bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Prevalence and Characteristics of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jun , Hou Jiaying , Liu Dechen , Lv Yingqi , Zhang Chi , Su Xianghui , Li Ling
Published: July 2022

Background. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is common in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the prevalence of EPI varies significantly in different studies. Untreated EPI in these patients can adversely affect their nutrition and metabolism. The aim of this study is to estimate the pooled prevalence of EPI in patients with type 2 diabetes and to explore the potential risk factors. Methods. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, which included studies meeting inclusion criteria from 1960 to 1 April 2022. Relevant articles were searched using the combination of Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms of “Type 2 diabetes” and “pancreatic exocrine insufficiency.” The Stata 16.0 software was used for data analyses. The random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence rates and 95% CI using “metaprop program.” Results. The pooled prevalence of EPI was 22% (95% CI: 15%–31%) in patients with type 2 diabetes and 8% (95% CI: 4%–14%) of them developed severe pancreatic insufficiency. In the subgroup analyses, the prevalence of EPI in type 2 diabetes was correlated with geographic location. The prevalence in Asian countries (35%, 95% CI: 22%–49%) is higher than in Europe (18%, 95% CI: 10%–29%) and Australia (9%, 95% CI: 4%–16%). Furthermore, patients with higher insulin requirements, who are more likely to be insulin-deficient, have a higher prevalence of EPI. The pooled prevalence was 27% (95% CI: 17%–37%) in type 2 diabetes with higher insulin requirement (1 group) and 15% (95% CI: 1%–40%) in patients with lower insulin requirement (2 group). In addition, the morbidity of severe EPI in the higher insulin requirement group (12%, 95% CI: 7%–19%) was sextuple as much as the lower insulin requirement group (2%, 95% CI: 0%–13%). EPI was more common in subjects younger than 60 compared with elderlies (25% vs. 19%). Conclusion. The prevalence of EPI in type 2 diabetes may be overestimated. Furthermore, the higher prevalence may be closely related to β-cell function. Endocrine disease therapy would potentially represent a novel therapeutic approach for patients with type 2 diabetes and EPI.
Changes of Tumor Markers in Patients with Lung Cancer after Immunotherapy and Their Link with Inflammation in the Body
Authors: Liu LiWei , Cai YuanChun , Tao XiaoLan , Huang Jing , Han Min
Published: July 2022

Purpose. To figure out tumor markers changes in lung cancer (LC) patients after immunotherapy and their link with inflammation in the body. Methods. From May 2017 to January 2021, taking 97 LC patients with elevated Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 and Programmed Cell Death Protein-ligand 1 was as the research objects. They were all given immunotherapy and assigned into the remission and the nonremission groups on the grounds of the tumor remission after 6 months of treatment, after comparison of tumor markers [carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), squamous cell carcinoma-associated antigen (SCC-Ag), cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA12-1), and neuron-specific enolase (NSE)] and inflammation indicators [interleukin-10 (IL-10), interleukin (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] in the two. Results. Tumor markers, IL-10, IL-6, and TNF-α in the remission after treatment were reduced vs. the nonremission (

P
<
0.05

); SCC-Ag was positively linked with IL-10, IL-6, and TNF-α in the patients after treatment (

P
<
0.05

); the AUC of the combined detection to assess the efficacy of LC immunotherapy was greater vs. the individual detection of indicators (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. Tumor markers and the inflammation state of the body in LC patients are memorably reduced after immunotherapy, and a correlation is presented between the two, which manifests evaluating value of the efficacy of immunotherapy.
[Retracted] Early Diagnosis and Prediction of Death Risk in Patients with Sepsis by Combined Detection of Serum PCT, BNP, Lactic Acid, and Apache II Score
Authors: Suo Shuzhen , Luo Liya , Song Yongkang , Huang He , Chen Xixian , Liu Changbo
Published: July 2022

In order to investigate the expression levels of procalcitonin (PCT), B‐type brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and lactic acid (Lac) in serum of patients with sepsis, a retrospective analysis is conducted. 80 sepsis patients admitted to the ICU of our hospital from January 2019 to June 2020 are selected, and the application value of these factors combined with Apache II score in early diagnosis and prediction of death risk is analyzed. All patients are classified into survival group (n = 57) and death group (n = 23), and examined by blood routine. Lac, PCT, and BNP, and the serum PCT, BNP, and Lac levels were compared between the nonsepsis group and the control group. Furthermore, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Status scoring System II (Apache II) is applied to evaluate the score difference between the sepsis group and the control group. The ROC curve demonstrates that PCT, BNP, and Lac combined with Apache II score can obtain high value for early diagnosis of sepsis. Compared with nonsepsis patients, the scores of serum Lac, PCT, and BNP and Apache II are significantly higher in sepsis patients. It is clearly evident that the combined detection of those indicators is valuable for early diagnosis and prediction of death, and will be suitable for widespread clinical application.
Preexisting Atrial Fibrillation Associated with Higher Mortality in Patients with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bloodstream Infections: Analysis of the National Inpatient Sample
Authors: McCann Timothy , Fatuyi Michael , Patel Neha , Sharath Deepali B. , Patel Anar S.
Published: July 2022

Background. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of preexisting atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with MRSA-BSI during a three-year period and the impact of preexisting AF on MRSA-BSI outcomes. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis performed using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) over a three-year period (2016, 2017, 2018) for patients with MRSA-BSI as a principal diagnosis with and without preexisting AF. The primary outcome was mortality with secondary outcomes of acute coronary syndrome, cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, endocarditis, respiratory failure, acute kidney injury, length of stay, hospital cost, and patient charge. A univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis estimated clinical outcomes. Results. Preexisting AF in patients with MRSA-BSI significantly increased the primary outcome of the study, mortality (1.67% vs. 0.66%,

p
=
0.030

) with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 1.98 (95% CI, 1.1–3.7). Secondary outcomes showed increased likelihood of cardiac arrest with MRSA-BSI and AF (0.48% vs. 0.2%,

p
=
0.025

) with an AOR 3.59 (CI 1.18–11.0), ACS (3.44% vs. 1.21%,

p
=
0.008

) with an AOR of 1.81 (CI 1.16–2.80), respiratory failure (8.92% vs. 4.02%,

p
=
0.045

) with an AOR 1.39 (CI 1.01–1.91), prolonged LOS (6.4 vs. 5.4 days,

p
=
0.0001

), increased hospital cost ($13,374 vs. $11,401,

p
=
0.0001

), and increased overall patient charge ($50,091 vs. $43,018,

p
=
0.0001

). Secondary outcomes that showed statistical significance included ACS (1,497 (3.44%) vs. 113 (1.21%),

p
=
0.008

) with an AOR of 1.81 (CI 1.16–2.80), cardiac arrest (209 (0.48%) vs. 19 (0.2%),

p
=
0.025

) with an AOR 3.59 (CI 1.18–11.0), and respiratory failure (3,881 (8.92%) vs. 374 (4.02%),

p
=
0.045

with an AOR 1.39 (CI 1.01–1.91). Conclusions. Preexisting AF is a significant risk factor for mortality in patients admitted for MRSA-BSI and increases risk for cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and ACS. Considerations should focus on early treatment and source control, especially with AF given the mortality risk, increased hospitalization cost, and prolonged LOS.
An Optimization Method for Integrating Educational Information Resources Based on Edge Computing
Authors: Hua Xufen
Published: July 2022

This paper adopts an edge computing approach to conduct in-depth research and analysis on the optimization of educational information resource integration and constructs an integrated teaching resource design model concerning the integrated teaching model, human-centered mobile learning resource design, and the interdisciplinary concept of physics subject teaching method. The learning field constituted by the model is divided into two parts, the explicit field and the potential field and then designs a five-stage teaching resource based on the model. A five-stage teaching resource development path was designed based on the model. Based on the cloud service center model, we propose a hierarchical mechanism for sharing educational information resources and analyze how each hierarchical entity constructs and shares resources and the rights and responsibilities of each hierarchical entity; we explain the meaning and functions of the personalized educational resource integrated development environment provided by the cloud service center for users. The dynamic evaluation model of the value of educational information resources is summarized and proposed for the resource exchange behavior in the sharing of educational information resources, and the significance of the calculation method of resource value, parameter values, and resource value difference for resource sharing is introduced. Firstly, the mechanism for coconstruction of educational information resources at different levels is proposed, and the construction tasks of subjects at different levels in the process of coconstruction and sharing of resources are elaborated. The sharing mechanism of educational information resources covering the regularization system, evaluation mechanism, incentive mechanism, problem handling mechanism, and supporting service mechanism is proposed, and a dynamic evaluation model of the value of educational information resources is designed to improve the enthusiasm of the coconstruction and sharing subjects.
Upfront Biology-Guided Therapy in Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma: Therapeutic, Molecular, and Biomarker Outcomes from PNOC003
Authors: Kline Cassie , Jain Payal , Kilburn Lindsay , Bonner Erin R. , Gupta Nalin , Crawford John R. , Banerjee Anu , Packer Roger J. , Villanueva-Meyer Javier , Luks Tracy , Zhang Yalan , Kambhampati Madhuri , Zhang Jie , Yadavilli Sridevi , Zhang Bo , Gaonkar Krutika S. , Rokita Jo Lynne , Kraya Adam , Kuhn John , Liang Winnie , Byron Sara , Berens Michael , Molinaro Annette , Prados Michael , Resnick Adam , Waszak Sebastian M. , Nazarian Javad , Mueller Sabine
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

PNOC003 is a multicenter precision medicine trial for children and young adults with newly diagnosed diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG).

Patients and Methods:

Patients (3–25 years) were enrolled on the basis of imaging consistent with DIPG. Biopsy tissue was collected for whole-exome and mRNA sequencing. After radiotherapy (RT), patients were assigned up to four FDA-approved drugs based on molecular tumor board recommendations. H3K27M-mutant circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was longitudinally measured. Tumor tissue and matched primary cell lines were characterized using whole-genome sequencing and DNA methylation profiling. When applicable, results were verified in an independent cohort from the Children's Brain Tumor Network (CBTN).

Results:

Of 38 patients enrolled, 28 patients (median 6 years, 10 females) were reviewed by the molecular tumor board. Of those, 19 followed treatment recommendations. Median overall survival (OS) was 13.1 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 11.2–18.4] with no difference between patients who followed recommendations and those who did not. H3K27M-mutant ctDNA was detected at baseline in 60% of cases tested and associated with response to RT and survival. Eleven cell lines were established, showing 100% fidelity of key somatic driver gene alterations in the primary tumor. In H3K27-altered DIPGs, TP53 mutations were associated with worse OS (TP53mut 11.1 mo; 95% CI, 8.7–14; TP53wt 13.3 mo; 95% CI, 11.8–NA; P = 3.4e−2), genome instability (P = 3.1e−3), and RT resistance (P = 6.4e−4). The CBTN cohort confirmed an association between TP53 mutation status, genome instability, and clinical outcome.

Conclusions:

Upfront treatment-naïve biopsy provides insight into clinically relevant molecular alterations and prognostic biomarkers for H3K27-altered DIPGs.
PD-1T TILs as a Predictive Biomarker for Clinical Benefit to PD-1 Blockade in Patients with Advanced NSCLC
Authors: Hummelink Karlijn , van der Noort Vincent , Muller Mirte , Schouten Robert D. , Lalezari Ferry , Peters Dennis , Theelen Willemijn S.M.E. , Koelzer Viktor H. , Mertz Kirsten D. , Zippelius Alfred , van den Heuvel Michel M. , Broeks Annegien , Haanen John B.A.G. , Schumacher Ton N. , Meijer Gerrit A. , Smit Egbert F. , Monkhorst Kim , Thommen Daniela S.
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

Durable clinical benefit to PD-1 blockade in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is currently limited to a small fraction of patients, underlining the need for predictive biomarkers. We recently identified a tumor-reactive tumor-infiltrating T lymphocyte (TIL) pool, termed PD-1T TILs, with predictive potential in NSCLC. Here, we examined PD-1T TILs as biomarker in NSCLC.

Experimental Design:

PD-1T TILs were digitally quantified in 120 baseline samples from advanced NSCLC patients treated with PD-1 blockade. Primary outcome was disease control (DC) at 6 months. Secondary outcomes were DC at 12 months and survival. Exploratory analyses addressed the impact of lesion-specific responses, tissue sample properties, and combination with other biomarkers on the predictive value of PD-1T TILs.

Results:

PD-1T TILs as a biomarker reached 77% sensitivity and 67% specificity at 6 months, and 93% and 65% at 12 months, respectively. Particularly, a patient group without clinical benefit was reliably identified, indicated by a high negative predictive value (NPV) (88% at 6 months, 98% at 12 months). High PD-1T TILs related to significantly longer progression-free (HR 0.39, 95% CI, 0.24–0.63, P < 0.0001) and overall survival (HR 0.46, 95% CI, 0.28–0.76, P < 0.01). Predictive performance was increased when lesion-specific responses and samples obtained immediately before treatment were assessed. Notably, the predictive performance of PD-1T TILs was superior to PD-L1 and tertiary lymphoid structures in the same cohort.

Conclusions:

This study established PD-1T TILs as predictive biomarker for clinical benefit to PD-1 blockade in patients with advanced NSCLC. Most importantly, the high NPV demonstrates an accurate identification of a patient group without benefit.

See related commentary by Anagnostou and Luke, p. 4835
Pan-Cancer Analysis Reveals Recurrent BCAR4 Gene Fusions across Solid Tumors
Authors: Nickless Andrew , Zhang Jin , Othoum Ghofran , Webster Jace , Inkman Matthew J. , Coonrod Emily , Fontes Sherron , Rozycki Emily B. , Maher Christopher A. , White Nicole M.
Published: July 2022

Chromosomal rearrangements often result in active regulatory regions juxtaposed upstream of an oncogene to generate an expressed gene fusion. Repeated activation of a common downstream partner–with differing upstream regions across a patient cohort–suggests a conserved oncogenic role. Analysis of 9,638 patients across 32 solid tumor types revealed an annotated long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), Breast Cancer Anti-Estrogen Resistance 4 (BCAR4), was the most prevalent, uncharacterized, downstream gene fusion partner occurring in 11 cancers. Its oncogenic role was confirmed using multiple cell lines with endogenous BCAR4 gene fusions. Furthermore, overexpressing clinically prevalent BCAR4 gene fusions in untransformed cell lines was sufficient to induce an oncogenic phenotype. We show that the minimum common region to all gene fusions harbors an open reading frame that is necessary to drive proliferation.

Implications:

BCAR4 gene fusions represent an underappreciated class of gene fusions that may have biological and clinical implications across solid tumors.
Coaptation Reserve Predicts Optimal Reduction in Mitral Regurgitation and Long-Term Survival With Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair
Authors: Sato Hirotomo , Cavalcante João L. , Bae Richard , Bapat Vinayak N. , Garcia Santiago , Gössl Mario , Hashimoto Go , Fukui Miho , Enriquez-Sarano Maurice , Sorajja Paul
Published: July 2022

Background:

Although transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) is effective and safe, there is a need for better prediction of optimal outcomes. We aimed to determine predictors of optimal reduction in mitral regurgitation (MR) and survival with TEER.

Methods:

We examined mitral anatomy and its change with TEER on outcomes in 183 patients (age, 82 [77–87] years; 53% women). Coaptation reserve was measured as the distance of continuous apposition of the A2 and P2 leaflet segments in 2-dimensional apical long-axis imaging at the site of the predominant jet of MR. Augmentation in coaptation was measured as the total amount of leaflet insertion. Addressable coaptation area was calculated using the physical boundaries of the TEER device.

Results:

Coaptation reserve, its augmentation, and addressable coaptation area were strong predictors of MR reduction (all
P
<0.001), as well as heart failure hospitalization and death. For patients with either mild or no residual MR, median values for coaptation reserve, its augmentation, and addressable coaptation area were 3.7 (2.8–4.5) mm, 7.3 (5.2–9.5) mm, and 59.0 (48.0–71.8) mm
2
, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analyses determined the best values for optimal MR reduction as a coaptation reserve of >3.0 mm (
P
<0.001), addressable coaptation area of ≥52 mm
2
(
P
<0.001), and coaptation augmentation of ≥4.7 mm (
P
<0.001). These values were associated with greater 2-year survival free of all-cause mortality and persisting even in analyses restricted to those with mild or no residual MR after TEER.

Conclusions:

Coaptation reserve and its augmentation are simple, independent parameters that predict optimal MR reduction and better survival in patients undergoing TEER. These findings may have implications for patient selection and expanded use of the therapy.
Transcatheter Thoracic Duct Decompression for Multicompartment Lymphatic Failure After Fontan Palliation
Authors: Smith Christopher L. , Dori Yoav , O’Byrne Michael L. , Glatz Andrew C. , Gillespie Matthew J. , Rome Jonathan J.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Lymphatic embolization therapy has proven effective for Fontan failure from plastic bronchitis or protein-losing enteropathy but not when multiple lymphatic compartments are involved; furthermore, embolization does not alter the underlying pathophysiology of lymphatic dysfunction. A technique for transcatheter thoracic duct decompression (TDD), rerouting the thoracic duct to the pulmonary venous atrium to treat multicompartment lymphatic failure is described and early outcomes presented.

Methods:

Initially covered stents were used to channel the innominate vein flow inside of the cavopulmonary pathway into the pulmonary venous atrium. A modified approach was developed where covered stents redirected innominate vein directly to the left atrium via an extravascular course. Baseline and follow-up data on all patients undergoing TDD were reviewed.

Results:

Twelve patients underwent TDD between March 2018 and February 2021 at a median age of 12 (range: 2–22) years. Lymphatic failure occurred in median of 3 compartments per patient (protein-losing enteropathy, ascites, pleural effusions, plastic bronchitis); 10 patients had lymphatic embolizations before TDD. TDD method was intra-Fontan tunnel in 4, direct approach in 7, and other in 1. There were no major procedural complications; 6 patients underwent subsequent procedures, most commonly to treat endoleaks. Lymphatic failure resolved in 6 patients, improved in 2, and was unchanged in 4 at 6 (range: 1–20) months follow-up. One patient died after TDD from Fontan failure.

Conclusions:

TDD is a promising new treatment for the failing Fontan physiology from multicompartment lymphatic failure. Additional work is needed to refine the technique and define optimal candidates.
Reduction of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients With Heyde Syndrome Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Goltstein Lia C.M.J. , Rooijakkers Maxim J.P. , Görtjes Natasha C.C. , Akkermans Reinier P. , Zegers Erwin S. , Pisters Ron , van Wely Marleen H. , van der Wulp Kees , Drenth Joost P.H. , van Geenen Erwin J.M. , van Royen Niels
Published: July 2022

Background:

Heyde syndrome is the co-occurrence of aortic stenosis and gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to angiodysplasias. Surgical aortic valve replacement effectively reduces bleeding, but the effects of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are largely unknown. This study aimed to describe the reduction of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with Heyde syndrome after TAVI and to identify the factors associated with rebleeding.

Methods:

We enrolled patients with Heyde syndrome from a prospective TAVI registry. Gastrointestinal bleeding episodes were assessed by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium classification, and cumulative incidence functions were used to calculate cessation rates. Factors potentially associated with rebleeding were analyzed using logistic regression. Differences between Heyde and non-Heyde patients were assessed through a case-cohort study.

Results:

Between December 2008 and June 2020, 1111 patients underwent TAVI. There were 70 patients with Heyde syndrome (6.3%). In the first year following TAVI, gastrointestinal bleeding ceased in 46 of 70 patients (62% [95% CI, 50%–74%]). Bleeding episodes decreased from 3.2 (95% CI, 2.5–4.2) to 1.6 ([95% CI, 1.2–2.2]
P
=0.001) and hemoglobin levels increased from 10.3 (95% CI, 10.0–10.8) to 11.3 (95% CI, 10.8–11.6) g/dL (
P
=0.007). Between 1 and 5 years after TAVI (35 [interquartile range, 21–51] months), 53 of 62 patients (83% [95% CI, 72%–92%]) no longer experienced gastrointestinal bleeding. Paravalvular leakage (≥mild) was associated with rebleeding risk (odds ratio, 3.65 [95% CI, 1.36–9.80];
P
=0.010). Periprocedural bleeding was more common in Heyde than in control patients (adjusted odds ratio, 2.55 [95% CI, 1.37–4.73];
P
=0.003).

Conclusions:

Patients with Heyde syndrome are at increased risk for periprocedural bleeding. Post-TAVI, gastrointestinal bleeding disappears in the majority of patients. Paravalvular leakage may curtail these clinical benefits.
Dancing with Objects: A Psychological and Neurophysiological Analysis
Authors: Boucher Marc
Published: July 2022

This article uses the psychological concept of body schema and the neurophysiological notion of peripersonal space to discuss the phenomenon of dancing bodies that wear, handle, and share objects. The author shows the complex and dynamic relationship between body and object to be central to the experience of dancing with objects, which is investigated in terms of multisensory integration, most notably in relation to proprioceptive, haptic, and tactile perception. It is posited that, although stemming from different theoretical approaches, both the psychological and neurophysiological perspectives demonstrate how the body incorporates and is incorporated by the things it moves with.
Inverting the Paradigm: From Art to Granular Science
Authors: Leighton Benjamin , Guillard François , Perez Karin Einav , Einav Itai
Published: July 2022

The interface between art and science is an increasingly recognized source of innovation, yet explorations tend to skew toward art reaping the benefits of scientific developments. While, today, art is often freely embraced within scientific fields, it is rarely afforded the freedom to transform scientific research. The authors explore a new paradigm of “art-inspired science” by reimagining and computationally simulating an existing artwork as a dynamic body of cohesive particles. In the process, hanging forms of “granular stalactites” are identified and subsequently reproduced in an idealized simulated system. A theoretical “stickiness” model was then developed to predict their maximum height, which could have wide technological application. Artworks may therefore serve as catalysts for distinctive scientific research, allowing a mutually productive relationship between the disciplines.
Realism in the Age of the Simulated Image: Two Black Holes
Authors: Nelson Peter
Published: July 2022

This paper examines the production and reception of two scientific images of black holes, the 2019 image of the M87 black hole and Gargantua from Christopher Nolan’s 2014 film Interstellar. The author argues that these two images of unobservable phenomena crystallize a definition of contemporary realism. In an information-rich society a simulated image achieves realism by compressing large amounts of data into an intelligible image using an algorithmic methodology that the viewer trusts as scientifically reliable and therefore realistic.
Signal to Noise Loops: A Cybernetic Approach to Musical Performance with Smart City Data and Generative Music Techniques
Authors: Roddy Stephen
Published: July 2022

This article introduces the Signal to Noise Loops project, which consisted of a series of performances and installations that took place worldwide between 2017 and 2022. The project utilized open data from a network of Internet of Things sensors placed around Dublin, Ireland, in the context of experimental music performance and composition. This network was underpinned by a theoretical framework from the field of cybernetics that united and integrated methods and approaches from the wide-ranging fields of data-driven music, generative music, rhythm analysis, and smart cities research.
Mapping the Field of Sound Art: René Block’s Diagrammatic Modernism
Authors: Rosati Lauren
Published: July 2022

The author examines a series of diagrams produced by gallerist René Block in the 1980s that aimed to provide a genealogy for the nascent field of sound art. She assesses the broad narratives presented in these schematics and the people and practices omitted. She then compares them to other modernist diagrams, including Alfred H. Barr Jr.’s 1936 chart for the Museum of Modern Art asserting the trajectory of abstraction. Finally, she measures Block’s diagrams against today’s expanded field of sound art.
Is the Pope’s Hope Being Dashed?
Authors: Nche George C. , Nortjé-Meyer Lilly (SJ) , Blanc Julia , Uwaegbute Kingsley I.
Published: July 2022

At the height of the deadlocks around global climate change discussions and negotiations, Pope Francis made entry with a morally captivating encyclical letter (Laudato Si) on the Care for Creation. Using a scoping review approach, we focused on a five-year-old body of research around the encyclical, identifying impacts as well as other issues arising from the scholarly engagements. Here, 150 English written publications from 2015 to 2020 were reviewed. The majority of these texts (80 %) addressed the significance and vision of Laudato Si. The rest were distributed between those that presented criticisms of the letter (11 %) and those that gauged the impact of the letter on environmental worldviews (9 %). Second, the climate change (technological advancement)-poverty (climate justice) connection, which is the encyclical’s major focus, remains contested and inconclusive as some critics have rather found and presented a positive relationship between these variables. Third, Laudato Si has recorded a mixed impact. To some people, it has not only led to increased credibility of the Pope but also the increased concern for climate change, whereas to others, it has led to a decreased credibility of the Pope as well as a lessened concern for climate change. Fourth, studies gauging Laudato Si’s impact is geographically biased as they have largely focused on the US and Europe while neglecting other regions especially Africa. The implications of these findings for research and policy are discussed.
The Islamic Republic of Iran’s Export of Human Rights Violations through Proxies: Yemen and the Case of the Bahá’ís
Authors: Moinipour Shabnam
Published: July 2022

Following the 1979 Revolution, the new regime began propagating a pan-Islamic ideology in order to unify Muslims under the rule of one country, the Islamic Republic of Iran. While it succeeded in recruiting proxies for this purpose, it has yet to succeed in materializing pan-Islamism. Iran’s proxies, who are currently active in Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Afghanistan, and Pakistan are not only assisting Iran to reach its strategic goal of becoming the dominant power in the Middle East, but they are also beginning to import Iran’s human rights policies. One emerging example is the case of the Bahá’ís. In recent years, the Houthis, who are Iran’s proxy in Yemen, have begun severely persecuting the Bahá’ís in that country. The Bahá’ís in Yemen make only 1 percent of the non-Muslim population but they are the most persecuted group there. What this article aims to tackle are the reasons why there is a divergence in Iran’s bilateral versus multilateral export of human rights violation policies and why the Bahá’ís are a target of the Houthis in the middle of a conflict when this proxy has been created to fight against Saudi Arabia.
Digital home-lessness: Exploring the links between public Internet access, technological capital, and social inequality
Authors: Comi Matt , Smith Sarah , Goettlich Walter A , Alexander Perry , Davidson Drew , Staples William G
Published: July 2022

Millions of individuals in the United States without a computer or broadband at their residence must rely on public libraries for their Internet access. Drawing on a rich data set of interviews and participant observation at three public libraries, we explore how individuals navigate these complex settings and how they profoundly shape their digital lives and experiences, one we characterize as digital home-lessness. In this article, we identify three themes that characterize the relationship between library computer use and digital home-lessness: lifeline encompasses the diverse set of activities that require computer and broadband access; negotiating access focuses on usability, privacy, and security disadvantages among these users; and risky business concentrates on the multiplicities of insecure Internet and computing practices exacerbated by low technological capital. Our findings push forward literature on the digital divide by illuminating how the experience of digital home-lessness limits social inclusion and reproduces socioeconomic inequality.
Reframing Liturgical Theology Through the Lens of Autism: A Qualitative Study of Autistic Experiences of Worship
Authors: van Ommen Armand L. , Endress Topher
Published: July 2022

The way autistic people experience worship services is typically different from the majority, non-autistic church population. These autistic ways of experiencing worship, however, are mostly disregarded in practical and in liturgical theology. This leads not only to exclusion of autistic people from the worshiping congregation, but both the church and liturgical scholarship miss out on the opportunity to enrich its worship practices and theology through the diversity offered by autistic participants. This article presents the results of a qualitative study involving thirteen in-depth interviews with autistic people, summed up in three main themes: the experience of worship, community, and encountering God. The ensuing theological reflection on these themes argues that the indispensability of autistic worshipers to the body of Christ, and the theological evaluation of the “normalcy,” are key principles for reframing liturgical theology through the lens of autism.
Domestic Liturgies in Time of Lockdown: A Survey to Orientate Post-Covid-19 Liturgical Ministry
Authors: Join-Lambert Arnaud
Published: July 2022

Based on a survey of 1,200 people in France and Belgium on their ritual practice during the period of lockdown due to COVID-19 (Spring 2020), the author highlights the major importance of eucharistic liturgies broadcast by the various media and followed by many of the faithful, with the theological and pastoral questions that this raises. He notes above all the small but nevertheless significant proportion of domestic liturgies in small locked down groups, whether encouraged or not by their pastors, which give space to certain creativity at the same time as to the Church's liturgical tradition. This observation leads him to question the major challenges of a liturgical and sacramental pastoral ministry geared towards developing and encouraging the assumption of responsibility by the laity for their prayer and liturgical life, beyond and complementary to the Sunday Eucharist, within their communities and more particularly in their family context.
Do financial models reshape un-cooperative cities? On urban founder’s profit and collaborative-communicative planning in times of austerity
Authors: Klink Jeroen
Published: July 2022

This paper develops a conceptual approach to articulate the political-economy inspired literature on the financialisation of cities with a critical reading of collaborative-communicative planning theory to recognise the active role of planners in the multi-scalar, collective ‘making’ of financialisation by cities. More particularly, I stretch Hilferding’s original idea on founder’s profit, which was associated with the financial gains obtained from Initial Public Offerings and trading of company shares in open markets. In collaboration with private investors and producers of urban space, planners in cash strapped cities and states search for solutions to invest in better cities by anticipating their exclusive rights to various streams of income, while co-promoting and extracting part of urban founder’s profit in doing so. Nevertheless, a communication that is framed around the representational spaces and language of financial models triggers planners’ increasing entanglements with finance in the transformation of cities into abstract tradeable income yielding assets. A methodological-heuristic case study illustrates how tracing the models enables us to follow the money, exposing the contradictory role of collaborative-communicative planning and demand for a project with alternative time-space epistemologies.
Keep Fighting for Existence: Undocumented Student Resource Centers as Counter-Spaces Within Community Colleges
Authors: Freeman-Wong Rachel E. , Mazumder Trisha , Cisneros Jesus
Published: July 2022

Objective: In this study, we were interested in investigating how Undocumented Student Resource Centers (USRCs) as counter-spaces were developed and sustained within community colleges. Method: We conceptualized USRCs as counter-spaces and conducted interviews with 19 staff and students coordinating the work of USRCs. Results: Three themes emerged from the analysis of interviews: Operationalizing USRCs as Counter-Spaces, Putting the “Community” in College, and Creating Visibility and Permanence. Conclusions: Originating from community organizing efforts, USRCs continued the tradition of undocumented student activism through the professionals they employed, the community they engaged, and the self-advocacy practices they sustained. This study raises implications for community college research and practice with regard to the implementation of undocumented student support services.
Event-triggered cluster consensus for two classes of nonlinear multi-agent systems
Authors: Xia Yaping , Ma Jiaxu , Liu Renfei
Published: July 2022

This paper investigates the cluster consensus problems of two classes of leader-following nonlinear multi-agent systems (LFNMASs). The event-triggered strategies are applied to solve the problems, which can significantly reduce energy consumption and the frequency of the controller updates. The sufficient conditions are presented to realize the cluster consensus for two classes of LFNMASs. Then, it is proved that the Zeno behavior can be avoided under the proposed event-triggered control strategies. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Disturbance observer–based finite-time control for a class of systems with multiple heterogeneous disturbances
Authors: Zhang Huifeng , Wei Xinjiang , Zhao Hanxu , Hu Xin
Published: July 2022

The finite-time anti-disturbance control problem is studied for systems with multiple heterogeneous disturbances, which include the disturbance with partially known information and the external disturbance. A disturbance observer is designed to online estimate the disturbance with partially known information. Based on this, a disturbance observer–based finite-time control (DOBFTC) scheme is presented by combining disturbance observer–based control (DOBC) with finite-time control method to guarantee that the composite system is globally finite-time stable. Two simulation examples including a numerical example and a doubly fed induction generators (DFIG) system are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method compared with the existing schemes.
Outcomes and Acceptability of Telehealth-Based Coaching for Caregivers in Asian Countries
Authors: Tsami Loukia , Nguyen Jennifer Trang , Alphonso Naomi , Lerman Dorothea , Matteucci Marissa , Chen Ning
Published: July 2022

Recent studies evaluating the effectiveness of using telehealth to train caregivers across large geographical distances in the United States and internationally indicate that this modality can increase families’ accessibility to evidence-based interventions for problem behavior. In this study, experimenters and interpreters in the United States remotely coached nine caregivers of children with disabilities residing in three countries in Asia to implement functional analyses (FA) and functional communication training (FCT). Five of the nine families were culturally matched to either the experimenter or the interpreter. Problem behavior was reduced to near-zero levels for all but one participant. Furthermore, all caregivers implemented the procedures with high levels of integrity and rated the assessment and treatment as highly acceptable, regardless of cultural matching or use of interpreters. Overall, findings suggest telehealth-based caregiver coaching and caregiver-implemented FA plus FCT is feasible and acceptable in Asia.
Small Town, Short Work Week: Evaluating the Effects of a Compressed Work Week Pilot in Zorra, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Spicer Zachary , Lyons Joseph
Published: July 2022

On September 1, 2020, the Township of Zorra, Ontario, Canada began a compressed work week pilot project designed to add flexibility for its employees in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Office-based employees who opted into the pilot were given either Monday or Friday off from work and then worked longer shifts for the four remaining days. This field note provides information on the program's design and implementation and reports on the findings of pre- and post-pilot surveys designed to gauge attitudes of workers toward the compressed work week. Results indicate that the pilot was received positively and managed to avoid concerns typically associated with compressed work weeks, namely increased fatigue and staffing challenges. In addition to the evaluation of the pilot, we also provide insight into how organizational scale can aid in the development and design of public sector workplace innovations.
Scientific and Regulatory Policy Committee Points to Consider: Integration of Clinical Pathology Data With Anatomic Pathology Data in Nonclinical Toxicology Studies
Authors: Siska William , Schultze Albert Eric , Ennulat Daniela , Biddle Kathleen , Logan Michael , Adedeji Adeyemi O. , Arndt Tara , Aulbach Adam D.
Published: July 2022

Integrating clinical pathology data with anatomic pathology data is a common practice when reporting findings in the context of nonclinical toxicity studies and aids in understanding and communicating the nonclinical safety profile of test articles in development. Appropriate pathology data integration requires knowledge of analyte and tissue biology, species differences, methods of specimen acquisition and analysis, study procedures, and an understanding of the potential causes and effects of a variety of pathophysiologic processes. Neglecting these factors can lead to inappropriate data integration or a missed opportunity to enhance understanding and communication of observed changes. In such cases, nonclinical safety information relevant to human safety risk assessment may be misrepresented or misunderstood. This “Points to Consider” manuscript presents general concepts regarding pathology data integration in nonclinical studies, considerations for avoiding potential oversights and errors in data integration, and focused discussion on topics relevant to data integration for several key organ systems including liver, kidney, and cardiovascular system.
A Study on Executives’ Self–Other Rater Agreement on HEXACO Personality and OCB
Authors: Soumyaja Devi , Kamalanabhan T. J.
Published: July 2022

We tested the level of agreement between the self and other ratings for honesty–humility, emotionality, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness and openness to experience (HEXACO-PI [R]) in a sample of 100 managerial executives from India, along with their co-employees. It is our endeavour to understand whether the relationship between organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and personality, measured through HEXACO, varies across the personality-rating source. Using a survey method comprising a 21-item questionnaire, we noted that all the six HEXACO dimensions had high and significant self–other agreement. Interestingly, the highest correlation was observed for conscientiousness, while the lowest correlation was for openness to experience. However, the relationship between HEXACO and OCB differed across different rating sources. Further, HEXACO, as rated by co-workers, did seem to have a better explanatory power than self-rated HEXACO, in predicting OCB. Importantly, the observed relationships between self and co-worker-related personality and OCB have been explained through the socio-analytic theory and the trait visibility theory. Based on our analysis, we assume that the psychometric properties of the HEXACO scale can be generalized in the Indian context. However, for work-related behaviour, personality rating by a co-worker is a better predictor than global self-rating.

JEL CODE: M
A descriptive literature review of early research on COVID-19 and close relationships
Authors: Bevan Jennifer L , Murphy Madison K , Lannutti Pamela J , Slatcher Richard B , Balzarini Rhonda N
Published: July 2022

This in-depth critical review investigates the impact of COVID-19 on personal relationships from the start of the pandemic in early 2020 to September 2021. Research examining six themes are identified and described in detail: the impact of COVID-19 on (1) family and intimate relationships; (2) LGBTQ+ relationships; (3) how COVID-19 is linked to technologically mediated communication and personal relationships; (4) potential shifts in sexual behaviors and desire; (5) potential shifts in relational conflict and intimate partner violence; and (6) constructive aspects of personal relationships, which is a broad theme that includes outcomes such as resilience, relational quality, coping, and social support. Findings for overarching patterns are offered to highlight implications for current research and identify future directions to consider when continuing to study personal relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic and similar future crises.
Aerobic exercise for HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders in individuals on antiretroviral therapy: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nweke Martins , Nombeko Mshunqane , Govender Nalini , Akinpelu Aderonke , Ukwuoma Maryjane , Ogunniyi Adesola
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The increasing burden of self-limiting forms of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) in the antiretroviral therapy era calls for adjunctive interventions. The study aimed to determine the effects of a 12-week aerobic exercise programme on HAND.

Methods

This is a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation and intention-to-treat analysis. This study was a clinic-based programme. Seventy-three patients with HAND were enrolled in the trial. The intervention comprised a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, 20–60 min per session, three times per week, for twelve weeks. The control group received exercise education. Prevalence of HAND constituted the primary outcome. HAND was identified and classified following the Frascati criteria. We computed the odds ratio and number needed-to-treat to estimate the treatment effect.

Results

There were 73 patients (38 in exercise and 35 in control arm). Individuals in the exercise arm recorded a significantly higher reduction in working memory deficit (OR = 5.14; CI  =  2.6–10.4; NNT  =  6) but not in attention-deficit (OR = 0.31, CI  =  0.2–0.5; NNT = −5) compared to the control group at twelve-week. Reductions in attention deficit (OR = 1.55, 95 CI  =  1.0–2.4; NNT  =  5) and HAND prevalence (OR = 1.8, 95 CI  =  1.2–2.8); NNT  =  8) were significantly higher in the exercise group compared the control group at three-month. No significant between-group difference in functional independence was observed immediately after exercise (p > 0.05).

Discussion

The neuroprotective effects of aerobic exercise appear selective and vary with cognitive abilities impaired and aerobic capacity, with a greater change occurring with improved aerobic capacity.

Conclusion

Individuals with working memory and attention deficits may benefit more from moderate-intensity aerobic exercise.
Coping Style Moderates the Relationship Between Community Violence and Depressive Symptoms in Urban Adolescents
Authors: Gresham Bria Leigh , Orihuela Catheryn A. , Mrug Sylvie
Published: July 2022

Community violence exposure is associated with increased depressive symptoms in adolescents. This study examined whether coping style moderates this relationship over time. Eighty-four low-income, urban adolescents ( Mage = 13.36, 50% female, 95% African American) participated in two waves of a longitudinal study. Youth reported on their community violence exposure and coping style at Wave 1, and their depressive symptoms at Waves 1 and 2 (17 months apart). Problem-focused coping attenuated the effect of community violence exposure on depressive symptoms (β = −.47, p < .05), whereas avoidant coping amplified the effect of community violence on depressive symptoms (β = .63, p < .05). Adolescents exposed to community violence are at an increased risk of developing depressive symptoms if they use low levels of problem-focused coping or high levels of avoidant coping. Interventions targeting coping strategies may improve psychological adjustment of urban youth exposed to community violence.