores the urgent need for timely psychiatric intervention.
Psychometric Properties of the Korean Version of the Revised Prolonged Grief Disorder Scale for Bereaved Adults
Authors: Jo Ahran , Lee Dong Hun , Kim Ye Jin , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: September 2024

This study aims to validate the Korean version of the Revised Prolonged Grief Disorder scale (PG-13-R-K) by exploring the psychometric properties of the revised Prolonged Grief Disorder scale in bereaved South Korean adults. A total of 694 bereaved individuals who had experienced the loss of a close person for a duration ranging from 12 to 24 months were included in this study and randomly divided into two separate datasets to conduct factor analyses. The results of both EFA and CFA revealed a single-factor structure for the PG-13-R-K. Moreover, the results of reliability and validity tests showed adequate internal consistency and concurrent validity. These findings suggest that the PG-13-R-K is a reliable and valid tool for assessing PGD symptoms among bereaved Korean adults. The limitations and implications of this study are thoroughly examined and discussed.
Lessons from the early literacy tutoring landscape
Authors: Novicoff Sarah , Loeb Susanna
Published: September 2024

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, tutoring has gained popularity as a strategy to improve the academic achievement of struggling students. Intensive, relationship-based tutoring is a highly effective academic support for many students. A range of tutoring approaches are available to accelerate young students’ literacy. Sarah Novicoff and Susanna Loeb discuss the research into early literacy tutoring and share the key elements found in effective programs.
Making mathematics visible through narrative
Authors: Terrell Karen L.
Published: September 2024

The latest content and practice standards for mathematics have promoted the use of academic language and discourse in this content area. As such, the WIDA Consortium has evolved its guidelines to deepen teachers’ conceptual understanding of language in their content areas, and thus, enable them to provide more effective instruction to multilingual learners. Karen L. Terrell explores one of the primary “key language uses” in mathematics — the narrative genre. She also considers how visuals can be powerful scaffolds and means of expression for multilingual learners and discusses how visuals can be used for students to both receive and express knowledge. The use of narrative and visuals can make mathematics more accessible to all students.
Under the Law: Title IX and the SCOTUS power grab
Authors: Kim Robert
Published: September 2024

New Title IX regulations issued by the Department of Education expand the types of sexual harassment schools must address and give schools greater flexibility in how they handle hearings. But the Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo expands courts’ roles in how federal agencies interpret and enforce regulations like Title IX. Robert Kim considers how the Loper Bright ruling might affect Title IX.
Backtalk: Simplify schooling: Respect the brain’s information organizers
Authors: Brady Marion
Published: September 2024

Competition-based efforts to improve student achievement have not borne fruit. Marion Brady argues that this is because such efforts do not address the problems with the current system of education, in which human knowledge is broken up into separate disciplines. He advocates a systems-based approach that focuses on how ideas and experiences relate to one another.
The logistical governance of vertical commuting in the central business district
Authors: McNeill Donald , Connor Andrea
Published: September 2024

The centre of major cities is a focus of commuting patterns, and this article sets out how major cities use calculative practices to guide commuters through a complex, multiplanar, volumetric city. It examines how public transport officials, consultants, city planners and property developers interact to move commuters through inter-locking public and private spaces on a journey between underground, surface and high-rise commercial structures. Using a case study of Sydney’s central business district, it presents three areas where the governance of this movement can be observed. First, it considers how underground rail planning has adopted new modes of organising capacity, especially in terms of the use of behavioural psychology in organising platform and escalator crowd behaviour. Second, the article discusses navigation at ground level, where rail commuters emerge onto the pavement to continue their journey. Urban planners, along with specialists in wayfinding and people movement, calculate capacity and make behavioural interventions to influence movement up, down and across surfaces. Third, it explores the relationship between elevator technology, vertical people flow analysis and the floorplate design of offices. The article’s contribution is in its conceptual and empirical illustration of how the rhythms of urban crowds are tracked, calculated and structured by a range of experts; in turn, we can see how these experts have emerged as significant agents in maximising the ability to extract value from the built volume of cities.
L2-gain analysis and fault-tolerant control of nonlinear discrete time-delay saturated switched systems with memory state feedback
Authors: Guo Hu , Zhang Xinquan
Published: September 2024

For nonlinear discrete time-delay saturated switched systems with memory feedback, the problem of actuator failure with external disturbances is studied. First, we propose a sufficient condition for the existence of a fault-tolerant state feedback law with memory by using the switched Lyapunov function (SLF) strategy, which ensures that the closed-loop system has a maximum tolerant disturbance capacity by solving the optimization problem. Then, the minimum upper bound on the [Formula: see text]-gain is estimated by solving the optimization problem. Finally, the reliability of the proposed method is verified by examples.
Predicting Complications in Head and Neck Surgery: Comparing Calculators to Surgeons
Authors: Landeen Kelly C. , Vittetoe Kelly L. , Smetak Miriam , Gong Wu , Lindsell Christopher J. , Wood Carey Burton , Bennett Marc
Published: September 2024

Objectives: Surgical outcomes determine national ranking, reputation, and funding, and are often assessed with objective surgical risk calculators (SRCs). Surgeons’ assessments are not considered. This study aims to determine if surgeons or SRCs are more accurate in predicting outcomes. Methods: This prospective cohort study identified a surgeon’s assessment on a patient’s risk preoperatively. The patient’s risk was also calculated using the SRC. Predictions were compared to patient outcomes and to each other to assess whether surgeons or the SRC were more accurate. Results: Of the 101 patients included, 37 (36.6%) experienced a complication of any kind and 18 (17.8%) experienced a serious complication. Smoking resulted in a 2.49 times higher overall complication rate ( P = .04). Laryngectomy patients experienced the highest rate of complications ( P = .02) compared to those undergoing free flap reconstruction [odds ratio (OR) 0.9] or any other surgery (OR 0.26). Both surgeons and the American College of Surgeons (ACS) tool performed poorly on the prediction of the outcome of any complication, with a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) of 0.51 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.39-0.62] and 0.58 (95% CI: 0.47-0.70), respectively, which was not statistically significant ( P = .34). For the prediction of the outcome of serious complication, the AUC for surgeons and the ACS tool were 0.55 (95% CI: 0.41-0.69) and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.46-0.74), respectively, which was not statistically significant ( P = .58). Conclusions: Neither validated risk calculators nor surgeons are accurate in predicting perioperative risk. The only risk factor that contributes to improving predictions for complications is preoperative smoking, although age and type of surgery are also significant predictors. Risk calculators may therefore not be appropriate metrics for assessing hospital performance. These findings can help guide preoperative counseling and may help in the development of more accurate predictive tools as the healthcare field continues to incorporate artificial intelligence into surgical planning.
Extralaryngeal Spread in Total Laryngectomy: Comparing the Need for Thyroidectomy
Authors: Cain Macie , Gibson Anna Celeste , Farsi Soroush , King Deanne , Davis Kyle , Vural Emre , Sunde Jumin , Moreno Mauricio
Published: September 2024

Objective: At our institution, thyroid preservation during total laryngectomy (TL) varies by surgeon, offering a distinctive dataset to compare disease outcomes in TL patients with or without thyroidectomy. Methods: This retrospective chart review study, conducted at a tertiary referral medical center, comprises patients who underwent TL for laryngeal or hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma from 2014 to 2022. The study includes data on patient demographics, surgeries, pathological staging, tumor subsites, thyroid involvement, and adjuvant therapy. Results: In this study, 147 patients, mostly male (83%) and white (82%), were included. Surgeries comprised 60 hemi thyroidectomies, 35 total or completion thyroidectomies, 48 without thyroid removal, and 4 isthmusectomies. Data analysis compared these 4 groups and the cohort of no thyroid removal (NT) versus any thyroidectomy (T = 99). Among the 99 patients, 27 showed positive gland involvement, primarily due to direct disease extension (26 cases). No significant difference was found in recurrence rates or recurrence-related mortality among the 4 groups or between NT and T ( P = .156). However, there was a significant difference in T staging and prognostic staging among the groups and between NT versus T ( P = .043). The NT cohort showed a higher likelihood of being T3, while T was more likely to be T4. Conclusion: We found no significant difference in recurrence rates or mortality between TL patients with or without thyroid removal. However, those without thyroid removal often had lower T stages. Notably, 27% of thyroidectomy patients had gland invasion, highlighting the importance of thyroid removal in TL.
Overshadowed voices in media reporting on truth-telling commissions
Authors: Skogerbø Eli , McCallum Kerry , Dreher Tanja
Published: September 2024

Over the past decades, truth-telling commissions aimed at uncovering, confronting and providing justice for the past treatment of children have been established in many countries, including the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (RCIRCSA 2013-2017) and the Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) (2018-2023). Journalism plays important roles both in triggering commissions of inquiry and in attracting public attention to their work and findings. This paper investigates media reporting on the RCIRCSA and the TRC. The Commissions were not similar in scale, scope or legal powers, however, they both generated spaces for public listening to stories about the consequences of past policies and present practices of child removal, abuse and racism that potentially could change the grand narratives of each nation. Our findings suggest that future commissions should pay particular attention to the structural power of news logics and mediation. We find, despite the widely different cases, consistent patterns of uneven and hierarchical media reporting and overshadowing of First Nations voices and aspirations.
Integrating information ethics into library and information science curriculum at a public university in Malawi
Authors: Malanga Donald Flywell , Simwaka Kaitano , Chifuniro Ellen
Published: September 2024

The role of information ethics (IE) is lauded as a catalyst for the moral and professional development of library and information professionals globally. Despite this notion, the extent to which IE is integrated into the Library and Information Science (LIS) curriculum is not fully researched. Therefore, this study explored the importance of IE integration into the LIS curriculum in higher education in Malawi focusing on the Department of Library and Information Science, Mzuzu University. The study adopted a case study design, employing a qualitative research method. The study drew concepts of IE typology as a theoretical lens postulated by Froehlich. The findings established a low-level integration of IE into the LIS curriculum. In line with the findings, the study recommends a stand-alone course or module for effective delivery and indoctrination of IE concepts and practices.
A Comparison of Throwing Arm Kinetics and Ball Velocity in High School Pitchers With Overall Fast and Overall Slow Cumulative Joint and Segment Velocities
Authors: Manzi Joseph E. , Dowling Brittany , Wang Zhaorui , Sudah Suleiman Y. , Dowling Brockton A. , Wishman Mark , McElheny Kathryn , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Erickson Brandon J. , Ciccotti Michael C. , Ciccotti Michael G. , Dines Joshua S.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Individual maximum joint and segment angular velocities have shown positive associations with throwing arm kinetics and ball velocity in baseball pitchers.

Purpose:

To observe how cumulative maximum joint and segment angular velocities, irrespective of sequence, affect ball velocity and throwing arm kinetics in high school pitchers.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

High school (n = 55) pitchers threw 8 to 12 fastball pitches while being evaluated with 3-dimensional motion capture (480 Hz). Maximum joint and segment angular velocities (lead knee extension, pelvis rotation, trunk rotation, shoulder internal rotation, and forearm pronation) were calculated for each pitcher. Pitchers were classified as overall fast, overall slow, or high velocity for each joint or segment velocity subcategory, or as population, with any pitcher eligible to be included in multiple subcategories. Kinematic and kinetic parameters were compared among the various subgroups using t tests with post hoc regressions and multivariable regression models created to predict throwing arm kinetics and ball velocity, respectively.

Results:

The lead knee extension and pelvis rotation velocity subgroups achieved significantly higher normalized elbow varus torque ( P = .016) and elbow flexion torque ( P = .018) compared with population, with equivalent ball velocity ( P = .118). For every 1-SD increase in maximum pelvis rotation velocity (87 deg/s), the normalized elbow distractive force increased by 4.7% body weight (BW) ( B = 0.054; β = 0.290; P = .013). The overall fast group was older (mean ± standard deviation, 16.9 ± 1.4 vs 15.4 ± 0.9 years; P = .007), had 8.9-mph faster ball velocity (32.7 ± 3.1 vs 28.7 ± 2.3 m/s; P = .002), and had significantly higher shoulder internal rotation torque (63.1 ± 17.4 vs 43.6 ± 12.0 Nm; P = .005), elbow varus torque (61.8 ± 16.4 vs 41.6 ± 11.4 Nm; P = .002), and elbow flexion torque (46.4 ± 12.0 vs 29.5 ± 6.8 Nm; P < .001) compared with the overall slow group. A multiregression model for ball velocity based on maximum joint and segment angular velocities and anthropometrics predicted 53.0% of variance.

Conclusion:

High school pitchers with higher maximum joint and segment velocities, irrespective of sequence, demonstrated older age and faster ball velocity at the cost of increased throwing shoulder and elbow kinetics.

Clinical Relevance:

Pitchers and coaching staff should consider this trade-off between faster ball velocity and increasing throwing arm kinetics, an established risk factor for elbow injury.
ECMO in severe hypoxemia post liver transplant for hepatopulmonary syndrome
Authors: Barrueco-Francioni Jesús Emilio , Martínez-González María Carmen , Martínez-Carmona Juan Francisco , Benítez-Moreno María Palma , Aragón-González Cesar , Herrera-Gutiérrez Manuel Enrique
Published: September 2024

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) poses a significant challenge in liver transplant patients, affecting between 10% and 30% of candidates. Historically, HPS was considered a contraindication for liver transplantation due to its association with high mortality rates. However, recent studies have shown improvements in pulmonary function post-transplant, leading to the inclusion of these patients as candidates. Despite this progress, approximately one-fifth of liver transplant recipients develop severe postoperative hypoxia, further complicating their clinical course and contributing to increased mortality. The management of post-transplant HPS involves various strategies, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), although its use remains infrequently reported. Theoretical models suggest that oxygenation typically improves within 10 days post-transplant, while resolution of HPS may take 6–12 months, making ECMO an attractive possibility as a bridge to recovery in this population. We present a case were ECMO was used in this context.
Lyme Disease and Papilledema: A Retrospective Study on Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes
Authors: Vithayathil Joseph , Virupakshaiah Akash , Liu Geraldine , Swami Sanjeev K. , Avery Robert A. , Liu Grant T. , McGuire Jennifer L.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Describe the clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and outcome data of children with papilledema associated with Lyme disease at a large tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of children 1-18 years old who received care at our institution between 1995 and 2019 with concurrent diagnoses of papilledema and Lyme disease. Data were abstracted from records and prospective family surveys.

Results

Among 44 children included (median age 9.7 years), 66% (29/44) had additional cranial neuropathies, and 78% (32/41) had cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis. All children were treated with antibiotics (39% oral, 55% intravenous, 7% both); 61% (27/44) were also treated with oral acetazolamide. Symptoms fully resolved in 86% (30/35) of children with follow-up data. Proportion recovered did not significantly differ by antibiotic administration route or presence/absence of cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis.

Conclusions

Papilledema in Lyme disease may occur with or without cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis. Most children recover without residual deficits following treatment, although exceptions exist.
Cervical precancer and invasive cancer among women living with HIV in Latin America: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fernández-Deaza Ginna , Negrete-Tobar Gabriela , Caicedo María , Téllez Nicolás , Mello Maeve B , Ghidinelli Massimo , Nuche-Berenguer Bernardo , Murillo Raúl
Published: September 2024

Background

Data on the occurrence of cervical precancer and cancer among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in Latin American countries (LAC) are scarce and highly heterogeneous.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review summarizing data about the incidence/prevalence of invasive cervical cancer (CC) and high-grade precancerous lesions among WLHIV in LAC. Literature in PubMed and LILACS was searched. The primary outcome was invasive cancer incidence, and prevalence of high-grade lesions as key indicators for the WHO CC elimination strategy. Individual reports on invasive cancer incidence and prevalence of precancerous lesions were obtained, and a random effects meta-analysis was conducted for the latter.

Results

In total, 34,343 WLHIV from four studies reporting CC incidence in seven LAC were included, and 6079 WLHIV from 17 studies reporting prevalence of precancerous lesions in three LAC were included. CC incidence ranged between 136.0 and 398.4 per 100,000 WLHIV (with or without antiretroviral therapy). The weighted prevalence of high-grade lesions was 4.1% (95%CI: 3.8%–6.0%) with a double peak at ages 20–24 and 35–39 years. Differences in prevalence of high-grade lesions were also observed by screening approach: co-testing (11.9%), colposcopy (6.0%), cytology (4.2%), and HPV tests (3.2%).

Conclusions

The high incidence of invasive cancer and prevalence of high-grade lesions underline challenges to reach the WHO’s elimination goal of CC incidence below four per 100,000 among WLHIV. Moreover, the high prevalence of high-grade lesions at younger ages than in the general population is a call to accelerate the implementation of the new WHO screening recommendations in WLHIV.
Statistical Learning Facilitates Access to Awareness
Authors: Xu Luzi , Paffen Chris L. E. , Van der Stigchel Stefan , Gayet Surya
Published: September 2024

Statistical learning is a powerful mechanism that enables the rapid extraction of regularities from sensory inputs. Although numerous studies have established that statistical learning serves a wide range of cognitive functions, it remains unknown whether statistical learning impacts conscious access. To address this question, we applied multiple paradigms in a series of experiments ( N = 153 adults): Two reaction-time-based breaking continuous flash suppression (b-CFS) experiments showed that probable objects break through suppression faster than improbable objects. A preregistered accuracy-based b-CFS experiment showed higher localization accuracy for suppressed probable (versus improbable) objects under identical presentation durations, thereby excluding the possibility of processing differences emerging after conscious access (e.g., criterion shifts). Consistent with these findings, a supplemental visual-masking experiment reaffirmed higher localization sensitivity to probable objects over improbable objects. Together, these findings demonstrate that statistical learning alters the competition for scarce conscious resources, thereby potentially contributing to established effects of statistical learning on higher-level cognitive processes that require consciousness.
Similar Survival But Less Chronic GVHD in Antithymocyte Globulin–Based Myeloablative Haploidentical Transplant Compared With Matched Sibling Transplant for Adult T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma
Authors: Gu Zhenyang , Li Fei , Li Meng , Zhang Linlin , Xu Sai , Wang Lu , Wang Lili , Jing Yu , Bo Jian , Gao Chunji , Dou Liping , Liu Daihong
Published: September 2024

The annual number of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-haploidentical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HCT) is increasing steadily. Comparative studies about haplo-HCT versus HCT with HLA-matched sibling donors (MSD-HCT) have been tried in acute myeloid leukemia and B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (ALL). Few studies were reported in adult T-cell ALL (T-ALL). In this retrospective study, a total of 88 consecutive patients with T-ALL were enrolled who underwent MSD-HCT ( n = 24) and haplo-HCT ( n = 64) with antithymocyte globulin (ATG)-based graft versus host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis between 2010 and 2022. Median follow-up for survivors was similar (43.5 [range: 7–88] months for MSD-HCT versus 43.5 (range: 6–144) months in the Haplo-HCT group). The 100-day cumulative incidence of grade II to IV acute GVHD (aGVHD) was similar, 33% (95% confidence interval [CI], 16%–52%) after MSD-HCT versus 44% (95% CI, 31%–55%) after haplo-HCT, P = 0.52. The cumulative incidences of grade III–IV aGVHD were 8% (95% CI, 1%–23%) in the MSD-HCT group and 5% (95% CI, 1%–12%) in the haplo-HCT group ( P = 0.50). The 2-year cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD (limited and extensive) in the haplo-HCT, 11% (95% CI, 5%–20%) was significantly lower than that in the MSD-HCT group (42% [95% CI, 21%–62%], P = 0.002). The cumulative incidence of 4-year relapse rates (44% versus 37%, P = 0.56) and non-relapse mortality (7% versus 21%, P = 0.08) did not differ between these two groups. There were also no differences in 4-year overall survival (46% versus 47%, P = 0.44) and progression-free survival (49% versus 42%, P = 0.45) between these two groups. On multivariate analysis, using busulfan/fludarabine (BU/Flu) conditioning regimen was found to be associated with worse clinical outcome. Our results suggested that ATG-based haplo-HCT platform could work as an alternative to MSD-HCT for adult patients with T-ALL. Compared with MSD-HCT, haplo-HCT might carry a low risk for cGVHD.
Re-reading the Story of Hagar From a Nias Bride’s Perspective
Authors: Zaluchu Sonny Eli
Published: September 2024

Nias women are an essential part of the social life of the Nias people, a tribe that occupies the outer islands of western Sumatra. As patriarchal customs and culture strongly govern women in communities, there are crucial issues regarding the position, function, and existence of Nias women who, on the one hand, are honored but, on the other hand, are treated as servants in the household. This article will re-read the story of Hagar in the Old Testament from the perspective of the marital life of Nias women. This reading is critical not only in identifying the root of the problem but also in providing lessons from a biblical perspective on how to survive in the oppressive patriarchal environment of a society. Using narrative analysis of the Old Testament text of Hagar, it is concluded that the Nias bride is a modern portrait of Hagar’s story in a patriarchal circle. In an unchangeable situation, Nias women must have resilience like Hagar to survive and continue to fight for their fundamental rights.
Patriarchy, Dominance and Liberation: A Self-discovery in Anita Nair’s Lessons in Forgetting
Authors: Yadav Shalini , Rohitashwani
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this research study is to examine the feminism-related aspects of Anita Nair’s Lessons in Forgetting. It discusses a variety of issues that the female characters in the book deal with, including female feticide, gender discrimination, love and dependence on family members. It also provides a brief explanation of how these issues are resolved so that the characters can move on with their lives. According to the title, women forget the lessons they were taught in order to live the life they want. Feminism is based on happiness and expectations rather than anxieties and sadness. Struggling against patriarchal culture has become dated because women have forged ahead unafraid to improve things in their own manner. The main protagonist Meera and other female characters use it as a tool to consider what would happen following their husbands’ betrayal. Due to male-controlled norms in India, a traditional and conservative nation, women have never been given the respect they deserve. They have been taught that the pains and joys of others determine their worth. The perspectives of their goals and aspirations are framed by their moral and ethical commitments. The study has made an effort to identify feminism-related components in novels that shed light on certain significant issues related to women’s ongoing struggles against the misery, abuse and trauma that they experience as a result of the male-dominated conservative culture. The freedom of the woman to fulfil her different conventional responsibilities as a daughter, wife, mother and other things is explored in Nair. The concept of selfdiscovery, which is central to her works, is also addressed in this study.
The Body as a Battlefield: A Feminist Interpretation of Mulan as a Source of Theology in the Face of Gender-Based Violence
Authors: Tendenan Vani
Published: September 2024

This study delves into the intricate interplay between cinema, theology, and gender-based violence through a feminist lens. It centers on the film Mulan as a unique source of theological reflection in addressing cases of gender-based violence. The title, “The Body as a Battlefield,” encapsulates the core theme of this research, emphasizing the body as a contested terrain where power dynamics and societal norms converge. Through a meticulous feminist interpretation of the film, we explore how Mulan’s narrative challenges traditional gender roles, illuminates the resilience of the female body, and offers a fresh perspective on theological discourse. By bridging the realms of film analysis, feminist theology, and social justice, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how popular culture can serve as a resource for theological engagement in the pursuit of gender equality and the eradication of gender-based violence.
How Do National Cultural Differences Affect Cross-Border Acquisitions? Cultural Dimensions, Learning From Supply Chain Partners, and Post-Acquisition Performance
Authors: Yu Jisun , Lee Kyunghee , Han Kunsoo , Cantor David E
Published: September 2024

This research examines how national cultural differences between the acquirer and target firms affect post-acquisition performance in cross-border acquisitions. We focus on two dimensions of national culture—individualism/collectivism (IDV) and power distance (PDI)—for their close relevance to structural changes that occur during post-acquisition integration. We find that while differences in PDI are negatively associated with post-acquisition performance, differences in IDV positively affect such performance. We also find that the acquirer's cultural learning from supply chain partners helps mitigate the negative impact of PDI differences on post-acquisition performance, especially when the partner has a similar national culture in PDI to the target. Our theoretical development and empirical findings contribute to the operations and supply chain management research by illuminating the differential effects of national cultural differences on post-acquisition integration outcomes. Also, our study sheds new light on the possibility that working with supply chain partners may provide an opportunity for cultural learning that can be utilized in a post-acquisition integration setting.
The Missing Engineering Discipline in Cybersecurity: Human Factors Engineering
Authors: Nobles Calvin , Robinson Nikki
Published: September 2024

Human factors remain the most critical vulnerability in cybersecurity, with many breaches involving human errors or social engineering. Integrating human factors engineering (HFE) into cybersecurity strategies is crucial for addressing these vulnerabilities and enhancing security resilience. Despite its importance, HFE is not widely recognized as an engineering discipline in cybersecurity, and many educational programs lack dedicated courses on human factors. Academic institutions, cybersecurity professionals, and federal agencies must advocate for incorporating HFE into cybersecurity curricula to prepare professionals with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and its impact on security, ultimately leading to more robust and resilient cybersecurity practices.
All You Need is Data: A Multimodal Approach in Understanding Driver Behavior
Authors: Kwakye Kelvin , Seong Younho , Yi Sun , Aboah Armstrong
Published: September 2024

Despite advancements in vehicle safety and driving aids, road traffic accidents remain a major issue globally, largely due to human error. A comprehensive understanding of driver behavior, particularly in recognizing unsafe practices, is essential for reducing accidents and enhancing road safety. However, the complexity of human behavior and the variability of driving conditions complicate this task. Traditional methods of driver behavior analysis often rely on limited sources such as video feeds or vehicle telemetry. In contrast, the adoption of multimodal data analysis, which incorporates diverse data types like images, text, audio, depth, thermal, and IMU data, offers a richer perspective on the driving environment. This study employs multimodal embedded learning to analyze these data sources, resulting in a deeper, more holistic insight into driver behavior. The findings suggest that this comprehensive approach can significantly improve the prediction and prevention of unsafe driving practices by integrating various indicators of potential hazards.
Compromise in Human-Robot Collaboration for Threat Assessment
Authors: Matthews Gerald , Cumings Ryon , Casey James , Panganiban April Rose , Chella Antonio , Pipitone Arianna , Lin Jinchao , Mouloua Mustapha
Published: September 2024

Advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) will produce “reasonable disagreements” between human operators and machine partners. A simulation study investigated factors that may influence compromise between human and robot partners when they disagree in situation evaluation. Eighty-seven participants viewed urban scenes and interacted with a robot partner to make a threat assessment. We explored the impacts of multiple factors on threat ratings and trust, including how the robot communicated with the person, and whether or not the robot compromised following dialogue. Results showed that participants were open to compromise with the robot, especially when the robot detected threat in a seemingly safe scene. Unexpectedly, dialogue with the robot and hearing robot inner speech reduced compromise and trust, relative to control conditions providing transparency or signaling benevolence. Dialogue may change the human’s perception of the robot’s role in the team, indicating a design challenge for design of future systems.
Driver Behavior in Response to Forward Collision Warnings Considering Driving Context
Authors: Zhao Zhouqiao , Pipkorn Linda , Mehler Bruce , Reimer Bryan , Gershon Pnina
Published: September 2024

Forward collision warnings (FCW) are designed to warn drivers of potential collisions, but their effectiveness may vary based on driving conditions and driver responses. This study investigated driver behavior in response to real-world FCW alerts across various driving contexts with the aims of evaluating the prevalence and characteristics of FCW events, i.e., examining how often these events occur, their severity, and the contexts in which they happen. The current analysis considered driver responses to FCW events, including changes in vehicle kinematics, visual attention, and hand-on-wheel behavior. Findings suggest that lower-severity FCWs are more common on local roads and associated with adjacent vehicles, while higher-severity FCWs were observed to be more frequent on highways and in the presence of lead vehicles. The study highlights the potential value of integrating more advanced contextual information into FCW systems to enhance performance and reduce unnecessary alerts.
Naturalistic Analysis of Bidirectional Gazing During Vehicle-Pedestrian Encounters at Road Crossings
Authors: Pipkorn Linda , Noonan Thomas Zach , Domeyer Joshua , Mehler Bruce , Reimer Bryan , Gershon Pnina
Published: September 2024

This study quantifies bidirectional gazing—when drivers and pedestrians look at one another—in a naturalistic setting. Understanding bidirectional gazing provides insights into the communication dynamics between pedestrians and drivers, and their relation to infrastructural support (e.g., a stop sign). Findings demonstrate that 36% of observed road crossings included at least one bidirectional glance. There was a tendency for bidirectional gazing to be more prevalent (especially early in encounters) and longer for crossing types with less infrastructural support, such as undesignated crossings. This suggests that when pedestrians lack infrastructural support and are farther away from the lane, drivers and pedestrians rely more on visual communication (looking at each other) to determine things like gap size, trajectory, speed, and distance. However, when pedestrians are closer to the lane, we find similar gaze patterns across the crossing types, which may suggest another gaze-behavior type (e.g., checking if it is safe to cross).
Behave Yourself! Behavioral Indicators of Trust in Human-Agent Teams
Authors: Carmody Kendall , Sharma Vivek , Addis Arianna , Nguyen Daniel , Ficke Cherrise , Thayer Amanda , Wildman Jessica , Carroll Meredith
Published: September 2024

As advancements in artificial intelligence accelerate, there is a rise in the complexity and number of autonomous agents placed in human-agent teams (HATs). With this expansion, it is important to understand how trust in agent teammates evolves and is influenced by contextual events. In support of this, significant research has focused on the factors that influence human trust in an agent and elements that negatively impact this trust. In this research, human trust in agent teammates is typically measured via self-report surveys. Although a reliable format, surveys are not without limitations, as they can be disruptive and lack the temporal resolution needed to capture nuanced and dynamic changes in trust. As a result, researchers are adopting alternative measurement approaches that aim to unobtrusively capture measures that correlate with trust using behavioral and physiological sensors that capture measures such as voice pitch and eye tracking. However, most of these studies utilize only one unobtrusive measure, which can be indicative of various states (e.g., heart rate varies with psychological and physical responses). Given the lack of selectivity in such measures, it may be necessary to utilize multiple unobtrusive measures at once, such as real-time recorded behavioral indicators, to effectively capture changes in these indicators that are due to changes in trust over time. This paper investigated the following research questions: (1) do multiple unobtrusive indicators provide a more holistic picture of trust compared to a single behavioral indicator, and (2) are certain behavioral indicators more indicative of self-reported trust at different times during a mission (e.g., before/after a trust violation event)? Results indicated that following a significant event, changes in self-reported trust are associated with specific behaviors related to improving or mitigating perceived deficiencies in their agent teammates. These insights highlight the opportunity to integrate dynamic behavioral measures in trust assessment frameworks, specifically in scenarios where a significant event compromises trust.
A Retrospective Study on the Clinical Characteristics and Computed Tomography, Biochemical, and Blood Parameters of Duodenal Papillary Diseases
Authors: Wang Ning , Wei Wenyan , Qu Xianguo , Fang Jinyan , Mo Weixing , Li Qinghai
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study was conducted to investigate the imaging information, laboratory data, and clinical characteristics of duodenal papillary malignancies, aiming to contribute to the early diagnosis of these diseases.

Methods

The clinical characteristics, laboratory data, and computed tomography (CT) findings of 17 patients with adenoma of the major duodenal papilla (the adenoma group) and 58 patients with cancer of the major duodenal papilla (the cancer group) were retrospectively analyzed. The measurement data were analyzed using t test and expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The counting data were analyzed using the χ2 test and expressed in n (%). Pearson correlation analysis was also conducted, and a scatter plot was drawn.

Results

There were significant differences in the diameter, shape, margin, and target sign of the major duodenal papilla, pancreatic duct diameter, common bile duct diameter, enhancement uniformity, fever, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, carcinoembryonic antigen, carbohydrate antigen 19-9, and jaundice between the adenoma group and the cancer group ( P < .01). The enhancement magnitude of the duodenal papilla was correlated with the lesion size, and the venous phase CT value of the enhanced scan was correlated with the duodenal papilla diameter ( P < .05). Additionally, 12 patients in the cancer group suffered from malignant transformation of adenomas.

Conclusion

Firstly, CT is of high value in the diagnosis of duodenal papilla diseases. Secondly, the enhancement magnitude of the duodenal papilla is correlated with the lesion size. Thirdly, patients with duodenal papilla adenomas have a risk of progression into adenocarcinoma, thereby requiring close follow-up.
Enhancing access to expensive oncology medications in Pakistan: The critical role of pharmaceutical patient assistance programs in oncology care
Authors: Masood Wardah , Bhutta Omar Akhlaq , Rasheed Muhammad Ahsan , Siddiqui Adeel
Published: September 2024

This article aims to explore the access of patient assistance program (PAPs) and the role of pharmacists in improving access to oncology care in Pakistan. PAPs aim to reduce the financial burden of cancer in Pakistan, with pharmaceutical companies providing medication at reduced costs, ranging from 33% to 90%. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in managing these programs, facilitating PAP, pharmacist, oncology care setting, cancer therapy more accessible to those who faced financial barriers to accessing them.