bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and simulation of a 3D-printed wall-climbing robot for high-risk construction tasks
Authors: Huynh Tu A , Vo Kiet T , Nguyen Hoa-Cuc , Nguyen Ngoc-Duong , Pham Hung V , Nguyen Thanh Q
Published: November 2023

This study aims to design and calculate a model for a wall-climbing robot to replace humans in performing dangerous tasks at great heights in construction sites. The research simultaneously addresses three main issues in the process of calculation, design, and simulation of the vertically climbing robot model. Firstly, the study conducts calculations and analyzes the dynamics of the model in various working states. Specifically, it calculates the suction force of the fan in non-contact conditions to ensure the suction capability of the model during practical operations. Secondly, the core content of this method involves utilizing the airflow generated by the engine through a specially designed suction mechanism to increase the airflow velocity significantly, thus creating a low-pressure area capable of adhering to the wall. This suction force calculation method and other forces acting on the robot model are based on numerical simulation software. The boundary conditions in the calculation process for the wall-climbing robot model are derived from the tasks that the robot performs during real operations, replacing humans. Thirdly, the study designs the wall-climbing robot using the non-contact suction force method through a 3D-printed fan model to enhance the model’s durability and optimize the airflow under various conditions. In summary, through this research, the paper aims to construct a robot model using non-contact suction and complete it entirely with 3D printing technology. This model will generate cost-effective and highly efficient robot vehicles that can be widely applied in modern industrial environments.
Multi-objective optimization of cortical bone grinding parameters based on particle swarm optimization
Authors: Zheng Qingchun , Zhu Yuying , Fan Zhenhao , Wang Daohan , Zhang Chunqiu , Liu Shuhong , Hu Yahui , Fu Weihua
Published: November 2023

Grinding is a fundamental operation in craniotomy. Suitable grinding parameters will not only reduce force damage, but also ensure grinding efficiency. In this study, the regression equations of material removal rate and grinding force were obtained based on the theory of cortical bone grinding and full factorial test results, a multi-objective optimization based on the particle swarm algorithm was proposed for optimizing the grinding parameters: spindle speed, feed speed, and grinding depth in the grinding process. Two conflicting objectives, minimum grinding force and maximum material removal rate, were optimized simultaneously. The results revealed that the optimal grinding parameter combination and optimization results were as follows: spindle speed of 5000 rpm, feed rate of 60 mm/min, grinding depth of 0.6 mm, grinding force of 15.1 N, and material removal rate of 113.8 mm3/min. The parameter optimization result can provide theoretical guidance for selecting cortical bone grinding parameters in actual craniotomy.
The multi-objective optimisation design of outlet guide vanes of diagonal flow fan based on sobol sensitivity analysis
Authors: Mao Zijian , Luo Yu , Zhou Shuiqing , Jin Weiya , Feng Weiping
Published: November 2023

Diagonal flow fans offer substantial energy-saving potential and find broad application across various sectors. Their performance relies heavily on factors like outlet guide vanes and spacing relative to moving blades. However, research into enhancing fan performance through optimized guide vanes and spacing remains limited. In this study, we focus on improving the accuracy of predicting the internal flow field of diagonal flow fans. This paper incorporate rotation and curvature effects using the Large Eddy Simulation (LES) model and introduce stress terms with helicity constraints to create a non-linear subgrid-scale model. This refined model enables more precise numerical simulations. By employing accurate simulations, we optimize the outlet guide vane configuration and conduct sensitivity analysis. We utilize a Radial Basis Function (RBF) model coupled with the Sobol method for this purpose. The optimized guide vane design exhibits enhanced resistance to airflow separation compared to the original, resulting in notable reductions in flow losses within the grille channel. Experimental tests are performed on the diagonal flow fan both before and after optimization. At the specified operating point, the second guide vane optimization leads to a 1.28 m3/min increase in fan flow, a 4.33% rise in total pressure efficiency, and a 2.2 dB noise reduction. These findings underscore the accuracy of the helicity correction model in predicting diagonal flow fan behavior. The multi-objective optimization approach, combining the RBF proxy model with the Sobol method, proves highly reliable. It offers valuable design insights for similar fans and establishes a credible design methodology.
Neural network steering control algorithm for autonomous ground vehicles having signal time delay
Authors: Dinçmen Erkin
Published: November 2023

An adaptive neural network–based steering control algorithm is proposed for yaw rate tracking of autonomous ground vehicles with in-vehicle signal time delay. The control system consists of two neural networks: the observer neural network and the controller neural network. The observer neural network adapts itself to the system dynamics during the training phase. Once trained, the observer neural network cooperates with the controller neural network, which constantly adapts itself during the control task. In this way, an adaptive and intelligent control structure is proposed. Through simulation studies, it has been shown that while a proportional-integral-derivative type steering controller fails to perform its control task in case of steering signal delay, the proposed control algorithm manages to adapt itself according to the control problem and achieves reference yaw rate tracking. The robustness of the control algorithm according to the signal delay magnitude has been demonstrated by simulation studies. A rigorous Lyapunov stability analysis of the control algorithm is also presented.
GRg1 Ameliorates Insulin Resistance Through Activation of the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β Pathway in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Shen Xunjun , Jin Yamei , Chen Yuting , Yang Huadi
Published: November 2023

Background

Insulin resistance (IR) is a pathological state closely associated with various diseases, with hepatic insulin resistance playing a pivotal role. Insulin resistance can be improved by Ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1), which is known as one of the most biologically active compounds found in ginseng. Nevertheless, the precise role and mechanisms of GRg1 in ameliorating hepatic insulin resistance are still unknown.

Objectives

We wanted to demonstrate the impact of GRg1 on hepatic insulin resistance and explore the underlying mechanisms in our work.

Materials and Methods

We mimicked insulin resistance conditions by culturing HepG2 cells in 30 mM glucose for 24 h. The effects of GRg1 on cellular glucose consumption and the key kinases of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) pathway were evaluated. To assess if the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway is crucial for GRg1’s protective effect against insulin resistance, the compound LY294002, which inhibits PI3K, was employed.

Results

In HepG2 cells, GRg1 markedly increased glucose uptake while exhibiting no cytotoxicity. Additionally, GRg1 activated the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway, as indicated by the increased phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrates-1 (IRS-1), AKT, and GSK-3β. Treatment with LY294002 significantly reversed the promotive effects of GRg1 on cellular glucose consumption and PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway activation.

Conclusion

Taken together, our present study revealed GRg1 exerted a protective effect against hepatic insulin resistance induced by high glucose through PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β pathway, suggesting its potential as a beneficial therapeutic medication.
Exploring COVID-19 Vaccine Misinformation Exposure, Beliefs, Fear, and Information Avoidance via the Stimulus–Organism–Response Framework
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Lin Carolyn A. , Chen Hongliang
Published: November 2023

Empirical evidence generated from theory-driven research addressing the relationship between misinformation and vaccine information avoidance during a pandemic remains lacking. Using the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) framework, this study examined the influence of vaccine misinformation exposure and information overload on cognitive and affective responses as well as vaccine information avoidance behaviors. Findings showed that misinformation exposure predicted cognitive health beliefs (perceived vaccination barriers and benefits) and negative emotions (fear) toward the vaccines; health beliefs in turn predicted information avoidance. Information overload moderated (a) the relationship between misinformation exposure and health beliefs and (b) the relation between misinformation exposure and fear.
Onto-Epistemicide and the Research Ethics Board: Toward a Reflexive Ethics
Authors: Carozzi Giulia , Horner Lindsey K.
Published: November 2023

This article posits that current priorities of many research ethics boards make them a self-undermining entity in that they perpetuate the erasure of certain knowledges and with them the bodies subjectivities and subjects that live them. Through obscuring the history, geography and onto-epistemology of the assumptions underpinning ethical review these boards reproduce dominant Eurocentric and postpositivist assumptions about what is and isn’t valid or worthy research. Employing Santos’s notion of epistemicide and joining it with Barad’s ethico-onto-epistem-ology we explore how the instruments of “Ethics” act as a mechanism for reinforcing what Massey labels a dominant “geography of productions of knowledge”
Diversity and Inclusion in Mental Health: A Collaborative Online International Learning Experience
Authors: Hammonds Linda Sue , Newman Sara J
Published: November 2023

Graduate students in a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program in the United States and undergraduate students in a first-year English course, Writing and Rhetoric, at a university in Ecuador participated in a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experience in Fall Semester 2021. The purpose of the COIL experience was to develop global perspectives and cultural competencies regarding diversity and inclusion in mental health. The objectives of the COIL experience were to identify and discuss changes in thinking in four areas: eugenics and cultural bias, cultural bias in research, culture and mental illness, and institutional and care policies. Groups of students created educational posters about diversity and inclusion in mental health that were presented at a virtual mini conference to which other students and faculty at the participating universities were invited.
Teamwork Competencies and Their Influence on Health Literacy and Other Health Variables
Authors: Portela-Pino Iago , Sal-de-Rellán Alejandro , Lomba-Portela Lucía
Published: November 2023

The ability to work in a team is a skill of special relevance for multiple facets of life, increasing performance and optimizing the process in any task. This work aimed to study whether teamwork skills were related to different health variables. The sample consisted of 671 military personnel from the Spanish Army. The instrument is composed of the Health Literacy Questionnaire—the Teamwork Skills Questionnaire, and Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale. The study concludes that the level of teamwork skills of the military is high, as well as their level of health literacy and their self-perception of health. However, their self-esteem is medium. Teamwork competencies are positively associated with a higher level of health literacy, with a high self-perception of their health, with the level of physical activity and negatively with self-esteem and the number of hospital admissions.
Making the impossible possible? Framing confrontations of racism on social media as norm-setting
Authors: Coles Stewart M , Lane Daniel S
Published: November 2023

Although confronting racist speech online can reduce future discriminatory behavior, people may be reluctant to confront because they perceive that it will be ineffective in changing racist attitudes. We test one theoretically grounded strategy for increasing white social media users’ willingness to confront online racism: reframing the confrontation goal from attitude change to norm-setting. We examine whether re-framing the confrontation goal in this way is effective under conditions where confrontation is least likely: (a) when the potential confronter is highly cynical about the efficacy of political discussions and (b) when the confrontation target is relationally distant. In a two-wave panel survey experiment collected during the 2020 US presidential election, participants reported greater likelihood of confronting a target when the goal was to set norms regarding racist speech, when they were less cynical of discussions, and when the target was relationally closer to them (e.g. family members as opposed to strangers).
A space of appearance: Romani publics and privates in the Middle East
Authors: Roy Arpan
Published: November 2023

This article reads the emergence of a Romani political space in Jordan, and its containment in the private sphere in Palestine, through Hannah Arendt's classic The Human Condition. In modernity, Arendt argues, political potential has been stifled by a kind of despotism best characterized by a masculine domination associated with the private sphere of the family. Given that such a position is to a great extent based on Arendt's reading of Classical Greek, Roman, early Christian, and Enlightenment thought, what variations to such a neat division can be found in the case of Romani groups in Arab/Islamic contexts that are beyond Arendt's geographic and epistemological scope? This article puts Arendt's idealized notion of the public/private into conversation with the longue durée of settlement and politics of Romani groups in Palestine and Jordan. Working with Arendt and alternate but related notions of the public/private in the Middle East, this article aims to offer a nuanced understanding of kinship and politics in a context in which the political is incomplete without the private.
Silencing journalists in matters of public interest: Journalists and editors assessments of the impact of SLAPPs on journalism
Authors: Kerševan Tanja , Poler Melita
Published: November 2023

This study builds on the hierarchy of influences model and the concept of the chilling effect to investigate how strategic lawsuits against public participation (SLAPPs) affect journalism, directly and indirectly. Based on the semi-structured interviews with Slovenian journalists and editors targeted by SLAPPs, and with their newsroom colleagues, it reveals inconsistencies between the respondents’ expressed awareness of the impact of SLAPPs on their work and their perception of the broader impacts. By examining how SLAPPs interact with the various professional and personal circumstances of journalists and editors, and with the political, economic and regulatory context, toward a potentially deterring outcome, the article contributes evidence on factors that strengthen or mitigate the possible chilling effect of SLAPPs, for both targeted and non-targeted journalists and editors. The research findings add to the empirical knowledge of the emerging body of research on SLAPPs in anticipation of European and national anti-SLAPP regulation.
Social policy as knowledge process: How its sociotechnical links to labour reconfigure the social question
Authors: Lammer Christof
Published: November 2023

The relationship between labour and social policy is at the heart of the social question. Scholars often treat this link as either a causal relation out there or a conceptual connection in policy makers’ minds. This article examines its sociotechnical materiality instead. It follows anthropologists who ask how bureaucrats practice policy and scholars of science and technology studies who explore how social and technical aspects are interrelated in knowledge processes. China studies has suggested that the minimum livelihood guarantee ( dibao) was originally designed as a market-oriented response to transformations of labour such as mass layoffs, peasant proletarianisation and associated unrest but later revamped to only combat extreme poverty. Ethnographic insights into dibao policy in a village in Sichuan show how its designed links to labour were erased and transformed through different methods of bureaucratic targeting, as well as expectations about the bureaucratic ability to know. For a time, dibao was even integrated into alternative rural development projects aimed at decommodification. Studying social policy as a knowledge process uncovers how its sociotechnical links to labour reconfigure it as an answer to the social question.
Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty of Infrapopliteal Lesions in Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia: Six-month Outcomes of PRIME-WIFI
Authors: Guo Julong , Ye Meng , Zhang Wei , Wu Ziheng , Feng Zibo , Fang Xin , Li Qiang , Sang Hongfei , Shi Zhenyu , Shi Weihao , He Chunshui , Gao Xixiang , Guo Jianming , Tong Zhu , Gu Yongquan , Guo Lianrui
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

To evaluate 6-month outcomes of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI).

Methods:

We analyzed 6-month follow-up data from the 10-center PRIME-WIFI prospective registry on 300 consecutive patients (33.000% female) with CLTI who underwent DCB angioplasty for infrapopliteal arterial lesions. The primary outcome was freedom from major adverse event (MAE), a composite of major amputation, all-cause death, and clinically-driven target limb reintervention (CD-TLR). Secondary outcomes included amputation-free survival (AFS), freedom from each primary outcome component, primary sustained clinical improvement, and quality of life (QOL) score. Independent risk factors of MAE were determined using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 409 infrapopliteal lesions in 312 limbs were treated with DCB, with 54.167% of the limbs being treated for isolated infrapopliteal lesions. By Kaplan-Meier analysis, at 6 months post- procedure (follow-up rate, 85.000%), freedom from MAE was 86.353%; AFS was 90.318%; and freedom from major amputation, all-cause death, and CD-TLR were 96.429%, 93.480%, and 95.079%, respectively. At 6-month follow-up, 83.590% of patients showed primary sustained clinical improvement, and QOL score (4.902±1.388) improved compared with that before procedure (2.327±1.109; p<0.001). Chronic renal insufficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Rutherford grade, and postoperative infrapopliteal runoff score were independent risk factors for MAE within 6 months.

Conclusion:

In CLTI, DCB angioplasty of infrapopliteal lesions yields acceptable early efficacy and safety.

Clinical Impact

This study evaluated the 6-month outcomes of DCB angioplasty in infrapopliteal lesions in CLTI patients by analyzing multicenter prospective data, showing that infrapopliteal DCB angioplasty can be performed with acceptable freedom from MAE rate, amputation-free survival rate, freedom from major amputation rate, survival rate, and freedom from CD-TLR rate. No patient experienced DCB-related intraoperative distal embolism. Chronic renal insufficiency, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Rutherford grade and postoperative infrapopliteal runoff score were independent risk factors for MAE within 6 months. Comparative real-world studies are needed.
AMPAkines have site-specific analgesic effects in the cortex
Authors: Zhu Elaine , Mathew Dave , Jee Hyun Jung , Sun Mengqi , Liu Weizhuo , Zhang Qiaosheng , Wang Jing
Published: November 2023

Different brain areas have distinct roles in the processing and regulation of pain and thus may form specific pharmacological targets. Prior research has shown that AMPAkines, a class of drugs that increase glutamate signaling, can enhance descending inhibition from the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and nucleus accumbens. On the other hand, activation of neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is known to produce the aversive component of pain. The impact of AMPAkines on ACC, however, is not known. We found that direct delivery of CX516, a well-known AMPAkine, into the ACC had no effect on the aversive response to pain in rats. Furthermore, AMPAkines did not modulate the nociceptive response of ACC neurons. In contrast, AMPAkine delivery into the prelimbic region of the prefrontal cortex (PL) reduced pain aversion. These results indicate that the analgesic effects of AMPAkines in the cortex are likely mediated by the PFC but not the ACC.
Characteristics of clients entering women-only substance use treatment services in New South Wales
Authors: Uthurralt Natalia , Miao Cao Felicia , Reid Sharon E , Nithyanandam Latha , Burns Lucy , Day Carolyn A
Published: November 2023

Background:

Women experiencing substance use disorders face barriers to treatment, including childcare, stigma and lack of gender/trauma-informed programming. Several non-government organizations in New South Wales run women-only treatment services to address these needs.

Objectives:

We aim to assess characteristics of women entering treatment in these services.

Design:

Data on client characteristics from six women-only non-government organization substance use disorder treatment services in New South Wales between 2014 and 2018 were extracted from a database containing demographics, drug use and treatment characteristics and psychological distress (Kessler-10 scale) of women entering the services. Logistic regression models were used to estimate unadjusted odds ratio and adjusted odds ratio for treatment completion and different drugs on entry.

Results:

Data were available for 1357 women. Most (91%) episodes were for residential treatment. Women’s mean age was 35.4 years (standard deviation = 9.8; range = 17–67). Residential clients tended to be younger than non-residential clients (35.1 vs 38.5 years, p < 0.001). Methamphetamine (43%) and alcohol (32%) were the most reported principal drug of concern. Women (89%) reported high levels of psychological distress (median Kessler-10 scale score = 27.5, range = 10–50), highest for women reporting alcohol as their principal drug. Overall, 43% of episodes resulted in treatment completion, most commonly for women entering residential treatment (45% vs 22%, p < 0.001) and for alcohol treatment (adjusted odds ratio = 1.42; confidence interval = 1.07–1.90; p < 0.001). Women with Kessler-10 scale scores indicating anxiety or depression at treatment entry were less likely to complete treatment than those with lower scores (adjusted odds ratio = 0.56; confidence interval = 0.38–0.80; p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Women entering women-only residential treatment tend to be younger and report methamphetamine as principal drug of concern. Women enter treatment with high degrees of psychological distress. Women’s services need to ensure their programmes can respond to diverse needs of younger women presenting with methamphetamine use disorder and older women with alcohol use disorder experiencing high levels of psychological distress.
Flight dynamics model identification of a meso-scale twin-cyclocopter in hover
Authors: Runco Carl , Benedict Moble
Published: November 2023

In this paper the flight dynamics of a 33-gram twin-cyclocopter is analyzed via deriving a Linear Time Invariant (LTI) dynamics model from flight test data. The twin-cyclocopter is a novel micro air vehicle that uses two co-rotating cycloidal rotors to generate thrust and a coaxial nose rotor to counteract the reaction torque and provide additional thrust. During flight tests, perturbation maneuvers were performed about the hovering state to excite different modes and a 3D motion capture system collected attitude and position data. The data was used to extract a bare airframe LTI model linearized about the hovering state using time-domain system identification techniques. The model demonstrated that the roll and yaw modes are gyroscopically coupled with stable high-frequency and low-frequency modes. Comparing the two different yaw control methods: thrust vectoring of the cycloidal rotors and differential torque of the coaxial nose rotor, the former was more effective.
Talocrural Arthrodesis Increases Osteoarthritis Severity in Adjacent Joints: A Midterm Computed Tomography Follow-Up Study
Authors: Willems Annika , Minnaard Mauro , Oei Edwin H.G. , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A. , Meuffels Duncan E.
Published: November 2023

Background

After talocrural arthrodesis, adjacent joints (subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid) are often affected by osteoarthritis (OA)). It is unclear if OA is pre-existing to talocrural arthrodesis, or whether it develops after talocrural arthrodesis. This retrospective study is unique because it is the first study with preoperative and follow-up computed tomography (CT). The aim of this study is to investigate whether OA develops in adjacent joints after talocrural arthrodesis or if OA is already pre-existing. In addition, associations between degree of OA and patient-reported outcomes are investigated.

Methods

Patients were selected from electronic files, and adjacent joint OA was assessed on preoperative CT and bilateral follow-up CT. Patient-reported outcomes were collected.

Results

Twenty-three patients were included with an average follow-up time of 7 years (SD = 2). In participants without pre-existing OA, OA significantly progressed in all adjacent joints. In participants with pre-existing OA, OA progressed in the subtalar joint. Patient-reported outcomes were not correlated to OA.

Conclusions

Osteoarthritis in the adjacent joints progresses after talocrural arthrodesis, especially in participants without pre-existing OA. The severity of OA is not related to patient-reported outcomes. Therefore, the clinical impact of the progression of OA seems to be limited.

Level of Evidence:

Level III: retrospective
A Wellness Tourism Initiative to Alleviate Poverty Among Women
Authors: Dev Chekitan S.
Published: November 2023

This wellness tourism initiative is aimed at helping poor women in developing regions and countries escape from persistent poverty. The initiative is grounded in five key themes: (a) limited opportunities for women, due primarily to social and cultural constraints, to become productive members of the economy; (b) the dramatic growth in special interest travel, especially travel as it relates to health, wellness, and culinary tourism; (c) the increasing use of natural treatments and diets in developed countries to help people cope with stress and other ailments as an alternative to “modern” medicine with its myriad side effects; (d) the popularity of micro credit as a financing vehicle for incubating small businesses; and (e) the integration of the global supply chain making it easy to move materials across borders. At the confluence of these five themes lies an opportunity for poor women to create value with their traditionally endowed skills and abilities. In this concept note, I describe my vision for this idea, briefly go into each of these themes, and suggest how they may be combined in a novel and interesting way to give poor women an opportunity to climb out of poverty by doing well and doing good at the same time.
Symptomatic Non-stenotic Atherosclerotic Disease in Small Subcortical Infarcts: A North American Pilot Study
Authors: Goldstein Eric D. , Yaghi Shadi
Published: November 2023

Recent small subcortical infarcts (SSI) are a common radiographic predecessor to lacunar stroke. SSI is comprised of several pathophysiologic processes such as branch atherosclerotic disease (BAD) and lipohyalinosis, both of which have differing outcomes and natural history. Presently, there is not a proven method to determine whether a SSI is due to BAD or lipohyalinosis in non-stenotic vessels. However, high-resolution vessel wall imaging (HRVWI) has been reported in East Asian cohorts. We aimed to use HRVWI to identify individuals with BAD-related SSI in a North American cohort. We performed a cross-sectional study from the Rhode Island Hospital. All patients had a SSI as defined by consensus criteria. The presence of vessel wall enhancement of parent vessels were reviewed by two authors. Standard descriptive statistical techniques were used. Of 28 patients who underwent HRVWI, 7 met criteria for SSI. The median age was 68 years and 3 were female. Parent vessel wall enhancement was present in 2 patients. In our North American cohort, HRVWI was able to dichotomize individuals based on parent vessel wall enhancement suggestive of a BAD-related SSI. Further studies are needed to expand our cohort size and confirm our findings.
Enhancing hospital course and outcome prediction in patients with traumatic brain injury: A machine learning study
Authors: Zhu Guangming , Ozkara Burak B , Chen Hui , Zhou Bo , Jiang Bin , Ding Victoria Y , Wintermark Max
Published: November 2023

Purpose

We aimed to use machine learning (ML) algorithms with clinical, lab, and imaging data as input to predict various outcomes in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients.

Methods

In this retrospective study, blood samples were analyzed for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1). The non-contrast head CTs were reviewed by two neuroradiologists for TBI common data elements (CDE). Three outcomes were designed to predict: discharged or admitted for further management (prediction 1), deceased or not deceased (prediction 2), and admission only, prolonged stay, or neurosurgery performed (prediction 3). Five ML models were trained. SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analyses were used to assess the relative significance of variables.

Results

Four hundred forty patients were used to predict predictions 1 and 2, while 271 patients were used in prediction 3. Due to Prediction 3’s hospitalization requirement, deceased and discharged patients could not be utilized. The Random Forest model achieved an average accuracy of 1.00 for prediction 1 and an accuracy of 0.99 for prediction 2. The Random Forest model achieved a mean accuracy of 0.93 for prediction 3. Key features were extracranial injury, hemorrhage, UCH-L1 for prediction 1; The Glasgow Coma Scale, age, GFAP for prediction 2; and GFAP, subdural hemorrhage volume, and pneumocephalus for prediction 3, per SHAP analysis.

Conclusion

Combining clinical and laboratory parameters with non-contrast CT CDEs allowed our ML models to accurately predict the designed outcomes of TBI patients. GFAP and UCH-L1 were among the significant predictor variables, demonstrating the importance of these biomarkers.
Percutaneous removal and replacement of a novel percutaneous interspinous device
Authors: Marcia Stefano , Hirsch Joshua Adam , Bellini Matteo , Manfré Luigi , Masala Salvatore , Zini Chiara
Published: November 2023

Objective: The aim of this study is to explain the technique used for removing and replacing a novel percutaneous interspinous device (PID).

Procedure: Three male patients, with a mean age of 66 years (range 62–72), were included in the study due to displacement ( N = 2) or misplacement ( N = 1) of the novel PID. This occurred after a mean of 23.3 ± 10.5 days from the initial placement (range 13–34) at the L4–L5 level ( N = 1) and L3–L4 level ( N = 2). Following the removal of the PID, four new devices were implanted.

Conclusion: The novel PID can be safely removed either immediately after its placement during the procedure or after a certain period of days or months from its implantation. The removal procedure can be performed percutaneously under imaging guidance, by closing the four retractable wings, using the same instrumentation as utilized during the initial implantation.
When in China, don’t drink because the Chinese no longer do
Authors: Sin Harng Luh
Published: November 2023

This commentary responds to Jayne and Valentine's (2024) call to rethink the geographies of alcohol, drinking, and drunkenness. It introduces recent observations on the prevalence and absence of alcohol drinking within academic research and workspaces in China, and in doing so highlights how a relational approach to the geographies of alcohol is needed in overcoming existing impasses in alcohol studies.
Deciding on cloud-managed services: The cloud trilemma
Authors: Acton Thomas , Datta Pratim Milton , Golden Willie
Published: November 2023

The phenomenal growth in cloud managed services (i.e. provisioning) is evident. But, despite the burgeoning cloud provisioning marketplace, cloud provisioning comes in various forms. Therefore, companies need to carefully and deliberately consider their cloud-managed service choices. This teaching case, using the context of Telecom companies’ (Telcos) billing services provisioning, not only highlights various provisioning engagement models but also surfaces an interesting trilemma, competing facets, that companies need to consider as they embark upon and expand upon their existing services portfolio.
Academic Staff Engagement in Research and Its Relation to Classroom Teaching in Public Universities in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Gashe Alem Amsalu
Published: November 2023

This study’s primary objective was to investigate the existing context of academic staff engagement in research and its relation to classroom teaching at public higher institutions located in the Amhara national regional state. A cross-sectional type of survey design was used to achieve this objective. The sample units and individuals were chosen using stratified random sampling procedure. Injibara University, Debre Markos University, and Bahir Dar University were three sample public universities located in Amhara Regional State that provided 251 participants for the study. A survey questionnaire was used to obtain the data. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to assess the data that had been gathered. The findings showed that the sample universities had very low levels of academic staff engagement in research activities. Most importantly, the results of this study also showed a weak but negative correlation between academic staff engagement in research and classroom teaching. Finally, possible recommendations were made based on the key results and conclusions.
“Can We Get an Ideal Job?”: The Distribution and Influencing Factors of the Occupational Stratum of Chinese College Graduates
Authors: Yu Shuo , Liu Ying , Guo Rui , Chen Zhiwei
Published: November 2023

In recent years, Chinese college graduates have faced a challenging employment situation, calling for an analysis of the social stratification function of higher education. This paper used linear regression to analyze factors influencing the occupational status attainment of college graduates. The social stratification function of higher education was found to be significant. Educational factors were essential for occupational status attainment. Nevertheless, new graduates’ occupational status could also be affected by individual and family factors. On the whole, college graduates achieved stratum promotion. Men had higher occupational status and longer mobility distance than women, and rural graduates had higher occupational status and longer mobility distance than urban graduates.
Rhabdomyosarcoma or Fibrosarcoma? A Case of Large Ulcerated and Necrotic Lesion on the Forearm of a Newborn
Authors: Soqia Jameel , Aloqla Nizaar Adnan , Janoud Omran , Al-shafie Mohammed , Nader Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Congenital infantile fibrosarcoma (CIFS) is a rare malignant soft tissue tumor. The incidence of fibrosarcoma is estimated to be 0.3 per 100 000 population per year, and it accounts for less than 1% of all soft tissue sarcomas. We present a case of a 7-day-old newborn with a large ulcerated and necrotic lesion on the left forearm, which was initially misdiagnosed as rhabdomyosarcoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a soft tissue mass with cystic components affecting the forearm and distal humerus muscles. Fine-needle biopsy was performed and initially diagnosed as rhabdomyosarcoma but later confirmed as low-grade fibrosarcoma with positive immunostaining for vimentin. The patient underwent a transhumeral amputation with follow-up chemotherapy at a specialized oncology center. This case underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and specialized care in managing complex medical conditions in infants. Early detection and appropriate management of these tumors are essential for improving outcomes and reducing morbidity and mortality. Despite the rarity of this case, it serves as a reminder of the importance of considering neoplastic lesions in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue masses in newborns.
Relationship between 1-, 3-, and 6-Month Gingival Bleeding Outcomes
Authors: He T. , Grender J. , Farrell S. , Biesbrock A.R.
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Results from systematic reviews and meta-analyses show generally consistent antigingivitis effects between 3- and 6-mo observation time points with twice-daily use of stannous fluoride (SnF2) dentifrice. However, the relationship between 1-, 3-, and 6-mo gingivitis responses has not been investigated.

Methods:

This pooled analysis was conducted to understand the relationship of 1-, 3-, and 6-mo gingival bleeding outcomes. Number of bleeding sites, derived from Löe-Silness Gingival Index (LSGI) or Gingival Bleeding Index, was identified as the primary end point of the analysis for the biological and clinical relevance. Randomized, double-blinded, controlled clinical studies meeting the following predefined selection criteria were identified: 1) published and unpublished gingivitis clinical trials conducted from 1995 to 2022 comparing efficacy of 0.454% SnF2 dentifrices to negative controls (sodium fluoride or sodium monofluorophosphate dentifrice) and 2) studies with a 3-mo assessment and at least a 1- or 6-mo assessment.

Results:

The search resulted in ten 6-mo and fourteen 3-mo studies meeting selection criteria. A mixed-effects model was performed on the pooled data to assess gingival bleeding outcomes across time. The bleeding efficacy significantly increased between months 1 and 3 (P < 0.0001) and plateaued between months 3 and 6 (P = 0.007), supporting the fact that bleeding reduction relative to control established by 1 mo will increase and be maintained through 3 and 6 mo (R2 = 0.857). In addition, gingival bleeding and gingivitis efficacy, as measured by LSGI, were found to be highly correlated (R2 = 0.874).

Conclusion:

A clear relationship has been demonstrated between 1-, 3-, and 6-mo gingival bleeding outcomes in gingivitis clinical studies comparing SnF2 dentifrice to negative control dentifrice. These findings have important implications to the dental practice and scientific research as antigingivitis efficacy evaluations can be observed as early as 1 mo and are consistent with those seen at 3 or 6 mo.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Outcomes from this investigation indicate that the clinical evaluation of antigingivitis efficacy at 1 mo is predictive of that at 3 and 6 mo, supporting studies of 1-mo duration as a viable method of knowledge acquisition. This more efficient, expedited research design has positive implications for patient care, clinical practice guidelines, protocols, and policies.
The Influence of Psoriasis on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patient Profiles: A National Inpatient Sample Study
Authors: Kodali Nilesh , Blanchard Isabella , Kumar Keshav D. , Zaino Mallory , Feldman Steven R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Psoriasis is believed to be a common comorbidity of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Little is known on the impact psoriasis has on T2DM patients’ disease profiles.

Objective

To assess the impact psoriasis has on T2DM patients’ demographics, comorbidities, and health care outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the 2017 U.S. National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. We utilized ICD-10 codes to determine T2DM and psoriasis patients along with associated comorbidities. Continuous variables were compared by independent-sample t-tests and categorical variables were compared via Pearson chi-square. All analysis were conducted in IBM SPSS 25.

Results

Among 7,705,988 T2DM admissions, 0.67% of them had comorbid psoriasis. T2DM psoriasis patients (64.38; SD: 12.403) were, on average, younger (64.38 vs 66.73; P < .001) and white (78.7% vs 63.1%; P < .001) and had increased foot ulcers (4.2% vs 3.8%; P < .001), hyperglycemia (22.4% vs 21.0%; P < .001), retinopathy (22.4% vs 21.0%; P < .001), hypercoagulopathy (8.5% vs 6.9%; P < .001), and hypertension (72.5% vs 70.4%; P < .001) than T2DM patients without psoriasis. T2DM psoriasis patients spent more days in the hospital (5.49 vs 5.37; P < .001), had more concurrent diagnoses (19.05 vs 16.5; P < .001), less total charges ($60,596.71 vs $61,534.66; P = 0.010) and had less in-hospital deaths (2.0% vs 2.7%; P < .001) than T2DM patients without psoriasis.

Conclusions

The presence of comorbid psoriasis significantly impacts T2DM patients’ demographics, comorbidities, and health care outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of early disease monitoring, cross-specialty collaboration, and medication monitoring in order to guide individualized management strategies and optimize patient care.
Sufficient Cav-1 levels in the endothelium are critical for the maintenance of the neurovascular unit in the retina
Authors: Wang Yixin , Halawa Mahmoud , Chatterjee Anupriya , Eshwaran Rachana , Qiu Yi , Wibowo Yohanes Cakrapradipta , Pan Jianyuan , Wieland Thomas , Feng Yuxi
Published: November 2023

Background

Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) is a pivotal protein in the plasma membrane. Studies on homozygous Cav-1 deficient mice revealed that Cav-1 is essential for endothelial function and angiogenesis in the retina. However, whether a reduction in Cav-1 content hampers the neurovascular unit (NVU) in the retina is unclear. Thus, this study examines the NVU in the retinas of heterozygous Cav-1 deficient (Cav-1+/−) mice and analyzes possible underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The vascular, glial and neuronal components in the retina were evaluated using retinal morphometry, whole mount retinal immunofluorescence staining, histological analysis and optical coherence tomography. In addition, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence staining, subcellular fractionation, biotin labeling of cell surface proteins, and proximity ligation assay were employed to detect expression and localization of proteins in the retina or endothelial cells (ECs) upon knockdown of Cav-1 with Cav-1 siRNA.

Results

Cav-1+/− retinas showed a significant reduction in pericyte coverage along with an increase in acellular capillaries compared to controls at 8 months of age, but not at 1 month. A significant loss and obvious morphological abnormalities of smooth muscle cells were observed in 8-month-old Cav-1+/− retinal arterioles. Macroglial and microglial cells were activated in the Cav-1+/− retinas. A transient significant delay in retinal angiogenesis was detected in Cav-1+/− retinas at p5, which was however no longer detectable at p10. The Cav-1+/− retinas displayed increased vascular permeability and a notable reduction in VEGFR2 content at 8 months. In vitro, siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments in ECs revealed that the loss of Cav-1 in ECs resulted in decreased levels of VEGFR2, VE-Cadherin and their interaction at the plasma membrane as well.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that a sufficient Cav-1 level over 50% of its normal abundance is vital for the proper localization of VEGFR2 and VE-cadherin, likely in a complex, at the plasma membrane, which is essential for the maintenance of normal NVU in the retina.
Potential changes in the extent of suitable habitats for geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the Anthropocene
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed Seid , Chala Desalegn , Kufa Chala Adugna , Atickem Anagaw , Bekele Afework , Svenning Jens-Christian , Zinner Dietmar
Published: November 2023

Background

Climate change coupled with other anthropogenic pressures may affect the extent of suitable habitat for species and thus their distributions. This is particularly true for species occupying high-altitude habitats such as the gelada (Theropithecus gelada) of the Ethiopian highlands. To explore the impact of climate change on species distributions, Species Distribution Modelling (SDM) has been extensively used. Here we model the current and future extent of sutibale habitat for geladas. Our modelling was based on 285 presence locations of geladas, covering their complete current distribution. We used different techniques to generate pseudoabsence datasets, MaxEnt model complexities, and cut-off thresholds to map the potential distribution of gelada under current and future climates (2050 and 2070). We assembled maps from these techniques to produce a final composite map. We also evaluated the change in the topographic features of gelada over the past 200 years by comparing the topography in current and historical settings.

Results

All model runs had high performances, AUC = 0.87–0.96. Under the current climate, the suitable habitat predicted with high certainty was 90,891 km2, but it decreased remarkably under future climates, -36% by 2050 and − 52% by 2070. However, since the habitats of geladas already extend to mountaintop grasslands, no remarkable range shifts across elevation gradients were predicted under future climates.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that climate change most likely results in a loss of suitable habitat for geladas, particularly south of the Rift Valley. Currently geladas are confined to higher altitudes and steep slopes compared to historical sightings, probably qualifying geladas as refugee species. The difference in topography is potentially associated with anthropogenic pressures that drove niche truncation to higher altitudes, undermining the climatic and topographic niche our models predicted. We recommend protecting the current habitats of geladas even when they are forecasted to become climatically unsuitable in the future, in particular for the population south of the Rift Valley.