bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Information Manifold Perspective for Analyzing Test Data
Authors: Ramsay James O. , Li Juan , Wallmark Joakim , Wiberg Marie
Published: December 2024

Modifications of current psychometric models for analyzing test data are proposed that produce an additive scale measure of information. This information measure is a one-dimensional space curve or curved surface manifold that is invariant across varying manifold indexing systems. The arc length along a curve manifold is used as it is an additive metric having a defined zero and a version of the bit as a unit. This property, referred to here as the scope of the test or an item, facilitates the evaluation of graphs and numerical summaries. The measurement power of the test is defined by the length of the manifold, and the performance or experiential level of a person by a position along the curve. In this study, we also use all information from the items including the information from the distractors. Test data from a large-scale college admissions test are used to illustrate the test information manifold perspective and to compare it with the well-known item response theory nominal model. It is illustrated that the use of information theory opens a vista of new ways of assessing item performance and inter-item dependency, as well as test takers’ knowledge.
Harnessing potentials of Avicennia marina (true mangrove) as green biosorbent for decolorization of methyl red dye
Authors: Vaish Supriya , Pathak Bhawana
Published: December 2024

The increasing environmental concerns associated with textile dye pollution necessitate the development of sustainable and eco-friendly treatment methods. Among various natural biosorbents, Avicennia marina (true mangrove) emerges as a promising candidate due to its robust growth in coastal ecosystems and its potential for dye adsorption. This research delves into the feasibility of employing A. marina as a green biosorbent for the decolorization of methyl red (MR), a prevalent textile dye. Through comprehensive experimentation, we examined the effects of various parameters, including the contact time (20–120 min), pH (1–10), temperature, dose (25–150 g/L), and initial dye concentration (20–600 mg/L), on the adsorption capacity of the biosorbent. Characterization of the prepared biosorbent was done using atomic force microscopy(AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The FTIR results show phenobarbitone containing OH, –CH, –NH2, COOH, –CO, C=C=N, NO, and C=C groups. SEM image indicated long-fiber-bundle and honeycomb-structure parenchyma cell structure found between 1 µm and 2 µm, and XRD peaks exhibited hemicellulose at 2Ɵ=15.01 and cellulose at 2Ɵ=22.03. A. marina exhibits excellent adsorption capacity for MR (73% decolorization at a concentration of 500 ppm occurred in highly acidic conditions (pH = 1) after 75 min of contact time), making it a promising candidate for industrial wastewater treatment. The study emphasizes pseudo-second-order kinetics and the Freundlich adsorption isotherm as the best-fitted model for MR adsorption. Furthermore, the adsorbent demonstrated a commendable removal efficiency for MR dye in actual water samples. The removal efficiency of dye in industrial wastewater, CETP, and Sabarmati river discharge is 67.18%, 82.07%, and 77.55% respectively, with a time duration of 20–120 min. The findings underscore the potential of harnessing natural resources like A. marina for sustainable water management, contributing to the broader goal of achieving zero-waste economies.
Research on shear-thinning and surface properties of CaO–SiO2–CaF2–Al2O3-based mould flux
Authors: Ma Shaochen , Zhang Caijun , Yuan Zhipeng , Zhu Liguang
Published: December 2024

The main feature of high-efficiency continuous casting production is the increase in casting speed. This leads to an increased risk of slag entrapment in the liquid surface area of the mould and steel leakage due to the bonding of the casting billet. Both traditional mould flux and non-Newtonian fluid mould flux with only shear-thinning properties cannot effectively solve these problems. This study selected a practical high-casting speed thin slab mould flux from a steel plant as the original mould flux. Add 4.6–12.1% Al2O3 and 3.6–4.9% MnO and other additives to prepare a new type of mould flux with both shear thinning characteristics and high surface tension. The shear-thinning properties, interface properties and microstructure of the mould flux were detected and studied using methods such as the rotating cylinder method. The results showed that with the increase of Al2O3 content, the shear-thinning properties of the mould flux first enhanced and then weakened. The strongest effect was observed when the Al2O3 content was 8.7%. The contact angle, surface tension and interface tension of the mould flux were significantly improved and the degree of molecular polymerisation gradually increased. The shear-thinning properties of mould flux are mainly related to the Si–O–Al structure. The interaction force between Al3+ in the slag and the surface O2− of the mould flux increases, and the surface tension of the mould flux increases. When the Al2O3 content is more than 10.5%, a large amount of AlO2− will be repelled to the surface of the mould flux, and the change in surface tension is no longer significant.
Cutibacterium avidum: A Unique Skin Flora Infection Without Foreign Body in a Mastopexy
Authors: Ray Andrew , Zaremba Shelby , Baldwin Leah
Published: December 2024

We describe a previously healthy 39-year-old woman diagnosed with a breast abscess due to Cutibacterium avidum after breast reduction surgery. This case along with several others previously reported should raise concern for the pathogenicity and morbidity associated with this common skin flora organism in the future of breast surgery.
Assessing the Victim–Perpetrator Overlap in Adolescent Dating Violence in China: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Cheung Nicole W. T. , Yao Wei
Published: December 2024

There is a limited understanding of the pathways that lead to victim−perpetrator overlap in adolescent dating violence (ADV) particularly in developing countries such as China. Applying a latent class approach, the present study focuses on whether the overlap can be explained by theoretical constructs grounded in social learning, general strain, and social bonding theories, and whether these constructs relate to underexplored mediating mechanisms or are direct precursors. The study sample consisted of 1,787 dating adolescents (39.8% male; mean age = 17.82 ± 0.92 years) from a population of 5,820 adolescents in 32 high schools in Chinese cities and rural counties. We found a significant victim−perpetrator overlap in controlling, psychological, and physical ADV, with the proclivity increasing with the severity of ADV. Membership of groups engaged in general delinquency and those engaged in dating violence increased the odds of victim−perpetrator overlap. Peer bullying victimization was the most consistent direct predictor of victim−perpetrator overlap in family/peer/community settings; victimization resulting from interparental violence during childhood, peer bullying, and community violence was the most consistent indirect predictor. Neighborhood bonds had a greater impact than social bonds with family and school in terms of direct and indirect protective effects against victim−perpetrator overlap. Patterns of exposure to violent victimization in family/peer/community settings and patterns of social bonds cast new light on the nature of deviant peer (general delinquency vs. ADV) networks, which were found to operate as major mediating mechanisms in victim−perpetrator overlap.
Topology optimization and model fusion reconstruction of pump truck boom structure under multi working conditions
Authors: Li Peng , Xi Guoxin , Xiao Libo , Gao Rongzhi , Wang Jiaqian , Song Xueguan
Published: December 2024

The increasingly stringent national regulations have imposed restrictions on the weight compliance of concrete pump trucks. Through multi working condition topology optimization design and model fusion reconstruction technology, a lightweight design was carried out on the boom structure of a certain type of pump truck, achieving a weight reduction of 300 kg. The pioneering reliability assessment verification for the novel “hollow-out” boom structure has been conducted, representing a significant milestone in the industry. The test results show that, the static stress does not exceed 580 MPa, meeting stringent material usage requirements; the fatigue life is equivalent to 9,600 h, surpassing the industry benchmark of 8,000 h. The groundbreaking findings have been successfully integrated into multiple pump truck products, promoting the ongoing advancement of boom lightweight design practices within the industry.
Performance optimization of binary fluid-filled heat pipes for battery thermal management applications using RSM and ANN schemes: A comparative assessment
Authors: Kumar Rajat , Dwivedi Ankur , Goel Varun
Published: December 2024

In the present scenario, the development of efficient lithium-ion energy storage system-based electric vehicles has been turned into the focus as an effective alternative to conventional transportation systems. However, correspondingly associated potential risks of thermal failure confirm the need for an effective thermal management system to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive heat generated during operation. This work takes an opportunity to present a comparative performance assessment of response surface method (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN)-based predictive models to analyze the thermal behavior of oscillating heat pipes (OHP) filled with binary working fluids (acetone-DI water, acetone-methanol, and acetone-ethanol) with mixing ratio (1:1 ≤ MR ≤ 2:1) and volumetric filling ratio (30%≤FR ≤ 70%) as independent variables at different battery discharge rates (1C ≤ DR ≤ 2C). The thermal performance is predicted in terms of maximum cell temperature (MCT), average cell temperature (ACT), and thermal uniformity (TD). The acetone-DI water binary mixture was identified as the optimal working fluid among the fluids evaluated. The ACT, MCT, and TD were determined to be 38.3°C, 40°C, and 3.4°C, respectively, under a filling ratio (FR) of 70%, mixing ratio (MR) of 2:1, and a discharge rate (DR) of 2C. The prediction model performance is measured using correlation coefficient ( R2) value and average absolute prediction error (APE) to acknowledge the best fit. The results confirm the applicability of both the prediction models with the ANN model ( R2-values ≥ 0.99998; average APE ≥ 0.0162%) slightly more accurate relative to the corresponding RSM approach ( R2-values ≥ 0.9814; average APE ≥ 0.2342%).
Investigating the influence of pre-tightening on radial-type flight intersection joints using a spring-mass model
Authors: Mohapatra Rashmiranjan , Palathingal Safvan , Narayanamurthy Vijayabaskar , Ramji M
Published: December 2024

Flight intersection joints (FIJs) connect different airframe sections of a slender launch vehicle, and their effectiveness is assessed by joint rotational stiffness (JRS). The JRS value of the FIJs is influenced by various parameters such as fastener type, joint dimensions, joint component properties, pre-tightening of fasteners, friction, joint clearance, etc. The current work is focused on investigating the influence of pre-torque magnitude on radial FIJs with certain clearance values using the spring-mass-based analytical model. The predictions of the model are verified by conducting appropriate experiments and numerical simulations. The study demonstrates that pre-torque and clearance induce a tri-linear joint behavior in FIJ under an external bending moment. The tightening torque increases both the JRS magnitude as well as the net load-carrying capacity, whereas the clearance drastically reduces the magnitude of these two parameters. Also, the position of the fasteners in the FIJ with respect to loading direction affects the JRS significantly, and this effect gets subdued with an increase in screw numbers for a given airframe diameter. In addition, the absence of pre-load on one more screw and its influence on the JRS magnitude is investigated by employing the aforementioned analytical model simulating a practical situation.
Pursuing a carbon-neutral world: How digital exports, financial stability, and energy security contribute to green growth
Authors: Yang Yang , Yunbao Xu , Qifeng Xu , Yongjun Guan , Sohail Sidra
Published: December 2024

Digital exports, financial stability, and energy security are vital in determining green growth. However, no empirics in the past have shed light on the relationship between digital exports, financial stability, energy security, and green growth. The main focus of the analysis is how digital exports, financial stability, and energy security affect green growth in 33 world's leading energy-consuming economies from 2000 to 2021. To that end, the study employed the novel cross-sectionally augmented autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) model. Our findings show that digital exports and financial stability boost long-run green growth in the full sample and in Asian, European, and American models, while energy security risks hinder long-run green growth in the full sample and in Asian, European, and American models. Environmental technology promotes long-run green growth in full-sample and in European and American models, and renewable energy consumption helps boost green growth in full-sample and European models. In the short run, financial stability is crucial for green growth in the full sample and in Asian and American models, while environmental technology benefits green growth in all models. Integrating digital exports, financial stability, and sustainable energy practices for ecologically sustainable and commercially rewarding green growth in a fast-changing global context is essential.
Rosmanol Effectively Prevents Diethylnitrosamine-induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Rats by Regulating the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Cao Wei , Liu Qi , Wang Ying , Chen Lianfeng
Published: December 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third principal reason for tumor-linked fatalities globally. There is no effective cure for HCC due to rapid progression and poor prognosis. Rosmanol (RM) is a phenolic diterpene antioxidant that exhibits anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.

Purpose

This research aims to examine the chemopreventive efficacy of RM on the PI3K/Akt pathway as a potential mechanism for its protective effect against N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced HCC.

Materials and Methods

Wistar albino male rats were separated into four sets: normal control (NC); DEN-induced HCC model; DEN+RM (40 mg/kg bw); and RM (40 mg/kg bw) alone. To evaluate the chemopreventive mechanism, we assessed the change in body weight, liver weight, hepatotoxicity markers, antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation, proliferation proteins, cytokines, histopathology, and western blot.

Results and Conclusion

Our data revealed that RM could reduce the loss of body weight, liver weight, toxicity enzymes, oxidative stress, inflammation, and restructuring of the hepatocellular architecture against DEN-stimulated HCC rats. RM-alone treated rats exhibited comparable activity with NC. Furthermore, RM attenuates PCNA and cyclin-D1 protein expression by the regulation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. The possible chemopreventive activities of RM may be owing to its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative effects. Thus, RM may aid as an innovative remedial agent for HCC treatment.
Cu(II) mediated oxidation of L-phenylalanine with chromic acid in micellar medium: A kinetic and mechanistic approach
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek , Dohare Rajeev Kumar , Srivastava Nitin , Singh Ruchi
Published: December 2024

The objective of the proposed investigation is to examine the influence of cationic, anionic, and neutral surfactants on the Cu(II) facilitated L-Phenylalanine (Pheala) oxidation using chromic acid. The oxidation rate is ascertained by measuring the decrease in absorbance at a wavelength of 350 nm, which is an indicator of the Cr(VI) concentration. The reaction's advancement is assessed employing the pseudo-first-order condition as a gauge for [H+], [Cr(VI)], ionic strength, [Pheala], [Cu(II)], [Surfactant], and temperature. Pheala and Cr(VI) interact stoichiometrically in a ratio of 3:2. Across the spectrum of concentrations examined, the studied reaction reflects fractional-first-order kinematics in relation to both [Pheala], and Cu(II), first-order reliance on the [Cr(VI)], and fractional-second-order for [H+]. A zero salt effect is suggested by the observed constancy in oxidation rate with the inclusion of electrolyte. The oxidation rate is 3.5 times enhanced by Cu(II) solution (as a catalyst) at ppm concentration. SLS micellar media enables a further twofold increase in the rate of Pleala oxidation. TX-100 also promotes Pheala oxidation, however, CTAB, a cationic surfactant, inhibits it. As a catalyst, SLS exhibits the best compatibility with Cu(II) metal salt.
Creating a Standardized Instrument to Assess ADEI Efforts in Social Work Programs
Authors: Krase Kathryn S. , Delong Hamilton Tobi , Meza Jeannine , Harmon Dana K. , Sullivan Dana
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Under the Council on Social Work Education 2022 Education and Policy Accreditation Standards, social work programs must have a systematic plan to “assess anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion (ADEI) efforts within the program's implicit curriculum”. This article outlines development, piloting, and related statistical analyses of the SWEAP ADEI Instrument. This standardized instrument is designed to facilitate student assessment of program ADEI efforts within the implicit curriculum. Methods: Students from two social work programs piloted the instrument. An expert panel evaluated the instrument construct, content, and face validity. Results: Construct, content, and face validity of the entire instrument, as well as the construct subscales, were secured through expert involvement in the process of instrument development. Internal Consistency and Test–Retest analyses confirm reliability of the instrument. Conclusions: The reliability and validity of the SWEAP ADEI Instrument is supported.
Women, Shame, and Stigma: Responding to (In)justice Through Zine
Authors: Waite Sarah , Darley Danica , Eden-Barnard Julie , Rutter Natalie , Tatton Sarah
Published: December 2024

Women, Shame, and Stigma is a zine that has been co-created by academics to communicate and share the connections and commonalities of women’s experiences across a Criminal Justice process. Utilising research findings and lived knowledge of policing, probation, and the prison system, the pages expose the complex continuums of shame and stigma and the gendered nature of systems in inducing and compounding women’s experiences. In making the zine available, the authors have two primary aims. First, to share the experiences of women in a creative and accessible format, enabling readers to visualise the depth of stigmatic and shameful experiences. Second, the authors hope to highlight the reflexive experience of this process, driving home its value as a method of knowledge construction and as an act of resistance towards the fast-paced, neoliberal academia that shapes our senses of accelerating time pressures. The accompanying text piece examines and reflects upon the trajectory of the zine, with a view to sharing both the knowledge and experience with others.
Quality improvement in resistance spot welding of H1000 austenitic stainless steel using an external magnetic field
Authors: Feng Qiaobo , Ma Yunwu , Zhang Qingxin , David Stan A. , Li Yongbing
Published: December 2024

H1000 steel represents a novel nickel-free austenitic stainless steel. While it is compatible with resistance spot welding, weld defects compromise its structural integrity. Magnetic-assisted resistance spot welding (MA-RSW) has proven effective in enhancing weld quality for advanced high-strength steels. However, the underlying mechanism of magnetic fields on H1000 steel remains unclear. To fill in this gap, this study applied MA-RSW and RSW to H1000 steels for a systematic comparison. The findings revealed that MA-RSW enhances the weld tensile shear strength of H1000 steel by 10.5% due to two factors: firstly, the nugget diameter expands as magnetic force drives molten metal to scour the nugget's edge; secondly, electromagnetic stirring decreases the nugget's critical diameter by minimising defects and refining grain structure within the nugget.
Tele-neuropsychological multidomain assessment in Italian people with cognitive disorders: Reliability and user satisfaction
Authors: Bressan Miriana Maria , Musso Anna Maria , Bovi Tommaso , Bonetti Bruno , Zucchella Chiara
Published: December 2024

Background

Tele-neuropsychology has already been employed in neurocognitive disorders, however, in Italy, the evidence of its psychometric quality and satisfaction is still limited.

Objective

This study aimed to: (1) evaluate the reliability of a standardized battery of neuropsychological screening and domain-specific tests delivered at home via videoconference to a sample of Italian people with cognitive disorders, compared with traditional face-to-face administration; (2) assess the feasibility and satisfaction about remote administration.

Methods

This crossover study enrolled patients with subjective cognitive disorder, mild neurocognitive disorder, or dementia. All participants performed a brief neuropsychological screening assessment in face-to-face or remote mode. People with milder cognitive disorders (Mini-Mental State Examination ≥ 20) also performed an extended neuropsychological battery. After 15 days, each participant repeated the same assessment in the opposite mode. Finally, participants completed a satisfaction questionnaire.

Results

114 participants were initially enrolled in the study and 100 individuals performed both face-to-face and remote assessments (14 dropouts). All neuropsychological tests showed agreement between the two modes of administration, except for the Digit Span Forward ( p = 0.009) and oral-Symbol Digit Modalities Test ( p < 0.001). According to Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (LCCCs), tests also showed good or excellent reliability (LCCCs between 0.609 and 0.964); only the Digit Span Backward and the Stroop test showed moderate reliability (LCCCs =0.514–0.441, respectively). Among 100 participants, 65 patients answered the satisfaction questionnaire, declaring high satisfaction for the remote evaluation.

Conclusions

Tele-neuropsychology seems to work with in-home assessments among Italian patients with cognitive disorders and seems to be acceptable to them.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT06078332 (October 17, 2023).
Democratic change and alter-political cooperativism: A critical view from Thessaloniki, Greece
Authors: Kioupkiolis Alexandros , Karyotis Theodoros
Published: December 2024

In recent years, theorists and activists championing the ‘commons’ have propounded a socio-centric idea of democratic resistance and renewal with a global address. This conception holds that the making of new social relations and practices here and now should be the main pillar of activity aiming at wide-ranging social reconstruction. The present paper complicates and qualifies this thesis. Socio-economic and technological breakthroughs can effectively serve as a catalyst for democratic change if they are adequately politicised, that is, deliberately oriented and embedded in a broader counter-hegemonic project. As a first step, the paper reviews socio-centrism and brings out its limits. But the main part is a critical inquiry into alternative cooperative enterprises set up in recent years in the northern city of Thessaloniki, Greece: a cooperative bookstore and publishing house (‘Akyvernites Politeies’), a self-organised factory (‘Vio.Me’), and a consumer cooperative (‘Bios Coop’). The three ventures are construed as ‘alter-political’ economic initiatives to highlight their distinctive political self-construction. The case study corroborates the theoretical argument by indicating that socio-economic enterprises aspiring to radical democratisation are deliberately political from the outset. Second, such social innovation needs to be integrated into, and bolstered by, expansive counter-hegemonic politics and movements, as their actors themselves point out.
Comparative corrosion behaviour of different alloys for nitric acid service in reprocessing plants
Authors: Chandra K. , Das Sanket , Mahanti Ghosal Amrita
Published: December 2024

In nuclear spent fuel reprocessing plants in India, austenitic stainless steel (SS) 304L serves as the structural material for critical components that handle boiling nitric acid. SS 304L is prone to intergranular corrosion (IGC) in the transpassive region of the polarisation curve. As a result, there is a need to replace SS 304L with corrosion-resistant alloys of Ti or Zr. In this regard, the corrosion behaviour of two candidate alloys, Ti–Al–Zr and Zircaloy-4, was assessed and compared with SS 304L. The corrosion evaluation was performed using electrochemical tests, corrosion immersion tests in three different phases (liquid, vapour and condensate) of nitric acid, and metallographic examination. Both Ti–Al–Zr and Zircaloy-4 exhibited a broad passivity range of up to 3 VAg/AgCl in various nitric acid solutions. Based on these investigations, it was concluded that both Ti–Al–Zr and Zircaloy-4 are suitable for use in critical components handling boiling nitric acid with a high concentration of strongly oxidising ions. The corrosion resistance of the three alloys tested was ranked as: Zircaloy-4 > Ti–Al–Zr > SS 304L.
Preparation and luminescent properties of rare earth Eu-doped nano-ZnO composite films on textiles
Authors: Yuan Xiaohong , Yu Huangliang , Chen Zhi , Wei Qufu
Published: December 2024

This study reports the successful preparation of rare-earth Eu-doped ZnO composite films on cotton fabric, achieving remarkable luminescent properties through the magnetron sputtering method. A comprehensive analysis of the structural and luminescent characteristics of the samples was conducted using various evaluation techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, photocatalysis testing and color fastness measurements. The findings indicate that the affiliation of Eu3+ ions significantly enhanced the luminescent intensity along with the photocatalytic property of the ZnO-loaded fabrics. Furthermore, the sample sputtered for a duration of 1 hour exhibited superior overall optical performance than that of 3 hours. This study demonstrates the potential of Eu-doped ZnO composite films for various applications, including luminescent and photocatalytic textiles.
Mortality trends and disparities in adults with Huntington's disease in the United States
Authors: Saeed Humza , Abdullah  , Hameed Hira , Maaz Hafiz Mohammad , Wasay Abdul , Amin Zubair , Arshad Muhammad Khubaib , Jain Hritvik , Goyal Aman
Published: December 2024

Background

Huntington's disease (HD), an autosomal dominant disorder, is characterized by progressive neurodegeneration, psychiatric issues, dementia, and worsening chorea over time. Its prevalence varies by ethnicity and region.

Objective

This study aims to analyze mortality trends and disparities in adults with HD in the United States (US).

Methods

This study analyzed death certificates from 1999 to 2020 for deaths due to HD (ICD-10 code G10) in individuals aged 25 and older. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) and annual percent change (APC) were calculated by year, gender, age groups, race/ethnicity, geographics and urbanization status.

Results

Between 1999 and 2020, there were 24,121 reported deaths among patients with HD. During this period, the AAMR increased from 4.3 to 6.0 per 1,000,000 population, with a notable surge from 2018 to 2020 (APC: 9.88; 95% CI: 5.45 to 13.20). Older adults exhibited the highest AAMRs at 10.4 per 1,000,000 when analyzed by age-group. Men and women had comparable AAMRs (5.2 vs. 5.0). By race, non-Hispanic (NH) Whites had the highest AAMRs (6.0), followed by NH African Americans (3.3) and Hispanics (2.8). Additionally, non-metropolitan areas experienced higher AAMRs compared to metropolitan areas (6.6 vs. 4.8).

Conclusions

Since 1999, mortality from HD has increased, particularly from 2018 to 2020, with higher rates in older adults, men, NH Whites, and non-metropolitan areas. Further research is essential to consolidate data, standardize reporting practices, and address disparities to improve outcomes.
Huntington's disease at work: The effect of profession-specific requirements as related to clinical characteristics on work outcome
Authors: van der Zwaan Kasper F. , Jacobs Milou , Roos Raymund A.C. , de Bot Susanne T.
Published: December 2024

Background

In most Huntington's disease expanded gene carriers (HDEGC), losing work capacity is the first sign of functional decline. Cognitive deterioration, motor dysfunction, and psychiatric disturbances are associated with or predict work outcomes in HD. The role of profession-specific requirements, however, has not been investigated.

Objective

This study examines the relationship between work outcomes, clinical characteristics, burnout, and profession-specific requirements in HDEGC. We hypothesize that burnout-like symptoms are associated with mild apathy and that profession-specific requirements influence clinical characteristics affecting work capacity in HD.

Methods

A cohort of 117 HDEGC (CAG repeat ≥36) participated in the “HD-work” study at Leiden University Medical Center. Participants were 18–67 years old, either, worked at baseline, or had lost their job within two years. The Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale assessed motor abilities, global functioning, and cognition. The HD-work questionnaire and the ‘Utrecht Burn Out Scale’ assessed work problems and burnout. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, Cronbachs alpha, t-tests, and logistic regressions.

Results

Burnout-like symptoms did not differ between those with full and reduced working capacity and were not more prevalent in HD than in the general Dutch population. No significant effect was found between work outcomes and profession-specific requirements, even when adjusted for clinical characteristics.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that profession-specific requirements do not significantly impact work ability among individuals with HD in early phases of HD. Workplace adjustments should be tailored to individual preferences rather than profession-specific demands. Burnout-like symptoms did not affect work capacity or relate to apathy.
Huntington’s Disease Clinical Trials Update: September 2024
Authors: Farag Mena , Tabrizi Sarah J , Wild Edward J
Published: December 2024

In this edition of the Huntington's Disease Clinical Trials Update, we expand on the ongoing extension study of PTC518 from PTC Therapeutics, including 12-month interim results from the parent study. We also discuss 24-month interim results from uniQure's AMT-130 program and 28-week follow-up results from Wave Life Sciences’ SELECT-HD clinical trial of WVE-003. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive listing of all currently registered and ongoing clinical trials in Huntington's disease.
Defining the Thyroid-RLN Entry Triangle for Enhanced Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Exposure in TOETVA: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhou Shiwei , Li Hui , Wu Peng , Li Wu , Wang Zhiyuan , Zhang Lu , Li Jigang , Peng Xiaowei
Published: December 2024

Background

Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and parathyroid glands (PGs) are the most common and serious complications during the transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA), and their exposure and protection are the most important factors affecting the operation time. Here, we report a novel anatomical landmark and surgical method to shorten the operative time and reduce the chance of injury to the RLN and PGs.

Methods

According to the different exposure methods of the RLN, patients were divided into the experimental group (from top to bottom, E-group) and the comparison group (from outside to inside, C-group), and 1:1 propensity score-matching (PSM) was performed. The demographics, operative data, postoperative data, and postoperative complications were analyzed by comparing the 2 groups.

Results

After PSM, a total of 206 patients were included. Except for tumor size, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of sex, age, body mass index, presence of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or extent of surgery. Compared with the C-group, the operative time, in minutes, of the E-group was significantly shorter (hemithyroidectomy with central neck dissection (CND), C = 111.81 ± 25.83 vs E = 100.52 ± 16.47, P = .002 and bilateral thyroidectomy with CND, C = 177.87 ± 36.61 vs E = 156.05 ± 25.60, P = .004), the exposure time, in minutes, of the RLN was reduced (hemithyroidectomy with CND, C = 23.31 ± 7.07 vs E = 11.41 ± 2.75, P < .001 and bilateral thyroidectomy with CND, C = 45.64 ± 14.84 vs E = 21.76 ± 5.57, P < .001). The rate of postoperative temporary PGs and RLN injuries were also reduced (transient hypoparathyroidism, C = 13% vs E = 4%, P = .023 and transient RLN palsy, C = 10% vs E = 2%, P = .017). In addition, the remaining parameters such as the amount of bleeding, number of lymph node metastases, postoperative hospital stay, visual analog scale pain score, recurrence rate, and other complication rates were not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

It is safe and feasible to construct Thyroid-RLN Entry Triangle (Peng’s Triangle) for PGs and RLN protection in TOETVA. It is beneficial to shorten the operation time and reduce postoperative complications, both worthy of clinical promotion.

Trial Registration

This study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (UIN: ChiCTR2300067673, https://www.chictr.org.cn ) in accordance with the World Medical Association’s Declaration of Helsinki, 2013.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Ankle Osteoarthritis in Achondroplasia: A Retrospective Radiographic Assessment of 134 Patients
Authors: Choi Won Seok , Shin Jung Woo , Son Sei Wook , Kim Hak Jun , Hwang Sang Hyeon , Park Sang Geon , Park Young Hwan
Published: December 2024

Objective

The primary aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in patients with achondroplasia and to assess the impact of surgical correction of lower limb alignment on this prevalence. The secondary aim is to identify radiographic parameters associated with ankle osteoarthritis.

Design

This retrospective cohort study included 134 patients (268 ankles) who visited our institution between March 2014 and February 2023. Lower limb alignment was assessed using the mechanical axis deviation, lateral distal tibial angle, anterior distal tibial angle, and talar tilt angle. Ankle osteoarthritis was evaluated using the Van Dijk Osteoarthritis score and modified Kellgren–Lawrence (K-L) scale by 2 experienced orthopedic surgeons.

Results

The prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in our study cohort was 29%, and that of advanced ankle osteoarthritis defined by Van Dijk Osteoarthritis scale III or modified K-L grade 4 was 0.8% (aged <40 years, 22%, and 0%; aged ≥40 years, 42% and 2%, respectively). Talar tilt angle was the only radiographic parameter that showed a significant correlation with the degree of ankle osteoarthritis (Van Dijk Osteoarthritis score, rs = 0.403, P < 0.001; modified K-L grade, rs = 0.385, P < 0.001).

Discussion

The prevalence of ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia is moderate, but the progression to advanced stages is uncommon. Ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia is strongly associated with increased talar tilt angle. This finding emphasizes caution regarding ankle osteoarthritis in achondroplasia with a nonparallel tibiotalar articular surface. Clinicians should, therefore, consider regularly assessing the talar tilt angle in patients with achondroplasia.
The role of digital storytelling and narrative reflective reports in developing the skills of foreign language teachers
Authors: Pentina Yevgeniya , Kuznetsova Tamara
Published: December 2024

The article describes an action research study that uses narrative reflective reports and digital storytelling as tools to enhance the narrative competency of aspiring foreign language instructors. The main purpose was to test different approaches for developing the narrative competency of foreign language instructors in context-based instruction. The study involved 68 students of pedagogical faculty of foreign languages. Through systematic reflection and analysis, students can develop reflexive and critical awareness. Regarding the creation of reflective reports, the authors revealed that future foreign language teachers are encouraged to examine their story-making processes productively, to create fresh accounts from different perspectives. The findings demonstrate how students' personal narratives guide classroom activities throughout the teaching process. Creating narratives, students are cognitively involved; they pay attention to the crucial results, developing narrative competence. The information provided in the study will be useful for foreign language teachers, linguists, university professors, students majoring in linguistics.
What is sentiment meant to mean to language models?
Authors: Burnham Michael
Published: December 2024

Sentiment analysis is one of the most widely used text analysis methods in social science. Recent advancements with large language models have made it more accurate and accessible than ever, allowing researchers to classify text with only a plain English prompt. However, “sentiment” entails a wide variety of concepts depending on the domain and tools used. It has been used to mean emotion, opinions, market movements, or simply a general “good-bad” dimension. This raises a question: What exactly are language models doing when prompted to label documents by sentiment? This paper first overviews how sentiment is defined across different contexts, highlighting that it is a confounded measurement construct that entails multiple concepts, particularly emotional valence and opinion, without disentangling them. I then test three language models across two data sets with prompts requesting sentiment, valence, and stance classification. I find that language models generally understand sentiment in terms of emotional valence rather than opinion. I find that classification generally improves when researchers more precisely specify their dimension, but that even when classification metrics are similar the different prompts are biased in different ways. I conclude by encouraging researchers to move beyond sentiment when feasible and use more precise measurement constructs.
The emergence of artificial intelligence ethics auditing
Authors: Schiff Daniel S , Kelley Stephanie , Camacho Ibáñez Javier
Published: December 2024

The emerging ecosystem of artificial intelligence (AI) ethics and governance auditing has grown rapidly in recent years in anticipation of impending regulatory efforts that encourage both internal and external auditing. Yet, there is limited understanding of this evolving landscape. We conduct an interview-based study of 34 individuals in the AI ethics auditing ecosystem across seven countries to examine the motivations, key auditing activities, and challenges associated with AI ethics auditing in the private sector. We find that AI ethics audits follow financial auditing stages, but tend to lack robust stakeholder involvement, measurement of success, and external reporting. Audits are hyper-focused on technically oriented AI ethics principles of bias, privacy, and explainability, to the exclusion of other principles and socio-technical approaches, reflecting a regulatory emphasis on technical risk management. Auditors face challenges, including competing demands across interdisciplinary functions, firm resource and staffing constraints, lack of technical and data infrastructure to enable auditing, and significant ambiguity in interpreting regulations and standards given limited (or absent) best practices and tractable regulatory guidance. Despite these roadblocks, AI ethics and governance auditors are playing a critical role in the early ecosystem: building auditing frameworks, interpreting regulations, curating practices, and sharing learnings with auditees, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Healthcare professionals’ experiences of the change to telephone consultations in cancer care during the COVID-19 pandemic: An explorative qualitative study
Authors: Lindblad Katrine Vammen , Bødtcher Hanne , Sørensen Dina Melanie , Rosted Elizabeth , Kjeldsted Eva , Christensen Helle Gert , Svendsen Mads Nordahl , Thomsen Linda Aagaard , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: December 2024

Objective

During the COVID-19 pandemic, changes were made in cancer care including increased use of teleconsultations (TCs) and restrictions for relatives to attend in-person appointments at the outpatient clinics. This study aimed to provide in-depth information on healthcare professionals’ experiences of TC and the limited access for relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted at an oncological department responsible for oncological care of all patients with cancer in one of five health regions in Denmark. Fourteen healthcare professionals participated in three semi-structured focus group interviews with either secretaries and nurses or physicians, and one semi-structured individual interview with a secretary. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis.

Results

Four overall themes emerged in the thematic analysis: “Possibilities and limitations in relation to TC,” “Information load and timing,” “Insecurity” and “Lessons learned for the future.” Healthcare professionals missed face-to-face interactions, feared to overlook patients’ symptoms and relapse during TC, agreed that TC were not suitable for all types of consultations, and experienced improved work environment due to fewer patients and relatives at the department. Furthermore, patients should be involved in the decision of changing to TC, relatives must be recommended to participate in TC, physicians must meet the patient in-person before TC, and video consultations should be considered.

Conclusion

TC may be a valuable supplement to in-person consultations for patients with cancer in the future, and guidelines must be implemented to ensure suitable consultation types for TC, include patients’ preferences, and involve relatives.
Assessing Perceptions of the Police among Street-Identified Black Americans: The Relevance of Neighborhood Conditions
Authors: Muhammed Abass , Sun Ivan Y. , Payne Yasser Arafat
Published: December 2024

Although public attitudes toward the police have been widely examined over the past several decades, very few quantitative studies have focused on large community samples of street-identified Black populations. Drawing on data collected by a street participatory action research project conducted in two low-income urban Black neighborhoods, this paper examines perceptions of the police as a function of neighborhood and individual correlates among street-identified Black males and females. Study findings suggest that neighborhood physical disorder is negatively related to perceptions of the police, whereas social cohesion is positively linked to favorable perceptions. Older participants had more positive attitudes toward police, and respondents with prior arrest and incarceration experiences expressed more negative perceptions. Recommendations include improving housing and environmental management programs and constructively working with street-identified Black boys/men and girls/women to enhance public–police relations.
Comparative efficacy of risdiplam and nusinersen in Type 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy patients: A cohort study using real-world data
Authors: Ashrafi Mahmoud Reza , Babaee Marzieh , Hashemi Nazari Seyed Saeed , Barzegar Mohammad , Ghazavi Mohammadreza , Beiraghi Toosi Mehran , Nafissi Shahriar , Inaloo Soroor , Zamani Ghaletaki Gholamreza , Fatehi Farzad , Heshmat Ramin , Ghahvechi Akbari Masood , Abdi Alireza , Bakhtiary Hassan , Montazerlotfelahi Hadi , Abbaskhanian Ali , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Farshadmoghadam Hossein , Hosseiny Seyyed Mohammad Mahdi , Shariatmadari Fakhreddin , Ziaadini Bentolhoda , Babaei Meisam , Tavasoli Azita , Nikbakht Sedighe , Momen Aliakbar , Khajeh Ali , Aminzadeh Vahid , Mollamohammadi Mohsen , Taghdiri Mohammad Mehdi , Nasehi Mohammad Mehdi , Memarian Sara , Badv Reza Shervin , Heidari Morteza , Jafari Narjes
Published: December 2024

Background

Three medications have been approved for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) treatment. No head-to-head clinical trials have directly compared the efficacy of nusinersen and risdiplam. We compare the efficacy of them in Type 2 and 3 SMA patients, with 6 months of follow-up.

Methods

A multicenter cohort study was conducted. Demographic, genetic and clinical findings containing Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) and revised upper limb module (RULM) scales were gathered. An increase of at least 3 points in HFMSE and RULM scores was considered a positive response.

Results

73 (58.4%) children received risdiplam, and 52 (41.6%) received nusinersen non-randomly, based on clinical decision. The difference in HFMSE and RULM scores compared to the baseline was significant in both groups (P-value <0.001). However, there was no significant difference between mean difference changes in HFMSE and RULM scores between the two groups. 80.4% of patients in the risdiplam group and 72% in the nusinersen group achieved the 3-point cutoff after 6 months, and there is no significant difference between the two groups (P-Value:0.33).

Conclusions

This study showed that both medications significantly changed the HFSME and RULM after 3 and 6 months of follow-up. However, there was no significant difference between the two drugs according to the HFSME.
Ultra-Orphan drug development for GNE Myopathy: A synthetic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Suzuki Naoki , Mori-Yoshimura Madoka , Nishino Ichizo , Aoki Masashi
Published: December 2024

GNE myopathy is an autosomal recessive hereditary muscle disorder that has the following clinical characteristics: develops in early adulthood, gradually progresses from the distal muscles, and is relatively sparing of quadriceps until the advanced stages of the disease. With further progression, patients become non-ambulatory and need a wheelchair. There is growing concern about extra-muscular presentations such as thrombocytopenia, respiratory dysfunction, and sleep apnea syndrome. Pathologically, rimmed vacuoles and tubulofilamentous inclusions are observed in affected muscles. The cause of the disease is thought to be a sialic acid deficiency due to mutations of the GNE gene required for in vivo sialic acid biosynthesis. Sialic acid supplementation to a presymptomatic GNE myopathy mouse model was effective in preventing the development of the disease. Several clinical studies have been conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sialic acid supplementation in humans. Based on the favorable results of these studies, an extended-release aceneuramic acid formulation was approved for treatment of GNE myopathy in Japan in March 2024. It is anticipated that it will be a significant step in the development of an effective treatment for GNE myopathy and other ultra-orphan diseases.