bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern of lymph node metastases in gastric cancer: a side-study of the multicenter LOGICA-trial
Authors: de Jongh Cas , Triemstra Lianne , van der Veen Arjen , Brosens Lodewijk A. A. , Luyer Misha D. P. , Stoot Jan H. M. B. , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Hillegersberg Richard ,   the LOGICA Study Group, Brenkman Hylke J. F. , Seesing Maarten F. J. , Nieuwenhuijzen Grard A. P. , Ponten Jeroen E. H. , Tegels Juul J. W. , Hulsewe Karel W. E. , Wijnhoven Bas P. L. , Lagarde Sjoerd M. , de Steur Wobbe O. , Hartgrink Henk H , Kouwenhoven Ewout A. , van Det Marc J , Wassenaar Eelco B , van Duijvendijk P. , Draaisma Werner A. , Broeders Ivo A. M. J. , van der Peet Donald L. , Gisbertz Suzanne S.
Published: September 2022

Background

The relation between gastric cancer characteristics and lymph node (LN) metastatic patterns is not fully clear, especially following neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). This study analyzed nodal metastatic patterns.

Methods

Individual LN stations were analyzed for all patients from the LOGICA-trial, a Dutch multicenter randomized trial comparing laparoscopic versus open D2-gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The pattern of metastases per LN station was related to tumor location, cT-stage, Lauren classification and NAC.

Results

Between 2015–2018, 212 patients underwent D2-gastrectomy, of whom 158 (75%) received NAC. LN metastases were present in 120 patients (57%). Proximal tumors metastasized predominantly to proximal LN stations (no. 1, 2, 7 and 9;p < 0.05), and distal tumors to distal LN stations (no. 5, 6 and 8; OR > 1,p > 0.05). However, distal tumors also metastasized to proximal LN stations, and vice versa. Despite NAC, each LN station (no. 1–9, 11 and 12a) showed metastases, regardless of tumor location, cT-stage, histological subtype and NAC treatment, including station 12a for cT1N0-tumors. LN metastases were present more frequently in diffuse versus intestinal tumors (66% versus 52%;p = 0,048), but not for cT3–4- versus cT1–2-stage (59% versus 51%;p = 0.259). However, the pattern of LN metastases was similar for these subgroups.

Conclusions

The extent of lymphadenectomy cannot be reduced after NAC for gastric cancer. Although the pattern of LN metastases is related to tumor location, all LN stations contained metastases regardless of tumor location, cT-stage (including cT1N0-tumors), histological subtype, or NAC treatment. Therefore, D2-lymphadenectomy should be routinely performed during gastrectomy in Western patients.
New Software for DQE Calculation in Digital Mammography Compliant with IEC 62220–1-2
Authors: Dobrzyńska Magdalena , Wysocka-Rabin Anna , Fabiszewska Ewa , Pasicz Katarzyna , Skrzyński Witold
Published: September 2022

Significant improvements in mammography systems have been achieved with the introduction of active matrix flat-panel digital detectors. The advent of this technology also makes it possible to implement computational methods for quantitative image analysis. This study describes new software created to perform detective quantum efficiency (DQE) calculations fully compliant with the IEC 62220–1-2 standard. Python-based software was developed that contains modules to calculate inverse conversion function, modulation transfer function (MTF), noise power spectrum (NPS), and DQE itself. A graphical user interface (GUI) and further add-ons make this software more user-friendly. Results are immediately displayed diagrammatically, and complete output data are exported to a .csv file. The code is available freely, as a compiled, executable file (.exe). The program was successfully tested using DICOM images obtained from mammography units from different manufacturers. This study also includes validation of the new software, based on comparisons of results obtained for the same set of data with two other, freely available programs.
A densely interconnected network for deep learning accelerated MRI
Authors: Ottesen Jon André , Caan Matthan W. A. , Groote Inge Rasmus , Bjørnerud Atle
Published: September 2022

Objective

To improve accelerated MRI reconstruction through a densely connected cascading deep learning reconstruction framework.

Materials and methods

A cascading deep learning reconstruction framework (reference model) was modified by applying three architectural modifications: input-level dense connections between cascade inputs and outputs, an improved deep learning sub-network, and long-range skip-connections between subsequent deep learning networks. An ablation study was performed, where five model configurations were trained on the NYU fastMRI neuro dataset with an end-to-end scheme conjunct on four- and eightfold acceleration. The trained models were evaluated by comparing their respective structural similarity index measure (SSIM), normalized mean square error (NMSE), and peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR).

Results

The proposed densely interconnected residual cascading network (DIRCN), utilizing all three suggested modifications achieved a SSIM improvement of 8% and 11%, a NMSE improvement of 14% and 23%, and a PSNR improvement of 2% and 3% for four- and eightfold acceleration, respectively. In an ablation study, the individual architectural modifications all contributed to this improvement for both acceleration factors, by improving the SSIM, NMSE, and PSNR with approximately 2–4%, 4–9%, and 0.5–1%, respectively.

Conclusion

The proposed architectural modifications allow for simple adjustments on an already existing cascading framework to further improve the resulting reconstructions.
LINC00511 promotes cervical cancer progression by regulating the miR-497-5p/MAPK1 axis
Authors: Lu Mingming , Gao Qing , Wang Yafei , Ren Jie , Zhang Tingting
Published: September 2022

Background

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) exhibits a crucial role in multiple human malignancies. The expression of lncRNA LINC00511, reportedly, is aberrantly up-regulated in several types of tumors. Our research was aimed at deciphering the role and mechanism of LINC00511 in the progression of cervical cancer (CC).

Method

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to quantify the expression levels of LINC00511, miR-497-5p and MAPK1 mRNA in CC tissues and cell lines. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine (BrdU) and Transwell assays were conducted for detecting the proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter gene experiments were performed to verify the targeting relationships amongst LINC00511, miR-497-5p and MAPK1. Besides, MAPK1 expression in CC cells was detected via Western blot after LINC00511 and miR-497-5p were selectively regulated.

Results

Up-regulation of LINC00511 expression in CC tissues and cell lines was observed, which was in association with tumor size, clinical stage and lymph node metastasis of the patients. LINC00511 overexpression facilitated the proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells, while opposite effects were observed after knockdown of LINC00511. Mechanistically, LINC00511 was capable of targeting miR-497-5p and up-regulating MAPK1 expression.

Conclusion

LINC00511/miR-497-5p/MAPK1 axis regulates CC progression.
Neurological Consequences, Mental Health, Physical Care, and Appropriate Nutrition in Long-COVID-19
Authors: Picone Pasquale , Sanfilippo Tiziana , Guggino Rossella , Scalisi Luca , Monastero Roberto , Baschi Roberta , Mandalà Valeria , San Biagio Livio , Rizzo Manfredi , Giacomazza Daniela , Dispenza Clelia , Nuzzo Domenico
Published: September 2022

SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused a collapse of the world health systems. Now, vaccines and more effective therapies have reversed this crisis but the scenario is further aggravated by the appearance of a new pathology, occurring as SARS-CoV-2 infection consequence: the long-COVID-19. This term is commonly used to describe signs and symptoms that continue or develop after acute infection of COVID-19 up to several months. In this review, the consequences of the disease on mental health and the neurological implications due to the long-COVID are described. Furthermore, the appropriate nutritional approach and some recommendations to relieve the symptoms of the pathology are presented. Data collected indicated that in the next future the disease will affect an increasing number of individuals and that interdisciplinary action is needed to counteract it.
Nocardia infection following ocular surface surgery
Authors: Wang Jingting , Lu Xiuhai , Wang Jungang , Wang Shuting , Shi Weiyun , Li Suxia
Published: September 2022

Objective

To investigate the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of Nocardia infection after ocular surface surgery.

Methods

This is a retrospective study. Eight cases of culture-proven Nocardia infection, which developed within 1 month after ocular surface surgery were included. Demographics and clinical history of patients were investigated.

Results

There were 8 eyes (2 left and 6 right) of 8 patients (5 males and 3 females), aged 27–65, with a median age of 52.9 years. Three cases underwent pterygium excision, three were subjected to conjunctival flap covering, and two were treated with lamellar corneal transplantation. The time interval between previous surgery and the onset of symptoms varied from 7 to 28 days (mean = 20.5 ± 7.13 days). All the cases presented grey-white infiltrates at the surgical incision site while appearing with six corneal ulcers and two conjunctival ulcers. Filaments of Nocardia were founded by confocal microscopy in two of the five cases. All responded poorly to medical therapy. Seven of the eight cases were treated with reoperation. Nocardia infection recurred in three cases after reoperation, and one was eviscerated.

Conclusions

Surgical trauma is a risk factor for ocular Nocardia infection. Nocardia infection should be suspected when secondary infection occurs in a surgical incision with an atypical clinical presentation. The use of corticosteroids may influence the efficacy of drugs. Complete removal of lesions may lower the recurrence of Nocardia infection with poor drug treatment effects.
Economic potential and management of tropical mixed-species plantations in Central America
Authors: Pinnschmidt Arne , Yousefpour Rasoul , Nölte Anja , Murillo Olman , Hanewinkel Marc
Published: September 2022

Tropical forest plantations play an important role in meeting global wood demand. While research has highlighted the ecological potential of mixed-species plantations, studies on the economic viability and management of such plantations are largely missing in the context of tropical plantation forestry. In this study, we estimated the economic potential and optimized the management of commercial mixed-species plantations of four tree species native to Central America (Dalbergia retusa, Dipteryx oleifera, Hieronyma alchorneoides, and Vochysia guatemalensis) and Teak (Tectona grandis). We combined the forest growth model 3-PGmix and detailed economic data for two plantation sites in Costa Rica to optimize the management of 11 different mixtures using a genetic optimization algorithm. We found that several of the modeled mixed-species stands can be highly profitable with net present values (NPV) up to 4821.2 USD/ha at an 8% discount rate, and internal rates of return up to 17% (under excellent site conditions). This indicates that the most profitable mixtures (e.g. of V. guatemalensis-D. oleifera or T. grandis-D. oleifera on excellent sites) could compete economically with conventional monoculture plantations such as Teak monocultures. Further, mixed stands can be managed based on the same simple even-aged management approaches currently applied in monoculture plantations if the specific management parameters are adapted. The optimized management parameters also lead to improved NPV of the modeled stands under alternative valuation assumptions but are site-specific. In the present study, we only considered financial benefits from timber production. However, establishing mixed-species plantations in the tropics could provide a wide range of ecosystem services including climate change mitigation and biodiversity protection.
Financial Development, Political Instability, Trade Openness and Growth in Brazil: Evidence from a New Dataset, 1890-2003
Authors: Campos Nauro , Glebkina Ekaterina , Karanasos Menelaos , Koutroumpis Panagiotis
Published: September 2022

What is the relationship between financial development, political instability, trade openness and economic growth and how does it change over time? This paper examines these links using a new econometric approach and unique data set. In this paper, we apply the logistic smooth transition model (LST) to annual data for Brazil from 1890 to 2003. The main finding is that financial development has a time-varying effect on economic growth, which depends significantly on (jointly estimated) trade openness thresholds. In addition, political instability displays a negative effect on growth whereas trade openness a positive one. Finally, our estimates show that in 56% of the years in which financial development has a ‘below the mean’ effect, we find that trade openness experiences a substantial ‘above the mean’ change.
Motivation and Feelings of Competence Among University Students in Introductory Physics
Authors: Romero-Abrio Ana , Hurtado-Bermúdez Santiago
Published: September 2022

This work analyzes whether there is a cognitive bias between the ideal perception of the skills and the real performance in an introductory physics class, and additionally, whether predictions of students’ performance are related to various motivational variables. We examined through a validated survey and network analysis the relationship between several motivational aspects and volitional variables with the accuracy of their predictions. The results show that the students present a motivational bias when students’ desires were considered, mainly in the students with low academic performance. Finally, it is necessary to explore the development of specific interventions that target the motivations of students, in order to be effective, and to reduce the gap between expected and actual grades, increasing students’ metacognitive skills and thus their academic performance.
On Identifying and Mitigating Bias in Inferred Measurements for Solar Vector Magnetic-Field Data
Authors: Leka K. D. , Wagner Eric L. , Griñón-Marín Ana Belén , Bommier Véronique , Higgins Richard E. L.
Published: September 2022

The problem of bias, meaning over- or under-estimation, of the component perpendicular to the line-of-sight [$B_{\perp }$

B
⊥

] in vector magnetic-field maps is discussed. Previous works on this topic have illustrated that the problem exists; here we perform novel investigations to quantify the bias, fully understand its source(s), and provide mitigation strategies. First, we develop quantitative metrics to measure the $B_{\perp }$

B
⊥

bias and quantify the effect in both local (physical) and native image-plane components. Second, we test and evaluate different options available to inversions and different data sources, to systematically characterize the impacts of these choices, including explicitly accounting for the magnetic fill fraction [$f\!\!f$
f
f
]. Third, we deploy a simple model to test how noise and different models of the bias may manifest. From these three investigations we find that while the bias is dominantly present in under-resolved structures, it is also present in strong-field, pixel-filling structures. Noise in the spectropolarimetric data can exacerbate the problem, but it is not the primary cause of the bias. We show that fitting $f\!\!f$
f
f
explicitly provides significant mitigation, but that other considerations such as the choice of $\chi ^{2}$

χ
2

-weights and optimization algorithms can impact the results as well. Finally, we demonstrate a straightforward “quick fix” that can be applied post facto but prior to solving the $180^{\circ}$

180
∘

ambiguity in $B_{\perp }$

B
⊥

, and which may be useful when global-scale structures are, e.g., used for model boundary input. The conclusions of this work support the deployment of inversion codes that explicitly fit $f\!\!f$
f
f
or, as with the new neural-net, that are trained on data that did so.
Growth performance, mortality, and carcass yield evaluation of pure and reciprocal crosses between Sasso and Wassache chickens
Authors: Dzungwe Joshua T. , Tozo Koffi , Chrysostome Christrophe
Published: September 2022

The indigenous chicken production has become an integral part of smallholder farming systems in Africa. Their products are preferred due to their taste and flavor; crossbreeding using exotic breeds can improve the productivity of these chickens without sacrificing their genetic merits. This study was aimed at improving the Wassache chicken. F1 generations of the crosses between the Wassache and Sasso chickens were simultaneously evaluated for growth traits, mortality, and carcass yield in a pure and reciprocal cross design. Data on body weight, performance, and mortality were collected on 451 birds (Sasso × Sasso [SS] = 110; Wassache × Wassache [WW] = 113; Sasso × Wassache [SW] = 113 and Wassache × Sasso [WS] = 115) for 12 weeks. On the 12th week of the study, 20 birds from each genotype were dissected to determine carcass yield. All data collected were analyzed using Minitab 19. The results showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) values reported for the SS genotype in all parameters studied. Likewise, the reciprocal crosses showed higher performance in growth and carcass traits next to pure Sasso. However, the feed conversion ratio and dressing percentage of the hybrids did not differ (P < 0.05) from those of the SS and WW genotypes. Within the reciprocal crosses, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in all parameters measured except for hatch weight where the WS showed a higher (P < 0.05) hatch weight compared to the SW cross. The study encourages the crossbreeding of the Wassache and Sasso chickens for improved meat production in this region.
Numerical investigation of the influence of process parameters and tool path on the temperature in the laser glass deposition (LGD) process
Authors: Denkena B. , Dittrich M.-A. , Malek T. , Sleiman K. , Rettschlag K. , Jäschke P. , Kaierle S.
Published: September 2022

Additive manufacturing has gained interest in the industry due to its flexibility in design and the possibility to integrate functionalities. Thereby, glass has a high potential to be developed also in this field due to its thermal stability, chemical resistance, and optical transmission. Laser glass deposition is a method for fabricating glass components on a glass substrate. The energy input and the resulting temperature are crucial factors in this process, which can influence the material properties and the resulting geometry. Also, depending on the temperature in the substrate, difficulties such as high residual stresses or thermal shock can occur. The temperature on the glass substrate and in the melt zone can be changed either directly by the laser power or laser spot size, or indirectly by other process variables such as travel speed or path planning strategy. In this study, the energy input and the resulting temperature in the melt zone are numerically investigated under selected process parameters. Based on this, a regression function was created so that the generated temperature can be calculated by corresponding laser power, laser spot diameter, and axis velocity. Moreover, different tool path strategies for the production of horizontally multilayered surfaces were thermally investigated. The results showed a more uniform temperature profile with zigzag movement than the spiral tool path. The influence of the turning point angle in path planning on the temperature change was also investigated. It was observed that the 90° corner in contrast to the smaller angle has no significant influence on the temperature change.
Managing from a distance in international purchasing and supply
Authors: O’Connor Neale G. , Du Yan , Yang Zhilin , Akbari Mohammadreza
Published: September 2022

International purchasing and supply management (PSM) teams have long faced the visibility and understandability challenges of managing geographically dispersed and culturally distant suppliers. Problems arising from inadequate monitoring and control over suppliers can be attributed to geographical and cultural distance, capability gaps, weak institutions, and supply market dynamism. With transaction costs theory as our lens, we examine how international geographically and culturally distant purchasing and supply management (PSM) teams control emerging economy suppliers with formal management controls. We use interview survey data on 339 international customer-Chinese supplier relationships using supplier perceptions of the extent to which performance measurement and monitoring practices are used by their primary customer in the purchase reorder decision and control. The results demonstrate that the cultural and, to a lesser extent, geographical distance between the customer and the supplier is associated with more extensive use of formal management controls. Also, we find the relationship between geographical or cultural distance and the importance of performance measurement is strengthened for suppliers of complex components.
Does personality still matter in e-commerce? How perceived hubris influences the assessment of founders’ trustworthiness using the example of reward-based crowdfunding
Authors: Sundermeier Janina , Kummer Tyge-F.
Published: September 2022

Reward-based crowdfunding broadens the scope of e-commerce transactions, as prototypical products are pre-sold under conditions of considerable uncertainty. To date, we know little about the mechanisms that underlie decisions to back reward-based crowdfunding campaigns. However, it is likely that startup founders’ possibility of showcasing their personalities in video pitches signals their trustworthiness, particularly, as other features, such as quality seals and customer testimonials, are often unavailable. We use signaling theory to reinforce the move from a feature-oriented perspective to a signaling perspective, as signals can transmit information about startup founders’ otherwise imperceptible qualities and abilities. Based on a survey (N = 108), we investigate how perceived hubris – proven to be particularly salient in startup contexts – influences the funding decision of potential backers. We find that abilities and legitimacy of a startup founder are rated positively when s/he is perceived as hubristic. These results have implications for crowdfunding campaigns and highlight the relevance of personality traits in electronic markets.
Abyssal fauna of polymetallic nodule exploration areas, eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Annelida: Spionidae and Poecilochaetidae
Authors: Neal Lenka , Wiklund Helena , Rabone Muriel , Dahlgren Thomas G. , Glover Adrian G.
Published: September 2022

This paper represents a continuation of taxonomic publications on the benthic fauna of polymetallic nodule fields in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ) using material collected during baseline environmental survey work targeting two exploration contract areas (“UK-1” and “OMS”) and one Area of Particular Environmental Interest, “APEI-6.” Families Poecilochaetidae Hannerz, 1956 and Spionidae Grube, 1850 of the annelid suborder Spioniformia were studied here. Taxonomic data are presented for 25 species from 98 records as identified by a combination of morphological and genetic approaches. Although sub-optimal morphological condition can prevent new species being formally described, it is essential that morphological, molecular, and voucher data are made available for future surveys. Descriptions of two new species—Poecilochaetus brenkei sp. nov. and Laonice shulseae sp. nov.—increase the number of formally described new annelid species from the areas targeted in this study to 15 and CCZ-wide to 46. We also discuss the commonly reported “cosmopolitan” deep-sea spionid Aurospio dibranchiata Maciolek, 1981, which we show represents several genetically distinct species (three of these from CCZ area alone) but without reliable morphological characters to separate them. Molecular data provide evidence that 15 out of 25 species reported here have a wide distribution within the eastern CCZ and that Aurospio sp. “NHM_2186” and the known species Prionospio amarsupiata Neal & Altamira in Paterson et al. 2016 may be cosmopolitan. Lastly, the molecular data provide insights into relationships within Spioniformia, suggesting that both Poecilochaetidae and Trochochaetidae belong within Spionidae.
Factors influencing intention to apply spatial approaches to on-farm experimentation: insights from the Australian winegrape sector
Authors: Song Xinxin , Evans Katherine J. , Bramley Robert G. V. , Kumar Saideepa
Published: September 2022

Grape growers are often constrained by available time and labor to conduct trials that deliver informative results. Spatially distributed trial designs coupled with data collection using sensing technologies can introduce efficiencies and also account for the impact of land variability on trial results. Various spatial approaches have been proposed, yet how farmers perceive them is largely unknown. We collaborated with four wine businesses in Australia to explore how grape growers and viticultural consultants perceive a simplified spatial approach to experimentation involving one or more vineyard rows or “strips.” In each case, the simplified strip approach was applied alongside growers’ or consultants’ own methods to compare the perceived value of different methods. The Theory of Planned Behavior was used as an analytical framework to identify factors influencing participants’ intentions towards adopting the strip approach. Our findings show that growers and consultants perceived several advantages of the strip approach over their own methods. Key factors impeding uptake were resource constraints for collecting trial data and lack of skills and knowledge to use and analyze spatial data to position the trial and interpret results. These constraints highlight the need to support growers and consultants who see value in this approach by developing automated and affordable measurements for viticultural variables beyond yield, and by providing training on how to analyze and interpret spatial and response data. This study provides novel insights for private and public sectors on where to focus efforts to facilitate adoption of spatial approaches to On-Farm Experimentation by specific target audiences.
A constrained multi-objective optimization algorithm using an efficient global diversity strategy
Authors: Long Wenyi , Dong Huachao , Wang Peng , Huang Yan , Li Jinglu , Yang Xubo , Fu Chongbo
Published: September 2022

When solving constrained multi-objective optimization problems (CMOPs), multiple conflicting objectives and multiple constraints need to be considered simultaneously, which are challenging to handle. Although some recent constrained multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (CMOEAs) have been developed to solve CMOPs and have worked well on most CMOPs. However, for CMOPs with small feasible regions and complex constraints, the performance of most algorithms needs to be further improved, especially when the feasible region is composed of multiple disjoint parts or the search space is narrow. To address this issue, an efficient global diversity CMOEA (EGDCMO) is proposed in this paper to solve CMOPs, where a certain number of infeasible solutions with well-distributed feature are maintained in the evolutionary process. To this end, a set of weight vectors are used to specify several subregions in the objective space, and infeasible solutions are selected from each subregion. Furthermore, a new fitness function is used in this proposed algorithm to evaluate infeasible solutions, which can balance the importance of constraints and objectives. In addition, the infeasible solutions are ranked higher than the feasible solutions to focus on the search in the undeveloped areas for better diversity. After the comparison tests on three benchmark cases and an actual engineering application, EGDCMO has more impressive performance compared with other constrained evolutionary multi-objective algorithms.
Quantile Regression of Childhood Growth Trajectories: Obesity Disparities and Evaluation of Public Policy Interventions at the Local Level
Authors: Konty Kevin , Sweeney Stuart , Day Sophia
Published: September 2022

Quantile regression applied to child growth trajectories has been proposed in the methodological literature but has only seen limited applications even though it is a promising framework for the evaluation of school-based policy interventions designed to address childhood obesity. Data that could be used to support such assessments, school-based collection of height and weight, has become increasingly common. Three states currently mandate annual collection and several other jurisdictions including California and New York City (NYC) collect BMI as part of physical fitness assessments. This has resulted in the establishment of extremely large databases that share important characteristics including the ability to define longitudinal growth curves by student with high coverage rates. In NYC public schools, starting in 2006, student records have been linked to registry, academic, and attendance data and across years resulting in a longitudinal dataset containing 9 cohorts with 2 million unique children. A high level of demographic and geographic detail allow for analysis of public policy at the local scale. We demonstrate the utility of quantile regression longitudinal growth curve models applied to BMI trajectories as a means of assessing policy interventions. Models consisting solely of age terms yield empirical curves similar to CDC growth charts; covariates modify these curves. Incorporating lag terms yields a distribution of possible growth trajectories and the effect of interventions can be explicitly quantified. We evaluate area-based and individual poverty measures, known strong correlates of child obesity, as a baseline assessment of the modeling framework. We then evaluate the impact of a real intervention (water jet installations). Our results indicate that students with access to water jets have a statistically significant leftward shift in the right tail of the BMI distribution relative to students without access to water jets. The absolute magnitude of the shift is comparable to the difference in BMI associated with student residential exposure to low versus extreme poverty.
Intent-Aware Data Visualization Recommendation
Authors: Maruta Atsuki , Kato Makoto P.
Published: September 2022

This paper proposes a visualization recommender system for tabular data given visualization intents (e.g., “population trends in Italy” and “smartphone market share”). The proposed method predicts the most suitable visualization type (e.g., line, pie, or bar chart) and visualized columns (columns used for visualization) based on statistical features extracted from the tabular data as well as semantic features derived from the visualization intent. To predict the appropriate visualization type, we propose a bi-directional attention (BiDA) model that identifies important table columns using the visualization intent and important parts of the intent using the table headers. To determine the visualized columns, we employ a pre-trained neural language model to encode both visualization intents and table columns and predict which columns are the most likely to be used for visualization. Since there was no available dataset for this task, we created a new dataset consisting of over 100 K tables and their appropriate visualization. Experiments revealed that our proposed methods accurately predicted suitable visualization types and visualized columns.
School Choice Algorithms: Data Infrastructures, Automation, and Inequality
Authors: Swist Teresa , Gulson Kalervo N.
Published: September 2022

Automated decision-making is a process in which an algorithm collects and analyses data, derives information, applies this information, and recommends an action, at times using forms of Artificial Intelligence (Richardson 2021). This paper proposes that we need to locate automated decision-making as part of the history of educational policy and governance, as well as increasingly networked cultural records or digital archives. As such, we explore the history and present of automated decision systems across a range of cultural records spanning several categories: data, algorithm, and AI-based technologies; innovation and industry; philanthropy and funding; policy and legislation; spatiality and socioeconomics; plus, activism, and communities. To do so, we created an interdisciplinary archival heuristic as a research tool to retrace these interrelated cultural records shaping data infrastructure and inequalities. We then tested this tool in the context of the school admission matching algorithm in New York City. Our central aim is to help counter discourses about the newness and efficiencies of introducing automation and algorithms across education reform initiatives. The education counter-archiving heuristic introduced therefore offers a novel research tool to explore the intersecting history, present, and future of automated decision-making systems, such as school choice algorithms.
Model-Driven Engineering of Process-Aware Information Systems
Authors: Drave Imke , Michael Judith , Müller Erik , Rumpe Bernhard , Varga Simon
Published: September 2022

Enterprise information systems created with model-driven software engineering methods need to handle not only data but also business processes in an automated way. This paper shows how to engineer process-aware information systems following the model-driven and generative software engineering paradigms. Existing approaches realize either the generation of automated or manual activities but do not employ model-driven engineering of all system aspects through systematic language composition. A generative approach that additionally uses process modeling languages allows developers to evolve generated data-centric information systems into process-aware information systems. To be usable within our generation process, we have developed a textual BPMN version and a corresponding language tooling to check the soundness of the models. We have included these process models into the generation process of an information system together with other domain-specific modeling languages, e.g., for data structures, and generate an extendable, process-aware information system that is open for continuous regeneration and hand-written additions. This approach allows us to lift a generated data-centric information system to a process-aware information system. Agile development enabled through the opportunity to validate assumptions automatically and adapt changes efficiently, enhances the engineering process as well as the generated systems themselves.
Penile fracture without typical manifestation: A case report
Authors: Agil Ahmad , Tjahjodjati  , Atik Nur , Rachmadi Dedi , Rizki Dhika
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Introduction and importance

Penile fracture is the disruption of the tunica albuginea with rupture of the corpus cavernosum. Fracture typically occurs during vigorous sexual intercourse.

Case presentation

A 30 years old man presented to the emergency department with a chief complaint of sudden pain on the penile shaft and blood on his meatus with history of vigorous sexual intercourse 5 hours before admission, and the penis was slipped out during intercourse and injured.

Clinical discussion

In this case, we performed surgical exploration of the penis and repair of urethra and corpus cavernosum. Surgical exploration of the penis was deemed necessary to prevent complication.

Conclusion

For a special case of penile trauma without typical manifestation, we cannot exclude the diagnosis of penile fracture directly based on the absence of signs from physical examination. Cavernosography and urethrography should be considered when clinical sign are insufficient for diagnosis.
Labour and Christianity in the Mission
Authors: Liebst Michelle
Published: September 2022

Important and broadening study of the way Africans engaged with missions, not as beneficiaries of humanitarian philanthropy, but as workers.
Everything Old Is New Again: The Persistence of Republican Opposition to Multilateralism in American Foreign Policy
Authors: Fordham Benjamin O. , Flynn Michael
Published: September 2022

The last two Republican presidents’ hostility to multilateralism has produced striking departures from postwar American foreign policy, but this position is not as new as it sometimes appears. It has deep historical roots in the conservative wing of the Republican Party. Using data on congressional voting and bill sponsorship, we show that Republicans, especially those from the party's conservative wing, have tended to oppose multilateral rules for more than a century. This position fit logically into the broader foreign policy that Republican presidents developed before World War I but posed problems in light of the changing conditions during the mid-twentieth century. The importance of multilateral cooperation for U.S. national security during the Cold War and the growing international competitiveness of American manufacturing split the party on multilateral rules, but it did not reverse the conservative wing's longstanding skepticism of them. Congressional leaders’ efforts to keep consequential choices about multilateral rules off the legislative agenda for most of the postwar era contributed to the persistence of this position. This move spared conservative members of Congress from confronting the costs of opposing multilateral institutions, giving them little incentive to challenge ideological orthodoxy.
Longitudinal effects and environmental moderation of ALDH2 and ADH1B gene variants on substance use from age 14 to 40
Authors: Saunders Gretchen R.B. , McGue Matt , Iacono William G. , Vrieze Scott
Published: September 2022

Alcohol use and dependence are strongly affected by variation in aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH2) and, to a lesser extent, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH1B) genes. We use this genetic variation with an adoption design to test the causal role of alcohol use on other drug use, as well as the moderating role of adoptive parent, sibling, and peer alcohol use. Longitudinal models were run on 412 genotyped adopted individuals of East Asian ancestry with multiple assessments between ages 14 and 40. We found robust associations between alcohol frequency, quantity, and maximum drinks and ALDH2, but not ADH1B, status. The magnitude of the ALDH2 protective effect increased with age, particularly for maximum drinks, though estimates were smaller than previously reported in ancestrally similar individuals in East/North-East Asian countries. These results suggest that sociocultural factors in Minnesota may reduce the protective effects of ALDH2. We found that peer alcohol use, but not parent or sibling use, predicted adopted offspring’s use, and that these environmental influences did not vary by ALDH2 status. Finally, we did not find strong evidence of associations between ALDH2 status and tobacco, marijuana, or illegal drug use, contrary to expectation if alcohol serves as a gateway to use of other drugs.
Serum endocan levels in children with rheumatic aortic insufficiency: can it differentiate bicuspid aortic valve disease from rheumatic heart disease?
Authors: Laloğlu Fuat , Laloğlu Esra , Ceviz Naci , Güler Muhammet Akif
Published: September 2022

Aim:

In this study, it was aimed to examine the serum endocan levels in patients with rheumatic aortic regurgitation and to investigate whether it has a value in differentiating it from aortic regurgitation due to bicuspid aortic valve.

Methods:

Blood samples were collected from patients with rheumatic aortic regurgitation (Group 1), incidentally diagnosed patients with borderline or definite rheumatic aortic regurgitation (Group 2), children with bicuspid aortic valve accompanied by aortic regurgitation (Group 3) and healthy children (Group 4) of similar age.

Results:

There were 12 children in Group 1, 13 in Group 2, 25 in Group 3, and 25 in Group 4. Groups were similar in terms of age (p = 0.291). There was no statistically significant difference between median serum endocan levels of Group 1 and Group 2 (p = 0.624), and Group 3 and Group 4 (p = 0.443). Despite that, the median serum endocan levels of Group 1 and Group 2 were significantly higher than that of both Group 3 and Group 4 (p = 0.000 for all).

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that serum endocan level can be used to differentiate rheumatic aortic regurgitation from non-rheumatic aortic regurgitation. It is thought that the prognostic role of this marker should be confirmed in long-term, prospective studies with larger samples.
The serial changes in myocardial functions after paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Tamburacı Uslu Zehra Diyar , Ekici Filiz , Yalçın Koray , Küpesiz Alphan , Güler Elif , Dönmez Levent
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in myocardial functions in children who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation along with associated chemotherapy. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of baseline echocardiographic parameters on mortality. We evaluated 39 patients (mean age 7.4 years) who underwent haematopoietic stem cell transplantation owing to non-malignant disease. The control group included 39 healthy children who had normal cardiac findings. The myocardial functions were evaluated in all subjects by conventional echocardiography and tissue Doppler echocardiography before haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and in the 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th month after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. All patients had normal left ventricular ejection fraction before haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, except one case. Before haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the patient group had significantly greater mean pulmonary artery pressure and lower tricuspid valve annular plane excursion rate. Baseline E’ velocities for mitral lateral annuli, septum, and tricuspid lateral annuli were lower in the patient group than the control group. The E’ velocities for the left ventricle decreased in the patient group after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and then returned to baseline levels at the 6 months. E’ and S’ velocities for tricuspid lateral annuli also decreased after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and were still depressed in the first year after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Baseline E’ velocity for septum was significantly lower in patients who died after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation than patients who survived (p = 0.009). Subclinical impairment in both ventricular functions was observed after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and the right ventricular functions were affected for longer periods than left ventricle after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The myocardial functions should be monitored after the first year of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Long-term vascular dysfunction in Kawasaki disease: systematic review and meta-analyses
Authors: Patra Pratap Kumar , Banday Aaqib Zaffar , Das Rashmi Ranjan , Manohari Sumita , Jindal Ankur Kumar , Singh Surjit
Published: September 2022

Background:

Long-term physiological dysfunction in coronary/systemic vasculature may persist in individuals with Kawasaki disease even in the absence of coronary artery abnormalities. We perform a systematic review and meta-analyses of studies assessing long-term vascular function in Kawasaki disease.

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant literature published till May 2021. Patients with Kawasaki disease were included as cases and healthy age/sex-matched individuals as controls. Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to assess the study quality. Outcome measures were differences in markers of vascular function 1 year after diagnosis of Kawasaki disease. Data were analysed using Review Manager software. Comprehensive meta-analysis software was used for meta-regression. To assess the certainty of evidence, GRADE Profiler software was utilised.

Results:

Of 2280 citations, 49 case-control studies (comprising 2714 cases and 2118 controls) were included for data synthesis. Decreased flow-mediated dilatation [3.83, 95%CI 0.94–6.72] and increased pulse-wave velocity [39.34 cm/sec, 95%CI 20.86–57.83], arterial stiffness [0.35, 95%CI 0.11–0.59], and common carotid artery intima-media thickness were noted in patients with Kawasaki disease. No significant difference was observed for nitroglycerine-mediated dilatation and endothelial peripheral artery tonometry (endo-PAT). Significant inter-study heterogeneity was observed for flow-mediated dilatation, arterial stiffness, carotid artery intima-media thickness, and endo-PAT. The GRADE evidence was of ‘very low quality’ for all outcome measures except ‘moderate quality’ for pulse-wave velocity.

Conclusions:

Evidence suggests the presence of long-term endothelial dysfunction in patients with Kawasaki disease even in the absence of coronary artery abnormalities. Avoidance of development of other cardiovascular risk factors seems prudent in patients with Kawasaki disease.
Occlusion of the os of the left coronary artery by dysplastic aortic valve tissue presenting as progressive mitral insufficiency and cardiac arrest
Authors: Gunsaulus Megan E. , Das Nikkan , Weinberg Jacqueline G. , Kreutzer Jacqueline , Castro Medina Mario , DeBrunner Mark
Published: September 2022

Mitral regurgitation in the neonatal period is relatively rare. It can be secondary to a congenital malformation of the valve apparatus or mitral valve dysfunction and deformation secondary to myocardial dysfunction or volume load of the left ventricle. Less commonly, it can be due to coronary artery abnormalities leading to mitral valve papillary muscle ischaemia and subsequent dysfunction. Such coronary artery abnormalities include anomalous left coronary artery from pulmonary artery, left main coronary artery atresia, or a thromboembolic phenomenon. In this study, we describe a newborn with a dysplastic aortic valve causing obstruction of the os of the left coronary artery leading to progressive mitral insufficiency.
More to the story than executive function: Effortful control soon after injury predicts long-term functional and social outcomes following pediatric traumatic brain injury in young children
Authors: Smith-Paine Julia , Moscato Emily L. , Narad Megan E. , Sensenbaugh Josh , Ling Brandt , Taylor H. Gerry , Stancin Terry , Yeates Keith Owen , Wade Shari L.
Published: September 2022

Objective:

To examine the impact of early traumatic brain injury (TBI) on effortful control (EC) over time and the relationship of EC and executive functioning (EF) to long-term functional and social outcomes.

Method:

Parents of children (N= 206, ages 3–7) with moderate-to-severe TBI or orthopedic injuries (OIs) rated EC using the Child Behavior Questionnaire at 1 (pre-injury), 6, 12, and 18 months post-injury. Child functioning and social competence were assessed at 7 years post-injury. Mixed models examined the effects of injury, time since injury, and their interaction on EC. General linear models examined the associations of pre-injury EC and EC at 18 months with long-term functional and social outcomes. Models controlled for EF to assess the unique contribution of EC to outcomes.

Results:

Children with severe TBI had significantly lower EC than both the OI and moderate TBI groups at each post-injury time point. Both pre-injury and 18-month EC were associated with long-term outcomes. Among those with low EC at baseline, children with moderate and severe TBI had more functional impairment than those with OI; however, no group differences were noted at high levels of EC. EC had main effects on parent-reported social competence that did not vary by injury type.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest that EC is sensitive to TBI effects and is a unique predictor of functional outcomes, independent of EF. High EC could serve as a protective factor, and as such measures of EC could be used to identify children for more intensive intervention.