bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a vascular access specific quality of life measure (VASQoL)
Authors: Richarz Sabine , Greenwood Sharon , Kingsmore David B , Thomson Peter C , Dunlop Mark , Bouamrane Matt-Mouley , Meiklem Ramsey , Stevenson Karen
Published: October 2021

Background:

A self-administered 11 item vascular access specific quality of life measure (VASQoL) was previously derived from detailed qualitative interviews with adult patients with kidney failure who have experienced vascular access using the Capabilities Approach as a theoretical base. This study reports the psychometric validation of the VASQoL measure including its reliability, content validity and responsiveness to change.

Methods:

Cognitive interviews were conducted with 23 adult patients with kidney failure after completion of the VASQoL measure. Focus group discussion with a vascular access professional multidisciplinary team was undertaken ( n = 8) and subsequently a further 101 adult kidney failure patients with vascular access (TCVC, AVF or AVG) completed the digital VASQoL measure, EQ-5D and SF-36 questionnaires in a longitudinal study with prospectively recorded vascular access events.

Results:

Transcript analysis of cognitive interviews after VASQoL completion indicated that the content was comprehensive and well understood by participants. Assessment of Internal reliability for the VASQoL measure was high (Cronbach’s alpha 0.858). Test-retest reliability of the overall VASQoL measure was high (intra class correlation coefficient 0.916). In those patients who experienced a vascular access event, significant differences were observed in paired analysis of the VASQoL physical domain questions and vascular access function domain questions and in the EQ-5D usual activities, pain and anxiety domains. In those with no vascular access event, variation was observed in longitudinal analysis in VASQoL questions relating to worry about VA function and capability domains, whilst no variation was observed in the EQ5D measure.

Conclusion:

The VASQoL measure has good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, convergent validity and responsiveness to change for clinically relevant vascular access outcomes. This provides a validated, vascular access specific quality of life measure that can be used in future trials of vascular access, evaluation of new technologies and routine use as a patient reported outcome measure (PROM).
Generating fractal rough surfaces with the spectral representation method
Authors: Wang Yuechang , Azam Abdullah , Wilson Mark CT , Neville Anne , Morina Ardian
Published: October 2021

The application of the spectral representation method in generating Gaussian and non-Gaussian fractal rough surfaces is studied in this work. The characteristics of fractal rough surfaces simulated by the spectral representation method and the conventional Fast Fourier transform filtering method are compared. Furthermore, the fractal rough surfaces simulated by these two methods are compared in the simulation of contact and lubrication problems. Next, the influence of low and high cutoff frequencies on the normality of the simulated Gaussian fractal rough surfaces is investigated with roll-off power spectral density and single power-law power spectral density. Finally, a simple approximation method to generate non-Gaussian fractal rough surfaces is proposed by combining the spectral representation method and the Johnson translator system. Based on the simulation results, the current work gives recommendations on using the spectral representation method and the Fast Fourier transform filtering method to generate fractal surfaces and suggestions on selecting the low cutoff frequency of the power-law power spectral density. Furthermore, the results show that the proposed approximation method can be a choice to generate non-Gaussian fractal surfaces when the accuracy requirements are not high. The MATLAB codes for generating Gaussian and non-Gaussian fractal rough surfaces are provided.
Multiple sclerosis diagnosis: Knowledge gaps and opportunities for educational intervention in neurologists in the United States
Authors: Solomon Andrew J , Kaisey Marwa , Krieger Stephen C , Chahin Salim , Naismith Robert T , Weinstein Sarah M , Shinohara Russell T , Weinshenker Brian G
Published: October 2021

Background:

Few studies have addressed the results of educational efforts concerning proper use of McDonald criteria (MC) revisions outside multiple sclerosis (MS) subspecialty centers. Neurology residents and MS subspecialist neurologists demonstrated knowledge gaps for core elements of the MC in a recent prior study.

Objective:

To assess comprehension and application of MC core elements by non-MS specialist neurologists in the United States who routinely diagnose MS.

Methods:

Through a cross-sectional study design, a previously developed survey instrument was distributed online.

Results:

A total of 222 neurologists completed the study survey. Syndromes atypical for MS were frequently incorrectly considered “typical” MS presentations. Fourteen percent correctly identified definitions of both “periventricular” and “juxtacortical” lesions and 2% correctly applied these terms to 9/9 images. Twenty-four percent correctly identified all four central nervous system (CNS) regions for satisfaction of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dissemination in space. In two presented cases, 61% and 71% correctly identified dissemination in time (DIT) was not fulfilled, and 85% and 86% subsequently accepted nonspecific historical symptoms without objective evidence for DIT fulfillment.

Conclusion:

The high rate of knowledge deficiencies and application errors of core elements of the MC demonstrated by participants in this study raise pressing questions concerning adequacy of dissemination and educational efforts upon publication of revisions to MC.
Trajectories of sickness absence and disability pension days among people with multiple sclerosis by type of occupation
Authors: Bosma Astrid R. , Murley Chantelle , Aspling Jenny , Hillert Jan , G. Schaafsma Frederieke , R. Anema Johannes , Boot Cécile R.L. , Alexanderson Kristina , Machado Alejandra , Friberg Emilie
Published: October 2021

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can impact working life, sickness absence (SA) and disability pension (DP). Different types of occupations involve different demands, which may be associated with trajectories of SA/DP among people with MS (PwMS).

Objectives:

To explore, among PwMS and references, if SA/DP differ according to type of occupation. Furthermore, to examine how trajectories of SA/DP days are associated with type of occupation among PwMS.

Methods:

A longitudinal nationwide Swedish register-based cohort study was conducted, including 6100 individuals with prevalent MS and 38,641 matched references from the population. Trajectories of SA/DP were identified with group-based trajectory modelling. Multinomial logistic regressions were estimated for associations between identified trajectories and occupations.

Results:

Increase of SA/DP over time was observed in all occupational groups, in both PwMS and references, with higher levels of SA/DP among PwMS. The lowest levels of SA/DP were observed among managers. Three trajectory groups of SA/DP were identified: Persistently Low (55.2%), Moderate Increasing (31.9%) and High Increasing (12.8%). Managers and those working in Science & Technology, and Economics, Social & Cultural were more likely to belong to the Persistently Low group.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that type of occupation plays a role in the level and course of SA/DP.
Interpreting change on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test in people with relapsing multiple sclerosis using the reliable change methodology
Authors: Weinstock Zachary , Morrow Sarah , Conway Devon , Fuchs Tom , Wojcik Curtis , Unverdi Mahmut , Zivadinov Robert , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Iverson Grant L , Dwyer Michael , Benedict Ralph HB
Published: October 2021

Background:

The Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) is increasingly utilized in clinical trials. A SDMT score change of 4 points is considered clinically important, based on association with employment anchors. Optimal thresholds for statistically reliable SDMT changes, accounting for test reliability and measurement error, are yet to be applied to individual cases.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to derive a statistically reliable marker of individual change on the SDMT.

Methods:

This prospective, case–control study enrolled 166 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). SDMT scores at baseline, relapse, and 3-month follow-up were compared between relapsing and stable patient groups. Using data from the stable group and three previously published studies, candidate thresholds for reliable decline were calculated and validated against other tests and a clinically meaningful anchor—cognitive relapse.

Results:

Candidate thresholds for reliable decline at the 80% confidence level varied between 6 and 11 points. An SDMT change of 8 or more raw score points was deemed to offer the best balance of discriminatory power and external validity for estimating cognitive decline.

Conclusion:

This study illustrates the feasibility and usefulness of reliable change methodology for identifying statistically meaningful cognitive decline that could be implemented to identify change in individual patients, for both clinical management and clinical trial outcomes.
Visibility and security in the smart home
Authors: Humphry Justine , Chesher Chris
Published: October 2021

Smart home, media and security systems intervene in the territory and boundaries of the home in a variety of ways. Among these are the capacity to watch the home from afar, and to record these observations over time, as well as using the home as a site of performance for those on the outside. In this paper, we map the meanings of the smart home and explore the tensions between security and visibility, adopting a cultural history and cultural analysis methodological approach. We make a contribution to the literature on the smart home, highlighting its connection to longer trajectories of media and cultural change, and to understanding the contemporary formations of technologised surveillance, with attention to practices that emerged in response to COVID-19. We focus on two aspects of our model of domestic smartification: Ludics (devices and systems for play or entertainment) and exteriorities (security and communication interfaces that remotely monitor and expose the home). We focus on these aspects relating them to ideas of haunting and the uncanny to explore the implications of making what was previously hidden visible and manipulable to others.
Transgender debates and healthcare: A critical realist account
Authors: Pilgrim David
Published: October 2021

The meta-theoretical resource of critical realism (CR) is deployed in order to examine transgender and healthcare. CR treads a middle way between positivism and postmodernism, within post-Popperian discussions of the philosophy of natural and social science. It focuses on the conditions of possibility for the emergence of a phenomenon under investigation. In this case, the focus is on the emergence of debates about transgenderism in healthcare. These have been technological (about the prospect of biomedical solutions to personal problems) and ideological, with the enlarged salience of identity politics and our currently unresolved “culture wars.” Identity politics have brought a focus on epistemological privilege or “lived experience” and on rights to healthcare being driven by consumer choice. The current contestation and its history are discussed in relation to our four planar social being (nature, relationality, socio-economic structures, and our particular personalities) and future scenarios are rehearsed.
Migration health research in Norway: a scoping review
Authors: Laue Johanna , Diaz Esperanza , Eriksen Linda , Risør Torsten
Published: October 2021

Aims: To provide an overview of published research on migration and health conducted in Norway and identify gaps in the research field. Methods: Applying a scoping review methodology, we searched Medline for articles on migration health in Norway published between 2008 and 2020, and assessed them according to research topic, methodology, user-involvement and characteristics of the populations studied (country or area of origin, type of migrant/immigrant status). Results: Of the 707 articles retrieved, 303 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (77%) were within the clinical disciplines reproductive health, mental health, infectious diseases and cardiovascular diseases, or on socio-cultural aspects and the use of healthcare services. One third of the papers (36%) pulled participants from various geographic backgrounds together or did not specify the geographic background. Among those who did so, participants were mostly from The Middle East, South and Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Only 14% of the articles specified the type of migrant/immigrant status and those included refugees, asylum seekers and undocumented migrants. A total of 80% of the papers used quantitative methods, of which 15 described an intervention; 15 papers (5%) described different types of user-involvement. Conclusions: Our findings suggest gaps in research related to migrant subgroups, such as those from Eastern-Europe and labour and family reunification migrants. Future studies should further investigate the self-identified health needs of different migrant groups, and might also benefit from a methodological shift towards more intervention studies and participatory approaches.
Mortality in Norway and Sweden during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Juul Frederik E. , Jodal Henriette C. , Barua Ishita , Refsum Erle , Olsvik Ørjan , Helsingen Lise M. , Løberg Magnus , Bretthauer Michael , Kalager Mette , Emilsson Louise
Published: October 2021

Background: Norway and Sweden are similar countries in terms of socioeconomics and health care. Norway implemented extensive COVID-19 measures, such as school closures and lockdowns, whereas Sweden did not. Aims: To compare mortality in Norway and Sweden, two similar countries with very different mitigation measures against COVID-19. Methods: Using real-world data from national registries, we compared all-cause and COVID-19-related mortality rates with 95% confidence intervals (CI) per 100,000 person-weeks and mortality rate ratios (MRR) comparing the five preceding years (2015–2019) with the pandemic year (2020) in Norway and Sweden. Results: In Norway, all-cause mortality was stable from 2015 to 2019 (mortality rate 14.6–15.1 per 100,000 person-weeks; mean mortality rate 14.9) and was lower in 2020 than from 2015 to 2019 (mortality rate 14.4; MRR 0.97; 95% CI 0.96–0.98). In Sweden, all-cause mortality was stable from 2015 to 2018 (mortality rate 17.0–17.8; mean mortality rate 17.1) and similar to that in 2020 (mortality rate 17.6), but lower in 2019 (mortality rate 16.2). Compared with the years 2015–2019, all-cause mortality in the pandemic year was 3% higher due to the lower rate in 2019 (MRR 1.03; 95% CI 1.02–1.04). Excess mortality was confined to people aged ⩾70 years in Sweden compared with previous years. The COVID-19-associated mortality rates per 100,000 person-weeks during the first wave of the pandemic were 0.3 in Norway and 2.9 in Sweden. Conclusions: All-cause mortality in 2020 decreased in Norway and increased in Sweden compared with previous years. The observed excess deaths in Sweden during the pandemic may, in part, be explained by mortality displacement due to the low all-cause mortality in the previous year.
Simmel’s Soziologie in translation: A critical analysis
Authors: Lechner Frank J
Published: October 2021

Using illustrative passages and comparisons with previous partial translations, this paper reports some problems of accuracy and tone in the complete English translation of Georg Simmel’s sociological magnum opus, Sociology: Inquiries into the Construction of Social Forms. Placing these problems in the context of broader discussions of translation projects, it urges caution on the part of anglophone readers and suggests that some older translations remain valuable.
Charisma and social phenomenology: Gerda Walther, Herman Schmalenbach and Aron Gurwitsch
Authors: Zelinsky Dominik
Published: October 2021

This paper explores the contribution of early social phenomenologists working in the 1920s and 1930s in Germany to charisma theory. Specifically, I focus on the works of Gerda Walther, Herman Schmalenbach and Aron Gurwitsch, whose work is now being re-appreciated in the field of social philosophy. Living in the interbellum German-speaking space, these authors were keenly interested in the issue of charismatic authority and leadership introduced into the social sciences by Max Weber, with whom they engaged in an indirect intellectual dialogue. I argue that their phenomenological background equipped them well to understand the intricacies of the experiential and emotional dimension of charisma, and that their insights remain valid even a century after they have been first published.
A qualitative meta-synthesis of common and unique preferences for supportive services among persons with young onset dementia and their caregivers
Authors: Bannon Sarah M , Reichman Mira R , Wang Katherine , Uppal Simrit , Grunberg Victoria A , Vranceanu Ana-Maria
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives

Young onset dementias (young onset dementia) produce a myriad of stressors for persons with young onset dementia and their caregivers, yet there is a critical shortage of supportive services that address their needs. To develop such services, it is necessary to first comprehensively understand persons’ with young onset dementia and their caregivers’ service preferences. Therefore, we conducted a meta-synthesis to integrate and summarize qualitative data on persons’ with young onset dementia and caregivers’ preferences for supportive services for young onset dementia, defined as support provided by medical providers, psychosocial interventions, and any other resources/services provided to promote positive adjustment in persons with young onset dementia and their caregivers.

Research Design and Methods

We searched five electronic databases for qualitative articles from inception to January 2020. We extracted and synthesized data from eligible articles using thematic analysis. After removal of duplicates, we screened 219 articles identified through database and hand searches.

Findings

Forty-three studies met our inclusion criteria. We extracted findings from these 43 studies on preferences within three a priori defined domains: 1) general characteristics of supportive services, 2) format and modality of supportive services, and 3) content for supportive services. Persons with young onset dementia and caregivers predominantly expressed common preferences, with some unique preferences based on their specific roles within the partnership.

Discussion and Implications

Persons with young onset dementia and their caregivers endorsed largely overlapping preferences, including having direct contact with providers and the ability to participate together in programs that have content and skills relevant to their specific needs and challenges. Findings can directly inform the format, content, and procedures of supportive services for persons with young onset dementia and their caregivers.
Understanding past experiences of suicidal ideation and behavior in the life narratives of transgender older adults
Authors: Gaveras Eleni M , Fabbre Vanessa D , Gillani Braveheart , Sloan Steff
Published: October 2021

Transgender people (collectively referred to here as trans) experience disproportionate rates of suicidal ideation and behavior (plans and attempts) attributed to complex constellations of structural and individual factors. Interpretive methods in suicide research elucidate and contextualize intricate patterns of risk factors and strategies for recovery. The life narratives of trans older adults offer unique insights into past suicidal behavior and recovery after distress has diminished and perspective has been gained. This study aimed to illuminate the lived experiences of suicidal ideation and behavior in the biographical interviews of 14 trans older adults as part of the project To Survive on This Shore ( N = 88). Data analysis was conducted using a two-phase narrative analysis. Trans older adults contextualized suicide attempts, plans, ideation, and recovery as navigating impossible to possible paths. Impossible paths were seen as hopelessness in their life direction, often after a significant loss. Possible paths were described as pathways to recovery from crises. Transitions from impossible to possible paths were narrated as a turning point or moment of strength combined with outreach to family, friends, or mental health professionals. Narrative approaches hold the potential to illuminate pathways to well-being among trans persons with lived experiences of suicidal ideation and behavior. For social work practitioners, therapeutic narrative work around past suicidal ideation and behavior with trans older adults holds promise for suicidal prevention by identifying important supportive resources and previously used coping skills in crises.
Problematising ‘education’ in the Modernisation Agenda for Higher Education: The onset of language(s) of education
Authors: Custers Benedikte , Magalhães António M
Published: October 2021

Starting from the assumption that ‘education’ in higher education (HE) is a floating signifier and can take on different meanings, we problematise the problem representations regarding the notion of ‘education’ in HE. We hereby focus on the analysis of problem representations in a set of Communications on the Modernisation Agenda for Higher Education by the European Commission. Drawing on Bacchi’s method What’s the Problem Represented to be, we look at two policy solutions and their related problem representations. Using Pollack’s term ‘creeping competence’, and drawing on previous research, we identify within these problem representations and policy solutions, a double creeping competence. Secondly, we problematise these problem representations and creeping competences from an educational perspective. The first problem representation is problematised as being instrumental and monofunctional. By contrast, we look at what it means to look at HE as worthy in and of itself, and as having multiple purposes at once. The second problem representation of a language of learning is problematised by suggesting the onset of language(s) of education. We conclude that further research is needed to pursue this articulation of these languages of education and hence to explore other possible articulations of education in HE.
Comparison of Angiographic Dissection Classification Systems in the Femoropopliteal Arteries Using IVUS Validation and Reliability Testing
Authors: Allan Richard Barry , Wise Nadia Clare , Wong Yew Toh , Delaney Christopher Luke
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

Objective assessment of dissection severity is difficult. Recognition of this has led to the creation of classification systems. This study investigated the performance of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and Kobayashi systems at differentiating severity of femoropopliteal dissection using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) as the reference standard. Comparison between the 2 systems and the inter- and intra-observer reliability were also investigated.

Materials and Methods:

Angiographic and IVUS imaging was assessed in 51 cases sourced from a RCT investigating the use of IVUS in femoropopliteal disease. A total of 2 readers independently scored the angiography images according to NHLBI and Kobayashi dissection classification systems and a consensus score was obtained for each system in each case. The NHLBI classification was condensed into 3 grades of dissection to allow comparison between systems. Dissection length, dissection arc, minimum lumen area, and lumen area stenosis were obtained from the IVUS imaging. IVUS parameters were compared between grades of severity for both systems. Agreement in grading between the systems was assessed and IVUS parameters for each level of dissection severity were compared between systems. Inter and intra-observer agreement tested for each system.

Results:

Dissection was present on IVUS in 92.2% (47/51) of cases and angiography identified 78.7% (37/47) of these. No difference was present in any IVUS parameters between mild and severe dissections with either classification system. No difference in IVUS findings was present for the same grades of dissection between systems. The 2 systems agreed on severity grade in 47 of 51 cases. The inter-observer agreement was for NHLBI was k=0.549 and k=0.627 for Kobayashi. Intra-observer agreement for NHLBI was k=0.633 and k=0.633 and for Kobayashi was k=0.657 and k=0.297.

Conclusion:

The lack of difference in IVUS parameters between mild and severe dissection for the NHLBI and Kobayashi systems raises doubts about their ability to effectively differentiate dissection severity. Weak to moderate reliability suggests that variability in interpreting dissection may be higher than acceptable. IVUS imaging is more sensitive for detecting dissection than angiography and research is required to establish the value of adding IVUS to dissection classification systems.
Diagnostic Key Points and Surgical Management of Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ge Xiaojing , Sun Yute , Lin Jing , Zhou Fang , Yao Gang , Luo Binlin , Su Xin
Published: October 2021

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a fatal disease with a high mortality rate that can be easily misdiagnosed. The aim of this study was to improve the diagnostic rate of NF and overall survival. We conducted a single-center, retrospective, noncontrolled study involving 36 patients who were admitted to our department between December 2017 and October 2019, and summarized the diagnostic key points and timing of surgical treatment. All patients were diagnosed at our department and underwent multiple courses of treatment. The records included information regarding underlying diseases, bacterial culture results, laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score, number of procedures, and type of antibiotics. All 36 cases of NF were cured and showed good patient condition on follow-up; the mean number of surgeries was three, and the mean duration of hospitalization was 37 days (range, 21-83 days). The LRINEC scores of 16 patients were ≥8 points. Seventeen patients with underlying diabetic disease had higher inflammatory index scores than those without diabetes. The LRINEC scores of patients with ( n = 17) and without ( n = 19) DM were 7.40 ± 2.99 and 3.80 ± 2.39, respectively ( P < .01). Cases of NF that were treated with early incision and surgical abscess drainage required fewer surgeries and a shorter length of hospitalization. Thus, surgeons should be more aware of NF and aim to make an early and accurate diagnosis using various approaches. Complete surgical debridement plays an essential role in NF treatment, and diabetes mellitus is a significant adverse factor that exacerbates the severity of NF. Negative-pressure techniques are useful in cases involving nonanaerobic infections and cause minimal complications.
The construction of a leadership identity based on empathy, care, and participation: María Eliana's history
Authors: Carrasco Andrea , Díaz María E
Published: October 2021

Recent academic research highlights the role of leadership identity when thinking about the improvement of the educational field. Based on this research, this article aims to identify and analyze the elements that affect the development of leadership identity in female school principals within the Chilean context. This is achieved by working from a biographical-narrative approach, specifically from the life history technique. This analysis emerges from a considerate reflection on the teachings, and personal and professional milestones highlighted in the biogram. Both personally and professionally, a multiplicity of elements is observed in the life history of María Eliana, influencing the development of her leadership identity, particularly highlighting her self-recognition as a woman. This identity is oriented towards social justice, based on socio-emotional tools such as care, empathy, and participation; and understands and values the role these elements must take in Chilean education. The case study presents tensions for the Chilean educational system, which must be able to address the complexities that women experience while holding leadership positions, especially when challenged with the perspective that school is an inclusive space of social justice.
Investigation into the hygrothermal behavior of fired clay materials during the freezing of supercooled water using experiments and numerical simulations
Authors: Fukui Kazuma , Iba Chiemi , Taniguchi Madoka , Takahashi Kouichi , Ogura Daisuke
Published: October 2021

In this study, supercooling effects on the hygrothermal behavior of fired clay materials under various experimental conditions, such as water content, cooling rates, and size of specimens were investigated using experimental methods and hygrothermal simulations. We report results of the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and temperature distribution changes during a freeze–thaw (FT) experiment using unsaturated specimens. Also, we developed a numerical model of the freezing and thawing processes including the supercooling processes. The DSC results show the freezing of the supercooled water in a fired clay material is considerably faster than that in cement-based materials. It was also found that the dependency of the supercooling effects on the cooling rates seemed to be small. When the water saturation of a material decreases, the rate of the ice saturation increase during the freezing of the supercooled water is decreased while the freezing points of the supercooled water was not changed considerably. The comparison of the results of the FT experiment and hygrothermal simulations show that the combination of the existed hygrothermal model and a modified kinetic equation can reproduce the rapid temperature rise during the freezing of the supercooling water in the FT experiment. Finally, the size effects of specimens on the supercooling phenomenon was discussed based on the experimental and calculation results. The freezing points got higher when a specimen was larger. Due to differences in the ratio of the surface area to the volume, hygrothermal behavior in small specimens and relatively large specimens like that of the DSC and the FT experiment, respectively were markedly different. Water in a relatively large specimen with a small ratio of surface area to volume can achieve the thermodynamic equilibrium in a short period after the freezing starts.
Multi-feature learning-based extreme learning machine for rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Zheng Longkui , Xiang Yang , Sheng Chenxing
Published: October 2021

Rolling bearing has been becoming an important part of human life and work. The working environment of rolling bearing is very complex and variable, which makes it difficult for fault diagnosis and monitor of rolling bearing from raw vibration data. Then, in this paper, a novel multi-feature learning-based extreme learning machine is proposed for rolling bearing fault diagnosis (FL-ELM). Extreme learning machine (ELM) is a fast and generalized algorithm proposed for training single-hidden-layer feed-forward networks (SLFNs), which has fast computing speed and small testing error. The novel architecture has two hidden layers and an experience pool sandwiched between two hidden layers. The first hidden layer consists of multi-feature learning methods. The experience pool is used to sort and choose new data, with old data being filtered out. Firstly, the first hidden layer is adopted for feature extraction. Secondly, the experience pool is used to rearrange and select data, which is extracted by first hidden layer. Thirdly, ELM is employed to further learn and classify. The proposed method (FL-ELM) is applied to the rolling bearing fault diagnosis. The results confirm that the proposed method is more effective than traditional methods and standard deep learning methods.
Decolonizing Flanders fields: Flemish Great War commemoration and the agency of literature
Authors: Vermeulen Pieter
Published: October 2021

This article analyzes the commemoration of the centenary of the Great War in Flanders to show how the Flemish case complicates customary accounts of the relation between human rights, the duty to remember, and World War. While customary accounts see the commemoration’s focus on victims, on minor perspectives, and on the futility of war as an extension of Holocaust memory, the article shows how in the Flemish context, the Great War functions as a “screen memory” for politically divisive memories of the Second World War, of colonialism, and of labor migration. The article analyses the contribution of Flemish literature, and especially the novel Tell Someone by Rachida Lamrabet, to the commemoration of the centenary to argue that literature is a viable tool for making visible Flanders’ “colonial aphasia,” even if the power of literature to effect mnemonic change is compromised precisely by this colonial aphasia.
Zingiber officinale: Ayurvedic Uses of the Plant and In Silico Binding Studies of Selected Phytochemicals With Mpro of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jahan Rownak , Paul Alok K. , Bondhon Tohmina A. , Hasan Anamul , Jannat Khoshnur , Mahboob Tooba , Nissapatorn Veeranoot , Pereira Maria de L. , Wiart Christophe , Wilairatana Polrat , Rahmatullah Mohammed
Published: October 2021

Among the large number of plants that are part of the Ayurvedic system of medicine in India and Bangladesh, Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), or ginger in English, holds a special place and is often referred to as “Mahaushadha” (great medicine) and “Vishvabhesaja” (worldwide or universal herb) to signify its special status. The plant and particularly its rhizomes are used both in the raw and dry form for the relief of a multitude of disorders. Since a number of these disorders occur in patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), it was of interest to perform in silico studies (molecular docking) to evaluate the binding affinities of a number of constituents of Zingiber officinale with the 3C-like protease or main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2, which plays an essential role in the cleavage of viral polyproteins and subsequent viral replication. Our studies indicated that 2 of the compounds present in ginger, namely, chlorogenic acid and hesperidin, had high binding affinities for Mpro with predicted binding energies of −7.5 and −8.3 kcal/mol. The two-dimensional and three-dimensional interactions also showed that, while chlorogenic acid interacts with one of the His41 amino acids of the catalytic dyad of Mpro, hesperidin interacts with the other amino acid Cys145, which can account for their predicted high binding energies and, therefore, possibly can inhibit Mpro activity. Taken together, our findings indicate that ginger, besides alleviating the symptoms induced by SARS-CoV-2, may also play a role in inhibiting the virus.
A Network Pharmacology Analysis of the Systems-Perspective Anticancer Mechanisms of the Herbal Drug FDY2004 for Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Ho-Sung , Lee In-Hee , Kang Kyungrae , Park Sang-In , Kwon Tae-Wook , Lee Dae-Yeon
Published: October 2021

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor with high incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates in women. In recent years, herbal drugs have been assessed as anticancer therapy against breast cancer, owing to their promising therapeutic effects and reduced toxicity. However, their pharmacological mechanisms have not been fully explored at the systemic level. Here, we conducted a network pharmacology analysis of the systems-perspective molecular mechanisms of FDY2004, an anticancer herbal formula that consists of Moutan Radicis Cortex, Persicae Semen , and Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, against breast cancer. We determined that FDY2004 may contain 28 active compounds that exert pharmacological effects by targeting 113 breast cancer-related human genes/proteins. Based on the gene ontology terms, the FDY2004 targets were involved in modulating biological processes such as cell growth, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Pathway enrichment analysis identified various breast cancer-associated pathways that may mediate the anticancer activity of FDY2004, including the PI3K-Akt, MAPK, TNF, HIF-1, focal adhesion, estrogen, ErbB, NF-kappa B, p53, and VEGF signaling pathways. Thus, our analysis offers novel insights into the anticancer properties of herbal drugs for breast cancer treatment from a systemic perspective.
Olivopontocerebellar degeneration associated with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria in a domestic shorthair cat
Authors: West Natalie , Matiasek Kaspar , Rusbridge Clare
Published: October 2021

Case summary

A rescue charity-owned 6-month-old neutered female domestic shorthair cat was presented with progressive tetraparesis, increased extensor muscle tone and signs of spinocerebellar ataxia, including hypermetria. The cat’s male sibling, with similar progressive neurological signs, had been euthanased 2 months previously. An inherited metabolic disorder was suspected. Urine for determination of organic acid concentration was obtained and the cat was prescribed carnitine and taurine supplementation. The cat was euthanased 3 months later following progressive neurological signs, including ataxia, tetraparesis, tendency to fall, bilateral absent menace response and intention tremor. A selective post-mortem examination was obtained, taking samples from the brain, cervical spinal cord, tibial branch of the sciatic nerve, muscle, liver and kidneys. Organic acid analysis results received after euthanasia revealed a marked elevation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid (45 mmol/mol creatine [normal range 0–2]) and isovalerylglycine (27 mmol/mol creatinine [normal range 0–2]). 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaric acid was deemed clinically relevant as it is a metabolite of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA lyase, the enzyme involved in the final step of leucine degradation. Post-mortem examination revealed diffuse, chronic-active, severe olivoponto-(spino)-cerebellar degeneration.

Relevance and novel information

This is the first report of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria in the veterinary literature and the first description of the neuropathology of this disorder in any species. 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaric aciduria in humans occurs rarely and is due to a deficiency in 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A lyase.
Minimally invasive spinal surgery in a young cat with vertebral hypertrophy
Authors: Sakamoto Karin , Nozue Yuta , Murakami Mami , Nakata Kohei , Nakano Yukiko , Soga Shinya , Maeda Sadatoshi , Kamishina Hiroaki
Published: October 2021

Case summary

A 2-year-old neutered female Scottish Fold cat was presented with an 8-week history of progressive back pain, paraparesis and decrease of postural reactions in both pelvic limbs. MRI showed spinal cord compression from both ventral sides, which originated from the T4 vertebral body and pedicle. The lesion compressing the spinal cord had a bone-like density on CT, and endoscopic surgery was performed to excise it. Histopathological examination of the resected tissue showed no evidence of malignancy and the lesion was diagnosed as vertebral hypertrophy. After surgery, the neurological status of the cat gradually improved. The cat was ambulant at the follow-up evaluation 2 weeks after surgery. Six months later, hindlimb paresis had improved considerably, and no recurrence was observed on CT.

Relevance and novel information

This is the first description of thoracic vertebral canal stenosis due to hypertrophy of a single vertebra in a young cat. Excision of the hypertrophic vertebra by endoscopic surgery is less invasive than open surgery and may give a good prognosis.
Spinal ectopic choroid plexus papilloma in a cat
Authors: Tabanez Joana , Beck Samuel , Driver Colin , Rusbridge Clare
Published: October 2021

Case summary

A 10-year-old male neutered Russian Blue cat was presented with a 2-month history of progressive non-ambulatory paraparesis. Spinal MRI revealed a well-demarcated, compressive intradural extramedullary mass at the level of T1 vertebra. The mass had subtle hyperintensity on T2-weighted images, was isointense on T1-weighted images and had diffuse, marked enhancement following gadolinium administration. Neuroaxis MRI, including limited brain sequences, excluded other visible lesions. Thoracic and abdominal radiographs were unremarkable. The mass was resected via a dorsal C7–T2 laminectomy and durotomy. Histopathology revealed a neoplasm composed of columnar-to-polygonal cells forming bilayered palisading patterns with a few apical cilia. Three mitoses were noted in 10 high-power fields. This was consistent with an epithelial neoplasm and initially a metastatic adenocarcinoma was considered most likely. Full-body CT with contrast and including the brain found rhinitis but did not identify any additional neoplastic foci. Biopsies of the nasal cavity and fine-needle aspiration of the spleen and liver were unremarkable. On immunohistochemical evaluation, pan-cytokeratin and E-cadherin immunolabelling was observed; however, synaptophysin, thyroglobulin, chromogranin A and glial fibrillary acidic protein was not detected. This, along with the histological morphology and absence of a primary tumour, was compatible with an ectopic choroid plexus neoplasm. Follow-up performed at 3, 14 and 24 months postoperatively revealed neurological improvement without recurrence.

Relevance and novel information

We describe the presentation, histopathological and immunohistochemical features and outcome of a case of a rare ectopic choroid plexus neoplasm in the spinal cord of a cat.
Clinical presentation, MRI, histopathology and outcome in a cat with immune-mediated masticatory myositis
Authors: Armellini Marco , Sánchez Lluís , Lorek Andrea , Shelton G Diane , De Risio Luisa
Published: October 2021

Case summary

A 4-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented with facial swelling, ocular discharge and intermittent bilateral exophthalmos. Haematology revealed mild eosinophilia. Serum biochemistry showed a markedly elevated creatine kinase activity. MRI of the head revealed diffuse and severe changes of the masticatory muscles, including irregular areas compatible with fluid or necrosis within the abnormal muscle tissue. Cytological analysis of the left temporal muscle revealed eosinophilic and macrophagic inflammation. Bacterial and fungal cultures were negative. Serological titres against Toxoplasma gondii were compatible with previous exposure. A canine ELISA against masticatory muscle type IIM fibre proteins was positive at 1:4000 (reference interval <1:100). Histopathological examination of the left temporalis muscle revealed moderately severe and multifocal myositis. A diagnosis of immune-mediated masticatory myositis was made and immunosuppressive therapy was started. The cat initially responded to tapering doses of prednisolone, but subsequent relapses required therapy modulation. At the time of writing, 27 months after the initial diagnosis, the cat was in remission, but was diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, probably secondary to chronic glucocorticoid use.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe the MRI appearance of masticatory myositis in a cat and the second to describe the clinical presentation, histopathology, response to treatment and outcome in a cat with this condition.
Changes in Depressive Symptoms, Physical Symptoms, and Sleep-Wake Problems From Before to During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Emerging Adults: Inequalities by Gender, Socioeconomic Position, and Race
Authors: Fuller-Rowell Thomas E. , Nichols Olivia I. , Doan Stacey N. , Adler-Baeder Francesca , El-Sheikh Mona
Published: October 2021

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on emerging adults is of global concern. We examine changes in depressive symptoms, physical symptoms, and sleep-wake problems from before to during the pandemic among college students and examine inequalities by gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and race ( N = 263, 52% Black, 48% White, and 53% female). As compared to pre-pandemic levels, increases were evident in depressive symptoms, physical symptoms, and sleep problems. Females had greater increases than males in depressive symptoms, sleep problems, and physical symptoms. Students from disadvantaged SES backgrounds had greater increases in physical symptoms. Among White students, those from disadvantaged backgrounds also had greater increases in sleep problems. Last, daytime sleepiness increased more among Black male than White male students. Overall, findings suggest notable shifts in sleep and health during the early phase of the pandemic among emerging adults, and that attention to inequality by gender, SES, and race is warranted.
Predicting Service Recovery Performance through Job Crafting Perception and Behaviour: Does Proactivity Make a Difference?
Authors: Zahoor Adil
Published: October 2021

The central aim of this study is to investigate whether the proactive personality (PP) of frontline service employees moderates the impact of perceived opportunity to craft (POC) on actual job crafting (JC) behaviour. We also examine the consequent effect of JC on employee work engagement (WE) and perceived service recovery performance (SRP). Primary data collected from 624 dyads of Indian frontline banking employees and their immediate colleagues (peers) formed the basis of empirical analysis. Data on JC perception, WE and JC behaviour was self-reported by the employees. On the other hand, peer-rating was invited for frontline employees’ PP and recovery performance. Empirical results indicated that the likelihood of POC resulting in actual JC is significantly higher for proactive employees in comparison to their reactive counterparts. The results also suggest that JC nurtures WE which, in turn, enhances SRP.