bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Venous Thromboembolism Screening and Postoperative Selective Anticoagulant Therapy Effectively Prevents Postoperative Symptomatic Venous Thromboembolism in Gynecological Malignancies: A 15-Year, Single-Center Study
Authors: Tasaka Nobutaka , Minaguchi Takeo , Iwata Narushi , Suzuki Asuka , Fujieda Kaoru , Suto Asami , Itagaki Hiroya , Shikama Ayumi , Akiyama Azusa , Nakao Sari , Satoh Toyomi
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to determine which type of prophylaxis was effective for postoperative symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with gynecological malignancies. A total of 1756 consecutive patients undergoing laparotomy as first-line treatment were included. In Period 1 (2004–2009), low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH) was not available for postoperative VTE prophylaxis, but available in after Period 2 (2009–2013). In Period 3 (2013–2020), patients with pretreatment VTE could switch from LMWH to direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) as of 2015. Preoperative VTE was screened by measuring D-dimer, followed by venous ultrasound imaging, and computed tomography and/or perfusion lung scintigraphy. Postoperative symptomatic VTE occurred with an incidence of 2.8% by the measures without prophylactic LMWH administration in Period 1. The incidence of postoperative symptomatic VTE was 0.6% in Period 2 and 0.3% in Period 3, being significantly reduced compared with Period 1 ( P < .01 and < .0001). The incidences were not significantly different between Periods 2 and 3, but no patient switching to DOAC in Period 3 (n  =  79) developed symptomatic VTE. Our preoperative VTE screening and postoperative selective LMWH administration were significantly preventive against postoperative symptomatic VTE.
Exterior diffraction problems for a triangular lattice
Authors: Kapanadze David , Pesetskaya Ekaterina
Published: May 2023

Exterior Dirichlet problems for two-dimensional (2D) lattice waves on the infinite triangular lattice are considered. Namely, we study Dirichlet problems for the 2D discrete Helmholtz equation in a plane with a hole. New results are obtained for the existence and uniqueness of the solution in the case of the real wave number [Formula: see text] without passing to a complex wave number. Besides, Green’s representation formula for the solution is derived with the help of difference potentials. To demonstrate the results, we propose a method for numerical calculation.
Plasma Rich in Growth Factors as an Adjuvant Treatment for the Management of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: A Retrospective Observational Clinical Study
Authors: García Alejandro , Navarro M.R. , Ramirez Ana , Pino Ander , Navarro Ariadna , Moles Isabel , Gallego Estefanía , Anitua Eduardo
Published: May 2023

Background

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is a scarring alopecia in which the exact etiopathogenesis has not been completely elucidated and the available treatments are not very effective. Plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) has shown to induce folliculogenesis in hair loss related disorders. However, the scientific evidence when facing FFA is scarce.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the adjuvant use of PRGF compared to the conventional treatment in the management of FFA.

Methods

Participants with clinically diagnosed FFA who had been treated with either conventional therapy (Control Group) or conventional therapy combined with PRGF (PRGF Group) were identified from the center’s medical records. The clinical assessment was based on the “Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Severity Score” (FFASS), which was fulfilled during a period of two and 4 years.

Results

This study included 118 patients with clinically diagnosed FFA (Control Group: 57 and PRGF Group: 61). No adverse effects related to the treatments were observed. Both treatments showed to halt the steady progression of hair loss compared to baseline. PRGF treatment also induced significant hair regrowth compared to the Control Group. The scalp inflammation was reduced in response to treatments. The FFASS score indicated that PRGF Group improved the symptoms and severity of FFA in a significant manner.

Conclusions

The adjuvant use of PRGF may exert long-term beneficial effects on hair loss reduction and might reduce the symptoms and severity of FFA.
Personalization at different levels: Intra-party competition and preference voting in local elections
Authors: Wauters Bram
Published: May 2023

Personalization refers to a shift over time in attention and/or power from collective actors to individuals. I focus on personalization in voting behavior, measured by the use of preference voting in flexible list-PR systems. I will argue that in a multi-level context this kind of personalization can take place at different policy levels, which could influence each other. In local elections, voters can be attracted by the mayor and/or other local figureheads, but also by the national party leader and/or national politicians figuring on the local list. Therefore, scholars should not only focus on the number and importance of people to which personalization applies (‘person level’ of personalization), but also on how processes at one policy level impact on other policy levels (‘territorial level’ of personalization). By combining literature on intra-party competition and personalization on the one hand, and on electoral patterns in multi-level states on the other, I engage in a conceptual discussion about the nature of personalization. I add empirical evidence to this conceptual discussion by analyzing preference voting patterns in local elections in Flanders (Belgium). As such, we gain more insights in the remarkable decline of preference voting that took place there.
Individual and environmental factors in internalizing disorders in children and adolescents
Authors: Viswanathan Poornima , Kishore M Thomas , Seshadri Shekhar P , V S Binu
Published: May 2023

Background

Literature has emphasized the role of biopsychosocial factors in internalizing disorders; however, the role of developmental competencies of a child have not been explored much in this context. The current study aimed to understand the differences in developmental competencies, temperament, parenting practices and psychosocial adversities between children with and without internalizing disorders.

Method

The sample consisted of 200 children and adolescents aged seven to 18 years, with equal number of those with and without an internalizing disorder; and one of their parents. Psychopathology, temperament, interpersonal competence, emotion regulation, executive function, self-concept, adaptive behaviour, parenting practices, life events, family environment and abnormal psychosocial situations were measured using standardized tools.

Findings

Discriminant analysis revealed that temperamental domains of sociability and rhythmicity, developmental competencies of adaptive behaviour and self-concept, parenting practices involving father’s involvement and overall positive parenting differentiated the clinical and control groups better. Among psychosocial adversities, family environment domains of cohesion and organization, and subjective stress from life events and abnormal psychosocial situations were the most important discriminators.

Conclusion

The current study reveals that specific individual factors involving temperament and developmental competencies and environmental factors involving parenting practices and psychosocial adversities are significantly associated with internalizing disorders. This has implications for the mental health care of children and adolescents with internalizing disorders.
Polymer composites based on aromatic polyamide and fillers of spherical and layered structure for friction units of high-performance equipment
Authors: Кabat Oleh , Girin Oleg , Heti Krystyna
Published: May 2023

Without the employment of new equipment, with units functioning at high levels of weights, sliding speeds and temperatures, the current growth of the sector is all but impossible. High levels of labour intensity have a detrimental impact on the dependability and durability of the product. Moving joints, which comprise friction units, frequently fail at the same time. It is vital to increase their dependability and durability. This can be accomplished by substituting more recent materials with higher-quality qualities for the friction pair materials. To create such materials, the researchers created an aromatic polyamide polymer that was filled with silicon- (silica gel, bentonite) and carbon-containing (technical carbon, graphite) components. It was determined that depending on their nature, structure and content in the polymer matrix, the addition of these fillers enables the reduction of the coefficient of friction and wear of the produced polymer composites by 1.5–2.5 and 20–40 times, respectively, during frictional interaction with steel. It was found that 10–15% by weight of the examined fillers in aromatic polyamide is the ideal concentration. It has been proven that polymer composites filled with layered materials (bentonite, graphite) perform better in terms of tribological qualities when in contact with steel than those filled with spherical elements (technical carbon, silica gel). The improvement of the tribological properties of the developed polymer composites in comparison to the original polymer was determined based on the microphotographs of steel surfaces and the study of their morphological (roughness) and physical (microhardness) properties. It was determined that the change in the friction nature was due to the creation of an antifriction coating on the metal friction surface from the products of tribochemical reactions occurring during friction.
Assessing the growth of data journalism start-ups as alternative media and their roles in “flawed democracies”
Authors: Wu Shangyuan
Published: May 2023

Data journalism start-ups have emerged as viable forces in the news industry in recent years, with their creation of strong data stories that have won global data journalism awards. Such start-ups may be seen to play particularly important roles to safeguard democracy in societies where mainstream media is strictly controlled, taking on the role of alternative media to challenge the status quo. This study examines such start-ups in Asia, a fast-growing region with high Internet penetration rates but declining democracy and press freedom in international indices. This study focuses on India, Thailand and Singapore, listed as “flawed democracies” in the Economist Intelligence Unit Democracy Index, to discover the dimensions and roles of alternative media exhibited by selected data journalism start-ups there, particularly in their organizational structure, form, processes, content, and motive. Results show these organizations as focused not primarily on profits but on creating social change, offering to audiences more critical content and community voices, and playing the roles of interpreter, populist mobilizer, and even adversary. That said, politics and government do not tend to be common topics they cover – rather, systemic faults are revealed through investigations into social issues instead, revealing similarities with broader data journalism practice in the region.
A deep neural network for electrical resistance calibration of self-sensing carbon fiber polymer composites compatible with edge computing structural monitoring hardware electronics
Authors: Tomás Miguel , Jalali Said , Tabatha Kiera
Published: May 2023

The self-sensing ability of materials, in particular carbon fiber polymer composites (SSCFPC), is a must-have requirement when designing a structural monitoring network for remote assessment of structural serviceability. This work presents a study using an Artificial Deep Neural Network (ADNN) wherein is evaluated the electrical resistance ( R) output of specimens subjected to an unchanged deformation state of 2.86% strain for prolonged periods of time. Six ADNN architectures are evaluated with varying numbers of neurons on pre-defined hidden layers, sharing the same four data inputs and one output. The dataset is based on 3276 data points collected during the experimental campaign of an innovative electrode design embedded in SSCFPC specimens. The effect of the number of iterations and the architecture of the neural network is investigated in proposed ADNN models. Simple moving average, and moving Standard Deviation, [Formula: see text], are determined and plotted in terms of z-score to assist in performance evaluation of proposed ADNN models. The optimal ADNN architecture is found among six proposed architectures and for each of the four SSCFPC mixtures. Results show the proposed model architectures are able to predict values of R with greater accuracy than traditional regression mathematical methods when traditional statistical coefficients are used. However, when analyzing data in a time-series manner, results show further research is needed to achieve optimal accuracy results. The analysis presented focused on the structural monitoring network infrastructure and hardware electronics compatibility for further development of this type of SSCFPC as a self-sensing composite material with ability of automatic calibration and suitable for real-time data acquisition and artificial intelligence modeling.
Faculty Perceptions of Community College Student Retention and Persistence
Authors: Gauthier Thomas , Galindo Marilys
Published: May 2023

Student retention and persistence tracking have become more prominent at community colleges. While it is known that community colleges have low completion rates, these institutions need help finding ways to retain and persist their students. This study explored the faculty perspective of retention and persistence strategies. Using a phenomenological tradition, 32 faculty members were recruited to participate from a community college in Northern Florida. Three themes emerged from the data, a sense of belonging, engagement, and communication. This data is significant because there is limited research about faculty perceptions of student retention and persistence. The data further describes how faculty members address retention and persistence in the classroom.
“Hardly Able to Move, Much Less Open a Book”: A Systematic Review of the Impact of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Victimization on Educational Trajectories
Authors: Geppert Angela B. , Shah Aarushi H. , Hirsch Jennifer S.
Published: May 2023

Sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) is a highly prevalent issue, both in North America and globally, with well-recognized adverse impact on survivors’ physical, emotional, and economic well-being. The objective of this systematic review is to collect and synthesize empirical work on the effects of SGBV victimization on educational trajectories, goals, attainment, and outcomes. The review summarizes what is known about factors associated with victimization that affect survivors’ educational trajectories and highlights gaps in the literature pertaining to the effects of victimization on education. Five databases were searched for this review: Web of Science, Sociological Abstracts, PubMed, APA PsycInfo, and ERIC. For inclusion, the articles must present research on the academic impact of any form of SGBV experienced in higher education and must have been conducted in the United States or Canada. The 68 studies that met these criteria presented research on six key areas of educational outcomes: impacts on academic performance and motivation; attendance, dropout, and avoidance; changes in major/field of study; academic disengagement; educational attitudes and satisfaction; and academic climate and institutional relationships. Research also revealed factors mediating the relationship between SGBV exposure and educational outcomes such as mental health, physical health, social support, socioeconomic status, and resiliency, which we summarize in a pathway model. The research reviewed had significant limitations, including weak study designs, limited generalizability, and diversity concerns. We offer recommendations for future research on this topic.
Transformative Learning Through Group Coaching
Authors: Peters Björn , Göhlich Michael
Published: May 2023

Our study examines transformative learning outcomes of a group coaching format in a postgraduate program of a German University that is based on the cognitive-developmental approach to coaching. We administered a survey based on Kirkpatrick’s 4-Level Evaluation Model and its advancement by Alliger et al. that includes items from the Transformative Outcomes and Processes Scale. Findings suggest that the group coaching was effective on all levels and fostered transformative learning.
No-reflow phenomenon in stroke patients: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of clinical data
Authors: Mujanovic Adnan , Ng Felix , Meinel Thomas R , Dobrocky Tomas , Piechowiak Eike I , Kurmann Christoph C , Seiffge David J , Wegener Susanne , Wiest Roland , Meyer Lukas , Fiehler Jens , Olivot Jean Marc , Ribo Marc , Nguyen Thanh N , Gralla Jan , Campbell Bruce CV , Fischer Urs , Kaesmacher Johannes
Published: May 2023

Background:

The no-reflow phenomenon refers to the absence of microvascular reperfusion despite macrovascular reperfusion.

Aim:

The aim of this analysis was to summarize the available clinical evidence on no-reflow in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods:

A systematic literature review and a meta-analysis of clinical data on definition, rates, and impact of the no-reflow phenomenon after reperfusion therapy was carried out. A predefined research strategy was formulated according to the Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome (PICO) model and was used to screen for articles in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase up to 8 September 2022. Whenever possible, quantitative data were summarized using a random-effects model.

Results:

Thirteen studies with a total of 719 patients were included in the final analysis. Most studies (n = 10/13) used variations of the Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction scale to evaluate macrovascular reperfusion, whereas microvascular reperfusion and no-reflow were mostly assessed on perfusion maps (n = 9/13). In one-third of stroke patients with successful macrovascular reperfusion (29%, 95% confidence interval (CI), 21–37%), the no-reflow phenomenon was observed. Pooled analysis showed that no-reflow was consistently associated with reduced rates of functional independence (odds ratio (OR), 0.21, 95% CI, 0.15–0.31).

Conclusion:

The definition of no-reflow varied substantially across studies, but it appears to be a common phenomenon. Some of the no-reflow cases may simply represent remaining vessel occlusions, and it remains unclear whether no-reflow is an epiphenomenon of the infarcted parenchyma or causes infarction. Future studies should focus on standardizing the definition of no-reflow with more consistent definitions of successful macrovascular reperfusion and experimental set-ups that could detect the causality of the observed findings.
Introduction: Sites of reckoning special issue
Authors: Burnet Jennie , Zaretsky Natasha
Published: May 2023

This introduction explores the theories and themes presented in the articles of this special issue. It considers embodiment, temporality, and coherence as they relate to healing and survival at memory sites dedicated to reckoning with difficult or contentious pasts. This special issue deliberately decenters traditional approaches in memory studies by carving out spaces for the Global South and by considering activist–scholar or activist–artist–scholar interventions. This special issue includes articles on Argentina, Cambodia, Nicaragua, Namibia, Rwanda, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, and the United States.
Near and far: Tracing memory and reframing presence in pandemic-era Argentina
Authors: Zaretsky Natasha
Published: May 2023

Memory has been a central foundation of democracy and civil society in Argentina since the first years of the military dictatorship (1976–1983) when groups occupied public spaces to protest systematic disappearances and state repression that left 30,000 victims. It has taken decades to achieve some form of justice for state terror and repression, much of that shaped by the culture of memory and accountability that hinged on embodied forms of public protest. But what happens to cultural memory when a pandemic precludes traditional forms of gathering? And what does this reveal about how Argentines renegotiate the significance of shared remembering and presence? Building on ethnographic fieldwork in Buenos Aires, this visual essay examines the significance of shared embodied practices of remembering through the lens of pandemic restrictions that invite new insights into the relationship between presence and political belonging. Rather than simply reacting to specific instances of injustice, this essay argues for the significance of cultural memory practices as fundamentally constitutive of democratic culture and civil society in Argentina as it faces new challenges.
Design elements evoke embodiment at cultural sites in Rwanda and South Africa
Authors: Stanford Ruth
Published: May 2023

Design elements, the physical or architectural choices that determine the character of space, can have a dramatic effect on visitor experience at museums and memorial sites. At those employing strategies of embodiment, viewer experience takes on added significance. Many contemporary memorial sites employ physical touchstones that evoke emotional experiences, giving viewers a deeper empathy for injustice or humanitarian tragedy. This visual essay examines design elements—such as architectural details and the placement of objects—that evoke embodiment at three sites: the Bisesero genocide memorial in Rwanda and the Apartheid Museum and Prestwich Memorial museum in South Africa. Each of these sites manifests design elements that encourage visitors to engage physically and emotionally with the victims of historical atrocities. Moving visitors beyond a detached, intellectual understanding of traumatic histories toward a physical/emotional engagement may engender a deeper connection with humanitarian tragedy and the struggle for healing and reconciliation.
‘Practices of self’: Embodied memory work, performance art, and intersectional activism in Namibia
Authors: Brandt Nicola
Published: May 2023

Cultural commemoration in the form of embodied memory was practiced in Namibia long before German colonial occupation in the 1880s and the War of Independence against South Africa from 1966 to 1989. In recent years, Namibian artists have been offering alternative forms of embodied memory transmission related to these histories. I argue that much of this work is inextricably linked to a new wave of decolonial activism in the country. These practices highlight questions related to history and memory and are a counterpoint to state-sanctioned memorialization. Some of the recurrent themes are efforts to work through traumatic legacies connected to German colonialism and apartheid, but also to intersectional violence tied to contemporary patriarchy and identity politics. In these settings, queer and feminist methodologies provide a departure point for this embodied memory work in an attempt to go beyond colonial and tribal legacies and nationalized identity politics.
Lubyanka: Dissonant memories of violence in the heart of Moscow
Authors: Comer Margaret
Published: May 2023

An infamous Soviet edifice, the Lubyanka’s yellow bulk still stands in central Moscow. The building is controlled by the federal security service (FSB), the contemporary security services, and the FSB provides no tangible acknowledgment of the building’s past. Yet, it is not erased; instead, the surrounding landscape has become a meaningful space for memorializing the victims of Soviet repression. Although the government’s official policy is to ignore or muffle the Lubyanka’s dark heritage, other actors have stepped in to interpret this painful legacy in various ways. This article examines different processes of heritagization and memory work within this “heritagescape.” It sheds light on the Lubyanka area’s polysemic meanings and sociopolitical roles in contemporary Russia, as well as the contested processes of heritagization and memorialization at sites of violence. It also introduces the idea of “accountability” as a concept that can be communicated at a heritage site, especially at times of increased state violence.
Acute otitis media
Authors: Parmanand Komal , Atfeh Mihiar
Published: May 2023

Otitis media is defined as a group of inflammatory conditions that affect the middle ear cleft; it consists of acute otitis media (AOM), otitis media with effusion, and chronic otitis media. These terms are often used interchangeably, but should be differentiated from one another by their clinical signs and symptoms, as well as the duration of disease, to ensure the correct diagnosis is reached. Correct diagnosis enables appropriate management of patients within the community, including urgent referral for ear, nose and throat review. This article focuses on the diagnosis and management of AOM for GPs.
Syndesmotic Suture Button Fixation Results in Higher Tegner Activity Scale Scores When Compared to Screw Fixation: A Multicenter Investigation
Authors: Obey Mitchel R. , Schafer Kevin , Matheny Lauren M. , McAndrew Christopher M. , Gardner Michael J. , Ricci William M. , Clanton Thomas O. , Backus Jonathon D.
Published: May 2023

Background

Suture buttons and metal screws have been used and compared in biomechanical, radiographic, and clinical outcome studies for syndesmotic injuries, with neither implant demonstrating clear superiority. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of both implants.

Methods

Patients who underwent syndesmosis fixation at 2 separate academic centers from 2010 through 2017 were compared. Thirty-one patients treated with a suture button and 21 patients treated with screws were included. Patients in each group were matched by age, sex, and Orthopaedic Trauma Association fracture classification. Tegner Activity Scale (TAS), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), patient satisfaction score, surgical failure, and reoperation rates were compared.

Results

Patients who underwent suture button fixation had significantly higher TAS scores than those who underwent screw fixation (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in FAAM ADL scores between cohorts (p = 0.08). Symptomatic hardware removal rates were similar (3.2% suture button cohort vs 9.0% in screw cohort). One patient (4.5%) underwent revision surgery secondary to syndesmotic malreduction after screw fixation, for a reoperation rate of 13.5%.

Conclusion

Patients with unstable syndesmotic injuries treated with suture button fixation had higher mean TAS scores compared to patients treated with screws. Foot and Ankle Ability Measure and ADL scores in these cohorts were similar. Level of Evidence: Level 3 Retrospective Matched Case-Cohort
Relationship between lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and prostate cancer: A persistent myth
Authors: Al-Zubaidi Mohammed , Hawks Cynthia , Fernando Sunimal , Moe Andrew , Swarbrick Nicole , McCombie Steve P , Brown Matthew , Hayne Dickon
Published: May 2023

Background:

The presence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) is described as an early symptom of prostate cancer in some patient guidelines; however, a statistical association has never been established.

Methods:

This study was conducted using a prospective electronic database at a single tertiary institution between January 2015 and November 2017. LUTS were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and prostate cancer was graded according to the International Society of UroPathologists (ISUP) grading system. The association between IPSS and Grade Group was tested using parametric one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc analysis using Tukey’s honestly significant difference (Tukey’s HSD).

Results:

A total of 611 men attended the One-Stop Prostate Clinic (OSPC) and IPSSs were available for 557 men. Overall, 46% had mild LUTS (IPSS: 1–7), 38% had moderate LUTS (IPSS: 8–19) and 16% had severe LUTS (IPSS: 20–35). Almost 85% proceeded to have transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) prostate biopsies, and clinically significant prostate cancer (CSPC) was detected in 37% with mild LUTS, 35% with moderate LUTS and 42% with severe LUTS. Correlation between histopathology and IPSSs was assessed in all 78.8% of men who had IPSS data available and underwent prostate biopsies.

Conclusion:

This large series did not establish any correlation between LUTS and prostate cancer in men undergoing investigation for the suspicion of prostate cancer.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Implementing ABC as Cost Management Model for the Human Resources Department: Evidence From a Romanian Entity
Authors: Florea Nicoleta Valentina , Ionescu Constantin Aurelian , Manea Marinela Daniela , Topor Dan Ioan , Capusneanu Sorinel , Coman Dan Marius , Stanescu Sorina Geanina , Coman Mihaela Denisa
Published: May 2023

The study proposes a cost management model for recruitment, selection, employment, and integration (RSEI), for the human resources (HR) department in order to identify the possibilities of cost optimization. The proposed model consisted of applying the activity-based costing (ABC) method, as a novelty in the HR field, by developing an algorithm for calculating the cost per employee. To observe the evolution of the analyzed RSEI process costs, the Pareto Chart and the Markov chain model were used. To verify the viability of the model, it was applied within an industrial company. The research results indicated that: in the recruitment process, the most consuming resource is the use of recruitment agencies (89.50% of the recruitment cost); in the selection process, the protocol consumes 66.80%; in the employment and payment processes, salaries consume 52.20%, and insurance taxes 34.80%; in the integration processes, the most consuming resources are tutors with overtime pay (63.30%). After identifying and quantifying the high costs, a plan of measures is drawn up to minimize costs. The study contributes to the RSEI cost literature and has practical implications for human resources practices and organizational performance. The analysis is limited to a few processes of HR, but these are the most consuming resources and the most important in recruitment. The model could be implemented as a future direction for other improvements of the HR processes (performance evaluation, dysfunctional social analysis, motivation, reward and compensation), career management analysis, or other company’s processes.
Parent and Child Depressive Symptoms and Authoritarian Parenting: Reciprocal Relations From Early Childhood Through Adolescence
Authors: Chad-Friedman Emma , Jordan Leslie S. , Chad-Friedman Simone , Lemay Edward , Olino Thomas , Klein Daniel N. , Dougherty Lea R.
Published: May 2023

We conducted cross-lagged panel models to examine reciprocal relations between parent and child depressive symptoms and authoritarian-parenting behaviors across development in a community sample of 599 youths (89.1% White, 7.7% Black/African American, 2.3% Asian, 0.7% multiracial/other; 65.3% had at least one parent with a 4-year college degree). Mothers and fathers completed self-report measures about their own depressive symptoms and authoritarian-parenting behaviors during the years their children were 3 to 15 years old. Child depressive symptoms were assessed with a developmentally appropriate semistructured clinical interview at all time points. Results demonstrated reciprocal pathways between maternal and child depressive symptoms from ages 3 to 15 years serial mediators. Moreover, although child depressive symptoms at age 3 years led to greater maternal and paternal negative authoritarian parenting from ages 3 to 15 years, these effects were not reciprocal. Pathways between paternal and child depressive symptoms were not observed. Our findings highlight the importance of examining reciprocal pathways to identify mechanisms in the development of depression within families.
Caregiver Awareness of Safe Pitching Recommendations in Youth Fastpitch Softball Pitchers
Authors: Kamarajugadda Sravya , Italiano Jack , Horodyski MaryBeth , Zaremski Jason L. , Pazik Marissa , Zeppieri Giorgio , Farmer Kevin W. , Brombacher-O’Connell Stephanie , Prine Bryan , Smith Michael Seth
Published: May 2023

Background:

Although fastpitch softball participation continues to rise, there is a lack of established pitch count guidelines, potentially putting young female athletes at risk of overuse injuries. In addition to coaches, caregivers’ ability to recognize and employ safe pitching guidelines plays an important role in athlete safety.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to assess caregivers’ knowledge of their child’s pitching practices and their familiarity with softball pitching recommendations. We hypothesized that caregivers would be unaware of safe pitching recommendations in youth fastpitch softball.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

A 30-question survey was distributed to caregivers of youth fastpitch softball pitchers in age groups 10U (ie, ≤10 years), 12U, 14U, 16U, and 18U. The survey included questions on the demographic characteristics of caregivers and athletes, caregivers’ knowledge of safe pitching recommendations, and athletes’ pitching background and throwing habits. Comparisons of responses between the age groups were conducted using the chi-square test, Fisher exact test, or 1-way analysis of variance, as appropriate.

Results:

A total of 115 caregivers completed the survey. Of the respondents, 84% were between 31 and 50 years, and 81.7% had a degree beyond high school. Only 28.1% of caregivers reported participating in youth sports. When asked to estimate the number of pitches they considered a safe amount during a single outing, 28.7% of caregivers (n = 33) did not provide a limit, 4.3% (n = 5) stated no limit was needed, 32.2% (n = 37) suggested 25 to 80 pitches, 21.7% (n = 25) suggested 81 to 100 pitches, 12.2% (n = 14) suggested 100 to 150 pitches, and 0.9% (n = 1) suggested that >150 pitches were acceptable. These data emphasized that only 14.8% of the caregivers were aware of any pitching guidelines. However, 93% of caregivers acknowledged that they would adhere to recommendations if guidelines were made available.

Conclusion:

The study findings demonstrated that a majority of caregivers are unaware of current youth fastpitch softball pitching recommendations.
International Merger and Acquisition: A Site of Interdisciplinary and Intertextual Discourse Activity
Authors: Townley Anthony
Published: May 2023

This ethnographic case study provides authentic insights into the intertextual negotiation processes for a particular merger-and-acquisition (M&A) transaction in the context of international legal practice, involving interdisciplinary legal and business professionals. Using genre and discourse analytical methodology, this study focuses on the interactional discourse practices and textual products used for negotiation of the primary sale and purchase agreement. By providing sociolinguistic insights into the M&A negotiation process, these research findings can promote a better understanding of the professional discourse activities and interactional role behaviors for this very important area of international business law practice.
Using Simulation in International Business Correspondence Courses for China’s English-Major Undergraduates
Authors: Xie Qing
Published: May 2023

This study reports an investigative study with 55 English-major participants in a Chinese university about using simulation in business English correspondence teaching. The study found that participants had strong needs in practical skills development and learning business English correspondence writing. The simulation approach was perceived to be effective and had positive learning outcomes in business communication skills development, motivation, confidence and vocabulary growth, business and language knowledge improvement, and more understanding about the business practice. The constraint factors in simulation included lack of business knowledge and vocabulary, ineffective group cooperation, and lack of understanding about the real-world business background.
Current clinical practices and challenges in molecular testing: a GOAL Consortium Hematopathology Working Group report
Authors: Lee Thomas D. , Aisner Dara L. , David Marjorie P. , Eno Celeste C. , Gagan Jeffrey , Gocke Christopher D. , Guseva Natalya V. , Haley Lisa , Jajosky Audrey N. , Jones Daniel , Mansukhani Mahesh M. , Mroz Pawel , Murray Sarah S. , Newsom Kimberly J. , Paulson Vera , Roy Somak , Rushton Chase , Segal Jeremy P. , Senaratne T. Niroshini , Siddon Alexa J. , Starostik Petr , Van Ziffle Jessica A. G. , Wu David , Xian Rena R. , Yohe Sophia , Kim Annette S.
Published: May 2023

While molecular testing of hematologic malignancies is now standard of care, there is variability in practice and testing capabilities between different academic laboratories, with common questions arising on how to best meet clinical expectations. A survey was sent to hematopathology subgroup members of the Genomics Organization for Academic Laboratories consortium to assess current and future practice and potentially establish a reference for peer institutions. Responses were received from 18 academic tertiary-care laboratories regarding next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel design, sequencing protocols and metrics, assay characteristics, laboratory operations, case reimbursement, and development plans. Differences in NGS panel size, use, and gene content were reported. Gene content for myeloid processes was reported to be generally excellent, while genes for lymphoid processes were less well covered. The turnaround time (TAT) for acute cases, including acute myeloid leukemia, was reported to range from 2 to 7 calendar days to 15 to 21 calendar days, with different approaches to achieving rapid TAT described. To help guide NGS panel design and standardize gene content, consensus gene lists based on current and future NGS panels in development were generated. Most survey respondents expected molecular testing at academic laboratories to continue to be viable in the future, with rapid TAT for acute cases likely to remain an important factor. Molecular testing reimbursement was reported to be a major concern. The results of this survey and subsequent discussions improve the shared understanding of differences in testing practices for hematologic malignancies between institutions and will help provide a more consistent level of patient care.
A T-cell-related signature for prognostic stratification and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma based on transcriptomics and single-cell sequencing
Authors: Chen Xu , Peng Chuang , Chen Yu , Ding Bai , Liu Sulai , Song Yinghui , Li Yuhang , Sun Bo , Yang Ranzhiqiang
Published: May 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most frequently diagnosed malignancy and the third leading cause of cancer death globally. T cells are significantly correlated with the progression, therapy and prognosis of cancer. Limited systematic studies regarding the role of T-cell-related markers in HCC have been performed.

Methods

T-cell markers were identified with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from the GEO database. A prognostic signature was developed with the LASSO algorithm in the TCGA cohort and verified in the GSE14520 cohort. Another three eligible immunotherapy datasets, GSE91061, PRJEB25780 and IMigor210, were used to verify the role of the risk score in the immunotherapy response.

Results

With 181 T-cell markers identified by scRNA-seq analysis, a 13 T-cell-related gene-based prognostic signature (TRPS) was developed for prognostic prediction, which divided HCC patients into high-risk and low-risk groups according to overall survival, with AUCs of 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years of 0.807, 0.752, and 0.708, respectively. TRPS had the highest C-index compared with the other 10 established prognostic signatures, suggesting a better performance of TRPS in predicting the prognosis of HCC. More importantly, the TRPS risk score was closely correlated with the TIDE score and immunophenoscore. The high-risk score patients had a higher percentage of SD/PD, and CR/PR occurred more frequently in patients with low TRPS-related risk scores in the IMigor210, PRJEB25780 and GSE91061 cohorts. We also constructed a nomogram based on the TRPS, which had high potential for clinical application.

Conclusion

Our study proposed a novel TRPS for HCC patients, and the TRPS could effectively indicate the prognosis of HCC. It also served as a predictor for immunotherapy.
Polygenic scores for estimated glomerular filtration rate in a population of general adults and elderly – comparative results from the KORA and AugUR study
Authors: Herold Janina M. , Nano Jana , Gorski Mathias , Winkler Thomas W. , Stanzick Kira J. , Zimmermann Martina E. , Brandl Caroline , Peters Annette , Koenig Wolfgang , Burkhardt Ralph , Gessner André , Heid Iris M. , Gieger Christian , Stark Klaus J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Polygenic scores (PGSs) combining genetic variants found to be associated with creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcrea) have been applied in various study populations with different age ranges. This has shown that PGS explain less eGFRcrea variance in the elderly. Our aim was to understand how differences in eGFR variance and the percentage explained by PGS varies between population of general adults and elderly.

Results

We derived a PGS for cystatin-based eGFR (eGFRcys) from published genome-wide association studies. We used the 634 variants known for eGFRcrea and the 204 variants identified for eGFRcys to calculate the PGS in two comparable studies capturing a general adult and an elderly population, KORA S4 (n = 2,900; age 24–69 years) and AugUR (n = 2,272, age ≥ 70 years). To identify potential factors determining age-dependent differences on the PGS-explained variance, we evaluated the PGS variance, the eGFR variance, and the beta estimates of PGS association on eGFR. Specifically, we compared frequencies of eGFR-lowering alleles between general adult and elderly individuals and analyzed the influence of comorbidities and medication intake. The PGS for eGFRcrea explained almost twice as much (R2 = 9.6%) of age-/sex adjusted eGFR variance in the general adults compared to the elderly (4.6%). This difference was less pronounced for the PGS for eGFRcys (4.7% or 3.6%, respectively). The beta-estimate of the PGS on eGFRcrea was higher in the general adults compared to the elderly, but similar for the PGS on eGFRcys. The eGFR variance in the elderly was reduced by accounting for comorbidities and medication intake, but this did not explain the difference in R2-values. Allele frequencies between general adult and elderly individuals showed no significant differences except for one variant near APOE (rs429358). We found no enrichment of eGFR-protective alleles in the elderly compared to general adults.

Conclusions

We concluded that the difference in explained variance by PGS was due to the higher age- and sex-adjusted eGFR variance in the elderly and, for eGFRcrea, also by a lower PGS association beta-estimate. Our results provide little evidence for survival or selection bias.
A new continuous noninvasive finger cuff device (Vitalstream) for cardiac output that communicates wirelessly via bluetooth or Wi-Fi
Authors: Gratz Irwin , Baruch Martin , Awad Ahmed , McEniry Brian , Allen Isabel , Seaman Julia
Published: May 2023

Background

The new noninvasive Vitalstream (VS) continuous physiological monitor (Caretaker Medical LLC, Charlottesville, Virginia), allows continuous cardiac output by a low pump-inflated, finger cuff that pneumatically couples arterial pulsations via a pressure line to a pressure sensor for detection and analysis. Physiological data are communicated wirelessly to a tablet-based user interface via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. We evaluated its performance against thermodilution cardiac output in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Methods

We compared the agreement between thermodilution cardiac output to that obtained by the continuous noninvasive system during cardiac surgery pre and post-cardiac bypass. Thermodilution cardiac output was performed routinely when clinically indicated by an iced saline cold injectate system. All comparisons between VS and TD/CCO data were post-processed. In order to match the VS CO readings to the averaged discrete TD bolus data, the averaged CO readings of the ten seconds of VS CO data points prior to a sequence of TD bolus injections was matched. Time alignment was based on the medical record time and the VS time-stamped data points. The accuracy against reference TD measurements was assessed via Bland–Altman analysis of the CO values and standard concordance analysis of the ΔCO values (with a 15% exclusion zone).

Results

Analysis of the data compared the accuracy of the matched measurement pairs of VS and TD/CCO VS absolute CO values with and without initial calibration to the discrete TD CO values, as well as the trending ability, i.e., ΔCO values of the VS physiological monitor compared to those of the reference. The results were comparable with other non-invasive as well as invasive technologies and Bland-Altman analyses showed high agreement between devices in a diverse patient population. The results are significant regarding the goal of expanding access to effective, wireless and readily implemented fluid management monitoring tools to hospital sections previously not covered because of the limitations of traditional technologies.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the agreement between the VS CO and TD CO was clinically acceptable with a percent error (PE) of 34.5 to 38% with and without external calibration. The threshold for an acceptable agreement between the VS and TD was considered to be below 40% which is below the threshold recommended by others.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis genotypes in an ethnically diverse area with millions of pilgrims and thousands of immigrants
Authors: Naseri-Nezhad Mostafa , Asadian Mahla , Khalifeh Gholi Mohammad , Yaseri Mehdi , Douraghi Masoumeh
Published: May 2023

Background

Immigration is considered as a risk factor of tuberculosis (TB). Qom province receives millions of pilgrims and significant numbers of immigrants each year. Most of the immigrants to Qom, arrive from neighboring TB-endemic countries. This study aimed to identify the current circulating Mycobacterium tuberculosis genotypes in Qom province using 24-locus MIRU-VNTR genotyping.

Methods

Eighty six M. tuberculosis isolates were collected during 2018–2022 from patients referring to Qom TB reference laboratory. The DNA of isolates was extracted and followed by 24 loci MIRU-VNTR genotyping which performed using the web tools available on MIRU-VNTRplus.

Results

Of 86 isolates, 39 (45.3%) were of Delhi/CAS genotype, 24 (27.9%) of NEW-1, 6 (7%) of LAM, 6 (7%) of Beijing, 2 (2.3%) of UgandaII, 2 (2.3%) of EAI, 1 of S (1.2%) and 6 (7%) did not match with profiles present in MIRUVNTRplus database.

Conclusions

About half of the isolates belong to Afghan immigrants; which warns health policy makers about the future situation of TB in Qom. Also, the similarity of Afghan and Iranian genotypes provides evidence that immigrants partake in the circulation of M. tuberculosis. This study underpin the studies about the circulating M. tuberculosis genotypes, their geographical distribution, the association of TB risk factors with these genotypes and the impact of immigration on the situation of TB in Qom province.