bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mounted Director Element on Dual‐Band Vivaldi Antenna for Wireless Energy Harvesting Application
Authors: Hosseini Saeed , Ghobadi Changiz , Nourinia Javad , Shokri Majid
Published: July 2024

This paper presents radio frequency energy harvesting (RFEH) using a rectenna system for 3.1 and 5.75 GHz frequencies. The antenna used in this work is a Vivaldi antenna with a new structure. Mounting the newly designed parasitic element on the proposed Vivaldi antenna has improved the gain and directivity of the antenna. The parasitic element is introduced as the director element. The arms of the director element are expanded exponentially. We simulated the proposed antenna design in CST Studio Suite and simulated the proposed rectifier in an advanced design system (ADS). The substrates chosen for the antenna and rectifier are of low‐cost type. We have used the voltage doubler technique for the rectifier. Good impedance matching using two stubs has made it possible to connect the rectifier to the antenna. We obtained RF to DC measurement results for the proposed design, which are 56.3% for 3.1 GHz at 8.5 dBm input power and 33.4% for 5.75 GHz at 6.5 dBm input power, respectively. After combining the antenna and the rectifier, the maximum efficiency measured for the power input of 5 dBm at the frequency of 3.1 GHz is equal to 50.8%, which is suitable for energy harvesting.
Thermal Ammonia Decomposition for Hydrogen‐Rich Fuel Production and the Role of Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Shafie Payam , DeChamplain Alain , Lepine Julien
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen is an attractive future fuel with the potential to play a crucial role in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, but the major obstacles to implement hydrogen are associated with its storage, transportation, and safety. As a solution, ammonia has been recognized as a promising carbon‐free hydrogen carrier; however, due to the poor combustion performance of ammonia fuel, this review first outlines the significance of on‐site ammonia decomposition to generate COx‐free H2‐rich fuel. Furthermore, to demonstrate the potential of this approach in different fields, the main focus of this review is on the pivotal role of integrating waste heat recovery and thermal ammonia decomposition across various industries including power plants, transportation, and industrial furnaces, enabling researchers to gain insights and benefit from the work of each other. As a means to enhance fuel saving and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, two significant methods including thermochemical recuperation and autothermal reforming are investigated considering the impact of several factors like exhaust gas species, temperature, and the performance parameters of the main fuel consumers. Finally, the paper provides vital recommendations for research directions in waste heat recovery‐based ammonia decomposition systems to promote sustainable and eco‐friendly solutions applicable to various industries. These include but are not limited to conducting life cycle analyses considering green ammonia, optimization of the independency level for the decomposition system, and integrating it with various components such as dual‐fuel engines, hydrogen purification, solar energy, and fuel cells.
Association between Pandemic of COVID‐19 and Influenza Vaccine Take‐Up in 2020–2021 in Maine et Loire (France)
Authors: Abline Juliette , Chaslerie Anicet , Fabre Emmanüele , Heymans Alain , Artarit Pascal , Faure Sébastien , Legeay Samuel
Published: July 2024

Background. Take‐up of the influenza (flu) vaccination in France is assessed every year by Santé publique France (SPF), a national health agency. In 2020, the pandemic of COVID‐19 took place all over the world. With several symptoms known to be similar between flu and COVID‐19, we expected to observe a positive association with people’s choice to also take the flu vaccine injection. Methods. Data regarding the flu vaccination for people aged 65 and over were extracted from the French National Health Data System (Système National des Données de Santé—SNDS). A noninterventional multicenter survey in the Department of Maine et Loire, an area in the west of France, was used for assessing the effect of COVID‐19 on vaccination intention. Results. The flu vaccine take‐up (Maine et Loire, France), among people aged 65 and over, improved since 2017 (54.36% in 2017–18 vs 58.12% in 2020–21). In 2020–21 (concomitant with the COVID‐19 pandemic), people got vaccinated earlier than the previous year (peak in weeks 1–2 vs peak in weeks 5–6 in previous campaigns), before a shortage of doses interrupted the 2020–21 campaign. Of the 211 people who answered the survey among the 232 for whom it was proposed, 175 were vaccinated during the 2020–21 flu vaccine campaign. Among them, 29.12% declared they were aware of COVID‐19 when receiving the flu vaccine. The most cited reason for taking the vaccination was the need to feel safe from the influenza virus; the second was “awareness of the fact that a virus can be contagious and deadly.” Conclusion. Our study highlights the COVID‐19 association perceived by the elderly population (Maine et Loire) on flu vaccination rates. Despite having human consequences, the COVID‐19 pandemic seems to be beneficial to flu vaccine take‐up and may positively change people’s beliefs and behaviors towards flu vaccination.
Supplementary Video S3 from CrosstalkNet: A Visualization Tool for Differential Co-expression Networks and Communities
Authors: Manem Venkata , Adam George Alexandru , Gruosso Tina , Gigoux Mathieu , Bertos Nicholas , Park Morag , Haibe-Kains Benjamin
Published: July 2024

This video presents on how to view arbitrarily many levels of neighbors in the co-expression network.
Supplementary Video S2 from CrosstalkNet: A Visualization Tool for Differential Co-expression Networks and Communities
Authors: Manem Venkata , Adam George Alexandru , Gruosso Tina , Gigoux Mathieu , Bertos Nicholas , Park Morag , Haibe-Kains Benjamin
Published: July 2024

This video presents on how to upload a network file, view first, second neighbors, filter interactions based on the strength of the co-expression relationship, download the networks as images and interactions in a CSV format.
Data from An Accessible Proteogenomics Informatics Resource for Cancer Researchers
Authors: Chambers Matthew C. , Jagtap Pratik D. , Johnson James E. , McGowan Thomas , Kumar Praveen , Onsongo Getiria , Guerrero Candace R. , Barsnes Harald , Vaudel Marc , Martens Lennart , Grüning Björn , Cooke Ira R. , Heydarian Mohammad , Reddy Karen L. , Griffin Timothy J.
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Proteogenomics has emerged as a valuable approach in cancer research, which integrates genomic and transcriptomic data with mass spectrometry–based proteomics data to directly identify expressed, variant protein sequences that may have functional roles in cancer. This approach is computationally intensive, requiring integration of disparate software tools into sophisticated workflows, challenging its adoption by nonexpert, bench scientists. To address this need, we have developed an extensible, Galaxy-based resource aimed at providing more researchers access to, and training in, proteogenomic informatics. Our resource brings together software from several leading research groups to address two foundational aspects of proteogenomics: (i) generation of customized, annotated protein sequence databases from RNA-Seq data; and (ii) accurate matching of tandem mass spectrometry data to putative variants, followed by filtering to confirm their novelty. Directions for accessing software tools and workflows, along with instructional documentation, can be found at z.umn.edu/canresgithub. Cancer Res; 77(21); e43–46. ©2017 AACR.
Spatial Transcriptome Mapping of the Desmoplastic Growth Pattern of Colorectal Liver Metastases by In Situ Sequencing Reveals a Biologically Relevant Zonation of the Desmoplastic Rim
Authors: Andersson Axel , Escriva Conde Maria , Surova Olga , Vermeulen Peter , Wählby Carolina , Nilsson Mats , Nyström Hanna
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

We describe the fibrotic rim formed in the desmoplastic histopathologic growth pattern (DHGP) of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CLM) using in situ sequencing (ISS). The origin of the desmoplastic rim is still a matter of debate, and the detailed cellular organization has not yet been fully elucidated. Understanding the biology of the DHGP in CLM can lead to targeted treatment and improve survival.

Experimental Design:

We used ISS, targeting 150 genes, to characterize the desmoplastic rim by unsupervised clustering of gene coexpression patterns. The cohort comprised 10 chemo-naïve liver metastasis resection samples with a DHGP.

Results:

Unsupervised clustering of spatially mapped genes revealed molecular and cellular diversity within the desmoplastic rim. We confirmed the presence of the ductular reaction and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Importantly, we discovered angiogenesis and outer and inner zonation in the rim, characterized by nerve growth factor receptor and periostin expression.

Conclusions:

ISS enabled the analysis of the cellular organization of the fibrous rim surrounding CLM with a DHGP and suggests a transition from the outer part of the rim, with nonspecific liver injury response, into the inner part, with gene expression indicating collagen synthesis and extracellular matrix remodeling influenced by the interaction with cancer cells, creating a cancer cell–supportive environment. Moreover, we found angiogenic processes in the rim. Our results provide a potential explanation of the origin of the rim in DHGP and lead to exploring novel targeted treatments for patients with CLM to improve survival.
Perfil do estudante e qualidade de vida: considerações a partir de uma investigação nos cursos de medicina e enfermagem de duas universidades em Minas Gerais
Authors: Peres Marcelo Vieira , Costa Bruna Eduarda Ribeiro , Cardoso de Sá Stephanie Oliveira , Carvalho Marco Túlio Menezes Carvalho , Ladeira Pietra Giovanna Cabral , Bacelar Mariana Guedes Lopes , Alves Mateus Goulart
Published: July 2024

Entering academic life is often accompanied by new and increased responsibilities, activities, and demands. Especially in courses focused on healthcare, such as Medicine and Nursing, the workload is typically extensive, and the pressure of dealing with human lives can make this phase challenging for many students. Consequently, the result is often a shift in the lifestyle of these individuals, who, finding themselves with less time, more stressed and tired, struggle to maintain a routine with healthy habits. Thus, during this period, inadequate nutrition, sedentary behavior, and irregular sleep are frequently observed; practices that often persist into adulthood. The objective of this study is to analyze the demographic, clinical, and psychosocial profile of this group, identifying crucial nuances for the implementation of care and the promotion of a healthier academic life. This is an analytical, quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted in higher education institutions in a city in the interior of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The target audience was students enrolled in Nursing and Medicine courses who underwent data collection through a validated and authorized structured instrument for demographic, clinical, behavioral, and psychosocial characterization. The study obtained a final sample of 86 participants. Among them, 8% had hypertension, 2% had diabetes mellitus, and 35% had some mental illness. Additionally, 48% were alcohol consumers, 7% were smokers, and 26% were sedentary. Finally, 66% of the participants reported having a stressful life, and 42% did not have a healthy diet. In light of the above, it is evident that university routines can negatively impact various aspects of students' lives, both physical and mental. Therefore, it is indisputable to pay attention to this scenario and seek strategies for care and promotion of a healthier academic life.
Avanços e desafios da política nacional de cuidados paliativos no Brasil
Authors: Andrade João Vitor , Souza Juliana Cristina Martins de
Published: July 2024

Dear Editor and readers, Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life of patients and their families facing serious illness, preventing and relieving suffering through early identification and treatment of pain and physical, psychosocial and spiritual problems. In Brazil, where the need for such care is alarming, approximately one million Brazilians need palliative care, but the supply is insufficient. Most services are concentrated in large urban centers, leaving many people without the necessary support, facing pain that could be mitigated with adequate treatment. The promulgation of Ordinance GM No. 3681, which establishes the National Palliative Care Policy in the Unified Health System (SUS), represents a significant step in the regulation and expansion of this care, providing a legal basis for the development of specialized services. In order to effectively implement the National Palliative Care Policy, several challenges need to be overcome, including training health professionals and combating the stigma related to this care. Currently, there is a significant gap in the training of doctors and other professionals in palliative care, resulting in inadequate assistance. The policy provides for the implementation of palliative care by matrix and care teams throughout the country, but it is crucial to increase investment in material, technological and educational resources. Only with a joint effort by managers, health professionals and civil society will it be possible to guarantee dignified and humanized care for all patients in need of palliative care in Brazil.
Addressing the Evidence Gap in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Need for a Pragmatic Randomized Trial Platform
Authors: Kamel Hooman , Suarez Jose I. , Connolly E. Sander , Amin-Hanjani Sepideh , Mack William T. , Chou Sherry Hsiang-Yi , Busl Katharina M. , Derdeyn Colin P. , Dangayach Neha S. , Elm Jordan E. , Beall Jonathan , Ko Nerissa U.
Published: July 2024

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) occurs less often than other stroke types but affects younger patients, imposing a disproportionately high burden of long-term disability. Although management advances have improved outcomes over time, relatively few aSAH treatments have been tested in randomized clinical trials (RCTs). One lesson learned from COVID-19 is that trial platforms can facilitate the efficient execution of multicenter RCTs even in complex diseases during challenging conditions. An aSAH trial platform with standardized eligibility criteria, randomization procedures, and end point definitions would enable the study of multiple targeted interventions in a perpetual manner, with treatments entering and leaving the platform based on predefined decision algorithms. An umbrella institutional review board protocol and clinical trial agreement would allow individual arms to be efficiently added as amendments rather than stand-alone protocols. Standardized case report forms using the National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke common data elements and general protocol standardization across arms would create synergies for data management and monitoring. A Bayesian analysis framework would emphasize frequent interim looks to enable early termination of trial arms for futility, common controls, borrowing of information across arms, and adaptive designs. A protocol development committee would assist investigators and encourage pragmatic designs to maximize generalizability, reduce site burden, and execute trials efficiently and cost-effectively. Despite decades of steady clinical progress in the management of aSAH, poor patient outcomes remain common, and despite the increasing availability of RCT data in other fields, it remains difficult to perform RCTs to guide more effective care for aSAH. The development of a platform for pragmatic RCTs in aSAH would help close the evidence gap between aSAH and other stroke types and improve outcomes for this important disease with its disproportionate public health burden.
Descriptions of larvae of four mainly DNA barcode-matched species of chlorocyphids from south-east Asia (Odonata: Chlorocyphidae) with notes on the generic and species level larval identification of Oriental region members of the family.
Authors: ORR ALBERT G.W. , DOW RORY A. , STEINHOFF PHILIP O.M.
Published: July 2024

The final stadium larvae of the following four species of south-east Asian Chlorocyphidae are described and compared: Aristocypha fenestrella (Rambur), Heliocypha biseriata (Selys), Libellago hyalina (Selys) and Sundacypha petiolata (Selys), including both sexes for the latter two species. Excepting one L. hyalina specimen from Brunei, identified by supposition based on habitat, all specimens were identified by comparing and matching the mitochondrial marker COI with that of known adult specimens from Sarawak, Brunei and several localities throughout tropical Asia. The specimens presented close matches with all adults in this gene. An assessment of the efficacy of this method of identification is provided, noting that in some cases close species cannot be separated by bar-code matching and ultimate determination is partially based on known distributions of adults. Some aspects of the relationships among genera revealed by the genetic analyses are also discussed. In addition, an exuvia of Libellago lineata (Burmeister) from northern Thailand, identified by supposition, is partially described for the purpose of comparison with L. hyalina. For the morphological analysis the unique features of chlorocyphid anatomy are discussed, and some new terminology is introduced. Overall, the morphological analysis revealed numerous clear differences between the four species studied, and comparisons with available literature suggest that some of these may be characteristic of their genera. It is also evident that in some cases clear interspecific differences occur within genera. It is however concluded that a generic level larval key for the Oriental region Chlorocyphidae based on morphology may never be attainable, although local generic or even species level keys addressing the fauna of limited geographic areas may be possible in many places, especially as the larvae of more species come to be known and described in detail.
Identifying gaps in communication skills between pharmacy curricula and pharmacy practice
Authors: Sawicki Sean , Brandt Maravent Stacey
Published: July 2024

Background:

Students are required to complete a minimum of 150 hours, respectively, in both community and health system introductory pharmacy practice experience (IPPE) rotations as part of a PharmD programme completion in the USA. The goal is to introduce students to medication use processes; patient and provider communication; interprofessional team dynamics, and inpatient and outpatient healthcare delivery.

Context and Objective:

Experiential learning environments offer pharmacy students exposure to interactions with patients, pharmacy technicians, suppliers, practitioners and insurance companies. However, an experience gap appears when graduating pharmacy students enter their careers as licenced pharmacists. This study sought to understand this gap and to provide pharmacy schools with insight so that they can better equip future pharmacists with the tools needed for successful pharmacy communication in practice.

Method:

A total of 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted with pharmacists ( N = 14) in various healthcare settings in Florida, USA: community pharmacy, ambulatory care, health system pharmacy and long-term care/mail order environments. Content and thematic analyses were conducted to identify themes in the data.

Results:

Three overarching themes were developed: staff, management and operations; communicating with healthcare providers; and counselling patients. In addition, the pharmacists offered recommendations pertaining to topics that could be included in curriculum updates.

Conclusion:

The themes developed from the study highlight competencies that pharmacists had to learn in the field. There are skills that pharmacists need to practise effectively in their area of pharmacy that their pharmacy schools failed to prepare them for. The analysis will be useful to pharmacy schools seeking to update their curriculum to reflect common practices in different areas of pharmacy and ultimately to better prepare their students for future careers.
For Such a Time as This: Community Members as Architects of Imagination in Teacher Education Reform
Authors: Zygmunt Eva , Scaife Wilisha ,   With the Architects of Imagination
Published: July 2024

The narrative woven throughout this article elevates the persistence, perseverance, resilience, and resolve of a neighborhood anchored in faith, and fiercely devoted to its children. Contextualized through its rich history of mobilization for social justice, this story uplifts and defends the cultural wealth of a historically marginalized community as an imperative element of children’s education and as a critical cognizance for those aspiring to become teachers. An exemplar in self-determinism, the narrative, elevates how neighbors’ voice and vision propel innovation in the dynamics of university/community collaboration. Ultimately, the article challenges traditional power structures, offering a compelling and justifiable direction for the field of educator preparation.
Contextual Embeddings in Sociological Research: Expanding the Analysis of Sentiment and Social Dynamics
Authors: Mostafavi Moeen , Porter Michael D. , Robinson Dawn T.
Published: July 2024

The authors introduce BERTNN (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers Neural Network), a novel methodology designed to expand affective lexicons, a critical component in sociological research. BERTNN estimates the affective meanings and their distribution for new concepts, bypassing the need for extensive surveys by leveraging their contextual usage in language. The cornerstone of BERTNN is the use of nuanced word embeddings from Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers. BERTNN uniquely encodes words within the framework of synthesized social event sentences, preserving their meaning across actor-behavior-object positions. The model is fine-tuned on the basis of the implied sentiment changes, providing a more refined estimation of affective meanings. BERTNN outperforms previous approaches, setting a new standard in deriving multidimensional affective meanings for novel concepts. It efficiently replicates sentiment ratings that traditionally require extensive survey hours, demonstrating the power of automated modeling in sociological research. The expanded affective lexicons that can be produced with BERTNN cater to shifting cultural meanings and diverse subgroups, demonstrating the potential of computational linguistics to enrich the measurement tools in sociological research. This article underscores the novelty and significance of BERTNN in the broader context of sociological methodology.
An experimentation of hand–arm tremor control using low-g area-changed capacitive micro-accelerometer
Authors: Gomathi K , Sathiyavathi S , Thomas A Tony , Arunkumar V
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to measure the human hand tremor caused by handheld device using a low-g micro-accelerometer. A novel low-g area-changed differential capacitive micro-accelerometer is designed and analyzed using microproduct design software INTELLISUITE 8.6. Thermo-electro-mechanical analysis is conducted for applied acceleration within the low-g range spans between 0 and 10 g. Existing design performances such as displacement and sensitivity are compared with new proposed design. The sensitivity of micro-accelerometer is improved by using U-shaped spring. The designed micro-accelerometer is used to find vibration that exists while using handheld device. Experimentation is done to measure vibration under dissimilar surfaces. The workers are made to drill three different surface blocks namely paver block, solid cement block, and black stone, and vibrations produced are recorded. These accelerations are intended to calculate exposure action value (EAV) and exposure limit value (ELV) for 8 hours of a working day so that worker can halt the work as soon as ELV is accomplished.
Analyzing the Benefits and Limitations of Non-Degree Credentials: The Case of Apprenticeship in Oregon
Authors: Arnold Cameron , Kelly Maura
Published: July 2024

To explore the benefits and limitations of registered apprenticeships for Oregon workers, our research team conducted a survey of Oregon apprentices and analyzed apprenticeship data from the Bureau of Labor and Industries. Our study is driven by credentialization theory and how it relates to the Oregon legislation “Future Ready Oregon” that passed in 2022 which invested $200 million dollars in the trades. In our analysis, we assess access to entering apprenticeship, earnings during and after apprenticeship, completion rates and reasons for leaving apprenticeship, and access to jobs after apprenticeship. We find that there are rewards for those who obtain this type of non-degree credential; however, there are barriers to accessing apprenticeship, especially for those historically excluded from white male-dominated occupations. Ultimately, Future Ready Oregon will help provide access to the trades for people of color and women, but it has limitations for transforming the trades, for example, not directly addressing job site culture.
Association between muscle quality and nutritional status among community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kubo Yuta , Nakashima Daiki , Tomiyama Naoki , Noritake Kento , Yorozuya Kyosuke , Tsubouchi Yoshihito , Iitsuka Terufumi , Fujii Keisuke
Published: July 2024

Background: Decline in muscle quality is associated with poorer health in community-dwelling older adults. Although there is evidence that malnutrition is associated with the decline of muscle quality in older adults, few analyses have considered important factors related to muscle quality. Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between muscle quality and nutritional status in community-dwelling older adults, taking into account muscle mass, muscle strength, and amount of physical activity. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from a health checkup program in Japan. Participants were older adults aged ≥65 years living in the community who participated in the health checkup program. The data collected were echo intensity, scores on the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria, skeletal muscle mass, grip strength, physical activity level, and demographic data. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the association between muscle quality and nutritional status. Results: Data were analyzed for 50 participants (mean age 77.62 years, standard deviation 6.16 years, 78.0% women). Multiple regression analysis showed that nutritional status affected muscle quality even when various factors were taken into account (B = 6.95, β = 0.31, p = 0.04, 95% confidence interval: 0.01–0.62). Conclusion: The observed association suggests that providing nutritional support for older adults living in the community may be a useful strategy to maintain muscle quality.
Exploring the Complexity of Pedestrian Dynamics: Impact of Societal Behaviors and Personal Attributes in Urban Environments
Authors: Rafe Amir , Singleton Patrick A.
Published: July 2024

Pedestrian dynamics in urban environments are influenced by a complex interplay of physical, environmental, social, cultural, psychological, and health-related factors. This study investigates pedestrian dynamics, focusing on the impact of social and cultural factors such as dress codes and gender at the operational decision-making level, and explores how these factors, along with societal norms, values, and practices, shape pedestrian behavior in various facilities. We focus on pedestrian facilities in real-world and experimental contexts in Iran, examining the roles of gender and specific dress codes, including Islamic clothing such as the hijab. Data were gathered from sidewalks and signalized and unsignalized intersections, and during evacuation drills in Iran, using video recordings to capture pedestrian movements and behaviors. We developed and calibrated the culturally informed social force model (CISFM), an extension of the traditional social force model (SFM), to incorporate cultural and social parameters. Our key findings reveal notable disparities in pedestrian behavior based on gender and clothing type, particularly the traditional Iranian Chador and Manteau. Women generally exhibited slower walking speeds, while clothing type significantly influenced group dynamics and awareness of surroundings. The calibrated CISFM showed improved predictive capabilities in various urban settings, except in emergency evacuation scenarios. This research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of pedestrian dynamics, highlighting the need for pedestrian models to integrate cultural and social factors for more accurate and representative simulations, especially in multicultural urban environments.
The End of Love in the Seventeenth Century: Certainty and Uncertainty in Courtship
Authors: Borenberg Paul
Published: July 2024

This article examines the emotional landscape of courtship and engagements in seventeenth-century Sweden. By using a framework by Illouz, understanding courtship as a cultural technique aimed at creating certainty in socially risky situations, the courtship of two women by one student is examined. The analysis moves from the intimate interactions of the couple to the family, the community and lastly the ecclesiastical and university authorities. The article shows that the main sources of uncertainty in the courtship process stemmed from procedural and ontological uncertainty—the order of courtship, the rituals of engagements and the significance of exchanged gifts were not clear, causing confusion and disruption in the courtship process.
Predictors of Depressive Symptoms in Autistic Youth—A Longitudinal Study From the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Disorders (POND) Network: Prédicteurs des symptômes dépressifs chez les jeunes autistes—une étude longitudinale du Réseau des troubles neurodéveloppementaux de la province de l’Ontario (réseau POND)
Authors: Longmore Avery , Anagnostou Evdokia , Georgiages Stelios , Jones Jessica , Kelley Elizabeth , Baribeau Danielle
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify longitudinal predictors of depressive symptoms in autistic children and youth.

Methods

Participants were youth with a diagnosis of autism who were part of the Province of Ontario Neurodevelopmental Disorders Network longitudinal substudy. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the child behaviour checklist (CBCL) affective problems subscale. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the associations between clinical and demographic characteristics at baseline (T1) and clinically elevated depressive symptoms (CEDS) approximately 4 years later (T2).

Results

The mean age of participants ( n = 75) at T1 was 9.8 years ( SD = 2.7) and at T2 was 14.1 years ( SD = 2.8). A total of 37% and 35% of participants had CEDS at T1 and T2, respectively. Additionally, 24% of participants had CEDS at both T1 and T2. T1 characteristics associated with T2 CEDS were: loneliness (OR = 3.0, 95% CI, 1.1 to 8.8), self-harm (OR = 4.0, 95% CI, 1.1 to 16.9), suicidal ideation (OR = 3.9, 95% CI, 1.0 to 16.5), more social and adaptive skills (OR = 0.3, 95% CI, 0.1 to 0.9), elevated restricted and repetitive behaviours (OR = 3.8, 95% CI, 1.3 to 11.6), psychotropic medication use (OR = 3.0, 95% CI, 1.1 to 8.4), attention-deficient/hyperactivity disorder (OR = 2.8, 95% CI, 1.1 to 7.8), and T1 CEDS (OR = 8.8, 95% CI, 3.1 to 27.0) (uncorrected for multiple comparisons). Associations persisted after adjusting for age and intelligence quotient (IQ) differences. Age, sex, IQ, teasing/bullying on the CBCL, family psychiatric history and family income were not associated with T2 CEDS.

Conclusion

Our results highlight both high prevalence and high potential for the persistence of depressive symptoms in autism and emphasize the importance of early support to address loneliness and social participation.
Fluid Resuscitation Dilemma in End-stage Renal Disease Patients Presenting with Sepsis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Khattar Georges , El Gharib Khalil , Pokima Ngowari , Kotys Juliet , Kandala Vineeth , Mina Jonathan , Haddadin Fadi , Abu Baker Saif , Asmar Samer , Rizvi Taqi , Flamenbaum Matthew , Elsayegh Dany , Chalhoub Michel , El Hage Halim , El Sayegh Suzanne
Published: July 2024

Background: This study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of guideline-directed fluid resuscitation (GDFR) compared with conservative fluid management in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with sepsis by evaluating 90-day mortality and intubation rate. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted across multiple databases using specific keywords and controlled vocabulary. The search strategy, implemented until October 1, 2023, aimed to identify studies examining fluid resuscitation in ESRD patients with sepsis. The review process was streamlined using Covidence software. A fourth reviewer resolved discrepancies in study inclusion. A random-effects model with the generic Mantel–Haenszel method was preferred for integrating odds ratios (ORs). Sensitivity analysis and publication bias analysis were performed. Results: Of the 1274 identified studies, 10 were selected for inclusion, examining 1184 patients, 593 of whom received GDFR. Four studies were selected to investigate the intubation rate, including 304 patients. No significant mortality or intubation rate difference was spotted between both groups [OR = 1.23; confidence interval (CI) = 0.92-1.65; I2 = 0% and OR = 1.91; CI = 0.91-4.04]. In most studies, sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out approach revealed higher mortality and intubation rates. The Egger test results indicated no statistically significant publication bias across the included studies. Conclusion: Our research contradicts the common assumption about the effectiveness of GDFR for sepsis patients with ESRD. It suggests that this approach, while not superior to the conservative strategy, may potentially be harmful.
Hand anthropometrics from radiograms of Italian women: A population-specific ergonomic design procedure
Authors: Dal Maso Alberto , Cosmi Francesca
Published: July 2024

To design a comfortable hand support, the population-specific morphological characteristics of human hands must be known. Surface and bone anthropometric data from 177 radiograms of the left hands of an unselected sample of 87 subjects (training set) belonging to the Italian, female population (age 58 ± 12) were collected. Hand Length (HL) and Hand Width (HW) were respectively 172 ± 8 mm and 81 ± 4 mm; Hand Bone Length (HBL) was 179 ± 8 mm. A separate validation set consisting of 25 radiograms from 25 patients belonging to the same population was also collected. Bone and surface measurements were compared to validate the relationships proposed by Kong et al. Their approach applied to the validation set resulted in errors between 3.1% and 8.7%, which is almost as accurate (low bias) but somewhat less precise (higher mean errors) than what found by Kong et al. on their own sample belonging to the Korean population. Two methods were developed to predict the positions of the Metacarpo-phalangeal joints of the Index, Middle, and Ring fingers with reference to the Index-Middle interdigital crotch: method PM, based on the population mean, and method PR, which also considers the Hand Width. The overall average estimation error for method PM is 1.87 mm, while for method PR it is 1.69 mm. Method PR compared to method PM improves the precision by up to 32% in the x direction and 3% in the y direction. Based on these results, a 3D CAD hand model representing the target population was developed, which can be used for the design of population-specific ergonomic medical devices.
The regulator’s trilemma: On the limits of technocratic governance in digital markets
Authors: O'Donovan Nick
Published: July 2024

Policymakers increasingly recognise the need for regulatory intervention in the digital economy to promote competition, privacy and innovation, among other policy objectives. Much policy-focused literature presents regulation as a technical puzzle to be ‘solved’ through identification of the appropriate intervention in a particular context, though there is persistent disagreement among experts about what remedies are preferable in different digital markets. At the same time, many external observers emphasise the sheer multiplicity of public policy objectives that regulatory interventions might fulfil, claiming that conflicts between these objectives are inevitable and thus require political rather than technocratic solutions. This article attempts to bridge the gap between these perspectives through a novel theoretical analysis of digital markets characterised by strong network effects, conceptualising different markets in terms of common underlying structural characteristics. The resulting framework helps policymakers to anticipate which remedies will safeguard competition, privacy and innovation/efficiency under what circumstances, both in well-established digital markets and with respect to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. In so doing, it also highlights limits to the technocratic governance of digital markets, identifying circumstances in which conflicts between competing public values cannot be neatly resolved through technocratic regulatory intervention alone.
Does career optimism facilitate entry into university and professional employment? A longitudinal examination of Australian data
Authors: Sikora Joanna
Published: July 2024

While interest in career optimism has grown steadily in the last 15 years, most of its investigations rely on cross-sectional convenience samples that prevent exploring how earlier optimism matters for later educational and vocational outcomes. To address this issue, I use structural equation modelling to assess measurement invariance and the impact of career optimism at ages 20, 23 and 26 in a nationally representative sample of 2900 young Australians. A three-item measure of career optimism shows metric but not scalar invariance across young adulthood, meaning that while optimism's components remain the same, their levels fluctuate. Optimism helps young adults enrol in a university and enter professional employment by age 26. However, the positive impact of career optimism partly reflects the variation in youths’ socioeconomic backgrounds. Thus, future studies of career optimism should consider if some individuals tend to be more optimistic because they grew up in environments with more cultural and economic capital.
Is aiming high always a good thing? A behavioral model of aspiration failure with evidence from lower-secondary students in China
Authors: Wei Shuangda
Published: July 2024

While extensive research has focused on the impact of educational expectations on academic performance, limited studies have explored the behavioral implications of educational aspirations, which are often presumed to have a monotonically increasing motivational effect. Challenging this conventional view, we leverage recent developments in economic theory to explore the non-monotonic motivational effect of educational aspirations, introducing the concept of “aspiration failure.” We propose a behavioral model that captures this motivational effect within a framework of decision-making under uncertainty, distinguishing between aspirations and expectations. Through regression analysis of data from the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS), we investigate how educational aspirations influence student effort and subsequent academic performance. Our findings reveal an overall positive and increasing motivational effect, after adjusting for multiple socioeconomic and psychological factors. Subgroup analysis indicates that low-achieving students with aspirations for a bachelor’s degree demonstrate greater effort and achieve better outcomes compared with those aiming for a master’s degree or higher, highlighting aspirational failure in the educational context. Consequently, we suggest that students can reach higher levels of behavioral motivation and academic success by adjusting their educational aspirations to more realistic levels instead of pursuing overly ambitious goals.
Exploring the “Fourth Drawback”: Overlap Between Mediator and Criterion in Mediation Analysis
Authors: Kerr Norbert L.
Published: July 2024

In mediation analyses, several assumptions are routinely made. One such assumption is that the mediator and criterion variables are distinct, and not essentially the same variable with overlapping content. When this assumption is strongly violated, traditional mediation analysis is likely to falsely indicate that mediation has occurred. Spencer et al. refer to this as the “fourth drawback” of mediation analysis. It is argued here that this fourth drawback is not confined to cases of nearly complete overlap between mediator and criterion; mediation may often be falsely inferred when such overlap is partial. The results of a series of simulation studies are reported that corroborate this conclusion. Some potential responses to the risks of the fourth drawback are discussed.
Sensory-Motor-Oral Stimulation Combined with Early Sucking During the Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis Process in Children with Robin Sequence
Authors: Gasparin Marisa , Barth Fabiola Luciane , Schweiger Cláudia , Collares Marcus Vinícius Martins , Levy Deborah Salle , Marostica Paulo José Cauduro
Published: July 2024

Objective

To describe the findings of children with Robin Sequence (RS) who received sensory-motor-oral stimulation combined with early sucking during mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO), compared with children who did not receive the intervention.

Design

A quasi-experimental study. Setting: A tertiary public hospital. Patients: Children with RS referred to MDO. A historical group from the same population but managed according to the institution's standard protocol (no sucking) served as a control group. Interventions: Sensory-motor-oral stimulation, including sucking, starting 24 h after MDO (intervention group). Main Outcome Measure: Our hypothesis is that sensory-motor-oral stimulation, including sucking during the DOM process, do not negatively affect surgical outcomes.

Results

Twenty-nine children were included. Eight (72.7%) of the 11 patients in the intervention group and 13 (72.2%) of the 18 controls had MDO complications, with no significant difference between the groups ( p = 1.000). The most common surgical outcome was antibiotic therapy for surgical site infection (76.2%). Six months after MDO, 22 (75.9%) children attained full oral feeding or associated with alternative feeding methods.

Conclusion

The intervention group did not have higher complication rates, from a surgical point of view, than control group. The protocol adopted by some centers that contraindicates sucking during MDO should be revised to consider the benefits of such stimulation. Keywords: Pierre Robin Syndrome, deglutition, therapeutics, child development.
Thrombotic Prediction Model Based on Epigenetic Regulator Mutations in Essential Thrombocythemia Patients Using Survival Analysis in Recurrent Events
Authors: Saelue Pirun , Sinthujaroen Patuma , Suwiwat Supaporn , Thongsuksai Paramee
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) involves the proliferation of megakaryocytes and platelets and is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis. We aimed to evaluate thrombotic risks in patients with epigenetic regulator mutations and generate a model to predict thrombosis in ET.

Materials and Methods

This cohort study enrolled patients aged > 15 years diagnosed with ET at the Songklanakarind Hospital between January 2002 and December 2019. Twenty-five targeted gene mutations, including somatic driver mutations ( JAK2, CALR, MPL), epigenetic regulator mutations ( TET2, DNMT3A, IDH1, IDH2, TET2, ASXL1, EZH2, SF3B1, SRSF2) and other genes relevant to myeloid neoplasms, were identified using next-generation sequencing. Thrombotic events were confirmed based on clinical condition and imaging findings, and thrombotic risks were analyzed using five survival models with the recurrent event method.

Results

Ninety-six patients were enrolled with a median follow-up of 6.91 years. Of these, 15 patients experienced 17 arterial thrombotic events in total. Patients with JAK2 mutation and IDH1 mutation had the highest frequency of thrombotic events with somatic driver mutations (17.3%) and epigenetic regulator mutations (100%). The 10-year thrombosis-free survival rate was 81.3% (95% confidence interval: 72.0-91.8%). IDH1 mutation was a significant factor for thrombotic risk in the multivariate analysis for all models. The Prentice, William, and Peterson (PWP) gap-time model was the most appropriate prediction model.

Conclusions

The PWP gap-time model was a good predictive model for thrombotic risk in patients with ET. IDH1 mutation was significant risk factors for thrombosis; however, further studies with a larger sample size should confirm this and provide more insight.
Spotlighting the Economy: Media Coverage and Mayoral Evaluations
Authors: Burke Richard
Published: July 2024

This article examines local media's moderating role in the relationship between local economic performance and mayoral approval. Media's moderating role is especially important in subnational contexts, such as cities, where citizens have particularly low levels of political knowledge. In this article, I hypothesize that the economy's influence on mayoral approval is conditional on the economic coverage of the mayor. I tested this hypothesis on two different datasets. First, I matched twenty-five years of mayoral approval and economic data from New York City with New York Times coverage during the same period. Next, I paired mayoral approval data from the 2016 Cooperative Congressional Election Study with mayoral news coverage from 40 large cities. In both tests, I found evidence that the relationship between local economic performance and public attitudes toward mayors was conditional on whether local media focused on the economy in its mayoral coverage.