bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastroblastoma of the Pylorus: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: McCammon Nathan , Dunn Andrew , Graham Rondell , McHugh Jonathan , Lamps Laura , Bresler Scott C. , Cole Thomas , Rottmann Douglas
Published: February 2023

Gastroblastoma is an extremely rare biphasic tumor that typically occurs in the stomach in patients between the ages of 10 and 30. Only 16 cases have been reported previously. These tumors are important to diagnose and distinguish from more aggressive neoplasms; although numbers are small, prognosis appears excellent overall with complete excision, with only occasional metastasis and/or local recurrence. We report a case of gastroblastoma in a 26-year-old male arising from the pylorus and extending through the first and second portions of the duodenum. This is the first case to be reported from this specific location.
Blocking CD47-SIRPα Signal Axis as Promising Immunotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Luo Xukai , Shen Yini , Huang Wu , Bao Yiting , Mo Jiahang , Yao Liangqing , Yuan Lei
Published: February 2023

Among the three primary gynecological malignancies, ovarian cancer has the lowest incidence but the worst prognosis. Because of the poor prognosis of ovarian cancer patients treated with existing treatments, immunotherapy is emerging as a potentially ideal alternative to surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Among immunotherapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors have been the most thoroughly studied, and many drugs have been successfully used in the clinic. CD47, a novel immune checkpoint, provides insights into ovarian cancer immunotherapy. This review highlights the mechanisms of tumor immune evasion via CD47-mediated inhibition of phagocytosis and provides a comprehensive insight into the progress of the relevant targeted agents in ovarian cancer.
Beyond Evaluation: Using Equity Audits for Advanced-Level Programs
Authors: Jones Roberson Javetta
Published: February 2023

As gifted and advanced level leaders move to increasing efforts of inclusivity in their programs, there is a need to use evaluative measures focusing on equity for systemic change and growth. Equity Audits can provide leaders with a holistic perspective of their programming and how they can use the data to shift the culture, identify inequities and and address those inequities through intentional goal setting and problem solving for support. This article focuses on how gifted and advanced level leaders develop Equity Audits for their programs as a way to understand program data holistically, facilitate change and promote an overall sense of goal setting based on the well-being of students, teachers, and stakeholders who support their programs.
Code Switching and Gifted Students
Authors: Cross Tracy L.
Published: February 2023

Using examples of gifted students in specialized programs, the author discusses the phenomenon called “code switching.” Code switching is the name given to the process of alternating between one linguistic code and another. The author learned early on that most gifted students feel different from their nongifted peers, mostly about being more serious about learning, and develop social goals for themselves (standing out from others, blending in with others, disassociating from others). These goals guide their social coping strategies—behaviors to create a school environment that is relatively safe for them psychologically and potentially physically. The author concludes that code switching is an important skillset that can be taught and utilized effectively across a lifespan. The field of gifted education needs to support students with gifts and talents by more fully exploring code switching.
Evaluation of biliary toxicity in patients with hepatic artery infusion pumps
Authors: Elijah Joseph , Schepers Allison J , Krauss John C , McDevitt Rachel L
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Identify risk factors for biliary toxicity in patients with colorectal liver metastases who received floxuridine (FUDR) via a surgically implanted hepatic artery infusion pump (HAIP). Describe the incidence of biliary toxicity and evaluate relevant patterns in the biliary toxicity cohort.

Methods

A single center, retrospective, case-control study included adult colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases who received at least one cycle of FUDR via a surgically implanted HAIP from 1 January 2017, to 1 October 2021. Patients were excluded if they had incomplete records, cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis, or received concurrent mitomycin and FUDR. Biliary toxicity criteria derived from existing HAIP literature were utilized to determine whether patients experienced biliary toxicity. Multiple variables were compared by univariate statistical analysis between the biliary toxicity and non-biliary toxicity cohorts to identify potential risk factors for development of FUDR-induced biliary toxicity.

Results

Out of 50 patients who had a HAIP implanted, 39 met the inclusion criteria. Five of the 39 patients (12.7%) included in the analysis met the pre-specified biliary toxicity criteria. No risk factors for biliary toxicity were identified. All five patients who developed biliary toxicity demonstrated elevations in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) prior to meeting the toxicity criteria.

Conclusion

Biliary toxicity remains a significant and therapy-limiting consequence of FUDR administration. Rising ALP may be an early indicator of subsequent biliary toxicity. Future studies with more patients may identify risk factors that can facilitate risk mitigation strategies.
Should We Be More Mindful? The Joint Impact of an Abusive Work Environment and Mindfulness on Employee Well-Being and Turnover Intentions
Authors: Yang Wan , Xu Shi (Tracy)
Published: February 2023

Using social information processing theory, this study aims to examine the relationships among an abusive work environment, mindfulness, employee well-being, and turnover intentions. This study was conducted based on a quantitative survey of employees working in the lodging industry in the United States. The findings reveal the joint impacts of abusive supervision, abusive coworker treatment, and mindfulness on employee well-being and turnover intention. Specifically, the results show that mindfulness exacerbates the relation between abusive behaviors and employee well-being, providing evidence of a moderated mediation effect in the relationship between abusive supervision/coworker treatment and turnover intentions through employee well-being. This research contributes to the literature and theory by demonstrating the potential dark side of employees’ mindfulness.
Crushable polymer foam behavior at cold temperatures
Authors: Hoo Fatt Michelle S , Vedire Anudeep Reddy , Pakala Akshay Kumar
Published: February 2023

Experiments were conducted to characterize and develop predictive constitutive equations for the elastic-plastic, post-yield hysteresis behavior of Divinycell H100 foam at temperatures as low as −40°C. The initial elastic modulus and yield strength of the foam increased almost linearly by about 50% as temperatures decreased from 23 to−40°C. Post-yield hysteresis, which was described by strain hardening, viscoelasticity and damage also increased as the temperature fell to −40°C, but this behavior was curtailed by a sharp reduction in tensile and shear ductility as the foam approached its ductile-to-brittle transition temperature near −50°C. An anisotropic elastic-plastic, viscoelastic damage constitutive model was extended to predict cold temperature behavior. Good agreement was found between analytical predictions and the experimental results. The temperature-dependent constitutive equation can be used in conjunction with appropriate failure criteria to predict foam-core sandwich panel behavior in cold regions.
Y-shaped stenting of brachiocephalic vein in a symptomatic hemodialysis patient
Authors: Theodoridis Panagiotis G , Papachrysanthou Theodora , Politis Panagiotis , Iatrou Nikolaos , Bisdas Theodosios
Published: February 2023

Stenosis or obstruction of neck great veins represent a frequent and severe complication in hemodialysis patients. Endovascular treatment with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and/or stenting of these veins is the gold standard to restore patency. However, the jugular vein is frequently overstented in these cases and this might lead to persistent symptomatology of those patients also losing an access for future catheter placement. Herein, we present the 6-months performance of a Y-shaped stenting of the brachiocephalic and internal jugular vein leading to complete resolution of the symptoms, and maintenance of the jugular vein access.
Handwashing Practices and Associated Factors Among School Children in Kirkos and Akaki Kality Sub-Cities, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Melaku Abayneh , Addis Taffere
Published: February 2023

Background:

Provision of handwashing facilities and proper practices are essential for preventing fecal-oral and acute respiratory infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to assess availability of handwashing facilities and predictors to students’ good hygiene practices in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A mixed-methods study design was conducted in schools of Addis Ababa from January to March 2020 in 384 students, 98 school directors, 6 health clubs, and 6 school administrators. Data were collected using pretested interviewer-administered questionnaires, interview guide, and observational checklists. The quantitative data were entered into EPI Info version 7.2.2.6 and analyzed using SPSS 22.0. A bivariable at P < .2 and multivariable logistic regression analysis at P < .05 for quantitative and thematic analysis for qualitative data were used.

Results:

Handwashing stations were available in 85 (86.7%) of the schools. However, 16 (16.3%) schools had neither water nor soap near the handwashing facilities while 33 (38.8%) of schools had both. There was no high school that had both soap and water. Approximately one-third (135, 35.2%) of students practiced proper handwashing, among which 89 (65.9%) were from private schools. The handwashing practices were significantly associated with gender (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: (1.66-3.59)), having trained coordinator (AOR = 2.16, 95% CI: (1.32-2.48)) and health education program (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI: (1.73-3.59)), school ownership (AOR = 0.49, 95% CI: (0.33-0.72)), and training (AOR = 1.74, 95% CI: (1.82-3.69)). Water supply interruption, and lack of budget, adequate space, training, health education, maintenance, and coordination were the main barriers that prevent students from practicing proper handwashing.

Conclusions:

Handwashing facilities and materials provision and good handwashing practices of students were low. Moreover, providing soap and water for handwashing was insufficient to promote good hygiene practices. There should be regular hygiene education, training, maintenance, and better coordination among stakeholders to create a healthy school environment.
Monotherapy With a Non-Hormonal Centella Asiatica, Hyaluronic Acid, and Prebiotic-Based Vaginal Gel in Women With Bacterial Vaginosis: Case Series
Authors: Jodar Aaron , Soto Luis , Turell Eva , Cortés Javier
Published: February 2023

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) affects nearly one-third of women worldwide and may predispose patients to sexually transmitted infections or pelvic inflammatory disease. Currently recommended treatment is based on antibiotic use, which poses problems such as antibiotic resistance and the development of secondary vaginal candidiasis. Palomacare® is a non-hormonal vaginal gel containing hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica and prebiotics, with repairing and moisturizing properties used for dysbiosis healing as an adjuvant treatment. A series of 3 cases using the vaginal gel as a monotherapy showed that symptoms improved and even disappeared in women with initial or recurrent BV, suggesting that this vaginal gel is effective for BV monotherapy in women of reproductive age.
Intercultural insights on the impact of different non-idealized models on men’s body image and advertising perceptions
Authors: de Lenne Orpha , Mahon Ciara , Eggermont Steven , Smits Tim , Hevey David , Vandenbosch Laura
Published: February 2023

This experiment with 363 Irish and Flemish men aged 19 to 30 years ( M = 23.56, SD = 2.36) investigated exposure to different male model ads (i.e. muscular, slim, plus-size, overall diversity, and no models) on well-being (i.e. body image, low body fat and muscularity attitudes, self-objectification, and self-esteem) and advertising outcomes (i.e. ad attitudes, brand attitudes, and purchase intent). Moderation effects of country and masculinity (i.e. dominance, winning) were investigated. The diversity condition generated more positive effects for low body fat attitudes than the muscular, slim, and no model conditions. Yet, no differences appeared for this outcome between the diversity and plus-size condition. No effects for the other well-being and advertising variables were found. Moderation analyses revealed higher purchase intent in the slim condition for men high in dominance. No effects were found for country and winning. Findings suggest that non-idealized models have protective effects for some men.
Investigating the fresh and mechanical properties of wood sawdust-modified lightweight geopolymer concrete
Authors: Mehdi Nikoo , Ghazanfarah Hafeez , Iman Faridmer , Huseien Ghasan F , Bedon Chiara
Published: February 2023

Geopolymer concrete has developed as a potential alternative to ordinary Portland cement-based concrete, wherein various industrial by-products have been converted as beneficial spin-offs. Apart from appropriate compressive strength in the construction sector worldwide, the durability, sound absorption, thermal conductivity, and weight of concrete are also major concerns. Lightweight geopolymer concretes have gained attention because of their superior strength, durability, lower environmental impact, and sustainable characteristics. In this view, the current study examined the feasibility of using sawdust as a natural fine and coarse aggregate substitution in fly ash (FA)-granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) based geopolymer concrete. Four mixes with a different percentage of sawdust (25, 50, 75, and 100) substituting natural aggregate were designed to examine the effects of sawdust on fresh and hardened features of geopolymer concrete compared to those conventional FA-GBFS-based geopolymer concrete with natural aggregate. Sodium silicate (NS) and sodium hydroxide (NH) (with NS/NH ratio of 0.75) were utilized to dissolve the alumina silicate from FA and GBFS. Informational models were developed using an experimental dataset to estimate the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete mix designs. Besides, using the weight of the developed network, a global sensitivity (GS) analysis was developed to identify the sensitivity of compressive strength to the waste sawdust content. Test results confirmed that by substituting natural aggregate with 100% sawdust, there was around a 35% decrease in compressive strength. Nevertheless, the sound absorption coefficient was increased by an average of 38% in frequencies range between 1800 and 2500 HZ, and thermal conductivity decreased by around 4.5 times once the natural aggregate was substituted by 100% sawdust.
Performance Effects of Internal Market Orientation and Pricing Capability: The Moderating Role of Firm Innovativeness
Authors: Ranjan Piyush , Nayak Jogendra Kumar
Published: February 2023

This research intends to develop a conceptual framework for examining the distinct effects of internal market orientation and pricing capability on three categories of performance outcomes: customer performance, market performance, and financial performance. This study also explores the moderating influence of firm innovativeness on the relationship between internal market orientation and pricing capability. The partial least square structural equation modeling technique was applied to a cross-industry sample of 194 small and medium-sized enterprises in India. The findings indicate that internal market orientation contributes significantly to the development of pricing capability, which has positive effects on customer performance, market performance, and financial performance. Similarly, firm innovativeness positively moderates the relationship between internal market orientation and pricing capability. More interestingly, internal market orientation and pricing capability have substantial and differential effects on customer performance, market performance, and financial performance. Overall, these findings have substantial implications for theory and practice.
Analysis of the stick-slip behavior of coupled oscillators with dry friction
Authors: Amer Tarek S , Shaker Mohamed O , Dahab Hamouda A
Published: February 2023

In this study, a model of two nonlinear spring masses subjected to a smooth friction-velocity curve is examined. The second order governing system of motion is obtained in view of the system friction forces. This system is transformed to another suitable one of first order to investigate the points of equilibrium using Hurwitz’s theory. The excitation and critical stick-slip (SS) speeds are determined in accordance with the characteristic equation for the Jacobian matrix of the system. The stability and behavior of the system motion, along with the behavior of the SS movement, are examined. The effect of various parameters, such as excitation speed, damping and fraction coefficients, linear and nonlinear stiffness of springs, and masses that affect the motion and stability of the system is analyzed and studied. This research has numerous practical applications in a variety of industries, including airports, modern car brakes, well drilling, explaining and understanding seismic events, mechanical transportation, friction in bridges, and civil systems, which all exhibit impacted friction in dynamics and stick-slip phenomena.
Relationship between the family farmers’ entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
Authors: Balconi Silvana B , Dias Lopes Luis F , da Veiga Claudimar P , da Silva Wesley V
Published: February 2023

The entrepreneurial and innovative behavior of the small rural producer has been considered a way of boosting the sector and advancing research in rural studies. Given this scenario, analyzing the relationship between the entrepreneurial behavior of the small family farmer and innovation is an unexplored challenge in the literature. In order to shed light on this relationship, we conducted a systematic literature review by analyzing 100 of the most prominent articles published in the last decade (2010–2021) to answer how international scientific production is characterized and analyze the relationship between the entrepreneurial spirit of the family farmer and innovation. Our findings revealed expressive intermediaries that address the aforementioned correlation, expressing the centrality and intensity of the relationship between the terms of the formed textual corpus. By structuring and detailing the intellectual contribution of this study, it is possible to advance the knowledge on emerging themes. Understanding the innovative behavior of rural producers brings companies, universities, and governments closer to the reality of farmers, enabling projects designed for rural development to be implemented.
Critical social work in public social services: Poverty-aware organizational practices
Authors: Saar-Heiman Yuval , Nahari Mor , Krumer-Nevo Michal
Published: February 2023

Whereas some studies have addressed the conditions and practices required to infuse critical notions into the organizational context of public social services, there is a paucity of knowledge on what a critical public service can look like in actual practice. This article explores the possibility of applying critical theory and practice at the organizational level of public social services. It focuses on one social services department in Israel that underwent a six-year process of learning and implementing the Poverty-Aware Paradigm.

Findings

Based on an in-depth case study that combines ethnographic and participatory methods, we outline how critical ideas are translated to four organizational principles: developing a critical learning culture, acknowledging services users’ knowledge and skills, leading a critical discourse in the community, and poverty-proofing services and allocating resources to tackle poverty. Each of these principles is presented with derivative organizational practices and a detailed account of their implementation.

Applications

By broadening the framing of critical practice as an individual, street-level endeavor, the findings offer policymakers and public social services professionals an organizational model that mitigates the negative consequences of current neoliberal and managerial policies around the world.
Navigating the coronavirus pandemic 2 years on: Experiences of people with dementia from the British IDEAL cohort
Authors: Dawson Eleanor , Collins Rachel , Pentecost Claire , Stapley Sally , Quinn Catherine , Charlwood Catherine , Victor Christina , Clare Linda
Published: February 2023

Background and objectives

People with dementia have been affected in unique ways during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is not known whether the impact of the pandemic has changed with time or with the changes in social restrictions. This study explored how experiences of coping with the effects of the pandemic in the UK changed over time.

Research design and methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with people with dementia living in the community in England and Wales who had taken part in a qualitative interview at an earlier stage of the pandemic. We applied framework analysis to identify themes and compared these with interviewees’ previous accounts.

Findings

Nine people aged between 51 and 89 years were interviewed; four were female and five had early onset dementia. We identified three themes: 1. Navigating a changing world: Living with coronavirus; 2. A ‘downward spiral’: Managing advancing dementia; and 3. Availability, accessibility, and suitability of support. Findings reflect participants’ ongoing caution about re-emerging from social restrictions to resume valued activities, and how this led to coping behaviours to minimise the impact on wellbeing in the absence of formal support and services.

Discussion and implications

Despite easing of restrictions across the UK, the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic on people with dementia continues. Whilst individuals and services have adapted to some of the challenges, there is now an opportunity to rebuild support networks and services to ensure people with dementia are suitably advised, supported and socially engaged to allow them to live as well as possible.
Global Prevalence and Mental Health Outcomes of Intimate Partner Violence Among Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: White Sarah J. , Sin Jacqueline , Sweeney Angela , Salisbury Tatiana , Wahlich Charlotte , Montesinos Guevara Camila Margarita , Gillard Steven , Brett Emma , Allwright Lucy , Iqbal Naima , Khan Alicia , Perot Concetta , Marks Jacqueline , Mantovani Nadia
Published: February 2023

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the magnitude of the association between types of intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental health outcomes and shed light on the large variation in IPV prevalence rates between low- to middle-income countries and high-income countries. The study is a systematic review and meta-analysis. The following databases were searched for this study: Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and the Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts. The inclusion criteria for this study are as follows: quantitative studies published from 2012 to 2020 on IPV exposure in women aged 16+, using validated measures. Random effects meta-analyses and subgroup analysis exploring heterogeneity across population groups in different economic contexts are used in this study. In all, 201 studies were included with 250,599 women, primarily from high-income countries. Higher prevalence rates were reported for women’s lifetime IPV than past year IPV. Lifetime psychological violence was the most prevalent form of IPV. Women in the community reported the highest prevalence for physical, psychological, and sexual violence in the past year compared to clinical groups. Perinatal women were most likely to have experienced lifetime physical IPV. Prevalence rates differed significantly ( p = .037 to <.001) for “any IPV” and all subtypes by income country level. Meta-analysis suggested increased odds for all mental health outcomes associated with IPV including depression (odds ratio [OR] = 2.04–3.14), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (OR = 2.15–2.66), and suicidality (OR = 2.17–5.52). Clinical and community populations were exposed to high prevalence of IPV and increased likelihood of depression, PTSD, and suicidality. Future research should seek to understand women’s perspectives on service/support responses to IPV to address their mental health needs. Work with IPV survivors should be carried out to develop bespoke services to reduce IPV in groups most at risk such as pregnant and/or help-seeking women.
Porous, low thickness carbon-fiber reinforced epoxy composites with excellent flexibility and superior electromagnetic radiation protection
Authors: Tunakova Veronika , Tunak Maros , Novotna Jana
Published: February 2023

Fiber reinforced polymers, especially carbon fiber reinforced polymers, are expected in the future to contribute more than 50% of the structural mass of an aircraft. With increasing application and experience increased attention is paid to carbon-fiber reinforced composites with improved advanced properties, such as mechanical, structural and electrical, allowing them to displace the more conventional materials, such as metal alloys. In this paper, we used the Design of experiment methodology to investigate the design and properties of newly developed unique porous carbon-fiber reinforced composites intended for electromagnetic shielding purposes. The main goal was therefore to fabricate a composite with low thickness, high permeability to air and water vapor with a satisfactory ability to shield electromagnetic fields, whereas the investigation of the influential variables of the reinforcement and the investigation of the influence of the matrix on the overall shielding efficiency of the composite belongs to the sub-objectives. Furthermore, other important properties of the composites including heat and mass transfer, mechanical and electrical properties were evaluated. A quality index evaluation approach using weighted and normalized data was implemented to choose a composite with properties, which best fits to its intended use. The highest quality index was achieved by the composite containing reinforcement with warp and weft sett 18 dm−1 using carbon tape 2 mm wide. This composite provides electromagnetic shielding 36 dB at 1.5 GHz, having high air permeability 1000 mm/s, relatively low bending rigidity of around 2.5 Nmm and thickness of only 0.37 mm.
Did Payment Reform Lead to Patient Selection in Hip and Knee Arthroplasties? An Observational Study Using New York State Data
Authors: Kiani Sara N. , Maron Samuel Z. , Rosenzweig Shoshana , Zubizarreta Nicole , Poeran Jashvant , Moucha Calin S.
Published: February 2023

Background: While the comprehensive care for joint replacement (CJR) bundled payment program for total joint replacement (TJR) emphasizes value, concerns persist regarding unintended consequences, primarily hospital selection of healthier, younger patients. Purpose: We sought to assess changes in patient characteristics and outcomes after CJR implementation in New York State. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included primary total hip and total knee arthroplasties from the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database. Procedures performed before (July 2014 to March 2016; n = 58,610) and after (April 2016 to December 2017; n = 78,728) CJR implementation were compared. Primary outcomes were patient characteristics: Deyo-Comorbidity Index and age. Secondary outcomes were increased hospitalization cost, discharge to institutional post-acute care, and prolonged length of stay. A difference-in-differences analysis estimated changes after CJR implementation, comparing CJR to non-CJR hospitals. Results: We found that CJR implementation (in 49 of 144 New York State hospitals) coincided with slightly older and more comorbid TJR recipients. The CJR program coincided with significantly reduced hospitalization cost and discharge to institutional post-acute care but not length of stay. Some CJR effects appear to have affected non-Medicare patients, as well. Conclusion: This retrospective analysis suggests that in New York State, the CJR bundled payment program did not result in hospitals selecting younger and healthier TJR recipients and coincided with decreased costs and fewer discharges to institutional postacute care.
Fast luffing control of flexible boom of mobile elevated work platform with uncertain control input gain
Authors: Fang Xin , Zhang Jinsheng , Zhang Heng , Zhang Wenhao
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the dynamic model between input electric signal of hydraulic valve and boom luffing angle is established, and luffing control of flexible boom of mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) is studied. The control input gain for the luffing motion of the MEWP is extremely difficult to solve and varies with boom length, work platform load, and luffing angle. For the variable control input gain, all low-order state quantities, rigid-flexible coupling quantity, and control input are included as the “total disturbance” to be observed. Based on the third-order linear tracking differentiator and the first-order ordinary differential linear equation, an active disturbance rejection controller without control input gain is proposed. With the bandwidth-based parameter settings, the controller only needs to adjust two parameters. As a comparison, this paper analyzes in detail the proposed controllers, the fixed input gain active disturbance rejection controller and the PID controller in terms of tracking error, overshoot, setting time, tracking stability, and robustness.
Research on vehicle speed identification method based on time interpolation method and feature point recognition
Authors: Zhao Lili , Tang Yangshan , Wang Leilei
Published: February 2023

Based on camera calibration in detection area, an improved method of time interpolation for vehicle speed identification is proposed. Firstly, calibration of camera parameters during photogrammetry is carried out through preset rectangular detection area. Secondly, the key frames are extracted from the video images and the target vehicle feature points and their image coordinates are identified by the image morphological processing. Then the actual coordinates of the characteristic points are determined through the coordinate conversion. Finally, the improved time interpolation method considering the acceleration between frames is used to identify the vehicle speed, so as to improve the accuracy of the vehicle speed measurement. The results proved that the vehicle speed calculated by improved time interpolation method is more reliable, and the error is reduced by 0.7%.
Optimal allocation to treatment sequences in individually randomized stepped-wedge designs with attrition
Authors: Moerbeek Mirjam
Published: February 2023

Background/aims:

The stepped-wedge design has been extensively studied in the setting of the cluster randomized trial, but less so for the individually randomized trial. This article derives the optimal allocation of individuals to treatment sequences. The focus is on designs where all individuals start in the control condition and at the beginning of each time period some of them cross over to the intervention, so that at the end of the trial all of them receive the intervention.

Methods:

The statistical model that takes into account the nesting of repeated measurements within subjects is presented. It is also shown how possible attrition is taken into account. The effect of the intervention is assumed to be sustained so that it does not change after the treatment switch. An exponential decay correlation structure is assumed, implying that the correlation between any two time point decreases with the time lag. Matrix algebra is used to derive the relation between the allocation of units to treatment sequences and the variance of the treatment effect estimator. The optimal allocation is the one that results in smallest variance.

Results:

Results are presented for three to six treatment sequences. It is shown that the optimal allocation highly depends on the correlation parameter [Formula: see text] and attrition rate [Formula: see text] between any two adjacent time points. The uniform allocation, where each treatment sequence has the same number of individuals, is often not the most efficient. For [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], its efficiency relative to the optimal allocation is at least 0.8. It is furthermore shown how a constrained optimal allocation can be derived in case the optimal allocation is not feasible from a practical point of view.

Conclusion:

This article provides the methodology for designing individually randomized stepped-wedge designs, taking into account the possibility of attrition. As such it helps researchers to plan their trial in an efficient way. To use the methodology, prior estimates of the degree of attrition and intraclass correlation coefficient are needed. It is advocated that researchers clearly report the estimates of these quantities to help facilitate planning future trials.
Online disclosure, a mechanism for seeking informal justice?
Authors: Yalcinoz-Ucan Busra , Eslen-Ziya Hande
Published: February 2023

Recent scholarship considers digital platforms’ potential to serve as sites for feminist counter-spaces. ‘Speaking out’ or disclosing gender-based violence online allows survivors to give voice to their experiences and create a political arena for seeking informal forms of justice. What is significant in these instances is not a shift away from formal justice mechanisms but how the alternative ones take a survivor-focused approach to meet their needs and interests. The survivors who choose to disclose publicly – by describing their experiences in their own words – seek validation and solidarity and hold their perpetrators responsible for the harm they caused. Based on a multilevel justice approach, this research studies how – or whether – digital platforms enable community recognition and awareness regarding gender-based violence in Turkey. By exploring the experiences of six women from Turkey who were subjected to gender-based violence and disclosed online, we ask what justice means for our participants, why they chose to disclose digitally, and for what purposes. We consider their reasons for and experiences of such online disclosures and examine the extent to which these meet their justice needs. While it is evident that online spaces can function as sites of informal justice, it is vital to ask for whom and in which contexts justice can be achieved online. The data is analysed concerning the anti-gender resistance and the recent decline in human rights and judicial justice in Turkey.
(En)gendering change: Understanding the gendered dynamics of domestic abuse perpetrator programmes
Authors: Hughes Will
Published: February 2023

Drawing on extensive participant observation and interviews, this article considers the interactive dynamics of two group-based, probation domestic abuse perpetrator programmes. Specifically, the Integrated Domestic Abuse Programme and the Building Better Relationships Programme. Perpetrator groups are understood as involving collective emotions and understandings, which are continuously constructed and reconstructed through interactions. These interactions are highly gendered, reflecting men’s desires to present acceptable masculine identities and narratives, which they perceive as being threatened by their presence on a perpetrator programme. This article considers how gendered interactions take place within perpetrator groups, and calls for consideration of how they can support or undermine programme efficacy, and narratives of desistance.
Efficacy and safety of medical therapies in microscopic colitis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Kumar Aditi , Hiner George , Brookes Matthew J. , Segal Jonathan P.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The mainstay of treatment for microscopic colitis (MC) is budesonide. However, the optimal formulation and dosage of budesonide to induce and maintain remission has not yet been clearly demonstrated.

Objectives:

To compare the data for efficacy and safety of treatments to induce and maintain remission for MC.

Design:

We conducted a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing treatment with each other or placebo for induction and maintenance of clinical and histological remission in MC.

Data sources and methods:

We searched MEDLINE (1946 to May 2021), EMBASE and EMBASE Classis (1947 to May 2021), the Cochrane central register of controlled trials (Issue 2, May 2021) and conference proceedings between 2006 and 2020. Results were reported as pooled relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to summarise the effect of each comparison tested, with treatments ranked according to p score.

Results:

We identified 15 RCTs in total for the treatment of MC. Entocort 9 mg ranked first for clinical (RR: 4.89, CI: 2.43–9.83; p score: 0.86) and histological (RR: 13.39, CI: 1.92–93.44; p score 0.94) induction of remission, whilst VSL#3 ranked second for clinical induction (RR: 5.30, CI: 0.68–41.39; p score 0.81). Budenofalk 6 mg/3 mg alternate day dosing ranked first for clinical maintenance of remission (RR: 3.68, CI: 0.08–159.92, p-score 0.65). Entocort and Budenofalk were associated with the greatest adverse events for induction and maintenance of clinical remission, respectively, although the overall withdrawal numbers for treatment versus placebo groups were 10.9% (22/201) and 10.5% (20/190), respectively.

Conclusion:

Entocort 9 mg/day ranked first among the treatment options in inducing remission and Budenofalk 6 mg/3 mg alternate day dosing for maintaining remission in the treatment of MC. Moving forward, mechanistic studies exploring the differences between Entocort and Budenofalk would be valuable whilst future RCT studies are needed in non-corticosteroidal maintenance, particularly looking into immunomodulators, biologics and probiotics.
Quality of life with ribociclib versus abemaciclib as first-line treatment of HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer: a matching-adjusted indirect comparison
Authors: Rugo Hope S. , Harmer Victoria , O’Shaughnessy Joyce , Jhaveri Komal , Tolaney Sara M. , Cardoso Fatima , Bardia Aditya , Maheshwari Vikalp Kumar , Tripathi Sandeep , Haftchenary Sina , Pathak Purnima , Fasching Peter A.
Published: February 2023

Background:

A cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i) + endocrine therapy is recommended as first-line treatment for hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2−) advanced breast cancer (ABC). Quality of life (QoL) is an important endpoint that affects treatment decisions. Understanding the relevance of CDK4/6i treatment on QoL is gaining importance given use in earlier treatment lines for ABC and an emerging role in treating early breast cancer in which QoL may be more impactful. In the absence of head-to-head trial data, a matching-adjusted indirect comparison (MAIC) permits comparative efficacy between trials.

Objective:

In this analysis, patient-reported QoL for MONALEESA-2 [ribociclib + aromatase inhibitor (AI)] and MONARCH 3 (abemaciclib + AI) was compared using MAIC with a focus on individual domains.

Design:

An anchored MAIC of QoL comparing ribociclib + AI versus abemaciclib + AI was performed using data from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer quality of life questionnaire (QLQ)-C30 and BR-23 questionnaires.

Methods:

Individual patient data from MONALEESA-2 and published aggregated data from MONARCH 3 were included in this analysis. Time to sustained deterioration (TTSD) was calculated as the time from randomization to a ⩾10-point deterioration with no later improvement above this threshold.

Results:

Patients from the ribociclib ( n = 205) and placebo ( n = 149) arms of MONALEESA-2 were matched with patients from the abemaciclib ( n = 328) and placebo ( n = 165) arms of MONARCH 3. After weighting, baseline patient characteristics were well balanced. TTSD significantly favored ribociclib versus abemaciclib in appetite loss [hazard ratio (HR), 0.46; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.27–0.81], diarrhea (HR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.23–0.79), fatigue (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.41–0.96), and arm symptoms (HR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30–0.79). TTSD did not significantly favor abemaciclib compared with ribociclib in any functional or symptom scale of the QLQ-C30 or BR-23 questionnaires.

Conclusions:

This MAIC indicates that ribociclib + AI is associated with better symptom-related QoL than abemaciclib + AI for postmenopausal patients with HR+/HER2− ABC treated in the first-line setting.

Trial registration:

NCT01958021 (MONALEESA-2) and NCT02246621 (MONARCH 3)
‘I can’t draw, sing or dance to save my life!’: Educator and parent implicit theories of creativity
Authors: Fielding Katie , Maslin Kimberly , Murcia Karen
Published: February 2023

Creativity is recognised as a key facet of the suite of 21st century skills driving education worldwide. Understanding its existence outside of The Arts is vital for recognising young children’s creativity. However, what constitutes creativity and what it ‘looks like’ is not always clear. As a result, inconsistency and lack of efficacy when educators and parents attempt to encourage the development of young children’s creativity is possible. To investigate implicit theories of creativity relating to what creativity is and who is considered creative, parents and educators of four to eight-year-old children in four early learning contexts in Perth, Western Australia, were invited to complete a questionnaire. Findings suggest there may not be a strong tendency towards recognising creativity in The Arts but there may be an inclination to recognise eminent men’s creativity more than women’s. Additionally, there appears to be a lack of recognition of ‘daring’ as a creative behaviour.
Interruption of Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Frequency and Adverse Consequences
Authors: Markov Alexander M. , Krutilova Petra , Cedeno Andrea E. , McGill Janet B. , McKee Alexis M.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Removal of diabetes devices, including insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), is a common practice due to hospital policies, interference with imaging studies, medications, and surgical interventions. Furthermore, these devices are inherently prone to malfunction, adhesive failure, and issues with insertion that can lead to a reduction in wear time. Prescription and dispensing practices provide an exact number of sensors per month without redundancy to account for the realities of daily CGM use.

Methods:

A RedCap survey was completed by adult patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D or T2D) who utilize CGM followed in the Diabetes Center at Washington University in St Louis.

Results:

Of 384 surveys sent, 99 were completed. Participants had a mean age of 54 years, T1D 69%, female 70%, White 96%, non-Hispanic 96%, and a mean duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) 28 years. Of the cohort, 100% used CGM (80.2% Dexcom, 13.5% Freestyle Libre, 6.3% Medtronic), 61% insulin pump, and 41% Hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems. CGM-related disruption events included device malfunction (in 85.4% of participants), insertion problems (63.5%), and falling off (61.4%). Medical care–related disruption occurred most frequently in the setting of imaging (41.7%), followed by surgery/procedures (11.7%) and hospitalization (4.4%). Adverse glycemic events attributed to CGM disruption, including hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, occurred ≥4 times in 36.5% and 12.4% of the cohort, respectively.

Conclusions:

Disruption in CGM use is common. Lack of redundancy of CGM supplies contributes to care disruption and adverse glycemic events.
The EPPO’s material scope of competence and non-conformity of national implementations
Authors: Sicurella Rosaria
Published: February 2023

The choice in the EPPO Regulation to establish the material scope of the EPPO by referring to the provisions in the PIF Directive “as implemented by national law” implies that the exact scope of competence of this first European investigating and prosecuting authority finally arises out of national legislations. As a result, the latter becomes decisive in setting the boundaries of individual responsibility in the concrete case. As it was in the past under the force of the third pillar instruments, the level and quality of implementation at national level remain crucial. The first report of the Commission on the implementation of the PIF Directive did raise several critiques in this respect. As a matter of fact, a significant number of infringement proceedings have been launched by the Commission following the worrying findings of the Implementation Report on the PIF Directive. Before looking at the major situations of non-conformity of national legislations with the provisions in the PIF Directive, and the consequences for the effectiveness of EPPO investigations, the Author shortly exposes the main inherent weaknesses of the legal landscape defining the EPPO’s material scope, and the detrimental consequences that the present situation produces not only for the effectiveness of EPPO activities but also with respect to the position of the defendant.
Monaural auditory spatial abilities in early blind individuals
Authors: Finocchietti Sara , Esposito Davide , Gori Monica
Published: February 2023

Early blind individuals can localize single sound sources better than sighted participants, even under monaural conditions. Yet, in binaural listening, they struggle with understanding the distances between three different sounds. The latter ability has never been tested under monaural conditions. We investigated the performance of eight early blind and eight blindfolded healthy individuals in monaural and binaural listening during two audio-spatial tasks. In the localization task, a single sound was played in front of participants who needed to localize it properly. In the auditory bisection task, three consecutive sounds were played from different spatial positions, and participants reported which sound the second one was closer to. Only early blind individuals improved their performance in the monaural bisection, while no statistical difference was present for the localization task. We concluded that early blind individuals show superior ability in using spectral cues under monaural conditions.